WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:01.740 align:middle line:90% 00:00:01.740 --> 00:00:07.630 align:middle line:84% I'm just going to read a story called "Intervention." 00:00:07.630 --> 00:00:08.395 align:middle line:90% Recent story. 00:00:08.395 --> 00:00:13.860 align:middle line:90% 00:00:13.860 --> 00:00:18.320 align:middle line:84% The phone's ring caught him as he turned off the shower. 00:00:18.320 --> 00:00:19.290 align:middle line:90% "Kramer," she said. 00:00:19.290 --> 00:00:20.240 align:middle line:90% "You sound breathless. 00:00:20.240 --> 00:00:23.170 align:middle line:90% Am I getting you at a bad time?" 00:00:23.170 --> 00:00:25.300 align:middle line:84% "I won't say it's bad, but I'm standing naked 00:00:25.300 --> 00:00:26.920 align:middle line:90% in a puddle of water. 00:00:26.920 --> 00:00:31.060 align:middle line:84% If I get electrocuted, I hope this was important." 00:00:31.060 --> 00:00:32.650 align:middle line:90% She laughed disgusted. 00:00:32.650 --> 00:00:35.110 align:middle line:84% "You and Frank are just the same." 00:00:35.110 --> 00:00:38.830 align:middle line:84% Kramer decided not to make his case and went for a towel. 00:00:38.830 --> 00:00:41.410 align:middle line:84% When he returned, Karen asked, "Have you 00:00:41.410 --> 00:00:45.080 align:middle line:90% spoken with Frank lately?" 00:00:45.080 --> 00:00:46.580 align:middle line:84% "It's been maybe a couple of months. 00:00:46.580 --> 00:00:47.870 align:middle line:90% Why?" 00:00:47.870 --> 00:00:50.450 align:middle line:84% "You know, he moved back in six weeks ago." 00:00:50.450 --> 00:00:52.810 align:middle line:90% "He didn't tell me." 00:00:52.810 --> 00:00:54.420 align:middle line:90% "No idea what's going on?" 00:00:54.420 --> 00:00:55.870 align:middle line:90% Karen sounded suspicious. 00:00:55.870 --> 00:00:58.390 align:middle line:84% "Can I count on you not to tell him I phoned? 00:00:58.390 --> 00:01:01.330 align:middle line:84% I'll explain, but before I say another word, promise me. 00:01:01.330 --> 00:01:02.830 align:middle line:90% Steve?" 00:01:02.830 --> 00:01:03.730 align:middle line:90% "I guess so, sure. 00:01:03.730 --> 00:01:06.070 align:middle line:90% What's happening?" 00:01:06.070 --> 00:01:08.500 align:middle line:84% "He started again, and it's not just booze now. 00:01:08.500 --> 00:01:10.270 align:middle line:90% He's doing a lot of coke. 00:01:10.270 --> 00:01:13.030 align:middle line:84% In a way, this call has nothing to do with our marriage 00:01:13.030 --> 00:01:15.040 align:middle line:90% or what went on last spring. 00:01:15.040 --> 00:01:16.960 align:middle line:84% I know, Steve, you and I haven't always 00:01:16.960 --> 00:01:21.790 align:middle line:84% had the best relationship, and that you take Frank's side." 00:01:21.790 --> 00:01:22.720 align:middle line:90% "I don't." 00:01:22.720 --> 00:01:25.090 align:middle line:84% "Kramer, you don't have to bullshit me now. 00:01:25.090 --> 00:01:25.690 align:middle line:90% I know. 00:01:25.690 --> 00:01:27.340 align:middle line:90% I even understand. 00:01:27.340 --> 00:01:31.600 align:middle line:84% He fools everyone, even his best friends. 00:01:31.600 --> 00:01:33.790 align:middle line:84% He only lets them see what he wants." 00:01:33.790 --> 00:01:36.955 align:middle line:84% Kramer wrapped a towel around his waist. 00:01:36.955 --> 00:01:39.330 align:middle line:84% He could never put his finger on what it was about Karen, 00:01:39.330 --> 00:01:43.020 align:middle line:84% but he could feel it now in his irritation. 00:01:43.020 --> 00:01:45.360 align:middle line:84% "Frank has a way of leaving things out, 00:01:45.360 --> 00:01:47.400 align:middle line:84% all of the macho stories, the strokes 00:01:47.400 --> 00:01:49.140 align:middle line:90% he gets for being so funny. 00:01:49.140 --> 00:01:51.090 align:middle line:84% He doesn't tell you how scared he is, 00:01:51.090 --> 00:01:53.220 align:middle line:84% and Frank can be very convincing. 00:01:53.220 --> 00:01:58.010 align:middle line:84% It's part him, part the alcoholic personality." 00:01:58.010 --> 00:02:00.140 align:middle line:84% Since Karen had started going to Al-Anon, 00:02:00.140 --> 00:02:03.345 align:middle line:84% she made these kinds of assertions with authority. 00:02:03.345 --> 00:02:04.970 align:middle line:84% "I just want you to know I'm not asking 00:02:04.970 --> 00:02:08.060 align:middle line:90% you to take anyone's part here. 00:02:08.060 --> 00:02:11.540 align:middle line:84% I'm making this call for Frank's sake and Frank's alone." 00:02:11.540 --> 00:02:13.100 align:middle line:90% Her voice was high, strained. 00:02:13.100 --> 00:02:14.540 align:middle line:90% "He's totally out of control. 00:02:14.540 --> 00:02:16.160 align:middle line:90% It's been going on for weeks. 00:02:16.160 --> 00:02:17.420 align:middle line:90% He's out half the night. 00:02:17.420 --> 00:02:21.170 align:middle line:84% He says he sleeps in his office, comes home shaky and paranoid. 00:02:21.170 --> 00:02:24.000 align:middle line:90% His business is going to hell. 00:02:24.000 --> 00:02:26.420 align:middle line:90% Something's got to be done." 00:02:26.420 --> 00:02:28.940 align:middle line:84% Kramer carefully dried his shoulders, wiped the phone, 00:02:28.940 --> 00:02:31.550 align:middle line:84% and pressed the receiver between his shoulder and ear. 00:02:31.550 --> 00:02:34.040 align:middle line:84% Karen said, "I know how this must sound. 00:02:34.040 --> 00:02:38.060 align:middle line:84% You're thinking I'm hysterical or it's just another quarrel. 00:02:38.060 --> 00:02:40.710 align:middle line:84% But if you could see him, Kramer." 00:02:40.710 --> 00:02:41.580 align:middle line:90% Kramer waited. 00:02:41.580 --> 00:02:44.730 align:middle line:84% He had the feeling she was going to ask him to come up there. 00:02:44.730 --> 00:02:46.560 align:middle line:84% Late last winter, Frank had called. 00:02:46.560 --> 00:02:49.260 align:middle line:84% And after a rambling oblique conversation, 00:02:49.260 --> 00:02:51.690 align:middle line:84% asked Kramer if he could fly in for a few days. 00:02:51.690 --> 00:02:54.420 align:middle line:90% Things had gotten weird. 00:02:54.420 --> 00:02:56.100 align:middle line:84% Frank couldn't explain on the phone. 00:02:56.100 --> 00:02:58.530 align:middle line:84% Having failed his bar exam the first time, 00:02:58.530 --> 00:03:00.750 align:middle line:84% Frank had become a private investigator 00:03:00.750 --> 00:03:03.780 align:middle line:84% until he could save enough money to take the bar again. 00:03:03.780 --> 00:03:07.940 align:middle line:84% After three years, he no longer trusted phones. 00:03:07.940 --> 00:03:10.820 align:middle line:84% Kramer canceled his appointments and took the morning flight, 00:03:10.820 --> 00:03:12.860 align:middle line:84% Phoenix to San Francisco, where he'd spent 00:03:12.860 --> 00:03:15.650 align:middle line:90% four days listening to Frank. 00:03:15.650 --> 00:03:19.010 align:middle line:84% In a combination of monologues, laconic asides, jokes, 00:03:19.010 --> 00:03:21.140 align:middle line:84% and earnest conversation, Frank made a kind 00:03:21.140 --> 00:03:26.260 align:middle line:84% of ongoing confession to Kramer about his various girlfriends, 00:03:26.260 --> 00:03:28.540 align:middle line:84% one night stands, problems with Karen, 00:03:28.540 --> 00:03:32.080 align:middle line:84% sleazy clients, and lawyers who owed him money. 00:03:32.080 --> 00:03:37.000 align:middle line:84% He also kept talking about a lot of money he had just lost. 00:03:37.000 --> 00:03:41.200 align:middle line:84% When Kramer asked him how much, all Frank said was, a lot. 00:03:41.200 --> 00:03:43.390 align:middle line:84% After they'd gone around that bush a few times, 00:03:43.390 --> 00:03:46.570 align:middle line:84% Frank finally said, almost $200,000. 00:03:46.570 --> 00:03:48.790 align:middle line:84% Frank wouldn't say exactly how he'd lost the money, 00:03:48.790 --> 00:03:51.860 align:middle line:90% but kept dropping hints. 00:03:51.860 --> 00:03:54.830 align:middle line:84% And finally, Kramer got the idea it involved something illegal. 00:03:54.830 --> 00:03:57.140 align:middle line:84% Frank said there was an investigation in progress, 00:03:57.140 --> 00:03:59.460 align:middle line:84% but he didn't think it could lead to him. 00:03:59.460 --> 00:04:01.700 align:middle line:84% "Hey, man, I had no real part on it, Kramer. 00:04:01.700 --> 00:04:03.350 align:middle line:90% I left money with a few players. 00:04:03.350 --> 00:04:04.700 align:middle line:90% I started with 10 grand. 00:04:04.700 --> 00:04:07.910 align:middle line:84% They ran my share up to $200,000. 00:04:07.910 --> 00:04:09.500 align:middle line:84% I thought I'd get out, but my guys 00:04:09.500 --> 00:04:11.840 align:middle line:84% got nailed before I found the door. 00:04:11.840 --> 00:04:13.760 align:middle line:84% I was getting ready to live on the scratch 00:04:13.760 --> 00:04:16.220 align:middle line:84% while I studied full time for the bar." 00:04:16.220 --> 00:04:20.709 align:middle line:84% In the end, Frank said to Kramer, "Whatever you do, 00:04:20.709 --> 00:04:22.480 align:middle line:84% don't say anything about this to anyone. 00:04:22.480 --> 00:04:24.460 align:middle line:90% Loose lips sink ships." 00:04:24.460 --> 00:04:26.260 align:middle line:90% That had been last winter. 00:04:26.260 --> 00:04:31.030 align:middle line:84% Karen said, "I know you're one of his best friends 00:04:31.030 --> 00:04:35.470 align:middle line:84% and he respects you because you stopped drinking 10 years ago. 00:04:35.470 --> 00:04:37.780 align:middle line:84% But to tell you how distorted his thinking can get, 00:04:37.780 --> 00:04:40.300 align:middle line:84% there are times he says that anyone who can stop drinking 00:04:40.300 --> 00:04:45.960 align:middle line:84% overnight and on his own must be cold and can't be trusted. 00:04:45.960 --> 00:04:49.980 align:middle line:84% That's one of his big problems, he doesn't trust. 00:04:49.980 --> 00:04:51.030 align:middle line:90% Or know how to trust. 00:04:51.030 --> 00:04:53.100 align:middle line:84% It's always trust and you get fucked. 00:04:53.100 --> 00:04:55.650 align:middle line:84% He's always been secretive, and being an investigator 00:04:55.650 --> 00:04:56.910 align:middle line:90% is just played on that. 00:04:56.910 --> 00:04:58.560 align:middle line:84% His world now is dealing with people 00:04:58.560 --> 00:05:02.190 align:middle line:84% who are trying to con him and giving them one better. 00:05:02.190 --> 00:05:04.260 align:middle line:84% But the important thing here, Kramer, 00:05:04.260 --> 00:05:06.510 align:middle line:84% is you did call his bluff four years ago. 00:05:06.510 --> 00:05:09.240 align:middle line:84% Somehow got through to him and took him to AA, 00:05:09.240 --> 00:05:12.870 align:middle line:84% and he thought enough of you to go." 00:05:12.870 --> 00:05:15.270 align:middle line:84% "Have you tried getting him to AA?" 00:05:15.270 --> 00:05:15.930 align:middle line:90% "Of course. 00:05:15.930 --> 00:05:17.640 align:middle line:84% I'm the last person he'd go with. 00:05:17.640 --> 00:05:21.630 align:middle line:84% Anyway, it's way past AA, Kramer." 00:05:21.630 --> 00:05:22.950 align:middle line:90% "He won't see a shrink?" 00:05:22.950 --> 00:05:24.030 align:middle line:90% "No." 00:05:24.030 --> 00:05:26.680 align:middle line:84% Kramer dried his legs and glanced at the clock. 00:05:26.680 --> 00:05:31.250 align:middle line:84% He had a meeting in half an hour, and he was already late. 00:05:31.250 --> 00:05:32.660 align:middle line:90% "Do you know what set him off?" 00:05:32.660 --> 00:05:33.500 align:middle line:90% "No idea. 00:05:33.500 --> 00:05:34.610 align:middle line:90% Could be a million things. 00:05:34.610 --> 00:05:36.410 align:middle line:84% You've worked with him, you know his life. 00:05:36.410 --> 00:05:38.330 align:middle line:84% Lawyers run him hard, he's out all day 00:05:38.330 --> 00:05:40.655 align:middle line:84% and night, he does their legwork and makes their cases. 00:05:40.655 --> 00:05:43.190 align:middle line:90% 00:05:43.190 --> 00:05:45.290 align:middle line:84% They make the money, take forever to pay, 00:05:45.290 --> 00:05:46.790 align:middle line:90% and rarely thank him. 00:05:46.790 --> 00:05:51.590 align:middle line:84% Lawyers in the Public Defender's Office owe him 20 grand. 00:05:51.590 --> 00:05:53.270 align:middle line:84% Meanwhile, he can't pay his bills. 00:05:53.270 --> 00:05:54.050 align:middle line:90% He's angry. 00:05:54.050 --> 00:05:56.450 align:middle line:90% We have problems, as you know. 00:05:56.450 --> 00:05:58.610 align:middle line:84% The bar exam hangs over his head, 00:05:58.610 --> 00:06:01.190 align:middle line:84% and I sense there's something big he hasn't told me. 00:06:01.190 --> 00:06:04.730 align:middle line:84% I mean, beside all the other little things 00:06:04.730 --> 00:06:06.970 align:middle line:90% he never tells me." 00:06:06.970 --> 00:06:09.070 align:middle line:84% Again, Kramer thought of the lost money. 00:06:09.070 --> 00:06:10.870 align:middle line:84% But whatever was wrong, Kramer didn't 00:06:10.870 --> 00:06:13.920 align:middle line:90% think it was any one thing. 00:06:13.920 --> 00:06:15.840 align:middle line:90% He sat down on a kitchen chair. 00:06:15.840 --> 00:06:18.660 align:middle line:84% "OK, Karen, Frank is over the line 00:06:18.660 --> 00:06:20.700 align:middle line:84% and won't go to AA or see a shrink. 00:06:20.700 --> 00:06:23.750 align:middle line:90% What do you want to do?" 00:06:23.750 --> 00:06:27.510 align:middle line:84% "I've been talking to people at Al-Anon, friends. 00:06:27.510 --> 00:06:29.610 align:middle line:84% Kramer, I really believe the only thing left to do 00:06:29.610 --> 00:06:31.740 align:middle line:90% is call an intervention." 00:06:31.740 --> 00:06:33.168 align:middle line:90% Kramer was silent. 00:06:33.168 --> 00:06:34.710 align:middle line:84% "Do you know what I'm talking about?" 00:06:34.710 --> 00:06:37.750 align:middle line:90% She paused, went on. 00:06:37.750 --> 00:06:39.800 align:middle line:84% "I have to say, when I first heard about it, 00:06:39.800 --> 00:06:41.260 align:middle line:90% I didn't like the idea. 00:06:41.260 --> 00:06:43.750 align:middle line:84% But I've now come around to thinking 00:06:43.750 --> 00:06:48.310 align:middle line:84% it's our only chance, his only chance." 00:06:48.310 --> 00:06:50.200 align:middle line:84% Karen described how she'd been talking 00:06:50.200 --> 00:06:55.240 align:middle line:84% to a psychotherapist who specialized in interventions. 00:06:55.240 --> 00:06:57.670 align:middle line:84% She'd been reading her books and articles. 00:06:57.670 --> 00:06:59.230 align:middle line:90% "We would meet in her office-- 00:06:59.230 --> 00:07:03.280 align:middle line:84% myself, people who are important to Frank. 00:07:03.280 --> 00:07:07.210 align:middle line:84% And each of us would confront him with love and honesty, 00:07:07.210 --> 00:07:10.030 align:middle line:84% but tell him, 'Frank, you're doing these things. 00:07:10.030 --> 00:07:12.368 align:middle line:90% This is how it looks. 00:07:12.368 --> 00:07:13.660 align:middle line:90% Cut it out, and we're with you. 00:07:13.660 --> 00:07:14.470 align:middle line:90% We'll support you. 00:07:14.470 --> 00:07:16.220 align:middle line:84% But if you don't stop and get help, 00:07:16.220 --> 00:07:18.530 align:middle line:90% here's what we're going to do.'" 00:07:18.530 --> 00:07:20.220 align:middle line:90% "What can you do?" 00:07:20.220 --> 00:07:22.220 align:middle line:84% "I can say, 'Frank, get help, and I'll be there. 00:07:22.220 --> 00:07:24.810 align:middle line:90% I'll love you and help you. 00:07:24.810 --> 00:07:29.420 align:middle line:84% Keep drinking and doing shit, I'm gone.'" Kramer was silent. 00:07:29.420 --> 00:07:31.160 align:middle line:90% "What, Kramer?" 00:07:31.160 --> 00:07:33.307 align:middle line:90% "I don't know, pretty cold." 00:07:33.307 --> 00:07:35.390 align:middle line:84% "Look, Kramer, if you love him and care about him, 00:07:35.390 --> 00:07:38.630 align:middle line:84% this hard choice has to be made." 00:07:38.630 --> 00:07:40.700 align:middle line:84% Frank's never had any real limits. 00:07:40.700 --> 00:07:43.220 align:middle line:90% Kramer looked at the clock. 00:07:43.220 --> 00:07:44.830 align:middle line:90% He had to get off the phone. 00:07:44.830 --> 00:07:48.820 align:middle line:84% "He's a con man, Kramer, one of the best. 00:07:48.820 --> 00:07:50.200 align:middle line:90% He's conned all his friends. 00:07:50.200 --> 00:07:51.550 align:middle line:90% He's conned himself. 00:07:51.550 --> 00:07:54.100 align:middle line:84% I'm the only one he can't con, and that's 00:07:54.100 --> 00:07:56.800 align:middle line:90% why I'm the one he stays with. 00:07:56.800 --> 00:07:59.360 align:middle line:90% Kramer?" 00:07:59.360 --> 00:08:00.830 align:middle line:90% "I just have a lot of questions. 00:08:00.830 --> 00:08:03.080 align:middle line:84% Look, Karen, I've got a meeting in 20 minutes." 00:08:03.080 --> 00:08:04.850 align:middle line:90% "You don't have time for this?" 00:08:04.850 --> 00:08:05.707 align:middle line:90% "I didn't say that. 00:08:05.707 --> 00:08:07.790 align:middle line:84% I said I have a meeting, and I'm going to be late. 00:08:07.790 --> 00:08:10.714 align:middle line:90% I'll call you back." 00:08:10.714 --> 00:08:14.390 align:middle line:84% "No, whatever you do, don't call me back," her voice was urgent, 00:08:14.390 --> 00:08:18.230 align:middle line:84% "Give me a time, and I'll call you." 00:08:18.230 --> 00:08:21.560 align:middle line:84% They agreed on a time, 3:00 PM, and Kramer hung up and rushed 00:08:21.560 --> 00:08:22.610 align:middle line:90% to dress for his meeting. 00:08:22.610 --> 00:08:28.970 align:middle line:90% 00:08:28.970 --> 00:08:32.659 align:middle line:84% But Kramer couldn't keep his mind on the discussion. 00:08:32.659 --> 00:08:36.659 align:middle line:84% He kept thinking about Frank last spring. 00:08:36.659 --> 00:08:39.210 align:middle line:84% After he left San Francisco, he'd heard nothing from him 00:08:39.210 --> 00:08:40.320 align:middle line:90% for weeks. 00:08:40.320 --> 00:08:42.690 align:middle line:84% Kramer called the house but always got the answering 00:08:42.690 --> 00:08:45.790 align:middle line:90% machine, same at the office. 00:08:45.790 --> 00:08:47.040 align:middle line:90% He let it ride. 00:08:47.040 --> 00:08:49.950 align:middle line:90% In early June, Frank surfaced. 00:08:49.950 --> 00:08:52.320 align:middle line:84% "Sorry I haven't called, Kramer, and I'm in a rush now, 00:08:52.320 --> 00:08:54.270 align:middle line:84% but want to tell you what's been happening." 00:08:54.270 --> 00:08:58.650 align:middle line:84% Five days after Kramer's visit, he referred all of his cases 00:08:58.650 --> 00:09:01.230 align:middle line:84% and checked himself into a detox place. 00:09:01.230 --> 00:09:03.330 align:middle line:84% He'd been there for the last six weeks. 00:09:03.330 --> 00:09:06.360 align:middle line:84% He felt great and had come to a lot of realizations. 00:09:06.360 --> 00:09:08.100 align:middle line:84% Just being away from Karen made him 00:09:08.100 --> 00:09:11.220 align:middle line:84% see she was a good part of his problem. 00:09:11.220 --> 00:09:13.740 align:middle line:84% He decided not to move back in with her. 00:09:13.740 --> 00:09:16.530 align:middle line:84% He'd started seeing one of the alcohol counselors. 00:09:16.530 --> 00:09:18.240 align:middle line:84% He thought he was in love with Sidra. 00:09:18.240 --> 00:09:19.830 align:middle line:90% Maybe they'd go to Australia. 00:09:19.830 --> 00:09:22.320 align:middle line:84% "Hey, I know how it sounds, but--" 00:09:22.320 --> 00:09:27.090 align:middle line:84% When he'd finished, Kramer said, "Why do it all in one fell 00:09:27.090 --> 00:09:27.960 align:middle line:90% swoop, Frank? 00:09:27.960 --> 00:09:28.620 align:middle line:90% You went. 00:09:28.620 --> 00:09:29.760 align:middle line:90% You detoxed. 00:09:29.760 --> 00:09:30.780 align:middle line:90% That's great. 00:09:30.780 --> 00:09:33.922 align:middle line:84% Why not just slow it down with Sidra?" 00:09:33.922 --> 00:09:35.130 align:middle line:90% Frank said, "Hey, I'm jammed. 00:09:35.130 --> 00:09:36.255 align:middle line:90% I've got to meet a witness. 00:09:36.255 --> 00:09:37.800 align:middle line:90% We'll talk," and hung up. 00:09:37.800 --> 00:09:40.050 align:middle line:84% Two weeks later, Frank called again. 00:09:40.050 --> 00:09:41.208 align:middle line:90% He'd gotten his own place. 00:09:41.208 --> 00:09:43.500 align:middle line:84% He was still seeing Sidra, and it was better than ever. 00:09:43.500 --> 00:09:45.930 align:middle line:84% He had a dozen new cases, was doing great. 00:09:45.930 --> 00:09:47.430 align:middle line:84% And though Karen was begging him, 00:09:47.430 --> 00:09:49.770 align:middle line:84% he was determined not to move back in with her. 00:09:49.770 --> 00:09:51.750 align:middle line:84% And, yeah, he was broke, but he'd 00:09:51.750 --> 00:09:55.430 align:middle line:84% registered for the next bar exam in December. 00:09:55.430 --> 00:09:58.160 align:middle line:84% After that, Kramer hadn't heard from Frank. 00:09:58.160 --> 00:09:59.840 align:middle line:84% And now Karen had called, telling him 00:09:59.840 --> 00:10:02.297 align:middle line:84% Frank had moved back in and was stoned. 00:10:02.297 --> 00:10:03.755 align:middle line:84% Kramer didn't know what to believe. 00:10:03.755 --> 00:10:06.970 align:middle line:90% 00:10:06.970 --> 00:10:09.880 align:middle line:84% At 3:00 on the dot, Karen called back. 00:10:09.880 --> 00:10:13.600 align:middle line:90% Kramer asked, "Where were we?" 00:10:13.600 --> 00:10:18.700 align:middle line:84% Her voice high, Karen started right in where she left off, 00:10:18.700 --> 00:10:21.260 align:middle line:84% "You had questions about the intervention." 00:10:21.260 --> 00:10:22.060 align:middle line:90% "Right, I do. 00:10:22.060 --> 00:10:23.198 align:middle line:90% Let me think. 00:10:23.198 --> 00:10:24.740 align:middle line:84% You know, one big question I have is, 00:10:24.740 --> 00:10:26.365 align:middle line:84% how do you get Frank to an intervention 00:10:26.365 --> 00:10:28.330 align:middle line:90% if he won't go to AA?" 00:10:28.330 --> 00:10:30.370 align:middle line:90% "Leave that to me." 00:10:30.370 --> 00:10:31.922 align:middle line:90% "OK, I'll leave that to you. 00:10:31.922 --> 00:10:33.880 align:middle line:84% And let's say you can get his friends together, 00:10:33.880 --> 00:10:35.290 align:middle line:90% and we confront him. 00:10:35.290 --> 00:10:36.040 align:middle line:90% What then? 00:10:36.040 --> 00:10:38.800 align:middle line:84% I once saw Frank serve a subpoena to a cop right there 00:10:38.800 --> 00:10:39.520 align:middle line:90% in the station. 00:10:39.520 --> 00:10:41.170 align:middle line:90% The cop threw it on the floor. 00:10:41.170 --> 00:10:45.150 align:middle line:84% Frank picked it up and jammed it in the cop's pants. 00:10:45.150 --> 00:10:47.208 align:middle line:84% I mean, he's not going to take it lying down." 00:10:47.208 --> 00:10:48.000 align:middle line:90% Be where you're at. 00:10:48.000 --> 00:10:49.000 align:middle line:90% Everything's everything. 00:10:49.000 --> 00:10:50.750 align:middle line:84% Get in touch with your feelings, whatever. 00:10:50.750 --> 00:10:53.400 align:middle line:90% 00:10:53.400 --> 00:10:54.810 align:middle line:90% "Kramer, I know what he can be. 00:10:54.810 --> 00:10:57.210 align:middle line:84% Look, no one gets the whole story from Frank. 00:10:57.210 --> 00:10:58.800 align:middle line:84% Everyone gets a piece of the story, 00:10:58.800 --> 00:11:01.200 align:middle line:84% but no one ever gets the whole story. 00:11:01.200 --> 00:11:06.590 align:middle line:84% The idea here is that by bringing everyone together, 00:11:06.590 --> 00:11:09.350 align:middle line:84% we can get all the stories in the same room. 00:11:09.350 --> 00:11:12.950 align:middle line:84% The point is to put a dent in his denial." 00:11:12.950 --> 00:11:15.140 align:middle line:90% Kramer looked out into the yard. 00:11:15.140 --> 00:11:18.490 align:middle line:84% Karen seemed to have answers for everything. 00:11:18.490 --> 00:11:21.040 align:middle line:84% "You know, Karen, if Frank is drunk--" 00:11:21.040 --> 00:11:22.090 align:middle line:90% "He is drunk. 00:11:22.090 --> 00:11:22.930 align:middle line:90% Why if? 00:11:22.930 --> 00:11:25.270 align:middle line:90% Drunk and stoned!" 00:11:25.270 --> 00:11:28.930 align:middle line:84% "I still don't like interfering in a friend's life. 00:11:28.930 --> 00:11:31.660 align:middle line:84% When he bottoms out, when he wants help, he'll get it." 00:11:31.660 --> 00:11:34.630 align:middle line:84% "I've just gone through that with you," she stopped. 00:11:34.630 --> 00:11:36.575 align:middle line:84% Sounding miserable, taut, she said, 00:11:36.575 --> 00:11:38.200 align:middle line:84% "I don't mean to raise my voice, but it 00:11:38.200 --> 00:11:40.240 align:middle line:90% is so hard to make people see. 00:11:40.240 --> 00:11:42.940 align:middle line:84% Look, you pulled a child from in front of an oncoming car. 00:11:42.940 --> 00:11:45.520 align:middle line:90% You did take him to AA." 00:11:45.520 --> 00:11:47.020 align:middle line:90% "I asked him if he wanted to go. 00:11:47.020 --> 00:11:48.130 align:middle line:90% He said yes. 00:11:48.130 --> 00:11:51.760 align:middle line:84% There wasn't all this conniving and secrecy." 00:11:51.760 --> 00:11:55.400 align:middle line:84% "Well, it's too bad it's come to this, but it has." 00:11:55.400 --> 00:11:58.180 align:middle line:84% "I'm afraid it will knock him to his knees." 00:11:58.180 --> 00:11:59.800 align:middle line:90% "Can't I make you understand? 00:11:59.800 --> 00:12:00.970 align:middle line:90% He is on his knees. 00:12:00.970 --> 00:12:03.670 align:middle line:84% There's nothing left to do, and the intervention 00:12:03.670 --> 00:12:07.028 align:middle line:84% is supposed to knock him to his knees." 00:12:07.028 --> 00:12:09.070 align:middle line:84% "I thought you said he was already on his knees," 00:12:09.070 --> 00:12:10.930 align:middle line:90% Kramer said laconically. 00:12:10.930 --> 00:12:13.430 align:middle line:84% "Is it supposed to knock him flat?" 00:12:13.430 --> 00:12:14.950 align:middle line:90% "Kramer, please don't. 00:12:14.950 --> 00:12:17.170 align:middle line:90% Kramer, look, it's a disease." 00:12:17.170 --> 00:12:21.790 align:middle line:84% Kramer said with impatience, "OK, Karen, 00:12:21.790 --> 00:12:23.440 align:middle line:90% say we have the intervention. 00:12:23.440 --> 00:12:24.940 align:middle line:90% Then what?" 00:12:24.940 --> 00:12:28.360 align:middle line:84% "I have a 30-day inpatient program lined up for him, detox 00:12:28.360 --> 00:12:29.590 align:middle line:90% and intensive counseling. 00:12:29.590 --> 00:12:31.090 align:middle line:84% It's in another state where he can't 00:12:31.090 --> 00:12:33.190 align:middle line:90% get drugs or see his friends. 00:12:33.190 --> 00:12:35.710 align:middle line:84% Before he can work the intervention into his denial 00:12:35.710 --> 00:12:38.110 align:middle line:84% system, we take him straight from the therapist's office 00:12:38.110 --> 00:12:39.040 align:middle line:90% to the airport. 00:12:39.040 --> 00:12:40.840 align:middle line:90% We put him on a plane. 00:12:40.840 --> 00:12:45.680 align:middle line:84% The detox people are waiting on the other end." 00:12:45.680 --> 00:12:47.930 align:middle line:90% "And if he won't go?" 00:12:47.930 --> 00:12:50.120 align:middle line:84% "I might be able to get him committed, 00:12:50.120 --> 00:12:53.000 align:middle line:84% but I know he'll go," she said quietly. 00:12:53.000 --> 00:12:56.330 align:middle line:84% "If his friends show up, he'll go. 00:12:56.330 --> 00:13:00.740 align:middle line:84% I scheduled the intervention for a week from this Sunday. 00:13:00.740 --> 00:13:04.070 align:middle line:84% I'm asking you, Sean Connolly, Jules Levine, his sister. 00:13:04.070 --> 00:13:04.820 align:middle line:90% I'll be there." 00:13:04.820 --> 00:13:06.650 align:middle line:90% She listed several people. 00:13:06.650 --> 00:13:08.120 align:middle line:90% "Are you coming, Kramer?" 00:13:08.120 --> 00:13:12.740 align:middle line:84% Kramer hesitated, "I'll tell you, Karen, I don't know. 00:13:12.740 --> 00:13:14.270 align:middle line:90% I'll have to think about it." 00:13:14.270 --> 00:13:16.340 align:middle line:84% "Christ, what's there to think about? 00:13:16.340 --> 00:13:18.830 align:middle line:84% God, why won't people believe me? 00:13:18.830 --> 00:13:20.870 align:middle line:84% What do I have to do, write it in blood? 00:13:20.870 --> 00:13:23.000 align:middle line:84% I'm not talking about saving our marriage. 00:13:23.000 --> 00:13:26.835 align:middle line:84% I'm talking about saving Frank's life. 00:13:26.835 --> 00:13:28.210 align:middle line:84% There's not much time, and I need 00:13:28.210 --> 00:13:30.940 align:middle line:84% to know from people if I'm going to be able to make this happen. 00:13:30.940 --> 00:13:32.920 align:middle line:84% You're supposed to be his friends. 00:13:32.920 --> 00:13:35.010 align:middle line:90% Are you too busy?" 00:13:35.010 --> 00:13:37.380 align:middle line:84% She quieted, said with resignation, 00:13:37.380 --> 00:13:38.820 align:middle line:90% "What's there to think about? 00:13:38.820 --> 00:13:41.910 align:middle line:84% Look, I'll send you some of the therapist's articles 00:13:41.910 --> 00:13:43.590 align:middle line:90% on intervention. 00:13:43.590 --> 00:13:47.640 align:middle line:84% Her name is Germaine Blumenthal, the therapist, 00:13:47.640 --> 00:13:49.890 align:middle line:90% and she's very well known. 00:13:49.890 --> 00:13:52.230 align:middle line:84% I'll call you back in a few days. 00:13:52.230 --> 00:13:53.520 align:middle line:90% Kramer, I'm hoarse. 00:13:53.520 --> 00:13:56.130 align:middle line:84% I've been on the phone for days calling people. 00:13:56.130 --> 00:13:58.350 align:middle line:90% I realize I sound stressed out. 00:13:58.350 --> 00:14:00.240 align:middle line:84% I've been dealing with Frank for weeks. 00:14:00.240 --> 00:14:02.220 align:middle line:84% I know you don't really like me." 00:14:02.220 --> 00:14:03.810 align:middle line:90% "Karen?" 00:14:03.810 --> 00:14:04.860 align:middle line:90% "It's OK. 00:14:04.860 --> 00:14:07.350 align:middle line:90% This is for Frank. 00:14:07.350 --> 00:14:09.040 align:middle line:90% I do know what I'm doing. 00:14:09.040 --> 00:14:10.650 align:middle line:90% I'll say one last thing. 00:14:10.650 --> 00:14:12.450 align:middle line:90% We're all part of his system-- 00:14:12.450 --> 00:14:14.610 align:middle line:90% you, me, his close friends. 00:14:14.610 --> 00:14:16.680 align:middle line:84% Like it or not, we have helped create him. 00:14:16.680 --> 00:14:19.290 align:middle line:84% He may even be acting out our unconscious desires." 00:14:19.290 --> 00:14:22.200 align:middle line:90% 00:14:22.200 --> 00:14:24.990 align:middle line:84% Kramer suppressed a sound of contempt. 00:14:24.990 --> 00:14:27.000 align:middle line:90% He knew this was Al-Anon talk. 00:14:27.000 --> 00:14:30.075 align:middle line:84% He said, "He may be a beast, but he's our beast." 00:14:30.075 --> 00:14:33.120 align:middle line:90% 00:14:33.120 --> 00:14:36.720 align:middle line:84% Karen went on without replying, "We've laughed 00:14:36.720 --> 00:14:37.980 align:middle line:90% at his jokes and bullshit. 00:14:37.980 --> 00:14:40.020 align:middle line:84% We've given him strokes for being a wise guy. 00:14:40.020 --> 00:14:40.830 align:middle line:90% Hey, I'll admit it. 00:14:40.830 --> 00:14:42.630 align:middle line:84% I've loved him for going over the line. 00:14:42.630 --> 00:14:45.450 align:middle line:84% We all have, and that's why I'm saying we're all responsible 00:14:45.450 --> 00:14:46.470 align:middle line:90% now." 00:14:46.470 --> 00:14:48.450 align:middle line:90% She lapsed into silence. 00:14:48.450 --> 00:14:50.810 align:middle line:90% "OK, think about it." 00:14:50.810 --> 00:14:54.300 align:middle line:84% In a tired voice she said, "One last thing-- 00:14:54.300 --> 00:14:57.088 align:middle line:90% whatever you do, don't call me. 00:14:57.088 --> 00:14:59.130 align:middle line:84% If Frank's at the house, I won't be able to talk, 00:14:59.130 --> 00:15:00.960 align:middle line:84% and it will just raise questions. 00:15:00.960 --> 00:15:02.670 align:middle line:90% I'm phoning from a friend's. 00:15:02.670 --> 00:15:05.940 align:middle line:84% And, oh, Christ, I know how crazy this must sound, 00:15:05.940 --> 00:15:07.680 align:middle line:84% but another reason not to phone is 00:15:07.680 --> 00:15:10.020 align:middle line:90% he may have tapped the phone. 00:15:10.020 --> 00:15:12.660 align:middle line:84% He's become so suspicious of everyone." 00:15:12.660 --> 00:15:14.400 align:middle line:90% Kramer couldn't help himself. 00:15:14.400 --> 00:15:16.500 align:middle line:90% He laughed. 00:15:16.500 --> 00:15:18.000 align:middle line:90% "OK, Kramer, laugh. 00:15:18.000 --> 00:15:19.320 align:middle line:90% You think it's funny. 00:15:19.320 --> 00:15:21.030 align:middle line:90% Wait until you see him. 00:15:21.030 --> 00:15:22.110 align:middle line:90% I'll call you back. 00:15:22.110 --> 00:15:24.220 align:middle line:90% Kramer?" 00:15:24.220 --> 00:15:25.930 align:middle line:90% "What?" 00:15:25.930 --> 00:15:27.970 align:middle line:84% "However you decide, promise me you 00:15:27.970 --> 00:15:30.400 align:middle line:84% won't warn him of this out of some misguided sense 00:15:30.400 --> 00:15:31.360 align:middle line:90% of loyalty." 00:15:31.360 --> 00:15:33.070 align:middle line:90% "Hey, I already promised you." 00:15:33.070 --> 00:15:34.000 align:middle line:90% "I know. 00:15:34.000 --> 00:15:35.560 align:middle line:90% Right, I believe you. 00:15:35.560 --> 00:15:38.560 align:middle line:84% It's just that I'm so used to dealing with Frank." 00:15:38.560 --> 00:15:39.610 align:middle line:90% "Call me in a few days. 00:15:39.610 --> 00:15:40.300 align:middle line:90% Bye, Karen." 00:15:40.300 --> 00:15:40.960 align:middle line:90% He didn't wait. 00:15:40.960 --> 00:15:43.980 align:middle line:90% He hung up. 00:15:43.980 --> 00:15:45.510 align:middle line:84% After thinking it over for a day, 00:15:45.510 --> 00:15:47.520 align:middle line:84% Kramer could come to no conclusions. 00:15:47.520 --> 00:15:49.980 align:middle line:84% He thought of Sean Connolly in Chicago. 00:15:49.980 --> 00:15:52.650 align:middle line:84% Karen had mentioned him for the intervention, 00:15:52.650 --> 00:15:55.830 align:middle line:84% and Sean had known Frank since they'd been altar boys. 00:15:55.830 --> 00:15:57.000 align:middle line:90% Kramer called him. 00:15:57.000 --> 00:15:57.990 align:middle line:90% "Had Karen phoned?" 00:15:57.990 --> 00:16:01.600 align:middle line:84% "Oh, yeah, two-hours worth last night. 00:16:01.600 --> 00:16:04.880 align:middle line:84% I'll tell you, I don't know what to think, Kramer. 00:16:04.880 --> 00:16:06.920 align:middle line:84% I talked to Karen about a month ago. 00:16:06.920 --> 00:16:09.140 align:middle line:84% That was just after Frank had moved back in. 00:16:09.140 --> 00:16:11.060 align:middle line:90% She kept talking about Sidra. 00:16:11.060 --> 00:16:14.120 align:middle line:84% Karen visited Frank when he went to that detox place 00:16:14.120 --> 00:16:15.500 align:middle line:90% last spring. 00:16:15.500 --> 00:16:18.860 align:middle line:84% Came the day Sidra gave a lecture. 00:16:18.860 --> 00:16:21.770 align:middle line:84% Karen thought she was on a big power trip. 00:16:21.770 --> 00:16:23.810 align:middle line:84% According to Karen, Sidra gets up there 00:16:23.810 --> 00:16:25.640 align:middle line:84% and gives this well-rehearsed speech. 00:16:25.640 --> 00:16:28.550 align:middle line:84% Let me tell you how it is, I've been to hell and back. 00:16:28.550 --> 00:16:31.820 align:middle line:84% Afterward, Frank's sitting out by the pool, 00:16:31.820 --> 00:16:34.820 align:middle line:84% and Sidra comes walking out in a string bikini 00:16:34.820 --> 00:16:36.740 align:middle line:90% and sits down next to him. 00:16:36.740 --> 00:16:39.410 align:middle line:84% Karen says she must have had a lot of contempt for Frank 00:16:39.410 --> 00:16:41.690 align:middle line:84% to go after him when he was so fragile. 00:16:41.690 --> 00:16:44.420 align:middle line:84% She says to me, 'Christ, there are a lot of desperate 00:16:44.420 --> 00:16:47.630 align:middle line:84% 38-year-old women out there hunting for men.' 00:16:47.630 --> 00:16:52.580 align:middle line:84% She told me she was going to sue the detox place." 00:16:52.580 --> 00:16:54.500 align:middle line:90% Sean was quiet a moment. 00:16:54.500 --> 00:16:58.310 align:middle line:84% "Karen said, 'To Frank, she's a complete fantasy-- 00:16:58.310 --> 00:17:01.070 align:middle line:84% no dirty socks in the hall, nothing. 00:17:01.070 --> 00:17:03.860 align:middle line:84% It's one thing losing out to another woman-- a real woman, 00:17:03.860 --> 00:17:05.000 align:middle line:90% flesh and blood. 00:17:05.000 --> 00:17:07.640 align:middle line:84% That's bad enough, but it's humiliating when 00:17:07.640 --> 00:17:10.819 align:middle line:84% it's a fantasy, the big tit in the sky.' 00:17:10.819 --> 00:17:14.910 align:middle line:84% I remember because it struck me so odd." 00:17:14.910 --> 00:17:15.750 align:middle line:90% They were silent. 00:17:15.750 --> 00:17:18.839 align:middle line:84% Kramer said "Mm, I don't know what's going on-- 00:17:18.839 --> 00:17:22.230 align:middle line:84% why he went back to her, if he's drinking, if she's lying, what. 00:17:22.230 --> 00:17:24.599 align:middle line:90% And detox places are expensive. 00:17:24.599 --> 00:17:28.140 align:middle line:84% Where's the money supposed to come from?" 00:17:28.140 --> 00:17:32.670 align:middle line:84% "She wants each of us to put up $1,000." 00:17:32.670 --> 00:17:35.160 align:middle line:84% "She forgot to mention that little detail. 00:17:35.160 --> 00:17:36.720 align:middle line:90% Christ, are you going, Sean?" 00:17:36.720 --> 00:17:37.440 align:middle line:90% "I don't know. 00:17:37.440 --> 00:17:38.940 align:middle line:84% I'll give you a call when I decide." 00:17:38.940 --> 00:17:42.000 align:middle line:90% 00:17:42.000 --> 00:17:45.600 align:middle line:84% Kramer was on his second cup of coffee when the phone rang. 00:17:45.600 --> 00:17:48.090 align:middle line:84% "Good morning, is this Steven L. Kramer?" 00:17:48.090 --> 00:17:49.860 align:middle line:84% The official tone of voice made Kramer 00:17:49.860 --> 00:17:51.450 align:middle line:90% feel a stab of nervousness. 00:17:51.450 --> 00:17:52.980 align:middle line:90% "Yes, it is." 00:17:52.980 --> 00:17:55.350 align:middle line:84% "This is James Lucky of the Phoenix Police Department. 00:17:55.350 --> 00:18:00.140 align:middle line:84% Do you own a blue 1983 Blazer, Arizona license plate number 00:18:00.140 --> 00:18:01.850 align:middle line:90% PGN121?" 00:18:01.850 --> 00:18:03.373 align:middle line:90% "Yes, I do." 00:18:03.373 --> 00:18:05.540 align:middle line:84% "We have a report it's been stolen and been involved 00:18:05.540 --> 00:18:08.150 align:middle line:84% in a jewelry store robbery and a hit-and-run pedestrian 00:18:08.150 --> 00:18:10.370 align:middle line:90% fatality. 00:18:10.370 --> 00:18:12.140 align:middle line:84% Confused, heart starting to pound, 00:18:12.140 --> 00:18:14.960 align:middle line:84% Kramer walked the phone to the window and looked out. 00:18:14.960 --> 00:18:17.360 align:middle line:84% The car was sitting in the driveway. 00:18:17.360 --> 00:18:19.010 align:middle line:90% Frank started to laugh. 00:18:19.010 --> 00:18:21.380 align:middle line:90% "Gotcha, didn't I, Kramer?" 00:18:21.380 --> 00:18:22.910 align:middle line:90% Relieved, Kramer laughed. 00:18:22.910 --> 00:18:25.850 align:middle line:84% "What's been happening, dude-san?" 00:18:25.850 --> 00:18:29.720 align:middle line:84% "Work, June and the baby, what about you?" 00:18:29.720 --> 00:18:31.190 align:middle line:90% "I'm in my office. 00:18:31.190 --> 00:18:34.550 align:middle line:84% My client's going to trial in two hours, Tyrone Davis. 00:18:34.550 --> 00:18:37.460 align:middle line:84% What it is, slick, two niggers living in a rooming house. 00:18:37.460 --> 00:18:40.580 align:middle line:84% My man Tyrone is a sweet guy, keeps to himself. 00:18:40.580 --> 00:18:43.940 align:middle line:84% He's a composer and keyboard player. 00:18:43.940 --> 00:18:45.680 align:middle line:90% Jamal Kelly lives downstairs. 00:18:45.680 --> 00:18:48.140 align:middle line:84% He keeps threatening Tyrone, pushing him around. 00:18:48.140 --> 00:18:52.380 align:middle line:84% Kelly steals Davis's keyboards, but Davis can't prove it. 00:18:52.380 --> 00:18:54.170 align:middle line:90% I just turned them up in pawn. 00:18:54.170 --> 00:18:55.820 align:middle line:90% Anyway, Tyrone, he's scared. 00:18:55.820 --> 00:18:57.140 align:middle line:90% He get himself some heat. 00:18:57.140 --> 00:18:59.660 align:middle line:84% Finally, Jamal, he get fucked up behind Hubbas, 00:18:59.660 --> 00:19:01.850 align:middle line:84% forces his way into Tyrone's room. 00:19:01.850 --> 00:19:03.140 align:middle line:90% This happens, that. 00:19:03.140 --> 00:19:06.130 align:middle line:90% 00:19:06.130 --> 00:19:09.370 align:middle line:84% Tyrone shoots him with a .357 magnum-- 00:19:09.370 --> 00:19:12.020 align:middle line:84% good shot too, right in the forehead. 00:19:12.020 --> 00:19:14.500 align:middle line:90% Levine's arguing self-defense. 00:19:14.500 --> 00:19:17.500 align:middle line:84% Kelly really was a bad nigger, a long record of assault, 00:19:17.500 --> 00:19:20.760 align:middle line:90% so my job's been easy." 00:19:20.760 --> 00:19:25.170 align:middle line:84% "I thought you and Jules Levine had a falling out over money." 00:19:25.170 --> 00:19:26.520 align:middle line:90% "Well, yes and no. 00:19:26.520 --> 00:19:28.290 align:middle line:84% But everything's cool again, for now. 00:19:28.290 --> 00:19:30.730 align:middle line:84% You know, Levine be cool when he need me. 00:19:30.730 --> 00:19:32.370 align:middle line:84% I'll tell you when I've got more time. 00:19:32.370 --> 00:19:33.840 align:middle line:90% Hey, when did we last talk? 00:19:33.840 --> 00:19:34.940 align:middle line:90% A while, right? 00:19:34.940 --> 00:19:37.800 align:middle line:84% Have we spoken since I moved back in with Karen?" 00:19:37.800 --> 00:19:39.390 align:middle line:90% "No, I don't think so." 00:19:39.390 --> 00:19:41.470 align:middle line:84% "The thing with Sidra got to be too much. 00:19:41.470 --> 00:19:44.220 align:middle line:84% Nice woman, but the fact is, fucked up as we are, 00:19:44.220 --> 00:19:45.480 align:middle line:90% I love Karen. 00:19:45.480 --> 00:19:47.850 align:middle line:84% She said if it was over with Sidra, then come back, 00:19:47.850 --> 00:19:50.560 align:middle line:90% and let's put it behind us. 00:19:50.560 --> 00:19:53.530 align:middle line:84% But what's happening, Kramer, is she keeps looking for evidence 00:19:53.530 --> 00:19:54.790 align:middle line:90% that I'm with Sidra-- 00:19:54.790 --> 00:19:57.280 align:middle line:84% and not just Sidra, but other women. 00:19:57.280 --> 00:19:58.000 align:middle line:90% I can tell. 00:19:58.000 --> 00:19:59.770 align:middle line:84% She's been going through my things. 00:19:59.770 --> 00:20:02.530 align:middle line:84% She's looking for letters, phone numbers, anything. 00:20:02.530 --> 00:20:04.330 align:middle line:84% I don't know what Karen thinks she'll find, 00:20:04.330 --> 00:20:05.830 align:middle line:84% but if she thought it through, she'd 00:20:05.830 --> 00:20:09.430 align:middle line:84% realize that whatever it is wouldn't be at home anyway." 00:20:09.430 --> 00:20:11.380 align:middle line:90% "I don't know, Frank." 00:20:11.380 --> 00:20:13.360 align:middle line:90% "Karen says forgive and forget. 00:20:13.360 --> 00:20:15.010 align:middle line:84% But why haven't I learned by now? 00:20:15.010 --> 00:20:17.440 align:middle line:84% Karen never forgives and forgets anything. 00:20:17.440 --> 00:20:19.480 align:middle line:84% Kramer, I think she's up to something, 00:20:19.480 --> 00:20:21.760 align:middle line:84% maybe calling people and telling them 00:20:21.760 --> 00:20:25.930 align:middle line:84% that I'm doing this and that-- drinking, whatever. 00:20:25.930 --> 00:20:29.310 align:middle line:84% She's trying to discredit me with my friends." 00:20:29.310 --> 00:20:30.450 align:middle line:90% Kramer was silent. 00:20:30.450 --> 00:20:32.430 align:middle line:84% "Hey, I got to get down to the Hall of Justice. 00:20:32.430 --> 00:20:34.650 align:middle line:84% You know, slick, she can dig all she wants, 00:20:34.650 --> 00:20:36.460 align:middle line:84% but I'm really not doing anything. 00:20:36.460 --> 00:20:39.870 align:middle line:84% Has she called you in the last couple of weeks?" 00:20:39.870 --> 00:20:43.020 align:middle line:84% Kramer looked out the window at the Blazer. 00:20:43.020 --> 00:20:45.780 align:middle line:90% "Why would she call me?" 00:20:45.780 --> 00:20:46.470 align:middle line:90% "I don't know. 00:20:46.470 --> 00:20:48.490 align:middle line:84% I just got this feeling she's up to something. 00:20:48.490 --> 00:20:49.698 align:middle line:90% Let me know if she calls you. 00:20:49.698 --> 00:20:51.060 align:middle line:90% OK, man?" 00:20:51.060 --> 00:20:53.470 align:middle line:84% Kramer didn't answer and therefore told himself 00:20:53.470 --> 00:20:56.130 align:middle line:90% he wasn't really lying. 00:20:56.130 --> 00:20:57.060 align:middle line:90% "Later, slick. 00:20:57.060 --> 00:20:58.380 align:middle line:90% Tyrone, we going to walk him. 00:20:58.380 --> 00:21:00.060 align:middle line:90% Hey, you know something? 00:21:00.060 --> 00:21:02.310 align:middle line:84% Jules and I have done some numbers, but this time 00:21:02.310 --> 00:21:03.960 align:middle line:90% it really was self-defense." 00:21:03.960 --> 00:21:07.960 align:middle line:90% 00:21:07.960 --> 00:21:10.780 align:middle line:84% June held out the phone as Kramer came in the door. 00:21:10.780 --> 00:21:11.620 align:middle line:90% "Kramer! 00:21:11.620 --> 00:21:14.230 align:middle line:84% Christ, I've been trying to reach you for three days. 00:21:14.230 --> 00:21:15.910 align:middle line:90% Where have you been?" 00:21:15.910 --> 00:21:19.480 align:middle line:84% "Living, talking to my wife, playing with my kid. 00:21:19.480 --> 00:21:22.870 align:middle line:84% You could have made it easier on yourself, Karen, 00:21:22.870 --> 00:21:25.330 align:middle line:84% if you'd left me a number where I could leave a message. 00:21:25.330 --> 00:21:27.160 align:middle line:84% Maybe a secret password, you know? 00:21:27.160 --> 00:21:28.210 align:middle line:90% This is Don Carlo. 00:21:28.210 --> 00:21:29.050 align:middle line:90% The ship is docked." 00:21:29.050 --> 00:21:31.960 align:middle line:90% 00:21:31.960 --> 00:21:34.000 align:middle line:84% "Has Frank called you since we spoke?" 00:21:34.000 --> 00:21:35.470 align:middle line:90% "As a matter of fact, he has." 00:21:35.470 --> 00:21:36.490 align:middle line:90% "Kramer?" 00:21:36.490 --> 00:21:37.660 align:middle line:90% "I didn't say anything." 00:21:37.660 --> 00:21:39.010 align:middle line:90% "Kramer?" 00:21:39.010 --> 00:21:39.850 align:middle line:90% "I said I didn't. 00:21:39.850 --> 00:21:42.790 align:middle line:84% It's just a coincidence he called. 00:21:42.790 --> 00:21:45.040 align:middle line:84% He doesn't know, but he has instincts something's 00:21:45.040 --> 00:21:46.240 align:middle line:90% happening." 00:21:46.240 --> 00:21:48.640 align:middle line:84% "I really pray you didn't say anything, Kramer. 00:21:48.640 --> 00:21:49.510 align:middle line:90% He'll con you. 00:21:49.510 --> 00:21:52.250 align:middle line:84% He'll sound absolutely normal and in control. 00:21:52.250 --> 00:21:57.340 align:middle line:84% If you warn Frank, we'll never get him to the intervention." 00:21:57.340 --> 00:22:00.010 align:middle line:84% "I haven't told him, and if you question me one more time 00:22:00.010 --> 00:22:02.020 align:middle line:90% about this, I'm hanging up." 00:22:02.020 --> 00:22:03.790 align:middle line:90% "All right, sorry. 00:22:03.790 --> 00:22:04.420 align:middle line:90% I believe you. 00:22:04.420 --> 00:22:06.130 align:middle line:90% I do. 00:22:06.130 --> 00:22:07.660 align:middle line:90% I'm just stressed out. 00:22:07.660 --> 00:22:09.880 align:middle line:84% You got the Blumenthal articles I sent you?" 00:22:09.880 --> 00:22:10.480 align:middle line:90% "Yep." 00:22:10.480 --> 00:22:12.100 align:middle line:84% "And you've had time to read them?" 00:22:12.100 --> 00:22:13.210 align:middle line:90% "Si." 00:22:13.210 --> 00:22:15.583 align:middle line:84% "Well, Kramer, I need to know, are you in or out? 00:22:15.583 --> 00:22:17.500 align:middle line:84% Remember, this isn't a matter of our marriage. 00:22:17.500 --> 00:22:20.880 align:middle line:90% This is Frank's life." 00:22:20.880 --> 00:22:23.940 align:middle line:84% "A couple more questions, Karen, if you don't mind." 00:22:23.940 --> 00:22:26.130 align:middle line:90% He heard a sigh of exasperation. 00:22:26.130 --> 00:22:28.080 align:middle line:90% He waited. 00:22:28.080 --> 00:22:29.130 align:middle line:90% "Go ahead." 00:22:29.130 --> 00:22:31.350 align:middle line:84% "Last time, you mentioned a detox place." 00:22:31.350 --> 00:22:33.320 align:middle line:90% "Right." 00:22:33.320 --> 00:22:34.850 align:middle line:90% "Those places cost a fortune. 00:22:34.850 --> 00:22:36.783 align:middle line:90% Where's the money coming from?" 00:22:36.783 --> 00:22:39.200 align:middle line:84% "I've borrowed some, and I thought each of Frank's friends 00:22:39.200 --> 00:22:40.790 align:middle line:90% could put in something." 00:22:40.790 --> 00:22:42.050 align:middle line:90% "How much?" 00:22:42.050 --> 00:22:46.290 align:middle line:84% "Money's not the issue here, and it will all be paid back." 00:22:46.290 --> 00:22:49.640 align:middle line:84% "We run Frank $10,000 more into debt for this without his 00:22:49.640 --> 00:22:51.700 align:middle line:90% say so?" 00:22:51.700 --> 00:22:53.527 align:middle line:84% "Under the circumstances, of course 00:22:53.527 --> 00:22:55.360 align:middle line:84% it wouldn't be with his say so. (VEHEMENTLY) 00:22:55.360 --> 00:22:59.210 align:middle line:90% It will be paid back." 00:22:59.210 --> 00:23:00.850 align:middle line:90% "He's already in debt." 00:23:00.850 --> 00:23:03.190 align:middle line:84% "He's also got money owed to him." 00:23:03.190 --> 00:23:07.060 align:middle line:84% Kramer knew she had no idea of the money lost last spring. 00:23:07.060 --> 00:23:08.770 align:middle line:90% "OK, it will be paid back. 00:23:08.770 --> 00:23:11.670 align:middle line:84% How much do you want from his friends?" 00:23:11.670 --> 00:23:13.340 align:middle line:90% "$1,000 each." 00:23:13.340 --> 00:23:14.750 align:middle line:90% "Great, Karen. 00:23:14.750 --> 00:23:15.830 align:middle line:90% Actually, I knew that. 00:23:15.830 --> 00:23:17.870 align:middle line:90% Why didn't you tell me before?" 00:23:17.870 --> 00:23:19.640 align:middle line:84% "Kramer, I've been on the phone for days 00:23:19.640 --> 00:23:20.672 align:middle line:90% to half a dozen people. 00:23:20.672 --> 00:23:21.380 align:middle line:90% You're something. 00:23:21.380 --> 00:23:23.380 align:middle line:84% If you don't want to do it because of the money, 00:23:23.380 --> 00:23:24.080 align:middle line:90% just say so. 00:23:24.080 --> 00:23:26.480 align:middle line:90% Has that been your big hang up?" 00:23:26.480 --> 00:23:29.990 align:middle line:84% "No, not at all, but it is something you left out." 00:23:29.990 --> 00:23:32.450 align:middle line:84% "What a friend, even to be thinking of money at a time 00:23:32.450 --> 00:23:34.570 align:middle line:90% like this." 00:23:34.570 --> 00:23:36.970 align:middle line:84% "Karen," Kramer held himself back. 00:23:36.970 --> 00:23:38.200 align:middle line:90% They were silent. 00:23:38.200 --> 00:23:41.200 align:middle line:84% Finally, Karen said, "Yes or no, Kramer? 00:23:41.200 --> 00:23:42.190 align:middle line:90% I have to know. 00:23:42.190 --> 00:23:44.260 align:middle line:90% There are only four more days." 00:23:44.260 --> 00:23:45.940 align:middle line:84% Kramer didn't know what to believe. 00:23:45.940 --> 00:23:47.650 align:middle line:84% He decided he couldn't know anything 00:23:47.650 --> 00:23:49.810 align:middle line:90% for sure without going. 00:23:49.810 --> 00:23:53.425 align:middle line:84% "Yes, and for your sake, Frank better be drunk." 00:23:53.425 --> 00:23:58.760 align:middle line:90% 00:23:58.760 --> 00:23:59.990 align:middle line:90% "Drunk is the least of it. 00:23:59.990 --> 00:24:00.680 align:middle line:90% You'll see. 00:24:00.680 --> 00:24:01.910 align:middle line:90% And thank you, Kramer." 00:24:01.910 --> 00:24:04.980 align:middle line:84% He heard a softening in her voice. 00:24:04.980 --> 00:24:06.390 align:middle line:90% "There's a map to her office. 00:24:06.390 --> 00:24:09.510 align:middle line:84% All the information is in the envelope-- everything. 00:24:09.510 --> 00:24:12.120 align:middle line:84% You can just go up and wait in Blumenthal's office. 00:24:12.120 --> 00:24:14.190 align:middle line:84% It's scheduled for Sunday at 1:00 PM. 00:24:14.190 --> 00:24:16.350 align:middle line:84% I'm telling Frank that we're going for lunch, 00:24:16.350 --> 00:24:19.360 align:middle line:84% and then I'm stopping to pick up a friend from work there. 00:24:19.360 --> 00:24:21.660 align:middle line:84% One last thing, you read in her article 00:24:21.660 --> 00:24:24.840 align:middle line:84% how each participant reads a letter-- 00:24:24.840 --> 00:24:26.940 align:middle line:84% what they care about, what he's been doing, 00:24:26.940 --> 00:24:30.090 align:middle line:84% and what they'll do if the person doesn't stop abusing?" 00:24:30.090 --> 00:24:31.350 align:middle line:90% "I read it." 00:24:31.350 --> 00:24:33.720 align:middle line:84% "Well, you could give that some careful thought. 00:24:33.720 --> 00:24:34.740 align:middle line:90% I'll see you Sunday." 00:24:34.740 --> 00:24:36.270 align:middle line:90% Kramer hung up. 00:24:36.270 --> 00:24:37.590 align:middle line:90% He called Sean. 00:24:37.590 --> 00:24:40.230 align:middle line:84% Sean said he'd gotten as far as plane reservations, 00:24:40.230 --> 00:24:41.220 align:middle line:90% but canceled. 00:24:41.220 --> 00:24:42.345 align:middle line:90% He couldn't really explain. 00:24:42.345 --> 00:24:45.880 align:middle line:90% 00:24:45.880 --> 00:24:48.670 align:middle line:84% Kramer climbed the carpeted stairs to the second floor, 00:24:48.670 --> 00:24:52.470 align:middle line:84% saw Blumenthal in the half-open door, and walked in. 00:24:52.470 --> 00:24:55.170 align:middle line:84% There was a waiting room and, beyond, a consultation room 00:24:55.170 --> 00:24:56.890 align:middle line:90% with a circle of chairs. 00:24:56.890 --> 00:24:59.580 align:middle line:84% Kramer saw Barry Mannis standing by the window. 00:24:59.580 --> 00:25:04.850 align:middle line:84% Mannis had worked part time for Frank as an investigator. 00:25:04.850 --> 00:25:08.090 align:middle line:84% Frank and Barry had an explosive, turbulent working 00:25:08.090 --> 00:25:09.860 align:middle line:84% relationship where Barry had quit 00:25:09.860 --> 00:25:12.920 align:middle line:84% or else Frank had fired him half a dozen times. 00:25:12.920 --> 00:25:14.570 align:middle line:84% They'd fought over everything-- money, 00:25:14.570 --> 00:25:16.760 align:middle line:90% hours, details large and small. 00:25:16.760 --> 00:25:19.160 align:middle line:84% They'd also won some big cases together. 00:25:19.160 --> 00:25:21.020 align:middle line:90% They nodded and shook hands. 00:25:21.020 --> 00:25:23.580 align:middle line:90% "You fly in for this?" 00:25:23.580 --> 00:25:25.920 align:middle line:90% "Last night, Karen summoned me. 00:25:25.920 --> 00:25:27.480 align:middle line:90% What's Frank up to?" 00:25:27.480 --> 00:25:30.390 align:middle line:84% "He's drinking and fucked up behind a lot of blow." 00:25:30.390 --> 00:25:32.400 align:middle line:84% Kramer waited, "Scheming and hustling, 00:25:32.400 --> 00:25:34.590 align:middle line:84% he's everything he's always been, but more. 00:25:34.590 --> 00:25:37.080 align:middle line:84% Who knows anything about Frank for sure? 00:25:37.080 --> 00:25:39.240 align:middle line:84% But I mean, can he live his life? 00:25:39.240 --> 00:25:40.530 align:middle line:90% Should we be doing this?" 00:25:40.530 --> 00:25:43.960 align:middle line:84% Barry shrugged, "Tough one to call." 00:25:43.960 --> 00:25:45.970 align:middle line:84% "You guys still working together?" 00:25:45.970 --> 00:25:46.480 align:middle line:90% "Oh, yeah. 00:25:46.480 --> 00:25:47.920 align:middle line:90% But there are so many hassles-- 00:25:47.920 --> 00:25:49.540 align:middle line:90% always money." 00:25:49.540 --> 00:25:50.620 align:middle line:90% Kramer nodded. 00:25:50.620 --> 00:25:53.260 align:middle line:84% They circled the waiting room, froze as the door opened 00:25:53.260 --> 00:25:54.970 align:middle line:90% and closed downstairs. 00:25:54.970 --> 00:25:58.240 align:middle line:84% Jules Levine, in slacks and sports jacket, walked in alone. 00:25:58.240 --> 00:26:01.180 align:middle line:84% He paused to catch his breath and take command of the room. 00:26:01.180 --> 00:26:03.880 align:middle line:90% Everyone shook hands. 00:26:03.880 --> 00:26:07.420 align:middle line:84% Frank had been his investigator on a dozen big cases, looked up 00:26:07.420 --> 00:26:10.720 align:middle line:84% to him at the same time he resented him-- rich kid. 00:26:10.720 --> 00:26:13.180 align:middle line:84% In another moment, Catherine came up the stairs-- 00:26:13.180 --> 00:26:14.680 align:middle line:90% Frank's younger sister. 00:26:14.680 --> 00:26:16.750 align:middle line:90% She was in her early 30s. 00:26:16.750 --> 00:26:18.400 align:middle line:84% She thanked each of them for coming 00:26:18.400 --> 00:26:21.040 align:middle line:84% and walked into the consultation room. 00:26:21.040 --> 00:26:22.390 align:middle line:90% Kramer looked at the clock. 00:26:22.390 --> 00:26:24.370 align:middle line:90% It was almost 1:00. 00:26:24.370 --> 00:26:26.500 align:middle line:84% A door at the back of the consultation room 00:26:26.500 --> 00:26:31.870 align:middle line:84% opened, and a woman, obviously Germaine Blumenthal, mid-30s, 00:26:31.870 --> 00:26:34.480 align:middle line:84% looked out at each of them and disappeared. 00:26:34.480 --> 00:26:36.910 align:middle line:84% Kramer's impression was fair-looking helped along 00:26:36.910 --> 00:26:39.790 align:middle line:84% by an expensive veneer, uptight, and in persona 00:26:39.790 --> 00:26:42.850 align:middle line:90% for the duration. 00:26:42.850 --> 00:26:45.130 align:middle line:84% Downstairs, they heard the door open and close, 00:26:45.130 --> 00:26:49.000 align:middle line:84% a woman's voice interweaving with heavy, syncopated steps. 00:26:49.000 --> 00:26:52.480 align:middle line:84% Karen stepped into the waiting room-- curly blonde hair, 00:26:52.480 --> 00:26:56.730 align:middle line:84% a jogger's thinness peaked by stress, good features. 00:26:56.730 --> 00:27:00.690 align:middle line:84% Flushed, winded, Frank stepped in behind her. 00:27:00.690 --> 00:27:04.620 align:middle line:84% Kramer hadn't seen him since late last winter, six months. 00:27:04.620 --> 00:27:06.720 align:middle line:84% His face was now full, his handsomeness 00:27:06.720 --> 00:27:08.070 align:middle line:90% being swallowed by weight. 00:27:08.070 --> 00:27:13.280 align:middle line:84% He stopped and glanced at each of them. 00:27:13.280 --> 00:27:15.620 align:middle line:84% He peered into the consulting room. 00:27:15.620 --> 00:27:17.480 align:middle line:90% "That you, Catherine?" 00:27:17.480 --> 00:27:21.020 align:middle line:84% He paused, said offhandedly to the room, "This it? 00:27:21.020 --> 00:27:23.150 align:middle line:90% Y'all bringing me in?" 00:27:23.150 --> 00:27:24.560 align:middle line:90% Kramer stepped over to him. 00:27:24.560 --> 00:27:27.110 align:middle line:84% When he took his hand, it was cold and limp. 00:27:27.110 --> 00:27:28.970 align:middle line:90% Frank looked past Kramer. 00:27:28.970 --> 00:27:33.290 align:middle line:84% "Hey, you hadn't heard from Karen lately, right, dude-san?" 00:27:33.290 --> 00:27:35.000 align:middle line:90% "It's a hard one, Frank." 00:27:35.000 --> 00:27:37.548 align:middle line:84% Frank said offhandedly, "Life is like a dick, Kramer. 00:27:37.548 --> 00:27:38.840 align:middle line:90% When it's hard, you get fucked. 00:27:38.840 --> 00:27:41.690 align:middle line:84% When it's soft, you can't beat it." 00:27:41.690 --> 00:27:43.700 align:middle line:90% Barry put his arm around Frank. 00:27:43.700 --> 00:27:46.220 align:middle line:84% Frank said, "What, my big buddy, you 00:27:46.220 --> 00:27:47.900 align:middle line:90% think I owe you money, right? 00:27:47.900 --> 00:27:49.490 align:middle line:84% There's the guy who owes me, slick. 00:27:49.490 --> 00:27:52.160 align:middle line:84% Tell you what, Barry, you collect it directly from Jules. 00:27:52.160 --> 00:27:54.770 align:middle line:84% You won't have to protect your investment. 00:27:54.770 --> 00:27:56.780 align:middle line:90% I'll go take a hike." 00:27:56.780 --> 00:27:59.990 align:middle line:84% Karen held Frank's arm and said, "They all love you and care 00:27:59.990 --> 00:28:00.800 align:middle line:90% about you, Frank. 00:28:00.800 --> 00:28:01.670 align:middle line:90% We all do. 00:28:01.670 --> 00:28:03.730 align:middle line:90% They're just here to help." 00:28:03.730 --> 00:28:06.280 align:middle line:84% "Oh, I know it, honey," Frank said in a fey aside. 00:28:06.280 --> 00:28:08.080 align:middle line:84% He rolled his eyes straight up, sucked 00:28:08.080 --> 00:28:11.140 align:middle line:84% his lips in one of his 10 fag variations. 00:28:11.140 --> 00:28:13.180 align:middle line:84% "We'll all just get in touch with our feelings, 00:28:13.180 --> 00:28:15.310 align:middle line:90% go through it together, right?" 00:28:15.310 --> 00:28:17.980 align:middle line:84% Without thinking, Kramer had backed up a step or two. 00:28:17.980 --> 00:28:19.720 align:middle line:84% He'd seen Frank explode at people 00:28:19.720 --> 00:28:23.170 align:middle line:90% under less trying circumstances. 00:28:23.170 --> 00:28:24.580 align:middle line:90% Frank asked, "Excuse me. 00:28:24.580 --> 00:28:26.860 align:middle line:84% Did I say hello to you yet, Jules?" 00:28:26.860 --> 00:28:29.590 align:middle line:84% "Sure, Frank," Jules smiled indulgently. 00:28:29.590 --> 00:28:30.610 align:middle line:90% "No, I didn't. 00:28:30.610 --> 00:28:32.320 align:middle line:90% Good afternoon, Jules." 00:28:32.320 --> 00:28:33.640 align:middle line:90% Jules didn't say any more. 00:28:33.640 --> 00:28:36.970 align:middle line:84% Frank said, "Guess he's not talking to me." 00:28:36.970 --> 00:28:40.150 align:middle line:84% Germaine Blumenthal came to the door with Catherine. 00:28:40.150 --> 00:28:44.320 align:middle line:84% Frank said, "You girls want me to amble on in, that it?" 00:28:44.320 --> 00:28:49.170 align:middle line:84% As yet, Kramer couldn't tell what Frank was going to do. 00:28:49.170 --> 00:28:53.345 align:middle line:90% Karen said, "Come on, Frank." 00:28:53.345 --> 00:28:55.220 align:middle line:84% "I thought we were meeting someone for lunch. 00:28:55.220 --> 00:28:57.090 align:middle line:90% I'm starved." 00:28:57.090 --> 00:29:00.090 align:middle line:84% Karen said quietly, "It's over, Frank, and you know it. 00:29:00.090 --> 00:29:00.870 align:middle line:90% Please come. 00:29:00.870 --> 00:29:01.650 align:middle line:90% We love you. 00:29:01.650 --> 00:29:02.980 align:middle line:90% We care about you. 00:29:02.980 --> 00:29:05.010 align:middle line:84% You don't have to keep it up any longer. 00:29:05.010 --> 00:29:06.510 align:middle line:90% Just let it go. 00:29:06.510 --> 00:29:09.270 align:middle line:90% Trust us, it will be all right." 00:29:09.270 --> 00:29:13.230 align:middle line:84% Frank said, "Karen told a little fibby about lunchtime. 00:29:13.230 --> 00:29:15.330 align:middle line:90% Anyone want to go for lunch?" 00:29:15.330 --> 00:29:16.980 align:middle line:90% Barry said, "After." 00:29:16.980 --> 00:29:18.270 align:middle line:90% "Kramer?" 00:29:18.270 --> 00:29:19.050 align:middle line:90% "After." 00:29:19.050 --> 00:29:20.040 align:middle line:90% "Jules?" 00:29:20.040 --> 00:29:22.930 align:middle line:84% "I'll take everyone to lunch after." 00:29:22.930 --> 00:29:23.805 align:middle line:90% "That'll be a first." 00:29:23.805 --> 00:29:26.340 align:middle line:90% 00:29:26.340 --> 00:29:28.560 align:middle line:84% Jules put his hand gently on Frank's shoulder, 00:29:28.560 --> 00:29:31.110 align:middle line:84% said quietly, "I've been there, Frank. 00:29:31.110 --> 00:29:32.700 align:middle line:90% It'll be OK." 00:29:32.700 --> 00:29:34.620 align:middle line:90% Frank remained motionless. 00:29:34.620 --> 00:29:37.900 align:middle line:84% Karen said, "Come in, Frank, and we'll have a life. 00:29:37.900 --> 00:29:40.080 align:middle line:84% Go out into the street now, and stay there. 00:29:40.080 --> 00:29:41.070 align:middle line:90% Don't come home. 00:29:41.070 --> 00:29:43.070 align:middle line:90% That's it." 00:29:43.070 --> 00:29:45.680 align:middle line:84% "Oh," Frank said, "that's a good one, honey. 00:29:45.680 --> 00:29:47.100 align:middle line:90% Guess I'd better play along. 00:29:47.100 --> 00:29:49.520 align:middle line:90% What do you think, Kramer? 00:29:49.520 --> 00:29:51.890 align:middle line:84% Kramer leave Junie and the baby and come all the way 00:29:51.890 --> 00:29:52.910 align:middle line:90% up here to do this. 00:29:52.910 --> 00:29:55.160 align:middle line:90% I better be good." 00:29:55.160 --> 00:29:56.570 align:middle line:90% Karen went ahead. 00:29:56.570 --> 00:29:59.330 align:middle line:84% As they walked in, Frank looked Germaine over and, leaning 00:29:59.330 --> 00:30:01.820 align:middle line:84% back, said softly to Kramer, "Hm, 00:30:01.820 --> 00:30:03.980 align:middle line:90% there's some styrene, dude." 00:30:03.980 --> 00:30:06.110 align:middle line:84% In spite of himself, Kramer laughed. 00:30:06.110 --> 00:30:07.550 align:middle line:90% Karen gave him a hard look. 00:30:07.550 --> 00:30:10.560 align:middle line:84% Frank said, "Uh-oh, you're in honey-pooh's doggy house now, 00:30:10.560 --> 00:30:11.060 align:middle line:90% Stevie." 00:30:11.060 --> 00:30:15.230 align:middle line:90% 00:30:15.230 --> 00:30:17.750 align:middle line:84% Catherine tried to hug Frank, but he kept his arms 00:30:17.750 --> 00:30:18.560 align:middle line:90% at his side. 00:30:18.560 --> 00:30:22.160 align:middle line:84% He surveyed the circle of chairs. 00:30:22.160 --> 00:30:26.060 align:middle line:84% "Oh my, pick just any place," again in one of his fag voices. 00:30:26.060 --> 00:30:26.640 align:middle line:90% He sat. 00:30:26.640 --> 00:30:28.400 align:middle line:90% Karen sat beside him. 00:30:28.400 --> 00:30:30.920 align:middle line:84% In another moment, Germaine Blumenthal 00:30:30.920 --> 00:30:35.900 align:middle line:84% had closed the outer and inner doors, and everyone was seated. 00:30:35.900 --> 00:30:38.330 align:middle line:84% She introduced herself and made a short statement 00:30:38.330 --> 00:30:40.880 align:middle line:84% laying out the ground rules of the intervention. 00:30:40.880 --> 00:30:44.120 align:middle line:84% Everything was to be said in a caring way. 00:30:44.120 --> 00:30:46.130 align:middle line:84% There was to be no vindictiveness. 00:30:46.130 --> 00:30:48.770 align:middle line:84% She told Frank that all these people were here because they 00:30:48.770 --> 00:30:51.470 align:middle line:90% were concerned for him. 00:30:51.470 --> 00:30:54.860 align:middle line:84% Still in his leather jacket, Frank sat pale and motionless. 00:30:54.860 --> 00:30:56.600 align:middle line:84% Karen had tried to take his hand, 00:30:56.600 --> 00:30:59.180 align:middle line:84% but he kept his hands in his jacket pockets. 00:30:59.180 --> 00:31:00.770 align:middle line:90% His face was unreadable. 00:31:00.770 --> 00:31:04.520 align:middle line:84% Germaine said, "Do you why we're here today, Frank?" 00:31:04.520 --> 00:31:06.050 align:middle line:90% Frank said, "You talk. 00:31:06.050 --> 00:31:07.220 align:middle line:90% I'll listen." 00:31:07.220 --> 00:31:10.040 align:middle line:84% Germaine said, "Fine, I hope you will. 00:31:10.040 --> 00:31:12.680 align:middle line:84% I'd like to start by getting people's impressions of what 00:31:12.680 --> 00:31:15.740 align:middle line:90% they see happening to you." 00:31:15.740 --> 00:31:18.910 align:middle line:84% She paused and looked around the circle. 00:31:18.910 --> 00:31:20.580 align:middle line:90% No one said anything. 00:31:20.580 --> 00:31:22.860 align:middle line:84% Then Karen made a long, determined statement 00:31:22.860 --> 00:31:26.700 align:middle line:84% about why she called the intervention, with an account 00:31:26.700 --> 00:31:29.130 align:middle line:90% of Frank's behavior. 00:31:29.130 --> 00:31:30.960 align:middle line:84% Frank didn't say a word, which seemed 00:31:30.960 --> 00:31:33.690 align:middle line:84% incredible to Kramer to have Karen go on like this 00:31:33.690 --> 00:31:35.820 align:middle line:84% and not to hear the echo of Frank's mocking, 00:31:35.820 --> 00:31:38.040 align:middle line:90% wisecracks, and mimicry. 00:31:38.040 --> 00:31:40.380 align:middle line:84% When she was finished, Catherine gave her account, 00:31:40.380 --> 00:31:43.850 align:middle line:90% variations on Karen's themes. 00:31:43.850 --> 00:31:48.090 align:middle line:84% Jules went on to say that Frank was a special friend of his. 00:31:48.090 --> 00:31:50.730 align:middle line:84% As an investigator, Frank could do amazing things 00:31:50.730 --> 00:31:52.350 align:middle line:90% with people and situations. 00:31:52.350 --> 00:31:54.360 align:middle line:84% And he'd say now in front of everyone, 00:31:54.360 --> 00:31:56.790 align:middle line:84% Frank had made many of his cases. 00:31:56.790 --> 00:31:58.290 align:middle line:84% But though Jules recognized there 00:31:58.290 --> 00:32:00.240 align:middle line:84% was a lot of stress in what Frank did-- 00:32:00.240 --> 00:32:02.460 align:middle line:84% the people, the hours, the deadlines-- 00:32:02.460 --> 00:32:04.740 align:middle line:84% he still thought Frank went too far-- fights 00:32:04.740 --> 00:32:07.890 align:middle line:84% over money, unpredictable and inappropriate behavior. 00:32:07.890 --> 00:32:11.100 align:middle line:84% Specific incidents were brought up. 00:32:11.100 --> 00:32:13.050 align:middle line:84% Barry echoed Jules in his statement. 00:32:13.050 --> 00:32:14.687 align:middle line:84% When it was Kramer's turn, he said 00:32:14.687 --> 00:32:16.770 align:middle line:84% that he thought Frank could be difficult at times. 00:32:16.770 --> 00:32:19.317 align:middle line:84% He'd never liked his 3:00 AM phone calls, 00:32:19.317 --> 00:32:21.150 align:middle line:84% the little money games, but that he'd always 00:32:21.150 --> 00:32:25.890 align:middle line:84% have the greatest of respect for his ingenuity and talents. 00:32:25.890 --> 00:32:28.540 align:middle line:84% They had a lot of good times together. 00:32:28.540 --> 00:32:31.990 align:middle line:84% Frank listened to each with almost no expression. 00:32:31.990 --> 00:32:33.670 align:middle line:84% When Kramer checked his watch, he 00:32:33.670 --> 00:32:37.560 align:middle line:84% was surprised to see that an hour had gone by. 00:32:37.560 --> 00:32:40.140 align:middle line:84% Now Frank's cynical and desensitized language 00:32:40.140 --> 00:32:43.320 align:middle line:84% was being taken to task by Catherine and Karen and Barry-- 00:32:43.320 --> 00:32:47.250 align:middle line:84% niggers, spics, beaners, gooks, pussies, styrene, you name it. 00:32:47.250 --> 00:32:49.350 align:middle line:84% Frank was educated and well-read. 00:32:49.350 --> 00:32:51.780 align:middle line:84% He was also very feeling and generous. 00:32:51.780 --> 00:32:53.573 align:middle line:84% And as he'd gone on talking like that, 00:32:53.573 --> 00:32:54.990 align:middle line:84% they assumed it was Frank's trying 00:32:54.990 --> 00:32:57.730 align:middle line:84% to protect himself from people he was dealing with. 00:32:57.730 --> 00:33:00.840 align:middle line:84% But now, it just seemed that Frank had become brutalized. 00:33:00.840 --> 00:33:02.370 align:middle line:84% Kramer thought they were misreading 00:33:02.370 --> 00:33:05.460 align:middle line:84% Frank's peculiar sense of satire and provocation, 00:33:05.460 --> 00:33:07.350 align:middle line:90% but said nothing. 00:33:07.350 --> 00:33:10.350 align:middle line:84% Then Germaine Blumenthal asked them to read their letters, 00:33:10.350 --> 00:33:13.660 align:middle line:84% what each cared for about Frank, and what 00:33:13.660 --> 00:33:15.700 align:middle line:84% each would do if Frank didn't stop abusing 00:33:15.700 --> 00:33:17.500 align:middle line:90% and change his behavior. 00:33:17.500 --> 00:33:19.150 align:middle line:84% In one way or another, each praised 00:33:19.150 --> 00:33:22.450 align:middle line:84% Frank for his humor, his energy, and resourcefulness. 00:33:22.450 --> 00:33:24.670 align:middle line:84% Each said, change, and we'll be there. 00:33:24.670 --> 00:33:27.460 align:middle line:84% But keep on as you are, and we're through with you. 00:33:27.460 --> 00:33:28.390 align:middle line:90% Don't call. 00:33:28.390 --> 00:33:29.320 align:middle line:90% We'll hang up. 00:33:29.320 --> 00:33:30.220 align:middle line:90% Don't come home. 00:33:30.220 --> 00:33:32.277 align:middle line:90% We'll change the locks. 00:33:32.277 --> 00:33:34.360 align:middle line:84% When it came to Kramer, though he felt the group's 00:33:34.360 --> 00:33:36.040 align:middle line:84% disapproval, he couldn't bring himself 00:33:36.040 --> 00:33:38.380 align:middle line:90% to give Frank an ultimatum. 00:33:38.380 --> 00:33:41.110 align:middle line:84% When Kramer looked up, Frank was sitting motionless, 00:33:41.110 --> 00:33:43.870 align:middle line:84% but tears were streaming down his cheeks. 00:33:43.870 --> 00:33:45.610 align:middle line:84% In all of their years of friendship, 00:33:45.610 --> 00:33:47.740 align:middle line:84% Kramer had never seen him like this. 00:33:47.740 --> 00:33:49.030 align:middle line:90% It was as if Frank-- 00:33:49.030 --> 00:33:53.340 align:middle line:84% with his endless motion, his unpredictability, and temper-- 00:33:53.340 --> 00:33:56.410 align:middle line:84% had lived his life to avoid this moment. 00:33:56.410 --> 00:33:58.720 align:middle line:90% Kramer looked at the floor. 00:33:58.720 --> 00:34:01.390 align:middle line:84% Now the question of the detox center was raised. 00:34:01.390 --> 00:34:03.820 align:middle line:84% Karen described the location and program-- 00:34:03.820 --> 00:34:06.400 align:middle line:84% what about it, would Frank consider going, 30 days, 00:34:06.400 --> 00:34:07.600 align:middle line:90% inpatient. 00:34:07.600 --> 00:34:10.810 align:middle line:84% Frank wiped his cheeks and said quietly, "Where's 00:34:10.810 --> 00:34:12.610 align:middle line:90% the money coming from?" 00:34:12.610 --> 00:34:14.350 align:middle line:84% Karen said, "The money's not a question. 00:34:14.350 --> 00:34:15.790 align:middle line:90% It will be covered." 00:34:15.790 --> 00:34:17.320 align:middle line:84% "Hey, you know, I got a business. 00:34:17.320 --> 00:34:19.179 align:middle line:84% 24 cases open now, and I'm supposed 00:34:19.179 --> 00:34:22.179 align:middle line:84% to meet a defendant in San Bruno at 4:00." 00:34:22.179 --> 00:34:24.580 align:middle line:84% Karen said, "Frank, it's been thought out. 00:34:24.580 --> 00:34:26.170 align:middle line:90% We'll take care of everything. 00:34:26.170 --> 00:34:29.080 align:middle line:84% We'll contact lawyers, refer your cases. 00:34:29.080 --> 00:34:31.449 align:middle line:84% Barry can keep things going until you get back. 00:34:31.449 --> 00:34:36.010 align:middle line:84% I'll pay your bills, take care of the paperwork." 00:34:36.010 --> 00:34:38.110 align:middle line:84% Karen had her hand on Frank's arm. 00:34:38.110 --> 00:34:41.090 align:middle line:90% She watched his face. 00:34:41.090 --> 00:34:43.040 align:middle line:84% Frank took a breath and wiped his cheek. 00:34:43.040 --> 00:34:47.600 align:middle line:84% He said, "You're saying give you the keys to my office?" 00:34:47.600 --> 00:34:49.850 align:middle line:84% Karen said, "I'll take care of things." 00:34:49.850 --> 00:34:51.650 align:middle line:84% Frank said to the group, "I don't 00:34:51.650 --> 00:34:54.800 align:middle line:84% trust Karen to have the keys to my business." 00:34:54.800 --> 00:34:56.870 align:middle line:84% Karen said, "Frank, I know there have 00:34:56.870 --> 00:34:59.480 align:middle line:84% been terrible things between us, but we're letting them go. 00:34:59.480 --> 00:35:00.920 align:middle line:90% You can trust me. 00:35:00.920 --> 00:35:02.330 align:middle line:90% I won't go into your files. 00:35:02.330 --> 00:35:03.350 align:middle line:90% I'll pay your bills. 00:35:03.350 --> 00:35:05.540 align:middle line:84% Barry and I will collect your messages. 00:35:05.540 --> 00:35:06.450 align:middle line:90% That will be it. 00:35:06.450 --> 00:35:08.120 align:middle line:84% I know how hard it is for you to trust. 00:35:08.120 --> 00:35:09.080 align:middle line:90% I understand. 00:35:09.080 --> 00:35:11.690 align:middle line:90% We understand, but it's OK now. 00:35:11.690 --> 00:35:15.000 align:middle line:90% It's time for us to move on." 00:35:15.000 --> 00:35:16.290 align:middle line:90% Frank was silent. 00:35:16.290 --> 00:35:18.930 align:middle line:84% He looked slowly around the circle of faces. 00:35:18.930 --> 00:35:20.790 align:middle line:84% When Frank looked at him, Kramer didn't 00:35:20.790 --> 00:35:22.680 align:middle line:90% know what his face showed. 00:35:22.680 --> 00:35:25.650 align:middle line:84% After a long time, Frank reached into his pocket 00:35:25.650 --> 00:35:27.930 align:middle line:84% and pulled out a large ring of keys. 00:35:27.930 --> 00:35:29.220 align:middle line:90% He looked at Karen. 00:35:29.220 --> 00:35:30.960 align:middle line:90% She returned his gaze. 00:35:30.960 --> 00:35:32.790 align:middle line:90% He gave her the keys. 00:35:32.790 --> 00:35:35.430 align:middle line:90% Everyone shifted, relaxed. 00:35:35.430 --> 00:35:38.190 align:middle line:84% Several more minutes were spent discussing details. 00:35:38.190 --> 00:35:40.060 align:middle line:84% A flight was leaving in three hours. 00:35:40.060 --> 00:35:42.060 align:middle line:84% Karen would call the people at the detox center, 00:35:42.060 --> 00:35:43.740 align:middle line:84% have them waiting at the other end. 00:35:43.740 --> 00:35:45.870 align:middle line:84% That left time for Frank to go to his office 00:35:45.870 --> 00:35:48.190 align:middle line:84% with Barry and Jules and pull things together. 00:35:48.190 --> 00:35:50.820 align:middle line:84% Frank said, "Hey, do I go naked?" 00:35:50.820 --> 00:35:53.730 align:middle line:84% Karen said his bag was already packed and in the trunk. 00:35:53.730 --> 00:35:56.040 align:middle line:84% Frank said laconically, "Honey-pooh has thought 00:35:56.040 --> 00:35:57.810 align:middle line:90% of everything." 00:35:57.810 --> 00:36:00.480 align:middle line:84% Within another moment, Karen stood, thanked each of them 00:36:00.480 --> 00:36:03.450 align:middle line:84% for coming, and crossed to Germaine. 00:36:03.450 --> 00:36:04.770 align:middle line:90% They hugged each other. 00:36:04.770 --> 00:36:07.410 align:middle line:84% Frank, without much inspiration, sucked his lips 00:36:07.410 --> 00:36:08.490 align:middle line:90% and rolled his eyes. 00:36:08.490 --> 00:36:10.500 align:middle line:90% "Sisterhood, you know?" 00:36:10.500 --> 00:36:13.500 align:middle line:84% Kramer saw her write a check for $250. 00:36:13.500 --> 00:36:16.980 align:middle line:84% Frank said, "Not a bad hustle for two hours, Doctor. 00:36:16.980 --> 00:36:18.030 align:middle line:90% Let's talk some time. 00:36:18.030 --> 00:36:18.750 align:middle line:90% Hey, I'm starved. 00:36:18.750 --> 00:36:20.580 align:middle line:90% Do I get to eat now?" 00:36:20.580 --> 00:36:23.880 align:middle line:84% As Jules and Frank went out, Karen grabbed Barry's arm. 00:36:23.880 --> 00:36:26.220 align:middle line:84% "Once he hits the street, he may try to slip away. 00:36:26.220 --> 00:36:28.530 align:middle line:84% Whatever you do, don't let him out of your sight, 00:36:28.530 --> 00:36:30.160 align:middle line:90% not even to go to the bathroom. 00:36:30.160 --> 00:36:32.760 align:middle line:84% It's not over until we've actually put him on the plane. 00:36:32.760 --> 00:36:35.670 align:middle line:84% Have him at the Continental counter at 4:30." 00:36:35.670 --> 00:36:37.680 align:middle line:84% Barry nodded and took off down the stairs 00:36:37.680 --> 00:36:40.740 align:middle line:84% after Frank and Jules, whose voices were already 00:36:40.740 --> 00:36:41.625 align:middle line:90% fading in the street. 00:36:41.625 --> 00:36:44.860 align:middle line:90% 00:36:44.860 --> 00:36:47.080 align:middle line:84% Kramer was almost surprised, perhaps even 00:36:47.080 --> 00:36:49.060 align:middle line:84% a little disappointed, to see Frank walking 00:36:49.060 --> 00:36:51.880 align:middle line:84% toward Continental at 4:30 with Barry and Jules 00:36:51.880 --> 00:36:53.170 align:middle line:90% on either side of him. 00:36:53.170 --> 00:36:54.790 align:middle line:90% Barry shook his head. 00:36:54.790 --> 00:36:56.890 align:middle line:84% Knowing that Jules and Barry were staying on him, 00:36:56.890 --> 00:36:59.290 align:middle line:84% Frank, of course, had been leading them all over. 00:36:59.290 --> 00:37:01.960 align:middle line:84% Frank said, "Kramer, I've got to talk with you a minute." 00:37:01.960 --> 00:37:03.700 align:middle line:90% He walked out into the crowd. 00:37:03.700 --> 00:37:05.080 align:middle line:90% Kramer ran after him. 00:37:05.080 --> 00:37:07.180 align:middle line:90% Frank said, "Relax, Stevie. 00:37:07.180 --> 00:37:10.300 align:middle line:84% I'm not going to bolt, much as Karen has set you 00:37:10.300 --> 00:37:11.740 align:middle line:90% up to think I will." 00:37:11.740 --> 00:37:13.250 align:middle line:90% He stopped in front of a bar. 00:37:13.250 --> 00:37:14.750 align:middle line:84% "And I'm not going to sneak a drink. 00:37:14.750 --> 00:37:16.240 align:middle line:90% I'm just going to go have one. 00:37:16.240 --> 00:37:18.580 align:middle line:84% And, yeah, I had some blow at the office." 00:37:18.580 --> 00:37:21.640 align:middle line:84% They sat down at the bar, and Frank ordered a double vodka 00:37:21.640 --> 00:37:22.510 align:middle line:90% martini-- 00:37:22.510 --> 00:37:24.220 align:middle line:90% Kramer, a tonic. 00:37:24.220 --> 00:37:27.385 align:middle line:84% Then Frank turned to Kramer and said, 00:37:27.385 --> 00:37:29.260 align:middle line:84% "I won't say whether this was right or wrong, 00:37:29.260 --> 00:37:30.730 align:middle line:90% but thanks for coming today. 00:37:30.730 --> 00:37:32.320 align:middle line:84% That's twice in the last six months 00:37:32.320 --> 00:37:34.060 align:middle line:90% when I won't forget my friends. 00:37:34.060 --> 00:37:35.410 align:middle line:90% Here's my side. 00:37:35.410 --> 00:37:37.000 align:middle line:84% I've been drinking and doing shit. 00:37:37.000 --> 00:37:39.940 align:middle line:84% I won't deny it, but I'm also exhausted and overworked. 00:37:39.940 --> 00:37:42.610 align:middle line:84% You try investigating 11 murders gone to trial 00:37:42.610 --> 00:37:44.950 align:middle line:84% with Barry, who has compunctions about doing 00:37:44.950 --> 00:37:47.260 align:middle line:84% certain things, in the last eight months, 00:37:47.260 --> 00:37:50.080 align:middle line:84% while you keep the rest of your cases going, don't get paid. 00:37:50.080 --> 00:37:52.510 align:middle line:84% Hey, you remember the scratch I lost last winter." 00:37:52.510 --> 00:37:53.570 align:middle line:90% Kramer nodded. 00:37:53.570 --> 00:37:56.170 align:middle line:84% "You know what it is, out all hours of the day and night. 00:37:56.170 --> 00:37:58.300 align:middle line:84% Karen has always been suspicious of that. 00:37:58.300 --> 00:37:59.672 align:middle line:90% Is what it is, dude-san. 00:37:59.672 --> 00:38:01.630 align:middle line:84% I could tell you some stories about Karen-pooh, 00:38:01.630 --> 00:38:03.970 align:middle line:84% but love and trust are the order of the day here. 00:38:03.970 --> 00:38:06.100 align:middle line:84% Hey, if you guys want to bail me out for a while, 00:38:06.100 --> 00:38:08.020 align:middle line:90% I welcome this chance to rest. 00:38:08.020 --> 00:38:11.380 align:middle line:84% More than anything, that's what I need-- rest." 00:38:11.380 --> 00:38:13.300 align:middle line:84% From the moment Frank began to speak, 00:38:13.300 --> 00:38:15.430 align:middle line:84% Kramer had the overwhelming feeling 00:38:15.430 --> 00:38:17.540 align:middle line:84% that there was really nothing wrong with him. 00:38:17.540 --> 00:38:18.350 align:middle line:90% He worked hard. 00:38:18.350 --> 00:38:21.710 align:middle line:84% He drank and did some coke, so did a lot of people. 00:38:21.710 --> 00:38:24.670 align:middle line:84% "I'll tell you, I'm flat broke, not even pocket money." 00:38:24.670 --> 00:38:28.750 align:middle line:84% Frank took out his wallet and put two 50's on the bar. 00:38:28.750 --> 00:38:31.030 align:middle line:84% "Jules gave me a couple of Ben Franklins for my trip 00:38:31.030 --> 00:38:32.020 align:middle line:90% to the gulag. 00:38:32.020 --> 00:38:34.480 align:middle line:84% What are you going to give me, Kramer?" 00:38:34.480 --> 00:38:36.370 align:middle line:84% Kramer said, "Nothing, I've already 00:38:36.370 --> 00:38:39.640 align:middle line:90% come all this way for you." 00:38:39.640 --> 00:38:42.700 align:middle line:84% After some cajoling, Kramer gave Frank a 20. 00:38:42.700 --> 00:38:45.520 align:middle line:84% And then after more kidding, Kramer, shaking his head, 00:38:45.520 --> 00:38:48.980 align:middle line:90% gave Frank one more 20. 00:38:48.980 --> 00:38:50.930 align:middle line:84% At the gate, everyone hugged Frank. 00:38:50.930 --> 00:38:52.760 align:middle line:90% Frank's face was expressionless. 00:38:52.760 --> 00:38:55.070 align:middle line:84% Karen led him off to one side, her arm around him, 00:38:55.070 --> 00:38:58.640 align:middle line:84% and they stood by the window talking softly, faces together. 00:38:58.640 --> 00:39:01.370 align:middle line:84% And then Karen gave Frank a tender kiss. 00:39:01.370 --> 00:39:02.510 align:middle line:90% Kramer could hear her. 00:39:02.510 --> 00:39:06.050 align:middle line:90% "I'll be here for you, Frank." 00:39:06.050 --> 00:39:09.980 align:middle line:84% And Kramer could see that Frank was again crying. 00:39:09.980 --> 00:39:12.350 align:middle line:84% With a stewardess on one side and Karen on the other, 00:39:12.350 --> 00:39:14.990 align:middle line:84% dwarfed by his shoulders, they walked him down the tunnel 00:39:14.990 --> 00:39:16.430 align:middle line:90% and onto the plane. 00:39:16.430 --> 00:39:19.220 align:middle line:84% A few minutes later, Karen came back alone. 00:39:19.220 --> 00:39:21.845 align:middle line:84% She remained apart from Barry and Jules and Kramer 00:39:21.845 --> 00:39:23.780 align:middle line:90% as the plane was pulled away. 00:39:23.780 --> 00:39:25.790 align:middle line:84% Catherine, too, stood by herself. 00:39:25.790 --> 00:39:26.900 align:middle line:90% No one left. 00:39:26.900 --> 00:39:30.050 align:middle line:84% They watched the plane work its way into the ground traffic. 00:39:30.050 --> 00:39:33.590 align:middle line:84% Barry said, "He took me aside, and I swear he almost 00:39:33.590 --> 00:39:35.000 align:middle line:90% had me convinced he was OK. 00:39:35.000 --> 00:39:37.850 align:middle line:84% And that it was just everyone sticking it to him." 00:39:37.850 --> 00:39:38.690 align:middle line:90% Kramer nodded. 00:39:38.690 --> 00:39:39.620 align:middle line:90% He saw it clearly. 00:39:39.620 --> 00:39:41.750 align:middle line:84% That's what had been going on in the bar. 00:39:41.750 --> 00:39:45.950 align:middle line:84% As an afterthought, Kramer said to Jules, "You gave him $100." 00:39:45.950 --> 00:39:47.150 align:middle line:90% "Who?" 00:39:47.150 --> 00:39:49.400 align:middle line:84% "You, Frank showed me the two 50's." 00:39:49.400 --> 00:39:51.950 align:middle line:84% The continental jet wheeled into position on the runway 00:39:51.950 --> 00:39:54.080 align:middle line:84% and started to wind up its engines. 00:39:54.080 --> 00:39:55.510 align:middle line:90% Jules dugout his wallet. 00:39:55.510 --> 00:39:58.010 align:middle line:84% "Jesus, I had my wallet on the table for a couple of minutes 00:39:58.010 --> 00:39:59.765 align:middle line:90% in the restaurant. 00:39:59.765 --> 00:40:02.180 align:middle line:90% He must have taken the money." 00:40:02.180 --> 00:40:05.390 align:middle line:84% The plane went down the runway and lifted into the low fog. 00:40:05.390 --> 00:40:07.820 align:middle line:84% Kramer said, "He showed me the 50's, shamed me 00:40:07.820 --> 00:40:12.200 align:middle line:84% into giving him $40, and I felt bad for not giving him more." 00:40:12.200 --> 00:40:14.450 align:middle line:84% They looked at each other and broke out laughing. 00:40:14.450 --> 00:40:18.230 align:middle line:84% Overhead lights blinking, the plane banked into the twilight. 00:40:18.230 --> 00:40:20.600 align:middle line:84% As they turned and started to drift through the airport, 00:40:20.600 --> 00:40:23.180 align:middle line:84% Kramer, despite an uneasiness, had the feeling 00:40:23.180 --> 00:40:29.690 align:middle line:84% that the intervention had been the right thing to do. 00:40:29.690 --> 00:40:31.460 align:middle line:84% For the next 10 days, Frank called 00:40:31.460 --> 00:40:33.590 align:middle line:84% to talk with Kramer from the gulag. 00:40:33.590 --> 00:40:35.480 align:middle line:84% He thanked Kramer for trying to help him 00:40:35.480 --> 00:40:37.550 align:middle line:84% and said that, more than anything, what he really 00:40:37.550 --> 00:40:41.270 align:middle line:84% had needed was sleep and a sensible diet. 00:40:41.270 --> 00:40:43.460 align:middle line:84% He said that it was a very special and loving thing 00:40:43.460 --> 00:40:46.140 align:middle line:84% that Karen had done, the intervention, 00:40:46.140 --> 00:40:48.200 align:middle line:84% and that he would always be thankful to her. 00:40:48.200 --> 00:40:51.110 align:middle line:84% When he got home, they'd have a life. 00:40:51.110 --> 00:40:52.340 align:middle line:90% Then a letter arrived-- 00:40:52.340 --> 00:40:56.540 align:middle line:84% Frank's handwriting, three sheets of yellow legal paper. 00:40:56.540 --> 00:40:57.770 align:middle line:90% Frank started right in. 00:40:57.770 --> 00:40:58.940 align:middle line:90% Karen had broken her word. 00:40:58.940 --> 00:41:01.010 align:middle line:84% She had taken the keys, gone into his office, 00:41:01.010 --> 00:41:03.650 align:middle line:84% and rifled everything-- every file, the Rolodex, all 00:41:03.650 --> 00:41:04.910 align:middle line:90% of his drawers and closets. 00:41:04.910 --> 00:41:07.070 align:middle line:84% She'd found letters, names, phone numbers, 00:41:07.070 --> 00:41:08.600 align:middle line:90% what she'd always feared. 00:41:08.600 --> 00:41:10.610 align:middle line:84% She'd already burned a lot of his papers. 00:41:10.610 --> 00:41:12.240 align:middle line:90% She canceled his credit cards. 00:41:12.240 --> 00:41:15.020 align:middle line:84% She called women all over town, cursing and threatening them. 00:41:15.020 --> 00:41:17.000 align:middle line:84% She had called him 10 times last night 00:41:17.000 --> 00:41:19.640 align:middle line:84% threatening to kill him, kill herself. 00:41:19.640 --> 00:41:21.920 align:middle line:84% "The thing is, Kramer, except for Sidra's letters-- 00:41:21.920 --> 00:41:23.968 align:middle line:90% and she knew about Sidra-- 00:41:23.968 --> 00:41:25.760 align:middle line:84% they were just some old girlfriends, things 00:41:25.760 --> 00:41:27.200 align:middle line:90% that were over years ago. 00:41:27.200 --> 00:41:30.680 align:middle line:84% Some even went back before we were married. 00:41:30.680 --> 00:41:32.660 align:middle line:84% She just found what she had to find. 00:41:32.660 --> 00:41:34.880 align:middle line:84% Almost any woman's name was confirmation. 00:41:34.880 --> 00:41:36.470 align:middle line:90% She's totally out of control. 00:41:36.470 --> 00:41:38.780 align:middle line:84% So far, she's threatened several defendants, 00:41:38.780 --> 00:41:40.970 align:middle line:84% the assistant prosecutor of San Jose, 00:41:40.970 --> 00:41:44.150 align:middle line:90% four attorneys, all women." 00:41:44.150 --> 00:41:46.850 align:middle line:84% Frank went on to say, "A lot of bad things had happened. 00:41:46.850 --> 00:41:50.000 align:middle line:84% I won't deny them, but I had sincerely apologized to her. 00:41:50.000 --> 00:41:52.100 align:middle line:90% I took her at her word that day. 00:41:52.100 --> 00:41:55.490 align:middle line:84% Remember, Kramer-- love, trust, we're putting it all behind us? 00:41:55.490 --> 00:41:59.270 align:middle line:84% Well, I have no one to blame but myself. 00:41:59.270 --> 00:42:02.780 align:middle line:90% Trust, and you get fucked." 00:42:02.780 --> 00:42:05.750 align:middle line:84% As an afterthought, he added, almost hopefully, 00:42:05.750 --> 00:42:07.760 align:middle line:84% that maybe Karen had tried to keep her word 00:42:07.760 --> 00:42:09.990 align:middle line:90% but just couldn't help herself. 00:42:09.990 --> 00:42:13.200 align:middle line:84% Kramer talked about it with June. 00:42:13.200 --> 00:42:16.532 align:middle line:84% June handed back the letter and said, "After 10 years, 00:42:16.532 --> 00:42:18.240 align:middle line:84% didn't he know what she was going to do?" 00:42:18.240 --> 00:42:21.190 align:middle line:90% 00:42:21.190 --> 00:42:23.110 align:middle line:84% Three days after he'd finished detox 00:42:23.110 --> 00:42:25.690 align:middle line:84% and reached San Francisco, Frank called Kramer to tell him 00:42:25.690 --> 00:42:28.570 align:middle line:84% he'd come back to find all of Karen's things gone. 00:42:28.570 --> 00:42:30.610 align:middle line:84% She had moved from their duplex on a mission 00:42:30.610 --> 00:42:33.400 align:middle line:84% and taken a place over in Berkeley. 00:42:33.400 --> 00:42:35.950 align:middle line:84% Two hours ago, she had him served with a restraining 00:42:35.950 --> 00:42:38.890 align:middle line:90% order and divorce papers. 00:42:38.890 --> 00:42:41.110 align:middle line:84% On a spring day six months after the intervention, 00:42:41.110 --> 00:42:43.360 align:middle line:84% Kramer had reason to be in San Francisco. 00:42:43.360 --> 00:42:44.590 align:middle line:90% Frank met him at the airport. 00:42:44.590 --> 00:42:47.560 align:middle line:84% And after serving a subpoena out on the avenues, 00:42:47.560 --> 00:42:49.690 align:middle line:90% Frank drove onto Sunset Beach. 00:42:49.690 --> 00:42:51.910 align:middle line:84% There was a strong wind and big surf coming in, 00:42:51.910 --> 00:42:53.860 align:middle line:84% and everything seemed to be shining. 00:42:53.860 --> 00:42:56.230 align:middle line:84% They got out of the car, walking slowly. 00:42:56.230 --> 00:42:58.930 align:middle line:84% As they reached the sand, Kramer said, "So how 00:42:58.930 --> 00:43:00.550 align:middle line:90% are you doing, Frank?" 00:43:00.550 --> 00:43:03.400 align:middle line:84% Frank nodded, "Not bad, I'm staying clean. 00:43:03.400 --> 00:43:05.110 align:middle line:84% I'm up and down, got a lot of cases. 00:43:05.110 --> 00:43:06.520 align:middle line:90% I'm busier than ever. 00:43:06.520 --> 00:43:09.890 align:middle line:84% Clients were really--" [AUDIO OUT] 00:43:09.890 --> 00:43:12.530 align:middle line:84% As they reached the sand, Kramer said, "So how 00:43:12.530 --> 00:43:14.120 align:middle line:90% are you doing, Frank?" 00:43:14.120 --> 00:43:16.970 align:middle line:84% Frank nodded, "Not bad, I'm staying clean. 00:43:16.970 --> 00:43:18.680 align:middle line:84% I'm up and down, got a lot of cases. 00:43:18.680 --> 00:43:20.060 align:middle line:90% I'm busier than ever. 00:43:20.060 --> 00:43:22.790 align:middle line:84% Clients were really understanding about my trip 00:43:22.790 --> 00:43:24.440 align:middle line:90% to the gulag." 00:43:24.440 --> 00:43:26.750 align:middle line:84% After a moment, he said, "Hey, you know, 00:43:26.750 --> 00:43:29.960 align:middle line:84% the fact is, it's hard for me without Karen." 00:43:29.960 --> 00:43:31.040 align:middle line:90% He looked at Kramer. 00:43:31.040 --> 00:43:32.670 align:middle line:90% "I know what you're thinking. 00:43:32.670 --> 00:43:34.820 align:middle line:84% How can he say that after all this shit? 00:43:34.820 --> 00:43:37.670 align:middle line:84% But it was 10 years, and," he shrugged, "you know, whatever 00:43:37.670 --> 00:43:40.810 align:middle line:90% it is, it's your life." 00:43:40.810 --> 00:43:41.800 align:middle line:90% Kramer nodded. 00:43:41.800 --> 00:43:44.475 align:middle line:84% The wind gust had picked up sand, 00:43:44.475 --> 00:43:46.060 align:middle line:90% lashed around their ankles. 00:43:46.060 --> 00:43:48.310 align:middle line:84% They walked toward the water, pants and jackets 00:43:48.310 --> 00:43:50.050 align:middle line:90% whipping, hair standing up. 00:43:50.050 --> 00:43:52.330 align:middle line:84% Frank said, "It's over between us. 00:43:52.330 --> 00:43:52.990 align:middle line:90% I know it. 00:43:52.990 --> 00:43:55.060 align:middle line:90% The divorce is going through. 00:43:55.060 --> 00:43:57.790 align:middle line:84% And she suckered me, man, but I still love Karen, maybe 00:43:57.790 --> 00:43:59.290 align:middle line:90% more than ever." 00:43:59.290 --> 00:44:01.300 align:middle line:90% "You think Karen suckered you?" 00:44:01.300 --> 00:44:04.490 align:middle line:84% Frank nodded, "Oh, hey, listen, slick, no doubt about it. 00:44:04.490 --> 00:44:05.080 align:middle line:90% I don't think. 00:44:05.080 --> 00:44:05.650 align:middle line:90% I know. 00:44:05.650 --> 00:44:07.180 align:middle line:90% Karen suckered me. 00:44:07.180 --> 00:44:08.628 align:middle line:90% She suckered all of us. 00:44:08.628 --> 00:44:10.420 align:middle line:84% I know what you're going to start thinking, 00:44:10.420 --> 00:44:12.850 align:middle line:84% that whatever I say is going to be part of my denial 00:44:12.850 --> 00:44:14.260 align:middle line:90% and all the rest of it." 00:44:14.260 --> 00:44:16.420 align:middle line:84% Frank stopped and turned to Kramer. 00:44:16.420 --> 00:44:18.010 align:middle line:90% "I'll flat-ass say it, Kramer. 00:44:18.010 --> 00:44:19.120 align:middle line:90% I was using, man. 00:44:19.120 --> 00:44:20.030 align:middle line:90% I was drunk. 00:44:20.030 --> 00:44:20.650 align:middle line:90% I was high. 00:44:20.650 --> 00:44:23.350 align:middle line:84% I was over the line, and that was getting 00:44:23.350 --> 00:44:24.700 align:middle line:90% to be a little problem." 00:44:24.700 --> 00:44:26.990 align:middle line:84% Frank turned and faced the water. 00:44:26.990 --> 00:44:29.740 align:middle line:84% "But what Karen did with that opportunity--" 00:44:29.740 --> 00:44:31.420 align:middle line:90% Frank shook his head. 00:44:31.420 --> 00:44:34.390 align:middle line:84% "Look, when I walked into that intervention, 00:44:34.390 --> 00:44:36.380 align:middle line:90% I didn't have a clue. 00:44:36.380 --> 00:44:39.970 align:middle line:84% I make my living by reading people-- defendants, witnesses, 00:44:39.970 --> 00:44:41.830 align:middle line:84% figuring out when they're lying, when 00:44:41.830 --> 00:44:44.170 align:middle line:84% they're telling the truth, what they're up to. 00:44:44.170 --> 00:44:47.340 align:middle line:90% I never saw it coming. 00:44:47.340 --> 00:44:49.860 align:middle line:84% She's doing this to save my life, right? 00:44:49.860 --> 00:44:51.060 align:middle line:90% That's what she tells me. 00:44:51.060 --> 00:44:53.010 align:middle line:84% You, Barry, Jules, everyone buys it. 00:44:53.010 --> 00:44:53.640 align:middle line:90% You buy. 00:44:53.640 --> 00:44:54.660 align:middle line:90% I buy. 00:44:54.660 --> 00:44:56.460 align:middle line:84% She gets $1,000 out of each of you, 00:44:56.460 --> 00:44:58.530 align:middle line:84% puts me another $10,000 in debt, tells me 00:44:58.530 --> 00:45:01.110 align:middle line:84% it's going to be love and trust from now on. 00:45:01.110 --> 00:45:03.315 align:middle line:90% I'm knocked off balance. 00:45:03.315 --> 00:45:05.100 align:middle line:90% I still have big reservations. 00:45:05.100 --> 00:45:06.900 align:middle line:90% I'm not dumb, but I go along. 00:45:06.900 --> 00:45:08.970 align:middle line:84% I give her the keys to my office. 00:45:08.970 --> 00:45:12.750 align:middle line:90% Everything will be OK, honey." 00:45:12.750 --> 00:45:15.180 align:middle line:84% Kramer thought that Frank was obsessing, 00:45:15.180 --> 00:45:18.090 align:middle line:84% but just decided to let him get it out of his system. 00:45:18.090 --> 00:45:19.830 align:middle line:84% "Hey, that's what she wanted, slick. 00:45:19.830 --> 00:45:21.180 align:middle line:90% She wanted that key. 00:45:21.180 --> 00:45:26.250 align:middle line:84% That's what it was about, or that's what I thought. 00:45:26.250 --> 00:45:27.900 align:middle line:90% Once she had that key-- 00:45:27.900 --> 00:45:29.850 align:middle line:90% well, I wrote you about it-- 00:45:29.850 --> 00:45:33.330 align:middle line:84% she thought I was fucking every woman in the Rolodex." 00:45:33.330 --> 00:45:35.280 align:middle line:90% Frank turned suddenly. 00:45:35.280 --> 00:45:37.920 align:middle line:84% "Kramer, I don't know if I'm getting through to you. 00:45:37.920 --> 00:45:40.110 align:middle line:84% I thought she left because of what she 00:45:40.110 --> 00:45:42.420 align:middle line:90% thought she found in my office. 00:45:42.420 --> 00:45:44.580 align:middle line:84% When I got back, I drove over to Berkeley 00:45:44.580 --> 00:45:46.260 align:middle line:90% to see where she was living. 00:45:46.260 --> 00:45:48.750 align:middle line:84% There were a few cars in front of her duplex. 00:45:48.750 --> 00:45:52.260 align:middle line:84% I get the license plates and run them through the DMV-- 00:45:52.260 --> 00:45:55.920 align:middle line:84% get some names, social security numbers, routine stuff. 00:45:55.920 --> 00:45:58.800 align:middle line:84% I started making calls to banks, following checks, this 00:45:58.800 --> 00:46:00.800 align:middle line:90% and that." 00:46:00.800 --> 00:46:02.910 align:middle line:84% They watched a container ship clear the point 00:46:02.910 --> 00:46:07.490 align:middle line:84% and bury her bow in a big sea, throw a sheet of white water. 00:46:07.490 --> 00:46:09.710 align:middle line:84% "When I put it all together, what it tells me, 00:46:09.710 --> 00:46:12.530 align:middle line:84% slick, is that Karen had this lover, Brad Moreno, 00:46:12.530 --> 00:46:14.630 align:middle line:84% back before I got into it with Sidra. 00:46:14.630 --> 00:46:16.640 align:middle line:90% And that's its own thing. 00:46:16.640 --> 00:46:18.950 align:middle line:84% But the real point here, my man, is 00:46:18.950 --> 00:46:20.510 align:middle line:84% when I pulled up these accounts, I 00:46:20.510 --> 00:46:23.930 align:middle line:84% see that she's made a check out to Moreno for $400-- 00:46:23.930 --> 00:46:26.120 align:middle line:90% half his rent. 00:46:26.120 --> 00:46:27.920 align:middle line:90% The check says it, rent. 00:46:27.920 --> 00:46:29.750 align:middle line:90% It's dated September 1. 00:46:29.750 --> 00:46:33.080 align:middle line:84% That's two weeks before she sent me to the gulag. 00:46:33.080 --> 00:46:35.840 align:middle line:84% She never had any intention of living with me again when 00:46:35.840 --> 00:46:37.830 align:middle line:90% she put me on that plane. 00:46:37.830 --> 00:46:40.940 align:middle line:84% So you can call this my denial or whatever, but there it is. 00:46:40.940 --> 00:46:44.050 align:middle line:90% Deny that check and its date." 00:46:44.050 --> 00:46:45.940 align:middle line:90% They walked on in silence. 00:46:45.940 --> 00:46:47.590 align:middle line:90% Frank grabbed Kramer's arm. 00:46:47.590 --> 00:46:48.790 align:middle line:90% They stopped. 00:46:48.790 --> 00:46:50.343 align:middle line:84% "Kramer, don't feel bad about it. 00:46:50.343 --> 00:46:51.760 align:middle line:84% I know you were trying to help me. 00:46:51.760 --> 00:46:53.650 align:middle line:90% I needed help." 00:46:53.650 --> 00:46:55.240 align:middle line:84% While Kramer was still pondering where 00:46:55.240 --> 00:46:59.140 align:middle line:84% the final truth of the situation might lie, 00:46:59.140 --> 00:47:02.330 align:middle line:84% or if there were a final truth, Frank said, "Hey, 00:47:02.330 --> 00:47:05.560 align:middle line:84% I've done some numbers, but step back and look at this. 00:47:05.560 --> 00:47:07.840 align:middle line:90% It's a real masterpiece. 00:47:07.840 --> 00:47:11.620 align:middle line:84% Karen took several of my closest friends and associates, 00:47:11.620 --> 00:47:13.780 align:middle line:84% five completely different people, 00:47:13.780 --> 00:47:15.460 align:middle line:90% and put on a little circus. 00:47:15.460 --> 00:47:16.810 align:middle line:90% She conned them all. 00:47:16.810 --> 00:47:18.100 align:middle line:90% She conned me. 00:47:18.100 --> 00:47:20.290 align:middle line:90% Her timing was impeccable." 00:47:20.290 --> 00:47:23.260 align:middle line:84% He looked back toward the surf exploding in the sunlight. 00:47:23.260 --> 00:47:25.300 align:middle line:90% "She screwed me completely. 00:47:25.300 --> 00:47:27.160 align:middle line:90% It was beautifully done. 00:47:27.160 --> 00:47:28.750 align:middle line:90% It was elegant. 00:47:28.750 --> 00:47:30.520 align:middle line:84% Whatever else you might think of Karen, 00:47:30.520 --> 00:47:33.130 align:middle line:84% you've got to admire the girl for this." 00:47:33.130 --> 00:47:38.830 align:middle line:84% And looking out to sea, Frank smiled a tender, wistful smile. 00:47:38.830 --> 00:47:39.400 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:47:39.400 --> 00:47:42.750 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:47:42.750 --> 00:47:45.000 align:middle line:90%