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(Gooey Films Theme)
NARRATOR: Will everyone in the theater...
...hold on firmly to his seat, please?
(Strange heartbeat sound)
NARRATOR: Listen to this sound.
Take a moment to sit very still and study it.
(Mysterious music and strange heartbeat continues)
NARRATOR: Listen.
NARRATOR: Do you recognize this sound?
NARRATOR: Ask yourself...
...does it match the rhythm of your own heart?
No.
For the sound you are hearing is the sound of THREE hearts...
The hearts belonging to...
...The Mantopus.
(SCREAM!!!)
(Reber Clark's Main Theme plays)
(Thunder rumbles)
(Scream!)
(LOUDER scream!)
(Music builds)
(Thunder rumbles)
(LOUDEST SCREAM!)
(Frightening music)
(Megalomaniacal laughter)
Surely you don't begrudge a man for protecting his home from invaders!
My family has owned this land for the last 100 years!
But I do live here...
...and this castle is my property...
You have intruded upon the House of Frankenstein!
(CRASH!)
(Gasp)
(Creature groaning)
(Woman screaming)
(Creature groaning)
No! What are you doing?!
Stop! KILL HER!
(Creature groaning)
(Scream)
(Triumphant music)
Kill it.
(Music stops)
-Charles!
-Look.
I wanna congratulate you... that was a...
...heck of a picture.
You are most kind.
-You know, I was watching it and I was thinking...
...about those old musicals that they used to make like...
Remember "The Singing Cowboy" ?
Yeah, sure you do.
Great film.
The guy rides off into the desert.... He's singing a song...
There was no monsters, right...
No mutilation...
Just music...
Melody...
...and the desert.
Yeah!
THAT's the kind of movie you should make, Charles.
Not...
Frankenstein in Texas.
Right, Charles?
-Charles? Are you there? ...Right?
(Upbeat Reber Clark music)
Good morning, Mr. Landor...
Good morning, Tracey.
Um, it's Stacy!
You're quite sure?
Yes, thank you.
How did it go?
A complete disaster!
I've never been more humiliated in my life!
I'm sure you exaggerate.
Oh, no, Julia!
Not this time!
Sitting there watching a film I slaved over...
with Jon Danziger, the studio head himself...
The toadying ignoramus...
I COULD KILL HIM!
Seven films for him and his blasted studio
...and what do I have to show for it?
A small trophy!
A pat on the back and a recommendation to alter my ways
to fit the modern times.
He said that?
Haven't you heard, Julia?
The public is no longer interested in horror!
They want musical comedy!
Charles, I'm so sorry.
What am I to do?
The studio will never back another monster film...
I'm finished!
Well...
Perhaps a change will do you some good.
But I can't change who I am Julia...
What I enjoy.
How can I create something if I don't feel it in my heart...
...in my soul?!
What you need is a good rest.
And don't forget we have your premiere tonight.
Yes, of course.
Forgive me, Julia. I am sorry.
I've been under a terrific strain.
I had no right to lash out at you.
For better or for worse.
What?
When we were married, I told you I'd love you
for better or for worse and I meant it.
What would I do without you, my dear?
I ask myself the same question every day of my life.
(Upbeat music)
-No peeking!
-Keep your eyes closed, okay?
-Don't you peek, I swear!
...and open!
Oh, Rick! It's wonderful!
Thank you!
Anything for you, my love!
Now, make a wish!
So...
What did you wish for?
I can't tell you that...
It's bad luck!
Two and a half years with you & you still
make me feel like the luckiest man in the world.
And you make me feel like the luckiest girl in the world.
And now...
I got you a little something extra.
What is it?
-Open it!
You're not going to know unless you open it!
Oh, Rick: you didn't!
-I did!
Two tickets to the world premiere
to see FRANKENSTEIN IN TEXAS.
How did you manage to get these?
They must have cost a fortune!
I know a few people.
Do you think the cast and crew will be there?
I don't know about any of that...
...but I do know the director Charles Landor is going to be there.
He's giving the opening speech!
Thank you. I love them.
Anything for you, my sweet.
Just think of it, Cindy.
We're going to be up there one day.
Our names up in lights!
(Upbeat jazzy music)
NARRATOR: Good evening, friends!
Bob Kenton here coming to you live from sunny California!
The world premiere of Charles Landor's
FRANKENSTEIN IN TEXAS.
And there's "The Monster Man" himself
with his lovely wife Julia.
Oh yes, yes, yes!
The stars are truly shining bright tonight friends.
From where I'm standing, I'm positive this will surely be...
A night to remember!
(Jazzy piano playing)
How are you this evening, Aggie?
Charles!
I'm surprised you noticed me.
One sniff in this general direction was enough to alert me.
I hope our audience tonight is clever enough not to light a cigarette
in you direct vicinity.
Well, how else are we to survive one of your films, Charles...
...without a few drops of liquid courage?
Very amusing.
FRANKENSTEIN IN TEXAS!
Let me guess...
Another pornographic display of sex and violence?
-Why ask me?
I don't attend the cinema anymore...
I merely read about it in your weekly column.
More and more executives and studio heads are doing just the same.
Really it's quite intelligent of them.
Rumors my dear woman.... Merely rumors.
Are they rumors, Charles?
If you'll excuse me: I have a film to introduce.
(Drunken laughter)
Just one pull of the trigger, Chazz
...and I'm out one director!
You're drunk, my friend... and it's not even loaded.
No.
But one day it might be.
And what by chance would you do then?
Simple.
I'll have my wife...
...bail me out of jail.
Your, wife, eh?
(Regretful music begins)
-Good evening, Charles.
Good evening, Karen.
Hadn't you heard, Charles?
Karen and I are tying the knot.
Oh, but you'll be invited to the wedding, of course.
Thank you.
I give you my heartfelt congratulations, Karen.
I always knew you were destined for greatness...
...and even though we had our time what's done is done.
...and I'm sure the right man won in the end.
He did.
But I want you to know...
You'll always have a place in my heart.
Is that right?
How could I ever stop loving The Monster Man?
Monsters? HA! No more of that.
From now on only "A" projects, baby...
Musicals.... Westerns...
No more monsters.
No offense, Charles.
None taken.
Of course not.
Come, darling.
Excuse us if you will, Charles.
EMCEE: Ladies and gentlemen, put your hands together
for the man of the moment...
Charles Landor!
(Triumphant fanfare and applause)
Thank you all for coming here tonight.
It truly is a privilege to see you here in the flesh.
For those of you who have been here with me since the beginning...
REVOLT OF THE SQUID PEOPLE...
HERCULES AND THE MINOTAUR
PLANET OF THE CAVEGIRLS
and THE CRYPT OF DRACULA
I'm delighted to share with you, and those of you who are just now joining us
My latest opus.
FRANKENSTEIN IN TEXAS
I thank you for being here tonight...
May...
May you enjoy the film...
as much as we enjoyed making it.
Thank you.
(Triumphant fanfare and applause)
Congratulations, darling.
I think I'll go home, Julia.
Charles, the film's not even begun.
I must go.
(Horror film music)
(Reber Clark's score begins)
VOICE ECHO: "Frankenstein in Texas... let me guess...
"...another pornographic display of sex and violence?"
VOICE ECHO: "How can I create something if I don't feel it in my heart or soul?
VOICE ECHO: "THAT's the kind of movie you should make, Charles..."
"...not FRANKENSTEIN IN TEXAS..."
(Ominous music)
(Distant ambulance siren wailing)
-Hello?
-Hello??
(echoing Octaman sounds)
Good evening, monsieur.
Good evening.
-Ah!
A fine piece, monsieur!
They once belonged to Basil le Barbu.
Basil the Bearded.
Basil the Bearded?
He was the leader of the Spanish traveling circus for three decades, monsieur.
And these?
Once worn by the illustrious Celestre Durante...
Una psíquica...
A psychic.
My collection, you see...
...is all that remains of their humble careers.
Is that right?
Monsieur...
Is there something in particular that you are seeking?
My name is Charles Landor...
...have you ever heard of me?
No...
I cannot say that I have.
I'm in the picture business...
...and I'm in need of some...
...inspiration.
Ah...
inspiración.
Yes.
For a new film.
Your sign says The Impossible Made Real...
Was that a lie?
Perhaps I can show you...
My finest piece.
(Eerie music)
-I make my living attempting to frighten people with smoke and mirrors.
If you think I'll be happy with the head of a cat sewn onto the body of a fish...
...like the famous Fiji Mermaid...
...or a woman with rubber snakes for hair standing behind frosted glass...
I will be terribly disappointed.
Oh, no, monsieur...
Not this.
Very well. I'll play your game.
But I must warn you...
Death has always surrounded him.
I call him...
MANTOPUS!
(Strange growling)
-Come.
Awaken for a moment from your dark night...
(Angry growling)
He was once worshipped as a God...
...on a small island in the Pacific when I first found him.
This one possesses one brain...
...and three hearts.
Watch.
Listen.
Focus.
I am your master...
...and you must obey me.
Show me that you understand this.
(Tap on glass)
Now, sleep.
Sleep.
He can survive outside his tank for brief increments of time.
Perhaps long enough for your cameras to photograph him.
I can have him delivered to you first thing tomorrow morning.
Is this the inspiración you were seeking?
Oh, yes.
He can be yours for a mere 8,000 American dollars, monsieur.
Do we have a deal?
I will pay your price.
(Malevolent snickering)
(Traffic noises)
(Office sounds)
(Intercom buzzing)
-Mr. Danziger?
-Charles Landor on line one.
Ah, thanks Dolly.
-My pleasure, sir.
Charlie! Baby!
Hey, what'd I tell you?
That witch Aggie sure did a number on FRANKENSTEIN IN TEXAS, didn't she?
-Oh, what does she know?
An awful lot, Chuckie, an awful lot.
Anyway, how can I help you?
I suppose there's no reason to beat around the bush.
I'm retiring.
Charles! You're not serious!
I'm afraid I am.
I've given deep thought to our conversation last week and...
...though I'm hesitant to admit...
You were right.
I've worked here for far too long...
My wheels spinning along the same dusty and barren roads...
The world is evolving and unfortunately
I'm a dinosaur on the verge of extinction
The time has come for me to step down.
Well, I'm pleased to hear you're taking this so calmly
Your early work put our studio on the map
and for that we are forever grateful.
Grateful enough to grant me one final favor?
What do you have in mind?
One final film.
On my terms.
With our studio interference.
Go on.
I can have it to you in seven weeks
with a premiere on the eighth and once it is done
I shall be gone clean and clear.
I shall leave the studio once and for all.
Well, I don't see why not.
In fact I'll give you the green light right now.
I thank you, sir.
Uh, Chuckie, what's the name of this film anyway?
(Dramatic music)
(Vintage dance music)
Useless.
No good at all.
For Heaven's sake get rid of her.
That's quite enough you may go now.
Charles, if you're in need of an actress why not just phone Karen Hamilton?
NO.
Why not? She's been a loyal actress to you.
KAREN HAMILTON?!
Do you realize what she did to me on my last picture FRANKENSTEIN IN TEXAS?
She arrived on set every day two hours behind schedule...
...usually inebriated!
She hardly took the time to read the script, much less learn her lines...
It's a miracle the picture was completed at all!
NO, JULIA, NO!
-TRACI: Well, my jeez! Is anyone going to come see me?
-I've been waiting for an hour now!
-I just want to be a star!
-"Thou bloodless remnant of that royal blood..."
"Be it lawful that I invocate thy ghost to hear the...
...lamentions...
...of Poor Anne."
"Wife to thy Edward."
"Lo, in these windows that let forth thy life...
I pour the helpless balm of my poor eyes."
"Oh, cursed..."
Alright, that's enough!
I'm sorry. Memorizing lines isn't my strong suit.
That's perfectly alright, Miss Sanchez. Perfectly alright.
A pretty figure can help tremendously on screen.
Why, with the correct body language you needn't even employ the lines.
Aheeh.
But since we are on this subject...
Mmmhmm?
How do you feel about nudity?
Um...
Nudity?
-Yes, nudity.
Nothing exorbitant, of course, but as per the script...
There are a few sequences where you are required to wear something...
a tad more revealing.
Um...
Well, you see...
My boyfriend Ronnie may not approve of such outfits.
Thank you Miss Sanchez. We'll be in touch.
You mean I didn't get it?
I'm sorry.
You know something?!
You're a real creep, you know that?
A real perverted creep.
One moment Miss Sanchez.
The film pays $600 a day.
You will have your own trailer...
Your own makeup man and wardrobe assistant...
...and every afternoon a stills photographer will schedule you for a photoshoot
...for publicity purposes.
You will have various interviews with multiple magazines
...regarding your life and career...
Oh, and your name will be placed above the title of the film on the poster.
Now, what say you?
Well, I suppose I could talk to my boyfriend about those outfits...
aheeeh...
...Aheeeh...
No doubt.
We'll be in touch, Miss Sanchez.
Oh, thank you! Thank you!
Thank you.
Bye!
I GOT THE PART!
Slide any scene out of the realm of an actor's discomfort
...with a stroke of their ego or the illusion of high art...
...and you will find that they can be capable of ANYTHING.
Who's next?
(Phone ringing)
-Cindy Banks.
JULIA: May I help you?
RICK: Uh, yes, I'm her boyfriend.
I'm afraid I don't understand.
-She doesn't go anywhere without me. Sorry.
JULIA: I'm sorry but we're only auditioning actresses this morning.
RICK: And I completely understand that so I'll just go sit in the corner...
You will just go wait outside.
-One moment, Julia.
The young man may join his beloved if he wishes.
Hiya sir! I'm Rick and this is Cindy Banks.
A pleasure.
We are both huge fans of your films.
We've seen them hundreds of times.
Well, I'm afraid I'm not auditioning mutes this morning.
Sir?
Unless I am mistaken, it seems as though Cindy cannot speak for herself.
Oh, no, sir. Trust me. She can speak.
Then do you both a favor by sitting down and shutting up.
And what was your name, my dear?
Cindy. Cindy Banks.
A pleasure Miss Banks. And how pretty you look this morning.
Oh, why, thank you, Mr. Landor.
It's not often we find such beauty in a large afternoon casting call.
Oh, you're awfully too kind.
Please Miss Banks will you dance?
That won't be necessary, Julia.
Miss Banks, you have the part.
What?
I want you to star in my new film. Congratulations.
Oh, Mr. Landor!
I don't know what to say!
Say YES!
Yes! You won't regret this!
What about me, sir?
What about you?
Do you have anything for me?
We're not going to have any trouble with you, are we?
No sir!
Very well! Since you insist on following her everywhere...
I suppose we can find something for you to do on-set as well.
Yes, I think we can.
Go down with Julia to Payroll and fill out the proper paperwork.
Filming begins on Monday.
Oh, Mr. Landor. Thank you so much!
Well, you certainly seem to know what you're looking for, Charles.
One look at Miss Banks and I knew.
She deserves a long and interesting career.
I'm going to give it to her.
(Dark foreshadowing music)
(Ominous music)
(Mantopus heartbeat)
Listen to me.
That's right: look at me.
Follow this light.
It will help you to concentrate.
Remember every word that I say.
I am your master and you must obey me.
Tomorrow is the first day of shooting and your first test of obedience.
You will not fail me because you know I shall always take care of you.
Shield you and protect you.
Together we will create the most realistic monster movie ever made.
All other films will pale in comparison to ours because
...because no other film has a real life monster for a star.
No other film has you.
The Mantopus.
(Mantopus screeches)
(Upbeat jazzy music)
NARRATOR: Bob Kenton here again coming to you live
...from sunny California!
The sun is shining... the birds are singing...
...and a new Charles Landor film is about to start production.
(Studio bell ringing)
You will see scenes never before seen on a motion picture screen!
Eight times the terror!
Eight times the horror!
Mantopus! The monster movie to end all monster movies.
We're back!
(Studio bell ringing)
(Bray Studios-like sounds)
-I can't believe we are actually here!
Well, you're the one that's actually here.
Oh, I hope you're not getting jealous of me now.
Of you? Never.
-Are you decent, my dear?
Yes!
This is all terribly exciting!
Ah, don't get too excited! It's merely the first day.
We'll need you in the blue dress.
Yes, of course.
Now, come along Rick. Out we go.
What, why?
Well, she can't very well change with you staring at her, can she?
Yes, she can!
No, she can't. Come along. Let's leave her alone.
(Studio bell ringing)
Are we ready?
Hugo, are we ready?
Let's make it happen, Cap'n!
Marker.
Mantopus: Day One. Take One.
And...
Action!
Now...
You are the rich and pompous head of a Hollywood studio
...and you are watching footage from the films...
...currently being shot by your directors.
But, suddenly...
Your ears are overtaken by some
hideous, slimy, crawling, creeping sound.
that overwhelms your eardrums.
You turn and see a figure in the darkness.
What could it be?
What on Earth could it be?
Terror begins to envelop your heart and you realize it is a monster
unseen by the eyes of God and man alike.
A hellish relic from an ancient time... and ancient world!
You cannot look away for it is the face of a half-man
half-octopus creature!
THE FACE OF THE MANTOPUS!
(Intense music)
And cut, Hugo!
Magnificent!
Rosa, I think we need three 650s on level three for backlight, do you mind?
-Really, Charles!
I'm quite intrigued by your creative description.
However, that only goes so far.
For a truly cathartic reaction:
I should have the monster before me.
When do we get to see it?
My dear friend, that is simply a privilege reserved only for the select few.
(Mantopus heartbeat)
And now, Cindy Banks...
Allow me to introduce you to the Mantopus.
(Mysterious music)
(Weird Mantopus sounds)
Don't get too close, my dear.
There is danger in that tank.
Danger like you'll never realize.
THE WILD WESTERN WOMEN
I did some uncredited work on the script; the director owes me a favor.
I'd be delighted if you joined me.
Oh...
I'm not sure if I can.
What? Why not?
You see...
I'm not sure how Rick would feel about it.
Oh?
He means well, it's just...
He can be a little overprotective with me.
Rick wants to see you succeed as an actress, doesn't he?
Yes, but...
Then I don't see the problem!
Consider tonight as further rehearsal for the film.
We can discuss your character and motivations at dinner.
If it's for the film: Okay!
Yes, very well.
Shall I pick you up around 6:30?
Yes.
No! I don't like it!
Rick, it's just a premiere!
But why does it have to be you?
He has a wife, doesn't he?
This is strictly work related.
Is it, Cindy? Is it?!
Yes! He said so himself!
HA!
Rick, he can help with my career.
Don't you know that?
Oh, he'll help you alright.
You're acting like a complete fool.
Am I??
YES!
Rick...
I'm sorry.
Let's not part as enemies.
Oh, we're not enemies.
(Door slam)
(Crowd of reporters asking questions)
May I introduce my latest star discovery: Cindy Banks.
The star of MANTOPUS.
No, please.
She is the story, gentlemen.
Go on, my dear. You've got to learn sometime.
(Crowd of reporters asking questions)
(Jazzy piano music)
Ah.
Good to see you, sir.
Madam.
Well, if it isn't Miss Aggie Perkins.
Charles!
I really was sorry to see that you got permission to produce a new film.
Yes, quite the tragedy.
On another note I must confess
I quite enjoyed your write-up of FRANKENSTEIN IN TEXAS.
Did you?
I did indeed.
How did you put it?
"A film as tired as an elderly whore strutting about a back alley."
Well, I must have been delusional.
That was far too kind.
At least this film will be worth the price of admission.
If only you could be in it, isn't that so?
I beg your pardon?
No one wishes to become a critic, my dear.
I'd say you were once a bright and optimistic chorus girl...
Who couldn't take the sting of one more rejection from an audition table.
And so rather than become a secretary or a housewife...
You became a critic.
A position lower than the dust.
Unworthy to even lay eyes upon the hard work of a true filmmaker.
(Chuckling)
Oh, Charles.
A true filmmaker grows develops and adapts as he goes.
You? Haha! You are a madman, Charles...
...masquerading as a director.
Obsessed with nudity and violence.
If there's one thing I will be proud of
...it's that my readers will know that.
Perhaps...
...and yet long after we are both dead and buried...
your words will fade into oblivion while my films shall remain.
while my films shall remain.
Until then...
...the studio heads and execs will continue to read my column...
and refuse to fund your films.
I will still have a job...
...and therefore be able to pay my bills.
Wish I could say the same for you, Charles.
(Mean chuckles)
(Sinister music)
Follow this light.
It will help you to concentrate.
Remember every word that I say.
I am your master and you must obey me.
Do you understand?
The critic for The Hollywood Star: Miss Aggie Perkins.
She has done me wrong and must be punished.
You must punish her.
Do you understand me?
Punish her.
(Mantopus wailing)
(Night crickets)
(Calm symphonic music "Blue Danube" playing)
(Aggie humming)
CRASH!!!!
(Mantopus growling)
(Aggie screaming)
Who are you?! What do you want?!
(Aggie screaming)
(Mantopus growling)
(Aggie screaming)
(Traffic noises)
Pardon me, sir.
I'll call you back, huh?
Yeah, Sheppard, come on in.
You wished to see the autopsy report on that Perkins woman, sir?
Oh, yes, of course!
What's the verdict here?
There appears to be no motive, sir.
Nothing was stolen, at least.
And the coroner ruled it as a strangulation.
Oh my God.
Who would've wanted to do a thing like this, huh?
Who is not the question, sir...
I think we should be asking...
What killed her.
What did you say?
I don't wish to sound impertinent, sir, but...
But...
I'm almost afraid to say it.
You're going to think me mad for even considering it.
Just come out with it, Sheppard, and let me be the judge.
Well, it's just that...
You saw the strange mutilations on her body, sir...
They were almost like...
Like what?
Like suction cups.
It was as if she was strangled by...
A giant octopus.
Giant octopus?
I'm just telling you what I think.
So, what you think is that...
...a giant octopus is stalking the streets of Los Angeles...
...strangling innocent women in their homes at night.
Well, when you put it like that.
Don't be ridiculous, my boy.
Look, Sheppard...
You need to back off and calm down...
Have some fruit.
I suppose you're right.
Of course I am.
Look... take the night off.
Yes sir. If you say so.
Take that girl of yours out for a nice dinner tonight.
We're not talking right now, sir.
Well, then, stay at home alone...
...and play some music!
You deserve it.
(Classical symphonic music playing)
Charles, have you seen this?
It's incredible. Your friend Aggie Perkins found dead.
She was no friend of mine, Julia.
What do you mean?
She was a vulture who never failed to hide her delight
at tearing apart my films.
Well, you could at least show a bit more sympathy.
Sympathy for those creatures? They'll get none from me.
Wasn't that movie premiere last night... The one you wanted to see?
I suppose it was.
Well, I was too tired to attend anyhow.
Although, I'm sure you could've found someone to go with...
Perhaps that young actress...
Cindy Banks, I believe her name was?
Well, I just think it's interesting to see how quickly
she has risen through the ranks of your trust!
What are you insinuating?
I'm not insinuating anything I don't already know!
In just a few weeks she's gone from some random audition to your evening date!
WHAT THE DEVIL?!
Don't try to slip on a mask of innocence for me!
I called the box office last night to ask for tickets
but was told you were already in attendance with a lovely plus-one!
You stop this Julia! You stop this immediately!
YOU'LL JABBER AND NEEDLE ME UNTIL I CANT STAND IT!
It's the truth you can't stand!
But I suppose you deserve a nice little prize for picking
THE MOST ATTRACTIVE OF THE BUNCH!
I'M THE ONE WHO DESERVES A PRIZE
FOR EATING THIS SLOP YOU CALL FOOD!
(Casserole gets WRECKED)
WHAT OTHER SCHEMES HAVE YOU COOKED UP FOR THE FUTURE?
Special secret wardrobe fittings?
After-hours rehearsals to be completed at home?!
STOP SHOUTING YOU FOOL!
I was not shouting.
And besides even if I had whispered...
...the truth would've rung in your ears like an alarum bell!
STOP IT I SAID! ENOUGH! ENOUGH!
No, I will not stop!
I'm tired of living underneath your thumb
as if I were merely an afternoon plaything!
THEN LIVE UNDER MY HAND!
(SMACK!)
Julia...
Don't touch me!
Forgive me, Julia. I'm sorry, but you enraged me.
So quick with your hand and it's not the first time, either!
Can you ever forgive me, Julia?
Can you still love me?
(Sinister music)
-Marker.
Hello?
Oh, Johnny!
You'll never guess what I saw at the ocean today!
It was that big scary Octaman...
-No! No! No!
-Mantopus. The name is Mantopus.
Okay!
Now, try it again.
Okay!
-And action!
Ring, ring!
Hello?
-Oh, Johnny!
You'll never guess what I saw at the ocean today!
It was that big scary Mantopus coming to attack me!
I think I'm in danger.
Please come help me! Quick.
Cut!
Wonderful work.
Thank you!
Alright, everyone. We're going to move on to Scene 25...
Um, wouldn't you maybe want to do another take of this?
Maybe from a different angle?
What do you think is my best side?
-You're sitting on it.
Huh?
(Studio bell rings)
(Mantopus heartbeat)
(Office sounds)
-So, Karen and I missed you at the wedding.
Yes, I must apologize for my absence.
It was a good time. Open bar - what can I say?
Anyway, Charles. Listen.
I got some bad news.
There's no easy way to say this.
We're going to have to cancel your production.
The audience response cards came in for
the new musical we're working on...
...and it's a hit! And we're going to push four more
...cowboy musicals so...
...we have to shift your production money over to that.
I'm really sorry about this.
So that's it, then?
With one swipe of your hand
I'm out with the garbage after nearly one week of production.
Charles! I didn't call you in here for an argument.
WELL, YOU'RE GOING TO GET ONE!
Did you expect me to simply bow down to you and your mindless
...western musicals?
I'm on the verge of creating the greatest monster movie
ever made and all you can think about is casting
YOUR WIFE IN A COWBOY HAT!
Okay!
You wanna sling around insults, Charles?!
I'll oblige.
I never liked you or your creature feature films!
In fact, your best film was ten years ago
and even that one LICKED!
We shouldn't have given you money to do anything!
I want you off of this studio lot by tonight...
and if you refuse to go, I'll have you dragged out by force!
Goodbye, Mr. Landor!
(Door slams)
(Tense music)
(Intense music)
(Mantopus growls)
(Intense music)
(Song from a western musical playing)
(Projector running)
(Danziger laughing)
I love it.
(Danziger laughing)
(Mantopus growls)
(Intense music)
(Mantopus growls)
(Danziger screaming)
No! NO!
(Danziger screaming)
(Sad sigh)
As you may well know...
Our dear friend Mr. Jonathan Danziger was found dead last night.
Murdered by an unknown assailant in our very own screening room.
I can't even begin to imagine the emotions that are
that are swirling around this room right now
for our actors, our technicians
all of us.
But he lives on in our hearts!
Our very own singing cowboy
sitting astride a winged horse
galloping through the clouds of paradise.
May his song fill our souls forever.
(Mournful cowboy music)
(Studio bell rings)
(Mysterious music)
(Gasp)
(Gentle Mantopus noises)
(Mantopus heartbeat)
(Music rises)
(Mantopus heartbeat grows faster)
(Traffic noises)
-Please have a seat, Mr. Landor.
This is Chief Flanagan.
Ah, Chief Flanagan, a true pleasure.
We do hope this won't take up too much of your time.
Anything I can do to help, gentlemen, I am at your service.
Now, you do know that
Mr. Danziger was killed under mysterious circumstances...
I do.
Horrible. Absolutely horrible.
Very much under similar circumstances as that
newspaper critic: Agatha Perkins.
Oh, that.
Poor woman.
Who could've done such an awful thing?
The reporters around town have dubbed the killer
"The Suction Cup Strangler"
after the little circular marks he leaves on his victims.
Is that so?
We understand that you had a meeting with Danziger
the afternoon he was murdered?
-Indeed.
So, what did you talk about that day?
He asked how I was progressing with my film.
I am happy to say we are entirely on schedule
and I shall be dedicating the film to his memory.
It will be the final production that bears his stamp of approval.
And the both of you left on good terms?
Absolutely.
Were you under the impression that we had not?
Well, as a matter of fact...
No.
But in police work we must cover all of our bases.
Of course.
Do you know of anyone who might have held a grudge against Mr. Danziger?
None whatsoever.
But this is Hollywood, gentlemen.
Who knows what skeletons he could have had hidden in his closet?
Of course.
Well, if that's all you'll be needing me for, gentlemen.
You'll let us know if you have any leads?
Of course. I wish you the best of luck on your investigation, sir.
Thank you for coming in, Mr. Landor.
Of course. I hope you catch him... whoever he is.
And best of luck on your new film.
What did you say it was called again?
MANTOPUS.
Sir. Thank you.
What can I do for you, Miss Hamilton?
-You may refer to me as Mrs. Jonathan Danziger.
What can I do for you?
-I believe it's me who can do something for you.
What could you possibly do for me?
-I can allow you to continue production on your film.
My what?
-It would be a shame if MANTOPUS was cancelled...
What the devil are you talking about??
You see, Charles... since the death of my dear husband...
...as of now, the management of Danziger International falls to me.
Ridiculous! I refuse to sit here and listen to this conjecture!
Conjecture, Charles?
Yes... YOU LIE!
I wish I was, Charles. I wish I was.
In fact, as the sole producer of Danziger International...
I can cancel your production any time I wish.
What do you want?
It's very simple. I want you to cast me in a leading role.
I know your fans would love to see the return of
the reigning scream queen?
I'm sorry, my dear, we're already four weeks into the schedule.
It's impossible.
Oh, I'm sure The Monster Man can think something.
I want my script on my desk at 8 o'clock tomorrow morning
or else you can kiss your dream project goodbye.
Eight o'clock.
(Music)
(running engine of Ziggy the Bug)
(Music from radio playing)
(Sounds of shower)
Come here!
Up there.
(Squishy sounds)
(Sound of flying head)
(Creepy Mantopus sounds)
(Shower turns off)
(Quiet growling)
(SCREECH!)
(Karen screaming)
(Intense music)
What a loss.
And such a beautiful woman too.
The same mutilations, Commissioner.
The marks of sharp suction cups.
"The Suction Cup Strangler", eh?
First that movie critic...
...then her husband...and now her.
All of them with connections to Charles Landor.
Sheppard...
There's something here that just doesn't add up.
Can you get me into that premiere of his?
His what?
His new film. It opens next week.
You've got a hunch, haven't you?
I can't put my finger on it, sir, but...
Charles Landor is involved with these murders. I'm sure of it.
(Horror film music)
Good evening. I'm Charles Landor.
And I'm here today to promote my new film...
MANTOPUS.
It's the story of a misunderstood movie director
not unlike myself
who vows revenge on the actors and actresses
the studio executives and critics who have wronged him.
He unleashes a half-man half-octopus creature to kill them all.
A creature known simply as: The Mantopus.
NARRATOR: The Mantopus!
-The spawn of Satan, himself!
(Screaming)
-You will see: Cindy Banks!
-Charles Landor's latest star discovery.
-The Mantopus' most beautiful victim.
(Intense music)
NARRATOR: Mantopus!
-Eight times the terror!
-Eight times the horror!
-Coming to your theater this Friday.
Ah! I haven't eaten that well in years!
Ah, you have Julia to thank for that.
Take my advice, Rick. Marry a cook and you'll never know hunger.
I'll keep that in mind.
I will take that as a compliment.
Here's to MANTOPUS! One of the smoothest shoots I've ever been on.
Seven and a half weeks and everything went off without a hitch.
A film that'll not soon be forgotten.
Here, here!
I'd like to take this moment to apologize, Mr. Landor.
Apologize? What on Earth for?
Apologize to you and to Cindy and to all of you.
I have been a tad over-protective of Cindy...
and I may have said some things at your expense, sir, behind your back.
I was angry, I was jealous, and I'm sorry.
It takes a real man to admit when he's done wrong, Rick.
And to show you that I bear no ill will...
I would like to do something for you.
Sir?
Rick, I'd like to direct you in a screen test for the producers to see.
I truly believe you have what it takes to become a leading man.
You think so?
I do indeed!
A screen test directed by Charles Landor. How does that sound?
That sounds great!
Wonderful! Then it's settled.
Why not go up to the studio tonight?
Right now? -Yes, why not?
It's very late!
Cindy, this is Showbiz!
Come!
(Studio lights turning on)
Can we slate?
Oh, good Heavens.
Excellent.
Now, Rick, read over the speech I gave you
and when you're ready we shall begin.
Okay!
Yes.
(Studio light turning off)
-Mr. Landor?
-Hello?
-This isn't funny, boss.
(Door creaking)
CINDY: Rick? Hello, Rick?
-Hello?
CINDY: Why do you have to be an actor too?
-Cindy?
CINDY: Why can't you just be happy for me and my career...
my career... my career... my career...
LANDOR: Yes, Rick.
An actor spends their entire life waiting for the toboggan of fame
which may have already passed them.
I'm afraid that in your case
YOU ARE TOO LATE!
(Screaming)
Well done, Rick.
I honestly didn't think you had it in you.
(Projector running out)
(Triumphant music)
(Corks popping)
ANNOUNCER CONOR: For your own safety, please do not touch the glass
ladies and gentlemen. The Mantopus does not like
to be disturbed.
-I just can't believe it.
This was so unlike him. I had no one else to turn to.
That's completely understandable, my dear.
Completely understandable.
He left me this note this morning.
"Dear Cindy..."
"I decided to follow my dreams of becoming a musician without you..."
"I'm taking the first plane to New York City tonight..."
"Perhaps we will meet again under different circumstances..."
"Farewell, Rick..."
He told me he loved me.
That we'd be married!
I hope you don't mind my being frank, my dear, but that boy was trouble.
I sensed it from the moment I met him.
You did?
I'm surprised he stayed with you as long as he did!
If he wants to start a new life as a musician then good riddance!
He'll soon realize the world doesn't need
another bohemian hippie with a guitar writing songs about life and love.
I wager you can find half a dozen of them
in every street coffee shop in the country.
Now, come, come.
You're the leading lady in a brand new motion picture
that opens tonight. Doesn't that make you happy?
I'm sad that this will be your last.
My last for Danziger-International.
But I've decided to go independent
with you as my leading lady and new personal assistant.
What about Julia?
Never mind about Julia.
To me her usefulness has run its course.
I've been patient...
but alas my time with her has grown tiresome and stale.
I need a young, fresh mind like yours.
If you think I'm ready.
I do.
You're a delicious little thing.
I'm going to enjoy working with you.
-Ahem.
Now, hurry along and finish up, my dear.
I suppose you were never taught how to knock on a door before
entering a room.
Finished with me, have you?
I beg your pardon?
Never mind about Julia, eh?
Toss me away like a piece of rubbish, can you?
Out with the old - In with the new!
Keep quiet you fool!
Fool?
Fool I was to think there was a time in which I was your wife...
but I suppose your little WHORE can fulfill those duties as well!
You silly wench... DID YOU REALLY BELIEVE...
(SMACK!!!)
Seem familiar?
What was it you said?
Can you ever forgive me?
Can you still love me?
You have gone mad.
No.
I've just gone.
ANNOUNCER: Ladies and gentlemen...
Please put your hands together for The Monster Man, himself...
Yes! It's Charles Landor!
(Triumphant fanfare)
Ladies and gentlemen, let me be the first to welcome you
to the world premiere of MANTOPUS.
To those of you who helped make this production a reality
I give you my heartfelt thanks.
It truly has been a long time coming and I predict
history will consider this film my masterpiece.
Thank you.
GUS: Give 'em “what for”, Davy!
Thank you, sir.
MANAGER NICK: Hey, Stan! That's the signal. Roll the film!
(Projector starts)
(Reber Clark's music begins)
NARRATOR: Will everyone in the theater...
...hold on firmly to his seat, please?
(Strange heartbeat sound)
NARRATOR: Listen to this sound.
(Strange heartbeat sound)
Take a moment to sit very still and study it.
(Mysterious music and strange heartbeat continues)
NARRATOR: Listen.
NARRATOR: Do you recognize this sound?
NARRATOR: Ask yourself...
...does it match the rhythm of your own heart?
No.
For the sound you are hearing is the sound of THREE hearts...
The hearts belonging to...
...The Mantopus.
(Applause)
(Mantopus screeching)
(Intense music)
(Mantopus screeching)
(Cindy gasping for breath)
(Applause)
(Mantopus screeching)
(Bones breaking)
(Julia's spine snaps)
(Mantopus screeching)
I'm in the picture business and I'm in need of some inspiration.
Ah, inspiración!
-Yes, for a new film.
-Your sign says the impossible made real.
Was that a lie?
Perhaps I can show you my finest piece.
(Intense music)
-Very well. I'll play your game.
-But I must warn you...
-Death has always surrounded him.
I call him...
MANTOPUS!
(Screen ripping apart)
(Mantopus screeching)
(Audience screaming)
Look!
(Mantopus wailing)
No, no, wait! You'll hit Cindy!
(Mantopus screeching)
Put her down do you hear me?
Put her down do you understand me?
Put her down!!
(Mantopus screeching)
WELL, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?? SHOOT HIM DOWN!
I SAID SHOOT HIM DOWN! KILL HIM!
(Gunshot)
GIVE IT TO ME!
(Gunshot)
(Mantopus groaning)
(Squishy sounds)
(Mantopus growling)
(SCREECH!!!)
(Mantopus heartbeat ends)
(Calm music)
-Charles Landor...
Madman and murderer.
Now it becomes clear how he achieved his reign of terror...
He had this... Mantopus... under his influence.
able to kill anyone he saw fit.
But now...
The terror is over.
We can consider the case of The Suction Cup Strangler closed.
Closed. Forever.
(Thunder rumbling)
(Intense music)
(Strange heartbeat begins again)
(Music rises)
(Sounds of a crying baby)
(Loud thunder rumble)
(Music reaches fever pitch)
-Konga!
(Mantopus screeches)