Balloon Animal (2022) Movie Script

♪♪

[ Children laughing,

chattering distantly ]

♪♪

Hey, um, we're about to do

a magic show in the big top.

-So y-you guys should join us.

-Oh, okay.

-Cool. Thank you.

-Thank you.

-Okay, well, I hope you had fun.

-[man] Thank you.

[ Footsteps approach,

door opens ]

♪♪

[ Indistinct conversations ]

Poppy, I couldn't

get the cake,

because Dark wanted

to double up on beer.

[ Scoffs ] But the kids

love the cake.

[ Indistinct conversations

in distance ]

I need some help

getting this unicorn off.

-Thank you.

-There you go.

♪♪

[ Sighs ]

♪♪

Pretty late for the main event,

aren't you?

[ Scoffs ]

♪♪

[ Sighs ]

-[Dark] Poppy.

-[Poppy] What?

Where were you?

[Poppy] Running a little bit

late, sorry.

-No explanation?

-Shouldn't we just start?

[Dark] Why you don't have

the sparkly stuff on your eyes?

Oh, my God, are you seriously

complaining about

that right now?

It's the last show

of the season.

You know, I thought

you'd be a bit more...

Sorry. I'm sorry.

Did you get a chance to see

the sun setting over the top?

It looked beautiful,

like always.

Yeah, it did.

Okay. Okay, okay, okay.

Dad, let's go.

[Dark] Yeah.

Let's get started.

[ Both sigh ]

[ Light switch clanks,

lively music plays ]

♪♪

Thank you all for

coming here tonight!

We couldn't have asked

for anything more.

I am Dark Valentine!

And I'm Poppy Valentine!

Here to welcome you

to the Valentine's

Traveling Circus!

Who's ready to see some magic?

[ Shouts ]

[ Applause ]

-Wow!

-[Dark] That's what

I'm talking about.

That's magic.

-Hey, Mr. Valentine?

-[Dark] Yes?

-What is this?

-This?

Why, this is the most dangerous

piece of equipment.

Only the greatest of magicians

know of it secrets.

Ooh!

That being said...

you shouldn't be in there.

But I think I'm

a pretty great magician.

Ho-ho!

We'll see about that!

Who is the greatest magician?

[ Vocalizing ]

[Poppy] Hey,

Mr. Valentine?

Yes?

[Poppy] I'm ready!

Let's open it!

Boom!

Oh, Poppy!

I think this makes me a

pretty great magician, don't

you?

I don't know about that.

Not at all.

Did any of you young'uns

happen to see where

Poppy's missing parts went?

Hmm?

Oh, this looks very dangerous.

[ Somber music plays ]

[ Distantly ] No, what do we do?

What do we do?

[ Dark continues,

muffled ]

♪♪

[Dark] That's it.

[ Sighs ]

Phew! That was...

Dad.

We're definitely close

to 5,000 shows together.

-Sounds about right.

-[Dark] Too bad those fliers

didn't do much,

though, did they?

You'd think they would have

much fun, our circuses,

people would show up.

[ Sighing heavily ]

Oh, fuck.

It's okay.

Don't worry about it.

-It happens sometimes.

-[Dark] 40 people to fill out

a space that's

supposed to sit 200.

-Making it look like --

-[Poppy] I know.

I know. I know.

[ Sighs ]

You know, we've been dealing

with shit numbers like this...

the last decade.

We should definitely spice

things up for next season.

-Like a new routine?

-[Dark] No, no, not that.

No, definitely not. No.

But maybe...

some different costumes?

Who doesn't like magic?

[ Sighs ]

Oh, I, uh -- I wanted to tell

you that Bobby told me

that he couldn't get

the giant cake

for the end-of-the-season party.

-No cake?

-[Poppy] No.

Well, the kids love the cake.

[Poppy] I know.

That's what I said.

-[Dark] Ah, what a shame.

-[Poppy] Yeah.

So I was thinking we could

give him some extra cash.

and he could just

go pick one up --

[Dark] Whoa, whoa, whoa.

Wait a minute, here.

Hold on, hold on.

But he did get enough

of the food and beer,

though, for everyone?

-Yeah, I mean, but --

-[Dark] That's good enough.

Yeah, no, that's...

I just...

I just need to have some fun.

You know, it lift

everyone's spirits.

Kids? [ Scoffs ]

[ Laughs ]

The kids always have fun.

One last thing -- I let

everyone off early tonight

-to go to the party.

-Yeah.

-I'll have some things

to take care of here.

-Yeah.

Maybe you could

just check around

[echoing] and, uh,

lock up too, ah?

[ Sounds distorting ]

[ Snaps fingers ]

Beautiful.

[ Indistinct conversations ]

Hey, Dark.

Can I grab you a second?

-Hang on.

-Hey, Jessi Dean.

-How's the setting up going?

-[Jessi] Great!

-Got the crew working on it.

-[Dark] Oh, great.

It'll be done soon enough.

But first...

-[Dark] Uh-oh.

-From us to you.

-Especially me.

-[Dark] What -- What is it?

Open it.

Huh!

[Jessi] I -- I mean, we wanted

to do something special for you

since you've been

working so hard for us

-these last few months.

-Whew!

Wow. Are you trying

to recruit me?

Well, I do think that

glittery trapeze look

beats the stern

magic look any day.

-Well, I...

[Jessi] See?

Look at you.

-It's wonderful.

-[ Chuckles ]

[Jessi] You like it?

It's great.

[ Clears throat ]

Well, thank you.

You're welcome.

Have a good night.

Or, I guess I'll see you

in a little bit.

Yes, I'll see you.

Thank you.

[ Sighs ]

[ Music playing,

people cheer in distance ]

♪♪

I don't think we're doing

our own thing this time.

Jessi Dean is pretty set

on helping Dark prepare

and set up for

next season.

I'm assuming we're

just gonna follow him

and hang around there.

Speaking of which, Poppy,

do you know where?

-[Poppy] No, I don't.

-Wait, so is your mom

and Dark...

Are they, like, a thing now?

I'm sure she likes

to think they are.

They do spend a lot

of time together.

Well, she's clingy like that.

-Yeah, with everyone except you.

-[Lala] Can you not?

Maybe there's something

going on, right?

Poppy, what do you think?

I sincerely doubt it.

Normally, when you spend

a lot of time with someone,

safe to assume that, you know...

Shut up.

Stop talking to

each other like that.

Listen, Sadie, if Jessi

Dean or Dark ever confide in us

about their personal love lives,

we'll be sure to let you know.

Thank you.

Anyway, what about you?

What about me?

[Lala] What's your

off-season look like?

Oh, yeah.

My parents are taking me

to go see the Cirque du Soleil.

Wow. From one circus to another.

[Sadie] That's in D.C.

[Lala] It's amazing

you're still a virgin.

-What?

-D.C.?

Mm-hmm.

-That's nice.

-Yeah, I think it'll be fun.

-Dude!

-Wha-- Ow! What?

Are you really that dense?

Poppy's mom peaced out

when we were in D.C.

I mean, I doubt she

really cares, but still.

Do you think I hurt her

feelings? Was that...?

[Lala] No, I'm sure

it's fine. Shh!

So, I still have

a couple things to do,

so you guys should

just go on ahead.

-[Lala] Want us to do anything?

-[Sadie] Are you sure?

Yeah, I'll just see you

when I'm there.

Why don't you just come now?

I said I will when I'm done.

That doesn't really

answer my question.

Why not now?

Because, Lala, if I don't

do it now, then who will?

Oh, I don't know...

Your dad, maybe?

[ Indistinct shouting

in distance ]

[ People cheering in distance ]

[ Poppy sighs ]

[ Lock clinking ]

♪♪

[ Exhales deeply ]

♪♪

♪ I've been looking

for a reason ♪

♪ To look the other way ♪

♪ Been waiting here forever ♪

♪ It's getting so old,

it's getting late ♪

♪♪

♪ Even in the snowlight

I can see ♪

♪ That this habit's

not healthy ♪

[Dark] You keep

disappearing on me.

Mm, I was just finishing up

what you asked me to do earlier.

At the Ferris wheel?

♪♪

Well, you missed out.

Looks like I can still

throw a hell of a party.

Even at 30.

Oh, so you're not 57?

Who said that?

♪♪

Cheers.

To another successful season.

Cheers.

♪♪

[ Sighs ]

[Poppy] Hey.

-It's okay.

-Where is she, then?

I don't know.

Is she okay?

I like to think so.

How do you know, though?

I mean...

She chose to leave,

so she must have had

a plan or something.

[ Sighs ]

That makes it worse.

-[Bobby] Oh, Dark.

-[Dark] Hey, hey!

[Bobby] Glad you're still here.

I was wondering if anybody got

any gas for the genny today.

It's been like three weeks

since me and the Richardsons

have had heat

and cooking gas.

I thought we took care

of it last week.

No, we used the money set aside

for it on the party tonight.

[ Dark sighs ]

Fucking hell.

Bobby, why didn't you say

anything earlier? Come on.

Everybody's been busy

wrapping up the season,

-and I didn't want to --

-[Dark] No. It's nonsense.

Poppy, you're the only one

who hasn't been drinking, so...

I know, but I mean,

it's kind of late.

[Dark] No, it's okay.

Take the truck, alright?

Here's a phone.

Call Bobby if

something goes wrong.

-[Bobby] Are you sure?

-[Dark] Yeah. And, uh...

And maybe get some of those, uh,

large industrial trash bags,

because the barrels

are spilling over.

[ Engine sputtering ]

You'll be okay.

[ Bell jingles ]

Hi, can I have $30

on one, please?

Thank you.

[ Bell jingles, door closes ]

I like your car.

Sorry. That was, uh...

I'm not trying to,

uh, bother you.

I, um...

Oh, my God.

I, uh...

English!

I don't recognize you.

Not to yell at you. Um...

This is kind of a small town,

and everyone knows everyone.

And you're definitely new.

I live a little bit

further into town.

In case you

were wondering.

But was out for

a late-night drive.

I've been dealing with

insomnia lately, which you --

you -- you definitely

don't care about.

That is to say,

I-I haven't been seeing

much activity around midnight.

And, uh, this --

this is a first.

And will definitely

be a last. Um...

I am so sorry to bother you.

You just...

I'll, uh...

Yeah.

Hey! Wait.

Are you walking?

Are you mute or something?

That's incredibly

rude of you to say.

What if I was?

[Drew] She speaks.

-How far are you walking?

-Excuse me?

Like, where did you break down

or run out of gas?

I didn't break down anywhere.

I walked here just fine,

and I'll walk back just fine.

[Drew] Okay.

So not too far, then.

What do you want?

To help.

Honest.

Just that.

I know those are heavy.

And I'm quite the...

strong man, so...

And I have a car.

♪♪

[Drew] Where am I

going, exactly?

[Poppy] Just keep

going straight.

What brings you to town?

I work at the circus.

And what do you do there?

I make balloon animals.

Sometimes I do magic.

I took a couple classes

at the local theater here

when I was a kid.

And one of them was --

was a magic class.

So, you know, basically --

You're a magician now?

[Drew] You can call me

the Incredible Drewdini.

Alright, Drewdini, I'll

let you know if we're ever

hiring.

And who would I be having

that interview with?

Your name is...?

Poppy.

[Drew] Poppy.

There used to be a circus

that would come here in

the spring every so often

when I was growing up.

Was there a big

black-and-white top?

[Drew] Is that

the big tent thing?

Yeah.

[Drew] I think so, yeah.

It was probably

this circus, then.

I was something Traveling --

The Valentine's

Traveling Circus.

[Drew] You've heard of it?

[ Chuckles ]

Yeah, that's us.

-[Drew] That's you?

-Mm-hmm.

[Drew] So you come

through this area like...

I think this is our sixth time.

Yet this is the first time

we've ever seen each other.

Yeah, well, we have your

insomnia to thank for that.

You know, getting gas

at midnight and all.

Just take a left at the light.

[ Straining ] And...

here you are, my lady.

I-I can, uh...

No, it's fine. I got it.

-Yeah.

-Thanks, though.

Mm-hmm.

So, thanks for the ride.

[Drew] Yeah.

[ Wheels rumbling ]

Hey, uh...

Wait a minute.

Um...

Can I, uh...

Can I --

Can I have your number?

Actually, uh...

before you answer that...

I...

have a piece of paper...

I have a --

I have a receipt

-that you can use.

-[Drew] Yeah, th-that works.

Here is, uh... my number.

You know, ball's in your court.

In case you, um,

want to explore town

or, you know, get coffee

or -- or dinner...

or, um... go bowling.

Yeah, if that -- if that

sounds like some--

-[Poppy] I could bowl.

-Yeah?

[Poppy] Sometimes.

Okay.

Well, uh, let me know.

Okay.

Okay. Thank you.

Oh, yeah. Right.

-It's kind of a --

-I know. I know.

I have it.

Thank you.

Uh, I'm a --

I'm a strong woman, so...

[ Chuckles ] Right.

Have a -- have...

Have a good night.

Good night.

[ Engine starts ]

♪♪

[ Indistinct conversations

in distance ]

[woman] When did this happen?

This sucks.

[Sadie] Poppy!

Hey, what's going on?

What happened?

-Isn't it obvious?

-Someone spray-painted

-all over --

-Wait, where's my dad?

I think he's with my mom.

Who would do this?

Hell if I know.

Kids, probably.

-Okay, but why?

-Hey, just give me a second.

I don't know, 'cause there's

nothing better to do?

[Poppy] Dad.

When you get back

last night, huh?

I-I don't know.

What do you mean?

What do you mean you don't know?

I didn't look at a clock

or something.

-I guess it was late.

-Did you see anything?

-[Poppy] No, no. No, not at all.

-[Dark] Anyone? Nobody?

-[Dark] Did you lock up?

-[Poppy] I walked

to the gas station,

I got the gas, then I came

straight back, like you said.

And you locked up, right?

Right?

-I...

-Jesus.

They would have messed it up

regardless

of whether I put

the lock back or not.

They wanted to do this.

They would have broken in.

Scrub off as much as possible,

so at least we could salvage it

for next season.

-By myself?

-What?

Do you expect

someone else to join you?

Of course by yourself.

Get to work.

[ Mockingly ] "By myself."

-[Sadie] Pops!

-Hey.

-Brought you some water.

-And food.

-[Poppy] Thank you.

-[Sadie] Here you go.

-I think it's ham.

-[Poppy] Ham?

-Yeah.

-No turkey?

No, I don't know

who ate all of it.

So, how you doing?

-Good. It's hot.

-Yeah.

I'd help you if Jessi Dean

wasn't so set on me

-wrangling all of the ropes.

-Same here.

I still have to do

inventory and package everything

up.

This is great.

Thanks, guys.

[Sadie] Yeah.

[ Footsteps approaching ]

Poppy, can you do a crocodile

for me real quick?

-Right now?

-Just, please, really quick.

Poppy.

Mm. I got it.

I got a girl on there waiting.

Yeah, well, I'm going

as fast as I can.

Take it easy. It's okay.

[Poppy] Well, you said

right now, so...

[ Air hissing ]

[Dark] You're doing great.

Wow. That was fast.

Thank you.

[ Sighs ]

Thanks.

Was that an alligator?

Crocodile.

Mm.

♪♪

[Dark] So, the crocodile

used his big mouth to munch

on the small elephant's

short snout.

And he pulls the trunk so hard

that the small elephant

was scared that he's gonna just

pull his trunk right out.

But this crocodiles was pulling

and pulling and pulling.

He stretched this small

elephant's trunk so much,

when the crocodile let go,

the trunk was long.

The little elephant didn't know

what to do with it.

-[ Laughs ]

-So he was sad.

But then all of

the other elephants saw

the small elephant's long trunk

and they told him

how beautiful he was.

He was so happy,

but more importantly,

that's how all the elephants

got their long and

gorgeous trunks.

[ Trumpets ]

-You like the story?

-[girl] Yeah.

Oh, fuck.

♪♪

[ Sighs ]

[ Door opens, closes ]

Oh, you're here.

I went to check

on the booth for you.

They're spotless.

Truly, thank you.

Thank you.

Who made that?

One of the kids.

-It's cute.

-[Dark] It is.

Well, since you passed the age

of giving your dad

little drawings,

I've got to get my fix

from somewhere.

[ Dark chuckles ]

-Poppy.

-What?

What do you think of us

spending more time together, mm?

We already work together.

[Dark] I'm not

saying this right.

I need an extra pair of hands

helping me around here.

But Bobby already

helps you with stuff.

[Dark] Yeah, but, you know,

he's just like me.

We're just both hitting that age

that things are not as easy

as they used to be,

but having you help us out

will be exactly

what this place needs.

Don't you think so?

So, you want me to do

what you and Bobby do?

[Dark] Well, yes and no.

I'm thinking you could be

an assistant manager

of the Valentine's

Traveling Circus, ah?

Ah?

-Pretty flashy for a title.

-Okay, fine. Sure.

But what does that entail?

Like, what -- what

would I be doing?

General management things.

You know, vendor bookings

and double-checking the profits

-against the expenses --

-Okay, but who -- who would do

the balloon animals?

What about the balloon animals?

Balloon animals,

they're not going away.

Now you just step back.

-Let one of the kids --

-The kids?

[Dark] They were in love with

the crocodile you made.

The kids are small.

They're like seven.

Their hands aren't big enough

to tie the balloon.

But you were the same age

when you started, remember?

No, Dad, that's not the same.

Mom was helping me,

so it's -- it's different.

[ Chuckling ] Poppy, come on.

It's going to be great.

Trust me.

It's going to be great.

I love you.

[ Sighs ]

Can -- Can I get a cigarette?

[ Chuckles ]

Seriously?

Yeah, I've smoked before.

I'm basically an adult.

Alright, big shot.

Let's go. Light it up.

[Sadie] Should you

really be giving Beau

that cigarette, Lala?

[Lala] He keeps staring at it

in my mouth, so...

-Why not?

-He's like 14.

I'm literally right here,

and I'm for sure old enough.

[Sadie] Hey, Poppy.

-Hi.

-Hi, Poppy.

Hi, Beau.

I need to talk

to Sadie and Lala.

Alone.

[Beau] I don't have to do

what you tell me to do.

-[Poppy] Beat it, Beau.

-[Beau] No!

Listen, if you want to keep

smoking my cigarettes

without your mommy

finding out,

-I'd do what she says.

-We can smoke together?

[Poppy] Oh, my God.

[Lala] Get out of here, Beau.

Thank you.

He's so obsessed with you.

You guys didn't need

to talk to him like that.

Oh, my God. He'll be fine.

[ Sighs ]

So? What is it?

Okay, I have got like

50 bucks in my pocket,

-and I want fries and alcohol.

-Oh, shit.

-Where did you get that?

-It doesn't matter, but, um,

I think we can go tonight

if you guys are down.

Hell yeah.

-Sadie?

-[Lala] Come on.

Yes. Tonight, tonight.

Fine.

Ooh, she's in!

-She wants to go out!

-[Lala] We're going out!

-She wants to go out!

-We're going out!

[ Drumming hands ]

We're gonna party!

Whoo!

Maybe they'll have food.

-I doubt it.

-Okay.

How much longer are we just

gonna stare at it? Let's go.

♪♪

-[Sadie] So, what do we do?

-This looks pretty lame.

Okay, it's a weekday

in a small town.

So, we should leave.

No, let's order a drink.

-Hi. Hello.

-[bartender] Hey.

Can we get three

beers, please?

No, you got to

be specific.

Can we get three IPAs?

-[bartender] Is draft okay?

-Yeah.

-[bartender] Cool.

-Perfect.

Thank you.

It's an acquired taste,

but I'm sure you guys

will get used to it.

Well, maybe just me

and Poppy Will.

Ha, ha, ha. Very funny.

Honestly, Poppy,

this place is kind of creepy.

You've been here for 2 minutes.

Relax.

-We should dance.

-Yes.

Um, don't you think

the people here are kinda --

Are you gonna complain

the whole night?

-I'm just saying --

-Well, stop.

Okay, look, there are literally

like four people here.

It's not a big deal.

Just try to have some fun.

Here they come!

Okay.

-Baby's first beer.

-Thank you.

-Cheers.

♪♪

Well?

Okay, it's not that bad.

And what does it taste like?

Um...

Kind of taste like

a strong ginger ale.

Perfect. She loves it.

-Yeah, it's not that bad.

-Drink some more.

This place is still

kind of creepy, though.

-How long are we staying here?

-Oh, my God. Shut up.

It's a valid question. We

have stuff to do at the circus.

Okay, I can't hear you

over how lame you are.

-[Sadie] Ugh!

-[Lala] You gotta dance.

[Sadie] Ha-ha. So mature.

Okay, no, I'm serious.

Spin, spin, spin, spin.

[ upbeat music plays ]

♪♪

-[Sadie] N-No.

-[Poppy] Yes.

-You promised me french fries.

-Food, food, food.

-Yes, we'll -- we'll

get french fries.

-We'll get fries.

Where?

-I don't know, you have to --

-We'll find somewhere.

-Find a place.

-Okay.

But I'm not going back

until you get me

my french fries.

[ Retching ]

[ Sighs ]

Now what?

Food?

Food.

[Lala] I'm so happy

you decided to come out.

[Sadie] Yeah, me too.

These fries were worth it.

[Lala] Are you feeling better?

-[Sadie] Mm, mm-hmm.

-This is exactly what I needed.

I know, these fries are bomb.

Yum. I miss this.

Our sleepovers.

Feels a little

different, though.

[Sadie] Yeah, a little.

I mean, yeah,

we're adults now.

Okay, but, like,

what does that even mean?

[Lala] It means we just

stayed up all night,

but still have to be up

in three hours to continue

packing up the circus stuff.

Ugh, you're right.

But this was still fun, though.

Also means you're probably

gonna have a hangover.

-Ugh.

-[ Chuckles ]

-Everything okay?

-Hmm?

You zoned out for a bit.

Oh, sorry.

[Sadie] Is something up?

I mean, obviously.

Look at her.

C'mon, spill.

It's nothing. Um...

My dad just wants to make me

assistant manager, so...

How fun!

Assistant manager!

I'm glad you're

excited about it,

but I'm not exactly

jumping for joy.

So, I'm sorry, it sounds

like he's trying

to bum the circus off to you.

Okay. Sorry.

[Sadie] I mean, that makes

the most sense, though, right?

You're his daughter, and

the only Valentine

besides him still at the circus

who's even capable

of running something like this.

I mean, he probably once

planned on having you

or your mom take over at some --

I mean, of course he wants

you large and in charge.

Haven't you guys talked

about it before?

No, we don't really talk

about... stuff, you know,

and assistant manager is, like,

hardly large and

in charge, but...

I don't know, yeah, I guess

I just thought it was weird

how he sprung it on me,

you know,

and just kind of expected me

to be as excited as he was,

no questions asked.

Well, whether or not you end up

running the whole place or not,

I hope fries and alcohol helped.

Yeah, it kind of did.

-Oh, we should go.

-Mm.

[ Bell jingles ]

[Lala] Poppy?

I know him.

[Sadie] You know him?

Hey, it's you.

I met Drew --

sometimes Drewdini...

-Sometimes.

-I met him the other night

when I went to get gas

for the trailers.

-[girl] We'll be over there.

More insomnia?

-Yeah, a little bit.

-[Poppy] Hmm.

Um, we all work at

the Desert Inn Bar and Grill.

But tonight was actually our

last night shift for a while.

How come?

If you don't mind me asking.

Um, this area just

kind of shuts down

once the snowbirds leave.

Hours get cut in half.

It's super barren.

Practically a ghost town.

Crazy. We're in our

off-season now, too.

What is that, like,

vacation for you guys?

Or shore leave, or...?

Sorry, I don't --

I don't know the lingo.

No, it's okay. Um...

We basically pack up the circus

and wait for the next

season to start.

Cool. Good to know.

Well, we should probably go.

It was great seeing you again.

Hold that thought.

I didn't see your trademark

red wagon out front.

Oh, I, uh -- I left it at home.

Yeah? Did you upgrade?

No, we -- we walked.

Again with the walking.

You guys want a ride?

[Poppy] "Hot Wheels"?

[Drew] It's the local

skating rink.

It's the most poppin'

place to be.

-Is it?

-[Drew] Yeah.

I took all my dates there

in seventh grade.

Held their hands when

the disco ball came down.

-Ohh!

-[Drew] The ambiance is amazing.

A man of romance.

[Drew] Fun fact

about Hot Wheels,

to sell you further...

-I'm an athlete.

-[ Laughs ] Are you?

The skating rink

has limbo night,

which I've won every week

for three consecutive years.

Wait, so does that make

you the roller limbo champion?

I don't want to brag, but...

You know, I've actually

never skated before.

-What? That can't stand.

-[ Poppy chuckles ]

Um, we should go sometime.

Yeah, maybe.

Ouch.

You guys are leaving town

soon, I'm assuming.

Uh, yeah, probably.

I was thinking of having

a, uh, little get-together

at my place this weekend,

probably Saturday,

i-if you want to come.

I-I live just a couple streets

over from that diner back there.

[Poppy] Uh, I'll see

you guys tomorrow, okay?

-[Sadie] Okay. Night-night!

-[Lala] Good night.

[Drew] Your friends are nice.

[Poppy] Aren't they?

Um... do you have a moment?

[Drew] Yeah, I don't --

I don't see why not.

[Poppy] Alright.

Come with me.

[Drew] Wait, is this a --

is this a tow zone?

[Poppy] No, you're fine.

-[Drew] You know what? Okay.

Wouldn't matter if it was.

Uh...

Just...

[ Car door closes ]

[ Whispering

] You can sit.

[Drew] I thought I'd wait.

-Chivalry.

-Yeah.

-It's not dead.

[ Chuckles ]

No, it's not.

Um...

So, you know how I told you

the other day that...

-[Drew] Bum-bum!

-...I make balloon animals?

-Yeah.

-Okay, so...

My secret repertoire

of what I make.

-Pick something. Anything.

-Like, right -- right now?

Yeah.

And if you don't see

anything that you like,

you can test it out

and come up with something

and I'll make it.

I don't do well under pressure.

Come on. Quick.

-It's late. Come on, come on.

-I don't do well under pressure.

Anything -- first thing

that comes to your mind.

-Okay, um...

-Anything.

K-Koala?

-Is there a koala in here?

-That...

-A koala?

-Yeah.

I can, you know, literally

do pretty much anything.

Like, I'm here to...

show off a little.

Yeah, but they're like

the teddy bears of the trees.

Teddy bears of the trees?

Okay, let's do it.

I have made...

I can be a testament

to your skill.

Oh, okay.

Well, prepare to be amazed.

[Drew] I don't understand how

you're even capable of doing

this in the first place.

When did you start learning?

[Poppy] Um, when I was seven.

My mom taught me, so...

This is what I do full time

here at the circus

when I'm not doing magic,

which you are a professional at.

[Drew] Well, I'm a semi --

well, we'll say semi-pro.

-[Poppy] Shh!

-[Drew] I'm sorry about that.

[ Voices fade, conversation

continues indistinctly ]

♪♪

[Poppy] I think

you're gonna like this.

I think it's my best work.

[Drew] Yeah? High praise.

So, uh...

what do you think?

-It's adorable.

-Yeah?

-Yeah.

-Thank you so much for...

driving me home, like,

so many times.

-I really appreciate it.

-Absolutely.

Thank you for, uh...

for this.

Um...

I hope to see you

at the, um -- at the --

the -- the party thing

on Saturday.

Yeah, me too.

I don't think

I gave you my address.

-No, I, uh --

I don't think you did.

I live two streets over

from that diner.

It's 1390 Sycamore Drive.

-1390 Sycamore Drive.

-[Drew] Yeah.

[Poppy] Got it.

♪♪

[ Utensils clinking ]

[ Objects rustling ]

[ Dark humming,

whistling ]

[ Dark sighs ]

[Dark] Mm.

You're awake.

-What's this?

-There is a decent-sized

grapefruit tree

behind the big top.

It's just a lone tree,

but I thought

-I'd bring you back one.

-Is it any good?

[ Dark chuckles ]

It's fruit.

Of course it's good.

Try it.

Huh? Huh?

Oh, Dad.

-No, that's disgusting.

-It's no good?

No, it's so sour. Ugh!

-[Dark] What?

-[Poppy] Try it.

[ Slurps ]

-Oy!

-[ Poppy laughs ]

-Hoo-hoo-hoo!

-[Poppy] It's gross.

-Oh, I see what you mean. Sour.

-Sour, yeah. Ugh.

[Dark] What about we do

a little experiment?

[Poppy] Oh, my God.

[Laughing] Okay.

[Dark] I think this

is gonna taste good.

-[Poppy] Alright.

-[Dark] Now try it.

Okay. Moment of truth.

Here we go.

-[Dark] Huh?

That tastes like nothing.

-I'm not into it.

-You-- You're hard to please.

Ahh.

Alright. Costumes.

So, when I talked it over

with Jessi Dean,

she seemed more or less on

board with how the trapeze girls

could update those

bodysuit things.

She was all for getting rid

of tours, as well.

She also brought up

changing the final act,

but I think it's super solid.

Your grandmother actually came

up with a lot of that routine.

So I think it -- it only

makes sense to keep it.

I mean, I guess.

But wouldn't changing that

jazz up next season

like you want?

Well, maybe they can

upgrade or refine the opening

act.

What I couldn't believe it,

though, surprisingly,

she suggested that

we change up our routine,

which is just ridiculous.

I mean, it's outdated, though,

and, like, more for little kids.

Shouldn't we be trying

to appeal to more people?

These acts have been

the forefront of our

circus for generations.

To change our act would be --

it would be a betrayal.

Okay, I think that's,

like, a little dramatic.

[Dark] Dramatic?

Not dramatic.

No, no. I'm not about

to change the magic show

that made this circus

what it is today.

Okay, I really don't think

that's saying much, though,

because the circus

is barely making

enough money to stay afloat.

It's not my fault that circus

isn't bringing as many people

as it used to.

Well, times have changed.

Okay, so then shouldn't the

circus change with the times?

[ Dark sighs ]

How should I say? Uh...

People come to the circus

to escape the times.

If we modernize, it's --

Okay, look, you're talking

as if working harder

to improve the circus

would ruin it somehow.

Okay, we should be trying

to draw the crowds in.

People don't want to see

the same shit every year --

That's exactly the reason

they come back!

Exactly the reason.

I'm gonna grab a drink.

Finish up. Alright?

Mm-hmm.

[Dark] Hey, Bobby!

[ Pump hissing ]

[ Laughter in distance ]

♪♪

[Dark]

[Distantly] Poppy!

♪♪

[ Sighing ]

[ Groans ]

Poppy, I'm getting a call from

a lot outside of New Orleans

that is looking

to have us next season.

Poppy!

Alright, the grapefruit

is ready!

Poppy!

Poppy?

[ Footsteps approaching ]

Oh, you're...

You're awake.

I was, um...

I woke up early and I --

I took a walk, so...

[ Sighs ] It was just

an early morning walk.

Sorry.

If it was just a walk,

what are you sorry for?

Hmm? You're lying.

Look at you.

You've been out all night.

Look at you.

It was literally

just a walk.

Where? Were you running

around with someone?

Oh, my God.

-Don't overthink it.

-How can I not? I'm your...

You are my child.

When I wake up and

you're not there,

do you understand all

the fucking things

-running through my --

-Literally just wanted

some time to myself.

-That's it.

-[Dark] No.

You're supposed

to be here.

Why do I have to be here

all the time?

You know, what is

this actually about?

You don't like that

I take some time to myself

-every once in a while?

-[ Dark scoffs ]

I am 24, you know.

If I want to take a walk,

I can take a walk.

It's more than that.

I am your...

I am your father,

and I'm your boss,

and I expect you --

Well, you're not doing

a good job at either.

So now what?

[ Sighs ]

Pardon me for that.

You...

Fine, just go

for your walks.

Go, go! Enjoy it!

But I expect for you to be here

at least when

you're supposed to be.

And if you think

you're such an adult,

there are more responsibilities,

whether you

like it or not!

You know, people --

not only me -- expect you

to pull your weight here

and be fucking here.

Eat your grapefruit.

There's sugar on this.

It's good for you!

Take it!

[ Dish clatters, door slams ]

[ Sighs heavily ]

♪♪

Poppy!

-Whoa!

-Hey.

Hi. This is nice.

Join me.

Mm.

You good?

Yeah, I've just been super busy

packing everything up, you know?

Yeah, I get it.

And I don't want to do it.

[ Chuckles ]

I wouldn't either.

Why don't you just take a break?

I don't think that's an option.

It would be stupid

if it wasn't.

Okay, thanks, Lala.

That's super helpful.

Okay, sorry I'm not

a licensed therapist.

Okay. What is it?

I just don't want

to do it anymore.

Poppy, you're being super vague.

Like, the circus, okay?

I don't want to run it.

Okay.

Well, I'm sure

Dark would understand

if you were just

honest with him.

It's his job as a dad.

So just... do that.

What if I don't want

to come back next season?

-Oh, Poppy, you're here.

Jessi Dean.

What is it, Mom?

Just wanted to see

when you're gonna come

help us load

up the trucks.

Told you I was taking

a smoke break.

[Jessi] Here, let me have some.

Give it to me.

Ugh, shit.

Are you serious, Mom?

[Jessi] Smoke break's over.

Let's go. Come on, move!

-[Lala] Sorry, Poppy.

-Yeah.

-[Jessi] Today!

-[Lala] Coming!

See you later.

[ Door opens, closes ]

[ Sighs ]

[Dark] How does New Orleans

sound to you?

Mm. Fine.

Ah.

The lot down there is charging

me an arm and a leg, but...

And it's right on

the Mississippi, so...

I think it'd be worth it.

The circus lights

by the river, you know?

[ Indistinct conversation

in distance ]

Oh, hey.

Sorry about yesterday.

Do you know what my dad

and your mom are talking about?

What?

Oh, no. I didn't even know

they were talking.

Probably nothing, though.

Why? What's up?

Nothing.

You're probably right.

-Wait, Poppy.

-[Poppy] What is it?

Did you really mean

what you said yesterday?

-What are you talking about?

-[Lala] Oh, come on.

It's not like I didn't hear you.

You're thinking of not

coming back next season?

I don't really know right now.

I mean, there's no

judgment or anything.

I'm just trying to understand.

Okay, well, I said I don't know.

Okay, well, saying

"I don't know"

is basically a cruel way

of beating around the bush.

Okay, well, what do

you want me to say?

-[Lala] The truth.

-Okay, well, the truth is

that I just said

that I don't know,

so stop asking about it.

And, um...

can you not tell

Sadie about this?

-About you leaving?

-About any of it.

-Yeah, sure.

-Thanks.

And, um...

don't forget

about tonight.

-Tonight?

-Drew's party.

-Oh, we're going to that?

-Yeah, why not? Right?

Right.

-[Lala] Hey.

-Hey.

[Lala] Do you think

Sadie's coming?

Here she is.

Well, I'll be!

She showed up.

Follow me.

Is anyone gonna tell me

what's going on?

What do you need to show me?

-Shh!

-Poppy?

Can you just

relax, please?

Who's that?

Poppy's obviously got a plan.

Just go with it.

Drew invited us to

a get-together tonight.

When did we decide

we were going to that?

Who cares? You showed up.

So we're going now.

Um, how about the fact that

I'm literally in pajamas?

-There. Come on.

-It sounded small.

There's probably not gonna be

a lot of people there.

So you have nothing

to worry about.

Okay, says the girl

who's wearing actual clothing.

[ Sighs ]

[driver] Hey, ladies.

Where you headed?

You could have at least

brought me something to wear.

This is his place?

Looks like it.

Come on.

[ Doorbell rings ]

You're here!

-Hi.

-We're here.

[Drew] Come on in.

Hey.

You weren't kidding when

you said this was a small thing.

Um, Poppy, I kind of

have to pee.

-What?

-Oh, bathroom's down the hall.

-Great. Thanks.

-Mm-hmm.

-Come with me.

Do you want a drink?

Yes. What do you have?

Cool. Uh, beer or... beer.

Which one would you like?

Uh, I think I will

go with the beer.

[Drew] Okay.

Here you go.

-Thank you.

-Mm-hmm.

-Cheers.

-[Drew] Cheers.

So, you live here

by yourself, then?

Yeah.

I moved in like a month ago.

Hence boxes.

I'm not building a fort.

It's really nice,

and I am super jealous.

Want a tour?

I would love a tour.

[Drew] Okay. Come on.

Wait, Lala, is Poppy okay?

We just haven't talked

much lately, and she's...

-She just seems like --

-She's...

She's totally fine.

Are you sure?

I wouldn't lie to you.

-Yeah?

-Yeah.

-Okay. Come on, let's go.

-Okay.

Let's go.

It seems like you're

a baseball champion.

More like baseball

participant, but...

-I see.

-Champion has a nice ring to it.

So let's go with that.

Let's -- Let's do that.

So, it seems like you have

it all figured out, huh?

I don't know what gave you

that impression.

Well, I mean, it's just that...

I don't know, you have

your own place, right?

-Yeah.

-It's kind of like having

-a little piece of the world.

-But I don't know if that means

I have it all

figured out, though.

I just mean that...

something like this feels

really far away from me, so...

I get that.

Do you know

where Poppy is?

Oh, uh, good question.

I thought they went

to get drinks.

They'll show their faces

soon enough.

I wouldn't worry about it.

[ Chuckles ]

[ Ballgame playing

indistinctly on TV ]

-What do you guys do,

like, at the circus and stuff?

I do clowning, mainly for kids.

-I do trapeze.

-Oh, my God.

That's insane. How fun!

Do you guys do anything else

or are each of those things

like your specific focuses?

So, I was thinking, like,

Southern California, basically.

[Drew] I always thought

the Pacific Northwest

was really nice.

[Poppy] Nah.

Too much rain.

[Drew] Okay, if you have

a problem with rain,

then you have a problem

with pretty much everywhere

outside of Southern California.

[Poppy] Basically just

the West Coast, right?

I mean, I kind of like

your hometown.

-Like, right out there?

-[Poppy] Right out there.

It's actually been one of my

favorite places to visit.

[Drew] I guess

it's not half bad.

[Poppy] No, it's not.

[Drew] I got to meet you.

I've always wondered

about this wanderlust

kind of fantastical

lifestyle, you know?

You're treating them

like novelties.

I mean... I'm not.

I'm just curious.

You know, like, to me,

it's a whole nother world.

Mm, not really.

[Vanessa] I guess

I'm trying to say, like,

your way of life

is... different.

You know, like...

Old-fashioned?

Is that the right word?

Nostalgic sounds better.

I think our lives

are pretty normal.

I mean, we do the same

things other people do --

[Vanessa] Antiquated!

No, that sounds too similar

to old-fashioned.

We're not preserved in

some ancient time bubble.

We're aware of how the world

works and we live in it fine.

♪♪

But like, what about education?

Do you guys get homeschooled?

Or can you even get

a formal education

because you travel

around so much?

-We're homeschooled.

-We go to school.

[ Vanessa chuckles ]

Um, I'm sorry I'm asking

so many questions,

but it's just so interesting

to me, you know?

Like, what about this --

Do you guys make your own money

or is it like a collective pool

of funds, like a stipend?

What about that?

♪♪

Okay. Wait, wait, wait.

Aren't we, like, technically

at a dinner party

you're hosting?

-Um...

-[Poppy] With people?

[ Drew sighs ]

[Drew] With people. Um...

My friends, your friends.

Yeah. Those guys.

Oh.

-I'm so sorry --

-No, no, it was...

It was great.

It was really...

[Drew] Um, let me...

[Poppy] But, uh, just,

we've been gone for a bit.

You don't -- You don't

need to turn around.

It's -- It's fine.

-Okay.

You know, I wonder

if there's like a freelance

healthcare worker for,

like, circus people.

Like, I'm sure there is,

but you would definitely

have to research

the right one, right?

Can we, like, change

the subject or something?

-Lala, that's rude.

-I'm sorry, but I just...

I would rather talk

about anything else.

I-I'm sorry, I didn't mean

to offend you or anything.

I'm not offended.

I just don't want to be

treated like some novelty.

Your friend said that earlier,

and it makes sense.

[Poppy] Lala.

[ Ballgame continues

indistinctly on TV ]

Okay, so, tour's done.

What are we doing?

Just talking about our day jobs.

You didn't miss too much.

Oh, really?

Sounds like I missed a lot.

'Cause I personally would love

to know the ins and outs

of what you two do

at the circus every day.

-Dear Lord.

-What about the circus?

Oh, uh, Vanessa

was just asking us

questions about...

our lives and stuff.

-It was fine.

-What's up with the attitude?

[Drew] She wants to work

in education,

so you could see why

she wants to know

the differences between

circus life and normal life.

Normal life?

N-Normal probably isn't

the right choice of words.

I think circus life is normal.

Same here.

I'm sure he just meant

how it's different

than how most people live.

It's not that different.

Honestly, it kind of

sounds similar

to like when people join

the army, you know?

Like, they live in their

own little bubbles,

like literally on a base,

and even though soldiers

get offered things

like formal education

completely paid for after

they leave services,

a lot of them still

struggle with things like

their mental issues --

or, mm, I'm sorry,

"issues" really

isn't a nice word --

um, PTSD, stuff like

that, you know?

I'm not saying that

anyone from the circus

would have that,

but surely

there are some

comparisons to, like,

how life exists for a person

after they've left

a certain lifestyle

that they've grown

accustomed to.

You know, like --

like how it happens

in cults all

the time, too.

We're not a cult.

You mean how would

they function in society

when the one that they're

leaving is completely different?

Yeah, you get what

I'm saying, Drew.

More or less.

Are you asking how

we'd live our lives

if we didn't live in the circus?

Yeah, pretty much.

Well, I mean, who knows, right?

I just think it would be super

interesting to see how, like,

the general health and, like,

education circumstances

growing up in, like, a

really sheltered circus

community

would affect somebody

living in today's society.

[Sadie] I don't know

who you could talk to,

but I'm sure

you can find someone.

Actually, I've been

thinking about leaving

the circus for

a while now.

It's probably just

a matter of time, you know,

trying to find

the right moment, so...

maybe in a couple of months

you could ask me.

-Are you serious?

-Really? How interesting.

I'm confused.

[ Sighs ]

Yeah, Sadie,

I've been -- I've been

thinking about it

for a while now.

Thinking about what?

What's happening?

Like leaving?

Yeah, I mean, when I talked

to Lala about it --

-Wait, you knew about this?

-Don't drag me into it.

I'm just trying to be

honest with her.

And we did talk about it,

and I was --

[Lala] Yes, and you told

me not to tell her.

Yeah, because I thought

she would react this way.

Maybe she's reacting this way

because you dropped the news

like a bomb a second ago.

I'm sure this is just

a misunderstanding.

It's not.

Honestly, I'm acting how anyone

would act given the situation.

-Can we just calm down

first? -When did you decide

this?

Were you even planning

on telling me?

What, were you just gonna

leave in the middle of the night

and think you didn't

need to say goodbye?

-Does Dark know?

-Look, I'll tell you

everything --

[Sadie] Then tell me!

[Poppy] Um, maybe we should go.

[ Scoffs ]

Maybe we should go.

And you can stay here

and do whatever it is

you were doing with Drew

for the last

25 freaking minutes.

Come on, Lala,

we're going.

I'm so sorry.

Wait, guys, can't we talk

about this when we get home?

-Maybe Drew can --

-No!

-[Poppy] Why not?

-I said no, Poppy.

But I don't have that much

money left for --

[Lala] I do. It's fine.

-Look, I'm sorry.

-Don't lie.

-Sorry for what?

-[Poppy] I'm not lying!

You could have said

something sooner.

And now what? I'm leaving

with my parents in a few days.

And you're just not gonna

be here when I get back?

You're just abandoning us

just like th--

I'm not abandoning you.

And you trusted Lala,

but not me.

I've known you longer.

I know. I was going

to tell you.

[Sadie] But you didn't.

You didn't say shit.

We're going home.

-Lala --

-We're gonna get a cab.

[ Sighs ]

-Enjoy.

-[Drew] Thanks.

[Poppy] Thank you.

[ Mid-tempo

music playing ]

♪♪

I know this is probably

self-explanatory, but...

you okay?

I'll get over it.

[Drew] Is there

anything I can do?

Probably not.

I don't want to deal

with it, to be honest.

Yeah, that's --

that's fine.

This burger's really

doing it for me, you know?

[ Both chuckle ]

♪♪

I ruined your party thing.

You know none of that

stuff matters, right?

It's just pizza.

Okay.

I'm just sorry you're having

to deal with all this.

You know, maybe it was

supposed to happen this way.

But that still kind of

makes me sad, you know?

I know that doesn't

make any sense.

I must sound super

stupid right now.

Not stupid.

It's just complex.

[ Sighs ]

♪♪

[Dark] Poppy!

♪♪

It's nearly 4 a.m.

Sorry, I didn't realize.

What's going on?

Are you okay?

Poppy, are you okay there?

-Dad.

-[Dark] What?

I'm leaving.

[ Chuckles ]

You're what? You're...

You're leaving?

[ Chuckling ]

Well, what -- what do you mean?

Look, I know that this is

really sudden to hear,

and basically

with no warning at all.

-I don't understand.

-And I wanted to tell you

when we got to the off-season,

but the past couple of days

have just made it... really

hard, to be honest with you.

W-What is going on, Poppy?

[ Sighs ] It's what I'm saying.

I'm not coming back next season.

That's it.

I just promoted you, though.

-I know.

-You said yes.

I mean, I didn't

say yes, but...

What was that, then?

We were even talking

about changing things

and improving the turnout

and just upgrading ourselves.

I know. I know.

Why now?

Why so suddenly?

It's just time now.

[ Sighs, scoffs ]

You-- You're not helping

me understand.

I don't know how to

say it any clearer.

I guess I'm not

like you, okay?

It's not my dream to take

over the circus and run it.

Okay? I want to take time

and figure out

what it is that I want to do.

This does not make sense.

I'm sorry, I just need you

to understand where I'm --

-You are not making sense.

-Dad, I am.

You just don't want to hear it.

I won't let you.

What?

You can't just decide this

on a whim and expect it

to work out perfectly.

You've got a job here.

Whether it's a family business

or not, you've got a job.

-This is a job.

-Okay, well, let me put this

in a way that you'll understand.

I'm quitting.

-I can't accept that.

-Dad, you can.

-And I need you to. Please.

-I can't. I can't.

You can.

Why couldn't you talk

to me, huh? Hmm?

If this is the way you've been

feeling for some time, you...

You could have

just talked to me.

I'm your dad.

I wanted to make this

decision on my own.

I haven't told anyone.

I don't get it.

I didn't get

when your mother left.

I don't get why you're leaving.

I don't get it, Poppy.

I don't know what else to say.

Listen.

Why don't you sleep on it

at least, huh?

A full night's rest.

-Dad.

-[Dark] Clear your head, and

-that way we could just talk.

-You're not listening.

You're not listening.

[Dark] And really understand

why this is happening.

Dad.

-We can fix it.

-No, I don't want to fix it!

Don't you get that?

I'm tired of fixing it.

I've been fixing this circus

and supporting you for 14 years,

and I'm tired.

Okay? I'm really, really tired.

And I have found an opportunity

to be happy here in this town

and I want to take it.

Okay? And I have really thought

about it. I really have.

And I've waited.

And it's just time now.

♪♪

But it's supposed

to be our circus.

But it's never been ours.

And you know that.

What? It's okay.

It's fine.

♪♪

-Just leave, Poppy.

-Dad.

-You're --

-[Dark] Have at it.

I don't want to

leave it like this.

You're acting like I'm

totally abandoning you.

Don't you dare.

♪♪

I know how this works.

♪♪

[ Crying ]

♪♪

[ Static, announcer speaking

indistinctly over radio ]

[ Radio tuning ]

[ Slow music playing on radio ]

[Poppy] Hi. Hello.

[woman] Oh, hi.

Can I help you?

Uh, yeah. I was wondering

how much it is for a night.

-$29.

-[Poppy] Okay.

♪♪

Just one second.

Okay, um... never mind.

Do you know another

place that would --

[woman] How much have

you got on you?

Just a 20.

Okay, that'll do.

I'm gonna put you

in room 108.

♪♪

And, uh, if you need

to stay longer,

we can work something out.

Okay. Thank you.

♪♪

[ Sighs ]

[ Car alarm blaring

in distance ]

Oh, hi. Yes?

Uh, the TV in my room

won't turn on.

[ Groans ]

You know, we had somebody

in here last week

who was supposed to go

through all of the rooms,

making sure everything was

as it was supposed to be.

And we're out a TV now.

Of course.

Okay, let's see

what I've got for you.

Well, I could switch you

to 106.

Does that work?

Okay. Thanks.

Sleep all day?

Oh, yeah, I did.

[woman] Long night,

I'm guessing.

-Yeah, something like that.

-You should be good now.

[Poppy] Okay. Thank you.

[woman] Is there something

else I can help you with?

Um, actually, do you know

if anyone in town is hiring?

Are you looking for a job?

Yeah, I am.

Well, uh...

What do you like to do?

Or what are you looking to do?

Well, I can, um...

Sometimes --

[woman] It's really

hard to help you

if you give me nothing

to go off of.

Right.

Sorry. Have a nice night.

[woman] Wait a minute.

Wait a minute.

Y-You can have a job here.

Uh, I've got an opening.

As long as you're willing to

get yourself up and running

and learn some things.

It's not too glamorous.

[ Chuckles ]

I work a lot of overtime

and wear multiple hats.

You could take one of the hats.

One of the perks being that

you could take one of the rooms

and make it your own.

The whole nine yards.

And as long as you work

when you're supposed to,

we'll have no problems.

Yeah, okay.

Um, what's the job?

Pretty much... this.

[ Laughter on TV ]

[ Show plays

indistinctly ]

[woman on TV] Will you

have a cigarette?

[man on TV] Oh, yes. Thank you.

Thank you very much.

[ Laughter on TV ]

[woman] Made a large

conflagration, didn't it?

Well, now,

about the party.

Um, how old is your little boy?

[man] Eight.

[woman] Oh, eight

is such a cute age.

[man] He'll be

nine Saturday.

[woman] Oh, well, nine

is a cute age, too.

[man] I know it's pretty short

notice, but could you people

handle a party for

this Saturday afternoon?

[woman #2] Can we?

[woman] Uh, um, we'll have

to check the calendar.

[woman #2] Huh?

[woman] Uh, by George,

you're in luck.

We have a cancellation.

[woman #2] Oh, did they cancel?

[woman] Yes.

[ Laughter ]

[man] That's just fine.

Now, uh, what do you

provide for this party?

[woman] Oh,

um, everything.

UH, refreshments, entertainment,

balloons, the works.

[woman #2] Oh, yes,

Mrs. Carmichael makes

-the cutest favors you ever saw.

-[woman] Yeah. Oh, and --

and when until you taste

Mrs. Bagley's birthday cake.

[man] Well, I suppose you people

always have a kind of theme

for these parties.

If it's any help to you, my boy

Tommy is crazy about the circus.

[woman] Oh, good, good.

Well, then, we'll use

a circus motif.

And, uh, let's see,

I could make some darling

little, um, uh...

animal place cards,

and then we could bring

the presents in in a --

a miniature, uh, lion's cage.

[man] Wouldn't

it be better

for the clown to bring

in the presents?

[woman] Oh, uh, yes. Yes.

We will let the clown

bring in the presents.

[woman #2] The clown?

[man] Well, it wouldn't be

a circus without a clown.

[woman] Sure is,

anybody knows that.

[ Laughter ]

Now, we'll let the clown

bring in the friends.

[man] Now, then, uh,

just what kind of

animal acts do you have

to choose from?

[woman] Eh, what kind of

animal acts do we have?

[woman #2] Oh, I don't know.

The clown has my list.

[ Laughter ]

[man] Horses are

pretty standard,

but the kids always

seem to like a dog act.

[woman] Oh, yeah. You can't

go wrong with a dog act.

[woman #2] Oh, heavens no!

A dog act is such a showstopper.

[woman] Yeah.

Well, that's it, then.

We'll have a circus motif,

and we'll have a dog act,

and we'll have a clown.

[man] Fine. We'll figure

about one o'clock...

[ Wind rushing ]

[ Poppy exhales ]

Balloon Animal (2022) - full transcript