The Legend of Gotham

THE LEGEND OF GOTHAM

byWalter Herrera

Based on characters by Christopher Nolan, Jonathan Nolan, and David S. Goyer

Batman created byBob Kane

01/01/[email protected]

T H E L E G E N D O F G O T H A M

We’re under the ocean. LIGHTNING FLASHES. A THUNDER RUMBLES- felt more than heard. A massive plume of bubbles surface. Out of the depths- THE BAT SYMBOL. We follow it deep, having the darkness consume us.

CUT TO:

BLACKNESS

An early morning sun fights its way through tiny barred windows.

INT. SOLITARY CELL, PRISON -- MORNING

A guard peeks through the door grille. He speaks Russian:

GUARDMercenary.

A bearded prisoner comes into the light. He’s battered.

GUARDTime to fly.

INT. SOLITARY HALL, PRISON -- LATER

The guard leads the man, gripping his shoulder. They pass a security booth... With TWO GUARDS inside.

The guards nod at the prisoner. Glacial.

INT. SECURITY BOOTH, PRISON -- SAME

At the feet of the two guards, FOUR MEN lay on their stomachs, gagged and tied. Their SECURITY BADGES clapping on the floor. One looks up, trying to gasp for a breath, but is met with a thick boot to the FACE.

EXT. MOVING OVER OGNENNY OSTROV (PRISON ISLAND) -- MORNING

A bright, TOURIST HELICOPTER moves towards the small island centered in a wide lake. A single bridge leads to mainland...

EXT. PRISON GRAVEYARD -- MORNING

An armed guard strides through early morning dew. HEARS the drumming helicopter blades. Echoing close by. Without thinking, he CLUTCHES onto his rifle and RUNS back towards the prison grounds.

EXT. TERRACE, PRISON -- MORNING

Cables are strung across the central yard at five-meter intervals.

Two masked men, already flooding through the narrow path, plant EXPLOSIVES at the hoists.

They pull away...

KER-RACK! The explosives send a folly of fireworks, SNAPPING the cables and WHIPPING them onto the ground.

EXT. GUARD TOWER -- CONTINUOUS

A resounding boom. The stationed guard strikes a look around the compound. He looks out to see the helicopter- TERRIBLY LOW and CHARGING FAST.

The guard stands, hits the alarm, and grabs a shotgun.

EXT. CENTRAL YARD, PRISON -- MORNING

Through the double gates, up the stairs, and past the entry way the bearded prisoner steps OUTSIDE. Just in time to see the helicopter CROSSING OVERHEAD.

It halts to a hover. Without the cables the yard is exposed, and as the helicopter slowly descends- A ROPE LADDER is thrown.

The prisoner grips onto the ladder. His feet dangling. The helicopter PULLS UP. Suspended, the prisoner looks back at the guard STILL on the yard.

Hair whipping in the helicopter’s gust, the guard simply takes a step back and WAVES goodbye...

INT. HELICOPTER -- LATER

The prisoner straightens himself in a seat. A masked man slides the door closed. Nothing but rotor noise. The prisoner speaks in perfect English:

2.

PRISONERTo leave them behind is thoughtless.

MASKED MAN(Russian accent)

They have assurance. Promised much more than me and the pilot.

PRISONERNot necessary...

MASKED MANA necessary action to protect the lives of their families.

EXT. CENTRAL YARD, PRISON -- MORNING

A steady flow of men in uniform BURST outside. All eyes fall on the GUARD who turns his back towards them.

The guard snags a pea whistle out of his breast pocket. Splitting it open reveals a PILL inside. He puts it in his mouth and BITES.

He walks three steps... on the fourth he collapses. Convulsing, FOAM runs at his mouth.

INT. HELICOPTER -- MORNING

MASKED MANI’m not involved after we touch ground.

PRISONERWhere’s the job, then.

MASKED MANI don’t know.

The prisoner gives up, sits back.

PRISONERYou’re a man with seriously not a single point of praise.

He looks out back at the prison, now fading in the mist.

INT. COURTROOM, SUPERIOR COURT -- MORNING

An objective drawing of BRUCE WAYNE slouching in his chair. The sketch artist begins to add color.

3.

Bruce Wayne, in the middle of a BENCH TRIAL, has taken the stand. A well suited DEFENSE ATTORNEY speaks:

DEFENSE ATTORNEYLet’s take that in a couple of steps. Do you have a doctorate, Mr. Wayne?

WAYNENo.

DEFENSE ATTORNEYDid you personally provide the research and development of the anesthetic titled: “Senoflurane?”

WAYNEI did.

DEFENSE ATTORNEYCan you describe in detail how your product works?

Wayne strains to see under stressed eyes. He appreciatively nods to the question.

WAYNEOnce inhaled it depresses the central nervous system. Making a patient fall unconscious. It dilutes after breathing oxygen for some time.

DEFENSE ATTORNEY(to judge)

May I approach the stand?

JUDGEYou may.

DEFENSE ATTORNEY(moving closer)

And were you responsible for the patent of said anesthetic?

WAYNEYes.

DEFENSE ATTORNEY(to courtroom)

I have it here with me in my hand.

The attorney holds it in front of Wayne. Drops it in his hands.

4.

DEFENSE ATTORNEY It relates to the methods for preparation of Senoflurane. A quote, “fluorine substituted volatile anesthetic.” Am I right?

WAYNECorrect.

DEFENSE ATTORNEYNow, can you describe in detail why you felt such a need for Wayne Chemicals to enter the business of anesthesia?

Among the plaintiffs, LUCIUS FOX, the CEO of Wayne Enterprises. He’s sitting, surrounded by lawyers. He whispers to his own attorney.

FOXIs it safe to say I’m nervous now?

INT. STUDIO, GOTHAM BROADCASTING CENTER -- CONTINUOUS

It’s dark. Sitting in a chair is COMMISSIONER JAMES GORDON. A whisper comes from across the room:

FEMALE VOICE (V.O.)Remember. With passion.

FLASH! A dozen lights point in every direction. Gordon’s right in the center of a small sound stage.

CAMERAMANFive seconds!

A journalist, JENNIFER MOORE, 30’s, sits across Gordon. She takes over:

JENNIFERThis is Jennifer Moore at Newsline Noon, joining me now is Gotham City Police Commissioner James Gordon. Welcome.

GORDONThank you for having me.

She gets to business:

JENNIFERWhen did you first hear there were problems in the city’s east end?

5.

Gordon flashes a smile.

GORDONI think we’ve always known about the condemned buildings and the number of squatters living under poor conditions. Now, there are many challenges being faced, especially when the area is under constant criminal investigation.

INT. CONTROL ROOM, GOTHAM BROADCASTING CENTER -- CONTINUOUS

Gordon’s face is plastered along the wall of video monitors.

MIXERWhat’d you say?

TECHNICAL DIRECTORGordon’s suppose to have caught Batman by now. But he didn’t, and he ain’t. Hence, “he’s a schmuck.”

MIXERAnd I’d like to see you put on the Commissioner’s shoes for a day.

TECHNICAL DIRECTORYeah right.


JENNIFERThis initiative with the mayor. Where do you fit in?

GORDONI think last January we’ve come across solutions in building a better and safer community. One is building new homes. But two is keeping an eye, or putting surveillance amongst known crime rings.

JENNIFERAs you build, and rebuild, parts of Old Gotham.

6.

GORDONYes. As we build. Planning resources and strategies are needed to address the problems of slum development.

JENNIFERSome would argue that the sudden initiative favors the Mayor’s wishes, and with elections being around the corner-

GORDON(slightly irritated)

Well, certainly that’s a question you’d ask the mayor.

INT. COURTROOM, SUPERIOR COURT -- CONTINUOUS

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEYObjection your honor! Argumentative.

JUDGEAgain, you’ll have him on the cross. This is a direct examination. I’ll overrule the objection.

(to defense attorney)You may proceed.

DEFENSE ATTORNEYI’ll drop that question.

JUDGEContinue.

DEFENSE ATTORNEY(to Wayne)

Explain what you mean by “identifiable?”

WAYNEWe’re able to pinpoint the patients who have used the product- Our anesthetic, by taking breath samples- it acts as a great copyright.

DEFENSE ATTORNEYCan you describe why you personally believe in the need for a general anesthetic to be detectable?

7.

Bruce hesitates. Thinks up the answer as he speaks.

WAYNEIn a hospital, measurements can be more precise. It’s a well known fact that the choices made by anesthesiologists can have a large carbon footprint. I decided it was time to create something... more green. It was appealing.

DEFENSE ATTORNEYLet me direct you to the Plaintiffs Exhibit 8. It says that the police have used your product for catching criminals. Is that true?

WAYNETo my knowledge I wouldn’t know.

DEFENSE ATTORNEYIs it in the realm of possibility that they might use it as a tool for detection?

Bruce swallows hard.


GORDONNo. Crime families are a thing of the past. My team of investigators, and myself have no reason to believe there’s any hint of systematic methodology amongst certain groups.

JENNIFERNormally with something like organized crime you have ties with Batman. Do you ever question Batman’s motives?

GORDONThat’s an interesting question. It’s not easy being able to surveil someone who’s under the radar so to speak. Information needs to be exploited, and we have no info on him.

8.

JENNIFERThere’s nothing on Batman? Has he fled the city?

GORDONI’m saying that Batman has turned into something like a myth.


DEFENSE ATTORNEYSo the word, “hemihyrdate,” doesn’t mean anything to you?

Wayne stalls. He looks over to Lucius, who crosses his arms. Pissed beyond all measure.

DEFENSE ATTORNEY Let me remind you you’re under oath.

Wayne licks his lips. Hard to read.

WAYNEI haven’t heard of it.


JENNIFERHere’s what’s interesting, and I ask from curiosity: Wouldn’t the very presence of Batman inspire or encourage masked criminals?

GORDONI... I can’t really say. But I do know same time last year, arrests are thirty percent less, while maintaining the same head count at our departments. Less copycats, less thugs. There haven’t been too many...

JENNIFERIndividuals in crime?

GORDON(nodding)

Individuals in crime.

9.


DEFENSE ATTORNEYDo you have an opinion as to whether executives should posit a profound knowledge of their products?

WAYNEYes, I do.

DEFENSE ATTORNEYAnd what is that opinion?

WAYNE...Yes, they should.

The attorney raps his knuckles on a wooden rail.

DEFENSE ATTORNEYYour honor. We’re moving into another subject. And it appears to be close to another break.

Wayne inhales quietly. Off the hook.

JUDGEWill you continue your examination tomorrow?

DEFENSE ATTORNEYYes. I think that makes sense.

JUDGEAll right. We’ll recess for the day. We will reconvene the examination. Thank you.

And with startling authority:

DEPUTY CLERKAll rise.

INT. BOARDROOM, WAYNE ENTERPRISES -- MORNING

Lucius Fox sits at the head of the table. Across from him a woman in her 40’s, JANICE COTELLO. We can see her hands folded together. Her eyes, cold and direct.

10.

COTELLOThis is- if it's not the largest trial that's been heard in Gotham City, it equates with the largest trial certainly in recent memory. So what’s the word?

FOXWhat’s the word? We sued them! They sued back; it’s all back and forth. How’s the husband?

COTELLOJoe? We’re getting divorced.

FOXOh. Sorry.

COTELLOI’m not. But listen- so if I make a table cloth and they use it as a blanket- that’s not a misuse of the product?

FOXAccording to them, there would be no patent infringement since such use would not be for the... purpose of utilizing the teachings of the patent. Quote on quote.

Cotello flips her arms, groans:

COTELLOThat’s total and complete garbage!

FOXPipe down.

COTELLORoland Daggett is killing you, Fox!

FOX(modest)

Roland Daggett’s a powerful man. He’s not a quitter.

COTELLOYou have to start bending the rules and stop playing day-care.

FOXExcuse me?

11.

COTELLOLet me be frank. We are the directors of our firm. And Wayne is your top aide. We’ve all agreed on what our problem is.

Fox. Suddenly interested in conversation.

FOXAnd what is that?

COTELLOBruce Wayne. But he owns enough stock to tell all of us what to do. But we can join together.

FOXHe has thirty six percent. The board, together, would only have twenty six. You can’t vote him out.

COTELLOThat’s why we’re counting on you. With you, we could out-vote the playboy.

FOXAnd you daydreamed this all while we were at the Daggett trial?

COTELLOYes and no. He’s always had a rocky relationship with the company. There’s an improper influence over corporate decision making.

FOXNow just hold on a minute. I have found over the years that it’s critically important to master the facts quickly and then find a strategy to follow. Here, I see no facts, and no strategy.

COTELLOSee, there’s only three issues: removal as a director, termination of employment, and disposal of his shares.

(low)But I knew you wouldn’t agree.

She stands up. Smooths her blouse and begins to leave.

12.

FOXIt seems your actual expectations were slightly removed from desires.

COTELLOI suppose that’s true.

Cotello reaches the door.

FOXBut Janice. I didn’t... I don’t disagree with you.

She draws a thin smile. Almost malevolent.

COTELLOThen I’ll let you sit on it.

And she’s gone.

EXT. DOCKS -- EVENING

Containerized cargo litter the massive port.

Two mask wearing men accommodate a break-bulk CARGO SHIP. From out of the deck, THE PRISONER. His coat is wet with ocean water. This time he’s clean shaven, save for a generous moustache.

The two men await for him as he descends the ramp. The first masked man:

HADESFloyd Lawton?

The prisoner, FLOYD, nods.

The second masked man:

ANUBISWelcome to America.

INT. CARGO WAREHOUSE, DOCKS -- EVENING

A lone black limo sits between two freight containers. Floyd enters the back.

13.

INT. LIMO -- EVENING

Four manila folders lay on the seat. He looks towards the front. No response from the driver. He begins to open the first folder.

Suddenly- A VIBRATING BUZZ. A CELLPHONE is placed in the wine rack. Floyd picks it up. Quickly puts it to SPEAKER and tosses it to the side. He listens as he scans through the folders.

VOICEGood evening Mr. Lawton. You have been invited to a a seminal geopolitical event and I welcome you with open arms...

Floyd opens the wine rack, serves himself a glass of ice.

FLOYDSo, I heard you move through the sewers.

Floyd cracks an ice cube in his jaw.

VOICEWhy yes, we follow a clandestine cell structure and we’ve been duly impressed by your work...

Floyd smiles.

FLOYDI don’t disappoint.

INT. GORDON’S OFFICE -- EVENING

Gordon. Quiet, head hung low. On the phone:

GORDONHello, James? Let me speak to your mother. I know son. I miss you too. Now get mom. With your sister? All right. Please tell her... are you there? Tell her I’ll try to reach her later. Okay? Love you.

He hangs up. Clearly vexed. A moment later:

GORDON I wasn’t sure you’d come. You’re on your own more and more these days.

14.

From out of the shadows: BATMAN.

BATMANYou held yourself on television.

GORDONYou watched that? What else is there to talk about? It’s “crime” this, “Batman” that. I’ve gotten no sleep. Not even a good four hours of my time.

BATMANYou’ve been through worse.

GORDONYeah, well.

BATMANWhat do you need?

Gordon sighs. Regains composure.

GORDONI have an inside man. He’s setting up a sting operation so we nab them for a little more than “tax evasion.” It has to be big time.

Gordon stands. Shuffles through a document cabinet. He pulls out a photo that we never manage to see...

GORDONThat’s a picture of him, case you run into each other. He’s gone dark, so I have little access to him.

Gordon gives the photo to Batman. Batman doesn’t look, and instead puts it in his utility pouch.

Gordon dismisses it.

GORDON Every major gang head in Gotham is dead or put away. But these guys recently got an anonymous summons. To me, it sounds more like a cult.

BATMANHow long has he been inside?

15.

GORDONA good deal actually. He’s more than a simple thug I suppose. So without blowing his cover, I think he’ll begin to page you.

(closes cabinet)Make sure you don’t knock him-

Gordon turns to face nothing but a blowing curtain by the window.

EXT. OVER GOTHAM -- NIGHT

The city is alive. Echoes stir. Soon, over a hillside-

EXT. WAYNE MANOR -- CONTINUOUS

The FAMILY MANSION stands tall as it once did. Overlooking Gotham.

INT. LIBRARY, WAYNE MANOR -- NIGHT

A sparse collection. A single rocking chair. A dusty globe.

IN A HALLWAY, unhung paintings litter the corridor. Sharing the space with vases of all shapes.

DINING HALL, warm and inviting. Organized.

Around the corner, adding a finishing touch to a gourmet soup: ALFRED PENNYWORTH.

INT. KITCHEN, WAYNE MANOR -- CONTINUOUS

Alfred enters a KITCHEN ELEVATOR. Types in a code.

It descends.

INT. CORRIDOR, SERVER ROOM -- CONTINUOUS

Alfred exits through a series of COMPUTING SERVERS. They rhythmically hum.

As he stares down a wide passage he finally gets a sense of where he is. Turns a corner, and seemingly speaks to himself:

16.

ALFREDMaster Wayne? Would you be surprised if I said I was lost for a moment?

Bruce Wayne is head first into a floor panel. He emerges.

WAYNEDon’t be embarrassed, I get lost too.

ALFRED(re: the soup)

The last of anything edible I’m afraid. Hope you enjoy.

WAYNEJust put it down, I’m trying to figure out this satellite link up.

ALFREDAnd what do you think will happen if you as much as tip it over by accident?

Wayne grabs the bowl as he stands.

WAYNEFine.

(after a spoonful)Not bad.

ALFREDNow, if you want anything more appetizing, you might have to press yourself and unlock your bank accounts.

WAYNEStill locked?

ALFREDQuite.

WAYNEWell Alfred, consider it done.

He gets back to work. But Alfred isn’t finished with the conversation.

ALFREDWhy freeze hundreds of millions of dollars, when all I ask is just enough to bake with?

17.

WAYNEIt’s just the money I spend... and the bank thinking it’s some illegal ploy...

ALFREDAs long as its under your definition of legal.

WAYNEOf course.

ALFREDNow, where’s the laundry again?

WAYNEIt’s in the lower level-

ALFREDCareful now, ‘twas rhetorical.

Alfred turns to leave, missing Wayne’s face turning sour.

WAYNEAlfred, there’s laundry on the first floor too.

ALFREDHm. I thank you for your mild consideration. My age is getting the better of me. These pant legs can only bend so much.

Wayne springs up, dusts his sleeves, looking at Alfred as he does it.

WAYNEYou just reminded me.

INT. MASTER ROOM, WAYNE MANOR -- LATER

An immeasurable room. Only matched by its immeasurable- MASSIVE WALK-IN CLOSET.

Distracted by a sense of sudden desolation, Alfred musters a few words:

ALFREDJust like I remembered it. Complicated.

Wayne pulls out a suit.

18.

WAYNEI need this prepped. It’s for a business presentation. Out of state.

ALFREDWhat is this?

Alfred pokes his finger through a tear.

WAYNEI think one of the bats... got fancy with the lint.

ALFREDI guess you need that sowed up as well?

WAYNEWill you?

ALFREDWhen have I ever said no?

Alfred reaches for a tie.

EXT. EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE -- DAY

A GLIMMER in the bright blue sky. It begins to touch down on the airstrip. Towards a crowd of businessmen under the shade of an open hangar. A technical advisor is lecturing to the crowd.

ADVISORWith a payload of 100 kilograms and an automated planning system that can automatically perform all aspects of an attack mission, including weapons release. It won’t be too many more years before pilots are flying this thing and probably nothing more.

The glimmer soon cuts through the desert mirage. It is a DRONE AIRCRAFT.

ADVISOR Detailed protocols which identifies vehicles for military use has designated the next generation craft the “MQ-90 WRAITH.” A key player in the future of unmanned special missions.

19.

The Wraith comes to a halt in front of the crowd. Its 40 foot wingspan envelopes them.

Among the crowd: BRUCE WAYNE and LUCIUS FOX. Lucius leans towards Wayne, speaks softly:

LUCIUSI know what you’re thinking. And the answer is “no.”

WAYNEYou know me too well. But I already arranged everything. It’ll be great addition to my automobile collection.

LUCIUSAutomobiles. This look like an automobile to you?

WAYNEWell. The basement’s very... wide. And long... too much space for any meager old car. I’m expanding my tastes.

Lucius inhales. Holds it in.

LUCIUSWe never spoke about this!

WAYNEI’m an adult Lucius, I can buy whatever I want.

LUCIUS...I mean, “this conversation never took place.” I don’t know what you have in your basement, and quite frankly I don’t want to know. You can keep those skeletons.

Wayne loosens up. Acts as if they just met.

WAYNEI’m sorry, who are you?

LUCIUSOh, I’m the guy who funded the engine for that multi-million dollar collection piece.

WAYNEAh. Impressive. You should be proud.

20.

LUCIUS(smug)

I am.

INT. DILAPIDATED FACTORY -- DUSK

A building that fell into disrepair and eventual abandonment.

Floyd ignores his surroundings. He steps through the crumbling hallways to find a double door.

INT. KITCHEN, DILAPIDATED FACTORY -- DUSK

Inside, Floyd is led by a lanky old man wearing a DEVIL MASK.

They enter the back of the room. Where a staircase leads downstairs...

INT. BASEMENT, DILAPIDATED FACTORY -- DUSK

Floyd is pushed past armed men. While the old man is told to wait.

Transparent vinyl curtains see into aisles of loaded pallets.

One curtain catches Floyd’s attention. Beyond is a surgical chair. It is complete with stainless steel instruments neatly placed on tables.

VOICE (V.O.)Ah, Floyd.

Out of the shadows, a man. Tall and with wide shoulders. Hands pressed in the pockets of a well-travelled suit.

His face is of an EBONY SKULL. He has no name, but he’s colloquially called BLACK MASK.

BLACK MASKWalk with me as we talk.

Floyd is grabbed by the shoulder and is led away from the room.

INT. BASEMENT HALLWAY, DILAPIDATED FACTORY -- CONTINUOUS

BLACK MASKWe’re living in a turbulent period and Gotham is entering an age of incipient change.

21.

FLOYDActions louder than words, yada yada. But I’m not the public type-

Black Mask slaps him in the gut.

BLACK MASKDoes it bug you if I call you by your name?

FLOYDWithout, please.

BLACK MASKI completely understand. But see here, nameless is what we do best, though it’s not equivalent to being faceless.

FLOYDI don’t need a mask if that’s what you mean.

BLACK MASKAh, there is virtue in simply being different my friend. It gets noticed.

FLOYDThere is also virtue in being unexpected. My work gets noticed.

BLACK MASKAgreed. A good assassin fits. If an assassin is genuinely expected then that’s prima facie evidence that it does not fit, and hence a bad assassin.

FLOYDI think in the end, we’ll both be happy.

BLACK MASKMore to the point. You’re an itinerant gunslinger. Where I’m the unknown wanderer, you’re hellfire on a horse. I am the hand, and you are the weapon.

FLOYDI can live with that. When do I start?

22.

They reach the end of the hallway. A STEEL DOOR begs to be opened. As Black Mask grabs hold of the knob:

BLACK MASKRight now.

INT. MAYOR’S OFFICE -- NIGHT

Gordon squeezes through the door.

GORDONWhat’s up?

THE MAYOR clicks open a briefcase.

MAYORIt’s that time, Gordon.

GORDONElections. Dreadful.

MAYORYou know, a person has to be willing to spend an enormous number of hours dedicated to the city- because that’s what it takes.And if someone thinks they can do better, then so be it. I’m ready to step down. The question is, how are we going to help the new blood step up?

GORDONRight, we’re having that conversation.

MAYORYes. Batman.

INT. WAREHOUSE -- NIGHT

Anubis and Hades. Busy loading a truck. The CREAKING of a door echoes through the chamber. The two men LOOK-

A pair of BLACK DUTY BOOTS step into the warehouse. It is FLOYD, who wears a loose fitting LONG COAT. Underneath is a custom load bearing vest.

He moves with a measured pace of authority, approaching the waiting men. One of whom steps up.

HADESSir. Welcome to the Society.

23.

INT. MONESTARY -- DAY

A beautiful vista of a grand forest. Bruce Wayne wears a ritualistic uniform as he practices KENDO.

With divine guidance his sword FLASHES. His technique is impeccable. SUDDENLY- from a not too far distance. The sounds of COMPUTER reading out data.

Bruce dials in on his wristwatch. And his surroundings begin to PEEL AWAY.

INT. BAT CAVE -- CONTINUOUS

The monestary backdrop is a CYLINDRICAL SCREEN. As it reaches the ceiling, Bruce walks over to his command center. A PLETHORA OF MONITORS. Detailing live traffic reports, weather, and satellite feeds.

Bruce closes in on a small screen displaying PAGER REPORTS. It reads: ILLEGAL WEAPONS. PORT ADAMS. SINCERELY, INSIDER.

INT. BAT CAVE -- LATER

A platform, surrounded by infinite depth, perched against the cave wall. Right next to it- Moonlight penetrates a CRASHING WATERFALL.

The platform floor ILLUMINATES. Individual chambers glow, revealing an extensive wardrobe. Bruce hangs his Kendo uniform.

BATS, agitated by the light FLUTTER in the echoing chamber. SHADOWS. Countless. They bounce eerily, until one shadow consumes them. THE BATMAN.

EXT. MOVING OVER THE DOCKS -- NIGHT

The sky is bathed in dark, sickly hues. The clouds move fast, over a powerful, HOWLING WIND. The polluted waters of Gotham CRASH against the docks.

EXT. ROOF, WAREHOUSE -- NIGHT

Towards a small window. We see the amber glow inside the warehouse. Alluring. We might mistake this view as a P.O.V.

FLOYD (V.O.)They call me Deadshot for a reason.

24.


Floyd swipes sweat from under his chin. A BALLISTIC MASK crowns his scalp. He’s under the headlights of a heavy duty truck, in a military pep talk:

FLOYD(holding a 20mm round)

With this package I can miss, but the velocity of the shockwave alone is enough to tear off your arm. With this bullet, I am an unerring marksman.

He kicks two large military backpacks.

Anubis and Hades each pick one up. They head inside the truck. As it pulls away, Floyd looks to the ceiling- A NOISE?

MASKED THUGWhat’s that?

Floyd casually slips on his mask, his association with The Society being complete:

DEADSHOT (FLOYD)It’s Batman.

INT. LOADING DOCK, WAREHOUSE -- NIGHT

Three thugs masked as dogs operate a lift. They’re moving CRATES OF AMMUNITION. Stenciled on the side: DAGGETT INDUSTRIES.

CLACK! A metal bang... The first thug looks towards the OVERHEAD DOOR. Nothing but...

A FIGURE. It moves swiftly. Before the first thug pulls out his UZI, BATMAN already closes the distance. Twisting the thug’s arm.

The other two slide out from around the corner. Batman slips between them. FLIPPING the first thug onto his back. Batman SWEEP KICKS. The second thug becomes completely AIRBORNE- before hitting the ground, Batman KNOCKS him in the gut.

The third shoots out a quick BURST. But Batman is already ROARING PAST. The thug BACKS AWAY, but it’s too late, Batman palms the gun away, and goes for a RIGHT STRAIGHT. Knocking the thug out.

25.

BEHIND- The first thug swings a knife, Batman blocks with both his arms. Then with a FLICK- Batman grabs the thug’s wrists. Bending his arm OVER HIS BACK.

The thug, facing the floor, is steered by Batman and he’s SWUNG INTO A POLE- DING!

Batman looks once more behind him. Just in time to see DEADSHOT, next to him- A MASKED THUG sporting a semi-automatic rifle.

Batman ROLLS- the bullets deflect off the floor.

Behind a container. Batman FIRES his bat grapple.

DEADSHOT(taunting)

BATMAN! BATMAAAAN!

INT. CEILING, WAREHOUSE -- CONTINUOUS

Batman hides himself through weaving I-beams.

DEADSHOT (V.O.)Maybe another time, another place?

The loading door begin to CLOSE SHUT. Batman catches the scuffling feet of the thugs slipping underneath.

The warehouse door at the front ALSO CLOSES. The resulting SLAM sucks out all the noise. For a moment- SILENCE. Too long to bear...

Batman spots a WINDOW. An ESCAPE.

He SWINGS to the floor. Shoots his grapple ONCE MORE.

INT. TRUCK -- NIGHT

Floyd pulls out a REMOTE EXPLOSIVE DETONATOR.

DEADSHOTSee you soon, Batman.


Batman is soaring through the air. The window is in GRASP. Just mere MOMENTS TO IMPACT-

26.

EXT. WAREHOUSE -- NIGHT

The building EXPLODES- tearing off the ROOF. As the windows SHATTER, A FIERY FIGURE IS BLOWN towards Gotham’s river.

EXT. GOTHAM RIVER -- CONTINUOUS

Batman hits the water. SINKING. The fireball GLOWS ABOVE.

INT. TRUCK -- NIGHT

The warehouse some hundred yards away disappears in a fire cloud. Deadshot looks back anxiously. Silent.

EXT. MARINA -- NIGHT

Batman arises out of the water. He musters enough strength to grab a nearby ladder.

ACROSS THE RIVER is the flaming wreckage. Batman, having swum the distance, finds it hard to breathe. He watches intently in pain, but ALIVE.

INT. CAFETERIA, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- DAY

We see Gordon eating a late lunch, getting paged in a crowded cafeteria. He then walks across the room, tossing his leftovers.

INT. GORDON’S OFFICE -- DAY

Gordon holds a file in hands.

GORDONJoe Rigger: a practitioner of pseudoscience, and known bomb-maker. You’re going to put my detectives out of service if you keep catching their most wanted.

Across the room, a barrel chested man in his 30’s. ADAMS.

ADAMSJust doing my duty, sir.

GORDONDuty. Of course. Son, you ever wonder what happens in the fourth floor of Gotham Central?

27.

He adjusts his glasses as he waits for an answer.

ADAMSMajor Crimes Unit. I understand they’re specially trained.

GORDONAh. A combination of specially trained police officers and civilian staff. Now, I need to build an investigative team. Combining a member from the local offence area with MCU is in my priority.

(direct)Adams, do you wish to lend your expertise on the field with MCU?

Adams muses over the thought. Grins wide.

ADAMSIt’d be my pleasure, sir.

Gordon strides towards him.

GORDONThen one of the first things you should learn about being part of the crew, is that-

They shake hands.

GORDON (CONT’D)You can call me Jim.

EXT. ALLEY -- DAY

Two hulking men knock on an alley door. It opens.

A bunch of gunmen, cradling their weapons, watch the two as they enter. One of which is blind in one eye with a scar on his lip (ANUBIS). The other, equally intimidating with thick furrowed brows (HADES).

EXT. HOUSE -- NIGHT -- FLASHBACK

THE NIGHT SKY. An eerie, high-pitched sound. Droning. Continues through the SCENE- As we see an AMBER GLOW followed by... A HOUSE ON FIRE.

28.

INT. HIDEOUT -- CONTINUOUS

The two men slip on their MASKS. A few short steps down, and they enter a SEMI-BASEMEMENT.

EXT. HOUSE -- NIGHT -- FLASHBACK

THE BURNING HOUSE. Dreamlike. Ghostly Quiet... And exiting the front doors, the figure of MAN.

From a distance, we hear him SCREAM. Sounding louder, and LOUDER until we-

CUT TO:

INT. DEN, HIDEOUT -- DAY

EYES SNAP OPEN.

From behind, Black Mask sits with a single lamp light turned on. Mask off. We notice how he’s missing wisps of hair

BLACK MASK(half turning)

What is it?

ANUBISFeds got to Joe.

Black Mask strokes the top of his head. His hands stay there. Shoulder’s bent, head down, thinking...

Until he SWEEPS EVERYTHING OFF HIS DESK.

INT. INTERROGATION ROOM, MCU, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- DAY

An MCU detective, MAY. She’s pretty, languid, and reserved. Somebody who’d be nice to read you your Bill of Rights.

She’s hovering over JOE RIGGER. With his eyes wide, and a twinkle in the backs of them, he contains an unnerving aura.

RIGGERThey have large weapons.

MAYWhat kind of weapons?

RIGGERMassive weapons.

29.

MAYWMDs.

RIGGERDifferent meaning. Weapons of Mass Disruption.

MAYAs in?-

RIGGERThey wanted a low cost dirty bomb.

He notices her gazing at his wrists, covered in scars. He quickly hides them under his sleeves.

MAYDescribe, they.

Rigger blinks the sweat out of his eyes.

RIGGERThey referred to themselves as... The Society.

INT. OBSERVATION ROOM, MCU, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- CONTINUOUS

MAY (V.O.)(repeating Joe)

The Society.

Gordon silently watches the interrogation unfold with several other detectives. Among them Adams.

Gordon folds his arms. Annoyed.

GORDONThat’s our crew. Adams.

ADAMSYeah?

GORDONRigger’s house. I want you to organize everything you deem relatable to this “Society.” We can’t let them run a show behind our backs.

ADAMSUnderstood.

Adams grabs his coat.

30.

EXT. COTTAGE COUNTRY -- DAY

A lakefront cabin. Picturesque villages and camps sprinkled in its view.

ROLAND DAGGETT, CEO of DAGGETT INDUSTRIES, plays golf, driving the balls across the lake. He STRIKES one. It MISSES a passing jet ski.

Daggett squawks.

A SILVER CAR then pulls up at the side of his cabin. It’s windows tinted black.

Daggett bats a look in its direction. Tosses his club at his caddie, and begins walking to his cabin.

INT. CABIN, COTTAGE COUNTRY -- DAY

Daggett parks himself on his couch and spreads his arms. He mulls over something before he speaks angrily:

DAGGETTBatman? Good God. I thought we had protection? The mafioso type?

From across the room. Simply a man’s voice:

VOICEA criminal understands the facts and knows them to be worthless, Roland.

DAGGETT(smug)

And why’s that?

VOICEPartly because criminals have a vaguely autumnal quality, better suited to October than May.

Daggett grunts as he stands. He serves himself a drink. Looks to the glass, instead he takes a swig from the bottle.

VOICEWhich is to say, Gotham’s gangs fall into an elegant miserablism, much like the dying trees in the fall time. And with each and every passing day, inevitably, the legacy of Batman lives to be stronger.

31.

Daggett rubs his bottom lip. At a loss of words. Or perhaps a loss of understanding.

DAGGETTSo what do we do?

The VOICE has a body, sitting in an armchair. But we only see him holding a CANE adorned with a golden grip.

EXT. GOTHAM -- NIGHT

It is DUSK. Moving over SPIRES of skyscrapers. Perched on a roof, staring WIDE into the city- BATMAN.

VOICE (V.O.)We don’t fight Batman. We fight the man behind Batman.

INT. RIGGER’S APARTMENT -- DAY

The apartment is fritzy, one-star, and old age. Police tape line the entrance from the hall.

Adams swings underneath. May is right behind him.

ADAMSYou smell that?

MAYCordite.

ADAMSThey made the bomb right here.

They pass an investigative officer taking photos.

Adams reaches the living room. And nearly drops his jaw.

A series of MASKS cover the ENTIRE WALL. Animals, Victorian era, and abstract. The ones with mouths appear to silently cackle at all who spare their attention.

INT. FOX’S OFFICE -- DAY

Fox watches Cotello approach his desk.

FOXLay it to me.

32.

COTELLOWe’re down-sizing Steel and Shipping. Massive losses, but they’ll survive. Our largest principal however: Medical, Electronics, Aerospace, and Technologies. They’re getting killed out there. They’ll be kaput.

FOXSo which department is doing well?

COTELLOIndustries. Which has basically turned into research and development. Least amount of employees but they make the most bank, not that I’m complaining.

FOXBut everything else is going down?

COTELLOThrown into a fire. And that’d be an understatement.

INT. LIVING ROOM, WAYNE MANOR -- NIGHT

Bruce throws wood into his fireplace. Closes his eyes. Embraces the warmth. Alfred enters unnoticed.

As Bruce inhales and slowly opens his eyes, we hear the hissing sound of SHIFTING GEARS-

INT. PLATFORM, BAT CAVE -- NIGHT

FLOOR PANELS slide away. An ascending platform reveals-

THE WRAITH. Painted black, and landing gear exposed. Wayne walks towards the undercarriage. He tests the strength of the gears by grabbing hold.

ALFREDNow, explain to me why on God’s green Earth you’re readying that bucket of bolts.

Wayne expresses an uncanny enthusiasm. About to say something-

33.

LATER

A SCREEN- showcasing BILLIONS of dots- A 3D IMAGE of a SKYSCRAPER...

WAYNEDaggett Tower. I get inside and I’ll be able to prove their ties with the criminal underground.

ALFREDDaggett Tower is the tallest building in Gotham.

WAYNEWell, once Wayne Tower installs a couple of antennas that won’t longer be true.

ALFREDBut you’re telling me you’ll fly into this building.

WAYNEIt’s difficult to latch up on there.

(smiles)But not impossible.

EXT. ROOF OF BUILDING, GOTHAM -- LATER THAT NIGHT

Our vantage point is atop a roof looking up at DAGGETT TOWER, which dominates the urban landscape. We move across this roof as Bruce’s voice commands us-

WAYNE (V.O.)The building has shock proof glass, but I’ve installed a high frequency ultrasonic weapon.

And we see it. On a tripod. It emanates a pulsating sound.

INT. 100TH FLOOR, OFFICE ROOM, DAGGETT TOWER -- CONTINUOUS

A peaceful view of a tree-lined downtown street. The window VIBRATES.

WAYNE (V.O.)It will shatter the window of the hundredth floor.

It does.

34.

EXT. ROOF OF BUILDING, GOTHAM -- CONTINUOUS

WAYNE (V.O.)Then I’ll line myself up. And climb...

Batman readies a crossbow launcher and FIRES.

The line projects across the city streets.

INT. 100TH FLOOR, OFFICE ROOM, DAGGETT TOWER -- CONTINUOUS

The anchor reaches inside the room. Before it hits a wall, it BURSTS into a web of multiple hooks. They each snag tight.

EXT. NIGHT SKY -- CONTINUOUS

Batman uses the handle as a grip. He turns upside down, and begins to climb towards the building. It’s towering frame of solid black windows slowly fills Batman’s entire view.

INT. PLATFORM, BAT CAVE -- EARLIER

We’re back before we began: On Alfred. A silly look paints his face.

ALFREDAnd why are you telling me this?

Wayne swivels on his chair.

WAYNEI need you to fly that.

He points to THE WRAITH.

ALFREDThat.

Face tight. Wayne is completely serious.

WAYNEWireless transmission is limited.

ALFREDTransmission to what... from what?

35.

INT. 100TH FLOOR, OFFICE ROOM, DAGGETT TOWER -- NIGHT

Batman LANDS, CROUCHED on the office floor. His cape settles in the stiff air, diffusing with the shadowed floor. He is now an inky blotch, backlit by the glittering night sky.

Slowly and gracefully, he STANDS.

EXT. NIGHT SKY -- CONTINUOUS

Whizzing by at 300 miles per hour, THE WRAITH climbs the night sky. In the distance, DAGGETT TOWER.


Alfred is alone at the panels. The super computer spits out information. He can barely keep up. The voice of Bruce Wayne leads him:

WAYNE (V.O.)Sending data to the Wraith, now. Continue to circle the building.

ALFREDCircle the building...

WAYNE (V.O.)Just pretend it’s a game.

ALFREDOf course. If I hit a building however, it’ll be credited to the taxpayers.

INT. MAIN OFFICES, DAGGETT TOWER -- CONTINUOUS

ALFRED (V.O.)(CONT’D)Which includes me.

Batman waves a PORTABLE SCANNER, its blue light scans a paper document. He scans a second.

Batman peers around the room. It’s wide, and filled with cubicles.

ALFRED (V.O.)Oh and sir? Don’t forget to put on your Batman voice.

Batman gives a smirking hiss.

36.

INT. BAT CAVE -- LATER

Alfred looks to one screen. A needle thin LOADING BAR indicates it’s working.

ALFREDYep. Got it.

(to himself)Or at least I think so.

INT. MAIN OFFICES, DAGGETT TOWER -- NIGHT

Batman finishes lockpicking a door, opens it wide into the hall.

He sniffs the air.

BATMAN(whispering)

Alfred. There’s smoke.

INT. MODERN OFFICE HALL, DAGGETT TOWER -- MOMENTS LATER

The floor takes up two stories. SMOKE clearly builds on the upper half.

Batman strides through the hall, looks to a SMOKE DETECTOR. It’s dead.

A double door. Batman presses himself against it- listen’s carefully... FEELS the handle.

BATMANThere’s a fire. Alfred-

THE DOOR EXPLODES.

Batman is thrown across the tile floor. Nothing to stop him but a METAL COLUMN. SMASHING his shoulder.

He’s on fire! The flames catch onto his cape.

INT. BAT CAVE -- SAME

Listening in, a sickening feeling takes hold of Alfred.

EXT. NIGHT SKY -- SAME

The Wraith banks to a side, carving its silhouette in the clouds.

37.

INT. MODERN OFFICE HALL, DAGGETT TOWER -- SAME

The carpet begins to catch FLAMES. It runs across the whole floor, burning TABLES and PAPERS. Electronics can be heard CRACKLING in the distance.

From his utility belt, a scorched and smoking Batman takes out a compact inhaler. He bites into it and BREATHES.

He darts around looking for an escape until-

EXT. DAGGETT TOWER -- CONTINUOUS

A FIERY BLAST blows out all the windows on the 100th floor.

INT. MAIN OFFICES, DAGGETT TOWER -- CONTINUOUS

A door is KICKED down, Batman DIVES inside. He looks back into the hall just in time to see A MASSIVE BACKDRAFT. HUGE FLAMES lick the ceiling.

Batman sucks on his inhaler as he presses through the heat.

INT. ELEVATOR -- CONTINUOUS

A Janitor, with a mop bucket in tow, whistles a tune. A low RUMBLE shakes the elevator car. The Janitor stops whistling, unsure if he felt what he thought he felt...

PING! The doors slide open letting in a thicket of BLACK SMOKE.

INT. MODERN OFFICE HALL -- CONTINUOUS

SUDDEN SILENCE. A floor to ceiling WINDOW divides this cheerless hallway with the fierce INFERNO on the other side.

We see Batman on the inferno side. From his utility belt, he whips an explosive pellet against it. It BLOWS it wide open.


The janitor, blinking, tries to see through the smoke. His coughing is harsh and thrashes his throat. Now wheezing he tries to press the LOBBY button.

38.

INT. MODERN OFFICE HALL, DAGGETT TOWER -- CONTINUOUS

A WALL EXPLODES. Batman strides through, turns a corner and he sees the OPEN ELEVATOR. Its doors jarringly open and close- but never shut.

INT. ELEVATOR SHAFT, DAGGETT TOWER -- CONTINUOUS

Out of the smoke emerges the BATMAN. The janitor backs into the corner, turns white.

JANITORMy God!

The janitor coughs once more, opens his eyes to see that BATMAN IS GONE.

INT. ELEVATOR SHAFT -- CONTINUOUS

The top elevator panel BURSTS OPEN. Batman climbs out- looks into the shaft- wide enough for three elevator cars.

ALFRED (V.O.)Your signal is getting weak. Where are you?

BATMANElevators.

He looks into the elevator car. Notes the doors still not shutting correctly.

BATMANInfrared sensors. The smoke is making the doors out-of-operation.

ALFRED (V.O.)Okay. What do you have in mind?


The Janitor, sweating bullets, presses tight into the corner.

Batman jumps down in front of him.

BATMANYou’re coming with me.

39.

INT. ELEVATOR SHAFT -- CONTINUOUS

Batman pulls the man up as hard as he can. They steady themselves.

The janitor half laughs, his voice breaking:

JANITORNow what? You can’t tell me to jump.

BATMANBut you will.

And with that- Batman clips a cable on the janitor, then a CLAMP on a cable. Batman grabs him, and HURLS HIMSELF into the shaft.

They both drop so far they disappear from sight.

INT. MAIN LOBBY -- NIGHT

Elevator doors. A sound of impact... reverberating. The doors open an INCH. Batman pries his fingers through, and SLIDES the doors across. He ushers the Janitor to go through first.

Climbing out, the janitor gulps in air as if it were fresh water. As he erects himself to a cross-legged position, he notices Batman standing, a little out of breath.

JANITORYou must be a millionaire.

Batman does not reply, and the janitor sees he’s speechless.

JANITORYou gotta be. I mean, they don’t pay me enough to do half the things you do.

Outside. POLICE SIRENS.

JANITORAt least I can sleep at night knowing whatever money I make is honest.

He chuckles to himself.

JANITOR (CONT’D)News tells us to be afraid of you, but you’re not so bad.

40.

Firefighters knock on the front door. Before responding the janitor looks at Batman-

But he’s gone.

INT. LIBRARY, WAYNE MANOR -- MORNING

Sunlight cuts across the curtains. Wayne is patrolling the pool table with Alfred listening. Seated, and with tea in hand.

WAYNEIt wasn’t a slow burning fire. It must have been detonation.

ALFREDA trap. As one might say.

WAYNE(nodding)

They burned down their accounting department and they locked off the elevators.

He slams the book he is reading.

ALFREDCan you stop being Batman in the afternoon, sir? You can’t be two places at once.

Wayne faces him. Shrugs, “what?”

ALFRED(re: book in Wayne’s hand)

“Electrical Properties of Diamonds and the Future of Telemetry.” Your latest bathroom reader. Bruce Wayne bought that. Not Batman.

WAYNEI’m only myself Alfred, and I multitask.

ALFREDI certainly understand that. But I’m suggesting for Batman to remain out of sight.

WAYNEAnd do what?

41.

ALFREDLet Master Bruce do a bit of investigating on his own. Unless you want to suddenly invest in blast-proofing yourself. We know all too well, you’ve come across enough explosions.

WAYNEI think I’ll take your offer on the blast proofing...

ALFRED(rolling eyes)

Better than nothing. As long as I don’t double my hours being your nanny.

INT. COTELLO’S OFFICE -- MORNING

On the television: A news reporter is at the scene at Daggett Tower.

REPORTERNow we do have confirmed reports that Batman was at the scene of the crime. But whether he caused the blaze remains to be seen.

The TV is shut off.

Cotello, at her desk.

COTELLOIf only it burned to the ground.

Across from her are two lawyer types.

COTELLOSo.

LAWYERThe Daggett lawsuit.

COTELLOWhat made it the financial disaster it was?

LAWYERThere were logistical difficulties.

COTELLOSuch as?

42.

LAWYER(looking at notes)

The anesthetic project dates back a couple of years and some of the witnesses no longer work for Wayne Enterprises. They’re being flown from various parts of the world.

COTELLOI thought we asked for an injunction?

She rubs her temples.

LAWYERYes.

COTELLOSo why are we bringing in witnesses? For what?

LAWYERDaggett’s counterclaim.

Cotello sighs.

COTELLOWe should have settled.

The lawyers remain silent.

COTELLOAlright. So what do we do about me?

INT. FOX’S OFFICE, WAYNE ENTERPRISES -- DAY

Fox packs up. He stares at a framed photograph. It’s of him with THOMAS WAYNE. Both young, and their handsome smiles light up the room.

As Fox begins to leave he sees Cotello having a hearty talk with the lawyers. They shake hands and nod agreeably at an inaudible conversation.

DEFENSE ATTORNEY (V.O.)To simplify there’s ‘Product A,’ that the patent claims, and now you have Daggett Industries inadvertently creating Product A while trying to create Product B.

Fox is still at the door, a glazed, vacant look on his face.

43.


Closing statements. From the defense:

DEFENSE ATTORNEY (CONT’D) Infringement would occur when Daggett Industries’ product combined with the oxygen in the lungs of a patient creates small amounts of the patented product. Yet there is no evidence that Daggett Industries intends, or is working to achieve this result. There is no mention of a hemihydrate, the chemical reaction, in the patent or in the article.

INT. LOBBY, COURTHOUSE -- CONTINUOUS

Fox enters the historic building, he’s surrounded by a gaggle of reporters and lawyers. Opposite of him, ROLAND DAGGETT who’s soaking in every minute.

DEFENSE ATTORNEY (V.O.) (CONT’D)It was unknown either when the patent application was filed or three years ago when the patent was granted. Therefore, I find that Wayne Enterprises has failed to prove by a preponderance of the evidence that Daggett Industries’ product will infringe on the claim.

Roland flashes a teeth bearing grin.

Fox looks away when he realizes that he’s staring.


Lawmen guard the door into the courtroom. Everyone else is seated. Roland sits quietly. Listen’s intently.

DEFENSE ATTORNEY (CONT’D)Wayne Enterprises may not interpret its claim narrowly to avoid invalidity and broadly to prove infringement. Because infringement cannot be proved if the infringing component of a mixture is below the limits of detection.

44.

Fox and his lawyers shake their heads. Fox is especially troubled.

INT. GORDON’S OFFICE -- MORNING

Gordon, busy scribing notes. May walks in.

She dumps three videotapes on his desk.

GORDONWhat’s this?

MAYVideotapes.

GORDONClearly. Of what?

MAYOf Batman breaking into Daggett Tower.

INT. COURTROOM, SUPERIOR COURT -- LATER

The judge speaks to both parties.

JUDGEI am troubled not by the novelty of the argument but by the lack of evidence to support it. With that, I declare the trial portion of this extended case adjourned.

He HAMMERS his gavel.

EXT. LOBBY, COURTHOUSE -- DAY

A bustling group of REPORTERS.

Roland Daggett walks out wanting the world to see him. He speaks into the microphones without answering a specific question:

DAGGETTWayne Enterprises manufactured this licensing dispute as part of a calculated strategy to eliminate Daggett Industries as a competitive threat. I’m content with our counterclaim, and I’m sure it will be successful.

45.

He reaches his car and gets inside, followed by a resounding racket of questions.

INT. LUXURY SEDAN - DAY

Parked out of view from the reporters. Lucius Fox enters the back of his car. He’s startled by the presence of BRUCE WAYNE.

FOXGlad to know you’re mildly interested.

WAYNEI know there’s a gut wrenching uncertainty with the future of our company, but I hope you sleep well knowing Daggett Industries is alo an intergang front.

Fox simply sighs. Not wanting to be part of the conversation.

FOXTaking them down is not going to keep Wayne Enterprises afloat.

WAYNEThat is what you presume.

FOXNo. It’s clear. As bright as day.

WAYNEThey’re smuggling drugs and weapons into the city. And they blow up warehouses too.

Wayne tosses the day’s paper between them. Fox doesn’t even look.

FOXAnd we’ve been suffering over-production and under-performance for the last couple of years. This trial is the nail in the coffin.

WAYNEForget the trial. We take down Daggett and the trial is history.

Fox unbuttons his collar. Irritated now. His eye contact as piercing as ever.

46.

FOXYou don’t know anything about the figures do you?

WAYNEI know enough.

FOXBillions. Lost.

Wayne bristles, hangs his head.

FOX (CONT’D)At the rate we’re going, we could keep losing ten billion every quarter for the next three years. And then we’d have to sell off assets just to stay in business. That doesn’t concern you Wayne? It’s not just, “the company.” People’s jobs-

WAYNEI get it.

FOX(beat)

If you excuse me, this is my car and my driver.

WAYNEAnother private business meeting?

FOXNo.

Wayne doesn’t buy it. Raises a brow.

FOXI’m requesting a contingency.

WAYNEBailout? I thought we wanted to avoid federal interventions.

FOXYou wanted to. You never want help. But I do and I’m getting it.

Wayne is quiet. His moment of thinking interrupted by-

FOX (pointing)

The door.

47.

Wayne gives a weary smile and exits.

Fox knocks on the plastic wall separating him and the driver. The car begins to stroll through the city.

Just as Fox sits back. He looks at the paper Bruce left behind. The headline reads:

“CHEMICAL WAREHOUSE AMONG PORT ADAMS BLAST”

Fox stares out into the city streets, wipes his eyes, it’s been a long day.

EXT. RUINED THEATER -- EVENING

Sheets of rain pour down on Gotham.

From behind, we see a man standing under a stone arch. He swings his cane around while humming, “Singin’ in the Rain.”

He then peeks at his watch. Turns to go inside.

INT. LOBBY, RUINED THEATER -- CONTINUOUS

A shirtless man is tied to a chair and his head is encased in a burlap sack. Two burly thugs stretch their fingers. Their knuckles, red and tenderized.

From out of the darkness- The man with the cane walks in. Squarely plants himself between the two thugs. We still don’t see his face.

MAN WITH CANEMake it quick, I have places to be...

From his voice we are able to tell he’s the VOICE that spoke to Daggett.

THUGHe’s unconscious. Didn’t tell nothing.

The man shakes his head. Turns to leave.

THUGWhat do we do boss? Want us to get rid of him?

MAN WITH CANEWait until he wakes up and try again.

48.

THUGIf it doesn’t work?

The man turns back, facing us. He has the skin and body of a man who has spent a lifetime avoiding the direct rays of the sun. His cold stare suggests his intellect outmatches physicality. He is EDWARD NASHTON.

NASHTONThen incinerate him. Like the rest.

INT. MAYOR’S OFFICE -- EVENING

The blinds SNAP CLOSE.

GORDONSorry I kept you, but three homicides in a single night is nothing short of making me worry. I have a hunch that says it’s political considering they were in the running for mayor.

MAYORI’m in the running for mayor...

The Mayor takes a seat at his desk. Pulls the cuff links off his suit. Gordon waits a moment before speaking again.

GORDONFront page of tomorrow’s news will blow this out of proportion.

MAYORHopefully not. I understand your dedication for locking up this new-aged mob, but I think it’s better if we don’t scare the city by giving a face to these criminals. Not just yet.

GORDONYou have something in mind?

MAYORBelongings are piling on the sidewalk. Homeowners have no place to go and sleep in their car. This is not the city I want.

The mayor stands, loosens his tie. Gordon listen’s patiently.

49.

MAYORI have to speak about budget directions. Remind them that we’re remodelling certain buildings, overhauling streets, and providing updated homes.

GORDONIf you don’t make it public, we can screen everyone that enters City Hall...

Gordon mulls it over. Finally nods.

GORDON (CONT’D)It’s doable.

MAYORGood. That’s good. Now find the bastard that’s behind this fiasco.

EXT. COURTYARD, HOTEL -- EVENING

A sign reads: “GOTHAM AUCTION CHARITY BALL.”

Tablefuls of flowers line the courtyard. A COSTUMED COUPLE enter the adjacent building.

INT. CONFERANCE HALL A, HOTEL -- EVENING

The 10,000 square foot ballroom is bathed in seductive nightclub lighting.

A SWARM of guests, also in costume. A crowd huddles together, and are revealed to be looking at Nashton, who wears a Venetian CARNIVAL MASK.

NASHTON(to group)

And what do you call a party where the only one who knows anything stay silent?

The guests wide eyed with anticipation murmur to themselves. Nashton patiently awaits for an answer. Off the distance, something sparks his interest.

He leans in smiling, ending the conversation as quickly as possible:

50.

NASHTONIt’s a charade! Where only the silent are wise. Now, I hope you all have a lovely and profitable time. Excuse me.

AT THE BAR, Bruce Wayne, elbows on the counter, slowly drinks a glass full of water. A white face mask is placed on the back of his head.

Lucius is at his side. He’s not in costume at all, but dressed merely in “smart casual.”

LUCIUSYour suit’s already fire proof.

WAYNESee, the coal mine I’ve visited... I’m thinking more blast proof.

NASHTON (V.O.)Bruce Wayne and Lucius Fox.

Wayne turns.

NASHTONIt’s an honor to meet the biggest names amongst the current corporate cognoscente.

WAYNESorry? Have we met?

NASHTONAs of currently. Eddie Nashton. I’m head of security at my firm.

(shakes hand)An honor, Prince of Gotham. I hope this is not unwarranted, I am just a simple admirer.

WAYNESorry. Of what exactly?

NASHTONWell, one of the key aspects of Wayne Enterprises is the modernization of America. That alone is worth celebrating.

Wayne nods. Speechlessly flattered.

51.

FOX(recognizing Nashton)

Edward Nashton, is it? Who did you say you worked for again?

Nashton assumes a quick smile. Resisting to answer.

NASHTONAh. That would be Daggett Industries.

Wayne looks to Fox. He looks back, dumbfounded.

FOXDaggett Industries. I don’t think we have many friends there.

NASHTONI understand. I’m not here to discuss the lawsuit. Though, it’s never wrong to exercise standard legal protection. Even if you lose out, it’s the principal. I’m curious-

Fox closes his blazer. Dismissive.

FOXI’m sorry, but we were in the middle of a conversation and were just moving to the auction in-

NASHTONThe auction for charity. Quite right. One could say the poor are among the greediest. At least corporations conduct their greed through mostly legal and equitable trade.

WAYNEI’m sorry, are you suggesting something? The Wayne Foundation donates millions to charitable causes.

NASHTON(commandeering, smiling)

Mr. Wayne.

52.

(MORE)

If you were an oil or car company one could say, “do we really care about the makers of air pollution and global warming?” For any company communists could say, “do we really care about these enemies of the people?”

Wayne, annoyed now, about to answer-

NASHTONThe way I understand is that your company was conceived to serve as an infrastructure.

A drunken masked scholar pulls at Nashton’s arm.

MASKED SCHOLAREddie! Got a gentleman with prospective business. Pull out your riddles.

The masked scholar slips a $100 bill in Nashton’s breast pocket.

MASKED MAN(knowing glance)

Please him and I can finally seal that deal.

Nashton takes a step back. Finishes his thought with Bruce:

NASHTONEverything your family worked for must not fail Mr. Wayne. I hope you at the very least understand that.

Nashton exhales, as if having finished a memorized recital. He bows in respect, and finally walks away, assimilating into a crowd of people.

Bruce straightens up. Doesn’t know what hit him.

FOXHe’s right about one thing.

(beat)We’re too important to fail.

WAYNEAnd who’s he to say?

Fox laughs under his breath.

53.

NASHTON (CONT'D)

FOXMore books have been written about Nashton as a colourful eighteenth century showman than Nashton, “the financier,” or Nashton, “the economist.”

WAYNEThat doesn’t tell me anything.

FOXHe’s like you: talks a lot. Spends a lot more.

Wayne sighs as he shakes his head.

WAYNEI am a bit disappointed that only, at least, about nine tenths of your replies directly concern my philandering.

FOXLet me try to be a bit civil then. The two of you are jerks who happen to be popular.

Wayne lights up. Swigs his drink.

FOX (CONT’D)People see Bruce Wayne as the local headliner making waves at the parties... Absolutely nothing to do with the company.

WAYNECome on.

Fox gives him a pointed finger.

FOXLet me finish. You’re being irresponsible.

WAYNEI am thinking about the company.

FOXBuying out petty industries in other continents is not-

WAYNEThey provide good wages for poor families.

54.

(MORE)

I thought you had it under control with your contingency.

FOXThat’s next week. And we’ll see.

WAYNEThen we’ll see.

Bitter. Wayne turns back to the bar.

Fox drills holes at the back of his head. He considers having the last word, but he diverts his attention, and walks away.

INT. CONFERANCE HALL B, HOTEL -- EVENING

19th century French paintings are unloaded onto the stage. Most of the hundred-odd spectators are seated on folding chairs in the center of the room.

Wayne has assumed a much lighter air and sits alone in the far back. He’s not paying attention to the auction.

He pokes his finger into his drinking glass. Fumbles out an ice cube. He sucks on it before dropping it back in his glass.

NASHTON (V.O.)I hope we didn’t get off at the wrong foot, Mr. Wayne.

Wayne turns to see Nashton taking a seat behind him.

WAYNE(under a smile)

Oh no, not at all.

NASHTONLook at that smile of yours. It tells a very interesting story.

WAYNEAnd what story might that be?

Nashton speaks rapidly, as he mostly does:

NASHTONI'll tell you what I think, based on my observations. I think you enjoy mixing it up with enthusiasts.

55.

WAYNE (CONT'D)

(MORE)

You’re theatrical, and you don’t gel with the old and boring millionaire, billionaire, extraordinaires.

WAYNEYou think so?

Nashton nods, raises his glass.

NASHTONThat’s why I want to interest you in this event I’m having. It’ll be on a great, big boat doing rounds around Gotham river. Lots of money is thrown around. Every year it’s the same.

(pause)Mingle. Let us help you get back on top. The investors this time are cosmic.

WAYNEOh, I can’t possibly...

NASHTONListen, when I hear about such a resolutely reknowned man such as yourself pulling in the crunch, quite seriously, I gasp and hold my head by the hair.

Nashton hands him a card- an invitation to a boat party.

WAYNEI’m not sure. How about I sit on it and I let you know?

NASHTONI look forward to it. And that’s some serious recommendation. Take it from me, it’s all business.

Wayne remains silent. Watches Nashton giggle in his glass.

INT. GORDON’S OFFICE -- DAY

Gordon, sunk low in his chair. Rubbing his brow.

GORDONI don’t know when you’ll be coming back home sweety. How’s your brother? That’s good.

56.

NASHTON (CONT'D)

(MORE)

Now give the phone to mum. Okay. If your mother won’t come to the phone now... tell her I will keep trying. Til she does. Okay, bye doll.

He hangs up.

The videotapes are still on his desk. He slides them over. Slowly and steadily. They teeter over the edge and fall into his trash can.

He takes out a lighter from a desk drawer. He lights a paper, and watches it burn. Through the glow in his eyes, we can almost see a deep rooted sense of UNCERTAINTY.

He tosses the burning paper in his trash can.

EXT. ALLEY, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- DAY

Gordon throws the remains of his trash can in a dumpster. He waits a moment and tosses out old receipts and lint from his pockets.

ADAMSGordon.

Gordon turns sharply at Adams.

ADAMSNora Fields wants to see you.

GORDONI’m on my way.

Gordon ambles past. He doesn’t turn the corner and awaits Adams, who’s now staring at the dumpster.

GORDONYou coming?

Adams hesitates, but can’t resist. Gordon blankets his arm around Adams shoulder. And they walk off.

INT. MORGUE, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- DAY

Two forensic physicians examine the body of an elderly man. One of them approaches Gordon who’s standing in the background with May.

NORA FIELDS, her eyes are expressive as she speaks through the surgeon mask.

57.

GORDON (CONT'D)

FIELDSHe drowned in his own swimming pool. But there’s a paralyzing agent in his blood.

GORDONA hit?

FIELDSEither through injection or consumed.

Gordon scratches his head, on edge.

MAYWhat are you thinking, city wide protection? The mayor will need a walking army.

GORDONI’m afraid so.

INT. SUB-BASEMENT, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- CONTINUOUS

Gordon exits the morgue. Adams is perched against the wall. Gordon signals him to walk with him as he reaches for the stairwell.

GORDONDon’t be afraid to come inside next time. They’re just... cadavers.

ADAMSI’d rather go inside my shirt and hide.

They both share a smile. Adams pauses, changes subject:

ADAMSSo what’s the deal?

GORDONThings are... in motion. Whether we have them under control is what we’re going to find out in a couple of days.

INT. SECURITY ROOM, DAGGETT TOWER -- DAY

Camera footage being FAST FORWARDED. It STOPS at an image of a shadowy figure... The Batman.

58.

Nashton hovers over a TECHIE.

NASHTONAt minimum, five feet and eleven inches.

TECHIECaucasian male. But I think everyone knew that already.

He fumbles with the knobs, continues to fast forward.

NASHTONTell me. Would you say he’s military?

TECHIEI dunno. To be honest I think he’s more like a ninja.

INT. 100TH FLOOR, OFFICE ROOM, DAGGETT TOWER -- SUNSET

Nashton surveys a group of security men rummaging through every nook.

SECURITYThere’s nothing, boss. He was never here.

SECURITY 2I thought we let the police handle this.

NASHTONNo no no. Batman obviously works closely with the police. But his brand of justice isn’t perfect.Therefore his crimes aren’t either.

EXT. BARBERSHOP -- NIGHT

THE TURK, who’s seen better days, is seated in a barber’s chair. A BODYGUARD stays seated. Just as the barber places a bib on the Turk, the front door JINGLES.

The barber leans into Turk’s ear. Whispers:

BARBERIt’s Black Mask.

Turk snaps his eyes open.

59.

The suited skeleton gives an interpretive dance to the Turkish muzak playing on the radio. He gets closer to the Turk who doesn’t move- has not moved.

TURKWhat do you want?

Black Mask gestures rubbing bills together- the money sign.

BLACK MASKFacts over rumors.

TURKOf what?

BLACK MASKOf you and the Chechen’s legacy.

The Turk chuckles. He takes off his bib and throws it on the floor.

TURKWhat of it?

BLACK MASKSee, I quite liked your mainstay as right hand man to The Chechen. Now this is what I hear: you’re getting organized in a time of disorder. Organizing men, money, and mistakes. And this I cannot allow.

TURKMaybe not everyone likes to wear a silly mask.

BLACK MASKYou’re not mafia anymore. You’re small time now. And I’m the one with the pockets full of change...

TURKNow you’re disrespecting me. In my turf no less.

BLACK MASKYour turf? It was hardly granted to you, you skiving rat.

The Turk snaps his fingers. His bodyguard jumps up, POINTS a handgun.

60.

The door JINGLES again. This time it’s Deadshot wielding DUAL PISTOLS. Black Mask slowly backs away. Lifts a finger. As you do to a child.

BLACK MASK (CONT’D)There’s no shame in trying to fight the good fight. See you in another life.

(bowing)I bid adieu.

The Turk stands and pulls out his own handgun.

TURKI’ve had it up to here with you freaks!

He SHOOTS the floor between Black Mask’s feet. Pushing him back a couple of meters.

TURKWe’ve had generations of families! And you think you can take over this city? Now leave or die-

He shoots again- but not before Deadshot FIRES FIRST.

CLANG! TWO FUSED BULLETS hit the floor rolling. It stops right between the Turks legs. He’s speechless.

Black Mask doles out a horrid cackle.

BLACK MASKI know I can leave, I have left before, and I will leave again. Try to stop me.

Swinging the door open, he steps outside just before we can hear his last word, “JACKASS!”

The Turk wipes the sweat off his face. Turns to his bodyguard.

TURKShut the door.

EXT. BARBERSHOP -- CONTINUOUS

The bodyguard reaches to close the door, when a gun is JAMMED under his throat. It’s a masked thug, SIGNALS for the bodyguard to go back inside.

61.

The bodyguard notices a whole group of them exiting cars and emerging from around corners. They each carry ASSAULT RIFLES.

ACROSS THE STREET, Deadshot and Black Mask watch.

DEADSHOTPolitics is a bloody sport, and the more blood, the better the sport.

Black Mask covers his ears as the front of the barbershop is SHREDDED by a squall of bullets.

INT. ENGINE FLOOR, DILAPIDATED FACTORY -- EVENING

A thug carts a soccer ball-sized SILVER SPHERE. He peels off the radiation hazard sticker. Gets inside a WHITE VAN.

Black Mask oversees his operation from a mezzanine above. Watches Deadshot weapon train a set of goons.

DEADSHOTDon't hit shells with hammers kiddies. I took a pigeon shot shell and put it on a vise- no powder but the primer was still on it and heated it up with a torch and boom, got a cigarette like hole in my leg. Don't be like me.

Black Mask waves at Deadshot to come to him.

INT. DILAPIDATED FACTORY -- LATER

A quieter room. Deadshot takes off his mask and examines a bottle of whiskey.

DEADSHOTUnderstand, I don’t usually mix jobs. But since the money’s good...

BLACK MASKOn more than one occasion I’ve seen him break character. Or take his promises just a tad too far revealing the trickster inside. The source of my money, and my woes.

DEADSHOTI’ll stick to my one and only plan.

He sticks out his pointing finger... Bang.

62.

EXT. MOVING OVER WASHINGTON DC -- EARLY MORNING

Low lying office buildings, foreign embassies, and federal buildings crisscross in all directions as far as the eye can see.

INT. MEETING ROOM, WASHINGTON DC -- LATER

The blinds are shut. The room is quiet. Lucius Fox sits with a woman in her forties, SARAH. The two speak at the end of a very large table.

FOXLook here, pension plans are failing-

SARAHAll I see is an economic abyss.

FOXIf you let Wayne Enterprises go down, you’re letting the whole eastern economy down with it.

He tries to pull out a myriad of papers.

SARAHWhat I see, Mr. Fox, are the dealings of one obscure executive who has reached a complete indictment of the regulatory system. Remove him first, and then we’ll see what we can do.

Fox hangs his head and loses eye contact. Closes his binder. And quietly:

FOXIs that right...

SARAHUnless you want the country to denounce bailouts for billionaires. That’s a hole I don’t want us to dig.

INT. BAT CAVE -- DAY

A computer monitor showcases Edward Nashton’s PROFILE. Complete with passport photo and driver’s license.

Wayne stands as he uses a gyroscopic mouse. Stops at a page of legal documents.

63.

WAYNE(reading)

Ex-detective for the International Criminal Police Organization.

ALFREDThat doesn’t seem so bad.

WAYNEIt also says he was on parole for a while. He’s now considered a reformed master thief?

ALFREDI guess having a criminal record can still get you a job.

Wayne turns to a rack, puts on a coat.

WAYNEHe’s my guy. He builds shell companies, and where does the money go?

ALFREDI’m sure you already know.

WAYNEI still have to follow it. Pin it on him.

He throws down Nashton’s INVITATION.

EXT. GOTHAM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT -- DAY

The roar of an approaching aircraft.

INT. OFFICE, WAYNE TOWER -- DAY

Fox’s secretary is on the phone.

SECRETARYYes, sir. I can confirm Cotello has left the company.

INT. BAGGAGE CLAIM, GOTHAM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT -- DAY

Lucius Fox pulls his luggage from the conveyor belt with one hand. His other hand presses his phone to his ear.

64.

FOXShe’s gone? Did she sell?

SECRETARY (V.O.)All of her shares.

FOXWhat does it amount to...?

INT. OFFICE, WAYNE TOWER -- CONTINUOUS

SECRETARYToo much to tell.

She glances at a decorated wall. There are framed photographs of the executive board. She tries to hide her apprehension as she locks her eyes on the photo of JANICE COTELLO.

INT. BAGGAGE CLAIM, GOTHAM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT -- CONT.

Fox closes his eyes.

FOXThis is... unprecedented. I need time alone- make phone calls...

SECRETARY (V.O.)Yes, Mr. Fox.

INT. COACH STATION, GOTHAM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT -- DAY

Lucius appears in the doorway, exiting the airport. He carries a briefcase and stuffs his phone in his jacket.

Behind him, in the distance, a group of men stay in a BLACK TRUCK. As they watch Lucius step into line for the bus, they seem remarkably agitated.

INT. COACH BUS -- CONTINUOUS

Lucius steps in, walks across the aisle, and sits alone. He’s visibly distraught. As if he’s been slapped in the face.

So he closes his eyes and tries to sleep it off.

INT. MESS HALL, CITY HALL -- DAY

The Mayor recites a line from his speech as an assistant straightens his tie.

65.

MAYOR(to himself)

Build clean, effective... effective, efficient, and responsive. No, accountable local government.

He becomes distracted. Gordon is peaking out the blinds.

MAYORIt’ll be fine Gordon.

GORDONI’ll be the judge.

The Mayor starts for the door.

GORDONSir...

MAYORYeah?

A long gaze. Gordon’s lips are suddenly dry.

GORDONNothing.

EXT. WATERFRONT -- DAY

An idling SUPERYACHT, where we hear the rabbit punch of a violin beat.

INT/EXT. LUXURIOUS SUPERYACHT -- CONTINUOUS

The party is in full swing with lots of drinking. Though most of the party goers are male, pretty, single women crowd them. Wayne chats with a collection of people.

Nashton watches from across the bar. A cute barmaid towel dries a glass. She watches Nashton, intrigued by his silence.

BARMAIDYou don’t have to be afraid, you know?

NASHTONWhat’s that?

66.

BARMAIDBruce Wayne may not always be a gentleman, but he’s easy to talk to with nature’s nectar.

She tips a bottle and pours a shot of tequila.

NASHTONFlattering. But I need a clear mind, it’s in my job description.

BARMAIDSo what do you do?

NASHTONI read people and can tell you if they’re trying to swindle me out of a tip.

The barmaid scoffs.

BARMAIDIt is what it is, honey.

NASHTONOh, I wouldn’t know that it was what it was, I might even think it was what it wasn’t. Thanks for clarifying with your precious pearls of wisdom.

He snatches the shot, gulps it down and SMASHES the glass, so the shards hit her.

He pulls out a hundred dollar bill and throws it her way.

INT. GOTHAM WATER DISTRICT TUNNEL -- CONTINUOUS

The tires of a truck roll very quietly along the narrow tunnel. It approaches the rear of the COACH BUS.

INT. LUXURIOUS SUPERYACHT -- CONTINUOUS

The live band finishes the song and the crowd screams in delight. They begin to play a different song, melancholy-

A TABLE: a gentleman is surrounded by women.

GENTLEMANI just don’t see how our current mayor appeals to the people.

67.

Wayne listens from across the table. When he’s suddenly STARTLED by Nashton, who places a hand on his shoulder.

NASHTONPolitics? My favorite.

GENTLEMANWhat do you think Eddie? The mayor.

NASHTONHe appeals to the “taxpayers.” In other words, people who don’t see their relation with the city beyond the taxes they pay.

GENTLEMANSounds like you’re not voting for him either.

Nashton lifts his hand off Wayne. Takes a seat himself, grinning wide:

NASHTONTo be honest, I don’t vote.

GENTLEMANBut it’s democratic.

Nashton giggles.

NASHTONI don’t think so. And here’s why-

INT. TOP OF THE CLOCKTOWER -- CONTINUOUS

An incredible 360-degree view of GOTHAM CITY. DEADSHOT places two backpacks on the tile floor. He unzips them.

Without tools he begins to slap and slide together the BARREL, the BOLT, the MAGAZINE, and finally the SCOPE.

The massive 6-FOOT LONG RIFLE almost eats away at his space.

NASHTON (V.O.)The question is not whether democracy will come to an end, but how democracy will come to an end.

Bipod out, he places one knee on a lower ledge, resting the rifle on a concrete sill.

Now he waits.

68.


NASHTONIn the future, the ability to genetically engineer humans into new species and the advent of strong artificial intelligence will enable inequalities so extreme that the human boundaries within which democracy has been a viable political form will be exploded.

Wayne has kept an ethereal calm, raps his fingers on the table.

WAYNEThat’s an unexpected world view on progress.

NASHTONYes. These new forms of “progress” will render human equality obsolete.

WAYNEAnd so?

NASHTONTherefore the democratic era is coming to an end because the Homo Sapien era is coming to an end.

Wayne shakes his head.

WAYNEI think it’s frightening you see the world that way.

NASHTONI make it sound scary. But it is how it must be. The urbane must lead the people. Do you not see the future, Mr. Wayne? It’s corporate.


A lane of barriers, cones and flashing lights soon meets with a construction zone within a utility tunnel. It connects a view with the opposite traffic.

A SILVER SEDAN makes for a screaming turn in front of the bus. BLOCKING its path. At that very moment, A BULLDOZER crushes the drivers side of the bus. The WINDSHIELD SHATTERS.

69.


Lucius snaps awake. He knits his brow at the MASS HYSTERIA.


WAYNEThat’s ridiculous, you can’t truly believe what you’re saying.

NASHTONWe’re living in an oligarchy Mr. Wayne. But instead of crowns for our royalty, it’s luxury cars and giant mansions.

The gentleman leans in, not wanting to feel left out.

GENTLEMANI’d half agree, but I’d say I’m living proof of rags to riches.

Him and his Las Vegas women giggle in unison.

NASHTONThe notion of the survival of the fittest, hmm. It conflicts with principle that everyone has the right to survive. It implies acceptance that the unfit will not be granted the right to survive, while human rights tends toward the progressive abolition of natural selection. So where do we find ourselves...?

This wipes the gentleman’s smile away.

Wayne stares at Nashton. Every fiber in his body disagreeing with him...

EXT. CLOCKTOWER -- CONTINUOUS

A MELODY RINGS OUT. The chime of the tower. PIGEONS ESCAPE from hidden lodgings.

NASHTON (V.O.)A constant battle with society.

70.

EXT. CITY HALL -- CONTINUOUS

At the foot of the building. The clock tower is barely audible. But we see the Clock Tower, ANGLED just right between two other buildings...


A man masked as a WOLF climbs through the anterior of the bus. He quickly scans everyone, singles out Lucius. Who’s mouth parts open. The beginning of a cry for help.

Wolf hits Lucius squarely on the jaw. Lucius falls to the ground, everything spinning. Next thing he knows he’s being DRAGGED across the aisle.


NASHTONI believe in a corporate future. Though I just recently worked with a man that’s contrapositive to that idea. He believes that our society will self destruct.

Nashton isn’t proud of himself. He looks up, notes that everyone has fallen silent.

NASHTONBut of course. That’s just his opinion.


With all his weight and strength Lucius THRASHES out. But Wolf is soon accompanied by GHOUL, they both snag Lucius from his feet.

INT. TOP OF THE CLOCKTOWER -- CONTINUOUS

Deadshot takes aim... FIRES.

The recoil is HUGE. The sound even BIGGER.

INT. HALLWAY, CITY HALL -- CONTINUOUS

We move into EXTREME SLOW MOTION as the bullet cuts through a WINDOW- tiny hair-thin cracks SPREAD, racing in all directions.

71.

DEEPER in the building- The round melts into a wall. PULVERIZING everything in its path.

Finally, the ballistic cap PEELS AGAINST CONCRETE, like a flower pedal. The dust- ALL CONSUMING.

INT. PRESS ROOM, CITY HALL -- CONTINUOUS

KA-BOOM! A plume of particulate matter FLATTENS GORDON. Gordon cocks his head up. But we don’t see what he sees, we only hear the rising crescendo of...


SCREAMING TIRES. The kidnappers take off in their sedan. Leaving the bashed bus in its wake...

EXT. DOCKS -- SUNSET

The wealthy step off of the luxurious boat. A line of limos await them.

Alfred props open the limo door, Wayne doesn’t enter. Instead he walks to Nashton who’s hailing a taxi.

It pulls over as Nashton steps from the curb.

WAYNEThat thing back there.

NASHTONYeah...? Sorry wait, what thing?

WAYNEI’m hard pressed to say people like you... are morally corrupt.

Nashton gets the taxi door open, turns to Wayne.

NASHTONThe city was built by your parents. But that’s the thing. The thing you wouldn’t know. That you’d never think to check.

WAYNEWhat’s that?

NASHTONThat your parents were just as corrupt as everybody else.

72.

Wayne gives a hard stare. Nashton gets in the cab.

WAYNEYou’re full of shit.

NASHTONAm I?

He closes the door, and the taxi takes off.

INT. WAYNE’S CAR -- NIGHT

Bruce narrows his eyes, and deepens his breath.

Alfred looks at him through the rear view mirror. Doesn’t say a word.

INT. WAYNE MANOR -- NIGHT

The front door swings open, and Wayne casually slips off his gloves. He walks in a straight line, deaf to a PHONE RINGING in the distance.

Alfred soon enters and immediately takes note of the ringing. He walks off

Bruce is still unmindful of his surroundings. As he continues to move forward, he slows. Looking up he sees a massive portrait PAINTING of his PARENTS.

INT. KITCHEN, WAYNE MANOR -- CONTINUOUS

Alfred is holding the receiver to his ear. The news on the other end leaves him in a stunned silence.

Softly, and with hesitation:

ALFREDI’ll tell him right away.

INT. WAYNE MANOR -- NIGHT

Bruce looks down, the painting bringing back too many memories. He hears Alfred’s footsteps.

WAYNE(without turning)

I cannot attack a man whose beliefs I disagree with.

73.

Alfred straightens himself. Listens carefully.

WAYNEBut today I met a man who wears a different kind of mask.

Bruce faces Alfred.

WAYNECommon sense tells me to bring him down. But who am I to judge, Alfred? His form of evil is through the mind of mouth. Batman does not limit. Does not censor.

ALFREDWhat does Batman do, sir?

Bruce narrows his eyes. And with resolve:

WAYNEHe brings truth.

INT. PARKING LOT, DILAPIDATED FACTORY -- NIGHT

A BLACK TRUCK cuts across the dirt road.

Hades waits under a streetlight. Black Mask, in front, rubs his hands together.

BLACK MASK(to Hades)

As you should know, civilian kidnapping is an American invention.

The truck pulls up. All the men inside wear SKI MASKS, and one by one they step onto the gravel.

Black Mask opens his arms. There’s a knowing glance between him and the driver... But the driver simply shakes his head.

SKI MASKED DRIVERSomeone else got to him first.

INT. A CAR -- NIGHT

Two men in front, shouldering assault rifles. Three in the back. The one in the center wears a burlap sack over his head. From the suit he’s wearing we can almost tell it’s:

ALFRED (V.O.)...Lucius Fox, sir.

74.

INT. WAYNE MANOR -- CONTINUOUS

Wayne tightens his jaw. His neck muscles contracting and bulging.

ALFREDAnd there’s no word on who has him.

INT. LIBRARY, WAYNE MANOR -- NIGHT

Hurrying out of the hall, Wayne opens a Baroque era celestial GLOBE. He presses a button and then over by a bookshelf, he pulls onto a little red book.

The sound of SHIFTING GEARS, as two bookshelves SPLIT OPEN.

INT. BAT CAVE -- NIGHT

The super computer whizzes to life. The screens glow from sleep mode, revealing all current activity in Gotham.

One screen focuses on Gotham’s News: “TERROR IN GOTHAM.”

INT. REC ROOM, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- NIGHT

A crowd watches the television.

INT. GORDON’S OFFICE -- CONTINUOUS

And now we see Adams with May and two other officers, sitting around a workstation used as an improvised eating area.

ADAMSWhere the hell is he?

MAYHe’s around. Thinking.

ADAMSThe only thought on my mind is to catch this sniper.

He watches the officers outside the sound-proof office. He sees their lips moving, shaking their heads.

ADAMSHe’s wasting time.

75.

EXT. ROOF, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- NIGHT

It’s a windy night. Gordon pulls his coat tighter around his neck. He holds a folder of files in his other hand.

GORDONThe whole department is in a frenzy.

Batman, perched on the edge of the roof. His cape, whipping in the wind.

BATMANWhy the mayor?

GORDONTo take away order. Paving way for new order.

BATMANAnd yet there’s no more news on the bomb?

GORDONI’ve had confirmation. It exists. The Department of Energy have sent nuclear scientists, trying to detect anything radiological.

BATMANBut nothing.

GORDONNothing. But check this out.

He gives Batman the folder.

GORDONFifteen kilograms of weapons grade plutonium were lost at a Pakistani factory.

BATMANLost.

GORDONOr stolen.

BATMANThey brought it over?

76.

GORDONMany territories over the former Soviet Union don’t even require a visa. Just walk across the border, or get in a plane and go. If you are there, it’s easy enough to go to Iran and then through Pakistan.

BATMANThis took them months.

Gordon laughs under his breath. Nods.

GORDONAnd we’re only seeing it now.

BATMANAnd what about Wayne Enterprises?

GORDONFox?

Batman doesn’t respond.

GORDONWell, Fox’s case... is an anomaly to me. We don’t know who wanted him or why. We’ve reason to believe it’s somewhat connected to the Mayor. But...

He shrugs.

BATMANThey’ll ask for a ransom.

GORDONHow do you know?

BATMANThey haven’t killed him yet.

EXT. ATM VESTIBULE -- NIGHT

The entrance of a bank, locked and barren. A single man slips his card into the ATM. He looks at the parabolic mirror- A FIGURE STANDS BEHIND HIM.

Before he can react- DEADSHOT wraps a WIRE around the man’s neck.

77.

INT. CAR -- NIGHT

Deadshot gets in the back seat. Anubis, at the wheel, leans back and hands him a phone.

ANUBISIt’s the boss.

Deadshot takes it, just as Anubis puts the car to drive.

DEADSHOTJust finished the urban planner. City’s going to be locked, just as you wanted.

We hear a muffled voice. Surprisingly... not of Black Mask.

DEADSHOTI see. Getting there now.

He hangs up. He then takes off his mask. His hair sticks to his forehead, slick with sweat.

ANUBISThe Society requires you to wear the mask at all times, sir.

DEADSHOTI’ll wear it if I’m on the job. Just get to the theater.

EXT. STREET -- NIGHT

Two police cruisers pull up on the street. Gordon steps out of the car and looks up to the 30 story apartment.

INT. RIGGER’S APARTMENT -- NIGHT

A blue ultraviolet light fills the room. It points to a wall, revealing a myriad of splotches and smears.

BATMANBased on the spreading of the blood, they abuse victims here while they questioned them.

The light reveals footprints.

BATMANLook at the gait and stance depth, at least three men go to work. All very large.

78.

Gordon pays attention while May pulls out a note pad, trying to keep up.

MAYWe went through the whole apartment. We didn’t think to look for blood.

BATMANNot your fault. Look how it’s deteriorated. They even painted over the walls, perhaps constantly.

GORDONBut who does it belong to? Multiple victims?

The blue light turns off.

BATMANCan’t be sure. If you pay close attention to the masks-

He points to the indicated wall, then pulls a mask off. Gordon interrupts:

GORDONThe materials used range from copper, terracotta, textiles, and latex.

BATMANI’ve also found traces of synthetic heroin.

GORDONJoe did show symptoms. He had a staggering gait, and constant sense of confusion and euphoria. He was a user, not a dealer.

MAYHe was quite senseless during the interrogation.

BATMANThey paid him in drugs to make the masks. And only one person sells this specific kind.

GORDON(to May)

Get to Jervis. I want you to squeeze anything more out of him.

79.

EXT. ROOF, SHANTY HOUSE -- NIGHT

Dozens of cooing birds. Massive cages box a corner on the roof. Its interior wall is covered in a smoothly worked cement made from mud and cardboard.

A set of stocky hands envelopes a dove. The hands belong to YARDIE. He is weathered, grizzled. Eyes cunning and mean.

A tiny trap door opens, a hooded grunt pokes his head.

HOODIEWe got a client.

INT. FOYER, SHANTY HOUSE -- NIGHT

A single fluorescent light floats above the foyer. Trash bag curtains line up the walls and doorways. Yardie parts open a curtain with one hand. He sees an undernourished blond man, quivering.

YARDIE(Nigerian accent)

What do you need?

CLIENTWhatever stops the shakes, my friend.

Yardie sniffs the air. Something putrid.

CLIENTSorry if I smell like piss, man. Haven’t changed my pants in a week.

Yardie looks over to Hoodie. He sends a hearty laugh.

YARDIENo matter. Repeat customers are always welcome.

INT. LIVING ROOM, SHANTY HOUSE -- NIGHT

Yardie leads the client to the back of the room. A couch faces a TV playing a black and white movie.

CLIENTHey, man. I always wondered where that accent is from?

80.

YARDIEAccent? What accent? I have an English accent.

CLIENTOh... I didn’t-

YARDIEYou want to talk about sports? We talk about sports. The Weather, maybe. Do not ask questions about who I am, yeah?

CLIENTI’m just the same old customer, man. I do no harm.

Yardie gets in close, he sneers. Showcasing his metal teeth.

YARDIEI got my teeth cut out and replaced them with titanium coated Teflon.

The client gulps.

YARDIE (CONT’D)The reason they were cut is cause I asked too many damn questions.

The familiar coo of a bird. Yardie looks back, and sees a single WHITE DOVE come flying into the room. Then without warning- A BATARANG is sent FLYING through the curtains.

It takes down Hoodie. Before he falls a SHADOW moves behind him, snapping plastic WRIST TIES. It’s BATMAN.

Yardie is stunned at the sight. Then, without thinking, he DASHES for the revolver on a counter top. But a SNARE TRAP TRIPS HIM.

Batman strikes a look at the client.

BATMANGet out.

The client makes a run for it.

EXT. STREETS -- NIGHT

Dark, slimy streets seen through the glass of a POLICE LIGHT. The siren whines audibly, the light FLASHES, casting a pool of color on the street...

81.

Through which an escort of POLICE CRUISERS hurtle down.

INT. LIVING ROOM, SHANTY HOUSE -- NIGHT

Batman finishes rolling up his wire. Yardie looks to his HANDS- tied. His ANKLES- wrapped in wire.

BATMANYou paid Joe in drugs.

YARDIERight, what is with you people! Can’t I get some peace!?

BATMANTell that to the cavalry.

A sudden wail of police SIRENS. Getting closer.

YARDIEYou can’t touch me. I’m so rough, I buy hotdogs and start cold whippin’ them at police cars. Police know I eat taser electricity.

Batman kneels. Gets closer.

BATMANYour choice. They arrest you here, now, or you come with me...

He clips his wire to his utility belt.

BATMAN (CONT’D)Where I’ll leave you to the mob.

Yardie chuckles.

YARDIEThe mob don’t exist anymore! With my business I pay for children to go to school, give money to those in need. When the government does nothing, I step up and lookit, the East end is free of small-time crime. You take me away, there will be a ruckus with the people.

BATMANYou want to test that theory?

82.

YARDIEIt’s been why I’ve been untouchable.

BATMANUntil now.

Batman pulls him up.

EXT. STREET NEAR SHANTY HOUSE -- NIGHT

A crowd of people is being pushed back behind the police blockade. A POLICE VAN stops at a corner. A SWAT team pulls out with DOGS.

Adams gets out the drivers side of a police car, gun pointed down.

EXT. ALLEY, SHANTY HOUSE -- CONTINUOUS

A SWAT team moves through, waving hand signals at each other. One moves to a door, towing a BATTERING RAM.

INT. BACK ROOM, SHANTY HOUSE -- CONTINUOUS

KER-RACK. The door SWINGS OPEN. The SWATS SWOOP in- aiming their guns, showing proper trigger discipline.

Then they STOP. Confused, they face a pile of workers on their knees and tied. Right next to ROWS OF TABLES with raw narcotics.

EXT. ROOF, SHANTY HOUSE -- CONTINUOUS

A SWAT troop move in. They find Yardie locked in his bird cage. Sweaty, eyes wide with fear, doesn’t dare move.

EXT. STREET NEAR SHANTY HOUSE -- CONINTUOUS

Adams works the radio on the dash, one foot outside the car.

RADIOWe got him.

ADAMSOkay, call it in-

PLOP! A yellow sludge hits his windshield. Adams snaps up, takes a closer look. It’s leftover... food?

83.

CIVILIAN (V.O.)You’re done protecting, go protect yourselves!

He looks up, dodges a second chunk. This time with the plate, SHATTERING on the pavement. Stepping away, he spots dozens of heads peering down from their apartment windows.

CIVILIAN (V.O.)Get off our street!

Soon, ALL OF THEM start lobbing rotten fruit and vegetables. Overwhelmed, Adams gets back in his car. He switches to reverse and STEPS ON IT.

His windshield CRACKS under a heavy bucket, until finally he’s out of the line of fire. He looks back. Rattled. Hears the citizens carry on their SHOUTING.

INT. LOWER LEVEL, ARKHAM ASYLUM -- NIGHT

BZZT! A buzzer accompanies a gate sliding open, letting May walk through. She looks over a bulletin board. Reading through a list of names.

Her finger stops on one: Joe Rigger.

INT. CORRIDOR, ARKHAM ASYLUM -- LATER

May leads two security officers. They finally reach a cell. One officer fumbles through a keychain and unlocks it.

INT. CELL, ARKHAM ASYLUM -- CONTINUOUS

May steps inside. It’s small, and with padded walls.

MAYJoe.

She sees him lying on his bed, surrounded by books. The one he’s currently reading is Catch-22.

RIGGERHello, May.

He licks his finger and turns a page.

MAYI have more questions. It’s in your benefit to answer them.

84.

RIGGERHm.

MAYLet’s start with your place. Tell me more on the masks.

RIGGERIn a way, the masks I build calm the mind.

May doesn’t say a word, plays it cool. Readies herself to jot down his next words.

RIGGER (CONT’D)I also find that... Anonymity is power.

EXT. LONDON STOCK EXCHANGE -- MORNING

Attache cases float into view. Hundreds of suits walk about the avenue like sardines.

One STOCKY MAN is in high gear, running across.

INT. LOBBY, LONDON STOCK EXCHANGE -- CONTINUOUS

The elevator stops at the floor, discards only one person. The doors close a little slowly- Until the stocky man makes it through.

He looks to his watch nervously.

INT. LONDON STOCK EXCHANGE -- CONTINUOUS

A STOCK BROKER is yawning as he half-listens to his customer, resting the phone on his kneecaps.

BROKERMarket opens in thirty seconds. You can smell the hunger.

The stocky man stops at the broker’s desk.

STOCKY MANWayne Enterprises. It’s going down!

The broker looks up at the TICKER... stock quotes whizzing by. One catches his eye.

85.

BROKERYeah, I see it.

The numbers begin to drop- FAST. Followed by a small panic in the room. The broker looks at his watch, hanging up the phone.

BROKERIt’s 9:30AM, London time. Gotham’s still night.

STOCKY MANBloody hell, someone’s got to tell them!

ON THE TICKER, a dizzying blur of numbers. The roar of the clicker drowns the traders frantically screaming to sell. The sound of a runaway FREIGHT TRAIN-

EXT. HOUSE ON A HILL, LONDON -- LATER

BANG! An agent hammers on a SIGN, digging it deep. It sits loosely on the grass, and it reads: “LENDER FORECLOSURE. PUBLIC HOME AUCTION.”

JENNIFER (V.O.)People in Gotham are angry. And they should be. Some 10,000 jobs were lost at Wayne Enterprises today.


Dozens of news feeds play simultaneously.

JENNIFER (V.O.)Very few of the ranked and filed people would ever dream of Wayne Enterprises going in the red.

The Batman cowl is perched under a soft glow. We see it is in a chamber. The lights turn off and the chamber DESCENDS into the platform floor.

Alfred walks in with a trolley full of medical supplies. Catches Wayne in front of the computer.

ALFREDInjured, Master Wayne?

Wayne turns off the news feeds.

86.

WAYNENot at all. It was a short night. I think the police can handle themselves for the rest of the evening.

Alfred begins to leave-

WAYNEI need you here for a moment.

Alfred turns, making sure nothing falls off his trolley.

WAYNEI just arranged a one way flight to the Republic of Zaire.

ALFREDA trip to Africa?

Wayne beams with a devilish smile.

EXT. GOTHAM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT -- LATE NIGHT

A powerful GULFSTREAM JET is readied. It disconnects from the ramp, and drives forward to the runway.

INT. GULFSTREAM JET -- LATE NIGHT

Alfred sits all tired-eyed. He watches Bruce march his way out of the pilot’s deck. He also notes Bruce holding a very fake smile.

ALFREDYou could botch all the seats in a regular flight and it’d still be cheaper than this.

WAYNESpeed is everything. We’ll be back in Gotham in... 23 hours. ‘Sides...

Bruce sits down, an automatic coffee table unfolds in front of him. He’s slightly impressed.

WAYNEI couldn’t possibly force everyone out of a flight. I have a soft spot, you know.

ALFREDI’ve seen it. Don’t like it.

87.

Alfred closes his eyes to sleep. Nothing but the gentle rolling noise of the aircraft.

EXT. CITY HALL -- DAY

We see a VIOLENT CROWD holding picket signs. They hatefully shout at city hall. Only a thin line of police prevents them from BREAKING in.

INT. MEETING ROOM, CITY HALL -- DAY

A group of officials are assembled. Some standing, some sitting. The air is still. The crowd noise thumping in everyone’s head.

A skittering younger man, surrounded by supervisors, hesitates to speak:

ACTING MAYORHow many jobs lost at Wayne Enterprises? Their London division being completely wiped this morning-

A seated Gordon speaks up.

GORDONDon’t tell me this wasn’t seen miles ahead of time.

ACTING MAYORBlame it on their poor business practices.

GORDONI blame it on poor exercise from City Hall. We had a good foundation, and now you’re all running with your tails tucked.

ACTING MAYORDo you need to be reminded you’re talking to the Mayor?

GORDONActing Mayor. You’re not the mayor.

Gordon rises from his chair, looks at the others.

GORDONHe’s no mayor.

There is a frozen silence as Gordon leaves the room.

88.

INT. HALLWAY, CITY HALL -- CONTINUOUS

Gordon paces back and forth. Wrestles with himself, refusing to re-enter the meeting room.

In the hall is a line of police, busy checking the corridors. Adams walks forward, reading his pager.

ADAMSJust got word Bruce Wayne left Gotham.

GORDONWhat do we care?

Gordon looks serious and distracted in spite of all the noise outside.

ADAMSQuestioning. He’s of interest.

Gordon sighs. He eyes the window overlooking the crowd suspiciously. He doesn’t know what to do...

INT. GULFSTREAM JET - EARLY EVENING

PING! The seat belt lights turn on. Alfred awakes.

There is a sparkle of a sun setting outside.

WAYNEWe’re landing.

Alfred peeks out the window, the ground is rushing closer. There is a pained look on his face. Not enough sleep. But then he lights up:

ALFREDLooks lovely. Will there be time for myself?

WAYNEDon’t think so.

ALFREDYou know, I don’t think you ever told me what you’re business here was.

Bruce slits his eyes. And with a sudden assurance:

WAYNEI’m saving Wayne Enterprises.

89.

EXT. JUNGLE ROAD, ZAIRE -- EARLY EVENING

A JEEP sloshes its way through an undeveloped road. It seemingly tries to catch up to the fleeting sunset.

It cuts across a huge puddle, splashing mud ALL OVER the windshield.

EXT. MINING VILLAGE, ZAIRE -- EVENING

A timber mining camp near a streambed. Map survey parties stand in the ankle deep water.

The jeep careens around a bend, and gradually stops in front of a TENT. Where a lamp glows within...

INT. TENT, MINING VILLAGE, ZAIRE -- CONTINUOUS

Entering the tent is the driver, HENRICK. He’s tall and muscular. His fearsome stature is diminished by a giant, warm smile.

HENRICKBruce Wayne!

Wayne is caught by surprise. He is squeezed by a powerful hug.

WAYNEHenrick, thank you for keeping the fort.

HENRICKAnything for you my friend.

Henrick offers Wayne a seat.

INT. SAME -- MOMENTS LATER

Henrick places a black attache case over a wooden table. He clicks it open. Inside are three roughly shaped BLUE DIAMONDS.

HENRICKType IIb diamonds.

WAYNEChecked resistivity?

HENRICKLike you asked. They’re perfect.

90.

Henrick slides the case to Wayne for inspection.

EXT. MINING VILLAGE, ZAIRE -- EVENING

The sun now hides behind the top of the rainforest.

A HELICOPTER touches down on a flatbed of rocks. Wayne and Alfred approach, with Alfred holding the attache case. He shouts over the roar of the engine-

ALFREDCan’t really be used for gemstones now, can it?

WAYNEIt’s a little more valuable than that!

They fasten themselves. Wayne waves Henrick to come closer.

WAYNE(to Henrick)

We have to move the expedition more upstream. Closer to the volcanic region.

HENRICKWhere there is fire, there is diamonds. I have it covered!

Wayne then mouths the words, “thank you.” Henrick ducks his head as the helicopter TAKES OFF.

INT. GORDON’S APARTMENT -- NIGHT

A tiny single bedroom apartment.

Exhausted from the drive back, Gordon takes off his coat, and collapses onto the bed, closing his eyes. The PHONE RINGS. With a start he wakes and answers it.

GORDONYeah?

He sits up. Looks at a framed photo of his FAMILY.

GORDONAnother kidnapping? Who is it?

91.

INT. DAGGETT’S OFFICE -- NIGHT

A burlap sack is pulled off a man- ROLAND DAGGETT. Sweaty, and wearing plain clothes, he’s tied to a rolling chair.

He looks around the dimly-lit room. He’s surrounded by blurry figures. Too stunned to move, he mutters:

DAGGETTWhere am I? What...

Black Mask steps forward. He pulls out a cigar from his breast pocket, sniffs its luxury.

BLACK MASKWe’re in your office.

DAGGETTAlright, just what the hell do you want?

BLACK MASKI want Nashton.

Black Mask kicks the chair so Roland smacks against the floor-to-ceiling window. He flicks the cigar to Roland’s lap.

DAGGETTI don’t know where he is!

Black Mask rubs his jowls, slowly paces forward, stands very close to Roland.

BLACK MASKYears ago, there was an illegal discharge of chemicals at a refinery. If you recall, there was a small investigation following an explosion in a neighborhood located downstream. The sewer system, as it was... showed 100 percent explosivity.

DAGGETTI have a recollection of it.

Daggett shivers, finding suddenly that he is cold.

INSERT CUT: A house on fire. The figure at the door...

DAGGETTThe houses on Chestwood Park. All those families...

92.

Black Mask rests his foot between Roland’s legs, rocking the chair back and forth.

BLACK MASKI tried to talk to the company. Showed this.

Black Mask holds out a golden NECKLACE.

BLACK MASKYou said you didn’t have time. Ignored it. You didn’t know I found it in a grave. Where my child was burned alive.

Daggett nervously laughs.

BLACK MASKThere were no survivors. But I don’t know if you noticed doc...

He takes off his MASK.

Roland catches sight, and we see for the first time, a SWOLLEN FACE with an indicating past of SKIN GRAFTING. Small veins are blackened, interfering normal circulation, signs of BLOOD POISONING.

BLACK MASKI’m not exactly living.

Daggett can’t stare for too long. He looks away.

EXT. GOTHAM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT -- NIGHT

Wayne steps out of the jet, and walks across the tarmac towards a black LIMO.

BLACK MASK (V.O.)You’re purposely ignorant to Nashton and his dealings. So I know it’s not your fault.

EXT. MIDTOWN TUNNEL -- NIGHT

Wayne’s limo emerges from the tunnel and onto an expressway.

An unmarked police car picks them up, darting through lanes, staying several car lengths behind.

93.

BLACK MASK (V.O.)I want to see a thousand fragments of revenge finally fall into place. Like acid rain on wildfire.

INT. DAGGETT’S OFFICE -- NIGHT

BLACK MASKYou don’t know my name. That’s because I don’t have one. I was going to save you for last, but allow me to reconsider. Just as long as you tell me where I can find Nashton so I can rip out his tongue...

Daggett shows reluctance. Eyes a weapon under Black Mask’s blazer.

DAGGETTHe’s... he’s at the Hillrise Street hideout.

Black Mask puts on his mask. AIMS his gun at Daggett.

DAGGETTSo you were going to kill me...

He gulps hard. Tears glinting in his eyes.

BLACK MASKIf it’s comforting; death... is the equalizer of all men.

He cocks his guns. SHOOTS at the window, shattering it.

BLACK MASKRegardless of any factors, every human being still has that one thing in common: we all die.

With a sudden violence Black Mask KICKS Daggett through the window.

EXT. MORGUE, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- NIGHT

Nora slips on a stainless steel glove.

A victim lies on a wall mounted autopsy table. Through the man’s scar that runs over his brow, we can tell it used to be the man behind ANUBIS.

94.

Nora gets closer, exhales. Pries open the MOUTH- inside- a crumpled SHEET OF PAPER.

INT. DEN, HIDEOUT -- SUNSET

Nashton checks the valve on a HOT WATER TANK. It’s old and mineralized. He cocks his head up, hears the rolling tires of an approaching car.

EXT. HIDEOUT -- SUNSET

A van pulls up. The masked driver get outs, sprints around the car. Opens the rear door. Black Mask exits the van, starts for the building.

INT. DEN, HIDEOUT -- CONTINUOUS

The door is KICKED WIDE OPEN. Black Mask draws his gun on Nashton.

Nashton is poised over a table, examining construction equipment set in disarray. He doesn’t respond for a second. Instead drops a NAIL GUN on the table.

NASHTONDoes this have to do with buying your men? I do admit to that. That is to say, my money was never truly questioned. I simplistically showed them where their loyalties fall.

BLACK MASKI don’t need your support anymore.

Black Mask slowly gets closer. Nashton frowns.

NASHTONSo. I take it Roland is dead?

BLACK MASKHe’s been taken care of. My interest, on the other hand, have not.

He gently rests his gun at the edge of the table, still pointing at Nashton.

NASHTONAh, you want the fox in the box. The loveless, luckless, Lucius.

95.

BLACK MASKIf I don’t satisfy my blood lust with corporate America with the likes of Lucius. I fear that I’ll have to take it out on you.

NASHTONWhat could I have possibly done to offend you so?

BLACK MASKI found out that you allocated market shares and fixed prices. You even sabotaged productions from the competition. I know because it was my passion and my obsession.

Nashton begins to sweat. Suppresses a smile.

NASHTONThing is, there’s inherent obstacles in that undertaking, you know. What can you promise if I make do with Fox’s location?

Black Mask. Unflinching. A hint of bitterness in his voice:

BLACK MASKFirst your legs. Then your hands.

Working quickly around the table, Nashton makes sure Black Mask is at a safe distance.

NASHTONListen, reasonable people may disagree in their opinions, but they do not disagree with the laws of thermodynamics-

BLACK MASKThere’s nothing scientific about your schemes!

Nashton begins to talk with his hands almost out of necessity.

NASHTONNo listen, when a substance transforms from one stable state with certain properties to another state with different properties, that is called phase transition.

96.

Nashton gives a hard look. Motions an explosion with his hands.

NASHTONLike boiling water into steam-

The water tank ROCKETS UPWARDS. It startles Black Mask who spins, smashing directly into a flood of HOT WATER.

Black Mask yells in pain. Nashton lurches over the table, GRABS THE NAIL GUN. He shoots a burst, driving NAILS into Black Mask’s face who then ROLLS LIMPLY to the floor.

Nashton traces his steps, looks at the body. Unmoving. He then moves out the room, grinning.

INT. OFFICE, SUB-BASEMENT, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- NIGHT

A SEALED EVIDENCE BAG held against a light.

FIELDSCeramic fiber paper. Resists almost anything. They wanted us to find it.

May is observing the evidence near Nora’s desk.

MAYMurder?

FIELDSThat’s been every case for the past week and half.

(re: evidence bag)Something’s written on it; read it out for yourself.

May turns over the evidence bag. She begins her first breath to read. And we-

CUT TO:


Wayne’s EYES OPEN as he wakes in his chair. A live scanning of Nora’s evidence is taking place on one of his monitors.

The letters are VIVID, and we are able to make out:

Can the Batman find me? I’m not in a forest, But there’s leaves abound,

97.

You find them in branches, No barking aloud.

Wayne slits his eyes.

INT. OFFICE, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- NIGHT

May swings open the door and places a printed copy of the letter on Adams desk.

MAYYou see this riddle thing?

Adams studies it. Shakes his head.

MAYWant to take a crack at it?

INT. LOBBY, RUINED THEATER -- NIGHT

A lone chair lies in the middle of the lobby. Next to it, lying on the floor is a mask we’ve seen before... ANUBIS.

A trio of masked goons stand before Nashton. He steps up to HADES. Smiles inscrutably, brushing the lint off Hades shoulder.

NASHTONBack in the day. At a high human cost, billions of dollars and ten years later, the sewers were considered an incredible feat in engineering.

Nashton turns away and picks up the Anubis mask.

NASHTONAs the Society has learned, there is no reward if there is no risk.

INT. ENGINE FLOOR, DILAPIDATED FACTORY -- CONTINUOUS

Dozens of masked goons ready themselves. Slapping on tactical gear. One goon uses a crowbar to crack open a CRATE. Inside... A neat stack of ASSAULT RIFLES.

INT. LOBBY, RUINED THEATER -- CONTINUOUS

Nashton pokes his finger through the eye of the Anubis mask.

98.

NASHTONBlack Mask certainly dressed the part. He’s the total antithesis of a clean shaven John Wayne-type with a pressed shirt and a white hat.


Armed Society members proceed swiftly into DOZENS of trucks...

NASHTON (V.O.)But now, he’s out of the picture.

INT. DEN, HIDEOUT -- CONTINUOUS

BLACK MASK SNAPS UP.

He lifts one hand upwards, slowly reaching his face. He touches his cheek. Digs out something- begins to PULL.

He extracts a 2-inch NAIL, looking at it oddly...

His senses begin to come back. And so does the pain...

HE SCREAMS BLOODY MURDER.


The Wraith FIRES out of the cave, through the waterfall, and RACES across the surface.

INT/EXT. A COMPUTER SCREEN -- CONTINUOUS

NIGHT VISION. A soaring view of Gotham City- CAMERA snaps to an overhead image, revealing an immense height.

The screen WIPES to a secondary view. This time in THERMAL.

INT. MAINTENANCE ROOM -- NIGHT

White walls devoid of mouldings. It’s an expanse of first stage construction.

On the ground, a large HOLE tunnels into the earth. A BIRD MASKED goon climbs out, holding two duffel bags.

99.

MONSTERDidja forget your wig, pantyhose and lipstick?

Bird looks up to find Monster looking down at him.

MONSTER(sticking out his hand)

Don’t want you blocking up our escape.

INT. MAINTENANCE ROOM -- LATER

Monster helps Bird carry the bags. They exit the room, go up a flight of stairs, and march into-

INT. GOTHAM LIBRARY -- CONTINUOUS

The library is five storeys high with a spiralling rotunda shooting upwards to the top of the building. It is a derelict CONSTRUCTION ZONE, with scaffolding lining the walls and entire bookshelves covered in polyester sheets.

Main floor, several Society members sort through a collection of weapons. Across from them, DEADSHOT holds a handheld rope ascender and begins to SCALE THE WALL.

INT. FORUM, MCU, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- NIGHT

MCU staff sit around a long conferance table. At the head sits May. Walking around is a LIEUTENANT SOKOLOWER, passing an analyst who runs his fingers through his hair in frustration.

SOKOLOWERAll right, what do we have?

People murmur amongst themselves, brainstorming. May stares at a printed copy of the riddle. She slowly raises her hand.

MAYOne of the definition of leaf is a sheet of paper... bound in a book.

Everyone in the room turns to this.


Wayne watches the Wraith’s console. Behind him, Alfred, squinting at the riddle on-screen.

100.

WAYNEBranches means academic discipline.

ALFREDAnd no barking aloud?

WAYNEI see a double meaning. You’re only allowed to be silent.

Alfred is almost stunned at his reasoning.

ALFREDIt’s a library...

INT. SAME -- LATER

A series of chambers glow to life. Inside the last chamber, we spot the components of a NEW BAT-SUIT.

INT/EXT. COMPUTER SCREEN -- LATER

Infrared view on Gotham Library with DOZENS of heat signatures.

EXT. ROOF, GOTHAM LIBRARY -- NIGHT

Deadshot has readied a weapon system mounted on a swiveling base.

Deadshot scopes the city streets with binoculars. Off at a distance he witnesses SEVERAL PEOPLE kicking in the door to a corner JEWELLERY STORE.

Suddenly, the cackling of a radio:

GOON (V.O.)Black Mask was right.

INT. 3RD FLOOR, GOTHAM LIBRARY -- CONTINUOUS

A masked goon looks at the window, watches the violence outside. He talks into the radio.

GOONKill a few leadership types, and the city crumbles.

101.

INT. FORUM, MCU, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- NIGHT

The analysts and detectives stand up collectively slipping on their coats.

The lieutenant stares at his copy of the riddle. We push into the words: Can the Batman find me?

He crumples the paper.

INT. LIEUTENANT’S OFFICE -- LATER

The lieutenant is at his desk. Dials a number.

Suddenly, his door opens- revealing GORDON, dressed for the outdoors.

SOKOLOWERI was trying to get a hold of you. Park your hat and grab a chair.

Gordon stays standing.

GORDONI just got your message, Lieutenant.

SOKOLOWERI thought you could help me the most.

Gordon wipes the sleep out of his eyes. Ready for duty:

GORDONWhat do we know about Gotham Library?

SOKOLOWEREast end. Under major renovation, but it’s under a building deadlock. Construction resumes next year making the perfect hideout.

GORDONUnits?

SOKOLOWERAlready on field.

GORDONAnd do we know if it’s the Society?

102.

SOKOLOWERNo. Worst of it is, if it’s... that cult, and they made up their minds to be found by Batman, and subsequently, us...

GORDONIf they’re talking, we’re getting closer.

SOKOLOWERYeah. But it means they’re planning something. You know, a lot of people behind the Society are wondering if we can take it if we’re attacked.

GORDON(agreed)

They think they have the answers.

SOKOLOWERWell, you and I and everyone have to come up with a few answers of our own.

EXT. ROOF, GOTHAM LIBRARY -- NIGHT

SOKOLOWER (V.O.)Question is... do we have the guts?

Deadshot wanders the roof. He pauses... Listens to the night.

Closes his eyes in intense concentration.

ABOVE HIM-

The Batman, coiled into a ball, FALLING from a higher position.

Deadshot wheels around, swiping out a gun. A batarang CUTS his hand, making him lose grip. He rolls to DODGE, but another batarang snags his coat to the FLOOR. Then, a HOOKED WIRE begins to wrap around his sleeve.

Without thinking, he pulls out his arm before it goes TAUT. His coat is YANKED OFF. Unraveling himself, Deadshot STANDS and quickly turns to face- BATMAN GRABBING HIM by the collar. But Deadshot is running backwards gripping Batman’s arm.

They CRASH into the SKYLIGHT. PLUMMETING INTO-

103.

INT. 5TH FLOOR, GOTHAM LIBRARY -- CONTINUOUS

A DESK. It flattens to the floor. Grappling each other they ROLL, Batman finds himself underneath. Deadshot sends a folly of punches. Batman latches a TETHER on Deadshot.

A pause. Deadshot looks-

As he’s PULLED TO THE CEILING- Batman clearly sees THREE PRIMARY WEAPONS holstered to Deadshot.

Deadshot whips out a semi automatic SHOTGUN. He shoots at Batman- HITS HIM THREE TIMES before losing him in the bookshelves.

INT. MAIN FLOOR, GOTHAM LIBRARY -- CONTINUOUS

The goons spin and look to the sound of GUNFIRE.


Deadshot shoots off the tether’s hook- sending him FALLING.

He lands on his knees and one hand. He then gingerly tugs on a grenade. Pulls the pin and THROWS it over a bookshelf.

BOOM! The shelves begin to COLLAPSE, one by one like dominos.

Deadshot walks over to the rail- meeting a scaffold which extends through the remaining floors below. He looks down the rotunda, spots his men RUNNING up the spiraling staircase.

Then, a CANISTER rolls between Deadshot’s feet. It begins to FIZZ as it shoots a thick white smoke. Deadshot steps onto the scaffold.

DEADSHOTWe haven’t killed you yet Batman, so you must be stronger.

He fires BLINDLY into the smoke.

DEADSHOTBut remember, the strongest man in the world is he who stands most alone.

KA-TINK! On a metal scaffolding pipe- Deadshot’s line of sight meets with a MAGNETIC EXPLOSIVE. He pitches to his side as it BLOWS.

104.

The the top scaffold begins to COLLAPSE- soon the whole thing TILTS dangerously into the center of the rotunda. Deadshot ROLLS as it falls- jumping into-


Deadshot checks his bearings. Re-adjusts his mask.

DEADSHOT(to himself)

Wouldn’t have it any other way...

Deadshot slaps his shotgun back, and unholsters a GRENADE LAUNCHER. Shoots the CEILING-


The floor ERUPTS from Deadshot’s explosion. Batman stumbles as he’s ENGULFED by showering DEBRIS. He quickly presses a BUTTON on his utility belt


Deadshot readies another round just as Batman’s tether, still WRAPPED around his arm, begins to GLOW. It SHOOTS an ELECTRICAL CURRENT through his body. He drops HARD.

INT. OPERATION ROOM, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- CONTINUOUS

GORDONI want to see a line of perps led into this building. I want them whatever it takes. Get em outta there.

LIEUTENANTYes, sir.

(to Sergeant)Go.

SERGEANT DECOSTA, young, athletic. Speaks into a radio:

DECOSTATake the building.

EXT. GOTHAM LIBRARY -- NIGHT

SWAT OFFICERS pour out of vans, RACE around the corner entrance of the building.

105.

INT. 2ND FLOOR, GOTHAM LIBRARY -- CONTINUOUS

The goons stop at the sight of swirling BLUE and RED lights out the window... One goon presses on a REMOTE.

EXT. ROOF, GOTHAM LIBRARY -- CONTINUOUS

The WEAPON SYSTEM whirs to life.

It takes point on the city block littered with police vans... It FIRES 50mm rounds every 3/4 of a second. Every burst, LOUDER than the last.

One bullet CUTS THROUGH the engine of a VAN, sending it FLYING in an EXPLOSION.


Batman holds his ground. Hears the sentry gun going wild. He pulls a small package out of his utility belt... eyes the ceiling... right about where the sentry gun is placed...

EXT. GOTHAM LIBRARY -- CONTINUOUS

ADAMS screams into his car radio:

ADAMSShots fired! Shots fired!

2ND FLOOR WINDOW cracks open as the goons exchange GUNFIRE.


Batman stands at the edge- looking into the rotunda.

BATMANAlfred. Home in.

He sends himself into a FREE FALL- Just as a rollicking EXPLOSION ERUPTS BEHIND HIM, sending the SENTRY GUN FALLING from the ROOF.

The Batman’s cape goes RIGID, and he glides directly into-


The goon, BIRD, shoots at the streets, LAUGHING. Too focused to realize a FLAPPING CLOAK BEHIND HIM.

106.

BATMAN YANKS his gun, FLIPS HIM, sending him flying outside over the LEDGE.

Bird FALLS, screaming, as suddenly a WIRE PULLS TAUT around his ankle.

The other goons quickly take note. Monster is the first to aim, but Batman is closing FAST.


Deadshot struggles to pull himself to a standing position.

He shakes any residual effects of the shock. And from his vantage point, he can see Batman, like a shadow, dispatching all the goons one by one.


Monster unloads his weapon at Batman, tossing a table over, releases an empty clip, swiftly taking another from his vest, RELOADS.

Monster looks up towards DEADSHOT, who’s AIMING HIS GRENADE LAUNCHER.

MONSTERNO WAIT-

A BLAST SHOOTS across the floor, shredding MONSTER’S BODY into nothingness.

Batman JUMPS behind a cement column. Unscathed.


A SWAT TEAM slide through the entrance, flashlights whipping through the darkened hallway. They split into two groups.


Deadshot races down the stairs. Rushes over to a high-tech computer console next to a gas powered GENERATOR.

Deadshot hits a key-

107.


A line of compact explosives GO OFF, letting the remaining scaffolding COLLAPSE in on itself.

It repels the SWAT TEAM, as a sudden dust cloud RUSHES towards them.

INT. MAINTENANCE ROOM, GOTHAM LIBRARY -- CONTINUOUS

Another set of explosions. Effectively sealing the TUNNEL.


Deadshot plops his grenade launcher on a work table. Takes packs of RIFLE AMMO. Suddenly, from behind, the faint SWOOSH sound of fluttering cape...

He turns on his heels. Sees nothing.

Rifle raised, he slowly walks between the frames of incomplete walls...

BATMAN CHARGES THROUGH DRYWALL- Deadshot STAGGERS back, FIRES- The bullet cracking Batman’s right brow- GLANCING off his temporal plate. Deadshot is STRICKEN in the throat, LOSING his gun.

In a swift motion, Batman DISASSEMBLES the rifle in THREE PIECES.

BATMANWithout your weapons you’re nothing.

Deadshot chokes. He places a hand on his holstered SHOTGUN.

BATMANAnd without your fingers...

In a flash, Batman twists Deadshot’s hand, pulls on the INDEX FINGER- BREAKING IT. Before Deadshot can yell in pain, Batman elbows him in the gut, and repeats himself on the OTHER HAND.

BATMANYou might as well play dead.

Deadshot finally HOWLS as he’s thrown into the computer console. He writhes in pain, skidding the floor.

108.

BATMANYou’re finished. Police has this place surrounded.

DEADSHOTThe police? They’d rather make love to their faces than fight.

Deadshot spots a gasoline STORAGE CAN near the generator.

DEADSHOTLucky for you, I have a different trigger finger.

Deadshot flips him the bird.

And in that same instant, Deadshot twirls around THROWING the GAS CAN AT BATMAN. And with his other hand he TEARS OFF his shotgun and cracks a SHOT.

The gas IGNITES MID-AIR splashing on BATMAN. Who simply recoils his head away.

But the fire doesn’t catch for too long. Keeping steadfast, Batman stands tall, slightly smoldering as a fire breaks out on the wall BEHIND HIM.

DEADSHOTFireproof? Damn. You really are a wonder Batman.

Deadshot drops his shotgun. Unsheathes a large KNIFE.

DEADSHOTLet’s forget our toys for a second. How about it?

He gets in a bent battle position. Batman focuses into a defensive stance...

Deadshot SPRINGS forward and they FIGHT, trading PUNCHES, grappling, taking each other to the floor...

DEADSHOTNice footwork. But can you dance too?

Deadshot swings 180, slashing Batman’s forearm.

Batman sends a FLYING KNEE which Deadshot BLOCKS on contact. He tries to get better footing, but Batman has better control, POUNDING on Deadshot’s ribs.

109.

Batman delivers a KILLER UPPERCUT, sending Deadshot through a wall. Batman picks him up and FLOORS HIM AGAIN

Batman reaches out once more, only to have a CHAIN wrap around his arm. Locked together, Deadshot snaps up.

DEADSHOTGive the police some credit. They can catch us both!

Deadshot CRACKS Batman with another set of chains. Batman then forms into a BACK ROLL, pulling Deadshot. Batman plants both his feet on Deadshot’s stomach and SENDS HIM FLYING.

Deadshot lands beside his SHOTGUN. He snaps it up, just as the bat grapple SMASHES into him. He falls back, but is then PLUCKED to his feet as the grapple automatically draws him CLOSER to Batman.

Deadshot harnesses all his strength and catches hold of a STEEL COLUMN. He watches the grappling wire SNAP TIGHT followed by Batman being PULLED OFF HIS FEET.

Batman let’s go of his bat grapple, but Deadshot’s already in position and STOMPS on Batman’s head. Pulls him up by the chains around his arm, and SWINGS Batman face first into a DESK.

Batman lays motionless.

Deadshot exhales. Walks in closer. He lifts Batman by one of his EARS. Just then- Batman GRIPS into Deadshot’s throat.

DEADSHOTDon’t hold your breath!

Deadshot strains to get in close- a wrist mechanism props out of his sleeve, SPRAYING A GAS.

Batman spits it out. Having a taste.

BATMAN(realizing)

Fear Toxin.

Batman is THROWN into a bookshelf.

DEADSHOTFear me, Batman. Fear the gunslinger.

Deadshot watches intently. Patiently.

110.

Batman steps back, the toxins effect taking hold. The world comes at him in ways only he understands. He shifts away from nonexistent shapes.

He runs into an AISLE of bookshelves. The fire seeps through corners, letting float ashes of several hundred books.

INSERT CUT: PEARLS spilling on ASPHALT.

Batman tips back. Shoulders a bookshelf. Breathes deep.

He looks behind, sees DEADSHOT. The mask does no favors as the toxin makes him APPEAR MACHINE-LIKE.

DEADSHOTI can pretty much throw a dart in this place and it'll land on a novel more entertaining than you.

Deadshot lifts Batman and SLAMS him against the shelving.

DEADSHOTI think you’ll be happy to know you’re worth double if kept alive. I’m under a new employer!

Deadshot grabs him up again, commands him around a corner, and THROWS BATMAN into a FIRE, now spreading wide across the floor.

DEADSHOTBut then again, I still get paid whether or not you get killed.

Batman gets on his knees. Stay inside the flames.

INSERT CUT: GUNSHOT. ALLEY where two bodies lay side by side covered by blankets as police scavenge the scene.

Batman shakes his head. The toxin becoming more INTENSE.

DEADSHOTSee, I make sure to meet a contract’s condition even if my life’s in jeopardy. But no job has been as pleasurable as this one.

THE FLAMES wrap around BATMAN’S body, PEELING away at his armor.

Batman realizes he feels no pain. Just illusion. He slowly rises amidst the FLAMES. Almost like a divine mythical creature.

111.

Deadshot takes off his mask. Smiles at Batman’s vigor.

DEADSHOTThough, you’re no ordinary civilian. You made me bleed. I’ve been searching for the day for someone like you... to finally make me feel... endangered.

He pokes around construction equipment. Picks up a SLEDGEHAMMER.

DEADSHOT (CONT’D)Now, the question of the hour: Who’s to live long enough to see Gotham City burn to the ground? You or me?

Batman takes a step forward.


SWAT forces help themselves to get to their feet. The entire area is layered in metal pipes and wooden boards.

A commotion. The SWAT take notice- off at the THIRD FLOOR...

INT. STAIRWELL, GOTHAM LIBRARY -- CONTINUOUS

Deadshot falls head first into the stairs. He quickly rolls out of way just as Batman DROP KICKS. Both jump into-


Deadshot hops towards an aisle of weapon crates. He zips around- catches a teeth grinding PUNCH.

He swings his sledgehammer, Batman evades- Deadshot JABS the butt of the handle, knocking Batman back.

Batman looks to the ceiling- slabs of concrete begin to fall, in danger of crushing Batman.

Deadshot watches Batman as he mindlessly thrashes around at hallucinations.

Deadshot finally SWINGS into Batman’s KNEE- putting him on the floor. Deadshot then SLAMS THE HAMMER on Batman’s shin. THE CRACK is drowned by Batman HOWLING.

112.

Deadshot loses the sledgehammer, maintains a surgical expression, and GRABS Batman’s foot.

Batman tries to kick him off. Futile. He is then pulled- HARD, as Deadshot skids him into a corner.

DEADSHOTIf you’re not going to fight. Let me make this simple.

Deadshot lets go, suddenly walks away. Batman SPITS even though his mouth is dry. From nowhere, Deadshot kick slides a CRATE FULL OF GRENADES. Batman stops it with his shoulder, cautiously edges himself up...

He spots Deadshot SLIDING A ROCKET INTO AN RPG. Batman palms his utility belt- HIS GRAPPLE WAS LEFT UPSTAIRS.

Deadshot AIMS.

Batman freezes- an upwelling wave of terror consumes him.

Then Deadshot looks away from the aiming sights:

DEADSHOTBang, you’re dead.

He lowers the RPG.

DEADSHOTThat was too easy. Your turn.

A GRENADE round FLIES into view. It SPEWS a band of smoke.


THUNK! The SWAT shoot another round, sending cover for a row of SWAT gathering against the wall. Who point their weapons up the flight of stairs-


Deadshot waits a moment. Lets the smoke surround him.

Batman then swiftly cuts THROUGH THE SMOKE, dispatches a flurry of punches.

Deadshot fires his ROCKET- CORKSCREWING at an incredible speed it parts the smoke as it flies into- THE CRATE.

The whole level is then ROCKED in a wild FIREWORKS DISPLAY. Every grenade POPPING one after the other.

113.

The smoke is CLEARED by blasting SHOCKWAVES.

Then we see the FLOOR... or what’s left of it... as it CRACKS AND FOLDS, STRIPPING itself away from the wall and support columns.

Deadshot and Batman, locked in grapple- they look at the wide, gaping HOLE. The floor beneath their feet then PIVOTS, and SENDS THEM CRASHING DOWN.


A giant portion of the second floor SLANTS DOWNWARDS. WEAPON CRATES fall into the center of the rotunda.

As the dust settles, Deadshot stands, wobbling in a daze- STONE DEAF to the commands by the SWAT, POINTING their guns.

He finally comes to. Looks around. Visibly disheartened.

When suddenly- THE WRAITH CRASHES THROUGH THE SKYLIGHT. Its wings bent into a fixed position, HOVERING. A massive UNDERCURRENT rushes into the rotunda.

THE WRAITH DROPS A LINE.

The police all STARE in wonder, distracted- as Deadshot takes advantage PULLING on a THERMITE GRENADE. Batman JUMPS UP, puts Deadshot in a SLEEPER HOLD. The grenade rolls out of his palm... pin detached!

Batman GRABS THE LINE, whips it around his utility belt. It PULLS both Batman and Deadshot, moments before the grenade BLOWS-

The police cower at the blast, drop to the floor. They look up just as the WRAITH DISAPPEARS.

An eerie quietness sets in. Nothing left but burning books.

INT. OFFICE BUILDING -- NIGHT

A janitor whistles to himself as he vacuums the floor. Outside, the Wraith FLIES past- RATTLING THE WINDOWS.

The janitor never takes notice.

EXT. GOTHAM -- SUNRISE

MOVING over SPIRES of the city catching GOLD of first light.

114.

INT. UNDER A BRIDGE -- MORNING

A couple walk fast through the narrow passage. They stop at the sight of a WALL OF GRAFFITI. Written in bold, black letters:

THE SOCIETY WILL RISE

EXT. STREET -- MORNING

A manhole cover is slid off. From underground emerges BLACK MASK, holding a cellphone in his hand.

He moves tiredly and beaten. In a dark mood.

The street is fairly empty, save for a garbage truck picking up the stacks of black garbage bags laid out on the sidewalks.

Then, the driver side OPENS. Out comes STEAMPUNK, greeting Black Mask.

STEAMPUNKHe got control of the factory.

EXT. CITY STREET -- MORNING

A series of televisions in a store front. Blaring the news:

NEWSCASTER...The police have put a city-wide alert due to a potential bomb threat. Despite these warnings, thousands fill Gotham streets.

INT. OPERATION ROOM, MCU, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- MORNING

Gordon attends a crowd of police. He uses a pen light to indicate what’s on the projector screen.

GORDONWe’ve called in local counties to help out with the protest. I need MCU locked and tight. So far, the case sounds impossible to break. Follow every lead. Let’s deal with what we know, not with what we don’t.

ON SCREEN: A still image of a SILVER SPHERE.

115.

GORDONFirst up. The missing item


Devil SLIDES a tape gun across a trio of black metal drums. They each contain a TOXIC HAZARD PLACARD.

GORDON (V.O.)It’s intent is not to maximize casualties but to cause panic.

A gun is JAMMED into his throat. Devil turns to see Wolf signalling him to get out...

INT. OPERATION ROOM, MCU, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- CONTINUOUS

ON SCREEN: A red circle on a city map.

GORDONTypically, there’s a yield of point zero one kilotons. Enough to take out a city block.

EXT. CITY STREET -- CONTINUOUS

A small rally of persons. They seemingly pour out from narrow alleys.

GORDON (V.O.)With a sizable protest happening before City Hall, and moving towards Wayne Tower, our priority is downtown.

A sign bearing crowd, among them, groups of people handing out VARIOUS MASKS.

EXT. CITY STREET -- CONTINUOUS

Back at the storefront: The newscaster turns to a guest, a sleazy county executive.

COUNTY EXECUTIVEWe’re talking disability, social, and employment pensions. We’re talking about the continued safety of citizen assets. They have all the right to protest...

116.

INT. OPERATION ROOM, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- NIGHT

Next slide. The CLOCK TOWER.

GORDONMajor Crimes, keep us up to date.

Gordon singles out a detective. Who stands and reads out a report.

DETECTIVEIt isn’t different than any other tower. He knew every detail but that may not mean he’s an employee. We checked the personnel who were absent that day or who had quit recently. There were very few.

Gordon sits at the front desk, listening.

Next slide. The LIBRARY.

DETECTIVEWe don’t believe the library to be their base of operations. More like a weapons cache. It also doesn’t help that Batman seemingly kidnapped a suspect.

EXT. CITY HALL -- MORNING

Police and security forces erect a 3-meter high fence.

Beyond the street. An early demonstration of people holding signs making demands.

EXT. OLD GOTHAM -- MORNING

A roving band of protesters set fire to a POLICE VEHICLE. They disperse at the sound of SIRENS BLARING. Two cops stroll through the street. They identify a few protestors disguised with colorful bandanas:

COP(eager)

Those masks?

COP 2Cool it, they’re just bandanas.

A masked protestor LAUNCHES HIMSELF on the hood of the police car. FOAM RUNS out the bottom of his mask.

117.

INT. OPERATION ROOM, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- MORNING

GORDONFox’s case. Vehicles.

DETECTIVE #2Witnesses say it was a blue sedan. It was probably stolen. I asked vehicles theft, this month 12 cars were stolen. But before this case came up only ten were found. This leaves two still around, and only one is blue. And it was stolen the day before the case broke out.

A PHONE RINGS. Gordon picks up. Sends the detective a roll of his fingers to continue.

GORDONJim Gordon speaking.

(beat)I’ll be right there.

INT. SUB-BASEMENT, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- DAY

Fields rests on a wall, straightens when Gordon approaches.

FIELDSSuicide pill hidden in a molar cavity. Jumped on a police car when he offed himself.

GORDONSo is he part of the Society?

Fields nods ever so slightly, unsure.

GORDONSo what are we looking at?

INT. OPERATION ROOM, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- DAY

ON SCREEN: A scan of another sheet of ceramic fiber paper. On it, a TRIANGLE of disarranged letters. No clear words.

MAYAn anagram. Without a cipher it will take a while.

118.

GORDONMay, I want you on top of this. You figured out the last one, I trust you on this.

MAYWill do.

GORDONMe on the other hand... I think I’ll keep up the morale. Outside.

May watches Gordon leave.

MAYSir? Do I pass this over to...

GORDONShouldn’t be a question.

Furrowing her brow, she looks to the puzzle.

EXT. CITY LIMITS, ROAD -- DAY

We follow a PAINT TRUCK as it follows progressively quieter and narrower dirt roads. The shrubbery suddenly get shorter, allowing the truck to see an expansive field winding into the front of WAYNE MANOR.

EXT. WAYNE MANOR -- DAY

A door to the triple garage OPENS. The paint truck gradually parks inside.

INT. GARAGE, WAYNE MANOR -- DAY

A KNOCK. With urgency.

Alfred opens the door to find people in painting uniforms. The first one looks up and pulls off his CAP-

DECOSTAI’m Sergeant Decosta from the GPD. If you don’t mind, we’d like to ask a few questions.

He holds up a warrant.

119.

INT. EXTENDED GARAGE -- LATER

Alfred leads the detectives through a football field-size spread of cars of all types. They hardly notice a 1955 Lincoln Futura concept.

DECOSTAI hope you understand we can’t risk the kidnappers knowing that we’ve contacted you; in case of a ransom.

ALFREDHave you spoken to the other executives?

DECOSTAWe have.

ALFREDAnd?

DECOSTAYou want the honest truth?

(Alfred nods)If anyone had a grudge, you couldn’t count them all.

INT. A DARK ROOM

EYES SNAP OPEN. They belong to Floyd... Breathing hard. He’s handcuffed to chair, stripped to his waist. HISSES at his aching muscles.

FLOYDOne. Hell. Of a hangover.

Floyd sees nothing but his own reflection a few feet in front of him. In fact, all FOUR WALLS are the same glassy material.

FLOYDBatman-

THE PIERCING SCREECH of a speaker booming to life. Followed by an altered VOICE, via voice changer.

ALTERED VOICE (BRUCE WAYNE)Floyd Lawton. Mercenary. Never made a comprehensive confession of crimes. Escaped from Ognenny Ostrov-

FLOYDThat. That was the doing of your friends here in Gotham.

120.

(MORE)

You can do anything with a lot of money... And a suicide squad.

ALTERED VOICEBlack Mask would have wanted you to dispatch Batman. Who’s your new employer?

FLOYDDid I let that slip? New employer?

No response.

FLOYDBats?

K-THAK! On the bottom of all four walls the moldings SLIDE up, revealing a GRATE. WATER BEGINS TO RUSH INSIDE.

Floyd curls his toes.

FLOYDSon of a bitch is freezing!

Suddenly in front of him, a VIDEO MONITOR activates behind the glass wall. It shows the TRIANGULAR WORD PUZZLE.

ALTERED VOICEAny clues to solve this thing?

Floyd chuckles. Spits phlegm into the water.

INT. LIBRARY, WAYNE MANOR -- DAY

Detectives sit around. Decosta admires an antique fireplace.

ALFRED(approaching)

A little caffeine for the cobwebs?

The detectives shake their heads.

DECOSTAWe’d just like to speak to Bruce...


Bruce Wayne massages a splinter on his leg. We see he is covered in bandages.

One monitor shows the schematics of a plutonium sphere.

121.

FLOYD (CONT'D)

He types into the console.

INT. A DARK ROOM -- CONTINUOUS

ALTERED VOICEFloyd, let’s start with the bomb.

The water now gushes at Floyd’s chest. He gasps as an icy cold shock runs through his body.

FLOYDThey can be anywhere by now.

VOICETell me something Floyd, or you’ll freeze before you drown.

Floyd sucks in sharp, ragged breaths.

FLOYD(sotto)

My name’s... Deadshot.

VOICESay again?

FLOYDI’m the key. Deadshot. A bull’s eye.

(re: triangle puzzle)Divide the triangle with a circle and a cross... draw it inside and you have divided four verses...


Wayne brings up the puzzle on a handheld VDU. He brings out a marker and ruler, begins to DRAW. The bull’s eye CROSSES OUT CERTAIN LETTERS.

Alfred walks in from behind. Wayne senses him.

ALFREDMaster Bruce. The detectives are here, and I’ve seemingly run out of ways to entertain them.

Wayne presses a button. ON SCREEN: the water STOPS rising.

WAYNE(re: wounds)

I can’t go like this.

122.

ALFREDMuch easier to hide bullet wounds under a turtleneck.

Wayne shakes his head. No time for anything except the puzzle...

INT. SAME -- SECONDS LATER

The computer processes the letters- REARRANGING them lightening fast. Until finally, the puzzle is complete.

Alfred reads it aloud. Ingesting every word:

I’ve swallowed a prince/ as old as time. I’m a twisting path/ surging with water.Look in the channel/ outfox this rhyme. I’m under your feet/ never a bother.

Alfred doesn’t make sense of it, looks to Wayne who’s finishing taking the remaining characters from the triangle’s CORNERS, and rearranging them into an ADDRESS:

EIGHTY/ COLLET/ STREET

WAYNEIt’s telling me where Fox is...

INT. A DARK ROOM -- CONTINUOUS

The water has settled at Floyd’s chin, his eyes SNAP SHUT.

The floor suddenly TRANSFORMS into a framework of latticed bars, DRAINING the water. The lights above FLICKER on.

Floyd sticks his tongue out as he fights the cold.

ALTERED VOICEI have the solution. I almost didn’t expect you to throw in the towel.

FLOYD(grossly offended)

My destiny isn't determined by a swim in the water. I prefer a knife. Maybe some bullets.

ALTERED VOICEDespite what the media illustrates, I’ve never killed.

123.

Deadshot mutters a laugh.

FLOYDThat’s... That is disappointing.

A wicked smile paints his face. It hides his humiliation.

INT. DISUSED BAT-BUNKER -- CONTINUOUS

We’re able to recognize this LOW-CEILINGED CONCRETE CHAMBER.

Floyd’s glass and metal prison cell RISES from the ground.

EXT. RAIL YARDS -- DAY

A SATELLITE DISH adorns the top corner of a FREIGHT CONTAINER- The ENTRANCE to the Bat-Bunker. At the base of the dish... a compact explosive GOES OFF, shredding it to pieces, and purging all evidence...

INT. OPERATION ROOM, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- DAY

May catches wind of a message on her computer screen. She clicks it open, her eyes widen.

INT. PLATFORM, BAT CAVE -- DAY

A platform mounts into place revealing the TUMBLER II. Batman plunks down. He revs it up.

ALFREDIt might be another trap.

Batman straps on.

BATMANI know.

ALFREDCourse, it doesn’t help you’re riding something that’s worked beyond its scrapping date!

With that, BATMAN RACES towards the waterfall until the FLOOR DROPS creating a path into an UNDERGROUND TUNNEL.

124.

INT. HALLWAY, WAYNE MANOR -- LATER

A GRANDFATHER CLOCK slides against the wall, Alfred squeezes out. Just as the door closes, Alfred turns to face DECOSTA.

ALFRED(nervous laughter)

By jove! A sliding panel and secret stairway. It reminds me of some of the old castles in England.

Decosta raises a brow.

EXT. CATHEDRAL SQUARE -- DAY

High in the sky, creeping around the clouds, a shimmering object. Gordon watches it, cups a hand in front of him.

He looks back down. Back to reality... the real city...

Riot police BARRICADE BOTH ENDS of a street, pounding their shields in warning. A hundred people yell in protest.

Gordon steps forward with Adams.

GORDONWhat’s this?

COPWe’ve reason to believe members of the Society are in the crowd.

GORDONAll right. Then screen all these people.

COPSir, we requested to have select files of people of interest. There may be more than one perp.

Gordon widens his eyes in disbelief.

GORDONNo. Screen these people immediately.

A brief pause.

GORDONWhat is this, a staring contest? Move it!

125.

INT. STOREFRONT, CATHEDRAL SQUARE -- CONTINUOUS

An officer whips his flashlight around the store. He checks the front entrance. It’s shut tight with chains.

OFFICERDoor’s barred from the inside. No way anybody got in here.

INT. SECOND STOREFRONT, CATHEDRAL SQUARE -- CONTINUOUS

The same deal. Metal cages block anybody from the street from entering.

SECOND OFFICER(into radio)

That’s a negative. Store is clear.


Gordon strides in front of a line of MOUNTED POLICE. The horses grunt at the commotion.

GORDONWe need to lead them away from the business district. I want a line of cops on every block pushing everybody back.

ADAMSThey’re burning police cars out there.

GORDONUse that to our advantage. Send decoys away from Wayne Tower, and leave them to burn.

ADAMSDecoys?

GORDONWe can afford it.

EXT. MARKET DISTRICT -- DAY

The protest continues along, FILLING THE STREET end to end. A student wears a red band around his arm, acts as an amateur medic:

126.

RAGTAG MEDIC(hollering)

Is anybody hurt? Is anybody hurt?

Then, he’s PUSHED to the floor. Cracks his nose.

A young man FORCES himself through the crowd, delivers a BRICK right into a STORE WINDOW. He rushes inside, takes handful of batteries, headphones, and other gadgets.

The young man steps outside, and is TACKLED by a passerby.

PASSERBYWhat’re you doing, huh?

He repeats himself, holding the young man’s head. Who finally let’s go of his stolen goods.

A crowd manages to wrap around the two.

PASSERBYDon’t steal, man. We’re not stealing anything today.

The passerby releases him.

The young man tries to regain composure, completely embarrassed. He gives a look to the passerby who’s busy picking up the goods, tossing them back into the store.

INT. MARKET DISTRICT -- LATER

Protestors YELL frantically. Finally, a hand comes flying. A BEER BOTTLE streams through the air. Smashes at a COPS feet. A horse nays, up on hind legs as...

The air now rains down with bottles and trash; crashing all around the COPS. Shields up. Deflecting the damage. A WHISTLE BLOWS. Raising their night sticks, the police storm the crowd.

From the crowd, SEMI-AUTOMATIC GUNFIRE. Followed by CHAOS.

The lieutenant hides behind a Police Van.

SOKOLOWERWho’s shooting? Somebody’s packed, Jesus.

127.

EXT. ROOF OVERLOOKING CATHEDRAL SQUARE -- DAY

Batman lands HARD on his weak leg. He holds it, mentally fights the pain. He then takes out a radio jammer and points it at GORDON, who’s at the street below.


Gordon hears a SCRAMBLE in his radio. Then a MORSE CODE.

GORDONBatman...

He walks away, gets into an alcove.

INTERCUT with Batman on the roof.

BATMANI have an address. Possible location of Lucius.

GORDONHow?

BATMANI didn’t take a high profile killer to dinner last night for nothing.

GORDONAnd where is this said date of yours, safe?

BATMANI relayed his location to one of your detectives. I also have other news. On the bomb.

GORDONWhat is it?

BATMANThere may be more than one.

GORDONHow many...?

BATMANA typical nuclear weapon core is five kilograms. That means they can produce three plutonium spheres.

128.

GORDON(looks around)

I’m sort of stuck in a rut here...

BATMANLet me clear the crowd.

GORDONIs that even possible?

BATMANYou’ll be able to pinpoint some Society members. Anyone who’s run into me in the past... will be yours.

GORDONI don’t get it. How?

A reverberating tone... getting louder.

BATMANTrust me.

Gordon cocks his head up to see the WRAITH SCREAMING OVERHEAD. It launches a GAS at the protestors who spread out and SCREAM.

Before the Wraith reaches the end of the street it aviates vertically. Twirling out of sight...


A SONIC WEAPON fits atop a police truck. It sends protestors back in a cowering state.

The Lieutenant knocks on the driver’s door.

SOKOLOWERCut it off. They’re done.

Up ahead, an UNMARKED WHITE VAN.


Masked protestors DROP, coughing at the cloud of gas. Yet, the majority of people remain unaffected, RUNNING away.

Near the mounted police Gordon watches it all unfold:

129.

GORDON(in radio)

Open up the streets, let the people get out.

(to nearest officers)Tag those on the floor!


The lieutenant gets close to the van. No driver. Notices the back doors slightly ajar...

He opens the back of the van. Pokes his gun in front of barrels of toxic waste and a LARGE TIMER:

00:05...00:04...00:03...

SOKOLOWERNo...

It explodes in his face.

The sidewalk implodes, soon disappearing in a blast that RIPS through the ENTIRE STREET. A FIRE CLOUD erupts into the sky.

EXT. ROOF OVERLOOKING CATHEDRAL SQUARE -- DAY

Batman sees the cloud forming between buildings a few blocks away. A massive shockwave surfs the rooftops.

Batman’s face loses color.


Gordon walks behind a officers running towards DOWNED PEDESTRIANS, knocked out by the gas. One officer turns over a masked pedestrian, and hidden in their coat, a MACHINE GUN. Gordon grinds his teeth.

A BOOMING ECHO. Distant car alarms go off.

Gordon pulls at his hair.

GORDONMy God. Was that it?

ADAMS(pointing)

Sir!

Up ahead. A GARBAGE TRUCK. The driver still inside.

130.

INT. GARBAGE TRUCK -- CONTINUOUS

STEAMPUNK grips the drivers wheel. He breathes hard. Looks at all the approaching cops...

EXT. CATHEDRAL SQUARE -- CONTINUOUS

Gordon halts all his officers. Waves them to get back.

GORDONWait! I need snipers and a bomb squad. That truck right there-

He points to the driver.

The truck is suddenly put to DRIVE, and makes a U-TURN. It drives through the shattered police barricade.

GORDONFollow it! Follow it!

EXT. STREET -- CONTINUOUS

The truck flies through the street. Swerving around pedestrians, turns hard into a BACK ALLEY of shops. It speeds through, snapping TREE BRANCHES and hitting TRASH CANS.

EXT. CITY-CENTRE STREET -- CONTINUOUS

Police hurry in their cars. Speed off.

GORDON (V.O.)Pursuit. White garbage truck. Heading East.

INT. POLICE VAN -- CONTINUOUS

Gordon sits in the passenger side as Adams takes the wheel.

GORDON(into radio)

Proceed with caution.


The truck CHARGES out of the alley, knocks down a mailbox. Its tires burn the road. Here, the pedestrians are much less and Steampunk FLOORS the pedal.

131.

He drives past a multi-level CAR PARK. Hears a CRASHING SOUND. As he looks in his wing mirror... THE TUMBLER ROARS AROUND A BEND, COMING RIGHT FOR HIM.

INT. BATMOBILE -- CONTINUOUS

Batman presses a button. A SONAR VIEW of the van ahead reveals the driver to be alone with a BOMB in the back.

Batman grits his teeth and PUNCHES the THROTTLE.


The truck slides onto a tightly curving EXIT RAMP, leading him through a BRIDGE. The batmobile is in hot pursuit.

EXT. BRIDGE -- CONTINUOUS

The truck lurches side to side, SMASHING through cars. It then pulls to the side, goes AGAINST the traffic.


Batman puts the Batmobile on autopilot and the seat transforms, sending him in a prone position: Firing mode.


Pedestrian vehicles swerve out of the oncoming truck. An elephant on wheels. The Batmobile SHOOTS at the back tires.

It then shoots a flurry of SPARKS.

INT. TRUCK -- CONTINUOUS

Steampunk looks back at the Batmobile. He looks to the passenger seat. Where Black Mask’s CELLPHONE lies. He looks to the road. The cellphone. The road. Hesitates.

INT. POLICE VAN -- CONTINUOUS

A crackle in the radio, then:

RADIOThe batmobile is giving chase.

132.

Adams looks to Gordon in surprise. Gordon stares into the radio microphone before finally speaking into it.

GORDONDo not attack Batman. Give him some space. I repeat. Batman is to be left alone.

Adams knits his brows. Can’t possibly believe what Gordon’s saying.


The batmobile SLAMS into the side the garbage truck, which skids onto the sidewalk. It comes back on the road. The batmobile pushes HARDER.

The truck barely careens off in time and narrowly misses the wall.

Batman looks ahead, sees the bridge road dipping towards a line of POLICE CARS.

EXT. SPLIT ROAD -- CONTINUOUS

The barricade is strong. But the police wander out of the cars, watching both vehicles show no sign of SLOWING DOWN.

COPMove it! There may be a bomb!

The police abandon their cars and RUN AWAY.

MOMENTS BEFORE IMPACT, the truck SLAMS on its breaks. Letting the Batmobile shoot AHEAD.

Batman PULLS on the emergency breaks, directing the Batmobile into a WILD BURNOUT. It does a 360 around the truck, once it faces a side it SHOOTS A TETHER into the walls of the truck.

The Batmobile expedites, burning rubber, straightens up and follows up with AFTERBURNERS, rocketing through a SIDE PATH.

The truck LIFTS OFF its tires, and is DRAGGED away by the Batmobile.


SPARKS fly as the truck skates on its side. The driver tumbles around, held somewhat safely by his seat belt.

133.

EXT. CONSTRUCTION SITE -- CONTINUOUS

The batmobile CRASHES through, sending an array of dirt and debris.

The batmobile bounces dangerously as it rides through uneven ground. It hits a support beam before stopping completely.


Police sirens get closer...

Steampunk reaches for the cellphone in his breast pocket. Slowly dials a number, watches it RING until- A HAND SHOOTS OUT, grabs the phone.

Pressing cancel, Batman stares down the man through the smashed windshield.

EXT. CONSTRUCTION SITE -- DAY

Police cars surround the place. Gordon’s van edges close.

He steps out. Peers between a set of construction tractors, sees the headlights of the Batmobile TURN ON.

GORDONI want a squad and an ambulance on the truck. The rest, follow me.

Gordon flips around, gets back in his van.

Inside, Adams has remained still.

GORDONThe batmobile. Follow it.

ADAMSThe what?

The Batmobile SCREECHES PAST an excavator, and jets through the road. Police cars GIVE CHASE.

INT. WINE CELLAR -- DAY

ALFREDNow, here, is Spain’s most expensive wine, produced in Vega Sicilia...

134.

Alfred leads the detectives through an underground wine cellar. They each hold a wine glass.

Decosta stands at the side shaking his head. He lifts up a pad and begins writing.

ALFREDWhat’s that for?

DECOSTAA special consideration for Mr. Wayne.

EXT. DILAPIDATED FACTORY -- EVENING

The industrial part of Gotham, where the buildings are lower, the streets narrower... Squad cars BLAZE down the street. Keeping close to the roaring Batmobile.

INT. DILAPIDATED FACTORY -- EVENING

A HALF DOZEN guards patrol the factory, automatic weapons in hand. Wolf walks along the mezzanine, hears something...

A HUGE BLACK SHAPE SLAMS THROUGH A WALL. The batmobile.


One of the screens reads “EMP.” Batman flips a switch. The screen switches to “ACTIVATED.”

INT. DILAPIDATED FACTORY -- CONTINUOUS

AN INVISIBLE BLAST affects the lights, making them flicker. Somewhere, a circuit breaker sputters with a VOLTAGE SURGE.

The guards protest in the darkness, SHOOT at the batmobile.

EXT. DILAPIDATED FACTORY -- CONTINUOUS

A set of squad cars surround the place. Gordon stays put, on the edge of his seat, eyeing the hole in the factory.

ADAMSWhat do we do, sir?

GORDONWe wait for a signal.

135.

He holds his radio tight.

INT. DILAPIDATED FACTORY -- EVENING

Darkness. Silence.

WOLFNIGHT VISION!!

Through the lime green POV, we can distinguish the batmobile, where Wolf just catches the canopy close shut.

Wolf tenses up, feels the presence of Batman...

WOLFI need backup!

Wolf takes short steps, whips around nervously... catches sight of a FLASHING BATARANG on the floor. It is beeping. He gets closer... then... he hears a flapping cape behind him.


A trio of thugs snap cock their guns. The first one, DRAGON, takes the lead; RAT and GHOUL follow closely.

They grind to a halt as Dragon reaches a staircase. He points his gun, checks his corners, takes a step... and is PULLED AWAY INTO THE DARKNESS WITH A CRY-

Rat SHOOTS.

GHOULHold it!

Ghoul props himself against the railing, tosses a STUN GRENADE. As it blows, Ghoul looks to Rat... but he’s gone.

Having been sucked up into the OVERHEAD DUCT!

INT. DILAPIDATED FACTORY -- CONTINUOUS

SAMURAI and ROBOT strain to listen. Nothing but their nervous breathing. Then at the opposite corner, SCREAMING.

They haul themselves through a corridor.

They run smack into- GHOUL. They collide. Pick themselves up. Tears of nervous laughter, confusion.

136.

In a flash, Ghouls leg is snagged and is snatched into the air.

The remaining two spring back, SHOOTING. Their night vision fills with FLASHES OF WHITE.

Then nothing... ears peeled, Samurai whispers:

SAMURAIWhat the hell...

Robot looks towards a secluded spot- where a BRIGHT FIGURE enters his view, WASHING OUT the night vision.

ROBOTAh! The lights are on!

He takes off his goggles, only to realize...

It’s still pitch black.

Robot glances back into his goggles, the night vision BLARING OUT.

Samurai looks, sees nothing but a washed out vision. Hears a one-two punching sound. Robot is down.

Samurai RUNS FOR IT, turns down a corridor, hesitates, unsure of directions, doubling back on himself. Then he sees something in the darkness.

SAMURAI screams for help, but nobody hears him.


The police stand around their squad cars.

Gordon’s radio ticks of Morse Code. The Batman is finished inside... Gordon and his team move in.

INT. DILAPIDATED FACTORY -- LATER

Six men, all unmasked, dangle by their ankles in the center of the factory.

OFFICER(checking the bodies)

Knocked out by an ether.

GORDONI’m willing to bet it’s the same thing we saw at Cathedral Square.

137.

Gordon points, sends men up and around the perimeter.

His radio crackles.

BATMAN (V.O.)Downstairs. Come alone.

Gordon realizes no one else heard. A presence of mind washes over him.

INT. DISUSED BAT-BUNKER -- EVENING

Detectives stand on a container floor being lowered by a giant piston. They are stunned by the foreign surroundings. May is the first to step off.

Her and Floyd make eye contact. He snorts.

FLOYDAt least they sent the pretty one.

INT. BASEMENT HALLWAY, DILAPIDATED FACTORY -- EVENING

With a loud click and an even louder buzzing sound, very bright fluorescent lights come to life. Lighting up in rows.

Gordon is at the end of the long corridor. Spots the metal door at the very end.

Batman MATERIALIZES from behind. He’s limping.

GORDONWhat do you need?

BATMANI’ll press forward and after ten minutes you can send a team to follow.

Gordon doesn’t like the sound of that.

GORDONWhat’s up ahead?

BATMANAnswers.

Gordon stays a few steps behind as they walk.

GORDONClean up. That’s all we ever do around you!

138.

BATMANYou’re needed out there.

GORDONI can help.

BATMANThey want me and only me.

GORDONThey want you, because they want you out of the picture. Out of the streets. We still have a bomb-

Gordon grabs his arm to stop him. But lets go quickly. Batman stares deep into him a moment before he resumes walking.

GORDONLook, I’ve come to learn a few things. Your work is important because you can do things that the regular police could never do. When the ward car goes down the street guys hide their dope. They straighten up... You go in, and you get to see them as they are. You go in and the dope's not hidden. The conversation is not censored.

Batman reaches the door. GRIPS the handle.

GORDONWhat I’m trying to say is... I trust you. And I just hope... you trust me.

BATMANI do.

He opens the door.

EXT. DILAPIDATED FACTORY -- LATER

The door to the engine floor bursts open. Gordon marches out relaxed and unconcerned. He’s on the phone:

GORDONI want Gotham Central to only have high profile arrests. Send all other culprits to county departments. Travel quickly and as relatively lightly as possible...

139.

As he hangs up, Adams tugs at his arm. Who holds a baffled expression.

ADAMSYou’re hiding him. A vigilante, Jim! So he’s not a myth.

Gordon pulls away.

GORDONHe never was.

Adams slows his pace. Stops to see towering smoke columns hanging heavy over the horizon. The city is on fire.

INT. UNDERGROUND PASSAGEWAY-- EVENING

The walls are thick with moisture. Pipes and conduits snake across the ceiling.

Batman urges on, through the tunnel, past a waterway. He finds himself in the middle of a maze.

INT. LOBBY, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- CONTINUOUS

The room has risen to a new energy level. Clatter of speakers, teletype machines, and phones ringing off the hook.

May presses Floyd to a chair. She goes towards reception to process him. He takes a whiff of the air in disgust. Spits.

EXT. MARKET DISTRICT -- CONTINUOUS

A task force dressed in HAZMAT SUITS head towards the district. The devastation is slowly revealed as they approach: the wrecks of DOZENS of cars, collapsed storefronts, and a HUGE crater in the middle of the street.

INT. MASTER CONTROL, SEWAGE TREATMENT -- DAY

Dark and dormant like a crypt. Then... the sound of a breath. A gulp of life. Someone's heart is beating.

An incredible light BLASTS open the lock of a door. Batman steps through. Peering inside, the room is surrounded by arcane computer SPEAKERS.

In the center of the room. A man tied to a chair... LUCIUS FOX. He looks up, looking wan. Tries to smile.

140.

FOXI knew... I knew I’d see you.

Batman quickly gets on his knee and unties him.

A BOOMING VOICE comes through the speakers, peaking with distortion:

NASHTON (V.O.)Hello everyone, can I just have your attention for a moment... please everyone quiet down... hello, I just want to make a quick announcement...

Batman finishes, helps Lucius stand.

NASHTON (V.O.) (CONT’D)Do you know I hate people? When you're little, you believe the whole world loves you and you love the world back.

Batman takes a step forward, past a speaker. Hears an odd, static-like POPPING SOUND from the speakers.

NASHTON (V.O.) (CONT’D)But people need ignorance. Even if it's mistaken, the sense that you're loved gives you experiences, and you can be kind to others in turn.

Batman walks past another speaker... again confirming ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE.

NASHTON (V.O.) (CONT’D)People can only express the emotions they have. But I'm different. I constantly kill my will. I've been killing the darkness that is myself.

Batman quickly examines his suit. When he suddenly comes to a slow realization.

NASHTON (V.O.) (CONT’D)And the only emotion I have... is to cause pain.

Batman checks the instep of his boot, and finds a DEVICE. The size of a tack. A motion tracker?

141.

INT. SOMEWHERE DARK -- CONTINUOUS

Nashton watches a monitor with Batman and Lucius. He speaks into a microphone.

NASHTON (CONT’D)And what hurts, is that you’ve kept your true identity secret for years. How could I look in those pale slits and say, “I figured out your secret?”

INT. MASTER CONTROL, SEWAGE TREATMENT -- CONTINUOUS

Batman looks dead in the eye of Lucius.

FOX(sotto)

It wasn’t me...

NASHTON (V.O.)If you want to coax me out of making it public just do as my friend Alice did: pass the last of six brooks, and don’t be late for the coronation.

Nashton giggles before the speakers sputter and die out.

INT. UNDERGROUND PASSAGEWAY -- CONTINUOUS

The sewer system stretches far in all directions.

BATMANLast of six brooks?

FOXThrough the Looking-Glass. Alice was a pawn and had to pass several brooks. The last of six...

BATMAN...is when she became a Queen.

FOXYou’ll have to go North through six districts. That’s far.

Fox wobbles, guiding himself against the wall.

BATMANCan you stand?

142.

Flashlight beams cut through the dark. Police officers tread through a side tunnel.

FOX(nodding)

I’m fine. What’s your play?

Fox turns to face nothing. He is alone.


The paramedics jump with concern. They attend Fox who walks out with the help of three officers.

INT. AMBULANCE -- LATER

Fox is laid flat on a stretcher. Paramedics pull out trauma supplies. They slap a breathing mask on him.

His eyes flutter close...

DISSOLVE TO:

A TV SET PUT TO MUTE, on which a reporter gives the news of the day.

INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - DAY

Lucius Fox, alone in his sleep, alone in his bed, alone in his room.

Finally... slowly... softly, he opens his eyes with a sigh.

He looks at the TV. Then at the window. Where one hell of a rainstorm is pounding outside.

The door is opened, a nurse walks in. She smiles.

INT. HOSPITAL ROOM -- LATER

Fox, sitting up-right in his bed:

FOXThe whole weekend? I figured I was malnourished, but deprived of sleep?

Standing next to a table of flowers is his secretary.

143.

SECRETARYNow that you’ve slept through this whole riot, what will you do?

It doesn’t look like Fox is listening, but we hear the slight patter of a light rain hitting an umbrella-

INT. GOTHAM CEMETARY -- DAY

A drop of water hits Wayne’s hand as he places two roses in front of a gravestone. He’s perched low. Looks up to see Alfred adjusting umbrella positions.

ALFREDYou’ve made a choice.

WAYNEBut am I in the wrong?

ALFREDSimply a choice. I’m afraid there are no black and whites left in the world.

WAYNEWe saw the protest turn into a riot. Many felons weren’t caught.

ALFRED They’ll have to live with what they sowed. In the end, no one will be happy. They’ll carry pain within them, and you know none of them could ever just get over it, since their pain is what defines them.

A moment of lucidity flashes across Bruce’s face.

WAYNEAnd what about the pain that we hide behind? That no one can see?

ALFREDHad you been different, there would have been no order in Gotham City.

Wayne is stunned. As if somehow his destiny has been validated, if not preordained. Or maybe just justified.

ALFRED (CONT’D)And your father’s legacy would not have been saved.

144.

INT. BOARDROOM, WAYNE ENTERPRISES -- DAY

Fox, looking healthy, carefully takes a seat among other executives. A presentation begins at the front of the room.

Lights dim, and someone from the corner:

PRESENTERWhat’s the most expensive thing on Earth?

A projector screen lights up.

PRESENTERThat’s the thing, it’s not on Earth.

On the screen: The International Space Station.

PRESENTERAt 160 Billion dollars, the ISS trumps all. Our tech was just sold to most participants. The European share alone will keep Wayne Enterprises in business. We’re talking geometric optics, holography, and photorefractive materials. Just simply from one. Rare. Blue. Diamond.

EXECUTIVE(hand up)

Military?

PRESENTERYes, they clearly see value in our divisions.

EXECUTIVESo we’re manufacturing weapons.

PRESENTERMr. Wayne was adamant in calling it “communications.”

Fox smiles at this.

EXECUTIVEWhere is Mr. Wayne by the way?

This turns heads. But Fox doesn’t move. He knows.

145.


A heavy binder is dropped on Gordon’s desk. A photo slips out, it is of HARVEY DENT.

ADAMSJames! The people need to know. If you walk in and piss all over the people of Gotham, you will be vilified.

Gordon rubs the bridge of his nose. We see it has a bandage.

GORDONThere’s no point in getting upset now, it’s done and dusted.

ADAMS(pointing at binder)

This? I pulled this out of a cleverly hidden archive. What do you think if word gets out?

GORDONI think... you’re not fully prepared for the disarray you’re hoping to cause. Batman, that’s what he does for a living. It’s sad really. I pity him. And I think everybody else should too. And it’s not about who done it, it’s about who cares. I don’t think you’ve ever come to balance the moral worth of an action. And I hope you never do.

ADAMSThat’s not true.

INT. POLICE VAN -- EVENING -- FLASHBACK

Gordon is driving, careens around a corner. Keeping quiet.

ADAMS (V.O.)That night I wondered to myself who else knew. All of MCU? The Mayor?

On the passenger side, Adams struggles with a mental balancing act. Looks at Gordon in disbelief.

ADAMS (V.O.)I questioned, “why would they lie?”

146.

INT. MCU, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- EVENING -- FLASHBACK

A finger is dipped in black powder. Leaves a rolled impression on an ID card. FLASH! A mugshot of FLOYD.

MCU reception. Gordon approaches May.

MAYFound him in an underground bunker. Not-so-anonymous tip.

Floyd is then led out to the hall, gripped by two officers

GORDON(looking)

Name?

MAYLawton, Floyd.

As Floyd is led closer to Gordon. They both make eye contact.

FLOYDJames-

Floyd HEAD BUTTS Gordon. Cracking Gordon’s glasses.

Floyd is wrestled away by the two officers. Before he disappears around a corner:

FLOYDTell Batman he hasn’t won!


GORDONI don’t regret for an instant my choice to ally with Batman.

ADAMSIf you look outside, it’s split right in the middle. Witnesses either love him or hate him. And what about you?

GORDONI trust him.

ADAMSAnd that’s where I find myself in this dilemma.

Adams pulls out a pair of handcuffs. He swallows hard.

147.

INT. OBSERVATION ROOM, MCU, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- FLASHBACK

Seated inside the interrogation room is Floyd.

Gordon watches a full company of detectives filing in the observation room. One speaks out:

DETECTIVEGordon? I have the list of police casualties.

This briefly pains Gordon.

GORDONI’m busy.


Adams tosses the handcuffs on Gordon’s desk. It is immediately followed by his handgun and a BADGE.

ADAMSI can’t trust him. My conscious screams no.

Gordon is speechless as Adams starts for the door.

GORDONAdams. What will you do?

ADAMSWhether or not I’ll bank the chips or blow the whistle? Or on my career?

(off look)Whatever I say will only make Batman a hero. Guess it doesn’t matter what I do.

And with that he slams the door shut. Gordon hangs his head.

INT. GORDON’S CAR -- NIGHT

Gordon drives through empty, dark streets. Street lights glance over his windshield now and then. Every one after the other pounding at his memories...

INSERT CUT: Cloak BILLOWING in his wake, Batman strides through the sewers at an astonishing rate.

Gordon begins to sweat. Then we hear the sonance of a phone ringing, as we CUT TO:

148.

INT. GORDON’S APARTMENT -- NIGHT -- FLASHBACK

Gordon places his bloodied glasses on his night stand. We see his cracked nose is fresh.

He picks up the phone and stares out his window in disbelief.

GORDONBarbara?

BARBARA (V.O.)I miss you.

Gordon suppresses a swirl of emotions.

GORDONI miss you too...

BARBARA (V.O.)Come back to us.

INSERT CUT: Batman crosses over a waterway- the FIRST BROOK.

GORDONI want to...

BARBARA (V.O.)Then get them, Gordon. Do whatever it takes. I don’t want to be afraid anymore... promise me.

INT. SEWER -- NIGHT -- FLASHBACK

GORDON (V.O.)I... I promise.

Darkness. Punctured by a soft light above. Batman stops in front of a ladder. He grips the first handle.

INT. BACK ROOM, RUINED THEATER -- NIGHT -- FLASHBACK

Vivaldi plays in the background.

The walls are thick with decay, and an old, broken piano sits on the floor with only two legs. Batman emerges from a square manhole. A tight squeeze.

A bright good-natured sign hangs on the wall, reading: “WELCOME TO THE QUEEN THEATER.”

149.

INT. RUINED THEATER -- EVENING -- FLASHBACK

Batman pushes forward in the darkness. SHAPES FLASH BEHIND HIM, weights and ropes whip around, CURTAINS ARE PULLED.

SPOTLIGHTS FLASH ON. And Batman finds himself on the STAGE.

Nashton stands in the back. Out of the light. His face in total darkness. He comes forward, whispering, surer and surer of himself:

NASHTONFutility of pacifism; the non-violent leftist collective; and my own belief that violence is the only means by which to achieve progress toward peace; all subjects that are not only timelessly topical, they’re virtually unaddressed when it comes you... Batman.

He holds his cane, strides with it. The two begin to circle each other keeping a distance.

BATMANI protect the people.

NASHTONSince when were you ever the populist?

BATMANA realist.

NASHTON...Who uses violent means. The meanest of means. However, when others use violence it is unorthodox. Why? They too try to prove a point.

BATMANI don’t kill to make myself heard.

NASHTONNo, you instill fear in weaker minds. You take extreme actions and are answerable to nobody.

A spotlight DIES OUT. Lets loose a flurry of sparks.

150.

NASHTON(re: light)

I’ve underestimated the voltage. Oh well.

BATMANYou’ve underestimated me.

NASHTONOf course. Now listen close- it’s not irrelevant: How much gold has been taken from Fort Knox?

Batman refuses to answer. Doesn’t want to play games.

NASHTON (CONT’D)None. If people really want to lock up something, they can. And I’m accusing you of a failure... to hide your identity.

BATMANYou know nothing.

Nashton slips his fingers through his hair. Mock flattered.

NASHTONI know you’re as much as a criminal as those you hunt.

(indicating himself)And I found the intellectual would make the ultimate warrior if only they would take to arms.

(with growing confidence)My position allowed me to take on such a role and based on my observations you have a boon in technology and skill; backed by corporations, that much is clear. My company specializes in industries. My competitors, in industries. Your weaponry, industrial. So I looked, and you know what I found? That man and truth are companions, their roads lie forward and are dialectically cognate. Secrets... are just tangles in the web. First there was that ambitious M&A lawyer. When under pressure and pain, the mind of a man is not easily defensible.

INSERT CUT: The shirtless man with the burlap sack.

151.

NASHTON (CONT’D)Then there was the notion of getting close enough in order for you to be traced.

INSERT CUT: The Library. Deadshot grabs hold of Batman’s leg and places the tracing device under Batman’s foot.

NASHTON (CONT’D)With my eyes in the sky and in not too much time, the Bat returned to his cave. And to seal the deal there was Lucius Fox-

BATMANHe didn’t talk.

NASHTONHow can you be so sure?

A slight smile remains frozen on Nashton’s face.

BATMAN (CONT’D)Enough. What do you know?

NASHTONAfraid? Who is Batman? Please. Revealing the riddle would prove it worthless without a proper tribunal.

Nashton holds up his wrists.

NASHTON (CONT’D)So arrest me... Prince of Gotham.

Without warning, the auditorium doors SMASH OPEN. Walking into the light is BLACK MASK.

Nashton is stunned. Terrified. Batman is equally surprised.

BLACK MASKThe things I’ve done, to be here today.

INT. GORDON’S APARTMENT -- NIGHT -- FLASHBACK

Gordon sits in an old, dusty armchair. His hands tremble as he attempts to speak into the phone:

GORDONThere are crimes that you’ve helped to solve because of who you are.

152.

(MORE)

I’m asking you right now... to end all of it.

Could he be speaking to someone other than Batman?

INT. GORDON’S CAR -- NIGHT

Gordon blankly looks through the street. Tears on his face.


Black Mask gradually goes up the flight of stairs onto the stage. His whole body suffers from a slight tremor. His hands SHAKE, rattling a HANDGUN.

BLACK MASKWhat did I miss?

NASHTONWhy would it matter, speaking with you takes long to realize you’re full of wind with relatively little substance.

Black Mask closes the apex. Points the gun at Nashton’s head.

NASHTONInteresting. It seems we all want something from each other but none of us are willing to give it.

A second spotlight BURSTS. Leaving long shadows on the stage.

NASHTONBetter be quick, else be surrounded by darkness; the stuff that nightmares are made of. The very same that feeds Batman.

Black Mask steps forward. Batman blocks his view raising his hands, palms open.

BATMANNo.

BLACK MASKYou heard the man.

BATMANI heard nothing more than a crazy person who needs to be locked up.

153.

GORDON (CONT'D)

BLACK MASK(walking closer)

I agree, he’s just a frail, semblance of a man, who’s outstayed his welcome.

EXT. GORDON HOME -- NIGHT

Gordon steps out of his car. Slowly approaches the front door to his home.


Black Mask’s hand violently shakes. He grabs it, fighting it.

BATMANYou’re shaking.

BLACK MASKNo need to be worried about me. Even if it is death, I am unafraid.

NASHTONYou realize, no one knows you even exist...

BLACK MASK(nods)

People will succumb to demands, and they would never know why or how. That is the future of crime.

NASHTONValiant try, but if you have to go through such great lengths to explain something, you’re probably reaching.

BLACK MASK(to Nashton)

You spineless-- All you do is hide behind your social position.

NASHTONMe, hiding? Yoo hoo!

(looks around)I’m not wearing the mask! Obviously clarity is being avoided, because you’re stuck in this delusion about your Society-

154.

BLACK MASKThe Society elaborates a fury against the elite.

NASHTONFaceless corporations.

BLACK MASKAgainst people! With chronic greed, often manipulating, exploiting, and violating the rights of others. Criminal behaviour.

(laughingly)Much like our sociopathic friend, The Batman.

Batman’s face contorts. A subtle fit of rage.

A THIRD spotlight dies out.

NASHTONMr. Mask. In reality, all you’ve done is start the machine that I created. Politics, really. Business! Speed of money. We’re in the middle of a global currency war and during public crisis, corporations spend a lot, and when profits are this high-

Black Mask SHOOTS Nashton in the foot. Nashton doesn’t immediately fall. He stumbles with his cane.

BLACK MASKI said I would start with the legs.

Batman dives to cover Nashton. Places his hand over his utility belt, ready to strike.

NASHTONOh! I could tell by the look in your eyes you’d want to kill me. If I could tear off your mask...

(to Batman)But Batman won’t allow you to get close.

INT. GORDON HOME -- NIGHT

Barbara looks up, sees Gordon in the doorway. He nods, and she joins him. They hug, and all’s right with the world...

155.


BLACK MASKSave you? Batman’s only pressing order of business is to stop me, since I solely know the detonation codes to the bombs. You have nothing. You are nothing.

NASHTONI’ve deduced Batman’s identity with certitude.

BLACK MASKBats, is that true?

Batman keeps quiet.

BLACK MASK(to Nashton)

What’s the information worth to you anyway?

NASHTONPlenty. Proof of my preserverance.

BLACK MASKUh huh. You’ve set a very open ended plan. And why would he save you?

A long silence. Nashton clears his throat.

NASHTONAmongst us? He’s of lesser evil.

BLACK MASKFor a smart guy you ain’t too smart. Hitting you now... would give everyone peace of mind.

Black Mask levels his aim... And time seems to slow:

-Batman tenses. His breathing tight and thin.

-Nashton’s face is loose. Locks eyes with Black Mask.

-Black Mask trembles. Can’t hold the gun for too long.

-The heat between the three grow more intense.

-Nashton is scanning, his gaze fevered.

-The other two grip their weapons tightly.

156.

Then, the inevitable:

NASHTONWhat did the neurosurgery patient say after the brain transplant?

(beat)“Wait, I changed my mind.”

Black Mask aims his pistol at the roof, SHOOTS the light above him. Shrouding his side of the stage in DARKNESS.

A single spotlight remains on Nashton, as he looks- Batman has sprung like a cat-

A SERIES OF BRIGHT FLASHES- A mixture of Batman’s stun grenades and Black Mask’s GUNFIRE.

A bullet hits Nashton square in the chest. He falls, winded.

He gasps for breath, clutching pathetically at his chest. He senses a figure approaching. It limps towards him.

NASHTON(wheezing)

Batman...

And indeed it is Batman who comes into the light. Nashton reaches for him.

NASHTONGet away from me!

Batman hesitates.

BATMANYou’re shot.

NASHTONBlood. On your hands.

BATMANI can help.

NASHTONAnd be locked in a cage? The riddle... needs to be kept. No one can know. No one, Mr. Wayne.

And with his last bit of strength, smiling:

NASHTONMaybe... Maybe I am crazy.

157.

EXT. RUINED THEATER -- EVENING -- FLASHBACK

Black Mask forges through the back exit of the building. As the day runs out, he retreats through the deserted streets.


We see Gordon’s nose still bleeding.

GORDONAre we ready?

A detective presses a “Record” button.

INT. INTERROGATION ROOM, MCU, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- FLASHBACK

A seated Floyd crosses his arms.

FLOYDBatman is like a magician on a stage. His form of justice grants a clever illusion of being bullet-proof. And when people complain about his attitude, it affords him a luxury of accusing them of being irrational. But really, how does Batman stop a killer who would much rather die than be stopped?


May looks to Gordon. Senses his displeasure.

MAYWe don’t need hear this.

GORDONI do.

INT. HIDEOUT -- NIGHT -- FLASHBACK

Hades adjusts his holster under his coat. Checks his cuff links, then-- BANG. The door opens wide, and standing before the doorframe is Black Mask, waving for Hades to come closer.

HADESWhere’ve you been? It’s a mess out there.

158.

BLACK MASKThat’s good. It means we haven’t lost.

Together they leave the hideout.

EXT. HIDEOUT -- NIGHT -- FLASHBACK -- CONTINUOUS

HADES(closing the door behind)

You’re talking about the last bomb?

A white van turns a corner and enters the ally. It stops, and the windows roll down. Behind the wheel is a hulking masked thug.

THUGBoss, cops are all over the junction.

(beat)What if... if we call it quits?

Black Mask stares at the thug for a moment, breathes hard. Then he leans the barrel of his gun on the car door window.

And pulls the trigger.

Black Mask walks at a brisk pace towards the back of the van.

BLACK MASK(to Hades, in disgust)

The fact that the question was even asked...

He opens the back door and sighs relief. He moves his fingers over the bomb like a prodigy over piano keys.

BLACK MASK (CONT’D)But what do I know.

Behind him, Hades aims his gun.

HADESNot much. Here’s my regards, from Commissioner Gordon.

Black Mask slumps his shoulders.

BANG BANG BANG.

159.

INT. INTERROGATION ROOM, MCU, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- FLASHBACK

His voice is thin, whispered, tired. But it’s never felt so good to tell others the meaning of his life:

FLOYDThe trick is to not mind killing, and to expect dying.

INT. SOMEWHERE DARK -- CONTINUOUS

A UTILITY BELT SLAPS TOGETHER. A CAPE flaps into place.

INT. ROOF, GOTHAM CENTRAL -- NIGHT -- FLASHBACK

Gordon slips on gloves as he walks out to the roof. He pulls on a huge LEVER. The roof lights up.

He sits on a bench with a grunt, without his glasses he squints into the night.

GORDONI’ve been thinking.

He looks up to the sky.

GORDON (CONT’D)That this entire time we should let justice give you a chance. But I think... It’s actually the other way around.

Batman LANDS nearby.

GORDONYou know, sometimes I question myself.

(losing focus)Things need to have a reason. Or is it purpose? I dunno. I need a drink.

Batman has not moved, a statue in the dark. He waits beat before speaking:

BATMANReason is the cause of all things. Everything has a reason. Purpose is much more the end result. Not everything happens with purpose.

160.

A moment later he shifts closer... begins to walk and speak at the same time:

BATMANI trust you, because I know every facet of you. I am convinced that together we shall satisfy our own purpose... So tonight, I will make an exception-

Batman TAKES OFF HIS COWL. Gordon vacantly stares at Bruce’s face. Stone cold.

Gordon slowly looks away and closes his eyes.

GORDONI can never be like you.

BATMANWhat do you mean?

GORDONYour whole life is a quest to restore meaning.

These words spark something in the back of Gordon’s mind. He opens his eyes. Sucks in a breath.

GORDONAnd me... I’m not a good person.

A faint cry escapes him.

GORDON (CONT’D)You’re the real hero. And I’m almost glad it ain’t me. I don’t think it can ever be me.

BATMANYou are a hero Gordon.

Gordon fights back tears.

GORDONI don’t want to be afraid, but I am.

BATMANIf you want to know the truth, I feel afraid all the time.

161.

GORDONNo. Afraid of being truthful. I feel like I can never be as transparent as you are to me, like at this moment. I have some-

BATMANThere’s no need.

As Gordon winces, Batman puts on his cowl.

BATMANKeep reminding yourself, “the dawn is coming.”

(beat)Believe that it will.

With that, he takes out his grappling hook and DISAPPEARS.

Gordon stands up. His gaze following Batman as far as he can see. Then nothing.

A few moments later May opens the door to the roof. She walks slowly onto the garden and gives Gordon his glasses.

MAYHeres your extra pair. Funny how I never noticed how thick your glasses were.

She gives a delicate smile. He shrugs.

MAY (CONT’D)Can you even see two feet in front of you?

GORDONBlind as a bat.

Gordon puts on his glasses and looks up, taking in the night air...

And up high in the sky, shining bright: THE BAT SIGNAL.

CUT TO BLACK.

END.

162.

The Legend of Gotham

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