Original subtitles

Victoria has gone abroad, and Crane has realized that he has simply always been

in love with Joe.

In order to save Douglas Motors from the threat of Japanese competition, Crane

has entered into a suicidal bet with Joe's father, Franklin.

It's like a will, this.

Kind of.

He won't take it.

Who knows?

Not with our name on it.

The headset should take up smoking.

I want you to promise me you'll see a doctor.

Not today.

Today I play games with Stephen.

You're not taking that ridiculous suggestion seriously.

One cannot play games any other way.

You were both drunk.

Stephen embarrassed you in public. Joanna, drunkenness is drunkenness.

But a bet is a bet.

This bet then, right?

From noon, 24 hours without Franklin spending any money. Or anybody spending

on his behalf.

Yep. Then your turn.

24 hours living by the rules of chance, whatever that means. Uh -huh.

What are the stakes?

He loses. He swears to support Douglas Motors for the rest of his life.

You're joking. I lose.

I swear to work for Franklin for the rest of mine.

Some bloody oath. Tipped in your favour or what?

That's debatable.

What do you mean, you soft git? Working for Franklin?

Talk about gravy trains. That's got to be the Orient Express.

Possibly. Or I give myself up.

Hello, officer.

My name's Derek Love.

Hey.

Lucky, isn't I?

I get a choice.

Why are you doing this? It's a challenge.

Parking your car is a challenge, Dad. Answer the question.

All day, Joanna.

I sit at that desk making money. There's no endeavour.

Only words, words and numbers. No combat.

I see.

So you stand to get some exercise.

I stand to get crane.

What does that mean?

Not very adult, Stevie, tickling other men's bottoms.

Anything you can tell me about what's happening today or coming up soon,

anything at all?

Are you asking me to help you cheat, Stevie?

Yeah.

Good.

I'll tell you about solidarity.

What are you doing here?

Attempting myself to persuade my father out of his idiotic competition.

He's ill.

Whose side are you on?

Mine. All the way from now on, I'm fed up with the loss of you.

Could I just say something that's going to embarrass both of us? No.

Losing you was the stupidest thing I ever did.

No, Stephen.

The stupidest thing you ever did.

This is a game.

With my father, nothing is ever a game.

If you really mean what you just said, go in there and tell him that the bet is

off.

Okay?

That's not fair, Jo.

Can't you see?

I'm trying to protect you.

The Japanese are calling for unconditional surrender.

I've sold my share.

What?

Not all of them.

This much.

Don't get too excited, Gavin. Please.

Sorry, I'm just overwhelmed.

Is it enough? Will Nicholas let you in with that?

Yeah.

I mean, yes.

Probably.

Look, Miss John Penny, I know what it means to you.

I don't want you to throw it away, just... Gavin, do you want to live in

house for the rest of your life?

Exactly.

So, we've got to make something happen, agreed?

Something for us.

57 % of capital?

Other investors, what price per share?

262?

Pathetic, Christian.

Sack someone every day, Stephen.

Stimulates ambition in the staff.

At last.

Oh, this interim dividend is good.

Can you imagine that I fail to notice the time?

Seek credit.

That's what I say.

The game begins.

Sorry, sir, but New York have been trying to get through for ten minutes.

do they want?

Next, with a slip from 334 to 296. It's falling fast.

They require your authorization to get rid of it. Yes, yes, of course. Deal

it.

For a little while, I can't buy, Stephen, but I can still sell. Yes?

Now, I am yours for the day.

Don't think you're going to be very good at this game, Mr. Franklin.

Broker fees.

Scheisse.

Hang up!

Hang up!

Not only broker fees, all telephone calls. Money.

Point is, everybody gets a bit of a holiday today. You are the Franklin

Corporation. Can't have little far -flung bits of your making money without

knowing.

So be it.

Expensive decision.

By one o 'clock, that will cost you more than the value of Douglas Motors.

More than the stakes of the bet.

More than my stakes, David.

Not yours.

So, now?

I thought you might fancy a little drive in the country.

It's time for the game.

Tell me about Lech Walesa.

Polish politician.

What do you like to eat?

Oh, Jaffa cakes?

Gefilte fish? I have no idea.

Now, I thought you'd take the trouble to find these things out.

I mean, the poor bloke's coming all the way from Warsaw to have a chat with you

about fundraising. Who told you this?

And you don't even know what he likes in the way of nibbles.

I'm worried. What are you talking about?

I mean, this photo opportunity is going to go a bit flat if you're not... How

shall I put it?

There? Gibberish!

That answer's coming next week.

He's coming in one hour and sixteen minutes.

I asked if the appointment could possibly be changed.

Everybody was terribly accommodating.

They must think very highly of you.

Liar!

Yeah, that confirmed any alteration with me personally.

The second thing with you reminded me this morning.

It's a lie.

I'm sure you're lying.

So, it was good.

It was better than good.

Where's Marcus, by the way?

Still in Germany, walking the flat six round the Black Forest.

We need new markets, Daddy.

This lot up the road, the Japanese, they go into production in six months. It's

going to be bloody tough for us. Yes, I know.

So, where's Stephen? Oh, God knows. If he was ever here when I needed him, I

think I'd faint.

Apropos of bugger all, I've got someone dropping round tonight.

I hope that's all right. Did I tell you I met another famous boozer?

On your card, yes.

Phil, will he eat? There's plenty.

Um, oh, yeah, yeah, good idea.

God, what would I do without you, eh?

I've had Coley in here.

Nice for you, huh?

You made me head of department.

Oh, please!

That's fantastic!

Oh, you must be so pleased. Well done.

You're my boss.

Better not be late for work, then, had you?

Isn't that weird?

Not so much weird. I've hoped it's sexually compelling.

I'm a good bet, Joe.

Getting better.

Marry me.

I've got childbearing hips, everything.

Please, Piers.

Think about it.

I have been thinking about it.

That's your problem?

My car's out of date and I'm 50p short.

Look, you couldn't, uh... No,

I couldn't. Come on, I only need 50p till I get to a cash point.

I mean, I did pick you up.

For God's sake, look, we've both got places to get to, right? It's 50p. A bit

reasonable.

Ingenious, yes.

But I also am not stupid.

What? Tell that to Craig.

Close one. You're wasting my time. I have an appointment.

No, you don't.

That was that game. This is another one. Come on.

Penny and I have been thinking about moving out.

We were wondering how you'd feel about that.

Really?

What about jobs and money?

Penny sold some shares, enough to persuade Nicholas Talbot to let me in as

partner.

Does this situation remind you of anything, Gavin?

Standing in the greenhouse in the rain asking your permission to marry Penny.

Please trust me, Robert.

I've learned a great deal in the last few months.

Yes, I've learned a great deal too.

If you trust, you're a fool.

And if you don't trust, you start to die.

Yes, to foolishness.

Gavin, this is Phil, Daddy's friend.

My husband.

Hello, Gavin.

Welcome to Montrose, Philippa.

Darling. It's so cold. It reminds me of the internment camp.

30 of us herded into a space like so.

You'd think we'd be cozy, but it was colder than hell.

We talked about it, of course. We reduced.

Oh, it's so cold.

Come on, I'll buy you a drink. Stop droning on about your uneventful

and get some brandy down here.

You love my daughter, I think.

Yeah, I do.

Why won't you come and work for me? Why do I have to court you with games? Are

you so proud?

Who knows? Have another one.

You're too generous.

No, you are.

Excuse me, everybody.

It's my grandfather's birthday. He'd like to buy you all a drink.

Cheers. Yeah, I would be amused. You, of course, sir, have the money to pay.

Nope.

Oh, that's quality.

We have to run. Yep.

Cognac! The proper measure.

Gentlemen, they probably want an earth alien on the run.

Yes, yes, of course.

Whatever they want.

I'm not hanging around for you. They won't be able to catch me.

Oi.

Cheers, mate.

I think he's talking to you, Grandpa.

I don't speak to people who call me mate.

Yeah, well, perhaps you should make this a phone.

They obviously fancy the pants of each other.

Gross, isn't it?

Quite fancy, you and I.

Tough. I mean the meth bit.

I can't believe it.

What?

We're free.

Yes, I am drunk, but in the morning I'll be sober and you'll still smell like

shit. It's also transparent, Stephen. This hideous oath is also in your

Franklin, look at me.

These people have got nothing to do with me. They are real. This is not a game.

Hoist by your own fat heart, Stephen.

Smelly and I are not convinced.

How can I make you understand?

This is chance.

This is something I have not planned.

What do we do?

You apologise. If you've got money, you pay for these drinks. The bet is off. I

have no money.

Neither do I.

Don't.

Oh, gentlemen, there's been an embarrassing misunderstanding. When I

young man smells like shit, I sincerely did not mean to offend anybody.

You all smell like shit.

Night on the police station.

Stephen?

What about him?

Don't think it's possible to spend any money here.

What's happening? Are you in pain?

I have to be outside now.

Staying in this place is too small for me.

You might have to open the door.

They won't open the door. We're in custody.

I'm an alien.

I have to leave now, Steve. I have to go.

I'm dying in this room! All right, all right. I'll call Robert. Yes, yes, do

that.

He's fine.

He's pretending it never happened.

I mean, it was a nightmare, Java.

Yeah.

Your father lost.

He knows that, Stephen.

And he hates it.

He hates it so much he won't tolerate it.

You're going to wake up and find that he's got you absolutely trapped.

What is that where you feel when you wake up?

Contrary to public opinion, I don't feel trapped by my father, no.

Bollocks.

What's going on, Stephen?

Now, listen, if you've got yourself involved with a Japanese mafia or

because what's going on down the road?

You get out of it now. Nothing in business is worth jeopardising. Robert,

listen.

It's possible I will do a number of strange things today.

Huh?

Why?

Well, that's one of them already. I can't tell you why.

I see. Anything I can do?

Yeah, back me up.

Anything I say or do, back me up.

Trust me.

12 o 'clock.

My game.

Joanna, this is your father speaking. I have to say that professionally, your

answer for a message does you no services.

You will change it, please.

Joe, it's Piers. Look, I called two minutes ago and you were engaged, so

you pick up the phone now, please?

I want to talk to you. This is so childish, Joe.

Me again.

I'm sorry, I didn't... Look, call me when you feel like it, okay?

Joanna, I called some time ago with a suggestion. Nothing appears to have been

done. Ring me immediately, please.

Look, you won't call me back. I don't know where you are. You're not at work,

I've booked us Friday, Saturday, Sunday at the Feathers.

I've confirmed it by credit card, so I hope that's all right.

Joe.

I won't hold you up, Piers. I just popped in to resign.

What? I'm resigning, Piers, from Clayburgh, and I'm resigning from you.

Come on, Joe.

You're being hysterical.

I'm being decisive.

First you want to be Stephen, then you want to be my father. You keep trying to

guess what I want you to be. Rubbish. When all I ever wanted you to be was

Only that's what I never get.

I don't know who you are, Piers.

It's preposterous.

Please, Jo.

I just don't understand what's going on.

I thought... You thought what?

I thought we loved each other.

We did.

You do.

Then what's the problem?

There's something missing, isn't there?

There's a fundamental connection that hasn't been made. We keep... missing

other.

It's not working for me, Piers.

Please let me go.

Won't make you happy.

Brilliant.

Did you shift an 8 .6?

You're not supposed to ask that yet.

What are our tickets?

Can't run green, the Germans won't have it. Same story all over Europe.

Burton failed to sell the top -of -the -range model.

Not his fault?

A failure, nonetheless.

How terrible it would be if you had to sack me.

It's never occurred to me to do so.

It occurred to you now.

They will toss for Burton's career.

He's my best friend.

Heads or tails, let us be clear about the rules of this game as we agree to

them. All decisions made today are binding.

If you sack Burton, he can never be reinstated. You can never explain why

happened.

You cannot simply refuse to play, Stephen.

If you do, the bet is off, and I am committed to nothing.

Chance was good to you yesterday, Stephen.

Let's see how she fares today.

Tales never fails.

I'll get you another job.

Has this got something to do with him?

Now, Marcus, please, just go now. Stephen, what's happening, man?

Just get your things.

I'll make it up to you. Please.

What am I being sacked for?

Marcus, go, will you?

The

man

in your position should not be allowed to sacrifice the careers and destinies

his friends merely to win a bet.

I think such behavior is irresponsible.

Unforgivably so.

I think such a man should consider resignation.

Trails.

Never fails.

Well, for God's sake, what's going on? What's Franklin doing here?

I don't know.

Who the hell does Crane think he is? What I do know is that if Stephen has

dismissed Marcus, he must have a very good reason for doing so, and I

support his decision.

Oh, well, thanks a bloody bunch, Robert.

I don't believe this.

Robert, I'd like to offer you my resignation. Will you accept it, please?

Yes. Thank you.

What now, Franklin?

I've got two hands. Surely I don't need them both. Let's toss for an amputation.

Steve and Steve and don't be absurd.

Sides, time to give the coin a rest.

Let's give chance a different manifestation.

The company, of course, cannot run without a managing director.

We must find one.

Let's say the next person to enter this office will be offered the post.

and shall be persuaded by whatever incentive to take it, whoever it may be.

Irresponsible. Your word.

You wouldn't risk having somebody incapable run this place?

Stephen, Stephen, when will you understand?

It's the challenge.

Lorraine, ask Robert to go in here, will you? Not a chance, I think.

Huh? Nothing, forget it.

And another bloody thing. Next time you get camp, pal, just take a short walk up

a tall building. Don't come whining to me about it, right?

Marcus, all you've got to do is say yes.

Will you accept the position of managing director of this company?

Piss off, Stephen.

I shall ensure that he takes the post, have no fear.

Joanna, such a surprise.

He told you to come in, didn't he?

He did not.

Chance, Stephen, what can I say?

Joe, get out of here, please.

I drove up from London to talk to you. I'm not going anywhere till I've done

that. Well, in that case, I shall withdraw. You'll stay here and listen to

It concerns you as much as him.

Huh? Good.

Joe.

Do you want me?

Please don't do this.

If you still want me, you can have me. I love you.

It's just there.

Just hanging in there.

I've given up Claiborne's, I've given up Piers, I'm giving up him, but there's

still just a little bit in here that belongs to you.

I was going to throw it out of the rest, but I thought I'd better check with you

first in case you wanted to claim it.

But there are conditions.

I want you here with me all the time.

I want commitment, okay?

Stephen, before you answer this, I think we should have a talk.

Stephen.

I can't even believe you'd consider this.

One last time, Stephen.

What do you mean?

A choice.

Contrived by chance and resolved by chance.

A fitting challenge on which to finish, no?

I've wasted enough time already.

Let the coin design this matter and I'll wave the rest of my day.

Refuse it and you lose.

She's your daughter.

Douglas Malthus? Or her?

Or both?

The odds are in your favor, Stephen.

Tales have failed us both. Surely this time it must be kind to you.

You should have lost.

I would have called off the bet, frankly.

My daughter might need a little convincing.

Wait a minute, you idiot. Let's not do anything.

Steven

has

won a wager on your behalf, Mr. Douglas.

Here's a little something.

A down payment.

Oh, God.

Now, the boy, Burton, here's where.

At the end of the day, Stevie, it's probably just a case of sitting down and

talking to Joe, you know, having a reasonable chat, because, well, heaven

I've had my own difficulties with girls, but if there's one thing I've

discovered, it's that you can't preach...

Ugh!

I was such a fool, Joanne.

Forgive me.

Here, Robert, have this.

Do you know what was going on here today?

Stephen had a bet with Franklin.

That's why he was here.

Stephen had to do everything Franklin asked him to do for one day.

Or something, you know, he had to sack Marcus, resign.

He tried to tell me about it.

It wasn't worth it, Stephen.

Daddy. Somebody better tell his father.

Have we got the number?

He tossed a coin for me.

That's something I can never forgive him for, ever. There's no way that Stephen

would have just... How

can I know that?

I would...

Tell you something that he said, Joe.

About you.

He said that you were the only thing that was real.

And that one day, when he was sure that you both hated each other,

he was going to win you back.

To us.

Sorry?

Never give up.

It's the first time.

What's the first time?

You haven't made me feel guilty.

You've never made me feel guilty about anything ever. I just can't believe he

isn't there.

we can do means today.

Win or lose, Derek Bays.

You got that then, did you?

I was wondering.

I promise.

I just made a bet with a bloke called Franklin.

Tommy told me.

There's a check in there somewhere. Don't lose it.

You're so ashamed of me, aren't you?

You can't even look at me.

Yeah, well... That's okay.

I'm not ashamed of you.

What?

I'm not ashamed of you.

I'll make it better, Dad.

I'll make it better.

I promise.

Hello, Stephen.

Singing like this makes me think.

You're dead, Stephen.

Am I?

Prove it.

Your decomposing body will be found at the mouth of the river three months

hence.

Your jaw was destroyed in the accident.

Dental records are useless. It is only possible to identify you by means of

mouldering personal effects.

Distracting, of course, for all concerned, but conclusive. Do you follow

Who would decompose on my behalf?

Don't feign naivety. This is serious.

David Crane is dead. Derek Love is dead. Choose his successor.

Leave it all behind.

The threat of justice. The chaos of your personal relationships.

Friends, lovers, family.

You could be anybody you wanted to be now.

Anybody.

With my help.

What a wonderful game that would be, huh?

Tonight I have a dinner guest, as chance would have it.

A friend of yours.

I was explaining to Stephen that he's dead.

A jolly useful thing to be, dear boy.

On occasion.

If only for tax purposes.

Listen to me.

Every chain that shackles you to the past and to the future is broken.

You're a free man.

You're as I was when I first arrived in this country.

Stateless, penniless, friendless.

Nothing to look forward to.

Nothing here to cling to.

And I tell you now, that is the strongest way to be.

To have nothing.

Because this is the time, my friend, when you discover that you have an

appetite.

Such an appetite.

That you could eat the world.

Work with me, Stephen.

I have no heir.

No son to travel with me on my journey.

Can I make a telephone call?

Robert? Stephen!

Where are you? Are you all right?

Thank God we thought you were dead.

I'm fine. I'm safe. I'm amongst friends.

I'm sorry if I worried you. Listen, time's running out for me.

I have to tell you two things.

One, cash that check that Franklin gave you.

The company's safe, okay?

It can take everything the Japanese can throw at it. You ever need money, you

just ask Franklin.

Two,

I'm going to turn Derek Love over to the police.

He'll probably go to prison, so you might not see him for a bit.

Stephen, wait a minute. I have to pay the rent.

Are you sure?

Yeah, I'm sure.

Listen. Sorry, Robert. I've got to go. Stevie!

Good luck.

All organs of the body are distressed by sudden movement, particularly

the brain.

Decisions like wine should never be flung about.

Take what you want, then pay for it.

Reasonable?

All philosophy is reasonable.

I took Stephen Crane.

Used him up, burnt him out.

Now I have to pay for him.

But you don't have to pay. This is madness.

You won your bet.

Surrendering yourself as love is crass stupidity. It achieves nothing.

You want to go to jail to clean your conscience.

Sentimental shit.

With money you can buy a new conscience again and again and again.

Appetite, Steve.

Take my hand.

Together we can eat the world.

Will you excuse me a minute?