Read the production script for The Chronicles of Oz: The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus. This script may differ slightly from the final released audio.
Listen to The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus
EXT. FOREST OF BURZEE
A magical forest — twinkling breeze, owl hooting, birds chirping. It’s ‘Midsummer Nights Dream’ crossed with Disney, hinting at the festive adventure to begin.
We hear CLAUS. He’s almost exactly as you would imagine Father Christmas to sound — jolly, red nose, about to burst into ho-ho-ho, the works. Eternally optimistic and wanting to see good in all. But this is no shopping mall Santa — there’s real character in his voice. He speaks to us.
CLAUS (V.O.)
Nothing bad lasts forever. Nobody knows this more than the Immortals. When you live long enough, you learn an important lesson — there is always good in the world. And it will always find its way… eventually. Sometimes it takes a while. Sometimes it takes longer than you want it to. But if you’re patient; if you’re strong, and if you put your own goodness into the world, you can get through any darkness to see the light.
The Immortals in the Forest of Burzee have seen more than their share of darkness and light over the aeons. Have you heard of the great Forest of Burzee? Perhaps you’ve heard of the big tree trunks standing close together, their roots intertwining below the earth and their branches intertwining above it; their rough coating of bark and unusual gnarled limbs. Of their bushy foliage that roofs the entire forest, save where the sunbeams find a path through which to touch the ground in little spots and cast weird and curious shadows over the mosses, lichens and drifts of dried leaves.
For hundreds of years, the Forest of Burzee has flourished in all its magnificence, the silence of its enclosure unbroken save by the chirp of busy chipmunks, the growl of wild beasts and the songs of birds.
Throughout this, the sound of the forest increases. Magical forest sounds.
CLAUS (V.O.) (cont’d)
Burzee is the home of the Fairies, which I expect you know already as the guardians of humanity. It is the home of the Knooks, who care for the animals of the world. There are also the Ryls, who look over the flowers and the trees… so many magical creatures in the Great Forest. And, of course, the Nymphs, which is where my story truly begins.
For once, so long ago that your great-grandparents could scarcely have heard it mentioned, there lived within the great Forest of Burzee a wood-nymph named Necile. She was closely related to the mighty Queen Lurline, and her home was beneath the shade of a wide-spreading oak. Every year, on Budding Day, when the trees put forth their new buds, Necile held the Golden Chalice of Ak to the lips of the Queen, who drank therefrom to the prosperity of the Forest. She was a nymph of some importance, and took pride in her duty to protect and guard the forests and to minister to the wants of the young trees.
The Nymphs start gathering in a celebration. It’s a very pagan celebration, around a fire. NECILE, a young woman with a wistful, hopeful air, holds a cup to the air and exclaims to the crowd.
NECILE
Great Ak! We drink of this chalice and thank you for your protection, from this Budding Day to the next!
The crowd cheers.
CLAUS (V.O.)
But as time went on, Necile felt the burden of her duties, and felt the want for more. She longed to do something of real passion and to pass her days in ways hitherto undreamed of by forest nymphs. But the Law of the Forest restrained her from going forth in search of adventure.
And while this mood lay heavy upon Necile, it chanced that Great Ak, the Master Woodsman of the World, visited the Forest of Burzee and allowed the wood-nymphs to lie at his feet and listen to the words of wisdom that fell from his lips.
The GREAT AK speaks – deep, resonant. The voice of a god, with the warmth of nature. The Nymphs coo around him.
AK
We live so happily, my fair ones, in our forest glades, that we know nothing of the sorrow and misery that fall to the lot of those poor mortals who inhabit the open spaces of the earth. They are not of our race, it is true, yet compassion well suits beings as fairly favoured as ourselves. I have walked the earth much this past year, and seen such depression. Such isolation… Often as I pass by the dwelling of some suffering mortal I am tempted to stop and banish the poor thing’s misery. Yet suffering — in moderation — is the natural order for mortals and it is not our place to interfere with the laws of Nature.
RYL
But I’m sure you have assisted them from time to time, Great Ak? We know you of old.
AK
(humorously)
Ahh… Sometimes, when they’re very young — children, the mortals call them — I have stopped to rescue them from misery. The adults I dare not assist, they must bear the burdens Nature has imposed on them, but the children are innocent. And children have a right to be happy until they become fully grown and able to bear the trials of humanity.
KNOOK
Tell us a story of a mortal you saved, Great Ak?
AK
I can tell a tale of this very night! As I came to the edge of Burzee I heard a feeble cry, which I judged came from a human infant. I looked about me and found, close to the forest, a helpless babe lying naked and wailing on the grass. How the child came to be there I know not. And not far away, screened by the forest, crouched Shiegra, the lioness, intent upon devouring the infant for her evening meal.
The crowd gasps, hanging off his every word.
NECILE
And what did you do?
AK
I could do little — I was in a hurry to greet my nymphs. But I commanded Shiegra to lie close to the babe and give it her milk to quiet its hunger. And I told her to send word throughout the forest, to all beasts and reptiles, that the child should not be harmed.
NECILE
Where is the child now?
AK
You show quite an interest in this child, Necile. Why do you ask?
NECILE
I only… Great Ak, I don’t mean to be insubordinate… but…
AK
The baby is with Shiegra still, to my knowledge. Beyond the edge of the Great Forest.
NECILE
Thank you, Great Ak.
AK
But the misery of the mortals brings us no joy — let us talk of other things! This is the Budding Day!
The nymphs giggle and laugh. Necile is quiet.
CLAUS (V.O.)
And while the Nymphs, Knooks, Ryls and others took joy in the Master Woodsman, Necile grew quiet, deep in thought. Then with a strange resolve, she stole away from the group and ran through the forest.
Necile runs off. The sound of the party fades away.
EXT. CLEARING – NIGHT
More forest, but less magical. We’re closer to the world of the mortals. Necile rushes through the trees.
CLAUS (V.O.)
Swiftly, her lithe form darted through the forest paths until she reached the edge of mighty Burzee, where she paused to gaze curiously around her.
NECILE
(to herself, uncertainly)
My… I’ve never gone so far from home before… I am surely breaking the Law…
CLAUS (V.O.)
This did not give pause to her dainty feet — she continued through the trees until she came to the edge of the Forest. And there, in the clearing, she found the babe.
The baby gurgles and makes baby noises.
NECILE
Oh… hello there little one. Oh my darling little boy… You are so beautiful…
Grrr — the sound of Shiegra the lioness makes Necile gasp.
NECILE (cont’d)
Shiegra! You… you know me Shiegra, it’s Necile. Yes, I know I’ve ventured further than I’m allowed but… I just had to see the child. You understand that don’t you? You are already a mother and I…
AK
(appearing)
And you wish to be a mother, Necile.
NECILE
Great Ak!
AK
Calm yourself, Shiegra, I will handle my wood-nymph.
Shiegra settles.
NECILE
I apologise, Master Woodsman, I —
AK
For the first time within my knowledge, a nymph has defied me and my laws.
NECILE
Great Ak, please —
AK
And yet in my heart I can find no word of chiding. What is your desire, Necile?
NECILE
My desire, great one? You wish to know my desire?
AK
I sense I already know it, but I wish to hear you say it.
NECILE
Let… let me keep the child.
AK
Here? In the Forest of Burzee? Where the human race has never yet entered?
NECILE
(excited and pleading)
Yes… yes, in the Forest of Burzee. It’s my home, and … let me care for it, Great Ak. See how weak and helpless it is! Surely it cannot harm Burzee. Nor the Master Woodsman of the World!
AK
But the Law, child, the Law.
NECILE
You make the Law, Master Woodsman. If you bid me care for the babe — that you yourself saved from death — who in all the world dare oppose me?
AK
You make a fair point, young Necile. And I sense you have a need for something beyond your own world to care for.
(pause. Then dramatically, decreeing to the world)
You may keep the babe, and I will give it my protection. But I warn you all that this is the first time I have relaxed the Law, so shall it be the last time. Never more, to the end of the world, shall a mortal be adopted by an immortal. Otherwise would we abandon our happy existence for one of trouble and anxiety.
NECILE
I understand, Master Woodsman. Thank you! Thank you!
AK
What shall you call him, Necile?
NECILE
What?
AK
He must have a name, you know. What shall you call your new child?
NECILE
I… Let him be called ‘Claus’. In the language of the Nymphs it means ‘Little One’.
AK
Perhaps you could call him ‘Neclaus’ instead? Then he would be ‘Necile’s Little One’
NECILE
(lovingly)
Claus. My lovely, little, adorable Claus…
EXT. FORREST OF BURZEE
Transition through the forest, as we hear the little Claus grow from a baby to a toddler, through to a child, playing and laughing.
CLAUS (V.O.)
Some of you may have worked it out already, but for those who haven’t — that little baby was me. And Necile proved to be as wonderful a mother as any growing boy could have wished for. I had no lack for anything, and flourished in the Great Forest. Day by day I grew, surrounded by the magic of the Immortals. News soon reached the others that I had been adopted by the Nymphs, and many came to visit the new stranger to Burzee throughout my life. I rode cheerfully upon the shoulders of the merry Ryls, mischievously pulling the grey beards of the low-browed Knooks, and I even spent days with the Fairy Queen herself. The Ryls loved the sound of my laughter. The Knooks loved my courage. And the Fairies loved my innocence. And I made friends with them all.
And as the years passed, and I grew older, soon too big to lie in Necile’s lap. I spent my days exploring the Forest and learning the ways of the creatures of Burzee. Soon I could sing the songs of the bees, recite the poetry of the wood-flowers and relate the history of every blinking owl. I helped the Ryls to feed their plants and the Knooks to keep order amongst the animals. I was happy and content.
Claus — now a teenager — explores the forest. He’s followed by RYL and KNOOK who are part playing with him, part caring for him.
CLAUS
This way! It went this way!
RYL
Watch the flowers, Claus!
KNOOK
You’re always on about your plants.
RYL
I’m a Ryl, it’s what we do.
KNOOK
Well he’s fascinated by an animal right now, and —
RYL
And that just makes you the happiest thing ever, doesn’t it?
KNOOK
Hush, he’s getting away from us.
RYL
Claus!
CLAUS
(far away)
Can’t wait for you slow pokes!
RYL
(lazily)
He has a point. We should wait here under these trees a while.
KNOOK
You wait, I’m following Claus.
He rushes off after Claus. Ryl is close behind.
RYL
You’re not leaving me behind!
EXT. BURZEE CLEARING – DAY
A cat miaows helplessly. Claus approaches it.
CLAUS
Blink blink. Blink blink.
The cat miaows again. Knook and Ryl approach.
KNOOK
What have you found there, Claus?
CLAUS
It’s a cat!
KNOOK
So it is.
CLAUS
It’s blinking at me.
RYL
Cause it’s staring into the sun.
CLAUS
It’s all…. blinky.
RYL
Mortals can be so stupid sometimes…
CLAUS
You’re stupid, Ryl. Go paint a tree.
JACK FROST
(approaching)
Now now, mustn’t have bickering in the magical forest of Burzee now, must we?
KNOOK
Jack Frost!
JACK FROST
(mock surprise)
Where??? Oh! You mean me!
RYL
I thought it felt cold here.
CLAUS
Are you following me?
JACK FROST
No, I’m merely taking a stroll in the woods. The mortal world is in summer, so there’s not a lot to do right now for the likes of me. I’m wondering what you’re doing to this poor cat. It must have wandered in from the outside world.
CLAUS
Outside world? You mean, the mortal realm?
JACK FROST
It’s rare that we get strays into Burzee, but I’ve heard of worse. Do you like him, Claus?
CLAUS
He blinks a lot.
RYL
Cause of the sun.
CLAUS
But he’s very pretty. Are there more like him out there?
JACK FROST
Oh, little Claus. There are sooo many wonderful and marvellous things out there in the mortal world. So many good people to meet… but there’s danger too. Not everything is as cute as this blinking cat out there. Best stay put in your magic forest, don’t you think?
CLAUS
Stay put? You mean… I could leave? If I wanted?
JACK FROST
Now, that wouldn’t make the Great Ak or the sweet Necile happy now, would it? Pretend I didn’t say anything… you’d best be getting back home now, surely? You’re very close to the edge of the Forest, little Claus…
EXT. FORREST OF BURZEE
The scene is similar to the Budding Day ceremony before. Great Ak strides through the forest.
CLAUS (V.O.)
The mortal world? It was the first time I had properly understood that I was from a world very different from the places I’d known. And my imagination was sparked.
Then one day, Great Ak returned to the Forest of Burzee, and I was finally able to meet the Master Woodsman of the World to whom I owed by life. And I had questions.
AK
(striding into the clearing)
I have visited, in turn, all my forests in the world — and I can assure you all that they are many and broad…
(he trails off)
No… could this strapping young man be little Claus?
NECILE
This is he, Great Ak. Come along, Claus, greet the Master Woodsman.
CLAUS
I… welcome back to Burzee, Great Ak. I trust your journey was well?
AK
It was indeed, young man. I see a life in my enchanted forest has done you well.
CLAUS
The Nymphs have been good to me, sir.
AK
I am certain they have.
NECILE
We are very proud of our Claus, Great Ak.
AK
‘Claus’ means ‘Little One’, and he’s not so little anymore. Are you, boy?
CLAUS
No, sir.
AK
But I see in your eyes that your heart is good. I see great things in your future, Claus. Great things.
CLAUS
Thank you, sir.
AK
Was there something else?
CLAUS
Yes… I was wondering if you could tell me more about where I’m from? The world where you found me?
NECILE
Claus, you don’t need to know about —
CLAUS
I want to know about people like me, Great Ak, and you’ve travelled the forests of the world and know of others like me, haven’t you? Sir?
Pause.
AK
Perhaps it is time to show you what is out there. We will meet again, little Claus.
He walks off.
CLAUS (V.O.)
I didn’t understand then what the Great Ak meant. I merely looked upon him in awe — as a teenager tends to do when he comes face to face with a god. And it was the very next morning I was to learn what the Master Woodsman of the World had in mind for little me.
EXT. BURZEE CLEARING – MORNING
Great Ak walks into the clearing followed by Claus.
AK
You must bid goodbye to Necile and her sisters for a time, young Claus. I wish you to accompany me.
CLAUS
Accompany you, Great Ak? Me?
AK
You asked to see something of the world from which you came. I understand you’ve been speaking with Jack Frost and he’s put ideas in your head. And fair enough too — you can only learn so much from the Knooks and the Ryls.
CLAUS
Yes sir.
AK
Place your hand upon my girdle and hold fast while we journey through the air. For now we shall encircle the world and look upon those from whom you are descended.
CLAUS
(reaching for Ak’s belt)
Like this?
AK
Just like that. Now hold fast, as we encircle the world!
There’s a whoosh of magic and a rush of air as they disappear.
CLAUS
Great Ak! I’m scared!
AK
Fear not, Claus! You have my protection!
CLAUS
But we’re a long way into the sky!
AK
It is how must shall travel to the human world!
More whooshes as the two disappear.
EXT. EMERALD CITY STREET – DAY
It’s the green city we all know and love. Claus and Ak appear in the middle of the square, but nobody reacts.
AK
We have arrived.
CLAUS
Where are we?
AK
This place is known to those who live here as the City of Emeralds. I have brought you to the Land of Oz. You will come to know its people, as I sense you will know all people.
CLAUS
They… can they see us?
AK
Not while you hold fast to my girdle. You must not let go, Claus, for to release your grasp will be to separate yourself forever from me and your home in Burzee.
CLAUS
I’ll hold on tight then.
AK
Good. What do you see, young Claus?
CLAUS
I… I see humans. People, like myself. I had no idea there were so many like me!
AK
Indeed, the immortals are few, but the mortals are many.
CLAUS
So I see – ahh!
A couple of children rush past, laughing and cackling. WEEKUM, a boy of about 7 or 8 and MAYRIE, a girl of 4.
MAYRIE
Weekum! Come back Weekum! You’re going too fast!
WEEKUM
Can’t catch me you know!
They head off into the distance.
CLAUS
Children! Those are children, aren’t they?
AK
You were a child yourself not that long ago.
CLAUS
But I never met any others like me. They look so happy.
AK
Do all of them look happy?
CLAUS
No. Not all of them. There are hungry children over there. Begging for food, and nobody’s feeding them.
AK
Childhood is the time of humanity’s greatest content. It is during these years of innocent pleasure that the little ones are most free from care.
CLAUS
But they’re not all free from care. Tell me, Great Ak, why don’t all these children fare alike?
AK
Because they are born in both cottage and palace. The difference in the wealth of the parents determines the lot of the child. Some are carefully clothed in fine silks and dainty linen. Others are neglected and covered in rags.
CLAUS
And yet all these children seem equally fair and sweet.
AK
While they are children, this is true. Their joy is in being alive, and they do not stop to think.
CLAUS
And when they grow up?
AK
Ahh. This is another thing altogether. Come, Claus. We have much to see.
CLAUS (V.O.)
And so Great Ak took me through the Emerald City streets and the neighbouring towns, and showed me the mortals of Oz. There was a small girl in the streets of Winkieland who could barely be two years old, chasing a rabbit. She was so skinny that she clearly hadn’t eaten in days. And we saw the children of a Munchkin farmer, putting the final touches to a scarecrow in their field, and enjoying the act of painting his pumpkin-shaped face. Children from many ways of life, and infinite backgrounds, learning the ways of their world.
INT. EMERALD CITY PALACE
Ak and Claus appear in the palace.
CLAUS (V.O.)
However it was in the Palace of the Emerald City I was to see the true extent of what faced humanity.
A spoiled child – AZKEDELIA – rants and raves at her silent servants.
AZKEDELIA
I said I wanted dessert! Where is my dessert! Bring it to me at once!
CLAUS
Who have you brought me to, Great Ak?
AK
This is Princess Azkedelia of the Emerald City. One day she will rule the land of Oz, when she ceases to be a child.
AZKEDELIA
I don’t want to ask again! Bring me my pudding now!
CLAUS
Then I pity for the people of Oz!
AK
Do you not pity for the child? See her misery.
CLAUS
Misery? She lives in such comfort and decadence in this palace. How can she want for anything?
AK
Even in an extravagant home like this, a child can be miserable. And she is acting on her sadness in the only way she knows how.
CLAUS
What could make her sad here?
We hear the giggling of a creature nearby – an AWGWA, demonic hellbeast.
AK
I wonder indeed.
CLAUS
What is that, Great Ak?
AK
That, Claus, is an Awgwa. They feed on the misery of mortals.
The Awgwa cackles. The servants approach the princess.
AZKEDELIA
You took long enough, servants! Bring that pudding over here … no I wanted chocolate, not banana! Can’t you do anything right? Can’t you?
She throws the bowl of pudding to the ground. The Awgwa giggles.
CLAUS
That creature is doing this! It’s using the poor girl. The angrier she gets, the more it feeds!
AK
Do not let go of my girdle, Claus!
CLAUS
But we have to help her! We have to stop that thing! Can’t you see it, making the princess act this way?
AK
We are not able to interfere. It is not the way of the Immortals.
CLAUS
You helped me, Great Ak! When I was a baby. Why won’t you help her?
AK
It is not the way of the Immortals!
CLAUS
But I’m not an immortal!
AK
(pause)
No, Claus. You are not.
CLAUS
I can’t just stand by and let them make children miserable. I can’t…
They disappear again, and the Awgwa continues to cackle.
EXT. BURZEE CLEARING
Ak and Claus appear.
AK
I believe our journey is over. What did you learn, little Claus?
Pause
CLAUS
Are the Awgwas everywhere, Great Ak?
AK
Wherever there is sadness. Wherever an innocent suffers, there are the Awgwas. It is the way of the world.
CLAUS
I see.
AK
What are you thinking, Claus? What is in your mind?
(pause)
I had hoped that by showing you this, you would learn the dangers of the mortal world. That it is best for you, and for us all, that you think no further about leaving. Here, you are safe. Burzee will protect you from the demons mortals cannot see. Think upon my words, Claus. And do not be tempted by the world outside.
Great Ak walks away, leaving Claus on his own.
The music of “Don’t Tempt Me” begins.
VOICES OF THE FOREST
(singing)
Don’t tempt me!
Don’t tempt me!
Please let me go…
Out where the sun is shining,
Where there are people smiling,
Out there, the world is glowing,
Out in the world I’m going!
Out there!
Where there are crazy creatures,
Famous, fantastic features.
Every place, every item,
One day just watch me see ‘em —
Out there!
Don’t tempt me, please no.
No really, don’t tempt me, ‘cause I might go.
Living in this strange world, day after day
While I’m trapped by these same four trees.
With the universe right there, one step away.
One day I will step out… and go!
Out where the world is ending.
Out where it’s just beginning.
Out where the sky is falling.
Maybe just rain is pouring?
Out there!
Out where it isn’t scary,
Danger for the unwary.
Don’t even want to think it –
Wanting so much to risk it!
Please just don’t tempt me…
Everyone tells me stay on your own,
Stay where you are, stay safe.
Sure, they’re gonna be right –- but how do I know?
The urge is so strong to go…
The music continues underscored as we move to…
EXT. FORREST OF BURZEE
The Nymphs and other Immortals gather around Claus, as he tells his news. Necile and Ak listen on
NECILE
Claus? What is this? What are you saying?
CLAUS
Necile, you have been kind to me — all the nymphs have been. But I have looked upon the mortals, and … they’re inspiring! They’re doomed to live for a brief space upon earth, to toil for the things they need, to fade into old age and then pass away as the leaves in Autumn. Yet every mortal has a mission — to leave the world in some way better than as they found it.
NECILE
I see.
CLAUS
And I am of the race of humans, and their lot is my lot.
NECILE
What will you do?
CLAUS
I must devote myself to the care of the children of humanity, and try to make them happy. Just as you did for me when I was a child. I will endeavour to make their world better than as I found it.
AK
I had hoped our journey would have shown you the dangers of the mortal world, Claus. But perhaps you have a greater calling. Yet one thing must not be forgotten. Having been adopted as the child of the Forest, and the playfellow of the nymphs, you have gained a distinction which forever separates you from your kind. Therefore, when you go forth into the mortal world you shall retain the protection of the Forest. And the powers you now enjoy will remain with you to assist you in your labours. In any need you may call upon the Nymphs, the Ryls, the Knooks and the Fairies, and they will serve you gladly. I, the Master Woodsman of the World, have said it, and my Word is the Law!
CLAUS
Thank you, Great Ak. I will honour you! I will honour the Forest of Burzee!
The music swells, and the voices burst out into one final chorus:
VOICES OF THE FOREST
(singing)
Out where the snow is falling,
Freezing cold wind is blowing.
I would be bloody freezing,
It would be worth the feeling!
Out there!
Out where there’s people laughing,
Finding your friends enchanting,
Wasting time, being somewhere –-
How much I want to be there!
How much I want…
Don’t tempt me — I’ll go!
INT. AWGWAS DOMAIN
In the underground hell of the world of the Awgwas, the demonic creatures scurry around and giggle at each other. In a central dais sits KING AWGWA, their ruler, who speaks with a deep, resonant voice of the devil himself. A minion scurries to the throne.
AWGWA
Your Majesty! Your Majesty! Apologies your Majesty…
KING AWGWA
You may speak, minion.
AWGWA
The oracles have sensed something. There has been —
KING AWGWA
There has been a change. I too have felt it. Something new has arrived in the world. Something new, and yet older than anything…
AWGWA
From where?
KING AWGWA
From where else? The Immortals! Show me Burzee!
With a whoosh, an image of Claus appears. He’s singing.
KING AWGWA (cont’d)
A boy. Just a boy.
AWGWA
What does it mean, your Majesty?
KING AWGWA
I do not know — not yet. But this boy, this… the word in the Nymph language is Claus, and he is truly a little one. I don’t think the Awgwas have anything to fear from this human. Yet.
AWGWA
Yet?
KING AWGWA
We shall watch him. For something has truly changed in the world, now that he has entered it.
Claus continues to whistle on the image. We zoom in to join him…
EXT. LAUGHING VALLEY
Claus walks his way down the valley, whistling and cheery. He’s singing a reprise of “Don’t Tempt Me”. Knook and Ryl are with him.
CLAUS
(singing)
Out where the birds are singing
Out where the ducks are quacking
Out where the flowers blooming
Out in the world I’m zooming!
KNOOK
He’s singing again…
RYL
He’s not going to do this through the whole thing is he?
Claus stops suddenly. The music cuts out.
CLAUS
Here!
KNOOK
What?
CLAUS
It’s right here!
RYL
What’s right here?
CLAUS
(too excited)
Can’t you see it??
KNOOK
You’re talking stupid again, Claus.
RYL
And singing.
KNOOK
Maybe you should go back to Necile.
CLAUS
No look — this is where I can live!
RYL
Here?
CLAUS
Yes, here! Look at the hills, look at how they swoop down into the valley with the … the…
RYL
Cowslips?
CLAUS
Yeah, and the… the…
RYL
Daisies.
CLAUS
Those too!
RYL
If you’re going to settle here, Claus, then you had better learn the names of the flowers.
CLAUS
I will!
KNOOK
What about the name of the place? It’s rude to settle somewhere and not know its name.
CLAUS
(chuckling)
It’s called… The Laughing Valley.
KNOOK
How do you know that?
CLAUS
Because I just named it that — it makes me laugh.
(laughing)
The Laughing Valley of Hohaho!
He stretches his arms out wide and exclaims with exuberance.
CLAUS (cont’d)
(shouting)
Here! Here is where I will make my home!!!!!
CLAUS (V.O.)
And so I did. Together with the Knooks and the Ryls, and my other friends from the Forest, we built a small house for me to settle in — as humans ought to do. We used wood from fallen trees — never living trees, my time with the Nymphs taught me those are sacred. The Knooks helped me assemble the house itself. The Fairies brought me skillets and pots and dishes and pans and all the tools necessary to prepare food and to comfort a mortal. The Ryls provided grain for bread and fruit and flowers and anything else I should need to sustain me.
So began my life in the Laughing Valley, with the favour and friendship of the Immortals to minister to my every want. And soon it was time for me to join my fellow mortals and begin what I had come to do.
EXT. EMERALD CITY
Just as busy as before. Claus walks the streets, now able to interact and is doing so awkwardly.
CLAUS
This is wonderful! What a wonderfully green city this is!
(to passers by)
Good morning human! Oh, pleasant day mortal person! Look at me — talking to people just like me!
PASSER-BY
Get out of the road, you fool!
CLAUS
And a very happy day to you too sir! Oh I can see that the people here are very friendly! Whoah!
He jumps as a carriage rattles past.
CLAUS (cont’d)
(calling after them)
I’m sorry! I perhaps should not have been standing there.
He pauses, then sees a group of children playing nearby. He approaches, and they stop
CLAUS (cont’d)
Oh, hello there little ones. What are you doing?
WEEKUM
We’re just playing.
CLAUS
Interesting! Very interesting! What are you playing?
WEEKUM
Skipping rope.
CLAUS
Really!
WEEKUM
We’re allowed you know!
CLAUS
I’m sure you are, and you look like you’re having a lot of fun. Do you mind if I join in?
WEEKUM
You? You’re a grown up.
CLAUS
Yes, so?
WEEKUM
Grown ups can’t play games.
CLAUS
Whatever gave you that idea? Some of the oldest beings I know play nothing but games with each other. Have you ever heard of the Immortals?
WEEKUM
No.
CLAUS
Trust me, you’ll never find a more… yes, well, story time later. Games now! Start swinging that rope around, I think I can see how this works…
WEEKUM
If you say so…
They start swinging the skipping rope. Claus sizes it up.
CLAUS
Yes… yes, I see… I think I can… right one… two… three!
He jumps in and immediately gets tangled and hits the ground. The kids find it hilarious.
CLAUS (cont’d)
Oh, right, very funny. Ow…
WEEKUM
Did you hurt your bum?
CLAUS
Yes I did.
WEEKUM
You’re silly.
CLAUS
What better way to be? Help me up please. I’m going to try again.
WEEKUM
You what?
The child helps him up.
CLAUS
If at first you don’t succeed —
WEEKUM
Give up because you’re old and you’ll break something?
CLAUS
Shh! Positive thinking! Now —
PASSER-BY
What are you doing!
CLAUS
Oh! Hello! Look, it’s another adult — maybe they want to play too?
PASSER-BY
(to the kids)
How many times have we told you, don’t talk to strangers!
WEEKUM
Oh he’s not a stranger. He’s fun.
PASSER-BY
You don’t even know his name.
CLAUS
Ah yes, quite right, I haven’t introduced myself. My name is Claus, it means –
PASSER-BY
You are far too old to be playing games with kids.
CLAUS
Am I? Surely —
PASSER-BY
Go away! Leave my son alone and go back where you came from!
The adult drags the children away.
WEEKUM
Bye Claus!
CLAUS
See you next time, little one!
(to himself)
I presume there was a lesson for me in that…
EXT. PALACE GATES
CLAUS (V.O.)
Not yet put off, I explored deeper into the City, and soon found the entrance to the Great Palace…
CLAUS
Last time I was here, Great Ak took me inside, and there was that very upset princess… I bet I could cheer her up now she can see me!
He rings a big doorbell. A Guardian opens the door.
GUARDIAN
Who rang that bell?
CLAUS
I did!
GUARDIAN
Can’t you read?
CLAUS
Read what?
GUARDIAN
The notice!
CLAUS
What notice?
GUARDIAN
It’s on the door, as plain as the nose on my face!
CLAUS
Then why shouldn’t I just read the nose on your face then?
GUARDIAN
Are you wasting my time? Get out of here.
CLAUS
I’m sorry, my little joke. I’ll read your notice… “No Admittance Until Noon”
GUARDIAN
So go away.
CLAUS
I’m sorry, I didn’t realise — but since you’re here, I’d like to see the princess please.
GUARDIAN
Oh you would, would you?
CLAUS
She looks as if she needs a friend.
GUARDIAN
Princess Azkedelia doesn’t need the likes of you, now hop it.
CLAUS
Please, I’ve come such a long way already. Perhaps if I could —
GUARDIAN
Are you hard of hearing as well as stupid?
CLAUS
There is no reason to be rude, you know.
GUARDIAN
No, but it makes me happy. Go on, get out of here, before King Braun has you arrested for loitering.
CLAUS
Yes but —
GUARDIAN
Get! Lost!
He slams the hatch. Claus sighs.
CLAUS
Perhaps I should just go home then? The Knooks and Ryls will be happy for my company I guess…
He starts to walk down the path and is stopped by Weekum.
WEEKUM
Hey Mr Grown Up!
CLAUS
Little one? Hello again! Should you be here, didn’t your parent —
WEEKUM
I escaped. I wanted to give you this.
Weekum passes over the skipping rope.
CLAUS
Your skipping rope?
WEEKUM
Yeah. Get some practice in before your next visit, huh?
CLAUS
What’s your name?
WEEKUM
Weekum, mister.
CLAUS
Thank you, Weekum! I appreciate the gift!
WEEKUM
See you next time Mr Claus!
The kid runs off.
CLAUS
Yes! Thank you! Until next time!
He’s very awed by the gift.
EXT. LAUGHING VALLEY
Claus makes his way home to his front door. It’s lightly snowing.
CLAUS (V.O.)
A gift from a child! I could barely believe it! And I decided then to take it home immediately and treasure it, while I considered what I could do for the child in return.
But when I arrived at the front door of my house, the cold, icy grimace of an old familiar face awaited me.
JACK FROST
Well! You took your time, young man!
CLAUS
Go away, Jack Frost. You’ll not freeze my toes this time.
JACK FROST
Oh, you’re no fun since you decided to be all mortal.
CLAUS
Humanity needs me.
JACK FROST
Heheh, do they? Not from what I saw.
CLAUS
Stop spying on me, and go find something better to do.
JACK FROST
Oh, I’ll get there. Ohhh, there’s rare sport for me tonight, Claus! Look at the gloriously cool weather! I’ll be nipping scores of noses and ears and toes before daybreak!
CLAUS
Jack, please, spare the children.
JACK FROST
And why?
CLAUS
Because they’re tender and helpless!
JACK FROST
Oooh, but I love it when they’re tender! The older ones are tough and tire out my fingers.
CLAUS
The younger ones are weak and can’t fight you.
JACK FROST
All the better… Come on, Claus, you used to laugh at my games, what happened? You can’t be that human already, surely?
CLAUS
I want there to be more good in the world, Jack Frost. And you just hurt people.
JACK FROST
Suit yourself. It’s going to be a cold one — the snow is already settling. Better get inside and all nice and warm like a good little human.
CLAUS
Thank you, I’ll do just that.
JACK FROST
I might start by chasing some of the wild reindeer through the forest. They’re a good challenge to practice on — they travel across snow soooo well.
CLAUS
Have a good time, Jack.
JACK FROST
Bye Claus! Don’t get frostbite now!!!
He disappears.
CLAUS
(he opens the door and goes in)
Poor villagers.
INT. HOUSE
Inside Claus’s house. Fire burns in the corner, it’s very homely. Claus enters, closes the door and makes his way through the room. A cat miaows.
CLAUS
He’s right. It’s definitely getting cold out there.
Blinkie miaows.
CLAUS (cont’d)
Yes, Blinkie, it’s cold! You should stay in here like a good cat, otherwise the likes of Jack Frost will get at you. Stay by the fire.
(pause)
I had a good day today. I met some lovely people. I mean, some of them weren’t very nice. And some of them were actually a bit mean. But I guess that’s the way of people — you can’t be friends with everyone.
Blinkie miaows — what’s that?
CLAUS (cont’d)
This? It’s a skipping rope. One of the… things from the children. They gave it to me. I wish I had something I could give to them in return…
(a beat)
I probably won’t see them again for a while. Jack’s getting carried away out there, the snow’s getting deep. Winter is here, Blinkie! It’ll be just you and me for a while.
Blinkie miaows.
CLAUS (V.O.)
As I settled in for my first winter in the Laughing Valley, I absent-mindedly picked up a small block of wood from beside the fireplace. Taking a sharp knife, I started to whittle away at it, while I talked to Blinkie and told him all about my day. As the night went on, I realised the block had begun to take shape. It started to look a bit like a cat, with two ears sticking upward.
CLAUS
(chuckling)
Look, Blinkie, it’s you!
CLAUS (V.O.)
So I kept carving, shaping out its eyes, its nose, the lower part of the head flowing down into a long body and a tail wound around its legs. It took most of the night — but by morning I had a very good replica of Blinkie himself.
Blinkie hisses.
CLAUS
Now, Blinkie, stop that, it’s not a real cat, don’t be silly. But doesn’t it look a lot like you? It’s a… it’s a toy. That’s what it is! A brand new toy!
INT. AWGWAS DOMAIN
The King Awgwa listens in to Claus and his new toy.
CLAUS
(on screen)
Don’t you like the toy, Blinkie? Isn’t it pretty.
KING AWGWA
And soon everything is starting to become clear… This Claus will be a threat to us!
INT. HOUSE
A snowstorm whooshes outside, while Claus sits by the fireplace.
CLAUS (V.O.)
A hush lay on the Laughing Valley now. Snow covered it like a white spread and pillows of downy flakes drifted past my house. The brook gurgled on beneath a heavy sheet of ice and all living plants and insects nestled close to Mother Earth to keep warm. The face of the moon was hid by dark clouds and the wind, delighting in the wintry sport, pushed and whirled the snowflakes in so many directions that they could get no chance to fall to the ground. It was nights like this one I was thankful for the Knooks for building my comfortable shelter.
On this particular night, in the middle of winter, something happened that I did not expect in a million years…
There’s a tap at the door and a slight cry.
CLAUS
Did you hear that Blinkie?
Cat miaows.
CLAUS (cont’d)
That’s what I thought. Someone seems to be at the door…
(he gets up)
But who’d be out in this horrific weather?
He opens the door and steps out.
EXT. LAUGHING VALLEY
Wind and snow howl around Claus as he steps out of the house.
CLAUS
Hello? Hello, is anybody there? If you’re out here, you must be terribly cold right now. Hello?
(pause)
Must have imagined it. Oh well, I —
Claus stumbles and falls into the snow.
CLAUS (cont’d)
Stupid ice! Argh, now I’m all wet…
CLAUS (V.O.)
I stopped, when I realised that the snow drift I had fallen across was not as it seemed. For within contained a small hand…
CLAUS
A child? Jack Frost!! I told you to leave the children! Not the children!!!
(quieter)
Come on, little one, up you get, let’s get you inside…
Claus picks up the child and brings it into the house.
INT. HOUSE
The door slams and Claus rushes the child to the fireplace. Blinkie miaows in surprise.
CLAUS
Yes, Blinkie, it’s a child. We need to get him warm. Here we go, by the fire.
(He puts him down)
I know this boy. It’s the boy who gave me the skipping rope! Ahhh… Weekum! That’s it. Can you hear me Weekum?
WEEKUM
(weakly)
C-Claus?
CLAUS
Yes! Yes, it’s me.
WEEKUM
I-I-I’m so c-c-cold…
CLAUS
I know, and we’re going to warm you up. Here let’s get this blanket around you and keep you by the fire… What were you doing out there in the cold, little one?
WEEKUM
I was trying to get to my auntie’s house. But I lost my way.
CLAUS
You sure did. What a night to be out in the snow! But it’s all right, you’re safe now. You can stay here for tonight and tomorrow we’ll get you back to your parents in the City.
WEEKUM
Thank you, Claus.
CLAUS
It’s the least I can do.
(he gets up)
Here, let me get you a warm drink. Do you like cocoa?
WEEKUM
Yes.
(a beat)
I like your cat.
CLAUS
Thank you, that’s Blinkie. The Knooks brought him to me during the Autumn for company.
WEEKUM
Can I hold him?
Blinkie miaows loudly — a definite no.
CLAUS
I think Blinkie has decided against that. But here, try this one. He won’t mind a bit — he’s made of wood.
He brings the wooden cat to Weekum.
WEEKUM
It’s a toy cat.
CLAUS
Exactly.
WEEKUM
Can it sleep with me? To help keep me warm?
CLAUS
I have a better idea, Weekum. Why not keep it forever?
WEEKUM
Really? Forever and ever?
CLAUS
If you want it, why not. Consider it a present!
CLAUS (V.O.)
My very first present. And Weekum held it close all night, and couldn’t be parted with it for the entire journey back to his home. And when he saw his mother for the first time, after a traumatic night in a snow storm, the first thing he said was:
WEEKUM
Look Mum! Look! I’ve got a toy cat!!
CLAUS (V.O.)
The joy that little wooden cat brought that boy was beautiful — and infectious. It made me so happy to see him happy.
Alas, it did not make others happy…
INT. AWGWAS DOMAIN
King Awgwa addresses his minions.
KING AWGWA
This Claus is turning the fears and pain of the children of the world into joy and happiness. He cannot be allowed to continue. Gather, my Awgwas. It is time that we take action against this mortal. He must not put any more good into this world! Find him! Find Claus and stop him!
EXT. LAUGHING VALLEY
Claus makes his way down the path towards the Emerald City.
CLAUS
I don’t know why I didn’t think of this before! If one little wooden cat can make Weekum pleased, then five of them will make five children happy! Oh I can’t wait to see their little faces when they see what I’ve made them.
The dark laugh of an Awgwa comes nearby. Claus stops.
CLAUS (cont’d)
What was that? Jack Frost, if that’s you, go away! The winter is over, you’ve done enough harm.
AWGWA
We don’t bring the frost…
CLAUS
Oh no… Awgwas! Stay away from me you horrid little creatures! Keep back! Stop! Stop! Put me down! Put me down at once!!!
The Awgwas close in and fly him away screaming.
EXT. JUNGLE
Screeching, scary, evil jungle of death. The Awgwas swoop in carrying Claus, who’s still crying out. They drop him in the bushes with a thump.
AWGWA
(flying away)
Enjoy your new home, toymaker! Try making people happy there!
CLAUS
(scared)
W-w-where am I? I… I don’t know this place. It’s not at all like Burzee…
A bird or jackal or something loud screeches nearby. A panther growls and moves closer. Claus jumps and panics.
CLAUS (cont’d)
Native jungle predators. As expected. Probably going to try and eat me… don’t suppose you want a little wooden cat do you?
(creature growls)
Thought not. Ok, I need to get back to the Laughing Valley. Need to get home, need to get home… Knooks!
(shouting)
Come to me, ye Knooks of the Forest! HEEEELP!!!!
With a magical whoosh, the JUNGLE KNOOKS arrive (played by the same actor as the standard Knook)
JUNGLE KNOOK
Who are you that call us?
CLAUS
The friend of your brothers in Burzee. I’ve been brought here by my enemies, the Awgwas, and left to perish miserably. Yet now I implore your help to release me and send me home again.
JUNGLE KNOOK
Have you the sign?
CLAUS
The sign? Oh, yes, the sign! Umm, goes like this.
He wiggles his arms about.
JUNGLE KNOOK
Our brothers of Burzee make strange friends.
CLAUS
Well thank you very much.
JUNGLE KNOOK
But he who knows our secret sign and signal is entitled to our help, whoever he may be. Close your eyes, stranger, and we will conduct you to your home.
CLAUS
Thank you — do you know of the Laughing Valley?
JUNGLE KNOOK
There is but one Laughing Valley in the known world, so we cannot go astray.
The voice of the Jungle Knook fades away, as does the jungle itself, as Claus disappears.
EXT. FORREST OF BURZEE
CLAUS (V.O.)
So the Jungle Knooks sent me home, just as I asked. And that very same day I returned to the Forest of Burzee to speak with my old friends.
Claus sits with Necile.
CLAUS
… and if it wasn’t for the Knooks from that strange place, I’d never have found my way back.
NECILE
Oh poor little one. It seems the Awgwas have become your enemies.
CLAUS
What did I ever do to them?
NECILE
To them? You did nothing. You’ve not so much as spoken to an Awgwa before today. But for some, the very existence of a person is enough to get their attention.
CLAUS
Is it because I’m a bad human? There were people in the city who were mean and spoke to me —
NECILE
No! By the Great Ak, no, Neclaus. You have the purest heart in all the world. And all you seek is to put more goodness into it. For some creatures, this is abhorrent to them. By their very nature they will seek to stamp out goodness and spread their own misery.
CLAUS
Should I stop? I don’t want the Awgwas to hurt me, or the people around me.
NECILE
Exactly the opposite. Keep doing good, Claus. Keep making people happy. Keep making the world around you a better place — make the world happier for you being in it. And never let the darkness of the Awgwas overcome you. They can only triumph if you let them.
INT. HOUSE
CLAUS (V.O.)
So I returned home. And I picked up my knife and a new block of wood, and set about making a new toy, putting my ordeal with the Awgwas behind me. And inspired by my reunion with Necile — and a little tired of carving cats, if I’m honest — I fashioned from the wood a new shape. Arms, legs, head… I was creating a miniature nymph, just like Necile. When I had the shape together, I began to paint it in all the colours of the Forest of Burzee, giving the figure long wavy hair and bright blue eyes and a gown of oakleaves…
There’s a knock at the door. Blinkie hisses.
CLAUS
Oh calm down, Blinkie. We’re allowed to have visitors.
He puts down the toy and crosses to open the door. A very young little girl stands there.
CLAUS (cont’d)
Hello?
MAYRIE
Is you Tlaus?
CLAUS
Indeed I am, my dear! And you are most welcome!
(Blinkie meows)
Ignore Blinkie, he’s grumpy cause I haven’t fed him his dinner yet. What’s your name?
MAYRIE
I’m Mayrie
CLAUS
Nice to meet you Mayrie. Now, why have you made this long journey to see me?
MAYRIE
I wants a tat!
CLAUS
Tat? Oh! Oh you want my toy cats, do you?
MAYRIE
Yes! Tat!
CLAUS
Oh that’s lovely! That’s… oh. I’m sorry, Mayrie, but unfortunately I haven’t got any left.
MAYRIE
(crying)
But… I–I-I wants a t-t-tat now…
CLAUS
Oh, please, don’t cry little one. Don’t be sad. I… I have a toy much nicer than a cat it’s brand new. Would you like to have a look?
MAYRIE
Yes please.
CLAUS
One moment.
(He collects the nymph from the table and gives it to Mayrie)
Her name is ‘Necile’. I just finished her. Careful, the paint is still a bit wet.
MAYRIE
Ooooh.
CLAUS
Do you like her?
MAYRIE
Dolly.
CLAUS
What?
MAYRIE
I call her a dolly!
CLAUS
Oh! Well, if that’s what you want to name her, then why not! Dolly. I like it.
MAYRIE
Hello Dolly!
CLAUS
(chuckling)
Yes, quite.
EXT. EMERALD CITY
The streets are busy — as always — but now with a happier tone. People are laughing and joyous, for Claus is walking the streets handing out presents from a sack.
CLAUS
(laughing)
And here’s a cat for you. And a little dog for you. And you, you can have this little fairy. Look at it’s tiny wings, isn’t it cute?
(laugh)
Come on up, everyone, I’ve made all these lovely toys for you all!
WEEKUM
Thank you Claus!
CLAUS
You’re quite welcome Weekum! Don’t be shy, children! I’ve got so many toys in my sack — you can’t make me take them back to the Laughing Valley now, can you?
Mayrie approaches.
CLAUS (cont’d)
Hello Mayrie, what’s wrong?
MAYRIE
I’ve — I’ve bwoke my dolly!
CLAUS
How?
MAYRIE
I dwopped her an’ bwoke off her arm, an’– an’– then I dwopped her an’ bowke off her ear! An’– an’ now she’s all spoilt!
CLAUS
(laughing)
Nevermind, how would you like this new little fairy instead?
MAYRIE
Oooh Tlaus! ‘tan I have ‘at boo’ful lady?
CLAUS
You like it?
MAYRIE
I love it! It’s better than a dolly!
CLAUS
Then take it my dear! Be careful not to break it!
Trumpets herald further down the street. The crowd hushes as a guarded escort approach.
GUARDIAN
Make way for her Royal Highness Princess Azkedelia!
Azkedelia approaches and the crowd is awed. She walks up to Claus.
CLAUS
Your Highness.
Pause.
AZKEDELIA
Please, Mr Claus. I want a toy.
CLAUS
You… you want a toy? From me?
AZKEDELIA
That is correct.
CLAUS
But you’re a princess. The daughter of the King of Oz. Surely you have everything you could possibly desire?
AZKEDELIA
Except toys. And your toys are the best in all the world.
CLAUS
And I make them for the small children who have nothing else to amuse them.
AZKEDELIA
Do poor children love to play with toys more than rich children?
CLAUS
Well, I supposed not.
AZKEDELIA
Am I to blame because my father is a king? Must I be denied the pretty toys I long for because some other child is poorer than I?
CLAUS
But you have so much, you have your ponies to ride, your servants to wait on you, and every comfort you could ever wish for.
AZKEDELIA
(stomping her foot)
But I want toys! And if I can not have them, I shall be unhappy. Very unhappy.
EXT. FORREST OF BURZEE
Claus is talking with Necile about the previous events.
CLAUS
I’m thinking I might have to make some lists. One for good children and one for naughty ones. Cause I tell you, right up top of the naughty list…
NECILE
Is she truly naughty, Claus?
CLAUS
She’s greedy. She already has everything! But kids like Weekum and Mayrie have nothing. I only have so many toys I can make. If I give presents to the rich children as well as the poor ones, I’ll be making toys non-stop all year. Is it right I should give toys to the rich?
NECILE
We of the Forest know nothing of riches. It seems to me that one child is like another child, since they are all made of the same clay. And riches are like a gown, which may be put on and taken away, leaving the child unchanged.
CLAUS
This is true.
NECILE
Whether she be rich or poor, a child’s longing for pretty playthings are but natural. Rich Azkedelia’s heart may suffer as much grief as poor Mayrie’s. She can be just as lonely and just as happy.
(a beat)
I think, little one, it’s your duty to make all little ones glad. Whether they live in palaces or cottages.
INT. EMERALD CITY PALACE
Azkedelia enters a room, much as she was when we were first introduced to her. She’s angry and ranting.
AZKEDELIA
If I get into the Great Hall and find my ponies are not saddled and ready for me to ride, there will be hell to pay! I’ll go to my father the king and I can guarantee that… he’ll…
(she stops, seeing a parcel)
Who left this parcel here? What… why does it have my name on it? Is it for me? It must be, why would someone put my name on something for someone else?
She hurriedly rips off the wrapping, then gasps in astonishment.
AZKEDELIA (cont’d)
(with sheer joy)
It’s a wooden pony! It’s a toy from Mr Claus! He gave me a toy after all! I got a toy from Mr Claus!!!
She dances around the room. And we switch perspective to an Awgwa, watching in the corner.
AZKEDELIA (cont’d)
Servants, don’t worry about saddling up the ponies, I have all I want to play with right here. I am soooo happy right now.
She continues playing with the toy, vocalising to herself.
AWGWA
(whispering)
No… children must not be happy. They must not…
With a screech the Awgwa flies at the princess. Azkedelia screams. The Awgwa takes the pony and flies away. Azkedelia screams after it.
AZKEDELIA
No! That’s my pony! I got that toy from Claus! Bring it back! Bring it back now!!!!!
EXT. LAUGHING VALLEY
CLAUS (V.O.)
I was making more toys than ever before, so many I needed to build a sleigh to carry them all in! And the more toys I made, more and more children of the Emerald City were happy. They laughed, they did as their parents told them… I was putting true goodness in the world. And that did not please the Awgwas.
Across the land of Oz, the dark creatures stole into the homes of the children I had met and stole their toys from them. For days I had crying children coming to me to tell me how sad it made them.
WEEKUM
The horrible thing came into my bedroom! It took my cat! I couldn’t even stop him!
CLAUS (V.O.)
Which is what they wanted. The Awgwas feast on sadness — and this made everybody sad, including me. I made more toys, of course, and tried to replace what the Awgwas had taken. But I was but one man, and the forces of darkness are many. And I struggled to keep up with demand.
And eventually, the Awgwas started to bypass the children completely.
Claus is riding his sleigh, carrying his sack of toys, and an Awgwa attacks him.
CLAUS
Get off! These are toys for the children, not for you! Go away you wicked Awgwa!
Claus loses the struggle and the Awgwa steals the sack.
CLAUS (cont’d)
Bring that bag back! The toys are for the children!
AWGWA
(flying away)
The children of Oz will never be happy!!!!!
CLAUS (V.O.)
I grew discouraged. I couldn’t get back to the children without the Awgwas attacking me. So the children tried to come to me, but the wicked Awgwas flew around them and caused their steps to stray and the paths to become crooked, so never a little one could find a way into the Laughing Valley.
Lonely days now fell upon me, now that I was unable to leave my home or have people visit. But I didn’t give up hope — surely the time would come when the Awgwas would abandon their evil designs to harm me?
I devoted all my hours to toy-making. As each plaything was completed, I stood it on a shelf. When one shelf became full, I made another shelf, and filled that one too. Eventually my home was filled with fantastic and beautiful toys of horses, dogs, cats, elephants, lambs, rabbits and deer, as well as pretty dolls of all sizes.
At night, I would stare at my collection, saddened that the children could not enjoy them, and that I could not bring them their toys.
And at last, it was the night before Christmas Day. And because I could bear it no longer, I ventured back to the Forest of Burzee where the Awgwas could not follow, to seek assistance from Great Ak himself.
EXT. FORREST OF BURZEE
Claus talks to Great Ak. The population of the forest watch on.
AK
Although I had my concerns about your leaving Burzee, Claus, I have approved of the work you are doing among the children of mortals. It annoys me that your good deeds should be thwarted by the Awgwas.
CLAUS
The children are so unhappy now. Which means the grown ups are equally unhappy. To have their toys stolen, stopping me from seeing them… it breaks my heart, Great Ak. And it breaks theirs too.
AK
We Immortals have no connection whatever with the evil creatures who have attacked you. Always we avoided them, and they, in turn, have hitherto taken care not to cross our pathway. But in this matter I find they have interfered with one of our friends, and I will ask them to abandon their persecutions, as you are under our protection.
CLAUS
Thank you, Master Woodsman.
AK
Prepare to deliver your toys, Claus. I will meet with the Awgwa King.
EXT. MOUNTAINS
Desolate, barren and depressing. Great Ak stands on a mountain top and dramatically addresses the windy void.
AK
I demand the King of the Awgwas to appear before me!
KING AWGWA
Who dares call on us?
AK
It is I, the Master Woodsman of the World.
KING AWGWA
There are no forests for you to claim here, Woodsman! We own no allegiance to you, or to any Immortal!
AK
Yet you have ventured to interfere with the actions of Claus, who dwells in the Laughing Valley and is under our protection.
The Awgwas laugh.
KING AWGWA
You are set to the rule the forests, Great Ak, but the plains and the valleys are ours! Keep to your own dark woods! We will do as we please with Claus.
AK
You shall not harm our friend in any way.
KING AWGWA
Shall we not? You will see. Our powers are vastly superior to those of mortals. And fully as great as those of Immortals.
AK
It is your conceit that misleads you! You are a transient race, Awgwas, passing from life into nothingness. We, who live forever, pity but despise you. On Earth you are scorned by all, and in Heaven you have no place! Even the mortals, after their Earth life, enter another existence for all time, and so are your superiors. How then dare you, who are neither mortal nor immortal, refuse to obey my wish?
The Awgwas respond aggressively.
KING AWGWA
Never before has an Immortal declared himself the master of the Awgwas! Never shall an Immortal venture to interfere with our actions again! Will you be so bold when we avenge your words by killing your friend Claus? Nor you, nor all the Immortals can save him from our wrath. We defy your powers! Begone, Master Woodsman of the World! In the domain of the Awgwas you have no place.
AK
It is war between us then.
KING AWGWA
It. Is. War!
EXT. FORREST OF BURZEE
The Great Ak holds a meeting of the Immortals
NECILE
War? Oh no…
AK
There was no other option, Necile.
NECILE
But how are we to proceed? We don’t fight in the Forest of Burzee!
KNOOK
These creatures are of no benefit of the world, we must destroy them.
RYL
Their lives are devoted only to evil deeds. No conscience, no morals, and all they do is make mortals as bad as themselves.
KNOOK
And they have defied you, Great Ak.
NECILE
And threatened the life of our adopted son.
AK
You speak well. And what of you, Jack Frost? What is your perspective?
JACK FROST
Well, Great Ak. These Awgwas are a powerful race. They’ll fight pretty desperately, you know. But we Immortals have one advantage — we don’t die, do we? Awgwas can. I say it’s time for war.
AK
Then it is settled. Let it be known that on this sacred night of Christmas Eve, we shall prepare for battle, and let us resolve to show no mercy to the wicked!
They all yell out a triumphant cry, and determinedly move away. Claus, who has been there the whole time, is confused.
CLAUS
You… you can’t go to war over me.
JACK FROST
Don’t you get it? This isn’t about you anymore — it’s about bigger things. It’s the ultimate battle between good and evil, innit? I’d better get a good seat for this.
CLAUS
What should I do?
JACK FROST
Dunno. Whatever you like. Go back home — it’s Christmas Eve after all, spend it with your family. Oh, right. Your family is off starting a war aren’t they?
CLAUS
Quite.
JACK FROST
Go make some more of your toys then. That’ll cheer somebody up, right?
CLAUS
Yes. Yes, of course, I see. I’ll get myself ready straight away.
Claus rushes off. Jack Frost chuckles.
JACK FROST
And I won’t be far behind you, little one…
INT. HOUSE
CLAUS (V.O.)
And as the Immortals prepared for the ultimate war, I ran home to play my own part. Jack Frost was right — there was no time to lose. While the Awgwas were busy, it was the perfect opportunity to cheer up the people. The more good I could put into the world, the less power the Awgwas had. And the best way I could do this was the same way I always had — with toys.
Claus rushes into his house and frantically starts gathering toys to put into a sack.
CLAUS
Ok, let’s start with the dolls, we’ll need plenty of those… yes, especially the big ones, that’ll cheer them up. And the cats. Cats are classic, mustn’t leave those out.
Blinkie miaows.
CLAUS (cont’d)
Yes, I know this is Christmas Eve, but the Immortals are still going to war, and I can’t leave this for another night.
Miaow.
CLAUS (cont’d)
I don’t have time to argue with you, Blinkie, they all have to go. They’re going to the children of the Emerald City. Have to do my part for the war effort.
Blinkie hisses.
CLAUS (cont’d)
Stop it. Toy soldiers. Yes, those will be perfect — they’re thematically appropriate even, not that the mortals will know what’s happening —
There’s a sound at the door. Claus stops.
CLAUS (cont’d)
What was that?
EXT. LAUGHING VALLEY
Outside the house. Jack Frost is pacing around.
CLAUS (V.O.)
What indeed? For at that moment, right outside my house…
JACK FROST
Can’t have you helping them defeat the Awgwas, Little Claus. There’s no point in a frost if there’s no misery to go with it, and the Awgwas need misery. Let’s keep you sealed up inside your home, shall we?
His power flurries through the air, and in frozen fractals to an icy blast, Jack Frost ices the house. From inside, Claus calls out.
CLAUS
(inside)
What’s happening out there? Why can’t I open this door? Jack? Jack Frost is that you?
JACK FROST
Stop trying to get out, Claus! Your whole house is frozen! Let it go! Enjoy your kingdom of isolation!
He disappears.
INT. HOUSE
Claus keeps banging on the door.
CLAUS
Jack! Let me out now! Jack Frost! Jack!!!
He stops and shivers.
CLAUS (cont’d)
It’s already so cold in here. And it’s going to get worse, I can feel it. Oh Blinkie, what are we going to do?
Blinkie miaows — he doesn’t know.
EXT. MOUNTAINS
Two giant armies prepare for battle.
CLAUS (V.O.)
Meanwhile, on the plateaus of the Awgwa mountains, the terrible battle commenced. On the side of the Immortals stood the Ryls armed with sharp thorns from bramble bushes. Then the Knooks bearing the spears they used to force their savage beasts into submission. The Fairies, dressed in white gauze with rainbow-hued wings, bore golden wands, and the Wood-nymphs, in their uniforms of oak-leaf green, carried switches from ash trees as weapons. And at the head of this army was the Master Woodsman himself, bearing a gleaming axe that shone like burnished silver.
And standing behind the King Awgwa were three hundred Asiatic Dragons, breathing fire that consumed everything it touched. There were the three-eyed Giants of Tatary, and the Black Demons from Patalonia, spreading their bat-like wings spreading terror and misery in their wake. And the Goozle-Goblins, with long talons as sharp as swords that clawed the flesh from their foes. And every Awgwa in the world had come to join the great battle with the Immortals.
AK
There is still time to withdraw, King Awgwa.
KING AWGWA
It is time we rid the world of the Immortals once and for all.
(screaming)
Destroy them all!!!!
AK
Immortals attack!!!!
And the battle commences. Big fantasy war, creatures of all different kinds and sizes and sounds doing battle with each other. A truly epic, ultimate battle. Which after a time, fades away to…
INT. HOUSE
Fade back to the quiet of Claus’s house. Claus sits in a chair and is in true despair.
CLAUS
It’s no use. It’s no use trying any more. I’m… I’m too cold. Face it, Claus, it’s over. They’ve won. You hear that, Awgwas! You’ve won! I give up! What’s the point of trying to do good things when the whole world itself is against you! What’s the point of going out in the world to bring sunshine, when the world itself forces you in and stay in the darkness! You want me to stay in here? Then stay in here I shall. I’m done doing good.
Necile appears.
NECILE
(echoey)
It breaks my heart to hear that, Little One.
CLAUS
Necile? How are you here, Necile? Aren’t you fighting a battle?
NECILE
I had to come to you. I couldn’t bear to hear your heart break like that.
CLAUS
I’m sorry. But I don’t see the point anymore. No matter what I do, no matter how hard I try…
NECILE
The forces of darkness will always be there. And they will always try and bring you down. But the only way you can diminish their power is to keep fighting. Never, ever give up, Claus.
CLAUS
But it’s so hard to keep fighting.
NECILE
And that is why your triumph will be all the greater. To give in gives the Awgwas more power. To fight the darkness is to overcome it.
CLAUS
How do I fight this? I can’t even leave my house!
NECILE
Find a way. Take back the power. I have faith in you, my little one.
And she disappears.
CLAUS
Necile! Necile, come back! Don’t leave me alone again…
(pause)
She’s fighting wicked spirits in her own way. I suppose I should fight mine…
Claus stands up, and turns to the door.
CLAUS (cont’d)
And my first task is to get out of this house. Kingdom of Isolation my foot!
(he looks around)
What have I got here I can use… a million toys, no… a disgruntled cat… of course! A tree covered in decorations that will make a perfect battering ram!
He starts to pull over the tree.
CLAUS (cont’d)
I’m sorry, Ryls, it was a beautiful gift, but my need is greater right now.
He has the tree horizontal and starts ramming it against the door.
CLAUS (cont’d)
And one. And two! And three! Put one… foot… in front… of the other…
Boom! The door bursts open.
CLAUS (cont’d)
(overjoyed)
And soon you’ll be walking out the door! Ah-ha!!!
Claus drops the tree and races out into the night.
EXT. LAUGHING VALLEY
It’s snowing heavily. Claus rushes out of the house, and drags his sack of toys behind him.
CLAUS
Jack Frost has outdone himself with this blizzard. I need a way to get to the Emerald City, but I’ll never do it on foot in this snow. I’ll need to use the sleigh.
He approaches his sleigh and throws the toys in the back.
CLAUS (cont’d)
Never did organise those horses. How to pull it…
(shouting)
In the names of the Knooks of the Forest of Burzee, I summon help from the animals of the world!
With a flourish, from out of the woods come two reindeer.
CLAUS (cont’d)
Reindeer? Of all the… really? Only reindeer available?? Well, Jack Frost himself said they’re great travellers on snow. Let’s get you two harnessed up…
(He starts to tie them to the sleigh)
I’m sure that the Knooks won’t mind my borrowing them without asking. They are rather busy right now.
EXT. MOUNTAINS
The battle continues. It continues to be epic and bloody.
AK
Stand your ground, Immortals. We will overcome this evil if we stand together!
NECILE
Great Ak, I fear we will not be triumphant. Even though we are Immortal, their numbers grow.
AK
Because they draw their power from the misery of humanity. And right now, on this night before Christmas, humanity is very miserable.
NECILE
Then let’s hope that Little Claus can get bring some joy back to them in time!
EXT. LAUGHING VALLEY
Still snowing. Claus is riding the sleigh, the reindeer dragging him along at speed. He’s laughing.
CLAUS
Hahahahahahah – ho ho ho!!! Now I remember why I called this the Laughing Valley! Onward, reindeer! Onward! Dash away, dash away all!
The sleigh whooshes past.
EXT. EMERALD CITY
Night time, streets are empty.
CLAUS (V.O.)
I felt as if I could fly. That I could take that sleigh and the reindeer across the moon and back. But I had no time for joy-riding, I set course direct to the Emerald City. It was well into the night by the time I arrived there. The green streets were empty as I pulled the sleigh up to the first house.
The sleigh pulls up. Claus gets out.
CLAUS
I didn’t realise I’d be here so late. Everyone will be asleep by now. Wouldn’t want to wake them, of course. I’ll just pop inside and leave them their toys to find in the morning. That’ll make them happy I’m sure…
He walks up to the front door and tries to open it. It’s locked.
CLAUS (cont’d)
Of course. What right minded person wouldn’t lock their house up at night? Especially with the Awgwas up to mischief. I suppose I could leave the presents out here, but I expect the snow will ruin them. There must be a way to get inside…
He pauses, and chuckles.
CLAUS (cont’d)
Of course…
INT. WEEKUM’S HOUSE
The chimney rattles and shakes as Claus works his way down it.
CLAUS (V.O.)
To many of you out there, what I did next might sound like the most obvious thing in the world. To those people I ask you — how easy do you think it is to climb down a chimney in the middle of winter?
CLAUS
(stuck in the chimney)
Oh this is ridiculous!
CLAUS (V.O.)
Especially carrying a sack full of toys? Nevertheless, I’d come this far, and wasn’t about to be caught on Christmas morning stuck inside a stranger’s chimney, so through sheer determination I made it to the bottom.
Claus pops out of the bottom of the chimney with a thud.
CLAUS
(whispering)
I suppose I should be glad it wasn’t lit. Now, which toy am I leaving for little Weekum…
(he rummages in the sack)
Yes, a boat. He’ll like getting a boat. I’ll just leave it here by his bed…
WEEKUM
(waking up)
Is that… is someone there?
CLAUS
(whispering)
Shh. Go back to sleep, little one.
WEEKUM
Claus, is that you?
CLAUS
Shhh.
Weekum goes back to sleep.
CLAUS (cont’d)
He’ll have a surprise waiting for him when he wakes. Now, to… oh. Cookies, left to the side there. I’m sure he won’t mind if I had just one…
(he grabs a cookie and eats it)
Now. Back up the chimney I guess. Oh well…
EXT. MOUNTAINS
Similar setup as before.
CLAUS (V.O.)
All the houses were locked, so I repeated the process throughout the town — slide down the chimney, leave a present for each child in the house, then back out again to the next one. Hardly any of them woke, which was helpful, since I didn’t want to be noticed. The few that stirred, well maybe they would consider me a dream. And what a surprise they would get, waking on Christmas morning and finding a shiny new toy!
The children couldn’t see me — but my actions were putting good back into the world. Which meant the Awgwas were losing their power.
NECILE
The Awgwas are retreating!
AK
The powers of darkness are on the wain! Press home the advantage, Immortals! We will be triumphant this day!
NECILE
This is because of Claus. I know it is.
AK
Find me the King of the Awgwas! I want him brought before me!
KNOOK
We can’t find him!
RYL
He seems to have fled.
AK
Then we will search the world for him! He must not be permitted to spread his darkness any further!
INT. EMERALD CITY PALACE
Claus continues his trick of sliding down the chimney.
CLAUS
Ahh, palace chimneys. So much more spacious and roomy than most. Now, what shall I give to Princess Azkedelia?
AZKEDELIA
An explanation?
Claus is startled at having been found.
CLAUS
I… I’m not really here! I am but a dreeeeeeam!
AZKEDELIA
I might be a child, Mr Claus, but I’m not that much of a child…. oooh! You have toys!
CLAUS
Yes. Yes, I do.
AZKEDELIA
Oh give me! Give me!!!!
CLAUS
Wait — have you been a good girl?
AZKEDELIA
Yes!
CLAUS
Truthfully? Because this is important — you must always do good, no matter who you are or where you’re from. Always put good into the world or —
KING AWGWA
Or you will find the darkness will consume you.
CLAUS
Oh no…
AZKEDELIA
What is it?
CLAUS
An Awgwa!
KING AWGWA
King of the Awgwas.
CLAUS
Stay away from it, your Highness, it’s very dangerous.
KING AWGWA
You… you call me dangerous? When you… you…
He coughs and struggles. He’s very weak.
CLAUS
I think it’s wounded. You’ve come from the war, haven’t you?
KING AWGWA
So you’re the famous Claus, then. The reason why all this has happened. The one making children happy, putting goodness and light into the world.
CLAUS
The world is better for it!
KING AWGWA
Is it? Look what you’ve given these people. You’ve given them hope in a world where there is none. You’ve given them joy, when ultimately there is only ever despair and sadness.
AZKEDELIA
Is he right, Claus?
CLAUS
Don’t listen to it, Azkedelia, don’t let his darkness in.
KING AWGWA
You’ll spend all your days trying to bring them joy, Claus, but you’ll never truly make them happy. They’ll always want the next toy. The next shiny new thing, and will look to you for eternity, endlessly asking you for things. Their joy will be temporary, gone in an instant.
CLAUS
And then that will have been worth it. If I can bring one moment’s joy to one child… if I can make someone’s world less horrible, less dark, less lonely for one, just one tiny moment… then it is all worth it.
KING AWGWA
(spitting)
Such melodrama!
CLAUS
And you will never truly succeed, Awgwas. Not while people like me are in the world. You feed on darkness, but I bring them light! I will bring them the hope they need to fight you and to destroy you all!
KING AWGWA
Then do so from the grave!
He rushes at Claus, and they struggle. Azkedelia screams. The fight is relatively short, before long the King Awgwa lets out a moan and collapses, disappearing.
CLAUS
(pained)
Ho ho ho…
AZKEDELIA
Claus? Are you ok?
CLAUS
I… believe I impaled the creature. On this… candy cane I believe. They’re sharper than they look you know.
AZKEDELIA
You’re hurt?
CLAUS
Am I? I don’t feel hurt. I feel… I feel…
He passes out. Azkedelia gasps.
AZKEDELIA
Claus! Mr Claus, wake up! Wake up!!!
EXT. FORREST OF BURZEE
The Immortals gather, hushed and sad, to discuss the fate of Claus.
AK
I am afraid that Little Claus has given too much in pursuit of his dreams. He is not well. With the princess’s help, the reindeer were able to get him back to his home in the Laughing Valley, where Necile sits with him now.
RYL
Will he survive?
AK
He… Necile will care for him until the moment comes.
KNOOK
After all that. All that battling, for him, for the mortals … and now it’s all over.
AK
And this is why I have summoned the Council of Immortals to the Forest of Burzee. For we must discuss the matter of Claus. For now, when he had won the love of all the world, the Spirit of Death is hovering over him. Of all humans who have inhabited the earth, none other so well deserves immortality. For such a life can not be spared so long as there are children of mortals to miss him and to grieve over his loss. We Immortals are the servants of the world, and to serve the world we were permitted in the Beginning to exist. But what one of us is more worthy of immortality than this man, Claus, who so sweetly ministers to the little children?
RYL
What is your desire, Great Ak?
AK
To bestow upon Claus the Mantle of Immortality.
There’s general hubbub from the Immortals.
KNOOK
But in all the world there is but one Mantle of Immortality!
RYL
It’s existed since the Beginning, and we have never even considered passing it on to a mortal.
AK
I know all this!
The hubbub silences.
AK (cont’d)
(quieter)
But the Mantle exists, and if it was created in the Beginning, it was because it would some day be required. Until now no mortal has deserved it. But who among you dares deny that the good Claus deserves it?
Silence. They’re not sure.
AK (cont’d)
Of what use is the Mantle of Immortality unless it is worn? What will it profit any of us to allow it to remain in its lonely shrine for all time to come?
RYL
Then it should be brought to a vote then.
AK
Indeed. Will we bestow on Little Claus the Mantle of Immortality?
INT. MAYRIE’S HOUSE
Christmas morning. Mayrie’s Mum comes out of a room.
MUM
(calling off)
Wake up, Mayrie! Come on, it’ll be breakfast soon! It’s Christmas morning!
MAYRIE
I’m coming, Mum.
MUM
And clean up your toys, I nearly tripped on this doll.
MAYRIE
That’s not my doll, Mum.
MUM
Of course it is. It’s one of those ones you got from Claus, isn’t it?
MAYRIE
No. I haven’t seen this one before…
MUM
Is it new? But how did it get here?
MAYRIE
Claus must have brought it! He brought me a present on Christmas Eve!
MUM
Now that’s silly, whoever thought of such a thing. Although… nobody else makes toys like that. And you’re right, Mayrie, it is new…
MAYRIE
He left it for me!!! How did he get in?
MUM
He’s magic. That’s how. Perhaps he’s a saint, that’s what he is. And a saint has no need to unlock doors if it pleases him to enter a home.
MAYRIE
(mispronouncing it)
Santa Tlaus.
MUM
No, Mayrie, “Saint”. Not “Santa”, Saint.
MAYRIE
(very happy)
Santa Claus. Santa Claus!!!
INT. HOUSE
Claus lies on the bed. Blinkie is nearby. He miaows.
CLAUS
(weak)
Blinkie? Is that you? Still as ornery as ever I see… I feel… I feel like I don’t have much longer… perhaps it’s my time. I’ve done all I can…
NECILE
Oh, little one.
CLAUS
Necile?
NECILE
The Spirit of Death will not take you today, Neclaus. Of all days, not on Christmas morning. You have only just begun your great work. This is only the start of something wonderful.
CLAUS
I don’t understand… I don’t…
NECILE
Oh Claus…
The Great Ak’s voice thunders from the heavens.
AK
We bestow this Mantle upon Claus, who is called the Patron Saint of Children.
CLAUS
No… I’m not worthy…
Magic power grows around Claus — twinkly Christmas power.
NECILE
Oh, my little one… who could possibly be more worthy of this than Santa Claus?
A reprise of “Don’t Tempt Me” begins, and Necile sings sweetly.
NECILE (cont’d)
(singing)
Out where the snow is falling
When you hear sleigh bells ringing
When you hear children laughing
That’s where you’ll find him singing.
Out there…
The power builds to a crescendo. The dramatic music goes up a notch, and everything is happy.
EXT. LAUGHING VALLEY
CLAUS (V.O.)
And on that day, that beautiful Christmas morning, my life started anew. I continued my work bringing joy to the world, and happiness among children. Every year, on Christmas Eve I would travel the world in my sleigh, leaving toys for children to discover to their immense pleasure on Christmas morning. I have done this for hundreds of years now… and thanks to the Mantle of Immortality, I shall do so forever more.
And so the world gets bigger, and now there are more children than ever. But on one day, when the world is at its darkest, I put good into the world. And it makes the world a little less dark. A little less lonely. A little happier. For in all this world there is nothing so beautiful as a happy child.
And if I had my way, the children would all be beautiful. Because all will be happy.
The sleigh flies by, dragged by the reindeer and Claus (now basically a typical Santa) cries out on the way.
CLAUS
Ho ho ho everyone! Merry Christmas! Merry Christmas to everyone!
And he flies away, putting more good into the world.
CLOSING CREDITS