Fade to Zilch

Dr. Joseph Metropolis calls himself a philosophical counselor, and he is looking for a paying client with the weight of the world on his shoulders. He finds such a person in Zero Vaynilovich, also known as Zilch, who comes to him demanding assistance in finding his lost love. Although private detective work isn’t his usual employment, Dr. Metropolis agrees to help the lovelorn tycoon.

Thus begins a narrative that seeks to shine a light on the darkest reaches of the human mind. As Dr. Metropolis weaves through the fabulous theatrical world of Hollywood, he encounters movie moguls striving to embrace their creativity while struggling with their own psychological demons. He explores the role of the muse, the intemperate impulses of the femme fatale, and the lure of the casting couch—all while working to solve the mystery brought to him by Zilch.

Featuring spectacle, sexual intrigue, and a host of memorable characters, this screenplay details the fall of an empire that has become devoid of artistic inspiration.