By Alaskastory
FADE IN
EXT. GREEN VALLEY BELOW UNIVERSITY ON HILLTOP
EXT. WALKWAY INTO UA MUSEUM OF THE NORTH, FAIRBANKS -DAY
A group of summer TOURISTS snap pictures of unique building, statues, flowers in full bloom, and NATIVE BOY carries a large basket. Jared is 15.
SNOWY-HAIRED WOMAN
Wonderful basket. Surely it's authentic.
JARED
Yes ma'am, It's my ancestor's Spirit Basket.
Man in Texas cowboy hat pulls out wad of twenty-dollar bills.
TOURIST MAN
You got it for sale, Young Man?
DR. LEE appears at front door. She smiles at the crowd and flutters quickly to Jared.
DR. LEE
Ah, Dee Dee's little brother. C'mon, follow me with that basket.
Dr. Lee puts a hand on his shoulder.
INT. ELABORATE ART, ANIMALS, HISTORIC ITEMS DISPLAY AREA PRECEDES LINE OF OFFICE DOORS
Door SIGN reads Dr. Mildred Lee, Ethnology Curator. Series of photos and paintings line the walls, artwork on shelves.
DR. LEE
I have heard much about the basket. Now, Jared Sheikov, I want you to tell me more.
Jared places TALL BASKET on a table and removes lid. He INHALES DEEPLY.
JARED
Inside is the smell of the sea, beach grass, and berries too.
DR. LEE
I'm told it is over two-hundred fifty years old. Beginning in the Aleutians then later remade in Kodiak.
JARED
Grandmother Natasha tells us that. She tells of how grandparents who lived long, long ago survived. Each generation had to live differently than before.
DR. LEE
Tell me. Start at the very beginning. I want to hear every story that this beautiful basket holds.
JARED rolls his hands over basket, eyes closed.
JARED
The first story happened hundreds of years ago. Maybe in 1745. There a breeze washes off the sea. It is Attu Island.
EXT. TREELESS ISLAND, OVERLOOKING SEACOAST LINED WITH SEALS ON ROCKS
Knee-high grass atop a knoll stands ANGAYUK, a young teenage boy and his older brother RUUWAQ. Barks and grunts are heard from seals, waves pound loudly against the rocky shore.
ANGAYUK
Ruuwaq, look. What is that I see?
Points at a ship sparkling in sunlight, far off shore.
RUUWAQ
Something strange comes across the water. It's like a huge bidarka with white wings.
He drops a bundle of grass gathered for basket making.
ANGAYUK
Must tell Grandma. She will know.
Both dash for a standing of rock that shelters a spot from the wind. Their Grandmother sits, sorting strands of sturdy bay grass.
GRANDMA
My boys come with not a straw to weave.
She stretches her arms out toward the youngest boy, shaking her head at his ragged garment.
GRANDMA
Angayuk, you grow so fast. I need more seal gut to sew you a new coat.
ANGAYUK
Look, Grandma, look. See something strange on the water.
GRANDMA
My old eyes see something odd. What do your young eyes see, Ruuwaq?
RUUWAQ
Can it be that strange men from a far away land have come to our land?
With a gasp, the grandmother yanks Ruuwaq's arm and pulls herself to her feet.
GRANDMA
You must run to the village. Go, run fast. Warn our people.
Both boys run their bare feet on a path through brush and pebbles descending to a far side of the island.
EXT. THE VILLAGE -DAY
Here people have dug into the earth and made dwellings of driftwood and sod. Men stretch sealskin over lashed together wood frames shaping a long boat. Women sit together sewing seabird skins into shirts. They use bone needles and gut thread.
Boys stop at a circle of men. Their father THE CHIEF wears a carved wood visor decorated with sea-lion whiskers.
THE CHIEF
What brings my sons? You stop our story of a great hunt in the far north.
Angayuk bursts into the circle.
ANGAYUK
A bidarka comes that is bigger than a whale. It has huge white wings.
Ruuwaq stands respectfully outside the circle of men.
RUUWAQ
That's true. We saw it from the cliff rocks.
A jumble of voices rise, men stomp feet and some reach for spears carved from driftwood.
THE CHIEF
Might be visitors, maybe from a tribe in the south. Ruuwaq go with two men to watch. Hide there until we come with gifts.
(Beat)
THE CHIEF
(his gaze sweeps over the men)
We will come with gifts and our spears.
EXT. ON TRAIL TOWARD THE SOUTHERN BEACH - AFTERNOON
Everyone in the village walk with the men ahead. Elders, young ~mothers with children follow well behind. Near the beach they stay well hidden and watch the sailboat approach the beach.
ANGAYUK
The white wings.
(commenting to his grandmother)
See how they fold up. The bidarka has stopped.
Angayuk rushes to his brother's side. A gasp comes from many as they see a small boat is let down from the ship with men aboard.
RUUWAQ
Odd looking men come in strange bidarka. Angayuk, stand back. You hide all the children.
When the boat nears the beach, village men erupt in plain sight with spears held high. They yell out in song and jump and twist in the air to show strength and welcome.
Angayuk grabs the arm of a child who wants to jump and dance like the men and pulls him to a rocky shelter. His eyes never leave the approaching skiff.
ANGAYUK
Men are different in big coats, hats cover their ears. Paddles long.
MACHXISA, a young girl next to him points with a look of alarm.
MACHXISA
Scary ones have long hair on their chins. They stop in water. One scary man shouts and his long, black pole points at us.
Village men respond to sailors' shouts by waving spears and dancing vigorously.
ANGAYUK
Father offers sealskins. They are quick to grab them. They want the seals.
The man with the rifle waves back to the ship. Two other rowboats are lowered and more men paddle ashore. Very loud scraping sound of boats on the pebbled beach amaze villagers who approach with caution. Grandma bravely steps forward with a basket of bird eggs and tools carved from walrus tusks.
GRANDMA
I will trade for warm blanket woven different than my grass.
ANGAYUK
What they want most are fur-seals.
Angayuk chuckles, amused at the fast pace of trading.
ANGAYUK
Good to have a blanket and there's a pipe, but other things seem no purpose.
RUUWAQ
What matters most is that boat. It is made from a big wood but still floats.
Ruuwaq pounds a fist on the hull of a rowboat then begins tugging at it. He holds out his spear offering to trade. A hairy faced sailor begins yelling angrily.
A boom louder than thunder sends every villager fleeing for shelter. Birds shriek and flapping wings fill the sky.
Angayuk's throws an arm around MACHXISA
ANGAYUK
Thunder came from the black stick. See, smoke comes from it.
MACHXISA
Visitors not afraid. They don't run from the noise.
Villagers stay hidden and watch as the traders load the boats with sealskins. Loaded boats screech again over rocky beach, and move into the water as the tide begins to rise. Paddling begins.
Villagers seem stunned. Silence fills the air until boats and seamen board the ship.
Ruuwaq frowns. Slams his spear on the ground.
RUUWAQ
They trade no more with us. Get no more of our seals.
ANGAYUK
Big, white wings rise above the bidarka. Will they go away forever?
THE CHIEF
We will never see men with hairy chins and sky-color eyes again. Life for the Aleut people will be as it always has been.
MACHXISA speaks softly to ANGAYUK.
MACHXISA
A fear tickles over me. I feel it in my stomach.
ANGAYUK
Me too. The years may bring changes to our people.
FADE OUT: ISLAND PEOPLE AND ACROSS OCEAN WATERS
EXT. FADE IN TOWARD UNIVERSITY OFFICE
INT. DR. LEE'S OFFICE - AFTERNOON
JARED reaches deeply into the basket and pulls out a tiny piece of ivory.
JARED
The sharp point on this comes from a gift to TUMGAX. About twenty-five years later. He was son to ANGAYUK and MACHXISA.
| Author Notes | Based on my (young adult) novel "Spirit Basket", I'm practicing screenwriting techniques. The format is distorted here, each speaker needs centering. Story begins in 2015 and many scenes later will end there. Many thanks to Crystal Clear for Orca picture. |
By Alaskastory
Background:
Jared, a teenage boy, delivers his ancestors' Spirit Basket to a museum, and tells the stories it holds. He tells how his ancestors over 270 years have their ways changed when strangers come to Alaska.
EXT. FADE IN TOWARD UNIVERSITY OFFICE
INT. DR. LEE'S OFFICE - AFTERNOON
JARED reaches into the basket and pulls out a tiny piece of ivory.
JARED
The sharp point on this comes from a gift to TUMGAX. About 25 years later. He was son to ANGAYUK and MACHXISA.
EXT: FADE IN Over an isolated island
INT. SMALL ROOM IN SOD HUT. BOY ASLEEP - MORNING
Teenage boy's eyes open as he hears pounding on outside wall, voices of Russian guards. Aleut boy wears an ivory labret inserted below his lip.
MACHXISA
We must not be late. Be quick.
EXT. OUTSIDE ON VILLAGE PATH IN EARLY MORNING LIGHT
Their bare feet pound over muddy path. Harsh wind blowing. Machxisa hands her son a strip of dried fish.
MACHXISA
You eat this. Stand by me at the skinning table.
INT. SHELTERED UNDER ROOF AND WALLS ON TWO SIDES - MORNING
Table is loaded with bodies of fur seals.
TUMGAX
Many seals killed. Won't all seals in the sea be gone someday soon?
MACHXISA
That day may come. Then traders will leave.
TUMGAX
I hope Father's ship brings in last load of seals this summer.
MACHXISA
(eyes dart quickly around workroom)
Don't let them hear you speak. Put the skinning knife to work now.
A Russian seaman enters with an armload of sea otters. Six other workers follow him and take up spots along the long table.
RUSSIAN SEAMAN
Workers, get every last one skinned out before anybody leaves. And clean those furs till they real pretty.
Jared pulls carcasses onto the table. The surface becomes bloody and, as workers swing knives, animal parts are discarded in a smelly ditch beneath their feet. Huge stack begins to dwindle.
EXT. SEA-FRONT AFTER WORK DAY - EVENING
Tumgax's fingers work the sand, digging clams and pulling snails from rocks. He bundles his catch in a cloth and starts moving away from the beach.
EXT. PATHWAY UP A KNOLL TO A SOD HUT - EVENING
Tumgax stops where a red-eyed otter mask is before a hut.
INT. HE ENTERS. PUTS A SQUIRMING CRAB ON DIRT FLOOR. - EVENING
An ailing old man struggles to his feet and puts his bony hand on the boy's head.
SHAMAN
Tumgax, your named is for walrus. A stubborn and mighty soul lives in you.
Shaman's voice rasps and he waves a stick topped with eagle feathers.
SHAMAN
I command you go far across the waters away from killers who bring death to our sea.
TUMGAX
Oh wise spirit, please tell me the secret place where a bidarka hides.
Tumgax leans close to hear the old man whisper.
SHAMAN
Close your eyes to see days long ago. Find the moon-rock. It sparkles very soon under full bright light.
With feathered stick Shaman draws a circle above them.
TUMGAX
I saw moon-rock once but what is the right path there?
Shaman strokes a long feather across Tumgax's forehead.
SHAMAN
Wood drifts. One night it will point the way.
The old man coughs repeatedly taking away his strength. Tumgax helps him lie down on dried grass and covers him with a blanket of seal skin.
SHAMAN
Eyes of evil ones are everywhere. Await your strong father to return.
TUMGAX
Men with strange words say the Nicholas sails here soon. The time to escape will come.
Weary eyes brighten in light burning from a saucer of seal oil.
SHAMAN
Have great patience, boy. Do not hesitate when danger strikes.
Tumgax seems confused, but turns his attention to food. Arranges seafood on hot coals. The old man is well asleep when Tumgax leaves.
EXT. OFF TOWARD THE BEACH - EVENING
Tumgax runs against an autumn wind, spots a ship anchored nearby. He stops short of a Russian seaman who works at repairing a wooden skiff.
TUMGAX
(in broken Russian words)
Is boat Nicholas?
RUSSIAN SEAMAN
That be the Seamaid coming for pelts. Taking them to the Orient. Course a boy like you never heard of places like Irkutsk or Canton. Right?
The man grins with yellow, decaying teeth. Tumgax gives him a shy nod.
RUSSIAN SEAMAN
Our blasted supply ship is overdue. Not a drop of drink left so it better get here real soon.
Tumgax's eyes search endless ocean. He shouts into wind.
TUMGAX
One day real soon!
INT. INSIDE SKINNING ROOM SHACK - MORNING
TUMGAX
I hear shouting voices.
MANY VOICES
Ship is here! It's party time tonight.
Machxisa and Tumgax slap down their tools in the cutting shack.
EXT. OUTSIDE ON THE BEACH - MORNING
All workers, guards and traders rush to the beach. Skiffs with crewmen aboard paddle to shore. In the last boat one oarsman is not a Russian. He pulls strongly against choppy water, back straight, no smile above the ivory labret on his lip.
MACHXISA
It is he.
(bends close, singing in Tumgax's ear)
It is Angayuk.
Excited, Tumgax swallows hard to resist shouting out the Shaman's secret.
Skiff's bottom scrapes on sand. Men jump into knee deep water to pull boat ashore. Amid others who handshake and laugh, Angayuk soberly reaches for Machxisa's hands, they look quietly into each other's eyes.
TUMGAX
Father. They take you away so many months.
A smile lights up Angayuk. He grasps his son's shoulders.
ANGAYUK
My son, you grow strong.
RUSSIAN GUARD
Back to work all you skinners. Not getting dark yet. There's plenty to get done.
(pushes Machxisa toward the cutting shack then turns to Angayuk)
You're stronger than the others. Make sure the wine gets up here with no damage to the kegs.
FADE OUT
INT. SMALL ROOM IN SOD HUT - EVENING
MACHXISA
This is what I made for you.
(hands Angayuk a hand-stitched gut parka)
Winter rain won't harm you.
ANGAYUK
(holds garment near light burning in dish of seal oil)
Yes, it is weather tight. Trimmed with sea lion hair and Auklet feathers.
(rubs fingers over decorations)
This is my good fortune.
Machxisa wipes at tears. She moves rocks from the fire to water in a cooking basket.
ANGAYUK
I brought something for my son.
(takes a steel knife from a hide bundle)
TUMGAX
I will treasure this.
(caresses bone handle and sharp blade, hesitates to speak)
Long time I save a secret for you.
Angayuk puts an arm around his son, squeezes him.
ANGAYUK
Be quick then, tell me your secret.
Tumgax speaks softly so he can't be heard beyond sod walls.
TUMGAX
Shaman told me where a kayak hides and I followed the path one day. It can sail us away.
Angayuk smiles broadly. Machxisa gasps.
MACHXISA
Escape is too dangerous. They are sure to kill our son. Living here will keep our son alive.
TUMGAX
(with a moan)
All the days of my life to work for the traders? That is not for me.
ANGAYUK
The boy is right. We owe him a try for another life.
TUMGAX
Shaman promises spirits will be with us.
ANGAYUK
(puts his arm around Machxisa)
Tonight liquor will pour from barrels. A better night cannot come.
Tumgax hurriedly places his new knife in a large woven grass basket. Machxisa nervously stows sewing and cooking items in it.
TUMGAX
Grandmother's spirit will go with us in her basket from Attu.
ANGAYUK
We will trust her spirit and the Shaman on this dark, cloud-covered night.
They pulled on their seal-gut garments.
EXT. CAMP IN DARKNESS - NIGHT
Tumgax boldly walks out into windless night veiled in low fog.
RUSSIAN GUARD
It's night, foolish boy. Get off to bed.
(Not hesitating, guard strides toward a lighted building)
When the guard is gone, Tumgax waves to Father and Mother. Together they move beside sailors quarters, stooping low under the window.
Door opens. Voices bellow.
SAILORS
(singing a Russian folk song.)
Tumgax, Angayuk and Machxisa flatten themselves in tall moist grass as sailors stagger to next wood-frame building. When door slams and voices are muffled, they rise and run until their bare feet are on cold rocks at the outside beach.
They hurry up a grassy knoll and onto a path to the Shaman's hut with a red-eyed otter mask over the entrance.
ANGAYUK
Why are you stopping, Son?
(he whispers)
What is this place?
SHAMAN
(weak, trembling voice comes from inside hut)
Boy named for mighty walrus? What do you bring me?
INT. SHAMAN'S HUT - NIGHT
Dim light from burning seal oil.
TUMGAX
(whispering close to old man's ear)
This is the night of our escape.
Mother and Father enter and bow their heads.
SHAMAN
Seabird feather will keep you safe.
Shaman pulls open tattered basket and removes three long eagle feathers. Mumbles strangely and strokes each feather with trembling fingers.
Machxisa takes the feathers. She pulls strips of dried fish from her basket and places them before Shaman.
ANGAYUK
We go with gratitude for spirit of good fortune.
SHAMAN
Be gone.
Shaman thumps wall with feathered stick and waves them out into the night.
EXT. PATH ABOVE BEACH - NIGHT
They huddle behind low bushes and speak in whispers.
TUMGAX
Shaman's moon rock is on far side of island. Shortest way is up the hill above rookery.
ANGAYUK
That is above the cover of fog.
(cautiously looked about)
Go. Lead the way.
Tumgax gropes uncertainly along the dark path heading uphill.
TUMGAX
See, there is the Shaman finger that points the way. A branch floated from the sea and he brought it to point. This is the way.
At the top of the hill, they stop, breathe hard. Machxisa set down the basket. In fog moving beneath them, fires cast a light over the camp.
PAN AREA BELOW where camp is seen.
MACHXISA
Five unhappy winters there.
TUMGAX
What we find ahead will be better. Our lives will be our own.
ANGAYUK
Hurry. We must now go down to the beach.
They reach the beach.
TUMGAX
The rocks look so much the same. I must search for the moon rock in darkness.
Tumgax slips on moist rocks, twisting this way and that.
Boiling clouds part. A beam of moonlight illuminates the shore. One rock stands out like glass.
TUMGAX
There it is. The moon rock that protects the hiding place.
Tumgax scrambles behind the translucent rock. Pushes back thick bushes. There lays a skin boat with ribs of sturdy driftwood.
ANGAYUK
Bidarka with paddles. Machxisa sit in middle. Tumgax to the front.
Machxisa slips in. Places the basket between her legs. Tumgax takes the bow. Angayuk pushes them off.
PAN WATER and ROCKY BLUFF
ON THE WATER the bidarka glides out into a choppy sea. Moonlight gleams silvery on the rocky bluff above them.
TUMGAX
Is that a spirit?
(pointing at lighted cliff)
Like an otter. See the waves are long fingers splashing out to us.
ANGAYUK
It sends us on a safe journey.
EXT. FADE IN TOWARD UNIVERSITY OFFICE
INT. DR. LEE'S OFFICE - AFTERNOON
JARED
The family paddled north into the wind and waves to a new, free life.
(replaces ivory chip in basket and pulls outs a silk ribbon)
| Author Notes |
Next scene in family history told by Jared to a curator at UA Museum of the North. All stories are based on the historic family basket.
Many thanks to avmurray for picture of Lake Louise. |
By Alaskastory
EXT. FADE IN TOWARD UNIVERSITY OFFICE
INT. DR. LEE'S OFFICE - AFTERNOON
JARED
The family paddled north into the wind and waves to a new, free life.
(replaces ivory chip in basket and pulls out a silk ribbon)
DR. LEE
(reaches out to hold the ribbon)
This is a fine silk. Surely it's from China.
JARED
In 1894, it was a treasure to Irina when she was young in Kodiak.
DR. LEE
Ah, yes, that was a time when Alexander Baranov was the manager for Russian America Company and later became the governor.
JARED
Catherine the Great of Russia appointed him to start colonies.
DR. LEE
Tell me about Irina.
JARED
Her father was Tumgax, experienced seaman and a great hunter. Irina's mother was Morava who sewed fine dresses and made baskets.
EXT. PATHWAY THROUGH TALL FIR TREES - AFTERNOON
Barefoot teenage girl in a well-made, faded dress of once fine fabric, hurries along then is STARTLED.
CRACK sound of twigs breaking under a foot. Irina twists about, faces a turbaned young man in a shimmering silk shirt and pants that balloon above fabric boots.
IRINA
(with a gasp)
I thought you were a bear. Bears are so huge!
(showing annoyance)
May I ask who you are?
RICHARD
Good day, Miss. I am Richard Zanskar.
(speaks in notable accent)
IRINA
Did you come on the Phoenix from Calcutta, India? My Uncle Alexander Baranov spoke of the British ship loaded with flour and supplies. The first ship here in four years.
RICHARD
(appears confused)
I do not know all your Russian words.
IRINA
Then I'll speak Aleut.
RICHARD
No. I speak the words of Bengal my home and German and English.
(He hops on fallen tree, standing tall above her)
IRINA
Will you sail back to Bengal soon?
RICHARD
Captain Moore says I stay to serve Sir Baranov. Speak the English for him.
(pinches fingers together)
I speak only some little Russian words.
IRINA
(hesitates, stares at him then brushes pass)
I must hurry on to Anna's birthday tea.
RICHARD
Who is Anna?
IRINA
The daughter of the Governor.
(turns away)
RICHARD
Don't go until you say your name.
(gives broad smile)
IRINA
(calls back)
Call me Irina.
Hardened mud path up a knoll to mansion overlooking the harbor. Irina knocks on the door. Running footsteps inside are heard. Door swings open. Irina enters.
INT. FOYER OF LARGE HOUSE
ANNA
You are here at last, Irina.
(clasps smooth white hands over Irina's brown, rough fingers)
I need to talk with you.
Irina follows Anna up carpeted stairs to her bedroom.
INT. BEDROOM DECORATED IN WHITE LACE AND PINK RUFFLES - AFTERNOON
IRINA
I can guess what you need to say. Perhaps that Nikolai Rezanov is handsome and speaks French. Tell me why a true nobleman would be sent here.
ANNA
To help my father, Governor Shelikhov, prepare for coming priests, etcetera, etcetera.
(twirls about, holding out her flowing skirt)
Please tell me how I look?
IRINA
Your dress is the color of your lovely blue eyes.
ANNA
But do I look older? More mature?
(stands before an oval mirror, stretches as tall as she can)
IRINA
Why do you want to look older than fifteen?
ANNA
Because my gentleman friend is thirty years.
IRINA
Oh Anna, are you really hoping to marry Captain Rezanov?
ANNA
Just who else on this island would my father give his consent to marry me?
IRINA
No one, I'm sure. But why a man who will someday return to Russia?
ANNA
Father says he a man who can speak to Tsarina Catherine the Great and somehow get more trade with China for the Russian American Company.
IRINA
I don't understand a word about all that, Anna. When my father speaks it is of fur seals and otters.
ANNA
Everyone knows Tumgax brings great skills learned long ago. He helped make life better here, but this life is not what I want.
IRINA
You want to live far away?
ANNA
Where ladies wear tall hats and ride in horse-drawn carriages.
(pins her long, blond hair in curls atop her head)
With Nikolai I will sail to Saint Petersburg.
Anna flops down on her bed. Irina slides on beside her.
IRINA
They say it takes a whole year to journey to Saint Petersburg.
(swallows back a sob. sits up)
You will forget me and be gone forever.
ANNA
I can never forget playing piano with you. Or crocheting and writing poems. Or making baskets and bead necklaces?
(throws her arms around Irina)
You are my true friend.
IRINA
(reaches into a pocket)
I made you a present. It's for your birthday.
ANNA
(holding a tiny basket)
Oh, the lid is embroidered with red silk. You have your mother's skill. I shall hug it to my heart forever.
IRINA
It will remind you of me.
(plants a kiss on Anna's cheek)
Distant noise of front door opening, voices greeting a visitor.
ANNA
Hear that? Nikolai Rezanov is here.
(pulls on Irina's arm)
Let's go down and meet him.
IRINA
Want me to tie back your hair first?
Irina reaches for a hair brush.
ANNA
Yes. Please help me look older.
Irina fastens a barrette in Anna's hair. Then they clasp hands and leave the room.
INT. PAN LIVING AREA FILLED WITH FAMILY AND GUESTS
Anna escorts Irina into the party then leaves her on her own. Irina moves around the room toward the front door. She escapes the party.
INT. WOOD-FRAME HOME, IN LIVING ROOM- LATER
Irina hurriedly sits near her mother in a cozy living room.
MORAVA
Irina, you're back so soon. How was the tea?
(she looks up from preparing strands of grass)
What do you think of Anna's beau?
IRINA
He is too tall and his face too long. Mrs. Shelikhov insisted he play a violin that had only squeaks and no melody. Anna is too young for that old Captain.
MORAVA
At fifteen years my gift was the great hunter, Tumgax. You see the better life he gave me with a cook stove, sink for water, cushions on our chairs.
IRINA
(toys with a hair ribbon Anna gave her)
Anna lives in the finest house. Why does she want to leave?
MORAVA
Ah, she is Russian. She wants the luxuries her mother once knew in Siberia.
Irina shakes her head. As a distraction, she picks up a large unfinished basket.
IRINA
You have added a lid and red silk threads to our ancestors' basket.
(rubs a finger over the red decorations)
Shapes are like the teeth of a killer whale.
MORAVA
Signs of the Orca will keep bones of our ancestors safe inside until Tumgax can return them to Attu someday.
IRINA
Attu is far across the sea. I met someone from a strange land that is far, far away. A boy named Richard.
MORAVA
I have heard of that young man. We will see him soon. Uncle Alexander Baranov is hosting the British sea captain who landed with supplies. Auntie plans a big dinner.
INT. LARGE DINING AREA IN LOG HOME - EVENING
Long table spread with platters of roasted deer meat and salmon, dishes of oysters, clams, potatoes, green vegetables and fried bread. Baranov's guests include Anna's parents (Shelikhovs), Irina and her parents (Tumgax and Morava), British sea captain and his first mate, and a one-legged, ship builder Mr. Kuskov and Richard Zanskar. Irina sits across from Richard (in orange turban and silky white shirt).
ALEXANDER BARANOV
(rising from the head of the table)
It is our pleasure to welcome the Captain and his ship. After many months at sea, you have replenished our supplies.
Everyone joins Baranov is raising glasses of rum in salute.
ALEXANDER BARANOV
You have brought us much news from the world and we shall give you a piece of Kodiak news to take with you. It is news from Governor Shelikhov.
He sits and the Governor rises.
GOV. SHELIKHOV
(raising his glass)
I do have an announcement. I am humbly impressed to tell you the esteemed Captain Nikolai Rezanov has offered his hand in marriage to our daughter, Anna.
Glasses raise and shouts of salute. Irina swallows back tears and sinks back in her chair. Richard's dark eyes settle on her.
RICHARD
It was six days ago that we met, Irina.
(flashes a winning smile)
IRINA
That was the last day that I was able to see Anna. Soon there will be many years that I will not see my friend.
RICHARD
I must go, too, in search of a new place to build a colony. But our plan is to return.
ALEXANDER BARANOV
Yes, Richard will travel south with me and Kuskov. The Olga will test my skill to navigate.
TUMGAX
Takes great skill on stormy autumn seas and the further south you go, watch out for warlike Tlingit tribes.
GOV. SHELIKHOV
(lifting his glass)
A toast to you brave fellows for exploring as far as the sound of Sitka.
EXT. ENTRY PORCH, BARANOV HOME - LATER
Irina slips outside onto porch as the summer sky begins to darken. She settles on a bench, gazing at light fading on the ocean. Richard appears, a silhouette in light from the open door.
RICHARD
There is sadness all about you. Anna is fortunate to have such a friend in her life.
IRINA
(wipes her eyes on a scrap of cloth)
I will be lonely at many times without her.
RICHARD
It would make me glad if you let me be your friend.
Irina hesitates, looking at him thoughtfully.
IRINA
You are treated like a son in my uncle's house. Living here almost makes us cousins.
(gives him a teasing smile)
Richard sits down beside her.
RICHARD
So, you will lose a fired, but you have gained a cousin.
Irina laughs, and so does he.
EXT. FADE-OUT OVER OCEAN AND IN TOWARD UNIVERSITY OFFICE
INT. DR. LEE'S OFFICE - AFTERNOON
JARED
They did sail off and one-day settled in New Archangel near Sitka. Much later, in the year 1834, the son of Irina and Richard was a teenager there.
| Author Notes |
Script is based on my book, The Spirit Basket. Adventures begin in the year 1745 and run through to 2015. Each scene depicts what a teenager may have actually experienced.
Many thanks to MoonWillow for the picture that very loosely senses the scene. |
By Alaskastory
Scene 4
EXT. FADE-OUT OVER OCEAN AND IN TOWARD UNIVERSITY OFFICE
INT. DR. LEE'S OFFICE - AFTERNOON
DR. LEE
So, Irina and Richard lived their lives together?
JARED
Yes, with their six children they settled far out on the Aleutian Chain at Unalaska. For many years Richard paddled canoes on high seas to serve a priest traveling from one colony to the next.
DR. LEE
That had to be Father Ioann Veniaminov of the Russian Orthodox Church. He was a brilliant man known as an inventor, builder and the master of several languages. He actually wrote an Aleut dictionary and did biblical translations.
JARED
The youngest son, Mikhail Zanskar, was a student in his school. ~He was picked to travel to Sitka Island in 1834. Father Veniaminov needed his help.
DR. LEE
What sort of help could that boy do?
JARED
Two things. Quickly learn the Tlingit language to communicate with unfriendly Indians. And Keep company with Timofei, a son of the priest.
EXT. DOCK FOR BOARDING A SHIP - MORNING
Pier is crowded with passengers and freight preparing to board a skiff that will be paddled to a ship in the harbor. Father Veniaminov stands much taller than anyone and is with his wife and son, Timofei, who is younger but a head taller than Mikhail. Mikhail is beside his large family consisting of three older sisters, husbands and their children, his mother, Irina, and father, Richard. Irina is holding the large family ancestral basket.
IRINA
All you will need in New Archangel is packed in this basket. Your grandmother would want you to have it.
MIKHAIL
(takes the basket and strokes the red designs)
I promise to give it good care.
RICHARD
Every day you are away I shall remember when I sailed there with Baranov. The colony did well until it was destroyed.
IRINA
The good Father is sure to teach the Tlingit Indians to turn away from fighting.
VENIAMINOV
(wears a broad smile.)
I am thankful to hear you say that, Irina. The Tlingit people are difficult but clever and smart traders. They are to be admired.
TIMOFEI
(a pout of discontent on his face)
How can we admire them if they worship birds and animal gods?
VENIAMINOV
These people have much to learn about Christ, but their art and culture is advanced compared to many in the world.
TIMOFEI
Mikhail says they killed hundreds of colonists. I want to go back to Siberia ...and so does Mother.
RICHARD
I did tell him stories of how Captain Baranov set up the colony. Years later it was attacked.
MIKHAIL
But it was long ago that it happened. Now Father Veniaminov speaks their language.
VENIAMINOV
And so do you Mikhail, my good student. Come on. Time to get into the skiff.
Mikhail quickly gives sisters, nephews, nieces and his mother and father farewell hugs, boards the skiff. His teary gaze lingers on the family he leaves behind.
EXT. SIX DAYS LATER SHIP ENTERS A BUSY HARBOR - AFTERNOON
MIKHAIL
Can you smell that?
(takes deep breaths)
It's trees, real trees. Not ones that drift to the beach.
TIMOFEI
Six days to get here. So now we might get off and go climb a tree.
MIKHAIL
But look, Timofei, at what the Tlingit's have made of trees. Houses, boats.
One side of the shoreline are fiercely decorated wooden boats and a row of houses.
TIMOFEI
I see what I want to see. A fence! It's really high and goes all around the town.
MIKHAIL
Looks like a stockade of cannons. There's a church with a steeple and a very large home up on that hill.
VENIAMINOV
(comes up and puts a hand on his son's shoulder)
That is Baranov Castle, the governor's mansion. And, I do believe coming along side us is Governor Wrangell.
Sailors paddle a boat up to the ship. A short man with a bright red beard waves and begins to shout.
WRANGELL
I am Baron Ferdinand von Wrangell. The governor of Russian America. No one may come ashore until vaccinated for smallpox. Cursed American whalers have spread deathly sickness here.
VENIAMINOV
We all have been vaccinated in Unalaska.
The governor responded by signaling he would board. Father Veniaminov gave him a hand and pulled him onto the deck. Despite his tall hat, the governor barely reached the priest's chest. He shook hands.
WRANGELL
Welcome to New Archangel. Boats will take you to shore. When you get settled in quarters, do not ever go beyond the wall that encircles the town. The stockade is there to keep hostile Indians out. Please be guests in my home for dinner.
INT. BARANOV CASTLE SITTING ROOM - EVENING
A piano is being played and is accompanied by a violinist. The sounds are foreign to Mikhail. He covers his ears.
TIMOFEI
Don't you want to listen, Mikhail? The music sounds so good.
MIKHAIL
It is the loudest noise I ever heard. The sounds scream at me.
VENIAMINOV
You need not stay. Feel free to run on back to our quarters.
TIMOFEI
It's kind of scary out there.
MIKHAIL
Want to check out the bell tower? It will be a good climb, Timofei.
Timofei eyes widen. Father Veniaminov gives his son an approving nod.
TIMOFEI
I guess I'll go.
Mikhail grabs his arm and they exit.
INT. BELL TOWER OF THE CHURCH - EVENING
The summer sun is beginning to set as the boys climb up a long case of twisting stairs.
MIKHAIL
We see so much from up here.
(looks about, stops abruptly)
TIMOFEI
(looking in opposite direction)
There are houses all the way up that road. Someone has a horse pulling a cart and two people are riding bicycles.
MIKHAIL
Over here I see a tribe there along the beach. Men and women tending cook fires.
(he gasps)
TIMOFEI
(pressing against Mikhail)
I hear screaming and Indians are running all around.
MIKHAIL
Look a woman who screams carries her child into the sea.
A man waving a mask chases after the woman who plunges the lifeless child into water.
MIKHAIL
Hear the words the shaman yells? It means, "Child burns with evil".
TIMOFEI
Ugly bird beak on the mask.
MIKHAIL
He wags his mask over her, but she still screams and plunges the child. How sad! See the little one's hair float over the water?
Timofei stumbles into the church bell. It gives a loud BONG. A startling silence follows. Mikhail grabs hold of Timofei.
MIKHAIL
Crouch, Timofei, the villagers are looking up here. One is raising his fist.
TIMOFEI
(trembling)
I'm sorry, I'm sorry. The whole town heard the bell.
MIKHAIL
Let's get down the stairs.
They descend the steep staircase.
INT. LOG CABIN QUARTERS - EVENING
Both boys hunch over and sit at the table. The boys jump up and stand at attention as Father Veniaminov and his wife enter.
VENIAMINOV
(slight smile)
We are well aware you reached the top of the bell tower.
MRS. VENIAMINOV
Did you enjoy seeing all the sights from up there.
TIMOFEI
No, it was so terrible. The lady threw her baby in the ocean.
Timofei rushes into his mother's arms. She looks shocked. Father Veniaminov turns an intense blue-eyed stare to Mikhail.
MIKHAIL
At first the Indian village was peaceful with men and women tending fires and doing chores. Then, instantly, everyone started chasing after a screaming woman. She carried a limp child into the sea.
TIMOFEI
A witch doctor yelled at her.
MIKHAIL
The masked shaman cried, "Child burns with evil".
VENIAMINOV
No doubt the child has smallpox.
(hesitates with head prayerfully bowed)
Tomorrow morning I'll insist the governor allows us to visit those people.
TIMOFEI
Tomorrow? So soon?
VENIAMINOV
(touching his son's shoulder)
I'm sure your mother will need your help tomorrow. Mikhail will go with me.
MIKHAIL
(trying to sound brave)
Yes sir.
EXT. OUTSIDE GARDEN AT BARANOV CASTLE - MORNING
In light rain four soldier with rifles lead the way. Fr Veniaminov appears in full white flowing robe, lofty headdress covering his unruly hair. Following is Dr. Popov in a black coat, derby and carrying a doctor's valise. Mikhail hurries to walk beside the priest.
MIKHAIL
(on wooden boardwalk they pass many buildings)
The governor is letting us go through the stockade?
VENIAMINOV
It did take some encouragement.
At the wall, soldiers unbar the gate. Veniaminov raises a hand to stop them from leading the way.
VENIAMINOV
You men wait here for our return.
DR. POPOV
The Governor ordered them to protect us...
VENIAMINOV
We will walk not with soldiers, but with God.
DR. POPOV
That can't be wise. I won't enter without their protection.
VENIAMINOV
(thoughtfully stroking his beard)
Give the serum to Mikhail. He will carry it to the dying children.
Veniaminov turns on his heal and stomps off down the hill. The rain stops. Sunlight beams off the white robe.
DR. POPOV
What? I never heard of such...
MIKHAIL
(taking the bag from the doctor)
I saw a tiny child with its hair floating in sea foam. They need help.
Mikhail runs after Veniaminov.
MIKHAIL
Father, behind us there are cannons on the wall that are aimed right at the village.
VENIAMINOV
That helps to explain the looks of anger, fear, and deep sadness. Listen, many voices are speaking.
Dozens of small wood houses line the beach. Veniaminov stops at the largest one painted with a long, red tongue hanging from the face of a bear. Boats on the beach are decorated, men wear hats shaped like birds or animals. Women huddle together, babies strapped to their backs and children cling to their fringed shawls.
VENIAMINOV
(with long arms outstretched)
I am your friend.
(speaks slowly in their language)
Here to protect you and your children from the smallpox disease.
SHAMAN
(points a bird-beaked mask)
What is this? You bring a trick?
WOMAN
(with arms around two children)
Shaman called to gods. Yet, my two sons and my husband died. My sister too. Only these children are left.
VENIAMINOV
(a tall figure towering over all)
Bring them to me.
MIKHAIL
(indicating a sturdy log for sitting)
The Father will help you.
WOMAN
(scowling toward men holding spears)
I must try.
SECOND WOMAN
I will bring my son too.
Other women fall back around the shaman. The men circle Mikhail and Veniaminov.
MIKHAIL
Be brave. This little mosquito bite will keep you well.
Veniaminov does not hesitate. Mikhail opens the bag and Veniaminov gives shots to the women and their children.
INT. BARANOV CASTLE SITTING ROOM - EVENING
WRANGELL
(lifting a glass for a toast)
At the end of this summer, your frequent visits to strong-willed, Tlingit people made them become friends. Many even attend church services. Tell me what your secret is?
VENIAMINOV
In order to influence the heart, one must speak from the heart. Then the hearts of listeners will find your words hard to resist.
MIKHAIL
I will forever remember that secret.
FADE AWAY to University of Alaska campus and museum.
INT. DR. LEE'S OFFICE - AFTERNOON
DR. LEE
Amazing how Father Ioann Veniaminov was such an outstanding missionary priest. In history, both here and in Russia, he is revered as Saint Innocent of Alaska.
| Author Notes |
This screenplay is based on my novel, The Spirit Basket, beginning in 1745, ending in 2015. Each scene depicts what a teenager may have actually experienced in times of struggle.
Many thanks to benhar for "Ship in the Night" illustration. |
By Alaskastory
FADE AWAY to University of Alaska campus and museum.
INT. DR. LEE'S OFFICE - AFTERNOON
DR. LEE
Amazing how Father Ioann Veniaminov was such an outstanding missionary priest. In history and today in Russia, he is revered as Saint Innocent of Alaska.
JARED
He traveled in Russia, but returned to New Archangel in the 1840's.
DR. LEE
Oh, but in 1867 the name of that town was changed.
JARED
Sitka. That's what America renamed the capital city. 7.2 million U.S. dollars bought Alaska from Russia.
DR. LEE
Then was Mikhail still there?
JARED
Yes, he settled in the Indian village with a Tlingit wife named Neva. They had children named Annarovia and Taku. This was a turbulent time.
EXT. DIRT STREETS CROWED WITH SOLDIERS AND THE PUBLIC - AFTERNOON
It is October 18, 1867, the sun beginning to set over the seaside town. Teenager, Annarovia, and her mother, Neva, are dressed in artfully beaded deerskin dresses and moccasins. Their heads turn toward the top of the hill where the Governor, his wife and five children await near a flagpole. The Russian Imperial flag hangs limply overhead.
NEVA
This is a frightening day. We shall lose the good Governor Prince Dimitrii Petrovich Maksutov and his family.
ANNAROVIA
Oh, Mother, see how our beautiful princess holds her baby, looking so sad. Will the Russian Company move away when our land goes to America?
NEVA
(sigh of uncertainty)
Who knows?
(DRUMS begin beating)
Look, Russian sailors and soldiers are marching in.
PAN crowded streets
A Russian battalion marches through town. They stop at attention before the Prince near the flagpole.
ANNAROVIA
More drumming now. Looks like two American Generals leading soldiers.
Over 200 American soldiers trail two Generals and come to a stop before the flagpole. Russians soldiers hold out the rope to use for descending the flag. A sudden BOOM fractures the air. Cannon fire from Ossipee, an American ship in the harbor. Russian cannon fire on shore answers. The flag begins to edge down.
ANNAROVIA
(holding hands over her ears)
Cannons first and now the American soldiers are firing their rifles.
Deafening, round after round are fired. The pungent scent of spent gunpowder washes over the crowd. Abruptly, firing stops. A stunned silence falls over all.
NEVA
Look how they must struggle to lower the Russian Imperial flag.
ANNAROVIA
It is stuck. They can't get it untangled.
A Russian soldier flips the pulley rope, but can't free the flag. Another soldier gives him a boost on his shoulders. With the slash of a knife the flag falls. It catches enough breeze to float over Russian soldiers and settle on the points of raised bayonets.
NEVA
(clinging to her daughter)
This is surely an omen.
ANNAROVIA
(gasping)
Princess Maksutova has fainted.
The ceremony stops as a doctor bends over the princess in a black satin gown. She is revived and weakly returns to her royal chair.
ANNAROVIA
What omen is it, Mother?
NEVA
Trouble. Much trouble may come.
An American General shouts a command and his soldiers quickly raise the flag of the United States of America.
EXT. CAMP IN DARKNESS - EVENING
Neva and Annarovia return to the Indian village a short distance from town. In front of their wooden home, Mikhail is chopping wood.
MIKHAIL
(giving hugs to his wife and daughter)
How was the ceremony?
NEVA
Noisy and a bit scary.
(she goes on inside their home)
ANNAROVIA
The American general gave a speech and his soldiers cheered. But when the royal family rode away, no one else seemed happy at all.
MIKHAIL
(smiling at his daughter)
Fishermen don't like the town name getting changed from New Archangel to just plain Sitka?
ANNAROVIA
Mother says it's because Russia needed American money to pay for some war they are fighting.
MIKHAIL
That's what they say. We are sure to miss having The Russian Company here. So many people will be sailing back to Russia.
ANNAROVIA
I hope not Mrs. Petrokov. I need my teacher. She shows a map with many places in Alaska. Russians are everywhere over the land.
MIKHAIL
(thoughtfully pointing toward the thick forest)
This is Sitka Island. Long ago my father, Richard, was here when Chief Sha-yut-leit traded land with Lord Baranov and the town was built.
ANNAROVIA
You told me so many wonderful stories about working with Father Veniaminov. Now I want to know more about other places in Alaska.
MIKHAIL
(giving his daughter a hug)
Ask your teacher when you see her tomorrow.
INT. CLASSROOM IN TOWN - AFTERNOON
At the end of the school day a few students file out the classroom door leaving Annarovia and the teacher. Annarovia busily cleans up the room, rubs a cloth over the blackboard.
ANNAROVIA
Mrs. Petrorov, How could America buy this land when it belongs, not to them, but to my people?
MRS. PETROROV
(chuckles and pats the girl's glossy black hair)
My dear girl, you must remember that Indians are not allowed to own land. Not by the Americans.
ANNAROVIA
But why? Because we don't speak the English language?
MRS. PETROROV
(brushes chalk dust from her long skirt)
Indians are not considered civilized. But Annarovia, I find you very bright. You have learned Russian words. It will be good for you to learn English too.
ANNAROVIA
Will learning to read and write English make it possible to own my own land?
MRS. PETROROV
(sighing wearily)
Speaking the language of America may win you a man one day who owns land.
ANNAROVIA
Oh, no. I will die before marrying an American. They brought smallpox here and they trade rum with my people.
MRS. PETROROV
I agree. This land has been cursed. Our good Russian laws have been thrown out. When there is no more protection only the strongest will survive, Annarovia. You must hurry home now.
ANNAROVIA
(at the door she glances back at her teacher)
I wonder what will become of us.
EXT. ON THE EDGE OF THE FOREST, VILLAGE BEGINS - AFTERNOON
Annarovia stops to gaze with pride at the village. In front of her house her father, Mikhail, is carving on a totem pole.
ANNAROVIA
(smiling)
Father, is that massive log the cedar tree you told me about?
MIKHAIL
Since there is no cedar trees here, I had this log shipped far from the south. Cedar lasts through years of rain. It will be the first totem in Sitka and will tell the story of your mother's family.
ANNAROVIA
You ~are starting a new tradition for Tlingit people?
Loud woman's scream followed by men shouting out curses.
MIKHAIL
Anna, run to the house. Now!
Annarovia runs across the clearing and into her home.
INT. HOME FURNISHED WITH HANDMADE CHAIRS, TABLE - AFTERNOON
Taku, her eight-year-old brother is crouched under the table holding a long steel-blade knife.
ANNAROVIA
Taku! What are you doing?
NEVA
(grips sewing needle and takes rapid stitches)
Your brother wants to protect. Drunken soldiers wander the village, making threats.
Annarovia slumps to the floor stretching trembling arms around her mother. Shouts from outside fade. Mikhail enters.
MIKHAIL
We persuaded them to leave. Hunta had a rifle.
(takes knife from Taku)
TAKU
Wish I had a rifle like Hunta.
NEVA
(reassuring, motherly voice)
Rifles are for hunting deer, not men.
MIKHAIL
No man in the village believes that any longer. Danger grows from American soldiers. Hunta speaks of an Indian army.
ANNAROVIA
Good. It's time our people take possession of the land. The land is ours.
MIKHAIL
People cannot own the land, the rivers or the sea. Those are only our friends.
Months later. Late December.
EXT. OUTSIDE THE RUSSIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH - MORNING
Annarovia finds the classroom door locked, knocks. No answer. She goes to the front entrance of the church and the door is ajar. A window is broken.
SOLDIER 1
(voice behind her)
Hey, Little Girl. Don't go in. There's been damage inside.
SECOND SOLDIER
Sorry to tell you some drunks got in there and went wild.
ANNAROVIA
(shaking with fright but speaks English)
Priest? My teacher? Where are they?
SOLDIER 1
I suspect they sailed out on the Nena last night.
SECOND SOLDIER
A couple hundred sailed out of here for Russia on the high tide. Too bad because the American congress granted them land if they stayed.
SOLDIER 1
Sure sad they were scared away by rampagers. Well, this time they tore up a church. The General just has to do something about that.
He kneels down and speaks gently to the girl whose eyes are fixed on his muddy boots.
SOLDIER 1
You run along home now, Little Miss. There's nothing for you here.
Annarovia turns away and walks slowly home on a snow-covered path.
INT. HOME FURNISHED WITH HANDMADE CHAIRS, TABLE - MORNING
ANNAROVIA
(as she enters calls out)
Father Petrokov has taken his family away. They sailed without saying good-bye.
TAKU
What did they go for?
NEVA
I heard the good Father was called to the cathedral in Saint Petersburg.
ANNAROVIA
(with tears she falls to her mother's knees)
Fear made them leave. Sitka is no longer safe.
NEVA
(wiping daughter's cheek with a cloth)
It is safe here in the village.
TAKU
Thanks to Hunta. Americans are afraid to come here. Everybody will see that tomorrow at the potlatch.
NEVA
The totem pole is to be celebrated by all clans. The Eagles and Ravens will come from upriver. Anna, there are geese, salmon and berries for us to prepare.
(she hands Annarovia a big woven basket)
ANNAROVIA
(lifting the lid she inhales deeply)
There will be feasting, music, dancing.
NEVA
All will be strong, powerful, ancient, enduring.
ANNAROVIA
(smiling)
Mother, when all the clans come together, there will be many more warriors than all of the American soldiers. They will always protect our village.
FADE AWAY to University of Alaska campus and museum.
INT. DR. LEE'S OFFICE - AFTERNOON
DR. LEE
The American government was full of conflict and slow to adjust on how to govern the Territory of Alaska.
JARED
Then gold rush happened and that made U.S. officials pay more attention to Alaska. In 1900, Annarovia's son named Peter let gold become his life.
| Author Notes |
This screenplay is based on my novel, The Spirit Basket, that begins in 1745 and ends in 2015. Each scene depicts what a teenager may have actually experienced in times of struggle.
Many thanks for the Totem illustration by Mr. Jones. Family Tree: (so far) Fairbanks - Jared Sheikov, tells story to Dr. Lee Attu Island - 1745 Angayuk and Ruuwaq, sons of village chief Aleutian Island - 1770: Tumgax, son of Angayuk and Machxisa Kodiak - 1794: Irina, daughter of Tumgax and Morava New Archangel - 1834: Mikhail Zanskar, son of Irina and Richard Sitka - 1867: Annarovia Zanskar, daughter of Mikhail and Neva |
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