Original subtitles

Naples under the Kiss of Fire

Based on the novel by A. Bailly

Directed by Augusto Genina

Pierre!

Increase the pressure.

Jean!

- Increase the pressure. - Fine.

Don't panic, it's me.

Happy?

The journey's over. No more worries about being discovered.

Now I'm in Naples, nothing else matters.

You're not on shore yet. There's still danger.

- So... you're going to leave me now? - I have to.

You've been great, taking risks for me.

I'm used to travelling 1st class, though.

But you've been happy here, right?

When I think of the dangers I've escaped... earthquakes in Panama,

revolution in Mexico, with machine guns in the windows.

When I picked you up, what a state you were in!

My home had been set on fire, my jewellery stolen,

and my husband, seeing my despair, killed himself!

- You already told me. - I can never say it enough.

You're going to help me get ashore, right? You promised.

- And what if I wanted to keep you? - I'd scream!

- They'd arrest you. - You too!

- Yeah, right. - I'd tell them you hid me on board.

- You'd do that? - I wouldn't think twice.

Miss...

Miss... miss...

Hey, miss...

- What? What is it? - Is this your bag?

- Oh, yes. It's mine. - I found it on the floor.

It must have slipped off while I was sleeping. Thank you.

You're welcome.

- Are you staying there? - Why? Is it forbidden?

- No. But they're locking the church. - So?

So you have to leave.

Just my luck. Too bad...

- Goodbye. Thank you. - Goodbye, miss.

- Here are the keys. - Thank you, M. Michel.

What are you doing there?

Trying to fix my heel.

- You broke your heel? - As I was leaving the church.

- How can I walk now? - Oh, it's not a disaster.

- Let me have a go. - With pleasure.

It's my only pair, and I have to walk all night.

Most people go home at night.

- Sure, if I had one. - You don't have a home?

- You're not from around here? - No.

I arrived this morning. I've come from California.

- From California? - Yes.

Oh, the troubles I had there!

My poor mother died of grief after the death of my poor father.

I don't know why I'm bothering you with this.

No, on the contrary.

- So you're an orphan? - Yes.

I spent all my savings on the journey. I travelled 3rd class, like an emigrant.

Oh, there were opportunities, if I'd been interested.

- The lieutenant, in particular... - The lieu... lieutenant?

Yes, but I refused his advances in memory of my fiancé.

- You're engaged? - I was.

He died falling off a horse.

- He was a Mexican picador. - A Mexican picador!

He wanted to become a bullfighter because they earn more.

We would have been rich. That was his dream.

He wanted us to honeymoon in Italy.

But fate decided that I come alone.

You poor thing.

- Waiter! - In a moment, madam!

Assunta!

- See to that lady. - Yes, aunty.

Waiter, see to that lady.

- Hello, Assunta. - Hello, Mario.

- Oh, your tie's crooked. - You see how I need you?

- Is that why you love me? - No. I love you, plain and simple.

- Me and how many others? - Just the ones in your imagination.

- That's a lot, you know. - There's only one!

- Is this where Mario sings? - Yes, sir. He's about to begin.

Thank you.

Caterina! Caterina!

Why do you say these bitter words to me?

Why do you speak to my heart and torment me, Caterina?

Don't forget that I gave you my heart, Caterina.

Don't forget.

Caterina, Caterina, why come to me and say

these words that torment me?

You don't think about my pain.

You don't think about it,

you don't care.

Heart, ungrateful heart,

you have taken my life.

Everything is gone,

and you don't think about it any more.

Everything is gone,

and you don't think about it any more.

- Hey, Mario, see who just arrived? - Yes.

- I thought you and Sylvia were over. - With women, it's never over.

Come on. One...

Sylvia won't quit. Just be patient, Assunta.

From Taranto to Naples,

the most beautiful song,

which stupefies and seduces,

and drives all hearts to madness...

Its disturbing rhythm

bewitches and beguiles lovers

into a whirlwind of joy and passion!

Beautiful Tarantella! Yes, it's you, your je-ne-sais-quoi.

Mad melody that drives hearts wild!

Ah, Tarantella of love! Ah, you ensnare us forever!

Tarantella!

Come tonight or I'll do something crazy.

Tambourines and violins

play your melodies of joy.

Are you woman or devil,

you who intoxicates us?

Stronger than Vesuvius on fire,

you carry us away in your joyful ardour.

And like madmen, we follow you everywhere!

Beautiful Tarantella! Yes, it's you, your je-ne-sais-quoi.

Mad melody that drives hearts wild!

Ah, Tarantella of love! Ah, you ensnare us forever!

Tarantella!

- Why did you lie to me? - I didn't.

You said it was over with Sylvia.

It's not my fault if she won't let go.

- You like that, right? - No, it's exhausting.

Take a rest, then.

Why are you so jealous? You know I love you and no-one else.

- You say that, and yet... - I told you, that's all behind me.

- Since I met you, I... - Yes, yes, you're right and I'm wrong!

Are you coming?

- Good night, Mario. - Good night, Mme Thérèsa.

Good night, Francesco. Don't stay up late, at your age.

At my age? I'm still in the green of youth.

Maybe with a fresh coat of paint.

Good night, you two, good night.

- Are you coming, Assunta? - In a moment.

- Only a moment, though. - Yes, aunty.

Good night, Mario.

You're not angry? - No.

- You believe me? - Yes.

Really?

Liar! Hypocrite! Cheat!

So this is why you wouldn't meet me!

Don't trust him. He sings sweetly, but his kisses are false.

- Be quiet! - Please don't shout.

All right, but only for your sake. You're a victim like me.

When I think how I loved you for 6 months, like a madwoman!

I was blind, dumb and stupid for loving such an imbecile.

- So you're over me now? - I want her to know the truth.

He's proposed marriage, right? He's promised to change?

- He's incapable of changing. - Don't listen to her.

Stay out of this! Everything I've said is true!

- And that's not all... - Thank you, I don't need your warnings.

I know Mario better than you, and I won't let you judge him.

Oh, if that's how you feel... Goodbye!

You deserve your fate. Don't say I didn't warn you.

- Assunta! Assunta! - Yes, I'm coming!

- Assunta! - Oh, no. Not after what she said.

- She's crazy. - She loved you.

You said you wouldn't listen to her.

Because I was ashamed. I didn't want her to humiliate me more.

She only said what you knew already. It's true, I used to be like that.

She's angry because I've changed. It's you who changed me.

You don't believe I want to marry you? I'll ask your mother and aunt right now.

Why are you smiling? I'm serious.

Asking for my hand in the middle of the night doesn't sound very serious.

- Better to do it tomorrow. - And if your aunt says yes?

I might not say no.

- Is that your bed? - No, my friend's.

What'll he say when he finds me in his bed?

Nothing. He can use my bed. I'll take the couch.

- Is he handsome? - He's nice, yes.

- Are you sure he won't be upset? - He's my friend, he'll understand.

It's not exactly California, but we get the sun here, too.

- This room is gloomy in the evening. - Not at all!

It's all I have, and I offer it gladly.

You don't need to apologise. I'm better here than in the street.

The bed feels good. It's been ages since I slept in a bed.

- There are no beds in 3rd class? - Not on the Mexican boats.

You poor thing. So young and already so alone.

- How you must have suffered! - Oh, yes.

- Would you like me to leave? - No. Why?

Er... no reason. Yes, men can be so wicked.

- When I think... - When you think what?

Oh, nothing. I... I mean that a woman like you should be happy.

Tell me about it! Would you undo this pin?

With pleasure.

My life is like this slip... You need a pin to hold the pieces together.

- You're tickling me! - I swear I didn't mean to.

You're very sensitive.

Oh, when you've suffered what I've suffered, sensitivity...

Damn, there's a run in my stocking!

- I'll buy you a new pair tomorrow. - I'm leaving tomorrow.

- Oh, why? - Just because.

- Don't you like it here? - Not yet.

- If you stay, I'll buy you a hat. - I'd prefer a dress.

- I'll buy you a dress, too. - You're kind.

- By the way, what's your name? - Lolita.

Lolita? That's a Spanish name.

My family was Spanish. They moved to California during the Gold Rush.

Oh, the Gold Rush.

- What's your name? - Michel.

- What do you do? - Musician. I'm an organist.

- At the church? - Yes.

And I play double bass in a jazz band.

- The double bass? - Yes...

Oh, I know. That's great. You're funny.

It's an odd combination. Holy water and the devil. A bit like me.

- Oh, if you knew... - Let's talk tomorrow. I'm tired.

- Good night, Michel. - Good night.

- Sleep well. - Thanks. I'll try.

Good night.

Still here? Aren't you playing tonight?

- No. Not tonight. - Did you get fired or just lazy?

No, Something else came up.

You can tell me about it later. Come here... Come over here.

- What's got into you? - I'm happy!

- Is this a joke? - I'm getting married!

- You? - You're surprised?

Yes. I'm surprised you found someone brave enough.

- Who is it? - Who do you think? Assunta!

- No! She agreed? - Yes. I just left her.

- Already? - Don't clown around. I'm serious.

I've spoken to her. Tomorrow I'll ask for her hand.

- And you're going to ask for me. - Me? Why me?

Because you're my father, my brother, my godfather, my family!

- Is that all? - My friend, too.

- Oh, right. - So do you approve of this marriage?

You can't imagine how happy I am. For you, of course.

But if you get married, you'll be living with your wife?

In theory, yes. What a question!

I ask because...

- What'll happen to me? - You think I'd leave you?

I've known you since childhood. You'll come and live with us.

- Really? - I just said so.

- It's good to have a pal like you. - Of course, idiot! Good night.

- Hold on, I've something to tell you. - Make it quick. I'm tired.

Well, er, after you left this morning... Just as you'd gone out...

- Well, er... you see... - Spit it out! It is so hard?

- Yes and no. - Fine. Tell me tomorrow.

No, Mario! There's a woman in your bed!

- A woman? Which? And you let her in? - No, it's not someone you know.

What do you mean? She's here for you? You brought a woman here?

- I didn't bring her. She came with me. - It's the same thing!

How about that! Hey, can I see your conquest?

Yes, but be quiet, she's sleeping. Wait, wait!

- How do you find her? - How did you find her?

- In the church. - A gift from God!

Don't joke. She was heaven sent.

- She came straight from paradise. - No, from California.

She's a poor kid... an orphan. She's known nothing but misfortune.

Her name's Lolita.

Come on. Let her sleep.

- Come on. - Wait, let me look at her.

Listen, Mario...

Listen... you're not going to start that again.

Promise me you won't touch her.

It's stupid, but I brought her here out of pity, and now I want her to stay.

- You can't be serious. - Is it so surprising?

- No. Women are funny that way. - I don't want you to think about her.

I can't get women by singing.

I know you'll laugh, but I think she could be the woman of my life.

How can she be? You barely know her.

So what? You don't know her, either.

I've only one life, I don't meet many women.

Whereas you live multiple lives, with a woman in each one.

So, please... swear that you won't touch her.

What should I swear on? As I'm engaged, I'll swear on my love.

No, on our friendship.

I swear on our friendship.

How beautiful is a sunny day,

the air serene after a storm,

fresh air like a celebration...

A sunny day is a beautiful thing.

But another sun,

more beautiful still,

my very own sun,

stands before you.

My sun...

Are you crazy, singing at this hour?

- Why? - You'll wake her up.

- Who? - The girl!

- Oh, the girl! I can't do anything now. - Do what you like, but don't sing.

Being woken by music isn't so bad. Unless you're the one who's singing.

Why? I can sing, too.

I play the double bass, but my real talent is singing.

- Go on, then. - With pleasure.

I haven't sung till now so as not to make you look bad.

- No, really? - Certainly!

Your voice is not bad, but that's all you have.

- And what do you have? - I have my voice, and feelings, too.

Too many feelings, I'm bursting with feelings. Listen...

- Ready? - In a moment. I'm preparing my voice.

My own sun stands before you.

My own sun stands before you.

My sun, my own sun

stands before you, stands before you.

Good morning!

Hello, my love. I have good news.

I dreamt about you, and my dreams are never wrong.

- So, it's settled. I'll stay. - Oh, that's a good idea.

- Who's this? - My best friend. Mario...

Allow me to present my best friend, Lolita. Er, Mario. Lolita.

Delighted.

You're waiting for Mario? Getting impatient?

Yes, he should be here by now.

- Perhaps he's scared. - That's not like him.

But it's the first time he's asked for someone's hand.

- What's the time? - About 11. You've got the whole day.

- Yes, but... - But what?

My aunt's moody today. If he doesn't hurry up, she may turn stubborn.

I know what she's like. A refusal would be almost certain.

You can swear on anything you like. I'm not buying your rotten tomatoes.

- Understood? - Oh, listen...

- What do you think of these tomatoes? - Beautiful. Like peaches!

I prefer tomatoes that look like tomatoes.

She likes real tomatoes. Listen, I've something important to say.

- Yes, aunty, very important! - Can we talk alone?

- Yes, but make it quick. - Fine, quick.

Now then... what's this about?

I've come to ask for the hand of your niece Assunta.

- My niece? You want her hand? - No, I already have what I want.

No, I'm here on behalf of my godson, your singer, Mario.

Mario wants to marry Assunta? Assunta? He's crazy!

No, he's in love.

- He's penniless. - He has something better. His voice.

- I pay him for that. - Now you can get it for free.

Do you know what my niece's dowry will be?

No.

I'll give her 20 acres of vineyard on the slopes of Vesuvius.

- And what will he provide? - His voice.

I'll give her a house with 6 guest rooms where it only rains from the west.

- And him? - His voice!

7 gold necklaces, of which 3 are silver.

- And him? - His voice!

- Venetian lace. And him? - His voice!

- Again? - Always!

One day she'll inherit my restaurant. And him?

- What will he give in return? - His voice, more than ever!

That's when it'll be most useful. You've got your kitchen,

- but without Mario, there's no harmony. - What if he gets a cold?

- What if your vineyard withers? - What if his voice breaks?

- What if your house burns down? - What if my clients don't like him?

It would mean they've gone deaf.

No, no and no! I won't give my niece to a restaurant singer.

You're anxious, right? Anxious, nervous and impatient.

I can tell. You're pretending to tune your mandolin,

but you only have one thought in your head: Assunta.

You're not very talkative.

I don't know if love is blind, but it's certainly made you dumb.

You think I'm being indiscreet.

You think that this foreigner should mind her own business.

You're right. My instinct is to make fun of you.

Not out of malice. I'm incapable of that.

But out of melancholy. It's true...

Other people's love affairs always make me uneasy.

- Have you suffered much? - Oh...

- As much as that? - More than that.

If you knew what I've been through... From Santiago, I fled Chile,

crossed Argentina, then caught the boat that brought me to Naples.

- Who's pursuing you? - Memory.

The memory of my dead love.

Yes, I spent the happiest years of my life there,

with a man I loved and who adored me. He killed himself.

He killed himself out of love for me in a fit of madness.

Why? You said you loved him.

Oh, I did nothing wrong. It was because of him that he killed himself.

- Because of him? - He felt he didn't love me enough.

He was in despair because he couldn't love me more.

He'd reached the limit of love.

He killed himself so that he could go beyond love, even further still...

Moving, isn't it?

I've never been a better diplomat.

- Was my aunt stubborn? - Like a rock!

- What did she say? - She talked about you.

- And you? - I told her about Mario and you.

How happy you'd be as his wife.

Other women love him for themselves, but you love Mario for himself.

I'll love him all my life.

Mario!

- Well? - I was brilliant!

- She agreed? - I'll say one thing...

When I arrived, she was Assunta's aunt.

When I left, she was Mario's mother-in-law.

- Happy? - I'm speechless!

This is no time to lose your golden voice!

- Oh, my friend... I... - You're just lost for words.

She waiting downstairs. Go on, you fool. Help her choose a wedding dress.

I'm coming!

He truly looks like a man in love.

- It's nice to be in love. - Is his fiancée pretty?

Exquisite. I think she'll make him happy.

So it's settled. Those 4 dresses and the skirt.

Very good, miss. And this wedding dress?

Yes, but I'd like it in satin,

so that I can have it made into an afternoon dress later. Understood?

- When will you need them? - In a month at most.

I don't know if we can get the material by then. I'll find out.

Fine.

- Mario! - Yes?

Kiss me. I'm so happy.

- I've been longing for this day. - Really?

- You'll be wearing this? - Yes. Do you like it?

Oh, I don't know much about this. I do like the train.

- No, that's the veil. - Oh, the veil.

Pretty, isn't it?

Would you leave us alone for a moment? I have something to tell her.

Already?

I never thought it would be so hard to say "I love you" without singing.

Assunta, I love you. And I'm happy.

- We can make up your order in 1 month. - Very good.

My little one, my little one!

Your face is my sunshine.

My little one, my little one!

[Hums]

My little one, my little one!

All my life will be only for you.

Little one!

- It's nice of you to sing for me. - I was singing for me.

When someone sings about love, they shouldn't be getting married.

Why are you so interested in marriage and my future?

- You really want to know? - It would amuse me.

Because I like you.

- You don't seem amused. - On the contrary. It makes me laugh.

You're beautiful. You could be 1000x more so. I still wouldn't touch you.

- It's not forbidden, you know. - I prefer Michel's friendship.

Oh, I thought it was your "love" for Assunta that was holding you back.

It's love first and foremost, then friendship.

2 reasons for making a small sacrifice.

- That's funny. - Yes, 2 feelings you don't understand.

No.

No, what's funny now, and slightly ridiculous, is the idea I had of you.

I thought you were a Don Juan, but you're really just an old husband.

It's hilarious!

It's lovely! I don't understand why Michel didn't want me to come.

Because he loves you, and wants you for himself.

- I can be faithful sometimes. - I hope so for him.

- Goodnight. - You're not staying?

Michel only asked me to bring you here. I have another rendez-vous.

- Assunta? - You're clever. Nothing escapes you.

I'm not being clever. It's something else.

- Does that bother you? - No, I don't care. Goodbye.

Don't leave without giving me a dance!

- If that's what you want... - Very much!

- It is him! - Where?

- There! Look! - With the brunette.

- Is it really him? - Yes, I saw him the other night.

- Let's ask him to sing! - Oh, yes!

Wait! Let him finish the dance.

Let's go!

- A song, Mario! - Please!

- For our pleasure! - Just a little one!

We won't take no for an answer!

What do you want me to sing?

"Love song"

This evening, in the moonlight,

I sing with fervour...

in order to tell you, my brunette,

all the words that trouble my heart.

There is nothing sweeter than a love song.

You never want it to end.

When I love you, my divine,

then am I truly rich.

Your teeth are my fine pearls,

and your eyes are my diamonds.

There is nothing sweeter than a love song.

You never want it to end.

You sang better than usual tonight.

- Even though she wasn't here. - But you were here.

You joke, but there's a kernel of truth. You were watching me the whole time.

- You have a good imagination. - No, good eyesight.

And a certain sense of observation.

You were supposed to be leaving, but you're still here.

- Because they asked me to sing. - Why are you always lying?

I've no reason to lie. You know how I feel about you.

Fine. Let's say I was wrong.

It doesn't happen often, though.

- Have you finished? - Sorry?

- Finished making eyes at that fool? - Jealous?

- No, but I won't allow... - What?

- Michel is my friend! - Oh, it's because of him?

- Yes! - Ah, but Michel isn't my friend.

Well, he's mine! Are you done staring at her?

Oh, excuse me. I'll be done when she is. I'm very polite, sir!

She smiled and I smiled back. I have manners.

I'll teach you manners!

- Where were you? I waited all evening. - Michel insisted that I stay.

- Really? - Yes.

- You weren't alone, though? - Oh, that's right. I was with Lolita.

- Who's Lolita? - She's Michel's big crush.

Imagine him in love! She's some poor girl from Santiago, I think.

He's casting his net wide. But why didn't you tell me about her?

- I didn't think you'd be interested. - What's she like?

Not bad. Michel's crazy about her. He wants to marry her!

- And her? Is she crazy about him? - Her? Not crazy, but she likes him.

Hey, have you lovebirds finished? There are customers waiting.

You have all your lives to love each other. And that's a long time...

Come on, Mario. Get to work!

Your aunt's right.

I like it when you busy yourself quietly like this.

In a month, Mario will be married, and we'll have all this to ourselves.

We'll set up a nice little home. We'll move all the furniture around.

We'll swap the table with the armchair, the armchair with the bed,

the bed with the chest, the chest with the wardrobe.

And my bedroom will be your bedroom. What do you think?

It's something I've been planning. I've always wanted to get married.

I've had everything ready, except the woman.

You, too, should think of your future. You're an orphan, your fiancé is dead...

I don't ask you to love me right away. Take time to forget your fiancé.

But later... perhaps you could love me.

You'll come to love me a little at a time, without noticing.

And the day when you do notice, we may have been married for 2 years.

What do you say? I realise I'm not perfect,

but I've a warm heart and I love you.

I've loved you since the day I saw you in the church.

All I'm asking is to make you happy.

You can trust me.

- Assunta! - Hello, Michel.

What a lovely surprise! Come in, come in.

Oh, that's right. You haven't met.

This is Lolita, my soon-to-be fiancée. And this is Assunta.

Mario's fiancée. You're very pretty.

- Less so than you. Is Mario here? - No.

He'll be so upset to have kept you waiting. He loves you very much.

- Will you sit down? - No, I was just passing. I'll go.

Oh, don't do that. He'll be devastated.

I know his love for you better than you do, we've talked about it so much.

- It's true. - Even when Michel isn't here.

They're great friends. See, she even mends his clothes.

- Thank you. - Oh, it's nothing.

- So the marriage is in 1 month? - No, not in 1 month.

I came to tell Mario that I've decided to bring the date forward.

- Good idea. - Isn't it?

Once you've decided you should act fast.

Yes. That's why we'll be married in a week.

And then she said, "We'll be married in a week."

I'm not surprised, after what happened at the dance hall.

- What happened? - You didn't hear?

- No, tell us! - I saw and heard everything.

- Mario punched a guy over that girl. - No!

Yes. And right after that Assunta brought forward the marriage.

- How about that! - It was just as I told you.

Now they're all at daggers drawn. Assunta, the girl, Michel and Mario...

Just between us, it'll be a miracle if this doesn't end badly.

- See this card? - Yes.

Watch closely.

- Bravo! - Wait, that's not all.

And now, ladies & gentlemen, something a little more difficult...

You see this match? I'm going to light it without touching the box.

Missed!

Missed! Wait... Don't laugh or I'll miss again.

Missed! Yesterday I did it 4 times in a row!

- Try again! - Wait... Oh, no!

Missed!

- You do it. - Oh, yes. Show us.

- He does it every time. - Later.

- No, now! - It's too hot.

- Do it for me, little Mario. - Yes, do it. She's asking nicely.

No, I...

You're always in a bad mood lately. You don't laugh. You don't even sing.

Previously, it was me who never laughed.

- What's the matter? - Nothing.

- Assunta? - No, no. It's nothing..

Of course it's nothing. All your talk is bothering him.

Have you heard that silence is refreshing?

Fine, I'll shut up. I'll go get some strawberry ices.

He leaves at 4. Come then.

- No. - I'll be waiting.

- Don't bother. - You'll come because you love me.

- Me? - Yes, you show it without realising.

If you think about it for 5 minutes, you'll see that you love me.

- Shut up! - It was love at first sight.

When you thought I was asleep, that first night, I heard you...

- Idiot! - It was love.

And when you punched that guy, that was jealousy!

- You're crazy! - Assunta came because she was worried.

She brought the marriage forward because she was afraid.

She knew before you did that you love me.

- I don't love you. - Say it again to my face.

- You'll come? - No.

- At 4. - No!

- What's the matter? - I'm hot, that's all.

- There's something else. - I said it's nothing.

What's the matter? The Sirocco. He's sweating.

Me too. My clothes are sticking to me. The more you drink, the thirstier you get.

The thirstier you get, the hotter you get.

The hotter you get, the more you drink. Is it 4 already?

- 4 o'clock? - And they haven't delivered the ice.

The Sirocco has got to them, too.

- I have to go. - You're leaving?

- Michel's waiting. - Stay a little longer.

- I can't. - Michel can wait. Please...

Let him go. In 3 days you'll be married.

Then you'll be together forever, with or without the Sirocco.

- See you this evening. - See you then.

12 couples will be marrying tomorrow at 11am, at the Donna-Regina church.

Among the future husbands is the well known singer, Mario Esposito.

- Here's the bride! - Long live the bride!

- Where's Mario? - He's going straight to the church.

- Why? - His tailor's still finishing his suit.

Typical. He picks the one tailor in town who's late.

He's going to be late for the wedding, I bet my hand on it.

Well, give me your arm in the meantime.

- My aunt. - My aunt?

Let's go to the church.

Stop!

Stop!

What did I tell you? He's not here.

He should be here. He must be in the church.

Without us? Without her? The couples should go in together.

Go and get him! Luckily I have some experience.

Without me, this would be a disaster.

- I'm looking for a bridegroom... - There are plenty inside.

He's not coming!

And all because of a tailor!

They're looking at us like we're freaks. This is unbearable!

- Well? - I don't understand. He's not there.

Unbelievable! A wedding without a bridegroom!

- He could still come. - Even if he does, it's too late now.

- To do this to me! - And to me, too!

Poor Michel! Take us back home.

Faster! Faster!

Mario! Mario!

Lolita!

Mario! Lolita! Mario!

Gone!

They've gone together.

Oh, the bastard!

That's where she lives.

- She's just a balcony away. - Yes, but she's not alone.

- A husband? - Worse - a lover.

And they seem to be in love. You can see it in his face.

- And her? - She's always kissing him.

- That doesn't prove anything. - I'd like to know what she's thinking.

- Have you spoken? - No, but she smiled when I snapped her.

- What's she like? - Desirable! I'll show you.

I've got the photos. Here they are.

This was on the first day. She didn't notice me.

This was the next day. She pretended not to see me. What a pose!

This was yesterday morning. See her smiling right at the camera?

- She let me photograph her! - Congratulations! You've lost no time.

- Have you set up a meeting? - No, they're always together.

We've been walking all day and only made 10 lire.

- We'll have better luck tomorrow. - It's always tomorrow with you.

- So where is it, your restaurant? - Not much further.

Oh, it's too hot! Let's stop in the shade.

- The restaurant is right there. - I told you, I can't go on. Help me up.

See? That's better.

[Sings in Italian]

- There are people watching. - There's no-one.

- Who are you smiling at? - I was smiling? I didn't realise.

Come on, let's get to work.

[Sings in Italian]

Miss!

- Is the other singer on vacation? - No, he left.

- Why? - I don't know.

- It's not important. What's his name? - This one? Antonio.

- No, the other. - Mario.

- I heard he's popular with the women. - Perhaps.

- Whatever keeps the customers happy... - Excuse me.

I can't go on like this. I've had enough.

Every day the same questions. "Where's Mario? What's happened to him?"

I can imagine. Rue du Sourire... 21 413...

- Still taking down addresses? - Yes.

- What's the point? - I'll find them eventually. And then...

- Why are you so determined? - I have a score to settle with Mario.

- And the other? - Oh, that's a different matter.

- He took her from me, he'll pay for it. - She led him on.

She led him on? Are you kidding? I know him. He arranged all this.

He was my friend. She wasn't.

You think he's innocent! If he came in now, you'd throw yourself in his arms!

I love him.

- That's no reason. - It's the only reason.

I admire you. Because me... He made fun of me. He promised me.

He knew how much I loved her, what she meant to me.

If I get my hands on them, I'll show them!

What awful singing!

The silver star glitters on the sea,

the waves are calm, the wind is favourable.

The silver star glitters on the sea,

the waves are calm, the wind is favourable.

Come to my agile little boat,

Saint Lucia, Saint Lucia!

Not bad!

Saint Lucia, Saint Lucia!

- Have you finished? - What?

Never mind.

- She's jealous. - Yes, but she keeps looking at me.

- She's nice. - Very nice. Shall we invite her?

Wait, let me do it.

From Taranto to Naples,

the most beautiful song,

which stupefies and seduces,

and drives all hearts to madness...

Its disturbing rhythm

bewitches and beguiles lovers

into a whirlwind of joy and passion!

Beautiful Tarantella! Yes, it's you, your je-ne-sais-quoi.

Mad melody that drives hearts wild!

Ah, Tarantella of love! Ah, you ensnare us forever!

Tarantella!

Come on, we're leaving.

Don't forget to lock the door! Someone might sneak in,

kiss me on the mouth, and leave on tiptoe!

Hello!

My photos...

- Come and get them! - Oh... Go!

- What a beautiful day! - Yes.

Come on, I forgive you.

Thanks!

You like me, but you're shocked that others like me, too. That's not fair!

- Is it my fault if men want me? - You provoke them!

I provoke them? I don't have a limp or a hump, that's all.

You know I only love you.

- You believe me, right? - How can I? You lie all the time.

- Me? - Yes, you.

You lie when you kiss, with your eyes, with your smile.

- All you care about is being desired! - You should be flattered!

Would you rather men found me ugly, and pitied you for having

a mistress they wouldn't even want for a wife?

I want to be pleasing because I love you.

That's some strange reasoning.

What can I say? Love makes me unreasonable.

Kiss me! You deserve to be cheated on, so that you can learn to trust me.

- Good evening, Michel. How are you? - Fine, thanks.

- Good evening, Michel. - Good evening.

We haven't seen you in ages. Are you dining?

- We have some lovely red mullet. - Not tonight, thank you.

- Have you seen Mario? - Yes, this morning.

- He arrived, he sang and they left. - They left?

- Yes, he was with a woman. - A brunette.

- Bastard! - What is it? Have you fallen out?

No, no, it's nothing. Do you know where they live?

- What? Don't you two live together? - You don't understand!

Mario's made another conquest, and Michel wants to bring him home.

- Exactly. So, that address? - I'd like to help, but I don't know it.

Wait, I might know...

I think someone mentioned that they lived at an inn near Pozzuoli.

- Are you sure? - Yes, Pozzuoli.

- What's up? Has he gone out? - No, he's asleep.

- Oh, he never leaves! - I'm arranging to be alone today.

- Really? - Yes.

- Lolita! Lolita! - I'm here, darling!

- I don't like your balcony conversations. - Conversations?

- You heard me. - Are you crazy? There's no-one here.

- Really? - Yes. I...

OK, let's see...

Open up!

- Open up! - I told you, there's no-one.

- Open, you coward! - This is ridiculous!

Open!

- Open or I'll break the door! - Idiot, I said there's no-one!

- Shut up! - Hey, what are you doing?

- He's gone mad! He thinks I'm... - Shut up! Open this door!

- By whose authority? - Never mind. Open it!

- But... - Will you open it or not?

- Oh, what do I care? - Hurry up!

Well? Satisfied?

He'll get what's coming to him. He better stay out of my way. Come on.

If you find him, let me know. I'd like to be there.

- Have you finished? - Oh, please, calm down.

All this fuss over some guy I've never even spoken to!

You think I'm fool enough to cheat on you with the first man I meet?

When I cheat on you, my love, you'll know it!

Or perhaps I've already cheated on you. Think carefully. Anyone come to mind?

- Nothing would surprise me! - There's no contract between us!

I never promised to be faithful my whole life. Faithful? That's a laugh!

- You disgust me! - I do what I want with my life.

The guy next door can talk to me if he likes. You're not my only friend.

- He's a free man. He's not engaged. - Shut up! You're just a slut!

Ah, finally you're talking sense. It took you long enough to realise.

If I'd been an honest woman, I'd never have become your mistress, darling.

Spaghetti...

Escalope... chilli salad... grillades...

- Vegetables? - Same as usual.

Miss Assunta!

That's all.

- Where is he? - Not far. By the harbour.

Mario!

- I was afraid you wouldn't come. - You don't know me. I'm not angry.

- Even after what I did? - I've forgotten everything.

I haven't. I've decided to leave Naples.

- You're leaving? - I can't stay. I've ruined everything.

But first, I wanted to see you, to ask forgiveness,

so that I can leave with fewer regrets and less sorrow.

Assunta, I want to tell you something. Oh, I know you won't believe me.

But you must know that I never stopped loving you.

I can see you think I'm crazy.

Maybe I am. Sometimes I think so, too.

- Why are you talking like this? - I left you, I betrayed Michel, I ran.

Only a madman would do that. Now it's all over. I'm going.

- Where? - Anywhere. What does it matter?

I want to regain my strength, rebuild my life, forget... Forget!

And me? Do you think I'd let you leave? Your life, your strength is here,

on this soil, by this sea, close to me. Close to me...

Wait a day. In 24 hours we can leave together.

No, no, no. You're very nice, but I value my life!

- Too bad. - Exactly. too bad.

- I'll leave with you today. - No! No! Your boyfriend's crazy!

He's possessed! When the possessed no longer possess themselves…

No, no, no. He'll follow us, he'll find us! I have to save my neck!

- What a fuss over a neck! - It's my only one, and I need it.

And I need you! Why did you lead me on?

What do you mean? I took some photos. That's not a lifetime commitment.

- You're so cruel! - We spoke a few words on a balcony.

A balcony isn't a bedroom. It's basically the street, but higher.

- It meant nothing. - But I love you!

I can't help it. You're the first man I've every truly loved.

Shh! I think he's come back.

- No. - Yes, I know his footsteps.

- Please go, I beg you. - Calm down. He's not here.

- He may never return. I pray to God.. - Shh! Quieter, quieter.

I pray God every day for deliverance. If you knew what he did to me...

- He betrayed me! How I suffered! - Shh! Quieter, quieter.

He destroyed my life. Please don't leave me now!

Do I have to drown myself before you believe me?

No, don't do that. And don't cry. My handkerchiefs are in my suitcase.

I was an honest young girl. I knew nothing about life.

I was supposed to marry a young man I didn't love.

He was rich, but since I was honest I told him: "I don't really love you."

He said: "I don't care. You're too young to distinguish affection from love."

That was nice, wasn't it? Then Mario arrived.

He ruined everything, turned everything upside down.

- You poor thing. - I met him a week before my marriage,

at the café where he sang. I was with my mother, my fiancé and his parents.

When I clapped, Mario thought I loved him!

He got all worked up - he can get violent, you know, and a bit crazy.

He abducted me that night. I resisted, but by morning I was no longer a girl!

Save me from this beast! I love you. My life is in your hands!

- My watch... where's my watch? - I'm so unhappy!

Can you forgive me for loving you?

That's him! This time I'm certain.

- Go! Go! - Yes, I'll go.

But swear that you'll take me with you, swear that you'll save me.

- Yes, whatever you want. - Thank you, my love!

Go, hurry! Do you want to get me killed?

You?

Yes, me!

No, that would be too easy.

Don't be afraid. I won't touch you until Mario gets here.

I want to see you together. It'll be simpler. Sit down.

Go ahead, sit down.

Since I've promised not to touch you, make the most of it!

You look nice, but you seem a little pale.

- I'm innocent! - I know, I know.

He forced me! He threatened me! I didn't want to go. I loved you.

- Of course. - I still love you! Do you believe me?

- You're the first man I truly loved! - Really!

- Even now, I feel that I could... - Please try to control your passions.

Hey, Mario, there's someone waiting for you upstairs.

- Who? Michel? - Yes. He's been there half an hour.

OK, thank you.

I was expecting you. You were right to come. I'm a swine.

You can do what you like. I won't defend myself.

I said I won't defend myself!

You betrayed me. It was cowardly, dirty...

Yes, I'm cowardly, dirty! So what are you waiting for?

I'm taking a good look at you. Do you mind?

Swine!

You're enjoying this, aren't you? You want to see a fight?

- Perhaps I should start with you. - No, don't touch me! I'm innocent!

- It was all his fault, I swear! - Swear on what?

On your dead fiancé in Mexico? Or the other? The rich man at the café.

Yes, I heard everything. I was behind the door.

Since you don't know this woman, allow me to introduce you.

Here's Lolita the orphan, her fiancé dead in Mexico,

her mother also dead, after the death of her father.

And now here's Lolita No 2, fiancée to a young man, rich but honest,

until a singer, inflamed with passion, cruelly tore her from her family.

- That singer was you. - Me?

Yes, it was you who ravaged this pure and honest girl,

according to the story she told to the man next door. Do you understand yet?

And what story did you tell Mario to persuade him to do what he did?

To turn his life upside down like you did to mine?

Don't hurt me! I'll tell you the truth. When I first met you, I...

Not another story! You've got one for every occasion.

- This time it's true, I swear! - Get out!

- But listen, Mario... - I said get out! Out!

This way.

Good news, darling. I left my boyfriend and I'm yours for ever.

Beneath the silver stars, while Naples is asleep,

a melody rises to the heavens...

In the night, hear the mandolins...

In the night, hear these heavenly voices...

Soft music, soothing refrain,

pleasant to hear, it captivates my heart.

Despite myself, as I hum along,

full of emotion, my whole being surrenders...

And in my fever, I want this beautiful

dream of love to go on forever.

At the hour when lovers unite their deep joy,

forgetting the world in this troubling refrain...

Hear the mandolins...

Hear these heavenly voices...

Soft music, soothing refrain,

pleasant to hear, it captivates my heart.

Despite myself, as I hum along,

full of emotion, my whole being surrenders...

And in my fever, I want this beautiful

dream of love to go on forever.

English subtitles by Kinsayder for KG.