THE GOLDEN AGE OF SUPERMAN

Comic Hero. Contemporary Civic Leaders.

Written and directed by

Dan Wyatt, Jr.

Produced and Hosted by

John F. Barber

CC BY-NC-ND 4.0
(https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)
Creative Commons Attribution-Non-Commercial-NoDerivs 4.0 International
©2025 Re-Imagined Radio. All rights reserved (except those granted by the Creative Commons license)

Re-Imagined Radio
Season 03, Episode 02

Final draft

THE GOLDEN AGESUPERMAN

Comic hero. Contemporary civic leaders.

Re-Imagined Radio
Season 03, Episode 02
Final Draft

Premier broadcast: Jun 18, 2015

Written, Produced, Hosted by John F. Barber

Synopsis
An homage to The Golden Age of Superman written and directed by Dan Wyatt. Jr. The characters are voiced by leaders of the Vancouver, Washington, community. A live performance at Kiggins Theatre.

Credits
Original script by Dan Wyatt, Jr.

Directed by Dan Wyatt, Jr.

Produced and Hosted by John F. Barber

Color Code
Yellow highlighted text = sound effect(s), either pre-recorded or live.

text example = text that could be deleted as needed.

Magenta highlighted text with strike through = text deleted for episode timing

MUSIC = pre-recorded

MUSIC = bespoke, created for this episode

SCENE 1 (LIVE AUDIO) - EXT. CITY - DAY
SFX: HIGH WIND BLOWING
SMALL CHILD
Look up in the Sky!
SFX: CROWD SURPRISE WALLA
FEMALE BYSTANDER
It's a giant bird!
MALE BYSTANDER
It's a plane!
SFX: A LOUD SWOOSH, FLYING BY LIKE A BULLET.
ANNOUNCER
No, it's Superman!
MUSIC: TRIUMPHANT MARCH BEGINS AND PLAYS UNDER ANNOUNCER.
ANNOUNCER
Yes. It's Superman, the Man of Steel that was first seen in June of 1938 on those now rare pages of Action Comics #1. That alien visitor from a strange planet Krypton, long since destroyed. Here on Earth those Kryptonian cells charged by our yellow sun giving him abilities beyond that of mortal men. A being no larger than an ordinary man but possessed of powers and abilities never before realized on Earth: able to leap into the air an eighth of a mile at a single bound, hurtle a 20-story building with ease, race a high-powered bullet to its target, who can change the course of mighty rivers, and rend solid steel in his bare hands as though it were paper.
Those familiar words from radio, television, Saturday matinee picture shows and even those Sunday morning funnies read over breakfast played out for you. Now, before a live theatrical audience. And speaking of breakfast, the most important meal of the day ... a word from our sponsor.
SCENE 2 - BROADCAST STUDIO
WHEATIES COMMERCIAL
ANNOUNCER
And now that show you wait for all week on WMET.
MUSIC: SIGNATURE SHOW INTRO
ANNOUNCER
"The Echo of Metropolis!" And your host ...
AUDIENCE
Lois! Lane!
SFX: EXCITED APPLAUSE
LOIS
Hello Metropolis. And hello to you all out there listening in your homes. Welcome to "The Echo of Metropolis." As a reporter I wanted to reach out to a broader audience. While I continue to write for the Daily Planet keeping you informed in print we come into your living room, live and direct via the magic of radio. To start things off tonight we have a very special guest, familiar to all and a savior to many. Superman.
SFX: MORE APPLAUSE AND SCREAMS.
LOIS
Now as many of you know, Superman recently announced he will be leaving his adopted home here in hopes of exploring life beyond our dear planet.
SFX: AUDIENCE SIGHS AND SYMPATHETIC MOANS.
LOIS
So we have him here tonight to explain his recent decision and what he may be looking for in his next adventure on other worlds. Now let's bring out our guest. Superman.
SFX: POLITE APPLAUSE
SUPERMAN
Hello everyone.
LOIS
Superman, we know your time is short so we'll get down to it. Please tell the audience here in Metropolis and those tuning in from around the country. Why leave Earth, why now?
SUPERMAN
Well Lois, as many may know I've been here practically my whole life. I came here in a spaceship sent from a doomed world. My parents knew that I could help protect this world. The reality of their fate and their love for their son is what inspired them to send me here. To help, to care for others.
LOIS
And so you have, Earth would not be the same without you. (PAUSE, REGAIN COMPOSURE) Many would hope you would stay.
SUPERMAN
I appreciate that Lois. In response to your question though, my father, my father here on Earth, one of the things he taught me was to leave a place better than you found it. I believe I have done that. I began to see it not long after I first revealed myself as Superman.
LOIS
What did you see?
SUPERMAN
Not long after we first met, you remember that interview on your terrace. I was flying over the city ...
SCENE 3 - EXT. INDUSTRIAL SHIPPING YARD - DAY
SFX: SLIGHT WIND, CITY SCAPE FROM A MILE UP.
SUPERMAN
(LISTENING FOR ANYONE THAT MIGHT NEED HELP.)
SFX: AN EXPLOSION. A FAINT CRACKLING THAT GROWS LOUDER AS SUPERMAN APPROACHES, IT'S A MASSIVE FIRE.
GUY
Look out!
SFX: ANOTHER EXPLOSION, THEN ANOTHER. SUPERMAN LANDS, IT IS PANDEMONIUM.
MEN
(YELLING) Look out! Watch it over there! Help me with this!
SUPERMAN
You there, what happened?
GUY
Oil train derailed! One of the tankers was pierced when it fell. That set off a chain reaction!
SUPERMAN
Go over there. That man crawling from the engine. Help him while I put this fire out.
GUY
But how, this fire is too big?!
SUPERMAN
Just help that engineer, I'll take care of the fire.
SFX: FOOTSTEPS RUNNING AWAY ACROSS THE GRAVEL YARD.
SUPERMAN
Hey up there in the crane, swing that metal plate around and drop it in the river ... just on the other side of the tracks!
CRANE OPERATOR
Sure thing Superman!
SFX: HUGE CRANE SWIVELS, GEARS GRINDING AND METAL CREAKING. A TENSION CABLE RESONATES. THEN ...
SFX: A HUGE SPLASH. SUPERMAN FLIES TO IT. RUSHING WATER OVER THE HUGE METAL OBJECT.
SUPERMAN
(straining slightly) Just need to maneuver this piece into position.
SFX: WATERFLOW CHANGES IN FREQUENCY, METAL HITS DIRT. FIRE SWELLS.
GUY
You okay Ross?
ENGINEER
Yeah ung, just twisted my leg, help me up!
GUY
Look at Superman, what's he doing?!
ENGINEER
It appears he's going to put out the fire with that massive steel plate.
GUY
How's that going to work!?
ENGINEER
You know how they say he can change the course of mighty rivers? We are about to find out!
GUY
Look at that! He's using the piece of steel to trench out the river bank. By George he's doing it!
SFX: GREAT VOLUMES OF EARTH MOVING, RUSHING FLOW OF WATER CHANGING IN FREQUENCY AND FILLING IN OVER DRY EARTH. WATER COLLIDES WITH FIRE AND NEAR MOLTEN METAL. STEAM AND HISSING. FIRE DIES DOWN AND EVENTUALLY SMOLDERS. DRAMATIC MUSIC ACCOMPANIES.
ENGINEER
Well I guess the river runs through the train yard now.
GUY
Yeah, now have a new waterfront! Way to go Superman!
SFX: LOUD THUMP ON THE GROUND AS SUPERMAN LANDS WITH STEEL PLATE. IT FALLS TO THE GROUND WITH A LOUD CRASH ONTO OTHER METAL.
GUY
Superman you saved not only the men in the port-yard, but an entire community! Any more of those oil cars blew and Metropolis would be a disaster area, instead of a thriving city. Thank you!
SUPERMAN
No need to thank me. Just doing what was necessary as anyone would. Perhaps our community should find a safer way to transport a liquid as volatile as oil.
ENGINEER
May be. I'll mention it to the head honchos at the port! They can have a meeting about it.
SUPERMAN
If you don't, I will. Take care of that leg.
SFX: TAKE OFF SWOOSH.
SCENE 4 - EXT. CITY - NIGHT
SFX: LOFTY WINDS ABOVE THE CLOUDS.
WOMAN
(SCREAMS-FAINT, HEARD FROM AFAR)
SUPERMAN
What's that? Someone's in trouble!
SFX: A SUDDEN AND LOUD SWOOSH.
WOMAN
Help! Help! (GROWS LOUDER)
SFX: QUICK END TO WOOSH AND A HEAVY THUMP ON THE PAVEMENT.
WOMAN
Let go of me!
SUPERMAN
Unhand her this instant.
THUG
She has something that belongs to me!
SUPERMAN
Whether that is the case or not, that is no reason for improper treatment of a lady.
WOMAN
(GIVES SMALL GRUNT AS SHE PULLS HERSELF AWAY FROM THUGS GRIP)
THUG
(GUFFAW) Well it matters little Superman, you'll meet your doom sooner or later.
SFX: FOOTSTEPS RUNNING AWAY.
SUPERMAN
Miss ... are you alright, will you require any medical treatment?
WOMAN
Oh, not now, but if you want to fly me over to Metro Health for a full checkup that would be okay.
SFX: POLICE SIREN. VEHICLE APPROACHES, STOPS AND DOOR OPENS.
OFFICER
We came as soon as someone called in, but it looks like you beat us to it Superman! Is everything alright?
SUPERMAN
It is now officer, just frightened off a common thug.
SFX: SCANNING SOUND, LIKE AN ORGANIC X-RAY.
SUPERMAN
Ma'am you appear to be okay. I can't see any broken bones, but if you'd like, the officer could transport you to the nearest hospital. (PAUSE) Ma'am? You can let go, everything is alright now.
WOMAN
Oh. Yes, Superman, sorry ... I was phased there for a moment. Thank you for coming to my rescue.
SUPERMAN
Not a problem at all. Well I must be off. Officer. Ma'am.
SFX: TAKE OFF WOOSH.
MUSIC: INTERLUDE.
SCENE 5 - INT. CAVERNOUS BUNKER
SFX: THICK METAL VAULT DOOR OPENS. SHUTS. SERIES OF HEAVY DUTY LOCKING MECHANISMS LATCH. TWO SETS OF FOOTSTEPS APPROACH. LADIES HEELS AND MEN'S BOOT.
LEX
My dear, you did what I sent you for?
JENNY (WOMAN)
I did as you said Lex. I stuck that thing to his cape.
LEX
It's a tracking device my dear. With my hyper-locator device now I can follow Superman's every move.
SFX: SLAPS WOODEN CASED DEVICE
JENNY
Tommy didn't have to be so rough though.
TOMMY (THUG)
Just making it believable! Superman's no dummy.
SFX: SWITCH FLIP, DEVICE DIALED TO TUNE IN CONSISTENT BEEPING LIKE A HEART MONITOR.
LEX
That caped boy scout is a fool! Even Jenny here can hoodwink him with that performance of hers. Now wherever he goes I can see what he's up to. Look here, he seems to have stopped downtown. Soon I shall send my lexbot to deal with him. (CALLS OUT) David.
DAVID
(robotic voice) I am here.
LEX
Come David, your first task as my creation will be to deal with this alien pest. But first I must program you.
SFX: BUTTON PRESSING AND PUNCH CARD FEED INTO MACHINE.
LEX
Tommy, you and the dame go see what building our unwanted alien is in. Bring the tracking device and show her how to work it.
SCENE 6 - EXT. CITY BACK ALLEY - DAY
SFX: SUPERMAN LANDS IN BACK ALLEY.
SUPERMAN
Now just to change back, hopefully Perry White won't notice I was out for lunch too long.
SFX: A QUICK CLOTHES FITTING AND WALKS OFF. A MOMENT LATER TWO SETS OF FOOTSTEPS APPROACH.
TOMMY
The device says he's here. But we are the only ones here in this alley.
SFX: CONSISTENT BEEP.
TOMMY
The tracking device says he should still be here.
JENNY
Perhaps he's in this building here genius.
SFX: SHE SLAPS HAND ON THE BRICK WALL.
JENNY
I'll radiograph Lex.
SFX: CLICK
JENNY
Well we found your wonderboy, it appears he went into the Daily Planet.
LEX
(THROUGH SMALL RADIO SPEAKER) That rag of rubbish!? I suppose that computes, always touting Superman's accomplishments. Printer of lies! They lie in bed with a deceiver! I shall take care of that editor while I am at it!
SFX: SQUELCH
LEX
Good work Tommy. You too doll face.
SCENE 7 - INT. NEWS OFFICE
SFX: TYPEWRITERS CLACKING AWAY. SOME OCCASIONAL MUTTERS AROUND THE NEWSROOM.
REPORTER LOU
Heya Kent? How was lunch?
CLARK
It was swell Lou.
JIMMY
Mr Kent, golly!
CLARK
Oh hello there Jimmy.
JIMMY
Chief wants to see you in his office yesterday!
SFX: ROOM GOES SILENT.
CLARK
(HEAVY SIGH) Okay Jimmy, thank you.
JIMMY
Good luck Mr. Kent, I'm off to get chief some coffee!
REPORTER LOU
Hey get me something from that Java House wouldya Jimmy?
JIMMY
Sorry Lou, it's on the chief's dime.
REPORTER LOU
Well La tee da!
SCENE 8 - INT. QUIET OFFICE
SFX: KNOCK ON THE GLASS PANE DOOR.
CLARK
You wanted to see me Mr. White?
PERRY
Kent where have you been?! We have deadlines here at the Daily Planet, and I've got a hot one.
CLARK
Yes, chief, I ...
PERRY
A group of astronomers are giving a big talk at the science center and I need you down there to cover it. This is big Kent! They've discovered some sort of opening in outer space that can transport life from another world.
SFX: DOOR OPENS SUDDENLY
JIMMY
Here's your coffee chief.
PERRY
About time Olsen! Get in here. We always need coffee around the news room son. It provides direction.
JIMMY
Like a compass sir?
PERRY
Yes, you could say that. It also gives us drive, a real force for our engines.
CLARK
I believe that's called torque Mr. White.
PERRY
Never correct an editor Kent. Now where's my special mug?
JIMMY
Darn chief, I dropped it this morning and it broke.
PERRY
Great Ceasars ghost Olsen! What did I tell you about doing stupid stuff?
JIMMY
Uh, don't do it chief?
PERRY
Don't do stupid stuff! You getting this Kent?!
CLARK
I sure am Mr. White. Why not use one of your other mugs, remember we ordered a whole case of them last month.
PERRY
Ah yes. We need more quick reporters like you Kent.
SFX: POURS A CUP AND TAKES A SMALL SLURP.
PERRY
Finally, a good cup of coffee around here! Is this from the little French friend of yours up on 19th?
JIMMY
Mon ami? Ah. Oui.
PERRY
(GRUNT OF APPROVAL) Now Kent about this cosmic phenomenon business, we are going to need a real headline grabber for this, something the readers will really latch onto.
KENT
Sir? A space bridge?
PERRY
Something along those lines. Now go to it man!
SFX: CLARK WALKS OUT OF THE OFFICE.
PERRY
Space? Bridge? Cosmic Bridge? Bridge, bridge?
JIMMY
How 'bout "The Cosmic Crossing?"
PERRY
Just get the pictures Olsen!
SFX: JIMMY RUSHES OUT.
MUSIC: SWELLS
SCENE 9 - EXT. CITY - DAY
SFX: REPORTER AND CROWD WALLA. FLASH BULBS SNAPPING. PENCILS SCRATCHING IN NOTEBOOKS.
CLARK
The astronomers should be out anytime Jimmy, got film loaded in your camera?
JIMMY
I sure do Mr. Kent and brought an extra roll to boot. Hey there's Ms. Lane! Ms. Lane!
SFX: HEELS ON PAVEMENT APPROACH EXCITEDLY.
LOIS
Hello Jimmy. Clark, what are you doing here?! Did chief send you?! Domestic is my beat. You are the foreign correspondent.
CLARK
This may be a bit of both. It looks like they are about to begin Lois, let's just get a good story for the Planet. Together.
SFX: SLIGHT MICROPHONE FEEDBACK. TAP TAP.
LEAD SCIENTIST BURKE
Ladies and gentleman we are here to tell you about a discovery that is just as exciting as when first learned of Superman. That there IS other life beyond our world.
LOIS
You see Superman is always relevant to announcements of this nature.
CLARK
I'm sure Superman would be here if he were needed Lois.
LEAD SCIENTIST BURKE
This new information may even relate to the man of steel himself.
LOIS
Hmph!
LEAD SCIENTIST BURKE
Approximately three months ago, using our high powered telescopes we viewed what appeared to be a crossing, if you will, a connection through to another dimension.
REPORTER LOU
Question! How do you know this connection is through to another dimension?
LEAD SCIENTIST BURKE
We know for two reasons, first there is a known rift in this portion of the galaxy, that all telescopes could not view beyond and we speculate that no known spacecraft could span. Also known as a black hole. Now there is an observed difference. We can now see light passing through this rift, from beyond. A new theory some scientists are referring to as redshift. Secondly ... we've had a visitor come across this cosmic rift into our world.
SFX: CROWD GASPS AND GENERAL EXCITEMENT WALLA. PICTURE SNAPPING INCREASES.
LEAD SCIENTIST BURKE
Now there's nothing to be alarmed about, the creature appears to be completely benign. Despite the fact that it is quite strange, it seems to have no hostile intentions.
LOIS
Pardon me, Lois Lane with the Daily Planet. This creature, where is it being kept? Where does it come from?
LEAD SCIENTIST BURKE
In due time, but our first concern is to determine more about the nature of this...
SFX: MICROPHONE FEEDS BACK SLIGHTLY AS SOMEONE ELSE STEPS UP.
GENERAL HANSEN
Pardon me Mr. Burke, if I may. I'm General Hanson. I represent the office of the president. Given the nature of this phenomenon, it's the position of the president ... (CONTINUES TO TALK UNDER JIMMY AND LOIS CONVERSATION) that further studies will be required as to inform presidential action and the next steps in regard to the development of the US space program. We will continue advising the scientific team that made this discovery and ...
JIMMY
Gee Mr. Kent, I wonder what Superman ...Mr. Kent? Seems odd for him to leave in the middle of a sensational story like this. Don't you think Ms. Lane?
LOIS
Don't worry about Clark getting the story Jimmy. (UNDER HER BREATH) He always seems to BE the story.
SCENE 10 - INT. CAVERNOUS BUNKER
SFX: GEN. HANSEN'S VOICE IN LIMITED FREQUENCY COMING THROUGH A VINTAGE RADIO SPEAKER.
GENERAL HANSEN
... as further studies by the astronomy team continue not only with the alien creature but the Cosmic Rift Connector which the president has taken a supreme interest in, given the proximity to ...
SFX: LEX TURNS OFF HIS RADIO AND SIGNAL IS LOST.
LEX
Blast! What this city needs ... another alien masquerading around as a friend to its citizens! I shall see to its demise as I will Superman. Our native sons know what is best for us. The faithful adherents who were born and raised right here. Tommy!
TOMMY
Uh yeah, boss.
LEX
Tommy, bring out David, it's time the world witness a true hero. American made, automated by ingenuity and the true industrial spirit!
SFX: AUTOMATON GEARS, AND WHIRS, BEEPS AND BOOPS.
LEX
Oh David, my finest creation, we need no other. Sending a human to do what an automaton (ah-tom-uh-tawn) can accomplish without error. Soon this city and then the world will know what true efficiency and security looks like. Robotic controlled perfection ...
TOMMY
Here's your remote boss.
SFX: BUTTONS CLICKED, A DIAL IS TURNED.
LEX:
... in the palm of my hand!
SFX: ELECTRONIC SOUNDS GROW LOUDER AND IN COMPLEXITY AND TRANSFIGURE INTO A THREATENING LIGHTNING SIZZLE!
SCENE 11 - INT. APARTMENT
SFX: SOFT 30'S VINTAGE MUSIC PLAYS IN THE BACKGROUND. DINNERWARE SHIFTS ABOUT.
LOIS
I'm glad you could join me for dinner. No trouble in the city, people who need rescuing?
CLARK
I don't mind taking time out for you Lois. This dinner smells delicious.
LOIS
Artiste of words by day, culinary scientist by night. I can do it all.
CLARK
I don't doubt that. (PAUSE) You know my father was a scientist. He was the first one who discovered that Krypton would be doomed if nothing was done. Although he had never given reason for the senate to distrust him, they denied requests to do anything to avert the tragedy. They said there was no problem and instead doomed everyone while they did nothing.
LOIS
Senseless. I'm sorry.
CLARK
It's a tragedy, but it's a world I never knew. While I have regret over what could have been, I don't entirely fault those who didn't know better.
LOIS
You don't?!
CLARK
No. They were only doing what they thought was best. I don't believe they were destructive, just ignorant. Unwilling to consider another point of view doesn't make one evil, just foolish and short sighted. I just try to learn from it. And besides, if the scenario were different, I would have never known this world. Loved by my parents here on Earth, never would have met you. Lois.
LOIS
Oh Clark, I am so thankful to have you. I mean, we all are. (PAUSE) Do you think we could ever let anyone know about you? About us?
CLARK
I wouldn't dare risk it, not even for the chance to meet a Kryptonian.
MUSIC: ROMANTIC MUSIC SWELLS. CROSSFADES INTO A MILITARISTIC MARCH.
SCENE 12 - INT. HALLWAY
MUSIC: MILITARY MARCH CONTINUES...
SFX: GROUP OF FOOTSTEPS DOWN AN AUSTERE ECHOEY HALLWAY. ALL CLICK CLACK OF LEATHER SOLED SHOES EXCEPT ONE SET OF RUBBER LIKE SOLES THAT CARRY SOME GIRTH.
GENERAL
Right this way, Superman, thank you for coming so soon after the public address at the science center. And thank you for showing discretion about this facility.
SFX: BEEPS OF AN ELECTRONIC LOCK KEYPAD FOLLOWED BY MECHANICAL SOUNDS DEEP IN THE BUILDING FOUNDATIONS MIXED WITH ELECTRICAL AND COMPUTERIZED RELEASES.
SUPERMAN
I appreciate the invitation General, but you know I could enter here anytime. I may not be able to see though this lead door, but pulling it from its hinges would not be a problem.
GENERAL
The construction of this quadrant wasn't to prevent disclosure to you Superman.
The lead lining was meant to protect you from anything that could do you harm.
SUPERMAN
Protect me, General?
GENERAL
The being says it has something from Krypton. So we sequestered him here. We also encased the object just to be safe for your visit.
SFX: A THICK METAL DOOR'S BOLTS SLIDE AWAY AND THE THREE TON SLAB SLIDES OPEN. A LOW WHIR EMERGES.
SCENE 13 - INT. OFFICE.
SFX: A QUIET ROOM, WITH A SMALL GROUP. SOMEONE CLEARS THEIR THROAT.
GENERAL
(SMALL SPEAKER) He's going in now Mr. President.
PRESIDENT
Thank you General.
SFX: SWITCH FLIPS OFF WITH A SQUELCH.
CABINET PERSON
Mr. President what is the status?
PRESIDENT
All right people. Superman is about to meet the only other extra-planetary being we know of within our borders. As you have been briefed ... all we know at this point is the being is a non-combative and is carrying an object which is unknown to us.
We've had limited communication up to now, but we hope that Superman can faire better as he is also an off-world being.
The bigger picture, however is how this discovery in outer space will affect the development of our new space station adjacent to the portal. The public may not be aware of the impact the cosmic crossing or the space station will have on our way of life. Will it serve as a way station for those traveling across the rift? Will it have too much traffic that will tax resources? If other beings crossing over are aggressive, will the station be under attack? Will we need to re-purpose it to be a strategic defense station rather than a recreational and scientific one?
These are questions to scenarios that need to be determined. You have the data and more will be delivered as it becomes known, but I need each department running scenarios yesterday. That is all.
SFX: CHAIRS AND PAPERS SHUFFLE AND GROUP FILES OUT OF SMALL ROOM. AFTER A MOMENT SWITCH IS FLIPPED.
PRESIDENT
General. Progress report?
GENERAL
Superman is just about to engage the being sir.
SCENE 14 - INT. UNDERGROUND BUNKER
SFX: HEAVY GEARS FOLLOWED BY SUDDEN METALLIC THUMPS. AND AGAIN. THE ROBOT WALKS.
LEX
Right this way David, right to the launch pad.
DAVID
Yes, lexbot obey.
LEX
Now to program the coordinates. Tommy, the hyper-locator, bring it here!
SFX: FLIP OF THE SWITCH, LOCATION MONITOR BEEPS.
LEX
Still in Metropolis ... downtown ... at the federal building. Of course! Why not introduce one alien to another. And now I will introduce my lexbot to them. Pity they won't all be friends. (LAUGHS MANIACALLY). David what is your program?
DAVID
Destroy alien life form, then destroy Superman.
LEX
Ignition in 5...4...3...2...1. Destroy!
SFX: BUTTON PRESS. SMALL ROCKET ENGINES FIRE, SENDING THE LEXBOT FROM THE LAB IN SEARCH OF HIS TARGET.
SCENE 15 - INT. LARGE STEEL ROOM
SFX: LOW WHIR. SUPERMAN'S FOOTSTEPS CAUTIOUSLY APPROACH.
SUPERMAN
(ANXIOUS) Are you from Krypton?!
BEING
(STILTED AND NOT QUITE FAMILIAR WITH ENGLISH LANGUAGE) I am not from Krypton, but I have been to that world.
SUPERMAN
Why did you come here? Do you know anything about the crossing that brought you here?
BEING
I came to bring this. The physics of how I traveled here are beyond your comprehension as an earthling..
SUPERMAN
I am also from Krypton.
BEING
Yes, but here is where you have been formed. I've followed your progress. I traced you here.
SFX: SUPERMAN TAPS THICK GLASS OBJECT.
SUPERMAN
What is this?
BEING
This ... is another world. A piece of another world. You're world.
SUPERMAN
I don't understand, Krypton is extinct.
BEING
Before your home system was destroyed an aggressor miniaturized one of it's cities, encapsulated it and took it off world. I acquired it with hope of returning it. Unfortunately Krypton is no more. So I have brought them to you.
SUPERMAN
Them? There's people in there?!
BEING
Affirmative and I created the connection across the cosmic rift to return it to you. Once I found where you were dwelling...
SFX: A THUNDEROUS EXPLOSION.
GENERAL
Battle posts! We are under attack! All units open fire on that thing!
LEXBOT
Destroy. Destroy.
SFX: GUNS FIRING THEN AN EXPLOSION
SCENE 16 - INT. OFFICE
SFX: GUNFIRE DIES DOWN. CRUMBLING AND MEN SHOUTING IN AFTERMATH IN THE BACKGROUND. ALL COMING THROUGH SMALL SPEAKER.
GENERAL
(RADIO SPEAKER) Mr. President? (OUT OF BREATH)
PRESIDENT
Good Saint Christopher! General what is happening!
GENERAL
We were attacked sir. Some sort of automaton (ah-tom-uh-tawn).
PRESIDENT
A what?
GENERAL
A robot Mr President. Blasted it's way in through the roof. It killed the alien being.
A few of our men are down. Would have killed everyone, but it attacked Superman after the alien. He destroyed it of course. (PAUSE) We, Superman and the alien, were targeted sir.
PRESIDENT
But how?! That was a top secret facility? Who was behind the attack?
GENERAL
We found a marking on what was left of the robot. Lexcorp. Industrialist Lex Luthor's organization. Also, when we scanned Superman for possible radiation from the attack we found something. A device. We think it may have given off a tracking beacon.
PRESIDENT
Where is Superman now?
GENERAL
He, uh, left Mr. President. Said he had something to do before he searches for Lex Luthor. We are assembling a unit now awaiting Superman's signal for when he finds him.
(PAUSE) Sir. There's one more thing. He took the object that the alien had. Apparently it was a piece of Krypton. A city. According to the being, a miniaturized city.
SCENE 17 - EXT. COUNTRY - DAY
SFX: FARM AMBIENCE. A ROOSTER CROWS. WOOSH AND THUMP. SUPERMAN LANDS AND WALKS ON TO
FRONT PORCH. THE SCREEN DOOR CREEKS OPEN.
MA KENT
Clark. You're home.
CLARK
How are you mother?
MA KENT
I can't complain. I've been working on a book. I'm taking after you Clark. I find I enjoy writing.
CLARK
That's really swell. What are you writing?
MA KENT
Oh it's just a little history about Smallville. With your father gone I've been spending time down at the museum looking up old photographs, talking to folks in town that remember how things were. (PAUSE) Clark. Are you alright? What's that you have there?
SFX: HEAVY GLASS OBJECT SET DOWN ON WOODEN PORCH.
CLARK
(BREATHES DEEP) I remember how things were. Things were simple, it was nice.
MA KENT
What is that thing? Clark sit down. Talk to me son.
CLARK
I need to leave this here for now. I don't quite know what it is yet, but I think it's safe. I'll come back for it.
SFX: TAKES A FEW STEPS OFF PORCH.
MA KENT
Please stay for a moment.
CLARK
Mother, things move so fast, even for me. I can fly around the world in seconds, but I still feel like I can't keep up. I could only imagine what it's like for everyone else.
MA KENT
But they don't carry the weight you do Clark. They don't worry if you are going to be alright. Because they know you will be. She knows you will be...
CLARK
It's not that. What I've learned in the last few days ... Things are not what I thought. Everything is different now. I used to just feel torn about living the quiet life here in Smallville and the excitement of Metropolis. I wanted both y'know, but now ... what I know now ... I am more confused.
MA KENT
Change happens Clark. We all see it in our life. Just because your Superman, doesn't mean you're immune. (PAUSE) Even if we acknowledge it, often its the change we don't see coming or what we'd hope for. What matters is how we pull through it together.
SFX: SILENCE THEN A SMALL BREEZE BLOWS. THEN AN ANNOYING PITCH THAT ONLY THE KRYPTONIAN CAN DETECT.
SUPERMAN
(A WINCE OF AURAL PAIN)
MA KENT
Clark?
CLARK
Something ... up in the sky, near the cosmic rift crossing ... Mother I must go!
SFX: SUPERMAN TAKES OFF WITH A FEROCIOUS GUST KICKING UP DUST. MA KENT COUGHS A BIT.
MA KENT
Do be careful son. (ECHOES)
SFX: FAST RUSH OF WIND.
SUPERMAN
I will mother.
SCENE 18 - INT. MAD SCIENTIST LABORATORY
SFX: HIGH VOLTAGE SOUNDS, ZAPS AND WHIRRING. METAL TINGING AGAINST METAL RHYTHMICALLY AND VARIOUS CLICKS. SIZZLING.
LEX
Yessss. Years of research and nearly all the Luthor family fortune has wrought you.
TOMMY
Boss? What is that thing?
LEX
Eh? You oaf, you don't just wander in here. I've told you the lab is off limits! Gah, get out of here! (BEAT) Wait! I need you after all. With David destroyed I'll need help moving my BEN ray.
TOMMY
This thing here? Ung! Thing weighs a TON!
SFX: HEAVY PIECE OF MACHINERY BEING LIFTED OF A WOOD TABLE AND SET ON A METAL STAND.
JENNY
A 2000 pound Ben ray?! Ha! You should call it the Ben-ton ray!
LEX
Uff! You too! Does no one obey Lex around here? Tommy bring the BEN ray here to the hall.
JENNY
You name that fat hunk of junk Ben? Why not Huey?
LEX
Bee Eee En - Beryllium Energized Neutralizer! No matter the structure or the material, this ray is powerful enough to obliterate what ever is in it's path. Even that Cosmic Rift Connection
SFX: HEAVY CASTORS ROLLING ACROSS THE METAL FLOOR.
TOMMY
Boss why are you pointing that Ben-ton ray into the sky?
LEX
A demonstration since you both are here. Superman destroys David. I destroy Superman.
JENNY
Lex if you release the Benton ray on society it will screw everything up! It will suck the life out of all of us!
LEX
No honey, this is good thing.
SFX: BUTTONS AND BEEPS. THEN AN INFERNAL RACKET OF ZAPS, WHIZZES, BANGS AND SHIMMIES. A DEAFENING CACOPHONY OF PRE-ATOMIC AGE WEAPONIZED HARDWARE.
JENNY
(OVER THE RUMBLE OF THE LASER) Lex you are going to obliterate us!
LEX
(YELLING BACK TO BE HEARD) Obliteration is the result, but not you precious and not me! That infernal CRC will see its doom! And I think Superman will try to save it so it will be his doom as well!
SFX: A STREAM OF LASERS FIRE ALL AT ONCE. IN AN INSTANT THEY COMBINE AND MAKE A DEAFENING SUPER-LASER, THEN RADIATE TO A HIGH PITCH.
LEX
(MANIACAL LAUGHTER.)
MUSIC: DRAMATIC STING
SCENE 19 - EXT. SKY - DAY
SFX: LASER BREAKING THE SOUND BARRIER.
MUSIC: INTENSE DRIVING MUSIC. IT IS URGENT.
SUPERMAN
That light ray? What is that? It's firing toward the CRC! It's coming from Luthor's Lab. Must do something to stop it.
SCENE 20 - INT. SCIENCE CENTER
BURKE
So we will need to calibrate the scopes to a higher degree to see further into the Cosmic Rift Crossing.
ASSISTANT
Professor Burke, there's something you should see!
BURKE
Yes what is it, is this important?
ASSISTANT
There appears to be some sort of beam emanating from somewhere here in Metropolis and shooting right at the CRC! See for yourself!
SFX: TURNS A FEW DIALS
BURKE
By the son of Jor-el! It's beginning to glow! I ... I can't even see through it anymore! It's just a flash of ..  Wait! A silhouette?
SFX: TURNS DIAL EVEN MORE.
BURKE
It's Superman! He's flying right towards it! Increase magnification. Do it now!
SFX: SOME BEEPS AND CLICKS.
BURKE
I can't find him! I lost Superman in the scope! Pan and scan for any movement within point one AU. Superman can't fly at the speed of light can he?
SFX: SCANNERS ACTIVATED.
ASSISTANT
There! At the Hydro-Prow Space Station! Zooming in.
SFX: MECHANICAL TURNING OF GLASS ELEMENTS.
BURKE
Lock onto his heat signal and track with it! What's he doing?! He's ripping off a piece of the space station.
ASSISTANT
Well there goes a few million in taxpayer dollars.
BURKE
Okay he's flying back into the beam. I've lost him in the ... there he is, he's deflecting it. He's deflecting it away from the CRC. It's engulfing him, but he's deflecting some of it back! Whoa! Something just! ... Gone.
ASSISTANT
What's gone?!
BURKE
The beam, the CRC, Superman. There's nothing there anymore. Just a rift between worlds.
SFX: CLICK, EQUIPMENT POWERS DOWN.
BURKE
The CRC, is no more.
ASSISTANT
What about Superman? What about Superman?!
SCENE 21 EXT. CITY - DAY
SFX: NORMAL DAY ON THE STREET. PEOPLE GOING ABOUT THEIR BUSINESS. THEN A DISTANT EXPLOSION. BUT IT'S UNUSUAL. IT RESONATES LIKE NO OTHER EXPLOSION. CROWDS GASP.
MALE BYSTANDER
What in the Fleischer was that...?! The clouds are parting?
FEMALE BYSTANDER
What do you think it is?
CRAZY BYSTANDER (CRAZY STREET PREACHER)
It's a sign. The end of world! He is coming, he is coming!
SMALL CHILD
HE is coming! Look!
FEMALE BYSTANDER
Is that Superman?
MALE BYSTANDER
It is! He's flying right toward us faster than a bullet.
FEMALE BYSTANDER
No, he's falling! Look out!
SFX: A METEORITE OF A MAN OF STEEL PUMMELS INTO THE STREET. DEBRIS AND DUST FLY EVERYWHERE. CROWD WALLA OF SHELL SHOCK AND CONCERN FOR THEIR HERO.
MALE BYSTANDER
Is he down there?
FEMALE BYSTANDER
Is he dead?
SFX: SILENCE, EXCEPT THE SLIGHT SOUND OF THE CITY. THIS LINGERS, THEN A CRUMBLE. THEN ANOTHER. CHUNKS OF PAVEMENT FALL INTO A CREVICE THEN ... SUPERMAN CLIMBS OUT AND CHEERS ERUPT. FEMALE BYSTANDER: HE'S ALRIGHT. SUPERMAN'S ALIVE.
SFX: THE CHEERS DIE DOWN AS PARTICLES AND CHUNKS START HITTING THE PAVEMENT AND THE METALLIC CARTOPS. PEOPLE BEGIN SCREAMING. THE SOLID RAIN CONTINUES FOR SOMETIME THEN CEASES.
MALE BYSTANDER
Ech. What is this stuff? Look at Superman! He's down again!
FEMALE BYSTANDER
Superman, what's the matter? Someone help him!
MALE BYSTANDER
He's covered in that stuff! Help me get it off!
SFX: ROCKS BEING PICKED UP AND THROWN TO THE GROUND. MANY HANDS ARE AT WORK.
MALE BYSTANDER
That's it, clear it off!
FEMALE BYSTANDER
Ouch it's hot. Wonder if this stuff hurt him?
MALE BYSTANDER
I don't know let's just get it out of here. You! All of you help us out! Pick all this up and get it out of here! Clear off Superman!
SMALL CHILD
Come on Superman, please get up! Please!
SFX: SUPERMAN RISES WITH A GRUNT.
CROWD
Applause and screams. He's alright!
SMALL CHILD
Way to go Superman!
SUPERMAN
(SLIGHT GRUNT, BUT STILL WEAK) Thank you. Thank you everyone for helping me. Now stand back I've got something I need to do.
SFX: TAKE OFF WHOOSH. (ECHOES)
SCENE 22 - NEWS OFFICE
SFX: TYPEWRITERS CLACKING AWAY. A CLOCK TICKS AWAY THE FINAL MINUTES OF THE DAY.
PERRY
Nice work everyone. There's no better news staff on the planet than at the Planet! Sorry we can't pay you like politicians, but you are worth every cent.
JIMMY
Thanks Chief!
PERRY
Yes even you Jimmy boy. With you and Lois on the scene we got the story of the century going to print as we speak! LEAVE IT TO SUPERMAN: COMMUNITY BRIDGED, WORLD SAVED!
LOIS
Hey Chief since you think we did such a swell job, I wanted to talk to you about a new adventure. News is going electronic, can you hear me being on radio ...
PERRY
I thought you were a serious news woman Lois?
LOIS
Mark my words chief, Someday ... I envision a world where information is disseminated out on these new things called computers. Writers such as myself and young ambitious lads like Jimmy here will come together to provide a new kind of media. A creative media culture.
PERRY
Nah! Print will never die! Besides ... creative media culture? That doesn't have a good ring to it, there's a word missing.
JIMMY
I got one Chief! These new computers work in a way that's called digital. What about creative media and digital ...
PERRY
Don't say stupid stuff Olsen.
JIMMY
Right Chief.
LOIS
So anyway Chief about this radio show ...
MUSIC: TRANSITION BACK TO STUDIO INTERVIEW.
SCENE 23 - BROADCAST STUDIO
SUPERMAN
... In answer to your question Lois...about why I am leaving ... what I saw that day was a community coming together. They we're doing even what I could not. It turns out the debris that hurt me was irradiated chunks of the CRC. When Luthor destroyed the CRC it created a substance that was as harmful as kryptonite which I guess people are calling lexorite now. That very thing that could have destroyed me brought everyone together and as a group they determined how to neutralize it and worked together to rid our city of it.
LOIS
So you stopped Luthor's destructive weapon and helped the army capture Lex. And most importantly we've gotten rid of lexorite. So I ask again, why leave?
SUPERMAN
Hopefully someday there will be another opening to that other world. I would like to help create it. That is why I am leaving. Until our technology and ingenuity improves I can be out there searching. Besides I have found a new part of myself, something dear to me from my home planet. I have a responsibility to see that it gets restored to it's proper place in the galaxy.
LOIS
And what about us?
SUPERMAN
As long as our efforts are directed toward the same goal, no matter where we are ... we'll be together ... as a community. Leaving a legacy.
LOIS
(PAUSE-EMOTIONAL) Well there you have it folks. Superman we are so pleased that you have joined us. Thank you for all that you have done for our world. We will miss you.
SUPERMAN
Thank you Lois, thank you for having me here. Thank you everyone. I will miss Metropolis and I will miss ... the home where I grew up. But I must leave. Take care.
LOIS
Thank you everyone out there for tuning in to our show. This is a landmark day, perhaps the last time we will see Superman. But we hope he will return. We need heroes in our lives. Someone to look up to. To inspire us. This Lois Lane signing off for now. Goodnight.
SFX: RADIO STATIC, BUZZING AND INTERMITTENT SIGNALS COMING IN AND OUT. THEN THE RADIO SWITCHES OFF AND THE BUZZ OF THE VACUUM TUBES FADE. SILENCE FOR A BEAT AND THEN ...
MUSIC: THE JOHN WILLIAMS SUPERMAN MARCH
ANNOUNCER
Faster than a speeding bullet, more powerful than a locomotive, able to leap tall buildings in a single bound, it's Superman. Strange visitor from another planet who came to earth with powers and abilities far beyond those of mortal man. Superman who disguised as Clark Kent, mild manner reporter for a major metropolitan newspaper, fights a never ending battle for truth, justice and the Clark County way. Champion of the oppressed, physical marvel extraordinary who has sworn to devote his existence in Vancouver to helping those in need!