The Ideal Switch
INT. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMON AREA - DAY
Eleanor, Chidi, Tahani, and Jason are under a giant DOUGHNUT SCULPTURE relaxing when suddenly MICHAEL (Janet by his side) rushes in with papers flying everywhere.
MICHAEL:
Guys! GUYS! I just got a new update from the judge! This is huge!
TAHANI:
Is it about our luxurious mansion design?
MICHAEL:
No, but it's even better. It seems there's a way to save multiple souls from the Bad Place! Apparently, the system has a glitch in the scores and the judge has allowed us to switch places with any four people in the Bad Place.
ELEANOR:
So, we choose their torture for eternity? Harsh, but kind of awesome.
CHIDI:
But, how do we decide who switches with us?
JASON:
We should have a dance-off! Winner takes all!
JANET:
I'll make a list of the people with the highest scores incase any of you change your minds.
MICHAEL:
Exactly, you only have a day to decide, so no pressure or anything.
CUT TO:
INT. ELEANOR AND CHIDI'S LIVING ROOM - LATER
Eleanor and Chidi sit in deep thought, lists in hand.
ELEANOR:
This is insane. Can we really choose who deserves to suffer in our place? This is messed up.
CHIDI:
I know. We're talking about stripping someone of their chance at eternal happiness... or at the very least, avoiding eternal torture.
FADE TO:
INT. TAHANI AND JASON'S LIVING ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Tahani and Jason are sprawled on the floor, surrounded by crumpled lists.
TAHANI:
Darling, these names hold no significance to me. How can I possibly choose from unknown souls?
JASON:
Maybe Janet can help us with a brief bio for each person? We can decide based on that!
CUT TO:
INT. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMON AREA - DAY
The four friends discuss their potential picks.
ELEANOR:
Alright, I pick...uh... Bethany. She was a telemarketer in life, so I don't feel too bad about the switch.
JASON:
Oh, that's a good idea. I choose... Paul! Dude's an arsonist. Fair game.
CHIDI:
I just can't make this decision.
TAHANI:
Time's running out! We have to commit!
CUT TO:
INT. MICHAEL'S OFFICE - DAY
The four friends, Michael, and Janet gather to discuss the final list.
CHIDI:
(panicking) What if we can't decide? What if we pick the wrong people? Maybe we shouldn't do this at all!
As Chidi begins to spiral, Eleanor places her hand on his shoulder, steadying him.
ELEANOR:
(softly) Chidi, we're going to do this together, okay? We'll find the best possible outcome for everyone. We got this.
TO BE CONTINUED
The Good Place - Season 3, Episode 9: 'The Finite Fork'
INT. THE GOOD PLACE, TOWN SQUARE - DAY
Eleanor (EL), Chidi (CH), Tahani (TA), and Jason (JA) are gathered around Michael (MI) in the town square.
MI: Friends! I've just discovered a possible solution to our big... er...dilemma?
TA: (raises her eyebrows) Oh, you mean the fact that we're still somehow not accumulating any points and we're all destined for the Bad Place?
JA: BORTLES!!
EL: Slow down, Michael. What kind of solution are we talking about here?
MI: One: Stop calling me Michael like we're family. Second: We can actually fast track our way into the Good Place by completing... ('throws finger quotes') 'The Finite Fork'.
Chidi raises his hand to ask a question.
CH: Can you, by any chance, be more specific about what 'The Finite Fork' is? And also, are you sure this is a real thing and not another decoy?
MI: Trust me, Chidi, it's as real as my bowtie, and it's a Good Place sanctioned method to accumulate a significant amount of points in a hurry, but it consists of a series of challenges that will force you all to face your worst moral dilemmas.
The group exchanges uneasy glances.
EL: This sounds like a recipe for disaster, but we don't exactly have much of a choice, do we?
MI: That's the spirit, Eleanor! Now gather around as I explain the first challenge of 'The Finite Fork'.
CUT TO:
INT. A QUIET ROOM - DAY
The group is sitting in a circle. Janet (JN), who was previously absent, provides a whiteboard where Michael draws a diagram.
JN: Just to clarify, everyone, I was participating in a cactus arranging contest, which I won. But I'm here to help with 'The Finite Fork' now!
MI: The first challenge will force you to each teach a philosophy class to pre-schoolers from the Good Place.
CH: (Winces) Are the pre-schoolers real? Or just simulations?
MI: You'll find out soon enough.
TA: This is outrageous! Have you any idea how hard it was for me to teach my own little sister about... well, anything?
EL: (laughs) It can't be that bad, Tahani. Although, last time I had to talk to a bunch of kids, I accidentally convinced them that the Tooth Fairy was a debt collector from a seedy underground organization.
JA: That's dope!
JN: Don't worry, guys! I'm sure you'll all do great! I can provide you with teaching materials for your classes! ... including non-fork related utensils if needed.
CUT TO:
INT. THE CLASSROOM - DAY
The group walks into a classroom set up with four separated corners. Each one has a group of pre-schoolers ready for their lecture.
TA: I suppose I'll just stand in this corner, balancing as many teacups as I can.
CH: (Deep breath) Well, it's go time...
EL: (Whispers to Michael) If we screw this up, are you sure there's no 'Finite Fork Part 2: Bigger Fork' or something like that?
MI: Unfortunately, this is your one shot, Eleanor. The stakes are very... 'forking' high.
CUT TO BLACK. TITLE CARD: 'TO BE CONTINUED'
The Wheel of Morality
INT. NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER - DAY
ELEANOR SHELLSTROP, CHIDI ANAGONYE, TAHANI AL-JAMIL, and JASON MENDOZA are gathered around MICHAEL, who stands in front of a colorful wheel labeled 'WHEEL OF MORALITY'. Behind him, JANET is holding the wheel's stand.
MICHAEL
Alright everyone, I have a new training exercise for us. Introducing... the Wheel of Morality! *
CHIDI (nervous)
What is this supposed to teach us?
MICHAEL
Well, I spin the wheel, and it lands on a moral dilemma. Then, we discuss the best course of action to address the situation!
ELEANOR (smirking)
This should be fun.
INT. NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER - MOMENTS LATER
Michael spins the wheel, and the pointer lands on a scenario. Everyone looks at the scenario with curiosity.
ON WHEEL
'A FRIEND IS ABOUT TO CHEAT ON THEIR PARTNER. WHAT DO YOU DO?'
TAHANI (pondering)
That's a tricky one. As their friend, your loyalty is to them, but at the same time, cheating is wrong.
ELEANOR
I mean, I would just let them do their thing. It's not our place to intervene, right?
CHIDI
Actually, as friends, we have a moral responsibility to discourage dishonesty.
JASON (excited)
I got it! We can sabotage their date and save their relationship!
CHIDI (sighing)
That's... not exactly what I had in mind.
INT. NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER - LATER
The discussion continues as the wheel is spun again.
ON WHEEL
'YOU'VE FOUND A LOST WALLET WITH MONEY INSIDE. WHAT DO YOU DO?'
JASON (eagerly)
Is it a cool wallet?
CHIDI (laughs)
The wallet's design shouldn't influence our decision. Returning the wallet to its rightful owner is the ethical choice.
TAHANI
Of course. But you may keep the money as a finder's reward.
MICHAEL
Actually, the morally ideal thing to do is return the entire wallet, including the money inside.
INT. NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER - LATER
The wheel is spun again with the group offering a variety of perspectives each time.
ON WHEEL
'SHOULD YOU TELL A FRIEND THEIR OUTFIT IS UNFLATTERING?'
ELEANOR
Oh, this is a no-brainer. You always tell them the truth. Friends don't let friends look like trash.
TAHANI
Hmmm. It may be better to avoid hurting their feelings, at least when in public. You wouldn't want to embarrass them.
JANET
As an informational assistant, I could provide endless fashion advice. You could always consult me!
JASON
Or just give them a thumbs up! *
CHIDI
It's important to approach that kind of situation tactfully, being honest but also being kind.
INT. NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER - LATER
As the training continues, Michael's wheel falls apart, causing the pieces to scatter on the floor.
TAHANI
Oh, dear. What a mess.
MICHAEL (disappointed)
Well, I suppose we'll have to pick this up another time. There are still so many scenarios to explore!
ELEANOR (smiling)
Yeah, but our conversations got us thinking about the choices we make and how they affect other people. That's something, right?
MICHAEL (grinning)
I suppose it is, Eleanor. TO BE CONTINUED.
The Good Place - Season 6, Episode 6
INT. GOOD PLACE INTERIOR - DAY
Eleanor, Michael, Chidi, Tahani, and Jason are seated in a circle. Janet is standing nearby, holding a clipboard.
ELEANOR:
Alright, team. We've made some serious progress fixing the points system, but there's still work to be done.
MICHAEL:
Well, I've been crunching some numbers and it seems like we need a new way to categorize people's actions without labelling them as 'good' or 'bad'.
JANET:
(static) I have an idea! (smiling) What if we have categories like 'Intentionally Good', 'Accidentally Good', 'Intentionally Bad', 'Accidentally Bad'?
Everyone looks at Janet, and then agrees, approving her proposal.
TAHANI:
Janet, darling, that is simply an astounding idea.
CHIDI:
It takes into account both the outcome of the action and the person's intentions when they performed it.
ELEANOR:
Perfect! Now, let's brainstorm on how to approach the other issues.
INT. JASON'S ROOM - DAY
Jason sneaks away from the group and enters his room, where he calls for Janet.
JASON:
(Returning to video game) Yo, Janet!
JANET:
(nervous) Oh hey Jason, how can I help you?
JASON:
Can you give me some of that popcorn that makes you smarter?
JANET:
You mean cognition popcorn? It doesn't actually make you smarter, it just helps with focus and attention.
JASON:
Forking right it does!
Janet conjures the popcorn, rolling her eyes.
INT. GOOD PLACE INTERIOR - DAY
cuts to everyone else hearing Jason yell for Janet
MICHAEL:
(looking worried) What could Jason possibly want from Janet at a time like this?
ELEANOR:
I don't know, but we better find out and bring him back into our brainstorming session.
INT. JASON'S ROOM - DAY
Eleanor, Michael, Tahani, and Chidi enter Jason's room to see Jason munching on smart popcorn, gaming intensely.
TAHANI:
Really, Jason? So this is why you snuck away?
ELEANOR:
Dude! This is serious business! We're trying to fix the afterlife.
JASON:
(preoccupied) But there's a new BORTLES Championship, and I need to win it!
Seeing he isn't going to stop gaming ...
CHIDI:
Eleanor, Jason probably needs a break. Let's just keep planning without him.
ELEANOR:
Fine. But if we fix the afterlife without Jason, there's no way he's getting any of the credit.
The group leaves Jason's room, tossing around ideas as they walk away.
TO BE CONTINUED
The Eternal Dilemma
EXT. THE GOOD PLACE - DAY
We open on a beautiful day in The Good Place, with ELEANOR, CHIDI, TAHANI, and JASON walking and talking.
ELEANOR
You know, I've been wondering, do we really know what we want?
CHIDI
Ah, the age-old philosophical question of desire and satisfaction. This seems to have been a seemingly insurmountable problem for humanity - the eternal dilemma.
TAHANI
Well, back when I was organizing charity galas for world-renowned artists, I knew exactly what I wanted: a flawless event, world peace, and a slimmer waistline.
JASON
Bro, all I ever wanted was to play videogames with my homies, eat a tasty pizza, and occasionally set off some sweet firecrackers in my backyard.
INT. TAHANI'S MANSION - DAY
As the group enters the mansion, they find MICHAEL and JANET discussing the finer points of human desire.
MICHAEL
I must admit, it's been one of the most fascinating aspects of human existence - your endless hunger for things just out of reach.
JANET
That's true Michael, to understand human desires and needs, I spent considerable time synthesizing human experiences such as eating, feeling pain, and even falling in love.
CHIDI
(stressed)
Ugh, I feel like I need to sit down and drink some almond milk.
ELEANOR
I'm with you, Chidi. Michael, any chance you could whip up something related to our dilemma here? Maybe like, a simulation to show we can't ever be completely satisfied?
MICHAEL
Ah yes, I can create a scenario that would precisely exemplify The Eternal Dilemma, taking you through a series of events to see if true satisfaction can ever be achieved.
JASON
Can we have videogames?
MICHAEL
Sure, why not.
INT. SIMULATION ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
The group finds themselves in a new room, where they are each provided with the object of their desire. Eleanor gets an endless supply of shrimp cocktail, Chidi a library of philosophy books, Tahani a luxurious designer wardrobe, and Jason a gaming system. As time passes...
TAHANI
(concerned)
Goodness, I feel like I'm wearing the same ballgown twice in one week! Even though these clothes are great, I just can't... feel happy.
CHIDI
Reading all these books has only led me down an endless existential spiral... now I can't decide if I want to keep reading or not!
ELEANOR
At this point, I think I'm going to puke if I see another shrimp...
JASON
Playing videogames without my friends doesn't feel right. Can we share experiences?
MICHAEL
Interesting observations! Let's take those into account and remember that true satisfaction might lie in more than just getting our desires met.
Suddenly, an ALARM rings within the simulation.
JANET
Oh no, the perimeter alarm has been triggered! It seems like we have an unexpected visitor!
The group, now bewildered, rushes to see the cause of the alarm.
TO BE CONTINUED
The Twisty Shrimp
INT. ELEANOR AND CHIDI’S HOUSE - DAY
We find Eleanor, Chidi, Tahani, and Jason in the living room, huddled around a game board.
ELEANOR: Okay, so just to recap, our entire existence in the afterlife has basically become a wacky game show where the points keep changing and we keep dying.
CHIDI: Well, when you say it like that, it does sound absurd.
JASON: I miss going on cool Michael's not a demon adventures.
TAHANI: And yet, despite the chaos, we're still trying to unravel the mystery of this place, and we're doing it together!
ELEANOR: Alright gang, let's focus. The game is called The Twisty Shrimp, remember? It's supposed to be the key to figuring out how to leave this neighborhood.
INT. MICHAEL'S OFFICE - DAY
Michael browses his reports, deep in thought. Janet appears next to him.
JANET: Hey there, Michael! You seem troubled.
MICHAEL: Janet, I can't help but feel responsible for this mess. I've been trying to tweak the neighborhood so it's a good place, but no matter what I do, those pesky humans manage to find flaws.
JANET: Maybe you should try a different approach, like joining forces with them?
MICHAEL: (laughs) Oh, Janet. It's endearing how much faith you put in them. But I just think there must be something I'm missing.
INT. ELEANOR AND CHIDI’S HOUSE - DAY
Eleanor rolls the dice.
ELEANOR: Okay, 12 twists! Tahani, your turn.
Tahani rolls, frowning.
TAHANI: Just three twists for me. How pedestrian.
JASON: (winningly) 38 twists, baby! That's more than you and Chidi combined!
CHIDI: It's not a competition, Jason! We're supposed to work together to solve this.
Suddenly, Bad Janet appears in a puff of black smoke.
BAD JANET: Hey morons! I've been spying on you for, like, a minute, and I'm already bored as hell. You'll never figure out the secret.
ELEANOR: Excuse you, who invited Trash Janet?
BAD JANET: Please, call me Bad Janet, and I'm here because where there's chaos, I'm drawn like a magnet.
JASON: Oh great. Now we have both good Janet and bad Janet.
BAD JANET: Listen up, dummies. I know what you're all up to, trying to escape the neighborhood, and I'm here to tell you - it's impossible. Now, where's that shrimp?
Realizing they have an advantage, the humans glance at each other.
ELEANOR: Hey, Bad Janet, whaddya say you help us out a bit and, in return, we'll give you the shrimp?
BAD JANET: (thinking) Deal. But don't think I'll go easy on you losers.
Eleanor, Chidi, Tahani, and Jason exchange nervous looks, knowing that they might have just struck a deal with the devil.
TO BE CONTINUED
The Existential Experiment
INT. NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER - DAY
Eleanor, Chidi, Jason, Tahani, Michael, and Janet are gathered around the main table.
ELEANOR
So, let me get this straight...we're basically going to recreate the original experiment from when we first got to the Good Place?
MICHAEL
Yes, exactly. We believe that by studying our past behavior in the Good Place, we can gather valuable information to help improve the afterlife system.
TAHANI
How delightfully retro! Like a celestial nostalgic trip.
JASON
Oh! Like those time traveling movies with that professor-looking dude? (miming an explosion with his hands) Kaboom!
CHIDI
(impatiently) I think we all understand the concept, now can we please start?
JANET
I've brought some visual aids to help remind you of your previous experiences here. (snaps fingers, creating an assortment of images in midair) Feel free to explore individual memories and get comfortable.
INT. MICHAEL'S OFFICE - DAY
Eleanor and Chidi sit on a couch, examining pictures from their first trip to the Good Place.
ELEANOR
Wait, is this when I had a pet giraffe? I don't remember that.
CHIDI
It must have been from one of the resets. Janet told me about it once.
ELEANOR
(smiling) We had some wild times. Nice to have a walk down eternal memory lane.
EXT. ROSE GARDEN - DAY
Tahani and Jason stroll through Tahani's beautiful garden as they examine their visual aid.
TAHANI
Oh, look at this wonderfully garish clown house. That's where you, Michael and Janet had that ridiculous party, right?
JASON
Yeah, it makes me feel rad. (proudly) I was the DJ!
TAHANI
(smiling) Yes, how could I forget? It's interesting how even the most frivolous moments have meaning.
INT. NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER - DAY
The group reconvenes at the main table.
MICHAEL
Alright, now that we've refreshed our memories, let's dive into the experiment. Eleanor, Chidi, Jason, and Tahani, I need you all to act as if you've just arrived in the Good Place. As if you have only met each other for the first time.
JANET
Good luck, friends! (smiles and vanishes)
ELEANOR
Alright, so... Hi, I'm Eleanor. I belong in the Bad Place. Let's get this show on the road, I guess?
CHIDI
I'm Chidi, and I'm unsure if I belong here or not.
TAHANI
I'm Tahani, and I'm fabulous!
JASON
I’m Jason, and I also don't know what's happening, but you know, #YOLO?
MICHAEL
Great start! Now, we need to test your decisions and reactions to common Good Place situations like, say, unexpected parties, dancing, and ethical dilemmas. Let's see how much you've truly changed.
TO BE CONTINUED
The Missing Memories
INT. NEIGHBORHOOD - DAY
Eleanor Shellstrop, Chidi Anagonye, Tahani Al-Jamil, and Jason Mendoza stand near the famous FRO-YO building. Michael and Janet walk up to them, looking excited.
MICHAEL
Hey, guys! Do you want to join us for a game of Badminton?
ELEANOR
(looking confused)
Is that a thing we do here?
CHIDI
(nervously agreeing)
Yeah, I don't remember ever playing a game of badminton here.
JANET
(factoring in)
Well, fun fact: our neighborhood loves to engage in recreational activities to bond and create a sense of community. Plus, it's fun!
TAHANI
(clearly impressed)
Well, of course, I excel at the genteel sport of badminton. I once played with the Duchess of Cambridge.
ELEANOR
(rolling her eyes)
Of course, you did.
INT. NEIGHBORHOOD COURTYARD - DAY
The group begins their Badminton game in the courtyard. Everyone is playing but something feels off.
ELEANOR
(grumbling)
This is so good-placey... I can't stand it. What's next? Joint knitting sessions?
As the game goes on, Eleanor can't shake the feeling that there's something missing.
ELEANOR
I don't get it... There's just something off about this place.
CHIDI
(ruminating)
I do feel like there's some memory that's been taken from us.
EXT. NEIGHBORHOOD - NIGHT
The group stands by a FIRE PIT as the sun has set. They all seem concerned.
TAHANI
(looking puzzled)
As much as I enjoy being here with all of you, I can't help but feel that there's a missing piece in our experience.
JASON
(nodding)
Yeah, I feel that way too. It's like when you go to a Jaguar's game and realize you're missing half of the fourth-quarter action.
ELEANOR
Who can we talk to about this?
JANET
(cheerfully)
You can ask me! That's what I'm here for.
MICHAEL
(smiling cautiously)
Janet, we would like to know if there's anything missing, anything we might have forgotten.
JANET
(pensive, then uber-happy)
Scanning all versions and iterations of the neighborhood... Done! I found the missing memory! It's from--
Before Janet can reveal the missing memory, her voice glitches, and she freezes in place.
TO BE CONTINUED
The Unseen Forest
INT. THE GOOD PLACE - DAY
Eleanor, Chidi, Tahani, and Jason gather in Eleanor's living room. It's morning, and they are having breakfast.
ELEANOR
(needs coffee)
Aw, fork. We drank all of the coffee yesterday. Can anyone please help a gal get her morning fix?
TAHANI
(relaxed)
Well Eleanor, Michael taught us all how to conjure items here. Just focus and imagine the coffee in your hands. It's quite simple.
ELEANOR
(concentrating)
Alright, here goes. Uh, hocus pocus coffee wand thingy?(struggles) Coffee please?
In an instant, Eleanor has a giant coffee mug in her hands. Everyone laughs.
CHIDI
(smiling)
Great job, Eleanor. Maybe you'll be the next magical barista.
JASON
(excited)
Hey! We should have a magic show! Guys, I used to be an amazing magician back on Earth!
ELEANOR
(sarcastic)
I'm sure you were, Houdini.
Suddenly, Michael and Janet appear, mildly concerned.
MICHAEL
(frustrated)
Good news, gang! We've discovered a new area in the Good Place! Come on!
EXT. THE GOOD PLACE - THE UNSEEN FOREST - DAY
They arrive at the entrance to a lush forest, teeming with life.
JANET
(curious)
This is strange. This area wasn't here before, and it doesn't belong to any of the neighboring neighborhoods.
ELEANOR
(wily)
I've seen enough horror movies to know that creepy forests that suddenly show up have some sort of a mystery.
TAHANI
(cautious)
This could be another trick. Just like last time.
CHIDI
(confused)
What would be the purpose of making us believe there's something mysterious about this place? It doesn't add up.
ELEANOR
(resolved)
Guys, we handled our demons and evil fake-sons. I bet we can handle a spooky forest!
JASON
(pumped)
I'm in! Let's go!
They all exchange glances and start to trek into the forest.
INT. THE UNSEEN FOREST - DAY
As the group walks deeper into the forest, they stumble upon a quaint cottage. Janet picks up a book lying nearby.
JANET
(clears throat)
'The Unseen Forest: Book of the Unknown.' Interesting. (reads) Did you know that the word 'forest' originates from the Latin word foris meaning 'outside' or 'door'? Very enlightening (laughs).
CHIDI
(worried)
Have any of you guys wondered why we haven't met any other residents yet?
MICHAEL
(grim)
I've been getting notifications that the residents are not able to leave their houses. It seems the forest has also blocked access to the other neighborhoods.
ELEANOR
(concerned)
So, what are we going to do? Our friends are locked up, and we've got something weirder than Jason happening!
INT. COTTAGE - DAY
Inside the cottage, they find clues connecting the forest to a powerful magical force.
TAHANI
(pondering)
Perhaps the magic of The Good Place has a limit. Or worse, something terrible has hatched outside! Oh, what have I gotten myself into?
JANET
(calming)
Let's not jump to conclusions. Maybe the forest is here to teach us something?
As they continue to search for answers, they find clues in books and scrolls. They piece together the possibility of an unknown, magical entity controlling the forest.
MICHAEL
(determined)
I will inform the other architects about this immediately. We need to find out what's causing this anomaly and get the residents back to normal.
TO BE CONTINUED.
The Enlightenment
EXT. THE GOOD PLACE - DAY
Eleanor, Tahani, and Janet stand in front of a pavilion with a sign that reads 'Knowledge Marathon 2000'. The gang is excited to participate in this unique intellectual event.
ELEANOR
I can't believe we get to learn everything about everything! I love the Good Place!
TAHANI
How delightful! I can finally learn the proper dance techniques from 17th-century France!
JANET
Good luck, guys! Remember, I'm here to answer any questions you might have. That's what I'm for!
CUT TO:
INT. PAVILION
The Good Place residents are seated, anticipating the beginning of the Knowledge Marathon. Michael steps up to the podium.
MICHAEL
Welcome, everyone, to the Knowledge Marathon 2000! By the end of this day, you'll know everything there is to know about the universe. Let the enlightenment begin!
The room fills with the sounds of pages flipping and rapid-fire typing.
CUT TO:
INT. PAVILION - MONTAGE
Eleanor and Tahani are seated next to each other. They skim through books, listen to lectures and engage in deep discussions. Eleanor uncovers a secret in one of the books.
ELEANOR
Tahani, check this out! The afterlife has a control room where everything is monitored.
TAHANI
Interesting. Do you think we could check it out?
ELEANOR
Only one way to find out. Let's grab Chidi and Jason and take a field trip!
CUT TO:
INT. CONTROL ROOM
Eleanor, Tahani, Chidi, and Jason gather in front of a giant locked door marked 'Control Room'. Janet appears.
JASON
So how do we get in?
JANET
Unfortunately, the Control Room requires special authorization. But there's a secret way in...through the Bad Place! I don't recommend it. It's a dangerous trip!
ELEANOR
Danger is my middle name! Also, it's not like we're risking getting sent to the Bad Place—we're already in the Good Place! What can go wrong?
The gang takes a moment to consider the plan.
CHIDI
I have an ethical dilemma with this, but I trust you guys. Let's go!
Janet snaps her fingers and opens a secret portal.
CUT TO:
INT. THE BAD PLACE - SINISTER CAVERN
The group enters through the portal to find themselves in a dark, eerie cavern. It's cold, and they can hear the distant screams of tortured souls.
TAHANI
Is it too late to change our minds?
ELEANOR
We've come this far, we might as well see it through. Onward!
Their journey through the Bad Place is full of treacherous obstacles, near-death experiences, and disturbing sights.
CUT TO:
INT. CONTROL ROOM - BAD PLACE
The group finally enters the Control Room from the Bad Place, bruised and terrified. They are stunned by the vastness of the room and the multitude of buttons, switches, and screens.
CHIDI
This room holds the secrets of the entire universe! We could discover more about the afterlife and maybe make it better for everyone.
ELEANOR
Or we could just press all the buttons and see what happens.
JASON
I like that idea! Button party!
CHIDI
(as horrified as a moral philosophy professor can be)
We can't just recklessly play around with people's fates!
The group debates whether to access any of the powerful secrets and make changes, but their decision is cut short. In the distance, the gang can hear footsteps and voices approaching.
ELEANOR
Quick, let's get out of here!
They barely manage to escape through another portal back to the Good Place, as the Bad Place torturers enter. The gang is relieved but mentally and physically exhausted from the journey.
CUT TO:
EXT. THE GOOD PLACE - NIGHT
JANET
Well, that was an adventure. Good night, guys!
As they disperse, Tahani notices something unusual. She stares at the sky, realizing the stars are arranged differently.
TAHANI
Eleanor, I think we've accidentally made a change, but I'm not sure what it is.
TO BE CONTINUED.
The Good Place: Paradox Paranoia
INT. THE GOOD PLACE - DAY
MICHAEL, ELEANOR, CHIDI, TAHANI, JASON, and JANET gather in the town square, discussing their latest challenges. The atmosphere is tense, yet optimistic.
MICHAEL: My friends, the time has come for us to face our greatest challenge yet.
ELEANOR: More challenging than taking down the Bad Place and putting Shawn in his rightful place?
CHIDI: Considering that we've handled even larger ethical quandaries, we can take on anything life throws at us.
TAHANI: Agreed. (glancing around) But... where's Janet?
Just as they speak, JANET pops out of thin air, sandwich in hand.
JANET: Hi there, Eleanor!
ELEANOR (groans): I will never understand how she just appears like that.
MICHAEL: That's not important right now. The important thing is that we've received news from The Judge. (pause) We're being tested once again.
Everyone exchanges nervous glances, the tension in the air growing thicker.
CHIDI (nervous): How are we being tested this time? Is it another moral philosophy quiz? Because if that's the case, I need to study.
JASON: Oh man... I hope it's not a I Ching test, I totally forgot what I Ching even is.
TAHANI: Relax, everyone. We've faced plenty of tests before, and we always come out on top. There's no reason to doubt ourselves now.
MICHAEL: Tahani's right. We can successfully navigate any challenge as long we face it together. (bracing himself) Let's see what this test is all about.
He pulls out an envelope, opens it, and begins to read.
MICHAEL (reading): 'Dear Inhabitants of the Good Place, we've noticed that you've successfully improved and reformed the afterlife in countless ways during your tenure. As such, we would like to propose a paradox for your team to solve.'
The group gasps in unison, the weight of the challenge sinking in.
CHIDI: A paradox? That's impossible! The very nature of a paradox is that it's unsolvable!
ELEANOR (panicked): We're doomed. I knew this moment would come sooner or later. We're about to be exposed, and no amount of moral philosophy can save us.
JANET (calmly): Hey, don't worry guys! Michael and I will find a loop-hole, just like we always do.
Everyone appears uncertain, as if their confidence has crumbled under the weight of the paradoxical challenge.
TAHANI: What is this paradox we're supposed to solve, Michael?
MICHAEL (reading): 'This is the Paradox of Ultimate Moral Authority. Should the Good Place have the power to determine who gets into the Good Place or Bad Place, given that its members are imperfect beings, or should this power reside elsewhere?'
A collective gasp fills the air. CHIDI clutches his stomach, visibly distressed.
CHIDI: We're in a real quandary here, friends. Do we challenge the very foundation of our existence, or do we leave the fate of the Good Place in the hands of potentially less-capable beings?
TO BE CONTINUED.
The Quantum Good Place
INT. THE NEW GOOD PLACE - DAY
Eleanor, Chidi, Tahani, Jason, Janet, and Michael are gathered around a table in the neighborhood square, sharing a meal. They're laughing and enjoying themselves.
ELEANOR
(raises her wine glass)
Wow, who would've thought it would take us over a thousand attempts to finally be here? Cheers to the Good Place!
ALL
(in unison)
Cheers!
CHIDI
(smiling)
You know, I never thought I'd say this, but I've actually enjoyed getting to know moral philosophy.
JANET
(interjects cheerfully)
Oh, fun Chidi fact! He actually almost became a moral philosophy professor on Earth!
JASON
Still sounds like a terrible band, bro.
TAHANI
(smiling politely)
Well, aside from Chidi's cute little philosophy remembrances, how is everyone faring in our new and improved Good Place?
MICHAEL
(leaning back in his chair)
I must admit, it’s a relief to not be in charge anymore. It's nice to be one of the residents for a change.
Suddenly, there is a loud CRASH and bright lights.
INT. THE GOOD PLACE - THE QUANTUM DOOR
A mysterious door appears, followed by a flustered-looking man, far from the average Good Place resident - QUANTUM STEVE. He is dressed in an antique lab coat and resembles your quintessential mad scientist.
QUANTUM STEVE
(nervously)
Oh, no! This is bad, really bad! You shouldn't be here!
JANET
(matter-of-factly)
I'm sorry, I don't have any information on any Quantum Steves in our database.
QUANTUM STEVE
(pacing frantically)
You don't understand! I'm from another timeline, and I've made a terrible mistake! There are infinite timelines, and intertwinement should never have happened!
TAHANI
(confused and concerned)
Oh, dear. What dreadful mistake have you committed?
QUANTUM STEVE
(quivering voice)
My latest experiment aimed at saving humanity went awry. It was supposed to join all the Good Places from different timelines into one ultimate Utopia for everyone who has ever lived. But instead, it fused multiple Bad Places from every timeline together and created a Mega-Bad Place.
ELEANOR
(raises an eyebrow)
Wait, so there's now some super-evil place existent, and here we thought everything was finally perfect?
QUANTUM STEVE
(stuttering)
Y-Yes, and the worst part is, the Mega-Bad Place is expanding, and it's only a matter of time before it threatens the existence of every Good Place!
ALL
(in unison)
Oh, fork!
TO BE CONTINUED
The Coin Flip Conundrum
EXT. NEIGHBORHOOD PARK - DAY
Eleanor, Chidi, Jason, and Tahani are relaxing in the park when Michael and Janet appear.
MICHAEL
Good news everyone, I discovered another neighborhood with no assigned ruler. So, we will use the Coin Flip Method to once again become your architects.
TAHANI
Well, how exciting! I've always wanted to design with a hands-on approach.
JASON
Oh man, can my neighborhood have a ball pit and a pizza shop with all-you-can-eat shrimp?
ELEANOR
Just when I thought we had settled down... I mean, I'm happy to help but, were we not any good in our previous roles?
CHIDI
(number of worlds: improbable)
I don't know how responsible it is to let us loose on an unsuspecting afterlife.
MICHAEL
You all did a great job last time, but with some... minor hiccups. However, I believe that if we all work together, we can make it even better. Janet, didn't you say so too?
JANET
(smiling)
Absolutely! I have complete confidence in our abilities as a team.
INT. NEIGHBORHOOD CONFERENCE ROOM - DAY
The group is gathered around a table filled with blueprints, memos and a large, silver coin.
ELEANOR
(mocking Tahani)
Don't tell me, Tahani, that you'd like a cocktail party for the initial meet-and-greet? Shocker.
TAHANI
There's nothing wrong with a little sophistication. Besides, it's much better than your preferred method of door-to-door asking if they've heard the good word about leaving everyone alone.
Eleanor rolls her eyes.
JASON
I still think giant pizza shops are a way to go. Triple Hawaiian Extreme, baby!
CHIDI
I appreciate the spirit of the discussion, but we need a balance between comfort, variety and stability. (to Michael) Maybe we leave it up to... uh, fate?
MICHAEL
That's where my Coin Flip Method comes in. We'll each present our designs, and then the coin will decide what elements we include. Simple and fair.
The gang looks unsure but eventually nods in agreement.
EXT. NEIGHBORHOOD PARK - DAY
The coin flips through the air, reflecting the sun as everyone watches. It lands. The team is leaning in and squinting to see the result.
ELEANOR
Alright, team Coin Flip, let's see what fate has in store for us.
Just as Eleanor is about to reveal the outcome...
TO BE CONTINUED
The Good Place: Eternal Dilemma
INT. THE GOOD PLACE - MICHAEL'S OFFICE - DAY
MICHAEL is sitting at his desk, looking at a file. ELEANOR approaches him.
ELEANOR: Hey, Michael, do you have a second? There's something off about the neighborhood lately.
MICHAEL: Uh, sure, Eleanor. What seems to be the issue?
ELEANOR: I don't know... it just feels like someone is watching us or something.
MICHAEL: (chuckles) Well, that's just silly. We're in The Good Place, everyone is supposed to be happy and carefree.
CHIDI walks in, looking visibly panicked.
CHIDI: Guys, I think there's something really wrong here. I just saw someone down at the frozen yogurt shop who didn't seem to belong.
TAHANI and JASON enter, both seemingly perturbed.
TAHANI: Darling, Chidi is right. Something is definitely amiss. And can we talk about why we still have frozen yogurt here? I thought we fixed all that.
JASON: Yeah, I saw a person who had like, demon vibes. But not like, cool demon vibes. More like, bad demon vibes.
ELEANOR: See, Michael, something's up.
MICHAEL: (sighs) Alright, let's all look into this together.
INT. THE GOOD PLACE - FROZEN YOGURT SHOP - DAY
Our gang arrives at the frozen yogurt shop and begins to investigate. They notice a suspicious person, ANTHONY, alone in the corner.
Tahani: Excuse me, but do you mind if we ask you a few questions?
Anthony: Uh, sure, what's up?
Eleanor: Look, buddy. We don't know who you are, but we know you don't belong in The Good Place.
Chidi: Eleanor, let's not jump to conclusions.
Jason: No, dude. That's definitely the guy with the bad demon vibes. He tried to sell me a magic snake before I ate my froyo.
INT. THE GOOD PLACE - MICHAEL'S OFFICE - DAY
The gang brings ANTHONY back to MICHAEL's office for questioning. MICHAEL regards ANTHONY with suspicion.
MICHAEL: Alright Anthony, you've got some explaining to do.
ANTHONY: (nervous) Uh, ok. Where do I start?
ELEANOR: How about with who you are and why you're here?
ANTHONY: (sighs) I suppose I can't hide it anymore. I'm... I'm not supposed to be here. I'm a demon from The Bad Place.
CHIDI: A demon? But why are you here?
ANTHONY: I'm not just any demon. I'm an Interdimensional Neighborhood Inspector. I'm supposed to make sure that everything is running smoothly in every neighborhood.
TAHANI: But, will we be in trouble for harboring you?
ANTHONY: (pauses) No. That's the problem. I've started to have doubts about my job, and how The Good Place and The Bad Place are run. Everything is so arbitrary, isn't it?
JASON: Yeah, it's like, who decides who gets the good magic snakes and who gets the bad magic snakes?
ELEANOR: (rolls eyes) Right, Jason.
The gang stares at ANTHONY, unsure of what to do next.
TO BE CONTINUED
