By Travers and Kenyon
(this script is about as copyrighted as it can get
with Star Wars still belonging to George Lucas)
Scene 001 EXT. SPACE — TITLE CARD
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…
A vast sea
of stars serves as the backdrop for the main title, followed by a roll-up,
which crawls into infinity.
EPISODE I: THE PHANTOM MENACE
For hundreds of years, the GALACTIC REPUBLIC has
grown. While this has led to a time of peace, it has also put an increasing
stranglehold on free enterprise and bankrupted many businesses.
The newly formed TRADE FEDERATION, representing aggrieved
business owners, has fought back, gaining political control in seven systems.
The Federation Fleet has now begun advancing on mid-rim systems, starting with
the small planet of Naboo.
Disturbed by this action, the Jedi Council, the guardian of peace and justice in the
galaxy, has dispatched two Jedi
Knights to attempt to settle the problem before it escalates into galactic war.
PAN DOWN to reveal a small space cruiser heading TOWARD CAMERA at great speed. PAN with the cruiser as it heads toward the docking bay on the beautiful green planet of Naboo.
Scene 002
Two Jedi Knights, QUI-GON JINN and OBI-WAN KENOBI sit in the cockpit of the cruiser around a table. QUI-GON, sixty years old, has very long hair in a ponytail. He is tall and striking, with blue eyes. OBI-WAN is twenty-eight, with very short brown hair, pale skin, and blue eyes.
They are in a holographic conference with SENATOR PALPATINE, representative of Naboo.
PALPATINE
I must assure you, I really don’t believe your presence is required in this situation, Master Qui-Gon. The situation has clearly escalated past the point where two Jedi can deal with it. The matter is in the hands of the Senate now.
QUI-GON
With all due respect, Senator Palpatine, that is for the Jedi Council to decide. And they believe negotiations may still bear fruit without coming to open hostilities. We all want to avoid war after all.
PALPATINE
(ingratiatingly)
Of course we do, of course. But those are my constituents down there… I do expect you to keep yourselves in check.
OBI-WAN
(somewhat angered)
You know quite well that Jedi Knights would never—
QUI-GON
What my young Padawan is trying to say, Senator, is we will avoid hostilities if at all possible.
PALPATINE
I am sure you will do your best. Pray, give my regards to the queen. You will be meeting with her, I assume.
QUI-GON
Immediately upon landing.
PALPATINE
Very well. Coruscant out.
The hologram fades out. Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon exchange glances.
Scene 003 EXT. NABOO LANDING PAD - DAY
The Star Cruiser lands. The Jedi exit. They are met by a diplomatic entourage, headed by PADME AMIDALA, young intern to the QUEEN OF NABOO. She is about 17 years old, with long auburn hair braided simply.
PADME
(smiles)
Welcome to Naboo. I’m the Queen’s assistant, Padme Amidala.
The two Jedi bow. She starts to lead them inside..
OBI-WAN
(aside to Qui-Gon)
Awfully young assistant.
QUI-GON
Jedi start at a young age, too, Obi-Wan.
(to Padme)
We understand you’re having a bit of a dispute.
PADME
(grimaces slightly)
The Queen doesn’t seem to think it so very volatile.
OBI-WAN
But?
PADME
It’s not my place…
QUI-GON
(raises an eyebrow)
I would like to know your opinion.
PADME
Well, I just get this feeling… as if someone, somewhere, WANTED this war to happen…
Scene 004 INT. REBELLION HQ – NABOO – DAY
COUNT DOOKU’S holographic head is transmitting to the assembled leaders, ACKBAR (a Mon Calamari), GENERAL ANTILLES, and MELDORN VELDAR (a Neimodian), viceroy of the trade federation.
So, here we sit but still no word from the Republic. You said this show of force would get them to the table.
DOOKU
Patience, General Antilles, patience… the Republic is… difficult… to deal with.
Meldorn
That is not what you said before. The funding of the anonymous benefactor you represent has helped us gain the support of several mid-rim systems, but the Republic isn’t talking.
DOOKU
Come come, things change… we all know that. I do hope your resolve is not fading.
Ackbar
This wasn’t supposed to escalate into all-out war.
DOOKU
Of course not… but I did say to be prepared. After all, Ackbar… you know firsthand what the Republic is capable of. Surely you haven’t forgotten the exploitation of your world.
ackbar
(Ackbar grimaces and blinks his bulbous eyes.)
Some do say that those were rogue agents…
DOOKU
Regardless, the Republic hasn’t done much to rectify the situation. And that is why I have called. The Republic is taking the offensive again.
What do you mean?
DOOKU
Two Jedi Knights are at this very moment landing only miles from your base.
Meldorn
Jedi Knights?! Here?
(flustered)
We’ll have to figure this out— Give them reassurances and—
DOOKU
There is only one thing that can be done. They must be removed from the picture.
Ackbar
We will not commit murder!
DOOKU
No, of course not… but that is what they have come to do to you. These are not normal Jedi… these are assassins. I know, your benefactor was in the Senate when it was discussed. Think it over, my friends… or are your ideals not even worth fighting for?
Dooku’s head flickers and fades. The three leaders look at each other, concerned and uneasy.
Scene 005
Padme and her accompanying guards lead the Jedi into the royal conference room. The Queen sits at the head of the table. By her sides are her SUPREME ADVISOR and the CAPTAIN OF THE GUARD. Several other ATTENDANTS and GUARDS stand near the Queen.
PADME
May I present Masters Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi.
The Jedi bow gracefully.
QUEEN
I am honored to meet you, though your presence may not be necessary.
qui-gon
Senator Palpatine seemed quite sure that this government was in imminent danger of attack.
obi-wan
He thinks we are an insufficient force.
captain
Hard to blame him, what with these rebels practically standing on our doorstep. Seven systems have gone down without a fight… and we don’t have the forces to put up one of our own.
obi-wan
Have they made any overt threats?
supreme advisor
Not as yet. It seems Naboo is just another bargaining chip in their dispute with the Republic.
Qui-gon
It is our task to ascertain the true nature of the threat. I—
Qui-Gon stops and leaps from his chair. Obi-Wan follows suit. Both Jedi’s lightsabers flare online and not a moment too soon. A large force of Trade Federation troops have entered the building led by General Antilles.
No one move!
(to his men, hands in the air)
Hold fire.
queen
What is the meaning of this!?
captain
Stand down,
This is a defensive move. We require only the Jedi.
Captain
Like hell!
The Captain signals his men, who open fire and then all hell breaks loose. The Jedi position themselves in front of the Queen and her entourage as they dive under the large table. The Trade Federation troops find cover and return fire. The Jedi deflect the blaster salvos.
qui-gon
Your highness! Get out of here!
The Queen, Padme, her entourage, and a few guards make a mad dash towards the exit, their flight covered by the Jedi. Through the windows, more rebels can be seen invading. Several Naboo guards meet their maker in the crossfire.
Obi-wan
(deflecting blaster bolts)
Master, mightn’t this be a good time to retreat?
Qui-gon
(also deflecting)
That is an excellent suggestion, my young padawan.
Qui-Gon whips out some Force mojo and tosses the
conference table at
Scene 006
The Queen and her entourage race inside, followed closely by the Jedi. In hot pursuit are several rebels.
The running firefight continues as the Jedi cover the retreat into their starcruiser. The rebels fire at them, but the ship lifts off and blasts into space.
Scene 007 INT. JEDI STARCRUISER – DAY
Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon are in command of the ship, the Queen and Padme standing behind them.
Obi-wan
That was close.
qui-gon
We’re not quite out of it yet.
Scene 008 EXT. NABOO AIR SPACE – DAY – SPACE
Several Trade Federation fighters break formation in front of the Jedi ship, unleashing a salvo of missiles and blaster fire. The Jedi craft takes evasive action, diving back towards the planet. One missile detonates on a geostationary satellite. The fighters bank and come around for another pass. Their laser fire begins to penetrate the starcruiser’s shielding.
Obi-Wan takes the ship into a low orbit, skimming the atmosphere. The front of the craft begins to superheat.
Scene 009 INT. JEDI STARCRUISER – DAY – SPACE
qui-gon
Obi-Wan… the heat shields are wearing out. What are you trying to accomplish?
obi-wan
Just trust me, master.
Scene 010 EXT. NABOO AIRSPACE – DAY – SPACE
The missiles streak in behind the starcruiser, but they too superheat in the atmosphere and detonate. The starcruiser pulls up, a fire trail sizzling behind. Smoke issues from its sublight engines.
The Trade Federation fighters continue the pursuit, launching one last missile.
Scene 011 INT. JEDI STARCRUISER – DAY – SPACE
obi-wan
(watching the missile’s trajectory on the monitor)
We have a problem…
qui-gon
The computer hasn’t calculated the hyperspeed jump yet!
obi-wan
Master!
The missile’s trajectory is closer, the console’s alarm sensor beeping wildly.
Padme
Jettison the cargo bay!
Obi-wan
Of course!
(he leaps to his feet and activates a valve handle near his station)
Scene 012 EXT. NABOO AIRSPACE – DAY – SPACE
The spare parts jettison and the missile is pulled off course, detonating behind them. The Trade Federation fighters shoot off a few more blaster shots, but are too late. The starcruiser jumps into hyperspace.
Scene 013 INT. GALACTIC SENATE – DAY
Inside the gigantic, spherical Senate chambers, representatives from thousands of worlds are gathered. Palpatine’s booth floats in the center of the massive room. A general cacophony is sounding in the room as thousands argue. CHANCELLOR VALORUM stands in a booth near Palpatine’s, banging a gavel.
Valorum
Order! We shall have order!
He is unable to quiet the mob.
palpatine
(his hands in the air)
(loudly)
Friends, friends!
Heads turn to Palpatine, his powerful charisma drawing their attention.
valorum
(relieved)
Thank you.
palpatine
(normal voice now)
My friends… great troubles beset us! I have just received word that our very own Jedi have been attacked at the trade hub on Naboo! But this insignificant uprising should not cause us to fall to the level of beasts, bickering amongst ourselves like children. No… the situation calls for far more drastic action. Now is the time to rekindle our military might.
The Senate erupts into heated argument again. Valorum bangs his gavel, but to no effect. SENATOR GARM BEL IBLIS of Corellia floats forward.
BEl Iblis
The Republic has not seen war in years! Are you suggesting creating an army from scratch to battle this insurrection?
palpatine
Perhaps you overestimate their chances, senator. It has been some time, but… I am prepared to come out of military retirement.
(grandstanding)
I move that we recruit a new army for the defense of the Republic!
SENATOR TARKIN of Coruscant raises his hands.
Tarkin
I second that motion. Cheers for General Palpatine!
The Senators begin to applaud. Palpatine nods and smiles at Tarkin and the two briefly exchange a glance. A smile crosses Palpatine’s face.
Scene 014 EXT. EMPTY SPACE – NIGHT - SPACE
The Jedi Starcruiser falls out of hyperspace, smoke trails issuing from multiple ventral ports. In the near distance can be seen the tan orb of Tatooine.
Scene 015 INT. JEDI STARCRUISER – NIGHT – SPACE
Obi-Wan emerges into the cockpit from the maintenance shaft, wiping grease from his fingers with a rag. Qui-Gon, in the pilot’s seat, turns to face him.
Qui-Gon
Well?
Obi-wan
(shakes his head)
It’s no good, the hyperdrive motivators are fried. And I believe we’re venting atmosphere.
queen
(to Qui-Gon)
Well, fix it! I am not enjoying this little escapade, master Jedi!
Qui-gon
Dear lady… we are not currently capable of repairing the hyperdrive. Unfortunately… we jettisoned our spare parts.
(he casts a glance at Obi-Wan and Padme)
obi-wan
Master…
padme
Of all the—
Qui-Gon
Which, fortunately, saved all our lives.
(pause, he turns to Obi-Wan)
Now, we have a task before us. We need to reach Coruscant. Any ideas, Obi-Wan?
Obi-Wan scratches his chin as Padme moves to the window.
Obi-Wan
Well, master, our long-range communications have unfortunately also been disabled. We have approximately 12 hours of breathable oxygen and no working hyperdrive nor means of repair.
padme
(pointing at the distant Tatooine)
What about a stop-over?
Qui-Gon
(following her line of sight)
A most excellent suggestion.
obi-wan
(activating the nav computer)
Records indicate that is Tatooine, master. Small, out of the way, poor… the Trade Federation hasn’t bothered with it.
queen
(huffily)
And why is that?
qui-Gon
(smiling jovially)
Because the Hutts control it.
Supreme advisor
I must protest entering the presence of such vile gangsters as the Hutts. Why the very idea!
Obi-wan
(dryly)
If you’d rather we just let you off here…
The Supreme Advisor scowls, but sits without protest.
obi-wan
(to Qui-Gon)
I do hope this is a good idea, master.
qui-gon
As you just said, my young padawan… we don’t have much choice.
Scene 016 EXT. APPROACH TO TATOOINE – NIGHT TO DAY
The Jedi Starcruiser flies toward the desert planet, air and smoke leaking from the hull. It is not in good shape. As the ship hits the planet’s atmosphere, the starboard engine bursts into flames.
Scene 017 EXT. TATOOINE – DAWN
The sun is rising over a small village built of mud bricks. All is quiet in the mid-morning hours as one of Tatooine’s suns begins to peak over the horizon. In a small yard behind one of the hovels is a boy, ANAKIN SKYWALKER. He is about 17 years old, wearing a dirty sand-streaked tunic. His hands are covered in engine grease from a machine he is working on. It is a pod racer.
He looks up towards the sky and spots the Jedi Starcruiser, coming in out of control. He quickly covers the pod racer, grabs his jacket hanging on the nearby fence, and leaps over, causing quite a racket. He takes off toward the ship.
The door to the hovel opens. SHIMIA SKYWALKER emerges quickly.
SHIMIA
(calling after him)
Anakin! Where are you going? Watto wants you in an hour!
anakin
(calling back, but not stopping)
I’ll be back by then, Mom!
Scene 018
The Jedi Starcruiser is coming in out of control. Both the starboard and port engines have cut out, both of them on fire.
Scene 019 INT. JEDI STARCRUISER – DAWN
Obi-Wan is wrestling desperately with the controls, trying to pull the ship out of its descent. Qui-Gon is activating numerous systems, but to no effect.
obi-wan
It’s no good, master. I can’t pull her up!
qui-gon
There is one last thing we can try.
He holds out his hand, stretching out with the Force. The ship begins to shudder, straining against his attempts to turn it from its present course. Qui-Gon’s face contorts with the effort.
Scene 020
Anakin races toward the Jedi Starcruiser, which is now not very high up, nor very far away. He watches as the ship begins to shake violently, resisting Qui-Gon’s might.
Anakin pauses and looks up at the ship. He gives a sigh… and stretches out his hand. He closes his eyes.
Scene 021 INT. JEDI STARCRUISER – DAWN
The ship begins to shake less violently as its wings catch the air. The warning lights cease their flashing.
Obi-wan
Master! She’s leveling out! You did it!
Qui-gon
(opening his eyes)
(softly)
I’m not sure it was all my doing. There was something else… a power like I have never felt…
obi-wan
Master?
qui-gon
(shakes his head wearily)
Nothing, my young padawan. Good work.
Scene 022
The Jedi Starcruiser hits the sand hard and skids to a halt, but its hull is undamaged. It comes to a standstill on its side not far from Anakin, who approaches slowly.
The ship’s hatch opens and the two Jedi exit, their lightsabers at the ready, though not ignited. The other passengers on board also begin to exit, climbing out of the vertical exit hatch.
Anakin reaches them, a look of awe on his face.
anakin
You’re Jedi!
qui-gon
(nods)
Greetings, I am Qui-Gon Jinn and this is my apprentice, Obi-Wan Kenobi. It would seem our ship needs some repairs.
anakin
(lop-sided grin)
From what I saw, it may need more than that. I think you must have ionized the entire system during re-entry.
obi-wan
(nods to Qui-Gon)
He’s good.
qui-gon
(studying the boy intently)
(in a low voice)
Perhaps in more ways than one…
anakin
(approaches the ship, begins examining one of the engines)
(eagerly)
It’s burned out all right, but we should have some parts at Watto’s. I could—
He pauses as Padme climbs out of the hatch. She is somewhat disheveled from the crash, but Anakin is transfixed.
padme
The Queen isn’t very happy about—
(she notices Anakin)
Oh. Hello.
Anakin grins a bit stupidly and waves a hand at her.
qui-gon
Ah, miss Padme, meet our new friend, um…
anakin
(finds his voice)
Anakin. Anakin Skywalker.
Padme
(reaches the ground and bows courteously)
A pleasure to meet you, Anakin.
anakin
Padme. Is that what they call you?
padme
Yes. I have a full name that is much longer, but…
obi-wan
(impatient)
You mentioned a place we could get repairs?
Anakin
(distracted)
What?
(turns back to Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon)
Oh, Watto’s shop. Yeah, I can take you there.
qui-gon
Excellent.
He turns to the ship, where the Queen is attempting to climb out of the ship with the help of her attendants.
qui-gon
Your highness, I would suggest you and your aides remain here. Obi-Wan and I shall enter town and take care of this.
queen
Master Jedi! I demand that you cease this disrespectful treatment! First you instigate conflict on my planet, crash us on this godforsaken rock, then expect me to just follow your recommendations!? I demand that—
qui-gon
(patiently)
Your highness, of course you may come along. But I should prepare you for the hardships of the desert. It is likely to be in excess of 120 degrees before long. Also, the Tusken Raiders, or “sand people” tend to lurk in wait of travelers. They have a rather gruesome habit of kidnapping people in order to perform all manner of atrocities upon them and—
queen
I have decided that we shall remain here.
Obi-Wan grins as Qui-Gon turns with a wink.
anakin
It’s not far, follow me.
Scene 023 EXT. MOS ESPA MARKET – MORNING
Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan enter the market led by Anakin. Their lightsabers are hidden from view, and they are bundled in their robes like hermits. The street is fairly well-populated despite the early hour. The people do not look savory.
They all pause as a group of shifty-looking aliens cross their path.
obi-wan
I have a bad feeling about this.
qui-gon
Steady, my young padawan.
They follow Anakin into a dingy shop, the entrance nearly blocked by several derelict spaceships.
Scene 024 INT. WATTO’S SHOP – MORNING
Anakin, Obi-Wan, and Qui-Gon enter the dingy junk shop and are greeted by WATTO, a pudgy blue alien who flies on short little wings like a hummingbird.
watto
Customers! Welcome to’a my shop!
(in Huttese to Anakin)
You’re late, boy!
anakin
(in Huttese)
Dock my “pay” then.
watton
(in Huttese)
Don’t take that lip with me!
(in Basic)
Lookin’ for parts, hm?
qui-gon
I believe young Mr. Skywalker may have a good idea of what we need.
watto
Well, boy?
anakin
Two Sienar sublight class S-45 engines, a Sienar Class 2 hyperdrive, and an astromech droid.
qui-gon
(to Obi-Wan)
Is he right?
Obi-Wan
Completely.
The two Jedi share an impressed look.
watto
(punching the data on a hand-held inventory computer)
Yah, yah, we got all that, I thinken, exceptin’ the droid. Best be’a checkin’ the yard, eh?
(he gestures toward the back door)
The two Jedi follow his invitation, Watto hangs back a moment with Anakin.
watto
(in Huttese)
You pullin’ some stunt, boy? Where you been runnin’ off to? You know I need you for the big race. I may have to whip your mother again.
anakin
(in Basic)
You leave her alone.
watto
(in Huttese)
Ha! Watch that temper, “Annie”, or I may have to whip you, too!
Scene 025 EXT. WATTO’S JUNKYARD – MORNING
The two Jedi look back, to see Watto and Anakin inaudibly arguing. Watto slaps Anakin across the face and then flutters out to the junkyard.
watto
So… how you be’a payin’ for all dis?
qui-gon
(cold stare)
You don’t seem to treat your employees very well.
Watto
Whaat!? Employee, ha! Boy belong ta me, I do what I want. Now, I thinken your hyperdrive parts is over here…
(he flutters off to a corner of the junkyard)
obi-wan
(to Qui-Gon)
Slavery! But that is illegal!
Qui-Gon
You forget, Obi-Wan, we aren’t in the Republic. This is
the Outer Rim, in fact, a
obi-wan
That does not make it right, master.
qui-gon
What would you suggest?
obi-wan
We are Jedi, master. Surely we can do something about it.
qui-gon
Something, indeed. But we are far from aid, and no one knows we are here. Let us recall our purpose here— get parts and go.
Obi-Wan scowls as Watto returns, followed by some JUNKYARD DROIDS carrying various engine parts.
Watto
Got’a it all right here.
Qui-Gon
But no astromech droid?
Watto
Not’a here.
Qui-Gon
Then do you know of some other supplier who—
Watto
Where you think’a you are, Coruscant? You don’t find it at Watto’s, you no find it.
Qui-Gon
Unfortunately, none of these
(gestures at the parts)
will do us much good without a droid.
Watto
Oh, I didn’t say’a I couldn’t get’a you one. The boy here, he can build it. Maybe a day or two.
Qui-Gon
Why am I not surprised?
watto
But enough small’a talk. All gonna be real’a expensive. Whatchoo payin’ with?
qui-gon
I can give you a direct transfer of Republic credits, they’ll be in your account before the transaction is complete.
watto
(laughs)
Do I be’a lookin’ like a bank? I be’a wantin’ money, not worthless credits!
qui-gon
(waves his hand)
Regardless, credits will be fine.
(with a glance at Anakin)
And the boy comes with us.
Obi-Wan raises an eyebrow.
watto
What you think’a you are, some kinda Jedi waving your hand like that?
Qui-Gon
We’re just honest customers, trying to reach an arrangement.
Watto
I’m’a thinken you’re’a robbers. Jedi robbers, trying to steal’a my property.
(nods meaningfully toward Anakin inside the store)
Obi-Wan’s hand slips near his lightsaber. Watto spots this.
watto
And I’m’a thinken that’a you is Jedi: Jabba might like that.
(he punches a button on a device attached to his wrist)
As Watto laughs, an automatic defense grid activates on the compound, and a bewildered Obi-Wan is struck from multiple sides by stun rays. A shield covers the store and yard, shimmering about thirty feet from the ground in a spherical coverage zone.
Qui-Gon leaps out of the line of fire, his lightsaber igniting in mid-air. Several of Watto’s hidden DEFENSE DROIDS rumble to life, and fly at the Jedi Knight.
Qui-Gon dispatches several, but the defense grid’s shield closes its coverage, casting the Jedi to the ground, his lightsaber clattering out of reach. The droids cover him, clapping him in irons.
Obi-Wan
This is an outrage!
watto
Whosa robbin’ who now? Hm, Jedi? Ha ha ha ha ha!
Anakin stands impotently by, breathing hard with anger, as the Jedi are taken away.
Watto
(in Huttese to Anakin)
Might as well be fixin’ that ship of theirs, eh? Be good money, har har. Take a tug with the parts, boy. And don’t get any ideas. That slave chip is still in your neck.
anakin
(touching neck hatefully)
How could I forget?
Scene 026 EXT. JEDI STARCRUISER CRASH SITE – DAY
The Queen sits at a makeshift seat in the shade provided by the starcruiser, her attendants fanning her. The Captain and his guards stand idly by, along with the Supreme Advisor. Padme leans against the hull near the hatch. The ship has been rocked into a better position, with the entrance ramp now useable.
Anakin approaches from the direction of Mos Eisley, aboard his pod racer towing a transport tug covered in parts behind him. Padme rushes out to meet him.
padme
Where are Master Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan?
anakin
(grimace)
Watto is selling them to the Hutts.
queen, captain, advisor
What?!
Padme
Oh my, what happened?
Anakin sets his jaw, and prepares to tell the story.
Scene 027 INT. JABBA THE HUTT’S PALACE – DAY
The Jedi are led in by Watto. They are bound in chains. JABBA, a massively fat Hutt, sits on his throne before them. His many minions are deployed about, though a gold-plated translator protocol droid, C-3PO, stands next to Jabba.
jabba
Ho, ho, ho.
(in Huttese)
What be these?
WATTO
(in Huttese)
Jedi invaders, master Jabba. I captured them and am’a in mind of a trade. Jedi be’a very valuable to th’ Republic, I thinken.
jabba
Ho, ho, ho.
Qui-Gon
We are not slaves to be bartered, Jabba. You’ll pay dearly for any transgressions.
jabba
Ho, ho, ho
(he speaks in Huttese)
3pO
Master Jabba believes that it will be the Republic that will pay the most for you.
Qui-gon
The Republic doesn’t make deals with gangsters and terrorists.
Jabba is angry at this and randomly swats 3PO.
watto
(in Huttese)
So, perhaps, uh, reimbursement of’a my debts for these’a Jedi?
jabba
(in Huttese)
I like you, Watto… ho, ho, ho. Not too ambitious.
(to his minions)
Clear the toydarian’s debts. And take the Jedi away!
3pO
Master Jabba, perhaps it would be wiser to not anger the Republic and—
One of Jabba’s minions blasts 3PO, sending scattered pieces about. The Jedi are man-handled by Jabba’s henchmen and led away.
Obi-wan
This just gets worse and worse…
qui-gon
(shrugs)
There’s always a way out, my young padawan.
(though he does appear concerned)
Scene 028 EXT. JEDI STARCRUISER CRASH SITE –
EVENING
Anakin is covered in engine grease, lying on his back underneath the starcruiser, Padme sits near him with a look of concern. Nearby, the Queen and her entourage are speaking.
Padme
Is that your whole life then… just working for Watto?
Anakin
Oh, I’m allowed one hobby.
Padme
That… pod racer, as you call it?
Anakin
Watto used to just let me test repaired models… to make sure they wouldn’t blow up during real races.
padme
That sounds dangerous.
anakin
It is. The last one did explode. But by then I’d nearly broken the course record… and jumped clear. That’s when Watto decided to make me the driver of his pod in the next race.
Padme
And that’s good, right?
Anakin
There’s just one catch. If I lose, he’ll beat my mother. Hard.
padme
But that’s terrible. I—
anakin
(finger to his lips, nodding toward Queen)
Listen.
The Camera pans over to the Queen and her aides as Anakin and Padme watch.
supreme advisor
I still recommend we get this ship repaired and head straight for Coruscant. The Jedi aren’t our concern… after all, they did get us into this mess.
captain
(shrugs)
He has a point, your highness. Surely the Jedi Council can mount a rescue or somesuch later.
queen
And just abandon them? I don’t know…
They continue to speak as the camera pans to Anakin and Padme.
anakin
They sure love to chat it up.
padme
They have a lot of things to discuss… and many responsibilities.
anakin
(wrenching a bolt ever tighter)
They’re talking about the coward’s way out, is what they’re doing.
padme
(distantly)
It is said wisdom comes with time…
anakin
(sits up)
What happened back there was my fault. And I’m going to fix it.
padme
Anakin…
anakin
Hammer.
She hands him one. They sit silent for a moment as Anakin pounds something underneath the ship.
padme
What are you going to do?
anakin
Watto keeps spare blaster parts in the back room. Jabba won’t expect it at all. I’ll get them out.
padme
(horrified)
You’ll be killed! And even if you do get in, Watto could just activate that slave chip in the back of your neck!
anakin
(growl)
You have a better idea?
padme
(looking at the pod racer)
When’s the next race?
anakin
Why?
padme
(smiles)
I think I do have an idea.
Scene 029 EXT. JEDI STARCRUISER CRASH SITE – NIGHT
Anakin is loading parts back onto the transport tug as Padme helps him. The Queen steps forward.
queen
(imperiously)
The ship is repaired, I trust?
anakin
(scowls at her)
The computer is still down until I can get ahold of an astromech droid.
Supreme Advisor
So when can we expect to be off?
anakin
Not tonight.
captain
Then when?
Anakin
We’re working on it.
Padme hops into the pod with Anakin and they speed off into the night.
Captain
(shakes his head)
Our fate in the hands of a kid…
Scene 030 INT. SKYWALKER HOME – NIGHT
Shimia Skywalker is sitting nervously in a dilapidated chair by the door. Two plates of uneaten food sit on the table behind her.
The door opens to admit Anakin, Padme close behind.
shimia
(jumping up)
Anakin Skywalker! Where have you been? I heard sand people and—
(notices Padme)
Oh, hello, dear. Welcome to our home…
(back to Anakin, gestures towards the back room)
Anakin?
anakin
(following)
Yes, mom.
Anakin and Shimia remove to the back room, which is a cluttered work area.
shimia
Anakin! What is this? Who is that girl?
anakin
A ship crashed in the desert, mom. I’m helping them out.
shimia
Does Watto know? If you keep getting into trouble like this…
anakin
(scowls)
I’m taking care of it, mom.
Shimia
(sighs)
I do hope so, Anakin… I don’t want what happened to your father to… happen to you.
Anakin
(hugs her)
It won’t, mom. I promise.
Scene 031 EXT. MOS ESPA MARKETPLACE – MORNING
Anakin and Padme walk down the street together, Padme obviously a bit unnerved at the unsavory characters walking about. Padme is wearing native apparel now, basically a simple tunic and skirt with desert tones.
anakin
I have to go to Watto’s shop or he might start to suspect something.
padme
And I should get that, what did you call it, main AI chip?
aNAKIN
Yes. I can build the rest of the droid from spare parts, I think.
Padme
But how do I pay for it if—
anakin
(reaches into his pocket and hands her a fistful of coins. She looks surprised)
I’ve been palming that out of Watto’s register for awhile.
Padme
But why?
Anakin
There’s this droid shop on the edge of town. It’s where Watto always goes. Here, I’ll draw you a map.
(he begins making her a map)
Scene 032 INT. DROID SHOP – MORNING
Padme walks through the swinging door into a massive pile of deactivated droid parts, covering numerous shelves. She carries a shopping bag. A lone JAWA mans the front desk, grunting something at her in his own language.
Padme browses the shelves, coming across a protocol droid’s head, C-3PO. She takes a look at it, and accidentally hits the power switch.
3po
Oh, my, what a headache. Oh, dear, I can’t see! What’s happened? Don’t shoot!
padme
Shush! Where’s the rest of your body?
3po
Oh, dear me, I’m dreadfully sorry, I forgot my manners. I am C-3PO, human-cyborg relations. I am also fluent in over 6 million forms of communication.
padme
I’m sorry, but I don’t really need a protocol droid. I’m looking for the AI chip from an R4 unit, I think.
3po
Well, in all truth, I do think the R2 series was far superior. the internal apparatus in the newer model contained a wiring box that failed to take into account the modulating levels of—
Padme switches him off, but drops the head into her bag.
Scene 033 EXT. ANAKIN’S BACKYARD – DAY
Anakin is at work on what appears to be an R2 unit. 3PO’s head is on a table nearby.
3po
No, no, the negative flow coupling goes below the fuel line.
anakin
I’m rerouting the primary power circuit to give him more juice.
3po
Very non-standard design.
Anakin rolls his eyes. Padme enters the yard from the house, wearing baggy-looking but somewhat regal attire.
Padme
I’m not sure about this plan.
anakin
It is your plan.
padme
(frowns)
But if he doesn’t buy the act…
Anakin
(snorts)
I wouldn’t worry about that.
Padme
If the Queen finds out I raided her luggage…
Anakin
(snappishly)
Will you quit worrying? This is hard enough.
Padme
Sorry.
They sit in silence as Anakin continues to work. He crawls under the R2 unit and then realizes he needs a tool out of his reach and starts to get up to get it. Then he stops, a frown on his face. He holds out his hand towards the tool, concentrating. It rises about six inches into the air before dropping back to the ground. Anakin grunts and goes to pick it up.
Padme
(staring at the tool)
How did you do that?
Anakin
(settling in to work again)
I don’t know exactly… I’ve just always had this feeling, you know, that I could do things… do things with my mind.
Padme stares at him.
Anakin
But it comes and goes. I can’t seem to focus it.
Padme
Just like a Jedi…
Anakin has finished what he was doing. He picks up the R2 unit’s head module and attaches it.
Anakin
Okay, here we go…
He activates R2-D2, who sputters to life with a flurry of beeps and whistles, his little head looking side to side. Seeing 3PO, he emits an amused twitter.
3po
Well! How improper!
Scene 034 EXT. TATOOINE RACEWAY – DAY
Three days later, an EXTREME HIGH WIDE ANGLE reveals a
vast arena in the Tatooine desert. A large semi-circular amphitheater that
holds at least a hundred thousand people dominates the landscape. Large viewing
platforms loom over the racetrack.
The Tatooine Raceway is abound with pod racers, arrayed about the track with mechanics and droids hard at work in their assembly and maintenance.
Sebulba, the favorite and pod racing champion, is waving to his fans.
Anakin walks onto the arena floor towards the assembled pod racers. Watto floats next to him.
Watto
(pulling out a device from his belt)
I’ll have to’a be removin’ the slave chip for’a the race, so’a you don’t get blown up.
(the device finds the chip in Anakin’s neck and is removed)
anakin
(rubbing his neck)
Gee, thanks, Watto.
Watto
The race is’a monitored, boy, so don’t’a be tryin’ ta run away.
(he grins)
Now, make’a Watto rich and mebbe he be nicer to your mom, huh?
Laughing to himself greedily, Watto flaps off. Anakin grunts and heads for his racer, double-checking the pod’s mechanics.
Scene 035 EXT. RACEWAY STANDS – DAY
Jabba the Hutt and his minions have high-row seats, really nice ones inside a windowed luxury booth. The two Jedi are brought to the booth and are strapped up by the windows on display. They are bound and gagged. The two lightsabers sit in a glass display case near Jabba. A new translator DROID is at Jabba’s side. Jabba turns to the Jedi.
jabba
(speaks in Huttese)
droid
The esteemed Jabba hopes you enjoy your seats.
jabba
Ho, ho, ho.
The two Jedi exchange annoyed looks, but remain helpless to do anything. Several of Jabba’s men remain discreetly behind them, blaster pistols casually pointed directly at the captives.
Unexpectedly, BIB FORTUNA, a humanlike alien with long tentacles protruding from his skull approaches Jabba.
bib
(subtitled from Huttese)
A visitor for you, Master Jabba.
Jabba looks up, as Padme enters, bedecked in fancy clothes that still don’t quite fit.
Bib
Queen Amidala, of Naboo.
Padme attempts to imperiously toss her hair, but it looks a bit silly. The two Jedi have now noticed her though, with incredulous looks on their faces.
Padme
Greetings, great one. I give you greetings.
jabba
(speaks in Huttese)
Droid
The great Jabba wishes to know what brings you to the raceway.
Padme
(now attempts to laugh haughtily, but also doesn’t quite pull it off)
Like everyone else, great Jabba, I come to wager.
Jabba is now interested, his wormy tail flops.
Padme
(blows out a small nervous breath)
I wish to wager on your two Jedi.
Jabba doesn’t take this too well, swatting both Bib and his unfortunate translator. The translator crawls to his feet.
droid
(scrambling to translate for the angry Jabba)
The wondrous Jabba would expect quite the offer to even consider such a thing.
Padme
How would 100,000 credits sound?
Apparently not too good. Jabba thrashes his tail and snarls in Huttese. But then he stops, getting a better look at Padme. He looks her up and down and licks his lips.
Droid
The illustrious Jabba finds that insulting.
Padme
(notices Jabba’s gaze. She swallows)
Very well, as a counter-offer, I am willing to bet… myself.
The two Jedi’s eyes widen as they shake their heads, but Padme ignores them.
Jabba
Ho, ho, ho.
(says something in Huttese)
Droid
The magnificent Jabba would like to know what racer he’s betting against.
Padme
The boy, Anakin Skywalker.
Jabba
Ho, ho, ho.
Droid
The immeasurable Jabba accepts your offer.
The Jedi cast Padme a rather worried glance. Padme smiles with something resembling confidence.
Scene 036 INT. PILOT’S READY ROOM – DAY
Sebulba is in the locker room, donning his gloves, goggles, and other equipment. DORL KELFORN, one of Jabba’s beefy henchmen types, enters.
They begin to speak in subtitled Huttese.
Dorl
Sebulba! How’s it going?
sebulba
Hey, what’re you doin’ here, Dorl? I don’t like ta be bothered at race time.
DORL
Master Jabba see things different.
Sebulba
Ha! Jabba should be happy. I bring him enough winnings.
Dorl
More or less, but this race is special to Jabba. He needs you to beat a guy.
(pauses significantly)
Whatever it takes.
Sebulba
It never takes much. What’ve I got – eight, nine in a row? I’ve lost count. Just one guy, you said?
DOrl
Just one.
Sebulba
Who? Mawhonic?
Dorl
Pfft, no. That human kid.
Sebulba
(guffaws)
Skywalker? I could run him off the course in my sleep.
Dorl
(snarls, grabs Sebulba’s neck)
See that you don’t fall asleep. Lose to the kid, and it will be your hide.
(he releases Sebulba)
Sebulba
Jabba worries too much. I’ll win the whole thing, you tell him that.
(Dorl continues to glare)
… whatever it takes.
Dorl snorts and leaves.
Scene 037 EXT. RACEWAY START – DAY
The pods are arrayed for the race. Aliens of all kinds are scattered amongst the racers, which also vary considerably in design, though they are all essentially a seating pod attached to two huge engines via a length of cable.
Anakin sits in his pod, slowly squeezing and releasing the controls in the cockpit. He looks a bit nervous.
In the background, we hear the racers being introduced by a two headed announcer, FODE/BEED.
beed
The Boonta Classic is getting underway, we have a lot of racers here today!
sebulba
Finally in a race, eh, boy? Hah, hah, now I get to show you what it means to crash.
beed
Gasgano in his new Ord Pedrovia…
anakin
Just try and hold onto that lap record, Sebulba, cause I’m coming after it.
beed
Two-time winner Boles Roor…
Sebulba
(spits)
Watch it, slave-boy, or I’ll see to it Watto gets you back in pieces.
(he laughs)
Beed
And two-time champion, Sebulba of Pixelito!
Sebulba stands up in his pod, responding to the adulation of his fans. Anakin rolls his eyes.
Fode
And let’s not forget, the underdog here tonight, first-time racer Anakin Skywalker!
Anakin does a half wave and grins as Sebulba sneers and takes his seat.
Beed
That’s right, he’ll be racing for Watto’s Spare Parts Emporium, right here in Mos Espa!
In the stands Watto puffs out his chest, then he suddenly pauses, looking down at Anakin’s pod.
Watto
Hey…
(he starts to flutter down the stands)
Jabba
(emerges from his windowed booth)
(speaks in Huttese)
Today’s race is brought to you by these two Jedi!
Jabba laughs hideously as the crowd cheers for the captive Jedi. Padme, in a lower stand, grits her teeth. A fair number of other people in the stands are not particularly happy about Jedi being held captive.
R2 and 3PO enter the stands. 3PO’s body has been apparently repaired, as he is no longer a disembodied head.
3PO
My goodness, R2, what a crowd. I do hope miss Padme and master Anakin know what they’re doing.
r2
(emits a concerned beep)
A SIGNAL LIGHT DROID floats into place above the pods, its light red. The pod racers activate the binding couplings between their engines and the racers roar to life.
Anakin
(turns back to Sebulba)
I’ll wait for you at the finish line.
Sebulba
(nasty look)
I’ll help them fetch your corpse.
(he laughs)
fode
Get ready…
Beed
Get set…
The signal light turns yellow.
Jabba
(in Huttese)
Go!
The light turns green, and the Podracers shoot
forward with a high-pitched scream. Anakin’s engine floods and coughs—then
dies. All the other Podracers except one swerve around him and disappear down
the track. Anakin struggles to get his racer restarted, grimacing. The
two-headed announcer reports.
Fode
And they're off!
Beed
Oh… wait. Skywalker has stalled.
Padme, joining R2 and 3PO in the stands, looks quite concerned. Watto reaches the bottom, suddenly angry.
Watto
That is not’a my pod!
Finally (after about 10 seconds), Anakin's engines ignite. Watto is blown onto his back from the sudden rush of air. Anakin zooms away after the receding pack of competitors, leaving one quadra-Pod racer still trying to get started.
BEED
And there goes Skywalker... He'll be hard pressed to catch up with the leaders today… though he does seem to have a pretty powerful racer. Too bad.
Scene 039 EXT. RACETRACK — DAY
The Podracers fly across the desert. Sebulba is running neck and neck with MAWHONIC. They round the first turn in the track, side by side. Sebulba drives his Pod into his rival, forcing him into the wall of a large rock formation. Mawhonic crashes in a spectacular display of fire and smoke.
Anakin is much faster than the back-end stragglers and passes them easily.
One of the drivers, GASGANO, won't let Anakin by. Anakin tries to pass him on one side and is cut off. He then tries to pass him on the other side and is cut off again. As they come up on a cliff drop-off, Anakin backs off, then guns it as Gasgano goes over the cliff. Anakin accelerates so fast that he sails right over the top of Gasgano and speeds away.
Four TUSKEN RAIDERS perched above the race course fire their rifles at the Pods racing in the canyon below them. One shot ricochets off the back of Anakin's Pod. He worriedly half-smiles.
FODE
Looks like a few Tusken Raiders have camped out on the canyon dune turn.
beed
Probably a bit riled up about their ancestral lands being converted into racetrack.
Fode
Which reminds me, drink Tusken Ale! A product of Jabba Imports.
Scene 040 EXT. RACETRACK START — DAY
Massive view screens hover at a fair height above the stands at a comfortable viewing level. They display key turns and straight-aways on the track.
The driver of the quadra-Pod, BEN QUADINAROS looks worried as he continues to punch his ignition key.
Fode
Hm, usually Ben Quadinaros is one of the leaders, but looks like his pod just doesn’t want to turn on today.
Beed
Four engine designs are always finicky. Not nearly as reliable as twin engines.
Reflecting in the announcer booth window as they speak is one of the screens as a pod racer explodes.
Scene 041 EXT. RACETRACK - DAY
Anakin is powering around corners and over hills and cliffs, passing other racers right and left. Sebulba is in the lead. He is being challenged by another racer, XELBREE.
Sebulba slows a little, and as Xelbree pulls alongside, he opens a side vent on the racer's engine and the exhaust starts to cut through the alien's engine.
The blast cuts along the engine until finally it explodes. Sebulba deftly veers away, cackling.
Anakin works his way through a dense mass of racers as they zoom over a dune sea, kicking up dust. His Pod shakes violently as he goes over a jump. One of the Podracers, ODY, catches one of his engines in the sand, and the whole thing explodes.
Scene 042 EXT. RACETRACK START – DAY
Sebulba and the leaders appear in the distance, closing fast on the starting line. The crowd screams. Watto, now recovered (though a bit singed), is flapping his way to the Official’s Table.
The quadra-Pod engines start just as the racers come around the corner. Ben Quadinaros, puts it in gear, and the four engines go off in all directions, exploding in a spectacular display. The Pod drops to the ground as Sebulba enters the arena, closely followed by all the other racers.
Beed
There goes Quadinaros' power couplings.
Fode
Sebulba in record time!
Lap two. Sebulba and the pack race past the main arena. The crowd stands and yells as the pod racers scream off into the distance. Padme is a bit worried.
Padme
Come on, Anakin…
Coming around the bend is ANAKIN, quickly gaining on the pack. The two-headed announcer describes the action. The crowd goes wild. Padme and the two droids cheer as Anakin passes.
Beed
It looks like Skywalker is moving up through the field. He's in...
Fode
Sixth place. Who knows? Maybe he could still get second or third. Which wouldn’t be bad for a kid in his first race.
ANAKIN continues to gain on the pack. Ody stops in the pits. Droids work on his engines. DUM-4 stands in front of the engine and is sucked in, causing the engine to die. DUM-4 is spit out the back of the engine, very bent up. The engine lets out one final wheeze, then explodes in a puff of smoke. Ody swears in his own tongue.
FODE
Ouch! Ody Mandrell going to need more than just a little work to get that running again!
Beed
And that’s why you shouldn’t settle for low-cost pit droids when you can have an Industrial Automation Astromech droid! Available in our intragalactic catalog!
Scene 043
TERTER is getting close to SEBULBA, who purposely breaks a small part off his pod, sending it into Terter's engine, causing him to veer into Anakin. The pod dislodges the starboard side engine strap, and Anakin’s pod begins to spin out of control as Terter’s pod sputters and skids to a halt.
Scene 044 EXT. RACEWAY START – DAY
The screen has a camera right on the action as Anakin heads to his doom
Beed
Uh, oh. Looks like Skywalker’s passing run is over.
Fode
Looks like his life might be over.
Beed
Brought to you by Kessel Spice!
Watto has reached the Official’s Table, though he isn’t getting much attention over the roar of the crowd.
Judge
What?
Watto
That is not’a my pod!
Judge
But it’s in the race.
Watto
But that is not’a my pod!
Padme and the droids can’t take their eyes off the screen.
Padme
Anakin…
Scene 045
Anakin’s pod is shooting straight for the canyon wall, he strains to reach the binding cable, but it is out of his reach. He strains again, but fails. The wall is mere seconds away. Anakin closes his eyes and reaches out with the Force. The cable shudders… and jumps to his hand. At the last second, Anakin avoids the wall.
Sebulba cuts the engine of OBITOKI with his side exhaust, and the racer crashes with a cloud of dust. A third racer, HABBA, flies into the cloud of dust and crashes into Obitoki. Anakin rounds a corner and heads into the cloud of smoke. He hits a part of one of the engines but regains control.
Scene 046 EXT. RACETRACK START – DAY
Padme, relieved, falls to her knees, leaning on R2’s head.
Beed
Skywalker lives!
Fode
At the start of the third and final lap, Sebulba is in the lead, closely followed by Skywalker! You don’t see this every day!
Beed
But you will see starlines every day, with a Sienar Systems personal Hyperdrive!
Scene 047 INT. JABBA’S BOOTH – DAY
Jabba is not happy with the current results. Five racers remain, but are not close to Sebulba and Anakin. Jabba turns to Bib Fortuna.
Jabba
(in Huttese)
Watch the girl… I want no tricks.
Bib
(in Huttese)
Yes, lord Jabba.
Qui-Gon hears the conversation, understanding what Jabba intends. He closes his eyes.
Scene 048 EXT. RACETRACK START - DAY
Watto continues to talk to the Judge.
Watto
I said…
Suddenly Sebulba’s pod blows by, followed closely by Anakin. Watto gapes as he gets back up.
Judge
So… you want me to disqualify Skywalker?
Watto
No! I made’a mistake, that is’a my pod!
Judge
(rolls eyes, doesn’t disqualify Anakin)
Whatever.
Anakin finally catches up with Sebulba, and runs neck and neck over the rough terrain. The lights in the tower indicate that this is the third and last lap.
Scene 049 EXT. RACEWAY - DAY
Sebulba uses his side exhaust port to try to cut through Anakin's engines. Anakin manages to avoid having his engine disabled but is forced off course.
Beed
Skywalker is forced onto the service ramp!
On a tight corner, Anakin dives to the inside and takes the lead.
Beed
A controlled thrust and he's back on course! What a move!
Sebulba is furious. He stays right on Anakin's tail, crowding him and pushing him through the turns. Sebulba pushes Anakin harder, and the young boy has a difficult time keeping control. Qui-Gon reaches out with the Force to Anakin.
Qui-Gon
(disembodied)
Anakin… Jabba is planning a betrayal… be prepared.
Anakin
What?
Qui-Gon
(disembodied)
Trust me… this is Qui-Gon… I am reaching you with the power of the Force. I repeat, be prepared… especially if you win.
While Anakin is distracted, Sebulba races past him.
Anakin tries to get around Sebulba as they reach the canyon dune turn.
The Sand People fire again, forcing both Sebulba and Anakin to swerve. Sebulba shakes a fist at the raiders. Anakin sees the raiders firing position and calculates a jump. He hits a natural ramp and flies up towards them.
Fode
This is unexpected! It looks like Skywalker wants to take on the Sand People personally!
Anakin’s maneuver forces the Sand People to jump out of the way in a frantic hurry. He reaches out again with the Force, concentrating hard. One of the Tusken Raider’s blaster rifles flies to his hand as he passes.
Anakin races along the top of the canyon, Sebulba below him.
FODE
He's catching Sebulba!
Sebulba is frantically trying to find Anakin, finally spotting his position on the canyon above. Anakin aligns a jump, his pod flying right over Sebulba’s head just before they enter a cave. Anakin ducks to avoid losing his head.
Sebulba guns his engines, catches up, and starts banging his pod repeatedly into Anakin’s pod. Anakin struggles to maintain control as the steering rods on the two Pods become hooked together.
Sebulba
Let’s see you cross the finish line now, boy!
Anakin looks up, Sebulba is angling to slam Anakin straight into a huge stalagmite. Anakin struggles to free the pod with frantic steering, but Sebulba has done his work well. At the last second, Anakin hits the kill switch on his engine. The unexpected move works, as Anakin’s pod is freed, spins, and just misses the stalagmite as it skids to a halt. Sebulba, his steering thrown off by the move, flies off course and smashes into the wall. The starboard engine sputters, but kicks back on. Sebulba screams back onto the course.
Anakin punches the ignition and, after a few seconds, his pod roars back to life. He shoots after Sebulba, the finish line only about three miles away.
Fode
Skywalker couldn’t possibly catch up now!
Anakin’s face is set in grim determination as he
floors the accelerator. Sebulba looks back, gunning his own engines. His
starboard engine struggles.
Scene 050 EXT. RACEWAY START - DAY
Sebulba and Anakin streak toward the finish, Sebulba looking worried, Anakin’s gaze set. He is slowly gaining. Padme is too tense to even move. Bib Fortuna is watching Padme from above.
Sebulba
(screams as he reaches the finish)
Aaaaaaahhhhhhhh!!!!!!!
The pods cross the finish, Anakin by a nose. The crowd erupts.
Beed
It's Skywalker! The crowd is going nuts!
Sebulba’s pod grinds to a halt, the alien’s head thumps onto this control board, exhausted and beaten. Some aliens approach Sebulba and unceremoniously yank him from the pod. They carry him off.
Sebulba
Hey, I did my best!
Henchman
Tell it to Jabba!
Anakin’s pod, traveling too fast to stop immediately, goes a fair distance before he can bring it to a halt.
Padme takes a few moments to catch her breath before she takes a deep one and heads to Jabba’s booth. Bib Fortuna follows her. R2 and 3PO stay in the stands, hopping up and down.
3pO
He did it, R2!
R2
(beeps excitedly)
Scene 051 INT. JABBA’S BOOTH – DAY
Padme enters, a pleased look on her face. Bib follows close behind, glancing at Jabba.
Padme
Master Jabba, I am here to collect my winnings.
Jabba
Ho, ho, ho.
Henchmen appear from the shadows behind Padme, a blaster is pressed to her neck and two more henchmen grab her arms.
Padme
What is the meaning of this?!
Jabba
(says something in Huttese)
Droid
The illustrious Jabba knows your little tricks. The boy is Jedi… and a cheater.
Qui-Gon closes his eyes again, sending a message to Anakin.
Padme
(struggling)
Unhand me! You’ll pay for this, Jabba!
jabba
(subtitled in Huttese)
This is my planet… the only paying is to me! Ho, ho, ho.
Something begins to grow large in the window. On the viewscreen, the two-headed announcer is seen.
Fode
Oh, my! What is Skywalker doing?!
Jabba sees something, turns toward the window. His henchmen turn as well and there is a brief moment where they stand in confusion. Then, with a massive crash, the window shatters as Anakin’s pod racer smashes through. Jabba’s henchmen turn to fire on Anakin. Bib Fortuna dives behind a chair.
Anakin has the Tusken rifle ready and takes out the first henchman to recover. Padme’s arms are released as the man holding her tries to arm his weapon. She elbows the second man covering her in the gut and he falls to his knees.
Qui-Gon shares a look with Obi-Wan. Together they close their eyes. A thick shard of glass levitates into the air and flies toward them. A few quick cuts and the Jedi are free.
Padme grabs the blaster from the man she elbowed and shoots a second henchman. Anakin blows another one away.
The two Jedi leap into the fracas, dealing out fisticuffs to several henchmen. Retrieving a blaster, Qui-Gon shoots their lightsabers free of the glass case.
Jabba roars in fury as the two lightsabers ignite, new swarms of henchmen streaming in. Anakin reaches down and hoists Padme into the pod.
Qui-Gon
Time to go, Anakin!
Anakin shifts into reverse as the Jedi fend off blaster bolts. The pod starts to back up and the two Jedi leap and grab onto the engines. The hum grows as Anakin backs up under fire, clears the booth, and shifts into forward gear.
Obi-Wan
I have a really bad feeling about this.
Anakin guns the pod, blasters firing behind.
Scene 052 EXT. RACEWAY – DAY
Mass confusion has set in as Anakin drives over the stands. Fans leap out of the way. Jabba’s men are in hot pursuit, some already on speeders.
The two Jedi are determinedly holding on under the massive strain. Anakin pulls out a comm-link. 3PO, still with R2 in the stands, answers the call.
3pO
My word, R2, he says to enact Plan B. Do you have any idea what that is?
R2 beeps and immediately starts rolling towards Sebulba’s vacated pod.
3pO
R2! Wait for me!!!
The two droids hurry to the pod, Jabba’s troops and terrified civilians running in the opposite direction around them. Blaster fire spits around as Jabba’s men fire on Anakin’s pod and Padme fires back. Anakin spots Watto as he attempts to escape the arena.
Anakin
(to Qui-Gon)
We need Watto’s slave chip detector!
Watto is fleeing from the pod, his little wings not fast enough. Anakin swerves to pull alongside the toydarian and Qui-Gon reaches out with the Force.
The slave chip detector floats to his hand from Watto’s belt, the toydarian struggling in vain to catch it. Watto, his flight blown off course by the pod’s engines, falls flat onto his face, skidding to a halt on the loose gravel.
The droids reach the pod as Anakin pilots the pod out of the arena.
3pO
Well, I never! Leaving us here like that. Why I… what are you doing, R2?
R2’s grabber arm snags 3PO around the foot, and, with a cry of shock from the protocol droid drags him into the cockpit of Sebulba’s pod.
r2
(beeps a series of instructions and plugs himself into the pod’s network socket)
3pO
(takes the steering controls)
Oh, dear… so this is what master Anakin’s last minute programming was about. Somehow I seem to know that if I activate the controls beside the—
R2 beeps and suddenly the pod flares to life. With a surprised cry from 3PO, he steers around and flies straight at a squad of Jabba’s men. They turn to fire at the new threat.
3PO
Oh dear!!!!
r2
(beeps amusedly)
The pod guns its engines and vents both engines like Sebulba did during the race. The flames force the henchmen to dive for cover.
3PO
Well, stop wasting time, you little metal hooligan. We’re supposed to be rescuing master Anakin’s mother.
R2
(beeps indignantly)
The pod races out of the raceway toward Mos Espa. Jabba’s men are all grabbing speeders of various types and are quickly in pursuit.
3pO
How am I doing this?
Scene 053 EXT. MOS ESPA – DAY
Ruffians in the streets cast puzzled looks as Anakin’s pod flies by at unfathomable speeds. Many poor fools are flung to the ground.
RUFFIAN
Hey! Keep the pods at the races! I—
Jabba’s men on speeders blow him aside again. Blaster fire rains back and forth between the pod and the speeders. The ruffian dives for cover.
Scene 054 EXT. ANAKIN’S HOUSE – DAY
The droids in Sebulba’s pod pull alongside the house, Shimia comes outside somewhat warily.
Shimia
R2? 3PO? But where is Anakin?
3PO
Oh, dear me. Forgive me, madam Skywalker. But my counterpart and I have been instructed by master Anakin to rescue you.
Shimia looks up the street. Jabba’s men are not far away.
Shimia
Oh, I see. Well, I—
Blaster fire hits the house. Alarmed, she jumps to the pod, 3PO helps squeeze her into the cockpit.
R2 beeps excitedly, and the pod shoots off again at high speed.
Scene 055 EXT. JEDI CRUISER CRASH SITE – DAY
The Queen is once more on her chair, her attendants fanning her. The bored Captain is tossing rocks. The Supreme Advisor is sleeping. In the distance, a huge dust cloud can be seen approaching.
Captain
Huh. What do you suppose that is?
No one answers him. He grumpily kicks the Supreme Advisor awake.
Supreme Advisor
Gah! What do you want?!
Captain
(points at the dust cloud)
Look like trouble?
Supreme Advisor
(grumpily)
I doubt any more trouble than we already have.
Queen
This is becoming intolerable. How long am I, the Queen of Naboo, expected to tolerate this, this… desert!?
Supreme Advisor
Do not worry, my queen. Once we get a few more systems repaired we will—
(looks at the cloud, it is becoming obvious that it is actually the two pods with Jabba’s speeders behind them)
I do say, that doesn’t look good, does it?
Scene 056
Anakin, Padme, and the two Jedi occupy the first pod (the two Jedi still clinging helplessly to the engines), and R2, 3PO, and Shimia in the second pod. Blaster fire from the trailing speeders ricochets around them. Padme returns fire with both the blaster she picked up and the Tusken Raider rifle.
Obi-wan
(over the roar of the engines)
Master, we’re going to be cutting this awfully close!
qui-gon
Indeed, my young padawan! But prepare yourself for we shall have little time in which to make our getaway!
Scene 057 EXT. JEDI CRUISER CRASH SITE - DAY
The pods reach the cruiser and screech to a halt. Anakin helps Padme down as the two Jedi slide off before plopping bodily onto the sand. 3PO and Shimia pull R2 out of the pod cockpit after it settles on the ground. Jabba’s speeders are closing fast.
Anakin
R2, get the ship’s computer back online!
R2
(beeps an acknowledgement and rolls into the ship)
Queen
Padme!? What is this? You assured me it was going to be a simple diplomatic endeavor to free these Jedi, but now!?
Padme
We’re really going to have to talk about this later.
Padme grabs the Queen by the arm and drags her into the spacecraft. The Supreme Advisor shrugs and follows after. The Captain collects his men and they wait by the ramp.
Scene 058 INT. JEDI STAR CRUISER - DAY
R2 plugs himself into the network interface socket.
3PO
Hurry, R2! Jabba the Hutt himself is coming!
R2
(whistles indignantly)
3PO
Well, I am a protocol droid, not a mechanic! How am I supposed to know how long computer core reprogramming takes?
Scene 059 EXT. JEDI CRUISER CRASH SITE – DAY
Qui-Gon
Anakin? I do hope you have a plan.
Anakin
I sure hope so, too.
(he flicks a switch on his pod and turns it toward the onrushing horde)
(in a low voice to the pod)
Thanks, ol’ girl.
Anakin jumps off the pod, whose engines roar automatically to life. He activates an automatic remote control and the two pods fire up. With a massive roar, they fly straight for Jabba’s forces.
The pods streak toward the onrushing speeders and explode in a massive fireball. Many of Jabba’s henchmen are blown to smithereens, the blasted remains of their speeders falling in ruined pieces to the sand. The others hover momentarily in disarray.
Anakin, Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Shimia, the Captain, and the guards are on the ramp. The Captain and his men cheer at the sight of Jabba’s speeders blown up. Anakin grins.
At a look from Shimia, Anakin and she step away from the others.
Shimia
Anakin… you know I… I can’t come with you.
Anakin
What? Mom, you have to!
Shimia
The slave chip, Anakin… if I leave the planet I’ll die.
Obi-wan
(grinning, holding the slave chip in his hand)
You mean this slave chip?
Shimia
(feeling the back of her neck)
How did you…?
Qui-Gon
(flourishing Watto’s slave chip detector)
A little gift from Watto.
Shimia and Anakin hug. Out on the desert, Jabba himself has arrived, accompanied by more minions and a very large projectile cannon. It fires.
Scene 060 INT. JEDI STAR CRUISER – DAY
3PO
Quickly, R2! They’re shooting!
R2
(beeps indignantly)
Suddenly, with a roar, the engines kick on. The computer begins to hum and lights turn on all over the ship.
3PO
You did it, R2! You did it!
Scene 061 EXT. JEDI CRUISER CRASH SITE – DAY
The cannon shot is rapidly flying towards them.
Qui-Gon
Quickly! Everyone get on board!
The Captain and his men begin obeying this command.
Obi-Wan
Master, our shields aren’t operational yet!
The two Jedi watch the incoming salvo, then close their eyes, concentrating. A short distance away, unnoticed, Anakin does the same. The cannon shot swerves aside at the last instant.
Anakin stumbles, not realizing what he’d done. Obi-Wan notes this, helps him into the ship. Qui-Gon follows, the ramp closing behind.
With a massive roar, the Jedi Star Cruiser blasts into space, blaster bolts from the surface uselessly striking off the hull. They have escaped.
Scene 062 EXT. TATOOINE ORBIT – SPACE – DAY
The Jedi Star Cruiser blasts out of the atmosphere and into space. Moments later, it flies into hyperspace.
Scene 063 INT. JEDI STAR CRUISER – HYPERSPACE
Qui-Gon, standing in the cockpit with Anakin, flips a few switches to activate the auto-pilot. Both start walking to the ship’s common room.
Anakin
Well, I didn’t have time to fix the ship’s long-range communications yet, but we should reach Coruscant in a few days.
Qui-Gon nods, and sits in one of the seats. Obi-Wan and Padme are currently engaged in a game of holographic chess [same as the one from “Episode 4: A New Hope”].
Qui-Gon
We have to thank you, Anakin, and you, Padme.
(he nods to her, she smiles modestly)
Things did not progress on Tatooine as I would have preferred, but all is well now.
(he looks to Anakin)
How does it feel to be free, Anakin?
aNAKIN
You have no idea.
Qui-Gon
What I’d really like to know is how ready you are to give part of it up?
Anakin
What do you mean?
Qui-Gon
(with a glance at Obi-Wan)
Anakin, the
Anakin
(he is overwhelmed)
A Jedi Knight…? Me?
Qui-Gon smiles. Padme hugs Anakin.
Obi-Wan
Master? A word?
Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon move to the far end of the room.
Obi-Wan
Master, truly the boy is strong in the Force, but…
Qui-Gon
But what?
Obi-Wan
It’s almost as if he… were too strong.
Qui-Gon
Exactly, Obi-Wan. This boy… he fits the prophecy.
Obi-Wan
The
Qui-Gon
I am not one to leap to conclusions, Obi-Wan, but… he fits all the signs.
Obi-Wan nods and looks over to Anakin, who is happily laughing with Padme.
Scene 064 EXT. CORUSCANT – SPACE – DAY/NIGHT
The Jedi Star Cruiser breaks out of Hyperspace. The vast cityscape of Coruscant looms before them. The nightside of the planet twinkles with trillions of lights.
Scene 065 INT. JEDI STAR CRUISER – SPACE
Anakin and Padme look out the window at the planet below.
Padme
I’ve never been to Coruscant before… its so unlike Naboo!
Anakin
Or Tatooine…
Padme
The entire planet is one city.
Anakin
Wow… must be crowded.
Scene 066 EXT. CORUSCANT – DAY
The Jedi Star Cruiser descends through the atmosphere
towards the
A huge landing strip is near the
Palpatine
Master Jedi! Your highness! Until I received your transmission I had feared the worst.
Queen
(with a cold glance at Qui-Gon)
With good reason, Senator.
Supreme Advisor
Quite so. It was terrible! The queen’s life was endangered repeatedly and—
Palpatine
Most dreadful, I have no doubt. However, these details will have to wait. I have a small speech to make.
Qui-Gon
A speech? To whom?
Palpatine
(smiling)
You’ll find out soon enough, master Jedi.
Palpatine beckons them to follow him. They enter a transport car which speeds off into the city.
Scene 067 EXT. CORUSCANT – DAY
The transport speeder flies rapidly through the city, apparently ignoring sky traffic lanes.
Scene 068 INT. PALPATINE’S TRANSPORT – DAY
The limo-like transport interior finds the Jedi and their companions seated across from Palpatine, who sits facing backwards. Palpatine uncorks a bottle of some fancy drink and begins filling glasses.
Qui-Gon
If I may ask, Senator, what is it you are celebrating?
Palpatine
Only the beginning of peace in the Galaxy, my good Jedi.
(he begins handing out drinks. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan decline.)
For you see, the Senate has most graciously agreed to my humble suggestions and you are about to witness the fruits of our efforts.
He smiles and waves toward a side window.
Scene 069 EXT. CORUSCANT – DAY
Below them is a military staging zone and many ships are arrayed along with thousands of soldiers at fixed attention.
The transport speeder stops by a large balcony affixed to a building on the edge of the staging zone. Palpatine stands in the doorway of the transport, holding his fist high for the troops to see. They let out a mighty cheer and he dismounts from the speeder. He is immediately surrounded by media and sycophants. He heads for the podium.
The balcony is currently occupied by many others, including the JEDI MASTERS and other Senators, including Bel Iblis, MON MOTHMA, BAIL ORGANA, and Chancellor Valorum. Count Dooku is among the assembled Jedi. Palpatine has taken his place at the podium, and the other passengers from the speeder are exiting.
Qui-Gon looks immediately to YODA and MACE WINDU, the highest-ranking Jedi Masters. They speak softly, so as not to interrupt Palpatine, who has begun speaking.
Yoda
(bows his head)
Qui-Gon, good to see you alive it is.
Mace Windu
When we heard about the takeover on Naboo, then lost communications with you, there was quite a bit of concern.
Qui-Gon
We do have many things to discuss.
Anakin steps closer to the conversation, curious. Yoda immediately turns to size him up, Mace Windu does the same. Both look thoughtful and exchange glances.
Yoda
Many things… indeed do we.
They look back to Palpatine, who is reaching the climax of his speech.
Palpatine
Today is a strange day for our fair Republic… it is a sad day… but it is also a good day.
(pause)
With the enemies of democracy pounding at our very borders, we can no longer stand idle as our great Republic is torn to shreds! We must rise up once again and bring this Galaxy back together. One Galaxy, one Republic!
He raises his hands for effect, the crowd and soldiers cheer.
Scene 070 INT. FANCY HOUSE – NIGHT
Count Dooku stands imperiously in the room, his great cloak billowing about him as he paces in front of the communication projector, occasionally revealing his lightsaber. He is communicating with the rebel leaders.
Dooku
I thought we had an understanding. You know my master’s wishes. To bring about your victory over the Republic you must do as he says.
Meldorn
We do not wish to sound ungrateful, but…
We will not torture these people. We are not animals!
Ackbar
What your master wishes is barbaric and cruel.
Dooku
Now, now, friends… Cutting off the hands of a few uncooperative members of the Naboo civil service is hardly a condemnation of your moral principles. If you do not show the Republic you mean business, they will walk all over you.
Tell your benefactor the deal is off!
The communication ends. Dooku crushes the comm device with the Force, his face contorted in rage. DARTH SIDIOUS glides into the room. Dooku closes his eyes, attempting to bottle his rage. Sidious wears a dark cloak that conceals him completely. Only his chin and mouth are revealed at any time.
Dooku
Master Sidious…
Sidious
Reluctant, are they?
Dooku
They will no longer answer to our demands.
Sidious
The spectacle of them torturing citizens was merely icing on the cake. The war has begun just as I have foreseen.
Dooku
But this Rebellion is not threatening enough, master. The Republic’s troops are citizens… they will not be easily controlled.
Sidious
That will change in time. More systems can be driven to revolution… and for less noble purposes. That shall be your task, Darth Tyrannus.
Dooku
Shall I then break with the Jedi order?
Sidious
Not yet… the Dark Side will continue to conceal us.
(pause)
But something is troubling you, my apprentice.
Dooku
These Trade Federation rebels should be taught a lesson, master. Their leaders should be dispatched before they can escape.
Sidious
Indeed… a step I have already taken. Surely you remember Darth Maul?
Dooku
It will be a bloodbath…
Sidious
No less than traitors deserve.
Sidious laughs hideously. Dooku joins in.
Scene 071 INT. CORUSCANT – MON MOTHMA’S HOME
MON MOTHMA, Senator of Chandrila, sits in her home along with BAIL ORGANA of Alderaan and Bel Iblis. Their holographic comm device connects them with the Trade Federation rebels.
Mon Mothma
It is too late, General
(nods gravely)
If our plans can come together… we can stop Palpatine in his tracks.
Bail Organa
(resigned)
Then it will come to open war?
There is no other choice, Senator. The Republic is beyond reason. The takeover of the Kuat Drive Shipyards illustrated that well enough.
Bel Iblis
You don’t have to remind me, General. We’re all in this together.
This may be the last time we are able to talk. Thank you
for all your help. I hope to see you in the
Ackbar
May the Force be with us all.
The transmission ends.
Bail Organa
Well, we’re committed now.
Mon Mothma
Don’t be foolish, Bail. We committed to this when we started routing funds to the cause. We must reverse the course this government is on. We must preserve freedom.
Bel Iblis
(looking at the window at the Star Destroyer-esque warships)
If it isn’t already too late…
Scene 072
In a sectioned-off testing area, Anakin is being tested against drones. His lightsaber flashes, deflecting the small arms blaster fire. Yoda, Mace Windu, and Qui-Gon observe from outside.
Mace Windu
Remarkable… he’s already broken two training course records.
Yoda
A capable fighter, he is.
Qui-Gon
Then you believe it possible.
Mace Windu
Qui-Gon… I don’t know yet… an excellent warrior he could easily become, but… the Chosen One?
Yoda
Learn more, we must. Speak to the boy’s mother, Qui-Gon. Tell us what you learn.
Qui-Gon nods. They turn back to Anakin, who is now fighting training droids, defeating them handily.
Yoda
(watching with great interest)
(low voice)
Remarkable coincidence indeed, it would be.
Scene 073 EXT. SHIMIA’S GUEST QUARTERS - BALCONY
Shimia sits on the balcony, staring out at the view. Qui-Gon appears and places a hand on her shoulder.
Shimia
Oh, master Qui-Gon, I didn’t see you.
Qui-Gon
Please, Mrs. Skywalker, just Qui-Gon will do.
Shimia
(smiles)
Then you must call me Shimia.
Qui-Gon nods with a smile. For a few moments they watch the play of lights in the city.
Shimia
I didn’t expect to see anything but sand again… not after I lost my husband and we were sold on Tatooine.
Qui-Gon
Anakin’s father?
Shimia
Delfor Skywalker. He was a…
(she pauses)
Jedi.
Qui-Gon
He was?
She looks flustered. Her eyes go down.
Qui-Gon
I’m sorry. What happened?
Shimia
A Sith Lord killed him.
Qui-Gon is taken aback. He swallows.
Qui-Gon
A Sith Lord? Are you sure?
Shimia
Quite sure. I don’t know his name, but… he wielded a lightsaber with two blades. He was a dark man with a red-striped face.
(she shudders)
Like a demon…
Shimia turns back to the scenery. Qui-Gon remains with her, his hand on her shoulder, many thoughts running through his head.
Scene 074 INT. SITH TRAINING ROOMS – DIMLY LIT
DARTH MAUL, Sith Lord and apprentice to Darth Sidious trains against legions of droids. He is a nightmarish figure, a bizarre alien lanced with red and black stripes with horns atop his head. He wields a red double-bladed lightsaber.
Despite some of the droids wielding lightsabers, Maul effortlessly obliterates the horde of them.
Darth Sidious enters as Maul dispatches the last of his foes. Maul’s glowing eyes settle on his master and he deactivates his lightsaber.
Sidious
(surveying the carnage)
I have a task for you, my apprentice.
Maul merely watches Sidious as he strolls about the room.
Sidious
Our allies in the Trade Federation have turned on us. It is time to teach them a lesson.
A flicker of a smile is revealed on Maul’s face.
Sidious
There are three leaders… Darth Tyrannus shall provide the information to you. Kill any in your way.
A smile crosses Sidious’ concealed face as Maul exits. A look of morbid delight cracks across Maul’s hideous visage.
Scene 075 INT. JEDI
Qui-Gon waits as Obi-Wan completes a task on a computer terminal. The younger Jedi rises, holding a large folder of archival data.
Obi-Wan
I’m sorry, master, but there is no record of a Delfor Skywalker in the Jedi logs.
Qui-Gon
And you’re positive.
Obi-Wan
I’ve run the search ten times, master, and checked the records from all the possible years myself. He was not a Jedi.
Qui-Gon is frustrated. He turns away.
Obi-Wan
Why would she lie to you?
Qui-Gon
The Force is not so easily deceived, Obi-Wan. If she was indeed lying, then the lie is only in part. There was a Delfor Skywalker somewhere. Of that I am sure.
Qui-Gon leaves the archives, Obi-Wan follows slowly after.
Scene 076 EXT. NABOO AIRSPACE – SPACE – DAY
The Trade Federation Fleet is breaking orbit.
Scene 077 INT. REBEL FLAGSHIP BRIDGE – SPACE – DAY
Ackbar
My people are still reluctant to pledge military support to our efforts.
(nods)
Well, can’t say that wasn’t expected. However, this little mission may have the effect of turning our cause around.
Meldorn
I still think this attack may be rather rash.
On the contrary, Meldorn, this will be the last thing they will expect. When the Republic fleet arrives to destroy us…
(he demonstrates flying quickly with hand gestures)
We won’t be here.
(he presses a button, giving him fleetwide communication)
All ships prepare for departure.
Comms Officer
(turns to
Sir, you have a private message coming through.
(annoyed)
I’ll get back to them.
Comms Officer
It’s from your wife, sir.
Oh…
(pause)
I’ll take it in my quarters.
(he turns to Ackbar)
You have the bridge.
Ackbar
(to the crew)
Belay hyperspace jump until my command.
Scene 078 EXT. NABOO AIRSPACE – SPACE – DAY
The Trade Federation fleet begins to move out of orbit on sublight engines.
Meanwhile, from the dark side of the planet, a ship comes out of hyperspace, it is a Sith Fighter. It moves stealthily toward the fleet, its black coloring rendering it almost invisible.
Scene 079 INT. SITH FIGHTER – SPACE – DAY
Darth Maul is at the controls. He grins wickedly as he makes his way undetected to the rear of the rebel flagship.
Scene 080 EXT. REBEL FLAGSHIP BRIDGE – SPACE – DAY
Maul’s ship pressure-seals to the hull of the flagship and he cuts his way inside using his lightsaber.
Scene 081 INT. REBEL FLAGSHIP BRIDGE – SPACE – DAY
An OFFICER is fiddling with his readouts, looking rather troubled. Ackbar moves over to him.
Ackbar
Problems, lieutenant?
OFFICER
Nothing serious, I think, sir. Our sensors blacked out briefly, but they’re back online now.
Ackbar
That is a troubling malfunction.
Officer
Was probably just a passing comet or something, sir.
Ackbar
(frowns)
Possibly…
Comms OFFICER
Sir, General Antilles says to proceed with the hyperspace jump.
Ackbar
(pressing the fleetwide comm button)
All ships prepare to depart!
Scene 082 EXT. NABOO AIRSPACE – SPACE – DAY
The fleet blasts into hyperspace, Maul’s Sith Fighter still inconspicuously attached to the hull of the flagship.
Scene 083 EXT. CORUSCANT MILITARY STAGING AREA –
DAY
The ranks of soldiers are entering the capital ships, many fighters are already streaking into orbit. Palpatine, in full uniform, stands at the entrance ramp to his capital ship. Tarkin is nearby, in a neat Senator’s suit. A crowd watches as the ships depart.
Palpatine
(to the crowd)
May we restore unity to the Galaxy!
The crowd cheers.
Palpatine
(to Tarkin)
Watch the Senate for me while I’m away, Tarkin… we wouldn’t want any nasty political coups. You know what I mean.
Tarkin
Don’t worry yourself. Things will be just as you left them. Better, in fact, once you return victorious.
Palpatine nods and turns to his ship. He strides inside.
With a great roar, the ships fly into space away from Coruscant.
Scene 084 EXT. NEAR CORUSCANT AIRSPACE – SPACE –
DAY
The fleet of ships, capital warships and fighters, exit the planet’s gravity well.
Scene 085 INT. PALPATINE’S FLAGSHIP – SPACE – DAY
Palpatine sits at his command chair, a mixture of pleasure and cunning on his face.
Palpatine
All ships make way for Naboo system on my order.
Scene 086 EXT. NEAR CORUSCANT AIRSPACE – SPACE –
DAY
The Republic starship fleet zooms into hyperspace.
Scene 087 INT.
Come in.
Ackbar enters.
Ackbar
Is everything all right, general?
(smiles and chuckles)
Yes, Ackbar, everything is fine.
(he crosses fingers)
My wife is pregnant with my son.
Ackbar
Congratulations.
(stands up and claps Ackbar on the back as they leave his quarters together)
I told her to name him Wedge… since he’s sticking a wedge into my life.
Ackbar chuckles in a mon calamari-ish way.
Scene 088
Yoda sits across from Anakin in a small shadowed room. The Jedi Master stares across at Anakin, who seems a bit impatient.
Yoda
Thoughts, have you?
Anakin
Master Yoda, I don’t understand what you want me to do. I thought I was going to be trained as a Jedi.
Yoda
More there is to Jedi than fighting. Clear his feelings, a Jedi must. Understand himself. Only then, as one with the Force will you be.
Anakin
(grimaces)
Can’t we just get to that later?
Yoda
No! Impatient are you. A path to the Dark Side it is. Tempt you, it will. Power it will offer… resist it, you must.
Anakin
I don’t want power… I want to fight for justice.
Yoda
Much darkness there is in your past, young Skywalker… much evil around you. Strong in the Force, you are… stronger in your convictions you must be.
Anakin
What do you want me to do?
Yoda
Visions the Force will give you… visions we seek. Of the past.
(Anakin looks confused)
Concentrate… and let your feelings guide you…
Anakin begins slowly, but it is quickly apparent that he is experiencing a vision. He grits his teeth.
Scene 089
Anakin drifts into a vision of a dark temple, a place of twisted evil. Anakin and Yoda, seeing the vision together, stand on a balcony high above the main temple. Below, at a great altar, stand a great many bound people of various species. One is tied to the altar, a Sith Lord, Darth Sidious in front of him. Sidious holds a jagged blade, stained with old blood.
Sidious
To the Dark Lords of the Sith… and to the Force… I present these offerings…
Suddenly, from the rear entrance, a man enters, DELFOR SKYWALKER. He is garbed similarly to the Sith Lord, but his head is uncovered. He bears a striking resemblance to Anakin.
Sidious
Ah, my young apprentice. Come to view the proceedings?
DELFOR
You’ve killed your last innocent, Sidious.
(he ignites his red lightsaber)
Sidious
The Dark Side won’t let you leave so easily, young Skywalker… or are you so naïve?
Sidious unleashes a bolt of Dark Force Lightning at Delfor, who deflects it off his lightsaber.
Sidious
(cackling)
So… it is your young wife that has turned you from me, is it? Your feelings betray her to me.
Delfor
You’ll never find her!
Sidious
(laughs)
You underestimate the power of the Dark Side!
The next lightning attack also is deflected. Delfor advances forward, Sidious pours out more lightning, striking Delfor despite his best efforts to protect himself. But Delfor is slowly gaining the upperhand.
Sidious
Your hate makes you powerful!
Delfor
One more death on my conscience will make little difference.
He beats Sidious back, casting the Sith Lord to his back with a wave of the Force. He moves in for the kill, but stops at the last, his blade inches from Sidious’ throat.
Sidious
(laughs hideously)
Turned from the Dark Side so completely then? How amusing.
Delfor
(panting)
You will come with me to the
Sidious laughs, for, behind Delfor, Darth Maul has silently dropped to the floor. At the last moment, the Force alerts Delfor to the treachery, but he is too slow. Maul cuts Delfor’s sword arm off and drives his lightsaber through his chest. Delfor sinks to his knees, gasping for air, shock on his face. Sidious climbs to his feet.
Sidious
I must admit I broke a little rule. I have more than one apprentice.
He laughs hideously. The vision fades.
Scene 090
Anakin comes out of the vision in a gasp, shock and terror on his face. Yoda slowly opens his eyes, a grimace crosses his features.
Anakin
My father…
Yoda sighs, many thoughts on his mind.
Scene 091 EXT. NABOO AIRSPACE – SPACE – DAY
The Republic Battlefleet decelerates from hyperspace, but there is no opposition. Naboo has been deserted.
Scene 092 INT. PALPATINE’S FLAGSHIP – SPACE – DAY
A BRIDGE OFFICER approaches Palpatine’s command chair.
BRidge officer
Sir, we can find no trace of the rebels except for their emissions. They were here… but they’ve been gone for quite a while now.
Palpatine
(strokes his chin)
Now where have you gone, my little friends?
(his eyes suddenly widen)
No… they wouldn’t be so bold…
(he smiles)
But perhaps everything will still work out.
(he chuckles)
New course headings being transmitted now.
(he presses a button)
Scene 093
The Jedi Masters are in conversation as Yoda enters, his face grave. Qui-Gon appears anxious.
Dooku
Master Yoda…
Mace Windu
What did you learn?
Yoda
Verified, the prophecy is.
Dooku
Born of darkness?
Yoda
Sith, the boy’s father was. Turn back to the light, he did.
Qui-Gon leans back in his seat, his face a mixture of shock and relief.
Dooku
The Sith? But they have not been heard from in centuries!
Mace Windu
It has been indeed been a long time… how could their presence have been masked from us?
Yoda
Cunning, the Dark Side is. Hide them, it can, if masters they be.
Qui-Gon
What of Anakin?
YOda
(sighs and shakes his head)
Powerful, he is. And impatient. Tendrils of the Dark Side I sense in him.
Mace Windu
Then it is as we feared. The boy may be too powerful to train.
Qui-Gon
That is foolishness! The boy has a good heart. If you neglect his training, that would be a path to the Dark Side.
YOda
Correct, master Qui-Gon is. We dare not train the boy to use his powers, but train him we must.
(Yoda pauses, his ears twitching)
I sense a disturbance in the Force…
The other Jedi look around, some climbing to their feet.
Yoda
A Sith approaches… Out of the shadows, he has finally stepped.
Scene 094 EXT. CORUSCANT AIRSPACE – SPACE – DAY
The Trade Federation fleet exits from hyperspace in a mass exodus, taking up offensive positions around the planet.
Scene 095 INT. REBEL FLAGSHIP BRIDGE – SPACE – DAY
Target the planetary shield generators, and attempt to minimize civilian casualties.
Officer
Yessir.
Ackbar
Launch all fighters and prepare for attack!
Scene 096 EXT. CORUSCANT AIRSPACE – SPACE – DAY
The Trade Federation flagships launch a series of salvos, taking out the planetary shield generators before they can be activated.
Multiple attack satellites move into position and begin firing turbolasers at the rebels. From the surface, a wing of fighters are mobilized. Planetary ion cannons begin firing, disabling several rebel ships.
A large-scale space battle ensues, though the Coruscant forces are largely outnumbered. Several key weapons facilities on the planet surface are destroyed, including the planetary ion cannons. The satellite defense grid is also being systematically eliminated.
Scene 097 INT. REBEL FLAGSHIP HALLS – SPACE – DAY
In the hallways of the flagship, several crewmen are dispatched by Darth Maul, his lightsaber cutting them in half. He advances on the bridge.
An OFFICER wanders into the hall, and is suddenly met with the Sith Lord. Maul cuts his leg off at the knee, but the Officer manages to hit the alarm button. A red alert sounds.
Maul snarls, and picks his pace up to a smooth run, finishing the Officer off in stride..
Scene 098 INT. REBEL FLAGSHIP BRIDGE – SPACE – DAY
BRIDGE OFFICER
Sir, we have an intruder! Heading straight for us!
Meldorn
Dispatch all security teams to the bridge!
Scene 099
An array of security personnel joined by
Maul is terrifying to behold. He effortlessly deflects the barrage of blaster fire, mowing through the troops like the grim reaper. His lightsaber seems to travel in an endless arc as it dispatches them one by one.
A few stray shots penetrate his whirling lightsaber blades, but the Sith Lord seems totally unfazed.
Fall back!!
The soldiers retreat to the bridge, Maul close behind. He reaches the bridge access, but a large security door slams shut in front of him.
His lip curls in a sneer as he reaches out his hand, to open the door with the Force.
Scene 100 INT. REBEL FLAGSHIP BRIDGE – SPACE – DAY
The bridge crew watches in horror as the security door grates on its mechanism, the force of its hydraulics fighting with the power of the Force.
That door won’t last much longer!
Scene 101
The Jedi Masters have left the council chambers and are speeding along the halls to various defensive tasks. Qui-Gon finds Obi-Wan near the archives.
Obi-Wan
Master, the city is under attack!
Qui-Gon
Don’t state the obvious, my young padawan. Where is Anakin?
Obi-Wan
In the archives with miss Padme—
Qui-Gon
Quickly!
They speed down the corridor to the archives. Anakin and Padme are looking out the window at the battle scene, though not much is visible in the atmosphere. Anakin senses the Jedi’s approach and turns.
Anakin
Who’s attacking?
Qui-Gon
That isn’t important right now, Anakin. You and Padme must stay here, where it is safe.
Anakin
But—
Qui-Gon
(commandingly)
Stay. Here.
Anakin nods with frustration as the two Jedi exit.
Padme
Anakin, is something bothering you? That vision you had?
Anakin
(shakes his head)
I just get the feeling… that he’s close.
Scene 102 INT. REBEL FLAGSHIP – SPACE – DAY
Two battle droids swoop down the corridor towards Maul, whose attention is still focused on the door, which has now risen several inches. The droids open fire.
At the last, Maul whips around, his lightsaber deflecting the salvo. One of the blaster shots is ricocheted back toward the droid that fired it. Maul clenches his fist and the second droid implodes on itself. He turns back toward the door.
Scene 103 INT. JEDI FIGHTER HANGAR – DAY
Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan rush into the fighter hangar bay, where many Jedi fighter ships wait for battle. Many are already being launched. The two Jedi each choose a craft and settle into the cockpits. They put on comm headsets.
Qui-Gon
May the Force be with us.
Obi-Wan
Good luck, master.
The two fighters speed out of the hangar bay.
Scene 104 EXT. CORUSCANT AIRSPACE – DAY
The two Jedi fighters gain speed and altitude quickly, whipping past the skyscrapers. In moments, they have cleared the planet’s atmosphere.
In space, the scene is desperate. Battles are raging all about as blasts, turbolasers, missiles, and proton torpedoes streak about. The Rebels possess no very large capital ships, but several Nebula B Frigates (medical frigates) and Corellian Corvettes are in the battle. Many fighters are spread out. The Coruscant defenders have only fighters.
Qui-Gon
(altering some controls)
Divert primary power to your engines and shields, keep laser power in reserve.
Obi-Wan
Yes, master.
They zip through a squadron of ships, firing off several salvos of missiles. Many of their shots find their mark.
Qui-Gon
Good shot, Obi-Wan.
They angle under a Nebula Frigate, whose turbolasers are unable to lock onto their fast moving craft. The two Jedi fighters take out another few fighters that cross their path.
Scene 105 INT. REBEL FLAGSHIP – SPACE – DAY
The door can hold no longer. It crumples up like tin foil as Maul finally blasts it aside with the Force. His face is deathly grim as he enters the room, sizing up the opposition.
Who are you and what do you want?
Maul
(smiles grimly)
Regards from your benefactor.
The connection hits the Rebel leaders immediately,
and the color drains from
(broken from his stupor)
No!!!
Run!
The bridge crew hesitates as Maul tosses the general
aside.
Ackbar
General—
That’s an order.
Ackbar nods. The bridge crew escapes the room as Maul drives his lightsaber home. He starts after the escaping crew.
Computer
Escape pods jettisoned.
Maul turns back to the console, sneering. Sure enough, escape pods have jettisoned from the ship, making their way to the nearest Rebel capital ship.
Scene 106 EXT. CORUSCANT AIRSPACE – SPACE - DAY
The Jedi’s fast winding course brings them close to the rebel flagship. The escape pods are jettisoning.
Obi-Wan
Master, that ship—
Qui-Gon
(low voice)
It’s him…
Obi-Wan
Master?
Qui-Gon
A Sith is aboard that ship.
But their attention is momentarily distracted, for the fleet has made it back. Palpatine’s flagship appears first from hyperspace, closely followed by the rest of the Republic craft.
Scene 107 INT. PALPATINE’S FLAGSHIP – SPACE – DAY
Palpatine
Engage the rebels, focus fire on their capital ships.
Scene 108 INT. REBEL FLAGSHIP – SPACE – DAY
Maul stands at the controls, his lightsaber disengaged. He sneers again, the ship is turning towards the Nebula B Frigate to which the pods are escaping.
Darth Sidious’ Voice
Let them go, my apprentice… I shall deal with the Mon Calamari. I have – another task for you.
Scene 110
Anakin bursts through the doors to the council chamber, but it is mostly empty. Yoda alone stands near the window, a grim expression on his face. Padme follows closely behind Anakin, looking quite concerned.
Anakin
He’s up there, isn’t he? The Sith who killed my father?
Yoda
A path to the Dark Side, revenge is. Clouded by hate. Do not kill in anger, young Skywalker.
Anakin
Is he up there!?
YOda
The murderer is.
Anakin turns and rushes from the room. Padme turns to follow, but Yoda takes her arm.
Yoda
Impetuous, he is. But good at heart. Keep him in the light, you can.
Padme swallows hard and nods. Yoda grimly returns the gesture. Padme hurries after Anakin.
Scene 111 EXT. CORUSCANT AIRSPACE – SPACE – DAY
The arrival of the Republic fleet has changed the course of the battle, though it is by no means decided. Several new squadrons of fighters are the first to join the fray, but the Republic capital ships are not far behind. These Star Destroyer-like ships are more powerful than the Rebel ships. The Rebel frigates and Corellian Corvettes stay out of their range.
The two Jedi fighters streak toward the rebel flagship, which is heading straight towards Coruscant.
Qui-Gon
Whatever he’s planning, Obi-Wan, we have to stop him.
Obi-Wan
How, master?
Qui-Gon
Aim for the cargo bay.
The two Jedi craft zoom forward as the Corvette begins to launch turbolaser fire in their direction. The Jedi evade the attacks. The ships fast approach the atmosphere.
Obi-Wan
He’s heading for the city!
The Jedi open fire on the cargo bay, blowing a hole.
Qui-Gon
There’s our opening.
The two ships streak inside the cargo bay just as the Corvette begins reentry. Heat builds on the outside of the craft, blasting Maul’s ship, which was still adhered to the hull of the Corvette, off. It bursts into a fireball and is destroyed.
Scene 112
The two Jedi ships skid across the bay, thudding into the far wall. The two Jedi are out in moments, their lightsabers ignited, but there is no opposition.
Qui-Gon
(pointing toward exit hall)
This way.
The two Jedi set off at a run.
Scene 113
Anakin rushes in, followed by Padme at some distance. He has a look of rage on his face as he looks out the open hangar window. An empty ship sits in the bay, unmanned. Anakin heads for it.
Padme
Anakin, wait!
Anakin ignores her, pausing to grab the flight helmet sitting near the fighter. Padme finally catches up to him.
Padme
(grabbing his bicep)
Anakin!
Anakin
(whirling around)
What?!
Padme
(startled at his angry outburst)
You’re going to get yourself killed!
Anakin
(turning away)
You don’t understand.
Padme
Yes I do! He killed your father! Anyone would understand that!
Anakin
(turning back to face her)
Then you know why I have to kill him.
Padme
But Anakin, what Yoda told you… you can’t… go to the Dark Side…
(she has tears in her eyes and sinks to her knees)
Anakin kneels next to her, concerned. He puts a hand on her shoulder.
Anakin
Padme…
She grabs him around the neck and kisses him.
Padme
I don’t want you to die, Anakin…
Anakin
(swallows hard)
I won’t, Padme, I—
But Anakin looks up again, The rebel flagship is now within the atmosphere. He stands up.
Anakin
But I have to do this.
Padme
Then I’m coming with you.
Anakin
Padme—
But she flashes him a look that he can’t argue with. He shakes his head as they both climb into the fighter. Padme squeezes into the space behind the pilot seat.
Anakin
This really isn’t a two-seater.
Padme
Just go avenge your father already.
Anakin grits his teeth. The cockpit closes. Then, with a blast of engine flame, the ship rockets towards The rebel flagship.
Scene 114
Maul adjusts some controls and the ship begins to
alter its course. The
Computer
Self-destruct in T-Minus 2 minutes.
Maul turns to exit the bridge, but at that moment,
Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan enter. They ignite their lightsabers. Maul laughs, his own
lightsaber doubly flaring to life. He kicks
Obi-Wan
Master, the
Qui-Gon
Focus, my young padawan.
Qui-Gon stares hard at Maul, Maul grins wickedly back. The Jedi and Maul clash together, their lightsabers flashing.
Scene 115 EXT. PALPATINE’S FLAGSHIP – SPACE – DAY
The NAVIGATOR turns from his controls with great concern. He looks to Palpatine.
Navigator
Sir, one of the Corellian Corvettes has broken from the
main Rebel group. It’s on a collision course with the
Palpatine
Range, lieutenant?
Navigator
It’s out of our range, sir. No ships on my sensors could possibly reach it in time!
Palpatine
What an unfortunate turn of events.
Navigator
Wait, sir! A Jedi Fighter is inbound toward the enemy ship!
Palpatine
(trying to seem pleased)
Well, isn’t that lucky.
Scene 116 INT. REBEL FLAGSHIP - DAY
The battle is ferocious. Maul is extremely skilled, though he seems evenly matched against both the Jedi at the same time.
The chaos of their fight begins destroying computer
terminals. One lightsaber slashes through the forward window, and the sudden
drop in pressure casts them all to the floor, struggling to avoid being sucked
out.
Unbeknownst to the Jedi, however, Maul has used the
Force to levitate
Obi-Wan cries out and falls to the floor, he has been winged near his hip. Qui-Gon’s attention is momentarily distracted and he looks to his apprentice.
Maul does not waste his opportunity. He leaps in, his blade slashing across Qui-Gon’s chest.
But the Jedi Master was still alert, and the blow does not kill him. However, he is badly wounded, a cauterized wound across his chest. He staggers back.
Maul advances, a look of triumph on his face.
Computer
Self-destruct in T-Minus 1 minute.
Scene 117 EXT. CORUSCANT AIRSPACE
Anakin and Padme’s ship flies headlong toward The rebel flagship. Anakin looks as determined as he did during the pod race. Padme is clearly concerned, but is putting on a brave face. She has opened a toolbox that is in the small rear compartment with her.
Anakin
Did you find it?
Padme
Yes.
The ship streaks straight toward the onrushing Corellian Corvette. Anakin brings the ship very close to the hull, so close we can briefly see Maul and the Jedi fighting in the bridge at the front of the ship. Anakin fires the ship’s forward lasers, blasting a hole in the hull atop the corvette. The fighter streaks past the corvette, then does a loop the loop to turn around. Anakin begins slowly passing the larger ship below them.
He grabs Padme around the waist, she hands him something from the toolbox.
Anakin
OK, then… here goes.
He punches a button… and the cockpit ejects. He and Padme, clinging to the seat, are launched into the air above the corvette. A parachute begins to fire from the cockpit chair. Anakin aims the device he’s holding, and launches a grappling hook at the hole he blasted moments before. The hook catches, and he and Padme jump from the chair and swing toward the hole.
Anakin brings in the line as they descend, and they swoop into the ship, only swinging in somewhat roughly, though both of them tumble into a wall.
Anakin
(rubbing his head in some pain)
Perfect.
Scene 118
The wounded Qui-Gon now fights Maul alone. Obi-Wan is
nearby, struggling to stand. His side is smoking from the blaster wound.
Through the shattered front window, the
Maul is gaining the upper hand. Qui-Gon begins faltering backward, on the defensive. Finally, with a mocking laugh of triumph, Maul’s ever-spinning blades strike home. The blow drives straight through his chest in a stab. The old Jedi grunts as Maul removes the lightsaber. He slumps to the floor.
Rage is in Obi-Wan’s face. He leaps to his feet.
Obi-Wan
Qui-Gon!!!
Maul is taken aback by the ferocity of the attack. He is momentarily driven back, pushed against the rear wall. Obi-Wan raises his blade for the kill.
But Maul is not down. His free hand shoots forward and Obi-Wan is caught in a Force Choke. Obi-Wan flies backward, levitating and clutching at his throat. Maul tightens the grip, but Obi-Wan’s own hand stretches toward Maul. The two are clearly in a test of wills.
The grip on Obi-Wan is noticeably loosened, he sinks towards the floor, Maul’s face contorted with effort. He raises his lightsaber to deal with the Jedi the old-fashioned way.
Anakin and Padme appear in the doorway. Anakin raises a blaster.
Anakin
You killed my father!
Anakin fires, Maul deflects it, but this pulls his attention away. Obi-Wan swings his lightsaber, it cuts through half of Maul’s saber, cutting the double lightsaber in two.
But the move is costly. Obi-Wan’s swing pulls him wide, and he is obviously still weak from his blaster wound. Maul catches his blade on Obi-Wan’s follow-through and disarms the Jedi. A blast of the Force tosses Obi-Wan to his back.
Maul steps forward, lightsaber raised for the kill.
Anakin bends down, picks up the severed half of Maul’s lightsaber.
Maul senses him, and turns. Anakin’s half of the red lightsaber ignites.
Maul
So… the traitor had a son.
Anakin
For my father.
Maul deflects the first attack, but Anakin is too ferocious. Maul’s hand is lopped off, and then his head. Padme stares in shock at the decapitated corpse. Obi-Wan stares at Anakin, whose face is a mix of shock and satisfaction.
Computer
Self-destruct in T-Minus 30 seconds.
Obi-Wan
(croak)
The
Anakin rushes to the control console, quickly keying in new commands.
Anakin
I can’t stop the self-destruct…
Padme
Send it into orbit!
Anakin keys it in.
Anakin
We have to go!
Obi-Wan crawls over to Qui-Gon.
Obi-Wan
Master…
Anakin and Padme notice Qui-Gon for the first time, hurry to his side.
Anakin
Is he—
Qui-Gon
(weak voice)
Go…
Anakin bends to hoist him up, leaning him on one shoulder. Padme helps Obi-Wan.
Anakin
We’re getting out of here. All of us.
Obi-Wan
The escape pods…
The computer has hit the last ten seconds. They reach the corridor.
Scene 119
The Rebel Flagship pulls up, just missing the
Seconds later, the ship spectacularly explodes.
Scene 120 INT. REBEL FRIGATE – SPACE – DAY
Ackbar stands on the bridge of his new command ship, haggard and weary, but stubbornly solid.
Ackbar
All ships retreat to the rendezvous point!
Scene 121 EXT. CORUSCANT AIRSPACE – SPACE – DAY
The Rebel fleet breaks off the attack and pulls away. The Republic attack vessels move to give chase, but the Trade Federation ships quickly jump to hyperspace.
Scene 122
The escape pod lands on the lawn outside the
Obi-Wan
Master Qui-Gon…
Qui-Gon
I’m sorry, Obi-Wan… Anakin…
(he breathes hard, obviously in pain)
Train him, Obi-Wan…
Obi-Wan
I will, master.
Qui-Gon
Anakin… bring… balance… to the Force.
Qui-Gon shudders, gasps, and dies. Obi-Wan closes his eyes. Padme and Anakin hold each other close. There are tears in Padme’s eyes. Anakin struggles to not shed his own.
Scene 123 INT. SENATE CHAMBERS – DAY
Palpatine, dressed in his very best, floats in the center of the chamber, a triumphant look on his face.
Palpatine
It is, with great humility, that I accept the vote of the people of this great Republic and take on the mantle of Chancellor.
He is applauded wildly.
Palpatine
But, at the end of this happy day, we cannot ignore the new crisis besetting our fair Republic. Not only does the Trade Federation rebellion still exist, but a new group of violent Separatists has formed, seeking to dismantle our government.
A SENATOR turns to Tarkin, who sits next to him.
Senator
Separatists? What does he mean?
Tarkin
I’m sure I have no idea…
Palpatine
Our volunteer army is not large enough to combat all these threats. As such, we have but one alternative.
(slowly fade out)
The cloning facilities of Kamino are widely praised for their knowledge and expertise…
Scene 124 INT. MON MOTHMA’S HOME – NIGHT
Mon Mothma, Bel Iblis, and Bail Organa are in comm chat with Ackbar.
Bel Iblis
The puppets of a Sith Lord?!
Ackbar
We have all been played like an instrument.
Mon Mothma
Perhaps so, but that does not mean our cause was unjust.
Bail Organa
What do you suggest?
Mon Mothma
The problems we had before still exist. We must not abandon our cause. Meldorn and General Antilles… would not want us too.
Bel Iblis
(glances at the paper announcing Palpatine’s victory)
Mon Mothma is right. To give up now would be like surrendering to the Sith.
Bail Organa
Then our efforts will continue.
Ackbar
The fleet will be kept safe.
Mon Mothma
On behalf of all of us, Admiral, thank you.
Ackbar
May the Force be with us all.
He winks out. The three conspirators look at each other, resolved to continue their fight.
Scene 125
Obi-Wan stands before the Jedi Masters. Anakin, Padme, R2, 3PO, and Shimia watch nearby.
Mace Windu
And so, Obi-Wan Kenobi, we are proud to present you the title of Jedi Knight and full membership in the order.
Obi-Wan
Thank you, Master Windu.
Yoda
Anakin Skywalker, step forward.
Anakin comes forward, trepidation in his face.
Yoda
Defiant, you are. Impetuous, too, hm?
Anakin swallows, he really can’t rebut this.
Yoda
Grateful are we, to welcome you to the Jedi, young padawan.
(he brings out a lightsaber, which he hands to Anakin)
May you always tread on the light side of the Force.
Anakin
(overcome)
Thank you…
Yoda turns to Obi-Wan, his face grave.
YOda
Ready for this challenge, are you?
Obi-Wan
I am ready, master.
Yoda
(to Anakin)
To master Kenobi listen, young Skywalker. His apprentice, you are now.
Anakin bows gratefully. Yoda turns to Mace Windu.
Mace Windu
One Sith slain, but we apparently cannot count on there being only two.
Yoda
The apprentice, it was, and powerful was he. The master, I worry to find. Another apprentice, there likely is.
Mace Windu
And this boy… we’re doing the right thing in training him?
Yoda
(watching Anakin)
That boy could be the key to victory…
(back to Mace Windu)
Hope, is all we can do.
Anakin, with Obi-Wan and Padme, test activates his lightsaber. He grins. He and Obi-Wan cross lightsabers in mock battle and both smile. Padme puts her hand on Anakin’s shoulder and he grins back at her. 3PO looks on proudly as R2 beeps excitedly.
Iris out to credits.