Galentine's Day Nightmare (2021) Movie Script

♪ [Ominous music] ♪

♪

Male voice: As many

of you know,

Lisa and I met on a blind

date three years ago.

I still remember walking

her to her car that night.

I had this odd feeling I

was going to marry her.

When you know, you know, right?

As I stand here today,

I am a broken man.

My better half is gone.

And Madison's mother's gone.

♪

She loved being your mother

more than anything

in the world, maddie.

Please know that.

(Sigh)

Thank you.

Madison...

♪ [Dark musical crescendo] ♪

♪

[Crickets chirping]

So, are we the definition

of the modern woman?

No boys allowed the

night before Valentine's?

Or... are we just desperate?

Desperate? Claire, it's

galentine's, as in,

a night for us gals to

own our independence.

And who needs a guy

to have fun anyway?

Well, I wouldn't mind

one once in a while

to go to dinner

and a movie with.

Someone who treats

me with respect.

Oh, yeah. Sorry.

It's been over a year and I

haven't gone on one date yet.

I gotta start living again.

Hey, I like this new attitude.

So, how'd you find

out about this place

we're going to, anyway?

-I got a dm from them.

Apparently, it got a new

owner and a makeover.

Sounds like another

reason to celebrate to me!

-Well, I can't

stay out too late.

Why?

Have you forgotten our

new boss starts tomorrow?

-Oh right.

I can't believe Margaret Coleman

bought the whole company.

Her family is crazy rich.

Well, she's gonna love

you, you know why?

Because you're great

at what you do. 'K?

So, you're gonna walk

in there tomorrow

like you own the place.

(Laughs)

♪ [Dance music] ♪

♪

Hey. Happy

Valentine's day.

I'm Scott.

Someone didn't get the memo.

It's galentine's day.

Three more hours

till Valentine's.

Guess I'm gonna have

to stick around then.

But warning, you may instantly

fall in love with me.

No...

Ooh...

Uh, bye-eee.

Buh-bye.

Bye.

[Chatter]

Just for that, I’m

ordering rounds.

'Cause you slayed that idiot.

He's, uh, been hitting

on every girl in here.

Guys like that give the

male species a bad name.

(Giggling)

Hi. Tiffany.

Brian.

Sophia.

Oh, sorry. Claire.

Nice to meet you.

Ah, look at that, drinks.

It's a pleasure meeting you.

Enjoy.

♪

Brian might have a

thing for you!

He does not!

Oh no, I think she's right.

Yeah. You're a

hot commodity.

Ok. Claire,

admit it.

Totally.

Seriously, stop it right now.

This is supposed to be

a girls' night, anyway.

So, let's have fun and, uh,

just enjoy these free shots.

That's cool, right?

(Laughs) Here's to galentine's.

♪

This has been so much fun.

I'm so happy; I knew

you'd love it here.

Happy Galentine's day.

Happy Galentine!

Oh well, I'm gonna

hit the bathroom

'cause I think my

make-up is melting off.

Oh, yeah.

And I should get going.

Uh, no, no! Wait

until we get back.

Don't leave, ok?

Fine. Fine.

Ok.

♪

Hey, you.

Brian, right?

Either you're good

with names or...

I made an impression.

Well, maybe it was a

little bit of both.

All right, well, I'll take it.

So, Claire. What do

you do for a living?

I'm a designer. Uh,

high-end sportswear.

And what do you do?

Oh, I'm in... in sales.

Hmm. And are you...

Originally from Philly?

No, actually, uh, Atlanta.

So, what do you

think of this place?

It's got a really good vibe.

Then can I show

you something cool?

Uh... my friends are...

Ah, come on, just five minutes.

I promise I'll have

you back, all right?

Ok. Five minutes.

Five minutes.

Ok. Yeah.

(Laughs)

[Sigh]

How beautiful is this?

Oh. It's... gorgeous.

Yeah.

Are we even allowed up here?

Oh, it's fine. I

know the owner.

He's actually going to

use this as part

of the restaurant.

What a great idea.

Yeah.

You know, sometimes

you just gotta stop...

And appreciate the

little things, right?

I couldn't agree more.

I lost my wife a

couple of years ago,

so now I don't take

anything for granted.

I am so sorry.

It got a little

easier with time.

Friends tell me I need

to get out there again

and go on dates.

Well, mine tell

me the same thing.

That all I care about is work

and working out so...

Well, I happen

to, uh, love work,

and I can't function

without my daily run.

Where do you run?

Oh, just around

the neighborhood. You?

Briarwood Park.

The trails are rugged;

It's super isolated.

It's Philly's best kept secret.

Nice. I'll definitely

have to check it out.

Mm hmm.

Hey, will you

look at that, 12:01.

Mmm.

I guess I'm officially

your Valentine

by sheer proximity alone.

I guess you are, Brian.

I'm sorry I don't have

any flowers or chocolates.

It's a... little

last-minute.

Well, sometimes spontaneity

is the best gift.

That's a really cool

way to look at things.

Mm hmm.

♪

I can't believe she left.

Mm. Maybe she's

with Mr. Forever.

Or not.

Yeah?

I feel this instant

connection with you, Claire.

I, uh, I really should...

Get back to my friends.

Ok.

Oh, my friends must've left.

Shoot, they tried texting me.

Well, I'd better go.

- Ok.

But, uh, it was so

nice meeting you.

The pleasure was all mine.

Oh.

Wow. 30 minutes

for a ride.

[Door closes]

♪

[Door opens and closes]

Hey, I don't want

to be too forward,

but can I give you a ride?

I'm leaving anyway.

Oh. It's ok,

I'll be fine.

Well, it's gonna be after

one by the time you get home.

You know what?

Sure... I would love a ride.

All right.

Just parked over here.

Nope, on the inside.

Dad raised me right.

(Both laugh)

Claire: This is it. You

can turn into my driveway

and drop me off there.

♪

Thank you for the ride.

You're welcome.

I'm gonna walk you to the door.

Ok.

Thank you.

I really enjoyed tonight.

Yeah, me too.

Can I see you again?

I would like that.

Could I have your number?

Yes, of course, of course.

[Clatter]

Oh, let me get that for you.

♪♪

I normally don't do

this, uh, but, uh...

Do you want to come in?

I thought you'd never ask.

♪ [Foreboding music] ♪

♪♪

[Kissing sounds]

What's wrong?

It's just, uh...

If you don't want

to do this, it's ok.

No, I do.

I do.

♪

[Eerie sound effects]

(Quietly) Gonna keep

an eye on you, Claire

[creaking wood]

[Footsteps]

♪

Sleep well, Claire.

Your life's about to change.

♪♪

[Footsteps receding]

[Morning birdsong]

[Exhale]

♪ [Soft music] ♪

"I feel like I've

known you forever.

Who needs Galentine's when

you have Valentine's."

[Phone chimes]

♪♪

[Office chatter]

[Phones ringing]

[Knocks on desk]

I can't believe you

left without telling us.

(Laugh) I, uh, actually

didn't leave before you.

What do you mean?

I was with the

drinks guy, Brian.

Really.

He's nice.

Mm hmm. And?

He, uh...

(Whispers) Came home with me.

Oh, my god!

Shh!

Maybe I shouldn't have.

Why not?

I mean, he's handsome,

seemed really nice.

Clearly a professional and

you haven't been with a guy

in forever.

Thanks, tiff. I

guess you're right.

I know I'm right.

So, are you gonna see him again?

I don't know...

But I like him.

♪

Good luck meeting

with the new boss!

♪

Please, have a seat.

I want you to know how hard

I'm gonna work for you

and how happy I am to be here.

This is my dream job.

Relax.

I'm glad to hear that.

I was very impressed by that

floral line you created.

You seem to have a different

eye from everyone else here.

Thanks.

I'd love to know what

other ideas you have.

Tons.

And I want to learn as

much as I can from you too.

Well, that's great.

We need a younger

perspective around here.

You know what?

Would you like to join

me for lunch today?

Of course.

Thank you, Ms. Coleman.

Oh please, Margaret.

I look forward to seeing what

you'll bring to the brand.

Thank you.

♪

[Phone rings]

Claire.

Got it. Thank you.

Lunch with Margaret is at

city bistro 215 at noon.

Hm, what a coincidence.

I know, right?

Since we were just

there last night?

♪

All right, you guys

enjoying the food here?

Great. Fantastic.

Ah. Claire!

What brings you back here?

I am meeting someone.

What're you doing here?

I have a confession to make.

I own the restaurant.

You said that your friend did.

I know. I was just

wanting to have fun

like everyone else last night

and we were so in the moment.

I'm sorry.

It's ok.

Thank you for the

chocolates, by the way.

Where'd you get them in

the middle of the night?

Oh, I know a little 24-hour

bodega near your place.

I slipped out and

slipped back in.

Mmm.

You know, you are

beautiful when you sleep.

[Small laugh]

I'd really like

to see you again.

That would be nice.

Margaret: Forgive me!

The doctor was running late.

Hi, honey.

Hey.

Sorry, I didn't

make a reservation

not that I need one.

I see you've already

met my husband.

Brian, this is Claire Donahue.

Nice to meet you, Claire.

Mm hmm.

Now, if you don't

like something,

you know who to complain to.

Brian: Iced tea ok

for both of you?

Elizabeth: Yeah.

Thanks, sweetie.

Hey. Wait, where's

your wedding ring?

Huh? Oh, I was cooking

and took it off.

I'll be right back, ok?

All right. Come,

have a seat.

So, tell me.

Do you have a special someone

to celebrate

Valentine's day with?

You know, I thought

I did but, no.

Well, don't wait too

long to settle down.

I was very focused on my career

and then I got

married pretty quick.

Never thought it'd

happen, actually.

Claire?

Yes. Sorry, I just, I

have a bit of a headache.

Can you just excuse

me for a minute?

♪ [Tense music] ♪

[Door opens and closes]

[High heels on floor]

[Exhale]

[Knocks]

Just calm down.

[Exhale]

Calm... down.

We need to talk.

Just get away from me.

Claire, you need to...

Get away from me!

Claire...

[Indistinct conversations]

Claire: Here goes nothing.

(Exhale)

Tiffany: I mean,

what did he say?

Honestly, I was in such

shock, I can barely remember.

I don't know how I went back

and did lunch with Margaret.

Wow.

This is what I get.

The only time I have ever had

a one-night stand in

my entire life.

I should've just stayed home!

It's not your fault.

He told me he respected me.

Oh, honey, you just

had some really bad luck.

That's an understatement.

What am I supposed to do?

Tell Margaret and risk my job?

Or pretend like

nothing happened?

I mean, that's a tough one.

Do you really wanna

risk blowing up

your career for this?

My dad cheated on my mom.

All of his friends knew.

Nobody had the

decency to tell her.

She could've left

him years earlier.

And that's terrible.

But you barely

know these people.

Don't make their

dirty laundry yours.

♪

You didn't die for nothing, dad.

Mom took us for everything.

But I promise...

That's never gonna

happen to me again.

♪

"Brian Coleman,

new owner of city bistro

215 attends grand opening

with his wife,

Margaret Coleman."

Well, that didn't

take long, Claire.

"Local restaurateur's

wife ruled a suicide.

Lisa Coleman, 38,

was pronounced dead

in her Trenton home."

♪

[Car beeps]

What are you doing here?

I needed to see you.

I told you, leave me alone.

Margaret and I are

getting a divorce.

It's a mutual decision.

It doesn't change the

fact that you lied to me.

Just give me five

minutes to explain.

Please.

♪

Fine.

[Door opens]

After my wife Lisa, died,

I was in a really bad place.

And Margaret was there

at the right time.

But, honestly, I had no

business marrying her.

So, why did you?

It was a rebound relationship.

We never truly loved each other.

You should've just

been honest with me.

Look, I was afraid you

wouldn't understand.

Lying is what I

don't understand.

God, Claire, look, I...

I can't explain it, but it's,

it's like I told you

that first night.

I, I felt this instant

attraction to you.

I've never experienced

that before, like a...

Like a lightning bolt.

And I know you felt it too.

When I thought you were single.

I really like you.

Please, give me a chance.

♪

[Sigh]

I, uh, I need time

to ...Think.

Well, don't overthink it.

We could be really

good together.

You should go.

You know where the door is.

♪

[Footsteps]

♪

[Door opens and closes]

You think they're

really getting divorced?

I mean, he seemed sincere, but,

how can I really trust him?

What are you gonna do?

My gut is telling me to run,

but my heart is saying

that I kinda like him.

Tiffany, what's wrong with me?

Nothing.

It's called being human.

And maybe there's

something there.

But there are guys out there

with no baggage, you know.

Yeah, really?

'Cause I haven't

met one yet so...

♪ [Dramatic] ♪

Did you see that?

What?

Margaret looked really upset.

Do you think she knows?

About you and her lying husband?

Girl, I don't think you'd

still be here if she did.

I feel sick.

Can I get you anything?

No. I need to go.

'K, cover for me.

♪

[Door opens]

Mom?

In here, honey.

Hey, mom.

Hey, sweetie.

Are you all settled?

Yes.

And thank you for letting

me use your guest room.

Mm hm.

(Sigh) I'm just looking

at bathroom fixtures.

I swear there's a

million choices.

Hmm. When's the new

condo going to be ready?

Uh, the contractor said it

should be a couple of weeks.

I just wish the new

owners didn't insist

on moving in immediately.

Everybody's all about

themselves these days.

So why aren't you at work?

(Sigh) I'm just a

little out of sorts.

Do you want some chamomile tea?

That would be lovely.

Wanna talk about

what's bothering you?

It's just one of those days.

[Phone chimes]

Mom: And how was your night

out with Tiffany and Sophia?

What do you girls call it again?

Uh, Galentine's.

It was ok.

-Just ok? Did you

meet anyone?

No, mom. It's a

night for the gals.

Besides, I thought that I

was ready to put myself

out there again, but I'm not.

Tsk, tsk, tsk, lying

to mom, Claire.

But you've been doing great.

Well, apparently the

universe doesn't believe

that I deserve happiness so...

Hey, where's this coming from?

Did something happen?

No. It's just it's not easy

being out there again.

You have to stop

beating yourself up.

What happened to

Mark was an accident.

It's over, Mark!

Can we please talk about this?

It seemed like all you

wanted to do was talk

to that waitress!

You haven't changed.

Leave me alone!

(Gasp) Mark! No!

Mark! Wake up!

Mark! Somebody help me!

I killed him, mom.

Ooh, you are a

troubled girl, Claire.

Mom: It was an accident.

And he put you in that

position by cheating on you

so many times.

He made your life hell.

Like, dad did to yours?

Hey, we've both worked to

put the past behind us.

Well, it's hard, mom.

Mom: Maybe you should think

about starting therapy again.

-I don't need therapy.

-Well, what about going

back on your meds?

I worked really hard

to get off them.

Yes, but if they help?

I'd feel like I'd be

taking a step backwards.

Well, can I make

dinner for you tonight?

I'll cook lasagna,

your favorite.

Mm, I'm just really not hungry.

[Inhale]

I'm just gonna go for

a run in the park

after I finish this

work; Clear my head.

♪

[Door opens]

♪

[Car beeps]

♪ [Discordant drone] ♪

[Footsteps]

Hey, you.

(Gasp) Brian!

(Breathing heavily)

You scared me.

Oh, sorry, I didn't think

anyone would be out here

running in the

middle of the day.

Why are you?

Well, you made the

park sound so great,

I decided to check

it out for myself.

Oh.

Shouldn't you be at work?

Ah, I needed a

mental health break.

Trust me, I get it.

Mind if I join you?

I don't know, I...

Just as friends.

But I promise it's

gonna be the best run

you've ever taken.

I happen to be a licensed

armchair therapist.

(Laughs) Ok.

But you're gonna have

to catch me first.

Oh, don't worry, I will!

You'd better be

quicker than that.

I'm lightning.

I'm catching up!

So, what was her

main course, water?

(Laughs) Well, I

finally told her...

We have some nice gluten-free

Styrofoam in the back.

You did not.

I did.

(Laughs)

(Sigh) You know,

I love it when you smile.

Hm.

I haven't been doing

a lot of that lately.

(Sigh) You should know, uh,

Margaret got the divorce

paperwork today.

Oh.

You know, I saw her earlier.

She looked upset.

Is that why?

Yeah.

I think it's just

the finality of it.

Hm.

I'm surprised she was in at all.

She said she wanted

to take her mind

off of everything.

Hey, listen. She

and I both hate

that we couldn't make it work.

But it's the right thing to do.

Doesn't make it

any easier though.

You can't beat yourself up.

Sometimes things

just don't work out.

Thanks.

I think I'm the one that needed

the mental health break.

[Soft laughs]

So, did you move out yet?

No. It's a, it's

a big house.

Margaret told me I could

stay until I find a place.

She's a good woman.

I probably should head home.

Ok. I'll walk you

to your car?

Ok.

[Lock beeps]

Let me get that for you.

You know, every

time I kiss you...

I feel like I'm the luckiest

man in the whole world.

So what do you think?

Could we go out sometime on

a real date, take it slow?

Now that all of this

is out in the open?

I, uh...

I think I need some more time.

Well, I'm a patient man.

[Door closes]

[Car engine starts]

You shouldn't be so

trusting, Claire.

It can get you into

all kinds of trouble.

[Small laugh]

[Sudden inhalation]

[Exhale]

♪

You're fired!

Homewrecker!

♪ [Dramatic music] ♪

[Running water]

[Sighing]

Where's Margaret?

I'm not sure, but I heard

her friend's husband died.

Probably why she looked

so upset yesterday.

I thought it was

because she got served

the divorce papers.

Are you talking to

her husband again?

Yeah. I saw him

in the park.

He said that they've

agreed on the terms.

So you're hanging out with him?

We literally

bumped into each other.

We had a good talk.

I think he really likes me.

Ok. Just be

careful, all right?

♪

[Door opens]

Each customer with

that same great smile, ok?

Hi. Can we talk?

Look, I'm going to have

to ask you to leave.

Excuse me?

I told you. Stop calling

me. Stop following me.

What are you talking about?

- Please. Just go.

But you said all those

things to me earlier.

I haven't seen you today and I

have no idea why you're here.

But if you don't go,

I'm calling the police.

I'm not gonna ask you again!

- Brian!

Call the police.

Don't bother!

[He hits the table]

Call them!

I'll be in my office

if anyone asks.

I don't want to be disturbed.

[Door slams shut]

I mean, why is he doing this?

(Sniffs) Oh!

And why did I come here?

[Car starts]

♪

Brian: I'm going to trap

you like a rat, Claire.

Now...

[Keyboard clicks]

[Ring signal]

You've reached Tiffany.

You know what to do.

Tiffany? Please call me

as soon as you get this, ok?

Something really bad

happened tonight.

♪ [Tense music] ♪

♪

[Click]

[Door closes]

Hello?

(Sharp inhale)

(Laughs) Sorry.

Have a good night.

♪

[Door opens]

♪ [Eerie] ♪

[Footsteps on metal stairs]

What are you doing here?

Wait! No! No, no!

No, please! No!

(Screams) Why?

Your time was up, Margaret.

[Panting]

♪

[Door closes]

[Buzz of conversation]

What's going on?

♪♪

Tiffany!

Did you hear what

happened to Margaret?

She was stabbed to death!

Oh my god. Do they

know who did it?

They're not saying

if they do, no.

I heard they stole her purse

and jewelry as well, so...

Yeah.

I'm leaving.

But what if they

want to talk to us?

Why would they?

Because we work here.

Well, I'm sure they can find me.

Hey.

What did you want to talk

to me about last night?

You said something

really bad happened.

Oh. N-Nothing.

I'm gonna go for a

run, clear my head.

Text me later?

(Breathing heavily)

Anna: Well, what are

the police saying?

Nothing to the employees,

and I can't find anything

on the news other than

the robbery theory.

I hate this!

Are you ok?

Is there something else, honey?

Brian: Sure, there is.

Your daughter's not well, Anna.

Anna: Claire, I’m

worried about you.

There's something

I need to tell you.

Ok.

Oh, Claire.

I had no idea what you

were going through.

I'm sorry. Mom,

I screwed up.

Bad.

Are you ok?

I don't know.

I don't know what's

up or down anymore.

I just...

Anna: You couldn't have

known he was married.

And what happened to her,

it has nothing to do

with you, right?

Oh, but it does, but it does.

[Small laugh]

Claire: He told me that he

felt an instant connection.

My judgement fails me again.

Hm.

[Phone chimes]

Anna: Who is it?

Tiffany.

She says the police want to

talk to everyone tomorrow.

She wants to meet up.

Oh, we should just drown

our sorrows in wine.

Coffee is probably

a better choice.

[Phone chimes]

We're gonna meet at

the ground bean at 8.

Ok, it looks like I'll meet

you ladies at the coffee shop.

[Door opens and closes]

Hey, girl.

Hey.

How are you feeling?

A little on

edge. You?

Yeah. Pretty

much the same.

No one I know has

ever been murdered.

Come on. Let's go.

[Footsteps]

♪ [Eerie] ♪

♪♪

Seriously? You need

to stop following me!

I told you, leave me alone!

What are you talking about?

-I don't know what else

I can say to you

to make you understand.

I want nothing to do with you.

I am not following you.

Oh, so it's a coincidence

you keep showing up

wherever I am! Is

that how that works?

Why are you doing this to me?

To you?

Be careful.

This one is a real psycho.

You know what?

If you won't leave,

it's fine; I will.

(Sigh) My god.

Ok, what was that all about?

I don't know.

This is the

second time that he's done this.

Done what?

Acted like I'm crazy.

Yeah. Ok.

Sit here.

Do you wanna know

the really bad thing

that happened last night?

What?

I went to his

restaurant to talk.

Only, he made it seem

like I was stalking him.

He is messing with me, Tiffany.

And I don't know why.

How would he even know you

were going to be here, though?

Beats me. But, obviously,

I didn't follow him!

Claire.

Your mom called me

a little while ago.

She's worried about you.

She thinks maybe you should

go back on your medication.

(Scoff) I gotta go.

We just want to help you!

♪ [Intense percussive music] ♪

[Door opens and closes]

[Engine starts]

You're not crazy.

[Door closes]

[Phones ringing in background]

The detective's

interviewing everybody

in the conference room.

Hey, she just wants to

know if we saw anything.

I already talked to her.

The questions were routine.

There's nothing to worry about.

Claire Donahue?

[Rushing sound]

Thank you.

[Door closes]

[Echo] It was an

accident. He fell.

You have to believe

me. I swear.

Female detective: Thank you

for making the time.

This'll be quick.

No problem.

Have you seen anyone

suspicious hanging around

in the parking lot?

Any strange cars?

No.

Have you or your colleagues

had any problems with anyone?

Had anything stolen recently?

Uh, not that I'm aware of.

Generally, we feel pretty

safe around here...

Until now, of course.

How well did you know

Margaret Coleman?

Not very, she only just

bought the company.

So you haven't heard of

anything going on in her life?

What do you mean?

Did she seem ok?

Like I said, I didn't

know her very well.

Do you think that this

could be connected

to the other muggings downtown?

It could be.

We can't say for sure.

Did you get any

security camera video?

I can't answer any

questions about

an ongoing investigation, but

I can assure you we're

doing all that we can.

Please give me a call

if you hear anything,

or remember something

that could be relevant.

♪

Hey.

Everything ok?

Seems to me like they

think it's a robbery.

See, I told you it'd be fine.

So, what's going to

happen to the company?

I guess it depends on who

Margaret left it to

in her will.

Do you know?

No idea.

So, what, are we just

supposed to keep working?

Yeah. The VPS are

taking over for now

until we're given our

marching orders so...

[Phone rings]

Detective: Hello.

♪ [Dramatic sting] ♪

Absolutely. Right away.

[Conversation buzz]

"Police sources

say the murder weapon

has been located in

the death of wealthy designer,

Margaret Coleman.

It's unclear what weapon was

used or where it was found."

Claire! Did you hear?

-Yeah. I just saw. They

found the murder weapon.

-Yeah, a letter opener.

-What? From where?

Apparently, the cops

think it's the one

from the copy room at work.

Margaret's assistant

was working late

and said the

detectives came back.

I mean, this might not have

been a robbery, after all.

-But who would want

to do this from work?

She just bought the company.

- No clue. But she says

the police want to

interview everyone again

and take our prints.

- Really?

- Yeah, I mean, I’m

not surprised.

I'll see you at work tomorrow.

You're gonna be there, right?

(Sighs) Yeah. Sure.

Claire. Everything's

gonna be fine.

I gotta go.

(Ragged breathing)

Oh, what the hell is going on?

♪

Tracking me, Claire?

What, are you a psycho?

In light of our new discovery,

can you run through your

timeline again?

Yeah.

Uh, as I've stated, I was in

my office doing paperwork.

You saw the surveillance video.

I went home after the

restaurant closed.

I fell asleep watching the

news in the living room.

And, uh, when I woke up,

I assumed Margaret

was at her morning yoga class.

I went to my workout,

and that's when I got

the call from you.

What was your relationship

like with your wife?

I wanna be totally

honest with you.

I was considering

getting a divorce.

I even met with an attorney.

Name?

Gerald parsing.

I told him I didn't want

anything from my wife

except to keep the restaurant.

I was planning to take

over the mortgage payments.

What was the problem

with your marriage?

We were both focused

too much on work.

Oh, and you should also know.

I, uh, spent the night with

someone a few nights ago.

Name?

Claire Donahue.

She actually worked

for Margaret.

And how did you meet her?

At my restaurant.

Have you seen her since?

Yes. But not because

I wanted to. She's been...

Stalking me.

She came by my restaurant

unannounced uh,

and then showed up at the

park while I was there.

Oh, and somehow, she found me

at a coffee shop two nights ago.

Name of this coffee shop?

The ground bean.

It's been escalating

with her and,

and I know I should've

said something earlier,

but I thought this

was a robbery.

Do you have any proof

of what you're accusing

Ms. Donahue of?

Well, my hostess saw

her at the restaurant.

Actually, she called the police.

Um, and one of

Claire's friends, uh,

was at the coffee

place with her.

Do you know the

name of this friend?

Stephanie?

Maybe Tiffany, I, I

only met her once.

Does Claire know you

were thinking about

getting a divorce

from your wife?

Yes. I told her the

first night we met.

Then what could her motive be?

If she had something to

do with your wife's death?

When Claire found

me in the park,

I told her I was

rethinking the divorce.

The whole one-night-stand,

it, uh, had left me...

Sort of empty.

And Margaret wanted to

give us another shot.

Claire didn't take it well.

I have text messages.

Uh. Here.

Kim: Do you believe him?

Those texts were pretty bad,

and you saw the

surveillance video.

He was in his office and his

car was in the parking lot

at the time she was killed.

Pretty solid alibi.

Yeah, but you know

as well as I do,

the spouse is number one.

Maybe he had an accomplice.

What did Claire Donahue

say yesterday, anyway?

Not much. I mean, she was

a little bit nervous,

but her boss was

just murdered, so...

You gotta talk to her again.

I just wish we had that

damn security video

from the murder scene.

Awfully convenient that

the camera didn't work

the night of the murder.

[Phone dings]

Oh, the tests are

back on the weapon.

Three unknown sets of

prints, one match so far.

Who?

Claire Donahue.

Why are her prints

in the system?

Good question.

Looks like she was

arrested for manslaughter.

Her ex-boyfriend.

She was never formally charged.

And it was ruled an accident.

Huh.

♪

Hello, Claire!

(Sharp inhalation) Stay

away from me!

Just wanna talk.

Now you wanna talk?

Look, I thought you should know,

I told the police about

our one-night stand.

What? Why would

you do that?

'Cause I'm an honest

person, Claire.

And I thought it was

important that they knew.

I'm sure they're gonna

want to talk to you

if they haven't already.

I had nothing to do

with your wife's murder.

Well, it's just a heads-up.

You're welcome.

(Breathing)

You're sick.

Well, I should probably

get back to my run.

You have yourself a

good day, all right?

(Breathing) What is happening?

"Tiffany, please call me as

soon as you get this, ok?

Something really bad

happened tonight."

♪

I found this under

Brian Coleman's car.

I think we know how she's

been tracking him now.

Anna: He told the police about

what happened with you?

He said he was being honest.

I guess that makes some sense.

Yeah, but the way

he's acting doesn't.

I mean, he's all

over me one minute,

and a total jerk the next.

(Sigh) I'm scared.

Mom, that letter opener

came from my work.

Well, did everyone

have access to it?

It's from the copy

room, so yeah.

Would Brian Coleman have access?

Well, his wife owned

the company so, I guess.

You said he was acting

strange at the coffee shop.

And, when you came

to the restaurant

on the night of

the murder, right?

Yeah, he told me to leave.

Caused a major scene.

But earlier that day,

you had a great time

on the running trail

when no one was around?

At first, I was thinking that

he was treating me badly

in front of people so that his

wife wouldn't find out

but now...

Mom.

I think that he's playing

some kind of game.

He's up to something.

What do you know about this guy?

Not much.

He told me that he's

been married before.

His wife killed herself.

Oh, really?

He said that his relationship

with Margaret was a rebound,

that he didn't really love her.

Would he have

reason to kill her?

She's worth a lot of money.

It terrifies me to say this, but

I think that he might

be trying to frame me!

I'm not going to jail!

He is!

Anna: You're

back on your meds?

Yes, mom. Happy now?

[Clatter]

Ok. Just

calm down.

Don't tell me to calm down!

Maybe I should call dad.

Ask him what to do.

[Doorbell rings]

I'll get it.

[Door opens]

Can I help you?

I'm detective Bailey

with Philly pd.

Is your daughter Claire home?

Yes. What's this about?

The murder of Margaret Coleman.

You need to come

downtown with me.

♪

Text Sophia. Her

number's in my phone.

I'd like to see your phone.

Do you have a warrant?

No.

Then, no.

Not without my lawyer.

Tell Sophia to meet

me at the station.

Yes.

♪

They think that I

killed her, mom!

They found my prints

on the murder weapon.

So why weren't you arrested?

I don't know.

Did you tell them about Brian?

No, Sophia said not

to say anything.

Is she still at the station?

The last I saw, she was

talking to the detectives.

She wants us to come see

her tomorrow about the case.

Ok.

I'm sorry.

About what I said about dad.

You didn't deserve that.

I am so grateful for you.

I know. It's ok, honey.

I love you.

Everything's gonna be fine.

♪

So... they found three

other sets of prints

on the letter opener.

That's why you weren't arrested.

Well, whose were they?

They won't say.

But you should know that

they have text messages

that apparently show you were

obsessed with Brian Coleman.

From Brian's phone.

I never text him.

Here, you can look at my phone.

The police said it

came from your number.

Well, that is impossible.

He must have faked them somehow.

Well, he was here

a couple of times.

Maybe he did something.

It's possible.

They also have a

video of an argument

with the two of you

at a coffee shop.

He claimed that I

followed him there.

But I was already

going to that place.

Look. My text to

Tiffany proves it.

[Notification chirp]

What do we have?

Claire: It's gone.

Mom, you know I

was going to meet her.

Anna: Yes, she was.

Ok. There's something

else that I learned,

and it doesn't

look good, Claire.

The police checked Brian's

car and they found a tracker.

So?

So, it traces back

to your credit card.

What? He must've

stolen my number.

You have to tell the police

about what Brian's been doing...

I don't want to say

anything until we know more.

Claire can look like

the unstable one.

Especially given...

Her past.

And you should know,

since I advised you

not to turn over your phone...

I'm sure they're working

on a warrant as we speak.

So now I look even more guilty

because I'm not cooperating.

And, I mean, my

alibi is terrible.

I was driving around

to clear my head.

Hey, hey, hey, hey, calm down.

The last thing you want

is to say something

you're gonna regret later.

Ok?

Anything can be used

against you in trial.

What? Trial?

We're not there yet.

Not even close.

Anna: We need to find out

everything we can

about this Brian Coleman.

♪♪

Kim: I put my money

on the girl.

Yeah, but we've got three

other print matches

on the weapon.

All Coleman's employees.

All with no motive.

Claire Donahue slept with the

husband and let's not forget,

she killed her ex-boyfriend

and spent six months

in court-ordered therapy.

What happened in new

York was an accident.

The file says she has PTSD.

She sounds crazy to me.

Let's talk about Brian Coleman.

He has two wealthy dead wives

in his rear-view mirror.

Not to mention he's about to

collect five million dollars

on the estate.

- True.

But the lawyer you

spoke to confirmed

that he wasn't planning

on asking for any money

in the divorce.

That could've been part

of his premeditated plan.

You saw the texts

and the tracker.

Claire Donahue wanted

Brian Coleman for herself.

Do we really think

that anyone could get

that obsessed so quickly?

They'd only just met.

I've seen it happen before.

[Phone buzzes]

The judge signed my warrant.

What are you waiting for?

♪

I remember Brian saying

that he had a stepdaughter.

Well, did he tell you her name?

No. But there was an obit

for his wife I saw online.

Anna: Can you find it?

Lisa Coleman, 38, Trenton.

Survived by her daughter,

Madison Kennedy,

and her parents,

Jack and Tina sallow.

I wonder if Madison

still lives in Trenton?

[Keys clicking]

Nothing's coming up.

No social media.

No job link.

That's strange.

Her mother's maiden

name is sallow.

Look at this.

Well, that must've been

before Brian came along.

Is there an address listed?

No. But I can reverse

image search it.

See if it's listed on

any real estate sites.

Got it. 12 poppy Lane.

You should have never gone

nosing around in my

business, Claire.

That's a bad idea.

I'm going to keep

my promise, dad.

Don't worry.

I guess I'm going to Trenton,

to try to find Madison.

I'm coming with you.

No!

Sorry, mom.

I'm just, I'm a little on edge.

Sophia said that the police

are probably trying to get

a search warrant for

my house too so...

I need you to stay up-to-date

on what they're doing.

I don't think you should go.

We need to tell the police.

I can't trust anyone right now!

(Sigh)

♪

[Knock at door]

[Door opens]

Madison.

Can I help you?

You don't know me.

My name is Claire Donahue.

I was hoping to ask you a few

questions about Brian Coleman.

Um, I can't help

you. I'm sorry.

Madison, please.

♪

I think he's trying to

frame me for murder.

Murder?

Ok, come in.

[Door closes]

♪♪

Brian's new wife

was just murdered.

And I think that he did it.

I can't believe this

is happening again!

Again?

He's dangerous.

Very dangerous.

You don't want to mess with him.

He is messing with me.

Did he do something to your mom?

He, uh, either killed her or

drove her to kill herself.

Pick your poison.

Why would he want her dead?

Money.

He convinced my mom to leave him

half of everything in her will.

And did he get it?

Mm.

She secretly changed it a

few days before she died.

Why?

She feared him near the end.

She was going to

file for divorce

but never got the chance.

Madison, did you tell

the police all this?

They wouldn't listen to me.

Since she had a

history of depression,

they ruled it a suicide.

They said there was no

evidence to prove otherwise.

I want to show you her journal.

Brian was mentally

torturing her.

♪

[Door squeaks open]

Did you hear that?

Yeah.

[Door closes]

[Doors close]

Does anyone else know

you were coming?

Just my mom.

Someone's in the house.

Hi. We need the

police right away.

There's an intruder inside

the house at 12 poppy Lane.

Madison: Come help

me move this.

♪♪

[Heavy scraping]

[Door rattling violently]

Open the door, Madison.

It's over.

What's she got in

there? Come on!

[Clank]

Madison!

Madison.

[Doorbell rings]

Are you ok?

♪

Help is on the way.

But I can't stay here.

Go. I'll be ok.

I'm so sorry.

♪

[Siren starts up]

♪

What am I gonna do?

[Car starts up]

[Beep]

Call mom.

[Phone rings]

Claire! Where are you? I

need you to come home!

I can't right now.

Sophia said there's now a

warrant out for your arrest

and the police were here.

They found Brian's house key

and a photo of him and his wife.

- What?

I have to go.

Well, where are you going?

Dad's place. I think he can

help me with something.

[Beep]

[Knocking]

[Door rattles open]

Claire!

Dad.

I need your help.

The police are after me.

What?

Is the house still

in grandpa's name?

Yes.

Then they probably

won't find me here.

[Door squeaks closed]

Why didn't you come to

me sooner on all this?

Dad, our relationship hasn't

exactly been a greeting card.

I know. And I’m

sorry for that.

Well, maybe you should've

thought about that

before you made the

choices that you did.

I deserved that.

How's your mom?

She's all right.

Biggest regret of my life,

hurting her, and you.

But now.

We gotta get you

out of this mess.

Since you know so

much about computers,

I was hoping that maybe you

could take a look at mine.

♪

Dad: You said you

thought this Brian guy

always seems to

know where you are.

Might have been faking texts,

posting on social media?

Did he ever have access

to your phone or computer?

Well, he was at my

house so, I guess.

♪

Claire: What are you doing?

I'm checking your virtual ports.

He may have installed spyware.

Just as I thought.

A key logger.

What's a key logger?

Dad: It records every

keystroke you make

on your keyboard.

He's probably got

all your passwords.

And he can log in

remotely, which means

he can watch you

through your camera.

Oh my god!

What about my phone?

- It's hot.

- What does that mean?

- Classic sign of a key logger.

Has your battery been

draining quickly?

Is it slow?

Yeah. Come to think of it.

The file will end in APK

if it's been infected.

(Sigh)

Here it is. He's got

your phone too.

You know, there are

all kinds of ways

to spoof calls and texts.

Son of a bitch!

I have a lot stronger

things I'd like to say.

Well, I guess it pays to have

a software engineer for a dad.

So, I need to destroy this.

He probably knows where I am.

I told mom that I

was coming here.

I doubt he'll find this place.

Plus, I'm installing

anti-virus software

so there's no need

to destroy anything.

[Ring signal]

911: What's your emergency?

I would like to report

the whereabouts

of a fugitive from Philadelphia.

We need to go to the police.

No, I'm not sure it's enough

with everything that

they have on me.

And will this even

trace back to Brian?

Probably not, if he's

covered his tracks.

I should go.

I don't want to

get you in trouble.

I'm your dad!

I'd take a bullet for you.

You don't need to go anywhere.

I've changed, Claire.

I realize now what's

important in life.

Family.

I stopped going out.

Drinking.

I haven't been with

a woman in months.

I'm even in therapy.

(Laughs) Really?

I want to be a better man.

I'm sorry for what I did.

[Sniff]

Well, an apology

is a good start.

I'm gonna go to sleep.

Ok. Tomorrow, we'll

come up with a plan.

Yeah, if I have a tomorrow.

♪

[Loud banging on door]

Police! Open up!

Dad!

Ok. I'm going to drive your

car out of here real fast

and when I do, they're

coming after me

and you're going out that door!

Dad, I can't let you!

Bullet, remember?

Ok, just get ready!

You, take the back.

[Banging]

We're going in!

[Tire screech]

[Engine roar]

Let's go!

Go! Go! Go!

[Multiple sirens wail]

[Car door slams]

[Door opens]

♪♪

[Phone rings]

Hello?

Mom. It's me.

- Claire! I've been

worried sick.

-I'm ok. Are the

police there?

-No. But they were,

and I've noticed

an unmarked car has

driven by several times.

Oh please, just tell

me where you are.

I'll come and get you.

I'll, I can take you to Sophia.

She can tell us what to do.

-Not yet.

Please, Claire.

- I have to prove I didn't

do this. I love you, mom.

Love you. Be careful, please.

♪

[Knocking on glass door]

I had nowhere else to go. I hope

it's ok that I came here.

Yeah, of course.

Um, you're all over the news.

The police think

you killed Margaret.

I know.

Ok. Um, what are

you going to do?

Prove that I didn't.

You believe me, right?

Yeah, but how are you

going to prove it?

I went to Brian's

stepdaughter's place.

He broke in while

I was at the house.

What?

I think he killed

his other wife.

But then wouldn't

he be in prison?

Madison said that no

one would believe her.

But, with this

new murder, I mean,

maybe they'll reopen the case.

That reminds me.

I need to search

the number for Trenton

park hospital.

Hi. I'm calling to

check on a patient.

Madison Kennedy.

She, uh, was brought

in the other day.

Is she ok?

Thanks. I understand.

What did they say?

They can't give out that kind

of information on the phone.

Ok, Claire.

I'm saying this for your

own good, all right?

I think you should

turn yourself in.

Tell the police that

Brian's been stalking you.

No.

He will find a way to

make them not believe me.

I have a better idea.

There was a ranger

at briarwood park

the day that I was with Brian.

Maybe he could vouch for

how nice he was to me

and prove that Brian's

been lying to the police.

Ok, so, tell the police

about the ranger.

They can help you.

Not yet.

Ok. This is spiraling

out of control.

I mean, now your

dad's in trouble...

How'd you know about my dad?

It was on the news.

Oh.

Claire. I'm just trying to

help. You know that, right?

Could you take me to the park?

Yeah, if you think

that'll help, sure.

And why don't you borrow

some of my clothes?

You had a long night.

Take anything you want, ok?

I have a extra toothbrush

in my spare bathroom.

Thanks, Tiffany.

Yeah.

♪

[Doors close]

Let's look around.

[Cracking sound]

Did you hear that?

Oh, oh, oh.

Am I ever glad to see you.

I don't hear that every day.

Can I ask you a question?

Dale.

That's what I'm here for.

Do you recognize me

from here at the trail?

Yeah. I saw you the other day

with your boyfriend, right?

Running?

- Yes.

Uh, and why did you think

that he was my boyfriend?

Well, you guys

looked like a couple.

You were playful.

Even, laughing I think?

Would you be willing to

tell the police that?

Can I ask what this is about?

The man that I was

with, Brian Coleman,

he told the police that

I'm obsessed with him.

And it has to do with a murder.

There's an investigation.

So, what do you have

me wrapped up in?

It's complicated.

But he's trying to frame me.

Please.

Well, what I saw is the truth.

So sure, I guess I could

talk to the police.

Would you be willing

to come with us now?

We could take you

to the station.

My shift's not over. But

I can go after work.

6th district.

My name is Claire Donahue.

Claire Donahue.

I got it.

Thank you.

♪

Agh!

[Thud]

Sorry, Dale.

But I can't have you

talking to the police.

Claire: I need to speak

with detective Bailey.

[Ring signal]

Bailey.

Detective. It's

Claire Donahue.

- Where are you?

Claire. You need to

turn yourself in. Now.

Do it now before you

get deeper into trouble.

- I didn't kill

Margaret Coleman.

Brian's framing me.

And we can talk about this.

Let me know where you are.

I'll come pick you up.

He put spyware on my

phone and my computer.

He planted that

photo in my house.

- I can help you.

In person.

- How'd you find me last night?

Was it from a tip?

A man called the

police, didn't he?

It was Brian!

Before I got to my dad's,

he tried to attack me

and his stepdaughter,

a woman named Madison Kennedy.

She's in a hospital in Trenton.

You need to speak with her.

And, also to a ranger

at briarwood park.

His name's Dale Mcnichol.

He saw Brian and me together.

I just talked to him.

We'll look into this.

Now, tell me where you are.

(Sigh) She seemed genuine.

Genuinely unhinged.

Can you drop me off?

♪

I'll be back at

your house later.

Yeah. It's the safest

place for you.

She's staying at

my place tonight...

Anna: Claire, I just

heard on the news.

That ranger was murdered.

What? Are you sure?

Mom, I was just at

briarwood park with...

Tiffany.

I gotta call Sophia now. Bye.

Hello?

- Sophia.

- Claire?

I need to see you right away.

- Ok. Where?

-Meet me at that place we used

to meet when we'd skip school.

When?

30 minutes.

Got it.

Can you see if you can find

any background on Tiffany?

Sure.

I'll explain when I see you.

Ok.

Thanks.

The dead park ranger is the

same one that Claire Donahue

said she talked to this morning.

That's a big coincidence.

I don't think this is

a coincidence at all.

Claire: It had to be Tiffany.

How else would Brian have known

that I was going

to be at the park?

And now the ranger's dead?

So I found out she's

originally from Atlanta.

She told us she was from Philly.

She lied.

You know Brian said

that he's from Atlanta.

I would bet anything that

they know each other.

They do. Her resumé

on linked up said

she worked at bistro

470 in Atlanta.

That was Brian's restaurant.

They are in on this together!

They have to be.

Think about it.

Tiffany would've

known that I had used

that letter opener at work.

And she's the one that

invited me to Galentine's

at Brian's restaurant.

I have totally been played.

Ok, so here's

what we're gonna do.

Thanks for helping me.

Yeah.

♪

[Door closes, engine starts]

[Gate squeaks and closes]

♪

[Door squeaks open]

[Sigh] Sleeping beauty.

Say goodnight, Claire.

[Gunshot]

♪

♪ [music ends] ♪

What the hell!

Freeze! Drop the gun!

Drop the gun!

You're under arrest for the

murder of Margaret Coleman.

♪ [Acoustic guitar intro] ♪

♪

You set me up? Why?

I had no other choice.

I had to save myself!

♪ [Young female

sings plaintively] ♪

♪

On behalf of Philly pd, we're

sorry for everything, Claire.

You did what you had to do.

Hey, I would've thought

I was guilty too.

Well, we got him.

That's all that matters now.

You're a tough lady.

Thank you for doing

what you did tonight.

♪

[Birdsong]

Sophia: Here you

go, ladies.

I brought you my best bottle.

No, we can't thank you

enough, Sophia.

Aw, well, a toast is in order.

Ah yes!

I just got off the phone

with detective Sanders.

Brian has officially been

charged with two murders...

And now that Madison is

talking to the police,

they're going to re-open

her mom's death, too.

Amazing!

Yeah.

You are a true friend, Sophia.

Unlike some people we know.

Uh, do not mention

that woman's name.

Hmm, not even to tell you that

she's officially been charged

with accessory to murder?

Well, that would be ok.

Mm mm hm.

The deal she made to turn

on Brian will help her,

but it doesn't exonerate her.

Did she say why she chose

me to carry out the plan?

She told the police that after

learning about your history,

she figured you'd

make a perfect patsy.

Wow.

Yeah.

Get this.

She also worked in Trenton.

Odds are good that she was

in on Brian's other plan.

[Doorbell rings]

I wonder who that is.

Uh, I'll get it.

- Ok.

Claire: Hope she likes

the surprise.

Mick!

Anna.

I thought you ladies

might be hungry.

Yeah. Come on in.

♪ [Upbeat music] ♪

Pizza's here!

Well, I am starving.

Hey, well, let's eat.

Ok.

Oh, do you wanna get

the placemats?

♪

Captions by:

Sas Harris

♪

Galentine's Day Nightmare (2021) - full transcript