Buck Rogers in the 25th Century s01e21 Episode Script
Space Rockers
[Screaming.]
Rambeau, shut it off! : [Narrator.]
A sinister musical mastermind: : : Uses 25th-century rock and roll to plot a youth rebellion which threatens the entire galaxy: - Those kids will be killed: - That concert must not go on! - I'll dispatch Intercepts immediately: - Just a little longer and the galaxy is mine: Let's go! The time is now: Destroy:! Why not just kill him now? [Man Narrating.]
The year is 1987, and NASA launches the last of America's deep space probes: In a freak mishap, Ranger 3 and its pilot, Captain William "Buck'"Rogers, are blown out of their trajectory into an orbit which freezes his life-support systems: : : And returns Buck Rogers to Earth: : : [Rock And Roll.]
[Continues.]
I was afraid you were too good to be true, Tarkas: Your report to New Chicago will have to be delayed: : : Permanently:! Remarkable: When the evacuation system opens, trash from all over Musicworld will be swept into space: This time it will include Tarkas: When does it evacuate? Any second now: [Continues.]
Now, that's Andromeda, the most popular group in the galaxy today: They have an incredible influence over young people: It's amazing: Sounds like the Beatles: - The who? - Not the Who: The Beatles: It was a group that was popular around my time: [Sighs.]
Well, Andromeda is quite a phenomenon, Buck: And possibly a disturbing problem as well: - Problem? Why? - [Theo.]
Captain Rogers? Data has shown that within minutes of an Andromeda concert broadcast from Musicworld, there is a 55% surge in youth crimes: Frankly, we're puzzled and more than a little concerned: But I understand there were similar problems in your time: Not really: Usually music gave kids something to believe in, to identify with: It was a powerful force, but a good one: - What is Musicworld? - It's an abandoned military orbital fortress: It's been taken over and renovated by a conglomerate of music promoters: And totally outside of Directorate jurisdiction, I regret to say: Dr: Theopolis said something about crime: What kind of crime? Why, almost anything: Rioting, looting, wanton destruction: And recently, we've been seeing this sort of thing: - [Buck.]
Looks like some kind of uniform: - Disturbingly so: You think there's some kind of organization behind this? We don't know: We're investigating here: We've inserted an agent in Musicworld: Of course all our actions are unilateral: - And off the record: - If you mean unauthorized, yes: What has your agent been able to come up with so far? Nothing specific yet: But Tarkas's last report indicates that he is onto something: His cover is as Andromeda sound tech: He codes his reports and sends them as part of the concert's transmission: Yes: We'll be receiving something a little later on in this transmission: [Continues.]
Yarat, help me install this: Now: : : We tighten the screws: [Laughing.]
Whoo! Let's go! [Theo.]
We have the message from Tarkas: Decoding is complete: - "Veck"? - What's the rest of the message, Theo? The message broke off in mid-transmission: Maybe it wasn't safe for Tarkas to continue: We'll get the rest later: - [Beeping.]
- What is it, Doctor? I have a report that disruptions have broken out again at the Youth Center: [Theo.]
More information, Doctor: New Chicago Spaceport informs me that two young people have stolen a starfighter, numerals 1314: That's my ship:! Those kids'll be killed:! I'll dispatch intercepts immediately: [Buck.]
Cancel that: I'll go after them myself: Have a ship stand by, Wilma, while I change into my flight gear: [Continues.]
What's this thing doin', Elaine? Almost half-lightspeed: Half-lightspeed? We're still standing still, Elaine! Okay, gang, the ride's over: What are you talkin'about? We'rejust beginnin'to fly:! [Buck.]
Not in my ship, you're not: He's gonna have to catch us first, Mark: You better back off the power: At that speed, you're going to start phasing: [Mark, Elaine Laughing.]
[Continues.]
[Ends.]
Mark, what are we doing? L-I don't know: How do we stop this thing? - [Elaine.]
Maybe if I cut the power: - Don't! You chop the power, the controls'll freeze on ya! - Nothing happens! We're still accelerating! - What do we do? Reach below the seat: There's a red emergency box: Open it, pull the switch: And hurry! Just sit back, keep your hands off of everything: [Buck.]
I'm taking over by remote: All right, what exactly is going on? L I don't know: It was so strange: We're at the Youth Center watching Andromeda, having a wonderful time when Yeah, and suddenly everybody went crazy: Like someone pulled a switch: I don't buy that: "The devil made me do it" was obsolete thinking even in the 20th century: We really couldn't stop: That's right: I could see what was happening, but it was like watching two other people doing it: What about these two? Have they ever been in trouble before? No: That's the intriguing thing: They're two fine young people: The music again? Yes, that had crossed my mind: Mine too: Look, about these two I don't want to press charges: What are you gonna do with us? You're not gonna take us to the Rehab Center, are you? - Oh, no: Worse: - Worse? We're going to send you home to your parents: Dr: Huer, a starfighter patrol has just found Tarkas's body floating in space: He's been murdered: That's why the transmission was interrupted: That settles it: Something is seriously wrong in Musicworld: If only we didn't have so little to go on: Why don't I take a closer look at Musicworld? Maybe I can come up with something: That's a possibility, Buck: Except whoever's behind this has been alerted, and you could cause a great deal of suspicion: - Not if there's a good reason for me to be there: - On Musicworld? Andromeda's scheduled to give their first galaxywide concert in two days: - How's that going to help us? - It's a natural: A man from the 20th century, the time when rock and roll was born, goes to Musicworld and introduces Andromeda to the rest of the galaxy: - It's a great promotion: - [Chirping.]
And a great cover! That's brilliant, Buck: Absolutely brilliant: And the person who promotes most of the concerts on Musicworld is a friend of ours whose name is Wesland: I'm sure he could get you into this one: Great! I'll prepare to leave immediately: - [Twiki.]
You're gonna need some company, Buck: - Absolutely: Take Twiki with you: [Theo.]
It's possible I could be of some assistance as well, Dr: Huer: I agree with you, Doctor: Colonel Deering and I can coordinate things from this end: Great: Let's get going, guys: You kids were fantastic! Every time you broadcast, it's like I'm seeing you again for the first time: Come on, you say that all the time: Because it's true: Cirus, those double-looped afterbeats on "Stardrift" were fabulous: I didn't think it would work: As usual, you were right: I may have an idea once in a while, but if it weren't for this group Hey, if it wasn't for you, where would we be? That's right, Mangros: You made us: That may be a bit overstated, Rambeau, but: : : Thank you: Karana, are you going to include "Timewalk" on the galaxywide broadcast? Why? The mood of that song is so quiet, so thoughtful: You see, on that broadcast we want to be always building, climbing toward a climax never reached before: Yeah: Well, listen, if you think that's best then we'll drop it, right? It's not what I think: It's what we all think together: Give it some thought: Anything you say, Lars: Everything is set on Musicworld: Wesland has agreed to feature you as the emcee on the broadcast: He's contacting Andromeda's manager now: - What's his name? - Mangros: Apparently he's one of the best in the music world: What do we know about him? Nothing as yet, but Colonel Deering is going to prepare a biofile on him: Then he'll be expecting me? [Dr: Huer.]
Oh, yes, I'm sure of it: Mmm, I don't like it, Yarat: Wesland is the promoter: He insisted we use Rogers on the broadcast: I suppose he's harmless enough: No one that close to New Chicago's leadership is harmless: Sir, one person can hardly be a threat to you: True: I always knew I was destined for greatness: The particle ionizer is my assurance: When the transmission begins at 1900 hours, everyone in the galaxy under 30 will be in the entertainment centers: And with the ionizer at full power Instant uncontrollable riots: : : Among young people on every planet: All authority will collapse within a few hours: Afterward, the heads of the galactic governments: : : Will have to come to me: Then, and only then, will I restore order: What about this Rogers? Rogers will be returning to New Chicago an hour after he arrives: : : On a hospital shuttle: That's some welcoming committee, eh, Twiki? I thought we were stars: I guess not: Let's look around and see if we can find someone to point us in the right direction: [Hangar P: A: Announcer.]
Will the sonic engineer for Entro-Beat please call Control Room "K: '" And I wanted a welcoming committee: [Chirping.]
Right behind ya, Buck: [Chirping.]
Take that, you bozo! - Thanks, Twiki: - [Chirping.]
Glad to help, Buck: There's a Captain Rogers here to see you: Is something wrong, Lars? Just show Rogers in: About tonight, Lars: We'll still be able to have dinner, won't we? We'll see: Captain Rogers is waiting, Joanna: Captain Rogers:! Come in: Lars Mangros: How good of you to come to Musicworld: I wouldn't have missed it for anything: I can't apologize enough: First I get the time wrong and miss your arrival: - Then the incident with those hoodlums: - Yes: Does that happen often? Not to Musicworld natives: But some of these kids think of strangers as their legitimate prey: Well, I'm willing to forget about it: Yes, it's best forgotten: Listen, about the concert: Mr: Wesland felt that I'd be a perfect emcee, but I haven't had much experience at this sort of thing: I assumed you weren't a professional entertainer: I've already arranged for some writers: We'll do everything we can to make it easy for you: Thanks: That'll be great: I'll have you escorted down to meet Andromeda: They're recording right now: Fine: [Rock And Roll.]
Thank you: [Ends.]
All right, let's try that one: So, you must be the famous Buck Rogers: And you must be the famous Karana: And you are? Rambeau, Cirus: Hiya, Cirus: [Technician.]
Want to hear it back? Not especially, but go ahead: [Rock And Roll.]
Enough! [Sighs.]
What was the matter with that? Sounded great to me: Well, we have a new soundman, and he's not quite there yet: What happened to the old one? Disappeared, drifted on: You know how these people are: So, we have you on Musicworld for a couple of days, hmm? Looks that way: I'd be glad to show you around a little: I'd like that very much: See you back at my quarters, Twiki: [Chirping.]
Gotcha, boss: Your group has really got a great sound: It's reminiscent of Oh, yeah? Yeah, really: [Girls Giggling.]
Hello there: There you go: Thank you: Thank you! Every time I go out, I come back needing a hand transplant: Everybody wants to touch a hero: That's not all they want: Autographs, pictures, advice, words of wisdom: I mean, all I am is a musician! Not to them you're not: They're crazy about ya: [Sighs.]
Sometimes I think that's exactly what they are: What? Crazy: Look! They're the kind of fans we'd like to do without: Who? Those people in the black uniforms? It's strange, Buck: We've got a huge following among those gangs: But who they are and what they do is completely opposite from everything we believe in: Have you tried reaching them, talking to them? Yeah, we tried for a while, but then Lars said: : : That no one wanted to hear us sermonize, so we quit talking: You do everything Lars Mangros tells you? We owe him a lot, Buck: He made Andromeda into what it is: Without him That pendant you're wearing: I notice everyone in the group wears them: What are they for? Oh, good luck, I guess: Lars gave them to us just before our first concert: He said that if we never took them off, nothing could ever go wrong: And? And so far so good: Things couldn't be better: He's a wonderful person, Buck: He really is: Anything new from your end? No new reports of youth-related violence anywhere: Hmm: And no Andromeda concerts recently either: That's right: Colonel Deering has completed part of her research on Lars Mangros: What have you got, Wilma? Actually, very little: Lars Mangros is some sort of musical genius: He's generally credited for creating the Andromeda sound: The Andromeda sound: Good old rock and roll: Exactly: Before he got into music, he was a research engineer: Apparently he wrote some highly respected papers: : : Dealing in something called "particle movement theory:" - Ring any bells? - No, I'm afraid not, Wilma: I'm going to the control room later tonight: Maybe I'll find something there: That doesn't sound safe: I don't think there'll be any problems: It's been pretty quiet around here: Be careful: We still don't know what or who we're dealing with: So: : : Captain Rogers is not an entertainer after all: An actor, perhaps: : : But not an entertainer: Shall I send a squad to his room? No: We need something more subtle: You wanted me, Lars? Leave us: I wanted to apologize to you for last night: It seems I've been letting business interfere with our relationship: I was afraid you didn't find me attractive anymore: Joanna, you know I think you're the most beautiful woman in the galaxy: A toast: To our new togetherness: Darling, there is one thing I have to ask of you: Anything, Lars: You do love me, don't you? Yes, of course I do: - I want you to prove it: - How? Very simple: Tonight I want you to entertain Captain Rogers: Lars, I don't even know Captain Rogers: Trust me, Joanna: And do this for me, just this once: Please? [Sighs.]
All right: Let's hope this microchip I found in the office: : : Can tell us something: There's that word "veck'"again: Dr: Theopolis, what are we looking at? [Theo.]
This is the brain wave pattern of an adolescent human: - What are those high peaks? - Severe disturbance, externally caused: - By what? - I can't determine that: Physical shock: Perhaps stimulants: How long would it take you to analyze one of Andromeda's recordings? A few moments: Their music has been logged in the archives: Great: Let's do it: [Beeping.]
How are things going up there, Buck? We may have found some connection between the music and the riots: - We've come across some rather disturbing information down here: - What is it? I've been in touch with directorates on other planets: Each one of them has had problems with youth violence similar to ours: And without exception, each outbreak has followed a concert by Andromeda: I met the group: They seem all right: That may be: But can you imagine what it'll be like after that galactic transmission tomorrow night? But Doc, we're still not certain it's the music: We can't take a chance on that: The Earth Council has voted to block the broadcast: There's a jammer satellite in position already: If you block that broadcast, I can guarantee you you'll have riots all over the galaxy: Why? The kids'll take it as a move against them: They won't like it at all: Doc, have you ever heard the expression "veck"? Certainly: It's a contraction of the word "vector:" It's used in biology, principally, and it has to do with a microorganism which carries another: [Chirping.]
Piggyback: - Yeah, but what's it got to do with music? - I can't answer that: All right: Look, we've got a few hours left before the broadcast: Maybe I can try to fit these pieces together before then: I hope so: Good luck: Thanks, Doc: [Sighs.]
Well, Theo, what have you come up with? My analysis shows that the music could have: : : No adverse effect on anyone listening to it: That means we're right back where we started: Wilma mentioned something about Mangros working with particle movement theory: That might tie in somehow with this vectoring: Check it out, will ya? Certainly, Captain: Captain Rogers? - May I talk to you? - Sure: Uh, privately? It's very important: You guys mind leaving us alone? I'll only be a little while: [Chirping.]
Not if she can help it: See ya, babe: I think this will add something toJoanna's visit with Captain Rogers: What is this all about? You'll probably think I'm being silly: [Buck Over Intercom.]
Not if it's important to you: I just wanted to spend some time with you: Well, maybe later we could: I just couldn't keep away any longer: Well, uh, Joanna, that's all very nice, but No, Buck, you don't understand: Joanna, really! Really, I think you've got the wrong guy: - Don't you find me attractive? - Certainly! Then hold me: : : Just for a moment: Please? [Rock And Roll.]
[Continues.]
[Joanna.]
Oh, Buck:! Let go! [Stops.]
What am I doing? Captain Rogers! Nothing much: Just trying to kill me: I did? I don't know why! It was like I was on the outside watching: A lot of people seem to be having that problem these days: - You gotta get outta this place: - Leave Musicworld? Lars is here: He may be a very large part of the problem: Listen to me: Go straight to the hangar: I'll arrange for a shuttle to take you to Earth: What if Lars finds out? Look, if I put you on the shuttle myself, will you go? Okay: All right, come on: I'll meet you there in half an hour: [Chirping.]
Somebody rain on her parade? And almost on mine: Anything on Mangros? Quite a bit actually: He authored a highly classified monograph: : : On "The Effects of Ionized Wave Particles to Regulate Human Behavior:" May I quote? Yeah, go ahead: "It is essential that any ionized particle transmission be amplified: : : "By carrying it on a highly charged wave such as sound: In that event, the emotions of any human may be readily controlled: '" The piggyback method: Mangros is transmitting those ionized particles in Andromeda's music: Correct, Captain: I did find an ionized particle transmission in the music: That's why there can't be a concert tonight: Let's go see the group: - I don't believe it! - Neither do l: Look, Buck, I realize that you're trying to solve this problem: But you're missing something: Why doesn't the music affect us? I'll show you why: Rambeau, would you play back your last concert for me, please? [Rock And Roll.]
Well? None of us are tearing anybody's throat out: Take off your necklace: [Screaming.]
Rambeau, shut it off! : [Stops.]
I don't believe it: I tried to kill you: Your necklace acts as a filter: Imagine that happening to millions of kids all over the galaxy when Andromeda plays tonight: We've got to talk to Lars: There'll be no concert tonight: - I don't think that's a good idea: - What can he do? - If we go, he's got nothing: - That's right: Besides, he's been more than just a manager to us: We owe it to him to talk to him ourselves: That's the way it's gotta be: All right: I gotta putJoanna on the shuttle to Earth: I'll do that while you talk to Mangros: But I want you back in my quarters in an hour: You understand? We'll be there: Thank you: [Karana.]
You aren't going to deny this? Why should I? It's all true: [Laughing.]
Besides, my plans hardly require your approval: : : Or even your presence: I've got a vid-library of all your performances: Andromeda will appear tonight at 1900 hours, exactly as scheduled: And none of your mindless fans will know it's not a live transmission: Put them somewhere safe: I'll think of a suitable accident later: It's been almost two hours, Twiki: Mangros must have Andromeda somewhere: He's probably gonna try to force them to play: [Chirping.]
That's not music to my ears: It's not to mine, either: If we can find that ion transmitter and destroy it, Mangros can't do anything: - [Chirping.]
But where is it, Buck? - [Theo.]
I believe I can help, Captain: My sensors indicate at this moment it is in Mangros's office: This is an old military satellite: - Do you have the plans stored, Theo? - Yes: Is there some way to get to his office without being seen? The only possibility is through the waste disposal system: That's a way? The only way, Captain: But unfortunately the duct is too small to accommodate a man in certain areas: [Chirping.]
How about a little squirt like me? A little squirt? It's gotta work: We don't have any alternatives: [Chirping.]
So give me a boost, Buck: Come here: Twiki, Theo will show you the way: When you find that transmitter, destroy it: [Chirping.]
Gotcha, boss: I'm gonna try to locate Andromeda before Mangros takes some action we might all regret: Good luck: Going somewhere, Captain? Pity: We were just coming to visit you: - I was gonna run over my speech: - I'm sure you were: Put him with Andromeda: Why not just kill him now? Because we want to arrange a spectacular martyrs'death for everyone: : : After the concert transmission: Buck, what happened? I think I zigged when I should've zagged: [Twiki.]
I should've brought my stilts: [Theo.]
Keep going, Twiki: The next hatch should enter into Mangros's office: [Twiki.]
There it is: This is an unacceptable situation, Mangros: I demand to know where Captain Rogers is: We all do, Dr: Huer: After all, the concert is due to begin in minutes: That concert must not go on! I'm surprised at you, Doctor: Young people from all over the galaxy are waiting to hear Andromeda: Mangros, the Earth Directorate has placed a jammer satellite: : : In orbit around Musicworld: You give me no alternative but to utilize it: - Don't be foolish, Doctor: - I'm afraid you're the one that's being foolish: Tsk-tsk-tsk: How unfortunate, Doctor: Apparently some vandals must have booby-trapped your satellite: I assure you, I'll open an investigation: : : After the concert: Good night, Dr: Huer: Enjoy the concert: [Chirping.]
L I can't reach it: [Chirping.]
What's happening? - [Chirping.]
- [Theo.]
We will be blown into space: [Beeping.]
[Chirping.]
Uh-oh: I think I'm in trouble: [Chirping.]
[Twiki.]
Is this what they mean by "hanging out"? [Chirping.]
You didn't tell me we could get flushed: [Theo.]
It was not in my files: They must have modified the system: [Chirping.]
Let's get outta here! [Theo.]
No, the evacuation will be periodic: We have time to try again for the transmitter: It's like ten-point steel: Well, it's cronide: We've got to figure a way outta here: And hope that Twiki and Theo can get to that transmitter: Alert all security units: Full emergency status: [Rock And Roll.]
How many cycles per second do you think you can get out of this organ? There's no limit: What effect do you think that would have on cronide? First we'd have to disconnect the C: P: S: Governor Yeah, but then we can connect the speaker to it: Right! Let's get to it: [Chirping.]
The lug beat us to it: Hello: How is everybody? [Cheering, Shouting.]
We have the entire galaxy wired for audio response, and I can't hear you: One more time: How is everybody? [All.]
Fine! [Crowd Cheering.]
That's better: All right, here they are: : : In their first galaxywide broadcast, a performance you will never forget Andromeda! [Cheering Continues.]
Roll vid-version: [Crowd Chanting.]
Andromeda:! We want Andromeda:! [Rock And Roll.]
It's hopeless, Doctor: Their transmission is too powerful: We can't block it: - Ready here: - Got it? All set: Okay, guys, here: I think you better put these on: [High-pitched Beeping.]
[Beeping Continues.]
Let's get to the broadcast stage: - When I go onstage, turn the transmitter to full output: - Yes: Is there any other way backstage? Keep your fingers crossed: I'm gonna try to draw them off: [Chirping.]
These ducts are much larger, Buck, and lead directly backstage: [Continues.]
When we get to the Youth Center, I want your men to keep a very low profile: It's too dangerous: Those kids won't listen: We have to try: What's the report from the other planets? Same as everywhere else: Riots breaking out all over the galaxy: [Continues.]
All right: I'll take out Yarat and the transmitter: When the vid-version of Andromeda stops, I want you to take its place: You're gonna give the galaxy a real concert: [Twiki.]
And give Mangros a big surprise: We'll be there, Buck: Okay: Let's go, Twiki: [Continues.]
[High-pitched Beeping.]
All right, Twiki: [Chirps.]
Bombs away! [Beeping Stops.]
- [Stops.]
- [Chattering, Murmuring.]
Youth of the galaxy, listen to me: The time has come to demand your freedom, to create your own lives: I will show you how: Andromeda will show you the way: The time is now:! Go into the streets: Let nothing, let no one stop you! Destroy, so we can begin rebuilding a new galaxy, our galaxy! Who's that wacko? I don't know: Follow me, people! A Andromeda and Lars Mangros will show you the way! [Laughing.]
[Chattering, Laughing.]
[Chattering, Laughing Continue.]
[Laughing.]
Oh! Well: : : Let's do it: [Rock And Roll.]
Arrange for the Directorate to pick up Mangros: Yes, sir: Thank you, Buck: [Chirping.]
Long live rock and roll, Buck:! [Chuckles.]
All right!
Rambeau, shut it off! : [Narrator.]
A sinister musical mastermind: : : Uses 25th-century rock and roll to plot a youth rebellion which threatens the entire galaxy: - Those kids will be killed: - That concert must not go on! - I'll dispatch Intercepts immediately: - Just a little longer and the galaxy is mine: Let's go! The time is now: Destroy:! Why not just kill him now? [Man Narrating.]
The year is 1987, and NASA launches the last of America's deep space probes: In a freak mishap, Ranger 3 and its pilot, Captain William "Buck'"Rogers, are blown out of their trajectory into an orbit which freezes his life-support systems: : : And returns Buck Rogers to Earth: : : [Rock And Roll.]
[Continues.]
I was afraid you were too good to be true, Tarkas: Your report to New Chicago will have to be delayed: : : Permanently:! Remarkable: When the evacuation system opens, trash from all over Musicworld will be swept into space: This time it will include Tarkas: When does it evacuate? Any second now: [Continues.]
Now, that's Andromeda, the most popular group in the galaxy today: They have an incredible influence over young people: It's amazing: Sounds like the Beatles: - The who? - Not the Who: The Beatles: It was a group that was popular around my time: [Sighs.]
Well, Andromeda is quite a phenomenon, Buck: And possibly a disturbing problem as well: - Problem? Why? - [Theo.]
Captain Rogers? Data has shown that within minutes of an Andromeda concert broadcast from Musicworld, there is a 55% surge in youth crimes: Frankly, we're puzzled and more than a little concerned: But I understand there were similar problems in your time: Not really: Usually music gave kids something to believe in, to identify with: It was a powerful force, but a good one: - What is Musicworld? - It's an abandoned military orbital fortress: It's been taken over and renovated by a conglomerate of music promoters: And totally outside of Directorate jurisdiction, I regret to say: Dr: Theopolis said something about crime: What kind of crime? Why, almost anything: Rioting, looting, wanton destruction: And recently, we've been seeing this sort of thing: - [Buck.]
Looks like some kind of uniform: - Disturbingly so: You think there's some kind of organization behind this? We don't know: We're investigating here: We've inserted an agent in Musicworld: Of course all our actions are unilateral: - And off the record: - If you mean unauthorized, yes: What has your agent been able to come up with so far? Nothing specific yet: But Tarkas's last report indicates that he is onto something: His cover is as Andromeda sound tech: He codes his reports and sends them as part of the concert's transmission: Yes: We'll be receiving something a little later on in this transmission: [Continues.]
Yarat, help me install this: Now: : : We tighten the screws: [Laughing.]
Whoo! Let's go! [Theo.]
We have the message from Tarkas: Decoding is complete: - "Veck"? - What's the rest of the message, Theo? The message broke off in mid-transmission: Maybe it wasn't safe for Tarkas to continue: We'll get the rest later: - [Beeping.]
- What is it, Doctor? I have a report that disruptions have broken out again at the Youth Center: [Theo.]
More information, Doctor: New Chicago Spaceport informs me that two young people have stolen a starfighter, numerals 1314: That's my ship:! Those kids'll be killed:! I'll dispatch intercepts immediately: [Buck.]
Cancel that: I'll go after them myself: Have a ship stand by, Wilma, while I change into my flight gear: [Continues.]
What's this thing doin', Elaine? Almost half-lightspeed: Half-lightspeed? We're still standing still, Elaine! Okay, gang, the ride's over: What are you talkin'about? We'rejust beginnin'to fly:! [Buck.]
Not in my ship, you're not: He's gonna have to catch us first, Mark: You better back off the power: At that speed, you're going to start phasing: [Mark, Elaine Laughing.]
[Continues.]
[Ends.]
Mark, what are we doing? L-I don't know: How do we stop this thing? - [Elaine.]
Maybe if I cut the power: - Don't! You chop the power, the controls'll freeze on ya! - Nothing happens! We're still accelerating! - What do we do? Reach below the seat: There's a red emergency box: Open it, pull the switch: And hurry! Just sit back, keep your hands off of everything: [Buck.]
I'm taking over by remote: All right, what exactly is going on? L I don't know: It was so strange: We're at the Youth Center watching Andromeda, having a wonderful time when Yeah, and suddenly everybody went crazy: Like someone pulled a switch: I don't buy that: "The devil made me do it" was obsolete thinking even in the 20th century: We really couldn't stop: That's right: I could see what was happening, but it was like watching two other people doing it: What about these two? Have they ever been in trouble before? No: That's the intriguing thing: They're two fine young people: The music again? Yes, that had crossed my mind: Mine too: Look, about these two I don't want to press charges: What are you gonna do with us? You're not gonna take us to the Rehab Center, are you? - Oh, no: Worse: - Worse? We're going to send you home to your parents: Dr: Huer, a starfighter patrol has just found Tarkas's body floating in space: He's been murdered: That's why the transmission was interrupted: That settles it: Something is seriously wrong in Musicworld: If only we didn't have so little to go on: Why don't I take a closer look at Musicworld? Maybe I can come up with something: That's a possibility, Buck: Except whoever's behind this has been alerted, and you could cause a great deal of suspicion: - Not if there's a good reason for me to be there: - On Musicworld? Andromeda's scheduled to give their first galaxywide concert in two days: - How's that going to help us? - It's a natural: A man from the 20th century, the time when rock and roll was born, goes to Musicworld and introduces Andromeda to the rest of the galaxy: - It's a great promotion: - [Chirping.]
And a great cover! That's brilliant, Buck: Absolutely brilliant: And the person who promotes most of the concerts on Musicworld is a friend of ours whose name is Wesland: I'm sure he could get you into this one: Great! I'll prepare to leave immediately: - [Twiki.]
You're gonna need some company, Buck: - Absolutely: Take Twiki with you: [Theo.]
It's possible I could be of some assistance as well, Dr: Huer: I agree with you, Doctor: Colonel Deering and I can coordinate things from this end: Great: Let's get going, guys: You kids were fantastic! Every time you broadcast, it's like I'm seeing you again for the first time: Come on, you say that all the time: Because it's true: Cirus, those double-looped afterbeats on "Stardrift" were fabulous: I didn't think it would work: As usual, you were right: I may have an idea once in a while, but if it weren't for this group Hey, if it wasn't for you, where would we be? That's right, Mangros: You made us: That may be a bit overstated, Rambeau, but: : : Thank you: Karana, are you going to include "Timewalk" on the galaxywide broadcast? Why? The mood of that song is so quiet, so thoughtful: You see, on that broadcast we want to be always building, climbing toward a climax never reached before: Yeah: Well, listen, if you think that's best then we'll drop it, right? It's not what I think: It's what we all think together: Give it some thought: Anything you say, Lars: Everything is set on Musicworld: Wesland has agreed to feature you as the emcee on the broadcast: He's contacting Andromeda's manager now: - What's his name? - Mangros: Apparently he's one of the best in the music world: What do we know about him? Nothing as yet, but Colonel Deering is going to prepare a biofile on him: Then he'll be expecting me? [Dr: Huer.]
Oh, yes, I'm sure of it: Mmm, I don't like it, Yarat: Wesland is the promoter: He insisted we use Rogers on the broadcast: I suppose he's harmless enough: No one that close to New Chicago's leadership is harmless: Sir, one person can hardly be a threat to you: True: I always knew I was destined for greatness: The particle ionizer is my assurance: When the transmission begins at 1900 hours, everyone in the galaxy under 30 will be in the entertainment centers: And with the ionizer at full power Instant uncontrollable riots: : : Among young people on every planet: All authority will collapse within a few hours: Afterward, the heads of the galactic governments: : : Will have to come to me: Then, and only then, will I restore order: What about this Rogers? Rogers will be returning to New Chicago an hour after he arrives: : : On a hospital shuttle: That's some welcoming committee, eh, Twiki? I thought we were stars: I guess not: Let's look around and see if we can find someone to point us in the right direction: [Hangar P: A: Announcer.]
Will the sonic engineer for Entro-Beat please call Control Room "K: '" And I wanted a welcoming committee: [Chirping.]
Right behind ya, Buck: [Chirping.]
Take that, you bozo! - Thanks, Twiki: - [Chirping.]
Glad to help, Buck: There's a Captain Rogers here to see you: Is something wrong, Lars? Just show Rogers in: About tonight, Lars: We'll still be able to have dinner, won't we? We'll see: Captain Rogers is waiting, Joanna: Captain Rogers:! Come in: Lars Mangros: How good of you to come to Musicworld: I wouldn't have missed it for anything: I can't apologize enough: First I get the time wrong and miss your arrival: - Then the incident with those hoodlums: - Yes: Does that happen often? Not to Musicworld natives: But some of these kids think of strangers as their legitimate prey: Well, I'm willing to forget about it: Yes, it's best forgotten: Listen, about the concert: Mr: Wesland felt that I'd be a perfect emcee, but I haven't had much experience at this sort of thing: I assumed you weren't a professional entertainer: I've already arranged for some writers: We'll do everything we can to make it easy for you: Thanks: That'll be great: I'll have you escorted down to meet Andromeda: They're recording right now: Fine: [Rock And Roll.]
Thank you: [Ends.]
All right, let's try that one: So, you must be the famous Buck Rogers: And you must be the famous Karana: And you are? Rambeau, Cirus: Hiya, Cirus: [Technician.]
Want to hear it back? Not especially, but go ahead: [Rock And Roll.]
Enough! [Sighs.]
What was the matter with that? Sounded great to me: Well, we have a new soundman, and he's not quite there yet: What happened to the old one? Disappeared, drifted on: You know how these people are: So, we have you on Musicworld for a couple of days, hmm? Looks that way: I'd be glad to show you around a little: I'd like that very much: See you back at my quarters, Twiki: [Chirping.]
Gotcha, boss: Your group has really got a great sound: It's reminiscent of Oh, yeah? Yeah, really: [Girls Giggling.]
Hello there: There you go: Thank you: Thank you! Every time I go out, I come back needing a hand transplant: Everybody wants to touch a hero: That's not all they want: Autographs, pictures, advice, words of wisdom: I mean, all I am is a musician! Not to them you're not: They're crazy about ya: [Sighs.]
Sometimes I think that's exactly what they are: What? Crazy: Look! They're the kind of fans we'd like to do without: Who? Those people in the black uniforms? It's strange, Buck: We've got a huge following among those gangs: But who they are and what they do is completely opposite from everything we believe in: Have you tried reaching them, talking to them? Yeah, we tried for a while, but then Lars said: : : That no one wanted to hear us sermonize, so we quit talking: You do everything Lars Mangros tells you? We owe him a lot, Buck: He made Andromeda into what it is: Without him That pendant you're wearing: I notice everyone in the group wears them: What are they for? Oh, good luck, I guess: Lars gave them to us just before our first concert: He said that if we never took them off, nothing could ever go wrong: And? And so far so good: Things couldn't be better: He's a wonderful person, Buck: He really is: Anything new from your end? No new reports of youth-related violence anywhere: Hmm: And no Andromeda concerts recently either: That's right: Colonel Deering has completed part of her research on Lars Mangros: What have you got, Wilma? Actually, very little: Lars Mangros is some sort of musical genius: He's generally credited for creating the Andromeda sound: The Andromeda sound: Good old rock and roll: Exactly: Before he got into music, he was a research engineer: Apparently he wrote some highly respected papers: : : Dealing in something called "particle movement theory:" - Ring any bells? - No, I'm afraid not, Wilma: I'm going to the control room later tonight: Maybe I'll find something there: That doesn't sound safe: I don't think there'll be any problems: It's been pretty quiet around here: Be careful: We still don't know what or who we're dealing with: So: : : Captain Rogers is not an entertainer after all: An actor, perhaps: : : But not an entertainer: Shall I send a squad to his room? No: We need something more subtle: You wanted me, Lars? Leave us: I wanted to apologize to you for last night: It seems I've been letting business interfere with our relationship: I was afraid you didn't find me attractive anymore: Joanna, you know I think you're the most beautiful woman in the galaxy: A toast: To our new togetherness: Darling, there is one thing I have to ask of you: Anything, Lars: You do love me, don't you? Yes, of course I do: - I want you to prove it: - How? Very simple: Tonight I want you to entertain Captain Rogers: Lars, I don't even know Captain Rogers: Trust me, Joanna: And do this for me, just this once: Please? [Sighs.]
All right: Let's hope this microchip I found in the office: : : Can tell us something: There's that word "veck'"again: Dr: Theopolis, what are we looking at? [Theo.]
This is the brain wave pattern of an adolescent human: - What are those high peaks? - Severe disturbance, externally caused: - By what? - I can't determine that: Physical shock: Perhaps stimulants: How long would it take you to analyze one of Andromeda's recordings? A few moments: Their music has been logged in the archives: Great: Let's do it: [Beeping.]
How are things going up there, Buck? We may have found some connection between the music and the riots: - We've come across some rather disturbing information down here: - What is it? I've been in touch with directorates on other planets: Each one of them has had problems with youth violence similar to ours: And without exception, each outbreak has followed a concert by Andromeda: I met the group: They seem all right: That may be: But can you imagine what it'll be like after that galactic transmission tomorrow night? But Doc, we're still not certain it's the music: We can't take a chance on that: The Earth Council has voted to block the broadcast: There's a jammer satellite in position already: If you block that broadcast, I can guarantee you you'll have riots all over the galaxy: Why? The kids'll take it as a move against them: They won't like it at all: Doc, have you ever heard the expression "veck"? Certainly: It's a contraction of the word "vector:" It's used in biology, principally, and it has to do with a microorganism which carries another: [Chirping.]
Piggyback: - Yeah, but what's it got to do with music? - I can't answer that: All right: Look, we've got a few hours left before the broadcast: Maybe I can try to fit these pieces together before then: I hope so: Good luck: Thanks, Doc: [Sighs.]
Well, Theo, what have you come up with? My analysis shows that the music could have: : : No adverse effect on anyone listening to it: That means we're right back where we started: Wilma mentioned something about Mangros working with particle movement theory: That might tie in somehow with this vectoring: Check it out, will ya? Certainly, Captain: Captain Rogers? - May I talk to you? - Sure: Uh, privately? It's very important: You guys mind leaving us alone? I'll only be a little while: [Chirping.]
Not if she can help it: See ya, babe: I think this will add something toJoanna's visit with Captain Rogers: What is this all about? You'll probably think I'm being silly: [Buck Over Intercom.]
Not if it's important to you: I just wanted to spend some time with you: Well, maybe later we could: I just couldn't keep away any longer: Well, uh, Joanna, that's all very nice, but No, Buck, you don't understand: Joanna, really! Really, I think you've got the wrong guy: - Don't you find me attractive? - Certainly! Then hold me: : : Just for a moment: Please? [Rock And Roll.]
[Continues.]
[Joanna.]
Oh, Buck:! Let go! [Stops.]
What am I doing? Captain Rogers! Nothing much: Just trying to kill me: I did? I don't know why! It was like I was on the outside watching: A lot of people seem to be having that problem these days: - You gotta get outta this place: - Leave Musicworld? Lars is here: He may be a very large part of the problem: Listen to me: Go straight to the hangar: I'll arrange for a shuttle to take you to Earth: What if Lars finds out? Look, if I put you on the shuttle myself, will you go? Okay: All right, come on: I'll meet you there in half an hour: [Chirping.]
Somebody rain on her parade? And almost on mine: Anything on Mangros? Quite a bit actually: He authored a highly classified monograph: : : On "The Effects of Ionized Wave Particles to Regulate Human Behavior:" May I quote? Yeah, go ahead: "It is essential that any ionized particle transmission be amplified: : : "By carrying it on a highly charged wave such as sound: In that event, the emotions of any human may be readily controlled: '" The piggyback method: Mangros is transmitting those ionized particles in Andromeda's music: Correct, Captain: I did find an ionized particle transmission in the music: That's why there can't be a concert tonight: Let's go see the group: - I don't believe it! - Neither do l: Look, Buck, I realize that you're trying to solve this problem: But you're missing something: Why doesn't the music affect us? I'll show you why: Rambeau, would you play back your last concert for me, please? [Rock And Roll.]
Well? None of us are tearing anybody's throat out: Take off your necklace: [Screaming.]
Rambeau, shut it off! : [Stops.]
I don't believe it: I tried to kill you: Your necklace acts as a filter: Imagine that happening to millions of kids all over the galaxy when Andromeda plays tonight: We've got to talk to Lars: There'll be no concert tonight: - I don't think that's a good idea: - What can he do? - If we go, he's got nothing: - That's right: Besides, he's been more than just a manager to us: We owe it to him to talk to him ourselves: That's the way it's gotta be: All right: I gotta putJoanna on the shuttle to Earth: I'll do that while you talk to Mangros: But I want you back in my quarters in an hour: You understand? We'll be there: Thank you: [Karana.]
You aren't going to deny this? Why should I? It's all true: [Laughing.]
Besides, my plans hardly require your approval: : : Or even your presence: I've got a vid-library of all your performances: Andromeda will appear tonight at 1900 hours, exactly as scheduled: And none of your mindless fans will know it's not a live transmission: Put them somewhere safe: I'll think of a suitable accident later: It's been almost two hours, Twiki: Mangros must have Andromeda somewhere: He's probably gonna try to force them to play: [Chirping.]
That's not music to my ears: It's not to mine, either: If we can find that ion transmitter and destroy it, Mangros can't do anything: - [Chirping.]
But where is it, Buck? - [Theo.]
I believe I can help, Captain: My sensors indicate at this moment it is in Mangros's office: This is an old military satellite: - Do you have the plans stored, Theo? - Yes: Is there some way to get to his office without being seen? The only possibility is through the waste disposal system: That's a way? The only way, Captain: But unfortunately the duct is too small to accommodate a man in certain areas: [Chirping.]
How about a little squirt like me? A little squirt? It's gotta work: We don't have any alternatives: [Chirping.]
So give me a boost, Buck: Come here: Twiki, Theo will show you the way: When you find that transmitter, destroy it: [Chirping.]
Gotcha, boss: I'm gonna try to locate Andromeda before Mangros takes some action we might all regret: Good luck: Going somewhere, Captain? Pity: We were just coming to visit you: - I was gonna run over my speech: - I'm sure you were: Put him with Andromeda: Why not just kill him now? Because we want to arrange a spectacular martyrs'death for everyone: : : After the concert transmission: Buck, what happened? I think I zigged when I should've zagged: [Twiki.]
I should've brought my stilts: [Theo.]
Keep going, Twiki: The next hatch should enter into Mangros's office: [Twiki.]
There it is: This is an unacceptable situation, Mangros: I demand to know where Captain Rogers is: We all do, Dr: Huer: After all, the concert is due to begin in minutes: That concert must not go on! I'm surprised at you, Doctor: Young people from all over the galaxy are waiting to hear Andromeda: Mangros, the Earth Directorate has placed a jammer satellite: : : In orbit around Musicworld: You give me no alternative but to utilize it: - Don't be foolish, Doctor: - I'm afraid you're the one that's being foolish: Tsk-tsk-tsk: How unfortunate, Doctor: Apparently some vandals must have booby-trapped your satellite: I assure you, I'll open an investigation: : : After the concert: Good night, Dr: Huer: Enjoy the concert: [Chirping.]
L I can't reach it: [Chirping.]
What's happening? - [Chirping.]
- [Theo.]
We will be blown into space: [Beeping.]
[Chirping.]
Uh-oh: I think I'm in trouble: [Chirping.]
[Twiki.]
Is this what they mean by "hanging out"? [Chirping.]
You didn't tell me we could get flushed: [Theo.]
It was not in my files: They must have modified the system: [Chirping.]
Let's get outta here! [Theo.]
No, the evacuation will be periodic: We have time to try again for the transmitter: It's like ten-point steel: Well, it's cronide: We've got to figure a way outta here: And hope that Twiki and Theo can get to that transmitter: Alert all security units: Full emergency status: [Rock And Roll.]
How many cycles per second do you think you can get out of this organ? There's no limit: What effect do you think that would have on cronide? First we'd have to disconnect the C: P: S: Governor Yeah, but then we can connect the speaker to it: Right! Let's get to it: [Chirping.]
The lug beat us to it: Hello: How is everybody? [Cheering, Shouting.]
We have the entire galaxy wired for audio response, and I can't hear you: One more time: How is everybody? [All.]
Fine! [Crowd Cheering.]
That's better: All right, here they are: : : In their first galaxywide broadcast, a performance you will never forget Andromeda! [Cheering Continues.]
Roll vid-version: [Crowd Chanting.]
Andromeda:! We want Andromeda:! [Rock And Roll.]
It's hopeless, Doctor: Their transmission is too powerful: We can't block it: - Ready here: - Got it? All set: Okay, guys, here: I think you better put these on: [High-pitched Beeping.]
[Beeping Continues.]
Let's get to the broadcast stage: - When I go onstage, turn the transmitter to full output: - Yes: Is there any other way backstage? Keep your fingers crossed: I'm gonna try to draw them off: [Chirping.]
These ducts are much larger, Buck, and lead directly backstage: [Continues.]
When we get to the Youth Center, I want your men to keep a very low profile: It's too dangerous: Those kids won't listen: We have to try: What's the report from the other planets? Same as everywhere else: Riots breaking out all over the galaxy: [Continues.]
All right: I'll take out Yarat and the transmitter: When the vid-version of Andromeda stops, I want you to take its place: You're gonna give the galaxy a real concert: [Twiki.]
And give Mangros a big surprise: We'll be there, Buck: Okay: Let's go, Twiki: [Continues.]
[High-pitched Beeping.]
All right, Twiki: [Chirps.]
Bombs away! [Beeping Stops.]
- [Stops.]
- [Chattering, Murmuring.]
Youth of the galaxy, listen to me: The time has come to demand your freedom, to create your own lives: I will show you how: Andromeda will show you the way: The time is now:! Go into the streets: Let nothing, let no one stop you! Destroy, so we can begin rebuilding a new galaxy, our galaxy! Who's that wacko? I don't know: Follow me, people! A Andromeda and Lars Mangros will show you the way! [Laughing.]
[Chattering, Laughing.]
[Chattering, Laughing Continue.]
[Laughing.]
Oh! Well: : : Let's do it: [Rock And Roll.]
Arrange for the Directorate to pick up Mangros: Yes, sir: Thank you, Buck: [Chirping.]
Long live rock and roll, Buck:! [Chuckles.]
All right!