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STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Frame of Mind"
#40276-247
Written by
Brannon Braga
Directed by
Jim Conway
FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING
WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT.
Copyright 1992 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 This script is not for publication or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
FEBRUARY 16, 1993
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 2/16/93 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Frame of Mind"
CAST
PICARD ADMINISTRATOR
RIKER ATTENDANT
DATA DOCTOR
BEVERLY INMATE
TROI LIEUTENANT
WORF
GEORDI
WOUNDED CREWPERSON
N.D. COM VOICE
Non-Speaking
1 WOUNDED N.D. CREWMEMBER
N.D. CREWMEMBERS (AUDIENCE)
2 GUARDS
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 2/16/93 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Frame of Mind"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
SICKBAY
READY ROOM
RIKER'S QUARTERS
TURBOLIFT
CORRIDOR
OBSERVATION LOUNGE
TEN FORWARD
THEATRE/ASYLUM CELL
ASYLUM
ASYLUM CORRIDOR
ASYLUM COMMON AREA
ASYLUM CELL
ALIEN LAB
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 2/16/93 - PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Frame of Mind"
PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
TILONUS tie-LONE-us
MAVEK MAY-vek
JAYA YAI-ya
SUNA SOON-ah
SYRUS SYE-russ
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Frame of Mind"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 INT. ASYLUM CELL
An austere room -- devoid of furnishings, except for a
BED and a DOOR with a small thick-paned window. RIKER
is sitting on the bed, dressed in casual hospital-type
clothing. He is trying to maintain control, but there
is an underlying tension. He looks strung out, like
he's been at this for a long time...
He speaks to an offscreen DOCTOR who we never clearly
see (this will be Data, speaking with a distinctive
accent so we don't recognize his voice).
RIKER
(to Doctor)
You're absolutely right, Doctor.
In fact, right now it's hard to
imagine ever hurting anyone...
DOCTOR (O.S.)
How do you feel about that person
you used to be?
RIKER
I feel... terrible. But thanks to
you, I'm much better now. And I
feel confident that when I leave,
I'll be ready to take my place in
society again.
DOCTOR (O.S.)
When do you think that will be?
Riker looks at him... gives him a nervous smile...
RIKER
Well... now. Right away.
DOCTOR (O.S.)
What makes you say that?
RIKER
You said when I was able to accept
what I'd done, and understood the
consequences of my actions, that
I'd be free to go.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - TEASER 2.
1 CONTINUED:
DOCTOR (O.S.)
"Free to go." Are you saying you
don't think you should stand trial
for what you've done?
Riker pauses... he's skittish, trying to please the
Doctor and say the right thing -- but he's losing the
fight to stay calm.
RIKER
I'm looking forward to proving my
innocence...
DOCTOR (O.S.)
I thought you said you accepted
what you'd done.
Riker tries to backtrack.
RIKER
But that's not what I meant. I...
I meant that I was sick when it
happened. I wasn't responsible
for what I did...
A tense beat.
DOCTOR (O.S.)
How do I know that you're not just
telling me what I want to hear?
Riker doesn't have a response.
DOCTOR (O.S.)
(doubtful)
Perhaps we should continue this
discussion next week...
Riker's temper flares -- he stands.
RIKER
No. I want to talk about it
now...
DOCTOR (O.S.)
(calmly)
You're starting to sound angry
again. Maybe you need another
treatment...
Riker drops all pretense of being the "good patient"
and lets his genuine feelings come out.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - TEASER 3.
1 CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER
What I need is to get out of this
cell. I'm locked up day and
night... you control every
move... tell me what to eat, what
to think, what to say...
Riker moves around the room, liked a caged animal.
RIKER
(continuing)
And when I show a glimmer of
independent thought, you strap me
down, inject me with drugs and
call it a "treatment."
DOCTOR (O.S.)
You're becoming agitated...
RIKER
You bet I'm agitated! I may be
surrounded by insanity, but I'm
not insane. And I won't let you
or anyone... me think I am....
Riker hesitates, stumbling over his words... tries to
correct his last statement.
RIKER
I won't let you or anyone think
that...
Riker's whole demeanor changes -- he stops being the
tortured patient and becomes just Wil Riker. He looks
offscreen and speaks to somebody.
RIKER
I'm sorry. Can we take it from
"You're becoming agitated"?
2 NEW ANGLE
to REVEAL that we have been in the ship's THEATER. A
cell is set up on a stage. The theater seats are
empty, except for BEVERLY, who is directing the play.
DATA -- who is playing the Doctor -- is also on the
cell stage.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - TEASER 4.
2 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
(to all)
Why don't we break for tonight.
I think we've made a lot of
progress.
RIKER
But I'm still not confident about
that final speech...
Beverly moves to Riker onstage.
BEVERLY
There's such a thing as over-rehearsing,
Wil. You'll do just
fine.
(beat)
Try to relax. You're resisting
the character. Let yourself feel
what he's feeling.
Riker is frustrated.
RIKER
(unsure)
Maybe I'm just not right for this
part...
Data chimes in.
DATA
(to Riker)
Most humanoids have the potential
to be irrational. Perhaps you
should attempt to access that part
of your psyche.
Beverly nods, tries to give Riker the insight he needs.
BEVERLY
Haven't you ever felt at odds with
everyone -- like the whole world
was against you?
Riker thinks.
RIKER
Yeah... my first year at the
Academy...
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - TEASER 4A.
2 CONTINUED: (2)
BEVERLY
Try to tap into that feeling.
That's what your character is
going through in this scene.
Riker nods, feeling a little better.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - TEASER 5.
2 CONTINUED: (3)
RIKER
I'll work on it...
BEVERLY
It'll be wonderful. You're going
to knock 'em dead.
Riker nods. As everyone moves to go...
3 INT. CORRIDOR
A few minutes later. Riker walking along, still
dressed in his inmate costume. He's practicing lines
from his final speech, trying to get it right.
RIKER
"You control every move... tell me
what to eat, what to think, what
to say... "
He tries again, this time with more emphasis:
RIKER
(continuing)
"What to eat, what to think, what
to say... "
(beat)
"And when I show a glimmer of
independent thought, you strap me
down, inject me with drugs and
call it a 'treatment'... "
Over the above, a CREWPERSON walks past and gives Riker
a curious look. Riker is too absorbed to notice. He
stops at a Turbolift and taps a button by the door. As
he waits...
RIKER
(continuing)
"I may be surrounded by insanity,
but I'm not insane --"
The doors open and Riker runs directly into an ALIEN
LIEUTENANT. The Lieutenant stares at him with intense
eyes, face utterly expressionless. Riker steps back,
startled...
RIKER
Excuse me...
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - TEASER 6.
3 CONTINUED:
The Lieutenant walks past him. Riker enters the
Turbolift, glances back to see --
The Lieutenant has stopped and is watching Riker. For
a moment, he seems almost menacing. Then he walks off
down the hall...
Riker stands there a moment... trying to shake the
creepy feeling... Then he ENTERS the Turbolift. As
the doors close...
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT ONE 7.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
(NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes)
4 INT. READY ROOM
Riker and PICARD standing at the desk, looking at a
terminal.
RIKER
(surprised)
Tilonus Four? Didn't their
government just collapse?
PICARD
(nods)
It's in a state of total anarchy.
When the Prime Minister was
assassinated, a Federation
research team was on the planet.
It is believed they were forced to
go into hiding...
(beat)
Your mission will be to locate and
evacuate them.
RIKER
Can't they go to local
authorities?
PICARD
There are no local authorities.
The government's been splintered --
several factions are vying for
power. And they're desperate for
weapons or technology of any
kind...
(beat)
Apparently, some factions are
resorting to torture to gather
information. A Starfleet research
team would be a prime target.
Riker weighs the situation.
RIKER
Then I'll have to go alone...
undercover.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT ONE 7A.
4 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Agreed. Mister Worf is ready to
give you a detailed briefing on
Tilonian culture.
Riker nods... and smiles, remembering something.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT ONE 8.
4 CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER
(smiles)
Looks like I'll have to back out
of Doctor Crusher's play after
all...
Picard reacts, supportive.
PICARD
No, no... you'll have plenty of
time for that, Number One. We
won't be arriving at Tilonus for
another five days.
(beat)
Besides, if you back out now,
Beverly will come after me to play
the part.
Riker nods and they exchange a smile. As Riker
EXITS...
5 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Later. Riker and WORF standing at the wall MONITOR,
which displays an AERIAL MAP of TILONUS FOUR. Worf
points to a specific region on the map.
WORF
This is the last known location of
the research team. They had
occupied a small building in the
Southwest quarter of the city.
You will begin your search there.
Riker considers.
RIKER
The Southwest quarter covers over
two hundred square kilometers.
That's a lot of ground for one man
to cover...
(lightly)
I'd better pack an extra pair of
boots.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT ONE 9.
5 CONTINUED:
Worf shoots him a look, not in the mood for jokes. A
tense beat. Then he moves to the table, where SEVERAL
pieces of EQUIPMENT have been laid out -- a canteen,
some clothing, a tricorder, etc. Worf points to a
bundle of plain-looking CLOTHING.
WORF
(re: clothing)
This apparel will allow you to
pass as a common merchant.
Worf picks up a small Tilonian PENDANT.
WORF
(re: pendant)
This Tilonian pendant has been
equipped with a communicator
circuit.
Riker takes the pendant -- holds it up to the clothing.
RIKER
(with humor)
It doesn't really match the
outfit...
Worf's temper flares.
WORF
I suggest you pay closer
attention, Commander. Your life
will be at stake.
Worf stares intensely at Riker -- almost threatening.
It's a very odd moment -- strange and creepy.
WORF
(hard)
Do you understand what I am
saying?
Riker is taken aback by Worf's tone.
RIKER
(an edge)
Yes... of course I do...
Worf picks up a small, exotic-looking KNIFE. Riker
observes somberly, his mood darker now.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT ONE 10.
5 CONTINUED: (2)
WORF
(re: knife)
Because you will be posing as a
merchant, you will need to know
how to use the Nisroh for the
traditional bartering ceremony.
Worf demonstrates by raising the blade high into the
air, moving it in a complex, ritualistic manner...
WORF
(continuing)
You will be judged on your prowess
with the blade...
Worf moves the blade in quick thrusting motions...
faster.. more elaborate... Without warning, the blade
CATCHES THE SIDE OF RIKER'S HEAD. Riker recoils,
startled.
Worf reacts, genuinely concerned.
WORF
I am sorry, Commander! I did not
intend --
RIKER
That's okay, that's okay...
Riker touches his head -- the wound is bleeding.
RIKER
(continuing)
I guess I really wasn't paying
attention...
(beat)
I'd better get to Sickbay. We'll
pick this up later.
WORF
Aye sir...
Worf watches with concern as Riker heads for the
door...
6 INT. SICKBAY (OPTICAL)
Riker sitting on a bed; Beverly HEALING his head wound
with a medical device.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT ONE 11.
6 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
(with humor)
You'll do anything to get out of
this play, won't you?
(beat)
Well, you're going to have to do
better than this...
Riker smiles.
RIKER
The play's tomorrow night. I've
still got twenty-four hours left.
Beverly shuts off the device. Riker turns -- his wound
is completely healed.
BEVERLY
Don't get any ideas. I'll expect
you on stage at eighteen hundred
hours.
RIKER
Right...
Riker stands to go -- and stops, reacting to a sharp
pain in his head.
RIKER
(re: his head)
It still hurts...
Beverly quickly scans his head with a medical
tricorder.
BEVERLY
There's no nerve damage... you
shouldn't be feeling any pain.
RIKER
Probably just a symptom of stage
fright --
Suddenly, the doors OPEN and GEORDI rushes in with TWO
N.D. CREWMEMBERS. One of the crewmembers is badly
INJURED -- his face and uniform are marred by scorch
marks and blood. Geordi and the other N.D. carry him
along, urgent...
GEORDI
(re: wounded N.D.)
He was working on a conduit on
Deck Thirty-seven. A plasma torch
blew up in his hands...
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT ONE 12.
6 CONTINUED: (2)
The crewmember screams in pain -- it's an awful sight.
WOUNDED CREWMEMBER
It hurts! Oh God -- it hurts!
The scene takes on a frantic, disturbing tone as they
help him toward a nearby bed...
Riker moves out of the way. The wounded N.D. moans in
pain and looks directly at him. Riker reacts,
startled. The N.D. stares at Riker even as he is laid
on the bed... as Beverly begins to treat the wounds...
He just keeps staring... strange... unsettling...
Riker edges toward the doors... unable to tear his eyes
away from the man... shaken by the sight... EXITS...
7 INT. TEN FORWARD
Later. Riker and TROI sitting at the bar, drinks in
front of them. Riker is troubled by the day's events.
RIKER
I've been on a lot of missions...
and I've seen a lot of people get
injured...
(beat)
But I've never been affected like
this...
Riker is chilled by the memory.
RIKER
(continuing)
He was looking right at me.
TROI
And that was disturbing to you...
RIKER
It was like he was... blaming me
or something. But it's more than
just this one incident. For the
past few days, I've been feeling
like everyone's staring at me...
or talking about me...
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT ONE 13.
7 CONTINUED:
RIKER (Cont'd)
(lightly)
I feel like I'm in "Frame of
Mind"...
TROI
"Frame of Mind"?
RIKER
Doctor Crusher's play. Ever since
I started rehearsing the role,
I've been feeling a little
restless... uneasy...
Troi considers.
TROI
You're probably drawing on
feelings that you're not used to
expressing...
RIKER
Yeah. The play is full of
disturbing images. People losing
their minds... being tortured by
doctors...
(beat)
I can't get it out of my head...
Troi is supportive, tries to help.
TROI
Sometimes it's healthy to explore
the darker sides of the psyche.
Jung called it "owning your own
shadow."
(beat)
This could be a sign that you're
a real actor, Wil. It's becoming
more than just a role to you.
Riker is intrigued by her words.
RIKER
Maybe you're right...
TROI
Don't be afraid of your darker
side. Have fun with it.
Riker nods, feeling better. He lifts his glass to take
a drink, and stops -- reacting to a pain in his temple,
where the wound was. He puts his hand to his head, and
something across the room catches his eye...
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - REV. 02/24/93 - ACT ONE 14.
8 NEW ANGLE
of the strange, alien Lieutenant (as seen in the
Teaser). He is sitting across the room, alone at a
table, staring at Riker with his expressionless face.
He stands and heads for the door...
9 RESUME
Riker turns to Troi.
RIKER
(re: Lieutenant)
Who is that?
Troi turns to look, but the doors are just closing.
The Lieutenant is gone.
RIKER
(continuing)
You just missed him.
(beat)
Do we have a new Lieutenant on
board?
TROI
I'm not sure. Do you want me to
check the personnel logs?
Riker shakes off the creepy feeling, stands to go.
RIKER
No... I'll check them tomorrow...
(beat)
I think I'll get to bed early.
Tomorrow's the performance and I
want to be up for it.
TROI
I'm looking forward to it.
(beat)
Break a leg.
RIKER
I'll try not to take that
literally.
They share a smile. Riker heads for the door...
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT ONE 15.
10 INT. ASYLUM CELL/THEATER
The austere set, as seen in the Teaser. But now there
is a full AUDIENCE -- Picard, Beverly, Worf, Troi,
Geordi and several other crewmembers and civilians are
watching, engrossed.
The play is in its final moments. Riker is sitting on
the bed, strung-out. Data (as the Doctor) is standing
nearby. Riker's performance is different from before --
more focused and authentic. A genuine passion drives
him through the scene -- he is utterly convincing in
the role.
DATA/DOCTOR
(doubtful)
Perhaps we should continue this
discussion next week...
Riker stands, temper flaring.
RIKER
No. I want to talk about it
now...
DATA/DOCTOR
(calmly)
You're starting to sound angry
again. Maybe you need another
treatment...
RIKER
What I need is to get out of this
cell. I'm locked up day and
night... you control every
move... tell me what to eat, what
to think, what to say...
Riker moves around the room, liked a caged animal.
RIKER
(continuing)
And when I show a glimmer of
independent thought, you strap me
down, inject me with drugs and
call it a "treatment."
DOCTOR
You're becoming agitated...
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT ONE 16.
10 CONTINUED:
Riker lets loose -- genuine emotions rushing to the
surface. He has no trouble with his final speech this
time around -- it's passionate and intense.
RIKER
You bet I'm agitated! I may be
surrounded by insanity, but I'm
not insane. And I won't let you
or anyone else tell me I am.
Riker prowls about the stage... hands shaking... voice
breaking with emotion. A believable, bravura
performance that has the audience riveted and moved.
RIKER
(continuing)
You can destroy my mind, but you
can't change the truth. I didn't
kill that man.
(beat)
And that's what's driving you
crazy...
A long tense beat.
DATA/DOCTOR
I can see we have a lot of work to
do.
Data turns and EXITS. The sound of it being LOCKED.
Riker moves to the door and shouts at Data.
RIKER
No matter what you do, you can't
change the fact that I'm innocent!
(beat)
I'm not crazy!
Suddenly, the cell lights GO OUT and Riker sags against
the door, defeated.
RIKER
(to himself)
I'm not crazy...
He pauses, staring into middle distance... suddenly
frozen with uncertainty... pondering the events that
have led to his imprisonment. The play has built to
this instant...
RIKER
(doubtful)
I'm... not...
(beat)
...crazy.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT ONE 17.
10 CONTINUED: (2)
The stage lights slowly FADE OUT. The End. A beat,
then the house lights COME UP. The audience begins to
APPLAUD enthusiastically. Several people stand... then
a few more... soon it is a standing ovation...
The stage lights GO UP for the curtain call. Data
walks out and takes a bow. The applause intensifies.
Riker walks onstage, out of breath... shaky... the
performance has taken its toll... but he smiles at the
audience and takes a bow...
11 NEW ANGLE
of the audience. Picard and the others can be seen
smiling, cheering...
12 RIKER
takes another bow...
13 NEW ANGLE
The alien Lieutenant is now standing next to Picard.
He is staring directly at Riker... eyes intense... face
cold... and he is not applauding...
14 RIKER
reacts to the sight, startled. He takes a final bow...
15 NEW ANGLE
As Riker stands. THE AUDIENCE IS GONE AND THERE IS A
CELL WALL IN ITS PLACE. The cheering has stopped --
silence.
16 RIKER
reacts and spins around --
17 NEW ANGLE TO REVEAL:
we are now in an ACTUAL ASYLUM CELL. Similar to the
set but clearly a real place. Riker is completely
stunned. From offscreen:
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT ONE 18.
17 CONTINUED:
VOICE (O.S.)
I can see we have a lot of work to
do.
Riker turns to see --
18 AN ALIEN DOCTOR
is standing nearby -- a species we've never seen
before. A real Doctor. OFF Riker's shock and
confusion...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT TWO 19.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
19 INT. ASYLUM CELL - CONTINUOUS
Riker is glancing around the room, trying to make sense
out of the situation. He turns to the Doctor.
RIKER
Where am I?
(beat)
How did you get me off the ship?
The Doctor studies him with concern... then taps a few
controls on a note-taking device.
DOCTOR
(to himself)
The ship again...
Riker eyes him, confused. He moves to the door and
scans it -- but there's no visible way of getting it
open.
RIKER
What's going on?
The Doctor tries to keep Riker calm by staying calm
himself. It's like he's been through this before.
DOCTOR
I understand this must be very
disturbing for you. But try to
relax.
(beat)
Tell me. Where were you a moment
ago?
RIKER
I was on the Enterprise. In the
middle of a play...
(looks around)
Here... but it wasn't real... it
was a stage...
DOCTOR
I can assure you this is not a
stage.
(beat)
Do you remember your name?
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT TWO 20.
19 CONTINUED:
RIKER
I'm Commander...
(beat)
Commander...
Riker hesitates, unable to remember. He begins to move
about the room, grasping at the memories... but they're
quickly fading away...
RIKER
(continuing)
I knew who I was a second ago...
I was on the ship... in a play...
(beat)
It's getting harder to remember...
The Doctor nods.
DOCTOR
That's good. You're starting to
come out of your delusional state.
RIKER
(reacts)
Delusion... it couldn't be a
delusion. I was there...
A beat.
DOCTOR
(gently)
We've discussed this. Do you
remember when we contacted
Starfleet... and asked them about
you?
RIKER
No...
DOCTOR
We spoke with Admiral Budrow. On
Starbase...
RIKER
(chiming in)
... Starbase Twenty-nine.
Riker's face changes as he starts to remember -- a
mixture of shock and realization...
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT TWO 21.
19 CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER
He said he'd never heard of me...
that they had no officer matching
my description...
DOCTOR
That's right. Now. Focus on who
I am. Do you remember me?
Riker eyes him.
RIKER
I'm not sure...
DOCTOR
I'm Doctor Syrus.
(beat)
Do you remember anything about
where you are now?
Riker thinks... instinctively puts a hand up to his
temple, feeling a pain there...
RIKER
I hurt my head... somebody hit
me...
DOCTOR
You tried to escape. You
struggled with one of the
attendants and hit your head on a
door. Do you remember that?
It finally starts to come back to Riker -- he remembers
what happened...
RIKER
Yes... now I do. But at first, I
thought a Klingon cut me... with
a knife...
DOCTOR
It's called transposition. You're
projecting elements from your
delusions onto events that really
happened.
(beat)
But that's good. There was a time
when you couldn't break away from
your Starship fantasy at all.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT TWO 22.
19 CONTINUED: (3)
Riker looks at him. He's starting to accept this
reality.
RIKER
If what you're saying is true...
where am I?
The Doctor takes a beat.
DOCTOR
You're in Ward Forty-seven of the
Tilonus Institute for Mental
Disorders.
Riker reacts. He sits down on the bed... weighing the
implications.
RIKER
Why am I here?
The Doctor softens his tone.
DOCTOR
We'll talk more later. You don't
have to remember everything today.
(beat)
You're making excellent progress.
He gives Riker a gentle smile and a pat on the arm...
turns to go. Riker stands.
RIKER
Wait...
Too late -- he EXITS and the door shuts with a
distinctive LOCKING NOISE. Riker moves to the small
window on the door and peers through it. The Doctor
disappears from view down an austere CORRIDOR.
Riker stands there a moment... not sure what to do with
himself... then begins to take in the room. There's
not much to see. The walls and ceiling and floor are
blank. He presses his hands against the wall, as if to
test it. Solid.
There is a small stainless steel MIRROR inset in a
wall. Riker moves to it and stares at his reflection.
At his clothing... his tired eyes... somber
expression...
A voice is heard over the COM:
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT TWO 23.
19 CONTINUED: (4)
ATTENDANT'S COM VOICE
Good afternoon. I've got some
good news for you.
(beat)
Doctor Syrus suggested that you
might enjoy a couple of hours in
the Common Area today.
Riker doesn't respond.
ATTENDANT'S COM VOICE
(continuing)
Well?
RIKER
(to com)
I guess so...
The door OPENS and an ATTENDANT (MAVEK) ENTERS along
with a HOSPITAL GUARD. The guard is holding a small
stun WEAPON.
The Attendant offers Riker a smile.
ATTENDANT
I hope you're hungry. They're
serving spiny lobe-fish today.
The Guard moves behind Riker to escort him out of the
room. Riker is surprised by the high level of
security.
RIKER
(re: guard)
There's no need for this.
ATTENDANT
That's what you said the last
time.
Riker reacts. As they EXIT..
20 INT. ASYLUM CORRIDOR
Riker, the Attendant and the Guard walking along. The
hall is ascetic, lined with CELL DOORS on either side,
each with an inset window pane. They pass another
inmate, who is being led along by an Attendant.
Somewhere in the distance, a brief YELL echoes through
the corridors. Riker takes it all in, unsettled by the
chilly environment.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT TWO 24.
20 CONTINUED:
Another Doctor is approaching from the opposite end of
the corridor. Riker eyes him as they get closer...
21 ANGLE ON THE DOCTOR
He looks exactly like the alien Lieutenant seen
earlier. He passes Riker without so much as a
glance...
22 RIKER
reacts. As the Guard leads him around a corner...
23 INT. ASYLUM - COMMON AREA
A large room that is brighter and more colorful than
the cell and the corridor. There are windows...
plants... several tables and activities for the
patients. One inmate is painting a bizarre PICTURE...
two other inmates are sitting together, engaged in a
hushed conversation... another sits alone, staring into
middle-distance, slowly rocking back and forth...
Riker, the Attendant and the Guard ENTER. The
Attendant dismisses the Guard and leads Riker to a
table, sits him down.
ATTENDANT
(to Riker)
I'll be back with your lunch.
The Attendant walks off. Riker glances around
nervously, uncomfortable in this strange setting. A
few moments go by... then a FEMALE INMATE -- alien,
humanoid -- sits down next to Riker and stares at him.
She glances around to make sure no one's listening...
speaks to him in an urgent whisper...
INMATE
I hear you're a Starfleet
officer...
Riker looks at her, surprised.
INMATE
(continuing)
I'm Commander Bloom from the
Yorktown...
(looks around)
There are at least a dozen of us
here... maybe more...
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - REV. 02/17/93 - ACT TWO 25.
23 CONTINUED:
INMATE (Cont'd)
We were kidnapped... brought here
against our will...
Riker just stares at her... listening and trying to
figure out what to believe... She points out various
inmates around the room.
INMATE
(re: inmate)
Sanders was on the Yosemite. They
did something to his mind. I
think they're trying to get neuro
chemicals from our brains...
(points to another)
Stafko was with me on the
Yorktown. I don't know what they
did to him...
Riker is compelled by her story...
INMATE
(continuing)
We're going to get out of here.
I've made a communicator...
RIKER
(hopeful)
You have?
INMATE
Yes. There are three Starships in
orbit. They're going to beam us
out of here any day now...
(beat)
I'll tell them to get you out,
too...
Riker's hope is rising... She looks around
surreptitiously... then carefully pulls out a spoon.
INMATE
(into spoon)
Lieutenant Bloom to Yorktown...
come in Yorktown. I've made
contact with another officer...
Riker's realizes, his hopes dashed. From offscreen:
ATTENDANT (O.S.)
Talking to your Starship again,
Jaya?
She quickly hides the spoon.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT TWO 26.
23 CONTINUED: (2)
INMATE
No.
She gets up and gives Riker a conspiratorial look --
INMATE
(quiet)
Don't let them tell you you're
crazy.
The Attendant sets down a plate of FOOD in front of
Riker, then moves to the inmate and stretches out his
hand.
ATTENDANT
You know you're not supposed to
take utensils from the Common
Area.
A beat. She grudgingly hands over the spoon and moves
off. The Attendant sits down and sets down the spoon
in front of Riker.
ATTENDANT
(re: spoon)
You're welcome to try it.
Riker manages a smile.
RIKER
I'm not that far gone, am I?
ATTENDANT
Of course you are. Last week you
held an entire conversation with
a chair, remember?
Riker looks at him, surprised.
RIKER
No...
A beat. The Attendant laughs. Riker realizes he was
joking and somberly looks down at his tray. There is
an underlying tension to the Attendant's friendly
demeanor -- he enjoys manipulating the patients to get
a reaction.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - REV. 02/17/93 - ACT TWO 27.
23 CONTINUED: (3)
ATTENDANT
Where's your sense of humor? If
you ever want to get better,
you've got to relax.
Riker takes a bite of food. A moment as he eats...
then he gazes at the Attendant, suddenly remembering
something...
RIKER
Your name -- it's Mav... Mavek.
ATTENDANT
That's right. Not bad for a crazy
man.
Riker looks frustrated.
RIKER
I'm starting to remember certain
things, but...
(beat)
Why am I here?
The Attendant considers... eyeing Riker...
ATTENDANT
I remember when they brought you
in. You were screaming...
struggling...
Riker listens intently, unsettled. The Attendant seems
to relish in the description...
ATTENDANT
(continuing)
We could barely hold you down. In
fact, just getting the blood off
your hands took over an hour.
RIKER
(reacts)
Blood?
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT TWO 28.
23 CONTINUED: (4)
ATTENDANT
(nods)
On your hands... your clothes...
(beat)
You didn't just kill that man...
you mutilated him.
Riker is shocked.
RIKER
What are you talking about? I
didn't kill anybody.
The Attendant is deliberately pushing Riker to get a
response.
ATTENDANT
I'm afraid you did. You stabbed
him. They found you near the
body... with the knife in your
hand...
Riker grows fearful... angry...
RIKER
No. It's not true...
ATTENDANT
Yes it is. And if you get out of
here, you're going to stand
trial...
RIKER
(yells)
You're lying!
ATTENDANT
I imagine the punishment will be
quite severe... considering you
stabbed him nine times --
Riker loses control --
RIKER
NO!
He stands, GRABS the Attendant and shoves him against
the wall. TWO GUARDS hurry over. They grab Riker by
the arms, restraining him. He struggles. The entire
room is watching.
The Attendant pulls out an ALIEN SYRINGE from his coat --
moves toward Riker... As he INJECTS Riker with the
syringe --
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT TWO 29-31.
24
thru OMITTED
25
26 INT. ENTERPRISE - RIKER'S QUARTERS - CONTINUOUS
Riker bolts awake in his bed, as if from a nightmare.
He's dressed in his nightclothes... sweating... rattled
by the dream. He glances around the room in momentary
confusion... but there's no one there. He's safely
aboard the Enterprise. OFF his shaken expression...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT THREE 32.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
27 INT. RIKER'S QUARTERS
Riker is standing in the bathroom, dressed in his
INMATE COSTUME, looking in the mirror. He is preparing
himself for that evening's performance of the play.
Everything appears to be normal. Beverly stands
nearby, listening to Riker recall his "dream."
RIKER
(to Beverly)
I was there... in Ward Forty-seven,
just like in the play.
Everyone thought I was insane...
that I'd killed somebody...
(beat)
Except it was all real.
Beverly is fascinated.
BEVERLY
Deanna mentioned you went to bed
early because you felt a little
anxious about the play. But I had
no idea...
Riker picks up a small MAKE-UP STICK and begins to
apply dark make-up in circles around his eyes --
creating the subtle effect that he is exhausted.
Beverly lightens the mood.
BEVERLY
You said that in your dream we
performed the play...
(beat)
How'd it go?
RIKER
It was a smash. We got a standing
ovation.
BEVERLY
Let's hope it goes that well
tonight.
Riker smiles. He finishes applying the make-up, sets
down the tube.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT THREE 33.
27 CONTINUED:
BEVERLY
We've got one hour to curtain.
How do you feel?
Riker smiles, confident.
RIKER
I feel... like an actor.
Beverly musses his hair a little for added effect.
BEVERLY
You're certainly starting to look
the part.
They exchange a smile. Beverly EXITS. Riker stands to
take a final look at himself in the mirror...
And stops at what he sees. The image is disquieting:
Riker the asylum inmate. There is a creepy moment as
he stares at himself... remembering the dream... then
he shakes off the feeling and turns away from the
mirror...
28 INT. ASYLUM CELL/THEATER
Mid-performance -- the same scene from Teaser and Act
One. There's a full AUDIENCE -- Picard, Beverly, Worf,
Troi, Geordi, etc. They are engrossed.
Riker on his feet, haggard; Data the Doctor stands
nearby. Riker's performance is focused and intense.
DATA/DOCTOR
(doubtful)
Perhaps we should continue this
discussion next week...
Riker's temper flares.
RIKER
No. I want to talk about it
now...
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT THREE 34.
28 CONTINUED:
DATA/DOCTOR
You're starting to sound angry
again. Maybe you need another
treatment...
RIKER
What I need is to get out of this
cell. I'm locked up day and
night... you control my every
move...
At that instant, Riker something catches Riker's eye.
he looks toward the door. A face is staring in through
the small window. Riker reacts, surprised -- it's not
part of the play.
RIKER
(distracted)
You tell me what to eat... what to
think... what to say...
The cell door starts to OPEN. Riker watches as Mavek
the Attendant -- as seen in the "dream" -- walks onto
the stage. He shuts the door and stands there,
silently watching him.
Riker is stunned -- what's happening? He looks to
Beverly, who sits in the wings...
29 BEVERLY
reacts, thinking Riker has forgotten his dialogue. She
picks up a PADD and feeds him his next line --
BEVERLY
(whispers)
"And when I show a glimmer of
independent thought... "
30 RIKER
looks back toward Mavek -- he is gone. Riker
hesitates, unsettled... but his instincts quickly kick
in and he continues...
RIKER
And when I show a glimmer of
independent thought, you strap me
down, inject me with drugs and
call it a "treatment."
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT THREE 35.
30 CONTINUED:
DATA/DOCTOR
You're becoming agitated...
Riker gets back into the scene... genuinely agitated
now... and it fuels his performance...
RIKER
You bet I'm agitated! I may be
surrounded by insanity, but I'm
not insane. And I won't let you
or anyone else tell me...
Something catches Riker's eye -- he glances toward the
audience to see:
31 RIKER'S POV
THE AUDIENCE IS GONE. In its place is an ASYLUM CELL
WALL.
32 RIKER
can't believe his eyes. He looks to Data, who stares
back at him as if nothing is wrong.
Riker looks back toward the wall -- it's gone and the
audience has returned.
RIKER
(to himself)
What's happening...
An awkward beat. The scene has stalled. Data,
thinking fast, jumps to his next line of dialogue to
keep things moving.
DATA/DOCTOR
I can see we have a lot of work to
do.
Data EXITS. Riker is truly shaken, continuing the
scene out of desperation if nothing else.
RIKER
No matter what you do, you can't
change the fact that I'm
innocent...
Riker sees something in the audience --
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT THREE 36.
33 RIKER'S POV
In the audience, sitting next to Picard, is the alien
Lieutenant. He stares at Riker, expressionless.
34 RIKER
is at the breaking point. He stares at the Lieutenant,
growing angry.
Data is unsure what to do. Beverly looks alarmed.
Riker calls out --
RIKER
(to Lieutenant)
You're the key to all this, aren't
you? Who are you?
Riker forgets the play and walks offstage... directly
into the audience... straight toward the alien
Lieutenant. People react, surprised, and get out the
way. Riker GRABS the Lieutenant by the uniform.
RIKER
Who are you?
The Lieutenant looks confused.
LIEUTENANT
Lieutenant Suna, sir...
The Lieutenant is clearly terrified. Riker realizes...
and gradually lets him go... looks around the room to
see that everyone is staring at him.
There is a long, awkward silence. Beverly walks up to
Riker.
BEVERLY
Wil... are you alright?
Riker is confused.
RIKER
No... I don't know...
She gently takes him by the arm.
BEVERLY
Why don't we go down to Sickbay...
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT THREE 37.
34 CONTINUED:
Riker nods. Everyone watches with concern as Beverly
leads him toward the door...
35 INT. SICKBAY
Later. Riker sitting on a bio-bed; Beverly scanning
him with a medical tricorder.
BEVERLY
(off tricorder)
There's nothing wrong with you
neurologically. I don't see
anything that could've caused your
hallucinations.
(beat)
But your heart rate is up... blood
pressure's way above normal.
You're physically exhausted.
Riker is on edge.
RIKER
This is more than just fatigue...
BEVERLY
It's possible under conditions of
extreme stress for the mind to
manufacture all kinds of things.
Riker thinks -- remembers something.
RIKER
Drugs. They injected me with me
drugs...
(to Beverly)
Are there drugs in my system?
Beverly scans him with the tricorder just to be sure.
BEVERLY
(off tricorder)
Nothing.
Riker lets out a long breath.
RIKER
It's that dream... they gave me
drugs in the dream...
(beat)
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - REV. 02/22/93 - ACT THREE 38.
35 CONTINUED:
RIKER
(continuing)
Did anybody in the theater see
anything strange happen during the
performance?
BEVERLY
No... nobody.
Riker looks uneasy. Beverly tries to comfort him.
BEVERLY
(continuing)
Get some rest, Wil. The play is
over. Don't give it another
thought.
Riker nods, starting to feel normal again.
RIKER
Thanks...
Riker stands and heads for the door. Beverly watches
him go, concerned...
35A INT. CORRIDOR
A few minutes later. Riker and Troi walking along.
Troi is trying to ease Riker's mind.
RIKER
How's Lieutenant Suna?
TROI
A little shaken... but alright.
RIKER
I feel like such an idiot.
TROI
It's nothing to be embarrassed
about. We're your friends... We
all know the stress you've been
under. I'm sure everyone
understands perfectly...
They reach an intersection and run into Data, who is
back in uniform. A moment as they stop.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - REV. 02/23/93 - ACT THREE 39.
35A CONTINUED:
DATA
(to Riker)
Commander, I must compliment you
on your performance this evening.
RIKER
Oh?
DATA
Your unexpected choice to
improvise was an effective method
of drawing the audience into the
plight of your character.
(beat)
You gave a truly realistic
interpretation of multi-infarct
dementia.
Riker and Troi exchange a look.
RIKER
Thank you.
Data nods and continues on his way.
TROI
(with humor)
Well... maybe not everyone
understands.
35B CLOSE ON RIKER
as he smiles -- feeling better. HOLD on Riker as he
continues walking with Troi (who is now offscreen).
RIKER
I guess all I need is a little
rest... clear my mind a little...
TROI (O.S.)
I want you to try a few relaxation
techniques, as well. Remember the
ones I showed you a few months
ago?
RIKER
Yeah... but they didn't seem to
work for me.
Suddenly, Troi's VOICE changes to Doctor Syrus' voice:
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - REV. 02/22/93 - ACT THREE 40-41.
35B CONTINUED:
DOCTOR (O.S.)
Maybe you need another treatment.
Riker stops, turns to Troi, startled.
35C INCLUDE TROI
She looks at him, puzzled.
TROI
What's wrong?
Riker suddenly isn't sure he heard anything after all.
RIKER
Nothing... nothing...
TROI
(gentle)
Get some sleep, Wil. I'll see you
tomorrow.
Troi walks off. Riker heads down a different corridor,
unsettled...
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT THREE 42.
36
thru OMITTED
39
40 INT. TURBOLIFT - MOVING
A few minutes later. Riker is trying to stay calm.
After a beat, the lift STOPS and the doors OPEN to
reveal --
THE ASYLUM CORRIDOR (as seen in Act Two). Riker
reacts, startled -- backs up against the inside of the
lift and closes his eyes...
RIKER
(quietly)
It's not real... not real...
Slowly, he opens his eyes to look -- the asylum
corridor is gone. It's the Enterprise again. Riker
takes a breath, then EXITS...
41 INT. ENTERPRISE - CORRIDOR - CONTINUOUS
Riker walking down the hall, staring straight ahead,
trying to maintain control. He passes a crewmember...
walks a little further... then turns a corner...
42 INT. ENTERPRISE - ANOTHER CORRIDOR
Riker turns the corner and stops at what he sees...
INCLUDE the female inmate -- "Commander Bloom" seen in
the Asylum Common Area. She is standing in the
corridor, staring blankly at Riker.
INMATE
(to Riker)
Don't let them tell you you're
crazy.
Riker panics -- turns and quickly walks the other
direction...
43 INT. ENTERPRISE - ANOTHER CORRIDOR
Riker running down the hall... afraid... stops at the
door to his quarters and hurries inside...
44 INT. RIKER'S QUARTERS
As Riker ENTERS. The doors slide shut with the
distinctive LOCKING SOUND (as heard in the Asylum
Cell). Riker reacts to the noise -- turns to see:
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT THREE 43.
45 NEW ANGLE
to REVEAL we are in the ASYLUM CELL. Riker is wearing
the inmate clothing.
Riker reacts -- runs to the door and tries to get it
open...
RIKER
No... NO! Let me out of here!
He loses control -- beats his fists on the door,
helpless, keeps yelling --
RIKER
No! Let me out of here! Help
me...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FOUR 44.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
46 INT. COMMON AREA
A couple of hours have passed. Various inmates are
around the room. Riker and Doctor Syrus sitting at a
table. Riker looks exhausted -- at the breaking point.
RIKER
I need help. I don't want to be
at the mercy of these
hallucinations any more.
DOCTOR
So you've accepted that you're not
from a starship... and that it's
all a delusion?
Riker nods.
RIKER
All I know is that whenever I go
back to the ship, reality starts
to break apart... nothing makes
sense. And when it's over, it
fades away... like a dream...
(beat)
But the hospital... everything
here seems real. I can always
remember what happens here...
DOCTOR
And what about how you got here?
Riker takes a deep breath... nods.
RIKER
Maybe I did kill someone. I don't
know. But I want to find out.
DOCTOR
I'm glad to hear you say that.
Because I just had a long talk
with the hospital Administrator.
He told me there are certain legal
questions that have to be resolved
relatively soon.
RIKER
Meaning?
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FOUR 45.
46 CONTINUED:
DOCTOR
Meaning we can't keep you here
much longer. We're the only
mental health facility on Tilonus
Four. There are many people who
need our help...
(beat)
I don't want to put any undue
stress on you... but we have to
settle this case one way or
another within the next few days.
RIKER
What does that mean?
The Doctor takes a beat.
DOCTOR
You're facing a choice. We can
try to help you remember what
happened using Reflection Therapy.
If it's successful, you would be
fit to stand trial.
RIKER
Reflection Therapy?
DOCTOR
It's a way for you to interact
with various facets of your
personality. We scan the regions
of your brain that control
emotions and memory... then
project them holographically.
Riker considers.
RIKER
What's the other option?
The Doctor finds the best way to put this.
DOCTOR
A complete synaptic reconstruction
of your cerebral cortex.
RIKER
Surgery?
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FOUR 46.
46 CONTINUED: (2)
The Doctor nods grimly.
DOCTOR
We would neutralize the synaptic
pathways responsible for your
mental instability.
RIKER
You don't seem to like that
option.
DOCTOR
I don't. The procedure is
irreversible. You'd be left with
a completely altered personality.
The person you are now would cease
to exist.
Riker doesn't like the sound of it.
RIKER
Option one is starting to sound
better...
DOCTOR
I agree.
A beat as Riker makes the choice.
RIKER
Reflection Therapy then... when do
we start?
DOCTOR
This afternoon, if you're ready.
I want you to understand this
isn't going to be easy. You'll be
interacting with aspects of your
psyche that you've never dealt
with before.
(beat)
And you may be disturbed by what
they have to say.
Riker nods, understanding what he's about to face. OFF
his apprehension...
47 INT. ASYLUM CELL (OPTICAL)
Riker is sitting on the bed, watching Doctor Syrus, who
is placing a MEDICAL DEVICE on the floor. The device
is a tall, sleek cylinder with several controls on the
side.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FOUR 46A.
47 CONTINUED:
The Doctor ACTIVATES the device and it sends out a low
HUMMING NOISE.
DOCTOR
(to Riker)
Close your eyes. Try to relax.
Clear your mind.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FOUR 47.
47 CONTINUED: (2)
Riker shuts his eyes. The Doctor hits a control on the
device -- it SENDS OUT a THIN BEAM OF LIGHT that
briefly PLAYS ACROSS Riker's forehead in a scanning
pattern.
DOCTOR
Now. Think back to before you
came to the hospital. But don't
try to remember specific
incidents. Concentrate on how you
felt...
Riker thinks.
RIKER
I was... afraid...
From offscreen:
TROI (O.S.)
Terrified...
48 INCLUDE TROI (OPTICAL)
who is standing in the room -- a holographic image.
Riker reacts.
RIKER
(re: Troi)
She was on the ship with me...
DOCTOR
That's because she represents an
aspect of your personality -- and
there are many parts of you that
still believe you're on that
starship.
RIKER
Why her?
DOCTOR
I asked you to get in touch with
your feelings, and this is the
part of you that responded. Talk
to her about how you felt before
you came here...
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FOUR 48.
48 CONTINUED:
Riker walks over to the Troi image, eyes her.
RIKER
(to Troi)
You said I was terrified... of
what?
Troi looks at Riker.
TROI
I was in a dark place... cold...
frightened... someone was there...
RIKER
Who?
TROI
I felt threatened by them...
trapped...
The Doctor leads him through the process.
DOCTOR
You're doing very well. Let's try
to find out how you responded to
these feelings. Try to focus on
your actions...
(beat)
You felt trapped. What did you
do?
Riker thinks. Worf APPEARS in the room. He seems
furious -- at a high emotional pitch.
WORF
I was angry. They were attacking
me... I fought back...
TROI
I felt pain...
WORF
I was injured...
TROI
I began to panic...
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/17/93 - ACT FOUR 49.
48 CONTINUED: (2)
WORF
There was a struggle... and I...
Worf trails off.
RIKER
You what? What happened?
Worf and Troi are silent -- they don't have an answer.
Riker looks to the Doctor, agitated.
DOCTOR
(to Riker)
Try to associate your actions and
emotions with logical thoughts.
What do you think caused you to
act and feel this way... ?
Riker concentrates. Picard APPEARS in the room. He is
thoughtful, assured.
PICARD
It was dark and cold because... I
was outdoors... at night... in a
narrow space...
(thinks)
I was walking through an alley.
TROI
I felt threatened...
WORF
I was being watched...
PICARD
Someone must have followed me into
the alley. That's why I started
to walk faster. Then someone
grabbed me from behind...
TROI
I panicked...
WORF
I tried to fight them off...
RIKER
How many of them were there?
PICARD
Three. They were humanoid. I
could only make out one of their
faces...
RIKER
Who was it?
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FOUR 49A.
48 CONTINUED: (3)
Suddenly, the alien Lieutenant APPEARS. He stands
silently, staring at Riker. Riker is surprised by the
sight.
RIKER
(re: Lieutenant)
He was on the ship too... and I
saw him here in the hospital...
but I don't know who he is...
The Doctor looks curious.
DOCTOR
That's Mister Suna -- the hospital
Administrator. You met him when
you first arrived.
RIKER
What part of me does he represent?
DOCTOR
I don't know...
Suddenly, Picard and Worf all turn to Riker. Their
demeanors change -- they sound and act just like
themselves. It's an eerie moment...
TROI
Don't believe this, Wil.
(indicates room)
None of it is real. You're still
with us... on the Enterprise.
Riker is worried by this change in attitude.
RIKER
Doctor...
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FOUR 50.
48 CONTINUED: (4)
PICARD
We're your colleagues. Trust us.
It's going to be alright...
DOCTOR
(to Riker)
Do you have anything to say to
them?
RIKER
(to crew)
You're just... delusions...
WORF
(re: Doctor)
Do not listen to him, Commander.
He is trying to trick you. You
are in danger here. Let us help
you...
Riker's mind is reeling -- he's trying desperately to
hang on to what he believes to be the here and now.
RIKER
Stop it... please. Leave me
alone...
TROI
Listen to me, Wil. In all the
years we've known each other, have
I ever lied to you?
Riker glances between Troi and the Doctor, who is
waiting to see what he will do. Finally --
RIKER
(a shout)
You are not real!
PICARD
Wil, please --
RIKER
NO!
Picard, Troi, Worf and the alien Lieutenant VANISH.
Riker sags into his chair, exhausted. The Doctor looks
pleased.
DOCTOR
You've taken a big step today.
You've finally turned your back on
those delusions and all that they
represent.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FOUR 51.
47A CONTINUED: (5)
The Doctor deactivates the device and stands to go.
DOCTOR
We'll continue later.
Riker pulls a hand across his weary face. As he sits
silently, staring...
CUT TO:
49 INT. COMMON AREA
The next day. Various inmates engaged in various
activities. Riker sits alone at a table, eating food
from a tray. A silent moment as he eats, then
something across the room catches his eye...
50 INCLUDE BEVERLY
as she ENTERS the room. She is dressed in a hospital
doctor's uniform and holds a note-taking device. Very
official. She scans the room a moment, then spots
Riker --
Riker reacts, unnerved by the sight. Beverly starts to
approach him. He quickly shuts his eyes.
RIKER
(to himself)
It's not real...
He opens his eyes -- Beverly is sitting down at his
table. Riker looks down at his food and continues
eating, desperately trying to ignore her presence.
Beverly studies him, gauging his condition -- speaks in
an urgent whisper.
BEVERLY
(to Riker)
Commander... do you know who I am?
Riker doesn't respond -- keeps eating.
BEVERLY
Do you know where you are?
(no response)
If you can't answer, just listen.
You were on an undercover mission
to Tilonus Four... something
happened... we've been told that
you killed someone. But we don't
believe that's true...
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FOUR 52.
50 CONTINUED:
Beverly glances around to make sure no one's watching --
pulls out a tricorder and surreptitiously scans Riker.
BEVERLY
(continuing)
We've been in orbit, trying to
find a way to get you out. But
there's a security field around
the hospital that we can't
penetrate...
Riker eats faster, agitated, trying not to listen --
it's a struggle.
BEVERLY
(continuing)
We've been blocked at every turn.
The hospital Administrator denies
you're here at all. It's
beginning to look like some kind
of a conspiracy...
(beat)
I had to come in posing as a
health official...
She stands to go, looks at him with concern.
BEVERLY
(continuing)
Sit tight. We're going to get you
out of here.
She walks away. Riker breathes a sigh of relief. He
stares at his tray... unsettled by the incident...
RIKER
(quiet)
Not real...
OFF his troubled face...
51 INT. ASYLUM CELL
Later. The room is dark. Riker is lying in bed, eyes
closed, asleep. Gradually, a TAPPING NOISE can be
heard somewhere in the darkness. Riker opens his
eyes... listens a moment... then looks toward the
door...
Someone is trying to break in. Riker sits up, alarmed.
The tapping noise is followed by a CLACK and other
tampering sounds. Riker watches as the door starts to
OPEN -- slowly, as if someone is forcing it. Two hands
can be seen pulling the door apart...
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FOUR 53.
51 CONTINUED:
Data gets the door all the way open and ENTERS the
room. He's dressed in dark clothing. Worf quickly
follows, holding a phaser, also in dark clothing. They
scan the room, then spot Riker on the bed.
DATA
(whispers)
Commander.
They move to help him, but Riker jumps off the bed and
backs against a wall -- can hardly believe his eyes.
RIKER
Get away from me...
Data and Worf exchange a concerned look. Worf takes a
step toward Riker, speaks very carefully.
WORF
Commander, you must come with us.
You are in danger here...
RIKER
(louder)
No.
WORF
Silence...
Riker starts to say something, but Data quickly moves
in and GRABS him -- puts a hand over his mouth. Riker
struggles, to little effect. They lead him toward the
door...
52 INT. ASYLUM CORRIDOR - CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL)
Worf ENTERS the hall, looks around -- it's empty. Data
ENTERS holding Riker tightly by the arm. They quickly
move down the hall, Worf leading the way, keeping a
look-out...
Suddenly, Riker goes limp in Data's arms. Data looks
down at him, loosening his grip a little, concerned.
DATA
Commander, are you --
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FOUR 54.
52 CONTINUED:
Riker BREAKS OUT of Data's grip, taking him by
surprise. He bolts down the hall.
RIKER
(calls out)
Help me! HELP ME!
Worf goes to grab him. Mavek the Attendant and a
hospital Guard round a corner. The Guard immediately
draws his weapon, getting the drop on Worf, who stops.
Riker runs to the safety of the guards -- he looks like
he's coming unhinged.
OFF Data and Worf, who are stunned by the
development...
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FIVE 55.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
53 INT. ASYLUM CORRIDOR - CONTINUOUS
As before. Worf and Data facing Mavek and the Guard.
Riker looks on.
ATTENDANT
(to Worf, Data)
Who are you?
Worf just glares at him.
ATTENDANT
(to Guard)
Take them to Security Ward.
Suddenly, Data moves for the Guard, disarms the man and
easily KNOCKS him to the floor. Worf takes out Mavek
with a single well-timed PUNCH.
Riker makes a run for it, but Data GRABS him firmly by
the arms. As they lead Riker down the hall...
54 INT. COMMON AREA - NIGHT (OPTICAL)
After hours -- dark. Worf, Data and Riker ENTER and
cross to the middle of the room, where THREE PATTERN
ENHANCER DEVICES have been set up (as seen in "Power
Play"). Worf activates one of the enhancers and they
create a TRIANGLE OF LIGHT. Worf pulls out a
communicator.
WORF
(taps communicator)
Worf to Enterprise -- the pattern
enhancer has been activated.
Three to beam up.
N.D.'S COM VOICE
Acknowledged.
Riker struggles, but it's too late -- the three of them
DEMATERIALIZE.
55 INT. ENTERPRISE - SICKBAY (OPTICAL)
A few hours later. Picard looks on as Beverly scans
Riker with a medical tricorder.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/17/93 - ACT FIVE 56.
55 CONTINUED:
Riker sits on a bio-bed, silent, guarded, wary of
everything and everyone around him. He still does not
believe any of this is really happening. Worf stands
close by, alert.
Beverly turns to Picard.
BEVERLY
(to Picard, off
tricorder)
There's damage to his parietal
lobe. It's as if someone was
trying to access his long term
memory...
They watch Riker a moment.
BEVERLY
(re: Riker)
He's still in a state of severe
neural shock. It'll take him a
while to recover...
Picard moves to Riker, reaches out a comforting hand.
Riker jerks back, skittish.
PICARD
(gentle)
Number One... do you remember what
happened?
Riker tries to ignore him, tense.
PICARD
(continuing)
You were abducted during your
mission to Tilonus Four. You were
taken to a psychiatric hospital...
Riker glances at him, compelled by the words but not
wanting to believe it. Suddenly, he reacts to a pain
in the side of his head -- and we see that there is a
WOUND on his temple (as seen in Act One). It's
bleeding. Riker touches it, looks at the blood on his
hand.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FIVE 57.
55 CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER
My head... why is it still
bleeding?
Beverly eyes the wound, picks up a medical device.
BEVERLY
It's minor. Nothing to worry
about...
Beverly uses the device to OPTICALLY HEAL Riker's
wound.
PICARD
(to Riker)
We've done some checking on the
hospital Administrator...
RIKER
... Mister Suna...
PICARD
That's right. It appears he's
involved with one of the rival
factions. We believe he was
responsible for what happened to
you...
Riker considers the possibility -- then reacts to a
sharp pain in his temple, the same place as before.
RIKER
(re: head)
It still hurts...
A drip of blood trails down the side of his face.
Riker reacts -- touches his face: THE WOUND HAS
REAPPEARED. He reacts, startled -- how could that be?
RIKER
It's bleeding again...
(to Beverly)
But how? You just healed it...
Beverly eyes him.
BEVERLY
Wil, try to calm down...
Riker comes to a realization -- and a look of resolve
crosses his face.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FIVE 57A.
55 CONTINUED: (3)
RIKER
This isn't real...
With that, he lunges for a nearby MEDICAL KIT. Worf
tries to stop him but Riker SMASHES the kit against the
side of Worf's head. Worf staggers back, and he as he
does, Riker grabs his phaser. Picard makes a move but
stops when Riker trains the phaser on him.
Nobody moves.
PICARD
Wil, what are you doing?
Riker's hands are shaking -- he's determined to shatter
this reality.
RIKER
If I'm right, you're not really
here... and this isn't a real
phaser...
(beat)
It's all a fantasy, and I'm ending
it no matter what it takes...
Picard takes a step toward him.
PICARD
But what if this isn't a fantasy?
Are you willing to take that
chance?
Riker hesitates, lowers the phaser slightly...
RIKER
You're right... I won't. But I've
got to find out what's real and
what's not...
Riker turns the phaser on himself.
RIKER
One way or another, this is going
to end.
BEVERLY
Wil, don't -- !
Riker FIRES. The blast has no effect on him -- at that
instant:
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FIVE 57B.
56 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)
AS THE ENTIRE ROOM SHATTERS LIKE BREAKING GLASS AROUND
RIKER -- "REALITY" BREAKING APART -- THE SCENE
SPLINTERING AWAY TO REVEAL:
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - REV. 02/17/93 - ACT FIVE 58.
57 INT. ASYLUM CELL - CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL)
Riker standing in the exact same position, arms hanging
at his side -- his head wound is gone. The alien
Lieutenant is standing in front of him, dressed as the
hospital Administrator (as seen in Act Two). Doctor
Syrus and Mavek stand nearby. Riker glances around,
startled by the change in setting.
ADMINISTRATOR
(re: Riker)
How's he progressing?
DOCTOR
He's not responding to the
Reflection Therapy. His delusions
are growing more elaborate...
ATTENDANT
He broke out of his cell last
night. We found him running down
a corridor... claiming people had
come to take him back to his
"starship."
A grim beat.
ADMINISTRATOR
Then I see no other choice...
(beat)
We'll have to perform the synaptic
reconstruction.
Riker senses something odd -- looks down at his hand.
HE IS STILL HOLDING THE PHASER. He reacts, startled --
aims the phaser at the others.
RIKER
I still have the phaser... why do
I still have the phaser?
ADMINISTRATOR
It's not a phaser. It's a knife.
You stole it from one of the food
trays.
(beat)
Give it to me. We don't want you
to hurt yourself...
Riker hesitates, unsure, then --
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FIVE 59.
57A NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)
As a trickle of blood runs down Riker's face -- THE
WOUND HAS REAPPEARED ON HIS TEMPLE. Riker touches the
wound, and it shocks him into awareness. He aims the
phaser at the Attendant.
RIKER
I don't believe you --
Riker FIRES, VAPORIZING the Attendant. The Doctor and
the Administrator/Lieutenant react, shocked. Riker
smiles -- he's feeling more confident...
RIKER
(re: phaser)
If this is a knife... what
happened to Mavek?
The Administrator/Lieutenant tries to stay in control
of the situation.
ADMINISTRATOR
It's very complicated. I'll
answer all of your questions. But
first I want you to put it down...
RIKER
No. If I'm really holding a
phaser, then that means I was on
the Enterprise...
He realizes the implications, stares at the phaser.
RIKER
But I fired this at myself on the
Enterprise. I should be dead
right now...
Riker looks around the room, trying to put it all
together.
RIKER
None of this is real --
58 INSERT: THE PHASER
as Riker presses a few buttons.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FIVE 59A.
59 RESUME (OPTICAL)
RIKER
I'm setting this to Level Sixteen,
wide field. That should destroy
half of this building...
(beat)
Unless, of course, it isn't a real
phaser.
Riker FIRES an IMMENSE BLAST --
60 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)
AS THE ENTIRE ROOM SHATTERS LIKE BREAKING GLASS AROUND
RIKER AND THE ALIEN ADMINISTRATOR/LIEUTENANT --
"REALITY" BREAKING APART -- THE SCENE SPLINTERING AWAY
TO REVEAL:
61 INT. ENTERPRISE - ASYLUM CELL/THEATER - CONTINUOUS
Riker (wound gone) and the Administrator/Lieutenant now
standing face to face on the stage set. Riker looks
around --
62 INCLUDE - THE AUDIENCE
Filled with people: Picard, Data, Worf, Geordi,
Beverly, Troi -- the entire Enterprise crew, and more:
Doctor Syrus, Mavek. Nearly everyone Riker saw during
the last five Acts is present, watching the stage
intently.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FIVE 60.
62 CONTINUED:
Riker is more confused than ever, but he's determined
to get to the bottom of this. He turns to the
Administrator/Lieutenant.
RIKER
It's all about you, isn't it?
You're the only constant... the
only person in both places...
ADMINISTRATOR
There's a lot more going on here
than you realize.
Riker glances toward the audience.
RIKER
None of this is real, either...
(beat)
What's happening to me?
The administrator/Lieutenant steps toward him.
ADMINISTRATOR
We can still save you -- but you
must stop fighting us.
Riker hesitates, unsure for a moment -- then he reacts
to a pain in the side of his head.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FIVE 61.
62A NEW ANGLE
as a trickle of blood runs down the side of his face.
THE WOUND HAS REAPPEARED. Riker reacts, touches the
wound. It seems to jolt him into awareness. He looks
up, defiant.
RIKER
You're lying...
ADMINISTRATOR
Let me help you...
RIKER
(yells)
No!
The audience reacts with a smattering of APPLAUSE.
Riker glances at them, encouraged.
ADMINISTRATOR
I'm warning you...
RIKER
No!
Riker loses control -- he SHOVES the
Administrator/Lieutenant aside and heads for the back
wall of the stage set. The audience CHEERS and starts
to get to its feet. Determined to break out of this
reality, driven by the applause, Riker PUNCHES both
fists toward the back wall --
62B NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)
AS EVERYTHING SHATTERS LIKE BREAKING GLASS, INCLUDING
RIKER AND THE ADMINISTRATOR/LIEUTENANT -- "REALITY"
BREAKING APART ONE FINAL TIME TO REVEAL:
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/17/93 - ACT FIVE 62.
63 INT. ALIEN LAB
Riker bolts awake. He looks around, sees that he is
lying on an EXAMINATION TABLE. An alien MEDICAL
APPARATUS is above him -- a PROBE is connected to the
side of his head at the exact spot where the wound has
appeared all along. He is dressed in the Tilonus
merchant costume seen in Act One. He turns to see:
64 INCLUDE - THE ROOM (OPTICAL)
It's a redress of the Asylum Cell -- rigged with
various alien medical equipment. The
Administrator/Lieutenant is working at a console that
displays a GRAPHIC of a HUMAN BRAIN. The mood is
different here -- THIS IS REALITY.
The Administrator/Lieutenant turns, sees that Riker is
awake, yells to someone offscreen:
ADMINISTRATOR
(urgent)
He's conscious!
The Administrator/Lieutenant rushes to Riker and tries
to pin him down. Riker struggles. An ALIEN ASSISTANT
moves into view.
ADMINISTRATOR
(to assistant)
We haven't finished the neuro
chemical drain -- get him sedated!
The Assistant moves for him -- but Riker KICKS him
squarely in the head, knocking him unconscious and to
the floor. Riker tears the probe away from his head,
revealing a nasty-looking wound -- blood trails down
his face. He quickly scans the room -- spots a nearby
table --
INCLUDE the table, which contains the tricorder, water
bottle, nisroh knife and the pendant/communicator seen
in Act One. Before the Administrator can stop him,
Riker grabs the knife and turns it on the Administrator --
holds it close to his neck, threatening. The
Administrator stops. Riker grabs the pendant --
RIKER
(taps pendant)
Riker to Enterprise!
Beat.
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - REV. 02/17/93 - ACT FIVE 63.
64 CONTINUED:
WORF'S COM VOICE
Enterprise here. Are you alright,
sir?
RIKER
Emergency transport -- get me out
of here!
Riker DEMATERIALIZES. OFF the Administrator's
frustrated reaction...
CUT TO:
65 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
at impulse.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's Log, Stardate 46778.1.
Commander Riker has returned
safely from his mission to Tilonus
Four, where he was being held
captive by one of the rival
factions. Doctor Crusher has
repaired the damage to his long
term memory. His recovery is
proceeding well.
65A INT. READY ROOM
A couple of days have passed. Riker looks rested and
in good health. He's sitting with Picard and Troi, midconversation.
PICARD
(to Riker)
Evidently, you were abducted two
days after beaming to the surface.
RIKER
I remember it now... I was in an
alley... they attacked me from
behind. I tried to defend myself
with the nisroh knife Worf gave
me...
(beat)
I managed to fight off one of
them... but I think they injected
me with some kind of drug...
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FIVE 63A.
65 CONTINUED:
PICARD
We believe they were trying to
extract strategic information from
your memory using a neuro-somatic
technique.
Riker considers, disturbed.
RIKER
I was in a hospital... then on the
Enterprise... and the hospital
again...
(beat)
I kept shifting back and forth...
I couldn't tell what was real...
TROI
Your mind must have created a
defense mechanism, a fantasy that
helped you resist the neuro-somatic
process. Your unconscious
fastened onto elements from your
real life in an attempt to keep
you grounded... to keep you sane.
RIKER
(onto the idea)
The preparation for the mission...
the play... they were all recent
experiences, fresh in my mind...
Troi nods. A thoughtful beat.
PICARD
Get some rest, Number One. We can
talk more in the morning.
RIKER
Alright... but there's one thing
I'd like to do first...
STAR TREK: "Frame of Mind" - 02/16/93 - ACT FIVE 64.
66 INT. ASYLUM CELL/THEATER
Riker and Beverly standing on the stage set. They are
alone. Riker is eyeing the stage intently.
BEVERLY
Are you sure you want to do this
by yourself? The stage crew and
I were going to wait until
morning...
RIKER
I'm positive. After what I've
experienced... I don't think I
could sleep knowing this was still
up...
Riker moves to a stage wall and removes a piece of the
set, starting to break it down. He drops the piece to
the floor, satisfied. Beverly smiles gently and EXITS.
Riker considers the stage for a long beat... reflecting
on his experience... then continues to break it down.
As he works...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END
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