Boy With a Coin - A PLAYTIME kids ORIGINAL FILM BY MITCHELL ROYEL
"Boy With a Coin" follows Mitchell Royel, a light-skinned African American teenager attending Calabasas High on a district permit, and his best friend Stephan Busi, a wealthy Italian-American student. As Mitchell faces a challenge to his school permit from parents questioning diversity initiatives, the story explores themes of identity, privilege, and friendship. The boys' morning runs, set to Iron & Wine's "Boy With a Coin," serve as a metaphor for their life choices. Mitchell, raised by a single mother, navigates academic pressures and racial tensions, while Stephan struggles with substance use despite his privileged background. The plot culminates in a tense school board meeting where Mitchell must defend his place in the community, supported by Stephan and unexpected allies. Through their experiences, the story examines social inequalities, the value of diversity, and the power of friendship to bridge societal divides in the affluent setting of Calabasas, California.
FADE IN:
EXT. CALABASAS, CALIFORNIA - DAWN
The sun rises over the Santa Monica Mountains, casting a golden glow on the upscale neighborhoods of Calabasas. Modern homes and luxury condos nestle among lush greenery and rolling hills.
SUPER: “Calabasas, California - January 1st”
We focus on two contrasting residences: a modest single-story house and a sleek, modern luxury condo complex.
INT. MITCHELL’S BEDROOM - DAWN
MITCHELL ROYEL, 17, a light-skinned African American teenager with an athletic build, stirs in his bed. His room is small but neat, adorned with posters of civil rights leaders and contemporary hip-hop artists. A worn copy of “The Autobiography of Malcolm X” sits on his nightstand.
Mitchell’s eyes flutter open. He glances at his phone: 5:45 AM. A notification reminds him of today’s school board meeting. His expression tightens with worry before he pushes it aside and gets out of bed.
INT. MITCHELL’S KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
ANGELA ROYEL, 40, Mitchell’s single mother, is already up, preparing breakfast. The kitchen is small but immaculately clean, with a few unpaid bills visible on the counter.
ANGELA
(smiling tiredly)
Happy New Year, baby. Early start as usual?
MITCHELL
(kissing her cheek)
Happy New Year, Mom. Yeah, meeting Stephan for our run. You okay? You look tired.
ANGELA
(waving him off)
I’m fine. Just picked up an extra shift at the hospital. Don’t forget about the meeting later.
MITCHELL
(nodding solemnly)
I won’t. We’ll get through this, Mom. I promise.
He grabs an apple from the fruit bowl and heads out the back door.
EXT. MITCHELL’S BACKYARD - CONTINUOUS
Mitchell stretches, his breath visible in the crisp morning air. He looks over at the fence separating his modest yard from the luxury condo complex next door.
Suddenly, STEPHAN BUSI, 17, an Italian-American teenager with olive skin and perfectly styled hair, vaults over the fence with practiced ease. Despite the early hour, he looks impeccably put together in designer running gear.
STEPHAN
(grinning)
Happy New Year, man! Ready to chase that coin?
MITCHELL
(laughing)
Born ready. Let’s do this!
As they take off running, Mitchell pulls out his phone and starts playing “Boy With a Coin” by Iron & Wine. The haunting melody fills the air as they run.
MONTAGE - MITCHELL AND STEPHAN’S MORNING RUN
– They jog through the quiet streets of Calabasas, the contrast between the modest homes and luxury mansions stark in the early morning light.
– They pass a group of landscapers, all Latino, already at work on a sprawling estate. Mitchell nods respectfully; Stephan barely notices them.
– They reach a hidden trail leading to a secluded river, their private sanctuary away from the pressures of their daily lives.
– As they run, coins occasionally appear on their path - pennies, nickels, dimes. Mitchell always stops to pick them up, while Stephan runs past.
END MONTAGE
EXT. RIVERBANK - MORNING
Mitchell and Stephan sit side by side on large rocks by the river, catching their breath. The song “Boy With a Coin” continues to play softly from Mitchell’s phone.
STEPHAN
(pulling out a small bag of marijuana)
Want a hit? Take the edge off before the big meeting?
MITCHELL
(shaking his head)
Nah, man. You know I can’t risk it. One failed drug test and I’m out.
STEPHAN
(shrugging and lighting up)
Your loss. More for me.
MITCHELL
(concerned)
Steph, don’t you think you should ease up? With the weed, the Xanax… it’s not good for you, man.
STEPHAN
(defensive)
What are you, my mom? It helps me deal, okay? Not all of us can be perfect like you.
An uncomfortable silence falls between them. Mitchell picks up a coin from the ground, flipping it thoughtfully.
MITCHELL
You ever really listen to the lyrics of this song?
STEPHAN
(exhaling smoke)
Not really. It’s just a chill tune.
MITCHELL
It’s about choices, man. The boy with the coin… he’s got the power to make a decision, to change his fate. But he’s also trapped by circumstances, by expectations.
STEPHAN
(rolling his eyes)
Deep, bro. Real deep.
MITCHELL
(ignoring the sarcasm)
I feel like that sometimes. Like I’ve got this… this coin, this chance. But I’m always one wrong move away from losing it all.
STEPHAN
(softening)
Is this about the school board meeting?
MITCHELL
(nodding)
They’re questioning my permit, Steph. Some parents are complaining about “out-of-district students taking spots from deserving local kids.”
STEPHAN
(angry)
That’s bullshit! You’ve been here for years!
MITCHELL
(bitter)
Yeah, well, apparently being here isn’t enough. I’ve got to be the right kind of here.
STEPHAN
(determined)
We’ll fight this, Mitch. My dad knows people on the board. He can-
MITCHELL
(interrupting)
No. I appreciate it, but… I need to do this on my own terms. Prove I belong here because of who I am, not who I know.
Stephan nods, respecting his friend’s decision even if he doesn’t fully understand it.
STEPHAN
Well, whatever happens, I’ve got your back. You know that, right?
MITCHELL
(smiling)
I know. Thanks, man.
They bump fists, the gesture bridging the gap between their worlds.
INT. CALABASAS HIGH SCHOOL - HALLWAY - LATER THAT DAY
Mitchell and Stephan walk down the crowded hallway. The contrast between them is stark - Mitchell in simple, well-worn clothes, Stephan in designer labels. Yet they move as a unit, years of friendship evident in their easy rapport.
SOPHIA MARTINEZ, 17, a pretty Latina girl from a wealthy family, approaches them.
SOPHIA
Hey guys! Happy New Year!
STEPHAN
(smoothly)
Happy New Year, Soph. Party at my place this weekend. You in?
SOPHIA
(excited)
Definitely! Mitchell, you coming too, right?
MITCHELL
(hesitant)
I… I’m not sure. I’ve got a lot going on.
STEPHAN
(slinging an arm around Mitchell)
Come on, man. Live a little! It’ll be epic.
Before Mitchell can respond, PRINCIPAL HARRIS, 50s, a stern-looking man with graying hair, approaches.
PRINCIPAL HARRIS
Mr. Royel, a word please?
Mitchell exchanges a worried glance with Stephan before following the principal.
INT. PRINCIPAL’S OFFICE - MOMENTS LATER
Mitchell sits across from Principal Harris, tension evident in his posture.
PRINCIPAL HARRIS
Mitchell, I wanted to speak with you before the board meeting this afternoon. The situation… it’s complicated.
MITCHELL
(nodding)
I understand, sir. It’s about my permit, right?
PRINCIPAL HARRIS
(sighing)
Yes, but it’s more than that. There’s been pushback from certain… influential parents. They’re questioning our diversity initiatives, arguing that they’re unfair to local students.
MITCHELL
(angry)
Unfair? I’ve worked my ass off to be here! I’m on the honor roll, I volunteer-
PRINCIPAL HARRIS
(interrupting)
I know, Mitchell. Your record speaks for itself. But politics… well, they can be complicated.
MITCHELL
(bitter)
Complicated. Right.
PRINCIPAL HARRIS
(leaning forward)
I want you to know that I’m on your side here. You’re a credit to this school. But the board meeting might get… heated. I need you to be prepared.
MITCHELL
(nodding)
I understand. Thank you for the heads up, sir.
As Mitchell stands to leave, Principal Harris speaks again.
PRINCIPAL HARRIS
And Mitchell? Remember, whatever happens in that meeting… it’s not a reflection on you or your worth as a student.
Mitchell nods silently and exits the office, his mind racing.
INT. CALABASAS HIGH SCHOOL - CLASSROOM - LATER
Mitchell sits in his AP American History class, only half-listening as MS. RODRIGUEZ, 30s, discusses the civil rights movement. His mind is on the upcoming meeting.
MS. RODRIGUEZ
…and so, the fight for equality continues to this day. Mitchell, you’ve always had insightful comments on this topic. Would you like to share your thoughts?
MITCHELL
(startled from his thoughts)
I… I think it’s important to remember that progress isn’t always linear. Sometimes we take steps forward, and sometimes we slide back. The key is to keep pushing, to keep fighting for what’s right.
MS. RODRIGUEZ
(nodding)
Excellent point. And how do you think this relates to our current political climate?
MITCHELL
(hesitant)
I think… I think we’re at a crossroads. There are those who want to move forward, to embrace diversity and equality. And there are those who… who want to go back to a time when things were simpler. At least for some people.
The class murmurs, some nodding in agreement, others shifting uncomfortably.
MS. RODRIGUEZ
A thoughtful observation, Mitchell. Now, let’s delve into the specifics of the Voting Rights Act of 1965…
As the lesson continues, Mitchell’s mind wanders to the upcoming board meeting, the weight of his uncertain future heavy on his shoulders.
INT. CALABASAS HIGH SCHOOL - CAFETERIA - LUNCHTIME
Mitchell sits at a table with Stephan and their group of friends. The cafeteria buzzes with lunchtime chatter, but there’s a tension at their table.
SOPHIA
(concerned)
Is everything okay, Mitchell? You seem distracted.
MITCHELL
(forcing a smile)
Yeah, just… big meeting after school. No big deal.
STEPHAN
(unable to contain himself)
It is a big deal! The school board is trying to revoke Mitchell’s permit to attend Calabasas High.
The table falls silent, shock evident on everyone’s faces.
FRIEND #1
What? Why would they do that?
MITCHELL
(sighing)
It’s complicated. Apparently, some parents are complaining about out-of-district students taking spots from local kids.
SOPHIA
(frowning)
But you’ve been here for years! You’re part of our community!
MITCHELL
(bitter)
Yeah, well, apparently not everyone sees it that way.
STEPHAN
(determined)
We’re not going to let this happen. We need to show up at that meeting and support Mitchell.
The friends nod in agreement, already starting to plan their strategy. As they talk, Mitchell notices a group of students at a nearby table watching them and whispering. He catches fragments of their conversation - “affirmative action,” “taking our spots,” “not fair.”
Mitchell’s jaw tightens, but he says nothing, turning back to his friends.
EXT. CALABASAS HIGH SCHOOL - PARKING LOT - AFTERNOON
Students stream out of the school, heading home for the day. Mitchell stands by his beat-up car, a stark contrast to the luxury vehicles surrounding it.
Stephan approaches, keys to his brand-new sports car in hand.
STEPHAN
Ready for this?
MITCHELL
(taking a deep breath)
As I’ll ever be.
STEPHAN
(hesitating)
Listen, man. My offer still stands. My dad-
MITCHELL
(interrupting)
I appreciate it, Steph. I do. But I need to do this on my own terms.
STEPHAN
(nodding)
I get it. Just… let me be there, okay? For support.
Mitchell smiles gratefully at his friend. As they’re about to get into their respective cars, a group of students walks by, led by BRAD THOMPSON, 18, the son of a prominent local businessman.
BRAD
(loudly)
Better enjoy it while you can, Royel. Your free ride’s about to end.
Mitchell tenses, but Stephan steps forward, getting in Brad’s face.
STEPHAN
Back off, Thompson. You don’t know what you’re talking about.
BRAD
(sneering)
Oh, I know plenty. My dad’s on the board. It’s time we start looking out for our own, you know?
MITCHELL
(pulling Stephan back)
Let it go, man. He’s not worth it.
As Brad and his friends walk away laughing, Mitchell and Stephan exchange a look. The stakes of the upcoming meeting suddenly feel very real.
INT. SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICE - MEETING ROOM - LATE AFTERNOON
The room is packed with parents, students, and community members. At the front, the SCHOOL BOARD members sit behind a long table, looking serious.
Mitchell sits in the front row with his mother, Angela. Stephan and his father, MARCO BUSI, a well-dressed businessman, sit beside them. The contrast between the two families is stark.
BOARD PRESIDENT
(calling the meeting to order)
Good evening, everyone. We’re here to discuss the district’s policies regarding out-of-district student permits…
As the meeting progresses, various parents stand up to voice their opinions. Some are supportive of diversity initiatives, while others argue for stricter boundaries.
ANGRY PARENT
Why should our tax dollars go to educating students who don’t even live here? It’s not fair to our kids!
Mitchell tenses, feeling the weight of the stares directed his way. Stephan places a supportive hand on his shoulder.
Finally, Angela stands to speak.
ANGELA ROYEL
My son has been a student at Calabasas High for three years. He’s on the honor roll, he volunteers in the community, and he’s planning to apply to top universities. How does removing him from this school serve anyone?
The room buzzes with murmurs. Mitchell takes a deep breath and stands.
MITCHELL
If I may speak…
The Board President nods, and Mitchell addresses the room.
MITCHELL (CONT’D)
I understand the concerns about resources and fairness. But I’m not just a statistic or a diversity quota. I’m a person, a student who has worked hard to earn my place here. I love this school and this community. It’s my home.
He pauses, gathering his thoughts.
MITCHELL (CONT’D)
I know I might look different from some of you. My family might not live in the fanciest house in Calabasas. But we’re part of this community. We contribute. We care. Isn’t that what really matters?
The room falls silent, Mitchell’s words hanging in the air. Stephan stands up next to his friend.
STEPHAN
Mitchell is one of the best people I know. He makes our school better, our community better. If we start pushing people out because they don’t fit some narrow definition of who belongs here, we all lose.
More students begin to stand, voicing their support for Mitchell. The Board members exchange glances, clearly moved by the outpouring of support.
Suddenly, MARCO BUSI stands up.
MARCO BUSI
If I may, I’d like to speak.
The room falls silent, all eyes on the influential businessman.
MARCO BUSI (CONT’D)
I’ve lived in Calabasas for over 20 years. I’ve seen this community grow and change. And you know what? That change has made us stronger. Mitchell Royel and students like him… they’re not taking anything from us. They’re adding to our community. They’re the future of this country.
He turns to look directly at Mitchell.
MARCO BUSI (CONT’D)
Young man, you belong here. Not because of where you live or the color of your skin, but because of your character, your hard work, and your commitment to this community. That’s what America is all about.
The room erupts in applause. Mitchell, overwhelmed, nods gratefully at Marco.
BOARD PRESIDENT
(after a moment)
Thank you all for your input. This is clearly a complex issue that requires further discussion. For now, all current permits will remain in place while we review our policies.
The tension in the room eases. Angela hugs Mitchell, tears in her eyes.
EXT. SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICE - EVENING
As people file out of the meeting, Mitchell and Stephan stand to the side, processing what just happened.
STEPHAN
You did it, man. You stood up and made them listen.
MITCHELL
(shaking his head)
We did it. I couldn’t have done this without you, Steph. Or your dad.
STEPHAN
(grinning)
What are best friends for?
They bump fists, their bond stronger than ever. As they walk towards their families, Mitchell pulls out a coin from his pocket - the same one he picked up during their morning run.
MITCHELL
(flipping the coin)
You know, maybe we’re all boys with coins. We all have choices to make, paths to choose.
STEPHAN
(nodding)
Yeah, but it’s not just about the coin. It’s about what you do with it.
MITCHELL
(smiling)
Exactly. And right now, I choose to celebrate. Race you to the river tomorrow morning?
STEPHAN
(laughing)
You’re on. But this time, I’m picking up those coins too.
As they walk towards their families, the sun sets over Calabasas, painting the sky in brilliant hues of orange and pink. It’s a new year, full of challenges, but also full of hope. The haunting melody of “Boy With a Coin” seems to linger in the air, a reminder of the choices that lie ahead and the power of friendship to overcome any obstacle.
FADE TO BLACK.
THE END