BATMAN
Script created with Final Draft by Final Draft, Inc.
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"BATMAN SAVIOUR"
by
Paul M. Wolford
Based on the Character Created by
Bob Kane
FADE IN:
EXT. SKY - NIGHT
Another blank and starless night. But there is light to
behold and it's shinning towards the sky. We TILT DOWN TO see
EXT. GOTHAM OIL & GAS REFINERY - CONTINUOUS
Huge. Imposing. And flat out ugly. Though just outside Gotham
City you could swear this refinery was in downtown Gotham.
INT. GOTHAM OIL & GAS REFINERY - HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
A gun shot rings out as a SECURITY GUARD gets shot in the
chest and collapse onto the floor.
HENCHMAN #1 (O.S.)
Joe we got the stuff!
Two HENCHMEN run out from inside the office. HENCHMAN #1
holds a briefcase. Slowly JOE CHILL, mid-thirties and just
plain evil, turns around holding a smoking gun.
CHILL
Good.
Joe shoots HENCHMAN #2 killing him on the spot. Henchman #1
stares on in shock. He stares a little too long as Joe shoots
him as well. Joe walks over and picks up the briefcase.
CUT TO:
INT. GOTHAM OIL & GAS REFINERY - STAIRS - NIGHT
Joe runs down a flight of stairs as fast as he can, always
looking over his shoulder to see if he's being followed.
CUT TO:
EXT. GOTHAM OIL & GAS REFINERY - MOMENTS LATER
Joe bursts through the front door. An OLD SECURITY GUARD
spots him and draws his gun.
OLD GUARD
Freeze Mister!
Joe shoots him and dashes to a car and smashes out the
window. Within seconds the hot wiring is complete.
Joe peels out and heads towards the front gate. Several more
GUARDS show up and take aim and fire at Joe but to no avail
as Joe crashes through the front gate.
I/E. COUNTRY ROAD - MOMENTS LATER
Joe speeds down a rural road. Suddenly a tire blows out.
CHILL
Damn it!
Another tire blows out, wait... SHOT OUT! Joe tries to gain
control but loses it and crashes the car into a ravine. With
briefcase in hand Joe struggles out of the car and heads
straight into the --
INT. WOODS - CONTINUOUS
Joe runs like a mad man through the woods, leaping over
fallen trees and ditches.
Soon Joe sees what looks like to be a clearing up ahead. He
runs past the trees only to find that he is in a clearing...
but it's surrounded by more trees.
A loud NOISE hovering overhead is heard. Joe looks around in
a panic. The sound gets louder and louder. Joe is completely
lost and has no idea where to go. A blinding LIGHT is cast
down upon him. Joe tries to look up into the light above him.
JOE'S P.O.V.
A silhouette of a giant BAT heads straight towards him.
Joe stares up in horror as The SHADOW OF A BAT gets larger.
Larger. LARGER.
Joe aims his gun up to the sky -CLING!- Joe grasps his hand
in pain as the gun is knocked out of his hands by a metal
object. A BATARANG.
Now completely covered by the shadow of the bat Joe foolishly
looks back up only to get KICKED in the mouth by a BLACK
BOOT.
Joe falls back onto the ground holding his mouth in pain and
mumbling swears. Chill gets to his knees. Finally he stands
to his feet and turns around only to see... the saviour of
Gotham. BATMAN: the Dark Knight.
Joe slowly builds what little courage he has then charges the
Batman. Batman side steps Joe to the right then -WHAM!- nails
him in the back of the neck with the palm of his hand. Joe
hits the ground.
INT. BATWING - MOMENTS LATER
Batman sits inside the cockpit of the BATWING setting the
controls.
EXT. WOODS - ARIEL SHOT - CONTINUOUS
ANGLE ON - THE BATWING'S REAR ENGINE, a beat then the
AFTERBURNERS kick on sending the Batwing off at an amazing
speed. As the Batwing flies away barley visible hanging by
the waist is a body. Joe.
EXT. GOTHAM POLICE HEADQUARTERS - ROOFTOP - NIGHT
COMMISSIONER JAMES GORDON is standing next to the BATSIGNAL.
Two others are standing next to him. Gordon's SPECIAL.
ASSISTANT HARVEY BULLOCK, a large and out of shape detective
who's seen one to many Gotham nights. Next to him is DECTIVE
RENEE MONTOYA, a beautiful Latino in her late twenties who's
the perfect partner in looks and skill.
BULLOCK
I don't trust'em, Commish.
GORDON
He gets the job done, Bullock.
Gordon looks over to his right and sees something heading
towards Gotham over the horizon. With a squint Gordon
recognizes it and smiles.
GORDON (CONT'D)
You think this one is awake,
Montoya?
The Batwing flies in over the Police Station then hovers
above the roof -WHOOM!- Joe is dropped unceremoniously onto
the roof in front of the three.
Joe starts to raise his head -WHAM!- the briefcase nails him
in the back of the head knocking him out cold.
MONTOYA
Nope.
The Batwing takes off like -- well, like a bat out of hell.
BULLOCK
I don't trust him, Commish.
GORDON
He gets the job done, Bullock.
INT. BATCAVE - MOMENTS LATER
The Batwing comes roaring into the BATCAVE and lands. God's
gift to butlers, ALFRED THADDEUS CRANE PENNYWORTH, is halfway
down the stairs. In his hands is a trey with a steaming tea
kettle.
Batman hops out of the Batwing and walks towards Alfred who
is now at the Batcomputer pouring a cup of tea for Batman.
ALFRED
Evening, Master Bruce. I made your
favorite. Lapsang souchong tea.
BATMAN
Thanks, Alfred.
Batman strolls to his chair and sits down and beings to
remove his gloves.
ALFRED
Did you have a rough night, sir?
BATMAN
No, it was pretty normal.
Batman begins to drink his tea and begins running some
programs on the Batcomputer.
BATMAN (CONT'D)
Know what I was thinking on the way
home, Alfred?
ALFRED
No, sir what?
BATMAN
We should get a dog.
ALFRED
A dog, sir?
BATMAN
Yeah, I kinda miss having the cat
since Dick took it with him to
Bludhaven. I've always wanted a
dog, you know - name him "Ace".
ALFRED
If I may be so bold, sir but bats,
cats and dogs at Wayne Manor? Tell
me sir what's next a giant T-Rex in
the Batcave.
BATMAN
Well, we got room for one.
Alfred turns to leave.
BATMAN (CONT'D)
Hey, Alfred.
ALFRED
Yes, sir?
BATMAN
Does this look stupid?
Alfred takes a step back and looks at Batman holding a cup of
tea and its soccer.
ALFRED
The Dark Knight drinking a cup of
smoked Chinese tea in the Batcave?
(sarcastically)
Why no, sir. Whatever gave you that
idea?
INT. GOTHAM POLICE HEADQUARTERS - GORDON'S OFFICE - DAY
MAYOR HAMILTON HILL, competent but misguided, sits in front
of Gordon's desk.
HILL
I don't want this city to rely on
the Batman for everything that goes
wrong Commissioner. The tax payers
pay for the Police to protect them
not some freak in a suit.
GORDON
Mr. Mayor, Batman doesn't handle
everything that goes wrong. We only
ask him for help when we need it.
It's great Psychological Warfare
against the crime in this city,
besides he's more then a freak in a
suit to this city.
HILL
That's right he's a vigilante.
GORDON
That vigilante saved this city from
the Joker.
HILL
I don't care what he --
GORDON
And if it wasn't for him Oswald
Cobblepot would be Mayor now, not
you.
HILL
(a beat)
Still, do you think this type of
thing could happen in Metropolis or
in Coast City without someone
complaining?
GORDON
Who's complaining? The citizens of
Gotham? If they have I haven't
heard them.
HILL
And what about our businesses, do
you think someone like Bruce Wayne
wants Batman protecting Wayne
Enterprises? He's worth over eight
hundred million dollars.
(beat)
Do you know how much of that comes
into the city and our charities?
Not to mention the amount of money
he gave the city to repair all the
damages that Batman caused while he
was dealing with the Joker and the
Circus Gang, Mr. Freeze and all the
others.
GORDON
I don't know I haven't spoken to
Mr. Wayne about Batman. But Maybe
you can take some notes for me at
your next cocktail party.
HILL
Look Gordon this is my first term
as mayor and I'm not going to be
over shadowed by a bat!
GORDON
Then you better get out of my
office and find someone who cares!
Hill gets up from his seat and grabs his coat off the hanger.
HILL
I'm watching you Gordon, you better
not slip up while I'm mayor.
Hill slams the door behind him as he leaves the room. Quickly
Montoya and Bullock enter the room.
MONTOYA
Man, what's got him so pissed off?
GORDON
Ahh, he was born with a silver
spoon in his ass instead of his
mouth.
BULLOCK
Was it about the Batman, Commish?
GORDON
Yeah.
BULLOCK
I don't trust 'em, Commish.
GORDON
Yes, Bullock you don't trust
Batman. We know.
BULLOCK
No, I was talking about the
Mayor...I don't trust the Bat
neither.
The phone on Gordon's desk rings Gordon quickly answers it.
GORDON
Gordon. What?
INT. APARTMENT #1 - LIVING ROOM - DAY
Bullock and Montoya enter into a slum apartment which has now
been turned into a crime scene flooded with COPS. Bullock
walks up to an OFFICER
BULLOCK
What do we have officer.
OFFICER #1
You better take a look at this. The
Officer leads them to the --
INT. APARTMENT #1 - KITCHEN - DAY
Before he enters the kitchen Officer #1 pauses.
BULLOCK
What is it?
OFFICER #1
Be careful. It's messy.
Behind the Officer we can make out the heads of four people
sitting down to a nice quite family dinner, MOM, DAD, SARAH
and LITTLE BILLY.
BULLOCK
(aghast)
Oh --
The Officer steps to the side and we see what Bullock does.
Four throats SLIT from ear to ear. The bodies tied to the
chairs to keep them from falling out.
Flies swarming the room as FORENSICS painstakingly work on
the bodies and swatting at the files.
FORENSICS #1
Can someone please do something
about these damn flies!
The Detectives start moving around the room. Montoya looks
about ready to puke. She leans over the kitchen sink turning
her back to everyone in the room.
MONTOYA
Nobody saw or heard anything?
OFFICER #1
Not a thing.
BULLOCK
Nothing?
OFFICER #1
Nothing.
MONTOYA
What about Forensics?
FORENSICS #2
So far we haven't found anything
Detectives. It will be awhile
before we can find out if they were
drugged before they were killed. So
far it doesn't look like it.
MONTOYA
They were murdered, not killed.
There's a difference.
BULLOCK
We'll check back with the
Department and have them check on
any nutcase that might have be
released. Come on, Montoya.
INT. BULLOCK'S CAR - MOMENTS LATER
As we ride down Gotham City a visibly upset Montoya rides
shotgun. Bullock notices. Obviously it's a first.
BULLOCK
What's wrong, Montoya?
MONTOYA
Son of a bitch murdered two kids!
BULLOCK
I know.
MONTOYA
How couldn't somebody hear
something? They had to. You just
doesn't walk in and murder four
people like that without somebody
seeing or hearing something. Those
apartments are overrun with people,
you can't just --
BULLOCK
Come on, Montoya. You've seen that
section of town before. Nobody in
that part of town cares about
anybody. Hell, nobody in this city
cares about anybody. The same thing
goes for the force, too. You, me,
and the Commish are an anomaly.
We're the only people who care
about anything in this stinkin'
city.
MONTOYA
Well, I kinda think Bruce Wayne
cares. I don't think it's an act.
BULLOCK
Wayne? Wayne? That pretty boy only
cares about how much money he has
in the bank and how fresh the
supermodel he has is under the
sheets. He stinks and what the hell
is this?!
Bullock slows down as a ROYALS ROYCE is double parked in
front of the PICTURE NEWS office building. Bullock leans out
the window. Montoya grabs his arm.
MONTOYA
Bullock.
BULLOCK
Hey! Hey move it!
MONTOYA
Bullock get in here. Bullock leans
on the horn.
BULLOCK
Come on get out the way you rich --
ANGLE ON - THE ROYALS, as we see Gotham and America's
showcase bachelor, BRUCE WAYNE, stepping out. He sees
Bullock.
BRUCE
(huge smile)
Oh, hello, Detective Bullock. I
didn't see you.
Bullock gives a fake smile and waves then leans back into the
car.
BULLOCK
(under his breath)
I hate that guy.
The Royals pulls away as Bruce heads towards the Picture
News' front door.
BRUCE
(under his breath)
I hate that guy.
INT. PICTURE NEWS - ENTRANCE - DAY
Bruce goes through the revolving doors and head straight
towards the front desk where a thirty something Female
RECEPTIONIST is reading a magazine without a care in the
world.
BRUCE
Hello, Miss. I'm --
The Reception gives a quick glace at Bruce then does a double
take. The magazine goes flying as the Receptionist hops to
her feet.
RECEPTIONIST
Bruce Wayne! Oh, my God, you are so
hot!
BRUCE
What?
RECEPTIONIST
(embarrassed)
I'm mean... hello, welcome to
Picture News... so sorry.
BRUCE
No, it's alright. I'm here for an
interview with Miss. Julia
Remarque.
RECEPTIONIST
Yeah, she's right upstairs on the
third floor.
BRUCE
Okay, thank you.
RECEPTIONIST
(HUGE smile)
You're welcome.
INT. PICTURE NEWS - THIRD FLOOR - DAY
Bruce exists the elevator and marches onto the third floor.
Immediately everyone stops what they're doing and stares at
Bruce. Bruce takes advantage of the situation.
BRUCE
Hi. Bruce Wayne. I'm looking for
Miss Remarque.
JULIA (O.S.)
Over here, Bruce!
Bruce looks over and sees JULIA REMARQUE, with her head
peeked out the door from a corner office and waving. Bruce
waves back. No eyes leave Bruce as they follow him through
the room.
INT. PICTURE NEWS - JULIA'S OFFICE - DAY
Julia holds the door open to her plush office.
BRUCE
Hello, Julia.
JULIA
Hello, Bruce. Go ahead and have a
seat I'm sure Talia doesn't mind.
BRUCE
Who?
TALIA (O.S.)
Talia.
A stunningly beautiful twenty five year old woman, at least
she looks it, TALIA al Ghul stands up from her chair stopping
Bruce dead in his tracks.
TALIA (CONT'D)
Talia al Ghul.
Talia extends her hand. Bruce stares then finally comes to.
BRUCE
(shaking hands)
Hi. Bruce Wayne.
TALIA
Yes, I know. It's hard for a woman
to come to Gotham City without
knowing who Bruce Wayne is.
BRUCE
Is that so?
TALIA
Yes.
BRUCE
And who is Bruce Wayne might I ask?
TALIA
Someone who isn't running short on
date lists but hopefully could add
one more sometime.
BRUCE
Anytime.
TALIA
I hate to be rude but I must go,
however, I'll will keep free date
in mind if you will.
BRUCE
Oh, it's in my mind all right.
Talia smiles and walks out and shakes hands with Julia.
TALIA
Goodbye, Julia.
JULIA
Bye, Talia.
Talia looks over her shoulder and gives one last smile and
WINK to Bruce before she leaves.
JULIA (CONT'D)
Nothing changes with you does it,
Bruce?
BRUCE
I'm a billionaire playboy. I'm
supposed to act this way. My public
demands it.
Bruce hops down on a couch. Julia closes the door and goes to
her desk.
JULIA
How's my dad doing?
BRUCE
Alfred? Oh, he's great.
JULIA
You know Bruce our interview wasn't
scheduled for another hour.
BRUCE
Yeah, well I was in the
neighborhood so I figured why not?
So what's the deal with Talia?
JULIA
I'm doing a piece on her. She's not
your type.
BRUCE
What makes you say that?
JULIA
She's an environmentalist.
BRUCE
(she's right)
Oh, one of those?
JULIA
Yes. And the Wane Foundation's
history hasn't always been very
environmentally friendly.
BRUCE
We are so. I was the one who
confronted Max Shrek about--
The phone RINGS. Julia gives Bruce the "hold that thought"
signal and answers it.
JULIA
Julia... Uh-huh... Really? Hold on
a moment.
Bruce plays around with the lamp shade next to the couch.
Julia grabs a pen and starts taking notes.
JULIA (CONT'D)
Okay. West Side? Bullock's in
charge?
That got Bruce's attention.
JULIA (CONT'D)
Okay, thanks.
BRUCE
What was that all about?
JULIA
Um... something just came up.
BRUCE
Really?
JULIA
Yeah, uh... look... could we do
this another time?
BRUCE
Sure, No problem.
Julia goes to open the door for Wayne. Bruce jumps up but
takes a quick look at her notes then heads towards the door
before Julia turns around.
JULIA
Sorry.
BRUCE
(smiles)
Don't worry about it. I'll catch
you later.
JULIA
Thanks.
They exchange kisses on the check and Bruce leaves.
INT. ZSASZ'S APARTMENT - LIVING ROOM - DAY
A dark empty apartment. The outside light is blocked out by
aluminum foil on the windows. A small light O.C. shines on a
MAGICIAN'S TOP HAT, JACKET, etc. which is lying on a chair.
ZSASZ (O.S.)
(whispers)
Mommy.
Small DROPS are heard going into a sink.
INT. ZSASZ'S APARTMENT - BATHROOM - DAY
Standing in front of the sink stands MR. ZSASZ, a tall and
well built blonde man in his thirty's. Small scars are spread
across his body. Four scars with one across the middle as if
he's keeping count on his body with a knife... he is.
ZSASZ
(whispers)
Daddy.
More drops are heard going into the sink.
ANGLE ON - THE SINK, as several drops of blood fall.
ZSASZ
(whispers)
Sarah.
We TILT up to see Zsasz cutting his forearm with a knife.
Next to the area he is cutting are three fresh cuts.
ZSASZ (CONT'D)
(whispers)
Little Billy.
INT. BATCAVE - NIGHT
Bruce sits in front of the Batcomputer watching Anchor SUMMER
GLEESON give a report.
SUMMMER
(filtered)
A grizzly crime was discovered on
the West End of Gotham City today.
An entire family was found
murdered. Two of the victims were
under the age of ten. Early reports
state that all four of the victims'
throats had been slit, though
Gotham City Police Commissioner
James Gordon has not validated that
report.
(beat)
The story was first broke to the
public by journalist Julia Remarque
from the Picture News. Bruce turns
off the feed and sits back in his
chair.
INT. GOTHAM POLICE HEADQUARTERS - GORDON'S OFFICE - NIGHT
Gordon is sitting alone at his desk on the phone.
GORDON
We can't solve a murder like this
in one day Mr. Mayor, it takes time
to... Well maybe if the city would
quit cutting back our department
funds we could hire more... I can't
give you the men if we can't..
That's the stupidest thing I've
ever heard...Yes, Mr. Mayor.
Gordon slams the phone down.
GORDON (CONT'D)
Damn!
BATMAN (O.S.)
Leads?
Gordon jumps. He swings around and sees Batman standing
inside the office next to the window.
GORDON
No... I'm afraid we don't have any
yet. I don't know how the news
media got the information they did
but what they reported was true.
The whole family was murdered. It
looks like professional work. You
wouldn't happen to have anything
would you, Batman?
BATMAN
No.
GORDON
You know, the new Mayor has been
riding me pretty hard about you. He
even asked me if I thought that you
did it. I told him that was the
stupidest thing I've ever heard.
BULLOCK (O.S.)
Hey, Commish!
Gordon's office door quickly opens up.
GORDON
Harvey!
BULLOCK
What? I'm just telling you I'm
heading out. Geese, it's not like
you're talking to anyone in here.
Gordon turns around to see Batman no where in sight.
BULLOCK (CONT'D)
Commish?
GORDON
Yeah, alright Bullock. Take it
easy.
Bullock shuts the door.
GORDON (CONT'D)
Batman?
Gordon gets up and looks out the window only to see a busy
Gotham street. No Batman.
EXT. GOTHAM STREETS - WEST SIDE - NIGHT
A YOUNG GIRL runs down the sidewalk. In her hands is a TEDDY
BEAR that she is clinging onto. She hurries past an alley.
Quickly Zsasz, dressed as a MAGICIAN in coat and tie, steps
out in front of her. The Young Girl jumps back in fright.
ZSASZ
Oh, I'm sorry little one. Did I
frighten you?
She shakes her head: Yes.
ZSASZ (CONT'D)
Why are you running? Are you scared
of someone?
She shakes her head: No.
ZSASZ (CONT'D)
Are you late getting home?
A nod of: Yes.
ZSASZ (CONT'D)
Your parents are going to be mad,
huh? Well, maybe I should take you
home, hmm? And then you can give
these flowers to your mother and
say that's why you where late. You
were getting her some flowers.
LITTLE GIRL
(child pronunciation)
Flowers?
ZSASZ
Yes, the flowers that your friend
is holding.
The Girl looks down and in the arms of the Teddy Bear is a
bouquet of flowers. The Girl smiles.
LITTLE GIRL
Wow.
ZSASZ
So now tell me... where does mommy
and daddy live?
EXT. LITTLE GIRL'S HOUSE - NIGHT
Police cars surround the house. Reporters run around the
scene in a frenzy eating up the ratings they know they're
receiving.
INT. LITTLE GIRL'S HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - LATER
Once again Police have swarmed the house searching for clues
inch by inch.
Sitting in a lazy boy is the FATHER with his throat slit
still holding the remote control in hand. His head arranged
to look like he's still watching the TV that's still
flickering.
Sitting on the end of the couch is the MOTHER. Throat slit
and still holding her "GOTHAM MONTHLY" magazine.
In the corner of the room is a large white sheet covering up
a BABY'S CRIB.
On the floor next to it is small white sheet. Next to it is
the little girl's Teddy Bear, still holding the flowers.
In the center of the room Gordon is consulting with Montoya
and Bullock.
GORDON
I'm sorry for calling you two in
but I had to.
BULLOCK
Don't worry about it, Commish. Me
and Montoya will find the guy.
Right, Montoya?
(no answer)
Montoya?
Bullock turns to see Montoya staring in space.
GORDON
Montoya what's wrong?
Everyone behind Montoya looks at her then stare to the
direction she is looking.
BULLOCK
What is going --
Bullock and Gordon turn around to see Batman walking into the
living room. All the Police are silent and stare at Batman.
This is the first real Batman sighting for most in the room
and we can tell. Batman doesn't wast any time walking towards
Gordon.
GORDON
Batman? What are you doing here?
BULLOCK
I got a better question. Who the
hell let you past the tape, Bats?
GORDON
Settle down, Bullock. Batman we
haven't found anything new here but
we're trying our best.
Batman looks over at the baby's crib and marches towards it.
BULLOCK
Hey, what are you doing?
GORDON
Quiet, Bullock. He's helping.
BULLOCK
Helping, huh?
Batman slowly leans down and picks up the Teddy Bear and
stares at it. A look of sadness overcomes the Batman that
soon to turns into anger.
BULLOCK (CONT'D)
I tell what he's doing, he's using
this as an alibi.
(pulling his gun on
Batman)
This son of a bitch did it!
Batman looks up at Bullock.
GORDON
Bullock put it down!
BULLOCK
He did it!
GORDON
No, he didn't!
BULLOCK
Yeah, how do you know that? Nobody
knows anything about this freak.
What's the story, Bats, huh? Did
your mommy and daddy neglect you as
a child so you grow up wearing a
rubber suit and murdering babies?!
Batman storms towards Bullock. Bullock jumps back and points
the gun at Batman's face. Batman holds up one of the flowers.
BATMAN
I'm taking this.
Batman shoves the Teddy Bear into Bullocks chest then walks
towards the back of the house.
BULLOCK
Hey, that's evidence you can't take
that!
GORDON
Bullock!
BULLOCK
By God I'm going to shoot'em.
Bullock runs off after Batman.
GORDON
Bullock get back here!
INT. LITTLE GIRL'S HOUSE - BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
Bullock runs into the bedroom and switches the light on only
to see an open window with the curtains blowing in the wind.
INT. BATCAVE - NIGHT
Batman slides the flower under a large microscope then walks
over to his chair at the Batcomputer and types a few keys.
The flower comes up on the large monitor.
Batman magnifies the image; small unintelligible lettering
can be seen. Batman magnifies several times until we can read
the lettering:
GOTHAM MAGIC SHOP
CUT TO:
INT. GOTHAM MAGIC SHOP - NIGHT
The STORE OWNER cowers back into a corner.
OWNER
(broken English)
What do you want man?! I don't
break no laws. I just working late!
The flower is thrown on him.
OWNER (CONT'D)
What this? I don't know this. I
don't know nothin'.
BATMAN
Names.
OWNER
But --
BATMAN
Now!
INT. GOTHAM POLICE HEADQUARTERS - GORDON'S OFFICE - NIGHT
Gordon walks in and gets ready to take off his jacket. Wait
something's on the desk. Gordon walks over and sees a list of
names with a BATMAN LOGO on the bottom of the page.
CUT TO:
MONTAGE:
Gordon, Bullock, Montoya and many other of Gotham's finest
are going door to door, house to house, day and night
questing people. All races. All ages.
INT. ZSASZ'S APARTMENT - LIVING ROOM - DAY
BAM! The front door is smashed open with Gotham's Special
Unit spilling in. On the floor sits Mr. Zsasz in his
Magician's outfit. Zsasz looks up at the Police not
surprised.
ZSASZ P.O.V. as the butt of a rifle flies towards us -- WHAM!
CUT TO:
INT. TELEVISION STUDIO - DAY
Summer Gleason is giving a special report. Over her shoulder
footage of Zsasz being put into a Police car and taken into
Police Headquarters is being played on a LOOP.
SUMMMER
Gotham City Police have arrested a
man in connection to the series of
murders that have been plaguing
Gotham for the past few days. The
man's name has not yet been
released but what we do know is
that the Batman played a pivotal
role in helping the capture of this
man.
INT. WAYNETECH - BRUCE'S OFFICE - DAY
Summer's report is playing on a large plasma screen on the
wall. Bruce lays asleep on his couch cat napping.
SUMMMER
(filtered)
At this hour the man is still being
interrogated by Gotham City Police.
INT. GOTHAM POLICE HEADQUARTERS - INTERROGATION ROOM - DAY
Zsasz sits at a table twiddling his thumbs. He's not alone.
Montoya, Gordon and Bullock all sit at the table waiting for
their turn with him.
BULLOCK
(slamming his fist on the
table)
Why did you do it you sick
bastard?!
Zsasz looks up at Bullock with one hell of a BLACK EYE.
ZSASZ
Who me? Do you think I did it?
BULLOCK
I ask the questions here not
psychos like you!
ZSASZ
And even though I'm just a magician
I know that I don't have to speak
to you unless I have a lawyer.
MONTOYA
Ahh, I knew he'd pull this crap.
ZSASZ
On the contrary I'm not. Instead I
won't speak until the Batman is
present.
MONTOYA
What?
ZSASZ
Batman. You can call him right? Oh,
that's right, he doesn't come out
until night since he can't see the
BATSIGNAL during the day. Maybe you
should invest in a big red phone
that way you can call him during
the day, Jim.
GORDON
Commissioner Gordon.
ZSASZ
Oh, sorry.
(beat)
So are you going to get the bat or
not? If you have to wait until
night I suggest you take me to a
holding cell. You can't leave me
cuffed in here until nightfall can
you? Then again if fat boy can pass
the physical then you could
probably get away with anything.
BULLOCK
You son of a --
Zsasz laughs his ass off as Gordon and Montoya hold Bullock
back.
GORDON
(to Zsasz)
You want Batman? He'll be here.
Zsasz smiles.
EXT. GOTHAM POLICE HEADQUARTERS - NIGHT
The BATSIGNAL shines brightly overtop of the Station.
INT. GOTHAM POLICE HEADQUARTERS - INTERROGATION ROOM - NIGHT
Zsasz sits at the table. Pleased with the outcome. Montoya,
Gordon and Bullock once again are in the room. Most
importantly standing in the darkest corner of the room is the
Batman.
ZSASZ
Well, now we can talk.
GORDON
Alright. What is your name?
ZSASZ
Mr. Zsasz.
GORDON
Your first name?
ZSASZ
Mr. Zsasz.
GORDON
Fine. Did you murder those people?
ZSASZ
Let's ask the bat. Did I do it?
BATMAN
Roll up his sleeves.
BULLOCK
What?
GORDON
Do it, Bullock.
Bullock walks over to Zsasz and rolls up his left sleeve and
sees the OLD scars. Bullock looks up at Zsasz with a
questioned look. Bullock rolls up the other sleeve. Eight
fresh scares.
BULLOCK
Well, well, well.
MONTOYA
What is it?
BULLOCK
Eight slashes on his forearm.
ZSASZ
What does that mean?
BULLOCK
Eight victims, eight slashes.
ZSASZ
Maybe I have a volatile cat.
BULLOCK
What you're gonna have is my foot
stuck up your --
GORDON
Harvey!
ZSASZ
Is Batman always this quiet?
GORDON
Where were you two nights ago?
ZSASZ
Home. Praying. Do you pray Batman?
Does the saviour of Gotham pray to
the Saviour of the world? Are your
sins still bottled up inside Batman
or did you lose them on a cross? I
know my sins are cleansed.
No answer.
ZSASZ (CONT'D)
I guess not, huh, Batman? You know
as well as I do that no God exist
and that no Son died on a cross.
Why would someone who so, "loved
the world" allow a man to slit the
neck of a sleeping baby, which I am
accused of. Tell me how could a God
of love allow a child to watch
their parents die in front of them?
To be taken from them. To never see
them again at that tender age. If
He's all powerful He could stop it
couldn't He? But He doesn't does
He? No, he let's it happen over and
over again and nothing ever
happens. Is that it Batman? Have
you taken on the form of vengeance
because there is no God of one so
you think you must become it? Do
you actually think you can do the
work of a god like Superman can?
BATMAN
You have no idea what I can do.
A knock on the door breaks the tension. Montoya answers it
and doesn't like who's behind it.
MONTOYA
Oh, great.
DELIA (O.S.)
You can't do this.
Montoya steps back as DELIA MAXWELL, a beautiful and ticked
off attorney, enters the room.
DELIA (CONT'D)
You can not hold this man and
interrogate him without proper
representation.
GORDON
Delia --
DELIA
That's Miss. Maxwell, Commissioner.
GORDON
Miss. Maxwell this man has waved
his right to an attorney.
DELIA
This man could also be mentally
challenged and does not understand
how serious the matter is.
BULLOCK
Look lady, this guy is a nut job
and he --
DELIA
So, you admit that he isn't of
sound mind and yet you continue to
interrogate him for hours on end?
And don't you know that --
(spotting Batman)
Ahh!
Montoya, Bullock and Gordon hide their smiles.
GORDON
Oh, I forgot to mention that Batman
was here Miss. Maxwell.
DELIA
I can see that. What is that man
doing here? He has no authority to
be here.
GORDON
Batman can --
DELIA
Batman can not. He is the true
villain here. He's a vigilante. The
last time I checked those types
were illegal.
(beat)
Gordon neither you nor the DA can
keep this man here. I have already
spoken to Mayor Hill about this and
a medical professional is outside
the door and we'll see if this man
goes to Arkham or stays here.
MONTOYA
You're a real pain in the ass you
know that?
DELIA
I'm defending the Constitution
Detective Montoya. Maybe you should
start defending it as well?
BATMAN
Arkham isn't the answer.
DELIA
You don't believe in rehabilitating
people for the outside world?
BATMAN
I do.
DELIA
Then what's the problem.
BATMAN
Arkham will let him out.
DELIA
If he goes and that's a big "if",
then when he is released he would
be fully rehabilitated.
BATMAN
Doubtful.
DELIA
Whither or not you believe that
Jeremiah Arkham is capable of
running his Uncle's Asylum does not
change that fact that you have no
say in this Batman and neither do
you Gordon.
ZSASZ
Ma'am?
DELIA
Yes?
ZSASZ
I would appreciate it very much so
if you would be my attorney.
CUT TO:
INT. TELEVISION STUDIO - DAY
Summer is giving a report. Clips of Zsasz being taken to
ARKHAM ASYLUM is playing behind her.
SUMMMER
The man who is now being held
responsible for the string of
murders in Gotham city was moved to
Arkham Asylum today. The only name
that the man has given to
authorities is Mr. Zsasz. No birth
records from his finger prints have
been found yet but the Gotham
Police are working on it and have
sent all available information to
INTERPOL. But by far the most
bizarre fact to come out is the
markings on Mr. Zsasz's body. After
examination by Arkham Doctors they
have found over one hundred and
fifty cuts on Mr. Zsasz's body. The
Police at this time are lead to
believe that with eight fresh cuts
on his person, the same number of
murder victims in Gotham, that
Zsasz marks each of his kills by
cutting a slash mark on his body.
Of course we will have more news on
this as it develops.
(beat)
In other news Gotham's favorite son
Bruce Wayne will be meeting with
environmentalist Talia Head today.
When asked what the meeting would
be about Chief Executive Officer of
the Wayne Foundation Lucius Fox had
this to say.
LUCIUS FOX is stands outside the Wayne Foundation in front of
a circle of reporters.
LUCIUS
WayneTech, regardless of what
S.T.A.R. Labs, LexCorp and others
may say, has always had the public
and environment in mind. By meeting
with environmentalists and their
foundations WayneTech can open a
dialogue and both sides can be
heard. If technology can make the
world a better place then working
with the environmentalists can only
make it twice as better.
INT. WAYNE MANOR - BALLROOM - DAY
Bruce and Talia are slow dancing in the middle of the Ball
Room while a STRING QUARTET serenades them.
TALIA
Is this how all your meetings go?
BRUCE
Only the good ones.
TALIA
And do you think that this meeting
is going good?
BRUCE
(huge smile)
Very good.
TALIA
So uh... who's the quartet?
BRUCE
They're students from Gotham
University. I give out grants every
year to local schools, each one for
a different field. There's just
happened to be music. Soon they'll
be moving on to the Gotham City
Orchestra.
TALIA
So deep down there's more to you
then just a rich playboy.
BRUCE
That's right. I'm a real superhero.
TALIA
Well, for the ladies sake I hope
you're not the Flash when it comes
to the bedroom.
BRUCE
No, I think I got that part under
control.
TALIA
So... how long have you lived here,
Bruce?
BRUCE
Bruce? Oh, I'm on a first name
basis now?
Talia smiles ear to ear.
BRUCE (CONT'D)
I've lived here all my life. As a
matter of fact aside from the
Penthouse at the Wayne Foundation
this is the only house I've ever
spent the night in while in Gotham.
TALIA
Really? No sleep overs during grade
school or anything?
BRUCE
No, my childhood was... less then
normal. So what about you, Talia?
Talia smiles at her name.
TALIA
Um, you could say the same with me.
My father didn't spend much time in
one area so we moved around a lot
so I didn't have very many friends.
And my father loved helping the
environment so I guess since I
lacked in friends I just kinda
threw myself into his cause and
made up for it there.
BRUCE
So would you say that you and your
father are close?
TALIA
Yes, I like to think so.
Talia begins to speak but she holds back. Bruce notices it.
BRUCE
What is it?
TALIA
Nothing.
BRUCE
No, what is it?
TALIA
I was going to ask you something
but never mind.
BRUCE
No, it's okay. You can ask me
anything.
TALIA
Well, I heard what happened to your
parents when you were younger and I
was going to ask you if you
remembered what relationship you
had with them. It just seems so
long ago I can't even remember my
father when I was that age.
BRUCE
No, it's okay. I still remember
them... not a day goes by that I
don't. I remember my father was
strict but he was fair and that my
mother would always protect me if I
did something wrong and was going
to be punished for it.
(beat)
We spent most of our time playing
cards or board games and every
weekend my father would take me and
my mother to the theater. No matter
what he always made time for us, my
mother did aswell.
TALIA
Sounds like you really love them.
BRUCE
I do. I built my whole life around
them.
TALIA
Well, I'm sure they still love you
where they're at. I'm sure a lot of
people love you.
BRUCE
Not many.
Talia stands as close as she can to him.
TALIA
Well... maybe it's time for one
more.
Talia and Bruce stare deeply into each others eyes. Talia
lays her head on Bruce's chest as he wraps his arms around
her and holds her.
EXT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - DAY
Two Police cars pull into the gates of ARKHAM ASYLUM. After
driving up the long hill leading to the Asylum the cars
finally park. Gordon steps out of one of the cars while
Bullock and Montoya get out of the other.
GORDON
Man, I hate this place.
BULLOCK
The dregs of Gotham, Commish.
MONTOYA
Well, put a tie on them and we'd
have the Politicians of Gotham.
GORDON
(whispers)
Shhh, not out loud, Montoya.
MONTOYA
(whispers)
Sorry.
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - ENTRANCE - DAY
JEREMIAH ARKHAM greets the Police at the door.
JEREMIAH
Ahh, I've been expecting you. How
has your day been officers?
GORDON
It's been better, Dr. Arkham.
JEREMIAH
Oh, I see. No new leads into your
case?
GORDON
Not yet I'm afraid. How is the
patient doing?
JEREMIAH
Mr. Zsasz is doing quite well I
must say.
BULLOCK
So what's the verdict doc is Zsasz
a freakin' whack job or not?
JEREMIAH
Officer, we stress not to use terms
like that. Mentally ill, is the
acceptable term.
BULLOCK
The guy's a murderer, it's all the
same.
JEREMIAH
No, I'm afraid it's not. If he was
just plain evil doing it of his own
free will then he would be, but if
a person is mentally ill then it's
not their fault, they can't control
their actions. Now please follow
me.
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - FIRST FLOOR - DAY
As the four walk down a hallway that's filled with NURSES
helping PATIENTS. The longer they walk down the hall the fact
that Arkham was originally a Victorian Mansion which was
converted to a Asylum can easily be made out.
JEREMIAH
Don't worry, I assure you that
theses floors, in fact all our
floors are perfectly safe.
We have twenty-four hour surveyance
on all floors and ten security
guards per floor. We keep our most
dangerous patients on the lower
levels so please this way.
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - BOTTOM FLOOR - DAY
Jeremiah leads the Police down a large and well lite floor.
Giant doors with huge locks as far as the eye can see on both
sides fill the hallway. As Jeremiah talks Montoya spots a
QUESTION MARK LOGO on one of the doors. On the other side of
the room Bullock sees a ROSE LOGO on another door.
JEREMIAH
In order to help some of our newer
talent along the way along with the
obvious cell numbers we put logo's
on the cell doors as well. This
tends to keep everyone walking in
the middle of the hallway.
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - ZSASZ'S ROOM - DAY
Jeremiah opens a door that leads to a small room cut off from
the rest with a large glass frame with four guards watching
over Zsasz who is asleep on a cot.
JEREMIAH
It seems that several patients felt
threatened by the fact that he
holds a higher kill count then
others. Also their were some who
abhor Mr. Zsasz for what he did to
the children so we have to keep him
sperate from the others.
Jeremiah walks over to a intercom on the wall and presses the
speak button on it.
JEREMIAH (CONT'D)
Mr. Zsasz please wake up, you have
visitors.
BULLOCK
What's the deal with the intercom
is the room soundproof?
JEREMIAH
Yes, very.
(into the intercom)
Mr. Zsasz, visitors.
Zsasz rolls over from his cot and raises his head and looks
at the Police. Zsasz, now dressed like all the other
patients, gets out of the cot and walks over to his intercom.
ZSASZ
Hello, Dr. Arkham.
JEREMIAH
Hello, Mr. Zsasz. How are you
feeling today?
ZSASZ
I'm feeling lovely.
JEREMIAH
The Police have a few questions for
you, Mr. Zsasz.
ZSASZ
Oh, is that so? Well, I'm always
willing to help the Police.
Gordon walks over to the intercom.
GORDON
Zsasz.
ZSASZ
Commissioner.
GORDON
How have you been treated?
ZSASZ
Excellent, Commissioner.
GORDON
Look, we need more information from
you.
ZSASZ
Like what?
GORDON
The scars on your body, are they
from other people you have
murdered?
ZSASZ
Zombies, Mr. Commissioner, they
were mindless zombies caught in a
world of the never ending pointless
trivial stuff.
The same old, same old as you would
say. There lives, what little they
were, were never going to change.
They did what society told them to
do. Living in Gotham and every
other city on this planet will
destroy your life and turn it into
shit. They were lost and were never
to return. I helped them escape.
But I do realize they were human as
I am and that is why I mark myself.
To remind myself that I am human
also.
GORDON
So you admit your murdered them.
ZSASZ
No. I exterminated them,
Commissioner.
GORDON
You do realize that is not how the
courts will see it.
ZSASZ
The court system is in its very
nature corrupt Gordon. Instead of
cases being judged by the law it's
judged on precedence. The judges
care more about what some other
judge says then what the law says.
They are also mindless drones
Commissioner. It's sad that a man
like you puts so much faith into
it. Maybe that is why you allow
Batman to run amok since he goes
against the rules that are so
venal.
GORDON
You're going to be locked up for a
long time, Zsasz.
ZSASZ
With this court system? I doubt it.
With good behavior I'll be out in
six months.
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - OUTSIDE ZSASZ'S ROOM - DAY
The door opens with Montoya, Bullock, and Gordon walking out
the door with Jeremiah following behind them.
JEREMIAH
Well, I hope you're happy with your
interview, Commissioner Gordon.
GORDON
He just admitted that he murdered
all those people. Of course I'm
happy, we got him.
JEREMIAH
Just because you have him doesn't
mean you'll get him.
MONTOYA
What are you saying?
JEREMIAH
Remember if he is mentally ill then
we take care of him. You don't get
the luxury of frying him.
BULLOCK
You dirty --
GORDON
You have no idea the danger this
man possess. You can't hold him
here.
JEREMIAH
No Commissioner I told you we are
fully capable of handing the
situation and only we can give him
the help that he needs. Like the
sign says on the Gate says "Arkham
Asylum: Home for the Criminally
Insane".
MONTOYA
If that monster gets loose --
JEREMIAH
I assure you he won't.
(motioning security)
Now please, I think you may have
upset my patient. I'll have
security will escort you out.
BULLOCK
We don't need your security.
Jeremiah watches the Police then turns back into Zsasz's
room.
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - ZSASZ'S ROOM - DAY
Jeremiah walks up to the intercom as Zsasz goes to his.
JEREMIAH
I'm sorry for the actions of the
police.
ZSASZ
That's alright. Do you wish to
begin another session now?
JEREMIAH
Yes. Now please Mr. Zsasz... tell
me about your mother.
EXT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - DAY
The Police head towards their respective cars.
BULLOCK
This stinks, Commish. You better
have a talk with the mayor about
this one.
GORDON
I'll talk to him Bullock but I
doubt he'll see the light.
BULLOCK
Well, we're going to be seeing
whole lot of dead Gothamites if
that nut job isn't taken care of.
He belongs in San Quentin not in
Arkham.
GORDON
I know Bullock but if the Mayor
doesn't agree then we're --
MONTOYA
Screwed.
GORDON
Big time.
EXT. WAYNE MANOR - BACKYARD - DAY
Bruce walks along side Talia down a path. Talia is astonished
at the size and beauty of Bruce's backyard. This is a sight
you would never see in a Gotham Travel Brochure.
TALIA
It must take a fortune to care for
this place.
BRUCE
It does and the only time nobody is
working on it is the winter.
TALIA
I don't see anyone out here today.
BRUCE
Well, I that's 'cause I gave them
the day off. That or they finished
early I can't really remember.
TALIA
Yeah, right. You just wanted to get
me back here alone didn't you?
BRUCE
Well--
TALIA
Oh, look at the flowers!
Talia races up to a large garden leaving Bruce standing by
himself.
BRUCE
(finishing)
Yeah, actually I did.
Bruce strolls over to Talia who has immersed herself inside
the garden.
TALIA
These are so beautiful.
BRUCE
Yeah, Alfred picks them out every
year.
TALIA
Really?
BRUCE
Yeah -- no, no, no, I mean I pick
them out every year.
Talia looks back at Bruce knowing it's a lie.
BRUCE
Yeah, WayneTech and the
environment, I love the
environment. First thing I think of
in the morning 'cause I have to
breath and if I can't breath then I
say, "Hey, something's wrong with
the environment but it's not
WayneTech's fault because we love
the environment."
Talia smiles at Bruce. Bruce smiles back and extends his
hand. Talia softly takes his hand. Bruce starts leading her
through the garden and she happily follows.
As they walk Talia slowly tightens her hand around Bruce's.
He does that same to her's and are soon walking hand in hand.
Talia wraps her other arm around Bruce's then gently lays her
head on his shoulder.
INT. MAYOR'S OFFICE - DAY
The Mayor sits behind his desk not caring what Gordon has to
say to him.
HILL
No.
GORDON
Mayor, you don't see the --
HILL
I don't care, Gordon. Zsasz is in
Arkham. He can't escape and the
courts are going to handle his
case. That's all I can do.
GORDON
Hamilton, you know as well as I do
that Arkham isn't inescapable and
Zsasz is going to attempt it the
first chance he gets.
HILL
I don't know that.
GORDON
What?!
HILL
I don't know that he won't escape,
hell he might like it in there.
GORDON
What kind of crap is this?
HILL
This crap is --
GORDON
Politics! It's damn politics! It
never changes with you people!
HILL
Gordon I've had enough of you. Get
out my office.
GORDON
Mark my word Mr. Mayor when Zsasz
gets out I putting the blood on
your hands not my department.
HILL
Get out!
Gordon slams the door shut as he leaves the room. After a
beat a familiar voice is heard.
BULLOCK
(through the door)
He stinks!
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - ZSASZ ROOM - NIGHT
Zsasz sits quietly inside his room while the guards sit
around in a circle playing cards.
Nobody notices Zsasz's smile.
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - SECURITY ROOM - NIGHT
TWO SECURITY GUARDS sit in front of the monitors each one
slowly dozing off. One guard catches himself from falling
asleep and smacks the other guard on the shoulder waking him
up.
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - JEREMIAH'S OFFICE - NIGHT
Jeremiah sits at his desk looking over inmate files. EDWARD
NIGMA, VICTOR FRIES and PAMELA ISLEY are the recognizable
names that we see.
Jeremiah opens his file on Zsasz... completely empty.
He reaches inside his coat pocket and takes out a key and
unlocks his desk drawer and pulls out another file. An
overflowing file marked... THE BATMAN.
A KNOCK on the door. Jeremiah quickly stashes the Batman
files.
JEREMIAH
Come in.
AHMS LABARBA, Jeremiah's assistant walks in.
JEREMIAH (CONT'D)
Ahms, come on in.
AHMS
Mr. Arkham you wanted to see me?
JEREMIAH
Yes, come in, come in. I wanted to
talk to you about Mr. Zsasz.
Ahms takes a sit next to Jeremiah desk.
AHMS
What did you have in mind?
JEREMIAH
Ah, mind, that's exactly it. I
believe that Mr. Zsasz can help us
achieve some great success in the
field.
AHMS
Yes, Mr. Zsasz is in need of some
serious --
JEREMIAH
No, no, no. That's not what I'm
talking about. It's a given that
Mr. Zsasz would be a great study
but in this city who would be the
greatest study?
AHMS
I don't quite follow.
JEREMIAH
Batman.
AHMS
Batman?
JEREMIAH
Nobody knows anything about him,
only the people he picks up. Look
at this file.
(handing the file to Ahms)
This file if full of story's about
the Batman. Who knows which ones
are true and which ones aren't. The
thing that is almost a given is
that the Batman never does anything
in the day.
AHMS
(coming around)
Wait a minute. Do you want to use
Zsasz to study Batman?
JEREMIAH
Yes.
AHMS
How?
JEREMIAH
How do you think the Batman would
react if Zsasz got loose?
AHMS
Wait -- are you going to let Zsasz
go free?
JEREMIAH
No of course not. He's going to
break out.
AHMS
But what about the people of
Gotham?
JEREMIAH
Sacrifices are made everyday. It's
time that the greedy Gothamites
sacrifice something too. We have
the chance to not only study the
Batman, but also a criminal mind
and the entire city of Gotham.
AHMS
You're mad. Everyone was right.
Your family was and now you are
too.
JEREMIAH
Don't you dare back out on me,
Ahms. Not after all we've been
through.
AHMS
No. No, I won't stand for this! NO!
Ahms starts heading for the door Jeremiah stands up to block
him.
JEREMIAH
You're not leaving until you go
through with this.
AHMS
You're crazy! Ahms tries to go
around.
Jeremiah grabs Ahms. A struggle ensues. Ahms overpowers
Jeremiah and throws him onto a couch and heads for the door.
Ahms swings it open only to get his throat slashed.
Ahms falls dead to the floor.
Jeremiah looks down at his fallen assistant. Two bare feet
stand next to him. Jeremiah looks up to see Zsasz.
ZSASZ
Plans changed.
JEREMIAH
You -- you weren't suppose to kill
anybody here.
ZSASZ
I've only killed one. It's the
others that I'm worried about.
JEREMIAH
What others?
Zsasz walks over and grabs Jeremiah and drags him to the door
way.
ZSASZ
Those others.
Jeremiah looks on in horror as the inmates are literary
running the asylum.
JEREMIAH
Damn you, you released them.
ZSASZ
Perceptive.
JEREMIAH
You were the only one who was
suppose to --
ZSASZ
I said the plans changed. Look on
the bright side. If no one here
kills you you're going to have a
lot of paper work to keep you busy
for the next several years.
Zsasz starts to walk off then stops.
JEREMIAH
But --
ZSASZ
Oh, by the way, where did you put
my clothes at? I can't seem to find
them.
JEREMIAH
Uh... third floor?
ZSASZ
Thanks, you're a real pal.
Zsasz takes off. Jeremiah bolts behind the door and locks it.
Quickly the room fills with light. Jeremiah looks out the
window and sees the BATSIGNAL shinning brightly over the
city.
EXT. GOTHAM POLICE HEADQUARTERS - ROOFTOP - NIGHT
Gordon stands beside the BATSIGNAL smoking his pipe. Waiting.
Watching. Hoping.
INT. GOTHAM HOTEL - HALLWAY - NIGHT
Bruce is walking hand in hand with Talia down the Hallway.
Both being very "friendly" with each other, we know what's
coming next. Behind them is a large window with the BATSIGNAL
shinning over the city. Amazingly Bruce misses it.
TALIA
Here's my room.
Bruce walks with Talia to the door.
BRUCE
It's a shame we didn't get to speak
more about business.
TALIA
Yes, I guess we'll have to do this
again.
Talia begins to unlock the door.
BRUCE
I have no problem with --
(noticing the signal)
-- that.
Talia turns back and catches Bruce's glance and then looks
out the window.
TALIA
Oh, wow, so that's what it looks
like?
BRUCE
(hurrying along)
Yeah, it -- it's just Batman.
TALIA
Is he going to fight someone?
BRUCE
I don't know. I don't really pay
attention to that Batman crap.
TALIA
Jealous?
BRUCE
No. Just no interest in him but hey
look, um, it's getting kinda late
so I'm going to leave. I don't want
to wear my welcome out.
TALIA
But I was just going to ask you if
you wanted to come in for awhile?
BRUCE
No, that's okay, I don't want you
to think I was trying to get you in
the sack or anything so I'll see
you tomorrow. Okay?
TALIA
Um... you sure?
BRUCE
Yeah.
Talia leaps forward and hugs Bruce tightly and gives him a
big KISS on the cheek leaving a LIPSTICK print.
TALIA
Tomorrow, love.
Bruce gives a quick "I've-got-to-get-out-of-here" hug.
BRUCE
Okay, bye.
TALIA
Bye-bye.
Bruce turns and walks away.
TALIA (CONT'D)
Say, "Hi" to Batman for me.
Wayne quickly turns back around.
BRUCE
What?
TALIA
In case you see him on the way
home. You know in that Bat-car
thing.
BRUCE
You mean the Batmobile?
TALIA
Is that what they call it?
BRUCE
I don't know. Some reporter Knox
said something like that.
TALIA
Okay. Well, Nightie-night.
Talia blows a kiss then closes the door. Bruce turns and runs
down the hallway.
EXT. GOTHAM HOTEL - MOMENTS LATER
Bruce runs out of the front door and straight to the waiting
Royals with Alfred driving. Bruce hops in.
BRUCE
Quickly, Alfred.
ALFRED
Yes, sir.
Alfred hurries quickly gets in the car and takes off.
INT. ROYALS ROYCE - NIGHT
Bruce starts undoing his tie.
ALFRED
Shall we pull into a deserted ally
and give the coordinates to the
Batmobile and you can change while
waiting for it there?
BRUCE
No. Just send it to Police
Headquarters.
ALFRED
Yes, sir.
(beat)
Sir?
BRUCE
Yeah, Alfred?
ALFRED
You have lipstick on your face.
Bruce quickly beings wiping it off. Alfred reaches underneath
the front seat and pulls out a small laptop then punches in a
few keys.
CUT TO:
INT. BATCAVE - THAT MOMENT
The cave is pitch black. Suddenly a loud ROAR deafens us. A
FIRE starts in the middle of the screen then takes off at
break neck speed.
EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - NIGHT
Headlights blind us winding around the a rural road. Leaves
are blowing up to the sky. Birds fly from their nest in
panic. The roar gets louder by the second.
The headlights go down a hill and we see nothing but the
street.
WHOOM! The BATMOBILE races over top of the hill in front of
us in it's full glory.
EXT. GOTHAM POLICE HEADQUARTERS - ROOFTOP - NIGHT
Gordon continues his wait on the Batman.
BAM!
Gordon turns to his side in time to see a the hook of a
BATGRAPPLE wrap around one of the satellites on the rooftop.
Within seconds the Batman whips upward by the spring-action
reel from the BATGRAPPLE landing on the ledge of the
building.
GORDON
We have serious problems, Batman.
I've spoken with Mayor Hill and he
doesn't see eye to eye with
Montoya, Bullock and myself.
BATMAN
What is it?
GORDON
Zsasz. We believe that he will try
to escape Arkham whenever he gets
the chance. We need him moved to a
maximum security area but the mayor
won't budge and Arkham needs a
complete rehaul on his security and
we both know that Jeremiah Arkham
will never do that.
BATMAN
What about the D.A.?
GORDON
He's useless. We haven't had a good
one since Harvey Dent.
BATMAN
What do you want me to do?
GORDON
I want you at Arkham but if the
Mayor even has hint that you're
there then we're both out of
Gotham. So I guess I just want you
to be ready... for anything.
BATMAN
Always.
A ROAR is heard coming from the streets. Batman reaches into
his UTILITY BELT and pulls out a RADIO TRANSMITTER.
BATMAN (CONT'D)
(into the transmitter)
Stop.
The roaring stops. Bullock and Montoya run out onto the roof.
MONTOYA
Batman! Thank, God.
GORDON
What is it?
BULLOCK
All hell just broke loose at
Arkham. The inmates running loose
everywhere.
GORDON
Zsasz must have escaped and
released all the inmates. Batman
you --
WHOOSH! Before Gordon can finish his sentence the Batman
leaps off the ledge. Gordon, Montoya and Bullock run to the
ledge only to see the BATMOBILE starting up again and
blasting down the streets of Gotham.
BULLOCK
Alright I'll admit it. That's cool
as hell. But I still don't
trust'em.
Gordon turns and around and heads towards the stairs.
GORDON
Okay, I want all units on the
streets now and headed to Arkham.
Call the S.W.A.T. team, the
National Guard and alert all the
news agencies to tell --
INT. TELEVISION STUDIO - NIGHT
Summer sits at the anchor desk once again.
SUMMMER
-- all citizens of Gotham to stay
calm. All police units are being
mobilized and sent out as we speak.
We have even been informed by
Police Commissioner Gordon.
(beat)
It is unknown at this point in time
the whereabouts of the current
proprietor of Arkham, Jeremiah
Arkham. Police fear that a hostage
situation could develop.
SMASH CUT:
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - JEREMIAH'S OFFICE - NIGHT
CLOSE UP
Jeremiah's face.
INMATE #1 (O.S.)
Say it!
JEREMIAH
(weakly)
I --
INMATE #1 (O.S.)
Say it!
JEREMIAH
(weakly)
I like peanut butter.
Standing in front of Jeremiah is an inmate with shirt pulled
over his face and a SPATULA in his hand. A CHEER goes out
from the group of inmates sitting around a circle with
Jeremiah being in the center of it on a swivel chair.
The group swings Jeremiah around in the chair. The inmates
stop Jeremiah right in front of the screaming Inmate.
INMATE #1
Say it again!
JEREMIAH
I like --
INMATE #1
Say it like you mean it!
JEREMIAH
I like peanut butter!
Another CHEER goes out. Jeremiah gets swung around again and
stopped in front the Screaming Inmate.
INMATE #1
Say it again!
CUT TO:
I/E. BATMOBILE - THAT MOMENT
Batman races through the city getting closer and closer to
Arkham.
ALFRED (O.S.)
(filtered)
Sir?
Batman looks down and sees Alfred on a small monitor.
BATMAN
What is it, Alfred?
ALFRED
(filtered)
That lovely young lady, Talia is on
the phone.
BATMAN
Great.
ALFRED
(filtered)
She is worried about your safety
because of the break out.
BATMAN
Can't your tell her I'm on a
private plane going to an emergency
meeting?
ALFRED
(filtered)
I don't think she is going to take
that for an answer, sir but I will
bail you out... again.
BATMAN
Thanks, Alfred. I owe you one.
ALFRED
(filtered)
Two if you count, Miss. Kyle.
I/E. POLICE CAR - NIGHT
Gordon rides in the back of Bullock and Montoya's car. Behind
them the majority of Gotham's finest follow.
BULLOCK
Man, oh man, the mayor is going to
love this!
GORDON
I know. We just better hope that
the Batman gets there in time
before anything bad really happens.
EXT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - NIGHT
Too late. INMATES are running around the front of Arkham
going... insane.
The rest are breaking into cars while others have the keys
and are in the process of driving off.
The Asylum itself has seen better days. One side is
completely covered in ICE. The other in VINES.
The inmates who haven't fled yet and are just hanging around
outside stop as they hear something... the BATMOBILE.
As soon as the BATMOBILE drives up the hill the inmates flip
out and start throwing rocks at it or beating themselves or
each other up. Quickly NETS are shot out from the sides of
the BATMOBILE capturing several inmates in each.
The GUNS from the hood of the BATMOBILE pop open, the inmates
scream in horror. Batman flips a switch. The guns FIRE. But
instead of bullets streams of DARTS shoot out. The inmates
grab the body parts they were shot at then slowly slip into
unconsciousness.
Batman stops and hops out of the BATMOBILE.
EXT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - CONTINUOUS
The Gotham Police finally arrive on the scene as the Batman
walks into the Asylum.
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - ENTRANCE - NIGHT
The Batman walks into the Asylum and gets met by two inmates.
The one is CHALLENGING Batman and the other is FROTHING at
the mouth and keeps running into a wall.
The Challenger charges Batman. Batman quickly side steps him
causing the Challenger to run out the front door.
POLICEMAN (O.S.)
Freeze!
The Challenger does an about face only to have Batman -WHAM!-
SLAM the door in his face knocking him out cold.
Batman turns back around. The Frothing Man is still running
into the wall. Batman sees no danger and walks past him into
the Asylum.
EXT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - NIGHT
Gordon, Montoya and Bullock lead the charge into the Asylum.
GORDON
Remember don't shoot unless you
have to, now let's go!
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - ENTRANCE - NIGHT
Batman walks into to an insane nightmare. FROZEN Asylum
workers, DEAD MEN with ROSES placed on their chest, RIDDLES
written in graffiti and members of the RED TRIANGLE CIRCUS
GANG drawing RED TRIANGLES under their right eyes with RED
magic markers and ink pens.
The LEADER of the group turns and sees Batman.
LEADER
You! You killed the Penguin! You
killed Oswald!
The Triangle Gang ATTACKS Batman with a furry and with
whatever makeshift weapon they can find. Batman quickly
starts laying them out one by one but Batman becomes
surrounded by them. The Dark Knight reaches into his UTILITY
BELT and pulls out a BATARANG with a LED Screen on it, much
like the "homing BATARANG" from Batman Returns.
LEADER (CONT'D)
Oh no. We've seen that toy before,
Batman. You're not going to fool us
with that one.
Batman tosses the BATARANG into the air. The Triangle Gang
watches it hurl into the air. Batman kneels down and covers
himself in his cape.
WHOOM! A blinding light shoots out from the BATARANG
revealing that it was actually a FLASH BOMB.
Batman walks out of the circle of the Triangle Gang while
they stumble around in blindness swinging wildly.
Gordon and the Police rush in.
GORDON
Freeze! Everybody get your hands
up!
A Triangle member takes a wild swing and knocks out the
LEADER.
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - JEREMIAH'S OFFICE - NIGHT
Batman kicks open the door. Jeremiah is still in the same
predicament he was last time.
JEREMIAH
Batman, please help!
Batman back up and walks away.
JEREMIAH
Batman!
INMATE #1
Say it again!
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - FIRST FLOOR - NIGHT
The police begin handcuffing the Triangle Gang. Gordon,
Montoya and Bullock head off in the same direction as Batman
and run across --
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - JEREMIAH'S OFFICE - NIGHT
Gordon looks inside.
GORDON
What the...
JEREMIAH
Gordon, help!
Gordon considers it. Then heads off after Batman.
GORDON
Let's go!
JEREMIAH
Gordon!
INMATE #1
Say it again!
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - BOTTOM FLOOR - NIGHT
Batman walks along the floor noticing every cell is empty. He
gets to the end of the hallway to Zsasz room and opens the
door.
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - ZSASZ'S ROOM - NIGHT
Inside the four Security Guards are still sitting on the
floor with cards in front of them. Throats SLIT. Batman heads
back into the hallway.
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - OUTSIDE ZSASZ'S ROOM - NIGHT
Gordon and Montoya run up to Batman.
GORDON
Okay who's our biggest problem
right now?
MONTOYA
Ivy, Riddler, Bane, Freeze, Croc,
Man-Bat, Clayface, Deadshot and
Zsasz.
GORDON
Is that all?
MONTOYA
Off the top of my head.
GORDON
Any ideas on how to handle this,
Batman?
BATMAN
Take who you can get.
Batman walks heads off with Gordon and Montoya following.
Bullock runs in panting as Batman exits with Gordon and
Montoya.
GORDON
Come on, Bullock.
BULLOCK
(winded)
I just got down here.
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - FIRST FLOOR - NIGHT
Batman and the rest walk through the First Floor with some
inmates still running loose but are being caught easily by
the Police.
GORDON
How's it going in here?
COP
It's under control so far.
GORDON
After all these inmates are locked
up I want all available officers on
the streets looking for every
inmate that escaped from here.
Gordon, Montoya and Bullock follow Batman out the door.
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - ENTRANCE - NIGHT
As Batman walks passed the entrance Frothing Man is still
running into the same wall. Without losing his stride Batman
grabs him by the shoulder and turns him around sending the
Frothing Man BACK into the Asylum.
EXT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - CONTINUOUS
Batman heads towards the BATMOBILE. Outside the remaining
inmates are being cuffed and taken back inside.
GORDON
You know Batman, this is a real
crisis. Maybe we should call and
Metropolis and see if they can find
Super --
Batman turns around PISSED.
GORDON (CONT'D)
Okay my mistake, bad idea.
Batman heads into the BATMOBILE and takes off.
MONTOYA
Ready to go, Commissioner?
I/E. BATMOBILE - NIGHT
Batman turns on his monitor.
BATMAN
Alfred.
ALFRED
(filtered)
A report has just come across that
a big green lizard is destroying
west end.
BATMAN
Killer Croc.
EXT. GOTHAM STREETS - WEST SIDE - NIGHT
People run for their lives as a large reptilian like man is
destroying everything in sight. Vehicles, light poles, cars,
etc. KILLER CROC is his name.
Two brave but STUPID CITIZEN'S grab some rocks and throw it
at Croc. Only getting his attention.
CROC
That was stupid.
The Two try and make a break for it but Croc catches them in
the middle of the street then slams both against a wall on
the OTHER side of the road.
Croc sees a mail box and rips it up from the ground and walks
over to the two who are knocked out cold. Croc lifts the mail
box over his head then gets blinded by headlights. He drops
the mail box behind him and sees a NET shot out from the
BATMOBILE.
The net wraps around him but only annoys Croc as he rips the
net to shreds. Batman hops out of the BATMOBILE and marches
toward Croc.
CROC (CONT'D)
I'm not going back to Arkham,
Batman. I didn't do anything wrong!
BATMAN
You need help, Waylon.
CROC
Look at me! You think anyone can
help this!
Croc charges Batman and swings wildly at him. Batman ducks
and dodges every shot and tries to sweep Croc. Croc doesn't
budge.
Croc pulls Batman out then throws him through a PLATE GLASS
WINDOW right into--
INT. DANCE CLUB - CONTINUOUS
A loaded dance club. The people in the club all stand around
as they look at Batman. As Batman starts to stand up blood
flows from a gash on Batman's right cheek. As soon as he does
-WHAM!- the mail box nails Batman in the back dropping him
back down.
Croc jumps through the window. Everyone in the club freaks
out and runs. Croc gets to Batman but Batman kips up and
starts laying rights and lefts to Croc. Croc smiles then POW!-
backhands Batman sending him through the air several feet.
Killer Croc continues his wish of onslaught and goes right
back after Batman.
CLUB GOER (O.S.)
Kick that Ninja Turtles' ass,
Batman!
CROC
Who said that?!
Batman sees his break and reaches into his UTILITY BELT and
grabs a BATARANG then throws it a Croc's head. THUNNG! Direct
hit Croc goes light on his feet. Batman charges Croc and lets
out a furious combo of several martial art styles backing
Croc up the window. One devastating BACK SPIN KICK sends Croc
back out onto the street.
EXT. GOTHAM STREETS - WEST SIDE - NIGHT
Batman reaches into his UTILITY BELT and grabs a VIAL. Croc
manages to stand up. As soon as he turns around Batman throws
the vial straight at Croc's face -- PHEWW!
Croc yells in pain and gasps for breath as smoke surrounds
his face. POW! A side kicks sends Croc back over top of the
car that he rammed Batman's face into. Batman slides over the
hood of the car and grabs another VIAL from his UTILITY BELT
and throws it into the car that EXPLODES into more SMOKE.
Batman grabs Croc and sticks his head into the car and holds
him face down into the smoke. Croc gags and fights violently.
The smoke is too much and Croc finally goes out cold.
Batman backs away from the car and heads towards the
BATMOBILE and hops in.
BATMAN
I got, Croc.
ALFRED
(filtered)
Yes, sir. We have another
disturbance.
BATMAN
Where?
The BATMOBILE fires up and burns down the street while the on
lookers cheer the Batman.
EXT. WAYNETECH - MOMENTS LATER
WayneTech employees' are running out of the building.
INT. WAYNETECH, FIRST FLOOR - NIGHT
DEADSHOT holds the employee's hostage making each one stand
in place.
DEADSHOT
I said don't move now where is he?!
Where is Wayne?!
Lucius Fox desperately tries to hold things together.
LUCIUS
Sir, I implore you to please stop
this.
DEADSHOT
I was hired to kill Wayne and I'm
going to do it! Just because they
throw me in that hellhole Arkham
doesn't mean I don't fulfill my
contracts. Now where is he?!
LUCIUS
Sir --
BANG! Deadshot shoots the glasses off Lucius' face.
DEADSHOT
I'm not going to ask you again!
LUCIUS
Please, I swear, Mr. Wayne is not
here.
DEADSHOT
I told you.
Deadshot aims at Lucius' face. Lucius closes his eyes tightly
and says a quick prayer to himself.
CLINK!
DEADSHOT (O.S.)
Ahh!
Lucius opens his eyes and sees Deadshot holding his arm.
Lucius looks down on the floor and sees a BATARANG.
DEADSHOT
You bastard where are you?!
All the hostages take the chance and drop to the floor.
Deadshot carefully moves around the room.
DEADSHOT
I'll find you, Batman. You can't
hide forever.
PHEW! All the power goes out in the building. The hostages
scream.
DEADSHOT (CONT'D)
Shut up! Everyone shut up!
(beat)
Mind games don't work with me,
Batman.
As Deadshot walks around he ends up in front of a large
window with the Gotham streets lights allowing us to make out
his silhouette.
DEADSHOT (CONT'D)
Come on Batman show your --
BAM! The ventilation shaft opens up with Batman arms reaching
down and pulling up Deadshot. GUNSHOTS ring out, hostages
scream, a body falls and dangles in front of us. The lights
come back on.
Deadshot is tied up hanging upside down.
DEADSHOT (CONT'D)
Damn you! Get me out of here!
The hostages run over to Deadshot and start KICKING him.
I/E. BATMOBILE - MOMENTS LATER
Batman hurries down Gotham, eyeing every alley.
BATMAN
Anything yet?
ALFRED
(filtered)
No, sir. I take it you captured
Deadshot?
BATMAN
He was trying to kill Bruce
Wayne... again.
(beat)
I wonder how Gordon is doing.
EXT. GOTHAM STREETS - THAT MOMENT
Gordon and Bullock are taking cover behind a car.
BULLOCK
This is crazy, Commish!
GORDON
You don't think I know that?!
Quickly the car starts to FREEZE. Gordon and Bullock bail.
GORDON (CONT'D)
How the hell did he get that gun so
quick!
BULLOCK
Stinkin' eBay!
Gordon and Bullock run behind a building. Gordon grabs the
radio.
GORDON
Where the hell is that copper?!
MAN ON RADIO
(filtered)
It's on its way, sir.
Gordon looks up to the sky and sees a police chopper flying
above carrying a huge crate with smoke pouring from the top
of it.
GORDON
Now! Drop it now!
MAN ON RADIO
(filtered)
Roger.
The crate opens with steaming HOT WATER falling from it. A
horrifying SCREAM is let out from a MAN on the street.
GORDON
Go, go, go!
Police charge as Gordon looks on intensely.
COP
We got him!
Gordon picks up the radio.
GORDON
Good job boy's we got Freeze.
BULLOCK
Why the hell didn't you guys do
this the first time with Freeze?
GORDON
Shut up, Bullock.
MONTAGE:
Blood sprays on floors, ceilings, fans, curtains, beds, TV,
kitchen tables, boards games, video games, footballs, all in
different houses from rich to poor. A pair of white gloves
wiping off a the same knife is seen repeatedly.
EXT. GOTHAM HOME - NIGHT
Zsasz, once again dressed in his Magician's outfit quietly
walks out the front door of a house. Inside another poor
family sits peacefully dead in their living room. MOTHER,
FATHER, BROTHER, SISTERS.
I/E. BATMOBILE - NIGHT
Batman drives by an alley then SLAMS on the breaks.
BATMAN
Found Clayface.
Batman puts the BATMOBILE in reverse, turns and heads down
the alley stopping in the middle of it. Batman looks for
Clayface but he is nowhere to be seen. Batman flips a switch
and an INFER-RED screen appears on the monitor. No hot
objects are seen.
Batman ponders a beat then opens the top of the BATMOBILE and
cautiously stands up and looks out.
Two giant CLAY LIKE hands grabs Batman by the shoulders and
throws him against one of the buildings in the alley. Batman
smacks the building hard then falls onto the hood of the
BATMOBILE then crashes onto the ground.
Batman quickly gets up in a fighting stance but no Clayface
in sight.
CLAYFACE (O.S.)
(whispers)
Batman. Batman looks around.
CLAYFACE (O.S.)
(whispers)
What's wrong?
Batman backs up to the side of a building and walks along the
side of it. A HORRENDOUS SHRIEK heard over head. Batman looks
up to the Gotham sky.
CLAYFACE (O.S.)
(whispers)
Uh-oh. Man-Bat is out. Who are you
going after now me or him? You
can't have us both.
The shriek is heard again. Closer. Louder. Batman thinks then
slowly heads towards the BATMOBILE.
CLAYFACE (O.S.)
(whispers)
Good choice.
Batman hops into the BATMOBILE and sits down. Batman checks
the monitors. On it an old HOBO is walking on the other side
of the street.
BATMAN
Worked before.
Batman starts up the BATMOBILE then throws it into reverse
heading straight towards the hobo. Batman slams on the breaks
just feet in front of the hobo then flips a switch.
A FIREBALL shoots out the back engine engulfing the Hobo in
flames. The Hobo screams in pain but with CLAYFACE'S VOICE.
Suddenly the Hobo MORPHS into whom Batman knew he was all
along... CLAYFACE.
Still on fire Clayface's movements quickly get more ridged
and stiff. SLOWLY his body starts to harden until his is
nothing more then a giant mold of CLAY. Batman heads down the
street.
BATMAN
Alfred get the Batwing ready.
ALFRED
(filtered)
Yes, sir.
EXT. GOTHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS - NIGHT
A police car pulls away as Montoya wipes blood from her
mouth. Gordon radios in.
INTERCUT AS NEED
GORDON
How's it going, Montoya?
MONTOYA
I got Ivy. Crazy bitch tried to
kill me with a giant Venus Flytrap.
GORDON
Again?
MONTOYA
Yeah, so what's the score?
GORDON
You got Ivy and we've gotten
Freeze. I got word a few minutes
ago that the National Guard got the
Riddler and it seems Batman has
been very busy.
MONTOYA
Who'd he get?
GORDON
Croc and Deadshot... wait a minute.
A officer whispers something to Gordon.
GORDON
He just got Clayface, too.
MONTOYA
So aside from the other crazies we
need Bane, Man-Bat and Zsasz?
GORDON
That's right --
A thunderous ROAR blasts over Gordon's head.
GORDON
I think he's looking for Man-Bat
now.
MONTOYA
What makes you so sure?
GORDON
Oh, just a hunch.
EXT. GOTHAM CITY - ARIEL SHOT - NIGHT
The BATWING flies above the city.
EXT. GOTHAM STREETS - NIGHT
CITIZEN'S are standing on the sidewalk watching a news report
in the window of a television store. The OWNER of a food
stand that's next to the shop is among the spectators.
A SHADOW goes over the food stand.
OWNER
(still watching TV)
Yeah, just help yourself out there
buddy I'll be with you in a minute.
Loud MUNCHING follows.
OWNER
(still watching TV)
Hey, you better not be eatin' none
of my food over there!
The owner turns around and sees MAN-BAT towering above the
fruit stand eating freely.
OWNER
Oh -- SHIT!
Man-Bat SHRIEKS sending citizens running for their lives. Man
bat continues to devour the fruit without a care for the
cowards. Suddenly his ears PERK.
Man-bat SNIFFS the air then SHRIEKS up towards the sky. Man
Bat SHRIEKS again then takes off flying.
I/E. BATWING - THAT MOMENT
Batman spots Man-Bat coming up from the street.
EXT. GOTHAM CITY - ARIEL SHOT - NIGHT
Man-bat looks back and SHRIEKS then flies away from the
BATWING. Batman heads in after him. Man-bat quickly starts
making beautiful air maneuvers dodging in and out and between
BUILDINGS and SMOKE TOWERS but the Batman is there for every
one.
INT. BATWING - CONTINUOUS
Batman punches up a MAP and sees that the GOTHAM RADIO TOWER
is only a few miles away.
BATMAN
Alfred, override the Gotham Radio
tower when I tell you.
INT. BATCAVE - THAT MOMENT
Alfred sits at the Batcomputer and types some keys in.
ALFRED
Yes, sir.
EXT. GOTHAM CITY - ARIEL SHOT - THAT MOMENT
Man-bat continues his non-stop flight above Gotham. Finally
we get out of the downtown area and into more open space.
Before us on a hill is GOTHAM RADIO TOWER.
BATMAN
Get ready, Alfred.
ALFRED (O.S.)
(filtered)
Ready, sir.
Man-bat does a U-turn --
BATMAN
Damn.
-- and heads straight towards the BATWING landing on top of
it! Man-bat violently starts pounding away on the windshield.
Batman ROLLS the BATWING but Man-bat continues to pound away
until the windshield CRACKS. Man-Bat SHRIEKS.
Batman screams in pain grabbing his ears. Batman loses
control and the Batwing beings a downward decent. Man-bat
doesn't budge!
BATMAN (CONT'D)
Do it now, Alfred!
INT. BATCAVE - THAT MOMENT
Alfred presses ENTER on the keyboard.
EXT. GOTHAM CITY - ARIEL SHOT - THAT MOMENT
A glass shattering TONE rings out. Man-Bat grabs his head in
excruciating pain. Man-Bat leaps off the BATWING and tries to
fly but starts FREE FALLING.
A GRAPPLE shoots out from the BATWING and wraps around Man
Bat. The bottom of the BATWING opens up and REELS Man-Bat in.
INT. BATWING - NIGHT
Once inside Batman opens a hatch to see a squirming Man-Bat
still in pain. Batman takes a long SYRINGE and shoots him
with it.
BATMAN
Turn it off!
INT. BATCAVE - THAT MOMENT
Alfred punches in some more keys.
INT. BATWING - NIGHT
Man-Bat stops squirming and starts morphing back into a man.
The antidote serum has knocked Man-Bat out cold.
BATMAN
Don't worry, Kirk. We'll get you
back to Francine.
Batman goes back to his seat then flies away.
INT. GOTHAM POLICE HEADQUARTERS - GORDON'S OFFICE - DAWN
An exhausted Gordon opens the door to his office and stands
in the doorway beat.
GORDON
Any word on Batman?!
SECERTERY
He got Man-Bat a few minutes ago!
Gordon closes the door and heads towards the desk and sees a
letter that reads:
REST GORDON
At the bottom of the letter is a BATMAN LOGO. Gordon flops
down on his couch.
GORDON
Two more.
INT. WEARHOUSE - MORNING
Zsasz walks along a deserted wearhouse with briefcase in
hand.
VOICE (O.S.)
Over here.
Zsasz looks over to the corner where several crates are
stacked up next to a window. Zsasz heads towards the Voice.
VOICE (O.S.) (CONT'D)
Do you have the stuff?
ZSASZ
Yes. Do you remember the plan?
VOICE (O.S.)
Yes.
Zsasz walks over to a crate near the speaker and sets his
briefcase down and pops it open.
ZSASZ
This was hard to get.
VOICE (O.S.)
Who did you get it from?
ZSASZ
A professor named Hugo. He normally
doesn't deal with this type of
science.
VOICE (O.S.)
Can you trust him?
ZSASZ
Can you trust anybody?
Zsasz throws a large plastic bag over the crate.
ZSASZ
I hope these fit. Remember the
stuff I'm giving you is twice as
powerful as what you had last time.
No more tubes either, just patches.
A hospital gown flies out from behind the crate.
VOICE (O.S.)
Give me the stuff.
Zsasz reaches back into the briefcase and takes a large
metallic looking bag out and tosses it over the crate.
We hear the bag opened and then a smack of flesh, then
another, and another, and another.
Violent and painful howls echo throughout the warehouse.
Instead of stepping back in fear Zsasz smiles.
After the yelling dies down Zsasz throws one more object over
the crate and then walks away.
ZSASZ
Don't forget your mask --
A large mask lies on the floor.
ZSASZ (CONT'D)
Bane.
A GIANT hand reaches down and takes the mask.
INT. BATCAVE - MORNING
A banged up and dead tired Bruce sits on a table in a pair of
sweats. Alfred works on Bruce's cut.
ALFRED
This is an awful cut, sir.
BRUCE
Ow!
ALFRED
Sir, I can not remove all the glass
while you're moving around.
BRUCE
Sorry, Alfred. So what did you tell
Talia?
ALFRED
I told her that you have a quick
brush with illness.
BRUCE
Okay, I can play that. What was
wrong with me?
ALFRED
Diarrhea.
BRUCE
What?! Ow!
ALFRED
Quit moving around, sir.
BRUCE
You... what --
ALFRED
Don't worry sir, she was very
understandable about the situation.
BRUCE
Yeah, you... is that what you told
Selina Kyle?
ALFRED
No, sir.
Alfred dabs a cotton ball with some liquid and gets ready to
apply it to Bruce's face.
BRUCE
Well, at lest you didn't let her
into the Batcave like you did Vicki
Vale.
Alfred swiftly doubles up the liquid then SLAPS it on Bruce's
face.
BRUCE
OW!
ALFRED
Oh, I'm sorry sir, I forgot to tell
you that was going to hurt.
Bruce holds his cheek while Alfred walks off.
EXT. WAYNE MANOR - MORNING
Talia's car pulls up at the gate. Talia reaches out and
presses the intercom switch.
INT. BATCAVE - THAT MOMENT
Bruce looks up at the Batcomputer and see's Talia's car.
BRUCE
Oh, no. Alfred will you --
Alfred turns around smiling.
BRUCE (CONT'D)
No, wait, never mind, I'll do it.
Alfred sits down in a chair to watch the show. Bruce runs up
to the Batcomputer.
INTERCUT AS NEEDED
BRUCE (CONT'D)
Hello?
TALIA
Hey, love.
BRUCE
Hi, um... what are you doing here
so early?
TALIA
Well, I know that you're an early
riser and since Alfred told me you
were sick last night I brought you
some medicine for your diarrhea.
Bruce turns off the intercom.
BRUCE
(to Alfred with a slight
whimper)
You really told her that.
ALFRED
An old man doesn't get much
enjoyment out of life. I'm glad you
can be mine.
BRUCE
(turns the com on)
Oh... that's sweet of you. Um, come
on in.
TALIA
Thanks, love.
Bruce presses a key to open the gates, then goes to head up
the stairs.
BRUCE
I can't believe you told her that.
I finally meet someone normal and
guess what, "Oh, I'm sorry he's the
runs."
ALFRED
Have fun Master Bruce and don't
forget to come up with a good story
for the cut.
BRUCE
Thanks, Alfred.
INT. TALIA'S CAR - THAT MOMENT
Talia pulls into the driveway with the gates closing behind
her. As she parks her cellphone rings. Talia digs into her
purse and finds it.
TALIA
Father? I'm just visiting a
friend... Bruce Wayne... I know
father but he's different, besides
I think he's coming around to our
side... Father I want the same
thing you want but I want -- no I
haven't seen him only the
Batsignal... No, the news never
showed it.
Talia looks up and sees Bruce heading out the front door and
waves to Talia. Talia waves back.
TALIA
Look dad I have to go... No. Look I
care about him and if I fall in
love with him then I'll fall in
love with him and marry him is that
so bad? ...You don't have to remind
me about the Lazarus Pit...
Maybe for once I would like to have
love in my life father, do you know
how long I've waited for someone --
Father? Father?
Talia shakes her head in disgust and turns off the phone.
Bruce walks out to meet her. Talia brightens up but hastily
gets out of the car when she see's Bruce's cut.
TALIA (CONT'D)
Love what happened?
BRUCE
Oh, nothing I was in my gym
yesterday and I slipped and cut my
face on the end of one of the bars.
TALIA
Really? It looks like you cut by
glass.
BRUCE
Oh, no, no, no glass. It was a very
sharp bar. It was old.
(lie isn't working)
Okay, it was glass. I wanted to do
something nice for Alfred so I
washed dishes last night and when I
was putting up one of the glasses I
guess my hand or the glass was
still wet and it slipped and hit my
face.
TALIA
(baby talk)
Aww, my poor baby.
Talia hugs Bruce. He smiles: Mental note: broken glass lie
works.
BRUCE
Yep.
Talia reaches in her car and grabs a paper bag.
TALIA
Here, I got you some medicine and
I'm going to stand right there and
make sure you take all of it.
BRUCE
(forced laugh)
Oh... great.
INT. BULLOCKS APARTMENT - MORNING
Bullock is passed out cold on his couch. Needless to say that
just like Bullock the room is a mess with donuts boxes and
DVD's and VHS's of classic movies. The posters on the wall
show that Bullock is a true "movie buff".
Bullock's pleasant dreams are stopped as the phone rings. A
rightfully ticked off Bullock answers.
BULLOCK
What the hell do you want?!
GORDON (O.S.)
(filtered)
We got a real problem on our hand.
Either Zsasz has a copycat killer
or he's been real busy last night.
BULLOCK
What are you talking about?
CUT TO:
INT. GOTHAM POLICE HEADQUARTERS - GORDON'S OFFICE - THAT
MOMENT
Gordon stares at a billboard in his
room.
GORDON
I don't know how he had the time to
do it, but forensics is guessing
that he's killed over twenty people
since he's been out. So we better
get out there before the media
hounds find this out.
INT. WAYNE MANOR - LIVING ROOM - MORNING
Bruce and Talia sit on the couch watching TV.
TALIA
So Alfred --
BRUCE
Lied like a dog.
TALIA
I don't know. You look like you've
had an awfully rough night.
ALFRED (O.S.)
Good morning, Miss. al Ghul.
Bruce and Talia turn around.
TALIA
Oh, hello, Alfred.
ALFRED
How are you doing this fine day?
TALIA
I'm doing great, Alfred. How are
you?
ALFRED
Lovely, ma'am. Could I offer you
any thing to drink? Perhaps some
breakfast?
TALIA
No thank you, Alfred.
ALFRED
Are you sure, ma'am? It would be no
trouble at all.
TALIA
No, thank you, Alfred. I'm good.
ALFRED
How is your face doing this
morning, Master Bruce?
BRUCE
Oh, it's doing great, Alfred.
ALFRED
Well, alright then I'll be off.
Evening, Miss. al Ghul.
(to Bruce)
Sir.
TALIA
Bye, Alfred.
BRUCE
Later, Alfred.
Talia watches Alfred walk away then SMACKS Bruce on the arm.
TALIA
How could you lie about a sweet old
man like that?
BRUCE
(smiles)
I was just playing. Alfred and I do
that all the time.
TALIA
Are you sure?
BRUCE
Oh yeah. Positive, don't worry
about it. I just look horrible
because I had a very late business
meeting. It happens all the time
besides haven't you heard that rich
people are weird?
Talia smiles and takes Bruce's hand.
TALIA
Well, you're not weird to me,
Bruce.
Talia slowly leans in to kiss Bruce. Wayne returns the
favour. Bruce rethinks it and draws back.
BRUCE
You know um... I really like you
and I want to spend more time -
Talia smiles and hops next to Bruce and wraps both hands
around his and leans into his shoulder.
TALIA
I do too, Bruce.
BRUCE
Yeah... but um, I've kinda been in
this situation before and uh, it
didn't really work out. My life is
kinda... complex.
TALIA
What like you have a dark side or
something?
BRUCE
Yeah, pretty much.
TALIA
We all have our dark side.
BRUCE
Yeah, see now I've heard that
before too and that didn't really
help things.
TALIA
Did you and your last girlfriend
fight a lot?
BRUCE
Yeah, we were kicking and punching
and throwing acid on each other and
knocking one another off buildings,
it was just a horrible Christmas.
Talia laughs.
TALIA
Well, I promise you this Christmas
won't be anything like that.
SUMMMER (O.S.)
(filtered)
This is Summer Gleason with a
special news report.
Talia and Bruce turn to the TV. Behind Summer footage of
inmates being taken back to Arkham is shown.
SUMMMER
As many of you know last night was
a horrifying night for Gotham city
as there was a massive break out at
Arkham Asylum. Thankfully the
Gotham Police Department and with
help from the National Guard and
Batman all but two of the inmates
have been found. Those two being
Bane and Gotham's newest criminal
Mr. Zsasz.
(beat)
Bane has not yet been seen nor have
any of his previous antics have
been reported to police but sadly
this is not the case with Mr.
Zsasz. Behind Summer footage and
photographs are shown of the
murdered families or their houses.
SUMMMER
(filtered)
Julia Remarque from the Picture
News broke the story this morning
that an estimated twenty more
deaths have been put on Mr. Zsasz's
head count. Of course Commissioner
Gordon gave no comment on this
issue.
Bruce notices that Talia is transfixed on the TV and reaches
down and presses his watch making it go off.
BRUCE
Oh, shoot. I forgot I have to make
a phone call... I'll be right back.
TALIA
Bruce?
BRUCE
I'll be right back just stay here.
Bruce gets up and leaves the room. Talia watches Bruce leave
then turns her attention back to the TV.
SUMMMER
(filtered)
Once again Batman showed his worth
to Gotham City by apprehending
himself, Killer Croc, Man-Bat,
Clayface and Deadshot.
(beat)
Sadly we have no film of this but
we do have several eyewitness. One
of them even claims that the Batman
was injured.
A tape plasy from the scene of Batman fight with Killer Croc.
EYEWITNESS
(filtered)
Yeah, I saw the whole thing man.
Batman came up in this bad ass car.
And you know there has to be one
badass mother-(censored) driving
that car.
The film cuts to a later part of the interview.
EYEWITNESS
(filtered)
-- And he took Batman and threw him
through the window, man. Cut his
face all to hell, blood everywhere.
The whole side of his face cut up.
Talia looks behind her for Bruce: Wait a minute.
Talia starts putting everything together.
SUMMMER
(filtered)
Well, there you have it. We'll keep
you--
EXT. WAYNE MANOR - KITCHEN - THAT MOMENT
Bruce runs up to Alfred who is watching a small TV on the
counter.
BRUCE
Alfred. I got to go.
ALFRED
I understand, I will make an
excuse.
BRUCE
Thanks.
ALFRED
Sir, you're not planing to go out
in the day are you?
BRUCE
Looks like I'm going to have to.
ALFRED
You knew this day would come, sir
It's not like it was unexpected now
is it?
BRUCE
No, I guess you're right. It's a
lot easier to be the Bat at night
and Bruce Wayne during the day then
both at the same time.
ALFRED
I'm sure if anyone can pull it off
you can sir.
BRUCE
Thanks, Alfred. I guess right now
we're going to have to look for
Bane and Zsasz. At least we only
have two major problems on our
hands.
ALFRED
I believe another problem has just
sprung up.
Bruce turns to see Talia standing in the doorway. Alfred
walks up to Talia and smiles then nudges her towards Bruce.
ALFRED
(whispers)
Go on, dear.
Talia flashes a concerned smile at Alfred while Bruce angrily
turns towards the sink. Alfred leaves the two in the room.
TALIA
Love?
Talia walks up to Bruce and places her hand on his shoulder.
Bruce shakes it off.
TALIA
Bruce this doesn't change anything.
BRUCE
It doesn't?
TALIA
Not about the way I feel.
BRUCE
And how is that?
TALIA
The same way you feel about me.
We've only be around each other for
a short time but I know in my heart
that what we feel for each other is
true. Bruce I --
BRUCE
How do you know how I feel when I
don't even know who I am?
TALIA
What are you saying?
BRUCE
Batman or Bruce Wayne who am I?
TALIA
You're both.
BRUCE
No, no I can't be. One of us isn't
real and I don't know who it is.
Every moment I take vengeance I
want love and peace but when I get
that I want vengeance and justice;
it never ends.
(beat)
I killed the man who murdered my
parents and I thought it would end
there but it didn't. I gave the
city the signal that way Batman
would only come out when needed and
I could live a normal life but I
couldn't. I tried to step back but
all I could do is sit in the dark
waiting and waiting and waiting for
the signal and the longer I waited
the more I wanted it to call me.
(beat)
I want to be normal but I can't be.
TALIA
Bruce, I could have gone back home
at anytime but I stayed here... for
you. Because I want to be with you.
If you want some help I'm here,
I'll always be here for you. I have
not had a normal life either but
that doesn't mean that we shouldn't
try. I'm ready for one and I'm
willing to try and I want it to be
with you.
(beat)
I see that you want justice but I
also see you want love. The reason
why is because your love for the
innocent is more then your hatred
of the guilty. That's why you can't
stop.
(beat)
Love you may think that Batman was
born when you're parents were
murdered but I don't. Batman was
born when Bruce Wayne was born.
Batman is just the source where
Bruce Wayne shows his undying love
for Gotham in a way that only few
can understand.
Bruce considers this. Bruce then leans in and softly brushes
the side of Talia's face with his hand.
BRUCE
(whispers)
I'm sorry but you're wrong.
Bruce turns and leaves the room.
TALIA
No... no... Bruce.
Talia chases after Bruce to the --
INT. WAYNE MANOR - FIRST FLOOR HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
Bruce is nowhere to be found. Talia looks around then runs
into the --
INT. WAYNE MANOR - LIVING ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Talia runs ups to Alfred who is dusting.
TALIA
Alfred? Please... where is Bruce?
ALFRED
Saving Gotham.
CUT TO:
INT. BATCAVE - MORNING
The BATMOBILE starts up then peels out.
EXT. GOTHAM CITY POLICE HEADQUARTERS - GORDON'S OFFICE -
MORNING
MORNING
Gordon, Bullock and Montoya are
coming up with a plan.
GORDON
The way it looks Zsasz isn't
picking out his victims but
choosing them randomly.
Our early reports tell us that none
of the victims in Gotham had
anything to do with each other.
BULLOCK
Know what I think, Commish? I think
that since Bane and Zsasz are the
only ones left that they're
probably working together. I mean
they were both in Arkham right? And
everyone else has been picked up
but these two clowns.
GORDON
Sounds believable but Bane and
Zsasz are two different people.
Bane isn't a murdered like Zsasz
is.
MONTOYA
But they both hate Batman.
BULLOCK
Bingo.
GORDON
The enemy of my enemy is my friend?
BULLOCK
It's Batman's fault that Zsasz got
put in Arkham and even though
Batgirl and Robin put Bane in I'm
sure he counts Batman just as
responsible.
A DECTIVE runs into the room.
DECTIVE
Turn on the news!
Gordon turns on the TV. Summmer is giving a report. A LIVE
camera shot shows several blocks destroyed.
SUMMMER (V.O.)
(filtered)
This is the scene live right now on
West 42nd. Street in Gotham. This
looks like a war or a riot broke
out but several witness report that
the destruction was caused by none
other then Bane.
GORDON
Damn it! How the hell did he get a
hold of venom that quick?
MONTOYA
This must have been Zsasz's plan
all along. He must have found a
supplier before going into Arkham
and once there or during the
breakout he someone got in touch
with Bane --
GORDON
-- Slowly wear down Batman the
first night, then hit him hard the
next day by making him come out and
fight Bane, and from what it looks
like a stronger and more powerful
Bane.
BULLOCK
That will give Zsasz time to get
away or make killing the Bat a hell
of a lot easier for him.
MONTOYA
I don't know. It doesn't feel
right, there has to be something
more. Somebody inside Gotham had to
help him escape.
BULLOCK
Like who?
GORDON
Jeremiah Arkham.
Gordon leaves his office with Bullock and Montoya following.
INT. GOTHAM POLICE HEADQUARTERS - CONTINUOUS
Gordon marches through the room.
GORDON
I want a warrant for Jeremiah
Arkham as soon as you get it bust
him! In the meantime lets get Bane!
The room empties and follows Gordon down the stairs.
INT. BATCAVE - MORNING
Alfred heads down the steps of the Batcave with Talia
trailing along. Alfred gets to the Batcomputer and sits down
in the chair. Talia walks around in amazement. A police
report about West 42nd. Street comes up on the Batcomputer.
Alfred turns on the link to Batman.
INTERCUT AS NEEDED
ALFRED
There has been a report of Bane's
last location, sir.
BATMAN
Where?
ALFRED
West 42nd. Street.
BATMAN
Got it.
Batman FLOORS it.
EXT. WEST 42ND STREET - MORNING
The Police have blocked off the streets. Media and citizens
surround the area. Gordon, Bullock, and Montoya pull up and
get out of their cars. The street looks even worse in person
then it did on TV.
GORDON
Oh, man.
COP (O.S.)
Commissioner!
Gordon turns and sees a COP signaling him from one of the
trashed business.
GORDON
What is it officer?
COP
You better come and take a look at
this.
INT. TRASHED BUILDING - CONTINUOUS
Gordon heads into the trashed building.
COP
Over here, Commissioner.
Gordon and several officers follow the Cop through the
debris. The Cop points at one of the walls.
ANGLE ON - THE WALL, with a giant BAT LOGO made with DEAD
BATS nailed against it. Written in BLOOD in the middle of the
logo are two words:
CRIME ALLEY
GORDON
Crime alley?
Gordon's attention soon turns outside when he hears the
BATMOBILE pulling up.
GORDON (CONT'D)
Tell nobody about this, understand.
Gordon rushes out the door.
EXT. WEST 42ND STREET - CONTINUOUS
Gordon runs out the door in time to see Batman pulling up and
breaking through the police tape. The media try to rush him
but are held back by Police.
Batman pulls up in front of Gordon who quickly rushes to him.
Batman pops open the roof of the BATMOBILE. Gordon whispers
to him. The roof closes and Batman takes off.
Bullock runs to Gordon.
BULLOCK
Gordon what are you --
GORDON
Don't worry about it, Bullock. Let
Batman handle this.
BULLOCK
But, Commish --
GORDON
(sternly)
Bullock.
BULLOCK
Yes, sir.
INT. BATCAVE - MORNING
Alfred watches the news on the monitor with Talia.
INTERCUT AS NEEDED
BATMAN
They're at Crime Alley.
ALFRED
Crime Alley? Why on earth would
they be there, sir?
BATMAN
I don't know.
ALFRED
You don't believe that they know
what happed there do you, sir?
BATMAN
I don't know. Bane never showed any
interest in Bruce Wayne and neither
has Zsasz.
TALIA
He can't go there it's a trap.
ALFRED
He knows dear.
TALIA
But he's --
ALFRED
Dear... he's knows.
EXT. CRIME ALLEY - MORNING
Batman drives through CRIME ALLEY. What's in a name?
Everything with this Alley. Batman parks the BATMOBILE and
gets out. Batman quickly reaches into his UTILITY BELT and
pulls out his RADIO TRANSMITTER.
BATMAN
Shields.
CHROME-STEEL PLATES slide out from under the BATMOBILE
leaving it impenetrable.
Batman heads forward but stops as he sees a run down THEATER.
BANG! A Gunshot and a WOMAN'S VOICE rings through Batman's
head. BANG! Another shot rings out.
JOKER (V.O.)
You ever danced with the devil by
the pale moonlight?
The JOKER's maniacal laugh begins overpowering Batman's
thoughts. BANG! Another shot. The laughing gets louder.
LOUDER. Batman quickly shakes it off.
Silence.
BAM! Batman turns around and sees Bane standing on top of the
BATMOBILE like a skyscraper.
BATMAN
Get off my car.
BANE
What's wrong Bruce you don't like
sharing your toys?
BATMAN
What?
A door slams behind Batman. He only glances but it gives Bane
an opportunity and he takes it by throwing a kick at Batman's
face. Batman senses it and reaches out and grabs Bane's foot
and twists pulling Bane down onto the hood of the BATMOBILE.
Bane kicks him with his free leg. Batman tries to block it
but the power of the kick forces him back.
Bane leaps off the BATMOBILE headfirst but Batman side steps
him and WHACKS him in the back of the head sending Bane to
the street. Bane recovers faster then Batman can get a second
blow in and reaches out grabbing Batman by the leg and pulls
him off the ground. Bane hops up and grabs both of Batman's
legs and -WHAM!- swings him into the BATMOBILE.
Bane violently begins kicking the Dark Knight in the back not
letting up for a second.
BANE
Come on, Wayne! Come on!
Bane lifts Batman up by the neck then repeatedly SLAMS his
head onto the BATMOBILE. Batman elbows Bane in the stomach
but there's no effect. He tires it again. Nothing.
Bane wraps his giant hands around Batman's head and lifts him
up in the air and starts trying to crush Batman's skull.
Batman struggles and punches at Bane but nothing is working.
Batman reaches into his UTILITY BELT and pulls out a PLASTIC
MINI-TEST TUBE with BLUE FLUID inside and begins to shake
it.
Bane squeezes tighter. To tight. Batman drops the tube. It
cracks open on the street and starts bubbling like acid.
BANE
Is that it? No new toys from
WayneTech Bruce?
Batman swigs his leg back as far as he can then swings it
towards Bane. Bane throws his head back dogging the kick.
BANE
Missed.
Actually he didn't. Batman foot comes back down delivering an
ax kick right on Bane's chin dropping him to the ground.
Batman lands on his feet and drops to one knee holding his
head in pain. Bane did more damaged then feared.
Bane quickly starts to rise up. Batman hops onto Bane's back
and starts chocking him out. Bane slowly starts fading away.
Batman reaches back and grabs his RADIO TRANSMITTER.
BATMAN
Shields open.
Quickly the shields on the BATMOBILE opens up. Batman starts
leaning backwards towards the BATMOBILE with Bane's body
following. The roof of the BATMOBILE opens up and Batman puts
all of heart into it and falls back into the BATMOBILE with
Bane crashing down on top of him.
Batman squirms out from under Bane and hops out of the car
then squeezes Bane into the BATMOBILE.
BATMAN (CONT'D)
Shields.
The shields come back overtop of the BATMOBILE enclosing Bane
inside. Batman takes a quick breath then turns back around
and heads straight for the Theater.
EXT. BATCAVE - THAT MOMENT
Talia paces around nervously.
TALIA
What's taking so long?
ALFRED
Don't worry, Miss. al Ghul.
TALIA
Shouldn't he be talking to you
right now?
ALFRED
Not always.
The pacing continues this time we can see the frustration
building to a boiling point until finally --
TALIA
I'm sorry Alfred I have to go.
ALFRED
Ma'am, I implore you to stay here.
TALIA
I'm sorry I can't. I love him.
Talia heads towards the stairs and races up them. Alfred
cracks a smile.
INT. THEATER - LOBBY - THAT MOMENT
The most beautiful theater we've ever seen is before us in
ruins. A true highlight of Gotham architectural brilliance is
now layered in graffiti, rats, needles, and human waste --
bodily and otherwise.
With a look of disdain Batman enters through the rusted out
front doors. Even though the place is a wreck for some odd
reason Batman seem to look perfect in the picture before us.
Batman glides through the lobby looking carefully at every
makeshift house for homeless Gothamites and the beds for the
prostitutes who's names are scribbled onto the walls above
them.
Batman continues through the theater and sees a busted frame.
Batman takes a step forward and wipes off the dust and sees
inside is a poster for "THE MASK OF ZORRO".
BANG! Gunshots blast inside Batman's head. Batman grabs the
poster in rage and throws it onto the floor SHATTERING the
glass frame into pieces.
ZSASZ (O.S.)
Aww, I figured you'd wanted to keep
that for a family heirloom?
Batman swings around and sees a door leading to the MAIN
SCREEN closing.
INT. THEATER - MAIN SCREEN - MORNING
The Lobby's best day couldn't doesn't even compare to the
glory of Main Screening room -- even covered in trash and a
collapsing ceiling.
Batman opens the doors and finds Mr. Zsasz standing on the
stage.
ZSASZ
The Batman is here! Time for the
show begin.
BATMAN
You're going to jail.
ZSASZ
Me? Oh no Batman... or shall I say
Bruce Wayne. Bane filled me in on
you little identity. You see Bane
had a lot of time in Arkham and
away from Ivy he had time to do
some thinking... time to grow up.
Oh, and not to mention, the Riddler
regained his senses.
(beat)
I no doubt would have figured it
out sooner or later but Gotham
isn't my city so why should I
bother. But I must say - Magician
to Magician - you do a fabulous
disappearing act. And living two
lives at once. It's almost like
your practicing for marriage.
Batman starts towards Zsasz.
ZSASZ
Tell me, Batman. Don't you want to
know how it feels? Life flowing
from you're hands. The blood
beckoning the flesh to release it
into world. I'm releasing the
drones from their hell, Batman.
Batman leaps on top of the stage.
ZSASZ (CONT'D)
Even the babies are drones. That's
why I released them. I could have
done it while they where sleeping
but I made sure they were awake
that way they could feel the --
BAM! Batman DRILLS Zsasz with a right cross. The Batman
reaches down and grabs Zsasz by the collar and jerks him up.
Batman SLUGS him in the gut then throws him off the stage
into the front row with the seats buckling under him.
Zsasz struggles to stand as Batman jumps off the stage and
lands behind him. Batman grabs Zsasz by the shoulder and
SLAMS him back into the stage then nails his with a right
hand across the face. A left. A right. A knee into the gut. A
handful of hair then a knee lift to the chin sending a bloody
Zsasz back onto the floor.
Zsasz slowly rolls onto his stomach and starts dragging
himself away from Batman spitting blood.
ZSASZ
I thought you were one of the good
guys.
Zsasz rolls over onto his back and looks up at Batman.
ZSASZ
Superman wouldn't do this.
BATMAN
Superman's a pussy.
BAM! Batman kicks Zsasz square in the nuts. Zsasz howls in
pain.
INT. BATMOBILE - THAT MOMENT
Bane slowly starts coming to. Bane looks around then pushes
on the roof. Nothing. Pushes again. Nothing. Gives it another
try. Still nothing.
Bane reaches into his belt taking out patch after patch of
VENOM and starts slapping them on. Bane's head snaps back.
Muscles twitch violently. Veins start doubling in size.
EXT. CRIME ALLEY - CONTINUOUS
The roof and chrome-steel plates of the BATMOBILE starts to
rise up with a loud thud. Again. Again. Another. The final
blow sends the roof and shields flying into the sky as Bane
stands inside the BATMOBILE jacked up twice his normal size
and ready to kill -- Batman.
I/E. TALIA'S CAR - THAT MOMENT
Talia has reached the city and it's GRIDLOCK. Talia punches
the steering wheel then takes a left down the back alleys.
INT. THEATER - MAIN SCREEN - THAT MOMENT
Zsasz SLAMS down in front of us in worse shape then we left
him. Batman pulls one of Zsasz's arms behind his back and
starts slapping the BATCUFFS on him.
SMASH!
Batman turns to the sound coming from the lobby.
ZSASZ
Haha, hold long did you think that
car you had would hold him Batman?
The Venom he has now is twice as
powerful. And by the looks of you,
you've had a very long night with
my friends.
SMASH! The doors to MAIN SCREEN are RIPPED OFF the hinges as
Bane yells in power and fury.
Before Batman can finish cuffing Zsasz Bane throws one of the
doors towards the Batman SMASHING into the stage and just
narrowly missing Batman's head.
Zsasz turns over onto his stomach and kicks Batman in the
face allowing him time to escape. Batman kips up to his feet
only to block a theater seat flying towards his face. Another
one flies towards him and the Batman knocks it down.
Batman looks up and with the power of a charging bull Bane
tackles Batman sending both men CRASHING into the front of
the stage. Bane bursts up from inside the stage and reaches
down and grabs and Batman and FLINGS him over onto the stage
more then twenty feet.
Bane leaps onto the stage and charges Batman and begins a
serious beat down on Batman without a chance of a block
coming from him.
Batman lays on the stage floor then swings around and kicks
Bane in the shin. Bane stands motionless then grabs Batman
and throws him up against a wall in front of him and swings a
right hand. Batman ducks as Banes hand goes THROUGH the wall.
Bane shoves Batman against the wall with his free hand. Bane
pulls out his hand then gives Batman a right cross busting
his mouth. The Batman goes flying as Bane tosses him across
the stage.
BANE
You're not putting up a fight,
Batman. Batgirl fought better then
this.
Batman rolls over to his stomach grabs a small SYRINGE from
the UTILITY BELT. Bane walks over to Batman and lifts him
from behind. Batman turns around and STABS Bane in the chest
with it.
BANE
There's no antidote for Venom
Batman you're wasting your time.
BATMAN
It's not an antidote. It's a
stimulant.
Bane looks at Batman puzzled. Then groans in pain. Bane lets
go of Batman and grabs his heart. Bane starts to panic.
BANE
(weakly)
I'll... kill.
Bane SCREAMS then collapses. WHACK! Batman falls to the stage
as Zsasz stands over him with a 2x4.
ZSASZ
Good job!
WHACK! A shot to the back Batman's head.
ZSASZ
You figured out that his heart
didn't double in size so it was
working twice as hard --
WHACK! Another shot.
ZSASZ
Whenever he --
WHACK! Another shot.
ZSASZ
-- Used Venom. Let me guess you
waited out until he got so jacked
up that one shot would do him in,
huh?
Batman staggers up. Zsasz kicks Batman in the gut then throws
an uppercut with the board that hits it's mark sending the
Bat down.
Zsasz throws the board down and reaches into his jacket and
pulls out his KNIFE.
Batman lies motionless as Zsasz stalks his prey.
TALIA (O.S.)
Get away from him.
Zsasz turns to see Talia heading towards him.
ZSASZ
Excuse me?
Talia calmly reaches into her pocketbook and pulls out a GUN
and aims at Zsasz's head.
ZSASZ
(with a smile)
Doubt you'll shoot my dear. You're
far too sweet --
BANG! Zsasz drops to the stage with a bullet lodged in his
brain. Talia runs up onto the stage and drops to her knees
and consoles Batman.
BATMAN
Talia?
TALIA
Love.
BATMAN
What are you doing here?
TALIA
I love --
BANE (O.S.)
NO!
Bane jumps to his feet. Talia stares in shock. Bane knocks
Talia away and grabs Batman and holds him OVER HIS SHOULDERS.
Batman quickly reaches into his UTILITY BELT and take out his
BATGRAPPLE. Gives the hook slack and wraps it around Bane's
neck. The Grapple SHOOTS to the ceiling taking Bane with him
and goes through the ceiling and LOCKS in place.
The extra slack in the rope allows Bane a quick fall stopping
with a quick jolt. The ceiling cracks then COLLAPSE with Bane
crashing NECK FIRST. As the dust settles we see Bane... DEAD.
Batman fumbles over to Talia and helps her up.
BATMAN
Are you alright?
TALIA
Are you?
BATMAN
Yes.
TALIA
Then I am too, my love. Talia and
Batman embrace.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. WAYNE MANOR - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Alfred is dusting the furniture with the TV on. Alfred goes
to the large window and starts to close the curtains.
SUMMMER (O.S.)
(filtered)
-- Jeremiah Arkham is still in
custody.
Of course we promised you some red carpet treatment for the
end of tonight's broadcast for the Gotham City Orchestra
Spring Concert. Alfred stops and turns to the look at the
screen.
ANGLE ON - THE TV, as Bruce and Talia are dressed to the
miens and holding hands as they walk down a red carpet that
leads to a CONCERT HALL.
SUMMMER (CONT'D)
(filtered)
As we go to some outside shots we
see here Bruce Wayne and his
girlfriend Talia al Ghul making
their way down the red carpet.
ANGLE ON - ALFRED, smiling. Suddenly the BATSIGNAL shines
over Alfred's shoulder.
ANGLE ON - THE TV, as we see Bruce and Talia take one last
look to the sky and then head into the Concert Hall.
SUMMMER
(filtered)
Rumor has it that these two have
been an hot item now for nearly
three months and nothing seems to
be standing in the way of this
budding romance.
ANGLE ON - ALFRED, turning to close the curtain. He pauses
when he sees the BATSIGNAL. Alfred starts to walk off when
The phone rings. Alfred walks over and answer it.
ALFRED
Yes, Miss. al Ghul. Tell Master
Bruce I'm sending the car as we
speak. You take care too, dear.
CUT TO:
INT. BATCAVE - NIGHT
The engine to the BATMOBILE roars. Flames shoot out the back.
The BATMOBILE takes off.
EXT. WOODS - NIGHT
The BATSIGNAL shines brightly over the city as if knowing the
BATMOBILE is heading towards Gotham one more time to pick up
it's saviour. Batman: The Dark Knight.
FADE OUT.
THE END
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Script created with Final Draft by Final Draft, Inc.