This screenplay is copyrighted to its author. All rights reserved. This screenplay may not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of the author.
THE GREEN HORNET "Shattered Mask Part 1" Written by Michael Jennings Based on "Green Hornet" characters created by George W. Trendle and the "Green Hornet" television series created by William Dozier REVISION HISTORY: May 21, 2004 SECOND DRAFT July 18, 2004 THIRD DRAFT July 21, 2004 FINAL DRAFT PROLOGUE FADE IN: 1 EXT. FRONT STREET, ABANDONED SUBWAY STATION MORNING. Front Street at one time was the trendiest, upscale neighborhood in the city. Exotic shots and eateries lined both sides of Front Street for four city block. It's famous station, with it's art deco design, was built to usher in a new age in 1920's transportation, a symbol of what the future of the city, and of America could eventually become. Now, in 1967, Front Street symbolizes many aspects of the city and of the country. It has now become Located in one of the more desolate and run-down portions of the city, known more for a catering to the criminal element instead of the city's elite. The subway station has been locked down for years, noted by the dirt and decay around the building. The entranceway to the underground is locked by a rusted steel swinging gate with a equally rusted chain and padlock keeping the gate locked. THE SOUND OF APPROACHING FOOTSTEPS, A MAN'S SHADOW in the early morning sun, and A MAN'S HAND comes IN FRAME. The stranger opens the gate and walks down the access tunnel to the underground. CUT TO: 2. INT. FRONT STREET STATION STARIWAY The abandoned subway station, its walls covered with graffiti and newspapers - copies of the Daily Sentinel - are strewn on the dirty concrete ground, bristling in the wind. In the distance, the SOUND OF DISTANT SUBWAY TRAINS echo through the underground, like ghosts in a haunted house. PAN DOWN to focus on a man's legs walking down the stairs. The man's wearing cuffed black slacks and wearing expensive alligator shoes. Evidently, he's not from the neighborhood. CAMERA FOLLOWS man's steps. He stops. In the distance, the SOUND OF APPROACHING FOOTSTEPS. CUT TO: CLOSE UP TIGER JOHNSON From around a corner, gang leader TIGER JOHNSON appears. The man in his early 20's is wearing usual gang attire of the time, black shirt, leather jacket with strips of red, stylized to look like tiger stripes on the back of his jacket. Tough, no-nonsense, and extremely volatile. TIGER (Smiling) You're late. CUT TO: Man's legs. PAN UP to reveal AUGUSTUS CAIN. A distinguished man in his late 40's. Always well dressed, cool, calm. His gray-white hair slicked back, weathered, sailor-like face, with a thin wired mustache. His suits are perfectly tailored, obviously has a great deal of personal wealth, style and sophistication. Secured in the lapel on his jacket is a rare sight - a black rose bud. CAIN I apologize, Mr. Johnson. I haven't awoke this early since my army days. I trust you'll forgive me for the delay. CUT TO: CLOSE UP TIGER JOHNSON A cigarette dangles out of his mouth, indifferent to Cain's apology. TIGER Skip it, pops! I can care less when ya left the old fogies home! You got da guns? CUT TO: CLOSE UP AUGUSTUS CAIN, SAME ANGLE AS BEFORE CAIN Ah, youth! Such impatience! It CAN be a FATAL character flaw, Mr. Johnson. CUT TO: TIGER JOHNSON, SAME ANGLE HAS BEFORE TIGER So can messing with da Cats! From out of the shadows behind Tiger, members of the TIGERCATS GANG appears in the form of THUG 1, THUG 2, and THUG 3. They surround their leader. CUT TO: Augustus Cain, un-nerved by the presence of the backup muscle. CAIN Mr. Johnson, let me explain two things to you. One When I make a deal, I deliver. Two I'm not easily intimidated. CUT TO: TIGER AND GANG FROM BEHIND Suddenly, Thug 1, Thug 2, and Thug 3 all drop to the floor as a silver staff slices through the darkness with a METALLIC SWISHING sound, followed by a METALLIC CLANG as the staff knocks the three gang members unconscious, quickly and efficiently. Tiger turns, shocked to see his people taken out so easily. He reaches into his jacket for his gun... CUT TO: TIGER CLOSE UP Only to have the sharp end of the silver staff pointed right under his chin. A closer look at the tip reveals the staff is capped with a sharpened diamond point! CUT TO: THE ONE CLOSE UP IN THE SHADOWS Still in the shadows, all we initially see of the man known only as THE ONE are the outline of a bald, Caucasian head, blue two-piece Mao suit, and red-tinted circular "granny" glasses over his eyes. The red tint of the lenses seem to glow in the only light source that cuts through the shadows. CUT TO: TIGER SAME ANGLE AS BEFORE CAIN (Off-camera) I think Mr. Johnson has understood my point. You may go. The One lowers the point of the staff. CUT TO: THE ONE SAME ANGLE AS BEFORE. The mystery man nods, steps back, and blends into the darkness behind him. CUT TO: WIDE ANGLE OF CAIN AND TIGER. Cain reaches inside his suit jacket and pulls out a silver cigarette case. He pulls out a cigarette, puts it into his mouth. He walks over to Tiger and extends the case to him. Shaken, Tiger removes a cigarette. Cain lights it, then his. CAIN Now, before we were interrupted, you were inquiring about the merchandise? Tiger nods, almost afraid to say anything. CAIN I understand you have something of a DEAD-line to make this evening, Mr. Johnson. Let's discuss payment, shall we? CUT TO: 3. EXT. RIVER SIDE DOCKS DUSK Fishing and merchant boats travel along the waterway while assorted SAILOR-TYPES and VARANTS stumble about the wooden boardwalk along the waterway. CUT TO: 4. INT. DOCKS OVERHEAD SHOT. Shipping cartons and forklifts are being occupied by MEMBERS OF THE PIRANAHS STREET GANG. Their leader ENRIQUE VASQUEZ paces the floor expectantly. In his late 20's, he is very Latino in look and mannerisms. He wears blue jeans, black boots, and a Mexican-styled poncho, along with beads and other accoutrements from the era. His most visible addition to his ensemble a 12 inch Bowie hunting knife strapped to his belt. Unlike his counterpart with the Tigercats, Vasquez does have some educational background, shows both street-smarts and intelligence. CUT TO: WIDE SHOT VASQUEZ Arms crossed behind his back, he continually watches the clock on wall. CUT TO: CLOSE UP WALL CLOCK. The time reads 5:54PM. CUT TO: VASQUEZ SAME ANGLE AS BEFORE. VASQUEZ (To Gang) Almost time, bros. The Gang grunts in approval. CUT TO: PULL BACK SHOT of Vasquez and his gang. Cain STEPS into frame. CAIN The time is now, Mr. Vasquez. CUT TO: VASQUEZ CLOSE UP VASQUEZ Evening, s-sir! G-good to see you again! CUT TO: LONG SHOT OF CAIN ENTERING WAREHOUSE. Cain is dressed in the same outfit as before. He's all alone. CAIN Good evening, Mr. Vasquez. I see you've taken our talk about manners to heart since our first meeting. I approve of the change. CUT TO: CLOSE UP VASQUEZ. Vasquez eyes look up into the rafters. He gives the impression of seeing someone. CUT TO: 5. INT. WAREHOUSE RAFTERS. Along a wooden plank walkway, CLOSE UP OF STEEL RAILING WITH VASQUEZ,GANG, AND CAIN IN VIEW FROM BELOW. IN FRAME, The One's right hand grips the metal railing. Still wearing the blue suit, his middle finger has a gold ring in the shape of a serpent around it. 6. INT. WAREHOUSE CUT TO: VASQUEZ SAME ANGLE AS BEFORE. Vasquez sees The One. His eyes dart away quickly. VASQUEZ T-thank you, sir. About our order? CUT TO: LONG SHOT of Cain as he walks towards the Piranha gang. CAIN I'm happy to report that we've processed your payment, along with another business transaction from this morning, a few minutes ago. Our business is now complete. Good evening to you, gentlemen. Cain turns on his heel and heads for the exit. CUT TO: CLOSE UP VASQUEZ Vasquez starts to get an angry look on his face while his men start to grumble. Vasquez, again, looks up at the rafters at The One, looks back at Cain, and calms himself down. VASQUEZ Pardon me for asking, sir, but where's OUR STUFF? CUT TO: WIDE ANGLE VASQUEZ AND GANG Vasquez awaits his answer. His men still sit on the crates and boxes in the warehouse. CAIN (Off-camera) You're sitting on them! Vasquez turns and orders his men, in Spanish, to get off the crates. One of his men quickly jumps off. Another hands Vasquez a crowbar. CUT TO: CLOSE UP VASQUEZ, FROM "CRATES" POV Vasquez struggles to open the crate, putting pressure on the wood top. After a few seconds, the create opens with an audible POPPING OF WOOD AND NAILS. Vasquez reached down into the crate. CUT TO: WIDE SHOT OF VASQUEZ AND GANG. Vasquez has a M-18 military machine gun in his hands. He stares at it lovingly and takes a sniff in the air. VASQUEZ (To Gang) I love that fresh, new M-18 smell. Bros, we're goin' Tiger huntin' tonight! The Piranhas gang starts to cheer as they jump down and start to open the crates. CUT TO: CAIN CLOSE UP, REVERSE ANGLE. As he walks out of the warehouse, a slight smile grows on the face of Augustus Cain, obviously happy with his sales for the day. FADE OUT: END OF PROLOGUE RUN OPENING CREDITS Narrator (Off-camera) "Another challenge for the Green Hornet, his aide Kato, and their rolling arsenal the Black Beauty! On police record a wanted criminal, the Green Hornet is really Britt Reid, owner/publisher of the Daily Sentinel, his dual identity known only to his secretary and to the District Attorney. And now, to protect the rights and lives of decent citizens, RIDES THE GREEN HORNET!" ACT ONE FADE IN: 1 EXT. BRITT REID'S APARTMENT NIGHT. Stock footage of Britt Reid's apartment at night. CUT TO: 2. INT. KATO'S TRAINING ROOM / DOJO A large workout studio room, padded floor, with assorted weights and workout benches, nunchucks, sais, and other martial arts weapons hang on the walls waiting to be used, along with posters written in Chinese that signify Gung Fu movements and techniques. The room also includes a heavy punching bag and a life-size practice dummy, well worn and beat up severely. The trademark of the room all four walls are lined with mirrors! CLOSE UP KATO His eyes intense, not a bead of sweat on his face, cool, calm, and centered. KATO (Smiling) All right, Green Hornet! Prepare to die! CUT TO: CLOSE UP BRITT His eyes intense, sweat dripping from his face, hair messed and battered. BRITT (Panting) T-think so, huh? CUT TO: CLOSE UP KATO Kato's mouth curls in a wide, confident grin. CUT TO: CLOSE UP BRITT Britt's mouth curls in a disgusted frown. PULL BACK TO REVEAL BRITT REID wearing a gray sweat suit with padded shoes and gloves used for karate training. His chest heaves, breathing heavily. The top of his sweat shirt is drenched in sweat. He let's out a karate yell and charges Kato. He raises a leg aimed at Kato's head. CUT TO: CLOSE UP KATO PULL BACK TO REVEAL KATO dressed in a one piece, tight black workout suit, wearing the same gloves and padded shoes as Britt. FROM STAGE RIGHT Britt's padded shoe is aimed at Kato's head. Quicker than the eye can see, Kato intercepts Britt's leg, twists it in one motion, lifting Britt off his feet, over Kato's back, and on to the padded floor with a LOUD SLAM of body hitting padding. CUT TO: CLOSE UP BRITT REID laying prone. Shocked, stunned, and sore. KATO BRITT'S POV Kato folds his arms and shakes his head. KATO What was that? CUT TO: BRITT REID SAME ANGLE AS BEFORE BRITT A flying sidekick. CUT TO: KATO SAME ANGLE AS BEFORE KATO I know what you were trying to do but what were you doing? Kato reaches down and... CUT TO: KATO AND BRITT WIDE ANGLE REVEAL Britt takes Kato's hand and Kato lifts him up. Britt grabs his back, massaging away the pain. KATO What you were doing was getting angry. Remember what I told you last week emotional content NOT anger! BRITT "Emotional content" right! Got it! CUT TO: KATO WALKING AWAY FROM BRITT, KATO FOREGROUND BRITT BACKGROUND KATO I've been teaching you that move for two months and you still haven't gotten it right! CUT TO: CLOSE UP - KATO FROM BEHIND, Kato reaches for two bamboo staffs that rest on hooks imbedded into the mirrored wall. He holds them in both hands. BRITT (OFF-CAMERA) Maybe I need a new teacher? Kato turns towards Britt, gesturing at Britt with the staff for emphasis. KATO Maybe YOU need to stop going to The Pony Room every night! Kato throws a staff in Britt's direction. CUT TO: IN FRAME - BRITT as he grabs the staff in mid-air using both his hands. BRITT (Smiling) A friend of mine once told me "Man cannot live on crime-fighting alone!" CUT TO: KATO SAME ANGLE AS BEFORE Kato whirls and twirls the staff around in his hands, over his head,over his back, finally standing in a "ready" position, right hand holding the top with his left gripping the bottom. KATO A friend of mine once told me "The female form weakens the mind and slows the body." CUT TO: PULL BACK KATO AND BRITT IN FRAME Both combatants charge at each other, bamboo staffs connecting with a LOUD CRACK! CUT TO: BRITT CLOSE UP BRITT (Grinning) Whatever wise-man told you that wouldn't be a friend of mine! CUT TO: PULL BACK KATO AND BRITT IN FRAME Both parry and dodge at each other, FOUR LOUD CRACKS of bamboo as they spar with one another. KATO (Admonishing) He would find you reckless and undisciplined, believe me! Kato flips twice and throws two parries at Britt. CUT TO: BRITT IN FRAME Britt turns and says... BRITT Wish all my employees had such kind words... CRACK! CRACK! Britt blocks Kato's parries flawlessly. A smile comes to the young publisher's face as he says... BRITT (Cont) about my abilities, Kato! CUT TO: KATO IN FRAME with a surprised, and somewhat pleased look on his face. Kato says... KATO At least you learned SOMETHING I taught you! Kato's eyes narrow as he starts to circle Britt's position. His hands tighten around the staff as he looks for an opening for attack. CUT TO: OPPOSITE ANGLE - CAMERA FOLLOWS BRITT'S MOTIONS. Britt takes a defensive posture and starts to circle away from Kato. BRITT Don't try to change the subject! You disapprove of my social life? CUT TO: KATO - OPPOSITE ANGLE KATO I didn't say that. Just a life I wouldn't lead. CUT TO: BRITT OPPOSITE ANGLE BRITT I see. Britt takes three swings THREE sounds of WOOSH! Kato ducks them without effort. A frown comes to Britt's face as he thinks about his next move and Kato's potential retaliation. After a few seconds, a sly grin replaces the frown as he says... BRITT As I recall, it's been some time since you've had a date with - what did your "friend" call it? - the "female form"? CUT TO: KATO AND BRITT - WIDE ANGLE Kato takes three quick, hard parries. THREE more CRACKS! Britt stumbles back from the force of the attack. Obviously, Britt's struck a nerve! BRITT (Smiling) Ah! So, that's it! CUT TO: KATO CLOSE UP KATO What? CUT TO: BRITT CLOSE UP BRITT (Taunting) Nothing. (Pauses) Of course, there was that one girl you told me about once, back in Hong Kong. Mai Lin, right? Wonder what she's up to these days? CUT TO: KATO CLOSE UP his eyes narrow, cat like! He let's out a loud karate scream and charges at Britt. CUT TO: BRITT AND KATO WIDE ANGLE Kato lunges at Britt. Britt spins and turns, catching Kato's legs with the staff. Britt lifts up, tripping Kato and sending him to the mat onto his back. CUT TO: KATO - CLOSE UP, SAME ANGLE HAS BRITT'S Kato breaths heavy, closes his eyes in contemplation. CUT TO: BRITT KATO'S POV Britt looks down at his valet and partner in crime-fighting, striking a triumphant pose. BRITT (Smiling) You were saying something about "emotional content"? CUT TO: KATO SAME ANGLE AS BEFORE KATO (Panting) W-who? Me? CUT TO: BRITT IN FRAME From OFF-CAMERA, a telephone RINGS. Britt turns to grab a towel from one of the workbenches. CUT TO: KATO WIDE ANGLE, ALLIGNING HIS BACK ON THE BOTTOM OF THE FRAME. Britt walks by and drops the towel on Kato's chest with a FLOP. BRITT (OFF-CAMERA) Relax! I'll get it. CUT TO: 3. INT. BRITT'S STUDY. Britt walks around the corner and towards the beige phone on his desk. He removes the gloves, picks up the receiver and put it to his ear. BRITT (To Phone) Hello? (Pauses) Yes, Miss Case? Kato slowly walks into the study, his mind preoccupied. The towel is wrapped around his neck. He holds it by the ends as he enters the study. BRITT (Cont.) WHAT? How long ago? Britt takes the receiver away from his ear and turns to Kato. BRITT (Cont.) Kato, put the TV on to the Sentinel News broadcast feed. Quick! Kato moves over to the TV in the far corner of the study. The TV comes alive with an audible CLICK of the "on" button. CUT TO: BRITT AND KATO REVERSE ANGLE Kato backs away from the set and rests against Britt's desk, arms folded. Britt walks behind the desk and puts the receiver to his ear. CUT TO: CLOSE UP OF TV SET OVERHEAD SHOT OF STREET RIOT AT NIGHT. NEWS ANNOUNCER (V.O.) And, in a hail of bullets and explosions, two rival gangs spread their rumble onto the city streets. CUT TO: BRITT AND KATO SAME ANGLE AS BEFORE Britt and Kato look at each other with concern. NEWS ANNOUNCER (V.O., Cont.) The two gangs, known as The Tigercats and The Piranhas, began their rumble several hours ago. Once the police arrived, they turned and ran, but not before some gang members opened fire on nearby shops and businesses! While property damage is extensive, there is no report on police or civilian casualties at this time... BRITT Shut it off, Kato. Kato frowns and walks over to shut the set off. Britt puts the phone back to his ear. BRITT (To Phone) Miss Case, tell the night desk to get photographers down to the scene. Then call Axford. Tell him to get down there, fast. Thanks! Britt hangs up the phone. He walks around the desk and stands next to Kato. BRITT (To Kato) You know anything about those gangs, Kato? KATO Street thugs, mostly runaways. Word has it that the Tigercats leader Johnson - used to run protection for Dan Carley last year. BRITT And Carley's in prison after we smashed his racket six months ago. KATO Could he be behind this? BRITT His conviction is pending appeal so, either Carley's running the show from prison...or Johnson has a new boss. The beige phone rings again. Kato turns to answer it. He picks up the receiver and places it to his ear. KATO (Into Phone) Mr. Reid's residence. Yes hold please. Kato holds the phone out to Britt. KATO (To Britt) It's Mr. Scanlon. Britt takes the receiver from Kato. He turns and sits in his office chair. He flicks the switch on the speakerphone on the desk, then puts the receiver down. BRITT (Into Speakerphone) Having an uneventful night, Frank? CUT TO: 4. INT. DISTRICT ATTORNEY SCANLON'S OFFICE IN FRAME - DISTRICT ATTORNEY FRANK SCANLON as he sits behind his desk, papers and teletype reports cover the top. One of the teletypes is in his hand, ready to read it to Britt. SCANLON (To Phone) Anything BUT, Britt! I take it you watch your own news network? CUT TO: 5. INT. BRITT'S STUDY SAME ANGLE AS BEFORE BRITT (To Speakerphone) Every once in a while. How bad is it? CUT TO: 6. INT. DISTRICT ATTORNEY SCANLON'S OFFICE SCANLON (To Phone) Very! Casualty reports just came in from the officers at the scene. Six gang members four civilians killed. CUT TO: 7. INT. BRITT'S STUDY SAME ANGLE AS BEFORE Britt shakes his head. At his side, Kato squeezes his fists in anger. SCANLON (V.O.) A whole city block destroyed. Shops and markets burned up. All this and NO arrests. The only gang members we found are now on their way to the morgue. BRITT (To Speakerphone) So you don't have anything to go on? SCANLON (V.O.) Not necessarily. You might find this of interest, though. CUT TO: 8. INT. DISTRICT ATTORNEY SCANLON'S OFFICE SCANLON (To Phone) We're not releasing this to the press so don't think you're getting an exclusive for tomorrow's edition of the Daily Sentinel. Forensics is still going over the scene but we did manage to find one of the weapons used an M-18 machine gun, military issue. BRITT (V.O.) War surplus? SCANLON (To Phone) No. It's fresh off the assembly line, Britt. Serial numbers are filed down but the department's weapons expert said that it's the latest military issue. Couldn't have been made more than a few months ago. CUT TO: 9. INT. BRITT'S STUDY SCANLON (V.O.) Wherever these kids got the weapons, they sure didn't get it out of the back of a pickup truck unless it had U.S. Army license plates! BRITT (To Kato) At least that answers the question about how they caused so much destruction. KATO (To Britt) But we still don't know HOW they got the guns? CUT TO: 10. INT. DISTRICT ATTORNEY SCANLON'S OFFICE SCANLON (To Phone) I already spoke to my contacts at the Department of Defense and the FBI and they know nothing about a missing weapons shipment. I called the local Army base but they were surprisingly tight-lipped on the subject. BRITT (V.O.) That IS surprising! Why wouldn't the Army want to answer your questions? SCANLON (To Phone) I thought the same thing. I have a call in with the commander of the base, a Colonel Parker, but he hasn't returned my call. In the mean time, I figured I'd check with you see if you've picked up a...BUZZ from the streets. CUT TO: 11. INT. BRITT'S STUDY Britt smiles slightly at Frank's bad pun. BRITT (To Speakerphone) Not yet, Frank. But I'll see what we can do. By the way, do the police know the whereabouts of the Piranhas or the Tigercats now? CUT TO: 12. INT. DISTRICT ATTORNEY SCANLON'S OFFICE SCANLON (To Phone) The Piranhas are regular nomads! Never in the same place twice. The Tigercats were last seen loitering the old Front Street subway station. CUT TO: 13. INT. BRITT'S STUDY SCANLON (V.O.) Patrol cars have already been there. No sign of them. BRITT (To Speakerphone) Thanks, Frank! I'll let you know what we find out. SCANLON (V.O.) I'll be in touch. Oh! And I wouldn't recommend taking the Black Beauty out for a drive tonight. We have all available men combing the streets looking for the gangs now and they're not in a good mood. I don't have to tell you what would happen if they were to run into the Green Hornet, do I? BRITT (To Speakerphone) I'll keep it in mind, Frank. Thanks! Britt shuts off the speakerphone and hangs up the receiver. He gets up from behind the desk and looks out into the foyer, silently thinking about his next move. Kato walks over and stands behind his employer. KATO What do we do? BRITT Scanlon's right. There's too much heat on the streets for the Green Hornet to join the search. (Pause) You said before that this Johnson used to run protection for Dan Carley, right? KATO Yeah. Why? BRITT If I remember right, one of Carley's boys who ran protection down near Front Street just got paroled last month. Maybe he can shed some light on where Johnson may be hiding. KATO You going to use "the Hive"? BRITT Now's a good time to test it out. CUT TO: Britt walked back towards his desk, sitting down in the chair. He swiveled around and reached out to one of the books in his bookcase, pulled it down on it's hinge, and with a CLICK... CUT TO: CLOSE UP - BOOKCASE as a section of the bookcase rose up into the ceiling, revealing a hidden alcove. From the back of the alcove, a large TV screen moved forward. From the bottom, a computer keyboard rose up and locked into place. Between the keyboard and the TV is a four-by-eight rectangular box. In its center, a horizontal slot, large enough to slide a credit card through sideways. On top of the slot is three tiny light bulbs, about a inch apart from one another. The left most light it lit in the color red. CUT TO: CLOSE UP - BRITT Britt reaches for his wallet on his desk. He opens it and pulls out a plastic computer punch card no bigger than one of his credit cards. Of course, the card is green in color. CUT TO: CLOSE UP - BRITT's HAND Britt inserts the card into the slot. The card retracts into the mechanism. The lights above the slot go, left to right, from red to yellow to green. A FEW COMPUTERIZED HUMS AND WHIRS after the light goes green. CUT TO: CLOSE UP - TV MONITOR At the sound of the LAST COMPUTERIZED HUM, the TV screen comes to life as THE SYMBOL OF THE GREEN HORNET appears on the TV screen. CUT TO: IN FRAME - BRITT AND KATO Britt places his hands on the keyboard as Kato moves behind Britt, looking over his shoulder at the TV screen. BRITT We've spend the last few months programming this new computer data-base with all known criminal activity, location of known felons, and crossreferenced with our own case logs. Britt starts typing. The KEYBOARD KEYS make a CLICKING sound as Britt's fingers move. BRITT (Cont.) So, let's see when we add Carley's name... Britt begins to type on the keyboard, THE SOUND OF PRESSED KEYS as his hands move. BRITT (Cont.) with known associates operating near Front Street...what the Hive comes back with. CUT TO: MONITOR SCREEN OF THE HIVE. The Hive computer HUMS and WHIRS again, a electronic BLEEP, and the screen changes, green on black writing displays the following: NAME: CHUCK BENDER ADDRESS: 1472 FIRST STREET OFFENSE: EXTORTION, ON PAROLE CURRENT WHEREABOUTS: LUCKY'S BAR, 1731 25TH STREET CUT TO: BRITT AND KATO SAME ANGLE AS BEFORE. Britt and Kato smile at the results. Britt looks up at Kato. BRITT Kato, get the Black Beauty ready to roll! SCENE TRANSITION 14. EXT. LUCKY'S BAR A rundown hole in the wall bar in a rundown neighborhood. The pink neon sign blinks "LUCKY'S" on and off. A patron stumbles into the entrance as THE BLACK BEAUTY pulls up across the street from the bar. 15. EXT. BLACK BEAUTY The Green Hornet and Kato in their familiar disguises and positions in the Black Beauty, Kato behind the wheel, the Hornet in the back. Kato leans back to talk to the Hornet. GREEN HORNET (sarcastic) Nice place Bender has here. KATO I can't WAIT to see his customers! GREEN HORNET Probably went to the same "school of hard knocks" as Bender. Better play this one by the book, Kato. KATO Check! GREEN HORNET Let's go! Kato and the Green Hornet exit the Black Beauty. CUT TO: 16. INT. LUCKY'S BAR Like the outside, the inside is seedy and dirty. Only a few people are in the place, some slurring their words to one another, other passed out at tables or the bar. From out of the back room, CHUCK BENDER walks out with a case of whiskey and places it on the bar. Bender, in his mid20's but looks like he's in his late 30's, has seen his youth pass him by. Once athletic, his body fat now outweighs his muscle, but he's still tough in a fight. A TIN BELL makes a SOFT CLANG as the front door opens. CUT TO: IN FRAME - GREEN HORNET CAMERA TURNS to focus on the Green Hornet, holding the collapsed Hornet Sting weapon in his left hand. The Hornet walks towards Bender, looking around the room at Bender's clientele. GREEN HORNET Hello, Bender. See your taste in friends has improved since you left the state pen. CUT TO: CLOSE UP BENDER Bender's eyes go wide slightly as he takes a step back. BENDER T-the Green Hornet! You-you get out of here! You're scaring my customers! CUT TO: IN FRAME - BENDER AND GREEN HORNET. The Green Hornet reaches the bar and casually leans up against it as if he was like any other bar patron. GREEN HORNET Oh, I think these people are too busy with Mr. Jack Daniels and Mr. Johnnie Walker to waste their time with us, Bender. We need to talk. Scared, Bender starts to back away from the Hornet. His hand reaches back behind him, looking to grasp onto the door handle for the store room. BENDER I ain't got nothin' to say to you! Suddenly, Bender's back run into something. He quickly turns to see Kato between him and the store room door. Kato smiles, grips his shoulder hard and "escorts" him back towards the Hornet. CUT TO: CLOSE UP GREEN HORNET GREEN HORNET Now that I've got your attention, I understand that you used to work for "Big Dan" Carley some time ago. CLOSE UP BENDER Kato stands behind Bender, hand still clasped on his shoulder. BENDER Yeah, for two years, right before I got picked up by the fuzz. CUT TO: CLOSE UP GREEN HORNET GREEN HORNET And that you used to run protection with a kid named Tiger Johnson. CUT TO: CLOSE UP BENDER Bender has a disgusted look on his face. BENDER Johnson! Bender spits on the floor behind his bar. BENDER (Cont.) That punk's the reason I got sent upstate! CUT TO: CLOSE UP GREEN HORNET GREEN HORNET Then I won't have to ask twice. Where can I find him? CUT TO: CLOSE UP BENDER Bender looks back at the Hornet with a defiant look on his face. BENDER Why should I tell you? GREEN HORNET (Off-Camera) Let's just say it's your...civic duty! He and his playmates have something I want. CUT TO: CLOSE UP of DRUNK 1 and DRUNK 2 at a nearby table. Both dressed as long shoremen with three days of growth on their cheeks, they're usual rough-and-tough customers you'd expect in a place like Lucky's. Drunk 1 is stirred awake by Bender's and the Hornet's conversation. BENDER (Soft V.O.) After what he n his boys did tonight I'm not surprised. Why don't you guys try da subway station down on Front Street. GREEN HORNET (Soft V.O.) Front Street's hotter than those buildings he and his men blew up downtown! Drunk 1 looks at the Hornet, then back at his half-empty shot glass, then back at the Hornet. He then elbows Drunk 2 awake. Drunk 2 groans and stirs into consciousness. DRUNK 2 W-what? What ya doin'? DRUNK 1 Look! Drunk 1 points towards... CUT TO: WIDE SHOT OF HORNET, BENDER, AND KATO as they continue their conversation. CUT TO: IN FRAME - DRUNK 1 AND 2 TABLE. Drunk 2 starts to focus his eyes on what his drinking partner is looking at. DRUNK 1 (Cont.) Either da whiskey's getting' ta me or that's da Green Hornet! DRUNK 2 (sounding indifferent) "Da Green Hornet". Bah! Big deal! Drunk 2 takes a careful sip at the drink in front of him, then eyes Kato. DRUNK 2 (Cont.) Who's da short guy in da mask behind Bender? DRUNK 1 Don't know. Nobody knows is name. All I know is ya don't wanna mess with im! He's pretty tough! DRUNK 2 Ah! He's nothin'! I could take im! CUT TO: IN FRAME - SHOT of HORNET, BENDER, and KATO. The Green Hornet leans in, face to face with Bender, an annoyed and impatient look on his face. GREEN HORNET Enough games, Bender! Where is he? BENDER I'm tellin' ya! I don't know and I don't care where da rat is! CUT TO: CLOSE UP GREEN HORNET The Hornet nods his head slowly and has a "okay, that's the way you want it?" look on his face. He jerks his head in Kato's direction. CUT TO: KATO and BENDER. Kato grabs Bender's shoulder forcefully and pulls him out of the back of the bar. ZOOM OUT as the Hornet extends the Hornet's Sting, transfers it into his right hand, pulls out the handle from the Sting's inner casing. CUT TO: IN FRAME GREEN HORNET as the Hornet points the weapon at the bottles lined up behind the bar. GREEN HORNET Hope you have plenty of inventory, Bender! The Hornet presses the trigger. A HIGH-PITCHED WHINE as the sonic weapon the Hornet Sting activates! The bottles behind the bar start to shake, GLASS RATTLES, then bottles break with a GREAT CRASH AND EXPLOSION OF GLASS. The liquor inside starts to drip down the shelves and onto the floor behind the bar. CUT TO: IN FRAME - BENDER AND KATO. Bender with a horrified look on his face. He tries to run towards the Hornet to stop him but Kato grabs Bender by both arms, holding him tightly in place. BENDER NO! My BAR!!! CUT TO: GREEN HORNET SAME ANGLE AS BEFORE GREEN HORNET Now, are you going to tell me where he is or do I have to ask one of your customers for a match? CUT TO: BENDER AND KATO SAME ANGLE AS BEFORE BENDER All right! I don't know fer sure but he's got a chick that lives off of South Street n Central at least, he used ta when we ran together. Name's Jeannie. Jeannie Brand. CUT TO: WIDE ANGLE OF HORNET, KATO, and BENDER. CAMERA FOLLOWS Kato as he exits from behind the bar, joining the Hornet at his side. They pass the table where Drunk 1 and Drunk 2 are sitting. Drunk 2 gets up quickly and puts his hand on Kato's chest. CUT TO: REVERSE ANGLE KATO and DRUNK 2 IN FRAME Drunk 2 towers over Kato. DRUNK 2 I hear ya pretty tough, shorty! KATO You don't want to find out. DRUNK 2 I told me friend here I could knock ya out! KATO (smirking) What are you going to do? BREATHE on ME? Drunk 2's face becomes enraged. He raises his arm back to strike Kato. DRUNK 2 Why YOU LITTLE !!! Kato grabs his arm, extends and twists it. Drunk 2's face in pain. With a loud "Hai!", Kato kicks Drunk 2 in the stomach with his foot, bowling him over, then Kato brings his knee up into Drunk 2's chin then sending him flying back into the table with a lightning quick backhand. The table CRASHES as Drunk 1 quickly gets up, shot glass in hand. CUT TO: CLOSE UP KATO as he curls his fingers at Drunk 1, inviting him to fight him. CUT TO: CLOSE UP - DRUNK 1 as he raising his hands in "surrender", nervously shaking. DRUNK 1 I-I told im not ta mess with ya! I swear! CUT TO: GREEN HORNET and KATO IN FRAME The Hornet looks at Kato's handiwork, then around at the rest of the bar's patrons. Most do not even move at the sounds of wood breaking and glasses shattering, oblivious to the world around them. GREEN HORNET (To Bender) Sorry about the additional damage, Bender! Put it on my tab. (Pause) I'll be BACK to pay up...if I find out you LIED to me! The pair made their way towards the exit and out the front door. CUT TO: CLOSE UP BENDER Nervous, sweaty, and shaken, he rubs his hand through his hair. FADE OUT. END OF ACT ONE. ACT TWO FADE IN. 1. EXT. APARTMENTS AT THE CORNER OF SOUTH STREET AND CENTRAL ESTABLISHING SHOT UPWARD ANGLE on cross street sign that reads "South St" and "Central Ave". PAN DOWN as the Black Beauty pulls up across the street. PAN UP AND ACROSS UPPER LEFT to window. Tiger Johnson pulls back the window curtain. 2. INT. JEANNIE BRAND'S APARTMENT Tiger Johnson looks out the window, pauses, and pulls the curtain back s he hears the SOUND OF DISTANT POLICE SIRENS. He turns to look at JEANNIE BRAND, lounging invitingly on the couch, smoking a cigarette. Jeannie is in her late teens going on thirty! Tight white Capri pants, tight white halter top showing an impressive figure, her long blond hair in a pony tail, her face made up with too much makeup, like a little girl pretending to be a grown-up by looking like one. JEANNIE (To Johnson) Baby! Relax! The cops won't find you here. You're safe! CUT TO: JOHNSON IN FRAME walking towards Jeannie. He reaches into his shirt pocket for another cigarette. JOHNSON Famous last words, kitten! I got every clown with a badge lookin' for me and da boys. Johnson sits down next to Jeannie. CAMERA PANS DOWN JOHNSON AND JEANNIE IN FRAME. Jeannie slowly cozies up to him, putting her arm around his shoulder. JEANNIE Don't worry, baby! After tonight, "Da Man's" gotta have some nerve to mess with ya. They wouldn't dare mess with my BIG, STRONG TIGER! They kiss passionately as the LOUD, SONIC HUM of the Hornet's Sting fills the room. CUT TO: CLOSE UP DOOR LOCK as it stars to melt and catch on fire. CUT TO: DOORWAY IN FRAME The lock EXPLODES, the door FLIES OPEN as the Green Hornet and Kato enter the room in a cloud of smoke. CUT TO: SIDE ANGLE JOHNSON AND JEANNIE IN FRAME Johnson and Jeannie both get up and turn towards the door quickly, mouths agape. Jeannie lets out a slight scream, points at the Hornet and says JEANNIE (To Johnson) Leslie! It's the Green Hornet! CUT TO: DOORWAY IN FRAME SAME AS BEFORE Kato and the Hornet look at each other slightly as Jeannie reveals Tiger's real name. Kato looks at Johnson and says the expected... KATO (inquisitively) Leslie? CUT TO: CLOSE UP JEANNIE AND JOHNSON Jeannie has her arms wrapped around Johnson's in fear. Johnson looks at them sheepishly and admits JOHNSON Would you take orders from a gang leader named "Leslie"? Least I'm not some square callin' myself "The Green Hornet"! CUT TO: WIDE SHOT of HORNET, KATO, JOHNSON, and JEANNIE as the Hornet approaches the two. He gestures with the business end of the Hornet Sting. GREEN HORNET DON'T get SMART, Johnson! I'm here to complement you on your work tonight. I'm impressed...and I don't impress easily. CUT TO: CLOSE UP JOHNSON as a slight smile spreads across his face. JOHNSON You-you mean that? CUT TO: CLOSE UP GREEN HORNET GREEN HORNET Yes. It took a lot of nerve to take out the opposition like that. (Pause) In fact, I could use someone like you and your men. Big opportunity and BIG PAY! CUT TO: JEANNINE AND JOHNSON IN FRAME Johnson starts to push Jeannie off his arm. She let's out a girlish "yelp" as she's pushed aside. Johnson's now beaming! JOHNSON You liked it, huh? CAMERA FOLLOWS JOHNSON until he stands in front of the Hornet and Kato. JOHNSON (Cont.) You should've been there, man! We had everythin'! Colt revolvers, double-action rifles, flame-throwers... GREEN HORNET And M-18 machine guns. Johnson smile starts to face away at the Hornet's words sink in. JOHNSON What machine guns? We didn't have any M-18's! CUT TO: CLOSE UP GREEN HORNET GREEN HORNET If you didn't have them, then the Piranhas did. CUT TO: CLOSE UP JOHNSON A stunned and surprised look on the gang leader's face has he realizes what the Hornet is implying. JOHNSON Is that is that what they hit us back with? CUT TO: CLOSE UP GREEN HORNET The Hornet nods. His eyes slide over to Kato. GREEN HORNET That's right, Johnson. And from the same source you used. The Hornet and Kato both wait to see Johnson's reaction to the Hornet's "baited" words. CUT TO: HORNET, KATO and JOHNSON IN FRAME Johnson turns his back and walks away, stunned at the betrayal. JOHNSON Nah, that can't be! He said... GREEN HORNET Who said? CUT TO: CLOSE UP JOHNSON JOHNSON Nobody. Nobody said nothin'! CUT TO: HORNET, KATO, and JOHNSON IN FRAME The Hornet takes a step up towards Johnson and gets right in Johnson's face. GREEN HORNET Don't give me that! This man sold you weapons then turned around and sold the same weapons to your rivals! And now you're protecting him? Johnson looks down like a child being scolded by his father. JOHNSON Said he'd send HIM to KILL me if I told anyone... The Green Hornet grabs Johnson and pulls him towards him. Jeannie rushes to help but Kato shoots her a look, telling her to back down. CUT TO: CLOSE UP HORNET and JOHNSON GREEN HORNET Three of your men are dead and all you're doing is worrying about what's going to happen TO YOU? I thought I was dealing with a BRAVE man, not some COWARD more concerned with his own skin than getting revenge! CUT TO: HORNET, KATO, and JOHNSON IN FRAME The Hornet releases Johnson and he stumbles back CUT TO: CLOSE UP JEANNIE JEANNIE Ya don't have ta take that from this creep, Tiger! Show em how tough ya are! CUT TO: HORNET, KATO, and JOHNSON IN FRAME SAME ANGLE AS BEFORE Johnson turns to Jeannine and says... JOHNSON SHUT UP, will YA! Tryin' ta think Johnson rubs his hands through his hair, trying to sort everything out. GREEN HORNET Who's your connection, Johnson? Johnson exhales sharply and gives into the Hornet. JOHNSON I don't know is name. I don't know where he is...just one of my boys got is name from this guy n then we did business. CUT TO: CLOSE UP GREEN HORNET GREEN HORNET Where's your "boy" now? CUT TO: CLOSE UP JOHNSON a look of regret...and sincere sadness on his face. JOHNSON On a slab with Bennie n Slade. He was da first one ta get it. CUT TO: IN FRAME JEANNIE makes her way to the telephone on the stand. PAN DOWN to see the phone and a black rose! She reaches inside the draw and pulls out a revolver. PAN UP as she points the weapon at the three men. JEANNIE Enough squealin', BABY! CUT TO: HORNET, KATO, and JOHNSON IN FRAME Johnson turns with a shocked look on his face. JOHNSON Kitten? What're doin'? CUT TO: CLOSE UP JEANNIE SAME ANGLE AS BEFORE JEANNIE (giggling) Shuttin' ya up for good, LESLIE! Boss-man thought you'd crack! Jeannie raises the gun towards Johnson. CUT TO: CLOSE UP JOHNSON who starts to sweat, nervously. CUT TO: CLOSE UP KATO Faster than the eye can see, Kato extends his hand out toward Jeannie. A HIGH- PITCHED WHIZ sound at the green and yellow striped Hornet dart hits Jeannie in the hand, she YELPS in pain! The gun hits the floor. CUT TO: IN FRAME HORNET, KATO, and JOHNSON Johnson reaches into his jacket for his gun. JOHNSON (To Jeannie) Why you CUT TO: IN FRAME GREEN HORNET as he reaches inside his overcoat pocket and pulls out his Gas Gun. He aims it at Johnson and GREEN MIST shoots out of the gun with an audible HISS! CUT TO: CLOSE UP JOHNSON his face engulfed in green gas. He struggles for air and then collapses. CUT TO: IN FRAME KATO and JEANNIE Kato picks up the gun, unloads it, then takes the dart out of Jeannie's hand. He shakes his head disapprovingly, then forces her to sit down on the couch. PAN UP as the Hornet picks up the phone and hands it to Jeannie. PAN DOWN as Jeannie takes it from him. GREEN HORNET (Off-camera) I believe you have a phone call to make. CUT TO: SCENE TRANSITION 3. EXT. CITY HARBOR THE YACHT S.S. PATRIOT RISING ESTABLISHING SHOT A 50-foot luxury yacht anchored off the city's pier. Two shadowy figures cautiously make their approach. CUT TO: IN FRAME - PATROIT RISING'S DECK as THREE GUARDS walk up and down the deck of the boat. The guards, to the casual observer, appear unarmed. Under their left armpits, they have a slight bulge of holstered gun under their jackets. FROM BEHIND the Green Hornet and Kato jump over the side boards and then move in opposite directions. 4. INT. PATROIT RISING RECEPTION ROOM Augustus Cain sits in a leather chair in a posh common area on board the Patriot Rising. Cool and calm as the first time we saw him, he sips a brandy in a large snifter glass in his right hand. From outside, he hears GRUNTS and THE SOUND OF PUNCHES BEING THROWN AND LANDED against flesh. He remains motionless,listening to the sounds as if it was classical music. A SOUND OF A SLIDING DOOR BEING OPEN, he turns his head to see...CAMERA FOLLOWS HIS ' GAZE as he sees the Green Hornet and Kato standing in the entranceway. GREEN HORNET I thought this was supposed to be a friendly meeting, Mr. Cain? CUT TO: CLOSE UP OF CAIN. CAIN Forgive me but I was understandably curious if you and your man lived up to your reputations. The newspapers often play up stories and events in order to sell newspapers. Cain takes a sip of brandy as he stares at the Hornet. CAIN (Cont.) I'm sure YOU above all else could understand the POWER of the press. That newspaper, the Daily Sentinel, and it's owner what's his name? CUT TO: CLOSE UP GREEN HORNET He's slightly shaken by Cain's last statement, implying he may know who the Green Hornet is. GREEN HORNET (questioning) You mean Britt Reid? What's he got to do with this? CUT TO: CLOSE UP CAIN CAIN Oh, nothing! Forget I mentioned it, Mr. Hornet. Do I call you "Mr. Hornet?" or do I just call you "Green"? CUT TO: CLOSE UP GREEN HORNET The Hornet remains motionless and speechless. He doesn't answer Cain's "question". CUT TO: CLOSE UP CAIN CAIN I guess not. (Pause) Forgive me for being presumptuous but I'm new in town. Of course, I've heard of YOU but I REALLY didn't think you EXISTED. But here you are! (Pause) So, I understand from my lovely associate that you wish to talk business? CUT TO: IN FRAME GREEN HORNET and KATO The Hornet walks towards Cain. Kato follows, a few steps behind, looking around the room for any possible sneak-attacks. GREEN HORNET Talk business? Yes! But not with you! CAMERA ZOOMS OUT and PANS RIGHT to bring Cain into frame. CAIN I don't understand. GREEN HORNET I don't deal with middle-men, Cain! I've done my homework on you. (Pause) Wealthy patron of the arts, entrepreneur, war hero... CAIN Don't forget "sophisticate"! GREEN HORNET AND black marketer! CAIN All LIES spread by my competitors! I deal with arts and rare antiquities. A modest business, really. The Hornet looks around the room at the posh and expensive furnishings. GREEN HORNET If not lucrative. CAIN It pays the bills. KATO So does selling military weapons to a bunch of kids! CUT TO: CLOSE UP CAIN as he looks at Kato with indifference CAIN I didn't think he talked! CUT TO: IN FRAME GREEN HORNET and KATO Kato moves forward towards Cain, ready to sidekick him into the next century, but the Hornet puts his hand on his chest, holding him back. GREEN HORNET (To Kato) Not now! CUT TO: WIDE ANGLE KATO, HORNET, and CAIN Cain walks towards one of the windows tables in the room. A vase containing a bouquet of black roses on top of the table. He takes one out and holds it in his right hand. CAIN Whatever Miss Brand told you, I assure you she's mistaken. GREEN HORNET Really? CAIN Oh, yes! She's just a casual acquaintance, really. She...WELCOMED me to your fair city a few weeks ago! Cain holds the black rose up to his face for inspection. CAIN (Cont.) A jilted lover seeking repayment for a broken heart, most likely! GREEN HORNET You flatter yourself, Cain. You forget, I've done my homework on you. Word has it you've been involved in dirtydealing since the end of the war. You're a fringe player who's never been able to move up in the underworld, unable to catch up to the more talented players in town. CUT TO: CLOSE UP GREEN HORNET GREEN HORNET (Cont.) And you're never going to move up here! (Pause) This is my town, Cain! You want to do business in my town, you deal with the Green Hornet. Think of it as one of your exclusive country clubs back home. You want to join, you pay...starting with giving me the name of your weapons supplier. CUT TO: CLOSE UP CAIN Cain considers the Hornet's words, CAIN And suppose just suppose, I know what you're talking about. What's to prevent you from - what's the term you chaps use? "muscling in" on my operation? CUT TO: CLOSE UP GREEN HORNET GREEN HORNET You play it straight with me, pay my price, you stay in business. You get protection against the police and get rich in the process. If you don't...I make sure you stay OUT of business! It's that simple! CUT TO: WIDE ANGLE HORNET, KATO, and CAIN CAIN Yes, I see. Well, if I was involved in that terrible tragedy from this evening, it would take some time to set up a meeting with my "supplier". The Hornet smiles and approves of Cain's suggestion. GREEN HORNET You have until noon and you better have an answer, Cain! The Hornet and Kato turn and leave the way they came. CAMERA REVERSES ANGLE TO FOCUS ON CAIN. ZOOM IN on Cain as a stateroom door opens. The One comes out and stands behind Cain. As before, he wears the same blue Mao two piece suit, black shoes. In the light of the stateroom, we now see that his skin is a stark white, very faded. Slim in build, the only hair on his head is a dyed bright blond goatee around his chin, whiskers forming a point at the end. He still wears the red-lens "granny" glasses and carries the silver staff in his hand. The staff is slightly longer than a walking cane. The top of the handle is shaped like a cross. The ends of the cross extend down vertically, coming to a sharp point, like a eagle's talon. When the mystery assassin speaks, it is in a soft, raspy whisper. CAIN Impressive, aren't they? The One remains silent. CAIN What do you think? THE ONE The Green one fought well but is reckless and undisciplined in his movements. The one in black is skilled but is too disciplined. His skill can kill but he chooses not to. (Pauses) They can be dealt with. Cain smiles and turns to face the mystery man. CAIN Many have tried. In fact, the local authorities have tried for years. (Pause) He underestimates me and he overestimates his position...and that is a fatal flaw, my friend. Perhaps if the Green Hornet were running for his life, he'd been less concerned about other people's business. (Pause) Get our employer on the phone. The One moves past Cain. CUT TO: IN FRAME THE ONE as he turns and sits in a nearby chair, flipping the staff in his right hand, holding it regally, like a king sitting on a throne. THE ONE I am neither HIS chauffer nor YOUR lackey! IN FRAME CAIN He shrugs and walks to the ship to shore phone. CAIN Very well. Cain dials a number. CAIN (To Phone) This is Cain. YES, I KNOW never to call you at this time of night, sir. (Pauses) Yes, I spoke to him. It went as expected. (Pauses) Yes, I do have a idea in mind to rectify the situation but I do need to ask you a question, sir. Your new "Interceptor". By any chance, does it come in black? FADE OUT. END OF ACT TWO. ACT THREE FADE IN: 1. EXT. DAILY SENTINEL BUILDING ESTABLISHING SHOT Stock footage. CUT TO: 2. INT. BRITT REID'S OFFICE Britt sits at his desk as LENORE CASE walks into his office, pen and paper in hand. CASEY Mr. Reid, you wanted to work on your speech for the Commerce Association Dinner? Britt stares at the clock on the wall. It reads 11:55. BRITT Sorry, Miss Case. Come in. Lenore Case, Britt Reid's young, stylish, and beautiful secretary walks in front of Britt's desk and sits in a nearby chair, crossing her shapely legs. Casey is wearing the latest in "mod" fashions with her reddish-blond hair pulled back in a pony tail. Britt tries to hide his eyes from Casey as he casts a sideways glace as she sits down,admiring her form. CUT TO: CLOSE UP CASEY CASEY You seem distracted today. CLOSE UP BRITT Britt's eyes go wide slightly as he thinks that she saw him admiring her. He grins, sheepishly, as he says... BRITT In more ways than one. You might say that a deadline's going to be missed in another five minutes...and for once I'm not talking about Mike... A KNOCK AT THE DOOR FRAME as MIKE AXFORD, the former police officer and current crime reporter makes his way in to Britt's office. PAN OUT to put MIKE, BRITT, and CASEY IN FRAME. BRITT (Cont.) And speak of the devil... CASEY At least HE knocked this time! Britt smiles as Axford walks in front of Britt's desk and throws a teletype down in front of him. AXFORD It's happened again! CUT TO: CLOSE UP BRITT REID BRITT The mailman deliver your copy of Playboy to your sweet ol' Irish mother's house again? CUT TO: CLOSE UP MIKE AXFORD AXFORD No, no, and NO, Britt! It's isn't a time for jokes! Look at that! Axford points to the teletype he threw on Britt's desk. CUT TO: IN FRAME BRITT REID Britt picks up the teletype. AXFORD (Off-camera) They're trying to pull that same stunt, like the time we got that ad right after that lady doc got snatched by the Green Hornet a few months back! This was listed in the personal column this morning. Britt reads the teletype. BRITT "To Mr. Green. Supplier not available to talk personally. You'll see his answer at noon today. A.C." CUT TO: IN FRAME BRITT, CASEY, and AXFORD AXFORD It HAS to be another message for the Green Hornet! Britt looks up at Mike, thinking about the message's meaning. BRITT You might be right about that, Mike. CASEY But what does it mean "see his answer at noon today"? Britt pauses to think. Axford looks annoyed but bites his tongue. From his desk, Britt's phone RINGS. Casey gets up, moves around the next and stands next to Britt. Casey picks up the phone. CASEY Mr. Reid's office. (Pauses) I'm sorry? Who did you say was calling? Hello? (Pauses) Yes, one moment, please. Casey pauses, she shakes her head as she hands the phone to Britt. CASEY Someone wishing to speak to you. You may want to take this call. Britt takes the phone from Casey, sees the look on her face, and puts his hand over the receiver. BRITT What's wrong? CASEY He says he's the Green Hornet! Axford leans in closer to Britt's desk, excited and outraged at the same time. AXFORD The Hornet? Calling here? Of all the NERVE! Britt shoots a look at Mike to quiet him. He presses a button on the speakerphone. BRITT Hello? The voice on the phone talks in short, clipped tones. GREEN HORNET (V.O.) Britt Reid? Britt recognizes the voice as HIS! BRITT Yes. (Pauses) Who's this? GREEN HORNET This is the Green Hornet! This is my town! The police have never been able to catch me. Now I will make sure they will pay my price. Think of it as one of your exclusive country clubs, Reid. You want to join, you pay my price. BRITT What do you mean? Pay WHAT "price"? GREEN HORNET You will have my answer at noon. An audible CLICK and the line goes dead. Britt reaches for the receiver and quickly places it to his ear. BRITT Hello? HELLO? He slams the receiver down. AXFORD What's that devil up to now? BRITT I don't know, Mike. Whatever it is, we'll find out in... CUT TO: CLOSE UP WALL CLOCK The wall clock ready 11:59. The sweep hand inches closer to the top of the clock. BRITT (V.O.) Ten seconds. CUT TO: CLOSE UP BRITT Britt's bites his lower lip slightly in anticipation. CUT TO: CLOSE UP WALL CLOCK The sweep hand hits noon and moves past 12 10 seconds...20 seconds go by. CUT TO: IN FRAME BRITT, CASEY, and AXFORD Mike folds his arms and smirks while Casey and Britt look at one another with concern. After a few seconds, a cocky smile on Axford's face as he says... AXFORD Well! It looks like the Green Hornet's all bark and no... CUT TO: 3. INT. DAILY SENTINEL CITY ROOM From outside Britt's office, all of the office phones start ringing in unison. REPORTERS and SECRETARIES all rush to answer them. CUT TO: 4. INT. BRITT REID'S OFFICE IN FRAME - AXFORD, BRITT, AND CASEY Axford runs out of Britt's office and heads for his desk, picking up his phone. CAMERA FOLLOWS Casey and Britt as they follow Mike. Axford leans over his desk and quickly picks up the phone. Casey and Britt look at the chaos around the city room. AXFORD Sentinel. Axford. (Pauses) Sarge, slow down! He WHAT? Wait! I can't hear...Sarge? SARGE! The line goes dead. Axford slams the phone down in anger. AXFORD (Cont.) He's finally done it! He's insane! Britt moves next to Axford, grabbing his arm. BRITT Who, Mike? What's happened? Axford slowly turns to meet Britt's gaze, as if he was searching for the right words. AXFORD The Green Hornet! He just blew up police headquarters! CUT TO: CLOSE UP BRITT A look of shock on his face. BRITT What do you mean "blew up"? CUT TO: CLOSE UP AXFORD AXFORD Just that! That car of his...Sarge said he fired rockets into headquarters...and then the line went dead! CUT TO: IN FRAME BRITT, CASEY, and AXFORD The city room is still a buzz as Axford picks up the phone and starts dialing. Britt pulls Casey to the side. BRITT Get Scanlon on the private line. Hurry! CASEY Yes, Mr. Reid! Casey EXITS. Britt looks around the room, rage in his eyes. BRITT (Whispering) Cain! Britt turns and heads back to his office. CUT TO: 5. INT. BRITT REID'S OFFICE IN FRAME BRITT and CASEY Casey hands the phone to Britt. CASEY I have Mr. Scanlon on the phone, Mr. Reid. Britt takes the phone from Casey. BRITT Thanks, Miss Case. (To Phone) Frank? CUT TO: 6. INT. DISTRICT ATTORNEY SCANLON'S OFFICE Scanlon looks somewhat disheveled in appearance. SCANLON I hate to say it, Britt, but I was hoping you were out on the street instead of in your office. CUT TO: 7. INT. BRITT REID'S OFFICE BRITT Sorry to disappoint you, Frank. Any idea who's behind the bombing? SCANLON (V.O.) Well, if you believe the eyewitness reports, the perpetrators were driving a black armored car, the driver dressed in black and wearing a mask, the passenger wearing all green, right down to the fedora and mask, Britt! BRITT Cain really knows how to put on a show! CUT TO: 8. INT. DISTRICT ATTORNEY SCANLON'S OFFICE Scanlon removes his glasses, a surprised look on his face. SCANLON Who? BRITT (V.O.) It's a long story, Frank. Just trust me. Scanlon takes the phone in hand walks to a nearby window. SCANLON Maybe so but it's a mess, Britt. Whoever was driving that armored car did a bang-up job in crippling the police force. The question is...what...will... CUT TO: 9. INT. BRITT REID'S OFFICE Britt face shows a look of concern. BRITT Frank? What is it? SCANLON (V.O.) Oh my... BRITT FRANK? What's wrong? CUT TO: 10. INT. DISTRICT ATTORNEY SCANLON'S OFFICE IN FRAME SCANLON, FROM BEHIND CAMERA FOCUSES DOWN TO THE LEFT OVER SCANLON'S SHOULDER and centers on an approaching car the black "Interceptor" Cain asked his employer about on the Patriot Rising! CUT TO: 11. EXT. STREET OUTSIDE CITY HALL CLOSE UP INTERCEPTOR This war machine looks like a supped-up sports car only that it has wheels that are made for a 18-wheeler. Where the roof should be is a see through plastic dome, where the driver and passenger can be easily seen an IMPOSTER KATO and IMPOSTER GREEN HORNET! CUT TO: 12. INT. INTERCEPTOR, DRIVER'S VIEW CLOSE UP on imposter Kato's hand as he flips a series of switches. CUT TO: 13. EXT. INTERCEPTOR WEAPONS ARRAY With the button being pushed, twin machine guns rise from the hood while four missile ports fold out of the side of the vehicle, two on each side. CUT TO: 14. INT. INTERCEPTOR, DRIVER'S VIEW, SAME ANGLE AS BEFORE Imposter Kato pushes a red button... CUT TO: 15. EXT. INTERCEPTOR, REAR VIEW as twin rocket launchers activate and fire towards their target. The rockets EXPLODE with a mighty BOOM as they destroy the doors on city hall. CUT TO: 16. INT. DISTRICT ATTORNEY SCANLON'S OFFICE IN FRAME - SCANLON The room starts to shake as pieces of plaster snow down on Scanlon. He yells into the phone. SCANLON BRITT! If you can hear me, it's the fake Hornet, he's firing... The office billows with smoke as part of the ceiling collapses on Scanlon! CUT TO: 17. INT. BRITT REID'S OFFICE IN FRAME BRITT and CASEY Their eyes both go wide with fear as the phone line goes dead! BRITT Frank? FRANK! Britt picks up the phone and slams the phone down in the cradle. He turns back towards his office door. BRITT Casey! Call Kato! Tell him to meet me at the boat yard, at the Patriot Rising! Casey follows him to the door, stops him before he leaves. CASEY You're going as Britt Reid? BRITT The Hornet can't show his face in public right now without every cop going after him. CASEY But, if Cain finds out who you are... BRITT People are dying out there, Casey! Frank may already be dead! Even if Cain finds out I'm the real Green Hornet, he's going to pay for what he's done! Britt marches out of the office. Casey pauses, a look of concern on her face. She turns and reaches for the phone, following her boss' orders. CUT TO: SCENE TRANSITION 18. EXT. CITY SHIP YARDS Night is falling on the city. In the distance, the sound of fire engines racing through the city streets. IN FRAME, BRITT pulls his convertible coupe out of sight across the street CUT TO: CLOSE UP BRITT IN COUPE Britt puts on a pair of wide-lens sunglasses and put on a black fedora on his head. He's now wearing a plain, d ark grey overcoat, along With black gloves, his best to hide his identity. CUT TO: IN FRAME SHIP YARDS as KATO idles on his motorcycle. Like Britt, Kato wears the same dark sunglasses, wearing a black leather jacket, gloves and dark blue jeans and black motorcycle boots. Britt makes his way towards Kato. CUT TO: CLOSE UP BRITT and KATO KATO I got here ten minutes ago. Kato gestures behind him towards the boat slips. One of them is empty. Kato shuts off the bike, parks it, and gets off the seat. They both make their way down the dockway. CUT TO: IN FRAME THE EMPTY BOAT SLIP Where the Patriot Rising used to be. On the LEFT of the board walkway is a park bench with a SLEEPING TRAMP occupying the space. KATO (V.0.) I spoke to the dock master. He said the Patriot Rising shipped out of dock this morning. No destination was on file. CUT TO: IN FRAME BRITT and KATO CAMERA FOLLOWS BRITT as he angrily walks towards the empty slip. Kato walks behind him, looking around for any surprises. Britt looks at the empty slip, looking out into the water, the sun setting. BRITT On the way over, the radio said that the "Hornet" attacked the Federal building after city hall. Whomever's operating that war machine, he's taken out the city's government and law enforcement in one swoop! Kato shakes his head in disgust. KATO Not to mention setting us up in the process. (Pause) If Cain left this morning, then who do you suppose... Kato looks at the vagrant on the bench. With his pause, Britt looks at Kato, then at what he's looking at. CUT TO: IN FRAME VAGRANT The vagrant is lying on the side and wears a green hat, green jacket white Capri pants, and white high heeled shoes! In the vagrant's clenched right fist is a black rose! CUT TO: IN FRAME KATO and BRITT As they cautiously walk over to the "sleeping" vagrant. Britt looks over the person, then pulls the vagrants shoulder down, onto the vagrant's back and finds... CUT TO: CLOSE UP JEANNIE BRAND The green fedora falls off Jeannie Brand's head as lifeless eyes look back at Britt and Kato. CUT TO: CLOSE UP BRITT and KATO BRITT Jeannie Brand. Another loose end tied up! Britt angles his head and looks at the front of the green jacket. He reaches down. CUT TO: CLOSE UP of Britt's gloved hand as he reaches for a piece of paper pinned to the body. He opens the paper in his hands. It reads: "HORNET, YOU'RE NEXT!" Britt's hands start to shake as he crumples up the note in his fists. FADE OUT. END OF ACT THREE ACT FOUR FADE IN. 1. INT. BRITT REID'S STUDY IN FRAME KATO, BRITT, and CASEY. Britt and Kato still wear their temporary disguises sans glasses, standing in front of the TV. Casey sits in the far chair, nursing her cup of coffee in her hands watching the news report. TV NEWS ANCHOR (V.O.) Reports coming in...5 dead including Mayor Walter Scott, 20 wounded including Deputy Mayor Robert Bradley and District Attorney Frank Scanlon. A look of relief on Kato and Casey's faces at the news. Britt remains stone-faced as he continues to watch the report. TV NEWS ANCHOR (V.O.) This is an unprecedented attack by the Green Hornet, who until today has concerned himself in criminal...(Pause) CUT TO: TV SET NEWS ANCHOR The Daily Sentinel TV News anchor pauses and puts a hand to his ear. TV NEWS ANCHOR (V.O.) This just in! We've just received word of a third attack, moments ago, by the Green Hornet! CUT TO: CLOSE UP BRITT Face twisting with growing anger. BRITT WHAT! CUT TO: CLOSE UP - TV SET NEWS ANCHOR The Sentinel TV News anchor looks solemnly at the paper in his hands, then back up at the camera. His voice cracks with emotion when reporting the story to the viewers. TV NEWS ANCHOR And...this is truly tragic news. While attempting to destroy the World Market building, a four year old boy, who was walking out of a nearby newspaper shop, was killed by falling rubble. The police have withheld the child's name until the boy's family has been notified. CUT TO: IN FRAME BRITT, CASEY, and KATO Britt bangs his fist into the desk and walks around it. He sits in his chair, elbows resting on the desk surface. He puts his hands to his face, rubs his eyes, in shock of the news of another innocent life lost. Kato turns and looks at him. KATO We have to DO SOMETHING! Before Britt can answer, the Sentinel TV News Anchor's voice is heard in the background. TV NEWS ANCHOR (V.O.) Ladies and gentlemen, the governor will be making a statement shortly. We now go live to the capital for the governor's address. CUT TO: CLOSE UP - TV The TV cuts to a news conference, the GOVERNOR standing at a podium surrounded my military types and people in suits behind him. GOVERNOR (V.O.) I do not need to remind you of the heinous act committed today. With local government and police crippled by this attack, I use my powers, as governor, to declare a "state of emergency". With such an order, I'm requesting that the United States National Guard assume the role of policing the city's streets, protecting our city's citizens from the increasing criminal element. CUT TO: CLOSE UP BRITT REID GOVERNOR (Off-camera) With that in mind, I now introduce the commander of our guard, and the man appointed by me to handle civic and police activities until the deputy mayor and the surviving civic leaders are able to return to duty. Ladies and gentlemen, may I introduce Colonel Theodore Parker. CUT TO: CLOSE UP TV NEWS CONFERENCE COLONEL PARKER, a man in his later years, short, gruff, no nonsense, makes his way to the podium. He pauses to look over the crowd of reporters. Some of the men in suits stir into new positions behind Parker. COLONEL PARKER (V.O.) This is a sad day but rest assured this day will be remembered for the day this great city's criminal element will be brought to justice, starting with the man who brought so much death and destruction to all of us the last two days. (Pauses) Yes, I did say the last two', for we have evidence in our possession that the man responsible for today's attack was the mastermind behind yesterday's gang war that took the lives of (Pause) so many of our city's youth. The colonel takes a sip of water, almost composing himself. COLONEL PARKER (Cont.) That MAN is... CUT TO: CLOSE UP BRITT REID colonel PARKER (Off-camera) The Green Hornet! CUT TO: CLOSE UP TV NEWS CONFERNENCE COLONEL PARKER (Cont.) Therefore, as my first official act, we have a warrant for the apprehension of the Green Hornet! In short, war has been declared! We will find him, he will be brought to justice, and, if he resists capture, he will be dealt with accordingly. A murmur fills the conference room. Colonel Parker looks pleased with the reaction. He looks directly into the camera and says... COLONEL PARKER (Cont.) That's all! The colonel turns as REPORTERS try to ask follow up questions. Colonel Parker turns and shakes hands with the governor, other military officers, and men in suits. One man in a grey suit makes his way through the crowd towards the colonel. CUT TO: IN FRAME BRITT, KATO, and CASEY Britt's eyes start to narrow. He leads forward to get a better look at the TV screen. CUT TO: CLOSE UP TV NEWS CONFERENCE, ENTIRE PICTURE TUBE IN FRAME Colonel Parker turns and shakes the man's hand. That man is Augustus Cain! Cain leans in to whisper something in the colonel's ear. The colonel smiles. KATO (V.O.) CAIN! And the colonel? CUT TO: IN FRAME BRITT, KATO, and CASEY Casey continues to look at the TV while Kato looks at Britt, who continues to stare at the screen with eyes that look like they can burn a hole right through it. CAMERA PANS DOWN AND OVER, CLOSE UP on Britt. BRITT They WANT a WAR? They're going to GET ONE! Britt has the TV remote in his hand. He points it to the TV and with a CLICK, shuts the TV off. FADE TO BLACK ON CLICK. Screen text reads: "TO BE CONTINUED..." END OF ACT FOUR END OF PART ONE
Return to SimplyScripts.com