"The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King"

Movie Transcript

Theatrical Edition

Transcribed from "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King".
Screenplay by Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens.
Based on "The Lord of The Rings" trilogy by J.R.R Tolkien.

Transcript Credits:
1SmallHobbit, alqua, At The Gates, BaD_BURN, Darmok Greenhame, Darwinius, dotdotdot, double-click, dream wanderer, ElanorSam, Elf-Friend Frodo, eowyn unquendor, Faid, feanari, finafyr, Isundir, Jumper, JustinsIce, Kristin, [M]ad[C]at, Misty, Nilmandra, Primula Baggins, qda, smeagolina, Tethra, WildFlameOfLorien, Xyla,

Special Thanks to:
Noora, Andi

Elvish dialogue from The Elvish Linguistic Fellowship.

(Names marked with a * are either uncertain or uncredited)

New Line Cinema Presents...

A Wingnut Films Production

<<TITLE: The LORD of THE RINGS>>

Scene 1 - The Finding of the Ring

<Close-up of a worm. Sméagol and his cousin Déagol sit in a rowing boat, on a beautiful and peaceful river. Suddenly Déagol catches a fish with his rod, he is excited.>

Déagol: Sméagol! I've got one! I've got a fish, Sméag!

<Both laugh and Sméagol watches happily as his cousin fights with the fishing rod.>

Déagol: Sméagol!

Sméagol: Pull it in. Go on. Go on. Go on. Pull it in!

<Instead of pulling the fish up, it pulls Déagol into the water, creating a big splash. Sméagol remains in the rocking boat and slowly gets up and sees his cousin's hat, floating in the water.>

Sméagol: Déagol?

<Under the surface of the lake, the big fish, caught in the hook, drags Déagol behind him. Déagol finally lets go of the pole. He opens his eyes in the water, something catches his attention: The One Ring, buried partly in the sandy bottom of the lake.>

<Déagol grasps it with his hand and finally returns to the surface. He pulls himself up out of the water. As he stands on the grassy riverbank, he slowly opens his fist, inspecting the Ring closer. In the background from the surrounding trees, comes the sound of the birds leaving. As Déagol examines the One Ring, Sméagol hurries over to his cousin>

Sméagol: Déagol! <laughing> Déagol!

<Sméagol comes to stand behind his cousin's back and the minute he sees the somewhat muddy Ring, he can't take his eyes from it. He stares at the Ring with greedy eyes.>

Sméagol: Give us that, Déagol, my love.

<Déagol closes his fist and turns around to face Sméagol>

Déagol: Why?

Sméagol: Because it's my birthday and I wants it.

<The smile on Sméagol's face fades away and he suddenly tries to snatch the Ring for himself. In the background, the high-pitched call of the Ring chants. Sméagol tries again, but Déagol keeps dodging. They circle around each other and Sméagol's attempts become more violent.>

<The call of the Ring resounds in the background and the two cousins are finally fighting for the One Ring.>

<Sméagol bites Déagol in his arm and throws him down on the ground. The Ring falls from his grip and now lies in the grass. Both are reaching for it, the call of the Ring starting to resemble the scream of the Nazgûl.>

<Déagol manages to get the Ring and stands up, then attacks Sméagol who lets out a scream of terror as he is being strangled. However, as the two struggle, Sméagol manages to wrap his hands around his cousins throat. Déagol struggles, but is overpowered.>

<In the background a loud beating/drumming sound mirrors Déagol's heartbeats. With a blank face, Sméagol throttles his cousin and as the drumming sound starts to slow down to a stop, the Ring whispers in the background.>

Ring: Ash nazg durbatulûk, ash nazg gimbatul
ash nazg thrakatulûk, agh burzum-ishi krimpatul.

<Déagol is dead. Sméagol lets go and immediately takes the Ring for himself, admiring it with bliss written on his face.>

Sméagol: My Precious . . .

<He puts it on and disappears.>

<The history of Sméagol's transformation into Gollum unfolds.>

<Sméagol, scrambling amid rocks, the look on his face agonized.>

Gollum <V.O.>: They cursed us . . . Murderer . . .

<Sméagol sits huddled in a dark place, biting his thumb, watching the Ring in his hand.>

Gollum <V.O.>: Murderer they called us. They cursed us and drove us away!

<Sméagol has already began to change into Gollum>

Sméagol: Gollum! Gollum! Gollum!

<Gollum/Sméagol kneels in the rain and he is suffering.>

Gollum <V.O.>: And we wept, Precious. We wept to be so alone.

<Gollum/Sméagol catches a fish and bites into it while it's still alive. His rotten teeth, sink into the slimy fish.>

Gollum <V.O.>: ... so cool, so nice for feet, and we only wish, to catch a fish, so juicy sweet ...

<As time passes Sméagol changes into Gollum. Finally he crawls into the tunnels of the Misty Mountains.>

Gollum <V.O.>: And we forgot the taste of bread, the sound of trees, the softness of the wind. We even forgot our own name.

<Gollum/Sméagol sits in the caves, the Ring in his hand, his eyes pale white. He closes his eyes, and when he opens them, he is now Gollum.>

<Gollum closes the Ring in his fist.>

Gollum <V.O.>: My Prrrreciousss . . .

Scene 2 - Journey to the Crossroads

<Sam, wrapped in his elven cloak, is sleeping. A few feet away sits Frodo, awake. His breathing gets louder as he brings his left hand up to fiddle with the ring-chain, his face twiching. Frodo glances in Sam's direction and takes out the Ring. He twiddles it with his fingers and watches it, breathing heavily. As Frodo hears Gollum approaching, he quickly hides the Ring. Gollum peeks into the stony alcove where the two hobbits have been resting.>

Gollum: Wake up! Wake up!

<Gollum shakes Sam awake.>

Gollum: Wake up, sleepies!

Gollum: We must go, yess . . . We must go at once.

<Sam sits up and looks at Frodo's blank face.>

Sam: Haven't you had any sleep, Mr. Frodo?

<Frodo merely shakes his head.>

Sam: I've gone an' had too much.

<Sam stands up and looks at the surroundings.>

Sam: Must be getting late.

Frodo: No, it isn't . . . it isn't midday yet . . . the days are growing darker.

<The earth shakes and rumbles as Orodruin belches out it's firey contents.>

Gollum: Come on! Must go! No time!

Sam: Not before Mr. Frodo's had something to eat.

Gollum: No time to lose, silly!

<Sam walks to Frodo, goes through his bag and hands Frodo a pack of lembas bread.>

Sam: Here.

Frodo: What about you?

Sam: Oh no, I'm not hungry . . . Leastways, not for lembas bread.

Frodo: Sam . . .

Sam: All right, we don't have that much left.

Sam: We have to be careful, or we're goin' to run out.

Sam: You go ahead and eat that, Mr. Frodo.

<Frodo takes a bite of the lembas bread.>

Sam: I've rationed it. There should be enough.

Frodo: For what?

Sam: The journey home.

<The hobbits look at each other, a trace of emotion plays across Frodo's face.>

<The hobbits continue their journey, Gollum leading them.>

Gollum: Come, Hobbitses! Very close now. Very close to Mordor.

Gollum: No safe places here. Hurry!

Scene 3 - The Road to Isengard

<<TITLE: The Return of the King>>

<With Gandalf's lead, Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli are riding through the Fangorn forest, towards Isengard.>

Pippin: I feel like I'm back at the Green Dragon after a hard day's work.

Merry: Only, you've never done a hard day's work. <both laugh>

<Merry and Pippin are sitting on the walls of Isengard, eating and smoking pipe weed. As they see Gandalf and the others emerge from the woods, Merry stands up and Pippin lifts his hand, holding a tankard.>

Merry: Oh!

Pippin: Ha! Ha ha ha!

<Merry stands in greeting.>

Merry: Welcome, my Lords, to Isengard!

Gimli: You, young rascals!

Gimli: A merry hunt you've lead us on, and now we find you feasting and . . . and smoking!

Pippin: We are sitting on the field of victory, enjoying a few well-earned comforts.

<Merry blows out a cloud of smoke in agreement.>

Pippin: The salted pork is particularly good.

Gimli: Salted pork?

Gandalf: Hobbits . . .

Merry: We're under orders! From Treebeard, who's taken over management of Isengard.

<Gandalf and the others are riding towards Orthanc in the flooded ruins of Isengard.>

Treebeard: Young master, Gandalf. I'm glad you've come. Wood and water, stock and stone I can master, but there's a wizard to manage here; locked in his tower.

Gandalf: And there, Saruman must remain under your guard, Treebeard.

Gimli: Well, let's just have his head and be done with it!

Gandalf: No! He has no power anymore.

Treebeard: The filth of Saruman is washing away. Trees will come back to live here.

<Pippin, sitting on a horse behind Aragorn, sees something in the water. He jumps down to get it.>

Treebeard: Young trees, wild trees.

Aragorn: Pippin!

<Pippin sinks his hands into the water and lifts up the Palantír of Saruman.>

Treebeard: Bless my bark!

Gandalf: Peregrin Took, I'll take that, my lad.

<Pippin, holding the Stone, looks at Gandalf, then at the Palantír again.>

Gandalf: Quickly now!

<Pippin hands the Stone to Gandalf who immediately wraps and hides it under his robes. Pippin watches after Gandalf and the Palantír as the wizard rides away from him.>

Scene 4 - Return to Edoras

<Gandalf and the others riding through the plains of Rohan towards Edoras and the Golden Hall of Meduseld. Éowyn, stands outside the Golden Hall watching their approach.>

<Later, inside the Golden Hall, Théoden-king stands before his men.>

Théoden: Tonight we remember those who gave their blood to defend this country.

<He holds out his goblet to honor the dead>

Théoden: Hail the victorious dead!

People of Rohan: Hail!

<The People of Rohan are celebrating in the Golden Hall. Éowyn, holding a cup, walks toward Aragorn. He comes to stand before her and Éowyn hands him the goblet.>

Éowyn: Westu, Aragorn, hál. (Be thou Aragorn well.)

<Aragorn takes the cup and drinks as Éowyn watches him with a radiant smile on her face. He gives it back and walks away. Théoden joins Éowyn and watches Aragorn leave.>

Théoden: I am happy for you. He is an honorable man.

Éowyn: You are both honorable men.

Théoden: It was not Théoden of Rohan who led our people to victory.

<Éowyn watches her uncle, the smile on her face gone.>

Théoden: Don't listen to me. You are young and tonight is for you.

<The smile returns to Éowyn's face. Farther away Merry and Pippin are singing about the Green Dragon and dancing on a table, tankards in their hands.>

Merry and Pippin:
Oh, you can search far and wide,
You can drink the whole town dry.

Merry: But you'll never find a beer so brown

Pippin: But you'll never find a beer so brown

Merry: As the one we drink in our home town.

Pippin: As the one we drink in our home town.

Merry and Pippin:
You can keep your fancy ales.
You can drink 'em by the flagon.
But the only brew for the brave and true . . .
Comes from the Green Dragon!

<Pippin and Merry tap tankards, and drink.>

Pippin: Thank you. I win!

<Gandalf is watching the little show of the hobbits, laughing and clapping with his hands. He is joined by Aragorn.>

Aragorn: No news of Frodo?

Gandalf: No word. Nothing.

Aragorn: We have time. Every day Frodo moves closer to Mordor.

Gandalf: Do we know that?

Aragorn: What does your heart tell you?

<Gandalf is silent and watches Aragorn, a little smile rising to his lips.>

Gandalf: That Frodo is alive.

Gandalf: Yes . . . Yes, he is alive.

Scene 5 - Gollum's Villiany

<Frodo, Sam, and Gollum are all asleep somewhere near Minas Morgul. Gollum is talking in his sleep.>

Gollum: Too risky . . . Too risky . . . Thieves! They stole It from us . . . kill them . . . kill them . . . kill them both!

<He wakes up with a scream.>

Gollum: Shhh! Quiet! Mustn't wake them!

Gollum: Mustn't ruin it now!

<Gollum crawls down from where he was sleeping and makes his way to a little pool of water.>

Sméagol: But they knows! They knows! They suspects us!

<The Sméagol side sits on the edge of the pool and the Gollum side looks back from the water.>

Gollum: What's it saying, my precious, my love? Is Sméagol losing his nerve?

Sméagol: No! Not! Never!

Sméagol: Sméagol hates nasty hobbitses! Sméagol wants to see them . . . dead!

Gollum: And we will. Sméagol did it once; he can do it again.

<A flashback of Sméagol strangling Déagol at the riverbank.>

Sméagol: It's ours!!! Ours!!!

Sméagol: We must get the Precious! We must get It back!

Gollum: Patience! Patience, my love.

Gollum: First we must lead them to her.

Sméagol: We lead them to the winding stair.

Gollum: Yes, the stairs . . . and then?

Sméagol: Up, up, up, up, up the stairs we go until we come to . . . the tunnel.

Gollum: And when they go in, there's no coming out.

Gollum: She's always hungry. She always needs to feed. She must eat. All she gets is filthy orcses.

Sméagol: And they doesn't taste very nice, does they, precious?

Gollum: No, not very nice at all, my love.

Gollum: She hungers for sweeter meats . . .

<Farther away Sam is waking up, slowly opening his eyes, hearing Gollum having the conversation with himself.>

Gollum: . . . hobbit meat. And when she throws away the bones and empty clothes, then we will find It!

Sméagol: And take It for meeeee!!!

Gollum: For ussss.

Sméagol: Yes, we meant, we meant for us.

Gollum: Gollum! Gollum!

Gollum: The Precious will be ours . . . once the hobbitses are dead.

<Gollum drops a stone into the pool and as the reflection in the water becomes still again, Gollum's eyes are met by Sam's. Sam hits Gollum in the head, sending him flying through the air.>

Sam: You treacherous little toad!

Gollum: Argh! No! No! Master!

<Frodo awakes from his sleep when he hears Gollum's screams. He hurries to help him.>

Frodo: No, Sam! Leave him alone!

<Frodo pulls Sam away from Gollum, who is moaning on the ground.>

Sam: I heard it from his own mouth; he means to murder us!!!

Gollum: Never! Sméagol wouldn't hurt a fly!

<Gollum presses his hand against his head and screams as he sees blood in it.>

Gollum: He's a horrid, fat hobbit who hates Sméagol and who makes up nasty lies!

Sam: You miserable little maggot! I'll stove your head in!

<Frodo is pulling at Sam's hand, holding him back as Gollum scuttles away from him.>

Frodo: Sam!

Sam: Call me a liar! You're a liar!

Gollum: Ahhh!!

<Gollum screams, hiding behind a gangling tree. Frodo makes Sam face him.>

Frodo: You scare him off, we're lost!

Sam: I don't care!

Sam: I can't do it, Mr. Frodo! I won't wait around for him to kill us!

Frodo: I'm not sending him away!

Sam: You don't see it, do you? He's a villain.

Frodo: We can't do this by ourselves, Sam. Not without a guide.

<Sam watches Frodo with a serious face.>

Frodo: I need you on my side.

Sam: I am on your side, Mr. Frodo.

Frodo: I know, Sam. I know.

Frodo: Trust me.

<Sam won't argue with Frodo and lowers his head.>

Frodo: Come, Sméagol.

<Gollum crawls past Sam, looking scared, and takes the hand Frodo is offering him. As he and Frodo start walking, Gollum looks back at Sam, the scared expression on his face suddenly replaced by a cruel and scheming smirk. Sam sees this and narrows his eyes.>

Scene 6 - The Palantir

<It is night and Aragorn is walking outside the Golden Hall, his pipe in his hands. He turns to look to his left and sees a dark figure, standing very still, a few feet away. Aragorn makes his way to Legolas, who is gazing into the direction of Mordor.>

Legolas: The stars are veiled.

<Aragorn comes to stand beside Legolas.>

Legolas: Something stirs in the East...A sleepless malice.

<They glance at each other.>

Legolas: The Eye of the enemy is moving.

<In the next scene we are inside the room where Gandalf and the hobbits are sleeping. Pippin wakes up. He stands up from his bed on the floor and sneaks towards Gandalf.>

Merry: What are you doing?

<Pippin turns, surprised, but doesn't give Merry an answer. As he stands beside Gandalf's bed, Pippin is startled, for the wizard sleeps with his eyes open.>

Merry: Pippin!

<Pippin takes a closer look at Gandalf and waves a hand in front of his eyes to make sure he is asleep.>

Merry: Pippin?

<Merry sits up in his bed, as Pippin is about to replace the Palantír in Gandalf's grip with a pot. The wizard mutters something in his sleep, causing the hobbit to draw back. Quickly Pippin snatches the Palantír, wrapped in a cloth, without disturbing Gandalf's sleep.>

Merry: Pippin! Are you mad?!

Pippin: I just want to look at it! Just one more time . . .

<Pippin unwraps the cloth and takes out the Stone, sweat glistening on his face.>

Merry: Put it back!

<With a satisfied smile on his face Pippin lowers his hands on the stone.>

Merry: Pippin . . .

<The smile on the hobbit's face soon fades as the Lidless Eye appears in the Palantír. Pippin is unable to take his hands off the Stone and starts to shake.>

Merry: No! . . . Pippin!

<Merry watches, scared, as his friend struggles with the glowing Palantír. Legolas and Aragorn are still outside the Golden Hall. Legolas turns to look at Aragorn, alarmed.>

Legolas: He is here!

Voice of Sauron: I see you . . .

Merry: Pippin!!!

<Pippin jumps up, holding the Palantír as if it were glued to his hands. In slow motion the hobbit struggles with the flaming Stone. Pippin falls on his back. Sauron's voice whispers in the background and Pippin cries out in agony.>

Voice of Sauron: Ash nazg thrakatulûk . . .

Merry: Help!!! Gandalf!

<Finally Gandalf stirs from his sleep and jumps up from his bed. Aragorn and Legolas storm into the room as well.>

Merry: Help him! Someone help him!

<Aragorn snatches the Palantír from Pippin's hands but falls on his knees, taken over by its power. Legolas tries to help his friend and holds him still.>

<The Stone drops from Aragorn's hands and rolls across the floor still blazing. Gandalf grabs a cloth and tosses it over the Palantír.>

Merry: Pippin!

<Merry drops down by his friends side.>

<Gandalf turns quickly around.>

Gandalf: Fool of a Took!

<Gandalf is startled to see Pippin lying on the floor; his eyes open, staring into void. He rushes to the hobbit, pushing Merry aside.>

<The wizard takes Pippin's hand into his own and presses his other hand on the hobbit's forehead. He whispers quietly and strokes Pippin's cheek. Aragorn, Legolas, and Merry watch with concern. Finally Pippin responds, his eyes drift open.>

Gandalf: Look at me.

<Pippin focuses on Gandalf.>

Pippin: Gandalf! Forgive me!

<Pippin trys to close his eyes again, but Gandalf won't let him.>

Gandalf: Look at me.

Gandalf: What did you see?

<Pippin is distraught, but manages to speak.>

Pippin: A tree . . . There was a white tree . . . in a courtyard of stone . . . It was dead.

<A flash of the White Tree of Minas Tirith, burning.>

Pippin: The city was burning.

Gandalf: Minas Tirith?

Gandalf: Is that what you saw?

<Pippin swallows, fear creasing his brow.>

Pippin: I saw . . . I saw Him!

Pippin: I could hear His voice in my head!

<Gandalf reacts with alarm.>

Gandalf: And what did you tell Him? Speak!

Pippin: . . . He asked me my name; I didn't answer.

Pippin: He hurt me!

Gandalf: What did you tell Him about Frodo and the Ring?!

<Pippin stares fearfully back at Gandalf.>

<The next day Gandalf is having a conversation with Théoden about the night's events. Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli are also present.>

Gandalf: There was no lie in Pippin's eyes.

Gandalf: A fool . . . but an honest fool he remains.

<Farther away sits Pippin with Merry, looking remorseful.>

Gandalf: He told Sauron nothing of Frodo and the Ring.

Gandalf: We've been strangely fortunate. Pippin saw in the Palantír a glimpse of the enemy's plan.

Gandalf: Sauron moves to strike the city of Minas Tirith. His defeat at Helm's Deep showed our enemy one thing: He knows the heir of Elendil has come forth.

Gandalf: Men are not as weak as He supposed; there is courage still. Strength enough perhaps to challenge Him. Sauron fears this.

<All the others are silent and listen as Gandalf continues.>

Gandalf: He will not risk the peoples of Middle-Earth uniting under one banner.

Gandalf: He will raze Minas Tirith to the ground before he sees a King return to the throne of Men.

Gandalf: If the Beacons of Gondor are lit, Rohan must be ready for war.

Théoden: Tell me ... why should we ride to the aid of those who did not come to ours?

<All are silent. Aragorn turns to look at Théoden.>

Théoden: What do we owe Gondor?

Aragorn: I will go.

Gandalf: No!

Aragorn: They must be warned!

Gandalf: They will be.

<Gandalf walks to where Aragorn is standing with Legolas and Gimli by his side.>

Gandalf: You must come to Minas Tirith by another road. Follow the river and look to the Black ships.

<Aragorn meets Gandalf's eyes before the wizard turns to face the others.>

Gandalf: Understand this: things are now in motion that cannot be undone. I ride for Minas Tirith . . .

<He turns to look at Pippin.>

Gandalf: And I won't be going alone.

<Outside. Gandalf, followed by the two hobbits is making his way to the stables of Edoras.>

Gandalf: Of all the inquisitive hobbits, Peregrin Took, you are the worst! Hurry! Hurry!

<Merry follows Gandalf and Pippin trots behind him, trying to catch up with his friend, not fully understanding what is going on.>

Pippin: Where are we going?

Merry: Why did you look? Why do you always have to look!

Pippin: I don't know . . . I can't help it!

Merry: You never can . . .

Pippin: I'm sorry, all right?

<Merry stops and confronts Pippin, a serious look on his face.>

Pippin: I won't do it again.

<Merry walks back to Pippin, realizing the younger hobbit is totally unaware of things.>

Merry: Don't you understand? The enemy thinks you have the Ring!

<Pippin stares at Merry, a frown on his face.>

Merry: He's going to be looking for you, Pip. They have to get you out of here.

Pippin: And y-you're coming with me?

<Merry doesn't answer, he turns and walks away.>

Pippin: Merry?

Merry: Come on!

<Inside the stables, Gandalf lifts Pippin up to sit on Shadowfax's back.>

Pippin: How far is Minas Tirith?

Gandalf: Three day's ride as the Nazgûl flies.

<Pippin purses his nose at the long journey looking worried.>

Gandalf: And you better hope we don't have one of those on our tail . . .

<Merry comes forth and hands Pippin a pack.>

Merry: Here . . . Something for the road.

Pippin: Last of the Longbottom Leaf.

Merry: I know you've run out.

Merry: You smoke too much, Pip.

Pippin: B-but we'll see each other soon . . .

<Merry glances at Gandalf, knowing how serious things actually are.>

Pippin: Won't we?

Merry: I don't know.

<Pippin stares at Merry, confused, as Gandalf gets up to sit behind him. Merry takes a few steps back, his voice weakened by the lump in his throat.>

Merry: I don't know what's going to happen . . .

Pippin: Merry!

Gandalf: Run, Shadowfax. Show us the meaning of haste.

Pippin: Merry!!!

<Shadowfax gallops out of the stables and Merry runs after them. He climbs up the steps of a watchtower, Aragorn running after him.>

Aragorn: Merry!

<Aragorn places a comforting hand on Merry's shoulder as the two watch Gandalf and Pippin ride away.>

Scene 7 - Arwen's Vision

<A beautiful and tranquil forest where the Elves are on their way to the Grey Havens. The only sound in the background is the song of the birds and the light swish of the elven-robes. Arwen, rides Asfaloth.>

Elrond <V.O.>: Take her by the safest road. A ship lays anchored in the Grey Havens; it waits to carry her across the Sea.

Elrond <V.O.>: The last journey of Arwen Undómiel.

<The party of the elves moves on. No sounds are heard. Suddenly, a little boy in a white shirt, appears from nowhere. He runs as if in a dream into the woods.>

<Arwen turns to look at the boy, suddenly a vision of a gray-haired Aragorn appears running to the little boy, Eldarion, their son. Aragorn takes Eldarion in his arms and spins him around, both are laughing.>

<Arwen watches, tears forming in her eyes. Aragorn kisses their son then turns his face in Arwen's direction, meeting her eyes. We see that Eldarion is wearing the Evenstar around his neck.>

<Eldarion continues to stare at his mother and finally a single tear rolls down Arwen's cheek and she closes her eyes.>

<A flashback of Elrond in The Two Towers.>

Elrond: There is nothing for you here, only death.

<Arwen opens her eyes again and the vision is gone. One of the elves (Figwit) walks to Arwen.>

Elf Escort: Lady Arwen, we cannot delay.

<Without saying a word, Arwen makes Asfaloth turn back, intending to return to Rivendell.>

Elf Escort: My lady!

<Arwen arrives in the now deserted Rivendell where her father sits alone, writing something with a quill. He turns and watches as Arwen throws her velvet robe to the ground and hurries up the steps to her father.>

Arwen: Tell me what you have seen!

Elrond: Arwen!

Arwen: You have the gift of foresight, what did you see?

Elrond: I looked into your future and I saw death.

Arwen: But there is also life.

Arwen: You saw there was a child. You saw my son.

<Elrond turns his back at his daughter and leans against a railing and looks at the silent Rivendell.>

Elrond: That future is almost gone.

Arwen: But it is not lost!

<Elrond sits down, a dark expression on his face.>

Elrond: Nothing is certain.

<Arwen kneels before her father>

Arwen: Some things are certain.

Arwen: If I leave him now, I will regret it forever.

Arwen: It is time.

Scene 8 - The Reforging of Narsil

<We see a hooded Arwen, walking to the Shards of Narsil.>

Arwen <V.O.>: From the ashes a fire shall be woken, a light from the shadow shall spring, renewed shall be blade that was broken.

<A shot of Isildur cutting the Ring from Sauron's hand.>

Arwen <V.O.>: The crownless again shall be King.

Arwen: Re-forge the Sword . . . Ada. (Re-forge the Sword . . . Father.)

<Elrond turns away and Arwen sits down on a bed, holding a book in her hands, her breathing suddenly loud. She stares as the book in her hands drops to the ground. Elrond picks up the book, and takes Arwen's hands.>

Elrond: Your hands are cold. The life of the Eldar is leaving you.

Arwen: This was my choice. Ada, whether by your will or not, there is no ship now that can bear me hence.

Scene 9 - Minas Tirith

<Gandalf and Pippin ride Shadowfax across plains and through forests towards the city of Minas Tirith.>

Gandalf: We have just passed into the realm of Gondor.

<Shadowfax crests a hill. In the distance is the White City.>

Gandalf: Minas Tirith, City of Kings.

<Gandalf and Pippin ride through the streets of the seven-tiered city. Shadowfax gallops past startled citizens.>

Gandalf: Make way!

<They arrive at the top tier. Pippin stares at the White Tree. It is dead.>

Pippin: It's the tree.

Pippin: Gandalf, Gandalf!

Gandalf: Yes, the White Tree of Gondor, the tree of the King.

Gandalf: Lord Denethor however is not king. He is a steward only. A caretaker of the throne.

<They dismount and walk towards the stairs leading into the hall. Gandalf gives his young charge instructions.>

Gandalf: Listen carefully. Lord Denethor is Boromir's father. To give him news of his beloved son's death would be most unwise.

Gandalf: And, do not mention Frodo or the Ring.

Gandalf:And, say nothing of Aragorn either.

<Gandalf turns to enter, but stops, and glances down at Pippin.>

Gandalf: In fact, its better if you don't speak at all, Peregrin Took.

<Pippin nods. They enter through the doors. Gandalf strides quickly along the hall of the Kings. Pippin follows a few paces behind.>

<Gandalf approaches Denethor. Denethor sits on the Stewards throne, his face lowered, the broken Horn of Gondor in his hands.>

Gandalf: Hail, Denethor, son of Ecthelion, Lord and Steward of Gondor. I come with tidings in this dark hour and with counsel.

<Denethor, Steward of Gondor stares at the broken horn, slowly he raises his eyes to Gandalf.>

Denethor: Perhaps you come to explain this. Perhaps you come to tell me why my son is dead.

<Gandalf stares quietly. Pippin remembers Boromir's desperate fight with the orcs, trying to protect him and Merry.>

Pippin: Boromir died to save us, my kinsmen and me.

Pippin: He fell defending us from many foes.

<Pippin brushes past Gandalf, and kneels in front of Denethor.>

Gandalf: Pippin!

Pippin: I offer you my service such as it is.

<Gandalf closes his eyes, but doesn't interfere.>

Pippin: In payment of this debt.

<Denethor stares at the hobbit.>

<Gandalf uses his staff to nudge Pippin.>

Gandalf: Get up!

<Pippin stands with head lowered, and returns to stand behind Gandalf.>

Gandalf: My lord, there will be a time to grieve for Boromir, but it is not now.

Gandalf: War is coming.

<Denethor does not respond. He sits with face lowered.>

Gandalf: The enemy is on your doorstep.

Gandalf: As Steward, you're charged with the defense of this city. Where are Gondor's armies?

<Denethor raises his head to stare at Gandalf.>

Gandalf: You still have friends.

Gandalf: You're not alone in this fight. Send word to Théoden of Rohan.

Gandalf: Light the beacons.

Denethor: You think you are wise, Mithrandir, yet for all your subtleties you have not wisdom.

Denethor: Do you think the eyes of the White Tower are blind?

Denethor: I have seen more than you know.

Denethor: With your left hand you would use me as a shield against Mordor!

Denethor: And, with your right, you seek to supplant me!

Denethor: I know who rides with Théoden of Rohan.

Denethor: Oh, yes . . . words have reached my ears of this Aragorn, son of Arathorn, and I tell you now . . . I will not bow to this ranger from the north!

Denethor: Last of a ragged house long bereft of Lordship!

Gandalf: Authority is not given to you to deny the return of the King. Steward.

<Denethor jumps up from his chair.>

Denethor: The whole rule of Gondor is mine and no others!

<Pippin stares at Denethor, bewildered. Gandalf turns to leave.>

Gandalf: Come!

<Pippin trots after the wizard, out of the throne room.>

Scene 10 - "The Deep Breath Before the Plunge"

<Later that night on the walls of Minas Tirith.>

<Gandalf stands on the balcony smoking his pipe and looking toward Mordor. Pippin is within the room inspecting his newly issued uniform and equipment.>

Pippin: So I imagine this is just a ceremonial position. I mean, they don't actually expect me to do any fighting.

<Pippin examines his sword, replaces it within its sheath, and looks toward Gandalf.>

Pippin: Do they?

Gandalf: You're in the service of the Steward now, you're going to have to do as you're told, Peregrin Took, Guard of the Citadel.

<Pippin walks to the railing and leans against it.>

Pippin: It's so quiet...

Gandalf: It's the deep breath before the plunge.

Pippin: I don't want to be in a battle, but waiting on the edge of one I can't escape is even worse!

<Gandalf comes to stand beside the hobbit. Pippin turns his face upward to look at the wizard.>

Pippin: Is there any hope, Gandalf? For Frodo and Sam?

Gandalf: There never was much hope . . .

<Pippin looks at Gandalf, alarmed.>

Gandalf: Just a fool's hope.

<Gandalf turns his face in the direction of Mordor, where the night sky is painted red by Orodruin.>

Gandalf: Our enemy is ready, his full strength's gathered.

<A shot of Mûmakil, making their way to Minas Tirith.>

Gandalf: Not only orcs, but men as well, legions of Haradrim from the South . . .

<A shot of the Corsairs of Umbar.>

Gandalf: . . . Mercenaries from the coast.

Gandalf: All will answer Mordor's call.

<Castamir, the Corsair Captain is giving commands>

* Castamir: Come on!

<Back on the balcony in Minas Tirith>

Gandalf: This will be the end of Gondor as we know it.

Gandalf: Here the hammer stroke will fall hardest.

<A shot of Osgiliath.>

Gandalf: If the river is taken, if the garrison at Osgiliath falls, the last defense of this city will be gone.

Pippin: But we have the White Wizard, that's got to count for something.

<Gandalf is less confident than Pippin had hoped.>

Pippin: Gandalf?

<The Witchking of Angmar dresses for battle inside Minas Morgul. He pulls on his iron gloves and covers his faceless head with a helmet.>

Gandalf <V.O.>: Sauron has yet to reveal his deadliest servant.

Gandalf <V.O.>: The one who will lead Mordor's armies in war.

Gandalf <V.O.>: The one they say no living man can kill . . .

Gandalf <V.O.>: The Witchking of Angmar!

Gandalf <V.O.>: You've met him before

<Gandalf and Pippin exchange glances. The wizard continues.>

Gandalf: He stabbed Frodo on Weathertop.

<In a flashback, Pippin remembers Frodo being stabbed with the morgul blade.>

<Back in Minas Tirith. Pippin looks apprehensive.>

Gandalf: He is the lord of the Nazgûl . . .

<Gollum, Frodo and Sam stand next to the road that leads to the city of Minas Morgul.>

Gandalf <V.O.>: ...the greatest of the nine. Minas Morgul is his lair.

Scene 11 - Minas Morgul

<Frodo and his companions look in the direction of the Nazgûl city. It glows with eerie green light. Everything is silent. No movement.>

Gollum: The Dead City.

Gollum: Very nasty place.

Gollum: Full of . . . enemies.

<Gollum climbs onto the road. Frodo and Sam follow.>

Gollum: Quick! Quick!

Gollum: They will see! They will see!

<Gollum and Sam walk across the road to the other side. They pass two grotesque statues that seem to guard the entrance. Frodo stares at one of the gargoyles. He moves away from Sam and Gollum towards the city.>

Gollum: Come away! Come away!

<Frodo hesitates. Slowly he walks back to Sam. Gollum is sitting on a rock, pointing at stairs that wind to dizzying heights up a sheer cliff.>

Gollum: Look! We have found it, the way into Mordor.

Gollum: The Secret Stair . . . climb!

<Gollum and Sam start to climb the stairs. Frodo stops, compelled to turn and stare at the Dead City. His will weakens . . he begins to stagger towards the bridge, unable to stop himself.>

<Frodo clutches the Ring. It whispers to him. Sam and Gollum notice Frodo on the road.>

Sam: No! Mr. Frodo!

Gollum: Not that way!

<Gollum screams. Frodo staggers forward onto the bridge. Gollum and Sam scramble after him.>

Gollum: What's it doing?

<Sam restrains Frodo by grabbing his elven cloak. Frodo tries to resist, but is held back.>

Sam: No!

Frodo: They're calling me.

Gollum: No!

<Gollum and Sam struggle to bring Frodo back to the side of the road. Suddenly, the ground shakes and a shaft of green light shoots up from Minas Morgul. The air is filled with a menacing rumble coming from inside the city. The earth shakes. Sam, Frodo, and Gollum fall down.>

<Suddenly everything goes silent and then, with a huge pressure wave-like sound, from the middle of the city, erupts a column of green-blue light that goes straight to the cloud-filled sky. A signal.>

Gollum: Hide! Hide!

<On the walls of Minas Tirith, Gandalf and Pippin watch the pulsing green light in alarm.>

<Frodo clutches the Ring as they run behind the cover of the rocks.>

<The inhabitants and soldiers of Minas Tirith look on with fear. Pippin is terrified. Gandalf puts a reassuring arm around Pippin's shoulder.>

<Frodo and Sam watch as the Witchking rises from Minas Morgul on a Fell Beast.>

<Frodo in terror, slumps down, clenching his teeth in pain. The wound on his shoulder, given by the Witchking throbs. The Lord of the Nazgûl lets out a shattering scream. Frodo, Sam, and Gollum cover their ears, and writhe on the ground. Frodo holds his shoulder, his breathing becomes ragged, his face agonized.>

Frodo: I can feel his blade.

<Frodo grits his teeth and growls in pain as the Witchking's scream resounds in the air. The gates of Minas Morgul open. An army of orcs march out.>

<On the walls of Minas Tirith.>

Gandalf: We come to it at last, the great battle of our time.

<The Witchking watches as the orc army continue to march out. The Witchking and the Fell Beast fly through the Morgul Vale above the army. The host pass by Frodo, Sam, and Gollum in hiding. The Fell Beast screeches over their heads.>

Gollum: Come away, hobbits! We climb! We must climb!

<Frodo, Sam, and Gollum climb the steep stairs as the army marches below them.>

Scene 13 - Osgiliath Invaded

<The ruined city of Osgiliath, on the Anduin. Orcs are nearing the city by boat.>

Gothmog: Quiet.

<In Osgiliath, Faramir and his men prepare for the attack.>

Faramir: To the river! Quick, quick! Come on!

* Ranger <handing out weapons>: Go. Go. Come on.

Gothmog: Faster!

<The orcs row faster. There are large number of orcs. Inside the city the men are running to their posts.>

Gothmog: Draw swords!

<The orcs arrive. They leap from the boats to the shore. Faramir, leaning against a wall, watch as the orcs run right past him and his men. They wait. Faramir steps forth from his hiding place, and the battle begins. The men defend their city as more and more orcs arrive by boat.>

* Soldier: Hold! Hold!

Scene 14 - The Lighting of the Beacons

<Minas Tirith>

<Pippin is a small figure as he climbs to the tower to light the beacon. Pippin reaches for the burning lamp, but a rope snaps, spilling oil. Pippin drops the lamp into the haystack. It catches fire. Pippin is pleased, but soon notices that he is standing on the same haystack that is burning. Pippin scrambles down quickly just as the Gondorian guards notice the flames.>

* Beacon Guard <surprised>: What?

<Gandalf, below, sees the lit beacon and runs to a wall and watches as the chain of beacons light.>

Gandalf: Amon Dîn . . .

* Guard: The beacon! The beacon of Amon Dîn is lit!

<Denethor looks resentfully at the sight of the lit beacon from his chamber.>

Gandalf: Hope is kindled.

<The signal beacons light in quick succession across the snowy, mountain peaks.>

Scene 15 - Théoden's Decision

<Night comes and passes before the signal beacon reaches Rohan, where Aragorn sees it and runs into Meduseld.>

Aragorn: The Beacons of Minas Tirith! The Beacons are lit!

Aragorn: Gondor calls for aid!

<Théoden remains silent. Éowyn stands beside her brother. Everyone waits for the King's answer.>

Théoden: And Rohan will answer.

Théoden: Muster the Rohirrim!

<The muster bell is struck. Men climb on horses. Théoden and company stride out of Meduseld.>

<Éomer bows and leaves to gather up the riders. We go outside and see the people prepare for leaving. Théoden is talking to Éomer.>

Théoden: Assemble the army at Dunharrow; as many men as can be found. You have two days.

<Éomer nods, but is stopped by his uncle.>

Théoden: On the third, we ride for Gondor. And war.

* Soldier 1: Forward.

* Soldier 2: Very good, sir.

Théoden: Gamling . . .

Gamling: My Lord.

Théoden: . . . make haste across the Riddermark. Summon every able-bodied man to Dunharrow.

Gamling: I will.

<The scene goes to Aragorn, who is securing his gear on Brego. Éowyn joins him, leading a horse with her.>

Aragorn: You ride with us?

Éowyn: Just to the encampment. It's tradition for the women of the court to farewell the men.

<Aragorn looks at Éowyn, walks over to her horse and lifts up the folded blanket, revealing a sword. Éowyn pulls it down.>

Éowyn: The men have found their captain, they will follow you into battle, even to death.

Éowyn: You have given us hope.

<We see the women and children of Rohan saying good-bye to the men. King Théoden watches as the flag of Rohan flaps in the air. He watches the people of Rohan.>

Théoden <V.O.>: So it is before the walls of Minas Tirith, the doom of our time will be decided.

<We see Aragorn mount Brego as Éomer talks to the riders.>

Éomer: Now is the hour, Riders of Rohan, oaths you have taken! Now, fulfill them all! To Lord and Land!

<The Riders of Rohan, led by their King, leave Edoras. Merry, on a pony, rides with them.>

Scene 16 - The Fall of Osgiliath

<The desperate battle at Osgiliath continues. Faramir and his men fight bravely but are on the losing side. The orcs are everywhere and men fall down, dead. We see Faramir running to Madril, dozen orcs coming after him.>

Madril: Faramir!

<Faramir sees the archers, ready to shoot, and jumps out of the way. The orcs coming after him receive a volley of arrows.>

Madril: We can't hold them! The city is lost.

<Faramir looks around him and agrees.>

Faramir: Tell the men to break cover. We ride for Minas Tirith.

<More men are being killed and suddenly the scream of the Nazgûl reaches the soldier's ears.>

Damrod: Nazgûl . . .

<The Nazgûl, with their Fell beast circle over the city. The Fell beast grab men with their huge claws.>

Faramir: Take cover!

* Soldier: Nazgûl!

Faramir: Pull back! Pull back to Minas Tirith!

<With Faramir's lead, the men retreat. Madril gets badly wounded and falls behind. The Nazgûl keep attacking as the men ride away with their horses.>

* Soldier: Fall back!

* Faramir: Retreat! Retreat!

* Soldier: Come on!

<We see Madril lying on the ground, almost dead. The orcs come to stand around him and he watches as Gothmog, the ugly-faced leader of the orcs, takes a spear and crushes it into his chest, killing him.>

Gothmog: The age of men is over. The time of the orc has come.

<We see the surviving soldiers ride away from Osgiliath in a hurry, the Nazgûl coming after them. The Fell beast keep flying around the men, lifting them from their horses with their claws, then throwing them to the ground.>

* Soldier 1: Take cover!

* Soldier 2: Take cover, my lord!

* Soldier 3: It's coming!

<We then see Gandalf, riding with Shadowfax, Pippin with him. From Minas Tirith, he rides to the aid of the men. The Gondorian Soldiers and the civilians are watching him from the walls.>

* Soldier of Minas Tirith 1: It's Mithrandir.

* Soldier of Minas Tirith 2: The White Rider!

<Shadowfax carries them closer to where the three Nazgûl are still attacking Faramir and his men. When everything looks hopeless, Gandalf rises his staff and a bright, white light beams from the head.>

<Meanwhile in Minas Tirith Irolas, a captain of the Citadel Guard, is shouting orders from in front of the Gate>

Irolas: Pull!

<Back on the Pelennor Fields the light drives away the Nazgûl and the men are safe to ride into Minas Tirith. Once inside the gates, Faramir rides to Gandalf.>

Faramir: Mithrandir! They broke through our defenses; they've taken the bridge in the West bank. Battalions of orcs are crossing the river.

Irolas: It is as Lord Denethor predicted! Long has he foreseen this doom!

Gandalf: Foreseen and done nothing!

<Gandalf turns around with Shadowfax, revealing Pippin who is sitting in front of him. As Faramir sees the hobbit, he stares at him. Pippin notices he is being stared at and tries to lower his face.>

Gandalf: Faramir?

Gandalf: This is not the first halfling to have crossed your path?

Faramir: No . . .

<Pippin looks up, the look on his face getting brighter.>

Pippin: You've seen Frodo and Sam!

<Faramir nods at Pippin.>

Gandalf: Where? When?

Faramir: In Ithilien, not two days ago.

<Pippin turns to look at Gandalf, both look happy and relieved.>

Faramir: Gandalf, they're taking the road to the Morgul Vale.

<The smile on Gandalf's face fades and he looks at Faramir, his eyes filling with worry.>

Gandalf: And then the Pass of Cirith Ungol.

<Faramir nods silently.>

Pippin: What does that mean? What's wrong?

Gandalf: Faramir, tell me everything.

Scene 17 - The Stairs of Cirith Ungol

<High above Minas Morgul, Frodo, Sam, and Gollum are climbing the winding stairs. For the small hobbits, the steep stairs are a huge trial. As Frodo climbs up, he almost falls, losing his footing.>

Gollum: Careful, master! Careful!

Gollum: Very far to fall!

<Gollum is the first one to finish climbing and he pulls himself up to a small landing. He turns to look down at Frodo and Sam who are still climbing.>

Gollum: Very dangerous are the stairs . . .

<Finally Frodo reaches the ledge. He tries to get a good grip to pull himself up.>

Gollum: Come, master!

<As Frodo is trying to pull himself up, the Ring falls out from under his shirt. Gollum watches it with gleaming eyes.>

Gollum: Come to Sméagol!

<Slowly he reaches out with his right hand, his fingers moving towards the Ring around Frodo's neck. The call of the Ring can be heard on the background, not at all enticing, but more like it's ordering Gollum to take It. He almost has his hand on the Ring when Sam, right behind Frodo, sees what he's up to.>

Sam: Mister Frodo!

<Sam pulls out his sword and Gollum frowns at him.>

Sam: Get back, you! Don't touch him!

<Gollum is fighting with his urge to take the Ring, but at the last moment, grips Frodo's hand instead of the Ring. Frodo is pulled up by Gollum.>

Gollum: Why does he hates poor Sméagol? What has Sméagol ever done to him?

<Sam is still struggling in the stairs and Gollum moves closer to Frodo who is lying on the ground, catching his breath.>

Gollum: Master?

<Gollum strokes Frodo's arm and speaks with a whispering voice.>

Gollum: Master carries heavy burden. . . Sméagol knows . . . Heavy, heavy burden .

<Behind them, Sam is pulling himself up to the landing.>

Gollum: Fat one cannot know.

<Gollum moves to lie beside Frodo, his face only inches away from Frodo's as he continues.>

Gollum: Sméagol look after Master.

<Sam, still partly over the ledge, watches as Gollum is whispering to the weary and mixed up Frodo.>

Gollum: He wants It. He needs It, Sméagol sees it in his eye!

<Frodo is listening to Gollum, already starting to doubt Sam's trustworthiness.>

Gollum: Very soon he will ask you for It! You will see!

<Frodo's eyes are filled with doubt and confusion.>

Gollum: The fat one will take It from you!

<With this Frodo turns around, looking at Sam with suspicion in his eyes, clutching the Ring protectively.>

Scene 18 - Allegiance to Denethor

<Osgiliath. The Witchking of Angmar, with his Fell Beast, sitting up in the top of a tower, watches the ruined city. Gothmog, the ugly-faced orc commander, comes to see him.>

Witchking: Send forth all legions. Do not stop the attack untill the city is taken. Slay them all.

Gothmog: What of the wizard?

Witchking: I will break him.

<Minas Tirith. Gandalf on the wall, watches the fields below with Gondorian guards.>

* Gondorian Soldier 1: Where are Théoden's riders?

* Gondorian Soldier 3: Will Rohan's army come?

* Gondorian Soldier 1: Mithrandir?

Gandalf: Courage is the best defence that you have now.

<Minas Tirith. Pippin kneels before Denethor. Faramir watches nearby.>

Pippin: Here do I swear fealty and service to Gondor. In peace or war.

Pippin: In living or dying.

<Pippin struggles to remember the oath. Denethor is amused by this and gives the hobbit a smile.>

Pippin: Fr . . . from . . . from this hour henceforth, until my lord release me, or death take me.

Denethor: And I shall not forget it. Nor fail to reward that which is given.

<Denethor offers his hand to Pippin. In pledge, he kisses Denethor 's ring. Denethor cups Pippin's face and makes him look up.>

Denethor: Fealty with love. Valor with honor. Disloyalty with vengeance.

<Denethor turns, walks to a well laden table. Sits down and starts a meal.>

<Denethor eyes Faramir as he fills his plate.>

Denethor: I do not think we should so lightly abandon the outer defenses. Defenses that your brother long held intact.

Faramir: What would you have me do?

Denethor: I will not yield the river and Pelennor unfought. Osgiliath must be retaken.

Faramir: My lord, Osgiliath is overrun.

Denethor: Much must be risked in war. Is there a Captain here who still has the courage to do his lord's will?

<Pippin looks at Denethor, then turns to look at Faramir, confused. Faramir watches his father with a saddened expression.>

Faramir: You wish now that our places had been exchanged. That I had died and Boromir had lived.

<Denethor is silent before answering, the expression on his face serious.>

Denethor: Yes. I wish that.

<Denethor brings a goblet to his lips and drinks. Faramir looks at his father, tears forming in his eyes.>

Faramir: Since you are robbed of Boromir, I will do what I can in his stead.

<Faramir bows to his father and turns around to leave. Pippin watches Faramir walk away. Denethor sits silently with the wine goblet in his grasp. Faramir stops and turns back to look at Denethor.>

Faramir: If I should return, think better of me father.

Denethor: That will depend on the manner of your return.

Scene 19 - The Parting of Sam and Frodo

<On a ledge, high above Minas Morgul>

<Sam and Frodo sleep. Gollum opens his eyes. He crawls down and opens Sam's bag and takes the last pack of lembas bread out.>

Gollum: Ugh!

<Gollum unwraps the pack and scatters crumbs on Sam's elven cloak. Gollum moves to the ledge and throws down the Lembas bread. Seconds later, Sam awakes.>

Sam: What are you up to?

<Gollum turns in surprise.>

Sam: Sneaking off are we?

Gollum: Sneaking? Ssneaking?

Gollum: Fat hobbit is always so polite.

Gollum: Sméagol shows them secret ways that nobody else could find and they say "sneak". Sneak?

Gollum: Very nice friend. Oh yes, my preciousss, very nice, very . . .

Sam: All right! All right!

Sam: You just startled me is all.

<Sam looks down from where he is standing, trying to see if anything looks suspicious.>

Sam: What are you doing?

Gollum: Sneaking . . .

Sam: Fine. Have it your own way.

<Sam kneels down to wake Frodo.>

Sam: I'm sorry to wake you, Mr. Frodo. We have to be moving on.

<Frodo slowly gets up.>

Frodo: It's dark still.

Sam: It's always dark here.

<Sam looks into his bag, finding nothing but the empty pack where their Lembas bread used to be.>

Sam: It's gone! The elven bread!

Frodo: What? That's all we have left!

<Sam stands up and turns to look at Gollum, who is squatting a little higher up, merely scratching his head.>

Sam: He took it! He must have!

Gollum: Sméagol? No, no, not poor Sméagol. Sméagol hates nasty Elf bread.

Sam: You're a lying wretch! What did you do with it?!

<Frodo looks at Sam.>

Frodo: He doesn't eat it.

<Frodo stands before Sam, a frown on his face.>

Frodo: He can't have taken it.

Gollum: Look, what's this?

<Gollum wipes away the crumbs of Lembas bread from Sam's shoulder.>

Gollum: Crumbs on his jacketsses. He took it!

<Frodo starts to doubt Sam's word. He looks at him with a confused expression. Sam is speechless. Gollum jumps down and kneels in Frodo's feet.>

Gollum: He took it!! I've seen him. He is always stuffing his face when Master is not looking.

Sam: That's a filthy lie!

<Sam, in anger, hits Gollum. Gollum falls, Sam drops to his knees, and starts to strangle Gollum.>

Sam: You stinking, two-faced sneak!

<Frodo watches in confusion, as Sam beats Gollum.>

Frodo: Sam!

Sam: Call me . . .

Frodo:Stop it! Sam!

<Frodo uses the little strength he has to pull Sam away from Gollum.>

Sam: I'll kill him!

Frodo: Sam! No!

<In exhausation, Frodo's eyes roll back, he sinks to the ground, Sam's hands still on his shoulders.>

Sam: Oh my! I'm sorry! I didn't mean it to go so far. I was just so . . . so angry.

<Sam is alarmed by Frodo's lack of strength.>

Sam: Here, just . . . Let's just rest a bit.

Frodo: I'm all right.

Sam: No, no you're not all right. You're exhausted. It's that Gollum. It's this place. It's that thing around your neck.

<At the mention of the Ring, Frodo's eyes widen, and a frown creases his face. Slowly, he turns to stare suspiciously at Sam.>

Sam: I could help a bit. I could carry it for a while . .

<Frodo's eyes narrow at Sam.>

Sam: . . carry it for a while . . . I could carry it . . carry it . . share the load . . . the load. <Sam's voice fades away.>

<Frodo watches Sam, the words echo and fade. Suddenly, enraged, Frodo pushes Sam.>

Frodo: Get away!

<Sam does not understand why Frodo is angry.>

Sam: I don't want to keep it!

<The angry and confused Frodo glares at Sam, who is lying on the ground.>

Sam: I just want to help.

<Gollum, peeks from behind Frodo's back, and smirks at Sam.>

Gollum: See? See? He wants it for himself.

<Frodo turns to Sam. Frodo believes Gollum. Sam is confused and devastated by Frodo's demeanor.>

Sam: Shut up, you! Go away!

<Sam receives a mean grimace from Gollum.>

Sam: Get out of here!

Frodo: No Sam. It's you.

<Sam slowly looks up to meet Frodo's eyes. He cannot believe what he is hearing, tears form in his eyes.>

Frodo: I'm sorry, Sam.

Sam: But, he's a liar! He's poisoned you against me!

Frodo: You can't help me anymore.

<Sam is desperate. Pleading. He is confused, and hurt by Frodo's words.>

Sam: You don't mean that.

<With a blank face, Frodo turns away from his friend.>

Frodo: Go home . . .

<Sam is devastated. Tears of frustration and exhaustation roll down his cheeks. He sinks to the ground, his heart broken. Frodo continues his journey without Sam.>

Scene 20 - The Sacrifice of Faramir

<The streets of Minas Tirith.>

<Faramir and his knights ride through the streets, lined with sad-faced Gondorians. The women throw flowers before the horses.>

<Gandalf runs to catch up with Faramir.>

Gandalf: Faramir, Faramir! Your father's will has turned to madness. Do not throw away your life so rashly.

Faramir: Where does my allegiance lie if not here?

<Gandalf stops and watches as Faramir rides away.>

Gandalf: Your father loves you, Faramir.

Gandalf: He will remember it before the end.

<The knights reach the gates and ride out. They form a line only two ranks deep on the Pelennor as guards and civilians watch from the walls of Minas Tirith. The knight's charge. Orcs in Osgiliath see the thin line stretched across the plains and emerge from the ruins.>

<The Throne room in Minas Tirith>

<Denethor is eating. Pippin waits upon him.>

Denethor: Can you sing, Master Hobbit?

Pippin: Well . . . yes. At least, well enough for my own people.

Pippin: But, we have no songs for great halls and . . . evil times.

Denethor: And why should your songs be unfit for my halls?

Denethor: Come, sing me a song.

<Denethor eats loudly. Denethor bites into a tomato, the juices running down his chin. Pippin takes a breath and begins the song as Denethor eats.>

Pippin <singing softly>: Home is behind . . .

<The Pelennor>

<Faramir and his knights thunder across the plains.>

Pippin <V.O.>: . . . the world ahead . . .

<The orcs in Osgiliath take up positions.>

Pippin <V.O.>: . . . and there are many paths to tread . . .

<Denethor eats.>

<Faramir draws his sword.>

Pippin <V.O.>: . . . through shadow . . .

<Pippin is solemn.>

Pippin: . . . to the edge of night . . .

<Faramir and his knights approach Osgiliath.>

Pippin <V.O.>: . . . until the stars are all alight . . .

<The rest of the knights draw swords. Denethor eats. Orcs draw bows.>

Pippin <V.O.>: . . . mist and shadow, cloud and shade . . .

<Faramir stares at death.>

Pippin <V.O.>: . . . all shall fade . . .

Pippin: . . . all shall . . .

<The orcs fire. Denethor's mouth drips the bright red blood of the berries.>

Pippin: . . . fade.

<Pippin looks with sorrow at Denethor. Denethor has no emotion. Pippin turns away, tears in his eyes.>

<In a courtyard, not far off, Gandalf sits alone.>

<In Osgiliath the troops of Sauron are preparing to attack Minas Tirith. Trolls push massive siege towers across the Pelennor Fields.>

Orcs <chanting>: March! March! March! March! March!

Scene 21 - Marshalling at Dunharrow

<Dunharrow Encampment>

<Théoden and Aragorn ride to Dunharrow where the army of Rohan is gathering before going to Gondor. The men stand up as Théoden rides past.>

* Soldier 1: Make way for the king!

* Soldier 2: Make way!

* Soldier 3: The king is here!

* Soldier 4: My Lord.

* Soldier 5: Hail to you, Sire!

Théoden: Grimbold, how many?

Grimbold: I bring five hundred men from the Westfold, my Lord.

* Rohan Marshall: We have three hundred more from Fenmarch, Théoden King.

Théoden: Where are the riders from Snowbourn?

Gamling: None have come, my Lord.

<In the next scene Aragorn walks to stand beside Théoden who is looking down from a high landing. They survey the encampment below.>

Théoden: Six thousand spears. Less than half of what I'd hoped for.

Aragorn: Six thousand will not be enough to break the lines of Mordor.

Théoden: More will come.

Aragorn: Every hour lost hastens Gondor's defeat.

Aragorn: We have till dawn. Then we must ride.

<Théoden looks at Aragorn and nods. They both turn to look behind back at a few men having trouble controlling their horses. Legolas, with Gimli, walks to Éomer.>

Legolas: The horses are restless . . . and the men are quiet.

Éomer: They grow nervous in the shadow of the mountain.

<They both look at the Dwimorberg, the Haunted Mountain.>

Gimli: That road there; where does that lead?

Legolas: It is the road to the Dimholt; the door under the the mountain.

Éomer: None who venture there ever return.

Éomer: That mountain is evil.

<Aragorn walks towards the split in the mountain. Floating in the narrow path is a spectre, the King of the Dead. It flickers there momentarily, then disappears. Aragorn stares unsure what he has seen. He is startled by Gimli.>

Gimli: Aragorn.

Gimli: Let's find some food.

<Before following, Aragorn glances in the direction of the mountain but the King of the Dead is there no more.>

<Aragorn follows Gimli reluctantly.>

<Dunharrow at night. Éowyn is in her tent with Merry. He is dressed in armor as an esquire to King Théoden. He examines the outfit excitedly. With a laugh, Éowyn places a helmet on Merry's head.>

Éowyn: There. A true esquire of Rohan.

<Merry feels his helmet, an excited smile on his face.>

Merry: I'm ready!

<Merry unsheathes his sword and Éowyn leans back, startled but laughing.>

Merry: Sorry . . . It isn't all that dangerous.

<Merry examines his sword.>

Merry: It's not even sharp!

Éowyn: Well that's no good. You won't kill many orcs with a blunt blade. Come on!

<Éowyn leads Merry out of the tent. Éomer and Gamling sit by a fire as Merry passes by and lashes the air with his sword. Éowyn walks behind him, laughing.>

Éowyn: To the smithy, go!

Éomer: You should not encourage him.

Éowyn: You should not doubt him.

Éomer: I do not doubt his heart, only the reach of his arm.

<Gamling laughs at this but Éowyn is serious.>

Éowyn: Why should Merry be left behind; he has as much cause go to war as you!

<Éomer is silent and listens to his sister.>

Éowyn: Why can he not fight for those he loves?

Scene 22 - Andúril - Flame of the West

<Dunharrow at night>

<A hooded and cloaked figure appears riding a white horse up the dark path. They pass at every curve, by the Pukel-men, stones carved in the likeness of a men, huge and clumsy limbed with arms folded across fat bellies. >

<Aragorn is sleeping restlessly. He sees Arwen in a dream. She is lying on a bed in Rivendell with her eyes closed. She looks ill. Arwen opens her eyes, her face pale.>

Arwen <V.O.>: I choose a mortal life.

<Arwen, lying in Rivendell, a single tear falls from her eye.>

Arwen: I wish I could have seen him . . . one last time.

<Arwen closes her eyes and the Evenstar falls through the air and hits the ground, shattering into a million pieces.>

<Startled by this, Aragorn awakes, leaps up, and draws his sword. He sees a soldier of the Rohan Royal Guard at the tent door.>

* Royal Guard: Sir? King Théoden awaits you, my Lord.

<Aragorn sighs, and follows the soldier to Théoden's tent.>

<A mysterious figure, a dark hood covering his face, sits waiting. Théoden nods to Aragorn.>

Théoden: I take my leave

<Aragorn is surprised when Elrond removes his hood. He bows his head.>

Aragorn: My Lord, Elrond.

Elrond: I come on behalf of one whom I love.

Elrond: Arwen is dying.

<Aragorn stares at Elrond.>

Elrond: She will not long survive the evil that now spreads from Mordor.

Elrond: The light of the Evenstar is failing. As Sauron's power grows, her strength wanes.

Elrond: Arwen's life is now tied to the fate of the Ring.

Elrond: The shadow is upon us, Aragorn.

Elrond: The end has come.

Aragorn: It will not be our end but His.

Elrond: You ride to war but not to victory.

Elrond: Sauron's armies march on Minas Tirith, this you know. But in secret He sends another force, which will attack, from the river.

<A shot of the Black ships and the Corsairs of Umbar.>

Elrond: A fleet of Corsair ships sails from the South. They'll be in the city in two days. You're outnumbered, Aragorn.

Elrond: You need more men.

Aragorn: There are none.

Elrond: There are those who dwell in the mountain.

<A strong wind suddenly blows in the tent. A shot of the King of the Dead.>

Aragorn: Murderers. Traitors.

Aragorn: You would call upon them to fight?

Aragorn: They believe in nothing! They answer to no one.

Elrond: They will answer to the King of Gondor!

<With this said, Elrond pulls out Anduril, that is Narsil reforged, from under his robes and holds it out for Aragorn.>

Elrond: Andúril . . . the Flame of the West. Forged from the shards of Narsil.

<Aragorn walks to Elrond and looks at the sword. He takes it into his hands.>

Aragorn: Sauron will not have forgotten the Sword of Elendil.

<Aragorn pulls Anduril out of its sheath, holding the blade up to examine.>

Aragorn: The Blade that was broken shall return to Minas Tirith.

Elrond: The man who can wield the power of this sword, can summon to him an army more deadly than any that walks this earth.

Elrond: Put aside the ranger. Become who you were born to be.

Elrond: Take the Dimholt road.

<Aragorn blinks his eyes and lowers the sword.>

Elrond: Ónen i-Estel Edain. (I gave Hope to the Dúnedain.)

Aragorn: Ú-chebin Estel anim. (I have kept no hope for myself.)

<Aragorn puts Andúril back to its sheath>

Scene 23 - Aragorn Takes the Paths of the Dead

<Outside the tents. Aragorn is fastening his gear to Brego's back. Éowyn approaches Aragorn.>

Éowyn: Why are you doing this?

Éowyn: The war lies to the East; you cannot leave on the eve of battle!

<Aragorn looks at Éowyn.>

Éowyn: You cannot abandon the men.

Aragorn: Éowyn . . .

Éowyn: We need you here.

Aragorn: Why have you come?

<Éowyn is silent for a while and watches Aragorn.>

Éowyn: Do you not know?

<They look at each other in silence. Éowyn's eyes glisten with tears.>

Aragorn: It is but a shadow and a thought that you love.

Aragorn: I cannot give you what you seek.

<Éowyn takes a few steps back, looking heartsick. Aragorn takes Brego and walks away, leaving Éowyn to stand alone, with tears in her eyes.>

<Aragorn walks past Gimli towards the mountain. Gimli stops him.>

Gimli: Just where do you think you're off to?

Aragorn: Not this time. This time you must stay, Gimli.

<Gimli disagrees. Legolas appears with a grin, leading his tacked up horse.>

Legolas: Have you learned nothing of the stubbornness of dwarves?

Gimli: You might as well accept it. We're going with you, Laddie.

<Aragorn does not argue. The three friends leave for the Dimholt road. The soldiers become alarmed as they see Aragorn leaving. King Théoden watches them leave.>

* Soldier 1: What's happening?

* Soldier 2: Where's he going?

* Soldier 3: I don't understand.

* Soldier 4: Lord Aragorn!

* Soldier 5: Why does he leave on the eve of battle?

Gamling: He leaves because there is no hope.

Théoden: He leaves because he must.

Gamling: Too few have come. We cannot defeat the armies of Mordor.

Théoden: No, we cannot.

Théoden: But we will meet them in battle nonetheless.

Scene 24 - "No More Despair"

<It is dawn. Éowyn is standing alone outside, watching the sun rise and is joined by her uncle.>

Théoden: I have left instructions. The people are to follow your rule in my stead.

<Théoden turns around and walks to stand before his serious-looking niece.>

Théoden: Take up my seat in the Golden Hall. Long may you defend Edoras if the battle goes ill.

Éowyn: What other duty would you have me do, my lord?

Théoden: Duty? No . . .

<He walks to Éowyn and takes her hands into his own.>

Théoden: I would have you smile again. Not grief for those whose time has come.

Théoden: You shall live to see these days renewed.

<Théoden cups Éowyn's face and presses their foreheads together.>

Théoden: And no more despair.

Scene 25 - Dwimorberg - The Haunted Mountain

<Paths of the Dead>

<It is daytime and Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli are making their way to the Dark Door, the entrance to the Paths of the Dead.>

Gimli: What kind of army would linger in such a place?

Legolas: One that is cursed.

Legolas: Long ago the Men of the Mountains swore an oath to the last king of Gondor . . .

Legolas: . . . To come to his aid, to fight. But when the time came, when Gondor's need was dire, they fled . . .

Legolas: . . . Vanishing into the darkness of the mountain . . .

Legolas: And so Isildur cursed them . . . never to rest, until they had fulfilled their pledge.

<The three of them finally stand before the slope of the Dwimorberg, and lead their restless horses towards the entrance.>

Gimli: The very warmth of my blood seems stole away.

<Legolas stops and stares at the entrance. He reads the inscription.>

Legolas: The way is shut. It was made by those who were dead, and the dead keep it.

Legolas: The way is shut.

<A sudden blast of wind, mingled with the cries of the dead, coming from inside scares away the horses.>

Aragorn: Brego!

<Aragorn turns to look at the entrance.>

Aragorn: I do not fear death!

<With this, he walks in, and disappears into the darkness. Legolas and Gimli are left behind and watch in terror. Legolas hesitates and follows Aragorn. Only Gimli remains.>

Gimli: Well this is something unheard of! An elf will go underground where a dwarf dare not?

Gimli: Ahh . . . I'd never hear the end of it!

<Gimli enters behind his friends.>

Scene 26 - The Muster of Rohan

<Dunharrow Muster>

<The Rohirrim prepare to leave in a hurry. Théoden and Éomer leave a tent.>

Théoden: We must ride light and swift.

Théoden: It's a long road ahead.

Théoden: And man and beast must reach the end with the strength to fight.

<Merry, too, is ready to leave, but Théoden won't take him with them.>

Théoden: Little hobbits do not belong in war, Master Meriadoc.

Merry: All my friends have gone to battle! I would be ashamed to be left behind!

Théoden: It is a three day gallop to Minas Tirith and none of my riders can bear you as a burden.

Merry: I want to fight!

Théoden: I will say no more.

<Théoden rides away, leaving the disappointed Merry to stand and watch as the men ride past him. As Merry stands there, one of the riders (Dernhelm, who is really Éowyn in disguise) snatches Merry up onto a horse.>

Éowyn <as Dernhelm>: Ride with me.

Merry: My lady!

Éomer: Form up! Move out!

Théoden: Ride! Ride now to Gondor!

<Pelennor Fields>

<The Rohirrim ride for Gondor. At the same time, Sauron's huge armies march towards Minas Tirith. The air is filled with the battlecries of the Orc. Huge Trolls are beating drums as the troops march steadily toward Minas Tirith.>