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ACT ONE
MONTAGE
A series of short DISSOLVES. The history of Human aggression
play out in visuals as sections from Klaatu's final speech
from the original movie plays as a voice over:
- Nuclear testing.
KLAATU (V.O.)
The Universe grows smaller everyday -
and the threat of aggression by any
group - anywhere - can no longer be
tolerated.
- The Korean War.
KLAATU (V.O.) (CONT'D) *
There must be security for all or no
one is secure...
- Joseph McCarthy warning against communism.
KLAATU (V.O.) (CONT'D)
You're ancestors knew this when they
made laws to govern themselves - and
hired policemen to enforce them.
- The assassination of John F. Kennedy.
KLAATU (V.O.) (CONT'D)
We of the other planets have long
accepted this principle. For our
policemen we have created a race of
robots.
- The Vietnam War.
KLAATU (V.O.) (CONT'D)
At first sign of violence they act
automatically against the aggressor.
And the penalty for provoking their
action is too terrible to risk.
- The Space Program launching the Apollo Missions.
KLAATU (V.O.) (CONT'D)
The result is that we live in peace,
without arms or armies, secure in
the knowledge that we are free from
aggression and war.
- Neil Armstrong on the moon.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2.
KLAATU (V.O.) (CONT'D)
I came here to give you the facts.
It is no concern of ours how you run
your planet - but if you threaten to
extend your violence, this Earth of
yours will be reduced to a burned
out cinder.
- The first Gulf War.
KLAATU (V.O.) (CONT'D)
You're choice is simple. Join us
and live in peace.
- The second Gulf War.
KLAATU (V.O.) (CONT'D)
Or pursue your present course - and
face obliteration.
- The first Mars rover mission.
KLAATU (V.O.) (CONT'D)
We will be waiting for your answer.
The decision rests with you.
EXT. U.S. CAPITOL -- DAY
We zoom in slowly on the U.S. Capitol as we hear:
DR. BARNHARDT (V.O.)
I find that this committee as well
as the administration is quite naive
in its belief that somehow we are
safe from harm.
CUT TO:
INT. SENATE HEARING - SETI COMMITTEE -- DAY
DR. JOSEPH BARNHARDT, a man of about fifty-three years of
age and nephew of the great Professor Barnhardt, dressed in
tweed and every bit the beleaguered scientist, sits behind
an oak table with files spread across it.
Across from Dr. Barnhardt sit a row of very stern looking
SENATORS, none of which seem amused or affected by what Dr.
Barnhardt is saying.
A Legend appears across the bottom of the screen: SENATE
HEARING - COMMITTEE ON THE SEARCH FOR EXTRA TERRESTRIAL
INTELLIGENCE (SETI)
The room is filled with press, photographers camera's flash
as Dr. Barnhardt pleads his case to the Senate Committee.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3.
DR. BARNHARDT
As my findings show, unexplained
contact with our atmosphere in the
last five years has doubled. It is
my firm belief that we are being
probed by the society that visited
us over fifty years ago. The fact
that no one here seems to remember,
or care for that matter, about the
warning issued to us that dark day
troubles me to no end. The continual
pursuits of the United States...
SENATOR MAXWELL, lightly gray hair woman in her sixties,
Chair of the Committee cuts Dr. Barnhardt off. It's obvious
she commands the room and respect from those around her.
SENATOR MAXWELL
Dr. Barnhardt, everyone on this panel
appreciates all of your hard work
and the hard work of your colleagues.
DR. BARNHARDT
(frustrated)
I don't think you do...
SENATOR MAXWELL
But it is our opinion that we have
little reason to be concerned about
the possibility that there might be
a return from the visitor Klatuu or
any other traveler from his society.
If they were so concerned they would
have sent someone after the first
Apollo mission or the first shuttle
launch or the Mars rover...
DR. BARNHARDT
(insistent)
But Senator Maxwell, with the U.S.'s
plans for a manned mission to Mars
will bring even more attention to
us. Our manned moon missions might
have gone unnoticed, as well as our
small rovers, but a manned mission
to Mars might be the thing that tips
the scales against us...
Dr. Barnhardts interruptions has begun to irritate Senator
Maxwell and she cuts him off.
SENATOR MAXWELL
We are still not convinced he or
anyone else have reason to return.
(MORE)
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4.
SENATOR MAXWELL (CONT'D)
The end of the arms race should signal
to any other-worldly civilizations
that the Earth is a civilized planet.
Our aggressive intentions...
DR. BARNHARDT
Is meaningless when our long term
efforts to disarm ourselves have
been neglected and when there is a
renewed public interest cheap nuclear
power in lieu of sustainable renewable
resources.
Senator Maxwell looks at Dr. Barnhardt with piercing eyes.
She is not used to be cut off so abruptly.
SENATOR MAXWELL
We appreciate your zeal Doctor.
Unconcerned or oblivious to Senator Maxwell's back handed
compliment, Dr. Barnhardt continues with continued impatient
enthusiasm.
DR. BARNHARDT
I can't believe how casual you are
being about this? We're not talking
about some far away possibility, we
were warned. "This Earth of yours
will be reduced to a burned-out
cinder." How can you not be worried?
How can you not care? "Join us and
live in peace. Or pursue your present
course and face obliteration." How
much clearer can it be put?
SENATOR MAXWELL
(controlling her own
anger)
Last time we checked Doctor, that
was fifty years ago. Now in that
time how many times have we been
contacted?
DR. BARNHARDTS
Eyes sway over to another Senator.
SENATOR BENSON, a man in his sixties with graying hair and
glasses. The two lock eyes for a moment, as if commiserating.
Senator Benson has long supported Dr. Barnhardt, but it's
clear he's losing his own patience with the Doctor.
Barnhardt's eyes return to Senator Maxwell.
DR. BARNHARDT
None.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5.
SENATOR MAXWELL
How many signs have there been that
we might be in danger?
DR. BARNHARDT
None. But that doesn't mean...
SENATOR MAXWELL
Until you can provide us with
undeniable proof of the possible
return of an Alien life form, we
have no reason not to continue with
the planned manned mission to Mars
or to order the halt on construction
of a public space port in New Mexico.
DR. BARNHARDT
But Senator...
DR. BARNHARDTS
Face is one of complete exasperation.
THE SENATORS
Faces, ones of stone cold and expressionless.
SENATOR MAXWELL
The panel would like to thank you
for your time, doctor.
CUT TO:
INT. U.S. CAPITOL - HALLWAY -- DAY
We see Dr. Barnhardt from a distance exit through a set of
large doors into a stately hallway of the US Capitol. He
carries a number of files as he walks deliberately out of
the room. An AIDE walks up to Dr. Barnhardt and hands him a
note.
CUT TO:
INT. SENATOR BENSON'S OFFICE -- MOMENTS LATER
The office is a stately study, with large bookshelves and a
number of science fiction paraphernalia. The Senator's
affinity for outer space is clear.
We pan past a black and white photo of Senator Benson as a
child and KLAATU, the space traveler from 1951.
SENATOR BENSON
Sits in a large "smoking" chair, having just lit a cigar. A
knock as the door. The Aide sticks his head in.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6.
AIDE
Sir? Dr. Barnhardt, as you requested.
SENATOR BENSON
Send him in.
The Aide opens the door and Doctor Barnhardt enters.
SENATOR BENSON (CONT'D)
Dr. Barnhardt.
DR. BARNHARDT
You wanted to see me?
SENATOR BENSON
Yes, yes. Sit down. Sit down.
Dr. Barnhardt sits in another oversized chair. He holds his
files meekly on his lap.
DR. BARNHARDT
I thought smoking was prohibited in
federal buildings?
SENATOR BENSON
It is. But Congress is exempt from
the workplace laws it makes. Helps
to move the process along.
DR. BARNHARDT
You sent for me sir?
A file nearly slips out of Barnhardt's lap, but he catches
it. He looks up and the Senator, who takes a deep breath.
SENATOR BENSON
I have an affinity for history,
specifically that day in American
history. Which is part of the reason
I support your project so much.
DR. BARNHARDT
(flustered, fixing
his position with
the files)
And I'm very appreciative Senator..
SENATOR BENSON
But that support may have to come to
an end in the very near future.
DR. BARNHARDT
I'm sorry?
SENATOR BENSON
Rises and begins to pace the room.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7.
SENATOR BENSON
I share your fear of their return.
That one day this little planet of
ours will be turned to a dusty cinder.
But unfortunately, my fears have
grown old.
He stops pacing and stares at the picture of him and Klaatu,
his voice one of nostalgia and wistfulness.
SENATOR BENSON (CONT'D)
Like the lessons of December 7th,
1941, 1951 is too far into the past
for anyone to care. It's all about
9/11 these days.
DR. BARNHARDT
So what do I do then?
Senator Benson turns to Barnhardt and with a forceful tone
says:
SENATOR BENSON
Find something Doctor. Anything.
Otherwise, Senator Maxwell will see
to it that the plug gets pulled,
whether you like it or not.
INT. BARNHARDTS HOUSE/LAB -- AFTERNOON
Dr. Barnhardt walks through his front door, hanging his hat
on a hook. As he walks through the hallway, dropping his
coat on the floor, and setting down his briefcase, we see
that his house is a mess.
FILE AND PAPERS
Are stacked everywhere. He walks over to his desk and sits
down at his chair. He picks up a remote control and presses
"on".
THE TV
In the corner of the room comes to life. CNN pops on the
screen, an attractive CNN ANCHOR continuing her report.
CNN ANCHOR
...Dr. Joseph Barnhardt presented to
the Senate Committee on
Extraterrestrial Affairs.
The TV cuts to footage of Dr. Barnhardt presenting to the
committee.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8.
DR. BARNHARDT
(in the TV)
The increased, unexplained celestial
activity points directly to the
possibility that we are continuing
to be monitored by extraterrestrial
being, like the one that visited
fifty four years ago.
The TV cuts back to the Anchor.
CNN ANCHOR
Dr. Barnhardts was expressing concern
over the proposed manned missions to
Mars, schedule to occur in 2025.
DR. BARNHARDT
Looks over at a picture of his Uncle, Professor Jacob
Barnhardt. His face is filled with worry and concern.
Failing his uncle like this is not something he is please
with. The CNN Anchor continues on.
CNN ANCHOR (O.S.) (CONT'D)
His worries that our continued
expansion inside of our solar system
might bring attention by the powerful
other worldly society that visited
Earth in the 1950's fell on deaf
ears. A day the Doctor fears may be
fast approaching.
EXT. STREETS OF WASHINGTON D.C. -- NIGHT
There is snow on the streets, a slight slush washes over the
ground. The moon is full, shimmering brilliantly on the
crisp white snow.
STEVEN, an attractive and tall white male, thirty-five years
of age, walks briskly through the light snow that falls in a
darkened alley way. His army jacket is slightly damp, his
ruck sac slung over his right shoulder bumps against his
back as he walks. He is a slender man, his hair a wavy mop
on top of his head. He's a traveled man, one with a past
that is much deeper than his tired face reveals. Steven
stops in his tracks and looks to the night sky.
A SHOOTING STAR
Crosses the night sky.
STEVEN
Looks at it slightly puzzled. He looks down at his wrist.
HIS WATCH
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9.
A beautiful light green-silver device stands out against his
shabby attire. The display show various cryptic symbols of
a language not of this earth. He taps a button the side of
the watch, and the display clicks over to the actual time
that reads: 11:42.
SMACK.
A wooden baseball bat cracks across the back of Steven's
head, knocking him down to his knees.
THREE GANG MEMBERS savagely kick and punch at Steven.
GANG MEMBER ONE
Grabs Steven's ruck sac.
GANG MEMBER TWO pulls on Steven's arm, doing his best to rip
Steven's watch off his arm.
GANG MEMBER ONE
Get his watch! Get his watch!
GANG MEMBER TWO
I'm tryin'! It won't come off!
A SIREN sounds. A search light flashes out from a POLICE
CAR.
GANG MEMBER THREE
Let's go! Let's go!
The Gang Members take off down the alley, one with Steven's
bag in his hand. A POLICE OFFICER gets out of his car and
walks up to Steven.
THE POLICE OFFICER
Shines his flash light on Steven, who is rolling on the ground
spitting up blood.
STEVEN blinks and vainly shields his eyes from the light.
Blood drips from above his eyes.
STEVENS POV
The Police Officer talks into his walkie talkie.
POLICE OFFICER
I got a 11-47, over.
There's an affirmative response on the other end. Steven's
vision fails him as the Police Officer fuzzes into a tall
hazy mass.
STEVEN
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10.
Falls unconscious.
INT. GOSPEL RESCUE MINISTRIES - LORETTA'S OFFICE -- NIGHT
It's a sparsely furnished office, with a couch, a desk, a
computer, and a few chairs. Posters that are ten years old
hang on the walls, a failed attempt to make an unattractive
space more hospitable. A few pictures sit on the desk along
with a placard that says: LORETTA NEAL, DIRECTOR. The TV in
the corner flickers with the news.
LORETTA NEAL, black, attractive and in her mid-thirties,
sits behind her desk reading through files. She half listens
to it and half pays attention to her files. She's a hard
worker, who's dedication to her work borders on fanatical.
She wants to do good in this world and it shows.
TV
MSNBC is showing archived footage of Dr. Barnhardt on Hardball
with Chris Matthews.
DR. BARNHARDT
The point is Chris, this
administration refuses to accept the
very facts that are before them.
CHRIS MATTHEWS
Are you saying that you have proof,
Dr. Barnhardt? Because conjecture
will only get you so far in this
line of thinking.
LORETTA
Finally tired of not concentrating on one thing picks up the
remote and turns off the TV.
EARVIN (O.S.)
Can't concentrate?
Loretta looks over to her office door.
EARVIN, a young 20 something Black man, with a big smile and
bigger eyes stands in the door. His smile is as broad and
warm.
LORETTA
I think I've been staring at these
things for too long.
EARVIN
You want me to hang out while you
finish? Walk you out to your car?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11.
LORETTA
No, thanks Earvin. I think I'll try
and stare at them a bit more. You
should head home though. We got a
long day tomorrow.
EARVIN
Their all long days. You should
head home too.
LORETTA
I will. Very soon.
EARVIN
All right then. I'll catch you
tomorrow Loretta.
Loretta smiles at Earvin as he leaves. She stares back down
at her paperwork, then back over at the TV. Dr. Barnhardt
is still talking. The phone rings and Loretta answers.
LORETTA
Hello?
CUT TO:
EXT. RWANDAN VILLAGE -- DAY
Steven walks down the street Rwandan village, holding hands
with a beautiful African woman. A YOUNG GIRL runs up and
tackle hugs Steven. He picks her up and tickles her. Lights
begin to flicker in Steven's face. He shields his eyes. We
hear the RINGING that fills his ears.
INT. HOSPITAL EMERGENCY ROOM -- NIGHT
Steven awakens to find himself laying in a hospital bed.
His face is puffy and bloody, his eye looks like it's going
to pop out of his head. An I.V. is plugged into his free
arm.
THE POLICE OFFICER AND A NURSE
Stand a few steps away from him. The NURSE is a thick woman
in her forties.
STEVEN
Watches them intently, reading their lips.
VARIOUS ANGLES
He makes out "homeless vet" from the Police Officer and
"shelter" from the Nurse.
The two finish talking and part ways. The Nurse walks over
towards Steven, his eyes firmly entrenched on her.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12.
Steven's demeanor is very cold.
NURSE
Looks who found his way back to the
world of the conscious.
STEVEN
I have to get my bag back.
NURSE
I'm sure we'll be able to help you
sufficiently replace your belongings.
STEVEN
No, you don't understand.
Steven grabs the Nurse by the arm.
STEVEN (CONT'D)
I have to get my bag back.
The Nurse winces slightly under Steven's grip. She's not
thrilled with his beside manner.
NURSE
Sir...
The Nurse uses her other hand to wrench herself from Steven's
grip.
NURSE (CONT'D)
I will help you any way I can. But
you have to trust me. We'll get you
your bag back. You need to be
patient. It'll take time.
STEVEN
Time is the one thing I don't have
left.
The Nurse smiles.
NURSE
I'm sorry sir. You'll just have to
wait.
The Nurse begins to work on his face, cleaning up the blood
and patching what she can.
STEVEN
I heal very quickly. This really
isn't necessary.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
13.
NURSE
(losing patience)
Unless you want to lose your eye to
an infection, or a part of your ass
to my foot, you're just gonna have
to wait.
STEVEN
I really need to go.
The Nurse glances back.
LORETTA
Walks in through the sliding glass doors of the hospitals
Emergency room. Her eyes dart around as if looking for
something.
NURSE
I'll be right back. You don't go
anywhere.
The Nurse walks over to meet Loretta.
NURSE (CONT'D)
Loretta!
LORETTA
Janet! How are you?
The two hug. They're old friends.
NURSE
I'm fine. Sorry to call you out
like this but I thought you might
know him. He was assaulted in your
area.
LORETTA
No problem. I was working late
anyway. How is he?
The two head toward Steven's bed.
NURSE
He's pretty torn up, no ID, refuses
to tell us his name or where he comes
from.
As the two approach, Steven is pulling the monitoring devices
off of his body and ripping the IV out of his arm. The Nurse
and Loretta run to his side.
NURSE (CONT'D)
Whoa whoa whoa! What do you think
you are doing?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
14.
STEVEN
(without looking at
them)
I have to leave.
NURSE
Not until I say you can leave.
STEVEN
Get out of my way.
Steven tries to sit up, but the Nurse clotheslines him and
lays him back out.
NURSE
You still stay here until I tell you
differently. Understand?
Steven replies with nothing but an androgynous glare. His
gaze turns to Loretta. They stare at one another like their
old friend. In each other's eyes they recognize something
in each other. Loretta almost speaks, then doesn't.
The Nurse steps aside with Loretta to speak privately.
NURSE (CONT'D)
We did a psyche consult and they
refuse to admit him. He's very
insistent about getting his bag back.
Is he one of yours?
Loretta pulls her gaze away momentarily to answer the Nurse.
LORETTA
No, I don't think I've ever seen him
before.
Loretta turns back to Steven, who's eyes are still on her.
She steps away from the Nurse to Steven.
LORETTA (CONT'D)
Hello, I'm Loretta Neal. I run the
a Gospel Rescue's Mission on Fifth
Street.
Steven is silent, but Loretta is locked in on his eyes.
Behind his eyes she feels like she sees it all and wants to
help.
LORETTA (CONT'D)
Do you need a place to stay? A warm
bed to sleep in?
STEVEN
I need my bag.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15.
LORETTA
Ok, well, why don't you come with me
and we'll see what we can do about
getting you your bag back?
Steven shows his first sign of a smile.
CUT TO:
INT. LORETTA'S OFFICE -- NIGHT
Loretta leads Steven into her office. Loretta walks over
and moves files off her couch and onto the floor.
LORETTA
All the beds are full, so you're
going to have to sleep on my couch.
STEVEN
I really need to find my bag.
LORETTA
In the morning.
Loretta walks over to a cabinet and pulls a few blankets and
pillows out.
STEVEN
Do this a lot? Let strangers stay
in your office?
Loretta hands Steven the blankets and pillows.
LORETTA
Honestly. No. I don't. But you
have a kind face. And blind trust
is a big part of my job.
Loretta heads for the door.
STEVEN
I really need to find my bag.
Loretta pauses.
LORETTA
You feel like telling me your name
yet?
STEVEN
Steven.
LORETTA
We'll find it in the morning Steven.
You just have to have faith.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
16.
Loretta exits, closing the door behind her. Steven looks
around the room, inventorying his surroundings. He picks up
a picture from the desk and looks at it for a moment then
sets it down.
Steven sits on the couch, reaching into his jacket and pulling
out a small squeeze bottle. He squeeze a small amount onto
his fingers and begins to rub it onto his wounds. He winces
in pain.
CUT TO:
INT. GOSPEL RESCUE MINISTRIES - LORETTA'S OFFICE -- LATER
STEVEN
Lies on the couch asleep, the blanket covering him. His
jacket sits on a nearby chair.
STEVEN'S EYE
Is healing quickly and we see is slowly losing its swelling
at a faster rate than normal.
CUT TO:
EXT. RWANDAN VILLAGE - ARTIST'S COTTAGE -- DAY
The beautiful African woman from earlier sits as the muse
for a painting. Silence fills the room as Steven paints her
on a large wooden plank, like the Mona Lisa. Steven crisp,
clean shirt flutters in the draft.
STEVEN
Stares and smiles at her.
THE AFRICAN WOMAN
Smiles coyly back.
STEVEN
Turns his head. He hears something, but we hear nothing.
Steven looks back.
THE AFRICAN WOMAN
Continues to sit where she is, still smiling as if she hears
nothing.
STEVEN
Do you hear that?
But nothing comes out of his mouth. She continues to sit
and smile.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
17.
Steven takes his painting implements with him and walks to
the front door.
Steven steps outside of the building to see hundred's of
Hutu Men waiting patiently, each wielding a machete. Steven
looks down, his clean shirt is bloodied and dirty. His
painting implements gone, he holds two machetes's of his own
that drip with blood. He looks back at up the men. The men
SCREAM and run at him. This time we hear them and it is ear
piercing.
END OF ACT ONE
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
18.
ACT TWO
INT. GOSPEL RESCUE MINISTRIES - DORMS -- MORNING
Steven wakes with a start. He's had another nightmare. The
room is large and full of light. It's a multiple bed dorm,
with beds lining the walls. They are empty, their occupants
moved on for the day. His face is completely healed.
LEGEND: "One month later..."
JULIUS (O.S.)
Nightmare?
Steven looks over to see JULIUS, an old African American man
in an Army Ranger Jacket. Julius's face is weathered from
combat and life, but it is kind. He is genuinely concerned
with Steven's well being.
STEVEN
Is there a reason you are watching
me?
JULIUS
You were shaking and twitching in
your sleep. I'm just making sure
you actually wake up and weren't
having a seizure.
STEVEN
Oh... thanks, I guess.
Steven sits up slowly. He holds his head like it hurts.
JULIUS
You're head ok?
STEVEN
It's fine. Just... nevermind.
Julius looks more intently at Steven, studying his face.
Steven looks back with a perplexed expression.
STEVEN (CONT'D)
(uncomfortably, but
firm)
What?
JULIUS
Do I know you from somewhere?
STEVEN
No.
JULIUS
You spend a lot of time in shelters?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
19.
STEVEN
No.
JULIUS
You been here a long time?
STEVEN
A month.
JULIUS
That's a long time to spend in a
shelter when you don't spend a lot
of time in shelters.
Steven squints at, w
STEVEN
Is there a reason for this line of
questioning?
JULIUS
Just curious. That's all. See you
around.
Julius rises and exits. Steven watches as Julius exits. He
looks down at his watch. Steven rolls his eyes back and
falls back onto the cot.
CUT TO:
INT. GOSPEL RESCUE MINISTRIES - DINING AREA -- LATER
The Dining area is full of people in line to get food. Many
are homeless veteran's with nowhere to go. Steven sits at a
table eating his breakfast of scrambled eggs and toast.
STEVEN
Looks up to see Julius in the serving line, dolling out eggs
to the homeless. The two men's eyes meet for a moment and
then Steven looks back down.
EARVIN (O.S.)
Look who's back.
Earvin sits down across from Steven.
EARVIN (CONT'D)
How's it going?
STEVEN
Eggs are soggy.
EARVIN
I'll inform the chef.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
20.
STEVEN
When did that guy get here?
EARVIN
Which one?
Steven nods toward Julius. Earvin turns to look.
EARVIN (CONT'D)
Julius? Couple days ago. He lived
here a while back, but we got him on
assisted living. He started
volunteering while you were out on
walkabout. You find your bag?
STEVEN
Nope. My month long search has yet
to bare any fruit.
EARVIN
What if I told you that I know where
to find it?
STEVEN
What?
Steven looks up from his soggy eggs with an urgent look at
Earvin.
EARVIN
Some guys at a party were bragging
last night. Saying how they gaffled
some fool about a month ago. Found
some weird stuff in it.
STEVEN
Really...
EARVIN
What kind of weird stuff you keep in
that thing?
Steven's expression does not change in the face of the
question.
STEVEN
Do you know where they are?
EARVIN
I might. But there BGD... Black
Gangster Disciples. I don't think
you want to mess with them.
Steven just stares at Earvin.
CUT TO:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
21.
INT. HOUSING PROJECT - HALLWAY -- DAY
Earvin and Steven stand in front of a door that has distinct
graffiti on it. The markings of the BGD.
POV OF DOOR
Steven kicks the door in.
INT. HOUSING PROJECT - BGD APARTMENT
A MOVING SHOT
Of Steven as runs inside the apartment. The inside is a
mess, couches with no legs, the windows draped shut with bed
sheets. It looks like they've been squatting here as opposed
to living.
BGD MEMBERS
Scatter from the center, including the three who mugged
Steven. Steven works his way through the apartment, disarming
various gang members from their weapons, and dispensing with
them easily. He moves faster than they do and it's obvious.
INT. HOUSING PROJECT - HALLWAY
An OLD WOMAN, clutching her robe closed tightly in one hand
and a cat in the other, sticks her head out of her front
door.
OLD WOMAN
Is it the police?
EARVIN
Uh, yes ma'am. It's a raid.
OLD WOMAN
For drugs?
EARVIN
Sure.
NEW ANGLE
As a GANG MEMBER flies out through the front door and slams
into the hallway wall. Earvin smiles at the Old Woman, who
squints at him suspiciously and closes her door.
INT. HOUSING PROJECT - BGD APARTMENT
POV STEVEN
As Gang Member One is backing towards a corner, attempting
slide his clip into a gun. His hands shake like crazy.
POV GANG MEMBER ONE
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
22.
We see Steven approaching deliberately, completely unafraid.
Just as Gang Member One locks the clip into place and raises
it to face Steven, Steven slaps it away and kicks Gang Member
One in the chest, launching him against the wall. Steven
walks over and stands over Gang Member One. He crouches
down in front of him.
STEVEN
Where is my bag?
GANG MEMBER ONE
I don't know what the...
CRACK
Steven hits him one across his face, so fast we only see him
pulling his fist back away from Gang Member One's face.
STEVEN
I'll ask again. Where is my bag?
CUT TO:
INT. HOUSING PROJECT - HALLWAY -- MOMENTS LATER
Steven walks out the front door of the apartment to a stunned
Earvin.
EARVIN
Find your bag?
STEVEN
No. But I know where to look.
Steven heads down the hall.
Earvin glances inside the apartment. He looks back down the
hall at Steven.
EARVIN
What have I gotten myself into?
CUT TO:
EXT. NATIONAL RADIO ASTRONOMY OBSERVATORY - DAY
MOVING SHOT
Of the NRAO.
LEGEND: National Radio Astronomy Observatory, Green Bank,
West Virginia.
CUT TO:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
23.
INT. NATIONAL RADIO ASTRONOMY OBSERVATORY - DAY
An ASTRONOMER sits at his desk, reading a reprinting of the
Oct. 1940 edition of Astounding Stories. The NRAO building
is filled with banks of computers processing copious amounts
of information from its radio telescopes. The Astronomer is
ignoring his own monitors, which hardly ever change.
ASTRONOMERS COMPUTER SCREEN
The waves that had a normal pattern begin to grow and shift
at a rapid rate.
THE ASTRONOMER
Glances at the computer screen, then does a double take.
ASTRONOMER
What the hell is that?
CUT TO:
EXT. BARNHARDTS HOUSE/LAB -- DAY
DR. BARNHARDT
Sits in front of his computer screen, mulling over data. He
looks at temperature spike levels and radio wave info. The
phone RINGS.
DR. BARNHARDT
(answering the phone)
Barnhardt.
ASTRONOMER (V.O.)
Dr. Barnhardt, this is Steven Landry
at the NRAO. We're getting some
strange interference that matches
some wave forms that you asked us to
look out for.
DR. BARNHARDT
Really?
INT. NATIONAL RADIO ASTRONOMY OBSERVATORY - DAY
Same as before. The lights on the consoles flicker and make
funny noises.
ASTRONOMER
In fact, it's starting to affect my
equipment.
BLACKOUT. The lights in the building go out and the
astronomer is sitting in total darkness.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
24.
ASTRONOMER (CONT'D)
(mildly afraid)
Dr. Barnhardt? Dr. Barnhardt, are
you there?
CUT TO:
INT. BARNHARDTS HOUSE/LAB -- CONTINUOUS
ANGLE ON DR. BARNHARDT
Who is caught in a stare.
REVERSE ANGLE
On a FIGURE in a trench coat, a fedora for a hat, standing
in the shadows by his front door. He's a towering figure,
slender and imposing.
FIGURE
Dr. Barnhardt.
ASTRONOMER (V.O.)
Dr. Barnhardt?
DR. BARNHARDT
(into phone)
I'll have to call you back.
Dr. Barnhardt hangs up.
FIGURE
Hello, Doctor.
The Figure removes his fedora. It is KLAATU, a tall man
that looks to be in his early 70's (even thought he is more
like 130) with a silver main of hair. He's the spitting
image of himself from 1951 when he landed, but with more age
and a weathered expression on his face.
DR. BARNHARDT
Who are you?
KLAATU
I'm a friend of your late uncle. I
was sad to hear of his passing.
DR. BARNHARDT
My uncle... who are you?
KLAATU
My name is Klaatu.
A look of amazement and terror washes over Dr. Barnhardts
face.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
25.
KLAATU (CONT'D)
Do you mind if I have a seat?
Dr. Barnhardts pauses for a moment and then nods heartily,
motioning to a seat in the corner across from him.
KLAATU (CONT'D)
Thank you, Doctor. You are most
kind.
Klaatu sits.
KLAATU (CONT'D)
I just seem to keep getting older,
despite my best attempts to the
contrary.
Dr. Barnhardt is bewildered. In all his days he never thought
he'd meet the mysterious traveler Klaatu.
DR. BARNHARDT
You should be dead, shouldn't you?
I thought your life spans were only...
KLAATU
One hundred and forty years?
DR. BARNHARDT
Yes, exactly. So if you were seventy
eight on your last trip that would
put you at...
KLAATU
That's if we were counting years on
your planet, Doctor. When I said
that, I meant years on my planet,
not here.
DR. BARNHARDT
I see. So that would make you?
KLAATU
(mildly impatient)
Is this really necessary, doctor.
DR. BARNHARDT
(embarrassed)
No. No, of course not. I'm sorry.
KLAATU
You're work has intrigued me for a
long time Doctor. Your attempts to
track our monitoring of your planet
has been admirable.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
26.
DR. BARNHARDT
(impressed with himself)
So you have been watching us.
Klaatu picks up the picture of Professor Barnhardt from the
desk. He looks at it with affection as he speaks.
KLAATU
Since before I came and ever since I
left. Your planet has never ceased
to be a concern of ours. As you
have developed more and more advanced
weaponry, our interests in your planet
has grown. And for a time, we thought
you might solve the problem and
destroy yourselves. But that doesn't
seem as likely anymore, which has
led us to take more direct action.
A wave of fear grips Dr. Barnhardt.
DR. BARNHARDT
(expressionless and
terrified)
So you're here to destroy the planet.
Klaatu looks up from the picture.
KLAATU
No, Doctor. I'm not.
DR. BARNHARDT
(quizzically)
Then what are you here for?
KLAATU
Your Uncle helped me once. He was a
very great man. I only wish I could
have returned sooner to offer him
the same option I'm going to give
you. So out of respect for his
kindness and genius, I'm making you
an offer.
DR. BARNHARDT
What kind of an offer?
CUT TO:
INT. PAWNSHOP -- DAY
Various pawned paraphernalia hang from the walls of the shop.
There are several glass cases that line the walls, filled
with things from camera's to knives.
THE PAWNSHOP OWNER, a balding fat man, is thrown against a
wall of his own merchandise.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
27.
Steven is in his ass kicking mode again. He grabs the
Pawnshop Owner by the throat and holds him against the wall.
STEVEN
I'm not a fan of violence. I never
have been. Killing is never
enjoyable. Hurting people brings me
no joy. But I will end you if you
do not give me back what is rightfully
mine.
PAWNSHOP OWNER
(through being choked)
It's.. it's in the back... just...
Pawnshop Owner motions towards the back. Steven looks over
and lets him go. He shoves the Pawnshop Owner towards the
back.
STEVEN
Then get it.
CUT TO:
INT. PAWNSHOP - BACKROOM -- CONTINUOUS
The Pawnshop Owner squats in front of a safe, turning the
dials and putting in the combination. He opens it and reaches
in.
He pulls out Stevens bag and hands it to him.
STEVEN
Is everything in it?
PAWNSHOP OWNER
(nervously)
Yeah. Yeah. That thing started to
glow and I got freaked out. Haven't
opened the safe in almost a month.
STEVEN
Good.
Steven turns around and exits.
He passes by a VIDEO MONITOR and we see that there has been
a camera recording everything he's just done.
CUT TO:
EXT. BURGER JOINT -- DAY
Steven and Earvin sit outside of a Burger Joint eating burgers
and fries. The sun beats down on the two as they enjoy their
meal. A few people litter the other tables, but it's a
relatively slow business day for the Burger Joint.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
28.
There's silence between Earvin and Steven. Earvin studies
his friend, who's head is down and concentrating on his food.
EARVIN
So tell me this, where did you learn
to fight like that?
STEVEN
Around.
EARVIN
Around?
STEVEN
Yup.
EARVIN
Anyone ever tell you you're a man of
few words?
STEVEN
A few.
EARVIN
How does a guy, who seems to come
from money end up getting mugged in
some alley in DC, anyway?
STEVEN
What makes you say I'm from money?
EARVIN
That's a nice watch you got on there.
Steven picks his head up and stares at Earvin. He looks at
his watch and realizes it does look like it would be from a
monied individual.
STEVEN
A gift... from a friend.
EARVIN
So how did you end up over there,
man?
Steven returns to eating, but is more congenial than he was
moments before. He keeps his head up more to speak.
STEVEN
I was trying to find Ellipse Park.
EARVIN
What, you mean by the Washington
Monument?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
29.
STEVEN
I'm supposed to be meeting someone
in soon and I got lost trying to get
there.
EARVIN
You still having nightmares?
STEVEN
Sometimes.
EARVIN
You want to talk about it?
Steven stares back down at his fries, returning to his more
morose self.
STEVEN
No.
EARVIN
Few words. Well, I have to get to
work.
STEVEN
Back at the shelter?
EARVIN
Nope. My second job. I have to
lead a tour of French tourists through
the Smithsonian. You're more than
welcome to come along.
(in French, with
subtitles)
{The French love the morose.}
STEVEN
{I'm not morose, I'm thinking.}
EARVIN
You speak French?
Steven doesn't answer, his head still hanging low.
EARVIN (CONT'D)
Well, if you change you're mind,
tour starts at 1pm. And now that you
have your bag, I doubt you have much
else pressing your time. Catch you
later.
Earvin heads off. Steven, realizing he's been rather rude,
picks his head up and yells after him.
STEVEN
(yelling)
Thanks for lunch!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
30.
Earvin turns back and yells back to Steven.
EARVIN
(smiling)
No problem! After all, what are
friends for?
Earvin turns back and continues walking. Steven watches as
he goes.
INT. WHITE HOUSE - HALLWAY -- DAY
MOVING SHOT
Of Senator Benson trailing after the President's White House
Chief of Staff, JOHN SPENCER. Spencer is in his mid forties,
he's sleeves rolled up, his tie perfect. He's a busy man
and is obvious he doesn't want to be bothered by the Senator
right now.
SPENCER
I know you want to see the President,
Bob, but I can't get you in.
SENATOR BENSON
John, this is incredibly important.
If I could just...
Spencer stops in his tracks and turns to face the Senator.
SPENCER
Bob. I know what this is about.
(Benson tries to speak
up, but Spencer
continues)
I know you want us to restore funding
to Dr. Barnhardt's person SETI
program, but there isn't any money.
SENATOR BENSON
But there's money for new tanks and
aircraft carriers...
SPENCER
What would you like us to do John?
Protect ourselves from little green
men that may or may not return?
SENATOR BENSON
He wasn't little or green.
Spencer continues walking toward his office, Senator Benson
in tow.
SPENCER
I know, Senator. I know.
(MORE)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
31.
SPENCER (CONT'D)
My point is, we've got a great deal
more immediate threats to worry about.
Terrorism, poverty, AIDS. Hell,
we're even more concerned about Global
Warming than we are about this.
That should tell you something.
They reach Spencer's office. Spencer stops at the threshold
to it and spins around to face Senator Benson.
SPENCER (CONT'D)
Look, John. You're my friend. And
I appreciate all that you've done
for me.
SENATOR BENSON
Like your first job on my campaign.
SPENCER
Yes, sir. But I can't get you in to
see him about this. The moment
Klacktow or whom ever you're expecting
comes calling, trust me, you'll be
the first person we call. Now, if
you'll excuse me.
Spencer closes his office door.
CUT TO:
INT. BARNHARDTS HOUSE/LAB -- DAY
Same as before.
KLAATU
It's been good speaking with you,
Doctor. I hope you will consider
what I've said.
ANGLE FAVORING Klaatu as he stands and walks towards the
door, leaving Dr. Barnhardt with a look of bewilderment on
his face.
DR. BARNHARDT
Where are you going?
KLAATU
I have other friends I have to speak
with. Good day, Doctor. And good
luck.
Klaatu exits.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
32.
Dr. Barnhardt continues to just sit there, his look saying.
"What just happened?". He glances over at picture of his
Uncle.
CUT TO:
INT. LORETTA'S OFFICE -- DAY
Loretta sits behind her desk going through her papers.
ANGLE ON JULIUS appearing in her doorway. He raps lightly
on the door.
JULIUS
Ms. Neal? Are you busy?
Loretta looks up from her work.
LORETTA
Julius. No, it's ok. What can I do
for you? Are you settling in with
the other workers?
JULIUS
Yes. They're great people.
LORETTA
Good, that's good.
JULIUS
There was this guy I saw this morning.
He was having a nightmare and I just
sort of watched over him to make
sure he was ok.
LORETTA
Ok. What's the problem with him?
Did he steal something.
Julius walks over towards Loretta. He pulls an old photograph
out of the breast pocket of his jacket. He hands it to her.
Loretta glances at it then looks up at Julius.
LORETTA (CONT'D)
What am I looking at?
JULIUS
I was drinking one night in Saigon
and ran into an English photographer.
This man here.
Julius points to a man in the photograph. Loretta looks
down again and looks hard.
INSERT PICTURE
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
33.
Clear as day, Steven sits around a table with four other
men, including a young Julius, holding up a beer and smiling.
CUT TO:
INT. SMITHSONIAN ARTS AND INDUSTRIES BUILDING -- DAY
MOVING SHOT
Earvin leads a large group of French tourists through the
Smithsonian. Steven straggles behind, just inside ear shot
to hear Earvin spouting out French.
STEVEN
Glances to his right and stops as if he's been glued to the
ground. His stern expression changes to that of a joy and
sadness. RUSHING WATER, like a river, can be heard.
CLOSE SHOT
Of Steven as he stares at the painting.
CUT TO:
EXT. RIVER, RWANDA -- DAY
STEVEN
Walks along the banks of a river in Africa. The river is
fairly calm,
SOME WOMEN
Wash clothes in the water.
FAVORING STEVEN
As he steps to the waters edge, to drink some water from the
river. All dialogue in {} is French.
JANAE (O.S.)
{I wouldn't do that if I were you.}
Steven turns his head.
STEVENS POV
It is the same beautiful woman that was in his previous
memories. It is JANAE, a radiant beauty in a clean white
dress, who exudes intelligence and kindness. She is reading
"Utopia" by Thomas more under the shade of a large tree.
STEVEN
{Oh really? And why not? }
Janae points.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
34.
SOME CATTLE
Sitting in the water, relieving themselves.
JANAE
{This is their bathroom as well.}
Steven looks back smiling at her.
STEVEN
Do you have any suggestions?
She smiles knowingly.
CUT TO:
EXT. NYAMUGALI, RWANDA - DAY
Steven and Janae sit at a small sidewalk cafe having espresso.
Janae stirs her coffee with a stick daintily. Steven smiles
at her, openly and broadly. He is really taken with her.
JANAE
Looks up to see him staring.
STEVEN
Not a fan of foam?
JANAE
It tickles my nose.
Steven smiles even more broadly. Janae blushes. She changes
the subject.
JANAE (CONT'D)
How long have you been in Nyamugali?
STEVEN
I just got here.
JANAE
And what do you think of our fair
town?
STEVEN
It's nice. Pleasant.
JANAE
You don't feel out of place?
STEVEN
Out of place?
JANAE
Being the only white man in town.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
35.
STEVEN
That's not how I'd put it, but no.
JANAE
How would you say it?
STEVEN
Uh... being the only... American?
JANAE
Oh, we have other American's. Can
you not tell?
STEVEN
I tend to just see people. Not skin
color or national heritage. Does
that make me ignorant?
JANAE
(smiling)
No. I'd say that makes you... kind.
Steven smiles and dips his head down. He's not really use
to flirting, and it's obvious. He looks for something else
to divert the obvious nature of their conversation.
STEVEN
What's the book you're reading?
JANAE
"Utopia".
STEVEN
I've never heard of it.
JANAE
It's about... something we all strive
for but is ever elusive.
STEVEN
And what is that?
JANAE
Happiness. If everyone shared the
same heart, I think more people would
find it.
STEVEN
The heart or happiness?
JANAE
Both I think.
(nervously, but with
obvious overtones)
Do you have a place to stay while
you are here?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
36.
Steven looks are her with a smile. She coyly turns her head
down.
DR. BARNHARDT (V.O.)
I've got something I need to tell
you.
CUT TO:
INT. SENATOR BENSON'S OFFICE -- DAY
Senator Benson sits behind his desk and Dr. Barnhardt sits
in a guest chair.
CUT TO:
EXT. SMITHSONIAN PARK AREA -- DAY
STEVEN
Sits on a park bench. He stares off into the distance.
REVERSE ANGlE
We can see the Washington Monument in the distance, standing
tall surveying its surroundings.
OVER THE SHOULDER SHOT
Steven takes an orb out of his bag. It is a perfect silver
sphere that glimmers in the light.
EARVIN
Looks over from one of the exits to the building. He is
bidding his tour group good bye. He walks over to the Steven,
who is lost in thought.
EARVIN
You enjoy the tour.
Steven slips the orb back into his bag as Earvin sits down
next to him.
STEVEN
Yes, thank you.
EARVIN
You seemed even more distracted than
usual. Something on your mind.
STEVEN
Some of the art work reminded me of
someone. A friend of mine that died.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
37.
EARVIN
I'm sorry. You want to talk about
it.
STEVEN
No. Thank you, but no.
EARVIN
So what now?
STEVEN
Now...
Steven looks back at the Washington Monument, then down at
his watch. He looks back over at Earvin.
STEVEN (CONT'D)
We go home.
CUT TO:
INT. SENATOR BENSON'S OFFICE -- DAY
Same as before. Dr. Barnhardt rises from his seat. The two
men nod at each other and Dr. Barnhardt exits.
Senator Benson picks up the phone.
SENATOR BENSON
Get me Senator Maxwell on the phone.
CUT TO:
INT. GOSPEL RESCUE MINISTRIES - HALLWAY -- DAY
STEVEN AND EARVIN
Walk through the halls of the shelter.
LORETTA steps out of the doorway to her office. She locks
eyes at Steven.
EARVIN
Whoa, Loretta. What's up?
LORETTA
(staring at Steven)
We need to talk.
Loretta gestures toward her door. Steven walks inside.
Loretta follows.
EARVIN
Be careful. Steven and small rooms
have a nasty track record today.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
38.
Loretta closes the door.
CUT TO:
INT. GOSPEL RESCUE MINISTRIES - LORETTA'S OFFICE -- DAY
Loretta walks over to her desk and pulls the picture out of
a drawer.
STEVEN
Did I do something?
Loretta extends her hand out with the picture in it.
Steven gives her a quizzical look then glances at the picture.
STEVEN (CONT'D)
Is there something I'm supposed to
be seeing?
LORETTA
Is that you?
STEVEN
Is who me?
LORETTA
Don't play games with me Steven. Is
that you?
Steven looks at the picture again. He looks back to her.
STEVEN
How old is this thing anyway?
LORETTA
That guy looks an awful lot like
you.
STEVEN
I've also been told I look like
certain movie stars. Where was this
taken?
LORETTA
Saigon, Vietnam. Nineteen-sixty-
eight.
STEVEN
Nineteen... I was born in nineteen-
sixty-eight.
LORETTA
Steven, I put a lot of faith in you.
Blind faith, that you are a good
man. All I'm asking is a little bit
back in return.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
39.
Loretta and Steven lock eyes. He can see her compassion and
concern. She's been kind to him and he's tired of lying.
STEVEN
Ok. Ok. Fine. But I'm not sure you'll
believe me. But you're going to
want to sit down.
Steven gestures toward a chair. Loretta shakes her head and
sits. Steven sits down across from her. Pause.
LORETTA
Ok. Well?
Steven takes a deep breath. He's never told anyone what
he's about to tell her.
STEVEN
The summer of 1951 was the landing,
right?
LORETTA
You mean the alien.
STEVEN
Yes, named Klaatu. And he spent
time on Earth for a few days before
he left, mingling with regular people,
right?
LORETTA
(quizzically)
Riiiight....
STEVEN
Well, what if he wasn't the only
person that came down. What if while
he was only here for a few days,
someone else was designated to be
stationed on Earth a good while
longer. To make a final judgment as
to what action should be taken.
Loretta squints at him.
LORETTA
Have you been drinking?.
Steven holds the picture up for Loretta to see it.
STEVEN
This...
(pointing to one of
the men in the
picture.)
... is George Fitzgerald.
(MORE)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
40.
STEVEN (CONT'D)
He teaches high school in Norfolk,
Virginia. This...
(pointing to another
man)
... is Erol Warren. He died three
days after this photo was taken.
And this...
(pointing to Julius)
... is Julius Morton. And this...
(pointing to himself
in the photo)
... is me. When I was forty two.
Loretta stares at him in disbelief.
CUT TO:
INT. NURSING HOME - HELENS ROOM -- NIGHT
HELEN BENSON, a woman in her mid-80's with beautiful white
hair and an angelic expression, sits in a wheel chair staring
out the window. The snow has left a delightful layer of
white across the lawn at the home and she is enjoying watching
people walk by. She's just as beautiful as she was in 1951.
KNOCK-KNOCK.
HELEN
Yes?
Helen's attention turns to her door.
ANGLE ON THE DOORWAY
The door opens. An ORDERLY enters.
ORDERLY
Your brother's here to see you, Ms.
Benson.
HELEN
My brother?
Klaatu steps through the threshold, past the Orderly. He
removes his fedora.
KLAATU
Hello, Helen. It's good to see you.
Helen stares at Klatuu with an amazed bewilderment. Klaatu
walks over and sits in a chair next to her.
KLAATU (CONT'D)
It's been a long time.
(to orderly)
Thank you, I think we'll be all right.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
41.
The Orderly smiles and leaves.
HELEN
Is it? Is it you?
KLAATU
Yes, it's me.
HELEN
It's been so long.
KLAATU
Yes, it has.
HELEN
I thought you would have died by
now.
KLAATU
I still have a few years left in me.
HELEN
Have you spoken to Bobby?
KLAATU
No, I haven't. But I have plans to
see him.
HELEN
That's nice. How long are you in
town for?
KLAATU
Not terribly long. I'm just here to
pick someone up. Then I must leave
again.
HELEN
Are they family?
KLAATU
No. Just an associate.
HELEN
That's nice.
KLAATU
Helen, I have a question to pose
you. And you don't have to tell me
your answer right now.
HELEN
All right.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
42.
KLAATU
Very soon, this planet will be at a
tipping point. A place where no
amount of technology or prayer will
reverse its course. And I want to
take you away from it.
HELEN
Oh my. What do you mean?
KLAATU
In the very near future, this planet
will cease to support life. And I
want you to leave it with me.
HELEN
I see. And what about Bobby?
Klaatu stares into Helen's eyes. He's not sure what to say.
CUT TO:
INT. GOSPEL RESCUE MINISTRIES - KITCHEN -- NIGHT
Loretta and Steven sit on stools at a counter drinking coffee.
Loretta is enthralled with Steven's stories.
LORETTA
So how long have you been here?
STEVEN
Since the day we landed in '51.
LORETTA
How come I've never heard about you?
STEVEN
(sarcastically)
No one has, Loretta. That's why
they call it a secret.
Loretta smiles at his sarcasm, as does he.
STEVEN (CONT'D)
The idea was to blend in. Not stand
out.
LORETTA
How old were you when you landed?
STEVEN
Twenty-five.
LORETTA
Is that young in your... society?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
43.
STEVEN
Where I come from, twenty-five is
the age where life starts. Your
body is completely developed, like
it is here, but instead of beginning
its slow decline, ours maintains
itself for the next fifty or so years
before it starts to degrade. And
when I was selected for this task, I
was very young, very green, but eager
to learn everything I could from
this planet. The logic for us is
that you take someone that is young,
place them in the society and see
how they grow and change.
LORETTA
You don't miss your family? Your
friends?
STEVEN
Our lives are considerably different
from yours. There is no traditional
family structure where I come from.
You're raised in a large group
setting, by various mentors and
teachers.
LORETTA
It sounds kind of lonely.
STEVEN
Lonely?
LORETTA
Who did you go to when you skinned
your knee?
STEVEN
The nurse.
LORETTA
And she kissed it and made it better?
STEVEN
(smiling)
Uh, no. She didn't. She disinfected
it and sent me on my way.
LORETTA
Sounds like there's something missing
in this great society of yours.
STEVEN
Which is?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
44.
LORETTA
Love.
STEVEN
It's just... different. A little
more, logical. A little less...
feeling.
LORETTA
Sounds like a cold place.
STEVEN
It really... sort of...
(laughing)
Yeah, a little.
LORETTA
So you've been here for fifty years.
What have you been doing with your
time?
STEVEN
Traveling, mostly. There's been a
great deal to absorb. I only spent
so much of my time on interpersonal
relationships.
LORETTA
So what, your saying you've been
here half a century and don't have
any friends?
STEVEN
I've had friends. It's just... it's
hard to keep them when they are
getting older so much faster than
you are and are frailer than you
are.
LORETTA
So why this? Why tell me?
STEVEN
I'll be leaving, very soon. And I
thought... I'd ask if...
Loretta's eyes wide and she sets down her mug. Steven
acknowledges the look on her face then turns his head around.
TWO POLICE OFFICERS advance on Loretta and Steven.
POLICE OFFICER
Sir, I'm going to have to ask you to
come with me.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
45.
STEVEN
What? What's this about? Am I under
arrest?
POLICE OFFICER
Please stand up and put your hands
behind your back.
Steven does so and the Police Officer cuffs him.
POLICE OFFICER (CONT'D)
Sir, you are under arrest for robbery,
assault, and battery. You have the
right to remain silent...
LORETTA
This must be some kind of a mistake.
The Police Officer continues with the Miranda Rights as he
pulls Steven off of his stool. Steven eyes his bag.
Loretta looks down and pushes the bag under the table with
his foot.
STEVEN
I'll be back.
The Police tug at his cuffs and lead him down the hall.
Loretta watches as they lead him off. She looks back down
at his bag.
CUT TO:
EXT. NURSING HOME -- NIGHT
KLAATU
Steps out the front doors of the Nursing Home. He puts on
his hat and heads down the street.
A BLACK SUV
Turns its headlights on begins to pull forward.
P.O.V. BLACK SUV
FIVE US MARSHALS watch as Klaatu walks down the street.
Klaatu maintains a casual pace. He makes a right down an
alley. As the SUV pulls up to view down the alley, the
Marshal see Klaatu has begun sprinting down the alley. They
gun the engine and follow him down alley.
CUT TO:
EXT. ALLEY WAY -- CONTINUOUS
The SUV pulls up and the Marshals get out.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
46.
They look around and can't seem to find Klaatu. He's
disappeared despite the alley appearing to have no exits.
SCREECH. A loud-high pitch noise drops the Marshals to their
knees, the pain of the sound too much for them to bare.
KLAATU
Steps from the shadows, holding some kind of device emitting
the sound. He turns up the volume, the Marshals writhe.
KLAATU
I'm sorry gentlemen, but I really
must be going.
Klaatu heads toward the end of the alley way.
A MARSHAL
In a momentary fit of consciousness grabs his leg and tasers
Klaatu.
KLAATU
Falls to the ground, visibly shaken by the electric shock,
but not totally out.
THE MARSHALS
Regain their wits and the one with the taser moves to shock
him again, but another grabs his arm.
US MARSHAL
They want him as unharmed as possible.
The Marshals cuff and shackles Klaatu and dump him in the
back of the SUV.
CUT TO:
INT. POLICE STATION - INTERROGATION ROOM -- NIGHT
Steven sits behind a table, still handcuffed, getting
questioned by DETECTIVE #1.
STEVEN
I don't have time for this.
DETECTIVE #1
I'm sorry to have disrupted your
time table. But we have this video
tape....
Detective #1 picks up a remote control and turns on a tape
of Steven robbing the Pawn Shop.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
47.
DETECTIVE #1 (CONT'D)
... that says you did. So if you'll
just sign this piece of paper, I'd
appreciate it.
Detective #1 slides the paper and a pen toward Steven. Steven
looks down at it and then back up at Detective #1.
STEVEN
A confession?
DETECTIVE #1
Just may be blind, but she can still
read.
CUT TO:
INT. POLICE STATION - INTERROGATION VIEWING ROOM --
CONTINUOUS
DETECTIVE #2 stands watching through the two way mirror as a
video camera records Steven's interrogation. DETECTIVE #3
enters with a file and hands it to Detective #2.
DETECTIVE #2
So what do you have?
DETECTIVE #3
Social Security number, a few previous
addresses, but that's about it. And
the Social Security number must be a
fake because it says that he started
collecting it ten years ago.
DETECTIVE #2
So we've got him for defrauding the
Federal government, too.
CUT TO:
INT. SECRET GOVERNMENT INSTALLATION -- NIGHT
Klaatu sits behind a table, much like Stevens, hand cuffed.
The room lacks a viewing window and two GUARDS holding M-
16's stand sentry.
MR. DAVIS, a CIA Interrogator enters, carrying a briefcase.
He's a man of average height and less than intimidating
demeanor. His presence belies the fierceness beneath his
skin.
Klaatu is visibly not pleased.
INTERROGATOR
Mr. Klaatu.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
48.
KLAATU
Just Klaatu.
INTERROGATOR
Of course. I apologize. Klaatu.
My name is Mr. Davis. Do you mind
if I sit?
Klaatu doesn't respond. The Interrogator takes a seat.
DAVIS
I've been assigned the task of
interrogating you.
KLAATU
To what end?
DAVIS
I need to know why you are here
Klaatu. Why have you returned?
KLAATU
I'm sorry. But I can't tell you
that.
DAVIS
It's a simple question. You were
very forth coming in your last visit,
just before you left.
KLAATU
That message was for the world, not
one person.
DAVIS
I understand. Is there some other
message you wish to convey to the
world? Is that why you have returned?
KLAATU
I wonder, Mr. Davis, what makes you
think that under these conditions I
would be interested in telling you
anything?
DAVIS
I grant you, they are not ideal...
KLAATU
I was electrocuted and dragged here,
Mr. Davis. I don't recall Mr. Harley
being so violent.
DAVIS
No, but I do remember that previously
you were shot. Or had you forgotten.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
49.
Klaatu doesn't answer.
DAVIS (CONT'D)
We've become a more peaceful people,
Klaatu. A simple shock is much safer
compared to being shot, wouldn't you
say?
Klaatu still doesn't answer. He seethes in his seat.
DAVIS (CONT'D)
The Earth is coming together in ways
you couldn't have imagined. And in
order to maintain that togetherness,
that sense of freedom, the governments
of the world have given us carte
blanche to ascertain your exact
intentions. You do understand what
carte blanche means, don't you?
Klaatu is still silent.
DAVIS (CONT'D)
It means, they have give us the power
to do whatever is necessary to get
the information from you that we
need. And I'm sure are aware that
my government has been fighting a
war for some time now, and we've
gotten very good at gathering the
information we need.
Davis takes his briefcase and places it out on the table.
Klaatu's eyes follow it carefully.
DAVIS (CONT'D)
Now, normally, I'd spend a lot of
time asking you questions, trying to
figure out what the best way to get
the answers I need. But unfortunately
I'm a bit pressed for time. So I'm
going to give you one more chance.
Why are you here?
Klaatu is the very epitome of a statue. He's glare his only
response.
DAVIS (CONT'D)
Your unwillingness to cooperate I'm
afraid leaves me with no other choice.
Davis opens his briefcase.
THE BRIEFCASE
Contains various bottles and syringe's.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
50.
KLAATU
You should know that there's nothing
you can inject me with that my body
can't break down.
DAVIS
Oh yes, I know that. Our tests of
your blood from 1951 indicate that.
Davis reaches inside the case and pulls up the false bottom
revealing a notepad and pen. He takes a seat across from
Klaatu.
DAVIS (CONT'D)
That's why we're going to try another
tactic.
Davis motions for the Guards. The Guards approach Klaatu.
GUARD ONE grabs Klaatu and lifts him from his seat.
DAVIS (CONT'D)
Now, this may hurt a little.
GUARD TWO hits Klaatu across the face.
CUT TO:
INT. LORETTA'S OFFICE -- NIGHT
Loretta is staring at Steven's sack on her desk. Earvin
knocks on her door.
EARVIN
You called. What's up?
LORETTA
Come in and close the door.
Earvin steps inside and shuts the door behind him. Loretta
opens the bag and rummages through, pulling out various
earthly looking items.
EARVIN
What are you doing?
LORETTA
Looking for answers.
Loretta pulls a Glock 9x19 hand gun out of the bag.
EARVIN
Whoa. What do you think that is
for?
LORETTA
I don't know. Did you know he had
this?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
51.
EARVIN
From what I saw today, he would barely
even need that.
Loretta daintily sets it down on the desk.
Loretta reaches in and finds something of interest. She
pulls out the perfectly smooth orb from the bag.
EARVIN (CONT'D)
I saw Steven with that earlier.
LORETTA
Did he say what it is?
EARVIN
No. But I know that's the thing he
was looking for the last month.
LORETTA
What do you suppose it...
The begins to glow. Two beams of light emanate from the
ball and lock onto Earvin and Loretta's foreheads.
CUT TO:
EXT. TROPICAL BEACH -- DAY
The beach is beautiful and spotless. It is pristine and
spotless, the surf rolling in. The view is slightly
distorted, almost as if the place is artificial. It's
slightly fuzzy around the edges, like a haze.
LORETTA AND EARVIN
Stand on the beach, the surf lapping against the sand.
STEVEN (O.S.)
Well...
The two turn around. They see a twenty-five year old Steven,
dressed in a silver space outfit.
STEVEN (CONT'D)
Let's get started.
CUT TO:
INT. NURSING HOME - HELENS ROOM -- NIGHT
HELEN
Sits in a wheel chair in her room, staring out the window.
KNOCK. Helen turns to look back.
SENATOR BENSON
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
52.
Stands at the door. A US Marshal stands behind him.
SENATOR BENSON
Mom?
HELEN
Bobby!
Helen's face lights up. The Senator doesn't visit often
enough.
Senator Benson nods to the Marshal, who steps outside and
stands sentry in the hall. Shutting the door behind him.
Senator Benson walks over and kisses his mother on the
forehead. He sits down on the bed next to her.
SENATOR BENSON
It's good to see you, Mom.
HELEN
It's good to see you too. You don't
visit often enough.
SENATOR BENSON
I know, mom. It's busy on the hill.
HELEN
It's all right. How have you been?
Have you been eating enough?
SENATOR BENSON
Yes.
HELEN
That's good. You work too hard.
SENATOR BENSON
I know. I know. I wanted to ask
you something...
HELEN
You know, you should really think
about the future. You're not getting
any younger?
SENATOR BENSON
I know that someone has been to see
you recently. Klaatu.
HELEN
Oh yes. He just left recently.
Such a nice man.
SENATOR BENSON
Mom. I need to know what he said,
if anything, to you.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
53.
HELEN
You mean he hasn't seen you yet?
SENATOR BENSON
No. Why do you ask?
HELEN
When he left me, he said he was going
to see you. That he was going to
ask you...
Helen cuts herself off. She's said too much.
SENATOR BENSON
Tell me what mom?
HELEN
If he hasn't seen you.. then...
SENATOR BENSON
What? Then what mom?
HELEN
I'm sorry.
Senator Benson rubs his face in frustration. He looks down
at his mother's lap. One hand is under the quilt covering
her lap, moving.
SENATOR BENSON
Mom, what are you holding?
Helen looks away sheepishly. Senator Benson reaches over
and flips over the quilt. Helen is holding a shiny silver
sphere, much smaller than the one Loretta held. Senator
Benson takes it in his hand.
SENATOR BENSON (CONT'D)
What is this?
HELEN
I'm not supposed to tell.
SENATOR BENSON
Mom. You need to. This is very
important. A lot of lives are at
stake. Klaatu's life is at stake.
Helen looks back at Senator Benson, with worry in her eyes.
HELEN
He said if you came to see me before
he did, that I was to squeeze it.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
54.
SENATOR BENSON
And what does that do?
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE
A silvery-green, leaf-shaped like SPACE SHIP moves from the
starry, silent field of space and begins it's decent to Earth.
The friction from the atmosphere whips fire around the ship.
It moves toward North America.
CUT TO:
INT. POLICE STATION - INTERROGATION ROOM -- NIGHT
Steven still sits being questioned by Detective #1. He's
tired of the attempts Detective #1, his head cocked back
looking to the sky.
STEVEN
I told you. I have nothing to do
with that.
DETECTIVE #1
Look, we have the video. We have
the pawn shop owners testimony.
Signing the confession will just...
There's a green glow behind Steven's back.
DETECTIVE #1 (CONT'D)
What the hell is that?
Detective #1 gets up and walks over to look behind Steven's
back.
STEVEN'S WRIST WATCH
Is glowing. Steven raises his head back from its cocked
position.
STEVEN
They're early... I apologize.
DETECTIVE #1
For what?
STEVEN
Quickly gets to his feet, running his shoulder into Detective
#1's stomach, slamming him against the wall. He leaps in
the air, moving his handcuffs to the front of his body by
passing them under his feet.
He grabs Detective #1 and tosses him through the viewing
window, making the Detectives inside recoil to a wall.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
55.
Steven leaps through the broken glass grabs Detective #2's
gun as he is trying to unholster his gun and swings around,
pistol whipping Detective #3 as he is reaching for his weapon.
He then turns around, and puts the gun in Detective #2's
face.
STEVEN
Undo the cuffs.
DETECTIVE #2
You'll never get out of here.
STEVEN
Un-do-the-cuffs.
CUT TO:
INT. SECRET GOVERNMENT INSTALLATION -- NIGHT
MOVING SHOT
From Davis, who sits at the table, tapping his pen on a legal
pad. There's nothing on it.
DAVIS
Well this has been frustrating.
Extremely frustrating for that matter.
I knew you would be tough, but I
didn't think it would take this long.
I suppose I just assumed, incorrectly,
that you would "break" far faster.
Arrogance on my part. I take my
work very seriously and pride myself
on the speed at which I can illicit
information from an individual. But
you, my friend. You are proving a
tough cookie to crack.
KLAATU
Sits in the corner, bloodied and beaten. His face is nearly
unrecognizable. One eye is shut completely from swelling.
But his hateful glare streams from his one good eye at Davis.
If he could move, he'd tear him apart.
DAVIS
Rises from his seat and walks toward Klaatu.
DAVIS (CONT'D)
I should have known that you would
be harder. So we'll just keep trying.
As long as it takes. So I'll ask
you one more time, what is your
mission here?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
56.
KLAATU
You have laws that make this illegal.
Davis towers over Klaatu.
DAVIS
You know for a superior race, you're
not very bright. Have you ever heard
of a signing statement?
Davis crouches down next to Klaatu and whispers in his ear.
DAVIS (CONT'D)
You know, you guys should really
learn to read the fine print. So
out of interest for your own well
being, I'll ask you again: what is
your mission here?
Klaatu sits unmoving, his good eye holding fast on Davis.
Klaatu looks away. He's not interested in cooperating.
Davis rolls his eyes and stands. He motions for Guard #1 to
continue beating Klaatu.
As the Guard is about to strike him, a bright green light
emanates from behind Klaatu's back. The Guard leans Klaatu
forward. Davis pears over Klaatu's shoulder behind his back.
A WATCH
The same as Steven's glows from Klaatu's wrist.
DAVIS (CONT'D)