Original subtitles

LOVE IN ROME

Well, is that all you have to tell me?

So, this is how it all ends? You suddenly feel the need to rediscover your freedom.

- What does that even mean? - You just said it. Freedom.

Why, because I've taken it away? Have I ever asked you to part from it?

- No. - Have I ever asked you to marry me? - No, never. - What, then?

I'd never dream of doing something so foolish.

Because I love my freedom, too.

Exactly, we love our freedom.

- What do you mean?! - Nothing... that we should be friends.

I feel the need to sever all ties, to... to spend some time alone...

... that's all, I promise you.

I don't believe you, it's a woman. At least have the courage to admit it.

What a lack of imagination you have, Fulvia, there's no other woman...

... just the end of something, of a feeling that I don't want to drag on.

It will only degenerate into lies, boredom and all the rest.

See, I speak to you as a friend and you don't understand me!

No, there's no friend involved, just a bastard, a selfish man!

- That's what you are, selfish! - Very well, I'm selfish.

You could also call me an intellectual, if you like, I won't be offended.

Yes, you're a dirty intellectual.

You feel superior to all, don't you? Superior to feelings, people...

Ah, the intellectual!

You make me laugh with your false modesty, but I know about you!

You don't know anything. Anything about anything.

All you care about is your friends...

... but you don't know them, what they say about you behind your back.

The same things I say about them.

- You're a stupid, selfish coward! - Now you're repeating yourself.

You're a coward! Open your ears. You're nothing but a dirty coward!

Listen, it's late and getting cold. Let's go.

Go ahead, Fulvia. I'm staying here.

Let's go to my house and talk.

I know how that will end. I really don't feel like it.

Very well, I'm not going to get down on my knees and beg. Goodbye!

Do you want to meet tomorrow at 5?

No, why?

It's better to end it right away. That way it's a clean break.

- You, talking about clean things?! - Alright, we won't talk at all.

I just feel sorry for the poor girl who's going to take my place...

... with a worm like you!

Hi, Mr. Cat. How are you? No, don't run away.

You're nice, aren't you?

You enjoy life, don't you?

Say, want to come home with me?

Of course, you like it here!

Who knows how many lady cats you have your eye on?

Well, I'm free now.

Perhaps I should go away somewhere.

Right now, since I'm free. What do you think?

You're right, it's better if I stay.

Such a beautiful night, isn't it? So quiet!

Ma'am? Mrs. Conparetti!

- Pretty, isn't she? Do you know her? - Ma'am?

I forgot the keys and can't seem to wake the landlady up.

Have you tried knocking?

The porter must be sleeping, too. Actually, he's a bit deaf. Ma'am?

- Have you met my dear friend? - Nice to meet you.

You'll have to wait for someone, or I could always try with my keys.

It's useless, the key is really strange, with lots of spikes on the top.

- It's like some kind of artichoke. - No artichokes, I'm afraid.

Someone else will turn up soon, it's not that late.

I hope so. I'm going to sit and wait over there.

May I keep you company?

I wouldn't want to bother you. Aren't you going home to bed?

No, I'm not tired. And I like the night.

There's a calm in the air. A silence...

You're from Veneto, I believe.

How did you know that? Yes, I'm from Treviso.

But I've lived in Rome for a while. Are you from Rome?

I like Rome.

Everyone is so kind but people mind their own business. Thanks.

You're a student, aren't you?

Well, kind of, yes. I was supposed to finish last year.

But then I won an acting contest and came to Rome.

- Ah, so you're an actor? - Yeah, I got a contract.

So far I've only had a small part in 'Poor but Pretty', but...

Ah, yes, I remember that one. You were very good, you know?

It's strange that you saw me, my part was cut from the film.

- What's your name? - That's right, we haven't been properly introduced.

- My name is Marcello. Marcello Cenni. - Anna Padoan, nice to meet you.

Are you a lawyer? No, not a lawyer...

A doctor?

- Then an engineer? - No, I don't do anything. That is, I write.

And what do you write? Novels? Love stories?

No, things that are much more boring. Articles, essays... about literature.

Ah, that's all Greek to me. Apart from novels and magazines...

- Did you know that you're very cute? - Thanks, you're not bad yourself.

Hey, excuse me! Would you leave the door open for me, please?

- Alright. - Thank you.

It's a shame he turned up. I was enjoying our chat.

Well, I'll wait for you to finish your cigarette, then I'll go up.

You have the hands of a child. Just like a schoolgirl.

- And do you ever comb that hair? - Sometimes.

No, they're horrible, I don't want you to see them.

Marcacci, this cameraman, he took some for me but I have them at home.

- These ones are really bad. - Will you show me the others?

No. No, I have to go up now.

I'm working tomorrow morning and have to wake up at 6.

Perhaps we'll see each other again.

The number is in the phone book. Comparetti Boarding House. Goodnight.

What are you doing? No...

Look at the photographs!

- Ah, this one... - No, I don't like it. - No, it's interesting.

It's horrible. There is one I like, let me show you.

No?

No, you should really leave...

Look, it's dawn!

Listen, the first tram!

The sound of the tram rather than the singing of the birds...

What did you say?

Romeo and Juliet. They had to leave each other at dawn, too.

The difference being that they were in love.

It's difficult to love someone these days.

We lay all our cards on the table.

It's easier to become friends, and probably better, after all.

And yet, the more I think about it, I'd really like to be in love.

But the women that I've known, either they were false...

... or too annoying, or stupid, or too sure of themselves.

I love women in general, don't laugh...

... but I still haven't met the one I'm looking for.

Because I'm looking for simplicity, intelligence, and a certain naivety.

But it's rare to find all that in one person, don't you think?

Usually, the intelligence is cunning, the simplicity is false...

... the naivety is idiocy.

And soon enough it's over.

What's the matter?

Are you crying?

- What is it? - Nothing.

Is there something wrong? Did I offend you?

Are you in trouble? Do you need money?

I don't understand.

- Are you in love? - I wouldn't be crying if I was.

- Is work going badly? - No, I'm crying because... I don't know why.

Where did I put my handkerchief?

I'm sorry, but sometimes I just feel so sad.

When I first came to Rome, I cried every night. For no reason at all.

How stupid of me!

I like you, you know?

But now you have to leave.

Sorry, I can't let the landlady see you.

I'll walk you down to the front door, but we have to be quiet.

My God, I look terrible!

- Next week I'll be free. Call me? - Sure!

- Bye. - Bye.

Oh, Marcello! What are you doing here?

- Already up? - No, Dad, I just got in.

- I thought so. Anything fun? - Not really, the usual stuff.

I'm going to burn a few more bridges and then start working, I've decided.

- Working on a lectureship? - Yes. I'm not sure yet, we'll see.

Well, I'll leave you in peace. Do you need anything? A cup of tea?

- No, thanks. I'll get up soon. - See you later.

He stopped to think, once again, about that warm and tender body...

... that had adhered to his without holding back....

... and tried to work out the secret behind those tears.

Everything had turned around with a marvelous simplicity...

... Anna hadn't said anything unpleasant, she was a nice girl...

... but he thought that he would never see her again.

Just the next day, that adventure already seemed so absurd...

In an art gallery, one evening, he would run into Fulvia again.

- Hi! - Hi, how are you?

Their encounter was a cordial one.

Fulvia had decided that she would play the part of friend...

... and to renounce the sulk of the abandoned lover forever.

Marcello was grateful for this.

And since he was already bored, he offered to accompany her.

They went to dinner at a little restaurant in Trastevere...

... and ended up seeing a variety show.

Well done!

Well done!

And now, here for you, are the famous Caribbean Troop!

I'll be right back, I have to make a phone call.

The memory of seeing Anna that evening...

... pushed Marcello to see her again.

Remorseful of the fact that he had offered to call but had then forgotten.

Excuse me, where are they shooting 'Son of the Barbarians'?

- Down there, set number 15. - Thank you.

- Watch out for the cables. - Sorry.

Make way! Make way! Good!

- I'll be right there. - You printed the second, the fourth?

Come on, let's hurry it up! Anna! Where's Anna?

Anna, let's go!

This way you're much better, with that make-up you looked like a...

Tony? Where's Tony? Meneghini, don't make me wait!

- Where were you? - Well, Sir... - Right now?

Anna, try to be more anxious and when you say the line, look in his eyes.

You're in love with him, alright? So, are we ready?

Silence!

Silence!

Hey!

Stop rustling those papers. Action!

"What are you doing here? I told you not to come, they want to kill you!"

- What did she say? - I don't know... - Speak louder, we can't hear you!

- Go on! Action! - "What are you doing here?!"

"I told you not to come, they want to kill you!"

- What is it? You're laughing, now? - He makes me laugh! - How come?

- He's making faces at me. - Meneghini, don't be an idiot!

Come on. Well, let's keep going. Clothes, make-up! Go on!

- Are we shooting? - Yes. Pistoletta, bring something for him to stand on.

- Why? - The man must always be taller.

That's it. Let's shoot, then. Everyone out of the way, and...

Lights, camera...

Scene 126, take 7. 'Son of the Barbarians'. - Action!

Silence!

Hey!

What are you writing?

And you, leave those papers alone, please! Rolling...

Scene 126, take 8. 'Son of the Barbarians'.

Action!

"What are you doing here?!"

"I told you not to come, they want to kill you!"

- Break time, let's go and eat. - Stop! Turn everything off!

- How was I? - Wonderful! Very natural.

- But he didn't say anything! - Well, that's a good sign!

- Excuse me, where are the dressing rooms? - At the end of the corridor.

- Are we meeting up at Ballotta's? - Yeah.

I'm looking forward to a plate of pasta.

- Excuse me, Miss Padoan's dressing room? - The signs are on the doors. - Thank you.

- Are you looking for Miss Padoan? - Yes. - That door just there.

Come in!

Ah, it's you! How did you find me?

Well, it wasn't easy but I managed it. Aren't you happy to see me?

Of course, but I thought you had forgotten me.

You disappeared so suddenly...

- Did you call the boarding house? - Yes, yesterday.

The lady didn't sound too happy. "She isn't here any more!"

- And then she hung up. - Well, yeah. I had to move.

When she realised that you spent the night in my room...

... she made such a scene!

- But she didn't see us. - I'm afraid she did.

Such a horrible woman, she spends all her time spying on people.

It's good to see you again!

I'm so excited right now! Today I had my big scene!

And I did really well, you know? The director was very happy.

- I thought about you, you know? - In a good way, I hope? - Yes.

Actually, no. I was angry because I didn't know where to find you.

So give me your number, okay?

See? A gift from an admirer.

I thought perhaps they were from you.

No! No, Marcello, please. No, I still have all my make-up on!

Please! What a bully!

You're strong, when you want to be.

Come in!

- My dear Anna! - Oh, look who's here!

Thanks for the roses, I didn't know you were back.

This is Prof. Curtatoni, an old friend of mine. Marcello...

- Cenni. - The son of Count Cenni, noble guard to his holiness? - Yes.

Ah, I know your father well, we are old friends!

I came back last night and saw Peppino, he said that you were working here.

- It's been so long, I thought I'd say hello. - You've been away for almost 2 months.

- Excuse me, I have to get changed. - As you see, you are my first thought.

I see your father quite often.

We are part of a sect. Montevarchi, Fassi, know them?

We often visit Trastevere purely for gastronomical reasons...

... we discovered a nice little place in Vicolo del Moro, do you know it?

- No! - Oh, you absolutely have to try it!

- Are you shooting today? - No, for I'm finished for today.

Now Marcello and I are going out for breakfast.

- Are you coming? - No, thanks, I've already eaten.

- I just came by to say hello. Now I'll leave you. - That's a shame.

You look marvelous! In splendid form!

One of these days I'll call you, then we can have a chat, okay?

- call me when you like. This is my new number, I moved house. - Thank you.

- Goodbye. My respects to your Dad. - Thank you.

I said we were going to eat just to get rid of him, do you mind?

No. Actually, it's an idea.

What did you think of him? He likes to flirt with me.

Kind of an annoying, but he has style, don't you think?

- He's not bad. - No. Have you known him long? - I don't know, about 6 months.

- He calls me often, but I rarely see him. - Are you expecting any other friends?

No, why?

No, Marcello... No...

No, let's go and eat, please. I'm hungry! Come on.

Veal stew, Roman style tripe and roast fish.

- What's wrong? Don't you like it here? - Of course, it's a nice little place.

So you're a count, a real count!

Yes, but 'count' makes me sound penniless.

You would be better with a nice rich girl or a famous actress.

- You read too many comics! - You're right, I'm kidding.

- I wanted to tell you something, but I don't think I have the courage. - Come on, tell me.

Nothing...

That I really like you.

Do you remember what you said the other night?

I want to be that woman you were talking about.

To be close to you but without getting bored.

I don't know, it gives me a feeling of calm, of security.

I like being with you.

The trouble is that I like you, too. What shall we do? Well?

I'm happy.

Anna, I left my sweater in your dressing room. Did you find it?

- Yes, I'll give it to you tomorrow. - Anything else? His shoes, underwear...

- Bye, Anna. - Bye.

That guy might make people laugh, but I found him quite vulgar.

Who, Marcacci? Because you don't know him.

If you knew him, you would realise that he's really a nice guy...

... and a really good cameraman.

Let's go. Shall we?

- Bye, Anna. - Bye.

Well? You're not smiling anymore. What's wrong?

Nothing. I see that you're happy, you seem like a different person.

I feel a bit ridiculous in front of all your friends and colleagues.

It's like I'm checking up on you.

Why? You know it's not true. It's a bad environment, I know, but...

Anna, I didn't ask for an explanation!

I want to get through these things without changing, being myself...

But it's difficult.

Why don't you help me, if you like me? I have lots of faith in you.

- That's it, over here! - Well done!

- Break time is over! - Let's go, come on.

Marcello was happy in his relationship with Anna...

... recognising in her new ways to express himself...

... and realising that Anna was modeling herself on his character.

Two months passed, and they would see each other almost every evening.

Bye, Bijou!

- Oh, Cenni! Good evening. - Good evening.

But, you're early. I wasn't expecting you until 8. What time is it?

5 minutes to 7.

- Good evening. - Good evening. - Bye.

Come in.

He came by for a moment, just to say hello.

How come you're so early? I thought you had work to do.

- Want some cognac? - Thanks.

You're a little drunk, it seems.

Of course not! I've only had two cognacs.

- You spent the afternoon with Curtatoni. - No!

He was only here a while. 15, 20 minutes, that's all.

And in 20 minutes you managed to smoke all these cigarettes...

... and play all these records?

Curtatoni is an idiot, but he's quite funny.

I find idiots very funny!

Long live the idiots!

So, we have one cigarette...

... lit and abandoned in its entirety, which has slowly consumed itself.

See, the ash is still intact, a sign that the tobacco is good.

Who do you think you are, Sherlock Holmes?

But, why was it abandoned? Why?

Perhaps something more interesting grabbed his attention...

... or her attention. - Jealous? - I'm kidding.

Our relationship is based on a mutual respect for freedom, is it not?

Jealous of Curtatoni! That would be the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard!

You're right.

Do you like it?

It's wonderful.

Let's go.

Turn the light off.

At the beginning of summer Anna, would go to Capri to work on a film...

... but Marcello would not follow her.

Sir, shall I look after it?

Anna's departure smoothed his nerves.

He looked forward to seeing her again soon...

... but in the mean time savoured that sweet sense of vacation...

... that her absence always seemed to cause in him.

- Hello! - Here's Marcello!

- Hi, Dad. - Hi, you're a little late.

- Over here, Cenni. Sit next to me. - Yes, sit here.

Romolo, another place please. And another oxtail stew...

How was that, everything okay?

- Very good! - My compliments to the chef! - Thank you, thank you!

I hear that you're working on a lectureship, well done! Your father is very proud of you!

Dad is very indulgent with me.

And what have you heard from our Anna? I haven't seen her for a month.

- Still in Capri? - Yes, I think so. - Do you still see her often?

She's a good friend, nothing more.

What a girl! What temperament, a real pistol!

Very nice though, isn't she? Though with that angelic air...

... they say that she is quite erotically-driven.

But it is really that candid air that excites the men.

You can see that she is a creature born for love.

Created solely for that purpose, to make love.

You're silent. I understand.

That girl will always be a great mystery to me.

Though she is sincere. She enjoys love and isn't afraid to admit it!

She also spoke often of you, with much fondness!

She has that way of looking at you, almost offering herself...

... her own special way, full of modesty.

But I'm sure you know these things better than me, do you not?

You've had the fortune to get to know her better. And you're young...

- What are those two talking about? - What's all this chatter, eh?

Oh, it's nothing! An acquaintance we have in common..

Hey! If you're talking about women, we want to hear it as well!

We didn't want to disturb...

... your calm sexual desire that is so quickly and easily conquered!

That's a good one!

- Always the joker! - Well, who is this girl?

Just a girl we know. A starlet.

Come, let's sit down.

- For me, too. - Haven't you drank enough? - What does it matter to you?

Anyway, why did you call me? Were you bored?

- I needed to see a friendly face. - Ah, how kind of you...

But unfortunately that's true. These days I'm just a friend, a good friend.

So, why didn't you answer my letters?

They were very nice, but they made me feel uncomfortable.

Tell me about you. What are you up to?

There's a guy who wants to take your place.

- I said everything would work out. - I told him about us.

Naturally, he hates you and is mad with jealousy.

Today, just to make him suffer I told him we were going out together.

He's kind, and ready to forgive me if I just give him the word.

So, why don't you?

- Because I love you. - No, you shouldn't say that.

But it's true! Look!

Don't laugh. I bought it 2 years ago in Austria, just as a corny joke.

I even wrote: "To Marcello, for all my life, your Fulvia."

It was just a joke, but today it's the only thing I have.

Keep it.

No, what would I do with it?

So? Keep it. It doesn't mean anything, so it doesn't matter.

Still, you can always throw it away.

It's nice here. The music, the low lights...

- It's like things aren't really over. - It's depressing, let's go.

My head is spinning, help me!

A whisky!

- Fulvia, what's wrong? - Leave me alone!

It's impossible! You always said that you loved me!

- You can't have changed overnight! - Stop it, come on...

Leave me alone! What has she done to you, made you lose your head?

- Who? - That girl, I don't remember her name.

I know that she's cheating on you, everyone says so! Do you really love her?

Fulvia, I call you for company and you start this again. Come on...

- I feel sick. - Come on, Fulvia. - Let go of me! Leave me alone!

- Listen, I... - Go to hell! I never want to see you again!

Fulvia!

That night, the memory of Anna gripped him obsessively once more.

He hadn't seen her for so long.

He had always put off going to visit her in Capri...

... just as one does with things that one truly desires...

... finding some subtle pleasure in prolonging the wait.

But now he had decided it was time.

- No! No! - You can't escape!

- Excuse me, where is Miss Padoan? - Sorry?

- Miss Anna Padoan. - She's over there, bathing.

Thanks.

How wonderful!

That tickles!

Turn around!

- I'm going to get cigarettes. - Okay.

Anna!

Marcello!

What a surprise! When did you get here? Why didn't you call and tell me?

I got here this morning, have been looking for you in all the hotels.

Yeah, but I'm in a boarding house, such a beautiful place, you'll see...

- What have you been doing in Rome? - Nothing. - Look, I'm already a bit tanned.

- Aren't you working today? - Yes, around 5, when the sun is lower.

Ah! It's wonderful, here. You forget all your worries.

- Who was that guy you were with? - Didn't you recognise him?

That was Tony Meneghini, the actor. I introduced you to him in Rome.

Am I mistaken, or did I hear my name?

Tony, this is Marcello Cenni, a dear friend of mine.

- Hello. - Nice to meet you.

The water is amazing, want to go for a swim? Tony will lend you some trunks.

- No, thanks. - Well, I'm going to get changed.

Come and see!

See the end of that big rock out there? Well, Tony wanted to dive from there!

- He's really crazy. - That's nothing, it's only about 15 metres.

- Well? Isn't he crazy to dive from 15 metres? - No, he must be brave.

Go on, Tony, you're really crazy!

In 'Son of the Minotaur' I dived from 50 metres, no stunt double!

This is my first time in Capri, and it's like I've been born again!

You can sleep so well out here. Today I slept from dawn 'till 11!

- 11:30, more like. I thought you were dead. - I was so tired!

If I didn't wake you, you'd have slept all day.

- So would you! - I was already up at 9!

Ate my breakfast, did my usual exercises...

And I hardly slept last night!

That old English lady next door was making so much noise!

I didn't hear anything! Give me that pipe!

What would you say, Marcello, if I started smoking a pipe?

- Give it back! - No. - Come here! - No!

Help! Marcello! No, don't hurt me!

- See you two later, okay? - Goodbye. - Goodbye.

Bye!

- Mr. Meneghini, can we have an autograph? - Of course.

- Thanks. - You're welcome.

Bye, Tony!

Thank goodness he stayed behind, I thought he wanted to come with us.

He's nice, though. Not much personality, but smooth and athletic.

- He looks like a razor commercial. - Why do you say that?

- He's a dear friend. Fair, intelligent... - Oh, really?

I didn't realise.

He seemed quite common...

Well, it's not like everyone has deep discussions about literature.

I like Tony! He's funny, and sound.

I never have partake in deep discussions about literature.

I like both intelligent and ignorant people, but authentic ones...

... not fashionable idiots.

Tony isn't an idiot.

I wasn't talking about him, I just meant in general.

Why are we arguing?

You know, I have this sudden urge to eat spaghetti with clams.

No, thank you.

Anna, I want to make you a proposal...

... come back to Rome with me tomorrow, we could live together, if you like.

Together?

Oh, Marcello!

I want to be honest with you.

I love you and I want to tell you everything.

Something happened with Tony.

I don't even know why.

If you got here a week ago, it wouldn't have happened.

What happened?

Everything.

When did it start?

A week ago.

He was flirting with me, but only as a joke.

One of the girls working on the film was madly in love with him...

... and she never left us alone.

Then, one evening...

... he came to hide in my room, but just as a joke, you know.

I suddenly found his face over mine, I didn't recognise him at first.

I didn't think it could happen so quickly.

I kept saying: "Who are you?"

You could have written and told me, I would have saved myself a trip.

I would have written to you!

Please don't hate me, I'm sure things won't last with him!

He's not my type! We have nothing in common.

Then why did you do it?

I don't know.

But I swear, it's you I love!

I don't know, it's this sea air that makes me feel so drowsy.

You have to understand me! You're much more important to me!

I'm going back to Rome this evening.

We have to let some time pass...

... and everything will work out. Once the film is done, it'll be over.

Quiet!

Can't you stop it now? Why don't you leave him right away?

No, it's not possible, I can't do it.

But, I'm soon it will be over soon.

Marcello, you have to be patient. I'm being honest with you.

This is why I'm not asking you to stay, so that you don't suffer.

So, Marcello spent most of the summer without hearing from Anna...

He thought it was better this way.

He began to forget about her...

... with a slight feeling of pain and resentment....

... but one morning Anna came back into his life.

There's a Miss Padoan on the phone.

Tell her I'm not here.

Where should I turn the page, at the start of the second paragraph?

Yes, yes, of course.

She left her address and phone number. Says to call her right away, it's urgent.

- See you soon. - Goodbye. - Get me that article before Tuesday!

Alright, goodbye now.

Hey!

- Hi. - Hi! - Eleonora, do you know Marcello Cenni? - Nice to meet you.

- And this is Giovanni, Dr. Fiore. - A pleasure. - Nice to meet you.

This is the famous Marcello I told you about. Where have you been lately?

Nowhere, just working from home.

Oh, always working! Soon you'll become a hermit!

You should be out with the living!

By the way, I'm throwing a small dinner party on Friday. You really must come!

- Sorry, I'm leaving tomorrow. - Really, where are you going? - Let's say, Milan.

Ah, Milan? Never the truth, but he always has an excuse ready!

I'd have never thought of Milan. Anyway, Eleonora will be there, too.

And wouldn't it be nicer than going on a business trip?

- It's a great responsibility for me. - No, it's decided. He's coming.

- Don't insist, the gentleman clearly isn't interested. - I really am leaving.

Have you seen these little angels? Think they'd look good in my room?

Your room? Then you'll have to blindfold them!

Funny! You never want to help me. What do you think of them, Giovanni?

- I like them, they've very artistic. - If they're artistic, I'll buy them.

I mean, I'll blindfold them.

- Goodbye. - Goodbye - Bye, darling. - Bye. - Bye. - Good day.

- Don't let him charm you, okay? - Alright. - Bye.

Well, goodbye. I have to pick my father's car up from a garage nearby.

- He had to take mine, this morning. - Mind if I accompany you? - No.

You know, I already knew your name.

I read one of your articles on Greek poetry a while back.

- Really, you read such boring stuff? - It wasn't boring, it was very good.

- Hey, why don't we eat lunch together? - Are you always so forward?

No, this is the first time. Usually I'm much more shy.

On a day like this we could even go and eat in the country.

But you can't for various reasons.

The most important being that you really don't feel like it.

You're mistaken. I'd come, but I'm busy.

That's why the telephone was invented. But you don't feel like it, do you?

- Are you really leaving tomorrow? - No, but what does that matter?

And, would you like to go for breakfast in the country with me?

Yes, I'd love to.

Well, seeing that they invented the telephone...

I'm afraid we've gone the wrong way. Take a look at that map, will you?

- And this? - Ah, that's not mine.

It must belong to one of my father's many adventurous conquests!

I often find hairpins, tissues, lipstick and things in here.

And I get rid of them, if my mother found out there would be quite a scene!

Your father is a real Don Juan, then?

He's terrible! Seems to like girls of my age, too.

That is, in their twenties. He has good taste.

- No, this way goes to the sea. - Well, then let's go.

Let's go to San Lorenzo, I've hardly been there this summer.

I have a hut on the beach down there. What do you say?

- Alright, but I can't be too late. - No, we'll have breakfast and leave.

It smells nice.

Tomorrow I'll give it back to my father, washed and ironed.

- You'll embarrass him! - Of course not, he always confides in me.

These days we have an understanding.

The new generation is promising.

Young people are much more understanding of their parents.

- Do you confide in him, too? - Sometimes. Partially.

Here we are.

- Will you give me a hand? - Sure!

It's just over there.

But, we must be in Africa!

So, this must be your trap. It's good, but I don't see any cheese.

It's a failed trap, this one.

I'll go and put the fruit in the fridge and make us some crepes

I'm an expert at making crepes with jam.

But first, the beer. I'm parched, how about you?

Just out of curiosity...

... where do you hide the bodies of your hapless lovers?

- Here. - Here? - Yes.

There aren't many people I spend time with willingly.

But I like being with you, you're an intelligent girl.

I'm not that intelligent...

... but I know what I want, perhaps that's a flaw.

This is a nice place, but I'd have made it more marine-themed, if I were you.

I can help you, if you like. I studied decorating.

Don't bother, it's not worth it.

- Can I ask you a question? - Sure.

Why haven't you tried to kiss me yet?

That was the first thing that came into my mind, but...

... you seem to inspire me to tenderness and respect, Eleonora.

Do you mind?

How curious, we still speak to other in such a formal way.

If someone were to walk in right now...

... they would never believe that we're just two good acquaintances...

... a little unhappy, in search of who knows what.

Then let's try to be less formal.

Right...

... you're nice, why don't you call me one of these days?

My number is in the phone book.

Yes, but you know...

... I didn't quite catch your surname when we were introduced.

Then we really are two strangers!

My name is Eleonora Curtatoni.

- Are you related to Prof. Curtatoni? - He's my father. Why, didn't you know?

- He knows you quite well. - Yeah...

I know him as well, but I didn't realise he was your father.

We had better get back, it's getting late.

- Do you mind dropping me here? I have to meet a friend. - A friend?

Bye, wise and endearing Eleonora.

- You would make a good wife. - When why don't you marry me?

No, actually I don't think we should see each other again.

Taxi!

Come in.

No you don't!

Something really funny happened today!

We were shooting a scene and a dog turned up.

No, let me finish! The director goes: "Get that dog out of here!"

And one of the actors said: "Are you talking to me?"

- Tastes like soap! - You see? He thought he was being called a dog!

Look, look!

Around the middle of November...

... Anna had to visit her parents for a few days.

On those evenings, Marcello happily spent time with his friends...

Experiencing that sense of relaxation that Anna's departure always gave him...

... and looking forward to the pleasure he would feel on her return.

He was expecting her to get back the following day.

Stop that! No! No!

- Come on, say yes! - No! - Say yes!

- Hi, Marcello. - Hi. - Say yes, or I'll break your arm!

- Are you going, or not? The champagne finished! - Marcello, have some whisky!

- Open another crate. - But that's warm, darling! - Then put it int he fridge!

Mother of God, what a mess! Get out of here, go on!

Oh, here's Marcello!

Good, now Marcello can tell us one. He knows some good ones. Come here.

- Me, are you kidding? - Come on! - I hope it's not in Latin!

Please, that's enough! By the way, why didn't you bring Anna?

She's not in Rome, she's in Treviso. She'll be back tomorrow or the day after.

Liar! Are you talking about Padoan? I saw her today in Piazza Di Spagna!

- You must be mistaken, she's in Treviso. - Marcello, find another excuse!

- He's saying that she's out of Rome! - Alright, maybe I made a mistake...

No, I want to know the truth! Perhaps you didn't think it the place to bring her?

You know that we're not prejudiced, you could have brought her.

The truth? Well, the best proof that she's out of Rome is that I'm here.

Otherwise I wouldn't have come. I get bored by myself, you know...

- That's not very nice. - But it's true.

Get me another whisky, please.

No, don't answer!

Hello? Hello, who is this?

- Are you already going, Sir? - Yes. - Good idea, this place is such a mess!

Mother of God, another wave!

- Eleonora, you're here! - We couldn't wait to leave...

- Marcello! - Good evening.

- I hope you're not leaving just as I'm arriving? - I'm afraid I must.

You kept your promise, I haven't heard from you.

- I thought perhaps I might have offended you. - No, of course not.

Perhaps you thought that I made too much of that trip. and you were...

... afraid to meet me because you didn't know how to get out of it.

- Well, you misunderstood me. - No, I assure you.

But I really must go now. Excuse me, Eleonora.

- Eleonora! - Yes... - Here.

- A cognac and a token for the phone, please. - Here you go. A cognac!

Your cognac, Sir!

A glass of water.

I'm afraid we're without sugar for tomorrow morning...

... would you mind giving me a couple of sachets?

- Thanks. Do you have liquor? - Yes.

- How much does that whiskey cost? - This one? 3,000 lire, it's English.

- Well, no! Give me that bottle of Cinzano. - Here you go.

- How much is that? - 780 lire.

Thank you.

Please, please...

- What floor? - Six, please. - Ah, me too.

Please...

Did you get the whisky? Marcello!

The gentleman kindly opened the door for me, you weren't answering the phone.

Yeah, this is Peppino Barlacchi, a friend of my cousin.

I was tired so I didn't answer, but I would have called you tomorrow.

- When did you get back? - This evening.

- Yesterday... - Ah, yes, yesterday!

Peppino gave me a ride, so I didn't have to spend the night on the train.

Did you come directly to Rome?

- We wanted to, but we had to stop in Siena. - So you left on Saturday.

Yes, we had hoped to make it but the car broke down and it was raining...

... so we had to stop in Siena.

- Well, I... - Are you going?

- Yes, it's about time I left. - Wait, let me show you out.

I hope to see you soon, Miss. I'll call you soon...

- Goodnight, thanks for the ride. - You're welcome.

Yes, alright. I don't mean to tell you lies, but that's how I am.

You shouldn't take me seriously...

... the kind of person I am, I don't deserve to be treated properly...

... but he was stronger than me.

I'm terrible, I know, but I need to be treated badly.

- Did he mistreat you? - No, but he didn't care about me.

I need to be with someone who doesn't care about me. You care too much.

Barlacchi is different.

We were in that hotel. He was a stranger, really.

- We had a laugh, a joke... - Then in Rome, you stayed together.

We were already together by then.

He asked me if he could stay here as if it was a normal thing to do.

If he had shown signs of really liking me I'd have told him to go to hell!

You shouldn't take me seriously, Marcello.

I'm sorry that you're suffering, but I'm really not worth it, believe me.

And Curtatoni, did he mistreat you too?

Why do you ask about him?

Curtatoni is gone, over! He doesn't exist anymore.

- It's ridiculous, he was such an animal! - What do you mean?

He lost his head. He would slap me, you know...

- So you were with him? - A few times. - That night I saw him at your place?

I told you that he was an animal, I couldn't say no to him!

And we had been drinking, at his age he was worse than a boy.

- After that I didn't see him again. - Marcacci, too, I bet.

It only happened once with Marcacci, when he was taking my photographs.

- It was disgusting? - Well, why didn't stop him?

It was impossible! I couldn't have screamed and woken up the whole hotel!

- So I changed rooms. - When? - Three days later... no, two.

- The third night I didn't let him in. - Because you met Meneghini!

- No, that's enough! Stop it! - No!

No! No! No!

No!

I told you everything.

I know that you don't want to be with me now...

... but I love you.

You've hurt yourself!

Hold on...

Poor Anna! Such a repugnant story.

You've taken all my strength away.

No, leave me alone.

If you carry on like this, things will end badly.

What do I care about what might happen to me?

I love you, Marcello! I swear, you're the only one.

- Very beautiful. - Yes, the great thing about this place is that it's isolated.

- No noises, no neighbours, I couldn't live in the city. - Of course.

- This is the garden. Then there's the grounds, more than 1,000 hectares. - Wow!

When I think how much it costs to maintain this place, it makes me cry.

- Sorry, I hope that's not too forward. - Not at all. - Eleonora! Dad!

- My beautiful Silvia! Say hello, go on. - Hello. - Hello.

- Are you coming for a swim with us? - Yes, we can go for a swim too.

- Very good. - Go on, you have time. Have a nice swim.

Oh, Camilla, look who's here. It's Master Cenni, Marcello.

- Sorry, I'm filthy, you'll have to shake my finger. How are you? - Good, thank you.

Did you at least offer him something to drink? Eat?

Mother, don't worry about it.

That's enough of your mollycoddling, you'll scare our Marcello away!

See? They're always like this, they make me feel so ridiculous!

- My old lady! - Come on, I'll find you some trunks.

Sandrino, wait for me! Don't run!

- Do you know how to swim? - I'm sure I'll be okay.

Do you really like it here?

Yes, it's really in the style of today. I can already see cocktails...

... lots of beautiful women, perhaps a charity party.

- No! Only parties in your honour. - Of course.

You're a vain one, aren't you?

Dad says that if we want to come and live here...

... there's an entire wing on the first floor, with a big studio.

You could work in peace. I wouldn't disturb you, don't worry!

- You would be the angel of the house... - No, I'd be your own personal angel.

I could be your secretary. I'd be good at it, you'll see.

I'd keep your papers in order, type things up, and force you to work!

Now you're scaring me! You want to put order in my life?

- I'd love to. - And if I put some disorder in yours?

Why not? Whatever you want.

- So, can I tell Dad? - Let's think about it for a while.

My place isn't this nice, but at least we would have our privacy there.

Anyway, we'll talk about it later.

Little by little...

... the idea of marrying Eleonora became acceptable to Marcello.

He lived in a state of resigned happiness...

... with Eleonora guiding him towards a new existence.

And this is how it was until the day they got engaged.

Congratulations to both of you!

Winter passed, spring came and they began to take trips again.

They were to be married at the beginning of summer.

Why are you looking at me like that? Marcello, what are you thinking?

I'm thinking, that I like being with you. When I hug you I feel like another person.

- Do you mind? - No, of course I don't mind!

- What happened? Has someone died? - I don't know...

Sir...

My father?

Be brave!

Master!

My God, so much rain!

- Hurry up with the goodbyes, you two! - Just a minute, Dad.

- Goodnight, Marcello. - Goodnight.

- What are you doing tomorrow? - I don't know, I'll be working from home.

- So, will you call me? - Of course!

No...

- Bye, darling. - Bye. - I love you!

Goodnight, Sir.

- Bye! - Bye!

Where are you running, Miss?

- Come with us, we have an umbrella! - No, leave me alone!

- Otherwise you'll get all wet! - Leave me alone!

Anna!

What are you doing here?

Nothing.

I was living with a friend, but her relatives came to stay...

I don't have an apartment anymore, you see.

Come on, I'll give you a ride.

Let's go.

So, where do you want to go?

I don't know.

Come on...

Prepare something to eat and a warm tea.

But, there's nothing in the house, Master, just cheese and eggs.

Alright. Tea, eggs and cheese.

Here...

... you can stay here tonight.

I'll bring you some towels and run you a bath.

Thanks.

I heard you got engaged.

Are you happy?

Yes, I'm happy.

- When you left me... - Please, let's not talk about it.

Well, when we left each other I had finished the film, I didn't have a job.

So I went away with the theatre company run by Nello D'Amore.

The singer, you know?

After a month the company folded, they didn't pay us a penny.

Anyway, I had no money so I had to leave the apartment.

I have so many debts.

Did you like being in that theatre company?

I felt so lonely...

I always felt the need to see a friendly face.

Could you pass me my bag, please? I need a cigarette.

This house is so quiet.

I feel like I'm in the countryside.

You don't know what being on tour is like...

... horrible hotel rooms every single night.

Here I feel like a little girl again.

You know, I want to settle down now.

I want to find myself a job, you know, something in sales...

It's useless, I'm not cut out for acting. For whatever it's worth...

Were you friends with Nello D'Amore?

You have no idea. He's such a disgusting man.

And, you know... vulgar.

All of them are vulgar and disgusting to you... afterwards.

Margherita!

I was thinking, I'm very tired. I want to go back to my village.

- I'm too tired. - Alright, when do you want leave?

Well, when you've found another maid. Next week, maybe.

Very good, go. Go...

The next day, Marcello would talk to Eleonora...

... he told her that he felt it was in both their interests...

... to call off the marriage.

So, Anna stayed with him and three months passed.

Hey, what have you done? Robbed all the shops?

- Hold on, let me help you. - Turn around. - What? - Turn around!

- What? What is it? - Look.

Oh, how wonderful!

- How wonderful! - Careful, everything's falling!

What a disaster!

Ah, this is good! We have potatoes, too?

I really love you!

- Are you happy with your new landlord! - Very!

One day, while driving past a cinema-theatre...

... Marcello read the name of Nello D'Amore on a poster...

... and he became suddenly curious...

... to see what this singer looked like, who Anna had so often spoke of.

- Yvette, I'm so very nervous! - Oh, why?

Because that idiot Moreno is never here on time.

Oh, here he is! Come on out, idiot!

Sorry I'm late, I had a whatchamacallit... an appointment!

Moreno, please meet Miss Yvette.

- Our delicious associate. - Honoured to meet you. Pretty, eh?

The young lady is a champion swimmer.

Yeah, I can do a length in 3 seconds!

- I see! - What do you see? She's a champion swimmer!

Yes, I see! Are you kidding? I did 3 years in the Marines!

You? With that body?!

Right, I was in a submarine for three years!

In a submarine!

- Then they sent me away, because... - Because? - Because?

- I like to sleep with the window open. - Get off! Go on!

And now, ladies and gentlemen, may I present Nello D'Amore!

"Kill me, but don't leave me..."

"Deceive me, if you don't love me..."

"How worthless, my life without you..."

"I want you! Want you! Want you..."

"I want to die, in your arms..."

"To not suffer, without you..."

"Kill me, with your kisses...

"With the chill, of your icy stare..."

"Flatter me with one last lie, I want you! Want you! Want you..."

- Where were you today? - Today? I went to see an old film.

- Where? - Where? Near Porta San Giovanni.

Was there a variety show, too?

Yes, but I only saw a little, I didn't want to be late.

Was it funny?

- You know, the usual stuff. I'll make coffee. - No, hold on.

Are you happy with me? You're not bored, are you?

What are you saying?

Bored, after everything you did for me?

You've been so good, you know that?

And what did Nello D'Amore have to say?

Ah, so that's why? You're still jealous of him, aren't you?

Well, since you're so well-informed, let's talk about it.

I was with him because he still owes me some money.

- And did he pay you? - He promised to. - So you'll see each other again?

He means nothing to me, it's just the money! We need it, don't we?

Don't worry about that, we won't be without money for long.

I just finished a job that they have to pay me for.

Do you prefer this life or life with the theatre company?

Oh, enough of these questions! Don't spoil everything!

We're happy together, aren't we?

Aren't you happy?

Go on, make some coffee...

Bye.

One, two, three, hop!

Ah, you were home?

No, I got back now.

I wanted to tell you, but...

We can't live like this.

It's absurd that you pay for everything, and you know...

- I want to do something! - What do you want to do?

Theatre.

It's an uncomfortable life, but what else can I do?

Theatre?

Where?

Listen, Marcello, everyone is different. I'm not made for this life!

It's too monotonous, I hate it, I feel like I'm suffocating!

- I thought that life disgusted you. - Yes, but now things are different.

It won't happen to me again!

You don't think I can start again?

What company is it?

I asked you what company it is.

It's managed by the same guy as the last one...

... but this time they have money.

But if you don't like it, I can still tell them no.

Will he be there, too?

Come on, answer me! You know very well who I mean!

But it's not the same kind of show, it's much more refined.

And I'll have 4 acts as a showgirl.

- Have you seen him often? - Who?

Nello D'Amore!

- Once or twice... - Didn't you say that he was vulgar, disgusting?

But now he's changed! He was never nice to anyone before.

Last night he said he would take me out to lunch.

Isn't that amazing? He's never taken a girl out in his life!

Whenever he found one he liked, he slept with her and then...

With me it's different. The other day he wanted to walk me to a taxi.

Unheard of! Incredible, he wanted to walk you to a taxi!

To give you a comfortable life...

... I had to sell my mother's jewelry and take a mortgage out on the house...

... but I suppose that means nothing, it just passes you by unobserved!

The important thing is that he wanted to walk you to a taxi! What a man!

Please excuse me, I shouldn't have bothered you with such silly questions!

You can't possibly understand! You're the opposite of him!

See, he really enjoys being chivalrous!

- Especially with me. - Once you told me that you preferred to be mistreated.

- This Nello D'Amore, has he mistreated you? - What?

- Is that why you like him? - Me?

I said that? No, that can't be. He has never mistreated me.

Him, no. But I always can!

See?

I can strangle you...

... open up your chest and see what you have instead of a heart.

Nothing but a pile of rags!

A pile of rags!

Marcello!

You're hurting me!

You're here.

You were thinking of coming here one of these days anyway, weren't you?

Well, it's better this way. Better to do it now.

I don't want to see you walking around my house...

... dressed up, made up, singing, sighing...

... dirtying everything with your presence.

Go on, Anna. You're right.

In the end I didn't know how to give you a love full of spite...

... of suspicion, of selfishness, of pity.

That's right, pity. I was the one who needed it.

You're much better than I am.

You accept life for what it offers, what it's worth. What happens, happens!

You like to start all over again.

Go on, go...

It's the last week, then you can leave. I envy you, really I do!

- I don't want to leave, I want to stay with you. - No...

I shouldn't have taken you to my house that night, but I felt pity.

And pity is always a false sentiment, a sentiment that makes you pay!

Now get out of here, get out of my life!

- Get out of here, Anna! - Marcello, I want to stay with you!

Come on! Out of the car!

Marcello...

Marcello, don't go! I love you, don't leave me!

Who's that down there? Our showgirl?

- Who is that? - It's me...

- It's me, Anna! - Then come here, Anna. And hurry up!

Come on, let's start again.

Marcello!