E-NIGMA

THE BATMAN

Written by
Lee Cordner

Season One, Episode Two




















FADE IN:

EXT. QUARRY -- NIGHT

Vicki Vale bashes into a chain link fence. She tries to climb
over but its got barbed wire over the top. She tries to
squeeze through the centre of the gate, but the padlock is
too tightly linked on the large chain.

Her clothes are ripped, her hair is a mess. Shes covered in
mud and crying, terrified of something.

A man comes out of the shadows, dressed in a dark green suit
with a question mark tie and a silver cane which too, has a
question mark for a handle.

THE RIDDLER
Riddle me this, riddle me that, why oh
why do you try to escape me cat?

VICKI VALE
What do you want with me!?

THE RIDDLER
That my dear is...

Riddler reveals his face.

THE RIDDLER (CONTD)
The riddle.

Riddler laughs, Vicki screams for help as his hand covers her
mouth with a white cloth, covered in chloroform.

Vicki falls unconscious to the ground, Riddler looks down on
her.

THE RIDDLER (CONTD)
Now to send your knight a piece of his
armour.

Riddler takes a silver necklace from Vickis neck, places it
into a brown envelope and seals it shut.

SMASH TO:

SUPER: THE BATMAN

2.

SUPER EP: E-NIGMA

FADE IN:

EXT. WAYNE TOWER -- DAY

Vicki Vale steps out of a news van with a cameraman in tow.
Charles Taylor, acting head of the board at Wayne Enterprises
is standing near a pedestal with half a dozen microphones
around him. She has that necklace on.

FEMALE REPORTER
So what do you know of this Batman
character? Most of his equipment seems
top of the range.
(Beat)
Did Wayne Enterprises have anything to
do with him?

CHARLES TAYLOR
I assure all of you, that this Batman
character is nothing to do with this
company. Hes just a nutjob in a black
suit who goes around pretending to be a
hero. The equipment he uses can be found
in any hardware store, including that cattle
prod of his.

VICKI VALE
But you have to admit, that bike of
his is quite something.

CHARLES TAYLOR
Who are you?

VICKI VALE
Vicki Vale, Gotham Local.

CHARLES TAYLOR
Yes, well - the bike is quite advanced
for it to be found at a retailer, but it
did not come from here.

Vicki pulls out a small black book as another woman, looking
very rushed, runs over.

3.

VICKI VALE
(To Woman)
Take this.

Vicki hands her a small microphone.

VICKI VALE (CONTD)
When hes not looking, slip this into his
pocket. Well get our scoop.

WOMAN
But-

VICKI VALE
Just do it.

Woman nods.

Vicki turns to her cameraman.

VICKI VALE (CONTD)
He cant hide from the truth forever.

CUT TO:

INT. WAYNES OFFICE -- MINUTES LATER

Bruce is looking out of the window over the interview down
below on the street.

DAVID HUTCH
Theyre like cockroaches. Always around
when you dont want them to be, and they
always come back no matter how many times
you squash them.

BRUCE WAYNE
Its their job, Hutch.

Hutch looks over from the chair, hes got a round blue ball
in his hand.

DAVID HUTCH
The names David, Wayne.

Bruce turns to Hutch.
4.

BRUCE WAYNE
What do you want, Hutch?

DAVID HUTCH
What do you make of this Batman
character? Quite the guy huh?

BRUCE WAYNE
And how would I know that?

DAVID HUTCH
Wow, youre in a bad mood.

BRUCE WAYNE
I was up working all night, something you
wouldnt know anything about.

DAVID HUTCH
Thats cold, man. Ive been working.

Bruce walks to his desk and sits in the chair. Hutch stands
up and walks to the door.

DAVID HUTCH (CONTD)
Oh, that file your father was working on.
Find it yet?

BRUCE WAYNE
What file?

DAVID HUTCH
Never mind, Im sure well find it
eventually.

Lucius Fox enters. He seems hurried, panting as if hes been
running.

DAVID HUTCH (CONTD)
Whoa, watch it Fox.

LUCIUS FOX
(Ignoring Hutch)
Bruce, I need you in the research bay.
Weve got something. Something big.

Bruce follows Lucius.
5.

INT. RESEARCH LAB -- MOMENTS LATER

Bruce and Lucius enter. Theres a big electronic globe
sitting in the middle of the room, its sending out waves of
electronic energy.

A crazy guy is there, in a white lab coat with messy sandy
coloured hair and a look of awe on his face.

EDWARD NIGMA
I cant believe it! It works!

BRUCE WAYNE
Whats going on, Lucius?

Lucius and Bruce walk to the computer. It shows that the
globe has a lot of energy, double the size of Gotham City.

LUCIUS FOX
It started ten minutes ago, after he - he
did something! I dont know what he did but
he got it working.

BRUCE WAYNE
Shut it off.

LUCIUS FOX
This is great, Bruce, this is what weve
been working for.

Bruce points at the monitor.

BRUCE WAYNE
If that thing blows, itll wipe out the
city.

LUCIUS FOX
What do you mean?

BRUCE WAYNE
Its nuclear!

Lucius realises, he runs over to the switches and turns them
both off. The globe powers down, Edward watches on as it dies
before his very eyes. He then turns around and sees Bruce
Wayne standing there.
6.

BRUCE WAYNE (CONTD)
Are you insane?!

EDWARD NIGMA
It was working, why did you - it was
working you idiot!

Edward grabs Bruce, who quickly turns it around and sweeps
Edwards legs out from under him, forcing the madman to the
ground.

Lucius and two security guards run over.

BRUCE WAYNE
Get this guy out of here before he kills
someone.

The two security guards whisk Edward to his feet and drag him
out of the room. Lucius watches on as Bruce pulls out a
strange silver cartridge from the drive.

LUCIUS FOX
Are you all right?

BRUCE WAYNE
Im fine. Destroy this thing.

Bruce hands Lucius the cartridge and walks out of the room.
The scientists look around, shocked.

LUCIUS FOX
Get back to work.

CUT TO:

INT. WAYNES OFFICE -- NOON

Edward Nigma is sitting on a chair in front of Bruces desk
when Bruce enters. He seems quite angry.

BRUCE WAYNE
What the hell were you thinking? You
could have wiped out the city with that
little stunt of yours. Using a nuclear
guidance drive as a power source, you
idiot.
7.

EDWARD NIGMA
But I got the power working.

BRUCE WAYNE
At what cost? Every single person in
that lab is going to have to be tested
for radiation poisoning, including me.
(Beat, sighs)
Youre fired.

Edwards eyes open widely.

EDWARD NIGMA
Please - Im sorry - Give me another
chance.

BRUCE WAYNE
Youre lucky I dont call the cops, get
out of here before I change my mind and
if I see you anywhere near this place
again, Ill have you arrested. Now go.

Edward walks out of the room as- VICKI VALE enters.

VICKI VALE
Well, he seems sad.

BRUCE WAYNE
Im not taking questions right now.
And how did you get in here?

VICKI VALE
Used the front door.

BRUCE WAYNE
Look, Im a little busy right now.

VICKI VALE
Well as long as youre a little busy
and not a lot, youve got time to
answer a few questions.

Vicki takes a seat, she smiles as she pulls out her little
black book.

Bruce sighs.
8.

Edward watches Vicki from outside the office. He sneers and
walks off.

BRUCE WAYNE
Could we make this quick?

VICKI VALE
Sure thing cupcake. Now, this Batman
character who has been flying around the
city. What do you know of him?

BRUCE WAYNE
Hes a nutjob.

VICKI VALE
Im intrigued.

BRUCE WAYNE
The guy goes around dressed as a bat
saving people from thugs and lowlifes
for a living, hes not a hero. Hes a
vigilante.

VICKI VALE
You would know of that.

BRUCE WAYNE
Excuse me?

VICKI VALE
Nine years old when that man killed
your parents, I bet you wanted to kill
the guy responsible. No?

BRUCE WAYNE
Ive had my thoughts, but thats what the
cops are for. Putting the criminal behind
bars.

VICKI VALE
And what do you have to say about the
time when Detective James Gordon was
taken by the Joker. Then he was saved
by the Batman. He doesnt sound like a
vigilante when he saves cops.

9.

Bruce looks at his watch. He stands up and grabs his coat
from the rack. He opens the door and motions to Vicki to get
out.

VICKI VALE (CONTD)
Going somewhere?

BRUCE WAYNE
Ive got an appointment.

Vicki walks past Bruce, but before she leaves she slips her
card into his hand.

VICKI VALE
If you want to talk, call me.

Vicki leaves. Bruce looks at the card and throws it to his
desk before leaving the office.

CUT TO:

INT. THE BATCAVE/THOMAS LABORATORY -- LATER

Bruce stands before Callies monitors. Shes running a
diagnostic on the new Batsuit.

CALLIE (O.S.)
It seems fine, but its a little on the
heavy side, are you sure about this?

BRUCE WAYNE
When Joker stabbed me I could feel the
tip of the blade pierce the armour. My
father might have stopped it from taking
bullets but not knives. The extra weight
is steel, it will protect me from knives
and anything that can be used to stab me.

CALLIE (O.S.)
But manoeuvrability might be tougher
considering the extra weight.

BRUCE WAYNE
Thats a chance well have to take.

Bruce checks the line of Baterangs on the counter.
10.

CALLIE (O.S.)
Oh, the baterangs you requested are in
development now. Im implementing the
sonic device as you asked.

BRUCE WAYNE
Good.

Bruce walks over to the tank, he looks at it. Its still
unfinished.

BRUCE WAYNE (CONTD)
How long before this things operational?

CALLIE (O.S.)
Your father was keen at building it many
years ago, he gave me some files but not
everything. Ill need a mechanic to aid
me.

BRUCE WAYNE
Ive got just the man.

INT. KITCHEN -- AFTERNOON

Alfred is preparing a lunch for Bruce. White bread, lettuce,
tomato already prepared. Bacon sizzling in the pan.

BRUCE WAYNE
Alfred, are you busy?

ALFRED
Im just preparing your lunch sir.

BRUCE WAYNE
I need your help.

ALFRED
In the aquarium sir?

BRUCE WAYNE
Yes.

Alfred joins Bruce after taking the pan off the stove. The
bacons done.

11.

INT. AQUARIUM -- CONTINUOUS

Bruce and Alfred step through the door. Alfred sees a dark
passage before him and raises his eyebrows.

BRUCE WAYNE
So youre good with cars, right?

ALFRED
I do not consider myself an expert, but
I know a thing or two.

BRUCE WAYNE
Then follow me.

Bruce leads Alfred down the dark passage.

INT. THE BATCAVE -- CONTINUOUS

Bruce and Alfred enter the batcave, Alfred is astonished to
see everything down there as he passes through the archway.

BRUCE WAYNE
My father was building a tank, or a UPV
for the Gotham City Police Department
before he died. But he never finished it.
Callie has some files, but shes not able
to recognize most of the parts. She needs
you to help her build it.

ALFRED
(Looks at Batsuit)
Youre the Batman?

BRUCE WAYNE
Oh yeah, err - I shouldve have - probably
told you about that little detail.

ALFRED
I must protest sir, its dangerous.

CALLIE (O.S.)
He has never been close to death, master
Pennyworth.

Alfred looks around.
12.

ALFRED
I must be going mad sir, Im hearing
voices.

BRUCE WAYNE
(Laughs)
Oh no, thats just Callie.

ALFRED
Another woman sir?

BRUCE WAYNE
No. My father created her, shes an
artificial intelligence calibration
computer. Callie for short.

CALLIE (O.S.)
I would be more than willing to prove
myself to you.

ALFRED
Then go ahead, my dear.

CALLIE (O.S.)
Very well.

Callie starts putting things from Alfreds life on the
monitors before his eyes.

CALLIE (O.S.)
Alfred Pennyworth, born November eighth
nineteen forty nine. Father was killed in
Vietnam, mother died aged seventy three in
nineteen eighty eight. Only one sibling, an
Alan Pennyworth, currently residing in
Manchester, England at the Pennyworth estate.
Your family is quite rich, yet you seem to be
working here.

BRUCE WAYNE
You never told me you were rich.

ALFRED
Im not sir, but my brother owns a large
corporation of import/export, trading cars
and goods for a lot of money.
13.

Bruce nods.

ALFRED (CONTD)
So what is it you wish me to do?

BRUCE WAYNE
Wow.

ALFRED
What?

BRUCE WAYNE
Well, youre willing to help me even
though youre against me being the Batman.

ALFRED
I swore to your mother that I would take
care of you no matter what. If this is what
you want, then I will make sure you have the
best quality. I wouldnt want you hurting
yourself. Its my duty to see you safe.

BRUCE WAYNE
Thanks, Alfred.

ALFRED
Oh, a Victoria Vale called for you this
afternoon and left her number. She said
she has made the dinner reservations at
the restaurant. Says to meet her there
at eight oclock.

BRUCE WAYNE
She did huh?

Bruce takes the number paper from Alfreds hand. He walks out
of the Batcave.

CUT TO:

INT. LOBBY -- MOMENTS LATER

Bruce picks up the phone and dials the number.

It rings for a few moments.

14.

VICKI VALE (O.S.)
Hi Bruce.

BRUCE WAYNE
Whats your deal, Vicki?

VICKI VALE (O.S.)
Well, I took it upon myself to make
a reservation in your name at the new
restaurant that opened downtown last
week.

BRUCE WAYNE
Why?

INT. VICKIS BATHROOM -- CONTINUOUS

Vicki is in a bubble bath, relaxing with the phone near her
ear.

VICKI VALE
Im interested in you, Bruce. You make
me wonder about things.

BRUCE WAYNE (O.S.)
Youre insane.

VICKI VALE
(Laughs)
Look Bruce, let me get to the meat of it.
I want you to come and meet me at the-

OFF SCREEN: Floorboards CREAK!

Vicki looks over to the bathroom door, she sees a shadow.

BRUCE WAYNE (O.S.)
Vicki, you still there?

VICKI VALE
(Whispers)
I think theres someone in my apartment.

INT. LOBBY -- CONTINUOUS

Bruce shakes his head.
15.

BRUCE WAYNE
How many times do I have to tell-

VICKI VALE (O.S.)
(Screaming)
Help me!

Bruce can hear the sounds of struggle on the other end of the
phone, and then hears a loud smashing sound as footsteps walk
closer to the phone.

BRUCE WAYNE
Vicki, are you still there? Vicki?

THE RIDDLER (O.S.)
(Creepy)
She cant come to the phone right now.
Shes a little, tied up.

BRUCE WAYNE
Who the hell are you?

THE RIDDLER (O.S.)
Well thats the riddle, Bruce.

BRUCE WAYNE
What do you want?

THE RIDDLER (O.S.)
(Laughs hysterically)
What do I want!? WHAT DO I WANT?!
(Beat, laughs again)
No. No. No. NO! Bruce. Its what you want
that means something. Riddle me this, riddle
me that: Are you able to save your cat?

BRUCE WAYNE
Cat?

THE RIDDLER (O.S.)
Your girly friend here, you idiot!
(Laughs)
Figure out my riddle, and see where the
path takes you. But be quick, you have
until midnight to find her. And dont go
to the cops! I have your phone tapped.
16.

Riddler hangs up.

Bruce stands there, a look of shock on his face. He puts the
phone down and runs into the aquarium.

INT. THE BATCAVE -- MOMENTS LATER

Bruce runs down the steps.

CALLIE (O.S.)
Your heartbeat is irregular.

BRUCE WAYNE
Someone kidnapped, Vicki.

ALFRED
Who?

BRUCE WAYNE
I dont know, he said something about
saving a cat in a riddle way.

ALFRED
Tabby Way, its a small street in downtown
Gotham.

Bruce looks at the Batsuit.

ALFRED (CONTD)
Are you going out, in the day, sir?

BRUCE WAYNE
How long until night?

ALFRED
One hour.

Bruce looks at his watch. Its just after four.

BRUCE WAYNE
Thatll give me about seven hours.
I have to go to her apartment now.

ALFRED
Who was it?

17.

BRUCE WAYNE
He didnt say.

CALLIE (O.S.)
(Replays Riddler call)
From his voice I can derive a local
signature, it shouldnt take me too
long. But Miss Vale cannot wait until I
have identification, Bruce, you need to
go.

Bruce takes the Batsuit out of the cylinder.

INT. THE BATCAVE -- LATER

Bruce steps into the light, revealing his new Batsuit, fully
created. Bat ears, the silver bat symbol on his chest. The
cape, the Baterangs, Batrod still sheathed and the Batclaw on
the other leg and Bathook on his wrist.

BATMAN
Itd be useful to have those sonic
baterangs now. Might come in handy against
this lunatic.

CALLIE (O.S.)
You can use the one I have prepared. It
should be enough for this mission.

ALFRED
You cannot take the Benz, sir.
Not dressed like that.

BATMAN
Weve got something, Alfred.

Garage door opens, the Batcyle comes out. Its a little
different before, and has a larger exhaust pipe.

Batman gets on the bike.

ALFRED
I take it you wont be home for dinner
then?

Batman drives off.
18.

BATMAN (O.S.)
Probably not, Alfred. Well order take
out.

Batman cuts off the radio connection to Callie.

ALFRED
Then I shall not cook.

CUT TO:

EXT. GOTHAM CITY STREETS -- MOMENTS LATER

Batman drives through oncoming traffic. People on the
sidewalks flash their camera phones as he zooms past. Cars
beep their horns, cop cars beep their sirens twice to
acknowledge Batman.

CUT TO:

INT. COMMISSIONER WALKERS OFFICE -- DUSK

Walker is going over some paperwork when he comes across an
envelope addressed to him, personally. Made up of stuck on
newspaper letters.

He opens it.

CAPTAIN WALKER
(Reading)
Once walked a madman, through deaths row.
When he came across, a single old foe.
His name was a mystery, as was his crime.
Those who fought for him, believed his slime.
Until that day, when his enemy rose.
From the darkness, with a really big nose.
It was him who came, to my disgrace.
I was at last, put in my place.
(Beat, sighs)
Joker.

Walker picks up the phone and dials a number.

CAPTAIN WALKER (CONTD)
Get Gordon in here, Annette.

19.

A few moments pass, Gordon finally enters.

Walker hands him the note as Gordon takes a seat.

JAMES GORDON
(Reads note)
What is this?

CAPTAIN WALKER
Its from our clown friend, Joker.

JAMES GORDON
This isnt his style.

CAPTAIN WALKER
Oh I forgot, you know everything about
him. Gordon, who is Batman? Why did he
save you?

JAMES GORDON
He just said he was a friend.

CAPTAIN WALKER
Its strange is all.

JAMES GORDON
Strange?

CAPTAIN WALKER
All of these nut jobs out in the city and
all of a sudden a masked vigilante appears
just in time to save you from receiving a
hole in the head. Its just, strange.

JAMES GORDON
He was in the right place at the right
time. Its hardly strange.

CAPTAIN WALKER
Look at it from my perspective. Joker takes
you hostage, then a few hours later Batman
shows up, saves you and then flees before
backup arrives. Its hardly heroic.

JAMES GORDON
He hardly fled, he just drove away.
20.

CAPTAIN WALKER
Thats not the point. I want something
done about this masked vigilante. I want
him arrested, brought to justice. This sort
of work is what cops were invented for, we
cant have a civilian doing our work, before
you know it theyll be more masked madmen
out there cleaning up our streets. Since
you were the one he saved, I am appointing
you to apprehending him.

JAMES GORDON
You want me to arrest a hero?

CAPTAIN WALKER
Did I stutter? Yes, I want you to arrest
him. Then the people of Gotham can see
that Im fully capable of containing the
Joker and the criminals of this city without
help from some masked crime fighter.

Gordon sighs, he nods and walks out of the door.

Captain Walker lights up a cigar and sits back in his chair,
he glances at the note from Joker on his desk.

CUT TO:

INT. ABANDONED BUILDING -- SUNSET

Edward Nigma is standing near the window, hes not wearing
the Riddler outfit. All around him sits computers, monitors
and such that he can watch.

Nigma glances at the Riddler outfit on the counter next to
him. He smiles and turns to see- VICKI VALE! Tied to a chair,
blindfolded.

VICKI VALE
(Waking up)
Where? Where am I?

EDWARD NIGMA
Somewhere, quiet. My dear sweet Victoria.

Vicki squirms, but her hands are tied.
21.

VICKI VALE
Who are you, what do you want with me?

EDWARD NIGMA
That would be the riddle.

VICKI VALE
The riddle?

EDWARD NIGMA
Do you like riddles, Victoria?

VICKI VALE
My name is Vicki.

EDWARD NIGMA
You didnt answer my question, do you like
riddles?

VICKI VALE
No.

EDWARD NIGMA
Well, even though you dont I have one
for you. What is black and comes at night,
when all hope seems lost at first sight?

VICKI VALE
Batman.

EDWARD NIGMA
You see, that wasnt so difficult. Now for
something a little - tougher. What is blue
and red, that comes when you dial from bed?

VICKI VALE
The police.

EDWARD NIGMA
What is strong and weak at the same time,
even though its his duty to fight crime?

VICKI VALE
I dont know.

Edward smiles.
22.

EDWARD NIGMA
Think my dear, THINK!

VICKI VALE
Commissioner.

EDWARD NIGMA
Very good. Very good indeed.

Edward turns to the monitor. He sees the front door open.

INT. VICKI VALES APARTMENT -- CONTINUOUS

Bruce steps through the doorway, he walks into the hallway
where Riddler has set up a dozen cameras.

INT. ABANDONED BUILDING -- CONTINUOUS

Edward watches the monitor. He smiles, and claps.

EDWARD NIGMA
Well, well, well. It seems as though the
great Bruce Wayne does have a weakness
after all.

INT. VICKI VALES APARTMENT -- CONTINUOUS

BRUCE WAYNE
Where is she?

EDWARD NIGMA (O.S.)
Somewhere, safe and secure.

BRUCE WAYNE
What are the cameras for?

INT. ABANDONED BUILDING -- CONTINUOUS

Edward puts ear muffs over Vickis ears, preventing her from
hearing anything.

INT. VICKI VALES APARTMENT -- CONTINUOUS

EDWARD NIGMA (O.S.)
Its good to see you came to save
your damsel.
23.

BRUCE WAYNE
Who are you and what do you want?

EDWARD NIGMA (O.S.)
Something that you stole from me. My drive.

BRUCE WAYNE
Edward?

EDWARD NIGMA (O.S.)
Bravo, Mister Wayne. Bra-VO!

BRUCE WAYNE
God damn it, what the hell do you want?

EDWARD NIGMA (O.S.)
Bring the drive to me, and I shall let
you take back what I stole from you.

BRUCE WAYNE
Youre outta your mind. Im not gonna
give you something that could kill millions
of innocent people.

EDWARD NIGMA (O.S.)
(Laughs)
But you are, Bruce. Because youre her
knight in shining armour and you would do
anything to save her. So let me put this in
a way even your corporate mind can understand.
Bring me the drive, and Ill let her go. If
you fail or go to the cops, she will - lose -
a finger or two.

BRUCE WAYNE
I cant get the drive, it was destroyed.

EDWARD NIGMA (O.S.)
Theres another one, Lucius Fox knows
where it is. Find him, get the drive and
solve my riddle. You have until midnight.

BRUCE WAYNE
What riddle?

Bruce looks around.
24.

EDWARD NIGMA (O.S.)
This one: What is big, round and used for
mining, where all workers clock their timing?
Clocks ticking Bruce, bye-bye.

BRUCE WAYNE
Wait!

TICK-TOC. Clocks start ticking, Bruce looks around. He sees
the clocks, he has until midnight to find Vicki and solve the
riddle.

Bruce leaves the apartment.

INT. ABANDONED BUILDING -- CONTINUOUS

Edward takes the muffles out of Vickis ear.

VICKI VALE
Who was that?

EDWARD NIGMA
Your knight in shining armour.

Edward laughs as he picks up his Riddler outfit. He then puts
his hat on, and walks out of the room leaving Vicki tied to
the chair unable to break loose.

CUT TO:

EXT. WAYNE ENTERPRISES -- NIGHT

The batcycle is parked in the alleyway besides Wayne
Enterprises. Batman is nowhere to be seen.

INT. RESEARCH LAB -- CONTINUOUS

Lucius Fox is working on something, hes soldering a chip
onto a motherboard. He knocks his cup of coffee over the
paperwork on his desk and stands up, wiping the coffee away.

Batman steps out of the shadows. Lucius steps back in shock,
he grabs at his chest.

LUCIUS FOX
What are you doing here?!
25.

BATMAN
Easy Lucius, Im not here to hurt you.

LUCIUS FOX
You nearly gave me a heart attack.

BATMAN
I apologize, but I couldnt be seen
coming in. I need your help.

LUCIUS FOX
Why in gods name would I help you?

BATMAN
January eighth.

Lucius thinks for a moment, and then realises.

LUCIUS FOX
(Whisper)
Bruce?

BATMAN
(Nods)
I need the guidance drive.

LUCIUS FOX
It was destroyed.

BATMAN
Not the second one, where is it?

LUCIUS FOX
How do you know about that?

BATMAN
I was told, by Nigma.

LUCIUS FOX
This way.

Lucius leads Batman down a hallway.

INT. SOUNDPROOF LAB -- CONTINUOUS

Batman and Lucius step inside.
26.

Lucius locks the room and turns off the camera. He turns to
Batman with a look of shock on his face.

LUCIUS FOX
What in gods name do you think youre
doing dressed like that?

BATMAN
Im helping people.

LUCIUS FOX
And I guess that device you wanted the
other week was for this too? The sonic
transmitter?

Batman pulls a sonic baterang from his utility belt. He shows
Lucius who seems impressed.

BATMAN
Callie implemented it into the baterang.
It helps me hear conversations.

LUCIUS FOX
(Sighs)
What does Nigma have to do with anything?

BATMAN
He kidnapped Vicki Vale, the reporter that
was snooping around here earlier. Says that
if I dont bring him the second drive, hes
going to cut off a finger or two. I have
until midnight.

LUCIUS FOX
This is too much, Bruce. First you drop
the Batman bomb and then you tell me that
the guy you fired wants a nuclear guidance
drive. This is - fantastic.

BATMAN
I need it, Lucius.

LUCIUS FOX
Its not here, Bruce. Its in a vault in
the bank, box thirty four on row three.
the code is 9280, your birthday.
27.

BATMAN
Thanks, Lucius.

LUCIUS FOX
You cant go there now, its closed.

BATMAN
Theres always a way.

LUCIUS FOX
The cops will be after you.

BATMAN
They wont even know its gone. Im going
to get it, take it to Nigma and then Im
going to put it back. If I can figure out
his riddle.

LUCIUS FOX
And whats his riddle?

BATMAN
What is big, round and used for mining,
where all workers clock their timing?

LUCIUS FOX
Ill get back to you.

BATMAN
Just call Alfred, hell patch you through
if you can figure it out.

LUCIUS FOX
Bruce. Why are you doing this?

BATMAN
Gotham has been crying out for help since
Joker killed my parents. Im just doing my
part.

Batman leaves. Lucius nods in approval.

FADE TO:

INT. THE BATCAVE -- NIGHT

28.

Alfred is fitting the batmobile tank with an engine. Being
lowered in by Callie who is controlling the crane.

ALFRED
A little to the left.

Engine is pushed to the left by the crane.

ALFRED (CONTD)
Now lower it.

Callie lowers the engine into place. Alfred uses a spanner to
tighten the bolts.

BATMAN (O.S.)
Callie, Alfred. I need your help.

CALLIE (O.S.)
What is it, Bruce?

BATMAN (O.S.)
What is big, round and used for mining,
where all workers clock their timing?

ALFRED
Its hardly the time for riddles, sir.

BATMAN (O.S.)
I need to know, Alfred.

CALLIE (O.S.)
My databanks arent equipped to deal
with riddles, Bruce. I do not know.

EXT. GOTHAM BANK -- CONTINUOUS

Batman pulls up across the street from the bank. A car drives
past, but doesnt see him.

BATMAN
Theres always an answer.

ALFRED (O.S.)
If you dont mind me asking, where are
you sir?

29.

BATMAN
Outside Gotham Bank.

ALFRED (O.S.)
What are you doing there?

BATMAN
I have to make a withdrawal.

CALLIE (O.S.)
Signs detect that youre about to steal
something, were not the villains, Bruce.

BATMAN
We have to try, Callie. If I dont get
this drive, hell kill her. Im not
gonna let that happen, even if shes a
pest.

Something tugs on Batmans cape. He looks down and sees a kid
standing there with a SURPRISED look on his face. Smiling
from ear to ear.

YOUNG KID
Youre the Batman!

BATMAN
Yes, I am.

YOUNG KID
I think youre brilliant.

The kid runs up the steps into his house. Batman smiles.

ALFRED (O.S.)
Are you still there?

BATMAN
Im here. If you can figure out the riddle
let me know, oh, and expect a call from
Lucius.

Batman cuts off the call. He steps off the bike and crosses
the street. He sees that the bank is closed.

Batman walks around the side of the bank.
30.

Batman walks back, he presses the button on his wrist and the
Batcycle drives off into the alleyway and out of sight.

EXT. ALLEYWAY -- CONTINUOUS

Batman looks up, he sees the roof and pulls the batclaw out.
He shoots up, the claw hooks onto a girder and he presses the
YELLOW BUTTON on the handle, allowing himself to be hoisted
upwards.

INT. BANK -- CONTINUOUS

OFF SCREEN: Smash!

Batman breaks through the window, but doesnt set off an
alarm. He uses his EYE SLITS which turn blue, allowing him to
scan the area for hostiles. Theres only two guards, armed
with tasers on the first floor. Hes on the third floor.

INT. FIRST FLOOR CORRIDOR -- CONTINUOUS

Batman sneaks past the guards window. DOOR OPENS. Guard
steps out. He sees Batman, he pulls out his taser and shoots.
The barb hits Batmans silver bat symbol on his chest, Batman
grabs the barb and throws it at the guard who falls to the
ground in a slump.

GUARD #2 steps out of the room in a hurry, he pulls out his
taser. Batman sends a baterang which hits him in the head,
knocking the guard to the ground.

Batman drags the two guards into a janitors closet and
closes the door.

INT. BANK VAULT -- CONTINUOUS

Batman enters the vault area, but the vault door is locked
shut.

He pulls out a device from his utility belt, he opens it up,
revealing a decoder (Arkham Asylum). He kneels down next to
the vault door and uses the decoder to find the vault
combination. He eventually does and the door opens.

Batman walks to row three, he finds box thirty-four and he
enters the code 9280. The box opens.
31.

Batman takes the nuclear guidance drive from the container
and looks at it. It says Wayne Tech: 338219 guidance drive
on the side. He then closes the box and leaves the vault.

CUT TO:

EXT. ALLEYWAY -- MOMENTS LATER

Batman gets onto his Batcycle and drives out of the alleyway,
a HUGE TRUCK passes him and almost hits him. Batman sighs
with relief and drives off.

The WOMAN IN PINK is standing on the corner, she watches as
Batman drives around the corner. She scowls and turns away.

EXT. HIGHWAY -- CONTINUOUS

Batman drives down the highway towards Wayne Tower which is
in the distance.

He presses the button on his handlebars and the monitor on
the bike turns on.

CALLIE (O.S.)
Where have you been? Weve been trying
to contact you.

BATMAN
Whats wrong, Callie?

CALLIE (O.S.)
You tripped the silent alarm when you
entered the bank, the local police saw
you on camera. Theyre coming after you.

BATMAN
I got away.

CALLIE (O.S.)
Look up.

Batman looks up. A SPOTLIGHT HITS HIM from a helicopter
overhead. He continues driving, weaving in and out of
traffic.

Batman sees a blockade ahead, he cant get through it.
32.

CO-PILOT (O.S.)
Stop the bike or we will be forced to
take action! Pull it over, now!

BATMAN
Any ideas, Callie?

CALLIE (O.S.)
Press the red button.

Batman sees the red button on the right handle. He presses
it. The bike BLASTS FORWARD as nitrous shoots from its
exhaust pipe. He hurtles forward towards the blockade.

BATMAN
A little help, Callie!

CALLIE (O.S.)
Performing evasive manoeuvres.

The bike shoots out two CYLINDERS from either side and JUMPS
THE BIKE OVER THE BLOCKADE like its flying. It lands on the
other side much to the amazement of two cops who look at one
another with shock on their faces.

CALLIE (O.S.) (CONTD)
Take the off-ramp.

BATMAN
Warn me next time youre about to do
something like that!

CALLIE (O.S.)
You asked for help, I just provided.

Batman takes the off-ramp and heads down the street. The
helicopter continues chasing him as he approaches a farm.

BATMAN
That choppers still on me!

CALLIE (O.S.)
I can send out an EMP but we have to
make sure they wont be harmed. Try to
bait them to follow you, theres a river
a quarter mile up the road.
33.

BATMAN
A river?

CALLIE (O.S.)
The EMP will cause the helicopters blades
to stop, they shouldnt be injured if you
get them to the river.

BATMAN
Got it!

EXT. BRIDGE -- CONTINUOUS

Batman drives over the bridge. The helicopter is just above
him. He turns right off the bridge and heads for the river.

EXT. ROAD -- CONTINUOUS

Batman continues driving, the helicopter is gaining on him.
He sees a car hauler truck sitting near the river bank, he
floors it towards the truck and drives up the back of the
truck and FLIES OVER THE RIVER.

BATMAN
Now Callie!

The exhaust on Batmans bike sends out an electronic charge
which hits the helicopter and scrambles its power. The
helicopter blades stop, and the chopper descends quickly,
hitting the river and causing a huge splash.

Batman drives a little until hes back on the road. He
watches on as the helicopter sinks, but the co-pilot and
pilot begin to crawl out of the water, unharmed.

Batman drives off.

The trucker runs over to the two chopper pilots.

TRUCKER
Holy hell that was nuts. You guys all
right? That was a hell of a fall.

PILOT
(Coughs up water)
Do you have a phone?
34.

Trucker hands the pilot a phone. Pilot dials a number.

VOICE (O.S.)
Yes?

PILOT
This is Marsden, Batman got away.

TRUCKER
(Silently)
Batman?

CUT TO:

EXT. OUTSKIRTS OF GOTHAM -- LATER

Batman drives into a small parking lot, theres no cars
around.

A call comes in, he answers and Alfred is seen on the
monitor.

ALFRED (O.S.)
Are you okay, sir?

BATMAN
Im fine, Alfred. But I think the Gotham
Police Department wont appreciate me
drowning one of their helicopters.

ALFRED (O.S.)
Im sure theyll be alright with it.
And if not, we could always write them
a cheque.

BATMAN
Any luck at solving the riddle?

ALFRED (O.S.)
None, sir.

CALLIE (O.S.)
Since the kidnapper didnt contact you
directly from his hideout, were unable
to establish the whereabouts of him and
Vicki.
35.

Batman looks over to a billboard, it shows a man wearing a
hard hat and putting his left thumb up. It shows the quarry.

BATMAN
Quarry.

CALLIE (O.S.)
What was that?

BATMAN
Callie, I need a route to the quarry.

ALFRED (O.S.)
Why would you want to go there?

BATMAN
The riddle, it said: What is big, round
and used for mining, where all workers clock
their timing?

ALFRED (O.S.)
Of course, the quarry is used for mining
coal and resources. Why didnt we think
of that before?

CALLIE (O.S.)
According to the map, the quarry is twenty
two point three miles west of your current
location. It should take you twenty
three minutes to get there.

Batman looks at the clock on the monitor. It says 11:30PM.

BATMAN
Okay, wed better be right.

Batman skids the bike around and hurtles forward down the
road.

FADE TO:

INT. ABANDONED BUILDING -- NIGHT

Riddler is standing at the window, looking out over the
quarry. He glances at his watch a tuts.

36.

He turns to Vicki.

THE RIDDLER
Where oh where is your knight?

VICKI VALE
How many times do I have to tell you?
Hes nothing to do with me. I just wanted
to ask him some questions about Batman.

THE RIDDLER
Batman? Batman you say?! Why would Bruce
Wayne know anything about - hmm.
(Beat)
Riddle me this, riddle me that: Who is
the great black bat?

Riddler walks over to Vicki and takes her blindfold off. She
looks at him, she seems sick.

VICKI VALE
You, you were in Bruces office.

THE RIDDLER
Me? No! That was my other self, you see
when the Batman made a name for himself
I thought Gee, wouldnt it be grand to
create an alternative version of myself?
I could be a crime fighter, a hero! But
that my dear, didnt happen. Instead I
got fired for trying to find a new way
of giving people power, something that
would never fail or cause blackouts. But
that wasnt good enough for Wayne Enterprises.
NO IT WAS NOT! And then a light bulb came
on in my head.

VICKI VALE
What do you mean?

Riddler sits on her lap.

THE RIDDLER
Do you really want to know?

Vicki nods.
37.

Riddler cant see that shes using a pin to scratch away the
rope ties on her arms.

Riddler thinks.

FLASHBACK:

INT. EDWARDS APARTMENT -- EARLIER TODAY

Edward walks into his apartment and throws his coat on the
counter. Theres a book of riddles on his desk, and one of
those carnival YES OR NO machines with a clown inside.

THE RIDDLER (V.O.)
You see, when I went home after getting
fired I found myself in a place that I
could not escape from. A place that in
truth, was one of my worst nightmares. My
dream, shattered by one man.

Edward sits at his desk. He reads the newspaper. He sees the
headline WHO IS BATMAN? with an exclusive from Vicki Vale
from the 19 September 2011. He throws the paper across the
room and looks at a sewing machine.

THE RIDDLER (V.O.)
As the day rolled on I thought to myself.
It would be nice to be looked upon as a
hero for once. Then it came to me, like
a lightning bolt. I started creating my
own persona, something that could make
people think.

Riddler sews the outfit, he then grabs a piece of fabric and
stitches a QUESTION MARK onto it. He continues sewing.

FADE TO:

Riddler leaps in front of a mirror. He looks at himself, but
somethings missing. A HAT.

Riddler grabs a green hat from the table and puts it on, he
then stands in front of the mirror again. And smiles.

THE RIDDLER (V.O.)
I then wondered about a name.
38.

Riddler looks at the book of riddles on the table.

THE RIDDLER (V.O.)
The Riddler! Yes, a man who could make you
think. Someone who knew all the answers
and just created the questions. Then you
came into my mind. The girl of the man who
fired me. I thought it would be nice to meet
you again. So I went to your apartment.

END OF FLASHBACK.

INT. ABANDONED BUILDING -- PRESENT

Riddler looks at Vicki, who scowls.

THE RIDDLER
And here you are.

VICKI VALE
So thats it huh? The Riddler?

THE RIDDLER
Please, call me Riddler. The sounds so
informal.

Riddler stands up, he walks to the monitors.

THE RIDDLER (CONTD)
Any minute now, your knight in shining
armour will come through those gates to
rescue you. But thats not going to happen
because the kicker here is - he wont figure
out my riddle.

VICKI VALE
What riddle?

THE RIDDLER
Cant say. But if he doesnt figure it
out.
(Pulls out knife)
Then that pretty little finger of yours
will be mailed to Wayne Manor.

Vickis eyes open widely, scared.
39.

THE RIDDLER (CONTD)
A shame really, I never wanted it to come
to this. I wanted to be a hero, but I guess
things change and so do plans.
(Laughs)
Funny how things play out huh?

Vicki breaks free! She runs towards Riddler and shoulder
barges him, he flies back into the counter and a monitor
falls down, hitting him on the leg.

EXT. QUARRY -- CONTINUOUS

Vicki barges out of the door, falling into the mud. She runs
a little and falls again. She takes her shoes off and
continues running for the gate on the far side.

She reaches the gate, tries to squeeze through but cant. She
turns around, Riddler is standing there, he covers her mouth
in a chloroformed cloth and she falls unconscious to the
ground.

THE RIDDLER (CONTD)
I really wish you hadnt done that.

Riddler takes the necklace from around her neck and places it
into an envelope. He then laughs and turns around- WHACK!
Batman is standing there, he hits him in the face and Riddler
stumbles backwards into the fence.

Batman looks at Vicki on the ground.

BATMAN
What have you done to her?

THE RIDDLER
Why are you here?

BATMAN
Speak!

THE RIDDLER
You know, you really should be careful.
You should have checked your surroundings
before you came.

40.

Batman looks around, he doesnt see anyone. He then turns
back to Riddler who has disappeared.

THE RIDDLER (CONTD)
Riddle me this, riddle me that!

Riddler emerges from the shadows with a 2x4 piece of wood, he
whacks Batman over the back with it and kicks him in the
face.

THE RIDDLER (CONTD)
How blind are you, bat?

Batman crawls along the ground. Riddler whacks him over the
back, cracking the wood in two. He throws the broken wood to
the ground and grabs Batman in a rear neck choke hold. He
starts squeezing. Batman grabs at Riddlers hands, but cant
pry them open.

THE RIDDLER (CONTD)
What is the greatest riddle of all?

BATMAN
Go to hell!

Batman moves down quickly, forcing Riddler to flip over him
onto his back. Riddler punches Batman in the face.

THE RIDDLER
That really hurt!

Riddler kicks Batman in the stomach, and does it again
afterwards. He walks over to the digger, and gets into it. He
starts the ignition and turns the digger to face Batman, he
scoops Batman up and Riddler drives towards a crusher in the
short distance.

THE RIDDLER (CONTD)
Enjoying the ride?

Batman pulls himself up, he sees the crusher in the short
distance. Riddler closes the scoop, Batman is trapped.

Riddler stops the digger and runs over to the crusher, he
starts it up. He then climbs back into the digger and puts
the scoop over the crusher.
41.

THE RIDDLER (CONTD)
Night, night Batman!

Riddler tips the scoop. Batman falls towards the crusher when
all of a sudden he SHOOTS THE GRAPPLE HOOK ONTO THE GIRDER OF
THE CRANE and comes within an INCH OF BEING CRUSHED. He
swings off the hook and to safety.

Riddler GRUNTS! He runs towards Batman, Batman dodges the
wild left arm and grabs Riddler, he then runs Riddler forward
and causes Riddlers face to hit the metal of the crusher.

Riddler breaks the hold, he punches Batman two times in the
face and then kicks him in the stomach. Batman falls to one
knee, Riddler pulls out a knife, he slashes at Batman who
dodges the blade and Batman UPPERCUTS Riddler in the JAW
forcing Riddler off the ground.

Riddler hits the dirt with a thud. Hes still conscious.

Batman staggers backward, eyes rolling. Riddler gets back to
his feet pathetically.

THE RIDDLER (CONTD)
Youre not much fun, are you?

Batman takes the BATROD from the sheath, it lights up before
Riddlers eyes. Riddler smiles. Batman pushes the batrod into
Riddlers chest. But Riddler moves out of the way.

Batman turns, Riddler punches him in the face and the BATROD
flies from Batmans hand to the ground.

Riddler kicks Batman in the face, then walks to him, stepping
over the fallen Batman who is crawling on the ground.

THE RIDDLER (CONTD)
Now to see whos behind the mask!

Riddler grabs Batmans mask. He tries to take it off and-

VICKI VALE (O.S.)
Hey!

Riddler turns around. Vicki WHACKS HIM in the side of the
head with the BATROD. Shocking him.
42.

Riddler shakes rapidly before falling to the ground next to
Batman. Riddler is unconscious.

Batman stands up. Vicki is holding the BATROD and staring at
him. He staggers back into the digger, hes hurt.

VICKI VALE
Are you hurt?

BATMAN
Im fine.

Batman holds out his hand.

VICKI VALE
Oh, right. This is yours.

Vicki hands Batman the BATROD and smiles.

Batman turns the electronic charge off and sheathes it. He
gently kicks Riddler, who isnt moving.

VICKI VALE (CONTD)
Did I kill him?

BATMAN
No.

VICKI VALE
Thats a shame.

BATMAN
If you killed him, would you be any
better than him?

VICKI VALE
No. Probably not.

Batman turns away from her when she grabs his arm.

VICKI VALE (CONTD)
Thank you.

BATMAN
(Nods)
Youre welcome.
43.

Batman walks away, leaving Vicki alone. She takes Riddlers
cell phone from his pocket and dials 911.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. THE BATCAVE -- 3 DAYS LATER

Bruce looks upon the Batsuit, now safely in the cylinder.

The Batmobile is nowhere to be seen. The news is on, and
Vicki Vale is reporting on the news of Riddler being taken to
Arkham Asylum to be evaluated by Jonathan Crane.

VICKI VALE (O.S.)
(Finsihing sentence)
...and the man, Edward Nigma, who calls
himself The Riddler has been taken to
Arkham Asylum to undergo a mental evaluation
by Doctor Jonathan Crane, who recently took
over from Mitchell Tanner as head of the
asylum.

TV switches back to the news room.

DAVID THOMPSON (O.S.)
Thank you Vicki. In recent news, the Gotham
City Police Department has put out an APB on
the masked vigilante Batman, after a nuclear
guidance drive was stolen from Gotham Bank.
The police commissioner has said theyre
doing everything they can to find the Batman
and recover the drive that he stole. They
have asked that if anyone sees him, to call
the police immediately.

Alfred steps out of the shadows with a smile on his face.

ALFRED
Its ready sir.

BRUCE WAYNE
You finished it?

ALFRED
Just put on the final coat now, sir.

44.

Bruce follows Alfred, the garage door opens. Revealing THE
BATMOBILE. Full, complete and a MIX WITH THE MODERN AND
CLASSIC VERSION.

BRUCE WAYNE
This will work.

ALFRED
Well, with the police now looking for
you, youll need much more protection
than that bike of yours. At least now
you dont need to use your back to dodge
bullets.

Bruce smiles.

CALLIE (O.S.)
I recommend a test drive.

BRUCE WAYNE
Sounds good to me.

CUT TO:

EXT. WATERFALL -- NIGHT

The BATMOBILE comes HURTLING THROUGH THE WATERFALL at
breakneck speed and SHOOTS DOWN THE HIGHWAY TOWARDS GOTHAM
CITY.

FADE TO BLACK:

RUN CREDITS