Original subtitles

The restoration of "General Della Rovere" was curated by MINERVA / RAROVIDEO and the National Cinematheque

in collaboration with the National Museum of Cinema and the Historical Archive of Contemporary Arts of the Venice Biennale,

for the one hundred year anniversary of Roberto Rossellini's birth.

The film was remastered and restored in High Definition by the LVR laboratories in Rome under the technical supervision

of Aldo Strappini (RARO VIDEO) and Roberto Taruffi (National Film Archive), with the advice of Adriano Apra

and with the contribution of Sergio Bruno.

This exclusive Director's Cut version of "General Della Rovere" was presented in 2001 by the National Film School

and the National Film Archive on the basis of a positive safety print stored by the Historical Archive of Contemporary Arts

at the Venice Biennale. This is the version of the film that was screened at the 20th Venice International Film Festival

Director's Cut version length: 3772 meters Theatrical version length: 3606 meters

GENERAL DELLA ROVERE

Our women no longer love us.

Because we wear blackshirts...

DESERTERS AND DRAFT DODGERS WILL BE EXECUTED

ARTILLERY GROUP "B. COLLEONI

ANYONE FOUND CARRYING FIREARMS...

WITHOUT AUTHORIZATION WILL BE EXECUTED.

- Is the curfew over? - Yes, it's ten past six.

We're lucky it's cloudy today.

When it's cloudy, they're unlikely to bomb us.

It's our turn now.

WE WILL WIN

Come here! Didn't you hear us?

There's no point shouting.

He obviously doesn't speak German.

Excuse me, is there a phone nearby?

All the bars are closed now. You've got a puncture?

It's the fourth one, and we have no more spares.

Just around the corner, there's a tire repairer.

Thank you.

He says there's a tire repairer just around the corner.

Another nail planted by the partisans?

Get the spare wheel.

- Cigarette? - Thanks.

Thanks.

Come here. Look, the first turn on your right.

Thanks.

Thanks.

- Are you Genovese? - I'm Neapolitan.

This time last year I was in Naples,

at the Hotel Vesuvio.

I'd open my windows and look out at the sea.

On one side, Mergellina, Posillipo, on the other Capri, Sorrento...

- And Auntie Teresa down below. - Right.

We were sorry to leave Naples, we liked it.

But your fellow citizens...

were pleased to see us leave.

They were so joyous they started shooting at us.

Actually, I'm from Sora.

It's a town between Naples and Rome.

So in fact, I feel more Roman than Neapolitan.

The Romans don't like us either.

- Are you based in Rome? - Not anymore, I'm in Milan now.

- Do you like it? - Noting the least.

The weather's horrid and the people are hostile and rebellious.

You Italians don't like this war.

We don't like wars in general.

This is a necessary war, wouldn't you agree?

Yes, but not everyone's like me.

Exactly, and this creates some awkward situations.

- Can I help you? - No, thanks.

- I have to go to work now. - Thank you, Mr...

- Grimaldi, I'm an engineer. - Colonel Muller.

I hope to meet you again.

I hope so too.

- What time is it? - It's only six, go back to sleep.

Have you been gambling again?

Don't worry, we'll talk later.

Did anyone call?

- Did you lose again? - I asked you a question.

I don't know, ask Maria.

- Maria... - Who is it?

It's me. Did anyone call?

Yes, your lawyer, Borghesio, called twice.

- Anyone else? - No.

- Oh, yes... Mrs. Camelli. - Cantelli. What did she say?

She said, "Tell the Colonel that my brother was released."

- She sends her regards and thanks. - Released? Are you sure?

Yes, she said he went home.

Released! I don't understand these Germans!

- Shall I make you some coffee? - No, sleep now.

Colonel, a parcel arrived. I put it in the dining room.

THIS IS A PARCEL FOR MY FATHER, I HOPE YOU CAN GIVE IT TO HIM

More salami!

The electricity's been cut off.

Valeria, I'm in trouble.

- You have to help me. - What do you want?

Give me something I can pawn, just for a few days.

You had a wad of bills yesterday!

Eh... I'm unlucky.

Borghesio gave me 100,000 liras for his son

and I gambled it.

I wanted to round up the 50,000 I was owed

and I thought I'd get lucky.

I'd lost the night before

so last night I should've won, but...

Some lucky bastard won the lot!

It was a terrible night.

You can't imagine how badly I felt!

But I take these risks for you too.

You think I don't feel responsible having a woman like you?

That I don't feel bad that you can't have the life you deserve?

You've been saying that for three months, Emanuele.

You can't charm me anymore.

Hello?

My dear Mr. Borghesio.

No, don't worry. I'm an early bird.

Any news?

Things are looking up.

What was that?

Has the order arrived?

No, not yet.

Everything will get sorted out today.

I know. I know you're worried.

Don't worry, tell your wife too.

Everything will be all right.

You have to trust me.

I've taken this matter to heart, I'm losing sleep over it.

I talked to him.

I'll see to it today.

Don't worry.

Don't worry.

It's a matter of life or death.

I must give that stingy German the 50,000 I owe him before noon

or he'll send Mr. Borghesio's son to Germany.

It's not my problem!

If I could pawn something just for two days...

No, you've already taken my earrings.

I'll get them back, I swear. Don't you believe me?

- No. - Don't be so cruel.

- I swear I won't gamble again. - Do what you like.

- I'm going anyway. - Where?

To Turin. I've got a job at the radio station.

- Doing what? - Singing, you fool!

Dancing and acting. Some life, at last!

You don't realize these are difficult times,

full of danger.

But I'm ready for anything. Something's happening.

I'm organizing some shows for the armed forces.

When the war ends,

I'll set up your magazine business and your friends will envy you.

You've made lots of promises...

It's not my fault all my assets are in the South!

Emanuele, here you go again! I'm not sure the South exists!

So?

So...what?

Give me your necklace and bracelet...

And my ring, my brooch... I said no!

Stop insisting.

Why don't you pawn this ring you gave me?

The one with the oriental sapphire.

Take it.

Take that to the pawn shop.

You didn't think I knew it was fake? You fool!

No one gets away with fooling me!

I never said a word about it

because I'm a lady.

- Doria, go in. -That's me.

- Is Sergeant Major Hageman here? - Yes. He's busy but go ahead.

- May I? - Come in.

Please excuse me for a moment.

He was arrested three weeks ago outside San Giorgio.

The prison in Marassi sent me here.

- What's his name? - Canevari Alberto.

- Run a check, please. - Right away.

Canevari, Alberto.

He's the communist that was executed last week.

No, he's not a communist. My husband's not interested in politics.

I swear on my little girl's life.

She said he was arrested with some communists.

If he's honest and not into politics, he'll be freed.

- But when? - That doesn't depend on us.

Can I visit him and take him some clean clothes?

You'll need to ask the prison.

Thanks.

- Excuse me, please... - Wait, I'm busy.

- Ladies first. - Yes?

We're looking for Lieutenant Michele Fassio.

He was arrested in Savona last Thursday.

- Are you his family? - I'm his wife.

I'm his mother.

My son's never been involved in politics.

He fought in Africa and Albania and he received a silver medal.

You said Michele Fassio?

Get it, Miss Sieglinde.

Here you are.

Lieutenant Michele Fassio, son of Angelo and Matilde Masero,

born on the 8th of June, 1916, in Varigotti?

Yes.

Lieutenant Fassio was arrested,

accused of being a member of the armed brigades

that operate against our troops

and against the legitimate government of the Italian Social Republic.

But after the 8th of September, my husband was at his father's villa.

He was supposed to turn up for military service.

An Italian officer doesn't need to be told his duty.

Calm down, Carla. The gentleman was saying

that perhaps Michele should have shown up.

You know, they're so young.

He was upset by it all.

These are difficult times for everyone.

Both sides need to show some understanding.

The propaganda of hatred weakens the soul.

But don't lose hope,

our German friends are almost always understanding.

Let's go, mother.

I told you there wasn't hope of them helping us.

She's quite a lady!

- Some coffee, Colonel? - If it's real coffee, yes.

- But if it's the one I had before... - It is.

All right. Thanks. You're very kind, miss.

- I saw Mr. Borghesio, the lawyer. - Well?

He couldn't raise the money, but he gave me something of value.

It's an oriental sapphire mounted in platinum.

That's of no use to me.

I said 50,000 and that's what I want.

- But this is worth much more. - I want the money.

- Precious stones are an investment. - Yes, but they're not money.

- A sapphire is a sapphire. - I want the money.

Don't be so stubborn, where will I get it?

It's simple. If that ring is worth more than 50,000 liras,

sell it and keep the change.

Well, it's a shame. I wanted you to keep it.

You'll marry one day, wont you?

So much could happen before that day.

Here's your coffee.

So we're agreed then.

Always at your service.

Thanks for everything, Sergeant Major. Goodbye.

Shall we help Mrs. Fassio?

No, it's a lost cause

and I don't like that woman.

I do.

I'll see you in the morning.

I'll be here.

Ladies, I'll be in the bar.

I've got good news.

Come this way.

Have a seat.

May I? I'm Colonel Grimaldi.

The Gospel says, "Judge not that ye be not judged."

Don't be fooled by appearances, madam.

I told you my name but don't ask why I'm friends with the Germans.

These blue stripes show I served my country

with loyalty and honor.

Our country, scorned and downtrodden.

Three coffees, real ones!

- Neapolitan coffee? - Yes.

Forgive my abruptness in asking you to come,

but these are dangerous times.

I'll get to the point.

I will have to be discreet about certain matters

and you too in consequence about others.

- I've made myself clear. - No.

I mean that given our circumstances

we need to be somewhat discreet.

Listen, let's get one thing straight.

If you can help my husband just tell me how.

- Carla! - Let's get to the point.

You asked me if I can help her husband.

I'm saying, "Within the limits of my abilities."

But the accusations,

whether true or false, are very grave.

I have to meet someone. It's a very similar case to yours.

I hope I've been helpful.

We Italians have to help each other,

despite the hatred.

Excuse me, I'll be right back.

He seems like a nice man.

Don't worry, you have my word, your son won't be leaving.

Thanks for helping my son and for what you'll do.

But do you think he'll be released?

We can't expect too much. Just be glad he's not leaving,

then we'll see.

- I need to talk business. - Go ahead.

Two ladies are in financial trouble

and need to sell a family heirloom.

- It's an oriental sapphire. - It's nice.

A marvelous stone, it's only 50,000 liras.

50,000? Where will I get that?

To raise the 100,000 liras I gave you

I had to mortgage my house under crippling conditions!

I bet.

But I can show it to someone else.

No, it's not worth it. Goodbye, Sir.

- Thanks a lot. - Don't worry.

Sorry.

You haven't drunk your coffee? It's real.

We always drink real coffee at home.

We have tons of it.

Don't take any notice of her, she's beside herself.

- Don't abandon us. - Don't worry.

Listen, if there's anything you need...

You think Michele will be freed because his father's rich,

but what about all the others they've arrested?

- You'll pay for them all? - Leave it to me.

-Where can I find you? -You can call us?

- Fassio. - 86386.

Fassio...

Fassio, 86386.

All right.

I hope soon to give you news about your son.

Thank you.

Goodbye.

No news from the front at Anzio.

An enemy bomber was destroyed by our fighters.

Two Italian planes are missing.

That was the news bulletin...

Good morning, Mrs. Pina.

I have a bargain for you, an oriental sapphire.

It was my mother's. It's unique and only 100,000 liras.

It's nice but I can't.

I'll make you a deal. Give me some now and the rest later.

I'd love to but I can't. These are hard times.

Let's say 50,000 now and you cancel my tab.

Don't insist, I really can't.

I managed to find some meat.

Good morning.

What is it?

I'm doing business with Miss Pina. Bye, Michele.

Goodbye.

It's a bargain, an oriental sapphire. The seven wonders!

Just look at it, I thought of you.

- It's beautiful. - 80,000 liras.

It's nice but I can't have it.

Sorry, but I can't.

- You're sure? - I'm sorry.

It's very nice, though.

It's a bargain, an oriental sapphire. The seven wonders!

It is a Jewish lady's.

She has to sell it, she wants 70,000 liras.

No thanks, I don't want it.

- We're closed until two. - I'm a friend of Miss Olga's.

- Open up, please. - She's eating.

- Tell her it's an old friend. - Who is it?

It's me.

Emanuele!

Olga!

Olga...

- How did you find me? - I met a friend of yours yesterday.

- Who? - Evelina.

But she left three weeks ago!

I wanted to come, but I've been so busy...

I can imagine.

So why did you come?

I wanted to see you. I thought you'd be happy.

Really?

- I was mistaken. - That's right.

- Goodbye, then. - Olga, it'll get cold.

- Madam Vera. - Emanuele!

What a surprise! How are you? What brings you to Genoa?

My house in Leghorn was bombed so I was sent here.

Why didn't you tell me Emanuele was here?

- Have you eaten? - Not yet.

- Join us for lunch. - Don't go to any trouble.

Nonsense, come on.

We have to catch up, I haven't seen you in years!

- Do you mind? - Me? She's the boss.

- All right. - Good man.

- Here. - Come with me.

Let him sit down. Olga!

- Hello, ladies. - Serve the food, please.

What have you been up to? Where have you been?

- Here and there. - Sometimes up, sometimes down.

Right, sometimes up, sometimes down.

But you're looking good, Madam Vera.

- I'm not bad. - How's business?

How do you think? The curfew's at nine.

- People are worried. - I know.

What about you? Apart from gambling.

I've almost given that up.

I'm an honest man now.

You don't say!

- I buy and sell jewels. - Like you used to.

No, not like that.

I sell these now.

How beautiful!

Let me see.

Nice.

Show me!

It's magnificent..

It's an oriental sapphire.

It's a good time to buy. People need to sell things.

The lira's losing value but not precious stones.

It's beautiful, but what does it cost?

Her husband's in Sicily.

- Well, 50,000 liras... - I'll buy it.

- You? - Won't you sell it to me?

But Madam Vera and this lady here liked it.

- If Olga likes it... - I'll give you a check.

- But... - Don't you trust me?

- No, it's not that. - What then?

Has it been long since you saw her?

- Yes. - Since Leghorn?

Yes, then we went to La Spezia...

She's changed a lot. She's always moody and argumentative.

But I love her like a sister.

You want Madam Vera to sign it?

Excuse me.

Emanuele!

Come in.

If Madame Vera or one of the girls had bought it,

would you have accepted the money?

So why not from me?

Why did you give me a check when you know it's fake?

It's 30,000 liras. It's all I have. Will it do?

Why are you doing this?

I don't know...

Or perhaps I do.

You really hurt me,

but I also had nice moments with you.

The only ones in my life.

I live in memory of those moments.

Go away!

Go away

and don't come back.

Ladies, come to the lounge.

10,000 in the bank.

Place your bets. Once again...

- Bank. - Nothing goes to the table.

Card.

Card, the bank has nine.

Good for the bank, it's baccarat.

19,500.

Place your bets.

- Bank. - Nothing to the table.

No.

The bank has eight.

There's still a bank.

Here's your money.

Take it.

Don't worry, it's nothing.

Stop!

Shoot!

AREA OVERRUN BY BANDITS

I thought I could trust you, but I was wrong!

You know how important it was to get Della Rovere alive!

What good is a dead body to us?

I gave you precise orders.

- I passed them on. - That's not good enough!

You should have seen that they were carried out correctly.

We didn't know where he'd show up, they must be somewhere.

You make good excuses, but you haven't learned to obey me!

You killed a worthy soldier as if he was a small-time criminal.

If I'd died like that, his death wouldn't have been much different.

What do you mean?

We could have exchanged him for one of the generals the partisans have.

We could have kept him hostage.

Your behavior is unforgivable!

Make sure there are no more mistakes.

The bodies of Della Rovere and his accomplice will be buried

far from Genoa. They must not be identified.

The person responsible will be sent to the Eastern front!

Yes, Sir!

Spread the word that we've arrested Della Rovere.

Yes, Sir.

Something has to happen...

Something will happen...

You can go.

May I?

Hello?

Hello? I'd like to speak to Mrs. Fassio.

Speaking.

Ah, this is Colonel Grimaldi.

Don't cry, I have good news.

I've taken your case to heart.

Really?

Don't worry, madam.

It's not an orthodox procedure.

What do you mean?

I know a guy...

Unfortunately for him, but luckily for us,

he's very venal so...

Really?

All right, see you at the bar.

See you soon.

Sorry I'm late.

- You were surprised I called? - Not at all.

Maybe you didn't expect me to call so soon.

But as soon as I left you and your mother-in-law yesterday,

I immediately started wondering how could help you.

I got to work and called my contacts.

I'm not boasting, but I know a lot of people...

And?

And so? Well, it's not simple.

It'll take time.

And lots of money.

You have no idea how venal the Germans are!

I can imagine.

Here's 100,000 liras. Will that do for now?

Of course! I'll deliver it right away.

You wait here.

I hope to bring you good news.

Don't despair, madam. Have faith.

Have faith in our friendship.

- Where's the phone? - On the right.

ROOM N.25

One moment, Colonel.

- Good morning. - Colonel, what a surprise!

What brings you here? Problems?

Yes, unfortunately.

Yesterday you said this was a necessary war and needed to be fought

and I said I agreed but that not everyone's like me.

Yes.

Well, a young relative, from my mother's side of the family...

He's a wretched young man

who doesn't share my ideas.

His father is a famous jurist, his mother was born a noblewoman.

He's descended from Garibaldi's men, but didn't hear the call of duty.

He didn't respond to his country's appeal

and he was nabbed... I mean, he was arrested

and will be deported to Germany. Quite rightly, of course.

Why didn't he choose to side with us?

He'd have been freed immediately.

- Why? - Yes, why?

- You want to know? - I'm curious.

Out of pride. He's an extremely proud young man.

He took after his great-grandfather. And he said,

"If I fight alongside our German colleagues,

it may look like I'm doing it to avoid the concentration camps

and I don't want our dear German colleagues to think...

I'm a coward."

- I'll see what I can do. - Can you talk to Captain Schranz?

I don't need to talk to anyone.

Come with me.

This way.

- What's the man's name? - Vittorio Borghesio.

Get me Vittorio Borghesio's file.

This says that in addition to being a deserter

he was involved in illegal trading.

If we believed everything the police said...

My dear man, I am the police.

Well, if all policemen were like you...

I don't like flattery.

Borghesio has to remain in Genoa.

He's to be transferred.

- Take him off the transfer list. - Yes, Sir.

The problem's been sorted, he's staying. Pleased?

You're lucky you're able to do some good!

It doesn't happen often, unfortunately.

I'll give his poor parents the news.

And let me thank you and bless you on their behalf.

I don't like being thanked or blessed.

- Do come by again. - I will.

Thanks, Colonel.

I've got good news!

I just need to make a call, I'll be right back.

Hello? Mr. Borghesio. It's me.

Hello?

Victory!

No, not Vittorio.

I mean, victory for Vittorio.

He won't be leaving and he may get released.

I'll tell you when I see you.

Give your wife the good news too.

No, I don't like being thanked or blessed.

See you soon, my friend.

Madam, your husband's fine.

I've found a way. It's long and complicated, but...

it leads to "freedom."

My husband was released, my dear Colonel.

He was executed yesterday behind the Staglieno cemetery.

Executed?

- Well, you... - Well, what?

- Come with us. - There must be a mistake!

How long have you known this man?

I met him three or four months ago.

I was a soubrette for a magazine in Mondovi.

Actually, I'm an actress

but times are hard and I need to work.

- And if you're talented... - Get to the point.

How did you meet this man?

I told you, in Mondovi.

I was going home with some friends after a show,

we'd been out to dinner

and that damned curfew had started.

A patrol car wanted to arrest us

and the Colonel intervened...

r What Colonel?1 l - Him.

Why, are you a Colonel too?

Later...

- I'll explain later. - Right.

Go on.

- He took us to our hotel. - Then?

Well, one thing led to another...

He made me leave my job.

- Go on. - He took me to Genoa.

He promised me the world. He said, "As soon as the South is freed..."

What's his line of business? Tell me the truth, for your own good.

I just know he got lots of phone calls

and he had a lot of visitors who brought parcels...

Parcels containing what?

Clothes, food... a lot of salami.

I ate so much salami I broke out in spots, look!

The lady can go.

That way.

Let them in.

Do you know this man?

Why don't you tell him?

Why don't you tell him you know me? I've got nothing to hide.

Let me explain.

I was wrong, but for a good reason, believe me.

It started with Mrs. De Dominicis.

Come here. She lives upstairs from me.

I met her one day. She was distraught, her son had been arrested.

Faced with a mother's anguish, what else could I do?

I said, "I'll try and help you."

- Isn't that right, madam? - Yes.

Then the others came to me.

I was overwhelmed with requests.

Their problems and suffering...

What else could I do?

I tried to help them, but it was never enough!

First, they wanted to find their loved ones,

then to send letters, then parcels.

Then they wanted me to stop them from being sent to Germany.

They even wanted me to have them released.

What could I do?

Put yourself in my shoes.

I tried to help.

Then they found out the terrible truth.

That they slept ten to a cell, standing up like horses,

that they were beaten and tortured,

that they were packed into carriages headed to Mathausen...

And I kept quiets

I didn't have the heart to tell them.

You'd rather I told you?

No!

I didn't want them to lose hope.

Only I knew the truth.

- Let them go. - Yes, Sir.

You may go, you're free.

Come with me.

Now tell me what you prefer.

You can go on trial before the German military court,

charged with sabotaging German war regulations

and for corruption of German officers.

Or you can be Emanuele Bardone,

son of the late Luigi and Teresa Camarano,

born in Sorrento on the 3rd of May, 1894,

and be charged with fraud,

aggravated by encroachment of your title.

Well, in the first case I'd be executed.

In the second, I'll get three years at most.

Title encroachment is a joke. Article 498

provides a fine of 1,000 to 10,000 liras.

But article 310 is a bit troublesome,

for crimes committed during times of war.

But this war has to end one day

and there'll be an amnesty like last time.

You were an officer in the cavalry.

You were expelled from the army for debts and embezzlement.

Then you were convicted four times

for fraud, deception, the possession and dealing of drugs,

and even for bigamy.

If you'd stayed in the army,

you'd be wearing a real Colonel's uniform today.

Maybe even a general's uniform.

Hageman, Bardone's accomplice, has confessed.

What?

The deputy chief Walter Hageman has confessed.

Punish him accordingly.

Here you are.

Listen, I want to help you.

Despite everything,

I like you.

- May I tell you something? - Go ahead.

I like you too, despite everything.

Bardone, I have a proposal for you.

General Della Rovere had a marvelous career!

He married a general's daughter.

His aunt, Marquise Barrino, died in '28. He was her only heir.

He's suspected of masonry and his uncle is a priest.

They make me laugh!

I worked for what I've got.

In the notes it says

he speaks good English, French and German.

I only know a few words of French.

It's a gamble.

You know what the cause of all my troubles is? Gambling.

I always lose and pay.

And I've never cheated.

I hope I won't be the one to prove you wrong.

This is no gamble, Colonel.

Come on.

Call the marshal!

I hope no one recognizes me here in San Vittore.

I doubt it, politicians aren't criminals.

I didn't mean them.

I was talking about the guards and chaplains.

They get sent from one prison to another.

Chaplains aren't allowed in the political sector.

I don't trust priests, they're all spies.

What about the others?

Right.

Whatever happens, call me right away.

May God help us.

Take care of this prisoner, but don't register him.

Don't take his fingerprints or any photographs.

Keep him under surveillance and in isolation.

Make sure you treat him with respect.

- Yes, Sir. -You can go.

Come in.

Follow me.

I may not see you again, so I'll thank you now

for the kindness you have shown

in this embarrassing situation.

Any German officer would have done the same.

I believe so.

Give my regards to Marshal Kesserling, when you see him.

Tell him that just because we're on different sides

does not mean I admire or respect him less.

I will.

Follow me, please.

Who's coming, the Shah of Persia?

- Where? - Basso Piave.

- When? - July, 1918.

"The Battle of Solstice."

- What unit? - 131st Avellino Brigade.

Great soldiers. Well done.

- Will you make my bed? - I'll call the attendant.

- Look after him. - All right.

Water, Sir!

Banchelli, come out.

- Make the bed. - Help me.

Don't worry, Sir. I'll get someone else.

It's cold, isn't it?

If you're staying here a while, ask to change cells.

The ground floor is really damp.

Thanks for telling me.

May I?

My name's Aristide Banchelli.

- The cotton merchant? - No. I wish!

I'm just a poor printer.

- Have you been here long? - Eight months.

Are you involved in politics?

We're all involved in politics here.

- General Della Rovere. - I'll be damned!

Sorry.

You've come from the outside, how are things going?

- Help him make the bed. - All right.

- Where are my things? - In the store, Sir.

- But I need them. - Tell me what you need.

My slippers, my pajama, some shirts and my woolen scarf.

-And my toiletries. - Right away, Sir.

General Della Rovere's here!

He's from Badoglio, in the South!

General Della Rovere's here!

D-E... L-L-A...

R-0... V-E... R-E.

- Della Rovere! - Wait.

P-U...

He's from Badoglio!

IT'S OVER FOR YOUR SON MARIO.

LIFE IS TRIVIAL

THE ENEMY WILL EXECUTE ME.

I'LL HOLD MY HEAD UP HIGH. YOUR SON WAS NOT SCARED.

MY NAME IS ATTILIO CASTELLINI.

WHOEVER READS THIS:

PLEASE INFORM MY FAMILY

THAT I HAVE BEEN EXECUTED.

GIVE MY LOVE TO EVERYONE. GOODBYE, MY DARLING!

I NEVER THOUGHT

IT WAS SO EASY TO DIE.

I brought what you asked for, please check.

Then sign, please.

Who were these prisoners?

Young partisans.

- Were they all executed? - All four of them.

- Were the families informed? - Yes, by the chaplain.

- Who is the chaplain? - Don Luigi Gavino.

But the Germans won't allow him into this wing.

Open up, Sir! Mantovani's losing blood.

Someone's losing blood, come down right away!

- Brigadier! - Hurry!

I can't feel his pulse!

Please hurry!

You, come with me.

They burst the lieutenant's lungs!

- Which lieutenant? - The one from the Alpine troops!

Why?

That spy he had arrested was found hanged.

- What's happening? - One of them is losing blood.

- What number? - 17.

You come too.

They're coming right away.

Here we are! Open up!

Murderers! Scoundrels!

Murderers!

- What's going on? - A prisoner's been taken sick.

- Who? - Montanaro, from the Alpine troops.

Murderers!

Cowards!

Murderers! Spies!

- Open the gate! - I can't, Excellency.

I order you to leave the door open!

The general wants the door left open.

- Leave it open. What's this? - Blood.

Get it cleaned up.

Clean it up immediately.

Sir!

Close the door!

Murderers!

- Savona, I didn't say a word. - Neither did I.

This is Calandrino, cell seven. Is anyone there?

Calandrino, Vendetta's brother.

See you outside.

General Della Rovere!

General Della Rovere!

Can you hear me?

Good evening, general.

My brother was a radio-telegrapher with you in Africa.

Micheluzzi Fausto.

You remember him?

General!

General Della Rovere, do you remember him?

Yes, I remember him.

Talk through the door, or I can't hear you.

Yes, I remember him.

General, when are they coming?

The Americans are taking their time!

Antonio!

I'm Riccio Orlando. I fell down the stairs.

- Are you hurt? - Yes.

Sir, I'm Lieutenant Carlo Maria Mida.

And I'm deputy chief Carlo Frassinetti.

We were arrested in La Spezia by the Germans and convicted.

At your service, Sir.

I'm General Della Rovere.

Buck up, guys!

- Good evening. - Where's Fabrizio?

He'll be here on the 5:30pm train. Come with me.

- Any news? - He was taken to San Vittore today.

He was accompanied by Colonel Muller.

He didn't go through registration.

He's on the ground floor, in the fifth section, cell 39.

- Are we sure it's him? - Of course, so are the Germans.

- How did they recognize him? - They were expecting him.

- They have spies everywhere. - That doesn't surprise me.

- They were our allies 10 months ago. - We were theirs.

That doesn't change anything.

We should have freed him on the journey from Genoa to Milan.

- He might have gotten killed. - We have to contact him.

It won't be easy,

the guards we know have been moved.

But we have to make contact with him.

Where's Fabrizio?

The station is only ten minutes away.

- Maybe he had no transport. - Annamaria's meeting him on her bike.

- Maybe he didn't leave. - He'd have told us.

- It's late. - Here's Annamaria.

Here's Annamaria!

- Where's Fabrizio? - He was arrested.

- Where? - Near Piazza Castello.

We were caught in a raid. He tried to escape.

But his bike went on the tracks and he fell.

The fascists locked him up in a truck with other prisoners.

Were there many prisoners?

About eighty, three trucks full..

- Do you know where they took them? - No. I followed the trucks.

I saw a bag fall from the one Fabrizio was in.

No one noticed. I took it and came here.

- Good work. - They'll be at the Cantore barracks.

- They usually take them there. - We'll find out.

They've arrested two of them, the general then Fabrizio!

But they wanted the general, they got Fabrizio by chance.

They don't know him, no one knows him.

At worst, he'll be sent to a work camp. We'll free him.

They may free him tonight. His papers are in order.

Let's hope so, but we should expect the worst.

First we have to find him.

Then we must watch the barracks for any movement.

- Who's in charge of that sector? - Virgilio.

Tell him to be careful.

Let's go.

You go on ahead.

- What is it? - Six new prisoners!

Send them in.

Why have you been brought here at this hour?

My name's Pietro Valeri, I was caught in a raid.

They picked out nine of us and brought us here. I don't know why.

Why at this hour?

- Wait, I'll help you. - Thanks.

Don't worry, they'll bring everything.

What is it?

Nine new prisoners, they were caught in a raid.

Who are they?

Watch out!

Here you are.

Dear Bardone,

I'm giving you the chance to earn what I promised you,

freedom is the reward.

Last night, nine men were brought into San Vittore.

I know, so I heard.

One of them is named Fabrizio.

That's the code name for the leader of the resistance.

We're sure Fabrizio is one of them.

- You have to identify him. - Me?

General Della Rovere's first task when he arrived

was to meet Fabrizio

to coordinate the Partisan's war plans.

Fate wanted you to meet up here.

Right, but...

How will I recognize him?

He'll make himself known.

And when I know who he is, you want me to report him?

You just need to tell me who he is.

In Genoa you told me

I had to be a decoy.

Now you want me to be the firing line.

But for this duty

you will get a million liras and a pass to Switzerland.

Your task will be made easier.

Two of the nine men will be freed immediately.

They really are who they say.

They work for the ministry.

You'll have seven men to choose from.

Take him back to his cell.

Soup!

I'm the barber.

If you need me, my name's Banchelli.

Thanks, I hope it won't be necessary. I shouldn't be here.

Soup!

Young man...

- Painter! - Do you mean me?

You can't recognize Castel dell'Ovo.

"Zi1 Teresa" and "La bersagliera" are missing too.

Great discovery!

Ignore him... we painters work from imagination.

And even Giotto's bell tower is missing in Florence.

Open up! Open up!

Open up! Open up!

Come on, drop those bombs!

I'm not scared!

Open up!

Open up!

Get them to be quiet!

Open up, they must calm down!

Open up!

Friends...

this is General Della Rovere.

Show some dignity and self restraint.

You're men!

Show these swines

you're not scared of dying.

They should be scared!

Every bomb that is dropped

brings them closer to the end

and us closer to freedom.

- What do you need? - Two packs of cigarettes.

- What about you? - Some soap.

Good morning, Sir.

Good morning, my friend.

Your coffee.

- Real coffee? - Yes, the chief sent it.

He wanted to come in person

but he's not allowed in the political sector.

The Germans don't trust him.

- Do they trust you? - No.

But they need us. There aren't many of them,

so whatever you need...

I need a barber, is there one?

Of course.

- I'll call Banchelli. - Ah, Banchelli.

- Good morning, general. - Good morning.

- You're a barber too? - If you trust me.

I do.

I hope you won't be sorry, I don't do this often.

May I?

Give that to me.

Did you sleep well, Sir?

Yes.

- Is your bed soft? - It's not bad.

Our beds are rock hard.

But I don't care, I sleep less...

but I live more.

The German military court has sentenced me to death.

They say I blew up a train full of ammunition.

But it seems they've forgotten about me.

I've been waiting for three months to be executed.

Sorry.

Maybe they can't find another barber.

Sorry.

"The wind blows from the west."

When did you get this?

This morning.

Who from?

Who from?

- The barber, Mr. Banchelli. - Damn, I know him!

He'd rather get killed than talk!

What should I do?

Calm down. Reply with a note.

Tell him you don't trust him. Force Fabrizio to reveal himself.

Tell him, "We'll wait for the wind to die down."

Give the note to Banchelli and wait.

My wife visited me.

Poor woman, she brought our son too.

He's so grown-up!

I know he's my son, but he really is handsome.

What'll happen to them? I won't see them again.

Don’t throw it too high!

Next lot!

- There are six of them. - Good.

Stop!

Come on!

How come a man who's spent so many years in prison

can't even send a note without getting caught?

Now our plan's ruined.

I'11 have to make Banchelli talk.

I hate doing these things.

Put him in a single cell.

Yes, Sir.

Come in.

Have a seat.

- Cigarette? - No, thanks.

My dear Banchelli, you're sentenced to death.

Your days are numbered.

I'm giving you the chance to be spared.

General Della Rovere told me he gave you a note.

This one.

Tell me who it was for

and you have my word

I'll get your sentence reduced to 30 years in prison.

You know the war won't last that long.

I know nothing.

Someone gave me the note when I came in from the yard.

Yes, and you hid it in your shoe.

I was going to give it back to the general.

Banchelli, you're no idiot and neither am I!

I know the note wasn't for you.

The general was using you

to get it to someone else.

Who?

I don't know. He didn't tell me.

- Why don't you ask him? - Why are you all so stubborn?

You know we have ways of making you talk!

- You know that! - I know.

But a man can't tell you what he doesn't know.

I have a wife and son. I saw them today.

I'm all they've got.

Don't you think I'd tell you if I knew?

I'm asking you for the last time. Don't force me to use methods

that go against my principles.

I wish I could, believe me.

Let's go, Banchelli.

- Where is she? - Outside.

Show her in.

- Colonel Muller? - That's me.

Have a seat, countess.

You must be surprised to see me.

In a certain sense.

His Eminence advised me to come to you.

He said you would understand and help me.

Within the limits of my duty, of course.

Let me ask you a question.

The information we have

assured us you and your children were in Switzerland.

I must assume you have returned to Italy.

Don't worry,

I won't charge you with illegal entry.

I was just asking

to pay tribute to your courage and devotion.

I'm just doing what I have to.

I won't ask you to intervene in favor of my husband.

It would be useless and my husband wouldn't agree.

But I came to express

my desire to see him, even just for a few moments.

Believe me,

I'm very sorry I can't fulfil your request.

But prisoners aren't allowed visitors

during the inquiry.

I didn't ask for a visit,

but just to see him for a few moments.

Countess, I understand how you feel

and I'll prove it.

You want to see your husband? All right, you can talk to him too.

But think about it first.

General Della Rovere has been charged with serious crimes.

He's calm and unperturbed, acting like the soldier he is,

I assure you.

You know what gives him strength and courage?

Not merely the thought that he's done his duty as a soldier,

but also the fact that his loved ones are far away and safe.

So I ask you,

do you think that seeing you for a few moments behind a screen,

worried and in risk of danger,

will help him?

Don’t you think he will despair?

I'm talking to you as a friend.

I really admire the general. I like him

and I regret the war sees us on different sides.

Follow my advice and don't visit him.

It would upset him greatly, I'm sure.

Let him think you're safe

with his children.

Write him a letter, if you want.

I'll tell him His Eminence, the cardinal, gave it to me.

His Eminence will forgive this small lie.

I give you my word your letter won't be opened.

Maybe you're right.

If you want,

you could send him some clothes

and some food.

The food here is..'

pretty bad.

Thanks.

Banchelli!

Damn them!

General, I didn't say a word

but next time I might have to.

It was terrible!

Why didn't you talk?

Why should you pay for someone else?

General...

What am I saying? I don't know what I'm saying anymore!

General...

Do you know who Fabrizio is?

No.

Drink some.

Banchelli, have some soup. You'll feel better.

Banchelli...

Banchelli... Banchelli!

Banchelli's killed himself!

Banchelli's dead! Open up!

I want to speak to Colonel Muller!

Banchelli's dead!

Banchelli's dead.

It's your fault!

If you hadn't been so stupid,

they wouldn't have found the note

and we'd know who Fabrizio is.

But now we've lost another man!

Go!

I'm not going back in there.

Everyone will know now,

that Banchelli was tortured, that he killed himself...

They won't believe I'm General Della Rovere.

They'll kill me! Maybe the guards will kill me.

They're on their side!

None of this will happen.

You'll go back and be welcomed like a victim

and like a hero.

Take him away.

What...

They tortured General Della Rovere!

They tortured General Della Rovere!

Murderers! Murderers!

Damn them! They didn't even spare you!

They don't respect anyone.

They're worse than the devil.

A drop of water, Excellency.

Drink slowly, or you'll make yourself ill.

There's a letter and a parcel for you, Sir.

A letter for me?

Open it.

It's a photograph. It must be your wife and children.

What does it say?

I can't, you read it.

It's from Geneva.

"Dear Gianni, I hope these few words get to you.

Our consul told me of your arrest.

I've told the boys.

They were very good, they didn't cry.

I didn't cry either.

We read the letter you wrote after the 8th of September

and we remember your words:

When you know not which path to take,

choose the most difficult one.

The boys are fine. They're doing well at school.

I'm happy for them.

At all times, in every situation, whatever may happen,

we're worthy of you, my darling.

We pray for you and you are in our thoughts and hearts.

God cannot permit that we never see each other again.

The boys and I send you all our love.

Bianca Maria."

Show me the photograph.

They're handsome boys, Sir.

They killed the party secretary in Milan.

Oh, God! What'll happen to us?

They killed the party secretary in Milan.

They killed the party secretary in Milan.

They killed the party secretary in Milan.

They killed the party secretary in Milan.

- Camerata Gaetano D'Accosta. - Yes, Sir!

We have to carry out a house-to-house search.

Milan is a busy city,

searches and deportations would disturb the productive rhythm.

But we cannot allow

our men to be ambushed in the center of Milan.

The Partisans are at war.

Reprisals make the situation worse.

So you want us to do nothing

and wait to be killed?

If it were German soldiers, you'd think differently.

Maybe I'm not thinking.

I've informed the Supreme Command on the Southwest front,

the Wehrmacht Supreme Command and the Fuhrer.

I'm awaiting orders.

Colonel Muller's office.

It's Haftisch.

All right.

Colonel,

the Wehrmacht supreme command.

Colonel Muller speaking.

Thank you. Good morning, Marshal.

Yes, I understand.

He doesn't agree.

He says reprisals have the opposite effect.

So it will be.

Make a list of twenty men.

The execution will be tomorrow at dawn

in the prison courtyard.

Goodbye, Colonel.

Goodbye.

The list is ready, you want to see it?

- Why are there only five Jews? - The others were deported yesterday.

There are only women and children left.

Add General Della Rovere to the list

and the nine men we arrested yesterday.

But they're in custody.

Just do as I say.

Here's the list.

But there are ten names here.

Remove Oliviero Scotti, he was released yesterday.

Colonel Muller's office.

It's the Archbishop's office, Sir.

I'm afraid he's not here.

If they're really taking us to Germany,

why couldn't we bring our things?

You're not being investigated.

This is just a routine check.

- They're verifying our identity. - That's what I said.

Damn it, we've been here another night!

Admit it, you were starting to get worried,

but no one wanted to say it.

They'll send us to work.

They'll send us to Germany.

In that case, we'd have been given our things.

Seeing we haven't, we'll be back here soon.

- It's the General. - So we're not going to Germany.

Why? Can't he work too?

The Germans don't give a damn about Italian generals!

Right?

Maybe we'll work on some railway or road near here.

They must need laborers after all the bombings.

And you're not under investigation.

General, you have to help us.

What can I do?

I told you, we're being sent to work.

There were ten of us before and we looked after each other.

Now there's twenty of us.

The General couldn't care less about us!

Don't you get it? He's a hero...

it's his fault we're here.

And those like you who want to act the hero.

You could have been spared, but not you!

You thought you'd win the war

by dropping a few bombs and killing eight Germans?

I'm not to blame, I didn't do anything!

It's a general's duty to be a hero, that's what you're paid for.

In fact, I paid you. I happen to be a taxpayer.

It's not such a big deal.

We'll work a few days, then...

Open up, I want to get out!

-Shame on you! - Why? Because I don't want to die?

- I didn't do anything! - Neither did we.

- But you're Jews. - Right.

Calm down. You're all worked up, you say you did nothing...

That's true, I did nothing.

That's the problem. You did nothing.

This war's lasted five years.

Millions of men have died. Hundreds of cities have been destroyed.

And you did nothing.

You should have done something.

You should have taken sides.

You wanted to be in the midst of everything and do nothing,

only worry about your business!

You told me you profited

while others killed each other. That's too easy!

Now I see why you don't want to be executed

without having done anything.

- What did you do? - Not much.

But I carried out my duty, because that's what matters,

carrying out your duty no matter what happens.

If everyone had done that, maybe we wouldn't be here.

Jewish brothers,

there's no hope for us now.

Let us pray to God.

Almighty Father...

I never thought I'd see you here.

I waited a long time for the tuner to arrive.

I wouldn't say I'm a bank clerk,

but I'm not much better.

I'm not a soldier,

but I found myself in charge of thousands of men.

I was able to cope with such an enormous responsibility

because I believed I was fighting for a better world.

Will that be true for the others?

I think so.

Excuse me, General. I want to send my wife a message.

But there's no pen or paper.

I want to ask her to forgive me for having abandoned her.

For leaving her and my children alone.

I want to ask forgiveness for causing her suffering

and to be strong.

I want to tell her I've always loved her and the children,

even though I didn't show it.

And I want to tell her to get my money back from the mechanic

and that I gave the bike to Giulia's brother.

She must ask for it back, so she can sell it.

And I want to tell her, that when this is over,

to take the children to see my parents

so they can meet their grandparents.

Piperno Samuele.

Fontani Mario.

Albertini Luciano.

Sinigallia Leone.

Pasquali Antonio.

Foi Davide.

Marconi Paolo.

Leti Abele.

Funaro Davide.

Di Castro Giuseppe.

Giovanni Braccioforte Della Rovere.

Go.

Well? Did he talk?

Do you know who he is?

- Who? - You know, Fabrizio.

Is he one of them?

He must’ve talked to you.

During a night like tonight, one confides in others.

What do you know?

Have you ever spent a night like this?

Did he talk?

Do you know who he is?

Give me a pencil, please.

Please deliver these few words

to Countess Della Rovere.

Open it.

Open it!

MY LAST THOUGHTS ARE FOR YOU LONG LIVE ITALY

Open it.

What are you doing?

Open it.

Look!

What are you doing?

They're going to die!

Gentlemen, at this special time,

we remember our families, our country,

and His Majesty the King.

Long live Italy!

We got it wrong, Sir.

Ten men were supposed to be executed.

I was wrong, Lieutenant.

I was wrong.

THE END