Original subtitles

So you are that Plaček?

Yes.

I hear you know all about Smíchovský.

You were recommended to me.

He's a very peculiar character, isn't he?

I haven't met a more intelligent person.

That doesn't mean he isn't a crook.

- What are you taking to him? - He asked for a couple of old books.

Of course. His little books.

Put them on the table.

He might show up later.

You think he's sleeping off a hangover?

Smíchovský's been arrested. For exceeding his authority.

And abusing Jews to his benefit.

Actually, I'm waiting for you, Plaček.

You are a pretty curious Jew.

The others have already packed, but here you are, all cozy like.

While the fine sons of the Reich bleed on all fronts,

the two of you are out stealing.

Mainly books.

Junk from synagogues or the property of Jewish families.

But that's beside the point.

Everything, absolutely everything is kept in order here.

These days, Jews are not allowed into the library,

let alone steal from it, Plaček.

I don't steal.

I know you're only doing what he tells you.

There's a way to save your life.

Why did he choose you?

- Are you having an affair? - I'm married.

So is Smíchovský.

You can tell me.

Whether a Jew, a fag or both,

these days it's all the same.

We've known each other a long time.

See, I was right.

Tell me what I need to know,

and I might go easy on you.

Have you had any homosexual experiences?

Me? No.

And could you imagine yourself having an affair with a man?

Not really.

Well, it would be better for us if you could.

You're good-looking. Got any girlfriends?

Most curious. How old are you?

Nineteen.

Nineteen?

Have you ever met such a man?

Could you recognise one? They often look feminine.

You would be perfect.

Did anyone say come in?

I'm in a rush, Štěpán, I'm sorry.

May I?

- I need something from you. - Right, but we're busy.

Care to introduce us?

Comrade Josef Šábe, from the party's records department.

And this is Vlastík. My new colleague.

We are rather busy, here.

I sent you some ideas for cooperation through the secretariat.

- But you're too busy to read them. - Well, there's a lot of work to do.

You could use a better office girl.

Or an office boy?

What did you write to me about?

The same thing again. Smíchovský.

He's busy right now.

He isn't in Pankrác anymore.

- Where's the collaborator at, then? - That's classified.

- And who decided that? - I did.

Do you own the man? I desperately need him for a case.

As if it were only up to me.

See the secretariat and ask whose work is more important.

- So you won't lend him to me? - I'd like to, but I can't. Sorry.

What will Slánský say about this intrigue?

Just ask around. You'll be surprised.

Ignorance.

That'll be our downfall, Vlastík.

Well, at least Šábe helped us get to the heart of the matter.

I'm sure you've heard of Jiří Arvéd Smíchovský, Vlastík.

I've read something in the papers.

We have no better material witness.

But for Šábe, he's just a monster that eats other monsters. Understand?

Smíchovský...

requires special treatment.

But should Šábe get his hands on him...

We all have our guilty pleasures.

It's just that Smíchovský's isn't exactly kosher. Get it?

Yes.

I didn't choose you for nothing.

Maybe there's something inside of you that you don't yet know about.

We need him.

New trials are underway. Without him, it'll be tricky.

- But I'm really not... - You know what an order is, right?

Yes. But I really am not... that type.

I believe you.

But would you admit it if you were?

How far you let him go is up to you.

Act the part. Pretend.

You must have seen Oldřich Nový in the film Christian?

Let him be Christian. And you will be Mandlová.

That's how it is in his world.

Let him seduce you. String him along.

I've read he's been summoning the devil.

You don't believe that, do you?

Well?

Arvéd! You asleep in there?

On the contrary.

I was having a great time.

- What do you think of him? - Why are you doing this?

Did I surprise you?

That makes me happy. For once you failed to read my mind.

I don't reckon you're giving him to me as a plaything.

Why wouldn't I?

How sweet.

Sweet?

Funny.

Such is the nature of our work.

I'm still getting used to the fact that you can do anything.

I, Jiří Arvéd Smíchovský, put a spell on thee,

spirit of the fire who decides all things,

to banish all malevolent spirits,

so they do no harm unto us.

God bless this spirit of the fire.

Sanctify it, make it blessed.

In the honour of thy sacred name, protect those who carry it.

Oh, Jesus,

light of the earth!

Oh, Christ,

light of the heavens!

Oh, Redeemer,

the light that shines in darkness!

Lend thy blessing to this flame.

Oh, Jesus,

bless this flame thyself,

so it cannot be rendered harmless and extinguished by evil spirits.

Oh, Jesus,

may thy holy name watch over the flame,

so it is blessed for eternity.

Amen.

We've been here before.

This has happened before, hasn't it?

Smíchovský.

I've been looking forward to this.

Do I surprise you? What's the matter?

Take a deep breath. It'll wear off soon.

I take it you're missing Plaček?

You're putting on a great show.

How many times has it been?

And now to the finale!

But repetition jogs the memory.

And with every rerun, the show plays out ever better.

Štěpán! Come on, show yourself.

Don't bother.

I think he's finally where he always belonged.

Do you know what déjà-vu is?

It works great.

I agree.

So, where is he?

In custody. He's facing formal charges, a trial, prison.

Who knows? Others will decide.

We mustn't forget this has happened once before.

Have you gone mad?

Times change, people change, but the plot remains the same.

You must respect the rules. Come out, Štěpán! Come out!

You hear me? We've played this all out before.

Sit down!

You promised! Will you give it to me, or do I have to take it myself?

What are you... Do something, damn it!

Help the doctor onto the chair.

Give him a handkerchief.

You know Plaček well, don't you?

You know what a bastard he is.

I've never had a problem with him.

Zionists have infiltrated the departments like rats.

Speak. Did he spy for the German information service?

To call attention to himself? Why?

After all, you're German, too.

You enrolled with them.

Did he not work for you?

Did you know he's collaborating with Tito?

What of his acts against the state?

- Your life is at stake here. - Sort it out in that place of yours.

That book is mine.

- Oh, come on! - He was supposed to give it to me.

Why would he do that?

He promised it to me for helping him... For helping you!

Should I feel moved by the gesture?

You too might need me someday.

Fancy prison is over, Smíchovský.

We shall cooperate on different terms.

I have something special for you. They will take care of you there.

Still don't believe me?

Are you serious?

In the name of the Father,

in the name of Jesus, son of God, our Lord,

by the power of the Holy Spirit, I, Jiří Arvéd Smíchovský,

invoke you, the four kings of the world.

King Uriens, from the east. King Amaymon, from the west.

King Samael...

King of the Wind...

You, the Duke of Water...

All formed of the four elements,

and those inherent to you

by the holiest of holy names!

Ehjeh ascher ehjeh!

Smíchovský!

Plaček surprised me.

He loves these cagey goings-on.

And you're also one of his fine works, father.

Assuming you're actually a priest.

Let's see who knows the Holy Word better.

- You'd probably win. - Probably.

Nobody knows the Bible like I do.

Name the book, chapter, line

and I will recite it word for word.

But do you know which Christian book

fascinates people more than the Bible?

The Malleus Maleficarum.

- We've never accepted it as ours. - Don't be a hypocrite, father.

Weren't the two authors both Dominicans?

Just like you?

Times have changed since then.

Our Hammer of the Witches is the law protecting the Republic.

And prison rules, doctor.

Does nothing come to mind, Holy Father?

With your education I'm sure you have read the part

on judicial proceedings, torture and punishment.

Don't you play a part in what transpires today?

- We managed to learn. - You managed to teach others, too.

- Blessed be the betrayer. - You can't blame us for...

Is the guilt making you turn the other cheek?

- We weren't... - God willed it?

This is demagoguery.

- The things happening now... - Are different. I know.

It's not like I'm blaming you.

I've learnt things as well.

You'd have me banished, but to Plaček, I am a godsend.

To sell one's soul to power is the saddest thing one can do.

He needs me.

And he's willing to pay.

Thirty silver coins.

No point in being uptight here.

I might shock you.

He offered me a cherub.

Should I tell you about him?

How heavenly blue his eyes are. And the angelic curls. And that arse!

- Stop. - Plug your ears then!

Envy is a sin.

It's just a game. And this dirty cell merely a stopover.

Know where I'm headed from here? They're already preparing my supper.

My cherub is preparing the bed,

warming it with his body,

and he's waiting

for me.

- Doc, get up. - And come with us.

What would you say to a little trade?

- You hearing this, Franta? - Oh, you!

It won't be a promotion,

but a little money on the side doesn't sound too bad, right?

A good cigar or cognac.

You know I always have the best stuff.

- For what, eh? - Tell me what's next.

You hear this, Franta? What a fellow.

- What d'ya mean? - When will I go back?

Like, where?

Home. To my suite in Hotel Esplanade.

You know what Art Nouveau is? The best medicine for this filth.

You know Doctor Plaček?

What's so funny?

Finally home.

Are you Dr. Jiří Arvéd Smíchovský,

born 1st May, 1898,

of the Roman Catholic persuasion,

married, sentenced by the Extraordinary People's Court

to life in maximum security?

I am.

You must speak the truth.

However, you will not be taken under oath.

Did you know that Franz Kafka worked as a clerk

at the court in Prague?

They dealt with a miscarriage of justice.

Have you read his Trial?

It's a timeless book.

It seems that what people used to see as absurd

is becoming commonplace.

The time we live in...

Get hold of a copy. You can read in German, right?

A little.

I have one in my library, I can even help you,

if there's anything you don't understand.

But Kafka is clear and easy to follow.

Truth is so relative.

I could tell you about that.

Do you think your case was a miscarriage of justice?

As our comrade Plaček would say, that is not the question here.

Do you want one?

You have eyes of a child looking into a fire.

The cigarette.

The most crucial fashion accessory.

There's nothing better than strong Egyptian tobacco

with a drop of opium.

Have you ever tried opium...

Vlastík?

It has a curiously sweet smell.

You won't mistake it for tobacco.

- You do have any opium? - Sorry?

- Would you like to try it? - I'm just curious.

Ask Plaček, he can get you anything.

- Are we waiting for someone? - I'll be taking care of you today.

Scared?

Have you directly witnessed any event

which would establish the facts of the criminal case?

I can only repeat

I have often met with the defendant at the Sicherheitsdienst bureau.

He informed my employers about certain Czech journalists.

He got many into trouble.

What was your impression of Chloupek then?

He seemed a loyal citizen.

He was even licenced to carry a weapon.

His visit to Slovakia after the rebellion's defeat

looks incriminating.

He got files from the resistance headquarters

and handed them to the Germans.

State secretary Karl Hermann Frank came by them.

They were used during interrogations.

Can you add anything about the defendant's character?

He said he'd make matters worse for the resistance

and boasted about it in his parlour.

I was there and can attest to it.

Is there anything else?

In 1944, he was decorated with the Eagle of St. Wenceslas.

Then he got drunk and locked himself in a bathroom.

I was there, just by coincidence.

I heard him crying through the door.

And...

How do you know it was him?

I waited for him to come out.

By then, he was fine again.

Calm, orderly. Nobody would've noticed.

How is this related to our trial?

It isn't.

Then, please, set aside any personal judgements

and leave this to the experts.

I wish to point out to the jury

the witness has confirmed, by his testimony,

instances of the defendant committing various crimes.

Such offences necessitate only the maximum penalty.

- Any questions from the lawyer? - Yes.

I want to draw attention to the fact the witness

has been convicted of collaboration.

He was proven an informer in court.

And proven a confidante of the Gestapo

and he prepared compromising materials

on Czech Masons and Sokols.

My question: how credible is the testimony of such a person?

Can the Prosecution respond to the objections?

Dr Kozák's jury addressed these charges in 1947.

The proceedings were documented.

Apart from the accusations that led to the conviction,

a great many witnesses testified in Smíchovsky's favour.

Can deliberate construction of the testimony be ruled out?

He was recommended to us by trustworthy state bureaus.

Besides, he testifies...

Any questions from the Defence?

No.

What now? Where will you accommodate me?

- As usual, doctor. - Really?

I don't even know where my home is.

- Anything else you require? - Some meat for dinner.

Can you do that for me?

You know what these scribbles are, right?

Of course you do. You are a Jew.

How is Smíchovský involved? Why is he so obsessed with it?

What does he want?

I don't know. I really don't.

They're just religious texts, the Kabballah, alchemical formulae.

How come he's so posh now?

I heard his father disinherited him.

What is he looking for in these books?

I feared you'd left me there to rot.

Where?

Celebrating?

I had one to aid digestion.

- Got something for me? - It's just this triviality.

Some honorary department officer.

And some refreshments. But save them.

Resources are running thin.

No prescription or directions for dosage?

Who are you working on?

We understand each other.

We always have.

People like us can smell each other.

Intelligence is like cologne.

That's kind of perverted.

- What about Chloupek? - The noose.

With an audience.

They moved it because of the tickets.

At one point I was worried it'd turn sour.

- When the lawyer went against me? - No.

So when?

When you started with that bathroom story.

Nothing but the truth.

Humanity makes things more credible, Štěpán.

Nobody's simply a monster.

Next time, no psychological games.

The court is a theatre.

Roles are given. People know their lines.

You sure do, but the person in handcuffs?

I can feed them their lines.

- Do you know the whole archive? - Even the National Library.

- Protocols or novels? - Anything you need.

Even if it's the next Švejk book.

Of course. Excellent. Please, go ahead.

So here we have Doctor Smíchovský with his ingenious sequel to Švejk.

My version starts in 1939.

Švejk is invited to the Wilson Hotel.

The Gestapo tell him they know about his war activities,

that he is a deserter and spy who is going to rot in jail.

But they also make it clear

that the drop of Aryan blood in his veins could save his life.

They take him to the office and it turns out

he's occasionally devoted to the Führer.

He's able to cooperate with them. He enjoys talking to people,

learning new things from them.

And doesn't mind sharing with the Reich.

They won't hang you for this, that's definitely crucifixion.

People love Švejk.

I love the chapter

where he serves a Gruppenführer and ends up in Mathaussen,

and there he meets Otto Katz,

whose Jewish ancestry was finally discovered.

They talk about the good old days,

but then everybody has to go to the showers.

Švejk says:

"Oh yeah,

hygiene.

That's incredibly important."

I have plans for you.

Changes are coming. We'll soon sweep the Interior.

Slánský is behind me. Without him, Minister Nosek won't do a thing.

And whoever controls security controls this entire state.

So what shall you ask of me?

I have something for that head of yours.

It fascinates me what it can do.

And what do I get?

- Have something in mind? - You know. Always the same thing.

- Did you bring anything? - I'm offering you a chance.

You should grab it by the horns.

We all have our methods.

- The books I want... - Is your brain going soft?

- I'm offering you much more... - More?

What is more than that?

It's called a binding contract. Nice word, eh?

I am preparing terminology for the ministry.

This will be ours. Only for us.

I never wanted anything like this.

Think I'm doing this for myself? This is your insurance.

So I sign it and kiss your hands?

We're drawing up lists. There will be arrests.

You have a great memory. But can you think rationally?

How do I sign then? In blood?

I've always told you what I want.

If it weren't for me, you would've been hanged.

You forget quickly.

- I've paid back all favours. - So is it my turn?

- Want more souls? - You and your religious education.

I sell you the souls of sinners for the books of your brothers.

- They are not. - You still have it in you.

You can't get rid of it.

- What could they say? - Got a bad conscience?

Are you scared of them?

Why?

- Because you saved your arse? - What?

- Thanks to a collaborator. - Shut the hell up!

Did they leave through the chimney? Nobody lived? Not one?

A soul for a book?

Well...

A good deal, isn't it?

Right?

Here you go.

Now it is your turn.

- Did you speak to the Devil? - I don't know who it was.

He offered me anything I wanted.

What did he want?

I don't want to go back. Why are you doing this?

Fun has its limits, Smíchovský.

- Shut up! - Or you'll end up in the pit.

They'll come for you too!

Hey, snap out of it!

- Apage, Satanas! - Come on. Want to get into trouble?

Come on.

This place is getting to you.

Drink.

Drink.

Everything will make sense soon.

What kind of sense?

Don't you want to see the devil?

No.

Aren't you strong enough in your faith?

Such a test might strengthen it.

Isn't it worth a try?

You're a fine devil's advocate. But I'm not interested.

Who do you serve? Do you know?

A myriad of God's images exist.

Which is the true one?

All of them that speak to us in love.

And forgiveness.

So appearances matter?

Well...

Empathy does.

There are masters who can...

Have you seen Leonardo's Last Supper?

- Only a copy. - I've seen the original.

- Really? - In Milan.

There's everything in that painting.

It was created in modesty.

And to His glory.

Maybe it doesn't celebrate Him.

Who, then?

Leonardo was a man like me.

That is true.

But look at what he's left us and what you've done.

He wasn't just a genius.

He was also a "Florenzer".

A sodomite.

Schwuchtel.

A faggot.

A homo.

- How else should I say it? - You just twist everything.

He was investigated, based on an anonymous tip,

at the age of 24 for an affair with a 17-year-old model, Jacopo.

And he was monitored

by "Ufficiali di note e conservatori dell'onestà dei monasteri",

the Florentine moral police.

There you go.

I see a celebration of God.

Who looks like the young Jacopo.

It's late. We must sleep.

- The Jews banned representations... - Good night.

Writing of the hawk in such detail

seems to be my fate,

as my oldest childhood memory

is one of a hawk flying to me,

sticking its tail into my mouth,

and wriggling it there.

Shut up!

Shut up!

Those were the words of master Leonardo.

Something is telling me I am headed to the fluffy duvets

of my Esplanade Hotel suite.

You know you are.

- You can finally tell me now. - Tell you what?

His holiness, Father Zenek.

- What about him? - He's one of you.

- How'd you find out? - I can sniff out a clergyman.

Who is he? A comedian? A collaborating actor?

You always figure everything out, doctor.

He is...

Vlasta Burian himself.

- And I didn't recognise him. - Right? He can play any role.

He could fool anyone.

You look great in that jacket.

Ever look at yourself in the mirror? Do you find yourself attractive?

- There's nothing special about me. - Of course there is.

And you know it.

Have you got that Kafka yet?

Not yet.

To my left.

You can take it.

What do you normally read?

Magazines, mainly. And the newspapers.

You need more than that to hold a conversation.

- We read poetry on the course. - Really?

- What poetry? - S. K. Neumann, for example.

Recite me a few lines.

- I don't remember them. - At least one stanza.

- I really don't. - Vlastík...

One rhyme.

Please.

Alright, I won't push you.

I believe in Satan,

whose Pride is Wisdom

and Life.

I believe in the creator of the good Mother Earth.

I believe in the creator of Love,

Hatred

and Passion.

He rules from the abyss, reaching the stars,

spherical music - the hiss of his blood,

music intensely swirling through the canopy of stars

and those of men

and the soaring fires of suns.

I believe in his son,

in Man,

who famously metamorphosed from forms in the Earth's depths

and was made for joy

and battle

and power,

multiplying in pride and freedom; the beauty of his soul

like a peacock's tail

across the Sun.

I believe in Satan the Father

and I believe in his Son,

I believe he will break down the dark tombs of Misery

and place himself

and himself only

at the centre

of the whirling wheels of unfettered life.

They probably didn't teach you that.

But this, too, was Stanislav Kostka Neumann!

His Glory of Satan Amongst Us.

And this is for you.

What a lovely specimen.

Right, Andulka?

It needs a bigger pot.

He's waiting for you.

Close it.

This is for your ears only.

A man of your standing, afraid?

It's not fear, just caution.

Don't you trust your subordinates?

Sometimes I don't even trust myself.

What?

Rough night?

Bad sleep.

Sit.

Are you alright?

I do everything you ask.

Of course. You know what's best for you.

I have other options.

Of course. Everything's in the books.

You just need the right one.

I probably can't convince you, but you won't convince me either.

What's the matter?

You hit the bottle last night? Or two?

Why?

Don't be anxious. Everything is fine.

We need to help each other. Just don't lose your judgement.

- You promised to help me. - I am helping you.

- But you're not taking me seriously. - I do what you ask of me.

I prepare everything, testify.

I just don't walk them to the gallows.

That's the problem.

We need to trust each other.

You keep acting as if you had an ace up your sleeve.

You're imagining things.

Just you and me.

I'll give you a chance to convince me.

I have some photographs for you.

Take a look.

Shall we recall these old friends of yours?

Christ's weapons on my chest

as the sign of the Cross.

Free me, God, from enemies both visible and hidden.

Might of the Father, be my shield.

Wisdom of the Son, teach me.

Love of the Spirit, enlighten me, Jiří Arvéd Smíchovský.

And I, Felix de la Cámara.

I, Nikolaj Alexejevič Muchin.

I, František Kabelák.

And this?

I, Emanuel Felmer.

You wouldn't recognise him.

But he still has that stupid look on his face.

This task will be a test. Just to make sure I can trust you.

You can't ask that of me.

And why, may I inquire?

He didn't do anything.

You once told me

that from a certain point of knowledge

we move beyond boundaries of good and evil.

- Do you remember? - You memorised that?

I'm trying to work out what makes a perfect testimony.

It's best when the defendant convicts themselves.

When you convince them that it's in their own interest.

But right behind it is another type,

woven from hundreds of little things.

It doesn't stem from the truth but precision.

In details that can be proven.

I'd like to try that one. Such a thing might come in handy.

He never meant a thing to me.

Prove it then.

I know nothing about him.

You can come up with something that makes sense.

The infallible devil of Lesser Town delivers another testimony.

And receives a reward.

Jan Kefer's bookplate.

That should be a sign of quality, right?

Will you give it to me? Can I take it?

- Have you earned it? - Let me touch it.

- It's up to you when you get it. - Let me smell it at least.

Old paper smells so nice.

Not even the finest wine can match it.

- You want it, right? - Please.

I'll only touch it.

Pay attention. Listening?

There's nothing easier. Agree to do it and then do it.

What is it? Are you sick?

Don't send me there again.

Don't ask me to do this.

- Did you take something? - Promise me.

- How much did you take? - Won't you ever forgive me?

- Calm down. - I won't go there again!

Understand?

They'll kill me.

Doctor?

Doctor?

- What just happened... - You saw it too?

I don't know what I saw.

What was it?

Astral fluid.

A genius revealed.

Did you speak to the Devil?

- I don't know if it was the Devil. - Who, then?

- He offered me a trade. - What kind of trade?

He promised anything I ask for.

- And what did he want for it? - A soul.

A regular human soul.

- Your soul? - Who'd want my soul?

I have to betray a friend.

In the name of Jesus, son of God, our Lord,

by the power of the Holy Spirit, I, Jiří Arvéd Smíchovský,

invoke you, the four kings of the world.

King Uriens, from the west. King Paymon, from the east.

King Egyn, from the meridian. King Amaymon, from the west.

King Samael... You, Azazel, Duke of the Wind.

- You, the Duke of Water... - Stop it.

- Sleep on! - You know how this ends.

Are you allowed to perform exorcisms?

- Don't be silly. - Only madmen survive here.

Before an exorcist discerns the presence of Satan,

he fixates on mental health. But you know that.

And no exorcist is allowed here.

You've perfected it across the years.

What is the better diagnosis? Possession or insanity?

There is a third option.

Reason and sound judgement.

You haven't seen God, yet you rely on him.

But I have seen the devil.

Who should I trust?

You, or myself?

You love the printed paper, too, monsignor?

As if touching the bodies of angels in the most secret of crevices,

with the finest skin.

You know what this is.

Do you ever pray for the Jews?

They might need it soon.

Get up. Wakey wakey.

Come on!

- What are you doing, doc? - What was this ruckus at night?

We are just people, too.

My colleague's wife is ill, it's looking really bad.

- Vilda, please. - See? He's got lots of problems.

And you won't even let him sleep.

His nerves also have limits, doc.

He's filed a complaint against you.

And I can't really blame him.

You used to be fun. One could even learn things from you.

Exactly.

- Let's go. - This is no pleasure for us.

Move.

You off to squeal, cunt?

- What was that? - I just coughed.

- Want some sick leave? - Back to your chores and shut up.

- Grab the bucket. - And let's go.

Good morning, doctor.

I'm sorry, but we're due in court.

Any idea where I was last night? Did somebody switch places with you?

I think he was wearing a uniform.

Eat your breakfast. We need to go.

How about not going there today?

Have you started that Kafka?

I'm trying.

The jailers...

In that book...

Don't they remind you of somebody?

Maybe when you get further

into the book.

What do you make of me?

That the newspaper stories aren't true.

- You've read something about me? - I don't believe a word of it.

Could there be...

Could there be something more...

Something more...

Something more between us,

Vlastík?

What do you mean?

Did Plaček ask you to pretend you're in love?

Why do you think that?

When Bert Walden played the lover, he was genuinely in love.

But when you pretend you're interested in me,

you're a hopeless amateur.

- You can't get into the role. - You're imagining things.

You wonder how somebody like me can work for state security, right?

- I don't know about that. - It's easier that way.

All people lie, Vlastík,

but only a few lie so well that you really believe them.

Talking about me?

Does it feel that way?

I'm no exception either. I lie.

Perhaps better than others.

Sometimes, memory is a curse.

One can easily lose one's mind.

Know that me and your boss have a very special relationship.

- We're just playing a game. - He told you about me?

He offered a beautiful pawn in exchange.

But why did he tell you that he'd told me?

But I'm not saying he told me.

First of all, we need to calm down.

We mustn't overthink this. That'd be dangerous.

To live for the day

is the only thing that matters,

to live in utter peace

and wish for nothing more.

A Zen Buddhist text.

Repeating these words turns them into a mantra.

They can halt the mind.

I didn't want to lie to you.

If only we could do just what we wanted.

Shall we go?

Tell us everything you know about the defendant.

I can testify...

that during Protectorate times,

the defendant often came to the office where I worked.

He collected data from agents and passed it on.

Many Czechs were charged because of him.

He informed for rewards.

He infiltrated occult circles and pursued Czech hermeticists.

He incriminated people!

He was placed in Dr Kefer's cell as a confidante.

He has a share in his death, too.

He incriminated Karl Weinfurter, who died of pneumonia after release.

All perished because of him.

Do you miss the cameras and spotlights?

No problem. I'll arrange for them next time.

You promised me something. I want the book.

- You'll get it. - How much longer shall I wait?

I'll send Vlastík for you in the morning.

You've kept up your part of the deal. You're ours now.

That person at yesterday's court...

He was about your age when we met.

- He looked a lot like you. - Why are you telling me this?

So you understand why Plaček chose you.

You wanted me to believe I was a pervert. But I'm normal!

We're all perverts in some way, Vlastík. You, too.

Just differently.

It put up a struggle.

Smíchovský.

I've been looking forward to this.

Do I surprise you? What's the matter?

Come on, sit down.

- We've been here before. - I'm sorry?

This has already...

happened before, hasn't it?

Take a deep breath. It'll wear off soon.

- Sure, it's not exactly the same... - I take it you're missing Plaček?

You're putting on a great show.

Both of you. How many times has it been?

And now to the finale!

But repetition jogs the memory.

And with every rerun, the show plays out ever better.

Štěpán!

- Come on, show yourself. - Don't bother.

I think he's finally where he always belonged.

Do you know what déjà-vu is?

It works great.

I agree.

So, where is he?

In custody. He's facing formal charges, a trial, prison.

Who knows? Others will decide.

We mustn't forget

this has happened once before.

Have you gone mad?

Times change, people change, but the plot remains the same.

It's a performance. And you must respect the rules.

Come out, Štěpán! Come out!

You hear me? We've played this all out before.

I want to know everything. Why is he so obsessed with it?

What does he want?

I don't know. I really don't.

What is he looking for in these books?

They are just religious texts, the Kabballah, alchemical formulae.

How come he's so posh now?

His family is wealthy.

I heard his father disinherited him. He's getting money somehow.

Do you think it's possible he's taking bribes?

Talk! Do you want to die for him?

He only wants the books.

They say he's an unscrupulous extortioner.

Does he coerce people?

You only need to nod.

You only need to nod.

I couldn't bear it any longer.

I was in the Ständetheater last night, watching Bert Walden.

His Faustian monologues were just colossal.

I'd have taken you with me, but it was just for Aryans.

We had a little drink afterwards and we came up with this idea.

You should've seen yourself.

He never forgave me for that.

What a cruel joke.

Now he's getting his own back.

His cupboard's taller, team bigger and time is at his disposal.

We all answer for our actions.

Do you know what I miss the most?

The admiration of society.

And the smell of opium.

You can't give in.

They had crystal chandeliers in one Prague winery.

The cut glass tears hung from the beams.

I would steal them.

I dangled them from a lamp at home like trophies.

And it wasn't just the wine, of course.

My sister tried to bring me to my senses.

She waited for me one night.

She found my old army uniform in the wardrobe and put it on.

Pike grey.

I wore it before mobilisation to Italy.

The front was no place for me.

I deserted after a couple of days and hid in a monastery in Pisa.

Your brothers took good care of me.

Do you know whose whore I was first?

Whose arsehole I licked?

She surprised me.

She was seated at my typewriter,

an empty sheet of paper in front of her, a pen in hand.

I thought my past had caught up with me.

The times took a toll on everybody.

Everybody.

- It's never too late... - You won't make a martyr of me.

You are to blame as well.

You kept telling me that I'm the devil's work.

I had to beat myself up over it.

Repent.

Admit I'm the worst of the worst.

Or I could blame the world.

And find my own God.

The one opposite to yours, of course.

Who accepts me.

Who doesn't judge me.

There's only one path left for you.

Humility.

You can't deny my right to choose after all I've experienced.

Back in 1939 the Gestapo told me in the Wilson Hotel

that as a spy I'd go to the death camp.

I was digging my own grave in a park during the liberation.

Before then, I'd never held a pickaxe.

But with a shotgun pointed at you, you can do miracles.

It was like a shooting range.

Without my friends, it would've been my end, too.

In May, they promised I'd hang.

- That's enough for one life. - Stop with the self-pity.

It won't help you here.

You well know what you did.

You shall ask for forgiveness.

You must've had a reason to study at the seminary.

There must be an ounce of faith left.

Come on.

Try to find it.

Go back to the start.

Have you gone mad?

Why would I?

Is it even possible?

Do you know how many people I've helped hang?

Forty-nine.

The last one was a friend.

Do you understand?

Only one more to hit fifty.

Who should I give to the devil to get my wish?

Blessed be the day, the night, the hour,

when our Lord, Jesus Christ, was born of the Virgin Mary.

In the name of the Father the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Bless me and my companions, Holy Virgin Mary.

Amen.

Let's go!

So we meet again, Smíchovský.

You might be wondering why I've come all this way.

The reason is simple.

Sit down. Let's talk calmly.

Maybe I could do something for you.

Why would you do that?

How about a nicer prison?

I could get you more visits.

Perhaps a packet of cigarettes.

Cigarettes.

Cognac.

And what about a suite at the Esplanade Hotel?

It was you who sent me here.

You have a good standing with the supervisors.

You're an industrious finger-pointer again.

They're trying to kill me.

And that surprises you?

Lots of people would love to see you hang.

You didn't make many friends at all.

Would you believe that plenty of people still fear you?

They're scared we'll suddenly pull you out.

You need me again?

What is it this time?

I didn't expect you to be this resilient.

- Plaček is on his way out. - He sent you to me?

Well, he's always been the smarter of you two.

You don't believe your friend is done for?

You wouldn't recognise him. He's a mess.

He is in solitary, writing apologetic pleas.

Whose payroll are you on?

Who do you work for?

How he ends up also kind of depends on you.

- You two have unfinished business. - Oh?

He's not playing along?

Tell the people who give you orders they have no chance against him.

They warned me you'd gone mad.

Forcing somebody to confess isn't that easy, eh?

There is some art to it.

Only in Russia do people voluntarily confess

like an opera singer on stage, singing an aria.

- Plaček is done for. - Yeah, right.

Would you be here were it that easy?

I have everything in here.

I am one of the best informed people in the country.

My hands worked documents you haven't even dreamed of.

And how is your memory?

You never learn.

I've got you in my grasp. All I need to do is squeeze.

Times change.

Now, they'll teach you your testimony like algebra.

Nobody knows such methods better than Plaček.

I'm guilty because from the beginning

of my tenure at the Secretariat

of the Central Committee of the Communist Party

Security Department I...

...facilitated the activities of Anglo-American, Yugoslavian

and other enemy spy agencies

that were sent here.

I covered up activities by Trotskyists, Zionists,

bourgeoisie nationalists and other enemy groups.

I disrupted the security apparatus...

...by personally, and with the help of others...

...appointing unreliable and hostile people...

...to leading positions...

...or people incapable of combating...

...the enemies of the Republic.

Disruption of the security was also facilitated

by my employment of foreign methods...

...learned from Gestapo officers.

I also suppressed the Party's security activities.

How long will it take you to memorise that?

You pathetic creature.

- They forgot to hang you. - Careful.

That's not how it goes. You have to stay in character.

You haven't seen real prison yet.

You'll be the next person to see it.

You don't have to worry about me.

I still know more than enough.

One day I'll choose my own prison.

But maybe I can help you.

You have something I want.

Do you remember? The book...

But if you've destroyed it, I will leave you to your comrades.

Guards!

Guards!

Get up!

Zenek.

Where are you hiding your prayers?

No idea.

Is the preacher hiding something, doc?

You ain't no believer.

Don't make our job more difficult.

You've been a true friend today.

I'll never forget it.

Thank you.

You are so trusting, holy father.

What if I'd told them about that treasure of yours?

They might just be pretending.

- How would you benefit from that? - I would gain your trust.

Why would you tell me this?

Because I know it doesn't matter whether you know.

Why prevent me from finding even a trace of goodness in you?

Lots of people are asking for you these days, doc.

Everybody's mad about you.

- Where are we going? - Straight ahead.

We are to give you something. A package from Prague.

They seem to care about you a lot.

Just more work for me.

Is it a book?

Good old nosy Doctor Smíchovský.

We'll leave it a surprise.

Smíchovský.

Do I surprise you? What's the matter?

Come on, sit down.

We've been here before.

This has happened before, hasn't it?

Sure, it's not exactly the same,

but your timing is immaculate.

I couldn't bear it any longer.

Arvéd!

This is the end!

You've won. You have endured.

You didn't let us break you.

Here you go.

You have waited long enough.

Hau Ath Zael Tetragrammaton...

I summon you by Jehovah, Maschilie, Adonai.

I invoke you, the four kings of the world.

King Uriens, from the east.

King Paimon, from the west.

King Egyn, from the meridian.

King Amaymon, from the south.

You, Samael, King of Fire.

You, Azazel, Duke of the Wind.

You, Azael, Duke of Water.

All formed of the four elements,

and those inherent to you

by the holiest of holy names!

Ehjeh ascher ehjeh!

By the number of Kether Eljon.

By the order of Chayot Ha Kodesh.

By the sphere of Primum Mobile Rashid HaGilgulim.

By Duke Metatron.

By Jod Tetragrammaton, and the number of Chochmah...

What are you doing?

Writing a letter from the front.

To whom?

To my sister, of course.

Aren't you writing it to yourself?

She's waiting for it. She's probably worried about me.

You think so?

So who do you think I am?

- You aren't here. - But I am here, Arvéd.

Then you're only a spectre.

A double.

I might be from a different timeline. From the future.

- Looking into the past. - Or you are looking into the future.

- Stop it. - What are you afraid of?

- You. - Of yourself?

- Are you drunk? - Yes, that too.

Why do you keep doing this?

I guess I've overdone it.

How's he doing?

Bad. But I can help him.

Save it for somebody more useful. He isn't important.

Let him snuff it like this.

I bind you to come, by Michael!

I call you to come to my circle

and do what I ask!

I am the first to call you as surely as Amen.

Valla, Baphiare, Magot,

Phaebe, Baphia, Dujam.

Adonai, Rafael, Šadai, Vagoth,

Amat feliciter Barach.

Come! Come! Come!

Rafael beoti Oseth sabathos Agla,

hinos Rex Amon,

latte, sabathos hoc kata paladis.

Come! Come! Come!

Come! Come!

I bind you with the names of Adonai, Agla,

Yehoshua, Marguel, Gratiel,

Elibat, Tetragrammaton, Magoth...

Have no demands!

Where is Smíchovský?

What does it mean?

How did this happen? Who gave the order?

We need Smíchovský!

Resuscitate him!

Get ready to transport him!

It's too late.

Who wanted him?

The order came from the top.

Idiots...

I'll put you all behind bars.

I've never seen anything like this.

DR JIŘÍ ARVÉD SMÍCHOVSKÝ DIED ON 22 JANUARY 1951.

THE CEMETERY HE WAS BURIED AT WAS ABOLISHED AND HIS BODY LOST.