SUPER HERO MOVIE

1
FADE IN:

INT. BILLY'S ROOM - DAY

STARTING CREDITS ROLL...

A moderately lit room. POSTERS of BATMAN on the walls. A CLOSET

with many PICTURES and STICKERS of Batman. An unmade BED.

A STUDY TABLE. PHOTO FRAME with a PHOTOGRAPH showing A

WOMAN with TWO BOYS. FIGURINES of various BATMAN CHARACTERS
placed side-by-side.

A bunch of BATMAN COMICS scattered on the floor.

INT. BILLY'S DINING ROOM - DAY

DINING TABLE. A PLATE of HALF-EATEN SANDWICH, CARTON of MILK

and some other stuff on it.

A BATMAN COMICS, held by in a young hand. Reader's face hidden

behind it.

BILLY'S MOM (V.O.)

Hurry up, Billy. You're late.

The hand puts the comics on the table. BILLY WEST (12) chews as fast
as he can. Gulps down a GLASS of MILK. Gets off the CHAIR. Picks up
his SCHOOLBAG. Rushes to the Exit Door.

BILLY
(Yells)
By mom!

EXT. PORCH, BILLY'S HOUSE - DAY

BILLY slams the door close. Picks up his BICYCLE. Straddles it.

2
EXT. A BUSY STREET - DAY

BILLY pushes the PADDLES of his BICYCLE. The WHEELS rotate faster
and faster. His JACKET flaps against the wind. The schoolbag bounces
on his back. He deftly steers the bike among the traffic.

Barely avoids a collision with one pedestrian crossing the street.

Takes the left turn and nearly barges into an incoming CAR. The vehicle
halts with a SCREECH. An ELDERLY MAN pokes his head out of the
window.

MAN
(Yells)
Billy West! I'm going to report to your
mom.

Almost out of earshot, BILLY shrugs but doesn't slow down.

EXT. OUTSIDE THE SCHOOL CAFETERIA - DAY

TOM RIDDLEY (28) stands with his back against the wall. Fists
clenched, face set with grim determination, eyes fixed on the unseen
enemy.

TOM
No more riddles, my friend. The game is
up. It's time to clean up the mess.

Takes a step forward. A bunch of wide-eyed kids get back a few steps.

TOM (CONT'D)
And just then, the huge glass window
shatters! It is none other than the -

Sound of metal CRASHING against metal. The kids and TOM look at the
direction. BILLY's bike lies on the ground, tangled with two other bikes.
The boy sits nearby, rattled but unhurt.

Everyone rushes to the spot. AARON WHITE (12) looks at the bikes
ruefully. TOM sits beside BILLY.

TOM (CONT'D)
Are you okay, Billy?

BILLY
I guess I am.

3
 TOM
Nothing broken?

BILLY
I don't think so.

AARON
Oh yes. There is something broken-My
brand new bike. Now dad's going to give
me a tough time.

BILLY stands up. Walks towards AARON.

BILLY
I'm sorry, Aaron. Didn't mean to make
this mess. It happened so fast that I just
couldn't control my bike.

AARON
Try explaining that to my dad.

AARON and BILLY pick up the bikes. TOM inspects them.

TOM
Whose bike is this? The yellow one?

BILLY
(Shrugs)
No idea.

Looks at AARON who has a sly grin on his face.

BILLY (CONT'D)
Oh no... don't say that it-

AARON's grin widens.

AARON
Dude, you've just earned yourself a date
with Miss Genius of Lake City School.

BILLY
Oh my god! Where is she?

AARON
Inside. She thinks Batman is boring. Said
she needed some neutron food or
something.

4
 TOM
The word is Nutritious ... Don't worry bout
the bikes, I'll fix them. But what made
you ride like a madman?

BILLY
I didn't want to miss the story.

TOM shakes his head disapprovingly.

TOM
This is no excuse for rash driving, Billy.
You could've hurt yourself or somebody
else badly. Besides, you've heard the
story at least ten times before.

BILLY picks up his schoolbag. Follows TOM and AARON who are heading
for the cafeteria.

BILLY
I thought it was the new one... Batman
against the joker.

AARON turns to BILLY.

AARON
That movie is not out yet, dummy!

BILLY
He doesn't need to watch the movie. And
stop being rude. I said I'm sorry.

AARON
You and your stupid ideas.

TOM
That's enough, boys. Like I said, I'll fix the
bikes. Now get in if you want to have a
bite and make it fast. You don't want to
be late for your class.

INT. CAFETERIA - DAY

Brightly lit cafeteria hall. Rows of TABLES, CHAIRS and BENCHES

arranged neatly on the squeaky clean floor. NICK CAMBER (38), the
cafeteria manager, sits behind the counter, nibbling a VEG BURGER.

5
TOM enters the place with BILLY and AARON. TOM heads for the
counter. The kids walk up to the table where JESSICA MILLER (11) sits.

BILLY
Hi Jess!

AARON
Guess what this moron just did!

JESSICA takes a sip of MILK. BILLY and AARON sit on the CHAIRS.

AARON (CONT'D)
He just crashed into my bike like a raging
bull. Smashed it awfully.

JESSICA
Billy West! How dare you ruin my bike!

BILLY
How did you know? You're not even
there.

JESSICA
My bike was parked right next to Aaron's.
If you hit his, mine would be hit too.
Doesn't take a Sherlock Holmes to figure
out.

AARON
Gosh, you are smart.

BILLY
Look, Jess. I'm really sorry. Tom would fix
it.

JESSICA
Do you know that even though only 1.8
Percent road crashes in US are collisions
with pedestrians and bicyclists, 13.5
Percent of them are fatal?

AARON
Wow... where did you get that from, Jess?

JESSICA

6
 I don't surf the net just to play silly
games. Anyway, what was the rush,
Billy? Didn't want to miss the history
class?

AARON
(Chuckles)
You've got to be kidding, Jess. He wanted
to hear the story.

JESSICA
Story?

AARON
Yeah. Batman. From the Dark Knight
himself.

JESSICA
Billy, you seriously need to grow up.

AARON
Man, how could you ever imagine that
Tom is Batman? It is so wacky.

BILLY remains silent.

JESSICA
Bruce Wayne is Batman. Everyone knows
it.

AARON
Exactly. Tom's got nothing to do with
Batman. It is Jane who-

BILLY
Oh come on! And you call me a wacko?

JESSICA
Cool down, boys. You need evidence to
support your claims. Otherwise, it all
comes to nothing.

BILLY
I know. And I will show you the evidence
once I get a chance to go through his
locker in the storeroom.

7
 AARON
He is going in there now.

The kids look at TOM. He takes a bunch of KEYS from NICK. Heads for
the CORRIDOR at the far end of the hall. Stops mid way. Turns towards
the kids. Winks. Disappears into the corridor.

AARON (CONT'D)
There is something strange about him,
that's for sure.

The Door of the cafeteria opens with a BANG. JERRY CARLIN (24) walks
in. Clad in LEATHER, Dark SUNGLASSES, RED BANDANA. A character
straight out of a biker gang movie.

CARLIN
Woohoo! Nice joint! Got to give it to
Lucky Luke. He's got taste.

NICK
Excuse me, sir. Can I help you?

CARLIN waves his hand. Swaggers towards the three kids. Drags a
CHAIR. Sits beside them.

AARON wrinkles his nose. JESSICA covers the lower part of her face
with a HANDKERCHIEF.

CARLIN
Is the food any good here?

No one replies.

CARLIN (CONT'D)
(Grins)
Not talking to strangers, eh? Smart kids.
But you will get to know me in time. I'm
gonna be a regular here.

TOM
(V.O.)
Leave the kids alone.

TOM stands behind. A TOOLBOX in his hand. Looks irked. CARLIN

surveys him from head to toe. Scorns.

CARLIN
And who are you?

8
 TOM
The same question I want to ask you.

CARLIN
The name is Carlin... Jerry Carlin. Now
beat it. I'm talking to the kids here.

TOM
Are you a parent?

CARLIN breaks into a laugh.

CARLIN
A parent? Sure! Only I forgot the name of
my boy. Or is it a girl? Damn! I just can't
remember.

Laughs. The kids stand up. Scared.

TOM
Mr. Carlin, I think you should leave.

CARLIN gets off the chair. Stands face-to-face with TOM.

CARLIN
Tough guy, aren't we? Well, I'll see how
tough you are once Lucky Luke hires this
place.

Strides towards the exit. Opens the door. Turns back.

CARLIN (CONT'D)
(Grins)
See you later, kids.

Points to TOM.

CARLIN (CONT'D)
We'll meet again soon, Mr. Hero.

Turns to open the door. Someone pushes the door from the outside. It
hits CARLIN on the nose.

CARLIN (CONT'D)
Eeeeeeouw! My nose!

Bends down. Covers his nose with hands. Two KIDS get in. Startled.

9
 KID #1
Sorry, mister. Didn't know you're
standing here.

CARLIN manages to get up. Throws a menacing glance at the kids.

Leaves the cafeteria.

BILLY
That was very brave of you, Tom, to
stand up against a guy like that.

AARON
Wonder if he had a shower in decades.
What did he say about Lucky Luke?

JESSICA
Said Luke is going to hire this place or
something.

TOM
Probably just trying to scare you kids. You
know such type. They don't have the
guts to face someone of their own size.

AARON
Anyway, I'm not afraid of Luke or his
men. Just let me join the Taiwan classes.

TOM
Taiwan?

BILLY
You're going to Taiwan to join classes?

AARON
Man, you talk really weird sometimes. It's
a form of combat... martial arts. Like
karate and-

JESSICA
The word is Taekwondo, not Taiwan.

AARON
Why you have to be so smart all the
times?

A Shrill BEEP. TOM looks at his WRIST-WATCH. The NUMBERS on the

DIAL FLASH.

10
 AARON (CONT'D)
A new one from Jane? She comes up with
some really freaking cool ideas. What's
with the beep?

TOM
It's an alarm to tell me that I should start
my work. You kids run along, it's almost
time for your class. Don't worry about the
bikes.

The kids pick up their schoolbags. Exit the cafeteria. TOM places the
KEYS on the counter.

TOM (CONT'D)
I'll need some pipes for that sink job in
the kitchen. Need to replace the -

Stops. NICK chews furiously the last remains of the burger. His face
sullen.

TOM (CONT'D)
What's the matter, Nick?

NICK
I just recalled who this Carlin is. Tom, that
man is nothing but trouble.

NICK gobbles down the burger. Reaches for another one. His hand
trembles.

TOM
Relax, Nick. Who is this Carlin?

NICK
Lucky Luke's right hand. Don't tell me
you don't know who Lucky Luke is.

TOM
I know who he is. Just don't know what
this Carlin guy was doing here. You
should report to Principal Stanton. And
Nick -

TOM takes the burger from the manager.

TOM (CONT'D)

11
 Stop stuffing yourself. This won't make
you feel any better.

NICK snatches the burger back from TOM. Pushes it all the way into his
mouth. Closes his eyes. Burps.

NICK
I don't know, Tom. But eating always
makes me feel better when I'm nervous.
And I won't deny that I'm a lot nervous
right now.

NICK reaches for the SHELF behind the counter. Pulls out a pack of
LAY'S CHIPS. TOM sighs. Picks up his TOOLBOX. Exits the cafeteria.

EXT. OUTSIDE THE SCHOOL CAFETERIA - DAY

TOM looks at the bikes with satisfaction. Wipes his hands with a piece
of CLOTH. Takes one bike. Straddles it awkwardly. Pushes the paddle.
The bike moves.

TOM
(Sings)
Bicycle, bicycle, bicycle.
I want to ride my bicycle
I want to ride my bike.
I want to ride it where I like.

KEVIN
(V.O.)
Learning to ride, Tom? Don't you think
you need a bigger bike at your age?

A chorus of LAUGHTER. TOM stops. Looks back. KEVIN WEST (16)

smiles at him. FIVE other boys, all dressed up in LAKE CITY BASEBALL
TEAM UNIFORM, stand beside KEVIN.

TOM
Hey Kevin. Just fixing Billy's bike.

KEVIN
Really? That's very nice of you. Here,
catch.

12
Throws a BALL at TOM. TOM positions himself to catch. The ball flies
towards TOM. Closer... and closer. TOM ducks at the last moment. The
ball whizzes past over his head.

TOM
(Grins)
Old trick, Kevin.

Sound of glass SHATTERING. TOM turns back. The ball rolls on the
ground beside a CAR with a broken window.

TOM (CONT'D)
Holy crap! Principal Stanton's car!

KEVIN
Why didn't you catch it, man? What were
you thinking?

TOM
Sorry... I thought it was a water balloon.
Didn't want to get wet.

KEVIN
Tom, Tom, Tom. You got to have more
faith in people. I'm not out to get you all
the time. I have better things to do than
to throw water balloons at you.

TOM
Yeah... you are right I guess. Now I'll have
to tell Mr. Stanton about his car.

KEVIN
Bad luck, man... Hey Tom, can you help
us with something?

TOM
Sure. What is it?

KEVIN
Well, the team needs more funds for
buying equipment and uniforms for the
upcoming games. So we've decided to
start a signature campaign.

Takes out a PAPER. Hands it to TOM.

13
 KEVIN (CONT'D)
We will collect as many signatures as we
can and submit this to the authorities.
Everyone should back the city team,
don't you think so?

TOM
Of course. Where do I sign?

KEVIN points to a blank space on the paper. TOM searches his BREAST
POCKET.

TOM (CONT'D)
Oh... I forgot my pen.

KEVIN
No Problemo. Hey guys, give him a pen,
will you?

One of the boys offers a PEN to TOM.

KEVIN (CONT'D)
Your contribution means a lot, Tom.
Thanks for signing.

TOM
No problemo.

Puts the pen on the paper. Jet of BLACK INK shoots from the back of the
pen. Splashes on TOM's face.

KEVIN and his team mates burst into a thunderous laughter. TOM wipes
his face with cloth. The ink spreads more. The laughs become louder.

KEVIN
Tom, oh Tom! Now it seems like you could
really do with a couple of water balloons
on your face.

TOM
Very smart, Kevin. Very smart indeed. But
there will be other times. And don't you
forget that.

KEVIN
I won't. But now I'll have to go. Come on
boys. Let’s check out what Camber’s got
for us. See you later, Tom.

14
KEVIN heads for the cafeteria with his team. TOM stands there, looking
at the boys. He wipes his face once more. A smile comes across his
face.

Looks back at the damaged car. Sighs.

TOM
Alright, Mr. Stanton. Get ready for some
bad news.

EXT. LAKE CITY SCHOOL - DAY

TOM appears at the entrance. Looks around. Sneaks inside, covering

his face with his toolbox.

INT. WASHROOM, LAKE CITY SCHOOL - DAY

TOM stands before a WASH BASIN. Examines his face in the MIRROR.
The DOOR opens and PRINCIPAL STANTON (47) walks in. Looks
agitated. Hair disheveled. SLEEVES rolled up high. Part of his SHIRT
tucked out of the TROUSER.

STANTON
Tom! Just the person I need. Come with
me. It's an emergency.

TOM
Mr. Stanton, there is something I-

STANTON
Later, Tom. I've a problem and you're the
man to deliver. Follow me.

STANTON heads for the exit.

TOM
Sir, it is really important that-

STANTON
Yes, yes. We will see to it later, whatever
it is. Now pick up your toolbox and come
to my office.

TOM follows STANTON.

15
INT. PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE - DAY

Tidy and aesthetically furnished office. A HIGH-BACK REVOLVING CHAIR

behind a large WOODEN DESK. A couple of visitor's CHAIRS on the
other side of the desk.

A huge WOODEN CABINET behind STANTON's chair. It is filled with

FILES, CARDBOARD BOXES and BOOKS. The solitary WINDOW of the
room is open. FLAG of USA stands beside the window.

STANTON reaches his desk.

STANTON
See?

TOM
No sir, I don't see anything unusual.

STANTON
The middle drawer, man! It is jammed. I
can't open it.

TOM
You lost the key?

STANTON
I have it. But it won't get in and open the
damn thing. My car keys are inside that
drawer.

TOM wipes the sweat off his forehead.

TOM
Sir, your car-

STANTON
I know, Tom.

TOM
You do?

STANTON
Well, It's my car and I know it better than
anybody else. The engine was making
some really horrible noises. But it's all
fixed now.

16
 TOM
Oh!

TOM takes out a SCREWDRIVER from his toolbox. Starts to work on the
drawer.

STANTON
And did you see the new glasses? I've
replaced the old ones with tinted,
weather-proof, ultra-violet ray resistant
glasses. Costs a lot but gives all-round
protection.

TOM freezes for a moment. Then resumes his work. STANTON looks at
his WRIST-WATCH.

STANTON (CONT'D)
I have to go to the dentist to pick up
Molly. But this damn thing...

With a heave, TOM pulls the drawer open.

STANTON (CONT'D)
Well done, Tom! Really well done.
Sometimes I wonder what would I do
without you.

TOM
Don't mention it, Sir.

STANTON grabs the CAR KEYS from the drawer. Hurries towards the
door. Stops.

STANTON
You had something important to say.
What's it?

TOM
That... Oh... Well-

STANTON
Hurry up, man! I don't have the time to
stand and chat.

TOM

17
 It's just that I need to buy some plumbing
pipes for repairing the cafeteria sink.

STANTON
Then go get them. I'll sign the requisition
form later... no, better do it now.

TOM takes out a PAPER from his tool box. Gives it to STANTON. The
Principal proceeds to sign the form. He scribbles on the paper. Once...
twice... shakes the pen impatiently.

STANTON (CONT'D)
What's wrong with me today? Everything
I touch stops working. Now this damn
pen-

Looks at TOM. Reaches for his breast pocket.

STANTON (CONT'D)
Lend me your pen, gentleman.

TOM
Wait! Mr. Stanton... No!

Too late. STANTON puts the pen on paper. TOM turns his face.

STANTON
Your pen isn't working either.

TOM turns towards the Principal. Relieved. STANTON shakes the pen. A
jet of black ink splashes on TOM's face.

STANTON (CONT'D)
Oh my god! I'm awfully sorry, Tom. Don't
know how that happened.

TOM
No Problemo, Mr. Stanton.

STANTON
You should replace this pen immediately.
Is it from Jane?

TOM
No sir. Kevin.

STANTON
I see. One of his latest pranks?

18
 TOM
It's alright, sir. He means no harm. Just an
energetic boy full of funny ideas.

STANTON
If you feel that way. Well, I must leave
now. Clean up yourself and get rid of that
pen.

TOM
I will sir. And sir-

STANTON
Is there anything else?

TOM
I must report to you that one of Luke
Hammond's men was in the cafeteria
today.

STANTON cups his chin with his palm. Frowns.

STANTON
I don't like this, Tom. Luke Hammond is
bad news. I don't know what his goon
was doing in there but I don't like this a
bit.

TOM
I know, sir. I told the guy to leave and he
did without making much fuss. But I think
we will see more of him.

STANTON
Keep your eyes open, will you? And
report to me if that fellow comes back.

TOM
Sure, Mr. Stanton.

STANTON exits the room. TOM Stands there for a while. Opens his
toolbox and takes out a piece of CLOTH. Wipes his face. Puts the cloth
on STANTON's desk.

Sound of incoming FOOTSTEPS. TOM looks at the door.

The door opens. It's STANTON. Sweating. Huffing. Staggers to his chair.
Collapses.

19
 TOM (CONT'D)
Mr. Stanton! Are you okay?

STANTON
(Stutters)
They are here!

TOM
Who?

STANTON
Luke Hammond and his men! They left
me a message. A warning!

TOM
A warning?

STANTON
They've shattered my new weather-proof,
ultra-violet ray resistant, tinted car
window to pieces!

TOM
Are you sure it was them?

STANTON
You said one of them was here. Who else
have the audacity to mess with my car?
It's them and I think we are in trouble.

TOM
Well... you may be right. But what do
they want?

STANTON gains his composure. Sits erect. Picks up the piece of cloth.
Moves it across his sweating face. Patches of black appear on various
spots of his face.

STANTON
I don't know but I intend to find out. I'm
calling the police. I won't stand
vandalism inside my school premises.

Reaches for the PHONE on his desk.

TOM

20
 Mr. Stanton... Wait.

STANTON looks at him quizzically. TOM takes the RECEIVER from his
hand and places it back on the CRADLE.

TOM (CONT'D)
Sir, we don't know for sure if Luke has
anything to do with your car. Don't you
think he will be in a bad mood if we call
the cops without any proof?

STANTON stares at the phone for some moments. Nods his head in
affirmative.

STANTON
I think you're right. There is no point in
disturbing the hornet's nest without a
good reason. What do you suggest, Tom?

TOM
Well, we should be on our guard. We can
always call the police if we see any more
signs of trouble.

STANTON
Right. That makes sense. Thanks Tom.

TOM
Like I said - No Problemo, Mr. Stanton.

STANTON
Well, I have to go to the dentist now. And
the auto-parts shop. We better not
discuss this incident with others.

TOM
Very well, Mr. Stanton.

STANTON gets up. TOM hesitantly points his fingers to the Principal's
face.

STANTON
What is it now, Tom?

TOM puts down his hand. Stands straight.

TOM
Nothing, Sir. Absolutely nothing.

21
STANTON leaves the room. TOM follows, with his toolbox

EXT. OUTSIDE THE SCHOOL CAFETERIA - DAY

Kids stand in groups. Talking. Laughing. Pushing. BILLY, AARON and

JESSICA stand beside their bikes. Inspect them.

AARON
Now this is what I call a great job. The
bikes look as good as new.

BILLY
You can always count on good old Tom to-

JESSICA
Clean up your mess.

BILLY
Don't start it again, Jess.

TOM
(V.O.)
Don't start what?

TOM walks up to them. Looks tired. Smiles.

BILLY
Had a busy day, Tom?

TOM
You bet. Now I just want Jane to come
and take me home. What were you kids
bickering about?

BILLY
Well, it can be settled if you help.

TOM
What is it?

BILLY
Tom, how come you know so much about
Batman? We all read the books and
watch the movies but you always seem
to have that extra info.

AARON

22
 The inside info. How do you get them?

A mysterious smile crosses TOM's face.

TOM
Have you guys ever heard of the term -
Trade Secret? Well, this is my trade
secret. And a secret won't remain a
secret if I tell it.

JESSICA
But is there a real Batman? Or the
answer is also a part of the trade secret?

TOM
Well, all I can say that-

His words drown in a loud HUM. A strange VEHICLE stops by. A FOUR
WHEELER but definitely not something common. More like the BAT-
MOBILE built on a PICK-UP VAN with a NUMBER PLATE and colored
FLASHING LIGHTS.

The window glass rolls down. JANE RIDDLEY (26) smiles and waves at
the kids. They wave back. AARON looks admiringly at the vehicle.

JANE
Hi Kids! Nice to see you all. Tom, hop in
quick. I need to get back home fast.

TOM
What's the rush?

JANE
I've left the SSG turned on.

TOM gets into the vehicle. Waves at the kids.

TOM
See you tomorrow, guys. Be good and
take care. Oh and Billy...

TOM takes the pen out of his pocket.

TOM (CONT'D)
Will you give this to your elder brother?
He left it with me.

BILLY takes the pen.

23
 TOM (CONT'D)
Be careful with it. It's a trick pen. Shoots
ink on you when you try to write with it.

BILLY
Kevin messed up with you again?

TOM
See you later, kids.

JANE starts the vehicle. It gains speed in seconds and soon goes out of
sight. BILLY looks at the pen.

BILLY
I hate Kevin.

AARON
Sorry, buddy. But it's Tom's fault too. He
shouldn't have encouraged Kevin so far. I
wonder why Tom never retallies?

JESSICA
Retaliates.

AARON
What?

JESSICA
Retaliates... that's the word you want.
Why don't you stick to simple words?

Three of them start to walk with their bikes. BILLY takes one more look
at the pen. Throws it. The pen lands somewhere in distance.

AARON
(Claps)
Way to go, Billy Boy.

The kids break into laughter.

EXT. STREET - NIGHT

Deserted street. Two men appear from distance. Arguing loudly. Stop
beneath a streetlight. One is CARLIN. Other is JONES (25), a friend of
CARLIN.

24
 CARLIN
Now look, Jones. It's no use grumbling
when you can't handle a simple job.

JONES
Bad luck. That's what it is. Bad luck is
following me. I can feel it.

CARLIN
Oh cut that crap! You messed up a job
and the boss is all pissed up. What luck's
got to do with it?

JONES
That's what worries me, man. I don't
want to be in Lucky Luke's bad book. Do
you think I should give him a gift or
something?

CARLIN
Not a bad idea. But you've got to be very
careful. Luke has a high taste. Expensive.
You think you can get something for him?

JONES nodes his head - No. Both men stand in silence. CARLIN looks
down. His eyes close in on something. Bends down. Picks up a shiny
thing. A pen.

JONES
What's it?

CARLIN
A pen. Looks like someone dropped it.

Examines it closely.

CARLIN (CONT'D)
An imported one, I guess. See the letters
here? Certainly not English. Made in
some other country, that's for sure.

JONES' eyes light up.

JONES
Carlin, do you think it'll be a good gift for
Luke?

CARLIN

25
 Well, why not? Boss likes all things
foreign... and this sure is not made by
Uncle Sam.

Gives the pen to JONES.

JONES
Thanks a lot, mate. Saved me some
money and my ass.

CARLIN
No worries. We're friends, remember?
Always stick together. Let's go and
celebrate. The bar is still open.

JONES
Again?

CARLIN
Yeah. This time, you pick up the tab.

JONES
Alright, just because you are a pal. Let's
go.

EXT. SUBURBAN AREA - NIGHT

Rows of HOUSES. VEHICLES parked outside. Couple of people walk by.

JANE's GoW parked near a GATE. A driveway leads to TOM's house.

Light coming out of the WINDOWS.

INT. LIVING ROOM, TOM'S HOUSE - NIGHT

The TV blares loudly. TOM sits on the couch, munching POPCORNS from
a BOWL. Eyes fixed on the screen. Bunch of BATMAN COMICS scattered
around him.

JANE enters the room. Glances at the TV. Then at TOM.

JANE
Tom, will you turn it off now? It's dinner
time already.

TOM

26
 Just a minute, honey. Don't want to miss
the climax.

JANE
You've seen this movie a thousand times.

With a sudden jerk, TOM sits straight. Looks at JANE.

JANE (CONT'D)
What?

TOM
Deja Vu.

JANE
What?

TOM
Well, not exactly Deja Vu but I said
something similar to young Billy this
morning - You've heard this story at least
ten times.

JANE sits on the couch.

JANE
You like that kid very much, don't you?
And he almost worships you. Don't know
why.

TOM
(Grins)
He thinks I am BATMAN. He is always
looking for a chance to go through my
locker and find some proof.

JANE starts to giggle.

JANE
No kidding?

TOM
No kidding. And if you think it's funny,
just wait till you know what Aaron thinks
of you.

JANE
Oh my god! Please, I don't want to know.

27
 TOM
I'll tell you anyway. He thinks that you
make the gadgets for Batman.

TOM makes a SHOOT-YOU gesture with his hand. They both break into
a laugh.

JANE
Tom, you shouldn't encourage this. They
are so young. Impressionable. I don't
want to see them in any kind of trouble.

TOM
Nah... It's alright. You get all sorts of
ideas and imaginations when you're a
kid. Secrets to find. Treasures to hunt for.
Wanes out as you grow up.

JANE
So Billy wants to find out the real
Batman. What do you want, Tom?

TOM
What do you mean?

JANE
Look around you, Tom. You're surrounded
by Batman. Everywhere. Kids believe
that you're him. Do you want to go on
pretending that there is some secret
about you?

TOM
You're taking it too seriously, honey. I just
want the kids to have a good time when
they're with me. That's all I want.

JANE
I know, Tom. You love the kids and they
love you. I just hope they don't stretch
their imagination too far.

TOM gets off the couch. Yawns.

TOM

28
 Don't worry, Mrs. Riddley. And now, can
we have that dinner please? I'm tired and
famished.

JANE
Alright, Caped Crusader. Take off your
cape and follow me to the kitchen.

They proceed to the exit.

TOM
Hey, do you think that the cape could be
used as a napkin?

INT. BASEMENT, TOM'S HOUSE - NIGHT

Cramped. Stuffed with CARDBOARD BOXES and SHELVES. One LARGE

DESK in the middle. On the desk is a COMPUTER MONITOR, displaying
a CIRCUIT-DIAGRAM.

JANE sits on a WOODEN STOOL by the desk. Examines a GADGET that

resembles a TOY GUN. Presses the TRIGGER. Nothing happens. She
turns to the Monitor.

TOM descends the stairs of the basement. He has a COFFEE MUG in his
hand.

TOM
Coffee time, Mrs. Riddley.

JANE
Put it on the desk please. I just need a
few minutes with this thing.

TOM
The Super something gun, isn't it? Any
success yet?

JANE
I'm on to something. Should work fine
after a couple of tweaks. Only, I don't
know how long it would take.

TOM
You can do it Jane. I know you will come
up with something. You just need to take

29
 some break. Don't push yourself too
hard.

JANE
I guess you are right.

Puts the gun on the desk. Picks up the coffee. Turns to TOM.

JANE (CONT'D)
So what's on your mind, Mr. Riddley?

TOM
What about camping out tonight? You
and me, in the wilderness. Surrounded by
the green, under the starlit sky.

JANE
Sounds like our backyard.

TOM
Brilliant, Mrs. Riddley! I have already put
up the all-weather inflatable tent house
out there.

JANE
Tom, it is inflatable.

TOM
Yeah, so?

JANE
So it needs to be inflated.

TOM
I'm no Homer Simpson, Mrs. Gadget. I
know the process. Green button to start
inflating, Red to stop. I started inflating it
before I went to make the coffee.

JANE
You pushed the Green button before you
went to make this coffee?

TOM
Yes ma'am. Old Tom thinks of everything
beforehand. By this time-

JANE

30
 We have the all weather inflatable Empire
State Building in our backyard. You need
to press -

TOM
The Red Button!

JANE
Exactly.

TOM
Holy crap!

TOM rushes for the stairs. A large BOOM! Stops dead in his tracks.
Looks at JANE with guilty eyes.

JANE
Good job, Homer!

TOM
Sorry.

EXT. BACKYARD, TOM'S HOUSE - NIGHT

TOM and JANE lay on the grass in SLEEPING BAGS.

TOM
Well, it is not exactly camping but still
something.

JANE
Oh it's wonderful, Tom. The stars, the
wind... It's a beautiful night to sleep out.

TOM
You are not mad at me, are you?

JANE
For what?

TOM
For blowing up the all weather inflatable
Tent house. I know how hard you worked
on that.

31
 JANE
This was not the first time. I've gotten
used to such small incidents.

TOM sighs. Stares at the stars. JANE looks at him.

JANE (CONT'D)
Don't feel so bad. I can make another
one of those.

TOM
And I'll probably blow that up too. Don't
know what's wrong with me. I mess up
everything even though I don't want to.

JANE
There's nothing wrong with you. You
mean no harm. And you know what? The
more you make those silly mistakes, the
more I love you.

TOM
What? You love me because I mess up
everything on a daily basis? That's weird,
you know.

JANE
What do you expect from a girl who
spends her time writing computer code
and fiddling with electronic gadgets?

TOM
Hey, that reminds me - what about that
computer game you're writing? Any luck
with that?

JANE
If only I can find money to continue that
project. But I'll never have that kind of
money.

TOM

32
 What if you sell one of your gadgets?
That Super Stun Gun for example? Won't
that fetch a lot of money?

JANE
You know what happened when I
demonstrated the GoW to that car
manufacturer. The damn vehicle just
came apart after I started it.

TOM
Yeah... That was embarrassing. But it
works fine every time you come to pick
me up from school. Or when we go
shopping. If only-

JANE
There are too many ifs in our lives. Isn't
there anything for sure?

TOM
My love for you. And vice-versa.

JANE smiles. Her eyes get sleepy.

JANE
Good night, Tom Riddley. Thank you for
loving me.

TOM
Good night, Jane Riddley. And no
problemo.

EXT. LAKE CITY SCHOOL - DAY

Kids and school staff getting in and out of the school. A CAR with
BLACK TINTED WINDOWS stands at the entrance.

INT. PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE - DAY

STANTON goes through a FILE on his desk. Picks up a PEN from the PEN
STAND. About to write something. Stops. Inspects the pen. Holds it at
length. Shakes it. Satisfied, returns to the file.

A KNOCK on the door. He looks up.

33
The Door opens. LUKE HAMMOND (35) steps in. Dressed like a
boardroom executive. An irritating smile on his face.

LUKE
Good morning, Mr. Stanton. Sorry I came
without an appointment.

LUKE takes the visitor's chair. STANTON looks at him with

apprehension. LUKE inspects the office.

LUKE (CONT'D)
You've got a nice place, Mr. Stanton.
Good for business.

STANTON
What can I do for you, Mr. Hammond?

LUKE takes out a CIGARETTE CASE from his pocket. Opens it and offers
to STANTON.

LUKE
Treasurer Black. World's most expensive
cigarette. Perfect for a business meeting.

STANTON
I don't smoke, Mr. Hammond. And you
won't either. This is a school.

LUKE
Ah, I forgot. Very sorry. You are right. We
should set proper example for the kids.

LUKE smiles and takes the case back. Closes it and puts it back in his
pocket.

STANTON
Now Mr. Hammond, if you could tell me
the purpose of your visit. I'm rather busy
this morning.

LUKE
Of course. You have so many
responsibilities. I will come straight to the
point. Mr. Stanton, I have a business
proposal for you.

STANTON looks flabbergasted. LUKE smiles, as if enjoying the

principal's discomfort.

34
 STANTON
What do you want, Mr. Hammond?

LUKE
Just one thing - your cooperation.

STANTON
I don't get it.

LUKE
You see Mr. Stanton, I'm a businessman. I
know people say bad things about me.
But I don't care. I do business and my
business is nobody's business.

STANTON listens in silence.

LUKE (CONT'D)
Now, I have a very important deal
coming up. I need a new... place for it. My
office - you know where it is, don't you?

STANTON nods affirmatively.

LUKE (CONT'D)
Well, people are jealous because I'm
successful and so they spread all kind of
nasty rumors about me. Now the cops
are snooping around my place -

STANTON
What all of this has got to do with me, Mr.
Hammond?

LUKE
I was thinking about hiring your...
premises for the deal.

The principal looks at LUKE in disbelief. Starts to speak. LUKE raises his
hand.

LUKE (CONT'D)
I know, I know, Mr. Stanton. You may
have heard the rumors about me. It is a
difficult situation for you. But-

35
LUKE stands up. With his hands in his pockets, he strolls towards the
window.

LUKE (CONT'D)
We all have to make choices in our life -
difficult choices. For you, the reputation
of your school is very important. But look
at those kids-

LUKE peers out of the window. Smiles. Walks back to his chair.
STANTON keeps his eyes fixed on this unwelcome visitor.

LUKE (CONT'D)
You've to think about the kids too, Mr.
Stanton. All of those nice, happy,
innocent children. They are your
responsibility.

STANTON
Are you threatening me?

LUKE
I wouldn't dream of doing that! All I'm
offering is a proposal. You let me use this
place for my deal and I'd make it sure
that none of your students come to any
harm. It's a fair deal.

STANTON
I'm sorry, Mr. Hammond. But I can't
possibly accept your offer. Now if you
would just leave this office. I have work
to do.

LUKE's face hardens. The smile vanishes. He leans on the desk, looking
straight into STANTON's eyes.

LUKE
You don't get it, Mr. Principal. It is not a
question of what you want. It is what you
care about more - your reputation or your
kids.

For a moment, they stare at each other. Then the smile returns on
LUKE's face.

LUKE (CONT'D)

36
 Relax. I'm not going to stay here forever.
Hated school when I was a kid. Never
finished it.
(Beat)
Just let me close my deal and I'll be gone.
Nobody has to know anything.

STANTON
But-

LUKE
You are a wise man, Mr. Stanton. Do I
need to remind you that this
conversation is highly... confidential?
None of it goes out.

LUKE takes out the cigarette case, opens it and picks up one cigarette.

LUKE (CONT'D)
You don't have a light, I suppose?

STANTON glares, seems like he is about to burst. The mobster

chuckles.

LUKE (CONT'D)
Come on old man! Don't be so grumpy.
This closed place is getting on you. You
should go out more.

Still chuckling, LUKE exits the room. STANTON stares at the door.
Slumps back into his chair. Closes his eyes.

(Moments later)

A KNOCK on the door. STANTON springs to his feet.

Ms. PALMER (40) walks in. Annoyed. Has a bundle of BOOKS in her
hand.

STANTON
Gosh! You gave me a jolt. What's it, Ms.
Palmer?

PALMER
I won't stand it, Mr. Stanton. I certainly
won't.

STANTON

37
 As you wish, Ms. Palmer.

Acts busy. Picks up a FILE and starts turning the pages.

PALMER
Don't try to avoid me, Mr. Stanton.

Ms. PALMER throws the bundle on the desk. BATMAN comics. Seven of
them lie scattered on the desk. STANTON looks quizzically at her.

PALMER (CONT'D)
I don't know what this school is coming
to. Students reading these... these
disgusting picture books in my class!
Horrible.

STANTON picks up a comic. Looks at the cover. Flips some pages. A

faint smile. Amused. Flips some more pages.

Ms. PALMER glares at him.

PALMER (CONT'D)
Well, Mr. Stanton?

STANTON
What... oh... yes. You are right, Ms.
Palmer. We can't allow such behavior. I'll
now confiscate these... disgusting picture
books. They'll remain in my custody.

PALMER
And?

STANTON
And thank you very much for bringing
this offense to my notice. You can leave
now.

PALMER
What about the offenders?

STANTON
Offen... Oh yes. They must be
reprimanded. Who are they?

PALMER
Billy West and Aaron White.

38
 STANTON
I see. Well, tell them that they won't get
their books back before next week.

PALMER
That's all? That's how you intend to teach
discipline to the young kids?

STANTON
I know Ms. Palmer. But now that the
government has ordered to shut down
the Guantanamo Bay-

PALMER
Mr. Stanton!

STANTON
Oh very well! What do you suggest?

PALMER
Prohibit them from participating in the
school annual function.

STANTON
But Ms. Palmer! Don't you think that's too
harsh? The boys are working very hard
for that play and-

PALMER
That's my point. The punishment would
teach them that they can't have what
they want without some discipline in life.
You need to be stern for their good.

STANTON
If you just-

PALMER
I'll inform them of their punishment right
now, Mr. Stanton.

Storms out of the room. SLAMS the door. STANTON stares at the door.
Shakes his head. Picks up a comic. Slouches back on his chair. Starts
reading.

EXT. OUTSIDE THE SCHOOL CAFETERIA - DAY

39
BILLY, AARON and JESSICA sit beside their bikes. Silent. Heads down.

FOOTSTEPS. TOM approaches them. Looks grim.

BILLY
Well, Tom?

TOM shakes his head.

TOM
Sorry, boys. I've talked to Ms. Palmer but
she won't budge. Even Mr. Stanton is
helpless. Seems like I'll have to find your
replacements.

The boys look crestfallen.

AARON
All this just for looking at some comics?
It's not fair at all.

TOM
You're wrong, Aaron. You can't justify
reading Batman in your class, no matter
what you say.

AARON
But we prepared so hard for the play! I
practice the dialogs even in my sleep.
Now all we'd do is sit in the audience and
clap.

TOM
I know it's hard, boys. But there really
isn't anything I can do.

They all remain silent for a while. BILLY stands up. Takes his bike.

BILLY
Then I guess we'll have to find something
better to do than just sit and clap. See
you later, guys.

Jumps on his bike. Paddles away along the street.

40
 AARON
Now what has gotten into him?

JESSICA
Depression.

TOM frowns. Looks at BILLY riding away. The kid takes a turn.
Disappears.

TOM
(Mutters)
Got to keep an eye on him.
(Loudly)
It's getting late. You kids better get
going. Jane will be here soon to pick me
up.

INT. BASEMENT, TOM'S HOUSE - NIGHT

JANE stands near the desk. Holds the Super Stun Gun or SSG in her
hand. Adjusts a few KNOBS on it.

TOM fiddles with the computer monitor.

JANE
Tom, attack me.

TOM
Attack you? What for?

JANE
Not real attack, Tom. Just pretend. I'm
testing the SSG.

TOM
I see. Okay.

TOM makes a fierce face.

TOM (CONT'D)
You've asked for it. Here I come!

Lunges towards JANE. She aims the SSG. Pulls the TRIGGER! The gun
makes a strange MECHANICAL sound. GRRRRR... Then two
ELECTRONIC BEEPS.

41
TOM staggers on his feet. Looks at JANE. Wide eyed. Sways from side
to side.

JANE
Oh my god! Tom, are you okay?

TOM
Jane...

Collapses on the floor. JANE rushes to him. Sits by his side. TOM looks
at her with misty eyes. He sees THREE of everything, including JANE.

TOM (CONT'D)
Three... against... one. Not... fair.

JANE inspects the gun that is still in her hand.

JANE
Oh no! The Stun meter's set to max! Poor
Tom.

Pushes the gun away. Takes his head in her lap.

JANE (CONT'D)
It'll be alright, honey. You just need to
rest. I'm here. Everything will be okay... I
love you.

TOM smiles. Droopy eyes

TOM
Really? All... three of you?

Passes out. JANE sits there. Concerned. TOM opens his eyes.

TOM (CONT'D)
Girls... can I've some... coffee please?

Passes out again.

INT. LIVING ROOM, TOM'S HOUSE - DAY

TOM opens his eyes. Morning light, coming through the window, shines
on his face. He is on the couch. Winces. Holds his head in hands.

42
JANE enters the room. Has a COFFEE MUG in her hand.

JANE
Morning, Dark Knight. Feeling better?

TOM
My eyes are doing a shimmy... and my
head feels like a railroad engine gone
crazy.

JANE sits beside TOM. Gives the coffee to him. TOM takes it and puts it
on the SIDE TABLE.

JANE
Drink it. And don’t worry about the after
effects. They'll just go away. But you
should rest today.

TOM
No rest for me today. Have to fix the
kitchen sink at the school cafe.

JANE
Can't you put it off till tomorrow?

TOM
Nope. The place is in a mess. Just enough
time to have this coffee, get dressed, and
then I'll be off to work.

Reaches out for the coffee mug. Freezes. Stands up. Stares hard at the
mug. JANE notices.

JANE
What's it, Tom?

TOM
(Points at the mug)
I see three of them.

JANE
Oh my god! Must be the shock. Do you
see three of everything?

TOM takes a look around. Shakes his head.

TOM
No, just this mug.

43
 JANE
I think the SSG has some weird after
effects. Are you sure you can go to work
today?

TOM
Just tell me which one is real. I guess a
good coffee will help.

JANE takes the mug. Hands it to TOM. He drinks it. Grunts.

TOM (CONT'D)
Feels good. Now I must be on my way.

JANE
You be careful. I'll pick you up early
today. You need rest.

They kiss. TOM heads for the shower. JANE exits to the kitchen.

EXT. A BUSY STREET - DAY

TOM jogs on the sidewalk. Couple of PLUMBING PIPES and Toolbox in

his hand. Greets a few pedestrians. Speed increases.

Halts. Blocking the path ahead are three identical, large, GREEN METAL
DUMPSTERS.

A WOMAN with a large BAG stands beside them

KEVIN comes riding a SKATEBOARD. Stops by TOM.

KEVIN
Hey, Tom! How are you doing?

TOM
Just fine. Kevin, you see the dumpster
over there?

KEVIN
Yes.

TOM
I know there used to be only one here.
But now I see three.

44
KEVIN looks interested.

KEVIN
Really?

TOM
Yep. It's an after effect from one of Jane's
gadgets. Sometimes, I start to see things
in triplicates.

KEVIN
No kidding?

TOM
Nope.

KEVIN
Weird.

TOM
But I'd feel like a fool if I try to get around
them. Like people do when they are high
on booze.

KEVIN
Yeah. Specially with that lady standing
there. She'd think you are drunk or
something.

TOM
Can you tell me which one is real? I will
just jog past that.

KEVIN
Sure, pal. Anything for you. You see three
dumpsters, right?

TOM
Right. Three... side by side.

KEVIN
Okay. Look at my hand. Avoid the one my
hand is pointing to. That is the real one.

TOM
Thanks a lot, buddy. You're a real help.

KEVIN

45
 No problemo, Tom.

TOM
Why do I feel something bad is going to
happen when you say that?

KEVIN
When I say what?

TOM
Never mind. Thanks for the help. Have to
rush now. See you.

TOM rushes forward. Carefully avoids the right side.

BANG! CRASHES into the Dumpster! Tangles with the pipes! Takes a
dive inside the open trash box.

The WOMAN shrieks.

KEVIN laughs. Pushes the skateboard.

KEVIN
So long, Tom! Nice dive.

Gone.

TOM gets out of the dumpster. Covered with all sorts of trash. Looks
around. Meets the gaze of the WOMAN. She wrinkles her nose. Steps
back.

WOMAN
Are you crazy or something?

TOM
Lady, can you do me a favor? How many
dumpsters are here?

WOMAN
Three. Shame that you can't even count
at your age.

INT. CAFETERIA - DAY

46
NICK pours KETCHUP on a BERGER. Crashes some CHIPS in his fist.
Spreads them over the burger. Looks happy.

TOM walks in. Battered. Almost staggering.

NICK
What's up Tom? Man... You are stinking
like garbage.

TOM
Got any Aspirin, Nick? My head is about
to burst. And I need to clean up.

NICK
Not feeling well?

TOM
Totally knocked out. Don't think I can do
that sink job today.

NICK
No worries. It can wait.

TOM
Thanks. I'll put the pipes in the store
room. Get me some aspirin and milk, will
you?

NICK
Sure thing.

TOM heads for the corridor. NICK munches the burger. Relishes. Eyes
half shut.

CARLIN (V.O.)
Hi ho! Barman!

NICK chokes on the burger.

CARLIN and JONES stand at the counter. NICK's face turns pale.

CARLIN (CONT'D)
Barman, meet Jones. Jones, meet
Barman... I mean the Milkman.

The goons break into a laugh.

47
 CARLIN (CONT'D)
(To Nick)
Now that Lucky Luke has decided to stay
here for a while, we're gonna be like
regulars here.

They settle down in chairs. Look around.

CARLIN (CONT'D)
Hey, where are the kids? This is a school,
right? I don't see any students around
here.

NICK remains silent. JONES chuckles.

JONES
Must be in classes. Don't you remember
school? Long and boring classes with
boring books and boring teachers. How
we hated them!

CARLIN
Ah yes, the school. The memories. Bad
once, mostly, but still...

The door opens once more. KEVIN and his team mates walk in. All look
tired. Uniforms drenched in sweat.

KEVIN
Hey Nick! Can you-

Follows NICK's gaze. Notices CARLIN and JONES. They look at the boys
in amusement.

CARLIN
Holla, Captain! Winning the league? Sit
down and have drink. Hey Milkman! Give
the boys something to cheer up!

KEVIN and his friends take seats near the counter. Keep their eyes on
the goons.

BOY #1
What the hell they're doing here?

NICK
I don't know but you better be careful
with them, boys.

48
JONES AND CARLIN discuss something. Low voice. CARLIN stands up.
Walks up to the boys.

CARLIN
Want to make some quick money, boys? I
have an offer for you.

No one replies. CARLIN picks up the BASEBALL BAT. Swings it in the air
a couple of times.

Picks up the BALL from the table.

CARLIN (CONT'D)
Hey, Jonesy! Watch me hit a home run.

Tosses the ball in the air. Swings the bat. Misses completely. The ball
lands on his nose.

CARLIN (CONT'D)
Eeeeeouw!

Throws the bat on the floor. In pain. Looks at the boys who are
suppressing their grins.

CARLIN (CONT'D)
Out of practice. Anyway, don't you think
you're wasting time hitting a ball with
this stick all day long? Why not work with
us? You can make loads of cash.

KEVIN
Are you finished?

CARLIN
Think about it. You'll be Luke's army. No
one in Lake City would dare to mess with
you.

NICK
Mr. Carlin, please. This is not-

CARLIN
Shut up, milkman. I'm talking business
with the boys.

TOM (V.O.)
You have no business here, Carlin.

49
CARLIN turns. TOM stands with his toolbox. Glares at the gangster.
NICK gobbles up the burger. KEVIN and the boys just sit still.

CARLIN
Ah... I forgot. The hero. Hey, Jones! Meet
Mr. Hero here.

JONES walks up to them. Takes a look at TOM. Scoffs.

JONES
Looks more like a handyman to me. A
stinking handyman.

Roar of laughter from CARLIN and JONES.

CARLIN
Well, Mr. Hero... We do have business
here. My boss has an agreement with
your boss. We are hiring this place.

TOM looks at NICK, puzzled.

TOM
(To Nick)
Mr. Stanton's agreed to rent this place to
Lucky Luke?

NICK stays stiff. One of the boys gets off the chair. Slips out of the cafe.
No one notices.

CARLIN
(To Tom)
Yes sir.

TOM
I don't believe this. Now, are you gents
going out on your own or should I dial the
cops?

JONES steps forward. Face to face with TOM. Their eyes lock. NICK
drops the burger. KEVIN and his team mates stand up.

CARLIN holds JONES by the shoulder.

CARLIN

50
 Not now, Jones, not now. We don't want
trouble before Lucky Luke himself comes
and takes over.

JONES steps back. Still glaring. TOM never flinches.

CARLIN (CONT'D)
(To Jones)
Lets leave... for now.
(To Tom)
This is not the end, my Hero. We'll meet
again.

TOM
I'll be waiting, right here, Mr. Carlin. Now
just leave.

CARLIN and JONES leave. TOM stands there, still glaring. KEVIN's friend
enters. Out of breath.

BOY #1
Tom, Mr. Stanton wants to see you, right
now.

TOM nods. Strides out of the cafeteria.

BOY #1 (CONT'D)
Is it alright here? Are they gone?

KEVIN
Yeah. Chickened out. Tom scared the
heck out of them.

NICK
That was a very foolish thing to do. I
don't like this. They'll be back for sure.

Glum, worried faces. No one speaks. NICK picks another BURGER.

KEVIN
You've got to give it to Tom. The man has
some guts though he hardly shows it.

INT. PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE - DAY

51
TOM stands before Principal STANTON. Irritated. His toolbox sits on the
desk.

TOM
So you're saying that those... those
gangsters are going to take over the -

STANTON
It's nothing like that. Nobody is taking
over anything. It's just an arrangement.

TOM
Arrangement?

STANTON
Yes. A temporary one. They're not going
to stick here forever.

TOM smiles. Sarcastic.

TOM
I see. So now we are renting the school.
Great idea, sir. Should I place a notice
outside? Place for rent. Easy terms. Blah
blah...

STANTON looks hurt. Shakes his head.

STANTON
You don't understand it, Tom!

TOM
Then make me understand, Mr. Stanton.
How do you justify this... arrangement?

STANTON
(Sighs)
Tom... very well. I'll tell you everything.
Then you tell me if what I'm doing is
wrong.

Gets off the chair. Walks to the window. Stares outside. Both men
remain silent for a while.

STANTON (CONT'D)
Some days back, Lucky Luke came to my
office. He told... threatened me that if I

52
 don't agree to this deal, he'd do
something bad... to the kids.

TOM
What? And you didn't call the cops?

STANTON walks up to TOM. Looks straight into his eyes.

STANTON
You tell me, Tom. What would you have
done? Inform the police and put the kids
in danger?

TOM lowers his eyes. Remains silent. STANTON gently pats him on
shoulder.

STANTON (CONT'D)
I understand your concern... And I share
it as well. But right now, it won't be wise
to inform the cops.

TOM
But we can't let this go on! You know
these guys. They won't just pack and
leave even after this deal.

STANTON
I know. And I have a plan. There will be a
vacation after the annual function. The
kids won't be here. That's when I intend
to take action.

TOM
I don't know, sir. I hope you are right. For
the sake of the school.

STANTON
I know how much you care for the school.
I appreciate that. But, the school is
nothing without the kids. We have to
think of them.

TOM
You are right on this one, sir.

STANTON
(Smiles)

53
 Ah! At least something we both agree on.

TOM
What do you suggest we do now?

STANTON
Nothing. Keep low. Don't mess with them.
And try to keep the children out of this.

TOM
I will, sir.

STANTON
Thanks, Tom. I know I can count on you.

Worried, TOM leaves the office. STANTON walks up to the window.

Looks outside. Frowns.

EXT. OUTSIDE THE SCHOOL CAFETERIA - DAY

BILLY and AARON sit on the grass. SCHOOLBAGS sprawling next to

them. BILLY goes through a BOOK. AARON sketches something on a
piece of paper.

TOM approaches them. Cheerful.

TOM
Hey boys!

BILLY
Tom! Kevin told us that you took on
Luke's men!

AARON
Yeah! Must have been a great scene to
watch. Wish I could be there.

TOM sits beside them. Takes out a couple of CHOCOLATE BARS. Gives
them to the kids.

TOM
What else did he tell you? There was
nothing of that kind, boys. It was just
some tough talking, that's all.

BILLY

54
 Well, not many in this town have the
courage to stand up against them, you
know.

JANE (V.O.)
Hey, but he is a super hero. Don't you
guys know it yet?

TOM and the kids look back. JANE stands there. Annoyed. The GoW is
parked at a distance.

TOM
Hey Jane, you are early. Never heard that
vehicle. New silencer?

JANE
I thought I was going to pick up a man
who was not able to walk straight this
morning. But hey presto! I came to find a
super hero who takes on gangsters face
to face.

TOM
Have you met Kevin?

JANE
I didn't need to. Many seem to be talking
about your heroics.

TOM
Damn. That kid is a real pain in the... But
it was nothing like you've heard, honey.
Just a small argument.

JANE
Really? And don't you know that small
arguments snowball into big fights?

TOM stands up. The boys look on in silence.

TOM
Oh come on! They were harassing Nick
and Kevin and the other boys. I just tried
to stop them.

JANE

55
 Oh! Never knew that you're the new town
sheriff!

TOM
Stop this, Jane!

JANE
No I won't. You've no idea what you're
getting into. All those Batman books and
movies... You think you're some kind of
super hero, don't you?

TOM
They were harassing the people in there!
Do you hear that? Hello? What I was
supposed to do, stand and clap?

The kids look terrified now. BILLY closes his book. The paper slips out of
AARON's hand.

JANE
You could've called the cops, like a
normal, average, sane person would do.
But then, you are not normal, are you?
You're the hero... Super hero. Go ahead
and pick your fights. Save the town. Save
the world. Save this doggone universe,
Tom Riddley!

Turns back. Gets into the GoW. Starts the engine. TOM rushes to the
vehicle. It starts to move.

TOM
Hey! What about me? You're supposed to
pick me up!

JANE rolls down the window glass. Sticks her head out.

JANE
Use your super powers to fly home. Won't
it feel good when people look up and yell
- is it a bird? Is it a plane? Oh! It is Tom
Riddley!

The GoW roars. Speeds up. Disappears down the road. TOM looks on.
Shocked. Shakes his head.

56
The kids look shocked as well. Speechless.

TOM
(Mutters)
Now what's wrong with her today?

AARON
Boy! I've never seen Jane so much pissed
off.

BILLY
Tom?

TOM looks at the terrified kids. Gives an Assuring smile.

TOM
Don't worry, kids. She'll be alright. She is
just a little mad at this moment.

AARON
And that is an understatement.

EXT. SUBURBAN AREA - NIGHT

TOM stands in front of his house. Looks at the GoW parked nearby.
Pushes the GATE. Slowly, traverses the driveway. Reaches the front
door. Stands there for a while. Presses the doorbell.

Waits. No one comes. Presses again.

Still no reply.

Pushes the door. It's unlocked. Steps inside.

INT. BASEMENT, TOM'S HOUSE - NIGHT

JANE sits by her work desk. Eyebrows frowned. Holds a soldering rod.
The SSG lies on the desk.

TOM descends the stairs. Looks at JANE. Coughs. JANE doesn't move.

TOM
Don't you think it is a bit dark in here? I'll
add some more fluorescent bulbs. Think
we have some around here.

57
No response. JANE continues her work.

TOM (CONT'D)
Still mad at me?

No reply.

TOM (CONT'D)
Jane, look. I know what I did was... stupid.
Maybe. But I did what I felt was right.

JANE
(Coldly)
What you do is none of my concern. You
are big enough to take care of yourself.
You don't need me.

TOM shakes his head. Resigned. Looks around. The place is full of
GADGETS. He inspects one of them.

A LARGE RECTANGULAR BOX. KNOBS and DIALS on it. A LONG

MECHANICAL ARM, fitted with a BRUSH at its end.

TOM adjusts the DIALS. Not really looking at them. Presses a BUTTON.
A low HUM. CLANKING sound. The gadget comes to life!

JANE looks up. Startled. TOM tries to get away. Too late!

The machine sprays WATER on TOM. Next moment, a STICKY,

GREENISH LIQUID splashes on his face. TOM makes a GURGLING
sound. BUBBLES come out of his mouth.

The Mechanical brush starts to move across his face. Up and down. Left
and right. TOM tries to fend it away.

JANE rushes to rescue. Pulls a PLUG off the wall. The machine comes to
a stop. TOM stands there. Wet from head to toe. A stupid grin on his
face.

JANE (CONT'D)
Can't you do anything without messing it
up?

TOM
You said you love me this way.

JANE stares hard at him. Her face contorts. Breaks into laughter. TOM
joins her. She comes to him. Takes him in her arms.

58
 JANE
Oh Tom! You stupid stupid man!

TOM
Hey! You'll get wet.

JANE
I don't mind.

TOM
Would you mind if I ask for something to
eat?

JANE
Nope, as long as you cook.

TOM
What?

JANE
(Giggles)
Change the clothes. I'll make something
for you.

EXT. BACKYARD, TOM'S HOUSE - NIGHT

TOM and JANE sit on LOUNGE CHAIRS. Holding hands. TOM looks at the
sky. JANE has the SSG lying on her lap.

TOM
That was a great, Jane. And the desert
was the best.

JANE
Huh? I didn't make any desert.

TOM
I mean that kiss you gave me. Can I have
some more deserts, please?

JANE
Too much sweet could be harmful. Still, I
think you deserve one.

59
They engage in a long kiss.

JANE (CONT'D)
I'm sorry, Tom.

TOM
For what?

JANE
For all the things I've said. I don't know
what made me mad like that but-

TOM
Love.

JANE
What?

TOM
Love... that's what made you go blazing
all guns.

JANE
I was worried, Tom. And scared. When the
man at the store told me how you took
on Luke's men-

TOM
Honey, I don't know what Kevin's told
everyone but it's not even close to the
reality. All I had was an argument with
those guys. A very small, insignificant
argument.

JANE
They are dangerous, Tom. And ruthless.
They won't stop at anything if they feel
that you're a threat to them.

TOM
I know. But I just can't sit and look on
while they go on terrorizing the kids...
you know that I won't stand for that.

60
 JANE
I know. But -

TOM takes her hand. Holds it firmly. Kisses it.

TOM
Honey, I promise that I won't do anything
to hurt you. Never.

JANE
Just be careful with them, Tom. That's all I
want.

They sit there. Hand in hand. Gazing at the sky which is darkening now.
Stars start appearing one by one.

EXT. OUTSIDE THE SCHOOL CAFETERIA - DAY

TOM approaches the cafeteria. The place looks deserted. Just a handful
of kids. BILLY, AARON and JESSICA sit on the stairs.

TOM
Hey kids! What's up?

BILLY
Not much.

TOM
I can see that. Where is the crowd?
Getting ready for the big day?

BILLY
I don't know. But you won't find too many
kids hanging around this place.

AARON
Yeah. Not until they are here.

TOM
They? You mean Luke's gang?

BILLY
Yes.

TOM looks at the sullen faces of the kids. Sits beside them.

TOM

61
 They didn't hurt you, did they?

JESSICA
No. But they've taken over our place,
Tom. Can't Mr. Stanton do something?

TOM
I'm sure he'll sort out the situation. In the
meantime, you guys stay clear of them,
okay?

BILLY
You mean we keep out of the cafeteria?

AARON
Man, it's like getting ejected from your
home.

JESSICA
Evicted, not ejected.

AARON
Same thing.

BILLY
Tom, can't you do something? I know you
can, if you want to.

AARON
Yeah, Tom. Come on, man! Kick the bad
guys out of our place, just like Batman
would do.

TOM remains silent.

BILLY
Tom?

BILLY looks into TOM's eyes. TOM lowers them. Stares at his shoes.

TOM
It's not as simple as you think, Billy. I've
talked to Mr. Stanton And he'd asked me
not to mess with Luke's men.

BILLY
But why?

62
 TOM
Because... because Luke may hurt you...
or some other kid if we act against him or
his men.

Kids stare at TOM. They are scared now.

AARON
It is that serious, huh?

TOM
I don't want to scare you kids. And
believe me, this will end pretty soon. But
till it's over, I ask you to keep out of their
sight. Can you do that?

Kids nod in silence. TOM stands up. Grins.

TOM (CONT'D)
Cheer up, boys and girl! I have a brand
new story to tell. Batman versus the
Joker!

BILLY springs to his feet. AARON and JESSICA are excited.

BILLY
Right now?

TOM
Nope. After the school. Meet me at the
playground. Now run along to your
classes.

The kids pickup their schoolbags. Wave at TOM as they scamper

towards the school. TOM waves back. Turns to the door of the cafeteria.
Pushes it.

CARLIN (V.O.)
Eeeeoow! My nose!

INT. CAFETERIA - DAY

63
TOM steps in. CARLIN stands right next to the door. In pain. His nose
covered with his palm. JONES is beside him. Angry.

JONES
(To Tom)
You did that on purpose!

TOM
I didn't even know that he was behind
the door.

CARLIN takes off his palm from his nose. A smudge of blood on his
philtrum. JONES notices the blood.

JONES
(To Carlin)
You are bleeding!

CARLIN looks at his palm. Goes pale. Terrified.

CARLIN
Oh my god! Blood! I'm hurt! Wounded!

Collapses on the floor. JONES grabs TOM by his collar.

JONES
(To Tom)
This time you've gone too far,
handyman!

TOM
(To Jones)
Hey! I didn't even touch him.

Both man stand face to face. Glaring eyes. Clenched fists.

NICK comes rushing from the counter. Tries to pull JONES away.

NICK
Stop it, guys! It was just an accident.
(To Jones)
Calm down, Mr. Jones. It's all a
misunderstanding, that's all.

JONES gradually takes off his hands. Still glaring at TOM. NICK looks at
TOM pleadingly.

NICK (CONT'D)

64
 (To Tom)
TOM, please... There are kids here.

TOM looks around. Most seats are vacant but two GIRLS sit near the
counter. They look at the men. Frightened. He backs down.

CARLIN
(To Jones)
Help me, Jonesy. I think I need a doctor.

Tries to stand. Staggers. JONES holds him. Casting a menacing glance

at TOM, the goons leave.

NICK lets out a sigh of relief.

NICK
That was close. Really close. I think I
need something to eat.

TOM walks up to the girls.

TOM
Are you okay?

GIRL #1
Yeah. But I'm scared.

TOM
No need to be. They are gone.

GIRL #2
(To Tom)
You knocked him out. Just like a hero!

TOM
I didn't -

GIRL #2
I just can't wait till I tell the other kids.
(To GIRL #1)
Come on Gina, let's go and tell them.

TOM
Hey! Wait...

The girls leave the cafeteria in a jiffy. TOM looks on with gaping mouth.
NICK bites a big chunk of a COOKIE.

65
 TOM (CONT'D)
But I didn't even touch him!

Looks at NICK. The manager shrugs.

NICK
I don't need a fortune cookie to tell that
you are in big trouble.

TOM
I know.

INT. PRINCIPAL STANTON'S OFFICE - DAY

STANTON sits in his chair. Grim. Taps his fingers on the desk. Nervous.

A KNOCK on the door. TOM walks in.

TOM
You wanted to see me, Mr. Stanton?

STANTON
Yes. Take a seat.

TOM keeps standing. STANTON remains silent for some moments.

Finally stops the desk-tapping.

STANTON (CONT'D)
Luke called me. Said you are trying to
mess up with his men.

TOM
That's not true. I -

STANTON
Why can't you keep out of this, Tom? Why
you've to play a hero all the times?

TOM
Mr. Stan -

STANTON
You know that your shenanigans could
hurt the kids?

TOM
Yes, but -

66
 STANTON
Don't you have to prepare for the annual
functions? Have you found the
replacements for those two kids?

TOM
I-

STANTON
Listen to me carefully, Tom, because I'm
not going to repeat it- Keep out of this
affair. Is that clear?

TOM
Yes, Mr. Stanton.

STANTON
Don't mess up with those guys. Avoid
them. Ignore them. Be invisible to them.

TOM
Yes, Mr. Stanton.

STANTON
Very well. You can leave now.

TOM starts to walk to the door. Slow steps. Head down. STANTON looks
at him.

STANTON (CONT'D)
And Tom-

TOM turns back. STANTON has an amused look. Eyes twinkling.

STANTON (CONT'D)
Was it an uppercut or a jab?

TOM
Sir?

STANTON
That man. Carlin. How did you knock him
out cold?

TOM looks at the principal. Expressionless.

67
 TOM
It was the door, sir.

STANTON
The door... I see. Alright, Tom. Go on with
your chores.

STANTON scratches his chin. TOM gets out of the office, closing the
door behind him.

EXT. THE PLAYGROUND - DAY

TOM sits in the stands. Glum. Looks on as KEVIN and his team mates
play a practice game.

The hitter smashes a long and high one. KEVIN runs under the BALL.
The ball travels a long distance. Starts to drop just above the stands.
KEVIN is still at some distance.

TOM stretches his hand and catches the ball. KEVIN arrives seconds
later. Grins.

KEVIN
Nice catch, Tom!

TOM
Thanks.

Throws the ball to KEVIN.

KEVIN
How come you are here today? Never
seen you at the ground. Tired after the
big fight?

TOM
What big fight?

KEVIN
The one with Luke's men. You knocked
Carlin out, huh?

TOM opens his mouth. Then shuts it. Shrugs.

KEVIN (CONT'D)

68
 But that was a stupid thing to do, you
know? You're a marked man now.

TOM
Please don't remind me that.

KEVIN
You need to protect yourself, Tom. You
need something for self-defense.

Pulls out something from his pocket. A KNIFE handle. Presses a

BUTTON. The BLADE springs out. Long. Sharp edges. Shines on TOM's
face.

TOM
Holy crap!

KEVIN caresses the edges with his finger.

KEVIN
See the blade? Pure steel. Razor sharp.
Will go through almost anything.

TOM
You keep that... thing with you?

KEVIN
Comes handy. Want to test?

TOM
No thanks.

BILLY, AARON, JESSICA and some other kids arrive on their bikes. They
notice KEVIN with the knife. KEVIN's team mates also reach the stands
and look on with interest.

AARON
What's going on here?

BILLY
Kevin?

KEVIN
(Grins)
Let's see if this thing can cut through
Batman's defenses. Ready, Dark Knight?

69
 TOM
Hey -

Thrusts the Knife forward! The blade stabs TOM right below his heart!

TOM lurches back! Grunts! Clutches his chest.

The kids SHRIEK!

JESSICA
He stabbed Tom!

BILLY
(Yells at Kevin)
You killed him, you murderer! How dare
you?

The kid is enraged. Jumps on KEVIN.

KEVIN loses his balance. Tumbles on the ground with BILLY. The kid
starts to throw punches at his elder brother. KEVIN blocks most of
them, still laughing.

AARON, JESSICA and the other kids surround TOM.

TOM stares at the place where the knife had stabbed him. Carefully
removes his hands. JESSICA closes her eyes. AARON looks on,
mesmerized.

Nothing. Not a drop of blood. TOM's shirt is spotless. He is still in shock

but absolutely unharmed.

AARON
He is alright! Tom is alright!

BILLY stops. KEVIN pushes him aside. Gets up. Tears rolling from his
eyes. Holds the knife high in the air. It has only the handle. The blade is
gone.

KEVIN
Oh boy! I've never laughed so much in
my life. Thought I'm gonna die laughing.

BILLY is still on the ground. Looks at TOM. Then at KEVIN. Puzzled.

BILLY
How -

70
KEVIN throws the knife handle at his younger brother.

KEVIN
(To Billy)
It's a fake, dumb-head. The blade has a
spring.
(To Tom)
You okay? Looked like you're going to
have a heart-attack or something.

Breaks into a laugh again. Picks up the ball.

KEVIN (CONT'D)
Come on, guys. Enough fun for one day.
Back to the game.

The boys leave, laughing and happy. The kids and TOM look on.

BILLY
I'm going to report to my mom. He won't
get away this time.

AARON
Man, for a moment, I thought he'd killed
Tom for real.

BILLY
(To Tom)
Will you come to my home and talk to
mom? We need to put a stop to Kevin's
nasty pranks.

TOM remains silent. Still looking at the boys playing baseball.

BILLY (CONT'D)
Tom?

TOM
Huh? You said something?

BILLY
What are you thinking about?

TOM
Well, I think I've just found the perfect
guy for the role of Joker.

AARON

71
 (To Tom)
But I can't and you know that. Mr.
Stanton won't -

BILLY
(To Tom)
Tom... You are not thinking what I think
you're thinking?

TOM nods his head slowly. Grins.

BILLY (CONT'D)
Oh no! Not him.

TOM
I think he'll be perfect.

AARON
Who? What are you two talking about?

JESSICA
Kevin. Tom thinks he'll be the right choice
for Joker.

AARON
Holy crap!

EXT. LAKE CITY SCHOOL - NIGHT

Several CARS parked outside the school. Parents with kids and the
invited special guests enter the building. Principal STANTON stands at
the entrance, welcoming everyone.

INT. AUDITORIUM, LAKE CITY SCHOOL - NIGHT

The guests take the seats. BILLY, JESSICA and AARON sit at last row,
near the exit. On stage, the CURTAIN is down.

AARON
Isn't that the police chief, Mr. Marshall,
sitting at the front?

JESSICA
Yes. He's the honorary guest tonight.

AARON

72
 Why we're sitting at the back?

BILLY
Because I want to slip out during the
play.

AARON
Slip out? What's the plan?

BILLY
You guys sit here and watch the play; I'll
just do some snooping.

AARON
(To Billy)
That's the plan? You'll have all the fun
while we sit and clap?

JESSICA
Where are you going to snoop, Billy?

BILLY
That's a secret.

JESSICA
(To Billy)
You're not going to the cafeteria, are
you?

BILLY doesn't reply.

AARON
(To Billy)
Luke's men are crawling around that
place. You better not mess with them.

JESSICA
Remember what Tom said?

Principal STANTON appears on the stage. Has a MICROPHONE in his

hand. Takes a look at the audience. Smiles.

STANTON
I welcome you all to the grand finale of
our annual day function. Like every year,
we have a stage play to wrap up the
event.

73
Takes out his handkerchief. Wipes his forehead. Clears throat.

STANTON (CONT'D)
This year's show is going to be special.
Directed by our very own Tom Riddley
and his wonderful wife Jane...

AARON
Not to mention Aaron White, the missing
actor-

JESSICA
Shut up.

STANTON
...for the kids, and the grown-ups as well,
the play gives one clear message - Crime
never pays.

Round of applause.

STANTON (CONT'D)
I now present you Tom and Jane with
their act - Batman!

Generous claps from the audience. STANTON leaves the stage. The hall
goes dark.

BILLY
This is where I make my exit, guys.

He gets off his seat. Moves quickly among the rows of seats. Reaches
the exit. Gets out.

AARON
I see trouble on the horizon.

The curtain goes up. The Stage fills with bright light. A fast paced
music begins to play.

EXT. OUTSIDE THE CAFETERIA - NIGHT

BILLY stands at the front of the cafeteria. Two of LUKE's men stand
guard at the front door. BILLY hesitates. Then walks up to them.

GUARD #1
Hey, kid. What are you doing here?

74
 BILLY
I need to go in.

GUARD #1
No way. Luke is in a meeting.

BILLY
Oh... how long would it take?

GUARD #2
None of your concern. Now beat it.

BILLY
You don't understand. I need to go in
there. I won't disturb anyone. Please. Can
I go in now?

GUARD #2
No.

BILLY turns back. Walks a few steps. Then turns around. Dashes for the
door. The guards are taken by surprise.

GUARD #1
Hey!

INT. CAFETERIA - NIGHT

BILLY slams the door open. Barely gets in. GUARD #2 catches his
JACKET. BILLY stumbles. Looses balance. Collides with a TABLE!

He moves his hand on his forehead. A scar.

CARLIN (V.O.)
Now, what do you want, little kid?

BILLY looks up. CARLIN stands there. Towering. Smiles at the kid. BILLY
gets up.

GUARD #1
We tried to stop him but he darted in, like
a rat.

CARLIN
A rat... I hate rats.

75
Picks up BILLY and holds him in the air. The kid struggles. Throws his
legs. His leg hits CARLIN's nose.

CARLIN (CONT'D)
Eeeeeow!

Throws the kid. BILLY takes a flight. Lands on the floor with a THUD.
Shrieks in pain.

CARLIN reaches him. Pulls him up. SLAPS the kid on face!

Tears roll down BILLY's face. His cheek glows. Burning red.

CARLIN (CONT'D)
Throw the punk out.

The GUARDS pick up BILLY. They shove him out of the door. CARLIN
shuts the door.

INT. AUDITORIUM, LAKE CITY SCHOOL - NIGHT

Audience watch spellbound as BATMAN (TOM) and ROBIN (JANE)

confronts the JOKER (KEVIN) in the final scene of the play.

BATMAN/TOM
You killed my parents, Joker. I'm going to
kill you.

JOKER/KEVIN
You can't. You made me.

BATMAN/TOM
I know. Time to mend that mistake.

Punches. JOKER/KEVIN lurches backwards. Falls down. The police arrive

on the scene.

BATMAN/TOM (CONT'D)
Your time is up, Joker. No more games.

The police take away Joker. BATMAN (TOM) turns towards the audience.

BATMAN/TOM (CONT'D)
Remember this, my friends. Crime never
pays. Every criminal has a prison cell
waiting for him and he ends up there -
sooner or later.

76
A thundering applause in the hall. Everyone stand up. The Police Chief
claps with pleasure and enthusiasm.

The entire cast of the play assembles on stage. They bow down before
the audience, again and again, till the applause starts to fade.

INT. GREENROOM - NIGHT

KEVIN opens the DOOR of the greenroom and walks in. TOM and JANE
follow. Then the rest of the cast. AARON and JESSICA too join them.

KEVIN
That was some show, Tom. Smash hit
with the audience!

TOM is jubilant. Grins. JANE too looks happy and satisfied.

TOM
What about my choice, Jane?

JANE
Got to admit it that Kevin did perfectly.
Wonderful, I'd say.

KEVIN
Thanks, Jane.
(Notices Aaron)
Hey, Aaron. Where is Billy?

AARON
Erm... I don't know, Kevin.

TOM
He was supposed to be with you two,
watching the play.

AARON
Well, he was. But he left at the start. Said
he has something important to do.

JESSICA
Oh come on, Aaron! Tell them the truth.

TOM
What truth? Where is Billy, Aaron?

The boy looks flustered. Undecided.

77
 AARON
Well, he wanted to go to the cafeteria
and -

TOM
Cafeteria? Don't you guys know what's
going on there?

AARON
I know, Tom. And we warned him, didn't
we, Jess? But he just went away.

KEVIN
I'll go and check on him.

The DOOR to the WASH ROOM opens. BILLY stands there. His face all
wet. Hair disheveled. A scar on his forehead. Eyes red.

JANE
Oh god, Billy! What's happened to you?

Everyone turns and look at the boy. BILLY just stands there. His lips
trembles. On the verge of crying.

JANE rushes to him. Holds him tight.

KEVIN
What's the matter with you, kiddo?

JANE
He is terrified. Give him some time.

TOM brings a CHAIR. JANE makes BILLY sit on it. She gets a GLASS of
WATER and gives it to the kid.

JANE (CONT'D)
(To Jessica)
Jess, will you please find me my first-aid
box? It should be somewhere in this
room.

They all gather around BILLY. JESSICA hands a FIRST-AID BOX to JANE.

JANE (CONT'D)
Here, let me clean that scar and put
something on it.

78
BILLY clenches his teeth as JANE dresses up the wound. Tears roll down
on his face. He breaks down and cry. JANE holds him close to her.

JANE (CONT'D)
It'll be alright, Billy. You're gonna be okay.

BILLY shivers. JANE looks at TOM.

TOM
Billy, what happened? Did you go to the
cafeteria?

The kid nods in affirmative.

TOM (CONT'D)
I told you not to go there anymore... Did
they do this to you? Did they hurt you,
Billy?

BILLY looks up. Face smeared with tears.

BILLY
I just... wanted to look into your closet...
I'm sorry.

TOM
My closet? What for?

The boy remains silent.

TOM (CONT'D)
Why, Billy? Answer me.

BILLY
I was looking for some... evidence.

TOM
Evidence?

BILLY
That you are... Batman.

TOM throws his hand in the air. Then his eyes meet JANE's. Her eyes
are reproachful. TOM looks away.

KEVIN

79
 That's the stupidest thing I've ever heard.

BILLY continues to sob. JANE moves her hand through his hair.

TOM
Did Luke hit you?

BILLY shakes his head.

TOM (CONT'D)
Who was it, then?

BILLY
That Carlin guy... there were others too.

TOM's eyes start to burn. He clenches his fists.

TOM
You guys stay here.

Strides towards the door.

JANE
Tom! Where are you going?

But TOM is already out of the room.

AARON
This is not good.

EXT. OUTSIDE THE CAFETERIA - NIGHT

TOM reaches the front of the cafeteria. Still in his Batman costume. No
guards at the front door. He walks up briskly to the door.

INT. CAFETERIA - NIGHT

Thick smoke fills the air. Most seats are taken by Luke's army. NICK is
nowhere to be seen. The goons, smoke, drink, chat and laugh.

LUKE sits at the far end of the hall. CARLIN and JONES flank him on
each side. Opposite to him sits RICARDO GOMEZ (30). The tough
looking South American speaks animatedly.

GOMEZ
You must realize how much risk Marcos is
taking here.

80
 LUKE
I understand. Tell Marcos that I'm
honored. And I assure you that this place
is absolutely safe for him.

GOMEZ
It better be. Marcos hates being bothered
by the cops.

LUKE
No need to worry, my friend.

LUKE takes out his CIGARETTE CASE and offers to GOMEZ. The DOOR of
the cafeteria opens with a loud noise. Everyone turns.

TOM stands at the door in his Batman costume. His eyes searches the
hall. Stops when he sees LUKE.

Someone whistles. Chuckles and laughs all around. TOM ignores

everything. Heads straight for LUKE.

The mob leader looks at the costumed man in part amusement, part
irritation. GOMEZ inspects TOM like a Scientist sizing up a lab rat.
CARLIN and JONES hold TOM as he approaches the table.

CARLIN
Luke, this is the man I -

TOM
We need to talk, Luke.

LUKE
What is this? What do you want?

TOM
The kid, Luke. You hit the kid. You hurt
him.

LUKE gets off the chair. Walks up to TOM who tries to shake himself
free.

LUKE
That kid was snooping around. I don't like
it when people snoop around my place.

TOM
This is not your place.

81
 LUKE
You're wrong. I've hired this place from
your boss. It's a fair deal. Now get lost
before I loose my humor.

LUKE waves at CARLIN and JONES. They start pushing TOM backwards.
GOMEZ still looks on at TOM with interest.

LUKE returns to his seat. Takes out a HANDKERCHIEF. Wipes the sweat
off his forehead.

LUKE (CONT'D)
Very sorry for this little interruption, Mr.
Gomez. That man is simply crazy.

GOMEZ
Sometimes, crazy men could be trouble.

TOM
(Yells at Luke)
You will apologize, Hammond!

CARLIN and JONES stop. TOM shakes himself free of their hold. LUKE
snarls.

LUKE
What did you say?

Gets off his seat again. Walks briskly towards TOM. Grabs his collars.
Stares right into his eyes.

LUKE (CONT'D)
What did you say, punk?

TOM
You will apologize... to the kid.

LUKE
And what if I don't? What would you do if
I don't apologize to that little rat?

TOM's face twitch. Hands tremble. He looks into the eyes of the
ruthless mobster. LUKE pulls him closer. Their noses almost touching.

LUKE (CONT'D)

82
 Listen you moron. I can crush all those
teeny-weeny rats with my shoe and you
can't do a thing.

Everyone gathers around. GOMEZ now sits on the table.

LUKE (CONT'D)
You can wear all the costumes in the
world but they won't make you man
enough to face Lucky Luke.

A vicious smile on LUKE's face. He loosens his grip on TOM.

LUKE (CONT'D)
Why don't you bring that wife of yours to
protect you? I hear that she has more
brains than you, Mr. Handyman.

In a flash, TOM moves his hand in the air. With a SOUND that
resembles the CRACK of a GUNSHOT, he SLAPS LUKE on face!

A hush falls on the room.

Everyone freezes in their tracks. LUKE gapes. Shocked. Stunned.

Then everything gets in motion. Goons grab TOM. CARLIN and JONES
are already at his throat. LUKE's face seething with anger.

LUKE (CONT'D)
You punk! I'm gonna show you what it
means to hit Lucky Luke.

Advances menacingly. TOM struggles to get free but is outnumbered.

GOMEZ
Wait, Hammond.

LUKE turns to GOMEZ. The South American has a mocking smile on his
face.

GOMEZ (CONT'D)
I hear that you are the toughest man in
this town. Show me.

A murmur in the crowd. LUKE stares at GOMEZ for a while. Nods his
head.

LUKE

83
 (To Carlin and Jones)
Back off. Leave him to me.

Grinning, the goons let TOM go. Now he stands inside the circle of the
gangsters. LUKE sizes up his opponent.

LUKE (CONT'D)
Alright, Mr. Hero. Here is the deal- If you
still stand on your feet after I'm done
with you, I may just consider letting you
go in one piece.

TOM looks around. The ruffians now grinning viciously. The circle
widens as LUKE advances towards him. Cheers for LUKE. The mob
leader prepares to strike.

TOM's hand finds the SSG hanging by his side. He pulls it out of the
holster. LUKE hesitates, just for a moment. Then lunges forward.

In split seconds, TOM aims the SSG at LUKE. Pulls the trigger!

A weird mechanical SOUND... followed by electronics BEEPS.

LUKE staggers. About to fall.

TOM looks at the circle of goons around him. They are in a state of
shock. Look at him in utter amazement.

He looks at LUKE. The gangster is not down. Not even staggering. Just
stares at TOM in disbelief.

And then the roar starts. First, LUKE breaks into an uncontrollable
laughter. Then GOMEZ. Pretty soon, the gang joins.

TOM looks at them. Dumbfounded. Looks at the SSG in his hand.

Slowly, very slowly, his hand drops the SSG. The gun hits the floor.

He looks at LUKE who is still shaking with laughter. The hall echoes the
roar of the goons. Finally, LUKE manages to control himself.

LUKE (CONT'D)
Oh man! I knew you're crazy but this
much?

CARLIN
Should I kill him now?

LUKE

84
 No... No, I don't think so. Anyone who has
the guts to face Lucky Luke with a... toy
gun must get a second chance. Besides, I
loved the joke.

CARLIN
But-

LUKE raises his hand. CARLIN shrugs.

LUKE turns to GOMEZ.

LUKE
Let's move, Mr. Gomez.

JONES
(Points to Tom)
What should we do with him?

LUKE
(To Jones)
I'll tell you.

LUKE and GOMEZ proceed to the exit door. LUKE stops near the door.

LUKE (CONT'D)
(Yells at Tom)
I guess you need some time to recover.
I'll provide you the environment.

Chuckles. Turns off the lights of the hall. Darkness engulfs the place.

LUKE (CONT'D)
There is no better place than a dark
corner to burry your shame, Mr. Hero!
Good luck!

The SOUND of door slamming. TOM squints. Shadows move around

him. Closes in on him. Hands grab him by the shoulder. He tries to fend
off the shadows. Goes down on the floor. The shadows cover him.

INT. GREENROOM - NIGHT

85
JANE paces across the room. Worried. KEVIN sits beside BILLY. The other
kids

BILLY
It's late. What is he doing there?

JANE
It was a bad idea. I should have never let
him go.

BILLY
Do you think we should go and check?
Maybe he's in trouble.

JANE stops. Checks her WATCH.

JANE
We need to inform Principal Stanton.
Kevin, can you do that?

KEVIN
Sure.

The door opens. STANTON walks in. Happy. Grinning.

STANTON
That was a fabulous show, guys. The
guests were impressed. Congratulations!

Looks at the kids and JANE. His expression changes. Concerned.

STANTON (CONT'D)
What's the matter? Where is Tom?

JANE
We think he is in trouble, Mr. Stanton.
Can you please come with us to the
cafeteria?

STANTON
(To Jane)
Cafe... Oh no! He went to the cafeteria?
What for?

JANE
(To Stanton)
To talk to Luke... his men hit Billy while
the show was going on.

86
STANTON takes a look at BILLY.

JANE (CONT'D)
(To Stanton)
Billy is alright. Please, Mr. Stanton. We
must hurry.

STANTON
Right. Come with me.

STANTON exits the room, followed by JANE, KEVIN and the kids.

INT. CAFETERIA - NIGHT

The door opens. A shadow enters the hall. Stands for a while. Sound of
a CLICK. The lights turn on. STANTON squints.

JANE, KEVIN and the kids enter. Look around. Kids start to cough.

JANE
They were smoking heavily.

STANTON
I don't see Tom.

They advance a few steps. Someone GROANS. They look up at the

direction of the sound.

STANTON (CONT'D)
Oh my god!

JANE rushes. STANTON follows. Kids just look in horror.

TOM lies on the floor. Bruised. Battered. The Batman costume torn
apart. Blood on his face. Eyes dark. The SSG lies beside him

JANE
Tom! Oh Tom!

She sits by his side. TOM opens his eyes. Tries to get up. Stumbles.
JANE steadies him. He wavers on his feet.

STANTON
(To Tom)
What happened here, Tom?

TOM

87
 I'm sorry.

JANE tries to hold his arms. He shrugs off. Hobbles on his feet as he
takes a few steps forward.

TOM (CONT'D)
(To Stanton)
I'm really sorry for this mess, Mr. Stanton.
But I'll clean it up.

STANTON
Tom, you just-

TOM shakes his head. Smiles ruefully.

TOM
Should've cleaned it up a long time back.
But better late than never.

JANE
Tom, just listen to me.

TOM staggers to the corner where a CLOSET stands. He opens it.

Rummages inside. Picks up something. Throws it on the floor.

A bundle of BATMAN COMICS.

TOM
Too much junk in my closet... Should've
cleaned it up...

Throws a pack of Batman VIDEO GAMES on the floor.

The kids look on in shock. Tears roll down BILLY's face. KEVIN just
stands there, undecided.

TOM tears off a POSTER of BATMAN from his closet wall. Tears it up into
pieces. Throws on the floor.

Limps towards the storeroom at the back.

JANE
Oh my god! What's happening to him?
Tom!

STANTON stops her.

STANTON

88
 Let it get out of him, Jane. Let it all get
out of him.

TOM comes back to the hall. Has a BROOM. Starts to mop the floor,
pushing the comics, games and the torn poster in one corner.

TOM
There... I've cleaned up the mess.

Limps to BILLY. The kid is in tears. Scared. TOM looks straight at him.

TOM (CONT'D)
(To Billy))
You wanted to know the truth, Billy. Well,
the truth is out now. No more secrets in
the closet. This is the real Tom Riddley.

JANE
Tom, please...

TOM
(To Jane)
No Jane. He must know.
(To Billy)
Look at me , Billy. Do you think that
Batman would have taken such a beating
from someone like Luke?

TOM stands straight. Looks at everyone in the hall.

TOM (CONT'D)
There are no super heroes, guys. Time to
get real. Time to end this charade
forever.

STANTON
I must report to the cops immediately.
This is getting out of hand.

TOM
(To Stanton)
No sir, don't do that. Tomorrow is their
big deal. Wait and see if they move out.
(Beat)
They can hurt the kids if we mess up with
them now. I know that for sure. Please sir.
Just wait it out.

89
 STANTON
I think you are right. It's too late for
that... Go home now, Tom. Take rest.

TOM limps towards the door. JANE supports him. As they get to the
door, TOM looks back. Sad. Dejected. Defeated. He looks at the kids.
Turns back. Exit the hall with Jane.

STANTON, KEVIN and the kids watch TOM leaving.

STANTON (CONT'D)
Billy, Aaron. Pick up his stuff.

The boys don't ask questions. They start gathering the comics and the
games. KEVIN picks up the torn poster.

KEVIN
Don't think we can restore this.

The door opens once again. It is LUKE. He looks at the Principal. Smiles
with contempt.

STANTON
Mr. Hammond, we need to talk.

LUKE
I'm all ears. But be quick. I'm rather busy
tonight.

STANTON
Your men have attacked a kid and one of
my staff.

LUKE
I believe we have a contract of
cooperation, Mr. Stanton. You don't mess
with me and I leave your people alone.

STANTON
But-

LUKE
But they broke that contract, Mr. Stanton.
That kid was snooping around. And that
fool in the costume attacked me with a
gun.

LUKE looks at BILLY who stands behind KEVIN.

90
 LUKE (CONT'D)
Is this the boy? I'm sorry but it was my
men, not me. Come here, kid. Let me see
how bad it is.

KEVIN
Leave him alone.

LUKE
My pleasure. And that's what I ask from
you - leave me alone. Let me finish my
deal and I'll be on my way. Mess with me
and...

Some of his men enter the place with LARGE BOXES.

STANTON
Let's get out of here, kids.

STANTON, KEVIN and the kids leave the cafeteria.

EXT. OUTSIDE THE CAFETERIA - NIGHT

STANTON and KEVIN walks towards the street. The kids, carrying TOM's
comics and games, walk ahead of them.

A PICK-UP VAN stands on the street, just in front of the cafeteria. LUKE's
men take out boxes from it. Carry them to the cafeteria.

AARON
Look at them. What do you think they are
doing?

JESSICA
Getting ready for that deal, I guess...
Whatever it is.

AARON
What could be in those boxes?

JESSICA
Guns, Drugs, Money... anything.

AARON
Boy... I wish I could take a look into them.

JESSICA

91
 Trying to be curious? Look at Billy and
learn.

BILLY keeps silent.

EXT. THE STREET - NIGHT

The kids walk on. STANTON and KEVIN follow them.

KEVIN
Can I ask you something, Mr. Stanton?

STANTON
Go ahead.

KEVIN
Do you think that Tom will ever come
back to the school... after all the
humiliation?

STANTON
I don't know, Kevin. I really don't know.
He is deeply hurt... from inside. It would
take time, I guess.

KEVIN
Yeah... Time is the best healer.

STANTON
And then, even the time sometimes can't
heal completely. The scars remain.
(Beat)
They can bring him back... Yes... I think
only they can.

KEVIN
Who?

STANTON points at the kids walking ahead. KEVIN looks at STANTON.

Unsure. Then he nods his head. Slowly.

Clouds cover the moon. Night becomes darker. Three kids, the boy and
the man walk on. No one speaks.

INT. LIVING ROOM, TOM'S HOUSE - NIGHT

92
JANE puts a BAND-AID on TOM's forehead. The man is all beaten.
BANDAGES and BAND-AIDS on various parts of his face and body. Black
eyes.

JANE
There... Are you feeling okay now?

TOM doesn't reply. Closes his eyes. Slumps back on the couch.

JANE (CONT'D)
It was my fault... all my fault. That damn
gun-

TOM
Don't blame yourself. It wasn't the gun. It
was me.

Talks with his eyes closed. In pain. Words come out slowly.

TOM (CONT'D)
Surrounded by Batman... You were right. I
was living in a delusion.

JANE
Tom-

TOM
Those stories, they got to my head, Jane.
That's all. The kids... They made me feel
like I'm a real super hero.

JANE
Tom, I think you should rest now. We can
talk later.

TOM opens his eyes. JANE sits behind him. Rests her head on his chest.
TOM flinches. Pain.

TOM
I'm sorry, honey... But I promise to
change everything...

JANE
Tom?

TOM
No more kiddy stuff... no more super
hero. I'll be what I am - the handyman.

93
JANE sobs. TOM holds her close and tight.

JANE
That day, I got mad when you had a fight
with Luke's man? I was scared. But
somewhere inside, I was proud of you
too.

She moves her hand lightly on his chest.

JANE (CONT'D)
I know you're not a coward, Tom. And I
don't want you to be one now. But we
need to -

Looks up. TOM is already dozing. She covers him with a SHEET.

EXT. LAKE CITY SCHOOL - NIGHT

The school building is almost dark except the light coming out of
Principal STANTON's window. His SHADOW appears on the window...
moves away... comes again. The Principal is pacing across the room.

EXT. PORCH, BILLY'S HOUSE - NIGHT

BILLY sits at the porch. Sullen. Dejected. Looks at the night sky.

KEVIN comes and sits beside his younger brother. BILLY doesn't look at
him.

KEVIN
How are you doing, kiddo?

BILLY remains silent.

KEVIN (CONT'D)
He will be alright. Don't worry.

Tears come up in BILLY's eyes. He hangs his head.

BILLY
It was my fault... my fault. He told us to
stay clear but...

KEVIN

94
 Nope. Whatever happened was meant to
be.

BILLY
If I wouldn't have gone to the cafe,
nothing...

He breaks down. Sobs. KEVIN puts an arm around him.

BILLY (CONT'D)
Kev, do you think he'll ever come back to
the school?

KEVIN
It's up to you.

BILLY looks up at his brother. Tears still rolling down on his face.

BILLY
What do you mean?

KEVIN
Tom has suffered a lot tonight. The pain
will go... but it's his pride and self-respect
that has taken a beating that is hard to
mend.

Both remain silent for a while.

KEVIN (CONT'D)
But you know what? He loves the
school... and he loves you kids more than
anything else.

BILLY wipes the tears off his face.

KEVIN (CONT'D)
Why don't you see him in the morning?
Take Aaron and Jess with you. Talk to him.
Maybe, he'll come back.

BILLY
You think so?

KEVIN
Yeah. And so does Mr. Stanton.

BILLY

95
 Really?

KEVIN
Yeah. Now let's get inside. Dinner calling.
Me Hungry.

BILLY chuckles. His face brightens up. KEVIN stands up and pulls BILLY.
Both of them scamper to the door.

EXT. STREET - DAY

BILLY, AARON and JESSICA ride their bikes. A CARDBOARD-BOX tied at

the back of BILLY's bike.

AARON
So what's the idea?

BILLY
We'll talk to him.

AARON
You think that will work?

BILLY
Yes.

JESSICA
Billy, he has taken the biggest beating of
his life last night.

BILLY
That's why he needs us.

Paddles faster. Moves ahead. AARON tries to catch him. JESSICA rides
behind them.

EXT. TOM'S HOUSE - DAY

The kids stand at the door. BILLY presses the bell.

JANE opens the door. Somewhat surprised.

BILLY
Hey, Jane. Is Tom in?

JANE

96
 He is, Billy. But I think it would be better
if you leave him alone for now.

BILLY looks hurt.

BILLY
But we only wanted to -

JANE
Don't get me wrong, kids. I know how
much you love him. But right now is not a
good time to see him.

BILLY
Just for once, Jane. Please.

JANE
Alright... Come on in.

INT. LIVING ROOM, TOM'S HOUSE - DAY

TOM sits on his couch. Going through a BOOK on PLUMBING. The kids
stand in front of him. BILLY holds the cardboard-box in his hands.

JANE
I'll get something to eat for everyone.

JANE exits the room. TOM takes a look at the kids. Gestures to sit.

BILLY
How are you doing, Tom?

TOM
(To Billy)
Not bad, as you can see. I can stand and
I can walk and I can read.

Silence in the room.

BILLY
(To Tom)
I've gathered your stuff. You may need
them.

TOM

97
 (To Billy)
For what?

BILLY puts down the box carefully. TOM just ignores it.

BILLY
(To Tom)
Are you coming back... to the school?

TOM
I am the school handyman, remember?

BILLY
Today?

TOM
The school is closed.

AARON
(To Tom)
They are making that deal... Luke will be
there... with those foreign guys.

TOM's face hardens. He looks towards the window. Silent. Then turns to
the kids. Stern.

TOM
Look... I've got nothing to do with them.
There are other people to take care of
this business.

BILLY
But Tom-

TOM
(Yells)
Enough is enough, Billy. You saw me last
night. You still think I am Batman? Wake
up, kid! This is Tom the handyman. No
more super hero stuff. It's over. You get
it? Over!

BILLY is crestfallen. AARON and JESSICA shrink in their seats. JANE

comes into the room. Concerned.

JANE
Stop yelling, Tom. You're scaring them.

98
 TOM
(To Jane)
They better be. I don't want them to get
into any trouble. I have enough on my
plate already.

Storms out of the room. JANE sighs. The kids stand there- scared,
dismayed.

JANE
(To Kids)
Don't worry. He is still a bit grumpy, you
know. Just give him some time.

They look at each other.

BILLY
We understand, Jane. Se you later.
(To Aaron and Jessica)
Come on, guys.

EXT. OUTSIDE TOM'S HOUSE - DAY

The kids stand with their bikes. BILLY looks lost in thoughts. AARON is
clueless.

AARON
Now what?

JESSICA
Better go home. There's nothing we can
do.

BILLY
(Firmly)
I think we can.

JESSICA
Billy, you heard the man. He doesn't
want to do anything.

BILLY
We will stop Luke.

JESSICA
What?

99
 AARON
Are you crazy?

BILLY
Listen, guys. I have an idea.

JESSICA
But -

BILLY
Trust me on this, Jess. We can do it. We
can at least try. For Tom.

AARON cheers up.

AARON
(Yells)
For Tom!

BILLY
(To Jessica)
Jess?

JESSICA
The chances of our success- oh well,
whatever.

BILLY
Let's go, guys!

Soon, the kids are flying on their bikes.

INT. LIVING ROOM, TOM'S HOUSE - DAY

JANE arranges some FLOWERS on a SHELF. Seems distracted. Going

through the motions.

TOM enters the room. Has a SCREWDRIVER in one hand, his TOOLBOX
in another. Puts the Toolbox on the shelf.

TOM
I'm getting good with gadgets. Fixed the
microwave for you.

JANE
Nice.

100
 TOM
What's the matter with you?

JANE keeps silent. Dusts the window pane.

TOM (CONT'D)
Still thinking about the kids, are you?
Jane, what I did was for their good. They
need to face the reality.

JANE
It depends on what you think the reality
is.

TOM
What do you mean?

The DOOR BELL RINGS furiously. Someone BANGS on the door.

JANE
What's going on?

JESSICA stumbles into the room. About to fall. TOM holds her. The girl is
out of breath. Scared. TOM takes her to the couch.

TOM
What happened to you, Jess?

JESSICA
They... They...

JANE
I'll get some water.

JANE exits. TOM tries to calm down the girl.

TOM
Calm down, Jess. It's alright.

JESSICA
No... It isn't. They've got Billy and Aaron.

JANE returns with a GLASS of WATER. Catches JESSICA's words.

Stunned.

JANE

101
 Oh my god!

TOM
(To Jessica)
They went to cafeteria?

JESSICA nods. TOM shakes his head. Frustrated.

TOM (CONT'D)
I guess it was Billy's idea. No. I'm sure it
was his idea.

JANE
Tom, we must call the police. This is
serious.

TOM
(To Jane)
Wait. Let me think.

JANE looks at TOM. Uncertain. TOM is nervous. JANE hands the water to
JESSICA. The girl gulps it down in no time.

TOM (CONT'D)
(To Jessica)
Tell me everything. How did it happen?

JESSICA
Billy said he had an idea to stop Luke.
Said we should do it for you. We got to
the cafeteria. There were two goons at
the front.

TOM
How did they get in?

JESSICA
The store room window is open... Billy
asked me to stay there and he went in
with Aaron.

TOM
And Luke got them on a platter ... Nice
plan, Billy!

JESSICA
I waited for them and when they didn't
return after thirty minutes, I went in.

102
 TOM
Holy crap! You kids are... what happened
next?

JESSICA
I saw Billy and Aaron. Carlin and Jones
were holding them. I think they slapped
Billy too.

TOM's jaw hardens. JANE reaches for the phone.

JANE
Okay. It ends here. I'm calling the cops.

TOM
(To Jane)
No, Jane. Wait. If we call the cops, Luke
may hurt the boys. He may even take
them hostage to get away.

JANE
(To Tom)
So what are we supposed to do? Sit and
look on?

TOM
No. We will rescue the boys and then
inform the cops.

JANE looks at him. TOM stands erect. The gloom is gone, replaced by a
calm determination.

TOM (CONT'D)
(To Jane)
I'm going there, honey. I'm going to get
the kids.

JANE
(Softly)
Then you better hurry.

They stand there, looking into each other's eyes. Then JANE reaches
him. They lock in an embrace. Kiss.

JANE (CONT'D)
Promise me that you'll be careful.

TOM

103
 I will be. You know what to do if I don't
come back soon enough.

JANE nods. TOM turns to JESSICA.

TOM (CONT'D)
Stay here, Jess. And don't worry about
the boys. I'm going to bring them back.

Strides to the door. Gets out. JANE sits beside JESSICA and holds the
scared girl in her arms.

EXT. STREET - DAY

TOM appears from distance, riding a SKATEBOARD. Evades the traffic

and the pedestrians skillfully.

INT. STANTON'S OFFICE - DAY

Principal STANTON stands by the window. Worried. Cups his chin in his
palm. Lost in thoughts.

Something catches his attention. Peers out.

STANTON
What the heck?

STANTON's POV - TOM rides on a skateboard. Hurries past the school.

Goes towards the cafeteria.

STANTON frowns. Stands there for some moments. Then walks briskly
towards the door of the office.

EXT. OUTSIDE THE SCHOOL CAFETERIA - DAY

A couple of cars with DARK, TINTED GLASSES and a PICK-UP VAN

parked on the street.

Two GOONS stand in front of the cafeteria DOOR. Look bored. Smoke
cheap CIGARETTES.

GOON #1

104
 Don't you think that Luke is being too
careful? I mean, who'd come here to
mess with us?

GOON #2
You can't be too careful. This is a big
deal. Saw that Mexican guy? I heard that
he is in the list of every agency you could
think of.

GOON #1
Big fish, eh? Well, after this deal, Luke
will be big too.

GOON #2 nods in agreement. Drops the cigarette butt on the ground.

Squashes it with his SHOE.

Sound of a CRASH! Both look up. TOM lies on the street. Sprawled near
the pick-up van. Skateboard over him.

GOON #1 (CONT'D)
Hey! Isn't that the guy with the toy gun?

GOON #2
Same joker. Wonder what he is up to
now?

They watch TOM with suspicion. He gets up. Sheepish grin. Picks up the
skateboard. Gets away quickly.

GOON #1
Weird guy.

EXT. SIDE OF THE CAFETERIA - DAY

TOM carefully moves along the wall. Reaches under a WINDOW that is
half open. Jumps. Holds the ledge. Drags himself up. Wriggles through
the window.

INT. STORE-ROOM, CAFETERIA - DAY

Dimly lit room. TOM stands beside the WINDOW. Cautious. Squints.

The place is full of things. BARRELS, CARTONS, SHELVES filled with TIN
CANS and CARDBOARD BOXES.

105
Approaching FOOTSTEPS! TOM panics. Looks around for a place to
hide. Gets behind a barrel.

The DOOR opens. A MAN walks in. One of the Luke's army. Stands still
for a while. Notices the open window. Walks up to it.

GOON
Well, well, well! What do we have here?
And that lazy bones Carlin said that the
place is all secured.

Proceeds to close the window. Stops halfway. Tries to turn back.

TOM (V.O.)
Don't move. Can you feel the cold steel
on your back? Do you know what it is?

The GOON nods. Scared Stiff. TOM stands behind him, holding a
PLUMBING PIPE that is pressed against the GOON's back.

TOM (CONT'D)
Put your hands over your head and get
down on your knees. One smart move,
one little yell and I'll shoot!

The GOON complies obediently. TOM takes out a DUCT TAPE from his
pocket. Ties the hands of the gangster. Gags him.

TOM (CONT'D)
Sorry for making you uncomfortable, pal.
Just relax. This will be over soon.

He reaches a shelf and pulls out a long piece of ROPE. Ties the legs of
the GOON. The gangster now lies on the floor- all bound and gagged.

TOM inspects the GOON with a satisfied smile.

TOM (CONT'D)
One down. You're good, Tom Riddley.

Holds the legs of the GOON. Drags him behind a pillar of barrels,
placed on top of each other. Drops him. Out of Breath. Leans against
the bottom barrel to rest.

The barrel moves. Tips the top barrel! About to fall! Tom looks up in
horror!

106
 TOM (CONT'D)
Uh-oh!

Holds the barrel just in time. A STICKY LIQUID oozes from it. TOM barely
avoids. The liquid covers the area beside his feet.

EXT. THE PLAYGROUND - DAY

KEVIN swings the BAT in the air. Looks around. The PITCHER grins at
him.

PITCHER
Two strikes, Kev.

KEVIN nods. Takes stance. Concentrated. The BALL flies towards him.
Slow delivery. He waits.

KEVIN
(Mutters)
Easy, now.

The ball comes to him. Swings the bat. SWOOSH! Misses completely.

PITCHER
(Yells)
Strike Three!

The players scamper across the pitch. KEVIN still stands at the base.
Eyes fixed on something distant.

KEVIN's POV: STANTON pulls himself up to the ledge of an open

WINDOW of the cafeteria. Gets in. Disappears.

Players crowd around KEVIN.

PITCHER (CONT'D)
What's the matter, Kev?

KEVIN
Guys, I think we have a situation here.

Keeps looking at the window. Puzzled.

INT. CAFETERIA - DAY

107
LUKE sits with GOMEZ and MARCOS (45). The infamous drug-lord
adjusts his WHITE PANAMA HAT. He has an expensive, all WHITE SUITE
and WHITE SHOES.

CARLIN holds BILLY. JONES has AARON. The kids are scared. Two other
GOONS stand near the counter.

LUKE
(To Marcos)
I assure you, Mr. Marcos. These kids are
no trouble.

MARCOS
And yet they've managed to get in. I
hope you're right, Mr. Hammond. For your
sake.

Walks to the kids. Moves his hand through BILLY's hair. The boy
struggles.

MARCOS (CONT'D)
(To Billy)
Tell me, boy - How did you get in?

BILLY
I told you. We're hiding in the kitchen
since last night.

MARCOS
Who else knows you're here?

BILLY
Nobody. Just the two of us.

MARCOS
(To Luke)
He's a smart kid. Smart and brave. Just
the kind I want in my team.

LUKE
You want to -

MARCOS
Yes. I know a gem when I see it. And this
boy is a real gem. He will become one of
the best. I'll take them both with me. A
little polishing and they'd be ready.

108
 LUKE
As you please, Mr. Marcos. But we should
complete the contract now.

MARCOS
Ah yes. The contract. The paper work.
The smell of paper always makes me feel
so... legal.

MARCOS breaks into a laugh. LUKE joins him. Others follow.

INT. CORRIDOR, CAFETERIA - DAY

TOM clings to the wall of the corridor. Keeps himself under the
shadows. Peers into the hall.

STANTON (V.O.)
(Whispers)
So what are we going to do?

TOM jumps. About to scream. Controls himself. Turns back. STANTON

stands behind him.

TOM
How do you-

STANTON
Shsh... Keep your voice low. Any idea?
We can't take on all of them at once.

TOM
No. But we can take one at a time. I think
I've got an idea.

STANTON
Alright. I'll follow you.

INT. CAFETERIA - DAY

LUKE and MARCOS go through some papers. Sound of a CRASH. The

goons stand alert.

LUKE

109
 That came from the kitchen.

MARCOS
Some more rats hiding in there?

LUKE
We'll find out.

Nods to the GOONS at the counter. They head for the kitchen.
Disappear into the corridor.

INT. KITCHEN, CAFETERIA - DAY

Dark. Quiet. The door opens. The GOONS enter the room.

GOON #1
Switch on the lights.

GOON #2
Let me find the switch first.
(Beat)
What the hell is this? I can't move?

GOON #1
What? What are you...? Oh crap! I'm
stuck. There is something on the floor.

TWO SHADOWS appear behind them. In a flash, duct tapes bind their
hands and gag their mouths.

TOM
Another SSG from Jane. Super Sticky
Glue. I brought some for the school
function a couple of days back.

STANTON
Call the next one?

TOM
Yeah. But beware of that Gomez guy. He
looks dangerous.

EXT. CAFETERIA - DAY

LUKE takes out a PEN. Impatient. Gives it to MARCOS.

110
 MARCOS
(To Luke)
So, we're about to become partners,
Hammond.

LUKE
Call me Luke, Mr. Marcos.

MARCOS scribbles on the paper. Stops. Looks at the pen.

MARCOS
Your pen is not working.

LUKE glares at JONES. The goon looks at the floor. MARCOS shakes the
pen. A Jet of ink shoots from it. Splatters on LUKE's face.

MARCOS (CONT'D)
Pardon, Luke. Funny pen.

Starts to laugh. LUKE barely smiles. Takes out his HANDKERCHIEF and
wipes his face.

CARLIN
(Mutters)
Jonesy... Your days are over.

Sound of another CRASH!

GOMEZ
I'll check out.

Takes out a KNIFE. Heads for the corridor.

INT. KITCHEN, CAFETERIA - DAY

TOM
(To Stanton)
Watch out! It's Gomez. Hide properly, sir.

GOMEZ enters the dark room. Careful. Holds the knife in front of him.
Runs his hand along the wall to find the switch.

Movement behind him! The door closes! Couple of shadows jump on

him. The knife falls on the floor with a loud CLINK! GOMEZ grabs one of
the shadows! Both roll down on the floor.

STANTON

111
 Damn! I'm stuck!

TOM
(To Stanton)
Gag him sir, quick!

GOMEZ
(Yells)
Help!

The duct tape fastens on his mouth. Pair of hands ties him up.

TOM
(To Stanton)
Do you think they've heard him?

STANTON
(To Tom)
I think so. And I'm stuck along with him.

MARCOS (V.O.)
(Yells)
Come out in the open, big rats. I have a
gun and two tiny rats here. You don't
want to see them dead.

STANTON
They've heard him for sure. Now what,
Tom?

TOM
You stay here. I'll go. They don't know
that there are two of us in here.

STANTON
But Tom-

TOM
We don't have time, sir. And you can't
move anyway. If I don't go out, they'll
come and find both of us here.

MARCOS (V.O.)
(Yells)
My patience and your time, both running
out, rats!

112
TOM walks towards the Corridor. STANTON watches him.

STANTON
All the best, Tom.

INT. CAFETERIA - DAY

TOM walks into the hall. Hands up in the air. LUKE looks at him in
disbelief. BILLY and AARON renew their struggle.

LUKE
(To Tom)
You!

MARCOS waves an AUTOMATIC at TOM.

MARCOS
(To Tom)
So... you're the big rat.

LUKE
(To Marcos)
This man is crazy... and he is quite
troublesome.

MARCOS
Is he? We'll see...
(To Tom)
Where is Gomez?

TOM
(To Marcos)
He is kind of stuck at the moment.

MARCOS puts the BARREL of the automatic to TOM's head.

MARCOS
Stuck? Too bad... I hate to do this dirty
job. Gomez always-

The front door opens with a loud BANG! It's JANE. Fully clad in her
ROBIN COSTUME. Holding the SSG in her hand.

TOM
(To Jane)

113
 Jane! What are you doing here?

JANE
(To Tom)
Sidekick to the rescue. Thought you
could use some help.

MARCOS
(Yells at Luke)
Now a girl in costume! What the hell is
happening here, Luke? Don't tell me she
was in the kitchen too!

LUKE
(Mumbling)
I don't know... there were guards outside.
(Yells at Carlin and Jones)
Get that girl, you fools!

The duo advance menacingly towards JANE. Their hands go inside their
POCKETS. Take out KNIVES in unison.

TOM
(To Jane)
Get out of here, Jane!

JANE aims the SSG at the goons.

JANE
(Shouts)
I'm warning you! Get back or you may
get hurt.

The goons keep moving forward. Mocking smiles on their faces.

TOM
(To Jane)
No Jane! That would be a big mistake!
Run away, girl!

MARCOS
(To Tom)
Shut up!

CARLIN slashes the air with the knife. JONES makes a similar gesture.
They move close to JANE. Thrust the knives forward. She pulls the
TRIGGER... Once... Twice!

114
 TOM
Oh no!

Weird mechanical sound, followed by electronic BEEPS!

CARLIN staggers. JONES lunges backwards. Both fall down on the floor.
Knocked out.

LUKE
It worked!

TOM
It worked?

JANE
Yay! It worked!

MARCOS
(Bewildered)
What worked?

TOM's elbow connects with MARCOS's belly with force. The drug-lord
doubles over in pain. SHRIEKS. Looses the automatic. TOM pushes
LUKE.

TOM
(To the Boys)
To the storeroom... run!

JANE comes in, waving the SSG. She clings to TOM.

JANE
Oh Tom! Thank god you're safe!

TOM
Yeah. But how did you get in? And how
did this thing work?

JANE
Well, I made a small change in the circuit.
It was the chip, you see. A faulty one. But
now it's perfect. I tested it on the guards
at the front.

TOM
You are wonderful, honey.

115
A MOVEMENT behind JANE. It's LUKE. He has a CHAIR in his hands.
Swings it, aiming JANE's head.

TOM (CONT'D)
(Yells)
Look out!

Pushes JANE aside. The chair misses her head. Strikes her shoulder
with a THUD!

JANE yells in pain. Goes down.

TOM glares at LUKE. Enraged. Furious. He flings himself on the

mobster. They roll down on the floor.

LUKE tries to get on his feet. TOM pulls him down again. They grab and
punch at each other. TOM is unstoppable.

TOM pushes LUKE with power. LUKE hits the wall. Staggers. Holds his
head. TOM picks up a CHAIR. Holds it high in the air. Towers over LUKE.

LUKE looks up. TOM is about to bash his head.

LUKE
(Pleads)
Please... Don't.

TOM looks down at the cowering LUKE. Their eyes meet. Fear and
plead in LUKE's eyes. Rage and madness in TOM's.

Then, very slowly, TOM lowers the chair. His face changes. The rage
diminishes, replaced by pity. He is more composed now. Throws the
chair away. Turns around. Walks up to JANE who is still lying
unconscious on the floor.

Sits by her side. Takes her head into his lap.

TOM
(To Jane)
Get up, honey. Let's go home.

LUKE gets up on his feet. Finds MARCOS still bent over with pain. Then
he spots the automatic.

He scampers to get it. COMMOTION at the back of the cafeteria. Yells

and shouts. He picks up the automatic.

116
A posse of boys in LAKE CITY BASEBALL TEAM UNIFORM pours into the
hall. KEVIN in the lead.

LUKE turns. Raises the automatic. Aims at TOM who is sitting beside
JANE. Oblivious. A devilish grin crosses LUKE's face.

LUKE
So long, handyman!

Fingers close in on the trigger. Then, notices a movement behind him.

Something goes up in the air and then comes down. On his wrist.
CRACK!

LUKE yells with pain. The automatic falls from his hand. He grabs his
wrist with his other hand.

KEVIN
Out of the park! Home run!

The boy swings his bat in the air. LUKE looks at him. Astonished. Then
yells again with pain.

MARCOS looks at the invading team. The drug-lord puts his hands in
the air.

MARCOS
(To Kevin)
Were you in the kitchen too?

KEVIN
(To Marcos)
What? How did you know that I was in
the kitchen this morning to get mom's
cookies? It is Billy, isn't it?

MARCOS
These people are crazy! This place is
crazy! I'm ruined!

WAILING of the SIRENS of POLICE CARS approaching the cafeteria.

EXT. OUTSIDE THE SCHOOL CAFETERIA - DAY

POLICE CARS with FLASHING LIGHTS parked in front of the cafeteria.

BILLY's MOM and AARON's PARENTS stand there. Anxious. Concerned.
Scared.

117
JESSICA is with them. Nervous.

The front door opens. BILLY and AARON come out with a COP. The kids
run to their parents. Moms hug the boys with teary eyes. Aaron gets a
rap on his head from his dad. The man is smiling. Relieved.

BILLY makes a THUMBS-up sign at JESSICA. The girl grins.

With a loud cheer, TOM and JANE come out. The Baseball team
surrounds them. STANTON follows with KEVIN. A MAN in a DARK SUITE,
standing near the police cars, walks up to STANTON.

TOM and JANE go to the kids.

TOM
(To the kids)
You guys are okay? Gave us a scare, you
two.

BILLY
(To Tom)
Yes. We did it Tom! We did it. I knew my
plan would work.

TOM
(To Billy)
Your plan? What was that?

BILLY
(Sly grin)
I'd planned to get caught. I knew you'd
come and rescue us when Jess tells you.

TOM sits on his haunches before the little boy. They look at each other.
Smiling eyes.

TOM
That was a hell of a risky plan, Billy. You
could have been hurt.

BILLY
Super heroes always save the day, don't
they? I knew you'd too.

TOM hugs the boy.

TOM
Sure they do, Billy.

118
COPS push the GOONS inside the waiting cars. JONES gets in, still
dazed. A cop pushes CARLIN. His nose hits the door of the car.

CARLIN
Eeoooouw! My Nose!

JONES
Oh shut up, three of you!

STANTON and the MAN in the suite walks up to TOM and JANE.

STANTON
Tom, Jane, meet agent Elliot, FBI.

ELLIOT shakes hands with both.

ELLIOT
Good Job, Mr. and Mrs. Riddley.

TOM
(To Elliot)
Call us Tom and Jane.

ELLIOT
Okay, Tom. You did a hell of a job in
there. We're after those gangsters for a
long time.

LUKE and MARCOS come out of the cafeteria. Handcuffed. Surrounded

by the cops. Chief MARSHALL leads them to the police car.

MARCOS gets in the car without resistance. LUKE stops. Turns.

LUKE
(Yells at Tom)
I'll be back, Riddley. And when I see you
next-

MARSHALL
(To Luke)
You'll be walking with the help of a stick.
Now get in, Hammond.

With all the GOONS secured, the police cars start to move along the
street. The baseball team gives a short chase, waving bats. Then they
come back to join TOM and the others.

ELLIOT

119
 (To Jane)
Jane, would you mind telling me how did
you knock off those guys?

JANE
Oh, it's just one of my silly gadgets - the
super stun gun.

ELLIOT
(To Jane)
Well, I think that the bureau will be
interested in the gun. They may even
buy the prototype.

JANE
(To Elliot)
You think so?

ELLIOT
(To Jane)
Yes, ma'am. And I would like to any
anymore silly gadgets that you have.

JANE
(To Elliot)
You're welcome, agent Elliot.
(To Tom)
Oh Tom! Did you hear him? Isn't this
fantastic?

TOM
(To Jane)
Sure is. But fantastic things happen to
fantastic people, you know.

STANTON
I agree. Ladies and Gentlemen, let's hear
it for Tom and Jane, the super heroes of
Lake City.

A huge round of applause and cheers. KEVIN and his mates pick up
TOM on their shoulders and start a merry procession. Everyone else
join them.

BILLY, AARON and JESSICA smile at each other.

JESSICA

120
 (To Billy)
You know, you're right, Billy. Super heroes
are for real.

AARON
(To Jessica)
Yeah. How come you realized it so late?
You see me everyday.

JESSICA rolls her eyes. BILLY laughs.

EXT. ROOF-TOP, LAKE CITY SCHOOL - DAY

High on the roof-top, a SHADOWY FIGURE watches the procession on

the street. Clad in ARMORED SUITE, HOOD, CAPE, GLOVES and BOOTS.
A UTILITY BELT strapped around its waist.

The figure looks on at the procession for a while. Turns. A SYMBOL of

BAT on his chest. Eyes sparkle. Smiles. Flings his cape.

FADE OUT.

ENDING CREDITS ROLL...

121