Original subtitles

How does he know where he's going?

This is the first time he's ever been around here.

We should reach the river soon, the boy at the inn told me.

That's just great, for what we paid he could have sent us to Hell.

Just how many hotels have been robbed by us, Lucas?

Don't talk nonsense. I gave that boy a generous tip.

A tip? You said you were broke.

And speaking of money Lucas, where's our salary?

- I've got it. - What? The money?

- Don't interrupt. - I get it.

I had an idea.

Listen to me.

You know what an idea is, Katia?

No.

You see, when someone says they've had an idea...

It's as though they've...

It's an idea, that's all.

Incredible, I'd never have thought it.

This is going to be the most sensational act in our review, believe me.

Listen carefully, I'll set the scene.

A frightening tale of intrigue in the jungle.

Vera, you're wandering through the forest, desperate.

You're about to lose all hope.

When all of a sudden something appears...

- Who do you think appears? - Who?

A gorilla. An enormous frightening gorilla.

That jumps on Vera to take her away to its horrid lair.

Then Ilona, Erica, and Magda storm into the scene...

dressed as savages!

Hold on, what do you mean? Then what do I do?

- What? - What do I do?

The gorilla.

Lucas, no one will see my legs.

You know they're my best strength.

Everyone looks at them. Even Frank does!

Right, Frank?

Sorry, I shouldn't have.

It was my fault.

- What the devil's going on? - The road's blockaded.

- What's going on? - A landslide, the road's blocked.

You're better off going to the village inn.

Yes, with a bill to pay.

Where does that lead to?

I wouldn't advise it, for all the gold in the world.

You can ask anybody. No-one around here will...

- Why? It looks perfectly fine. - It isn't the road, lady.

You should turn back, it's better.

Rubbish, it has to lead somewhere, a farm, a house, a roof.

- It leads to Castle Kernassy. - A castle!

Did you hear that? A castle!

A real castle, they can't turn us away.

I've decided, step on it Frank. Destination: Castle Kernassy.

Look over there, there's a bridge.

Damn, you think you'll make it?

I don't think so, but life's so strange at times.

Look, there's a gate over there.

We've arrived. Come on, everyone out.

- Damn it, it's closed. - Someone will come.

Who can hear in this wind? They're probably all asleep.

What do we do then?

- How do I know? - We can't stay here all night.

Vera!

- How did you do it? - I don't know.

It just happened naturally.

Really?

Come on, let's not waste time. Follow me!

Look at that!

- Do you think they have a butler? - Don't be foolish.

Let's hope someone's there, it seems so deserted.

How nice!

- What was that? - Calm down, they're just dogs.

You see, Vera isn't scared.

Come on, let's go, it's nothing.

Lucas!

Lucas!

What's going on?

Who are you? The caretaker?

That's none of your concern. You'd better turn back.

Can you believe it? It's like they're all trying to get rid of us tonight.

- Is there anyone in the castle? - No one! There's no one there!

Look, Lucas!

So there's no one there!

You must forgive us, we didn't mean to disturb you...

but we were surprised by the storm and the road's blocked.

- Can you put us up for the night? - Who told you about us?

It isn't our custom to receive guests at the castle.

I told them to turn back. You heard, go away!

- It's not for me to decide, come in. - Come on, you heard her.

This is impressive! Not bad!

Lucas, look at that table!

What if if I danced on it in my red dress?

- I'd tell you to sit down. - What's the difference?

Wait here, please.

- I'm standing in a real castle. - It gives me the shivers.

Everything gives you the shivers.

Even that colonel in the army who sent you flowers at the theatre.

Actually, he was a general.

- And no one ever sends you flowers. - Like I care about flowers!

Vera.

What are you doing?

Me?

- I was looking for a cigarette. - In there?

Gentlemen.

I guess you're Count Kernassy.

I mean the master of this establishment.

We're sorry to disturb you, but we were caught out by the storm...

and we thought--

If you want to rest before you resume your journey...

my governess will attend to you immediately.

To be honest, we thought we could spend the night in the castle.

You see, the nearest inn is very far.

I mean it's hard to get to, and we thought...

I am very sorry.

It isn't my custom to accommodate strangers within these walls.

I'm afraid you'll have to look elsewhere.

You can't send us away like that.

It's inhumane.

We've been travelling for hours in that uncomfortable coach.

Very well. Miss Balash, prepare their rooms...

and prepare something hot for them.

I invite you to respect the traditions of this house.

Once you're in your rooms you mustn't leave them for any reason.

No matter what you hear, and not before dawn.

It's the only condition if you wish to stay.

Gentlemen, pleasant rest.

Take care of the coach, Frank.

This way, please.

Wake up, Vera!

Excellent.

I can't say I like her, but she knows how to make tea.

It's true, and we don't have to worry about the bill.

A real castle. Just think, it's so nice.

They won't believe me when I tell them.

I don't know what you find so exciting, it seems like a museum.

What are you complaining about?

We would have spent the night on the coach.

Hey, guys, look at this ashtray.

- It's pure silver. - Well I don't like it.

What does he mean, we can't leave the rooms until dawn?

What kind of man is that damned Count?

Let's try to behave properly for once.

He was so kind. It doesn't happen often.

Vera's right, be on your best behaviour.

As for me, I hope the storm lasts as long as possible.

We've got free board and lodging here.

But that man by the road warned us not to come here.

There must be something behind it.

You shouldn't listen to gossip like that.

He's a count with a distinct appearance, he's a real gentleman.

All great men are a bit eccentric.

If you ask me, he's very attached to family traditions.

Tell me, Frank.

When you braked it was because of my legs, right?

Don't you ever speak?

- Do you think he's married? - Who?

- Why him, the count. - Are you interested?

That's a good one. Countess Katia of the French Can-can.

You'd look like a horse in evening wear.

Leave her alone. Don't torment her.

He always takes it out on the weaker ones.

Go to Hell.

I'm starting to feel sleepy. Goodnight.

Goodnight.

It would be a pleasure.

We're honoured to let you stay in the dwelling of our glorious ancestors.

Sorry, I meant...

Goodnight.

It's you.

Forgive me, I didn't mean to frighten you.

- What were you doing here? - I wanted to see you.

See me?

You don't think it's improper spying on me through the bedroom window?

You're probably right.

My actions might have given you this impression.

The truth is I find the presence of strangers in the castle uncomfortable.

I behave as though I'm still living in solitude.

I'm sorry, I didn't mean to offend you.

I also understand how you feel.

- We're nothing but intruders. - Don't say that, I...

It's hard to explain, but if I decided to let you all stay...

it's only because you were there, that's the only reason.

I don't understand how I could have pushed you to...

Why are you looking at me like that?

Forgive me, but you're so different to all the others.

That's an excessively conventional approach for a man like you.

Who are you?

A woman like any other.

- But you can call me Vera. - Why did you come to this castle?

Where have you come from, Vera?

From a village beyond the hills.

I don't remember the name. The road was blocked, and...

Yes, I know, I was referring to your family.

My family starts and ends with me.

My parents both died a long time ago.

A story like any other, boring.

You must leave this place, before it's too late.

I mean, tomorrow morning you'll leave as soon as the sun rises.

- What's wrong? - Nothing, don't ask questions.

I beg of you to make your departure the first thing tomorrow morning, please.

Now, if you'll excuse me... I'll see you in the morning.

I hope that next time you wanna see me, you'll come to the door.

It would be so much simpler.

Do you mind if I stay with you a little? I can't seem to fall asleep.

It must be the storm that's making you so nervous.

What were you talking about?

I don't mean to be curious, but I was awake, and I saw you from my window.

Nothing in particular.

He seems worried, but I don't know why.

- Perhaps he feels too lonely. - He's fascinating, isn't he?

I've always dreamt of someone like that.

Lucas is right I guess. When I talk it always comes out wrong.

You know they also have showers! The governess told me.

I didn't think castles had bathrooms.

Perhaps we should do as he said. Don't leave the room.

Nonsense, a shower's just what I need to relax.

It's very cold, can I borrow your coat?

Take it, but hurry.

What do you think? It might be an idea for the next magazine.

As long as there is one.

I won't be long. Bye!

Kitty! Kitty!

Open up! Open up!

Katia. Erica.

What's going on? Why are you crying?

Magda, Ilona... Vera!

Frank!

She's dead.

How did it happen?

She must have fallen from one of those windows up there.

Perhaps she slipped in the dark.

- She was a very curious girl. - That's all we need!

We're already in a real mess.

Why the devil was she wandering around at night?

She wasn't what you'd call intelligent, but she was a good girl.

It isn't safe here!

Let's get out of here, this place is cursed!

Be quiet!

What do we do now?

We have to do something.

Poor Katia.

What happened to her?

She fell from up there. She's dead.

A tragic accident, it should never have happened.

That's why I warned you.

Some areas of the castle are dangerous.

Bring her inside.

- What do you want? - We need to bury her.

It doesn't concern you. The Count will decide.

- The dead must rest in peace. - Go!

And remember you must never enter the castle.

The first thing I want to do is express my deep regret...

for what has happened.

If you don't remember, I gave you a clear warning.

You weren't to leave your rooms during the night for any reason.

That poor girl has paid dearly for her disobedience.

- I can't explain it. - What?

Nothing... nothing.

I believe we should report this to the authorities.

Indeed.

But in my opinion that's impossible for the moment.

What do you mean?

I've just been informed that the bridge is flooded.

Which means you're practically stuck in this castle.

You mean we couldn't leave even if we wanted to?

That's more or less what I'm saying.

- No, I can't stay here another night. - Don't exaggerate.

Katia's death has shaken us all up, that's all.

It's Frank that we should be thinking about.

Don't worry about me. We have to bury her.

At least until this is all over.

If that's what you want, my caretaker will assist you.

Gentlemen.

Please excuse me.

I believe one of us should say something.

- To be honest, it's the first time... - Words don't mean a thing.

- It's how we feel that counts. - Right, words don't count.

- There was something about her. - She was always loyal to me.

Once, a guy who liked me wanted to date me, but he--

She'd like it if we remembered her for what she really wanted to be...

- The best legs in Europe. - So it's true you looked at them.

Amen.

I think we'd better go in, the weather isn't looking good.

You're not coming with us, Vera?

I'll be right there.

Alright, let's go. 1,2,3,4..1,2,3,4...

Come on Magda, put a little life into it.

And you, don't clump around like that. You oughta get a little grease.

You're dead on your feet. C'mon... 2, 3, 4...

1,2,3,4... 1,2,3,4...

Erica, go on. This is a good moment for it.

Play me a blues will you Frank?

Hey, what are you doing?

What's the matter, you don't approve?

I suppose you'd rather hear Chopin's Funeral March?

Something wrong, Miss Balash?

This kind of exhibitionism is inappropriate in a place like this.

I admit it, but the girls have had a nasty shock...

and it's the only way to take their minds off it.

- I'll inform the Count. - No need, we already have.

Come on, we need to be ready for the next show.

Okay, let's go.

Raise those legs, Erica.

- I'd like to rest for a while. - Okay.

Are you falling asleep? Let's loosen those muscles.

Surprised?

Who is that woman?

Margherita Kernassy, an ancestor of mine.

- She lived over 100 years ago. - But she...

The similarity is extraordinary.

I noticed it the moment you arrived at my castle.

That's why you asked me those questions the other night.

That's why.

And it's also why I want you to leave as soon as possible.

I don't understand.

There's something about the way you behave with me that...

Vera, please.

Don't ask me any questions.

Soon you'll be far from here and you'll forget everything.

It's for the best.

Then tell me about Margherita.

Who was she? What do you know about her?

It was a very sad story. She had an unhappy life...

and her death...

Vera, I...

Don't misunderstand me, perhaps the solitude has changed me...

and it's made me unreasonable, but I'd still like to...

- I want you to know something. - What?

I was waiting for you. I knew you'd come one day.

It's foolish, I know.

But looking at that painting I felt Margherita was alive.

Alive in someone else who was somehow tied to my destiny.

You must think I'm crazy. Forgive me.

No! Please, you're not crazy at all.

I feel it. I can't explain it either.

But I feel it.

Yet it all seems so strange.

You say you really want me...

and at the same time you want me to leave.

I don't understand.

You can't understand. You just have to believe me.

Stay away from me, I can only bring you harm.

- Nothing more. - No, I don't believe you.

There's something in you that gives me faith and strength.

Something no one's ever made me feel before.

I've lived a torrid existence.

In a world full of tiny wriggling worms.

It's different with you.

It's like we've met before.

Your face, your gestures, they all seem so familiar.

Vera, I'm begging you, have faith in me.

Get away from this castle as soon as you can.

The Kernassy's can bring only destruction, ruin and violent death.

Gabor, please!

Look at this crest, it belongs to our family.

Take a good look at it.

A crest like any other? No, it isn't!

It's a crest that drips blood!

Blood from generation to generation.

We're cursed, Vera. Cursed!

Gabor!

Sorry, Lucas, I'll be right there.

- We have to rehearse this number. - Okay, I understand.

You should go.

Who's there?

Gabor.

Gabor, listen.

What is the meaning of this?

Where's Katia?

Gabor.

What are you doing here at this hour?

I..

- Who removed Katia's body? - Go away, we don't want you here.

Dalton, return to your post.

But he was there! I saw him with my own eyes.

I told you to go back to your post, obey.

Listen here, I've had enough of all these mysteries.

Katia's body has disappeared. You've removed her from her grave.

You have a terrible defect. You're too curious.

I advise you not to go down this path, you may regret it.

Yes? I'll talk to the Count in the morning.

Do what you want.

Goodnight.

- Good morning everybody. - Good morning.

Well, what have we got for breakfast this morning?

Tea and crumpets, Lucas.

Crumpets? What crumpets?

There aren't any left, are there Frank?

I see.

You're not on a beach you know!

You might at least dress for breakfast.

Don't you ever stop eating?

I'm stocking up for the next tour.

We'll be back to eating tagliatelle and salami soon.

We must think hard.

There's something dark in here.

- Your face! - This is no laughing matter.

Have you already forgotten about Katia?

If you want some pastries why don't you ask her?

She's insufferable.

It was a shock for her, she should have taken a smaller dose.

Good morning, everyone.

Where can I find your master? I must speak to him.

He's resting at the moment.

I have orders not to disturb him.

- Then I will. - Hold on.

If Vera wants to talk to the Count then she'll have her reasons...

and you're certainly not going to stop her.

Now bring me some more of those pastries.

Gabor!

Gabor!

Gabor, where are you?

Katia!

Vera... Vera!

Talk to me!

Enough! Stop it!

I said stop!

It was terrible!

It's over now.

What happened to Katia?

What is the meaning of all this?

Please, say something!

It isn't easy.

Things happen in our lives that are impossible for us to explain.

Things that can't be shared with others...

without running the risk of being misunderstood.

- But Gabor, I... - Listen to me.

I'd have preferred to distance you from this horror...

but destiny thought otherwise.

So I'll do my best to make the truth less painful.

But you must promise me you won't tell anyone.

No one, you understand? What I'm about to tell you.

I promise, Gabor, I have a lot of faith in you.

But I must know, don't you see?

I understand finding Katia's body here was a heavy blow for you.

I was the one who had her exhumed.

It's difficult to tell you...

but I'm afraid your friend didn't die accidentally.

What do you mean?

Try to remain calm.

You're a brave woman, don't make this harder than it already is.

Don't worry about it. Please, continue.

Vera...

Humanity is afflicted by an infinite number of evils.

Some of which still escape scientific reasoning.

Among them there are some that really are horrible.

So much so that the human mind would refuse to accept them...

if it completely knew the real effects.

That's why I've spent years conducting experiments in my laboratory.

Research into one of the greatest scourges of humanity.

What is it?

That the average human mind refuses to believe that they exist,

and rejects them as only superstition.

An evil with the power to turn men into bloodthirsty animals.

An evil that fuels its immortal power with the lives of its victims.

Then Katia...?

She didn't fall from the castle if that's what you want to say.

Somebody murdered her.

But why? She'd never been here before, we all loved her.

Perhaps Katia wasn't the intended victim.

Maybe something she was wearing deceived...

She was wearing my coat.

That's why I begged you not to leave your room at night.

It's terrible.

But I don't understand, why me?

Vera, I can't explain it all now. It's a long story.

For years I've been engaged in a desperate fight against evil.

I must win if I want to save my soul.

Your presence.

Meeting you has given me new strength.

New energy.

With your help I'm sure I'll succeed.

Please, stay by my side.

- But what can I do? - Believe in me.

Love can perform miracles. Have faith.

Above all, repeat nothing to anybody.

And you must tell nobody what I've just said.

And my task will be easier.

I believe you're sincere. I feel it!

I won't ask any more questions.

I just hope I really can be of help.

Only...

Only don't run away when you see me from now on.

As you did when we met last night, in the park.

Last night?

Sure, don't you remember?

When I found Katia's body...

You mean you saw me last night?

- I don't understand. - Vera...

For the love of God, just remember this...

You're not in any danger during the day.

I swear on my life.

But when night falls on this damned castle...

Lock yourself in your room, don't let anyone in, not even me.

Listen carefully, not even me, even if you hear my voice.

- What does it mean? - Please, you promised.

Okay, you're right.

Goodbye.

Where the devil is Frank? Why isn't anyone looking for him?

Ilona went to look for him. That was 5 minutes ago.

Hey, Lucas...

Impressive, French cognac.

I get the impression the castle will be completely dry by the time we go.

What are you trying to insinuate?

I'm not insinuating, dear, that's a fact.

- Listen to me, Frank's disappeared. - Disappeared?

You're worrying about nothing. Have you checked his room?

He's not there, I looked everywhere. I tell you he isn't in the castle.

He probably went for a walk. Relax, he won't get lost.

Speak of the devil. What did I tell you?

Finally! We looked everywhere for you.

- Where have you been? - Around.

I had a look at the river.

It's true, the bridge has collapsed and the water's rising.

It's completely flooded.

It's not so bad here.

I met some people, farmers who live around here.

I thought the area was deserted.

- They told me some strange things. - About the castle?

It's nothing new.

I know, they're just stories, but you can't deny the facts.

What do you mean? What facts?

Some time ago a girl disappeared, a farmer's daughter.

They eventually found her hidden in some bushes by the river.

Dead.

People say strange things happen in this castle.

They talk about a monster that goes around looking for victims at night.

Come on, I've never believed in stories like that.

It's kids' stuff.

- Are you trying to scare us? - I don't believe in ghosts either.

Only stories like that often serve to hide a murderer.

Katia's death wasn't an accident, someone pushed her, I'm sure of it.

You might think I'm crazy...

but I'm telling you there's a murderer hiding in this castle.

Well I think I'm right, and one way or another I'll avenge her.

I could be wrong, but I think something is about to happen again.

Something I'm not looking forward to at all.

Why won't you listen to me? You know I love you.

That I love you more than life itself.

But you don't care about me. You don't care about my lips...

About my kisses. I don't know why?

Why don't you use Candy Vaseline toothpaste?

Goodnight, my love.

Why are you looking at me like that?

Didn't you always say you liked me?

I'm in your room now.

Because I want to be near to you.

I was always unfriendly to you.

Somehow you never used to be attracted to me.

Perhaps you don't like me.

I'm here now. Tell me you want me.

Tell me you want me.

Go on, say it.

- Who screamed? - It was Lucas!

Lucas! Lucas! Lucas! Wake up!

See? It was just a bad dream. All this fuss for nothing.

I didn't dream it, it was real.

- What was real? - Come on, Lucas, grow up.

Will you tell us what happened?

Katia... I mean, a woman came to me.

I thought that would have another effect.

Let's go to bed.

Calm down, dear, in this regard they're a bit dangerous.

You're right, it must have been a nightmare.

A nightmare.

The Count wanted me to inform you that tomorrow morning, not far from here...

there will be a ferry arriving.

So you'll be free to continue on your journey.

Will I see him again before we leave?

I think so.

Margherita!

Margherita!

Open up!

Open up!

Carla... Calm down.

It's nothing.

Where am I?

I told you to calm down!

- I want to go away! - Of course, but not now.

You need to rest.

You've done nothing but toss and turn.

- What do you mean? - You had a really high fever.

You've been restless all night.

All night?

- But I... - You talked about strange things.

Monstrous beings, or things like that.

You must have a fervent imagination.

- Now rest. - You mean I haven't left this room?

Of course, I haven't left you for a moment.

- I watched over you all night. - It's all so confusing.

Where's Lucas?

- Where are the others? - Outside.

They got up early to meet the rescue team.

Don't worry, they'll be here soon.

Now think about getting some rest. I'll bring you some tea.

Why her as well? I don't want her.

- Let her go. - Get out of the way.

- It's not for you to decide. - I don't want her with us.

I'm by your side now. Isn't that enough?

Obey. Take care of him, hurry.

- What else do you want? - Send her away.

You'll never take her place. Never!

I've waited years for her. For years, do you understand?

Since the day death took her away from me.

You are mad!

She isn't your woman. Margherita is dead.

And she's never coming back.

- Take me in her place. - Go away!

Go away!

You'll never take her away from me.

No one can. I'll make her immortal!

You're wrong, because I'll kill her!

- Where are you hiding Vera? - Stay out of this, go away!

Listen, that woman doesn't belong to your time, and you can't kill her.

Your words don't make sense. You'll never understand.

It's her, I recognised her, and she'll take her place next to me.

Go away, Gabor, if you value your life.

You can't do it, you'll ruin everything.

I'm begging you, you must listen to me.

I can give you back the peace, that rest you've been waiting for.

I've found the formula I was looking for.

It's just a matter of hours, do you understand?

Your stupid experiments don't interest me.

Nothing that is mortal concerns me any more.

There's nothing that connects our existence.

And yours is but a larvae of life.

A brief journey in the obscurity of ignorance.

- You don't understand. - But I can save you!

Save me? From what?

What you vulgarly consider an illness?

It's the greatest conquest of existence!

It's the supreme joy!

Now go. I've heard enough.

You won't touch her, I'll stop you...

with all the strength of my being.

You asked for it, Gabor!

How are you, master?

From now on you don't need to worry about me any more.

It's all over.

I'm glad, master, for you and the lady.

Everything's fine now.

- Please take care of her. - Of course, don't worry.

Drink this, you'll feel better.

Thank you.

- It was horrible! - Please, calm down.

There's no reason now.

He's dead, isn't he?

I knew it.

It had to happen sooner or later.

I prayed today. I prayed a lot.

And the Lord listened.

Few believe in the power of faith...

but it's the most powerful weapon against evil.

- So you knew? - Of course.

My task wasn't easy.

For Count Gabor it bore heavily on his conscience.

For years he's racked his brain on his research and experiments.

The Count knew the fastest and safest way to destroy the curse...

but he didn't have the courage to pierce the heart of someone...

who still belonged to his family.

Even if he wasn't a human being any more.

He would have felt like he was committing a crime if he killed him.

Poor Gabor.

And I thought...

I know.

As I said, my task wasn't easy.

I also had to watch Dalton and stop him entering the castle.

Poor thing.

He likes the Count so much he wanted do It alone...

and kill that monster.

- How are you feeling now? - Better, thanks.

Then what are you waiting for?

- I don't understand. - Why don't you go to him?

He's there, in his room, and the feeling of guilt is torturing him.

I know him well. He's lonely.

Terribly lonely, and he needs someone to help him forget.

He loves you! Don't you get it?

You're such a fool.

I don't know why I'm wasting my time telling you this.

Thank you.

Vera!

Thank you.

Thank you, Dalton.

I still have some things to do here.

But as soon as I've sold the castle I'll come running to you.

Into your arms.

Wait for me, Vera.

Wait for me!