Original subtitles

The Death of the Beautiful Roebucks

Based on the book by Ota Pavel Screenplay by artist of merit

Dramaturge

Aren't they beautiful?

Look how graceful!

More than a match for Josephine Baker!

See those eyes?

As if they were human.

More beautiful than human eyes.

Look at that!

Surely that's Holan.

Holan! Leave off!

Let's go!

Where's Holan?

- Here somewhere. - I saw him attack a deer!

- He's a murderer! - You're nuts.

You saw no dead deer, I bet.

Holman's not the only wolf-hound around.

What did you see? Speak up!

The deer were grazing then Dad started shouting.

- Who knows what you saw. - What did you catch?

We saw some lovely pike but there's no catching them.

What a lovely day.

Let's go get them, Uncle!

- They're gorged. - Tomorrow they'll be hungry.

But you're starting your job in Prague!

- There's nothing to eat. - Exactly, there'll be the pike!

Uncle says when the pike are overstuffed they'll only go for small perch.

- I caught some! - So did I!

Destroying competition while it's small.

Why did you never tell me, Karel?

It works!

Two vagabonds looked at the stars out of work, played their guitars...

- None there today. - Who?

The grebes!

The most wonderful river in the world.

A paradise!

If there is a heaven, it must hold this river.

This fishing champion included.

- The Forestry Authorities hereby announce During deer-mating time...

We hear this every year.

Well, Karel?

...the fine for poaching is 200,-

or imprisonment for up to 5 weeks.

Gimme a crown!

- Lend me a crown! - I'm broke!

- I gave you one for a wafer. - That was last week!

- Here. - Here.

Get up, you've got to start work.

Tomorrow, no the day after.

Director Koralek said end of the week.

Do we go out grazing? There's no money.

I'll catch some parmas.

And if you don't?

- I will. - And if you don't?

So we'll eat brad with onions.

Eat up, it's tasty and healthy.

Enough, how about some pot-roast?

I should say!

Where did that come from?

The butcher, on credit.

Now I owe them all.

The grocer, at the inn, Karel here - everyone.

- Enjoy. - Enjoy.

I'm not eating this, it's venison.

Venison's the best meat, gives strength to last you till spring.

Kill it - for the meat?!

The animal's health is in it.

Lives in the fresh air, on fragrant herbs.

Killing a dear with eyes sadder than a human's,

that' what I call murder!

You kill fish too.

Fish and deer are different!

That's it. We're leaving for Prague!

Good morning, Madam, pray let me present

an Electrolux vacuum cleaner of refrigerator -

Made in Sweden!

Very good.

Where's the jazz band, dammit?

I'll see to it right now.

- Even right now's too late! - Hello.

- The new man? - Yes, sir.

Where were you before?

Tutenkhamon and Co.

The fire extinguishers that caused the whole Ejpovice works to burn down.

Exactly, I still have a bonus coming to me,

for selling the largest number.

- We'll take you for a month on trial. - Yes, sir.

- Madame is waiting in the drawing-room, she'd like to have it over with,

she has an appointment with Rehacek the jockey.

Let's get going, gentlemen!

Come along!

No, the boss doesn't like me, is prejudiced against me.

He's prejudiced against everyone.

Come and get a free meal!

Our best salesman of the year - Mr. Joseph Vejvoda!

He sold 212 vacuum cleaners,

In addition to the bonus he will receive s Swiss watch,

handed over by Mr. Johansson from Stockholm!

Thank you.

Yours is the laurel wreath!

- Thank you, you were magnificent. - Thank you.

Give her a kiss!

- Does this happen every year? - Yeah.

My turn next year.

This, the French stuff!

You have some!

They took you on and even paid you?!

It's an advance. I work on the commission system.

Don't spend so much, then.

Think of a rainy day - I need flour, rice, sugar.

Don't you worry!

I'm wild to start!

A decent product at last, it'll do its won selling.

Permit me to introduce myself.

I represent Electrolux vaccum cleaners Made in Sweden.

One of the best world products -

research has placed it at the very top.

An appliance of genius.

Permit me to show you what it can do.

It removes dust and dirt impeccably.

No more drudgery, with this plug in a socket.

- The maid does the sweeping. - Put her on another job!

- The milling, feeding... - She does that anyway.

- I'd like to show you the advantages - in the bedroom.

- No - my husband's got a terrible temper!

Another new-fangled invention?!

- A first-class appliance, a vacuum-cleaner.

- All set to trick us out of our money?! - Oh no, I want to help you!

I'd like to help you!

Give yourself a chance...

And you go and muck out some dung!

...a modest but efficient helpmate.

Try it out, see its advantages.

I'm sorry... I'm sorry, Father.

Show the gentleman out! Quickly!

Maybe I could try... Sorry.

Pray let me show you how efficient this top world product is.

A shitty life, this!

The vacuum cleaner leaves not a speck of dust,

the floor is as clean as God's word...

Get off, you!

I've shut shop, come in.

- Two rolls? Nothing else? - That's right.

D'you know what?

Come in.

I'm interested in your vacuum cleaner.

- What did you call it? - Lux. I'll show you.

No, take a seat. There, that's nice.

Let's have a drink first.

Cheers! Bottoms up!

Home-made currant wine, gets you hot!

Well, let's get going.

No. Wait!

I've got to show it to you.

There's no hurry... They play beautifully.

When you see its advantages

you'll be sure to want it!

Show me, then.

Don't slave away! You need a robot!

- A what? - A robot!

It will do your work for you!

You will feel his exceptional ability.

He finds all the hidden places,

the secret spots.

He'll become your intimate friend

with whom you'll never part.

Your coffee's in the oven.

Go out through the back.

I'd buy the cleaner, but on credit...

Drop in when you're passing!

We had lots of currants this year.

Look!

Excuse me.

We've got to buy 2 vacuum cleaners.

You're crazy, what about food?

- Or I got sack. - Where would I get the money?

How about that necklace of your Gran's?

- Over my dead body. - Only pawn it! I'll buy it back!

I need time.

I'll make a break-through.

Herma...

Is it possible? He's saved his skin.

Fancy him succeeding

where such cunning devils came a cropper.

Just villages and villages...

That was a death-spam of an effort.

He'll drown, just wait and see...

Help!

Jesus Christ - help!

Please jump in, I can't swim!

- Neither can I! - Throw something in, then!

- Pepan! Pepan! - Help!

Here!

Look a branch!

Catch hold!

Just a bit further!

Look, a cord!

Come along!

Eat it all!

D'you want a cartload of ham? A ton of sausages?

I don't eat the stuff, but it's first-class quality.

- Why won't you take the reward money? - No, not money.

- But you do want something? - Yes, I do.

- Out with it! - I need to sell

some vacuum cleaners or refrigerators.

Is that all?

This vacuum cleaner sucked me out of death's arms!

I'll keep it in a glass case!

And another to do the cleaning, and a spare refrigerator.

Annie!

And when I recommend somebody to my business partners...

...that stands for something!

- And Annie! - Yes?

- Your party's tomorrow, isn't it? - Yes.

You must be dressed to kill.

I'll see to that.

Electrolux!

The star amongst vacuum cleaners!

Just as you hoover with a Hoover, you lux with an Electrolux!

The best of the best!

Lux in Latin means light.

The light of progress, that lights the way ahead!

Progress personified -

and who doesn't use it -

ladies excuse me - is out of the ark!

Now permit me to show you how much a star amongst cleaners works!

What's this?

Mud and sand brought in from the street?!

Never mind - Electrolux isn't lax!

Gone!

And here - and gone!

Gone overboard - for you!

Thank you kindly, ladies.

Let me just say this: Who's without,

is out... dated.

The order-forms are ready, ladies.

Your name and address.

Goodbye, ladies!

'Bye!

Explain yourself, girl!

I swear I swept up, twice over,

there wasn't a speck of dust!

Excuse me, that dirt was mine.

I apologize to you both, but business is business.

Permit me to demonstrate.

Here the container, called Dirty Boy,

the pipe... and watch...

...Dirty Boy going dirty on us.

All my own product.

That's great!

Send more order-forms.

All used up.

Popper's gone nuts!

Or the Muses kissed him and he's out to get 'me!

Don't believe it!

Herma, clear the table!

Here's Grandma's necklace back.

- Leo dear! - Wait!

- Dad's robbed a bank! - Leos dear!

Wow!

Hugo, pop down to the shops...

No, don't! Open up your pantry, dear!

Leos dear!

For me affluence means

a Hungarian salami hanging up in the pantry

and everyone carving away.

How much do we owe?

Prosek, the innkeeper... and so on.

And the boys'll learn boxing

from the former champion Johnny Hejtmanek!

- Boxing is brutal! - But necessary.

So you can sock in the jaw give and insolent boaster

a good sock in the jaw.

Like I can!

You dare hit Daddy!

Hejtmanek's fee.

Wait...

Where're you gazing? I can see a pond. -

Alders, willows, calm waters.

A pond full of carp.

Our pond.

- Where is it? - Gone!

Look here, I'll have a pond

if I spend it all!

Help! No!

Scram, you!

Stop!

That chin!

D'you carry it for show?

Here, pads for you.

Box!

You need a feather-bed.

The sack.

Over there!

Left! Don't push! Right contre! A bit more!

See? Cover!

Hit with your body!

Is that a blow?

Blows are short and dry like a rubber stamp.

Toddle off!

Get lost!

Enough of that!

Fight by fair means.

As I always do.

Whenever I can. Let's see that!

My favourite, world champion Max Rosenkranz!

Another has-been.

Pity he couldn't fight Max Schmelling,

he'd have battered up Hitler's darling.

But he's black and a Jew.

- But Max was middle and Schmelling heavy-weight.

Meaning he couldn't have got him down?

A good middle shoots down any heavy.

That's what we'll do to the gent with the whiskers.

But he wouldn't dare take us on 'cause he'd be the heavy

shot down by a good middle.

What do you think of it?

I know your boss, Director Koralek.

He said I've got an angler wants to buy a pond.

I have to sell as I'm going abroad.

Now for the carp.

Heavens - he must have 5 kilos!

Six.

For you - ten thousand.

I'll show you how much I paid for the young carp.

Don't bother, I believe you.

...five, six, seven, eight, nine...

Is that all?

The change I'll put on your account.

How about an advance?

- A little one could... - Two thousand.

For draft from the brewery - that's what carp like best.

You're getting lax, Mr. Popper.

But I'm still in the load!

I'm financing an operation to bring in honour, glory and thousands!

I'll have cards printed -

Electrolux representative, and fish delivered on request!

Come to my pond party, friends!

Ever the wheel

our aim lies far ahead

strong nerves, cool smiles

to overcome the miles...

Good day. Madame...

This way.

Mr. Stehlik!

- Can you see a fish? - I can't see a single fish.

I don't think there are any.

Are there no more?

The only one, Mr. Popper.

- Out of the way! - Was there really only one?

- All this fuss for one carp! A single-carp pond!

Let's go!

- At least let's have a sausage. - No sausages!

I'm sorry, sir.

These fish'll be the death of you!

The most expensive carp in Europe.

I'll get some fry and fatten 'em up!

I'll make a packet!

- "Where's your lawyer"?" - He and madam went to Italy.

On my money!

Is the boss really selling his big car?

Yes, he's buying a new one.

You can't go in, he's expecting a buyer!

That's why I must go in.

- Hello! Elektrolux. - But you're broke!

How'll you pay for it?

- With the advance you'll give me. - Could I have heard right?

You'll get more than from other buyers.

- I'd have to take leave of my senses! - Oh no!

Ever at the wheel

our aim lies far ahead

strong nerves, cool smiles

to overcome the miles.

Step on the gas

break records fast

a common goal have you and I

faster will the miles roll by.

The richest is Mr. Abraham - brickworks.

He has no refrigerator, a broken-down vacuum cleaner.

Next comes Zemek, the lawyer.

- So you've made the list? - Yes.

How about our ladies?

Major Fiala's wife and her friend, Captain Holecek's wife,

both about 35 years old...

We'll keep them last.

This machine of genius in addition

to keeping modern household clean

also cares for what is most important -

the blessed state of happy marriage!

The air currents

make the innermost folds of body and soul vibrate!

Me too!

I need help!

They rouse new, magic feelings

the subconscious opens gateways to gardens

where all fruits may be picked!

Let's start on some spring cleaning!

What hills and vales!

I give in!

Over - to my assistant.

Madame, your signature.

Here.

The money these officers spend when on maneuvres...!

The Captain just bought a star amongst vacuum cleaners!

What do we drink to?

Those air currents, of course!

- My husband! - What?

- Quickly, please! - You only had a hen-party, so what.

Keep going!

I'm coming, darling!

- Damn! - Come on!

I'll show you...!

- God, it's ice-cold! Dammit! - Come on!

It's terrible!

God in heaven!

Eels need patience.

The art lies in guessing its mood, in giving it just the bait

it can't resist. Come on!

- Nothing? - Nothing.

So we wait.

I'll wait till kingdom come.

In that case kingdom has come, you've caught something.

An eel!

Whilst we were serving our country he invaded our private lives

and misused the trusting nature of my defenceless wife.

That was more like the other way round.

- I'm too embarrassed to read on. - What a funereal atmosphere!

- Such a successful salesman - and now this?!

I'll cross my fingers, you must win our competition.

- I'll shut my eyes to this - but the last time!

Leave the army alone - and the fish.

- I haven't been fishing for ages. - You'd better go.

My respects. Sir... Excuse me.

Christ, a snake! Enormous!

Excuse me.

- The royal python. - It's an eel!

You're the python!

- Hocus pocus! - A beauty!

- So long and slim! - Like a sea serpent!

Prepare it with Hollandaise sauce!

Pity it's dead.

- So Herma dear... - Where's it from?

A gift from my business associate.

Since when is Karel that?

- Did Uncle catch it? - Were you at his place?

- How's Holan? - I caught that eel.

Wasn't the pond fiasco enough?

Your boss said fish would be your end! He was right.

How can you think of saying that?!

I'm no machine for selling vacuum cleaners and making money!

I need an elixir to life - for me that's fish!

- Elixir... - Did he also happen to tell you

that I'll win this year's best salesman prize?

Yes, but why?

Why what?

- Because of the dolled-up madam who doles out kisses as a reward!

Remember you've got three boys.

Never mind me.

And aiming high makes for a big fall.

You are a first-class spa - but we'll make you into a world spa!

We must brain-wash them to believe that.

Come and eat, boys!

Some tasty nosh for you!

- Hear 'em smack their lips? - But that's you.

They'll soon whisk the water so clean the pond'll shine like a tarn lake.

They'll gobble up the last crumb.

I can see them, my beauties -

eating their heads off -

growing nice and chubby!

Did you see that one?!

Come on, Karlovy Vary can't wait!

And there!

Go and join him, then!

Don't be stupid!

You ass!

Come here, you jackass!

- Refrigerators in the rooms?! - Not in all the rooms.

In your VIP suites - and you have 15.

Not to mention the royal, imperial and presidents' suite.

The top world hotels have made it their novelty.

The Crystal Palace in Cortina d'Ampezzo, the Esplanade in Davos, the Riviera...

I would cost a lot.

- It would, but your hotel would enter the Extra-Luxury Class.

You can raise the prices.

But such an investment

would need to be put before the board.

When does the board meet?

At the end of June.

I'll be in touch...

Johnny, at which hotel were you

when you gave the K.O. To the Black Pearl of Mozambique?

- At the Imperial. - I'll send my regards.

Wait - are you that Mr. Hejtmanek?!

What a pleasure... let us talk.

Cinzano, Dubbonet, Campari?

Pardon! Pretty doggie!

- Come off that pear-tree! We haven't finished.

- I think we've done more than enough! - The others want to be world tops too!

And the other spas... All those women...

Regiments of 'em!

Yours is the laurel wreath!

Congratulations!

A kiss!

A shark, out to get all the business!

He must be good - and his ideas!

- Nevada's envious! - Sheer impertinence.

Kicked out through the door, he climbs in through the window.

Mr. Popper! How do you do it?

You sold refrigerators to so many ministers,

to the premier, that renown miser and two to the President!

It just comes to me naturally.

But my biggest feat was selling a vacuum cleaner to my former headmaster

at whom I threw an inkpot at school.

I've decided to put you in charge of our stand at the Trade Fair.

- I hope that's before June 16th?! - Yes, but why...

I bet the fishing season begins then!

- With your permission, sir... - Yes.

- May I have the pleasure? - Yes.

It was all for you - for the prize from you.

What does your wife say to that?

A kiss from the Director's wife means distinction for the whole family.

Kindly note there is more to come.

You don't say.

I have decided to conquer your fort.

No way!

- May I? - Yes.

Now permit me to demonstrate

how we eat chicken back home.

Popper really is quite a guy.

Excuse me, madam! Are you alright?

- Do forgive me! - Go away!

A capable man, but such a country bumpkin.

Ladies, you have a go!

Clean, cleaner, cleanest!

And it's fun all the way!

And now the Maxime Model - number one...

...number two...

...number three!

Excuse me!

Yes, sir?

Come here!

Let's see your head in profile!

- And you'll bash me - I know that one.

I'm interested in a couple of those whosies.

- But the ladies aren't... - The refrigerators!

That's different, you have taste. Allow me to...

No gabbing!

Come and see me at the Academy. My name is Nejezchleb.

Is there someone called Nejezchleb?

- That's the Professor! The first-floor studio.

You can't just go in! The Professor's excitable.

He kicks out bankers and senators!

Their drivers catch them as they crash down!

Up yours, you ass!

Ah, it's you?

Elsa, Sam - quiet! It's a friend!

Come right in!

I'll just finish this.

- Up yours, you ass! - Silence, Odysseus!

You ass!

- Do you like it? - I like it a lot.

"- Everyone say that; but why?"

I bet you don't know why you like it.

- Especially the eyes, professor. - Eyes, eyes...

Eyes show people's nature best.

I didn't know one could paint human nature.

So - what is their nature?

I'd never manage to sell him a refrigerator.

He's a real meanie, this guy.

This gentleman'd buy what I have to sell.

He has a big heart and a generous palm.

This men I'd have to convince he's doing it for his country.

You're a dab-hand at it!

The banker, Mr. Preiss.

Kvasnicka the editor, a lovely man.

But ever broke.

This gentleman has emigrated.

He is afraid of Hitler.

I'd give Mr. Hitler what for!

A good middle-weight can knock down any heavy-weight.

I'll buy two refrigerators.

One here and one for the flat.

Come and see me again!

I hear Nejezchleb the painter was here.

I sold him two refrigerators, he's my friend.

- Are you serious - the great portrait-painter is your friend?

Sure, just the other day at his studio

we talked about what human eyes give away.

What can they give away?

- That only artists understand. - Come with me!

I'd like the maestro to paint my wife.

Did you hear me?

Yes, but...

...that won't be simple.

I know, he told Bata he didn't paint cobblers,

he got 300,000 from the President.

I wouldn't care if I paid half a million.

Girls!

Half a million?

Isn't that enough, either?

- It isn't money he's after, it's - beauty and character.

Everyone's after money.

- I'll have to ask the Professor. - Fine.

Excuse me, but don't you paint women?

I don't like the hussies.

They get on my nerves.

When I paint they keep talking.

The silent ones are no good either.

The only woman I love is Lucretia.

Lucretia?

D'you want to see her?

D'you know why I love her?

'Cause she's been dead for centuries, doesn't gab,

and she had a heart.

She killed herself.

She's beautiful because she's so unusual.

That's exactly it.

- I'll give you one. - I couldn't accept it!

- You must - for understanding what I meant.

You are a connoisseur! I give you orders to want her!

I'll tell you what I'd like.

I know of the loveliest woman, worthy of you brush.

I'm not in the mood.

Maybe later.

When I've finished Lucretia.

Take this before I change my mind!

A very important lawyer is here

who refuses to wait for the boss.

- Asked who's in charge. - What's his name?

- Jakubicek. - That old fraud!

Ask him in, I'll see to it.

Back to your places!

I am your boss's personal friend.

- Hello. - Hello.

How nice to see you! So you're back from Italy?

I hope you had a good time - you certainly look great!

- Please take a seat. - Ah, Mr. Popper.

- And how are you? - Great, thanks!

- And your family? - Even better!

But I hear you have a problem.

Let's hope I can help you.

My better half wants a refrigerator.

- My friend promised... - I know what the boss promised.

The newest model, the G V Platter Munters - a miracle!

Marble top - the price is 10,350.

Isn't that a bit dear?

The model for our highly discerning customers.

Real marble?

Real Swedish marble.

Have some Sliwovitz?

- Also Swedish? - No, the real Moravian stuff.

Our company carries the best of everything.

Just one detail, sir, the special VIP marble tops

must be paid for in advance.

I'll pop into the bank next door.

Fine - here's one for the other foot!

Within 3 days we'll deliver it, at our own costs.

Your wife will praise you.

Please hand the money to our secretary.

This is the big moment for me.

The storehouse? I need an old refrigerator, a reject.

- Have it repainted, marble-topped - and this is important -

take out the cooling system - yes, gut it!

Don't ask me why, just do it!

I'd love to be at their horse when it arrives!

Only the President's wife has one, and you.

Now connect it for us!

That won't take a jiffy!

What do I connect?

- What? - That's for you to know!

I want nothing to do with this!

Mr. Popper, the refrigerator has no insides!

You sent me an empty cupboard!

What is that supposed to mean?!

That's what happens when you sell a man a fish pond with a single fish.

It looked great - but had no insides either!

My salutations to your dear wife.

Mr Popper, you won't make a fool of me!

- What if he sues us? - I don't think he will.

I bought the most expensive pond in Europe,

and he the most expensive rabbit-hutch.

So we're quits.

Ah, the pond with one carp.

Rabbit-hutch! You sure are something.

Tricking the most cunning lawyer in Bohemia!

- Is that Nejezchleb? - Yes.

You said he doesn't paint women.

That's only a sketch.

And Lucretia is the only woman he tried it on with.

- Will he do it, do you think? - I think so, but it'll take time.

You have all the time you want, and should you need money...

Oh no, I'd be happy to please your wife,

though she doesn't think much of me.

You don't understand women at all.

Do come and see us some time!

Yes, of course.

Come in. Aha, well met, Sir!...

When? Tomorrow, the day after?

- When I'm alone at home. - Irma!

It depends on the Professor...

I'll do everything in my power!

Bye. Bye.

Now tell me again, Lee!

- He finished Lucretia and said! - What did he say?

I'll look at that loveliest woman, then!

- Did he say loveliest woman? - That's what he said.

Without even seeing you.

When he does, he'll be lost for words -

as I am now.

Dear Leo. When will he see me?

When he's in the right mood, he said.

- That can take ages! - No it won't, I'll see to it!

- How long, then? - About... a week!

Leo dear!

No. Afterwards!

No, Leo. Afterwards!

Come here!

Look - the golden beetle.

- Godhead. - The Prince?

- Yes. - Beautiful - sheer enchantment.

Look!

Parisian blue, a touch of white...

Blue-eyes!

This is a miracle.

Nature is... all chocolate-box art.

But beautiful.

Another corny scene for you, Professor!

Tripe soup -

how long have I not had that!

Roast veal kidney!

How did you know it's my favourite?

I saw it in your eyes.

Buns with wine custard!

You'll be the death of me!

But what a sweet death.

What d'you think?

Will we catch any?

I think you'll be lucky.

Somebody's ringing!

- I can't hear a thing. - I've got hearing like an owl!

You're right. Come on, quick!

Run, Professor!

Pull, sir!

Here he comes.

An eel!

A big one. Magnificent!

But you got the better of him, Professor.

You're right, I won.

So this is the mysterious fish.

Bells like on Corpus Christi day!

I've got him!

The bells!

Your bell's ringing!

Another, look at it!

An eel. A bream!

D'you know what?

I'll see what woman.

No why of improving it!

It's perfect.

It's you, is it?

I keep hearing bells since your fish!

So that's the lady.

- Up yours, you ass. - Quiet!

Turn round! I'll look from the other side.

Me and paint such a madam?

Half a million...

- Not for any money. No! - Professor...

Enough!

Stop crying!

Is it the end of the world?

Yes. I am so unhappy!

- What shall I do? - Don't despair there's hope yet!

- That was the first round. - Really?

Definitely!

- Where are we going? - You can't go home in this state.

We've got to think things over.

What is this?

It's the boxers' training ring.

- Are we going to box? - I hope not!

- That painter really offended me. - I know.

Am I stupid or ugly or what?

You're the most beautiful girl in Prague!

In Central Europe!

Forget it!

He was so mean!

I'll make it work.

Will you? Wait!

What is it?

You're my treasure, Lee!

- Next time I'll wear another dress. - For what?

- And let my hair down. - Stop thinking about it!

Concentrate on me now, of what we are doing!

I'm concentrating.

What do we tell hubby?

God - tell him?

About Nejezchleb.

That he's sick. Forget it!

What are you looking at?

Look at this hot-shot, to get in the mood!

But he's so black!

No!

...that this country

is now the Protectorate Bohemia and Moravia.

Shut up!

Here's a crown, you can move on.

What'll happen to you now?

- And your family? - What should happen?

Hitler's at the throats of people like you.

- Jews, I mean. - You always were stupid.

Thanks for telling us, chum.

But next to beware are butchers, like you!

I'm so scared for the boys.

Don't be silly!

I've always looked after the family, and I'll go on looking after you.

D'you know what I feel like for supper?

A couple of pike-perch with bacon stuffing.

It's closed season.

- When thousand-year empires are being founded,

that's the time for poachers.

Guardians of the law have their hands full.

The boss says he'll get you a job with our Rio de Janeiro branch.

No way, only wild piranhas there.

No pike, no eel.

And I can't speak the language!

Where would the boys go to school?

Here I was born, here I'm at home.

So the boss wants to get rid of me.

He hates to do it, but having a Jew here could be used against our company.

So - it's the sack.

Your salary for the rest of the year, and the boss thanks you.

He can stick it up his ass, I'll make my way.

Don't be stupid, you've got a family!

He didn't over the generous act.

Never mind, I'll move to the country.

Make a living by my pond.

And I'll make a packet!

Gentlemen - see you after the war!

- Be seeing you, Mr. Popper! - Goodbye.

Boys!

Come here!

Here.

And what has the Mayer brought me?

Nothing good, Mr. Popper.

The pond is no longer yours.

Some mistake, I didn't sell it.

They've confiscated it. Aryanization, they call it.

D'you know what I call it?

Dirty thievery!

The army commandeered it.

Will they look after them, feed them?

It's themselves they'll be feeding.

Let them choke on my carp-bones!

So you're not mine any more, boys.

Who bought you this small?

Brought you brewery draft sweet as mother's milk?

But the war will be short.

And you'll live to see the end.

What do you want, Jew?

D'you want a carp?

Come and get it.

Get gone!

- What is it? - Be careful!

- He's quite frozen. - He's fine.

Come here, Herma!

Shut your eyes!

Can you see them?

Yellow beaks, white feathers, fat little dumplings!

They took my pond, but I'll show them.

A goose-farm in all its glory.

I'll make a packet.

As if you lived on the moon...

- Don't you read the papers? - No.

Lee dear, put that hammer down.

- There'll be no goose. - Why not?

A notification came...

About what?

The same as with the carp.

Put your gloves on!

- Dad - you're smoking?! - Jo.

Isn't he beautiful!

Like it?

Grown to a lovely size.

But what'll be under it and for supper?

We're having potato salad!

As delicious as Lappet's in Prague!

Why didn't we wake the boys?

We'd have woken Mummy, too.

We'll manage on our own.

The carp are suffocating.

They didn't cut holes in the ice.

We'll do it here.

Mum! Mum!

We must wait for them to come.

My lovely carp!

Come along!

You lovely boy!

You're the handsome one.

You're all my golden boys!

I have no choice, let's get going.

Come along.

Put it down!

Lower!

Come away, Daddy, I'm scared.

- If they catch us they'll kill us. - Hold it properly and be quiet!

Put it down!

And stop crying!

Are you mad?!

You've gone crazy!

Me? They, surely.

Stop that and go away!

- The carp are ours! - Want them to hang us all?!

Get out of here! Scram!

You're scared shitless like all the others!

- Mummy! Mum! - Lee dear, please come home!

Come here!

Don't push your head into the noose!

Daddy!

Don't cry, it'll be all right!

Run and fetch the sledge!

Take this load home.

Wait, you'll take the other sledge.

Sorry boys, what has to be has to be.

Look, we're in carp paradise!

Where did they spring from?

I caught them, with Daddy!

- We've stolen our own carp! - What the...?

Why didn't you wake us?

You're on the morning shift.

By the time you leave for the factory I want them all gone to the last fin.

You go to the Burgers, and the mill, you to the baker's and the Blahas.

- And me? - You?

You are going straight to bed!

- Have you taken them all? - There are three left in the tub.

Open up, we know you're home!

Take the carp away, quick!

Yes, I'm coming!

They'll be the Jewish Community people I owe them some money.

Yes?

- What's that shovel for? - Look at the miracle - a Jew working!

To make up for your lounging around.

Who do you think we are?

You look like the Jewish Community personified!

Secret Police.

The old Kaiser help me now.

- You don't seem to be a shit-eater so show us where you've hidden

the machine-guns.

Do you know this?

No. I don't.

Interesting, none of them do.

Look, you look sensible.

How about coming out with it?

I'll make it a point in your favour.

Anything you want to say?

Have you got a search warrant?

Remember: We are the warrant, court and penalty!

You swine!

What's this?

The President, huh?

Catch! And out!

D'you want a push? This way!

Into dust!

And stamp on it!

So now you know!

When you find a leaflet, report it!

Or...

What's this supposed to be?

Committing suicide, is she?

Let's give her a hand.

You have to sign for it.

That's not the right envelope.

What is it?

George sad Hugo to be transported.

You were to have gone together.

I heard it would be this way. It's because of school, you see?

They're going to boarding school, my turn'll come later.

And the little one?

Don't worry, he's too little.

The boys are brave,

they'll do better without me.

But the food there is pour.

We need to feed them up before they go.

Leo - old friend!

Nice mess we're in, what?

Take a seat. How're things?

How? Bad.

I need to sell the Nejezchleb painting.

Would the boss buy it?

After that fiasco with his wife?

But she might, she had a soft spot for you.

That's all gone with the wind.

Damn it all to hell!

I'll try somewhere else.

Madame!

Lee, is it you?

You should have taken my advice and gone to Brazil.

But your husband sent me there.

You men are so dense.

So it was your doing?

I should have known...

Meaning you'd have obeyed me?

No, but it would have warmed the heart.

You haven't changed a bit!

And what's that?

- A painting. - Show me! You must!

I think you know it.

Nejezchleb.

I could have been painted like this!

How long ago was it?

Who stabbed her?

That was an accident.

No problem to repair.

So you came to Prague to have it fixed.

No, I brought it for you as a gift.

Impossible.

You'd do me a great pleasure and an honour.

That's... wonderful!

Forgive me, I have to go.

Wait! Mr. Dvorak, drive Mr. Popper!

- Not all the way to Monte Carlo, I hope? - No!

- Then fetch me from the hairdresser's. - Yes, Madam.

I could only give it to her.

Doesn't she know how badly off we are?

She lives in another world.

Money won't buy anything anyway.

Don't worry, I'll do something.

I'm on the way to working it out.

Why are your so silent?

I've got it!

Tell me what to pack for them to make it 20 kg.

They need to eat, for strength and stamina.

I'll catch some fish in the river.

Who'll take your shift?

How come you're home so early?

I'm ill. The Doctor's a good friend.

Here's a doctor's note.

The boy's be leaving in two weeks, I'll manage it all by then.

They won't give you a permit to travel.

I'm not going to ask.

And I'm off right now!

I shan't let you go!

Don't be silly!

I've got to do it for the boys.

You understand...

The ferry!

Leo, what are you doing here?

Karel!

I just came, why not?!

- Didn't they stop you on route? - No, why?

You don't know? Assassination. Heydrich.

They did Heydrich in?

Jo. Come along!

In that case I can't stay with you.

You can't go back now, they'd cop you.

Why did you come?!

To catch some fish to feed up my boys.

The two big ones are being take to a camp.

We can't stand here, come on!

What is it?

No, I'm off to the island.

You haven't even seen me.

Let's hope the weather improves.

It's a lovely day for fishing.

I'll take a little straw.

Excuse me, Brindles, I return what I borrow.

Anything there?

Don't get up. In this weather...?

I don't get it.

Nature's being mean to me.

I'll catch some beetles, dig up worms...

...tons of worms!

I'll set up lines for eels.

- Two lines, three... - Come here!

Take this!

Surely they'll come up for that?!

Come on!

We're closed. No drinking allowed!

I know.

Move your hermit off that island.

What hermit?

It's life or death, no joking!

You've got children, so have I.

You see too much.

I'm an intelligence officer, don't forget.

His peepers throw beams far and wide.

Tell him to pack up and go home.

He'll go when he's done what he has to.

Well?

Not a toddler.

The bastards ignore it.

The shitty, slimy snakes they are!

- Maybe there aren't any! - Yes there are.

They're doing it on purpose

because I killed so many and gorged on 'em!

If I jumped in and drowned

they'd eat up my innards,

brain and heart.

Oh shut up, the weather'll change.

Do you think so?

You should know.

I don't know.

Could be.

Lidice. The whole village!

They shot all the men, sent the women to concentration camps

and the children to be "re-educated".

What are you up to?

Stop it!

- Don't be stupid! - My sick-leave ends tomorrow!

Things could always be worse.

No. I need meat for my boys.

If they don't make it, it'll be my fault too.

I haven't got any meat.

Unless I killed my cow for you.

I'll kill the cow today if you like.

Karel, bring me a deer.

You always said game had strength

that stays in the body.

And you said that to kill such an animal

is nearly like killing a human.

I know.

- I haven't seen any around. - I see some every day!

Maybe they're there now.

You may think me chicken but I haven't been at 'em

since the Hun's here.

It's the death penalty for the whole family.

And I have six children...

Lend me Holan, then!

- He wouldn't go with you. - He will!

He's never gone with anyone!

He'll come with me!

If he goes, you can have him.

I'll get him when the moment comes.

Karel!

Karel!

- What? - Where's Holan?

- What were you up to? - There's a big 'un, a deer like a calf.

Don't do it, Leo.

Some Fritzes passed with machine-guns.

- Where to? - Up to the forester's.

That's the other way.

You promised to lend me the dog.

Holan!

Go with him and do as he says!

Take his head in your palms and say! Holan, go!

Then leave it to him.

Stay, you've got a new master! Him.

Holan, come here!

Come!

Come here, Holan!

I need you, see?

I brought you sausages, remember?

Come along, chum!

Holan... come here!

I need you to come with me!

Please, Holan, come along!

Come on, damn you!

I'm a Jew now,

I've got no sausages. I could do with some myself.

I'm a mangy Jew and I need meat for my lovely boys!

And you must get it for me!

So you're not coming?

I'll go alone, then.

Nobody here will ever see me again.

You can all go to the devil.

You, Holan, and you, Karel!

They stared at each other for a long time

nobody knows what their eyes told each other.

Because they are both dead

and they didn't really know themselves.

Maybe they called it a dog's life, or a Jew's life...

...that's as maybe.

Holan!

Let's go!

Holan, go!

Get him!

Go for his gullet!

No!

No!

Holan... you've done it!

They'll take him from us

and we can't even go for them.

They're gutting him...

And in a hurry?

Can't be the Germans, then.

Head forester, sir, it was here... here!

Could be hereabouts!

Come, closer to the river!

They're poachers.

Thanks, boys.

Don't stand there!

Gimme that rucksack! Move!

Hey, mister, stop!

There's blood all over you.

Maroushka, this too, please.

Go and wipe the bike, dear.

I'll do that myself.

Get some strength into you.

You have a long trip ahead.

Thank you.

- Open up! - What's happened?

Open up!

- What happ... - Don't ask, open up!

Come on!

- Hello boys! - Hello Dad!

Come here, you...!

Come here!

Can you see them?

I can still see them!

Look!

Starring

and others

Assistant Directors Continuity

Assistants to Production Manager

Cameraman Cameraman's Assistant

Light Effects

Film Staff

Costume Designer Wardrobe

Properties Assistant Set Designer

Make-up Make-up assistant

Music by played by

conducted by Musical direction

Consultants Choreography

Film Editor

Sound Engineer

Set Designer

Production Manager

Director of Photography

Directed by

- Produced at the Barrandov Film Studios - 1st Dramaturge-Production Team -

Processed at the Barrandov Film Laboratories, Prague

THE END