Relic Radio Sci-Fi – "The Flying Saucers" by 2000 Plus

Release Date: December 16, 2024
Host/Author: RelicRadio.com

Introduction

"The Flying Saucers," an enthralling episode from the 2000 Plus series, delves into a gripping narrative of extraterrestrial intervention and psychological manipulation. Set against the backdrop of a secret military installation in New Mexico, the story masterfully intertwines themes of trust, betrayal, and the ethical implications of using humanity as experimental subjects by an advanced alien civilization.

Setting the Scene

The episode opens with a military installation in New Mexico under the scorching sun, where the audience is introduced to Dr. Andrew Bronson, a leading scientist involved in extraterrestrial research, and his assistant, Eileen Harkness.

• Timestamp [02:35]

  Dr. Andrew Bronson: "Better close that window, Eileen. The noise won't let a man think."

Here, Dr. Bronson is depicted as a meticulous and authoritative figure, emphasizing the gravity of their secretive work on defense measures against unidentified aerial phenomena, colloquially known as "flying saucers."

The Mission Unfolds

Dr. Bronson instructs Eileen to document a vital report intended for high-level military and governmental bodies. The urgency and secrecy surrounding their work are palpable as they discuss the recent uptick in flying saucer sightings correlating with their missile tests.

• Timestamp [03:09]

  Dr. Andrew Bronson: "Heading top secret to National Scientific Council. Copies to Joint Chiefs of Staff, Secretary of Defense, the President."

The narrative builds tension as Dr. Bronson reveals their readiness to defend Earth against these potential threats using an upgraded missile system, Zeus 2.

Rising Tensions and Suspicion

As preparations for another missile test intensify, Al Waters, a security officer, raises concerns about the frequent saucer sightings coinciding with their tests, hinting at possible information leaks.

• Timestamp [07:30]

  Al Waters: "Every time we get ready for a test... one of the saucers... appears... too much of a coincidence for comfort, sir."

This suspicion adds a layer of internal conflict, suggesting that someone within the organization might be compromising their operations.

Climactic Confrontation

During a critical moment, a flying saucer approaches, triggering the deployment of Zeus 2. As missiles are launched to intercept the saucer, a dramatic turn of events unfolds when Dr. Bronson and Eileen investigate a reported saucer wreck near a ranch.

• Timestamp [12:17]

  Core Operative: "There's the flying saucer dog."

As they inspect the undamaged saucer, the true nature of their mission is revealed. It becomes apparent that Dr. Bronson and Eileen are not merely Earth's defenders but operatives of an alien civilization known as Core.

Revelation of Alien Manipulation

The Core Operatives divulge their long-term involvement in Earth's development, explaining that humanity has been unknowingly manipulated for their psychological experiments over the past 3,000 years.

• Timestamp [17:42]

  Core Operative: "We've been visiting the Earth for over 3000 years."

They justify their actions by stating that their research prevents their civilization from succumbing to eternal boredom, positioning humanity as essential subjects for their social psychological studies.

Emotional Betrayal and Resistance

A poignant moment arises when Dr. Bronson confronts the reality of their manipulation and expresses his love for Eileen, challenging the Core's narrative and asserting his autonomy.

• Timestamp [24:30]

  Dr. Andrew Bronson: "Eileen, darling, it's too late now, but I want you to know I love you. I've loved you ever since you walked into my office three years ago."

This declaration signifies a critical shift, as emotions, previously dismissed by Core as "senseless," become a source of unexpected power and resistance.

Final Showdown and Liberation

In the climactic finale, Dr. Bronson outsmarts the Core Operative by utilizing a gas pen, incapacitating the alien and reclaiming their agency. He urges Eileen to join him in resisting the Core's control, emphasizing the power of human emotion and love.

• Timestamp [26:10]

  Dr. Andrew Bronson: "Sympathy is the ability to feel what others feel. How do you feel now, Loka?"

This act of defiance underscores the theme that human emotions can transcend manipulation, offering hope for reclaiming Earth's destiny.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Dr. Andrew Bronson: "Better close that window, Eileen. The noise won't let a man think."
  [02:35]

• Al Waters: "Every time we get ready for a test... one of the saucers... appears... too much of a coincidence for comfort, sir."
  [07:30]

• Core Operative: "You are perhaps the leading scientist in America... Doesn't that suggest something to you?"
  [20:14]

• Dr. Andrew Bronson: "You can put that gun away. Let me take care of Ms. Harkness."
  [15:25]

• Dr. Andrew Bronson: "I've never told you."
  [06:36]

• Core Operative: "We want Earth left strictly alone for our research."
  [17:25]

• Dr. Andrew Bronson: "Sympathy is the ability to feel what others feel. How do you feel now, Loka?"
  [26:10]

Conclusion and Insights

"The Flying Saucers" serves as a compelling exploration of hidden manipulations and the quest for autonomy. Through the character arcs of Dr. Bronson and Eileen, the episode highlights the resilience of human emotion against dehumanizing forces. The narrative challenges listeners to ponder the ethical boundaries of scientific experimentation and the profound impact of love and sympathy as forces of resistance.

The episode's intricate plot, combined with its rich character development and thought-provoking themes, makes "The Flying Saucers" a standout installment in the Relic Radio Sci-Fi series. It not only entertains but also invites introspection on humanity's vulnerability and strength in the face of unseen adversaries.

Behind the Scenes

Produced and directed by Dreyer and Reynolds, with the script penned by Vier Gerson, "The Flying Saucers" features:

• Voice Cast:

  • Dr. Andrew Bronson: Ralph Bell
  • Waters: Louis Van Ruten
  • Eileen: Brianna Rayburn
  • Scotty: Ken Williams

• Music: Composed by Elliot Jacoby, conducted by Emerson Buckley

• Sound Effects: Walt Shaver and Adrian Fenner

• Engineering: Martin Enghauser

Looking Forward

Tune in next week for another thrilling episode of 2000 Plus, as the series continues to transport listeners to "a world of the past locked in the world of tomorrow." Don't miss out on more adventures filled with horror, strange tales, science fiction, and crime, available for free at RelicRadio.com.

This summary encapsulates the essence of "The Flying Saucers," ensuring that both regular listeners and newcomers can appreciate the depth and excitement of the episode.