Batman Dark Masquerade Upload

BATMAN: DARK MASQUERADE
by
Frank D. Lawrence
--DISCLAIMER:
This screenplay is entirely fan-fiction and not associated with DC Comics or Warner Bros. in any way!
All characters belong to the respective mentioned companies! No commercial use allowed or intended.
The story is at its core an expansion of Doug Moench's story published in Batman #386, #387 and
Detective Comics #553, all issues released in the year 1985!
Leaving artists aside (just so many greats - most go without saying!), my favorite Batman writers and
thus other sources of inspiration were the works and runs of Steve Englehart, Denny O'Neil, Frank
Robbins, Bill Finger, Alan Grant/John Wagner and Mike W. Barr.
Some parts are obviously also taken from other stories such as Detective Comics #569, some concepts
or quotes have slipped in rather subconsciously without any real awareness of the original source.
This screenplay was written way before the video-game Batman: Arkham Origins, so the elements that
may appear similar to that story were not inspired by it in any way.
I approached this screenplay as the foundation of a Batman reboot, as the first movie from where a
better planned franchise could develop from. But so far I have not written a sequel to the story - albeit I
have many ideas and perhaps the thoughtful reader will spot the planned villain(s) for that story.
This is mainly just what you'd call a first draft, I have written this over three nights and only glimpsed
over it. The beginning may be a little bit clunky but then I think it gets a lot better. Of course, some
parts of the plot should have been expanded or cut, some scenes should be moved to other positions,
and so on. Perhaps some of the nods to past Batman writers and artists are a little bit cheesy, a little bit
to on the nose, but in the end it was just fun to me.
So... have fun, too!
(If you liked or hated it - please feel free to write me: FrankDLawrence@aol.com)
"BATMAN: DARK MASQUERADE"

FADE IN:
EXT. NIGHTLIFE MILE -- NIGHT
Welcome to GOTHAM CITY, a large behemoth of concrete and
people. The skyline gives a glimpse of his sheer size as
the moon shines bright to illuminate the skyscrapers of the
town. In the distance are dark figure with a cape is
standing, hardly noticeable. Going down from the skyline
it's filled with life. Cars and pedestrians, cinemas, night
clubs with a waiting crowd full of barely dressed people...
It's a hot and dry summer night!
The drive through Gotham's nightlife continues! In the
alley there might be people that remind some of pimps,
hookers and drug dealers. There's some trash and cracked
buildings. The dark silhoutte seen before is swinging down
on some sort of rope in the distance. Barely visible in the
light emitted by the streetlights that aren't that useful
that evening because of the strong moonshine.
The walk through the city stops at a building block and
it's backyard. Three people are doing something at a steel
door. As they open it one of the people - who are dressed
in dark coats - becomes the eyes of the scenery as they
enter the building and activate their flashlight.
INT. BUILDING STAIRWAY -- CONTINUOUS
A stairway made of ordinary steel is lit by the
flashlights. The men take the walk upstairs. Fast. Their
steps make metallic noises.
ROBBER 1
(flustering)
Quick. Quick.
After two stages the reach the door of their destination.
One of the guys tries to open the door but it is locked.
ROBBER 2
Your turn.
One of the guys kneels down and pulls out a tool. Five
seconds later the door is open and all three enter.
INT. BUILDING STORAGE -- CONTINUOUS
The three men walk forward. In the glimpse of their
flashlight are lots of wooden boxes and other typical
storage accessoirs. After movements that indicate search
the light flickers and goes off. The room is filled with
darkness.
2.
ROBBER 1
Great.
ROBBER 2
Wait. I know where the lightswitch
is.
ROBBER 1
I hope HE doesn't see us.
The robber moves away. After a few seconds a CLICK is to be
heard and the bright, unpleasing lamps flicker three times
with a BUZZ noise and then the whole room is lit. Full room
equipment is seen. Just as before. Mainly boxes. But in the
distance there is a large window that is open and gives
sight to the skyline and the bright moon.
ROBBER 2
They left the window open?
ROBBER 1
Happens.
ROBBER 2
I want to finish this as quick as
possible.
One of the guys walks behind some of the boxes and out of
sight of his comrades.
ROBBER 2 (CONT'D)
Got it! I need a hand here. It's
pretty heavy!
The other robber goes into the direction. Robber 3 just
watches as they return, carrying a long box.
ROBBER 1
Now let's bring this down!
KLING! One of the lamps goes out and the sound of a
metallic object hitting the ground occurs! The room becomes
dimer! The shocked robbers let the box crash to the ground
- exposing its content. Their heads turn around into the
direction of the noise. They take their guns out of their
pockests. But this is of no use now.
Out of the newly-formed shadow a VICIOUS
jumps directly at the passive robber who
with white-glowing eyes as he receives a
strikes him to the ground. From there he
unfold!
ROBBER 2
Oh no!
BEAST emerges and

only sees a shadow
punch which
watches the scene
3.
It's fast! His colleagues shoot at the dark apparition but
they can't hit it as he disarms them with sophisticated
moves! Terrible SCREAMS! Confusion! One of the robbers
graps a crowbar and tries to hit the attacker but no
chance! A CLICK is heard and out of the view of the robber.
Then the shadow of the mysterious creature falls into his
face, holding a shining object - handcuff-like, drags him
to a near post and ties him to it! In the background POLICE
SIRENS start. With his eyelids falling down slowly he
watches their attacker running towards the open window,
noticing a cape and a bat-like appearance with pointy ears
and jumping out the window without hesitation! Then
everything goes DARK!
EXT. STREETS OF GOTHAM -- CONTINUOUS
A dark-painted car is starting up as it leaves the shadows
in the narrow corner between two concrete walls. A short
glimpse of a futuristic, animalistic design as it leaves
for the night and hits the streets. As its drive goes on
for a while, the specific features disappear and even the
color changes into a glowing red.
At the same time the driver is hardly seen from the front
window, finishing his transformation as he throws a dark
cowl with a cape into the back of the car. The journey
through GOTHAM CITY goes on.
What was a nightlife centre before now turns into a more
noble district of the city! Tall buildings made almost
entirely of glass, crazy architecture that just breathe
luxury and wealth!
On the wall a poster is seen. It says JANUS COSMETICS,
featuring a beautiful girl with notale makeup. Next to it
another poster says "VOTE HANEY" and shows a young male.
Yet another one shows an elder, more obese man with grey
hair, semi-bald. "VOTE THORNE"! But these are just details!
The car comes to an halt and the driver gets out. It's
BRUCE WAYNE. His features are barely visible in the modest
light of the street lamps. Mid-20s. Tall. Dark-Haired.
Handsome. Well-Built. Expensive-looking suit. Well-Dressed.
He walks towards a skyscraper and presses the button. Then
he disappears into the building.
INT. JULIE'S APARTMENT -- CONTINUOUS
The door opens. Bruce Wayne enters. The apartment is hardly
lit. A sofa with a person lying on it is watching the TV.
TV SCREEN: A heated debate is going on. A young blond girl
is the host. It's VICKI VALE. The discussion is mostly
BACKGROUND NOISE at the moment.
4.
The person on the sofa is standing up. JULIE MADISON is a
dark-haired lady, the same age as Bruce Wayne.
JULIE MADISON
Bruce? Bruce? Is it you?
Bruce walks towards her and she walks towards him. Now both
of them are completely visible.
BRUCE WAYNE
Yes. Hi, Julie. Excuse me if I
scared you. It's a hobby of mine.
He goes forwards hugs her, kisses her. Both go down to the
sofa.
JULIE MADISON
Want something to drink?
BRUCE WAYNE
No. I'm just tired.
JULIE MADISON
Okay, playboy billionaire.
They focus on the TV screen.
TV SCREEN: Next to the host are three other persons. One is
a balding man, middle-age, glasses with a very specific
headshape. A mad scientist look. It's HUGO STRANGE.
The next one is apparently a decade older. A guy probably
been tough-looking in his younger days but no old and with
a grey mustache. POLICE COMMISSIONER JAMES W. GORDON.
Completing the round is a blond and handsome man, end-30s.
A face of integrity. Mayor of Gotham City. CHARLES HANEY.
HUGO STRANGE
The fact remains. The Batman is a
dangerous psychopath! You two
backing him up is irresponsible!
Reassign the SWAT teams to catch
this madman!
MAYOR HANEY
Not on my watch! The Batman's done
more good than bad to this city!
HUGO STRANGE
That's about to change! He will
snap and become a menace to
innocent people!
5.
JAMES GORDON
Absolutely ridiculous! In just 14
months he brought down the most
important criminal empires of
Gotham!
VICKI VALE
And I might add, made Gotham City a
hip place and attracted lots of
people!
HUGO STRANGE
Yes. Madmen like him becoming
tourist attractions! A sign of a
decaying society.
VICKI VALE
Mayor Haney, is there some truth to
it that the government signed a
secret document that makes the
Batman a semi-legal agent of the
law?
MAYOR HANEY
Well. Cannot comment on that.
REFOCUS AWAY FROM TV SCREEN: Julie is looking at Bruce.
JULIE MADISON
So the city is trying to cooperate
with a self-righteous facist?
BRUCE WAYNE
Hmmpf.
JULIE MADISON
All you can say? The government is
turning civil rights to the garbage
bin and returns to frontier justice.
BRUCE WAYNE
Julie, please. I am sure Batman is
a good guy. I am tired.
JULIE MADISON
I guess you are right. We need to
be ready for tomorrow.
TV SCREEN:
VICKI VALE
So now. What about the idenity of
Gotham's new protector? Who could
he be in real life?
6.
A light from outside the window falls shortly on Bruce's
face.
JAMES GORDON
We have no clue. He might not even
be human.
HUGO STRANGE
You know more than you admit.
MAYOR HANEY
I don't care. Don't care if he's
really an anthromorphic duck in a
bat costume or... Rupert Thorne.
Laughter at the studio. Hugo Strange looks grumpy.
MAYOR HANEY (CONT'D)
He's out there doing good. That's
all that counts.
VICKI VALE
And that's the end of this show.
Without a doubt the Batman will
remain a highly controversial topic
for months to come. As a fact,
crime rates dropped because of him.
But is there moral legimitacy to
his methods?
Camera angle changes as she turns her head.
VICKI VALE
We couldn't solve this today.
Thanks, Commissioner Gordon, Doctor
Hugo Strange and of course, Mayor
Haney. Next week we'll discuss
another hot topic: The world's most
important politicians are visiting
Gotham City in a few weeks as the
next UNITED NATIONS summit is
taking place here!-Bruce graps the remote and turns the TV off. He looks to
his left. Julie has fallen asleep.
EXT. CEMETARY - WAYNE'S GRAVE -- DAY
Hundreds of people on an old and moody cemetary. Like the
farewell to a beloved king. Even a TV team led by Vicki
Vale is there. The gravestones are partially hidden in the
slight fog and gargoyles can be seen on some of them.
The procession seems over. At the hole the sarcofago which
is labelled "WAYNE" is lowered as a priest is saying the
last words. Next to the whole there is Bruce Wayne with a
7.
stoic face, watching. Other people in the front are Julie
Madison and an elderly black women named LESLIE THOMPKINS.
In the background a suspicious man in with a brown-ish
suit glances at Bruce.
A view at the gravestone reveals the name "PHILIPP WAYNE
(1954 - 2014)" But above them Bruce gains focus on another
set of names: "MARTHA WAYNE (1958 - 1993)" and "THOMAS
WAYNE (1957 - 1993)". As the sarcofago hits the ground
Bruce blinks. Everything becomes blurry and Philip Wayne's
name seems to disappear.
BACKFLASH - SAME PLACE - 20 YEARS EARLIER
In the place of Bruce Wayne is now a 6 year old boy with a
face of grief. No Julie, but a younger Leslie holding the
arm on his shoulders. Another person is also there, portly
and stoic. PHILIPP WAYNE.
END FLASHBACK
Our trio walks away from the grave. Standing there a man
comes to them an shakes Bruce's hand.
CEMETARY GUEST
I'm sorry, Bruce. Your uncle was a
great man.
Bruce only nods as his mind returns again to the past.
BACKFLASH
Same scene as above but different time and one person
exchanged. Leslie hugs the young Bruce Wayne and turns to
Philipp.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Take good care of the boy.
PHILIPP WAYNE
I'll do what I can.
YOUNG BRUCE
Can't I live with you instead,
Leslie?
LESLIE THOMKINS
I'll always be there for you.
END BACKFLASH
EXT. CEMETARY - THE EXIT -- CONTINUOUS
People pass through the ancient door and in the distance
cars leave. Leslie, Bruce and Julie are standing together.
8.
BRUCE WAYNE
I need some time alone. Julie, I
guess Leslie can take you to Wayne
Manor.
JULIE MADISON
Okay.
Bruce returns to the cemetary to disappear into the shadows
and fog.
LESLIE THOMKINS
The death of his uncle hits him
harder than I thought.
JULIE MADISON
I guess it's the feeling that is
past is dying.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Well, I would like that.
JULIE MADISON
What do you mean.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Nevermind. Let's go.
EXT. CEMETARY - WAYNE'S GRAVE -- CONTINUOUS
Bruce returns and kneels down. A tear crawls down his face.
The fog is getting stronger. After a short moment he gets
up and again and notices someone to his right! A man is
coming out of the darkness while to Bruce the shape of the
fog is turning into concrete to create the image of his
backflash.
BACKFLASH - EXT. DARK ALLEY - NIGHT
From a lower view, a young Bruce Wayne's eyes focus on the
darkness in a narrow alley somewhere in Gotham City. He
turns to the right to see his mother, MARTHA WAYNE and then
to the left to look at his father, THOMAS WAYNE. He's
holding there hands.
Suddenly out of the darkness a shape becomes noticeable as
it turns out to be a full-grown man with an old, worn hat and a gun! The face is obscured. THE SHAPE.
Hesitation and shock on all of them. The man approaches
them.
THE SHAPE
Money.
9.
Thomas Wayne reaches into his pocket and gives it to him.
But the man doesn't stop and takes a look at Martha,
pointing his gun at her.
THE SHAPE (CONT'D)
Well, well. What about a little
extra?
He tries to take Martha's pearl necklace but a furious,
adrenaline-driven Thomas Wayne graps his hand. Martha
SCREAMS. Some sort of blurry tangle between the two men
occurs and a SHOT is released. Thomas Wayne falls to the
ground. Martha is screaming even LOUDER.
THE SHAPE (CONT'D)
Shut up! This one'll shut you up!
Another gunshot. Martha goes down. The Man looks at Bruce
with his gun. But then something happens. His face shows
fear and regret and he starts to run away. The concrete
walls become fog again and everything turns back into the
present!
END FLASHBACK
The man comes nearer. Bruce tensens. But then everything
relaxes. It's the man in the brown suit. A clear look into
his face reveals ROMAN SIONIS, same age as Bruce, but
facially a lot softer.
ROMAN SIONIS
Bruce Wayne.
BRUCE WAYNE
Roman! Roman Sionis!
ROMAN SIONIS
It's been a long time!
BRUCE WAYNE
What are you doing here?
ROMAN SIONIS
Well, I knew your uncle!
BRUCE WAYNE
I guess so. What were you doing the
last years?
ROMAN SIONIS
Europe. Studying. I am overtaking
my parents old company.
BRUCE WAYNE
Heard about their death. My pity.
10.
ROMAN SIONIS
I am grown man now, Bruce. I can
handle it. You could do it and you
were just a small kid.
BRUCE WAYNE
I guess everything has to change.
ROMAN SIONIS
Don't take this wrong but I am not
without selfish reasons to approach
you here.
BRUCE WAYNE
Yeah?
ROMAN SIONIS
I'd wanted you to ask if I could
visit the funeral feast.
BRUCE WAYNE
Why that?
ROMAN SIONIS
Well, Philipp Wayne was a
well-known philanthropist. I'll
could make some good contacts. I've
been away from Gotham for a long
time.
BRUCE WAYNE
Do what you want.
ROMAN SIONIS
Good to have friends, Bruce!
BRUCE WAYNE
Should I take you with me?
ROMAN SIONIS
No. My fiancee is waiting in the
car already.
BRUCE WAYNE
Congratulations.
ROMAN SIONIS
You'll like her.
BRUCE WAYNE
Okay. Excuse me. My guests are
waiting.
ROMAN SIONIS
Until later. I have some business
to attend to.
11.
Bruce nods and leaves. Roman takes a final look at him and
then departs into another direction.
EXT. CEMETARY - SIONIS CRYPT -- CONTINUOUS
Roman passes the graves. Then he stands still and takes a
look at this large monument. The Sionis Crypt. Family name
large above the wooden door. It's like a Greek temple,
twiners grown upwards, some fissures here and there as it
is surrounded by cold, rising steam. Roman takes a deep
look at it as his face turns colder and colder. Finally he
graps a rock and throws it onto the crypt wall.
EXT. WAYNE MANOR -- NIGHT
Like a remnant of an aristocratic civilization Wayne Manor
rises at a cliff in front of a large river. Windows are
glowing bright, lots of people can be seen behind them. In
front there are lots of cars.
INT. WAYNE MANOR - FRONT HALL -- CONTINUOUS
The architecture seems like a logical conclusion of the
outside but it has been transformed. There are hundreds of
party guests, drinking and laughing. A large banner
celebrating Philipp Wayne's life hangs over them. Many of
the crowd members of the funeral are present. Two police
officers are there to protect the crowd.
AT THE STAIRS:
At a good distance from the people hot spots, overweight,
mid-30s, unshaven detective HARVEY BULLOCK and his partner,
ELLEN YIN, 20-something apparently with heritage from the
orient.
HARVEY BULLOCK
What kind of job is it? Protecting
those worthless rich snobs? We
should be out there hunting the
Batman! What is the old man
thinking?
Bullock musters Ellen Yin in her form-fitting uniform.
ELLEN YIN
And what is the fat man thinking
when he looks at me, Bullock? Not
that I disagree with you. Gordon
does this because we disagree with
him on his weird friend.
AT THE DINNER PLATE
12.
Various famous person gathered and standing. Mayor Haney is
hidden in the ground arguing with Hugo Strange again. Also
with them Bruce Wayne, Julie Madison and Leslie Thomkins.
HUGO STRANGE
I tell you all... the Batman...
MAYOR HANEY
Didn't we have this yesterday, Dr.
Strange? Enough already. What about
your latest research.
HUGO STRANGE
Like you would care. You are just a
shallow politician.
MAYOR HANEY
Bruce. Did you ever have session
with Gotham City's private high
society psychologist?
BRUCE WAYNE
No. I don't think I need one.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Sure?
HUGO STRANGE
Well, Mr Wayne. Sooner or later I
get them all.
MAYOR HANEY
Excuse me. I have to talk to my
wife, I guess.
Haney leaves the round. Just at this moment Vicki Vale in a
blue-green dress approaches the round.
VICKI VALE
Bruce Wayne. The main attraction of
Gotham City. At least for the women.
JULIE MADISON
Too bad he is taken.
Hugo Strange just shakes his head and turns towards other
people.
VICKI VALE
What a pity. The stud and the
frigid wanna-be actress.
JULIE MADISON
At least I haven't slept my way up
like some person in this round.
13.
VICKI VALE
Dating Bruce Wayne might count as
well.
BRUCE WAYNE
Ladies. Please. The funeral of my
uncle isn't really the place for
that.
VICKI VALE
Well. Brucie. You can call me
anytime.
She turns around and disappears into the crowd.
HUGO STRANGE
How does it feel to lose a father
figure again, Mr. Wayne?
BRUCE WAYNE
My uncle and I weren't exactly that
close, Doctor. Leslie became my
mother in the years after my
parents death.
Suddenly the discussion is interrupted. The main entrance
door of Wayne Manor opens and entering is Roman Sionis but
also someone else. A beauty dressed in exotic wardrobe that
comulates the focus of every men in the room with the time
as she and her Roman walk toward the crowd. Her flawless
facebears the shine of some minor tribalfake tattoos yet
she appears somewhat cold. Roman directs them towards Bruce
Wayne.
ROMAN SIONIS
Bruce. I'm back.
BRUCE WAYNE
I assume this beatiful girl is your
fiancee we talked about?
ROMAN SIONIS
Yes. Let me introduce you to CIRCE.
BRUCE WAYNE
Circe?
CIRCE
Just Circe. My model name. I like
it. But you can call me like you
want.
ROMAN SIONIS
It fits. She's truly a witch.
14.
BRUCE WAYNE
I understand. Well. Roman, this is
my fiancee Julie Madison.
JULIE MADISON
Nice to meet you.
ROMAN SIONIS
And... Leslie! Nice to see you
again.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Mr Sionis.
ROMAN SIONIS
We know us for so long. Just call
me Roman.
BRUCE WAYNE
So. Roman. Circe. Where have you
met?
ROMAN SIONIS
When I was studying in Europe about
five years ago. Actually she is the
new face of the big JANUS Cosmetics
Marketing Campaign.
BRUCE WAYNE
The new make-up. I have seen the
pictures. I guess with a girl like
you it must be a success.
ROMAN SIONIS
We'll see tomorrow when the market
introduction starts. Tell you
something, Bruce, a lot of the
Sionis private assets went into the
restauration of Janus.
Circe and Bruce Wayne make deep eye contact. Roman notices
and becomes jealous.
ROMAN SIONIS (CONT'D)
And you and Mrs. Madison? Where
have you met?
JULIE MADISON
The theatre. I work there.
Julie isn't very appalled by Sionis which he notices.
BRUCE WAYNE
And a great one she is.
15.
Julie looks a Bruce. A look of love. Circe eyes Julie
aggressively. Roman notices again.
ROMAN SIONIS
Circe. Why don't you use your magic
and promote our new product to the
rich and famous?
CIRCE
As you wish.
Circe nods and starts to talk to various people.
BRUCE WAYNE
You are using my uncle's funeral to
promote your products?
ROMAN SIONIS
C'mon.
BRUCE WAYNE
What?
ROMAN SIONIS
It's not that your uncle was a nice
person. I know it. You know it. He
didn't care for you. Leslie did.
Not him.
BRUCE WAYNE
Well. He did a lot of good for
Gotham.
ROMAN SIONIS
A fake philanthropist. In fact he
was an egomanic. And an alcoholic.
BRUCE WAYNE
Roman. This isn't appropriate.
ROMAN SIONIS
You are right. Excuse me. I am just
trying to turn my campaign into a
big success.
BRUCE WAYNE
Alright. Let's cool down. If you
excuse me. I need to relax. It's
been a little bit too much today.
Bruce's face saddens and he rushes to the stairs to
disappear in the upper etages of Wayne Manor.
JULIE MADISON
What is it with him?
16.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Don't worry. Enjoy yourself. I'll
look after him.
Leslie lays her hand on Julie's shoulder just to follow
Bruce. Roman Sionis opens his mouth to talk to Julie but
she just makes a rejecting gesture.
INT. WAYNE MANOR - PRIVATE ROOM -- CONTINUOUS
A simple room. Some old furniture. Old remnants of a torn
poster featuring a clown are at the wall. Bruce sits on a
bed. In front of him there's a box with some toys. He graps
and action figure as his mind goes back to his childhood.
FLASHBACK - SAME PLACE - 20 YEARS EARLIER
Young Bruce Wayne is holding the same action figure but
it's in a much better condition. Next to him there's
another boy. A young Roman Sionis. The door is slightly
open. VOICES of adults can be heard.
ROMAN SIONIS
You know what. My parents are liar.
BRUCE WAYNE
What do you mean?
ROMAN SIONIS
My parents are so nice to yours.
But I heard them talk. They are
friends with your parents because
they think they gain some use out
it. They hate your parents.
BRUCE WAYNE
Well...
ROMAN SIONIS
And I hate my parents! They aren't
as friendly to me. Just to other
people. It's like they wear masks!
You know what, Bruce, you are my
only friend. The only one who likes
me.
BRUCE WAYNE
Thanks, Roman.
ROMAN SIONIS
And that's why you give me that
figure now!
Roman grabs Bruce's hand and tries to pull the figure out
of it. Bruce struggles.
17.
BRUCE WAYNE
No. It's mine.
Fight intensifies. Roman Sionis starts to raise the level
and starts to punch him in the face. Furious rage in his
face as Bruce is about to cry.
BRUCE WAYNE (CONT'D)
Take the figure. Stop!
But Roman just gets angrier. Then a shadow appears on the
door.
LESLIE THOMKINS (V.O.)
Boys? What is going on.
Both combatants shiver as Leslie enters the room.
BRUCE WAYNE
Nothing.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Old rascals.
Leslie leaves again but a close look at Bruce reveals that
he is bleeding from his nose.
END FLASHBACK
The older Leslie Thomkins is standing on the door and
enters. She sits down next to him and lays his hands around
his shoulder. As she wants to start to speak something is
BEEPING. Bruce pulls a cellphone out of his pocket.
The display says AUNT HARRIET. Bruce is pushing a number
combination into the touchscreen and a BATMAN logo appears.
A short text is under it: MEET ME AT THE POLICE MORGUE.
Without words Bruce gets up.
BRUCE WAYNE
Tell my guests I fell asleep.
He vanishes.
AT THE STAIRS:
Circe and Roman stand on the stairs and watch the crowd.
ROMAN SIONIS
Disgusting. Look at them. Shallow
people trying to pretend they are
someone else. Just like my parents
did.
18.
CUT TO:
INT. WAYNE MANOR - UPPER ETAGE HALLWAY -- CONTINUOUS
A clinical looking long floor with a tall grandfather clock
in the middle. Bruce Wayne stands in front of it, does
something with the pointers and an OPENING NOISE is heard.
He opens the clock which reveals a downward stair.
CUT TO:
CIRCE
And we are different?
ROMAN SIONIS
Not sure.
CIRCE
Aren't you sure about me?
Roman hugs her, kisses her on the forehead.
CIRCE (CONT'D)
What about Bruce Wayne?
ROMAN SIONIS
Do you think I didn't notice your
reaction to him?
CIRCE
What do you mean?
ROMAN SIONIS
Well. He is kinda handsome. But
like everything in his life his
looks have been given to him for
free.
CUT TO:
INT. WAYNE MANOR - BATCAVE
-- CONTINUOUS
A quick view of a underground liar of boyish childhood

dreams. A cave with a giant computer system. Bats are
flying at the distance. Ravines and cliffs. Then out of the
shadows comes an almost mythological figure - THE BATMAN.
Grey costume with a large cape. As he walks to an formerly
unseen place where his dark car stands.
CUT TO:
19.
CIRCE
And yours?
ROMAN SIONIS
I am about to create something
bigger than my parents ever could.
I am turning an almost-bankrupt
company into a global player. With
you.
Leslie passes them by as she goes down the stairs. She
approaches the crowd.
AT THE DINNER PLATE
Leslie walks towards Julie.
JULIE MADISON
What's up with Bruce?
LESLIE THOMKINS
Tired. Sick. Felt asleep.
CUT TO:
EXT. LANDROAD BY WAYNE MANOR -- CONTINUOUS
A narrow alley that features some sickly, almost decaying
trees to its sides. In the distance WAYNE MANOR can be
seen, brightly lit. The full moon shines at the OWLS at the
trees as the BATMOBILE bursts through some plant life from
the side to hit the street and scares them away.
CUT TO:
JULIE MADISON
Should I look after him?
LESLIE THOMKINS
No. He told me that you should
sleep at home today. He has to get
up early tomorrow?
JULIE MADISON
Again? This is the third time in
the last few days? What is he doing?
LESLIE THOMKINS
Business, I guess.
20.
INT. POLICE MORGUE
-- NIGHT
A typical room for a fit for dissection. Cold tables.

Tools. Barely lit. In front of a table where a body is
covered by a white blanket Gordon stands, just lighting up
his pipe. He turns his head to the right and spots two
white-glowing eyes in a shadow. He drops his pipe and
Batman comes to reveal himself.
JAMES GORDON
Goddamn. One day I'll die from a
stroke because of you.
BATMAN
That. Or cancer.
JAMES GORDON
Oh well.
BATMAN
What do we have, Jim?
JAMES GORDON
Best to see it with your own eyes.
Gordon turns around to reveal the body beyond the blanket
to reveal the upper part. It's a shocking sight! A human
with large, almost bursted eyes.
BATMAN
Some new drug on the street?
JAMES GORDON
Something was in his blood. But our
chemists couldn't work it out. But
that isn't everything.
BATMAN
What is it?
JAMES GORDON
We found a human finger in his
stomache.
BATMAN
That ugly and not a vegeterian. I
am impressed.
JAMES GORDON
And...
Gordon fully reveals it. The hands of the corpse are oddly
shaped, like claws. On his chest are four bullet wounds.
BATMAN
What the hell?
21.
JAMES GORDON
What we thought, too.
BATMAN
Any identification on this man?
JAMES GORDON
No.
BATMAN
Who killed him?
JAMES GORDON
Don't know. Some pedestrians found
his body in Robbins Alley.
Batman takes the hand of the man and a CLICK is heard.
BATMAN
Anything else you got?
JAMES GORDON
No. We are standing--Gordon looks around. His friend is gone.
JAMES GORDON (CONT'D)
---in the dark.
EXT. ROBBINS ALLEY -- NIGHT
The Batmobile drives along a very ugly part of Gotham City.
Bums and trash. It stops. Two thugs eye the expensive car
as something they want. Then the shadowy figure that is the
Batman comes out it. The thugs instinctively walk a step
backwards. Then they freeze in fear. Batman walks by them.
A little smile, barely noticeable, might be noticeable.
The Caped Crusader approaches a bar called BURLAN BAR. A
huge, red-haired bouncer is at the door. As Batman wants to
enter he walks into his way.
BOUNCER
No. This is not a costume party.
INT. BURLAN BAR -- CONTINUOUS
The Burlan Bar is a shaddy place full of suspicious
audience. Passed jailtime in the air, alcohol and smoke.
But then everyone looks at the entrance as the head of the
bouncer crashes through the glass window of the bar's door.
The door opens and Batman enters to walk down some stairs
to the main bar. He talks to the barman, an overweight bald
guy.
22.
BATMAN
O'Neil. Is Rhonda here tonight?
In a distant corner a guest of the house graps a bar stool
and runs at Batman.
O'NEIL
Yes. Basement. But she's got-The man with the stool tries to smash Batman but is knocked
out by him. The Batman isn't even looking as he puts his
fist up to smash his face.
O'NEIL (CONT'D)
--a costumer. Dude. You know that
you make people aggressive.
Batman just passes by and walks down a circular stair.
INT. BURLAN BAR - BASEMENT -- CONTINUOUS
Same furntiture style as in the etage above but it's empty.
Except for two people. A saucily-dressed woman with some
jewelry and a man in a suit who just stars at the chest of
the woman. As he notices Batman as the stairs are creaking.
With a surprised look he gets up and walks upstairs.
BATMAN
Senator Robbins. Greetings to your
wife.
Batman completes his descent and takes the stool next to
the woman.
BATMAN (CONT'D)
Rhonda. I need information.
RHONDA
That's boring. A man like you would
be a nice costumer.
BATMAN
Do you know something about a new
drug?
RHONDA
What do I get for it?
BATMAN
Same as always. A kiss.
RHONDA
You know that I don't do the nasty
stuff.
23.
Batman pulls out a hundred dollar bill and lies it to the
table.
RHONDA (CONT'D)
You know where to put it.
Batman takes it and puts it into her clevage.
BATMAN
Talk.
RHONDA
Yes. There is something new on the
streets.
BATMAN
What's the deal with it?
RHONDA
Some of my clients told me about
it. Highly hallucinogenical. No
side effects.
BATMAN
Well. Apparently it raises the
appetite... Is there something you
know about cannibals running around
in these streets?
Batman pulls out another bill and puts in the place.
RHONDA
Well. Charlie told me about
something. Some sort of madmen
attacked him when he and a friend
were leaving for home one night.
BATMAN
And one of the lost an arm?
RHONDA
And his life. Charlie killed that
guy he told me. And run away.
BATMAN
Where is this Charlie?
Third bill.
RHONDA
He's a honest guy on parole. He
knows nothing about this thing.
He's trying to raise his family.
Don't scare the poor guy any
further.
24.
BATMAN
I see. And carrying a gun in this
area is hardly surprising. Then do
you know where this drug is coming
from? Or someone who used it?
Fourth bill.
RHONDA
It isn't widespread yet. I have to
disappoint you.
Batman gets up and turns around. He turns his head towards
Rhonda one last time and raises his left finger.
BATMAN
Keep your ears open. And...
RHONDA
What?
BATMAN
Stay out of trouble!
Up the Batman goes and disappears.
INT. BURLAN BAR -- CONTINUOUS
As Batman returns at a bar stool the bouncer is being
nursed back to health by a woman. Instead four well-built
man have gathered with knives. They race towards Batman but
the Dark Knight disarms all of them ina short brawl. Batman
gets to the door and enters the darkness of the outside
world.
O'NEIL
Guys. Just give up. Three tries are
enough.
EXT. WAYNE ENTERPRISES -- DAY
The sun sets and shines on the Wayne Enterprises Building.
The name large on this unusal architecture. Several hundred
metres high with the part in the middle missing, just
connecting in the last fifty metres. In the free place a
large tree is growing.
Through the windows busy office workers are seen. Next to
building there are other skyscrapers. Certainly a wealthy
district.
INT. WAYNE ENTERPRISES WAYNE OFFICE -- CONTINUOUS
A large office but remarkeable spartan in a Bauhaus way. At
the desk Bruce Wayne is sitting in front of a computer. His
face is tired and grumpy as he hacks something into the
25.
keyboard. The door opens and Leslie comes in and takes the
visitor stool in front of Bruce's desk. She looks him into
the eyes but Bruce barely responds.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Long night?
BRUCE WAYNE
Hmmm.
LESLIE THOMKINS
How on Earth can you run your
family's multibillion dollar
enterprise when you never get
enough sleep?
BRUCE WAYNE
I have my people for that.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Then what are you doing right now?
BRUCE WAYNE
A case.
LESLIE THOMKINS
I should have guessed.
Bruce shortly turns his head into Leslie's direction just
to revert it back seconds later.
BRUCE WAYNE
You know something about a new
drug? Any patients in your clinic?
LESLIE THOMKINS
Only the usual Crime Alley stuff.
What is it this time?
BRUCE WAYNE
I don't know. I've taken a blood
probe and given it to our leading
chemist, Dr. Langstrom. If anyone
finds out what it's made of it's
him. And then I'll have my lead.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Good luck. By the way. Julie wanted
to know what kind of business you
are attending all the time. You
haven't called her in six days.
BRUCE WAYNE
Hmmmm.
26.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Hmmmm. Really, Bruce. When is this
going to end? Do you really think
your parents wanted this?
BRUCE WAYNE
I don't know.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Don't you love, Julie? Do you think
this is fair?
BRUCE WAYNE
Yes, I do. But what do you mean?
LESLIE THOMKINS
That she loves a man who could end
up dead every night. Either you
stop or you tell her and have her
decide by herself.
Bruce finally faces her eyes.
BRUCE WAYNE
Is that what's good for me or just
what you want from me?
LESLIE THOMKINS
I care for the boy you once were.
He should live a happy life. Wife
and kids. Bruce Wayne and his
family.
BRUCE WAYNE
(angrily)
But... Bruce Wayne is dead! He died
when that man killed his family.
That night.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Then if you think that way why are
you running this company?
BRUCE WAYNE
It supports being Batman. And I can
improve the streets with the
charity work of my foundations. My
life is Batman!
LESLIE THOMKINS
And Julie? Why did you fall in love
with her then?
Bruce's face grows uncomfortable. He gets up and heads for
the room's exit.
27.
BRUCE WAYNE
I... I don't know. I have work to
do.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Bruce. Where are you going to?
Bruce leaves.
EXT. JANUS BUILDING -- DAY
The neighbourhood is that of an old, decaying industrical
district. Smoke and dirt. The building is a lot smaller
than the Wayne Building but wider. Fences, production mills
and a moderately tall administration tower. A large sign
with a mask logo: JANUS CORPORATION. At the highest window
of the tower a man is standing. It's Roman Sionis.
INT. JANUS BUILDING - SIONIS OFFICE -- CONTINUOUS
The man watches over his empire. He turns around to see his
office. Pompous. Large pictures of CIRCE at the wall, some
small masks, luxurary furniture. His desk almost looking
like porcelein. Circe is laying on the ground, almost nude,
but wrapped in a blanket. Expensive opened Champagne
bottles on the ground, next to two glasses.
Roman walks towards on of them picks it up and drinks. He
looks at Circe.
ROMAN SIONIS
Success! Success! What a market
entrance. Thanks to you, my witch.
CIRCE
Well. And the style was your idea.
ROMAN SIONIS
Doesn't matter.
Roman runs and slips under the blanket to kiss Circe
passionately.
Before I met you my life seemed
so... blank. I love you.
CIRCE
I love you, too.
ROMAN SIONIS
Ever thought what would have
happened to you if I didn't get you
out of that small Ukrainian village?
28.
He kissed her again. Everything intensifies. But then.
Interruption. Door KNOCKING. Roman looks annoyed and gets
up. Circe dresses up under the blanket. He opens the door
and a blond guy is standing there. It's his assistant
HEINRICH. Tall and handsome.
HEINRICH
Packet for you, Roman.
ROMAN SIONIS
Thanks, Heinrich.
Circe has come next to Roman, just fixing the last pieces
of her dress. Heinrich takes a deep look at her and she
answers it the same way. Roman notices with an envious look
on his face.
CIRCE
Hello, Heinrich.
HEINRICH
Nice to see you, Circe.
ROMAN SIONIS
Well. Is that all?
HEINRICH
Yes.
ROMAN SIONIS
Then... goodbye.
Roman SLAMS the door. Both walk away from the door.
Good old Heinrich. Without me he
would be nothing.
CIRCE
Well, he is certainly a great
assistant to you.
ROMAN SIONIS
He just lacks this leadership
charisma I have. Anyway...
Roman walks towards another door in his office. Meanwhile
he starts to open the packet. As he enters the new room he
switches on the light to reveal the content of the room.
MASKS. Literally a hundred of him. In the packet - another
one. The room just oozes creepiness.
CIRCE
You and your masks.
29.
Roman walks deeper into the room and takes a look at his
precious collection as he puts the new one in its place.
Gruesome masks. Funny masks. Everything for every taste.
EXT. OFFICE OF DOCTOR STRANGE -- NIGHT
An ordinary psychiatrist office. Nothing that isn't
ordinary. A coach is in the middle where an elderly woman
is lying. Eyes closed. Clothing looks very first-class. A
large diamond necklace. Next to her, Hugo Strange is
sitting in a white tailcoat.
WOMAN
My houseband didn't buy me the
Allegro diamond.
HUGO STRANGE
What a pity.
WOMAN
Something is wrong. I feel
different.
HUGO STRANGE
Wait.
Hugo Strange puts out a small spray, moves it close to his
patient's nose and uses it.
HUGO STRANGE (CONT'D)
Better?
WOMAN
Oh yes. I can open my mind more
easily again.
HUGO STRANGE
Then go on.
Last time we
know, me and
way have you
make-up from
WOMAN
were in Moscow, you
my husband... By the
heard about that new
that Janus Corporation.
HUGO STRANGE
(annoyed)
Yes.
WOMAN
I think I should buy it two.
Although it also widely used by the
blue-collar people. Do you think
that's appropriate for a woman like
me.
30.
HUGO STRANGE
Now. Back to your childhood.
Strange takes out his spray again. Higher dosis. Woman
starts to BABBLING without control. Hugo Strange gets up,
looks out of the window, into the night.
(to himself)
Only 20 minutes left. Well, I guess
something more exciting is going on
out there.
EXT. GOTHAM CITY CENTRAL PLACE
-- NIGHT
A man with spikes on his neck is running. A shadow is

following him, first coming down from the sky. He runs but
he is to low. A kick takes him to the ground as the shadow
graps him. A close look reveals the identity of the
attacker: The white-glowing eyes of the Batman.
BATMAN
Where did you get that stuff from?
DEALER
Don't know.
Batman strokes him.
DEALER (CONT'D)
Stop... stop... I can't breathe...
BATMAN
That's because you are constantly
trying to say something that is of
no interest to me! WHERE?
DEALER
Please.
BATMAN
WHERE?
DEALER
Okay. Release. I'll tell you.
Batman lowers his force.
BATMAN
Well?
DEALER
It's--His voice stops. He SQUAWKS a few times.
31.
BATMAN
Are you trying to---?
SQUAWKS become stronger and stronger. The man falls into a
epileptic shock. Batman lets him fall to the ground where
he continues to ragdoll around.
BATMAN (CONT'D)
What the--?
The man passes out. Even through the Batman's mask it is
notable that he is shocked.
EXT. GOTHAM CITY MEDICAL CENTER -- NIGHT
A small skyscraper with the name MEDICAL CENTER on it.
Signs of many different doctors. Hugo Strange comes out of
the revolving door. A limosine with blackened windows is
waiting.
HUGO STRANGE
Finally.
Hugo Strange gets in.
INT. LIMOSINE CAR -- CONTINUOUS
Hugo Strange takes a seat. He looks at his driver, a man
with a typical Indian look.
HUGO STRANGE
Tell me, SANJAY, ever heard of that
new make-up?
SANJAY
What do you mean?
HUGO STRANGE
Nevermind. Bring me to our factory.
SANJAY
Yes, boss. And now that I think
about it I have heard of it.
Hugo Strange SIGHS.
HUGO STRANGE
You and everyone in my praxis the
last weeks.
INT. GORDON'S OFFICE -- NIGHT
A rusty looking small room. A window is open. Everything
screams wood. Files over files on desk. Gordon is sitting
at it, Batman is walking up and down in front of him. A man
lies in a corner. Seems dead.
32.
BATMAN
This must be some kind of
programming.
JAMES GORDON
Yes. But who is able to do
something like that?
Gordon takes a cigar out of a drawer.
BATMAN
People dropping dead when asked for
their employer. Or any other
connection. I don't know. I just
don't know.
JAMES GORDON
Meanwhile we have new... bitings.
Six citizens dead. Killed rampaging
junkies.
BATMAN
We still have a clue. In the next
days my personal analysis of the
drug might be reveal a new lead.
Gordon rotates his chair slightly left to light on the
cigar.
JAMES GORDON
Hope so. And can you please stop
harrassing the dealers?
BATMAN
You don't like it when I drop them
in your office?
JAMES GORDON
No
BATMAN
Neither do I. Every death on this
world is too much.
JAMES GORDON
Good you have that attidute.
Gordon returns his chair to the old position. His friend gone again. Gordon doesn't even react. His office door
opens and Bullock and Yin enter.
BULLOCK
The freak again!
33.
JAMES GORDON
Shut up, Bullock. Go and take this
guy with you.
Points towards the dead dealer.
INT. WAYNE MANOR - BATCAVE -- NIGHT
In his dark lair Batman is sitting with his cowl pulled
back so Bruce Wayne's head is visible. He is working on his
computer. Then a short BUZZ is heard. On the computer
screen a mail appears. Bruce studies it. Suddenly his eyes
open wide. He starts to use the keyboard frantically
opening and closing multiple windows in the next few
seconds.
Without a warning a person appears next to him. It's Leslie.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Julie is here. She wants to see you.
BRUCE WAYNE
Tell her I'll be there in five
minutes. I've found something.
LESLIE THOMKINS
What is it?
BRUCE WAYNE
Doctor Langstrom send me his
report.Hewas able to run a full
chemical analysis. Kirk is a genius.
LESLIE THOMKINS
And that means?
Bruce gets out of the majesic chair. And walks arund in the
cave.
BRUCE WAYNE
There's one ingredient, Volkoxid,
that is only in a plant in South
America. Just one company there
distributed it.
LESLIE THOMKINS
But you still don't know to whom
they sell it. And where the stuff
is acutally manufactured.
BRUCE WAYNE
Wrong. I've hacked into their
company network.
LESLIE THOMKINS
You and your skills.
34.
BRUCE WAYNE
They ship it to Gotham. Cannot be a
coincidene.I know when the next
packet is arriving.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Well. Congratulation. Know will you
greet Julie?
BRUCE WAYNE
I suppose so.
Bruce and Leslie walk up the stairs leading upwards.
LESLIE THOMKINS
You should change your clothes.
INT. WAYNE MANOR - LIVING ROOM -- CONTINUOUS
Fitting with the typical Wayne Manor style the living room
is decorated. Julie leans at the refrigator as Bruce comes
to here.
BRUCE WAYNE
Hi.
JULIE MADISON
All you got to say? You disappear
for days. Not a word.
BRUCE WAYNE
Sorry. You know.
JULIE MADISON
Business! Yeah! Bruce Wayne needs
his billions to grow!
BRUCE WAYNE
I can understand why you are mad.
JULIE MADISON
Yes? I don't know.
Bruce Wayne comes closer to here and takes her in her arms
BRUCE WAYNE
I promise that when I have this
fixed up I'll spend more time with
you again.
JULIE MADISON
Really?
Bruce takes her head with two hands and looks her deep in
her eyes. But then his face show signs of a shock.
35.
JULIE MADISON (CONT'D)
Something wrong with me?
BRUCE WAYNE
Your... your face?
Julie's face looks infectious. Small pink stains
everywhere, some skin is about to fall away at the cheeks.
INT. WAYNE MANOR - LIVING ROOM -- MOMENTS LATER
Julie sits on the coach. She is crying. Leslie is working
on her face with some medical instruments.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Don't worry. It will heal. But we
need to know what causes this
allergic reaction.
BRUCE WAYNE
Anything new you used?
JULIE MADISON
No idea. Well. Actually. Yes. Your
friend's make-up?
BRUCE WAYNE
Romans? Well, for his sake I hope
it's only you who can't stand it.
INT. JANUS BUILDING - SIONIS OFFICE -- DAY
Roman Sionis and Circe on the left of his table, Heinrich
and two other men in suits facing them.
HEINRICH
It's a disaster!
The table is full of pictures of women who were disfigured
by Sionis' make-up. Some just slightly, other massively.
Also some newspapers covering the phenomenon.
MAN IN SUIT 1
Some are damaged beyond repair. It
is all over the news and the social
networks.
MAN IN SUIT 2
Damage suit are coming. Probably
even from those without any
problems. Our products have been
totally recalled. We are fu-
36.
HEINRICH
(interrupting loudly)
-Roman. I told you that we should
have two other months of tests!
Roman looks like an ashamed child. Circe looks at him with
disgust.
MAN IN SUIT 1
The company is ruined.
CIRCE
Roman, don't you have some money
left to fix the company?
ROMAN SIONIS
Everything is in the company. My
whole family's fortune.
MAN IN SUIT 1
We will need investors to save the
company. I will start to look right
now.
ROMAN SIONIS
No. I will not lose control of my
company!
HEINRICH
Think about the workers! They will
all get unemployed if you stay that
stubborn.
ROMAN SIONIS
I don't care... Leave me alone. I
need fresh air.
Roman leaves. His shoulders are hanging.
EXT. GOTHAM CITY DOCKS -- NIGHT
The moon reflects on a greenish sea. Some old ships. Lots
of typical boxes everywhere. The pier looks frail, its
foundations are covered with shells. A few metres from it
there's a large warehouse. Barely visible in the dark
stands the Batmobile. Its door opens. The Batman gets out.
He looks at the roof of the warehouse. He reaches into his
utility belt and pulls out a gun. He aims and fires at. A
hook comes out. He uses it to climb up. He opens a window
and slips in.
INT. GOTHAM CITY DOCKS - WAREHOUSE -- CONTINUOUS
The hall is highly lit. Batman is the eyes of that scene as
he smoothly lands on some containers, stacked up almost to
37.
the ceiling. There he watches the scenery. It's a nautical
atmosphere.
Three dock workers lift a wooden box down and walk with it
forward to the warehouse's open exit gate. The Batman
follows like an unnoted shadow.
At the gate there are three man. One appears shorter, two
are remarkeable tall. All have hats and trenchcoats. Faces
aren't to be made out. The warehouse workers put the box
down and open it with a crowbar.
The Batman pulls out some binoculars and zooms in. The
content: Volkoxid, professionally packed into tight plastic
bags. Eureka!
The warehouse workers leave the group and walk out of
sight. The eyes change as the Batman is no longer the
focus. The man are talking.
SHORT MAN
Load it in the car.
Then in the shadows to the right of him, above, something
moves. He looks into that direction.
SHORT MAN (CONT'D)
It can't be.
He looks up to his two accomplices.
SHORT MAN (CONT'D)
Well. A stalker in our midst.
He reaches into his pocket and pulls out a gun to shoot at
Batman. But the Batman is already prepared and throws a
bat-shaped boomerang at the gun. He hits it and it falls to
the ground!
Batman leaps down and makes in imposing move with his cape.
He focuses his eyes on the three man.
BATMAN
Congratulations for noticing me.
You are one of the few. But this
doesn't save you now!
SHORT MAN
Perhaps not.
The short man takes some of the Volkoxid bags and attempts
to walk out of the warehouse!
BATMAN
Not so fast!
38.
Batman tries to jump at him but one of the tall man reaches
out for him, revealing a giant prank of a hand under his
trenchcoat.
The Batman is hit and crashes on a box that breaks apart
under the pressure. The short man laughs!
SHORT MAN
Get ready for something you have
never faced before! Man! Attack!
The two men take off their trenchcoats and hats. They throw
it to the ground to reveal their true appearance.
Hideous-deformed heads with extremely large bodies. They
must surely exceed 2 metres and 260 pounds. They walk
towards the smashed Dark Knight. Batman's face is filled
with fear for a short moment.
But they are slow. Batman gets up, shakingly and regains
his confidence. He throws two other boomerangs at each of
the attacker but they don't even care.
One of them tries to hit him again but Batman's agility
saves him with a roll. He pulls out a rope, throws it
around the feet of one of the monstrosities and pulls. No
reaction. He takes a short run-up and jumps with his two
legs at his chest. The monster tumbles.
The short man is watching the Batman fight and looks
enchanted. His face is still hidden by his hat and shadows.
SHORT MAN (CONT'D)
Impressive.
The other one graps a container and throws him as Batman
who can evade it. The Caped Crusader grabs a broken
container board and smashed it at the head. Meanwhile the
other guy manages to rip the rope at his legs apart and
gets up.
The two warehouse workers return to place being alarmed by
the noise. Scared of what they see they simply run away!
Cat and mouse fight continues but then Batman is hit by a
guy again. In pain he lies at the ground. One of the
monster stands above him, preparing a fatal blow. Quickly
Batman uses his rope gun, aims for the window and in the
last moment he managesto let himself pulled out of
situation by the gun's automatic wrap-up function. As he
stands near the window he walks out of it, hobblingly.
The small man whistles. His two big friends turn around.
SHORT MAN (CONT'D)
Take the box and then we are out of
here.
39.
EXT. GOTHAM CITY DOCKS -- CONTINUOUS
A beaten Batman is climbing down the wall. In the last few
metres his strength leaves him and he crashes to the
ground. He picks out some sort of remote out his belt.
Suddenly the lights of the hidden batmobile turn on and it
drives towards him. It automatically opens the door With
his last breath he gets in and pulls some buttons.
BATMAN
(exhausted)
Home.
The door closes. The car starts to drive away backwards.
THE CORNER AROUND
At the other side of the warehouse, in front of the main
gate, the two big guys are loading the box into a small
pick-up truck. The small guy moves his head around to see
if the Batman is still out there to stop them. Then all of
them get up into the car.
INT./EXT. PICK UP TRUCK -- CONTINUOUS
The short man is driving the car and the two big guys are
in the backseat. Hopelessly disproportioned. The car leaves
the docks for a road. The short man does it hat away and
the street lights reveal his true identity: HUGO STRANGE.
INT. WAYNE MANOR - BRUCE WAYNE'S BEDROOM -- DAY
Through the windows the energy of a rising sun shines at a
sleeping Bruce Wayne's face. Restlessly he turns multiple
times. KNOCKING at the wall. Bruce's eyes open. Slightly.
Sleepily he answers.
BRUCE WAYNE
What... what is it?
Leslie enters his room.
LESLIE THOMKINS
You know that you have an important
appointment today?
BRUCE WAYNE
Yes... I have overslept, haven't I?
LESLIE THOMKINS
Working day and night can have that
result. But no, you still got a one
hour. I just wanted to be sure you
are still alive.
40.
BRUCE WAYNE
Seems like I am.
Bruce gets up. Since his upper body is exposed a large
bruise on his left arm is exposed.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Bruce. Who did that to you?
BRUCE WAYNE
Long story. It's just a minor
injury.
LESLIE THOMKINS
One day you won't return.
BRUCE WAYNE
Leslie, please! You truly are a
broken record!
Bruce gets up and smiles.
Could you suggest what I should
wear today?
EXT. JANUS BUILDING -- DAY
The sun is burning brightly. A car is holding directly
before the entrance of the administration building. Two
people get up.
INT. JANUS BUILDING - FRONTHALL -- CONTINUOUS
Roman Sionis and Circe enter the hall. Circe smiles at the
receptionist. They walk towards an elevator. There are some
passing workers. Everyone of them takes a look at Roman
whose face is sunken in. Circe and Roman call the elevator
at the end.
INT. JANUS BUILDING - ELEVATOR -- CONTINUOUS
An ordinary elevator of a commercial building. Nothing too
fancy here. Circe pushes a button.
CIRCE
Roman, please listen to their offer?
ROMAN SIONIS
I will. But I'll refuse it.
CIRCE
You don't even know who it is who
wants to help you.
41.
ROMAN SIONIS
I don't care.
CIRCE
What about the people?
ROMAN SIONIS
I know. They are my men. But I
can't. I do not want to be a loser
again.
BING. Elevator stops.
INT. JANUS BUILDING - OPEN SPACE OFFICE -- CONTINUOUS
As the elevator opens and the pair gets out everyone in the
office looks at them. Some even stop working to do it. Some
glance over the cardboard walls separting the certain
workplaces. Circe and Roman walk ahead. Roman looks
uncomfortable. As he looks into their faces he can't stand
it and looks to the ground.
CIRCE
Look. They are afraid of their
future.
ROMAN SIONIS
They probably think that I am a
failure. And you, too.
They reach the end of the walk. A large door lies ahead.
Circe opens it and the two enter the next room.
INT. JANUS BUILDING - CONFERENCE ROOM
-- CONTINUOUS
A large table is there. Almost every seat is taken.

Heinrich is there and some other managers. Almost all of
them in red suits. Heinrich gets up to Roman and shakes his
hand. Then he leads him to the table.
HEINRICH
Gentlemen. This is Roman Sionis,
owner of Janus.
ROMAN SIONIS
Nice to meet you.
HEINRICH
I am sure we will reach a
conclusion that will please
everyone.
ROMAN SIONIS
(flustering to
Heinrich)
And which company is this, anyway?
42.
Just before he can answer Roman hears an all-too-familiar
voice.
BRUCE WAYNE (V.O.)
Hello, Roman!
Roman turns around. He is visibly shocked.
ROMAN SIONIS
Bruce... I don't know what to say...
BRUCE WAYNE
I am always there to help a friend.
Roman appears small. Like a little fish in a large sea.
These people in the room just dwarf him.
ROMAN SIONIS
How... how nice of you!
BRUCE WAYNE
May I introduce you to my best
employee?
Bruce turns to one of the guys on the table. A black male
is getting up and shakes Roman's hand.
Roman, meet Lucious Fox! He's the
one who handles most of these
finanical deals.
LUCIOUS FOX
I can give you good news, Mr.
Sionis! We have already made a deal
that is good for Wayne Enterprises
and your families company.
HEINRICH
You just need to sign!
ROMAN SIONIS
And how does it look?
LUCIOUS FOX
You keep your majority and Wayne
Enterprises only buys 20%. Together
we will restructure your company to
supply low price make-up.
ROMAN SIONIS
This has never been my vision of
what Janus should be.
Roman looks at Circe. Helpless expression.
43.
BRUCE WAYNE
I know that you always dreamt of
the high society.
HEINRICH
Listen, Roman! Janus is the perfect
company for a strategy like that.
Heinrich puts on an insidious smile as Roman's body
language goes worse and worse.
ROMAN SIONIS
I suppose I have no other choice
then.
LUCIOUS FOX
But there's another detail.
BRUCE WAYNE
Don't take this the wrong way.
ROMAN SIONIS
What should that be?
Bruce attempts to disguise this as friendly as possible.
BRUCE WAYNE
You will get an observer role in
the management board.
ROMAN SIONIS
Thanks. But why should I want that?
I am already the CEO.
LUCIOUS FOX
You don't seem to understand. Wayne
Enterprises doesn't think you are
seeing clearly right now and that
you need some rest from all that
responsibility.
ROMAN SIONIS
Liar! So you just want to get rid
of me? Then be honest here!
BRUCE WAYNE
It isn't like that!
Roman stamps on the ground like a little kid.
ROMAN SIONIS
Apparently it is! You take my
families legacy away from me!
44.
LUCIOUS FOX
You still own it and you are still
involved.
ROMAN SIONIS
Then who will become the new CEO?
Heinrich steps forward.
HEINRICH
That. Would be me.
ROMAN SIONIS
What?
LUCIOUS FOX
He is qualified and he's convinced
us of his abilities.
Roman's face turns into a mixture of sadness and anger. The
face of a man betrayed.
ROMAN SIONIS
Heinrich, you little-BRUCE WAYNE
Take it like a man, Roman. There's
no other way. I am sorry.
LUCIOUS FOX
Shall we sign the papers right now?
ROMAN SIONIS
I... I won't...
Roman takes a deep look into the eyes of Circe. Her eyes
sparkle.
Whatever. I'll do it. I'll do it.
INT. JANUS BUILDING - OPEN SPACE OFFICE
-- DAY
The door to the conference room opens and Roman Sionis and
Circe walk out.
ROMAN SIONIS
Heinrich! The rat!
CIRCE
Calm down. He's a good man.
ROMAN SIONIS
I made him who he is! And then he
backstabs me!
45.
CIRCE
I'm sure your company will be in
good hands.
ROMAN SIONIS
I need a vacation. Let's leave
Gotham City for a few weeks.
CIRCE
I am afraid I can't.
ROMAN SIONIS
Why?
CIRCE
Modelling job.
ROMAN SIONIS
I see. Then does it bother you if I
go alone.
CIRCE
No.
ROMAN SIONIS
Then. I'll go home and back my
backs.
Sionis hugs Circe the last time. He turns around and walks
down the path. Left and right his employers. But not really
his anymore. They look at him and to him they look at him
with mockery and digust.
EXT. SIONIS FAMILY ESTATE
-- NIGHT
Next to a green hill the Sionis Family Estate lies. Not as

big as Wayne Manor but still an imposing structure. Next to
it there's a small lake near the entrance stairs and a
forest begins close to it. Yet it looks like the last
renovation was more than 40 years ago.
There is no sign of urban madness here. The neighborhood
looks a like a typical clean and safe American suburb. A
white car rides along the street and stops next to the
Sionis estate. A man gets out - Roman.
INT. SIONIS FAMILY ESTATE - ENTRANCE AREA -- CONTINUOUS
A hard stone floor with a slightly reflecting surface throw
back the masks that are hanging at walls. Also some large
pictures of Circe. Roman walks around and looks.
ROMAN SIONIS
(screaming)
Circe? Are you here?
46.
He continues his search through the house. He passes
certain etages. He gazes in various room. One is also full
of masks, another one appears to have been the home of a
child with various toys - Roman's room. But he just passes
it. Then he hears some noises out of another room. He
approaches it.
(while walking)
Here you are. Tired eh? Well, I
could't stand being without you so
I returned-He goes speechless as he enters the bedroom.
INT. SIONIS FAMILY ESTATE - BEDROOM
-- CONTINUOUS
Roman takes a deep look. The bed features two persons,

apparently kissing and more. It's Circe and Heinrich. They
do not even notice him. As if life left him he stand there
and watches for several seconds.
ROMAN SIONIS
Circe, what--?
The two lovers turn towards him. Surprise.
CIRCE
Well, Roman, it isn't like it
looks-ROMAN SIONIS
(calmly)
At the home of my family. You. And
the rat.
Circe answers. More polite than ashamed.
CIRCE
I am sorry but-ROMAN SIONIS
Now I see. All those years. You
have just used me.
CIRCE
No, it isn't like that.
ROMAN SIONIS
You aren't even overly shocked. You
just took the chance now and left
the loser to take the winner.
You truly are a witch. An evil one.
(MORE)
47.
This has been going on a lot
longer, right?
CIRCE
Now stop it! Okay, you want the
truth? I am sick of you. Your
complexes. Your stupid masks.
ROMAN SIONIS
(apathetically)
Don't lie! You just don't need me
anymore!
HEINRICH
Roman, please stop!
ROMAN SIONIS
You dare to command me, rat?
HEINRICH
Yes.
Heinrich gets up and goes face to face with Roman. Heinrich
punches Roman in the face. He goes to the ground. Like a
whipped dog he lies on the floor.
CIRCE
Look at you, Roman. You are even to
weak to defend yourself.
A frightened Roman rises from the ground.
ROMAN SIONIS
No. No.
HEINRICH
Go, you creep.
Slowly and with a lowered head Roman runs out of the room!
HEINRICH (CONT'D)
Glad he's gone.
CIRCE
So... where did we stop?
INT. SIONIS FAMILY ESTATE - ENTRANCE AREA -- CONTINIOUS
A broken Roman runs down the stairs heading for the exit.
Faster and faster. UNCOMPREHENSIBLE WORDS come from his
mouth.
48.
EXT. SIONIS FAMILY ESTATE -- CONTINUOUS

Roman speeds into his car. Getting in. He tries to start
the car. He needs three tries. He hits the road, driving
shakenly.
INT./EXT. SIONIS CAR / OUTSIDE ROAD -- CONTINUOUS
Roman's fateful ride begins. Without control he is driving
down the road. He races full speed. No lights on in this
pitchblack night. He is delusional, moving like being
possessed by a demon.
ROMAN SIONIS
Circe. Why?
Almost crashes into another car. He takes over. His ride
passes a cliff next to a river. Still MUMBLING he reaches
over to co-driver seat. Hardly caring for the street before
he reaches into the drawer there and pulls out a gun. He
holds it to his head while racing full speed.
Roman, you deserve to die!
Then as he reaches the curve of a cliff he doesn't turn the
wheel. He races directly towards it. He destroys the
metallic street boundary and flies down towards the river.
During the flight he puts the gun to his head. He closes
his eyes but before he can shoot the car crashes onto a
rock in the river. Blackout.
EXT. RIVER SHORE
-- CONTINUOUS
The Reawakening. Roman's point of view begins under water.

He rises slowly and walks down the shore. His movements are
uncoordinated. Sloppy. Without control. He looks to the
right and shortly sees the broken street boundary, at the
other side of the river. He doesn't care.
Faster and faster does he run to the street. He reaches the
other side of it after almost being run over by a car. He
walks into scrubs, walking upwards the slight hill. He
stumbles multiple times. He still carries the gun in his
right hand.
ROMAN SIONIS
Mother. Father.
His walk through the green dungeon continues. Suddenly his
mind starts to disfunction.
SERIES OF FLASHBACKS
49.
Seeing the scared faces of a doctor and nurses from the
ground as something falls to the ground.
A giant racoon attacking.
Young Bruce Wayne looking at him.
Circe smiling at him.
His father striking out at him
END OF FLASHBACKS
As he walks on they repeat. Sometimes only one. Sometimes
more. They get faster and faster. The world around him
collapses until the darkness as him again and he blacks out
again.
EXT. CEMETARY - SIONIS CRYPT -- DAY
Roman's eyes are closed. In his right hand still the gun.
He wakes up, hit by the first lightbolts of the day. Still
lying. His eyes open slowly and he sees the charming
morning heavan. He takes the gun. To his head again. Wants
to pull.
But then it starts to rain. Slightly. Drops reach his face.
He starts to smile. He pulls the gun in his pocket and
raises his upper body. His grin gets bigger as he realized
where he is. In front of him, the large behemoth that is
the Sionis Crypt, from his positioning kinda intimidating.
He stands up. His face has a small wound but nothing mayor.
The rain is getting stronger. As is the wind, blowing his
hair up and down. He walks towards the crypt door, rattling
it. He picks up a large stone that lies there and smashes
the door. At the same time a large lightning bolt comes
down.
His descent into madness continues as he enters the crypt.
INT. SIONIS CRYPT -- CONTINUOUS
The crypt is very bleak and bare but very spacey. In the
middle there are two coffins, lying on a podest. In the
background some flames are burning. An elevated stone
platform is in the back of the crypt. At the left side some
tools are hanging.
Slowly does Roman approach the coffins.
ROMAN SIONIS
(whispering)
Mother. Father. You are dead.
Roman picks up the big stone again.
50.
And your son, Roman, died today,
too! But he has been-Roman throws the stone at one of the coffins. It breaks
apart.
(shouting)
Reborn!
He walks towards the remains. He talks a close look at the
content. A rotten corpse.
Is this your true face finally
revealed, father? Is it?
He raises his hands.
Now what? Your son is becoming
something bigger! Bigger than you
ever were! Everyone of you! Roman
Sionis' enemies will perish!
He takes a look at the tools. Then he looks at a large
piece of wood of the destroyed coffin. Takes a new look at
the tools. Walks to them. Takes the sharp knife. As he
returns to the coffins he picks up the wooden plank.
(calmly)
Yes, father. Your true legacy shows.
He sits down. Then his work begins. He starts to carve it
with the knife. Meanwhile the flickering of lightnings can
still be noticed even in the crypt.
EXT. CEMETARY - SIONIS CRYPT -- NIGHT
Two hoodlums walk between the graves, passing the dead
trees, in a good distance to the crypt which can be seen
from far away. One of them is a large bodybuilder. African
ancestry and at least 6'6''. The other one is average
height, Caucasian, but looks very atheltic. As they walk
around without any sign of orientation he takes a new look
at it.
BODYBUILDER
So where does this crazy guy live
again?
ATHLETIC GUY
A crypt.
51.
BODYBUILDER
Pretty weird.
ATHLETIC GUY
But he offers good money for
everyone who decides to follow him.
BODYBUILDER
I could need it. Good he talked to
us at our gym.
ATHLETIC GUY
Looked pretty harmless, the guy.
They reach the right place. The crypt is covered by fog.
Ravens sit on it.
BODYBUILDER
Scary sight.
ATHLETIC GUY
How can a guy like you be afraid of
something. Let's go in.
The Sionis Crypt has been refitted. In the left corner some
sort of prison area with steel bars has been reinstated.
And a large ebon mask hangs at the wall, just behind the
two coffins. Black and carved like a grotesque face.
ATHLETIC GUY
Holy.
BODYBUILDER
Where is the guy?
ATHLETIC GUY
Well. It's still two minutes left
to midnight.
BODYBUILDER
Are we the only one?
Their conversation is interrupted by a new, gravely voice.
But somewhat captivating.
BLACK MASK (V.O.)
Come near and face the death of
your identities!
The cap of the undamaged coffin opens and dark figure
rises. A brown suit with some stripes and wearing a mask a small version of the large mask hanging the wall. And he
carries a gun which he points at them.
52.
BLACK MASK
Go to the other coffin!
BODYBUILDER
I think... I think we should obey!
The two walk to the shattered coffin. The corpse is gone instead there are two masks in it. One a pretty basic flat
design, the other one is a ghastly monsterous face with
attached artifical hair.
BLACK MASK
Pick it up! Put it on!
Hesistantely they follow the orders as Black Mask's
narration continues! The big guy takes the monster mask,
the other one goes to the athletic guy.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Become the first members of the
False Face Society of Gotham City!
They complete there transformation.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Experience the feel of the end of
your previous existence!
The two guys looks uncomfortable!
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Feel the end of all your
inhibations instructed by society!
Obey me! You won't regret it!
BODYBUILDER
You... you offered us money?
BLACK MASK
Yes! Serving me will pay you well!
But try to understand my ideas! The
ideas of Black Mask!
Black Mask walks to them and lays his hand on the
bodybuilder.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Your old names are obsolete. From
now on you are Tupeng!
He turns to the other one.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
And yours will be Thepsis!
53.
THEPSIS
And what... do we have to do?
BLACK MASK
First I'll show the headquarter of
the Society. Then we will recruit
new members! And we will have to
skin the witch! Are you with me?
TUPENG
What's the pay?
BLACK MASK
500 dollars a day for you, my two
lieutenants!
THEPSIS
Deal.
INT. DRESS-UP ROOM -- NIGHT
Circe sits at the dress-up room just wearing a very small
evening dress. Looking at the mirror she seems tired after
a hard job. She's working on her make-up.
With a loud sound the door crashes in. Frightened she turns
around. And SCREAMS. Two man, Thepsis and Tupeng, complete
with masks storm into the room and grab her. She fights.
Then BLACK MASK comes in and looks at her. It looks like
his eyes are focused on her and even through the mask an
aura of sadness is emitted. A gives a sign with his
fingeres to take her out.
INT. SIONIS CRYPT
-- NIGHT
The prison cell in the Crypt has two inhabitants! It's

Heinrich and Circe. Heinrich awakes. Apparently he's been
hit at the hit, visible by the big bruise.
HEINRICH
Circe... where are we... There were
these masked men-The conversation is interrupted by Black Mask coming out of
the shadows, walking towards the prison cell
BLACK MASK
They never left. Now little rat
we'll get even!
CIRCE
Roman... is this you?
BLACK MASK
No. Roman is dead.
54.
CIRCE
Roman... what happened to you, was
it the accident?
BLACK MASK
No. It was you. You made me lose
face! You used me! You thought you
are too beautiful for a man like
me. But that is about to change.
CIRCE
We can talk this out!
BLACK MASK
Too late for that.
Black Mask WHISTLES. Tupeng and Thepsis appear. One has a
mask in his hand. The other one a small bottle. They go and
open the prison door. Tupeng grabs Heinrich and fixates his
head. Black Mask walks in to, takes the bottle out of
Thepsis' hand and pours its content into the mask. Thepsis
away from the group.
HEINRICH
Roman. What are you doing to me?
BLACK MASK
Well. It's the Janus make-up. You
know. The one so good for the skin!
Just 1,000 times more concentrated!
Black Mask takes the mask and moves it towards Heinrich's
scared faced.
HEINRICH
Please... Please!
No remorse is given. Black Mask pushes it into his face.
BLACK MASK
Hold him tight, Tupeng!
He applies more preasure. Heinrich MOANS in pain. Circe
SCREAMS.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
I guess that is enough!
Black Mask pulls the mask away. A horrifiying sight. The
skin has totally melted away.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Release him.
Thepsis obeys and what was once Heinrich falls to the
ground!
55.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Like I thought! Full-facial
treatment equals death!
Menacingly he turns to Circe.
CIRCE
Are you doing the same to me?
BLACK MASK
No. For you there's a fate worse
than death.
Thepsis has returned. In his there is another face. Cold
and plastic but still beatiful. He hands it to Circe.
CIRCE
What... what shall I do with that?
BLACK MASK
You have two choices! Put on the
mask and you will live as my queen!
Or you don't and you will follow
the rat in facing the full-facial
treatment!
Circe shudders.
CIRCE
What has become of you?
BLACK MASK
Choose!
INT. FALSE FACE SOCIETY SEWER HIDEOUT -- NIGHT
Pipes of the sewers and some rats. A formerly abandoned
place in the sewer network has become refitted. A large
stage made of wood has been installed, gruesome masks hang
everywhere. On the stage BLACK MASK stands with Tupeng and
Thepsis in the background. And next to him, Circe, now with
a mask!
At the ground some dozens of men are standing, aged between
twenty and fifty, apparently from the lower and criminal
mileus of the city!
BLACK MASK
Be welcomed to the False Face
Society of Gotham City! Together we
will celebrate the death of your
identities! Your initaton starts
now!
Tupeng opens a large box. Its content: Masks. And masks.
Thepsis and Tupeng throw them at the audience!
56.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
The power of the masks! The power
to destroy the idenity of the
wearer! Put them on! Do it!
The audience reaches for the masks and starts to put them
on. Some fast. Some with some hesitation!
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Through the sublimation of your old
self your deeper drives, your
primal instincts will drive to the
surface! This will be your
liberation!
Now everyone wears the mask!
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Reject what a cruel society made of
you! Elevate yourself! Take the
personality of the mask and we, the
shunned souls, will have our
revenge!
Black Mask's voice keeps getting more intense and intense!
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Here in this poor district of
Gotham we will start to rise! No
politicians cares but we will start
to comulate wealth! And in time we
will show the world that we exist!
Believe me!
Black Mask rises his hands far above his head!
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
I am Black Mask! Your undisputed
master! And I will make you RICH!
The crowd CHEERS.
EXT. SIONIS CRYPT -- NIGHT
Tupeng and Thepsis return to the Crypt.
TUPENG
You know. At first it was the money.
THEPSIS
I know what you mean. Black Mask
has a point!
TUPENG
I've heard this of many Society
members, too!
57.
THEPSIS
Well. Many still do it just for the
money.
TUPENG
The Society grows and grows with
every day. The Master does
something right.
They reach the entrance. They open the door and get in.
Black Mask is standing while Circe is sitting at the
platform. Thepsis and Tupeng stand there and watch Black
Mask going up and down musing.
THEPSIS
Master, you wanted to see us!
BLACK MASK
Yes! We have to take three steps
for our total victory!
TUPENG
That would be?
BLACK MASK
First of all, we will have to
finish off Roman Sionis' enemies
once and for all! The ones that
made his life miserable!
THEPSIS
Should be not all to hard.
BLACK MASK
Then we will overtake the local mob
of this district to raise our
financial level!
CIRCE
I don't understand! You still own
Janus. It's still worth something!
BLACK MASK
I don't care! I don't want the
wealth given to me anymore! I will
build an empire by my own hand! And
luckily, to my loyal servants, I
got the information that will boost
the Society in ways we could have
never dreamt of!
THEPSIS
And the last step?
58.
BLACK MASK
You'll know in time! Just now that
in the end we will be feared.
Respected. Rich. We will begin
tomorrow!
TUPENG
And the police? Or the Bat-Man?
Won't they hunt us down?
BLACK MASK
The police is the arm of the
corrupt politicians. They don't
care for Park Row! It's a breeding
ground for poverty! This is where
we will raise our army!
TUPENG
And... the Batman?
BLACK MASK
Gotham City is big. Sooner or later
we will engage him. But he will
only stop my servants. He will not
find me!
EXT. PARKING LOT -- NIGHT
A businessmen is getting into a car as three grotesquely
masked men appear out of the darkness. The businessmen
shudders. The men attack, beat him down and take his wallet.
EXT. DARK ALLEY
-- NIGHT
A man in a trenchcoat is talking to three girls. The girls

are apparently hookers from the way they are dressed. A car
stops by. The car window goes down. A masked man. He takes
a gun and shoots the man in the trenchcoat into the right
left. He falls. The masked man gets out and grabs the man
into the air!
MASKED MAN
Tell your boss that these streets
now belong to the False Face
Society of Gotham City!
Turns to the women.
MASKED MAN (CONT'D)
From now on your money goes to us!
EXT. STORE -- NIGHT
A small ordinary store with electronic stuff. Truck passes
by. Windows smashed with a brick. Electronic stuff gets
loaded up by four masked men getting out.
59.
EXT. LARGE HOUSE
-- NIGHT
A rich man's home. Rich neighborhood. Moderately in size

and a small garden.
INT. DORIAN'S SLEEPING ROOM -- CONTINIOUS
A couple is sleeping. One is Dorian Gendhis, the other one
is his wife. Silent as the night two False Facers enter the
room. In a creepy movement they pull out a mask and press
them onto Dorian's face.
MASKED MAN 2
Die, pig, for humiliting the master!
INT./EXT. TAXI -- NIGHT
At a busy street a businessman is entering a taxi. As he
enters it everything gets locked!
BUSINESSMAN
What does that mean?
The driver turns around. A man in an unsettling catmask.
Then the businessmen notices that Black Mask is sitting
left of him, slightly hidden in the shadows.
BLACK MASK
You've made me lose face! Now
you'll experience the same.
BUSINESSMAN
What... What... Who are you?
Black Mask reveals a mask in his hand. He hands it to him
and then pulls out a gun.
BLACK MASK
Put this on.
EXT. ABANDONED FACTORY -- NIGHT
Distant from the inhabited parts of Gotham and partly in a
forest area lies this building. Nothing special. One etage,
very long, next to a small river. A bird flies, watching
the scenary as easily two dozen of mysterious men walk out
of the wood. At close men with scary masks come out the
wood and approach the factory.
EXT. ABANDONED FACTORY -- CONTINUOUS
The factory is not so abandoned! Old assembly lines are
running and six men are preparing some sort of chemicals.
In the middle of them - Hugo Strange and his chaffeur
Sanjay watch the work as they are surprised by the door
cracked in. The men with the masks, carrying various
60.
weaponry storm in a take various positions to encircle them
all.
HUGO STRANGE
What has that supposed to mean?
What kind of clowns are you?
SANJAY
For sure they are not the police.
HUGO STRANGE
And no mob dressed as retarded.
BLACK MASK (V.O.)
Things change, Hugo!
Hugo Strange turns around. Behind him, on a metal laddar
Black Mask is sitting calmly.
HUGO STRANGE
Who are you, freak?
Black Mask gets up and stands as straight as possible.
BLACK MASK
I am the New Order. Call me Black
Mask.
HUGO STRANGE
Okay. So how the hell could you
find me here? Neither the police
did. Nor the Batman!
BLACK MASK
The False Face Society has ears
everywhere! I was surprised to know
that a famous high-society member
is in fact nothing else than a mere
criminal! Talk about a mask!
HUGO STRANGE
You wouldn't get it! I need the
money for my experiments!
BLACK MASK
I suppose so! And I am thankful for
that because I am going to overtake
your business! This product's
market share is growing! And I need
money!
HUGO STRANGE
Why should I do that?
BLACK MASK
Well. We might kill you.
61.
HUGO STRANGE
Hugo Strange is not afraid of
death! And without me no one can
replicate my sweet candy!
BLACK MASK
Maybe we can cut a deal? I am a
generous man.
HUGO STRANGE
What could you offer me?
BLACK MASK
Batman.
Hugo Strange starts to laugh.
HUGO STRANGE
How could a freak like you takedown
one of the world's finest specimen?
BLACK MASK
Because I have the skills. And the
organization.
HUGO STRANGE
Well. I have studied the Batman for
a long time.
BLACK MASK
I know.
HUGO STRANGE
How?
BLACK MASK
I've watched you on TV. And of
course, my intelligence is
everywhere.
Black Mask pulls out pictures. Walks to Strange to give
them to him. They show Strange during the day. Also in his
appartment. Files of Batman, pictures he has drawn of him,
etc. Hugo Strange having a man tied up and spraying some
sort of gas on him in this factory. Hugo Strange and some
big monster guys throwing a man into a pool of concrete.
HUGO STRANGE
You...
BLACK MASK
I am Black Mask. Destined to reveal
the true face of the world hidden
behind the farce we call
civilization!
62.
HUGO STRANGE
Ok. What is your proposal?
BLACK MASK
90% for us. Or no, make that 80%.
And we will give you Batman within
two months!
HUGO STRANGE
Deal.
BLACK MASK
So tell me what is your little
substance? Why are some men so
horribly mutated?
HUGO STRANGE
It depends on the dosis. Small
dosis you are open to mind
manipulation. Medium dosis means
hallucinations. And a large dosis,
which means, very very much will
cose an atavismic DNA shock.
BLACK MASK
I guess some didn't follow doctor's
orders.
HUGO STRANGE
Maniacs everywhere.
BLACK MASK
And how do you make your men...
die? Sadly, some of them were asked
some questions that did damage to
their health when we tried to find
you?
HUGO STRANGE
It's a mixture of the substance and
hypnosis which triggers a deadly
spasm.
Black Mask starts to laugh scarily
BLACK MASK
We make your profits up to 15%! You
have to fix some of my servants!
Hugo Strange SIGHS.
HUGO STRANGE
How many?
63.
BLACK MASK
About 45 members right now. Numbers
rising.
HUGO STRANGE
Okay.
BLACK MASK
How long does this take?
HUGO STRANGE
About 5 days if I hurry up.
BLACK MASK
Do so. Meanwhile I'll catch the
bat.
He turns around and makes a gesture to his men to come with
them.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Nice doing business with you. I'll
leave some guys here... for your
protection!
INT. WAYNE ENTERPRISES WAYNE OFFICE -- DAY
It's a hectic atmosphere. Bruce Wayne, Lucious Fox,
Commissioner Gordon and other guys are standing there. The
flat screen at the wall runs showing a shocking headline:
"7 Wayne Enterprises executives sadistically mutilated and
killed!
BRUCE WAYNE
This is just horrible. Still can't
believe it.
JAMES GORDON
Mr Wayne, any idea who would target
your company?
BRUCE WAYNE
I have no idea. Wayne Enterprises
tries to be social and ecological
modern company. Don't know who
would hold a grudge against us.
JAMES GORDON
Probably some fanatic.
LUCIOUS FOX
Bruce. I am scared. You, me, many
other high-ranking men here could
be next on the list.
64.
BRUCE WAYNE
Lucious, you are a brave man, I
know that.
LUCIOUS FOX
Yes. But my family. My wife. They
could suffer to.
JAMES GORDON
Make a list of your executive
stuff. We will offer total police
projection.
BRUCE WAYNE
That would be the best. But ignore
me. I can take care of myself.
JAMES GORDON
No way. Too dangerous. But don't
worry, you won't notice us.
BRUCE WAYNE
No other choice then. Lucious, full
support to the families of the
victims.
JAMES GORDON
The more cooperation from you the
better.
INT. GORDON'S OFFICE -- NIGHT
An all-to-familiar scene. Gordon on his desk. The Batman
standing there, slightly in the shadows.
JAMES GORDON
Bruce Wayne and the other guys will
be protected.
BATMAN
Good to know. And now comes the
puzzling part.
JAMES GORDON
Say it.
BATMAN
I've took a sample of the victims'
skin and I run it through a sample
collection.
JAMES GORDON
And I guess you already know what
is it, again?
65.
BATMAN
Yes.
JAMES GORDON
Damn it, my friend! You always make
us look like amateurs!
BATMAN
It's the Janus product. The one
that ruined the faces of various
women. Just way more concentrated.
JAMES GORDON
Great. Now there's some sicko on
the run using it.
BATMAN
The question is who and why?
JAMES GORDON
But is there a connection between
this and Wayne Enterprises. Wait a
minute! Wayne Enterprises bought
Janus to save the company.
BATMAN
Yes.
JAMES GORDON
And its old owner, Roman Sionis,
killed himself over the failure?
BATMAN
Yes. I suggest someone is out for
revenge?
JAMES GORDON
Friends? Family? I heard his family
died a few years ago in a car
accident.
BATMAN
I have a suspect.
JAMES GORDON
And it is this Circe Model, right?
The one who was the face of the
marketing campaign and his fiancee!
BATMAN
I hope not. But it's... likely.
Everything fits. She disappeared
without a trace a few weeks ago.
66.
JAMES GORDON
Man! I tell you. When you appeared
Gotham City got cleaner. But now
it's all regressing back again it
seems.
James Gordon pulls out his pipe and lights it.
First the new substance and those
monster freaks. Then those
killings. And the new mob.
BATMAN
New mob?
JAMES GORDON
You don't know about it?
BATMAN
Gotham City is large. And I was
busy hunting the men behind the
substance. And I have to admit, not
with much success.
JAMES GORDON
Finally something where we are
ahead of you. But yes. Bizarre
thing. This mob operates in Park
Row. We haven't caught one of them
yet. You know, no budget.
Politicians also do not care for
this area. But apparently they call
themselves the False Face Society.
BATMAN
What kind of name is that?
JAMES GORDON
Well. That's the bizarre part. All
members wear masks. That's at least
what eyewitnesses say.
BATMAN
(confused and slowly)
Masks?
JAMES GORDON
Yes, that's-Gordon turns around. His friend, gone! Again!
67.
INT. WAYNE MANOR - BATCAVE -- NIGHT
Another part of the cave. Here seems to be some sort of
fitness room. Rails, dumbells... Bruce is training on the
horizontal bar. Leslie stands next to him.
BRUCE WAYNE
I hope I am wrong.
LESLIE THOMKINS
But why would he do something like
that?
BRUCE WAYNE
He's always been kinda unstable.
Wrestling with some inner demons.
Then his accident. Suice or not.
Tragedy might have triggered
something deep in him.
Bruce goes down. Graps a towel. A bat passes him. Bruce and
it make deep eye contact. Sparkling eyes in both of them.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Talking out of experience?
BRUCE WAYNE
Leslie, I have to know. I will go
out and engage this new mob.
LESLIE THOMKINS
And if it is Circe, afterall?
Bruce disappears behind a curtain. He returns with his
batsuit in record time.
BRUCE WAYNE
I don't think so. It's him. He
lives and has become something
dangerous.
LESLIE THOMKINS
And if you find him? What then?
BRUCE WAYNE
We'll see.
Dons the cowl.
EXT. SUPERMARKET
-- NIGHT
The supermarket is large. Every kind of product seems to be

availabe in the systematically arranged shelves. It's close
to the end of opening time. Various people are busy. Then
seven armed False Facers appear and walk to the checkouts.
One is carrying a large bag. On there way they smack down
68.
various costumers in their way. Two are protecting the
entrance. The man with the bag threatens one of the gorcery
clarks.
FALSE FACER
Yo, scumbags! Take the money out.
Bring them to me.
He turns around for a short moment and notices that the two
guards lie on the ground, not moving. Then he passes out as
a bat-shaped boomerang hits him on the head from the
distance.
The Batman makes a roll from the entrance directly into the
middlepoint of the remaining False Facers. He engages them
in battle. Some are firing at the Dark Knight but he can
evade their bullets. A dance-like brawl. Then suddenly ten
new False Facers come through the door.
FALSE FACER 2
Face your end, bat-freak!
In the fight everything is used. Batman grabs some objects
of the store and throws them at the attacker. Some of the
False Facers use knives, others guns. All costumers have
escaped by now.
But the Batman prevails. In the end they all lie on the
ground except one. A very tough fighter. As both are
exhausted they crash throw a store glass onto the streets.
INT. SUPERMARKET PARKING LOT
-- CONTINUOUS
They wrestle on the ground. In the distance on a roof a

mysterious man is watching the fight with binoculars. A few
grapples later Batman has the False Facer in a stranglehold
but he is still struggling to take the bear-like man under
control. He removes his elephant-mask.
BATMAN
Now talk, scumbag! For whom do you
work?
FALSE FACER 3
I'll tell you! Because it won't
benefit you!
BATMAN
Talk, verminface! I haven't waited
for you two hours for nothing! Who
is your boss?
FALSE FACER 3
Black Mask. He calls himself Black
Mask.
69.
BATMAN
His real name!
Batman applies more pressure! The False Facer GULPS.
FALSE FACER 3
I don't know!
More pressure.
FALSE FACER 3 (CONT'D)
Really...
BATMAN
Okay. Then. Why do you work for him?
FALSE FACER 3
He promises us respect!
BATMAN
And that is everything?
FALSE FACER 3
Well! Also some loot. Money!
Listen, we are many. Some do it for
the money. Others believe in the
master!
BATMAN
And you?
FALSE FACER 3
I believe in Black Mask!
BATMAN
Better start believing in me! Where
can I find him?
Batman releases him out of the headlook and pulls him to
his feet. Batman moves his head close to his to threaten
him more.
BATMAN (CONT'D)
Where can I find him?
FALSE FACER 3
I can't say.
Batman punches him in the gut.
BATMAN
Can you now?
FALSE FACER 3
No, you don't... you don't--
70.
The spastic agony begins for the False Facers. Batman is
standing there helplessly. Once again he has accidentally
triggered the death sentence! The Batman searches the guy.
In one pocket he finds a yellow piece of paper. He takes
it. In the distance the mysterious figure pulls his
binoculars away. It's Black Mask. A short LAUGH from him.
Nothing more.
INT. WAYNE MANOR - KITCHEN -- DAY
A kitchen with an ancient design. This kitchen has been
there for at least 60 years. Two friends are drinking
coffee in the morning hour.
Look at this
one of Black
He uses some
erases their
keywords are
BRUCE WAYNE
note that I found at
Mask's men. Luckily.
sort of drugs that
mind in case certain
mentioned...
Bruce hands it to Leslie who reads it.

LESLIE THOMKINS
Sarah Brax, Lucious Fox... Bruce
Wayne?
BRUCE WAYNE
And look at the date.
LESLIE THOMKINS
The Masquerade Ball at the Aquapark
Opening?.
BRUCE WAYNE
He wants to kill us all at once
there. And because of the motif he
couldn't even resist.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Isn't that a little bit too
convincing?
BRUCE WAYNE
Might be. He might play a game with
us. But then again, this might be
my chance to catch him.
LESLIE THOMKINS
And the danger he might pose to
other people?
BRUCE WAYNE
I will make sure no one gets hurt.
71.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Wouldn't it be fair to warn Lucious
and Miss Brax?
BRUCE WAYNE
Already done. They won't come.
LESLIE THOMKINS
I still don't like it.
BRUCE WAYNE
Neither do I. But I have to take
this chance. And I will stir up the
fire to make him even madder. Mad
people make more mistakes.
INT. SIONIS CRYPT -- DAY
Black Mask is holding a newspaper. Furiously he throws it
into the air. Next to him is Circe and his Inner Circle,
Tupeng and Thepsis. As the newspaper hits the ground the
headline becomes readable: "BRUCE WAYNE NOT AFRAID OF THE
SICK MASK KILLER".
BLACK MASK
This Bruce Wayne! Born with the
golden spoon. And like all men who
have nothing but aritifical wealth
he is arrogant enough to think he
can get away with everything!
Circe is looking bad, even behind her mask. Her body
langugage is poor as she stands in a corner, silently.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
This man who had everything in his
life given to him! Not one thing
has he created by himself!
Black Mask walks a few steps forwards.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
But well. This friday he will die.
Lucious Fox will die. The Batman
will die!
TUPENG
But Master! Are you sure this is
the right place? There will be cops!
BLACK MASK
I will win like I won everytime
since I destroyed my old identity.
My empire controls large parts of
Gotham City.
(MORE)
72.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Soon all the enemies that held me
back in the past will be dead. I
will even destroy Gotham's
champion, the Batman!
CIRCE
And then this will be over?
BLACK MASK
No! The final act is coming after
that! When the whole world will
hear our voices.
He turns to the other people in the room.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
The dark masquerade continues!
EXT. AQUAPARK -- NIGHT
Aquapark's big logo with a giant squid towers over the
building. Left and right there are small lakes with crabs.
Press people are everywhere. Bouncers and security.
Apparently every famous person from Gotham seems to be
here. But all of them are wearing masks. A limosine holds
before the entrance and Bruce Wayne gets out, wearing a
wolf mask. Next to him is a female date with a CAT mask, in
a very long black dress, covering her almost completely.
Vicki Vale rushes to them.
VICKI VALE
Bruce and Julie... I noticed you
immeditely.
BRUCE WAYNE
Hi, Vicki. Got no invitation?
VICKI VALE
Strangely enough they were very
restrictive.
BRUCE WAYNE
I see.
Bruce Wayne and his cat date pass by the stairs down to the
entrance. Vicki Vale looks grumpy. In the distance on the
Falstaff skyscraper some people are standing.
EXT. FALSTAFF SKYSCRAPER ROOF -- CONTINUOUS
An all-too-familiar round. Black Mask and Circe are
standing at the top. Black Mask takes a last glimpse with
his binoculars as Bruce Wayne and his companion disappear
into Moench Hall. Black Mask turns around. Various False
Facers but this time dressed with expensive tuxedos.
73.
INT. AQUALAND HALL -- CONTINUOUS
On a lower level there is the large main hall of the park.
There are pillars made of plastic filled with water. In it
exotic fish and octopuses. Above them are noticeable, yet
expensive looking steel pipes.
The room is filled with people wearig various masks. Bruce
Wayne and his date are standing in the middle talking to
two man, one with a KABUKI mask, the other one wearing a
CLOWN mask. As they talk a man in a GARGOYLE mask passed
by, UTTERING some not-understandable words at Bruce.
Watching from the shadows a MAN in a two-sided JANUS mask
stands above the crowd watching from an elevated platform.
He approaches Bruce's groups and begins to talk to the
cat-mask wearing Julie Madison. He lies his arm around him.
Julie takes a look at Bruce who just nods. Julie and the
man in the Janus mask start to dance as they go near the
dancefloor.
At a safe distance CIRCE in her mask, safely hidden by it,
stands at flirts with three other men.
EXT. AQUALAND HALL - ROOF
-- CONTINUOUS
Tupeng and Thepsis are standing at the roof. The sea is

visible as the moon reflects on the surface. Next to them
are two weird guys.
One a very big guy with a black mask with a certain red
shape in the middle. The KGBeast. His other body is covered
in leather in spikes. He's wearing the large mask. In his
hand, a big, white gun. The other guy is covered in a
bulky, grey-ish plastic suit. He wears a mask, too, looking
like an abstract symbolisation of an insect with two large
eyes. He also carries a long-ish thin hand weapon. His
name: Firefly.
Tupeng and Thepsis are talking silently so the other guyys
cannot understand them.
TUPENG
Where did the Master find those
weirdos?
I guess he
He said he
looks like
like that.
THEPSIS
has a talent for that.
hired them for a man who
a fat bird. Or something
I forgot.
TUPENG
Ex-KGB agent. Humbug.
74.
THEPSIS
Apparently we need them...
The KGBeast is installing something at the ventilaton
system exit on top while Firefly is just standing there.
Waiting and aware.
Bruce Wayne stands alone there. Julie returns. She just
looks at him and tells him something.
BRUCE WAYNE
Something wrong? Not feeling okay?
She just nods.
Do you want some freshair?
She nods again and graps his hand and leads him to a
sideway and exit through a door.
INT. AQUALAND HALL - POOL ROOM
-- CONTINUOUS
They are in a room that is filled with lots of large pools.

It's open at the roof. An open swimming pool area that can
be closed at will.
BRUCE WAYNE
How did you know this room?
BLACK MASK (V.O.)
We are usually not what we appear
to be.
Bruce turns around. Out of a shadowed corner a man comes
out and becomes more and more visible. The man in the Janus
mask. With a gun.
BRUCE WAYNE
Who... who are you?
The man removes his mask. Throws it to the ground. ROMAN
SIONIS is revealed.
Roman. I thought you were...
ROMAN SIONIS
Spare me it! Circe, go and tell the
boys that we can start with the
next step!
Bruce turns at the women he thought to have been Julie
Madison or to be more correct: Ellen Yin.
75.
BRUCE WAYNE
What... what have you done to Julie?
ROMAN SIONIS
Julie? Don't play dumb!
Roman walks to the light control panel at the door and
activates it. The room start to lit slightly. Police
officer Ellen Yin lies at the floor, undressed, unconcious,
next to three other guys in the same state.
Do you think you can fool me?
BRUCE WAYNE
Is she...
ROMAN SIONIS
I am not that cruel! Just a
little... injection.
BRUCE WAYNE
Circe, why are you doing this?
For a slight moment Circe's head goes down a little. Like
in shame.
CIRCE
I am... I am sorry.
Circe leaves the room.
BRUCE WAYNE
Roman, I don't know what happened
to you but...
Triumphantly Roman rises his arms and smiles.
ROMAN SIONIS
I've been reborn! Roman Sionis is
dead! Now I can unleash my full
potential!
BRUCE WAYNE
We can work this out...
ROMAN SIONIS
Nonsense! All of you laughed at
me... humilated me! Made me lose
face!
BRUCE WAYNE
I tried to help you!
76.
ROMAN SIONIS
No! You just wanted to triumph over
me!
BRUCE WAYNE
Look beyond your Wrath! Remember,
our childhood days...
Roman Sionis' stone-cold face gets sadder, like it hadn't
gone for a long time.
Whatever you are doing. Stop it.
Bruce gets closer. Roman lowers his gun.
ROMAN SIONIS
(sadly)
Bruce... You just don't know...
BRUCE WAYNE
There is still a way out. Nobody
knows about what you have done so
far. We can still hide it...
Roman looks to the ground. But then his fury unleashed
again. He points the guy at Bruce and wants to shoot. But
BRUCE is quick. His kick throws Roman's gun out of his
hand. A second strike sends him to the ground!
ROMAN SIONIS
I knew it! False-Faced Liar! Using
Roman's weakness againt me. Against
me! BLACK MASK!
Roman reaches into his pocket, pulls out a mobile phone and
presses a button. Bruce rushes to him but out of the
shadows three False Facers approach im. Bruce is quick and
rushes out through the door he came in!
Bruce storms towards the guests. He goes straight for the
guy in the gargoyle mask and gives him a nod.
BRUCE WAYNE
He... is there.
Bruce doesn't stop and goes to another door where he
disappears. Meanwhile Roman Sionis, who has adopted his
Black Mask mask, and four of his False Facers also join the
room, carrying heavy guns. Everyone in the room focuses on
them. Black Mask steps forward to address the crowd.
77.
BLACK MASK
Tell me. Where can I find Bruce
Wayne?
Scary silene.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Tell me or I start shooting you
pigs one by one.
The man in the gargoyle mask removes his disguise to reveal
himself. It is James Gordon.
JAMES GORDON
Whoever you are. You are under
arrest.
The False Facers point their guns at Gordon. BLACK MASK
start to LAUGH hysterically.
BLACK MASK
Congratulations!
Unnoticed by all of them a dark, caped shadow has
positioned himself in a corner at the upper etage from
where the Batman watches what is happening.
JAMES GORDON
Surrender!
BLACK MASK
If it weren't so funny I'd kill you
right now.
Gordon makes a slight nod with his head.
JAMES GORDON
As you wish. Guys, reveal yourself!
Every party guest drops the mask and pulls out guns everyone's a cop in disguise. One of them is Bullock.
50 against 5. Surrender.
Black Mask seems to do something in his pocket, like he is
pressing something.
BLACK MASK
Black Mask is always in charge!
From all possible exit stages False Facers appear. Armed.
About 30 of them. At least.
78.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Now. Where is the insect, Bruce
Wayne?
JAMES GORDON
You will have to sit this out. We
will not give an innocent civilian
to you?
BLACK MASK
You call these leeches of society
civilians? You are ready to die for
them?
The dark shadow changed position. He is now somewhere
behind Black Mask, getting closer, perfectly camouflaged in
the darkness.
JAMES GORDON
Yes.
BLACK MASK
Remarkeable. But foolish. Then-The BATMAN reveals himself and takes Black Mask's head
under his elbow, crushing it.
BATMAN
This is over!
Black Mask GRUNTS in pain.
BATMAN (CONT'D)
Tell your men to surrender or-BLACK MASK
Shoot! Shoot them all!
Hell breaks loose. The False Facers open fire at the
policemen. Some go down. Gordon jumps behind a table he
throws over. Some False Facers are hit too. In the chaos
Black Mask manages to kick Batman away. Black Mask takes
his mobile phone out, pushes a button. Then he turns to
Batman, pointing his gun at him. But Batman is gone.
Somehow Batman has managed to return to the elevated etage
from where the False Facers are using the high ground to
shoot at the overwhelmed policemen. He knocks down one by
one. Some start shooting at him but he dodges it. Black
Mask has taken cover already.
Out of the ventilation system some gas emerges into the
room. One by one the police officers start to act
uncoordinated before some collapse or simply act strange.
Gordon ragdolls on the ground. Batman notices that and
79.
before the gas reaches him he manages to get some sort of
device out of his utility belt and pulls it to his nose.
Batman jumps over the ledge, down to the ground and runs at
Black Mask who doesn't attempt to flee. The False Facers
stop shooting at Batman as he comes closer to their boss.
Batman is filled with rage.
But before he can reach him someone kicks him from the
side. He crashes into the banquet table. He looks above.
The KGBeast stands before him pointing his gun at him.
KGBEAST
Surrender.
But Batman is fast on his feet again. He hits him but his
opponent barely reacts. The Dark Knight uses a roll to get
some space between them. Black Mask makes a hand gesture to
adivse his goons not to shoot at Batman.
A window crashes. Firefly is coming in. Flying. Using some
sort of jetpack. He holds his gun.
BLACK MASK
You are overpowered. Give up and
you might live.
Fast as a shark Batman throws some of his batarangs at the
KGBeast but it is fast and evades them all. Firefly flies
close and uses his weapon - apparently a very sophisticated
flamethrower as the burning ray forces Batman to leave his
position and to come nearer to the KGBeast.
Batman pulls out a gun with a hook and fires it around the
flying enemy. He gets him. Like a lasso he uses it to throw
him at a wall. But just as he does this the KGBeast comes
near and chokeholds Batman, lifting him up to the ground.
Batman manages to reach his belt and gets a small capsule.
He throws it to the ground, closes his eyes and goes.
Teargas. The KGBeast falls to his knees shortly. But to
Batman's surprise he gets up again. Meanwhile Firefly uses
his tool again. The room starts to burn.
A new hook fired by Batman. Misses. KGBeast near.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Yes, Batman! Who does it feel to
face professionals? Something else
than beating up poor souls on the
streets.
The game continues. Fireblasts. KGBeast uses his gun.
Batman jumps around uncoordinated. Batman is cornered. The
KGBeast gets near him. Takes him. And throws him to the
ground. Beaten. Lying there. Black Mask stands over him.
80.
KGBEAST
Alive. Like you said.
Black Mask stands there. Triumphantly. Fire burning in the
background, lighting his face triumphantly. Gordon seems to
have escaped by now and the False Facers leave, with Batman
as a loot, firing at everything in sight as they go.
INT. DARK ROOM -- NIGHT
Batman's eyes open. He notices something. Steel bars. A few
men are standing around. It looks like a room in the
sewers. He is barely regaining vision.
BLACK MASK
Why can't we just unmask him?
HUGO STRANGE
No! The Batman needs psychological
evaluation! I need to explore his
true state of mind. You should
understand that, shouldn't you?
BLACK MASK
As you say. Just make sure he is
out of my way. I have bigger things
to do.
Batman is in a small cage. The ground is wet and dirty.
Some rats at the wall. A table with chemicals. The men are
Hugo Strange, Black Mask, Tupeng, Thepsis.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Tupeng, Thepsis. I have a new order
for you.
Black Mask and his followers leave through the small door.
Only Hugo Strange stands there. He turns towards Batman.
Grinning diabolically.
BATMAN
I know you... you are Doctor
Strange...
HUGO STRANGE
Well noticed.
BATMAN
Why...
HUGO STRANGE
You are an interesting...
experiment.
BATMAN
What are you gonna do?
81.
Out of his white labcoat Stange pulls out an injection
needle holding it up.
HUGO STRANGE
Evaluate your mind.
EXT. WAYNE MANOR - LIVING ROOM -- DAY
Julie Madison is walking up and down. Scared. Leslie
Thomkins sits and has the TV on.
TV SCREEN:
A regular newsstudio. Vicki Vale is reading the news.
VICKI VALE
The attackers, who call themselves
False Face Society, used a
sophisticated chemical to knock out
the entire police force. No
policemen died from this. But the
death toll is still high. A
catastrophal desaster for
Commissionar Gordon. Some high
ranking politicians, including
Rupert Thorne, demand his
resignation.
Vicki's face disappears. Instead the visage of Mayor Haney
appears.
MAYOR HANEY
A sad tragedy, yes. Buteveryone of
the police officers where willing
to do this to catch a dangerous
madman. Sometimes operations like
this fail. It is not Gordon's
fault. It's a new level of crime no
one has been prepared so far.
AWAY FROM TV SCREEN.
Julie looks sad.
JULIE MADISON
Why had Bruce to agree to this
madness? I tried to talk him out of
this for hours!
LESLIE THOMKINS
Bruce is just like that.
JULIE MADISON
I hope he is well.
82.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Julie. I am pretty sure he is well.
They haven't found a trace of his
body. Perhaps he has a shock and
walks around the streets.
JULIE MADISON
Let's look for him.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Better than doing nothing.
EXT. SEWER CORRIDOR -- NIGHT
An ordinary abandoned Sewer Corridor. The ground covered
with a strange substance of rotten stuff. Large dirty
bricks. Insects at the wall. Batman walks through it.
Suddenly a shadow appears behind of him. More shadows. He
turns around. Visibly afraid he starts to run. And to run.
Faster and faster. But the grotesque shadows come closer
and closer. On his face panic. Making SOUNDS OF FEAR. It is
hopeless.
Then two dead bodies lie before him. A man, a woman.
Pearls. Batman falls to the ground. Frightened he turns
around to see the Shadow reveal itself - It's THE SHAPE of
the man that killed his parents, holding a gun, pointing it
at Batman, more a silhoutte than a real man. He shoots.
EXT. GOTHAM CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL GROUND
-- NIGHT
A large school building. A large logo. Gotham City

Elementary State School. Young Bruce Wayne stands before
it. He walks. Total darkness except for some street lamps.
Slowly he goes. Then he hesitates. Some shadow moved. He
starts to walk on. He walks over the parking lot. He takes
a look at the playground, only visible as dark silhouttes.
On the swing someone is sitting but only a shadow. Bruce
goes on. Faster. His face is full of fear. Another shadow
moving?
He reaches the road. Something bumps into him. He looks up
and it's an old men MUMBLING something. Bruce takes a deep
look. He starts to run. Faster and faster. Suddenly the
shadows take on grotesque forms. The get bigger and bigger.
Chasing him. He runs on and on.
EXT. CEMETARY -- CONTINUOUS
Bruce has reached the cemetary gates where is parents are
buried. The shadows are close. He enters the graveyard.
From the grave new shadows start to chase him. The paniced
boy reaches the grave of his parents. Big letters, WAYNE.
He cowers, WHIMPERING, starts to cry. As the shadows reach
him they start to fly around him. They have grinning facing
and go closer and closer to the boy, almost covering him.
83.
But suddenly their hideous faces lose that grin. They start
to look scared themselves. Then they start to fly away in
panic themselve! Bruce raises his head a little bit. He
looks up. A man is standing there. In a cape that is flying
in the wind. It is BATMAN who holds out his hand to him.
Young Bruce graps it. Both start to fuse in a surreal
manner, leaving only Batman there.
INT. DARK ROOM -- CONTINUOUS
Batman regains concious in his cell. He raises. With new
found strength he smashes the door of his small cage. Hugo
Strange turns around in total surprise. Batman rushes out.
Sheer range. He holds him at the throat.
BATMAN
Strange... I...
HUGO STRANGE
How could you...
BATMAN
You'll pay for that!
HUGO STRANGE
Please, I...
BATMAN
Monster.
HUGO STRANGE
Listen, it's nothing personal.
BATMAN
Where is Black Mask? What is he
doing?
HUGO STRANGE
I don't know!
BATMAN
You are the one behind the
substance, right? The one that
makes those monsters?
HUGO STRANGE
Yes...
BATMAN
Why?
HUGO STRANGE
Money. I need it for my research.
BATMAN
Why do you work with Black Mask?
84.
HUGO STRANGE
He found out what I did. He forced
me to do this...
BATMAN
You must know where I can find him!
HUGO STRANGE
I swear... I swear... No clue. But
he has been constantly talking
about... a big thing the world will
notice.
Through the door, Strange's loyal servant Sanjay appears,
holding a gun.
SANJAY
Doctor Strange... what is-HUGO STRANGE
Kill the bastard!
Batman throws a batarang at Sanjay disarming him. But Hugo
has freed himself, running away from Batman.
Let's go!
But Batman is on their trail.
INT. SEWER SYSTEM -- CONTINUOUS
A chase through the sewer system. Batman is still not at
peak condition, humping. The two race until the way twists
into two tunnels. Each one of them uses another way. Batman
follows strange. After a short chase Strange comes to the
end of the pipe. The way ends there. A large, dark abyss is
next to it.
BATMAN
It's over.
HUGO STRANGE
No!
Behind Batman Sanjay appears with his gun. He shots. But
Batman dodges it. Instead Strange is hit. Strange tumbles
and with a large SCREAM he falls down the abyss.
SANJAY
No... no!!!
Sanjay runs and Batman is taking a defensive position. But
Sanjay runs past him and follows his master into the abyss.
85.
INT. JANUS BUILDING - CONFERENCE ROOM -- NIGHT
The long round table. Every seat is filled. People not
moving. People covered in masks! In front of them Black
Mask is standing. Circe sits in the corner, looking out of
the window.
BLACK MASK
Ladies and gentlemen! My whole life
you have tried to hold me down. But
look at you. In the end Janus went
bankrupt. Because of you!
Black Mask walks near a man.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
But at least you are still good for
something!
Black Mask tips him on the shoulder. Like a puppet he falls
down. He was already dead. Like all of them.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Circe! Come near me!
Circe gets up and comes to him!
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Time to reveal the secret of my
mask!
Black Mask lies his hand on her shoulder!
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Everyone who wears these masks
becomes possessed! Possessed by the
spirit ingrained by the mask!
He raises his hands above his head in his typical
triumphant pose.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
All of us became something more
than we ever were!
Focuses on Circe again.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
But the spirit of my mask is the
most potent of them all! The spirit
of death itself that was locked in
the black wood carved from my
father's ebony casket!
Black Mask takes a deep breath and raises his voice.
86.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
I became death itself!
Black Mask's body loosens up.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
I was powerful enough to beat the
Batman! But still! Bruce Wayne
slipped through my fingers! Because
I short moment of Roman's usual
weakness appeared in me!
Black Mask turns away from the table.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
But the souls of new Janus
management are now part of my new
identity! But the rich prick will
have to wait... As we start the
final operation tomorrow! Then we
can bury Roman Sionis for good!
INT. WAYNE MANOR - FRONT HALL -- DAY
Bruce Wayne, visibly exhausted, walks into the clean and
empty hall. Leslie and Julie rush out.
JULIE MADISON
Bruce!
Julie hugs him and kisses him.
Where have you been, you little
fool.
BRUCE WAYNE
I... shock... Wandered around. Ran
away...
JULIE MADISON
Don't do that again. Leslie, please
take a look at him.
LESLIE THOMKINS
We've looked for you.
BRUCE WAYNE
Julie, I have to talk to you.
JULIE MADISON
Yes?
87.
BRUCE WAYNE
Leslie, could you you leave us
alone for a moment... and go to my
place? I'll join you soon.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Sure.
Leslie leaves the round and goes up the stairs.
JULIE MADISON
So Bruce...
BRUCE WAYNE
I was close to death, you know that.
JULIE MADISON
Yes.
BRUCE WAYNE
In those moments... things become
more clear...
JULIE MADISON
What do you mean?
BRUCE WAYNE
Private Bruce Wayne finally needs
to face reality. I will cut down my
business obligations. For you.
JULIE MADISON
Really? But you've said this so
many times?
BRUCE WAYNE
Did I also say, 'Do you want to
marry me?'?
Julie's eyes open wide. With joy.
JULIE MADISON
Oh Bruce. Not a joke, I guess?
BRUCE WAYNE
No. I want to spend my life with
you.
JULIE MADISON
Wow.
BRUCE WAYNE
I need an answer.
JULIE MADISON
Yes.
88.
Kisses him.
Yes. Yes. Yes.
Bruce smiles widely.
BRUCE WAYNE
I am the luckiest man alive now.
Julie, we'll take this down later
but... Leslie needs to look after
me. I'm still dazzled.
JULIE MADISON
Of course. I also need to... think
about some things!
BRUCE WAYNE
Dinner tomorrow night? Here?
JULIE MADISON
Yes.
INT. WAYNE MANOR - BATCAVE -- CONTINUOUS
Leslie is already waiting, leaning at the chair in front of
the computer system as Bruce arrives.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Important discussion?
BRUCE WAYNE
Yes. You'll get the... details
tomorrow.
Bruce smiles.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Can't wait.
BRUCE WAYNE
Roman. I have to finish this now.
But I have no trace, again!
LESLIE THOMKINS
The guards are still around here.
Don't worry, they are only on the
outside.
BRUCE WAYNE
The batcave is pretty much
untracable. No. Leslie. Roman plans
something. Something noticeable to
the world.
89.
LESLIE THOMKINS
The world? I know you are a little
bit overworked but... the United
Nations summit is... today.
BRUCE WAYNE
That would be insane. Even for
Roman in his current state. But
fitting.
Bruce turns to the computer. He pushes some button.
Television appears.
TV SCREEN:
VICKI VALE is reporting. Behind her is a building called
SPRANG MUSEUM. A ticker runs, saying "INTERNATIONEL
DELIGATION TO VISIT THE MUSEUM IN AN HOUR". Screen is mute.
END SCREEN
Bruce squints. Then he turns to Leslie.
The SPRANG MUSEUM. Mayor Haney is
showing it to some high ranking
international politicians who are
in Gotham for the UN summit.
LESLIE THOMKINS
You mean he'll strike there?
BRUCE WAYNE
The UN summit is too
well-protected. He'd be ripped to
pieces. But here. He'll get the
Mayor. The French president. Some
ambassadors. That is something.
LESLIE THOMKINS
But what's the purpose of this?
BRUCE WAYNE
No idea. But I will be waiting!
Bruce makes a face like he has forgotten his door keys in a
cold winter night.
For god's sake. What about Gordon?
LESLIE THOMKINS
All well. Just some bruises. No
lethal guess. Still, seven dead
cops.
90.
BRUCE WAYNE
This has to end.
A grim look at the batmobile.
And it will.
EXT. SPRANG MUSEUM -- DAY
The Sprang museum looks like a small version of a Middle
East building, just with odd colors. Barricades are
everywhere. Security men from the military are patrolling.
The sun shines but the dusk already starts.
Vicki Vale and her team are at the outside. Reporting.
There are many cars parked in front. All high class.
At the roof of a close building Batman is watching through
binoculars. Concentrated.
INT. SPRANG MUSEUM -- CONTINUOUS
About 10 men in expensive suits, one of them Mayor Haney,
walk through the gigantic hall, decorated with various
bizarre items in a bizarre place. A large green dinosaur,
giant typewriters, big coins, even a large billiard table
with big balls, only visible from the higher etages...
There are also about 3 security guards, some press men,
including Vicki Vale. A man in museum worker clothes is
showing them around.
EXT. SPRANG MUSEUM -- CONTINUOUS
The Batman still waits for his prey.
BATMAN
(to himself)
Show yourself, Roman.
Out of nothing a helicopter appears over Batman and flies
towards the museum. A close up reveals the KGBeast in
control. He pushes a button and various rockets are
released. As they hit the ground a large explosion occurs.
Green gas starts to rise.
BATMAN (CONT'D)
Careful what you wish for!
Security guys fire at the helicopter but cannot do any
harm. The KGBeast turns his vehicle to them and fires at
them, bringing their doom. Then three trucks arrive at the
scene. The cargo opens, dozens and dozens of False Facers,
storming the museum. Batman leaps from the roof - into
action! Amongst them are also two very large guys in
91.
trenchcoats, mostly obscured and later mostly in the
background.
The group of people panics. The security guys take the men
in the expensive suits and try to lead them out. As they
approach a backdoor it is locked. The leader through the
museum looks at the group and just smiles viciously.
The False Facers reach the group and mow down the security
guards with ease. Everyone of them takes position at
various strategic points. All of the men are rounded up and
brought to the middle of the museum hall.
From the entrance door and through the smoke Black Mask
walks in and takes a look at his new hostages.
Batman is climbing up and outer wall with his grappling
hook to reach a higher window. Outside a battle has ensured
between False Facers and newly arrived army guys. The False
Facers are heavily armed with machine guns, rocket
launchers and grenades. The gas is knocking the soldiers
out and constantly new bombs are detonated by the KGBeast.
Black Mask turns to Vicki Vale.
BLACK MASK
Miss Vale. Get up and make your
team ready to broadcast myself to
the world.
Visibly afraid she obeys and gives some silent orders to
her team.
MAYOR HANEY
How much money do you want?
BLACK MASK
Money... is only a tool. From you
and your corrupt friends...
Politicians... I want something...
else. But now tell your servants to
stop attacking so no one gets hurt!
Black Mask throws a mobile phone into Haney's hands.
EXT. SPRANG MUSEUM - ROOF -- CONTINUOUS
Batman hand appear at the roof and he pulls himself up to
watch. He sees four False Facers with sniper rifles. He
92.
sneaks up and disables them smoothly. In the background a
battle is still raging. Then he uses the roof entrance.
All politicians, including Haney, have been tied up at
various chairs. Black Mask still stands before them. Vicki
Vale's camera is at him. He starts to speak.
His face is projected on various TV screens in households
around the world.
BLACK MASK
People of the world. I have come
here to give you the possibility of
witnessing moments of truth. You
might ask what do I mean? Well,
let's see!
The camera turns to the tied up politicians.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
I will not kill them. I will not
demand money. I just want to see
you watch!
False Facers appears behind the politicians. Injections in
their hands. They grab the heads of the men and pull them
back and hold the needle in a threatening way.
BLACK MASK (V.O.)
The mayor of Gotham City. Ministers
of various countries... and the
President of the French Republic!
All under my control!
Black Mask is again the focus of the scene.
BLACK MASK
But this isn't about power! It's
about exposing them for what they
are behind their masks!
MAYOR HANEY (V.O.)
Madman!
BLACK MASK
With these nice needles we will
inject something that will break
down the outer layers of the
mind... like a friend of mine said.
Black Mask makes a hand command. Camera goes back to the
helpless men. The False Facers pull the needles into the
necks and pull the substance into them.
93.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Now in a few moments they will
answer everything! And I will ask
them about everything. The dirty
affairs behind their wife's backs.
Illegal weapon deals. Whatever! The
facade must fall!
The smoke has cleared. False Facers are standing around the
building, on the roof, on the windows. The police and the
military, including Gordon, Yin and Bullock have arrived.
Barricades have been built.
INT. SPRANG MUSEUM - STAIRWAY -- CONTINUOUS
The Batman fights his way down. Level by level, disarming
and beating various False Facers he encounters with martial
arts moves.
Black Mask is standing next to a diplomat. The camerateam
having their lens on them. In the background Batman sneaks
in.
BLACK MASK
Now, ladies and gentlemen. My
little injection must work. We'll
start with something... personal.
Batman knocks out a False Facer in the background a drags
him into the open door to the stairway. Silently.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Married?
DIPLOMAT
Yes.
BLACK MASK
Happily?
DIPLOMAT
Not... not anymore.
Batman is back. He is preparing something.
BLACK MASK
Any affairs?
DIPLOMAT
No.
94.
BLACK MASK
Prostitutes?
DIPLOMAT
Yes.
BLACK MASK
You see! These are the man that
want that you believe that they
serve you! Instead they use their
hard money to start wars and pay
for sex!
Black Mask turns to Haney.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Mayor Haney, my friend! Tell me
about the cities connection to the
Batman! Do you know who he is?
MAYOR HANEY
No.
BLACK MASK
Any affairs?
MAYOR HANEY
No.
BLACK MASK
A man of virtue. But we have all
the time in the world! At least,
until the brain damage sets in.
The police and the army are still in position. The sun is
almost gone, the atmosphere of a hot summer evening is
there. But then a terrible SOUND occurs.
The Batmobile races towards them. Shortly before them it
ignites some sort of rocket and flies over them. The False
Facers jump aside as it races towards the museum entrance!
The rising mechanical monster crashes unto the scene. All
turn towards it in surprise. Meanwhile Batman leaps down
towards the hostages, detonating a capsule of flue gas. The
False Facers start to fire at the Batmobile. The Batmobile
opens fire with some guns! But no one goes down - it's
firing blanks! Batman knocks Black Mask down as he turns
back to see the gas and Batman. Batman then engages the
False Facers guarding the hostages.
95.
With a knife from his batsuit he frees the people. He turns
to Vicki Vale who is cowering on the ground.
BATMAN
Get you and the man to the basement.
Batman points to the stairs going down.
VICKI VALE
And... and you?
BATMAN
I am finishing this!
Meanwhile the Batmobile is out of ammo. As the hostages run
to security Black Mask is back on his feet. The gas is
cleared. The False Facers point there guns at Batman. Black
Mask is only a few feet away from Batman.
BLACK MASK
I thought Hugo finished you!
BATMAN
No, he had to go cave-diving!
BLACK MASK
I should have known you! Only the
power of Black Mask is able to
defeat you!
BATMAN
You misunderstand. One push-Batman pulls out a device.
BATMAN (CONT'D)
--Gordon and the boys are storming
this place.
BLACK MASK
Then so be it!
BATMAN
Enough people have died!
BLACK MASK
No.
Black Mask pulls out a device by himself and pushes a
button.
Suddenly the KGBeast in his copter returns and fires round
for round at the military. They try to counter it with an
RPG but the sophisticated copter can evade it. Gordon, Yin
96.
and Bullock barely manage to get away. They cover and start
to fire at the vehicle.
As the NOISES of the fight reach them Black Mask starts to
laugh.
BLACK MASK
Face your end, Batman!
Black Mask runs away and the False Facers start to fire.
Batman leaps behind a giant pen-shaped statue.
Outside the fight goes on. The Copter is out of rockets but
still machine-gunning the people. Ellen Yin takes a shot as
the vehicle is shortly close to the ground. She hits the
KGBeast arm. Barely noticing this but he loses control of
the Copter for a short moment. Long enough for a soldier to
hit with an RPG that destroys an engine. Hit by that the
KGBeast flies, bumpingly, to the roof of the Sprang museum
to land. Gordon looks on his smartphone. A message is there
"HOSTAGES SECURED".
JAMES GORDON
Let's go in!
All men (and women) march towards the museum. The shoot-out
starts again!
The False Facers are firing not at Batmn anymore but at the
approaching soldiers and cops. Meanwhile the two large guys
in trencoats have appeared next to Black Mask. Batman is
taking is change and runs at Black Mask!
BLACK MASK
You are not getting me! I am Black
Maks!
The two large guys abandoned their trenchcoats to reveal
their true forms - they are Hugo Strange's hideously
mutated bodyguards! Batman instinctively backs of!
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
I will take pleasure in watching
your doom.
The two
grapple
some of
seem to
guys attack Batman who evades them. Batman uses his

gun to jump unto the giant billiard table. He tests
the billiard balls. They are taller than him and
be very heavy.
97.
He jumps against them, sending some of them down, jumping
at the monsters. Hitting one of them it crashes to the
ground. He takes the giant-sized cue and uses the high
ground to throw it at the other guy like a spear. The guy
crashes against a wall. Batman jumps down again.
The attackers are closer to the entrance.
JAMES GORDON
Keep on going!
The one hit by the balls is back on his feet again. Batman
jumps at the wall and uses the elevated force to kick
against the giant who just shakes a little bit. He then
pulls out a little injection needle by himself. He pushes
it into the giant. The giant just collapses and reverts
back to a more humanly form.
BATMAN
(exhausted)
Thanks, Kirk.
Meanwhile more and more False Facers go down. One of them
falls from a platform onto a giant typewriter.
The final giant is battle-ready again! Batman pulls out the
next needle but Black Mask shots at Batman. At his move
away he loses the needle.
Batman lies on the ground. The monster gets ahold of him,
grabs him at the neck and pulls him off the ground.
BLACK MASK
Bring him to me!
The monster obeys. Black Mask holds an injection needle in
his hands, pushing it towards Batman. As he attempts to
push it in suddenly MULTIPLE GUNSHOT. The grip loosens and
Batman falls to the ground - the giant, too. Batman turns
back and sees Ellen Yin with a gun as the policemen have
reached the room, almost all False Facers dead. Batman nods
at her and then turns back to Black Mask.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
No!
Black Mask turns around and runs to the door of the
stairway! Batman is on his trail.
98.
ON THE ROOF the KGBeast is working on the Copter. Black
Mask reaches the roof.
BLACK MASK
Let's go!
KGBEAST
One of the turbine is hit it...
BLACK MASK
But it flies!
Black Mask and the KGBeast get in.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Is Firefly in position?
The large man-mountain just nods. Behind them Batman
appears. He fires is grapplehook as the Copter is about to
get off.
He hangs at the Copter as it reaches the ground. Batman is
pulling himself up. Black Mask gets to the backgroom of the
vehicle, opens the door and fires at the Caped Crusader!
Batman throws a batarang at another turbines, hitting it.
KGBEAST
Batman hit the elevation system! We
will lose height continously!
Then Firefly appears. He flies in and throws Batman from
the rope with a kick. Batman tumbles down. But he lands in
a tree. Meanwhile the Copter's height reduces more and
more, flying only 15 metres over the ground.
Batman rolls down the large tree, pulls out a device.
Suddenly the Batmobile bursts out of the Sprang Museum and
parks under the room. Batman gets in!
INT./EXT. REVELOUS ALLEY -- CONTINUOUS
Firefly flies into the Copter. The Copter flies ahead. But
the Batmobile is on their track. KGBeast changes place with
Firefly to get an RPG. He is firing at the chasing
Batmobile multiple times but misses, instead blowing up
parking cars.
Batman comes near. Suddenly the Batmobile's roof opens and
Batman emerges in some sort of propelled seat - the
BATGYRO, getting closer and closer to the Helicopter. The
Copter manage to raise again but is now rising
uncontrollably.
99.
The KGBeast fires his machine gun but cannot hit the
Batgyro which is constantly changing position. Frustrated
the KGBeast and Firefly change position again. Firefly gets
out and uses his jetpack. He fires his weapon at Batman - a
large fireblast. Batman uses some batarangs and hits the
jetpack which is generating sparks then keeping Firefly in
a struggle to keep in the air.
Then Firefly's jetpack fails completely. He crushes to the
ground. Batman takes a short look. He takes out another
batarang and fires it at the Copter's engine. A hit. The
Copter seems to fly without any control now. Batman quickly
abandonds his Gyro, fires his grappling hook at an
advertising sign and glides down to catch Firefly in the
air, landing on the roof of a skyscraper. Batman removes
the mask of his enemy.
FIREFLY
Thanks... thanks...
Batman just punches him out and let him lie on the floor.
ON THE COPTER:
KGBEAST
Boss, we have to abandon!
BLACK MASK
No way. Keep on!
Suddenly army helicopter appear, coming towards them.
ON THE SKYSCRAPER:
Batman is watching the spectacle.
ON THE COPTER:
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Turn right!
KGBEAST
Boss, I have no control over this
thing anymore! We have to jump!
BLACK MASK
No! It can't end like that!
Black Mask reaches out for the control pad and turns it
right. The Copter is getting out of control. Flying
directly towards a building.
ON THE SKYSCRAPER:
Batman is witnessing as the Copter crashes directly against
a large skyscraper. Exploding. Falling to the ground.
100.
INT. WAYNE MANOR - DINING ROOM -- NIGHT
A large table with roast beef and whine on it. Bruce is
sitting there next to Leslie. The large dining room is
covered with shadows and the moonlight that comes through
the large windows. No artificial light involved.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Gordon's men have been recalled.
BRUCE WAYNE
Good.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Bruce what do you want to tell me?
BRUCE WAYNE
I'll wait for that until Julie
arrives! But before that...
LESLIE THOMKINS
Yes?
The weather outside worsens. Strong winds bending the
trees.
BRUCE WAYNE
Not that again. No. Something else.
In the last days lots of things
came back to me. Remember when I
told you that Bruce Wayne died when
his parents-LESLIE THOMKINS
Yes.
BRUCE WAYNE
I was wrong. All those years I
thought that through Batman I could
avenge my parents... but it was
never... never about that...
LESLIE THOMKINS
What do you mean?
BRUCE WAYNE
I lied to myself. It was always
about... overcoming the fear. The
fear a young boy has. Bruce Wayne
didn't die. Thanks to Batman.
LESLIE THOMKINS
I am no philospher.
101.
BRUCE WAYNE
Batman helped Bruce Wayne to give
his life a purpose. Bruce Wayne and
Batman are one and the same and I
have to live both lives.
Outside is starts to rain.
LESLIE THOMKINS
I am glad to hear that. Is that why
you decided to marry Julie?
BRUCE WAYNE
You.. know?
LESLIE THOMKINS
I am old. Not dumb.
BRUCE WAYNE
You are right.
LESLIE THOMKINS
So will you tell, Julie?
BRUCE WAYNE
I think so.
THUNDER outside.
LESLIE THOMKINS
You know that she hates everything
Batman.
BRUCE WAYNE
We'll find a way.
STEPS behinds them. Both turn around. It's Julie, obscured
by the darkness. Her face is strange as she runs straight
for Bruce's arms.
JULIE MADISON
Roman Sionis... he-BRUCE WAYNE
Dead. According to the news.
JULIE MADISON
You do not understand-From where Julie came Black Mask, alive and well, enters
the room. Lightning strikes at the same moment behind him,
illuminating his features.
BLACK MASK
He never understood!
102.
Bruce instinctively takes a step back. He is visibly
surprised.
BRUCE WAYNE
I thought you were-BLACK MASK
That is the second time! Roman
might be dead but Black Mask will
live forever!
BRUCE WAYNE
How nice. Now? Why don't you get
out of my home?
BLACK MASK
First, Bruce Wayne has to die!
BRUCE WAYNE
Roman... I tell you the last time.
Stop it. Think of your parents.
What would they think about you
now?
Black Mask just starts to LAUGH in a devilish way before
his voice turns really soft and hurt.
BLACK MASK
My parents? *I* killed my parents!
BRUCE WAYNE
How do you mean that?
BLACK MASK
The car accident. I rigged the
brakes, for god's sake!
BRUCE WAYNE
Why..?
BLACK MASK
It doesn't matter! I hate my
parents, I hate you! I hate Roman
Sionis! And that is why I will kill
you ALL!
Black Mask points his gun at Bruce. Bruce shortly closes
his eyes in concentration. Invisibly he grabs a fork behind
it. And throws it right into Black Mask's left hand,
causing the gun to fall down! In the background of various
lightning bolts Bruce jumps at him and wrestles him down.
Black Mask regains focus and manages to grab his gun. Bruce
is lying on him, holding him down but Roman manages it to
point the gun at Leslie. He shoots. Leslie falls down.
103.
JULIE MADISON
No!
BRUCE WAYNE
Leslie-Instinctively Bruce gets up and runs to his surrogate
mother, lying down in their own blood. Black Mask gets up.
Points his gun at Bruce again. Bruce holds Leslie's hand
while looking at Roman gain.
What are you waiting for? See what
you have done?
Black Mask is shaking. His whole posture goes down.
I see you now for what you truly
are. I didn't want to see it all
the time because of our friendship,
the fact that I felt sorry for you-Black Mask goes a step back, almost tumbling.
But now I realize that Roman Sionis
is and was never anything but a
pathetic little psychopath. YOU are
nothing but a pathetc little
psychopath, hiding behind a mask
because of his cowardice!
Black Mask looks at Julie. He regains his posture, runs
towards her, grabs her and walks backwards.
BLACK MASK
And you made me realize something
else! Tonight it is time for Roman
to truly die. Once and for all. And
I will take her with me.
Bruce gets up. Leslie is MOANING in pain.
BLACK MASK
One step closer and I'll break her
little neck!
Bruce backs off.
BLACK MASK
Be a good boy, rich prick.
Black Mask takes Julie with him, into the darkness. Bruce
looks at Leslie. She nods at him.
104.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Go... for her...
BRUCE WAYNE
Will you make it?
LESLIE THOMKINS
I... I think so...
BRUCE WAYNE
I'll call an ambulance. And inform
Gordon.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Do you.. do you really think Roman
will kill himself?
BRUCE WAYNE
I don't think so. At least not
literally. But I think I know where
I will find him. Stay strong, I
have to go.
EXT. SIONIS FAMILY ESTATE -- NIGHT
A car next to the estate. The moonshine reflecting in the
the lake. Suddenly Batman silhoutte, contrasted against the
moon, is shown, looking at the Mansion.
INT. SIONIS FAMILY ESTATE - CHILD'S ROOM -- CONTINUOUS
A former child's room, just three times bigger than that of
a child born of middle class parents, looking like there's
hasn't been a child in it for years. Julie is tied up in a
corner next to the bed. Black Mask is standing next to a
box.
Batman approaches the entrance.
Black Mask walks up and down, slowly.
BLACK MASK
Roman, my failure is all your
fault. Everytime I took fully
control of the power of death, the
spirit of my ebony mask I failed at
nothing. But then your
sentimentales had to creep in,
weaken me!
105.
Batman walks forward. Suddenly some blades fly at him. He
dodges them. Then out of the shadows - Tupeng and Thepsis,
one armed with a sword, the other one witha spiked mace,
attack him.
Black Mask goes to the box and opens in. Lots of old toys.
BLACK MASK
What was once Roman must now truly
die. Roman, have the courtesy to
make space for Black Mask!
EXT. SIONIS FAMILY ESTATE - ENTRANCE AREA -- CONTINUOUS
A battle emerges and Batman is truly struggling for a short
time. Batman gets hit by the sword at the left side of his
torso, bleeding slightly. But he manages to hold Thepsis
and pushes his face to the ground. His mask cracks.
Black Mask takes the box and throws it all over the bed.
BLACK MASK
Your parents. Our parents. How they
gave you all those expensive toys.
But never their love.
EXT. SIONIS FAMILY ESTATE - ENTRANCE AREA -- CONTINUOUS
A few moves later and Tupeng is kicked backwards to crash
onto the stairs. He collapses. It is just then that Batman
notices that on the ground a certain liquid is spilled,
virtually everywhere. Gasoline. Batman walks on as a shadow
appears and points a gun at him. It's Circe.
CIRCE
No step further, Batman.
BATMAN
Why are you doing this?
CIRCE
I must obey him.
BATMAN
Listen, I don't know what he did to
you to make you a slave to him. But
he is a monster and I have to stop
him or he'll hurt even more people!
106.
CIRCE
I know that he is monster. Somehow
I have always known. But what is
there for me now?
Batman walks up to her. She collapses into his arms. CRYING.
BATMAN
We'll find a way.
Black Mask reaches for some sort of string puppet and holds
it in the air, over his head.
BLACK MASK
Miss Madison... if I really think
about little Roman never had a
change to play. All his romantic
dreams... Dead. It would be
funny... If it weren't so pathetic!
Black Mask gets a box of matches out his pocket. He takes a
match and lightens it.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
Roman, your past will die tonight!
And with it also you!
Takes a last look at the frightened Julie.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
I wonder, Miss Madison, if you'll
see Little Roman's parents waiting
for him...
He throws the burning matc at the toys. They start to burn
rather fast.
BLACK MASK (CONT'D)
(screaming)
In Hell!
Fumes and fire. Spreading fast!
Batman rushes up the stairs. Fumes are already there. He
hushes through the first etage until he sees the room. Just
in this moment Black Mask is coming out of the room.
BLACK MASK
You again! Can't you just die?
107.
BATMAN
Do you think a joke like you can
defeat me?
Batman storms at him like a madman. Both crash into the
child's room.
Batman and Black Mask both crash to the room which is
wildly burning already. Batman notices Julie. Black Mask is
up again and blocking the way between Batman and Julie.
Some logs fall to the ground, burning. Black Mask rattles
the shelf next to him so it falls on Batman.
More fumes. Julie passes out. Black Mask takes a burning,
long-ish piece of furniture next to him, not caring for the
flames and heat on it at all. Batman gets up but Black Mask
punches him with the piece of furniture that hard that it
cracks. Some pieces out it flow out of the room, setting
the outside on fire, too.
BLACK MASK
I am death incarnated! No one can
stop me now!
But Batman is too tough. Rising again like a Phoenix he
engages Black Mask again. A fight begins. Batman manages to
stay on the ground and evade various attacks.
Then Batman's victory is achieved. He grabs Black Mask,
lifting him a few centimetres over the ground
BATMAN
This masquerade is over!
Using his other hand to rips Black Mask's mask of. He
throws it out of the room. Roman faces is that of a scared
man. Batman's fists lands on his head. Roman is knocked
out. He looks at Julie while the whole mansion is burning
more and more.
Fumes and fire. Then a mystic figures walks through the
fumes and fire, almost pushing them away by his presence.
The Batman, carrying Roman Sionis and Julie at his
shoulders. Fighting his way forwards in this inferno, with
stuff crashing down everywhere, towards the exit. In one
corner there is the ebony mask of BLACK MASK, surrounded by
fire but not burning itself.
108.
Out of the entrance Batman walks to a safe distance and
drops his carriage savely to the ground. He pats into
Julie's face.
BATMAN
Julie... please...
No reaction. Batman does first aid measures.
BATMAN (CONT'D)
(screaming)
Julie!
Julie COUGHS. Batman has a big smile in his face.
Then suddenly Roman regains concious. Opening his eyes he
starts to touch his face.
ROMAN SIONIS
My face...
In panic he stands up and kicks the pre-occupied Batman to
the ground. He runs to return to the mansion.
I need my... face!
Batman looks at him. Hesitating. Then he runs to the lake
next to the house and takes a deep dive into it and returns
wet. He follows Roman back into the house!
Roman comes in first, the house is burning like a living
hell. He stumbles. Walking on all four. Searching.
ROMAN SIONIS
Face... my face...
Then he notices it in the corner. Fumes are coming out of
it as the flames approach it more and more.
He gets up runs toward it. At this moment Batman enters the
room, too. But just then various logs come down crashing,
blocking the way between Batman and Roman.
Batman reaches into his belt and fires his grappling hook
at Roman who is still running towards his mask. Shortly
before he can reach it the rope is attached to his leg,
causing him to fall onto his face as Batman starts to pull
him towards himself.
Roman tries to stretch himself to grab the mask before him.
He fails. He holds himself onto the ground as Batman is
109.
pulling stronger and stronger. Then he makes an final
attempt, getting the mask with his hands. The wood of the
mask is hot but Roman just holds it as Batman pulls him
towards him.
Coming nearer to Batman he takes the mask. And pulls it
over his face. A terrible SOUND OF BURNING FLESH is heard
as it is attached. Roman SCREAMS.
Batman has him now. He takes him and carries him out of the
room.
Julie is back again to conciousness. She stands next to
Batman who is holding is torso wound. Roman is sitting on
the ground, hand- and leg-cuffed. Saying nothing. The mask
is deeply burned into his face!
JULIE MADISON
Say, Batman, do you feel sorry for
a guy like him?
The two take a deep look at what-was-once-Roman-Sionis. He
turns his face towards them, too. Even through his
grotesque appearance something like rage and sadness is
felt.
BATMAN
In some ways I do feel sorry for
him.
An all too familiar face standing in the woods close to
them appears, encompassed by the increasing fog - Circe.
She just stands there like a statue. Batman and Julie
notice and look at her.
BATMAN (CONT'D)
But I feel more sorry for his
victims.
In the distance POLICE SIRENS. They come closer. Circe
disappears into the forest again. Then the cars a are
visible as various policemen get out.
JULIE MADISON
Batman... Can I ask you-Julie turns to her side. But Batman - is gone!
EXT. SIONIS CRYPT -- DAY
The sun is just rising as two guys stand at the entrance.
Gordon and Batman. Gordon touches the wall of the crypt.
110.
JAMES GORDON
So this is where it all began.
BATMAN
It began years earlier.
JAMES GORDON
We've rounded up a lot of those
False-Facers. But some are still
running around.
BATMAN
Without a leader I doubt they'll be
dangerous again. But I'll get
them... one by one.
Batman notices something reflecting the sunlight in the
grass. He takes it.
JAMES GORDON
And what about this girl... Circe?
Do you want her to?
Batman takes a close look at the object. It's golden and
metallic. He opens it. A picture of Roman is in it. There's
text written on it "FOR THE MOST BEAUTIFUL GIRL IN THE
WORLD, YOURS ROMAN! WANT TO BECOME MY WIFE?". Then Batman
notices the golden ring.
BATMAN
She is just a poor victim. A lost
soul. I doubt she will pose any
danger. She will have to find her
own... peace. Like we all do...
Batman puts the object in his belt.
JAMES GORDON
So we can close the Case of the
False Facers for now?
BATMAN
I hope so.
JAMES GORDON
I dare not to think what the future
might bring.
BATMAN
I'll be ready, old friend. I'll be
ready.
EXT. ARKHAM ASYLUM -- NIGHT
At a certain distance to the urban centre of Gotham Arkham
Asylum stands there, like a medieval European castle. High
111.
metal fences before high grown green bushes remind us of
days long passed if it weren't for the electrified fencing.
Rain is falling to the ground.
INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM - ENTRANCE HALL -- CONTINUOUS
Even the inner architecture reminds of an ancient world,
with large, visible bricks. A desk is there behind a
reflected glass door that separates the Outer World from
the madness beyond it.
A bored receptionist is drawing something on a piece of
paper as a lady enters the room, wearing a long trenchcoat.
The receptionists musters here, starting from the legs as
he notices her head. Hair wet with water pouring down and
her faced covered in a mask - Circe. She comes to him.
RECEPTIONIST
What... what can I do for you, Miss?
CIRCE
I want to see... Roman Sionis.
RECEPTIONIST
I'm sorry but he is not a state yet
where he can receive visitors.
Circe leans down, pushing her hand on the desk.
CIRCE
Then...
Stands straight again. She removes her mask and gives it to
the receptionist. The receptionist's face friendly facial
expression vanishes, to turn into a mask of terror.
CIRCE (CONT'D)
Just... give him this and tell him
a witch was here.
A quick glimpse at the face is only possible through the
reflection on the glass door behind the man and his desk.
Just a short glimpse of what was once and beauty... now
destroyed once and for all, turned into a grotesque
charicature.
Circe pulls the coat's cape over her face and turns around
to vanish into the rainy outside world.
EXT. CEMETARY -- NIGHT
The Wayne's grave. Birds cross the sky. Leslie Thomkins
with a cane. Bruce. Julie.
BRUCE WAYNE
Mother. Father. I want you to meet--
112.
Bruce pulls Julie to him.
Julie. We are going to marry. I
just wanted to tell you that. I
hope you are happy.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Of course, they are Bruce. All of
us are.
In the background POLICE SIRENS start. Bruce is unrested.
BRUCE WAYNE
Ladies. The last days were way too
exciting for me. I need... some
time alone.
Leslie Thomkins just shakes her head.
JULIE MADISON
Don't worry, Bruce. It was for all
of us.
Bruce walks away.
I love him but sometimes he is just
such a strange guys.
LESLIE THOMKINS
Oh girl. If you'd only know.
EXT. GIGANTIC SKYSCRAPER
-- NIGHT
The gigantic skyscraper is lit by giant police

searchlights. The logo is visible: MILTON FINGER'S HOUSE OF
SHOPPING Four police cars at the ground, some SWAT trucks.
Gordon on the ground.
In the background on another skyscraper a silhoutte
appears. Batman. The Dark Knight. Nemesis of Evil. Ready to
strike fear into the hearts of criminals once again!
FADE OUT.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SCENES OMITTED (THIS DRAFT):
- Bruce and Circe learning of Roman's "death"
113.
- Hugo Strange's sadistic work
- better plot integration of Hugo strange in general!
- Circe saving Batman by secretly unlocking his cage
- Circe and Roman Circe partying in the high society
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
!!!
I can only say it again: Send me some
feedback, to the following adress:
FrankDLawrence@aol.com
;-)

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BATMAN: DARK MASQUERADE

"BATMAN: DARK MASQUERADE"

BEAST emerges and

A quick view of a underground liar of boyish childhood

A typical room for a fit for dissection. Cold tables.

A man with spikes on his neck is running. A shadow is

A large table is there. Almost every seat is taken.

Next to a green hill the Sionis Family Estate lies. Not as

Roman takes a deep look. The bed features two persons,

EXT. SIONIS FAMILY ESTATE -- CONTINUOUS

The Reawakening. Roman's point of view begins under water.

The prison cell in the Crypt has two inhabitants! It's

A man in a trenchcoat is talking to three girls. The girls

A rich man's home. Rich neighborhood. Moderately in size

The supermarket is large. Every kind of product seems to be

They wrestle on the ground. In the distance on a roof a

Bruce hands it to Leslie who reads it.

Tupeng and Thepsis are standing at the roof. The sea is

They are in a room that is filled with lots of large pools.

A large school building. A large logo. Gotham City

guys attack Batman who evades them. Batman uses his

The gigantic skyscraper is lit by giant police

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