FADE IN:

EXT. CHELSEA PIERS - DAY

Torrents of rain have turned day to night in Manhattan. A woman, CAROLE, tries unsuccessfully to navigate the flooded sidewalk as the howling winds flip her umbrella inside out.

The unrelenting sounds of water hitting earth combined with New York's midday traffic noise swirl around her. She reaches an office door and fights to open it against the pounding elements.

INT. PIER 62 LOBBY - CONTINUOUS

The noise is instantly reduced to a soft pulsing beat as the woman shakes the rain from her umbrella and pats down her damp hair.

She sets out to find her victim, Criminal Intent Executive Producer/Co-Creator, Rene Balcer.

Her boots leave wet imprints in the carpet as she navigates a maze of stark white hallways. Finally, she reaches the production office, which is buzzing with activity, and decorated with clippings of Criminal Intent accolades.

INT. RENE BALCER'S OFFICE

A large, bright space despite the thundering storm outside. Tastefully decorated to include a desk, armoire and large white sofa. One entire wall has been transformed into a floor-to-ceiling dry erase board, the far left corner of which is filled with multi-colored notes and story ideas.

Rene is dressed casually in (of all things) shorts. He speaks with cautious enthusiasm as Carole begins the interview.

(CONTINUED)