(soft jingle) (upbeat dramatic music) (soft dramatic music) (intense music) (people yelling) >> All right, George!

(intense music) (people yelling) >> Conway!

Conway, we can't take more than seven.

>> All right.

I'm sorry but there's another plane in a minute.

All right, go on.

(intense music) (people yelling) (speaking in foreign language) (intense music) (people yelling) Wait, wait, wait, everybody, wait.

There are plenty of planes coming.

Now everybody have patience, you'll be all right.

>> Civilian: Well it won't be long, will it?

>> George: Nothing to worry about.

Leave everything to my brother.

>> Officer: Yes sir, seven passengers aboard.

>> Colonel Marsh: Seven passengers, good.

>> Say, get me Shanghai.

>> Talking to them now, sir.

>> Hello, hello?

>> Hello, hello?

>> Conway speaking, is Colonel Marsh there?

>> Colonel Marsh: Right here, Conway, go ahead.

>> Colonel, I need more planes.

I've still about 30 people to get off.

Where are those planes you promised us?

>> Colonel Marsh: We sent everything we could find, Conway.

>> Well they'd better get here soon or I can't be responsible for-- >> Conway, I think I hear motions.

>> Colonel, wait a minute, they may be here now.

Hey George, get down to the field and guide those planes in when they get here.

>> Yes, sir.

>> And be sure none of the natives get in.

Hello, Colonel.

>> Hello, Conway, yes.

>> Thanks and take care of that liver of yours.

>> Colonel Marsh: Upon my word.

>> All right, get ready, everybody.

Planes are here.

One at a time, children first, where are they?

Come on now, come and stand over here.

Where's the mother?

>> They're orphans, Mr. Conway.

>> I see, all right.

Well you come, you come here.

And you, and you.

>> What about us, Mr. Conway?

>> Yeah, what about us?

>> Please, wait your turn.

Come on, you.

>> You better take some of those squealing men with you first.

They might faint on you, I'll wait.

>> Just as you say.

You, madam.

Come through here, wait on one side.

(loud rumbling) (screaming) Don't lose your head now!

>> They've fired at us, they've fired at the planes and burned out our lights.

>> Come on, we'll burn the hangar.

That'll make light for them.

(intense music) (people yelling) Gentlemen, gentlemen, there's gonna be a big fire.

(intense music) (people yelling) All right, go ahead.

We go for the next plane, bring out any people that left.

(intense music) Hello, Finna.

>> Hello, Conway.

You having a little trouble?

>> Never mind me, you get this gadget off the ground.

>> These are all that are left.

>> Come on, quick.

(intense music) (people yelling) >> You can't leave me here, you bother.

I'm a British subject.

(intense music) (people yelling) (gunshots blasting) >> All right, Finna, go ahead.

Get on the floor, everybody.

All right, fly it.

>> George: Finna, let's go.

(gunshots blasting) >> I guess we're out of range.

Everybody all right?

>> That was close, I don't know.

I've never been in a situation like this in my life.

>> Where did you come from?

>> I'm Alexander P. Lovett, sir.

>> Why aren't you registered through our office?

>> It served you right if you'd been left behind.

>> Well, how could I know that a war was going to break out right over my head?

Right over my head, oh my word.

I tell you, those Chinese were pouncing on me from every direction.

I had to get into these ridiculous clothes in order to escape.

>> Where were you hiding?

>> Hiding?

Oh no, no, no, no, hunting.

I was in the interior hunting fossils.

This morning I looked up suddenly-- >> I know, and a war broke out right over your head.

>> The next time you're in wild country like this, keep in touch with the British Consul.

>> (chuckles) very good pressure, very good.

You better put his name on the list.

And make it under report later.

>> I beg you pardon, brother.

What did you say you were hunting?

>> Fossils.

>> Fossils, huh?

>> I'm a paleontologist.

>> A what?

>> A paleontologist.

>> Oh.

I see.

Huh?

>> I have here a discovery that will startle the world.

It's the vertebrae from the lumbar of a megatherium found in Asia.

>> Well, whaddya know about that.

>> Found in Asia.

When I get home, I shall properly be knighted for it.

>> Knighted, you don't say.

You mind if I take a look at it?

>> Oh, not at all.

>> Sorry.

>> This is the only thing I was able to save when those heathens surrounded me.

>> Uh-huh.

>> Do you see, from this vertebrae, I should be able to-- >> Wait a minute.

>> The entire skeleton-- >> You expect to be knighted for finding that soup bowl?

>> This is the vertebrae of a megatherium found in Asia.

>> I remember, you said that before.

>> Sir Henry Durworth was knighted and he never got beyond the Mesozoic era.

>> Oh, poor fella.

>> Yeah, just short...

I don't know why I'm talking to you, don't know you.

Who are you?

>> Okay, brother.

>> Don't call me brother.

>> Okay, sister.

(laughs) Oh frets, oh frets.

(coughing) Cigarette?

I say, will you have a cigarette?

>> No.

>> Say.

You're an American, aren't you?

>> Say listen, will you go and annoy the rest of your playmates?

Let me alone.

>> Now look what I found.

Just what I needed too.

>> Oh, you.

>> Just this once, Bob.

I feel like celebrating.

Think of it, Bob.

A cruiser sent to Shanghai just to take you back to England.

Do you know what it means?

Here you are.

>> Thanks.

>> Don't bother with those cables now.

I want you to drink with me.

Gentlemen, I give you Robert Conway.

England's new foreign secretary.

>> Hurray!

>> (chuckles) How I'm going to bask in reflected glory.

You know, people are going to point to me and say, there goes George Conway, brother of the foreign secretary.

>> Don't talk nonsense, give me the bottle.

>> That's why they're sending for you, Bob.

Of all these foreign entanglements, it was bound to happen.

They need you.

(laughs) All right, you can laugh if you want to.

But whom else can they get?

Who else is there in all of England, half the fighter, half the diplomat, who has half your knowledge of the foreign situation?

They can't stop you now, Bob.

>> Oh, thank you.

Did you make that report out yet?

>> Yes, Bob.

>> Did you say we saved 90 white people?

>> Yes.

>> Good.

Hurray for us.

(laughs) Did you say that we left 10,000 natives down there to be annihilated?

No.

No, you wouldn't say that.

They don't count.

>> You'd better try to get some sleep, Bob.

>> Just you wait 'til I'm foreign secretary.

(laughs) Can't you just see me, Freshy, with all those other shrewd little foreign secretaries?

You see, the trick is to see who can outtalk the other.

Everybody wants something for nothing.

And if you can't get it with smooth talk, you...

Send your army in.

But I'm going to fool them, Freshy.

I'm not going to have an army.

I'm going to disband mine.

I'm going to sink my battleships.

I'm going to destroy every piece of war craft.

Then when the enemy approaches, we'll say, come in, gentlemen.

What can we do for you?

So then the poor enemy soldiers will stop and think.

And what will they think, Freshy?

They'll say to themselves, there's something wrong here.

We've been duped.

This is not according to form.

These people seem quite friendly, and why should we shoot them?

Then they'll lay down their arms.

See how simple the whole thing is?

(laughs) Centuries of tradition, kicked right in the pants.

(laughs) And now obviously, I've strayed into the nearest insane asylum.

>> You'd better not drink anymore, Bob.

You're not talking sense.

>> Don't worry, George, nothing's going to happen.

I'll fall right into line.

I'll be the good little boy that everybody wants me to be.

I'll be the best little foreign secretary we've ever had.

Just because I haven't the nerve to be anything else.

>> Do try to sleep, Bob.

>> Sleep, yes, good thing, sleep.

Ever notice the sunrise in China, George?

Ah, you should, it's beautiful.

(plane engine roaring) >> Good morning, Lovey.

>> I beg pardon?

>> I say, good morning, Lovey.

>> Good morning, yeah.

Look here, young man.

I didn't care for sister last night and I don't like Lovey this morning.

My name is Lovett, Alexander P. >> I see.

>> Yes.

>> Well, it's a good morning anyway.

>> I'm never conversational before coffee.

>> Hey, wait a minute.

Wait a minute, is it a good morning?

Say.

We're supposed to be traveling East, aren't we?

>> Why of course, yes.

>> Well, it looks to me as if we're traveling West.

>> That's ridiculous.

>> Oh, is it?

>> It certainly is.

>> Well now-- >> Any child knows how to tell direction, any child.

I don't care where the child is.

In the air, on the earth, or in the sea.

If you face the rising sun, your right hand is the North and your left hand is the South.

>> Yeah, I always get it twisted because I'm left handed.

>> Oh really, oh, I see.

>> Yes.

>> Well, you just reverse it.

Your left hand is the... What difference does it make what handed you are?

The North is the North.

>> All I know is the sun rises in the East and we're going away from it.

>> Now you're irritating and absurd.

Oh my word, of course, here.

Boy, boy, we're traveling in the wrong direction.

Wake up!

(claps) We're going in the wrong direction.

>> Couldn't you arrange to make a little less noise?

>> I tell you, we're going West and Shanghai is way East of here.

>> Quiet, Finna's the best pilot in China.

He knows what he's doing.

>> Oh, it's Finna.

>> But he might've lost his way.

>> Of course.

That's what I told him last night.

You can't expect a man to sail around in the dark.

>> All right, all right, calm yourself.

I'll speak to Finna.

(knocking) Finna.

I say, Fin... Bob, Bob, wake up, something's happened.

Listen, Finna's not in the cockpit.

>> Oh, stop it.

>> Well the bloke up there looks like a Chinese or a Mongolian or something.

>> We're nowhere near Shanghai.

We're going in the opposite direction.

>> Over the desert, that's funny.

(knocking) (speaks in foreign language) Charming chap.

>> Not supposed to meet in a dark alley.

>> Well that's that, I guess.

>> Wonder what happened to Finna.

>> Yes, and who is he?

How'd he get there?

Do you suppose we stopped someplace during the night and changed pilots?

>> No, that's not possible.

If we'd landed, we'd all have been awaken.

>> But of course, we never left the air.

I know, I didn't sleep the whole night long.

>> No, that fellow got on at Baskul.

>> Well, what's he doing?

Where's he taking us?

He may be a maniac for all we know.

>> George, what are you gonna do?

>> Drag him out and force him to tell us what his game is.

>> Good.

>> What if he refuses?

>> Well, we'll smash his face in.

That's what we'll do.

>> Brilliant.

Can anyone here fly a plane?

George, that's no good.

I guess we're in for it.

>> In for what?

>> I don't know.

He must've had some purpose in taking the plane away from Finna.

When he lands, we'll find out.

>> You mean to tell me you're not gonna do anything until we land?

>> What do you suggest?

>> Why, you, you, you, you, here, you.

Well, he may dash us to pieces.

>> Well, it might afford you a great deal of relief.

Now gentlemen, I'm going back to sleep.

Oh, I was having such a peaceful dream.

As soon as he lands, let me know.

(plane engine roaring) >> We're heading down.

We're going to land.

Bob, we're landing.

Bob, we're coming to a village.

(horn blows) (people yelling) (intense music) (people yelling) What are these people?

>> I don't know, I can't get their dialect.

(intense music) (people yelling) >> George: Look, they're loading up the gasoline.

(dramatic music) (plane engine roars) >> Imagine having that fuel there, waiting for us.

George, something tells me our journey's just beginning.

>> Where are we going?

Huh?

>> If you ask me, we're heading straight for those mountains.

(dramatic music) >> And this plane from Baskul with Conway and four others aboard still missing.

Unreported between here and Baskul.

(dramatic music) >> Make it very emphatic that His Majesty's government will hold the Chinese government and all governors of Chinese provinces responsible for the complete safety of Robert Conway.

Good morning, gentlemen.

>> Good morning.

>> No news yet, sir?

>> It's fantastic.

The plane couldn't disappear into the thin air.

And cable for the Shanghai.

Leave no stone unturned to find Conway.

Robertson.

>> Yes, sir.

>> Better get a postponement to Pavali's conference.

We can't afford to meet those nations without Conway.

(plane engine roaring) >> This can't be kidnapping.

He wouldn't be taking us so far on such a dangerous trip.

No sense to it.

>> What do you make of it, Bob?

You must have some idea.

>> (chuckles) I give it up.

This not knowing where you're going is exciting anyway.

>> Well, Mr. Conway, for a man supposed to be a leader, your do nothing attitude is very disappointing.

>> Well, what do you want him to do?

>> I don't know.

I'm a paleontologist, not a foreign secretary.

(plane engine roaring) >> Now George, come on.

>> It's not knowing that's so awful, Bob.

Not knowing where you're going or why or what's waiting when you get there.

(plane engine roaring) >> Well, we got above that storm.

(screams) >> I can't stand it any longer.

Take us down, I can't stand to be here any longer!

Let me outta here!

Let me out, I say!

Let me out!

I can't stand it any longer, let me out!

Let me out of here!

(sobbing) >> That's oxygen.

(sobbing) Now, take this in your teeth.

Now, now, now, now, that's right.

Go ahead, now bite, bite on that.

(plane engine roaring) (clanging) >> What's that?

(clanging) What's happening?

>> Robert: He's run out of fuel.

>> George: Look, look down there!

(clanging) >> George, everybody, better get back toward the tail.

The plane ride is over.

Into the corner, quick.

Lots of cushions, lots of blankets.

Take that behind you.

(clanging) (woman screams) Everybody all right?

>> Yeah.

(wind howling) >> What is it, he fainted?

>> Looks like it, do you smell those fumes?

Here, George.

Take the gun.

Hold the light, I'm going to search him before he comes to.

We might find something interesting.

There's the map.

He's dead.

>> Dead?

>> Yes, it must've happened the moment he hit the ground.

Here, let's take a look at this map.

>> What is it?

>> See that spot?

>> Yes.

>> That's where we were this morning, he had it marked.

Right on the border of Tibet.

Here's where civilization ends.

We must be 1000 miles beyond it.

Just a blank on the map.

>> What's it mean?

>> Well, it means we're in unexplored country.

A country nobody ever reached.

(knocking) >> Hey, Conway.

What's happening?

>> George, our chances of getting out of this are pretty slim but it's up to us.

We can't have three hysterical people on our hands.

>> Alexander: Well?

What'd he say?

>> Robert: Well, everything's all right.

The pilot won't travel us anymore, he's dead.

>> Alexander: Dead?

>> Probably a heart attack.

>> Well?

What are we gonna do?

>> Well, there's nothing we can do until the morning.

Storm will probably die down before then.

My suggestion is that we better all try and get a good night's rest.

>> Why don't you tell them the truth?

Why don't you tell them we're a million miles from civilization with no chance of getting out of here alive?

It's slow starvation, that's what it is.

It's slow, horrible, death.

(laughing hysterically) >> Well, that's perfect.

Just perfect.

What a kick I'm gonna get out of this.

A year ago, a doctor gave me six months to live.

That was a year ago.

I'm already six months to the good.

I'm on velvet, I haven't got a thing to lose.

But you.

You, the noble animals of the human race, what a kick I'm gonna get out of watching you squirm for a change.

What a kick.

(laughing hysterically) (coughing) (soft music) >> They've been gone for hours.

Left us here to rot, that's what they've done.

Heroes of the newspapers.

>> All right, all right, keep quiet.

>> Here they come.

(soft music) >> George: Hello, everybody.

Look, we found some food.

No chance of us starving now.

>> What is that?

>> Mountain grass.

It's good too, here, have some.

I've read of people lasting 30 days on this stuff.

Listen, my brother and I have worked out a plan.

If we use our heads, we should be able to keep alive for weeks until he gets back.

>> Gets back?

>> Where's he going?

>> Well, he doesn't know, but he's starting out right away in the direction of India.

Sooner or later, he's bound to run into someone.

A tribe or something.

>> Yeah?

>> Here's the idea.

We found a cave over that small hill.

As soon as we bury the pilot, we're moving in.

We can have a fire there.

I shouldn't be surprised to see Bob back within a week.

>> You haven't got a Chinaman's chance of getting out of this country alive and you know it.

>> Cave, eh?

Where?

>> Over by that hill.

>> Hey, look!

Look, Bob!

(soft music) >> Where are they?

Do you see them?

>> Yes.

>> Do you think they're cannibals?

(soft music) (speaking in foreign language) >> I am from a nearby lamasery.

My name is Chang.

>> He's speaking English.

>> English.

>> And mine's Conway.

>> Chang: How do you do?

>> You have no idea, sir, how unexpected and very welcome you are.

My friends and I and a lady in the plane left Baskul the night before last for Shanghai.

Suddenly found ourselves traveling in the opposite direction.

>> At the mercy of a mad pilot.

>> Robert: We'd be eternally grateful if you could-- >> Where is your mad pilot?

>> Robert: Must've had a heart attack, or perhaps the fumes.

When the plane landed, he was dead.

>> We were just going to bury him when you came along.

>> Pardon me.

(speaking in foreign language) >> So if you would be good enough to direct us to your lamasery-- >> I should consider it an honor to accompany you and your friends.

(speaking in foreign language) You will need suitable clothes for the journey.

It is not particularly far, but quite difficult.

>> Thank you.

(dramatic music) (people chatting) (soft music) >> Welcome to Shangri-La.

You see, we are sheltered by mountains on every side.

A strange phenomena for which we are very grateful.

(soft music) >> It's magical.

(soft music) (laughs) (soft music) (hisses) >> Mr. Bernard, I do not like this place.

I definitely do not like this place.

>> Will you quit squawking?

>> Look at me, look what they gave me to wear.

>> You never looked better in your life.

Soon as our clothes are clean, they're gonna give them back to us, Lovey.

Something tells me this means food.

Come on.

Come on, food.

>> Well, I just feel as though as I'm being made ready for the executioner.

>> Yeah?

Well if this be execution, lead me to it.

>> That's what they do with cattle just before the slaughter.

Fatten them.

>> Bernard: (chuckles) You're a scream, Lovey.

>> Alexander: Please, don't call me Lovey.

>> Well, that was refreshing.

Oh, the food looks good.

>> Some layout they got here.

Did you get a load of the rooms?

You couldn't do better at the Ritz.

>> All the conveniences for the condemned, if you ask me.

>> Don't mind Lovey, he's got the misery.

>> Mr. Conway, I don't like this place.

It's too mysterious.

>> Robert: Well, it's better than freezing to death down below, isn't it?

>> I'll say.

>> Good evening, good evening, my friends.

Oh no, no, no, no, no, please, sit down.

I hope you found everything satisfactory.

>> Swell.

>> Excellent.

>> You shouldn't have waited for me.

>> Well, where's the girl, Miss Stone?

>> She's remaining in her room.

She isn't feeling very well.

Now, please go on without me, I eat very little.

>> Well.

Certainly nothing wrong with that meal.

>> Chang: (chuckles) Thank you.

>> And the wine, excellent.

>> I'm glad you like it.

It's made right here in the valley.

>> Well now the dinner is over, if you'll excuse us, we're very anxious to discuss ways and means of getting back home.

>> The first thing we want to do is cable the foreign office.

All of England's waiting to hear about my brother.

There's a cruiser at Shanghai ready to take him back.

>> Really?

Well, as regards cabling, I'm afraid I can't help.

Unfortunately, we have no wireless here.

As a matter of fact, we have no means of communication with the outside world.

>> Not even a radio?

>> Chang: It's always been a source of deep regret, but the mountains surrounding us have made reception almost impossible.

>> Well then we'd better make arrangements to get some porters immediately.

Some means to get us back to civilization.

>> Are you so certain you are away from it?

>> Alexander: As far away as I ever want to be.

>> Chang: Oh dear.

>> Well, of course, the porters will be very well paid.

That is, within reason.

>> Chang: I'm afraid that wouldn't help.

You see, we have no porters here.

>> No porters here?

>> No.

>> What about those men we met this morning?

>> Oh, those are our own people.

They never venture beyond the point where you were met this morning.

It is much too hazardous.

>> Well, how do you account for all this?

Who brought it in?

>> Oh yes.

Yes, there is a tribe of porters some 500 miles from here.

That is our only contact with the outside world.

Every now and again, depending upon favorable weather, of course, they make the journey.

>> Well, how can we get in touch with them?

>> Well, in that respect, you are exceedingly fortunate.

We are expecting a shipment from them almost anytime now.

>> Just what do you mean by almost anytime now?

>> Well, we've been expecting this particular shipment for the past two years.

>> Two years?

>> Yes.

>> Well.

>> But I assure you, gentlemen, if there is a prolonged delay, Shangri-La will endeavor to make your stay as pleasant as possible.

And now, if you'll excuse me, it is getting late.

I do hope you all sleep well.

Goodnight.

>> Goodnight.

>> Goodnight, Mr. Conway.

>> Goodnight, sir.

>> That's what I mean, mysterious.

Mr. Conway, I don't like that man.

He's too vague.

>> George: We didn't get much information out of him, did we, Bob?

>> Well, it seems we should be grateful.

We were in a bad mess this morning.

And after all, this is quite pleasant.

Why not make ourselves comfortable until the porters do arrive?

>> That's what I say.

What do you say a round of bridge?

I saw some cards in the other room.

>> Oh not me, thanks, no, I'm too weary.

>> How about you, Lovey?

Come on.

Let's you and I play a game of honeymoon bridge.

>> Oh, I'm thinking.

>> Thinking?

What about some double solitaire?

>> As a matter of fact, I'm very good at double solitaire.

>> No kidding.

>> Yes.

>> Then I'm your man.

Come on, toots.

(soft music) >> Robert: George, cigarette?

>> Thanks.

Suppose all this comes under the heading of adventure.

>> Well, had plenty of it the last few days.

>> It's far from over, from what I can see.

This place gives me the creeps.

Hidden away like this, no contact with civilization.

Bob, you don't seem concerned at all.

>> Oh, I'm feeling far too peaceful to be concerned about anything.

I think I'm going to like it here.

>> Talk as though you're intending to stay.

>> Something happened to me when we arrived here, George, that, well... Did you ever go to a totally strange place and feel certain you've been there before?

>> What are you talking about?

>> I don't know.

>> You're a strange bird.

No wonder Gainsford calls you the man who always wanted to see what was on the other side of the hill.

>> Don't you ever want to see what's on the other side of the hill?

>> Well, what could it be except just another hill?

Anyway, I'm not curious.

Bob, at the moment, it seems to be we should be concerned about getting home.

I'd give anything to be in London right now.

>> Of course you would.

If ever we get out of this place, the thing for you to do is to take that job with Helen's father.

>> What do you mean, if we should get out?

>> Did I say if?

>> That's what you said.

>> Well I mean that-- >> What's on your mind, Bob?

You talk as though we're going to have trouble getting out of here.

>> George, I've been putting things together.

Do you notice the resemblance between those natives and the pilot?

And why did those clothes materialize so conveniently when they met us at the plane?

Chang himself just said that they never venture beyond that point.

What brought them there?

Unless it was to meet us.

>> Chang's first question was about the pilot.

>> Uh-huh.

>> There must be some connection between the plane and this place.

They must've deliberately brought us here.

Why, Bob?

What reason could they have for doing a thing like that?

>> That's what's on the other side of the hill.

(soft music) >> There's 3000 feet practically straight down to the floor of the valley.

The Valley of the Blue Moon, as we call it.

There are over 2000 people in the valley besides those here in Shangri-La.

>> Who and what is Shangri-La, you?

>> (laughs) Goodness, no.

>> So there are others.

>> Oh yes.

>> Who, for instance?

>> In time, you will meet them all.

>> For a man who talks a great deal, it's amazing how unenlightening you can be.

>> There are some things, my dear Conway, I deeply regret I may not discuss.

>> Do you know that's the fourth time you've said that today?

You should have a record made of it.

>> Shall we go inside?

I should sure like to show you some of our rare treasures.

(soft music) >> Good afternoon.

>> Excuse me, I-- >> Please.

Don't go.

Tea will be served any moment.

Won't you come in?

My name is Maria.

Won't you sit down?

(soft music) >> By the way, what religion do you follow here?

>> To put it simply, I shall say that our general belief is in moderation.

We preach the virtue of avoiding excesses of every kind.

Even including excessive itself.

>> That's intelligent.

>> We find in the valley it makes for greater happiness among the natives.

We rule with moderate strictness, and in return, we are satisfied with moderate obedience.

As a result, our people are moderately honest, moderately chaste, and somewhat more than moderately happy.

>> How about law and order?

You have no soldiers or police?

>> (chuckles) Oh good heavens, no.

>> How do you deal with incorrigibles?

Criminals?

>> Why, we have no crime here.

What makes a criminal?

Lack, usually.

Avariciousness, envy.

The desire to possess something owned by another.

There can be no crime where there is a sufficiency of everything.

>> You have no disputes over women?

>> Only very rarely.

You see, it would not be considered good manners to take a woman that another man wanted.

>> Suppose somebody wanted her so badly that he didn't give a hang if it was good manners or not.

>> Well, in that event, it would be good manners on the part of the other man to let him have her.

>> (laughs) Well, very convenient.

I think I'd like that.

>> You would be advised, my dear Conway.

A little courtesy all around helps to smooth out the most complicated problems.

(soft music) (laughing) (soft music) Sometime in the future, you will have the pleasure of meeting her.

(soft music) >> Well, some man had better get ready to be very courteous to me.

(soft music) Mr. Chang, all these things.

Books, instruments, sculpture.

Do you mean to say they were all brought in over those mountains by porters?

>> They were.

>> Well that must've taken-- >> Centuries.

>> Centuries.

Where did you get the money to pay for all these treasures?

>> Well, of course, we have no money as you know it.

We do not buy or sell or seek personal fortunes because, well, because there is no uncertain future here for which to accumulate.

(tapping) >> That would suit me perfectly, I'm always broke.

How did you pay for them?

>> Our valley is very rich in a metal called gold, which fortunately for us, is valued very highly in the outside world.

So we merely-- >> Buy and sell.

>> Buy and sell, no.

No, pardon me, exchange.

>> Oh, I see.

Gold for ideas.

You know, Mr. Chang, there's something so simple and naive about all this, that I suspect there's been a shrewd guiding intelligence somewhere.

Whose idea was it?

How did it all start?

>> That, my dear Conway, is the story of a remarkable man.

>> Who?

>> A Belgian priest by the name of Father Perro.

The first here appeared to find this place.

And a very great man indeed.

He is responsible for everything you see here.

He built Shangri-La, taught the natives, and began our collection of art.

In fact, Shangri-La is Father Perro.

>> When was all this?

>> Oh, let me see.

Way back in 1713, I think it was.

That Father Perro stumbled into the valley, half frozen to death.

(chuckles) It was typical of the man that, one leg being frozen, and of course, there being no doctors here, he amputated the leg himself.

>> He amputated his own leg?

>> Yes.

Oddly enough, later, when he had learned to understand the language, the natives told him he could've saved his leg.

It would've healed without amputation.

>> Well, they didn't actually mean that.

>> Oh yes, yes, yes.

They were very sincere about it too.

You see, a perfect body in perfect health was the rule here.

They'd never known anything different.

And so what was true for them, they thought would naturally be true for anyone else to be here.

>> Well, is it?

>> Rather astonishingly so, yes.

Particularly in the case of Father Perro himself.

Do you know, when he and the natives were finished building Shangri-La, he was 108 years old and still very active, in spite of only having one leg.

>> 108 and still active?

>> You are startled.

>> Oh no, no, just a little bowled over, that's all.

>> Forgive me.

I should have told you it is quite common here to live to a very ripe old age.

Climate, diet, mountain water, you might say.

But we like to believe it is the absence of struggle in the way we live.

In your countries, on the other hand, how often do you hear the expression, he worried himself to death, or, this thing or that killed him?

>> Oh, very often.

>> And very true.

Your lives are therefore, as a rule, shorter.

Not so much by a natural death as by indirect suicide.

>> Well, that's all very fine if it works out.

Little amazing, of course.

>> Why, Mr. Conway, you surprise me.

>> I surprise you, now that's new.

>> (laughs) No, I mean your amazement.

I could've understood it in any of your companions, but you, who have dreamed and written so much about better worlds.

Or is it that you fail to recognize one of your own dreams when you see it?

>> Mr. Chang, if you don't mind, I think I'll go on being amazed.

In moderation, of course.

>> Then everything's quite all right.

(laughing) >> Oh hey, honey.

Hey, it's terrific, terrific.

I just saw something that'll make your hair stand on end.

You see those hills over there?

Gold, gold, popping right out of them.

Tons of it.

Now look, you keep this under your hat because if those other monkeys hear about it, they'll clear themselves in.

But if I can mine that stuff, I'll throw a bombshell into Wall Street.

Now look, I've got a plan, and if I... (coughing) Oh say, honey.

You ain't feeling so well, are you?

Look.

Don't pay too much attention to what those doctors tell you.

I've seen an awful lot of people fooling.

And I've got a hunch that this place is gonna be good for you, honest I have.

Come on now, come on.

You be a good kid and snap out of it, and I'll cut you in on the gold deal.

Look, I'm going up and make a deal with Chang right now.

(yelps) >> Oh my.

(laughs) >> Good morning.

>> Morning, Mr. Conway.

>> Oh, you speak English, do you?

>> Yes, sir.

>> Would you like to take a ride, Mr. Conway?

>> No thanks, not just now.

(soft playful music) I think I'll take that ride.

(soft playful music) (squirrel squeaking) (soft playful music) >> Fossils, fossils, why?

What for?

Running around, digging up a lot of old bones.

You didn't dig yourself out of one of those holes, by any chance, did you?

>> No.

(laughs) (humming) >> You seem gay, did you find out anything?

>> Well, I heard that if you want a man's wife, she's yours if he's got any manners.

>> George: Well, nothing about the porters yet?

>> Robert: Porters?

>> Well good heavens, Bob, we've been here two weeks and we haven't found out a thing.

>> Well, we haven't been murdered in our beds yet, George, have we?

>> I'm afraid the porters are just a myth.

I guess we never will know why we're here or how long we're going to be held prisoners.

(shushing) >> Hey, hurry up, you slowpokes, I'm starved.

>> Please, please, do not wait for me.

I eat so very little.

(laughs) >> Good evening.

>> Good evening.

Well, I'm certainly glad to see us all finally organized.

Okay handsome, dish it out and make it snappy.

Hey, what's happened to you?

>> Well nothing, why?

>> Well, you look beautiful.

>> That's unkind, doesn't Miss Stone always look beautiful?

>> I got it, it's your makeup, you got none on.

And say, honey, you look a million percent better.

Wholesome kind and clean.

You take a tip from me and don't you ever put that stuff on your face again.

Why, it's like hiding behind a mask.

>> (laughs) And who are you to talk about a mask?

What do you mean?

You've been wearing a mask ever since we've met you.

>> Have I?

>> Very strange, you know, you've never told us anything about yourself.

Who are you anyway?

Why don't you take your mask off for once?

>> Yes, unbosom yourself, Mr. Hyde.

>> All right, I will.

I'll let my hair down.

Why not?

Can't make any real difference now.

Hey, Lovey.

Were you ever chased by the police?

>> Certainly not.

>> Believe me, it's no fun.

When you fellas picked me up at Baskul, they'd been on my tail for a year.

>> The police?

>> Uh-huh.

Did you ever hear of Chalmers Bryant?

>> Chalmers Bryant.

>> Bryant's Utilities.

That's me.

(dish clanging) >> I knew it.

I knew I had a reason for hating you.

Sir, you're a thief.

>> He never stole anything from you, did he?

>> I have 500 shares of Bryant's Utilities that I bought with money that I'd saved for 20 years teaching school, and now, I couldn't sell it for postage stamps.

>> That's too bad, I got a half million shares.

My whole foundation.

And now look at me.

>> Colossal nerve you are sitting there talking about it so calmly.

You, the swindler of thousands of people.

>> You know, that's what makes the whole thing so funny.

A guy like me.

Starts out in life as a plumber.

An ordinary, everyday, slew footed plumber.

And by the use of a little brains, mind you, he builds up a gigantic institution.

Employs thousands of people.

Becomes a great civic leader.

And then the crash comes.

And overnight, he's the biggest crook the country ever had.

>> You are a thief, sir, and a swindler.

And I for one will be only too glad to turn you over to the police when we get back.

>> What do you mean, when we get back?

What makes you think we're ever going to get back?

You may not know, but you're all prisoners here.

We've been literally kidnapped and brought here and nobody knows why.

Well, I'm not content to be a prisoner.

I'm going to find out when we're gonna get out of this place.

I'll make that Chinese talk, if it's the last thing I do.

>> George!

>> Chang!

Chang!

Where is he?

Where's Chang?

Where is he?

Where's Chang or I'll blow your brains out.

>> George, what do you think you're doing?

>> Let me go.

>> George, come here.

>> Chang!

Chang!

Chang, come here, you.

Come here!

(gunshots blasting) >> George, you idiot.

(soft music) >> Had to sock him, huh?

(soft music) >> You all right?

Sorry, George.

>> Mr. Conway, is it true about us being kidnapped?

Well I say, is it true about us being kidnapped?

>> Mr. Chang.

Do you mind stepping in here for a moment?

(soft ominous music) Won't you sit down?

Mr. Chang, you have been very kind to us and we appreciate it.

But for some reason, we are being held prisoners here and we want to know why.

Personally, I don't mind at all.

I'm enjoying every minute of it.

But my brother is not of the same opinion, nor are the others.

It's time we were told what it's all about.

We want to know why we were kidnapped, why we're being kept here, but most important of all, do we get the porters and when.

Until we get this information, my dear Mr. Chang, I am very much afraid we cannot permit you to leave this room.

>> You know, it's very, very strange.

But when you saw me in the corridor, I was actually on my way to you.

I bring the most amazing news.

The High Lama wishes to see you, Mr. Conway.

>> The High Lama, who in blazes is he?

>> I thought you ran this joint.

>> Mr. Chang, high lamas or low lamas, do we get the porters?

>> The High Lama is the only one from whom any information can come.

>> Don't believe him, Bob, he's just trying to get out.

>> Yes, sounds like a stall to me.

>> You better make him talk.

>> One moment.

You say that the High Lama is the only one that can give us any information?

>> The only one.

>> And he can arrange for the porters to take us back?

>> The High Lama arranges everything, Mr. Conway.

>> Well then he's the man I want to see.

Will you come along?

Better wait here 'til I get back.

We'll soon know where we stand.

(soft music) >> Good evening, Mr. Conway.

Please, come in.

(soft music) Sit here near me.

I'm an old man and can do no one any harm.

>> Are you the High Lama?

>> Yes.

I trust you've been comfortable at Shangri-La since your arrival.

>> Personally, I've enjoyed your community very much.

But my friends do not care for this mystery.

They are determined to leave as soon as...

It's astonishing and incredible but-- >> What is it, my son?

>> You're the man.

Chang told me, you're the first who... 200 years ago.

You're still alive, Father Perro.

>> Sit down, my son.

(soft music) You may not know it, but I've been an admirer of yours for a great many years.

Oh, not of Conway, the empire builder and public hero.

I wanted to meet the Conway who when spoke, said, there are moments in every man's life when he glimpses the eternal.

That Conway seemed to belong here.

In fact, it was suggested that someone be sent to bring him here.

>> That I be brought here?

Who had that brilliant idea?

>> Sondra Buisay.

>> Oh, the girl at the piano?

>> Yes.

She has read your books and has a profound admiration for you.

As have we all.

>> Of course, I've suspected that our being here was no accident.

Furthermore, I have a feeling that we're never supposed to leave.

But that, for the moment, doesn't concern me greatly.

I'll meet that when it comes.

What particularly interests me at present is why was I brought here?

What possible use can I be to an already thriving community?

>> We need men like you here to be sure that our community will continue to thrive.

In return for which Shangri-La has much to give you.

You are still, by the world's standards, a youngish man.

Yet in the normal cause of existence, you can expect 20 or 30 years of gradually diminishing activity.

Here, however, in Shangri-La, by our standards, your life has just begun.

And may go on and on.

>> Hmm.

Of course, to be candid, Father, a prolonged future doesn't excite me.

It would have to have a point.

I've sometimes doubted whether life itself has any.

If that is so, then long life must be even more pointless.

No, I'd need a much more definite reason for going on and on.

>> We have reason.

It is the entire meaning and purpose of Shangri-La.

It came to me in a vision.

Long, long ago.

I saw all the nations strengthening.

Not in wisdom, but in the bulk of passions and the will to destroy.

I saw the machine power multiplying until a single weaponed man might match a whole army.

I foresaw a time when man, exulting in the technique of murder, would rage so hotly over the world that every book, every treasure, would be doomed to destruction.

This vision was so big and so moving that I determined to gather together all things of beauty and of culture that I could, and preserve them here, against the doom toward which the world is rushing.

Look at the world today.

Is there anything more pitiful?

What madness there is.

What blindness, what unintelligent leadership.

A scurrying mass of bewildered humanity, crashing headlong against each other.

A peril by an orgy of greed and brutality.

A time must come, my friend, when this orgy will spend itself.

When brutality and the lust for power must perish by its own sword.

Against that time, is why I avoided death and am here.

And why you were brought here.

For when that day comes, the world must begin to look for a new life.

And it is our hope that they may find it here.

For here, we shall be with their books and their music and a way of life based on one simple rule.

Be kind.

When that day comes, it is our hope that the brotherly love of Shangri-La will spread throughout the world.

Yes, my son.

When the strong have devoured each other, the Christian ethic may at last be fulfilled, and the meek shall inherit the earth.

>> I understand you, Father.

(soft music) >> High Lama: You must come again, my son.

Goodnight.

(soft music) >> Well?

Well, what'd you find out?

>> Bernard: We thought you were never coming back.

>> When do we leave?

>> What about the porters?

>> Porters.

>> George: Didn't you find anything about the porters?

>> Why, I'm sorry, but-- >> What were you doing all this time?

>> George: For heaven's sake, Bob, what's the matter with you?

You went out there-- >> George, George, do you mind?

I'm sorry but I can't talk about it tonight.

(soft music) Hello.

(soft playful music) (speaking in foreign language) (soft playful music) Good morning.

♪ Lay me down now and rest ♪ ♪ May thy slumber be blessed ♪ ♪ Lullaby and goodnight ♪ ♪ Thy mother delight ♪ ♪ Bright angels around ♪ ♪ My darling shall send ♪ ♪ They will guard thee from harm ♪ >> Do you mind?

♪ Thy shall wake in my arms ♪ ♪ They will guard thee from harm ♪ ♪ Thy shall wake in my arms ♪ (clapping) >> This is Mr. Conway, children.

>> Children: Good morning, Mr. Conway.

>> How do you do?

>> Children: Very well, thank you.

(chuckles) ♪ Lullaby and goodnight ♪ ♪ Thy mother's delight ♪ ♪ Bright angels around ♪ ♪ My darling shall send ♪ ♪ They will guard thee from harm ♪ ♪ Thou shall wake in my arms ♪ ♪ They will guard thee from harm ♪ ♪ Thou shall wake in my arms ♪ (laughing) >> All right, children, our teacher's going to be very busy this afternoon.

So school's dismissed, come on.

(cheering) (playful music) (cheering and laughing) Oh, please.

I hope you're not gonna run away this time.

>> My name's Sondra.

>> I hope you'll forgive me for... (soft music) You know, each time I see you, I hear that music.

What is it?

>> Oh, you mean my pigeons.

(soft music) It's these little flutes I attach to their tails, see?

Come along with me and I'll show you how I put them on.

(soft music) You see, this is how we tie them on.

And by varying the size of the flutes, I can get any notes I wish.

The wind does the rest.

Here's a little fellow that's lost his.

>> Was this your idea?

>> Yes.

Here, hold this pigeon.

>> You suggested my being brought here.

Didn't you?

>> Mm-hmm.

>> What gave you the idea I'd fit in?

>> That was easy.

I'd read your books.

>> Oh, you'd read my books.

You do more things.

What have my books got to do with it?

>> I saw a man whose life was empty.

>> A man whose life was empty.

>> Oh, I know, he's full of this and full of that.

But you were accomplishing nothing.

You were going nowhere and you knew it.

As a matter of fact, all I saw was a little boy, whistling in the dark.

>> Little boy whistling in the dark.

Do you realize that there was a British cruiser waiting at Shanghai, smoke pouring out of its funnels, tugging at its moorings, waiting to take Mr. Conway back to London?

Do you know that at this minute, there are headlines shaking all over the world the news that Conway's missing?

Does that look like a man whose life was empty?

>> Yes.

>> You're absolutely right.

And I had to come all the way to a pigeon house in Shangri-La to find the only other person in the world who knew it.

May I congratulate you?

(laughs) >> I really only brought you here to show you my pigeons.

>> Don't worry about the pigeons.

From now on, you can put flutes on my tail and bells on my feet.

There's so many questions I'd like to ask you, I hardly know where to begin.

>> I'll help you.

To begin with, you'd like to know what I'm doing here.

Well, I was born here.

>> Thank you.

>> Well, I was almost born here.

Took place in that wild country beyond the pass.

My father and mother were in a part of explorers who got lost and wandered around for a year.

When Chang found us, only father and I were alive.

But he was too weak to climb the pass.

He died on the way.

I was brought up by Father Perro himself.

>> Father Perro, I envy you.

I talked to him last night.

>> Yes, I know.

>> Father Perro.

Of course, I can't quite get used to this age thing.

>> I'm 30.

(laughing) >> Oh, you're gonna make life very simple.

It's inconceivable.

>> What?

>> All of it.

Father Perro and his magnificent history.

This place, hidden away from the rest of the world.

With its glorious concept.

(chuckles) And now you come along and confuse me entirely.

>> (laughs) I'm sorry.

I thought I was to be the light.

But why do I confuse you?

Am I so strange?

>> On the contrary, you're not strange.

And that in itself is confusing.

I had the same idea about Shangri-La.

A sense that I've been here before, that I belonged here.

>> I'm so glad.

>> I can't quite explain it but everything is somehow familiar.

The very air I breathe.

The lamasery.

With its feet rooted in the good earth of this fertile valley.

While its head explores the eternal.

All the beautiful things I see, these cherry blossoms, you, all somehow familiar.

(chuckles) I've been kidnapped and brought here against my will.

A crime, a great crime.

Yet I accept it amiably.

The same warm amiability one tolerates only from a very dear and close friend.

Why?

Will you tell me why?

>> Perhaps because you've always been a part of Shangri-La without knowing it.

>> I wonder.

>> I'm sure of it.

Just as I'm sure there's a wish for Shangri-La in everyone's heart.

I've never seen the outside world, but I understand there are millions and millions of people who are supposed to be mean and greedy.

But I just know that secretly, they're all hoping to find a garden spot where there is peace, security.

There's beauty and comfort.

Where they wouldn't have to be mean and greedy.

Oh, I just wish the whole world might come to this valley.

>> Then it wouldn't be a garden spot for long.

(laughs) ♪ Here we go gathering nuts in May ♪ ♪ Nuts in May, nuts in May ♪ ♪ Here we go gathering nuts in May ♪ ♪ Early on Tuesday morning ♪ ♪ Here we go ♪ ♪ Something, something, here we go ♪ ♪ La la la la ♪ ♪ Shangri-La, Shangri-La ♪ ♪ Dum dum dum dah dah dah dah ♪ ♪ Here you are in Shangri-La ♪ ♪ Here we go gathering nuts in May ♪ ♪ Nuts in May, nuts in May ♪ ♪ Gathering nuts in May ♪ ♪ Early on Tuesday morning ♪ (soft playful music) >> Maria: George.

(soft music) >> Hello, Maria.

(soft music) >> You promised to come for tea yesterday.

I waited for so long.

>> George: Sorry.

Haven't got any cigarettes left.

>> I'll make some for you.

You will come today.

>> George: Perhaps.

>> Oh please say you will.

The day is so very long and lonely without you.

Please.

>> George: All right, I'll be there.

>> Thank you.

>> You'll tell me some of the things I want to know, won't you?

You'll tell me who runs this place and why we were kidnapped and what they're going to do with us?

Chang's been lying about those porters, hasn't he?

(soft music) (bells chime) >> Beautiful.

I'm waiting for the bump.

>> Bump?

>> When the plane lands at Shanghai and wakes us all up.

Ouch!

>> You see, it's not a dream.

>> You know, I sometimes think that the other is the dream.

The outside world.

Have you never wanted to go there?

>> Goodness, no.

From what you tell me about it, it doesn't sound very attractive.

>> Well, it's not so bad, really.

Some phases of it are sordid, of course.

That's only to be expected.

>> Why?

>> Oh, usual reasons.

World full of people, struggling for existence.

>> Struggling?

Why?

>> Well, everybody naturally wants to make a place for himself.

Accumulate a nest egg and so on.

>> Why?

>> You know, if you keep on asking that, we're not gonna get anywhere.

And don't ask me why.

>> Well, I was just going to.

>> It's the most annoying word in the English language.

Did you ever hear a child torture his parent with it?

Mother's little darling mustn't stuff her fingers in the salad bowl.

Why?

Because it isn't ladylike to do that.

Why?

Because that's what forks are made for, darling.

>> Why, Mother?

>> Because Mother read it in a book somewhere, and if Mother's little darling doesn't take her fingers out of the salad bowl this instant, Mother's going to wring her little neck.

(laughing) >> Would you like to wring my little neck?

>> I'd love it.

>> Why?

(soft music) (laughs) Sorry.

I'm sorry, sorry.

(laughs) (soft music) I thought about it for years.

I knew you'd come.

And I knew when you did, you'd never leave.

Am I forgiven for sending for you?

>> Forgiven.

You know, when we were on that plane, I was fascinated by the way its shadow followed this.

That silly shadow, racing along over mountains and valleys, covering 10 times the distance of the plane.

And yet, always there to greet us with outstretched arms when we landed.

And I'd been thinking that somehow, you're that plane.

And I'm that silly shadow.

And that all my life, I've been rushing up and down hills, leaping rivers, crashing over obstacles, never dreaming that one day, that beautiful thing in flight would land on this earth and into my arms.

(soft music) >> Amazing, Mr. Chang, this place is amazing.

And that marble quarry in the valley is simply magnificent.

Oh, I've looked around, I've seen everything.

Your woodworkers and your cloth weavers are all so very, very happy.

>> Yes.

>> You may not know it, Mr. Chang, but right here, you have utopia.

>> You're very kind, Mr. Lovett.

>> Well, I don't mean in that sense.

I only give credit where credit is due.

>> Sure.

>> Yes.

Mr. Chang.

I'm very anxious to have you realize that I never for a moment believed that ridiculous kidnapping story.

>> Oh, I'm so glad.

>> Simply preposterous.

Do you know what I did last night?

Last night, Mr. Chang, I held a sort of a self-inventory.

I said to myself last night, Mr. Chang, I said, Lovey... Mr. Lovett... Mr. Lovett, I said, you are an ungrateful fool.

>> Oh no.

>> Ungrateful fool.

Those are my very words to myself last night.

Here are these people in Shangri-La doing everything in their power to make your stay comfortable and happy, and I haven't done one single thing to show my appreciation.

>> Well now, what would you like to do?

>> Well, Mr. Chang, I thought with your permission, of course, and while I'm waiting for these porters, I would like to organize classes for those children in the valley and teach them something practical or something useful.

Geology.

>> Splendid.

>> Isn't it, isn't it.

You know, I was a professor for 20 years.

And a very good one.

>> I'm sure you were.

When would you like to start?

>> Oh, immediately.

>> Then it's done.

>> Oh, thank you, thank you.

>> You see?

You get the idea?

From this reservoir here, I can pipe the whole works.

Oh, I'm going to get a great kick out of this.

Of course, it's just to keep my hand in.

But with the equipment we have here, I can put a plumbing system in the whole village down there.

Rig it up in no time.

You realize that those poor people are still going to the well for water?

>> (chuckles) It's unbelievable.

>> Think of it, in times like these.

>> What about that gold here?

>> Huh?

>> Gold.

You know-- >> Oh, oh, that.

Well, that can wait.

Nobody's gonna run off with it.

Say, I've got to get busy.

I want to show this whole layout to Chang.

So long, don't you take any wooden nickels.

>> All right.

(whistling) George.

George!

George, you're behaving like a child.

You haven't opened your mouth for two weeks.

>> I don't see that there's anything to say.

>> I'm afraid that does it.

>> I'm afraid it does.

>> Shall we have another?

>> No thanks, not tonight, if you don't mind.

>> Chang: Oh, come in, my dear.

>> Sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt.

I thought Mr. Conway's brother was here.

Excuse me.

>> Charming, isn't she?

>> Yes, charming.

>> Your brother seems quite fascinated by her.

>> Why not, she's an attractive young woman.

>> Young?

She arrived here in 1888.

She was 20 at the time.

She was on her way to join her betrothed when her carriers lost their way in the mountain.

The whole party would have perished but for meeting with some of our people.

>> That's amazing.

Still doesn't look over 20.

>> No.

>> When is she likely to grow old in appearance?

>> Oh, not for years.

Shangri-La will keep her youthful indefinitely.

>> Suppose she should leave.

>> Leave Shangri-La?

(laughs) That's not likely, you couldn't drive her out.

>> No, I mean about her appearance.

If she should leave the valley, what would happen?

>> Oh.

She'd quickly revert in appearance to her actual age.

(chuckles) >> That's weird.

Chang, how old are you?

>> Age is a limit we impose upon ourselves.

You know, each time you Westerners celebrate your birthday, you build another fence around your minds.

>> Oh, there you are.

You're just the man I'm looking for.

Fine trick, smart, aren't you?

What a pack of lies you told us about those porters.

Of course, the minute they arrive, we can make arrangements to leave, if they take us.

But you know very well you'd tell them not to.

>> My dear boy-- >> You've been lying to us ever since we got here.

Apparently it's worked for some people.

Perhaps it's because they lack the courage to do anything about it.

But not me, Chang.

You're up against the wrong man.

I'll get out of here if I have to blow this fantastic place into the valley.

I'll get out, porters or no porters!

>> You must prevail upon him not to attempt the journey.

He could never get through that country alive.

>> I can't let him go alone, it's suicide.

>> Yes, of course, your brother is a problem.

It was to be expected.

>> I knew you'd understand.

That's why I came to you for help.

>> You must not look to me for help.

Your brother is no longer my problem.

He is now your problem, Conway.

>> Mine?

>> Because, my son, I am placing in your hands the future and destiny of Shangri-La.

For I am going to die.

I knew my work was done when I first set eyes upon you.

I waited for you, my son, for a long time.

I've sat in this room and seen the faces of newcomers.

I've looked into their eyes and heard their voices.

Always in hope that I might find you.

My friend, it is not an arduous task that I bequeath.

For our order knows only silken bonds.

To be gentle and patient.

To care for the riches of the mind.

To preside in wisdom while the storm rages without.

>> Do you think this will come in my time?

>> You, my son, will live through the storm.

You will preserve the fragrance of our history and add to it a touch of your own mind.

Beyond that, my vision weakens.

But I see the greatest things.

A new world starting in the ruins.

Starting clumsily, but in hopefulness.

Seeking its lost and legendary treasures.

And they will all be here, my son.

Hidden behind the bumbles.

In the Valley of the Blue Moon.

Preserved as by a miracle.

(soft music) >> Look, honey.

We run the pipes through here and we connect with the main water line here.

>> Pipes, where are you gonna get pipes?

>> Oh, that's a cinch.

I'll show them how to cast pipes out of clay.

>> Oh, there you are.

Well, better get your things together, we're leaving.

>> Leaving?

>> Yes, I've just been talking to the porters.

They're going to take us back.

We got clothing, food, everything.

Come on.

>> Yeah?

Well, when are you gonna start?

>> Well, right this very minute.

The porters are waiting for us in the plateau.

And that Chinaman thought he could stop me.

Come along.

>> I think I'll stick around.

I'll leave with the porters on the next trip.

>> You mean you don't want to go?

>> Well, I'm... >> George: Oh I see, you're afraid of going to jail, huh?

>> Well, no, but you see, I got this plumbing business.

>> All right, if you insist on being an idiot, I'm not gonna waste time coaxing you.

How about you?

>> No, you don't want to go yet, honey.

She'll stick around too, that right?

>> If you want me to.

>> Sure, sure, don't you worry.

I'll take care of you.

>> All right, suit yourself.

But just remember you had your chance.

How about you, do you want to go?

>> Go?

Where?

>> Home, away from here.

I've got porters to take us back.

>> Oh my dear boy, I'm sorry, that's impossible.

Why, I have my classes all started.

>> I don't care what you've got started.

Do you want to go?

>> Oh well I, no, I think I'd better wait.

Yes, yes, I will, I'll wait.

>> You'll wait or you'll rot.

>> Yes.

Barney?

>> Lovey!

>> Hello, Gloria.

>> Hello.

>> Barney, I just finished translating one of the most interesting old habits you can imagine.

Told me all about the origin of the phonic symbols in signing-- >> That's swell, Lovey.

I want to show you something.

Look, look.

>> What?

Oh my, isn't that pretty, what is it?

>> Plumbing, everything modern.

I'm gonna run pipes all through the village.

(bells chime) (soft inspirational music) >> George: Bob.

>> Hello, George.

>> Well, you can stop worrying about everything now, Bob.

I've made arrangements to leave.

If you let me close that window, I can talk to you.

The noise is driving me crazy.

I said, we're getting out of here, back to civilization.

I've made a deal with the porters.

They've brought in a load of books or something.

They're leaving tomorrow at dawn.

They're waiting for us five miles outside the valley.

Come on, get your things together.

Where's your topcoat?

>> You can't leave, George.

>> Why not?

What's going to stop me?

>> You mustn't, you've got to stay here now.

>> George: Stay here?

What's the matter with you, Bob?

You've been acting strangely ever since we came here.

I've never seen you like this.

Why can't we leave?

What's stopping us?

>> Something grand and beautiful, George.

Something I've been searching for all my life.

The answer to the confusion and bewilderment of a lifetime.

I've found it, George, and I can't leave it.

You mustn't either.

>> I don't know what you're talking about.

You're carrying around a secret that seems to be eating you up.

If you'll only tell me about it-- >> I will, George, I want to tell you.

I'll burst with it if I don't.

It's weird and fantastic and sometimes unbelievable but so beautiful.

Well, as you know, we've been kidnapped and brought here.

And that's the whole story, George.

He died as peacefully as the passing of a cloud's shadow.

His last words to me were, "I place in your hands, my son, "the future and destiny of Shangri-La".

Now you know why I can't leave.

>> Well, I...

I really don't know what to say.

Except that you must be completely mad.

>> You think I'm mad.

>> Well, what else can I think after a tale like that?

Good heavens, Bob, things like that don't happen today.

We're living in the 20th century.

>> You think it's all a nonsense, hmm?

>> I think you've been hypnotized by a lot of loose brain fanatics.

Well, I wouldn't believe it if I heard it in an English monastery.

Why should I swallow it here in Tibet?

How do you know the things they told you are true?

Did they show you any proof?

>> I don't need any proof.

>> I knew there was a reason why I hated this place.

I'd give half my life to fly over it with a load of bombs, just for what they've done to you.

All this talk about lamas being hundreds of years old.

How do you know?

Did you see their birth certificates?

I can't believe it, Bob.

A bunch of decrepit old men sit around and dream about reforming the world.

And you, Bob Conway, two feet on the ground Conway, want to join them.

It's horrible.

>> Is that all my story meant to you?

>> Well, what else could it mean to me?

It's obviously a lot of bunk.

>> Well, you'd better go, George.

This is no place for you.

>> It's no place for you, Bob.

Think of what's waiting for you.

Do you want to stay here 'til you're half dead?

'Til your mind starts corroding like the rest of them?

>> Oh please, George, I don't want to talk about it anymore.

>> You've got to talk about it.

What about me?

You said they stole that plane to bring you here.

I didn't want to come.

You owe me some responsibility.

>> I'm tired of owing you things.

You're free to go, go ahead.

>> It's that girl.

That girl's twisted and turned you out.

>> That's enough!

Nevermind the girl.

Well, why don't you go?

>> Look here, Bob.

Ever since I can remember, you've looked after me.

Now I think you're the one that needs looking after.

I'm your brother, Bob.

If there's something wrong with you, let me help you.

>> George.

>> Besides, I...

I don't feel like making that trip alone, Bob.

>> George, you couldn't possibly stay here, could you?

>> I'd go mad.

>> George, I may be wrong, I may be a maniac.

But I believe in this and I'm not going to lose it.

Come on, you know how much I want to help you.

But this is bigger.

Stronger, if you'd like, than brotherly love but...

I'm sorry, George, I'm staying.

>> Well, I... Can't think of anything more to say.

Goodbye, Bob.

>> George.

Are you sure of the porters?

About them taking care of you, I mean.

>> Oh yes, it's all set.

Maria made the arrangements.

>> Robert: Maria?

>> Yes, the little Russian girl.

>> What's she got to do with it?

>> Well, she's going with me.

>> George, you're crazy!

You can't take her away from here.

>> Why not?

>> Because you can't.

Do you know what'll happen if she leaves Shangri-La?

She is a fragile thing that can only live where fragile things are loved.

Take her out of this valley, and she'll fade away like an echo.

>> What do you mean, fade away like an echo?

>> She came here in 1888.

(laughs) >> Well, this would be funny if it weren't so pathetic.

Why, she isn't a day over 20.

>> Well, you're wrong, George.

>> I'm not wrong, she told me so.

Besides, she wouldn't have to tell me, I'd know anyway.

I found out a lot of things last night.

I'm not ashamed of it either.

It's probably one of the few decent things that ever happened in this hellish place.

So everyone is serenely happy in Shangri-La.

Nobody would ever think of leaving.

It's all just so much rot.

Why, she's pleaded with me ever since I came here to take her away from this awful place.

She's cried in my arms for hours for fear I'd leave her behind.

And what's more, she's made two trips to the plateau to bribe the porters for me.

>> I don't believe it, I don't believe a word of it.

>> All right, I'll prove it to you.

You believed everything they've told you without proof.

I'll prove my story.

Come in a minute.

Come in.

I've got some bad news for you, Maria.

My brother and I have decided we can't take you along.

>> Can't take me?

But you promised.

You promised to take me with you.

It's all your fault.

It was all arranged until he spoke to you.

Why can't you leave us alone?

>> You mean to tell me you want to leave Shangri-La?

>> I'll die if I have to stay here another minute.

I've waited a long time for this chance to go and you're not going to stop me now.

If I have to, I'll go alone.

'Twas I who bribed the porters.

If it weren't for me, you'd never get out.

>> I thought the porters had instructions from the High Lama not to take anyone.

>> The High Lama?

Who pays any attention to him?

The porters laugh at the High Lama.

All they want to know is how much gold you'll give them.

Well, I gave them more gold.

I've been stealing it for a year.

I'd do anything to get out this place.

To get away from that High Lama, the one who calls himself Father Perro.

Why, he's been insane for years.

>> No, Father Perro's dead.

>> He's dead?

That's fine.

You won't see me shedding any tears over him.

Well George, you must take me with you.

>> Aren't you afraid to leave?

You don't want to look like an old woman, do you?

>> Old woman?

Chang told you that, didn't he?

>> Yes.

>> I thought so.

He tells everyone I'm old.

He wants them to stay away from me.

He can't stand it when anyone comes near me.

He's punished me for every minute I've spent with George.

If it weren't for him, I'd have been out of here long ago, but he always stops me.

Six months ago, I tried to escape and he locked me in a dark room.

I nearly went crazy.

Look at me, Mr. Conway, do I look like an old woman?

Is this the skin of an old woman?

Look into my eyes, are these the eyes of an old woman?

>> George: She was kidnapped and brought here two years ago, just as we were, Bob.

>> I don't believe it, I can't believe it.

She's lying.

You're lying!

You're lying, every word you've been saying is a lie!

Come on, say it, you're lying, aren't you?

>> No, Mr. Conway, I'm not lying.

What reason could I have for lying?

Chances are we'll never come out of that horrible trip alive.

But I'd rather die out there in a snowstorm, be buried alive, than to stay here one more minute now.

(soft music) (chuckles) >> So the porters are waiting for us?

>> George: Yes.

>> Clothes?

>> Yes, everything.

>> What about the others?

>> I've already asked them.

They're afraid to make the trip.

We'll have to send an expedition back after them.

>> Come on, we're wasting time.

>> Are you taking me?

>> Robert: Yes, of course, certainly, come on.

(soft music) >> Well, it won't be long now before we're in London.

Can't you just see everyone when we pop in out of the blue?

We'll have them breathless when we tell them our story.

You had me worried for awhile.

I thought you were gone completely.

Lucky thing for me you snapped out of it.

Saved my life, I never could've made it alone.

>> What was that?

>> I was saying it's gonna be-- >> Can't you shut up?

Must you go on babbling?

(soft dramatic music) >> What's happened?

Where's Bob?

>> He's going, my child.

>> Going?

>> But he will return.

>> Oh no, no!

(soft dramatic music) Bob!

(soft dramatic music) Bob!

(soft dramatic music) >> George: Bob!

(soft music) Bob!

(dramatic music) >> Bob!

(dramatic music) Bob!

(dramatic music) (wind howling) >> Move!

(wind howling) (speaking in foreign language) >> I can't stand it, I can't go on any more.

I've got to rest.

(laughing) How long is this gonna go on?

I can't stand it, I say.

>> Bob, can't you get them to wait for us?

They're leaving us farther behind every day.

>> Nothing would suit them better than to lose us but we must go on.

Come on now.

>> No, I can't, I can't.

You've got to let me rest, you've got to let me rest.

>> Hey!

(speaking in foreign language) (gunshots blasting) (laughing) (speaks in foreign language) (gunshots blasting) >> Target practice again.

Now one of these days, they're going to hit us.

>> As long as they keep on aiming at us, we're safe.

Come now, child, come on.

(laughing) (speaks in foreign language) (gunshots blasting) (rumbling) (screams) (yelling in foreign language) (rumbling) (wind howling) >> Bob!

Bob!

Look at her face, her face!

Look at her face!

(wind howling) (thunder roars) (screams) >> George, George!

(intense music) (soft dramatic music) (intense music) (dramatic music) (speaking in foreign language) (soft music) (dramatic music) (people chatting) >> Leader: Come in from nowhere after a year.

>> Cable from Gainsford.

>> Oh, read it.

>> Leaving today for London with Conway aboard SS Manchuria.

Conway can tell nothing of his experiences.

He's suffering from complete loss of memory.

Signed, Gainsford.

>> Loss of memory?

>> Well, all right.

Give it to the press.

>> All of it?

>> Yes, might as well.

All of it.

>> Yes, sir.

>> I'll dispatch a convoy to meet him.

(dramatic music) (people chatting) >> Conway's gone again, run out.

Listen to this from Gainsford.

>> Let me have it.

Aboard SS Manchuria.

Last night, Conway recovered his memory.

Kept talking about Shangri-La.

Telling a fantastic story about a place in Tibet.

Insists upon returning there at once.

Locked him in room but he escaped us and jumped ship during night at Singapore.

I'm leaving myself to overtake him as I'm fearful of his condition.

Wrote down details of Conway's story about Shangri-La which I am forwarding.

Lord Gainsford.

(dramatic music) >> Why, here's Gainsford now.

>> Well, good to see you.

>> Good to see you.

Hello, fellows.

>> Gainsford.

It's good to see you again.

>> Gainsford, thought you'd never come.

>> Sit down, have a drink.

>> Yes, scotch and soda.

I'm parched.

>> There you are.

Ready and waiting.

Any news of Conway?

>> We're most eager to know what you discovered.

>> Where is he?

>> Gentlemen, you see before you a very weary old man who has just ended a chase that lasted nearly 10 months.

>> You mean to tell me you never caught up with him?

>> Since that night that he jumped off the ship 'til two weeks ago, I've been missing him by inches.

>> Really?

>> You don't mean it.

>> Was he as determined as that to get back?

>> Determined?

Gentlemen, in the whole course of my life, I have never encountered anything so grim.

During those last 10 months, that man has done the most astounding things.

Well, he learned how to fly, stole an army plane and got caught, put into jail, escaped all in an amazingly short space of time, but this is the only beginning of his adventures.

He begged, cajoled, fought.

Always pushing forward to the Tibetan frontier.

Everywhere I went, I heard the most amazing stories.

The man's adventures, positively astounding.

'Til eventually, I trailed him to the most extreme outpost in Tibet.

Of course, he'd already gone.

But his memory, oh.

His memory will live with those natives for the rest of their lives.

The man who was not human, they called him.

They'll never forget the devil-eyed stranger who six times tried to go over a mountain pass that no other human being dared to travel, and six times was forced back by the severe storms.

They'll never forget the man who stole their food and clothing, who they locked up in their barracks, but who fought six of their guards to escape.

Why, their soldiers are still talking about their pursuit to overtake him, and shuttering at the memory.

(chuckles) He led them the wildest chase through their own country.

And finally, he disappeared over that very mountain pass that they themselves dared not travel.

And that, gentlemen, was the last that any known human being saw our Robert Conway.

>> By Joe, that's what I call fortitude.

>> Think of it.

>> Tell me something Gainsford.

What do you think of his talk about Shangri-La?

Do you believe it?

>> Yes.

Yes, I believe it.

I believe it because I want to believe it.

Gentlemen, I give you a toast.

Here's my hope that Robert Conway will find his Shangri-La.

Here's my hope that we all find our Shangri-La.

(glasses clink) (inspirational music)