Original subtitles

* I'm just a roustabout

* Shiftin' from town to town

* No job can hold me down

* I'm just a knock-around guy

* There's a lot of space beneath that sky

* Until I find my place There's no doubt

* I'll be a rovin' roustabout

* Even if a pretty girl

* Should catch my eye

* I'll give her a quick hello

* And a fast good-bye

* I'll go the way I want

* Driftin' just like the sand

* Doin' what job I can

* Changing my plans as I choose

* Long as I keep happy I can't lose

* Till I find my place There's no doubt

* I'll be a rovin' roustabout

* I'll be a rovin' roustabout

* I'll be a rovin' roustabout *

(GIRLS GIGGLING)

(LAUGHING)

(MUSIC)

Allow me. Thank you.

(LOUD JAZZ MUSIC)

Hey, over here!

Craig, how are you?

What took you so long?

We found a new shortcut.

We'll have beer, please.

Mm-hmm. You'll also have cokes. House rules for minors.

We don't need any cokes. We're over 18.

Sure you are, dear.

How come they call this place a tea house, dear?

Well, it's something that was in, and now is almost out.

So in the future, we're gonna rename it either something further in or further out.

Clever.

That light...

If the fuzz comes that light is gonna start blinking on and off.

So hang on to the cokes and dump the beer.

Dump the waitress.

(LAUGHING)

Thank you very much, and thank you, Herbie.

That was Herbie and his makes-you-wanna- sit-this-one-out orchestra.

(LAUGHTER)

Now back in your cages, you fools, you.

And now, ladies and gentlemen,

while our mariachis are recuperating from their strenuous activities,

the tea house takes great pleasure in presenting that young man

whose innocent folk songs have electrified colleges

and enraged campuses all over the nation.

(LAUGHTER)

A young man who would undoubtedly be playing

in one of the larger cities like Chicago or San Francisco

if the authorities there didn't misunderstand him.

(LAUGHING)

A young man whose charming appearance and boyish manner

conceal the instincts of a Mau Mau.

(LAUGHTER)

Here he is, ladies and gentlemen,

the one and only Charlie Rogers!

Let's hear it for Charlie.

Okay, what'll it be?

How about The All-American End?

How about The Witches of Wellesley?

How about The Day They Hung the Rap on Dean Semmilweiss?

(LAUGHTER)

How about that?

You girls are new here, aren't you?

Uh-huh.

Tell you what, you get rid of the guys you're with

and I'll meet you later on, okay?

All right, knock it off, buddy.

Aw, don't get sore, pal.

He's only kidding. Sure, I was just kidding.

Go ahead, sing.

It's a little thing for our friends on Fraternity Row.

* Hail to thee

* Old Ivy League

* Poison Ivy League

* The rah-rah boys are sittin' round the tables tonight

* The rah-rah boys have lots of plans in view

* They gonna have panty raids

* And make their own lemonade

* They'll live it up just like the big boys do

* Poison Ivy League

* Boys in that Ivy League

* Give me an itch

* Those sons of the rich

(LAUGHING)

Boy, he kills me.

I think he's smooth and sexy.

* The rah-rah boys will go to bed so early tonight

* Before exams, they need a lot of rest

* They gotta make good for dad

* They gotta make good so bad

* They'll even pay someone to take that test

(LAUGHING)

Man, he's funny like a case of traveling mumps.

* Boys in that Ivy League

* How can they flunk

* They're so full of bunk

* That Poison Ivy League

* The rah-rah boys are being groomed for business someday

* For better things, to college they were sent

* And you can bet they'll be

* The head of a company

* As long as dear old dad is president

(LAUGHING)

* Poison Ivy League

* Boys in that Ivy League

* So loaded with cash

* They give me a rash

* That Poison Ivy League

* So let it be told I won't touch them with a ten-foot pole

* That Poison Ivy League

I'll bet he never got further than grammar school.

That's right, scholar.

We're gonna let him get away with this?

No. Just cool it a minute.

Thank you. Thank you.

I'll be back in ten minutes

with the football hero's lament.

I Left My Knee At USC.

(LAUGHING)

They're taking it bigger than usual.

Good.

Might mean trouble.

So what else is new?

Charlie, why do you have to act so tough? What does it get you?

Look, if you're not tough in this world, you get squashed, honey.

I didn't have any parents, either.

What's that got to do with it?

Everything.

Save it, kid.

CRAIG: Hey, Charlie.

Yeah?

Got a light, friend?

Sure,

friend.

About your act.

I've heard buzzards sing better than that.

Yeah, and this is a real crummy joint.

I've seen more action in a zoo.

From which side of the cage, pal?

What's that supposed to mean?

You figure it out, college boy, I'm going outside and get some air.

Let's get him.

George, let me have the phone.

Is that your 'cycle?

You oughta stop reading those hot rod magazines, buddy.

'Cycle is out. It's either bike or motorcycle.

Made in Japan, huh?

That's right. Made in Japan.

What's the matter, aren't American 'cycles good enough for you?

You don't dig world trade, college boy,

after all the economics they tried to shove into you.

Get off, buddy.

Come on. Come on.

No. That's karate.

That goes with the 'cycle, come on.

Are you all right, Charlie?

What are you doing, Charlie? You know I can't afford any trouble.

Charlie, get out of here. The cops are on their way.

Yeah, and this time they'll close me up for good.

You and that temper of yours!

Oh, you lay off!

I've had it, Charlie, you're through, you're fired, get out!

BOY: My arm's broken.

(SIREN)

All right, Rogers, you wanna come with me?

What's up? In there.

You're free to go.

Yeah?

Your lady friend here paid your fine for you.

Hi, baby.

Thanks.

You want to check this to see if it's all there?

Six bucks, a lighter.

Lucky tiki god.

You got an honest department, Sheriff.

Oh, we also brought your bike in.

You can pick it up in the lot outside. Just give this to the officer.

Do I have to sign anything?

No. Just stay out of trouble.

You're asking the impossible, Sheriff.

I'm not asking, I'm telling.

Remember, we've always got an empty cell in there.

I like your hospitality, but I don't think I'll be around to accept it.

Good-bye.

Officer. Yes?

You in charge here? That's right.

You've got a motorcycle.

Yeah, right over there.

Drive carefully.

Yeah, sure.

I guess I'll be cutting out.

We got no choice.

We?

I can get a job anyplace you do.

The next tea house is about 1,500 west of here.

Like in Phoenix.

And besides, this bike is only built for one.

This thing has a backseat.

I'm sorry.

I could have let you rot in that jail!

Just because you bailed me out doesn't mean you own me.

Nobody can own you, I know that.

But doesn't it mean anything that I'm hung up on you.

We've been all through it before, remember?

Oh, yeah, I know, just laughs.

And I told you I'm not the kind of guy to get mixed up...

Why don't you break my arm?

(MOTORCYCLE STARTING) See you around, kid.

I'll pay back the fine as soon as I get a job.

Keep in touch!

Ya big ape.

* Gotta do some livin'

* Got the wanderlust

* Better clear the highway

* 'Cause I'm gonna move some dust

* Oh, I got wheels

* Wheels on my heels

* And I gotta keep rollin'

* Rollin' along

* Why do I keep movin'?

* Never settlin' down

* Can it be I'm lookin' for

* A dream I haven't found?

* Oh, I got wheels

* Wheels on my heels

* And I gotta keep rollin'

* Rollin' along

* Oh, I got wheels

* Wheels on my heels

* And I gotta keep rollin'

* Rollin' along

Those fresh kids, they think they own the world.

Don't pay any attention to him, Cathy.

You're kind of pretty, you know that?

What are you doing?

Stop playing games. Let him get by!

Well, somebody's got to teach him a lesson.

Want to go for a ride with me?

You fresh punk!

Cut it out! It's not his fault you have a hangover.

Ahh!

Hey, stupid, it's a public road, didn't you know that?

Yeah? My aim must be getting bad. I thought I hit you.

Joe, you'll kill him!

He's too stupid to get hurt.

Stop it, please!

I'm not gonna let him pass me.

Oh, stop it, for heaven's sake, Joe!

Stop! Stop!

It wasn't my fault!

He's supposed to know how to drive it.

Well, he's moving, isn't he? He's all right.

Are you all right?

I'm all right.

He's bleeding! Get the first aid kit.

Here, hold this.

Yeah... Oh, great, that's all I need.

What kind of crazy stunt was that anyway?

You hotshot motorcycle kids, you think you own the world.

More of you ought to be run off that highway.

Look, wise guy, you're asking for it!

Take it easy. I'm sorry for what happened. Joe just got carried away.

Somebody's gonna have to carry him away.

I said we were sorry.

You said it. He didn't.

And I'm not going to!

You won't get anywhere acting like a dead end kid.

If you want to talk, we'll talk. If you want to blow off steam, we'll wait.

There's nothing to talk about!

You're gonna pay for this bike if I have to take it out on this rat's fur.

Oh, you talk mighty big!

Don't we have enough trouble?

Trouble? Trouble that I made, huh?

She didn't say that. That's what she meant!

That's exactly what I did mean!

Hey, look, folks, I hate to break up a family argument

but who's gonna pay for this stuff?

I'll send somebody back for your bike.

Who will you send?

Some of my men and gear from the carny.

The carny? The carnival. I own it.

We're just setting up at the picnic grounds near here.

What about this?

I'll buy you a new one.

Come on, get into the jeep.

Okay.

As long as you don't try to pay me off in cotton candy.

I'll give you a hand.

You get your hands off her.

Take it easy, pop.

Don't call me pop.

Mom?

Just kidding.

Maggie, you get in the back.

I want Cathy up here with me.

My name's Charlie Rogers.

Okay.

What, I didn't do nothing.

My name's Cathy Lean.

Cathy, turn around.

MAN: Hey, Joe!

Where do you want to put the bally platform for the skin show?

Isn't it staked out? Yeah, but we're not sure.

Oh, can't you guys do anything right?

Come on.

This place don't show me very much.

Wait till you see it at night.

Hope I don't have to.

You'll be around for a while.

They're not very big with Japanese motorcycle parts out here.

Show him around, Cathy. I'll park the jeep.

Okay.

If I'd known he was a kook, I wouldn't have buzzed him like that.

He's not a kook.

Sure.

Everybody goes around knocking guys off bikes just for looking.

He's my father. He worries about me.

She worries about him.

Everyone needs somebody to worry about them.

Mm-hmm.

They're good friends.

Oh, sure.

Oh.

Aw, come on, what did I say this time?

It's what you didn't say.

All right, all right.

If I promise to take my foot out of my mouth, will you show me around?

All right.

I don't know where to start, but...

What's with this tennis court?

Oh, these white lines show the roustabouts where to stick

the front end, the pig iron, and the butcher shops.

How's that?

Oh, the concessions, rides, and candy stands.

Oh, I see.

What's this over here?

What's a hot wagon?

Generator truck.

Drome? That's the, uh...

It's right over there. High wall, motorcycle stunts.

Mm-hmm.

Now this wouldn't happen to...

Oh, donniker, exactly what it sounds like. The rest room.

Grease joint? Hamburger stand.

Right over here.

What are the big fans for?

Well, they blow the smell of onions down the midway.

Makes people hungry. That's pretty good.

Here we have the mugg joint. Photo gallery.

You don't know how you look

till you get your picture took.

Uh-oh.

Just what I thought. The dirty show.

Oh, now, not what you're thinking.

It's where they throw baseballs

and knock the girl into a tank of water.

What's dirty about that?

The lot lice get their jollies from it.

Look, I know I'm supposed to know but, uh, what's lot lice?

Customers who don't spend.

Why don't you speak English?

For the same reason doctors write prescriptions in Latin.

To keep us separate from the Earth people.

Earth people?

Civilians, those who aren't with it.

Anyone who isn't a carny.

Now, what was that for?

That was for, uh, what it was for.

But why? Aw, look.

You kiss every girl you talk to?

No.

You kiss the ones you do kiss this soon?

Look, why should I have to explain...

Oh, I see. You figure you won't be here that long.

Excuse me.

We're not through talking yet.

I am.

Strike one.

She'll be back.

What do you do when you're not riding around on your bike?

Besides that.

I sing a little.

This accident going to make you late for your next job?

I don't have a next job.

Where were you going?

I was going to Phoenix. I got a buddy that owns a nightclub there.

Where's home?

A little swamp outside of Shreveport.

Any relatives?

Not that I can remember, no.

How old are you?

Are you making out a police report?

No. I just like to know what my money's being invested in.

Your money's being invested in a brand new guitar

and a 1964 motorcycle with a bent front end.

And I'm stuck here in this cow town until it's fixed.

I'll bet you're broke. How are you going to eat?

I'll manage.

How about a job with the carny, just until your bike is fixed?

I could use a good roustabout.

Are you serious?

Me, work in a circus? No.

This is not a circus. It's a carnival. There's a big difference.

Okay.

Now, how about it? This is hard, rough work.

On second thought, forget it. You might be too soft for real work.

Hey, just a minute.

All right, but I'm not gonna go biting the heads off any chickens.

That sort of carny went out 20 years ago.

A little muscle on the lot everywhere.

We all do everything around here.

What about Joe?

He won't bother you if you don't bother Cathy.

That's the whole idea.

That's your problem.

Hey, Maggie!

Where do I sleep?

Over there. Last trailer on your left.

Now you're a roustabout.

Is that good?

Okay, here we go, Charlie.

All right.

Straight up.

Got it? Yup.

Okay, put the pin in.

Done.

Plan on staying with the carny, Charlie?

Are you kidding?

I'm getting out of this sawdust trap just as soon as my wheels are fixed.

This is strictly for guys that got nothing better to do.

I like white sheets and bright lights and a lot of dough in my pocket.

Then you'd better get out quick.

Sawdust gets in your veins.

Don't worry. It won't happen to me.

Aren't you guys finished yet?

Here, I'll take care of that.

Go help Estelle in the mitt camp, and after that report back to me.

What's a mitt camp?

The palmistry tent. Now go on, it's right over there, go on!

That's one thing I like about you, Joe.

You've got a very likable way, pal, a very likable way.

Come on, Cody, let's get this other one up here.

Okay, Joe, here we go.

(HAMMERING WOOD)

Hey, don't you believe in knocking?

How do you knock on a tent?

What's your name, beautiful?

Charlie Rogers, handsome. What's yours?

(HEAVILY ACCENTED) Professionally I am known as Madame Mijanou.

But you can call me Estelle.

I think I'd rather call you Madame Mijanou.

What do you do here?

That depends.

By day or night?

I hope you're not a mind reader, because if you are

I'm about to get my face slapped.

(GIGGLES)

I am a seeress.

A what?

A seeress.

Sit down.

I read the past, present, and future.

Ahh.

You are the son of a Roman baron.

You have come to this country on a diplomatic mission.

You will bring great financial reward to your native land.

Right? Sure.

Right now I'm a roustabout and the boss told me to come in here and give you a hand.

Oh, which hand do you want to give me?

The left hand, being closest to the heart

reveals much about love.

Let's forget the fortune-telling.

What do you want me to do?

But I can tell you what kind of woman will be attracted to you.

I think I'm old enough to figure that out for myself.

What do you see in my eyes?

Maybe I better slap your face.

(LAUGHING)

I like you, Charlie.

But do you think maybe I'm a little too mature for you?

Women are like wine. They improve with age.

But you don't drink.

I'm an alcoholic.

MAN: Estelle!

Who's that?

Probably my boyfriend.

You don't care?

Not if you don't.

Oh, I don't care.

MAN: Estelle!

What does he do?

He's a knife thrower.

(COUGHS)

Uh, I think I care.

Man, I've heard of heartburn, but aren't you carrying this too far?

(SNICKERING)

What's your gimmick?

It's legit. What's your gimmick?

No gimmick. I'm just a roustabout.

My name's Charlie Rogers. I'm B.J. Lewis.

What's that stuff? Gasoline.

What do you use? Regular or ethyl?

Whatever I can get.

How do you keep from frying your tonsils?

It's just a matter of practice and getting used to it.

Watch.

I bet you get invited to a lot of barbecues.

Hey, how'd you get started in this?

My doctor told me to quit smoking.

No, seriously.

Well, I started out as a sword swallower.

That's nice.

(COUGHS)

Okay, okay, I believe you.

All my life I've been afraid of everybody and everything.

I thought if I did something dangerous

I'd show people I had guts.

Well, I'll tell you what, B.J.

Keep swallowing that thing and you'll show them you've got guts, all right.

Anybody can learn to eat fire. Do you want me to teach you?

Are you kidding? I gag on Spanish rice.

MAN: Hey, you! Yeah.

Down here, stupid.

Hey, look, kid, you'd better wait till you grow up

before you start picking fights with grownups.

What do you mean kid? I'm 38.

Congratulations.

You Charlie Rogers? Yeah.

Well, Joe's been looking for you. Come on.

Hey, B.J.

If I need a light, I'll let you know.

(GIRLS GIGGLING)

Hey, what are you doing?

Bring those back. What's the matter?

Don't be funny. What, you want these?

I can't. Come on, reach for them.

Will you hand us our robes, please?

Throw 'em, Billy.

I can't throw 'em that far.

Don't come any closer. He's so short, he can see right under the panels.

Come on, throw 'em.

Go ahead and throw 'em, Billy.

There.

Oh, come on, guys.

I'm turning blue from the cold.

Yeah? That's my favorite color.

Come on.

Here you go, girls.

Thanks, Cathy.

Is this on your work list?

Just getting to know the family.

Hey, Joe's over by the grab joint.

Thank you. What's the grab joint?

Hot dog stand.

You walk me over? I'm headed that way.

Hey.

Want to go for a ride with me?

A ride, where?

To the moon, if we can get enough juice out of this thing.

Oh you can't... Sure.

Hey, it's ready for a test drive, isn't it.

Haven't you got anything better to do?

Can't say that I have. Come on.

Joe will be mad. Joe's mad at the world.

I don't want to get you in any more trouble.

I'm already in trouble. 27th floor, please.

All right.

* Young as a circus parade

* It's a wonderful world

* Pretty as pink lemonade

* It's a wonderful world

* Life is

* A carnival

* Live it for all you're worth

* You are

* The star of the greatest show on Earth

* This big wide world is a clown

* With his nose painted red

* A rainbow-colored balloon

* Dancing high overhead

* It's everyone's oyster

* Step up, get your pearl

* It's a wonderful, wonderful

* Wonderful, wonderful world

* This big wide world is a clown

* With his nose painted red

* A rainbow-colored balloon

* Dancing high overhead

* It's everyone's oyster

* Step up, get your pearl

* It's a wonderful, wonderful

* Wonderful, wonderful world

* It's a wonderful, wonderful

* Wonderful, wonderful world *

Hey, Cody.

You haven't seen Charlie Rogers, have you?

No, no. Just giving the wheel a trial spin. Greasing up the cables.

Hey, Cody, bring us down, will you?

Oh, you haven't seen him, huh?

You get your head back out of the way.

I'll give him something to wake him up.

Get him out of there.

Now just what do you think you're doing?

Oh, we just went for a little ride, Joe. Sort of a coffee break.

Cathy, we open in three hours. You know better than this.

I'm sorry, Dad. Get back to work.

Don't blame her, Joe, I just asked her to go for a ride.

If it'll make you feel better, here's half a dollar.

Look, I told you to go back to work!

I'm telling you once, and I'm telling you flat.

You stay away from my daughter.

I told you it wasn't her fault, I talked her into it.

Maggie owns this place. She can hire tramps if she wants to.

But I'm not gonna put up with you if you get out of line again.

Well?

He never would have known if you would just learn to keep your mouth shut.

Thanks for the try, Cody.

(MUMBLING AND PEOPLE TALKING)

All right, Beeps, hit it.

BARKER: Hurry, hurry, hurry. See it all inside.

It's a big show. It's all on the inside.

Hurry, hurry, hurry. Step lively, folks. See it all, see it now.

See it on the inside. Let's step lively, folks.

Step lively, folks. Let's not block the tent.

All on the inside, friends.

Here they come, fellas. Let's get 'em on their toes.

Here she is, a 26-year-old

lovely little bearded lady from Afghanistan.

Here she is, my little torch holder, Louise.

And there, ladies and gentlemen, standing before you

is the tallest living man on this Earth!

(MOTORCYCLE REVVING)

(PEOPLE SHOUTING)

Ain't that a pretty little balloon, boy?

Hey, kid, give me that! What do you think you're doing?

If I catch you around here... Hey, you! Junior!

(LAUGHING)

Anybody like to have a big beautiful balloon?

And this lovely lady. Wouldn't you like to know what the future holds for you?

How much?

Well, now, 50 cents is all it's gonna cost you

and how about this young lady right here?

Wouldn't you like to know about the handsome man in your future?

I already know all about it, brother.

Ah, well, you can't win 'em all.

All right, now, friends...

Well, there it is.

How long you been doing this?

All my life. My mother and father were carnies.

Still gets to you, huh?

You don't see it?

It's a carnival.

Don't hang around too long.

You got your religion, I got mine.

Your bike will be ready Friday.

Why so long?

They don't work tomorrow or Sunday.

Um, help out on one of those rides, will you, please. I've got something to do.

Sure.

Mr. Nielsen.

Oh, Mrs. Morgan, I was just coming to see you.

Yeah, to pull the rug out from under us?

As a matter of fact, I...

Was.

I'm sorry, that's my job.

I know, "I just pull the switch. I don't sentence the guy."

Well, Mrs. Morgan, the bank would like to know

when they can expect last month's payment.

When I get it.

Well, I'll have to tell them something more definite.

Business looks like it's pretty good.

Oh, it could be a lot better.

We've been rained out four successive Saturday nights.

It would still be a fair season if we didn't have to pay you off.

Well, that lawsuit you lost could have put you out of business

if our bank hadn't come to your rescue.

And delayed the day of reckoning.

Now, look here, you tell those thick-skinned friends of yours in Topeka

that I'm not trying to tell them how to run their business

but their money's a lot safer if we stay open.

Close us down, and they'll get their money.

About ten cents on the dollar.

We're not trying to tell you how to run your business but the bank would feel

safer if the man who caused the accident were no longer with you.

I'm to blame. I let the insurance lapse.

Look, the court established Mr. Lean was drunk

when he set up that ride. He caused the accident.

Drunk or sober, he's the best man around

and as long as I'm open, he stays.

All right, Mrs. Morgan, I'll tell them.

You do that.

I don't think they'll listen.

Hey, three balls a quarter

drops that little lady in the water.

Yes, sir, step right up

and get your pitching arm going.

Stand back, son. Watch this.

(BELLS RINGS)

Try it again, sir.

Hey, Dad, can I have a quarter for a candy apple?

We got a live one here, folks.

Every pitch a direct hit.

Popcorn and peanuts, folks.

Step right up and get your Cracker Jack and popcorn.

What can I do for you, son?

Candy apple. There you are.

(INDISTINCT SHOUTING)

Hey, Charlie. What?

Can you relieve me here for about ten minutes, please?

How do I get in? From the side.

Step right up, folks, get your Cracker Jack, apples, and popcorn.

Right here, folks, peanuts, Cracker Jack, popcorn, and candy apples.

Hey, mister, this apple has a worm in it.

There's no extra charge for the meat, sonny, beat it.

Thank you, I'll be right back.

CATHY: Over here, folks. Knock the stuffing out of a stuffed cat. Try your luck.

You, sir, win a prize for the young lady.

Whoops. Hold it, kid. You're not fast enough.

Hey, kid, come here.

Come here. Gee, thanks.

Don't try it again.

How are you doing, Charlie?

I'm getting thirsty.

Why don't you put me on the cold drink stand?

What do you want? Carbonated or non-carbonated.

Surprise me, as long as you don't change the scenery.

Over here, folks. Knock the stuffing out of a stuffed cat.

Try your luck.

She's a real doll.

Cathy's a good kid.

Look, uh...

I don't mean to tell you how to live,

but I'd stay clear if I were you.

I already got that clue from big daddy.

I guess he wants her to marry someone with class.

Somebody like the tattooed man.

Well, she's all he's got. He wants the best for her.

Two Cracker Jacks, please.

Thank you.

If Joe wants the best for her, why don't he get her out of here?

Cathy wants to be here. Joe can't tell her what to do.

But as long as she's here he can keep an eye on her.

Yeah. So will I. Okay, Charlie, I'm back.

Well, like I said, we all do everything around here.

Where would you like to help out next?

She's not doing too well over there. How about the cat rack?

If you think you can do better.

I can do better. Try it.

Step right up, folks. You, sir, over here.

Three for a quarter. Try your luck. Right over here, folks.

You, sir, try one free.

Free? All right.

And here we have a winner, folks, step up here.

Well, we would have had a winner if he had paid.

Maybe you just weren't cut out to be a huckster.

You don't make much of a shill, either.

Tell you what, why don't you give me a try?

I've got a pretty persuasive way about me, you know.

So I hear, good luck.

All right, folks, step right over to the cat rack.

Throw the ball at the little old pussycat. How about you?

Right over here. Only 25 cents.

One lousy quarter it costs you.

Come on, anybody?

What's the matter?

Hey, you, buddy, over here.

Hey, you, you, sir.

Hey, I'm talking to you. What the...

Come over to the cat rack.

Throw the ball. I don't want to.

It's only 25 cents. Let go or I'll call a cop.

Crazy nut.

He didn't wanna throw the ball.

Oh, you were just wonderful. Great!

I'm not through yet.

* Come on, kids From 8 to 80

* Hey there, mister Bring your lady

* There's a big show on the inside

* It's carnival time

* Popcorn, peanuts, and cotton candy

* Pink lemonade That's dan-dan-dandy

* Be a big shot for a dollar

* It's carnival time

* Roustabouts roustaboutin'

* There's happy shouts Children shoutin'

* If you've got doubts

* Quit your doubtin' It's thrills

* It's spice

* It's cheap at half the price

* So don't be bashful Buy a ticket

* Get the habit Never kick it

* Hear the band there Don't just stand there

* It's carnival time

Ho! Not you, kid. You're too young. You come along with me.

(BALLOON POPPING)

Now, there's a winner. Give the little boy a prize.

Here you go, sonny. That'll be one dollar.

* Roustabouts roustaboutin'

* There's happy shouts Children shoutin'

* If you've got doubts

* Quit your doubtin' It's thrills

* It's spice

* It's cheap at half the price

* So don't be bashful Buy a ticket

* Get the habit Never kick it

* Hear the band there Don't just stand there

* It's carnival time

* Well, it's carnival time

Okay, folks, that was just a sample, now, the rest are three for a quarter.

Step right up! Everybody, come on!

Three for a quarter!

Well, I'll be damned.

What's the count?

Only fair. We'll have to do better.

Have you heard from the bank?

Oh, stop worrying. We'll pay them off eventually.

Was somebody from the bank here yesterday?

Yeah, Nielsen.

You used to tell me these things.

Well, you've got enough to worry about.

Yeah, like setting up rides properly?

All right, Joe, what's bothering you?

In the old days, you never would have hired anybody without my okay.

We lost four men on our last move...

Because of my pleasant personality!

Yeah, I know. They weren't much good anyway.

What's really bothering you?

All right.

That bum you hired. Oh, not again.

The kid's nothing but trouble!

For you or Cathy?

Now, he started singing in front of the cat rack last night and drew a big crowd.

Maybe tonight he can pull some of them into the tent.

You're makin' a big mistake!

Let me be the judge of that!

Good morning. How do you like the new guitar?

It'll do.

Well, that's gracious of you.

It's a replacement, not a gift.

I came over to tell you how good I thought you were last night.

But forget it!

What'd I do now?

What are you so angry about?

So your guitar was smashed. Maggie bought you a new one. Can't you just say thanks?

Okay, okay.

Thanks, Maggie. How's that, huh?

You fascinate me.

Yeah?

That's the best news I've heard all day.

No. I mean the way you go around the country on your bike

with a chip on your shoulder, singing in some joint and then moving on.

You mean how come I do that,

instead of leading some regular, secure life like in a carnival?

But you're alone.

So is everybody else.

No. Everybody has someone,

some kind of folks.

Like Joe?

Joe's all right where it counts. He's had a rough time.

Oh, pardon me while I cry.

Have you ever?

You know, it might do you some good.

Okay, we're gonna start the first show of the evening!

All right! Right down here! It's all free!

It's free down here! Come over here!

There's gonna be nothing else going on on the midway

until we have the finish of this show, ladies and gentlemen.

Now, we're gonna have first a little music for you.

Musicians, come out here!

How about that for a fine bunch of boys there, eh?

And girls! Bring out those beautiful girls!

And what I mean, they're four of the finest dancers in the world today

and we have brought those direct from Paris.

Not Paris, Texas, no, sir. Paris, France.

And look at that beautiful figure, look at the...

Okay, girls, that's enough. For heaven's sakes, they haven't paid anything yet.

All right, come right up here.

Now I take pleasure in presenting for your approval, ladies and gentlemen,

the one and only

Charlie Rogers!

* Ah-ah-huh

* Hurry, hurry Step this way

* Ah-ah-huh

* Hurry, hurry Step this way

* Now, the show you're gonna see

* Is strictly high-class

* There'll be ten hula dancers

* Shakin' their grass

* So step right up

* Put your money down

* This way

* To carny town

* Ah-ah-huh

* Hurry, hurry, Step this way

* Ah-ah-huh

* Hurry, hurry Step this way

* Ah-ah-huh

* Hurry, hurry Step this way *

That's all, folks!

Wanna see the rest of the show? Come buy a ticket.

Show starts in five minutes.

All right, line up here fast and get your tickets!

Don't stay back here! Come right on in!

You're gonna see something you've never seen in your life before.

Come on.

* Just like an old grandfather's clock

* That won't stop runnin'

* Like an old racehorse

* That just won't ever quit

* There'll be no end to lovin' you

* Nothing can stop me once I start

* 'Cause I've a one-track mind

* And a one-track heart

* Well, I'm as stubborn as a mule

* I just won't let up

* Like an old bloodhound

* I'll hang around your trail

* There'll be no end to lovin' you

* Don't try to stop me if you're smart

* 'Cause I've a one-track mind

* And a one-track heart

* Ooh-wee

* There'll be no turning back

* Ooh-wee

* I'm gonna stay on your track

* Just like a choo-choo train

* That's gotta keep a-chuggin'

* You'll find that I'm the kind

* Who sticks to what I do

* There'll be no end to lovin' you

* Baby, we'll never be apart

* 'Cause I've a one-track mind

* And a one-track heart

* Just like a choo-choo train

* That's gotta keep a-chuggin'

* You'll find that I'm the kind

* Who sticks to what I do

* There'll be no end to lovin' you

* Baby, we'll never be apart

* 'Cause I've a one-track mind

* And a one-track heart

As I promised you! Bring out those beautiful girls!

Charlie. Yeah?

I want to talk to you. It's your phone booth.

I was out there. I heard them. You were great.

Thank you.

Now I'm asking you to stay on with a contract.

I'll pay you union scale. And no muscling rides.

Just singing.

No, thanks, Friday is go day.

I don't get it. Why not?

I don't buy the whole scene.

I'd pay you more if I could.

It's not just the money. Then what is it?

I don't want to get involved.

Oh.

Just take care of number one, huh?

That's right. Doesn't everybody?

No.

No.

You learn that, you may start coming alive from the waist up.

You collect strays, Maggie.

You got one in Joe.

Why don't you stop recruiting? They don't make a family.

What would you know about a family?

Nothing.

Nothing.

(INDISTINCT TALKING)

Marlene Dietrich did it better.

She's not here.

But I am.

Come on in.

Glad you stopped by. There's not much action around here tonight.

You're good-lookin', ya know?

No one ever told me.

Don't be such a... Fleegee?

I think that's the word for a hotshot around this stockade, isn't it?

You don't like the carny much, do you?

I might if you'd stop pushing it like it was the Marine Corps

and Mom's home cooking all rolled into one.

Most of us have to feel that way. It's all we've got.

You like what you see?

There's only 24 hours in the day.

I gotta stop liking sometime.

Afterwards.

Well, excuse me!

Hey! Wait a minute!

I know. You'll call me.

Cathy!

Cathy!

Cathy! Go away.

Cathy!

What are you, some kind of a sex maniac?

That was nothing down there, honest.

Did she tell your fortune?

Did she tell you that you should spread your charms

and they will return many fold?

Well, spread somewhere else!

Why don't you let me explain what happened?

Oh, leave me alone!

Well, what have you got to say now?

Weekend receipts were great, and Charlie did it.

Aw, he'll fall on his face tonight.

Nobody comes out on a Monday.

* Come on, kids From 8 to 80

* Hey there, mister Bring your lady

* There's a big show on the inside

* It's carnival time

* Popcorn, peanuts, and cotton candy

* Pink lemonade That's dan-dan-dandy

* Be a big shot for a dollar

Monday night, huh?

* Roustabouts roustaboutin'

* There's happy shouts Children shoutin'

* If you've got doubts

* Quit your doubtin' It's thrills

* It's spice

* It's cheap at half the price

* So don't be bashful Buy a ticket

* Get the habit Never kick it

* Hear the band there Don't just stand there

* It's carnival time

* Well, it's carnival time

Thank you. Thank you.

Wanna hear more?

CROWD: Yeah!

Come up and buy a ticket. Show starts in five minutes.

In the meanwhile, spend your money.

(INDISTINCT TALKING)

* Some kids born with a silver spoon

* I guess that I was born a little too soon

* Hard knocks

* All I ever knew was hard knocks

* And I'm tellin' you

* That you better beware 'Cause I've had my share

* Hard knocks

* Some kids born as rich as a king

* But I was born without a doggone thing

* Hard knocks

* All I ever knew was hard knocks

* And I'm tellin' you

* I said you better beware 'Cause I've had my share

* Hard knocks

* I walked a million miles, I bet

* Tired and hungry and cold and wet

* I heard that lonesome whistle blow

* From New York City down to Mexico

* Some kids born fancy-free

* Nobody never gave nothin' to me

* But hard knocks

* All I ever knew was hard knocks

* And I'm tellin' you

* That you better beware 'Cause I've had my share

* Hard knocks

* I Walked a million miles, I bet

* Tired and hungry and cold and wet

* I heard that lonesome whistle blow

* From New York City down to Mexico

* Some kids born fancy-free

* But nobody never gave nothin' to me

* But hard knocks

* All I ever knew was hard knocks

* And I'm tellin' you

* I said you better beware 'Cause I've had my share

* Hard knocks

* I said you better beware 'Cause I've had my share

* Hard knocks

* I said you better beware 'Cause I've had my share

* Of hard knocks

Well, well, Harry Carver. What are you doing here?

Oh, just a little routine check on competition.

Who are you kidding? We're no competition for your show.

Yeah, but you might be if you can hang on to a kid like that.

He sure packs in the teenagers for you.

Thanks. We'll hold on to him.

Well, you better. He's the only sign of life I've seen around here.

You know, I've often wondered...

Why do they call you Harry the Undertaker?

Oh, I don't know. I suppose it's 'cause I, uh,

wait for small outfits like yours to die, and then I buy 'em.

You buy after you bury.

Not always.

Carver's combined shows always has room for one more.

Would you like an offer before you go under?

Oh, Harry, that's awfully generous of you.

Well, thank you.

Is it a deal?

No.

I didn't think so.

You can't fool me.

Under that rough, tough shell of yours

there beats a heart of pure rock.

Well, thank you,

but sooner or later, I get 'em all.

I'll see you at the morgue.

By the way, uh, you're giving 'em too much butter.

Pretty hot, huh?

Yeah, pretty hot.

You really get through to 'em in there.

Thanks.

I'm Harry Carver.

Congratulations.

That don't mean anything to you?

Can't say that it does, no.

Carver's Combined Shows.

I'm a civilian.

Well, you can keep it. I've got others.

No, thanks.

We're the biggest in the business, you know.

Mmm.

You mind tellin' me something?

Just how much does Maggie pay you?

No, I don't mind telling you.

She pays me scale plus more if I want it.

If? I don't want it.

Well, why not? I'm after the hot clubs,

like Miami, Las Vegas, LA, you know.

Well, now, we're pretty hot, too.

I tell you what, son.

I'll just make you an offer.

I'll give you 300 dollars.

No.

I've already told her that I don't like carnies.

But if I go that route, I'll stay here.

Oh, well, if you get any second thoughts, you'll know where to find me.

The job will be waiting for you.

Cathy.

You going for a swim?

What difference does it make? Madame Mijanou busy?

Aw, come on. Look, I wanna talk to you.

You already did.

Cathy.

Are you cold, or do I make you nervous?

Both.

You could get a little closer, you know.

I give off a lot of body heat.

I'm sure you do.

You don't have to keep trying to prove it. Now, if you'll excuse me.

SAM: And another near miss, folks!

Oh, look at that! Almost!

And he struck out!

Sam, Joe will be here to replace you in a minute.

Thank you, Cathy. Anybody else?

Come down now, Betty.

Three for a quarter, folks! Knock the girl right into the water!

How about dunking the girl?

Anybody else?

How about you down there?

How come you're doing this?

I'm taking Betty's place. She's not feeling well.

You think you're cold now, wait till you get dunked

a couple times and you're gonna freeze.

That's show business.

Besides, most of our patrons couldn't hit the side of a barn.

Now, will you please leave? Joe'll be here in a minute.

Oh, Joe arranged this, huh?

So he can keep his eye on you. Protect you from sex maniacs.

But he'd let you freeze to death.

Oh, why don't you give up?

I never give up!

Dunk the lovely lady in the water, folks!

Three balls a quarter!

Relieve you in a minute, Sam. Okay, Joe.

Today is Tuesday.

Yesterday was Monday.

It's only two more days until Friday.

That's the rumor.

Charlie Rogers, Charlie Rogers to the skin show, please.

Who you protecting? Him or me?

Me. It's shill time.

I might as well be peddling door-to-door.

I suppose it would gripe you if I told you you were doing good.

You still wanna sign me to a contract?

That's right. Okay, I'll go.

That's a sudden change. Why?

I'm stage struck, the roar of the crowd goes to my head.

Come to my trailer.

I want to put it in writing before you change your mind.

Sit down.

Sign there.

Shouldn't you fill in the blank spaces first?

I already have. Read it if you like.

You knew I'd stay? Mm-hmm.

How?

Oh, let's just say I borrowed Estelle's crystal ball.

Maggie, you're too much. There you are.

Now go on out there and give 'em hell.

Okay, boss.

Dad, what's the matter?

You stay where you are.

How you doing, Joe?

Isn't there some kind of law

about contributing to the delinquency of a minor?

What?

I've been watching you and that kid.

Then you know he's what we need to get us out of trouble.

If I thought that, I'd throw in the towel now.

Let's get this concession going.

We'll talk about it later.

When I'm sober. I didn't mean that!

I know what's really going on in your head even if you don't.

Why not? He's young. Probably holds his liquor.

If he could rig a ride, he'd probably rig one

that wouldn't kill the customers.

Joe, that's something you can't pay for

no matter what you do or how hard you try.

So forget it.

I have.

Get to work.

Move right up here, folks!

I want your undivided attention

to one of the greatest games

on the North American continent!

You simply throw the ball, you hit the target!

Every time you hit that target

you sense the great and unique satisfaction

of dropping the little lady right into the water!

It's a challenge, ladies and gentlemen!

Here, try one, sir. It's on the house, fire away.

That's a direct hit!

But I didn't even hit it.

You're very strong, sir.

The very wind from that ball dropped the little lady in the water.

Here, three for a quarter. How about it, sir?

Anybody else? Step right in here!

Hey, hey, hey! Here you go.

Give me a dollar's worth of balls. Take care of the bankroll.

Here you are. Fire away.

Oh, get a load of old Freddie here. Wow!

A direct hit!

Step right up here!

We got a live one here. On your perch, honey.

Wait till she gets set. Fire away. Here we go.

Hah!

Freddie boy, you did it again.

JOE: Just a minute.

Wait till you get a load of this. Ah!

You kill me!

Come on, honey! You're holding us up!

Oh, I hope she can breathe underwater

because that's where I'm gonna keep her all night.

Give us a little kiss for luck, honey.

Everybody just stand back. Give me a lot of room here.

Freddie boy's gonna show you how this really should be done, huh?

I'm gonna give that broad a bath she ain't never gonna forget.

Give us another little kiss.

Give it to her, Freddie. Douse her once for me.

I will.

Freddie, you kill me. You oughta be with the Yankees.

Oh, you ain't seen nothing yet, honey.

Now get a load of this. Come on, honey! You're holding us up!

Achtung!

Hey, when are we gonna eat? I'm so hungry I could eat a lion.

Rrraah!

FREDDIE: Come on, honey, get back up on the perch!

WOMAN: She's gonna have a bath twice this week.

FREDDIE: You bet! You all right?

WOMAN: Give it to her for me, Freddie!

FREDDIE: Yeah!

I'm okay.

Take your time. I know it's cold here tonight.

Hey, fella, just stand aside. Give me a lot of room, huh?

You are very good, sir, but, uh, why don't you give the lady a turn?

Oh, I can't take a chance. She's pitching tomorrow.

That's very funny. Anybody else? Who's next here? Who'd like to hit the target?

Hey, friend. I'll quit when I miss, all right?

Now, just a minute, sir. Let me pick up some of these balls.

FREDDIE: Don't leave, folks. I'm just getting warmed up.

You all right?

He's good, isn't he? I'll be okay.

I'll get rid of him.

Come on, everybody, just stand back! Give me a lot of room here!

Say, let's see if we can get some action going, huh? Hey, anybody want to bet here?

All right, who wants to bet? Ol' Freddie's got a whole pocketful of money.

Who wants to bet she don't drown

before Freddie's good arm gives out?

I've got ten bucks says you can't do it twice in a row.

Don't bet with Freddie, son. He pitches for the Waterford County Tigers.

You're on, mac.

Give him ten bucks, mommy. There's plenty more where that came from.

Come on! Hurry up with the balls!

You're holding up the wheels of progress.

Just relax, will you? Take your time.

Want some more? Ten bucks.

All right, then, give me a little room, step to the side, thank you.

Ah! Get a load of this.

Well, that's the end of this gentleman's winning streak. Who's next?

Hey, wait a minute, that was a good hit.

Not hard enough.

I say it was.

He did something.

Why don't you just move on, buddy? You can keep the ten bucks.

That proves it. He knows you did something.

Look, I paid for these balls.

You come around this counter

and you stand right here where I can keep my eye on you.

All right, all right. Stay where you are, Joe.

Listen, I can handle this.

CATHY: Charlie, don't interfere.

Get lost, son. Nobody argues with Freddie.

You tell him, mommy.

A lot of room here. Here we go!

Aw, come on, honey, get up! You can shiver more than that. I want to get you real wet!

You said two in a row for ten bucks, right?

That's right. All right.

Here we go.

You know what you just did?

Now, forget it, mister. Here, take another ball.

That's Cathy up there, Joe.

You keep out of this!

Look, I'm a real peaceable man, son,

but I tell you what I'm gonna do.

I'm gonna pick up one more ball.

If you're still standing there after I throw it,

I'm gonna break your spine.

Give me a little room.

Oh! Oh!

What are you trying to do, close us up?

That's your daughter up there!

Sam, help me. Charlie, are you all right?

I'm all right. I'm not through with him yet.

No! What are you trying to prove? You know you can beat him.

He doesn't know it!

Okay, okay!

Thanks, fellas.

Would you do me a favor? Take your ten bucks and leave?

All right. Give me the wallet, honey.

Haven't you got it?

What do you mean, haven't I got it? I gave it to you.

Well, it must be here.

It better be. There's 60 bucks...

Hey.

Gimme the wallet.

Well, I haven't... You probably knocked it off the counter.

Knocked it off the counter! You better help me find it.

Come on, get back so I can find it!

Now, don't make any more trouble.

You don't understand this business.

Maybe not!

And I don't understand a man who would let a pig do this to his daughter!

It ain't here. It's gotta be here!

Sure, it isn't. They stole it. I know how they work.

Turn him upside down.

Aw, that wallet's a long ways from here by now.

Come on, break it up! Step back here!

What's going on here?

This bunch of carnies rigged a fight and stole my wallet. There's 60 bucks in it, too.

He put it on the counter. I saw him. Anybody could have taken it.

Yeah, anybody, and I know who.

You wanna swear out a complaint?

He sure does!

Okay, buster, you're it. Move along.

You stay here, Cathy. They can't prove a thing.

Hah!

I'll need you two down at the station.

Come on, honey.

It's all right, folks. Everything's fine.

Just go on and have a good time. Enjoy yourselves.

Hi.

Can't sleep?

Don't want to.

Bad dreams, huh?

Mmm. Nice dreams.

But why just dream them?

Where's Joe?

He's in jail. They held him.

Cathy and Maggie have been out trying to find a bondsman.

Ah, finders keepers?

What do you think?

I think you're hung up between splitting it with me

and getting a good mark from Cathy for springing Joe.

There's nothing like looking for the best in people, is there?

Don't be nervous.

Nervous? I never was.

Hey!

You want 'em selling tickets?

Now who's nervous?

Haven't you heard of rooms?

You know, those things with doors and walls?

And furniture?

Yeah.

Well, I'd like to, but I got this problem.

The first girl I ever had got me hooked on the outdoors.

The only place that she let me make love to her was outdoors in a car.

I remember the first time I tried to kiss her, she said,

"Charlie.

"Take the top down first."

And did you kiss her?

Three hours later, yeah.

It took you three hours to take the top down on a convertible?

It wasn't a convertible.

Hey...

Fine. Fine, Charlie.

But I can guarantee that there are 20 people hiding and watching right now.

Come on, let's go.

It's too bad.

The time and the feelings match,

but no dice on the place.

You louse!

So you'll dream indoors.

You know, the place with the walls and the furniture?

Get out of here!

Pleasant dreams.

You dirty...

Ooh!

Cathy...

Look, I know you're awake.

What do you want?

I want to apologize.

Have you got a list?

For what I said about Joe.

Tell me in the morning.

Stop making so much noise.

Was that you that started the jeep?

Yeah.

Where were you going?

For a ride.

At three in the morning?

I couldn't sleep.

How'd it go downtown?

Oh, they're holding him overnight.

But he didn't steal anything, I know it.

Yeah.

Good night, Cathy.

I'm heating some coffee. Do you want some?

Shy, Charlie?

Not as long as Joe's on ice, no.

You never quit, do you?

No, I never quit.

You must get your face slapped a lot.

About 50-50.

Well, I said coffee.

Fine. Just coffee.

Okay.

You know, I don't believe you're all like you talk.

You mean, there's a real me?

You oughta know. You fight with him enough.

Cathy...

Get back on your motorcycle, Charlie.

What are people supposed to do?

I don't know about other people, but you're just...

Exercising.

No.

Not anymore.

You better leave, Charlie, please.

Why, because it was good?

Because it isn't right for me.

I'm not a one-night stand.

I'm sorry, Charlie.

I like you, too.

But you're just passing through.

Yeah.

Hey, where can I find Charlie Rogers?

The last trailer back there, but you better drive all the way around.

Charlie Rogers?

He's over there washing up.

Rogers? Yeah.

We fixed your bike for you.

It's about time.

Want to sign it?

Yeah, sure.

What'd you have to do to it?

Oh, nothing. It was just out of gas.

No, really, what'd you have to do to it?

Whole new front end, new shocks, new headlamp, everything.

Watch it, over this way.

Okay, easy.

Straighten it out. It looks all right.

Whoops.

There you go.

140 dollars, huh?

Mrs. Morgan paid for it.

Good.

Want to try it out first? Yeah, follow me?

All right.

It's okay, pal!

You run that bike pretty good.

Thanks.

Think you could handle one of these?

I can handle anything on two wheels.

In there?

I don't know. I've never tried it.

You want to see how it's done?

Okay. We'll show you.

Go ahead, Gus.

Come on up here, Charlie.

You all set, Gus?

Right.

(REVVING MOTORCYCLE)

He's gotta go around a couple of times to warm up.

The takeoff is just over 40.

He can't run over the cable.

He sure looked like he was going to.

If he did, he'd fly right over your head. Relax.

Easy, isn't it?

Looks like a pretty rough go to me.

Well, it isn't.

The centrifugal force plasters you up there.

You couldn't fall if you wanted to.

I'll take your word for it, but it's not for me.

Come on. All you need is guts.

I'm a devout coward.

Besides, I'm on my way downtown to spring Joe.

Lots of luck. That's more than Maggie could do.

I found that guy's wallet.

No kidding?

Thanks for the show.

Hey, wait a minute. Watch him come off.

Want to try it?

Like I told you, I'm a coward.

Well, ride behind me then. Dames do that.

No, thanks.

Good-bye, dear.

Give me the helmet.

Don't forget. You gotta get it up to 40 before you take off.

Isn't that Charlie's motorcycle?

Don't worry, he's not gonna leave on us yet.

Well, I don't care anyway.

Of course you don't.

You'd think those idiots would get enough of that when they have to do it.

But that's Ernie and Gus...

Oh!

Ernie, how could you?

Can I help it if he's crazy? Stop worrying.

Hey, he's up to it, isn't he?

Took me three months to climb up the first time.

Hey, what's going on?

Charlie's in the motordrome.

Aah! Aah!

You okay, Charlie?

Yeah, I'm okay. I'm trying to get up.

Get his helmet off.

Yeah, he looks okay. Stay still for a minute.

How's the bike?

I don't know.

How can you be such an overgrown child?

I'm just lucky, I guess.

You dropped your wallet.

He dropped whose wallet?

Isn't this yours?

It belongs to the guy that got in the fight with Joe.

Oh, Charlie!

Found it under the counter and I was on my way downtown to turn it in.

Yeah, that's what he told me.

Charlie, when did you find it?

Last night.

And you let my dad sit in jail all this time.

What difference does it make? It just gave him a few more hours to dry out.

That's something you don't do to another carny, fella.

You all right, Cathy? I'm fine.

ESTELLE: Good luck, Charlie.

Hey, Maggie! I want to talk to you.

Okay, I handed over the secret plans.

I took the 30 pieces of silver.

Now, what is this?

Something I guess never touched you, Charlie.

Feeling.

For this? A broken-down setup for taking money from kids and farmers?

For a man who has two women carry him around on their backs?

For anything.

I guess I pegged you right the minute I saw you.

I just didn't want to believe it.

I'm supposed to live up to some cooked up notion

of the kind of man that you're looking for?

You're a cruel boy, Charlie.

You must have been hurt pretty badly.

You better save all that understanding

for this freak show because you're gonna need it.

You're not gonna try and prove I'm wrong?

No. You wouldn't believe me.

Cathy might.

You don't stay where you're not wanted.

Do you think she'd get this upset if you weren't wanted.

You can hold me to the contract, but you don't have to play a violin.

Wait a minute.

You're not, by chance, wanted anyplace else, are you?

You're getting warm.

Harry Carver. Right.

So it isn't pride, just money.

That's right, Maggie. Just money.

I won't hold you.

ESTELLE: Joe!

Just a minute.

Those cells get cold at night.

But sooner or later, they spring you

even if somebody does ditch the evidence.

I'm leaving, Joe. You don't have to worry about me anymore.

Get off the bike.

Aw, come on. Give me the key.

You don't have to prove nothing to me, Joe.

What are you doing?

Get up.

Get up!

CATHY: Dad! Dad, stop it!

Dad!

Do you feel better, Joe?

Get out of here.

Where can I find Harry Carver?

Over there in the theater.

Thanks.

Where's Harry Carver's office?

Upstairs, third floor.

Here you are.

I'd like to see Harry Carver, please.

Do you have an appointment?

I don't have an appointment, but he gave me this card.

Well, well, look who's here.

File this, please. Come on in, son.

Doris, hold all my calls.

Well, sit down, sit down.

Would you like a cigar?

No, thank you.

Well, I've been expecting you.

I didn't expect to be here.

I knew that you couldn't stay with Maggie and Joe.

Especially with Joe.

I might have.

Yeah, but you didn't.

They got the kind of operation where they say the show must go on.

And you wanna know why?

More or less, yeah.

Around here, there's just one reason the show must go on.

The gross.

That's why I'm here.

Let's see, what did we say? $200...

400.

Your memory's as lousy as mine, it was three.

Make it 350.

Now, don't push, son.

I mean it. I don't care, you know.

Yeah, you probably don't.

All right.

Sign right there at the bottom.

After I read it.

It's the usual standard sheet.

Eleven weeks.

And there's a little paragraph there that says you pay a penalty

of half of what I've given you if you cut out.

Half?

Well, you left Maggie. You may leave me.

Nah. I don't like the idea.

Of course you don't...

But otherwise, it's no deal.

Okay.

(CROWD TALKING)

Hurry, folks, follow me right this way,

to the biggest and the greatest show on the midway.

Direct from the banks of the River Nile,

we've brought you the favorite of the pharaoh.

She zigs, she zags, the girl never lags.

Six bits, 75 cents, three measly little quarters

will buy you a chance to see the little girlie.

And I'm gonna bring her out right now.

And here she comes, the little lady that does the dance of the pyramids.

The one, the only... Little Egypt!

There she is, folks. She walks, she talks,

she crawls upon her belly like a reptile. Watch her now.

That's enough, honey. Don't give 'em too much.

You there, young man! Step right up and get yourself a ticket.

There you go. You just bought yourself a trip to paradise.

Now, who's next, folks? Step right up. Plenty of seats on the inside.

It's show time! The big show right here on the midway.

Step up, folks.

* I went and bought myself a ticket

* And I sat down in the very first row

* They pulled the curtain

* But then when they turned the spotlight way down low

* Little Egypt came out struttin'

* Wearing nothin' but a button and a bow

* Singin' ying yang

* Kootchy, kootchy, kootchy

* Ying yang

* Kootchy, kootchy, kootchy

* Ying yang

* Kootchy, kootchy, kootchy

* Ying yang

* She had a ruby on her tummy

* And a diamond big as Texas on her toe

* She let her hair down

* And she did the hootchy-kootchy real slow

* When she did her special number on her zebra skin

* I thought she'd stop the show

* Singing ying yang

* Kootchy, kootchy, kootchy

* Ying yang

* Kootchy, kootchy, kootchy

* Ying yang

* Ying yang

* She did a triple-somersault

* And when she hit the ground

* She winked at the audience

* And then she turned around

* She had a picture of a cowboy

* Tattooed on her spine

* Saying Phoenix, Arizona, 1949

* Yeah, but let me tell you people

* Little Egypt doesn't dance there anymore

* She's too busy moppin'

* And takin' care of shoppin' at the store

* 'Cause we got 7 kids

* And all day long they crawl around the floor

* Singing ying yang

* Kootchy, kootchy, kootchy

* Ying yang

* Kootchy, kootchy, kootchy

* Ying yang

* Ying yang

* Kootchy, kootchy, kootchy, kootchy

* Ying yang

* Ying yang

(APPLAUSE)

Real good.

Think they're trying to tell us something?

Oh, don't let it go to your head, son.

I've seen 'em do the same thing for performing seals.

Why don't you send one out next show?

Hey, I'd like to. You know, you can pay them off in fish.

Come on, you've got the kids going. Give 'em an encore.

Nah. Always leave 'em wanting more.

Ladies and gentlemen, step right up.

Try your luck! It's easy, it's fun, and everybody wins!

Three balls for a quarter!

Hey, mister, let your little boy try.

How you doing, Sam?

Pretty grim.

Three balls for a quarter!

Twenty-five cents! Get your balloons!

Selling anything?

It's a blank.

Don't say a word. Wish I didn't have to.

Then don't.

The bank has a deadline for you, Mrs. Morgan.

Now, you know the agreement.

You were supposed to make monthly payments on that judgment against you.

I'm doing the best I can.

Not many young people around.

I can't handcuff them and drag them in if they don't want to come in.

I'm told you got them for a while with that young singer.

Your books show a few profitable days.

Well, that was three weeks ago. He isn't with us anymore.

That's too bad.

I guess it's going to have to be a court order.

You can't convince them we're worth more alive than dead?

I'm sorry, Mrs. Morgan. I wish I could help.

All right.

Go on back to that nice, clean bank of yours

where it looks like nothing bad or sad

or personal ever happens.

I'm sorry.

Any luck?

Nothing.

(WITH ACCENT) Young lady...

Come in! Come in!

Let me show you what the gods have in store for you.

Knock it off, Estelle. You know I don't believe that stuff.

Who does?

But you got anything better to do?

Okay.

Come into the occult chamber.

Make yourself comfortable.

Madame Mijanou tells all

about the past, present...

All right, Estelle. What do you want to tell me?

Wait.

For you I see a journey. Soon. Very soon.

At the end will be someone very dear to you.

I'm not going anywhere.

To the Carver Show.

You better get your crystal ball fixed. You're wrong on both counts.

Listen, Cathy...

There was nothing between Charlie and me.

I was willing, but he just couldn't see my charms.

So?

So don't act like I'm talking about Einstein's theory.

I know how you felt about him.

Please, Estelle.

And I know how he felt about you.

That's why I couldn't get to first base.

Well, honestly, I don't care.

Then why don't you go get him back?

Now, I just told you, I don't...

Not for you. For the show.

He can wail, and the kids loved it.

There hasn't been a spending teenager

around this place since he left.

I couldn't. Cathy, he's a louse.

He uses people. Why not use him?

No.

You've got a family to support, kid.

Your dad and Maggie...

And I don't want to go back to some tea room reading coffee grounds.

Think it over, but think it over fast.

We're drowning.

* Big love

* Big heartache

* Big love

* Big heartache

* Big love

* Big heartache

* Oh, yes, I know it's true

* The more you fall in love

* The more your heart can break in two

* Big love

* Big heartache

* Now that you've said good-bye

* For every tender kiss

* I count the tears I cry

* I gave my heart and soul

* All the love I knew

* Oh, how much it hurts me now

* To know that we are through

* Big love

* Big heartache

* I'll always feel this way

* My arms will be so empty

* Till you return someday and say

* Your love

* Yes, your big love

* Will be here

* To stay

* Until then, it's

* Big love

* Big heartache

* Big love

* Big heartache

* Your love

* Yes, your big love

* Will be here

* To stay

(APPLAUSE)

Now, son, they're in trouble, and she's just here to try and get you back there.

Everybody's not as big a crook as you are, Harry.

Well, everybody tries.

Here, go out there and take a bow. Go on.

(CHEERING)

Hi, Cathy. Hello, Charlie.

You were awfully good.

Thanks.

Well, I meant better than...

You have a real style now.

How are things?

Everything's fine.

How about a coffee? Sure.

Charlie, next show in 15 minutes, you know.

I'll be there. Hello, Mr. Carver.

Well, hello, Cathy.

How are your folks? Joe and Maggie, that is.

They're fine.

We'll be upstairs in the coffee shop, Harry.

Table, Charlie? Not right now, thanks.

I wanna show you something. Come over here.

Well, this certainly is a far cry from our show.

It's a long drive over here, Cathy.

I know.

Well?

Now, listen, Charlie, the reason I came over

was to tell you that I'm sorry about what happened.

I know Joe made it tough on you,

and I don't blame you anymore for letting him stew in jail overnight.

You didn't have to drive over here just to tell me that.

Well, I wanted you to know.

How are things with the show, really?

Maggie says the only suckers left are the ones still in the business.

She's right.

Well, they want new things and new people.

That's why you were...

Well, I mean, actually, that's the only way...

I'll tell you what, Cathy. Wait till my last show and we'll go somewhere and...

Talk it over.

Oh, wait a minute, Charlie.

The real reason I came over here

was to try to get you to come back to the show,

no matter what I had to do.

But I just don't have the guts.

I wish I did.

I know exactly what's going through your mind and the answer is no.

It'll kill Maggie to have to give up.

Who are you kidding? You're not worried about Maggie. It's Cathy.

So, what's your problem?

You want the girl, just say, "Cathy, I love you."

Like the grownups do.

You don't have to prove you're a knight in shining armor.

You're a carny, Harry. A rich one, but a carny.

You should understand.

Well, I do, and I kind of feel guilty about it.

But not enough to help, right?

Look, I learned to feel guilty in comfort.

That's how I got to be a rich carny.

I'm going back, Harry.

Oh, no. No, no, you got a show to do.

Oh, the show must go on, huh?

No. Just the money.

I have to leave tonight so I can be there first thing in the morning.

You forget one small detail. I'll sue you and take half your salary.

Remember our deal? Yeah.

Okay. You paid me $1,050, right?

Right.

Here's 50. I owe you the rest.

Hey, wait. I see a lot more in there.

It's gonna stay in there.

You... But...

Are you Maggie Morgan?

Yes. Here you are.

I'm sorry, Mrs. Morgan. I'll need a copy of the current inventory.

JOE: What the hell do you want?

To help out if I can.

You should have thought about that before.

I didn't come here to save face for you, Joe.

Get out of here.

I can't let Maggie go down the drain without at least trying to help her.

I told you to get out of here!

Joe!

Get out of here!

He had a little accident.

I'm sorry, but he jumped me again.

You're damn right I did.

If you're still here in five minutes, I'll do it again.

Dad, can I help you?

Leave me alone. Why did you come back?

Oh, what's the matter? Why can't you for once say what you really feel?

You can send this vulture home now.

I'd like to, but it's a little late for you to be a hero.

We can make this place go, Maggie. I know we can.

As one of the creditors, I think I'm entitled

to ask what did you have in mind?

I'm buying back my contract.

Here's $1,000.

You think that'll hold 'em until I can prove I can make this place pay off?

Now, wait a minute. Do you mean that you're gonna stay here?

That's right.

Then I think it might work.

At least it's worth the try.

I'll talk to my people about it.

Good luck.

NIELSEN: You'll be hearing from me.

Is this the only reason you came back?

Practically. You see, I knew that...

Say it straight just once.

Okay. I came back because I wanted to.

And because I knew you were stuck and I thought I could help.

And?

And because I love Cathy!

Well, you don't have to holler at her.

We got work to do. Wait. Joe?

Let's get this show moving.

If you used the energy you spend trying to be a louse...

Stop picking on him.

Here ya are! Here ya are! Here ya are!

The big show is about to begin!

He's back, he's ready, and here he is now...

Charlie Rogers! Let's give him a hand!

* There's a brand-new day

* On the horizon

* Everything is gonna be just fine

* There's a brand-new day

* On the horizon

* And the whole world's gonna be mine

* I'm gonna tell ol' trouble

* He'd better be movin' on

* Happiness is gonna take his place

* Around here from now on

* The old dark clouds are gonna roll away

* And the sun is gonna shine

* And the whole world's gonna be mine

* I'm gonna chase away those blues

* Till they're out of sight

* And I guarantee you, honey

* They won't be coming back

* Well, don't you know I said

* Everything's gonna be all right

* 'Cause the whole world's gonna be mine

* I know my luck's gonna change

* Just you wait and see

* Startin' tomorrow All the good things in life

* Are gonna come to me

* There's a brand-new day

* On the horizon

* And the whole world's gonna be mine

* And the whole world's gonna be mine *