Love Notes (2007) - full transcript
Follows the relationship between a classical music critic and a country music star after a one night stand, which results in an unplanned pregnancy.
[music]
Nora : And you've just
been listening to Tchaikovsky's
Serenade for Strings.
And if you love Tchaikovsky
as much as I do, please join me
tonight as I talk about this
most romantic of composers
in the opening lecture
of this symphony season.
Looking forward
to seeing you there.
This has been Preludes
with Nora Flannery on WKRA.
[switch clicks off]
Reggie : You're off.
Nora : And I'm out of here.
All right, sweetie.
Be good then.
All right, see you tomorrow.
Hello?
No, no.
I'm just doing the
pre concert talk.
I think I can make it.
By 8:30?
No problem.
What?
No, I'm excited.
It's a good angle...
classical music critic
goes to a country concert.
It'll be fun.
And if it gets you
to hire me
for more reviews, great!
Well, that's almost a yes.
Okay, thanks for thinking
of me.
Bye.
So Nadezhda von Meck spills her
guts to him in long letters,
no doubt nurtures untold
numbers of fantasies about him,
and supports Tchaikovsky by
sending him 6000 rubles a year,
and yet she insists on having
no social interaction
with him at all.
Why?
[click]
Well, maybe it wasn't
such a bad idea after all.
Nadezhda was his benefactress
but she was also
a tireless listener
with whom Tchaikovsky shared
more of himself than anyone.
[click]
[footsteps]
[piano music]
Tchaikovsky himself
conducted the Pathétique
on October 28, 1893,
in St. Petersburg.
Three days later...
[piano music]
some say from cholera...
[piano music]
others say it was suicide...
he was dead.
[piano music]
[music]
The Pathétique may
be the most melancholy
of all the great symphonies.
And I believe for Tchaikovsky
it captured the sadness of what
would never be for him -
a full and honest love.
[music]
So tonight I hope you'll enjoy
Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky's
Symphony No. 6, the Pathétique.
[applause]
[classical music]
[rocking country and western]
[sings] "Been so long
out on the road
Put so many miles
on this old Prevost
You're the best thing
I've seen in some time
Sweet champagne
after months of cheap wine
It's been so nice knowin' ya...
It's been so nice knowin' ya.
You know it hurts to say goodbye
But I got a bottle of Jack
and my D45
Singing Hank Williams songs
as we roll down the road
I'm gonna miss you baby
But I got to go
It's been so nice
knowin' ya..."
Come on!
[music]
I love you, Jamie!
[music]
We love you, Jamie!
Hang on for a second, guys.
I'm really sorry about that.
I've just got to talk
to these girls right here.
Now, what did
I hear you say, ladies?
Oh, come on, don't be shy.
Did I hear you say you love me?
We love you.
How do you know
I'm the one for you?
It doesn't matter!
We love you!
Come on, ladies, it does matter.
[music]
[sings] "Don't give
your love away-hey."
[excited screaming audience]
"Just listen to your heart"
[excited screaming...]
"Find a love
that's gonna stay-hey.
Don't give your love away-ay.
Some folks say that love
is like a river
The way it flows..."
[music fades...]
Manager : Come on, boys.
Catch some flash bulbs.
[excited crowd noise]
[camera shutters click]
Nora : Mr. Derringer!
Jamie : Mister Derringer?
Nora : Mr. Derringer,
I loved Lonely Star.
Did you borrow the structure
from Bach's Chacome
by any chance?
No.
[excited crowd voices]
Jamie : She's all right
to come in, just her.
Hey, you, from the Herald,
Mr. Derringer would like you
to join us.
He said to let you,
and only you, in.
Come on.
Crowd voices : What about us?
Hey man, thanks for nothing!
Manager : Close it up.
[background C & W music]
[background C & W music]
Bach, huh?
Yeah.
There's a theory.
Gets them every time.
Look, I was hoping I could
ask you some questions.
Manager : Hey,
it's a done deal!
The Japan tour is definitely on.
All right!
Sushi!
Oh, and a lot of it, huh?
Hey, look,
I'll catch you later, man.
I'm going to go upstairs and
talk to the merchandizing folks
about new receipts.
See how we did tonight.
All right.
Good show, huh?
Good show!
Ow-ow-ow-eeee...
Everyone : Whoooooo....!
You know it, man!
Yeah, love it, love it.
That was interesting.
Yeah, Moon Shout Hal.
Just be thankful
it was a short one.
Say, you're not like the usual
guy that's hangin' around.
Did he get fired?
No, it's a cross-cultural
sort of thing.
I cover this, the pop critic
covers Shostakovich.
Yeah, I get it...
a gimmick.
No, I wouldn't say
it's a gimmick exactly.
I don't read music,
incidentally, so there's
no way I could have borrowed
from that piece
you were talking about.
Of course not.
What I meant was that it
was a springboard, a creative
inspiration or something.
Look, I'm not sure
I introduced myself.
I'm Nora Flannery,
I'm from the Herald.
I would really like
to interview you.
Nora?
Flannery.
Nora Flannery.
Have you got a car?
[background music]
I'm just so sick of limos and
busses and planes and drivers.
It sounds like you've got
a lot more of that coming up.
Asia.
You know how big Asia is?
It's very big.
I'm never going to see the
inside of my house again.
[beep, beep car lock]
That's your car?
Shoot, I didn't think
you'd have a decent ride.
I have to drive.
It's my vice.
I've got to admit, I like speed.
Just being able to get
in your own car
and drive wherever the hell
you want without thousands
of people following you...
You have no idea.
Can you walk a straight line?
What are you, a cop?
If you can prove to me
you're not drunk, you can drive.
Lady, believe me, you will
know when I'm drunk.
[slow measured footsteps]
I could do that
on the back of a bull.
[jingle of keys]
Rodeo?
Yes, ma'am.
[footsteps]
Wait, hang on a sec.
No, no, no, no.
Oh, no, come on.
Don't be silly.
Mm... scent of suede,
it takes me back.
Oh, yeah?
To what?
Your high school boyfriend?
Yeah, I've heard it before.
What can I say?
I guess I'm just
a walking cliché.
Trust me, it's not a bad thing.
That boy was cute.
[music]
[music]
[music]
Jamie : Hotel bar's going
to be okay with you?
It's the quietest place in town.
Nora : It's fine.
How's that?
Okay.
Oh, I got that for you.
Thank you.
Jamie : Howdy.
What are you having?
Oh, white wine,
Pinot Grisio please.
I'll have a double JD
straight up, thanks.
So, I guess we should start.
Do you mind if I record this?
Wow! I can't believe
you're sitting right here!
You were awesome tonight!
Thank you, I appreciate it.
You all have a good night now.
Hey, do me a favour.
Sign my baby's t-shirt
for me, will you?
Sign it, or skin,
anywhere, just go ahead.
I'm really sorry, but
I'm off duty for the night.
Oh, no way.
Oh come on, don't be like that.
We paid a lot of money
to see you.
I hope you had a good time.
Have a good night.
Look, you're sitting here
doing exactly nothing, man.
Now don't be a jerk.
Sign the shirt.
Maybe after we do the
interview or something.
What?
No time for your fans?
You know what?
You suck big time anyways.
The only reason I went is
'cause my cousin gave me
the tickets, hot shot.
[crash, rattle of glasses]
Leave... me... alone.
[background music]
Congratulations,
I guess you got your story.
[music]
Guy : Did you see that?
Someone should call the cops!
Girl : Did he hurt you?
Did he?
Guy : You're lucky
I don't sue you.
Girl : It's okay.
Come on.
[music]
[elevator ding!]
[doors slide open]
[distant Hank Williams music]
[doors slide closed]
[knock, knock]
[door squeaks open]
[Hank Williams music]
Hello.
Jamie?
[Hank Williams music]
[Hank Williams music]
Hey.
Sorry.
I just...
I just realized
I still had your jacket.
[Hank Williams music]
Oh, thanks.
[music]
Listen...
I'm not going to write about
what happened at the bar.
You're not?
No, I'm not.
I'm interested in your music.
Yeah?
And I'm interested in you.
For an interview, I mean.
Um...
What happened back there,
that wasn't fair.
I still feel bad.
Well, hey, come on in.
Get on in here.
You want an interview,
I want to give you an interview.
Have a seat.
Let me get some clothes,
all right?
Sit.
Sit down.
[music]
What'll you have?
Nothing.
I'm fine.
Oh, come on.
You got to have something.
I mean I got everything.
A professional perk
you might say.
I'm good.
Oh, you got to try this.
I mean, this is a nice one.
It's a red and it's real dry.
Stylish, like you.
Thank you.
Cheers.
[glasses clink]
Ahhh...
Well, sit down.
Hm.
You know wine.
Well, you could at least
try to keep the surprise
out of your voice.
Sorry.
So I guess we should start
by talking about your
first set tonight.
It was, um...
What?
Um...
My tape recorder,
I left it in the bar.
I'll go get it.
That place will
be closed by now.
I'll take notes then.
Whatever blows up your skirt.
Is this the way you
show me you're not a jerk?
I'm sorry.
It just happens sometimes
when I open my mouth.
Hm!
Okay, well, here we go.
Classical music critic
meets a Country bad ass.
First question.
So you don't know music theory,
you don't read a note,
and yet you've written
some of the most popular
country music songs
in the past few years.
How do you do it?
Well...
I taught myself guitar.
I'd sit in my room for
hours on end playing chords.
I listened to a lot of music...
Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash.
You know, the real
old story-tellers.
Turns out I could just hear it
once, and play it right back.
That's a real gift.
Yeah, or a real curse.
Why?
Do you think things have
to be hard to be worthwhile?
Well, what's hard
is everything else
besides playing guitar.
You get into this business
to avoid responsibility.
Pretty soon it's like every
second of every day
is scheduled.
The music is just
an excuse for the business
when it's supposed to be
the other way around.
Hey, what am I whining about?
Whenever I want
I can pick up a guitar
and play this.
[classical guitar music]
[classical guitar music]
The Chacome.
You do know it.
Yeah, well I heard it once.
Here, you play a song.
No, I should go.
It's getting late.
No, I played for you,
you gotta play for me.
Gotta play our roles.
I don't play the guitar.
You have no choice.
[laughter]
Okay.
Okay...
[hums and strums gently]
[hums and strums gently]
[hums and strums gently]
[hums and strums gently]
That was real pretty.
That was real nice.
Yeah... a couple of lessons
in fifth grade.
Yeah?
You know you got
the G7 a little wrong.
Oh.
That's all right.
I'll show you.
You ready?
Yeah, okay.
Lesson One.
All right.
Got to get your posture right.
Which is it?
This one?
Yeah, you want
to get your index finger
over the fret like that.
Try that.
Okay.
[discordant strum]
What's going on with
your finger right there?
I don't know.
You got to relax it.
Okay. Okay.
Just relax.
[strum]
You got to relax
your forearm, too.
Tuck your shoulder
a little forward.
Give you a little more length.
Like that?
[guitar strum]
You don't know what relax is.
You're not relaxing.
[music]
[music]
[music]
I'm not sure this
is at all professional.
Yeah.
[music]
Yeah.
[music]
What does that mean anyway?
Professional?
[music]
[music]
[door bangs open]
Good morning, love birds!
Hey, Jamie, come on, let's go,
Let's go buddy, get them up.
The bus leaves in ten minutes.
Hey! Hey! Up!
Are you there?
What is going on?
Oh, there's my boy.
Come on, come on.
I'm sorry, darling.
He's a notoriously hard sleeper.
It's the only way we can
get his ass on the bus.
Oh, it's you.
Well, I am sorry.
All the ladies hate it.
But truth is, we got a gig
in Baltimore tonight
and we got to go.
Let's go, man, come on.
You all right?
Yeah.
Okay, let's go.
I got to go.
I had a lovely time.
We're late.
Come on.
"It's been so nice knowing you."
Wha-hoo.
[slam!]
Ahhh...!
[laughs]
Nora : This is WKRA 97.1 FM
where classical music lives.
I'm Nora Flannery, your host
for Preludes coming to you each
day from 6:00 to 11:00 a.m.
on your morning drive.
Okay?
Come on, I could have charged
admission for that one.
I could have charged admission.
I loved it, and, might I add,
you are punishing
that dress young lady.
You've really, uh...
You're really filling out.
You must have been one major
pain in the ass in junior high.
Maybe just a little.
So, Sylvie from the
Paris Quartet called back.
She was looking for
a phone number for Carl, uh...
What's his last name?
Tillmans.
Tillmans?
And she said he's in Milan
with the opera.
See if someone can track
him down because he was
supposed to send me his
Schoenberg recordings for my
lecture on atonal structure.
Yeah, remind me
to study up for that one.
And I'm going to need
it soon, so I can put my...
God, is it hot in here?
Kinda, let's get some air.
Come on, I'll spring
for the iced lattes.
You know you are looking
good in that dress.
Is it the bra?
Padded?
Enough about my boobs
already, what is the deal?
Reggie : Oh, Nora, Nora,
your secret's safe with me,
I'm not going to tell anybody
about that padded bra.
I won't tell a soul.
Rude, rude man.
So how are you feeling
after this last invitro?
Oh, you'd think out of five
one would've took, just one.
But no...
no such luck.
Sorry.
Are you going to try again?
I want a baby.
That's all I think about.
Baby, baby, baby.
I know.
I don't think about my
career the way you do anymore.
I want to be a mom.
I want to be a family.
You will be.
Yeah.
Alrighty, I will have
a double espresso, please,
and my friend will have...
Ugh, that smell.
What? Coffee beans?
Last week you said you
wanted to bottle it
and wear it as perfume.
I think I'm going to be sick.
Oh, oh.
Hang on a sec.
[swoosh of running water]
Are you feeling better?
Yeah.
I must've eaten something bad.
I feel terrible.
Oh, you know,
if I didn't know better...
No, no, no, it can't be.
What?
Well, I just, uh...
Have you ever thought
about a pregnancy test?
No.
I'm just saying...
the sensitivity to smell,
the nausea,
plus the bigger the better.
Oh my god.
Oh my god, my period.
I'm a few days late,
but I didn't think that...
Holy Hanna.
How much longer?
Thirty more seconds.
[phone rings]
Oh, it's just Jeff.
You should go.
Are you kidding?
You'd have to kidnap me
to get me out of here.
You'd have to send
in swat teams.
You'd have to beam me
out of here, okay?
Besides Jeff is
chronically early.
It's a thing they teach
in law school.
Nine, eight, seven, uh, uh, uh.
Did I ever tell you
how controlling you were?
How long have you known me?
Three, two, one.
[music]
Ohhh...
[music]
Positive.
Oh, my, oh, my.
I'm sorry, so sorry.
It just came out.
I didn't expect it to happen.
[gasping]
I'm pregnant.
Yeah.
I'm sorry.
I don't mean to be so selfish.
It just came over me.
It's just weird.
Okay, I'm so sorry, Nora, I am.
That's all right.
Okay...
So, are you going to tell Rene?
Rene?
No, no... That's been over
for almost a year.
Wow, the things best friends
keep to themselves these days.
I'm not obligated to tell
you everything that happens
in my life.
Yes, yes you are.
Now's your chance
to make it up to me.
Remember when I went
to see that country group,
the Moonshine Dogs?
Um-hum.
And I interviewed
Jamie Derringer?
"Country music bad ass,"
you said in the article.
Okay, yeah, okay, you
interviewed Jamie Derringer...
Oh my god!
You slept with Jamie Derringer!
You slept with Jamie Derringer?
22 year old Jamie Derringer?
Oh, you slept with
Jamie Derringer! Oh!
He's like on the cover of every
gossip magazine everywhere!
Oh, you slept with him and you
didn't tell me about it?
Oh, that is so...
that is so...
I know.
I'm a horrible person.
That is so cool.
It is?
Oh, yes.
Yes, it is.
Oh, and you know what else?
You are going to love
being a Mom.
A single Mom you mean.
No way.
No, no, no, no.
Don't just dismiss it.
No, you can handle this.
You're very organized.
It's like a sickness with you.
I mean a gift.
Oh, come on, look at this place.
No, I was raised
by a single mother.
I saw what that was like.
I swore that would never be me.
Oh, the irony, huh?
I go through hell to try and
get pregnant and here you are,
one pop - boom.
I know, I know.
I'm so sorry, Claire.
No, no, no, no, not your fault.
No, I just can't think about it
otherwise it'll make me crazy.
I mean craizier.
So, uh...
[phone rings]
Will you stop calling.
I'm on my way.
Will you be okay?
I'm fine.
You sure?
I'm sure.
Absolutely sure?
Because I don't mind telling
Jeff to stuff his client dinner.
No, I'm pregnant,
I'm not terminal.
You should go.
Okay, but I want you
to call me later.
I want to know how you're
doing, okay?
Okay, I will.
Oh, Jamie Derringer!
You're totally my hero
now, you know, and I want
the details very soon.
See you.
[music]
[music]
Holy Hanna.
Don't you see, I've been
thinking about this for hours.
It's perfect.
It's the perfect solution.
Don't joke.
Don't do that to me, Nora.
I'm not jokiung.
I want you and Jeff
to have this baby.
Really.
I have thought of everything.
I don't mind carrying
the baby for you.
In fact I would love
to do that for you.
To make a baby for you, I would.
I don't know what to say.
Claire, you have always
wanted to be a family.
This is your chance.
It would be confusing for you.
No, it won't.
It would be confusing
for the kid.
No, not if it won't
be confusing for me.
Come on, Claire.
You could finally be a family.
We could be a family.
We could be a family, Jeff.
What are you thinking?
What about this
Jamie Derringer guy?
What if this big star decides
that he wants his baby back
after all?
Nora : Believe me, there is
absolutely no chance
of that happening.
I don't know.
Oh, please, honey,
think about it.
I mean, no more hormone shots.
We wouldn't have to take
the little bottles
to the doctor's office.
No more disappointments.
And then we'd have a baby
that we know would be smart.
And cute.
And beautiful and smart.
Jeff : Okay.
But I'd have to insist
on a paternity release.
We couldn't take
the chance without it.
But...
if it's what you want.
It is, it is.
And you are absolutely
positively sure about this?
Yes, are you?
Yes, yes!
Oh, it's great and
I won't have to give birth.
You will.
[music]
This Maler is amazing.
[music]
You're a little loud.
Sorry.
[click]
You know, I feel fabulous today.
Those books are so right.
20 weeks in, I feel great.
Great.
Except you know what?
Can we get these
stork vitamins out of here.
Uh... hello?
Everybody knows.
I know, it's just
the whole hippo thing
I'm not quite ready for.
Well, at least they
have nice clothes now.
Yeah, wanna to go shopping?
Yeah.
Another one of these came back.
Oh, Jamie Derringer?
I've contacted his record
label, his management company.
I spoke to his agent who said
he's in China on his way
to Japan and then Southeast
Asia and god only knows
where after that.
I've tried everything.
You know I don't care
about his signature.
It's your baby.
I know.
Jeff doesn't exactly
see things that way.
Oh, Jeff's a lawyer.
Besides, with the hours
he's putting in these days,
it's impossible for him to act
like a normal human being.
Now, let's go shopping.
Some for me, some for you.
[music]
Latte.
Here you go, non-alcoholic.
Where's Claire,
the guest of honour?
I don't know.
I've been calling her.
She's not answering her phone.
Well, I applaud you,
both of you.
It really is something.
Here's to the unconventional.
[glasses clink]
[background music]
Oh, there she is.
Hi.
Hey.
[sobs]
[music]
[sniffles]
It's Jeff.
He's in love with somebody else.
His paralegal, um...
and he's leaving me.
Oh, honey.
[music]
He wants a divorce, Nora.
Oh, god.
It's going to be all right.
It's not going to happen.
We're not going to be a family.
[music]
[music]
[door opens]
[music]
Oh no, please.
Don't get up.
Thank you for
seeing me so quickly.
Not a problem.
I think I explained to you
my situation on the phone.
I need to move very fast.
Well, you've come
to the right place.
Adoptions 'R Us.
So, tell me,
what are you looking for
in the adoptive parents?
Just a good family.
People who will love this baby.
You're making my job easy.
If you sign a few papers
today and get me
the paternity release as soon
as possible, I can start
setting up some interviews.
Paternity release.
[sigh]
Have we hit our snag?
Is it possible to do this
without a release?
Not if you want to avoid
further legal difficulties
down the road.
Do you know who the father is?
Yes, of course.
Look there's no judgment here.
It was a brief involvement.
He's a celebrity, sort of.
Well, all the more reason to
ensure there's no complications.
I guess I'll try
calling him again.
Listen, Nora, after doing
this for more than 20 years,
I know you have to see him
in person.
There's no other way.
Well...
I hear he's going
to be in Atlanta.
Maybe I'll take the train
since I can't fly anymore.
What if I connected you
with some couples in that area?
Works out quite well, actually.
I prefer there be at least three
states between the biological
mother and the adoptive family.
[sigh]
I feel like there's about
three states between me
and the rest of the world.
Reggie : All right.
[traffic]
I got you.
Nora : I'm good.
I got it.
All right, so the car rental
office is right by the station.
The hotel reservation's
been confirmed.
And don't forget your package.
Oh yeah, I need that.
That's the information
from my lawyer
about the prospective parents
I'll be meeting.
Hopefully this will help
me narrow down my choices.
You still trying
to get ahold of Claire?
Yeah, she's not
answering her phone.
She's holed up
at her parents' house.
I just wish she'd call me.
Well, I'll try to get
hold of her, too.
Look, and don't worry.
I know you're going to find
what you're looking for, okay?
I know you will.
Thank you.
All right, sweetie.
Are you good with all this?
I'm good.
Okay.
Don't hook up with
anybody on the way.
Sh!
You shut up.
See you later.
[music]
[music]
[excited crowd cheers]
Nora : Jamie!
Jamie!
[music]
Jamie.
It's Nora.
Nora Flannery.
I just need you to
sign this release.
I don't know who you are.
Come on, let's go, man!
There's a party waiting!
Look out!
Come on, Atlanta!
Wahoo!
Look what I got for you.
[music]
Not tonight, sweetheart.
[music]
[phone rings]
Hi, Claire?
No, it's me, Areva.
Oh, hi!
Did you get that signature?
No.
I'll get it tomorrow.
Your first interview
is with the Millers
tomorrow in Chattanooga.
He's a police officer,
she's a homemaker,
very stable, good prospects.
What about the family
in Knoxville,
they were my favourites.
We'll talk about them when
you get those papers signed.
I'll get it.
I will.
I hope so.
It's crucial.
Have a good evening.
Okay, good night.
[music]
[music]
[music]
[phone rings...]
[music]
Claire, it's me again.
Look, I know you don't want
to talk to anyone right now,
but I really wish you'd
call me just to let me know
how you're doing.
I just think we've gotta...
You know what?
I'm sorry, I gotta go.
Claire, call me, please.
Call me.
Jamie!
Jamie!
[music]
Jamie!
[car squeals away]
[music]
[music]
[music]
[music]
[music]
Jamie!
Jamie!
[music]
[music]
[music]
Damn.
[music]
[brakes screech!]
[slam!]
Are you happy now?
What are you?
Some kind of stalker?
All I want
is your damn signature.
Why would I sign
anything of yours?
In case you haven't
bothered to notice,
I'm pregnant and it's yours.
I told you, I don't know you.
Oooohhhh!
[slam!]
[footsteps]
[slam!]
What are you doing?
What are you doing?
What are you doing?
[car starts]
What are you doing?
I have an appointment in
three hours with a family
that wants to adopt this baby.
Here, have one of your boys
call for another rental.
You've got to be kidding!
What, so now you're a stalker
and a car thief?
I'll call your manager
when I get to Chattanooga.
You can pick your car up there.
Listen! Listen!
Stop! Stop the car!
I'm going to Chattanooga!
Wait!
Stop!
Let me in!
[music]
All right!
Just drop me off
at my girlfriend,
Lily Jane's place.
She'd never steal my car.
[opera music]
[C & W music]
Hey, I was listening to that.
[opera]
Dead man's dirge.
[C & W]
It's Madame Butterfly.
[opera]
My point exactly.
[C & W]
Please.
My man left me again.
Bunch of whiners.
[click]
[music]
You know, I don't get
your whole attitude.
Attitude?
What are you talking
about attitude?
It seems that all you want
from a woman is that
she's ready and willing.
She'll do your laundry maybe.
Let you sleep off your drunks,
am I right?
Are you talking about Lily Jane?
She likes my company is all.
She likes that you
treat her like a maid?
You know I bet you didn't even
have the decency to call her
and ask her if she even
wants to see you.
Yeah, I bet she really
likes that.
We don't have that
kind of relationship.
Well, that's no kind of
relationship if you ask me.
[music]
So why don't you just keep it?
I just want to find the baby
a good family that's all.
All right.
By good I suppose
you mean rich, big house,
fancy college, that whole deal?
I just mean good.
[music]
So why didn't you just,
you know, get it taken care of?
You know, I don't have
to justify my decisions
to you or anybody else.
All right, all right.
Why don't you pull over.
I'll drive.
You look tired.
You shouldn't be driving
anyway.
You're pregnant.
[music]
Ohh... my back.
Oh, yoo-hoo!
You-hoo!
You found the place, okay?
Oh, you must be Nora.
You're so beautiful!
Your picture doesn't
do you justice.
I'm surprised you
recognize me at all.
Oh, nonsense.
And you are?
Oh, this is, uh... Joey.
He's a friend.
Of the father?
Yes.
No.
No.
Yeah.
Uh... I'm a friend of Nora's
but I don't know the father.
Oh... What kind of man
wouldn't just die
to be this baby's daddy?
A fool, I'd say.
Nora : I'm so happy
to meet you both.
[music]
Hey, Joey, did anyone ever
tell you that you look
a heck of a lot like that guy
on the Moonshine Dogs?
Yeah, he gets that all
the time, don't you, Joey?
Nothing wrong with that.
He's a good looking fella.
[music]
Nora : Thank you so much,
This has been so lovely.
You are just wonderful.
Oh, bye.
Oh, bye.
Glad to meet you.
Take care of our little girl.
Bye, now.
Safe driving.
Bye.
All that corn
and back pattin'.
What the hell was that?
If it was something else
I'd tell you, Nora.
I had to say something.
It just came out.
Thank you.
[music]
He said there's a rental
car on the other side of town.
You can just drop me off there.
Can I use your phone now?
I really have to call LJ.
No, you know the deal.
You're acting like a little kid.
Yeah, well, I guess we
pregnant ladies are hell
to deal with.
[music]
[music]
Did you like them?
They were very nice.
Yeah?
I don't see you giving
the baby up to 'em.
It isn't really
your business is it?
[car slides on gravel]
I guess not, but I just
did sit through two hours
of stale biscuits
and hundred year old jokes.
I mean I think I have...
Nobody asked you to come,
Jamie.
No?
I did.
I'm just saying that I don't
think that those people
are the right people
for this baby, that's all.
I mean, there was
something about them.
It's just like they weren't
artistic enough, you know,
don't you think?
What do you care,
one way or the other?
Right.
I don't care.
I don't care what...
You can do whatever you want.
I don't care.
I have to pee.
Again?
I have to pee.
I know, you just went
before we left.
You ever had 20 pounds
sitting on your bladder?
It's not comfortable.
I really have to pee.
Okay.
Okay, relax.
There's a sign for a diner.
Now?
I have to go to the bathroom.
You can call your girlfriend.
[music]
Jamie : Hello?
Who's this?
Derek who?
Oh, well I guess
congratulations are in order.
I just rang her, uh...
No, no, I didn't.
I'm... I'm an old friend
of hers, Jamie.
Uh... yeah.
Yeah, I'll wait.
Hey, baby, how are you?
Yeah, I heard.
You just got married.
I suddenly realized
I'm just famished.
Waitress : Maybe she's got
triplets in there.
Starve a fever, but Lord
help those who don't feed
a pregnant woman.
You think she'll
save any for me?
Looks like you could
use another cup of coffee.
Lady, you're a mind reader.
[music]
Thank you.
You're welcome.
So how far along are you?
How long has it been since
your concert in Philly?
[music]
Anyway, it's late, it's way
too late to be doing this,
but what choice did I have?
I'm going to pass
on the Millers.
I really liked the letter
they wrote, but in person,
I don't know.
All those smiley faces.
It's almost like they were
hiding something.
Exactly.
I got three more
families that I like.
Of them is my favourite.
Would you like to see them?
Sure.
[rustle of papers]
Wow, they all took so much care.
Yeah, they just put
their heart in there.
It's touching.
[music]
Look at this one.
[music]
Mayzelles.
They're Jewish.
Yes, they are.
Well, that's cool.
My grandfather's Jewish.
Really?
Yeah.
[music]
This kid's going to be musical,
there's no doubt about it.
Do you know whether
it's a boy or a girl?
What do you care?
Waitress : Can I get you
folks something else?
Uh...
No, just the check, thanks.
Well, that'll be $37.85.
Oh, I'll, uh...
get you some change.
Just keep it.
Why, thank you.
Well, I guess the next order
of business is to find a motel,
and a rental car in the morning.
Something big so I can
squeeze behind the wheel.
Yeah.
Thank you.
You all right?
Yeah.
I don't understand why
they won't meet with me
in the meantime.
I mean I'll drive down
to Knoxville if that's
what they want, Areva.
This is a legal issue.
There are plenty of couples
who would be happy to meet
you without the paternity
release, but the Mayzelles
are not one of them.
Okay.
Well, I'm headed
to Kentucky, now.
I'll call you tonight.
Thanks.
Bye.
Bye.
Rental girl : Okay, will
you be taking the insurance?
[music]
I need you to not
have any cars available.
Excuse me?
I need you to tell him
that you don't have any cars
for me to rent.
But we've got the Fords
and the GM.
Yes, I know that you have
them, but I want you
to pretend that you don't.
I don't understand.
Okay, see him?
That's Jamie Derringer.
No way.
And this is his baby.
No way!
And I need him to sign
a paternity document.
And if he puts me in a car
and sends me away right now,
I'm in big trouble.
Don't you worry
about a thing, ma'am.
[door clatters open]
They've got this big old
Pontiac with a huge front seat.
Should be perfect for you.
I'm so sorry but all of our
cars have just been reserved.
What?
What are you talking about?
I just got an email
from headquarters.
The farm equipment convention
starts on Friday.
And as of this moment
all of our vehicles have just
been taken out of inventory.
Pardon me, miss, I'm sorry,
it doesn't make no sense.
I just picked it out.
The kid's washing it right now.
I'm so sorry, sir.
Must be some sort of glitch
in the computer system.
I have an appointment
in Kentucky in four hours.
How am I supposed to get there?
Can I talk to your
national office?
Because you know a thing like
this would never happen
in Philadelphia.
Nora, Nora!
I'm really sorry, miss.
What are you doing?
How am I going to get there?
Who's going to drive me?
Come here, would you?
Look...
I'll drive you.
What about Lily Jane?
Forget Lily Jane, okay?
You shouldn't be driving
in this condition anyway.
Kentucky is...
It's where I'm from.
I've got family and friends
down there so it shouldn't
be a problem, okay?
Really?
That would be nice.
You're from Kentucky?
Yeah! I'm from...
Nora, do me a favour, okay?
Just don't get so upset.
It's not good for the baby.
All right, you're right.
Let's go.
Thank you.
Yeah.
[music]
[music]
[music]
Do you want the radio on?
I don't know if we're gonna find
classical music out here,
but maybe we can find something.
It's all right.
I'm fine.
I got this tune
stuck in my head.
My grandfather used
to sing it to me.
Want to try to guess what it is?
Okay.
[hums a tune]
It's nice.
You should record it.
Yeah, well... you know,
Shostakovich, but...
No, it's not.
It's Rachmaninoff's.
No, it isn't.
It's Teddy Mossman
and Buddy Cate, but nice try.
Yeah, but Ted Mossman
borrowed it from Rachmaninoff.
There's a lot of
borrowing going on.
A Whiter Shade of Pale?
Yeah?
Bach's Orchestral Suite
No. 3.
Paul Simon's American Tune?
Tchaikovsky's
Serenade for Strings.
I could go on and on.
You got a PhD in this stuff
or something?
Or something.
I did my thesis on classical
music in contemporary culture
so it's kind of up my alley.
What?
What?
I was just kidding.
I didn't really think
you had a PhD in it.
That's funny.
The thing that I don't get
is why do all the country songs
have to be about drinking
and jail,
betrayal and whoring around.
That was their reality, Nora.
That's what they knew
so they sang about it.
[music]
Nora : Okay, thank you.
Bye.
So they'll hold the car
at the rental place until five.
And then I'll be
out of your hair.
So, in the meantime, I will just
leave these here
in case you want to go over
the fine print.
Well, take your time.
I'm going to have me
a good snooze.
Unless you want
to come in with me.
No.
I'll sit right here.
Just because you ask good
questions and, um...
I'm a little worried that
I'm not at my most perceptive.
All right, I'll come in.
I just don't want
to get introduced.
As what, the father?
Guess what, Jamie?
You are the father.
Hey!
Look, Nora, I just don't
know what you want from me.
[whap!]
You know, there are a lot
of women who would throw
themselves...
Nora : Okay.
Okay, I'm sorry, Nora.
[slam]
[whack!]
[burble of water fountain]
Nora : It was nice meeting you.
Goodbye.
Thank you.
Bye.
[footsteps]
[music]
Get in an accident?
She's handicapped.
[music]
That's too bad.
She's a lovely woman.
She's very smart.
They have a lot of help.
He's a CEO.
They'd be excellent candidates.
Good.
Don't give me that attitude.
You know, the fact is
I'm in no position to be picky
without a paternity release.
Just drive me to the
car rental place.
You can...
[inhales deeply]
Oh, no...
Nora, what's going on?
I don't know.
It feels like, um...
maybe it's a contraction.
What?
I don't know.
Oh, man.
Is there a hospital around here?
You're kidding!
Tell me you're kidding, Nora!
There isn't a hospital
for a hundred miles!
Oh, man.
Hang on.
I know where to take you.
[music]
[music]
Nora : You're taking me
to a horse barn?
What the hell, Jamie!
Oh, god!
Oh, there's another one!
[music]
[music]
Wait here.
Steve! Steve!
You got to get out here
right away
My friend's in trouble.
Jamie, hi.
What's happening?
Yeah, she's having a baby
She's at 36 weeks.
36 weeks?
I knew I couldn't get her
all the way to county hospital
so I came here instead.
Okay.
Nora, this is Steve.
Hi.
Are you a doctor?
He's a vet.
A vet?
Jamie, I don't need a vet.
I'm also the father of two
who delivered them both.
Not to mention the almost
500 foals I brought
into this world.
May I?
Sure.
There's no distress.
Your baby sounds good.
Jamie tells me
you're at 36 weeks?
Yeah.
Yeah?
Have they lessened
since they started?
A little, maybe.
Okay.
You have Braxton Hicks.
It's really nothing
to worry about.
It's just your body getting
ready for the big race.
But you are going to have
to take it easy for the rest
of the day.
You're sure I'm not
in labour?
Yeah.
After 20 years of doing this,
I'm pretty sure.
Your baby's heart would be
beating a lot faster
if you were going
into actual labour.
But I tell you what.
Let's get you inside.
We'll hook you up to a monitor
and then you'll feel better,
all right?
Okay, thanks.
Woman : Look at you!
Hey, man, what's going on?
Hey, Gans, what's up?
He's a big hero around here.
He hasn't shown his face
for a long time.
You must mean
a great deal to him.
Oh, no.
We're just friends.
Well, friend, my wife Maggie
is going to bring some lunch
by here and then you can be
our house guest for the night.
No, no, I couldn't.
Yeah, you can.
We'd love it if you would.
Jamie, come on.
[music]
Go easy now.
[music]
Steve : Show's over.
Back to work.
Nora : Maggie, the place
is just magnificent.
I want to thank you and
Steve for taking care of us.
Oh, it's our pleasure.
It's just great to see Jamie
and meet who's in his life.
So how do you
all know each other?
Oh, well, um... Steve's Dad
worked for Jamie's father.
I mean everybody
did around here.
Thoroughbreds are our local
industry, breeding them,
racing them, selling them.
All done here
at the Keenland Estates.
I'm sorry, I don't understand.
Jamie is James Keen
around these parts.
You didn't know?
No.
So Derringer's a stage name.
It's total Nashville,
fantasy stuff.
And you're saying Jamie's
father owns this whole place?
He did.
He's passed, I'm afraid.
But Jamie's brothers
run the place now.
They're in Dubai as we speak.
You know those Arab sheiks
are just about our best
customers these days.
I had no idea Jamie was so...
Rich?
Yeah, well...
It's no bed of roses
for him in the big house.
Those boys never
really took to Jamie.
They used to rough
him up pretty bad.
Why?
Well, it's hard to say.
Maybe it's because
of their mother.
The story is, she was
donating big bucks to some
foster care center,
and she just fell in love
with him at first sight.
I think he was two or three
when she brought him home,
so she just...
Wait.
He was adopted?
Jamie, Jamie was adopted.
Oh, yes, I mean all you have
to do is just look at him.
The first two are these
gigantic red heads
and Jamie's dark and skinny,
and when his Mom died,
Steve's family just kind of
took him in.
Wow, you know a lot more
about him than I do.
Yeah, well, I'm kind of
the girl next door and
it's a pretty small town around
here if you know what I mean.
[music]
[music]
Maggie : I couldn't decide
which one to marry,
but Steve asked me first.
Jamie : You did not.
Steve : Yeah, I did.
I did.
You can see how much
they've matured.
I'm going to ride back
with Steve.
I'm going to give you two
some time on your own.
Be sure you bring her
back before it gets dark.
She needs her rest.
Steve : Don't listen to her.
[music]
I got to admit, I'm a little
confused, Jamie, about the whole
rodeo riding, hillbilly,
don't read music, thing.
I mean, you're basically
a blueblood.
I know, it's show business.
Jamie, your being adopted
and this whole
giving the baby away, I mean...
How could you
give your baby away?
Please don't start that.
I mean, really.
I can't believe how
cavalier you are about it.
What are you going to do?
Just hand your baby away
and never look back?
Is that really what
you're going to do?
Listen to me.
I have worked very hard
for the life that I have
and I'm not giving it up
because I...
because I made a mistake.
But look at you, Jamie.
Look at the wonderful life
that you were given.
Yeah, I know.
And I'd give it back
in a heartbeat
just to know my birth mother.
Well, I was raised by
a single mother, and she was...
she was tired, she was angry,
she was...
she was stingy,
she was resentful.
I like my sophisticated
grown-up life.
It's cost me a lot in every way.
Jamie do you honestly think that
raising a child with resentment
is better than finding
a home full of love?
Please, I understand
why this is so hard,
but I need your signature
to make things right
for this baby.
I don't know.
I mean I just don't know, Nora.
We should get going.
[music]
[piano music]
[applause]
All right.
That was the best I ever heard!
Great job.
All right you two,
it's bed time.
Yeah, time for bed.
Ready to go?
Yeah.
Let's go.
I hope it's a girl.
Good night, sweetie.
Steve : Come on, let's go.
Maggie : Now there are pillows
and blankets and everything
in the cabinet
in the spare room.
Thank you so much.
You have made me feel
so welcome.
Oh, that's 'cause you are.
[knock, knock, knock]
Come in.
[door squeaks open]
[door clunks closed]
I thought you might
like some tea.
I would.
Thank you.
[silence]
Elsie Dobie was the reason
I started to play the guitar.
I was a pretty messed up kid.
When I heard that sound,
I just wanted to imitate it.
You do remember that night.
I do.
When you came to the stage
door that night in the rain,
in my head I was so angry...
I mean for months
I couldn't get you
out of my head.
You acted like
you didn't know me.
I know.
It's because I've never been
with a woman like you, Nora.
You're so smart and beautiful.
And I figured for you it was
some lapse in judgment we had.
No, it wasn't.
When you came back,
about all you wanted
was my autograph,
and all I wanted was you.
Jamie...
I like being Jamie Derringer.
He's happy, successful.
People worship the ground
he walks on.
That ain't really me.
James Keen was a loser.
Yeah, he's got a granddaddy
who's rich enough to build
a concert hall.
And a daddy whose stud horses
won derbies, but...
in reality he's just
a dumb foster kid.
Not the kind of man
a woman like you would want.
Jamie.
Why didn't you say something?
Nora, tell me
we can be together.
Tell me I could be
this baby's father.
[music]
[phone rings...]
Claire.
Hi.
No, I'm awake.
No, no, I understand.
You needed time.
Well, things are a bit crazy.
Yeah.
Well, he actually...
He actually proposed last night.
Well, at least he says he wants
to be a father to the baby.
Yeah.
Kind of late in the game.
I don't know.
I mean that's what he says
he feels now, but who knows
what he'll feel in another
day or another week.
I don't know.
All I know is,
I came to get that signature
and I'm going to get it.
[music]
Jamie : So much for thinking
things through, huh, Nora?
What?
I heard you on the phone.
I can't believe you, that after
everything we've been through
all you still want
is my damn signature.
Why did you spring
this all on me now?
If you'd have been up front
with me from the start,
maybe things
would have been different.
Maybe we would have...
[door bangs open]
I'm sorry.
I'll come back later.
Jamie : No, that's all right.
I was just leaving.
[footsteps]
He gets like this sometimes.
I wouldn't worry about it.
Look, I don't know
what he's told you.
Nothing.
I don't know a single thing
about what is going on
but he's a good man, Nora.
Yeah.
Yeah, I'm sure he is.
But, um...
Could you just help me
call a cab please?
Yeah, sure.
Sure, I can do that.
[music]
[music]
[music]
Janet : That's the red velvet.
It's our biggest seller.
It's very good.
I'm just not hungry.
Thank you.
Mary : Well, maybe it's a bit
rich for your condition.
Listen I need to be honest.
I'm really sorry, but...
I don't have
the paternity release.
Oh, we don't care.
No, no, no, that's okay.
You really don't care?
No, I mean if the father
wants to be part
of this baby's life,
that is totally okay with us.
But, what if he...
You know the father right?
He's a decent guy?
Yeah.
Mary : Yeah, well, once he
sees how happy the baby is
with us, he's not going
to want to take it away.
We've been wanting a child
for a really long time.
And clearly we don't live
under the same rules
as everybody else, so...
Mary : So we just be honoured
to raise your child
and to share that with you.
Or the man who brought
this baby into our life.
Mary : Right.
That is really amazing,
and I think anybody would be
really lucky to have
you two as mothers.
Thank you.
So I think we should...
Um...
Are you okay?
I think my water just broke.
Oh...!
I'm sorry.
We'll go to the hospital.
[intermingled excited voices]
What do we do?
What do we do?
Get the keys.
Get the keys.
They're in the kitchen.
This is really embarrassing.
[intermingled excited voices]
No, no, please don't
feel embarrassed.
Omigawd...
Okay...
[intermingled excited voices]
[loud C & W music]
[loud C & W music]
[loud C & W music]
Manager : Hey, look, I'm going
to have to call you back.
Hey, how're you doing, man?
I knew you'd come!
Come on in.
Everybody's here.
Hey, everybody!
Would you stop.
I gotta...
Guess who?
Hey, aren't you glad to see me?
Yeah.
Hey, baby, how are you?
And, look at this, huh?
A bottle of single malt scotch
all the way from Inverness,
Scotland.
You are going to love that.
It is smoking.
It's smoking?
Yeah!
Come here, I got something
more smoking.
Oh, yeah?
Hey, Dixie.
Hey, come on, let's go.
Wake up.
Jamie's here.
Come on, there you go.
Hey, everybody!
Woman : Hey, girls,
this is Jamie Derringer.
Jamie : Hi, boys, how are you?
Hi, ladies.
And this is my sister, Tiffany.
She's been bugging me
to meet you.
I love you.
I have all your CDs.
Oh, hey, I wanted to mention...
Look, I just got off the phone
with Stockholm a couple
of hours ago and they met
all our demands, right?
So, starting next week,
we get ready for ten cities
in ten days.
Huh? What the hell you
talking about?
You said we had a month off!
Hey, well, no rest
for the wicked, man, right?
Whahoo-hoo!
Hey, who's got a tequila
for big daddy!
You wanna go upstairs?
I bet you like to ride bareback.
No, I don't.
Take that.
Manager : Hey, girls,
I'm coming in!
Yeah!
Whahoo!
[music]
[music]
[music]
[music]
[music]
Hi.
Yeah, it's me.
Guess who's having a baby?
I think I need you.
Can you come?
Now?
[music]
[phone rings]
Hola?
Jamie : Hello, Nora?
I want to speak to Nora.
Miss not here, baby coming.
Yeah, I'd like to know
what hospital you're at.
Hospital?
St. Vincent.
Yeah, uh-huh.
Okay, gracias.
[music]
Nurse : You did a great job.
Three pushes, nice and easy.
They should all go like that.
You feeling okay?
I'm fine.
Claire...
you came.
I'm sorry.
I didn't know who else to call.
I'm sorry.
I'm just glad I'm here.
You okay?
They took the baby.
They said with possible
adoptions it's better than way.
Less attachment.
Well, I guess I understand that.
They almost didn't let me in.
Family members only.
What did you say?
That I was your sister.
Come on.
[sobs]
[footsteps]
Excuse me, miss.
I'm looking for Nora Flannery.
She's in labour.
She'll be in Recovery
for a few hours.
Can I see her?
Are you family?
No, I've come up from...
Then you'll have to be patient.
Those ladies over there?
They're waiting, too.
You can wait with them.
[background hospital PA]
Janet : I know, I know.
She's great.
She's a classical music
critic from Philadelphia.
She's great and she's going
to let us have the baby.
Can you believe it?
Instant mommies.
We're excited.
What a thought!
Yeah, we're happy.
[music]
[music]
Did you see her?
Claire : Yeah.
[music]
Oh, god!
I don't know if I can do this.
Then don't.
Don't do it.
You're not a girl, Nora.
This isn't going to ruin
your life.
It isn't a mistake.
It's something amazing.
Don't you just want
to hold that child?
Yes.
But...
But that is all
you need to know.
[music]
Will you...
Will you help me?
Of course I will.
I'm your friend
and I'm your sister.
[music]
All right.
All right.
I need to talk
to Mary and Janet.
I need to talk
to them right away.
I'll go get them.
Okay.
Excuse me.
Could you please bring me...
my baby?
I'm not so sure
that's such a good idea.
The social worker's already
signing the release forms...
Please.
I want to see her.
I want to see my baby.
All right.
Oh, I almost forgot.
A man dropped this off.
He said you'd know
what it was about.
[music]
[music]
I'll be sad
to see you go, my man.
Thank you.
I appreciate you saying that.
No, everybody...
I mean the whole band
feels that way.
Well, I'm sure the new guy's
gonna work out just fine.
Oh, yeah, well...
Um...
Look...
What about a solo career?
I mean, you got a great voice,
you write great lyrics
and you got a huge following.
I mean if you want,
I can make a few phone calls
and we could take a few
meetings.
Thanks.
I appreciate you saying that
but I'm just going to call it
quits for now.
Go ahead, break my heart.
Break my heart, James.
Come here.
Come on, give us a hug, eh?
Hey, now you stay in touch.
I will, take care.
Ow, ow, ow, ow ow!
Yeah!
Love you, man!
[footsteps]
[sound of approaching car]
Mary : It's okay, I got it.
Ohhh...
Jamie : Here, let me...
Mary : Hey, uh...
Well, thank you.
Jamie : You're welcome.
You must be Mary and Janet.
Yeah, that's us.
I got your names
from the hospital.
I'm Jamie, the baby's father.
Mary : Oh, yeah...
Jamie the musician.
Yeah, I'm afraid so.
Look, I know I signed a release
and I really don't have
a leg to stand on here
but I'd like to see the baby.
But we never got the baby.
Janet : It was hard for us,
but I guess giving birth
changed everything for Nora.
Anyhow, she changed her mind.
Yeah, you didn't know?
No, no, I didn't.
So you didn't know that
she named her Jamie.
That's, uh...
I'm going to let you two
get back to work.
Thank you.
Sure.
Okay.
Janet : I know, but I feel
sorry for him.
Okay, you gotta tell him.
Jamie, you know what?
I think maybe you should
talk to Nora.
You hold on.
I'll get her address.
[music]
[C & W music's playing]
[baby gurgles]
[ding-dong]
Oh, no.
I've got to get the door,
sweetie.
[C & W music]
Come here.
Come here.
Get you dry.
Got to get the door.
[C & W radio music]
[door squeaks open]
Sorry, we were just
having a bath.
Well, it sounds like you
finally got some taste in music.
[C & W music]
Hello there, sweetheart.
[C & W music]
[C & W music]
Nora : And you've just
been listening to Tchaikovsky's
Serenade for Strings.
And if you love Tchaikovsky
as much as I do, please join me
tonight as I talk about this
most romantic of composers
in the opening lecture
of this symphony season.
Looking forward
to seeing you there.
This has been Preludes
with Nora Flannery on WKRA.
[switch clicks off]
Reggie : You're off.
Nora : And I'm out of here.
All right, sweetie.
Be good then.
All right, see you tomorrow.
Hello?
No, no.
I'm just doing the
pre concert talk.
I think I can make it.
By 8:30?
No problem.
What?
No, I'm excited.
It's a good angle...
classical music critic
goes to a country concert.
It'll be fun.
And if it gets you
to hire me
for more reviews, great!
Well, that's almost a yes.
Okay, thanks for thinking
of me.
Bye.
So Nadezhda von Meck spills her
guts to him in long letters,
no doubt nurtures untold
numbers of fantasies about him,
and supports Tchaikovsky by
sending him 6000 rubles a year,
and yet she insists on having
no social interaction
with him at all.
Why?
[click]
Well, maybe it wasn't
such a bad idea after all.
Nadezhda was his benefactress
but she was also
a tireless listener
with whom Tchaikovsky shared
more of himself than anyone.
[click]
[footsteps]
[piano music]
Tchaikovsky himself
conducted the Pathétique
on October 28, 1893,
in St. Petersburg.
Three days later...
[piano music]
some say from cholera...
[piano music]
others say it was suicide...
he was dead.
[piano music]
[music]
The Pathétique may
be the most melancholy
of all the great symphonies.
And I believe for Tchaikovsky
it captured the sadness of what
would never be for him -
a full and honest love.
[music]
So tonight I hope you'll enjoy
Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky's
Symphony No. 6, the Pathétique.
[applause]
[classical music]
[rocking country and western]
[sings] "Been so long
out on the road
Put so many miles
on this old Prevost
You're the best thing
I've seen in some time
Sweet champagne
after months of cheap wine
It's been so nice knowin' ya...
It's been so nice knowin' ya.
You know it hurts to say goodbye
But I got a bottle of Jack
and my D45
Singing Hank Williams songs
as we roll down the road
I'm gonna miss you baby
But I got to go
It's been so nice
knowin' ya..."
Come on!
[music]
I love you, Jamie!
[music]
We love you, Jamie!
Hang on for a second, guys.
I'm really sorry about that.
I've just got to talk
to these girls right here.
Now, what did
I hear you say, ladies?
Oh, come on, don't be shy.
Did I hear you say you love me?
We love you.
How do you know
I'm the one for you?
It doesn't matter!
We love you!
Come on, ladies, it does matter.
[music]
[sings] "Don't give
your love away-hey."
[excited screaming audience]
"Just listen to your heart"
[excited screaming...]
"Find a love
that's gonna stay-hey.
Don't give your love away-ay.
Some folks say that love
is like a river
The way it flows..."
[music fades...]
Manager : Come on, boys.
Catch some flash bulbs.
[excited crowd noise]
[camera shutters click]
Nora : Mr. Derringer!
Jamie : Mister Derringer?
Nora : Mr. Derringer,
I loved Lonely Star.
Did you borrow the structure
from Bach's Chacome
by any chance?
No.
[excited crowd voices]
Jamie : She's all right
to come in, just her.
Hey, you, from the Herald,
Mr. Derringer would like you
to join us.
He said to let you,
and only you, in.
Come on.
Crowd voices : What about us?
Hey man, thanks for nothing!
Manager : Close it up.
[background C & W music]
[background C & W music]
Bach, huh?
Yeah.
There's a theory.
Gets them every time.
Look, I was hoping I could
ask you some questions.
Manager : Hey,
it's a done deal!
The Japan tour is definitely on.
All right!
Sushi!
Oh, and a lot of it, huh?
Hey, look,
I'll catch you later, man.
I'm going to go upstairs and
talk to the merchandizing folks
about new receipts.
See how we did tonight.
All right.
Good show, huh?
Good show!
Ow-ow-ow-eeee...
Everyone : Whoooooo....!
You know it, man!
Yeah, love it, love it.
That was interesting.
Yeah, Moon Shout Hal.
Just be thankful
it was a short one.
Say, you're not like the usual
guy that's hangin' around.
Did he get fired?
No, it's a cross-cultural
sort of thing.
I cover this, the pop critic
covers Shostakovich.
Yeah, I get it...
a gimmick.
No, I wouldn't say
it's a gimmick exactly.
I don't read music,
incidentally, so there's
no way I could have borrowed
from that piece
you were talking about.
Of course not.
What I meant was that it
was a springboard, a creative
inspiration or something.
Look, I'm not sure
I introduced myself.
I'm Nora Flannery,
I'm from the Herald.
I would really like
to interview you.
Nora?
Flannery.
Nora Flannery.
Have you got a car?
[background music]
I'm just so sick of limos and
busses and planes and drivers.
It sounds like you've got
a lot more of that coming up.
Asia.
You know how big Asia is?
It's very big.
I'm never going to see the
inside of my house again.
[beep, beep car lock]
That's your car?
Shoot, I didn't think
you'd have a decent ride.
I have to drive.
It's my vice.
I've got to admit, I like speed.
Just being able to get
in your own car
and drive wherever the hell
you want without thousands
of people following you...
You have no idea.
Can you walk a straight line?
What are you, a cop?
If you can prove to me
you're not drunk, you can drive.
Lady, believe me, you will
know when I'm drunk.
[slow measured footsteps]
I could do that
on the back of a bull.
[jingle of keys]
Rodeo?
Yes, ma'am.
[footsteps]
Wait, hang on a sec.
No, no, no, no.
Oh, no, come on.
Don't be silly.
Mm... scent of suede,
it takes me back.
Oh, yeah?
To what?
Your high school boyfriend?
Yeah, I've heard it before.
What can I say?
I guess I'm just
a walking cliché.
Trust me, it's not a bad thing.
That boy was cute.
[music]
[music]
[music]
Jamie : Hotel bar's going
to be okay with you?
It's the quietest place in town.
Nora : It's fine.
How's that?
Okay.
Oh, I got that for you.
Thank you.
Jamie : Howdy.
What are you having?
Oh, white wine,
Pinot Grisio please.
I'll have a double JD
straight up, thanks.
So, I guess we should start.
Do you mind if I record this?
Wow! I can't believe
you're sitting right here!
You were awesome tonight!
Thank you, I appreciate it.
You all have a good night now.
Hey, do me a favour.
Sign my baby's t-shirt
for me, will you?
Sign it, or skin,
anywhere, just go ahead.
I'm really sorry, but
I'm off duty for the night.
Oh, no way.
Oh come on, don't be like that.
We paid a lot of money
to see you.
I hope you had a good time.
Have a good night.
Look, you're sitting here
doing exactly nothing, man.
Now don't be a jerk.
Sign the shirt.
Maybe after we do the
interview or something.
What?
No time for your fans?
You know what?
You suck big time anyways.
The only reason I went is
'cause my cousin gave me
the tickets, hot shot.
[crash, rattle of glasses]
Leave... me... alone.
[background music]
Congratulations,
I guess you got your story.
[music]
Guy : Did you see that?
Someone should call the cops!
Girl : Did he hurt you?
Did he?
Guy : You're lucky
I don't sue you.
Girl : It's okay.
Come on.
[music]
[elevator ding!]
[doors slide open]
[distant Hank Williams music]
[doors slide closed]
[knock, knock]
[door squeaks open]
[Hank Williams music]
Hello.
Jamie?
[Hank Williams music]
[Hank Williams music]
Hey.
Sorry.
I just...
I just realized
I still had your jacket.
[Hank Williams music]
Oh, thanks.
[music]
Listen...
I'm not going to write about
what happened at the bar.
You're not?
No, I'm not.
I'm interested in your music.
Yeah?
And I'm interested in you.
For an interview, I mean.
Um...
What happened back there,
that wasn't fair.
I still feel bad.
Well, hey, come on in.
Get on in here.
You want an interview,
I want to give you an interview.
Have a seat.
Let me get some clothes,
all right?
Sit.
Sit down.
[music]
What'll you have?
Nothing.
I'm fine.
Oh, come on.
You got to have something.
I mean I got everything.
A professional perk
you might say.
I'm good.
Oh, you got to try this.
I mean, this is a nice one.
It's a red and it's real dry.
Stylish, like you.
Thank you.
Cheers.
[glasses clink]
Ahhh...
Well, sit down.
Hm.
You know wine.
Well, you could at least
try to keep the surprise
out of your voice.
Sorry.
So I guess we should start
by talking about your
first set tonight.
It was, um...
What?
Um...
My tape recorder,
I left it in the bar.
I'll go get it.
That place will
be closed by now.
I'll take notes then.
Whatever blows up your skirt.
Is this the way you
show me you're not a jerk?
I'm sorry.
It just happens sometimes
when I open my mouth.
Hm!
Okay, well, here we go.
Classical music critic
meets a Country bad ass.
First question.
So you don't know music theory,
you don't read a note,
and yet you've written
some of the most popular
country music songs
in the past few years.
How do you do it?
Well...
I taught myself guitar.
I'd sit in my room for
hours on end playing chords.
I listened to a lot of music...
Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash.
You know, the real
old story-tellers.
Turns out I could just hear it
once, and play it right back.
That's a real gift.
Yeah, or a real curse.
Why?
Do you think things have
to be hard to be worthwhile?
Well, what's hard
is everything else
besides playing guitar.
You get into this business
to avoid responsibility.
Pretty soon it's like every
second of every day
is scheduled.
The music is just
an excuse for the business
when it's supposed to be
the other way around.
Hey, what am I whining about?
Whenever I want
I can pick up a guitar
and play this.
[classical guitar music]
[classical guitar music]
The Chacome.
You do know it.
Yeah, well I heard it once.
Here, you play a song.
No, I should go.
It's getting late.
No, I played for you,
you gotta play for me.
Gotta play our roles.
I don't play the guitar.
You have no choice.
[laughter]
Okay.
Okay...
[hums and strums gently]
[hums and strums gently]
[hums and strums gently]
[hums and strums gently]
That was real pretty.
That was real nice.
Yeah... a couple of lessons
in fifth grade.
Yeah?
You know you got
the G7 a little wrong.
Oh.
That's all right.
I'll show you.
You ready?
Yeah, okay.
Lesson One.
All right.
Got to get your posture right.
Which is it?
This one?
Yeah, you want
to get your index finger
over the fret like that.
Try that.
Okay.
[discordant strum]
What's going on with
your finger right there?
I don't know.
You got to relax it.
Okay. Okay.
Just relax.
[strum]
You got to relax
your forearm, too.
Tuck your shoulder
a little forward.
Give you a little more length.
Like that?
[guitar strum]
You don't know what relax is.
You're not relaxing.
[music]
[music]
[music]
I'm not sure this
is at all professional.
Yeah.
[music]
Yeah.
[music]
What does that mean anyway?
Professional?
[music]
[music]
[door bangs open]
Good morning, love birds!
Hey, Jamie, come on, let's go,
Let's go buddy, get them up.
The bus leaves in ten minutes.
Hey! Hey! Up!
Are you there?
What is going on?
Oh, there's my boy.
Come on, come on.
I'm sorry, darling.
He's a notoriously hard sleeper.
It's the only way we can
get his ass on the bus.
Oh, it's you.
Well, I am sorry.
All the ladies hate it.
But truth is, we got a gig
in Baltimore tonight
and we got to go.
Let's go, man, come on.
You all right?
Yeah.
Okay, let's go.
I got to go.
I had a lovely time.
We're late.
Come on.
"It's been so nice knowing you."
Wha-hoo.
[slam!]
Ahhh...!
[laughs]
Nora : This is WKRA 97.1 FM
where classical music lives.
I'm Nora Flannery, your host
for Preludes coming to you each
day from 6:00 to 11:00 a.m.
on your morning drive.
Okay?
Come on, I could have charged
admission for that one.
I could have charged admission.
I loved it, and, might I add,
you are punishing
that dress young lady.
You've really, uh...
You're really filling out.
You must have been one major
pain in the ass in junior high.
Maybe just a little.
So, Sylvie from the
Paris Quartet called back.
She was looking for
a phone number for Carl, uh...
What's his last name?
Tillmans.
Tillmans?
And she said he's in Milan
with the opera.
See if someone can track
him down because he was
supposed to send me his
Schoenberg recordings for my
lecture on atonal structure.
Yeah, remind me
to study up for that one.
And I'm going to need
it soon, so I can put my...
God, is it hot in here?
Kinda, let's get some air.
Come on, I'll spring
for the iced lattes.
You know you are looking
good in that dress.
Is it the bra?
Padded?
Enough about my boobs
already, what is the deal?
Reggie : Oh, Nora, Nora,
your secret's safe with me,
I'm not going to tell anybody
about that padded bra.
I won't tell a soul.
Rude, rude man.
So how are you feeling
after this last invitro?
Oh, you'd think out of five
one would've took, just one.
But no...
no such luck.
Sorry.
Are you going to try again?
I want a baby.
That's all I think about.
Baby, baby, baby.
I know.
I don't think about my
career the way you do anymore.
I want to be a mom.
I want to be a family.
You will be.
Yeah.
Alrighty, I will have
a double espresso, please,
and my friend will have...
Ugh, that smell.
What? Coffee beans?
Last week you said you
wanted to bottle it
and wear it as perfume.
I think I'm going to be sick.
Oh, oh.
Hang on a sec.
[swoosh of running water]
Are you feeling better?
Yeah.
I must've eaten something bad.
I feel terrible.
Oh, you know,
if I didn't know better...
No, no, no, it can't be.
What?
Well, I just, uh...
Have you ever thought
about a pregnancy test?
No.
I'm just saying...
the sensitivity to smell,
the nausea,
plus the bigger the better.
Oh my god.
Oh my god, my period.
I'm a few days late,
but I didn't think that...
Holy Hanna.
How much longer?
Thirty more seconds.
[phone rings]
Oh, it's just Jeff.
You should go.
Are you kidding?
You'd have to kidnap me
to get me out of here.
You'd have to send
in swat teams.
You'd have to beam me
out of here, okay?
Besides Jeff is
chronically early.
It's a thing they teach
in law school.
Nine, eight, seven, uh, uh, uh.
Did I ever tell you
how controlling you were?
How long have you known me?
Three, two, one.
[music]
Ohhh...
[music]
Positive.
Oh, my, oh, my.
I'm sorry, so sorry.
It just came out.
I didn't expect it to happen.
[gasping]
I'm pregnant.
Yeah.
I'm sorry.
I don't mean to be so selfish.
It just came over me.
It's just weird.
Okay, I'm so sorry, Nora, I am.
That's all right.
Okay...
So, are you going to tell Rene?
Rene?
No, no... That's been over
for almost a year.
Wow, the things best friends
keep to themselves these days.
I'm not obligated to tell
you everything that happens
in my life.
Yes, yes you are.
Now's your chance
to make it up to me.
Remember when I went
to see that country group,
the Moonshine Dogs?
Um-hum.
And I interviewed
Jamie Derringer?
"Country music bad ass,"
you said in the article.
Okay, yeah, okay, you
interviewed Jamie Derringer...
Oh my god!
You slept with Jamie Derringer!
You slept with Jamie Derringer?
22 year old Jamie Derringer?
Oh, you slept with
Jamie Derringer! Oh!
He's like on the cover of every
gossip magazine everywhere!
Oh, you slept with him and you
didn't tell me about it?
Oh, that is so...
that is so...
I know.
I'm a horrible person.
That is so cool.
It is?
Oh, yes.
Yes, it is.
Oh, and you know what else?
You are going to love
being a Mom.
A single Mom you mean.
No way.
No, no, no, no.
Don't just dismiss it.
No, you can handle this.
You're very organized.
It's like a sickness with you.
I mean a gift.
Oh, come on, look at this place.
No, I was raised
by a single mother.
I saw what that was like.
I swore that would never be me.
Oh, the irony, huh?
I go through hell to try and
get pregnant and here you are,
one pop - boom.
I know, I know.
I'm so sorry, Claire.
No, no, no, no, not your fault.
No, I just can't think about it
otherwise it'll make me crazy.
I mean craizier.
So, uh...
[phone rings]
Will you stop calling.
I'm on my way.
Will you be okay?
I'm fine.
You sure?
I'm sure.
Absolutely sure?
Because I don't mind telling
Jeff to stuff his client dinner.
No, I'm pregnant,
I'm not terminal.
You should go.
Okay, but I want you
to call me later.
I want to know how you're
doing, okay?
Okay, I will.
Oh, Jamie Derringer!
You're totally my hero
now, you know, and I want
the details very soon.
See you.
[music]
[music]
Holy Hanna.
Don't you see, I've been
thinking about this for hours.
It's perfect.
It's the perfect solution.
Don't joke.
Don't do that to me, Nora.
I'm not jokiung.
I want you and Jeff
to have this baby.
Really.
I have thought of everything.
I don't mind carrying
the baby for you.
In fact I would love
to do that for you.
To make a baby for you, I would.
I don't know what to say.
Claire, you have always
wanted to be a family.
This is your chance.
It would be confusing for you.
No, it won't.
It would be confusing
for the kid.
No, not if it won't
be confusing for me.
Come on, Claire.
You could finally be a family.
We could be a family.
We could be a family, Jeff.
What are you thinking?
What about this
Jamie Derringer guy?
What if this big star decides
that he wants his baby back
after all?
Nora : Believe me, there is
absolutely no chance
of that happening.
I don't know.
Oh, please, honey,
think about it.
I mean, no more hormone shots.
We wouldn't have to take
the little bottles
to the doctor's office.
No more disappointments.
And then we'd have a baby
that we know would be smart.
And cute.
And beautiful and smart.
Jeff : Okay.
But I'd have to insist
on a paternity release.
We couldn't take
the chance without it.
But...
if it's what you want.
It is, it is.
And you are absolutely
positively sure about this?
Yes, are you?
Yes, yes!
Oh, it's great and
I won't have to give birth.
You will.
[music]
This Maler is amazing.
[music]
You're a little loud.
Sorry.
[click]
You know, I feel fabulous today.
Those books are so right.
20 weeks in, I feel great.
Great.
Except you know what?
Can we get these
stork vitamins out of here.
Uh... hello?
Everybody knows.
I know, it's just
the whole hippo thing
I'm not quite ready for.
Well, at least they
have nice clothes now.
Yeah, wanna to go shopping?
Yeah.
Another one of these came back.
Oh, Jamie Derringer?
I've contacted his record
label, his management company.
I spoke to his agent who said
he's in China on his way
to Japan and then Southeast
Asia and god only knows
where after that.
I've tried everything.
You know I don't care
about his signature.
It's your baby.
I know.
Jeff doesn't exactly
see things that way.
Oh, Jeff's a lawyer.
Besides, with the hours
he's putting in these days,
it's impossible for him to act
like a normal human being.
Now, let's go shopping.
Some for me, some for you.
[music]
Latte.
Here you go, non-alcoholic.
Where's Claire,
the guest of honour?
I don't know.
I've been calling her.
She's not answering her phone.
Well, I applaud you,
both of you.
It really is something.
Here's to the unconventional.
[glasses clink]
[background music]
Oh, there she is.
Hi.
Hey.
[sobs]
[music]
[sniffles]
It's Jeff.
He's in love with somebody else.
His paralegal, um...
and he's leaving me.
Oh, honey.
[music]
He wants a divorce, Nora.
Oh, god.
It's going to be all right.
It's not going to happen.
We're not going to be a family.
[music]
[music]
[door opens]
[music]
Oh no, please.
Don't get up.
Thank you for
seeing me so quickly.
Not a problem.
I think I explained to you
my situation on the phone.
I need to move very fast.
Well, you've come
to the right place.
Adoptions 'R Us.
So, tell me,
what are you looking for
in the adoptive parents?
Just a good family.
People who will love this baby.
You're making my job easy.
If you sign a few papers
today and get me
the paternity release as soon
as possible, I can start
setting up some interviews.
Paternity release.
[sigh]
Have we hit our snag?
Is it possible to do this
without a release?
Not if you want to avoid
further legal difficulties
down the road.
Do you know who the father is?
Yes, of course.
Look there's no judgment here.
It was a brief involvement.
He's a celebrity, sort of.
Well, all the more reason to
ensure there's no complications.
I guess I'll try
calling him again.
Listen, Nora, after doing
this for more than 20 years,
I know you have to see him
in person.
There's no other way.
Well...
I hear he's going
to be in Atlanta.
Maybe I'll take the train
since I can't fly anymore.
What if I connected you
with some couples in that area?
Works out quite well, actually.
I prefer there be at least three
states between the biological
mother and the adoptive family.
[sigh]
I feel like there's about
three states between me
and the rest of the world.
Reggie : All right.
[traffic]
I got you.
Nora : I'm good.
I got it.
All right, so the car rental
office is right by the station.
The hotel reservation's
been confirmed.
And don't forget your package.
Oh yeah, I need that.
That's the information
from my lawyer
about the prospective parents
I'll be meeting.
Hopefully this will help
me narrow down my choices.
You still trying
to get ahold of Claire?
Yeah, she's not
answering her phone.
She's holed up
at her parents' house.
I just wish she'd call me.
Well, I'll try to get
hold of her, too.
Look, and don't worry.
I know you're going to find
what you're looking for, okay?
I know you will.
Thank you.
All right, sweetie.
Are you good with all this?
I'm good.
Okay.
Don't hook up with
anybody on the way.
Sh!
You shut up.
See you later.
[music]
[music]
[excited crowd cheers]
Nora : Jamie!
Jamie!
[music]
Jamie.
It's Nora.
Nora Flannery.
I just need you to
sign this release.
I don't know who you are.
Come on, let's go, man!
There's a party waiting!
Look out!
Come on, Atlanta!
Wahoo!
Look what I got for you.
[music]
Not tonight, sweetheart.
[music]
[phone rings]
Hi, Claire?
No, it's me, Areva.
Oh, hi!
Did you get that signature?
No.
I'll get it tomorrow.
Your first interview
is with the Millers
tomorrow in Chattanooga.
He's a police officer,
she's a homemaker,
very stable, good prospects.
What about the family
in Knoxville,
they were my favourites.
We'll talk about them when
you get those papers signed.
I'll get it.
I will.
I hope so.
It's crucial.
Have a good evening.
Okay, good night.
[music]
[music]
[music]
[phone rings...]
[music]
Claire, it's me again.
Look, I know you don't want
to talk to anyone right now,
but I really wish you'd
call me just to let me know
how you're doing.
I just think we've gotta...
You know what?
I'm sorry, I gotta go.
Claire, call me, please.
Call me.
Jamie!
Jamie!
[music]
Jamie!
[car squeals away]
[music]
[music]
[music]
[music]
[music]
Jamie!
Jamie!
[music]
[music]
[music]
Damn.
[music]
[brakes screech!]
[slam!]
Are you happy now?
What are you?
Some kind of stalker?
All I want
is your damn signature.
Why would I sign
anything of yours?
In case you haven't
bothered to notice,
I'm pregnant and it's yours.
I told you, I don't know you.
Oooohhhh!
[slam!]
[footsteps]
[slam!]
What are you doing?
What are you doing?
What are you doing?
[car starts]
What are you doing?
I have an appointment in
three hours with a family
that wants to adopt this baby.
Here, have one of your boys
call for another rental.
You've got to be kidding!
What, so now you're a stalker
and a car thief?
I'll call your manager
when I get to Chattanooga.
You can pick your car up there.
Listen! Listen!
Stop! Stop the car!
I'm going to Chattanooga!
Wait!
Stop!
Let me in!
[music]
All right!
Just drop me off
at my girlfriend,
Lily Jane's place.
She'd never steal my car.
[opera music]
[C & W music]
Hey, I was listening to that.
[opera]
Dead man's dirge.
[C & W]
It's Madame Butterfly.
[opera]
My point exactly.
[C & W]
Please.
My man left me again.
Bunch of whiners.
[click]
[music]
You know, I don't get
your whole attitude.
Attitude?
What are you talking
about attitude?
It seems that all you want
from a woman is that
she's ready and willing.
She'll do your laundry maybe.
Let you sleep off your drunks,
am I right?
Are you talking about Lily Jane?
She likes my company is all.
She likes that you
treat her like a maid?
You know I bet you didn't even
have the decency to call her
and ask her if she even
wants to see you.
Yeah, I bet she really
likes that.
We don't have that
kind of relationship.
Well, that's no kind of
relationship if you ask me.
[music]
So why don't you just keep it?
I just want to find the baby
a good family that's all.
All right.
By good I suppose
you mean rich, big house,
fancy college, that whole deal?
I just mean good.
[music]
So why didn't you just,
you know, get it taken care of?
You know, I don't have
to justify my decisions
to you or anybody else.
All right, all right.
Why don't you pull over.
I'll drive.
You look tired.
You shouldn't be driving
anyway.
You're pregnant.
[music]
Ohh... my back.
Oh, yoo-hoo!
You-hoo!
You found the place, okay?
Oh, you must be Nora.
You're so beautiful!
Your picture doesn't
do you justice.
I'm surprised you
recognize me at all.
Oh, nonsense.
And you are?
Oh, this is, uh... Joey.
He's a friend.
Of the father?
Yes.
No.
No.
Yeah.
Uh... I'm a friend of Nora's
but I don't know the father.
Oh... What kind of man
wouldn't just die
to be this baby's daddy?
A fool, I'd say.
Nora : I'm so happy
to meet you both.
[music]
Hey, Joey, did anyone ever
tell you that you look
a heck of a lot like that guy
on the Moonshine Dogs?
Yeah, he gets that all
the time, don't you, Joey?
Nothing wrong with that.
He's a good looking fella.
[music]
Nora : Thank you so much,
This has been so lovely.
You are just wonderful.
Oh, bye.
Oh, bye.
Glad to meet you.
Take care of our little girl.
Bye, now.
Safe driving.
Bye.
All that corn
and back pattin'.
What the hell was that?
If it was something else
I'd tell you, Nora.
I had to say something.
It just came out.
Thank you.
[music]
He said there's a rental
car on the other side of town.
You can just drop me off there.
Can I use your phone now?
I really have to call LJ.
No, you know the deal.
You're acting like a little kid.
Yeah, well, I guess we
pregnant ladies are hell
to deal with.
[music]
[music]
Did you like them?
They were very nice.
Yeah?
I don't see you giving
the baby up to 'em.
It isn't really
your business is it?
[car slides on gravel]
I guess not, but I just
did sit through two hours
of stale biscuits
and hundred year old jokes.
I mean I think I have...
Nobody asked you to come,
Jamie.
No?
I did.
I'm just saying that I don't
think that those people
are the right people
for this baby, that's all.
I mean, there was
something about them.
It's just like they weren't
artistic enough, you know,
don't you think?
What do you care,
one way or the other?
Right.
I don't care.
I don't care what...
You can do whatever you want.
I don't care.
I have to pee.
Again?
I have to pee.
I know, you just went
before we left.
You ever had 20 pounds
sitting on your bladder?
It's not comfortable.
I really have to pee.
Okay.
Okay, relax.
There's a sign for a diner.
Now?
I have to go to the bathroom.
You can call your girlfriend.
[music]
Jamie : Hello?
Who's this?
Derek who?
Oh, well I guess
congratulations are in order.
I just rang her, uh...
No, no, I didn't.
I'm... I'm an old friend
of hers, Jamie.
Uh... yeah.
Yeah, I'll wait.
Hey, baby, how are you?
Yeah, I heard.
You just got married.
I suddenly realized
I'm just famished.
Waitress : Maybe she's got
triplets in there.
Starve a fever, but Lord
help those who don't feed
a pregnant woman.
You think she'll
save any for me?
Looks like you could
use another cup of coffee.
Lady, you're a mind reader.
[music]
Thank you.
You're welcome.
So how far along are you?
How long has it been since
your concert in Philly?
[music]
Anyway, it's late, it's way
too late to be doing this,
but what choice did I have?
I'm going to pass
on the Millers.
I really liked the letter
they wrote, but in person,
I don't know.
All those smiley faces.
It's almost like they were
hiding something.
Exactly.
I got three more
families that I like.
Of them is my favourite.
Would you like to see them?
Sure.
[rustle of papers]
Wow, they all took so much care.
Yeah, they just put
their heart in there.
It's touching.
[music]
Look at this one.
[music]
Mayzelles.
They're Jewish.
Yes, they are.
Well, that's cool.
My grandfather's Jewish.
Really?
Yeah.
[music]
This kid's going to be musical,
there's no doubt about it.
Do you know whether
it's a boy or a girl?
What do you care?
Waitress : Can I get you
folks something else?
Uh...
No, just the check, thanks.
Well, that'll be $37.85.
Oh, I'll, uh...
get you some change.
Just keep it.
Why, thank you.
Well, I guess the next order
of business is to find a motel,
and a rental car in the morning.
Something big so I can
squeeze behind the wheel.
Yeah.
Thank you.
You all right?
Yeah.
I don't understand why
they won't meet with me
in the meantime.
I mean I'll drive down
to Knoxville if that's
what they want, Areva.
This is a legal issue.
There are plenty of couples
who would be happy to meet
you without the paternity
release, but the Mayzelles
are not one of them.
Okay.
Well, I'm headed
to Kentucky, now.
I'll call you tonight.
Thanks.
Bye.
Bye.
Rental girl : Okay, will
you be taking the insurance?
[music]
I need you to not
have any cars available.
Excuse me?
I need you to tell him
that you don't have any cars
for me to rent.
But we've got the Fords
and the GM.
Yes, I know that you have
them, but I want you
to pretend that you don't.
I don't understand.
Okay, see him?
That's Jamie Derringer.
No way.
And this is his baby.
No way!
And I need him to sign
a paternity document.
And if he puts me in a car
and sends me away right now,
I'm in big trouble.
Don't you worry
about a thing, ma'am.
[door clatters open]
They've got this big old
Pontiac with a huge front seat.
Should be perfect for you.
I'm so sorry but all of our
cars have just been reserved.
What?
What are you talking about?
I just got an email
from headquarters.
The farm equipment convention
starts on Friday.
And as of this moment
all of our vehicles have just
been taken out of inventory.
Pardon me, miss, I'm sorry,
it doesn't make no sense.
I just picked it out.
The kid's washing it right now.
I'm so sorry, sir.
Must be some sort of glitch
in the computer system.
I have an appointment
in Kentucky in four hours.
How am I supposed to get there?
Can I talk to your
national office?
Because you know a thing like
this would never happen
in Philadelphia.
Nora, Nora!
I'm really sorry, miss.
What are you doing?
How am I going to get there?
Who's going to drive me?
Come here, would you?
Look...
I'll drive you.
What about Lily Jane?
Forget Lily Jane, okay?
You shouldn't be driving
in this condition anyway.
Kentucky is...
It's where I'm from.
I've got family and friends
down there so it shouldn't
be a problem, okay?
Really?
That would be nice.
You're from Kentucky?
Yeah! I'm from...
Nora, do me a favour, okay?
Just don't get so upset.
It's not good for the baby.
All right, you're right.
Let's go.
Thank you.
Yeah.
[music]
[music]
[music]
Do you want the radio on?
I don't know if we're gonna find
classical music out here,
but maybe we can find something.
It's all right.
I'm fine.
I got this tune
stuck in my head.
My grandfather used
to sing it to me.
Want to try to guess what it is?
Okay.
[hums a tune]
It's nice.
You should record it.
Yeah, well... you know,
Shostakovich, but...
No, it's not.
It's Rachmaninoff's.
No, it isn't.
It's Teddy Mossman
and Buddy Cate, but nice try.
Yeah, but Ted Mossman
borrowed it from Rachmaninoff.
There's a lot of
borrowing going on.
A Whiter Shade of Pale?
Yeah?
Bach's Orchestral Suite
No. 3.
Paul Simon's American Tune?
Tchaikovsky's
Serenade for Strings.
I could go on and on.
You got a PhD in this stuff
or something?
Or something.
I did my thesis on classical
music in contemporary culture
so it's kind of up my alley.
What?
What?
I was just kidding.
I didn't really think
you had a PhD in it.
That's funny.
The thing that I don't get
is why do all the country songs
have to be about drinking
and jail,
betrayal and whoring around.
That was their reality, Nora.
That's what they knew
so they sang about it.
[music]
Nora : Okay, thank you.
Bye.
So they'll hold the car
at the rental place until five.
And then I'll be
out of your hair.
So, in the meantime, I will just
leave these here
in case you want to go over
the fine print.
Well, take your time.
I'm going to have me
a good snooze.
Unless you want
to come in with me.
No.
I'll sit right here.
Just because you ask good
questions and, um...
I'm a little worried that
I'm not at my most perceptive.
All right, I'll come in.
I just don't want
to get introduced.
As what, the father?
Guess what, Jamie?
You are the father.
Hey!
Look, Nora, I just don't
know what you want from me.
[whap!]
You know, there are a lot
of women who would throw
themselves...
Nora : Okay.
Okay, I'm sorry, Nora.
[slam]
[whack!]
[burble of water fountain]
Nora : It was nice meeting you.
Goodbye.
Thank you.
Bye.
[footsteps]
[music]
Get in an accident?
She's handicapped.
[music]
That's too bad.
She's a lovely woman.
She's very smart.
They have a lot of help.
He's a CEO.
They'd be excellent candidates.
Good.
Don't give me that attitude.
You know, the fact is
I'm in no position to be picky
without a paternity release.
Just drive me to the
car rental place.
You can...
[inhales deeply]
Oh, no...
Nora, what's going on?
I don't know.
It feels like, um...
maybe it's a contraction.
What?
I don't know.
Oh, man.
Is there a hospital around here?
You're kidding!
Tell me you're kidding, Nora!
There isn't a hospital
for a hundred miles!
Oh, man.
Hang on.
I know where to take you.
[music]
[music]
Nora : You're taking me
to a horse barn?
What the hell, Jamie!
Oh, god!
Oh, there's another one!
[music]
[music]
Wait here.
Steve! Steve!
You got to get out here
right away
My friend's in trouble.
Jamie, hi.
What's happening?
Yeah, she's having a baby
She's at 36 weeks.
36 weeks?
I knew I couldn't get her
all the way to county hospital
so I came here instead.
Okay.
Nora, this is Steve.
Hi.
Are you a doctor?
He's a vet.
A vet?
Jamie, I don't need a vet.
I'm also the father of two
who delivered them both.
Not to mention the almost
500 foals I brought
into this world.
May I?
Sure.
There's no distress.
Your baby sounds good.
Jamie tells me
you're at 36 weeks?
Yeah.
Yeah?
Have they lessened
since they started?
A little, maybe.
Okay.
You have Braxton Hicks.
It's really nothing
to worry about.
It's just your body getting
ready for the big race.
But you are going to have
to take it easy for the rest
of the day.
You're sure I'm not
in labour?
Yeah.
After 20 years of doing this,
I'm pretty sure.
Your baby's heart would be
beating a lot faster
if you were going
into actual labour.
But I tell you what.
Let's get you inside.
We'll hook you up to a monitor
and then you'll feel better,
all right?
Okay, thanks.
Woman : Look at you!
Hey, man, what's going on?
Hey, Gans, what's up?
He's a big hero around here.
He hasn't shown his face
for a long time.
You must mean
a great deal to him.
Oh, no.
We're just friends.
Well, friend, my wife Maggie
is going to bring some lunch
by here and then you can be
our house guest for the night.
No, no, I couldn't.
Yeah, you can.
We'd love it if you would.
Jamie, come on.
[music]
Go easy now.
[music]
Steve : Show's over.
Back to work.
Nora : Maggie, the place
is just magnificent.
I want to thank you and
Steve for taking care of us.
Oh, it's our pleasure.
It's just great to see Jamie
and meet who's in his life.
So how do you
all know each other?
Oh, well, um... Steve's Dad
worked for Jamie's father.
I mean everybody
did around here.
Thoroughbreds are our local
industry, breeding them,
racing them, selling them.
All done here
at the Keenland Estates.
I'm sorry, I don't understand.
Jamie is James Keen
around these parts.
You didn't know?
No.
So Derringer's a stage name.
It's total Nashville,
fantasy stuff.
And you're saying Jamie's
father owns this whole place?
He did.
He's passed, I'm afraid.
But Jamie's brothers
run the place now.
They're in Dubai as we speak.
You know those Arab sheiks
are just about our best
customers these days.
I had no idea Jamie was so...
Rich?
Yeah, well...
It's no bed of roses
for him in the big house.
Those boys never
really took to Jamie.
They used to rough
him up pretty bad.
Why?
Well, it's hard to say.
Maybe it's because
of their mother.
The story is, she was
donating big bucks to some
foster care center,
and she just fell in love
with him at first sight.
I think he was two or three
when she brought him home,
so she just...
Wait.
He was adopted?
Jamie, Jamie was adopted.
Oh, yes, I mean all you have
to do is just look at him.
The first two are these
gigantic red heads
and Jamie's dark and skinny,
and when his Mom died,
Steve's family just kind of
took him in.
Wow, you know a lot more
about him than I do.
Yeah, well, I'm kind of
the girl next door and
it's a pretty small town around
here if you know what I mean.
[music]
[music]
Maggie : I couldn't decide
which one to marry,
but Steve asked me first.
Jamie : You did not.
Steve : Yeah, I did.
I did.
You can see how much
they've matured.
I'm going to ride back
with Steve.
I'm going to give you two
some time on your own.
Be sure you bring her
back before it gets dark.
She needs her rest.
Steve : Don't listen to her.
[music]
I got to admit, I'm a little
confused, Jamie, about the whole
rodeo riding, hillbilly,
don't read music, thing.
I mean, you're basically
a blueblood.
I know, it's show business.
Jamie, your being adopted
and this whole
giving the baby away, I mean...
How could you
give your baby away?
Please don't start that.
I mean, really.
I can't believe how
cavalier you are about it.
What are you going to do?
Just hand your baby away
and never look back?
Is that really what
you're going to do?
Listen to me.
I have worked very hard
for the life that I have
and I'm not giving it up
because I...
because I made a mistake.
But look at you, Jamie.
Look at the wonderful life
that you were given.
Yeah, I know.
And I'd give it back
in a heartbeat
just to know my birth mother.
Well, I was raised by
a single mother, and she was...
she was tired, she was angry,
she was...
she was stingy,
she was resentful.
I like my sophisticated
grown-up life.
It's cost me a lot in every way.
Jamie do you honestly think that
raising a child with resentment
is better than finding
a home full of love?
Please, I understand
why this is so hard,
but I need your signature
to make things right
for this baby.
I don't know.
I mean I just don't know, Nora.
We should get going.
[music]
[piano music]
[applause]
All right.
That was the best I ever heard!
Great job.
All right you two,
it's bed time.
Yeah, time for bed.
Ready to go?
Yeah.
Let's go.
I hope it's a girl.
Good night, sweetie.
Steve : Come on, let's go.
Maggie : Now there are pillows
and blankets and everything
in the cabinet
in the spare room.
Thank you so much.
You have made me feel
so welcome.
Oh, that's 'cause you are.
[knock, knock, knock]
Come in.
[door squeaks open]
[door clunks closed]
I thought you might
like some tea.
I would.
Thank you.
[silence]
Elsie Dobie was the reason
I started to play the guitar.
I was a pretty messed up kid.
When I heard that sound,
I just wanted to imitate it.
You do remember that night.
I do.
When you came to the stage
door that night in the rain,
in my head I was so angry...
I mean for months
I couldn't get you
out of my head.
You acted like
you didn't know me.
I know.
It's because I've never been
with a woman like you, Nora.
You're so smart and beautiful.
And I figured for you it was
some lapse in judgment we had.
No, it wasn't.
When you came back,
about all you wanted
was my autograph,
and all I wanted was you.
Jamie...
I like being Jamie Derringer.
He's happy, successful.
People worship the ground
he walks on.
That ain't really me.
James Keen was a loser.
Yeah, he's got a granddaddy
who's rich enough to build
a concert hall.
And a daddy whose stud horses
won derbies, but...
in reality he's just
a dumb foster kid.
Not the kind of man
a woman like you would want.
Jamie.
Why didn't you say something?
Nora, tell me
we can be together.
Tell me I could be
this baby's father.
[music]
[phone rings...]
Claire.
Hi.
No, I'm awake.
No, no, I understand.
You needed time.
Well, things are a bit crazy.
Yeah.
Well, he actually...
He actually proposed last night.
Well, at least he says he wants
to be a father to the baby.
Yeah.
Kind of late in the game.
I don't know.
I mean that's what he says
he feels now, but who knows
what he'll feel in another
day or another week.
I don't know.
All I know is,
I came to get that signature
and I'm going to get it.
[music]
Jamie : So much for thinking
things through, huh, Nora?
What?
I heard you on the phone.
I can't believe you, that after
everything we've been through
all you still want
is my damn signature.
Why did you spring
this all on me now?
If you'd have been up front
with me from the start,
maybe things
would have been different.
Maybe we would have...
[door bangs open]
I'm sorry.
I'll come back later.
Jamie : No, that's all right.
I was just leaving.
[footsteps]
He gets like this sometimes.
I wouldn't worry about it.
Look, I don't know
what he's told you.
Nothing.
I don't know a single thing
about what is going on
but he's a good man, Nora.
Yeah.
Yeah, I'm sure he is.
But, um...
Could you just help me
call a cab please?
Yeah, sure.
Sure, I can do that.
[music]
[music]
[music]
Janet : That's the red velvet.
It's our biggest seller.
It's very good.
I'm just not hungry.
Thank you.
Mary : Well, maybe it's a bit
rich for your condition.
Listen I need to be honest.
I'm really sorry, but...
I don't have
the paternity release.
Oh, we don't care.
No, no, no, that's okay.
You really don't care?
No, I mean if the father
wants to be part
of this baby's life,
that is totally okay with us.
But, what if he...
You know the father right?
He's a decent guy?
Yeah.
Mary : Yeah, well, once he
sees how happy the baby is
with us, he's not going
to want to take it away.
We've been wanting a child
for a really long time.
And clearly we don't live
under the same rules
as everybody else, so...
Mary : So we just be honoured
to raise your child
and to share that with you.
Or the man who brought
this baby into our life.
Mary : Right.
That is really amazing,
and I think anybody would be
really lucky to have
you two as mothers.
Thank you.
So I think we should...
Um...
Are you okay?
I think my water just broke.
Oh...!
I'm sorry.
We'll go to the hospital.
[intermingled excited voices]
What do we do?
What do we do?
Get the keys.
Get the keys.
They're in the kitchen.
This is really embarrassing.
[intermingled excited voices]
No, no, please don't
feel embarrassed.
Omigawd...
Okay...
[intermingled excited voices]
[loud C & W music]
[loud C & W music]
[loud C & W music]
Manager : Hey, look, I'm going
to have to call you back.
Hey, how're you doing, man?
I knew you'd come!
Come on in.
Everybody's here.
Hey, everybody!
Would you stop.
I gotta...
Guess who?
Hey, aren't you glad to see me?
Yeah.
Hey, baby, how are you?
And, look at this, huh?
A bottle of single malt scotch
all the way from Inverness,
Scotland.
You are going to love that.
It is smoking.
It's smoking?
Yeah!
Come here, I got something
more smoking.
Oh, yeah?
Hey, Dixie.
Hey, come on, let's go.
Wake up.
Jamie's here.
Come on, there you go.
Hey, everybody!
Woman : Hey, girls,
this is Jamie Derringer.
Jamie : Hi, boys, how are you?
Hi, ladies.
And this is my sister, Tiffany.
She's been bugging me
to meet you.
I love you.
I have all your CDs.
Oh, hey, I wanted to mention...
Look, I just got off the phone
with Stockholm a couple
of hours ago and they met
all our demands, right?
So, starting next week,
we get ready for ten cities
in ten days.
Huh? What the hell you
talking about?
You said we had a month off!
Hey, well, no rest
for the wicked, man, right?
Whahoo-hoo!
Hey, who's got a tequila
for big daddy!
You wanna go upstairs?
I bet you like to ride bareback.
No, I don't.
Take that.
Manager : Hey, girls,
I'm coming in!
Yeah!
Whahoo!
[music]
[music]
[music]
[music]
[music]
Hi.
Yeah, it's me.
Guess who's having a baby?
I think I need you.
Can you come?
Now?
[music]
[phone rings]
Hola?
Jamie : Hello, Nora?
I want to speak to Nora.
Miss not here, baby coming.
Yeah, I'd like to know
what hospital you're at.
Hospital?
St. Vincent.
Yeah, uh-huh.
Okay, gracias.
[music]
Nurse : You did a great job.
Three pushes, nice and easy.
They should all go like that.
You feeling okay?
I'm fine.
Claire...
you came.
I'm sorry.
I didn't know who else to call.
I'm sorry.
I'm just glad I'm here.
You okay?
They took the baby.
They said with possible
adoptions it's better than way.
Less attachment.
Well, I guess I understand that.
They almost didn't let me in.
Family members only.
What did you say?
That I was your sister.
Come on.
[sobs]
[footsteps]
Excuse me, miss.
I'm looking for Nora Flannery.
She's in labour.
She'll be in Recovery
for a few hours.
Can I see her?
Are you family?
No, I've come up from...
Then you'll have to be patient.
Those ladies over there?
They're waiting, too.
You can wait with them.
[background hospital PA]
Janet : I know, I know.
She's great.
She's a classical music
critic from Philadelphia.
She's great and she's going
to let us have the baby.
Can you believe it?
Instant mommies.
We're excited.
What a thought!
Yeah, we're happy.
[music]
[music]
Did you see her?
Claire : Yeah.
[music]
Oh, god!
I don't know if I can do this.
Then don't.
Don't do it.
You're not a girl, Nora.
This isn't going to ruin
your life.
It isn't a mistake.
It's something amazing.
Don't you just want
to hold that child?
Yes.
But...
But that is all
you need to know.
[music]
Will you...
Will you help me?
Of course I will.
I'm your friend
and I'm your sister.
[music]
All right.
All right.
I need to talk
to Mary and Janet.
I need to talk
to them right away.
I'll go get them.
Okay.
Excuse me.
Could you please bring me...
my baby?
I'm not so sure
that's such a good idea.
The social worker's already
signing the release forms...
Please.
I want to see her.
I want to see my baby.
All right.
Oh, I almost forgot.
A man dropped this off.
He said you'd know
what it was about.
[music]
[music]
I'll be sad
to see you go, my man.
Thank you.
I appreciate you saying that.
No, everybody...
I mean the whole band
feels that way.
Well, I'm sure the new guy's
gonna work out just fine.
Oh, yeah, well...
Um...
Look...
What about a solo career?
I mean, you got a great voice,
you write great lyrics
and you got a huge following.
I mean if you want,
I can make a few phone calls
and we could take a few
meetings.
Thanks.
I appreciate you saying that
but I'm just going to call it
quits for now.
Go ahead, break my heart.
Break my heart, James.
Come here.
Come on, give us a hug, eh?
Hey, now you stay in touch.
I will, take care.
Ow, ow, ow, ow ow!
Yeah!
Love you, man!
[footsteps]
[sound of approaching car]
Mary : It's okay, I got it.
Ohhh...
Jamie : Here, let me...
Mary : Hey, uh...
Well, thank you.
Jamie : You're welcome.
You must be Mary and Janet.
Yeah, that's us.
I got your names
from the hospital.
I'm Jamie, the baby's father.
Mary : Oh, yeah...
Jamie the musician.
Yeah, I'm afraid so.
Look, I know I signed a release
and I really don't have
a leg to stand on here
but I'd like to see the baby.
But we never got the baby.
Janet : It was hard for us,
but I guess giving birth
changed everything for Nora.
Anyhow, she changed her mind.
Yeah, you didn't know?
No, no, I didn't.
So you didn't know that
she named her Jamie.
That's, uh...
I'm going to let you two
get back to work.
Thank you.
Sure.
Okay.
Janet : I know, but I feel
sorry for him.
Okay, you gotta tell him.
Jamie, you know what?
I think maybe you should
talk to Nora.
You hold on.
I'll get her address.
[music]
[C & W music's playing]
[baby gurgles]
[ding-dong]
Oh, no.
I've got to get the door,
sweetie.
[C & W music]
Come here.
Come here.
Get you dry.
Got to get the door.
[C & W radio music]
[door squeaks open]
Sorry, we were just
having a bath.
Well, it sounds like you
finally got some taste in music.
[C & W music]
Hello there, sweetheart.
[C & W music]
[C & W music]