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"FLASH GORDON"
Screenplay by
Sydney Cuthbert
Based on characters created by
Alex Raymond
1167 To-lani Farm Road
Stone Mountain, Ga. 30083
914.297.8342
s.l.cuthbert@att.net
EXT. SPACE
A vast sea of stars stretches off to infinity. A bolt of cosmic
lightning becomes the Flash Gordon logo. There's a RUMBLE like
THUNDER, and a BOOMING VOICE:
MING (VO)
Pathetic Earthlings! WHO will save
you now?
Diabolical LAUGHTER echoes through the cosmos.
We MOVE past Jupiter... Saturn... Venus... Mars... toward the
planet Earth. An ominous RUMBLE builds -- and a swirling hyper-
space tunnel opens. Deep inside it is a glistening planet,
surrounded by a dark nimbus.
ENERGY BEAMS from the vortex assault Earth's atmosphere. THUNDER.
Dark clouds swirl violently across the planet's surface.
EXT. EARTH - VARIOUS
-- New York City's rocked by earthquakes...
-- In Miami palms bend and sway in a raging snowstorm...
-- A tsunami rips across the Sahara desert...
-- In London lightning BLASTS trees, cars, buildings to fiery
ruin...
-- San Francisco's Golden Gate bridge sways... cars, trucks,
people fall into the bay far below...
-- Skyscrapers are hammered by basketball-sized hail.
INSERT - NEWSPAPER HEADLINES
"WORLD COMING TO AN END!" "STRANGE
NEW PLANET RUSHING TOWARD EARTH --
ONLY MIRACLE CAN SAVE US SAYS
SCIENCE!"
EXT. NEW YORK'S TIMES SQUARE - DAY
Panicked crowds stare up at the electronic billboard as it
continues to scroll its dire predictions.
2.
EXT. PLANE - NIGHT (STORM)
A twin-prop passenger liner braves the lightning-wracked skies.
THUNDER booms in the distance. SUPER: "JANUARY 7, 1934."
INT. PLANE
FLASH GORDON, 20, blonde, well-built, dozes in an aisle seat,
unperturbed by the turbulence. Around him, other nervous
passengers CHATTER and peer fearfully out the windows. Across
the aisle:
DALE ARDEN, a stunning, 18-year old raven-haired beauty shuts
her eyes tight at a flash of lightning. The cabin rises and
drops suddenly.
DALE
Uh! Ohhhh! Oh!
Flash opens an eye, smiles.
Dale grips the seat tightly, praying silently as the plane
lurches like a rollercoaster. Flash slips into the seat next to
her. She starts -- grabs his arm tightly as the plane rocks.
FLASH
You okay, Miss?
DALE
Believe it or not... I-I'm not
usually such a powder puff, I -- OH!
FLASH
It's okay, really. This isn't your
usual trans-atlantic. I'm, uh,
Raymond Gordon. Most folks call me
Flash.
He offers a hand. Lightning illuminates the cabin! She buries
her face against his shoulder, smiles shakily.
DALE
I-I know... All-American
everything... cover of Time...
Olympic decathalon champ... ohhh...
listen, d'you mind...?
FLASH
One condition... tell me your name?
I'm at a distinct disadvantage.
3.
DALE
D-Dale Arden. Soph. Chem major.
Vassar. Budding basket case.
FLASH
Ahhh, you're not doin' so bad, Miss
Arden.
DALE
Dale. This... this doesn't bother
you, Flash?
FLASH
Truth?
She looks into his eyes, shakes her head. Flash laughs, peers
out the window. Dale pulls the shade down.
DALE
Why isn't there a transatlantic
train for days like this?
Violent crash of THUNDER -- the plane dips sharply.
DALE
Ohhh! Talk to me, Flash. Please...
FLASH
Uh, okay, let's see... uhm, just
back from a swim meet in Naples...
headed up to Boston to see my dad...
DALE
Professor David Gordon. I went to
one of his astronomy lectures last
year. He's quite impressive.
FLASH
Has his moments. Matter of fact,
he's one of the chrome-domes
workin' on this freak weather --
DALE
Don't remind me! Don't remind me...
FLASH
Sorry... So, are you gonna --
A violent lurch almost dumps them into the aisle.
DALE
Ohhhhh --
4.
She buries her face against his shoulder. Flash looks around
the cabin, now a little concerned.
EXT. PLANE - NIGHT (STORM)
Meteors streak down from the roiling skies. Lightning blazes
around them. Ming's diabolical LAUGHTER echoes through the
heavens.
INT. PLANE
Flash and Dale tense. What the hell was that? Passengers look
out the windows, panicking.
DALE
What was -- oh, my god -- ohmygod...
ohmy --
FLASH
Easy, Dale... Stewardess?
A harried STEWARDESS moves down the tilting aisle. Flash half-
rises from his seat.
STEWARDESS
Please, sir, keep your -- ohhhh!
A violent impact dumps her into his lap. The passengers cry out
in alarm.
CAPTAIN
(on intercom)
Ladies and gentlemen -- there's
nothing to worry about. We're
presently experiencing a slight --
FLASH! EXPLOSION! The plane pitches violently. Passengers
SCREAM, panic. Flash jumps to his feet, runs for the cockpit.
DALE
Flash -- !
FLASH
Stay put! Be right back!
INT. COCKPIT
Flash forces the door open, whipped by rain, gale-force winds.
He and the Stewardess see a gaping hole where the windshield was.
No crew.
5.
FLASH
Oh, boy... this is not good...
He slips into the pilot's seat, grabs the wheel. Throws a
worried glance at the instruments. It doesn't help. The
Stewardess watches, terrified.
STEWARDESS
Please tell me you know how to fly
this!
FLASH
Uh, kinda... I'm takin' lessons.
Didn't get to landings... yet.
Don't you?
She shakes her head, eyes wide with terror.
FLASH
Better get 'em outta here. I'll
hold it as long as I can. Go! GO!
She staggers into the cabin. Flash wrestles the shuddering
controls, lashed by wind and rain.
Ahead and below, mountainous red-lit THUNDERCLOUDS rise.
Lightning flashes in their depths.
EXT. PLANE - NIGHT (STORM)
Parachutes bloom as the plane lists. Its ENGINES falter.
INT. PLANE
Flash staggers through the crazily-tilting plane, toward Dale
and the Stewardess, who holds the last two 'chutes.
FLASH
Great... Do you trust me?
Dale nods, terrified. Flash slips into one 'chute, the
Stewardess into the other. She hesitates in the door, looks
back, uncertain.
FLASH
Go, we're right behind you! Go --
GO!!!
She bails. Flash pulls Dale to the door. The engines SPUTTER
and miss. Dale shrinks back against Flash, eyes wide, shakes
her head.
6.
DALE
N-no, Flash -- I can't!
FLASH
It's better if you're still in the
air when you open the 'chute.
DALE
I never -- I'm -- oh, God --
FLASH
Listen -- take a deep breath, we go
on three, okay? Okay, Dale?
Whipped by fierce winds, Dale looks down --
Storm-wracked clouds rush toward them, shot through with
lightning. Flaming hail is everywhere. The engines miss --
SPUTTER -- sieze up --
Dale looks at Flash, takes a shaky breath, nods.
FLASH
Okay. One --
He bails. Dale lets out a startled SCREAM --
EXT. PLANE - NIGHT (STORM)
Their 'chute whips away in the HOWLING wind. A large chunk of
flaming rock VAPORIZES the stricken plane. As they hurtle past,
Dale's terrified SCREAM trails.
EXT. A LARGE FARMHOUSE - NIGHT (STORM)
Fiery hail ignites trees, grass, fences. A large greenhouse is
nearby, with several broken panes.
ZARKOV (OS)
(German accent)
Statler?! STAAAAT -- LERRRRR!!!
INT. GREENHOUSE - NIGHT (STORM)
DR. HANS ZARKOV, 50ish, angular, intense, bearded, stalks
through a 1930's Mad Scientist lab: sparking Tesla coils,
SCREAMING turbines, crackling Jacob's ladders. The nose of a
chromed, art-deco spaceship sticks through the roof.
In the doorway, he shakes his fist.
7.
ZARKOV
You hear me, you coward?! DAMN you
all to --
SCREAMING dive -- distant CRASH! He squints up at:
A parachute, tossed in the rain and sizzling hail.
Zarkov gapes. A crafty smile spreads across his face. He rubs
his hands together delightedly.
EXT. FARMYARD - NIGHT (STORM)
Flash and Dale land hard, she falls onto her delicious behind.
DALE
Uh! Ohhhhh -- !
Flash helps her up, as the 'chute's whipped away. He yells
above the HOWLING wind:
FLASH
Are you all --
WHACK! She lets him have it across the face.
DALE
You scared the hell out of me!
Shaking, she hugs him tight. Flash smiles, holds her
protectively as he looks around.
FLASH
C'mon -- let's get outta this.
They run toward the house, dodging burning hail, smoking craters.
INT. FARMHOUSE - NIGHT
They stagger in, shake themselves off. Dale suddenly moves
closer, grips Flash's arm. A shadowy figure is framed in a
doorway, backlit by the eerie lab and lightning.
FLASH
Oh -- sorry, pal, we didn't --
Zarkov steps into the light. Creepy.
ZARKOV
Pshaw! Don't give it another
thought, young man! Don't!
(MORE)
8.
ZARKOV (CONT'D)
Come in -- come in, yah? Br-r-r-r!
Nasty weather, eh? Tsk, tsk. Oh,
my, but you're soaked... here, let
me...
He extends two towels with his left hand, keeps the right in his
labcoat pocket. As they dry off, he stares, smiling strangely.
Dale's getting creeped out.
ZARKOV
So, little trouble mit your
aeroplane, eh? Tsk, tsk. Tsk!
FLASH
Uh, yeah. Oh -- Flash Gordon.
This's Dale Arden.
He extends a hand, Zarkov holds out his left. Awkward moment.
Flash compensates, they shake hands.
ZARKOV
Pleased to meet you -- pleased as
punch!
FLASH
Thanks. Where are we, anyway?
ZARKOV
Just outside Washington. Would you
care for something warm? A little
He mimes taking a snort of booze.
ZARKOV
-- eh? Eh?
DALE
Uh, we don't wanna --
ZARKOV
Pfah! Non-sense! Come.
He backs out, his eyes gleaming in the dim light.
ZARKOV
Come. This waaaaaay...
He backs into the greenhouse. Flash follows, Dale hangs back.
DALE
I... I know that guy.
9.
FLASH
Oh, yeah? Who is he?
DALE
I don't know.
(off his look)
I mean I can't place him. But I've
seen him... somewhere. And all
this...
FLASH
Well, if he's got a car, maybe we
can get a lift into town. Then --
DALE
I... I don't know... he's...
FLASH
What? What?
Zarkov's head pops into view, he crooks a finger at them.
ZARKOV
Thiiisss waaaaaaayyyyyy...
He disappears into the lab. They exchange a look: "Hmn..."
INT. GREENHOUSE/LAB - NIGHT (STORM)
Dale freezes when she sees the rocketship. There's just nothing
else it could possibly be. Zarkov rummages amiably through
nearby cabinets.
ZARKOV
Tea! We have tea... let's see
now... ah -- and, uh, somewhere in
here -- ah! Coffee! I think there
might also be some cocoa...
DALE
Oh, god... now I remember...
She nudges Flash, points at the gleaming ship.
FLASH
Wow, that's some piece of --
Zarkov looks up sharply, sighs. Dale eyes him carefully.
DALE
Doctor Zarkov... I presume?
10.
FLASH
Zark -- Hans Zarkov?! You mean the
nut that -- oh...
He grins sheepishly as Zarkov clicks his heels, bows.
ZARKOV
One and the same. Ach, don't
worry... it's been years since I've
attempted to rule the world, eh?
He chuckles. Dale slips behind Flash, who smiles uncertainly.
FLASH
Uh, okay... uh, doc, lissen, we,
uh, we were wondering --
ZARKOV
Can I tell you a little story,
children?
They exchange wary glances. He runs a hand through his thinning
hair.
ZARKOV
Where to begin... ach... once upon
a time, there was a man, a scientist
of some note, I dare say... quite
brilliant... and he propounded a
rather unsual theory --
DALE
-- that a newly discovered rogue
planet was the source of all the
unexplained phenomenon we've been
experiencing?
Zarkov beams, surprised, but pleased.
FLASH
Huh? What planet? What --
Zarkov puts an arm around them, walks them toward the lab.
ZARKOV
Bravo! Bra-vo, My Girl! Verrry
impressive. You are a student of
the sciences, yah?
(before she can reply)
Splendid! Splen-did! I always
say -- first class minds, unclouded
by the dubious benefits of
testosterone, eh?
(MORE)
11.
ZARKOV (CONT'D)
Well, to continue -- Ach! Dumkopf!
I am such a terrible host! I'm
sorry, what would you prefer?
DALE
If I remember correctly, you also
said that if one were to travel to
this planet --
FLASH
Huh?
(laughs)
By what? Greyhound?
ZARKOV
Not quite.
(grand gesture)
By rocket ship!
Flash and Dale exchange a glance: "Uh-oh".
FLASH
Uh-huh. Y'know what, Doc, it looks
like you're pretty busy here, why
don't we --
Zarkov works feverishly at his consoles. Lights glow, machines
HUM. His right hand stays in his labcoat pocket.
ZARKOV
I've been observing it closely.
It's made several corrections in
trajectory, I believe it is
inhabited -- and guided by
intelligent design. Guided!
FLASH
Huh? You mean someone's -- what --
drivin' it toward us? Okaaaaay...
Zarkov bustles around the lab. Flash jerks his head toward the
door. He and Dale edge carefully toward it.
ZARKOV
Ehhhh... in a manner of speaking.
If I'm correct -- and I assure you,
I am -- THINK of the implications!
Think!
He turns toward them, wild-eyed. They freeze in mid-step,
nervous smiles frozen on their faces.
12.
ZARKOV
A new world -- who knows what
wonders await... it boggles the
mind... boggles!
FLASH
So you're gonna what... zip over
and say hello? Bring 'em a cake?
In that?
Zarkov sizes them up. A strange, intense look comes over his
face. Dale quickly interjects:
DALE
Most of the scientific community
disagreed with you, didn't they?
Zarkov sputters. Turns away. Angrily flips switches, adjusts
dials, checks readouts. Outside, the fury of the storm increases.
Hailstones CRASH through more panes. Flash and Dale look up
nervously.
ZARKOV
Pfah! Dumkopfs! Didn't the so-
called "Scientific Community" once
claim rocks -- meteors -- could not
possibly fall from the sky? Hah?!?
That heavier-than-air flight was
impossible?! Bah!
FLASH
He's got a point. My dad says that
one of the problems with science
is --
Dale pinches him, a finger to her lips. Zarkov looks up.
ZARKOV
Eh? Ah -- Gord -- Professor Gordon
of Cambridge! Yah, of course.
Another dumkopf! Pfft! Did he
send you to spy on me?! Spy?!
Flash starts to reply, Dale grabs his arm.
DALE
Uh, well, you probably still have
tons of packing to do...
ZARKOV
My assistant lost his nerve. I
should have expected it. He was
only a C student, you know. C!
13.
Dale tugs Flash's arm. They back slowly toward the door.
FLASH
Heh. Uh, kids today, huh? Hey,
listen, you have a safe --
Zarkov turns. There's a luger in his right hand, pointed at
them. They freeze, Dale clings to Flash, their eyes locked on
Zarkov.
ZARKOV
I'm sorry to have to do this,
children. I truly am, but I haf no
choice...
Flash pulls Dale protectively behind him.
Zarkov holds the gun on them. Lightning -- THUNDER. The
storm's getting worse by the minute.
FLASH
Look, Doc... let's not get cra --
Dale pokes him, shakes her head. Zarkov chuckles.
ZARKOV
Quite all right, lad. My colleagues
have been saying that for years.
Years!
DALE
L-listen, why don't we talk this
over? We --
ZARKOV
Oh no, no, we have no time, My Girl!
Dear me, no... no time at all!
He glances at his watch, worried.
ZARKOV
In fact, if my calculations are
correct -- and I assure you, they
are -- we should have taken off
three and a half minutes ago. So,
if you don't mind...?
Shrugs apologetically, motions with the gun.
ZARKOV
Hurry, please. Hurry.
DALE
Flash, maybe we should --
14.
FLASH
Hey now, look, this' gone far
enough. You don't really wanna
hurt anyone do you, Doc?
ZARKOV
Eh? Oh, dear me, no...
They relax. He shoots out a window pane behind them. Dale
squeaks, jumps behind Flash. Zarkov shrugs.
ZARKOV
But desperate times... the world is
in terrible, terrible danger. I
need a pilot -- co-pilot,
actually -- to help me navigate.
Quick quick quick quick quick quick
quick!
FLASH
Okay... easy... easy -- look, let
her go, and I'll go with you, okay?
DALE FLASH
Flash, you can't -- Shush!
DALE
Don't shush me!
FLASH
Will you cut it out?! I'm tryin'
to get you out of this, for cryin'
out --
DALE
Well don't be so high-handed! I'm
not some chippie you picked up by
the pool, you --
FLASH
Look, dammit, I --
ZARKOV
Oh, chilllllldrennnnn --
They look up, annoyed, into the gun barrel.
ZARKOV
Get -- IN -- the -- damn -- ROCKET!!!
They jump, back toward the rocketship, up a spiraling ramp --
across a steel catwalk several stories high. Obscured by clouds
of steam, Dale's foot slips, she almost falls. Flash catches
her. As they continue back:
15.
DALE
Uh, didn't Dr. Mocenigo of Sao
Paolo --
ZARKOV
Grrrr! That numskull wouldn't know
a legitimate scientific phenomenon
if it bit him in the ass!
FLASH
Hey -- there's a lady --
ZARKOV
Sorry... sorry... I've been -- I
tell you what, when this is over,
I'll take you both out for a nice
dinner, hmn -- provided there is
anyplace left to EAT -- OKAY?! MOVE!
He chambers the pistol. They back toward the rocketship.
INT. ZARKOV'S ROCKETSHIP - MAIN CABIN
They back in. Zarkov seals the hatch, covering them with the
gun as he does a pre-flight check. Flash and Dale exchange
desperate looks.
FLASH
All right then, suppose I refuse --
DALE
Flash --
FLASH
No, wait... and you shoot me. Then
what? You still won't have a pilot.
Zarkov hesitates, thinking it over. Dale clings to Flash's arm,
her eyes on Zarkov. Zarkov's suspicious.
ZARKOV
Good point. If I release her...
you will promise to behave? Promise?
Flash grins disarmingly. Zarkov lowers the gun -- Flash jumps
him.
DALE
Flash!
They struggle all over the cabin. Flash gets the gun, shoves
Zarkov backward into a console. Zarkov falls to the deck, out
cold. His hand despresses a SWITCH.
16.
Dale rushes to Flash, hugs him.
DALE
Of all the -- you big lunk! You
could have been --
She stops. The rocketship vibrates... a powerful RUMBLE builds
deep in its bowels.
DALE
Uh-oh...
Flash rams a shoulder against the hatch, and winces in pain.
Locked. He looks at Zarkov, out cold on the deck.
FLASH
Uh, okay... maybe that wasn't such
a good idea...
DALE
DO something -- hurry!
Flash tries to revive Zarkov. No good.
FLASH
Great...
DALE
Can't you stop this thing?!
Flash leaps to the controls. He hasn't got a clue.
DALE
Oh, God -- we're gonna DIE --
FLASH
Hang ON!
They grab onto each other, whatever else is handy. The ROAR is
deafening. The cabin shakes --
INT. GREENHOUSE/LAB - NIGHT
The rocketship rises on a flaming column -- the lab EXPLODES --
INT. ZARKOV'S ROCKETSHIP - MAIN CABIN
Dale's scream is lost in the thundering ROAR. They're crushed
to the deck by G-Forces.
17.
EXT. SPACE - EARTH
They hurtle up -- up -- and away. Rain and flaming hail lash
the ship -- wind HOWLS -- lightning rages.
INT. ZARKOV'S ROCKETSHIP - MAIN CABIN
Dale pulls herself up, clinging to webbing straps hanging from
the ceiling. She stares out the port at the rapidly receding
planet, hyperventilating.
DALE
Oh, god... ohgodohgodohgodohgod...
Zarkov GROANS.
FLASH
Zarkov! Atta boy, Doc, c'mon --
He helps him up. Zarkov looks around, groggy.
FLASH
C'mon, snap out of it, Doc! You
gotta stop this crazy thing! Doc --
ZARKOV
It's working? IT'S WORKING! I
knew it would! Knew it!
He laughs, sings in German, does a little victory dance. Dale
and Flash suddenly become dizzy.
DALE
... Flash...
FLASH
What... what... do... uh...
DALE
-- getting... hard -- to -- ohhhh...
She crumples to the deck. Flash catches her, but he also
buckles. Zarkov looks around, gasps, panicked.
ZARKOV
What... what's -- oh! Oh, my!
He hits a switch. Oxygen HISSES into the cabin. They stop
gasping, give him an extremely annoyed look.
ZARKOV
Sorrryyyy. All the excitement.
Forgot. Heh, heh...
18.
EXT. SPACE
They speed past the Moon, toward the hyperspace vortex. PULL
BACK to reveal that they're being watched on a futuristic
VIEWSCREEN. Targeting scopes frame them. Power indicators rise.
An indicator flashes weapons lock.
MING (OS)
Not yet. Let them come through.
Alert the interceptors. Heh, heh,
heh.
INT. ZARKOV'S ROCKETSHIP - MAIN CABIN
Flash and Dale gaze in awe out the main port at the starry
heavens. Zarkov works the controls, glances at instrument panels.
DALE
You've proved your point, Doctor.
We've gotta turn back.
ZARKOV
Sorry, can't. We're locked in till
we reach our destination. Locked.
FLASH AND DALE
Great...
Zarkov chuckles, returns to his instruments. Flash and Dale
watch the incredible cosmic display outside.
EXT. SPACE/VORTEX
They hurtle toward a terrifying maelstrom of raw, cosmic power
that utterly dwarfs them.
INT. ZARKOV'S ROCKETSHIP - MAIN CABIN
Zarkov motions to a console, Flash gives him the skunk-eye.
Zarkov clasps his hands together, mimes pleading. Flash looks
at Dale, she shrugs. He reluctantly takes his place, Zarkov
shows him what to do. Dale peers at a spectograph.
DALE
These periodic readings are
incredible! I've never seen
combinations like this.
She looks at Zarkov, intrigued. He smiles.
19.
ZARKOV
Perhaps the old man isn't such a
total loony after all, eh? Perhaps?
FLASH
Jury's still out. By the way, how
do we land this crate? I didn't
see any skids, or wheels, or --
ZARKOV
Once there, retros will slow us
enough to glide into the atmosphere.
Glide!
DALE
Provided it has one.
ZARKOV
Touché. IF so, we deploy wing
surfaces, stabilizers, ailerons.
It'll be a bit rough...
FLASH
Now he tells us.
EXT. SPACE/VORTEX
The rocketship stretches like rubber in the WORMHOLE.
INT. ZARKOV'S ROCKETSHIP - CABIN
They're distorted by the wormhole effect.
DALE FLASH
Whaaaaaaaaaattttt -- Jeeeeeesssssuuuuuusssss!
ZARKOV
Holllddd onn! Iiittt looksss
liiike a trannnsss-warrrppp
innnterrr-dimennnnsionnnalll
worrmmmhollleee rifffttt --
FLASH
Aaaaaa whaaaaaaaattttttt???
ZARKOV
Traaapppdooorrr innn spaaceee!
YAAAAAAAAA!
20.
EXT. SPACE/VORTEX
FWOOSH! They're sucked through with a booming THUNDERCLAP!
INT. ZARKOV'S ROCKETSHIP - MAIN CABIN
They're stretched, distorted, overlapping images riffling into
and through themselves and each other. Zarkov looks
exhilirated... Flash and Dale look terrified. SOUND is eerie...
muffled... distorted. Slowly, they sink to the deck.
EXT. SPACE
Zarkov's rocketship shoots out of the vortex toward the
mysterious dark planet.
The rocketship streaks past several different-sized moons. It
GLOWS red-hot as it enters the upper atmosphere.
INT. ZARKOV'S ROCKETSHIP - MAIN CABIN
They're out cold. The planet's atmosphere SIZZLES outside the
ports. The ship shudders -- shakes -- about to rip itself
asunder. ALARMS shriek.
Flash groans, focuses. Registers horror.
Through the forward view port, Mongo's surface hurtles toward
them.
Flash draaaags himself to the console, hits switches desperately.
He glances back.
Zarkov lies still, blood trickles from his large forehead.
Mongo swells through BLAZING HEAT DISTORTION.
Flash glances at Dale, out cold. The ship shudders violently,
he pulls back on the levers.
EXT. MONGO'S SURFACE - DAY
The ship SCREAMS like a meteor above a fantastic landscape of
colorful mountains... exotic, extra-terrestrial flora...
sparkling crystal growths, strange, swirling multi-colored
cloud-shapes.
21.
INT. ZARKOV'S ROCKETSHIP - MAIN CABIN
Flash fights for control. Slowly, the shuddering ship levels out.
FLASH
That's... ungh... wings --
where's -- the bloody...
EXT. MONGO - DAY
They hurtle toward the mountains. Stubby wings slide out of the
fuselage -- WHINE -- and stick halfway.
INT. ZARKOV'S ROCKETSHIP - MAIN CABIN
Flash hangs on. The ship shudders violently --
FLASH
Dammit -- what -- oh, crap --
Muscles bulging, he gorillas the controls, grunting and straining
with effort.
EXT. MONGO - DAY
The rocketship barely clears jagged mountains... hurtles above
an incredible, futuristic city atop a mountain... speeds towards
an exotic desert valley. Huge alien beasts look up curiously as
it SCREAMS past, glowing and smoking.
INT. ZARKOV'S ROCKETSHIP - MAIN CABIN
Flash struggles to level her out.
FLASH
-- this -- is -- gonna -- HURT --
He glances apprehensively at Dale, leans into the stick with all
his strength.
FLASH
Unnnnnghhhh... come -- ON --
dammit --
EXT. MONGO - DAY
The rocketship skids across the sand -- throwing up huge gouts
everywhere. Trees, bushes ignite in its wake, alien creatures
stampede out of its way.
22.
INT. ZARKOV'S ROCKETSHIP - MAIN CABIN
Flash fires the RETROS. Consoles BLOW -- equipment EXPLODES --
BLASTS OF STEAM fill the cabin. Zarkov's thrown across the
deck, a small console falls, pins him.
EXT. MONGO - DAY
They plow toward a cliff... slow... and finally stop, inches
from going over. Sand's piled in a huge mound around the ship.
INT. ZARKOV'S ROCKETSHIP - MAIN CABIN
Flash collapses onto the console, shaking. He goes to Dale,
kneels, gently shakes her.
FLASH
Dale... Dale... C'mon, angel... Dale?
No response. Worried, he picks her up, glances at Zarkov,
pinned beneath the sparking console, motionless. Flash kicks
the partially-open hatch.
EXT. MONGO - DAY
Flash jumps down, Dale in his arms, looks around. It's an
incredible world of fantastic forms, strange colors. Several
MOONS hang in the sky, including a huge ringed one. Flash
starts down a path in the valley wall.
EXT. VALLEY - DAY
Flash carries Dale toward the foothills. Eerie CRIES fill the
air.
EXT. A ROCKY RIDGE - DAY
Flash starts across -- there's a ROAR! He looks back --
A huge two-headed dragon-like creature rises into view. It
ROARS, twin heads whipping around. Flash shrinks back as its
faceted eyes find him.
FLASH
I don't be -- hey!
He dodges a forked, serrated tongue, runs with Dale in his arms.
23.
FLASH
Beat it, you overgrown salamander!
He slides down a loose, rocky slope. The creature lumbers after
them, ROARING. Flash sprints down the slope -- a snaking tongue
rasps across his shoulder.
FLASH
Uhh --
He jumps a small ravine, sprawls in loose crystal shale. The
beast looms above, ROARING. Flash crouches over Dale
protectively, grabs a large crystal shard.
It lunges -- an ENERGY BEAM blasts it in the head! It ROARS in
pain, and is BLASTED again. It turns. TWIN ENERGY BEAMS SIZZLE
between all four eyes! With a horrifying ROAR, it CRASHES down,
shaking the earth, twin heads smoking.
Flash is stunned. Dale stirs, opens her eyes.
DALE
What... ohhhhhh...
FLASH
It's okay, Dale, easy... we made
it... sorta.
She looks around, gasps in wonder.
DALE
We -- we're on -- oh!
She sees the dead Beast, shrinks back.
DALE
What is THAT?! No, don't tell me...
FLASH
Shoulda brought a camera.
DALE
And a sensible pair of shoes.
(realizes)
Zarkov? Where's...
Flash shakes his head. Dale shuts her eyes, leans against him.
There's an ominous SOUND -- they look up.
Six GOLD-ARMORED SOLDIERS in skull-helmets, aim strange-looking
weapons at them.
DALE
Uh-oh...
24.
They get up slowly, Flash pulls Dale behind him protectively.
FLASH
Uh... hi there, fellas. What's --
DALE
Oh -- careful, Flash.
He tentatively extends a hand. Weapons snap up, power chambers
glow. Dale pulls him back.
DALE
We're definitely not in Kansas any
more.
FLASH
Look, fellas, we --
GENERAL KLYTUS, in dark cape, golden metal skull mask with amber
eyes, GROWLS in a strange language.
DALE
O-o-o-kay...
FLASH
I'm sorry, we don't --
Klytus gestures impatiently. Soldiers grab Flash and Dale
roughly.
FLASH
Hey -- get your --
He shoves them away -- and is ZAPPED with a blaster rifle.
FLASH
Aaaaarrrrgh -- !
He falls to the ground, grimaces in pain, ENERGY CRACKLING
across his body. Dale goes to help him, is repulsed by the
energy. She glares at the Soldiers.
DALE
Stop it, you bastards! He didn't
do anything to --
Klytus yanks her to her feet. Two Soldiers pick Flash up
roughly, drag the prisoners toward a nearby rise.
EXT. PLATEAU - DAY
Dale gasps at a gleaming, mecha-esque rocketship, steam rising
from its exhaust ports.
25.
Klytus GROWLS in an electronically-amplified VOICE, gestures
toward the ship. Dale moves forward, glances at Flash, half-
carried, half-dragged by two armored goons.
The hatch closes. Engines WHINE. The ship rises in a BLAST of
sand, pivots, zooms toward the horizon.
INT. SHIP'S BRIDGE
Dale tends Flash. He smiles weakly, squeezes her hand
reassuringly.
FLASH
That went well, wouldn't you say?
She returns the smile, scared, huddles against him. Armed goons
guard them.
EXT. MONGO - DAY
The ship speeds through the mountains toward a futuristic city
on the horizon.
EXT. MINGO CITY - DAY
The ship streaks toward the city... a vast, breath-taking vision
of cloud-piercing spires... suspended highways... exotic
gardens... floating vehicles.
EXT. PALACE COURTYARD - DAY
Flash and Dale are impressed. Armored Soldiers march toward
them, rifles held across their chests.
DALE
Wow! What a World's Fair this
would make!
FLASH
I've seen stuff like this in the
funny papers, but...
Klytus gestures impatiently. Flash gives him the skunk-eye.
They move toward the magnificent Palace.
INT. THRONE ROOM - DAY
Designed by Syd Mead, decorated by Ghengis Khan. Barbaric
splendour meets high-tech futurism.
26.
Flash and Dale gasp at the human, quasi-human, and totally alien
LIFEFORMS.
Lizardmen. Hawkmen. Sharkmen. Dwarves. Giants. Insectoids...
and dozens of things unclassifiable. Everyone watches them
march toward an ornate dais decorated with fantastic beasts and
carvings.
FLASH
Somebody's seen one DeMille to many.
DALE
This is incredible! What are all
those...
FLASH
My dad'd love this.
DALE
They don't exactly look like
they're bubbling over with
happiness, do they?
FLASH
I noticed. You'd think with all
this --
TRUMPETS. DRUMS. Exotic MUSIC. All creatures bow respectfully
(and fearfully) as:
Bathed in dazzling radience -- attended by his extravagant
retinue -- MING THE MERCILESS -- imperious, satanic, haughty --
floats in on an ornate, hovering throne.
Flash and Dale exchange a look. Soldiers shove them to their
knees. Flash jumps up, ready to rumble, but Dale grabs his arm.
Klytus salutes, speaks to Ming in their language. Ming eyes
Dale, gestures to a nearby floating metal globe.
It hovers above Flash and Dale, HUMS. Dale clings apprehensively
to Flash -- the globe SHINES A SHIMMERING RAY on their heads,
they flinch. Nothing seems to happen.
MING
Welcome to Mongo. We are the
Emperor Ming. Known as the
Merciless to all who incur Our
displeasure.
They're surprised to be able to understand. Flash grins, starts
forward, hand extended.
27.
FLASH
Well, that's more like it! Flash
Gordon, Your Majesty, from the
planet Earth. This is Dale Arden.
Dale curtseys self-consciously. Ming looks her over with
obvious sexual interest. Flash pulls Dale closer.
Standing beside Ming is a stunning, voluptuous, sensuous, red-
headed babe that exudes SEX through every pore. PRINCESS AURA,
Ming's daughter. Her violet eyes devour Flash. He smiles back,
charming. Annoyed, Dale pokes him.
In the crowd is a HOODED FIGURE in monkish robes. He scowls.
Several similiarly-attired FIGURES stand with him.
DALE
Your Majesty, you must do something.
Our world is endangered by your --
MING
Your pitiful planet is of no
concern to Us. You, on the other
hand... you may approach the
Imperial Presence.
FLASH
Look here, buddy --
Ming's mildly annoyed. Klytus rams a shock-staff into Flash's
back. Flash cries out, falls to the floor. Dale crouches
beside him, her eyes flash angrily at Ming.
DALE
Way to go, "Your Highness"! Is
this how you treat all your guests?!
AURA
What an obnoxious creature. Let
me --
She aims a device on her wrist gauntlet at Dale. Ming waves her
aside. He holds out a jeweled, long-nailed hand. Dale looks at
him defiantly.
Klytus pulls her to her feet, drags her to the throne. Flash
jumps up, but Soldiers grab him. Ming takes Dale's hand, looks
her over appreciatively.
MING
Such spirit! The beauty of this
female pleases Us. We shall enjoy
possessing her to the fullest!
28.
FLASH
Get your crummy paws offa her, Ming!
Aura eyes Flash. She starts to speak to Ming.
MING
Dispose of this tiresome lout.
Flash drop-kicks Klytus, ju-jitsu flips his guards. Soldiers
run toward him, ignite BLAZING energy swords.
DALE
Flash -- !
She tries to pull free, but the guards hold her. Aura glares at
her, annoyed.
Flash clobbers one Soldier, grabs his sword. The Court watches,
impressed, as he expertly fights them with a combination of
fencing and Samurai moves. Energy blades SPARK and SIZZLE.
Close to orgasm, Aura whispers to Ming. He shakes his head,
glances at Dale. She watches Flash anxiously. Ming raises a
hand. A melodic GONG sounds.
The air between Flash and his foes SHIMMERS, deflects their
blades. The Soldiers disengage, bow to Ming, withdraw. Dale
pulls free, runs to hug Flash.
MING
Well fought, slave. With a bit of
training, perhaps We will spare
your life to serve Us.
FLASH
I'm no slave, Ming. I'll meet
you -- or any of your goons as a
free man!
MING
You dare suggest that you are OUR
equal?!
FLASH
You got it.
MING
Bah! To the Monkey Men with this
oaf!
Soldiers grab Flash, take his sword.
DALE
Flash! OH -- let him go -- stop --
29.
They drag her away, march Flash to the center of the huge room.
Ming activates a jewel on one arm of his Throne.
Part of the floor descends into an arena pit. At the far end
are three barred openings decorated with monstrous carvings.
KLYTUS
There is your freedom, slave.
Enjoy it... while you may. Heh,
heh, heh.
They rise from the arena. Flash looks around apprehensively.
Aura sneers at Dale, who watches anxiously.
The Hooded Figure moves in closer to watch.
Flash wipes sweaty palms on his jodphurs. Metal bars slowly
rise from the three openings... bestial, SNUFFLING SOUNDS come
out of the darkness... mis-shappen shadows appear on the stone
walls. Flash crouches, wary.
Three RED MONKEY MEN -- feral, hideous -- leap into the arena --
inhuman faces twisted in savage snarls. Long yellow fangs gleam.
They HOWL, SHRIEK, circle Flash.
Dale screams. Aura shoots her an annoyed look, returns her
attention to Flash.
Flash circles warily as the growling, snarling beast-men move in.
FLASH
Three against one... what a
surprise...
They ROAR, attack! Flash feints high -- scatters them with a
flying body block. He rolls free of the tangled bodies, jumps
to his feet.
Dale struggles to break free. Ming eyes her lecherously.
Flash flings Monkey Man 1 into #2. #3 claws his chest savagely.
FLASH
Uh -- !
He staggers back, they rush him, HOWLING for blood. He punches
two of them away, kicks the third one in the face.
Ming arches an eyebrow. Savage FIGHT SOUNDS continue. He
motions, Klytus leans in, Ming whispers. Dale sobs, looks away
from the horrible battle.
30.
Flash, shirt shredded, swings Monkey Man 1 by its ankles,
clubbing the other two away. He lifts it over his head, hurls
it into them.
Flash cracks two hairy skulls together. Elbows one in its
throat -- knees another in its face. Both go down for the count.
Dale sighs with relief. Aura's aroused. Horrible FIGHT SOUNDS
continue.
Flash grapples the last one, his chest and arms clawed. It
chokes him, he claps both hands hard over its ears. It HOWLS --
Flash picks it up -- pile-drives it head first into the floor.
It goes limp.
Enthusiastic APPLAUSE dies as Ming scowls darkly. Dale starts
forward, Soldiers grab her. Aura descends into the arena.
MING
Impressive. You would do well to
represent Us in the Tournament of
Mongo. Perhaps eventually win your
freedom. What say you, Outworlder?
FLASH
Afraid to face me yourself?
MING
Impudent buffoon! You have sealed
your fate!
He activates a crystal on his Throne's arm --
AURA
NO!
She runs to Flash's side. The floor irises open -- they plunge
through -- Aura SCREAMS!
INT. PIT
Flash and Aura plunge toward something huge, slimy, and horrible.
It BELLOWS hungrily -- a forest of TENTACLES lashes -- dozens of
EYESTALKS twist -- jagged JAWS gnash greedily!
Aura presses a jewel on her gauntlet -- a TRANSPARENT ENERGY
BUBBLE encloses them -- they stop falling, hovering in mid-air.
The Pit Creature WAILS, thrashes in frustration. Pulpy tentacles
SNAP and writhe at them impotently.
Flash looks down, stunned, a protective arm around Aura's
luscious body as he gapes at the enclosing bubble.
31.
INT. THRONE ROOM - DAY
Dale starts forward.
DALE
Flash -- ! Oh, let me go! Flash --
The Guards restrain her. Ming glowers at Klytus.
MING
Aaarrgh! Damned nuisance!
DALE
Oh, God -- do something! Hurry!
MING
Princess Aura has gone too far this
time!
(sighs peevishly)
See if there is anything left to
save.
KLYTUS
At once, Magnificence!
He salutes, exits with his shock troops. Dale struggles against
her captors. Ming sips from a jeweled golden goblet, eyes her
appreciatively.
INT. PIT
Flash and Aura look down through the energy bubble.
The Lovecraftian Horror HOWLS, slobbers, its pseudo-pods SNAP
and WHIP at them. Chitinous bits of the raging creature detach,
scuttle and slip on the slimy walls.
Flash recoils.
FLASH
What the hell is THAT?!
Aura presses several jewels on her high-tech gauntlet. The
bubble drifts toward a wall.
FLASH
Holy Mother of Stalin...!
AURA
Don't be afraid, outworlder.
The bubble reaches the stone wall.
32.
FLASH
Hey, I wasn't -- yow!
He gapes in astonishment as it SHIMMERS THROUGH THE WALL.
INT. TUNNEL - OTHER SIDE OF THE WALL
Flash reels, stunned as the bubble POPS. Aura grabs his arm
urgently.
AURA
Hurry! If you are recaptured, it
will mean your death! Ming --
FLASH
Wait, I can't leave Dale --
AURA FLASH
There is nothing you -- I've gotta try and --
AURA
Don't be a fool! What good will it
do her if you are executed? Oh,
come, please! Ming will not harm
her.
Flash touches the solid stone wall behind them, doubtful.
FLASH
You'll help her?
AURA
Yes, yes... hurry!
She leads him deeper into the tunnel. He looks back, loathe to
abandon Dale.
INT. PIT
Klytus, six Shock troops descend on antigravity hover-skiffs.
He looks down at the WAILING Horror, scans the area with a hand-
held unit.
KLYTUS
Mmm. I thought as much. Search
the catacombs. Bring them back.
An INSECTOID MINI-HORROR crawls, CHITTERING, onto his arm.
Klytus crushes it in a gauntleted hand.
33.
KLYTUS
And get a verminator unit down
here...
INT. TUNNEL
It's a colorful underground chamber full of hanging stalactites
and jagged stalagmites. Flash glances back as Aura hurries him
along. She suddenly pulls him behind a carved column, a hand on
his lips. Armored Shock Troops float past their hiding place on
hover-skiffs.
She slips her arms around Flash, snuggles close, looks into his
eyes. He looks away with some difficulty, peers around the
corner. She presses against him.
FLASH
Uh... Now what?
She tenderly touches his chest wounds, he winces.
AURA
Ahead in a secret cavern is my
private rocket car. You'll be safe
there. This way.
FLASH
Wait, maybe we oughta --
She puts a hand gently on his lips.
AURA
You must trust me, outworlder. I
am the only one who can help you.
Flash nods, she leads him OFF.
INT. ROCKET SLED MONORAIL - LATER
Aura climbs into the futuristic car. Flash glances back as he
gets in. The canopy slides shut, it zooms into the tunnel.
INT. THRONE ROOM - DAY
Ming sips from an ornate, jeweled golden goblet, attended by
luscious, scantily-clad alien wenches.
DALE
Oh, what's happened to Flash? You
fiend! If you've hurt him --
34.
Ming arches a satanic eyebrow at her, smirks.
MING
Perishing in the Karkosian Pits
would be merciful... compared to
what We have planned for him.
DALE
But why? He hasn't --
MING
He has defied Us! No one may --
DALE
He was only trying to save our --
MING
Pfah! Enough. Come here, girl, We
would gaze more fully upon thee.
DALE
Oh, please, your majesty! I beg
you, save --
Ming gestures impatiently. Guards bring Dale closer. She
struggles. Ming strokes her hair, caresses her cheek, eyes her
body.
MING
Heh, heh, heh, heh. Torak...
A large-headed scientist wearing MIND-CONTROL GOGGLES comes
forward, examines Dale with a strange device. He shows the
results to Ming, who nods, pleased.
MING
Hmmm. Yesss.... Excellent genetic
potential, for such a primitive
world. We shall mate with thee,
Earthwoman, and send forth Our
progeny to rule the Universe... in
Our Name, of course.
DALE
Not in this lifetime, buster! Tell
them to get their lousy --
She kicks the Guards in their armored shins, to no avail. Ming
shines a pulsating, blood red beam from a ring on her.
DALE
Oh! Uh! Ohhhhhh...
35.
She stops struggling, trembles. Bathed in the glow, confused,
she moves slowly, sensuously, MOANING softly as Ming watches,
pleased.
DALE
What... n-no... don't -- ohhhh!
Ming moves his other hand suggestively. The SHIMMERING BEAM
becomes SEVERAL CRIMSON HANDS, caressing Dale's body lasciviously.
She shivers, her eyes roll back in pleasure.
DALE
Oh! Ohhhhh... godddddd...
Ming waves the Guards back. Dale moves in the grip of the
beam's MANY HANDS, aroused.
MING
Come, my dear... Let Us see truly
what you are capable of, eh? Heh,
heh, hehhh.
The hands unbutton her blouse. She gives Ming a hot, sultry
look, undulates wantonly. Her hips, breasts, legs, lips are
stroked.
Ming smiles wolfishly, extends a hand. Dale's drawn to him
helplessly. The HANDS move over her body.
MING
Ahhh, most promising. Heh, heh,
hehhhhh...
Dale drapes herself on Ming's lap. He fondles her as she kisses
him sensuously.
MING
Excellent! Excellent...
The ray intensifies... Ming's hands join the ENERGY ONES. Dale
MOANS softly, leans back, trembling, breathing heavily, aroused
to the max.
MING
Such response! Not even the
Princess Aura --
ZOGI, the ancient High Priest limps forward, looks disapprovingly
at Dale.
ZOGI
Your Majesty...
36.
Ming shoots him an annoyed look, returns his attention to Dale.
She helplessly slips her blouse off. Her eyes show that she's
fighting this.
ZOGI
Your Majesty, may, of course, do as
he will with this... creature.
But, should we not consult the
Oracle of Dy-Zan regarding --
MING
Later, Zogi. We are busy.
ZOGI
But if the Gods do not --
MING
Silence! Not even the High Priest
of Dy-Zan may presume upon the
Imperial will!
Zogi bows, withdraws. Ming caresses Dale's quivering body, his
eyes gleaming with lust.
MING
None may deny Us Our Imperial
pleasure!
He throws his head back, gives vent to a diabolical laugh. Dale
shudders, leans back as he caresses her body.
Unnoticed, Barin and his hooded accomplices slip out of the
throne room.
EXT. MING'S PALACE - DAY
Ming's lecherous LAUGHTER echoes across the courtyard.
INT. THRONE ROOM - DAY
Dale and Ming embrace, bathed in the Passion Ray. Ming turns
the ray off. Dale's eyes clear. Horrified, she jumps off his
lap, swoons against her Guards, confused.
DALE
What -- oh, god... what did you...
Dale looks frightened as Ming leers at her.
MING
Remove the Earth woman. Prepare
her... for Our pleasure!
37.
Dazed, Dale's carried out by Imperial Guards.
INT. SECRET CAVERN HANGAR
The rocket-sled slows to a stop. The canopy slides back, Aura
and Flash climb out, into a large cavern containing several
small, sleek rocket cars. Aura opens a hatch on one.
AURA
Wait for me here. When 'tis safe,
I will return for thee.
Flash looks into her dazzling eyes. She holds his hands against
her mouth, kisses them softly.
FLASH
I still don't like running away --
say, listen, I... I guess I haven't
said thanks. What's your name?
AURA
I am Princess Aura, daughter of
Ming the Merciless.
FLASH
That son-of-a-bitch is your father?!
AURA
(confused)
Son of what?
FLASH
Never mind. You've got my sympathy,
kid. You'll get word to Dale?
She slips her arms around him, looks into his eyes.
AURA
Trust me, Flash Gordon.
She pulls his head down, kisses him sensuously. He breaks the
kiss reluctantly, shakes his head, obviously affected by it.
She wraps herself around him, sighs. It takes Flash a moment to
pull himself together.
FLASH
Uh... wow... you... be careful, huh?
He climbs into the ship, her hand trails along his body. The
hatch closes, she smiles.
38.
AURA
Yes... I will take care of your
Earth wench!
INT. PALACE CORRIDOR - DAY
Armed LIZARDMEN escort Dale to a chamber. Outside, two chained,
INSECTOID WATCHDOGS GROWL and snap at them. One of the Lizardmen
strikes them with his energy spear. They recede, GROWLING and
BUZZING. Eyes wide, Dale edges past, into the room.
INT. HAREM CHAMBER - DAY
Dale glares defiantly at the Lizardmen.
DALE
You won't get away with this! I'm
an American citizen!
They HISS, flick their tongues, roll their eyes.
DALE
Oh, God... stupid bug-eating nitwits.
She looks around the opulent chamber. Runs to a window. She
opens the lattice, starts out onto the terrace -- ZAP!
DALE
Ohh -- !
She jumps back. The Guards HISS with amusement. Dale tosses a
nearby pillow -- it rebounds off a SHIMMERING FORCE-FIELD.
DALE
Great... can this get any worse?
On cue, the door slides open, Zogi limps in. Dale eyes him
warily as he approaches her.
ZOGI
Come, child, I haven't all day.
Let us have a look at --
She slaps his hands away, shoves him back. The Guards HISS,
amused.
DALE
Don't touch me, you lecherous old
goat!
39.
ZOGI
By Issus! The Emperor will have
his hands full taming thee.
DALE
In a friggin' pig's eye, buster!
Zogi looks at her, confused.
ZOGI
I beg your pardon?
DALE
Tell that arrogant bastard I'm not
interested.
ZOGI
Hmn. I fear it will make no
difference.
DALE
We'll see.
He studies her a moment.
ZOGI
Tell me, are all Earth women like
thee?
DALE
Wouldn't you like to know.
ZOGI
It must be a formidable planet,
indeed.
DALE
What the Hell is that supposed to
mean?
ZOGI
Some refreshment? A pleasure
potion, perhaps? It will make
things... easier.
He pours sparkling amber liquid from an ornate decanter into a
jeweled goblet, offers it. Dale folds her arms, glares at him.
Zogi shrugs.
ZOGI
As you wish, Highness. Do you
require anything else?
40.
DALE
Thanks, I won't be here long.
ZOGI
I fear you do not fully comprehend
your situation --
DALE
That I've been taken prisoner
against my will?
ZOGI
Tut. You are to become
Empress/Consort in the greatest
Empire that has ever existed, the --
DALE
Whoopee. I'll pass, thank you.
Surprised, he chuckles, signals three HANDMAIDS forward. Each
holds exquisite, provocative Mongo gowns. Dale glances at them.
DALE
Right. I'm gonna let that
lecherous -- see me in something
that skimpy? I don't think so.
ZOGI
If you would prefer to be unclothed,
that will be acceptable as --
Dale snatches one, stalks off, accompanied by the handmaids.
Zogi watches her exit into the adjoining chamber, impressed by
her show of spirit. He jerks his head toward the door, the
lizardmen slither out.
INT. THRONE ROOM - DAY
Klytus, six Shocktroops lead Aura in, her head high, haughty,
defiant. Ming glowers. She meets his stare.
MING
Impudent whelp! You slink back
here after defying Our will, do you?
Better to have perished in the pits.
Perhaps a neural flogging --
AURA MING
You were going to kill -- Silence! We have been far too
indulgent with Thee. Where is
the Earthman?
41.
AURA
Dead.
Ming narrows his eyes, she shrugs.
MING
A lie, no doubt. You are as
headstrong as your mother, and will
no doubt come to the same unpleasant
end. No matter. It simply means
there will be none with whom to
share your punishment.
Aura looks up, surprised, dismayed.
MING
Not even the Imperial Offspring may
trifle with the will of Ming.
General Klytus!
Klytus steps forward, salutes.
MING
The Princess seems dissatisfied
with her lot here.
Aura looks at him warily.
MING
Perhaps a change of venue is in
order. Ah, I have it -- a year's
sojurn in the Kingdom of the
Warrior Women? Heh, heh, heh, heh,
hehhhh.
AURA
No -- you can't --
MING
Conditions are somewhat harsh...
but they will appreciate your...
resilience.
Klytus bows, grabs Aura, leads her away. She struggles, unable
to believe it.
AURA
Father -- !
Ming ignores her as they exit. Zogi limps up, bows.
ZOGI
Is that not rather harsh, Sire?
She is strong-willed, but --
42.
MING
She will be more tractable when
they have done with her. What of
the Earth woman?
ZOGI
She seems... reluctant, Sire.
MING
That is unimportant. The Ceremony
will commence at the Seventh Hour
of Dy-Zan. All creatures are hereby
ordered to make merry, under pain
of death.
ZOGI
As you wish, Sire. Shall I use the
dehumanizer? Permanent will
deletion? Program her for mindless
submisiveness?
Ming considers this.
MING
Perhaps later... should she grow
tiresome. For now... I should
think, maximum arousal. Full
variety of techniques, no
inhibitions, et cetera, et cetera,
et cetera...
Zogi bows, limps away. Ming samples various fruits, drinks,
etc., served by his barely-dressed PALACE WENCHES.
MING
Heh, heh, heh!
INT. CAVERN HANGER - DAY
Aura's rocket car's parked by the entrance. A manta-like
Creature sails past outside, CRIES shrilly.
INT. ROCKET CAR CABIN
Flash, in a Mongo uniform, checks his reflection.
FLASH
Couldn't wear it to the office, but
otherwise not too shabby.
He settles into the pilot's seat, looks troubled.
43.
FLASH
Thanks, Zarkov. Thanks a whole
lot...
He shakes it off, turns to the control panel.
FLASH
Get it together, kid. So...
what've we got here...
He explores the controls.
FLASH
Seems easy enough. Uh, throttle...
lifters... cruise --
INT. CAVERN HANGAR
The rocket car smacks into the rocky ceiling.
INT. ROCKET CAR CABIN
Jolted by the impact, Flash eases it back down, lands with a
THUNK!
FLASH
Uh -- oops. Okay... that's lift.
He carefully tries more controls. Suddenly, he's startled by a
disembodied VOICE:
NARXIS SEVEN
Do you require assistance?
FLASH
Whuh -- who said that?
He looks around.
NARXIS SEVEN
Your identi-profile does not match
that of Princess Aura, and your
operational skills are obviously
undeveloped. If you wish --
Flash jumps to his feet, wary.
FLASH
Okay, pal, where are you? Come out
where I can see you.
44.
NARXIS SEVEN
Very well.
Flash jumps as A HOLO-DISPLAY appears above the dash -- the HEAD
of a blue-skinned CYBORG, neither male nor female, with large
eyes.
FLASH
Holy... who -- who the hell are you?
NARXIS SEVEN
I am Narxis Seven, cybernetic
interface system for this vehicle.
How may I assist you?
FLASH
Cybernetic... You mean you're... a
robot?
NARXIS SEVEN
Hardly.
FLASH
Sorry, didn't mean to insult you,
pal. Uh, did I understand you know
how to operate this bucket?
NARXIS SEVEN
That is correct. Do you wish to
utilize me for Imperial business,
or pleasure?
Flash sits back down in the pilot's chair.
FLASH
Uh, why don't we see where we are,
first, okay?
Narxis Seven is replaced by a VIEW of the landscape outside.
FLASH
Whoa. That's interest --
He puts a hand through it, reacts, startled.
FLASH
How can you do that?
NARXIS SEVEN
Beg pardon?
45.
FLASH
Uh, never mind. Just don't blow up
on me, okay? Could we take a look
around, do you think?
The HOLOGRAPHIC VIEW shows fearsome BAT-THINGS soaring above a
steaming rainforest. This MORPHS into a VIEW of several Moons,
some no larger than asteroids. Huge space tankers move between
them.
FLASH
Wow... now I know what to get Dad
for Christmas...
A VIEW of a frozen arctic wilderness. Huge, white-furred
PONGAR, a mottled horn on their snouts, stalk across the snow.
FLASH
Whoa. Skiing with a handicap.
Then a VIEW of Ming's Place.
FLASH
Wait -- stop! Here -- stop here!
That's what I'm looking for.
NARXIS SEVEN
The Imperial Palace, home of
Emperor Ming the Merciless...
undisputed ruler of the universe.
FLASH
I've got a couple disputes with 'im.
I need to go there... preferably
through the back door, okay?
NARXIS SEVEN
Understood. Would you like to
utilize one of the Princess Aura's
secret entrances?
A flashing link appears between their position and the Palace.
Flash smiles. Suddenly, a bright EXPLOSION lights the sky above
the city. Flash sits up, startled.
FLASH
What the -- what's going on?!
NARXIS SEVEN
The Imperial Palace is under attack
by the ships of Argentia.
Hologram gyroships strafe the Palace with ENERGY TORPEDOS.
EXPLOSIONS flare against the lightning shields.
46.
FLASH
Hey! Cut it out, dammit! Dale's
in there! Hey! Hey!
INT. MINISTRY OF ARMS - DEFENSE CONTROL ROOM - DAY
Klytus faces a HOLOGRAM of MING'S HEAD. Pale-skinned, worm-like
TECHS in bulky mind-control goggles man the consoles. Huge
HOLOSCREENS show a dozen attacking gyroships.
MING
What is the meaning of this!?
KLYTUS
It's the Lion Men again, Sire.
MING
Bah! We have suffered enough of
their insolence. Destroy them!
Klytus turns to comply.
MING
Wait! Capture Prince Thun alive
for extensive torture and public
execution. A lesson must be made!
Klytus salutes, Ming's HOLOGRAM dissolves. ALARMS sound.
INT. ROCKET CAR CABIN
Flash nervously watches the hologram.
FLASH
... this just gets better and
better. Hey, let's go, huh? Get
us out there, now!
EXT. CAVERN HANGER
The rocket car's ion engines ROAR to life.
INT. ROCKET CAR CABIN
Flash works the alien controls. Outside the ports, the cavern
walls move past.
NARXIS SEVEN
Perhaps if you allow me...
47.
FLASH
Fine, whatever -- just do it!
EXT. CAVERN HANGAR - DAY
The rocket car BLASTS out and shoots into the sky.
EXT. MINGO CITY - DAY
Gyroships painted to resemble fierce predators swoop, dive,
firing weapons. EXPLOSIONS flash against the city's lightning
shields. The City's ion cannons fire plasma BURSTS. A gyroship
EXPLODES.
INT. ROCKET CAR CABIN
Flash scans the strange control board.
FLASH
Weapons... weapons -- could we get
some armament here?
NARXIS SEVEN
This vessel is not equipped for
heavy combat. Our only armament
is --
Flash sees a rocky rise loom in front of them.
FLASH
Whoa -- ! Look out -- !!!
EXT. MOUNTAIN RANGE - DAY
The rocket car barely clears a jagged peak, hurtles toward the
city's force-field.
INT. ROCKET CAR CABIN
Mingo City hurtles toward them. Flash looks grim.
FLASH
You're sure you know how to fly
this thing?
NARXIS SEVEN
You were distracting me. I can't --
An IMPACT jolts the rocketcar violently!
48.
FLASH
Uh! Watch out for those beams!
EXT. MINGO CITY - DAY
Six war rockets blast through shield openings, weapons blazing.
The sky's full of swooping ships, deadly energy blasts! Two
gyroships EXPLODE!
INT. ROCKET CAR CABIN
FLASH
What are you doing?!
He holds on, rocked violently by a near miss. The cabin's lit
by OS EXPLOSIONS.
EXT. MINGO CITY STREET - DAY
Excited crowds watch the battle rage beyond the shields. Flash's
rocket car streaks up -- flips, rolls erratically -- as energy
blasts EXPLODE around it.
INT. WAR ROCKET AJAX BRIDGE
Klytus studies a holo-display.
KLYTUS
Close ranks. Lock all weapons.
EXT. MINGO CITY - DAY
The rocket car takes a glancing hit, spins off, RAMS into a
gyroship.
INT. ROCKET CAR CABIN
Flash's jolted by the impact. Consoles, panels short, spark.
ALARMS go off. Narxis sputters out of existence.
FLASH
Damn! Narxis... Narxis -- are you
still -- Uh-oh...
He wrestles the controls.
FLASH
Not good -- this is not good --
49.
INT. WAR ROCKET AJAX BRIDGE
Klytus watches the hologram.
KLYTUS
Who is that?
PILOT
Can't read his transponder code
sir, but it looks like he's taken
out the leader. Shall we --
Both holo-ships plunge from the sky.
KLYTUS
Hmn. See that he gets a posthumous
commendation. Parade, or something.
EXT. SKY - DAY
Rocket car and gyroship hurtle toward the ground, as the battle
rages above.
INT. ROCKET CAR CABIN
Flash battles the controls as he spirals down. Smoke fills the
cockpit, panels short.
FLASH
Great! Where's the brakes on
this --
INT. WAR ROCKET AJAX BRIDGE
Klytus peers into a targeting scope. IMPACTS buffet the ship.
KLYTUS
All weapons locked... FIRE!
EXT. MINGO CITY - DAY
Two gyroships are BLASTED to scrap-metal! The survivors swoop
around, haul ass out of there.
The rocketcar and gyroship slam into the trees.
Gyroships flee, pursued by Ming's war rockets.
50.
INT. WAR ROCKET AJAX BRIDGE
Klytus reports to a HOLOGRAM of Ming's head.
KLYTUS
Thun's ship has fallen, Sire.
Shall we retrieve the body?
MING
Pity. No. After Our wedding,
dispatch a squadron to blast his
kingdom into rubble. That will
have to do.
His IMAGE fades as Klytus salutes.
EXT. MINGO CITY - DAY
War rockets swoop through openings in the lightning shield.
INT. HAREM CHAMBER - DAY
Dale's dressed like a Frazetta heroine, tended by giggling
SLAVES. She tries to stop them from preparing her. Zogi limps
in with two LIZARDMEN, the slaves scurry out.
DALE
Thank God. They were driving me --
What do you want?
ZOGI
Time draws nigh for the great --
Dale gets up, moves away.
DALE
Save it, huh? When do I get out of
here?
ZOGI
You have the freedom of the palace,
Your High --
DALE
I'm not your damn Highness, buddy,
you got it?! Where's Flash? Have
they found --
ZOGI
Oh, dear, then you haven't heard?
51.
DALE
Heard... what?
ZOGI
Your companion was killed attempting
to escape.
Dale sobs, drops onto a floating bed. Zogi watches curiously.
ZOGI
Come, come, child, why take on so?
In a few hours --
Dale hurls a pillow at him.
DALE
Get lost, willya?! Leave me alone...
She sobs into a pillow. Zogi shakes his head, nods to the
Lizardmen. They pick Dale up, she struggles.
DALE
What -- cut it out, dammit! Let me
go!!! LET -- ME --
ZOGI
Come, come, my girl. I have just
the thing to help you forget.
As they carry her out, Dale struggles violently.
DALE
I -- don't -- WANT to forget! Get
your crummy hands -- claws --
whatever --
They carry her out, the door slides shut.
EXT. VALLEY OF THE DAMNED - DAY
Rocket car and gyroship lie wrecked on the cracked, steaming
ground in the middle of a sprawling hellscape. Strange, keening
WAILS fill the air.
Flash tumbles out the hatch, bleeding from a gash on his forehead.
He hits the ground, rolls clear, gasping.
FLASH
Uh -- so much for autopilot...
A huge SHADOW falls across him -- he looks up at:
52.
THUN -- a powerful, snarling Lion Man -- his long mane decorated
with several slender braids, towers over him, holding a serrated
sword. He ROARS savagely.
FLASH
SHIT!
He rolls aside -- the blade slices into the ground! Thun
wrenches it out -- Flash kips up into his face, staggering him
back.
FLASH
Hold on, pal, we --
Thun ROARS. Flash dodges a savage swipe, tackles him. They
wrestle for the sword. Thun RAMS a powerful knee into Flash's
midsection.
FLASH
Uhn -- !
Thun picks him up, hurls him through the air with a savage ROAR.
Flash rebounds off a boulder.
FLASH
Uh --
Dazed, he barely avoids Thun's sword. They wrestle back and
forth. Long, sharp fangs snap inches from Flash's head.
A BLASTER RIFLE'S SIGHTS
frame them as they storm around on the ground.
BACK TO SCENE
Thun swats Flash across the clearing, leaps -- Flash catches him
on his feet -- stomach-throws him head first into the side of
his ship!
THUN
Ungh!
He slumps to the ground, dazed.
THE RIFLE SIGHTS
lock on Flash. In the VIEWFINDER alien numbers scroll.
BACK TO SCENE
Flash faces Thun, panting, Thun's sword in hand. Thun glares,
exposes his throat.
53.
THUN
What're you waiting for?
Flash slowly rises, backs up, tosses the sword away. Thun gets
to his feet, wary, but surprised.
THUN
I will not be taken as Ming's
prisoner.
FLASH
Good for you, buddy. I feel the
same way.
(cautiously extends
a hand)
Name's Flash Gordon, from Earth.
Tell ya what, you don't try to kill
me, I won't try to kill you, okay?
Thun looks warily at Flash. He clasps Thun's paw, shows him how
to shake hands. Thun looks puzzled, returns the handshake. He
peers closely at Flash.
THUN
I do not know this Earth kingdom.
You act honorably, but you wear the
Imperial rags.
FLASH
Yeah, well, times bein' what they
are, I couldn't be too choosy. I
saw you attack the Palace --
THUN
Yes! The Emperor is our enemy. We
will destroy him like the dog he is.
FLASH
I hear ya, but a friend of mine's
prisoner in there, and I can't let
ya blow her to pieces.
THUN
You are Ming's enemy?
FLASH
Yeah, it looks that way.
Thun claps a heavy paw on Flash's shoulder. Flash winces.
THUN
Then, Flash Gordon of Earth, I join
my blade with yours. I am Thun,
Prince of Argentia.
54.
FLASH
I appreciate that, Thun. Uh, you
wouldn't happen to know how to get
back in there, would ya?
THUN
Madness. Our best course is escape
to my kingdom.
FLASH
Go ahead. I've got some rescuing
to do.
THUN
Madness...
The figure on the ridge watches them move off.
EXT. FOOTHILLS - DAY
Flash and Thun cross a ravaged alien landscape. Strange CRIES,
eerie HOWLS fill the air. Flash shudders.
THUN
A remarkable tale, Flash. But I've
lived long enough to know that
anything's possible.
FLASH
Then why doesn't everyone band
together and oust Ming?
THUN
He keeps us at each other's throats.
His provocateurs are everywhere.
FLASH
Typical tin-pot dictator. Well,
maybe we can --
A nerve-shattering HOWL stops them in their tracks!
FLASH
Uh-oh...
Six scaly SCORPIODS perch on a low bluff overlooking the trail.
Faceted eyes blaze... powerful segmented bodies brace to spring...
rows of needle-sharp teeth bare... dark venom drips from their
distended jaws.
THUN
Scorpiods! Run -- I will hold them.
55.
Flash crouches beside him.
FLASH
Thanks, but friends don't run out
on each other.
Thun smiles, gives Flash his dagger and pistol.
FLASH
That only leaves you with a sword.
THUN
Got to give 'em some kind of
chance...
The Scorpiods HOWL, leap --
Thun BELLOWS -- cuts one out of mid-air in a spray of black
fluid. Flash BLASTS one -- another lands hard on his chest --
his blaster goes flying.
FLASH
Uhn -- !
Claws and mandibles slash and tear at him. It ROARS and HISSES
horribly as they fight.
Thun cuts one of the hideous monsters in half, stomps on
another's spiny head, rends it with slashing claws.
One leaps on him from behind, and sinks its fangs into his leg.
Thun ROARS in pain. He lifts it by its armored tail, SMASHES it
against a rock wall in an explosion of innards.
Flash forces the beast's slavering jaws back, rams the knife
between its throat plates. With a horrible RATTLE it falls
back, dead. Flash and Thun get shakily to their feet. Flash's
shirt is shredded.
FLASH
Jeez -- anybody ever die of old age
around here?
(off Thun's wound)
Ooooh, that's gotta hurt.
THUN
Uhn... not bad... for a furless
midget.
FLASH
C'mon, let's take care of that
before it gets infected.
He helps Thun toward a rocky outcrop.
56.
Above, behind a cluster of dark purple crystals, a HOODED FIGURE
in monk's robes watches, blaster rifle in hand.
EXT. MINGO CITY - DAY
Patrol ships zoom through the skies.
EXT. LANDING PLATFORM - DAY
Klytus escorts Aura to a shuttle on the skypad as several ships
zoom past overhead. A Soldier salutes.
KLYTUS
She's to be taken to Queen Amazora's
kingdom.
The young Soldier looks sympathetic. Aura returns his look
haughtily.
KLYTUS
A word of advice: do try to behave
yourself, Princess. I may be able
to --
AURA
Spare me your obsequious prattle,
bootlicker.
KLYTUS
If you entertain any hope of the
Emperor having a change of heart --
AURA
He'd have to acquire one first.
Klytus shrugs, turns to the Soldiers.
KLYTUS
Call for shield deactivation when
you are ready to depart. Have a
good trip, Princess. See you in a
year.
They salute, he exits. The Pilot reaches for Aura's arm, she
pulls away. Head held high, she moves up the ramp.
INT. SHUTTLE - DAY
Aura hugs herself, shivers slightly.
57.
AURA
Must the environmental control
fields be set so low?
PILOT
Sorry, Princess.
He turns to the control panel. Aura slips a small, lethal-
looking device out of her gown, jams it against the base of his
neck.
PILOT
Aaaaaagh!
Blue-white energy CRACKLES around his head. Spasming, he falls
to the deck. Aura takes his sidearm, enters the cabin.
INT. CONTROL PLATFORM - DAY
Klytus waits with the Techs and his shock troops. From the
intercom:
MALE VOICE
Shuttle theta seven one ready for
departure. Request shield
deactivation, and initial flight
path confirmation. Over.
Klytus pauses a moment, nods. A tech works the power grid.
EXT. MINGO CITY - DAY
The shuttle rockets through a square opening in the shield.
INT. SHUTTLE COCKPIT - DAY
Aura's at the controls. A small device with flashing lights is
around her throat.
AURA
(male voice)
... Shuttle is clear, and on course.
You may reactivate.
She smiles, takes the device off, tosses it away. She opens the
throttle.
EXT. MINGO CITY - DAY
The shuttle zooms toward a nearby valley.
58.
EXT. CAVERN - DAY
Flash and Thun pause at the base of a towering blue cliff, its
summit veiled in clouds. A cavern opening yawns before them.
Flash peers in.
THUN
These passages lead to catacombs
beneath the City, but they are not
empty.
FLASH
Can we get into the palace?
THUN
Mmmm. If we get unlucky. Come.
They slip in.
INT. CAVERN
Flash and Thun creep around a corner, duck back quickly.
Hideous, slithering BEASTS prowl the tunnel. Heaps of human
bones lie strewn everywhere.
Flash raises an eyebrow, Thun shrugs, they dash out from cover.
Thun slashes with his sword, ROARS -- Flash BLASTS with his
pistol, stabs with the knife.
The tunnel's filled with thrashing bodies, DEAFENING ROARS.
INT. CONDITIONING CHAMBER - DAY
Dale, her hair loose, squirms, locked into an exotic device,
surrounded by sinister, lurid-looking implements. Zogi limps
over, troubled.
DALE
Don't you people have anything
better to do with your lives?
ZOGI
We do what we must, Dale Arden.
He adjusts the evil-looking devices near her.
ZOGI
Though I admit... the portents of
this union trouble me greatly.
59.
DALE
That makes two of us! What say we
call the whole thing off?
Surprised, Zogi chuckles, pats her shoulder.
ZOGI
The Emperor considers himself above
even the dictates of the Gods. One
day...
Dale struggles in vain, shoots Zogi a pleading look.
ZOGI
This won't hurt. In fact, I am
told you will find it rather...
stimulating!
He pats her arm reassuringly, limps to the main control station.
Dale struggles, looks around desperately. Zogi activates the
machine.
DALE
C'mon, Zogi, can't we talk this
over? I won't tell if you won't.
Scout's honor.
Huge coils pulse and glow around the room. Energy CRACKLES up
and down futuristic relays. A large glass and metal NEEDLE
lowers slowly toward Dale's forehead. She stares up at it in
alarm.
DALE
Shoot... this is your last chance --
don't make me come over there...
Zogi pushes a button. Dale's body arches as the needle fires
pulsing globes of light at her forehead. She trembles
helplessly, cries out. Zogi watches sadly, adjusts the frequency
higher.
ZOGI
That's it, my dear... relax, and
enjoy yourself. It won't take long.
He adjusts several dials, a LOUD WHINE fills the room. Erotic
HOLOGRAMS assault Dale -- images of her and Ming coupling
passionately. She moans, turns away.
DALE
Ohhhh -- uh -- oh! No -- let me --
ohhhhhhh!
60.
Zogi dials the intensity up -- Dale's body arches -- then she
slumps helplessly. Her eyes glaze, her bosom heaves. She moves
weakly, moaning. Zogi looks away, disturbed.
INT. TUNNEL OF TERROR
ROARS echo through the catacombs. Flash and Thun appear around
a corner, panting, disheveled, bloody. A GROWLING, multi-legged
THING scuttles after them. Flash BLASTS it to bits.
They pause to catch their breath.
THUN
... told you... it would not be
easy...
FLASH
Just for the record... I didn't
doubt it for a moment...
Nearby, an ornate stone stairway winds up into mist.
FLASH
Any more surprises?
THUN
Don't know. No one ever made it
out of here alive to tell.
FLASH
Look, it's not too late for you to
go back.
THUN
Hunh. Where's the sport in that?
FLASH
(grins)
Come on.
They climb stone stairs along one side of a seemingly endless
chasm. Huge webs span it at irregular intervals.
INT. HALL OF BINDING - NIGHT
A splendid, barbaric ceremony's in full swing: ancient Babylon
meets Star Wars. A huge, otherworldly sphinx crouches over the
Altar, flanked by smaller icons of equally fantastic creatures.
Colored incense smoke rises toward the stars, which are visible
through a faceted skydome. Almost-naked DANCING GIRLS sway and
writhe sinuously as Ming's entourage approaches.
61.
Dale and Zogi wait before the Altar, as Ming joins them. She
looks dazed, horny. Zogi steps toward Ming.
ZOGI
Your Majesty...
Ming takes Dale's hand, leads her toward the Altar.
DALE
What... where... ohhh...
Ming kisses her hand, his eyes gleaming.
MING
Here open the Gates Of Heaven.
ZOGI
Sire... the Sacred Oracle. There
are grave portents --
MING
Rrrrr! Cease your pathetic
sniveling! Not even the Gods may
dictate to Ming.
Zogi subsides reluctantly. Ming leads Dale to the Altar.
Voluptuous dancers writhe and sway sensuously around them in
wild abandon. Dale watches through dazed eyes, breathing heavily.
DALE
No... what... ohhhh...
MING
'Tis but the fulfillment of thy
destiny, my dear. Thou shalt be a
vessel for Our Imperial enjoyment!
Dale swoons. Ming holds her up.
MING
Ahhhh... overcome with anticipation.
Do not worry... We will be gentle...
should it suit Us.
He presses her against his body. His eyes, long-nailed hands
move slowly over her succulent flesh.
DALE
Ohhhhh... uhhhhh...
She succumbs, trembling. Ming lasciviously kisses her neck,
shoulders, breasts. He looks up, his eyes blazing.
62.
MING
Let the consummation... commence!
Dancing and MUSIC swell in relentless, pagan intensity.
INT. CAVERN HANGAR - NIGHT
Aura's shuttle touches down in a BLAST of retros.
The hatch swings open, Aura looks out, sees that her rocket
car's gone.
AURA
Aughhhh... Flash, you fool!
Armed with a blaster rifle, she jumps out, runs across the
cavern toward the rocket sleds.
INT. TUNNEL STAIRWAY
Flash and Thun climb far above the bottom, which is lost in
eddying mist. Flat, kite-like creatures glide past, CRYING
shrilly.
FLASH
God -- we must've climbed halfway
into orbit by now.
On a wide landing they round a corner -- and are confronted by
four IMPERIAL SOLDIERS.
SOLDIER
Rebels! Stop --
Thun ROARS, leaps at them. Flash decks the nearest Soldier with
a punch, leaps at the others. Thun flings two of them off the
stairway into the depths.
SOLDIERS
YAAAAAAAAA --
A Young Soldier FIRES his rifle -- Flash ducks -- grabs the
barrel -- lifts him off his feet with a solid uppercut. The
Soldier falls, clutches desperately at the ledge.
THUN
Let's go!
He grabs a rifle, starts up the steps. Flash hesitates, looks
down at the frightened Soldier, his grip failing.
63.
THUN
Flash! Come on --
Flash grabs the Soldier as he falls. They teeter for a moment
over the edge, Flash hauls him to safety. Thun joins them as
the stunned Soldier looks at Flash.
FLASH
We're gonna have to tie you up, kid.
Nothin' personal.
He clamps energy binders on the Soldier's wrists.
THUN
They would show us no such mercy.
FLASH
That's no excuse.
He finishes securing the Soldier.
FLASH
Come on.
The Soldier watches them run up the stairs, impressed.
INT. CATACOMBS
They stop as the SOUND of faint pagan MUSIC reaches them. They
look around, Thun sniffs the air, wrinkles his nose.
THUN
We're close. Careful.
FLASH
Where's that coming -- There!
INT. TUNNEL DOOR
Huge, steel-studded, with a fearsome symbol of the God Dy'zan
embossed on it. Flash presses an ear against it. The exotic
MUSIC is much louder.
FLASH
Gimme a hand here --
They strain against it. Slowly, it opens. SOUNDS of the
marriage ceremony wash out over them.
64.
INT. HALL OF BINDING - DAY
Ming holds the dazed, aroused Dale in his arms, gazes lecherously
into her eyes. Throughout the huge chamber, the orgiastic
ritual is in full swing. Debauchery reigns everywhere.
SLAVES & GUESTS
Hail, Ming! Emperor of the Universe!
Hail, Ming! Long live Ming!
Revellers toke on electronic hookahs, their eyes glowing
strangely. Floating divans hold coupling alien and human forms.
Ming nuzzles and fondles Dale, further arousing her.
DALE
Ohhhhh...
She melts into his arms, he kisses her breasts.
Zogi watches distastefully.
Dancers writhe, snake, undulate to the hypnotic, sensuous MUSIC.
The brooding Sphinx gazes down on the revelry, incense smoke
rises, synchronized beams of light play about it. On a ledge
high above, a many-armed, skull-covered idol sits.
Ming looks up from between Dale's heaving breasts. He hands her
to Zogi, and turns to face the assembled throng.
SLAVES & GUESTS
Hail -- Ming! Long live Ming!
ZOGI
It is the prescribed Hour of Dy'zan!
A melodic GONG sounds. Dancers stop, kneel facing the Altar.
They glow with rampant sexual energy, which they project to Ming.
MUSIC, strange CHANTS continue to build.
Ming breathes deeply, his body glows as he absorbs the erotic
power. He raises his arms to the Sphinx, his evil eyes aglow.
MING
Dia ad adhaigh's ad adoaun! Dhonas
dunas ort... agus leat-sa!
Zogi glances up nervously as dark clouds race across the starry
sky. Purple lightning CRACKLES.
Ming presses Dale's hand to his lips. She moans softly, he
holds her against him, his energy bleeds over into her.
65.
DALE
Oh... ohhhhhh -- ah --
Beams of potent energy from Ming's eyes bathe Dale's helpless
body, lingering on her abundant assets.
In one corner, a serpentine idol slides aside. Aura cautiously
emerges, blaster rifle ready. She glances around.
At the altar, Zogi nervously eyes the Sphinx.
Above, dark clouds roil and swirl.
Dancers undulate around the altar as Ming and Dale blaze with
sexual heat.
INT. SECRET PASSAGE - BALCONY
Flash and Thun creep onto a ledge, peer down at the erotic
ceremony. MUSIC, CHANTS are at fever pitch. Flash looks
horrified.
FLASH
Dale -- !
He starts forward, Thun pulls him back.
THUN
Wait!
FLASH
We've got to --
THUN
You'll do her no good if you're
slain. We need strategy, not
reckless action.
Flash's in agony, but he forces himself to wait.
INT. HALL OF BINDING
Zogi nervously adds powder to a floating brazier. Green smoke
and vari-colored mists swirl about the Sphinx's head. Its huge,
faceted eyes glow.
Beams of scintillating energy shine from floating globes around
the room, illuminating statues of Alien Gods. The Temple
CRACKLES with energy. CHANTS, MUSIC swell --
66.
MING
Get on with it, fool! The power
approaches its peak! We must...
CONSUME her now...
ZOGI
I-in the eyes of the Most High God
Dy'zan... for His Greater Glory...
in the presence of this August
company...
The GONG sounds. Ming strokes Dale's quivering body slowly,
feeds more of his sexual power into her.
DALE
OHHHHHHHH!
She succumbs, helpless as Ming fondles her. Zogi glances
nervously at the skull-garlanded idol on the ledge. Its ruby
eyes glow ominously.
Aura slips behind large vases and statuary, searching the crowd
for Flash.
Flash and Thun edge along the balcony, duck behind the multi-
armed idol.
FLASH
I'm gonna stop this now.
THUN
You'll get us --
FLASH
Listen, I don't expect you to die
for us, Thun. Thanks for your help.
I'll take it from here.
He starts to move off Thun shakes his head, grumbles.
THUN
So who wants to live forever?
They edge around to get a better look.
At the Altar, Zogi hands Ming a glowing, jeweled goblet. He
inhales its fumes deeply, glows with pulsating, scarlet light.
Dale falls limply across his arm. The GONG sounds as Ming sips
from the goblet.
Zogi takes the goblet, nods to an Acolyte who lifts Dale's head.
DALE
No... ohhhhhhhhhh... Flash...
67.
On the balcony, Flash's finger tightens on the blaster's trigger.
THUN
Steady, Flash.
FLASH
The Hell with this!
Ming watches the glowing liquid poured down Dale's throat.
MING
And now...
He reaches for her, their bodies mingle in a brilliant blaze of
sexual fire.
On the balcony, Flash leaps to his feet.
FLASH
Dale!!!
Dancing. Revellery. MUSIC. DRUMS.
SLAVES & GUESTS
Hail, Ming! Hail, Ming!
On the balcony, Flash glances at the multi-armed idol.
FLASH
Thun -- gimme a hand...
He pushes against it. Thun sets the weapons down, strains
against the idol. They grunt with exertion. CRUNCH -- the idol
shifts as they push.
Aura looks up toward the SOUND of stone on stone. Her eyes
widen:
Above, Flash and Thun strain at the huge idol.
AURA
Flash... no...
At the Altar, Zogi holds the glowing cup up to the Sphinx. A
shaft of glistening energy from the idol bathes it. Zogi moves
the mixture toward Dale who breathes heavily.
ZOGI
Thus the sanction of Almighty
Dy'zan maketh holy and binding this
union... this meeting of two
worlds...
On the balcony -- Flash and Thun strain mightily against the idol.
68.
FLASH
UNNNNNGH!
It shifts with a loud GROAN. The startled gathering looks up.
The eerie idol moves, seemingly alive. CRUNCH! Zogi and Ming
look toward it.
MING
Eh? What -- what is the meaning of
this?!
ZOGI
I -- I know not, Majesty. Aiee --
beware!
Flash and Thun push mightily, shaking with the effort.
ZOGI
The God is displeased!
One final Herculean shove -- the idol leans forward. Ming and
Zogi stare at the teetering statue as the others move back in
fear.
MING
Guards -- !
The Statue topples. Everyone jumps clear, Ming holds Dale close.
It SHATTERS on the Altar, throwing the crowd into panic. Several
floating globes are demolished in the fall -- UNLEASHED energy
bolts fly everywhere.
REVELLERS
(AD LIB)
Look out -- flee -- look out!
Overhead, violet lightning arcs through the massed clouds.
INT. TEMPLE CORRIDOR
A dozen of Ming's Imperial Guards jump to attention at the OS
CRASH, SHOUTS of panic inside.
CAPTAIN TORCH
Summon General Klytus.
He starts to open the door as a Guard dashes off.
INT. HALL OF BINDING
Aura smiles up at Flash on the balcony.
69.
AURA
Flash... you magnificent fool!
Thun hoists his blaster -- FIRES at the door --
As the Guards swarm in -- Thun's shot triggers an EXPLOSION --
knocks several of them sprawling.
Ming stares up at the intruders, trembling with rage.
MING
What?! Gordon!? BY THUNDER --
Flash leaps into a triple somersault -- bounces off the Sphinx --
another flip -- launches off the fallen idol -- lands beside Dale.
THUN
Stand where you are!
He fires a BLAST into the gathering, they scatter for cover.
GUESTS
(AD LIB)
Help! Rebels! Aieeeee --
MING
You will suffer a thousand deaths
for this indignity --
FLASH
Shaddap, Ming. I wouldn't press my
luck if I were you. Release her.
Ming raises his hand, his rings glowing with power.
MING
YOU DARE TO --
Flash dodges the BLAST, closes the distance, jams his pistol
against Ming's throat.
FLASH
I won't ask you again!
Seething, Ming nods to Zogi, who activates a crystal on the end
of his staff. Dale gasps, trembling, slumps into Flash's arms.
Her sexually-charged aura makes him jump as he catches her.
FLASH
Ow! What the --
He moves her away from Ming, glares at him. The glow slowly
leaves Dale's trembling body.
70.
Aura watches from hiding, jealous, those magnificent breasts
heaving.
DALE
Ohhhhh...
One eye on Ming, Flash gently shakes Dale. Her eyes flutter open.
DALE
Where... Oh, Flash! Oh -- you're
alive!
She kisses him. The Guards start forward.
On the balcony -- Thun FIRES --
-- the bolt BLASTS several Guards to atoms. Flash levels his
pistol at Ming.
FLASH
Drop 'em, me hearties. NOW!
They drop their weapons. Flash glares at Ming.
FLASH
And knock off the glowing!
Ming glares impotently at Flash, apoplectic, frustrated.
MING
For this, you will suffer as no man
has suffered before! Agony upon
agony We shall heap upon --
FLASH
Get a hobby.
Thun moves into view high above.
THUN
Hurry, Flash!
MING
We have underestimated you. There
will come a reckoning, Gordon. We
promise.
Flash backs toward the steps, his gun aimed at Ming.
Aura watches petulantly, her violet eyes flashing.
FLASH
Any time, pal, any time.
71.
Flash sprints up the steps with Dale. Thun covers them as they
run past.
FLASH
Let's go.
Thun swings his weapon to bear on Ming, who cowers back.
FLASH
NO -- gun Ming down now, they'll be
all over us.
DALE
Whatever we do, could we do it
quickly?
Weapons trained on Ming, they back into the tunnel, turn and run.
Klytus and his Shock Troops swarm in. Ming seethes with rage.
MING
Imbeciles! Get up there and
capture them! If they escape, I
will feed you ALL to the gokko!
Aura slips behind the serpent statue. It slides back into place.
ZOGI
I warned you that the Gods opposed --
Ming strikes him to the floor, where he cringes.
MING
Silence! Even the High Priest may
have his tongue torn out for
insolence!
ZOGI
Yes... Sire. Mercy -- mer --
Ming grabs a sword from one of his Guards, pulls Zogi to his
feet, puts the sword point at his throat.
MING
Hie to your lair and discover
whither they have fled, vermin.
Quickly! If they escape me...
Zogi skulks away. Ming gnashes his teeth in impotent rage,
hurls the sword at the frightened Guests.
MING
WELL?!?! BEGONE!!!
They scatter.
72.
INT. CATACOMB TUNNELS
Flash, Dale and Thun run through the unearthly caverns. Thun
glances back. Dale eyes Thun warily.
DALE
Who's that?
FLASH
A friend. Prince Thun of Argentia,
Dale Arden.
Thun nods, looks Dale over appreciatively.
THUN
I see why you risked your life to
rescue her.
DALE
Oh, really? I think I like him.
They stop at an intersection of several tunnels that all look
pretty much the same.
FLASH
Which way?
Thun sniffs the air in each tunnel, shrugs.
DALE
Oh, God -- what a day.
She slumps against Flash. He holds her tenderly.
FLASH
Are you okay?
DALE
Just wondering what took you so long.
FLASH
Sorry, I hit all the lights.
They hug. Dale's still juiced from the ceremony, Flash feels
the rampant sexual energy flowing through her.
FLASH
Whoa. Dale, what --
DALE
Oh, Flash... I thought you were
dead...
73.
FLASH
Not before I made sure you were safe.
DALE
Oh, God... if you don't kiss me --
They start to kiss. Plasma BLASTS hit the rocks around them.
DALE
Dammit!
They run off as ENERGY BOLTS rip and SIZZLE through the air
around them.
INT. ANOTHER TUNNEL
Thun speeds along on all fours, pauses to rip a SHOT off behind
him.
A Shock Trooper's head EXPLODES -- he falls, smoking, to the
ground. The others dive for cover, return fire.
KLYTUS
Set weapons on stun! The Emperor
wants them alive.
Flash, Dale, and Thun flee from careening ENERGY BOLTS, disappear
around a bend in the tunnel. Cautiously, Klytus and his men
follow, FIRING shimmering blue stun-beams down the tunnel.
INT. TUNNEL
Flash, Dale and Thun run through winding corridors. The incline
gets steeper. Suddenly --
DALE
Oh -- !
At the top they plunge down an almost vertical incline. Dale
screams. They hurtle down --
INT. UNDERGROUND RIVER
-- and splash into the swirling waters. The raging current
sweeps them over a falls into a lake. Dale goes under, stunned.
FLASH
Dale!
UNDERWATER
74.
Flash slips an arm around her, kicks for the surface. Strange
marine life swirls and eddies around them.
INT. UNDERGROUND RIVER
Flash tows Dale to shore. As he reaches to pull her out, she
screams! Powerful, green, scaly arms yank her under.
FLASH
Dale!!!
He dives in. Thun ROARS, swims toward the spot where they went
under.
INT. TWILIT GROTTO - DAY
Thun erupts from the river in a spray of foam, gasping and
sputtering. He drags himself out, collapses on the rocky shore.
He throws his head back, HOWLS --
The savage sound ECHOES through the caverns...
EXT. GREAT SEA OF MONGO - DAY
Thun's MOURNFUL HOWL echoes faintly. Exotic sea animals leap
from the water, splash back down beneath the surface, where...
UNDERWATER
Four Shark Men carry Flash and Dale through a fantastic world of
undersea beauty. Flash and Dale wear bubble helmets with small
air tanks, and gaze around in wonder.
Strange marine life darts and flits through the water around
them. Some glow with delicate, fairy-like light... some are
living rainbows... others CRACKLE with electricity, ripple and
pulse with fantastic shapes.
Flash and Dale are borne through a towering coral and plant
forest. Dale's raven hair billows around her like a cloud.
A gigantic spiked eel-like CREATURE ripples toward them, its
mouth open wide. Shark Men fire energy harpoons at it -- it
writhes off into the depths in a cloud of bubbles.
EXT. SHORELINE - DAY
Aura, near her shuttle, rifle in hand, anxiously scans the shore.
Turquoise surf washes against the pink sand.
75.
She gazes out to sea, her eyes narrow. A huge ringed moon rises
on the horizon.
She raises a hand scanner, sweeps it around, frowns at the
readings.
AURA
Damn it...
Iridescent-winged, graceful, translucent manta-like creatures
wheel overhead, their vibrating CRIES mingle eerily with the
pounding surf.
EXT. A JAGGED CRYSTAL OUTCROPPING - DAY
Above, hidden behind exotic crystal and coral, the Hooded Figure
watches. A lizard-like biped with curved tusks and a saddle
grazes some distance behind him.
EXT. UNDERWATER
Shark Men carry Flash and Dale through a coral ridge toward
Corallia -- a fabulous undersea city lit by glowing clusters of
sea-life. It's fashioned from reefs, shells, and the skeletal
remains of huge ocean creatures.
EXT. UNDERWATER, CORALLIA - A HUGE PALACE
They swim past and through titanic marine idols flanking an
enormous courtyard. Shark People swim and dart, some ride
seahorse-like creatures.
Flash, Dale and their escorts swim into the palace through a
wall of water which remains unbroken behind them.
INT. THRONE ROOM
Flash and Dale look uneasily at the shimmering walls of water
around the room, kept back by force-fields. Dale's wet outfit
clings to her, erect nipples press against the sheer fabric.
Shark Men take their helmets from them.
FLASH
Air. Whew, that's a relief. Now
what, pal?
DALE
At least we're alive... and away
from that horrible Ming.
76.
The Shark Men react fearfully to Ming's name.
FLASH
Looks like you said the magic word.
Maybe we can find some help here.
He notices her outfit, smiles. Dale blushes, covers herself
shyly.
DALE
Hey... give a girl a break, huh?
Flash slips what's left of his flight jacket over her shoulders.
FLASH
That what the well-dressed Empress
is wearing these days?
DALE
Oh, don't tease me, you...
They hug.
FLASH
I wonder what we --
KALA enters, attended by Hammerhead Guards, and Shark People.
He assumes the throne, looks them over. Even for a Shark Man
he's repulsive... short, thick, belligerent, with cold, dead eyes.
FLASH
I take it you're in charge here.
KALA
I am Kala, ruler of the Great Sea
of Mongo.
DALE
Does everybody here have their own
kingdom?
FLASH KALA
We're -- You are traitors and fugitives.
Emperor Ming has offered a
reward for your capture.
Flash and Dale react, on guard. Kala's soulless eyes bore into
them.
FLASH
Uh, you weren't thinkin' about
collecting it... were you?
77.
KALA
The reward is life. Treason is
punishable by death under Ming's Law.
DALE
You mean you're afraid of him.
Point for Dale. Kala glowers, Flash smiles at Dale, folds
powerful arms across his chest. Shark People murmur, Kala
glares at them, pissed.
KALA
I fear no one! I --
FLASH
Great -- prove it. Defy Ming. Let
us go.
Kala turns away. Dale steps forward.
DALE
It's high time someone stood up to
him.
KALA
Impossible! The Imperial Army is
far too powerful...
FLASH
Not if you all band together. You,
Prince Thun's kingdom? Together,
you'd be more than a match for Ming.
DALE
Overthrow him. Free your world.
(raises a fist)
Power to the -- er, fish!
Flash raises an eyebrow, she shrugs. Shark People murmur to
each other speculatively. Kala glances around uncomfortably.
KALA
Bah! Madness. Who would rule?
FLASH
The only effective government is
self-government! Trust each other.
DALE
We do on our world.
(Flash glances at her)
Work with me here, huh?
78.
Kala considers their words. Flash and Dale exchange a hopeful
look.
KALA
Risk our lives for fugitives? I
think not.
FLASH
No guts, eh?
Kala blinks at him, uncomprehending.
DALE
Backbone. Spine. Bal -- er,
Courage.
Kala rises, bares several rows of hideous teeth, grabs a trident
from a Hammerhead guard.
KALA
We shall see who is a coward,
outworlder!
Dale starts toward Flash, two Shark Men grab her. Flash
crouches, circles Kala warily.
FLASH
Is this one of those win your
freedom deals?
KALA
All you will win is death. Yaaaagh!
He attacks -- Flash feints, sidesteps, flips him on his ass.
Kala skids across the floor.
KALA
Uhhh -- !
Shark People react, surprised. Kala jumps up, circles warily,
jabs Flash with the trident. Powerful electric energy CRACKLES
around Flash, he grimaces, knocked to his knees. Kala lunges --
DALE
Oh! Flash -- watch out --
Flash barely evades the thrust, grabs Kala's arm, they grapple.
The trident CRACKLES, showers sparks off the floor.
KALA
I will destroy you --
FLASH
Destroy this, fish-face! Whuh --
79.
Flash rolls back, stomach-throws him into his Hammerhead Guards,
scattering them like pins.
DALE
Yes! Go, Flash, go! Stick it to
'em, big guy!
Flash's up first, but Kala's trident slashes through his shirt,
forces him back.
FLASH
Uh! This is a waste of time -- we
could --
They circle, Kala grabs a net, swings it at Flash.
DALE
Hey, you lousy -- lemme go! He's
cheating! Flash!
She struggles to break free.
KALA
You will beg for death...
FLASH
I will if I have to listen to any
more of your corny speeches --
Kala swings the net, almost traps Flash. He jabs with the
trident, Flash uses the net to foul his aim. Flash bashes Kala
in the face several times, drop-kicks him across the room.
FLASH
... Had enough?
Kala snarls, hurls the trident. Flash ducks, it imbeds in the
throne, sparking. Kala rushes him, whips the net over Flash's
head. As Flash struggles, unable to see, Kala slashes at him
with a bone and coral knife.
DALE
Flash -- duck! Look --
Flash twists aside -- gets a glancing blow across the ribs.
FLASH
Uh!
He falls, Kala kicks him viciously across the floor.
FLASH
Aaaagh!
80.
Kala tries to impale him, Flash rolls out of the way of the
savage thrusts. Dale watches, anguished, as Shark People press
in to see the battle.
DALE
Flash!
Kala has Flash by the throat from behind, strangling him. Flash
flips him over his head, Kala skids across the floor. Flash
charges toward the Shark Man -- Kala flings a handful of shell
fragments into his eyes.
FLASH
Ungh!
Kala grabs the trident, leaps onto him, they wrestle. Kala
sweeps Flash's feet out from under him -- Flash hits the floor
hard. Kala leaps onto him, drives the trident down toward
Flash's head.
Dale screams.
Flash barely avoids the deadly trident as it jams into the floor.
He knees Kala in the stomach, kicks the trident out of the Shark
Man's hand. Flash hauls him to his feet, measures the gasping
tyrant, lifts him off his feet with a haymaker.
KALA
Ungh!
He collapses in a heap. Flash rises, panting. Dale runs to
him, he winces as she touches his wound.
FLASH
Ow! S'okay, just a scratch.
(to Shark Men)
Well. Since I whipped his butt,
does that make me the big Kahuna?
No one helps Kala. He gets shakily to his feet.
FLASH
How about it? Or do we need to go
around one more time?
KALA
You have earned the right to
freedom...
DALE
We've heard that one before.
81.
KALA
When the suns rise again... you
will be released.
FLASH
Until then?
Kala bows sullenly.
KALA
You are our guests.
Shark Men bow to Flash and Dale. Though suspicious, they nod
thanks, follow them out. Kala watches sullenly.
INT. CORRIDOR
Flash and Dale follow the shuffling Shark Men through an undersea
passage. Curious Shark People watch as they pass.
FLASH
What d'you think?
DALE
Definitely keep an eye on the
referee, darling.
INT. TWILIT GROTTO - DAY
Aura picks up a veil from Dale's dress off the ground. She
tenses -- spins to her feet, blaster ready. Thun steps out of
the shadows, his cat-like eyes glowing.
AURA
Believe it or not, I'm glad you're
still alive.
THUN
Then come give me a hug.
He steps forward, she primes her weapon. Thun glares at her.
Aura smiles seductively.
AURA
Truce, lionman? I have a ship, but
I can't rescue them alone.
Thun laughs disdainfully.
THUN
And I should be stupid enough to
trust Ming's daughter because...
82.
Aura shrugs, gives him a sultry smile.
AURA
Because otherwise, Kala will either
kill them, or return them to my
father.
Thun thinks this over, growls. Aura smiles.
INT. CORALLIA, CORRIDOR
Flash and Dale follow the Shark Men on a suspended undersea
walkway. All around them the water's kept back by force-fields.
Drifting lightfish provide breathtaking illumination, fantastic
marine life swims past.
Dale grips Flash's arm as AN IMMENSE EYE OPENS BENEATH THEM.
DALE FLASH
Oh! Uh-oh.
A gigantic form fills the sea around them. It blinks solemnly,
then swims lazily off, causing the walkway to sway. A cloud of
small, vibrant neon fish follows it.
DALE
You know, if everything weren't
trying to annihilate us, this
wouldn't be a bad spot for a
vacation.
FLASH
I dunno... it's no Coney Island.
(to Shark Man)
Hey, buddy, where we going, huh?
INT. CORRIDOR
The Shark Men stop, bow obsequiously. A scalloped doorway in
the wall irises open, Flash and Dale peer in.
DALE
Whadda ya think?
FLASH
He did give us his word...
He takes her hand, they look into each other's eyes.
FLASH
Though I don't like the idea of
being separated.
83.
DALE
Me either. But...
FLASH
Yeah, I know. Listen, if anything
happens --
DALE
You'll be the first to know, big guy.
Soft kiss, she slips her arms around his neck.
DALE
If only we could... I don't know...
even though he's responsible, I
wish Zarkov were here.
FLASH
Don't worry, Dale. We'll find a
way out of this.
They part reluctantly. Dale manages a smile, follows the Shark
Men into a chamber across the corridor. Flash watches them a
moment, warily enters his chamber.
INT. NAUTILUS CHAMBER
It's organically shaped, with steel-like walls, and one
transparent membrane high up. Flash turns toward the door.
FLASH
Quaint. Say, where's the --
The hatch seals with a SUCKING sound. He throws himself against
it. It's solid, seamless.
FLASH
Damn! Dale! Dale!
INT. GREAT HALL
Dale stops, suspicious. This doesn't feel right. She's in a
split-level hall, from which several other levels are visible,
along with strange, incomprehensible devices.
DALE
Wait a minute... this doesn't look
like --
They grab her and drag her, struggling, onto a bubble lift. It
rises up the serrated wall.
84.
EXT. UNDERWATER
Aura's tiny sub moves past towering vegetation waving gently in
the undersea currents.
INT. SUB - MOVING
Aura's at the controls, in body armor, helm. Thun rides shotgun,
watching her every move. An ALARM purrs. Aura glances at a
tactical screen. Several large targets close on them.
EXT. UNDERWATER
Huge, fearsome-looking sea creatures approach. The sub ZAPS
them with concentric energy rings, they scatter.
INT. SUB - MOVING
They're buffeted by the wake. Thun growls nervously, grips a
console. Aura smiles, rocks the controls slightly. Thun shoots
her a warning look, she laughs.
EXT. MING'S PALACE - NIGHT
Several moons fill the purple skies.
INT. THRONE ROOM - NIGHT
Ming feeds chunks of raw meat to a ferocious-looking six-legged
snarling beast wearing a heavy chain, spiked collar. Klytus
approaches, salutes.
KLYTUS
Sire.
MING
It had better be good news.
The beast GROWLS, eyes Klytus hungrily, jaws dripping. Klytus
backs off slightly.
KLYTUS
Eh, the fugitives were captured by
General Kala, sire.
MING
Then why did he not advise Us?!
Fah!
(MORE)
85.
MING (CONT'D)
This epidemic of civil disobedience
grows tiresome. Something must be
done!
KLYTUS
Shall we annihilate his kingdom,
Sire? A war rocket fleet can be
dispatched within the hour.
The Beast snuggles against Ming, PURRS as he thoughtfully
scratches its ugly, scaly head.
MING
No. Prepare Our Imperial
submersible. Perhaps it is time to
take a firmer hand with Our subjects.
Klytus salutes, exits hastily. Ming chuckles, pets the hideous
creature as it GROWLS after him.
MING
No, no, no... we still have need of
him.
EXT. UNDERWATER, CORALLIA
Aura's sub moves toward the vast city beneath the sea.
INT. SUB - MOVING
In helmet and lung at the airlock, Aura helps Thun adjust his
too-small gear. She giggles, he growls.
EXT. UNDERWATER
They're ejected in a blast of bubbles, rifles in hand.
INT. NAUTILUS CHAMBER
Flash searches for a way out. Suddenly, water blasts in through
multiple openings. Flash grits his teeth in anger.
FLASH
Son-of-a -- KALAAAAAAAA!!!
The water level rises rapidly.
86.
INT. CONTROL ROOM
Kala turns from the viewing membrane as two Shark Men drag Dale
in.
DALE
Let me go, you -- uh! Let -- me --
KALA
Save your strength. Emperor Ming
wants you undamaged.
DALE
You lying flounder! We're no
threat to your crummy city! All we
want is --
Kala pulls her to the membrane, points into the adjoining
chamber. She looks down, gasps in horror:
DALE
Flash! FLASH --
INTERCUT with NAUTILUS CHAMBER.
Dale looks down into a chamber already half-full with water.
Flash looks up at the sound of her voice.
FLASH
Dale!
DALE
Flash! Flash!
He swims toward the wall. The membrane's still too high for him
to reach. He tries to jump, falls back.
Kala and the Shark Men laugh sadistically.
KALA
Never fear... he won't be alone for
long. Look there! Look!
He passes a hand above a light on a nearby console.
UNDERWATER
A translucent, pulsing KRAKENOID shoots out of an opening, darts
around the bottom of the tank. 12' long, it has huge, luminous
eyes, long tentacles ridged with spines and suckers. It senses
something in the water above.
87.
INT. CONTROL ROOM
Dale struggles to break free from the two Shark Men.
DALE
Flash! Flash!
KALA
Where is your bravado now,
outworlder?
INTERCUT with NAUTILUS CHAMBER.
A slimy, ridged tentacle shoots out of the water, wraps itself
around Flash. He struggles --
FLASH
What --
Dale screams, tries to push through the membrane. Kala grabs her.
DALE
No! Help him! Flash! Flash --
Flash desperately battles a forest of gelatinous tentacles.
He's yanked under!
Dale screams in horror!
The water foams and bubbles...
DALE
No! Let him -- Flash! Flash!
The Shark Men laugh hideously, crowd around the viewing membranes.
UNDERWATER
Flash battles ridged, suckered tentacles that lash and squeeze
him mercilessly. Blood, bubbles rise toward the surface. He
gasps in agony, kicks desperately to get free.
INT. CONTROL ROOM
Kala turns to Dale. She looks away from the scene below, sobs.
DALE
No! Please -- you can't -- save
him! Please!
Kala runs a scaly hand along her jaw. Dale shrinks back,
repulsed.
88.
KALA
By Poseidos, I begin to understand
Ming's obsession. Perhaps I won't
turn you in after all, eh, my proud
beauty?
Dale kicks at him, he barely escapes with his balls intact. He
smiles cruelly.
KALA
Take her to the holding tank. I
will be there directly.
Shark Men drag Dale out. Kala turns to the membrane.
UNDERWATER
Flash wriggles free, kicks desperately for the surface as
tentacles whip after him.
He breaks the surface -- gasps -- is dragged underwater.
INT. PALACE, MAIN HALL
Aura and Thun slip through the watery membrane. She looks
annoyed as Thun shakes water all over her, like a large dog.
Weapons in hand, they move down the corridor.
INT. PALACE CORRIDOR
Shark Men slouch down the hall. Aura and Thun step out, rifles
leveled. The Shark Men raise their webbed hands.
AURA
The Earth man -- where is he?
They sneer. She crisps one into a smoking puddle. The others
cower.
AURA
I won't ask again!
INT. NAUTILUS CHAMBER, UNDERWATER
Flash fights desperately, dragged toward a cilia-lined maw. He
kicks the Krakenoid in one eye. It releases him, he shoots for
the surface.
89.
EXT. SKY - NIGHT
A fleet of war rockets cruises through the heavens.
INT. IMPERIAL FLAGSHIP BRIDGE
Ming broods in the command seat as Klytus approaches.
KLYTUS
We are on final approach to
Corallia, Sire. Shall we alert
them to expect us?
MING
I think not... that aquatic imbecile
had his chance. It has been far
too long since We were obliged to
blast one of Our kingdoms into
rubble. Heh, heh, heh. Eh? What
is that?
He peers into a viewer.
It shows a pod of long-necked sea beasts swimming on the surface.
MING
Excellent! Excellent... a bit of
target practice to sharpen Our aim.
He pulls the targeting device down, adjusts it.
MING
Steady... steady... bring Us lower...
EXT. SKY - NIGHT
The fleet hurtles above a gunmetal sea. A large, snake-necked
sea beast rises from the waves to watch it. The flagship
dives -- BLASTS the sea beasts. They dive, though several are
killed by ray blasts.
INT. CORALLIA, CONTROL ROOM
Kala watches, pleased, as:
UNDERWATER
Flash struggles. A tentacle squeezes his neck, he pulls at it
as others squeeze him savagely. Air bubbles, blood fill the
water. He battles the monster for his life.
90.
INT. PALACE CORRIDOR
Shark Men drag Dale along as she struggles.
DALE
Let me go, you -- oh! Let me --
At the opposite end, Thun and Aura emerge in time to see them.
Thun GROWLS, raises his rifle. Aura stops him.
AURA
Quietly! We don't want the whole
damn city on our necks!
Thun dashes after them on all fours. Aura smiles, sprints off
in the opposite direction.
INT. NAUTILUS CHAMBER
Flash struggles, exhausted, as tentacles squeeze him brutally.
He's dragged under. His uniform's torn, his powerful muscles
tense as he struggles. It looks bad. The krakenoid drags him
toward its lair.
INT. CONTROL ROOM
Kala and the Shark Men laugh and jeer cruelly.
KALA
I grow bored with this. Perhaps it
is time to add another of my pets...
He reaches for a lever -- an ENERGY BOLT ricochets off the panel.
He leaps back, his burned hand smoking. Aura's in the doorway,
her rifle pointed at his head.
KALA
What is the meaning of -- ?!
AURA
Stand away from there! STAND AWAY!
They edge back. Aura runs to the membrane. Shark Men start
toward her, she crisps one to a smoking puddle on the floor.
The others back off. Covering Kala with the blaster, she looks
down, gasps.
INTERCUT with NAUTILUS CHAMBER.
Flash struggles weakly on the churning surface. A tentacle
drags him under. He looks all but finished, arms limp.
91.
The Krakenoid slowly pulls him toward its serrated maw.
Aura turns to Kala, her eyes blazing.
AURA
Get him out of there!
KALA
It -- it is too late. See --
UNDERWATER
Flash's dragged closer to the CLACKING, jagged orifice, now
almost completely limp.
INT. CONTROL ROOM
Kala cowers as Aura presses the blaster against his ugly head.
AURA
Get him out of there! NOW!
KALA
Y-you do not rule --
She smashes him across the head with her weapon.
AURA
If he dies so help me I will have
you scaled and gutted!
Kala edges to the panel, fumbles for some coral switches. Aura
jams the rifle against his scaly head.
KALA
Careful... unghh -- c-careful with
that --
UNDERWATER
Flash struggles weakly in the monster's grip as the water
quickly drains. The level falls below his face, he gasps
raggedly.
INT. CONTROL ROOM
Aura watches anxiously, rifle jammed against Kala's head.
AURA
Hurry it up! Hurry it up!
92.
KALA
C-careful -- be careful with that --
She presses it in harder. He works controls furiously.
INT. NAUTILUS CHAMBER
Flash thuds to the deck. The krakenoid writhes and flops, dying.
Gasping, weak, Flash struggles to his hands and knees, pulls
free, looks at the quivering monster.
FLASH
Last time I order sea food...
He coughs up water.
INT. CONTROL ROOM
Aura turns from the membrane, presses the gun under Kala's
chinless snout.
AURA
If you value your king's worthless
life --
They glance nervously at Kala. He nods his head frantically.
KALA
Hurry up -- GO -- GO!!!
EXT. PALACE CORRIDOR
Dale struggles -- a huge, tawny form rips into the startled
Shark Men. They YELL in terror, as Thun tears them to bits,
ROARING savagely.
Dale falls back against a bulkhead. She looks away as blood,
shark parts fly everywhere. Thun rises from the mangled bodies,
Dale runs to him, hugs him tightly.
THUN
It's all right now, Dale, we --
She suddenly looks up.
DALE
Flash --
93.
INT. CONTROL ROOM
Two Shark Men carry Flash in. Aura motions them back, moves to
him. Kala tries to sneak away, Aura BLASTS the wall next to his
head.
AURA
Stand still!
Kala subsides, trembling.
AURA
Flash -- Flash, are you all right?
Oh, Flash my beloved --
Flash shakes his head, focuses.
FLASH
... Aura?
She kisses him lasciviously.
AURA
Are you all right? Oh, Flash --
Flash glares at the cringing Kala.
FLASH
I will be in a minute.
He starts toward him, but Aura stops him.
AURA
We haven't time for that. We have
to get out of here. Before my
father arrives.
FLASH
All right -- wait, we have to find
Dale.
AURA
Already waiting for us. Hurry.
Hurry!
She pulls him to the hatch. They back out, dash up the corridor.
Kala breathes a sigh of relief.
INT. CORRIDOR
Dale and Thun race down the hall. Shark People scramble out of
their way.
94.
INT. EXIT MEMBRANE
Aura, in her gear, helps Flash with his. He looks around,
worried.
FLASH
Where are they?
AURA
I told Thun to meet us aboard.
Hurry!
Flash is suspicious. She smiles reassuringly.
AURA
Ming is undoubtedly on his way here!
Please, Flash...
He nods. She moves for the membrane, he catches her arm.
FLASH
This is the second time you've
saved my life. I guess I --
Aura kisses him.
AURA
You can show me your gratitude
later. Come.
They dive out through the membrane.
INT. MAIN CORRIDOR
Dale and Thun run along the walkway. They round a bend, Dale
sees Flash and Aura swimming toward the sub.
DALE
Thun!
THUN
DAMN Ming's bitch cub! Come!
INT. AURA'S SUB
Flash and Aura enter. He seals the airlock, looks around.
FLASH
Dale? Thun?
He takes off his helmet.
95.
FLASH
Where are they, Aura? You said --
Aura zaps him with a stun-gun.
FLASH
Aaaaaagh --
He drops to the deck, quivers, passes out. Aura leans over,
kisses him deeply.
AURA
You'll thank me for this, Beloved.
She smiles, slips into the pilot's seat.
EXT. UNDERWATER
Aura's sub slips away from the city.
INT. EXIT MEMBRANE
Dale and Thun reach the exit wall, see the sub moving away.
Dale starts to push through, Thun pulls her back.
DALE
Hurry! We have to stop her!
THUN
We'll drown. Take it easy, Dale.
We need a ship.
DALE
Oh, but --
THUN
We'll catch up to that lying
little --come, there's got to be
some kind of submersible around here.
They run down the corridor. A spear SLAMS into the wall inches
from Dale's nose, quivering. A knot of Shark Men are at the
opposite end of the hall with spear guns.
THUN
Well, what do you know? Little
grubs've got some balls after all.
Dale FIRES a volley down the hall. Shark Men dive for cover.
Thun ROARS laughter. They sprint toward an intersecting corridor.
96.
INT. CORRIDOR
Dale and Thun dash down the multi-level hall, walls of water
towering all around them. ALARM conches sound in the distance.
INT. MAIN HALL
They emerge into a transparent, bubble-like room. Thun leads
Dale toward a membrane. Outside, several subs float at anchor.
They stop, back up. Thun raises his weapon. Ming, Klytus, a
score of shock troops, several hovering weapon droids block
their way. More shock troops appear behind them, heavily armed.
MING
Dale Arden. And how have you
enjoyed your impromptu tour of Our
world so far, eh?
Evil laugh. Dale and Thun are surrounded. Shock troops take
their weapons. Two droids shine raybeams on their wrists,
encasing them in energy binders. Dale huddles close to Thun.
EXT. UNDERWATER
Aura's sub speeds away from the undersea city.
EXT. CORALLIA
Ming's Imperial submersible floats outside the palace.
INT. THRONE ROOM
Seated on the throne, Ming sips from an ornate conch shell.
MING
Ahhh! Delightful. We simply must
have a supply of this exquisite
nectar as part of your weekly
tribute.
Kala bows, sullen. Shock troops have everyone covered. Dale
and Thun glare at Ming as he offers Dale a drink. She turns
away. Ming sighs, patiently.
MING
Come, my dear, while We admire your
spirit, there is a limit to all
things, including Our patience.
97.
DALE
We're your prisoners. I guess you
win.
MING
Unfortunately, no. Flash Gordon
has eluded Us once again.
He shoots Klytus a dark look.
KLYTUS
Sire, I assure you that I --
MING
And We assure you that you had
better!
Klytus bows. Ming turns back to Dale.
MING
Oh, come, my dear! How can We
convince you this will not be such
a terrible fate, hmn?
THUN
Body transplant?
A Soldier rams an energy staff into Thun's back. He HOWLS in
pain, falls. Dale throws herself across him protectively.
MING
Amusing... in a limited intellect,
lower life form sort of way.
DALE
Why do you care what I think?
MING
We wish to show you Our good
intentions.
DALE
Sure...
MING
Ah, We have it! Supposing We were
to... agree to spare your world
further harm?
Dale looks at him, hopeful, but not trusting him.
MING
Would that convince you? Hmn?
98.
DALE
It might help.
MING
Done.
(to Klytus)
Discontinue the attack.
(to Dale, smile)
Our Wedding Gift. Eh?
He holds out a hand. Slowly, Dale gets up, takes his hand.
Ming smiles. Thun growls.
EXT. SPACE - EARTH
It hangs against a starry b.g.
EXT. NEW YORK CITY, 42ND STREET - DAY
A shambles. Building debris scattered everywhere. Overturned
vehicles burn, smoke fills the air.
EXT. PARIS - NIGHT
The Eiffel Tower, other landmarks have sustained damage.
EXT. LONDON STREET - NIGHT
Workers dig injured people out of the rubble. Searchlights
sweep the skies.
INT. OBSERVATORY - DAY
PROFESSOR GORDON, several battered SCIENTISTS gather around a
short-wave radio that emits crackling STATIC. Gordon stretches
the kinks out of his back.
GORDON
It seems we've gotten a reprieve,
gentlemen. At least for now.
MOCENIGO
Thank God, Professor Gordon. The
world couldn't have survived much
more of that!
ABERCROMBIE
Do you really think it's over?
99.
GORDON
I don't know. I suppose we'll have
to wait and see...
He lights his pipe, looks through the sky-slit beside the
massive telescope. Professor Mocenigo puts a consoling hand on
Gordon's shoulder.
MOCENIGO
Still no word?
GORDON
His plane went down outside
Washington. Most of the passengers
were rescued, but I... I can only
pray...
MOCENIGO
I am certain he's still alive,
Professor.
GORDON
Zarkov has also disappeared. I
wonder... did he have something to
do with our reprieve?
ABERCROMBIE
Humph! Unlikely. Those outlandish
theories of his -- pure poppycock!
GORDON
Professor Von Braun, from what I
understand, believes rocketry is
not only feasible, but practical.
MOCENIGO
Come now... As human transportation?
I doubt anyone could survive such a
trip. And landing on another
planet -- pish tush! Preposterous!
The others nod their sage agreement. Gordon peers thoughtfully
toward the sky, which becomes the starry void of outer space.
TILT DOWN to:
EXT. MONGO SHORE - DAY
Aura's sub rests on the beach. A huge primeval forest spreads
away inland. Giant trees, exotic blossoms, strange life forms
are visible in its depths, eerie CRIES fill the air.
100.
INT. AURA'S SUB
Flash sits up, groggy. Aura hugs him tightly.
FLASH
... I should've known better than
to trust a relative of Ming's.
Aura pouts, slips into his lap.
AURA
That's not fair! I saved your
life, didn't I?
FLASH
What about the others?
AURA
How should I know? Anyway, Thun
was supposed to --
Flash turns away.
AURA
Oh, Flash, don't be so stubborn.
Give us a chance.
FLASH
They're my friends. I won't
abandon them.
AURA
You're being unfair...
Flash gives her a look. She looks away, tears brimming.
AURA
You hate me.
FLASH
No... of course I don't --
Aura hugs him tight, kisses him. Despite himself, Flash finds
it not all that displeasing.
AURA
Was that so horrible?
FLASH
What am I gonna do with you?
She whispers in his ear. He looks shocked, shakes his head,
goes to the controls.
101.
FLASH
I give up. Where are we?
Aura caresses and rubs against him as he tries to see out the
front view port.
AURA
In paradise...
FLASH
No, really, where?
AURA
We ran out of fuel. What does it
matter? We are safe. We are
together.
She kisses him, he has a bit of trouble pulling away.
FLASH
Jeez, what is it with you?
AURA
I can't help myself. It's like a
constant itch... help me scratch...
Flash gently disengages her arms from around him.
FLASH
I'll see if we can't get you some
medication.
He moves for the hatch. Aura pouts.
AURA
You're being horrid!
Flash triggers the hatch release. Bright light floods in.
FLASH
Throw me back.
He heads out. Aura sticks her tongue out, reluctantly follows
him outside.
EXT. SHORE - DAY
Flash jumps down from the wing, helps Aura.
FLASH
Recognize it?
102.
AURA
I'm not sure. It might be part of
Argentia.
FLASH
Thun's kingdom? Great! Let's get
help --
He grabs her hand, starts off. She pulls away, sits on a rock,
shakes her head.
AURA
I cannot. They would slay me.
Flash sighs, kneels beside her.
FLASH
Aura, this is really getting --
AURA
I'm telling the truth. Thun's
people and my father are mortal
enemies.
FLASH
Oh, yeah. He did mention something
about that. Well, I can't just
leave you...
AURA
Then you do love me!
She slips her arms around him, kisses him sensuously. Flash
sighs, shakes his head, but holds her anyway. Aura kisses the
hell out of him, he does his best to resist.
FLASH
Aura... Aura... God, Aura, don't do
this to -- Aurrrraaaaa...
Aura leaps up, a hand goes to her blaster. Dazed, Flash looks
up to see a pride of LIONMEN surrounding them, lethal weapons
drawn.
FLASH
Oh, great... hi, fellas, are we --
He holds out a hand. They GROWL threateningly. Aura pulls him
back.
EXT. MONGO SKIES - DAY
Ming's fleet wings through the colorful clouds.
103.
INT. IMPERIAL FLAGSHIP BRIDGE
Ming confers with Klytus and his captains. In a corner, Dale
and Thun sit under the watchful eye of Shock troops.
THUN
Ungh. Sorry I failed you and
Flash, Dale --
DALE
What're you talking about? You
saved me.
THUN
Some rescue.
He looks sullenly at the guards. Dale rests her head against
his arm, hugs him.
DALE
Well, where I come from, it's the
thought that counts.
MING
... must pay the penalty! Gordon
has defied Us before Our subjects.
KLYTUS
Surely, if they have escaped into
the wilderness --
MING
NO! WE shall mete out this
upstart's punishment. It has
become a personal matter.
KLYTUS
As You command. What of the
lionman, Sire?
MING
Time enough to deal with him when
we reach the Imperial City.
(wrinkles his nose)
After we land, see that the ship
and the Empress are treated for
parasites.
EXT. ARGENTIA WOODS - DAY
Flash and Aura look up into snarling Lionman faces.
104.
FLASH
Hold on, fellas, we're friends of
Thun.
KIOGA, pack leader, cuffs him aside savagely, snarls.
KIOGA
Lies! Thun is dead. Fallen in
battle with Ming's jackals.
He bares his fangs at Aura. Flash pulls her close to him
protectively.
FLASH
Not true. He survived. We stormed
Ming's palace, rescued some friends
of mine.
KIOGA
Enough! You will both --
Aura steps forward defiantly.
AURA
I demand that you honor my royal
status. Return me to my kingdom at
once!
KIOGA
Hold your tongue, bitch --
He swipes a claw at her. Flash judo-flips Kioga over his
shoulder. He crouches in front of Aura, ready to rumble.
FLASH
You wanna watch your language
there, bucko.
AURA
Flash, don't --
FLASH
Shush. They can only kill us once.
She looks at him, surprised. Kioga gets to his feet.
KIOGA
So, you are one of Ming's --
FLASH
No. I just don't like bullies.
Kioga growls. For a moment it looks like he'll attack. Then:
105.
KIOGA
Rrrrrrgh... Bring them.
They grab Flash and Aura, shove them toward the forest.
AURA
I was right. You do care for me.
FLASH
Let's not start that again.
He smiles, takes her hand, she huddles close to him.
Some distance away, the Hooded Figure watches through electro-
binoculars. He lowers them, quickly disappears into the
surrounding, rocky hills.
EXT. MING'S PALACE - DAY
The populace are gathered in the streets. Ming's armored goons
are everywhere.
INT. DALE'S CHAMBERS - DAY
Dale looks up as Zogi enters.
DALE
Where's Thun? Is he --
ZOGI
You would be better served, if
you --
DALE
Ming promised me he wouldn't be
harmed.
ZOGI
Hmmn. He has not been. But I fear
the remainder of his life will not
be very pleasant.
DALE
What do you mean? What are they
going to do? Tell me!
ZOGI
All political prisoners must be
sent to Arkos, the sky city of the
Hawkmen.
106.
DALE
That doesn't sound so bad... fresh
air, sunshine?
ZOGI
Where they will labor for the rest
of their shortened lives in the
atom furnaces.
DALE
I should have known.
Zogi reaches for her hand. She pulls away.
ZOGI
You still refuse your destiny,
child? That is unwise.
Dale hangs her head, sadly.
DALE
No... I gave my word.
She takes his hand. Zogi studies her as they exit.
EXT. MING'S PALACE BALCONY - DAY
Ming, Klytus, a dozen of Ming's personal guards overlook the
gathered populace. Armored hoverskiffs flit past over the crowd.
Dale and Zogi come out.
MING
Ah, come, my dear. You see? Our
loyal subjects gather to pay thee
tribute.
Dale takes his hand reluctantly, manages a wan smile.
MING
Impressive, is it not?
DALE
Yes... they... they don't look very
happy, though.
MING
Eh? Easily remedied. Klytus...
the Empress desires that Our
subjects look happy.
Klytus signals to his men.
107.
EXT. PALACE COURTYARD - DAY
Hoverskiffs filled with Shocktroopers swoop down on the crowds.
PA VOICE
Look happy, you dogs! Look happy!
They fire BLASTERS into the crowd. The crowd panics. More
troops wade into them on foot, striking out savagely with their
shock staves.
TROOPER
You there -- look happy, swine!
The Emperor commands it! Smile,
damn you, smile!
WOMAN
Mercy -- he has no mouth!
TROOPER
Mind your own business!
He clubs down several SCREAMING citizens.
EXT. MING'S PALACE BALCONY - DAY
Horrified, Dale grabs Ming's arm.
DALE
What are they doing?!?
MING
Making Our subjects joyous. Are
you not pleased?
Dale starts to protest, thinks better of it. She weakly nods.
Ming smiles, surveys the crowd. Dale looks horrified. Behind
her, Zogi regards Ming darkly.
EXT. PALACE COURTYARD - DAY
Skimmers BLAST the helpless crowd. Footsoldiers club them
savagely.
PA VOICE
Rejoice, damn you! Rejoice!
EXT. SEASIDE CLIFFS - DAY
The Lionmen march Flash and Aura along a forested path at the
edge of a high bluff. Aura eyes the Lionmen warily.
108.
FLASH
Don't these guys ever rest?
AURA
I cannot let them take me to Thun's
father, Droobridge.
FLASH
Don't worry, I won't let them --
AURA
There will be nothing you can do.
He will seek vengeance against my
father.
Flash glances at Kioga.
FLASH
What about the laws? They're
pretty ferocious looking, but I
managed to hold my own against
Thun --
AURA
Always so noble. I've never before
met your like. I regret that I
caused you so much trouble, Flash
Gordon.
FLASH
Listen, Aura... we have to stick
together... ride this out. We
can --
She kisses him quickly. As they walk, she pulls something from
her hair.
FLASH
What --
She fires ELECTRICAL ENERGY BOLTS into the group, they fall.
Aura takes off through the trees.
KIOGA
GET -- HER!
The Lionmen stagger to their feet, lope off after her.
FLASH
Wait --
He gets up, Kioga grabs him in a bearhug, squeezes brutally.
Flash winces in agony.
109.
EXT. FOREST - DAY
Aura darts in and out, nimbly leaping fallen trees. Four
Lionmen close relentlessly, eyes narrowed, fangs bared.
Flash rams his head back into Kioga's nose, knocks the Lionman's
legs from under him. Flash takes off after Aura.
EXT. EDGE OF THE BLUFF - DAY
Aura breaks into the clear, the Lionmen gaining. One cuts her
off -- she rams her weapon into his face. The discharge hurls
him back several feet. She runs for the edge, the others in
pursuit.
A Lionman grabs her -- Flash hits them with a flying tackle.
Everyone sprawls to the ground. Aura lands hard, rolls toward
the edge -- and over.
FLASH
AURA!
He kicks free and runs after her. He leaps -- misses -- both go
over. Kioga looks over the edge.
EXT. CLIFF - DAY
Flash and Aura hang from a thick, ropy nest of plants and
creepers several feet below. The ground far beneath them is a
mass of jagged rock.
AURA
Flash -- help --
FLASH
Hang on --
He works his way hand over hand along thick viny growths toward
her.
EXT. BLUFF - DAY
Kioga slowly straightens up, smiles.
EXT. CLIFF - DAY
Flash reaches for Aura. Suddenly -- vines erupt out of the
rock -- wrap tightly around both of them.
110.
FLASH
What -- ungh!
Aura screams as they're lifted in thick, pulsing vines. Flash
grimaces in pain as vines constrict... squeeze them.
EXT. BLUFF - DAY
Kioga growls his approval, nods to his men. They lope off on
all fours.
EXT. CLIFF - DAY
Flash and Aura struggle in the hideous plant's clutches. It
throbs, pulses, KEENS horribly as it squeezes them relentlessly.
EXT. CLIFF - DAY
Flash and Aura are squeezed murderously by the deadly plant.
Aura cries out in pain, Flash struggles weakly to break free.
FLASH
... Aura... hold... on...
The vines tighten, Flash and Aura turn red, squeezed brutally.
Suddenly -- an energy bolt BLASTS the vines holding Flash!
FLASH
Uh --
The plant KEENS and shakes violently, in pain. More bolts tear
at it -- with a SHRIEK, it releases them.
AURA
... ohhhhh...
They fall -- and are suddenly snared by a thick, spongy, plant
creature clinging to the side of the cliff.
FLASH AND AURA
Uh -- oh!
Dazed, breathless, they're held tight as it launches itself off
the rocky face -- billows out several puffy bladders, and floats
toward the ground.
On the ground, they're surrounded by a dozen men and women in
forest camouflage, led by the Hooded Figure. Crossbow weapons
point at Flash and Aura. Flash nods shakily.
111.
FLASH
... yep... right on schedule...
He struggles weakly, then gives it up. Hood studies them a
moment.
HOOD
Bring them.
They prod the plant creature with their quarterstaffs. It
shuffles off with them on its back.
EXT. MING'S PALACE - DAY
Military speeders soar through the skies.
INT. DUNGEON LEVEL
Dale and Zogi enter a dark corridor. GROANS, HOWLS, CRIES of
pain and anguish echo around them. Brutal alien guards eye them
as they pass. He leads Dale to a cell. Inside, Thun's chained
to a wall.
DALE
Thun -- Do they have to do that to
him?
ZOGI
He is unharmed. For now. Be quick.
He limps away, the guards follow. Dale kneels, reaches in
through the bars. Thun stretches, their fingertips finally
touch. There are tears in her eyes.
DALE
Oh, Thun... God, I feel so --
THUN
You shouldn't come here, Dale.
DALE
That lying bastard! He said they
wouldn't hurt you...
Thun growls in wry amusement.
THUN
He's kept his word... technically.
DALE
Oh... Thun...
112.
He rumbles softly, shakes his maned head.
THUN
Don't worry about me, girl. How
are you doing?
DALE
I'm supposed to marry Ming. How do
you think I'm doing?
She wipes away her tears, Thun rumbles sympathetically.
DALE
I'll find some way to get you out
of here, I promise!
THUN
You have more important concerns.
You're the only one who can stop
Ming.
DALE
Me?! How could I...?
She realizes where this is going, shakes her head.
THUN
How long do you think he will keep
his promise? He'll conquer your
planet... destroy it if he has to...
that's what he does. It's all up
to you now, Dale.
Dale stares at him.
THUN
Two worlds... no one else can save
them.
She nods slowly, lowers her head.
EXT. ARBORIA - TREE CITY - DAY
The forest is a sprawling city formed from living trees. Huge
branches form aerial walkways. Hood leads his party toward a
massive, ancient tree. Green-garbed men and women, all ages,
watch them guardedly.
FLASH
Something tells me we're not much
better off.
113.
INT. TREE CITY - DAY
The immense tree is a sprawling community, connected by ladders,
spiral stairs that wend around the trunk, suspended walkways.
Some inhabitants swing on vines.
Hood nods. The plant is prodded until it releases Flash and Aura.
Flash looks around, impressed. Aura shivers, huddles close to
him.
FLASH
Wow...
HOOD
Come with me.
Flash looks annoyed. Rangers pull them to their feet. They
move up a spiral walkway.
FLASH
Any idea who these guys are?
AURA
Rebel scum, most likely.
HOOD
Careful, Princess Aura... today's
rebel scum may be tomorrow's king.
AURA
So, you know who I am. Who are you?
HOOD
An old friend of your father's.
INT. TREE CITADEL - DAY
It's formed by gigantic, ancient trees. Shafts of golden
sunlight filter down from the heights, creating a mystical,
sacred atmosphere. The idols are forest deities.
AURA
Oh!
FLASH
So, what happens now? Another
fight? Can't we just sit down
and --
HOOD
Afraid, outworlder?
114.
FLASH
I'm not the one hiding my identity,
am I?
Hood throws his cowl back. It's PRINCE BARIN. Aura gasps.
AURA
You!
FLASH
You know this guy?
AURA
Barin -- so-called "Prince" and
pretender to the throne of Mongo --
Barin slams his sword down on a large tree stump.
BARIN
Lies! MY family ruled Mongo for
generations... until your father
attacked our kingdom.
AURA
If you were unable to hold onto --
BARIN
Ming claimed to want peaceful
relations... then he slaughtered my
family... and hundreds of other
innocent people.
FLASH
So you're no ally of his either.
Why don't we --
Barin turns away, sits on a throne-like growth of wood and ivy.
A comely forest babe gives him a goblet.
BARIN
Prepare him. Bring in the other
prisoner.
FLASH
Hold on a minute, I'm not gonna --
BARIN
You may opt for execution instead,
if you prefer.
He sips at his drink, watches Flash. Flash grumbles as they
slip a hood over his head. The eyeholes are covered by a
faceted metal material. Aura glares at Barin.
115.
AURA
What are you going to do with me?
BARIN
Take Her Highness to her quarters.
I trust you'll find them to your
liking.
RON-KEL, a Guard, takes Aura's arm, she pulls away. After
another black look at Barin, she's marched away. Two Forest Men
escort a hooded figure into the citadel.
FLASH
Enlighten me... just how does this
differ from an execution, again?
BARIN
Trial by combat. Our laws are
just, they serve to weed out those
who do not deserve mercy.
FLASH
You can tell that just by lookin'
at me, can you?
Guards tie the two combatants' forearms together with rawhide.
Barin moves toward a smoking brazier.
BARIN
This is a war, outworlder. I'm
sure you can appreciate the fact
that the location of our citadel
must remain a secret...
FLASH
Suppose I promise not to tell?
Barin picks up two daggers, dips them into a dark, steaming
liquid. He puts them in Flash and the other figure's hands. He
stops Flash from touching the blade.
BARIN
They are dipped in krayt's blood.
The slightest scratch means
screaming madness... slow, agonizing
death. So, by the way, does
refusing to cooperate.
FLASH
As long as we have a choice...
BARIN
Fight -- NOW!
116.
The other figure lashes out wildly. Flash barely avoids the
slashing blade. He catches the arm on the backswing. They
wrestle, the other figure trips Flash.
He lands hard, the other on top of him. A deadly dagger flashes
down --
Flash rams the other's wrist against his knee, disarms him. He
slashes down -- severs the cord binding them. They stumble
apart, whip off their hoods. Flash is stunned to see:
ZARKOV
Flash Gordon!
FLASH
Dr. Zarkov!?! Zarkov???? How in
the Hell --
Zarkov hugs Flash tightly.
FLASH
I thought you were dead!
ZARKOV
I was badly hurt. Badly. These
fellows found me, and brought me
here. But I never expected to
see -- wait! Where is the young
lady? Where?
FLASH
A prisoner.
ZARKOV
Ming.
FLASH
Heard about him, huh?
ZARKOV
I've picked up a bit... here and
there.
Side-by-side, they face Barin and his people.
FLASH
Gonna have to get your jollies
someplace else, pal.
BARIN
You prefer death? Slay him, or die.
Dozens of weapons surround them. Flash and Zarkov look around
at the ring of death.
117.
Barin raises his hand. As it starts to fall --
BLACK SCREEN. SUPER: "DON'T MISS THE NEXT EXCITING ADVENTURE --
"AGAINST A WORLD!"
FADE OUT.
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