Move over!
We've been travelling all day. Shall we stop?
It's not far now, come on.
But the girls are tired.
Are we there? I need the toilet.
- Dad, where are we?- I wish I knew.
Excuse me...
My God!
I know it's late but I'm looking for Sister Bakhita.
- I know she's not well. - Unfortunately, she's passed away.
Her illness took her away two days ago.
I received...
I received this...
She told me she was ill.
I didn't think... I'm Aurora Marin
- What can I do? - Come in.
This is her room.
Could I stay here for a moment ?
Of course. Take your time.
I'm sorry.
Mom. Are you okay?
- Of course I am. - Why have we come here?
Who was Sister Bakhita ?
Her story began a long time ago.
Sit down.
Before your mother was bom, in a village in Sudan,
lived a girl who was your age.
Why are you here?
“The lion recognised you". the witchdoctor said.
The spirit of nature is with you. You're an exceptional being.
And while Bakhita was being celebrated in her village...
Angelico and Federico Marin, your grandparents, lived in Veneto.
- Angelica! - I'm coming!
- You look splendid. - It's gorgeous.
How do you know me so well ?
- Because I love you too much. - Are you feeling guilty ?
Come here.
- Federico. - Yes?
- I've got to tell you something. - Go on.
- Master. - What is it?
Excuse me for interrupting, I'm the new parish priest.
- I wanted to introduce myself. - We were expecting you, father.
- Did you have a good journey? - Yes, thanks.
- Would you like some wine? - No, I don't drink.
Here in Zianigo. the peasants are ignorant,
superstitious, dishonest and they enjoy their wine.
If you want them to listen to you, you'll have to drink too.
- Don't listen to him, he's joking. - I'm not, it's the truth.
And I'm an atheist...
loyal to the Kingdom of Italy, which your church despises.
- You drink during mass. - Yes, but...
I'll be offended.
But my wife is a woman of faith.
Don't take advantage of her kindness during my absence.
Why? Are you going away?
I'm going back to Sudan for a few months.
Just let me know if you need anything.
Supper's ready!
Follow me.
Shall we wait for madam?
Will you be smuggling arms or ivory this time?
You promised me that you wouldn't return to Africa.
I'm worried something will happento you.
What'll happen is that I'll get you hundreds of these!
Don't go.
Don't go this time.
Don't you dare tell me what I can't do.
What was it you wanted to tell me?
So grandpa left just like that?
He was a hard man, and proud.
- But he loved your grandmother. - There's no room at the inn.
But they've found us a place.
- That's good. - Yes.
Yes, let's go
You have to finish the story.
While we're walking.
- So your grandpa left for Africa. - Really?
Where he met a person who changed his life and mine too.
- He met Bakhita, the slave. - She was a slave?
Wasn't she happy in her village ?
No, something terrible had happened.
Go!
What's this?
You won't be needing that anymore.
till bring you luck.
Federico Marin
The white merchant with a passion for Africa! How are you?
- When did you get here? -I've been in Africa for two months.
I finished my business in Khartoum then I came here.
Good, my friend. What's that?
- You like it? - How much do you want for it?
It's German live got two boxes of them,
- Where's she from? - From some village.
Fifteen pieces of gold and her.
I just bought her for my daughter, she wants her own slave.
I can't give her to you.
Let's make it 16 pieces then.
You cost me an extra piece of gold.
You'd better be worth it, or I'll skin you alive!
Put the rifles in the general's boxes!
Hurry up with those boxes !
It's yours.
Move it!
Come on! Move it!
- Couldn't you find a younger one? - She's the youngest one.
No!
- What did he do? - He told the slaves to rebel.
Higher! Let everyone see him!
What's your name?
Can't you speak?
She can.
Don't talk until I tell you to.
Can you hear the walls complaining ? Or the rugs?
You're worth less than them.
You must only speak when I tell you to. Understood ?
Good girl, you're a fast learner.
I'll call you Bakhita, the lucky one.
You're lucky you came here!
Federico, my darling.
That which you've so longed for, has happened.
Master.
Out of the way.
The baby's in danger and so is her life.
- We have to intervene. - The master's arriving today.
He'll be here very soon.
- Can't we wait? - No.
Save the baby
Save the baby.
Angelica, the baby has little chance of surviving.
- Your life is in danger. - Save the baby,
I'm strong.
I'll be fine.
We'll both be fine.
Hurry, I want...
the baby to be here when Federico arrives.
Come and give us a hand.
- Keep hold of her. - Yes.
Push, Angelica
Now!
Marcella!
Federico.
I did everything I could.
My condolences.
Get out!
Federico, my darling,
that which you've so longed for, has happened.
We'll have a baby at last.
I wanted to tell you before you left,
but I was angry with you.
The baby will be born in two months time.
If you could be here with me on that day...
I'd be the happiest woman in the world.
When he's grown up, the three of us will go to Africa...
and well be together forever. My darling.
I'm waiting for you!
Take the baby away!
Ebe!
It's a girl.
Angelica called her Aurora.
And that little baby that was crying, was me.
Like Bakhita, I too lost my mother very young.
Mom.
Our destinies were the same.
And destiny would make us meet ten years later.
Come on, hurry up!
Ebe!
- The master's coming! - I know!
Master.
I've brought you a surprise.
Come along.
She's the black devil!
The black devil has arrived!
You see?
You've never seen the snow.
And they've never seen a black girl like you.
Have you lost your tongues ?
You won't sleep so peacefully from now on.
I've brought a black devil home!
Ignoramuses, come and look!
Come on!
Hurry!
Holy Mary! She's as black as night!
She looks like a statue.
Gentlemen...
I've brought you Africa.
I'll give two pieces of gold to whoever touches her first.
Lorenzo, come back.
She doesn't bite.
Watch out!
He touched her!
It doesn't come off!
I was nine when I saw Bakhita for the first time.
She was a poor defenceless creature.
She was scared...
stiff.
- Are you still cold? - No.
But everyone was scared of her.
That always happens when we meet someone who's different.
Why?
Because we feel threatened by what is different.
We fear we'll get hurt, but that's not true.
Come on, into bed.
Aurora, it's late.
Can you come out a moment?
Goodnight
Mom, what if I dream about Bakhita?
You'll be a lucky girl, she isn't scary in dreams either.
Goodnight, not a peep!
- What is it? - Why do you tell those stories?
- They get scared. - It's not a story, it's the truth.
You don't know what that woman represents for me.
Exactly.
I didn't even know about Sister Bakhita's existence for years.
Then she dies and we get dragged out here to sleep like cattle!
Ludovico, please!
We're going home tomorrow.
I'm sorry that she died.
We got here too late, there's nothing we can do now.
- Shall we go to bed? - No.
- She can take the bags up. - She's waiting for you.
Aurora.
She's sleeping, let's go.
- Papa! - Aurora.
- I thought you were sleeping. - I'm not!
I was pretending!
How are you?
- Has the doctor been every week? - Yes.
She's been taking her medicine every day.
- You said you'd be back a month ago. - I've brought you gifts from Africa.
Giovanna will show them to you.
- Papa ?- Yes.
Who is the black woman?
- She's African. - Where did you find here?
In a remote village
It was a very dangerous place and on that day...
I've got two boxes of them, are you interested ?
- 25. - I want 50.
You can't be miserly with friends.
You told me the city's not safe, I'll have plenty of clients.
Think about it till tomorrow, if your invite remains the same.
Of course, you're welcome.
- She's the slave girl. - You recognised her!
She's Bakhita, the best slave I've ever had.
Come here.
The white man is making eyes at you, but don't forget what you are.
Never.
Come here.
You kill him.
Kill him!
Shame on you!
Come with me.
Don't be ashamed of being hungry I learnt that in Africa.
Well?
No more bloody adventure stories to put us off our food ?
My cousin Guido's a moralist, but he's more ruthless than me.
He's one of the most famous bankersin Venice.
Business is good. How are things going here?
They're backwards here, they're ignorant thieving peasants.
Marin, have you brought us a new trophy?
- Who is she? - Bakhita.
Come here.
She's an example...
of African wildlife.
Have you already mounted her?
I've heard that Africans are sinners and that they have no soul.
How can one sin without a soul?
- Actually... - Master
Andrea would like to speak to you.
He's one of your farmers.
The cold winter ruined all his crops.
He needs a couple of extra months to pay his rent.
He has to pay up or leave.
- But he's a good worker... - If I'm lenient with him...
everyone will ask for more time.
I know...
- You inform him. - Me?
You've a kind word for everyone.
Wait! Bakhita, come here.
Take it to Andrea I'm feeling generous today
He's coming!
- Well, Father Antonio ? - Eat.
- Marin sent it for you... - So he's feeling generous !
I tried to persuade him, but he said you have to pay up or leave.
I was born there.
This is my home, what'll I do without a home?
- We'll find a solution. - And what about her ?
How will we get married ? How will she survive ?
He has to help us !
- You'll make things worse. - We've no firewood either!
It's easy for you!
Christ's servant always has place at the table.
While we're left to starve!
- I don't want charity! - Andrea, no!
Andrea's a good man.
He's a good man.
I was thinking of openinga silk mill.
But I need a loan to get started.
- This is becoming a habit. - I'll pay you back next year.
And I'll pay the debts on the property.
You're giving up travelling?
Until the English regain control of the country, there's no business.
Can you lend me the money?
I've bought a house in Venice, on Canal Grande.
I need extra servants.
Ebe, bring us another bottle.
As guarantee for the loan, I want her.
Andrea's broke, he can't even afford any firewood.
- He can sell the silkworms. - The eggs aren't hatching!
There's no hope.
Make sure you don't fall asleep
or we'll freeze to death tonight.
Understood?
Andrea won't be able to pay off our debts.
No more crying, sleep now.
Save your energy for tomorrow, sleep now.
Nature is with you.
You're an exceptional being.
You !
Come here!
Where are you from?
I don't know.
I know you're from Sudan.
Yes.
It's sunny there.
- There are plenty of lakes. - Yes.
- And lots of animals. - Yes, have you been there?
No, but my papa prefers living there.
I'm always ill, if I wasn't, my dad would take me to Africa.
You'll go together when you grow up.
I'll die before I grow up, like my mom.
What are you thinking ?
You'll become taller than me.
- Like this? - More!
But you'll have to get up and walk.
The doctor said I can't.
Fresh air is good for you, come here.
It's lovely!
Let's go outside.
Come on.
Come with me.
- Good girl. - It's pretty can I have it?
It's the only thing I have.
If I tell dad, he'll order you to give it to me.
Don't tell him
It's all I have.
Holy Mary! Close the window!
Get to bed!
Here's your medicine.
- The glass is dirty. - It can't be.
- I washed it. - I'm not drinking it.
Give it here. I'll change it.
You see? They're all scared of me.
- I'll tell my dad to beat her. - Giovanna's done nothing wrong.
Go away!
It's my job to look after the little miss. Stay away, blackie.
- Or you'll be sorry! - Giovanna ! Come here !
- They've hatched ! - I don't believe it ! Yes!
Oh, God! I can't believe it!
It's a good sign.
- When did it happen? - When I called you.
My goodness!
- Don't tell Marin! - We're out of firewood.
- Are you cold? - Yes, we're freezing.
I'm freezing too.
Wait, then
Here.
Take some.
All of you!
- Can we? - Come on!
- Thanks. - Take it home.
And get warm.
Have some more.
Thank you
Light a fire!
Thank you.
What are you looking at?
Who is God?
What do you want? Keep stirring.
- Bakhita! -Go on, quick.
The master wants you.
These little thieves...
stole firewood from the barn.
They're saying it's your fault, that you gave it to them.
You see, father? They need to be punished.
- Yes, sir. - But...
They're very sorry...
- What counts is you've got it back. - Are you defending them ?
Don't you know they all respect...
those they fear?
Give them all three lashes each.
They're telling the truth.
They didn't want to take it, I gave it to them.
- Who told you to do that? - They were cold.
- That's my firewood. - Yours?
- Whose did you think it was? - The forest's!
- The forest is mine too. - The forest?
- Yes, whose else could it be? - It belongs to the village.
My family has owned that forest for 300 years.
The forest is thousands of years old.
- So you can count too! - Yes.
You only need a few trees to heat your house.
- What about the others? - That's why I sell firewood.
You sell it.
Yes.
Enough now!
You see, father. Bakhita takes wood from the rich to give to the poor.
But you take from the poor to give to the rich.
All right, take the firewood.
Thank you.
And make Bakhita your priest instead of him.
- Now get out! - Say thank you to the master.
Get out!
Put your shoes on outside.
Bakhita!
Stay here.
In your village, you even shared the dust.
But here...
and here...
everything's mine!
And I decide what to do with it. Understood ?
Next time, I'll have to whip you.
I'm no different from your previous master.
Yes you are.
I can see your heart,
it's sad.
Guido, Ive received the permit to open the silk mill.
-Can you lend me the money? - What about your slave?
Come and take her when you want.
- Pleasure doing business with you. - Yes, I know.
Hurry ! Fetch some water from the well, Aurora's sick!
Come here!
Move!
You'll feel better now, poppet.
- Papa! - Calm down.
He'll be back soon.
Papa!
She's dying
- She's been possessed by the devil. - Hush, and pray.
Lord, have mercy on us.
Papa!
Calm down.
- I'll go get the doctor, stay here. - No, I'm scared by myself.
Scared of what?
If you see she can't breathe, sit her up or she'll suffocate !
Understood ?
Help.
Papa, help me.
Lord, have mercy on us.
She's possessed by the devil!
Why are you here? Why did you leave Aurora ?
You wretched girl!
- Why? - I was scared.
The doctor's on his way.
Everything's silent!
What if she's dead?
Come up with me, hurry!
You witch, have you put an evil spell on her ?
- She's killed her. - She's sleeping
She's as fresh as a rose.
Don't tell anyone you came in here. Understood ?
I've been here all night, haven't I?
I've been here all night.
God saved her.
You gave us a real fright
Sorry
Now try to get better
Well ?
It was just an attack of nerves, like last time.
- Will she get better? - I don't know
When can leave again?
Aurora needs total rest.
She needs tranquillity She's a very sensitive girl.
Wait here for me.
Good luck.
- Bakhita, are you ready? - Yes
Thanks for everything.
- How's Aurora ? - Better.
The doctor gave her some medicine.
When you go to Africa, take Aurora with you.
Africa's no place for my daughter. If she's sick, they can't help her.
Aurora is only sick when you're away.
Let's go!
Where's Bakhita?
She must be in the kitchen.
I'll see you in Venice when you come to sign.
I've authorized the loan, the papers will be ready in two days.
- Where's papa? - He's with Master Guido.
Goodbye
Farewell.
Bakhita!
Come back Aurora!
- Please! - Aurora!
- Bakhita's staying with me! - Go back in the house!
- Giovanna. - Yes.
I don't want Giovanna.
I want Bakhita!
- What are you saying? - Bakhita's good to me.
- Please! - Let's go!
- Stop this! - Go away!
Get off let her go!
- Let her go. - Bakhita!
- Are you talking to me? - Let go of her.
Come with me Aurora.
- We had a deal... - Aurora's been ill.
Well, you'll get your loan when she's mine!
I'll wait to hear from you
And so, Bakhita
became my nanny
- What did you do to Aurora ? - Nothing
You're a good for nothing, you're no longer my daughter's nanny.
Master, please.
That black woman will pay for this.
Bakhita and I were really happy.
But the others...
my father, Uncle Guido, the farmers... they weren't !
- And then ? - Well...
- It's time to sleep now. - No!
- Carry on! - All right then.
The next morning. Bakhita came into my room...
It's a lovely day. Let's go out and play with the other children
No, I'm too sick.
You can't stay cooped up in here all the time
Bakhita, come back!
- It's my turn! - It's Bakhita's turn count to 50!
All right.
Go under the stairs
Bakhita!
I'll tell papa to punish you !
I'm coming!
Where are you?
It's not Africa, but I enjoyed it.
Next time, leave something for me!
- It was a good hunting session. - Master !
Bakhita's being nasty to Aurorashe made her cry.
Children, I'm coming!
- Where's Aurora ? - I'm looking for her too.
You mustn't leave her alone, find her!
Here I am!
I win!
I did it!
Great, Aurora. Let's play it again!
- Weren't you sick? - No didn't you see her run?
You saw how fast she ran ? Bakhita, I won!
You always learn something in life.
- Let's play! - Bakhita, you lost. It's your turn!
I'll find you all this time.
Bakhita.
Come here.
Choose one.
Okay, I'choose for you
You deserve it.
Aurora's happy with you.
- Do you like it? - Very much!
Well?
If it's valuable.
I can pay Andrea's rent.
It makes no difference to me.
He has to pay his debt, not you.
Now it's too late, he has to leave.
Giovanna Andrea's in danger!
- Look. - Andrea!
- What's going on? - Andrea I'm the marshal
- Where's Andrea ? - Come out!
- Where's Andrea? - He's locked himself in!
- Andrea! - Giovanna come here!
Father Antonio
Marin's given the house to others, Andrea said he'll kill himself.
Go away!
- I'm going to see him! - Giovanna come back
I'll kill you all!
- Andrea! -Calm down sit down
Father, please do something.
Let us pray.
Let's go in. We have to get him, dead or alive.
I'll kill you all!
- Andrea! - Don't move or I'll shoot!
Let's get him before he kills anyone.
Stop!
- Why have you come in? - I don't know.
- You don't know? - I don't know.
Go away! All of you, go away!
Giovanna too, I can't provide for her.
I'll kill you all!
None of you help me, you've just come to see the show!
- No! - Stop!
- Don't
Stop!
I'll kill you!
You're alive!
Come with us.
Forgive me
Where are you taking him?
Marin's dangerous
No!
Aurora.
Is this your mother's room?
Aurora.
Should we be in here?
Aurora's getting better with Bakhita.
I can't take her away from Aurora.
You know what that means?
I won't get your loan.
I've never believed in black magic.
But I must be wrong I don't recognise you anymore, Marin.
It's your move.
Come here.
Papa...
Doesn't Bakhita look nice in this dress?
Who gave you permission to enter your mother's room?
- I thought... - Don't let this happen again!
Understood ?
Go back to your room!
You ! Wait.
Let's make a toast to the queen of Africa,
To Bakhita, Queen of Africa...
and of Zianigo
Why is my father so nasty?
Your father isn't nasty.
He's not happy.
Those who are hurting take it out on others.
- It's all my fault! - Don't say that
I heard Ebe and Giovanna say it,
That my mother died so I could be born...
and that he's been like this ever since.
Being born is a wonderful thing.
Your mother is very happy with her little girl.
- Really? - I'm certain of that.
And your mother?
I've never told this story...
to anyone
I tell you everything you have to do the same.
It was just an ordinary day.
We were happy.
And so...
I lost my mother
and I became a slave.
Now we both have secrets...
and no one will ever be able to separate us
No one
Aurora's sleeping.
I know.
I didn't know the dress belonged to your wife.
Keep it
No, thanks.
I said you can keep it.
The same grace...
the same humble nature.
Bakhita!
Papa.
Bakhita's not here anymore.
She's gone.
Andrea's come out of prison
- What'll he do now? - He's going to Germany.
- Look at that dirty... - What are you doing?
Nothing
I know what she's doing. You witch!
You witch!
What's going on?
She's putting an evil spell on the church with her amulet.
She's the cause of all our troubles !
You're through with ruining our lives!
That's enough, Giovanna!
- Calm down! - Giovanna's night!
She's a witch!
- What are they doing to Bakhita ? - Go inside
Go away!
The devil sent her here.
Go away!
What's going on?
Stop!
Put those pitchforks down!
Put them down!
You're worse than the Pharisees!
That 2,000 years ago took Jesus and dragged him through the streets
then beat him and crucified him.
Go home, put those stones down.
Give me that stone.
And pray that God forgives you.
- Did they hurt you? - No.
- Are you all right? - Yes.
Thank you.
- Brave warrior. - I'm no warrior ! I'm trembling.
You're cold too! Come over here.
Come here.
I'll get you a warm drink.
Then you'd better go home, you know what Marin's like
Here you are.
- Who is he? - Jesus Christ the Son of God.
God?
Yes, the Creator
God created man, and the world Everything that exists...
was created by God.
- This is the Son of God? - Yes
- A slave? - Why do you say he's a slave ?
Only slaves are crucified in my country.
- No. - Why are you laughing?
I'm not.
You know something? You're right
That's true
The Lord allowed his Son to be crucified like a slave.
to teach us that there are no slaves. servants or masters.
For Him, we are all the same. We're all His children.
We're all free
You, I the farmers...
Marin
Jesus died on the cross to show us...
that violence is a beastly thing
that we must love one another.
Love is the only thing that counts.
In all the years I've said these things
this is the first time someone has really listened to me.
Lord, this is a miracle !
A real miracle!
Giovanna and Ebe, leave us alone
Last night, Aurora woke up and couldn't find you.
Where were you?
I welcomed you into my house.
I entrusted my daughter to you.
and you leave her alone at night.
Aurora was frightened and she was crying
- master... -Don't call me that!
Masters have to be obeyed!
I warned you.
Bakhita!
- No, papa! - Come here, don't look.
No, papa!
Oh, Christ!
Was my grandpa that nasty?
He was strict and had a quick temper.
He'd never known anyone that disobeyed him.
His heart was closed.
Bakhita opened it for him.
Were you spying on them, mom ?
Yes
When I saw Bakhita in that state, I wanted the ground to swallow me up.
And I realised how much I loved her.
Bakhita.
I'm sorry
I'm really sorry.
It's my fault.
It's not your fault.
It's always been like this for me.
I'm just a slave.
For me you're not.
Please don't go. I can't live without you.
- I swear I'll return. - Come on, Andrea!
Come on, let's go
- Go! - I promise.
Yes, marshal.
Goodbye, Andrea!
- Calm down, Giovanna. - Andrea!
Giovanna!
- Giovanna, what's wrong? - Go away!
- What are you doing? - Why did you come here?
Didn't you hear me? Go away!
What's wrong? You can tell me.
I can't keep it.
Come with me.
I'm scared.
Come with me
- Have you eaten? - No I'm waiting for Bakhita.
Where's Bakhita ?
She went to collect the washing, she should be back now
- Go and look for her - It's all night, I'm not hungry
- I asked her to go. - I want her here now!
Go and find her!
Mauro! Go and find Bakhita!
Bring her here. Right now!
Father Antonio
Father Antonio!
Giovanna needs your help. Giovanna needs your heart.
Is she pregnant?
Why have you brought her here?
- Go to the presbytery. - Yes.
Mind the step.
When I arrived in Zianigo,
I thought I could help these people and give them hope.
Instead, in time I've become like them.
I have.
I'm resigned to my fate.
I think you're a good man.
You know what they call mein the village ?
The master's ass!
At first, they made me angry. I tried to get them to stop but..
then I gave up because after all... they're right
The son of God sacrificed his life for us on the cross.
Iam supposed to be his greatest servant
but what have I sacrificed ?
Nothing.
except for my dignity
Then...
you arrived. You own nothing but you give us so much.
So Marin also did a good thing.
We've found Bakhita.
- Where? - In church with Father Antonio.
Papa, don't hurt her!
- Please! - Ebe get hold of her.
-Calm down, Aurora. - Don't hurt her!
Mauro!
Don't hurt her! Please!
Father Antonio?
It's me
What did I tell you ?
You must never leave Aurora alone.
For no reason in the world, not even for an instant.
You won't listen and you're stubborn.
Now we'll go home and I'll teach you another lesson...
like your master would have done in Africa.
What are you doing?
This is the church's territory.
Stay out of this, priest!
- She belongs to me. - You have no power here.
If I find out that you've laid a finger on her.
I'll have to report you.
Bakhita, go outside. It's an order.
He can't force you to go with him if you don't want to
- Get out! - Or else?
Will you beat me too?
Get outside, Bakhita!
You heard me, obey my order!
I'm staying here.
Did you hear that?
Now leave
You've eaten the crumbs from my hands till now...
And now...
You've got a nerve!
You'll pay for this!
Both of you
END OF PART ONE.
What a scandal!
It's a disgrace.
A disgrace!
Send out the blackie!
When are you going to take action?
I lodged the complaint against Fr Antonio sir.
but it's an unusual case
It's embarrassing to see the State,
yield to the whims of the clergy
- I'm awaiting instructions. - Bakhita's mine!
"Bakhita, investigation into a saint for 2000 by Roberto Italo Zanini edizioni San Paolo sr.l. freely inspired by the life of Sister Bakhita"
Eat!
Eat I said!
Why did you make Rakhita run away?
Make her comeback please.
She's coming back
If it's the last thing I do.
Next.
Think for families
Wonder what he wants this time
Marin never moves stuff away
What am I doing by opposing Marin?
I know him well, he never gives in.
He'll make me pay dearly for this, you too.
If God created everything he must be master of everything
Masters don't exist for the Lord, will you get that into your head ?
I'm ignorant
If God sent his son and he died like that
he must know what suffering and pain is.
I don't know, but I think that...
he's a good wise master.
Even if he's not a master.
Federico, I'm worried about Aurora.
- Her condition's worsening. - Can't you do anything?
As a doctor, no. But you can, as a father.
But I see you're busy. What's caused this sudden generosity ?
Fr Antonio should carry out his duties as priest...
-... instead of stealing my staff. - What are you going to do?
Take back what's mine. The fun's about to begin.
- Want to join us? - No thanks, Federico
I have to attend to a sick farmer in the village.
Disease makes no distinction between rich and poor.
Poor fool!
Sister Teresa, at last!
- It's a long trip from Venice. - Yes let's go inside.
The pregnant girl's no problem
We'll place her with an institution they always need extra hands.
- But as for the black girls. - Bakhita!
- Bakhita. - What?
Marin has kicked up such a fuss, that to take her in.
I'd need the bishop's permission, and he's away on a pastoral visit
Besides, those who aren't baptized...
are not entitled to a free sojourn.
The annual rate is 75 liras.
- Can you cover it? - Me? No.
- I don't have a thing. - We need to find a benefactor.
- I need time. - But I don't have any!
Marin's capable of anything!
The black girl seems calm,
why are you so edgy?
You were very brave.
See it through.
Actually it's the first time I've felt proud of myself
But Im paying for it!
God will find a way to reward you for this good deed.
As for myself, I'll do everything I can to help you.
- Get ready, you're off to Venice. - And Bakhita ?
Unfortunately, she'll have to wait a little longer.
- Do what you can. - Yes
How will I manage in Venice without you and Andrea?
You're not alone.
Give me a nice smile
- Goodbye. Giovanna! - Goodbye Bakhita!
I'll expect you!
Quick!
Marin's coming!
Bakhita! Come out!
Bakhita go back in there It's dangerous !
Bakhita, come out or I'll come in and get you!
- Mr. Marin. - Good moming, Fr. Antonio
This is church territory
Sorry, but I can't let you in.
Send Bakhita out and nothing will happen to you.
I can't
You're mad.
I'm surprised at all of you: you were baptized in this church...
you came to confess here, you got married
And now you threaten God's house with your weapons.
We don't want the blackie in God's house, it's a disgrace!
A disgrace!
Shut up in there with you! It's a disgrace!
Shame on you!
Father
it'll be better for everyone if you send her out.
Your wife would never have allowed this.
Don't even mention her name.
- I'm going outside. - No stay here.
They'll hurt you too.
- Because of me! - You're a child of God too!
Think of yourself for a change I'll manage.
Put down those hoes and get that trunk!
Come on!
Again!
Marin! Stop!
Stop
Doctor, keep out of this!
- Get your daughter and leave. - What's going on?
Don't come near me ! There's smallpox in the village.
There'll be an epidemic
Smallpox !
Get my horse! Let's go back home!
They've all gone
There's no one here at all
Come on, load those sacks! Hurry or won't pay you!
Move it!
Leave us something what if there's an epidemic?
Hurry!
- Speed it up! - Come on!
want 20 sacks of grain!
What are you doing here? Move, we're working!
Aurora! Ebe!
- Get Aurora into the carriage! - Yes, master
Edo. Primo
There's no one here
Where've they gone ?
Rico!
What...
Federico! What's wrong?
I'm sick, Fr. Antonio
Bakhita!
Stop, Aurora!
Come here, Aurora
Don't come any closer!
So we escaped to Venice
- While smallpox struck the village. - Does smallpox kill people ?
- Yes, unfortunately. - Did many people die?
There's someone sleeping in this car.
He's woken up.
Hurry, daddy's woken up. Il do it. I'm quicker
Aurora! Girls, come on!
Come on, time to go!
- Hi, daddy. - Hello.
- Hello. Are we leaving? - Can we drop by the convent?
We discussed this yesterday. Get in the car girls!
- I'm not coming. - What?
I'll come back on the evening train. I'm confused...
This is too important for me.
No arguments, get in the car!
- Where's mommy? - At the convent. In you get!
Come on!
- I'm coming too Come here right away!
-Go back to daddy. - Na
- I said go back to daddy. - Tell us more about Bakhita first
- Tonight. Mommy, come on!
Behave yourselves, please.
Daddy's gone
Now what?
Well then, let's go on with Bakhita's story.
Bakhita was alone and abandoned
- Just like daddy abandoned us! - No.
Daddy's angry with me, not you.
Mommy, keep going
Bakhita waited for Fr. Antonio in the church.
But he didn't come back
Have you seen Fr. Antonio?
Keep away!
- Let's go. Push! - Have you seen Fr. Antonio
I don't know, maybe he's dead too.
Father Antonio
Father.
- I have to work. - What happened?
I must feed the sick.
Careful.
What are you doing here? Go back to bed.
I feel really sick.
What can I do sweetheart?
I can't let her die like her father and brothers.
The doctor's dead too Help me!
Come here.
I'll get you some milk, I'll be right back.
The whole area heard about Marcella and her daughter being taken in.
People were so surprised...
that they forgot superstitions and prejudices
- Mommy, what are prejudices? -Prejudices.
When someone judges without thinking.
And they end up doing or saying stupid things.
Giulia does that
- Daddy too. - What do you mean?
Good morning
- Need some help? - No thank you.
What's a city gent like you doing in a place like this?
- I was wondering that myself. - Are you lost?
- No, we came because of a nun. - You're here for Bakhita too.
They're coming from all over!
What was so special about her ?
It's a long story. Got a while ?
Go inside
Take them inside.
Come on.
Children!
Aurora!
Come and see how lovely it is.
Are you drawing ?
Why don't you answer me?
Hello, Marin
Have you both settled in?
Thank you for your hospitality.
It's an honour everyone's talking about the black girl who fled Marin
and went to hide in the church.
I'll get her back when the epidemic ends.
This isn't Africa!
You don't solve things with violence here.
Listen to me.
Count Altieri's cousin is the Catechumen abbess, Sister Teresa
Fr. Antonio asked Sister Teresato shelter Bakhita.
- Set up a meeting with her. - I already have.
She's expecting me tomorrow.
What are you drawing?
- More! - Give her a bit more.
She's had her share, there are other children too.
- Maria's hungry. - And the others aren't?
Well?
Stop it! Don't argue.
It just makes you more hungry.
So what can we do?
Come on!
All of you !
- He took all the provisions. - Damn him.
But he didn't take the fields.
Thank you for your generosity.
Well?
She'll send someone to get her. You'll soon have the black girl back.
Good
Theatess wanted to know who the black girls benefactor is.
- What did you say? - I said it was you.
Oh come on!
The important thing is that Bakhita comes to Venice now.
It's freezing
- You're frozen. - Yes, I am cold.
Stamp your feet!
Yes, that's it.
How nice!
Excuse me!
We're looking for Fr. Antonio.
Fr. Antonio is very sick.
You're Bakhita!
Stop! Were you infected by smallpox ?
It tried, but I wouldn't let it.
Who are you?
Novices from the convent in Venice. Sister Teresa sent us.
Do you remember her? She came to fetch Giovanna.
- Did she give birth? - Yes.
A beautiful baby girl You'll see her soon.
We're taking you to Venice.
Sister Teresa's found a benefactor
who'll pay for your sojoum.
- Venice? - Why? When?
- Now! - Immediately!
What do you mean?
You came a long way because of me.
- I'm sorry Bakhita, listen to me.
- I can't leave right now, can I ? - No.
- What shall we do? - You're welcome to stay here.
We could do with some youngsters.
Well, we are young!
Carolina, smallpox is nife here.
God is giving the chance to put our teachings into practice!
Wait!
Carolina!
We brought potatoes.
What have you done in here? This is God's house.
- How lovely, it's like a crib. - Ebe the medicines.
Pull.
Good moming
Thank you, cow. And the hen ?
Well done!
- Here for Fr. Antonio. - Wait, I'll do it.
Put it in the soup
Father.
We never stop working here, when will we rest.
- Tomorrow. - You said that yesterday.
- You're really pig-headed! - What do you mean?
You never listen to other people.
Me?
I'm a slave. I've obeyed others all my life.
- Sorry! -No forget it.
Pig-headed...
I like that.
Bakhita!
Run!
Father Antonio.
Let's change his shirt.
Agata!
- Will you help me, please? - Poor Fr. Antonio.
It's difficult to accept the will of God.
I talked with God He said he won't let him die.
Father Antonio still has much work to do.
- You know our religion? - No.
But I speak to God every day,
About F. Antonio about my friends about Giovanna and Aurora.
And someone as busy as Him..
still listens to a pig-headed woman like me.
I often talk to Him too, but,
I never to find the right words.
- Does that ever happen to you? - No.
You're lucky
Of course!
Bakhita means lucky.
Now you'd better eat something.
Don't be so pig-headed
Were hungry! We want to eat.
- It's not dinner time yet! - Rit's a miracle Maria's hungry.
She hasn't touched food for two days!
We need rules, we keep regular hours in the convent.
- We're doing fine without them. - Do what you want!
You can be sure of that
Come on!
It reminds me of washing my little sister in Africa.
- Did they wash Jesus too? - Yes.
It's a purification.
with water and the Holy Spirit we call it baptism.
Baptism?
Jesus did it humbly.
and we do it to become Christians.
Next time I speak to Him I'll ask permission to do it.
- Rest in peace. - Amen.
In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost. Amen.
I'm so sorry, it was terrible.
Poorboy.
Maybe Marco's happy to be where he is now.
- Really? - I think so.
In heaven, in the arms of the Lord.
Up there.
He doesn't want to see his mother looking sad.
The sun's always there, even if the clouds hide it sometimes.
How nice!
I got you!
Come on!
Bakhita!
- I'm better, I'll play too! - Yes! Maria's feeling better!
- Bakhita, don't make her sweat! -Got you!
I don't understand how she can play at a time like this.
Play is the best medicine there is...
Fr. Antonio !I said that God still had need of you.
Thank you.
Come here, children. Don't push, I'm still weak
Bakhital
Bakhita Agata and Carolina are waiting to take you to Venice.
Let me stay with you. Fr. Antonio
You know I'd like that but it's not possible.
But now the smallpox has passed Aurora will come home.
- You still think about her, right? - All the time.
I don't want to lose you too
No, how could you? After all you've done?
How can you think we'd lose touch with each other?
As soon as I'm able I'll visit you at the convent.
I promise.
Thank you
- From all of us. - Thank you.
We thank you. I also wanted to tell you...
Don't say a word.
- Goodbye, - Goodbye, Bakhita
Goodbye.
Bed wetter!
Look Nino!
Let me see.
Is she coming here?
I've never seen a woman like that!
- Look! - She's black, how scary!
She's so black !
Welcome Bakhita.
I've been waiting for you for days.
I told you to come right back to Venice.
It was me who insisted on staying.
No, it's my fault. I'm pig-headed.
Are you?
- She wouldn't come right away. - But she was right.
Explain.
I saw Bakhita during the smallpox epidemic.
What she did for others without complaining.
without fear of contagion
I don't think there's anyone more deserving of baptism.
Close proximity to suffering has changed you, Agata.
Carolina, what have you leared?
Helping others and being charitableis our duty.
You knew that before you left.
What can you add to that?
That it wasn't easy.
Our calling is never easy
As novices, you must put your vocations to the test.
Now go to prayers.
Bakhita.
You benefactor would liketo meet you.
We shall visit him later,
Now go
How are you? Do you need anything?
It's still all new to me. I'm lucky Giovanna's here.
Look, this is for her daughter.
I can't wait to hug them both.
I just found out she went to join Andrea in Germany.
I'm sorry
Bed wetter!
Children!
What are you doing?
Are you made of chocolate ?
Taste.
- Well? - You don't taste of chocolate
That's lucky, or you'd have gobbled me up
What about you? You're so serious!
He pees his pants and can't talk.
Time to eat children. Hurry!
- What's wrong with him? - He's called Rocco.
The doctors think he suffered a serious trauma.
He's been here a year, but we can't get him to talk.
He'll be sent to an institute for deaf-mutes in the autumn.
"He got up and went to his father
And while he was still far off,
his father saw him and was moved to pity.
He ran to meet him, threw his arms about him and kissed him.
The son asked the father
Have I sinned against heaven?"
"Have I sinned..."
Where's she going?
Rocco. I brought you a roll.
If not, those rascals would've eaten it.
Eat up!
You know Rocco, I understand you.
I lost my parents and was alone for a long time.
I was very sad.
Then I met a friend called Aurora.
Talking to her did me a lot of good.
Loneliness is a terrible thing.
If you want to talk to me one day I'll be very pleased.
Think about it Eat up!
Bakhita
Your benefactor's waiting
Hurry.
Think about it
Go on, think about it!
Aurora wanted to buy clothes for Bakhita.
Aurora or you?
The gentleman are expecting you.
- Bakhita! - Aurora!
- It's you! - Bakhita!
Bakhita you re here!
How wonderful!
- You're here at last! - How come you're here?
How wonderful!
Mother Abbess
allow me to present my brother-in-law,
Federico Marin
You're Federico Marin?
Fr. Antonio told me what you did to Bakhita.
If I'd have known you were paying, I would not have accepted.
Come on, Mother.
give him chance to explain.
I know I behaved too roughly.
but I think it's best for us all if we put a lid on this scandal.
I've changed.
And I want to prove it."
This is your bed see how big it is?
And these are your new clothes Papa bought them.
How lovely!
Papa promised that he won't hurt you anymore.
If he does. I'll defend you.
Sweetheart I've missed you so much.
Bakhita, Mr. Marin wants to be reconciled with you.
He approves of your wish to be baptized.
Religion's a matter of conscience no one can interfere.
If you want to get closer to God, you're free to do so.
- Free? - To practice your faith here...
or in Africa.
where Mr Marin wants to take you and his daughter.
In Africa? I'm going home!
I bought a hotel in Suakin. we'll move there.
- We're going home, are you happy? - yes.
- Sit with us. - Are you pleased ?
Yes, I'm very happy. Thank you.
You no longer work for me. Sit down.
- You're part of our family. - So you can come and live with us.
The baptism is in ten days time, she must prepare.
Right
You're a bom actor
Perhaps... or perhaps not
I know the answer
Fr. Antonio! What a surprise!
- Bakhita. - I'm so happy!
I couldn't stay away and let someone baptize you in my place.
Come and play, come on!
Today's a celebration!
Go with the children... I'll see you later.
Off we go!
Come on!
- It's started, I'll see you later. - Yes, we'll wait for you here.
Enter God's Temple, to share eternal life with Christ.
Giuseppina Margherita Fortunata I baptize you.
- Guido, I'm going to take a peek. - A peek?
You're going in without a rifle ? This black girl must be a saint!
If she's so exceptional why don't you marry her?
Yes, why not?
Accept the robe of baptism, carry it spotless to the tribunal of Jesus
and receive eternal life.
I was so happy!
I thought we'd never be apart again.
Then what happened?
Bakhita's heart was so big.
and mommy wanted it all for herself.
Hello, king of silence!
Where are you taking me today?
In silence, of course!
It's his mother.
The poor thing was killed last year. Her husband did t he was a drunk.
This poor little wretch saw the whole thing.
I understand you some things are difficult to say.
Luckily, he's got you now.
But I'm leaving.
How does it look?
Well?
It's fine.
- I'd shorten it a little. - So would I.
I'm sorry you'll be in Africa when I take the veil.
I'm a little tired, excuse me.
- Forgive me. - Bakhita can you come with me?
Yes.
Carolina, try on your habit. Come on.
There's no need
At first, I thought mine was all right too.
No!
I can't go through with it.
I'm not like you.
- I wanted to talk to you about it. - You chose the wrong person.
- I'm more confused than you. - No. I realized thanks to you.
I watched what you do for others
I do it for myself I'm happier when I help others.
That's the difference.
It's always a duty for me, never a joy.
I'm going home.
Hello, Rocco. What is it?
Should I come with you?
I've sent for her. she'll be here in a moment.
- What are you doing? - We don't want you to leave!
- Don't go! - Aren't you hungry?
Stop being naughty!
Children! Bakhita, come on. Marin's waiting for you.
- Pride's a sin, isn't it? - Yes, of course.
Tell her to stay!
You're proud when you think you're better than you are,
and you think you can do what you like.
Yes, of course. Why do you ask?
Yes, naturally.
I'd like to be kept up to date on your movements in Africa.
- And to have news of Bakhita. - Of course.
Good morning. Bakhita. Shall we go?
Forgive me, master. I was wrong.
Let me serve God every day in the convent.
With this.
You want to be become a nun?
Excuse me!
Bakhita!
What's the meaning of this farce?
- Did you know about this? - No I assure you.
We agreed that she'd come with me after the baptism.
- You must respect that! - I talk to her.
I'm astonished too give me time.
Priest...
it was you who influenced her.
You!
You'll all pay for this!
Bakhita's staying!
Bakhita!
- Where is she? - She's a liar.
She doesn't care about us.
No, you hurt her and she doesn't like us now.just like mama!
- I hate you! - Don't mention your mother again
Bad people have given her strange ideas.
We have to force her to come back, understand?
Force her.
Yes, papa. Force her!
I'm reporting the Canossian Sisters to the Royal Officer for kidnapping.
That's more like it.
This is war, Federico.
And we'll win.
Why didn't you tell me before that you want to become a nun?
I didn't have the courage.
Sometimes we misinterpret God's word through fear.
You want to take the veil to avoid leaving with Marin?
I'm not afraid of him.
It seems like a hasty decision to me.
A sister is called to take a vow of chastity..
poverty and obedience.
For her entire life.
Think about it
You could be free without taking the veil.
I'm chaste,
I know poverty because I've never had anything.
and I've obeyed everyone.
Why shouldn't I obey the one who gave me all I have ?
Bakhita.
- What does it mean? - Lucky.
You think it's the right name for you?
Yes.
I'm happy.
What is happiness for you?
God's love
it's always been with me in some strange way.
Even when I didn't realise it.
My whole life has been a gift from God.
I know you suffered many humiliations.
You were kidnapped!
Tortured.
If I met those people again I'd bow down and kiss ther hands.
Because if it wasn't for them, I wouldn't be a Christian now.
And maybe they didn't realise what they were doing.
it was just what they were used to.
- Did I say something stupid ? - No.
We'll bear all this in mind.
That's all for now.
Bakhita has a very big heart,
but I don't know if she can fully understand God's word and spread it.
Accepting Bakhita into your order will be a difficult decision.
It's very late.
Please. I must speak to Aurora.
- Yes, come in. - Thank you.
Bakhita
This is your last chance.
If you stay here with us we'll all be happy.
or it will be left to the courts to force you back.
Aurora.
Don't touch me.
You're right to be angry, but I don't want to leave you like this.
I want to explain.
You said you care about me. but it's not true.
You're the person I care about most in the world.
So why won't you come with me?
In Africa I was a slave to a man and his family,
I was their property.
I couldn't do or say anything.
If they wanted to, they could have killed me for no reason.
They did this to me, remember?
There was the same design on the walls furniture...
and door of the house.
Then you came along and it was a miracle.
I didn't know what it meant to be loved. You taught me..
I was so very, very happy.
Well ?
The world's full of sad lonely people.
Just like I used to be
Now I know that I must serve God and help them.
Do my little bit to make them more cheerful,
just like we did.
What about me?
You'll always be in my heart!
You don't need me anymore. you're going to make it.
You're strong.
And you've got your father too h's changed.
- I know it. - But I want you and him.
I want both of you.
It's difficult for me too.
Stay with me, it's an order!
I'm not a thing anymore.
It was harder to understand that.
Harder that obeying serving or being whipped.
You're a bad person !
Papa said he'll force you to come with us.
And he will.
Even if you say you won't you're coming with us!
Get out!
You're wicked!
It's up to the court to make a decision over Bakhita's freedom,
but it's the Church's duty to reply to her request.
Bakhita has requested to be accepted into your order.
Each of you has had time to think it over.
Before making a decision,
I want to hear from all of you.
Just say one word: accepted or rejected.
- Go ahead. - Sister Violante.
Rejected.
- Sister Maria. - Accepted.
- Sister Roberta. - Rejected.
- Sister Gelsomina. - Rejected.
- Sister Angela. - Accepted.
- Sister Irene. - Rejected.
- Sister Attilia. - Rejected.
- Sister Attilia. - Rejected
-Sister Agata. - Accepted.
They're voting on who wants Bakhita and who doesn't.
Some say yes, some say no.
Some say accepted others say rejected.
What's happening?
If Bakhita goes. I'll run away.
Sister Anna.
Rejected.
- Sister Giuseppina. - Accepted.
Sister Maura.
Rejected
- Sister Santina. - Rejected.
Sister Paolina
The "rejecteds" are winning!
The "rejecteds' are winning!
Bakhita's leaving
Bakhita mustn't go!
Where are you going?
Accepted!
Rocco's talking!
Accepted.
Rocco.
Accepted.
Bakhita!
Accepted.
I knew you could talk.
It's an amazing story.
Why didn't my wife tell me about herself and Bakhita ?
Who is your wife?
Aurora Marin.
I'm talking to Aurora's husband ?
Yes
Bakhita left something for your wife with me.
Really?
I understand your wife, some things are hard to say.
Believe me, I know
Accepted!
Read all about it!
The trial to decide the fate of Bakhita starts today.
Read all about it!
Bakhita's trail starts today, before the crown prosecutor.
Come on!
Good for you.
Bakhita's chosen someone to speak in her favour.
- Who? - You.
Me? I'm just a simple country priest.
- You know me better than anyone. - Yes, but that's not enough.
- False humility's a sin, Father. - False ? No.
Silence!
I declare the hearing underway.
We'll hear from the party bringing this action, Federico Marin.
All right.
Bakhita was born in Africa.
How many of you have been there?
It's a continent where life is worthless.
Especially that of a slave: sickness, violence, brutality.
A slave's life can be ended in an instant.
Bakhita's master beat, whipped and humiliated her over trifles.
Why? Because it was the custom.
If I hadn't taken her with me, Bakhita would be dead.
Ask her yourselves.
Like millions of slaves killed on the whim of others...
by human brutality
I saved her and brought her to Italy.
She became part of the family. I entrusted my daughter to her.
a sick child who is suffering greatly because of this desertion.
Does this seem night to you?
Bakhita wanted to be baptized and I let her.
God is everywhere, isn't he?
Then he must also be in Africa.
She could pray there, but she doesn't want to.
She can neither read nor write, but she wants to be a nun!
Well then, I want to be king.
Does it seem possible?
If I asked for that you'd all think I was mad.
I'm just asking for what I'm entitled to.
That which is mine by the right of acquisition.
Yes, I'm asking for myself, but it's in your interests too.
And yours!
If you don't give Bakhita back to my family.
the law you represent will be worthless.
because anyone will be able to wake up.
and claim the right to anything.
Side with her and you're saying anarchy. rebellion and chaos rule.
Is that what you want?
I don't think so.
Let's hear from the defence.
Marin has spoken of...
property of rights.
These are matters concerning things, not people.
Speak louder and stand.
Yes, excuse me.
You must decide whether Bakhita is a thing or a person.
Because if she's a thing then Marin is right...
and he owns her like a house or a sheep and can do what he wants.
But if Bakhita is a person...
What is a person?
A being endowed with wishes,
feelings, will.
But above all, the freedom...
to decide their own destiny because God wanted it that way.
The truth is that Bakhita frightens us,
because her skin is a different colour to ours,
because her soul is crystal clear and knows neither hate nor ill will.
I've never encountered such a pure, good, kindly soul.
But wherever she went she scandalized the poor and the rich.
Even people of the church.
We can't manage to comprehend how...
a poor savage can think. have dignity, understand God...
be like us.
Up to now she's been seen as a slave, something to push around at will,
something we all know the truth about.
But all we actually know is prejudice.
and fear.
The Lord sent us Bakhita...
to open our eyes to our limits.
It's up to us whether we see them, or stay blind forever.
Bakhita.
Do you want to stay in the care of Federico Marin?
I request the court to let Aurora, my daughter, speak.
- The girl's too young. - But your Honour!
They speak of a person's dignity yet they don't recognise.
your autonomy of thought.
Aurora knows Bakhita better than anyone else.
The child may speak.
Come along!
Silence!
Go on!
Bakhita doesn't believe,
she told me God was an excuse so she could stay here.
That she believes.
That she laughs at the nuns...
That she believes in spints...
Aurora!
Silence!
Bakhita, do you want to stay in the care of Federico Marin,
who will give you a future?
Or do you prefer to stay a free woman in Italy.
even if you are far from home, and follow your vocation as a nun?
What must I do Aurora ?
You tell me.
It's only right...
that you decide.
I stay here.
Silence!
Bakhita, you are free of any obligation to Federico Marin.
Follow your vocations
It's a disgrace!
This man kept her.
There's a debt to pay
She's free!
Long live the Venetian Republic!
Long live Venice!
It's a scandal!
She's free!
What do you want? What do you want to stay with us?
Do you want to live in Italy, in Venice, in Zianigo ?
Convent life is hard, poverty-stricken.
I can give you whatever you want.
Everything you want.
I'm doing this for Aurora, please.
I'm doing it for me.
You opened my heart.
You're a good man, Federico Marin.
When a heart's open... it's open.
There are so many things you can do.
And only you can do them.
You and Aurora don't need me anymore.
Yes.
And grandpa finally started to play with me.
He was different from that day on: we travelled Africa, Italy.
And Bakhita ? Did you ever see her again?
- No. - Why?
The truth is. mommy tried to forget her.
and block her out of her life, but...
here I am.
Ma'am.
I'm sorry, but the Mother Superior can't receive you.
Did you tell her my name? Aurora Marin.
Of course.
Bakhita must have mentioned me. she'll know me
Your name's familiar, but she's old and can't remember exactly.
received this telegram.
- Why did Bakhita want me here? - I don't know.
We'll let you know if we find out anything more.
Mommy, where will we sleep? I'm tired.
Are we going to bed?
Yes, we are
Excuse me
Look, it's daddy!
Hello, daddy.
SORRY.
You were right.
- Staying here was pointless. - No.
Staying here was pointless.
You were right.
- This is for you. - You should have.
It's not from me.
It's from Bakhita.
My little Aurora.
I thought of you every day for all these years.
The little girl who hugged me tight.
when I was just a poor slave.
I'm leaving you the only thing I own.
A very wise man gave it to me
I didn'know what it held. but now I do.
Freedom.
May you live in freedom and the joy of the Lord.
Open your heart and raise your eyes to heaven.
May the Lord be with you my darling.
Your Bakhita.
How nice!
My darlings.
On December 8th 1896 Bakhita took the vows,
and became a Canassaan nun.
In 2000. Pope John Paul II proclaimed Mother Giuseppina Bakhita a saint.