Moby Dick – Ep.2
RECAP IN
CAPTION:
Last time on
Moby Dick...
ISHMAEL and PIP.
ISHMAEL
Call me Ishmael.
PIP
Pip.
ISHMAEL
Nice to meet you Pip.
CUT TO:
AHAB sits with ELIZABETH. She sits on the arm of
his chair. Stroking his face.
AHAB
He’s just a whale.
ELIZABETH
You have something in mind.
CUT TO:
AHAB walks with CASPIAN.
AHAB (V.O)
What's your news?
STARBUCK (V.O.)
She’s not ready.
AHAB (V.O)
Do it. Make her seaworthy.
CUT TO:
AHAB talks to STARBUCK.
STARBUCK
In all good conscience, I cannot sanction...
AHAB interrupts.
AHAB
So says the great Starbuck. The authority on all
that’s right and proper.
1
Moby Dick – Ep.2
CUT TO:
ISHMAEL walks with QUEEQUEQ.
STARBUCK (V.O)
I will have no man in my boat...
CUT TO:
STARBUCK (V.O)(CONT’D)
... who is not afraid of a whale.
CUT TO:
ISHMAEL is obviously unsettled, he turns to his
friend.
ISHMAEL
Have we picked the right ship?
CUT TO:
At sea.
ELIJAH (V.O)
If he goes to sea again...
CUT TO:
ELIJAH with ELIZABETH.
ELIJAH (CONT)
...he will die. And he knows it.
CUT TO:
ELIZABETH with AHAB.
AHAB
Prophecy is for the weak minded.
CUT TO:
STARBUCK walks with the other sailors towards the
ship.
AHAB(V.O)
I make my own destiny.
CUT TO:
The ship sails.
AHAB (V.O)
What do you say boys?
2
Moby Dick – Ep.2
CUT TO:
AHAB addresses his crew.
AHAB
Will you chase him with me? Across both sides of
land and all sides of earth –will you do it?
CREW
Yeeeessss!
AHAB and his crew chant with him.
AHAB & CREW
Moby Dick, Moby Dick, Moby Dick.
CUT TO:
AHAB
Mutiny's a sin is it not?
He passes STARBUCK the jug.
AHAB (CONT’D(
Right Mr Starbuck?
CUT TO:
QUEEQUEG with DAGGOO.
DAGGOO
You strike with a strong hand and a good heart.
QUEEQUEG
And you give thanks to the whale.
CUT TO:
The men sit.
STEELKILT
Has he found us any whales?
TASHTEGO
Patience brother.
STEELKILT
All we're being given are promises and we can't
fill our bellies on promises.
PERTH
The whole ship’s on a promise.
CUT TO:
STUBB talking to QUEEQUEQ.
3
Moby Dick – Ep.2
STUBB
You don’t get to give me orders sailor.
CUT TO:
ISHMAEL addressing AHAB.
ISHMAEL
You think I'm scared sir? I'm not scared.
AHAB grabs ISHMAEL and tackles him to the floor.
AHAB
You go out in a little boat. It’s a tiny little
thing.
CUT TO:
We see the whales in the sea.
AHAB (V.O.) (CONT’D)
With a few lances up against this....
CUT TO:
AHAB stands in his sailboat.
AHAB (V.O) (CONT’D)
...angry mountain.
CUT TO:
STUBB in his boat, QUEEQUEQ ready with a harpoon.
STUBB
Quickly now let’s kill this bastard.
STARBUCK screaming in his
through the sea by the whale.
boat
being
dragged
STARBUCK
Here we go, here we go.
Cheers from the crew.
CUT TO:
MOBY DICK swims through the seas.
STARBUCK (V.O)
We’re being dragged by the Bank of England boys.
CUT TO:
AHAB's, the only boat still afloat. He is still
staring out after where MOBY DICK dived.
4
Moby Dick – Ep.2
AHAB
A wire beneath the air, he’s there though boys I
can feel him.
CUT TO:
Under water.
CUT TO:
AHAB's boat and crew are thrown into air by an
enormous force. MOBY DICK rises out of the sea – he
has found them! Screams from the crew.
CUT TO:
The whale is dead beside the boats.
AHAB (O.S.)
Moby Dick, he hasn’t finished with me yet.
AHAB laughing.
FADE TO BLACK.
TITLE CARD: MOBY DICK
ISHMAEL (V.O)
We had chased the whale over the watery moors,
slaughtered her in the valleys of the deep...
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - NIGHT.
ISHMAEL (V.O.) (CONT’D)
...and then towed her along side and beheaded her.
Her great padded skin was the property of her
execution and no sooner had we de-cantered her oil
into the casks then we would be off again to fight
another whale.
How long can Levithian endure so
wider chase.
*** AMBIENTE 00:05:10:13
BG Crew chatter, there is no significant speech
here
Everyone is working at securing the whale to the
PEQUOD. AHAB sits watching the crew.
STARBUCK
Klaus Don’t make Mr Stubbs tell you.
FLASK (Singing - Haul away Jo)
AHAB
5
Moby Dick – Ep.2
Wasn't so bad was it man?
He indicates the carcass, now fast to the ship.
AHAB (CONT'D)
Applause for Mr. Stubb! He has killed his whale!
The crew cheer.
AHAB (CONT’D)
A hundred and fifty barrels of oil in her.
Turns to the men.
AHAB (CONT'D)
That's the way to do it when an old bull whale
comes at you! Stand firm! We'll have him on the
other side of the ship before morning!
ISHMAEL
Won’t it be gone by then captain?
AHAB
Why do you say that?
ISHMAEL
The old bulls don’t stay round the herd long do
they?
AHAB
You read that in a book did you?
ISHMAEL
I did indeed sir.
AHAB
If I knew what the whale was going to do I’d be a
very rich man boy!
AHAB turns to STARBUCK.
AHAB (CONT’D)
Mr Starbuck make sure
They've earned it.
these
men
have
a
drink.
Cheers from the crew.
TASHTEGO
Will he be back sir...
AHAB
He'll be back. Someone hung up my wife on a hook
I'd be back!
Laughter.
6
Moby Dick – Ep.2
AHAB (CONT’D)
And when he comes we'll be ready for him will we
not?
QUEEQUEG & CREW
Aye.
ISHMAEL
Yes captain.
STARBUCK is not convinced.
Singing in b/g. (Haul away Jo)
CREW
Heave...heave... heave...
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - NIGHT.
Singing continues. Work continues.
STUBB
More slack.
ISHMAEL
pipe.
is
looking
for
PIP.
AHAB
sits
with
his
ISHMAEL
Where’s Pip? Has anyone seen Pip since we hit the
water? Queequeg have you seen Pip?
QUEEQUEG
No. Not seen him.
*** AMBIENTE 06:36Crew efforts and activity only
DAGGOO
Have you checked below?
ISHMAEL
Pip?
ISHMAEL passes
capstan.
STUBB
as
he
is
heaving
on
the
ISHMAEL (CONT’D)
Mr. Stubb have you seen Pip?
STUBB doesn't have time for this.
STUBB
Don't talk to me about that boy!
The men do so. STUBB shouts across to ISHMAEL.
7
Moby Dick – Ep.2
STUBB (CONT'D)
You get you down
barrels!
below
decks!
And
move
some
*** AMBIENTE 06:50
Crew efforts and activity
*** STUBB
06:59 (¿?)
“Now we peel her like an orange”
ISHMAEL is really worried. He moves to the side of
the ship and sees STUBB's boat, still lowered and
hidden from the crew by the bulk of the dead whale.
ISHMAEL
Pip? Pip?
He jumps over the side, into the boat. With some
difficulty he rows the heavy craft away from the
PEQUOD. AHAB watches.
EXT. ISHMAEL'S WHALEBOAT - NIGHT.
ISHMAEL rows the boat into the dark sea.
ISHMAEL
Pip! Pip!
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - NIGHT.
The crew are cutting the whale up and cooking and
boiling parts of the body.
STUBB
That’s more than fifty barrels. More than fifty.
AHAB watches the activity.
EXT. ISHMAEL'S WHALEBOAT - NIGHT.
ISHMAEL rows the boat into the dark sea.
INT. SEA - NIGHT.
The underneath of ISHMAEL’S boat gliding through
the water.
EXT. ISHMAEL'S WHALEBOAT - NIGHT.
8
Moby Dick – Ep.2
He stops. He has heard something. ISHMAEL clings
onto the boat, terrified, unable to breathe. Then
suddenly his boat is spinning furiously.
And then, suddenly, the white fluke goes up:
dappled with moonlight as MOBY DICK dives. It is
too amazing for him to be frightened. Then it is
gone.
ISHMAEL cannot believe what he sees.
PIP
Ishmael, Ishmael, Ishmael help me please, I’m over
here.
ISHMAEL
Pip! Pip!
PIP
Help me!
PIP is in the water trying to keep himself afloat.
ISHMAEL
I’m coming Pip, I’m coming.
He rows towards PIP and reaches to him in the sea.
ISHMAEL (CONT'D)
Okay boy, okay, okay come on sailor, come here.
Grab the oar, grab the oar.
ISHMAEL hauls him aboard.
ISHMAEL (CONT'D)
I got you, you are safe. You are safe, I got you.
PIP curls up in the bottom of the boat.
Wide-shot of the PEQUOD in the far background.
EXT PEQUOD - NIGHT.
STUBB is supervising.
STUBB
Feed the flames boys! She’ll burn herself up! Can
you squash me up a steak cooked rare mind! Smells
like the left wing of the day of judgement does it
not?
STARBUCK approaches.
We hear in b/g:
9
Moby Dick – Ep.2
ISHMAEL (O.S.)
Can I have some help here.
EXT. ALONGSIDE PEQUOD - NIGHT
ISHMAEL has brought the boat in under the shelter
of the PEQUOD.
ISHMAEL (CONT’D)
Some help?
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - NIGHT.
AHAB calls to the crew.
AHAB
Man down, larboard side. Need some help.
STUBB and STARBUCK, both go to the side of the
ship. They see ISHMAEL, with PIP.
EXT. ALONGSIDE PEQUOD / MAIN DECK - NIGHT
ISHMAEL throws rope to AHAB.
STARBUCK
Got it, got it, got it, got it, got it. Alright
ready, one, two three.
ISHMAEL
STUBB.
holding
PIP
passes
him
to
STARBUCK
and
The put the boy down safely. STUBB is furious.
STUBB
What in God's name do you think you're doing boy?
AHAB
Rescuing a member of the ship's company Mr. Stubb.
STUBB
I thought I told you to move some barrels.
ISHMAEL doesn't answer, and no-one defends STUBB's
statement.
STUBB (CONT'D)
Time is money! Right get back to work!
OFF
*** 10:08
Starbuck “Alright he's freezing, he's
10
Moby Dick – Ep.2
freezing...”
STUBB, frustrated,
others.
goes
back
to
supervising
the
ISHMAEL
He must have got swept overboard sir.
AHAB
(gentle, to Pip)
We’ll have to bring him on down the captain’s
quarters. What you need, young man is a glass of
whisky.
ISHMAEL
(whispers to AHAB)
Sir, I saw him sir. I saw the white whale sir.
AHAB is electrified by this news.
AHAB
Where? Where did you see him? Exactly...
ISHMAEL
Where Mr. Stubb killed his whale.
AHAB turns to the crew working.
AHAB
Let's get rid of this creature! Work to be done! I
want her off my ship! And I want men on both masts,
double watch, all night!
AHAB whispers to ISHMAEL.
AHAB (CONT'D)
He won't stay long, I bet.
Then a sudden snap into decisiveness. He turns to
ISHMAEL.
AHAB (CONT'D)
Come take care of your lad.
ISHMAEL
Sir.
STARBUCK watches them go. STUBB is giving orders.
STUBB
Right Tash, Daggoo, Queqeeq, Michigan. Down below!
The men stop and do as they are told.
11
Moby Dick – Ep.2
INT. AHAB'S CABIN, PEQUOD - NIGHT.
PIP is carried into the cabin and laid down on the
bed. AHAB walks over with a drink and puts it to
his lips.
AHAB
You know...
PIP sips it and splutters.
PIP
Sir...
PIP is exhausted. AHAB turns to ISHMAEL.
AHAB
He breached? At a distance?
ISHMAEL indicates with his hands.
ISHMAEL
This close to me. I could have touched him. Then he
dived. He is, he is beautiful sir.
AHAB
As if he was showing you. "I'm here!" "This is my
territory!"
ISHMAEL
No...
AHAB
Your very presence was a challenge to him. And if
you challenge him, this creature changes lives.
ISHMAEL
But I didn't challenge him.
AHAB
Anyone who shares his spirit is a challenge to him.
He thinks he owns the ocean.
ISHMAEL
I felt his strength sir, I felt the presence.
ISHMAEL just watches AHAB as the old captain
thinks, and reminisces. He grabs the chain that is
round the pole and holds it tight.
AHAB
I was in his mouth Ishmael. His mouth, Imagine! And
afterwards, for a while, I was like a madman.
I sometimes wonder if Mr. Starbuck thinks I am not
deviated from that position. Do you think that?
12
Moby Dick – Ep.2
ISHMAEL
No sir. I don’t, I don’t think that.
AHAB
You were close to him. You understand.
ISHMAEL
Yes.
AHAB
"Moby Dick". Just saying it is enough to scare the
hell out of a man. Yes? He’s white. He’s the pallor
on the cheeks of the dead. Ever seen a dead man?
ISHMAEL
No, sir.
AHAB
We paint such pretty things on the universe. But in
fact it is all space. It’s all emptiness. It’s all
whiteness. Like the whale.
ISHMAEL just watches on, still shocked, uncertain.
AHAB (CONT'D)
Oh, he's in your
heart.
blood
now.
He's
clutched
your
EXT. PEQUOD - NIGHT.
Frantic activity as the whale-processing continues.
STUBB, quite clearly, is in charge and loving every
moment. STEELKIT approaches and is stopped by
STUBB.
STUBB
Where do you think you are going?
Get back down
there. This is my whale Steelkilt.
Check every
barrel. Leaks costs money and I want every drop of
this bitch!
STEELKILT
What did I do wrong?
STUBB (O.S)
Get that skin on the fire!
QUEEQUEG
There’s nothing wrong. This is whaling.
TASHTEGO
You'll get used to it friend. By the time you get
out of here, you'll be as black as the rest of us.
13
Moby Dick – Ep.2
INT. AHAB'S CABIN, PEQUOD - NIGHT.
PIP is asleep. AHAB is with ISHMAEL.
AHAB
Let that go.
He lets go of one of he maps and AHAB shows ISHMAEL
the map that he was working on in his study back in
Nantucket - the ocean sectioned off by those lines.
AHAB (CONT’D)
Do you know what these are?
ISHMAEL
No.
AHAB
They call them the veins.
ISHMAEL
Like the veins in your body?
AHAB
That's it. Veins. That carry the blood round your
body. The blood goes down... and round... and back.
And these are the tracks that the whale makes. Just
like the tracks a swallow makes - going South to
find warmer weather. We make tracks too. Going this
way and that across the globe – looking for food
and shelter.
ISHMAEL focuses on the maps.
ISHMAEL
You could lose him so easily... once he's on the
move..
AHAB
Of course. Of course. Of course he could go
anywhere... He has the whole world at his disposal.
But he's here. Standing his ground. Waiting.
ISHMAEL
Waiting.
AHAB
Here. Now.
Silence. And as AHAB thinks about this STARBUCK
comes in.
AHAB(CONT’D)
Later, Mr. Starbuck.
So STARBUCK goes and AHAB and ISHMAEL continue.
14
Moby Dick – Ep.2
AHAB(CONT’D)
Now...
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - NIGHT.
***
AMBIENTE
15:19
Crew BG Activity only
The men work away at processing the whale.
SAILOR
That’s sharp enough to cut the wind. Here hand me
that one. No, no, that one...
STARBUCK watches from the side.
He prays softly to himself.
STARBUCK
Our Father, who art in heaven
Hallowed by Thy Name;
SAILOR
Don’t use so much wood. It won’t be the only whale.
STARBUCK
They kingdom come,
They will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us;
And lead us not into temptation,
And deliver us from evil,
For thine is the kingdom,
And the power and the glory.
INT. SEA - DAY.
MOBY DICK lurks in the waters.
EXT. PEQUOD - DAY.
The ship sails.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
The female whale's carcass has been set adrift but the head, battered by sharks, is still hung on
the deck of the PEQUOD.
15
Moby Dick – Ep.2
AHAB
Most excellent head. You have dived deep - where no
man goes. Seen enough to split the planets. You've
been where untold hopes and anchors rot. And have
not a word to say. And now we do anything we like
with you. We turn you into hard cash. Into heat and
light for all America
STUBB
Captain AHAB
Big isn't she?
STUBB
She has sisters even bigger! And we can see them.
They are spouting.
EXT. SEA - DAY.
The seagulls are spouting in the distance above a
pod of whales.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
AHAB
I don't think we need to concern ourselves with
this one's sisters. There is only one whale. Moby
Dick.
CREW (O.S.)
Moby Dick.
He gestures to ISHMAEL
AHAB
This lad here saw him. Last night. He's not more
than a few hundred yards away.
STEELKILT
Let's get out of here as fast as possible then...
This gets a small laugh, soon stopped by AHAB's
gaze.
AHAB
No need to be afraid of him boys.
STUBB
I never said I was scared captain.
AHAB
He's the one who's scared. The white whale.
16
Moby Dick – Ep.2
STUBB
We don't even know where this white whale is.
ISHMAEL
I think we do sir. Look at those birds. On the
starboard bow. Look at all those birds sir.
EXT. OPEN SEA AND MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
A flock of gulls is flying away from the herd of
females and there's the huge white wake of MOBY
DICK...
QUEEQUEG
That’s him. That him all right!
AHAB
He's moving off! Stand by and put up sail! Make
course North East Mr. Starbuck!
STEELKILT addresses the sailors directly.
STEELKILT
This is crazy lads.
FLASK
Hold your tongue.
STEELKIT
You all saw that thing. You all did. We go up
against it and we’ll die.
FLASK
Know your place!
AHAB addresses the men directly.
AHAB
Didn't we swear an oath? Death to Moby Dick?
The crew show their support.
QUEEQUEG
Aye.
AHAB
Are we to turn our backs on our duty gentlemen?
Shall we doff our caps and make way? Carry on!
Proceed! Sir whale who are we to interrupt your
progress through the world? Make war on the whole
damn fishery! He’s evil. He’s evil. He will kill
and maim and plunder the seas until we stop him.
STARBUCK
I thought you said there was no danger in him, sir.
17
Moby Dick – Ep.2
AHAB
There is danger when I say there is Mr. Starbuck.
STUBB
Captain, what in god’s name are we doing? We are
turning our back on three hundred barrels to chase
a white whale we...
AHAB
We? I am giving orders Mr Stubb. You are obeying
them as is your duty.
All CREW are watching them.
AHAB (CONT’D)
North East all hands.
The crew start moving.
AHAB (CONT’D)
Get the head off my ship!
SAILOR (O.S.)
Aye captain!
And the crew go to their stations.
AHAB (O.S.)
Follow those birds?
SAILOR
Get the five to one, six to one??
QUEEQUEG
and
exhilarated.
STARBUCK watches.
ISHMAEL
climb
the
rattlings,
AHAB calls out.
ISHMAEL points to the sea.
ISHMAEL
There it is, there it is.
SAILOR
Look how big he is.
QUEEQUEG
Moves quick!
ISHMAEL
Oh my god he’s enormous!
They watch the retreating trail of MOBY DICK and
the birds following.
18
Moby Dick – Ep.2
INT. SEA - DAY.
MOBY DICK is lurking.
EXT. RIGGING, PEQUOD / MAIN DECK - DAY.
ISHMAEL and QUEEQUEG are looking out at MOBY DICK'S
path, which shines in the sun.
QUEEQUEG
He’s coming around!
AHAB looks out. STARBUCK is frightened.
AHAB
Take in the sails.
SAILOR
He’ll smash us to pieces.
EXT.S EA - DAY.
MOBY DICK is in sight.
EXT. RIGGING / MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
ISHMAEL and QUEEQUEG are looking out at MOBY DICK'S
path.
ISHMAEL
He’s turning!
STARBUCK reacts instantly with orders to the CREW.
STARBUCK
Take down the squares.
CREW
Squares.
The men jump to the task.
AHAB
So, this is this your ship, now Mr. Starbuck?
STARBUCK
He is trying to ram us.
AHAB
On no account lower any sails! I will have no man
in my ship who is afraid of a whale.
19
Moby Dick – Ep.2
STARBUCK
You misquote me, sir.
AHAB
All my words are my own Mr. Starbuck. You would do
well to remember that.
We hear sailors pray in the b/g.
ISHMAEL and QUEEQUEG are getting worried...
ISHMAEL
Closing sir! Three hundred yards!
EXT. SEA - DAY.
The boat sails in rough waters.
EXT. RIGGING / MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
ISHMAEL and QUEEQUEG still up there.
ISHMAEL
Two hundred and fifty yards captain! Straight at us
sir.
*** AMBIENTE 19:50
Satrbuck “He's coming straight at us sir!”
Crew shouts panic prayer and activity
Down on the deck AHAB calls to the crew.
AHAB
Lower boats!
There’s a rush of activity.
INT. SEA - DAY.
MOBY DICK is nearly there.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
AHAB and STARBUCK are petrified they know what will
happen.
Some of the men are praying.
And then MOBY DICK sounds. He dives, frighteningly
close to the ship.
20
Moby Dick – Ep.2
ISHMAEL (O.S)
He's sounding!
AHAB reacts, stops in his tracks.
AHAB
Hold it there!
Everyone
moment.
stops
what
they
are
doing.
A
frozen
QUEEQUEQ (O.S.)
Where go the white devil?
AHAB
He dived!
INT. SEA- DAY.
MOBY DICK is moving away.
EXT. RIGGING, PEQUOD - DAY.
ISHMAEL and QUEEQUEG looking down at the sea.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
SAILOR
He’s gone!
STUBB
Orders captain?
AHAB
Wait! Now you can take in sail Mr. Starbuck!
STARBUCK
Have you lost your mind? Are we to wait for him to
strike us from below?
AHAB
And you sir? What have you lost? He's here man!
He's almost in our grasp! Have you lost all
courage?
All on the ship are in silence. Tense with fear as
they wait.
AHAB (CONT’D)
Where is he? What's his strategy?
STUBB
He's gone!
21
Moby Dick – Ep.2
AHAB
(furious)
Gone? Gone?
He moves to the rail of the ship and hits the side
with his stick.
AHAB (CONT'D)
Do not imagine that you can escape for I swear that
you will not! At every crossroads of the sea I will
be there until I see you spout black blood, roll
back into the sea and die!
This display has gone further than AHAB meant.
STUBB
What about the girls captain?
Looks like there’s
thirty of them playing not spooked. They’re waiting
for us, shall we turn back? Please sir let’s turn
back.
AHAB
He's headed North East. Towards the South China
Sea. That's where we'll go.
AHAB turns to the crew.
AHAB (CONT'D)
North East! All hands!
STARBUCK still hasn't given orders
AHAB (CONT'D)
What are you waiting for Mr. Starbuck?
STARBUCK
You really think you can track one whale. Across
all that ocean?
AHAB
Of course. Now - will you give that order? Or do I
have to do your job as well as my own? Last time I
looked you were my first mate. Or is it time for
more restraint?
STARBUCK
As I told you before. You were not yourself.
AHAB pauses then moves up towards STARBUCK.
AHAB
Is, is Ahab here? Or some other man. I seem to know
myself quite well. I answer my name when I call
myself. "Ahab!" "Ahab Present and correct!" "Ahab!"
I repeat. Will you give the order?
22
Moby Dick – Ep.2
STARBUCK
North East! Keep on all sails! Cram on all you can!
STUBB
North East, top gallants! Cram on all you can!
The men do as they are told.
AHAB
Sharp eye for spouts!
ISHMAEL and QUEEQUEQ look down at him dumb founded.
STARBUCK is speechless.
AHAB (CONT’D)
A sharp eye.
EXT. SEA - DAY.
The ship sails.
INT. HOLD, PEQUOD - DAY.
It is fairly dark in here. ISHMAEL is watching them
but they do not know he is there.
STUBB has obviously brought STARBUCK down here for
purpose.
STUBB (O.S.)
That last voyage... after the white whale took his
leg...
STUBB knows there's a secret, and he's fishing for
it.
STUBB (CONT’D)
Rumour has it, you put him in a straight jacket...
STARBUCK
He was crazy. With
vengeance on a whale.
anger
and
hatred
he
swore
STUBB
Elijah spoke of a prophecy.
STARBUCK
In his fever the captain talked of his own death.
He saw a hearse on the water. And he was to die by
hanging...
STUBB
23
Moby Dick – Ep.2
The men don’t like it. We heard say he was a
bastard now. Chasing one whale across thousands of
miles of desolate ocean.
STARBUCK
But we have his address, Mr. Stubb. The South China
Sea!
They laugh: a release of tension.
STUBB
One whale may be enough for him Mr. Starbuck, but
for...
Then STUBB suddenly focuses on something.
He crouches down, picks something off the floor.
His fingertips glisten with oil.
STUBB (CONT'D)
Oil? We got ourselves a leak Mr Starbuck.
MR STARBUCK goes to look.
STARBUCK
Nice work, Mr. Stubb.
STUBB
We'll have to up Burtons. Stop the ship and check
every barrel.
STARBUCK
The captain is not going to like that.
STUBB
Well he can't go against it Mr. Starbuck. Because
if he does...
STARBUCK
It's proof plain he's not fit.
ISHMAEL has heard the entire conversation and they
can not see him there.
INT. FOC'SLE, PEQUOD - DAY.
ISHMAEL is
concerned.
talking
to
QUEEQUEG,
they
both
look
ISHMAEL
That's what they said Queequeg, not fit. It ain’t
right.
QUEEQUEG
It’s, not right. He Captain. These men.
24
Moby Dick – Ep.2
STEELKILT addresses the room in general.
STEELKILT
Does anyone know exactly where we’re headed?
ISHMAEL
Yeah. Twenty degrees East of North. Java. The White
whale's feeding grounds.
STEELKILT
And what are we going to do when we come up against
that thing?
ISHMAEL
Captain knows what he's doing. He has a plan. We,
just have to follow it.
QUEEQUEG
We do not speak against the captain.
ISHMAEL pauses for a moment in front of STEELKIT.
ISHMAEL
It’s a big fish, that’s all it is.
STEELKILT sits in silence.
INT. AHAB'S CABIN, PEQUOD - NIGHT.
AHAB is with QUEEQUEG and ISHMAEL.
AHAB
Is this a deputation?
QUEEQUEG
Aye captain.
AHAB
Don't tell me! It's the quality of the food!
He looks at them both, he seems amused.
AHAB
Come on.
They enter.
AHAB (CONT’D)
(to Ishmael)
Where he goes, you go, it seems.
ISHMAEL
Yes, sir.
AHAB
25
Moby Dick – Ep.2
That’s good. Friendship is the staff of life. Eh
Queequeg?
QUEEQUEG
Aye. Mr. Starbuck and Mr. Stubbs, not your friends
sir. They speak against you.
AHAB
You heard this?
QUEEQUEG.
Ishmael.
AHAB looks at him.
AHAB (CONT'D)
I had noticed. Is it any wonder? When we chase
Leviathan across the watery plains to slaughter him
in the valley of the deep. He makes the seas seethe
like a boiling pan and we aim to track him and kill
him. With whose help? Jesus Christ Our Lord and
Saviour? Although I am told he is Mr. Starbuck's
close and personal friend. I do not think so. We
are alone.
ISHMAEL
I'm not afraid sir.
AHAB
No. I can see that. Will you...look into the fire
with me. Wander out of the way of understanding.
QUEEQUEG
Queequeg afraid of nothing.
They hold hands.
ISHMAEL
Sir they are going to put it to you AHAB
I am not afraid of my crew young man.
A knock at the door. AHAB calmly takes his gun out
the draw and holds it.
AHAB (CONT'D)
Come!
STARBUCK and STUBB enter.
AHAB (CONT’D)
You may say anything you like in front of these
lads.
A silence. Then -
26
Moby Dick – Ep.2
STARBUCK
There's a leak in the hold. We have to up Burtons
and take a look.
AHAB
Are you telling me that we have to heave to for a
week to tinker with a parcel of old hoops?
STARBUCK
Those casks of oil are what we are here for sir.
AHAB
I am the captain of this ship. And I am telling you
that I want no more talk of casks of oil.
STARBUCK
I've sailed with you all my life. I mean you no
harm. The one you should fear is yourself old man.
AHAB looks at STARBUCK, and holds the gun close.
AHAB
Ahab beware Ahab.
STUBB cannot take his eyes off the gun.
AHAB (CONT’D)
Ahab beware Ahab.
something there.
reason.
There's something there. There's
We'll listen to the voice of
Then A BEAT as everyone waits to see what comes
next.
AHAB (CONT'D)
Tomorrow, gentlemen.
He shakes their hands and STARBUCK and STUBB leave.
AHAB puts his gun down.
EXT. PEQUOD - DAY.
The ship sails.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
It's early in the morning. The crew are on deck,
working. STUBB strides forward.
STUBB
All men stand for the Captain!
STARBUCK watches on as FLASK repeats the order.
27
Moby Dick – Ep.2
FLASK
All men stand for the Captain!
AHAB
Thank you Mr. Flask.
AHAB appears. The men gather to listen to their
Captain.
AHAB (CONT'D)
Up Burtons gentlemen! Furl the t'gallant sails!
Close reef topsails fore and aft! We pause here
awhile gentlemen! Can't lose our precious cargo!
Money! Here's to money and sweet reason!
AHAB turns to STUBB.
AHAB (CONT'D)
See to those casks Mr. Stubb.
STUBB jumps to it.
STUBB
You heard what the captain said gentlemen.
lay aloft!
Top men
AHAB
Were you not in charge of storing the barrels Mr.
Stubb?
STUBB
Yes, sir.
AHAB
This is a very serious matter Mr. Stubb. We are
engaged in a great enterprise here are we not? And
because of you we have to take days out. Now you
get to it and quickly too!
STUBB is humiliated, but he's not going to argue
against the Captain in public. He turns to the men
close by: which includes STEELKILT, QUEEQUEG and
ISHMAEL.
STUBB
You, you two and you down below!
AHAB
I need the boy here (whistles) Mr. Stubb.
AHAB singles ISHMAEL out.
AHAB (CONT'D)
Proceed.
To STARBUCK.
28
Moby Dick – Ep.2
AHAB (CONT'D)
Keep me informed Mr. Starbuck.
Boiling with frustration.
STUBB
Daggoo down below!
DAGGOO (O.S.)
Yes Mr Stubb.
STUBB
Just because you’re not looking at me don’t mean I
don’t see you boy.
DAGGOO
Yes Mr Stubb.
STUBB (O.S.)
Quickly now lads.
FLASK (O.S.)
You heard Mr. Stubb. Quickly!
The men get to work.
INT. HOLD, PEQUOD - DAY.
This is where the bulk of the casks are stored. It
is dark and very smelly.
STEELKILT is under a barrel, comes out.
DAGGOO
Come on boy.
STEELKILT
I can’t breath. I can’t do this. I can’t take it
anymore. Please don’t send me back. Please don’t
send me back.
STUBB
(to Steelkilt)
Michigan way you go!
STEELKIT can not take it.
STUBB (CONT’D)
There’s a barrel in there it’s leaking and you need
to find it.
STEELKILT
I can’t go back in there.
DAGGOO laughs.
29
Moby Dick – Ep.2
STUBB
Are you disobeying orders, sailor?
STEELKILT
No sir.
STEELKILT goes back and the others jam him in as he
struggles to get out.
STEELKILT
I can’t do it! I can’t do it – let me out, let me
out!
DAGGOO
Be nice.
STEELKILT
Let me out please! Please! Let me out!
DAGGOO, QUEEQUEG and TASHTEGO pull him
Struggling to catch his breath, STEELKIT
against a barrel.
out.
sits
STUBB
When you catch your breath Miss. You can go back to
work.
STEELKIT goes back under the barrels.
INT. SEA - DAY.
Pequod moving in the foreground.
and swims into the darkness.
Moby in b/g turns
INT. AHAB'S CABIN, PEQUOD - DAY.
ISHMAEL and AHAB are pouring over the charts.
ISHMAEL
How do you know... he'll be here? At this exact
point?
AHAB
There is nothing random in nature young man.
Animals return to the same spot again and again and
again. As do we... We think, imagine that we have
free will. But all the time, we are born entangled
in whale lines, enmeshed in a future that is laid
down for us as precisely as the way the rope runs
from the coil when the harpoon is thrown.
ISHMAEL
If we know what the future will be, why bother try
and change it?
30
Moby Dick – Ep.2
AHAB
Oh,
I
presume
you
are
referring
to
that
superstitious nonsense all the men are whispering?
Elijah. We give them prophets' names. They are not
prophets. He has a sermon on my approaching death.
He trots it up for anyone who will listen. But I
will die in the manner of my choosing boy.
ISHMAEL doesn't know what to say.
AHAB (CONT'D)
Our freedom lies in the struggle to escape what
fate's laid down for us. To make our future for
ourselves.
ISHMAEL
I couldn't agree more, sir.
AHAB
The first lowering will be to weaken him. That'll
be all. Quick throw, get out. Cut the lines if we
have to. Then, remember, he has no vision to his
rear. While he is still thrashing about this way
and that one boat comes in from behind.
ISHMAEL
The others should come in from the side...
AHAB
Where he can see them...
ISHMAEL
And distract him.
Once again he looks straight at ISHMAEL.
AHAB
I'll put you up on the mast head. And you look only
for him. You see another whale, or whales, you
don't... call it.
ISHMAEL
Yeah if that's what you want.
AHAB
No time for anything else.
EXT. PEQUOD - DAY.
The ship sails.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
31
Moby Dick – Ep.2
STEELKILT and his gang and QUEEQUEG, TASHTEGO and
DAGGOO are really shattered by the work.
STEELKILT
We get worked to death. And for what?
QUEEQUEG
Duty.
STEELKILT
Tell you – the only thing worse on this damned
ship, than the captain and that's –
STUBB appears.
STUBB
That is what?
STEELKILT
His creatures.
STUBB
I am no man's creature. Country boy. You remember
that.
STEELKILT
No? Mr. Stubb the great whale man. Turning us away
from a shoal to chase a fish he can't even see.
STUBB
Oh you’ve got some mouth on you Michigan, that’s
just the way I like it.
STUBB and STEELKILT face each other.
INT. AHAB'S CABIN, PEQUOD - DAY.
AHAB and ISHMAEL are talking over plans of their
strategy for killing MOBY DICK.
AHAB
Now... your friend Queequeg...
ISHMAEL
Is the best we have sir.
AHAB
Almost. But he is good. He can go in the second
boat. I will go in the lead. And then when Moby
Dick breaches...
We hear shouting from up on deck. It is STEELKILT's
voice but we only hear it indistinctly.
STEELKILT (O.S.)
32
Moby Dick – Ep.2
You touch and I swear to you, I will kill you, I
swear to you, do you hear me?
You dare touch me
and I will you!
ISHMAEL
What was that?
Stubb “Back off”
AHAB
Come along. Watch. Listen .
AHAB leaves, ISHMAEL follows.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD – DAY.
STEELKILT is being restrained.
STEELKILT
You don’t own me. If you touch me I'll kill you.
STUBB steps forward.
STUBB
Back off!
Sailor “Stop it!”
*** AMBIENTE 38:40
Sailor “Michigan don't do it back down!'
BG crew cheering either Stubb or Steelkilt
He turns on the
dangerous moment.
sailors
who
are
watching.
A
AHAB
Did you hear me? Or do I have to put you in the
hold? By God I'll do it!
A real shout of command.
AHAB (CONT'D)
Seize him! Seize him down! Down!
They restrain him. Watched by the whole crew.
STEELKILT
I told him. I told him if he’d touch me I’d kill
him.
AHAB
Of course.
33
Moby Dick – Ep.2
He turns,
mates.
suddenly,
to
the
sailors,
STEELKILT's
AHAB (CONT'D)
What shall we do? Flog him? Put him in irons in the
hold?
STEELKILT
You have no idea what it's like. The air's so foul.
You could die of it.
AHAB
It is the work of the ship. It has to be done. He
will be flogged, Mr. Starbuck. Those are my orders.
STARBUCK
If that's your order, sir.
STUBB
I'd like to
permission...
flog
him
myself
sir.
With
your
AHAB
Justice boys. That’s what gives us order, otherwise
we are nothing but animals. Put the sailor in the
hold for now. I will judge this business in the
morning. In my cabin. Mr. Starbuck, Mr. Stubb. You
will attend.
Indicating two crew members.
AHAB (CONT'D)
You too may attend - to see all's done fairly. Have
I done squarely by you lads?
LADS
Aye sir.
AHAB
We have matters of great importance in hand. I will
let nothing come in their way. We have to be as
one.
QUEEQUEQ
Aye sir.
AHAB (CONT'D)
Until tomorrow. Six bells.
AHAB turns and goes.
STARBUCK
You heard the captain.
STEELKILT is taken down. STUBB lingers.
34
Moby Dick – Ep.2
STUBB
We found the leak sir.
AHAB
Six bells, Mr. Stubb.
And AHAB goes, leaving a frustrated STUBB behind.
STUBB
Right back to work. Daggoo are you a passenger on
this ship or are you earning a living?
EXT. SEA – DAY
STUBB (V.O. – CONT’D)
Now move your black arse.
As the ship sails.
EXT. SEA - NIGHT.
The whales are in the sea.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
It's dawn and ISHMAEL is up the rigging. He looks
down and sees AHAB.
He shouts down.
ISHMAEL
Nothing sir! Nothing in sight as far as the horizon
sir!
STARBUCK passes.
STARBUCK
That boy would stare out the sun if you gave the
order.
INT. AHAB'S CABIN, PEQUOD - DAY.
AHAB is behind his desk. STARBUCK, STUBB and
STEELKILT are there with two of his mates - as well
as ISHMAEL, QUEEQUEG, TASHTEGO and DAGGOO.
AHAB
Mr. Stubb
matter?
-
shall
we
have
your
account
of
the
STUBB
I gave this man an order and he refused to obey it.
35
Moby Dick – Ep.2
AHAB
Cleaning out
Queequeq?
the
hold
is
a
dirty
business.
Aye
QUEEQUEG
Aye, Captain.
AHAB
He does not complain. We have a noble task at hand
boys. Are we to fight amongst ourselves?
STUBB
He needs to be taken in hand sir.
STARBUCK watches on, really concerned.
AHAB
Everyone on the quarter deck now. Mr Stubb he is
all yours. One, all one!
STEELKIT
Do you want us to fight?
AHAB
For the hold.
STARBUCK and ISHMAEL remain behind with AHAB.
STARBUCK
It’s not right.
AHAB
What, precisely, is not right Mr. Starbuck?
STARBUCK
What is happening here. Setting men against each
other like animals.
AHAB
Anything is permitted on this ship. You would do
well to remember that.
STARBUCK and ISHMAEL are the only ones left.
STARBUCK
Divide and rule. Is that the way? And so good order
crumbles.
ISHMAEL
I've heard Steelkilt speak STARBUCK
You are a foolish boy. This has nothing to do with
a breach of discipline. It has everything to do
with that damned white whale.
36
Moby Dick – Ep.2
Wearily, STARBUCK goes.
EXT. POOP DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
A circle of crew members on the deck. Nothing kicks
off until AHAB gives the nod. There is a silence then he does so.
The men go for each other. A really brutal fight.
***AMBIENTE 43:23-43:50
As before Crew shouts and reactions Some cheer
Stubb others cheer for Steelkilt
STARBUCK
Enough!
AHAB
When I say so Mr. Starbuck!
STUBB hits STEELKILT's head against the mast.
AHAB (CONT'D)
Enough Mr. Stubb!
STEELKILT falls to the ground.
AHAB turns to the crew.
AHAB (CONT'D)
There! That was a fair fight! Eh? It’s always a
fair fight. And we always win!
He pats some of his crew on the shoulder.
AHAB (CONT’D)
Throw some water over him lads!
STARBUCK
It isn't water he needs! He needs a surgeon!
AHAB
Sometimes dogs need kennelling Mr. Starbuck. And
mad dogs need restraint.
Then AHAB turns to STUBB.
AHAB (CONT'D)
Any further grievances, Mr. Stubb?
STUBB
No, sir.
37
Moby Dick – Ep.2
AHAB
And the leak is fixed, you say?
STUBB
Yes, sir.
AHAB
Then I trust you have no objections if we continue
on our business?
STUBB
No sir.
AHAB walks away with great dignity.
STUBB (CONT’)
Alright lads let’s get the poor bastard down below.
The crew help carry him.
CREW
Mind his head, gently, gently.
INT. FOC'SLE, PEQUOD - DAY.
QUEEQUEG is mixing up a poultice for STEELKILT. He
has a face like thunder. ISHMAEL enters and watches
him for a beat.
ISHMAEL
You all right, Queequeg?
QUEEQUEG remains impassive.
ISHMAEL (CONT'D)
Something wrong? With, with, with what happened to
Steelkilt? Queequeq. He kind of asked for it.
Right?
QUEEQUEG
Maybe we picked the wrong ship.
ISHMAEL
What?
And he carries on mixing the potion. STEELKILT
appears, carried by a couple of sailors who need
help carrying him.
SAILOR (O.S.)
We need help here.
ISHMAEL
We got him.
38
Moby Dick – Ep.2
He is unconscious his face covered in blood.
QUEEQUEG
Daggoo get blanket.
They lay him down on the floor.
QUEEQUEG (CONT’D)
Water.
QUEEQUEG starts
poultice.
to
work
on
his
face
with
the
EXT. SEA - DAY.
The Pequod sails on...
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
A new day. The crew are hard at work following
orders.
SAILOR
Hey just watch that twist. Make sure you coil it
tight or Mr Stubb will make us do it again.
ISHMAEL and QUEEQUEG are greasing the davits and
the hull of AHAB'S whaleboat. QUEEQUEG coughs and
splutters. ISHMAEL looks at him with concern.
ISHMAEL
You are not well Queequeg.
QUEEQUEG looks up, and we follow his gaze. There's
a small whaleboat on the horizon.
QUEEQUEG.
Boat.
STARBUCK picks up an eyeglass. STARBUCK'S P.O.V.
Through a spyglass: he moves from one little
whaleboat, to another, dotted in formation across
the sea.
STARBUCK (O.S)
They are in formation. They are doing a sweep.
ISHAMEL (O.S.)
Sir, sir ship....
ISHMAEL (CONT’D)
(calling out)
...larboard bow!
39
Moby Dick – Ep.2
EXT. OUT AT SEA - DAY.
A mothership: a whaler, coming over the horizon.
STARBUCK (O.S.)
It's the Rachel...
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
STARBUCK (CONT’D)
...out of Nantucket. Go and tell the
They're looking for something or someone.
Captain.
EXT. SAILBOAT / PEQUOD - DAY.
The sailboat approaches
shouts to them.
the
PEQUOD
the
CAPTAIN
Captain Ahab, oh thank god,
you are
chance. Thank god. Thank god you are here.
captain
my
last
AHAB
We saw the flags on your ship captain. How many men
have you lost?
CAPTAIN
It’s my son sir, Tom...
STUBB steps up.
STUBB
I know him, Captain. Fishiest boy in Nantucket.
He’s a credit to you, sir.
CAPTAIN
He got a harpoon in the white whale. And he just...
ran. To the North East.
AHAB
He didn't dive?
CAPTAIN
Oh no, run... run is the only word for it. Sir.
AHAB
And then?
CAPTAIN
And then...he's gone sir. My boy is gone.
AHAB
North East you say?
40
Moby Dick – Ep.2
CAPTAIN
We and the Rachel head west and we take a course
together we can comb the sea between here and Java.
AHAB
We are chasing the white whale. That is where your
son will be.
CAPTAIN
Is it? Sir, we understand each other? I’m concerned
with my son.
STARBUCK
It’s the boat we are looking for sir.
would have cut long ago.
The lad
AHAB
Mr Starbuck please do not tell me things I already
know. I know what we are looking for. We are losing
time.
CAPTAIN
No, you can’t do this. No, my son. Sir, no you
can’t do this. It’s my son. I curse you Ahab, my
son, my boy.
EXT. PEQUOD - DAY.
AHAB moves down his deck.
ISHMAEL
Why won’t you help him?
CAPTAIN (O.S.)
I beg of you please.
Then AHAB turns to him.
AHAB
I am.
CAPTAIN (O.S.)
Please, please help me find my son.
AHAB
What do you suppose will bring that man more
satisfaction? If I return with the body of his dead
child, or of the head of his murderer?
ISHMAEL and STARBUCK both stall at this. Then...
ISHMAEL
41
Moby Dick – Ep.2
And when you find him. When you kill Moby Dick. If
you kill him.
AHAB
It will be over.
STARBUCK
What are you teaching him?
AHAB
How to live like a man. Do you dare do as much?
STARBUCK
You may live to regret that remark. Sir.
CAPTAIN (O.S.)
My son, you can’t do this. I will curse you when
you’re dead...
EXT. SAILBOAT - DAY.
The captain shouts.
CAPTAIN (CONT’D)
I hope you rot in hell.
bottom.
I hope you sink to the
EXT. PEQUOD - DAY.
STUBB comes to stand
cries can be heard.
by
ISHMAEL.
The
CAPTAIN’S
STUBB
Captain's right, lad.
ISHMAEL just looks at him.
STUBB (CONT'D)
There’s nothing to be done for the boy.
CAPTAIN (O.S.)
I curse you Ahab...I curse you, you bastard.
ISHMAEL
Yeah.
STUBB
But killing
better.
that
bastard
will
make
us
all
feel
ISHMAEL considers this. Then ISHMAEL
You mean the whale right?
42
Moby Dick – Ep.2
STUBB
Now you're one of us.
Man the jibs.
We hear the captain’s cries in the b/g.
AHAB (O.S.)
The whale is to wind ward.
AHAB continues
CAPTAIN.
to
ignore
Pull her the windward.
the
screams
from
the
CAPTAIN (O.S.)
I curse Captain Ahab.
EXT. SAILING BOAT – DAY
CAPTAIN (CONT’D)
Sail straight to hell.
EXT. PEQUOD - DAY.
The ship sails.
AHAB thoughtful.
EXT. OUT AT SEA: PEQUOD - NIGHT.
The ship sails.
INT. CABIN - NIGHT.
ISHMAEL lies awake.
INT. AHAB'S CABIN - NIGHT.
AHAB is asleep on his desk. He wakes and sits up.
INT. SEA - NIGHT.
MOBY DICK lurks.
INT. CABIN - NIGHT.
ISHMAEL still awake.
EXT. OUT AT SEA: PEQUOD - DAY.
A sense of time passing. The PEQUOD is stuck in the
middle of deadly calm sea. Nothing moves. The sun
burns overhead.
43
Moby Dick – Ep.2
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
The ship is moving, but making slow progress. AHAB
looks up at the sails.
AHAB
Put on more sail.
STARBUCK
We have everything up there captain.
AHAB
More canvas!
STARBUCK
I tell you sir. There is none.
AHAB
Why are you looking at me like that Mr. Starbuck?
STARBUCK
You know very well captain.
AHAB looks up and watches the sails falter.
AHAB
Blow damn you! Blow damn you! Blow damn you!
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - AFTERNOON.
AHAB with PIP.
AHAB
Young Pip. Do you think your captain crazy? Will
the whale perish do you think? Will he fade away
from the earth? Poor Pip. Come here.
He embraces him and this moment
doesn't go unnoticed by STARBUCK
of
tenderness
EXT. SEA - AFTERNOON.
The ship sails.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - AFTERNOON.
The men are all collapsed on deck, exhausted.
STARBUCK dispenses water round the crew, ISHMAEL is
called down from the rigging.
STARBUCK
Ishmael come down.
44
Moby Dick – Ep.2
STARBUCK passes QUEEQUEQ who is being nursed by
DAGGOO.
DAGGOO
Damn heat.
STARBUCK
How’s he feeling?
STARBUCK addresses ISHMAEL.
STARBUCK(CONT’D)
You are relieved of your duties.
ISHMAEL
Sir, the captain said...
STARBUCK
I am aware
relieved.
of
what
the
captain
said.
You
are
STARBUCK gives ISHMAEL some water.
STARBUCK (CONT’D)
Here have some water.
PIP is steering the ship.
ISHMAEL collapses
exhausted.
with
the
rest
of
the
men,
EXT. PEQUOD - DAY.
The ship sails.
INT. AHAB’S CABIN - NIGHT.
AHAB sits with PIP resting on him.
PIP
Is Pip going to die? Is Pip going to die?
AHAB does not answer him.
INT. FOC'SLE, PEQUOD - NIGHT.
STEELKILT (O.S)
Welcome to the sick bay!
ISHMAEL ignores this and goes straight to QUEEQUEG
who is sitting praying, and PERTH is standing over
him, measuring him.
45
Moby Dick – Ep.2
ISHMAEL
(to Perth)
What are you doing?
PERTH
I’m measuring him for his coffin.
ISHMAEL
Queequeq, Queequeq?
QUEEQUEQ
Still no wind. No Moby Dick. Queequeq die now.
ISHMAEL lies him down and he closes his eyes.
ISHMAEL
No, Queequeq I am not going to let that happen.
QUEEQUEG
I rip my heart from the cage.
STARBUCK (V.O.)
All that I were. As the months pass...
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD, NIGHT.
STARBUCK sits reading from the bible.
STARBUCK (CONT’D)
As in the days when god preserved me. When his
candles shined upon my head and when by his light I
walked through darkness as I was in the days of my
youth. When the secret of god is upon my
tabernacle. The blessing of him at this...
ISHMAEL walks past the sleeping bodies, approaches
STARBUCK.
ISHMAEL
Sir, Queequeg thinks he’s dying. I, I can’t get him
to drink.
STARBUCK
The whole ship is dying. Because of your precious
captain.
ISHMAEL
Is he not your captain also, sir?
STARBUCK
I love the old man. That is the heart of it. But...
he's poisoned all your heads with this war on Moby
Dick.
ISHMAEL walks away.
46
Moby Dick – Ep.2
TASHTEGO grabs ISHMAEL.
TASHTEGO
We all sick, Ishmael. Got close to the white whale.
He cursed us all.
ISHMAEL doesn't have time for this and goes.
SAILOR
It’s not Ahab’s work, it’s Moby Dick’s work.
STARBUCK continues reading his bible.
STARBUCK (O.S.)
How still and peaceful is the grave where lifes
vain tumults past. The appointed house by heaven.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD, DAY.
STARBUCK (V.O. – CONT)
...receives us all at last.
AHAB is with STARBUCK.
AHAB
You want this don't you? This life... you don't
want Moby Dick that... white...
STARBUCK
Oh my captain. I would like to see Nantucket again.
My old friend.
AHAB
I don't know what it is or why. But I keep pushing
and crowding and jamming myself on all the time.
On...
STARBUCK
We will die sir. We will die chasing that damned
fish.
AHAB
Have we not outwitted death a thousand times, you
and I? Have we not split an ocean full of blood?
The smiling sky and the unsounded ocean. The great
shroud of the sea rolling on as it rolled five
thousand years ago. We will sleep. On the field.
STARBUCK
And my Mary? Waiting for me?
No answer.
STARBUCK (CONT'D)
Let's head home...
47
Moby Dick – Ep.2
For a moment it seems as if AHAB will, at last
agree.
AHAB
This is my home.
STARBUCK turns away. AHAB comforts his friend.
INT. FOC'SLE, PEQUOD - DAY.
FLASK comes down to the others. QUEEQUEG is lying
in his coffin, now finished, beautifully made and
carved.
ISHMAEL
You can't die, Queequeg. We have a whale to kill.
We can't do it without you.
QUEEQUEG does not move.
FLASK
I am here to read the last rites.
ISHMAEL
He has a different bible Mr Flask.
FLASK
The marks on his body will guide his people to his
soul and bring it home.
ISHMAEL
You can't die, Queequeg. We have a whale to kill.
We can't do it without you. You kill the whale, we
all go home. Simple!
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
STARBUCK is on deck, the sails are rippling in the
wind.
INT. FOC'SLE, PEQUOD - DAY.
ISHMAEL still beside him.
ISHMAEL
You feel that it’s wind.
A BEAT then QUEEQUEG opens his eyes and breathes.
The men are in disbelief. QUEEQUEG smiles at
ISHMAEL.
*** AMBIENTE 58:54
48
Moby Dick – Ep.2
AMBIENTE
59:05
BG comments from the crew about the wind
AHAB (O.S.)
Mother Nature, she’s cracked her cheeks.
EXT. main DECK, pequod - DAY.
FLASK and DAGGOO are staring at the sails which are
rippling in the wind.
AHAB(O.S.)
She’s blowing boys, she’s blowing!
DAGGOO picks up FLASK.
Flask “She's blowing” (Laughs)
“That she does Mr Flask, that she does (laughs)
*** AMBIENTE 59:14
Sailors laugh and cheer BG
DAGOO
Death to Moby Dick, death to Moby Dick!
EXT. PEQUOD - DAY.
The ship sails.
the crew in b.g.
Various yells of excitement from
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
The wind is stronger now as ISHMAEL and QUEEQUEG
come up on deck and take it all in: across the deck
the crew are being roused by the wind.
DAGGOO
The gods are not ready for you yet my friend.
TASHTEGO
Queequeq!
QUEEQUEG
Tashtego!
TASHTEGO
Welcome back.
QUEEQUEG
Look it!
49
Moby Dick – Ep.2
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
The sea moves with the wind.
The wind is stronger now.
AHAB is with STARBUCK and STUBB. They are looking
up into the sails.
STARBUCK
It's getting up sir.
STUBB (O.S.)
Stronger with every minute!
AHAB
Pushing us North East...
STARBUCK
Course stow Mr Stubbs.
STUBB
Course stow lads!
AHAB turns to STARBUCK, angry.
AHAB
Did I give that order, Mr. Starbuck?
STUBB
Obey that!
STARBUCK
We have to protect against the squall sir.
AHAB shouts to the men.
AHAB
Keep as much sail up as we have. And let the wind
carry us to the white whale!
The men stall at the ropes, unsure. AHAB gestures
to QUEEQUEG, DAGGOO and TASHTEGO.
AHAB (CONT'D)
Harpooners!
HARPOONERS
Yes captain.
AHAB
To me! Let us prepare!
STARBUCK
We'll be blindsided sir!
50
Moby Dick – Ep.2
AHAB doesn't reply, just walks away. W
STARBUCK stays on deck - a man in conflict. Turns
to STUBB.
STARBUCK (CONT'D)
Course us Mr. Stubb.
STUBB
The Captain said STARBUCK
It'll rip us apart.
STUBB hesitates.
STARBUCK (CONT'D)
Course us, Mr. Stubb, that's an order.
STUBB still hesitates and then...
STUBB
Course us, lads! All hands to the foredeck.
SAILOR
Aye sir.
STARBUCK watches the men grapple with the sails.
STUBB
Secure the coursails.
SAILOR
Hold it tight lads or we’ll lose it over the side.
Keep holding your lines boys. Hold tight lads.
EXT. SEA - DUSK.
The ship sails. Heavy
Lighting, big waves.
storm
clouds
gathering.
INT. FORGE, PEQUOD - DUSK.
DAGGOO and PERTH are sharpening
absolutely focused on the job.
their
harpoons:
AHAB
Hammer at it Perth!
EXT. SEA - NIGHT.
51
Moby Dick – Ep.2
The ship sails in crashing seas.
INT. FORGE, PEQUOD - NIGHT.
AHAB grabs hold of PERTH.
AHAB
Can you smooth anything Perth?
PERTH
Anything captain.
AHAB
Ah these wrinkles from my forehead? Can you... wipe
the care from my face?
PERTH
I only work in steel sir. But I will make your
harpoon razor sharp.
AHAB
For the white whale? Hmmm. To cut into him... To
cut into him.
He turns to the HARPOONERS.
AHAB (CONT'D)
He's mine. I know he is now. I have him in my
sights. Are you with me, my boys?
QUEEQUEG
Aye captain.
DAGGOO
Aye captain.
STARBUCK(O.S)
Captain, we need you on deck. We need to take in
sail.
AHAB
I will...
As he grabs hold of PERTH.
STARBUCK (O.S.)
Captain?
He grabs the harpoon off PERTH.
AHAB
Come on, I'll finish it.
EXT. SEA - NIGHT.
52
Moby Dick – Ep.2
The ship sails in crashing seas.
INT. FORGE, PEQUOD - NIGHT.
AHAB is turning to the harpooners with his red hot
blade.
AHAB
Is it that difficult? What do you say Pagans? Will
you lend your power to my blade? Temper it with
your blood?
DAGGOO, TASHTEGO and QUEEQUEG open their palms and
drip blood on the blade.
STARBUCK (O.S.)
Captain Ahab. We must reduce sail.
STARBUCK appears.
STARBUCK (CONT’D)
Turn her around and face the wind.
AHAB
Respect for your captain Mr. Starbuck. He knows
what he is doing. We take joy in iron and fire! And
blood will sail through it!
AHAB speaks in Latin and takes the harpoon to each
of their foreheads then they all link hands.
AHAB
Ego te absolve in nominee te absolve in nominee
diabli.
STARBUCK looks again at the hellish scene, then
leaves.
STUBB shouts from the deck but they do
nothing.
STUBB (O.S.)
Put a restrainer on the booms. Mr Flask check all
the hatches and make sure the water can run from
the gunnels.
*** AMBIENTE 01:04:59
BG commands from Stubb for atmosphere only
EXT. SEA - NIGHT.
The ship sails through the storm.
sight.
MOBY DICK is in
53
Moby Dick – Ep.2
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - NIGHT.
Rain and thunder: the heavens are cracking. It's
all men to the ropes, trying to bring in the sails.
STARBUCK shouting orders, amongst others.
STARBUCK
Hold it tight. Hang on. Mr Stubb. Take down top
gallant, top gallant. No, not the jib.
EXT. SEA - NIGHT.
The ship sails through the storm.
starts at the top of the mass.
Elmos
fire
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - NIGHT.
Then, at the top gallants, the crossbars are lit up
by a blue glow.. ISHMAEL is caught in between
wonder and fear.
STARBUCK
control.
appears
on
deck
and
is
immediately
in
STARBUCK
Hang on, hang on lads. Keep to the sails.
Some of the crew are terrified.
STARBUCK (CONT’D)
It's St. Elmo's fire. I’ve seen this before. It
can’t hurt you.
AHAB
Mr. Starbuck speaks truth. Nothing can touch us
now, my boys.
STARBUCK
Captain AHAB
I am your captain, Mr. Starbuck. I am Lord God
Almighty as far as you are concerned.
Elmos fire starts at the top of the mass.
AHAB (CONT'D)
Keep those sails up and you keep your course.
AHAB yells at the sky.
AHAB (CONT'D)
Oh burn me if you dare! Or lead me to Moby Dick!
54
Moby Dick – Ep.2
STARBUCK
The course you have set will destroy us, sir.
AHAB turns, making
public event.
his
criticism
AHAB
Have faith, Mr. Starbuck. I
to my purposes as surely as
across the ocean. You swore
you not? In blood and fire.
oath. We drank from the same
of
STARBUCK
a
can shape the elements
I can steer this ship
to hunt the whale did
You are bound to your
cup – did we not?
AHAB walks on.
AHAB (CONT'D)
Come on.
As they look up.
AHAB (CONT’D)
Look at it lads, look at it.
AHAB holds up his harpoon.
his harpoon.
The lights travels onto
AHAB (CONT'D)
Is not that the thing to cut the heart out of the
white whale? We can sail through it and we will! I
extinguish the last fear!
CREW (O.S.)
It’s a miracle! Let the power of God...
AHAB
We will go on together.
STUBB
You heard the captain men – we go on together and
that’s an order!
AHAB
Our destiny!
EXT. SEA - DAY.
We see PEQUOD, triumphantly, sailing through into
calmer waters with a good following wind. But she
has taken a pounding: the sails are torn to
tatters.
INT. AHAB'S CABIN, PEQUOD - DAY.
55
Moby Dick – Ep.2
PIP is crouched at the back of the cabin, fearful,
watching.
AHAB is lying on his back. STARBUCK is seated at
the table, he’s holding onto AHAB’s gun.
STARBUCK
In the name of Jesus, this madness has to stop. You
have enslaved the crew to a false communion. You
encourage the worst in their nature and present it
as merit.
AHAB
Some men die at low tide others at full flood. But
die we must. I must kill him or he must kill me and
there's an end of it.
STARBUCK
You seem to forget, that you are not the only man
on this boat. God made us to live. To aspire for
the best in ourselves and in each other.
AHAB
Ahh, scruples.
AHAB sits up and swings himself to face STARBUCK.
He gets down.
AHAB (CONT’D)
Ahh, scruples. Does Moby Dick have scruples? The
will of God. The murmuring of the fates. The whale.
They are all the same. The world is a white canvas
on which we paint our own story.
STARBUCK jumps up and crosses the room. He points
the gun again at AHAB.
AHAB (CONT'D)
We are not so very different you and I. Brothers
under the skin. You want blood as much as I do.
STARBUCK
No I do not.
AHAB
And you seek mine.
He turns away from AHAB.
STARBUCK
No. For the first time in my life I wish god made
me other than I am.
AHAB
Well then old friend. Let us start again.
56
Moby Dick – Ep.2
STARBUCK
Oh my Captain.
The two men remain motionless.
EXT. PEQUOD - DAY.
As the ship sails on.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
The whole are settled, repairing the fabric. AHAB
is hoisted up in a make shift life to inspect the
damage.
AHAB
Did I not tell you, Mr. Starbuck, the world is
there to be mastered?
SAILOR (O.S.)
Ready sir?
Then he turns to his men.
*** AMBIENTE 01:10:10
Sailor 1 “Still doubt him?”
Sailor 2 “No, but he's still as mad as a hatter
(laughs)”
AHAB
Not long now, boys. You'll have all the coin you
want when we are through! For when we kill this
monster - why we'll have enough oil to power
America will we not?
CREW
Yeah!
AHAB turns to STUBB.
AHAB
Hoist me up this mast Mr. Stubb.
Seems I am the
only man with his wits about him today. You'll all
be captains of your own ship. Every one of you will
have a house on Main street.
They raise a cheer, as he rises.
AHAB (CONT'D)
57
Moby Dick – Ep.2
Long after the green grass grows over us, there
will be songs sung in the inns of Nantucket about
Captain Ahab and his crew.
Cheers from his crew.
AHAB (CONT’D)
The bravest, boldest boys ever took to sea. We'll
be immortal, lads.
Cheers. Singing begins. (Blow the wind)
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
The crew are going about their business fixing the
sails and singing.
EXT. OUT AT SEA: PEQUOD - EVENING.
A wide shot of the ship, with its tattered sails,
sailing on through the vast ocean.
DAGGOO (Singing Blow the Wind) (V.O.)
My ship and my fortune has come home from sea.
INT. AHAB'S CABIN, PEQUOD - DAY.
AHAB sits in his cabin. ISHMAEL bursts in.
ISHMAEL
Birds! Birds captain! North east, gathering...
AHAB
Finally.
*** AMBIENTE 01:11:45
BG voices only
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
AHAB comes up on deck. AHAB gazes out Northeast and
watches as a flock of birds gather in the sky.
AHAB
Birds, indeed boy. Follow them! Issue the order if
you please Mr. Starbuck!
We see seagulls on the horizon.
58
Moby Dick – Ep.2
SAILOR (O.S.)
He’s found us, Moby Dick has found us.
AHAB turns to STUBB.
AHAB
Give the order if you please Mr. Stubb!
And STUBB obeys.
STUBB
North-east!
Sharp!
SAILORS
Alright, you heard him.
AHAB
(shouts)
Man the boats!
Action stations: the men jump to it, separating
into their different crews. STARBUCK appears from
below deck.
STUBB
Quickly now, let’s kill this bastard.
*** AMBIENTE 01:12:10
Crew BG activity only
AHAB
Remember Mr Stubb we come from behind and throw to
weaken him.
STUBB
Aye, Captain.
AHAB
We bleed him before we bring him in. There is no
shame in cutting a line today.
STUBB
No Sir.
Then Ahab moves off to FLASK'S team.
AHAB
Throw and get out, Mr. Flask. Sharp and quick.
FLASK
Very good, sir.
AHAB approaches DAGGOO.
59
Moby Dick – Ep.2
AHAB
A strong hand and a good heart, Daggoo.
DAGGOO
Your sword of justice, Captain.
And then he approaches STARBUCK.
AHAB
We exhaust him until he has no more fight in him,
Mr. Starbuck. And then, when he lies wallowing in
his own blood, we will reel him in.
STARBUCK
No, sir. Not today I will not follow you. There is
no enemy out there, the only enemy is before me.
AHAB
And as such, you fail me as first mate.
STARBUCK
My failure, before God, was to raise a gun against
you. My success was not to shoot.
And then he turns
addresses the crew.
away
from
the
Captain
and
STARBUCK (CONT'D)
Gentlemen. I ask you all to please open your eyes.
Our Captain is taking us to the bottom of the sea.
This old man has no respect...
AHAB cuts in.
AHAB
Fool! You are a coward. I am the Fates Lieutenant!
No-one can finish me! Stubb promotion. Consider
yourself first mate. Queequeg sail’s with him.
AHAB gestures to ISHMAEL.
AHAB (CONT'D)
Ishmael, with me.
AHAB addresses the whole crew.
AHAB (CONT'D)
According to our oath: DEATH TO MOBY DICK!
CREW
DEATH TO MOBY DICK! (repeatedly) MOBY DICK!
DICK! MOBY DICK!
MOBY
60
Moby Dick – Ep.2
The men
lowered.
cheer,
and
scramble
to
get
the
boats
STARBUCK watches as the ship empties and STUBB gets
into the waiting sail boat.
EXT. SKY - DAY.
A bird soars high above. Chanting continues.
EXT. OUT AT SEA - DAY.
A wide shot as the boats are moving away from the
PEQUOD: just bobbing around on the still water.
They look very vulnerable out there.
EXT. OUT AT SEA / SKY - DAY.
ISHMAEL looks up and sees hundreds of birds soar
high above.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
STARBUCK looks out.
EXT. SKY - DAY.
Hundreds of birds soar high above.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
STARBUCK and PIP look out. PIP points.
EXT. OUT AT SEA - DAY.
The boats are racing towards the birds.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
STARBUCK looks out.
EXT. OUT AT SEA - DAY.
The boats are racing towards the birds.
EXT.
OUT AT SEA - DAY.
61
Moby Dick – Ep.2
AHAB is utterly focused, and delighted: this is it.
He points to the birds.
AHAB
(shouting)
Row, boys!
ISHMAEL
Easy now, easy now.
AHAB
Row, lads! Row!
SAILORS
Heave, heave!
AHAB
Row Row!
STUBB
We’ll get him this time!
And the men grab the oars, ISHMAEL with them.
STUBB is giving it his all, rallying the men.
STUBB
The white whale is ours! Row for your lives. We'll
boil the sea with his blood. And row He’s enormous
boys.ah Sweet Jesus look at the size of him.
QUEEQUEG stands, harpoon raised, searching...
STUBB leans over the side of the boat, peering
through the birds.
Then suddenly, QUEEQUEG has a
clear view... and there's something in the water,
right in front of him.
AHAB is excited and absolutely focused.
AHAB
For his heart Queequeq.
STUBB
Strike now!
QUEEQUEG'S p.o.v. from the boat: the water parting
before him, and a mass of white emerging... MOBY
DICK.
Crew calling out instructions BG only
QUEEQUEG throws his harpoon with all his might. The
minute it hits, MOBY DICK dives.
62
Moby Dick – Ep.2
The rope tightens and begins to pay out, around the
station. The boat lurches, the men are frightened.
STUBB
Well done Queequeq.
AHAB shouts orders for the crew to pull him in.
AHAB
Stubb has a line on him boys. Pull now.
FLASK
He’s got one in him. He’s got one left.
STUBB
Hold on now.
Hold onto that rope. Hold on.
INT. SEA - DAY.
MOBY DICK seems to be pulling the boat along.
EXT – OUT AT SEA – DAY
STUBB
Hold on, here we go. Get that dabloon and we’ll
share it out even and we’ll bring barrels of gold
back to Nantucket.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
A distressed STARBUCK watches with PIP.
PIP
The white whale sir!
EXT. STUBB'S BOAT - DAY.
They are being pulled along.
of the boat.
Moby swimming ahead
STUBB
Hold fast now.
EXT. AHAB'S BOAT - DAY.
AHAB looks grim but his face betrays no feeling.
AHAB
He’s on him boys, he’s on him, he’s on him boys.
63
Moby Dick – Ep.2
EXT. STUBB'S BOAT - DAY.
Fear is in them.
TASHTEGO
We’ve got to cut.
QUEEQUEG
He’s going too fast!
TASHTEGO
We’ve got to cut!
STUBB
Over my dead body we’ll cut!
QUEEQUEG
We’ve got to cut, he’s going to fast!
TASTEGO
He’s going to take us down!
EXT. AHAB'S BOAT - DAY.
They watch the boat being dragged.
AHAB
Cut!
Cut!
EXT. STUBB'S BOAT - DAY.
STUBB axe in hand drops it into the sea.
QUEQUEEQ
I’ve dropped the axe!
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
STARBUCK
(shouting)
Mr Stubb cut!
PIP
(shouting)
Let loose!
Cut it!
EXT. AHAB'S BOAT - DAY.
AHAB
Cut!
64
Moby Dick – Ep.2
EXT. STUBB'S BOAT - DAY.
They are being pulled along.
INT. SEA – DAY
Moby under the water pulling the boat along.
EXT. OUT AT SEA - DAY.
But it's too late: we watch as the boat is pulled
under and that wall of white water subsides.
STUBB
Sweet Jesus.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
STARBUCK looks devastated. PIP is beside him.
EXT. OUT AT SEA - DAY.
AHAB
Hold oars.
*** AMBIENTE 01:16:13
Nothing here
EXT. FLASK'S BOAT - DAY.
FLASK and the other crew bow their heads.
EXT. AHAB'S BOAT - DAY.
AHAB looks to the sky and takes his cap in his
hand.
AHAB
Stubb’s gone. Poor Stubb.
EXT. FLASK'S BOAT - DAY.
FLASK see’s something.
FLASK
Hold oars lads, hold oars.
65
Moby Dick – Ep.2
EXT. AHAB'S BOAT - DAY.
AHAB continues.
AHAB
A mouldy and over salted death. But we will have
our revenge. I'll spit my last breath at him. Grab
those sticks boys, grab your oars. Pull revenge
Pull for revenge for Mr Stubb and Quequeeq. And our
mates - row!
SAILORS
Heave, heave!
AHAB
This is the one.
Row!
EXT. FLASK'S BOAT - DAY.
FLASK
A dead whale or a stove boat.
DAGOO
Row boys.
EXT. OUT AT SEA - DAY.
Where MOBY DICK
water. And then
Shakes himself,
back towards The
dived, there's a movement in the
QUEEQUEG errupts out of the sea.
and starts swimming like a maniac
Pequod.
ISHMAEL (O.S.)
Queequeg, Queequeg.
EXT. AHAB'S BOAT - DAY.
ISHMAEL sees this and points as he shouts.
ISHMAEL (CONT’D)
Queequeg.
AHAB
Row boys.
ISHMAEL
Queequeg
EXT. OUT AT SEA - DAY.
QUEEQUEG swims.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
66
Moby Dick – Ep.2
PIP is delighted. STARBUCK is harder to read.
PIP
Queequeg. Queequeg ain't dead yet sir! He ain't
dead yet!
EXT. AHAB'S BOAT - DAY.
AHAB
Leave him, he’ll make it to the ship. Leave him!
We’re going for the whale.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
STARBUCK and PIP watch the waters.
EXT. OUT AT SEA - DAY.
QUEEQUEG swims.
EXT. FLASK'S BOAT - DAY.
FLASK looks shaken, but steely. DAGGOO is clasping
his harpoon. The OARSMEN don't know what to do.
FLASK
Give way together. Keep
course... Courage boys.
steady,
lads.
We're
on
AHAB and ISHMAEL watch FLASK'S BOAT. AHAB
excited, focused, ISHMAEL looks horrified.
is
And they start to row.
EXT. AHAB'S BOAT - DAY.
AHAB
Eyes open, eyes open Row. Moby Dick is ours. Row.
Row straight, death to Moby Dick.
EXT. PEQUOD - DAY.
QUEEQUEQ has reached the boat and is pulled in by a
SAILOR and STARBUCK.
STARBUCK
Queequeq come on give me your hand. Give me your
hand.
*** AMBIENTE 01:18:55
67
Moby Dick – Ep.2
Queequeg “He's too big... too strong...”
EXT. OUT AT SEA - DAY.
There's a churning wall of water as MOBY DICK rises
up behind AHAB and FLASK’s boat. They are unaware
of him. He dives back.
EXT. SKY - DAY.
A seagull soars above.
EXT. AHAB'S BOAT - DAY.
Every part of AHAB is concentrated on the patch of
water where MOBY DICK sounded then looks to the
sky. ISHMAEL just looks on, in shock.
AHAB
Hold oars the bars, hold oars.
EXT. SKY - DAY.
Seagull soars above.
EXT. AHAB'S BOAT - DAY.
AHAB
Here they come.
ISHMAEL has no idea how to take this. The oarsmen
look terrified. AHAB just looks more determined.
EXT. SKY - DAY.
Seagulls soar above.
EXT. FLASK’S BOAT - DAY.
FLASK
Courage boys, it’s not a whale, we were spooked by
a couple of birds.
EXT. AHAB'S BOAT / FLASK’S BOAT - DAY.
AHAB
He’s underneath us! He’s under us!
68
Moby Dick – Ep.2
They look around.
SAILOR
Where is he?
He shouts out to FLASK.
AHAB
Flask.
To FLASK as he looks around and hears.
AHAB (O.S – CONT’D)
Flask.
FLASK is unsure what is happening.
SAILORS
Below you.
I can’t see a thing.
ISHMAEL and AHAB try and warn FLASK and his men.
AHAB
Underneath you.
FLASK
Daggoo ready your harpoon.
DAGGOO stands harpoon in hand
thrown over board into the sea.
throws
it
and
is
MOBY DICK appears, big wash of wake and part of his
tail comes up.
MOBY DICK is turning their boat over.
EXT. AHAB’S BOAT - DAY.
ISHMAEL and AHAB stand in the boat.
ISHMAEL
I don’t believe it!
EXT. PEQUOD – DAY
QUEEQUEG LOOKS SHOCKED.
EXT. AHAB’S BOAT - DAY.
AHAB
Moby Dick just shrugged him off his back.
69
Moby Dick – Ep.2
ISHMAEL has no idea how to take this. The oarsmen
look terrified. AHAB just looks more determined.
AHAB (CONT'D)
How shall we proceed my son? The whale must be
weakened... What is your theory? What does your
instinct tell you?
ISHMAEL
We have lost ten men, sir.
SAILOR (O.S.)
Save their souls.
ISHMAEL
We have lost ten men, captain.
AHAB studies him - it's almost a challenge.
ISHMAEL (CONT'D)
There is only us, please it's impossible sir...
From AHAB's expression it's obvious that this word
is not in his vocabulary.
AHAB
We are not going to bow down before him are we
lads. Onward, slow and steady.
He’ll find us.
Onwards boys.
ISHMAEL
It’s madness sir, it’s madness, boys...
AHAB
He’ll kill us anyway if we don’t kill him.
find us.
He’ll
INT. SEA - DAY.
MOBY DICK is out there.
AHAB (CONT’D) (V.O.)
He’ll come to us! He’ll come! He’ll come!
EXT. OUT AT SEA / AHAB’S BOAT - DAY.
Now it's just AHAB'S BOAT, isolated on the ocean...
with gulls above him.
The boat is at a standstill. AHAB is standing at
the prow with his harpoon raised. Peering down into
the water.
AHAB
70
Moby Dick – Ep.2
Row!
Row to hell!
INT. SEA - DAY.
MOBY DICK turns and follows their boat.
EXT. AHAB'S BOAT - DAY.
AHAB
He’ll find us, easy, steady. That’s it, that’s it.
INT. SEA - DAY.
MOBY DICK swims.
AHAB (V.O.)
He’ll see.
EXT. AHAB'S BOAT - DAY.
AHAB (CONT’D)
He’s offering himself.
AHAB sees MOBY’s dark figure under the surface.
ISHMAEL
Can you see anything?
Where is he, where is he?
AHAB
Ready me a second harpoon.
ISHMAEL
Ship oars, ship oars.
MOBY’s back find appears above the water.
AHAB
You ready boys, pass me another harpoon.
ISHMAEL hands him the next one. AHAB throws it.
Moby gets hit with the harpoon, first harpoon still
in his back.
ISHMAEL
He’s taken it, ship oars, ship oars!
AHAB throws another one.
Moby swims away bleeding.
ISHMAEL
He’s got it.
AHAB
71
Moby Dick – Ep.2
Hold on boys.
AHAB is excited.
INT. SEA - DAY.
MOBY DICK is pulling them.
EXT. AHAB'S BOAT - DAY.
AHAB is shouting orders to the crew.
AHAB
You ready boys?
CREW
Aye captain.
AHAB
We’re on him. Hold on boys. Yes, we’re on him!
Moby! We’re on him. Run from your death Moby
Dick! Run from your death! Yeeesss!
INT. SEA - DAY.
MOBY DICK in the water, we see blood.
slows down.
The rope
EXT. AHAB'S BOAT - DAY.
But then suddenly the boat stops.
AHAB is on high alert. Looking out; listening.
AHAB
You smell that boys?
The OARSMEN are too scared to say anything.
AHAB (CONT'D)
He's playing with us.
ISHMAEL looks up. His expression changes.
ISHMAEL
Captain abandon ship...
AHAB
Hold!
EXT. PEQUOD - DAY.
72
Moby Dick – Ep.2
All men on board are panic stricken.
EXT. SKY - DAY.
The gulls fly above.
EXT. AHAB'S BOAT - DAY.
ISHMAEL
Captain...
AHAB
Turn the boat. He's trying to flip us over. Turn
the boat.
The men grab the oars. AHAB grabs the first harpoon
rope and yanks it in shouting orders to the men.
AHAB
Hard on the port side.
INT. SEA - DAY.
MOBY DICK swims away under water.
EXT. AHAB'S BOAT - DAY.
AHAB is hauling that rope.
AHAB
Here it comes boys.
Here it comes.
*** AMBIENTE 01:23:50
BG sailor shouts Crowd only
SAILOR
Hold it, hold it tight.
Moby Dick rises in the foreground.
Moby Dick turns on his
flying at the Pequod.
back
and
the
birds
are
AHAB
He’s turning over on his back. Like a shark, like a
damn shark!
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
A gull lands.
PIP looks up.
73
Moby Dick – Ep.2
STARBUCK looks out to sea and we follow his gaze.
The seagulls on deck fly away as PIP chases them.
EXT. OUT AT SEA - DAY.
There, emerging from the edges of the ocean: a
churning of white water, and the speck of AHAB'S
boat.
The boat is racing across the water, unbelievably
fast. But AHAB is keeping his footing, hanging onto
that rope, and he's laughing. He's loving this: the
chase, the cleverness of the animal, the strength
and the power of it.
AHAB
(shouting)
Now we have him!
INT. SEA – DAY
On Moby Dick .
EXT. OUT AT SEA – DAY
AHAB
(shouting)
Now we have him!
ISHMAEL
(shouting)
Captain! We must cut.
AHAB
Never!
ISHMAEL
Captain, you said, we should only weaken
Captain. You said we should only weaken him.
him.
AHAB
Weaken him? We are riding him Ishmael! We are
riding on the back of Moby Dick. Can’t you see it,
it’s a prophecy!
They pick up speed. AHAB is delighted.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
PIP looks terrified, turns to STARBUCK.
PIP
He’s coming for us.
74
Moby Dick – Ep.2
QUEEQUEG, STARBUCK and the others are terrified and
run as the whale comes towards them.
EXT. AHAB'S BOAT - DAY.
AHAB (CONT'D)
The prophecy, the prophecy, my boy!
INT. SEA
- DAY
Moby Dick underwater.
EXT. OUT AT SEA / AHAB’S BOAT – DAY
AHAB
There it is. There's my hearse.
ISHMAEL
Please cut captain, please...
AHAB
My hearse of American wood.
AHAB clings onto the rope, he pushes ISHMAEL off
the side of the boat.
AHAB (CONT’D)
You will live! You can take me to hell and back
before I let go of this rope. We are one you and
I.
Moby Dick is coming towards the Pequod, AHAB’s
boat getting very close.
AHAB (CONT’)
We are one.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
QUEEQUEG, STARBUCK and the others are terrified and
run as the whale comes towards them.
EXT. OPEN SEA, PEQUOD - DAY.
MOBY DICK surges towards it and crashes into it.
INT. PEQUOD - DAY.
QUEEQUEG is hurled into the air as water gushes in.
EXT. OPEN SEA, PEQUOD - DAY.
75
Moby Dick – Ep.2
MOBY DICK is tearing the boat apart.
EXT. AHAB'S BOAT - DAY.
MOBY DICK throws the boat into the air.
INT. SEA - DAY.
EXT. PEQUOD - DAY.
PIP is pushed over with the impact.
STARBUCK sees PIP.
STARBUCK
Pip.
INT. PEQUOD – DAY
STEELKILT is hit by the impact of the sea.
INT. SEA - DAY.
Moby Dick swims away.
AHAB, still alive, although tangled in the rope, is
dragged.
INT. BELOW DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
PIP tries to move through the water, but it pushes
him back.
SAILOR (O.S.)
Somebody help me, I’m trapped in here. I can’t get
out.
EXT. SEA - DAY.
ISHMAEL surfaces, look around at the sinking ship.
INT. BELOW DECK, PEQUOD – DAY.
PIP moves through.
SAILOR (O.S.)
I’m trapped.
INT. SEA – DAY
76
Moby Dick – Ep.2
Moby swims. AHAB, still alive, although tangled in
the rope, is dragged along.
INT. BELOW DECK, PEQUOD – DAY.
PIP struggling to make his way through.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
The deeply sloped sinking deck. STARBUCK stares and
gets up shouting for PIP.
STARBUCK
Pip!
INT. BELOW DECK, PEQUOD – DAY.
The ship is falling apart. STARBUCK is desperately
trying to free PIP.
STARBUCK (O.S.)
Pip, Pip...
INT. SEA - DAY
We see the huge flank of MOBY DICK as he spins, in
a corkscrew under the water. We see AHAB as he is
pulled closer and closer to the white whale. With
each twist, the rope tightens, strangling him.
EXT. SEA – DAY
ISHMAEL surfaces.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
STARBUCK
SAILOR.
is
desperately
trying
to
pull
out
A
STARBUCK
Don’t let go, just put your foot down.
PIP (O.S.)
Mr Starbuck please, my leg is stuck.
We see PIP calling for help.
PIP (CONT’D)
Mr Starbuck please my leg it stuck. Please help me.
77
Moby Dick – Ep.2
STARBUCK
Alright Pip I’m coming Pip, Just hold on..
STARBUCK slides down.
PIP
No. Please.
EXT. SEA – DAY
ISHMAEL swims closer to help.
STARBUCK (O.S.)
Hold on. I’ll be there Pip.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD – DAY
STARBCUK desperately trying to help.
STARBUCK (CONT’D)
I’ll be there.
PIP
Mr Starbuck please, it’s stuck. I can’t move it.
Right in front of STARBUCK'S eyes MOBY DICK rears
up out of the ocean: that white wall.
And bound to his side is AHAB: tied up in the
hempen rope of the harpoon line, with the harpoons
pressed close to his body.
PIP (O.S.)
Oh please help me.
And then the whale dives again.
PIP (O.S – CONT’D)
Please help me.
STARBUCK turns back to PIP.
PIP
Please help me.
STARBUCK
I’m coming Pip. I’m coming.
PIP
Please.
STARBUCK reaches out for PIP’s hand.
EXT. OUT AT SEA, BESIDE THE PEQUOD - DAY.
78
Moby Dick – Ep.2
In the water, ISHMAEL looks ahead.
EXT. MAIN DECK, PEQUOD - DAY.
STARBUCK holds onto PIP’s hand.
PIP
I’m not frightened
Starbuck, sir.
sir.
Pip’s
no
coward
Mr
STARBUCK
I know that. I have never known a braver cabin boy.
I’ll stay with you, I’ll stay with you son. I’ll
stay with you.
PIP
Thank you Mr Starbuck. Thank you.
STARBUCK
We’ll be together.
PIP grins again, trying so hard not to be scared.
He looks straight into STARBUCK's eyes.
EXT. OUT AT SEA, BESIDE THE PEQUOD - DAY.
ISHMAEL swims towards the boat.
EXT. PEQUOD - DAY.
STARBUCK holds onto PIP’s hand as they sink.
STARBUCK
I’ll be right here with you. There’s nothing to be
afraid of. We’ll go down together.
PIP
I’m not afraid sir.
EXT. OUT AT SEA, BESIDE THE PEQUOD - DAY.
ISHMAEL sees his two friends sink into the water.
Floating up from the center of the vortex comes
QUEEQUEG'S COFFIN. ISHMAEL grabs a hold of it.
INT. SEA – DAY
Desperately looking for his friends he stares down
into the water. We share his point of view as...
79
Moby Dick – Ep.2
MOBY DICK comes looming up from under the water.
He's so close that ISHMAEL could touch him. There's
AHAB stuck to the side, very dead.
ISHMAEL stares straight back at MOBY DICK - unable
to move. Then after what seems like an eternity,
the whale doesn't turn to attack him, but moves
slowly away.
ISHMAEL (V.O)
I floated on that coffin for almost one whole day
and night. The un-harming sharks glided by as if
with padlocks on their mouths and the sail drew
nearer to me at last.
It was the Rachel, still
searching for her missing son only to find an
orphan.
EXT. OUT AT SEA - DAY.
ISHMAEL’s V.O from above is cut into this section.
ISHMAEL looks to where the PEQUOD once was and all
he can see is the wake of the white whale.
Streaming away into the distance. ISHMAEL and MOBY
DICK are the only two survivors of the voyage of
the PEQUOD.
ISHMAEL lays on the coffin floating in the sea.
CREDITS.
80