Original subtitles

This movie is dedicated

To the heroism of all Romanian students and officers in the military schools,

who gave their lives in order to achieve the freedom and independence

of their country, while defending the western borders of Romania

in the days following the 23rd of August 1944 events.

Fix bayonets !

By the Centre, Quick march ! Go forth !

YOU SHALL NOT PASS

Students, you have started the training a few months ago.

Soon, you will go in the line of fire against an enemy who knows how to fight.

I have the feeling you are not able to understand that.

That's why you will die like fools during the first half of hour...

I be damned if I won't get rid of him whenever I have the chance !

It is absurd to believe you could become warriors.

According to the modern war requirements.

Time is short, your enthusiasm mediocre !

So you behave to choose: either you die during the first half hour

under the enemy fire, or you execute our order, no questions asked !

Of tomorrow, the training will happen under real conditions, with war ammunition.

The musician disappeared again How the hell is he doing that ?!

Please forgive me for intervening.

Please go back to your discussion about the war.

Yeah, right, would it not be the same if I did not forgive you ?

- Easy ! - The Germans are exquisite !

Who?!

Wasn't it better in the cavalry ?

- Tired, students ? - No !

- Tired, students ? - No !

Then sing, Mr. Student!

- Sing, sing ! - Let's hear it !

Flat !..

...and very weak...

H 1'! As I do not wish saying Enemy planes platoon, take the parade step. Go !

Good, Mr. student !

Ada!

He's not here !

- Poor them ! - Kids !These guys kills them !

I am coming to you, then.

That's the way to make real humans of them. The German knows well how to do it.

He works them out a lot, but they should be grateful in the end.

He works out yours too, llarie !

Wherever he is... How long will he be there?

Long enough... but it's ok...he deserves it!

llarie, where did he learn how to swear at everybody,

and hate everything about this country ?

How should I know, boss ?

C'mon boys !

- That's the way to create an officer ! - Hey, rookies !

Yes, this also exists strange !

Thank you !

Congratulations my dear !

Were you here too ?

This was a private concert meant only at the German comrades ?

I am sorry, I did not see any notices

"Streng verboten fur ruménischen Offizieren"

There you go !

The excuse for not having been to the war theme today

Stop by the infirmary to see me. You lost weight

Furor teutonicus (lat.)

Aaaaa !

Look Who's coming !

The Master would not pay any attention at all ?

Not even a glance ?

The Master did not consent trundling with us though the buffalo trench.

- He must not dirty his delicate hands! - You shut up I His friend relieved him.

Some people labor through the mud some others sing. The new order !

Are you definitely not going to honor us with an explanation ?

Did your friend offer you some cake ?

And now, breaking news !

Look what I found in the Master's coffer!

I was looking for something to drink. I thought the German pays the fee in nature

But I found this announcement worthy of being advertised.

- Master... - Give it to me right away!

Give it to me, now!

The Musical Reunion in Caransebes is proud to announce the extraordinary concert I

- Please, give it back ! - Playing the piano, the promising artist...

Give it to me, now!

Let's keep so we can praise ourselves for being comrades with a genius.

Or maybe you warn to offer it to your girlfriend...

C'mon Andrei, don't give up !

Good boys... wrestle !

Alexandrel, Petru Aron...

Attention !

The Dragon !

What's going on ?

Nothing. I stumbled and fell Student Dunca helped me.

Continue !

Student Petrescu, come to me !

- Still nice... - Nice what ?

He has enough time to turn you in personally.

What is so special about this musician ? Everybody pampers him.

There is no justice in this world !

Shut up Gica ! Petre, I do not get it .

You were best friends in high school.

You got into fights so many times for him.

You do know !

What is the reason that can break the relation between two friends ?

If you say one more word...

Left shoulder, ARMS !

Present arms !

Too much vaseline, Mr. Student! No free day tomorrow...

We work tomorrow:

Do our chores, clean the toilets, paint the stones in white...

Brush the courtyard. If there's a party, then let's party !

Don't waste your time with me, Mr. Tomita ! Please, look !

The bayonet is shining, the buttons are in place.

Where did you read that buttons are sewn with wire ?

- Please forgive me ! - You missed your training today!

In a more vulgar way, you played hookey

Tell me, Andrei, are you not hurt by your colleague's disregard ?

- No - I see, you consider yourself above them.

No, above all that happens, Colonel !

- And you think it is possible ? - I don't know, I am trying.

In this absurd world we are living in, this is the only normal attitude,

that's why it looks so abnormal

I cannot have a different attitude, and I do not want to.

How nice this sounds: “I do not want to” !

Andrei...

I knew your father. We were friends, comrades.

May I be completely honest with you, Colonel ?

Yes, Andrei

See Colonel, It would have been normal to tell me “ I order you to be honest !"

In addition, I would have answered back: “ I will be honest, Sir I”

I know you met my father at Oituz and Marasesti.

However you also knew him afterwards, when he cracked, a few years later...

Because he did not die, he cracked ! His lungs burst.

While teaching all the bastards music for money.

He wanted me to become what he never did.

You say Oituz and Marasesti,

I say, in the name of my father: Bach, Beethoven !

I was told you are a great talent.

- Well, I... I don't know. - You do, Colonel

The military brass band is so nice ! Why don't you assign me there?

I want to play the trombone or the drums to all my colleagues you tame so well.

They will go away to kill or to burst out !

I would never want to see that day when you would be ashamed of yourself !

I think that day is closer than you think.

So strange ! This is also a form of my destiny.

Other people always knew what’s better for me, than myself.

How to be...

Colonel, maybe there's a need for more courage,

so you can live the way you want it,

instead of killing a stranger with the bayonet.

I want to ask you something: what does “homeland” mean to you ?

An abstract notion.

Used by those who think they have the right to give orders in its name.

- Toma! - Yes Sir!

Take the student and do the training he missed today!

At 10 pm, he will be the watch for the unit flag !

Yes Sir!

Attention !

Left turn !

Forward march !

This notion has a different meaning to each person...

- Do we start the precious activity? - Sit down and take a smoke, damn it !

- I do not smoke. - You don't even smoke...

No, I do not even smoke !

A rather weak man...

What can you do ? This is the human nature !

Hooray !

Forward !

Hooray !

Forward !

Hooray !

Forward !

I am more of a man this way?!

I will better prove my love for this country in this way ?

Wrong !

Too temperamental and useless moves !

The action must be carried out in cold blood. Mechanically!

Was I clear ?

I was very clear, but you did not understand !

You are a young people, with uncontrollable reactions

capable of a certain action only if it is justified even by a single feeling.

Any feeling: hate, love... It is completely useless in war.

Is dangerous !

First row, to the left ! Second row, to the right !

March !

First and second rows, one step forward, go !

Attention !

First row students will slap the second row students !

I said, "first row students will slap the second row students".

Go!

One, two, one, two !

Second row smile, and don't make faces !

One, two, stop winking, one, two !

No. 11, your smile is not a natural one !

One, two !

Hit me, you idiot, or he torments us all morning !

Student Petrescu, do it !

- What did you say, please ? - Nothing.

Stand out of line !

Smile !

One, two !

Attention ! Stop I You, come here !

You come close 10 me and hit me.

If you keep your calm and remain insensitive, you won.

Do it!

When you came near me, you were not calm, nor insensitive.

No!

Captain !

Second row, slap first row !

Attention ! Go !

General, you have the connection !

- Maxineanu ? - Yes, general !

- Be careful. - Yes, sir ! No worries, Sir!

AH will be fine.

I repeat ! Be careful, please !

Yes, General !

Forgive me, I'm clumsy with these boots on.

He won't come. Stop waiting for him.

Did you make an arrangement with him so he cannot come ?!

Do you think that If I was stupid enough to tell you I'm in love with you,

this implies I am also a bastard ?

Please forgive me ! You promised to take care of him.

I will keep my promise. You think I stand no chance ?

I'm afraid not.

Then, all I need is the death of a hero.

1447-1448 Roman the Second,

1448- 1449 Peter the Second,

- Do you not dance ? - Who ? Me ?

- Yes - I never waltzed in my life !

It is so easy ! One, two, three, one, two three...

Come in !

Good evening, Colonel ! I am here to follow your commands !

Please...

You should have gone on leave I am sorry...

Everybody stays here waiting for new orders.

Sit down.

You place two cannons and a few machine guns 0 the roof of the school.

What happens if the counselors will be puzzled ?

We take these precautions for the distinguished counselors.

I actually believe they are quite drunk now.

Well, I do hope so For their sake.

I am quite curious how you will sing after you kill a man.

Maybe I do not want to kill anyone.

What impact will this have over your sensitivity,

a minor one, actually, of low profile, typical to a fiddler, not truly musical.

Music is knowledge and essence not a usual feeling.

Beyond good and evil.

You argue that this serenity is won only once you have killed ?!

Do you have any idea about what is happening in the world ?

- No. - Why?

Because I don't want to.

Do you want anything, generally speaking ?

I think so.

To be myself. That's all.

Is it a lot, is it too little ?

Listen, you could play on this instrument

invented by the devil, for the praise of God,

a Romanian song ?

You have.. this... how do you call it ?

- When I turned towards him - Come quickly to barracks.

I will ask you to forgive us. We must leave.

It is very likely one of the bosses cannot sleep.

- I will tell Andrei you are here - Don't tell him a thing !

God will be the only one to understand you !

Attention, attention ! Do not leave the radios !

We will soon broadcast a news release of greatest importance to the country !

Attention, attention ! Do not leave the radios !

The frontline must have been narrowed again.

Attention, attention ! Do not leave the radios !

We will soon broadcast a news release of greatest importance to the country !

- What the hell is goin'on? - You shut up!

I said “be quiet !"

Aren't you asleep ?

How about you ?

Eheu fugaces, Postume, Postume labuntur anni, nec pietas moram (Horatio).

Years pass by and the piety would not make consenescence go away

Yes, waiting for your command, General !

I understand ! I am honored 10 salute you !

What is it?

We are no longer under war.

Albo lapide notare diem. (Let's remember this day as a big day )

Interesting.

This means you are neither indifferent nor calm.

My talk about your national way of being primitive has infuriated you.

You are weak !

I never said otherwise !

That is why your improvisation was neither calm nor superior!

Beyond contingency, good, evil, primary feelings...

It was propagandism...

A demonstration...

Would you be able to discuss this subject again and mock it ?

Mock it very bad. - Of course I am, but do not want it

Attention, Attention ! Do not leave the radios !

We will soon broadcast a news release of greatest importance to the country.

Alarm !!! Everybody come in the school courtyard !

Dorm one, quickly, follow me !

Assemble yourselves in the square !

Hurry up, student !

In this difficult moment in our history

there is only one way for the salvation of our nation from a total catastrophe:

Our exit from the Alliance with the Axis powers

and the immediate stop of the war with the United Nations.

A new National Union Government has been assigned to fulfill

the nation's will to sign the peace with the United Nations.

Romania has accepted the truce offered by the Soviet Union

Great Britain...

Hans !Johann ! What the heh...

...from this very moment the fight and all hostility acts

against the soviet army will stop.

Also, the state of war with Great Britain and the USA will seize.

Another one !

Be careful, Mr. Student, these are not fake!

Another one !

Hurry up, student ! Ready the bullets.

The dictatorship has ended. AH oppressions stop with it.

The new government equals the beginning of a new era.

Where the freedom and the rights of the nation's citizens are guaranteed

and respected.

With the help of the ally armies as well as the forces of the nation

we will be able to cross the border of the unfair Vienna treaty

in order to free the land of our Transylvania from foreign occupation.

Romanians, the future of our country depends on the courage we will be

able to defend our independence with, against any attempt to our right

to decide our fate by ourselves.

Totally confident in the fate of our Romanian nation

we will follow the road towards a new Romania !

I need someone to come and talk to me ! Surrender !

You were placed ked to keep me here ! What's going on ?

- I don't know. - Come down !

Nobody shoots !!!

My command is stop firing !

I see there is no need to inform you what happened, gentlemen !

- No, no need. - Please surrender your weapons !

You will be treated according to the Convention from...

Colonel, I need to tell you something...

I did not escape El Alamein to rot in a prisoner's camp !

I am afraid you have no other chance, Major !

Colonel, in the name 01 our comradeship of arms...

You have no moral right to talk about this !

You know it as well as me ! You have one minute to decide !

Hold down weapons.

Hold on !

First row slaps second row !

C'mon officer, smile ! Indifferent !! Now !!!

Hands on the wall !

I did not want to make a hero of you. You do not deserve it !

- I report: I did not find him ! - Second lieutenant, he passed by.

- Go on I - Yes, Sir !

Andrei, are you hurl? What is it ?

It is peacetime. Peacetime !!!

Think so?

- What is this ? - A seize from the room of the counselors.

I still have more.

1435-1436 llias... llias... 1442...

23rd of August 1944...

Colonel, I must report ! The soldiers...

Leave them five more minutes.

Four humiliation years deserve five minutes to forget the lack of discipline.

Fourth row, stay in line !

C'mon guys 1 Running Step 1

Sir, student Petre Dunca reports !

Sir, student Petre Dunca reports !

Captain Reinhardt managed to escape.

Colonel, prepare all the documents for Petrescu Andrei,

to release him of his duty.

There is no peace. Our war begins now !

We need people for whom the homeland is everything.

Leave, or I kill you !

Mr. llarie!

Mr. llarie...

What ?

Don't be mad at me I only did my duty.

- What can one do ? A duty is a duty. - Why should We be mad, sir?

If he did not wish to listen to his father's advice, let him stay in jail.

- Now, he will be released - Why ?!

If there's peacetime, no law is to be applied anymore ?

Everyone in his one way ? No more listening to your father ?

That is not possible, boss. Know what ? We'd better have a drink.

Peace ! It's peacetime !!!

Do not stand under the walls !

You have nothing else to do now ?

- Will you help me ? - It depends...

A woman is about to give birth.

We walk and they take the car.

Bastards !

I am happy to have such a help.

Trust me, it will be easy.

How about the division of forces ?

No problem, General.

An infantry battalion and a poor cadet school.

How are you, boy?

Listen, are you not ashamed of yourself ?

You sit like a log. Can't you see who arrived here ?

I can't see. I do not know the one who did not listen to my advice.

I already forgot him.

You recognized me.

He did not!

I was so ashamed...

I, a respected human being With one son in jail.

And you, woman, keep your mouth shut, or I slap you !

- I would not advise to that ! - So, what if he was there ?

Others were also there. However, did he kill or steal ?

He got involved in politics, he was young and brainless, so he did what they did.

That's it ! Whom did he follow ?

A long time ago, I was also involved in politics, with Field Marshal Averescu.

Marshal, listen to me !

If he wanted to be into politics,

he should have done it with Mr. Bratianu, Mr. Maniu... Not with the communists !

He made the laughing stock 01 me !

He went with those guys who steal from people !

Yeah, right, as if they have what to steal from you. The Cuckoo from your clock.

Done! We have nothing to talk about anymore !

Ok, dad, if you say so... Forgive me, mother !

Listen to me, how can you be like that ? Are you not afraid of God ?

What kind of a Christian are you ? - Leave him alone, he will get clever!

Once he asked for forgiveness, we can talk.

So stubborn !

Know what ? All the people in my family are like that.

Let's eat, I'm hungry !

The papers will be ready immediately.

Formalities...

How odd, freedom also needs formalities.

0 fortunati mercaiores (the merchants are the lucky ones)

gravis annis miles ait.

( Said the soldier, after many years - Horatio)

- Take a seat and relax. - Colonel, I need to explain something.

Please !

No need to say anything, my dear. I agree with you.

The time of the artist-soldiers is gone.

In fact, the war is no longer what it used to be...

A long time ago, the fate of an army

depended on one single battle some commanders.

Now the fate of a country depends on that.

Colonel...

The fate of a country depends on the survival at all costs

of its artistic values !

- Where do you wish to go ? - I don't know...

How come ? Well, it's your own business.

Both my question and your answer have something symbolic. Don't you think ?

First aid, a student girl in medicine.

Let me introduce you.

I don't think we need that.

What are you doing here ?

We took refuge in the city when we heard the bombs coming.

I've been here for the past two days Were you not told ?

- Who ? - Petru

Did you come for him ?

No ! For you.

These are my release documents.

Come, maybe we'll find a train to take us somewhere, anywhere !

No, I'm not going anywhere, Andrei!

You feel it's your duty to take the place of a renegade ?

No, I just think I am needed here.

Maybe it's not true. Maybe I'll stay in everybody's way.

That is only what I think, Andrei.

Same way you believe it is your duty to leave.

- Ada, I'm scared. - Don't say that.

- You cannot tell me that - it's not that I will die...

I'm afraid that if I stay here I will never be the same again.

Shut up, don't say a word!

Either in or out!

C'mon boys, let's fall into column !

Move on, team !

This morning, German troops formed of two battalions

supported by about 40 tanks, crossed the Moravita border.

At the same time, the enemy started the attack towards the Mures Defile.

Horthy's troops are attacking in the area.

Your team's mission is to defend at all cost

the Mures Defile, for 3 days.

The main resistance line is on position, between 470m and 510 altitudes.

To the right... - I know, General

Our right is discovered for 20 km.

It is your area.

The General Staff has decided you should occupy the fighting positions

as of tonight.

Please make sure that the boys will rest, at least today.

You did not tell me if you have enough ammunition and heavy artillery.

You are aware of the situation as well as I do, general.

May I ask a question ?

Please !

When do you reckon we can start attacking ?

In a week's time, the earliest.

Colonel, a dubious civilian was walking around here.

He said he wanted to talk to you.

I am a civilian, but definitely not dubious, ok?

Officer, my name is Adrian llarie and I am an ex-political convict.

Here are my papers.

I request to be given a gun and to be included in the army.

- Did you train in the army? - No, I have been arrested before.

Mr. llarie, your decision honors us.

Unfortunately, in all sincerity, we cannot fulfill it.

I understand, you do not trust me, because...

- I have all the faith in you. - Then I request a gun!

Please take him outside the training area.

All right, Officer, maybe we will meet in this life.

I heartily wish that !

Children...

At ease !

The wonder just happened ! The dragon was tamed.

Attention !

Student Dunca, sometimes I would give anything to be a dragon !

With all the 14 splinters in my body, it is rather hard to carry seven heads.

Student Demetrescu, are you a poet ? You keep mumbling all the time.. lyrics ?

Sir, I report:

I failed the admission exam to the University of History.

I know all the Moldovan rulers up to Stephen the Great:

Alexander the Good, llias, Stefan llias, Petru the second, Roman the second

Bogdan the second, Petru Aron, Stephen the Great...

However, when I get in front 01 the exam commission... Empty.. nothing... Sahara!

You will remember it all when you will lace the Germans.

Continue, boys !

You did not return the equipment, student Petrescu ?

They already prepared your travel document. - Colonel...

I wish you luck and all you believe you deserve from this life.

Imagine nighttime. The trench must be dug in total silence.

No noise at all ! First group, go for it !

If you happen to forget again the gun...

I see you understood !

I don't understand why you move so slowly, registrar !

The Russians will be herein a few days. - What a joy !

Joy, no-joy, if the Germans get back they will hang us all.

Therefore, we had better take the way through the forests.

Like our ancestors in times of affliction !

How will I leave my home for which I worked so much ?!

So, the authorities should be waiting for them with bread and wine,

not to upset them.

Well, well... You'd better give a hand here !

Good day g

You are still the mayor?

- You remember me... - Hello, Adrian. How are you?

Did you come a longtime ago?

In the end, you were right about the politics.

Since when do we call each other on our first names?

Who the hell is he ?

Yes, I am a winner.

- And now... what do you want, Sir?

To learn what's new in this village

and chat for a while.

- Here comes the rain. - Let it come. God, may the rain be clear.

Therefore, you go with him, and make sure...

I understand, sir! Of course.

- C'mon ! - There you go, Mr. llarie !

Well, Mr. Mayor, do not be upset please, really you should

not be so scared in front of him ! - You'd better not get involved.

If he wants to talk to people, let him talk !

Who the hell will listen to his stupidities?

- I think... - Don't think a thing, doctor !

Who knows what can happen ? We will judge all things.

If the Germans stay here, they will definitely apply their own order.

If the Russians wins then llarie's son will become important person

Want it or not, we will play by his rules.

Ok, but what will you is doing ? Stay or leave ?

Depends on what happens.

You are all informed that all family leaders

need come to school immediately, to receive important information !

No family leader should be missing or there will be big trouble !

Did I say it well ?

It is so obvious you are young, when I was... I have one question though:

How the hell are we going to face the Germans?

With forks and scythes, like Horia, Closca and Crisan ?

We will loose all we have ?

It is easy for you to talk but my question is:

Have you been in the war zone ? Do you know what that is ?

We go nice and easy to the forest with horses, cows and sheep...

with families, we roast bacon and wait for God's will.

Something is going to happen It always was.

- Our sacred wit ! - Shepherd Avram...

Therefore, he remembers me !

What else is he supposed to do in jail but think of you ?!

I thought of that.

Do you remember when they took Ardeal from us, Shepherd Avram ?

You were at our place, with dad. And you, and you...

I remember how angry you were !

You were shouting why we not fight for our land,

Why do we sit and watch Hitler taking the land and giving it to Horthy!

Who the hell is Hitler to command on our land ?

Who gave him this right?

You all agreed that we should not let them steal the country, and now,

you are all running away. You should be ashamed of yourselves.

You wait for whatever God gives !

The ones who fought and died for this land were so young... kids !

Shut the windows, Mihu !

Nobody says we should come out with our forks ! We can help digging trenches.

We can help with the supplies.

We can even fight, if needed, if there will be enough guns !

Why do we listen to this kid's foolish words ?

C'mon, let's go ! Now, while there is still time !

Please forgive me !

- They won't win with an army of kids! - I thought so, too.

So, where should we run and hide now?

Good heavens, woman, unharness the horses !

People, go to your homes !

Go to your homes !

C'mon, Pavel, you won't get to be the laughing stock of the village !

OK.

llarie, what are you waiting for ?

Cut the wood, we need to cook bread for our soldiers !

Did you not hear your son's orders ?

Orders ? Hell no. He should order other people, not me !

He could have killed you or taken you a prisoner.

I could bet you did not dig your own shelter.

- Shall I dig it for you ? - You could say it in other words, too.

Don't you want me to dig your grave?

- Andrei, Heel guilty lo you. - Slop being foolish I

I must tell you, things are far simpler than that.

Teenager's attitude, in love with the same girl !

Andrei, why did you comeback?

I realized I was afraid.

All my thinking tried to hide that I was afraid !

And I wanted to see it I could conquer this fear, as a very difficult exercise.

Who's on the right hand side ? Is it you, Jancsi (Hun.)

Quiet (Germ)

It is ready now. Very good. You can even take a nap.

Thank you !

- Petru ! - Yes, Andrei !

Petru, I would like us to be next to each other, when all will begin.

We will be.

Stop ! Stay on your positions !

General, I suggest this place as a departure point.

Excellent choice, you have my congratulations !

What will we get, once all is over?

The idea we fulfilled our duty.

Why are you laughing ?

All becomes quite simple when you try to understand it.

Do not shoot !

The position has been reached.

Some of them are fighting for the very first time. They are excited

Idiots !

The connection !

The deer !

Let them get closer to us, as close as 100 m.

- What are you doing Gica? - Watching, just like you.

Ready the machine gun.

Be calm ! Shoot on command !

You did not want to listen to me, when I asked you to dig.

Now, you want a shelter as deep as a fountain. C'mon

- Why does he not shoot? - It's better not to shoot.

What are you doing ?

That's all !

C'mon!

Petru, they are running !

Attack !

Yes Sir!

Attack !

Ready the grenades.

The submachine gun will shoot ongoing. Same for the marines.

Attack !

Take the gun !

The connection with the battalion was re-established.

- Ready the howitzers ! - Yes Sir !

Attack ! Hooray !

Like this ! Stay close to me ! C'mon !

- We need reinforcements I - You talk nonsense !

Maybe we were overrated about our supremacy in this department.

We need strategically positioning in order to finish those ridiculous guys.

Good day colonel !

Take a part of the Mayor's fortune as he deserted his job.

You may leave.

I was informed you organized a stationary group in the village.

If you did not want to give me a gun

Regarding my past, I talked to the people and they understood.

That's all.

Why were you imprisoned ?

Because I talked to people It is a sort of a rage.

Colonel...

What you are doing is much more important.

- I don't know if you realize that - No.

While in prison, when they were beating me up, I wanted to...

Definitely not to be stationary.

That's why I wanted you to understand.

That's why I wanted you to understand.

Want to keep me company ?

Here you go dear, country food. C'mon, eat !

Dear Mister, you did not have to !

Don't worry officer. I am sorry, I do not speak your language.

Only Latin.

- Carry him slowly and return immediately. - Yes Sir !

Commander !...

War is my business War means killing.

Unfortunately, he was the only one doctor from the unit.

So, colonel, what do I do now?

You will have to take his place, miss.

But, for Gods sake, I am a student in the 3rd year only !

They only did a few months of training.

Sir, student Petre Dunca reports.

Group 1 in the first platoon is ready for the mission.

Lieutenant Ionescu sent me to...

Is the Group ready ? Were you given the details of the mission ?

- Colonel, allow me to - I am all ears.

Is it possible for student Petrescu not to take part in this mission ?

- Why not ? You don't trust him ? - I do.

- Did he ask for that ? - No.

Then follow the orders !

C'mon!

Do you know the name of the city to have fallen in 1453 ?

- Berlin ? - You shut up !

I repeat, nobody talks ! We act in complete silence.

We will recognize ourselves with two hand strokes in the cartridge pouch.

- Yes Sir! - Go forth !

If it is urgent, send for me at the defense trench. Continue.

- Why are you smoking, jerk ? (Germ) - Do not understand...(Hun)

Surrender !

Do you hear me ? Surrender !

Bandage g

First group, mission accomplished We captured two prisoners.

Student Petrescu did not return.

He disappeared.

- Did you hear fire shots? - No, colonel. Andrei did not desert

Why did you not show yourself at the end of the mission ?

I... killed a man An officer.

- Enemy! - A human being !

From now on, nothing will be as it was.

After this war, things won't be as they used to.

Not around us, not within ourselves.

Moreover you know that very well. You know, or feet same thing..

Else, you would not have returned.

Colonel !

Other people are also alone tonight, Andrei.

It is the most difficult moment The night before the attack.

Lt. Ionescu, you must take the right wing.

The section in the cemetery uphill.

You have access to two student platoons,

an anti-tank gun and three antitank rocket launcher.

Place student Petrescu with another group behind the cemetery.

The Mission... - I know colonel... No retreat !

Tomita, it is your turn to join in. You have 14 minutes and 10 seconds.

You leave at 5 o'clock.

The shooting of howitzers lasts for a minute and 20 seconds.

They stop at 5 o'clock.

The throwers will keep them on the ground for two minutes.

Use the submachine guns while moving. Then...

We understood !

Attention ! Use trajectory 510 forward !

They are coming towards us.

Follow me boys !

Follow me, you, sturdy guys ! Go forth, boys !

No need. I feel there is no need anymore.

Report to the lieutenant that my mission is accomplished.

I am finished. From now on, you...

I have it from Marasesti.

Forgive me, students. I am only a peasant...

I was running next to Mr. Tomita when, while crossing the bridge...

Attention !What are you doing here ? You guarding the dead guy?

Sir, I report ! We have finished the ammunition !

I am student Demetrescu Nicolae from platoon one. I lost my spectacles...

Stay here, you do not move away from the cannon ! Boys, take the grenades !

You must see for yourselves how nice it is to be a foot soldier. Follow me !

Guys, brothers, I am here !!! Can't you see me ?

C'mon guys, I am the on with seven dioptres, not you.

- Guys, are you nuts? - Don't move!

Good. you pig

Tell me, where is the commander's station ?

I will take you there if you lift your boot off me.

Ok.

Follow me ! This way !

- Hey, you, what are you doing there ? Where are you taking us ?

Where you told me to go.

If you make us run, I will blow your brains off.

I have no other ones as a reserve, so I won't run

From here, we go to the left, for 200 m, then, we pass the block section.

Cross the railway under the bridge, go through gardens for 400 m more

and we are there - Where ?

Where you ordered me. To the commander.

Please !

Colonel, we had no enemy forces in the left wing,

20 landmarks to the left.

From here, we'll be getting to the command station in a second.

We should take a bounce forward.

Bounce forward !

Fire, brothers, I am the only Romanian here !

Nobody moves !

You, who say you are one of ours, are you alive ?

Sir, student Demetrescu reports !

Forgive me, these are not my spectacles and...

I have such a loss of memory... I don't remember anything.

They asked me to bring them to the commander, so I did.

Not quite the commander, but in safe hands.

They are yours. Take them to the colonel.

Maybe I can find out a bit more about their brothers too.

Yes Sir!

1400-1432, Alexandru the Good... 1432-1433, llias...

1433-1435, Stefan 14-35-1442, llias, 1442-1447, Stefan.

1449-1451, Bogdan the Second... 1451 -1457, Petru Aron

I am really good ! Bloody hell, I am so good !

- I don't think the bridge is mined - We should go around it, still.

We need to take over the cemetery until 1 pm.

From that spot, we can control much better the enemy lines.

You have 6 companies and 6 tanks. An extremely quick attack...

- Maybe it's better if. .. - What ?

The best would be a division, or maybe position ourselves over the Urals.

Commander, second scouts group did not return.

We will wait for them up to 1.15 pm Not a second later. Dismissed !

I have no idea what I will do after the war. Did not think about it.

I would have liked to be an officer, but there will be no need for that.

Maybe just a few, when the generals come.

Actually, I would like to live quietly. Have many children.

Sometimes to punish them, then feel sorry for what I did.

I am looking forward to have a party Do you know I never got drunk ?

It should be really great.

Especially when you have something on your mind and would like to forget.

- What do you have on your conscience ? - Well, like everybody... Things, stuff...

Lieutenant, why did we not blast the bridge

once Mr. Tomita has accomplished his mission ?

- Do you smoke? - Thank you, no.

- It was not mined. - Why was not mined, lieutenant?

I see, there is something going on.

This is for the case I would be taken prisoner, right ?

They will not make me talk.

And I will not be a prisoner, under any circumstances.

A charger !

Please forgive me ! I was taken by surprise.

Same as in the army, until you learn everything.

Remember, men are born twice:

Once from their mother, second from the army.

What is this horse thinking about us, I wonder ?

Sir, look !

Landmark 1,700 Enemy Tank! Fire !

What were you in the civil life Lieutenant?

Accountant. You asked me what I was in the civil life.

Lieutenant !

Go to them I

Allow me !

Fire !

Good, boys !

Did you come, boy?

- Sorry, I do not remember your name. - I only asked for a gun.

Broadcast this.

It won't help in anyway.

We were supposed to resist three days. We have been here for 5.

They did not expect that. Me, neither, to be honest.

We must resist until the end.

Because we resisted the first 24 hours.

Because the people in this village resisted together with us.

I understand you really well. But can I also say something ?

- Please do. - I can hardly believe it !

What ?

That a bourgeois officer thinks like that.

Thank you, but I don't smoke.

- I am not joking, colonel - Come closer.

- I am not joking, colonel - Come closer.

- Are you from these places ? - Yes

- Do you know the people well ? - Like my folks.

I need someone who knows how to go between the from lines, as far as Sipca,

where the division commander is.

To bring the situation to General Roman's attention.

We have no more ammunition. I need a man who can cross the lines anyway.

- I will try. - I thought of you too.

This is a good one.

- What are you doing there, kid ? - Nothing.

I am looking for some of my things.

You brought me a lot of trouble with this policy of yours.

If only you would get wittier.

We will talk about that some other time, father !

Did you get a military mission ?

How do you know that?

I was in a war in Gaflcia and Italy.

We need ammunition, dad.

Are you aware that, ever since I returned we never shook hands ?

Don't make the laughing stock of me !

This is a poor country if young stupid people run it !

Kid, do you hear me ?

Tell me kid, damn it, where have you been ordered to go ?

Dad, go home!

No way, do you hear me ?

I hope you won't be hurt, or anything.

You know your mother has a weak heart.

So Dad will go.

You know what he was in the other war, right ?"Fanrih" !

Do you know what that is ?

Ensign at the most prodigious unit of Mountain Troops.

They will catch us if we are two I must reach Sipca.

Be a darling and go home.

To Sipca?

We will be using two roads. That's it !

I'd better go all by myself. I know what to do!

You listen to me, once in your life !

The connection with the howitzers was re-established.

Sir, the enemy attacks the cemetery again.

Our phone... is no longer.

The Lieutenant is at the bridge He did not come...

Boy !

- Yes, sir ! - The car !

They took the locker.

What should we do with them ?

Why v

The Quota has been taken Send the heavy artillery.

Stop !

Stop !

Bayonet up !

Attack ! Follow me ! Go forth !

Fire !

Brothers, follow me !

To hell with this entire world !

They shall not pass !

Fire !

Go on dabbing !

Boil some water. Someone bring towels, sheets and clean clothes.

It's nothing serious...

- Is it serious? - We need a doctor.

Not me. I don't know what to do.

- I don't know... don't know - You must !Try!

Ada, Andrei must live !

We are leaving, boys !

Midwife, ask the peasants to bring the gas lamps.

And as many mirrors as possible.

What a shame Captain Reinhardt ! What a shame !

We cannot conquer this hill defended by kids.

Lieutenant Colonel, their resistance was surprising. I thought...

I hardly care what you think.

But you will see how much General von Straube will care !

He moved the right hand tanks and now he can see the Russian tanks showing up.

Local people are helping those.

Must I explain an SS officer how to proceed in such situations ?!

A spy was captured. He was in the resistance movement.

He came from the village of Teisani. Even the mayor recognized him.

- Indeed, an important communist! - Bolshevik...

Bolshevik, as you say !

What is that stupid guy saying ?

We will shoot the spy and make an example of him.

He did not want to admit it, but he acted under order.

Accomplish it !

Let's go !

Damn!

What's this theatre ? Can't you use other methods ?

Lieutenant colonel, we wanted to set an example.

Then hurry up!

Finish this nonsense until 9 am.

Are you afraid llarie ?

What shall I tell my wife ?

Tell her to take care of the boy.

She knows the rest.

I told her everything during all these years.

Go home now, father. You do not belong here.

You will have bad dreams afterwards.

- Forgive... - He-s one of us.

It is ok, if this is the tradition...

Aim !

Long live Great Romania !

Fire !

Inexperienced kids...

Lower the bayonet!

If so, then long live the communists, too !

Andrei, I have no anesthetic. If it hurls, scream. As loud as you can.

And don't move at all.

- Please. - I will hold him.

Scream, Andrei ! Please, scream !

Scream and show me how desperate you are to live.

Everything is so simple, it's just that I did not know it.

We spent our childhood together and one day... It did happen.

I discovered that in a second we are no longer kids.

Instead of making us scream with anger, this discovery

made us extremely happy.

A sort of foolish pride. Just the two of us in a crazy world.

Maybe the music also... Maybe... I don't know. Maybe not.

Then my best friend showed up.

My defender. The one who fought for me, instead of me.

Simply, Andrei. Just that. Simply...

Like a postcard.

Next to you, I was happy I could keep quiet.

On the other hand, maybe I was quiet, afraid not to say stupid things.

Next to him...

O, God, why do you make things so complicated ?

- Everything is so much simpler today. - Actually, yes. That is what I meant.

I learnt this today. All is simple, very simple.

He stopped breathing.

Breathe !

He must breathe !

Don't worry, we will pass. The ammunition will be there on time.

Be careful ! The main line in Milova is mined

Boy, come with me.

The General wants lo congratulate you, personally.

Me ?Why? I did not do anything.

Ok, Mr. Grigore.

Hello, the Arrow ! The train left at 11.50 pm.

AH was loaded according 10 the order.

Enemies have been spotted in Milova.

- Do you know the line well ? - I do, Sir !

I've been working around here for years.

We are getting closer to Milova What do we do ?

Well, Mr. Grigore...

The mainline might be mined. How about the others ?

It's all in the switch. I say we stop before the Canton.

Hey, so you are a peasant's son indeed !

We've been waiting for them in vain. In Milova, the Germans have mined the line.

Maybe some planes will show up too, and we're all turned to ashes.

The order says we should stay here and wait for the ammunition train.

Is this the only order? No other ?

No other. So, please be quiet and wait !

Strange order...

Alarm ! Gather !

Avram, did you understand well ? Is this how we arrange it ?

If this is how the colonel wanted it... He must know what he is doing

That's why the Germans did not get to you. Forget that cigarette ! We don't want that.

Sooner or later, the enemy will forcedly cross the trench.

Our new alignment will be a big surprise to them.

I am asking you to stay as close to each other as possible.

And also strictly abide all we established.

The main strike will happen at the bridge.

Ionescu, all is up to you now.

The army commander ordered we should resist until nightfall.

Your mission is to stop the enemy from retreat.

- Is it working ? - It must work.

Hey, boy, could you ever imagine we are such cowards ?

In the other war, when I went with your father...

If they unloaded the ammunition, the carriages can leave.

As far as keeping calm, I have nothing more to add.

Each one with his 'babies' Go for it !!

Fire !

Go up!

Go forth !

- How is it ? - I did not expect this wheat thing.

Sometimes, history is written like that.

Maximilian the Great !

Did this block you for days ? The bridge is not mined at all.

The school commander is a romantic fool. From the French school in Saint Cyr...

The counterattack with bayonets comes next.

I have the feeling you are the fool.

Stan engines! 2-103

- Ready for attack ! - 2-105

- Ready for attack - 2-170

Ready for attack !

You must go to that location and make the connections.

When the last tank reaches the bridge, you count to five and turn this key in.

- You said it is not mined. - And I will answer the same - it isn't.

On your marks, boys !

Full speed ahead ! After you crossed the bridge, form a B5 !

Feel free to kill all !

Cross the bridge in quick step I will cover you. Go !

Fire ! Fire !

Full speed ahead over the bridge ! Go forward !

Fire !

Fire !

Fire !

Order paper no. 346, issued on the 31st of august 1944, 10 am.

I command the great units of the 1srt Romanian Army

to turn to attack, together with the Soviet Tank Units.

In order to cast out the Nazi units, beyond the Western border of the country.

Fire !

Now !

Fire !

Ready, Aim, Fire !

Left shoulder, ARMS !

Left Turn ! Forward !

Ada!

Ada!

He lives !Andrei lives !

Detachment, To the Right Salute I

Just kids...

They were just kids, General...

The End