The Outer Limits (1963–1965): Season 2, Episode 15 - The Brain of Colonel Barham - full transcript
A dying astronaut volunteers his mind be linked to a supercomputer, to enable the U.S. to beat the Soviet Union to Mars. His wife and an Air Force psychiatrist oppose the brain removal, fearing that the arrogant spaceman's brain won't adapt, making his death futile. But the Cold War space race takes precedence, so the experiment proceeds, despite eerie developments.
With the
world growing more crowded,
the great powers strive
to conquer other planets.
The race is on.
The interplanetary sea
has already been charted.
The first caravel of space
is being constructed.
Who will get there first?
Who will be the new Columbus?
In 10 seconds,
gentlemen,
the problem will be
changed in midstream.
You've made your point.
It's no contest.
The human brain
can't match a computer.
Watch.
One of the symbols
has been subtracted.
Now, we shall see.
Well, how can they complete
their patterns?
That, General,
is their problem.
Not a fair test,
Housner.
The computer isn't
programmed for that.
Neither is
Colonel Barham.
Colonel Barham,
you're pattern
does not conform.
There was a malfunction.
I had to improvise.
Elaborate, please.
Brownboyd key was jammed up.
Closest approximation was the
rectangle symbol which I substituted,
and if this is the kind
of equipment
you're sending into space,
I am relieved not to be going!
Gentlemen,
I'll not apologize
for Colonel Barham's conduct.
In addition to being
a sick man,
he was also properly incensed.
It wasn't a realistic test,
General.
Can any of us predict the
problems of landing on Mars?
No.
Then how can you program
a machine for the unknown?
Only the human mind
is able to adjust
to... toward the unexpected
emergencies.
Providing your space man
was still alive.
And he wouldn't be.
Man or machine, you can't
have it both ways.
I disagree, General.
Why not Mr. Nichols' computer
activated by a human brain?
Now, what kind
of nonsense is that?
Doctor Rahm has already done it
with a brain of a chimpanzee.
Naturally, we'd want a brain
already highly trained
in space technology.
Perhaps, you'd like
to volunteer for the mission?
I was thinking
of Colonel Barham.
Colonel Barham?
His disease is incurable.
It's in a terminal
stage, isn't it?
What would he lose?
At best 6 months.
And his brain.
Just the opposite,
General.
His brain would be saved,
perhaps forever.
Only the diseased, worn-out
body would be discarded.
Speaking psychologically,
Mr. Housner,
I think you've just given
that brain a traumatic shock.
There is nothing
wrong with your television set.
Do not attempt
to adjust the picture.
We are controlling
transmission.
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 inner mind to.
The outer limits.
You'd be no worse off
in the city, Alec,
and there are so many things
you can still enjoy.
Are you volunteering to look
after me in my declining days?
Yes.
I am.
"In sickness
and in health..."
You took your marriage vows more
seriously than I ever took mine.
That isn't why
I said that.
You couldn't still be
in love with me.
And I don't need pity.
Thanks for the offer,
but I'll stay here.
It all seems
so terribly lonesome.
Oh, I manage
to keep busy.
There are jobs
I can still do here.
They have use for my
brain if nothing else.
And how they
want to use it.
What do you mean, Alec?
They'd like me to volunteer
for a mission.
In your condition?
They have no right
to ask anything.
Well, they haven't yet.
But it bugs them.
It really bugs them.
All the time and money
invested to put me on Mars.
Instead, it all goes
into a 6-foot hole.
Don't, Alec, please.
I'm so terribly sorry.
Why me?
Why do I have to die with a
world full of useless slobs?
Alec...
Relax, Colonel.
General, I think
you know my wife.
Of course. Nice to see
you again, Jennifer.
Hello.
And Major McKinnon,
our twitch doctor.
How do you do?
Hello, Mrs. Barham.
I have something very serious to
discuss with your husband, Jennifer.
I think you should
hear it, too.
If it's all the same with you, General,
I'd prefer to keep it within the service.
Very well.
What is it, Alec?
Why can't I hear?
It doesn't concern you.
Mrs. Barham, would you
care for some coffee?
Well, you know
what it is, Alec.
I'm sorry you had
to hear it that way.
But that's Housner.
He builds the most
sophisticated space craft yet
and can't remember
to turn off an intercom.
This will be mostly
Dr. Rahm's project.
They ran some film
on the computer
activated by
the chimp's brain.
It works.
The chimp was drafted, sir.
This machine will have
eyes, ears, and a voice.
It will see Mars
and all the other planets
of the solar system.
It will never be bothered
by heat or by cold
or lack of atmosphere.
It will never be hungry
or thirsty, or feel pain.
And it may be immortal.
Tell me something,
General.
How would I do
with pretty girls?
How are you doing now?
How long have you
been married, Mrs. Barham?
8 years.
6 on active service.
And you're, uh,
you're not divorced?
No.
Forgive me, Mrs. Barham,
it's not merely curiosity.
You see, I have to understand
more about your husband...
To complete his record,
of course.
Major, you're
the psychologist.
Why don't you
explain him to me?
Well, I could tell you he was
a highly capable astronaut
with a superior mind,
perfect reflexes,
and an unfaltering
self-confidence.
Nothing there I dispute.
Very admirable traits.
But where's the balance?
Balance?
Do you mean
his weaknesses?
Excuse me.
Major McKinnon.
Yes, sir.
That's very interesting.
No, no, sir, I can't
really say I'm surprised.
Yes, sir, I'll...
I'll do it
if you wish.
Major?
Yes, Mrs. Barham.
Oh, uh, some more coffee.
No.
I want some information.
Well, you know, it's...
It's classified.
General Pettit had no objections
to my knowing about it.
Why can't you tell me?
Mrs. Barham.
Mrs. Barham,
putting the first man on Mars
will be a tremendous...
A tremendous gamble.
By sending a robot first,
it's hoped to obtain
enough knowledge to...
Well...
Let's say reduce the odds.
That's elementary enough,
even for me.
The only trouble is
no machine can be programmed
for unknown problems.
Only the human brain is capable
of adapting. So it was decided...
Let me guess, Major.
So, they want to send an
astronaut who's expendable.
Somebody who's going
to die anyway?
No, not exactly.
The astronaut probably
wouldn't live long enough
to transmit any
useful information.
Oh!
I'm sorry
I jumped ahead.
The ideal solution would be...
A machine...
And the human brain.
Only the brain.
You can't be serious?
Is that what they want
Alec to volunteer for?
His brain?
He hasn't many days to live,
you must know that.
Do you mean you
approve of this?
No.
Oh, no.
But probably
for different reasons.
We know little enough
about the human mind
under so called
"normal conditions."
Well, they'll have
to get someone else.
Alec would never
volunteer for it.
That was the General
who called.
The operation's set
for a week from Wednesday.
Why?
Why would he do it?
Do you remember the old fable
about the blind men
trying to describe
an elephant
by the part
they were touching?
Yes.
Does it apply here?
General Pettit is a blind man.
He thinks I volunteered
out of patriotism,
dedication to the service.
Well, that's
a soldier's viewpoint.
Then take Dr. Rahm.
He sees it
as good common sense.
I was going to die anyway,
why not gamble?
Weren't there
3 blind men?
Housner.
To him it's
intellectual curiosity.
I think he envies me.
You're not taking
notes, Major.
Let me get
below the surface.
You see, you're the only one
with eyes,
and still, you can't see
the obvious.
You keep looking
in dusty corners.
If I could get some light
into those corners, Colonel,
what would I find?
Dust.
Not egotism?
That must have been
a searching conversation
you had with my wife
this afternoon.
Why did you refuse
to see her again?
She is opposed to this
operation, isn't she?
Very strongly.
Yes, well...
It does complicate things,
don't you see?
She doesn't believe
in divorce.
And now that my mind
might live forever,
where does that leave her?
No one's forcing me, Major.
I want to do this.
I won't see you again
until after the operation.
You think it's going
to fail, don't you?
Dr. Rahm wouldn't attempt it
unless he thought
it would be successful.
What worries me is the
kind of mind you'll have.
Brilliant.
Distinguished.
Incomparable.
Profound.
Or would you prefer
infinite?
Colonel, I'd settle
for human.
Well, we ought
to know soon.
Housner?
Rahm's confident.
So we'll wait and see.
Read your report
last night, Major.
Didn't help me sleep
any better.
I wish I could have been
more optimistic, sir.
Seemed to me the brain
would be released.
In time, it might even develop
into a super intellect.
All the knowledge of the
universe in a single mind.
And all minor gods step
back one pace.
General Pettit.
A very brave man.
Well, how did
it go, doctor?
The brain seems to be reacting
favorably to its new environment.
But of course,
its still unconscious.
So we won't know until
we awaken it at 4:00.
Thank you, doctor.
Now, as you can
see, the encephalogram.
Is registering
normal brain activity
in a sleeping state.
By stepping up
the electrical current,
I'll bring it
to full consciousness.
Isn't that too soon
after the operation?
Why?
He'll feel no pain,
no weakness.
Of course, I forgot.
Bring it to 15 micros.
Dial reads 15 micros.
Recording increased
activity, doctor.
Some activity
in the motor area.
Unusual amount,
wouldn't you say, doctor?
Apparently, the brain
is trying to move.
Move? Move what?
There's no body?
The brain
doesn't realize that yet.
Should calm down shortly.
You performed the same experiment
on the brain of a chimpanzee.
Did its motor area
become quiescent?
The cases
are hardly similar.
You cannot communicate
with a chimp.
The problem can be explained
to Colonel Barham's brain.
That's your field, Major.
Yes, sir.
But I'd still like to know
what happened to the energy generated
by the chimp's motor area.
There was an overload
in the brain.
They lied to me.
They said
there would be no pain.
Colonel?
This is Dr. Rahm.
Can you hear me?
I feel pain.
Quick!
Put it back under!
Nurse, I want something
for my pain.
Give me...
Shock.
Doctor,
Mr. Housner, Major,
my office, 2 hours.
Mrs. Barham.
Oh.
I was just coming
to see you.
Well, the General's
called a briefing.
Could you walk along
with me?
I've just been
to see Alec.
Oh, no, not that...
Machine.
I won't go near it.
He looked very natural.
All the pain lines
were smoothed out.
The way he used to look.
I'm sorry.
Why should you be?
Well, it's awkward.
Do I offer my sympathy or...
As far as I'm concerned,
Alec is dead.
Whatever they've
got in there...
That whatever...
It's not right, Major.
It's not right.
On the other hand,
future generations
may all be hybrids:
Half machine,
half human.
Last week
you agreed with me,
for different reasons,
you said.
Yes.
Well, I... I
wasn't satisfied with...
I... I didn't think
it would work.
Were you right?
Has it worked?
It's too soon to tell.
That's what
the briefing's about.
All right.
I'll wait.
Mrs. Barham,
I have no idea how
long this will take.
I'm a patient woman,
Major.
Gentlemen,
all I'm asking for
is a critical evaluation.
Major, you're late.
Mrs. Barham
is on the base, sir.
Oh, I see.
All right, doctor.
There's no question
that the brain is
experiencing pain reactions.
Wave patterns
indicate that.
So did Colonel Barham.
But only in the
man's encephalon.
In my opinion, General,
it's illusionary.
Psychosomatic,
in a sense.
Doctor, I'm a soldier.
Don't give me all that
technical gobbledygook.
Major?
I think what Dr. Rahm
is saying is
that the motor stations
are still receiving stimuli.
A common parallel would be a patient
insisting he has pain in his toes
long after that leg
had been amputated.
Sensation disappears
in time.
Psychiatric treatment
might speed it up.
Do you agree?
Well, in normal
circumstances, yes.
The circumstances
are unique.
The genius of Dr. Rahm
and the one brain in the world
perfectly suited to our needs
at the same time.
It will never happen again.
That's no guarantee
of success.
Major McKinnon...
You've had a negative
attitude from the start.
Now, what in the world
is bothering you?
General...
The human brain
is an intricate mechanism.
It responds
to instinctual drives
which are adjusted or censored
by the conscious mind.
Discipline, that's all.
Well, call it
what you like, sir.
It's the difference between
a civilized man and a savage.
My point is that
this inhibiting force
is partially connected
with the body.
With the development
of physical identity
and physical needs
and satisfactions,
and, yes, disappointments.
The brain still sees
and hears.
But it's been deprived
of taste, touch, smell,
vibration, heat and cold.
It's already manifesting
hallucinatory tendencies.
What other abnormal
behaviors may develop?
Well, suppose you tell us.
Sir, I can't.
I don't know.
Subconscious drives
may be released.
The discipline
could simply collapse.
And for someone
who's an egocentric,
it wouldn't take much
to do it!
No.
In my opinion,
Colonel Barham was the wrong
choice for this experiment.
He was the only choice!
Then we should
have waited!
We couldn't wait, Major.
We're in a race.
We have to gamble
to gain a year or 2.
We must succeed
with this brain.
And that, Major,
is your assignment.
I don't know, Major, I'm
getting a better reading, now.
And he says the pain
isn't so bad.
He's been awake?
Yeah, talking
his head off.
Well, you know
what I mean.
Who authorized this?
Nobody. I didn't
turn up the juice.
He just came out of it
by himself.
Don't ask me
to explain it, Major,
but... but this clock reads
10 micros above the input.
Now, I've checked
all the circuits.
He's not getting it
from outside.
Major.
It can hear us,
you know.
Has Dr. Rahm been informed?
I'm waiting for him
to call back.
Been going up steadily
in the last hour.
At this rate it will operate
on its own power by morning.
When did Dr. Rahm
figure this would happen?
Oh, a minimum
of 10 days.
Major, how many micros
do you think it will go up?
I have no idea.
Why?
Just wondering.
Colonel Barham?
Can you hear me?
Loud and clear, Major.
How do you feel?
Isn't that
a non-technical question?
I don't feel at all,
I just think.
You complained earlier
of severe pain.
All imagination.
As a psychiatrist, you
ought to know about that.
As long as you understand it, there
doesn't seem to be any problem.
Problems, Major?
That's only for mortals.
Would you like
to discuss yours?
I could help you,
you know.
Why don't you tell me
all about it?
It's really nothing
to be ashamed of.
Just start talking.
It will make you feel
much better.
You, uh,
reversed the situation
very neatly.
You're closer to the truth
than you realize, Major.
Think about it.
I certainly will.
Good night.
Wait.
Has Jennifer been told?
Yes.
She's here now
making the...
The arrangements.
Tell her to visit me.
I don't think that's a...
A good idea.
I didn't ask
for opinions, Major.
I got the feeling she'd rather
remember you the other way.
She refuses to come?
Yes.
I'm sorry. I... I'll give her
any message, but...
Well...
Once she's had a chance
to adjust.
Nichols?
Right here.
Close the door, Nichols.
Close it!
Just take it easy.
Is there a guard outside?
Yes.
Come closer.
Mrs. Barham refused to
come here, you heard that?
Answer me!
Yes!
Yes, I heard.
Get her to me, Nichols.
I don't know where she is.
Do as you're told!
She's on the base. Find
her and bring her here.
Don't argue with her,
just bring her.
Look, I can't do that!
But I'll get Dr. Rahm.
I don't know why
you're upset, Major.
How can you consider the progress
as anything but encouraging?
Because there are indications that
the brain is becoming disassociated.
Oh.
And what form
is it taking?
Delusions of grandeur,
for one.
Delusions, Major?
Colonel Barham
has achieved grandeur.
But we'll watch him.
We'll watch it closely.
Major?
Oh, I'm sorry,
I thought it...
What is it?
What do you want?
Leave me alone!
Leave me alone!
Help!
Help!
Help!
Jennifer. Jennifer,
are you hurt?
Did he hurt you?
No! No!
Oh, Major!
Nichols?
Mrs. Barham,
what in the world happened?
I don't know!
He was like a maniac!
There. It's all right.
It's all right.
I want Dr. Rahm
to look at you.
This is Major McKinnon,
get me the O.D., fast!
And page Dr. Rahm.
Well, I can't
understand Nichols.
He's always been
a steady citizen.
A wife and 2 children.
Don't you test these people?
Nichols' profile shows
no aberrant tendencies, sir.
Is she all right?
Nothing but shock.
I gave her a sedative.
A day in bed
and she'll be fine.
Well, keep her here
as long as necessary
and give her anything
she wants.
Now, what about Nichols?
A little groggy, yet.
What did you
hit him with?
Just my fist.
Did he give you
any explanation?
No, uh, claims he can't
remember a thing.
I don't think
he believes he did it.
Well, he had to be drunk.
There's no other explanation.
Well, then, Major McKinnon's
going to have to find one,
Nichols hadn't had
a drink.
Doctor,
how's the brain?
You'd called me before I
finished my examination. Why?
If you're going back
to the laboratory now,
I'd like
to come along.
All right.
Will you excuse me?
Certainly.
How do I check out,
doctor?
Green board.
Do you have
any complaints?
None. I'm satisfied.
Then we can soon begin
our training period.
Yes.
Yes, I'll tell Housner he
can set it up at any time.
Major.
Well, Major,
it looks like the project is
going better than we hoped.
Has anyone told you
what happened to Jennifer?
No. I've changed my mind about
having her come to see me.
It's not important.
She was attacked
by ed Nichols.
Why tell me?
There's nothing I can do
about her now.
A vindictive whim,
Colonel,
or some uncontrollable
impulse?
If I had no control
over my impulses, Major,
you'd be in serious trouble.
Aren't you even concerned
about her condition?
From now on I'm concerned with
the success of this project,
and you'll either help me
or get out of the way.
Do you read me, Major?
If it becomes necessary,
I will remove you.
Mrs. Barham, these questions
may seem rather strange,
but they could help
fill in some gaps.
You know, I have only a splintered
recollection of last night,
but at a point I was certain
you called me Jennifer.
That was pretty familiar
of me, wasn't it?
Yes. Especially since
I don't know your name.
Douglas.
Major Douglas McKinnon.
It suits you.
Are you trying
to avoid my questions?
Yes.
I've had enough horror
for a while.
Why did your marriage
break up?
Alec was...
Well, there were other women.
He honestly thought that...
The rules didn't apply to him.
Last night,
it wanted to see you.
When I said I didn't think you'd
come, it became very disturbed.
Only a few minutes later,
Nichols went berserk.
You make that sound
as if there's a connection.
I think there is.
The brain sent that man
after me?
I'm sorry, but for your own
protection I thought you should know.
But I can't believe it!
How can you make somebody
do a thing like that?
Do you feel well enough
to go home?
Well, yes, of course...
Why, Douglas?
Is... that brain going
to turn on me again?
I think it's outgrown
petty emotions.
It seems to have moved
on into a...
What we call a cosmic state.
But...
That could be worse.
I'll make all
the arrangements.
Do you have to leave now?
Yes. They're giving the,
uh, the brain its first test.
If there are any developments
I'll let you know.
Thank you, Douglas.
Problems, Major?
Going to change
the problem again?
What for?
Do you have any doubt if the
brain's adjusting to it?
None at all.
Again my congratulations.
An amazing performance.
The brain deserves
all the credit.
I expected it to require
weeks of training.
It puts the program
far ahead of schedule.
There's no question
of success now.
You were about
to object, Major?
I'd like to ask Dr. Rahm if there's
been any physiological changes?
I assume you read the
technician's morning report?
Yes, I did.
It noted the presence of
additional matter in the jar.
What is it?
Apparently, the brain grows
when its no longer confined.
Time's up.
Well, Major?
Is the intercom off,
Mr. Housner?
Yes.
In my opinion, the brain has
developed a sense of omnipotence.
It can hardly be blamed for
considering itself superior.
It is superior.
Yes, and paranoid.
Nonsense.
I think it has a messianic
complex, which when rejected,
turns itself to destructiveness,
as you know, doctor.
Major, do you have
evidence of this?
I'm convinced
it was responsible
for Nichols' attack
on Mrs. Barham.
Mrs. Barham refused
to see him as he is now.
It infuriated him.
But how?
I'm not certain, sir,
but hypnotism possibly.
Don't forget, General, this brain has
to meet none of the normal demands.
It can concentrate its full
powers on a single idea.
When I talked to it, I felt a
definite sense of being dominated.
Now, you're transforming it
into a Svengali.
Any transformation can be
credited to you, doctor.
Now, gentlemen...
I'm sorry, doctor.
I didn't mean to attack you. You've
a achieved an astounding success.
Which you're trying
to destroy.
I believe the experiment
should be terminated!
A work to which I've devoted more
years than you've been alive!
Such insolence could only
come from a juvenile.
Or a charlatan.
Now, doctor!
Excuse me, gentlemen, I have
my project to take care of!
Is anything wrong, doctor?
No. No. Everything
looks extremely good.
Do you have
any problems?
None at all.
I've never felt better.
Why, shouldn't I?
Well, to be honest with you there
have been some new developments.
Anything to worry about?
I don't know, really.
You seem to be developing
new tissue.
First, I thought
it was only distortion,
but now it looks like
enlargement of the brain.
Leave it there. That's
the way my brain grows.
That was my own conclusion,
Alec, but how do you know it?
I sensed it.
That's the only way
I can explain it.
You have to get
a larger container.
Not glass,
it's too easily broken.
That's a very good idea.
I'll do it.
There's another problem.
What is it?
Major McKinnon.
You had a quarrel with him,
didn't you?
Well...
Yes, there was a professional
difference of opinion.
What is his opinion, doctor?
He believes this project
should be abandoned.
He's a dangerous man.
He'll have to be removed.
I'll demand that General Pettit
transfer him from the base.
A transfer won't
silence him, doctor.
I think you'd
better kill him.
I don't think we need do
anything that drastic.
Unless my quarters
have been cleaned up,
there's an automatic
in the top drawer.
That's enough. I don't
want anymore of that talk.
You're getting yourself
all worked up.
Just look at that stylus.
Now, you just quiet down.
Don't talk to me like that, doctor!
I gave you an order.
I expect you to carry
it out immediately!
I'm beginning to think
McKinnon was right.
You are deranged.
Oh, I was on my way to your office, doctor.
I'm going... doctor?
What's the matter with him?
Well, he's a scientist,
Mrs. Barham,
they walk around in a
daze most of the time.
Didn't you see his eyes? That's
the way he looked last night.
Who?
That man, Nichols.
He had that same frozen,
glassy stare.
Well, I'm sure
you're mistaken.
No, there's something wrong!
I know it.
Well, maybe I better have a word with him.
Wait here, please.
Yes? What is it?
Major?
Major McKinnon?
It's all right.
Were you hit?
It's... it's all right.
He... he missed me.
Wait a minute,
are you sure?
Yeah.
You know something,
he thinks he knows
all about the human brain.
All about it.
Has everybody gone crazy
or is it just me?
Mark, are you seriously
trying to tell me
that Dr. Rahm tried to
shoot Major McKinnon?
He fired the full clip
at 6 paces, sir.
And never hit the target once?
That's impossible.
I don't know how he missed
the first shot, sir,
but after that
I was under my desk.
Well, Major, I'm very
glad you weren't hurt.
But that doesn't
explain it.
We don't exactly know why Nichols
attacked Mrs. Barham, either.
Don't forget, Major, you attacked
Dr. Rahm's professional integrity.
Well, I'm sure he wasn't that deeply
hurt, and besides, McKinnon apologized.
He's an old man
with pride.
Well,
what's his explanation?
He denies
doing it at all.
Well, you saw
the whole thing.
Yes, sir,
I disarmed him.
General, when
Dr. Rahm left the control booth,
it was to take the brain back
to the laboratory.
Well, he must have...
He, uh, he must have come
directly from there to my office.
Sir, I think you should talk
to Mrs. Barham.
Mrs. Barham, why?
Well, she's the one who alerted
me to follow Dr. Rahm.
She said he was acting
like Nichols last night.
Lord, is it possible?
No, I protest!
Even if we agree that the
brain hated Major McKinnon,
even if it could direct
someone to shoot him,
it would never be Rahm.
The brain needs
Dr. Rahm.
I don't believe that thing
needs anybody now.
But we need it!
An egomaniac
that thinks it's a god?
Gentlemen! Gentlemen!
We'll get no where bickering.
Where's Mrs. Barham now?
Well, I can't say for sure, sir,
I left her in the corridor.
Find her.
Yes, sir.
And we'll pay
Colonel Barham a visit.
Stay a while, Jennifer.
You'll soon get used to me.
You turned that man
against me, didn't you?
You mustn't believe everything
McKinnon tells you.
Is it true
he was shot?
It wouldn't surprise me.
He was becoming a nuisance.
The world can't be
made over just for you.
Unless you stop,
they'll destroy you.
Destroy me?
They wouldn't even if they could.
You'll see.
I hear them coming now.
Sit down, Jennifer.
I'll decide what to do
about you later.
Mrs. Barham, we've
been looking for you.
What's on your mind,
General?
Major McKinnon claims that you
directed Dr. Rahm to shoot him.
And Nichols
to assault your wife.
Now what about it?
It doesn't look to me
as if anyone shot him.
Shot at.
Your zombie failed.
Either the Major is badly confused or
his jealousy is getting out of hand.
Jealousy?
Didn't you know? He's
in love with my wife.
Who has old-fashioned ideas
about divorce.
The only way out
is to get rid of me.
Hasn't he recommended
I be terminated?
Yes.
But not for the reasons
you suggest.
Then why, Major?
Because the experiment
has failed.
Because, god help us, we've
turned you into a monster.
All right! All right!
That's enough.
I'll handle this, General.
You were lucky once, McKinnon,
but don't take it too big,
I can wipe you out
any time I choose.
I said that's enough!
What would you like me to do?
Come to attention? Salute?
I'm no longer
under you're command, Pettit.
In fact, you'd better start
learning to take orders from me!
Do you have
any doubts now, sir?
It doesn't matter.
Only the project
is important.
All right, gentlemen.
Jennifer?
Stay where you are, Jennifer!
Project's canceled!
I want this thing
disconnected.
Jennifer.
Stop him!
Jennifer's
still in there.
Major, you'll never
get her out that way.
There's no question about it,
Housner, it's got to be destroyed!
You can't destroy it! For the sake of
science, you must find a way to keep it!
It won't work. The brain will
deal only on its own terms!
Then cut off
all the power.
Don't you understand?
It creates its own power!
We'll have
to blast it out!
What about
Mrs. Barham?
Jennifer?
Yes.
Don't be foolish,
Jennifer.
Somebody's got to go
in there!
And be electrocuted?
Some kind
of insulation!
No. Let's see what we can do
through the window first.
Sergeant,
come with me.
Are you all right?
Yes.
Come on.
Can you see them, sir?
No. But I can see
the machine.
I wonder what would happen
if I put a bullet through it.
I don't know, sir. It could
turn loose all that energy.
Housner would know.
Where is he?
Still outside that room.
Shall I get him, sir?
No. Get me a rifle.
Yes, sir.
Jennifer, you're making
a lot of trouble.
It's not like you.
Talk to him.
And you, Major, you're
exciting your patient.
Very bad.
How much longer
is this madness going on?
What are you trying to do?
Make them face the facts.
I'm in no hurry.
They've only got
a few years to live.
Of course,
you may get hungry,
but I can wait.
Stay close.
It wasn't Alec.
Whatever was in there,
it wasn't Alec.
Yes, I know.
Colonel Barham died
on the operating table.
Progress goes on.
One experiment fails,
but even out of failure
valuable lessons are learned.
A way will be found
some day, some how.
It always is.
We now return control
of your television set to you.
Until next week,
at this same time,
when the control voice
will take you to.
The outer limits.
world growing more crowded,
the great powers strive
to conquer other planets.
The race is on.
The interplanetary sea
has already been charted.
The first caravel of space
is being constructed.
Who will get there first?
Who will be the new Columbus?
In 10 seconds,
gentlemen,
the problem will be
changed in midstream.
You've made your point.
It's no contest.
The human brain
can't match a computer.
Watch.
One of the symbols
has been subtracted.
Now, we shall see.
Well, how can they complete
their patterns?
That, General,
is their problem.
Not a fair test,
Housner.
The computer isn't
programmed for that.
Neither is
Colonel Barham.
Colonel Barham,
you're pattern
does not conform.
There was a malfunction.
I had to improvise.
Elaborate, please.
Brownboyd key was jammed up.
Closest approximation was the
rectangle symbol which I substituted,
and if this is the kind
of equipment
you're sending into space,
I am relieved not to be going!
Gentlemen,
I'll not apologize
for Colonel Barham's conduct.
In addition to being
a sick man,
he was also properly incensed.
It wasn't a realistic test,
General.
Can any of us predict the
problems of landing on Mars?
No.
Then how can you program
a machine for the unknown?
Only the human mind
is able to adjust
to... toward the unexpected
emergencies.
Providing your space man
was still alive.
And he wouldn't be.
Man or machine, you can't
have it both ways.
I disagree, General.
Why not Mr. Nichols' computer
activated by a human brain?
Now, what kind
of nonsense is that?
Doctor Rahm has already done it
with a brain of a chimpanzee.
Naturally, we'd want a brain
already highly trained
in space technology.
Perhaps, you'd like
to volunteer for the mission?
I was thinking
of Colonel Barham.
Colonel Barham?
His disease is incurable.
It's in a terminal
stage, isn't it?
What would he lose?
At best 6 months.
And his brain.
Just the opposite,
General.
His brain would be saved,
perhaps forever.
Only the diseased, worn-out
body would be discarded.
Speaking psychologically,
Mr. Housner,
I think you've just given
that brain a traumatic shock.
There is nothing
wrong with your television set.
Do not attempt
to adjust the picture.
We are controlling
transmission.
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 inner mind to.
The outer limits.
You'd be no worse off
in the city, Alec,
and there are so many things
you can still enjoy.
Are you volunteering to look
after me in my declining days?
Yes.
I am.
"In sickness
and in health..."
You took your marriage vows more
seriously than I ever took mine.
That isn't why
I said that.
You couldn't still be
in love with me.
And I don't need pity.
Thanks for the offer,
but I'll stay here.
It all seems
so terribly lonesome.
Oh, I manage
to keep busy.
There are jobs
I can still do here.
They have use for my
brain if nothing else.
And how they
want to use it.
What do you mean, Alec?
They'd like me to volunteer
for a mission.
In your condition?
They have no right
to ask anything.
Well, they haven't yet.
But it bugs them.
It really bugs them.
All the time and money
invested to put me on Mars.
Instead, it all goes
into a 6-foot hole.
Don't, Alec, please.
I'm so terribly sorry.
Why me?
Why do I have to die with a
world full of useless slobs?
Alec...
Relax, Colonel.
General, I think
you know my wife.
Of course. Nice to see
you again, Jennifer.
Hello.
And Major McKinnon,
our twitch doctor.
How do you do?
Hello, Mrs. Barham.
I have something very serious to
discuss with your husband, Jennifer.
I think you should
hear it, too.
If it's all the same with you, General,
I'd prefer to keep it within the service.
Very well.
What is it, Alec?
Why can't I hear?
It doesn't concern you.
Mrs. Barham, would you
care for some coffee?
Well, you know
what it is, Alec.
I'm sorry you had
to hear it that way.
But that's Housner.
He builds the most
sophisticated space craft yet
and can't remember
to turn off an intercom.
This will be mostly
Dr. Rahm's project.
They ran some film
on the computer
activated by
the chimp's brain.
It works.
The chimp was drafted, sir.
This machine will have
eyes, ears, and a voice.
It will see Mars
and all the other planets
of the solar system.
It will never be bothered
by heat or by cold
or lack of atmosphere.
It will never be hungry
or thirsty, or feel pain.
And it may be immortal.
Tell me something,
General.
How would I do
with pretty girls?
How are you doing now?
How long have you
been married, Mrs. Barham?
8 years.
6 on active service.
And you're, uh,
you're not divorced?
No.
Forgive me, Mrs. Barham,
it's not merely curiosity.
You see, I have to understand
more about your husband...
To complete his record,
of course.
Major, you're
the psychologist.
Why don't you
explain him to me?
Well, I could tell you he was
a highly capable astronaut
with a superior mind,
perfect reflexes,
and an unfaltering
self-confidence.
Nothing there I dispute.
Very admirable traits.
But where's the balance?
Balance?
Do you mean
his weaknesses?
Excuse me.
Major McKinnon.
Yes, sir.
That's very interesting.
No, no, sir, I can't
really say I'm surprised.
Yes, sir, I'll...
I'll do it
if you wish.
Major?
Yes, Mrs. Barham.
Oh, uh, some more coffee.
No.
I want some information.
Well, you know, it's...
It's classified.
General Pettit had no objections
to my knowing about it.
Why can't you tell me?
Mrs. Barham.
Mrs. Barham,
putting the first man on Mars
will be a tremendous...
A tremendous gamble.
By sending a robot first,
it's hoped to obtain
enough knowledge to...
Well...
Let's say reduce the odds.
That's elementary enough,
even for me.
The only trouble is
no machine can be programmed
for unknown problems.
Only the human brain is capable
of adapting. So it was decided...
Let me guess, Major.
So, they want to send an
astronaut who's expendable.
Somebody who's going
to die anyway?
No, not exactly.
The astronaut probably
wouldn't live long enough
to transmit any
useful information.
Oh!
I'm sorry
I jumped ahead.
The ideal solution would be...
A machine...
And the human brain.
Only the brain.
You can't be serious?
Is that what they want
Alec to volunteer for?
His brain?
He hasn't many days to live,
you must know that.
Do you mean you
approve of this?
No.
Oh, no.
But probably
for different reasons.
We know little enough
about the human mind
under so called
"normal conditions."
Well, they'll have
to get someone else.
Alec would never
volunteer for it.
That was the General
who called.
The operation's set
for a week from Wednesday.
Why?
Why would he do it?
Do you remember the old fable
about the blind men
trying to describe
an elephant
by the part
they were touching?
Yes.
Does it apply here?
General Pettit is a blind man.
He thinks I volunteered
out of patriotism,
dedication to the service.
Well, that's
a soldier's viewpoint.
Then take Dr. Rahm.
He sees it
as good common sense.
I was going to die anyway,
why not gamble?
Weren't there
3 blind men?
Housner.
To him it's
intellectual curiosity.
I think he envies me.
You're not taking
notes, Major.
Let me get
below the surface.
You see, you're the only one
with eyes,
and still, you can't see
the obvious.
You keep looking
in dusty corners.
If I could get some light
into those corners, Colonel,
what would I find?
Dust.
Not egotism?
That must have been
a searching conversation
you had with my wife
this afternoon.
Why did you refuse
to see her again?
She is opposed to this
operation, isn't she?
Very strongly.
Yes, well...
It does complicate things,
don't you see?
She doesn't believe
in divorce.
And now that my mind
might live forever,
where does that leave her?
No one's forcing me, Major.
I want to do this.
I won't see you again
until after the operation.
You think it's going
to fail, don't you?
Dr. Rahm wouldn't attempt it
unless he thought
it would be successful.
What worries me is the
kind of mind you'll have.
Brilliant.
Distinguished.
Incomparable.
Profound.
Or would you prefer
infinite?
Colonel, I'd settle
for human.
Well, we ought
to know soon.
Housner?
Rahm's confident.
So we'll wait and see.
Read your report
last night, Major.
Didn't help me sleep
any better.
I wish I could have been
more optimistic, sir.
Seemed to me the brain
would be released.
In time, it might even develop
into a super intellect.
All the knowledge of the
universe in a single mind.
And all minor gods step
back one pace.
General Pettit.
A very brave man.
Well, how did
it go, doctor?
The brain seems to be reacting
favorably to its new environment.
But of course,
its still unconscious.
So we won't know until
we awaken it at 4:00.
Thank you, doctor.
Now, as you can
see, the encephalogram.
Is registering
normal brain activity
in a sleeping state.
By stepping up
the electrical current,
I'll bring it
to full consciousness.
Isn't that too soon
after the operation?
Why?
He'll feel no pain,
no weakness.
Of course, I forgot.
Bring it to 15 micros.
Dial reads 15 micros.
Recording increased
activity, doctor.
Some activity
in the motor area.
Unusual amount,
wouldn't you say, doctor?
Apparently, the brain
is trying to move.
Move? Move what?
There's no body?
The brain
doesn't realize that yet.
Should calm down shortly.
You performed the same experiment
on the brain of a chimpanzee.
Did its motor area
become quiescent?
The cases
are hardly similar.
You cannot communicate
with a chimp.
The problem can be explained
to Colonel Barham's brain.
That's your field, Major.
Yes, sir.
But I'd still like to know
what happened to the energy generated
by the chimp's motor area.
There was an overload
in the brain.
They lied to me.
They said
there would be no pain.
Colonel?
This is Dr. Rahm.
Can you hear me?
I feel pain.
Quick!
Put it back under!
Nurse, I want something
for my pain.
Give me...
Shock.
Doctor,
Mr. Housner, Major,
my office, 2 hours.
Mrs. Barham.
Oh.
I was just coming
to see you.
Well, the General's
called a briefing.
Could you walk along
with me?
I've just been
to see Alec.
Oh, no, not that...
Machine.
I won't go near it.
He looked very natural.
All the pain lines
were smoothed out.
The way he used to look.
I'm sorry.
Why should you be?
Well, it's awkward.
Do I offer my sympathy or...
As far as I'm concerned,
Alec is dead.
Whatever they've
got in there...
That whatever...
It's not right, Major.
It's not right.
On the other hand,
future generations
may all be hybrids:
Half machine,
half human.
Last week
you agreed with me,
for different reasons,
you said.
Yes.
Well, I... I
wasn't satisfied with...
I... I didn't think
it would work.
Were you right?
Has it worked?
It's too soon to tell.
That's what
the briefing's about.
All right.
I'll wait.
Mrs. Barham,
I have no idea how
long this will take.
I'm a patient woman,
Major.
Gentlemen,
all I'm asking for
is a critical evaluation.
Major, you're late.
Mrs. Barham
is on the base, sir.
Oh, I see.
All right, doctor.
There's no question
that the brain is
experiencing pain reactions.
Wave patterns
indicate that.
So did Colonel Barham.
But only in the
man's encephalon.
In my opinion, General,
it's illusionary.
Psychosomatic,
in a sense.
Doctor, I'm a soldier.
Don't give me all that
technical gobbledygook.
Major?
I think what Dr. Rahm
is saying is
that the motor stations
are still receiving stimuli.
A common parallel would be a patient
insisting he has pain in his toes
long after that leg
had been amputated.
Sensation disappears
in time.
Psychiatric treatment
might speed it up.
Do you agree?
Well, in normal
circumstances, yes.
The circumstances
are unique.
The genius of Dr. Rahm
and the one brain in the world
perfectly suited to our needs
at the same time.
It will never happen again.
That's no guarantee
of success.
Major McKinnon...
You've had a negative
attitude from the start.
Now, what in the world
is bothering you?
General...
The human brain
is an intricate mechanism.
It responds
to instinctual drives
which are adjusted or censored
by the conscious mind.
Discipline, that's all.
Well, call it
what you like, sir.
It's the difference between
a civilized man and a savage.
My point is that
this inhibiting force
is partially connected
with the body.
With the development
of physical identity
and physical needs
and satisfactions,
and, yes, disappointments.
The brain still sees
and hears.
But it's been deprived
of taste, touch, smell,
vibration, heat and cold.
It's already manifesting
hallucinatory tendencies.
What other abnormal
behaviors may develop?
Well, suppose you tell us.
Sir, I can't.
I don't know.
Subconscious drives
may be released.
The discipline
could simply collapse.
And for someone
who's an egocentric,
it wouldn't take much
to do it!
No.
In my opinion,
Colonel Barham was the wrong
choice for this experiment.
He was the only choice!
Then we should
have waited!
We couldn't wait, Major.
We're in a race.
We have to gamble
to gain a year or 2.
We must succeed
with this brain.
And that, Major,
is your assignment.
I don't know, Major, I'm
getting a better reading, now.
And he says the pain
isn't so bad.
He's been awake?
Yeah, talking
his head off.
Well, you know
what I mean.
Who authorized this?
Nobody. I didn't
turn up the juice.
He just came out of it
by himself.
Don't ask me
to explain it, Major,
but... but this clock reads
10 micros above the input.
Now, I've checked
all the circuits.
He's not getting it
from outside.
Major.
It can hear us,
you know.
Has Dr. Rahm been informed?
I'm waiting for him
to call back.
Been going up steadily
in the last hour.
At this rate it will operate
on its own power by morning.
When did Dr. Rahm
figure this would happen?
Oh, a minimum
of 10 days.
Major, how many micros
do you think it will go up?
I have no idea.
Why?
Just wondering.
Colonel Barham?
Can you hear me?
Loud and clear, Major.
How do you feel?
Isn't that
a non-technical question?
I don't feel at all,
I just think.
You complained earlier
of severe pain.
All imagination.
As a psychiatrist, you
ought to know about that.
As long as you understand it, there
doesn't seem to be any problem.
Problems, Major?
That's only for mortals.
Would you like
to discuss yours?
I could help you,
you know.
Why don't you tell me
all about it?
It's really nothing
to be ashamed of.
Just start talking.
It will make you feel
much better.
You, uh,
reversed the situation
very neatly.
You're closer to the truth
than you realize, Major.
Think about it.
I certainly will.
Good night.
Wait.
Has Jennifer been told?
Yes.
She's here now
making the...
The arrangements.
Tell her to visit me.
I don't think that's a...
A good idea.
I didn't ask
for opinions, Major.
I got the feeling she'd rather
remember you the other way.
She refuses to come?
Yes.
I'm sorry. I... I'll give her
any message, but...
Well...
Once she's had a chance
to adjust.
Nichols?
Right here.
Close the door, Nichols.
Close it!
Just take it easy.
Is there a guard outside?
Yes.
Come closer.
Mrs. Barham refused to
come here, you heard that?
Answer me!
Yes!
Yes, I heard.
Get her to me, Nichols.
I don't know where she is.
Do as you're told!
She's on the base. Find
her and bring her here.
Don't argue with her,
just bring her.
Look, I can't do that!
But I'll get Dr. Rahm.
I don't know why
you're upset, Major.
How can you consider the progress
as anything but encouraging?
Because there are indications that
the brain is becoming disassociated.
Oh.
And what form
is it taking?
Delusions of grandeur,
for one.
Delusions, Major?
Colonel Barham
has achieved grandeur.
But we'll watch him.
We'll watch it closely.
Major?
Oh, I'm sorry,
I thought it...
What is it?
What do you want?
Leave me alone!
Leave me alone!
Help!
Help!
Help!
Jennifer. Jennifer,
are you hurt?
Did he hurt you?
No! No!
Oh, Major!
Nichols?
Mrs. Barham,
what in the world happened?
I don't know!
He was like a maniac!
There. It's all right.
It's all right.
I want Dr. Rahm
to look at you.
This is Major McKinnon,
get me the O.D., fast!
And page Dr. Rahm.
Well, I can't
understand Nichols.
He's always been
a steady citizen.
A wife and 2 children.
Don't you test these people?
Nichols' profile shows
no aberrant tendencies, sir.
Is she all right?
Nothing but shock.
I gave her a sedative.
A day in bed
and she'll be fine.
Well, keep her here
as long as necessary
and give her anything
she wants.
Now, what about Nichols?
A little groggy, yet.
What did you
hit him with?
Just my fist.
Did he give you
any explanation?
No, uh, claims he can't
remember a thing.
I don't think
he believes he did it.
Well, he had to be drunk.
There's no other explanation.
Well, then, Major McKinnon's
going to have to find one,
Nichols hadn't had
a drink.
Doctor,
how's the brain?
You'd called me before I
finished my examination. Why?
If you're going back
to the laboratory now,
I'd like
to come along.
All right.
Will you excuse me?
Certainly.
How do I check out,
doctor?
Green board.
Do you have
any complaints?
None. I'm satisfied.
Then we can soon begin
our training period.
Yes.
Yes, I'll tell Housner he
can set it up at any time.
Major.
Well, Major,
it looks like the project is
going better than we hoped.
Has anyone told you
what happened to Jennifer?
No. I've changed my mind about
having her come to see me.
It's not important.
She was attacked
by ed Nichols.
Why tell me?
There's nothing I can do
about her now.
A vindictive whim,
Colonel,
or some uncontrollable
impulse?
If I had no control
over my impulses, Major,
you'd be in serious trouble.
Aren't you even concerned
about her condition?
From now on I'm concerned with
the success of this project,
and you'll either help me
or get out of the way.
Do you read me, Major?
If it becomes necessary,
I will remove you.
Mrs. Barham, these questions
may seem rather strange,
but they could help
fill in some gaps.
You know, I have only a splintered
recollection of last night,
but at a point I was certain
you called me Jennifer.
That was pretty familiar
of me, wasn't it?
Yes. Especially since
I don't know your name.
Douglas.
Major Douglas McKinnon.
It suits you.
Are you trying
to avoid my questions?
Yes.
I've had enough horror
for a while.
Why did your marriage
break up?
Alec was...
Well, there were other women.
He honestly thought that...
The rules didn't apply to him.
Last night,
it wanted to see you.
When I said I didn't think you'd
come, it became very disturbed.
Only a few minutes later,
Nichols went berserk.
You make that sound
as if there's a connection.
I think there is.
The brain sent that man
after me?
I'm sorry, but for your own
protection I thought you should know.
But I can't believe it!
How can you make somebody
do a thing like that?
Do you feel well enough
to go home?
Well, yes, of course...
Why, Douglas?
Is... that brain going
to turn on me again?
I think it's outgrown
petty emotions.
It seems to have moved
on into a...
What we call a cosmic state.
But...
That could be worse.
I'll make all
the arrangements.
Do you have to leave now?
Yes. They're giving the,
uh, the brain its first test.
If there are any developments
I'll let you know.
Thank you, Douglas.
Problems, Major?
Going to change
the problem again?
What for?
Do you have any doubt if the
brain's adjusting to it?
None at all.
Again my congratulations.
An amazing performance.
The brain deserves
all the credit.
I expected it to require
weeks of training.
It puts the program
far ahead of schedule.
There's no question
of success now.
You were about
to object, Major?
I'd like to ask Dr. Rahm if there's
been any physiological changes?
I assume you read the
technician's morning report?
Yes, I did.
It noted the presence of
additional matter in the jar.
What is it?
Apparently, the brain grows
when its no longer confined.
Time's up.
Well, Major?
Is the intercom off,
Mr. Housner?
Yes.
In my opinion, the brain has
developed a sense of omnipotence.
It can hardly be blamed for
considering itself superior.
It is superior.
Yes, and paranoid.
Nonsense.
I think it has a messianic
complex, which when rejected,
turns itself to destructiveness,
as you know, doctor.
Major, do you have
evidence of this?
I'm convinced
it was responsible
for Nichols' attack
on Mrs. Barham.
Mrs. Barham refused
to see him as he is now.
It infuriated him.
But how?
I'm not certain, sir,
but hypnotism possibly.
Don't forget, General, this brain has
to meet none of the normal demands.
It can concentrate its full
powers on a single idea.
When I talked to it, I felt a
definite sense of being dominated.
Now, you're transforming it
into a Svengali.
Any transformation can be
credited to you, doctor.
Now, gentlemen...
I'm sorry, doctor.
I didn't mean to attack you. You've
a achieved an astounding success.
Which you're trying
to destroy.
I believe the experiment
should be terminated!
A work to which I've devoted more
years than you've been alive!
Such insolence could only
come from a juvenile.
Or a charlatan.
Now, doctor!
Excuse me, gentlemen, I have
my project to take care of!
Is anything wrong, doctor?
No. No. Everything
looks extremely good.
Do you have
any problems?
None at all.
I've never felt better.
Why, shouldn't I?
Well, to be honest with you there
have been some new developments.
Anything to worry about?
I don't know, really.
You seem to be developing
new tissue.
First, I thought
it was only distortion,
but now it looks like
enlargement of the brain.
Leave it there. That's
the way my brain grows.
That was my own conclusion,
Alec, but how do you know it?
I sensed it.
That's the only way
I can explain it.
You have to get
a larger container.
Not glass,
it's too easily broken.
That's a very good idea.
I'll do it.
There's another problem.
What is it?
Major McKinnon.
You had a quarrel with him,
didn't you?
Well...
Yes, there was a professional
difference of opinion.
What is his opinion, doctor?
He believes this project
should be abandoned.
He's a dangerous man.
He'll have to be removed.
I'll demand that General Pettit
transfer him from the base.
A transfer won't
silence him, doctor.
I think you'd
better kill him.
I don't think we need do
anything that drastic.
Unless my quarters
have been cleaned up,
there's an automatic
in the top drawer.
That's enough. I don't
want anymore of that talk.
You're getting yourself
all worked up.
Just look at that stylus.
Now, you just quiet down.
Don't talk to me like that, doctor!
I gave you an order.
I expect you to carry
it out immediately!
I'm beginning to think
McKinnon was right.
You are deranged.
Oh, I was on my way to your office, doctor.
I'm going... doctor?
What's the matter with him?
Well, he's a scientist,
Mrs. Barham,
they walk around in a
daze most of the time.
Didn't you see his eyes? That's
the way he looked last night.
Who?
That man, Nichols.
He had that same frozen,
glassy stare.
Well, I'm sure
you're mistaken.
No, there's something wrong!
I know it.
Well, maybe I better have a word with him.
Wait here, please.
Yes? What is it?
Major?
Major McKinnon?
It's all right.
Were you hit?
It's... it's all right.
He... he missed me.
Wait a minute,
are you sure?
Yeah.
You know something,
he thinks he knows
all about the human brain.
All about it.
Has everybody gone crazy
or is it just me?
Mark, are you seriously
trying to tell me
that Dr. Rahm tried to
shoot Major McKinnon?
He fired the full clip
at 6 paces, sir.
And never hit the target once?
That's impossible.
I don't know how he missed
the first shot, sir,
but after that
I was under my desk.
Well, Major, I'm very
glad you weren't hurt.
But that doesn't
explain it.
We don't exactly know why Nichols
attacked Mrs. Barham, either.
Don't forget, Major, you attacked
Dr. Rahm's professional integrity.
Well, I'm sure he wasn't that deeply
hurt, and besides, McKinnon apologized.
He's an old man
with pride.
Well,
what's his explanation?
He denies
doing it at all.
Well, you saw
the whole thing.
Yes, sir,
I disarmed him.
General, when
Dr. Rahm left the control booth,
it was to take the brain back
to the laboratory.
Well, he must have...
He, uh, he must have come
directly from there to my office.
Sir, I think you should talk
to Mrs. Barham.
Mrs. Barham, why?
Well, she's the one who alerted
me to follow Dr. Rahm.
She said he was acting
like Nichols last night.
Lord, is it possible?
No, I protest!
Even if we agree that the
brain hated Major McKinnon,
even if it could direct
someone to shoot him,
it would never be Rahm.
The brain needs
Dr. Rahm.
I don't believe that thing
needs anybody now.
But we need it!
An egomaniac
that thinks it's a god?
Gentlemen! Gentlemen!
We'll get no where bickering.
Where's Mrs. Barham now?
Well, I can't say for sure, sir,
I left her in the corridor.
Find her.
Yes, sir.
And we'll pay
Colonel Barham a visit.
Stay a while, Jennifer.
You'll soon get used to me.
You turned that man
against me, didn't you?
You mustn't believe everything
McKinnon tells you.
Is it true
he was shot?
It wouldn't surprise me.
He was becoming a nuisance.
The world can't be
made over just for you.
Unless you stop,
they'll destroy you.
Destroy me?
They wouldn't even if they could.
You'll see.
I hear them coming now.
Sit down, Jennifer.
I'll decide what to do
about you later.
Mrs. Barham, we've
been looking for you.
What's on your mind,
General?
Major McKinnon claims that you
directed Dr. Rahm to shoot him.
And Nichols
to assault your wife.
Now what about it?
It doesn't look to me
as if anyone shot him.
Shot at.
Your zombie failed.
Either the Major is badly confused or
his jealousy is getting out of hand.
Jealousy?
Didn't you know? He's
in love with my wife.
Who has old-fashioned ideas
about divorce.
The only way out
is to get rid of me.
Hasn't he recommended
I be terminated?
Yes.
But not for the reasons
you suggest.
Then why, Major?
Because the experiment
has failed.
Because, god help us, we've
turned you into a monster.
All right! All right!
That's enough.
I'll handle this, General.
You were lucky once, McKinnon,
but don't take it too big,
I can wipe you out
any time I choose.
I said that's enough!
What would you like me to do?
Come to attention? Salute?
I'm no longer
under you're command, Pettit.
In fact, you'd better start
learning to take orders from me!
Do you have
any doubts now, sir?
It doesn't matter.
Only the project
is important.
All right, gentlemen.
Jennifer?
Stay where you are, Jennifer!
Project's canceled!
I want this thing
disconnected.
Jennifer.
Stop him!
Jennifer's
still in there.
Major, you'll never
get her out that way.
There's no question about it,
Housner, it's got to be destroyed!
You can't destroy it! For the sake of
science, you must find a way to keep it!
It won't work. The brain will
deal only on its own terms!
Then cut off
all the power.
Don't you understand?
It creates its own power!
We'll have
to blast it out!
What about
Mrs. Barham?
Jennifer?
Yes.
Don't be foolish,
Jennifer.
Somebody's got to go
in there!
And be electrocuted?
Some kind
of insulation!
No. Let's see what we can do
through the window first.
Sergeant,
come with me.
Are you all right?
Yes.
Come on.
Can you see them, sir?
No. But I can see
the machine.
I wonder what would happen
if I put a bullet through it.
I don't know, sir. It could
turn loose all that energy.
Housner would know.
Where is he?
Still outside that room.
Shall I get him, sir?
No. Get me a rifle.
Yes, sir.
Jennifer, you're making
a lot of trouble.
It's not like you.
Talk to him.
And you, Major, you're
exciting your patient.
Very bad.
How much longer
is this madness going on?
What are you trying to do?
Make them face the facts.
I'm in no hurry.
They've only got
a few years to live.
Of course,
you may get hungry,
but I can wait.
Stay close.
It wasn't Alec.
Whatever was in there,
it wasn't Alec.
Yes, I know.
Colonel Barham died
on the operating table.
Progress goes on.
One experiment fails,
but even out of failure
valuable lessons are learned.
A way will be found
some day, some how.
It always is.
We now return control
of your television set to you.
Until next week,
at this same time,
when the control voice
will take you to.
The outer limits.