"THE CAT WITH TEN LIVES"

Teleplay by:
David Tomblin

Directed by:
David Tomblin

Created by:
Gerry and Sylvia Anderson & Reg Hill

Producer:
Reg Hill

Executive Producer:
Gerry Anderson


EXTERIOR : MOONBASE
INTERIOR : MOONBASE CONTROL SPHERE
The camera starts on a close-up of the 3-d Moon-map set into the sphere. The camera pulls back to show NINA BARRY sitting at the center console. OPERATIVES ONE & TWO sit at the wall consoles. Barry is intent of the radar tracker at her station. A blip shows on the screen.

BARRY
Here we go again.
(presses red alert sounder)
(to microphone)
Red alert, red alert! Interceptors immediate launch.

INTERIOR : LAUNCH SPHERE
THREE MOONBASE ASTRONAUTS, JAMES REGAN, STEVE MENTOW and AL, grab their helmets and jump into the launch chutes.

EXTERIOR : LUNAR SURFACE
Three interceptors are brought to the surface and lift off.

INTERIOR : MOONBASE CONTROL SPHERE

BARRY
(to microphone)
Ground defense control, position rocket launchers.

EXTERIOR : LUNAR SURFACE.
Rocket launchers move across the surface, then stop. The launchers rotate in a partial horizontal arc on their bases as they aim.
EXTERIOR : LUNAR SPACE
The three interceptors cross the screen.
EXTERIOR : LUNAR SURFACE.
The Rocket launchers rotate in a partial horizontal arc on their bases as they aim.

INTERIOR : MOONBASE CONTROL SPHERE

BARRY
(to console video screen)
Moonbase to SHADO Control. Moonbase to SHADO Control.

INTERIOR : SHADO CONTROL
COMMANDER STRAKER stands near FORD's station. VIRGINIA LAKE stands beside him. Straker reaches for the microphone at Ford's console.

STRAKER
(to microphone)
Go ahead, Moonbase.

BARRY:

BARRY
(to Straker on monitor)
Ground defenses in position, interceptors space borne. Contact minus four-seven.

STRAKER
(on monitor)
Roger.

EXTERIOR : SPACE - INTERCEPTOR 1
INTERIOR : INTERCEPTOR 1
Astronaut James Regan speaks into his helmet microphone.

REGAN
Firing range, Minus eight.

EXTERIOR : SPACE
The U.F.O. approaches, then veers away from Interceptor 1.

INTERIOR : SHADO CONTROL

MENTOW
(over radio)
The U-foe's retreating. Giving chase.

STRAKER
(to Lake)
It smells.
(to microphone)
Moonbase, tell your ground defenses to get nervous.

INTERIOR : MOONBASE CONTROL SPHERE

BARRY
(to video monitor)
SHADO Control, Three more U-foes approaching. Orbital reference three-one-eight.

STRAKER:

STRAKER
Decoys... .Moonbase, instruct the interceptors to return immediately!

EXTERIOR : LUNAR SURFACE.
Three U.F.O.s fire on Moonbase. As the battle rages, one U.F.O. comes in low over the rocket launchers, fires on then and destroys them.

INTERIOR : SHADO CONTROL

BARRY
Ground defenses knocked out.

LAKE
(to Straker)
That's it, they're wide open now ...Where are they?

EXTERIOR: LUNAR SPACE
The three interceptors return, destroying the three attacking U.F.O.s. The final U.F.O. explodes in an orange fireball: Main Title over.

OPENING TITLES.
Opening titles over:
INTERIOR: COUNTRY COTTAGE.
ALBERT and MURIEL THOMPSON sit in separate chairs in the living room, reading newspapers. Muriel gets up, goes to the front door. She opens the front door to find a package.
MONTAGE: Muriel opens the package to find alphabet cards and a goblet.
2-Setting table up with cards
3-Regan, JEANNE REGAN, Muriel and Albert seated at the table.
4-Regan standing with a cat's-eye shaped light shining on his forehead.

INTERIOR : SHADO CONTROL

LAKE
With eight Ufo's we've destroyed in the last week, you think they'll take the risk?

STRAKER
(thoughtful)
Hmm. First two under cover of sunspot activity, then three at ground level. Now, six in a decoy maneuver.

LAKE
All for nothing. A last fling. You think they'll give up?

STRAKER
(annoyed)
Colonel Lake, they didn't loose all those craft just to give up. What worries me is what will they try next?

Straker heads for his office.

INTERIOR : MOONBASE LOUNGE
Regan, Steve and Al, are laying back in lounge chairs, exhausted. Steve gets up and goes to the coffee server on a nearby counter top. Regan tosses his helmet to Steve, who puts it in its cubical.

STEVE
(to Regan)
Coffee?

REGAN
Yeah, black.

Steve pours a cup and hands it to Regan, over Regan's head.

STEVE
(to Regan)
Here.
(to Al)
You know, Al, I think I'm getting a bit too old for this.

Al shrugs as Steve takes a seat on an empty lounge.

AL
Steve?

STEVE
Yeah?

AL
Twelve more hours.

REGAN
And then home to Mother Earth.

AL
Great, forty-eight hours in our natural habitat.

STEVE
Yeah. Give me just enough time to mow the lawn.

REGAN
What?

STEVE
I said, I'm going to mow the lawn.

BARRY
(over speakers)
Will the following personnel report for combat training? Phillips, Robinson and Regan.

REGAN
Never a dull moment.

AL
(laughing)
The show must go on.

Regan grimaces and gets out of his chair.

REGAN
See you later

STEVE
Give 'em hell, baby.

INTERIOR : MOONBASE GYMNASIUM
PAUL FOSTER is wrestling with Regan as ROBINSON and PHILLIPS look on. Foster pins Regan, then lets him up. Both men wear judo kimono tops and sports helmets.

REGAN
(getting up)
Touche.

FOSTER
My pleasure.

They grapple again, Foster throwing Regan to the mat.

FOSTER
Come on, Regan. You're half asleep.

REGAN
(apologetic)
It's been a long day.

Foster shakes his head and they grapple once more. Regan manages to pin Foster, grabbing Foster's arm and pulling it behind him.

FOSTER
All right ...

REGAN
(refusing to let go of Foster's arm)
No.

FOSTER
(pleading)
It's me!

REGAN
No!

FOSTER
Come on. It'll break!

REGAN
All ...

Regan releases Foster's arm. Immediately, Foster rolls and knocks Regan down.

FOSTER
You should have broken it. That was a mistake.

They grapple again. Foster gets Regan pinned to the mat.

FOSTER
One, two, three...

As Foster counts, Regan climbs slowly to his feet.

FOSTER
four, five, six... You're coming along now, Regan.

Foster removes his safety helmet - practice is over.

REGAN
(shaking head)
No, you're still too good for me.

FOSTER
No, really. You nearly had me back there, but you still lack the killer instinct.

REGAN
Well, I'm a nice fella.

FOSTER
Earth tomorrow?

REGAN
Yeah.

FOSTER
Give my regards to the wife, See you in a couple of days.

REGAN
All right, thank you.

Regan heads for the door.

FOSTER
You're welcome.

Regan nods and leaves the gymnasium. Foster turns to the other men.

FOSTER
(Taking deep breath)
Ah, I think we'll stick to theory for a little while.

INTERIOR : MOONBASE LOUNGE
Regan enters the lounge to discover Al and Steve in their uniforms, playing chess. Another uniform has been laid out on one of the lounge chairs.

REGAN
It's a bit formal for chess. What are you doing in that gear?

AL
Straker's orders. All astronauts in waiting alert until relieved.

REGAN
That's a bit unnecessary. From bed to battle in a hundred and twenty-eight seconds. What more does he want?

AL
Until we get out ground defenses, he's not taking any chances. And, you'll be pleased to know, he wants five practice alerts every day until further notice.

STEVE
He'll be having us living in that launch bay, next.

REGAN
Don't even suggest it.

Regan flops into one of the lounges and stares over at his uniform.

REGAN
Will the real James Regan please stand up? ...It must be me.

Regan gets up and grabs the uniform.

EXTERIOR : AN AIRFIELD, SOMEWHERE ON EARTH
A lunar module/carrier plane lands at the airfield.
EXTERIOR : AIRFIELD SECURITY KIOSK
Regan, in civilian clothes, walks up to the kiosk. He smokes a cigar.

REGAN
(shouting at kiosk)
Morgan, get out here!

MORGAN, the airfield security man, leaves the kiosk.

MORGAN
Oh, it's you.

Regan walks over to him.

MORGAN
Hey, they tell me you had a busy time up there.

REGAN
Damn near. Wasn't in it... How are you, Earth man?

MORGAN
Can't complain.

REGAN
See you Thursday?

MORGAN
Certainly

REGAN
(cheerfully walking past gate)
Cheers.

MORGAN
(waving him on)
Regan.

EXTERIOR : AN APARTMENT BUILDING
INTERIOR: APARTMENT BUILDING HALLWAY
Regan comes down the hallway to door 29.
INTERIOR : REGAN'S APARTMENT
JEANNE REGAN is standing at a mirror, primping for her husband's return. She is about three months pregnant. Regan enters the room and comes over to her.

JEANNE
Jim...

They kiss.

JEANNE
I've been so worried about you.

REGAN
(solemn)
We don't talk about those things, remember?

JEANNE
I'm sorry, it's just that I...?

Regan gives her a look.

JEANNE
Hard time? ...You look exhausted.

REGAN
Very funny... You're the nicest excuse for an early night I can think of.

They begin to kiss, then Jeanne pulls back.

JEANNE
(remembering)
Oh, the Thomsons.

REGAN
(unhappy)
Thomsons? Lovely.

JEANNE
The Thomsons.

REGAN
What about the Thomsons?

Jeanne looks guilty.

REGAN
What about the Thomsons?

JEANNE
Dinner, tonight, the Thomsons. Remember?

REGAN
(remembering)
Ahh ...Do we have to?

JEANNE
It was your idea!

REGAN
But that was a week ago, when I was a young man.

Jeanne stands, takes his hand and begins to pull him up.

JEANNE
Come on. You'll feel better when you've had a shower and a drink.

As she speaks, Regan comes to his feet and she pushes him towards the doorway to the next room.

JEANNE
In you go, Methuselah.

REGAN
Coming.

Regan walks into the next room.

JEANNE
Would you like a drink?

REGAN
(from doorway)
Only if you bring it in to me.

JEANNE
Yes, Master.

REGAN
(closing door)
Yes, dear.

EXTERIOR : BRITISH COUNTRY ROAD - NIGHT
A late model automobile drives down the road.
INTERIOR : REGAN'S AUTOMOBILE
Regan is driving, Jeanne sitting next to him.

REGAN
Now, don't forget, the moment they bring out those home movies, you develop this terrible headache.

JEANNE
(amused)
Don't be so mean. You know how proud your cousin is of his photography.

REGAN
Yes, I know, but, the films he makes. Take the last one, The Courting Habits of the British Earthworm? I ask you, the fellow's kinky.

JEANNE
(laughs)
Oh, Jim. You are a fool.
(cuddles up to him)
It's so nice to have you here.

REGAN
We could always phone back and say we had a puncture.

JEANNE
Nothing I'd like more, but, we can't. We must go, Muriel especially cooked your favorite meal.

REGAN
(mock horror)
Oh no, not again!

INTERIOR : THOMSON'S HOUSE
The same house as in the first sequence.
Jeanne and Regan are seated on the sofa. MURIEL has the alphabet cards a goblet in her hands. ALBERT sits in an easy chair, smoking a pipe.

MURIEL
(excited- to Jeanne and Regan)
I've no idea where it came from. There was a knock on the door, and when I opened it, there was nobody there but this package. I thought it may have been this new face cream I'd ordered, but no, when I unwrapped it, it was this oui-ja thing.
(to Albert)
Help me put the cards out, darling.
(to Jeanne and Regan)
Can't imagine who sent it! I know it's a lot of nonsense, but why don't we try it out? I thought it might be fun.

REGAN
(innocent)
I thought we were going to see Albert's latest film, about butterflies.

Jeanne elbows Regan in the ribs.

MURIEL
(ignoring by-play)
Oh, no, no. This will be much more fun. Albert doesn't mind, do you dear? We can save it till next time.

ALBERT
Yes, anyway, it's not really finished yet. Still needs the commentary.

Muriel begins setting out the cards with Albert's help. Jeanne and Regan come over to the table.

MURIEL
Good, good. Well, now. You sit there, Albert, and Jeannie, there.
(indicating chairs around the table)
And Jim, here, next to me.

They all sit in the indicated places at the table.

MURIEL
Now, everyone has to put a forefinger.
(indicates placing forefingers on the bottom
of the upside down goblet)
Oh, wait a minute.

Muriel gets up and goes to the wall switch.

MURIEL (cont.)
I'll lower the lights.

The ceiling light dims.

MURIEL
(hamming it up)
Must have the atmosphere. Mustn't frighten away the spirits.

She sits back down at her place at the table, placing a forefinger on the glass.

MURIEL
Now, place your fingers on the top of the glass.

Fingers are placed as indicated. They wait.

REGAN
Well, what happens now?

MURIEL
Oh, of course, somebody asks a question.
(pause, to Jeanne)
Ladies first. Please, Jeanne, you ask it.

JEANNE
Okay, um.. What are we going to have, a boy or a girl?

MURIEL
No! You'll have to rephrase the question. You see, we've got a Yes card and a No card. So, you ask if the baby's going to be a boy, and then, if it says no, the you'll know it's going to be a girl.

REGAN
What if it's twins?

ALBERT
Yes, that's a point.

MURIEL
(annoyed)
Don't be ridiculous.

REGAN
(chastened)
Oh...

JEANNE
(to air)
Are we having a boy?

The glass moves to the YES, but has obviously been deliberately guided there.

MURIEL
It's a boy!
(looks at Regan and Jeanne)
But, I suspect there was a certain amount of cheating going on there. Now, come... We must take it seriously.
(to Albert)
Albert, you ask a question.

ALBERT
Well, ah yes... ah... Let's see now...

MURIEL
(annoyed)
Oh, my goodness. Then I'll ask one while you're thinking.
(pause)
Um, what is going to be the fashionable color this year?

The glass begins to move across the board. Muriel reads off the letters:

MURIEL
S... E... A
(Puzzled)
Sea green? ... N... C... E
(puzzled)
Sea-ants? Seance! How strange.
(looks over at others)
Oh, come on, somebody was pushing.

REGAN
Not me, I didn't even know how to spell it.

MURIEL
Oh, well, come on. Let's have a go. Everyone hold hands.

REGAN
(disturbed)
Oh, really, Muriel, It wasn't me.

MURIEL
Oh, never mind.

Muriel grabs his hand. Regan takes Jeanne's and with Albert, they ring the table.

MURIEL
Everybody concentrate. Is there anybody out there?

JEANNE
(giggles)
Oh, Muriel

MURIEL
(ignores Jeanne)
Is there anybody out there?
(to Albert, annoyed)
Albert, take that pipe out of your mouth.

Albert takes the pipe and places it on the table, then he takes Muriel's and Jeanne's hands again.

MURIEL
Perhaps we ought to concentrate with our eyes closed.

They all close their eyes.

MURIEL
Is there anybody out there?

JEANNE
Is there anybody out there?

ALBERT
Is there anybody out there?

REGAN
Is there anybody out there?

MURIEL
Is there anybody out there?

JEANNE
Is there anybody out there?

ALBERT
Is there anybody out there?

MURIEL
Is there anybody out there?

The camera shot is from above, catching each speaker in turn in a dizzying pattern. As the seance proceeds, Regan appears to go into a trance. He holds tightly to Muriel's and Jeanne's hands, so tightly he shakes. Regan's eyes are closed and he appears to be in pain. Muriel grimaces at Albert, who breaks the ring by dropping Muriel and Jeanne's hands. Suddenly, Regan comes to.

JEANNE
(worried)
Are you all right, darling?

ALBERT
Can I get you something?

REGAN
No, no. It's all right.

ALBERT
What happened?

REGAN
(surprised)
I passed out.

JEANNE
(worried)
Are you sure you're all right?

REGAN
Yes, I'm fine. I must have been more tired than I thought.

EXTERIOR : DARK COUNTRY ROAD
Regan's car drives down the road.
INTERIOR : REGAN'S CAR
Regan is driving.

REGAN
(upset)
Silly damn game. I don't know what came over me. It must have been that foul tobacco that Albert smokes.

JEANNE
(worried)
It was rather frightening.

REGAN
(chiding)
Oh, come on, love. Let's not make something out of nothing. You were the last person to believe in all that nonsense.

JEANNE
Of course I don't. I was just worried about you.

REGAN
Just tiredness catching up with me. I'll be good as new after a night's sleep.

Jeanne looks out the windshield, noticing the car's route.

JEANNE
Jim, why are we taking the long way home?

REGAN
(confused)
Sorry, just wasn't thinking, I suppose.

JEANNE
Do you want me to drive?

REGAN
Perhaps you'd better.

EXTERIOR : DARK COUNTRY ROAD
The car slows and heads for the shoulder.

INTERIOR: REGAN'S CAR
Jeanne is driving. Regan appears asleep. Suddenly, he reaches out and pulls the hand brake up. Regan and Jeanne are thrown against their seat belts. The car screeches to a halt.

JEANNE
(alarmed)
What was that for? What's the matter?

REGAN
(confused)
I don't know... Must have been something in the road.

Regan climbs out of the car.

EXTERIOR : DARK COUNTRY ROAD.
The car's headlights illuminate the shoulder. There is a Siamese cat standing, frozen, in the lights. Regan walks in front of the car and discovers the cat, picking it up in his arms. Regan goes back to the car.
INTERIOR: REGAN'S CAR

JEANNE
Of course. It was startled by the lights.

REGAN
Yeah, he was lucky I saw him... Well, we can't just leave him. We'll drop him at the next police station.

JEANNE
Jim?

REGAN
Yeah?

JEANNE
If they can't trace him...?

REGAN
(amused)
Here it comes...

JEANNE
Can I keep him? He's so beautiful, and he'd be company for me when you're away.

REGAN
Well, I'll have to think about it. I don't like competition, you know.

As Regan speaks, he presses the button to close the car door. Nothing happens.

REGAN
Oh oh. Who said cats were lucky? I think we'll call this one Jonah... Let's see what's in the tool kit.

He starts to look in the glove box. Jeanne sees a U.F.O. in the trees, puts her hand on his shoulder to get his attention. As he turns he sees the U.F.O.

REGAN
Get out, quick!

Suddenly, Regan and Jeanne are attacked by red space suited aliens. They are stunned and dragged from the car. Regan sees Jeanne being carried away by an alien. He sees the ground go past as he is carried into the space craft.

EXTERIOR : WOODED AREA
A U.F.O. sits in the wooded area. Regan and Jeanne are taken to it.

INTERIOR: U.F.O.
Regan is 'examined' by an alien light beam. He stands, frozen, as a light shines over his heart, beating in time with his heartbeat. The light travels up to his head, focussing on the spot between his eyebrows.

EXTERIOR: COUNTRY ROAD
Regan regains consciousness lying in his car. The cat sits by his side, purring. Regan looks around in panic.

REGAN
Jeanne? ...Jeanne!!

From the trees, he hears the U.F.O. taking off.

REGAN
Straker...

He starts the car and drives off.

EXTERIOR : HARLINGTON-STRAKER STUDIOS - NIGHT
Regan's car drives through the main gate, fast.

INTERIOR : HARLINGTON-STRAKER STUDIOS - OUTER OFFICE- NIGHT
MISS HOLLAND is still at work. She is startled when Regan runs in, disheveled and panicky.

HOLLAND
Jim, what on Earth's the matter with you?

REGAN
I've got to see Straker

He runs past her, into the inner office.

INTERIOR : INNER OFFICE - NIGHT
Regan goes to the desk and opens the cigarette box.

REGAN
(upset - to box)
Regan...Regan!

SECURITY COMPUTER
Voice print positive.

The room doors close and the room begins to descend. Regan paces impatiently. At the bottom, the doors slide open. Regan goes through them before they are fully opened. Regan has not seen the Siamese cat enter the office and accompany him down to SHADO headquarters.

INTERIOR : STRAKER'S OFFICE - SHADO
Straker is leaning against his desk, watching Regan as Regan paces the office. Lake stands near-by listening.

REGAN
And then, they gave us what could only be a medical.

LAKE
Spare parts, transplant organs.

REGAN
(horrified)
No!

LAKE
That's all it could have been.

REGAN
No, it couldn't. It couldn't, or they would have taken me as well.

STRAKER
(calm)
You could have been an unsuitable donor. Wrong body tissue group.
(puzzled)
But, why leave you alive?

LAKE
(to Straker)
What puzzles me is how come they pick on a member of SHADO?

STRAKER
Well, that could be a coincidence. Four other people were taken a short time ago on that road. A woman was left behind, apparently dead. before she died, she had a chance to tell us what had happened. She had a weak heart.

Regan sits, apparently in shock. His face is wet with tears.

LAKE
(to Straker)
Who shall I assign to replace him?

STRAKER
(to Lake)
No one.
(to Regan)
You will report for normal duty tomorrow.

Regan doesn't move, seemingly not understanding Straker's instruction.

STRAKER
That's all, Regan.

Regan leaves the office in a daze. Lake watches him go and as soon as the door closes behind Regan, turns to Straker, upset.

LAKE
Can't you see? The man's in shock. He needs to...

STRAKER
(interrupting)
We need! With all these attacks and the Venus Probe coming in soon, and the Ufo still around, we need every astronaut available... That's all.

Lake storms out of Straker's office.

INTERIOR : JACKSON'S OFFICE
DOCTOR JACKSON is observing a lab apparatus as Straker opens the door and enters.

STRAKER
Doctor Jackson.

JACKSON
(looking up)
Commander.

STRAKER
(uncomfortable)
You've heard what happened? About Regan?

JACKSON
Yes, poor man. A tragedy.

STRAKER
I've ordered him back to duty.

JACKSON
Quite right, the only thing you could do.

STRAKER
(sad smile)
Well, it's nice that somebody understands.
(serious)
I'd like you to keep an eye on him though, Doctor. Just in case.

JACKSON
I most certainly will... You look a bit under the weather yourself.

STRAKER
Just a headache. But, if it will make you feel any better, I'll have a couple of aspirin.

Jackson laughs and goes to a nearby shelve, pulling down a bottle of aspirin. Paul Foster enters the office holding some file folders.

FOSTER
(to Jackson)
They asked me to drop this in for you as I was passing, Doctor.
(to Straker)
I was just coming to see you... Uh, he's got a couple weeks leave due, if you want to relieve Regan for a while.

STRAKER
That's nice of you, Paul, but I think he'll be better off occupied.

Straker turns to the door. Jackson opens one of the files Foster handed him and begins to read.

STRAKER
(to Foster)
Come back to the office, will you? I want to go through the Venus Probe escort procedure with you.
(to Jackson)
Thank you, Doctor.

As Straker and Foster start through the door, Jackson looks up.

JACKSON
(startled, excited)
Don't go!

Straker and Foster stop and turn to look back at Jackson, puzzled.

JACKSON
This is the result on the autopsy we carried out on the alien's body.

FOSTER
The one we found after the Moonbase attack?

JACKSON
(nods)
It could shatter all our past theories.

STRAKER
Go on.

JACKSON
It is mostly conjecture. The head was badly damaged. I may be completely wrong. Until more proof...

STRAKER
(interrupting - annoyed)
Cut the caution, Doctor. We're not likely to quote you.

JACKSON
All right, I'm sorry. As you are well aware, up until now we've all believed they were humanoid. A dying race keeping themselves alive by transplanting our organs into their bodies... The alien I examined this morning, I think... His whole body was human.

STRAKER
His brain?

JACKSON
Even his brain.

FOSTER
You mean, he was one of us?

JACKSON
Ultimately, yes.

FOSTER
But, if his brain...?

JACKSON
His brain may have been human, but it doesn't mean his mind was.

FOSTER
(protesting)
But mind, brain, they're the same...

JACKSON
No, No, No. Let me try to explain. Oh, there was so much damage, it was almost impossible to tell, but certain sections of the brain seemed to be missing. The parts that control emotions, creativity. Only the analytical, the logical remained. It is be possible that these creatures are not humanoid at all. They just use our bodies, erase from the brain all knowledge, wipe it clean and reprogram it with, ah, transmit to it, their own thought patterns, their own intelligence.

FOSTER
But, why?

JACKSON
Ah, I don't know. It could be they aren't capable of traveling in space. The form of life they take are, I can't begin to imagine. They may have no physical being at all, and therefore need a vehicle, a container, for them. Our bodies.

STRAKER
(thoughtful) And so, with spare part surgery, they're able to keep these 'human computers' alive and free from senility during their years in space.

FOSTER
But that's unbelievable.

JACKSON
So were U.F.O.s... Yes, as fantastic as it sounds, they could be living computers.

INTERIOR : SHADO CONTROL
Cat's eye view of the control room, operatives, as the cat crosses the room.

INTERIOR: SHADO CONTROL
LIEUTENANT JOHNSON spots the Siamese cat near her station. Another SHADO OPERATIVE sits at another console near-by.

JOHNSON
(to cat)
What are you doing here? I should report you, you know. This is a restricted area.
(to other Operative)
Looks like we've got us a mascot.

EXTERIOR:COUNTRY LAKE
The water begins to boil. Camera pulls back as U.F.O. pulls out of the water, into the air.

INTERIOR : SHADO CONTROL
Johnson sits at her station. A blip appears on her monitor.

JOHNSON
(to microphone)
Red Alert, red alert. Ufo leaving Earth, area P-Zed one-seven. Direction, Amber four-G. Speed, sixteen hundred.

INTERIOR : MOONBASE CONTROL SPHERE
Nina Barry sits at the command console. Straker appears on the monitor at her console.

STRAKER
(on screen)
Moonbase, Ufo approaching, area amber four-G. E-T-A three-eight-seven.

BARRY
(to console microphone)
Red Alert, red alert. Interceptors immediate launch!.

As she speaks, the red Alert siren sounds.

BARRY
ETA in area Amber four-G. Minus Three-six-four.

EXTERIOR : LUNAR SURFACE.
Three Moonbase interceptors launch.

INTERIOR : SHADO CONTROL
Lake stands next to Straker, listening. They stand near the main communications console, manned by Johnson.

STRAKER
(to Johnson)
Instruct interceptors, new course. Area Blue one-two. ETA minus one-nine-seven. The Ufo will cross their path diagonally. Spread out and station one-five-zero miles apart.

JOHNSON
Yes, sir.

EXTERIOR : SPACE
The three interceptors separate. The U.F.O. approaches as predicted. Interceptor one fires on the U.F.O. and misses.

INTERIOR : INTERCEPTOR ONE.
Steve calls back to Moonbase.

STEVE
Near miss, some damage.

BARRY
(over radio)
Speed down to fifty thousand.

INTERIOR : SHADO CONTROL

LAKE
He must. Regan must get it now.

STRAKER
(horrified)
Regan? His wife's aboard that craft.

EXTERIOR : SPACE
The U.F.O. crosses in front of Regan's interceptor.
INTERIOR : REGAN'S INTERCEPTOR
Regan sees the U.F.O. through his windows, begins to aim, He has trouble with his eyes, cannot see. Then he goes into a trance, permitting the U.F.O. to escape. As the U.F.O. passes, he begins to pull off his wedding ring.

INTERIOR : STRAKER'S OFFICE
Straker sits at his desk, listening to Regan. Regan is very upset.

REGAN
I don't know what happened. One moment, it was right in my sights, next it was gone.

STRAKER
It was unfortunate that you had to encounter that particular Ufo.

REGAN
The fact that my wife was on board made me more determined. I wanted that U-foe. I'd rather she were dead than ...
(begins to break down)

STRAKER
It wasn't entirely your fault. I made a bad decision, sending you back to duty so soon. But, now I'm resting you, for a month.

REGAN
(upset)
I don't want to be rested. I'm flying Venus Probe escort tomorrow, there maybe another chance.

STRAKER
(firm)
Regan, I can't afford vendettas. Colonel Foster will take your place.

REGAN
But, I have to go.

STRAKER
You are suspended for one month! That's an order.

REGAN
But ...

STRAKER
(interrupting)
That's all!

Regan leaves the office, upset and angry. Straker watches him leave, then presses a button on the desk intercom.

STRAKER
(to intercom)
Colonel Foster will be replacing James Regan until further notice. Inform all departments.
(keys another button)
Doctor Jackson?

JACKSON
(over intercom)
Jackson.

STRAKER
(to intercom)
I've just relieved Regan from duty. Tomorrow morning, I want a full physical and psychiatric report on him.

INTERIOR : SHADO LOUNGE
The car sits on the floor of the lounge as Regan enters. He sees the cat and picks it up.

REGAN
(to cat)
So, that's where you've got to.

Johnson is passing outside the door, sees Regan with the cat and comes in.

JOHNSON
Oh, is it yours?

REGAN
My wife's. No, it would have been. We found it on the road, just before...
(pauses, as if in acute pain.)
Just before the U-foe.

JOHNSON
Are you all right, Jim?

REGAN
Just a headache.

INTERIOR : OUTER OFFICE
Miss Holland sits at the desk. She looks up as Straker enters from the inner office.

STRAKER
(in good humor)
Well, how's show business?

HOLLAND
There's no business.

Straker looks surprised.

HOLLAND
Well, hardly.

She hands Straker several files from the top of the desk.

HOLLAND
Signature please.

Straker signs the documents he's been handed and hands them back.

HOLLAND
Business reports. They've just finished the 'Rebels of Santo Domingo' and there's a dog food commercial on stage four.

STRAKER
Oh?

HOLLAND
And a script for your approval.

She hands him a bound manuscript. He leafs through it.

HOLLAND
It's a period piece about World War Two.

STRAKER
World War Two, huh?
(drops script on desk)
Well, I think I'll leave this until Miss Ealand gets back, let her handle it.

HOLLAND
Right.

Straker begins to turn towards the outside door of the office, then stops.

STRAKER
Oh, Miss Holland. I haven't had a chance to thank you yet, for filling in here.

HOLLAND
No need. It makes a break from Section Nine.

STRAKER
Hmm, How is Colonel Blake?

HOLLAND
(smiles)
Oh, he's the same. I'll give him your regards.

STRAKER
Good, do that.
(thinking)
Well, I suppose as head of the studio, I'd better show my face. Stage four, you say?

HOLLAND
Yes.

Straker turns to head out the entrance door.

HOLLAND
Sir?

Straker stops to look back at her.

HOLLAND
How's Jim Regan taking it?

STRAKER
He's taking it.

Straker leaves the office.

INTERIOR : STAGE 4.
Straker enters the sound stage. There are at least a DOZEN BARKING DOGS on leashes, with a HALF DOZEN TRAINERS trying to keep control of them. Straker waves to one of the SEVERAL STAGE CREWMEN.

INTERIOR : SHADO LOUNGE
The Siamese cat sits on a chair, in near darkness, purring. Regan sits on the lounge chair. He seems in pain. Finally, he gets up and leaves as if in a trance.

EXTERIOR : HARLINGTON-STRAKER STUDIOS BACK LOT.
Foster's car is parked near a stone building with an exterior stairway - a ruin. Regan walks over to the car, still in a trance and gets into the passenger side to Foster's car.
Moments later, Paul Foster crosses the parking lot and approaches the car. He opens the diver's side door and gets in, seeing Regan.

FOSTER
(surprised)
Jim, what are you doing here?

Regan doesn't speak. Regan seems dazed, but Foster doesn't notice.

FOSTER
It was terrible about Jeanne. I don't know what to say. If there's anything I can do.
(pauses, peers at Regan)
You okay? I'll take you back...

As Foster reaches to take Regan's arm, Regan attacks Foster, making sounds like a cat.

FOSTER
(surprised and alarmed)
What is this? Now wait!!

Foster attempts to escape, despite being attacked. When he cannot escape, Foster is forced to fight. Regan scratches Foster's face. As they fight, Foster gets the worst of it. He is forced to back away from Regan's attack, up the stairs, finally jumping down. Regan follows, knocking Foster into an open pit and knocking Foster unconscious. Then, Regan runs off. Intercut with the fight with Foster: the Siamese cat in the lounge. The fight ends when the cat is startled, breaking it's concentration.

EXTERIOR : MODULE AIR-STRIP
A blue SHADO van drives up[ and stops at the kiosk. Regan is driving. Morgan comes out of the kiosk to check Regan in.

MORGAN
Oh, it's you... Sorry about...

REGAN
(interrupting)
Yeah.

MORGAN
You're late.

REGAN
Got held up.

MORGAN
Wait a minute, I thought Colonel Foster was supposed to be taking your place?

REGAN
The order was canceled.

MORGAN
I should check. You know what Straker is.

REGAN
(hesitant)
Straker's... orders.

MORGAN
I should still check, but seein' as it's you.

Morgan holds out a pad for Regan's thumbprint.

MORGAN
Good Luck.

The gates rise and Regan drives past.

EXTERIOR: PIT
Foster has regained consciousness. He tries to climb out of the pit but cannot. The walls are too high and there are no handholds he can reach.

EXTERIOR : LUNAR MODULE
Lunar module takes off

EXTERIOR: SPACE:
The Moon

EXTERIOR : MOONBASE
The lunar module comes in for a landing.

INTERIOR: LAUNCH BAY
INTERIOR: LUNAR INTERCEPTOR.
Regan is inside the interceptor. He uncouples a lead behind the pilot's seat and reconnects it wrong.

INTERIOR : MOONBASE ASTRONAUT'S LOUNGE
Al and Steve sit in the lounge. They seem subdued.

BARRY
(over speakers)
Interceptor crew change, minus thirty minutes.

STEVE
I wonder how poor old Jim's taking it?

AL
Yeah. She was a nice girl.

STEVE
Hmm...

BARRY
(over speakers)
Interceptor pilots, stand by to escort Venus probe.

STEVE
I wonder where Colonel Foster is?

AL
Oh, he's probably having a quick workout in the gym. But, don't worry about it.

BARRY
(over speakers)
Interceptors, stand by, three minutes.

STEVE
(standing up)
We'd better report.

Regan enters the room, in uniform.

STEVE
(surprised)
Hey, Jim, I thought Paul was taking your place.

REGAN
The order was changed.

STEVE
I wasn't informed.

REGAN
Last minute decision. Paul was taken ill.

STEVE
I'm sorry. I don't doubt your word, but I must follow procedure.

Steve steps over to the wall intercom and keys it.

STEVE
(to intercom)
Hello, operations room? Captain Mentow here. I'd like to speak to Major Heath.

BARRY
(over speakers)
Interceptors, immediate launch.

Steve leaves the intercom, following Al and Regan into the launch chutes.

INTERIOR : OUTER OFFICE
The cat leaves the inner office. Holland sees the cat and tries to pick it up. She is seriously scratched for her efforts.

INTERIOR : STRAKER'S OFFICE
Straker has keyed the intercom

STRAKER
(to intercom)
Doctor Jackson.

JACKSON
(over intercom)
Jackson.

STRAKER
(to intercom)
The medical report I asked for on Regan, it hasn't come through yet.

JACKSON
(over intercom)
I haven't been able to contact him. Nobody seems to know where he is.

Upset, Straker re-keys the intercom.

STRAKER
(to intercom)
Locate Regan. He is to report to Doctor Jackson at once.

EXTERIOR : PIT.
Paul Foster is trapped and trying to climb out.

EXTERIOR: SPACE
The three interceptors have rendezvoused with a satellite and are flying in formation with it.

INTERIOR : STRAKER'S OFFICE
The intercom buzzes and Straker keys it open.

STRAKER
(to intercom)
Straker

MORGAN
(over intercom)
Morgan here, sir. Regan went to Moonbase this morning.

STRAKER
(to intercom)
Didn't you get the order about Colonel Foster replacing him?

MORGAN
(over intercom)
Yes, sir, but he'd said you'd canceled it.

STRAKER
(furious)
I want to see you first thing, Morgan. I don't make orders to have them ignored!

MORGAN
(subdued)
Yes, sir.

Straker flips off the intercom and turns on the video monitor at his desk.

STRAKER
(to monitor)
Moonbase.

Nina Barry appears on the monitor.

BARRY
(on screen)
Moonbase.

INTERIOR : MOONBASE CONTROL SPHERE.

STRAKER
I want to talk to Captain Regan.

BARRY
He's escorting Venus Probe in, Commander.

STRAKER
(on monitor)
Where's Colonel Foster?

BARRY
The colonel's not on Moonbase.

STRAKER
(on monitor, very upset)
Contact Regan. Find out what the hell he's playing at!

BARRY
(taken aback)
Yes, sir.

The monitor switches off and Barry turns to her console microphone.

BARRY
(to microphone)
Regan, come in, Regan.

INTERIOR : REGAN'S INTERCEPTOR
Barry's voice come over the speaker.

BARRY
(over radio)
Regan, come in.

Regan reaches over an turns off the radio link.

INTERIOR : SHADO CONTROL
Lake stands by Johnson's station. Straker enters, angry.

STRAKER
(to Lake)
Regan's flying!

LAKE
(surprised)
I thought you grounded him.

STRAKER
I did. He's broken radio contact.

LAKE
He's never disobeyed orders before.

STRAKER
(calmer)
Yes, that's what worries me... Find Foster.

LAKE
(Surprised again)
Why? Isn't he on Moonbase?

STRAKER
(irritated)
No, he isn't. He's here, somewhere.

EXTERIOR: GROUND
The cat waits, watching.

EXTERIOR : SPACE
The three interceptors are accompanying the Venus Probe satellite as it flies.

CAT:
On Earth, the cat reacts to unseen stimuli.

REGAN:
In Regan's Interceptor, Regan reacts as the cat does.

INTERIOR : SHADO CONTROL
Straker stands by Johnson's station. Nina Barry appears on the monitor above the station.

BARRY
(on monitor)
Yes, Commander?

STRAKER
(to monitor)
The minute Captain Regan lands, I want him placed under close arrest and brought back here.

BARRY
(on monitor- surprised)
Yes, sir.

Foster and Lake enter the control room. Foster's face is bruised, his clothes torn. Straker is shocked at his condition as Foster sits on the steps.

STRAKER
God almighty, Paul. What happened?

FOSTER
Regan. He was like a madman,

LAKE
Why? Why did he do it?

FOSTER
I don't know. I tried to reason with him, but he was out of his mind, like a wild animal.

STRAKER
Did he say anything?

FOSTER
No, nothing.

STRAKER
Nothing at all?

FOSTER
No. He just kept making noises, like a cat.

STRAKER
A cat?

The camera focuses on the scratches on Fosters face, like great cat scratches. Johnson turns to look at Straker and Foster.

JOHNSON
Commander, there is a cat. It belonged to Regan's wife. He said he found it close to the Ufo.
(pause, remembering)
Something else, Commander. When he picked it up, he suddenly developed head pains.

Straker reaches over to the intercom at Johnson's console and keys it.

STRAKER
(to intercom)
Jackson!

JACKSON
(over intercom)
Jackson.

STRAKER
(to intercom)
That human computer theory of yours, Doctor, could it apply to an animal?

JACKSON
(over intercom)
Well, without researching...

STRAKER
(interrupting)
Is it possible?

JACKSON
The brain pattern is totally different, but, I suppose...

STRAKER
(interrupting)
Never mind that. Yes, or no?

JACKSON
Yes, but you must understand...

Straker cuts him off by keying off the intercom.

LAKE
I'll get the building searched.

Lake begins to move away.

STRAKER
Hold it.

Lake halts and looks back at Straker.

STRAKER
Let's make sure it's still in the building.
(to Johnson)
Get me Miss Holland.

INTERIOR : OUTER OFFICE
The phone rings and Miss Holland picks it up. Her hand is bandaged.

HOLLAND
(to phone)
Miss Holland...
(pause listening)
Yes, I did, about half an hour ago.

The line hangs up with a loud click. Miss Holland stares at the receiver, miffed.

EXTERIOR: SPACE
The three interceptors and the satellite. One of the interceptors breaks formation, heading back towards the Moon.

INTERIOR : MOONBASE CONTROL SPHERE
Barry is seated at the center console. Straker appears on the monitor.

BARRY
(to monitor)
Commander, Regan's broken formation.

INTERIOR : SHADO CONTROL

STRAKER
(to Barry, on monitor)
Trajectory?

S.I.D.
(over speakers)
Interceptor three on collision course, Moonbase. I repeat, collision course, Moonbase.

STRAKER
(to Lake)
They're using Regan to destroy Moonbase.
(to Barry on monitor)
Instruct interceptors one and two, pursue and destroy interceptor three.

BARRY
(surprised, on monitor)
Say again, sir?

STRAKER
(angry)
You heard me correctly, Lieutenant.

INTERIOR : MOONBASE CONTROL SPHERE

BARRY
Yes, sir.
(to microphone)
Interceptor one and two, destroy, repeat, destroy interceptor three.

EXTERIOR : SPACE
Interceptor three is heading for the Moon. Interceptors one and two begin to turn to pursue. Suddenly, they have no power and are adrift.

INTERIOR : INTERCEPTOR 1

STEVE
(testing switches)
Something's wrong, no power.

INTERIOR : INTERCEPTOR 2

AL
Same with me. Nothing.

INTERIOR : SHADO CONTROL

STRAKER
(to Lake)
Find that animal!

LAKE
We'll never find it in time.

STRAKER
Try!

FOSTER
Wait a minute. The dogs.

FLASH TO: Memory of dogs in studio.

RESUME SCENE

STRAKER
(calmer)
That's it. Get onto it.

Lake hurries away.

EXTERIOR : SPACE
Interceptor 3 approaches Moonbase.

INTERIOR: INTERCEPTOR 3
Regan sits back, arms folded across his chest, hands flat, as if preparing for burial. A cats-eye shaped light shines on his forehead.

EXTERIOR : HARLINGTON-STRAKER STUDIOS LOT.
A dozen dogs are running around, barking, chasing the Siamese cat.

EXTERIOR: CAT
The cat hisses and growls.

EXTERIOR : SPACE
Interceptor 3 closer to Moonbase.

INTERIOR : INTERCEPTOR 3
The light on Regan's forehead disappears and he seems to regain control on himself. He sees Moonbase through wind screen and pulls back on the controls.

EXTERIOR : LUNAR SURFACE.
Interceptor 3 barely misses Moonbase, impacting the surface nearby and exploding.

INTERIOR: SHADO CONTROL
Straker slowly walks into his office, sits down at his desk. He seems depressed. He flips the switch to close the door.


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