The Outer Limits (1995–2002): Season 1, Episode 9 - Corner of the Eye - full transcript
Father Jenescu is struck while ministering to the poor and looks up to see a vision of Hell - a leering demonic creature. An eye blink later he sees an ordinary patrol officer trying to help him. He dismisses the apparition until he sees another one in his church. Then he goes to the doctor to learn what's wrong and discovers that one must be careful who one trusts.
People, food and blankets
from St. Devra's.
- Here you are, Charlie. Come on.
- Who wants blankets?
- Nice to see you. Don't forget- 11:00.
- Blanket.
- See ya Sunday.
- I'll see you Sunday morning- early mass.
Blankets?
You're welcome.
- Just one sandwich.
- Thank you very much.
Blanket, anyone?
Blanket? Blanket?
See you Sunday.
Don't forget- Sunday morning.
Who wants blankets?
Who hasn't got a blanket?
I'm Father Jonascu from St. Devra's.
May I give you this blanket?
Please, for the child's sake?
Take it with my blessing.
God bless you.
God help them.
Who hasn't got a sandwich?
You got one?
Looking for water.
We'll see you Sunday morning?
This makes you just feel so great,
doesn't it, Father?
Why do we even bother, John?
You think one sandwich
will stop their hunger?
Well, it'll stop one person's hunger
for a little while.
It's a start.
- It's the police.
- The police!
- Hide!
- Everybody, run!
Move. Everyone, get out of here.
Quickly!
Come on. Riot formation.
Take the child to the shelter
on Fourth Street. Quickly!
- Let's go! Let's go!
- Run on. Run.
Clean 'em out!
Move 'em all out of here!
Let's round 'em all up!
Wait. Wait. Stop it! Stop it.
What're you doin'?
- Move! Move!
- In the name of God, stop this!
Clear this scum out of here!
Stop it!
No! No! Stop that!
- You all right, Father?
- I'm fine.
What is wrong with you people?
Let's get you out of here.
That's good advice, Father.
Anton?
Anton!
There is nothing wrong
with your television.
Do not attempt
to adjust the picture.
We are now controlling
the transmission.
We control
the horizontal...
and the vertical.
We can deluge you
with a thousand channels...
or expand one single image
to crystal clarity...
and beyond.
We can shape
your vision...
to anything
our imagination can conceive.
For the next hour...
we will control
all that you see and hear.
You are about to experience
the awe and mystery...
which reaches from
the deepest inner mind to...
The Outer Limits.
Let's get out of here!
In a world filled with darkness...
Father Anton Jonascu's faith has long been
a beacon oflight for those in need.
But now the good father
finds himself at a crossroads...
in danger oflosing his way.
I can't come back here, John.
The suffering, the futility-
It's starting to get to me.
L-
I feel like I'm losing my mind.
You can't give up hope.
Come on. Come on.
- You saw it, right, Father?
- What? What?
- I saw you see him!
- Carlito, stop that!
That guy-That cop-
I saw what you saw!
- I saw many horrible things.
- Well, this was different!
Carlito, listen.
Please try to calm down!
They think I'm crazy, but I'm not!
- That cop- He's no cop! I s-
- What? What-
You gotta tell someone!
He'll listen to you.
Tell them you saw the face of evil.
Listen, why don't you come back
to the church with us?
I got proof. I snuck up on him,
and I got proof.
I'm telling the truth.
I am the truth.
Poor soul.
- Let's go.
- Yes.
Let's get 'em out of here.
Come on. Move it! Move it!
Stop it!
I used to believe...
if I could save just one soul,
it would be enough.
I don't think
I believe that anymore.
That'll stop the bleeding.
You know, Anton, caffeine's probably not
the best thing for you right now.
You need to get some sleep.
You won't be in any shape to-
Say the evening mass.
Let me guess.
You want to say it for me.
Not tonight.
You can say it when I'm gone.
- Gone?
- Yes.
I'm thinking about asking the monsignor
for a reassignment-
someplace with children, laughter.
Anton, look, this is no time
to make that kind of decision.
You know, take some time off.
Our problems will still be here
when you get back.
Yes, that much I'm certain of.
Excuse me.
Are you Dr. Gidden's replacement?
I'm not sure if that's
the proper way of putting it...
but, yes, I'm taking his calls.
I was shocked to hear of his death.
I've been his patient
most of my adult life.
Yes, well, he was
a very good doctor.
You must be...
Father Jonascu.
Yes.
Well, come in. Come in.
I'm afraid I've found the cause of
the visual anomalies you've experienced.
I assume it's because
I've been working too hard...
drinking too much coffee.
The stress has been relentless.
I'm afraid it's not that simple.
This gray mass on the MRI
is a malignant tumor.
Because of its proximity
to the cerebellum...
I'm afraid it's inoperable.
I'm very sorry.
That's not possible.
I'm- I'm-
I mean, I was fine until l-
My God.
Father Jonascu?
Carlito.
How are you feeling?
I'm okay. I'm straight.
I haven't used nothing in two days.
That's wonderful, Carlito.
If you'll excuse me.
I'm sorry for goin' crazy.
I'm not long for this world, Father.
I want to make my confession.
I can't just now. I simply can't.
It wouldn't be fair to you.
Perhaps Father Royce.
No, it has to be you...
'cause you're the only one
who'll understand.
Then it'll have to wait.
I don't have time, man.
'Cause my days are numbered.
I got proof.
Carlito, wait. Wait!
I called the clinic.
They said you left hours ago.
So, what's the verdict?
The clinic-The doctors-
What did they have to say?
You know how it is
with these doctors.
He needs to do more tests.
What, they couldn't
tell you anything?
What about your headaches?
You were probably right.
I work too hard...
and I worry about too many things.
Amen to that.
All of us go through life
sheltering ourselves from reality...
because, when we go out
into the world...
we hear the sound of people suffering...
and we see the world around us
is not pretty.
We see the homeless
and the hungry...
crying out for our attention.
Yet we avert our eyes...
hardening our hearts
to their pleas.
We read Christ's words,
but fail to heed them.
We-
Look within, each of you...
and ask yourself...
am I helping my fellow man...
or am I lost, all alone?
Strive to-
- Is he okay?
- Strive to-
to work as one-
Are you okay?
Look. There, near the back-
What do you see?
I see a woman
I don't recognize.
- What do you see?
- I see a-
a woman-just a woman.
Can you get through
the rest of the service?
With God's help.
A moment ago...
I spoke...
of the very small tragedies
of our day-to-day lives...
the monstrous evils
of poverty and despair.
But what of the real evils
in our midst-
the ones that look like us...
but aren't us?
The deceivers-
like viruses we can't see,
invading our brains.
One of them could be among us
right now.
One of them could be leaving
this church right now.
Somebody get a doctor.
- Is he all right?
- Call an ambulance!
Are you okay?
I saw... another one.
You were right.
He can see us.
It's called an astrocytoma.
What is that?
A tumor the size of a golf ball.
Right here.
Dr. Pallas gives me
three months, tops.
There are treatments.
I mean, can't this Dr. Pallas
recommend anything?
Chemotherapy,
something experimental?
He recommended prayer,
something I used to be pretty good at.
You can fight this.
It's bad enough to be
questioning my faith.
Now I can't even believe
what I see.
What did you see?
Why were you shouting
at that woman?
I didn't think a hallucination
would be so clear.
It usually starts
like a fleeting image...
the sort of thing that you would see
out of the corner of your eye.
And then I look again.
I concentrate.
But they're still there-
the demons.
They don't go away.
Demons?
You mentioned this
to the doctor?
Yes, yes.
He warned me I might see some
horrible things from my unconscious.
Interpretive dementia, he said,
caused by the tumor.
Conditioned, no doubt, by five decades
of rigorous religious training.
The woman in the sanctuary-
She looked like a demon to you?
So did the policeman
in Trashtown.
The one Carlito was ranting about?
Yes.
My God.
I've got to go back there,
find Carlito.
Wait, wait. Wait a minute.
Are you saying that you and Carlito
had the same hallucination?
I don't know,
but I'm going to find out.
Anton, wait.
Is he-
Good Lord, forgive me.
I should never have
turned him away.
Don't do that to yourself.
This isn't your fault.
By the power of the apostles
he has given me...
I absolve you from all your sins...
in the name of the Father
and the Son...
and the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
Amen.
We should call the authorities.
You look a bit tired today,
Father Jonascu.
I was up early this morning.
Buried one of my parishioners.
Coroner said he died
of an embolism.
Thirty-five years old.
We both see too much death,
don't we?
Any sensitivity to this light?
Yes, a little.
Doctor, I wanted to ask you more
about these... episodes.
The hallucinations?
Do they frighten you?
They're unsettling.
Yet, in a strange way...
they've made me
wake up to some things.
That's wonderful.
What was it you wanted to ask me?
Is it possible that another person...
could have the same visions that I do?
Is there a medical explanation?
What person are you referring to?
The young m-
I thought we agreed- no drugs.
This is just something for the pain.
But my head must be clear
at all time-
This will clarify everything.
Now, you should be feeling
a very pleasant, relaxed sensation.
- I can hardly move.
- Good.
Good. Don't fight it. Enjoy it.
What have you done?
Since you are a religious man,
I know you will forgive me.
The drug I gave you...
induces a temporary paralysis
of gross motor control.
There are some...
associates of mine outside...
who are eager to make
your acquaintance.
I didn't want you to leave
before you met them.
- Why would I do that?
- I was concerned you'd be scared.
But now I know that you're
a much stronger man than that.
Holy Mother of God.
It's-
They're the-
the demons.
Perhaps that's the wrong word...
to describe us.
In God's name, how can this be?
You seemed alarmed
at our appearance, Father.
We can maintain this more conventional
facade, if you prefer...
much like projecting holograms.
It's just very draining for us.
- Who are you?
- We are the way.
No. You are deceivers.
I know the true way.
We've come at various times.
All your religions are based on teachings
from our world.
Are you telling me...
that you're some kind
of messenger from God?
Yes.
And now, through you,
we have a second chance.
How is it I can see
your other faces?
We're not sure, but we think
your tumor made it possible.
That was our sign
that you were the chosen one.
What about Carlito?
How did he see you?
Carlito had a neurological mutation...
brought on by genetics
and his use of narcotics.
We tried to save him...
but he was too afraid
to let us near him.
This is taking too long.
- Silence!
- Father...
we have come to deliver
the power to heal...
to your world and your people.
But mankind won't accept us
as we are.
They look at us as demons
because of our appearance.
That's why we need you, Father-
to help us relieve the fear
our visage causes in human hearts.
Only then can we give you the gift.
What gift?
I'm going to heal your tumor, Father...
and then you too will have the gift.
Is she dead?
She gave you her life force.
She had to...
in order to give you the gift.
I still don't understand.
What do you want from me?
I'll show you.
Thank you, Nurse.
I'll take her back to her room.
Father Jonascu, meet Miranda.
A reckless driver ignored a traffic signal
in front of her school.
She has massive internal injuries...
and it's not known
if she will ever wake up again.
Poor child.
Now it's time
to exercise your powers.
Come, Father.
Place your hands on her temples, just as
Victorine did to you in my office...
and concentrate.
Will her back to health.
You can do it, Father.
Could such a power-
the power of life and death-
be anything other than a gift from God?
It was truly miraculous.
But you were the instrument
of that miracle.
You were the one who made it happen!
- The press is here.
- That's him, right there!
The press?
People are going to want to know
what you have done...
what you're capable of doing.
I wouldn't know what to say.
We have faith in you, Father.
Good evening, ladies and gentlemen.
Good evening.
Please, please, not all at once.
Could we have questions
in some kind of order?
Well, the most extraordinary thing
has happened here today.
It's now been a month
since the miracle priest...
Father Anton Jonascu
of St. Devra's church...
first moved through this clinic...
healing the sick and infirm
in a matter ofhours.
Since then, requests for help have
poured in from all over the world.
But despite a busy travel schedule...
Jonascu says he'll remain here...
working his apparent miracles
in our own community.
Thank you, John.
I hate watching myself on television.
- The calls keep coming in.
- I see.
The archdiocese again.
Mercy Hospital.
Gateway Communications.
They want me to revive
my radio ministry.
I just don't think I have the time.
Maybe you should get an agent.
You're a celebrity now.
A small price to pay
for the chance to do some good.
I know how busy you are,
so I prepared a sermon.
Thanks.
I'll conduct the service myself.
People come a long way to hear me.
- It's only fair.
- Right.
I'd better get ready.
You ever wonder, Anton,
why won't these messengers...
who've appeared to you as demons...
allow you to reveal
how you came by your gift?
They will.
When will that be?
They don't control me, John.
They gave me the power to heal.
They simply want to present it in a way
that will do the most good...
without people judging
what they don't understand.
- But you understand.
- Yes.
Why is it every time you perform
your miracles the press is around?
Of course the media would be
interested in my story.
Even that first night at the clinic,
somehow they knew.
Who do you think told them?
Well, a month ago,
you were losing your faith.
You were ready to walk away.
And thank heavens I was given a sign-
confirmation that I could do some good.
Well, isn't it possible
that's why they chose you-
because you would be susceptible
to their pitch?
Is it because I won't let you
conduct the service this evening?
- Is that why you're so unhappy?
- You just don't get it.
I have always admired your ability...
to see goodness
where it wasn't apparent.
What's happened to that?
What about your questioning mind?
You've always taught me
never to accept things at face value...
but to push and to probe
until I got the truth.
I know when you meet
these people face-to-face...
your prejudice will just disappear.
Until then, focus on results.
Try taking it on faith
that I am delivering a divine gift.
Only one person ever did that
in my faith...
and he was the Son of God.
Ladies and gentlemen, please.
- Lights are okay?
- Father Anton Jonascu.
Good evening, ladies and gentlemen.
Father will answer all your questions
in the sanctuary.
Please, this way. Be careful.
For thine is the kingdom
and the power...
and the glory forever.
SweetJesus.
You are doing
so much good here now.
The time has almost come
for us to reveal ourselves.
Good! Good!
You said you wanted
to live among us.
How many of you are there?
How did you get here?
Be patient. Be patient.
All those questions will be answered.
We want you...
to call a worldwide press conference...
for Sunday.
Worldwide?
Very well.
Now, if you'll excuse me.
- First-
- Yes?
There is a slight problem.
LikeJesus of Galilee...
I'm afraid you might have a betrayer.
A-
You must admit. This is so much
smoother than the last foray.
You were right.
The priest is a much better choice.
We can infiltrate
without a confrontation.
How long do you think it will take
to siphon off all of their atmosphere?
It could take six years.
It has to go faster.
The home planet is running out.
But it must be done delicately.
They have strength and numbers.
So we have to continue
this charade forever.
Only until they suffocate to death.
Our great advantage is...
their belief in a loving
and benevolent God.
It is their one weakness-
their tragic flaw.
Belief in a loving God is
one of our greatest strengths.
Faith is why Carlito
brought these photos to us-
so that we could see
through your lies.
And it is faith that will open up
Father Jonascu's eyes.
Messengers of God?
Emissaries of hell
is what you are.
Actually...
we are emissaries from a planet
very far from here.
You can't win.
You can't deceive Anton forever.
We don't need to forever.
I look forward to this service.
Oh, my God.
- What happened here?
- He's dead.
How can this be?
I must call-
Before you act,
consider the consequences.
What consequences?
I must notify the police, John's parents.
This is a tragedy.
- He needs a decent burial.
- He'll have one.
You can make the arrangements,
but after the press conference.
- No!
- There are too many people here.
We are too far along to delay.
Officer Fletcher will take care of him.
Where were you?
Why did you let him die?
Unfortunately, I wasn't here.
It appears he had an embolism.
- Embolism?
- Yes.
That's what they said
killed Carlito.
Is it?
A coincidence, I'm sure.
Yes.
Yes.
Dr. Pallas, l-
You must excuse me.
I need some time alone...
to gather my thoughts
before the press conference.
Of course.
Call if you need anything.
You have my condolences.
The most extraordinary thing
has happened here today.
Tell us about it.
I have been given the power
to do God's work...
to heal the sick, to raise them.
How did you discover this power?
I don't know. I just did it.
What exactly did you do?
- There was this little girl-
- What have I done with it?
Who was very ill...
and I just wished she was better,
and she was.
And so the stage is almost set for
tomorrow's worldwide press conference...
where Father Anton Jonascu,
the miracle priest...
promises to reveal the source
ofhis incredible power.
Not since man first walked
on the moon...
has the world been so focused
on one event.
Affection forJonascu seems boundless...
and he's inspired new levels
of church attendance worldwide.
Medical science has no explanation...
for his incredible powers
over life and death.
This is Tamara Stanners
reporting live from St. Devra's church.
Powers...
over life and death.
Our freighter ships will enter
Earth orbit tonight.
They can avert this planet's primitive
detection systems for up to nine days.
Don't issue landing orders
until after the priest has done his job.
There'll be much discussion
among Earth leaders before we're accepted.
Without access to the ships
to recharge our power source...
we can't maintain human form
much longer.
My reserves are already low.
I'm having trouble
with my visual field.
Patience. Patience.
It's almost over.
She's supposed to be here.
You're late. Come.
I've been hiding in the shadows too long.
I'm anxious to be involved again.
No one has seen you, have they?
Of course not.
Not in my original form.
Excuse me.
I'm here to give last rites
to a FatherJohn Royce.
Nope. NoJohn Royce
in the box. Sorry.
But there has to be. Check again.
Please.
Hey, I know you.
You're that miracle priest dude.
What about a John Doe?
He would've been brought in this morning
by an Officer Fletcher.
That I can help you with.
Give us a moment, please.
Sure.
In nomine Patris et Filii
et Spiritus Sancti.
God forgive me for
what I'm about to do.
John, it's me, Anton.
Let's go inside and find out.
Come on.
It's almost time.
Where's your precious priest now?
He'll be here.
He knows what's at stake.
He has no idea.
What choice does he have
at this point?
He's a man of honor... and a fool.
Maybe you underestimate him.
You might be as naive as he is.
You have no faith, Fletcher.
- Here's the man we've been waiting for.
- Father!
We only have a few minutes left.
Let's go over your statement
one last time.
We don't need to.
I know what I have to say.
Shall we go over it anyway?
I have stood up here for over 30 years
and tried to speak from the heart...
at times, more successfully
than others.
But I have never lied
to my congregation.
I've never knowingly misled them.
No one wants you to do
anything of the kind.
Good. Because I won't.
Okay, everybody out of here.
Now! We need five minutes, please.
Let's go. Now! Come on!
Move, please!
Father Jonascu...
is something troubling you?
I know the way God works.
It is not your way.
You give life without love.
You heal the sick...
but you don't understand
human kindness.
Think.
Think of all the good
we can do together.
Look at what we've already done!
Through you,
in the name of your God.
You have committed murder
in his house.
You are evil in human disguise.
With God's help, we will fight you.
Your God won't help you now!
Wait. Wait!
You destroyed us.
You've destroyed everything.
You could've lived forever.
Do you think such power
comes to you at no cost?
Don't be swayed
the way I was swayed.
Tell them.
Tell the world.
My death...
must not be in vain.
I will.
From the dawn of time...
people have believed
that angels walk among us.
Some believe that demons
are also in our midst.
But who's to say exactly
what form either will take?
They could be your spouse,
your boss at work...
even the person sitting
with you... right now.
from St. Devra's.
- Here you are, Charlie. Come on.
- Who wants blankets?
- Nice to see you. Don't forget- 11:00.
- Blanket.
- See ya Sunday.
- I'll see you Sunday morning- early mass.
Blankets?
You're welcome.
- Just one sandwich.
- Thank you very much.
Blanket, anyone?
Blanket? Blanket?
See you Sunday.
Don't forget- Sunday morning.
Who wants blankets?
Who hasn't got a blanket?
I'm Father Jonascu from St. Devra's.
May I give you this blanket?
Please, for the child's sake?
Take it with my blessing.
God bless you.
God help them.
Who hasn't got a sandwich?
You got one?
Looking for water.
We'll see you Sunday morning?
This makes you just feel so great,
doesn't it, Father?
Why do we even bother, John?
You think one sandwich
will stop their hunger?
Well, it'll stop one person's hunger
for a little while.
It's a start.
- It's the police.
- The police!
- Hide!
- Everybody, run!
Move. Everyone, get out of here.
Quickly!
Come on. Riot formation.
Take the child to the shelter
on Fourth Street. Quickly!
- Let's go! Let's go!
- Run on. Run.
Clean 'em out!
Move 'em all out of here!
Let's round 'em all up!
Wait. Wait. Stop it! Stop it.
What're you doin'?
- Move! Move!
- In the name of God, stop this!
Clear this scum out of here!
Stop it!
No! No! Stop that!
- You all right, Father?
- I'm fine.
What is wrong with you people?
Let's get you out of here.
That's good advice, Father.
Anton?
Anton!
There is nothing wrong
with your television.
Do not attempt
to adjust the picture.
We are now controlling
the transmission.
We control
the horizontal...
and the vertical.
We can deluge you
with a thousand channels...
or expand one single image
to crystal clarity...
and beyond.
We can shape
your vision...
to anything
our imagination can conceive.
For the next hour...
we will control
all that you see and hear.
You are about to experience
the awe and mystery...
which reaches from
the deepest inner mind to...
The Outer Limits.
Let's get out of here!
In a world filled with darkness...
Father Anton Jonascu's faith has long been
a beacon oflight for those in need.
But now the good father
finds himself at a crossroads...
in danger oflosing his way.
I can't come back here, John.
The suffering, the futility-
It's starting to get to me.
L-
I feel like I'm losing my mind.
You can't give up hope.
Come on. Come on.
- You saw it, right, Father?
- What? What?
- I saw you see him!
- Carlito, stop that!
That guy-That cop-
I saw what you saw!
- I saw many horrible things.
- Well, this was different!
Carlito, listen.
Please try to calm down!
They think I'm crazy, but I'm not!
- That cop- He's no cop! I s-
- What? What-
You gotta tell someone!
He'll listen to you.
Tell them you saw the face of evil.
Listen, why don't you come back
to the church with us?
I got proof. I snuck up on him,
and I got proof.
I'm telling the truth.
I am the truth.
Poor soul.
- Let's go.
- Yes.
Let's get 'em out of here.
Come on. Move it! Move it!
Stop it!
I used to believe...
if I could save just one soul,
it would be enough.
I don't think
I believe that anymore.
That'll stop the bleeding.
You know, Anton, caffeine's probably not
the best thing for you right now.
You need to get some sleep.
You won't be in any shape to-
Say the evening mass.
Let me guess.
You want to say it for me.
Not tonight.
You can say it when I'm gone.
- Gone?
- Yes.
I'm thinking about asking the monsignor
for a reassignment-
someplace with children, laughter.
Anton, look, this is no time
to make that kind of decision.
You know, take some time off.
Our problems will still be here
when you get back.
Yes, that much I'm certain of.
Excuse me.
Are you Dr. Gidden's replacement?
I'm not sure if that's
the proper way of putting it...
but, yes, I'm taking his calls.
I was shocked to hear of his death.
I've been his patient
most of my adult life.
Yes, well, he was
a very good doctor.
You must be...
Father Jonascu.
Yes.
Well, come in. Come in.
I'm afraid I've found the cause of
the visual anomalies you've experienced.
I assume it's because
I've been working too hard...
drinking too much coffee.
The stress has been relentless.
I'm afraid it's not that simple.
This gray mass on the MRI
is a malignant tumor.
Because of its proximity
to the cerebellum...
I'm afraid it's inoperable.
I'm very sorry.
That's not possible.
I'm- I'm-
I mean, I was fine until l-
My God.
Father Jonascu?
Carlito.
How are you feeling?
I'm okay. I'm straight.
I haven't used nothing in two days.
That's wonderful, Carlito.
If you'll excuse me.
I'm sorry for goin' crazy.
I'm not long for this world, Father.
I want to make my confession.
I can't just now. I simply can't.
It wouldn't be fair to you.
Perhaps Father Royce.
No, it has to be you...
'cause you're the only one
who'll understand.
Then it'll have to wait.
I don't have time, man.
'Cause my days are numbered.
I got proof.
Carlito, wait. Wait!
I called the clinic.
They said you left hours ago.
So, what's the verdict?
The clinic-The doctors-
What did they have to say?
You know how it is
with these doctors.
He needs to do more tests.
What, they couldn't
tell you anything?
What about your headaches?
You were probably right.
I work too hard...
and I worry about too many things.
Amen to that.
All of us go through life
sheltering ourselves from reality...
because, when we go out
into the world...
we hear the sound of people suffering...
and we see the world around us
is not pretty.
We see the homeless
and the hungry...
crying out for our attention.
Yet we avert our eyes...
hardening our hearts
to their pleas.
We read Christ's words,
but fail to heed them.
We-
Look within, each of you...
and ask yourself...
am I helping my fellow man...
or am I lost, all alone?
Strive to-
- Is he okay?
- Strive to-
to work as one-
Are you okay?
Look. There, near the back-
What do you see?
I see a woman
I don't recognize.
- What do you see?
- I see a-
a woman-just a woman.
Can you get through
the rest of the service?
With God's help.
A moment ago...
I spoke...
of the very small tragedies
of our day-to-day lives...
the monstrous evils
of poverty and despair.
But what of the real evils
in our midst-
the ones that look like us...
but aren't us?
The deceivers-
like viruses we can't see,
invading our brains.
One of them could be among us
right now.
One of them could be leaving
this church right now.
Somebody get a doctor.
- Is he all right?
- Call an ambulance!
Are you okay?
I saw... another one.
You were right.
He can see us.
It's called an astrocytoma.
What is that?
A tumor the size of a golf ball.
Right here.
Dr. Pallas gives me
three months, tops.
There are treatments.
I mean, can't this Dr. Pallas
recommend anything?
Chemotherapy,
something experimental?
He recommended prayer,
something I used to be pretty good at.
You can fight this.
It's bad enough to be
questioning my faith.
Now I can't even believe
what I see.
What did you see?
Why were you shouting
at that woman?
I didn't think a hallucination
would be so clear.
It usually starts
like a fleeting image...
the sort of thing that you would see
out of the corner of your eye.
And then I look again.
I concentrate.
But they're still there-
the demons.
They don't go away.
Demons?
You mentioned this
to the doctor?
Yes, yes.
He warned me I might see some
horrible things from my unconscious.
Interpretive dementia, he said,
caused by the tumor.
Conditioned, no doubt, by five decades
of rigorous religious training.
The woman in the sanctuary-
She looked like a demon to you?
So did the policeman
in Trashtown.
The one Carlito was ranting about?
Yes.
My God.
I've got to go back there,
find Carlito.
Wait, wait. Wait a minute.
Are you saying that you and Carlito
had the same hallucination?
I don't know,
but I'm going to find out.
Anton, wait.
Is he-
Good Lord, forgive me.
I should never have
turned him away.
Don't do that to yourself.
This isn't your fault.
By the power of the apostles
he has given me...
I absolve you from all your sins...
in the name of the Father
and the Son...
and the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
Amen.
We should call the authorities.
You look a bit tired today,
Father Jonascu.
I was up early this morning.
Buried one of my parishioners.
Coroner said he died
of an embolism.
Thirty-five years old.
We both see too much death,
don't we?
Any sensitivity to this light?
Yes, a little.
Doctor, I wanted to ask you more
about these... episodes.
The hallucinations?
Do they frighten you?
They're unsettling.
Yet, in a strange way...
they've made me
wake up to some things.
That's wonderful.
What was it you wanted to ask me?
Is it possible that another person...
could have the same visions that I do?
Is there a medical explanation?
What person are you referring to?
The young m-
I thought we agreed- no drugs.
This is just something for the pain.
But my head must be clear
at all time-
This will clarify everything.
Now, you should be feeling
a very pleasant, relaxed sensation.
- I can hardly move.
- Good.
Good. Don't fight it. Enjoy it.
What have you done?
Since you are a religious man,
I know you will forgive me.
The drug I gave you...
induces a temporary paralysis
of gross motor control.
There are some...
associates of mine outside...
who are eager to make
your acquaintance.
I didn't want you to leave
before you met them.
- Why would I do that?
- I was concerned you'd be scared.
But now I know that you're
a much stronger man than that.
Holy Mother of God.
It's-
They're the-
the demons.
Perhaps that's the wrong word...
to describe us.
In God's name, how can this be?
You seemed alarmed
at our appearance, Father.
We can maintain this more conventional
facade, if you prefer...
much like projecting holograms.
It's just very draining for us.
- Who are you?
- We are the way.
No. You are deceivers.
I know the true way.
We've come at various times.
All your religions are based on teachings
from our world.
Are you telling me...
that you're some kind
of messenger from God?
Yes.
And now, through you,
we have a second chance.
How is it I can see
your other faces?
We're not sure, but we think
your tumor made it possible.
That was our sign
that you were the chosen one.
What about Carlito?
How did he see you?
Carlito had a neurological mutation...
brought on by genetics
and his use of narcotics.
We tried to save him...
but he was too afraid
to let us near him.
This is taking too long.
- Silence!
- Father...
we have come to deliver
the power to heal...
to your world and your people.
But mankind won't accept us
as we are.
They look at us as demons
because of our appearance.
That's why we need you, Father-
to help us relieve the fear
our visage causes in human hearts.
Only then can we give you the gift.
What gift?
I'm going to heal your tumor, Father...
and then you too will have the gift.
Is she dead?
She gave you her life force.
She had to...
in order to give you the gift.
I still don't understand.
What do you want from me?
I'll show you.
Thank you, Nurse.
I'll take her back to her room.
Father Jonascu, meet Miranda.
A reckless driver ignored a traffic signal
in front of her school.
She has massive internal injuries...
and it's not known
if she will ever wake up again.
Poor child.
Now it's time
to exercise your powers.
Come, Father.
Place your hands on her temples, just as
Victorine did to you in my office...
and concentrate.
Will her back to health.
You can do it, Father.
Could such a power-
the power of life and death-
be anything other than a gift from God?
It was truly miraculous.
But you were the instrument
of that miracle.
You were the one who made it happen!
- The press is here.
- That's him, right there!
The press?
People are going to want to know
what you have done...
what you're capable of doing.
I wouldn't know what to say.
We have faith in you, Father.
Good evening, ladies and gentlemen.
Good evening.
Please, please, not all at once.
Could we have questions
in some kind of order?
Well, the most extraordinary thing
has happened here today.
It's now been a month
since the miracle priest...
Father Anton Jonascu
of St. Devra's church...
first moved through this clinic...
healing the sick and infirm
in a matter ofhours.
Since then, requests for help have
poured in from all over the world.
But despite a busy travel schedule...
Jonascu says he'll remain here...
working his apparent miracles
in our own community.
Thank you, John.
I hate watching myself on television.
- The calls keep coming in.
- I see.
The archdiocese again.
Mercy Hospital.
Gateway Communications.
They want me to revive
my radio ministry.
I just don't think I have the time.
Maybe you should get an agent.
You're a celebrity now.
A small price to pay
for the chance to do some good.
I know how busy you are,
so I prepared a sermon.
Thanks.
I'll conduct the service myself.
People come a long way to hear me.
- It's only fair.
- Right.
I'd better get ready.
You ever wonder, Anton,
why won't these messengers...
who've appeared to you as demons...
allow you to reveal
how you came by your gift?
They will.
When will that be?
They don't control me, John.
They gave me the power to heal.
They simply want to present it in a way
that will do the most good...
without people judging
what they don't understand.
- But you understand.
- Yes.
Why is it every time you perform
your miracles the press is around?
Of course the media would be
interested in my story.
Even that first night at the clinic,
somehow they knew.
Who do you think told them?
Well, a month ago,
you were losing your faith.
You were ready to walk away.
And thank heavens I was given a sign-
confirmation that I could do some good.
Well, isn't it possible
that's why they chose you-
because you would be susceptible
to their pitch?
Is it because I won't let you
conduct the service this evening?
- Is that why you're so unhappy?
- You just don't get it.
I have always admired your ability...
to see goodness
where it wasn't apparent.
What's happened to that?
What about your questioning mind?
You've always taught me
never to accept things at face value...
but to push and to probe
until I got the truth.
I know when you meet
these people face-to-face...
your prejudice will just disappear.
Until then, focus on results.
Try taking it on faith
that I am delivering a divine gift.
Only one person ever did that
in my faith...
and he was the Son of God.
Ladies and gentlemen, please.
- Lights are okay?
- Father Anton Jonascu.
Good evening, ladies and gentlemen.
Father will answer all your questions
in the sanctuary.
Please, this way. Be careful.
For thine is the kingdom
and the power...
and the glory forever.
SweetJesus.
You are doing
so much good here now.
The time has almost come
for us to reveal ourselves.
Good! Good!
You said you wanted
to live among us.
How many of you are there?
How did you get here?
Be patient. Be patient.
All those questions will be answered.
We want you...
to call a worldwide press conference...
for Sunday.
Worldwide?
Very well.
Now, if you'll excuse me.
- First-
- Yes?
There is a slight problem.
LikeJesus of Galilee...
I'm afraid you might have a betrayer.
A-
You must admit. This is so much
smoother than the last foray.
You were right.
The priest is a much better choice.
We can infiltrate
without a confrontation.
How long do you think it will take
to siphon off all of their atmosphere?
It could take six years.
It has to go faster.
The home planet is running out.
But it must be done delicately.
They have strength and numbers.
So we have to continue
this charade forever.
Only until they suffocate to death.
Our great advantage is...
their belief in a loving
and benevolent God.
It is their one weakness-
their tragic flaw.
Belief in a loving God is
one of our greatest strengths.
Faith is why Carlito
brought these photos to us-
so that we could see
through your lies.
And it is faith that will open up
Father Jonascu's eyes.
Messengers of God?
Emissaries of hell
is what you are.
Actually...
we are emissaries from a planet
very far from here.
You can't win.
You can't deceive Anton forever.
We don't need to forever.
I look forward to this service.
Oh, my God.
- What happened here?
- He's dead.
How can this be?
I must call-
Before you act,
consider the consequences.
What consequences?
I must notify the police, John's parents.
This is a tragedy.
- He needs a decent burial.
- He'll have one.
You can make the arrangements,
but after the press conference.
- No!
- There are too many people here.
We are too far along to delay.
Officer Fletcher will take care of him.
Where were you?
Why did you let him die?
Unfortunately, I wasn't here.
It appears he had an embolism.
- Embolism?
- Yes.
That's what they said
killed Carlito.
Is it?
A coincidence, I'm sure.
Yes.
Yes.
Dr. Pallas, l-
You must excuse me.
I need some time alone...
to gather my thoughts
before the press conference.
Of course.
Call if you need anything.
You have my condolences.
The most extraordinary thing
has happened here today.
Tell us about it.
I have been given the power
to do God's work...
to heal the sick, to raise them.
How did you discover this power?
I don't know. I just did it.
What exactly did you do?
- There was this little girl-
- What have I done with it?
Who was very ill...
and I just wished she was better,
and she was.
And so the stage is almost set for
tomorrow's worldwide press conference...
where Father Anton Jonascu,
the miracle priest...
promises to reveal the source
ofhis incredible power.
Not since man first walked
on the moon...
has the world been so focused
on one event.
Affection forJonascu seems boundless...
and he's inspired new levels
of church attendance worldwide.
Medical science has no explanation...
for his incredible powers
over life and death.
This is Tamara Stanners
reporting live from St. Devra's church.
Powers...
over life and death.
Our freighter ships will enter
Earth orbit tonight.
They can avert this planet's primitive
detection systems for up to nine days.
Don't issue landing orders
until after the priest has done his job.
There'll be much discussion
among Earth leaders before we're accepted.
Without access to the ships
to recharge our power source...
we can't maintain human form
much longer.
My reserves are already low.
I'm having trouble
with my visual field.
Patience. Patience.
It's almost over.
She's supposed to be here.
You're late. Come.
I've been hiding in the shadows too long.
I'm anxious to be involved again.
No one has seen you, have they?
Of course not.
Not in my original form.
Excuse me.
I'm here to give last rites
to a FatherJohn Royce.
Nope. NoJohn Royce
in the box. Sorry.
But there has to be. Check again.
Please.
Hey, I know you.
You're that miracle priest dude.
What about a John Doe?
He would've been brought in this morning
by an Officer Fletcher.
That I can help you with.
Give us a moment, please.
Sure.
In nomine Patris et Filii
et Spiritus Sancti.
God forgive me for
what I'm about to do.
John, it's me, Anton.
Let's go inside and find out.
Come on.
It's almost time.
Where's your precious priest now?
He'll be here.
He knows what's at stake.
He has no idea.
What choice does he have
at this point?
He's a man of honor... and a fool.
Maybe you underestimate him.
You might be as naive as he is.
You have no faith, Fletcher.
- Here's the man we've been waiting for.
- Father!
We only have a few minutes left.
Let's go over your statement
one last time.
We don't need to.
I know what I have to say.
Shall we go over it anyway?
I have stood up here for over 30 years
and tried to speak from the heart...
at times, more successfully
than others.
But I have never lied
to my congregation.
I've never knowingly misled them.
No one wants you to do
anything of the kind.
Good. Because I won't.
Okay, everybody out of here.
Now! We need five minutes, please.
Let's go. Now! Come on!
Move, please!
Father Jonascu...
is something troubling you?
I know the way God works.
It is not your way.
You give life without love.
You heal the sick...
but you don't understand
human kindness.
Think.
Think of all the good
we can do together.
Look at what we've already done!
Through you,
in the name of your God.
You have committed murder
in his house.
You are evil in human disguise.
With God's help, we will fight you.
Your God won't help you now!
Wait. Wait!
You destroyed us.
You've destroyed everything.
You could've lived forever.
Do you think such power
comes to you at no cost?
Don't be swayed
the way I was swayed.
Tell them.
Tell the world.
My death...
must not be in vain.
I will.
From the dawn of time...
people have believed
that angels walk among us.
Some believe that demons
are also in our midst.
But who's to say exactly
what form either will take?
They could be your spouse,
your boss at work...
even the person sitting
with you... right now.