THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL

Adapted by

John F. Barber

From the radio script by
Milton Geiger
for
The Lux Radio Theatre, 4 Jan. 1954

CC BY-NC-ND 4.0
(https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)
Creative Commons Attribution-Non-Commercial-NoDerivs 4.0 International

Re-Imagined Radio
Season 11, Episode 05

Final draft

THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL

Re-Imagined Radio
Season 11, Episode 05
Final Draft

Premiere broadcast: May 15, 2023

Adapted by
John F. Barber

From the radio script by
Milton Geiger
for
The Lux Radio Theatre, 4 Jan. 1954

Synopsis
A humanoid space alien and a giant robot arrive in Washington, DC, via flying saucer, and give humankind an ultimatum: live peacefully or be destroyed as a danger to other planets.

Original Story
Bates, Harry. "Farewell to the Master." Astounding Science Fiction, 1940.

Original Movie Adaptation
The Day the Earth Stood Still, Twentieth-Century Fox, 1951.
Starring Michael Rennie as Klaatu and Patricia Neal as Helen Benson.

Original Radio Adaptation
Lux Radio Theatre, 4 Jan. 1954.
Starred Michael Rennie as Klaatu and Jean Peters as Helen Benson.

Works Cited
Edelson, Edward. Visions of Tomorrow: Great Science Fiction from the Movies. New York: Doubleday, 1975.

Billips, Connie and Arthur Pierce. Lux Presents Hollywood: A Show-by-Show History of the Lux Radio Theatre and the Lux Video Theatre, 1934-1957. Jefferson, NC: McFarland,1995.

Color Code
SFX, sound effect(s), either pre-recorded or created for episode. Pre-recorded audio is used as content in this episode.

Magenta highlighted text with strike through was deleted for episode timing

MUSIC, pre-recorded

MUSIC, bespoke, created for this episode

COLD OPEN
SFX: SAMPLE FROM EPISODE
SFX: CROWD MURMURS ... OUT WITH--
KLAATU
(SLIGHT ECHO, A SPEECH) You people of Earth! You men of science. You are here from all over your world -- Europe, Asia -- representing many nations, many ideas. I am leaving soon. You will forgive me if I speak bluntly. The universe grows smaller every day. Where I come from, we believe there must be security for all -- or no one is secure. This does not mean giving up any freedom except the freedom to act irresponsibly. This is the message that I ask you to take back when you return to your native lands. Tell your people and your governments that we have created a race of robots whose function it is to patrol the planets in spaceships and preserve the peace. At the first sign of treachery, they will act automatically. Nothing you have here on Earth can stop them. The penalty for provoking their action is too terrible to risk.
SFX: CROWD MURMURS ... OUT WITH--
KLAATU
Your choice is simple. Live in peace or perish in violence. We shall be waiting for your answer. The decision rests with you.
MUSIC: RIR THEME, FADE UP UNDER PREVIOUS, ESTABLISH, THEN OUT
SFX: RECORDED ANNOUNCER INTRODUCTION
ANNOUNCER
Welcome to Re-Imagined Radio, a program about radio storytelling. I’m Jack Armstrong. With each episode we combine dialogue, sound effects, and music to engage your listening imagination. This episode is no different, and here to tell you about it is John Barber, producer and host.
HOST OPEN
HOST
Thank you Jack. Hello everyone. Welcome.
As Jack told you, Re-Imagined Radio is a       program about radio storytelling. This episode is based on the story "Farewell to the Master" by American science fiction writer and editor Harry Bates, and published in the October 1940 issue of Astounding Science Fiction.
That story was adapted by Edmund H. North into the 1951 movie The Day the Earth Stood Still, starring Micheal Rennie and Patricia Neal.
The movie story retained the flying saucer, alien in human form, and 8-foot-tall metal robot introduced by Bates. These were themes common to science fiction literature. To them North added Cold War paranoia about invasion (Edelson 1) and concerns about world destruction from nuclear war using "intercontinental missiles armed with hydrogen bombs" (Edelson 51).
The movie was serious science fiction and created an impression on public consciousness. So much so that just three years later, January 4, 1954, Lux Radio Theatre offered a radio adaptation by Milton Geiger, starring Michael Rennie and Jean Peters.
Re-Imagined Radio is pleased to share that radio adaptation, along with commentary in this episode.
Re-Imagined Radio is supported by KXRW-FM, community radio station for Vancouver, Washington. We thank them for their support.
And we thank YOU for joining us as Re-Imagined Radio presents "The Day the Earth Stood Still."
MUSIC: DRAMATIC TRANSITION
ACT 1, SCENE 1 -- ARRIVAL
MUSIC: INTRODUCTION ... CROSS FADE TO THEN BEHIND NARRATOR--
NARRATOR
It was a pleasant spring day -- an ideal day for a walk in the park, a day to push the baby buggy and be glad you were alive. There'd been at least twenty such sparkling days that spring and perhaps a billion or more of them since the Earth began, and nothing had ever happened to spoil them but a few small fires or a slight head cold in the evening, or a rain squall. This spring day, in the middle of the marvelous twentieth century, was different. It was the most different day that had happened to mankind since the first Christmas.
SFX: BEEP-BEEP OF RADAR ... CONTINUES IN BG
NARRATOR
The thing was noticed in Hong Kong first on the British radar.
1ST BRITISH
But that's impossible! That thing must be doing about four thousand.
2ND BRITISH
That can't be aircraft, sir. Must be a buzz bomb.
1ST BRITISH
Better give an alarm. Keep it steady, though. May be faulty equipment.
MUSIC: ACCENT ... THEN BEHIND NARRATOR--
NARRATOR
If the British radar in Hong Kong was faulty, so was the radar all over the Orient, and Asia, and Europe. So were the announcers on the radio.
MUSIC: ACCENT
RUSSIAN
This is Moscow!
MUSIC: ACCENT
INDIAN
This is Kalkipur, India.
MUSIC: TWO ACCENTS
3RD BRITISH
This is Radio Luxembourg!
MUSIC: BIG ACCENT ... THEN BEHIND NARRATOR--
NARRATOR
The American radar screen quickly confirmed the fact that there was nothing wrong with the British radar and that there was something very gravely wrong forty miles out in space, far above the earth.
AMERICAN
Luckton at Ferris to Baker, Ferris to Baker. I have an object at two zero zero thousand feet, four zero zero zero miles an hour.
SFX: ALIEN SPACECRAFT APPROACHING ... GROWING LOUDER DURING FOLLOWING--
NARRATOR
Then it was here. Incredibly, it was here! Burning down through the sky over Washington, D. C., hovering over the Mall. Descending.
VOICE
They're here! They've come! They're here, they're here!
SFX: ALIEN SPACECRAFT LANDS NOISILY AND GROWS SILENT ... BIRDS CHIRP QUIETLY
NARRATOR
Not a sound. Stillness. Not a move from the cordon of tanks and armored cars and troops in full battle dress. Not a sound or gesture from the monstrous domed disk resting on the grass.
SFX: TRANSITIONAL PAUSE
NEWSCASTER
The ship, designed for travel outside the earth's atmosphere, landed in Washington today at three forty-seven p.m. Eastern Standard Time. We still do not know where it came from. The ship is now resting exactly where it landed two hours ago. So far there is no sign of life from inside the ship. Behind the cordon of troops, tanks, and artillery is a huge crowd of curiosity seekers. Every eye, every weapon, is trained on the ship. The atmosphere is one of terrific tension rather than of fear. It's been that way for-- Just a minute, ladies and gentlemen! I think something's happening! The spaceship is opening up! Someone is coming out!
MUSIC: STIRRING, MAJESTIC ACCENT .. THEN OUT BEHIND--
SFX: CROWD REACTS WITH MURMURS AND GROWING UNEASE ... THEN IN BG
OFFICER
Keep calm, everybody! Don't get excited! Keep calm! Quiet!
SFX: CROWD GROWS SILENT BEHIND--
NARRATOR
A wedge is opened in the smooth unbroken metal skin of the spaceship. A ramp slithers out on the grass. Against an eerie glow of unearthly light from inside the spaceship stands the Spaceman. He is a man, entirely like ourselves. He wears a close-fitting suit like a deep-sea diver's armor, but of alien material. A spherical helmet entirely conceals his head. He holds up his hand. He is going to speak.
KLAATU
We have come to visit you in peace and with good will. Receive me as a friend.
SFX: CROWD MURMURS UNCERTAINLY
MUSIC: UNEASY, IN BG
OFFICER
(GUARDED) Here he comes, men. Watch it. Keep that BAR trained on him.
SOLDIER
(VERY NERVOUS) He - he's going for something in his tunic, sir.
OFFICER
Quiet.
SOLDIER
(PANICS) It's a ray gun or something! I'm gonna let him have it!
OFFICER
No! No! Wait!
SFX: GUNFIRE! ... CROWD REACTS, THEN MURMURS IN BG
OFFICER
You fool, he's down! Hold back that crowd! (TO ALL) Everybody -- back!
KLAATU
(HEAVY BREATHING)
OFFICER
Your wound doesn't look too bad. I'm sorry, but you shouldn't have gone for that ray gun.
KLAATU
(WEAKLY) It - it was not a weapon.
OFFICER
(ASTONISHED) He understands us.
KLAATU
It was a gift for your President. With it, you might have studied life on other planets.
SFX: CROWD REACTS IN HORROR
OFFICER
What's bothering the crowd, Lieutenant? Tell 'em to-- (QUIETLY STUNNED) Oh, no! Oh, no.
MUSIC: FOR A GIANT ROBOT ... OMINOUS ... THEN IN AGREEMENT WITH FOLLOWING--
NARRATOR
A nightmare stands on the ramp leading out of the spaceship. A mechanical giant -- monstrous -- all metal and menace -- with a visor in his helmet lifting slowly, revealing a dreadful light, boiling within that metal head. And suddenly out of that incandescence, a narrow ray.
SFX: BZZZZ! BZZZZ! AS RAY BEAM IS REPEATEDLY FIRED, DISINTEGRATING VARIOUS WEAPONS AS CROWD PANICS ... THEN OUT BEHIND--
NARRATOR
Rifles, tanks, artillery glow with that terrible incandescence and become vapor and a mush of  puddled steel. And in the deathly silence that follows, the robot strides down the ramp -- the Avenger -- from where?
MUSIC: DURING ABOVE ... EXTREMELY OMINOUS ... TO PAINT A PICTURE OF THE MENACING, ADVANCING ROBOT
KLAATU
(URGENT, TO ROBOT) Gort! Deglet ovrosco!
MUSIC: ABRUPTLY OUT
KLAATU
(TO OFFICER) He won't hurt you now.
OFFICER
Let's get you to a hospital.
MUSIC: UP, THEN FADES OUT
HOST
You're listening to Re-Imagined Radio. Our episode is "The Day the Earth Stood Still."
The first scene is loaded with science fiction themes, including a flying saucer, a humanoid alien, and a giant robot.
Alien life forms inside flying saucers have been imagined in many forms. But aliens that look like humans would be unsettling. How can we know they are aliens?
And the robot? Well mechanical beings have often represented the dark side of technology, and our fear that machines will replace humans. That fear persists today with regard to Artificial Intelligence.
So, with these story elements in place, let's continue listening to "The Day the Earth Stood Still."
ACT 1, SCENE 2 -- HOSPITAL
MUSIC: BRIDGE. CROSS FADE TO
SFX: CROSS FADE TO HOSPITAL SOUNDS, BEEPING INSTRUMENTS, BREATHING, HEART BEATS, ETC. FADE OUT UNDER THE FOLLOWING.
HARLEY
Good afternoon, sir.
KLAATU
Good afternoon.
HARLEY
The doctors here tell me your wound is not serious.
KLAATU
No. It amazes them that it's almost healed already.
HARLEY
I'm very glad.
KLAATU
It should serve as some sort of indication of our powers.
HARLEY
My name is Harley, secretary to the President. I've been told you speak our language fluently, that your name is Mr. Klaatu.
KLAATU
Just Klaatu.
HARLEY
The President has asked me to convey our deepest apologies for what has happened.
KLAATU
Sit down, Mr. Harley.
SFX: HARLEY SITS
HARLEY
I'm sure I don't have to point out that your arrival was something of a surprise. Er, had you been traveling long?
KLAATU
About five months. Your months.
HARLEY
You must have come a long way.
KLAATU
About two hundred and fifty million of your miles.
HARLEY
Er, naturally we're very curious to know where you come from.
KLAATU
From another planet. Let's just say that we're neighbors.
HARLEY
Huh. It's rather difficult for us to think of another planet as a neighbor.
KLAATU
I'm afraid in the present situation you'll have to learn to think that way.
HARLEY
The ... present situation?
KLAATU
I mean the reasons for my coming here.
HARLEY
Would you care to talk about it?
KLAATU
Not now, nor with you alone.
HARLEY
Perhaps you'd rather discuss it personally with the President.
KLAATU
I want to meet with the representatives from all the nations of the Earth.
HARLEY
I'm afraid that would be a little awkward.
KLAATU
Why?
HARLEY
In view of the tensions and suspicions in our world today, such a meeting would be impossible.
KLAATU
Mr. Harley, my mission here concerns the existence of every last creature who lives on Earth. It must not be complicated by the childish jealousies, intrigues, suspicions of your planet.
HARLEY
Our problems are very complex. You mustn't judge us too harshly.
KLAATU
I'm impatient with stupidity. My people have learned to live without it.
HARLEY
The President will, of course, do his best to bring about the meeting you desire. I know it will be quite useless. I wish it were otherwise.
SFX: SCRAPE OF CHAIR AS HARLEY RISES
HARLEY
I'm very sorry, Mr. Klaatu.
KLAATU
Wait. Before making any grave decisions, I think I should get out among your people and become familiar with the basis for these strange, unreasoning attitudes.
HARLEY
Our military people insist that you do not attempt to leave the hospital. The door will be locked. I'm sure you understand. Good day, Mr. Klaatu.
SFX: HARLEY'S FOOTSTEPS TO DOOR WHICH OPENS AND SHUTS AS HE EXITS ... DOOR IS THEN LOCKED
KLAATU
(AMUSED, TO HIMSELF) The door will be locked. (CHUCKLES) Will it now?
MUSIC: FOR TRANSITION
HOST
In addition to science fiction, Cold War distrust and paranoia are also part of our story. For more than 50 years, 1947-1991, former World War II allies, the United States, championing democracy and capitalism, and the Soviet Union, promoting authoritative control and communism, struggled against each other for global ideological and geopolitical dominance.
Klaatu comes from outer space. He possess technology superior to any known on Earth. His robot, Gort, seems invincible. He must be detained. But will a locked hospital door be sufficient? Let's continue listening to our story.
ACT 1, SCENE 3 -- KLAATU AT LARGE
MUSIC: BRIDGE ... THEN BEHIND NARRATOR
NARRATOR
Klaatu escaped. Nor could the embarrassing news of his disappearance long be suppressed. It was read about in the papers and described in excited tones over the radio.
RADIO COMMENTATOR
(FILTER) The authorities at Walter Reed Hospital still refuse to comment on how he managed to escape except to say that he broke into a hospital locker and stole clothing belonging to a staff doctor. While the government does not minimize the crisis, (CONTINUES UNDER NARRATOR BELOW) it urges people all over the world to remain calm, and further advises that the facilities of all federal agencies are being brought to bear.
NARRATOR
(OVERLAPS COMMENTATOR AND MRS. CROCKETT) This was the latest and the only news, and among the countless millions listening, were two women and a boy in an ordinary home on an ordinary street in Washington -- Mrs. Crockett's rooming house. There was Mrs. Crockett and Helen Benson and little Bobby Benson.
MRS. CROCKETT
(OVER THE COMMENTATOR) Calm, he says?! Just terrible.
RADIO COMMENTATOR
(CONTINUED FROM ABOVE, FILTER) --We are warned, however, that this is no ordinary manhunt and we may be up against powers that are beyond our control or understanding, and that we--
SFX: CLICK! AS RADIO IS SWITCHED OFF WITH--
MRS. CROCKETT
Oh, I just can't stand any more of this.
HELEN
Oh, I wanted to hear more, Mrs. Crockett.
BOBBY
It's exciting, isn't it, Mother?
HELEN
Hush, Bobby.
MRS. CROCKETT
Exciting?! It's enough to drive a person-- (STARTLED) Ohh! Who are you?
KLAATU
I'm sorry. I saw your sign outside and the door was open. My name is Carpenter.
MRS. CROCKETT
Yes?
KLAATU
I'm looking for a room.
MRS. CROCKETT
(RELIEVED, STAMMERS) Oh. Oh, yes, I do have a nice room.
BOBBY
Are you a G-man?
KLAATU
(AMUSED) No, I'm afraid I'm not.
BOBBY
I bet he is, Mom. I bet he's looking for that space man!
HELEN
(LIGHTLY) I think we've all been hearing too much about space men, Mr. Carpenter.
MRS. CROCKETT
This is Mrs. Benson, Mr. Carpenter.
HELEN
How do you do?
MRS. CROCKETT
And this is little Bobby, my youngest guest.
BOBBY
Hi.
MRS. CROCKETT
I'm Mrs. Crockett. You're a long way from home, aren't you, Mr. Carpenter?
KLAATU
How did you know?
MRS. CROCKETT
(PLEASED WITH HERSELF) Ho ho! I can tell a New England accent every time. ... (MOVING OFF) This way, please, Mr. Carpenter.
MUSIC: FOR TRANSITION
HOST
Since publication of British writer H.G. Wells' novel The War of the Worlds in 1898, visitors from space have been seen as invaders. 
An attitude of "shoot first" or "detain" is an easy attitude to adopt when confronted by some thing or some one who appears in any way different.
Let's continue listening to the Lux Radio Theatre adaptation of "The Day the Earth Stood Still."
ACT 2, SCENE 1 -- BREAKFAST
MUSIC: BRIDGE
SFX: BREAKFAST TABLE BACKGROUND ... RUSTLE OF NEWSPAPER
MRS. CROCKETT
(READS) --"and so, this Sunday morning,  we ask the question that has been plaguing the entire world for two days now -- 'Where is the creature and what is he up to?'"
HELEN
Eat your cereal, Bobby.
BOBBY
Aw, Mom, I'm almost full as it is.
KLAATU
(GENTLY CHIDES) Bobby.
BOBBY
Okay, Mr. Carpenter.
HELEN
I'm sorry, Mrs. Crockett. Please go on reading.
MRS. CROCKETT
(TO HERSELF, FINDS HER PLACE) Ummm, "creature and what is he up to?" (READS) Uh, "If he could build a space ship that can fly to Earth -- and a robot that can destroy our tanks and guns -- what other terrors can he unleash at will?"
BOBBY
What a man.
MRS. CROCKETT
(READS) "Obviously we must track down this monster and destroy him -- before he destroys us." (SOUND: RATTLES PAPER) Correct! Then why don't they do it?
HELEN
(THOUGHTFUL) This space man -- or whatever he is. We automatically assume he's a menace. Maybe he isn't after all.
MRS. CROCKETT
Well, then, where is he, Mrs. Benson? What's he up to?
HELEN
Maybe he's afraid.
MRS. CROCKETT
(HEAVY IRONY) Ah, he's afraid!
HELEN
Well, after all, he was shot the minute he landed here. I just was wondering what I'd do.
KLAATU
Perhaps before deciding upon a course of action, you'd want to know more about the people here.
MRS. CROCKETT
Nothing strange about Washington.
KLAATU
A person from another planet might disagree with you.
SFX: DOORBELL RINGS
MRS. CROCKETT
(STARTLED GASP) Oh!
HELEN
(REASSURING) It's all right, Mrs. Crockett. That's Mr. Stevens calling for me. I'll go to the door.
MRS. CROCKETT
(FADES AS HELEN GOES TO DOOR) That awful robot standing there like an ugly iron statue-- It gives me the shivers.
SFX: FRONT DOOR OPENS
HELEN
Morning, Tom.
TOM
Hello, Helen.
SFX: FRONT DOOR CLOSES
TOM
(LOW) Hey, can anybody see us?
HELEN
No. (GIGGLES AS HE KISSES HER)
TOM
(HUNGRILY) Mmmmm. So, all right, we're all set. I picked up some sandwiches and put gas in the car, and the radio is busted so we can forget about this space man for a day, huh?
HELEN
(APOLOGETIC) I haven't been able to arrange for anyone to stay with Bobby. Mrs. Crockett's going out and, uh, I don't suppose we could take him with us.
TOM
(UNHAPPY) Oh. Erm, we could.
HELEN
Just today. Mrs. Crockett has plans and I don't know who else to ask.
KLAATU
(APPROACHES) I haven't any plans.
HELEN
Oh, Mr. Carpenter!
KLAATU
I'd be glad to spend the day with Bobby, if you'd let me.
TOM
Great, thanks!
HELEN
Well, it's very nice of you to offer. Oh, I'm sorry, Mr. Carpenter, this is Tom Stevens.
TOM
Hi.
KLAATU
How do you do? Bobby and I had a fine time yesterday afternoon. I thought he might show me around the city today.
HELEN
Well--
KLAATU
Please, I'd enjoy it.
MUSIC: FOR TRANSITION
HOST
You're listening to Re-Imagined Radio. This episode examines "The Day the Earth Stood Still," the Lux Radio Theatre episode starring Micheal Rennie as the alien, Klaatu, and Jean Peters as Helen Benson. Let's continue listening.
ACT 2, SCENE 2 -- SIGHTSEEING
MUSIC: BRIDGE
SFX: FOR A SPRING DAY ... BIRDS TWITTER IN BACKGROUND
BOBBY
And this is where my father is buried. (READS) "Robert Benson, Virginia, First Lieutenant, Forty-Fifth Infantry. April tenth, Nineteen Sixteen - January twenty-ninth, Nineteen Forty-Four."
KLAATU
Your father was very young, wasn't he, Bobby?
BOBBY
He was killed at Anzio.
KLAATU
Did - did all these people here die in wars?
BOBBY
Oh, most of 'em. Didn't you ever hear of Arlington Cemetery?
KLAATU
I'm afraid not.
BOBBY
You don't seem to know much about anything, Mr. Carpenter.
KLAATU
I've been far away, Bobby.
BOBBY
Don't they have places like this where you've been?
KLAATU
Not like this one. You see, they - they don't have any wars. Let's walk.
BOBBY
All right.
KLAATU
What would you like to do now?
BOBBY
Go to the movies.
KLAATU
All right.
BOBBY
No foolin'?
KLAATU
No fooling. Uh, do you have to have money to go there?
BOBBY
Well, I've got two dollars. I'll treat you, okay?
KLAATU
No, I want to take you. Look, do you think they'd accept these?
BOBBY
Gee! What are they? Diamonds?
KLAATU
Well, in some places these are what people use for money. They're easy to carry and they don't wear out.
BOBBY
I'll bet they're worth a million dollars.
KLAATU
Would you give me your two dollars for two of these?
BOBBY
Sure, okay.
KLAATU
There you are.
BOBBY
Um, let's not say anything to Mom about this, huh?
KLAATU
Why not?
BOBBY
Well, she doesn't like me to take advantage of people. ... Hey, before we go to the movies, would you like to see the Abraham Lincoln Memorial?
KLAATU
Thank you, yes, I would.
MUSIC: WARMLY PATRIOTIC BRIDGE ... WITH A TOUCH OF "BATTLE HYMN OF THE REPUBLIC" ... THEN IN BG
BOBBY
Well, this is it. That's the Gettysburg speech up there.
KLAATU
(READS) "That this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom and that government of the people, by the people, and for the people, shall not perish from the earth." Those are great words.
BOBBY
That's some statue.
MUSIC: OUT BEHIND--
KLAATU
That's the kind of man I'd like to talk to. (BEAT) Bobby, who is the greatest man in America today?
BOBBY
Gee, I don't know. The space man, I guess.
KLAATU
(AMUSED) I was speaking of earth men.
BOBBY
Oh, I don't know. The President?
KLAATU
I mean the greatest philosopher -- the greatest thinker, scholar.
BOBBY
Oh. Well, that's Professor Barnhardt, I guess.
KLAATU
Yes? Professor Barnhardt?
BOBBY
He's the greatest scientist in the world. He lives right here in Washington. Right near where my mother works.
KLAATU
Where is that?
BOBBY
Department of Commerce. She's a secretary. Why?
KLAATU
I have an idea, Bobby. Let's go see Professor Barnhardt.
BOBBY
What for?
KLAATU
You just said he's the greatest man in America.
BOBBY
(AMUSED) You're kiddin', aren't you?
KLAATU
Wouldn't you like to meet him?
BOBBY
Well, sure I would. Aw, go on. I bet you'd be scared.
KLAATU
Maybe we can scare him more than he can scare us.
BOBBY
(WITH A CHUCKLE) I like you, Mr. Carpenter. You're a real screwball.
MUSIC: FOR TRANSITION
HOST
Mr. Carpenter, Klaatu, the space man, has studied the humans of Earth, has purposely landed his spacecraft in Washington, DC, a center of world power, and seeks to bring his message to leaders who can make decisions and inspire others.
Let's continue listening to "The Day the Earth Stood Still."
ACT 2, SCENE 3 -- OFFICE VISIT
MUSIC: BRIDGE
SFX: DOORBELL RINGS
BOBBY
(BEAT) Gee, maybe the professor isn't at home.
KLAATU
Let's take a look through that window.
SFX: KLAATU AND BOBBY'S FOOTSTEPS TO WINDOW
BOBBY
I'll bet this is where he works. Look in there. Books all over. Blackboard's full of stuff.
SFX: LOCKED DOOR RATTLES
BOBBY
(DISAPPOINTED) Aw, door's locked, too.
KLAATU
Is it?
SFX: DOOR OPENS
KLAATU
Why, no, it isn't, Bobby.
BOBBY
(MYSTIFIED) Well, that's funny.
KLAATU
We'll go in and wait for him. I'm sure he won't mind.
BOBBY
Gee, just think -- all the brains that goes on in here. What's all that stuff on the blackboard?
KLAATU
It's a problem in celestial mechanics. (CLICKS HIS TONGUE DISAPPROVINGLY)
BOBBY
What's the matter?
KLAATU
He'll never get the answer that way. Let's see.
BOBBY
(URGENT) Hey, it says, "Don't erase, don't touch"!
SFX: MARKS ON BLACKBOARD BEHIND--
KLAATU
This is right. (MARK) Check. (BEAT) Correct. (MARK) Correct. (MARK) And here's where he gets off the track. Well, we'll fix that. (SCRIBBLES) So-- So.
BOBBY
(IMPRESSED) You must be an arithmetic teacher, I bet.
KLAATU
(READS ALOUD AS HE SCRIBBLES) "Differentiate - the - equation." There.
SFX: KLAATU DROPS CHALK, WIPES HANDS
HILDA
(APPROACHES, INDIGNANT) Who are you?
BOBBY
Uh-oh.
HILDA
How dare you come in like this? How dare you write on that blackboard? Do you realize the professor's been working on that problem for weeks?
KLAATU
He'll solve it in no time now.
HILDA
What do you want?
KLAATU
We came to see Professor Barnhardt.
HILDA
Well, he's not here. And he won't be back until evening. I think you'd better leave.
KLAATU
Will you tell him that Mr. Carpenter was here? 1615 M Street, Northwest. I think he'll want to talk to me.
HILDA
Indeed?
KLAATU
Thank you. (SLIGHTLY OFF) Oh, it may have entered your mind to erase what I've written on the blackboard.
HILDA
It certainly has!
KLAATU
(SLIGHTLY OFF) I wouldn't do that. The Professor needs it very badly. Come on, Bobby.
SFX: DOOR SHUTS
HILDA
(REPEATS TO HERSELF) Carpenter! Sixteen Fifteen M Street, Northwest, Carpenter, M Street.
MUSIC: SNEAKS IN BEHIND--
SFX: PHONE RECEIVER UP ... OPERATOR DIALED
HILDA
Operator, give me the police!
MUSIC: TRANSITION
HOST
Scientists of all types were important to the Cold War Space Race between the United States and the Soviet Union. And for the many other technological competitions between the two world superpowers, including the creation and detection of atomic weapons.
ACT 2, SCENE 4 -- GOVERNMENT AGENT
MUSIC: INTRODUCTION ... THEN BEHIND NARRATOR--
NARRATOR
It is early evening of the same day. Tom Stevens and Helen Benson drive up to the boardinghouse after their picnic, quite unaware of the dark squad car parked at the curb a few feet ahead.
SFX: TOM'S CAR PULLS TO A STOP ... ENGINE OUT
TOM
(SLIGHTLY DEJECTED) Well, here we are.
HELEN
Thank you, Tom. It was a wonderful day.
TOM
You, um, still haven't answered my question.
HELEN
Oh, you know how I feel, Tom. But I still want time to think it over.
TOM
(LIGHTLY) If I could only tell the boss I was getting married and acquiring two dependents.
HELEN
(AMUSED) You're a good salesman.
TOM
A good salesman wouldn't give you time to think about it.
HELEN
(CHUCKLES) Good night.
SFX: CAR DOOR OPENS
TOM
Uh, didn't you forget something? (PAUSE AS THEY KISS) Mm. Now good night.
HELEN
(CHUCKLES) Good night.
SFX: CAR DOOR SHUTS ... HELEN'S FOOTSTEPS TO FRONT DOOR WHICH OPENS
TOM
(OFF) 'Night!
SFX: FRONT DOOR SHUTS
HELEN
(STARTLED) Oh, Mr. Carpenter!
BOBBY
Hi, Mom.
HELEN
Hello, darling.
KLAATU
Uh, Mrs. Benson -- this is Mr. Brady.
HELEN
How do you do?
BRADY
(STERN) How do you do?
BOBBY
Mr. Brady's a government agent.
HELEN
(SURPRISED) Oh? Did you have a nice day, Bobby?
BOBBY
We had a swell time. Didn't we, Mr. Carpenter?
KLAATU
Yes, we did.
BOBBY
We went to the movies -- and had a banana split -- and went to see Daddy.
HELEN
(MOVED AND GRATEFUL) Oh, I don't know how to thank you, Mr. Carpenter.
KLAATU
I enjoyed every minute of it.
BRADY
We better get going.
KLAATU
Yes. Good night, Bobby.
BOBBY
Good night.
KLAATU
I'll tell you the rest of that story tomorrow. Good night, Mrs. Benson.
HELEN
(PUZZLED) Good night.
SFX: FRONT DOOR OPENS
BRADY
Nice meeting you, Mrs. Benson.
HELEN
Thank you.
SFX: FRONT DOOR SHUTS
BOBBY
(BEAT) Why did Mr. Carpenter have to go with Mr. Brady?
HELEN
I don't know. (WITH A SHRUG) Maybe it was a mistake. (MOCK STERN) Upstairs with you.
BOBBY
Yeah. We sure had fun today. We went all over Washington and went to see Professor Barnhardt.
HELEN
(SURPRISED) Professor Barnhardt?
BOBBY
Oh, sure.
HELEN
(TO HERSELF) Barnhardt? (TO BOBBY) Up to bed now. Pronto!
MUSIC: RIR BREAK THEME
BREAK #1--THE FUSEBOX BREAK
HOST
You're listening to Re-Imagined Radio. This is John Barber, producer and host. We'll return to our episode in just a moment. But first I want to introduce The Fusebox Show . . . It's a different kind of radio storytelling, with its own alien life forms. Here's a sample . . .
SFX: THE FUSEBOX SHOW TEASER  
HOST
The Fusebox Show is available wherever you get your podcasts, or at The Fusebox Show website, thefuseboxshow dot com.
MUSIC: RIR THEME, RETURN. ESTABLSH, THEN FADE OUT UNDER THE FOLLOWING
ACT 3, SCENE 1 -- MEETING PROF BARNHARDT
HOST
You're listening to "The Day the Earth Stood Still," an episode of Re-Imagined Radio. Klaatu, the humanoid alien from a distant planet, is about to meet with Professor Barnhardt. What will they discuss? Let's listen . . .
MUSIC: BRIDGE
SFX: DOOR OPENS
BRADY
Is this the man you wanted to see, Professor Barnhardt?
BARNHARDT
Oh, thank you, Mr. Brady. If I may speak to Mr. Carpenter alone, please?
BRADY
I'll wait outside, Professor.
SFX: DOOR CLOSES
BARNHARDT
You are Mr. Carpenter--?
KLAATU
Yes, Professor.
BARNHARDT
--who wrote those equations on my blackboard?
KLAATU
My clumsy way of introducing myself.
BARNHARDT
Forgive the manner in which you were picked up. Hilda called the police before I saw your annotations on the board.
KLAATU
I appreciate the need for security, Professor.
BARNHARDT
I have not quite fathomed the problem, even with your remarkable assistance, Mr. Carpenter.
KLAATU
Let's look at it, sir. All you have to do now is substitute this expression at this point.
BARNHARDT
Yes. That will reproduce the first order term, but what about the effect of the other terms?
KLAATU
Negligible. With variation of parameters, this is the answer.
BARNHARDT
How can you be so sure? Have you tested this theory?
KLAATU
I find it works well enough to get me from one planet to another.
BARNHARDT
(BEAT, REALIZES, QUIETLY) Klaatu!
KLAATU
I spent two days at your Walter Reed Hospital. I was interviewed--
BARNHARDT
(DISMISSIVE) I need no proof. This blackboard is proof.
KLAATU
If you're not interested, or if you intend to turn me over to the Army, we needn't waste any more time.
BARNHARDT
(ARE YOU KIDDING?) Interested?! Will you excuse me one moment, please?
SFX: DOOR OPENS
BARNHARDT
Mr. Brady, you may go now. Please thank General Cutler and tell him-- Tell him that I know this gentleman.
SFX: DOOR CLOSES
BARNHARDT
So much for that, Klaatu. Now, please sit down.
KLAATU
You have faith, Professor.
BARNHARDT
Faith and, uh-- Uh, curiosity. Do sit down. I have several thousand questions to ask you.
KLAATU
I would like to explain my mission here.
BARNHARDT
That is my first question.
KLAATU
It was my hope to discuss this officially with all the nations of the world. I was not allowed the opportunity. Now, we know from scientific observation that your planet has discovered a rudimentary kind of atomic energy. We also know that you're experimenting with rockets.
BARNHARDT
Yes -- that is true. What exactly is the nature of your mission?
KLAATU
To warn you that your planet faces danger. What I have to say must be said to all concerned. I come to you as a last resort. Must I take drastic action in order to get a hearing?
BARNHARDT
(UNEASY) What sort of action do you mean?
KLAATU
Violent action? Perhaps leveling the island of Manhattan -- or toppling the Rock of Gibraltar into the sea? (BEAT) Well?
BARNHARDT
Would you, for example, be willing to meet with a group of scientists I am calling together? We're having our first meeting tonight. Perhaps you could explain your mission to them, and they in turn could present it to their various peoples.
KLAATU
That is what I came to see you about.
BARNHARDT
One thing, Klaatu. Suppose this group should reject your proposals. What is the alternative?
KLAATU
There is no alternative, Professor. In such a case, the planet Earth would have to be eliminated.
BARNHARDT
Such power exists?
KLAATU
I assure you, such power exists.
BARNHARDT
The scientists who are attending these meetings have come here from all over the world. This power you speak of-- They must be made to realize that it exists. Now, you mentioned a demonstration of force--
KLAATU
Yes.
BARNHARDT
Something that would affect the entire planet?
KLAATU
That can be arranged.
BARNHARDT
(NERVOUS, STAMMERS) Perhaps a little demonstration.
KLAATU
(CHUCKLES) Something dramatic -- but not destructive. (INTELLECTUALLY AMUSED) It's quite an interesting problem. Would tomorrow be all right?
BARNHARDT
If you say so.
KLAATU
Say about noon?
BARNHARDT
Then -- tomorrow at noon? Good.
MUSIC: FOREBODING TRANSITION
HOST
Encounters between aliens and humans is a well-established science fiction theme. If aliens come to Earth from outer space, assumably they have far greater technology, wisdom, and perhaps, advice. Klaatu mentions experiments with atomic energy and rockets. If humans continue, he says, Earth will have to be destroyed.
At the time of this radio program, missiles carrying atomic and hydrogen bombs, developed by the United States and the Soviet Union as part of the Cold War nuclear arms race, made it possible for humankind to destroy itself through misuse of power created by modern science. Klaatu's warning was true, and heartfelt. Humankind was not ready for the grim gift of the atomic age (Edelson 53).
This is Re-Imagined Radio. Our episode is "The Day the Earth Stood Still." Let's continue listening.
ACT 3, SCENE 2 -- JITTERY
MUSIC: BRIDGE
KLAATU
Going out tonight, Mrs. Benson?
HELEN
(STARTLED) Oh! Oh, it's you, Mr. Carpenter.
KLAATU
I'm afraid I startled you.
HELEN
Yes, I am going out. Mr. Stevens is calling for me.
KLAATU
Everyone seems so-- so--
HELEN
Jittery is the word.
KLAATU
(CHUCKLES) Bobby's the only person I know who isn't -- "jittery." He's a fine boy, Mrs. Benson.
HELEN
Naturally I think so.
KLAATU
Warm, friendly, intelligent. He's the only real friend I've made since I've been here.
HELEN
Mr. Carpenter -- this is none of my business, but -- why did that detective come here last night? That Mr. Brady?
KLAATU
(WITH EASY FRANKNESS) Bobby and I tried to see Professor Barnhardt in the afternoon, but he wasn't in. Apparently they thought I was looking for secrets of some kind.
SFX: DOORBELL RINGS
HELEN
Oh, that must be Tom now.
SFX: FRONT DOOR OPENS, OFF
MRS. CROCKETT
(OFF) Oh, Mr. Stevens. Do come in. Helen is in the sitting-room.
SFX: FRONT DOOR CLOSES, OFF
HELEN
(LOW AND DRY, TO KLAATU) Alert Mrs. Crockett -- she has a romantic mind.
TOM
(APPROACHES) Hello there, Helen. Not a minute to spare. You ready? (UNHAPPY TO SEE HIM) Hello, Carpenter. (IMPATIENT, TO HELEN) Picture starts at eight-fifty on the dot, Helen.
HELEN
I'll be ready in a minute. I was just talking to Mr. Carpenter.
TOM
(SARCASTIC) Oh, I hope Mr. Carpenter won't think I'm intruding.
KLAATU
(UNPERTURBED) Excuse me. I was just going up to my room. Good night.
HELEN
(EMBARRASSED) Good night, Mr. Carpenter.
KLAATU
(MOVING OFF) Have a good time, both of you.
HELEN
Thank you. (QUIETLY) Tom, that was awful.
TOM
(NOT SORRY) I'm sorry. I guess I'm just tired of hearing about "Mr. Carpenter, Mr. Carpenter."
HELEN
Ssh!
TOM
I don't like the way he's attached himself to you and Bobby. After all, what do you know about him?
HELEN
Very little, it's true. Well, let's not stand and talk about it any more. I'll go up and get my things.
MUSIC: BRIEF BRIDGE
BOBBY
Gee, Mr. Carpenter. Thanks a lot for helping me with my homework.
KLAATU
That's all there is to it, Bobby, my boy. All you have to remember is first find the common denominator, then subtract.
BOBBY
I gotcha. Thanks, Mr. Carpenter.
SFX: BEDROOM DOOR OPENS
HELEN
I'm leaving with Tom, Bobby. You'll go to bed on time now, won't you?
KLAATU
I'll say good night again, Mrs. Benson.
HELEN
(WANTS TO APOLOGIZE ABOUT TOM) Mr. Carpenter--?
KLAATU
Yes?
HELEN
(BUT IT'S TOO COMPLICATED) Nothing. Good night.
KLAATU
Good night. 'Night, Bobby.
SFX: BEDROOM DOOR CLOSES AS KLAATU EXITS
HELEN
Bobby -- I think it would be better if you didn't see quite so much of Mr. Carpenter.
BOBBY
Well, gee, why, Mom? He's swell. I like him. And he's awful good at arithmetic. He even helped Professor Barnhardt.
HELEN
I - I'm sure he's a very nice man. I just think he might prefer to be left alone. Now go to bed, darling.
BOBBY
Why would he want to be left alone?
HELEN
Don't forget to brush your teeth.
MUSIC: FOR TRANSITION
HOST
Tom Stevens is jealous of Klaatu. Thinks him an alien in the sense that he is intruding, perhaps threatening a relationship with Helen. This is exactly why Klaatu sought to go among the humans of Washington, DC. To understand the "unreasoning suspicions and attitudes" that lead to conflict and fighting among humans. Will he be able to convince humans to change their ways or face destruction? Let's continue listening to "The Day the Earth Stood Still."
ACT 3, SCENE 3 -- STRANGE ADVENTURE
MUSIC: BRIEF BRIDGE
SFX: KNOCK ON BEDROOM DOOR
BOBBY
Come in.
SFX: BEDROOM DOOR OPENS
KLAATU
Bobby, do you have a flashlight I might borrow for tonight?
BOBBY
Oh, sure, Mr. Carpenter.
SFX: DRAWER SLIDES OPEN
BOBBY
It's a real Boy Scout one.
KLAATU
Thank you, Bobby.
SFX: DRAWER SLIDES SHUT
BOBBY
Why do you want it?
KLAATU
The light in my room went out. See you tomorrow. Better get into bed now.
SFX: BEDROOM DOOR CLOSES
BOBBY
(BEAT, TO HIMSELF) Gee, I wonder if the batteries are any good. (CALLS) Mr. Carpenter?!
SFX: BOBBY STEPS TO BEDROOM DOOR WHICH OPENS
MUSIC: QUICK TRANSITION ... THEN IN BG, IN AGREEMENT WITH FOLLOWING--
NARRATOR
Bobby went to the door and opened it. What he saw down the hallway puzzled him. Mr. Carpenter's door was ajar and light was pouring out of his room.
BOBBY
(TO HIMSELF) Funny -- he said his light went out.
NARRATOR
(WITH MACABRE DELIGHT) Then Mr. Carpenter came out carrying the flashlight and stealing down the steps like a thief. This was peculiar. But this was adventure. Bobby followed Mr. Carpenter and what he saw couldn't have been a dream; it was too real. But it couldn't have been true, either; it was too deliciously frightful.
Dream or not, it was filled with darkness, stung by staccato flashes from a genuine Boy Scout flashlight -- flashes that activated a giant robot into knocking out his guards so that Mr. Carpenter from the boardinghouse could get into the shed the Army had built around the spaceship.
And dream or not, Bobby saw this Mr. Carpenter go in to the spaceship. And then a wave of sheer terror swept over Bobby at last and he turned and ran wildly away -- the way little boys always run in nightmares, trying so hard and moving so slowly, and all the time falling down. It was awful.
It was swell.
When his mother came home around midnight, Bobby was curled up on the sofa. Instantly, he jumped up and ran to her and to Tom Stevens as they came into the hallway.
MUSIC: OUT
BOBBY
(EXCITED) Mom! Mom! Listen!
HELEN
Bobby! What are you doing down here at this hour fully dressed?
BOBBY
Hello, Mr. Stevens. Mom, I had to tell ya!
HELEN
Tell me what?
TOM
What's the matter, Bobby?
BOBBY
(RAPIDLY) I followed Mr. Carpenter tonight -- right after you left -- and, gee, where do you think he went? Right into the spaceship!
HELEN
Now, Bobby, just one minute--
BOBBY
Honest, Mom, I saw him. They got a shed built around the spaceship so nobody can get to it. But Mr. Carpenter flashed a signal to that iron man up there and what do you think?!
HELEN
Bobby, have you've been dreaming again?
TOM
(CHUCKLES) Why, sure.
BOBBY
(DESPERATE) No, Mom, honest, I haven't. I promise you. I saw it!
TOM
Where did you see all of this?
BOBBY
Well, I'm telling ya. On the lawn, down at the mall. In that place where the soldiers are all out in front.
TOM
Oh? And where were the soldiers all this time?
BOBBY
Well, that robot fella grabbed 'em and knocked 'em out!
HELEN
(CHIDES) Oh, Bobby--
BOBBY
(RAPIDLY) Yeah, and then Mr. Carpenter walked into the shed and the spaceship opened up, and he walked right inside and it closed again. Gee, I like Mr. Carpenter, but -- I'm scared, Mom.
HELEN
Darling, it was just a bad dream. We'll prove it to you. Tom, will you see if Mr. Carpenter's still up? Ask him to come down here a minute.
MUSIC: BRIEF BRIDGE
TOM
Helen?
HELEN
Yes, Tom?
TOM
Helen, he's not there. But look what I found on the carpet.
HELEN
(BEAT) It can't be a diamond -- can it?
TOM
I don't know.
HELEN
It's much too big.
TOM
It looks real to me.
BOBBY
Aw, Mr. Carpenter's got lots of 'em. He gave a couple of 'em to me. Here.
HELEN
(AMAZED) He gave you these?
BOBBY
Well, not exactly. I gave him two dollars.
TOM
I don't know, but this whole thing-- It just doesn't make sense. Look, Helen, do you think it's all right for you to stay here?
HELEN
There's a strong lock on my door. And Bobby's going to sleep in my room tonight.
BOBBY
(RELUCTANT) Okay.
HELEN
Upstairs, nightmare boy.
BOBBY
(MOVING OFF) It wasn't a nightmare.
HELEN
Bobby?
BOBBY
(SLIGHTLY OFF) Yeah, Mom?
HELEN
Bobby, your shoes are soaking wet!
BOBBY
(SLIGHTLY OFF) Yeah -- grass on the mall was kind of wet. Good night, all!
HELEN
(BEAT, REALIZES) Oh, Tom! I wonder--
MUSIC: FOR TRANSITION
HOST
Helen is starting to realize that Billy's "nightmare" makes sense. Tom also has an idea where the story leads, but sees only benefit for himself.
This is Re-Imagined Radio. Our episode is "The Day the Earth Stood Still." Let's continue listening.
ACT 4, SCENE 1 -- A LITTLE DEMONSTRATION
MUSIC: BRIDGE
NARRATOR
Klaatu had promised what Professor Barnhardt termed "a little demonstration" -- promised it for the following day at noon. It is now two minutes to twelve. In the Department of Commerce building, Helen Benson has left her office on her way to lunch. She stands in the corridor waiting for an elevator.
SFX: BUZZ OF CROWD NEAR ELEVATORS, IN BG
KLAATU
(APPROACHES) Mrs. Benson?
HELEN
(SURPRISED) Mr. Carpenter -- what are you doing here?
KLAATU
I came to see you.
HELEN
Well, I was just going to lunch. What is it?
KLAATU
I saw Bobby this morning before he went to school.
HELEN
Yes--?
KLAATU
I want to know what he told you.
HELEN
(NERVOUS LAUGH) Oh, Bobby has such an active imagination.
KLAATU
Did you believe what he told you?
HELEN
Really, Mr. Carpenter -- this is where I work and I only have a short time for lunch today. If you'll excuse me--
KLAATU
I'll go down with you.
HELEN
(BEAT) If you like. The service elevator's open.
SFX: THEY WALK INTO ELEVATOR, THEN STOP
HELEN
(BEAT) You'll have to press the button, Mr. Carpenter.
KLAATU
Oh, yes. Yes.
SFX: ELEVATOR DOORS CLOSE ... ELEVATOR WHIRS
MUSIC: ACCENT ... THEN BEHIND NARRATOR--
NARRATOR
It was just five seconds before noon of that fateful day when Helen Benson and Mr. Carpenter stepped into that electric elevator. At that same moment, the enormous commerce of our briskly modern world roared and thundered in the streets.
SFX: TRAFFIC BACKGROUND
NARRATOR
Five seconds to noon.
Four seconds, three seconds, two seconds.
One.
Zero.
SFX: TRAFFIC SLOWS TO A HALT
MUSIC: AN EERIE, QUIET BACKGROUND BEHIND NARRATOR--
NARRATOR
High noon, and silence. All over the world, traffic stopped dead in a million streets. Here and there, a horse-drawn vehicle clopped its melancholy way among the motionless motors. Bicycles moved, before awe and the common desolation made the riders stop of their own free will. Electric clocks stopped on the dot of noon. All across the powered world, the machines stood still. Toasters failed to pop and battle fleets on maneuvers drifted aimlessly on their dead propellers. Joe Smith's milkshake didn't spin. And the humming turbines deep in Hoover Dam didn't produce current. Mrs. Housewife's washer stopped in the middle of its cycle. And electric lights went out all over the world. At a conference table in Washington, a hasty council of the armed services was held.
SFX: COUNCIL MURMURS .. THEN QUIETS BEHIND--
GEN. CUTLER
As far as we can tell, gentlemen, all electric power has been cut off, all over, with few exceptions. And even these exceptions are remarkable -- hospitals, planes in flight, that sort of thing. I wish I could be more specific, but all communications are out. I can tell you that we are preparing to declare a state of national emergency, but before we start discussing plans, I want a report from Colonel Ryder.
COL. RYDER
All I can report, General, is that the robot at the spaceship was discovered to have moved last night. It knocked unconscious the two soldiers guarding the entrance to the shed the Army Engineers had built around the spaceship, indicating that someone, presumably the space man, had wanted to get into the ship for one reason or another.
GEN. CUTLER
In all likelihood to signal for this demonstration of his planet's power. Go on, Colonel.
COL. RYDER
Well, that's all, sir.
SFX: COUNCIL MURMURS ("WELL, I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO MAKE OF THAT." ET CETERA) ... THEN QUIETS BEHIND--
GEN. CUTLER
Now, gentleman-- Until now we've agreed on the desirability of capturing this "man" alive. We can no longer afford to be soft in this matter. We will get him alive if possible, but we must get him! Is that clear, gentlemen? Dead or alive. Get him.
MUSIC: INTRODUCTION ... THEN BEHIND NARRATOR--
NARRATOR
All over the world, electric power has been neutralized on the stroke of noon -- as a token of the space man's power and as a warning to the Earth. While they've been trapped between floors in an elevator, the space man has told Helen his identity and purpose here.
KLAATU
(FADES IN) I've already told you more than I told Professor Barnhardt, because my life, in a sense, is in your hands. But if I die, a world -- your world -- may die, too.
HELEN
Yes, I - I understand.
KLAATU
I thought if you knew the facts you'd appreciate the importance of my not being caught before the meeting tonight with the world's scientists.
HELEN
Yes, of course. Of course I do. You hold great hope for this meeting, don't you?
KLAATU
I can see no other hope for your planet. If the meeting should fail, then I'm afraid there is no hope.
SFX: ELEVATOR WHIRS TO LIFE
HELEN
(STARTLED) Oh! The lights. And we've started again.
KLAATU
It must be twelve-thirty.
HELEN
(ASTONISHED) Yes -- exactly.
SFX: ELEVATOR STOPS ... DOORS SLIDE OPEN ... THEIR FOOTSTEPS
HELEN
Where are you going now?
KLAATU
Back to the boardinghouse. I'll be safe there for the afternoon. I'll be able to keep an eye on Bobby. He's the only other person who knows about me.
HELEN
No. Wait a minute. There is someone else.
KLAATU
How? There can't be.
HELEN
Tom. He was with me last night when Bobby told me what he saw.
KLAATU
(EXHALES UNHAPPILY)
HELEN
Well, of course, he doesn't know anything definite and-- Well, he'd talk to me first before-- But then we can't take a chance, can we?
KLAATU
Can you get in touch with him?
HELEN
I think so.
KLAATU
I mean, at once -- now.
HELEN
I'll try.
KLAATU
You will. You must.
MUSIC: NERVOUS BRIDGE ... THEN IN BG
HELEN
(FADES IN) Hello? Hello?!
SFX: RATTLES CRADLE
HELEN
(INTO PHONE, DESPERATE) Operator, I was connected with my party! Please-- Hello? Oh. Is this Mr. Tom Stevens' office again? We were disconn-- Well, I must speak to Mr. S-- No, Mr. Stevens. Yes, this is Mrs. Benson. Benson. ... Well, when do you expect him in, then? ... Well, will you tell him I called and please not to leave his office. I'm coming down to see him. ... Yes! Yes, it's very important! To you, too!
MUSIC: UP AND OUT
HOST
Helen Benson, and other Earth citizens see the importance of Klaatu's warning about continued conflict. Politicians and military leaders are more interested in conflict, and control. By the way, did you recognize the voice of General Cutler? That was William Conrad, to whose million dollar radio voice we have paid tribute previously. Let's listen to what happens next.
ACT 4, SCENE 2 -- KLAATU EXPOSED
SFX: OFFICE DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES AS TOM HURRIEDLY ENTERS ... LIFTS INTERCOM RECEIVER
TOM
(INTO INTERCOM, BREATHLESS) Margaret, this is Mr. Stevens; I just got in. Now, listen, call the Pentagon-- ... Who? ... Mrs. Benson? When? ... Yeah, well, never mind. This is more important. Listen. Now, call the Pentagon and find out who's in charge of this space man business. Whoever it is, I want to talk to him.
SFX: OFFICE DOOR OPENS ... HELEN ENTERS
HELEN
(URGENT) Tom!
TOM
(INTO INTERCOM) Call me back right away and don't take any other calls. Brush 'em off fast!
SFX: INTERCOM RECEIVER DOWN
HELEN
Tom, I've been trying to get you all afternoon.
TOM
I have got some pretty terrific news about your good friend, Mr. Carpenter.
HELEN
(BEAT)
What about him?
TOM
He's the man from the spaceship! I had that diamond, or whatever it is, checked at three different places. Nobody on earth's ever seen a stone like that! And after what Bobby's told us, that's enough for me! Why is it nobody knows about this Mr. Carpenter? Why hasn't he got any money?
HELEN
All right, Tom -- it's true.
TOM
(TAKEN ABACK) It--? How do you know?
HELEN
You've just got to promise me you won't say a word to anybody.
TOM
Oh, nobody but the Pentagon.
HELEN
Please, Tom--!
TOM
Are you crazy? After what happened today? He's a menace!
HELEN
You don't understand. You don't realize how important this is.
TOM
Important? Of course it's important. And we can do something about it.
HELEN
We mustn't do anything about it, Tom. Believe me, I know what I'm talking about.
TOM
I say he is dangerous. It is our duty to turn him in.
HELEN
He isn't dangerous! He isn't a menace! He - he told me what he came here for.
TOM
(CONDESCENDING) Oh, honey, don't be silly because you happen to like the guy. Do you realize what this'll mean for us? I'll be the biggest man in the country. I'll write my own ticket.
HELEN
(COLD) Is that what you're thinking about?
TOM
Listen, somebody's got to get rid of him.
SFX: BUZZ! OF INTERCOM
HELEN
Tom, I'm not gonna let you do it!
SFX: RECEIVER UP
HELEN
Tom, don't do it!
TOM
(INTO PHONE) Hello, Margaret? ... Yeah? General Cutler? Good. I'll hold on.
HELEN
You don't know what you're doing! It isn't just you and Mr. Carpenter.
TOM
(DERISIVE) Mister Carpenter.
HELEN
It's everybody! The rest of the world is involved!
TOM
I don't give a hang about the rest of the world! I'm in this for me.
HELEN
Tom--!
TOM
Now, you'll feel different when you see my picture in the papers. (CHUCKLES)
HELEN
(DEFLATED) I feel different right now.
TOM
Well, you'll see. You're gonna marry a hero.
HELEN
I'm not going to marry anybody. (MOVING OFF) Not even a hero.
SFX: OFFICE DOOR OPENS AS HELEN EXITS
TOM
(CALLS) Hey, Helen--
SFX: OFFICE DOOR SLAMS SHUT
HOST
This is Re-Imagined Radio. We're listening to "The Day the Earth Stood Still" and considering its Cold War connections. The Cold War began in 1947 as the United States and the Soviet Union began a struggle for global ideological and geopolitical influence. 
Led at the highest levels of government, the Cold War was concerned only with its desired outcomes, and not, as Tom stated, for anyone else. Let's continue listening.
ACT 4, SCENE 3 -- TROOPS DEPLOYED
TOM
(INTO PHONE) Uh, hello? ... General Cutler? Uh-- (PLEASED AND PROUD OF HIMSELF, ENUNCIATES POMPOUSLY) General, my name is Tom Stevens. With a "v." ... I - I have positive information about the space man and where he's staying. ... Right. Yeah. ... Yeah, of course I'm sure. He's living at a boardinghouse at Sixteen Fifteen M Street, Northwest. ... That is correct, General.
SFX: TOM FADES OUT AS GENERAL CUTLER FADES IN
GEN. CUTLER
Yes, I have all of it now, Mr. Stevens. And thank you very much, indeed. I'll want to talk to you further, but I haven't time now. We want to act on this.
SFX: SLAMS RECEIVER DOWN ... CLICK! OF INTERCOM
VOICE
(FILTER) Yes, sir?
GEN. CUTLER
Have Colonel Ryder deploy all Zone Five units according to Plan B immediately. Investigate One-six-one-five M Street, Northwest, for presence of space man. Repeat--
ACT 5, SCENE 1 -- TRAPPED
MUSIC: BRIDGE
SFX: HELEN'S FOOTSTEPS TO FRONT DOOR WHICH OPENS
HELEN
Mr. Carpenter?
KLAATU
(APPROACHES) Right here. Did you see Tom? What does he say?
HELEN
It's no good. It's too late. I've got a taxi outside. Hurry.
MUSIC: BRIEF BRIDGE
RADIO VOICE
(FILTER) Attention, Zone Five! Attention, Zone Five! Man and woman observed entering taxi at One-six-one-five M Street, Northwest. Man is probably Klaatu, alias Carpenter. Establish roadblocks according to Plan Baker and maintain station. Remain on radio alert until further orders. (FADE OUT)
SFX: FADE IN TAXI ENGINE ... CONTINUES IN BG
KLAATU
I don't know. I think we may have been seen getting into the taxi.
HELEN
Where can you go?
KLAATU
I'm sure Barnhardt can arrange to hide me until the meeting tonight.
HELEN
Where is it going to be?
KLAATU
At the ship. Now, look there -- Army cars.
HELEN
Full troops in full gear.
KLAATU
The alarm is out all right.
HELEN
It's only a few more blocks to Professor Barnhardt's.
KLAATU
I'm worried about Gort. I'm afraid of what he might do if anything should happen to me.
HELEN
Gort? But he's a robot.
KLAATU
He's a product of centuries of refinement.
HELEN
But what could he do without you?
KLAATU
There's no limit to what he could do. He could destroy the earth.
HELEN
And the city is swarming with patrol cars -- hunting you. How can we tell them?
KLAATU
They won't listen. You must listen! If anything happens to me, you must go to Gort. You must give him this message. "Klaatu barada nikto." "Gort, Klaatu barada nikto." Say it!
HELEN
(UNCERTAIN) "Gort, Klaatu barada--"
KLAATU
"--nikto"!
HELEN
"Gort, Klaatu barada nikto." (TO HERSELF) "Klaatu barada nikto."
KLAATU
Remember those words.
HELEN
(TO HERSELF) "Klaatu barada nikto."
MUSIC: TRANSITION ... THEN IN BG
RADIO VOICE
(FILTER) Attention, Zone Five! Taxicab moving north on Fourteenth street from Harvard Street, man and woman in back seat. License number H-oh-oh-one-two. H-oh-oh-one-two! Section Two, close in! This is your target vehicle!
MUSIC: UP AND OUT
SFX: TAXI ENGINE ... CONTINUES IN BG
KLAATU
We're hemmed in. (UP) Driver, we'll get out here.
SFX: RUSTLE OF PAPER MONEY ... TAXI PULLS TO A STOP BEHIND--
KLAATU
I'm gonna try to run for it. If they get me, you get to Gort! Now!
SFX: TAXI DOOR OPENS ... RUNNING FOOTSTEPS
ARMY
There he is! Stop or we'll shoot! Stop or we'll fire!
SFX: GUNFIRE!
HELEN
Mr. Carpenter!
SFX: CROWD GATHERS, REACTS, MURMURS
KLAATU
(DYING, TO HELEN) Gort! Run!
HELEN
(HORRIFIED EXCLAMATION)
SFX: HELEN'S FOOTSTEPS AWAY
ARMY
Never mind her! Check the guy.
SFX: CROWD MURMUR UP
HOST
Helen is now involved in events far larger than herself. This theme of ordinary citizens getting involved in world altering events is another science fiction, even popular culture theme. For example, recall the "Miracle on Ice" when the United States defeated the Russian hockey team to win the Gold Medal at the 1980 Winter Olympics, Lake Placid, New York, one of the biggest upsets in Olympic sports history.
ACT 5, SCENE 2 -- INSTRUCTIONS TO GORT
MUSIC: FOR A DESPERATE RUN ... IN BG
SFX: HELEN'S RUNNING FOOTSTEPS
HELEN
(BREATHING HARD, TO HERSELF) Klaatu barada nikto. Klaatu barada nikto. Klaatu--
MUSIC: TRANSITION ... THEN IN BG, IN AGREEMENT WITH FOLLOWING--
NARRATOR
Centuries, ages of superhuman, superplanetary skill had bred intuition and a dim power of reason into the enormously complex intelligence inside of Gort's metal brain case. When Helen Benson stumbled up to the shed that housed the space machine, the guards were not there. Then she saw them. They were lying inside, their rifles fused and bent. Gort somehow knew that Klaatu was dead. Gort was already on the move. He was on the move toward Helen.
HELEN
(TERRIFIED, SLOWLY) No! No! Gort, no!
MUSIC: FOR VISOR OPENING ... THEN IN BG
NARRATOR
The visor of his helmet was opening on that cosmic incandescence within, seething with world ruin, aiming impassively at Helen.
HELEN
(DESPERATE, SLOW, BREATHLESS) Gort! Gort! Klaatu-- Klaatu barada -- barada nikto.
MUSIC: UP, THEN DIES OUT
NARRATOR
Helen Benson fainted.
SFX: EERIE ELECTRONIC HUM ... CONTINUES IN BG
NARRATOR
When she returned to consciousness, she was lying on a dais bathed in a soft, shadowless light, in a chamber vaguely circular, of completely unfamiliar build.
SFX: ELECTRONIC HUM RISES IN PITCH AND WILDNESS, IN BG
NARRATOR
She was in the space machine. Across the room stood Gort, with his back to her, and lying in front of him on a platform was Klaatu.
HELEN
(QUIETLY SURPRISED) Mr. Carpenter ...
SFX: ELECTRONIC HUM HITS A PEAK BEHIND
NARRATOR
Gort the machine, the automaton, was applying electrodes to his master and a piercing, whining, maddening sound filled the ship.
SFX: ELECTRONIC HUM UP AND OUT
NARRATOR
(BEAT, IN AWE) Klaatu moved. He sat up. Stood up.
HELEN
(STUNNED) Mr. Carpenter!
KLAATU
(WEAKLY) Hello.
HELEN
I ... I thought you were ...
KLAATU
I was. They took me to an emergency hospital at the city jail. Gort broke in and took me back here. This technique can restore life, in some cases, only for a limited time.
HELEN
How long?
KLAATU
No one can tell. Time enough and more for me to go outside and speak to Professor Barnhardt's scientists. I must speak to them. It's what I came for. Gort will put out the ramp.
ACT 5, SCENE 3 -- WARNING / ULTIMATUM
MUSIC: BRIDGE
SFX: CROWD MURMURS ... OUT WITH ...
KLAATU
(SLIGHT ECHO, A SPEECH) You people of Earth! You men of science. You are here from all over your world ... Europe, Asia ... representing many nations, many ideas. I am leaving soon. You will forgive me if I speak bluntly. The universe grows smaller every day. Where I come from, we believe there must be security for all ... or no one is secure. This does not mean giving up any freedom except the freedom to act irresponsibly. This is the message that I ask you to take back when you return to your native lands. Tell your people and your governments that we have created a race of robots whose function it is to patrol the planets in spaceships and preserve the peace. At the first sign of treachery, they will act automatically. Nothing you have here on Earth can stop them. The penalty for provoking their action is too terrible to risk.
SFX: CROWD MURMURS ... OUT WITH ...
KLAATU
Your choice is simple. Live in peace or perish in violence. We shall be waiting for your answer. The decision rests with you. (BEAT, TO GORT) Gort ... berengo.
MUSIC: TAG ... FOR PUNCTUATION ... THEN OUT
KLAATU
(ECHO) Remember.
HELEN
I'll remember ... Mr. Carpenter.
SFX: OMINOUS RUMBLE AS SPACESHIP SLOWLY LIFTS OFF AND FLIES AWAY ... CROWD REACTS ... RUMBLE HITS A PEAK, THEN FADES OUT BEHIND
NARRATOR
And, as they had seen him come, so did they see him depart. And the people of the Earth pondered upon the warning.
MUSIC: CURTAIN
SFX: APPLAUSE
MUSIC: RIR BREAK THEME, OPEN. ESTABLISH, THEN FADE OUT UNDER THE FOLLOWING.
BREAK #2--THE RIR BREAK
HOST
This is John Barber, producer and host of Re-Imagined Radio. With each episode we combine voices, sound effects, and music to spark your imagination . . .
SFX: RE-IMAGINED RADIO TEASER
Visit our website for more information and listening opportunities. Or subscribe to our podcasts. That's reimaginedradio dot net
MUSIC: RIR THEME, RETURN. ESTABLISH, THEN DUCK UNDER THE FOLLOWING.
HOST CONCLUSION
HOST
This is Re-Imagined Radio. Our episode is "The Day the Earth Stood Still," performed by the Lux Radio Theatre, January 4, 1954. Michael Renne stars as Klaatu. Jean Peters voices the part of Helen Benson.
This radio story features powerful science fiction themes, along with fear of invasion and nuclear destruction fostered by the Cold War struggles between the United States and the Soviet Union.
And there is the idea that some "other worldly" event might be the only way to break through human intransigence. The alien, Klaatu, arrives on Earth with a message and ultimatum: live peacefully or be destroyed as a danger to other planets.
Today, in our world, we face a similar message and ultimatum: address climate change or face extinction. Yet we continue our unreasoning suspicions and attitudes, thinking only of ourselves. Is it time for aliens to arrive?
MUSIC: RIR THEME, UP, THEN DUCK UNDER THE FOLLOWING
HOST CREDIT ROLL
HOST
Re-Imagined Radio is produced with support from KXRW-FM. Vancouver, Washington's community radio station.
Content curation and script by John Barber.
Sound Design, music composition, and post-production by Marc Rose.
Graphic design by Holly Slocum Design.
Our announcer is Jack Armstrong.
This is John Barber, producer and host. Thank you so much for listening, and please, join us again for another episode of Re-Imagined Radio where we will continue our exploration of radio storytelling. Until then, all our episodes are available as podcasts. Download or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.
MUSIC: RIR THEME UP, THEN DUCK UNDER THE FOLLOWING
CLOSE
SFX: RECORDED ANNOUNCER CLOSING REMARKS
ANNOUNCER
This is a production of Re-Imagined Radio. Our radio broadcasts are heard on local, regional, and international community radio stations.
For on demand streaming, point your browsers to our website, reimaginedradio (all one word, no punctuation) DOT net. 
Thank you so much for listening, and please, join us again for another episode of Re-Imagined Radio as we continue our exploration of radio storytelling.
MUSIC: RIR THEME UP, AND TO END