Banjo the Woodpile Cat (film)/Transcript

Prelude
(Scene opens to a war-razed battleground.)

Narrator - It's 1944, and war was on the rise. (Soldiers charge in the battle field as other soldiers fall from bullet wounds and other injuries.) Soldiers were killed, and innocent people shared their fate.

Overlapping Radio voices - The U.S. Army provided Chocolate Bars and gum for rations... Colossus, also known as the first large-scale computer cracks Nazi Code... US penicillin to be used to treat soldiers of blood poisoning... Shoe rationing begins in the USA... Japanese-Americans are confined to internment camps... Navajo Code Talkers aid the Allied Forces... Silk to be used as Parachutes... Alaska Highway built... US Garbage to be recycled for the World War II Industry...

Narrator - But as the great war was still going on, Somewhere far away in the town of Payson, Utah, as Autumn was about to start... (the words "Payson Utah, 1944" appear and disappear as We pan to a quiet farm with a Mailbox with the word "Bluth" on it, and Zooms in to two cats sleeping in a woodpile, one of them quivers as the other notices.)

Male Cat - Amber, Is something wrong?

Amber - Nothing's wrong, Rusty. It's just that You'll be a Father in a few weeks.

Rusty - A Few weeks? I had no idea. (Imagines a small female version of Rusty and a little male version of Amber playing tag and the dream disappears.) Wow. I can only imagine. But, Having children is quite challenging. I mean, Our owners have three sons. They had two daughters, but...

Amber - I know. It was tragic. But, I’m sure Our kids will have bright futures.

Rusty - Yes. (A human walks by from the knees up.)

Virgil - Well, Rusty, Amber, are You ready— Oh. Amber. you’re going to be a Mom. I guess that means You’ll need more food than normal. (The scene changes to Amber eating food, going to sleep, and Rusty watching over Her.)

Chapter 1: Birth of Banjo
Narrator - After a few weeks, Amber tended to Her future kittens, until finally... (The Scene changes to Rusty asleep.)

Amber - Rusty! Wake up! They're here! (Rusty wakes up and sees Amber with three hairless kittens meowing.)

Rusty - Aw... Two girls and a boy.

Amber - and one of them looks a lot like you.

Rusty - Really? Hmm... what names do you suggest?

Amber - One will be called Emily, one will be Jean. And He’ll be called...?

Rusty - Uh... (hears banjo music from a radio.) Where’s that Banjo Music coming from?

Amber - Banjo? Very cute name. And once a few days pass, they’ll see the world. (The Parents look outside to see the stars in the sky.) Rusty, it looks like we've got a bright future ahead of us and our kids will, too.

Rusty: Yes. You’re right, Amber. (Their tails entwine.)

(A few days later, On a moonless night, Banjo and his sisters have grown a little with fur and are about to open their eyes in a few moments. Rusty and Amber notice this and smile.)

Amber - Here it comes, Rusty. (Emily opens Her Eyes first, then Jean, then Banjo.)

Rusty: Hello there. (in Banjo’s point of view, He sees a blurry Rusty, then the blurs even out.)

(Each of the kittens rise up and look around in curiosity. Banjo slowly approaches Rusty.)

Rusty: Hello there, Banjo.

(Banjo looks up and sees His father’s face. Then Banjo feels His father’s wrist, and falls asleep.)

Amber: Isn't he cute?

Rusty: He sure is.

(Rusty softly scratches Banjo‘s head as Emily and Jean approach Amber)

Amber - I’m sure our kids will enjoy life, like We have.

Rusty - Agreed. Kids, come look at the sky. (They look up.) It’s a beautiful sight, isn’t it? And with that many stars in the sky, You can only imagine What the future holds. (The kittens are delighted to see the stars in the sky.) Kids, What do You say We enjoy Halloween? Why people are afraid of black cats, I don't know.

Amber - Rusty, Don't tell Me--

Rusty - It's OK. It's only a harmless prank.

(At the Doorstep, four trick-or-treaters come up.)

Kids - Trick or Treat!

Man - Ah. Well, hello there. (gives candy to the kids as the Cats come up.)

Kid in Ghost costume - Oh! Good trick, Farmer Jones.

Mr. Jones - What do You mean? (Sees the Cats covered in soot.) Oh, Sorry. They're not black cats.

Kid in Ghost Costume - Still, good trick. (They leave.)

Mr. Jones - Rusty, what gave You the idea to disguise Your family as black cats? Well, No matter. You and the others will need a bath.

Narrator: Banjo felt excited about the prank, which was quite an influence and as the days went on...

Chapter 2: Banjo's Mischief
(At sunrise, Banjo sees a chicken leave the coop and He tries to stop the chicken from leaving.)

Banjo - Hey, come back! stop! You can't leave the coop!

Emily - Jean, looks like Banjo’s having some trouble.

Jean - I’ll say. Henrietta is quite tricky.

Emily/Jean - Dad! Banjo can’t control Henrietta!

(Rusty chases Banjo)

Rusty - Son, chasing a chicken will make them more erratic!

Banjo - What?! (To the running chicken) Come on, go back to the coop!

Rusty - Son, I said chasing a chicken will make them erratic.

Banjo - What's erratic mean? (Rusty sighs exasperatedly)

Rusty - It means unpredictable!

(Banjo trips, then the chicken turns around and pecks Banjo mercilessly.)

Rusty - Banjo! (shoos the chicken away from Banjo.)

Virgil - Good work, Rusty. (Holds on to the Chicken.) She's going back to the coop.

Rusty - Well, Son, I hope You learned something.

Banjo - Yes, dad. Never let the chicken leave the coop, ever.

Rusty - No, No. never chase a chicken to go back to the coop. It’ll only make it be more desperate.

Banjo - What’s desperate mean? (Rusty sighs exasperatedly.)

Emily - Not even our brother deserved being pecked like that.

Jean - You said it. I’m sure We could do a better job.

Emily - But, it was kind of funny. (They both laugh until Banjo Notices them.)

Narrator - Of course, that wasn't the end of it...

(Transition to Banjo gathering twigs and broken branches in a pile, with Rusty noticing.)

Rusty - What are you doing, Banjo? Halloween is a few days away.

Banjo - Well, Dad, I’m constructing a woodpile. I mean, that includes branches and twigs, right?

Rusty - Uh... Yes. Just... make sure you don't get yourself hurt. Um... are some of the branches rotting? Because rotted wood could have poison ivy or termites. Chances are that some could contain snakes.

(Banjo checks the branches)

Banjo - Snakes? I can’t tell. most of the bark is intact, but... the insides are dark. (He moves on to make His woodpile as His father starts to worry, the a scene changes to morning)

Narrator - After a few days went on, Banjo was determined to make as big a woodpile as possible.

Banjo - Whew. it took three days, but it's complete. and it's all mine.

Emily - Banjo, what is that?

Jean - Looks like a tree half-buried.

Banjo - It's a woodpile. (Climbs up on the woodpile) and if You think You can steal it from Me, you're sorely mistaken.

Emily - Well, He's got the "sorely" part right.

Jean - I don't think Our brother should even be on the woodpile at all.

(Banjo starts to twitch)

Banjo - Uh-oh. (He falls down and twists His ankle.) Ow!

Emily - Ow is right.

Jean - You heard something like “the bigger they are”, right? (They both laugh, but they stop the second they see Rusty.)

Rusty - (Checking the ankle) Hmm. It’s not too serious. It’ll be okay after a few days, son. (He sees Emily and Jean try to sneak off.) also... (Emily and Jean react.) laughing at others expense, including your brother is not allowed. (Emily and Jean feel bad.) I mean, what if Banjo had a more serious injury, or worse?

(Inside the barn at night, Rusty has a conversation with His son.)

Rusty - Son, I know You’re only trying to help, keeping the chickens from leaving the farm, gathering wood for the winter, but it didn’t help much. but, once Your ankle heals, I’ll give You a task that most cats couldn’t fail at. Believe me.

Banjo - I— ok, Dad.

(The sun rises over the farm.)

Narrator - After a few days, Rusty felt that it was time for His son to catch mice and rats. Thus...

Rusty - Son, Your new task will be a mouser.

Banjo - But doesn’t being a mouse involve having a taste for cheese, or becoming small as that barn doorstop? (Rusty tries to stifle His laughter.)

Rusty - No! No. What I mean to say is that I'm going to teach how to catch a mouse and eat it.

(Banjo’s Sisters and Mother see what’s going on.)

Banjo - wha-- Doesn't a mouse taste horrible or do they have... diseases?

Rusty - You'd never know. (Rusty sees a rat.) There’s one! get Him!

(Banjo goes after the rat, but while Chasing the rat, Banjo accidentally knocks over an empty milk carrier and bucket, then crashes into a hay bale. But Banjo manages to get the Rat.)

Banjo - I finally got it!

Rusty: Well, now that you've got the rat, you'll have to eat it.

Banjo - What? (Sniffs the rat.) weird smell, (Licks the rat.) Ugh! (spits a few times.) Tastes worse!

Rusty - Son, don’t be so picky!

(Amber enters.)

Amber - What’s going on, Rusty?

Rusty: Well, Banjo caught the rat, and will eat it.

Amber - Eat it?

Banjo - (to the rat.) I’m letting You go. But, promise Me You won’t come back to cause any trouble. (The rat panics and leaves the farm.)

Rusty: (facepalming) No, no, no, Banjo. Capturing the rat, and telling it to leave is a bad idea.

Amber - Rusty, Our kids are still young. Besides, look at Emily and Jean. (They see their daughters closing their eyes.) not even they want to eat a mouse at their age. They’re still young.

Rusty: I know, Amber, but Banjo has to eventually learn that life isn't all fun and games. besides, chances are that rat will come back and believe Me, it won't be alone.

Amber - You can't force-feed maturity, Rusty. things take time.

Narrator: As more time passed, Banjo started to become a bit mischievous around the farm. (images of Banjo climbing a woodchip silo.)

Emily's Voice - You could get stuck the second You're inside.

Banjo's Voice - Aw, haven't you heard of "Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained"?

(In image of Banjo stuck in a tree.)

Jean's voice - We'd... better get Dad to help Banjo down.

Emily's Voice - At least, it's a good hiding place from any dogs come around.

(An Image of Banjo slipping and sliding on a frozen pond as His sisters laugh.)

Rusty’s voice - Well, at least He didn't cause any trouble today.

(An image of Banjo making a scary face at a broken mirror as Rusty and Amber watch with worried faces.)

Amber's voice - Well, I'm sure Our son will enjoy it more than He realizes.

(The montage ends as Banjo looks at a few magazines.)

Banjo - Hmm.

Chapter 3: Off to Obedience School
(Inside the house, Banjo listens to a radio.)

Man in Radio - So, You're saying a cat's most sensitive body part is the whiskers?

Man in Radio 2 - Yes. A Cat’s touch sensors. the pain You could say is worse than a bee sting on a cat's paws.

Banjo - Hmm. Really?

(Outside, Banjo is asleep.)

Emily - Um, Jean, is Banjo...?

Jean - Maybe... (Shakes up Banjo's head causing Him to slowly wake up.)

Emily - Yah! Zombie!

Banjo - Sisters, Wait! A Radio show says that a cat's whiskers are more sensitive than anywhere on a cat's body. Is that true?

Emily - Of course a cat's whiskers are very sensitive! They're vital to Our way of life!

Banjo - Really?

Narrator: Later that night, Mr. Jones had put up with Banjo's antics for the last time. So, he knew what had to be done.

(At the living room, Mr. Jones, Mrs. Jones, Penelope, Rusty, and Amber gather around.)

Mr. Jones: I have had it up to here with Banjo's shenanigans. It's high time he learns how to grow up!

(Banjo stirs from the noise)

Mr. Jones: I say that we should send him to the Midvale obedience school.

Mrs. Jones: But, George, isn’t It for puppies? Besides, it’s quite a distance.

Mr. Jones: Mary, I have done some research on that school and its brochure says that it also accepts cats.

Mrs. Jones - Still, it’s over 60 miles away. Far away from home. Banjo will be homesick after one day.

Mr. Jones: Mary, if you don't mind my saying so, Banjo must learn that not everything in life is all fun and games.

(Banjo overheard this and feels sad.)

Mr. Jones: Sooner or later, he has to grow up to be a proper cat.

Banjo - (thinking) A proper cat? (sheds tears then heads for the woodpile and sleeps under it.)

Rusty's Voice: Banjo has to grow up eventually.

Mr. Jones' Voice: Banjo must learn that not everything in life is all fun and games.

(Banjo then starts to cry as He sleeps alongside His sisters, who were partially awake.)

Banjo: (Crying) I don't think Mr. Jones and Dad love me anymore... I guess I should leave home tomorrow... (Falls asleep as Emily and Jean group up and keep Banjo warm.)

(Back inside the house...)

Penelope: Please, papa, don't send him away!

Mr. Jones: Penelope, keep out of this. I'm going to call the obedience school first thing in the morning.

(Transition to the next morning)

Narrator: Sure enough, Mr. Jones kept his word. By the next morning...

(Mr. Jones picks up an asleep Banjo and puts Him in an animal crate.)

Obedience School Driver - Worry not, Mr. Jones. Before the week is over, Banjo will be more well behaved.

Mr. Jones: Well, see that he does. (Banjo starts to wake up.)

Banjo - Ahh... Wha— (Finds out He’s in an animal crate.) What In— I’m in an animal crate? I’m being taken to an animal shelter...?

Mr. Jones: (To the Driver) And make sure that he becomes proper and obedient by the end of the month.

Driver - You can count on it.

(They drive away in the van as Banjo looked at His family while shedding tears.)

Banjo -  Mom! Dad! Don’t let them take me! Help!

Narrator: And that was the day that Banjo's adventure began....

Chapter 4: Welcome to Salt Lake City
(In the crate, Banjo is trying to get out.)

Narrator - As The truck was nearing the town of Midvale, the driver makes a wrong turn, Banjo who believed that the family gave Him up to the shelter, tries desperately to get out.

Driver - Oop! I traveled too far and headed toward Salt Lake City. (The Van makes a U-turn and heads for Midvale Obedience School.)

Banjo - Someone! Anyone! Help! (Tries to get out, and when the truck hits a bump, the truck’s back door opens, and Banjo’s crate falls out and lands on the road which breaks apart, as the truck drives away.) Ow.

(Banjo looks around)

Banjo: Where am I? There’s not many trees, and so Loud... worse, I can never go home...

(He is too frightened to walk around, But slowly approaches a small alley.)

Banjo: Hello? Is anybody here?

(A tall, bony straycatcher emerges with a net)

Straycatcher - Ah. A kitten. You’ll fetch me quite a small fortune. (Goes after Banjo, Banjo makes a run for it.) Hey, Boris! Help me catch that cat! (Banjo runs to a construction site.)

Banjo: That guy sure looks scary. (Creeps through some construction equipment and through a few pipes.) They won't find me in here.

Straycatcher: Here, kitty, kitty, kitty. Don't you go hiding from Uncle Perry. (Banjo exits the construction site, and escapes the straycatchers, by going inside a discarded box.)

Banjo: What am I gonna do now? Mom... Dad... I want to go home... (the rain starts to fall as the screen blacks out.)

(The screen changes to the farm, where inside, a phone rings.)

Narrator - Meanwhile, back in Payson, The Jones Farm got a phone call...

Mr. Jones: Yes, this is him. Oh, Mr. Deacon. How's Banjo's first day at the Obedience School? (His eyes widen with shock) What?! What do you mean Banjo is missing?!

Mr. Deacon (from phone) - I’m terribly sorry, Sir. When I came to get Banjo, He and His animal crate was missing. And if He’s without His license around His neck, it will be difficult to locate Him.

Mr. Jones: I see... Thank you for calling... (Hangs up) Ohh... I can’t believe it. I don't know how Banjo got out. But I got to search for Him.

Mrs. Jones - Search for who? (Mr. Jones is startled.)

Mr. Jones - Wha— (Rusty and Amber listen from outside.) Well, The Obedience School called, and--

Mrs. Jones - ...And Banjo is having fun there?

Mr. Jones - No, He’s missing. They told Me Banjo and His animal crate was missing Before they reached the school.

(Rusty and Amber gasp with horrified looks on their faces)

Mrs. Jones: (Shocked) What?!

Mr. Jones: He's probably lost somewhere between Home and who knows where--

Mrs. Jones - Did Banjo think He was going to the animal shelter? I think I saw Him crying when He was in the van.

Mr. Jones - Well, I don’t know. I didn't pay attention.

Mrs. Jones: Well, what about Penelope? How will We explain it to Her?

Mr. Jones: No, She'll be devastated. (Penelope who was planting seeds, heard the conversation and begins to shed tears.)

Amber - Rusty, where are you going?

Rusty - I’m going to find Our son.

Amber - Well, I’m going, too.

Rusty - No. If anything bad happens to You, what would become of Jean and Emily? They can’t survive without their mom.

Amber: Our son can’t survive either.

Rusty - Good point.

(Mr. and Mrs. Jones rush out the door as Rusty follows.)

Mr. Jones - Sorry, Rusty. You and the others will have to stay home and keep Penelope company.

(Rusty meows worriedly)

Mr. Jones: I know you're concerned for Your kitten, but It’s not safe going off on Your own. (The truck The Joneses are in, drive off as Rusty and Amber watch. with Emily and Jean coming to Their parents.

Emily - Mom, where are they going?

Amber - They’re searching for Your brother, after He was lost on the way to the obedience school.

Jean - Obedience School? So He didn’t run away from home?

Rusty - Wait, Run away from home? Ok, girls. Tell Me everything.

Emily - Well, He was crying last night, thinking about leaving home, thinking Farmer Jones was going to give up Banjo in the morning.

Jean - I'd run away, too, if I was to be sent to the animal shelter.

Rusty - Ohh, Banjo...

Chapter 5: They Call Me Crazy Legs
(Back in the city, Banjo fell asleep. He then hears clattering and hide under a garbage can lid. then He hears a cat scatting while looking for food.)

Banjo: Did somebody leave the radio on? (Looks outside the box and slowly approaches a trash can, which is shaking.) Um... hello?

(The cat pops out of the trash can and looks down)

Cat: Hey, little guy. Are you lost? (Banjo panics and hides under a trash lid.) What's wrong? Is there something on my face? Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to scare You. I was only looking for some food, but not much.

(Banjo slowly comes out of the trash lid.)

Banjo: Who are you?

Cat: Crazy's the name. Crazy Legs. What's your name?

Banjo: I... I'm Banjo.

Crazy Legs - Banjo? An unusual name. And where do You live?

Banjo - I... I used to live in a woodpile. (Sheds tears.)

Crazy Legs - Oh. Well, some friends of mine used to live in woodpiles when they were your age. I mean, what town or city do You live in?

Banjo - a woodpile... in Payson.

Crazy Legs: Payson... Payson... That’s around 60 miles away. Do you know how to get back home?

Banjo: (Tearing up) I wish I could.... But,  Mr. Jones, my owner, gave me up and a van was taking me to an animal shelter... I didn’t even get a chance to say goodbye to my family or Penelope. (Cries)

(Crazy Legs sympathetically gives Banjo his scarf)

Crazy Legs: I'll tell you what. Let's crash at Zazu's apartment for a while. That way, we'll figure out a way to get you home. Sounds like a plan?

Banjo: (Drying his tears) I don't know who Zazu is, but thank you, Crazy Legs.

(The two proceed as a song begins)

Crazy Legs: You know, Banjo, I had an owner just like you when I was your age.

Banjo: You did? What was his name?

Crazy Legs: Leopold Wood was his name. He was the best violinist in the neighborhood.

(Transition to a flashback of Crazy Legs as a kitten, alone and lost on an autumn night.)

Crazy Legs (Voiceover): When I was your age, I was a stray kitten and I haven't got a home to go to.

(Crazy Legs hears a violin playing)

Crazy Legs (Voiceover): That was until I came across some music playing.

(Crazy Legs sees a man with a long nose and a pompadour playing his violin. The man notices Crazy Legs and stops playing)

Leopold: Aw, what's the matter? Are you lost?

(Crazy Legs nods)

Leopold: Do you have a family?

(Crazy Legs shook his head sadly as he sheds tears)

Leopold: (Petting Crazy Legs) Well, don't you worry, little guy. I will take good care of you. (Gives his scarf to Crazy Legs as the song begins) I'll stick with you, kid. And you'll stick with me. Together, we'll overcome adversity and Old Man Trouble will have to let you be, 'cause you're gonna come out smiling if you stick with me.

(He plays his violin while Crazy Legs listens contentedly)

Leopold: (Singing) I'll stick with you, kid, you'll stick with me. Together, we'll overcome adversity (as he and Crazy Legs dance along) and Old Man Trouble will have to let you be 'cause you're gonna come out smiling if you stick with me!

(Leopold plays a dramatic tune)

Leopold: (Singing) There's safety in number, we'll always work things through. Though danger and hazards may come running after you. If we stick together like Hardy and Laurel, I'll bet you a nickel we'll overcome trouble.

(Crazy Legs meows as if to ask what to do.)

Leopold: Well, (Singing) I'll stick with you, kid, you'll stick with me. Together, we'll overcome adversity. And old man Trouble will have to let you be, 'cause you're gonna come out out smiling if you stick with me!

(Crazy Legs purrs happily, time went by and Crazy Legs as a young adult cat is alongside Leopold, who plays the violin in front of a small audience of kids while Crazy Legs dances to the music.)

Crazy Legs (Voiceover) - He’s been making all who listen to His music, happy.

Leopold: (Singing) If there's no Costello, there would be no Abbot. A magician's no good if he hasn't a rabbit. Now, Crazy, don't worry, I'll be there just for you. I'll come a running no matter what you do. Oh, I'll stick you, kid, you stick with me. Together, we'll overcome adversity, and old man trouble will have to let you be, cause you're gonna come out smiling if you stick with me!

(The song ends as the children clap. Flashback ends)

Banjo - Wow! He must be a kind-hearted man. I’d like to meet Him.

(Crazy Legs sighs sadly)

Banjo: What's wrong?

Crazy Legs: Well, two years ago....

(Flashback to two years ago, where Leopold is playing his violin at his apartment while Crazy Legs listens contentedly. Suddenly, a loud banging is on the door)

Leopold: Who could that be? I hope it's not the landlord.

(He opens the door and a tough looking gangster and his dog are in the doorway.)

Leopold: How can I help you?

Gangster: The name is Lazlo. Lazlo Popham, and this is my dog, Bubbles.

(Bubbles growls)

Lazlo: Word on the street is that there has been a spike in crime lately. So, I 'm here for your protection... And your money.

Leopold: My money? How much?

Lazlo: 500 and I don't mean clams.

Leopold: (Shocked) Are you crazy?! I'm not paying you that amount of money! Get out of here!

Lazlo: Very well then... (Gets out his gun and points it at Crazy Legs) Then I'll blow your cat's brains out.

Leopold: Leave my cat out of this!

Lazlo: Okay then... (Points it at Leopold's forehead) Then I blow YOUR brains out!

(Leopold backs off)

Leopold: You're a monster!

Lazlo: Sic him, Bubbles!

(Bubbles lunges at Leopold, but Crazy Legs rushes in and claws Bubbles' face, causing him to yelp)

Lazlo: Bubbles! (Points his gun at Crazy Legs) Why you little...

(Crazy Legs claws Lazlo's face, causing him to drop his gun and cover his face)

Lazlo: (Screaming) ARGH! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?!

(Lazlo and Bubbles rush out the door)

Lazlo: I'll get even with you miserable bums if it's the last thing I'll do! Starting with that Cat!

(Leopold slams the door and locks it)

Leopold: Don't count on it!

(Crazy Legs hops into Leopold's arms and Leopold hugs him)

Leopold: Thank you, Crazy Legs. You saved the both of us. I'll call the police right away.

Crazy Legs: That money-grabber was sent to jail for blackmail and two counts of attempted murder.

(Transition to Leopold with his bags packed.)

Leopold: I've been enlisted to the army. But, I'll be back, Crazy Legs. I promise.

(He leaves. As time passed, Crazy Legs waited. One day, Crazy Legs hears some people talking)

Man: Did you hear what happened to Mr. Wood?

Man 2: Yeah... Those Axis cutthroats got him.

(Crazy Legs who was listening in, becomes horrified and breaks into tears)

Man: Poor Crazy Legs will be heartbroken. How are We going to break it to Him?

Man 2: Yeah. God bless that violinist.

(The flashback ends with The Two Cats in front of Leopold's grave in the cemetary. Banjo comforts Crazy Legs)

Banjo: (Sadly) I'm very sorry, Crazy Legs.

Crazy Legs: (Sadly)  It's okay, Banjo. He was very kind-hearted He gave Me a home when no one else would. Now, Come on, let's head to Zazu's.

Chapter 6: Meeting Zazu
(Banjo and Crazy Legs arrives at a dilapidated apartment building.)

Narrator - Like a mouse in a maze, Banjo didn't know where to go to get home, But He was willing to let Crazy Legs help in any way possible.

Banjo - So, this is where Zazu lives?

Crazy Legs - Not to sound too much like a cartoon cat, but... Righty-o.

(They go inside the building and look for Zazu's apartment)

Crazy Legs - Zazu? Hello?

???: Crazy Legs? Is that you?

(Crazy Legs and Banjo turn to a small, round, pink cat with blonde hair)

Banjo - I assume it’s Zazu?

Pink cat: Actually, I'm her youngest sister, Cleo.

Banjo - Youngest?

Cleo - Crazy Legs, who is the little guy?

Banjo: My name is Banjo.

Crazy Legs - Cleo, We came to see Zazu. You know where She is?

Cleo: Of course. Follow me.

(Crazy Legs and Zazu follow Cleo to the dining Hall, where They see a turquoise cat and violet cat practicing.)

Cleo: Marina? Zazu?

Zazu - What’s the news?

Cleo - Crazy Legs has come to visit again, along with a youngster.

Zazu: Ah, I see. Ain't he precious? A nephew of yours?

Crazy Legs - Well, Actually...

(Zazu approaches Banjo, who hides behind Crazy Legs.)

Zazu: It's okay, little guy. I don't bite. What's your name?

Banjo - I... I’m Banjo.

Zazu: I see. (To Crazy Legs) Now, Crazy Legs, where did you find him?

Crazy Legs: I found him at the alleyway near the construction site.

Zazu: A poor little guy wandering around with no owners around could get into a lot of trouble, you know.

Crazy Legs: But I didn't get Banjo into trouble, he was abandoned by a van on the way to the animal shelter.

Zazu: Abandoned?

Marina - Animal Shelter?

(Banjo nods)

Banjo - I... I just want to see My Family... (sheds a few tears.)

Zazu: I see...

(Marina approaches Banjo)

Marina: You know, Banjo, we had a very wonderful owner when we were your age.

Banjo - Was Your owner kind-hearted like Crazy Legs’?

Marina: Oh, yes, she was very kind-hearted. Thank You for asking.

(Flashback to Zazu, Marina and Cleo, as kittens, singing in front of an old lady)

Marina (Voiceover): Her name was Muriel Hill, and she used to be a silent movie actress.

Banjo (Voiceover) - Was she famous?

Cleo (Voiceover): Why certainly. She was known as the leading actress of silent films like Snow, Snow, Beautiful Snow; The Bride of the Musketeers, and The Plights of Prunella Pencilsharp. Of course, after the Jazz Singer came along, Muriel made a few bit parts in other movies until she retired seven years ago.

Zazu (Voiceover): some time after retiring, Muriel adopted us. Every day, we would sing to her to cheer her up.

Marina (Voiceover): She loved our singing. And she loved us more than anything in the world.

(Transition to Muriel in her bed, dying, as the kittens stay be here, crying.)

Cleo (Voiceover): Then, one day, Muriel had grown sick to the point where she couldn't walk anymore.

(Muriel turned to her cats)

Marina (Voiceover): Then she said to us...

Muriel: (Sickly) Zazu, Marina, Cleo, please don't be sad. When I go to heaven, I will always watch over you three. So, will you please sing me one last song before I go?

(The kittens sing their song sadly. By the end of the song, Muriel has died with a smile on her face. Zazu, Marina and Cleo hug each other and sob. The flashback ends.)

Zazu: (Sadly) And that was the last time we ever saw Muriel. She was so wonderful to me and my sisters...

Banjo - I... I'm so sorry. and You've been living in this building since then?

(Zazu and her sisters nod)

Marina - Did You have an owner?

Banjo: Yes... But I don't believe Dad and Mr. Jones, one of my owners, love me anymore...

Cleo - (To Zazu) The little guy had it rough.

Marina - What do You think, Zazu?

Zazu - Well, would you like to come with Us to the train station tomorrow?

Banjo: The train station?

Zazu - Yes. Once every Saturday, Me and My sisters go to the train station to give entertainment.

Banjo: I see.

Zazu: And afterwards, we'll help you come up with an idea to find your home. What do you say?

Banjo - Sigh. Even If I returned home,  Mr. Jones would just send Me to the animal shelter... I don't know if I even should return home. It's where I first saw the night sky. there were a lot of stars to see.

Crazy Legs - Stars?

Banjo - Yeah. Have You seen any stars in the sky?

Crazy Legs - Well, I've seen the stars a few times when I was very young. and one time in Salt Lake City, during a mass blackout. sadly, with all the lights of the town, We weren't able to see anything at all. But for now... We should rest for the night.

Banjo - Well, OK. (Crazy Legs lets Banjo go into a room where He can sleep for the night.)

Crazy Legs - We'll see You in the morning, Banjo. (Banjo smiles a little bit and goes into the room and looks at the window.) Sigh... I wonder if My parents even know I'm still alive...?

Chapter 7: An Old Enemy
(In another alley, two shadowy figures wander around.)

????: It's a good thing nobody suspected that we broke out of jail. Otherwise... (The taller shadow is revealed to be Lazlo Popham, now with three scars on his right cheek) We would have been in real trouble with the law. Ain't I right, Bubbles?

Bubbles - Grrr...

Lazlo - Now, all that's left is to make that needle-nosed violinist pay for putting Me in the clink.

(Bubbles notices a discarded newspaper that reads '"Beloved Violinist Killed at France! " with a picture of Leopold playing his violin and gives it to Lazlo.)

Lazlo - What is it, Bubbles? (sees the newspaper.) Huh? "Beloved Violinist killed at France". Grr... Oh, well. At least those Axis mugs saved me the trouble. Now, who else should we extort for money?

(Bubbles shrugs)

Lazlo: Bubbles, have I ever told you why I aim to extort people? I only need money, so I can break into show business, and make a whole lot of money doing it.

(Bubbles tilts his head in curiously)

Lazlo: Why, if I were on stage, I could be famous, like Sinatra, Crosby, and Astaire! Girls would pour all over me! I'd be spending summers in Greenland and Winters in Florida! Off course, because of that stupid cat, no girl would ever want a scar-faced guy like me. Grrrr... How I hate that cat Crazy Legs! He drives me to drink! Anyway, It's time now to extort people of their money.

(A musical number starts as Lazlo and Bubbles strut down the alleyway)

Lazlo: (Singing) Pretty boy Popham's what they call me. I'm the king of the underbelly. I was born and raised in Brooklyn, it's a neighborhood in New York City.

(Lazlo scats while Bubbles plays his saxophone)

Lazlo: (Singing) In Chicago, I was dealing. In Orlando, I was wheeling. In Las Vegas, I like to cheat, cause I ain't kissing nobody's feet.

(Lazlo scats and Bubbles plays again)

Lazlo: (Singing) You better not cross paths with me. I'm the toughest guy in Salt Lake City. I don't like cats 'cause they make me sneeze and they also might be covered with fleas.

(Lazlo scats and Bubbles plays the third time.)

Lazlo: (Singing) Now that you have learned my song, and I know that I can't go wrong, I'm gonna get that cat, Crazy Legs, and I'll break him open like a hard-boiled egg!

(Bubbles plays his saxophone for a solo)

Lazlo: Pretty boy Popham... (Does a pose) Is what they called me.

(The song ends.)

Lazlo - Now, We extort. (runs off into the night with Bubbles follows.)

(The scene changes to the Farm in Payson where Mr. And Mrs. Jones return. Rusty rushes up to them)

Mr. Jones - I'm sorry, Rusty. We searched From home to Orem. We weren't able to find Banjo.

(Rusty starts to tear up. Mr. Jones comforts him, then tears up too)

Mr. Jones: Could it be that... I pushed Banjo too far to the point where he doesn't want to come home?

Mrs. Jones: We can't give up, George. We just can't.

(Rusty walks outside and consoles Amber.)

Rusty - Amber, I'll search for Banjo, at first light.

Amber - Rusty... Do you think that Banjo might want to return after all this?

Rusty - Well, Chances are that Banjo is between here and where the Obedience School is. At Dawn,  I'll start the search.

Amber: On Your own? But, It's cold outside.

Rusty: But it's my fault that I‘ve gotten my son in harm's way. Lost somewhere dangerous.

Amber - Just... promise me you’ll return safely with our son, Please.

Rusty - I will. Once It’s dawn, I’ll sneak in the truck, and without being seen, I’ll go as far as the obedience school when The Jones return home, where Banjo would have been. I can only hope it’s... not too late. (Nuzzles Amber, as Emily and Jean watch.)

Emily - You know, there have been some times that Banjo was... nice.

Jean - You’re right. (Flashback to a night near Halloween, where Banjo jumps into an empty pumpkin, making the sisters laugh as the flashback ends.)

Emily - of course, We tattled on Our brother sometimes, when He did something wrong.

Jean - do You think He could have got back at Us in some way?

Emily - Maybe, Maybe not. But... who can say? (The sisters look at the night sky.)

Chapter 8: Tundra the Lonely Kitten
(The next morning, Zazu and Her sisters are practicing as Crazy Legs is asleep under One of the tablecloths.

(In another room, Banjo is looking out the window, remembering the good times He had with His family. including the time looked at the night sky with His father, Penelope letting Banjo rest on her lap, Mrs. Jones giving Banjo a warm bowl of milk, Mr. Jones playing a lullaby for Banjo with his banjo, letting His sisters have His water bowl, and His mother keeping Him warm on a chilly night. Banjo then sheds tears, but reacts when He hears a faint meow.)

Cleo: Did you hear something?

Marina: It sounds like a kitten in need of help.

Banjo - Crazy? Crazy!

(Crazy Legs wakes up.)

Banjo: Did You hear that?

Zazu - Sounds like another kitten needs help.

Crazy Legs - I'll check, so long as I won't be seen by the straycatchers. Let's go, Banjo (He and Banjo exit through a crawl space and they see a crying Himalayan kitten.)

Banjo: (Approaching the kitten) Hey, are you okay?

Kitten: (Sobbing) No. I... I just got separated from My family...

Banjo: How?

Kitten - Well, The rest of My family were adopted by a person who came from a place called Salem. I wasn't adopted with them, so... I'm all alone... I don't have anywhere to go...

(Banjo comforts her)

Banjo: How would you like to come back with me and Crazy Legs?

Crazy Legs - Um, I don’t think...

Kitten: Please don't leave me alone... I'm scared...

Banjo - She needs someone with Her. (Nuzzles the Kitten, causing Her to hugs Banjo, as She purrs.)

Crazy Legs - Aw... kitten love.

Banjo - I... I’m Banjo.

Kitten - Nice to meet You. I’m Tundra.

Banjo - And, where is Salem?

Crazy Legs - Hmm. There’s lots of towns and cities with the name Salem. One in particular, is the one in Massachusetts.

Banjo: Oh.

Tundra - No, it’s not in Massachusetts.

(Soon, the trio return to the building where Zazu, Marina and Cleo are getting ready)

Banjo - Now, Me and the others are going to a train station later tonight, Tundra. And If You want, You can come along.

Tundra: Yes, please.

Zazu - Well, I assume you’ve Have it rough, too? Do You want to see Your Family again, as well?

Tundra - “As Well”?

Zazu - Well, the little guy was away from His family, as well.

Tundra: Oh. Banjo, don't you miss your family?

Banjo: Well, Not My Dad. But I miss My Mom and My Sisters.

Crazy Legs: Banjo, may I have a say in this?

Banjo - Go ahead.

Crazy Legs - Thanks. Banjo, I don't think your dad or Owner hate you. Sure, they might be a little strict towards you, but deep down, they care a whole lot about you. I'll bet you a fishhead that they're looking for you as of right now. What I'm trying to say is that you shouldn't refuse to go home.

Banjo - Well, I was barely awake as I was put in an animal crate Inside a van to be taken to the animal shelter.

(Crazy Legs shows a piece of the animal crate that reads "To Midvale Obedience School")

Crazy Legs: I found this last night while looking for food.

Banjo - "Midvale Obedience School"? "Student #79, Banjo". I was... to be taken to an obedience school, not the animal shelter? (Crazy Legs nods as Banjo sheds tears.) Crazy... I... I want to go home... I miss my family... (Cries as He hugs Tundra, making Her console Him.)

Crazy Legs: Well, don't you worry. We'll figure how to get you home. (To Zazu, Marina, Cleo, and Tundra) Right, girls?

Girls - Right!

Tundra - Is... Banjo's Home south of here?

Crazy Legs - Well, Banjo's home is in Payson, so...

Tundra - Payson? Banjo? May I ask you something?

Banjo - Yes, what is it?

Tundra: Can I... Can I live with you?

Banjo - W-What?

Crazy Legs - But... Don't You want to see Your family again?

Tundra: Yes... But...

Crazy Legs - But, what?

Tundra: I don't even know Which Salem to go to.

Crazy Legs - Well, chances are, I’m sure they still want You. Now, You said Your family lives in Salem, right?

Tundra: Yes.

Crazy Legs - Hmm. I'll go to the Library to find any towns or cities called Salem. Oh, and I'll meet You at the train station.

Banjo - Ok. Best of luck.

(An hour later, Crazy Legs arrives at the Library and sneaks in through a window. Soon, He finds a map of Utah and reads it.)

Crazy Legs - Hmm. Lindon, Orem, Springfield, Spring Fork, ah, Here. Salem. and-- Hey, It's 3 and a half miles away from Payson. (Afterwards, he exits the library and heads for the train station. Back at the apartment...)

Tundra - Um, is there a room with a vent that leads to the first floor?

Zazu - Yes. Why?

Tundra - Just a precaution in case any intruder comes here.

(Meanwhile, in another town, called Lehi, Mr. and Mrs. Jones decide to head home for the night, but unknown to them, Rusty exits the truck and continues on ahead to search for Banjo.)

Rusty: Hang on, son. I'm coming.

Mr. Jones: Mary, maybe you were right. I shouldn't have been so harsh on Banjo. For some odd reason, I could have sworn I heard him purring earlier...

Mrs. Jones: George, you were probably having anxiety. We can continue tomorrow morning. (Rusty runs north.)

Rusty - Banjo, You had every right to be angry with Me. Please be safe, wherever You are. (Flashbacks of Rusty's good memories with Banjo race in Rusty's mind.)

Chapter 9: Tundra and Banjo
(Meanwhile, Back in Salt Lake City, at a train station, Tundra looks at the Cat Sisters who are practicing.)

Tundra: (To Banjo) They must be really good.

Banjo - Very. and practice makes perfect. (Tundra kisses Banjo.) Wha-- Why'd You do that?

Tundra: Because I want to thank you for taking me in. (Nuzzles Banjo's neck as She purrs.)

Banjo - Well-- You're welcome, I guess. (Blushes)

Crazy Legs - Banjo! Tundra! I found the town of Salem!

Banjo: (To Crazy Legs) You have? Where is it?

Crazy Legs - Well, it’s a few miles away from Payson.

Tundra - Payson?

Crazy Legs - Where Banjo lives.

Banjo: Yeah. But how can We get to our homes?

Crazy Legs: If only we had some transportation. Zazu, any of the trains going to Payson and Salem?

Zazu - Well, no. Unless Tundra wants to go to Salem in Massachusetts.

Tundra - Where Our kind nearly faced extinction because of stupid-stitious humans who think cats are disguised as witches? Never.

Zazu: I believe you mean superstitious.

Crazy Legs: Well, I guess we'll have to walk from here to Salem.

Zazu - Not a chance. You’ll catch your death of cold. But, I promise, We’ll find some way. In the meantime, Banjo, Tundra, why don’t You get some rest back at the apartment? And I promise, We’ll take You somewhere fun.

Banjo and Tundra: Okay.

(They leave as the screen  fades out. the screen fades in to Rusty, who is at the town of Midvale.)

Rusty: Well, I'm at Midvale, the last town before the obedience school. I’ll search and hopefully, Banjo’s alright.

(Rusty sees a rich looking cat walking by)

Rusty: Maybe he knows. Sir! Sir. have You seen a van that was heading for the obedience school?

Cat - Ugh. An uncouth Cat. Well, I’ve seen one coming from the south, and that same one came from the north. Probably got sidetracked. Probably overshot it, and came from Salt Lake City. Why do you ask?

Rusty: I'm looking for my kitten. His name is Banjo. He had orange and vanilla fur. And... thanks for the information. (Heads for Salt Lake City.) I only hope I’m not too late.

Chapter 10: Tundra's Story
(Banjo and Tundra are walking on their way to the apartment.)

Banjo - Tundra, how were You separated from Your family?

Tundra - Well, My parents were once strays. and a few weeks after Me and my brothers were born..

(Flashback to Tundra and Her three brothers being born, as Their Dad, a Siamese-breed cat, and Their Mom, a Persian Cat watched.)

Tundra’s Mother - Ah... four kittens composed of three males, and one female.

Tundra’s Father - And once We have a home of our own...

Tundra’s Mother: We'll live comfortably for the rest of our lives.

Tundra - (Voice Over) Sadly, We never had a chance to search. (The Straycatcher pursues Tundra's family.)

Straycatcher: Come back here! (Moments later, Tundra’s family was captured.) You’ll fetch a small fortune. I can't say the same for Your mongrel kittens.

Tundra - (Voice Over) We were taken to the animal shelter soon after. (Tundra’s family is put in a cage.) And We know full well that any cat or dog that goes in the animal shelter, would have a month, and then afterward... (They see one of the workers take in an elderly Bloodhound through a door.) Well, you don't want to know... A Few days later, My family was gone, when I woke up.

Banjo: You never saw your family again?!

Tundra - and from what I heard from that worker...

Worker - Sorry, girl. The rest of your family got adopted by a couple in Salem. They wanted You, too, but they... didn’t have enough money. Maybe one day, someone else will adopt you.

Tundra - (Voice Over) after hearing this, I then decided to exit the pound. So, a few hours later, when everyone was asleep, I noticed a crack in the cage walls, which was big enough for Me to squeeze through and exit the pound with my life. And that's how I ended up in the alley.

Banjo - Tundra... I didn’t know.

Tundra: I just hope they're all okay.

Banjo - I’m sure they are, Tundra. (Nuzzles Tundra.)

Tundra - Aw... I think You’ll make a great husband, Banjo.

Banjo - H...Husband? I don't know, I'm too young to be a husband. Let's... Let's just be friends for now. Besides, Mr. Jones think that underage marriage is illegal.

Tundra - Ha. I’m sure it only applies to humans. Besides, once the both of Us reach one human year of age, then, We’ll get married.

Banjo - Tundra, the second You get to Salem and Me to Payson. We might not see each other as much.

Tundra - Well, nothing lasts forever. (Tundra nuzzles Banjo.)

Banjo: (Blushing) Yeah... (They go inside the apartment.)

Chapter 11: The Showdown
(Two pairs of eyes are seen watching Banjo and Tundra go inside.)

Voice - Ah. I think I found You dinner.

Voice: Grrr....

(Lazlo and Bubbles emerge from the shadows)

Lazlo: And as soon as you're finished eating those two, we can get our revenge.

(Bubbles goes inside the apartment building.)

Lazlo: (Goes inside as well) Sheesh, doesn't anybody live here anymore? Ugh. It’s covered in cobwebs. No matter. I guess it's a place where Cats thrive. (To Bubbles) for You, It's an all-You-can-eat Restaurant.

(In Banjo’s room, He looks at the rain clouds.)

Banjo - Mom... Dad... I wonder if I’ll ever see You again... (Sees Visions of Amber, Rusty, Emily, Mr. Jones, Mrs. Jones, Penelope, and Jean.) Good night... (Sheds a few tears.)

(Bubbles follows Banjo’s trail, which leads to a closed door.)

Lazlo: Aha, so somebody must be in there. You're going to have kitten fricassee tonight. (Goes to Smash the door down, But wakes Banjo.)

Banjo - Huh?

Lazlo: Rise and shine, little kitty!

(Bubbles licks his chops)

Banjo: Uh oh...

(Banjo makes a run for the upper floors as Bubbles and Lazlo chase him.)

Lazlo: Come back here! Bubbles, You guard the stairs so He won’t escape.

Banjo - Tundra! Help! (He runs inside Tundra’s room and locks The door.) Tundra! Bad News! A scary-looking man and a scarier-looking mutt is in the building!

Tundra: What?! That really is bad news. We've got to get back to the train station!

Banjo - But how will we escape? That guy will find us at any time And His Dog is guarding the lowest floor.

Tundra - Not likely.

Banjo - What Are you saying?

Tundra - Banjo, there’s a reason I wanted a room with a vent. (removes a ventilation grill and goes inside the duct.) Well? you coming? (Banjo jumps inside the ventilation duct as Tundra places the ventilation grill back.)

Banjo: Where does this lead?

Tundra - Banjo, We have to get help.

(She and Banjo crawl through the vent and the exit the building, but Bubbles spot them as They go through the doors. Bubbles then barks, getting Lazlo 's attention)

Lazlo: I see that you found them. Come on!

(They pursue Banjo and Tundra. Meanwhile, Rusty arrives at the entrance of Salt Lake City.)

Rusty: So, this is Salt Lake City. Banjo, I can only hope You’re alright.

(He looks around the Junkyard, and locates a license that says “Midvale Obedience School student #79, Banjo of Payson Utah”.)

Rusty: He must have been here. (Leaves the junkyard. scene changes to a park, where Banjo and Tundra try to hide from Lazlo and Bubbles.)

Banjo: If only Crazy Legs was here, he'd give those guys what for.

(They see Crazy Legs, along with Zazu and her sisters.)

Tundra: It's them! Come on, Banjo!

(Banjo and Tundra meow for help, and Crazy Legs notices them.)

Crazy Legs - Huh? (Sees Banjo and Tundra in a tree.) It’s Banjo and Tundra. Why are they—? (Notices Popham and Bubbles.) It’s Popham! Why is He trying to get those two? Girls, go and get help!

Lazlo: They must be around here some... (Notices Crazy Legs and snaps) You... (Gets out his gun)

(Bubbles snarls at Crazy Legs.)

Banjo - Crazy! Look out!

Crazy Legs - Banjo? (Notices Lazlo aiming His gun.) Whoa!

Lazlo: You're cat meat!

(Lazlo shoots at Crazy Legs, but misses all six shots, and reloads)

Lazlo - Ugh. Bubbles, tear that cat apart!

(Bubbles lunges at Crazy Legs, but Crazy Legs hops up the tree and Bubbles slams into the tree)

Crazy Legs: Hold onto my back, kittens! We're outta here!

(He tackles Lazlo who was loading bullets in His gun, after being tackled, He loses all the other bullets.)

Lazlo: Bubbles! Don't stand there like a dummy, go after them while I get some more ammo.

(Bubbles chases Crazy Legs through the park, then the junkyard.)

Crazy Legs: This ain't good. This ain't good at all.

Bubbles: Grrr... You're gonna pay for that scar, you moth-eating dope!

Banjo - You know Him, Crazy?

Crazy Legs - Yeah. That's Popham's Mutt. We have to get back to the apartments.

Tundra - No, That Mutt and His owner tracked Me and Tundra inside.

Banjo: Besides, we'll be trapped the moment they see us in there again!

Crazy Legs - Hmm... Banjo, Tundra? Head for the Train Station while I stay and fight off Bubbles.

Banjo - Why?

Crazy Legs - I have to keep Him from pursuing You. Now, Go.

Tundra - But, You might not--

Crazy Legs - Go! (Banjo and Tundra make a run for it.)

Bubbles: What's the matter, Crazy Legs? Give up running?

Crazy Legs - I don't know what grudge You have against Banjo and Tundra, but don't You dare hurt them! They haven't done anything to you!

Bubbles - Heh. They'll be dessert once I'm done with You.

(Lazlo enters, get out his gun.)

Lazlo: Bubbles, let him have it!

(Bubbles fights Crazy Legs as He tries to hold Him off as Lazlo aims his gun at Crazy Legs. Lazlo fires a few times, but misses as Crazy Legs throws Bubbles off. Just then Crazy Legs trips. In another part of town, Rusty hears the gunshots.)

Rusty - What's going on? (Races to where the gunshots are fired.) Ohh, I hope Banjo isn’t in any trouble...

Lazlo: Heheheheheh... You were almost lucky that the shops were closed. but nothing a little rock shattering the window couldn't get Me additional bullets.

(Bubbles and Lazlo surround Crazy Legs. Lazlo is unaware that Banjo and Tundra are above him, standing on a windowpane, with two flower pots beside him. He starts pushing one of them as Tundra pushes the other.)

Lazlo: First, I'm gonna blow your brains out. Then, I'm gonna have you flown to China and...

Policeman - Freeze!

(Lazlo turns around, but he is unfazed as he points his gun at Crazy Legs.)

Lazlo - One wrong move, coppers, and I'll make this cat feel the sting of these bullets--

(Banjo successfully pushes the flower pot and it lands on Lazlo's head, knocking him out. Bubbles looks up and the second flower pot knocks him out too.)

Policeman - What in--? (Sees Banjo and Tundra on the windowpane.) Did You see that?

Policeman 2: It looks like they saved that cat's life.

Crazy Legs - Huh? (Sees Banjo and Tundra.) Banjo! Tundra! I... I don't know what to say!

(The Policemen arrest Lazlo as They put Bubbles in a cage as Banjo and Tundra go to the ground.)

Policeman: You kittens should be rewarded for stopping these criminals. We’ve been looking for this guy since He broke out of jail. (To Lazlo, as he regains consciousness) and You’re under arrest for escaping prison, attempted murder of a cat, vandalism, breaking and entering, and theft.

Lalzo: Hmph, Stupid kittens... When I get out, They’ll pay with their lives.

Policeman 2 - Hey. (Notices Crazy Legs.) You must be Leopold Wood’s Cat. (Picks up Crazy Legs.) Look, I’m sorry about what happened to Your owner. Now, I know it won’t be the same, but Leopold’s sister has a family of Her own. And She wants You to live with Her.

(Banjo goes up to Crazy Legs.)

Zazu - Crazy...

Policeman - Huh. (Reads Banjo’s license.) Hmm. ”Banjo, 555-2265, Payson, Utah.”

Policeman 2: hey. (Notices Zazu and Her sisters.) I assume You three want to go with Leopold’s cat (The three cats nod) Well, You needn’t worry. You’ll all be going to see Leopold’s Sister, soon.

Crazy Legs - Well, Banjo... Tundra... I guess it’s goodbye. But have this, as a token of Our friendship and for saving Me. (Tosses His bowler hat To Banjo.)

Banjo - Thanks, Crazy. I'll treasure it.

(As Crazy Legs along with Zazu and Her sisters go with the policeman with Crazy Legs.)

Crazy Legs - You're very welcome. and Goodbye. (A camera flash blinds Banjo and Tundra for a few seconds.) Ohh!

Newsreporter: Wait until the Salt Lake Tribune gets a hold of this. “Two kittens aid capture of escaped criminal”.

(Rusty manages to reach the area and sees Banjo there.)

Rusty: Banjo?

(Banjo notices Rusty, then tearfully hugs Him. Rusty hugs back, tearing up as well.)

Banjo - Daddy! It's really You!

Rusty - Ohh, Son. I'm glad You're safe. Where did You get that hat?

Banjo - From a new friend. (Waves to Crazy Legs as He and the cat sisters wave back.)

Tundra - (Thinking) Well, Banjo. I'm glad Your family found You. But...

Policeman - Um... If You'd like, I'll take You three to the station so Your owners can pick You up.

Rusty - Three? (Notices Tundra.)

Tundra - Hello, Banjo's Dad. (The Screen Blacks out)

Chapter 12: Welcome Home
(Nighttime At Banjo's Home, Amber is asleep alongside Emily and Jean. Mr. Jones is seen sick in bed as a doctor tends to him. Mrs. Jones and Penelope are by the cats. A phone rings, which wakes the kittens. Mrs. Jones answers the phone.)

Mrs. Jones - Hello? Huh? Banjo is found? (Emily and Jean who listened wake Their Mom.) Where was he? Oh! I see! I'll be over right away!

(She hangs up.)

Mrs. Jones - (To the others) They found Banjo! (Knocks on the door.) Doctor, tell George that I’m going to bring Banjo Home. (She picks up the basket where Amber and Her daughters are as They head for the Truck.) Penny, We’re going to Salt Lake City.

Penelope: Salt Lake City?

Mrs. Jones - Yes. Banjo's been found.

Penelope - Yippee! They found Banjo! (She goes inside the truck and Mrs. Jones drives the truck, heading for Salt Lake City.)

(Later, as the sun was rising over the Salt Lake City Police Station, Banjo and Tundra are asleep, as Rusty watches over them.)

Rusty: (Thinking) Banjo, You had every right to be angry with Our owners and Me. I... I can't only hope You'll forgive Me.

Man - Excuse Me, Sir. I got word an hour ago that someone from Salem, wants to adopt the long-haired kitten.

Teenager - Whoa there! (Three male Himalayan Kittens come inside the Station.) Hey! (Tundra wakes up and sees the kittens.)

Man - Officer, I'm terribly sorry.

Tundra - Beluga? Lemming? Norse?

Lemming - Tundra! It's You! (They Gather around Tundra.)

Teenager: Hey, dad! We found their sister!

Banjo - Sister? Then You must be Tundra's Brothers.

Norse - Correct. And You must be the kitten who kept Our Sister safe.

Male Voice - Ok, It's time to return home, Kids. (Banjo sees a Male Siamese Cat and a Female Persian Cat walk in.)

Tundra - That voice. Daddy? (Hugs His Father.) Daddy! It IS You!

Rusty - I... assume You're Tundra's Parents?

Siamese Cat - Yes. and You must be the little guy's Father. I'm Airdrop. This is My Wife, Sawdust. (Gesturing to his sons) These are my sons, (Gesturing to the girl.) And that Adolescent over there is Alison.

Rusty - Nice to meet You. I'm Rusty. (Shakes Airdrop's paw.)

Tundra - I’m sorry I made You worry, Daddy. (She starts to feel depressed.)

Beluga - What is it?

Tundra - Um... just give Me a moment. (Walks toward Banjo) Banjo...? I... I know We met yesterday, but... I’m going to miss You, Banjo.

Banjo - Tundra, I...(Gets hugged by Tundra.)

Tundra - Banjo, I’ll always be with You, Banjo. In My memories, and in My heart. (Kisses Banjo on the mouth, making Banjo blush.)

Banjo: Wow...

Tundra - Even though I’ll live in Salem--

Rusty - Salem? It’s Not all that far away from Payson.

Tundra - It’s not?

Rusty - Well, of course not. Just a mile or two away. You can visit Us anytime You want.

Tundra - Wow. Thank You, uh... Banjo’s Dad.

Amber - Son? (Rusty Sees Mrs. Jones, Penelope, Amber, Emily, and Jean come in.) Rusty! You’re here. W...Where’s Banjo? (She sees Banjo playing with Emily and Jean.) Oh.

Jean - Brother, where did You get that hat?

Emily - I’ve been meaning to ask that, too.

Rusty - It was a memento to a new friend of Banjo’s, girls.

Mrs. Jones: (To the officer) Thank you for finding Banjo and Rusty. My husband became sick after trying to find Banjo all night.

Banjo - Sick?

Officer - In Any case, Um...

Mrs. Jones - Mrs. Jones.

Officer - Mrs. Jones, You still want Him to go to the Midvale Obedience School, after You learn of this? (Gives Mrs. Jones the newspaper of Banjo and Tundra's help in arresting Popham.)

Penelope - Huh. "Two Kittens assist Police in Escaped Prisoner's Capture". (Pets Banjo) You're a real hero, Banjo.

(Banjo purrs)

Mrs. Jones: Actually, it was my husband's idea. He wanted Banjo to be a well-behaved cat, but I protested because a kitten like Banjo shouldn't be rushed into maturity. (To Banjo, Who is nuzzling Amber’s arm.) You’re only young once, Banjo. you should enjoy your youth to the fullest. Now, let’s head for home.

Officer - Oh, and there was a bounty on the criminal’s capture. And since Those two helped out, Their owners can split the $5,000.

Mrs. Jones: I'm sure the other kitten's owners will be very happy.

(Later, Mrs. Jones drives the van as Penelope is asleep, and Banjo’s family watch the environment as they near home. Banjo then sees Crazy Legs and the Cat Sisters. Banjo waves to them, as Crazy Legs waves back. Arriving home, Banjo races inside the Jones house and sees Mr. Jones is in bed, still sick and sleeping. Just then, he heard a soft meow. He opens his eyes and sees Banjo on his stomach. He then tears up)

Mr. Jones: Banjo...

(He pets Banjo)

Mr. Jones: Banjo, I’m sorry that I made You think I gave You up. But, You have My word that You don’t have to go to an obedience school. (Sheds tears.) Once I’m healed I’ll make it up to You.

Narrator - A few days later, Jones recovered from His sickness, and Banjo was free to enjoy life to His heart’s content. (Rusty and Amber see their kittens play tag.) Oh, also, Tundra and Her family visit sometimes. (Tundra and Her brothers play tag as well, with Tundra tickling Emily in the stomach.)

Emily: Hey, that tickles! Ha Ha Ha Ha!

Lemming - You show Her, Tundra! Uh-Oh. (Jean and Banjo chase Lemming.) Bet you can't catch me!

(Sometime later, on New Year's Eve, Banjo along with His family, and friends gather at the party in the barn as the Jones Family celebrate inside the house.)

Narrator: By and by, Banjo's friends would come and visit him at the Jones' farm. Every now and then, Banjo would remember all the adventures he had with his friends at Salt Lake City.

(A few hours later, when the new year arrives, everyone celebrates as Leopold's song is heard playing on the radio.)

Edwina: And now, a toast for Banjo, Tundra, Crazy Legs, and a tribute to My brother, Leopold Wood.

Everyone: A toast!!

Mr. Jones: Now...

Banjo: (Singing) I'll stick with you if you stick with me, together we'll overcome adversity.

Tundra’s Parents: (Singing) And Old Man Trouble will have to let you be...

Tundra: (Singing) 'Cause you're gonna come out smiling if you stick with me!

Crazy Legs, Mr. Jones, Alison's father, and Rusty: (Singing) You're gonna come out smiling....

Jean, Penelope, Alison, and Emily: (Singing) You're gonna come out smiling...

Zazu, Marina, Cleo, Mrs. Jones, and Amber: (Singing) You're gonna come out smiling...

Beluga, Lemming, and Norse: (Singing) You're gonna come out smiling...

All: (Singing) You're gonna come out smiling if you stick with me!

(The song ends as Mr. Jones sets up a camera, and goes in the picture as it flashes.)

Final Chapter: After The Adventure
(The screen ripples and the scene changes to the barn, where an orange cat finishes his story to four kittens..)

Narrator - Banjo was still mischievous, but not as much as He was, and life couldn’t Have gotten better, as He’ll always be with His family for the rest of His life. The End.

Kitten: Is that how it really happened?

Narrator - Of course it did, because I was there. In case You still don’t believe... (shows His kittens a newspaper clipping of Banjo and Tundra.)

Kitten 2 - Huh. Banjo looks a lot like you, only... younger?

Narrator (Adult Banjo): That's correct.

Adult Tundra - Banjo? Kids? look outside. The shooting stars are beautiful to watch. Come on! (Banjo and His kittens come outside of the barn to see the night sky. And one of the kittens see a shooting star, but for a split-second.)

KItten: Ooh! Mama! Papa! Did you see that?

Adult Banjo - I think I did.

Adult Emily - Brother, How's everything? (Her two kittens come around.)

Adult Jean - Yeah, How's everything? (Her three kittens come around.)

Adult Banjo - Going great. We're watching the shooting stars.

Adult Jean: Interesting.

Older Rusty - It’s beautiful.

Older Amber - With that many falling stars...

(Penelope, now 13, approaches the cats with food and water bowls.)

Penelope: Time for dinner, everyone. (Places the bowls on the ground.) Enjoy. (Banjo’s three kittens enjoy the food as He watches the sky, then looks at the barn.)

Adult Banjo - Um... kids, We’ll be going to bed in a few minutes. Just letting You know. (Nuzzles Adult Tundra’s neck, then, We zoom out on the barn and the words “The End” appears and the screen blacks out.)

(Later that night, inside the barn, as everyone else is asleep, Banjo wakes up and quietly opens a photo album, which contains pictures of Banjo along with His family and friends as the credits roll.)

The End