Original subtitles

This film is a loose, poetic interpretation of the life of Maestro Giacomo Puccini.

All day this music!

And they made me kill my rooster because he woke everybody up! Damn!

They never quit: when she's through with howling, he begins with the piano!

A fine pair!

Mr Puccini! Mr Puccini! Is this a nice way to behave?

Good morning! Happy rising!

You see, I didn't wake you up, out of respect. But I left a ticket!

I've got 200 of these tickets! I'm also broke because of your piano!

Don't worry, today we'll settle it. - We Milanese are punctual with paying!

If you want to stay at a decent house…

Didn't he say, he'd settle it? Don't you know the Maestro won 20 competitions

and that his opera will be performed at La Scala?

You've been telling me that for 7 months!

Once he signs the contract, we're gone! Because you prefer roosters to musicians!

Musicians! I'll throw them out: Him and his soprano!

Wait!

Well done, Cristina! I didn't think you were so determined.

When it comes to Giacomo…

Hey, guys, then it's certain? We got it, right?

They're talking about it everywhere. - Your opera will win, trust me.

Tonight, we celebrate!

I suggest a salmì.

No more coffees and pawnbrokers!

Don't worry, you'll get your violin back. - You can gimme that 10 lire.

I'll pay the rent and the landlady and do a little shopping.

Come on, guys, Milan is ours! - Ours!

And what gift did you ask from Giacomo? - Me? Nothing.

Once, I asked him to show me Lake Como, but he forgot.

4 coffees! Hot and brimming!

Make them look like 8! With the usual cream.

Hey, Fontana said he meet us here at 10.

There's Fontana! Just leaving the Palazzo Sonzogno.

Come on!

He's calling us! They've posted the results!

Are you happy, Giacomo?

I feel like my life begins today.

What happened before, no longer matters.

I'm happy too but I'm afraid.

Afraid of what?

You always think about Lucca.

What do you know about Lucca?

Long live the winner of the competition! - He was the best of all!

Yet Giacomo's music has merit.

What about your libretto? It's not good enough, Fontana.

You must do like me: I haven't sent a painting to a competition in 10 years.

I was so sure. I was near him day and night while he worked.

Maybe they didn't even read it. We mustn't give up!

Tonight there's a gathering at DeCarlo. Try to get him to come.

Leave the invitations to me. Come, guys, there's no time to lose.

I know what I must do: go home.

When one loses, he loses.

But no! Fontana doesn't want to give up. He wants to go through with it.

At DeCarlo's, there will be all the music bigwigs. You must go.

It's useless. Who'll pay for these coffees? I don't have a cent.

Are you really leaving?

Yes. I've made up my mind.

A man, Giacomo, must not return defeated to the woman he loves.

Perhaps that I've lost that woman forever. She has probably already forgotten me.

But you love her all the same. You can't disappoint her.

Cristina…,

I've given you so little since we've been together.

Why do you stay with me?

Giacomo, what matters now is that you defend your opera.

I know it note by note. It's beautiful.

I don't know.

After all, we're all failed opera writers.

My father, my grandfather. I do nothing but continue the tradition.

Maybe they weren't failures. They were weak. And now you are too.

No, Cristina. The committee won't reverse its judgment.

Believe me, it was an injustice. They will understand. They must understand.

Great people tonight, Enrico.

You won't regret your place with the Visconti.

I wouldn't have accepted this family, Maestro Boito,

if I didn't know the kind of people who frequent it.

Hey! - What is it?

The one who rents the costumes must have got my size wrong.

My shoe's killing me. - Take it off.

Think I can? - Who'll see you?

Where is this Puccini? - He's here. Shall I introduce you?

Well, I don't know what I could do for him.

I'm going to find him. Excuse me!

Giacomo! Giacomo! Come!

Giacomo, the illustrious critic: Filippo Tardi.

You…would you be Puccini? - Yes, I would be Puccini.

My friend Fontana told me about your case.

I'll try to take an interest in it, young man.

But as you know, the decision is final. The rules are clear.

Just out of curiosity, dear Puccini,

how does inspiration manifest itself in you?

You're making fun of me, aren't you? - Oh, what do you mean?

It seems to me a legitimate question, if you are an artist.

All right.

If you want to really know. My urge to smoke increases.

You could've written it in the score.

Maybe the committee would've rewarded you with a pack of cigars.

See, he was making fun of me. I know that is a countess's house…

Giacomo! - Let go of me! - Calm down! He was joking!

Don't joke about 8 months of work and 10 years of hope gone!

You say it's witty but I say it's wicked!

And they said that some of you could help me!

You're only capable of making fun of me! For renting a suit for this occasion!

My poverty makes you laugh, doesn't it, Countess? Out of tune with your salon!

And that's why, right? That's why you think my music is worthless!

By God! Here is my music!

Sorry. I didn't know.

One moment! One moment!

If Boito's opinion is still worth anything,

I tell you that this time the committee got it wrong!

I'll open a subscription immediately, so this work can be performed!

A great idea!

Wait, Cristina!

Where are you going? Tonight we must celebrate.

No, it's better I don't see him.

Giacomo deserves nothing from me. I haven't seen him for a month.

You know how it is: when you work, you're capable of even forgetting to eat.

The opera was being staged, rehearsals… Come back on the stage.

I'm sure he prefers it this way.

Tomorrow morning, I leave for Bergamo. I have some work.

What? You want to leave like this? Without even saying goodbye?

I'll write him a letter.

Bye, Gianni.

You're the only one who's been nice to me.

Thank you.

Whoah, Peppino!

So then, are we still going around this carousel?

Get to the corner and turn back. - I get it: back and forth, on and off.

Hey, Peppino. Let's go.

Hey, stop!

Hey! - What is it?

Didn't you hear a whistle? - What?

Oh, no! That's the train from Baggio!

Don't worry, Mr Musician, I'll telling you, everything will be swell.

Even Giuseppe Verdi was scared like you at his first performance.

Giacomo! - Fontana, I'm here! What is it?

Come quickly! The audience is going mad!

How much? - Go on, paying can wait.

Thank you!

Come, the publisher Ricordi wants to meet you!

"Dear Giacomo, adieu."

"When you read this letter, I will be far away."

"I stuck around for the moments when I could be able to help you."

"Helping you in your work and sharing in your suffering."

"Thus I returned the love you gave me without ever loving me back"

"and which was life to me."

"Today, there's no longer a place for a person like me."

"I was the one for the sad times."

"And now, Giacomo,"

"you will know only happy times."

There he is! - He's here, guys!

Bravo, Giacomo! - You're our pride!

All your friends from Lucca are here!

Long live Puccini!

Puccini is here! - Stop a moment!

Lucchesi! Giacomo Puccini is back among us!

I've a friend I must salute.

He saw Giocondo!

Let's hope it doesn't come to blows like usual!

Hey! Hey!

You look happy to see me again.

Were you expecting me to pick you up at the station?

I need to say a couple of things to you. - And me, 5: Get out of my way.

Wait, Giocon', I need to talk to you about Elvira.

What happened to her? You're the only one who can tell me.

Beppe, put away those empty ones.

Why don't I hear from her anymore? It's been 5 months since she's written.

Finally, I have a way to be satisfied. I'll give you a disappointment.

You still remember? I loved her but she loved you.

I let off steam by fighting but you got her anyway.

Go on.

3 year ago when you left, I had a thought, I could slap myself now but I had it:

"Maybe I wasn't born to marry out of love but to marry out of interest." - And so?

And so I started working like a black. I achieved a certain position.

Then I bought a new suit, a bunch of carnations, and went…

To her father?

And did she accept you? Elvira married you?

No. The old man threw me down the stairs.

She was engaged to a count, a certain Checchi, 1200 hectares of land.

The ceremony will take place in 2 days.

I hope she forgot you, otherwise it would've been better if she married you.

After all, for me it's all the same but at least she was happy.

Bye.

Elvira!

Elvira…

I knew you were back.

So I waited…

for you to pass by here.

Were you waiting for me?

For a long time.

How beautiful you are, Elvira.

You… are still the same, aren't you?

Unfortunately, I haven't changed.

Only things between us have changed.

Come.

So you're getting married?

You see, Giacomo, our lives

are quite different.

You're an artist and I'm a…

I'm sure it's better this way. - Elvira,

It was your father who influenced you. Only one thing counts: that I love you!

What should we do, Giacomo? - We must never leave each other.

Nothing must separate us anymore. - But now…

I've made a promise. - You mustn't.

You mustn't. There was already a promise: The one exchanged here between us.

Yes, many times…

Elvira, I lived in Milan for 2 years just for this:

To win my battle, come back and marry you and so I will!

It's impossible. My father will never consent.

And I'm not of age to do what I want.

But you can't do what he wants: Marry a man you don't love.

I can't live like this anymore, Giacomo. I'm desperate.

Help me.

My love, come away with me. We'll get married right away.

Yes, yes. We will be happy, won't we?

Of course. Every day. Forever.

My father is unfair. He wanted to scare me.

But I'm not scared anymore. - My love!

Don't be discouraged, Giacomo.

And I…

I promised you that in Milan, success was waiting for me.

Hey, carriage! - Busy.

The audience seemed to be asleep when the curtain fell.

Not even a round of applause.

I disappointed you, right?

Disappointed? You can never do that.

Tonight, you'd have every right to be.

Because Edgar went badly? How stupid you are!

What do I care if they like your music or not? I love you.

So you don't care about my music?

No, I only meant that your failure cannot disappoint me.

My love is above everything. Am I saying it wrong? - No, Elvira.

But, tell the truth: Even you didn't like my opera.

Giacomo, It was enough for me that you wrote it.

I don't understand the public, the critics. I only know that this music…

is yours and that you suffer.

Yeah, and the audience suffered too! But it doesn't matter.

Besides, I deserved it. I gave too little importance to the libretto.

Next time, Ricordi will listen to me. I'm the composer and I choose the libretto!

Elvira, you still have faith in me, right? You'll see.

I believe in you, Giacomo, with all my heart.

Hey, carriage!

Via Mascheroni 13.

"The council applauds the work of its president, Commendatore Giulio Ricordi"

"for his profitable business abroad. In his absence, he has decided:"

"First: The contract with Giacomo Puccini, composer. The contractual terms expired,"

"proven by the financial records of the strong liabilities of the opera Edgar,"

"the fee of 200 lire a month is considered exorbitant."

"The board does not consider it suitable to renew the exclusivity agreement."

Elvira! - Giocondo! Stop.

Ma'am, the price doesn't include stopping. - One moment, please.

I didn't know you were in Milan. - I moved, you see.

Since when? - 10 days ago.

I couldn't stay in Lucca anymore since I couldn't see you every Sunday.

Do you judge me harshly? - No. How can you think so?

I said, "If she'd gone with me, I could have justified it but…"

And the others? - The others don't matter.

Have you seen my father? - I see him every Saturday at the market.

They say he means to forgive you. - Yes, on one condition:

that I leave Giacomo.

When you're married, it'll all pass over.

Soon, his consent won't be needed. What matters is that you're happy.

Yes, of course. That's what matters.

Ma'am, what are you waiting for? It's raining. - I'm coming.

We're moving house and if…

Elvira,

if you ever find yourself in trouble, Giocondo will always be there.

I know. Thanks.

But it won't be necessary. Really, we're fine.

Now then! Ma'am, let's go!

Come and visit us: Via Solferino 73.

Giacomo!

Hi! - Hi.

Won't you say if you like it?

A palace.

With the old summer blanket, I want to make a magnificent curtain and…

Where is the piano?

The piano? - Yes. Where is it?

What happened? Why didn't they bring it?

I couldn't pay for it. I asked the owner to come back but…

You didn't renew the rental?

You haven't used it for a long time.

You wanted me not to use it anymore, right? That was your plan!

You want me to put on my slippers and get a job like those husbands you like.

Giacomo, you can't say that about me.

I'd like to help you, really. - So you say!

But you don't think it.

Else, you would've known what I expected from you:

a word of encouragement, a spur to my work.

Elvira, I need help, you understand? Much help.

Why did you have my piano taken away?

To save me a few lire?

Giacomo…

I bought this.

Forgive me!

Whom do you want? - Ricordi.

I'm speaking to him even if he's not in!

Stop! Mr Giulio is in a meeting!

Mr Ricordi! - He wanted to force himself inside!

Never mind, Brambilla. - I can see you at last.

Nowadays, I get to speak only with ushers, secretaries, vice presidents!

Now you must listen! I finally found the right story for me.

I want to write an opera about love. This one.

But Massenet has already written one. - What does that mean?

Massenet wrote his. I'll write mine. - Manon!

See? Even Giacoso and Illica are surprised by your strange idea.

Why? Aren't they capable of writing a different libretto?

Maybe, but we don't see the point. There's one that's already very good.

Then Raphael shouldn't have painted Madonnas because there were others!

How can it be done, dear Puccini? Your track record hasn't been brilliant.

The board of directors… - Yes, I know!

They'll say I haven't given back enough for the 200 lire per month I was receiving.

But you imposed that libretto on me! I said, "I don't feel Edgar!"

You can't expect me to put the times tables to music!

And you can't expect me to revoke a decision of the counsel,

only because I like you.

Mr Ricordi, I live in an attic with a lady expecting a baby.

We've been eating potatoes for a week.

I don't even have a piano.

Well… Look, let me study the case.

Come back in about 10 days.

I get it.

I know very well what "come back" means.

Hey! Hey! What do you want here?

Elvira said you had come to Milan. Looking for me?

I'm looking for Elvira.

But while you're here, I want to say something. - Go on.

First, I saw the furniture.

Now I see the house. Is this how you keep her?

Look, Elvira is fine. She doesn't need anything. Got it?

What's your job? How much do you earn?

Just enough for me and her. Say another word and I'll break your face!

Mr Puccini! Where did you run off to this morning?

They rushed the lady to the maternity hospital!

When? - 3 hours ago.

Where? - In Viale Piceno.

How is she? - Shut up! How does this concern you? How is she?

How should she be? In labor. Maybe you're already a father.

Will you lend me a lira for the carriage? - Yes.

Would you mind keeping this? - No.

I brought them for the lady. - Yes.

Thank you. - You're welcome.

He's very beautiful, you know? He looks like you. Completely.

Are you glad it's a boy? - Yes. I'm proud, Elvira.

Me too, very much.

Giacomo…

Now I'm sure we'll be able to understand each other better.

I don't want to displease you anymore. I know I have, sometimes.

Not true. Whatever happened between us, was all my fault.

You'll see, starting tomorrow, it'll all be different.

Everything will be more beautiful, love. - Of course.

I love you, Elvira. Like my music. More than my music.

More? - More.

We mustn't tire her too much, Mr Puccini.

Tomorrow, I'll bring you lots of flowers.

I'll bring you some every day.

Come on. Let's go, boys!

Who is this for? - Dunno. There's a gentleman…

The key was in the door and I let myself in.

They're carrying up a piano. - It's for you, dear Puccini.

But there's more: Illica and Giacosa are already writing the libretto.

Here's some paper which I hope will be returned with quality music.

And this is the score of Massenet's Manon.

To remind you that you must surpass it, if you want to win your battle.

And look, Massenet has gone very far.

And here is a check for 400 lire.

Mind that my associates won't find out. It's a secret between me and you.

What is it? Something wrong?

Thank you. I thank you.

In those soft lace hangings…

In those soft lace hangings…

Oh, Ma'am! God bless you! And the baby? How is he? - Asleep.

I've got run up so he won't catch cold.

I'll come by later to bring that darling a gift.

Do you know if my husband is home? - I don't know.

In those soft lace hangings…,

In those soft lace hangings,

in that gilt alcove…

Giacomo! Giacomo! Giacomo!

What is it? Mrs Elvira!

What happened? You just returned home?

Alone?

How these men are!

And we have children for them! How stupid we are!

Wait here.

Mr Puccini! Mr Puccini!

What's wrong with you?

Your wife has been standing outside for an hour! Don't you hear her? Hurry up!

Elvira…

Don't touch me! - Elvira…

We've been waiting for you for 10 days. Waiting! Waiting! How could you…

forget even him?

10 days?

Forgive me.

Since Ricordi entrusted me with the opera, I've lost my head.

I was no longer myself. I had only one thought day and night: Work on Manon!

Manon? I hate Manon!

There'll always be Manons between us and I will hate them all! All!

How are you? - Bravo!

For the first time in many years, I'm staging an opera and I feel calm.

Sit. But I feel I've done a good job too.

I've prepared a nice surprise for you. - Not the Knight's Cross?

In those soft lace hangings,

in that gilt alcove,

there is a silence, a mortal chill,

there is a silence, a coldness that turns me to ice!

And I who was accustomed

to a voluptuous caress

of ardent lips and passionate arms

now have something quite different.

Oh, my humble dwelling,

you again appear before me,

cheerful, secluded, white-walled,

like a sweet dream

of peace and love!

Well done, our wonderful Manon!

How are you, Maestro?

We haven't seen each other in a while, right?

Cristina! - What? You know one another?

I never would've imagined it. Miss Cristina has always sung abroad these last years.

I can't even surprise you!

Yet the surprise is there, dear Ricordi.

Right, Maestro?

Puccini remembers me very differently. I was a girl then.

Am I not right?

After all, I'm very grateful to you, Maestro.

I learned many things from our old friendship.

But let's talk about Manon. - What do you think about it?

It's marvelous. Manon will belong to all the men on earth.

Never have I seen

such a woman!

To tell her: I love you,

awakens my heart to new life.

“My name is Manon Lescaut.”

How those fragrant words

linger in my spirit

and caress hidden chords.

Oh, gentle murmur,

pray never cease!

Oh, gentle murmur

pray never cease!

“My name is Manon Lescaut.”

Oh, gentle murmur, pray never cease!

Never cease!

Never cease!

What a great crowd! It seems they like the opera.

Tonight, I feel all the public is with me.

Isn't it wonderful to be here?

How well this suit fits you. - You think so, eh?

I must go on stage. Excuse me. - No, don't go.

I don't want to be alone. I'll be more at ease, if you stay. Please.

We can see each other at intermission. Wait for me here on the stage. Bye.

Giacomo…

Dear Ricordi! - You hear that?

If this continues, it'll be a triumph.

"Massenet wrote his and I'll write mine." You remember?

It seems the public agrees.

The Buenos Aires Opera director heard about you from the manager.

He wants exclusive rights for South America. He'll join us at intermission.

I came to this full of misgiving. You know how much I love Massenet.

I don't know what happened but I cried throughout the act.

I believe it. Puccini is no longer a hope, he is a certainty.

I won't let him escape me. Tonight, we'll have him in my salon.

Where is this Puccini from? Veneto? - No, piemontese.

I think a town near Asti. - Don't make me laugh! He's from Milan!

In short, at least as far as education. Entirely from our conservatory.

I've seen him. He's a magnificent man: refined, elegant, enchanting.

They say he's a womanizer.

Don't you know Puccini? An adorable man.

You'll see him tonight in Mazzoni's house. An irresistible Don Juan!

Is this irresistible Don Juan married?

Carlotta says he has a friend, a kind of wife and that he neglects her.

He can't afflict her on society because of her irregular position, you see.

They also talk about South America.

A man of the theater, an artist and a man as handsome as he is

can have it all, if he wants: Me, you, everything!

If he's married, I wouldn't want to be in his wife's place!

Farewell.

Dark is the night.

I’m cold.

Was your Manon loving?

Do you remember?

Tell me, the splendor of my youth?

And I shall never see the sun again!

My God!

My faults will be…

…forgotten,

but my love…

…will never die.

Is the lady looking for someone? - Maestro Puccini.

Whom should I announce?

I am Mrs…

I am Mrs Puccini.

Oh, you should've said so. I'll go let the Maestro know.

No, wait.

I want to surprise him.

Then, look, Ma'am, the dressing rooms are back there.

Let me announce you, it'll be better. - Thank you.

Where can I find Maestro Puccini? - There, in Mrs. Vernini's dressing room.

Excuse me, Ma'am.

Is this the stage? Will they let us in?

Come, I'll show you the way. It's like home to me.

Really? How good!

The carriages are waiting for us at the artists' exit, we must hurry.

Puccini! Puccini! Maestro! All of Turin is waiting for you.

I received your invitation. I don't know how to thank you. It's an honor for me.

The Viscount of San Lazzaro, the Countess of Cortipradi,

the Tomassone family, the Duke of OImo. I wasn't lying, dear. All of Turin!

Shall we go? You're alone, right?

Yes. Of course, alone.

Excuse me.

What a pleasure! He's coming? - You see?

Elvira!

I looked everywhere for you. I thought you went back to the hotel.

Did you see what happened? - Yes.

I'm invited to a shareholders' meeting with Ricordi at a countess's home.

I can't miss it, Elvira and I don't think you'd like it.

Maybe you better go back to the hotel.

Order some sparkling wine on ice, I won't be away more than 2 hours.

Want me to go with you?

You don't have to wait, Giacomo. It's a few steps from here to the hotel.

You'll see, I'll be back soon.

Bravo!

Congratulations, Ma'am! A perfect Manon!

What will you do now, Maestro, after this amazing success?

I'll buy a little home in Torre del Lago.

Shall we all go?

Yes, with pleasure!

Mr Fanelli. If you want, you can go home.

I knew all along, it was you playing. - Darn it… Oh, sorry, Mrs Elvira.

You see, Giacomo went hunting and didn't want you to worry.

Don't worry about me. - Yes, but you see, I…

Go home, Mr Fanelli. - Yes, I'll go now.

But I swear to you: Giacomo went hunting.

But when spring comes,

the sun's first rays are mine.

April's first kiss is mine, is mine!

The sun's first rays are mine!

A rose blossoms in my vase,

I breathe its perfume, petal by petal.

So sweet is the flower's perfume.

But the flowers I make, alas,

the flowers I make, alas, alas, have no scent.

What else can I say?

I'm your neighbour, disturbing you at this impossible hour.

Giacomo!

What happened? - She found me out. Certain tasks, I won't do anymore.

What did you say? - You went hunting. - And then?

She knew very well what you were hunting. - Why? What did she do?

Nothing in particular. Just the way she looked at me and told me to leave.

Giacomo, I know women. She's found out all. Trust me.

Cristina! Cristina, stop!

Cristina, where are you're going?

Where I'm not in the way! - Wait!

Don't you know Elvira knows all about us?

So? Haven't I always known about her?

What's the difference between us? Tell me once and for all!

Why must I endure all the humiliation like one coming here hiding like a thief?

You're unfair when you talk like that. - Unfair?

It's always unfair, when it's about you.

Remember that before Elvira, we're both guilty.

Really? So that's the difference:

I'm the culprit and she's the victim. I owe her some consideration, don't I?

Forgive me, Giacomo, but… when you talk like this, it seems…

that I've always stayed for you what I once was:

second-best.

I don't know how long I can go on like this.

Cristina… - Ma'am!

What is it? - The wind's rising.

OK, the lady will be right there.

Goodbye.

We'll see each other again in Turin. For the rehearsals of La Bohème.

Elvira…

Elvira, you know everything and didn't say anything.

Yes, I know. And I know something else:

You want me to go. - No, Elvira.

But I…don't want to. - Please, listen to me.

I know it is, Giacomo, I understand, else you would've married me.

We could've done it a long time ago.

If you wanted it like this, there's a reason.

But I won't leave you. Not for me, you see, I'd suffer less if I did but…

just for you.

You're making a mistake. One day you'll understand.

Don't you think I realize that now?

Then, if you do, why?

Forgive me, Elvira.

"Forgive", always "forgive…"

I swear to you, Elvira, I never thought of leaving you.

Never.

Goodbye to our sweet wakening.

Goodbye, life in a dream.

Goodbye, doubts and jealousies… - That one smile of yours could dispel.

Goodbye, suspicions…

Kisses… - Poignant bitterness…

That, like a poet, I made rhyme with caress.

To be alone in winter…

is death!

Alone…

But when the spring comes

the sun is our companion.

Always yours… all my life.

We'll part…

when the flowers bloom!

I wish that winter…

would last forever!

We'll part…

when the flowers bloom!

Close your eyes!

Now, you can open them.

Why are you smiling like that? What is it? - Nothing.

I was thinking of that one day you didn't want to take me to Lake Como.

This cost you more. - I hope you like it even more.

Yes, unfortunately. - Why "unfortunately"?

Never mind, it's nothing. Sometimes, I feel a strange wistfulness.

It's very beautiful. Why did you give it to me?

I don't know. I think…

I always think I do too little for all that you give me.

You think right. - I realize you're no longer happy with me.

It's quite the reverse:

You don't want me to be happy with you.

Or maybe it's me who can't be satisfied with so little.

What do you mean?

That I only want you for myself!

I don't know what to do with half a man, even if his name is Giacomo Puccini!

Anna? Anna!

Hurry!

Bring me the dress.

I'm sorry, Giacomo, but this had to be said at one time or another.

Yes, one time or another but not tonight.

The premiere of Bohème, our Bohème!

It's exactly tonight that you must realize who your true woman is forever:

Me, who sang Mimì to you tonight or the other one,

who hasn't even come to support you in case it's a failure?

You should know very well why she doesn't come.

Listen, however you try to justify it, it doesn't change things.

On one side, there's me, on the other that provincial,

whom you only take for a walk on Sundays in the suburbs.

No, believe me, there isn't much to think about.

I'm not thinking about it.

I just realized that Elvira never said such things about you.

That means she's not honest. - Or that she's generous.

Fine, let's grant that she is! You'll take it account when choosing.

Because tonight you must choose: Either me or her.

Yes, I understand, your conscience… You're afraid she will suffer.

But think how much more she would suffer, if you stayed with her.

Because you well know that you'd be spending you whole life desperately

searching for any Cristina who could understand and help you.

Ten minutes, Miss. - All right.

Think about it.

Mimì's here, she's coming and she's ill.

Where is she? - She couldn't find strength to climb all the stairs.

Ah! No! Oh, Mimì! Mimì!

We'll move the bed closer.

Here. Something to drink.

Rodolfo.

Rest now. Don't speak.

Oh, my Rodolfo!

You want me here with you?

Ah! My Mimì! Always, always!

I heard Mimì had fled from the Viscount

and was dying.

Where was she? I sought her…

Just now I saw her in the street stumbling along.

She said, "I can't last long. I know I'm dying…"

"But I want to die with him. Perhaps he's waiting for me."

I feel much better.

"…Please take me, Musetta?"

Let me look around.

How wonderful it is here.

I'll recover… I will…

I feel life here again… - Beloved lips!

What is there in the house? - Nothing.

You won't leave me ever... - You speak to me again.

No coffee? No wine? - Nothing. Poverty!

She'll be dead within half an hour!

I'm so cold.

If I had a muff!

Won't these hands of mine ever be warm?

Here. In mine.

Hello. Am I being indiscreet if I ask you where you're going?

To Elvira. - Ah, well, then…

One moment. What does "Well, then" mean?

When I saw you alone on the stage, I just thought that…

When it comes to Elvira, you always think too much.

And you too little.

What do you mean? Come on, answer me.

I won't answer, I'll ask: Why won't you marry her?

I'll tell you why: Because this is more comfortable.

Maybe even one day, you may feel like leaving her.

Leaving a wife is a bit more complicated.

I couldn't ask for anything better than for her to be alone, because then maybe…

Yet, I say you act badly.

Where I come from, this is called selfishness, cowardice.

Finally, I said it. I wanted to say that for a long time.

Now I can go back to the theater, because this goddamn world enrages me.

But I like the music you write.

Bye, dear. - Bye.

Giacomo!

When did you get here? - Just now.

Look: It looks like our attic.

The baby has a little cold.

He has a fever? - A little one.

He says it'll pass when you come home.

Did he say that? - Yes.

But look at you…

This is his gift for your party.

Have they gone?

I pretended to sleep

because I wanted to be alone with you.

I've so many things to tell you,

or just one thing, huge as the sea,

deep and infinite as the sea…

I love you, you're all my life.

I love you, you're all my life.

Ah! my beautiful Mimì!

Am I beautiful still?

Beautiful as the dawn.

You've mistaken the image:

you should have said, beautiful as the sunset.

"They call me Mimì..."

"They call me Mimì..."

"but I don't know why."

Excuse me, Elvira, I must go.

Will we see each other at the hotel? - Yes.

Mimì!

Mimì!

Giacomo, come!

No! Come! - No, you go!

Giacomo!

Goodbye, Giacomo. - Come, Cristina!

Maestro! - Dear countess!

Where are you off to? You haven't forgotten that tonight you belong to us?

Of course not. - You scared us.

I'll be right back. - I don't want him to escape. Come.

Elvira!

Elvira, come. Some friends want to meet you.

Come on.

Come.

There's the Maestro.

Bravo! Congratulations!

Maestro! Oh, Maestro, let's go.

Contessa, tonight I finally have the pleasure of introducing my wife to you.

Very happy to meet you.

She's very happy to accept your invitation, together with me. Right, darling?

Certainly, Countess. Thank you.

So, Miss, your evening dress?

I don't need it anymore.

And when we're really married, I'll never leave you. Not for a minute.

Don't you believe me?

I believe it, Giacomo. I do.

Mamma, let's hope this time, Daddy stays with us a little longer.

"Tosca has its first months of encores. Hope to come by Christmas."

I lived for art, I lived for love.

Never did I harm a living creature.

Whatever misfortunes I encountered,

I sought with secret hand to succor.

Ever in pure faith,

my prayers rose in the holy chapels.

Ever in pure faith,

I brought flowers to the altars.

In this hour of pain,

why, why, oh Lord,

why dost Thou repay me thus?

Jewels, I brought for the Madonna's mantle,

and songs for the stars in heaven that they shone forth with greater radiance.

In this hour of distress,

why, why, oh Lord,

why dost Thou repay me thus?

"Dear Giacomo,"

"Once, you remember, I said I would never leave you."

"I was sure that was my duty owed to you."

"And I felt that I could do it because not even disappointment…"

"…succeeded in weakening my courage."

"But now, many things have changed."

"Only you never change."

"I have no more strength left now to fight against you and myself…"

"…when I realized that even our marriage has been for you an act of egoism."

"You were born to be free."

"I too want to free you from this slavery…"

"…of sending me post cards and dolls."

"At your next return, which precedes another departure,"

"you won't find me here anymore."

"I have no remorse."

"Tonio is grown now. I put him to school at Ricci."

"He will be fine."

"I thank my bitterness, Giacomo,"

"which gives me this courage…"

"…and the illusion of being no longer in love with you."

"Goodbye."

Tonio! - Papa!

How are you?

You've become quite a man. Let me look at you.

How is school going? - Fine, Papa.

I wasted a lot of time in New York negotiating the rights to Butterfly.

They're not as fast as in Milan when it comes to certain things.

But now, luckily, I'm back. I brought you the watch I promised you.

Let's see if you like it.

Very much. - Tonio…

Where is mamma? - I don't know, Papa.

Tonio, Mama must come back to us.

We need her very much. You understand, right?

It's better that mama not come home, Papa.

Why?

Because…

all she did at home was cry.

The other day, however, when she came to greet me,

she seemed at peace at last.

Maybe…

it'd be better if you don't look for her anymore.

Goodbye, Papa.

I'm leaving Milan forever.

I'm returning to Torre del Lago.

I don't intend to write a single note anymore.

Besides, I wouldn't be able to, believe me. - And Butterfly?

Right. Butterfly.

We brought the finished libretto.

Butterfly's death is how you wanted it:

she blindfolds her child before killing herself.

I rewrote the whole romanza on the theme you gave me before leaving. Remember?

You've worked hard.

The things you made me feel are among the most beautiful you've written.

Ah, it's my car.

Now, I must really go.

I need to be alone. I'm not even leaving by train.

Besides, I don't want to see anyone.

Forgive me, Giulio, but I really must go.

You think I'll find her at Torre del Lago?

I wish you that. - Be careful, cars are dangerous.

Who are you? - Good day, Maestro.

It's Delia, a girl from around here. The doctor sent her.

With the car accident and a broken leg, someone has to help you.

The first thing to do is put in the thermometer.

The first thing to do is a good coffee! - Already done.

So, have you thought about it? You're not writing to Elvira?

No. I told you, I don't want her to come back out of pity, because I'm hurt.

Women always come back, even if you don't want them to.

I knew a guy who, in order not to have his wife return, he had to kill her.

I tell you Elvira won't return. - The thermometer, Maestro.

Fool! When one is eating, you don't take their temperature!

What are you doing?

What are you hiding?

Come on. Out with it.

Madame Butterfly. And where did you find it?

In the suitcase, the first day, while I was tidying up. I didn't think it was wrong.

I'm not saying you did wrong. Have you read it? All of it?

Yes, many times. It's such a true story. - Really?

What is it about?

Sit down.

Go on, tell me.

It's the story of a girl.

A girl in love with a great man.

She said to him,

"Ah, love me a little. Oh, just a very little."

"As you would love a baby, as suits me."

"Dear Giulio, I know you're worried about our Butterfly."

"I want to reassure you: a great enthusiasm for work has returned."

Who's that? Delia?

Is that you? - Yes, it's me.

Good.

Since you're here, tomorrow you should mail this letter.

Don't forget it, eh? Oh, Delia, it's 10:15.

How come you haven't gone home yet? Your father will be worried, won't he?

He emigrated to America.

When they built the lakeside road, the ferry became useless.

So you live alone? - Alone.

I'm so far away. 10 kms in the morning and 10 at night.

And then when it rains, water gets inside my house.

My girl, before this weather, why didn't you tell me sooner?

There are many free rooms here.

Does that mean I can stay? - Of course.

Thank you very much.

Mr Puccini.

Who is it?

I'm Delia's father. - But weren't you in America?

In America? I wish.

I'm 2 kms away on a piece of land. One has to make do.

Well…

Please, come in. And so, from a boatman to a farmer?

How are you doing?

I'm not complaining. Indeed, this year has gone well.

I'm glad.

Then you can have the roof repaired to prevent the rain from getting in, no?

The roof? You really like joking, Mr Puccini!

I came for Delia.

I wouldn't want her to bother you. She's so strange. - Sit.

I haven't seen her for 2 weeks. You know, we live in the country.

If Madame Elvira were at least here. There's no shortage of gossip.

All right. I'll send her back tonight. - Excuse me, Mr Puccini.

When Madame returns, just let her know.

My respects.

Papa! What did you tell him? Tell me what you said!

Delia!

I warn you if he sends me away, I'll set fire to your house!

Delia!

So, your father is in America, right?

The roof is leaking?

You're going home tonight, understand? - No! No! No!

Come on now, don't cry.

Don't you think I knew why you told me all those lies?

That's why I want you to go home, Delia.

Come on, look at me.

Do you know how old I am?

I've a son almost as big as you.

I know one suffers very much for things like this.

But there are many young men in town you can go dancing with on Sundays.

You'll see, it'll pass.

You must go. You understand, don't you?

It's for the best. - No, don't send me away! Don't!

Delia? Delia!

Delia!

When I come back tomorrow, I don't want to find you here anymore!

Understand?

So, what are you looking at?

You've never seen me before, have you? - Oh, no, but how you look…

I look like someone who wants to drink and have fun.

Move over.

Pour me a drink.

Bottoms up, eh? In a few days, there will be coot hunting.

Who's dealing cards? - It's his turn.

Hey! There's been an accident!

We're coming!

Hey! - We're coming!

We must look again, Fanelli!

Yes, the men will continue tonight.

Come, Giacomo, don't get so discouraged. I know, it was a great misfortune but…

Misfortune? What misfortune? You say it was a misfortune!

Not being able even to bury her.

Who has the nerve to applaud? - It's Manon!

It's Bohème!

No more! Lower the curtain!

Don't laugh anymore, understand? This is not a farce, you know?

They're demolishing Madame Butterfly forever and maybe me too!

But that's right, gentlemen.

It had to happen like this, because I deserve it.

Giacomo, the Milanese public is making a huge mistake tonight.

I own myself proud to have brought Butterfly to the stage.

You can write that in your papers. - Of course.

Maestro Puccini. - It's impossible to see him.

I must speak to Maestro Puccini. Tell him his friend Giocondo is here.

Someone must be near him at this time. - It's impossible.

Giacomo!

Let's go outside, come. - Giacomo…

Don't worry, Mr Puccini.

Remember that they also hissed at La Traviata by Giuseppe Verdi!

Don't be angry. The public is a traitor.

It happens in commerce too.

Just when you think they've become customers, you never see them again.

It's the same people, you know? You give them music and I give them oil.

It's midnight. Don't you want to go home? I'll take you.

They should be at the end of the romanza by now.

Let's go home. - No, let's go to La Scala.

You? You? You? You? You? You? You? Beloved idol!

Adored, adored being. Fairest flower of beauty.

Though you ne'er must know it,

`tis for you, my love,

for you I'm dying. Poor Butterfly!

That you may go away beyond the ocean.

Never to feel the torment when you are older,

that your mother forsook you!

My son, sent to me from Heaven,

straight from the throne of glory,

take one last and careful look

at your poor mother's face!

That it's memory may linger,

one last look!

Farewell, beloved!

Farewell, my dearest heart!

Go, play, play.

Let's go home, Giacomo. - Leave me alone.

Butterfly!

Butterfly!

Butterfly!

I almost fell asleep! - Did you ever hear such stuff?

A sentimental mess! Unlistenable! - It kept repeating itself!

The first act is unbearable! I've never heard the like at La Scala!

A bit of Manon, some Bohème and there you go.

Puccini is losing it! - What losing? Puccini's finished!

They're right, Giocondo.

I really am finished.

Come on, now you can take me home.

I'll give you some light. - Thank you.

Look… - Wait.

Elvira! Elvira!

I thought I could stay away from you.

I didn't succeed.

Tonight at La Scala…

…something new happened.

Your music…

it was a revelation for me, Giacomo.

It was beautiful but I finally understood why.

It was a new thing, above us.

It was you.

The best of you.

I've forgotten all past bitterness.

I was enchanted.

And I was proud. So proud of you!

Was it you who applauded? - Yes.

I love you, Giacomo

and I will never stop loving you.

I don't know why

but I feel we need each other.

And that divided, we are lost.

On the anniversary of the first performance of Madame Butterfly, by Giacomo Puccini,

which for 20 years has triumphed on all the stages of the world,

we've broadcasted some selected passages from the opera.

Friends, if I were alone, I would talk to the walls, the pictures,

of these years that have passed.

Please don't be surprised, I want to say "Thank you".

To whom, I don't know. To everybody.

To the music, which has always been very sweet to me,

to the orchestras, the public,

to the broken key of my piano, which always makes me so angry,

to my son Tonio, who came from afar just for the occasion.

To all those who have helped me.

To Ricordi.

Before he died, he said,

"Giacomo,"

"the story of the second act is weak in the finale."

And to all the dear, old, countless friends who are no longer here.

Thanks also to the new ones.

Because you're here to give all your energy to Turandot.

I want it to be the most beautiful. It must be the most beautiful.

I want to say thanks to you too, Elvira, for everything you've done for me.

And for what you will do.

Because, you see, I know…

if you hadn't been there,

now I would be looking back.

and I would be seeing nothing.

Absolutely nothing.

No, I'm not moved, I'm happy.

There would be no reason not to be, so we must drink.

20 years have passed since Butterfly

and we're still here to hear it.

Friends, I drink so that we can meet in another 20 years

to hear Turandot too.

Elvira! Elvira, where are you going?

I will be right back. I've something to say to Anna.

Yes, be quick.

Best wishes, friends! Best wishes, Tonio!

Best wishes! - Best wishes, Giacomo!

Mama, what is it? Did something happen while I was away?

Tonio… - Yes?

Your father… - Tell me.

…is sick. - Is it serious?

Yes, Tonio.

He doesn't know it. He mustn't know.

The doctor said that… - What?

…there is no hope.

None! - Mama!

He mustn't know.

Never.

And so?

How's the 3rd act going? - We had a little difficulty in the finale.

What are you saying?

We're moving along. - Yes, we found the prince's drama.

We took notes. Where did I put them?

We had a great idea. Tell him about it, Renato.

Yeah, we have…

I see. We're still where we were before.

Boys,

I didn't mean to say anything to you, but you must help me.

I need you to finish as soon as possible.

Because I don't have much time to lose.

I have a sickness here…

…which is unforgiving.

Good night.

Mama… - Hush.

Don't let him notice that we're here.

It's for the best. I'll wait for him to go to bed.

Listen, Mama, you can't go on like this. You must rest. - Oh, no…

Yes, you've been living like this for too many nights.

Come, get up. I'll take care of him tonight.

And don't worry, I'll make him go to bed.

You're a good boy, Antonio.

A good son. Brave.

Your father is proud of you.

Try to sleep, Mama.

Now that's enough, Papa. You must listen to the doctor.

Go to that clinic in Brussels and opt for that operation.

You know, Tonio? - Yes.

Does Mama know too? - No.

The doctor only told me, but if you refuse to go, I'll tell her.

I must finish Turandot. - It's almost finished, Papa.

Can't you see that you can't take it anymore?

Listen to me…

…I'm going with you.

But you must promise me…

We won't tell Mama. - No.

I don't want her to suffer again for me.

We'll tell her…

We'll tell her that we're going on a trip together.

All right, Papa.

Son of Heaven,

I ask to undergo the trial!

Stranger, intoxicated with death! So be it!

Let your destiny be fulfilled!

Turandot! - Death!

Turandot! - Death!

Turandot! - Death!

Liù! Liù! Get up!

It’s the bright hour for all awakening!

It’s the dawn, my Liù.

Open your eyes, my dove!

Get up, old man! She’s dead!

Ah! horrible crime! We will all pay for it!

The offended spirit will take revenge!

Scornful shade, forgive us!

Liù, goodness! Liù, sweetness!

Sleep! Forget!

Liù, poetic spirit!

Here the work ends with the death of the author.

Oh, Sun! Life! Eternity!

Love is the light of the world!

Our infinite happiness

laughs and sings in the Sun!

Glory to you!

Glory to you!

English subtitles by sineintegral@KG