Lois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman s01e15 Episode Script
Illusions of Grandeur
So much for a nice Sunday fly.
No way.
- You'll never win! - I will win - and I'll beat you down these stairs.
- You know I'll beat you.
- No way.
- You know I'll beat you.
No, you won't! Hey, get back here.
- I'm faster than a speeding bullet.
- No way.
Okay, but I'm faster than you and stronger, too.
No way! Got you.
- What is it? - How am I supposed to know? I didn't put it there.
- Maybe your dad sent it from his trip.
- Yeah.
Cool.
Are you gonna get in, or are you scared? - Aren't you? - No way.
Nothing's happening.
- Maybe you have to close the lid.
- Okay.
So what does it feel like? Hey, Nick.
- Chief, I got a good one.
- Come on, Jimmy.
I told you I'd give you an assignment when the time was right.
The Queen of England in the middle of a state dinner walks out into the garden and she starts dancing in a fountain with one of her beefeaters.
My angle, "A Royal Cry For Help.
" Jimmy, this is a newspaper, not a checkout rag.
The Queen's peccadilloes after a few too many sherries is not my idea of a good one.
- Now - Yes, sir.
how's the real news coming? - Still no leads on those kidnappings.
Seven wealthy children have been taken in the last three months.
All were returned safely after huge ransoms were paid but the kids don't remember what happened to them.
We tried to interview the parents, but they're very high-profile.
CEOs, rock stars, politicians Nobody wants publicity because their children are involved.
Well, I can sure understand that but how many more times can we say there's no new information? - Sorry I'm late.
- Yeah.
Halloween was a few months ago.
What's this? Somebody kick the bucket, or what? Can't a girl get dressed up without sending out a press release? - I think you look very nice.
- Thank you, Clark.
Kind of like a librarian fantasy I had once.
All right, who is he? You don't do anything this drastic unless there's a man involved.
As a matter of fact I happen to be having lunch this afternoon with Arthur Chow.
- He's even richer than Lex Luthor, isn't he? - Second richest man in the world.
Not as handsome as Lex.
He and I are on the same charity committee and we're going to be going over some last-minute details for tonight's Magic of the Night Ball, which I hope you're all planning to attend.
Arthur Chow.
Isn't he a little bit conservative for you? He and I have a lot in common.
You mean those little green pieces of paper with dead presidents on them.
- Exactly.
- Now wait a minute.
You mean to say, you're going to bamboozle this guy into thinking - you're a straight arrow? - That's my plan.
Heaven help him.
All right, now, who's up next? Excuse me, Chief.
Can I help you? - Clark Kent? - Yes.
My name is Rose Collins.
I need you to write a story.
Is something wrong? It's my son Nicky.
There's been a terrible mistake.
- What kind of mistake? - This is Lois Lane, my partner.
You've both been writing about the kidnappings, haven't you? Actually, I've been doing most of the Yes, we have.
Has your son been kidnapped, Mrs.
Collins? Shouldn't you be talking to the police? I'm not supposed to tell them.
Otherwise Nicky will be It's okay.
Here.
How can we help you? I work for Mr.
And Mrs.
Mark Moskal.
- Mark Moskal, the developer? - Yes.
He's practically built every other building in Metropolis.
I take care of the house.
Nicky and I live on the estate.
He and their son, Chris, are both eight, and they always play together, and And the kidnapper took the wrong kid.
The note asks for $5 million by tomorrow night.
The Moskals are en route from their safari.
But all that money.
How can I ask them? Could you write something? Tell the kidnapper he's made a mistake.
Please, help me.
So, this is the other half I've heard so much about.
Bet this thing could pay my rent for three months.
More like a small home in the suburbs.
This is a Remington bronze.
Hey, you must be Chris.
It's okay.
They're going to help us find Nicky.
My Daddy's coming home soon.
He'll take care of it.
I'm sure he would, but until he gets back, we're gonna see what we can do, okay? "I have your son.
If you want to see him alive again "bring $5 million to Hobbs' River Carnival at midnight tomorrow.
"Come alone.
No authorities, or the boy will be" So you were with Nicky when this happened? Tell us what you saw.
A magic box with stars and a moon painted on it.
- Do you remember anything else? - It was shiny.
Look, Nick got in and then he disappeared.
That's all.
He may be blocking out something traumatic.
What's going on here? - Mom! Dad! - Christopher! - Rose, are you all right? - Yes.
Mary Frances and I were worried about you.
- Who are you? - We're from the Daily Planet.
- Rose asked us to come by and - The note said no authorities.
- We haven't told the police.
- Although I think we should.
- They could only help.
- No.
Absolutely not.
Please.
You promised.
I intend to pay the ransom in full, and get the boy back.
And if the two of you do anything to jeopardize his safety Believe us, Mr.
Moskal, we want to see Nick back safe and sound.
We also want to make sure this doesn't happen to children all over Metropolis.
That's not my problem right now.
I think we could use some time alone.
We'll take care of Rose and Nick.
Thank you very much for your concern.
Yes, I understand.
Thank you.
- Anything? - Stymied.
I hate that word.
I hate that feeling.
The police won't discuss any of the other kidnappings.
The other victims' parents want to help, but not on record.
It's like knowing the answer's behind a door and not being able to unlock it.
- Being out of the loop.
- Drives me crazy.
I think this calls for a little magic.
Voilà .
- I'm not going to Cat's party.
- It's for charity.
- Besides, it could be our only lead.
- We haven't got a lead.
Sure we do.
Don't you remember what Chris Moskal said? He saw a magic box.
So maybe there's a magician involved.
That is not a lead.
That's a desperate cry for help.
- Don't you want to help Rose? - Of course, but But what? - I hate magic, that's what.
- How can you hate magic? - This is way beyond the call of duty.
- Abracadabra.
Princess Di have a garage sale? Arthur sent a limo for me.
He's introducing me to his mother tonight.
Perry and Jimmy are already inside.
Enjoy.
- You ready? - Do I have a choice? - This is bunk.
Let's go back to the séance.
- No, come on, wait.
This is interesting.
Still relaxed, still listening to the sound of my voice.
Now, raise your right hand.
Higher.
Good.
Whenever you hear me say the words, "thank you" you'll lift your right hand just as you did.
When I count down slow and snap my fingers you'll awake refreshed.
Five, four, three, two, one.
Let's have a nice round of applause for this lovely young lady.
Thank you.
- See? It works.
- Come on, Jimmy.
Don't be so naive.
The woman is an obvious plant.
A skeptic, ladies and gentlemen.
Perhaps you'll do us the favor of being our next subject.
No.
- Go on, Chief, get up there.
- No.
Prove them wrong.
Go on.
All right.
I'm warning you, don't be disappointed if nothing happens.
I'm a very strong-willed individual.
See the watch? Only the watch.
Hear my voice.
Only my voice.
Breathe in and out.
Relax.
When I count to five you may close your eyes.
One, two, three, four, five.
Excellent.
The subject is ready.
Now, all I need is a posthypnotic suggestion.
- Anybody? - Yeah.
I got one.
Now it's time for a card trick.
You want to move in a little bit closer so you can see well.
Look, it's Darin Romick, the greatest illusionist alive.
- Now, how do you know that? - It says so right here.
I'm not buying it.
"lllusion," Clark, as in "trick," as in "phony.
" He made the Eiffel Tower disappear, Lois.
That does require some kind of talent.
Big deal.
Mirrors, wires, trap doors.
They all have their little secrets.
- Now I get it.
- Get what? - Why you don't like magic.
- Do tell.
It drives you crazy not to be in on the secret.
Thank you.
You always have to know everything about everything.
That's not true.
I like being surprised.
As long as I know about it in advance.
- Classic control-freak behavior.
- Well, thank you, Dr.
Freud.
Full disclosure, no stone left unturned.
I guess that's what makes you a great reporter.
You guess? Life doesn't always have to go exactly according to plan, Lois.
- That would be boring.
- Are you saying my life is boring? I'm saying it could use a little mystery every once in a while, that's all.
And is that your card right there? Thank you.
Now, for my last illusion I will call once again for assistance from the lovely Constance.
Give it up! I also need a little bit of help from you all.
I want you to just feel free to call out as we go along.
- Just name an object in this room.
- Program.
I heard "table.
" How about that one? Will that one do? Grab your drinks, dear.
Hold this, would you, skipper? Constance, can you help the lovely couple up here on stage? I'd like you to name a den animal.
Den animal, anybody? - Rat.
- I heard "rat" and we are lucky because there is a rat in the house.
Would everybody please check under their tables? I got a beat on it.
Here we go! We got it right here.
- No.
This is mink, right? - Yes, it is.
That's close enough to rat for me.
It's a beautiful thing.
- Is this real fur? - Yes, it is.
I've heard some people frown on that.
They'll splatter paint, and stuff like that.
Constance, hold the coat for me.
Thank you very much.
One more thing we need.
We need a live animal.
Some live animal you'd like to see in a zoo.
Elephant.
- Giant panda.
- Giant panda, too easy.
- Cow.
- Cow.
Now you are challenging me.
Constance, can we rustle up a Guernsey? Do it.
Okay, we have got a table with a wonderful couple.
We have got a mink "cousin-of-rat" coat.
And we have Sarah the cow.
Come on, give it up for Sarah.
Sarah, did you bring enough cud for all of us? Okay, now I could not possibly know what these objects were going to be.
There is no trap door large enough to accommodate these items.
What I'm about to do is completely and utterly impossible.
Unless, of course, you believe in magic.
All it takes is a little imagination and some very heavy hydraulics.
Clark, the moon and the stars.
Doesn't that look like the box the boy described to us? It sure does.
To kill some time, maybe I'll have a cup of Joe.
It's black.
I need a little bit of milk in here.
Hey, Sarah, give it up, now.
There you go.
Gone.
Thank you so much, ladies and gentlemen.
Well, you were right about one thing.
- What's that? - We've got a lead.
I sent him away for safekeeping.
If the kidnapper finds out the mistake, I don't want Christopher in any danger.
We understand, but we need to know more about that box he saw.
It's very important to the investigation.
I thought I made myself clear.
There is to be no investigation either by the police or the Daily Planet.
- The phone, Mr.
Moskal.
- Thank you.
Goodbye.
He's meeting the kidnapper with the money tonight.
- Everything's gonna be okay.
- I'm sure it will be.
"Herbert Ralston, owner of the four-star Fitz-Ralston hotel chain "has announced that he will convert all his facilities into shelters for the homeless.
" Something weird is going on here.
All these famous people are doing some crazy things.
Sounds like good gossip to me.
Another date with Chow? This is getting pretty serious.
Seriously stifling.
Yes.
- What happened to the new you? - The old me wanted out for a while.
I don't know how you regular girls do it.
Those clothes are like straitjackets.
What's Arthur Chow doing here? Did he see me? That was almost too easy.
That was low.
Even for you.
Darin Romick wasn't there, but his assistant said she'd talk to us.
I don't think the Great Romick is going to be greatly cooperative.
Let me come, too.
Maybe I can write a sidebar on your story.
It's okay with us, Jimmy, but I don't think Perry will go for it.
I believe I have that covered.
- Mr.
White, I got an idea.
- What is it now, Olsen? Let me go with them on that kidnapping story.
Now, look, Jimmy I'll bring my camera, and even write a sidebar.
- What do you say, Chief? - That's brilliant, Olsen.
What did I tell you? I think things are finally going to be a little different around here.
This club was built over 40 years ago.
A group of magicians wanted a club just for themselves.
My father was a charter member.
It was a very secret society.
Even now, it's only open to members and their guests.
We're here because of the kidnappings.
One of the intended victims said something about a magic box.
And after we saw your show, we thought a magician might be involved.
- Someone from here? - We're not sure, yet.
How does this box thing work, anyway? - It's a combination of distraction and - Genius.
Darin Romick is the greatest that ever lived and I don't think he'd like having his secrets revealed.
- Wouldn't you agree, Constance? - Yes, Arthur.
- So, how is our experiment going? - Fine.
- What experiment? - It's nothing, really.
A little posthypnotic suggestion we gave the young man's boss.
- You hypnotized Perry? - It worked, didn't it? Every time I say the word "chief," he tells me that I'm brilliant.
Jimmy, that's terrible.
Will it work if I say it? The suggestion is very precise.
Only Jimmy's voice will trigger the response.
- So Perry doesn't - Doesn't have to know.
Visitors aren't welcome here until after 6:00.
- We're from the Daily Planet.
- How nice for you.
We think this box trick might have something to do with some kidnappings.
Trick? Dogs do tricks.
I do illusions.
- Want to see one? - No, l You're a reporter, so you're really good at observation.
Let's see if I can trip you up a bit.
Come right here.
I have a deck of cards here.
When you see a black card, you will say "coal.
" When you see a red card, you will say "fire.
" Okay? Keep your wits about you now.
Okay.
- Coal.
- You're a natural.
- Coal.
- Very good.
- Coal.
- Good.
Fire.
- So, what've we got? - Only a theory.
After we left the Magic Club, I called the box trick manufacturer.
There were only two made with the moon and stars design and they both belong to Darin Romick.
I think we have enough for a preliminary story.
- What do you think, Chief? - Absolutely not.
All you've got is speculation, and you both know it.
- Well, so much for that.
- Look at this.
- What's this? The Pope? - Yeah, at a Madonna concert.
Famous people are doing some strange things lately.
I think there's a story here.
- A story? - Yeah.
- What do you say I write it, Chief? - That's brilliant, Jimmy.
Like putty in my hands.
Jimmy, don't you think what you're doing is a bit unethical? It's not like I'm asking him to send me to Tahiti or anything this is strictly business.
- Although a trip to Florida would be nice.
- Jimmy.
Forget I mentioned it.
So who's hungry? We've got two hours to kill.
Until what? Moskal's meeting the kidnapper at midnight.
I plan to be there.
- I don't think that's such a good idea.
- Why not? - It's dangerous, for one thing.
- Since when has that stopped us? Look, Lois, I don't think we should get in the way.
The best thing we could do is wait it out and talk to Moskal afterwards.
- You're right.
- I am? Yeah.
We should be adult about this.
There's no need to get in the middle of it.
We'll just write the story after Rose's son is returned safely home.
- I'm proud of you, Lois.
- Thank you, Clark.
Okay.
I'll meet you at the Moskal estate first thing in the morning.
- Good night.
- Good night.
- Are you feeling okay? - Get your camera.
I'm beginning to appreciate the office.
It's freezing.
- Just take the pictures.
- Pictures? I'm here! I'm alone! I have the money.
Where's the boy? Welcome to the big show.
Put down your money and win a prize.
Nicky.
Nicky? - What've you done? Where's the boy? - He was never here.
- Keep shooting.
- There's no light.
See the watch.
Only the watch.
Hear my voice.
Only my voice.
Your mind is clear.
Your will is gone.
You will obey my commands when you hear this phrase: "The moon and the stars.
" Wrong will seem right to you and you won't remember.
- What's he doing? - I don't know.
Get him, Superman.
Superman.
No! Superman, it's Nick.
No, Superman, it's a mistake.
No, you're making a mistake, it's wrong.
- What the - Superman's been hypnotized? Jimmy, you did it.
You're on the front page again.
Yeah.
I just wish I didn't make Superman look so bad.
Clark, I'm sorry we went out there without you last night.
- Is this really what happened? - Yeah.
Jimmy saw the whole thing, too.
- I don't understand.
- You were so adamant about not going.
- I don't remember any of it.
- Of course you don't.
You weren't there.
Did you get enough sleep last night? You look kind of funny.
I'm fine.
I think.
Are you sure that Superman was hypnotized last night? I can't think of any other explanation for it.
He just gave the boy back to the kidnapper.
He clearly was not in control of what he was doing.
- He really worried me.
- Yeah, me, too.
I just got off the phone with the chief of police.
He says there was no evidence left at the scene.
And nothing in your photographs pointing to anyone but Superman.
- But we all saw it.
Even Moskal.
- Yeah, but Moskal's not talking.
Now, look.
I'm not telling you to drop the story.
I believe you saw what you saw.
You have to get me something concrete.
Great.
Then all we need is a signed confession from the kidnapper - we just turn him in to the police chief.
- That's brilliant, Jimmy.
This is really starting to bug me.
Lois Lane.
That's great, we'll be right there.
That was Constance.
She's going to tell us more about the Magnificent Romick.
Let's go.
You go ahead.
I have someone else I want to talk to.
Okay.
You can understand, can't you? He can be very difficult sometimes.
This is completely off the record.
You are an anonymous source.
Darin went through a real bad time about a year ago.
He got into a lot of debt and at the same time, he lost his big contract in Vegas.
- Gambling problem? - Big one.
The casino owner found out he'd been disguising himself and using his skills to cheat at the table for years.
After that, he was financially wiped out.
Nobody wanted to hire him.
- At least he didn't go to jail.
- But now he's back on top.
Yeah, things started to change about three months ago.
He was rich again.
I thought maybe he'd gone back to the gambling.
But then he said it was all from some anonymous benefactor.
Or a series of kidnappings.
- You don't think that Darin - That's exactly what I think.
What about hypnosis? Does he know how to do it? Yeah.
We do it in our act, but you don't know anything for sure.
- I mean, you don't have proof, do you? - Not yet.
But if he did it, I'll find some sooner or later.
When I snap my fingers, you'll awake happy and safe.
Five, four, three, two, one.
There.
- Is it over? - Yes, my dear.
And you did very well.
You may go to your mother now.
Thanks, Mrs.
Thomas.
- So, what do you think? - Definitely hypnosis.
Each one of them were given a powerful suggestion to forget whatever happened while they were kidnapped.
So powerful, I can't reverse it.
I can't identify it.
Well, there has to be something here that can help us.
The only image a few of them keep remembering is a night sky specifically, a moon and stars.
- What did you say? - Moon and stars.
- Wrong is right.
- Mr.
Kent? Wrong is right.
There's a rogue general in the Persian Gulf about to launch a missile against the President's order.
Perry wants you C.
K.
? There you go.
Thanks.
Superman.
Wrong is right.
Superman, no.
Wrong is right.
No.
I don't remember any of it.
I woke up in my bed in the suit.
That's it.
I didn't know what to do, so I came here.
Do you really think I could be under some kind of hypnosis? Son, one thing we know about you is that anything can happen.
Do you think that my brain works the same as yours does? Well, think about it, Clark.
You were raised to think like a man.
All your perceptions, all your values are human.
Just stands to reason you'd be as susceptible to hypnosis as the next guy.
Yeah, but the consequences are a little bit more disturbing.
- I really could have hurt somebody today.
- But, Clark, you didn't.
Maybe whatever makes you different from us gives you the ability to fight off any negative suggestions.
- But what if it doesn't? - Listen to me, Clark.
The only way you're ever going to be truly safe is if you and Lois find this terrible person before he makes you do anything worse.
Where've you been all day? Jimmy said you left without saying anything.
I've been a little out of it.
Must be the flu coming on.
Constance told me that Romick's had a heavy infusion of cash in the last three months and he's well versed in hypnosis.
What about Dr.
Novak or any other hypnotist for that matter? I know it's Romick.
I just can't prove it.
Clark.
You should have seen it today.
Superman is completely out of control.
It really scared me.
Me, too.
Romick has to be stopped before he can cause any more trouble for Superman.
I'm going to go backstage and see what I can find.
He'll be at least another 20 minutes.
For my next amazement, I need a volunteer from the audience.
How about you? The lovely lady who's trying to leave.
Come right up here on stage, would you, please? Ladies and gentlemen, Lois Lane from the Daily Planet.
Come on.
We'll answer all your questions about magic.
Come on.
Lois, wait.
I What's he gonna do to me in front of all these people? Lois Lane.
Yes.
Right over here.
Just step right up into the box.
A perfectly ordinary magic box.
You're not going to change your mind, are you? I don't think so.
And you might want to lie down here.
Locks.
And now for the most dangerous trick in magic.
The sword box.
You'll have to trust me on this.
You all set? Lined up and the sword goes through her body, all the way through back out the other side.
And the second sword.
And the last one completely and utterly blindfolded.
You are going to love this.
The third sword, the final sword, the one we've all been waiting for right through the middle.
Third one is a charm.
They don't make them like they used to, I guess.
How about a nice round of applause for our assistant, the lovely Lois Lane? And keep your eyes on her.
Here we go.
Ladies and gentlemen, Darin Romick.
You are watching the Magic Channel.
Nick? Where are we? What's going on? Wake up.
How long have you been here? They're really giving TV a bad name.
There must be a way out of here.
Well, don't worry, I'm a capable What was I I've got to You are watching the Magic Channel.
Lois, are you okay? Lois, look at me.
Have you been drugged? Superman.
- Where's my mom? - It's okay.
We'll get you to her as soon as we can.
Who did this to you? I don't remember.
Somebody made me watch the TV.
There's something weird about it.
That's right.
This tape is sending subliminal messages.
My eyes work faster than yours.
I caught it when I glanced over.
Mind control.
Whoever watches this tape is programmed to submit and wait for instructions.
Now let's get out of here.
Look, that's the box I was in.
Well, at least we know there's nothing surprising about this trick anymore.
No.
No surprises.
He must have figured out it was Romick and confronted him.
Where do you think you're going'? Sorry, Romick.
This is one trick you're not going to get away with.
- What're you talking about? - Kidnappings.
Mass hypnosis.
Dr.
Novak.
We know all about it.
Kidnapping? Hypnosis? - You've made some mistake.
- I'm afraid he's right.
Darin Romick never had an idea of his own in his entire life.
Constance, what have you done? What I should have done a long time ago.
I'm in charge now.
The moon and the stars.
It's astounding how little we know about the mind.
Someone like me, for instance with only the rudimentary knowledge of hypnosis that Dr.
Novak taught me can turn the world upside down and have even you, Superman, at my whim.
Fight it, Superman.
Relax, Darin.
You're under a very powerful suggestion.
In fact, I bet you don't even remember killing Dr.
Novak for me, do you? No.
Just like the Queen doesn't remember dancing in her fountain.
Or that general doesn't quite recall why he had to fire that missile without authorization.
They were all test cases.
But you, Superman, you turned out the best.
Now let's take care of our little friends.
- Nick, the sword box.
Get in.
- Yes, ma'am.
I want you to close the lid and make sure the lock is secure.
And next, ladies and gentlemen, the Magnificent Romick will perform his last and most dangerous illusion.
You see that big old ladder going all the way up the wall? I want you to climb to the very top and then fly back down.
- Do you understand? - Yes.
And now, Miss Lane for you, a death-defying stunt.
Over here, please.
That's my girl.
You're going to enjoy a nice swim.
Very good.
Now, climb in.
Superman, pull out the ladder.
Close the lid and make sure the locks are tight.
Now turn on the water.
Now wave goodbye.
It's time to deliver my message.
Superman, you have the honor of activating my satellite: The Magic Channel.
A 24-hour cable channel going into homes all over the world.
And along with the entertainment they'll receive my subliminal signals at no extra charge.
Anyone who watches will be at my complete disposal.
Now go.
It's already in orbit.
All you have to do is throw the broadcast switch.
Fight it, Superman.
- I really could have hurt somebody today.
- But, Clark, you didn't.
Maybe whatever makes you different from us gives you the ability to fight off any negative suggestions.
Listen to me, Clark.
The only way you're ever going to be truly safe is for you and Lois to find this terrible person before he makes you do anything worse.
Fight it, Superman.
No.
- The ability to fight.
- You and Lois.
Fight it, Superman.
I can fly.
No, you can't.
But I can.
Superman, the others.
Are you all right? - What happened? - You were hypnotized.
- No, that's impossible, l - lf she tries it again, fight it.
Romick was right.
We don't have to do anything we don't want to do.
The moon and the stars command you to obey my voice.
Fight it.
You won't win, Superman.
Things aren't always what they seem.
You may have super-vision but all it takes is a split second to be fooled.
It's over, Constance the satellite, the Magic Channel, everything.
Perhaps.
But I'm still the world's greatest magician.
Hello, Miss Lane.
Darin Romick was a penniless card hustler when I found him.
I taught him everything.
Everything my father taught me.
Superman! No one wanted to see a female illusionist.
They didn't take me seriously.
So I got myself a front man who started to believe in his own success.
All this because nobody wanted to see you pull a rabbit out of a hat? It was a secret society that wouldn't let me in.
Now I'm going to show them all what true illusion really is.
You had a great talent, Constance.
But you're the one who wasted it on revenge.
All it takes is a split second.
- You'll be all right? - I'll be fine.
Mom! - I love you, Mom.
- I love you.
- How can I ever thank you? - You've got a pretty tough kid there.
He won't remember a thing.
None of us do.
Nick, you take care of your mom now, okay? I will.
Thanks.
- Be sure to thank Superman for us, too.
- We'll make sure he gets the message.
What happened? Arthur's mother didn't approve? - He married an exotic dancer.
- Arthur Chow? All that itchy, scratchy, high-necked wool and he marries a woman that can wave hello with her bellybutton.
That's too bad, 'cause I already had your wedding present all picked out.
You did? A set of personalized stationery from the desk of Cat Chow.
So that's it? All this strange behavior exhibited by famous people all over the world was linked to Constance.
My angle, "Great Minds Sink Alike.
" That's brilliant, Jimmy.
All right, that's it, I cannot stand this anymore.
I learned my lesson.
If you don't think it's a good idea, just say so.
What the sam hill is he talking about? - He means it, Jimmy.
- No, you're just saying that.
You didn't even call him "chief.
" You mean it? Perry White never says anything he doesn't mean.
When Dr.
Novak was here, I had him deprogrammed.
Way to go, C.
K.
So, you still a skeptic? A trick's a trick, no matter how big or small.
Once you figure it out, it's not magic anymore.
So there's no magic in the world? Not even just a little? No.
- Close your eyes.
- What? Just do it.
- Now count to three.
- One, two, three.
- How did you - lf I told you, then it wouldn't be magic.
English
No way.
- You'll never win! - I will win - and I'll beat you down these stairs.
- You know I'll beat you.
- No way.
- You know I'll beat you.
No, you won't! Hey, get back here.
- I'm faster than a speeding bullet.
- No way.
Okay, but I'm faster than you and stronger, too.
No way! Got you.
- What is it? - How am I supposed to know? I didn't put it there.
- Maybe your dad sent it from his trip.
- Yeah.
Cool.
Are you gonna get in, or are you scared? - Aren't you? - No way.
Nothing's happening.
- Maybe you have to close the lid.
- Okay.
So what does it feel like? Hey, Nick.
- Chief, I got a good one.
- Come on, Jimmy.
I told you I'd give you an assignment when the time was right.
The Queen of England in the middle of a state dinner walks out into the garden and she starts dancing in a fountain with one of her beefeaters.
My angle, "A Royal Cry For Help.
" Jimmy, this is a newspaper, not a checkout rag.
The Queen's peccadilloes after a few too many sherries is not my idea of a good one.
- Now - Yes, sir.
how's the real news coming? - Still no leads on those kidnappings.
Seven wealthy children have been taken in the last three months.
All were returned safely after huge ransoms were paid but the kids don't remember what happened to them.
We tried to interview the parents, but they're very high-profile.
CEOs, rock stars, politicians Nobody wants publicity because their children are involved.
Well, I can sure understand that but how many more times can we say there's no new information? - Sorry I'm late.
- Yeah.
Halloween was a few months ago.
What's this? Somebody kick the bucket, or what? Can't a girl get dressed up without sending out a press release? - I think you look very nice.
- Thank you, Clark.
Kind of like a librarian fantasy I had once.
All right, who is he? You don't do anything this drastic unless there's a man involved.
As a matter of fact I happen to be having lunch this afternoon with Arthur Chow.
- He's even richer than Lex Luthor, isn't he? - Second richest man in the world.
Not as handsome as Lex.
He and I are on the same charity committee and we're going to be going over some last-minute details for tonight's Magic of the Night Ball, which I hope you're all planning to attend.
Arthur Chow.
Isn't he a little bit conservative for you? He and I have a lot in common.
You mean those little green pieces of paper with dead presidents on them.
- Exactly.
- Now wait a minute.
You mean to say, you're going to bamboozle this guy into thinking - you're a straight arrow? - That's my plan.
Heaven help him.
All right, now, who's up next? Excuse me, Chief.
Can I help you? - Clark Kent? - Yes.
My name is Rose Collins.
I need you to write a story.
Is something wrong? It's my son Nicky.
There's been a terrible mistake.
- What kind of mistake? - This is Lois Lane, my partner.
You've both been writing about the kidnappings, haven't you? Actually, I've been doing most of the Yes, we have.
Has your son been kidnapped, Mrs.
Collins? Shouldn't you be talking to the police? I'm not supposed to tell them.
Otherwise Nicky will be It's okay.
Here.
How can we help you? I work for Mr.
And Mrs.
Mark Moskal.
- Mark Moskal, the developer? - Yes.
He's practically built every other building in Metropolis.
I take care of the house.
Nicky and I live on the estate.
He and their son, Chris, are both eight, and they always play together, and And the kidnapper took the wrong kid.
The note asks for $5 million by tomorrow night.
The Moskals are en route from their safari.
But all that money.
How can I ask them? Could you write something? Tell the kidnapper he's made a mistake.
Please, help me.
So, this is the other half I've heard so much about.
Bet this thing could pay my rent for three months.
More like a small home in the suburbs.
This is a Remington bronze.
Hey, you must be Chris.
It's okay.
They're going to help us find Nicky.
My Daddy's coming home soon.
He'll take care of it.
I'm sure he would, but until he gets back, we're gonna see what we can do, okay? "I have your son.
If you want to see him alive again "bring $5 million to Hobbs' River Carnival at midnight tomorrow.
"Come alone.
No authorities, or the boy will be" So you were with Nicky when this happened? Tell us what you saw.
A magic box with stars and a moon painted on it.
- Do you remember anything else? - It was shiny.
Look, Nick got in and then he disappeared.
That's all.
He may be blocking out something traumatic.
What's going on here? - Mom! Dad! - Christopher! - Rose, are you all right? - Yes.
Mary Frances and I were worried about you.
- Who are you? - We're from the Daily Planet.
- Rose asked us to come by and - The note said no authorities.
- We haven't told the police.
- Although I think we should.
- They could only help.
- No.
Absolutely not.
Please.
You promised.
I intend to pay the ransom in full, and get the boy back.
And if the two of you do anything to jeopardize his safety Believe us, Mr.
Moskal, we want to see Nick back safe and sound.
We also want to make sure this doesn't happen to children all over Metropolis.
That's not my problem right now.
I think we could use some time alone.
We'll take care of Rose and Nick.
Thank you very much for your concern.
Yes, I understand.
Thank you.
- Anything? - Stymied.
I hate that word.
I hate that feeling.
The police won't discuss any of the other kidnappings.
The other victims' parents want to help, but not on record.
It's like knowing the answer's behind a door and not being able to unlock it.
- Being out of the loop.
- Drives me crazy.
I think this calls for a little magic.
Voilà .
- I'm not going to Cat's party.
- It's for charity.
- Besides, it could be our only lead.
- We haven't got a lead.
Sure we do.
Don't you remember what Chris Moskal said? He saw a magic box.
So maybe there's a magician involved.
That is not a lead.
That's a desperate cry for help.
- Don't you want to help Rose? - Of course, but But what? - I hate magic, that's what.
- How can you hate magic? - This is way beyond the call of duty.
- Abracadabra.
Princess Di have a garage sale? Arthur sent a limo for me.
He's introducing me to his mother tonight.
Perry and Jimmy are already inside.
Enjoy.
- You ready? - Do I have a choice? - This is bunk.
Let's go back to the séance.
- No, come on, wait.
This is interesting.
Still relaxed, still listening to the sound of my voice.
Now, raise your right hand.
Higher.
Good.
Whenever you hear me say the words, "thank you" you'll lift your right hand just as you did.
When I count down slow and snap my fingers you'll awake refreshed.
Five, four, three, two, one.
Let's have a nice round of applause for this lovely young lady.
Thank you.
- See? It works.
- Come on, Jimmy.
Don't be so naive.
The woman is an obvious plant.
A skeptic, ladies and gentlemen.
Perhaps you'll do us the favor of being our next subject.
No.
- Go on, Chief, get up there.
- No.
Prove them wrong.
Go on.
All right.
I'm warning you, don't be disappointed if nothing happens.
I'm a very strong-willed individual.
See the watch? Only the watch.
Hear my voice.
Only my voice.
Breathe in and out.
Relax.
When I count to five you may close your eyes.
One, two, three, four, five.
Excellent.
The subject is ready.
Now, all I need is a posthypnotic suggestion.
- Anybody? - Yeah.
I got one.
Now it's time for a card trick.
You want to move in a little bit closer so you can see well.
Look, it's Darin Romick, the greatest illusionist alive.
- Now, how do you know that? - It says so right here.
I'm not buying it.
"lllusion," Clark, as in "trick," as in "phony.
" He made the Eiffel Tower disappear, Lois.
That does require some kind of talent.
Big deal.
Mirrors, wires, trap doors.
They all have their little secrets.
- Now I get it.
- Get what? - Why you don't like magic.
- Do tell.
It drives you crazy not to be in on the secret.
Thank you.
You always have to know everything about everything.
That's not true.
I like being surprised.
As long as I know about it in advance.
- Classic control-freak behavior.
- Well, thank you, Dr.
Freud.
Full disclosure, no stone left unturned.
I guess that's what makes you a great reporter.
You guess? Life doesn't always have to go exactly according to plan, Lois.
- That would be boring.
- Are you saying my life is boring? I'm saying it could use a little mystery every once in a while, that's all.
And is that your card right there? Thank you.
Now, for my last illusion I will call once again for assistance from the lovely Constance.
Give it up! I also need a little bit of help from you all.
I want you to just feel free to call out as we go along.
- Just name an object in this room.
- Program.
I heard "table.
" How about that one? Will that one do? Grab your drinks, dear.
Hold this, would you, skipper? Constance, can you help the lovely couple up here on stage? I'd like you to name a den animal.
Den animal, anybody? - Rat.
- I heard "rat" and we are lucky because there is a rat in the house.
Would everybody please check under their tables? I got a beat on it.
Here we go! We got it right here.
- No.
This is mink, right? - Yes, it is.
That's close enough to rat for me.
It's a beautiful thing.
- Is this real fur? - Yes, it is.
I've heard some people frown on that.
They'll splatter paint, and stuff like that.
Constance, hold the coat for me.
Thank you very much.
One more thing we need.
We need a live animal.
Some live animal you'd like to see in a zoo.
Elephant.
- Giant panda.
- Giant panda, too easy.
- Cow.
- Cow.
Now you are challenging me.
Constance, can we rustle up a Guernsey? Do it.
Okay, we have got a table with a wonderful couple.
We have got a mink "cousin-of-rat" coat.
And we have Sarah the cow.
Come on, give it up for Sarah.
Sarah, did you bring enough cud for all of us? Okay, now I could not possibly know what these objects were going to be.
There is no trap door large enough to accommodate these items.
What I'm about to do is completely and utterly impossible.
Unless, of course, you believe in magic.
All it takes is a little imagination and some very heavy hydraulics.
Clark, the moon and the stars.
Doesn't that look like the box the boy described to us? It sure does.
To kill some time, maybe I'll have a cup of Joe.
It's black.
I need a little bit of milk in here.
Hey, Sarah, give it up, now.
There you go.
Gone.
Thank you so much, ladies and gentlemen.
Well, you were right about one thing.
- What's that? - We've got a lead.
I sent him away for safekeeping.
If the kidnapper finds out the mistake, I don't want Christopher in any danger.
We understand, but we need to know more about that box he saw.
It's very important to the investigation.
I thought I made myself clear.
There is to be no investigation either by the police or the Daily Planet.
- The phone, Mr.
Moskal.
- Thank you.
Goodbye.
He's meeting the kidnapper with the money tonight.
- Everything's gonna be okay.
- I'm sure it will be.
"Herbert Ralston, owner of the four-star Fitz-Ralston hotel chain "has announced that he will convert all his facilities into shelters for the homeless.
" Something weird is going on here.
All these famous people are doing some crazy things.
Sounds like good gossip to me.
Another date with Chow? This is getting pretty serious.
Seriously stifling.
Yes.
- What happened to the new you? - The old me wanted out for a while.
I don't know how you regular girls do it.
Those clothes are like straitjackets.
What's Arthur Chow doing here? Did he see me? That was almost too easy.
That was low.
Even for you.
Darin Romick wasn't there, but his assistant said she'd talk to us.
I don't think the Great Romick is going to be greatly cooperative.
Let me come, too.
Maybe I can write a sidebar on your story.
It's okay with us, Jimmy, but I don't think Perry will go for it.
I believe I have that covered.
- Mr.
White, I got an idea.
- What is it now, Olsen? Let me go with them on that kidnapping story.
Now, look, Jimmy I'll bring my camera, and even write a sidebar.
- What do you say, Chief? - That's brilliant, Olsen.
What did I tell you? I think things are finally going to be a little different around here.
This club was built over 40 years ago.
A group of magicians wanted a club just for themselves.
My father was a charter member.
It was a very secret society.
Even now, it's only open to members and their guests.
We're here because of the kidnappings.
One of the intended victims said something about a magic box.
And after we saw your show, we thought a magician might be involved.
- Someone from here? - We're not sure, yet.
How does this box thing work, anyway? - It's a combination of distraction and - Genius.
Darin Romick is the greatest that ever lived and I don't think he'd like having his secrets revealed.
- Wouldn't you agree, Constance? - Yes, Arthur.
- So, how is our experiment going? - Fine.
- What experiment? - It's nothing, really.
A little posthypnotic suggestion we gave the young man's boss.
- You hypnotized Perry? - It worked, didn't it? Every time I say the word "chief," he tells me that I'm brilliant.
Jimmy, that's terrible.
Will it work if I say it? The suggestion is very precise.
Only Jimmy's voice will trigger the response.
- So Perry doesn't - Doesn't have to know.
Visitors aren't welcome here until after 6:00.
- We're from the Daily Planet.
- How nice for you.
We think this box trick might have something to do with some kidnappings.
Trick? Dogs do tricks.
I do illusions.
- Want to see one? - No, l You're a reporter, so you're really good at observation.
Let's see if I can trip you up a bit.
Come right here.
I have a deck of cards here.
When you see a black card, you will say "coal.
" When you see a red card, you will say "fire.
" Okay? Keep your wits about you now.
Okay.
- Coal.
- You're a natural.
- Coal.
- Very good.
- Coal.
- Good.
Fire.
- So, what've we got? - Only a theory.
After we left the Magic Club, I called the box trick manufacturer.
There were only two made with the moon and stars design and they both belong to Darin Romick.
I think we have enough for a preliminary story.
- What do you think, Chief? - Absolutely not.
All you've got is speculation, and you both know it.
- Well, so much for that.
- Look at this.
- What's this? The Pope? - Yeah, at a Madonna concert.
Famous people are doing some strange things lately.
I think there's a story here.
- A story? - Yeah.
- What do you say I write it, Chief? - That's brilliant, Jimmy.
Like putty in my hands.
Jimmy, don't you think what you're doing is a bit unethical? It's not like I'm asking him to send me to Tahiti or anything this is strictly business.
- Although a trip to Florida would be nice.
- Jimmy.
Forget I mentioned it.
So who's hungry? We've got two hours to kill.
Until what? Moskal's meeting the kidnapper at midnight.
I plan to be there.
- I don't think that's such a good idea.
- Why not? - It's dangerous, for one thing.
- Since when has that stopped us? Look, Lois, I don't think we should get in the way.
The best thing we could do is wait it out and talk to Moskal afterwards.
- You're right.
- I am? Yeah.
We should be adult about this.
There's no need to get in the middle of it.
We'll just write the story after Rose's son is returned safely home.
- I'm proud of you, Lois.
- Thank you, Clark.
Okay.
I'll meet you at the Moskal estate first thing in the morning.
- Good night.
- Good night.
- Are you feeling okay? - Get your camera.
I'm beginning to appreciate the office.
It's freezing.
- Just take the pictures.
- Pictures? I'm here! I'm alone! I have the money.
Where's the boy? Welcome to the big show.
Put down your money and win a prize.
Nicky.
Nicky? - What've you done? Where's the boy? - He was never here.
- Keep shooting.
- There's no light.
See the watch.
Only the watch.
Hear my voice.
Only my voice.
Your mind is clear.
Your will is gone.
You will obey my commands when you hear this phrase: "The moon and the stars.
" Wrong will seem right to you and you won't remember.
- What's he doing? - I don't know.
Get him, Superman.
Superman.
No! Superman, it's Nick.
No, Superman, it's a mistake.
No, you're making a mistake, it's wrong.
- What the - Superman's been hypnotized? Jimmy, you did it.
You're on the front page again.
Yeah.
I just wish I didn't make Superman look so bad.
Clark, I'm sorry we went out there without you last night.
- Is this really what happened? - Yeah.
Jimmy saw the whole thing, too.
- I don't understand.
- You were so adamant about not going.
- I don't remember any of it.
- Of course you don't.
You weren't there.
Did you get enough sleep last night? You look kind of funny.
I'm fine.
I think.
Are you sure that Superman was hypnotized last night? I can't think of any other explanation for it.
He just gave the boy back to the kidnapper.
He clearly was not in control of what he was doing.
- He really worried me.
- Yeah, me, too.
I just got off the phone with the chief of police.
He says there was no evidence left at the scene.
And nothing in your photographs pointing to anyone but Superman.
- But we all saw it.
Even Moskal.
- Yeah, but Moskal's not talking.
Now, look.
I'm not telling you to drop the story.
I believe you saw what you saw.
You have to get me something concrete.
Great.
Then all we need is a signed confession from the kidnapper - we just turn him in to the police chief.
- That's brilliant, Jimmy.
This is really starting to bug me.
Lois Lane.
That's great, we'll be right there.
That was Constance.
She's going to tell us more about the Magnificent Romick.
Let's go.
You go ahead.
I have someone else I want to talk to.
Okay.
You can understand, can't you? He can be very difficult sometimes.
This is completely off the record.
You are an anonymous source.
Darin went through a real bad time about a year ago.
He got into a lot of debt and at the same time, he lost his big contract in Vegas.
- Gambling problem? - Big one.
The casino owner found out he'd been disguising himself and using his skills to cheat at the table for years.
After that, he was financially wiped out.
Nobody wanted to hire him.
- At least he didn't go to jail.
- But now he's back on top.
Yeah, things started to change about three months ago.
He was rich again.
I thought maybe he'd gone back to the gambling.
But then he said it was all from some anonymous benefactor.
Or a series of kidnappings.
- You don't think that Darin - That's exactly what I think.
What about hypnosis? Does he know how to do it? Yeah.
We do it in our act, but you don't know anything for sure.
- I mean, you don't have proof, do you? - Not yet.
But if he did it, I'll find some sooner or later.
When I snap my fingers, you'll awake happy and safe.
Five, four, three, two, one.
There.
- Is it over? - Yes, my dear.
And you did very well.
You may go to your mother now.
Thanks, Mrs.
Thomas.
- So, what do you think? - Definitely hypnosis.
Each one of them were given a powerful suggestion to forget whatever happened while they were kidnapped.
So powerful, I can't reverse it.
I can't identify it.
Well, there has to be something here that can help us.
The only image a few of them keep remembering is a night sky specifically, a moon and stars.
- What did you say? - Moon and stars.
- Wrong is right.
- Mr.
Kent? Wrong is right.
There's a rogue general in the Persian Gulf about to launch a missile against the President's order.
Perry wants you C.
K.
? There you go.
Thanks.
Superman.
Wrong is right.
Superman, no.
Wrong is right.
No.
I don't remember any of it.
I woke up in my bed in the suit.
That's it.
I didn't know what to do, so I came here.
Do you really think I could be under some kind of hypnosis? Son, one thing we know about you is that anything can happen.
Do you think that my brain works the same as yours does? Well, think about it, Clark.
You were raised to think like a man.
All your perceptions, all your values are human.
Just stands to reason you'd be as susceptible to hypnosis as the next guy.
Yeah, but the consequences are a little bit more disturbing.
- I really could have hurt somebody today.
- But, Clark, you didn't.
Maybe whatever makes you different from us gives you the ability to fight off any negative suggestions.
- But what if it doesn't? - Listen to me, Clark.
The only way you're ever going to be truly safe is if you and Lois find this terrible person before he makes you do anything worse.
Where've you been all day? Jimmy said you left without saying anything.
I've been a little out of it.
Must be the flu coming on.
Constance told me that Romick's had a heavy infusion of cash in the last three months and he's well versed in hypnosis.
What about Dr.
Novak or any other hypnotist for that matter? I know it's Romick.
I just can't prove it.
Clark.
You should have seen it today.
Superman is completely out of control.
It really scared me.
Me, too.
Romick has to be stopped before he can cause any more trouble for Superman.
I'm going to go backstage and see what I can find.
He'll be at least another 20 minutes.
For my next amazement, I need a volunteer from the audience.
How about you? The lovely lady who's trying to leave.
Come right up here on stage, would you, please? Ladies and gentlemen, Lois Lane from the Daily Planet.
Come on.
We'll answer all your questions about magic.
Come on.
Lois, wait.
I What's he gonna do to me in front of all these people? Lois Lane.
Yes.
Right over here.
Just step right up into the box.
A perfectly ordinary magic box.
You're not going to change your mind, are you? I don't think so.
And you might want to lie down here.
Locks.
And now for the most dangerous trick in magic.
The sword box.
You'll have to trust me on this.
You all set? Lined up and the sword goes through her body, all the way through back out the other side.
And the second sword.
And the last one completely and utterly blindfolded.
You are going to love this.
The third sword, the final sword, the one we've all been waiting for right through the middle.
Third one is a charm.
They don't make them like they used to, I guess.
How about a nice round of applause for our assistant, the lovely Lois Lane? And keep your eyes on her.
Here we go.
Ladies and gentlemen, Darin Romick.
You are watching the Magic Channel.
Nick? Where are we? What's going on? Wake up.
How long have you been here? They're really giving TV a bad name.
There must be a way out of here.
Well, don't worry, I'm a capable What was I I've got to You are watching the Magic Channel.
Lois, are you okay? Lois, look at me.
Have you been drugged? Superman.
- Where's my mom? - It's okay.
We'll get you to her as soon as we can.
Who did this to you? I don't remember.
Somebody made me watch the TV.
There's something weird about it.
That's right.
This tape is sending subliminal messages.
My eyes work faster than yours.
I caught it when I glanced over.
Mind control.
Whoever watches this tape is programmed to submit and wait for instructions.
Now let's get out of here.
Look, that's the box I was in.
Well, at least we know there's nothing surprising about this trick anymore.
No.
No surprises.
He must have figured out it was Romick and confronted him.
Where do you think you're going'? Sorry, Romick.
This is one trick you're not going to get away with.
- What're you talking about? - Kidnappings.
Mass hypnosis.
Dr.
Novak.
We know all about it.
Kidnapping? Hypnosis? - You've made some mistake.
- I'm afraid he's right.
Darin Romick never had an idea of his own in his entire life.
Constance, what have you done? What I should have done a long time ago.
I'm in charge now.
The moon and the stars.
It's astounding how little we know about the mind.
Someone like me, for instance with only the rudimentary knowledge of hypnosis that Dr.
Novak taught me can turn the world upside down and have even you, Superman, at my whim.
Fight it, Superman.
Relax, Darin.
You're under a very powerful suggestion.
In fact, I bet you don't even remember killing Dr.
Novak for me, do you? No.
Just like the Queen doesn't remember dancing in her fountain.
Or that general doesn't quite recall why he had to fire that missile without authorization.
They were all test cases.
But you, Superman, you turned out the best.
Now let's take care of our little friends.
- Nick, the sword box.
Get in.
- Yes, ma'am.
I want you to close the lid and make sure the lock is secure.
And next, ladies and gentlemen, the Magnificent Romick will perform his last and most dangerous illusion.
You see that big old ladder going all the way up the wall? I want you to climb to the very top and then fly back down.
- Do you understand? - Yes.
And now, Miss Lane for you, a death-defying stunt.
Over here, please.
That's my girl.
You're going to enjoy a nice swim.
Very good.
Now, climb in.
Superman, pull out the ladder.
Close the lid and make sure the locks are tight.
Now turn on the water.
Now wave goodbye.
It's time to deliver my message.
Superman, you have the honor of activating my satellite: The Magic Channel.
A 24-hour cable channel going into homes all over the world.
And along with the entertainment they'll receive my subliminal signals at no extra charge.
Anyone who watches will be at my complete disposal.
Now go.
It's already in orbit.
All you have to do is throw the broadcast switch.
Fight it, Superman.
- I really could have hurt somebody today.
- But, Clark, you didn't.
Maybe whatever makes you different from us gives you the ability to fight off any negative suggestions.
Listen to me, Clark.
The only way you're ever going to be truly safe is for you and Lois to find this terrible person before he makes you do anything worse.
Fight it, Superman.
No.
- The ability to fight.
- You and Lois.
Fight it, Superman.
I can fly.
No, you can't.
But I can.
Superman, the others.
Are you all right? - What happened? - You were hypnotized.
- No, that's impossible, l - lf she tries it again, fight it.
Romick was right.
We don't have to do anything we don't want to do.
The moon and the stars command you to obey my voice.
Fight it.
You won't win, Superman.
Things aren't always what they seem.
You may have super-vision but all it takes is a split second to be fooled.
It's over, Constance the satellite, the Magic Channel, everything.
Perhaps.
But I'm still the world's greatest magician.
Hello, Miss Lane.
Darin Romick was a penniless card hustler when I found him.
I taught him everything.
Everything my father taught me.
Superman! No one wanted to see a female illusionist.
They didn't take me seriously.
So I got myself a front man who started to believe in his own success.
All this because nobody wanted to see you pull a rabbit out of a hat? It was a secret society that wouldn't let me in.
Now I'm going to show them all what true illusion really is.
You had a great talent, Constance.
But you're the one who wasted it on revenge.
All it takes is a split second.
- You'll be all right? - I'll be fine.
Mom! - I love you, Mom.
- I love you.
- How can I ever thank you? - You've got a pretty tough kid there.
He won't remember a thing.
None of us do.
Nick, you take care of your mom now, okay? I will.
Thanks.
- Be sure to thank Superman for us, too.
- We'll make sure he gets the message.
What happened? Arthur's mother didn't approve? - He married an exotic dancer.
- Arthur Chow? All that itchy, scratchy, high-necked wool and he marries a woman that can wave hello with her bellybutton.
That's too bad, 'cause I already had your wedding present all picked out.
You did? A set of personalized stationery from the desk of Cat Chow.
So that's it? All this strange behavior exhibited by famous people all over the world was linked to Constance.
My angle, "Great Minds Sink Alike.
" That's brilliant, Jimmy.
All right, that's it, I cannot stand this anymore.
I learned my lesson.
If you don't think it's a good idea, just say so.
What the sam hill is he talking about? - He means it, Jimmy.
- No, you're just saying that.
You didn't even call him "chief.
" You mean it? Perry White never says anything he doesn't mean.
When Dr.
Novak was here, I had him deprogrammed.
Way to go, C.
K.
So, you still a skeptic? A trick's a trick, no matter how big or small.
Once you figure it out, it's not magic anymore.
So there's no magic in the world? Not even just a little? No.
- Close your eyes.
- What? Just do it.
- Now count to three.
- One, two, three.
- How did you - lf I told you, then it wouldn't be magic.
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