All language subtitles for Alfred Weidenmann-Der Stern von Afrika (1957)

STAR OF AFRICA

Luftwaffe War College

Number six ready to descend.

- Number six ready to descend.
- Permission to shoot!

Number six, allowed to shoot.

NCO Droste failed. Next!

Number seven ready to descend.

- Number seven ready to descend.
- Permission to shoot!

Number seven, permission to shoot.

- Who is that crazy pilot?
- Petty Officer Marseille, major.

- Bullseye.
- I saw.

Marseille, you should be grounded.

This is the Luftwaffe and not some flying circus!
You can pull these stunts elsewhere.

Weren't you taught the proper procedure?

Yes, but I thought the closer I got to the target, the better.

So, you thought?

So, Marseille, I advise you to think less and to follow the rules more.

Another slap on the wrist, Marseille.

And not worth it if you think about it.

How so? I got a little low. What's the problem?

That's what I told the nail before hitting it on the head.

Forget the jokes. This is about me.

Everyone fouls up sometimes, but Marseille does it all the time.

That's because you make more blunders.

Attention!

Joachim, come here.

- It's a pity.
- I don't think so.

- You heard about my foul-up?
- You bet I did.

I wish I was more like you.

Every night I ask God for a little more discipline.

If this keeps up, they'll let you go.

It's so good to be up there in the sky, all alone ...

Tomorrow, more flight training. That is what is good.

Hello, can you help me? Can you tell where I am?

- This is the village of Kirchdorf?
- Yup.

And that hill over there?
What's it name?

- Bredenweiler Kopf.
- Okay, Bredenweiler Kopf.

So I was right. Thank you very much.

- What happened?
- Excuse me, I'm leaving now.

What impudence! Landed in the road.

Never seen anything like it.

- Did something happen?
- No. but it will.

He has no excuse landing the plane on the road, does he?

Of course not, but I just wanted to say ...

We grew up together, lived in the same building.

- Marseille is a dedicated pilot.
- Yup ...

Maybe a little impetuous. With a difficult temperament.

Joachim, do not look at me. I feel like crying.

Let it be. The man is right.

Think I will be grounded?

Don't ask me. If it were me, I'd be on the street by now.

When I think about not flying, it drives me crazy.

'... Says the poor child full of repentance.'

Enough of these poems, I can not stand it.

- Company. Order.
- Damn!

Petty Officer Marseille, I am obliged to impose a severe punishment.

Remember that if you commit a similar error again
you will be washed out immediately.

Grounded for four weeks. Return to formation.

Lieutenant Gitt, dismiss them.

- I do not know how to thank you, Robert.
- Right face! Forward march!

- Petty Officer.
- Colonel.

- Do you know that your cap is crooked?
- No, Colonel. Excuse me.

Remember that you are a future officer. Act as one.

And now a special report on the situation in Danzig and Poland.

- Hello, Mr. Kulle. Any news?
- It's okay, thanks.

- What do you have to say about this?
- What situation?

The government gives its position once again.

The Polish government should send a negotiator to Berlin ...

Haven't you been listening to the radio?

- The situation appears to be serious.
- Such things are always happening to someone.

Today was serious to me.

- The Journal. Anything new?
- Not yet.

- Hello everyone.
- Here, son.

Hello, mother. Guess what I got.

They are beautiful. Must have cost a fortune.

Hello, Dad. Of course not. I know the florist.

Just a second. Excuse me.

- For you, aunt.
- Thank you, darling.

How are you, father?

Still bringing work home?

It has to be, but I'll stop for now.

When I'm home you won't, right?

Robert and Marianne should have arrived.

Hello, Robert!

We're coming.

Can I take my coat off or is there some colonel behind the door?

They have not helped my life.

- What happened?
- Don't worry.

You always worry me.

Planes are not the problem, just the officers.

You got something against pilots, aunt?

Pilots are wonder but remind me of puppies.

A dog can be trained to do tricks,

but does not know how to use his head.

What would we do without the wisdom of the elders?

And without your coffee ...

That will be Robert and Marianne.

- Hello, Marianne.
- Hello, Joachim.

If not for him, I'd be in big trouble.

Very big trouble.

- How come?
- Stop.

How come? I'm just telling the truth.

- Hello, Mrs. Marseille..
- Hello, Robert. Hello, Marianne.

If not for him, I wouldn't be flying.

And not even I know why they let me take leave.

You always do something.

You know I always do something, but not always the right way.

But I admire those who always do what is right.

You and Robert, for example.

Don't you see how he had the good sense to marry Marianne?

- Sit down, Lieutenant.
- Thank you.

Robert has two things that I envy.

Marianne and he always knows what's right.

Do not underestimate yourself.

And do not overestimate. Keep that in mind.

Maybe he should follow Robert's example.

- He is a young sensible...
- Oh, and I'm what?

- You do not quite know what it is you want to be.
- I just like being.

I don't have much more time, mother.

I still want to go sailing with Robert and Marianne.

- Do not spend too much time sailing?
- We go every Sunday.

- Here she comes. Hello, Beate.
- Hello, Joachim.

- Hello everyone. - Why did it take so long?

- You do not have to meet any schedules.
- The bicycle broke.

I had to come by bus. I brought cake.

- Hello Marianne, Robert.
- Hello, Beate.

- Where is Hoie?
- Waiting on Nikolskoe.

- Let's dance. - Wonderful.

- Hello, Joachim.
- There are the others.

Sommer and Droste. Here's half the Luftwaffe.

- Heard on the radio today?
- No, what?

- We go to war.
- They are canceling all leaves.

- You already knew, Robert?
- I've been listening to the news all day.

- War? It is true?
- That is what the radio says.

Soft conversation. Come on.

But war came, and the whole world changed.

It was like having two faces and now you show only one.

The black face, cruel and merciless.

The streets were laid waste, the houses burned.

The sky was obscured by clouds of smoke.

Destruction and ruin. First in Poland ...

Again in France.

And the war continued.

The German planes flew over the English Channel.

Faith in German victory silenced the voices of fear and conscience.

It was a tragic time for German youth

Who blindly flew toward destruction.

Bullseye.

That's your third. Congratulations.

Tonight, you pay for drinks, Joachim.

Dora 3! Dora 3! Robert, what is it?

Dora 3! Dora 3! Hit in the engine. I'm going down.

What do they say?

Still not found.

How come? I saw him go into the water.

Someone must have already found him. I told them where he was.

Still missing, Marseille. Search and rescue is continuing to look.

Remember that it's getting dark.

They still should be able to rescue him.

I have this, this and this.

Pay up, gentlemen. Another game?

Of course. Shuffle.

Can we turn off the music?

- How come?
- Because I can not stand it.

Let's stop for today.

- This does not look good.
- So what did you think?

No, we keep looking....
Be quiet.

Can you tell me what you were expecting?

You shot down four planes. I have five, you have two.

Sorry, three for Hoie.

But the other side also has victories.

Part of life. They also slaughter.

Turn on the music.

- Marseille, we found him.
- Is he alive?

- Where did you find him?
- On the beach. It the Coast Guard.

I'm so glad you're alive. I hdad almost lost hope.

It was close.

If you had not come back, I don't know what I would have done.

- You had to be rescued.
- It makes me very humble.

Something happened, Robert?

When swimming at night ... No, but well ...

You don't know whether or not they will find you.
You do not see nor hear anything.

- You only see water around you.
- But we found you.

It's okay.

Robert!

Now went into the Navy? How was the water?

Next time, we'll see if you shower or use a bathtub.

The experts say that there is nothing better than cold water.

Thus the poet speaks!

Know the latest? I have not told anyone this yet.

We're being transferred to Africa.

Prepare for palm trees, the desert, the Arabs, the harems ...

- Africa? Good.
- We can't drown, just die of thirst.

Africa, ... At least that's what I've heard.

We went through Paris and saw beautiful women.

- Robert, let's get Marianne.
- Marianne? Where?

To Paris. We could find a way.

- If we could ...
- Why not?

- Paris is wonderful.
- I only know this room.

The hotel rooms in Paris are beautiful. Together.

The hotel rooms in Paris are beautiful.

And our maid?

When I said I was your wife, she was shocked.

It was a novelty.

We have no more time. Joachim is waiting.

- Do you play?
- Kind of.

- Want to play with me?
- It will be a pleasure.

Oh good ...

Robert ... you know we have not talked about it ...

You fear that I bring the matter up.

- Not sure what you mean.
- Yes, you are.

- Don't you likethe idea.
- What?

- The war.
- What about it?

I should not have come here. Now, it's all the more painful.

- Are you French?
- Is it important?

No.

It's astonishing. Waiter, some red wine.

- You want something?
- No thanks.

If you'll permit me.

It's amazing, we live in a world where everyone must be identified,

where we try to put labels on all people.

I think you should be labeled an idealist.

Really? Why is that?

I do not know, but it's something that suits you.

And is that bad?

No, no, no. Not like that.

It looks like you're ready to shoot a gun. Gently.

That's better.

Now, to answer your question,

idealists have just as much good as bad.

I always feel sorry for them.

They are always so lost in the world, or so it seems.

Thank you, waiter. To her, monsieur.

- You're a professional player?
- Yes, yes.

I spent many years looking for an occupation, and here it is.

It satisfies me fully and I do not hurt anyone.

You could say it's a weakness in my old age.

What do you think about the war?

I think nothing.

If I told you, I'm sure you would not understand.

(Here he is.)

And this? Now playing billiards.

Joachim, here's a Curtis and a Hurricane.

Take care of them.

- Excuse me.
- I have been slaughtered.

- Hello, Joachim.
- Here you are, Robert.

Please excuse me now.

It's time to go, Robert.

I know. Marianne goes with us to the airport.

Right. A little more time together.

- You want to play? - Yup.

It is terrible.

The key. I almost forgot. I'll be back at Christmas.

Terrible? What?

It's terrible to think that an old man like me

will almost certainly live longer than these young people.

- Enemy aircraft on the right.
- Right. Attack.

Elbe 14, ready to attack.

Attention!

What's happening?

Continuing to fight upstairs.

How long have they been up there?

Not left with too much fuel.

Five Hurricanes towards Sidi El Barrani.

They still have a lot to do. How are the others doing?

Elbe 14 shot down two.

- Good luck.
- Thank you.

You need to have someone rescued?

Not yet, Captain. They are all still in the air.

- Joachim, behind you.
- I see him. Thanks.

Elbe 14, hit in the engine.

What is it?

- Elbe 14?
- The engine is overheating.

14 Elbe, Danube here.

A forced landing? Your position? Answer.

Danube, Elbe here. Location: 90km west.

I'm going down.

Shit!

We should teach him to be civilized on the radio too.

I leave that to you.

What interests me is that they return safely.

Abati, the first at 12:02. A Hurricane. I did not see the pilot bail out.

- It was beautiful.
- You're lucky to be down in one piece.

I came down here, one way or another.

- What was the second?
- Another Hurricane, at 12:10.

How does it feel to hear the angels sing?

If this keeps up, soon you'll sing with them.

My mother used to say, 'Son, why do you always have to break everything?'

What do you say? Lucky again, no?

You are a very lucky man. How many kills?

- Two.
- I shot down one.

- Look out!
- How is it that I can never catch up?

Joachim, you scared me to death.

Death is part of the life of a fighter pilot.

What are you talking about?

This morning you were flying like a crazy man.

It was as though the enemy had rubber bullets.

How do you do it?

I flew to the middle of the formation and started shooting.

It's crazy.

- Petty Officer Marseille!
- Major?

Reportedly shot down not two but three planes.

Your plane was also hit.

- Come over to my tent shortly.
- Very well, Major.

- Whose dog is this?
- It's mine, sir.

- It's a mutt we found.
- A mutt? So it seems.

Did you hear? Go to his tent? What does he want from me?

Here's what I would tell you to do, you fly like crazy.

Nice to see you again, Marseille. I thought you might need to be rescued.

Thank you, Captain. I am fine. Maybe next time.

Tea again? Nothing else?

The beer delivery man did not come, Hoie.

So this is the great German Reich?

Who's there?

I'm cadet Klein. Assigned to the Third Squadron.

This is where I sleep.

Since when do we have a dormitory for children?

Did you also bring a small airplane to play with?

I do not understand. Excuse me. I do not know ...

I'm Petty Officer Klein. I'm new here.

Yes, that is what it looks like: new. Aren't you too young?

It's true. Very young. Don't you think?

Just out of graduation. Still has iron creases.

It's true.

It's flawless.

Excuse me, but I do not understand.

Tell us what you think you're doing here.

- I'm a fighter pilot.
- Do you think we should believe you?

I just got out of the academy.

At first, they miss school and their care-free childhood.

But it goes away.

And we'll have to fight the British alone.

- Over there there is a free bed.
- Thank you very much.

Excuse me, I noticed that you just got back from a mission.

- Did you shoot down any enemy planes?
- Yeah, two.

What a marvel. I've never seen one.

You will see them.

We expected someone like you.

- Seriously, Lieutenant?
- Leave him alone. He's stll ...

Nervous? There are few people who get angry as well. I know some.

- Mansfield.
- Yes, major.

Tomorrow morning at eight, we'll escort Stukas

and Italian bombers against Tobruk.

Tomorrow morning, escort to Tobruk.

It is your responsibility.

- Petty Officer Marseille reporting.
- Come in, dear sir trouble.

I suppose you know why I asked you here.

I'm afraid not.

This is not the first time you've been singled out for attention.

No it is not.

That was what I found when I studied your file.

I must admit that is one of the most impressive in the Luftwaffe.

Yes, major.

Stop bowing and scraping, Marseille.

- Tell me something: you like living?
- Yes, major..

You fly like you're on a suicide mission.

Yes, it's true, Marseille.

You fly into the middle of an enemy formation without considering the danger,

as if they were no more than a flock of pigeons...

...then come back full of holes. But tomorrow you may not get away.

Captain Rosenberg has to go pick you up.

- Is that what you want?
- No major.

As your commander, I should be giving you a pat on the shoulder, Marseille.

But I will not do that.

Allow me an analogy.

I ... feel like a father with many children

You want success for all of them.

However, I am afraid of losing one of them.

I think a lot about my children, whom they are ...

and what will become of them.

That's why I worry about you and what you want.

- Can you tell me?
- What do I plan to, major ...

I want to fly and shoot down planes.

That's not enough, Marseille. More will be expected of you in the future.

A fighter pilot must know that he flies with death.

To survive, he must have that inner strength...

that rises from the depths of our being and makes us responsible.

So, let's turn to another subject.

You've been an NCO in the Luftwaffe a long time, so I've decided ...

to promote you to Lieutenant. Congratulations.

Thank you, Major.

- I'm happy for you.
- Thank you, Captain.

I'll send a bottle to your tent.

- Congratulations, Marseille.
- Thank you.

- I also want to thank you.
- How come?

About what you just said ... about children.

We're losing one pilot after another.

- What did he say?
- I don't know. I failed Arabic in school.

It is true that Marseille has broken all records?

Impressed?

I realize that it's quite difficult. I mean ...

We're up there, alone, on our own ...

we have to do everything right.

Not difficult at all! It's just point and shoot.

Our enemies are always very angry with us.

You mean it's always like this?

Every day. You should pay more attention.

Sorry.

- But Marseille is the same ...
- A Hero?

I'll tell you one thing. He wants the Knight's Cross.

We all do so let's not talk any more nonsense.

What is this? A new record? Where did it come from?

- I brought it.
- It's my favorite song.

If you want ...

... I give it to you.

That's not necessary.

Just now, I was promoted to lieutenant. The youngest in the Luftwaffe.

Congratulations, Lieutenant.

Thank you. Tomorrow, you will fly with me.

Sure, Lieutenant.

Are you okay, Elbe 3?

Thank you, Elbe 14.

Elbe Anton to squadron. No private conversations.

Elbe Anton from Elba 14. Hurricanes sighted at 11:40.

Request permission to attack.

Elbe 14 from Elba Anton. Go ahead.

Others continue with the Stukas.

Elbe Anton to squadron: Climb.

Elbe 3 from Elba 14: stay with the squadron.

Something happened.

Two British planes there!

How is Elbe 14? Where is Elbe 14?

Look behind you!

- Elbe 2 shot down one.
- Where is Elbe 14?

What happened to Marseille? Hit?

Where is Elbe 14?

- Where?
- 24km east of Sidi El Barrani.

Elbe 14... Elbe 14, I have to make a forced landing.

You were not hard to find. I just had to follow the smoke.

Glad you found it, Captain. Thank you.

You really did a spectacular job.

As usual, no one was hurt.

I am fine. Abati, four planes.

They already informed me.

The first time I shot down four planes in one day.

- Now I know what it is.
- What?

- Being a fighter pilot.
- Well, it seems so.

- We still have time to go get another one.
- One of ours?

- Lieutenant Marseille reporting.
- You brought cadet Klein?

Yes, sir.

Tell me Marseille ...

- What happened to him?
- Nothing, major.

Congratulations on the four planes you got.

Thank you, major.

We pulled the Hurricanes off him twice.

They attacked him as if he were the only one,

as if they knew he was new.

We will not finish our chess game.

I can play you.

Today, we got a replacement: Cadet Weiss.

Dicky Weiss, student. Aeronautics.

I'm a beginner.

- You can say that again.
- Where do I sleep?

We've had a vacant place for you since morning.

- I hope you enjoy the view.
- Thank you.

Think the war's getting to him?

This is your new plane, Lieutenant. Brand new, a perfect engine.

Want to test it?

What? No, not now.

Joachim ...

What do you want?

I was looking for you.

I want to say that moments like this ... are very difficult for us.

What times?

We start questioning everything, don't we?

I'm not thinking about anything. I do not want to think.

I feel bad about that kid. But there's nothing I can do.

What else can I think?

I am happy when my plane is in order, the oil pressure is good...

and the engine is running smoothly. What else can I think?

- What are you thinking?
- Me?

I know you feel fear, since you spent the night alone in the channel.

Out here, you can not.

I do not want to know what fear is.

You should get rid of it ...

This habit of thinking.

Going to the club tonight? It's going to be great!

Of course.

All of you?

Matthias, how's it going? Dance for us.

Look at that! The young man is amazing.

If he wants a job, we'll take him.

I don't see anything. We have no time.

- This happen often?
- We live with danger.

My mom thinks we must be bored.

What is it?

- How are you, Sommer?
- I am fine.

- Eight aircraft for Elbe 14
- That's a record! Eight in one day!

Fantastic job!

And now the news about the war in Africa.

A young fighter pilot for the Luftwaffe, Joachim Marseille, ...

shot down hit his 54th enemy aircraft.

The Führer will decorate him with the Knight's Cross.

We can be proud of our son.

Did you hear that, mother? 54 enemy aircraft.

- I don't know about this. I think ...
- I'd rather he come home.

Me too.

Joachim always wanted to succeed.

It was always so.

I wish it were not.

Congratulations, Marseille. I wish you the best for the future.

Squadron attention! Thank you very much. Dismissed!

Attention! Eyes right!

The best, as always. Never second-best.

What a beautiful medal, Joachim.

Gives you an air of class.

They put a medal to his chest. It must be the largest.

- Quoting Ringelnatz?
- No, me.

- Just a minute.
- What? A speech?

Having already gotten one award...

Another award ... from the squadron to Joachim Marseille.

Not yet.

As you can see, we spared no effort in...

Get to the point.

...a fine example of organization. Enter.

A party with entertainment in your honor.

Let's take a more relaxed greeting. Like this.

Cook, prepare drinks and fun. Show them.

The British counteroffensive now attacks with force.

With an overwhelming superiority on land and in the air,

they attack the soldiers of Rommel.

Tobruk fell.

The enemy armored divisions reached Benghazi.

But thanks to a shrewd combat strategy

German forces inflicted heavy losses on the British.

Our fighter squadrons are waging a heroic battle

although outnumbered by the enemy.

They noticed.

The Afrika Korps remains intact

and continues to fight with courage and an indomitable spirit.

The man is right. Where did I put my fighting spirit?

I hope I have not lost it.

Soldiers have the utmost confidence in their commander

... Field Marshal Rommel.

Its Panzer Division spreads death and destruction.

The smoke that rises from burning British tanks can be seen for miles.

German artillery relentlessly bombards enemy positions.

I do not have to explain the situation.

We do not have enough planes.

Equipment is worn out and there is little fuel.

Now, German forces are outnumbered 10 to 1.

I understand that I am asking the impossible...

but we have no choice.

Twenty enemy aircraft in three days!

Got five.

- What's this?
- War news correspondents, Lieutenant.

- Congratulations, Lieutenant.
- It was nothing special.

No shadows.

Would you mind saying something?

Excuse me but I have somewhere to go.

I really don't have anything to say.
I'm only good at shooting down planes.

Look at that. An interview with the hero in action.

Enters combat with a smile, the portrait of a hero.

That's all for now.

He is very photogenic.

This is exactly what people need to see in the newsreel.

- Congratulations, Joachim.
- Thank you.

- Why are you looking at me?
- This is too much for you?

- Just because of this?
- It's not just because of this.

Have you seen the newspaper? Joachim is on the front page.

- Show me.
- What a political symbol.

I can't listen to this any more.

Let's hear it.

'The courageous young fighter pilot, Joachim Marseille.'

- Stop.
- What?

'In Africa was born a star.'

- What nonsense.
- And modest.

Leave him alone.

The reason I think we are all here for is...

- I bet you're going to say 'duty'.
- Yup.

- You are right.
- Matthias, cognac.

There are no unknown soldiers.

We are all war heroes.

That is the second for Elbe 14.

- One hundred airplanes!
- Another medal for Marseille.

Elbe 2, beware! Enemy aircraft.

Thank you, Elbe 14.

With them coming from all sides, I don't even know where to look.

Elbe 2, Elba 2. What's with Elba 2?

Elbe 2 here. Hit in the engine.

Attention, Elbe 2.

Get out of there! Bail out! Jump!

I can't. Canopy jammed.

That's how things are.

We kill them, they kill us.

- It is a kind of game.
- Stop.

Why? I can't speak the truth?

It makes you feel better, rather than looking at an empty bed.

But they did not catch me. I do not know why.

Yeah, boy. He's gone.

And will not return.

I think now we can remember him in the little things

and send them all to his dear mother.

- Stop it, Droste.
- Yes, Lieutenant.

You know we all feel very... You mean ...

- What I mean is ...
- Can't I finish a sentence?

What difference does it make? All of us ...

You, the Joachim, Robert, Werner and I ...

We're all a bunch of sentences suspended in the air.

What happens is that sometimes, even God stutters.

What is it?

- Can't you hear the planes?
- There are planes, is the wind.

- But ... I thought you would have heard them.
- It was only a dream.

How about a poem?

- I have one in mind.
- Leave us alone.

Oh war, oh war.

Oh, angels of the Lord, rise up against shame in tears ...

But this is war.

And I only wish to not carry this guilt.

Marseille, what you doing out here?

Nothing, couldn't sleep. Where is the dog?

I heard barking and went out to look for him.

Come with me. I can never get to sleep before dawn either.

Sit down, Marseille. Want something to drink?

Yes, whatever you have.

You get to go home to get another medal.

That takes your sleep?

I am very happy,

but that isn't why I can't sleep.

How many missions have you flown?

Exactly 212.

The Americans send their pilots home after 50.

There is a reason.

It is because they are finished.

I know it's possible. But something is different.

What I feel is different.

So far I have shot down 100 planes and killed so many men.

They are dead. Tomorrow it could happen to me.

I am depressed about dying.

Everything can end so quickly,

what's the point?

What does it mean?

- No, no, Marseille ...
- You are laughing at me.

No way. Where did this question come from?

I don't know. I never thought about these things.

Not long ago I started to see them always before me.

The boy, when we found him in the desert ...

I remember his arrival. He was just a kid.

I remember his words ... Then I saw him dead.

And all the others who were slaughtered.

Today was Sommer's turn.

Tomorrow will be someone else's.

But nobody ever says anything. That's how things are.

Do not think of things like this.

Think of life.

It seems to me that no one does not want to talk about it.

You can't, Marseille. Here, you have to fly.

- Thinking is ...
- You say I should not think.

Any soldier, be it German, French, English or another

hates war, since he has a heart.

You must hate it because it is dirty and degrading.

I admit that I myself hate it.

Whenever I go out to rescue most of you, I hate it even more.

But I can not do anything about it. Just this.

Do not misunderstand me.

I am not a ... a pacifist.

But when a man dies in the name of a cause,

this is, after all, a sublime contribution.

If it is because of important things, freedom, justice and ...

And ... This war is not for these things?

You can go, Marseille.

Yes ... But I will not sleep any better.

Good night and a special thanks.

It seems all the same.

Every Wednesday, as always.

- That's funny.
- How come?

It's as if nothing had happened.

Almost as if there's something sinister.

- Don't you like it?
- Of course.

It's wonderful to be home.

I have the strange feeling that one of my lives is a dream.

- Is it this or Africa?
- Our house is never a dream.

I'd rather stay home.

- Then do.
- You know I can not.

I have a press conference. It's the weight of fame.

Yes, you're famous. You may not realize to what extent.

I see you everywhere. Newspapers, newsreels ...

All our neighbors are proud that you lived here.

- Are you proud?
- I guess ...

That's good.

I have to go.

I have a feeling I'll be treated like a movie star.

It is an honor to have you with us today.

It is with great admiration that we all follow the stories

his brilliant exploits against enemy forces

in combat and face to face.

We are proud to welcome him as an example of heroic German youth

The ideal to strive for.

Finally, here's our hero, Joachim Marseille.

He was a student here as you all know.

I do not remember ... Were you a good student?

So, so.

Remember your teacher?

Yes, indeed, Joachim was always ...

Very ... temperamental.

Dear Joachim Marseille, can describe your adventures?

That matters more to anyone that my speech.

I ... I do not have the gift of gab. You mean ...

He prefers to face Spitfires.

Yes, I actually do.

Since I have to say something ...

It is best to talk about Africa.

I think I'll talk about the Third Squadron.

It's my squadron.

In the squadron there ...

I'll first mention my companions.

There's Lieutenant Franke.

Already gotten 40 planes and is my best friend.

The kind of guy we can trust.

We've known each other since school.

He was shot down over the Channel in 1940.

Swam all night ...until rescued.

But he did not falter. Quite the contrary.

Never stopped flying. He is a fantastic person.

He is more concerned with me than himself.

Then there is also the Lieutenant Sommer who seems indestructible.

I mean ... now he's dead.

Well, then there are others.

For example, Lt. Droste. Sometimes he's a little strange, but ...

Sorry, I just wanted to see my old classroom.

Is this it? Now it's mine.

Yours? How so?

I'm the teacher.

The war continues so there are many men out.

- Mostly women now.
- Really?

My teachers were all older and ...

- Do you know algebra?
- Yup.

- Like math?
- No.

I never liked it. I never understood what 'x' was about.

Seems so. I heard your speech.

Not very good, was it?

Speaking is almost as difficult as algebra.

Do you give a lot of speeches?

- Yes.
- I heard something else.

- What?
- That you've never given a speech before.

I bet you are a good teacher. Students should be afraid of you.

- Are you?
- Yes. I mean ...

It's a little hard to explain. I would ...

- Will you go out with me?
- Yes.

I thought you would say no.

I do not know why I accepted. Or perhaps you know.

So why then?

As I listened to your speech just now,

I thought to myself that I would like to speak with you.

I think after all he knows a lot about 'x'.

There as an uproar when they gave me that gold medal.

I received loads of presents - champagne, cigarettes, food ...

Even a gazelle, offered by the captain of a Stuka squadron.

After all, the Stukas only got through thanks to me.

- How's the coffee?
- It is terrible.

I received more than 300 telegrams.

May I smoke?

I have to give autographs,

and get letters from all sorts of people ...

Even marriage proposals ...

- I can not drink this coffee.
- Me neither.

I must go.

- You have to go now?
- Yes.

So early? Am I boring you?

- Yes...I really have to go.
- Please don't.

- Why not?
- I don't know.

It's so nice sitting here.

I think you're very pretty. Do not mind if I talk?

No, I don't mind.

Sitting here with you is wonderful, but ...

I don't know what I should be saying to you.

I've not spent much time with a girl.

- I understand.
- Really?

I feel I can talk to you about everything.

Know what I mean?

Why you have to go?

That's a whole other story.

It's not good if I ... I mean ...

I'm glad that's not just me that is stuttering. You know what?

Let's take a ride?

I'm so famous that even gave me a car.

- Want to come along?
- Sure.

Lieutenant, give us your autograph?

Beautiful.

After a year looking at the desert this is wonderful.

- Not just the scenery.
- What else?

You too.

War is a messy thing.

Here, you seem to me ...

Don't laugh at me.

It's like clear water.

You have no idea of the meaning that water has in the desert.

I can imagine.

Yes, I believe you do.

We just met and already you believe everything I say.

That's never happened to me before.

- Joachim, it's you!
- Excuse me, Marianne.

May I present Miss Brigitte Jensen.

- Nice to meet you.
- Hello.

- Please.
- She is a student.

But, for now, is teaching at my old school.

Today we went to the lake and I remembered going here.

I'm very glad, Joachim. I did not know you were ...

- We only met today.
- Yes.

But it seems much longer.

I have some wine. Would you like some?

Thank you. Can I call home?

- To tell them where I am.
- It is in the hallway. I'll show you.

I've been out since morning because ...

...because of him.

I like him, and time is so scarce.

After he is gone, the time will be so long.

Are you afraid?

If we avoid everything that hurts, we might as well give up living.

What do you think?

I think ...

I'm not sure you can understand. It sounds crazy ...

But I'm so happy. Can you understand?

Now I have to go to the headquarters of the Führer and all that crap ...

Should I tell my parents that I will visit them later?

I'm going out with Brigitte.

Can she stay here and talk with you?

Of course I will. Sit. I'll get the glasses.

Lieutenant Marseille is still with the Führer?

Yes, it is taking longer than anticipated.

Hello, Marseille. Thankfully we not missed each other.

Firstly, I congratulate you.

- Thank you, Colonel.
- You have orders to go to Rome.

Mussolini wants to present you the Gold Medal.

- I'm going now?
- Tomorrow morning. It's all arranged.

It's the Gold Medal, Marseille. The highest award in Italy.

It is usually given posthumously.

Can this award be postponed?

Marseille, do you think it is by chance that ...

- No, on the contrary.
- In that case ...

Excuse me, can I make a call to Berlin?

Of course. Open a line to Berlin.

Have some girl waiting, do you?

The man with the camera, come here.

Come here. Take a souvenir photograph.

Have some, Lieutenant. Please ...

Some ham never hurt anyone.

Came from the Ukraine. From a friend of mine.

One thing is certain: we have to live and to eat.

It is said that pork ribs leaves the soul sated.

That is all I need.

Are we late? The train is so slow.

Is it possible. There's someone waiting in Berlin?

That's good. You should enjoy your youth.

Here, drink something.

Joachim.

It's wonderful to be back here. I was anxious to see you.

- The train was so slow.
- Come.

- These are the medals? - Yes.

But Brigitte, I have to say something now, before it drives me crazy.

You know what? Tomorrow, I leave for Rome.

What?

I can't do anything about it. It is the nation that sends me.

I can not tell them that I met a girl and don't want to go.

Tomorrow? Joachim, so soon? It is impossible.

We still had so little time and you go away already.

Not because I want to. Never had this much reason to stay.

Patience.

The Gold Medal you will receive in Rome is worth something.

I do not need medals. Sorry Brigitte.

- I understand.
- You will always be welcome at our house.

That does not console me. I wish I could take her with me.

- Take her to Africa?
- No, to Rome.

- That's a great idea!
- All aboard!

Come quickly! Come!

This was true inspiration. See you later.

- The train will depart!
- Say goodbye to the father.

And call the school to say she will not return.

This is insane. What will they think of me at the school?

They can get by without you.

I do not have a passport.

So what? Now we will find out what those medals can do.

I would not have minded if we had parted at the station.

Now it has started getting dangerous.

The danger for me is a pleasure. Now we can go to Rome.

You are military liason?

Yes, I am Captain Ottoman of the Third SS Battalion.

- I have a request.
- You are Lieutenant Marseille!

I am, yes sir.

It's an honor to meet you.

This lady will travel with me to Rome, but she has no passport.

- Not even a toothbrush.
- No passport? Not a chance.

It has to be.

In Africa, when there are problems, we find a way.

Nothing is impossible.

Hide her at the border, call headquarters, do whatever it takes.

But do not say you can not do anything. I thank you already.

They gave me a car and driver.

It seems like it's Christmas.

The great German pilot.

We have everything you need?

Put on your new shoes.

I knew it would be perfect. Don't you think so?

- It looks like a fairy tale.
- But it is real.

We are in Rome.

We're together in Rome. It is not a fairy tale, Brigitte.

It's like ...

I feel it all over my body.

Tell me more.

You lived in a house at the seaside?

Yes, it could be seen plainly.

It was very close and we could hear the surf.

But I stopped hearing it because I got used to it.

I can hear it.

Listening?

And then there were always children.

I could heard them walking with their sleigh in winter

and swimming in the summer.

My mother used to sit by the fireplace to tell us stories.

I learned many old stories to tell children.

- That is, if there are children.
- Do you want children?

- I'm not sure.
- Of course you do.

Wait until the war is over, our war in Africa.

Do not talk about Africa.

The gentlemen will come up.

I have talked to two government officials.

I hope you do not waste too much time with them

so as to not disturb my time in Rome with you.

- I'll get dressed.
- You don't have to go.

Come.

Good day, we apologize for bothering you.

- Il Duce sends you greetings.
- Let's talk about tomorrow morning?

There will be a ceremony and we have to make some plans.

Rome is anxious to hear all about the great German pilot.

Here is the program.

Tomorrow morning at ten o'clock, reception at Palazzo Venezia.

Il Duce will give you the Gold Medal.

Later, you will be received by the Mayor and the Municipal Council.

Tomorrow morning, ...

breakfast with the commander-in-chief of the Italian Air Force.

His Excellency, General Walleck.

Have you seen this? These Italians make me crazy.

Reception after reception. Food, champagne, speeches ...

This has gone on for days. They pass me from hand to hand like an object.

I'm full. I do not want to continue.

I do not want to waste any more of my time.

I sit at the table and try not to be angry.

I feel that they are stealing my time.

You can't do anything about it.

I can't? I can. I assure you.

Give me reception. I want the bill, please.

- What are you doing?
- It's simple. We're gone.

I'm retiring.

So I have these two days to be alone with you ...

...from morning to night. Only with you.

You all use them. I saw them in your photos.

They protect us from the sand.

- You like it? - I do.

- For luck.
- For both of us.

- Excuse me.
- Do not apologize.

I know you're thinking about my return tomorrow.

I can not do anything, Brigitte.

Of course not.

I should not have come with you.

Everything would have been easier.

But ... now, is ...

Do not think about it.

What else can I do? I'm already counting the hours.

What?

What's up?

Robert!

- What?
- You were dreaming.

I dreamed that they had killed me. It was the decision of the pilots.

No one looked for me.

In my dreams, I can never shoot down as many planes as they want.

I need a drink.

It was the dream that made me thirsty.

I wanted to tell you something.

Hug me.

I've been thinking about all this.

And what was the conclusion ...

Tell me, should you really go?

What are you saying? What are you thinking?

You've shot down over 100 British planes. Isn't that enough?

What more do they want from you?

There must be something we can do ...

What are you thinking?

You know well what it is.

I want to hear you say it.

Joachim, you love me?

Do not change the subject.

But I want to hear you say it.

I'm not sure what you mean,

but do you think I would be able to get away with it?

- I would be a deserter.
- That's just a word.

Yes, a word and true.

This conversation makes no sense. It is out of the question.

You never think about death?

I have an idea of how it is.

It's the end of everything. Music and song, you and I ...

Yes, I know.

And love too.

It is likely. You are beautiful.

Joachim, please. You could do anything.

I do not know what, but you can always do something.

If I wanted, I could do many things.

I could make a forced landing on the English side.

That, Joachim.

Listen, Brigitte. It is impossible.

You know what? I will request three more days leave.

They should give it to us.

If they give me an Iron Cross and a Gold Medal...

... then they can give me three more days.

It coulde be 10 to 20 days. It changes nothing.

We need more. We need a lifetime.

- No need to be demanding.
- I'm not being picky.

I will not beg for three days.

What we want is a lifetime. A life together with children and ...

The sound of the surf ... and the children playing.

We chose our world, and someone telling old stories.

It's crazy. Excuse me.

Lieutenant, you have a visitor.

Robert! Where did you come from? Come up!

I can not believe my eyes! What brought you here?

I came to Rome on leave. I saw in the newspapers you were here.

But nobody could find you. I had to play detective.

I'm here. It's a wonderful place.

I live a clandestine life as a civilian.

I got dressed because we're going to Rome.

- We're? You're not alone?
- No.

Brigitte, come here.

This is Robert. This is Brigitte.

- Good afternoon.
- Good afternoon.

- Apologies for the clothing ...
- a friend of the husband of Marianne.

- They know.
- You know?

Yes, I get dressed and I'll be back.

Excuse me, did not know anything. If I knew I would not have come.

- Do not be silly.
- Serious?

It couldn't be more so.

- Congratulations.
- Thank you.

I must say that you seem very happy.

You are right. You read my thoughts.

Good to see you. Sit.

You know, Robert ...

These last few days were the happiest of my life.

Suddenly, the war seems to me crazy.

- It was she that did this?
- Of course.

She has a terribly logical mind. She is a teacher of Mathematics.

She says that a dead man is worth nothing, is nothing.

I shouldn't start.

Listen, I have also had these thoughts.

For a long time.

I spent all morning here, looking out the window.

I was hoping to discover a different world.

I want to hold on to it forever.

- Silly?
- Not at all.

I do not know what came over me. It's crazy, but it's beautiful.

Pilots in Africa have three months of life.

Those are the statistics as you know.

Droste knew it was true.

It's a miracle you and I are both still be alive.

You said yourself that he was afraid, but he continued to fly.

Why?

Because there is no escape.

It is a fate ... from which we can not escape.

It just continues on? Nothing else?

There are things beyond our reach.

It is not for me to answer. Not you.

What do you mean?

That it is important that each of us find a way out for himself,

that matches your character and ...

is not cowardice ... or unworthiness.

- Understand?
- Kind of.

A man can not be responsible for everything in his life.

However, we have to find a way to handle things.

And each one has their own personal style. Or maybe not ...

Ready?

Spitfires ahead.

Elbe 14, 5 Spitfires ahead.

- Attention, Joachim! Behind you.
- Thanks, I've seen.

Marseille should be careful.

Another for Elbe 14, the sixth so far.

Six, with four this morning.

Great. Here they come.

- What is eveyone looking at?
- 12 aircraft in one day is a record.

I missed out getting any because
I got distracted watching you.

This guy knows even fly like a bird.

Haven't you started growing wings?

Please Joachim, don't be so careless.

Need a light?

I am not careless now ... you know why.

- Another for Elbe 14 - for 17.

All on the same day.

Elbe 4! What's happened to the Elba 4?

Elbe 4 here, they got my wings and controls.

- I am going down.
- Bailing out?

I will not try to land.

Elbe 4! Elba 4!

Is that you, Joachim? How nice of you coming to see me one last time.

What are you talking about? You will get better.

I always knew that sooner or later this would come to an end.

But in my case it had to be a bizarre end.

I ... I'm glad you weren't killed.

I do believe.

I'm glad to see you one last time.

I always envied you.

- Stop that.
- Let me talk.

- I've always been odd.
- No more than anyone else.

Even it may have not seemd so, Joachim.
I always liked you.

I wanted to say some things to you,
before going on to something better than this.

You'll be fine.

- The doctor says ...
- Please.

Sommer ...

If Sommer were here, he would say: 'What does the doctor know?'

No, the end does not scare me. On the contrary...

Once I stopped in the desert...watching the sand being blown...

... covering everything.

The sand can come and cover everything.

Even me

That made me feel at peace ... The idea that nothing is forever.

- So, Joachim?
- I still managed to talk to him.

He sent greetings to everyone and said to not worry about him.

Those were his words.

Do not these guys. He would not.

Who is this?

- Captain Brown.
- He was the one who shot Droste down.

Let's listen to some music.

I'll put on a rumba.

A rhumba that he will not be forced to listen to ever again.

Coming with us, Joachim? Let's go to Derna.

I'm going. Wait here, I'll be right back.

Lieutenant! ... Lieutenant!

You almost forgot it!

Start it up.

- Hello, Matthias.
- Captain.

Attention. At ease.

- Anything happening?
- They're over Egypt.

Elbe 14 is in trouble.

What happened, Elbe 14? Elba 14?

I do not know. Engine problems. It's smoking.

- Will you have to crash-land?
- Don't know yet.

Go inform the major.

If he crashes now, the English will capture him.

- Why do you say that?
- He's beyond El Alamein.

Damn this. How long until El Alamein?

A good 40km, Joachim. Can you make it?

The windshield is covered in oil. I can not see.

We will guide you. Turn left.

Want to jump?

I do not know if I can reach El Alamein, but I'll try.

How am I doing?

Has damage left wing. Are you sure you can jump?

Attention! At ease.

Elbe 14 engine smoking. Being guided by others.

- Bailing out?
- Still beyond El Alamein, major.

Only three more minutes. Keep it up.

Okay, Joachim?

I guess I should jump.

Elbe 14! Marseille answer.

Elbe 14! Elba Anton here. Can you hear me?

Go ahead and jump. Bail out wherever you are.

El Alamein, we've passed our lines.

You can jump, Joachim. Jump!

Joachim jumped.

Elbe Anton here. Did he get out?

The parachute did not open!

What? What happened?

The parachute got caught on the wing. He slammed into the wing.

Hans-Joachim Marseille died at age 23.

One among millions of young men who could still be alive.