Indemnity (2021) Movie Script
- (helicopter whirring)
- (siren wailing)
(indistinct clamor)
(people screaming)
(fire crackling)
(respirator hissing)
(indistinct chatter)
(indistinct clamor)
(yells in Afrikaans)
- My baby! My baby!
- (glass shattering)
Firefighter 1: Captain,
there's an open gas line.
It's not safe.
Firefighter 2: Theo!
Theo: We are not leaving
a baby to die. Let's go!
- (respirator hissing)
- (fire crackling)
(baby crying)
(gasps)
- (breathes heavily)
- (indistinct chatter over TV)
...who was killed
in a tragic car accident
last night
when the vehicle lost control,
- crashing into...
- (TV powers off)
(crickets chirping)
(exhales heavily)
(inhales, exhales)
(exhales deeply)
Theo?
(door opens)
Angela: Theo?
- Theo?
- (gasps, grunts)
(groans)
(in Afrikaans)
No, leave me alone.
- Theo: Angie?
- (grunts)
(breathes heavily)
(grunts)
(gun cocks)
(phone vibrating)
- Hello?
- Sam over phone: Mikaela...
- (panting)
- What?
Now, Mikaela, go!
Sam?
(gunshots)
(gunshots)
(grunts)
(grunts)
(grunts)
- (gunshots)
- (Sam groans)
(keys rattling)
- (glass shattering)
- (screams)
(leaves crunching)
(in Afrikaans) M-Techs systems
are supposedly impenetrable.
But you hacked them three times
in the last six months.
Sensitive stuff that you stole.
Highly classified intelligence.
You only get your hands
on documents like those
if you know exactly where to find them.
So...
(clears throat)
whos your source?
- (chair scraping)
- (exhales)
(mouse clicks)
(monitor chimes)
Do you know what happens
when a human body burns?
- Hmm?
- (whimpers)
Do you?
Your muscles melt first
and that exposes your nerve endings.
Its so unbearably painful that
your brain goes into shock
and your heart stops,
and within seconds
youre dead as a doornail.
But...
Yes, this stuff keeps that shock at bay.
(chuckles)
(in English) Shh!
Hey, hey, hey, hey!
- (muffled groan)
- (shushing)
(in Afrikaans)
And you feel everything.
And best of all, the best part is
that we can do it over and over again.
As long as it takes,
until you start talking.
Come now, come, come...
(in English) Please!
Please, don't do this. Please!
(screams) Please don't do this.
- (shushes)
- (sobs, screams)
(in Afrikaans) Mikaela, listen. Im going
to be honest with you, okay?
Theres no question
of you leaving here alive, okay?
The only question you need to answer
is how much pain...
youre willing to experience
before you die.
(whimpering)
(chuckles)
Okay. Hey!
Samuel Isaacs.
He worked for M-Tech in the '90s,
doing research
and development out of Joburg.
Hes the one that wants
to expose everything,
the one weve been looking for all along.
Man on phone:
Wheres he now?
Were on his trail.
Man on phone: Jesus, Ernst, I thought you had him.
What does he have?
Enough. Doesnt matter.
He wont have a chance to use it.
Theo: Wes...
eat your breakfast.
Otherwise youll be late for school.
I dont mind.
(dog barking in distance)
Just give me the money,
thats way easier, isnt it?
Thats not how it works, Wesley,
and you know it.
Come on, Mommy,
I know the Tooth Fairy is a hoax.
Says who?
Says everyone and if shes real,
where was she last night?
Maybe shell come tonight.
Im too old for that stuff.
I mean, a real Tooth Fairy would be fair,
and leave at least R20 for a tooth.
R5 is peanuts.
Hello? Are you saying
the Tooth Fairy is stingy?
No, Im saying you are.
- Wesley, go brush your teeth.
- Already done.
(sighs)
Please, drop it now, Angie.
Not all of us can afford that attitude.
- Be good, my baby.
- I always am.
I know, thats why youre my number one,
my champ.
Hmm?
Do you know who just popped in
while you were in the bathroom?
Do you? The Tooth Fairy.
- Dont spend it all at once, okay?
- I cant make any promises.
Lets go.
(door opens)
Theo...
good luck today.
(door closes)
(siren wailing)
(in English) Okay. Yeah?
(knocking on door)
Eddie, I'm gonna call you back
in a minute.
(sighs) Theo Abrams.
You look like shit.
- You got fat.
- (chuckles)
Bloody hell.
- I've missed you.
- I've missed you too, man.
Looks like you're managing
just fine without me.
Eh...
I, um... (clears throat)
I just saw two trucks
heading into town.
Yeah. Flare-up on the mountain,
so we're relief support.
Did you say howzit to the guys?
Hmm.
(sighs) How are things?
(scoffs)
I'm good. I'm fine.
I, uh, took the time off
as I was asked.
But now I'm ready to come back.
You know my hands are tied
until psych clears you.
Ugh, come on, Moses,
you know I don't need a shrink.
You still getting
those blackouts?
I'm fine.
What does Angie think?
You're not gonna
wanna hear this. (clears throat)
But I've been asked to find
a permanent replacement for you.
The District Chief's
been informed that you're...
you're resisting treatment.
Yes, because it's a fucking
waste of time, Moses.
It's not weak to ask for help.
How many times
have we seen this?
Guys who'd rather sit back
and watch their lives
fall apart
instead of getting the help
that they need.
We soldier on, even though
we know we shouldn't.
Now, ask yourself,
how does it always end up?
If you're as fine
as you say you are...
then get the doc
to give you your clearance.
Theo! We have
a civic responsibility
to ensure our ability
to help others.
How am I, how is anyone
supposed to help you
if you won't help yourself?
- It's good to see you too.
- (siren wailing in distance)
Chief.
- (plates clatter)
- (phone vibrating)
(phone beeps)
(in Afrikaans)
Hello, this is Angela Abrams.
- Hello?
- Can I speak to Theo Abrams?
Sorry, you just missed him.
He left his phone at home.
- Can I take a message?
- Sam: When will he be back?
Im not sure.
Anything I can help you with?
- Hello?
- Sam: Youre a journalist
for the Cape Atlantic.
Thats right. To whom am I speaking?
A friend. I have a lead for you.
- It involves your husband.
- What about him?
Sam: He needs our help, Angela.
Can you and I meet? Its urgent.
Okay, take down my email address,
then we can...
We dont have that kind of time.
You have to trust me.
Meet me at 11:00 a.m., Pier place,
on Adderley, and come alone, right?
- Your husbands life depends on it.
- Who the hell are you?
(phone beeps)
(phone vibrating)
(dog barking in distance)
Gillian:
Im glad you phoned me, Theo. Thank you.
I should be thanking you, Doc.
I know its short notice.
How are you?
How are things at home?
The last time I saw you, you were ashamed,
because you felt
you didnt deserve to live,
that you should have died in that fire.
I know what I said.
Thats why I lost my job, isnt it?
Do you still feel that way?
What do you think?
I think youre here...
and thats a good start, at least.
You know how this works, Theo.
The computer sends signals to your brain
that stimulate your subconscious.
Okay?
The sensors do all the work.
All you need to do is relax. Okay?
(high-pitched frequency)
- (fire crackling)
- (baby crying)
- (screams)
- (fire crackling)
- (gasping, panting)
- Gillian: Theo. Breathe. Youre safe, Im here.
Youre safe.
You have to relive this trauma.
(high-frequency noise ringing)
That way, over time, your brain
can minimize the emotional pain.
Then we can manage it.
But it wont work if you fight against it.
Trust my process, Theo.
(cars honking)
Lets go this way.
Angela: Sir,
I hate cloak-and-dagger stuff like this.
And once someone threatens my family...
Listen, Angela. You can trust me.
Your husband needs my help,
and I need yours, so...
So, take a seat.
Please?
Who are you?
My name is Sam.
Ill get straight to the point.
I have proof
of a huge government conspiracy.
Im talking about
the higher ups higher ups.
- Youre familiar with M-Tech?
- An army contractor?
Not a contractor, the contractor.
Murder, treason, you name it.
And theyll do anything to stop me,
because I have proof.
And Im at the end of my rope.
But we shouldnt actually be talking here.
Its not safe here.
- Whats your ETA?
- Were almost there.
Do not lose them.
Please, start from the beginning.
You said my husbands life is in danger.
Yes. A long time ago, I worked for M-Tech.
Research and development.
The things I saw during those two years.
Some people will do anything in the name
of national security.
Im talking about assassinations,
biological weapons,
extreme defense initiatives.
The type of stuff that would give
you nightmares.
Fourteen years. Thats how long
Ive been trying to expose them,
but theyre always one step ahead of me.
Last night.
They killed my partner last night.
What?
The woman who was helping me
find the classified documents.
The last thing she gave me, right?
Is a list with a bunch
of detailed profiles
of people all across Africa.
Theyre seemingly unconnected,
except for this,
theyre either dead, or in jail.
Your husbands name is on
that list, Angela,
and I promise you, its not a mistake.
Our times up. Check out that black BM,
theyre looking for me.
Listen, I havent been able to work out
the connection with your husband,
but only 11 of the people on that list
are in the Cape and hes one of them.
Ive tried contacting the rest.
Two are behind bars,
three are already dead,
and the others have just disappeared.
Your husband is a target.
Why and for what reason, I dont know.
All I ask of you now, Angela,
is to trust me.
(engine revs)
- (groans)
- (glass shattering)
(pants)
(pills rattling)
Daddy?
Wesley, shouldnt you be in bed?
Wheres mommy?
(pants)
Okay, mommy will be here soon, okay?
Okay?
Come on, go back to bed.
(glass clatters)
(tone beeps)
Angela over phone: Hi,
you've reached Angela Abrams,
please leave a message
and I'll get back to you.
- (exhales)
- (phone beeps)
Angie, its me again. Where are you?
Let me know where you are, please.
Its getting late.
- (crickets chirping)
- (car engine revving)
(car door opens, shuts)
(gasps)
- You scared me!
- What are you busy with, Angie?
- Hi, Theo.
- Hi. Where were you?
- I had something important to do.
- Angie, Ive been phoning you all day,
but apparently my own wife
doesnt answer my calls.
Angie?
Angie?
Angie? What are you doing?
- Wheres Wesley?
- Wesleys sleeping, has been for ages.
Angie, where were you?
And what are you putting in that box?
Angie!
Angela: Come.
I got a call this morning.
He was actually looking for you.
To let you know your life is in danger.
What?
He asked to meet with me,
so I went to see him.
Wait, wait, who? Whats his name?
Sam. Samuel Isaacs. He worked
for M-Tech a long time ago.
Samuel... What is M-Tech?
The big defense contractor.
Sam showed me a file, Theo.
The file that M-Tech has on you
is full of personal info.
Okay, like what?
Your whole life, our life, its all there.
Inside the metadata of an account
thats linked to M-Tech.
I dont understand what youre telling me.
Im still trying
to process everything myself.
That metadata has the same kind
of info on 463 people.
People with no connection to one another,
completely random, except...
Except what?
About half the people are either dead...
or in jail.
(scoffs)
Okay. For what?
Murder.
Attempted murder.
Its not always the same.
Sam thinks its linked to a program
at M-Tech.
Something to do with assassinations.
If its true, its beyond horrifying.
And a massive story,
so Im preparing to publish all of it,
the government will have to investigate.
- To me, the whole sounds...
- Totally crazy,
- yes.
- Yes.
I know, Theo, but I saw the evidence
Sam has.
He used to work for M-Tech
and he has solid inside info.
Names, accounts, testimonies.
Its all there.
It points to a conspiracy
at the highest levels.
And if we dont do something now...
What does this whole thing have to do
with me? I mean, I... (stutters)
I dont know yet.
Okay, Angie, what if all of this is just
a bunch of nonsense?
What if this is just some crazy guy...
Of course,
that was my first thought, Theo.
But what about the alternative?
- Okay, whats the alternative?
- What if all of its true,
and they come looking for you?
(exhales)
Theo, just go take a shower,
then we can talk, once youre sober.
Angie, Angie, Angie.
(stutters)
Dont be judgmental, please.
All right? Youre not the one
that lost their job today, I am.
I lost my job, not you. Right?
After I was forced to see
the psychiatrist...
- Forced?
- I was forced, Angie.
Theo, your PTSD
is only getting worse, I can tell.
- Oh, my PTSD, is that right?
- Every night its more nightmares
- and more blackouts.
- Yes, yes...
The guys want you to open up
about what happened...
- Oh, the guys...
- Talk, so that you can heal
and be my husband again!
I am your husband,
and Im standing right in front of you.
- No, no, Theo, youre not.
- Where am I then?
Im all alone
and youre drinking the day away.
- Like thats an original solution.
- Oh, I drink the day away?
I do nothing but drink?
- Yes, Theo!
- Fuck you! Yes, fuck you!
(drawer thuds)
Mommy?
Angela: Mm-hmm?
Are you and daddy getting divorced?
Of course not, my dear.
Adults argue sometimes,
but we still love each other.
And you.
Why is daddy always so angry?
Your dad is going through
a very tough time, Wes.
But hes doing his best.
Close your eyes now.
(smooches)
I love you.
Angie, Im sorry.
I didnt mean it.
You have to believe me, please.
Trust me.
Do you even trust yourself, Theo?
(cries)
(sobs)
(smooches)
(baby crying distantly)
Theo: (in English) We are not
leaving a baby to die.
- (flames rage)
- (baby crying)
(machine beeping)
- (screams, groans)
- (screams)
(pants)
(continues panting)
(in Afrikaans)
Youre up early, Angie.
Angie?
(breathing heavily)
Angie?
(pants, breathes heavily)
Angie!
(pants)
(in English) Come on, Angie,
come on, come on! No! No!
No!
(cries, screams) No!
(cries loudly)
(screams)
Daddy?
(whispers) Hey. Hey.
- (pants)
- (knock on door)
Officer 1:
Police! Open the door!
(knock on door)
Officer 1:
Open this door immediately!
Police!
Open up!
Wheres your wife?
(grunts)
Officer 2:
Stay where you are.
Step away from that child.
Im going to tell you one more time,
get away from that child! Now!
He killed his wife.
Give me the child. Let go of the child!
Give the child to me.
- Leave the child alone!
- Let go of me!
(grunts, gasps)
You are arrested on murder charges.
You have the right to remain silent.
Anything you say
can be used against you...
(sighs)
(in English) Mr. Abrams?
I am Detective Williamson.
Can you tell me what happened?
Mr. Abrams.
(exhales)
(in Afrikaans)
I dont know, I... I cant...
- Wheres my son?
- Hes speaking to another detective.
Is there anyone we can contact?
Wesley,
everything will be all right, okay?
Dont worry.
Everything will be all right, Wesley.
Wheres he going?
- Where are you taking him?
- Rene: Mr. Abrams...
I didnt do it. I didnt do anything.
Id never hurt my Angie,
you have to believe me.
Id never hurt Angie, please.
You have to believe me!
Why would I hurt Angie? I love her.
I love Angie, please. Please.
Please.
(car tires squealing)
(car doors open, shut)
(car doors shut)
Man: Psst.
(grunts)
No, hey, no!
No, hey, no!
- (grunts)
- Help!
- (groans)
- Help!
(groans, grunts)
- Jack!
- (tires screeching)
(groans)
(groans, pants)
(groans)
Stand back! Stand back! Stop moving!
Hands in the air!
Hands behind your head!
Stay where you are!
(yelling indistinctly)
(grunts)
(in English) I want an APB
across all channels.
I want units
patrolling every hospital,
every clinic in the area,
because if he's injured,
he's going to need
medical attention.
Lock a perimeter
around the city.
How the hell did that happen?
(breathes heavily)
(indistinct chatter)
(groans)
(groans, pants)
(groans)
Rene: (in English)
Theodore Abrams.
Deputy Station Commander
at Salt River fire station.
Now, we received
a tip-off this morning
about some suspected
domestic violence at his home.
When our units arrived,
we found his wife
has been murdered.
Theo was arrested
as a prime suspect,
but he has
since escaped custody,
killing four of our men.
And one more person,
who was in police custody.
Now, the man is considered
to be armed and dangerous.
Not only is he
the deputy station commander,
but he's trained
in emergency operations,
search and rescue.
He's done three years
with the SANDF fire academy
and he volunteers,
self-defense training
in some of our own units.
The man is an impressive target.
On any other day,
we'd be celebrating him.
(in Afrikaans) How are we going to approach
this thing? No, sit, sit, sit, sit.
General Shard, I didnt think you would...
Relax, Williamson, relax.
Mike Richards and Julian Tsepe
were two of my captains.
Im doing this for them.
I understand the victim
was a journalist, yes?
Yes, the online reporter
for the Cape Atlantic.
That means the media will want
to ride this thing, long and hard.
We have to keep them at a distance.
(police siren wailing)
Hello, Captain.
(in English) I heard
you popped by yesterday.
- Didn't even come and say hi?
- Sorry, man, I, uh...
You guys looking after
Archie for me?
It's us that need looking after,
you must see
the man's latest squeeze, Cap.
A granny from Crawford.
(chuckles)
I told you,
she didn't even look 50.
And it's Rondebosch East.
Anyway, you back, or what, Cap?
(in Afrikaans) No, I...
Im going to have a quick chat
with the Chief, okay?
See you guys later, okay?
(in English) You know, your mom
never really loved you, huh?
Bro, what the hell?
Talking about my squeeze
looks 50,
- you mad?
- Hey, hey!
Theo, what the hell happened?
Car accident.
Tobie, please give me a minute.
Yeah.
(in Afrikaans) One of his neighbors phoned
this morning, anonymously.
Apparently he heard
the woman screaming, around 6:45.
Two of our units were sent out
to the house.
- Wheres the coroners report?
- Were still waiting.
But she was clearly strangled,
its asphyxiation.
Is that your expert opinion?
- (scoffs) General, its a slam-dunk case.
- Its a manhunt.
Every little mistake we make now
leads to another murder.
From now on, all leads are to be reported
to me directly.
(in English) You have got
to tell me what's going on.
I can't help you
if you don't tell me
what's going on.
Trust me...
It's better if you don't know.
(man over P.A.)
...the Pretorius street area
around ten o'clock
this morning.
Theo Abrams is considered
armed and dangerous.
- What did he say?
- (man over P.A.) Wanted
in connection
with multiple homicides,
including four SAPS officers.
Anyone with information
on the suspect
can report to Central
or call the SAPS
emergency crime hotline.
(in Afrikaans) Whats wrong?
(telephone ringing)
(in English) Wait.
What the hell are you doing
with a gun, Theo?
- (hangs up phone)
- I...
(telephone ringing)
Moses, stop. Moses.
Please, stop.
- What is going on?
- (phone continues ringing)
Someone tried to kill me, Moses.
Call that crime hotline.
Moses: What do you mean,
someone tried to kill you?
Theo, talk to me, please.
Hey!
(speaking Afrikaans
indistinctly)
(grunts)
No one needs to know about this.
- We can call Angie...
- Angie's dead, Moses!
She's dead!
- (indistinct chatter)
- (gunshots)
(mumbles indistinctly)
I had no choice!
Moses: Let me help you.
But first you have to
let me have the gun.
- No.
- Please, give me the gun.
I'm... I'm sorry.
- (cries)
- (alarm beeping)
(gunshots)
(groans)
Hold it there,
hold it there, hold it there.
(phone beeping)
(alarm continues beeping)
(indistinct chatter over P.A.)
Shit. Fuck.
(groaning)
(grunting)
(groans)
(groans)
- (grunts)
- (groans)
- (grunts)
- (groans)
(grunts)
- (police siren wailing)
- (pants)
Hey!
Hey, Moses. Hey, hey.
I'm here, I'm here, I'm here.
It's okay. It's okay, it's okay.
Hey, hey. Hang in there, okay?
You hang in there.
Hey, help is here,
help is here, okay?
(alarm continues beeping)
Whoever did this,
I'm gonna find them. Okay?
I'll see you soon.
(cars honking)
(breathes heavily)
(cars honking)
(car chimes)
- (indistinct chatter)
- (car engine starts)
(exhales)
Man on phone: (in Afrikaans)
Are you done?
Hey, you. Who are you?
Hey, speak.
- (phone chimes)
- 141 Ferndale Road.
141 Ferndale Road.
The station commander
is in a critical condition,
but hes alive.
This is a massacre, nothing less.
We need to catch this guy today,
you hear me?
Theo Abrams saved 198 people
in four years.
And another 25 since he became captain.
- His colleagues see him as a hero.
- So, what are you trying to say?
Hes been on mandatory leave
for five months,
after he lost two of his friends
in a fire.
And, according to his file,
there have been two incidents at his home,
apparently domestic disturbance.
And his neighbors,
they say hes been aggressive lately.
They dont know him
to usually be that way.
- All since that specific fire.
- What are you getting at?
Its obvious, General.
PTSD.
Thats why he was on mandatory leave.
Perhaps even why he murdered his wife.
General, the guys
from the fire department.
They see the same horrors we do.
Probably worse.
- How is that relevant?
- It is relevant,
because they have to power through.
Because the public relies on them,
just like the police.
General, here it is, black on white.
We can use it to expose
this cycle of trauma.
Perhaps put systems in place to ensure...
No one gives a wit about PTSD.
You should know that.
The public expects the police
to protect them.
They dont want to know
that we cant even protect ourselves.
Theo Abrams is not a victim.
Hes a murderer and thats that.
I found out who his psychiatrist is.
We have to go see her.
Maybe she can help us figure out
whats going on in his head.
All right, all right,
make the appointment.
But send out a press release.
I want Theo Abrams face
on every TV news channel,
every radio station, on the front page.
If he tweets something,
I want to know about it.
This bastard isnt going to hide from us.
I thought you wanted to keep the media
at a distance, General.
(scoffs) Its too late for that.
(telephone ringing)
(in English)
Excuse me, sir, can I help you?
Yeah, no, I'm fine,
I'm actually just visiting
a friend, that's all.
All guests are required
to sign in
for security purposes.
This way, please.
Who are you visiting today, sir?
Um... I'm, uh, I...
- Uh...
- Sir?
(exhales) Ma'am,
put down the phone.
Uh, Sir, I have to call
the staff you're visiting
so that he or she can come
fetch you,
we don't allow
visitors in unattended.
- Security...
- Okay. (sniffles)
Put down the phone, now.
So, in every way
that this ends badly for me,
it ends badly for you,
do you understand? Good.
Now...
The security control room.
Take me there.
Now.
(in Afrikaans)
Fourteen hours ago, okay.
Black BMW.
Damn it.
(sighs)
Okay.
(in English)
Where's that?
- Service entrance.
- (speaking Afrikaans)
(breathing heavily)
There are hallway cameras. Okay.
(in Afrikaans)
You clever bastard.
(in English)
This feed's on a loop.
These timecodes don't add up.
Okay. Okay.
I need a list of every person
living on the 16th floor
for the last week. Okay?
Can you get me that list?
Yes? Or this ends badly for him.
No, no, please, okay,
it's fine, I'll go. But, um...
I need to get it
from the front desk.
You have two minutes, okay?
Two minutes.
And bring a master key with you,
you understand?
- Okay? Go, go, go.
- Okay.
Alan: (in Afrikaans) I have great appreciation
and understanding for you, Doctor...
as a volunteer who does so much good work
with people in the public service.
Your work is highly regarded,
- but...
- But some people
dont believe in the process.
Do you know how many times
Ive seen it happen?
Ive lost friends, good friends.
And the problem
wasnt a lack of support, or systems,
or trauma counselling.
The problem was pride.
Who wants to be seen as a weakling?
And here we have Theo Abrams now.
How many more people need
to die for his pride?
Hes had opportunities
for counselling, yes?
And he refused.
- Correct?
- Trauma isnt rational, General.
And youre confusing pride
with shame or fear.
I understand theres much at stake, but...
But the bodies are piling up.
No one wants another death.
Just help us find Theo.
You want me to discuss a patient. It's...
its not only unethical, its illegal.
And if your patient kills 15 people
in cold blood?
Confidentiality is nonnegotiable.
Captain, you were in this chair yourself,
only recently.
How would you feel if I told a stranger
your deepest, most painful secrets?
With all due respect, Doctor,
Rene didnt kill 15 people today.
(in English) Give me the key.
Give me the key. (pants)
- You...
- (gasps)
(shushes)
It's okay, don't worry.
Hey, it's okay, don't worry.
- No... no, please.
- Get in, get in. Get in.
I'm so sorry, I'm so sorry.
It's okay, it's okay.
- Okay. Shit.
- (gun clanks)
(breathes heavily)
- (indistinct chatter)
- (crockery clanking)
(elevator dinging)
(elevator bell ringing)
(elevator dinging)
- (knocks on door)
- (indistinct chatter over TV)
- Yes?
- Uh, sorry.
(door shuts)
(knocks on door)
(knocks on door)
(door lock chimes)
(indistinct chatter over TV)
(breathes heavily)
(continues breathing heavily)
(exhales heavily)
- Theo: (in Afrikaans) Whats his name?
- Samuel Isaacs.
Angela:
He worked for M-Tech a long time ago.
I got a call this morning.
Saying your life is in danger.
News anchor: Authorities are still searching
for Theo Abrams,
a fire fighter from Cape Town.
Abrams leaves behind a trail of carnage
that started with the gruesome murder
of his wife,
the respected journalist, Angela Abrams.
Four police officers
and nine firefighters...
(breathing heavily)
Angela: Sam thinks its linked to a program
at M-Tech.
Something to do with assassinations.
(breathes heavily)
Wheres the laptop? Wheres the laptop?
(pants)
(elevator dings)
- (groans, grunts)
- (groans)
(grunts)
(groans)
(groans)
Who the fuck are you? Who?
- (knife slashing)
- (groans, grunts)
- (groans, screams)
- (grunts)
Who the fuck are you?
Was it you who killed my wife
and tried to frame me?
Do you work for M-Tech?
- (groans)
- (grunts)
Thought so, stupid bitch.
Im going to find out whos responsible
for this.
Then youre all going to pay.
Take the stairs.
(speaking Afrikaans
indistinctly)
Out the way, get out of the way.
It wasnt me.
The whole thing is a setup,
someones trying to frame me.
It doesnt seem that way to me.
But lets assume youre telling the truth.
Put down that weapon,
then you explain it to me.
Mr. Abrams, please.
Too many people have already died today.
It can end now, if you help me.
Your choice.
Rene: Theo.
We met at your house.
I just want to tell you something.
My husband shot at my daughter and I.
He wanted to kill us.
But he only managed that with one person,
himself.
And I know. I know hes in a better place.
And that he regrets what he did.
He was a good man.
He just couldnt protect himself
from himself.
But you, Theo, you can protect Wesley.
All he wants is his dad.
And if you try to flee again,
it can only end one way.
What becomes of your son then?
Theo, please.
Dont make an orphan of him.
You know all too well how that feels.
Alan: Open the door!
You cant get away, open up.
Theo, open up!
(pants)
(grunts)
(grunts)
(grunts)
Bastard.
(grunts)
(grunts, groans)
Fuck.
- (thuds)
- (dog barking in distance)
(TV chimes)
(TV beeping)
- (camera clicking)
- (indistinct chatter over P.A.)
Could we get anything from the CCTV?
All the cameras stopped working at once.
A system failure, apparently.
Thats convenient.
Well, at least no video of us will end up
on social media.
Yes, and the guy in the elevator,
the injured one.
Did he have anything to say?
He has four broken ribs and a stab wound
in his leg.
According to him,
Abrams just attacked him.
- What about this guy?
- Dead as a doornail for 12 hours already.
The first thing Abrams said was
that someone is trying to frame him.
That means he came here looking
for something.
Proof.
We have to find out who this guy is.
That might tell us what Abrams
is looking for.
Williamson.
Hmm?
Go home.
What? Why?
You placed yourself and a senior officer
in danger.
There in the hallway earlier with Abrams.
You werent focused on the case,
only your own agenda.
Im taking you off the case,
effective immediately.
General, thats absolute bullshit.
I have the best chance of anyone to solve
this case.
Or fuck it up.
(indistinct chatter over P.A.)
(device chimes)
(device clicking)
- Sussex Industries.
- (device clicking)
(exhales)
Relax, Captain. I want to help you.
Alan: (in English) Theo Abrams.
Only survivor.
"Believes himself
to be responsible
for his parents' deaths."
Mm-hmm.
"Displays extraordinary
resilience to childhood trauma."
(water splattering)
(cricket chirping)
- (water gurgling)
- (dog barking in distance)
(in Afrikaans) - Come on, let me see.
- Leave it.
Leave it.
I never liked that mirror.
Its always been a pain in my butt.
- (sighs)
- (chuckles)
How would I ever survive without you?
Youre a survivor, T. Thats what you do.
Since long before you met me.
(car door shuts)
- What the fuck?
- Samuel Isaacs.
The corpse at the hotel.
I ran his fingerprints myself.
The guy is a freaking ghost.
This is literally all we have on him.
I really hope I drew the wrong conclusions
about you.
(in English) Sit.
(hinge squealing)
(door creaking)
Man on phone:
Where are we?
FRS picked him up on one
of the street cameras.
- Im on my way.
- Were too close to the end, Ernst.
Finish this thing now,
I dont care how you do it.
(in English) Colonel Marquez,
thank you for meeting me
at this hour.
You don't have to
thank me yet, Minister.
I don't know why I'm here.
Well, I'll get
straight to the point.
After your president's
untimely death,
China began lobbying hard
to ensure your vice-president
becomes the country's successor.
His loyalty to the East
is no secret.
With him in power,
it will ensure
their military stronghold
in the region
for decades to come.
But we have the opportunity
to ensure that doesn't happen.
You're the strongest
opposition leader in Angola,
so my question to you,
Colonel, is,
do you want to be
the next president?
Theo: African Union
Summit stalls...
(whispers indistinctly)
Sam in video:
My name is Samuel Isaacs,
and this testimony relates
to an ongoing investigation
into M-Tech,
an experimental program,
known as Indemnity,
and its creator,
South Africa's Minister
of Defense.
Marquez: You don't have
that kind of power.
What if I did?
What if, together,
we and others like us
- can take back this continent?
- How?
Back in 1996,
I was tasked with testing
the psychical effects
of advanced psychoplasma drugs
on volunteers,
mostly men and some women
from the military.
Guinea pigs
for experimental procedures
that would supposedly
advance treatment
of extreme post-traumatic
stress disorder, or PTSD.
Shock therapy, coercion,
cognitive manipulation
techniques were
routinely demonstrated
on South African citizens
to study the body's response
to trauma using
powerful serums.
But what I later discovered
was that the program
wasn't designed to treat PTSD,
but to manipulate it.
To use it to create
unwitting soldiers
who would obediently
take the fall for crimes
they didn't commit,
by forcibly rehabilitating
their memories
with powerful medication.
The program was tested
in various African countries
where M-Tech had set up
training facilities,
a front
for secret military outposts.
Outposts that were a cover
for the planning of,
and systematic elimination
of powerful political leaders
on the continent,
who all had one thing in common,
interests that weren't aligned
to the politics of David Gordon.
Rene: (in Afrikaans)
We traced Samuel Isaacs tax number.
His last official salary came
through 14 years ago.
He did freelance investigative work for us
for about two years, from 2004.
We do a thorough background check
on everyone.
Company policy.
- This guy was part of Special Forces.
- Thats why we hired him.
Our best investigators are guys
with military experience.
Makes them ten times better than the rest,
if you ask me.
Can you remember if he ever mentioned
a Theo Abrams?
He didnt say much. Never asked questions.
So we didnt either.
Until he disappeared in 2006.
Vanished off the face of the Earth,
it seems.
Sam in video: (in English)
Back when I began leaking intel
to the press,
M-Tech was investigated.
It didn't take long
for some staff to defect
or turn state's witness.
But I knew better.
I resigned quietly,
went off the grid.
And today, I'm the only witness
still alive,
but I needed help,
I needed proof
of this conspiracy.
Mikaela Morris
helped with that.
She was an expert
at information retrieval.
She found that M-Tech
had infiltrated
the highest levels
of African governments.
David Gordon has murdered
countless African leaders
and framed unwitting suspects
using this illegal,
experimental programme,
which itself is a violation
of the Geneva Convention.
The question we need
to ask ourselves is,
to what end?
(glass shattering)
- (explosion)
- (groans, grunts)
- (gunshot)
- (groans)
(grunts, groans)
(Theo grunts)
(grunts, groans)
(grunts, groans)
(groans)
(in Afrikaans)
You made me work for my pay today, hey?
But thats okay, thats okay,
I actually enjoyed it.
Now Im going to kill you.
(grunts)
(groans)
- (grunts)
- (groans)
- (chain rattling)
- (grunts, groans)
(groans)
(cellphone ringing)
(dial tone ringing)
Get the car, I need to get to M-Tech.
- (fire crackling)
- (glass shattering)
(pants)
- (explosion)
- (glass shattering)
(grunts)
(groans)
(groans)
- (train honking)
- (groans)
(whimpering)
- (screams, groans)
- (screams)
Theo: (in English) It's okay,
it's okay, it's okay.
- Woman: Kill me.
- Theo: No.
- Kill me.
- Theo: No.
Please. Please, kill me.
Theo, please.
(screams)
(screams, thuds)
(groans)
Rene: (in Afrikaans)
What exactly do I need to do?
Keep the phone, It will ring
when the time is right.
Did you hear? Moses Tweste passed away
in the middle of the night.
Yes, its awful. Just yesterday,
the doctors were telling me
hes recovering well.
I was hoping to see him today.
So yes.
Look here.
This is the hospital, close to the ward
where his bed was.
The cameras stopped working.
Sounds familiar, hey?
But this hospital has another generator
on a different site
for things like ICU,
so the CCTV kept working.
Now, only staff and family members
are allowed in here, no one else.
Rene: Fucking hell.
Is that the guy from the hotel elevator?
- Did he murder Tweste?
- Possibly.
(in English) Come again.
(bell dings)
(cars honking)
Yes. Not registered?
Okay, thanks.
(telephone ringing in distance)
(in Afrikaans) The guys cell number is fake.
His address, too. Its all bullshit.
(Alan sighs)
Hes the only one
we havent identified yet. Am I right?
I think Im going to vote for him,
this one, this Gordon guy.
I think hed make a good president,
even though hes a White guy.
(mouse clicks)
(pills rattling)
Tell me.
How soon after your husbands death
did you return to work?
Three miserable, unpaid weeks.
Because it was suicide,
life insurance meant nothing.
He took everything from you
and left you with nothing.
Youre trying to bribe a detective.
I should lock you up.
Youre welcome to,
if youre that determined to keep losing.
Wait.
(door shuts)
(cellphone vibrating)
(cellphone chimes)
Yes?
Alan:
I have a new lead. Come on.
I... I need to fetch my daughter
from home.
Or school rather
and drop her off at home.
Ill phone as soon as Im done.
Theo.
The internet is an amazing thing, Doc.
If you search hard enough,
you can find anything.
Like, for example...
who developed Torvidep?
The medication thats supposed
to correct PTSD patients
chemical imbalances?
Advanced psychoplasma drugs.
And you were a resident
with Avark Pharmaceuticals.
But that name didnt last long.
M-Tech bought out the company.
Then it became Rotterscope International.
And theyre the ones...
who made these pills.
Yes. And you helped kickstart
the Sancore Foundation.
And Rotterscope is your biggest investor.
But the foundation helped
offer psychological care
to members of the navy, the army,
police...
and firefighters.
And thats how you got access to everyone.
Which computer?
You gave me the pills.
You messed with my head.
You sent someone to my house
to kill my wife
and made me believe it was me.
But how?
How is it possible
that I cant remember anything?
But I figured it out, Doc.
Its the pills and your hypnosis.
Thats how you make us forget.
Turn us into unreliable witnesses.
Yes.
And thats the key that was just
out of Samuels reach.
There are 400 names on that list.
And let me guess,
they all got some of these pills.
Yes. And they all received
the same hypnosis therapy as me.
Ready to be framed, or killed,
or whatever David Gordon needs that day.
But thats... thats what Indemnity is,
isnt it?
Yes.
Sancores founding statement.
Beautifully worded by you-know-who,
David Gordon.
But theres only one thing
I cant figure out.
Angie started digging around two days ago.
So when did you program me?
Was it during all of our sessions?
So that you can use me the day
you need me?
Well, you have two options, Doc.
(gun cocks)
Either you tell me what you did to me
and why.
Or everything comes to an end for you,
right now.
Rene over phone:
Hi, it's Detective Williamson,
please leave a message.
This is a post-hypnotic
triggering mechanism.
(device chimes)
It synchronizes
with the electrical currents in your brain
to take over.
All I need to do is press this button
and youre activated.
What do you mean, activated?
You were programmed to kill your wife,
Theo.
What? Why?
Thats not why we originally selected you
for the program...
but she started digging
in the wrong places.
She forced us to move things along
more quickly.
- (grunts)
- (groans)
- Youre messing with my head.
- Thats how the program works.
People become weapons.
Theo, you are Indemnity.
The hypnosis by itself wasnt sufficient.
Thats why we created Torvidep.
It makes the patient more receptive
to instructions.
(gasps)
(gasps)
Listen closely.
The instructions speak
to the primal components of the brain.
And it works because it connects
to instincts that are already there.
No matter how you look at it,
its still your hands that strangled
your wife.
Youre here because youre looking
for redemption,
something to free you from that burden
of guilt.
But I cant give it to you.
You think Im mad.
To be able to program a person
in this way isnt madness,
its brilliant, its innovative,
the future of warfare.
I could use your pain, your trauma,
because you allowed it.
You made yourself the ideal candidate.
Youre looking for proof
that youre innocent,
but thats the one thing
youll never find.
Thats what makes my process perfect.
If Angela had published her story,
it would have destroyed this country.
Theres honor in what you did.
A higher purpose.
This program, believe me,
its our big chance to change the world.
Why are you telling me all this?
You have about 30 seconds to decide.
Either you can keep your trap shut
about everything you just heard
or soon you can visit your son
in the morgue.
- (grunts)
- (groans)
Ill kill you.
Then youre also killing Wesley.
That I can guarantee.
They might ask questions you dont want
to answer.
You think that Ill let you get away
with this?
- After everything youve done to me?
- Abrams...
leave her alone.
Abrams, stand back.
Dont shoot.
On your knees and put down the weapon.
Williamson, wait, wait, wait.
Mr. Abrams, you said theres a conspiracy,
false evidence against you.
Please, I want to hear your side
of the story.
Is there a reason you dont want
to talk to me?
Look, you can trust us.
Im guilty.
I did it.
Come on.
Excuse me, guys.
Thank you.
What happened here?
Why was he here with you?
My guess? He was looking for help.
Therapy.
After everything hes caused.
- (van door shuts)
- (indistinct chatter over P.A.)
Please drop my car off at the station,
thank you.
How did you get here so quickly?
I...
I happened to be around the corner
when the alert came through.
The Commissioner wants us back
at the station for a press conference.
She wants us to capitalize on the arrest.
As soon as possible.
You should do it.
You deserve it, youre a good detective.
Youre the future.
Im retiring.
- (police siren wailing)
- (indistinct chatter over P.A.)
(sighs)
(whimpers)
That stuff you said about your daughter
is true, isnt it?
Then youll understand, the only thing
that matters to me now is Wesley.
And he doesnt have anything to do
with this.
(keys rattling)
- Wheres his son? Wheres Wesley?
- Thats none of your business.
No, wait, you said hed be safe.
Hey! What do I tell my superiors
and the media?
Youre clever, youll think of something.
Listen, please, you can do what you want
with me,
but leave Wesley out of this.
Please, hes my child.
(gun cocks)
Stop whining, he wont know what
its like being an orphan for very long.
- (Theo grunts)
- (groans)
- (grunts)
- (groans)
(gun cocks)
(Theo grunts)
Get up and run.
(in English) Sorry, Wesley.
- (gunshot)
- (Theo pants)
- (gunshot)
- (screams)
(in Afrikaans)
Give me your gun. Give me your gun.
Was it you who gave Wesley to them?
Is that why you helped me just now?
(pants)
So Im only going to ask you this once.
What did you do with my son?
Tell me now, or I swear Ill blow
your brains out.
M-Tech.
Hes at M-Tech.
Get in.
Theo, please. I can help you get him out.
You cant go in there alone,
thats just crazy.
Rene: Theo!
Luckily for you, Im already crazy.
(groans)
- (grunts)
- (groans)
(door lock chimes)
(fire alarm blaring)
(door lock beeps)
(grunts)
(grunts, groans)
- Wake him up.
- Sir?
I said, wake him up.
Mr. Abrams.
It seems like the two of us were destined
to meet today.
Wheres my son?
You need to stop this lone wolf
in the eleventh-hour bullshit.
This thing certainly isnt going to end
the way you want it to.
But I know men like you.
You hide behind patriotism.
But the truth will always come to light.
You know absolutely nothing about men
like me.
You use trauma, innocent peoples pain,
as weapons.
This situation is a bit larger
than the loss you...
Whats the point, you wouldnt understand.
I know you have an agenda.
You kill people all across Africa.
And I dont care what the reasons are,
all I want is my child.
(dart shot)
David:
Take him to the laboratory.
Wheres Wesley?
Youll see him again soon, Mr. Abrams.
(pants)
What do you want?
In a word, freedom.
The Chinese and the Americans have
stolen Africas most valuable resources,
taken over our economies
and run our democracies
for their own benefit.
Not anymore.
Im going to take back whats ours.
So you want to start a war?
Kill millions of people.
Perhaps.
But Africa is finally united.
Thanks to my weapons.
If it takes a war to get
the colonial powers off our continent,
then that is what will happen.
Please, you dont care about the people
of Africa.
All you want is power.
So show us what your true motives are.
(grunts, breathes heavily)
You almost threw a spanner in the works,
Mr. Abrams.
But in the end you were quite useful.
We are very close to the finish line,
thanks to you shutting up your wife.
(grunts)
We are very grateful to you.
So Im going to do you a favor.
Your own hands will determine
what happens next.
Will you prepare, Doctor?
His son, Wesley.
No. No, no, no, no!
No!
Do it or must I take over?
Im going to kill you.
- Let me know when youre done.
- Im going to fucking kill you! No!
Please, please,
you dont need to do this, please.
Please!
- (Theo grunts)
- Shit.
- (Gillian groans)
- (grunts, shushes)
Think very carefully
about what your next move is going to be.
Okay? Where is he? Wheres Wesley?
I trusted you, Doc.
And you turned me into a murderer.
So whats happening to you now
is your own fault.
- (gasps)
- Wheres Wesley?
(in English)
The western corridor. (gasps)
Substation three.
(Gillian groans)
(whispers indistinctly)
(gas hissing)
- (knife slashes)
- (groans)
(heavy explosion)
- (explosion)
- (people scream)
- (fire alarm blaring)
- (all screaming)
(indistinct clamor)
- (fire crackling)
- Theo: Wesley!
- (door lock beeps)
- (grunts) Wesley!
(grunts)
Wesley!
(grunts) Wes!
(grunts)
- (fire crackling)
- Wesley!
Wesley!
(groans)
Wesley!
No!
- Wesley!
- (fire crackling)
(grunts)
No!
(screams in pain)
(car engine starts)
(fire crackling)
(coughs)
(grunts)
(pants)
(grunts) Wesley!
(in Afrikaans)
Stand back, Wesley.
(grunts)
Stand back, Wesley.
(grunts)
Wesley? (groans)
(groans)
(breathes heavily)
- (coughs)
- (breathes heavily)
Ive got you.
(Theo grunts)
(grunts)
(fire crackling)
- Daddy? Daddy! Daddy!
- (sirens wailing distantly)
Daddy? Daddy! Daddy! Dad!
- (monitor beeping)
- (handcuffs clanking)
(TV beeps)
David over TV: (in English)
The horrors that have
come to light about M-Tech's
gross abuse of power
left all of us traumatised.
But justice will prevail.
As we look at fixing
the missteps of government,
we must usher in
a time for healing,
in memory of those
countless lives lost,
by those who were
simply misguided.
Thank you.
That was a mere two hours
before Minister of Defense,
David Gordon, was implicated
on charges of terrorism,
racketeering, murder,
and conspiracy,
in connection with the breaking
M-Tech investigation
that sent shockwaves
around the world.
(cries)
- (door slams)
- (gasps, pants)
(handcuffs clattering)
(in Afrikaans)
How are you holding up?
Im doing everything to get you
out of here.
But its going to take a few more days.
Its a unique case, to say the least.
What does it matter?
It doesnt.
Youre a brave man, Theo.
Youre stronger than just about anyone
Ive ever worked with.
But youre punishing
yourself unnecessarily,
for something thats not your fault.
You have to learn to forgive yourself,
no one will do it for you.
Otherwise youll end up a bitter old man
with only regret for company.
You say it doesnt matter.
Tell him that.
(sighs)
(cries)
Daddy, when are you coming home?
(chuckles, cries)
One of these days, okay?
- I promise.
- Wesley: Good.
We need to talk business.
(chuckles)
(clears throat)
Hi.
My name is Theo Abrams.
- (siren wailing)
(indistinct clamor)
(people screaming)
(fire crackling)
(respirator hissing)
(indistinct chatter)
(indistinct clamor)
(yells in Afrikaans)
- My baby! My baby!
- (glass shattering)
Firefighter 1: Captain,
there's an open gas line.
It's not safe.
Firefighter 2: Theo!
Theo: We are not leaving
a baby to die. Let's go!
- (respirator hissing)
- (fire crackling)
(baby crying)
(gasps)
- (breathes heavily)
- (indistinct chatter over TV)
...who was killed
in a tragic car accident
last night
when the vehicle lost control,
- crashing into...
- (TV powers off)
(crickets chirping)
(exhales heavily)
(inhales, exhales)
(exhales deeply)
Theo?
(door opens)
Angela: Theo?
- Theo?
- (gasps, grunts)
(groans)
(in Afrikaans)
No, leave me alone.
- Theo: Angie?
- (grunts)
(breathes heavily)
(grunts)
(gun cocks)
(phone vibrating)
- Hello?
- Sam over phone: Mikaela...
- (panting)
- What?
Now, Mikaela, go!
Sam?
(gunshots)
(gunshots)
(grunts)
(grunts)
(grunts)
- (gunshots)
- (Sam groans)
(keys rattling)
- (glass shattering)
- (screams)
(leaves crunching)
(in Afrikaans) M-Techs systems
are supposedly impenetrable.
But you hacked them three times
in the last six months.
Sensitive stuff that you stole.
Highly classified intelligence.
You only get your hands
on documents like those
if you know exactly where to find them.
So...
(clears throat)
whos your source?
- (chair scraping)
- (exhales)
(mouse clicks)
(monitor chimes)
Do you know what happens
when a human body burns?
- Hmm?
- (whimpers)
Do you?
Your muscles melt first
and that exposes your nerve endings.
Its so unbearably painful that
your brain goes into shock
and your heart stops,
and within seconds
youre dead as a doornail.
But...
Yes, this stuff keeps that shock at bay.
(chuckles)
(in English) Shh!
Hey, hey, hey, hey!
- (muffled groan)
- (shushing)
(in Afrikaans)
And you feel everything.
And best of all, the best part is
that we can do it over and over again.
As long as it takes,
until you start talking.
Come now, come, come...
(in English) Please!
Please, don't do this. Please!
(screams) Please don't do this.
- (shushes)
- (sobs, screams)
(in Afrikaans) Mikaela, listen. Im going
to be honest with you, okay?
Theres no question
of you leaving here alive, okay?
The only question you need to answer
is how much pain...
youre willing to experience
before you die.
(whimpering)
(chuckles)
Okay. Hey!
Samuel Isaacs.
He worked for M-Tech in the '90s,
doing research
and development out of Joburg.
Hes the one that wants
to expose everything,
the one weve been looking for all along.
Man on phone:
Wheres he now?
Were on his trail.
Man on phone: Jesus, Ernst, I thought you had him.
What does he have?
Enough. Doesnt matter.
He wont have a chance to use it.
Theo: Wes...
eat your breakfast.
Otherwise youll be late for school.
I dont mind.
(dog barking in distance)
Just give me the money,
thats way easier, isnt it?
Thats not how it works, Wesley,
and you know it.
Come on, Mommy,
I know the Tooth Fairy is a hoax.
Says who?
Says everyone and if shes real,
where was she last night?
Maybe shell come tonight.
Im too old for that stuff.
I mean, a real Tooth Fairy would be fair,
and leave at least R20 for a tooth.
R5 is peanuts.
Hello? Are you saying
the Tooth Fairy is stingy?
No, Im saying you are.
- Wesley, go brush your teeth.
- Already done.
(sighs)
Please, drop it now, Angie.
Not all of us can afford that attitude.
- Be good, my baby.
- I always am.
I know, thats why youre my number one,
my champ.
Hmm?
Do you know who just popped in
while you were in the bathroom?
Do you? The Tooth Fairy.
- Dont spend it all at once, okay?
- I cant make any promises.
Lets go.
(door opens)
Theo...
good luck today.
(door closes)
(siren wailing)
(in English) Okay. Yeah?
(knocking on door)
Eddie, I'm gonna call you back
in a minute.
(sighs) Theo Abrams.
You look like shit.
- You got fat.
- (chuckles)
Bloody hell.
- I've missed you.
- I've missed you too, man.
Looks like you're managing
just fine without me.
Eh...
I, um... (clears throat)
I just saw two trucks
heading into town.
Yeah. Flare-up on the mountain,
so we're relief support.
Did you say howzit to the guys?
Hmm.
(sighs) How are things?
(scoffs)
I'm good. I'm fine.
I, uh, took the time off
as I was asked.
But now I'm ready to come back.
You know my hands are tied
until psych clears you.
Ugh, come on, Moses,
you know I don't need a shrink.
You still getting
those blackouts?
I'm fine.
What does Angie think?
You're not gonna
wanna hear this. (clears throat)
But I've been asked to find
a permanent replacement for you.
The District Chief's
been informed that you're...
you're resisting treatment.
Yes, because it's a fucking
waste of time, Moses.
It's not weak to ask for help.
How many times
have we seen this?
Guys who'd rather sit back
and watch their lives
fall apart
instead of getting the help
that they need.
We soldier on, even though
we know we shouldn't.
Now, ask yourself,
how does it always end up?
If you're as fine
as you say you are...
then get the doc
to give you your clearance.
Theo! We have
a civic responsibility
to ensure our ability
to help others.
How am I, how is anyone
supposed to help you
if you won't help yourself?
- It's good to see you too.
- (siren wailing in distance)
Chief.
- (plates clatter)
- (phone vibrating)
(phone beeps)
(in Afrikaans)
Hello, this is Angela Abrams.
- Hello?
- Can I speak to Theo Abrams?
Sorry, you just missed him.
He left his phone at home.
- Can I take a message?
- Sam: When will he be back?
Im not sure.
Anything I can help you with?
- Hello?
- Sam: Youre a journalist
for the Cape Atlantic.
Thats right. To whom am I speaking?
A friend. I have a lead for you.
- It involves your husband.
- What about him?
Sam: He needs our help, Angela.
Can you and I meet? Its urgent.
Okay, take down my email address,
then we can...
We dont have that kind of time.
You have to trust me.
Meet me at 11:00 a.m., Pier place,
on Adderley, and come alone, right?
- Your husbands life depends on it.
- Who the hell are you?
(phone beeps)
(phone vibrating)
(dog barking in distance)
Gillian:
Im glad you phoned me, Theo. Thank you.
I should be thanking you, Doc.
I know its short notice.
How are you?
How are things at home?
The last time I saw you, you were ashamed,
because you felt
you didnt deserve to live,
that you should have died in that fire.
I know what I said.
Thats why I lost my job, isnt it?
Do you still feel that way?
What do you think?
I think youre here...
and thats a good start, at least.
You know how this works, Theo.
The computer sends signals to your brain
that stimulate your subconscious.
Okay?
The sensors do all the work.
All you need to do is relax. Okay?
(high-pitched frequency)
- (fire crackling)
- (baby crying)
- (screams)
- (fire crackling)
- (gasping, panting)
- Gillian: Theo. Breathe. Youre safe, Im here.
Youre safe.
You have to relive this trauma.
(high-frequency noise ringing)
That way, over time, your brain
can minimize the emotional pain.
Then we can manage it.
But it wont work if you fight against it.
Trust my process, Theo.
(cars honking)
Lets go this way.
Angela: Sir,
I hate cloak-and-dagger stuff like this.
And once someone threatens my family...
Listen, Angela. You can trust me.
Your husband needs my help,
and I need yours, so...
So, take a seat.
Please?
Who are you?
My name is Sam.
Ill get straight to the point.
I have proof
of a huge government conspiracy.
Im talking about
the higher ups higher ups.
- Youre familiar with M-Tech?
- An army contractor?
Not a contractor, the contractor.
Murder, treason, you name it.
And theyll do anything to stop me,
because I have proof.
And Im at the end of my rope.
But we shouldnt actually be talking here.
Its not safe here.
- Whats your ETA?
- Were almost there.
Do not lose them.
Please, start from the beginning.
You said my husbands life is in danger.
Yes. A long time ago, I worked for M-Tech.
Research and development.
The things I saw during those two years.
Some people will do anything in the name
of national security.
Im talking about assassinations,
biological weapons,
extreme defense initiatives.
The type of stuff that would give
you nightmares.
Fourteen years. Thats how long
Ive been trying to expose them,
but theyre always one step ahead of me.
Last night.
They killed my partner last night.
What?
The woman who was helping me
find the classified documents.
The last thing she gave me, right?
Is a list with a bunch
of detailed profiles
of people all across Africa.
Theyre seemingly unconnected,
except for this,
theyre either dead, or in jail.
Your husbands name is on
that list, Angela,
and I promise you, its not a mistake.
Our times up. Check out that black BM,
theyre looking for me.
Listen, I havent been able to work out
the connection with your husband,
but only 11 of the people on that list
are in the Cape and hes one of them.
Ive tried contacting the rest.
Two are behind bars,
three are already dead,
and the others have just disappeared.
Your husband is a target.
Why and for what reason, I dont know.
All I ask of you now, Angela,
is to trust me.
(engine revs)
- (groans)
- (glass shattering)
(pants)
(pills rattling)
Daddy?
Wesley, shouldnt you be in bed?
Wheres mommy?
(pants)
Okay, mommy will be here soon, okay?
Okay?
Come on, go back to bed.
(glass clatters)
(tone beeps)
Angela over phone: Hi,
you've reached Angela Abrams,
please leave a message
and I'll get back to you.
- (exhales)
- (phone beeps)
Angie, its me again. Where are you?
Let me know where you are, please.
Its getting late.
- (crickets chirping)
- (car engine revving)
(car door opens, shuts)
(gasps)
- You scared me!
- What are you busy with, Angie?
- Hi, Theo.
- Hi. Where were you?
- I had something important to do.
- Angie, Ive been phoning you all day,
but apparently my own wife
doesnt answer my calls.
Angie?
Angie?
Angie? What are you doing?
- Wheres Wesley?
- Wesleys sleeping, has been for ages.
Angie, where were you?
And what are you putting in that box?
Angie!
Angela: Come.
I got a call this morning.
He was actually looking for you.
To let you know your life is in danger.
What?
He asked to meet with me,
so I went to see him.
Wait, wait, who? Whats his name?
Sam. Samuel Isaacs. He worked
for M-Tech a long time ago.
Samuel... What is M-Tech?
The big defense contractor.
Sam showed me a file, Theo.
The file that M-Tech has on you
is full of personal info.
Okay, like what?
Your whole life, our life, its all there.
Inside the metadata of an account
thats linked to M-Tech.
I dont understand what youre telling me.
Im still trying
to process everything myself.
That metadata has the same kind
of info on 463 people.
People with no connection to one another,
completely random, except...
Except what?
About half the people are either dead...
or in jail.
(scoffs)
Okay. For what?
Murder.
Attempted murder.
Its not always the same.
Sam thinks its linked to a program
at M-Tech.
Something to do with assassinations.
If its true, its beyond horrifying.
And a massive story,
so Im preparing to publish all of it,
the government will have to investigate.
- To me, the whole sounds...
- Totally crazy,
- yes.
- Yes.
I know, Theo, but I saw the evidence
Sam has.
He used to work for M-Tech
and he has solid inside info.
Names, accounts, testimonies.
Its all there.
It points to a conspiracy
at the highest levels.
And if we dont do something now...
What does this whole thing have to do
with me? I mean, I... (stutters)
I dont know yet.
Okay, Angie, what if all of this is just
a bunch of nonsense?
What if this is just some crazy guy...
Of course,
that was my first thought, Theo.
But what about the alternative?
- Okay, whats the alternative?
- What if all of its true,
and they come looking for you?
(exhales)
Theo, just go take a shower,
then we can talk, once youre sober.
Angie, Angie, Angie.
(stutters)
Dont be judgmental, please.
All right? Youre not the one
that lost their job today, I am.
I lost my job, not you. Right?
After I was forced to see
the psychiatrist...
- Forced?
- I was forced, Angie.
Theo, your PTSD
is only getting worse, I can tell.
- Oh, my PTSD, is that right?
- Every night its more nightmares
- and more blackouts.
- Yes, yes...
The guys want you to open up
about what happened...
- Oh, the guys...
- Talk, so that you can heal
and be my husband again!
I am your husband,
and Im standing right in front of you.
- No, no, Theo, youre not.
- Where am I then?
Im all alone
and youre drinking the day away.
- Like thats an original solution.
- Oh, I drink the day away?
I do nothing but drink?
- Yes, Theo!
- Fuck you! Yes, fuck you!
(drawer thuds)
Mommy?
Angela: Mm-hmm?
Are you and daddy getting divorced?
Of course not, my dear.
Adults argue sometimes,
but we still love each other.
And you.
Why is daddy always so angry?
Your dad is going through
a very tough time, Wes.
But hes doing his best.
Close your eyes now.
(smooches)
I love you.
Angie, Im sorry.
I didnt mean it.
You have to believe me, please.
Trust me.
Do you even trust yourself, Theo?
(cries)
(sobs)
(smooches)
(baby crying distantly)
Theo: (in English) We are not
leaving a baby to die.
- (flames rage)
- (baby crying)
(machine beeping)
- (screams, groans)
- (screams)
(pants)
(continues panting)
(in Afrikaans)
Youre up early, Angie.
Angie?
(breathing heavily)
Angie?
(pants, breathes heavily)
Angie!
(pants)
(in English) Come on, Angie,
come on, come on! No! No!
No!
(cries, screams) No!
(cries loudly)
(screams)
Daddy?
(whispers) Hey. Hey.
- (pants)
- (knock on door)
Officer 1:
Police! Open the door!
(knock on door)
Officer 1:
Open this door immediately!
Police!
Open up!
Wheres your wife?
(grunts)
Officer 2:
Stay where you are.
Step away from that child.
Im going to tell you one more time,
get away from that child! Now!
He killed his wife.
Give me the child. Let go of the child!
Give the child to me.
- Leave the child alone!
- Let go of me!
(grunts, gasps)
You are arrested on murder charges.
You have the right to remain silent.
Anything you say
can be used against you...
(sighs)
(in English) Mr. Abrams?
I am Detective Williamson.
Can you tell me what happened?
Mr. Abrams.
(exhales)
(in Afrikaans)
I dont know, I... I cant...
- Wheres my son?
- Hes speaking to another detective.
Is there anyone we can contact?
Wesley,
everything will be all right, okay?
Dont worry.
Everything will be all right, Wesley.
Wheres he going?
- Where are you taking him?
- Rene: Mr. Abrams...
I didnt do it. I didnt do anything.
Id never hurt my Angie,
you have to believe me.
Id never hurt Angie, please.
You have to believe me!
Why would I hurt Angie? I love her.
I love Angie, please. Please.
Please.
(car tires squealing)
(car doors open, shut)
(car doors shut)
Man: Psst.
(grunts)
No, hey, no!
No, hey, no!
- (grunts)
- Help!
- (groans)
- Help!
(groans, grunts)
- Jack!
- (tires screeching)
(groans)
(groans, pants)
(groans)
Stand back! Stand back! Stop moving!
Hands in the air!
Hands behind your head!
Stay where you are!
(yelling indistinctly)
(grunts)
(in English) I want an APB
across all channels.
I want units
patrolling every hospital,
every clinic in the area,
because if he's injured,
he's going to need
medical attention.
Lock a perimeter
around the city.
How the hell did that happen?
(breathes heavily)
(indistinct chatter)
(groans)
(groans, pants)
(groans)
Rene: (in English)
Theodore Abrams.
Deputy Station Commander
at Salt River fire station.
Now, we received
a tip-off this morning
about some suspected
domestic violence at his home.
When our units arrived,
we found his wife
has been murdered.
Theo was arrested
as a prime suspect,
but he has
since escaped custody,
killing four of our men.
And one more person,
who was in police custody.
Now, the man is considered
to be armed and dangerous.
Not only is he
the deputy station commander,
but he's trained
in emergency operations,
search and rescue.
He's done three years
with the SANDF fire academy
and he volunteers,
self-defense training
in some of our own units.
The man is an impressive target.
On any other day,
we'd be celebrating him.
(in Afrikaans) How are we going to approach
this thing? No, sit, sit, sit, sit.
General Shard, I didnt think you would...
Relax, Williamson, relax.
Mike Richards and Julian Tsepe
were two of my captains.
Im doing this for them.
I understand the victim
was a journalist, yes?
Yes, the online reporter
for the Cape Atlantic.
That means the media will want
to ride this thing, long and hard.
We have to keep them at a distance.
(police siren wailing)
Hello, Captain.
(in English) I heard
you popped by yesterday.
- Didn't even come and say hi?
- Sorry, man, I, uh...
You guys looking after
Archie for me?
It's us that need looking after,
you must see
the man's latest squeeze, Cap.
A granny from Crawford.
(chuckles)
I told you,
she didn't even look 50.
And it's Rondebosch East.
Anyway, you back, or what, Cap?
(in Afrikaans) No, I...
Im going to have a quick chat
with the Chief, okay?
See you guys later, okay?
(in English) You know, your mom
never really loved you, huh?
Bro, what the hell?
Talking about my squeeze
looks 50,
- you mad?
- Hey, hey!
Theo, what the hell happened?
Car accident.
Tobie, please give me a minute.
Yeah.
(in Afrikaans) One of his neighbors phoned
this morning, anonymously.
Apparently he heard
the woman screaming, around 6:45.
Two of our units were sent out
to the house.
- Wheres the coroners report?
- Were still waiting.
But she was clearly strangled,
its asphyxiation.
Is that your expert opinion?
- (scoffs) General, its a slam-dunk case.
- Its a manhunt.
Every little mistake we make now
leads to another murder.
From now on, all leads are to be reported
to me directly.
(in English) You have got
to tell me what's going on.
I can't help you
if you don't tell me
what's going on.
Trust me...
It's better if you don't know.
(man over P.A.)
...the Pretorius street area
around ten o'clock
this morning.
Theo Abrams is considered
armed and dangerous.
- What did he say?
- (man over P.A.) Wanted
in connection
with multiple homicides,
including four SAPS officers.
Anyone with information
on the suspect
can report to Central
or call the SAPS
emergency crime hotline.
(in Afrikaans) Whats wrong?
(telephone ringing)
(in English) Wait.
What the hell are you doing
with a gun, Theo?
- (hangs up phone)
- I...
(telephone ringing)
Moses, stop. Moses.
Please, stop.
- What is going on?
- (phone continues ringing)
Someone tried to kill me, Moses.
Call that crime hotline.
Moses: What do you mean,
someone tried to kill you?
Theo, talk to me, please.
Hey!
(speaking Afrikaans
indistinctly)
(grunts)
No one needs to know about this.
- We can call Angie...
- Angie's dead, Moses!
She's dead!
- (indistinct chatter)
- (gunshots)
(mumbles indistinctly)
I had no choice!
Moses: Let me help you.
But first you have to
let me have the gun.
- No.
- Please, give me the gun.
I'm... I'm sorry.
- (cries)
- (alarm beeping)
(gunshots)
(groans)
Hold it there,
hold it there, hold it there.
(phone beeping)
(alarm continues beeping)
(indistinct chatter over P.A.)
Shit. Fuck.
(groaning)
(grunting)
(groans)
(groans)
- (grunts)
- (groans)
- (grunts)
- (groans)
(grunts)
- (police siren wailing)
- (pants)
Hey!
Hey, Moses. Hey, hey.
I'm here, I'm here, I'm here.
It's okay. It's okay, it's okay.
Hey, hey. Hang in there, okay?
You hang in there.
Hey, help is here,
help is here, okay?
(alarm continues beeping)
Whoever did this,
I'm gonna find them. Okay?
I'll see you soon.
(cars honking)
(breathes heavily)
(cars honking)
(car chimes)
- (indistinct chatter)
- (car engine starts)
(exhales)
Man on phone: (in Afrikaans)
Are you done?
Hey, you. Who are you?
Hey, speak.
- (phone chimes)
- 141 Ferndale Road.
141 Ferndale Road.
The station commander
is in a critical condition,
but hes alive.
This is a massacre, nothing less.
We need to catch this guy today,
you hear me?
Theo Abrams saved 198 people
in four years.
And another 25 since he became captain.
- His colleagues see him as a hero.
- So, what are you trying to say?
Hes been on mandatory leave
for five months,
after he lost two of his friends
in a fire.
And, according to his file,
there have been two incidents at his home,
apparently domestic disturbance.
And his neighbors,
they say hes been aggressive lately.
They dont know him
to usually be that way.
- All since that specific fire.
- What are you getting at?
Its obvious, General.
PTSD.
Thats why he was on mandatory leave.
Perhaps even why he murdered his wife.
General, the guys
from the fire department.
They see the same horrors we do.
Probably worse.
- How is that relevant?
- It is relevant,
because they have to power through.
Because the public relies on them,
just like the police.
General, here it is, black on white.
We can use it to expose
this cycle of trauma.
Perhaps put systems in place to ensure...
No one gives a wit about PTSD.
You should know that.
The public expects the police
to protect them.
They dont want to know
that we cant even protect ourselves.
Theo Abrams is not a victim.
Hes a murderer and thats that.
I found out who his psychiatrist is.
We have to go see her.
Maybe she can help us figure out
whats going on in his head.
All right, all right,
make the appointment.
But send out a press release.
I want Theo Abrams face
on every TV news channel,
every radio station, on the front page.
If he tweets something,
I want to know about it.
This bastard isnt going to hide from us.
I thought you wanted to keep the media
at a distance, General.
(scoffs) Its too late for that.
(telephone ringing)
(in English)
Excuse me, sir, can I help you?
Yeah, no, I'm fine,
I'm actually just visiting
a friend, that's all.
All guests are required
to sign in
for security purposes.
This way, please.
Who are you visiting today, sir?
Um... I'm, uh, I...
- Uh...
- Sir?
(exhales) Ma'am,
put down the phone.
Uh, Sir, I have to call
the staff you're visiting
so that he or she can come
fetch you,
we don't allow
visitors in unattended.
- Security...
- Okay. (sniffles)
Put down the phone, now.
So, in every way
that this ends badly for me,
it ends badly for you,
do you understand? Good.
Now...
The security control room.
Take me there.
Now.
(in Afrikaans)
Fourteen hours ago, okay.
Black BMW.
Damn it.
(sighs)
Okay.
(in English)
Where's that?
- Service entrance.
- (speaking Afrikaans)
(breathing heavily)
There are hallway cameras. Okay.
(in Afrikaans)
You clever bastard.
(in English)
This feed's on a loop.
These timecodes don't add up.
Okay. Okay.
I need a list of every person
living on the 16th floor
for the last week. Okay?
Can you get me that list?
Yes? Or this ends badly for him.
No, no, please, okay,
it's fine, I'll go. But, um...
I need to get it
from the front desk.
You have two minutes, okay?
Two minutes.
And bring a master key with you,
you understand?
- Okay? Go, go, go.
- Okay.
Alan: (in Afrikaans) I have great appreciation
and understanding for you, Doctor...
as a volunteer who does so much good work
with people in the public service.
Your work is highly regarded,
- but...
- But some people
dont believe in the process.
Do you know how many times
Ive seen it happen?
Ive lost friends, good friends.
And the problem
wasnt a lack of support, or systems,
or trauma counselling.
The problem was pride.
Who wants to be seen as a weakling?
And here we have Theo Abrams now.
How many more people need
to die for his pride?
Hes had opportunities
for counselling, yes?
And he refused.
- Correct?
- Trauma isnt rational, General.
And youre confusing pride
with shame or fear.
I understand theres much at stake, but...
But the bodies are piling up.
No one wants another death.
Just help us find Theo.
You want me to discuss a patient. It's...
its not only unethical, its illegal.
And if your patient kills 15 people
in cold blood?
Confidentiality is nonnegotiable.
Captain, you were in this chair yourself,
only recently.
How would you feel if I told a stranger
your deepest, most painful secrets?
With all due respect, Doctor,
Rene didnt kill 15 people today.
(in English) Give me the key.
Give me the key. (pants)
- You...
- (gasps)
(shushes)
It's okay, don't worry.
Hey, it's okay, don't worry.
- No... no, please.
- Get in, get in. Get in.
I'm so sorry, I'm so sorry.
It's okay, it's okay.
- Okay. Shit.
- (gun clanks)
(breathes heavily)
- (indistinct chatter)
- (crockery clanking)
(elevator dinging)
(elevator bell ringing)
(elevator dinging)
- (knocks on door)
- (indistinct chatter over TV)
- Yes?
- Uh, sorry.
(door shuts)
(knocks on door)
(knocks on door)
(door lock chimes)
(indistinct chatter over TV)
(breathes heavily)
(continues breathing heavily)
(exhales heavily)
- Theo: (in Afrikaans) Whats his name?
- Samuel Isaacs.
Angela:
He worked for M-Tech a long time ago.
I got a call this morning.
Saying your life is in danger.
News anchor: Authorities are still searching
for Theo Abrams,
a fire fighter from Cape Town.
Abrams leaves behind a trail of carnage
that started with the gruesome murder
of his wife,
the respected journalist, Angela Abrams.
Four police officers
and nine firefighters...
(breathing heavily)
Angela: Sam thinks its linked to a program
at M-Tech.
Something to do with assassinations.
(breathes heavily)
Wheres the laptop? Wheres the laptop?
(pants)
(elevator dings)
- (groans, grunts)
- (groans)
(grunts)
(groans)
(groans)
Who the fuck are you? Who?
- (knife slashing)
- (groans, grunts)
- (groans, screams)
- (grunts)
Who the fuck are you?
Was it you who killed my wife
and tried to frame me?
Do you work for M-Tech?
- (groans)
- (grunts)
Thought so, stupid bitch.
Im going to find out whos responsible
for this.
Then youre all going to pay.
Take the stairs.
(speaking Afrikaans
indistinctly)
Out the way, get out of the way.
It wasnt me.
The whole thing is a setup,
someones trying to frame me.
It doesnt seem that way to me.
But lets assume youre telling the truth.
Put down that weapon,
then you explain it to me.
Mr. Abrams, please.
Too many people have already died today.
It can end now, if you help me.
Your choice.
Rene: Theo.
We met at your house.
I just want to tell you something.
My husband shot at my daughter and I.
He wanted to kill us.
But he only managed that with one person,
himself.
And I know. I know hes in a better place.
And that he regrets what he did.
He was a good man.
He just couldnt protect himself
from himself.
But you, Theo, you can protect Wesley.
All he wants is his dad.
And if you try to flee again,
it can only end one way.
What becomes of your son then?
Theo, please.
Dont make an orphan of him.
You know all too well how that feels.
Alan: Open the door!
You cant get away, open up.
Theo, open up!
(pants)
(grunts)
(grunts)
(grunts)
Bastard.
(grunts)
(grunts, groans)
Fuck.
- (thuds)
- (dog barking in distance)
(TV chimes)
(TV beeping)
- (camera clicking)
- (indistinct chatter over P.A.)
Could we get anything from the CCTV?
All the cameras stopped working at once.
A system failure, apparently.
Thats convenient.
Well, at least no video of us will end up
on social media.
Yes, and the guy in the elevator,
the injured one.
Did he have anything to say?
He has four broken ribs and a stab wound
in his leg.
According to him,
Abrams just attacked him.
- What about this guy?
- Dead as a doornail for 12 hours already.
The first thing Abrams said was
that someone is trying to frame him.
That means he came here looking
for something.
Proof.
We have to find out who this guy is.
That might tell us what Abrams
is looking for.
Williamson.
Hmm?
Go home.
What? Why?
You placed yourself and a senior officer
in danger.
There in the hallway earlier with Abrams.
You werent focused on the case,
only your own agenda.
Im taking you off the case,
effective immediately.
General, thats absolute bullshit.
I have the best chance of anyone to solve
this case.
Or fuck it up.
(indistinct chatter over P.A.)
(device chimes)
(device clicking)
- Sussex Industries.
- (device clicking)
(exhales)
Relax, Captain. I want to help you.
Alan: (in English) Theo Abrams.
Only survivor.
"Believes himself
to be responsible
for his parents' deaths."
Mm-hmm.
"Displays extraordinary
resilience to childhood trauma."
(water splattering)
(cricket chirping)
- (water gurgling)
- (dog barking in distance)
(in Afrikaans) - Come on, let me see.
- Leave it.
Leave it.
I never liked that mirror.
Its always been a pain in my butt.
- (sighs)
- (chuckles)
How would I ever survive without you?
Youre a survivor, T. Thats what you do.
Since long before you met me.
(car door shuts)
- What the fuck?
- Samuel Isaacs.
The corpse at the hotel.
I ran his fingerprints myself.
The guy is a freaking ghost.
This is literally all we have on him.
I really hope I drew the wrong conclusions
about you.
(in English) Sit.
(hinge squealing)
(door creaking)
Man on phone:
Where are we?
FRS picked him up on one
of the street cameras.
- Im on my way.
- Were too close to the end, Ernst.
Finish this thing now,
I dont care how you do it.
(in English) Colonel Marquez,
thank you for meeting me
at this hour.
You don't have to
thank me yet, Minister.
I don't know why I'm here.
Well, I'll get
straight to the point.
After your president's
untimely death,
China began lobbying hard
to ensure your vice-president
becomes the country's successor.
His loyalty to the East
is no secret.
With him in power,
it will ensure
their military stronghold
in the region
for decades to come.
But we have the opportunity
to ensure that doesn't happen.
You're the strongest
opposition leader in Angola,
so my question to you,
Colonel, is,
do you want to be
the next president?
Theo: African Union
Summit stalls...
(whispers indistinctly)
Sam in video:
My name is Samuel Isaacs,
and this testimony relates
to an ongoing investigation
into M-Tech,
an experimental program,
known as Indemnity,
and its creator,
South Africa's Minister
of Defense.
Marquez: You don't have
that kind of power.
What if I did?
What if, together,
we and others like us
- can take back this continent?
- How?
Back in 1996,
I was tasked with testing
the psychical effects
of advanced psychoplasma drugs
on volunteers,
mostly men and some women
from the military.
Guinea pigs
for experimental procedures
that would supposedly
advance treatment
of extreme post-traumatic
stress disorder, or PTSD.
Shock therapy, coercion,
cognitive manipulation
techniques were
routinely demonstrated
on South African citizens
to study the body's response
to trauma using
powerful serums.
But what I later discovered
was that the program
wasn't designed to treat PTSD,
but to manipulate it.
To use it to create
unwitting soldiers
who would obediently
take the fall for crimes
they didn't commit,
by forcibly rehabilitating
their memories
with powerful medication.
The program was tested
in various African countries
where M-Tech had set up
training facilities,
a front
for secret military outposts.
Outposts that were a cover
for the planning of,
and systematic elimination
of powerful political leaders
on the continent,
who all had one thing in common,
interests that weren't aligned
to the politics of David Gordon.
Rene: (in Afrikaans)
We traced Samuel Isaacs tax number.
His last official salary came
through 14 years ago.
He did freelance investigative work for us
for about two years, from 2004.
We do a thorough background check
on everyone.
Company policy.
- This guy was part of Special Forces.
- Thats why we hired him.
Our best investigators are guys
with military experience.
Makes them ten times better than the rest,
if you ask me.
Can you remember if he ever mentioned
a Theo Abrams?
He didnt say much. Never asked questions.
So we didnt either.
Until he disappeared in 2006.
Vanished off the face of the Earth,
it seems.
Sam in video: (in English)
Back when I began leaking intel
to the press,
M-Tech was investigated.
It didn't take long
for some staff to defect
or turn state's witness.
But I knew better.
I resigned quietly,
went off the grid.
And today, I'm the only witness
still alive,
but I needed help,
I needed proof
of this conspiracy.
Mikaela Morris
helped with that.
She was an expert
at information retrieval.
She found that M-Tech
had infiltrated
the highest levels
of African governments.
David Gordon has murdered
countless African leaders
and framed unwitting suspects
using this illegal,
experimental programme,
which itself is a violation
of the Geneva Convention.
The question we need
to ask ourselves is,
to what end?
(glass shattering)
- (explosion)
- (groans, grunts)
- (gunshot)
- (groans)
(grunts, groans)
(Theo grunts)
(grunts, groans)
(grunts, groans)
(groans)
(in Afrikaans)
You made me work for my pay today, hey?
But thats okay, thats okay,
I actually enjoyed it.
Now Im going to kill you.
(grunts)
(groans)
- (grunts)
- (groans)
- (chain rattling)
- (grunts, groans)
(groans)
(cellphone ringing)
(dial tone ringing)
Get the car, I need to get to M-Tech.
- (fire crackling)
- (glass shattering)
(pants)
- (explosion)
- (glass shattering)
(grunts)
(groans)
(groans)
- (train honking)
- (groans)
(whimpering)
- (screams, groans)
- (screams)
Theo: (in English) It's okay,
it's okay, it's okay.
- Woman: Kill me.
- Theo: No.
- Kill me.
- Theo: No.
Please. Please, kill me.
Theo, please.
(screams)
(screams, thuds)
(groans)
Rene: (in Afrikaans)
What exactly do I need to do?
Keep the phone, It will ring
when the time is right.
Did you hear? Moses Tweste passed away
in the middle of the night.
Yes, its awful. Just yesterday,
the doctors were telling me
hes recovering well.
I was hoping to see him today.
So yes.
Look here.
This is the hospital, close to the ward
where his bed was.
The cameras stopped working.
Sounds familiar, hey?
But this hospital has another generator
on a different site
for things like ICU,
so the CCTV kept working.
Now, only staff and family members
are allowed in here, no one else.
Rene: Fucking hell.
Is that the guy from the hotel elevator?
- Did he murder Tweste?
- Possibly.
(in English) Come again.
(bell dings)
(cars honking)
Yes. Not registered?
Okay, thanks.
(telephone ringing in distance)
(in Afrikaans) The guys cell number is fake.
His address, too. Its all bullshit.
(Alan sighs)
Hes the only one
we havent identified yet. Am I right?
I think Im going to vote for him,
this one, this Gordon guy.
I think hed make a good president,
even though hes a White guy.
(mouse clicks)
(pills rattling)
Tell me.
How soon after your husbands death
did you return to work?
Three miserable, unpaid weeks.
Because it was suicide,
life insurance meant nothing.
He took everything from you
and left you with nothing.
Youre trying to bribe a detective.
I should lock you up.
Youre welcome to,
if youre that determined to keep losing.
Wait.
(door shuts)
(cellphone vibrating)
(cellphone chimes)
Yes?
Alan:
I have a new lead. Come on.
I... I need to fetch my daughter
from home.
Or school rather
and drop her off at home.
Ill phone as soon as Im done.
Theo.
The internet is an amazing thing, Doc.
If you search hard enough,
you can find anything.
Like, for example...
who developed Torvidep?
The medication thats supposed
to correct PTSD patients
chemical imbalances?
Advanced psychoplasma drugs.
And you were a resident
with Avark Pharmaceuticals.
But that name didnt last long.
M-Tech bought out the company.
Then it became Rotterscope International.
And theyre the ones...
who made these pills.
Yes. And you helped kickstart
the Sancore Foundation.
And Rotterscope is your biggest investor.
But the foundation helped
offer psychological care
to members of the navy, the army,
police...
and firefighters.
And thats how you got access to everyone.
Which computer?
You gave me the pills.
You messed with my head.
You sent someone to my house
to kill my wife
and made me believe it was me.
But how?
How is it possible
that I cant remember anything?
But I figured it out, Doc.
Its the pills and your hypnosis.
Thats how you make us forget.
Turn us into unreliable witnesses.
Yes.
And thats the key that was just
out of Samuels reach.
There are 400 names on that list.
And let me guess,
they all got some of these pills.
Yes. And they all received
the same hypnosis therapy as me.
Ready to be framed, or killed,
or whatever David Gordon needs that day.
But thats... thats what Indemnity is,
isnt it?
Yes.
Sancores founding statement.
Beautifully worded by you-know-who,
David Gordon.
But theres only one thing
I cant figure out.
Angie started digging around two days ago.
So when did you program me?
Was it during all of our sessions?
So that you can use me the day
you need me?
Well, you have two options, Doc.
(gun cocks)
Either you tell me what you did to me
and why.
Or everything comes to an end for you,
right now.
Rene over phone:
Hi, it's Detective Williamson,
please leave a message.
This is a post-hypnotic
triggering mechanism.
(device chimes)
It synchronizes
with the electrical currents in your brain
to take over.
All I need to do is press this button
and youre activated.
What do you mean, activated?
You were programmed to kill your wife,
Theo.
What? Why?
Thats not why we originally selected you
for the program...
but she started digging
in the wrong places.
She forced us to move things along
more quickly.
- (grunts)
- (groans)
- Youre messing with my head.
- Thats how the program works.
People become weapons.
Theo, you are Indemnity.
The hypnosis by itself wasnt sufficient.
Thats why we created Torvidep.
It makes the patient more receptive
to instructions.
(gasps)
(gasps)
Listen closely.
The instructions speak
to the primal components of the brain.
And it works because it connects
to instincts that are already there.
No matter how you look at it,
its still your hands that strangled
your wife.
Youre here because youre looking
for redemption,
something to free you from that burden
of guilt.
But I cant give it to you.
You think Im mad.
To be able to program a person
in this way isnt madness,
its brilliant, its innovative,
the future of warfare.
I could use your pain, your trauma,
because you allowed it.
You made yourself the ideal candidate.
Youre looking for proof
that youre innocent,
but thats the one thing
youll never find.
Thats what makes my process perfect.
If Angela had published her story,
it would have destroyed this country.
Theres honor in what you did.
A higher purpose.
This program, believe me,
its our big chance to change the world.
Why are you telling me all this?
You have about 30 seconds to decide.
Either you can keep your trap shut
about everything you just heard
or soon you can visit your son
in the morgue.
- (grunts)
- (groans)
Ill kill you.
Then youre also killing Wesley.
That I can guarantee.
They might ask questions you dont want
to answer.
You think that Ill let you get away
with this?
- After everything youve done to me?
- Abrams...
leave her alone.
Abrams, stand back.
Dont shoot.
On your knees and put down the weapon.
Williamson, wait, wait, wait.
Mr. Abrams, you said theres a conspiracy,
false evidence against you.
Please, I want to hear your side
of the story.
Is there a reason you dont want
to talk to me?
Look, you can trust us.
Im guilty.
I did it.
Come on.
Excuse me, guys.
Thank you.
What happened here?
Why was he here with you?
My guess? He was looking for help.
Therapy.
After everything hes caused.
- (van door shuts)
- (indistinct chatter over P.A.)
Please drop my car off at the station,
thank you.
How did you get here so quickly?
I...
I happened to be around the corner
when the alert came through.
The Commissioner wants us back
at the station for a press conference.
She wants us to capitalize on the arrest.
As soon as possible.
You should do it.
You deserve it, youre a good detective.
Youre the future.
Im retiring.
- (police siren wailing)
- (indistinct chatter over P.A.)
(sighs)
(whimpers)
That stuff you said about your daughter
is true, isnt it?
Then youll understand, the only thing
that matters to me now is Wesley.
And he doesnt have anything to do
with this.
(keys rattling)
- Wheres his son? Wheres Wesley?
- Thats none of your business.
No, wait, you said hed be safe.
Hey! What do I tell my superiors
and the media?
Youre clever, youll think of something.
Listen, please, you can do what you want
with me,
but leave Wesley out of this.
Please, hes my child.
(gun cocks)
Stop whining, he wont know what
its like being an orphan for very long.
- (Theo grunts)
- (groans)
- (grunts)
- (groans)
(gun cocks)
(Theo grunts)
Get up and run.
(in English) Sorry, Wesley.
- (gunshot)
- (Theo pants)
- (gunshot)
- (screams)
(in Afrikaans)
Give me your gun. Give me your gun.
Was it you who gave Wesley to them?
Is that why you helped me just now?
(pants)
So Im only going to ask you this once.
What did you do with my son?
Tell me now, or I swear Ill blow
your brains out.
M-Tech.
Hes at M-Tech.
Get in.
Theo, please. I can help you get him out.
You cant go in there alone,
thats just crazy.
Rene: Theo!
Luckily for you, Im already crazy.
(groans)
- (grunts)
- (groans)
(door lock chimes)
(fire alarm blaring)
(door lock beeps)
(grunts)
(grunts, groans)
- Wake him up.
- Sir?
I said, wake him up.
Mr. Abrams.
It seems like the two of us were destined
to meet today.
Wheres my son?
You need to stop this lone wolf
in the eleventh-hour bullshit.
This thing certainly isnt going to end
the way you want it to.
But I know men like you.
You hide behind patriotism.
But the truth will always come to light.
You know absolutely nothing about men
like me.
You use trauma, innocent peoples pain,
as weapons.
This situation is a bit larger
than the loss you...
Whats the point, you wouldnt understand.
I know you have an agenda.
You kill people all across Africa.
And I dont care what the reasons are,
all I want is my child.
(dart shot)
David:
Take him to the laboratory.
Wheres Wesley?
Youll see him again soon, Mr. Abrams.
(pants)
What do you want?
In a word, freedom.
The Chinese and the Americans have
stolen Africas most valuable resources,
taken over our economies
and run our democracies
for their own benefit.
Not anymore.
Im going to take back whats ours.
So you want to start a war?
Kill millions of people.
Perhaps.
But Africa is finally united.
Thanks to my weapons.
If it takes a war to get
the colonial powers off our continent,
then that is what will happen.
Please, you dont care about the people
of Africa.
All you want is power.
So show us what your true motives are.
(grunts, breathes heavily)
You almost threw a spanner in the works,
Mr. Abrams.
But in the end you were quite useful.
We are very close to the finish line,
thanks to you shutting up your wife.
(grunts)
We are very grateful to you.
So Im going to do you a favor.
Your own hands will determine
what happens next.
Will you prepare, Doctor?
His son, Wesley.
No. No, no, no, no!
No!
Do it or must I take over?
Im going to kill you.
- Let me know when youre done.
- Im going to fucking kill you! No!
Please, please,
you dont need to do this, please.
Please!
- (Theo grunts)
- Shit.
- (Gillian groans)
- (grunts, shushes)
Think very carefully
about what your next move is going to be.
Okay? Where is he? Wheres Wesley?
I trusted you, Doc.
And you turned me into a murderer.
So whats happening to you now
is your own fault.
- (gasps)
- Wheres Wesley?
(in English)
The western corridor. (gasps)
Substation three.
(Gillian groans)
(whispers indistinctly)
(gas hissing)
- (knife slashes)
- (groans)
(heavy explosion)
- (explosion)
- (people scream)
- (fire alarm blaring)
- (all screaming)
(indistinct clamor)
- (fire crackling)
- Theo: Wesley!
- (door lock beeps)
- (grunts) Wesley!
(grunts)
Wesley!
(grunts) Wes!
(grunts)
- (fire crackling)
- Wesley!
Wesley!
(groans)
Wesley!
No!
- Wesley!
- (fire crackling)
(grunts)
No!
(screams in pain)
(car engine starts)
(fire crackling)
(coughs)
(grunts)
(pants)
(grunts) Wesley!
(in Afrikaans)
Stand back, Wesley.
(grunts)
Stand back, Wesley.
(grunts)
Wesley? (groans)
(groans)
(breathes heavily)
- (coughs)
- (breathes heavily)
Ive got you.
(Theo grunts)
(grunts)
(fire crackling)
- Daddy? Daddy! Daddy!
- (sirens wailing distantly)
Daddy? Daddy! Daddy! Dad!
- (monitor beeping)
- (handcuffs clanking)
(TV beeps)
David over TV: (in English)
The horrors that have
come to light about M-Tech's
gross abuse of power
left all of us traumatised.
But justice will prevail.
As we look at fixing
the missteps of government,
we must usher in
a time for healing,
in memory of those
countless lives lost,
by those who were
simply misguided.
Thank you.
That was a mere two hours
before Minister of Defense,
David Gordon, was implicated
on charges of terrorism,
racketeering, murder,
and conspiracy,
in connection with the breaking
M-Tech investigation
that sent shockwaves
around the world.
(cries)
- (door slams)
- (gasps, pants)
(handcuffs clattering)
(in Afrikaans)
How are you holding up?
Im doing everything to get you
out of here.
But its going to take a few more days.
Its a unique case, to say the least.
What does it matter?
It doesnt.
Youre a brave man, Theo.
Youre stronger than just about anyone
Ive ever worked with.
But youre punishing
yourself unnecessarily,
for something thats not your fault.
You have to learn to forgive yourself,
no one will do it for you.
Otherwise youll end up a bitter old man
with only regret for company.
You say it doesnt matter.
Tell him that.
(sighs)
(cries)
Daddy, when are you coming home?
(chuckles, cries)
One of these days, okay?
- I promise.
- Wesley: Good.
We need to talk business.
(chuckles)
(clears throat)
Hi.
My name is Theo Abrams.