Original subtitles

A film based on the novel by

THE SHOP ON THE HIGH STREET

Screenplay by

THE SHOP ON THE HIGH STREET

Directed by

Cinematography

Music

Production design

Production managers

Sound / Editor

Make-up / Set decoration / Costumes

Assistants

"Following the occupation of Czechoslovakia by Hitler's army

"and the declaration of a Slovak State,

"one of the first political acts of Tiso's regime

"was the voluntary acceptance of the Nuremberg Race Laws."

"The year is 1942..."

Tóno!

Tóno!

Tóno, are at you home?

Tóno!

Tóno? Where's that man gone?

Tóno!

Did you take the trough to Mrs Firičová?

Do you know how many ships the British have sunk?

What?

Or how many British ships have sunk?

And did she pay you?

Yes. I told her the trough I made wouldn't leak.

And the money?

Give it here.

- Is that all? - She threw in a couple of pigeons.

What kind of deal was that?!

You think I can pay the grocer with pigeons?

Put your tools away!

Have you fallen asleep? Are you listening to me?

Tóno, what are you gawking at over there?

I'm putting my tools away.

You should see that building on the square. It's so tall!

And all the people around it.

Even little Tibko is working on the site.

I saw old Franko there. I even saw Dzurilla, and Kamenický.

- You don't understand anything. - Me?

I said they'd build it without you. And I was right!

Like hell they will. I want to know where they're going get the money for it.

- Where? Go and have a look, then! - I'll go when I can be bothered.

Yes, that's right.

It'd be beneath you to go see your own brother-in-law.

Whilst Markus and the other men are fighting, you could at least help here.

- And make some money. - To hell with Markus.

Would it hurt to greet them? Would your tongue fall out?

I'm not a parrot.

Would your arm would drop off if you saluted them?

- At your service, madam! - Everyone else is smarter than you.

- Shut... - What?

Shut the workshop.

It's like talking to a brick wall.

- Come on, Esenc! - Where are you going now, Tóno?

Dressing myself to look smart, for my beloved sweetheart

Beloved... To hell with her.

Do this, do that! And I have to do as she pleases.

Esenc! Watch out. They might drop one on you.

Esenc!

Long live our glorious leader!

Our little Führer does very nicely for himself.

Gloria in Excelsius Deo...

Amen.

- Good afternoon, Mr Blumenfeld. - Good afternoon.

Esenc, where is your master?

Hey, Tóno! Are you cross with me?

- I'm in a hurry. - And I know why.

Come and have a chat. That wooden monstrosity isn't going anywhere.

Understand? It's a filthy business.

Take my advice. Stay out of it! This is political scheming.

Gejza, I left my money at home.

Esenc, ask nicely!

Here.

Slowly.

A little to the right.

Keep pulling forward.

That's enough, you can let go.

Welcome, Brtko.

Did you come to earn some money?

Mind your own business.

Have you come to inspect the work, Tóno?

Sort of. Good afternoon, Mr Kuchár.

How do you like our tower of Babel?

Fine work. I've never seen anything like it.

Tomorrow we shall reach the stars!

- Don't make such jokes. - No, I don't want to risk my pension.

There's nothing new. There've been pyramids and pharaohs.

- What's that? - Pharaohs.

And they are only ashes now.

These are serious things.

Serious indeed. All this timber, 50 m3 at 1,500 each.

Yes, but at least people are earning good wages.

And you don't? You're a skilled carpenter.

But it's complicated at home...

Remember the gate I made for you? Could have done with timber like this.

Ah, His Excellency is coming!

- Aren't you waiting for him? - I'd better be off.

Why are you running away? Afraid of your own brother-in-law?

- He can go to hell! - Well, he may go soon...

Our little Führer's gotten fat!

It's all that fancy food and wine they get.

He has the face of a bishop. The local god.

To me he's the same, a good-for-nothing scrounger. Mr Commander!

If my brother-in-law was a commander, I'd have a better life.

Go on, give him a smile!

- What's up? - Laudetur.

Esenc!

Esenc!

Come on, Esenc.

What have I done to deserve such a husband?

Get out, you beast! You're as bad as your master.

Get out!

Here we are. God bless, good evening.

Have you lost your tongues?

Ruźika!

Here, this will make you better!

Dear Mother of God!

Look what he's done now.

He's worse than a child.

- Baby's having a paddle! - The things you say, Markus.

Forgive us for all this mess.

Don't just stand there. Get another cloth, quickly!

No, we'll do it. I always tell him to wash his feet outside.

Finish up.

Ruźika, my dear.

I'm afraid we're being a nuisance.

Of course not! I've always said to Tóno,

blood is thicker than water.

Now girls, stop fussing.

Instead, look at what I have here.

You've never seen this much food. Just like in the shop window.

It's nothing, Evelina.

Markus came home from the office and said,

"Get dressed quickly. We're going to visit someone."

"Who?" I asked. "Your sister", he said.

We couldn't put it off any longer.

Damn it! We've left the caviar at home.

Rum! Quick, Tóno, get the glasses out of the cupboard.

Damn it. This shouldn't have happened.

Let me see your hat. Is it from Rosenzweig's?

- It's beautiful! - Look! There's a fire!

- Water, quickly! - Stop fussing and get some water!

Quickly, or your house will burn down!

Bravo, Tóno! You'd make a fine fireman!

Now my dears, we've lived to see good times.

We have plenty of everything. Food, drink and our freedom too.

We shall live in peace as befits an honourable and decent family.

Very well said, Markus.

Here's to the ladies!

Tóno, shall we have another?

Go on, you pour!

They say two glasses sing together.

Three, and they embrace.

And five start a quarrel.

Let bygones be bygones.

We'll drown them in spirits.

And life'll be better than ever before. Cheers!

Cheers, cheers, cheers!

Tóno, do we have to beg you?

Why aren't you drinking, Tóno? Drink, for the love of God!

I'm all right. I even feel like drinking.

What was that about the glasses?

- I don't remember. - Three glasses do what?

They sing...

Let's drink the way our fathers did before us.

They were poor. But we will be richer!

I blow my whistle, And dad squeezes mum

I blow my whistle,

I'll squeeze you too when we are wed...

Ružika, dear, how can we repay you?

Sit down and stop showing off.

- Listen, I'll tell you something. - Be quiet!

Don't stop him. He's so kind, go on, Tóno.

It's a free country, Tóno. Don't hold back. Go ahead and speak.

- I won't if you order me to. - Stop it, Tóno.

Say what you've got to say. You have my permission.

I don't need your permission!

You've showered us with many gifts. There's no denying it.

But just tell me one damn thing...

Who'll pay for my inheritance?

Here it comes. Go on, talk.

Who will compensate for my part of the garden?

Shut up! Who took our land, our money? Who bribed the lawyer?

Who tampered with the will? Tell me, since you're so clever!

And when I asked you for a job on that tower of yours...

What did you say?

You threw me out like a dog! Like a dog!

I've had enough already!

Now you listen to me, you little vermin!

Do you know where I could have been if you'd joined the Guard?

Because of you they're calling me a hypocrite.

They say I'm your 'alibi'. 'Ali Baba' more like!

I don't give a damn about your inheritance.

Things are different these days. Poor martyred carpenter!

I'll show you what kind of brother-in-law I am.

Look, take this.

Now you'll know who I am, you coward.

Read it out loud. Let everyone hear!

Go on.

According to paragraph 1, section 31, sub-section 40,

I place under sequestration

the shop belonging to the Jew Lautmann's widow

At Hlinka Square,

and appoint as Aryan controller...

-...Antonio Brtko. - You see?

I've appointed you and the shop's yours forever!

Heil!

Heil!

You're going to be rich now. You can throw your tools away.

I knew it!

Ruźika, dear, I knew it!

Tóno!

My dear brother-in-law!

My girl has a shop

A shop on the square

She sells potatoes...

No! Not potatoes! We'll sell better goods!

Why are you looking so glum? Let's drink, Tóno!

Give me a kiss, sweetheart.

I have a good-looking girl

I have a good-looking girl

Wait, Tóno. Have one of these.

Help yourself. Do you like it?

Then take it. Here!

I don't like owing anyone anything.

Show it to me.

It opens like this.

Let him do it.

He'll have to learn to be a gentleman. Here you are!

- Is there any salad left? - There's always some for you.

- Just don't lose it. - I'll make a gentleman out of him yet.

We must all pull together, or the boat will sink!

That's a fact.

Have you ever heard of a cock that didn't crow at dawn?

- No. - That goes for us too, my friend!

Cockadoodledoo!

Not like that, you idiot. Are you drunk?

You've woken every cock on the farm!

Now remember this.

We're one family, understand?

If we don't get rich now, we never will. It's our duty to God and the Führer!

It's our duty to the Republic.

Damn him and his Führer, it actually shines!

- What? - It shines.

So it should - it's 22 carat.

It shines like a torch!

Scorch that torch, on a porch.

Scorch that torch, on a porch.

That's pretty funny, right?

Scorch that torch, on a porch.

Four!

- Five! - Hope you can keep up with me.

You'll see.

- Six! - No, seven!

No, this is six!

Seven. He's really going to drink it all.

Eight!

Nine!

And the last!

Ten!

- Bravo! - He's a real man!

- I never thought you'd do it. - You're calling the tune...

Give us a dance!

Come on, Tóno, let's have a story!

Come on, make us laugh!

Silence!

- Your Führer is speaking. - Silence.

- Silence. - Bravo!

Sieg Heil...

I told you he couldn't take it. He'll be ill.

Tóno!

He's had it.

Sieg Heil!

Wake up, Tóno. Wake up, darling.

It's late, dear.

I dreamt of a white butterfly.

It was completely white.

A white butterfly, a white flag... love thy neighbour.

I've put out your white handkerchief and I've ironed your Sunday shirt.

Get up, Tóno, it's morning already! You'll be late getting to the shop.

Look, I've polished your shoes.

What a lovely day!

The letter's in your pocket. Now don't lose it.

I want you to look clean, Tóno.

God bless, good morning.

Good morning.

- The guests stayed until late... - Late, indeed.

- You can't have slept much. - Go to hell.

The same to you.

Don't trust anyone. And put out a sign:

'No cash, no service.' No more free drinks!

And don't you forget that!

Come on, Esenc, go home.

And just like that, I'm rich.

Beliansky is also rich. Vincenc.

Funny, it doesn't seem as tall as it did yesterday.

H. LAUTMANN - WIDOW HABERDASHERS

Good morning.

Good morning.

What would you like, young man?

- Safety pins? - What? No.

So what then?

We have everything you could want.

This one? Here you are.

No, thank you.

You're too young for these aches and pains.

It's rheumatism. I can't even sleep from the pain.

My hands are ice cold. Pins and needles.

Like ants are crawling all over them.

The doctor says it's gout.

But I tell him it's just old age!

Did you know Mr Sekerák?

Not the ice cream man, his brother.

His hands were twisted up like this, with gout!

A complete cripple.

Poor thing.

What was her name?

Her name? I am talking about Mr Sekerák, the horse cart driver.

He never had a penny.

He lived on soup.

But on Sundays and holidays he'd have potato flatbreads.

There's nothing better than fresh carp on the Sabbath.

- I've never had it. - It's a simple recipe.

All you need is: parsley, onions, carrots...

Mrs Lautmann, I haven't come for a recipe.

I... For heaven's sake, where did I put it?

Here. Read this. I thought I'd lost it.

Forgive me, young man. I can't see very well anymore.

Can't you?

I've been appointed Aryan controller of your shop.

Excuse me?

Your shop.

Oh, buttons! We have plenty of those!

Large or small? For shirts or for coats?

Bone or wood? Pick out what you want.

Mrs Lautmann, let me explain.

You're Jewish, aren't you? Well, I'm an Aryan.

Jewish shops are finished.

That's the law. There are only Aryan shops now.

It's called "Aryanisation". Understand?

No, I don't.

You don't.

Here it is in black and white.

I'm your Aryan and you are my Jewess. Understand?

You've got a sense of humour, young man! Are you a bailiff?

No, I'm your Aryan controller.

I thought so. What a nice man!

Do forgive me, young man. My hearing is really bad.

- I didn't catch your name. - Tóno Brtko.

- Krtko? - No, Brtko. B... B...

Krtko. What an interesting name.

Just a minute.

My poor husband used to say,

"Rozália, starve if you must, but always pay your taxes!"

The older papers are in the larder.

That's the pride of a tradesman.

Am I right or not, Mr Krtko?

This is from the Waldes factory.

And this is... wait...

Am I right or not?

Yes, you are right.

- God bless, good morning! - Imro.

What are you doing here, Brtko? Buying buttons for Evelyn?

I've been waiting for you all morning.

I've brought you fish for the Sabbath like you've never had before.

You have enough to share with Brtko.

Mr Krtko's been here a while. I thought he came for my taxes.

Brtko? The bailiff?

I can see why she thought so, seeing as you're so well dressed.

- I'll come back later. - Wait a moment!

Everything's all right, Rozàlia. You don't have to worry.

- Could you make us a cup of tea? - Cup of tea?

Just like always.

We'll be right there.

- Well! - Well, what?

Just, well!

- It wasn't my idea. - But you're here all the same.

If I'd turned it down they'd have given it to someone else.

Fool!

Don't be rude, I'm no fool. It's official, I have the decree.

I'd call you a swine if I hadn't known you for so long.

You're just a poor fool who's been swindled by them.

- Who's swindled me? - Your own brother-in-law.

Why would he do that?

Look. Watch closely.

The good Jewish shops were shared out long ago.

They've just given you a bone to chew on!

Do you think she makes a living out of buttons?

She lives on the charity of the other Jews.

Take a look.

Take a good look.

I see... I get it now, Mr Kuchár.

- Wait! Where are you going? - Home. I don't care for any of this.

In fact, I'm quite pleased.

I'll go to the town hall to tell them what they can do with this!

And what do you plan on telling them?

That your brother-in-law has swindled you?

That this isn't a gold mine but a dilapidated hole?

- They'll throw you out! - No one's going to make fun of me.

Look, Tóno.

I'd prefer if you took over the shop.

Let's make an agreement.

Mrs Lautmann hasn't starved so far and you'll get your cut.

- What do I have to do? - Nothing.

You, nothing.

Things could go either way.

You can never tell how things will turn out.

That could have been my photo.

Mr Lautmann could still be standing here today.

We were in the trenches together. Bullets whistling past...

Somebody had to stick their head out. He did, and I'm here.

He got a bullet in his head.

My mother used to buy buttons here.

Ah, the tea is ready. Thank you.

Nobody makes tea like you, Rozália.

- It's jasmine tea. - Sit down, Tóno.

Sit down and make yourself at home.

Rozália, do you know who this man is?

I've often spoken of him. It's Lily's cousin, do you remember?

He's come to help you with the store.

For a month or two, Maybe even longer.

- Lily's cousin, remember? - That's him?

But Mr Kuchár, I'm an Aryan controller not a shop assistant!

I know what I'm doing. She knows nothing about Aryanisation.

She probably doesn't even know there's a war on.

- What's the young man saying? - What are you saying, Mr Kuchár?

He says he'll come from tomorrow to help you if you need him.

May God bless you for that, Imro.

One's never as alone as one fears.

What's the young man's name?

He's not a young man. He's called Tóno.

You'll be like a son to me, Tóno.

I forgot to get the vinegar for your fish.

You see, anything is possible.

Do you know the German expression "Feed the wolf and keep the sheep"?

Ondrej took over Weinstein's sawmill, but he's no worse off.

We'll go to Weinstein and say,

"We need to raise your taxes to save Mrs Lautmann."

- And if he refuses? - Then I'll go to Hartmann.

There's Rott and Lowy as well. They all contribute.

- Do you know Katz? - The barber?

Catch.

It's too small.

Never mind.

- So, what were we talking about? - The barber.

Katz the barber is the treasurer.

- He'll pay your wages. - My wages?

Listen to me. You are Mrs Lautmann's Aryan.

Thus, you become employed full-time by the Jewish community.

Do you understand? With a fixed monthly salary.

- It's impossible. - But why not?

You can expect to earn six or seven hundred a month.

You won't make that as a carpenter.

You remember, Mr Kuchàr, when I was working at the mill

and how that guy's arm got caught in a machine?

- Being a controller isn't easy. - What did she say?

The old woman told me, "I don't care who the shop's Aryan controller is."

So she likes me being her Aryan controller.

I said to her, "Don't be afraid, Mrs Lautmann. I'm not going to eat you!"

She said, "I dreamt about you, Mr Brtko.

"You're a fine Aryan."

She dreamt about me, the old woman.

She can help me a bit at first.

Don't let her cheat you.

Don't worry, I told her,

"Watch out now! No nonsense, or else."

What about the keys? Has she already given them to you?

- She's giving them to me tomorrow. - What?

- She's not going to swallow them! - You left the keys with her?

I can't rush it. She'll get scared.

Wait, Tóno.

- Look what I bought you. - What is it?

You can use it to make a list of everything in the shop.

Remember, you'll find the real treasure under the floorboards.

- Good morning. - Good morning, sir.

- I'm sorry. - It's all right.

Good morning. I'll be right there.

- Good morning. - Good morning.

Mrs Lautmann!

Bang harder! She's as deaf as a post.

You should clean her ears out.

- Good morning, Mrs Andorič. - Good morning.

- Mrs Lautmann... - Krtko, what are you doing here?

- Brtko, Tóno. - How nice of you to come!

We have to open the shop.

Have you had breakfast? I slept in a bit.

Today is the Sabbath. There's plenty of time, I thought to myself.

People are wondering why we haven't opened up yet.

It's almost eight o'clock.

Don't tell me you've already had breakfast?

- I have. - Sit down.

Things don't work this way. We have to open up.

The key, the keyhole, the shutters...

So let's sell some buttons.

No, my son. It's the Sabbath.

I never open on the Sabbath.

Sabbath or no Sabbath, business is business!

- No, just sit down. - Sit, sit. No, I won't sit.

- Wait. - Where are you going?

No, you're going the wrong way.

The toilet is in the yard. Here's the key.

Tóno! Krtko!

I'll be right back.

- Have you seen Kuchàr? - He's over there.

- Mr Kuchár! - What happened, Tóno?

The old woman's gone crazy! No one mentioned the Sabbath.

- What about it? - She won't open the shop.

The Sabbath... Sit down, Tóno.

Don't worry, we'll set things right.

God bless.

CLOSED FOR STOCKTAKING

This is my Pirika and Klarika.

They're in America.

In 1921, my brother Josi came for a visit from America.

They call him Joe now.

He's a rich man. He has a soda factory there.

He said to me, "Heinrich didn't come back from the war.

"You've got too much on your hands."

Pirika was sixteen then and Klarika... Look.

They're pretty.

This chair needs fixing. It needs a carpenter.

It's not just the chair. Everything's falling to pieces.

Pirika's gone, Klarika's gone,

Heinrich's with God,

Joe doesn't write...

Fine furniture, but a little old-fashioned.

It all needs freshening up.

Strip it down, repaint,

and brighten it right up.

Then it'll be just as good as new.

Why am I keeping the suits? What use are they to me?

You know what? I'll bring my tools on Monday

and I'll get to work. We'll get things shipshape again.

This bed'll be like new.

My dear Mrs Lautmann.

What are you up to?!

Don't worry, it's my dog.

Take him out.

Don't worry, he doesn't bite.

Ah I see. He belongs to you!

He comes running in the minute I open the door.

Mrs Lautmann! I'll tell you something.

He'll give you his paw.

They have white beans. They're in season now.

I'll go to the market on Monday, I can get you some.

I've made a list of what I need.

Is that all?

- I'll come back to light the fire. - Thank you.

You have to leave, I'm afraid.

And stay there. You are not to come in.

He's gone, if you're afraid of him.

She's kind. She helps me every Sabbath.

A good soul.

Heinrich hardly had a chance to wear it.

The best English fabric.

Try it on!

Jesus, Mrs Lautmann.

- What good is it to me? - I think it'll fit me.

Mr Lautmann must have been the same build, wasn't he?

The hat is the Hückel brand. Elegant and practical.

For the Sabbath - or any other day.

It really suits you.

Like it has been made for you.

Here you are. Look in the mirror.

I look like Charlie Chaplin.

Good morning.

Who's that?

- Let me kiss your hand, ladies. - Marián. This is my sister.

- This is my brother-in-law. - Nice to meet you.

You were a seamster, weren't you? Come and help us choose.

We'll catch up with you.

- Don't be long. - And you stay out of the pub.

Good morning.

- My respectful greetings, sir. - And to you, too.

Listen, you. Where did you get that hat?

She gave me... No...

I bought it from Kuchár.

The poor chap is broke and has to sell all his things.

It cost me next to nothing. It's a fine hat, isn't it?

I'll have him arrested.

Him and all the Jew-lovers!

- A Jew-lover? - A dirty Jew-lover, your Mr Kuchár.

We know all about him. We're keeping an eye on him.

I'm warning you, stay away from him!

A Jew-lover is worse than a regular Jew.

He isn't one of them, but he's on their side.

Interesting.

Interesting? You bloody fool. Dangerous! Remember that.

They're dangerous, remember that!

What's that?

Listen to me. And get that Jewish name off your shop!

To whom it may concern!

All dog owners - of terriers, sheep dogs, St Bernards,

must pay a tax within ten days.

Those who disobey this order shall be severely punished.

You must pay for any dog without delay...

- How much is this? - 30 hellers.

That's too expensive. Prices are going up every day.

- Wait a moment. - I'm in a hurry.

But I was here first.

A princess said to the shepherd

Leave the sheep out there in the field

It's my heart that needs to be healed...

- What is the glue made from? - From horses' hooves.

- From horses' hooves? - That's right.

And what's that you're putting on?

That's shellac, son.

Leave me alone.

What is the shellac made from?

- Insect droppings. - Erźika!

- I don't believe you. - Honestly!

- Where's Mummy? - Good morning.

In town.

- Good morning. - Good morning to you, sir.

Are you coming from work or going?

Is that old stuff worth the trouble?

It's my trade. Anyway, selling buttons isn't a job for a man.

Tóno!

Did someone call me?

- I have to go. - Your cigarette!

You can finish it.

- What's it for? - Bedsheets.

We have everything, ladies.

Seven, eight, nine, ten, twelve...

- Twelve exactly. - How much are these?

Just a moment. How much?

- 10 hellers each. - I'll take eight.

- Got any buttons like these? - Of course.

Thousands of them.

Your whole family will be bejewelled.

- Do we have one like these? - What?

- Do we? - Yes, we do.

- And where are they? - Go away.

- Yes, please? - What about cross-stitch patterns?

Of course. "Early to bed, early to rise..."

We have them.

"The early bird catches the worm."

Do we have cross-stitch patterns?

Just a moment. The cross-stitch patterns!

- Yes, we do. - And where?

Up there.

Just a minute. You'll stitch forever with these.

Tóno, not there, further down.

Do you have them or not?

I said down.

Evelina, come another time, I'm busy.

Never mind.

At the bottom!

What are you standing there for, Mrs Lautmann?

Serve the customers!

Come another time, Evelina.

It's like a circus in here.

You clumsy fool!

Breaking the buttons, Scaring all my customers away...

Run after that woman!

What have I done to deserve this?!

Tóno!

Tóno.

Tóno.

I've made you some cauliflower soup.

Nice, fresh cauliflower, yummy.

Here!

For the good work, so you have some pocket money.

The woman who wanted the patterns...

If she'd wanted a Persian rug, we'd have sold her elastic for pants!

The soup is wonderful.

What did you put in it? Vinegar... You can't hear me anyway.

- Do you have more work to do? - Yes, I do, Danko.

- Would you like to help me? - Yes.

Then sit down, Mr assistant.

Then we'll start on the wardrobe.

And then the hutch and the shelves.

Do you know how much work we have ahead?

A shop like this must look good. When customers...

There sits a girl by the fire

Tumbah, tumbah, tumbah la

There she sits, embroidering a dress...

This was my Heinrich's favourite song.

But the soup, Mrs Lautmann, is really first class.

Can you hear it? Come here.

It's loud enough.

Heinrich always said, "Rozália, your noodles..."

- Would you like some more? - No. Or maybe yes.

"Your noodles are like manna from heaven."

"Nonsense, Heinrich", I'd say. "That's hunger talking."

Is shellac really made from insect droppings?

What else would it be made from?

You're hungry. That's why you like it.

There sits a girl by the fire

Tumbah, tumbah, tumbah la

There she sits, embroidering a dress

- Janko, is it ready? - Wait! Just a minute.

I'm the town crier! Imbeciles!

It's ungodly! Playing about with talking machines!

Taking bread from a poor man's mouth!

But they can never replace me.

You can't shout like this thing can!

The Cavalry, the Cavalry, puts colour in your cheeks

A rosy face, a strong heart...

Stupid clowns! What a circus!

First a Babylonian monstrosity and now this! Can you hear it?

They've put up these squawking tin mouths.

Wonder how good it'll be when the wires are buried in snow!

And where is your Aryan controller, Mr Katz?

I'll give you three guesses.

So, will it be a massage or shall we wash your hair?

A massage.

It'll be a long wait, Piti.

I'll wait. I've plenty of time.

Good morning!

- Here I am. - Come in, Mr Brtko.

There's a long wait.

Isn't today Wednesday, Mr Kuchár?

Yes, it is. All day today...

Sit down, Mr Brtko. Piti just wants a moustache trim.

Talking about Wednesdays...

Remember old Kohn?

He used to come every Wednesday with lilies in his hand.

Do you remember him, Imro?

As soon as the lilies bloomed, in trotted old Kohn.

If he wanted his head shaved I knew the lilies were in bloom.

Then he developed a nervous tic.

What's so funny?

You try and shave someone with a tic.

Piti, old fellow, could you come back tomorrow?

Tomorrow? Why? I was here before Brtko.

True. But he had an appointment. Didn't you?

Oh, he had an appointment. Did he now?

I know what you're up to. I know everything.

It isn't always good to know everything.

Sometimes the less you know, the better.

You just want to get rid of me.

Piti, please...

Piti's furious about the loudspeakers.

Don't you think I know about your tricks? I know everything.

I know all about you.

I'll turn you in, the lot of you!

And I'll get paid for it!

We're in trouble already.

Don't worry, gentlemen!

What's in it for me if I report you?

Goodbye, gentlemen.

Damn you all.

He might make trouble for us.

He won't do any harm.

And you, Brtko, you're a stupid fool.

If I can't even trust my neighbours...

Mr Blau, the treasurer will discuss the rest with you.

Mr Blau!

I believe we've already met.

This is Blau, the printer.

Blau, secretary of the funeral parlour.

I'd like to assure you of our goodwill, Mr Brtko.

We want to do our best for you. We understand your difficult position.

Mr Brtko understands our financial difficulties.

We've voted on paying you a small sum.

It's actually a regular income.

We must trust each other. That is God's will.

The Lord has chosen you... to protect old Mrs Lautmann.

Do her no harm, please.

Why would he harm her?

Just like I said in the meeting,

our beloved sister has found

the best Aryan controller in the world.

He is a blessing in her old age

and shall be her saviour, come what may.

But no one does anything for free.

God has not yet created a controller who is happy with just a title.

Our hearts are too heavy for such levity.

With God's blessing.

One, two, three, four, five.

Tóno, how did you do it?

- What? - What?

Nothing.

On market day you made nothing and now all this!

It's the Lord's will and doing. But it won't be like this every day.

Sometimes you have the goods but no customers.

Or you get customers and have no goods.

It's just like Christmas.

You shouldn't have spent so much.

And I'm the worst controller of all?

- Wait! Close your eyes! - Why?

Don't ask. You'll see.

What a lovely scent! Just like Ruźika's!

- Just look at it. - Give it to me!

Stop, you're wasting it all!

I'll buy you a gallon of it! I don't care how much it costs.

And you've only had the shop a few days!

Just imagine yourself in one year's time.

Two years, three. Ten years. We could buy a house, fields.

No, I'll get a fur coat. And so will you.

Think how much old Mrs Lautmann must have stashed away.

All that gold and jewellery. What use is it to her?

It should be just right. What's wrong? Aren't you happy?

It's not that.

I just have to do something.

Esenc.

I've just made up the big bed, Tóno!

Tóno!

- Tóno. - I'm coming.

Stop!

And pull!

Down! More!

That's enough! Stop!

- Good morning, neighbour. - Good morning. Back from work?

Come here for a moment.

Why are you so serious? What's wrong?

Something's up. Something is going to happen.

Really? Like what?

I just drove in a whole train of cattle wagons.

The station is swarming with guards.

They're going to take the Jews.

- Maybe it's just a rumour. - I don't know. But I don't like this.

- Everybody's talking about it. - Danko!

Danko!

Hello, sir. Have you seen my Danko?

No, I haven't. I've just come home from work.

He was here a moment ago.

He's always running off.

Mr Brtko, would you be so kind

as to tell him the key is under the mat.

Sure, I will.

You'd better warn Mrs Lautmann.

Mrs Lautmann?

Mrs Lautmann!

Where's that old woman gone?

- Haven't you seen her? - She never goes out.

- Lovely goose, how much is it? - 80 crowns.

- 80?! That's a lot! - What are you doing outside?

- Buying a goose. - I'd have got it for you.

- What do you think of it? - It's a nice one.

It's for the Sabbath and the rest of the week.

Legs and wings for a soup, I'll roast the rest.

Kuchàr and Krtko are going to enjoy it.

Mrs Lautmann!

Tóno.

Did you leave the shop open? We might get robbed.

I've been looking for you. Why did you leave without telling me?

- Andorič wanted to talk to you. - They'll steal our goods.

Listen to me, Mrs Lautmann. This is serious!

- Andorič just told me that... - Get back to the shop!

I'll be right back.

A lot of use he is!

That'll teach him to meddle in politics.

- You don't understand. - Poor Imro.

- People talk too much. - Apparently they met in the cemetery.

Nonsense. Next you'll be saying they were dancing the Csárdás there.

Don't say that or you'll burn yourself.

They won't catch him. He's sure to have got away this time.

He was Brtko's friend, ask him!

Me? He was just as much your friend as he was mine!

- Don't let anyone in here. - Yes, sir.

Get moving!

This isn't a circus!

- Have you seen Kuchàr? - Come here, listen to this.

Shut the door.

He brought me a written order from the commander's office.

"Which commander?" I asked. There are so many everywhere.

Tomorrow the band is to parade in full dress.

"And why is that?" I asked.

"To play to the Jews to cheer them up as they leave."

He wants my band to do that! The bastard.

Over my dead body, I swear to God!

It seems anything is possible nowadays.

You don't believe me?

Read this.

Pay attention. It's from your dear brother-in-law.

I've been cutting hair here for forty years.

Four long decades.

Enough hair to fill a barn.

Now they've branded me like cattle. Taken away my rights.

Taken my property.

All according to the law.

And at the end, this.

Piti complained he'd lost his job. So he was given another:

delivering summonses to the Jews.

I didn't give him a tip for bringing mine.

I don't understand.

You're a wise man. How has this all happened so suddenly?

I'm not wise and this is not sudden.

I don't understand anything anymore.

But I know one thing.

When the law persecutes the innocent, that's the end of it.

And those who make the law, too.

Are you really going, Mr Katz?

Do you think I'm packing for a picnic?

Haven't you seen the guards everywhere in the streets?

Do you want me to join forces with old Blau

and Grannie Lautmann against the troops?

Will you join us, Mr Brtko?

I must be going.

I only wanted to ask about the arrangements for next Wednesday.

Alas, this means the end of our pleasant relationship.

But who knows. They said we'll be home by the autumn.

- So goodbye, Mr Katz. - Goodbye, Mr Brtko.

May God fill your shop with customers

to make up for your losses.

Mind your head, Mr Brtko!

Didn't I say this would happen?

We are Slovakians born and bred

Tonight we will make our own bed

Fight to the death, like you did before

Until a Slovakian stands in front of the state's main door

Left, one two.

Fight to the death, like you did before

Until a Slovakian stands in front of the state's main door

If only my assistant knew

what a dinner I'm preparing for the Sabbath!

- What is it? - Mrs Lautmann.

Have you gone completely insane?

Rummaging through official letters. What if someone saw us?!

Mrs Lautmann?

Nothing. Perhaps they've forgotten her. Should I ask them?

- Idiot. - Are you going to hide her?

- How would I do that? - Hide her in a jar of pickles?

If she gets a summons, will you give it to me?

You mustn't tell her anything.

- Down you go! - Don't talk to him!

- Come on, you swine! - Push him down!

I'M A JEW-LOVER

Take him away!

Oh Lord, in Thy mercy

preserve my children

and all who are dear to me

by Thy grace.

You said you'd find out where she's hidden her gold.

You haven't checked the walls, or under the floors.

What do you do there all day?

Why else would you take your tools to the shop?

It'll all go to the grave with her.

I warned you. You should have made her talk.

What are we going to do? You're useless.

Tóno! Have you gone mad?

Why are you hitting me?

You? Me? You pig! You brute!

Stop it! I won't say any more!

Tóno...

Tóno, darling!

My Tóno.

I'm on guard tonight, my darling

My darling girl wrote a letter to me

Crying together we should be

But tonight I am on guard my dear

The war isn't easy and it brings fear...

War isn't any fun...

One person can easily disappear.

There must be somewhere we can hide her. A barn or a cellar...

- Ludo. - Two more?

Wait, bring the whole bottle.

But we have to do it tonight.

Do as you like. It's not my business.

I'm warning you all! We'll exterminate the lot!

Jews, Bolsheviks and Freemasons.

The Commandant said no one gets special treatment.

We've caught that Kuchàr already. We'll put him in a cage.

Then we'll shoot him like a dog. Or we'll hang him.

- Or both! - Bravo!

Band, everyone, attention...

Attention! Come with me!

You'll see something. Now, my favourite song!

Hello! Mr Brtko.

Why are you here all alone?

No one escapes me! Not even Kuchár.

Come with me. You'll see something you've never seen.

Today is my big day!

Those who are not with us are against us!

- We'd better go. - Please.

Come on. It'll be better if we go, too.

Attention! One, two, three!

LIFE FOR GOD LIBERTY FOR THE NATION

I told you!

Quiet! Or you'll end up in jail!

Quiet, you drunks! Look at this.

The Tower of Victory! It's glorious and it's ours.

It's as lovely as a statue of the Virgin herself!

Do as you like with her. I wouldn't want be in your shoes.

Victory is ours!

We'll eradicate our enemies! Chase the Jews out of town! Vermin.

The white banner will fly as a sign of our victory!

The flag proclaims our victory in the day. At night, the monument will shine.

We are Slovakians born and bred

Tonight we will make our own bed

Fight to the death, like you did before

Until a Slovakian stands in front of the state's main door

- Mrs Lautmann. - Who's that?

I have bad news, Mrs Lautmann. They want to take you away!

- You've been drinking. - Yes, I have.

You must hide. Do you hear me? Do you understand?

You must hide, before it's too late!

I understand. I'll hide you.

Wait in the shop.

Turn off the light!

For God's sake! What are you doing?

Is that for me? I don't need it.

It's all right.

These things happen to the young and old alike.

Things like this happen in life. Even the happiest families quarrel...

You don't understand. I haven't been thrown out. It's you.

Did I ask you to explain? You don't have to tell me.

A hard bed tonight. But it's just for one night.

You'll be back with your wife tomorrow.

- They want to take you away! - Sleep, my son.

Tomorrow is another day. Everything will be OK.

Goodnight!

Now what!

It's so peaceful in here.

You haven't brushed your hat.

Never mind the hat.

It's so quiet here. Don't you think so?

You're dreaming. It was all just a bad dream.

Perhaps you're right. It was a bad dream.

A peaceful heart is a gift from God.

You speak like a prophet.

I've always respected you, Mrs Rozália.

Tóno, we won't cook today. Let's go out for a meal.

But it was terrible. It was like a weight on my heart.

We all have our sorrows.

We all know the past, but who can see the future?

The most frightening thing was this wooden tower.

- Or was it a dream? - Fear is the root of all evil.

Once we no longer live in fear of each other...

Do you hear the bells?

Are you sure?

Silence! In the name of your Jewish God!

Stand where you are placed. No looking around!

Wait until your turn comes.

Attention all Jews!

Have your papers ready!

We'll call you in alphabetical order...

Good morning and good Sabbath!

Did you sleep well, young man?

My God, what am I do with you?

Don't thank me, it was nothing.

Have some coffee and a cake.

You don't have to hurry. It's Saturday.

And then you'll go home.

I'm going to get dressed. Enjoy your breakfast.

Luggage allowance, 30 kilos per head.

Anyone carrying firearms, knives, or any sharp instruments

will be severely punished. Do you understand?

I repeat.

Anyone carrying weapons,

will be severely punished.

We must open the shop!

Mr Brtko! For the love of God!

Have you seen my Danko?

What are you looking at!

I haven't seen him since yesterday.

- Mr Brtko, please. - Go back, now!

I've lost my son.

If you see him, send him to me, please!

Please, God, we're not leaving without him!

Abeles, Henrik.

Abeles, Rosa. Abeles, Rudolf...

Are you crazy?

Opening the shop on the Sabbath?!

This Sabbath is different. Don't come out here.

Go back in, otherwise we'll be in trouble.

Are you giving me orders in my own shop?

I'm not giving you orders. It's for your own good.

- Don't come back here on Monday! - All right.

Drunkard! Don't come back on Monday! I don't want you in here!

- All right, all right. - You drunkard!

Once you've been checked, stand on the right.

Akermann, Ferdinand, Akermannová, Estera,

Akermannová, Estera! Hurry up!

Altman, Leopold, Altmannová, Lujza,

Altmann, Jakob, Altmannová, Šarlota,

Amsel, Salomon, Amselová, Magda,

Baumhatt, Artur.

- The old woman! - Baumhattová, Bela...

- Where is she? - In the back, praying.

Perhaps that's best.

- Any ideas? - I'm just thinking.

Perhaps your brother-in-law has made an exception for your sake.

- What exception? - There are always exceptions.

- I don't believe it. - Keep quiet and you'll see.

This will all blow over.

- Don't go. - Don't let anyone see her.

You can thank your brother-in-law.

You don't know him.

Eliáš, Daniel.

Where is Eliáš, Daniel?

Go and find him!

According to paragraph 1... I appoint Antonio Brtko...

Aryan controller of the Lautmann shop. Heil!

You'll be a rich man, by tomorrow.

You can throw away your carpenter's tools!

Rich man.

Rich man.

A fool.

Gross, Dávid.

- He still owes me for the ladder. - Grosmann, Ján.

- That baker too. - Grosmann, Marek

- Who? - Gut, Peter

I don't know him.

Bastards!

Katz, Josef!

What's wrong with Katz?

He shaved your dirty faces!

You murdering swines!

Mrs Lautmann, I promise...

They won't touch a hair on your head!

I won't let them!

God have mercy on us!

Right. You'll see.

Now be quiet. Just sit there.

No one must see you.

Everything will be all right.

"Let all men's quarrels be healed before the Sabbath."

Everything will be all right. Damn those fascist guards.

Heil!

Jews! Listen to me!

Our laws are humane!

You have nothing to fear, Jews though you are.

But woe betide those who break the law,

be they Jews or Christians!

A Jew-lover is worse than a Jew.

He's not one of them, but he's on their side.

Do not fear or panic.

There's war and you are only going to the work camps.

Food is good, accommodation provided.

So you wanted to trap me, you swine.

Children will go to school, everyone will work in their trade.

Old people will be sent to homes. You will travel by train.

The camp isn't far. This is the truth.

And this I wanted to tell you for your own good.

He hasn't shut the shop.

What's going on?

Blau, Mrs Eliáś, Mittelmann,

the children... luggage...

Sixty!

The Rabbi... Where are they going?

Seventy-five!

I don't understand.

I don't understand!

Tóno!

What's happening?

I don't understand.

Do you hear me?

Why are you looking at me like that?

Come here!

Get ready to move!

Guards! Organise departure! Hurry.

You bastards!

Come on, quickly!

Luggage on the trucks! Hurry up everyone!

It's her or me. She has to leave.

There's still time! She has to leave!

Get packed, Mrs Lautmann!

Quick, you'll be late! I'll help you.

You can take 30 kilos.

You know how much that is? It's plenty.

You must get your name down. They'll send you home anyway...

What good is an old woman to them?

Something to eat? Tinned fruit?

Am I going mad or has the world gone mad?

You've been drunk for two days.

You open the shop on the Sabbath.

Then you come and pack my things. You shout at me. You're scaring me.

What's happening? Tell me!

Ask them! Ask those outside what's happening!?

What have I done wrong? I have never hurt anyone.

What am I? I am nothing!

What can I do?

But you won't understand! You don't want to understand!

You aren't going far, only to the work camps.

We all have to work, that's the law!

Are you listening?

Don't listen to the rumours, We will look after everyone.

Now listen carefully.

Well, listen.

Listen!

Families will be kept together. We believe in humanity!

No one will get hurt, just because you are Jews.

I don't understand.

It's the law. Nothing can be done.

- I don't understand. - A humane law.

- But I don't understand! - Neither do I!

Please don't be scared. It won't be so bad.

They'll send you back. They'll say you're too old.

Say you have gout. Say you're deaf.

Do you know what? Come on. Don't be afraid, come.

Say goodbye to the neighbours.

Do you think they'll put you on a special train?

- What? - A special transport for you?

- What transport? - Look!

They're transporting the Jews.

Do you think they'll leave you behind as a souvenir?

Mrs Lautmann, I beg you.

In the name of that Moses of yours and all your saints.

Don't force me throw you out!

Shall I shout any louder? Right into your ear?

Kuchár, where is he?

They've beaten him like a dog.

They've called him a Jew-lover.

Jew?

Jew!

Jews...

Pogrom!

- What? - Pogrom.

Mrs Lautmann!

Don't run away! Wait!

Mrs Lautmann!

Damn it!

Mrs Lautmann!

Are you there? Open the door!

Mrs Lautmann, be sensible!

Let me in!

I know you're there!

I know you aren't deaf, you just pretend to be.

You want to denounce me after the war

and say that I was a cruel Aryan? Go ahead.

Come on now, you old maid.

You thought I wouldn't come in if you locked the door?

You can't escape. I know you aren't deaf.

You'll go with the rest now.

It isn't my fault.

It's you or me. Nothing more can be done.

May God forgive you and me, too.

Come on, let's go!

No, you're not going that way.

You must! You must!

Get out now!

Out, now!

Get out!

Out!

Now!

I, I... Forgive me.

Forgive me, Mrs Lautmann.

I didn't want to.

Really, I didn't...

I didn't... I thought...

Don't be afraid. You don't have to worry.

It's over now.

Close the shop.

My God, my brother-in-law is coming! You must hide, quickly!

- I have to close the shop! - What good is the shop now?!

I knew it was a trick!

Hide, anywhere!

- Let me go! You're mad! - Hide!

- I will not be shot for you! - Police, help!

Why, Tóno?

Why?

Mrs Lautmann? You can come out now! It's all over.

Mrs Lautmann! What's the matter with you?

Mrs Lautmann!

Jesus, Mrs Lautmann.

Come in, Danko.

Esenc.