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