Original subtitles

Come on, Andy, we're late.

the TV people here.

I called and I told them the governor might make a surprise appearance.

You lied to them?

I invited him. He could have come, right? How long can your people maintain

red stripe if basic services are turned off? Listen, if they cut off water and

power for these people, that's not only inhumane, that's criminal.

Is that all right?

Yeah, fine.

Mrs. Ryan, are you saying that Councilman Whalen ought to be held

liable?

All I'm saying is if the shoe fits, the councilman may have to wear it. Ms.

Bryant, I'd like to ask you one last question.

She's finished talking.

Get in the car, darling.

Thank you. Thank you.

Thank you.

Bryant, are you sick?

I think the councilman is the one who's going to be sick.

Maybe if you checked into the hospital.

Not until we nail Will. There's lots of Willings, but only one Peggy Ryan.

Thank God. I don't think the world could take two of us.

I've been looking all over for you.

I'm late for history.

Cut it. Let's get some beers and go for a ride.

I can't miss any more classes.

How about after school, then? My mom's sick.

Your mom's always sick, Charlie.

That's not her fault. She could hardly get out of bed this morning.

Let her stay in bed.

She needs me.

I need you.

I've got to go.

Please.

I know you loved it.

I like the way you giggled last time.

Just not now, okay?

Labor's late, you fail half the exams, and then you cut my class.

All I need's a couple more days.

Rules are rules, Charlie. If you don't do the work, you don't graduate.

No more games.

No, I'll finish. I promise.

From what I hear, you're not doing too well in English either.

What's going on?

Nothing. I guess I'm just not very smart.

Plenty smart.

He did fine last semester.

You still working that job after school?

I'll be late for biology, I swear. Two days.

that you would go.

But don't pass this street. I don't graduate.

This is getting real old, Charlie. You never want to go anywhere anymore.

I'm sorry. Or you agree and then you break the date.

I was really counting on you.

Why don't you ask Lisa?

Because Lisa's not my friend. You are.

Or worse.

You learned a joke?

Say, who's there?

He's there.

Oh, God.

He's a funny guy.

Go. Okay.

We need 20 ,000 signatures to get on the ballot.

We don't have the money. Well, let me worry about that. Take your pill.

Hello?

Oh, yes, Mr. Dalton.

Yes, he's right here.

It's the electric company.

Get the vacuum.

Hello, Mr. Dalton.

Yes.

Nobody goes home hungry, right?

No. Right.

We haven't got much.

I'm sure you'll make it delicious.

Let me help.

All we have is macaroni and cheese.

Oh, I love macaroni and cheese.

You're lucky to have a mother like that. I hope you appreciate her.

I do.

She was terrific at the rally.

That was it.

How are you doing?

I'm doing great. Are you sure?

Why shouldn't I be?

You don't look right to me.

Sister, I'm fine.

Charlie, would you bring me $20 from the jar, please?

Here you go.

It's only until payday. Not to worry.

What did you do in school today? You learned a joke.

What joke?

Cowboy. A cowboy joke. Oh, my.

Well, you didn't say much at dinner.

Nothing to say.

I think it's clean.

What's up?

Why did you give Mary $20?

Because she asked me for it.

What about the man from the phone company?

Well, who do you think needs that money more, Mary or Ma Bell?

Don't you ever get scared?

The bastards haven't turned the phone off yet, have they?

That doesn't mean they won't.

I won't let them. I'm invincible, remember?

How are you going to stop them? By giving away more of our money to your

so you can be a hero?

Sorry.

I didn't mean that.

You listen to me.

There's nothing that we Ryan women can't handle together. Nothing.

What is that? It means Mama's going to take care of everything.

Charlie, I want you to call Jennifer and go out to the mall.

But I can't. Sure you can.

I got homework to do. I would feel much better if I knew you were having a good

time.

Mama, I don't know. Please, do it for me.

I love this place. If you can't fall in love here, you are helpless.

What can I get for you? Can I have Tom Collins, please?

A ginger ale, please.

Can you put some rum in that?

A bar?

I know what it is.

Those on my tab, Mike?

Ladies like to join us? No, thank you.

We're waiting for a friend.

Well, talk it over.

You said your friend isn't coming?

He'll be here.

Why did you say no? The guy at the table is cute.

They're pimps.

What? You know, men who sell women for money?

I know what a pimp is.

But he doesn't look like a pimp.

And how many pimps did you know?

funny. Oh, God, he's coming this way.

Ignore him.

Ignore him.

You like the band?

Uh, no thanks. I was leaving.

It was after one.

What was after one?

Charlie didn't get in until one in the morning on a school night.

I know. I was up.

I want to finish this recall petition.

I used to work 60 hours a week, took care of an invalid mother and a husband,

and you were never... You were a wonderful mother.

Don't be smart with me.

What did you ever want for?

Let it be, Mama.

If you were still married and Charlie had a father, she wouldn't be out till

hours. Couldn't stand John when I was married to him. That's not true.

And I liked Andy's father, but you wouldn't marry him, would you? I didn't

him.

Let's put our cards on the table.

Nothing I ever do is right. Nothing is ever good enough, is it?

Did you ever say to me, Peggy, boy, you've done a good job, or Peggy, how

you look, or...

Or Peggy, you know, I'm so proud to be your mother.

Lots of times.

Oh, funny. I never heard it.

Did the best I could.

We all do, Mama.

I can't fool you, can I?

See, we're playing the wise ass.

You smoke.

Yeah, I've been trying to stop for years.

I'll have more willpower.

You want to discuss this?

No. I want to smoke cigarettes and sulk, okay?

You want to sulk, you get your butt up to your room. Drive yourself crazy, not

me.

You want to discuss this?

I'm here.

I'm not graduating.

Sorry.

I'm not going to be able to work.

We'll be fine.

We haven't got any money, Mama.

We'll get some.

How?

You hardly work. You get exhausted getting dressed in the morning.

I'm going to be fine, and so are you.

Right.

If taking care of Andy and helping around the house is too much for you...

Mama, I can handle it. Of course you can.

You're my daughter, right?

You'll see, everything's going to be okay.

Not to worry. Soon the money's going to be rolling.

Through this holy anointing, may the Lord in his love and mercy help you with

the grace of the Holy Spirit.

Amen.

You can only stay a minute. She's still very weak.

How long before she's okay?

We finally diagnosed your mother's illness.

She's suffering from a rare disease called polymyositis.

What does that mean?

It's a chronic condition in her immune system that affects her muscles.

From time to time, they'll break down, become weak.

Is she dying? She survived this attack, but she'll have to be careful.

She needs to be as stress -free as possible.

Well, how long before she can work?

Not in the foreseeable future.

Oh, I'm sorry I scared you, baby.

I saw the priest.

You didn't see me kick him out of the room, though, did you?

I told him my daughter and I had lots of things to do. I was too busy to die.

I'm going to be fine, baby.

But Dr. Warren, he...

Disturbing anything?

No, no, Charlie and I were just making girl talk.

Hi, Charlie.

Hi, Daddy.

How are you feeling?

I'm like going dancing.

Thought I'd take Charlie for dinner.

Andy, he needs me. Your grandmother and your aunt are looking after him.

Go.

I'm not really hungry.

Out.

That's an order.

I'll be here after dinner.

That's a promise.

How's school?

It's great.

Allison's her best.

That's nice.

We didn't have you over. It's just this new baby and all.

I think I'm too old for this stuff.

I understand.

I'm kind of busy myself.

I haven't been there for you.

It wasn't because I didn't want to, legally.

It's just that when two people get divorced... It's not a problem.

Charlie, come on, I'm trying.

Don't tell me it's not a problem.

What do you want, Daddy?

I want us to be like other fathers and daughters.

You mean the kind that see each other more than once every four months?

I love you, Charlie.

Maybe someday you'll love me.

I've got to get back to Mom.

It'll be a good idea if you come and stay with us till your mom gets home.

Do you mean it?

Yeah.

Maybe you're in a room.

Andy always likes going new places.

Honey, Andy needs special care. I can't ask Helen with a new baby.

Of course not.

Charlie, he's not my son.

It's good to know you haven't changed, Daddy.

It's not like you and Mike are an item anymore anyway.

Besides, you'll still be here next year.

I told you it was okay.

Prom's not very important to me right now. My mom's real sick.

She's going to be coming home soon. You should see the dress my mother wants me

to wear.

She's not going to be able to work.

I picked out this black silk dress that is so hot.

Do you even hear me?

Your mom is going to be fine. She always is.

I'm sorry. I've got to go.

It's only me.

That was my last one.

Oh, thanks.

I heard about your mom.

Sorry.

Thanks.

I lost my mom.

I know what it feels like to be out there all alone.

Well, I can handle it.

Well, you know there's only one thing to do when life kicks you in the teeth.

What's that?

Party.

I'm serious.

Here. You don't have to be poor.

Are we doing you ladies?

Sure.

Lisa. It's all right. I know these guys.

How's your mom feeling?

How'd you know about my mother?

Word gets around.

Here, buy some flowers.

No, thanks.

No, take it. It's a gift.

Please, just leave me alone.

Whatever you say.

Lisa, let's go.

Let's dance.

Now I get paid for what my mom let my stepfather take for free.

I thought your mother was dead.

She might as well be.

You're a beautiful lady, Charlie.

How not?

See, that's one of the reasons why you're so beautiful, because you don't

you are.

You're not like a lot of these stuck -up women who judge people. That makes you

beautiful inside, too. That's good.

I have to go now.

Can I give you a ride home?

No, Lisa has the car.

Lisa's going to be staying tonight.

I'll take a cab.

You can do what you want, kid. I just thought maybe I'd help you save the

you know.

Why are you doing this?

Because I like you.

And maybe if I do nice things for you, you'll like me.

That's the only reason?

I was a boy scout once.

For some reason, I don't read that.

That's because you don't know me.

Thanks for the ride. My pleasure.

Here.

What is it?

It's a little chain that goes around your ankle.

What's it for?

For you.

Here.

No strings. Take it.

Why?

Because I think you're pretty.

And I want us to become friends.

Friends?

I'm a good friend to have.

Can I see you again?

You want to date me?

Absolutely.

Why? You ask a lot of questions.

Because I think that you're very special.

I have to go now.

Don't be mad.

It's okay.

You're worth waiting for.

Here.

I said no strings.

Fresh air after two weeks.

Doctor says I'm in remission.

What does that mean?

It means I'm getting better.

Well, how long before you're okay?

How's Andy?

Grandma.

Misses you. Well,

I want to get him something special for dinner.

So how about we stop at the market on the way home? Thank you.

That's right, Mr. Werner. The check I gave you today won't clear.

No, it won't clear tomorrow either. I have no money. I won't let my children

starve.

Yes, well, I've applied for welfare, but you know how the paperwork is.

If you put me in jail, of course, I'd make the papers.

Yes, I agree. That's publicity neither one of us wants. Look, why don't you

let me pay you back $5 a week? How about that?

Okay. That's very generous of you. Thank you, Mr. Werner. I appreciate it. Bye.

Ta -da! See, I told you, Mama would take care of everything.

Hurley, where are you going?

Out. Out where?

To Jennifer's house.

I wanted to invite some friends in for dinner. I'll need your help.

I'll be here.

Of course you will.

What is it?

Nothing.

Come to daddy, huh?

I want another drink.

No more drinks. You've had three. Be careful.

Are you counting?

I want another one. Sit down. No more drinks. Sit down.

Okay?

It's tough when you can't even trust your own mom, isn't it?

Tell me about it.

You know she's been lying to you.

Yeah, and I believe her.

Last time you're gonna make that mistake, isn't it?

Kyle, I wish this wasn't happening.

You know what I wish for?

What?

This.

You know,

there

is a way out.

Come on, what's going to happen to your little brother if your mom doesn't get

better?

I told you no before.

I thought you liked me.

I do, baby, I do. I'm just saying in six months, you'll have more money than you

can dream about.

But you're asking me to become a whore.

I'm asking you to party a little bit and make a ton of money, sweetheart, a ton

of money.

We'll do it together. We'll be together.

I can't.

All right.

That's fine.

I'll see you around, kid.

Don't.

Don't go.

What's the matter?

I think I've had too much to drink.

All right, I'll take you home. No, I don't want to go home.

I want to go to my place.

Take some more. I have all you need. Go ahead.

Good girl.

I... I couldn't do it. Sure you can.

I'd be scared.

I'll be right there.

I wouldn't let anything happen to you.

Honest.

Now, sooner or later, you're going to have to take control of your own life.

Your mommy's not going to be around forever, you know.

I'm not that kind of person.

What kind of person is that?

You're a guy.

You wouldn't understand.

I was 11 years old the last time my father got drunk and beat me.

He broke my jaw.

I didn't have the guts to kill him, so I ran away.

And that's when I started tricking.

I was 11 years old.

So, so don't tell me what kind of person it takes because I know.

Sorry.

Don't be.

See, that's when I took control of my own life.

Now, I don't need anybody.

I have to go now.

Charlie.

I never told that to anyone before.

You're very, very special to me, Charlie.

I trust you.

Now, you let me take care of you, okay?

I love you.

You know that, don't you?

How's Jennifer?

Fine.

You want to talk about anything?

I'm real tired.

Why are you lying to me?

I'm not lying. I'm just tired.

Where were you tonight?

I told you, at Jennifer's house.

I called Jennifer's house, and you didn't come home for dinner.

She tried to cover for you, but her mom got on the phone.

I can't believe you were checking up on me. I want to know where you were, and I

want to know now.

Why are you treating me like a criminal? I didn't do anything.

You've been drinking.

So? You're underage.

I'm going to sleep.

No, you're not.

Stop playing the concerned mother because I don't buy it anymore.

What are you talking about?

Good night.

You go up those steps and you're grounded for the month.

As long as you live in this house, young lady, when I want to talk, you'll talk.

Charlie?

Pull over right here.

I'll get out here.

He the man.

How do I look?

Hot.

Incredibly beautiful, baby.

This skirt is $300.

Don't worry about it.

Can I get one in red?

Matching shoes?

They're expensive, you know that?

But I'm worth it.

I could use some new clothes.

Another time.

You teach her good.

Soon she'll be paying the bills.

If you think it's a cop, what do you do?

First I make sure I have a witness.

Then I catch them, and then I ask them if they're a cop.

And if they don't tell you, they can't tell you.

Why?

I don't know. It's just one of the rules.

What do you say to a John?

Um, hey, babe, you want to party?

Smile. Be sexy.

You're not selling encyclopedias.

Let's get a drink first.

I can't do it like this. I've got to be in the mood.

Let's do these two.

I can't.

We're going to have to take us to a bar first.

Good evening, boys.

What's taking so long?

We'll be right out.

I don't want to do this.

We've already taken their money.

Give it back to them then.

Relax.

Take another hit.

These guys won't take long.

We're gonna have a good time.

Charlie?

It's me, Mama.

Where have you been?

Open the door.

Charlie.

I'm going to call a doctor.

I've called the hospital. I've called the police.

Where were you?

Mom, I'm all right. I just want to be by myself.

Listen, I have been worried sick about you. We all have.

Are you all right?

Fine.

I was with Mike.

His parents are out of town. We had a fight. We broke up. It's no big deal. No

big deal?

You've been gone all night and all day, and you come home throwing your guts up,

and it's no big deal?

Where'd you get these clothes?

At the mall.

How'd you get the money to pay for them? I worked overtime.

You're lying to me again.

Why can't you believe anything I say?

Because it doesn't make any sense.

I swear I'm telling you the truth.

Are you dealing drugs?

No.

Charlie, I can't help you if you won't let me.

Mama, I don't want to help.

What?

I can take care of myself.

How you doing?

I feel so dirty.

Little soap and water take care of everything.

I couldn't kiss him.

Don't worry.

A few more days and it won't bother you.

She's a teenager.

She disappears for days.

Comes home with all kinds of stories.

So what do you want me to do?

I want you to be a father and get involved in your daughter's life. I'm

in her life. If I would have been more involved in her life, you would have let

me. Don't lay that on me.

Why? Because it's true?

I didn't come here to talk about ancient history.

So it's the same as it always is. What do you want to do and talk about what

want to talk about?

You could have said something, John.

I tried. You don't hear.

Anyway, you can't argue with somebody who has so many adoring fans.

Will you speak with her?

What can I say to her?

She can't stand to be in the same room with me.

And whose fault is that?

Oh, mea culpa. Mea maxima culpa.

I'll call her for dinner next week.

I meant today.

I'll try.

Look at it. Now you're a real cowboy.

You're a real cowboy.

You sure are, partner.

So where's mom?

I was just in the room.

Would you get out of my room, please? There must be a couple of thousand

worth of clothes here. You have no right to go through my things. Where'd you

get them?

I told you. Don't waste your time telling me that you've been working

at the shoebox. I checked. You haven't been there in weeks.

What is this, Inquisition?

I got another job.

Where and doing what?

Cocktailing at Club Hollywood. This is what they give us to wear.

You're not old enough, Charlie. I have a fake ID.

You're going to take these back and you're quitting today.

No, I'm not. This is not up for discussion.

That's right. It's not.

See you around, Mama.

Baby, I get hot just thinking about you.

Can't put on my makeup.

Don't wait.

But we need the money.

Am I... Am I credited?

None of our friends has seen her.

You keep running around like this, you're going to kill yourself.

My daughter is gone. I'm not going to stay home in bed.

Where do we look?

Anywhere she might be.

You're tired.

Tomorrow's another day. If you want to go, I'll call a cab. In your condition.

How could she do this to us?

I'm beginning to wonder what we've done to her.

Hi, boys.

Joey's waiting for you. So let him wait. You know you're not supposed to be here

without him.

What are two beautiful women like you doing here without a date? Make us to

knock. I think we're leaving.

Not yet.

These aren't the kind of guys who pay for it. Oh, they're so cute.

Bye -bye.

Whoa, Charlotte.

You look incredible.

Hi,

Alex.

For you, Aunt Peggy, it's a boy named Mike.

It's about Charlie.

Oh, yeah. Bring it here.

Hey, Andy.

Hi. Hey, come here. Give me a hug.

Fired old mama.

How are you?

Hello, Mike. No, we couldn't find her.

What?

You don't know how glad I am to hear you say that.

Well, how is she?

The corner of Lincoln and Wayne after eight?

What's she doing there?

Mike?

I don't see her.

This is where the prostitutes work.

That doesn't mean anything, Mama.

I hope not.

Maybe Mike was wrong.

You want to go?

Not yet.

I'm getting out.

What is it?

I'm sorry. I was up all night.

Maybe I shouldn't have come here, but I didn't want to wake Helen and the baby

at home. What is it?

Charlie.

Charlie. What? What's happened to her?

She's been gone for a couple of days.

And then this old boyfriend of hers.

Well, he called telling me where to look for her.

Did you find her?

Well, talk to me.

Peggy?

She's a prostitute.

I saw her getting out of a man's car.

Good evening, Mr. Franco.

It's my birthday today. Can I leave early?

Maybe she has a new boyfriend.

She was kissing and fondling him. He's older than you.

Sure about this?

Uh -oh.

What do we do now?

I don't know.

Perhaps you should sit down, Mrs. Ryan.

I'm fine.

I'm a psychiatrist, not a neurologist, but it isn't difficult to see that

not a well woman.

Doctor, I'm as good as I can be right now.

My daughter is selling her body to

strangers, and I want to know why.

You're asking me to make a diagnosis without a patient.

I'm not going to sue you if you're wrong.

Help me.

Please.

I would be more comfortable if you would sit down.

How can I bring her back home?

You can't.

It seems to me that even though she won't admit it to herself, she's angry

you for getting sick in the first place.

And from what I can gather, she probably has great feelings of inadequacy.

Because she can't make everything right for you and her brother.

Are you saying that I'm responsible?

I'm saying that your daughter did not go out on the street without a reason.

But I love my daughter.

I'm sure you do. That's not the point.

Somewhere along the line, she didn't get the message.

Mrs.

Ryan, believe me, I wish there was something that I could do for your

Go out on the street and get her.

Arrest her.

Bring her home. We can get the judge to remand her to my custody.

Is she over 18?

Just. That wouldn't do any good. She's on her own.

We bust her, she pays a $50 fine. Within a couple of hours, she's back on the

street. Maybe after multiple offenses... Are you telling me that it is illegal

for my daughter to buy a drink, but it's okay for some pimp to degrade her and

sell her body?

That's right.

I want to see your superior.

He'll tell you the same thing.

There is no law that's going to make your daughter come home.

You sit there and tell me there is nothing I can do to save my daughter.

You can pray.

Oh, I'll do that.

And you can go to hell.

Mrs. Ryan.

My daughter does not belong with the animals.

Nobody's daughter does.

If I see her on the street, I'll try to keep an eye on her.

As long as you can get her home within the first six weeks, you've got a chance

of keeping her there. After that...

Who can I get to help?

Nobody's going to do anything for your daughter. I can't believe that. I've

a social worker for 11 years. With crack and coke, the situation is out of

control. My daughter's a child.

As long as they stay where they're supposed to, nobody gives a damn.

You want your daughter?

Throw a rope over her head and drag her home.

I'm your brother, Peggy.

I'm a middle -aged, overworked CPA. How the hell am I supposed to know how to

kidnap somebody?

We'll hire someone to lead her away.

Peggy. No, I've planned this all out. I've been working on it for a week. All

need is a few hundred dollars and a van.

Are you listening to yourself?

Look, we isolate her so nobody else gets involved. We stop lookouts.

Then we get a John to drive her down an alley and dump her out of the car. We

drive up in the van. Wait a minute. This is crazy.

Okay, say it works. We get her home.

How are you going to keep her here?

I bought hospital restraints. We'll tie her to her bed. You can't tie her up

forever.

We'll talk with her and we'll cry with her and maybe she'll forgive us.

Forgive us for what?

Oh, Mama. We expected so much of her. She's just a kid. She's just a baby.

She's out there because she's angry at us.

At me.

Oh, come on. You can't blame yourself.

Who else am I to blame, John? I'm her mother. You had Andy. You were sick.

Yes, I had a lot of great excuses.

burning issues, major causes. The world needed saving. I was the one to do it,

but I didn't save the world, did I?

I lost a daughter.

Hey, help me, please.

Amen.

Like hell you are.

It's out of the question.

Okay, John, forget for the moment that you're up for tenure at the university

and kidnapping Charlie will send your career down the toilet.

This could be dangerous for all of us, including your daughter. Anything could

happen.

John, let's be there for her this time.

I'll get the van.

What about your wife, your new baby?

Think about them, for God's sake.

You coming?

You're all insane.

Peggy, think how much you're asking.

Herb.

How much is your niece's life worth to you?

Holy Mary, Blessed Mother, I'm afraid.

Not for me, but for my family.

I've told them not to worry that I've thought and planned, and they believe

Don't let me fail.

Protect my family.

Let us bring Charlie home.

So, Holy Mother, I may have lost faith

in myself, but my faith in you is everlasting.

Looking for a good time?

Maybe. Well, I'm the best there is.

Anything you want, you got it. But there's two of us.

That's not a problem, honey.

I got lots of friends.

Hey, boys.

I love the party.

Friends cute, too.

This is Lisa.

You boys are mine, aren't you?

They can go wherever they want.

Hey, get over here.

Listen, bitch, these tricks are mine.

What in the hell do you think you're doing calling your friend over here? I'm

sorry, it won't happen again.

Better not.

Hey, wait!

I didn't think so.

I need someone to help me kidnap my daughter.

What was that?

I want you to help me kidnap my daughter.

$350 in it.

This is a joke, right?

No joke.

She's out on the streets. She's a prostitute.

I want you to lead her down an alley so her family can kidnap her.

Lady, I'm just a guy out looking for a good time.

We're going to take her home.

Look, I'm sorry.

You got the wrong guy.

She doesn't know you. She won't suspect anything. It'll be easy. Lady, I don't

know who you are, but I got a wife and two kids.

But there won't be any trouble for you.

No, really.

She's my daughter. She's going to die out there.

Look at me.

Do you believe that my daughter is on the street?

If you say so.

Well, can you think about how desperate I am?

Uh -huh.

Now, imagine that it was your daughter.

So he wants me to go to Bermuda with him. What'd you say?

I told him to talk to Joey.

You looking for me?

You, with the red jacket.

Hi, honey.

Get in.

For $50, anything special, we negotiate, and nothing happens to the cash that's

in my hand.

Fine by me.

What's your name, honey?

No name.

I like mystery men.

Make your next left. My place is just around the corner.

What's the matter, baby? Something wrong?

Nothing.

Turn left.

Turn around or I'm getting out. Don't. Look.

I'm not weird or anything. I just... I just want to pick up my truck. It's

around the corner.

Sorry, baby. I'm out of here. Stop the car.

Let's get his chills.

We love you, Charlie. I hate you. She saved your life. Nobody asked her to.

untie me. Charlie, I'm so sorry.

I don't give a damn what you are. I'm sorry that I got sick.

I'm sorry that I told you everything was going to be all right when it wasn't.

I thought that I was... I wanted to be there for you, but I didn't see. I

know. I thought that I knew.

Maybe you're right. You know, maybe...

I wanted to be more of a hero to my friends than I was a mother to you, but

please forgive me.

I love you so much.

You liar!

I will never lie to you again, Charlie. I promise you.

Please don't do this to yourself because you're angry at me.

Tell me, what can I do? How can I make it right?

I want you to get out of my face.

I like doing it with strangers, and you know what? I'm damn good at it.

I'll always love you, Charlie.

Oh, you make me want to puke.

We'll get through this. You disgusting cripple!

Get out of my room!

Shh, stop. Don't hurt yourself.

Get out of here!

We actually pulled it off.

She's like a different girl.

Oh, it's not her. It's the drugs.

We'll have somebody stay with her all the time now, and in a few days, we'll

have our Charlie back again. I hope so. I hate you all!

Thanks, honey.

Thanks. What are big brothers for?

I've got to go home and get some sleep. Uh -huh. I'll be back tomorrow.

Good night, Mama.

Night, dear.

Mama, better go get some sleep. Oh, I'm fine.

I will need you well rested if you're going to help me tomorrow.

Well, you make sure you get some rest, too. Uh -huh.

I'll stay on the couch if it's okay.

I'd like that.

I like being a whore!

Why is she still screaming?

She's hurt and she's angry.

She never cried when she was a baby.

Making up for it now, I guess.

Can you hear me, Mama? I hate you!

I hate you all!

We really do this to her?

She's our daughter. We helped.

We'll be married forever.

You wanted the divorce. You filed.

Come on.

What do you mean?

I'm sorry.

Maybe I did hurt you.

Lord knows I hurt her.

I can't go back and make it right for us, but maybe we can make it right for

her.

I'll get the sheets.

Morning, Charlie.

Let me loose, Daddy.

Some fresh squeezed juice, coffee, hot cakes.

I don't want any damn food.

I want out.

You hurt yourself.

Lots you care.

I care.

That's a joke.

Is that why you were never around?

I wanted to be around more.

We have a great time when we're together.

Remember? I'd always have to drop you off, leave you.

It was... Yeah.

You know what I mean?

I used to sit by the window waiting for you to come.

After a while, I convinced myself you were dead.

Why else wouldn't you be there?

I mean, you had to love me, right?

I was your daughter.

I tried, but... I'm not finished.

Then you'd show up with a doll and everything would be all right.

You know?

I guess that's when I started being a whore.

Here's your breakfast.

Enough experimenting, Mr.

Scientist. Now's the time to eat. All right. Good boy.

Shh. Darling.

Yes.

Peggy.

These men are from the police. They want to talk to you.

Oh, what about?

Detective Olsen, Detective Garcia.

Do you know a Charlene Ryle?

Yes, she's my daughter.

Do you know where she is?

I haven't seen her in days.

We received an anonymous call that she was kidnapped last night.

Kidnapped? The caller said that you and some other members of your family did it

and are hiding her against her will.

Oh, detective, somebody must be pulling your leg.

Oh, we were here all last night, weren't we, Mama?

All night.

Mind if we look around?

Only if you have a warrant.

We don't have to be adversaries.

We just have to make sure she's safe.

She is.

So you did take her.

I didn't say that.

Mrs. Ryan, believe me, it'll be easier all around if you cooperate.

Why don't you drop down to the station this afternoon? We'll take your

statement.

Is there around three?

All right.

Who in your family helped you?

It was my idea.

This is just a formality.

Technically, what you did was against the law.

But that's also the spirit of the law. Nothing's going to happen to them.

Then why do you have to know who they were?

For the paperwork.

I'm sorry.

I'm afraid that's not good enough.

Where is Charlene now?

We're on your side.

If more parents cared about their kids as much as you did, our jobs would be a

lot easier.

She's at home, locked in her room.

Where are you going?

Get some coffee. You want a cup?

No, thanks.

We're not quite finished.

Yes, we are. You lied to me. You're going for a search warrant. You

felony. If you're going to arrest me, arrest me. If not, get out of my way.

Alex.

I love you.

Thank you, darling. Come here, Alex.

We've been betrayed.

Mama. Get on the phone to all the TV stations. Tell them the police are about

break into our house.

The police are coming?

They're getting a warrant.

How's Charlie?

Still angry.

What'd you tell them?

Everything.

Alex, you think you could take Andy over to your house for the night? Sure.

Great.

When do you think they'll get here?

As soon as they can.

You don't have to stay. I'll stay.

What about Helen?

She'll understand.

All right, you two go around back. Now, we don't want to take any chances. We

don't know if they are armed.

Marge, you stick with me.

Prison someone against their will. Now let us in. There won't be any trouble.

I don't believe you.

You can trust me.

You're a liar.

You and whoever else is in there are in serious trouble.

Now open the damn door or I'll kick it in.

Should we call a SWAT team?

To arrest a disabled woman and a grandmother?

Do you have any guns?

Guns? You've been watching too much television.

You're going?

Not likely.

Well, fight or... Search the place. Anybody gets in the way, arrest

him. You have no right.

Lady, this gives me the right. Now put your butt in the chair.

Hey, you can't talk to her like that. Sit down. What the hell used to go on?

down. You know, if you're drinking, you can smell it on your breath.

Sit down, all of you. Now this isn't a damn game.

You're facing a serious lawsuit, all of you. What's your badge number?

You're facing five years in jail.

She was tied up in her bed.

She's on her way to hell. I know where her pimp is. Why don't you arrest him?

I wouldn't worry about arresting anybody else. You've got your own problems.

Charlie.

Charlie, please, don't go.

Honey, I'll do anything. Honey, please. I know you're angry. You're taking her

downtown for a statement. Once we get it, we're coming back for you. Yeah, and

where will she go after the statement?

Anywhere she wants. She'll go back to her pimp.

Irish curse on you and your children's children. She'll die out there. It's her

business. She's an adult. She's a baby.

Please. God, don't take her. For God's sake, don't take her.

Look, there's nothing I can do.

But I'll give you a piece of advice. Get yourself a good lawyer.

You're all going to need it.

Detective. Oh, she's cool. Detective, can you tell us what's going on, please?

Police investigation.

What kind?

No comment.

Can I reply, sir? I love you.

Charlie, we all love you.

Did you kidnap and forcibly restrain her?

Yes. Do you think you'll go to jail?

That's up to the police. It's a sick world when parents are sent to jail for

trying to save their children.

What I did may have been against the law of the state, but to do nothing would

be against God's law.

Why do you think she became a prostitute?

I know that she was depressed about my illness and very worried about our

our way.

Are you aware that in most of these cases there's been some kind of physical

sexual abuse in the home?

I never hit Charlie.

Why isn't your husband here?

We're divorced. He has another family. Did your divorce have anything to do

his relationship to Charlene?

No. Was there anything sexual in their relationship?

Oh, that's a disgusting question.

Charlie's father loves her in a very real and a very wholesome way. You've

divorced a long time.

Fourteen years.

Have you ever had any boyfriends?

Yes, I've had boyfriends.

Did they molest my daughter?

No.

Did I parade them in front of her in a lascivious manner?

No, I did not.

Then how did you account for your daughter becoming a hooker?

I don't know.

What do you think of the police's action?

I think it's criminal, and I think it's sickening.

They took my daughter from her home, and they put her out on the streets.

Now, is that justice? I know it's not moral.

What are you going to do now?

Find her.

I'm going down to the Tenderloin tonight at 8 and every night thereafter until

she comes home.

And I want to say to anyone who might like to help, please come and join me.

Charlie is not the only child out there being degraded and abused. There are

others, maybe yours.

Please help me.

Hey, Kevin.

I've just been on the phone with the DA about the Ryan case.

Yeah, I got the arrest warrant right here. Burn him.

What? We've received hundreds of calls in support of Mrs. Ryan. The DA does not

want to press charges.

Here, tell me something.

You will dump those papers, and then you and Trask will make yourselves

available to Mrs. Ryan in her search for her daughter.

Kevin.

How much more time do you want me to waste on this case?

It's an order.

It's five after eight and no one else is here.

I guess we better get started.

Are you serious about coming down here every night to try and find her? I am.

It'll take an army to search these streets. I'll do it alone if I have to.

But she doesn't want to come home. She will.

All right, we'll see you there, ma 'am.

Peggy.

Peggy. Hey, Peggy.

Mr. Ava.

We're here to help.

Thank you. We're with you, Peggy.

We're going to find her.

We'll get some more back here.

There you go.

Mr. Frankel, please.

Oh, I'm sorry.

Hi.

Thank you.

You're on TV with the mayor. You look great.

Oh. I look terrible.

I just want some coffee, please.

I don't think I've had more than a couple of hours sleep since this whole

started.

You and Charlie are becoming celebrities.

Tomorrow morning I'm going national on TV.

Tomorrow afternoon they're sending a reporter from the Times.

Big story.

John, you would be amazed at the number of children who are out there on the

streets. I have parents calling me night and day asking how I can find their

kids.

Sorry, I'm not laughing.

Always battling against windmills.

You ever think about after she comes home?

Of course.

Well, how's she gonna feel?

It's not gonna be easy for her, you know. The whole world knows she's been a

prostitute. How's she gonna make her life?

Well, she'll be embarrassed. She'll get over it.

Oh, will she?

She's not you.

My life's falling apart. I can't teach.

I'm sure they're not going to give me tenure.

Afraid to go to sleep, dreaming about her out there.

All these pictures running through my head, I'd want to smoke a cigarette.

John, right now I don't give a damn about your future, her future, or my

All I want to do is bring her home.

And you think that this is a national problem?

Yes, that's why I started MAP.

These pimps are raping and killing our children, and we're letting them do it.

We have to open our eyes, not look away.

I mean, these are our babies, our future.

And where do you think your daughter is now?

Somewhere on the street.

Here's a picture of my daughter. Her name is Charlie. If you see her, would

please call me at 555 -9897.

Thank you, Mrs. Ryan.

Everyone at KBOL wishes you good luck. Thank you, David.

And Charlie, if you're out there, come home.

Your mother loves you.

Everything Charlie?

I don't know anybody named Charlie.

I think you're lying.

Will you please leave me alone?

Where is she?

I swear I'd tell you if I knew.

I'll pay you to find her.

Lady, you are going to get me killed. Every time you come out on the streets,

go home with nothing, and this is what I get.

Will you please go away?

Come on, Mama.

Get the hell off my screen.

Have you seen my daughter?

I want you out of here now. Me, Sammy?

Or you are going to be in a world of hurt. This is public property, Alex. You

get your hands off of her. Back off!

Mama, she's not hurting me.

Just let her be now.

And you are breathing down my neck. And I don't like it. And my old man, he

don't like it either. You understand me? Do you understand me?

You should have seen her out there tonight at the zoo.

I'm sorry, babe.

Nobody is making a dime. Why didn't she mind her own business?

She's my mother.

She wants me back.

I love you so much.

I'm going to take a bath.

You know, she's costing people a lot of money.

Unless she doesn't stop, it's going to be trouble for everybody.

What's that supposed to mean? It means she's going to get hurt. That's what it

means. Well, you can't let them. How the hell am I supposed to? I can't stop

them. They're your friends.

This is not about friendship.

It's about money, young lady.

We're doing okay, aren't we, sweetheart?

We're doing great.

Right, we're doing great.

So you tell your mother that you want to stay with me, okay?

She won't listen. Make her listen for her own good, okay?

All right.

Well, you be a good girl.

Am I doing the right thing?

Now's a hell of a time to ask.

What if I'm the cause of something happening to her?

The only chance she has of ever coming back is if you bring her back.

You're doing the right thing.

This is it, folks.

Watch your step.

Come on.

This house is going to be good, this baby.

Smell the money.

I'm tired of running.

Don't worry. Nobody's going to bother you.

Let's get a cab. All right.

Yo!

What are we going to do?

Don't worry.

Everything's going to be okay.

Joey's going to take care of everything. That's my job, sweetheart.

We're running out of money.

Honey, trust me, please. We're going to be rich.

You look so beautiful right

now.

I'm so tired.

Okay, you rest.

Go to sleep.

I love you very, very much.

And I promise I'll never do anything to hurt you, okay?

Hey, babe, you want to party?

Not today, honey.

All right.

Hey, Charles.

Don't worry, I'm not a cop. I'm a reporter.

I've got nothing to say.

I followed you from your motel.

This is my third city in five days. Just give me five minutes.

You been looking for me?

Your big news.

Doesn't pay the bills.

We want to do a live broadcast of a conversation between you and your mom.

No thanks. I got nothing to say to her.

It'll be on national television.

You get her off your back forever.

I'll think about it.

It's ten minutes.

I don't want her to know where I am.

I'll be in touch.

I will set up tomorrow afternoon.

Okay. Mrs. Ryan, I wish I could tell you where she was.

Yes, is Mr.

Byron there, please?

Oh, well, this is the nurse at his son's school.

The boy has a slight fever and...

We need to send him home, but I can't reach Mr.

Byron. Can you tell me how I can get a hold of him?

816 -555 -2524. Thank you very much.

God bless.

Did you say the Crestview Motel?

Where are you located, please?

I think you're acting crazy.

I'm going, Mama.

She doesn't want to come home.

I have to do this.

Well, take somebody with you.

No, this is between Charlie and me, nobody else.

But you're not well.

The people she's with are dangerous.

She's my baby.

And you're mine.

I don't want to see you hurt anymore.

I love you, Mama.

It's time, isn't it?

Yes,

ma 'am.

Don't worry. I'll take good care of you boys.

I don't understand why we couldn't go to a motel, though.

Don't worry.

Nobody comes here on weekdays.

Besides, this way you can make some of the room money.

Well, not that I don't trust you fellows, but before anything happens, I

paid.

Sure, yeah.

Get her back.

This is all you got.

Shut up!

What's the matter? I thought whores were supposed to like this kind of thing.

Forget it, Ron.

I'll find him.

Sorry, I'm sorry.

Sweetie, maybe something's broken.

I'll be okay.

No, you should go to a doctor.

Tony, Tony, I'm scared.

Take you home?

She doesn't want to go home, Mama.

I wasn't talking to you, pimp.

You tell her, sweetheart. Tell her to leave us alone.

Mama.

She knows that I love her very much.

He doesn't love you, Charlie.

Yes, he does, Mama. He takes care of me.

Look at yourself.

Is this how he takes care of you? If it wasn't his fault, it was mine. I

shouldn't have cried.

Charlie, it's not your fault. It has never been your fault.

The truth is, he's lying to you just like I've always lied to you.

I told you that I'd take care of everything, that everything would be all

didn't I?

Well, I couldn't do it then and I can't now, but you can.

You're bright.

You're pretty.

I can't. I can't do it.

Charlie, he will send you back out where it can happen again and you might not

come back next time. He is using you as a meal ticket.

Please, you tell her that I love you, okay?

Come on.

Come on, let's get you dressed.

Charlie, we're supposed to get married.

Look at him, Charlie.

Look at him. He is a pimp.

He's a parasite.

He makes his living off your body.

You deserve better, baby.

I swear to you.

I promise you.

I won't send you out anymore, okay?

Oh, Charlie, please don't leave me.

I can't make it without you, baby.

Yep, these are definitely dancing shoes.

Wow, good dancing shoes.

You're a great dancer.

I got you home.

Me too.

The press is waiting.

I don't think I can face them.

It's not going to be easy. I'm not going to tell you it is.

You want me to try and make them go away?

I'm just... I'm so ashamed.

It's going to hurt for a long time.

But we'll talk and we'll get help.

It won't hurt forever.

But I was a whore.

So was Mary Magdalene.

Ms. Ryan, what do you plan?

Ms. Ryan, what are you trying to...