Files
startrek-ml/Data/Tng/162.txt

1 line
71 KiB
Plaintext
Executable File

STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"A Matter of Perspective"
#40273-162
Written by
Ed Zuckerman
Directed by
Cliff Bole
THE WRITING CREDITS MAY NOT BE FINAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED
FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING
WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT.
Copyright 1989 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.
FINAL DRAFT
NOVEMBER 27, 1989
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Perspective" - 11/27/89 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"A Matter of Perspective"
CAST
PICARD KRAG
RIKER APGAR
DATA MANUA
BEVERLY TAYNA
TROI
GEORDI
WORF
WESLEY
O'BRIEN
Non-Speaking
TWO ART STUDENTS
ENSIGN WILLIAMS
LIEUTENANT WRIGHT
NUDE FEMALE MODEL
NURSE
CREWWOMAN
SUPERNUMERARIES
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Perspective" - 11/27/89 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"A Matter of Perspective"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
MAIN BRIDGE
CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM SPACE STATION
CORRIDOR
TRANSPORTER ROOM
TURBOLIFT
SICKBAY
HOLODECK
HOLODECK
EMPTY
ART CLASS
SPACE STATION
SPACE STATION
LABORATORY
LIVING AREA
GUEST QUARTERS
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Perspective" - 11/30/89
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"A Matter of Perspective"
PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
APGAR AP-garr
DICOSILIUM dye-co-SIL-lee-uhm
MANUA MAN-you-ah
TANUGA TAN-ooh-guh
TANUGAN TAN-ooh-gun
TAYNA TAY-nah
EMILA em-EEL-ah
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/28/89 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"A Matter of Perspective"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 INT. HOLODECK/ART CLASS
Open on side view of painting canvas. PICARD'S hand
comes into picture from o.s. with paintbrush and works
on the as-yet-unseen painting. PULL BACK to reveal
PICARD sitting in an art class along with TWO
SUPERNUMERARIES. They are all painting something that
is presently o.s.
2 ANOTHER ANGLE
shows that the class is painting a NUDE FEMALE MODEL.
3 ON HOLODECK DOORS
The doors OPEN and DATA ENTERS. He walks over to
address Picard.
DATA
(sotto voce)
We have arrived at Tanuga Four,
Captain. The away team has
completed its survey of Doctor
Apgar's work and is ready to
return to the ship.
PICARD
(putting aside
paintbrush)
Good.
Data is curious about Picard's artwork and is trying
to get a better look at it when Picard notices his
interest.
PICARD (cont'd)
(gestures)
Please... and examine the work
of the other students as well.
Data moves in front of all three paintings as the other
students move aside.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/30/89 - TEASER 2.
4 DATA AT PICTURE #1
Woman with flowers.
DATA
Ensign Williams' striking style
is heavily influenced by geometric
constructivism.
Moving to...
4A DATA AT PICTURE #2
Woman with violin.
DATA
Lieutenant Wright has effectively
fused the incongruities of the
surrealists with the irrationality
of Dadaism.
Returning to...
5 PICARD'S PAINTING
Picard tries not to betray his feelings as Data
prepares to pronounce judgment.
DATA
Interesting.
PICARD
How so?
DATA
While suggesting the free
treatment of form usually
attributed to Fauvism, this quite
inappropriately attempts to
juxtapose the disparate cubistic
styles of Picasso and Leger. In
addition, the use of color
suggests a haphazard melange of
clashing styles.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/30/89 - TEASER 3.
5 CONTINUED:
DATA (Cont'd)
Furthermore, the unsettling
overtones of proto-Vulcan
influences...
Picard's features have become progressively clouded
during this speech and finally he's had enough.
PICARD
(strained)
Thank you... Mister Data.
DATA
You are welcome, sir. If I may
be of any further assistance --
PICARD
No... thank you.
Data turns and EXITS. Off Picards reaction...
5A ALTERNATE
Picard slowly walks toward his painting; picks up a
jar full of paint brushes, removes the brushes and
proceeds to throw the bright red liquid onto his
canvas.
6 OMITTED
7 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND SPACE STATION (OPTICAL)
The ship is in orbit around a planet along with a small
space station.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, Stardate 43610.4.
After completing a delivery of
dicosilium to the Tanuga Four
research station, our away team
is receiving an update from
Doctor Nel Apgar on his efforts
to create Krieger Waves, a
potentially valuable new power
source.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/28/89 - TEASER 3A.
8 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard and Data ENTER from the turbolift. WORF at
Tactical. GEORDI is at an Aft Science Station going
over some information on the console. Data goes to
Ops.
PICARD
Welcome back, Mister La Forge.
Where's Commander Riker?
And Geordi answers evenly, but there is a trace of
tension in his voice...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/28/89 - TEASER 4.
8 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
Still on the station, sir. Doctor
Apgar wanted a word with him.
Picard notices...
PICARD
Any problems... ?
Hesitating, this is really something Riker should tell
Picard about...
GEORDI
Not... with the scientific part
of the mission, sir...
Picard's curiosity is raised even further by Geordi's
evasiveness, but before he can pursue it, Riker's voice
breaks in over the com line.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
(a little stiffly)
Riker to Enterprise. I'm ready
to leave now.
Saved by the bell... to Picard's unspoken question --
GEORDI
I'm sure Commander Riker will
explain, sir...
What is going on, wonders Picard. As...
9 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM
O'BRIEN
Stand by, Commander. Engaging
transport.
O'BRIEN energizes the transporter console. Nothing
happens. O'Brien frowns at his console:
O'BRIEN
(to com panel)
Transporter Room to Engineering.
I have a power drain...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/4/89 - TEASER 5.
9A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
Near the space station... which suddenly EXPLODES.
10 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - ON PICARD AND MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAAL)
Picard is moving toward the command center. In the
b.g. the aftermath of the explosion is clearly visible
on the Main Viewer. Data at Ops. Supernumerary at
Conn.
PICARD
(urgently)
Transporter Room! Is Commander
Riker aboard?
11 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL)
O'Brien working furiously at the console.
O'BRIEN
Not yet, Captain. I'm having
trouble clearing the signal...
He continues to fight to bring Riker aboard. On the
transporter pad, the TRANSPORTER EFFECT shimmers,
weakens, shimmers again... finally RIKER begins to take
shape. The EFFECT ENDS and Riker steps off the pad.
O'BRIEN (cont'd)
Transporter Room to bridge. He's
aboard.
RIKER
You sound surprised, Mister
O'Brien...
O'BRIEN
For a moment, we weren't sure you
left the space station in time...
RIKER
In time for what... ?
O'BRIEN
It just exploded, sir.
On Riker's reaction --
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/28/89 - ACT ONE 6.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
12 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The ship is in orbit as before. The space station is
gone, but perhaps there is a faint cloud of particles
or debris left over from the explosion seen earlier.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, supplemental:
Commander Riker has informed me
that Doctor Apgar was the only
one aboard the space station when
it exploded. We remain in orbit
investigating the accident...
13 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard, Riker, Geordi... WESLEY is at Conn, Worf at
Tactical, Data at Ops...
O'BRIEN'S COM VOICE
I've gone through the whole
system, sir... I can't find any
malfunction in the transporter,
nothing that would cause an
explosion like that...
INTERCUT:
13A INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Why was there a power drain before
transport?
O'BRIEN
I don't know, Captain.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
I want an answer to that
question... I'm sure the Tanugans
will too...
O'BRIEN
Yessir.
END INTERCUT:
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/28/89 - ACT ONE 6A.
13B INT. MAIN BRIDGE
DATA
Captain, the radiation and debris
are consistent with an overload
of the station's reactor core.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/29/89 - ACT ONE 7.
13B CONTINUED:
Picard turns to Riker and Geordi...
PICARD
Any indications of reactor core
problems while you were on the
station?
GEORDI
No, sir.
Riker's brow is wrinkled... his mind is not in the
room. Picard notices...
PICARD
Number One... ?
Riker looks up, shakes his head, no.
PICARD
(to Riker)
Commander La Forge suggested this
was not an entirely routine
mission...
RIKER
(sighs)
It's a long story, Captain...
(beat)
... but I'm sure it doesn't have
anything to do with this accident.
His voice sounds uncertain.
WORF
Captain, Chief Investigator Krag
of the Tanugan security force
requests permission to beam
aboard.
Picard reacts, stares at Riker.
PICARD
Granted, Lieutenant, please escort
our guest to the bridge.
(beat)
...slowly.
WORF
Aye, sir.
Worf EXITS...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/28/89 - ACT ONE 7A.
13B CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
(to Riker)
Perhaps you should tell me as much
as possible prior to his arrival,
Number One.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/28/89 - ACT ONE 8.
13B CONTINUED: (3)
Riker sighs, acknowledges.
14
thru OMITTED
17
17A INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL)
As Inspector Krag MATERIALIZES. His curious eyes
examine his surroundings, study the Klingon who greets
him, and O'Brien behind the console.
WORF
I am Lieutenant Worf, head of
ship's security. I will take you
to the captain.
Krag nods and follows; he could be intimidated here,
away from his usual turf, but he isn't...
18 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
As before. Worf ENTERS from the turbolift along with
Krag. Geordi is at the science station. Data and
Wesley are at their accustomed stations. Krag is at
all times soft-spoken, calm, rather British in nature
(no accent)... qualities of the men of his race... but
also fine qualities for an investigator. He is also
quite relentless and determined to get to the truth.
PICARD
Chief Investigator, welcome to
the Enterprise. I'm Captain
Picard... my first officer,
Commander William Riker.
Krag all but ignores Picard at the mention of Riker's
name.
KRAG
Commander Riker, I am here to take
you into custody...
RIKER
On what charge?
KRAG
Suspicion of murder.
All over the bridge, heads turn in shock.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/29/89 - ACT ONE 9.
18 CONTINUED:
RIKER
(reacts)
Murder... now wait a minute...
PICARD
(interrupting)
Chief Investigator... we are more
than willing to cooperate fully
with you, but...
KRAG
Then you will release the prisoner
for transportation to the planet.
Picard holds up a hand: "just wait a second", realizes
the bridge is no place to have this discussion...
PICARD
(to Krag)
Why don't we discuss this in
private...
Indicating the way... Riker moves to join them, but
Picard, as his captain, looks him back with purpose...
PICARD
You have the bridge, Number One.
Riker is about to protest, but instead says nothing
and remains on the bridge as Picard and Krag EXIT into
the Ready Room. The rest of the bridge crew can't help
but steal glances at Riker.
19 INT. READY ROOM
Picard indicates a chair for Krag as he seats himself
at the desk. Krag remains standing and is waiting for
Picard to make the first move.
PICARD
Just what is your evidence against
my officer?
KRAG
Two witnesses have come forward
to describe Commander Riker's
threats against Doctor Apgar...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/28/89 - ACT ONE 10.
19 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Threats... ? I am aware of an
altercation between the two of
them...
KRAG
It apparently was much more than
just an altercation, Captain...
but he will have a chance to prove
his innocence...
PICARD
In our system of legal
jurisprudence, a man is innocent
until proved guilty.
KRAG
In ours, he is guilty until he
is proved innocent. And you are
in our jurisdiction. If I
understand the Federation
regulations on these matters, and
I just happened to look them up
before I...
PICARD
(interrupting)
I'm aware of the Federation
regulations, sir... and if you
will check further, they say the
captain will decide if extradition
is warranted...
KRAG
Are you saying it is not?
PICARD
I'm saying...
... backing off the conflict, knowing it does not help
matters.
PICARD
(continuing)
If I find that there is sufficient
cause to warrant a trial, I
will... release Commander Riker
to your custody.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/28/89 - ACT ONE 10A.
19 CONTINUED: (2)
KRAG
(thoughtful beat)
Would you say you're close to your
first officer, Captain?
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/29/89 - ACT ONE 11.
19 CONTINUED: (3)
PICARD
That's irrelevant here...
KRAG
Really, Captain, you cannot
believe that. And how can I
expect a fair and impartial
decision?
PICARD
I will protect the rights of my
officer...
KRAG
I appreciate that. But you'll
have to do it on the planet, not
here. After all, what if you were
suddenly to decide to leave this
star system... ?
PICARD
You have my word as an officer
of Starfleet that I will not.
KRAG
Unacceptable. You must turn him
over to me for interrogation.
PICARD
Interrogate him here.
KRAG
Captain, we must recreate
step-by-step, moment-by-moment,
the events leading to the
explosion... we need immediate
access to all the witnesses, as
well as the data from the lab's
ground computers. It would be
impossible to accomplish here.
A beat. Looking for a compromise --
PICARD
Perhaps not.
(keys insignia)
Mister Data, please report to my
Ready Room.
(to Krag)
In fact, I may be able to assist
you in recreating the events.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/28/89 - ACT ONE 11A.
19 CONTINUED: (4)
Data ENTERS.
PICARD
Commander Data, Chief Inspector
Krag.
They bow to each other... Krag looks curiously at the
android...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/29/89 - ACT ONE 12.
19 CONTINUED: (5)
PICARD
Data, by taking testimony from
both the away team and from
witnesses provided by Investigator
Krag, would it be possible to
program the Holodeck to recreate
what happened aboard the science
station?
DATA
It would require construction and
design specifications, full
orthographic representations of
the Krieger equipment, as well
as visual representations and
voice analyses of the persons
involved... but yes, it is
possible.
Krag considers this. Picard is clearly unmovable on
releasing Riker. He nods.
KRAG
Very well. Arrangements will be
made to provide you with all
available information. I shall
return shortly with our witnesses.
PICARD
Data, escort the chief inspector
to Transporter Room Three.
As they EXIT, stay on Picard a beat, see his frown as
he considers the situation...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/27/89 - ACT ONE 13.
20 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
As before. Riker is sitting in command and trying not
to throw glances at the Ready Room door. Picard ENTERS
from the Ready Room. TROI is now on the bridge.
PICARD
Mister La Forge, Ensign Crusher,
we are going to recreate the
research station on the Holodeck.
I want you to work with Mister
Data on the preparations. In
addition, Mister La Forge, you
and Commander Riker will give the
computer detailed depositions on
everything you heard and saw while
aboard. Counselor, you will
assist me during this inquiry.
Picard pauses for a second as he considers the impact
of his next words on his trusted first officer.
PICARD (cont'd)
(quiet yet firm)
My decision on extradition will
be based upon the evidence
presented in these re-creations.
Riker can't really believe all this is happening, but
Picard's expression is set.
RIKER
Captain, may I have a word with
you?
PICARD
Under these circumstances, I
believe it would be inappropriate,
Number One.
Picard exits. PUSH IN on Riker's reaction...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/3/89 - ACT TWO 14-14A.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
20A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
As before.
DATA (V.O.)
Second officer's log, Stardate
43611.6. Programming of the
Holodeck has taken eighteen hours
and is now complete.
21 INT. CORRIDOR
as Picard, Riker, Troi, and Krag approach the Holodeck
doors.
DATA (V.O.)
All participants have entered
their depositions. Technical
schematics, and complete records
from the lab's ground computers,
as well as Doctor Apgar's personal
logs, have been included. The
recreation has a nominal
eight-point-seven percent margin
of error.
The participants ENTER the Holodeck.
22 INT. HOLODECK/SPACE STATION LABORATORY (OPTICAL)
This is the main laboratory of the space station. The
walls are lined with consoles, readouts, and computer
equipment, most of which is inactive at the moment.
Dominating the room is a large array of energy-focusing
condensers, field coils, refractors, and so forth.
Nearby is a medium-sized power reactor.
Picard and Krag step into the center of the simulation.
Picard nods approval. Even the normally poker-faced
Krag is impressed.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/3/89 - ACT TWO 15.
22 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
Is there anything you'd like to
say before we begin, Number One?
To Krag --
RIKER
Just this. I'm not a murderer.
I went to the Tanugan lab as an
official representative of
Starfleet. And I acted
accordingly. I was there to
evaluate Apgar's progress on
development of a Krieger Wave
converter. That's all I was
interested in. Computer. Load
deposition program, Riker One.
23 ANGLE ON THE LAB (OPTICAL)
The holograms of APGAR and TAYNA APPEAR, frozen in
position.
Apgar is male, older than Riker, cold, intelligent,
antisocial... and like Krag, he is soft-spoken,
reserved. Tayna is female, early twenties, the
deferential assistant.
RIKER
Run the simulation.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/3/89 - ACT TWO 16.
24 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
The Apgar and Tayna holograms "come to life" just as
(holograms of) Geordi, and Riker MATERIALIZE in the lab
(the away team beaming onto the station). (It's
important to note that in Riker's presentation of the
story, he is extremely business-like, almost flat in
character... he is not as charming or personable as
we know he can be. Nevertheless, for him, this is the
truth.)
RIKER
Doctor Apgar? I'm Commander
William Riker; Lieutenant
Commander Geordi La Forge.
Apgar's making an effort to be polite, but he's plainly
less than overjoyed to see them. And impatient to get
it over with.
APGAR
My assistant Tayna... well, let's
get on with it, shall we?
From off camera, heads turning to the voice of --
MANUA (O.S.)
Don't be in such a hurry, dear...
24A ANGLE - MANUA
entering... and it's a moment... like that first look
that Bacall gave Bogart in "To Have and Have Not", she
gives that look to Riker... female, thirties, strong,
outgoing -- she takes your breath away. But Riker's
hologram is quite unmoved.
MANUA
(continuing)
Perhaps our guests would like some
refreshment...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/3/89 - ACT TWO 17.
24A CONTINUED:
She moves to Riker, looks him in the eyes...
APGAR
My wife, Manua...
RIKER
(pleasant but routine)
Pleasure to meet you, Mrs.
Apgar.
His attention is on Apgar...
RIKER
Doctor, if you're prepared to get
started, so are we...
APGAR
(defensive)
Prepared? Of course I'm
prepared...
RIKER
(reacts)
All right... then why don't you
give me the overview of your
research while Mister La Forge
and your assistant look at the
experimental data...
APGAR
Fine. Whatever. I must say,
Commander, I resent your early
arrival. Starfleet will get its
converter... I've had a few
setbacks, that's all...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/4/89 - ACT TWO 17A.
24A CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER
(sympathetic)
Doctor, we're not here to pressure
you, we just want an update on
your progress.
Apgar grunts, disbelieving. Riker glances toward --
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/3/89 - ACT TWO 18.
24B ANGLE - MANUA
revealing she is bored beyond description, leaning
languidly against a counter with her elbows back,
supporting her and her chest thrust out rather
invitingly, her eyes undress Riker.
APGAR
Tayna -- show the commander's
assistant whatever he wants to
see. Give him full access to our
records.
TAYNA
(to Geordi)
If you'll come with me...
Tayna leads Geordi over to the other side of the lab,
shows him the large array of condensers.
TAYNA
Our Lambda Field generator is on
the planet since it requires a
minimum of five thousand kilometers
for the field to collimate.
... And out of earshot.
25 ON MANUA
turning to Riker and smiling warmly.
MANUA
(to her husband)
Really, darling, you're being
rude... after all, Commander Riker
is willing to sit through all your
prattle about Krieger Waves...
Apgar bristles at his wife's digs... she takes Riker's
arm... and Riker is embarrassed for Apgar, but it would
be extraordinarily awkward for him to throw down her
arm now that she has it...
MANUA
Commander, let me get you a
drink... and we'll hear all about
Krieger Waves...
And Riker is clearly uncomfortable as she leads him
to another room... Apgar follows as they exit.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/30/89 - ACT TWO 19.
26 INT. HOLODECK/SPACE STATION LIVING AREA
CLOSE on champagne being poured into three flutes.
WIDEN to reveal Manua doing the pouring. Riker and
Apgar are seated. Manua hands a glass to Riker; as
Riker takes it, their hands touch. Manua smiles.
Almost as an afterthought, she hands Apgar his glass.
Riker raises his glass in a friendly toast:
RIKER
To your success, Doctor.
MANUA
(pointed)
... and the rewards that come
with it.
Apgar scowls, makes a point of not joining in their
toast. Apgar gets down to business, states his
grievances:
APGAR
Riker -- what is Starfleet doing
here anyway? My delivery wasn't
scheduled for another three
months.
RIKER
Actually, we're in this sector
on another mission... and you had
asked Starfleet for additional
dicosilium.... it seemed like a
good opportunity.
MANUA
How interesting. Tell us about
this other mission.
As though she's interested in anything other than her
husband's work.
RIKER
It's just a study of a proto-star
cloud. The Enterprise will be
returning tomorrow.
APGAR
(even less pleased)
The Enterprise just left you here?
Riker can't understand why Apgar has such a negative
attitude. He tries to placate Apgar:
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/1/89 - ACT TWO 20.
26 CONTINUED:
RIKER
We have no wish to inconvenience
you. We've arranged for quarters
on the planet...
MANUA
(smoothly)
I won't hear of such a thing.
Commander, I insist you and Mister
La Forge stay with us.
Again the inviting smile from Manua. Apgar protests:
APGAR
I hardly think --
MANUA
(to Apgar, firm)
I know you'd prefer to be alone
with your important work... but
I, for one, am glad for the
company.
Apgar sullenly clams up. Manua beams at Riker.
MANUA
Good.
(a beat)
I must apologize for my husband's
lack of social graces. He may
be one of the great scientific
minds in the galaxy... but he
does come up a bit short in other
areas.
Riker doesn't know what to say to that, takes a sip
of champagne.
27 WIDER ANGLE
to reveal Picard, Troi, Krag, and Riker watching the
holograms of Manua, Apgar, and Riker in the b.g.
KRAG
Stop.
PICARD
computer -- freeze program.
The holograms freeze in their tracks. Krag turns to
the real Riker:
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/4/89 - ACT TWO 21.
27 CONTINUED:
KRAG
Then it's your testimony that it
was Mrs. Apgar's idea for you
to spend the night aboard the
station.
RIKER
It's my testimony... and it's the
truth.
Krag nods noncommittally.
PICARD
Resume program.
28 OMITTED
29 INT. HOLODECK/SPACE STATION GUEST QUARTERS (OPTICAL))
The door OPENS; Manua and Riker ENTER the tight
quarters. A bed which has been decorated with a
definite feminine touch.
MANUA
Our guest quarters aren't
luxurious... but I've tried to
make this room warm... and
inviting.
RIKER
I'll be very comfortable, thank
you. Good night.
But she doesn't leave...
MANUA
The environmental controls are
here...
Manua brushes past Riker to show him the controls -- no
"accident."
RIKER
I'm sure I can find everything
I need.
MANUA
And the door shuts by touching
this panel.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/28/89 - ACT TWO 22.
29 CONTINUED:
It closes.
RIKER
Mrs. Apgar...
MANUA
This is my sanctuary. Privacy
is very important on a small
station. I'm left alone here...
... often for hours.
She looks directly at Riker -- Riker ignores her
meaning.
RIKER
It's late. And I'm tired.
Manua lets her garment fall off her shoulders. She is
wearing a sexy undergarment.
MANUA
Are you still tired, Commander?
Riker quickly reaches for her garment...
RIKER
Ma'am, excuse me, but I really
think you ought to leave...
And as he puts it back over her shoulders... his arms
around her --
30 ON THE DOOR
as it OPENS to REVEAL Apgar. Seeing Riker's arms
around his wife, he snaps:
APGAR
(to his wife)
I knew I'd find you with him.
Did you think I didn't notice
how you looked at him? I'm not
the fool you take me for...
RIKER
Doctor...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/29/89 - ACT TWO 22A.
31 NEW ANGLE
Apgar slaps his wife hard across the cheek, she cries
out, Riker is forced to intervene... Apgar takes a
swing at him. Riker deflects the punch harmlessly.
Apgar loses his balance and falls.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/3/89 - ACT TWO 23.
31 CONTINUED:
Apgar stares at Riker with hatred and embarrassment.
RIKER
Doctor, believe me, this is all
a terrible mistake...
Apgar scrambles to his feet and as he storms out of
the room he says --
APGAR
(to Riker)
You won't get away with this.
I'll see to it. I swear I will,
Riker.
He EXITS... Manua in tears, rushes out after him
without even a glance at Riker. The hologram program
ends with Riker alone in the room.
RIKER (O.S.)
Freeze program.
Riker's hologram FREEZES.
32 ANGLE ON RIKER (OPTICAL)
RIKER
I didn't see Doctor Apgar again
until the following morning when
he asked to see me alone.
Commander La Forge returned to
the Enterprise...
(a beat)
Resume program.
An over the shoulder shot establishing our people
watching.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/30/89 - ACT TWO 24.
33 ANGLE ON HOLODECK/SPACE STATION LABORATORY
The holograms of Riker and Apgar stand in the main
laboratory area.
APGAR
(fuming)
I suppose if I make a formal
complaint, your report on my work
won't be very good...
RIKER
Doctor, this will have no impact
on my report. It was a
misunderstanding of the worst
kind... and I feel I could
straighten it out if you would
ask Mrs. Apgar to join us...
APGAR
(curtly)
My wife and my assistant have
transported down to the planet.
Apgar is a man under a great strain, looks away, shakes
his head, then looks back at Riker. He can't let Riker
leave without knowing where he stands...
APGAR
What are you going to put in your
report, Riker? That there's no
justification for all the extra
dicosilium I've requested? That
is why they sent you early, isn't
it?
RIKER
Doctor...
APGAR
(too earnest)
I can explain why I needed it.
They have no idea what my problems
are... there are explanations for
all of it...
RIKER
(interrupts)
I don't need explanations.
A moment as they study each other. Apgar seems to
understand where he stands now.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/3/89 - ACT TWO 24A.
33 CONTINUED:
APGAR
Then we have nothing further to
say to each other.
RIKER
(nods, he tried)
I will tell my captain to expect
your grievance.
APGAR
Do that.
Apgar seats himself at a console begins to work,
entering commands. Riker taps his insignia...
RIKER
Riker to Enterprise. I'm ready
to leave now.
O'BRIEN'S COM VOICE
Stand by, Commander. Engaging
transport.
34
thru OMITTED
38
38A ANGLE - INCLUDE THE GALLERY
RIKER
Freeze program.
As Apgar looks up one last time at Riker, it freezes.
RIKER (cont'd)
And then I returned to the
Enterprise...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/4/89 - ACT TWO 25.
38A CONTINUED:
KRAG
And there's nothing you'd like to
add... about firing a phaser,
Commander?
RIKER
I fired no phaser aboard the
science station.
Krag's eyes look perplexed.
KRAG
That's very odd, Commander. Very
odd. Captain Picard, isn't it
true that your sensors picked up
a power drain just before
transport?
PICARD
That is correct.
KRAG
Have you been able to explain it?
PICARD
Not to my knowledge.
KRAG
(nods)
We have. Our readings are quite
clear about it. Information
retrieved from the lab's ground
computers show that a focused
energy pulse was fired just as
Commander Riker began transport.
Furthermore, by analyzing the
trajectory and angle, it is clear
that it came from the very spot
that Commander Riker was standing.
In short, allow me to show you
my own recreation of the end of
this story, a speculation if you
will... computer, play
hypothetical Krag One.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/29/89 - ACT TWO 26.
39 ANGLE ON HOLODECK/SPACE STATION LABORATORY (OPTICAL)
The holograms of Apgar and Riker VANISH, and reappear
in the positions just prior to Riker's departure.
Riker taps his insignia...
RIKER
Riker to Enterprise. I'm ready
to leave now.
O'BRIEN'S COM VOICE
Stand by, Commander. Engaging
transport.
Just before the dematerialization effect begins on the
hologram of Riker, he takes out his phaser and aims
it behind Apgar. Riker FIRES the phaser at the reactor
--
KRAG
Freeze program...
Program freezes.
KRAG (cont'd)
Three seconds later the station
exploded.
39A ANGLE - RIKER
reacts as we:
40
thru OMITTED
41
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/28/89 - ACT THREE 27.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
41A INT. MAIN BRIDGE (FORMERLY SCENE 45)
Data, Geordi and Wesley are gathered around Science
One looking at monitors displaying information. Worf
is at Tactical. Supernumeraries at Conn and Ops.
GEORDI
No question about it, the Tanugans
are right... something was fired
at the reactor core just before
transport...
DATA
The energy signature would seem
to indicate a phaser-like blast...
WESLEY
(strong)
Well, it wasn't the commander's
phaser. It couldn't be. There's
gotta be another answer... we're
just not seeing it yet...
DATA
Was there anything else in the
lab capable of creating this kind
of energy discharge... ?
GEORDI
Nothing I saw. And besides, how
do you explain that it came from
Commander's Riker's exact
position...
(beat)
Dammit, I should have stayed with
him...
A small alarm goes off on Worf's console. He reacts.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/29/89 - ACT THREE 28.
41A CONTINUED:
WORF
Sensors indicate a radiation burst
on Deck Thirty-Nine. Outside
Cargo Bay Twelve.
DATA
Source?
WORF
Unknown.
DATA
Computer identify type of
radiation.
COMPUTER
Emission is not consistent with
any known radiation.
WORF
It is subsiding, sir.
They all exchange glances.
41B ANGLE ON - WALL (FORMERLY SCENE 46)
A section of wall about the size of a quarter has
melted. A tricorder is run across the spot. Pull back
to reveal --
41C INT. CORRIDOR (FORMERLY SCENE 47)
Geordi, and Wesley in the deserted corridor, checking
tricorder readings.
WESLEY
Make any sense to you?
GEORDI
(using the VISOR)
I don't recognize it. Even the
main deflector doesn't put out
that kind of spillage.
WESLEY
Where would it be coming from...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/30/89 - ACT THREE 29.
41C CONTINUED:
GEORDI
I don't know, Wesley... but
whatever it is, it's capable of
putting a hole in solid duranium.
Off Wesley's reaction...
42 INT. HOLODECK/SPACE STATION LABORATORY (OPTICAL)
The Holodeck doors open to reveal Krag escorting in
Manua. She reacts, stops as she sees the lab
recreation. She is as beautiful as Riker described,
but is dressed quite conservatively and does not ooze
sensuality. She is in fact a grieving widow.
43 OMITTED
44 ANOTHER ANGLE - THE GALLERY
As she comes over --
KRAG
In a sense we've all met Mrs.
Apgar, so shall we dispense with
the introductions?
But Manua is ignoring him. Her attention is riveted on
Riker. Riker half-rises from his chair...
PICARD
(holding up a hand)
Mrs. Apgar, do you understand
the purpose of this hearing?
She nods.
TROI
We understand how difficult this
will be for you. If you need a
recess, please don't hesitate to
ask.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/28/89 - ACT THREE 30.
44 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Would you like to make a statement
before we begin?
MANUA
(unprepared)
No. I just know he did it. He
killed my husband.
Riker reacts...
KRAG
Load Manua Simulation One.
45
thru OMITTED
47
48 INT. HOLODECK/SPACE STATION LIVING ROOM (OPTICAL)
The witness, the accused and the observers at the
table. Frozen on stage is Manua and Apgar alone...
heading through the living area... she is straightening
out his tie (or whatever accessory is appropriate)...
48A MANUA
visibly gasps at this sight. Krag studies her, decides
she's ready to proceed.
KRAG
Run program.
49 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
The figures unfreeze... and Manua continues to adjust
her husband's appearance, brushing off his suit, etc...
he is impatient, bitter and defeated. As she speaks
she punctuates her words with encouraging little
touches to his hand, cheek, etc.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/3/89 - ACT THREE 31.
49 CONTINUED:
MANUA
If you greet them with such a long
face they're going to assume
something is wrong with the
experiment.
APGAR
I just need time... A little more
time.
MANUA
(smiles at him)
I'm certain they'll give you the
time you need if you just show
a little charm.
APGAR
(kisses her lightly)
You do that so much better than
I.
He catches her as she starts to walk away.
APGAR (cont'd)
Manua, someday I'll be able to
reward you... for all your
patience. I'll get you everything
you ever dreamed of.
MANUA
I have all the reward I need.
Manua smiles at him, a warm, loving glance. This is
a very supportive woman who's charming and in love with
life.
MANUA (cont'd)
Go on, I'll be right in...
He EXITS and she takes a deep breath, smiles a hopeful
smile to herself... and as she takes a beat to look
in a mirror and adjust her hair... from the other room,
we can hear the materialization sound... and...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/3/89 - ACT THREE 32.
49 CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER (O.S.)
Doctor Apgar? I'm Commander
William Riker; Lieutenant
Commander Geordi La Forge.
She moves toward the door...
APGAR (O.S.)
My assistant Tayna... well, let's
get on with it, shall we?
49A INT. HOLODECK/SPACE STATION LABORATORY
MANUA ENTERS.
MANUA
Don't be in such a hurry, dear.
Perhaps our guests would like some
refreshment...
APGAR
My wife, Manua...
And she is Donna Reed here... the happy homemaker...
but still there is that moment... because now Riker
gives her that look... the look that John Garfield gave
Lana Turner in "The Postman Always Rings Twice"... and
she feels it and is immediately uncomfortable...
RIKER
(warm)
It's a... pleasure... to meet you,
Manua.
(And it's important to note that in this take on the
story, Riker's attitude is less aloof and formal. He's
relaxed and charming. In fact, in some ways he is more
like the Riker we know and love.)
APGAR
I'm anxious to get started...
Reluctantly, bringing back his attention to Apgar --
RIKER
If you wish.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/29/89 - ACT THREE 32A.
49A CONTINUED:
APGAR
I must say I resent your early
arrival, Commander... I have much
work to do...
RIKER
I'll try to make this as painless
as possible. For both of us.
(smiles to Manua)
Do you assist your husband in his
work?
MANUA
Oh, dear, no. I'm no scientist.
RIKER
Frankly, neither am I.
MANUA
(uncomfortable)
But I find this all fascinating,
don't you?
Riker grins as though they share a secret boredom.
RIKER
Mister La Forge, why don't you
go over the doctor's experimental
data...
(to Apgar)
Later on, you can give me an
overview...
APGAR
(defensive)
Fine. Whatever. Starfleet will
get its Krieger Wave converter...
These things take time. I've had
a few setbacks, that's all...
Manua gives Apgar a warning glance... don't be rude,
dear. Apgar pulls it in...
RIKER
Doctor, I'm not here to put
pressure on you.
And this is said to Manua --
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/3/89 - ACT THREE 33.
49A CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER
(continuing)
I'm sure my report will only
underscore the need for continued
support of your research.
And as nice as that sounds, the fact that it is said
to Manua could carry with it a tinge of sexual
leverage. Apgar grunts, disbelieving... moving away
with Geordi and Tayna --
APGAR
Tayna, I'll call up the records...
show the commander's assistant
whatever he wants to see.
TAYNA
(to Geordi)
If you'll come with me...
(moving across the lab)
Our field generator is on the
planet, since it requires a
minimum of five thousand
kilometers for the field to
collimate.
Manua suddenly finds herself alone with Riker and his
eyes are undressing her... their eyes meet, she quickly
moves to her husband at a computer bank...
MANUA
Darling, let Tayna take care of
that... I'm sure Commander Riker
wants to hear how close you are
to a breakthrough...
And it's her husband's arm she takes...
MANUA
I'll make the two of you a drink
and you can talk all about Krieger
Waves...
And she leads them out...
50 INT. HOLODECK/SPACE STATION LIVING AREA
Manua handing a glass of champagne to Riker who is
standing close at her side. She crosses to her
husband, who is seated on the couch, and gives him a
glass.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/3/89 - ACT THREE 34.
50 CONTINUED:
APGAR
To success.
RIKER
(glance to Manua)
Success.
They drink. Manua looks at Apgar with encouraging
eyes. Apgar gets the message, clears his throat...
APGAR
Well, in a way, I suppose it's
good you're early. Manua's right
-- it gives me a chance to show
you the progress we've been
making.
Riker is paying no to attention to the babbling
scientist. He is watching Manua.
RIKER
I'd appreciate it if Commander
La Forge and I could stay here
until the Enterprise returns.
MANUA
(uncomfortable)
It's a little inconvenient --
RIKER
It might help accelerate the
process...
Apgar feels the pressure...
APGAR
If you wish, Commander...
Apgar stands, and begins to pace as he warms to his
topic.
APGAR
Now, where shall I start... well,
first of all, you should know that
I'm very close to being able to
collimate a Krieger field...
Manua looks up from an abstracted study of her glass,
and finds Riker staring at her intently. A long beat
as they stare at each other.
CUT TO:
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/4/89 - ACT THREE 35.
51 INT. HOLODECK/SPACE STATION - GUEST QUARTERS
(OPTICAL)
Riker is surveying the tiny room. Manua, who stands
behind him, and very close to the door, is
uncomfortable.
RIKER
Very... charming.
(smiles at her)
It has your touch.
MANUA
(embarrassed)
The station is very small, and
we don't often have guests. So
I use this as my sanctuary.
RIKER
Who do you need sanctuary from?
She smiles off the question uncomfortably...
MANUA
The environmental controls are
here...
While she is talking Riker moves to the control panel
and CLOSES the door, blocks the exit. Manua starts,
and looks back at him.
MANUA
Commander... it's late and I'm
tired.
RIKER
A husband more interested in
Krieger Waves than in a woman like
you... how is it possible...
MANUA
(angry)
My husband is one of the great
minds in the galaxy... and we love
each other very much...
She moves toward the door but he stops her, puts his
hands on her shoulders...
MANUA
(softly pleading)
Please... don't...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/4/89 - ACT THREE 35A.
51 CONTINUED:
RIKER
It must get very lonely for you
up here... a princess in a very
high tower...
MANUA
My husband will be looking for
me...
RIKER
Your sanctuary, remember... ?
He slips the garment over her shoulders... she covers
herself...
RIKER (O.S.)
She's lying... this never
happened...
PICARD (O.S.)
Freeze program...
It freezes.
51A ANOTHER ANGLE - THE WATCHERS (OPTICAL)
As Riker can't take this anymore, and he stands.
RIKER
Captain, you know I would never
act like this.
PICARD
Commander Riker...
He crosses into the Holodeck quarters, goes up to his
image.
RIKER (cont'd)
This isn't me. I wasn't the one
who closed the door... I didn't
proposition her... I certainly
didn't try to rape her...
(turning to Manua)
Why are you doing this?
Manua reacts...
MANUA
It's exactly what happened...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/28/89 - ACT THREE 35B.
51A CONTINUED:
Troi moves out to Riker...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/3/89 - ACT THREE 36.
51A CONTINUED: (2)
Riker looks again at the frozen image...
TROI
Come on, Will. Sit down.
Riker returns to the table. Krag watches it all
curiously.
KRAG
Resume program.
51B INT. HOLODECK/SPACE STATION
GUEST QUARTERS (OPTICAL) (FORMERLY SCENE 51A)
The door OPENS to REVEAL Apgar. Seeing his wife in
Riker's arms he snaps:
APGAR
(to Riker)
I knew you'd try this, Riker.
Do you think I didn't notice how
you looked at her? I'm not the
fool you take me for...
In a rage he rushes Riker. Riker blocks Apgar's wild
punch, and follows with two hard jabs to the
scientist's gut. Apgar doubles over, and falls to the
floor. Manua runs to her husband, and drops down
protectively at his side.
APGAR
You won't get away with this.
Your career is over. I'll see
to it. I swear I will, Riker.
RIKER
(threatening)
If you report this, you'll be
making a terrible mistake, Doctor.
A terrible mistake.
Manua is terrified of Riker. She gets Apgar to his
feet, and helps him from the room.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/1/89 - ACT THREE 37.
52 OMITTED
53 ANGLE ON - KRAG (OPTICAL)
in the gallery.
KRAG
Freeze program.
MANUA
(to Riker)
Your career was safe. He was a
scientist. In another day some
fascinating bit of technical
trivia would have distracted him.
He would have forgotten about you
and his complaint to Starfleet.
Riker reacts.
MANUA (cont'd)
(she begins to cry)
Excuse me.
She heads for the Holodeck doors, followed by Krag.
Picard is deeply troubled by the charges... not that
he believes them, but the mounting evidence is forcing
him to see extradition may be unavoidable. After a
beat, he glances at Troi and Riker... softly --
PICARD
We'll, uh... take a short recess.
Picard EXITS. Troi and Riker are alone. Riker is
stunned.
RIKER
Why would she lie like that... ?
Troi doesn't immediately answer... in fact, she's
uncomfortable with what she's feeling and he notices
it.
RIKER
She was lying. You must have felt
it.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/30/89 - ACT THREE 38.
53 CONTINUED:
TROI
Will, I sensed no deception from
her...
RIKER
(reacts)
Then you must think that I...
TROI
No, of course not. I know you.
You don't have to convince me of
anything.
RIKER
We can't both be telling the
truth.
TROI
It is the truth... as you each
remember it.
Riker tries to lighten the mood, but there is an
undercurrent of seriousness and truth to his words.
RIKER
Yes, but her version is going to
put a noose around my neck.
Off Troi's reaction.
CUT TO:
54 OMITTED
55 INT. SICKBAY
Beverly, assisted by a NURSE, is examining a
CREWWOMAN'S arm.
BEVERLY
This is healing beautifully. I
think you can begin to work on
strengthening these muscles
again...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/30/89 - ACT THREE 39.
55 CONTINUED:
WORF'S COM VOICE
Security to Doctor Crusher...
evacuate, repeat evacuate...
radiation emissions are indicated
in Sickbay...
55A ANGLE (OPTICAL)
As Beverly guides the others out, move to find the
wall is melting...
55B
thru OMITTED
56
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/29/89 - ACT FOUR 40.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
57 INT. SICKBAY
Geordi and Wesley are examining the melted spot in the
wall, (which is about the size of a basketball) with
tricorders. Picard, Riker, and Beverly are listening
to Data's report.
DATA
It is definitely the same
radiation that penetrated deck
thirty-nine... highly focused,
very powerful... but of unknown
origin.
GEORDI
If this should happen in the
engine core or the anti-matter
containment tanks, we'll be in
trouble, Captain...
PICARD
Do you have any theories?
WESLEY
Data noticed something too strange
to be a coincidence...
DATA
The two radiation events aboard
the Enterprise occurred five hours,
twenty minutes and three seconds
apart. The science station
exploded yesterday at almost
exactly four times that interval.
WESLEY
There's a point-zero-zero-one-four
second variance we haven't been
able to explain yet.
RIKER
(reacts)
Are you saying there's a
connection between the radiation
bursts and the explosion?
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/29/89 - ACT FOUR 41.
57 CONTINUED:
DATA
We do not have the evidence to
support that conclusion at this
time, Commander.
He glances at Picard...
BEVERLY
If they're right, we should be
able to predict the next event...
GEORDI
We expect it in just over five
hours.
PICARD
Take every precaution you can to
protect the ship's vital areas...
if you haven't identified the
source before the time interval
is up, we will leave orbit. If you
perceive any further danger,
advise me immediately.
He leaves... Riker gives his colleagues a look that
says my life may be in your hands...
WESLEY
We'll figure it out, Commander.
Riker nods with silent appreciation, moves quickly off
to join the captain...
58 INT. TURBOLIFT
Picard is already inside as Riker ENTERS.
PICARD
Deck eleven.
They begin to move. Riker glances at Picard... thinks
for a second, and then...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/28/89 - ACT FOUR 42.
58 CONTINUED:
RIKER
(to computer)
Halt.
Turbolift STOPS. Picard looks at Riker with surprise.
PICARD
(about to warn Riker)
Number One...
RIKER
I'm not going to try to influence
your decision, Captain. I know
you may have to turn me over to
Krag. I can accept that.
PICARD
It hasn't come to that yet.
RIKER
But it might... and it's more
important to me that you know I
didn't do it.
Picard's looks at his first officer. Lets his guard
down. Not serious --
PICARD
If you could just keep your
trousers buckled... things like
this wouldn't happen to you...
RIKER
(not realizing he's
joking)
I never even gave her a second
glance...
PICARD
Number One, even I gave her a
second glance.
Picard gives him a half grin... and Riker relaxes...
PICARD
Did I ever tell you about the
mayor's wife in Brussels...
RIKER
The one who collected Starfleet
cadets...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/28/89 - ACT FOUR 42A.
58 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
I did tell you...
RIKER
No, you didn't...
Picard does a take. Not you too...
RIKER
Brussels is lovely this time of
the year. Isn't it?
Picard and Riker nod in unison.
RIKER
All things considered right now,
I'd rather be in Brussels.
PICARD
As would I, Number One. As would
I.
A long beat. Picard searches for the right thing to
say without looking at him.
PICARD
Will, giving you to them would
be like handing over a part of
myself.
Riker gives Picard a long look until Picard is so
uncomfortable that he must ends this...
PICARD
(to computer)
Resume.
Hold a beat as they don't look at each other.
59 INT. HOLODECK/SPACE STATION LABORATORY
Close on Tayna while Picard, Riker, Krag and Troi look
on.
TAYNA
After the... the fight, Doctor
Apgar came to find me... he was
very upset...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/30/89 - ACT FOUR 43-45.
59 CONTINUED:
KRAG
And he told you what happened?
TAYNA
Yes, he told me everything that
happened...
KRAG
(to Picard)
Based on Tayna's deposition, we
have reconstructed the incident
in Commander Riker's quarters as
Doctor Apgar described it to
her... computer...
PICARD
(interrupting)
Inspector, this is hearsay...
She wasn't a witness to this
incident...
KRAG
Doctor Apgar is dead. Tayna's
statement is admissible under
Tanugan law... and I insist you
consider it.
PICARD
(beat, frowns)
We will... watch this evidence.
And I will weigh it accordingly.
Krag moves out of the lab.
KRAG
Computer, run Tayna Simulation
Three.
60
thru OMITTED
63
64 INT. HOLODECK/SPACE STATION GUEST QUARTERS -
(OPTICAL)
As the door opens to reveal Apgar, we can see Riker
and Manua in the same basic position that they have
been in the other flashbacks... her dress is off,
Riker's arms around her... here, though, they are
fully embracing in a passionate kiss, both on fire...
they react as...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/3/89 - ACT FOUR 46.
64A OMITTED
64B NEW ANGLE - APGAR
in a rage...
APGAR
I knew I'd find the two of you
together. Do you think I didn't
notice how you were looking at
each other? I'm not the fool you
take me for...
Apgar moves quickly at Riker... Riker throws a wild
PUNCH at Apgar, who quickly ducks out of the way.
Apgar smoothly moves under Riker's swing and sends him
to the ground with a flurry several quick PUNCHES to
Riker's stomach and jaw.
APGAR
I'm going to report this, Riker.
You can count on that.
From the floor --
RIKER
You're a dead man, Apgar. A dead
man.
64C ON RIKER IN THE GALLERY
shaking his head...
KRAG (O.S.)
Freeze program.
Program freezes.
64D ANGLE - THE GALLERY
KRAG
And then Doctor Apgar came to find
you...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/30/89 - ACT FOUR 47.
64D CONTINUED:
KRAG
Run Tayna Simulation Four.
65 INT. HOLODECK/SPACE STATION LAB (OPTICAL)
Apgar and Tayna are alone in the lab. Apgar is very
distraught and upset.
APGAR
I want you to take Manua and beam
down to Tanuga immediately.
TAYNA
Doctor, if he threatened you, you
shouldn't stay...
APGAR
I'm not leaving him here alone.
He's capable of anything. I've
got to protect our work...
TAYNA
I'll contact the authorities.
Apgar thinks about that... after a beat...
APGAR
No, I'll take care of that.
She reluctantly moves to exit... as Apgar, his mind
working, moves across the room and touches a panel
(that will become meaningful later)... Tayna pauses at
the door...
TAYNA
Doctor, be careful...
APGAR
It'll be all right. Go on...
She EXITS.
65A ON TAYNA AND KRAG
KRAG
Computer, freeze program.
(to Tayna)
What happened next?
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/29/89 - ACT FOUR 48.
65A CONTINUED:
TAYNA
I left the station with Manua.
The next morning when I heard that
the station had exploded... I knew
what had happened. He'd killed
Doctor Apgar.
KRAG
Thank you. You're excused.
She exits off camera.
66 ON KRAG AND PICARD
KRAG
(to Picard)
Captain, I have established
motive, method and opportunity.
In any court in the Federation,
it is enough to warrant the
extradition of the accused. I
await your decision forthwith.
Push in on Picard...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/28/89 - ACT FIVE 49.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
67 INT. READY ROOM
Picard and Troi.
PICARD
I don't see any alternative, do
you?
TROI
We both know Will is innocent...
PICARD
Of course he is. But as a
Starfleet captain, I don't have
the luxury of yielding to my
personal feelings.
(beat)
The evidence certainly warrants
a trial... I will have to allow
extradition.
TROI
Do you think there's enough
evidence to prove his innocence?
A long beat.
PICARD
Frankly... no.
DATA'S COM VOICE
Captain, we have discovered the
source of the radiation... can
you join us on the bridge?
PICARD
Acknowledged.
(pausing, to Troi)
Why don't you spend some time with
Commander Riker...
TROI
I'd like that.
Picard acknowledges and EXITS.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/1/89 - ACT FIVE 50.
67A OMITTED
67B INT. MAIN BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL)
Geordi, Data, and Wesley are at one of the aft science
stations. Picard ENTERS from the Ready Room.
DATA
Captain, as you know, we have been
looking for a phenomenon that
reoccurs every five hours, twenty
minutes and three seconds...
PICARD
(nods)
The interval between radiation
bursts...
DATA
We have found one such phenomenon
on the planet's surface.
GEORDI
It's the field generator that
Apgar used in his research. When
it's fully charged, it emits an
energy pulse and then requires
five hours, twenty minutes and
three seconds to recharge itself.
WESLEY
It must have been left on after
the explosion of the lab.
PICARD
But why would the generator be
affecting the Enterprise this
way... ?
DATA
It should not be. It is a
harmless Lambda Field generator.
GEORDI
But we knew that somehow it was
related to our radiation bursts
... and that's when the pieces
started falling together...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/29/89 - ACT FIVE 50A.
67B CONTINUED:
DATA
We now know what is causing the
bursts, sir, and why the science
station exploded.
WESLEY
We also know who killed Doctor
Apgar.
Off Picard's reaction...
67C
thru OMITTED
67E
69 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
Still in orbit.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/4/89 - ACT FIVE 51.
70 INT. HOLODECK/SPACE STATION LABORATORY
Picard, Riker, Troi, Geordi, Krag, Manua and Tayna.
(NOTE: Troi has already heard the explanation and
should not be perplexed at what she hears.)
PICARD
Chief Inspector, we've watched
the events replayed over and over
again... I've been impressed...
and admittedly dismayed... by the
body of evidence you've prepared
against Commander Riker.
Krag acknowledges.
PICARD
But isn't it remarkable that with
all the witnesses, all the
different points of view of the
events aboard the space station...
that we've never seen what really
happened at all?
KRAG
(reacts)
I don't understand.
PICARD
Allow me, with the help of Mister
La Forge, to explain. computer,
load Manua Program One, time code
fourteen-four-one...
70A ANGLE
The holograms of Riker, Manua, Apgar, Geordi and Tayna
appear frozen as they did in Manua's version of the
first lab scene...
PICARD
Play program.
APGAR
(defensive)
Fine. Whatever. Starfleet will
get its Krieger Wave converter.
These things take time. I've had
a few setbacks, that's all...
PICARD
Freeze.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/29/89 - ACT FIVE 52.
70A CONTINUED:
The holograms freeze.
PICARD
Mrs. Apgar, this was from your
deposition. It would suggest that
your husband had failed to create
Krieger Waves...
MANUA
Yes. But he was very close to
a breakthrough.
PICARD
(acknowledges)
He says here he needed more
time... and he was upset by our
early arrival. In fact, I
maintain he already had made a
breakthrough... and that he was
lying to us...
KRAG
On what basis... ?
Picard glances to Geordi...
GEORDI
For the last several hours, the
Enterprise has been experiencing
unusual radiation bursts. We've
identified them as Krieger Waves.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/3/89 - ACT FIVE 53.
70A CONTINUED: (2)
Reactions...
TAYNA
Krieger Waves... but that's
impossible. From where?
GEORDI
From right here. In the Holodeck.
PICARD
We recreated your science lab in
every conceivable detail... from
all technical sources available
including Doctor Apgar's own
personal records... There is a
slight margin of error, but
essentially whatever was in the
original lab is here...
GEORDI
(moving to the
experimental display)
Including the Krieger Wave
converter that Doctor Apgar
claimed didn't work... except it
does work.
PICARD
Your field generator on the planet
surface has been sending out
harmless energy charges... and
this facsimile has been converting
them into Krieger Waves.
RIKER
(confused)
But the Holodeck can't create
anything dangerous...
GEORDI
(acknowledges)
It didn't. When you get down to
basics, the converter is nothing
more than a complex series of
mirrors and reflective coils.
The energy from the field
generator on the planet simply
reflects off elements in the
convertor which turns it into
highly focused Krieger Waves...
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/30/89 - ACT FIVE 54.
70A CONTINUED: (3)
PICARD
And those waves have been randomly
striking different areas of our
ship as we orbit the planet and
our angle to the generator
changes.
KRAG
Why would Apgar lie about his own
success... ?
PICARD
(nods, yes, good
question)
Computer, run Manua Program One,
time code, fourteen three-eight.
The set changes to --
70B OMITTED
70C ANGLE - SPACE STATION LIVING ROOM (OPTICAL)
From Manua's story --
APGAR
Manua, someday I'll reward you
for all your patience. I'll get
you everything you ever dreamed
of.
MANUA
I have all the reward I need.
PICARD
Freeze.
The Holodeck figures freeze.
PICARD
(continuing)
Run Riker Program Two, time code,
sixteen-one-zero.
The Apgar/Manua holograms DISAPPEAR and REAPPEAR with
Riker, from Riker's story, the champagne toast:
RIKER
To your success, doctor.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/4/89 - ACT FIVE 55.
70C CONTINUED:
MANUA
(pointed)
And the rewards that come with
it.
PICARD
Freeze.
The Holodeck figures freeze.
MANUA
I never said that.
PICARD
Nevertheless, it seems clear that
your husband was motivated to earn
the kind of rewards that would
please you, Mrs. Apgar.
MANUA
(defensive)
What's wrong with that?
TROI
He wouldn't have earned great
profits from his dealings with
Starfleet... We were only
interested in a new power
source...
GEORDI
But if he could turn this into
a weapon... it would be worth a
lot to the Ferengi or the
Romulans or a few others. Doctor
Apgar had been ordering extra
dicosilium for months... that's
a pretty good indication he was
trying to create larger reflective
coils.
PICARD
When the away team arrived early
he must have been worried that
Starfleet was getting suspicious.
He needed more time to finish his
work. Apgar said that in all
three versions. No doubt, he was
afraid that Commander Riker might
learn the truth and cut off his
support prematurely.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/4/89 - ACT FIVE 56.
70C CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD (Cont'd)
Discovering Commander Riker with
his wife did not improve matters.
(dramatic pause)
And, I submit, that he decided
to murder Commander Riker.
Reactions.
MANUA
Ridiculous.
PICARD
Is it? Computer, run Tayna
Program Four, time code
eighteen-one-four.
The set changes back to...
71 OMITTED
71A ANGLE - SPACE STATION LABORATORY (OPTICAL)
From Tayna's story, Apgar and Tayna --
TAYNA
I'll contact the authorities.
APGAR
No, I'll take care of that.
She reluctantly moves to exit... as Apgar, his mind
working, moves across the room and touches a panel...
PICARD
Freeze.
The holograms freeze.
PICARD
(nods)
Tayna, what is it that he's doing
here... ?
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/1/89 - ACT FIVE 57.
71A CONTINUED:
Apgar's hologram has been frozen as he touches the
panel.
TAYNA
(realizing)
Activating the generator on the
planet.
PICARD
Why would he do that?
TAYNA
(shrugs)
Maybe he was going to work on the
converter, I don't know.
PICARD
Or he might have already been
thinking ahead to his next
confrontation with Commander
Riker... Computer, play Riker
Program Four, time code twenty-four-one.
72 NEW ANGLE
The holograms of Apgar and Tayna disappear and are
replaced by Apgar and Riker... as described by Riker...
APGAR
What are you going to put in your
report, Riker? That there's no
justification for all the extra
discosilium I've requested? That
is why they sent you early, isn't
it?
RIKER
(shakes his head)
Doctor...
APGAR
(too earnest)
I can explain why I needed it.
They have no idea what my problems
are... there are explanations for
all of it...
RIKER
(interrupts)
I don't need explanations.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/3/89 - ACT FIVE 58.
72 CONTINUED:
A moment as they study each other. Apgar seems to
understand where he stands now.
PICARD
Freeze.
The holograms freeze.
PICARD
To Apgar, that must have seemed
as though Commander Riker was
confirming his worst fears. And I
believe this is when Apgar decided
finally to kill him.
KRAG
You forget, Picard... we know the
energy pulse which blew up the
reactor was fired from Commander
Riker's position not Doctor
Apgar's.
Picard glances to Geordi.
GEORDI
We are hypothesizing that Doctor
Apgar energized the converter at
the moment of Commander Riker's
beam-out hoping to make his death
look like a transporter accident.
But something went wrong... the
energy pulse hit the Transporter
beam and reflected back to the
lab's reactor which caused the
explosion.
KRAG
An interesting hypothesis. But
impossible to prove.
GEORDI
Not really. We know that the
field generator on the planet
has been repeating a discharge
command ever since the explosion.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/1/89 - ACT FIVE 59.
72 CONTINUED: (2)
GEORDI (Cont'd)
The intervals are like
clockwork... except the explosion
occurred point-zero-zero-one-four
seconds after the first
discharge... the only explanation
for that variance is the time it
would take the energy pulse to
bounce back from the transporter
beam to the reactor.
MANUA
I haven't the slightest idea what
anyone's talking about.
PICARD
Nor should you, Mrs. Apgar.
We have arranged a demonstration
to illustrate. Mister La Forge,
I believe it is almost time is
it not?
GEORDI
(acknowledges)
Computer, load program, La Forge
One... coordinate auto-engage time
sequence.
73 ANGLE
The holograms of Riker and Apgar disappear and reappear
in different positions...
GEORDI
(beat)
The next discharge from the field
generator is scheduled to occur
in a few moments. We have aligned
the Holodeck program to recreate
the final events as Commander
Riker described them... only this
time our facsimile will
automatically process the energy
charge from the planet and reflect
it just as the original convertor
did before the explosion.
PICARD
If we're correct, we'll know it
instantly.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 12/1/89 - ACT FIVE 60.
73 CONTINUED:
The program begins automatically... the holograms begin
to move and talk --
RIKER
I will tell my captain to expect
your grievance.
APGAR
Do that.
Apgar seats himself at a console, begins to work,
entering commands...
74 ANGLE - INCLUDE THE GALLERY (OPTICAL)
Riker's hologram taps his insignia...
RIKER
Riker to Enterprise. I'm ready
to leave now.
O'BRIEN'S COM VOICE
Stand by, Commander. Engaging
transport.
Riker begins to DEMATERIALIZE... Apgar glances up...
suddenly an energy beam shoots from the converter hits
the transport effect and reflects back past Apgar into
the reactor... and then there is a huge explosion that
wipes out everything except of course the gallery...
when it clears, we are in:
75 INT. HOLODECK
-- the empty Holodeck. Picard, Riker, Troi, Geordi,
Krag, Manua, and Tayna are unharmed.
PICARD
Doctor Apgar killed himself...
during his attempt to kill
Commander Riker.
A long beat.
KRAG
Captain... I withdraw my request
for Commander Riker's extradition.
Troi smiles. Riker relaxes.
STAR TREK: "Perspective" - REV. 11/30/89 - ACT FIVE 61.
76 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard and Riker at their command stations. Everyone
else in their usual positions. Troi is ENTERING from
the aft turbolift. As she walks down to her chair she
takes the long way so she can pass by Riker, and lay a
hand briefly on his shoulder.
He looks up at her, and a glance is exchanged. "I'm
glad you're safe." "I'm glad you were there."
She takes her chair.
PICARD
Well, Number One... have we any
"further business" in the Tanuga
system?
RIKER
Not that I know of, sir. I'm more
than willing to put it behind me.
PICARD
Then perhaps you'd be so good as
to get this ship underway?
RIKER
With pleasure, sir.
They exchange a glance. Riker then turns toward
Wesley.
RIKER
Mister Crusher, set a course for
Emila-Two.
WESLEY
Course laid in, sir.
RIKER
Engage.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END