Comment as-tu trouvé l'épisode S01E09 ? Échange avec les fans francophones de la série. - Inscris-toi gratuitement et surfe sans pub !
Titre en VO : The Man of Steel Bars
Diffusion US : 21/11/93
Diffusion FR : 10/05/94
Une vague de chaleur s'abat sur Métropolis en plein mois de novembre ! Les scientifiques de Luthor croient que la cause est Superman, qui agirait comme un capteur solaire.
Superman subit un procès où il s’engage à ne pas utiliser ses pouvoirs. Bien sûr, il ne réussit pas à respecter sa promesse. Superman et Clark décident donc de quitter la ville, au cas où ce serait vrai.
Lois qui refuse d’y croire, découvre que la cause est une des usines de Luthor, qui réchauffe l’eau sous la ville. Superman arrête la fusion du réacteur de LexCorp et Clark revient au Daily Planet.
Moments forts :
L'adieu de Clark
Note de l'épisode : 8,5/10
Popularité
Titre VO
The Man of Steel Bars
Titre VF
Chaleur sur la ville
Première diffusion
21.11.1993
Première diffusion en France
10.05.1994
LOIS & CLARK_
The New Adventures of Superman
"Man of Steel Bars"
Written by: PARIS QUALLES
Directed by: BOB BUTLER
_CAST_
CLARK KENT\SUPERMAN
LOIS LANE
PERRY WHITE
JIMMY OLSEN
CAT GRANT
LEX LUTHOR
JONATHAN KENT
MARTHA KENT
JUDGE ANGELA DIGGS
DR. EDWARD SAYER
MAYOR FRANK BERKOWITZ
MIKE MCKEE
EDUARDO FRIEZ
PRISONER
PATRICIA CHENG
SGT. STAHL
OFFICER GIBSON
NIGEL
FOREMAN
CABBIE
BOY
_LOCATIONS_
INTERIORS: EXTERIORS:
Daily Planet Daily Planet
The Pit
Perry's Office Metropolis Skies
Conference Room
Metropolis Courthouse
Luthor's Penthouse
Indoor Spa Metropolis Street
Metropolis Courthouse Train Track
Courtroom
Hallway
Judge's Chambers
Metropolis police Department
Booking
Lock-up
Warehouse Store Room
City Hall - Conference Room
Clark's Apartment
Kent Farmhouse
LexCorp Nuclear Plant
Reactor Core
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 DAILY PLANET - (DAY #1) 1
An incredibly hot day in Metropolis. Most everyone
dresses in shorts. Traffic is snarled as a car gasps, its
hood up, steam billowing from a ruptured radiator. A
couple of kids literally try to fry an egg on the
sidewalk. A near-naked vendor hawks sno-cones. But
something's very wrong with this picture.
The sounds of CHRISTMAS MUSIC lead us to a charity Santa
Claus, sweltering in his heavy garb, ringing a bell for
donations. A sign in the nearby shop reminds: "Only 20
More Shopping Days Until Christmas."
PICK UP LOIS and CLARK exiting the swinging doors onto the
street. As they hit the outside air, Lois reacts.
LOIS
A hundred and five degrees in
December!
CLARK
That was yesterday. Today I heard
one hundred six.
LOIS
I can't work like this. I can't
_think_ like this.
(yells O.S.)
Taxi!
A CAB DRIVER stands outside his car, smoke billowing from
his engine. He's holding up traffic for blocks. She and
Clark take off on foot.
LOIS
(continuing)
We're walking, come on.
She walks across the street, passing the overheated cab.
Clark follows and, as he passes, he surreptitiously blows
a puff of _SUPER COLD BREATH_ onto the steaming radiator.
Clark taps the frustrated cabbie on the shoulder.
CLARK
Maybe you should try her again.
The cabbie looks under the hood.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 2.
1 CONTINUED: 1
CABBIE
Hey, waddya know...
Clark jogs to catch up to Lois.
LOIS
This press conference better be air
conditioned.
She looks around, realizing she's talking to herself.
LOIS
(continuing)
Clark?
He jog up. Lois takes a look at him. His tie is cinched
up, his jacket is on, but he looks cool as a cucumber.
LOIS
(continuing)
What planet are you from? You're
running and you don't even sweat.
CLARK
Bio-rhythmic control.
LOIS
Mind over heat prostration?
CLARK
Something like that.
LOIS
Well, let's hope somebody has some
answers about this heat wave before
your brain boils.
Lois notices a collection of obviously overheated kids,
sitting on the sidewalk curb.
LOIS
(continuing)
Poor kids.
As they pass by a fire hydrant, Clark holds back
momentarily, reaches down and _POPS OFF A PLUG_, releasing
a small gush of cool water. The kids' faces light up as
they rush to play in it. Clark falls back in step with
Lois without missing a beat. Lois notices the water and
the kids, shakes her head, keeps walking.
LOIS
(continuing)
I've never been a summer person.
Especially in the winter.
CUT TO:
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 3.
2 INT. CITY - CONFERENCE ROOM - DAY 2
A full-house of Media, print and broadcast, sit in folding
chairs. Lois looks like she just took a swim with her
clothes on while Clark still looks fresh. On a dais in
front, backed by a large projection screen, sits Mayor
FRANK BERKOWITZ, physicist DR. EDWARD SAYER and LEX
LUTHOR. Everyone fans themselves as reporters yell
questions at random.
REPORTERS
When will it cool down? What's
causing the heat? What do you
know? What aren't you telling us?
etc.
The mayor begs for order.
MAYOR BERKOWITZ
Please, ladies and gentlemen, I
know we're all a bit uncomfortable
but let's try to stay calm. The
last thing we need right now is
panic. One at a time. Mr. McKee,
from Channel Six.
MIKE MCKEE, an outrageous tabloid-style journalist who
makes Geraldo look tame, rises.
MCKEE
Is it true that if the temperature
reaches 115 and everyone keeps
driving their cars that we'll all
die a slow, suffocating death from
carbon monoxide poisoning?
The place goes up for grabs.
MAYOR BERKOWITZ
Of course not! Don't be
ridiculous. The citizens of
Metropolis are perfectly safe.
It's just hot out.
MCKEE
And getting hotter by the hour.
Follow up?
MAYOR BERKOWITZ
No! Next! Miss Lane, Daily
Planet.
Lois stands.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 4.
2 CONTINUED: 2
LOIS
Mister Mayor, between the brownouts
and the blackouts, there doesn't
seem to be enough electricity to
power the air conditioners, let
alone the traffic lights. What's
the city doing about it?
MAYOR BERKOWITZ
There's absolutely no need to worry
about the power supply, it is
completely under...
Just then the lights go off. More pandemonium as they
come back on, but still flicker. Luthor steps up to the
podium.
LUTHOR
Ladies and Gentlemen, if I may...
The reporters quiet down.
LUTHOR
(continuing)
The Mayor has asked me here today
to assure you all that my LexCorps
Power Plant is one hundred percent
ready to go on-line.
Clark stands now, challenging Luthor.
CLARK
Isn't that the nuclear facility
that's still pending approval from
the utility commission?
LUTHOR
Approval that's being granted as we
speak.
CLARK
Weren't there concerns over the
environmental impact statement?
LUTHOR
That statement has been
re-evaluated by a panel of top
scientists, Mr. Kent.
(magnanimously)
Metropolis need power. I have it
to give. The plant will be
operational as soon as humanly
possible.
The crowd responds positively as the lights flicker again.
Lois rises again, as does McKee.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 5.
2 CONTINUED: 2 2
They both start talking at the game time,, but Lois wins by
simply refusing to yield.
LOIS
Another source of energy is helpful
but it's not going to solve the
problem. Where's the heat coming
from?
The mayor turns to Dr. Sayer who continuously wipes his
brow with a handkerchief as he speaks.
DR. SAYER
We've been studying all
meteorological phenomena in the
area, the jet stream, the ozone
layer, even sun spots, but all
patterns have been consistently
normal over a specific control
period.
LOIS
Are you saying there's no
explanation?
DR. SAYER
There are no firm answers...
LOIS
(agitated)
But why only Metropolis It's
twelve degrees in New York, there's
eight inches of snow in Chicago and
we're having a run on sunblock.
DR. SAYER
We're trying everything we can.
There is a theory but...
He trails off. Lois is like a dog with a bone.
LOIS
But what?
DR. SAYER
Well, it hasn't exactly been
proved.
We have a right to know what's
causing this extreme condition.
DR. SAYER
Not what, who.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 6.
2 CONTINUED: 3 2
LOIS
You think one person is responsible
for this?
DR. SAYER
Yes, I do.
LOIS
Dr. Sayer, on behalf of the
citizens of Metropolis, I demand to
know who's causing the heat.
DR. SAYER
Superman.
The room goes up for grabs. Lois is stunned, but not as
much as Clark
FADE OUT.
_END OF TEASER_
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 7.
_ACT_ _ONE_
FADE IN:
3 INT. DAILY PLANET - THE PIT - DAY 3
Lois fumes as science reporter EDUARDO FRIEZ studies
several pairs of satellite thermal maps of Metropolis.
Each pair contains one with more reds and oranges than its
mate. Clark sits, lost in thought. JIMMY, wearing a tank
top, loads a camera.
FRIEZ
Superman affecting our weather.
Huh. It's intriguing, I'll say
that.
JIMMY
Mystery novels are intriguing.
This is libel!
LOIS
(without looking up)
Slander.
CAT enters, wearing a bikini, leaving little to the
imagination. Jimmy looks up. Friez forgets his photos.
Every man in the newsroom (except Clark) tracks her
intently as she moves to her desk.
CAT
The gossip business has heat stroke.
JIMMY
(re: Cat's outfit)
You know, the heat wave does have
it's upside.
LOIS
_Chill_, Jimmy.
JIMMY
Cold shower oughta do it.
PERRY approaches, wearing bermuda shorts and a polo shirt.
Everyone stares.
PERRY
What's the matter, you never seen
legs before? What've we got?
LOIS
We got a half-baked theory.
PERRY
I'm all for poppin' it in the oven.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 8.
3 CONTINUED: 3
FRIEZ
(handing Perry photos)
These are weather maps of Greater
Metropolis taken on successive
days. Cool followed by hot. Each
of the hot days correlates to some
super effort by Superman.
LOIS
(indignant)
Coincidence!
FRIEZ
Maybe. But most physicists do
think Superman's power is solar
induced.
JIMMY
So, lots of things are solar
powered. Why blame Superman?
Clark answers, almost to himself.
CLARK
No one knows how strong his powers
are or how much energy it takes to
re-charge him. Superman could be
drawing the sun's rays down to
Metropolis like a giant heat funnel
and not even know it.
PERRY
But, Superman's been here for
months. I don't see any reason
for Metropolis to start cookin' now.
JIMMY
Yeah, but we had a really hot
summer. Now it's winter, and it's
still hot.
LOIS
Whose side are you on?
CAT
You have to admit, Lois, it could
be possible.
LOIS
You joining the Sister's of Mercy
Convent is more likely.
PERRY
Lois, I understand how you feel.
Heck, we all like Superman.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 9.
3 CONTINUED: 2 3
PERRY (CONT'D)
But we've got to keep an open mind
here.
LOIS
You can't print something like
this.
(to Clark)
Tell him.
All eyes turn to Clark. Finally:
CLARK
Like you said, the public has a
right to know.
LOIS
Clark!
CLARK
If it wasn't Superman, we wouldn't
even be thinking twice about it.
Perry picks up a ringing phone.
PERRY
White... When..? How many..?
(hangs up)
Warehouse explosion, Grey Rock and
Queens Way. Overheated
transformers. Workers trapped.
Clark stands, grabs his notepad.
CLARK
I'll go.
Lois stands to go, too. Perry stops her.
PERRY
Headline: 'Super Feat Equals Super
Heat.' Afternoon edition.
CUT TO:
4 EXT. METROPOLIS SKIES - DAY 4
Superman _FLIES_ above the burning warehouse district.
5 INT. WAREHOUSE STORE ROOM - DAY 5
A group of loading dock workers huddle on the floor with
their mouths covered width shirts, handkerchiefs, etc.
Suddenly, a _HOLE IS PUNCHED IN THE CEILING_ by Superman
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 10.
5 CONTINUED: 5
He lands next to the FOREMAN
SUPERMAN
Are there others besides you?
FOREMAN
No. But there's a transformer
that's about to go down. If it
falls on the gas lines, the whole
block could go up.
Superman nods, _PUNCHES A HOLE, IN THE WALL_.
SUPERMAN
This way.
Superman leads the men through the wall to safety.
CUT TO:
6 INT. LUTHOR'S PENTHOUSE - INDOOR SPA - DAY 6
Luthor reclines in a cool bath as he's being fanned by a
couple of beautiful young women waving palm fronds and
pouring in ice from a gilded bucket. Luthor reads the
afternoon edition of the Daily Planet with a headline that
reads: "Super Feat, Super Heat?"
NIGEL, Luthor's British henchman, enters carrying an
official bound document which he holds out to Luthor.
NIGEL
From the Utilities Commission.
LUTHOR
Ah, yes...
Luthor waves the girls away, dons his robe and steps from
the tub. He opens the document, scans it briefly and
smiles.
LUTHOR
(continuing)
Amazing. My nuclear plant has been
approved for full operation.
Politicians can be so reasonable in
a crisis.
NIGEL
Might it be a good time to power it
up, sir?
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 11.
6 CONTINUED: 6
LUTHOR
Not just yet, Nigel. Any good chef
will tell you, all stews need to
simmer.
Luthor puts a cigar in his mouth, which Nigel moves to
light.
LUTHOR
(continuing)
In fact, I'm feeling a bit chilly.
Perhaps another degree warmer would
be good.
NIGEL
Warmer, Sir?
LUTHOR
Of course. Superman has been kind
enough to use his _powers_ again
today. The newspaper has
cooperated by printing the
_theory_. Now it's time for us to
do our jobs. We must provide...
the _proof_.
Luthor takes a self-satisfied tug on his cigar, as we:
CUT TO:
7 EXT. METROPOLIS COURTHOUSE - DAY 7
City Attorney PATRICIA CHENG stands before a crowd of
reporters and concerned citizens on the courthouse steps.
Clark and Lois are in the crowd and so is Jimmy, who snaps
photos.
CHENG
As the City Attorney for
Metropolis, I will be seeking an
injunction tomorrow ordering
Superman to immediately cease and
desist in the usage of his super
powers.
The crowd responds with boos and hisses.
LOIS
Under what authority?
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 12.
7 CONTINUED 7
CHENG
I am acting under municipal code,
section 12, article 5, the
so-called 'Civic Emergency'
provision.
(holds up document)
I have a subpoena for his
appearance tomorrow morning to show
cause why he should not be so
enjoined. I am making this public
appeal this afternoon asking him to
submit to the laws of this
community.
The TV reporter, McKee, speaks up.
MCKEE
But what if he doesn't? And if
he's endangering the lives of
everyone in Metropolis, shouldn't
you be issuing a shoot-to-kill
warrant?
McKee's done it again. The crowd goes crazy. "Kill
Superman? Is he that dangerous? Etc."
CHENG
I hope we won't be forced to use
any extreme measures.
The impromptu conference breaks up.
LOIS
This is _lunacy_. We have to do
something. Jimmy, find Friez.
We'll start with his maps.
JIMMY
What are we looking for?
LOIS
I'm not sure yet. But the only way
to prove it isn't Superman is to
find out what's really causing this
heat.
Meanwhile, Clark has just been standing there, taking it
all in.
LOIS
(continuing)
Earth to Clark. Hello.
CLARK
Sorry, I... it just can't be true.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 13.
7 CONTINUED: 2 7
She looks at him closely.
LOIS
Well, what do you know. It's
finally getting to you.
CLARK
What do you mean?
LOIS
You're sweating.
But it's not the heat, it's his nerves.
CUT TO:
8. INT. METROPOLIS COURTHOUSE - COURTROOM - (DAY #2) 8
Perry and Lois sit in a loud gallery packed with lawyers,
reporters, and curious citizens. SUPERMAN stands before
Judge ANGELA DIGGS, an African-American jurist who's seen
it all in her courtroom. Also present city attorney
Cheng.
JUDGE DIGGS
(shouting; gaveling)
This court will be in order!
The crowd quiets down.
JUDGE DIGGS
(continuing)
This is a courtroom, not a circus
tent. And this is a gavel. When I
pound it, that's the international
symbol for all of you to shut up.
You got that?
She pounds. They shut up.
JUDGE DIGGS
(continuing)
Good afternoon, Superman. Is that
your real name?
SUPERMAN
That's what people call me.
JUDGE DIGGS
(to court reporter)
Fine. Make it one word.
(to Superman)
I understand you've refused
council.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 14.
8. CONTINUED 8
SUPERMAN
No one can speak better for me than
I can, your Honor.
JUDGE DIGGS
Superman, I have to tell you right
up front that I'm a big fan. A lot
of the dreck you catch ends up
here. What you're doing in my
courtroom is unfortunate, and
between you and me
CHENG
Objection, Your Honor.
JUDGE DIGGS
You can't object, Patricia, this
isn't a trial.
(back to Superman)
You understand why the city
attorney dragged you in here?
SUPERMAN
The theory is that my powers may
be causing the city's meteorological
crisis.
JUDGE DIGGS
What do you think,?
SUPERMAN
I don't know.
JUDGE DIGGS
You sure you don't want to get your
own lawyer in here?
SUPERMAN
The people are worried about me
using my super powers and I want to
put those fears to rest.
JUDGE DIGGS
All right. I guess we can make
this short and sweet. I'm going to
grant this injunction pending
further scientific study.
Superman, you are hereby ordered to
cease and desist all super activity
until further notified. Do you
wish to contest?
SUPERMAN
I'm just as anxious as everyone
else to discover the source of the
heat.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 15.
8 CONTINUED: 2 8
JUDGE DIGGS
No super powers of any kind.
Flying, that vision thing, _nada_.
Comprende?
SUPERMAN
I'll do my best.
JUDGE DIGGS
See to it. Nothing the average
male human could not do. Agreed?
SUPERMAN
Agreed.
JUDGE DIGGS
Okay then, people, we got a deal.
Judge Diggs gavels. The court crowd, including Lois and
Perry, follow Superman out into the...
9 HALLWAY 9
... where everybody stares at him, rushes him, trying to
get a piece of him.
PERRY
Must've been like this when Elvis
played the Sullivan show.
A BAILIFF, leading a shackled PRISONER, turns to catch a
glimpse of Superman. In a split second, the prisoner
grabs the bailiff's gun and holds him hostage. Somebody
SCREAMS and everybody looks.
PRISONER
Everybody back!
The crowd begins to back up. Another bailiff begins to go
for his gun. Before he can even upholster it:
PRISONER
(continuing)
Don't even try it.
It's a tense stand-off. Superman looks around. He
clearly is the last, best hope to avoid a tragedy. He
aims his _HEAT VISION_ at the weapon. It becomes so hot
that the defendant tosses it to the ground. In an
instant, Superman uses _SUPER-SPEED_ to close the gap. He
pries the defendant loose, lifts him off the ground and
delivers him to the second bailiff.
The crowd breaks into spontaneous APPLAUSE. Judge Diggs
and cheng approach.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 16.
9 CONTINUED: 9
CHENG
Did you see that? He violated the
injunction. It didn't even take
him a minute.
JUDGE DIGGS
(sighing)
Superman, you're under arrest.
Shock sweeps the courtroom. Lois confronts Diggs.
LOIS
He saved everybody! Are you crazy?
JUDGE DIGGS
Law's The law. When you break it,
you go to jail.
The bailiff comes to Superman and takes him by the arm as
we:
FADE OUT.
_END OF ACT ONE_
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 17.
_ACT_ _TWO_
FADE IN:
10 INT. METROPOLIS POLICE DEPARTMENT - BOOKING - DAY 10
Superman stands before Sergeant STAHL. On either side of
him are officers GIBSON and Keaton. Stahl stares a long
moment at Superman, then at the officers.
SGT. STAHL
I gotta ask for your personal
belongings. Wallet, that kind of
thing.
SUPERMAN
I don't carry any.
SGT. STAHL
No ID or anything?
SUPERMAN
Most people know who I &m.
SGT. STAHL
Would you mind stepping away for a
minute?
Superman steps away. Stahl whispers to Gibson and Keaton.
SGT. STAHL
(continuing)
Who's gonna do a strip search here?
OFFICER GIBSON
Not me, I'm thirty days away from
pension.
Sgt. Stahl waves Superman back. He takes a deep breath
and tentatively starts to pat him down.
SUPERMAN
Excuse me, I couldn't help but
overhear. I've never needed to
carry a weapon.
SGT. STAHL
(relieved)
Then, we're gonna skip this little
technicality and go straight to the
easy stuff.
11 CLOSE - SUPERMAN'S FINGER 11
on a fingerprint inkpad. The thumb is inked, then rolled
on the pad, leaving only a solid black oval.
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 18.
12 BACK TO SCENE 12
As officer Gibson adjusts his glasses and peers at the
imprint. He takes a file finger print card (of a
human-type defendant) and compares the two. Re-inking
Superman's fingers, he tries another angle, and another.
Gibson shrugs to his fellow caps.
13 INSERT - SUPERMAN PROFILE 13
First, from the left. Mug shot. Complete with booking
number dangling from his neck. FLASH!! Now, the right
profile. FLASH!! Full face. FLASH!!
14 SERIES OF SHOTS - SUPERMAN AND COPS 14
Sgt. Stahl, Officer Gibson, Officer Keaton. One after
another, mugging for the camera, determined to get a
little memento from this event. Finally, a group photo:
all the cops of the booking area crowded around the Man of
Steel Bars.
15 BACK TO SCENE 15
As the group photo breaks up, back into reality. Superman
shakes hands with the cops like he's the guest of honor at
a fraternity party. He turns to Sgt. Stahl:
SUPERMAN
May I make a phone call?
SGT. STAHL
(giving him a quarter)
You've got one coming.
Stahl points to a pay phone (Lex-Tel) on the wall.
Superman nods, goes over and starts to punch out a number.
He turns his back to gain privacy.
SUPERMAN
(as Clark)
Chief, this is ...
Superman's voice trails off. Sgt. Stahl is listening in.
16 INT. DAILY PLANET - PERRY'S OFFICE - DAY 16
PERRY
Kent! That you?
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 19.
17 INTERCUT: BOOKING AREA / PERRY'S OFFICE 17
Superman breathes a sigh of relief.
SUPERMAN
Yes. Yes, it is.
PERRY
Where are you?
SUPERMAN
At the police station.
PERRY
Good. Stay there. I want a first
hand account of Superman's arrest.
SUPERMAN
That shouldn't be a problem.
CUT TO:
18 INT. METROPOLIS POLICE DEPARTMENT - LOCK-UP - DAY 18
Officers Gibson and Keaton lead Superman down a corridor
of facing cells. The occupants stare and SHOUT as he
passes. They stop at one cell, open the door and Superman
steps in. The door CLANGS shut.
Superman sizes up his surroundings as his cellmates size
him up. Nearly half a dozen men, large and mean, stripped
to the waist because of the heat, including the prisoner
Superman disarmed in the courtroom.
PRISONER
Hey, boys, look what we got. The
Man of Steel Bars
(to Superman)
You gonna break us out of here?
SUPERMAN
No.
PRISONER
That's right. You can't use your
powers
(to others)
He's no better'n us now. I'm
cryin' buckets
(starts slapping
Superman)
Watch this. I'm slappin' Superman.
(steps on Superman's
boots)
Watch this. I'm steppin' on
Superman's toes.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 20.
18 CONTINUED: 18
Superman puts up with this, but his fuse is lit.
PRISONER
(continuing)
Watch this!
The prisoner hauls off with a major punch aimed at
Superman's jaw. At the last possible milli-second,
Superman slips the punch. It lands with a crunch in the
nose of the biggest, meanest, nastiest guy in the cell.
He begins to move on the prisoner who turns to Superman.
PRISONER
(continuing)
You want to help me out here?
Superman smiles as the prisoner cowers from his attacker.
CUT TO:
19 INT. METROPOLIS COURTHOUSE - COURTROOM - DAY 18
Again, an overflow crowd which includes Lois and Perry.
Several box fans are on the job. Judge Diggs has not yet
taken the bench. Superman sits alone at a defense table.
LOIS
Chief, we've got to do something.
PERRY
Lois, our job here is objectivity.
LOIS
We could hire him a lawyer.
PERRY
The man's doing fine on his own.
Judge Diggs enters the courtroom. People start to rise,
but she gavels as they do.
JUDGE DIGGS
Sit down, sit down.
(reads document)
Let's get down to it. The charge
is contempt of court. How do you
plead.
SUPERMAN
Court is not something I'm
contemptuous of, Your Honor. I've
sworn to fight for truth and
justice.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 21.
19 CONTINUED: 19
JUDGE DIGGS
All I'm looking for is guilty or
not guilty.
SUPERMAN
Not guilty.
JUDGE DIGGS
So recorded. All right, I'm
entertaining bail requests.
SUPERMAN
I'd like to be released on my own
recognizance, your honor.
CHENG
Objection!
Cheng jumps up, inadvertently knocking her coffee cup in
Superman's direction. Instinctively he pulls back, like
any of us would. Except that when he jumps, he hovers
three feet in the air and lands on the railing behind him.
City Attorney Cheng looks over at him.
CHENG
(continuing)
He's an obvious _flight risk_!
Judge Diggs looks back and forth between the two tables.
Superman sheepishly climbs down. Diggs puts her head in
her hands.
JUDGE DIGGS
What on _earth_ am I supposed to do
with him?
Perry stands up.
PERRY
Your Honor, Perry White, Editor of
the Daily Planet. I just want to
say that Superman is a person of
absolute integrity, honesty and
decency.
Lois can only stare, surprised at Perry's outburst. The
judge sees a solution
JUDGE DIGGS
So you're willing to vouch for him,
is that it?
PERRY
Absolutely.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 22.
19 CONTINUED: 2 19
JUDGE DIGGS
Sold!
She bangs her gavel.
PERRY
What
JUDGE DIGGS
He's yours. The Daily Planet is
now responsible for the whereabouts
of Superman. I mean, what am I
going to do? I can't hold him if
he doesn't want to be held. You
it for awhile.
Perry is shocked. Lois is ecstatic.
JUDGE DIGGS
(continuing; to
Superman)
No super powers. Period. Is that
clear?
Superman nods his agreement, then turns to face Lois and
Perry. He gives then a reluctant smile.
LOIS
(gleefully)
Way to be objective, Chief.
CUT TO:
20 INT. DAILY PLANET - THE PIT - DAY 20
The place is hot. More box fans. Fewer clothes. Frayed
tempers. Lethargic reporters. Among them, Lois, who
pulls her sweaty clothes away from her body and hammers
away on her word processor. Jimmy approaches, throws a
stack of maps on her desk.
JIMMY
Maps. Everything they had at the
news conference _you_ now have.
LOIS
I need more.
JIMMY
More _maps_?
LOIS
I want everything. I want LandSat,
Geothermal, meteorological.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 23.
20 CONTINUED: 20
LOIS (CONT'D)
If it says Metropolis on it, I
it. I even want street maps.
JIMMY
Why?
LOIS
Because there might be something
there.
JIMMY
(miserable)
A.S.A.P.
LOIS
Good. How's Superman?
JIMMY
He's, uh, getting the 'Treatment.'
Lois looks up toward Perry's office.
LOIS
Oh, no.
CUT TO:
21 INT. DAILY PLANET - PERRY'S OFFICE - DAY 21
Superman sits earnestly on Perry's couch, stifling a yawn.
Perry is having a great time.
PERRY
You see, son, Elvis was a law
abiding citizen himself. Sure he
had a brush or two on the wrong
side in his later years but, on the
whole, he had his heart in the
right place. Just like you. Thing
was he was famous. And famous
people are targets in this day and
age, I don't need to tell you, do
I?
SUPERMAN
Uh-uh. You don't need to tell me.
PERRY
And, of course, President Nixon
considered making Elvis an honorary
FBI agent.
A KNOCK at the door. Lois doesn't wait, enters.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 24.
21 CONTINUED: 21
LOIS
Chief, I hate to interrupt, but I
really need you to take a look at
my copy.
PERRY
I'm kind of in the middle of
something here, Lois.
LOIS
It's important.
SUPERMAN
Please, Mister White, go ahead.
You should act like I'm not even
here.
PERRY
Well, son, you right as well see
how we run a world class newspaper.
Lois hands it to him and he starts to read. She smiles at
Superman. He smiles back. She blushes.
PERRY
(continuing)
What the heck is this?
LOIS
(back to reality)
It's my take.
PERRY
Here's my take. You're too close
to this.
LOIS
It's the truth.
PERRY
(to Superman)
No offense, but I can't run a puff
piece, even about you.
Cat passes the open door, sees Superman and stops.
CAT
Well, hello.
Superman turns to Cat as Lois and Perry keep arguing.
SUPERMAN
(politely)
Hello.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 25.
21 CONTINUED: 2 21
LOIS
Run it on the Op/Ed page.
PERRY
I need something for the front
page.
LOIS
Do we have to argue about this in
front of Superman?
PERRY
Uh-uh. You could recognize my
experience, wisdom and authority
and give in. You think about it
while I get Superman squared away.
(to Superman)
You have a place to stay tonight?
LOIS CAT
He can stay with He can stay with
me. me.
Lois sees Cat moving in on Superman and places herself
between them.
LOIS
Don't you think all the mirrors
over the bed would keep him awake?
CAT
Count on it.
SUPERMAN
Why don't I stay with Clark? I
don't think he'd mind.
PERRY
Perfect. Where is he anyway?
LOIS
He called in with some of the jail
piece. I think he was on his way
home.
PERRY
Okay by your, Superman?
SUPERMAN
(nods)
Clark seems like a nice guy. Sure.
CUT TO:
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 26.
22 INT. LUTHOR'S PENTHOUSE - STUDY - NIGHT 22
Doctor Sayer stands in front of Luthor who displays a
simmering anger.
DR. SAYER
I'm letting worried. Polonium
readings beneath the city are
higher than we planned.
LUTHOR
I would think the five million
dollars I've paid you could buy
some peace of mind.
Luthor impatiently holds out his hand to Sayer who
reluctantly hands over a briefcase. Luthor snaps it open
revealing:
23 INSERT - BRIEFCASE CONTENTS 23
Revealing electronics with buttons and a digital
temperature display which reads: "108 Degrees F."
24 BACK TO SCENE 24
Luthor leans back in his chair, considering his options.
LUTHOR
But, in deference to your concerns
I think the good citizens of
Metropolis deserve a break,
especially since our friend in the
cape hasn't been in action all day.
Luthor begins to re-program the case. The display chances
from "108 Degrees" to "88." Luthor changes his mind and
makes it "89."
DR. SAYER
Well, it's about time. You said
you'd only make it hot for a few
days. It's been weeks.
LUTHOR
What can I say? When I find
something I enjoy, I stick with it.
DR. SAYER
But it's over now, right?
LUTHOR
I believe that's up to Superman.
Nigel enters.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 27.
24 CONTINUED: 24
NIGEL
All is set, Sir. The ten-thirty
five is on schedule.
LUTHOR
Very good, Nigel. Have a very
pleasant evening.
Nigel nods, disappears. Sayer looks very concerned.
DR. SAYER
The ten-thirty five?
LUTHOR
I'm afraid there's going to be
another mishap and, if Superman is
true to form, the temperature will
be going up.
(off Saver's reaction)
Why so down, doctor? This just
further proves your theory.
Champagne?
Luthor begins to pour from an open bottle, as we:
CUT TO:
25 INT. CLARK'S APARTMENT - (NIGHT #2) 25
Clark is on the telephone.
CLARK
You don't need to come. I can
handle this.
26 INT. KENT FARMHOUSE - NIGHT 26
JONATHAN and MARTHA are on the phone.
JONATHAN
We know you can handle it, Clark
We just want to help you.
27 INTERCUT: CLARK'S APARTMENT / KENT FARMHOUSE 27
CLARK
Don't come. I appreciate it but
don't come.
MARTHA
We'll stay out of your way.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 28.
27 CONTINUED: 27
CLARK
It's more than I can handle.
MARTHA
But you need us
JONATHAN
(firmly; to Martha)
He doesn't want us to come, Martha.
MARTHA
Clark, we love you and we're
thinking about you every minute.
CLARK
I know you are. I'm thinking about
you, too. Goodnight.
MARTHA JONATHAN
Goodnight. See you, son.
Everyone hangs up. Stay with the Kents. Martha turns to
Jonathan and says in a voice that brooks no dissent:
MARTHA
Start packing.
CUT TO:
28 INT. CLARK'S APARTMENT - NIGHT 28
Clark hangs up the phone. Moves to the kitchen area,
takes out a tea bag, pours a cup of water. He starts to
lower his glasses to use his heat vision, obviously thinks
better of it, pushes then back up. He rumbles around in a
cluttered shelf, produces a teapot. He fills it with
water, puts it on the stove. There's a KNOCK at the door.
LOIS (O.S.)
Clark! Open up. It's me.
Clark looks around quickly. Has no choice but to open the
door. He stands, however, blocking her entrance.
CLARK
Hey, Lois. What's up?
LOIS
I came to fix you a decent meal.
CLARK
We're not hungry.
Lois pushes her way in, leaving the door open.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 29.
28 CONTINUED: 28
LOIS
I'm trying to do something nice
here, Clark. Where's Superman? Is
he all right?
CLARK
He's fine.
LOIS
(looking around)
Clark, the man needs company. He
needs to know that somebody cares.
CLARK
I think he just wants to be alone.
LOIS
He said that?
CLARK
Yes.
LOIS
That's _so_ like him. He's
obviously reaching out for help in
his time of need. Good thing I
came.
Lois tracks straight into the kitchen area, puts the bags
on the table.
LOIS
(continuing)
So, where is he?
CLARK
He's, uh... in the shower.
LOIS
Superman's in the... shower? Did
you actually see him... I mean...
the outfit actually comes off...?
CLARK
I didn't look.
LOIS
No, of course not. I wouldn't
either.
(beat)
I don't hear any water.
CLARK
He probably just got out.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 30.
28 CONTINUED: 2 28
LOIS
I wonder if he likes pasta salad?
Lois starts off toward the bathroom. Clark panics, grabs
Lois.
CLARK
Wait!
LOIS
What? I'm just going to ask him...
CLARK
(vamping)
Look, Lois, the man just got out of
the shower. Give him some privacy.
(taking off)
I'll ask him.
Lois sighs in frustration, turns back to the grocery baas,
begins unloading. Clark disappears discretely into the
bathroom. _A SECOND AFTER THE DOOR CLOSES, IT OPENS_
_AGAIN_. Now he's dressed as Superman, and carries a
towel. He moves to the kitchen area. Lois' back is
turned. He goes to the stove, picks up the boiling tea
kettle, uses his _SUPER-BREATH_ to cool it off. Then
dumps the water over his head. He starts toweling off his
hair as she turns around.
SUPERMAN
You don't need to make dinner.
Lois jumps. It was so sudden.
LOIS
It's you!
(composing herself)
It's okay. I want to. You do...
eat... don't you?
SUPERMAN
I don't have to. But I like to.
LOIS
Then you'll love this. I know how
to make four things. This is the
only one without chocolate.
SUPERMAN
I'm sure it's delicious
Lois smiles, so enamored of him that she begins to put the
groceries back _into_ the bag. He stops her.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 31.
28 CONTINUED: 3 28
SUPERMAN
(continuing)
We'll never eat that way.
The BACKGROUND MUSIC gives way to a NEWS BULLETIN. Lois
moves to Clark's stereo and turns up the volume.
RADIO VOICE
--high speed Metro train has
lost its brakes. Passengers in the
main terminal are being evacuated,
but there are over three-hundred
people at risk on the train.
LOIS
I'm sorry, Superman, but dinner's
going to have to wait. I gotta go.
SUPERMAN
That's all right. I do, too.
Superman steps to the window and throws it open.
LOIS
Wait! What are you doing?
SUPERMAN
I'm going to stop the train.
LOIS
You can't.
SUPERMAN
I have to, Lois. You know it, too.
Lois takes a beat, realizing the complication. Suddenly
she snaps out of it.
LOIS
Clark and I will meet you there.
(turning)
Clark!?
As she turns, he blows a short puff of air over shoulder,
causing the door to slam shut.
SUPERMAN
Looks like he's already on his way.
Superman _FLIES_ out the window, as Lois charges out the
front door, yelling ahead of her as she goes.
LOIS
Great! What kind of partner are
you, Clark? You call this loyalty?
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 32.
29 EXT. TRAIN TRACK - NIGHT 29
Superman stands on the track, his back arched against the
forward momentum of a speeding train. Smoke rises from
the tracks. The IMAGE of a thermometer with the mercury
rising CROSS DISSOLVES over this.
CUT TO:
30 INT. LUTHOR'S PENTHOUSE - NIGHT 30
Luthor stands on over an elaborate set of toy trains,
working the controls. A train speeds along the track.
LUTHOR
Superman to the rescue!
He pushes a button and the train stops millimeters away
from a plastic Superman figure in the middle of the
tracks.
LUTHOR
(continuing)
It'll be a hot time in the old town
tonight.
FADE OUT.
_END OF ACT TWO_
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 33.
_ACT_ _THREE_
FADE IN:
31 EXT. FREEWAYS - (DAY #3) - (STOCK) 31
To suggest the summer-type gridlock associated with
millions of Metropolitans fleeing the city. Heat waves,
exhaust, honking horns, moving inch-by-inch.
RADIO VOICE
Lex-Con weather and traffic: it's a
hundred and twenty degrees and the
freeways are choked as thousands
flee metropolis for cooler weather.
In the news, Superman has again
violated the injunction against the
use of his super-powers by saving
three hundred and twenty-five
commuters on a runaway train...
CUT TO:
32 INT. CLARK'S APARTMENT - BEDROOM - DAY 32
Where Clark lays on his bed listening to this, obviously
in turmoil. He throws his legs over the bed, sits up.
The closet door is half open. Hanging there is the
Superman uniform. It's grown to mean a lot to him. To
everyone.
RADIO VOICE
Authorities have given Superman
until noon today to surrender.
Clark switches off the radio. He's heard enough. He
walks over to the costume, holds the upper body shirt,
stares at the "S" as if trying to memorize it.
CUT TO:
33 INT. DAILY PLANET - THE PIT - DAY 33
A extra-extra large circulating fan is being set up by a
couple of workers. Staffers either fan themselves at
their desk or drag themselves to their work stations.
Jimmy passes by, burdened by a stack of maps, photos and
papers that goes all the way from the bottom of his arms
to his chin. He dumps them on Lois's desk.
JIMMY
This is everything. I was up all
night. Alphabetized, collated, you
name it, I did it.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 34.
33 CONTINUED: 33
LOIS
Thanks, Jimmy. I know it looks
kind of desperate but... it's kind
of desperate.
JIMMY
Hey, anything to help Superman.
The worker fires up the huge fan. It sends a mega-blast
of air directly at Lois and Jimmy, and sends Jimmy's
delivery flying wildly all around the newsroom. Lois and
Jimmy start scurrying after the maps.
LOIS
Turn that thing off!
Lois and Jimmy are on their hands and knees on the floor.
JIMMY
(disheartened)
Any chance they, landed in order?
Lois drops the papers she's collected and just stares at
the mess.
LOIS
Oh, what's the use. We're just
grasping at straws. The most
brilliant scientists in the world
can't find a reason for the heat,
what makes us think we can?
JIMMY
You're right. This stuff has
probably been panned and scanned
and crossed and re-crossed a
million times.
They gather the maps with a lot less enthusiasm. Lois
looks closely at one as she picks it up.
LOIS
Hey, Jimmy, what's this one?
Jimmy takes it from her and unpeels two transparencies
That were stuck to each other.
JIMMY
Uh, sorry. Plum sauce. I got
hungry at three in the morning.
LOIS
No, wait. You see how it shows
a completely different pattern when
you put the two together?
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 35.
33 CONTINUED: 2 33
JIMMY
Yeah, so?
LOIS
So what if you were wrong? What if
nobody's bothered to cross
reference all these maps? Look at
all the different agencies and
departments you got these from.
What if we're the first ones to
gather them all together at the
same time?
JIMMY
You mean maybe we could discover a
pattern no one else has thought of?
LOIS
It's worth a try. Get these down
to the computer room and start
scanning.
PERRY (O.S.)
Lois!
She looks up to find Perry heading toward her.
PERRY
Lois, get off your knees and get to
the courthouse.
LOIS
(scrambling up)
What's going on?
PERRY
Superman's ready to turn himself
in.
LOIS
I thought I wasn't objective enough
to cover this story.
PERRY
I'm running a newsroom with
everybody missing in action.
Either they're sick or they got a
sick aunt in Nova Scotia. Even
Kent's got heat stroke so it's you
or no one.
LOIS
I'm on it.
She grabs a pad and heads out.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 36.
33 CONTINUED: 3 33
PERRY
Lois!
She turns back. He takes a beat.
LOIS
How what?
PERRY
You tell Superman I'm pullin' for
him.
Lois shares Perry's emotions
LOIS
I will, Chief, I will.
CUT TO:
34 INT. METROPOLIS COURTHOUSE - JUDGE'S CHAMBERS - DAY 34
Judge Diggs sits behind her desk in a pair of running
shorts and a tee-shirt, fanning herself with a paper fan.
Her black robe hangs behind her in front of a library of
law books. Also present, city attorney Cheng and
Superman. A Christmas tree in the corner has lost all its
needles and decorations hang pathetically on its bare
branches.
JUDGE DIGGS
Last night you stopped a train.
This morning it's like a blast
furnace out there.
SUPERMAN
I did what I had to do. There were
three hundred lives at stake.
CHENG
There are millions more out there
in the city.
JUDGE DIGGS
Now I know that's circumstantial
but to tell 1 you the truth, I don't
think we have time for a trail. I
think we have time for a plea
bargain. And we're not leaving
this room until we have a deal.
(to Cheng)
Take your best shot.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 37.
34 CONTINUED: 34
CHENG
Superman agrees to leave Metropolis
for the rest of his natural born
life --
JUDGE DIGGS
-- whatever that is --
CHENG
-- and not to return. If you
agree, we let him walk -- or fly,
as long as it's out of here.
JUDGE DIGGS
The decision's yours, Superman.
Leave Metropolis and keep your
freedom or stay here in the
lock-up. And this time I'll call
in the Marines to keep you there if
I have to.
Diggs and Cheng look at Superman. Outside, protestors are
heard chanting: "Superman Must Go." Off Superman, who
faces the hardest decision of his life.
CUT TO:
35 EXT. METROPOLIS COURTHOUSE - DAY 35
A full crowd of protestors continue the chant, "Superman
Must Go." Lois exits a cab and pushes her way through
them, moving up the stairs. Suddenly, the crowd breaks
out into boos. It's Superman exiting the front doors. He
makes a statement.
SUPERMAN
When I first came to Metropolis I
said I came 'to help.' That's
still how I feel. But I'm going to
have to find another place and
another way. I have agreed to
voluntarily leave Metropolis within
twenty-four hours. I believe it's
the best way to put all your fears
to rest. I will miss everyone.
Thank you.
Superman begins to move down the steps. Lois stops
Superman.
LOIS
You can't leave.
SUPERMAN
I don't have a choice.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 38.
35 CONTINUED: 35
LOIS
They _can't_ be right.
The look between then says it all. There are no more
words. Superman pushes on through the crowd. Lois
watches a moment, fighting back the lump in her throat.
Superman moves through the crowd. Some of its anger has
been dissipated by the announcement. Some scattered
"goodbyes" along with a few still angry "good riddances."
A hard object suddenly hits him in the chest and falls to
the ground. He bends down and slowly picks it up. With
the object in his hand, he scans the jeering crowd.
36 SUPERMAN's POV - CROWD 36
His scan stops at a young BOY who looks away and runs off.
OFF the expression on Superman's face.
CUT TO:
37 INT. LUTHOR'S PENTHOUSE - DAY 37
Luthor stands with his back to us, looking out over the
Metropolis skyline.
LUTHOR
Knock, knock.
Nigel is standing at attention across the room.
NIGEL
Who's there, sir?
LUTHOR
Superman.
NIGEL
Superman who?
Luthor turns to face us. The smile that spreads across
his face is complete.
LUTHOR
Exactly.
He laughs triumphantly.
LUTHOR
(continuing)
I've won. I've beaten him. This
is a joyous day, Nigel.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 39.
37 CONTINUED: 37
NIGEL
Yes, sir.
Lex slaps on the back.
LUTHOR
I can always count on you for a
dose of mirth, but now it's back to
business.
Luthor picks up the phone, touches a speed dial button.
LUTHOR
(continuing)
Mayor Berkowitz, Lex Luthor. We
can have the plant on line
tomorrow. I should like very much
to have you by my side to throw the
switch that will power it up. You
deserve some credit here, Frank.
You've done a fine job.
CUT TO:
38 INT. DAILY PLANET - THE PIT - (NIGHT #3) 38
A skeleton crew on the job. Lois sits alone at her desk,
staring at her computer screen. Lois turns away,
struggling with the enormity of it all. A moment plays.
Then:
JIMMY
Uh, Lois...
Lois looks up. Her eves are moist, it's hard for her to
talk and Jimmy knows it.
JIMMY
(continuing)
I, uh, hey, never mind. Not
important.
LOIS
No. Go ahead, Jimmy. What is it?
JIMMY
I don't know. I was just wondering
if you still need that stuff on the
computer?
LOIS
Do you think we should give up?
JIMMY
No way.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 40.
38 CONTINUED: 38
LOIS
Me, neither.
He hands her a copy of the Planet folded over to a
specific article.
JIMMY
Did you see this? I guess C.K.
made it to the courthouse today
after all.
She starts to read.
LOIS
"The crowd reacted with surprise
and relief. It was all over.
Superman knew it. He felt an
object strike him in the chest.
Something hard, small, thrown with
a force much less than that of an
adult. Searching the mob as he
knelt to retrieve it, Superman's
eyes fell on the face of a young
boy. The boy appeared to force
back tears as Superman identified
the object -- a plastic, Superman
action figure.
(beat)
Superman slowly rose with the
toy -- a ninety-nine cent lump of
molded plastic that was once
priceless to its young owner.
Superman wanted to return it but in
a second the boy was gone. And so
was his hero.
Lois has teared up. Jimmy looks like he might be ready to
cry, too. He just keeps it in and says:
JIMMY
I'll have all this stuff ready for
you in the morning. First thing.
CUT TO:
39 INT. CLARK'S APARTMENT - NIGHT 39
The sound of a KEY in a lock and the door swings open.
Clark enters the dimly lit living room and freezes.
40 CLARK'S POV - JONATHAN AND MARTHA KENT 40
waiting for him on the sofa.
MARTHA
Are you mad?
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 41.
41 BACK TO CLARK 41
... The only smile he can muster.
CLARK
I've never been so glad to see you
guys in my
Martha comes over and hugs him. He hugs back. Jonathan
comes over, too, and puts his hands on his son's shoulder.
DISSOLVE TO:
42 LIVING ROOM 42
Clark sits on a chair as Martha enters with cups of
coffee. She hands one to Jonathan.
JONATHAN
(to Clark)
You don't have to do this.
CLARK
What choice do I have?
MARTHA
But do you believe it? Do you
honestly think you're causing this
heat wave?
CLARK
I don't k,now, Mom. But everyone
else thinks I am.
JONATHAN
Who cares what everyone else
thinks?!
They all share Jonathan's frustration. He regains his
composure.
JONATHAN
(continuing)
This was your dream, Clark. A good
job, a real life for yourself here
in Metropolis. Why do you have to
lose that? It's only Superman who
has to leave.
CLARK
I can't just turn it off, Dad. I
can't look past people who are
hurting, people in trouble, knowing
I could help them but having to
stop myself.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 42.
42 CONTINUED: 42
MARTHA
You're such a special person,
Clark. It's not fair that you're
being punished for it.
CLARK
Mom, please. I've made up my mind.
Jonathan puts his arm around Martha
JONATHAN
All right, then, we'll take you
home, son.
CLARK
No. I can't go back to Smallville.
MARTHA
I know it's not the big city but --
CLARK
It's not that. What if I am a
solar conductor? I could never
take the chance of hurting you and
Dad.
JONATHAN
Then where are you going to go?
CLARK
I don't know yet. Just away from
the people I love the most.
The Kent's look at their son. Their hearts are breaking.
CUT TO:
43 DAILY PLANET - CONFERENCE ROOM - NIGHT 43
Lois sits in the empty newsroom, surrounded by physics
textbooks, her head down on the table from exhaustion.
She hears drawers opening and closing and things being
tossed around. She looks up to find Clark cleaning out
his desk.
LOIS
Where've you been?
Clark turns around, not expecting to see her.
CLARK
Lois...
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 43.
43 CONTINUED: 43
LOIS
I've been trying to find something,
_Anything_ to help Superman.
CLARK
It's late, Lois. Why don't you go
home now.
LOIS
Because there's no _time_. Here,
you take these...
(hands him some books)
...Jimmy should be almost through
scanning those maps into the
computer and then we can
CLARK
I'm leaving, Lois.
LOIS
You just got here!
He puts the books down and continues putting his things
into a cardboard box.
CLARK
I'm leaving Metropolis.
LOIS
I know it's hot but now is not the
time to take a vacation.
CLARK
For good.
Lois realizes what he's saying.
LOIS
You're quitting.
The words make him bristle.
CLARK
I have to.
LOIS
Don't be ridiculous, we've got work
to do or else Superman will --
CLARK
Don't you get it, Lois? It's over.
Superman's gone and there's nothing
we can do about it.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 44.
43 CONTINUED: 2 43
LOIS
I'll never stop trying because I
know Superman would never stop
trying
CLARK
Maybe you don't know him as well as
you think.
LOIS
But I know you. You're not a
quitter
CLARK
I guess I can't live in a place
that would do something like this
to someone who was only trying to
do the right thing.
LOIS
Clark, the Daily Planet needs you.
(beat)
I need you.
CLARK
Trust me. It'll be better for you
this way. You don't need a
partner, Lois. You never did.
LOIS
I know. But now I want one.
(realizing)
You were doing to leave without
even saying goodbye.
Clark takes a sealed envelope out of his pocket. It
says "Lois" on it.
CLARK
This will explain everything.
She takes it from him.
LOIS
I'm not going to read it. I know
you'll be back.
He looks at her, studies her, so he won't forget her.
Then he kisses her. They look at each other for a beat.
CLARK
Goodbye, Lois.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 45.
43 CONTINUED: 3 43
He takes his box and leaves her standing by the empty
desk. She watches him cross the newsroom and walk out of
her life.
FADE OUT.
_END_ _OF_ _ACT_ _THREE_
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 46.
_ACT_ _FOUR_
FADE IN:
44 INT. DAILY PLANET - (DAY #4) 44
Perry ushers Lois out of his office.
PERRY
Will you be okay?
LOIS
Fine, Chief.
But her spirit is down.
PERRY
Kent's a helluva reporter. But so
are you. If anyone can find a way
to save Superman, you can.
LOIS
Yes, Sir.
She walks across the newsroom, meets up with Jimmy not his
usual self either.
JIMMY
Lois, you all right?
LOIS
I'm _fine_, Jimmy.
JIMMY
Maps are in the computer. I can
start checking...
LOIS
Good.
JIMMY
Look...
LOIS
Just call me if you find something.
Thanks.
JIMMY
Sure
She sits down at her desk. Clark's unread note staring
her in the face. She picks it up, almost opens it. Cat
walks by.
CAT
Hi, Lois.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 47.
44 CONTINUED: 44
LOIS
(exploding)
Okay, just stop it.
CAT
Stop what?
LOIS
Stop trying to be nice.
CAT
All I said was hello.
LOIS
Exactly. No little dig, no rude
remark. It's not normal. I mean,
everyone's acting like I lost my
best friend or something.
Cat gives her a beat to realize what she's just said.
CAT
You and I should talk.
LOIS
Now why would I want to do that?
CAT
Because I know more about losing
men than you might think.
Lois finally lets her feelings out.
LOIS
First Superman, now Clark. I don't
know who I'll miss more.
Cat understands. Off Lois' long face.
CUT TO:
45 ENT. METROPOLIS STREETS - DAY 45
Clark walks the streets of the city he loves, taking one
last look. He passes a news stand, spots a copy of the
Daily Planet. He picks it up. The headline reads
"FAREWELL SUPERMAN." He puts it back. He hers some
YELLING across the street. Two MEN are having a heated
altercation over a fender bender. They come to blows.
Clark's first instinct is to race across the street and
break them up. But he stops himself. They throw some
punches at each other but then a Beat Cop rushes over and
pulls them apart. All Clark can do is walk away. He
finds himself in front of the Daily Planet building. He
looks up at the globe and everything it represents to him.
He stars at it for a moment, nods his head goodbye, then
walks away, never looking back.
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 48.
46 INT. DAILY PLANET - COMPUTER ROOM - DAY 46
An excited Jimmy leads Lois into the room.
LOIS
Air conditioning! No wonder you
spent the night here.
JIMMY
Well, it paid off. I think I found
something. Actually, the computer
found something. I confirmed it
with our distinguished science
editor.
Jimmy sits at one of the consoles.
LOIS
(impatiently)
What?
JIMMY
(proudly)
Polonium.
LOIS
What?
JIMMY
Pol... here.
Jimmy loads on the screen a spider-webby geothermal map.
JIMMY
(continuing)
Remember this?
LOIS
Yes. Heat distribution around
Metropolis.
JIMMY
Right. Now...
He looks another map on top: an exact match. Lois leans
in closer, reads aloud.
LOIS
'Metropolis Geological Survey...
subterranean... bismuth.'
She looks the question at Jimmy.
JIMMY
The naturally occurring element
bismuth is distributed beneath
Metropolis in the exact same
pattern as the heat, concentration.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 49.
46 CONTINUED: 46
LOIS
Bismuth is causing the heat?
JIMMY
No, polonium. Bismuth is
relatively inert. It wouldn't
cause heat. _Unless_ it was
exposed to radiation. Then it
could change to the radioactive
element polonium. _That_ would
cause heat.
LOIS
So you're saying radiation is
turning this bismuth into polonium
and _that's_ what's heating us up?
JIMMY
That's the theory.
LOIS
Is the radiation coring from
Superman?
JIMMY
Not likely. He hasn't tested
radioactive in the past.
LOIS
Are we all in danger of radiation
poisoning?
JIMMY
Not necessarily. You could get a
lot of heat out of polonium before
you'd get to threatening levels.
LOIS
That red spot, is that where it's
the hottest?
JIMMY
Yeah.
LOIS
What's above it?
Jimmy enlarges the red spot, then presses another button.
The street map of Metropolis flashes on. There it is, in
bold letters: LEXCORPS NUCLEAR PLANT.
LOIS
(continuing)
But that plant isn't operational
yet.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 50.
46 CONTINUED: 2 46
JIMMY
Could be a slow leak out of the
reactor core.
LOIS
They're due to go on-line this
afternoon. What happens when they
throw the switch?
JIMMY
It could send a surge of neutrons
straight into the ground and then
it won't matter how hot it is
anymore.
LOIS
We've got to find Superman.
CUT TO:
47 EXT. DAILY PLANET - DAY 47
Lois bursts forth from the building onto the street.
She's lost, looking around, trying to make something
happen. She sees McKee, the TV reporter, doing a stand-up
in front of his camera crew.
MCKEE
Superman is taking a super hike and
not soon enough as far as this
reporter's concerned. Not only is
he responsible for baking
Metropolis, but rumor has it that
his force field is the real reason
the Metropolitans lost the pennant
this year.
The gears are turning in Lois's mind. A plan is hatching.
She moves in front of the camera.
MCKEE
(continuing)
Hey, we're 'live' here.
LOIS
(to cameraman)
Keep rolling!
(grabbing microphone)
Superman, if you can hear this,
come back! Or if any of you out
there know where Superman is, get
him this message. We've figured
this out. It's not you. You're
not the problem and you never were.
(MORE)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 51.
47 CONTINUED: 47
LOIS (CONT'D)
But it's an emergency and we need
you now! Meet me at the LexCorp
Nuclear Plant and I'll explain
everything. And Superman, hurry.
McKee grabs the microphone back and immediately addresses
the camera.
MCKEE
You heard it here first. There's
an emergency at Lex Corp's Nuclear
Plant, maybe even a melt down...
CUT TO:
48 EXT. CLARK'S APARTMENT - DAY 48
Clark and Jonathan finish jamming the last box into the
four-wheeler. Jonathan slams the back door shut. Clark
takes a deep breath, soaking in the moment, the feelings,
the memories. Suddenly, Martha comes bounding down the
stairs:
MARTHA
Clark! Clark!
CUT TO:
49 INT. LEXCORP NUCLEAR PLANT - DAY 49
Luthor, Mayor Berkowitz, Sayer, dignitaries and members of
the Media are gathered in front of a glass panel that
separates them from the workings of the Command and
Control Center.
MAYOR BERKOWITZ
As your mayor, I know how difficult
these past days have been. It
gives me great pleasure to tell you
that within minutes air
conditioners will be humming all
over the great city of ours.
Mister Luthor?
Lex steps before a huge ceremonial looking switch.
LUTHOR
This switch is connected to the
LexCorp Command and Control Center
you see behind me. By activating
it, we put LexCorp Nuclear on-line.
Let's wait no longer...
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 52.
49 CONTINUED: 49
Lex throws the switch. There is applause from the
audience. Superman and Lois burst onto the scene.
SUPERMAN
Stop!
LUTHOR
I'm afraid stopping is not one of
the options, Superman.
LOIS
We think there's a leak in the
reactor core. That's what's been
causing the heat, not Superman.
LUTHOR
Dr. Sayer has given me his
assurance there is no leak.
LOIS
There has to be. The only other
possibility is that somebody was
causing a chemical reaction to heat
Metropolis up on purpose.
SUPERMAN
You know anything about that,
Luthor?
LUTHOR
It's unthinkable. Therefore, we
must stop this leak you're talking
about.
A technician approaches Luthor, whispers in his ear.
LUTHOR
(continuing)
We're on-line. The fuel rods are
hot.
SUPERMAN
Can your men shut it door?
LUTHOR
No. Once the sequence is
initiated, it's physically
impossible. It's a safety feature.
Superman moves toward the entrance to the containment
chamber. Heavily signed to prevent unauthorized entrance.
MAYOR BERKOWITZ
You can't go in there! The
radiation...
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 53.
49 CONTINUED: 2 49
Superman does in anyway. The mayor turns to the
technician. The technician shrugs. With this guy, who
knows?
CUT TO:
50 INT. REACTOR CORE - DAY 50
Superman enters this No-Man's Land of nuclear chain
reaction. KLAXONS sounds at the trespass. We hear a
computer voice:
COMPUTER VOICE
Warning. The reactor core has been
breached. All personnel must wear
appropriate protective gear.
Warning. The reactor core has been
breached...
The fuel rods are immersed in a bubbling stew of
radioactivity. Superman _JUMPS IN_ to the containment
core. As he holds his breath, WE SEE him physically
_MUSCLE THE VARIOUS RODS FREE_ from their berths and
_THROW THEM OUT_ of the fuel area.
CUT TO:
51 INT. LUTHOR'S PENTHOUSE - DAY 51
Luthor stews as he checks one flow sheet after another.
Nigel enters, stands before him.
LUTHOR
The plant's a total loss, Nigel.
And the insurance underwriters
won't cover it either.
Environmental clause.
NIGEL
Terribly sorry, sir.
LUTHOR
Oh, but there's more. The city
expects me to pay all the clean-up
expenses. Plus the 'bonus' I had
to pay Dr. Sayer to assure his
'cooperation' in the investigation.
NIGEL
And Superman....
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 54.
51 CONTINUED: 53.
LUTHOR
Superman not only had the pleasure
of dismantling my plant and
throwing hundreds of millions of
dollars into space, but the
radioactivity didn't even affect him.
(beat)
Yes, Nigel. What more gloom do you
wish to bring to my attention?
NIGEL
Well, sir, I thought you should be
pleased to hear that the LexCorp
Water and Air Conditioning
divisions did make a two-thousand
percent profit over the last three
weeks.
A long beat. Luthor breaks into a smile, and then he
breaks into song. "LOOK FOR THE SILVER LIKING." In the
process, Nigel joins him in harmony.
CUT TO:
52 INT. DAILY PLANET - PERRY'S OFFICE - DAY 52
Falling snow is visible through the window. Perry
approaches Lois who sits glumly at her desk. Jimmy is
nearby.
PERRY
Snow on the ground. Superman in
the sky. Everything's right with the
world.
Lois stares at Clark's empty desk.
PERRY
(continuing)
Almost everything.
Jimmy's face brightens.
JIMMY
Hey, C.K.!
Clark heads towards his desk carrying his box.
PERRY
(satisfied)
Everything. So, Kent, I heard you
were doing some early Spring
cleaning last night.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 55.
52 CONTINUED: 52
CLARK
Chief, I --
PERRY
Well, in case you hadn't noticed,
it's _winter_ out there. Now put
these things back on your desk and
get to work. Lois needs help on
the Nuclear Plant follow-up.
CLARK
Yes, Sir.
Clark looks at Lois who has busied herself at her desk.
PERRY
(privately)
Don't worry, son, that heat made us
all more 'n a little crazy.
Perry goes back to his office and Jimmy comes up, grabbing
his box.
JIMMY
I'll take this before you change
your mind.
Jimmy starts unpacking Clark's stuff as he goes over to
Lois.
LOIS
I told you you'd be back.
CLARK
I'm glad you were right.
(beat)
You really did it. You saved
Superman.
LOIS
And he saved Metropolis. Even
after the way he was treated.
CLARK
I guess he couldn't give up after
all.
The boy who through the Superman doll enters the newsroom.
Someone points him in Clark's direction.
BOY
You Clark Kent?
Clark recognizes him.
(CONTINUED)
--page break--
MAN OF STEEL BARS (#8) 9/21/93 56.
52 CONTINUED: 2 52
CLARK
Yes, I am.
BOY
You wrote that article about me and
Superman?
CLARK
Yup.
BOY
You have to write another one.
It's really important. You gotta
tell him that I'm sorry, that I
take it back. We all do.
CLARK
I think he already knows.
BOY
And tell him, if he still has it, I
want my Superman back.
Clark walks over to his desk. He reaches into the box and
pulls out the Superman doll.
CLARK
I picked it up on the courthouse
steps. I was hoping you'd still
want it back.
BOY
Thanks. Don't forget the article!
The boy breaks into a smile. Clark smiles and walks back
to Lois. He spots something on her desk.
CLARK
You won't be needing this anymore.
He picks up the unread note and puts it back in his
pocket.
LOIS
Hey, wait a minute! I didn't even
get a chance to read it. What did
it say?
CLARK
I guess you'll never know.
Lois ponders the missed opportunity as we...
FADE OUT.
_THE END_
Au total, 35 membres ont visionné cet épisode ! Ci-dessous les derniers à l'avoir vu...
carine79
31.08.2021 vers 09h
neko123
30.06.2020 vers 10h
Emmalyne
12.02.2020 vers 21h
schumi
26.07.2019 vers 22h
Aloha81
29.07.2018 vers 16h
seriepoi
03.07.2018 vers 14h
Avant de poster un commentaire, clique ici pour t'identifier.
C'est drole je viens de regarder cet épisode en pleine canicule (il y a avait seulement 42 par chez moi hier lol) et il revet une saveur particulière! Déjà une dénonciation du réchauffement climatique je ne suis pas sûre mais cet épisode était vraiment sympa! Enfin mettre Superman en prison alors qu'il sauve tout le monde c'est gonflé quand même...
Heureusement tout est bien qui finit bien et Clark va pouvoir continuer à sauver le monde car la situation ressemblait à un sacré dilemme quand meme!
On est en 1993 et on fait déjà un épisode sur le réchauffement climatique ... avec 35°.... Mémoire. [Forum Saison 1]
Merci aux 2 rédacteurs qui ont contribué à la rédaction de cette fiche épisode
L'équipe HypnoCheck recrute ! | En savoir plus
L'équipe HypnoDiff recrute ! | Plus d'infos
HypnoMag | Lire le nouveau numéro !
Alternative Awards | On compte sur vous !
Les Acteurs
23.02.2024
S01E01 Première - Pilot
07.02.2024
Loïs et Clark reviennent sur 6ter à partir du 5 août prochain
A compter du 5 août, 6ter va rediffuser la série Loïs et Clark : Les nouvelles aventures de...
Alternative Awards 2020 : pensez à voter !
Les Alternative Awards 2020 ont débuté depuis le début de la semaine. Les catégories se succèdent,...
Lois Lane dans la course sur The X-Files !
Lois Lane est de retour ! L'intrépide et talentueuse journaliste est en lice pour intégrer le...
![[HypnoCup] Élimination de Clark](/graph/news_icon/news_icon-93ab562db0f0329ef1031b8cf78f253e.jpg?v1){kind=icon}
[HypnoCup] Élimination de Clark
Les nouvelles aventures de Clark se sont arrêtées : il a été éliminé de l'HypnoCup par Melinda...
![[HypnoCup] Clark en compétition dans le 3ème tour !](/graph/news_icon/news_icon-cfb55615fcdcd4242c27c8fcd3b7f915.jpg?v1){kind=icon}
[HypnoCup] Clark en compétition dans le 3ème tour !
Après avoir éliminé son adversaire Firestorm avec une confortable avance sur lui (100 à 63), Clark...
Les nouveautés des séries et de notre site une fois par mois dans ta boîte mail ?
choup37, 18.04.2024 à 08:49
5 participants prennent part actuellement à la chasse aux gobelins sur doctor who, y aura-t-il un sixième? 
chrismaz66, 18.04.2024 à 11:04
Choup tu as 3 joueurs de plus que moi!! Kaamelott est en animation, 3 jeux, venez tenter le coup, c'est gratis! Bonne journée ^^
choup37, 19.04.2024 à 19:45
Maintenant j'en ai plus que deux, je joue aussi sur kaa 
