Original subtitles

Digitally restored by the Swedish Film Institute in 2017.

It was on a May evening in 1945, the last spring of the war.

I had just been served my second drink, or maybe it was my third one.

I'd had some success with a novel, and a celebration was called for.

You might wonder who I am, but what's in a name?

I'm "the friend" in this story.

-Clerk! -Yes, Mr. Grandé?

-Where can I get cigarettes? -In the bar.

Did I say "the friend" in the story?

I might as well have said "the dunce in the puzzle."

For it was a puzzle.

A handful of pieces without meaning or connection,

and they weren't easy to fit.

Hi, Ragnar.

-Don't you recognize me? -Don't be silly!

How are you? Have a seat!

-Waiter! -Nothing for me, thanks.

Oh yes, a packet of Philip Morris, please.

It's been ages! What are you doing here?

-My wife and I are staying at the hotel. -You're staying here?

-Here you go, sir. -So, how are Frida and little Pil?

We're divorced.

Oh!

I see. So, you've got a new wife upstairs?

No…

It's more like…

It's more like I'm a kind of…

What's the matter, Martin?

What's wrong?

Nothing's wrong.

I get these dizzy spells.

It's hysterics, nothing more.

Ridiculous, isn't it?

I've never seen you as a hysteric. You were a kind and happy mommy's boy

who studied hard and lived off your parents. I'm so sorry…

Yes, "mommy's boy" is right.

It all ended in disaster.

You may have a bad memory, but I'm sure you haven't forgotten certain things?

No.

It's strange…

What does all this mean to you?

Nothing!

Or an inconvenient interruption in your otherwise pleasant evening.

Don't talk like that. We know each other better than that, and it's silly.

-Here you go. -Thank you.

I won't bother you anymore.

I'll go up to her now. Should I give her my regards?

Why? What do you mean?

-You know her. -I do?

But not very well.

-Who is it? -Rut.

So you're seeing her again?

It's funny. Strange things happen.

You might think so.

-Goodbye. -Bye.

Arne! The elevator!

-Clerk, call me a cab. -Yes, Mr. Grandé.

Miss, a cab for Mr. Grandé.

The evening was ruined.

-Can I have the check, please? -Certainly.

I suppose there is a junk room in one's subconscious,

where one discards unpleasant memories.

Martin had opened the door to this junk room,

and one monstrous memory after another came crawling through the half-open door.

Yes, the evening was indeed ruined!

Clerk! Have the Grandés left?

No, but a cab is waiting for them.

-What room are they in? -Room 212.

Clerk! My cab was called here. Are they coming?

One moment. Miss, call room 212.

-Where can I find room 212? -Over there. The first door on your right.

Martin?

Martin!

Give me the razor, you fool!

Clerk!

Call an ambulance! Mr. Grandé has… He's not well!

I don't give a damn about the cab! Call an ambulance. Hurry up!

Why did you and Frida get divorced? She forgave you.

That's right, she did forgive me.

I find that kind of heroism distasteful.

She built a hard shell around herself.

It could have been the other way around.

I suppose so.

Anyway, it didn't work.

The poison was in me.

-Rut? -Yes.

And you sought her out again?

There was no other way.

When I came back to her, she said she had been waiting for me.

She was delighted.

We were appallingly happy. Can you understand that?

Why did she leave you last night at the hotel?

You won't talk about it?

You must be exhausted.

Maybe I talk too much.

Goodbye, Martin. I'll be in touch.

-How is Martin doing? -Could be worse.

But don't go and see him. He needs peace and quiet.

And they won't let you in anyway.

Were you with him last night?

I'm sure he told you all kinds of things about us.

-Sure, some. -I can imagine.

But I've left him now. That's why he wanted to kill himself.

-I understood as much. -Did you now?

You want to come upstairs?

I need to go home and get some sleep.

Are you scared? Poor Ragnar!

I just wanted to show you something. Something exciting.

Come on now!

Do you have a match?

Well, what was the exciting thing you wanted to show me?

Come over here.

Look at that.

-Who is that? -The devil.

-Is it him? -Yes.

So, this story has a devil, too?

Most stories do, don't they?

Rut!

Why did you leave Martin last night at the hotel?

Curious? But I won't tell you.

But I will tell you something else.

I will tell you a story.

The story of the three chimney sweeps and the parade of the guards.

-It's great walking along to the music! -It sure is!

-I should bring my trumpet to work. -Sounds great!

Spring is in the air.

I think it's cold! Winter is coming, making the roofs slippery.

It's like playing in the orchestra. You're lifted above the humdrum.

-You're quite the poet, Svensson. -No, but I live a life of poetry.

-The most unexpected things happen to me! -You're not saying!

-We'll leave you here. Bye-bye. -See you at the rehearsal tonight.

-Hello. I'm here to sweep the chimney. -So I see!

-Come on in. -Thank you.

I don't live here. I'm just taking a bath at my mother's place.

-She's picking apples in the country. -Is that right?

And where is our dear little kitchen?

-Our dear little kitchen is through here. -I see…

-You'll manage on your own, won't you? -Oh, yes. I always manage.

-That's great. -Sure is.

I was about to have a bath.

Oh? You go and jump in, then.

-Would you like some milk? -Pardon?

-Milk? -No, I certainly don't!

How about a beer for the chimney sweep?

Now we're talking!

-Why did you do that? -It's such a lovely day out.

-You still don't have to slap my behind! -I couldn't help myself.

-Here you go. -Thank you.

Hey… Are you this black all over?

-Not as black as my face. -I don't believe you.

You don't? Want me to show you?

I'll pass. Another time.

Another time?!

You know what? I play the trumpet!

My, you're a fun chimney sweep!

-Any other skills? -Sure, I have plenty…

-But I'm married. -Too bad. Is she good-looking?

I'm not complaining.

But she's not as good-looking as you are. I can't say that.

By the way, would you like tickets for our concert on Saint Lucy's Day?

That sounds like fun! Thank you. Will you dress up as St. Lucy?

Me? Of course not!

I'll play the solo of my life on trumpet. I like everything powerful.

And when I blow that trumpet, I feel like the wind personified.

-That's pretty. -It is, isn't it?

-So, what do you do? -A bit of this and that.

-Like what? -I mostly paint.

-You paint? -Yes.

Is that right? That means we have something in common.

You could say that.

Well… Hey…

Well, I think I'm done in the kitchen, unfortunately…

So I'd better make my way to the roof now.

Hey, can I join you?

To the roof? No, you might fall off!

No way, no more than you might!

Finish your beer while I get dressed.

Well, well… A museum!

-You're damn pretty. -I think so, too.

-What are you laughing at? -You tell me!

-Did you paint this? -Yes.

This doesn't look sane. Crazy stuff!

But it does have that special something.

Just like you do.

But seriously, it doesn't seem sane.

-It isn't. -No, I guess not.

Are we going up to the roof now?

Sure. You said it, so…

Get a move on!

-Have you finished the job? -I sure have!

-So, come over here! -I'm coming.

-You're not really sane either. -You don't think?

-But you're happy! -I am!

And you have kind eyes. But besides that, you're ugly.

It doesn't matter when you're covered in soot.

-I bet you're strong as well. -I sure am. Have a feel!

Don't look at me like that. I'll lose my balance.

I have to go and play at the next place.

So, let's go!

-Be careful here. -Don't worry.

Here we go!

-You'll hold the ladder, won't you? -You bet!

You sure are strong!

-I'll have to finish some other day. -My mom will be home, so I think not.

-I guess there's nothing to do. -I guess so.

-Oh no! You've got enough soot on me. -All the more reason to have that bath.

-Goodbye. -Bye.

Well, I'll be darned!

And that was the tale.

A devil in a bowler hat and a trumpet-playing chimney sweep.

Those pieces are hard to place.

No, I'll let the story tell itself, at least for now.

Let's start at the beginning, with that family lunch at Martin's parents' house.

You think so, Pil?

-I want a cookie, Mom! -Finish your veal first.

I want a cookie now!

Signe, please bring the cookies.

Grandma will give Pil a cookie.

It's immoral!

Say thank you to Grandma.

Thanks, you old hag!

Well, out of the mouths of babes and sucklings, Gustav!

-I don't know where Pil picked that up. -It's no mystery.

Oh no, I'm quite innocent!

How can you talk to Grandma like that?

-You're a hag, too! -Pil, stop it!

-What's gotten into you, Pil? -He's at a defiant age.

It's not his age. He just knows that he's free to misbehave when he comes here.

-Calm down, Martin! -You spoil him rotten!

-I won't have any more of this! -I suppose I'll leave the table.

I'm spoiling Pil, am I?

No, not at all. Martin is just feeling low from studying for his exams.

I'm not feeling low!

Remember what you said when Pil came home from three days here? You said:

"She tried to kill you with strictness, and Pil with love."

So, this is how you thank us?

You young people really are cruel and selfish.

-After all we've done for you! -Calm down, Anna.

You eat our bread, Martin, and take it as only natural, but you shouldn't.

We won't stand for just anything. Don't trouble yourselves on our behalf!

Say that line of yours: "You don't get it, but once Gustav and I are gone, you will."

Mother, please!

-There, there… -No!

Was that really necessary?

Anna dear…

-You're an oaf, Martin! -Is it my fault that she's nuts?

No, but you should be better. Besides, you weren't loyal to me.

-Oh, please! Are you also mad at me? -Yes, I am!

When I'm trying hard to make us get along,

you shouldn't tell them stupid things that flew out of my mouth!

-You won't own up to your words? -No, I won't!

-And you're a jerk! -Are you going to cry now, too?

If you were the least bit fond of me, you wouldn't act like that.

I am fond of you. Frida… I love you!

Let me go!

Well…

I agree with you, about that thing you just said.

What a damn mess we made of it!

Let's buy her some flowers. That will make her happy again.

Let me see…

Come on, let's go and buy flowers for Mommy. We'll bring this.

Come on!

-How many? -Five, please.

-Do you want us to deliver them? -No, I'll take them myself.

-Do you sell lilies of the valley? -We do. Just a moment, sir.

-Here you go, ma'am. -Thank you very much.

Here are some beautiful lilies of the valley. How many would you like?

These are the only ones we have left.

Oh no, my heel!

-Thank you. -I could take you home in my car.

-You don't think I did it on purpose? -How should I know?

Good. Let's go up, then.

-That wasn't very far. -No, not very far.

What a curious number plate! 30070 - easy to remember.

Daddy, we forgot Mommy's flowers.

-So, you're buying flowers for your wife? -Yes.

Lilies of the valley? A lily-of-the-valley marriage.

Thanks for the ride.

-So, you're home now. -Yes, we are.

Turn around, Frida. Look at your remorseful men,

yearning for you to say that you have forgiven us and that you love us.

You don't look very remorseful.

-Here are your flowers, Mommy. -Thank you, Pil.

That's why we didn't come earlier.

Pil, I'll help you with your clothes.

-He'll manage. Won't you, Pil? -Yes.

Frida…

I love your cute nose.

I don't know why I'm blubbering.

I will be very nice. I'll dry the dishes.

-You're not well? -Yes!

The silver will be enough. You're sweet!

-That's no reason to cry! -Yes, it is.

I've been thinking up all kinds of nasty things to tell you when you showed up.

-So, tell me! -It's no fun now, is it?

-So, say something else. -I love you!

Put your damn vegetables in water. I'll bring dinner in.

Come on, Pil! You need to help Mommy with this one.

-So long, Ragnarius. -So long. See you at the seminar tonight.

Get out of the car immediately!

-One shouldn't forget to lock the doors. -True, but please get out.

Some idiot is looking at us. Couldn't we discuss it in the car?

He's my friend.

-He's coming home with me. -Is he?

I was. I've changed my mind. Goodbye.

-What do I do with her? -Do you know her?

No! Well, not really… I met her once in a shop, with Pil.

Go for a drive with her. It might be fun. See you!

-We can't stay here. -No.

-Where are you going? -Nowhere.

You really dislike me, don't you?

I happened to recognize the number plate and got in to play a trick on you.

-But you were just cross. -That's what I'm like.

-It was silly of me. I'm sorry. -I know your kind very well.

The kind who's always causing trouble. I noticed that already in the flower shop.

That thing with the heel wasn't on purpose!

It doesn't matter. I still want nothing to do with you.

-I know your name. -You do?

Your name is Martin Grandé, and you live in Äppelviken.

And you're a B.A. studying at the university.

For three years, you've been married to a girl called Frida.

-She got pregnant, so you had to marry. -I'll be darned!

I lied earlier. I've watched you leave several times after your lectures.

But today you forgot to lock your car, so all I had to do was get in and wait.

I was so happy when you…

And I'm so happy now, knowing that you want to be alone with me.

-How did you find out what my name is? -The number plate, of course.

We have to be smart. What's your name?

Rut.

We have to be damn smart, Rut. What happens between us can't get out.

We can't hurt anyone else.

I'm happily married, and I love my wife.

But you don't love me?

No, not one bit. I loathe you.

-But I might sleep with you. -What a cold thing to say!

Yes. You can't ask for anything else.

I won't ask for anything else, for now.

I live all alone, and I paint.

My mother lives further down in Östermalm. She's quite crazy.

-Her lover is the devil himself. -Disgusting!

Yes, it is. I talk about him sometimes, but don't pay it any mind.

You'll take me home now, but you can't come up tonight.

I'll see you on Monday at my place, seven o'clock.

On the fifth floor, "Rut Köhler."

-I'm not coming. -We'll see about that on Monday.

No, I'm not coming!

Martin?

Should we take Frida to the movies? It's Monday, and there are a lot of premieres.

-Frida can't leave Pil. -Of course, I didn't think about that.

-Frida? -What is it? I'm giving Pil a bath.

Ragnar had forgotten that he has a meeting at 7.

I'll take him into town. We'll be back. I'll go for a movie in the meantime.

What a nice surprise, to be left here all alone.

We'll soon be back.

Ragnar, couldn't you call up and tell them you've been run over or something?

Yes, I suppose I could…

You've always been unreliable!

Hurry up now, or you'll be late.

You seem keener to leave than Ragnar.

I just don't want to miss the movie, since I'm going anyway.

I'll pick up Ragnar on the way, and we'll come back for some tea.

Ragnar?

-Where are you going? -I've promised to meet my brother.

-I see. -Yes.

A curious thing to forget.

I'll go and start the car.

-We will be back. -Maybe I've run away by then.

-That would be a pity for Martin. -You think?

I'm sure of it.

Bye for now.

Come on, Pil.

-So, what now? -You'll get out. There's a cinema here.

I'll pick you up at 9.

Alright…

-Could you describe her to me? -I'm sorry?

Tell me what she looks like. I can't remember.

Her face, I mean.

I only remember her body.

Shoulders, breasts, hips, waist,

arms, legs, wrists, fingers…

-But all without a face. -But she was wearing a fur coat.

How can you know all that?

You're right. I guess I've just imagined it.

-What are you doing here? -I followed you.

So, you're spying on me?

-Martin… -I didn't see her. Are you happy now?

-But I'll bloody well find her! -Don't do anything you'll regret.

That was kind of you. I'll remember that sometimes.

You're obsessed! You can't handle this.

-We need to stop before it's too late. -And what if it's already too late?

Rut!

-You didn't show up. -Yes, I did.

-Too late. -I was held up.

You're lying. You wanted to let me wait, but you paid for it.

For three days, I've been at your door. I've phoned you and left letters.

-Where have you been? -On the moon. So, you tried to visit me?

-You know I did. -I do.

-When we're alone… -We won't be. I don't love you anymore.

-Stop laughing! -You look so funny when you're mad.

-Listen! -I'm listening.

-This is serious! -So am I.

You can't hit me now.

You'll see me tonight and tomorrow night,

and every evening, morning, day, and night after that. I will wait for you!

Are you crazy? Not here!

My mark.

Really cute. What a lovely design! You have great taste.

-You're expecting someone, I notice. -Is that right?

Isn't your perfume too strong, my girl?

-You think so? -Yes, but it might please him.

-What him? -You know, him.

-It's nothing. -But it will be.

-Tell me, how many men have you had? -That's none of your business, Mom!

-Or I'll ask you the same question. -Do you enjoy it?

-How about you? -No, I don't enjoy it.

-It's because you're getting too old. -Shame on you!

Is he young, the one that you're meeting tonight?

Yes, he's young. Very young.

-You sound like you're in love. -Maybe I am.

-Will you get married? -No. He's already married.

I see.

-I suppose you're awfully mean to him. -No, why should I be?

That's unusual!

I've decided to not do what you do to Victor.

What nonsense!

-You still have his portrait on the wall. -Is there anything wrong with that?

No, but it's still hideous.

Speaking of Victor, have you met him recently?

-I won't let him through the door! -Since when?

You have a disgusting imagination! And Victor is just as disgusting to me.

-So, you don't need to come prying! -My dear child…

You know what old wounds are like. You can't help picking at them.

-You understand? -Sure, just leave me out of it.

-No, this is quite an innocent visit. -Is it?

-I just wanted to ask if you need money. -Doesn't one always?

I'll say!

Will you never be provided for?

At least I won't prostitute myself, unlike some people I know.

I think I'd better leave now, before I get angry.

Goodbye, my girl.

The door is open, you fool.

Then, an exuberant celebration was held.

A shining feast, a night without limits.

So vast that I could slip it onto my little finger,

and so small that the universe vanished into it like a merry second.

I descended into the blackest darkness,

grabbed a bony hand, which I thought belonged to Death - and I laughed.

I was inside a light, so hot and so bright,

that I thought I was a moth on a flame on a fall night.

It was a feast too grand to be contained in a small room on Östermalmsgatan.

It was so immense that it rose up through the ceiling

and scraped against the ragged stars,

exploding them into a thousand pieces.

Good morning! 1547 45/38, R. Ekberg, for military service.

-Damn, is it time again? -You bet!

Yours truly just returned from four months' holiday in Kvikkjokk!

Twelve miles to the nearest lady's bike. Good morning.

Good morning.

Alright, I'm coming!

Hello? Well, good morning, Frida!

Yes… Martin crashed at my place.

We stayed out late, you see.

He got it, too? I have the same note in my hand.

We'll go and take it easy for a while, somewhere in Sweden.

Yes. Well, that is…

He just went down to get cigarettes.

I don't know if he'll come back up or go straight home.

Ragnar… Please don't laugh at me.

Martin has been acting so strange these last couple of days. Haven't you noticed?

Yes… Maybe you're right.

I mean, you see…

He's all I have.

What's this all of sudden?

Martin is head over heels in love with you!

But men have their whims as well, you know.

Maybe so. Goodbye.

Mommy…!

I want more formula!

Rut… Someone has been staring at us all night.

Really? Who?

That guy. Who is he?

Victor. Mother's Victor.

He doesn't look very nice.

-He looks like… I don't know what. -That's because he is.

-Take him down and put him away. -I guess I could do that.

I'll come back tonight.

Hello?

I see. One moment.

-For you. -For me?

Yes.

You don't have to look so scared.

Hello?

How the hell did you know…?

I'll be damned!

Thank you.

So, I've been drafted as well.

-I've been drafted. -So you said.

-What's wrong with you? -With me? Nothing.

Something's wrong, though.

Good for you that you've been drafted.

Yes, fantastic! I'll be gone for at least four months.

-Don't you understand that? -So what?

-Rut! -Don't grab me like that. It hurts!

-What will you do in the meantime? -I don't know.

-Is the boy jealous already? -I couldn't stand you cheating on me!

-You'll return to kill me and my lovers? -I will!

So, do it!

Return to me soon! I am not going to wait for you.

Not for long. Do you hear me?

-Martin! What are you doing? -I'm going back to Stockholm.

-You're out of your mind! -Maybe, but I'm doing it anyway.

You're mad! We're under military law.

-The guard will shoot if he sees you. -He won't.

-You'll be caught and serve years in jail! -Sure, but not any time soon.

-I won't let you desert, goddammit! -Oh, I think you will.

-Who is that? -Victor. Mother's Victor.

-Should I give Charlotte your regards? -No.

-A handsome young man. -And strong.

-And ill-mannered. -Go to hell!

I'm on my way there. Mother's Victor.

Congratulations, Rut. The boy is jealous. You've made a good choice this time.

Good day.

Forgive me for being ironic, young man. It's pure envy talking.

Don't hit me. I might break.

-What was he doing here? -Don't talk about Victor now!

-I wanted to stab him with my bayonet. -So, why didn't you?

-I wouldn't give you the satisfaction. -You're crazy!

I saw how you enjoyed the situation, just waiting for me to punch him.

-What was he doing here? -He was getting his painting.

-And why didn't he? -He was afraid you would kill him.

Let me go!

-Is this some third-degree interrogation? -I turn my back, and you bring a man here.

-He's no man. -How do you know?

Because Mother told me!

You deserted!

-What will happen now? -I don't know. I can't stay here.

No. Your portrait will be in the papers. Victor's memory for faces is amazing.

-Are we talking about that again? -No, we're not!

And while you sleep, I'll come up with a plan.

Sleep? You want me to sleep?!

You think I came here to sleep?

Do you want to go to a concert with the chimney sweeps tonight?

Whatever you want, as long as I can change clothes.

Look, that devil is staring at us again!

You're running riot, aren't you!

-Are you not coming back? -I don't know.

-Do you have to leave? -Of course I do. I've deserted.

Where will you go? Can I ask you that?

I don't know what it is. I simply have to.

I'm not myself anymore. Someone else has taken hold of me.

Someone said that I was ill.

I might be.

But I'm not in pain.

Or maybe it's so painful that I can't feel it.

Don't look at me like that, Frida!

Give Pil my love. Maybe everything will be alright.

This madness might pass. I don't know…

I might go back to normal.

-I'm so nervous! -About what?

What if he plays out of tune, embarrassing me and the whole family?

-I told you. And he practiced for months. -So what? One little note!

You're my fiancé, home on leave, and I'm a maid in Östermalm.

But we can't live there, because the mistress is a full-blown bigot. Got it?

-Why? -Because we need somewhere to live!

-Will this work? -You bet!

I know the guy who plays the solo. Wait by the corner, and I'll take care of it.

You did great!

-Just splendid! -Especially that high note!

-You got back down in the end! -And what feeling!

I almost had a lump in my throat.

Come back to my place for a drink and a bite.

-You're offering a drink?! -Two!

-I'll just go and find the wife. -See you later.

-Hey, chimney sweep! -Quiet!

-I just wanted to congratulate you. -Thank you. Goodbye.

-Do you have a room to let? -What do you mean? Are you mad?

You know… I saw that you were the wind when you played.

-I've thought a lot about you lately. -Why is that?

I've been longing for you. Don't you have a room to let? Just for a few weeks.

For my brother and me. We can't stay at home.

Mother hates us and has kicked us out.

-I'm not surprised. -What?

Damn, here comes Magda!

-The old lady? -Yes!

I could tell her a few things…

Well, do you have a room to let?

I'll speak to Magda about it. Bye.

Martin!

Martin!

Come on!

-We'll arrange it by the kitchen. -But we have no beds.

This is not your business. Go and get the coats.

We can't let them stay!

Sure we can! We'll put out some mattresses.

-Svensson. -Pålsson.

-I'll go and get Johansson and Östman. -Stay here. I don't know them.

-So, he's your brother? -Yes, he is.

-Not a striking resemblance, exactly. -We have different fathers.

We have a room to let, but it's not very big.

It's more of a dining recess, so it'll be a bit crammed.

-How much? -75, paid in advance.

-Great, we'll take it! -One needs to be economical these days.

-We're having guests tonight… -Oh, we won't bother you.

We'll go ahead and get dressed.

Here are your coats.

They're hardly brother and sister, but 75 a month will come in handy.

Exactly what I was thinking, my dear.

A toast and a sandwich sounds nice, doesn't it?

Magda, didn't I play decently, at least?

Out of tune.

Out of tune!

-Ragnar… -Yes?

Let's not beat about the bush. Have you heard anything?

-Do you know anything? -No. I only have a few days' leave.

I know it's been reported and that he's wanted by the police.

I think Martin is suffering.

I don't know why, but I can feel it.

-What do his parents say? -It's like they're paralyzed.

About the scandal more than anything, I think.

But I feel sorry for them.

-Who is that? -A friend from the university.

-She seems very cordial. -She is.

Hello, you old rascal!

Hey…!

-May I introduce you to Mrs. Grandé. -Grankvist.

-May I sit down? -Sure.

What's the literature course like these days?

Fine, thanks.

But we miss you and worry that you will get your feet wet or hurt yourself.

-I had my exam the day before yesterday. -Did it go well?

No, it didn't go at all. I failed.

What a lovely hat you have!

-You think so? -Yes, enchanting!

-Are you married? -Yes, I am.

My man and I are getting married, too.

A long engagement is a bit of a strain on the nerves - for the girl, that is.

He doesn't want to yet, but I'll soon get him.

-Do you cook? -A bit.

So do I. And I enjoy cooking, as long as I'm not forced to do it.

You will be, once you're married.

Yes, maybe so.

I have to dash. Bye, darling!

You need a shave!

Goodbye. It was nice meeting you. We should meet again and talk about the soul.

-Bye! -Bye-bye!

-Was that her? -What do you mean?

Don't be silly, Ragnar.

Yes, that was her.

-How did you guess? -Her perfume.

It was on Martin's clothes when he came home after crashing at your place.

-Give me a cigarette, won't you? -Sure.

I think you scared her. I don't know why, but I got that impression.

She was different. If I was a man, maybe I would be crazy about her too.

I'm not crazy about her! I don't even know her.

Her performance here was a farce, and I've been a bloody ass.

A very dear ass.

What do you want for dinner? You'll have dinner with me and Pil, won't you?

Yes, please.

-Some stewed fruit? -We're having dessert?

-You usually don't? -None for me, thank you.

I used too much potato flour.

-You look weird. -Do I?

-There is an ashtray. -It's full already.

-These aren't our things. -I know!

Damn radio, from morning to night!

I have a pimple on my thigh. It hurts.

Pimples are awful! I got it because I can't have a bath in the morning.

-You had hot water in town? -Yes, at home and at my mother's.

-What do you do in town all day? -I paint.

-You do, do you? -You have that weird look again.

-Why did you change your hair? -Because I enjoy it. Don't you like it?

-No. -Then don't.

-But maybe Victor prefers it this way? -Maybe he does.

-So, you admit that you're seeing him? -I'm not admitting anything.

-Stop it! -What?

Stop torturing me!

-You're enjoying it. -Am I? Poor Martin!

I'm sorry, but I have some business in town tonight.

That was weak. You can do better!

Don't be too sure that I'll come back.

Great! It's starting to wear off.

Are you meeting Victor? Just say it, and you'll hear how silly it sounds.

You have the upper hand now, but watch it, my friend.

Are you bluffing? I thought you were too clever for that.

I could tell your Frida where you are, for instance.

And one day she'll come here instead of me. Wouldn't that be fun?

Or Frida and your mom and dad might come to bring home the prodigal son.

Leave Frida out of this, please!

I met her.

I told her about us. Pretty detailed, actually.

-You're lying! -She looked like a lily of the valley.

Help!

-We've had enough of this! -Yes, we have!

Leave right this minute, or we'll call the police.

-No, you won't. -Shut up, you upper-class hooker!

That's rich! Did you forget what we did on the attic?

-It's a lie! -It's a damn lie!

Anyway, you need to leave now.

What in the world have you done? Come with me first.

You've made a sooty mess of it!

I have nothing against you, but your girl is nasty.

I don't mind if you stay, but she has to leave. You understand?

It's impossible, but thank you for not calling the police.

-Are you in trouble? -You could say that.

-You or the girl? -Me. Only me.

I think it's really the girl.

Thank you. I'll be alright now.

Hey, have a shot of this. You need it.

Thank you.

Cheers.

-Thanks. -Hey…

-You should probably leave. -They can stay the night.

-Alright, that's fine. -Thank you.

You forgot this.

Next time we'll kill each other.

Looking for anything in particular?

Santa Claus, maybe?

Or some Saint Lucy girl who was left behind?

Just a bit of this and that.

It's not exactly high society who stay in neighborhoods like these.

We'll, no nobility, of course…

-Shut up! -So gerne.

-Pardon! -I assure you that my hotel--

Sure. We will still have a look at these guests.

In the middle of the night? My guests are asleep now!

-I doubt that. We will wake them up! -But, lieutenant--

-Bring that. -All my guest's papers are in order.

We'll see. Now come on.

The police! A raid!

-What do you want? -Pardon!

The police! A raid!

-Well, did you like the coffee? -No!

But I want you to like it!

-Do you like gingerbread? -It's alright.

But you should like gingerbread!

Gingerbread should be the most delicious thing on earth to you.

Oh, you!

-What do you think of my playing? -Not bad.

Not bad?! You should find my playing wonderful!

Because it is wonderful!

Everything here is wonderful.

This room, the walls, the ceiling, the furniture!

Everything!

And do you know why? Because you're here.

The police! A raid!

-The police? -Pardon, if this is a bad time.

I wanted to warn you, in case a rendezvous with the authorities would be…

…unpleasant.

Can we get out without being seen?

Oh, you bet! It's one of the hotel's specialties!

Quickly put on your coats and wait for my signal.

Oh, pardon!

How exciting!

-What do we do now? -I don't know.

-So, where did they go after that? -Found a new hole, like rats on the run.

-Marie, what are you doing with my books? -I'm cleaning.

This hasn't been dusted since Christmas, and now it's May.

"Maria, Maria, spring is approaching, and the buds on the trees are bulging."

You're only making a jumble!

I asked you where they went!

-They moved into a castle. -They what?

Not a regular castle. One of those castles beyond the sun and moon.

With golden gates and diamond windows.

The ones you have to be insane to find.

-So, the police didn't find it? -No. Well, not for lack of trying.

But they didn't reckon with such sublime madness.

I'm so curious about that castle. Where was it?

I don't know. Somewhere on the outskirts of town.

I think Rut found it. It was a grand place.

A palace of iron and concrete, four floors tall.

It had vast halls and secret storerooms.

Silence crept through the place with silent footsteps.

But at the very top,

a strange wind whistled and whined under the rafters, day and night.

And through the dusty windows, one could see the black night

with its billion stars.

There is someone on the stairs.

There's someone…

This place is as busy as ever!

Happy New Year, rat bastards!

-Did you hear him? -Yes. We must have lost count.

We're living in a world beyond time and space.

-Happy New Year. -Happy New Year.

Whatever that means.

You hear that?

It's the wind. It's there day and night.

Maybe it's been locked in. You hear that? It's as if it was alive.

I'm going to draw it!

It has a long nose, and it twists around to bite itself in the rear!

-Draw us as well! -I will. This is the moon.

-It looks jealous. -That's because it is - of us.

Here's the night watchman. He has a rat on a leash.

-But what is that? -A neon sign!

It says, "Come see the great passion! Tickets are only 25 öre!"

The arrow points to this warehouse. But the night watchman keeps the crowd at bay,

shouting, "They are tired now. Come back some other time."

-But where are we? -Here!

Those stick figures? We have no faces.

Well, do we?

Let me look at you.

-You must be tired. -No…

Yes, you're tired.

-What will become of us? -We'll go somewhere.

Where to? Who will find the money for that?

You'll see. I'll come up with a plan.

-You and your plans! -One only wants to live.

That's what we're doing.

Don't you think that we're living more than most people do?

-Are you sad? -No. Are you?

No.

Actually, I'm very happy.

We could always come up with a plan.

Martin?

Martin!

Oh, it's you, Rut? Happy New Year! Do you want some tea?

-Hi, Rut! You want some eggnog? -No.

I want all the money you have on you.

Sure, pet! What do you want with all that money?

-None of your business. -What happens if you can't have it?

You know, but this time it's not for me.

-The young man? -Yes. We're going away together.

The one who is wanted?

I have a strong sense for physiques.

-He's a nice boy, but a bit hot-headed. -He's nice, is he? That's great.

-How much do you want? -Everything you have right now.

-I'm broke. -You're lying, as always.

Look for yourself.

And this? Several hundred!

-Where did you find it? -Victor is kidding!

He shouldn't.

-Dear Rut, come sit with us. -I'm in a hurry.

We have to talk about this now. Victor, put out the Christmas tree.

Rut, you are suffering from paranoia.

That episode that you keep harassing Victor about

has no significance for your life today.

My dear Rut, I wish you all the best in this world.

I've always loved you as if I was your father.

If your mother and I had been able to marry, everything would have been clearer.

You would have had a firm hand…

Across my breasts!

That's right, I did feel that. A cold, steady hand.

That is not true!

My child, I swear that it's all in your imagination.

You were very sensitive and highly-strung during those years.

Exactly. The whole thing is very simple.

You've had some erotic disappointments lately,

and you blame it all on this fictitious story.

All these years I've tried to put that evening behind me.

If the two of you had said, "Yes, it's true, Rut,"

maybe I could have done it, but now it's impossible.

I have an icy coldness in here.

It's made me obsessed! I can't escape it.

It's sitting there like a big, ghastly monkey without eyes.

We could take you to see a psychiatrist.

Sure, I know an excellent doctor.

You see? I'm willing to talk to others.

Surely, that proves my innocence?

No. Some loony-doctor can't help me.

Dear Rut, what will we do then?

There's nothing you can do.

Aren't you in love with this boy?

Yes! Or no…

It turns into something else, something awful and abnormal.

And it's my fault. And yours, Victor.

There's no point in discussing this if you won't be reasonable.

I remember that evening well. I was twelve.

How I admired the two of you! Mother was the most beautiful woman in the world.

And you, Victor, were the bravest and most handsome man I'd ever seen.

That's why it made me so happy that night when you came to sit with me.

Do you remember?

Mother was away, and I had you all to myself.

Sure, we had plenty of nice chats.

I remember that very well, but…

You held my hand, and I thought it was wonderful.

You told me we would all go to the movies the day after, a Saturday.

Then you told me about Paris. You had been there shortly before.

You had flown in an airplane.

And while you spoke, you started to caress my forearm.

My head felt so strange.

-We've heard the rest. -Stop it!

Suddenly your hand was on my breasts, completely still.

Your little finger and your ring finger pressed against my left nipple.

I can feel it anytime. I first felt a kind of heat inside.

It was unbearable.

Then slowly, the cold came.

I wanted to scream and cry, but I couldn't.

You talked about your flight, you're voice completely calm.

Then you got up and left.

I kept it to myself for a long time, but the pain and the cold grew stronger.

It was as if the hand was still there.

Do you remember, Mother, how you beat me when I couldn't take it anymore,

telling me that I was a liar or mad?

I'm sorry, sweetie. It was pure ignorance.

Since then, it's been there - always - that hand on my breasts.

Then Martin came, and I saw a chance to become free.

I kept struggling to cut loose, but I couldn't do it.

I will never be able to. I'll have to live with my blind monkey inside me.

I'll keep the money. Report me to the police, if you want to.

But I don't think you will. Goodbye.

-Happy New Year. -Take care, sweetie!

Rut!

Whatever the facts are… You won't mention it to anyone, will you?

Poor bastard! You have enough trouble.

Victor!

You didn't put out the tree.

-What are you doing? -Nothing.

-You seemed to be counting money. -So what?

-Where did you get it so quickly? -Turning tricks, what do you think?

-Did you steal it? -I've used blackmail.

Please let me be now. I will tell you, but right now I want to sleep.

-700 kronor? A hell of a lot of money! -Mother gave it to me.

-You're lying! -Victor gave it to me.

-What for? -I can't tell you. Just be happy about it.

-Why won't you say? -It's not important.

Whatever I did, I did for you.

-For me? -I don't have to run from the police.

I think this is where I leave you.

-Martin…! -No. I think I will leave.

Martin, please don't leave!

Why would I keep letting you torture me? I don't see why.

Why should I let you grow deeper inside me? You're a part that only hurts.

I'll cut you out and throw you away.

We've been complete strangers all along. We don't even know each other.

Goodbye, Rut.

Martin!

Don't leave me. Don't leave now. You are all I have.

I love you! I can't live without you.

I'll die. I'll kill myself.

Martin!

Oh no, I don't think you will.

It's possible to start over. It's always possible!

You will regret this.

You see? Now I recognize you.

You will regret everything!

You will regret this. You will!

-What happened after that? -My testimony exonerated him.

I found a decent doctor.

Even the military authorities understood that he wasn't in his right mind.

-And what then? -You keep saying "what then."

Of course I want to know how it ended.

Martin and I lost touch. He left the university and everything.

I haven't seen him since that New Year's.

And now it's spring. A lovely twilight spring!

"They met by the river, they met on the dune

They kissed so shyly, embarrassed by the moon"

-How about that? -If you let me dust your bookcase.

You'll drive me from my home! No dusting today. Didn't you read the papers?

Yes, I did!

"Ragnar Ekberg is no doubt a talented storyteller, perhaps even a poet."

That's right, I'm a poet - perhaps.

I have three 10-kronor-notes in my wallet. Today we celebrate!

Wonderful! But I have to go home and change.

Of course you do! Dress in silk, velvet, and pearls!

-I'll go and get a drink in advance. -Where?

-I'll follow the May wind, but I'll call. -You sure?

Poet's honor!

They met by the river They met on the dune

They kissed so shyly Embarrassed by the moon

This was where the May wind blew me. Here I had my drink in advance,

while Marie put on silk, velvet, and pearls.

This was where I found out that Martin had returned to Rut.

And it's here, in room 212,

where you will find the final piece of the puzzle.

The one I never found…

Arne! The elevator!

-Could you get me a cab? -Yes, Mr. Grandé.

Miss, a cab for Mr. Grandé.

Let's leave. The cab will soon be here. Here are your cigarettes.

So, if you're able to borrow that money, what will we do?

We'll go away from all this. From all the poor and ugly people.

But we're rich, with our hell and our heaven. It's the only thing that matters.

We'll go far away.

We'll walk in the mountains, go swimming in the rivers.

We'll lie on our backs on the mossy ground.

We won't have any thoughts. We won't look ahead.

Simply live every day.

We just need to cast off, put all considerations in an old sack.

Why didn't I think of that before? What a fool I've been.

Yes. What a fool you've been.

But what about when autumn comes, we're out of money, and the rain comes?

There will always be a way, as long as I have you.

-You really love me now. -Yes, I love you!

I love you so much that I won't even ask if you love me.

Martin, when you came back to me, do you remember that you were afraid?

Yes, I was afraid.

I'm still afraid, but I don't think about it anymore.

-Why are you afraid? -Because you're not the same.

-Not quite. Not like before. -That's just your imagination.

Maybe I'm the one who changed.

Before, I just wanted your body. Now I love you.

-Why do you smile? -It makes me happy to hear you say that.

-Why do you smile? -You sound so scared.

-Yes, you are scared! -Stop it, Rut!

-Yes? -Mrs. Grandé. This is the clerk.

Your cab is waiting.

I see. I'll be right there.

-Who was that? -Take a guess.

Stop this nonsense! Who was it?

The chimney sweep. We're going to a movie.

We met on the street, and he said he would like to meet.

I told him to call, and now he did.

-You're not leaving. -Yes, I am.

-You're not leaving. -Yes, I'm leaving.

And I wasn't going to tell you that I'm leaving for good.

-But I feel sorry for you. -Rut!

Goodbye, my friend.

Do you remember the warehouse and how dramatic I was?

Do you remember how I begged you, crying for you?

I loved you then, and you just left.

Be as strong as you were that time. I'm sure you can be.

Because the two of us are really complete strangers.

Maybe it could have been different, but you killed the chance that time.

-But I came back. -So you did.

Like one comes to a whore, and I received you like one.

But now you love me! I can see it in your eyes.

-And it makes me happy. -I don't believe you.

-I don't believe you. -Yes. I'll be what others make me.

-And now I'm leaving. -Rut! You can't!

Hysterics won't help you. But be aware of how it feels to be left alone.

-If you go, I'll kill myself. -Go ahead.

If you had done it earlier, you could have spared us this farce.

Don't touch me!

But I love you.

I love you.

Rut!

-Where is room 212? -Over there. The first door on your right.

Don't worry, my boy.

Now that you're feeling better, you will soon be right as rain.

Everything will be well. Frida is doing well, and so is Pil.

He's very precocious!

But I didn't come here to talk about that.

I thought I would suggest a trip to America.

You, Frida, and Pil.

At my expense, naturally.

I'm sure it will all work out.

You could study, and you might enjoy traveling the world a bit.

At your age, I had already spent a lot of time abroad.

So, don't be sad, my boy.

Frida is doing well, and Pil is very precocious.

Well, I told you as much just now.

As I said, everything will work out for the best.

As long as you get well… everything will be well.

You don't have to wait for the train to leave.

No, of course.

Well…

Bye then, Martin. Good luck over there.

-Remember to give Pil my love? -I will.

-You'll write, won't you? -Of course I will!

-Why isn't the train leaving? -It will soon.

Passengers on the 10:05 for Gothenburg, please take your seats.

-Frida… -Yes?

For Pil's sake, right?

We've discussed it a lot, but we can't say anything final right now.

No, not now.

But maybe later, when I return from America.

When I come back home. For Pil's sake, at least.

Yes, Martin.

Because you and Pil…

The two of you are all I have.

-You'll take care, won't you? -Yes, Martin.

I won't stand in the window and wave. I won't! Goodbye.

Farewell, Martin!

Farewell… Martin.

Give Pil my love!

He's gone now.

I saw that.

-You won't throw yourself under the train? -No.

Or cut your wrist or some other dramatic thing?

-I'm sorry, that was silly of me. -No, it was only natural.

-You love him, don't you? -Why do you ask?

He will return.

-Not to me. To you. -You only say that because I wish it.

No, I know it. That's just how it is.

Goodbye.

-What a peculiar situation! -Are you still here?

-Of course! I'll walk you to the bus. -What do you think she'll do now?

-Try to kill the monkey with someone new. -The monkey?

Yes, but it's a complicated story - and a long one.

I feel sorry for her.

Dear Frida, you're the same as ever!

Good thing there are people like you.

Subtitle translation by: Richard Schicke