The following is a play/script that I'm working
(work in progress). This play/script IS copyright to me and any unauthorized distribution is strictly prohbited.
PLEASE READ AND LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THINK SO FAR :-)
THE TRIAL OF V.S. DRACULA
By:
Joel Adam Knudsen
SCENE 1
[ Year: 1998. Location: Central United States, Minnesota.
Campus of The University of St. JOSEPH. Time- 9:30pm. LEAVES CRUNCH UNDER THE FEET OF TWO TWENTY YEAR OLD AS THEY GO TO THEIR CARS AFTER NIGHT CLASSES. THE MOON IS FULL AND BRIGHT WITH A THOUSAND STARS OVER HEAD Donna and Nicole are discussing class.]
DONNA
(SHAKING HER HEAD) Two weeks into the class
and our first paper due in a week and a half.
Not that our dear professor bothered
to give us a syllabus the FIRST
day of class.{PAUSE }
OH NO..the brainless moron gives it to us to a week later.
NICOLE
It could be a lot worse. My prof for journalism class is in the middle of a law suit with the television company he worked for. He is DEFINATELY
not a happy camper.
[The two say goodbye and part company. Nicole reaches her car and waves as Donna drives by and honks. A tall imposing figure of a man walks towards Nicole and waves.He IS CLEAN
SHAVEN, TALL AND MUSCLARLY BUILT AND wears a very dark, heavy cape and hat, dressed rather sharply and speaks with a heavy accent. He also carries an ornate cane.]
STRANGER
[With a tip of hat to Nicole] Hello. I'm
looking for the Campus Trek Grill. I'm
to meet my wife there. She the new
instructor in the Anthropolgy Department.
I'm still not used to the new campus yet.
NICOLE
{Relaxed a bit} I know how that can be. You go
down the path, pasted the two oak trees,
around[Points with hand gestures] the
corner.
In the doors at Dresden Hall, down the stairs and
tothe right. They make a great curried
lamb sandwich.
STRANGER
[Repeats direction while pointing with the top
of the cane.].....In the doors at Dresden Hall and down the
stairs. Thank you so much. Your so kind to help me out. [As the Stranger pulls the cane towards himself, the crystal on the cane seems to glow with an unearthly pulse. Nicole stare at the cane.] You like the cane, don't you.{PAUSE} The light is so
calming, and soothing. Isn't it Nicole.
NICOLE
{Speaking slowly, as if drugged. Or in a trance.} Yes...very calming..relaxing
STRANGER
Aren't colors of the crystal pretty. So many
colors. [As he says this, the pulsating colors
seem to change colors. First slowly, then very
quickly.] Watch the colors Nicole.
NICOLE
[AS IF IN SLUMBER]...watch the pretty colors...
[The STRANGER lifts his cloak to encompass
Nicole, wrapping her up in its billowing
darkness. Nicole's car keys hit the
ground. So do several drops of blood. A
deep, resonating chuckling can be heard.]
SCENE 2
EXT.-EVENING-SEMI DESERTED STREET
[ The Place: Cancun, Mexico. The time: 10:45pm. Festivities are still continuing. The night is warm, with a cool coastal breeze coming from the north. A beautiful dancer walks from a club where much revalry is taking place. Many people walk in and out of the door. The dancer walks up a semi-deserted street, humming a tune. A STRANGER walks up to her.]
STRANGER
[Tips his hat.] Good evening, seniorita. Can you direct me to the Cafe Ortiz near the
Pavilion Court Market? I seem to be lost.
DANCER
Çi, senior. I have danced there many a time. It
is down eight blocks, then turn right. It
has many palmtrees in front of it.
STRANGER
...eight blocks, then turn right. [Points with cane. Again, as he draws it close to him, the crystal in the
cane tip begins to glow radiantly. The woman is
entranced.] A beautiful cane, is it not seniorita? {PAUSE} See how the light changes color and seems to dance on the tip of the cane.
DANCER
Very beautiful. {Spellbound, starts to sway to almost non-existant music.} It dances...
swirls...leaps...
[The STRANGER lifts his cloak to encompass the dancer,
wrapping her up in its billowing darkness. The dancer's purse hits the ground. So do several drops of blood. A deep,
resonating chuckling can be heard.]
SCENE 3
EXT.-OLYMPIC VILLAGE-EVENING
[PLACE: Reykjavik, Iceland. Olympic Stadium Village. World Figure Skating Tournement is being held. A group of figure
skaters leave the area, laughing and smiling in the cool fall air. Time: 9:00pm. March 1999.]
[Man and a woman break off from the rest. The group waves
good-bye. The two are Iceland's Olympic hopefuls, twin
brother and sister skating duo.]
ERIK
{SMILING} Erika, you skated beautifully.
Almost like an angel.
ERIKA
{Patting her big brother on the back.} I did get plenty of help, big brother. Thanks to you!
{With a devilish grin} I saw you hanging
around that Czech skater, Illyianna Masyovich.
You weren't telling her your routine secrets,
{Teasingly} WERE YOU?
ERIK
{BLUSHING} No...although {smiling} it sure was tempting. Actually, she was had been talking with
the Oslo team....
ERIKA
You mean Tanya and Peter?
ERIK
Hmm, yes. Seems they were talking about all the murders in Oslo last month. It seems one of Peters'
cousins was one of the women killed. And the police
are still not saying much.
ERIKA
{SHIVERS} Burrrr. It gives me chills just thinking about it. They STILL haven't caught the guy.
ERIK
[Puts his arm around his sister.] Don't worry, I'll always be here for you.
[They walk to the parking lot. A car near theirs has its
hood up.]
ERIK
{CALLS OUT} Sir, do you need some assistance. Are you having car troubles?
[A STRANGER peers out from behind the car hood. He is
fashionably dressed, with a heavy black cloak, hat and
gloves. And he carries a cane.]
STRANGER
Yes I am. I'm afraid I'm not very mechanically inclined. Is there anyone at the area to help?
ERIKA
Everyone has left for the evening. There is a service station four blocks in that direction.
There may be an attendent on duty.
STRANGER
[Points in the direction using cane, as if to echo the directions.] That way, four blocks. [As he draws cane towards him, the crystal seems to glow and pulsate.]{PAUSE} Thank you, so kindly. [Moves cane in circular motion. ERIK and ERIKA both seem spellbound by the pulsing light.] The light from
the crystal, is quite something, isn't it. Circling the cane like so, makes the light seem to glide across the air. Almost as graceful as an angel on ice skates.
ERIKA
...like an angel..
ERIK
...on ice skates. So beautiful...
STRANGER
Now Erik, close your eyes and see that beautiful skater.
ERIK
[With eyes closed.] Erika, you look so lovely..
[The STRANGER pulls Erika closer to him with his cloak.
Erika's skates fall with a clink to the ground. A muffled
groan is heard and Erika crupples to the ground next to the
car. The STRANGER dashes to the side of a buliding and
vanishes. Erik awakens and rubs his eyes.]
ERIK
What...has happened here? [Shakes the cobwebs from his head.] Erika, what's going on? [Looks for his sister. Sees her crumpled body next to the car] Oh,god. NO!! [Rushes to his sister.] ERIKA!!!!
[Kneels down and craddles her head in his lap. He cries aloud.]
ERIKA!!{PAUSE} SPEAK TO ME!!!!
{PAUSE} HELP!! SOMEBODY!!! ANYBODY!!! {PAUSE} CALL THE POLICE!!!
END SCENE 3
SCENE 4
[PLACE: HEATHROW AIRPORT. LAST FLIGHT HAS JUST ARRIVED FROM AUSTRAILIA. LORNA WITTMAN, FLIGHT ATTENDENT WITH QUANTUS
AIRLINES STROLLS DOWN THE NEARLY DESERTED AIRLINE CONCOURSE. HER PULL-A-LONG TOTE LUMBERS ALONG BEHIND HER. SHE IS
LOOKING FORWARD TO A LONG REST IN PEACE AND QUIET. SUDDENLY, A BEEP-BEEP IS HEARD , AS A SECURITY GUARD IS SEEN GOMING DOWN THE WALKWAY IN A COURTESY TRAM CAR.
MONTH/YEAR/TIME- JULY,1999; 11:30pm]
LORNA
{STICKS THUMB OUT AS IF HITCHHIKING} RIDE, MISTER. GOT ROOM FOR A VERY TIRED YOUNG WOMAN, AND
HER BAG OF THINGS.
[THE GUARD, A DARK DRESSED STRANGER IN UNIFORM,COMES TO A HALT. ]
STRANGER/GUARD:
Hop in. I'll see you get to where you need to be.
[ LORNA SETS HER BAG IN THE BACK AND HOPS IN. THEY SPEED OFF.]
LORNA
Boy, this thing moves. It sure is nice to be back a Heathrow. It seems like months. I do like the new uniforms you guards have. Gives you more of an authority look to yourselves. {THEY TURN TOWARDS AN UNFAMILIAR STRETCH OF THE AIRPORT.]
I'm not familiar with this stretch of corridor.
STRANGER/GUARD
Quantus just installed a new waiting area for crews coming in from long hauls and would be waiting to catch the buses to the hotels, or homes they will be staying in.
LORNA
OH. {BEAT} That's nice. It is a pleasent evening alright.
STANGER/GUARD
Yes it is. {MOTIONS TO FLOOR OF COURTESY CAR.}
Could you hand me my cane.
LORNA
Sure. {HANDS THE CANE TO HIM.} That really is a beautiful cane. It reminds me of the one my grandfather used. Except he didn't have an ornate crystal in the top base of the handle.
STRANGER/GUARD
Yes, it is beautiful. {STOPS BY A WINDOW WHERE MOONLIGHT STREAMS INWARD} See how the crystal takes in the light and reflects it outward.
{As he says this, the crystal begins emitting a pulsating, almost hypnotic, glow.}
The light almost seems to fly through the air.
v LORNA
[HYPONTISED-DAZED] So pretty...so many colors...They seem to float in the air...
[THE STRANGER STEPS FROM THE CAR AND WALKS TO AN UNSEEN DOOR NEXT TO THE EXIT OF THE TERMINAL. A REAL SECURITY GUARD
RACES TOWARDS TO STRANGER AFTER SEEING WHAT HAS TRANSPIRED ON THE VIDEO MONITERS. THE SPELLBOUND GIRL BEGINS TO RISE OUT
OF THE CAR AND TOWARDS THE EXIT, LED BY THE STRANGER.
THE STRANGER, STARTLED BY THE SECURITY GUARDS APPEARENCE,
STARTS ROTATING HIS OTHER HAND IN A CIRCULAR MOTION AT THE
GUARD. SUDDENLY, THE GUARD BURSTS INTO FLAME, AS IF HE WERE
SIMPLY WOOD SET AFLAME BY A MATCH. HE CRYS OUT AND FALLS TO THE GROUND TRYING TO DOUSE THE FIRE. BUT THE FIRE HAS NO
HEAT. A MOMENT AFTER HITTING THE GROUND, THE FLAMES HAVE DISAPPEARED. BUT SO TOO HAVE THE GIRL AND THE DARKLY DRESSED STRANGER. THE NEXT MORNING, AS LIGHT HITS THE TARMAC, ON A
FAR OFF RUNWAY, A WOMANS BODY IS FOUND PERFECTLY INTACT, BUT WITH NO FLUIDS WITHIN HER BODY.]
END SCENE 4
SCENE 5
INT.-MORNING-CASTLE
[ Man walking down staircase into a very Victorian furnished surroundings of the castle. Old paintings hang upon the
opposing walls. Copys, perhaps, but surely looking like the
originals. The furniture, antiques of the highest calibar,
all perfectly preserved. But appearances can be deceiving. For filling a wall next to a roaring fireplace is installed
an audiophile's paradise. An enterainment system including a 36in. console television, top of the line VCR and very
expensive audio CD componant system.In a chair near the
fireplace, sleeps the owner of the castle. ]
[He is a tall, slender man who at first appearance seems to
be in his mid to late 30's. He has a regal air about him,
although all that remains of his noble heritage is the castle in which he resides, and owns... and his name. A name that
his butler's family has known for generations and respected. A name applied to a legend. The man, Karl the butler is
about to waken, is Count Vladimer Sebation Dracula. It is the year September, 1999 and all is not well.]
KARL
Sir, your mail and newspapers have arrived.......Sir? [Touches Shoulder. Dracula awakens.]
DRACULA:
What? (Yawn) Ah...Good day Karl.[A bit blurry eyed, looks at grandfather clock as it chimes.] Looks like
another night asleep by the fire.
KARL
[Pushes drapes aside and cracks the window. Opens drapes slightly, just enough to illuminate the room.] [ LOOKS AT ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM] You'll need to remember to turn of the power the entertainment system and eject the tape at night.
DRACULA
[With a grin] Yes, mother.
KARL
[Chuckling] Alright, no lecture. Your old enough to know better. [At this comment Dracula shoots him a dirty look.] Ahem.....let me refraise that.
DRACULA
{Burst into laughter} Don't bother. Anyway, I did enjoy the movie. Such an interesting idea, a man who lives forever, fighting to gain the wisdom and knowledge of others. Good script. Somewhat familiar, though.
KARL
I am glad you enjoy the videotape. I'll have Ivan come in to clean out the ashes and cinders from the fireplace. He says mixed properly, it makes good fertilizer for the orchird. Speaking of fields, Jonah will not be in today. His son Stephen is graduating from the Academy of Arts in Reinstadt and he plans to attend.Very proud of his son.
DRACULA
Yes indeed. Stephen is studying the violin, is he not? [Karl nods his head in agreement.] Let us send that Strativarious we found in the attic to him. I am sure the Great Detective would not mind.
KARL
No indeed. [THOUGHTFULLY] The drapes in the living room upstairs, your bedroom, and the library are open. It truly is a beautiful fall day. If your up to it,the last of the fruit in the orchird is ready to be picked. The apples are very good right now.
DRACULA
I think that would do me some good. What papers have arrived?
KARL
Let's see. The Wallstreet Journal, London Times, and Pravda.
DRACULA
Pravda? This must be the "special surprise" they promised, along with free electricity and the plaque of service to "Mother Russia". [As he sit back into the chair.] If they only knew who supplied them with the cure to the plague.
KARL
Yes Count. But of course, who else has such a detailed collection of records dating back over 400 years.....or was there at the time. And remember, Mother Russia is more like Father Russia, with all the children free and independent.
DRACULA
Yes, you're correct of course; still one remembers the old days. At least the papers are arriving again. Irrina must have her motorscooter fixed. [Starts thumbing through Pravda] Any letters?[Throws down Pravda and picks up the Wallstreet Journal.]
KARL
Yes, sir. One from the lawyers office, a contest notice [promptly toss over his shoulder] and a letter from Hollywood California.
And {PAUSE} sir, a Letter from Prince William, post dated on August 15th.
DRACULA
I have feeling I know what it's concerning.
KARL
{HANDS OPEN THE ENVELOPE AND A RUSSLING OF PAPER IS HEARD AS THE LETTER IS OPENED. KARL SMILES.}
Hmmm. It's a birth announcement. "Prince William and Lady Kathrine McIntyre wish to share the news of the birth of" {BIG PAUSE} OH MY WORD....
DRACULA
{TURNS TOWARDS KARL. FURROWED BROWS TELL OF DRACULA'S CONFUSION AND CURIOUSITY.}
What is the news?
A boy or a girl?
KARL
BOTH!
{PAUSE} "Wish to share the news of their twin children
{AT THIS POINT DRACULA BEGINS CHUCKLING.}
Phillip Arthur and Sara Margaret. Mother and children are in excellent health and should be returning to Buckingham Palace with a few days.
DRACULA
That is wonderful new. I'll send a card to Kathrine {PAUSE} and tranquilisers for William. I wonder who was first born...hmm. [ SMILES AN SHAKES
HIS HEAD.Sets Wall Street Journal aside, picks up London Times dated September 7, 1999, and casually unfolds paper to front page. A loud gasp is released from the lips of Dracula as his eyes become transfixed onto the bold print of the paper.] WHAT?!?!? It's impossible.... I didn't....
KARL
[Shows concern.] What is the matter sir? What does the paper say?
DRACULA
The paper screams of the new murders in London on the 15th of September. The police link them to attacks here on the continient and in the Americas.
[With anger in his voice, deep and chilling to the bone.] They blaspheme MY name as the culprit of these hanious crimes. [Reads from the Times.]
"....all the blood was sucked dry from the bodies....two puncture marks on the juguliar vien....[Louder]... these DRACULA murders...." how dare they imply these acts to my name. [Throws paper down in disgust.] Curse you Brahms, who now is the true villian: the defamed or the defamer!?! [Rises. Places hands on mantlepiece of fireplace.
Clinches fists.]
I didn't know...I DIDN'T KNOW!!
KARL
But these newspapers have been reporting the
murders for over a year now, in Asia as well as Europe and the Americas.
[Dracula turns to walk near edge of bookcase and starts pacing, using his hands expressively. Carl still stands next to chair ten paces from stage left.]
DRACULA:
I haven't been to the Americas since....oh yes, 1946.
{ FLASH BACK TO UNDERGROUND BUNKER OF WHITE HOUSE WITH LOOKALIKE PRESIDENT TRUMAN SURROUNDED BY GUARDS. IN ALMOST SCRATCHY BLACK AND WHITE FILM IMAGES}
Right after the war, I went over with your grand father to receive the medal of valor and citation from President Truman. The United States way of thanking me for my assistance in that problem that arose in Bulgaria.
KARL
You mean Telgen.
DRACULA
Yes...Telgen.
{AN ALMOST UNEARTHLY, LOW GROWL/HISS IS HEARD MIXED WITH DRACULA'S VOICE}
Telgen the vile...Telgen the cruel...
[ As ANGER wells up in his voice.] Telgen,
brother to Lucifer himself, truly the most chaotic evil creature ever conceived!! [ Realizes his voice has become tainted with anger.] My appoligies Karl.
KARL
{A SENSE OF CONCERN COMES ACROSS HIS FACE} Grandfather told me the story, but never mentioned to me how Telgen was defeated. One thing I do remember him saying was that ...[Dracula looks towards him at this point.] that you barely survived the encounter and you took Telgen on by yourself to save a group of wounded soldiers.
DRACULA
[Stares into space as if remembering the fateful day.] That's....correct. But that was many years ago and this is a far different situation. Reminds me of the Ripper, but THIS butcher's modis apperendi is much different. The solution is, of course, obvious. I need to track the killer down myself. I cannot stand by and allow this to continue while it preys upon my good name. The air that surrounds the murders reek of evil...it cannot continue. Karl, please make the neccessary arrangements for a trip to England. I...must prepare myself, do not disturb me until it's time to leave.
KARL
As you wish, Count Dracula.
[ DRACULA EXISTS UP A FLIGHT OF STAIRS. Karl bows as he leaves. Lights fade to black.]
END OF SCENE 5
SCENE 6
EXT.-OVERCAST NIGHT-DOCKS AND SHIPS
[ AT THE DOCKS OF PORT CITY OF NAVARRONE. FOG, UNUSUALLY COLD FOR THIS TIME OF THE YEAR, ROLLS IN FROM THE MEDITERRAIN. MOST SHIPS ARE TIED UP AND WON'T BE LEAVING TILL THE MORNING. ONE, THE H.M.S MELBOURNE, IS BUSY LOADING FOOD AND MEDICAL SUPPLIES INTO THE CARGO HOLD. DESTINATION; THE NEWLY INDEPEDANT COUNTRY OF IRELAND. IT'S COMMANDER, CAPTAIN HENRY DRAKE, IT WAITING FOR HIS SOLE NON -ESSENSIAL PERSONNAL PASSENGER... AND AN OLD ACCOINTANCE.]
CAPTAIN DRAKE
[PACES ON DECK, BLOWS A BUBBLE FROM BUBBLEGUM POUNDS FIST ON RAILING.]
Damn. I hate bubblegum.
VOICE OF DRACULA FROM OVER HEAD
{CHUCKLING} You also need to remember you promised a certain someone to kick the habit. [FLOATS DOWN FROM THE SKY. CAPTAIN DRAKE SIMPLY SHAKES HIS HEAD.] That what you get for marrying a very beautiful...
CAPT. DRAKE
[SMILES AND NODS KNOWING WHAT DRACULA IS ABOUT TO SAY]
AND persuasive...
DRACULA
And persuasive wife and surgeon. [ EXTENDS HANDS. DRAKE DOES THE SAME.] It's good to see you again, Henry.
DRAKE
You also Vladimer. I wasn't surprised at Karl's telex. After seeing the papers for the past year or so, I was beginning to wonder if you were going to take action. You were always a bit head strong, once you got the urge to do something.
DRACULA
Only when the children are involved. It [THOUGHFULLY] took them so long to stop the fighting. I cannot recall, how many children did we ferry out of Bosnia? 400...500. I remember Marko and the other trying to comfort the children as we set sail. Jana was quite a help.
DRAKE
[BOTH WALK TO THE RAILING, LOOKING OUT OVER THE MEDITERRIAN.]
She stole my heart that first day I saw her. At least the two nations have settled down. Reminded me the final
destruction of Belfast. There was some devistation.
Thank Posiden that William and Katherine were able to unite the country in a marriage of love and not convience.
Remember... when Yugoslavia was one nation and not three.
DRACULA
[NODS IN AGREEMENT] I can remember when the country was a major influence during World War 1.
DRAKE
[CHUCKLES] YOU REMEMBER SANTA CLAUS!
DRACULA
I WAS Santa Claus. [TURNS TOWARDS HIM]
What is our E.T.A to England?
DRAKE
Two days. We cast off in three hours time. I have a state room prepared for you and dinner ready for you, when you are ready. [PAUSES] I didn't cover the porthole window. I...wasn't sure how much exposure time you have available to you.
DRACULA
I'll be fine. Stop by after we get under way. We have alot of catching up to do. And I definately want to see pictures of my god daughters and how they are dong in school.
DRAKE
We'll do that. [TURNS TO LEAVE. STOPS. PAUSE. TURNS SLIGHTLY TO DRACULA. IN A LOW VOICE.]
What was the last paper you saw?
DRACULA
September 7, 1998. Delivery isn't what it should. Why?
DRAKE
I overheard a couple of the sailors from the HMS Diana say that...well... William is missing.
DRACULA
NO!
DRAKE
And that he may be dead, murdered; with parliament and House Of Windsor performing a major coverup so not to alert the presses.
DRACULA
[SHOWING ALOT OF CONCERN]
AND WHAT OF KATHERINE?!?
DRAKE
She is in seculsion for the time being. And that security was beefed up at Buckingham Palace.
DRACULA
It had a year since I worked with William. All his training was nearly complete back in 1994. And a year after, he met Kathrine. We had been corresponding quite regularly since the wedding in '98. In fact, it was during the rescue mission into Bosnia in '95 that made me take him under my "wing." [ANGERLY, HITS FIST ONTO RAILING.]
DAMN!!
DRAKE
[SHAKES HIS HEAD] Too many wierd things going on, Vladimer. And don't get me wrong. If I didn't know you as well as I do, well... I might...you know... wonder what you've been up to lately. I'm sorry. [LOOKS AT HIS WATCH] I need to get to the bridge. I'll be down later.
[TURNS WALKS TOWRDS THE BRIDGE, LEAVING DRACULA AT THE RAILING A WHISTLE SOUNDS, BREAKING THE SILENCE.]
DRACULA
[LEANS AGAINST THE RAILING. TALKING TO HIMSELF. THE WIND BLOWS HIS HAIR TO THE SIDE, AS HE LOOKS OUT OVER THE HARBOR.] Is it too much of a coincidence? After all,
it is speculation by a group of sailors, with no corroberating evidence to back it up. It is puzzling. [LOOKS AT HIS WATCH, TURNS AND WALKS DOWN A STAIRCASE AND THROUGH A DOOR.]
END OF SCENE 6
SCENE 7
[Older, Victorian Hotel-Near Dusk. Presidential Suite. Karl and Vladimer are unpacking when there's a knock at the suite's door. A bellhop is waiting with a tray of meats, fish, breads and cheeses, along with a fine ale. Along with this, a newspaper is set upon the cart. Vladimer tips the bellhop and closes the door. They split the paper, Vladimer scanning the headlines and the primary sections. Karl peruses the other sections.]
DRACULA
{Takes a bite of bread and cheese}
Karl......{SWALLOWS}, look at this. {Folds paper over. Points to article}. Peter's in town for an Amnesty International concert.
KARL
{Thoughtful Look}
I had thought you mentioning he retiring.
DRACULA
A good benefit concert always draws the finest musicians.
KARL
{Smiles..Reflectively gazing at the paper}
It's a shame the concert is sold out. It would be
nice to see.
DRACULA
{Contemplates Karls last comment}
You know.....{Cocks his head slightly & raises an eyebrow, looking towards Karl} we could just "fly" over and look in.
KARL
Harumph. Some of us can fly.
DRACULA
You flew into London...on an airplane.
{Chuckles} I'll get you a tee shirt.
[A change in scene. Airel view of Wembly Stadium. Massive throngs of people are gathered around a stadium built stage within the massive building. Music is errupting into the night air, the flash of camera bulbs in non-random patterns while people of all ages shout approval. Dracula glides behind the stage. People barely notice his presences. On stage, Peter Gabriel is performing. Dracula walks silently towards the edge of the curtain. He peers out onto the stage. Peter stands on the edge of the stage and bows to the audience. Dracula is clapping , unaware that Peter can hear it. Peter turns his head slightly and sees Dracula off stage, watching. The crowds are still applauding the song as Peter walks back towards his band. He whisper something to the band, then walks towards the stage microphone. The crowd cheers die down.]
PETER
Thank you........thank you. [THE CROWD QUIETS]
We'd like to thank you for supporting the Amnesty International through the concert. [PETER LOOKS TOWARDS DRACULA. DRACULA REALIZES PETER KNOWS HE'S THERE.
DRACULA BOWS TO PETER AND SMILES.] The next song is a particular favorite of mine. Written for a good friend.
[Peter gives the band a nod and the band begins playing. Audience members realize the song and a roar of approval rings out throught the stadium. The song.....RED RAIN IS GONNA FALL. As the song plays, Dracula's memory drifts back over memories of days go by. Memories, both good and bad, filter through.
{TRANSITION TO:}
SCENE 8
EXT-NIGHT-FOGGY LONDON STREET
[ Scene is a foggy street. A London fog, thick and heavy. HORSES CAN BE HEARD CLOPPING DOWN THE STREET. STREET LIGHTS BURN LIKE BEACONS THROUGH THE PEA SOUP.Dracula walks along a semi-deserted street. The bells in the distance toll 11pm on October 5, 1999. A dampness chills the area. A lone boy is seen hawking the late edition of the London Times. POLICE WHISTLES CAN BE HEARD CLOSE BY.]
BOY
PAPERS! Get the latest news right here. King Charles declares freedom for IRA activists. Death tolls continue rise after destruction of Belfast. Serial killings continue. PAPERS!! Paper sah? Only 50 shillings.
DRACULA
Thank you young man. [Takes paper.] Are you not abit young to be out here at this late hour? Don't you have a warm cloak?
BOY
I'm not that young, sah. I'm 10 1/2, going on 11 soon. I'm saving my money to go to school. I going to be a doctor someday. My last cloak was torn by ...dogs...yeah, and mum cannot really afford me a new one just yet ....[with a hint of saddness] yeah... someday.
DRACULA
[With a slight, knowing smile] I'm sure you'll be a wonderful doctor. What is your name young doctor.
BOY
Tom, sah. [ Like a gentleman.] Thomas Bell at your service.
DRACULA
Well, [With a bow.] Master Bell. I bid you greetings. What news of the killings? And what IS the commotion up the street?
TOM
That [Motioning up the street] will be tomorrows news. The counstabul that came by a few minutes ago said another "lady" was killed. Kinda scary [ Looks up street.]...that close to my corner. The copper told me [in a mocking voice] "You'd better push off so you doesn't become a headline." I'm not afraid, not too much.
DRACULA
Regardless, you should be careful young Tom. Perhaps it would be better if you consider returning home. Think about this, tomorrows headlines will sell more in warm sunlight rather that damp London fog.
TOM
I suppose. It is getting a little cold out too. Well, nice to have meet you sah. Travel well.
DRACULA
And you also Mr. Bell. And here, [Reaches into pocket for money] the money for the paper. Spend it wisely.
TOM
A £10 note! THANK YOU sah!
DRACULA
No, thank you Tom. Now, take care. [ Turns to walk accross stage/screen where a crowd has gathered. Dracula peers over the shoulder of the crowd, making his way to the center of the commotion. The local officials begin dispersing the crowd to where the is only two officiers and Dracula.
OFFICER #1
Bloody shame, eh Teddy. She reminds me of my niece in Alnwick.
OFFICER #2
Aye. Poor lass. Never seen a death like this. Saints preserve her. The butcher. [Saddness tinted with anger/desperation.] Just one shot at him, just one!
DRACULA
We'd all like to constibul. Did anyone get a good description of the killer? Anything at all, clues,rumors.
OFFICER# 2
Suren not a sound was heard. All they've seen was a dark figure, a shadow here one minute.....
OFFICER #1
Then poof, [Snaps his his fingers.] gone in a flash. Satan himself was his teacher.
DRACULA
Not Satan, officers, but something infinitely more diobolical and clever. [ Aside to himself/audience.] And more & more familiar, but it cannot be....[To officers.] Any marks on the body.
OFFICER #2
Why might you be asken all these questions now; not a journalist are ye? If so, you might refer yer questions to Scotland Yard. We canna make anymore comments.
DRACULA
I'm.....investigating these murders from the continent and the correlations within the past year of similiar murders around the world.
OFFICER #1
Yes, sah. Detective are ye? Here's what we found.
[The officers lift the blanket to reveal the body to Dracula. Dracula shakes his head at the blood drained body. But not only blood, all fluid. For as Dracula touches the marks on the neck, the body collapses in upon itself, dry and brittle. The officers cross themselves, while Dracula bows his head in silence. At the other end of the block, Tom has another customer approach. This new customer blends with the night, dressed in black chappeau, cape with gold trim, and black gloves. He walks with an air of distinction, and a large crystal walking stick. He purchases a paper from Tom, and, as he is about to withdraw, holds the crystal cane infront of Tom. The crystal suddenly comes to life, spreading from it an unholy glow which holds young Tom entranced. This being encircles Tom with his cape and envelopes him. A muffled cry , to faint for normal ears, not Draculas. Dracula straightens up to stare at the man at the end of the block, as the body of young Tom falls into a crumpled heap in front of the man. In a mocking gesture, the man bows to Dracula, and bolts away laughing hidieously. Dracula looks in disbelief and shouts.]
DRACULA
STOP!! Officiers, quickly follow me!
[All three race to the body of the small boy. Both officiers tooting on their whistles to summon assistance as they run. Dracula kneels down and cradles Tom's head in his lap as the officiers continue the chase. Tom moans slighly, and tries to lift his head. The marks on Tom's neck tell the tale. One officier returns.]
OFFICIERS #1
How is the lad? DAMMIT! I told him...warned him not to hang around... [Dracula shakes his head, slight bowed. The officier curses and removes his helmet in respect. Tom stires once again, and moans as his eyes flicker open.]
DRACULA
Hush now, Mater Bell. Be still and try to conserve your strenght.{Choaking back tears.}
TOM
I'm so cold...so c-c-cold [with shiver], wish I had I cloak like yours. [Dracula wraps his cape around as if to stave off the cold from the boy. It does little good. Dracula begins to weep.] I saw him sah. His eyes...{cough} his eyes...so very cold. Such a...{cough} cane...so magical...{cough, cough}so cold.
DRACULA
Rest now Tom, you'll be warm very soon. [Dracula wipes eyes as he strokes Tom's forehead lightly.] Remember Tom, you'll be a fine doctor one day, [chokes back tears] or a barrister, or anything you...
[ A convulsion wracks Tom body, and his body goes limp.
Dracula, in grief, releases an unearthly scream and a curse to the malevolent creature who is responsible.]
TELGEN !!! You malicious BASTARD!!! [Weeps.]
OFFICIER #1
Nothing we can do now sir, the wagon will be here..[In the lamp light, Dracula's unique dental appendiges becomes quite apparent to the officer for the first time.]...what, what are you? [Officer draws his night-stick, and faces Dracula in a very defensive posture.] Stand away from the boy, mister. Right now!!
DRACULA
[Places cape over the body. Dracula rises to his feet, a foot and a half taller than the officer.] My name, officer, is Count Vladimer Sebastian Dracula...[Looks down at body, then back to meet the officers stare.] and I'm here to help you catch a madman.
[Dracula places both hands outward to show his willingness, as the officer slowly places the handcuffs on Dracula. Lights fade to black. Lights come up on curtain. From stage left, another paperboy is screaming the morning headlines as he walks across the stage.]
BOY
EXTRA! EXTRA! Read all about it! Newsboy killed! Suspect caught in serial killings!
EXTRA! EXTRA! [A DARK FIGURE/SHADOW IS SEEN AGAINST THE WALL. A DEEP THROATY CHUCKLE IS HEARD.
Lights fade all the way.]
END ACT 7
SCENE 8--INT.-SCOTLAND YARD-DAY
[Lights come up to show a modern interrogation/holding cell at Scotland Yard Headquarters. Two detectives are discussing the case.]
DETECTIVE 2
Colin, just remember. We don't know what or who we're dealing with here. Hell, I always figured the greatest event to finish off the twentith centruy would be positive proof of life in outer space or {BEAT} total peace in the middle east? But this?!? It's too....
DETECTIVE 1{Colin}
Weird? That one word for it Maggie. Remember old Shakespeare's quote "....there's more things in heaven and earth Heraitio then was dreamed of in your philosophies...", well this one's a definate earth- bound situation.
DETECTIVE 2{MAGGIE}
Thanks Colin. [Subject change.] Recording devices working? We don't want to miss a single word.
DETECTIVE 1{COLIN}
Er...yes. Not that it's a concern to him...Mr. Dracula...uh..[Looks towards Maggie who simply shrugs shoulders and gestures towards towards him as if to say "Go ahead and say it"]..ok, Dracula. He, uh, knows we've been recording him and that the interrogation room is wired.
MAGGIE
HE KNOWS?!? How did he knew...know? {Throws hands in the air} (sarcaticly) WONDERFULL!!
COLIN
The first day of questioning, he, as always, was being very cooperative. During the preliminary questioning, he asked US if we were planning to record this session of the questioning, and I said no. [Maggie shakes her head as if amused] I realised I slipped, so I kept the honesty and cooperation level open on so I admitted to the devises. He said he was quite open to the devises, considering the trail was to be opened to the media. He did, however, say that with any electrical machine, we should have someone with the equipment while it was operating. I assured him nothing was operating in the adjacent room. He was adament about it, said he could hear a definate electrical hum and could see an increased heat pattern through the wall. Since he claimed to hear no human heart beat in the room, he deduced it to be empty. And he was right in every instance.
MAGGIE
Heaven and earth, eh. [Knock at Door.] Sound like our dear Count Dracula is ready for another round of conversation. [Is about to walk out the door.] Oh, and anything else?
COLIN
He said to be sure to have plenty of videotape. [Maggie shakes her head and leaves. Colin is alone as he collects his thoughts. Dracula enters the room.] Welcome. Please be seated. Can we get you anything?
DRACULA
How about a Bloody Mary? [Colin Looks Shocked.] Relax, Lt. Hayworth. I'd really like a nice cup of tea, if I could.
COLINS
[SMILES] I think we can definately arrange THAT. Officer Peters, if you please. [Officer leaves. Returns momentarily with tea.] Thank you, I'll call you when needed. [Officer leaves. Mood becomes more serious.] Please state your full name and age for the records.
DRACULA
Count Vladimer Sebastion Draula. My age, roughly 450 years.
COLIN
THE Count Dracula. The one read about and watched in the movies since my childhood? The unholy creature that dwells with the creatures of the night?
DRACULA
A bit simplistic and melodramatic. To answer you question, yes...and no. I am neither a lunatic nor a ruthless blood-sucking killer. What and who I am is a wrongly accused victim, trying my best to clear my name and track down the suspected killer. With your help, of course.
COLIN
Mister...Count, whatever your name is, YOU are our prime suspect right now. With those incisors of yours, and that story you laid upon us, you'll either be thrown into the nuthatch, or for the first time in almost 100 years, you'll be executed for high murder by a uni-laterally appointed court.
DRACULA
How in the name of Telgen, can they accuse me! I was there WITH the officers when we came upon the body of Thomas. We all saw the figure run from the scene, the one officer continued a foot chase. He lost the figure in the shadows. I was there comforting the boy. Even...[Silence] even after Thomas left this world. Surely the officers can corroberate my story.
COLIN
Look dammit, they don't remember all the events clearly. They saw something...but what, they cannot say.
A reflection on a building perhaps, maybe something else. What they remember is you asking alot of questions at body of victim #1 and they shouting something and racing towards the boy while a "Shadow" moved away from the body and down
the alley with one officer in pursuit and the other remaining. The remaining officer did say that you show great concern for the boy and tried to make the boy as comfortable as possible. According to the coronors report [Turns to pick up a folder on desk] {pause}".. both victims were found to have had every ounce of blood and fluid drained from the body." They found money in the boy's pocket with your finger prints on it. For circumstantal evidence, it's pretty convincing. We need to know where you've been lately, who's can identify you at someplace other than the places the murders have taken place. Can anyone substantiate your stories. Anyone?
DRACULA
My valet, Karl and gardener Jonah at my home can provide testemonials as to my whereabouts during some of the murders.There are others who can give you character references. But the matters at hand must be attended to, specificly the evidence at hand. And the capture of the true culprit. My unique skills are at your service.
COLIN
Skills? Who do you think you are, Sherlock Holmes. No, I forget, you're Count Dracula. Well, Count, why don't you turn yourself into a bat and just fly away!
DRACULA
{Chuckles} Old Brahms did quite a job on my reputation. My skills are not up to the standards of the late Mr. Holmes, but my special abilities with certain specic of animals have helped me get by. As for turning into a bat, well, a few of my winged friends would most likely place some hard wagers on me pulling off a stunt like that.
COLIN
Winged friends...Late Mr....never mind. Oh, I can feel a whopper of a headache coming on. Your trial starts in three weeks, so you'd better pray that we catch the real killer soon. And with the leaders of
every nation building a case against the killer, they'll be looking for a scape-goat to pin these crimes onto.
DRACULA
Three week. Not much time to build a strong defense. Scape-goat, more like sacrificial lamb to the wolves. Ah, the wheels of justice.
COLIN
Any way you look at it, it's a dead issue...no pun intended. [Rises and knocks on door. Officer enters and Dracula rises to leave.] If its any consulation, [Dracula Turns to face Colin.]..I believe your story. Everything. It's just hard...you know, believing such a story. Look at it from our stand point. Would you believe it?
DRACULA
No, I guess not. I do realise the story I've told you sounds far-fetched. One believer, too many left to convince. I'm just not sure even theories would help me.
COLIN
Theories??
DRACULA
One idea... too wild and horrifying to imagine, impossible to believe yet.....
COLIN
[With Interest Piqued.] Yet?
DRACULA
A villan, more evil than anything imagined by humankind or vampirekind. But as such, dead. Destroyed...by my own hands decades ago. Yet, these murder reek of his mannerisms. I just cannot be sure anymore. {Shakes Head} Here, perhaps, is the last place justice will triumph in the end, and set forth a true tragied of errors.
END SCENE 8
SCENE 9
INT.-AFTERNOON-SCOTLAND YARD CONFRENCE ROOM
[LIGHTS FADE UP TO NEW SCOTLAND YARD. EXTERIER SHOT. CUT TO INTERIOR SHOT OF MEDIUM-SIZE BRIEFING ROOM. PEOPLE WITH CAMERAS AND VIDEO EQUIPMENT ARE ASSAILING THE DETECTIVE WITH QUESTIONS. CHIEF INSPECTOR IS ABOUT TO ENTER THE ROOM TO BRIEF THE MEDIA WITH NEWS ABOUT THE CASE.]
MEDIA 1
They say that the police have a real nutcase in the downstairs detention cells. Our sources say the guy was using a high tech machine to drain the blood from the body. AND that he was selling the blood to Columbian druglords.
MEDIA 2
Well...OUR sources tell us that it was a group of people Mafia druglords looking for the fountain of youth and sacrificing virgins to pagen gods.
MEDIA 3
UH--Huh. Where are you from , you sound American?
MEDIA 2
I'm from a family run news network in Minnesota, looking at it from Minnesota perspective. Actually ....we're looking for a good violent story to boost our ratings in our market during ratings week.
MEDIA 3
Figures. {LOOKS AROUND ROOM}
Look..here comes Chief Inspector Layton now. Geez, he look as if he hasn't slept in days.
CHIEF INSPECTOR I HAVE...[THE CROWD OF MEDIA NEWS PEOPLE START SLINGING QUESTIONS RIGHT AND LEFT AT THE INSPECTOR. HE RAISES HIS HANDS AS IF THE QUIET THEM]
INSPECTOR LAYTON
Ladies and Gentlemen of the press, please can we have a little silence. [Pause. Voices calm down.] Thank you. The rumors that you have been hearing need to be clarified and set straight.
ONE -We HAVE caught a suspect whom we believe to be the serial killer. The evidence is strong and points to the suspect, but it is circumstantial.
TWO -There is NO evidence to the rumor that the suspect was working with anyone, underworld or otherwise.
THREE -[LONG PAUSE] This is the news that you might find most disturbing. According to the testimony taken from the suspect, and corroberating evidence from the former Russian Republics internal police forces and local authorities...it is believed that our prisoner is ...and you'll understand why we haven't disclosed his name until now ...it seems that our suspect is the legendary character of myth known as Count Dracula.
[SHOUTS OF DISBLIEF AND ASTONISHMENT FILL THE ROOM FROM THE NEWSPEOPLE. SOME PANIC SEEMS TO OCCUR. LAYTON SHOUTS ABOVE THE NOISE.]
PLEASE! PLEASE! Let's be calm about this. Whether he is for whom he claims to be or not, it will be brought forward during the trial. I will state for the record that this will a fair and equitable trial operated by the World Court under the auspice of the United Nations. Remember when you write your by-lines that it's innocent until proven guilty.
{BEAT}
Charges have been filed by five of the governments of the world and more pending with only the former Soviet block countries abstaining due to our prisoners aiding those countries during the plague outbreak two years ago. England has withheld making formal charges due to...ah...testimonials being presented by several members of the royal family. One member refuses to cooperate.
MEDIA 1
Which members are they? What are their connections to Dracula?
MEDIA 2
What of the witnesses tesifying for the defendant? Are these witnesses vampires also?
LAYTON
PLEASE!! PLEASE...one question at a time.
Max Sevrens [Journalist-New York Times]
What about the other victims? Is there any proof he committed all the other crimes? How could he get around?
LAYTON
If we are to assume that he is the genuine article, who knows what powers this person/creature is capable of? Also, he has requested an open court trial, which means you has the media will be allowed in view the trial. Within reason, of course.
MEDIA 2
Within reason?
LAYTON
We involved with the case refuse to allow this to become a media circus, thus possibly swaying the judgement one way or the other for the accused. Video coverage will utilize an internal video camera system at the the neutral court site.
MEDIA 1
Where is this site. Is it here in England?
LAYTON
The site chosen by the United Nations Security Council, due to the fact that none of the murders have occurred there and thus no prejudgical feelings, will be Australia. A special judgement board of seven judges from around the world will preside. The U.N. will appoint a prosecuting attorney. The defendant has chosen to defend himself. The trial will begin in three weeks time.
MAX
Aren't they rushing the trial a little bit?
LAYTON
No comment.
MAX
When can we speak to "Dracula?" Where is he being kept?
LAYTON
You will all get a chance to interview him. As to where his cell is, that must remain confidential. For his safety ....and ours.
MAX
That, sounded rather ominous Chief Inspector. Can you elaborate further?
LAYTON
Off the record, ladies and gentlemen? [Pause as video cameras and audio equipment is turned off.] Thank you.
{FLASHBACK SEQUENCE}
Yesterday, as Detective Sargent Colins was to take
the prisoner to his special holding cell, the door to the holding cell was jammed. When we told him not
to worry and that we'll have a locksmith here straight away. Dracula replied not to bother, gave us an impish smile and asked us to step back. We did. He gazed coldly and intently at the cell door for a moment, clapped his hands together and the door
flew open with a bang. [A low whistle and murmuring is heard from the crowd.] We are abit apprehensive holding him, yet curious why he hasn't tried to
escape from us.
