THE LION’S ROAR
Written and Narrated by Dean Allen Snow
Format: Docu-drama screenplay excerpt
Tone: Cinematic realism · Moderate R
Theme: Family, addiction, state power, truth
SCENE 1 — COURT DOCUMENTS / SOCIAL WORK OFFICE (MONTAGE)
Stacks of paper. Stamps: “TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS.” Velda’s name in bold. Dean across the table, silent.
SCENE 2 — APARTMENT / NIGHT
Velda shakes from withdrawal. Dean brings soup. A worn photo of Travis on the table.
SCENE 3 — WHISPERS AT THE DOOR / KIMBERLY’S HOUSE
A friend, Kimberly, passes a small bag. Velda hesitates, then takes it.
SCENE 4 — DEAN HEARS ABOUT THE VISIT
KIMBERLY (or CASEWORKER)
She went to the jail, Dean. To see Kane.
SCENE 5 — VISITATION ROOM (FLASHBACK)
Velda behind glass. Kane, barely twenty, in orange—tired but sober.
KANE
Tell him thank you. For helping you. For helping my boy.
SCENE 6 — DEAN & VELDA (AFTERMATH)
DEAN
You could’ve told me. I’d have gone with you. You didn’t have to do this alone.
SCENE 7 — DEAN’S VOICE / FADE OUT
Archival footage: families torn by CPS. Dean passes the courthouse, alone.