The Last Enemy/Transcript

Hook
EXT. MOONBASE ALPHA (SFX)

4.INT. MAIN MISSION

The staff look up at the Big Screen.

-Big Screen (SFX, sc 5/6): a white sun & 2 planets either side.

-Main Mission (sc 9): Koenig & Helena stand behind Paul, with Victor in front.

KOENIG: "Two planets."

DAVID (turns desk round): "We'll be in range to survey the left hand planet in twenty four hours."

SANDRA: "Still too distant for visual analysis, but the spectrographic analysis looks promising."

HELENA: "Two planets. It would be nice to have a choice, wouldn't it?"

EXT. SPACE (SFX)

The 2 planets, the blue one nearest.

1.EXT. PLANET SURFACE (SFX)

Pan over gorge to a tower & building ((matte shot))

3.INT. BETHAN ROOM

Dione walks up as Theia appears on the screen with a temple bell chime.

THEIA: "Dione. The council has decided. Unanimously. We strike. We strike first before the travelling moon gets any closer."

DIONE: "Excellent. We've waited a long time for this."

INT. MAIN MISSION

Victor tears a readout from Computer & walks down to Koenig.

VICTOR: "Here we are, John. The data on the left hand planet. It's inhabited."

They look up to the screen.

KOENIG: "Paul. Begin contact procedure." ((Paul types))

EXT. SPACE (SFX)

The north east horizon of the Moon approaches the star & 2 planets.

10.INT. BETHAN ROOM

Dione sits on the floor, moving 'space solitaire' counters on a small table.

THEIA (on screen): "The Moon is approaching strike position."

DIONE: "Perfect. I want Satazius programmed for immediate launch."

THEIA: "Your crew is aboard and waiting, Dione. This may be our last chance. You must not fail."

EXT. SPACE (SFX)

Two small craft by Satazius.

INT. SATAZIUS

Dione enters through a hatch & walks past the 2 girls, standing to attention.

GIRL 1: "Dione."

GIRL 2: "Dione."

GIRL 3 (walks up): "We've picked up a signal from the travelling moon, Dione."

Dione goes to a console & waves her hand over it: a pinging is heard.

DIONE: "Ignore it. Touch down and assault will be as planned." ((they take positions)) "Standby for launch." ((buzzing)) "Launch." ((all sway to the side))

EXT. SPACE (SFX)

Satazius leaves the two small craft.

INT. SATAZIUS

The floor straightens.

GIRL 3 (walks forward): "Satazius on course for the Moon."

GIRL 1: "Check"

GIRL 2: "Check."

EXT. SPACE (SFX)

Satazius leaves planet horizon

69.INT. MAIN MISSION

They all look up at the screen.

VICTOR: "Those two planets revolve round the sun "

-Big Screen (SFX):

VICTOR (VO): " always on opposing sides and the remarkable thing "

-Main Mission:

VICTOR: " is that neither planet is visible to the other."

SANDRA (sc 13): "Commander. Powered object approaching."

DAVID: "It's a ship. Battleship size. A colossus."

KOENIG (sc 21): "Activate defence screens. Alan. Put all Eagles on launch pads. Red alert." Nonessential staff move swiftly to the door arch.

EXT. SPACE (SFX)

Satazius (underside view)

FADE OUT

ACT ONE
23.INT. CORRIDOR

Pull out from 'Red Alert' flashing on comms post screen. Alphans move swiftly past (an arm waves on to left). Camera pulls back into Travel unit as 3 suited pilots run up the corridor & enter, closing the door.

24.INT. TRAVEL TUBE (SFX)

Unit speeds off.

25.EXT. LAUNCH PAD (SFX)

Eagle raised to surface.

28.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX)

Force field tower radiates a blue aura.

INT. MAIN MISSION

PAUL: "All defence systems activated, Commander."

KOENIG: "Good."

EXT. SPACE (SFX)

Satazius leaves Betha, a waxing crescent beyond.

INT. SATAZIUS

GIRL 3: "Dione. They've activated their defence systems."

DIONE (walks forward): "Analyse them and keep monitoring." ((starts back))

INT. MAIN MISSION

KOENIG: "Any response from that alien ship yet?"

PAUL: "Nothing yet. No response at all. I've tried all frequencies. Still no contact."

KOENIG (sc 31): "Alan, I want every Eagle airborne as soon as possible."

ALAN: "The last ones are moving to the launch pads now, sir. I'm on my way."

-Big Screen (SFX, sc 32/33): Satazius front view, approaching.

KOENIG (VO): "Keep spread out. Approach it together. As soon as you're in range I want every Eagle to fire simultaneously."

-Main Mission (sc 34):

KOENIG: "Against that it's our only hope. Go."

ALAN: "Yes, sir." ((leaves. Koenig walks up steps to Victor))

VICTOR ((they look at screen)): "This isn't quite your style, is it, John? Shoot first and ask questions afterward?"

KOENIG: "We've been asking questions, Victor. They haven't answered. Look at the size of it."

-Big Screen (SFX):

KOENIG (VO): "It's either got an army inside it or enough firepower to blast us out of existence with one blow."

-Main Mission:

KOENIG: "No, their purpose has got to be aggressive."

VICTOR: "Well, if it's not now it soon will be if we start shooting at them."

KOENIG: "What are you suggesting, we wait, wait to find out? No, Victor, I can't risk it." ((he goes to his desk))

35.EXT. LAUNCH PAD (SFX)

Tube retracts from Eagle.

36.INT. EAGLE PILOT SECTION

PILOT 5: "Eagle Five ready for lift off."

37.INT. MAIN MISSION

PAUL: "Eagle Five hold."

PILOT 2: "Eagle Two ready for lift off."

PAUL: "Eagle Two hold."

39.INT. EAGLE PILOT SECTION

ALAN: "Eagle One ready for lift off."

40.INT. MAIN MISSION

PAUL: "Hold, Eagle One." ((types)) "That's it, Alan. All Eagles ready for lift off."

ALAN (VO): "Thanks, Paul."

INT. SATAZIUS

GIRL 3: "On alert, moving to attack position."

DIONE (to girls 1 & 2): "Neutralise all Eagles."

41.INT. EAGLE PILOT SECTION

ALAN: "Eagle One to all Eagles. After lift off centre on me above Beacon Four."

43.EXT. LAUNCH PAD (SFX)

Eagle fires engines, but does not rise.

44.INT. EAGLE PILOT SECTION

ALAN: "Eagle One to base. I have no lift off."

45.INT. MAIN MISSION

KOENIG (walking up behind Paul): "What's going on?"

PAUL: "I can't get lift off."

KOENIG: "Try automatic."

PAUL: "Base to Eagle. Stand by for controlled lift off."

46.EXT. LAUNCH PAD (SFX)

Eagle fires engines.

47.INT. EAGLE PILOT SECTION

ALAN: "No go. All systems check. All the dual systems check."

48.INT. MAIN MISSION

ALAN (VO): "All the safety cut outs are functioning correctly."

PAUL: "Trying again, Alan."

PILOT 2 (VO): "Eagle Two to base, I have no lift off."

PAUL: "Base to Eagle Two. Stand by for controlled lift off."

EXT. SPACE (SFX)

Satazius travels to the east horizon of the Moon.

48.INT. MAIN MISSION

PILOT 5 (VO): "Eagle five to base. I have no lift off."

PAUL: "Base to all Eagles. Stand by for controlled lift off."

49.EXT. LAUNCH PAD (SFX)

Combat Eagle fires engines (low front view)

Combat Eagle fires engines (high view)

Combat Eagle fires engines (3/4 view)

51.INT. MAIN MISSION

Paul operates remote control.

52.EXT. LAUNCH PAD (SFX)

Combat Eagle engines die (low front view)

Combat Eagle engines die (high view)

Combat Eagle engines die (3/4 view)

53.INT. MAIN MISSION

PAUL: "No go. We can't get them off."

KOENIG: "It's impossible. All the Eagles? What the hell is going on?"

INT. SATAZIUS

GIRL 3: "Attack force Eagles now out of action."

Dione turns from the girl (to camera) & smiles.

56.INT. MAIN MISSION

KOENIG: "Kano. Give me the computer breakdown on that ship." DAVID: "Coming through now, Commander." ((rips off readout & turns desk)) "The gyromagnetic ratio has an anomalous factor two when applied to electron spin. The Landé g-factor expresses the... But that isn't what I want." ((takes another readout)) "Gyromagnetic has an anomalous factor.. Commander, computer's going haywire."

58.INT. EAGLE PILOT SECTION ALAN: "Eagle One to base. I've still no lift off."

59.INT. MAIN MISSION KOENIG: "Alan, we're getting some kind of interference. It's affecting computer. It's probably some kind of ultrasonic magnetic distortion."

EXT. SPACE (SFX) Satazius travels to moon.

INT. SATAZIUS GIRL 3: "Coming into the range of the Moon defensive screens." DIONE (walks up to girls): "Deactivate."

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) The blue glow fades from the tower.

INT. MAIN MISSION SANDRA: "Commander. Our defensive screens. They have been deactivated." DAVID: "Fluctuating power loss. Our communication systems are also knocked out."

INT. EAGLE PILOT SECTION ALAN (as radio heard crackling): "Eagle One to base. I do not read you. I do not read you. Come in, base."

EXT. LAUNCH PAD (SFX) Combat Eagle (high view) ALAN (VO): "Eagle One to base, you must get us lift off."

61.INT. MAIN MISSION

The monitors show interference; the small screens display 'Red Alert' (sc 61) KOENIG (sc 60): "Paul. Can you clear Alan?" PAUL: "It's out of my control." HELENA (walks up): "I need emergency power in the Medical unit." The wall lights die. KOENIG: "Paul, switch to emergency power." PAUL: "Yes, sir."

EXT. SPACE (SFX) Satazius moves over lunar hills.

65.EXT. MAIN MISSION Koenig & Helena walk to the viewports (view in)

67.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Satazius moves over lunar hills.

74.INT. MAIN MISSION KOENIG: "Seems to be slowing down." VICTOR: "You think they're going to land?" KOENIG: "Could be. Paul. The communications systems. Are they functioning yet?" PAUL: "No, sir, they're not." KOENIG: "Kano. What's the computer's situation?" DAVID: "Malfunctioning, sir." KOENIG (sc 78): "Sandra. Any change on the defence screens?" SANDRA: "Negative, Commander."

81.EXT. MOONBASE ALPHA (SFX) Satazius moves over base

82.INT. EAGLE PILOT SECTION Alan looks out & up

EXT. SPACE (SFX) Satazius moving over

82.INT. EAGLE PILOT SECTION ALAN: "Holy cow."

86.EXT. MAIN MISSION Paul, David & Sandra go to viewports (view in)

85.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Satazius lowers.

INT. MAIN MISSION CU Koenig watches.

85.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Satazius lowers over surface.

INT. MAIN MISSION CU Helena looks at Victor.

86.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Satazius lands.

INT. MAIN MISSION Koenig brings down binoculars from his desk & joins Helena & Victor looking out

98.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Satazius on surface.

INT. SATAZIUS DIONE: "Activate scanners."

100.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) CU two petal radar dishes extending up & traversing space sky.

INT. SATAZIUS GIRL 2: "No sign of enemy activity." DIONE: "Activate missile launcher."

101.INT. MAIN MISSION Koenig lowers his binoculars

102.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) CU four barrelled missile launcher being raised (sc 102/103)

104.INT. MAIN MISSION Koenig raises his binoculars as the others back from the viewports.

INT. SATAZIUS DIONE: "Lock on target."

105.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Missile launcher rises.

106.INT. MAIN MISSION High view: Koenig drops to the floor & others follow (sc 106/107) KOENIG: "Everyone down."

INT. SATAZIUS GIRL 3: "Weapons ranged and ready to fire." DIONE: "Standby."

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) The missile launcher fires twice

110.INT. MAIN MISSION The staff lie as 6 thunderous blasts sound (sc 111, high view of light flashing over them; sc 112-115 CUs of Koenig, Helena, Victor, Paul & Sandra). High view (sc 116) Victor & others rise. Koenig goes to the viewports & looks at the others. KOENIG (sc 120): "It wasn't aimed at us. They were firing over us." (sc 121) Koenig runs up to the balcony carrying his binoculars & looks out.

122.EXT. SPACE (SFX) Betha (POV in binoculars); scan to right, past sun

INT. MAIN MISSION Helena & Victor join Koenig.

122.EXT. SPACE (SFX) POV in binoculars: pan past sun to Delta. CU Delta: pin pricks of light momentarily flare.

INT. MAIN MISSION KOENIG (lowers binoculars): "It's bombarding the right hand planet."

INT. SATAZIUS GIRL 3: "No response from the Deltan planet yet." DIONE (walks up): "They will. And the moment they do, pinpoint their firing positions."

123.INT. MAIN MISSION KOENIG (lowers binoculars again): "That ship comes from the planet on the left, lands on the Moon and attacks the second planet, the one on the right." VICTOR (sc 124/125): "Mm. Those two planets are on opposite sides of their sun. They cannot see each other because of the much bigger sun in between. They can't fire at each other directly, because any kind of missile would be drawn into the sun's gravity. So, the arrival of our Moon has provided them with a nice ready made gun platform in space, right, John?" KOENIG: "Yeah. What the hell have we got ourselves into?" (looks through binoculars)

FADE OUT

ACT TWO
119.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) CU launcher.

INT. SATAZIUS GIRL 3 (turns): "Dione. Missiles. From Delta." DIONE: "Track them."

INT. MAIN MISSION PAUL (at desk): "Commander! Missile attack, from the planet on the right." KOENIG (on balcony, lowers binoculars): "Trajectory?"

128.EXT. SPACE (SFX) Missile leaves Delta. 2 missiles in space.

INT. SATAZIUS GIRL 3: "Deltan missiles on random trajectory." DIONE: "The Deltans have not located our position. Perfect. Standby to fire."

130.INT. MAIN MISSION Low angle from Paul up to Koenig walking up to balcony rail KOENIG: "Paul. All nonessential personnel to deep shelters." PAUL: "Main Mission to all sections Alpha. All nonessential personnel to the deep shelters." ((types)) "All Eagles to bunkers." KOENIG (sc 132): "And you three get down."

Stairwell: Victor, Helena & Koenig run down from the balcony (doubling for Alphans descending to deep shelters)

EXT. LAUNCH PAD (SFX) Eagle descends below surface (from side) Eagle descends below surface (3/4 view)

INT. MAIN MISSION Dozens of Alphans descend the stairs from the balcony (doubling for Alphans descending to deep shelters)

EXT. LAUNCH PAD (SFX) Eagle descends below surface (as first Eagle's descent)

EXT. SPACE (SFX) 2 missiles, 3rd passing foreground

134.INT. MAIN MISSION Koenig joins Victor & Helena lying down on balcony.

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Launcher fires.

INT. MAIN MISSION Paul & Sandra lying down; David; Helena.

EXT. SPACE (SFX) A Deltan missile

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Explosion.

INT. MAIN MISSION Koenig; Victor

INT. SATAZIUS GIRL 3: "Deltan missiles range four nine two."

EXT. SPACE (SFX) Deltan missile

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Explosion.

INT. MAIN MISSION Paul; Sandra

INT. SATAZIUS GIRL 3: "Deltan missiles zeroing in at range two six four."

EXT. SPACE (SFX) Missiles.

135.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Satazius: explosion beyond it.

INT. SATAZIUS They are thrown by shockwave

152.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Explosion over Satazius

138.INT. MAIN MISSION Koenig gets up & walks down from the balcony, crossing to the viewports to use his binoculars. The others join him (sc 138/139/140/154)

158.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) CU blackened Satazius

159.INT. MAIN MISSION KOENIG: "Paul. Check for damage." ((they go to their desks)) ALAN (VO): "Eagle One to base. Eagle One to base. Do you read me?" PAUL: "Base to Eagle One. We read you. Come in, Eagle One."

160.INT. EAGLE PILOT SECTION PAUL (VO): "Are you alright?" ALAN: "All okay. The shooting match is over, eh?"

161.INT. MAIN MISSION PAUL: "Seems to be. For the moment." KOENIG (quietly): "See he has lift off." PAUL: "Eagle One, prepare for life off."

162.INT. EAGLE PILOT SECTION ALAN: "Copy."

EXT. LAUNCH PAD (SFX) Eagle raised to surface by buggy.

164.INT. MAIN MISSION KOENIG: "Alan. Go and take a look at that spaceship."

INT. EAGLE PILOT SECTION KOENIG (VO): "Check for damage. Don't get too close. At the first sign of trouble, pull out." ALAN: "Copy."

163.EXT. LAUNCH PAD (SFX) Eagle launches (side view)

EXT. MAIN MISSION Koenig walks to Helena & Victor at the viewport & raises his binoculars (view in)

165.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Small Eagle flies over Satazius.

167.INT. EAGLE PILOT SECTION ALAN: "I'm circling the spaceship now. Looks pretty knocked out to me."

168.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Eagle hovers over Satazius.

167.INT. EAGLE PILOT SECTION ALAN: "No signs of life."

169.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) CU as lifeboat raised out of Satazius.

EXT. MAIN MISSION Koenig, with Helena & Victor, raises his binoculars again (view in)

172.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) CU lifeboat raised onto surface of ship.

170.INT. MAIN MISSION KOENIG (lowers binoculars & looks round): "Paul. Get him out of there quick." PAUL: "Base to Eagle One. Pull out, Alan."

171.INT. EAGLE PILOT SECTION PAUL (VO): "Pull out." ALAN: "Copy."

172.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Eagle leaves Satazius. CU lifeboat lifting off from Satazius.

173.INT. MAIN MISSION KOENIG (walking to Paul's desk): "Paul. Sandra. Try and make contact with it. Maybe we can get through now. Kano, test that capsule for any radiation or emission." DAVID: "Yes, sir." -Big Screen (SFX): lifeboat flies over surface. HELENA (VO): "It's coming towards us." KOENIG (VO): "Yeah. I don't like it." -Main Mission: VICTOR: "Probably some sort of escape craft." ((Koenig looks at him))

176.EXT. LAUNCH PAD (SFX) Lifeboat lands.

175.INT. MAIN MISSION VICTOR: "Are you going to let them in?" KOENIG: "How else can we find out what's going on?" VICTOR: "It could be dangerous." KOENIG: "Yeah. They didn't fire their big guns at us when they had the chance. Sandra. Paul. Any contact?" PAUL: "No." SANDRA: "No, Commander." KOENIG: "Kano?" DAVID: "No radiation hazard. All clear." KOENIG: "Alright, Paul. Open the airlock to Launch Pad Ten." ((Paul types)) "Keep Eagle One up there, until that capsule's inside the airlock. Also, I want three security guards standing by. Helena, Victor, let's go." ((they leave)) PAUL: "Main Mission to Security. Three personnel to Launch Pad Ten."

177.EXT. LAUNCH PAD (SFX) Pad descends with lifeboat.

178.INT. TRAVEL TUBE (SFX) Unit stops.

181.INT. ACCESS BAY (SFX) Triangular door raises to reveal lifeboat.

INT. AIRLOCK The Travel Unit door opens & Koenig leads 3 guards & Helena & Victor out of it. The illuminated sign (sc 180) changes from 'Low' to 'Balanced'. KOENIG (sc 183): "Stand ready." The door opens to reveal Dione, in black motorcycling gear. She removes her helmet. Victor glances at Helena (sc 180). Dione offers her gun.

INT. MAIN MISSION KOENIG: "You ask sanctuary of us?" DIONE: "Not ask, Commander. Demand." KOENIG: "Demand! It's your aggressive actions which have put this base in danger, in jeopardy. No. You've no rights here. None." DIONE: "Then I have nothing to say." ((Koenig walks down to Helena & Victor)) KOENIG: "Alright. We'll escort you back to your escape craft. Take her away." 2 guards take her arms & bring her down the steps, passing them; she stops DIONE: "Wait. Think, Commander. I have already demonstrated the power of my ship. We have many ships. We could overwhelm you. If you gave us cause." KOENIG: "Maybe. But you won't be around to see it. Take her away." DIONE: "Listen to me. If you send me off to space, you will destroy any chance of survival for your people." KOENIG: "We want no part of this war." DIONE: "It's too late, Commander. We used your Moon to attack Delta. They will come here seeking revenge. If you want to live... " ((she looks round at Helena & Paul behind her)) "All of you... You need my help." KOENIG: "You give me no choice." ((he walks away)) DIONE: "I'm glad you agree, Commander." She walks after him. Paul turns to his desk, leaving Helena

193.INT. COMMAND OFFICE Dione sits at the Command table with Koenig, Helena & Victor. KOENIG: "Who are you?" DIONE: "My name is Dione. I am the commander of the gunship Satazius. My ship is now inoperable and I am the only survivor. Thank you, Commander, for taking me in. I would only have lived for a short while. It was not our intention to involve you." KOENIG: "But you did. And right now we're smack in the middle of your war."

DIONE: "We were concerned only with using this travelling Moon as a site for our gunships. We calculated your approach and carefully planned a preemptive strike against our enemies. We hoped that it would be quick and decisive, but somehow they anticipated our plans. It seems they were ready for our attack." HELENA: "Enemies usually are." DIONE: "You will understand the problems of fighting a war from opposite sides of our sun: we have no direct line of fire to our targets. We had to have a base out in space to be able to bring massive firepower to bear. Many years ago we tried to use a passing asteroid as a base unsuccessfully. It was too small for our purposes." HELENA: "Many years ago? How long have you been at war?" DIONE: "We have always been at war."

INT. MAIN MISSION Alan wanders to a viewport. David takes a report sheet to Paul; they look at Alan PAUL: "What is it, Alan?" ALAN (returns): "I could have sworn that ship was completely knocked out." PAUL: "Well, isn't it?" ALAN: "Well, that escape craft managed to get out okay. I don't know." PAUL: "So there was one survivor. What's so bad about that?" Alan looks up at the closed command office doors, then back ALAN: "I don't know." ((he wanders off))

INT. COMMAND OFFICE Sandra appears on comms post screen (sc 194); Koenig gets up & goes to it SANDRA: "Commander? Spaceship approaching Alpha." PAUL (replaces her on screen, sc 192): "Shall I launch the Eagles, Commander?" DIONE: "Your Eagle will be no match for them. The Deltan gunships have the same capability as ours. You must not get involved." KOENIG: "Involved? We are involved. Now what are you suggesting, we sit around and do nothing? I must at least take up defensive positions." DIONE: "You must remain neutral." KOENIG (quiet): "I would love to remain neutral." ((harsh)) "But my idea of neutrality is not being a sitting duck and being shot at by both sides." DIONE: "Commander, your weapons are useless against that ship. You must do as I say." KOENIG (using comlock): "Paul." PAUL (VO): "Commander." KOENIG: "Keep all Eagles on standby positions." PAUL (VO): "Yes sir."

195.EXT. COMMAND OFFICE Koenig walks to the viewports, followed by Helena & Victor. Dione looks round from her seat (view in)

197.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Deltan ship lowers over surface.

198.INT. COMMAND OFFICE DIONE: "Commander. If you will allow me a communications link I will contact Military Command and call up reinforcements to protect Alpha." KOENIG (sc 199): "Protect Alpha? What do you care about Alpha? You send up reinforcements, they send up reinforcements. You fire at their reinforcements, they fire at your reinforcements. Now where the hell are we? We're the little guy in the middle. No, thank you, lady. It's not our war."

EXT. COMMAND OFFICE Koenig turns to look out the viewport (view in)

197.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Deltan gunship lowers to settle on the lunar surface.

FADE OUT

ACT THREE
200.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Deltan gunship. CU section of gunship as a missile launcher is raised.

201.EXT. COMMAND OFFICE KOENIG: "Everyone down!" Koenig & Dione beyond drop below the viewport (view in)

202.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) CU launcher rising. CU launcher barrel: it fires.

204.INT. COMMAND OFFICE High view as they lie on floor

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) CU launcher firing again.

204.INT. COMMAND OFFICE

EXT. SPACE (SFX) Missiles in flight.

206.INT. COMMAND OFFICE High view. Koenig looks up & they rise

EXT. SPACE (SFX) 3 Deltan missiles fly to Betha.

206.INT. COMMAND OFFICE They head to the doors, Koenig opening them with his desk

207.INT. MAIN MISSION They enter Main Mission by the 2 guards, still recovering -Big Screen (SFX, sc 208/209): CU Betha as pin pricks of light flash -Main Mission (sc 212): Koenig & Dione KOENIG: "Your turn next." DIONE: "Of course. Our people will destroy the enemy gunship." KOENIG: "Then you send in reinforcements to continue the battle, right?" PAUL: "Missiles, from Betha!"

213.EXT. SPACE (SFX) 3 missiles fly from Betha.

214.INT. MAIN MISSION KOENIG: "You don't have to miss by much to hit Alpha."

EXT. SPACE (SFX) 3 Bethan missiles.

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) CU launcher firing.

214.INT. MAIN MISSION Victor & Helena stagger. Dione & Koenig fall together

EXT. SPACE (SFX) 3 Bethan missiles.

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) CU launcher firing.

214.INT. MAIN MISSION Victor & Helena on floor

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Lunar hills explode. Deltan ship explodes. More lunar hills explode.

216.INT. MAIN MISSION Koenig & Dione rise. Victor & Helena rise, Victor holding her up. Koenig walks into the office, followed by Dione

216.INT. COMMAND OFFICE Koenig walks down to the viewports with his binoculars

215.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Smoking Deltan ship.

216.INT. COMMAND OFFICE DIONE: "How many are you on Alpha, Commander?" KOENIG (still looking through binoculars): "About three hundred." DIONE: "Can your Eagle vehicles hold them all?" KOENIG (turns to her): "Just about. What are you getting at?" DIONE (putting her hand on his arm): "What is, um, happening to you was never our intention." Main Mission: Helena & Victor glance at each other KOENIG (VO): "So you told me." DIONE (VO): "I understand your anger." ((-Office)) "It's natural also that you should blame me. I, ah, I would like to help you." KOENIG (slight pause): "How?" DIONE: "Put your people aboard the Eagles. If Alpha is hit then they'll be ready to fly to my planet. We'd welcome...all of you." Main Mission: Helena walks off, followed by Victor

217.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) CU Deltan launcher firing

218.INT. COMMAND OFFICE Koenig & Dione drop.

EXT. SPACE (SFX) Deltan missiles rise.

220.INT. COMMAND OFFICE 2 more launches heard. They crouch below the viewport DIONE: "You agree?"

230.INT. MAIN MISSION SANDRA (at desk): "Missile launch from planet Betha."

229.EXT. SPACE (SFX) Missile leaves Betha.

INT. COMMAND OFFICE Koenig gets up & walks off

EXT. SPACE (SFX) Bethan missile.

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Deltan launcher turns.

231.INT. MAIN MISSION Dione looks to Koenig. Koenig looks forward. Helena.

EXT. SPACE (SFX) Bethan missile.

233.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) CU Deltan launcher.

INT. MAIN MISSION Long shot from front as all staff stand, waiting

235.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Deltan ship explodes.

INT. MAIN MISSION PAUL (pleased): "They've destroyed the Deltan gunship. Direct hit." Dione.

237.INT. COMMAND OFFICE Koenig walks away from the office viewports; Dione, Helena & Victor follow KOENIG (sc 238): "Well, we're back to square one. Dione's gunship is knocked out, the enemy gunship is destroyed." VICTOR (sc 239): "Yes. The end of round one." HELENA: "Now what are we going to do? Sit around and wait for round two?" KOENIG: "No. I think we can be effective, finally." HELENA: "How?" KOENIG (sc 240): "By calling it a draw, and negotiating a cease fire." DIONE: "A cease fire?" KOENIG: "You said you wanted to help us? Well, a cease fire would help us. And frankly it would help you too." DIONE (paces): "Well, we don't usually consider such a thing. But our plan for a quick decisive victory relied on the element of surprise. We no longer have that advantage. Our plan has failed. Of course, I'd have to consult with my Supreme Command. I can arrange a communications link to put you in touch with both planets." KOENIG: "Good." Koenig goes to the doors & opens them with his desk

241.INT. MAIN MISSION Dione walks up behind him KOENIG: "Kano. I want you to programme our communications system to open a link with both planets. Dione will give you the specifics." ((she walks forward))

240.INT. COMMAND OFFICE Victor & Helena walk up the steps to Koenig. They talk quietly VICTOR: "John. Even if this doesn't work, it will be valuable to gain some time. Every hour Alpha's moving further and further away. It won't be long before we're no more use to them." KOENIG: "How long?" VICTOR: "Ooh,..'bout four hours." KOENIG: "Let's keep them talking."

248..INT. MAIN MISSION Dione stands behind David as he types. Koenig leads Helena & Victor to the top of the steps -Big Screen (SFX, sc 248): with a bell toll an old man appears. TALOS (on screen): "This is Talos, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces of the planet Delta." -Main Mission (sc 249): Koenig goes down to Paul, followed by Helena & Victor KOENIG: "I'm John Koenig, Commander of Moonbase Alpha." -Big Screen (SFX, sc 248): TALOS: "What do you have to communicate?"

-Main Mission (sc 249): KOENIG: "I'm responsible for the lives of the people on this base. Through no fault of ours, we have become involved in your war. As long as the fighting continues our lives are in extreme jeopardy." -Big Screen (SFX, sc 250): KOENIG (VO): "I ask for a cease fire." TALOS: "I appreciate your predicament. We did not start this war." -Main Mission: Dione. TALOS (VO): "We were attacked treacherously and without warning." -Big Screen (SFX, sc 250): TALOS: "The enemy gunship on your Moon had to be destroyed." -Main Mission (sc 252): KOENIG: "Your gunship came to our Moon and was itself destroyed." -Big Screen (SFX): KOENIG (VO): "Heavy losses must have been caused on both planets." -Main Mission (sc 252): KOENIG: "You have had your revenge. I ask for a cease fire." -Big Screen (SFX): Talos. -Main Mission (sc 253): Dione. Helena & Victor. Koenig. -Big Screen (SFX, sc 254): TALOS: "I will place your request before the Praesidium." -Main Mission as doorbell chime heard (sc 256) KOENIG (looks back at Helena & Victor): "At least we're talking. Dione. Contact your commander." Dione types & the doorbell chimes again (sc 257) -Big Screen (SFX, sc 261): Theia appears THEIA: "I am Theia, Chief Commissioner of Bethan Defence. We are fighting a war. Please be brief." -Main Mission (sc 262): KOENIG: "Commissioner Theia. I am John Koenig-" -Big Screen (SFX, sc 263): THEIA: "I know who you are. I have been listening to your discussion " -Main Mission (sc 264): Koenig. THEIA (VO): " with Supreme Commander Talos." KOENIG: "Then you are aware that I'm asking for a cease fire." -Big Screen (SFX, sc 265): THEIA: "We have been accused of starting this war." -Main Mission (sc 266): Dione THEIA (VO): "We did not. It was started long before we struck the first blow. They were unreasonable. They have always been unreasonable. But we are a reasonable people. You have asked for a cease fire." -Big Screen (SFX, sc 267): THEIA: "We agree to a cease fire. If Talos also agrees, then we can discuss the terms." ((screen blanks with chime)) -Main Mission (sc 268): Dione -Big Screen (SFX, sc 270): Talos appears TALOS: "Commander Koenig. We would agree to a cease fire, " -Main Mission (sc 271): TALOS (VO): " if it could be properly supervised." KOENIG: "We can police a cease fire. Because of our position here we can see both planets. We will give an early warning, if there's a spaceship launched from either planet." -Big Screen (SFX, sc 272): KOENIG (VO): "Is that acceptable?" TALOS: "Not quite. The Bethans started the war, " -Main Mission: Koenig, Dione. TALOS (VO): " or be it they called it a preemptive strike. We want to launch a second gunship." -Big Screen (SFX): TALOS: "But we will hold it in orbit around our planet." -Main Mission: KOENIG: "What you're saying is that if the cease fire breaks down, " -Big Screen (SFX): KOENIG (VO): " you want a military advantage." TALOS: "Correct." -Main Mission: KOENIG: "I don't believe Commissioner Theia will go along with that." -Big Screen (SFX): Theia THEIA: "As I previously stated, Commander, we are a reasonable people." -Main Mission: Dione TALOS (VO): "You understand that " -Big Screen (SFX, sc 272): Talos TALOS: " should the Bethans launch a second gunship, and you fail to inform us, we will destroy Alpha?" -Main Mission (sc 273): Koenig, Dione KOENIG: "I understand. Commissioner Theia, do you agree?" -Big Screen (SFX, sc 274): after brief pause THEIA: "We agree." ((screen blanks with chime)) -Main Mission (sc 275): Koenig goes to Helena & Victor & puts his arms round them. They speak quietly HELENA: "You've done it, John." KOENIG: "Yeah, let's hope it sticks. At least til we're out of range." VICTOR: "Well done, John. I had my doubts." KOENIG: "Me too." DIONE (offering hand to shake, sc 277): "Congratulations, Commander Koenig." KOENIG (shaking it over desk): "Thank you...for your help." DIONE (sc 283): "In all our interests. I would like to renew my offer for you and your people to come and live on Betha. From what I've seen here, you will like us. Our way of life is similar to your own. I made the offer at the height of the battle. It still stands." KOENIG (sc 277): "Well, that's very kind of you, but we will have to discuss it. If you'll excuse us, ah, Sandra will take you to her quarters." SANDRA: "Certainly, Commander." ((leads Dione off)) KOENIG: "Paul. I want two security guards with her at all times. Kano. Instruct Computer she is to have no access throughout Alpha." Paul walks to the 2 guards beyond & speaks to them; they walk off. Koenig walks up to his desk.

FADE OUT

ACT FOUR
INT. LIVING QUARTERS The door opens & Dione enters, followed by Sandra. The door stays open. Dione looks around. SANDRA: "If there is anything you need?" DIONE: "Thank you." ((looks at comms post)) "Your computer. Does it control access to and from these quarters?" SANDRA: "Yes." DIONE (indicating her comlock): "Well, then I'll need one of those, won't I?" SANDRA: "I am sorry. Commander's orders were that you were to remain here." Dione sees two guards position themselves either side of the door beyond. DIONE: "Prisoner?" SANDRA (looks back): "No. Normal security procedure." DIONE: "I see." Sandra leaves. Close on Dione.

285.INT. COMMAND OFFICE Koenig is sat at his desk, with Helena & Victor. The doors are closed HELENA: "Are you seriously considering her offer?" KOENIG: "Helena, we can't afford not to. We might never get a chance like this again." HELENA: "Seems they're a lot like us...in many ways." VICTOR: "Betha will definitely support our life patterns, but...even so, I'd like a reconnaissance." KOENIG: "We have no time for reconnaissance, Victor. We've got an invitation, from people like ourselves to a planet like our own. We can't ignore it." HELENA: "John. Alpha is intact and we're moving out of range. If we commit ourselves to that planet there'd be no turning back." VICTOR: "And of course we've only got her word for it that we'd be welcome." KOENIG: "It's a matter of trust." HELENA: "Oh. Do we trust her?"

INT. LIVING QUARTERS Dione walks round the room divider & stops. A sound is heard. She puts her hands to the sides of her head; she becomes translucent & disappears. Sandra enters carrying a tray of food. SANDRA: "Guards!" They enter. Sandra puts the tray down & goes to the comms post.

285.INT. COMMAND OFFICE KOENIG (answering his desk screen): "Yes?" SANDRA (on screen, sc 286): "Commander. Dione! She's gone."

290.EXT. LAUNCH PAD (SFX) Escape craft rises out of launch shaft.

291.INT. MAIN MISSION Koenig walks down to Paul as Victor & Helena walk to the top of the steps PAUL: "Commander, look!" -Big Screen (SFX): escape craft flies over lunar surface. VICTOR (VO): "Looks as if we've found Dione." KOENIG (VO): "Yeah. What the hell is she up to?" -Main Mission: KOENIG: "She's only got enough air in that thing for another hour or so." VICTOR: "She's making for the gunship."

292.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Escape craft flies to Satazius.

293.INT. MAIN MISSION KOENIG: "Why?"

INT. SATAZIUS Dione enters through a hatch & goes to the desks, where the girls work GIRL 3: "Everything's prepared, Dione." DIONE: "Get me Commissioner Theia." -THEIA (appearing on screen): Congratulations. At last we will rid ourselves of the Deltan enemy. Betha will be supreme." ((-Dione)) "Annihilate them, Dione." GIRL 3: "The Moonbase is trying to contact us." Dione waves her hand over the console & with a chime Koenig appears on the screen. -KOENIG (on screen): "Dione. We gave our word to supervise this cease fire. Now what the hell are you up to?" -DIONE (sc 302): "I'm genuinely sorry, Commander, but my plan had to be carried out. This is war."

302.INT. MAIN MISSION DIONE (VO): "We are fighting for our survival." ((-Big Screen)) "You are surprised. Really you shouldn't be." -KOENIG (sc 303): "Your gunship was destroyed." DIONE (-on screen, no border, sc 304): "Part of my plan." ((-Koenig; -screen, no border)) "I waited for a near miss and then detonated prepared charges." ((-Koenig)) "It worked, our enemies were deceived." KOENIG: "As we were." ((-screen, no border)) "But why?" DIONE (on screen): "Very simple. We have an active gunship on your Moon." ((-Koenig)) "It is too late for them to get one here now, so once again we have the advantage." KOENIG (sc 305): "The truce...everything..to gain time?" ((-screen)) "All planned?" DIONE (on screen, sc 306): "All planned. Again, I am sorry. One does not behave.. nicely..in times of war." ((screen blanks)) -Koenig.

INT. SATAZIUS GIRL 3 (walks to Dione): "All weapons ranged." GIRL 1: "Ready for firing." DIONE: "Firing...now!"

307.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) CU Bethan launcher as fires twice.

INT. MAIN MISSION

EXT. SPACE (SFX) 3 missiles rise.

308.INT. MAIN MISSION More thunderous blasts heard, then it stops KOENIG: "Kano! Get me through to Talos." David works at his console. -Big Screen (SFX, sc 310/311): Talos appears TALOS: "You have broken your word." -Main Mission (sc 312): KOENIG: "Talos! We've both been tricked!" They flinch at another blast

313.EXT. SPACE (SFX) 2 Bethan missiles in flight.

314.INT. MAIN MISSION KOENIG: "We both thought the gunship was knocked out. But it was a ploy to gain time." ((-screen, no border)) "To put you off your guard again." TALOS (sc 314a): "The cease fire is ended. The gunship will be destroyed " ((-Koenig)) " and Alpha too." KOENIG (sc 315): "Talos. I am responsible for the lives of innocent people. You must believe me, I have not broken my word. We've both been deceived." TALOS (-on screen, no border, sc 316): "You are in a position to give me the exact location of the gunship." ((-Koenig)) "Give me it's coordinates." ((Koenig pauses. -screen, no border)) "You will cooperate." KOENIG: "We must remain neutral!" TALOS (leans forward): "There can be no neutrality." ((-Koenig)) "The arrival of your Moon has upset the military balance between our two worlds." ((-screen, Talos leans back)) "We will bombard your base at intervals until you either give us those coordinates or the gunship is destroyed." ((pause)) "The choice is yours." ((screen blanks)) DIONE (replaces him on screen): "I heard Talos's threat, Commander." ((-Koenig)) "Any attempt to do so " ((-screen)) " and we will train our weapons on Alpha. And believe me, at this range your destruction is certain." ((screen blanks)) -PAUL: "Missiles from Delta! On target for Alpha!"

EXT. SPACE (SFX) 2 Deltan missiles. Missile leaves Delta.

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) CU Bethan launcher firing twice.

EXT. SPACE (SFX) 3 Deltan missiles tilting down.

EXT. LAUNCH PAD (SFX) 4 explosions about a pad.

INT. MAIN MISSION

EXT. LAUNCH PAD (SFX) Explodes.

EXT. MOONBASE ALPHA (SFX) 3 explosions round buildings.

INT. MAIN MISSION Alphans are shaken

EXT. MOONBASE ALPHA (SFX) 4 more explosions by buildings.

INT. MAIN MISSION HELENA (enters with Alan): "John! Damage, the casualties! We can't take much more!" Koenig goes to Paul's desk. Close on Big Screen: Dione appears on it. -Koenig: KOENIG (hits button; explosions end): "Dione. I'm coming out there." DIONE (-screen, no border): "Out? Out where?" -KOENIG: "To your ship. I'm coming out there now." -Big Screen (SFX, no border): girl 3 moves behind Dione. Pause. DIONE: "Impossible." -KOENIG: "Now look, I helped you! I took you in!" ((Paul looks at him)) "You owe me the same option! Now, I'm coming out there " ((Alan looks at him)) " in a Moonbuggy. Unarmed. Alone." DIONE (-screen, no border): "You would abandon your command? Your people?" -Koenig. The others look at him. Pause. KOENIG: "I didn't say that!" ALAN: "What are you trying to say, Commander?" Pause. -Dione watches on screen -Koenig moves near Alan & grabs his laser. He backs. KOENIG: "Hold it. Don't move! I'm still in command here. Do as I say." ALAN: "Now wait a minute, Commander, you're cracking up." KOENIG: "Dione, I'm coming out there. Don't do that!" ((as Paul flips switch; Victor presses a button on David's desk))

INT. SATAZIUS The screen blanks. -DIONE: "They cut him off."

INT. MAIN MISSION KOENIG: "Have you turned off the frequency?" ((lowers laser & walks to centre of desks)) "Good. Now listen to me; I had to make that look real." ((to Paul)) " Call Technical, tell them to stand by for immediate instructions." PAUL: "Main Mission to Technical. Stand by for instructions." KOENIG (returns to position): "Alright. Switch on the frequency." ((Victor does))

INT. SATAZIUS -Screen returns to show Koenig aiming the laser at the Main Mission staff. KOENIG: "You cut me off again and I'll blow your head off!" ((-Dione)) "Dione. I'm coming out." DIONE: "Whether you wish to die on Alpha or the lunar surface is your choice."

INT. MAIN MISSION DIONE: "You will not be allowed on board." ((-screen; she waves her hand over it & it blanks)) Koenig tosses his laser to Alan

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) CU launcher firing 4 times.

EXT. SPACE (SFX) 3 Bethan missiles rise.

INT. SATAZIUS Dione walks to her desk & waves her hand over it KOENIG (VO): "Dione."

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Moonbuggy driving along surface. KOENIG (VO): "Can you hear me?" DIONE (VO): "Commander. Go back to Alpha."

EXT. MOON SURFACE CU helmet of astronaut. DIONE (VO): "There's no place for you here." KOENIG (VO): "Now listen to me."

INT. SATAZIUS Dione KOENIG (VO): "If you stop the bombardment of Delta, I'll go back." DIONE: "You would have us give up our victory "

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Moonbuggy in long shot DIONE (VO): " in order to preserve you and your base?" KOENIG (VO): "Yes. Now stop firing."

INT. SATAZIUS DIONE: "Don't you understand? This is total war!"

EXT. MOON SURFACE CU helmet. KOENIG (VO): "Then let me in."

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) CU surface, Satazius beyond (POV of moonbuggy) KOENIG (VO): "You owe it to me, Dione!"

INT. SATAZIUS DIONE: "Go back to Alpha, Commander."

EXT. MOON SURFACE CU helmet. DIONE (VO): "In a short time "

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) POV closing on Satazius. DIONE (VO): " we will have destroyed all that remains of the Deltan defences."

INT. SATAZIUS DIONE: "If you return to Alpha you might just survive." GIRL 3: "Dione. Missile response from Delta." DIONE: "Commander! Take cover!"

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Moonbuggy. DIONE (VO): "Turn back!"

INT. MAIN MISSION PAUL: "Missile from Delta. On target from Alpha." VICTOR: "How long before impact?" PAUL: "Minutes."

EXT. SPACE (SFX) 3 Deltan missiles rising

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) CU launcher firing twice

EXT. SPACE (SFX) 2 Deltan missiles rise

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Moonbuggy drives to side of Satazius. (view from under ship) KOENIG (VO): "Dione! I beg you! For the last time. Stop firing!"

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) CU launcher firing 4 times

INT. MAIN MISSION ALAN: "Come on, come on. Hurry it!"

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Moonbuggy drives to side of Satazius.

INT. SATAZIUS DIONE: "Turn back! You will not be allowed on board this ship." ((she walks forward to the girls)) KOENIG (VO): "You have only yourself to blame."

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Moonbuggy drives under side of Satazius.

INT. SATAZIUS Dione looks at the girls, then turns to wave a hand over her desk. She turns to look forward. Screen (SFX): View down side of ship as Moonbuggy drives under. DIONE (VO): "That moon vehicle!" -Dione is alarmed. DIONE: "It's a trap! Turn the guns on it, quick!" ((buzzing sounds)) "Destroy it!!" -Screen (SFX): moonbuggy drives out of sight under the ship GIRL 3 (VO): "It's no use, Dione." -They react GIRL 3: "The Moonbuggy is under the range of our guns."

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) Moonbuggy drives under Satazius POV approaching wall Moonbuggy drives to wall.

EXT. MOON SURFACE CU helmet falling off. CU helmet hitting lunar dirt.

EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) POV approaching wall.

INT. SATAZIUS DIONE (quiet): "No."

INT. COMMAND OFFICE Koenig is sat at his desk. He lowers his comlock. KOENIG: "Goodbye Dione."

INT. SATAZIUS DIONE: "Nooo!" ((close on her screaming mouth))

322.EXT. MOON SURFACE (SFX) The buggy hits the Satazius wall generating an explosion Higher view of wall exploding Satazius explosions Surface explosion

INT. MAIN MISSION The office doors open & Koenig enters. KOENIG: "Call Delta. Tell them the Bethan gunship is destroyed." ((Paul types)) "Now signal Talos. Tell him to destroy his missiles." ((Paul types)) PAUL: "Signal..." ((a chime sounds)) "..acknowledged."

EXT. SPACE (SFX) 2 missiles Space explosion

INT. MAIN MISSION Sighs of relief. The staff return to their desks. VICTOR: "Ah, the waste. Total waste. Still, perhaps some good will come of it. Maybe now they'll learn how to live together." ((he walks back to the office, leaving Helena & Koenig)) HELENA: "We survived, John." KOENIG: "Yes, Helena. But think of the cost." ((they look forward, then Koenig walks back to his desk))

FADE OUT

EPILOGUE
324.EXT. SPACE (SFX) View over horizon of Moon to planets & sun.

325.INT. MAIN MISSION Koenig walks from a viewport to David at his desk, giving him a report. DAVID: "No further contact, sir." Koenig walks to Paul. PAUL: "Evacuation procedure negative, sir. Situation...normal." Koenig looks at Victor, stood by Paul, then walks up to his office, opening the doors with his comlock.

326.INT. COMMAND OFFICE Koenig walks in & sits on a settee. Helena walks in from one of the side doors & sits on the back of the settee. HELENA: "Well. We've got five cases of middle ear damage. It's not serious. There's nothing permanent. We're lucky." KOENIG: "I wonder what life on Dione's planet would have been like?" HELENA: "You're feeling regret?" KOENIG: "No, no, just curious." HELENA: "Well, I'd think I'd rather take my chances wandering through space than be involved in a permanent state of war. Anyway. It's too late now." KOENIG: "Yeah. Too late. They've got their war and we have all of space in which to find a home..somewhere." He touches her cheek & they smile.

FREEZE FRAME