Original subtitles

Four Peter's Ships with sturgeon, and six Bronze Horsemen with game.

Our game pies are becoming popular.

It's because they're on offer now, two for the price of one.

You should've been a pharmacist.

All thumbs and no fingers…

-And the bells? -I forgot.

Next time it'll cost you your job.

Into the oven.

Well now, let's give you that golden brown crust.

That's a fine pie.

To the shop.

Le Grand Pirogue delivery at your service.

Yes, delivery for noon. 32 Mokhovaya St.

Merchant Terentev? Has he placed his Christmas order yet?

Yes, for 50 pies.

Who's the fastest out of you lot?

You, come here.

32 Mokhovaya St. You have 20 minutes.

Excuse me.

Hey, buddy.

Move it, you lazy horse!

Excuse me.

Make way! Coming through!

-What happened? -They closed off everything again.

…I said to him, "With a voice like yours, everything comes out as nonsense."

So that's that…

Would you look at that scoundrel! Grab him!

Stop, you!

Young people these days…

Get up.

Everyone, remain calm.

And keep the noise down!

Think you're above the law?

What law would that be?

Well, it's obvious. They told us to wait, so we're waiting.

We're turning back now!

Lunch is served, Your Excellency.

Thank you, Fyodor.

Darling…

Miss Jackson. Alice. Be seated.

We received an invitation to the Grand Duke's New Year ball.

The theme of the ball will be traditional Russian style.

-Is patriotism back in fashion? -Indeed it is.

I already made a deal with the Mariinsky Theatre costume artist.

He will make our costumes.

We'll be the talk of the night.

"To mark the turn of the century, the gas lamps of the Eiffel Tower

will be replaced with electric lights."

The French are still hoping to bring back their lost grandeur,

but I'm certain they won't succeed in the 20th century. Mark my words.

At least women in France can go into higher education.

Alice, are you still going on about that? This is so tiresome.

Universities produce nothing but free-thinkers and troublemakers.

A respectable lady has no business in such establishments.

Excuse me, Miss Jackson…

Note, Alice, we heard the opinion of an educated European woman.

Now let's close this subject once and for all.

What does Queen Victoria have to do with this?

Something just touched me under the table.

Perhaps it was a spirit…

Or an astral body.

Alice, haven't I told you not to bring that animal into the dining room?

-This is for you. -Thank you.

That's your dismissal pay. You're fired. Hand over the box.

I don't understand.

You were late. Terentev called me in a rage and canceled his Christmas order.

The road was blocked, they weren't letting anyone through.

I'll make it up to you.

I know your type.

Go easy on you once and you act like you own the place.

Don't call me a "type."

I demand full pay for all my working days for the past month!

You "demand"? Very well then.

-Out you go. -This is not fair!

It's me.

-Did you bring it? -Yes.

Ma'am, please don't be angry with me. It started croaking, and I had to…

It's a sin, I am so sorry.

I'm not angry. Thank you, Prosha.

And this, just like you asked.

What do you need the frog for? Some divination ritual?

It's Yuletide today. I want to do some fortune-telling for my betrothed,

but for that I need a mirror… like the one you have here.

Can I come in the evening?

You, get off my crate!

Hey, what the…

Excuse me, my fault.

Let me help you brush off the snow, sir.

Wait!

You dropped something!

Whoa, you rascal!

Hey!

Why are you following me?

You dropped this.

You're fast. Who taught you to skate so well?

I do this for work.

I mean, I used to do this for work.

Le Grand Pirogue delivery--

They fired you? When?

-Today. -I congratulate you.

-What for? -For starting a new life.

So you need a new job then?

Yes, I do.

Come to the Devil's Bridge at midnight.

Do you know where that is?

Son, I lost my balance, that's all.

Good thing you were there.

Sheer luck.

That's what you think.

There's no such thing as luck. Everything is written.

Dad, what if a big chunk of ice falls from a roof

and kills someone? Is it also written?

Well, it depends.

If it kills a governor, they might start clearing roofs of ice… for once.

Matvey, what's wrong? You look upset.

I can tell. What happened?

Forget it. Let's go.

Did they fire you?

There's no point fretting over it, my boy.

You're a smart lad.

You'll find a new job, far better than the old one.

God willing, we'll make it through this month.

Hey, want to be a lamplighter like me?

You wait and see, one day everything will be electric.

-It's all malarkey, son. -No, it's the future.

Look at these blades. Razor-sharp. That's Dutch quality for you.

Remember when you gave them to me, you said they were magic skates?

That's what my father told me.

It's a family tradition.

And since they've lasted that long, then they most certainly are magical.

I bet they'll outlive electricity.

-Here you are. -Thanks.

I like this piece. Who's the composer?

Claude Debussy.

Pity he's not Russian.

I've noticed you usually play this before asking me for something.

Yes, don't deny it.

You have a gift of clairvoyance.

It's my curse.

Alice's insolent behavior

has been getting out of hand lately.

Today, in the dining room, she was openly rude to you.

How do you suggest I deal with that? Whip her?

Marriage is a good way to calm even the hottest of heads.

Darling, I agree, but finding a good match would take time.

Is there not a single suitable candidate in all of St. Petersburg?

Lordy! What sort of sorcery is this?

This is science.

"Higher Courses For Women invites new students."

My betrothed, come and show your face to me.

May I turn off the electricity? It's too bright in here.

I'll bring you a kerosene lamp.

Are you lost, brother?

I was told to come here… by him.

He's a friend.

This is Duke, this is Genghis, I'm Alex.

Nice to meet you. I'm Matvey.

And this here is Fly.

Why do they call you Fly?

Because I'm impossible to catch.

I see.

My betrothed, come and show your face to me.

Why don't you come to me, you bastard?

Do you want to have a go? The candles are already lit.

-I don't believe in fortune-telling. -How come? My parents met that way.

And my grandparents too. They were married the next day

and lived happily for 40 years. How can you not believe in it?

I don't believe we're destined to be with a single person

out of a billion people on this planet.

What's a "billion"?

-Have you been doing this long? -Doing what?

Well, stealing.

It's not stealing. You can't steal from people what doesn't belong to them.

To whom exactly?

To the usurpers.

People who live off other people.

Merchants, landlords, officers, ministers…

Their name is Legion, for they are many.

Everything they supposedly "own" doesn't belong to them.

It's only temporarily in their possession.

Is the Tsar… also an usurper?

Are you, perchance, an agent of the state? Asking such questions…

Lads, I'm not…

I was joking.

Shall we go for a ride?

There's nothing more humiliating than being the slave of a slave.

Your ex-master is a slave to his money, like all of the bourgeoisie.

Burj… What is it again?

Bourgeoisie. The ruling class of society

that lives off their capitalistic income, earned for them by hired labor.

Alex, you're doing his head in!

What are you staring at?

The same coat of arms was on the carriage they blocked the road for.

-A lion chomping on a broom? -That's rich.

-Is that bourgeoisie as well? -No, that is aristocracy.

That calls for a punishment.

You're flying too low, Fly. Don't get us all busted.

-Come on, grab hold of his nipple. -But be gentle.

Come on, hurry up.

Start drawing, and make it pretty.

Busted.

Please don't scream…

That was entertaining to watch.

Hurry, let's get out of here.

She got you good and proper.

What a temper!

Lads!

I'll go now. My home is that way.

All right then.

We could use your hands, even if slightly burned.

And your feet,

even in those odd-looking skates.

You can find us at the Ice Fair.

I'll think about it. It was nice to meet you.

-See you later. -Bye.

He won't be back. Too squeaky clean.

Want to bet?

Good morning, ma'am! Sleep well?

So you did some fortune-telling last night, didn't you?

Your nose always itches afterwards.

Well, did you see your betrothed?

Is he handsome? Did you like him?

Is he an officer?

With a mustache? A nobleman?

No, quite the opposite.

What's "opposite"?

Tonight's dinner with the Shuvalovs will seal my fate.

I'll be asking for their Sonya's hand in marriage.

Why bother? Everyone knows that Count Shuvalov is deep in debt.

He lost all of his connections at the court. His career is over.

-Don't get angry with me, but… -Gentlemen, take your seats!

…these are nothing but dirty rumors.

They say the minister's daughter is up for grabs now.

The biggest catch in all of the city.

Her late mother left her quite a fortune.

Let us begin.

What I have here is the latest model of the police truncheon.

Given our government's modernization policy,

we believe it appropriate to replace some of our sabers with these truncheons.

They deliver a good blow

and have proven highly effective in dispersing protests.

A most important point to note is that, unlike the sabers we have now,

the use of truncheons does not result in death or serious injury.

There.

What doesn't kill you, so to speak, makes you wiser.

Those sayings of his!

Trang… Trunk… Cheon?

Are you suggesting importing them from England?

No. These are made here in Russia.

There's a factory near Tula that can make up to 10,000 of them a year.

Gentlemen, who has something to say?

Count Arkady Trubetskoy, Department of Public Order and Safety.

Given the current political tensions in the country,

such a move could be misinterpreted by the populace.

If potential protesters cease to fear the gendarme's saber,

it could lead to unpredictable consequences.

I say that, at the present time,

such an initiative goes against the state interests of our country.

You're too early in your career

to think about the national interests.

I beg your pardon, I was merely stating my opinion.

Are you by any chance related to Count Mikhail Trubetskoy?

Yes, Your Excellency. He is my father.

I see.

This factory near Tula…

Yes, Your Excellency?

Does it, perchance, belong to your father-in-law?

This is pure coincidence.

They offered the best price.

I bet they did.

Have a seat.

I think that, right now, you should be focusing your efforts

not on these truncheons,

but on the rising incidence of pickpocketing.

-It's normal for the holiday season. -What?

-Your Excellency… -Yes?

Apparently, the bandits are accomplished ice skaters.

As far as I know, most thefts are taking place at the Ice Fair.

Yes, the bastards are speedy.

They often get away from the gendarmes.

That problem can be solved.

Do you have an idea for a solution?

The sausage is delicious.

Hey!

I'll be back later.

-So, are you in? -Yes.

You lost your bet.

Let's see if you're any good.

Timing is crucial. You need to be in the right place at the right time.

Then everything will just fall into your hands.

That's the secret. And thanks to our skates, we're so quick,

the bourgeoisie don't even notice us taking the weight off their pockets.

You're quick on your skates,

but you have to be quick with your hands too. Watch me.

See what I did? Now you try.

We'll work on your sleight of hand and speed of reaction.

You'll train until it becomes natural.

Your hands should do all the work for you.

We call this trick the Road Accident.

Gotta be more careful. Well, this could happen to anyone.

This is the Spinning Top. You spin a gentleman until he loses some weight.

Why Spinning Top?

It just sounds nice.

Chapter 13, "The way to a capitalist's heart lies through his wallet."

-After each ex… -What?

Expropriation. You have to get rid of what you got.

For that we have a special deposit box. Tea, please.

That'll be 15 kopecks.

Four out of ten!

It has to be ten out of ten…

ten times in a row.

You know what this is?

-A coin. -It's more than that.

In order to procure gold, you need some silver.

We call this trick a Hole in the Pocket.

Most rich people don't know where their money goes anyway.

Son, where do you go every day?

I got a new job, Dad.

I told you you would. What is it?

It's a… partnership venture.

And what does this partnership do?

Expropriation.

Sounds interesting. A new industry?

Sort of.

Well done, son. I'm proud of you.

Drink up.

I can't look at milk anymore.

Don't look at it. Drink it.

-You at least have the skin. -Dad…

They're richer than I thought.

They also own a lavish estate on Lake Ladoga,

vintage vineyards near Nice,

and a palace in Yalta, soon to feature a private golf course.

A private what?

-Not now, Mother. -Let's go.

-Your Nobleness. -Thank you.

Count and Countess Trubetskoy.

I am delighted to see you.

What?

-Countess. -Duke.

And, Count… Please meet my wife Severina and my daughter Alice.

Very pleased to meet you.

Thank you very much for inviting us, Duke. It's a great honor.

Your late father and I served together in the Caucasus.

Why have you never asked me for patronage?

I believe that a man should be judged by his work, not his relatives.

-Like father, like son. -Mother…

-All right, all right. -Countess, it's good to see you again.

After you.

I do hope you will enjoy tonight's performance.

Thank you.

The Gemini. This constellation consists of two bright stars

that are very close to one another.

Gemini is the first air sign in the zodiac.

They tend towards duality

and are constantly chasing something unattainable.

Air is their element, Mercury is their planet.

Their interests are literature and politics.

Famous Geminis include Peter the Great, Aleksandr Pushkin…

and my husband.

Thank you, darling. Thank you.

Gentlemen, I must steal my husband from you.

-Excuse me. -I missed you, darling.

Count, how did you like the performance?

It was amazing, I enjoyed it immensely.

It was splendid, darling.

Duke, I'd like to take this opportunity…

The Imperial Ice Skating Club is soon having its annual Ice Ball, and--

I'm afraid, ice skating isn't the sharpest of my skills.

I meant to invite your daughter.

I think it's a marvelous idea.

My husband and I have been discussing arranging more social outings for Alice.

We will consider your proposition

and inform you of our decision in due time.

Thank you.

Good morning!

Rise and shine, everyone! Time to go to work!

Early bird gets the worm.

Good morning!

Dad…

Let's go to a hospital and have a doctor see you.

Doctors only treat the human body, but all diseases come from the soul.

Cough again for me please.

You can get dressed now.

Will you admit him to the hospital?

No, there's no need for that.

Thank God. Told you it's nothing serious.

But he coughs up blood… What can we do to stop that?

Hot milk should ease his symptoms.

Now if you'll excuse me--

Thank you.

The checkup is free.

Dad, wait here.

Doctor, there has to be a treatment for this.

Too late. He has advanced tuberculosis.

I didn't want him to hear it, but we can't help him at this point.

But there's got to be something, somewhere, that can be done for him.

The only doctor who has success with such cases is Dr. Tyshler

who runs a clinic in Baden-Baden, Germany. It's terribly expensive.

-You could never afford it. -Would Tyshler be able to cure him?

Son, the doctor has real patients to see to. What I have is a simple cold.

Dr. Tyshler is the only one.

Come on.

He's just asking for it. It's your debut.

Go for it.

Not bad for the first time.

How much for a ride?

You just push the sleigh

and distract the customer at the right time.

-Where to, sir? -It's my turn now!

-Sir, I'm the fastest! -Take me to Nikolskaya St.

-Easy, young man. -Of course.

Is this your first day on the job or something?

Remember how we got here?

This is so far from the city, there's not a soul around.

Exactly.

We don't want any neighbors.

A ship?

Does it have a name?

Sure it does. The Old Leakey.

If things go well, by spring, we'll patch up the holes, the sails and…

-And off we go. -Go where?

Into the bright future.

-Welcome aboard. -Go on, don't be shy.

Help me sort the loot.

That's what I call a good harvest.

A batch of fresh holiday cash.

Still smells of ink.

What's this?

I don't know.

It was in the man's pocket in place of his wallet.

So what is it?

It's an invitation…

to the ball at the Imperial Ice Skating Club.

All the fattest cats in town will be there.

Two invitations.

You and I go. It'll be a goldmine.

With a face like yours, no way they'll let you in, invitation or not.

-Your face is no better. -I'm not volunteering to go.

It's simple!

Matvey will choose whom to take with him.

-Me? -With him?

He got lucky once! The kid has no experience!

He was skilled enough to get us these invitations.

So you're saying they won't let me in, but they'll let him in?

Dressed in those rags?

You're right.

We work on his style.

And finally, your skates.

-What about my skates? -Let's have a closer look at them.

Here.

They're too conspicuous. Let them rest tonight.

-But-- -You don't want to get noticed.

You look very aristocratic.

A true baron.

The more expensive your outfit,

the less suspicion you arouse among the gentry.

Here, clothes make the man. We're using their prejudices against them.

I tell you, my dear, there is absolutely nothing to do in Paris in the winter.

Count Bobrinsky and I nearly died of boredom!

-Hey, what a slow reader you are! -Welcome, sirs.

-Your skates, Duchess. -Thank you.

What a cute dog!

Bonjour, Mademoiselle.

Do you know them all?

No, but everyone here pretends to know one another. Just keep smiling.

After you, Mademoiselle.

-Brut? -Brut.

Thank you.

-Pardon me! -Careful, sir.

-Where do they serve profiteroles? -Over there.

Over there?

Now let's attend to some business. Profiteroles!

These profiteroles are delicious.

Why aren't you having any?

Go get some before they get cold!

-Pardon me, my fault! -No trouble at all.

Dear guests, it is my great honor to welcome you this evening!

Our ball has never been so lavish as it is today,

for which we owe gratitude

to the generosity of Grand Duke Konstantin!

I am happy to welcome you to our humble celebration!

I am certain that the 20th century will be even more exciting!

And now, Count Arkady Trubetskoy will demonstrate the fine art of figure skating

if our honored guests would kindly vacate the center of the rink.

What a marvelous evening.

Which one of them?

Think larger, my friend.

I beg your pardon.

My skates are a bit too small.

When there's no war, officers always have plenty of creative energy.

This is so beautiful.

What a leap!

Thank you for this.

Count, I must say I'm not a very good skater.

You just relax, Alice, I'll do everything for you.

-Alice, may I be frank with you? -Yes.

All my life I've felt that I'm missing something.

I always felt a strange, almost mystical emptiness in my heart.

That's something to discuss with your doctor, not me.

A witty response.

While I'm young, strong and single, I cherish the ice skating thrill.

A winter's chill, so pure and simple, does better than a doctor's skill.

Ever since I first saw you,

I haven't been able to imagine my life without you.

Count, we've never even talked before.

I don't know you at all.

Arkady, I'm sorry to interrupt,

but we have a situation that requires your attention.

I'll be with you in a moment.

The situation is very serious.

Alice, you must excuse me. I'll accompany you to Miss Jackson.

No need, Count. I'll stay here and practice a little.

Of course.

I always carry my watch with me, in my right pocket…

-Count Trubetskoy, at your service. -So, what happened is…

-Thank you. -You're welcome.

It's you!

It's me.

That was just a stupid dare. I didn't mean to frighten you.

A dare?

Your ideas about anatomy are quite peculiar.

I'm talking about your "artwork" on my balcony.

But… that's how I see it.

You look very different today.

We're living in the time of change.

I can't find my wallet.

It was in my pocket a minute ago!

This is a misunderstanding. I think I have to go now.

Wait.

I have an idea. I won't turn you in if you do me a favor.

-I'll tell the orchestra. -13 Solyanoy Lane.

-Be there tomorrow at midday. -Are you blackmailing me?

Well, yes.

Ladies and gentlemen, we have a bit of a situation here.

If you think you've lost something, please come to the rotunda…

Your Nobleness, we don't want to be late to dinner at our grandmother's.

Dear guests, if you see anyone suspicious…

Do we have a deal?

…please tell Count Trubetsky.

Arkady!

Why did the orchestra stop playing?

I'll tell them to resume.

Gentlemen, what's the commotion?

Have you seen a small white dog around here?

The Duchess lost her dog on the rink.

-Close the gate, don't let it out! -Close it, now!

-A dog? -Has anyone left just now?

Who were you flirting with?

No, Your Nobleness!

Have you, by any chance, fallen for a member of the enemy class?

Don't ever forget who you are and where you come from.

Come on.

-Dear Countess, sorry about your loss! -Grand Duke, you dropped your watch!

Tonight, we celebrate!

Dad, you're still up?

Could you sharpen these for me, for tomorrow?

-You got new skates? -These are for work.

Why don't you use yours?

Let them have some rest.

We're not allowed to use old… I mean, antique skates.

For safety reasons.

-Our boss is very strict about that. -Where were you all night?

What's this you're wearing? Are you drunk?

Dad… Look at this instead.

That's not all of it. Here's more.

Look. Here.

Here's more.

Here.

We need to hide it. Where's our box?

Matvey…

Nothing good will ever come of money gained in a dishonest way.

What does honest or dishonest have to do with anything?

Honesty is only for those who can afford it.

Matvey, you have to give all of this money back

before it's too late. Promise you will do that, Matvey.

No, I won't give it back. We need this money.

For your treatment.

The doctor said we must take you to a clinic in Germany.

Son, you don't understand.

I know you want to save my life, but I want to save your soul.

What if there is no soul and no afterlife?

Don't say that. God is listening.

What if there is no God either?

Go!

Faster! Keep up the pace!

Posture!

Well done!

Continue without me.

I present to you the speed skating gendarme squad in training.

Do I understand correctly, Count, that you thought of this long ago?

Your Excellency, we received direct orders from the ministry

to put all our resources into fighting political crimes.

Last night, the Grand Duke was robbed on the Imperial rink.

He lost a priceless family heirloom. His grandfather's watch.

I hope I needn't remind you who his grandfather was?

I know very well who he was.

I am convinced that it's the work of the same gang of skater thieves.

Theft of the royal family's property can be equated to terrorism.

When will your squad be ready for duty?

We will begin patrolling the canals tomorrow.

Excellent.

See, Your Excellency, the wooden clubs came in handy after all.

Attention!

Did you sleep well?

I hope we didn't keep you awake.

How come you're here so early?

Alex… can I live here for a while?

You can live here as long as you like. Come.

Rise and shine, comrades! We've all had enough rest!

Leave your jacket here.

Here's half of the total sum.

Could you please telephone that clinic, speak with Dr. Tyshler

and arrange everything? I'll bring the other half soon.

Nurse, take this money, it's for Professor Tyshler.

I'll telephone him, but you must hurry.

-Give me a ruble. -I'm not a bank.

Hey, where are you going?

Wait for me here.

-You came! -As promised.

Let's go.

-In here? -Yes, hurry.

-What is this place? -Read the sign.

HIGHER COURSES FOR WOMEN

But I…

-Do you need me to steal something? -No.

Pretend to be my husband.

Next! Vyazemskaya!

-Is it you? -Yes.

Come in. And you wait here, sir.

And thus, this formula completes the chemical equation.

My friends,

I'm terribly sorry for being late. I came here straight from the station.

I wouldn't be so distressed if it were my fault, but it was the train's.

As usual…

I can tell you're not angry with me, so let's continue.

Typical Mendeleev.

Now, what do we, or, rather, who do we have here?

Mademoiselle, allow me to introduce myself. Dmitri Mendeleev.

And what is your name?

-Alice. -Alice.

Charming. Well?

It's such a surprise to meet you here, Mr. Mendeleev.

Your Foundations of Chemistry is my bedside book.

Is that right? Let's check and see.

Allow me…

-Well, the beginning is good. -Thank you.

Very nice.

Tell me, fair young ladies, la, la, la…

You know what? This is quite a bold approach. Well done.

Colleagues… I've seen enough.

We're signing her up.

Not so fast, Mr. Mendeleev.

I trust you have permission from your father or your husband to study here?

Of course. My husband is here.

Please invite him in.

I really am delighted to see how bold your solution is.

Here's her husband.

Me. Yes. Husband.

-Fully agree with everything. -There you go.

Won't stop nagging me. My wife.

"I want to marry… I mean, study… at the higher curses." I mean, courses.

-Courses. -There you go.

-Her husband agrees. -Yes.

So, colleagues, we sign her up.

Not yet, Mr. Mendeleev. Sir, have you written your statement?

-No. -Well then, write it here and now.

Please give him a sheet of paper.

Go on, young man, write it. What are you waiting for?

-Don't be shy. -Over here.

Well?

In your own words.

Please.

Do us an honor.

I see.

Where was your wedding? What church?

-Vladimirsky. -Andreevsky.

Next.

Ask your father to give you permission.

What a splendid idea! How did I not think of that? Thank you.

You're welcome.

It's called sarcasm, in case you've never heard of it.

You don't know my father.

His views on education for women are different from mine.

But if you'd passed and they'd signed you up, then what?

He would've found out anyway.

I was prepared to leave home.

Everything depended on today's exam.

How was I to know?

You didn't tell me I'd have to write things and answer questions.

I thought, in your line of work, you'd be skilled in the art of lying.

Give me your hand.

-Thank you. -What is this?

-For your time. -I didn't come for this.

Take them back.

Don't worry, I won't tell anyone.

Just imagine you took it from me without me noticing.

Take me back.

You know, the usual way.

You know nothing about me!

You grew up in a huge mansion, and I was born in a ditch.

What?

I can't read or write, I steal from the rich,

but your kind has always been stealing from the poor. Sorry.

-I've never stolen from anyone! -You've never had to.

Your ancestors did it all for you. Who built your mansion?

My grandfather.

And how many bondslaves did your grandfather own?

A thousand? Two thousand?

Ten thousand.

Giddyap!

I didn't mean to offend you.

You're right.

I don't know how poor people… I mean, ordinary people live.

Why do you want to study? What for?

Isn't it obvious?

Scientists can use their knowledge to make the world a better place.

They can cure incurable diseases

and make life better for everyone, not just the rich.

You see?

We've arrived.

I don't even know your name.

Alice Maria Augusta von Schlessenburg-Vyazemskaya.

And your name?

Matvey. Simply Matvey.

Still, I must reward you for your time somehow.

I'd rather you…

come with me.

I don't mean right now. Tonight.

We can go for a walk and a skate along the canals.

I'll show you the city like you've never seen it before.

Matvey, are you inviting me on a secret date?

Yes.

You know what?

I meant to say, on a city tour.

Give me my coat.

You can't go any further.

-And the fare? -In a moment.

So what do you say?

Maybe one day.

Merry Christmas to you, kind man! Thank you!

May luck be always on your side, and a pretty woman at your side!

Thank you. Merry Christmas to you too.

How about a cup of tea?

-Here's your tip. -Thank you, sir.

Make way!

-Watch where you're going! -I'm very sorry.

And this.

I don't know what I love more,

your generosity or your wisdom.

I figured there's no such thing as too many diamonds.

Alice…

don't you want to try on your new necklace?

Trust me, dear daughter,

yours is no less luxurious.

Beautiful.

-Thank you. -It suits you marvelously.

Yes, it's very pretty.

As for your present, we'll have to go…

-Where? -Outside.

I'm not looking.

Voilà!

A horseless carriage.

There are only three of them in St. Petersburg.

One belongs to the Tsar, one to Ryabushinsky, the banker,

and the third belongs to my wonderful beloved husband.

You're amazing.

How far will this thing go? As far as the first pothole?

Right. We'll learn to fly before we learn to fix our roads.

Fyodor, potholes are our country's strategic advantage.

While our roads are bad, we're invincible. So, how does it work?

Very simple. You press this pedal and steer as you wish.

And this pedal here is for stopping. And that's it.

Let's see…

-It's not moving! Which pedal? -The right one.

Off it goes!

Careful!

A very curious toy indeed.

Sir, this is no toy.

It has the power of ten horses.

And none of the droppings.

-And now, my present for Alice. -Get it, quick!

A cozy little house for your furry friend.

Thank you.

I have a splendid idea, let's go to the Christmas mass in the locomobile.

Wonderful idea! Right, Alice?

I'm still not feeling well.

I'd rather stay home tonight.

What are you doing here?

It's Christmas Eve. I have a small present for you.

Someone might see you!

I promised you a night city tour.

-Matvey, are you insane? -Step aside.

I can't leave the house without permission, especially at this hour.

-I'll help you. -Matvey…

Everything's fine.

-I can do it myself. -Leave it to me.

I'm a bad skater, as you know.

We'll sort that out.

Good. Now a bit faster.

I can't do it.

Nonsense. Just stop thinking about it and you'll be fine.

-Let's do it together. One… -One…

-Two… -Two…

One…

Hold onto me, and don't look down.

One, two. One, two.

Forget about everything, and look forward.

That's it.

Ahead of us is the Lions Bridge.

When you pass under it, make a wish and it'll come true.

See the street lamps? My father lights them all.

-Really? -Yes.

-Don't be scared. -What's ahead?

Don't be scared.

Now look.

Look at those antlers.

CHINISELLE CIRCUS

May I?

-What's he got there? -Cover me.

Where?

It's just flour.

I get it! Dispersion helps increase reaction volume. You know?

No.

Enjoy, it's delicious.

-Thank you. -Thank you.

-How do I… -Just bite it.

Listen, let's go look at the wrestlers.

-But what about the swing? -We'll be back.

Matvey!

What a nice surprise.

Alex, Margot, this is Alice.

-Good evening. -I remember Alice.

-Alice? -What are your plans?

-We wanted to… -May I?

Take a walk together? How boring.

Quantity leads to quality.

It takes time to heat up water, but it boils in an instant.

You won't even notice when everyone here starts to boil

and the whole empire goes up in a cloud of steam.

Are you suggesting that, in order to achieve social justice,

most people must give up all their property?

Most people don't have any property. The problem is,

the ruling class of usurpers must be replaced with a people's council.

Here. Read this book.

I'm sure it'll help make sense of things.

It's my Christmas present to you.

Here's to the Christmas present!

Thank you.

DAS KAPITAL - BY KARL MARX

Let's take your example with water. Steam is still water, still H2O.

It remains the same substance, only its form changes.

Do you think there will be any substantial change

if you just replace one usurping minority, as you call it, with another?

See? Their unwillingness to give up their privileges

is the reason why peaceful change is impossible.

Matvey, what are your thoughts on this?

I think we need to focus on our similarities, not our differences.

Why are you listening to her?

She's bourgeoisie. What else would she say?

And this weasel will agree with anything she says

just to get under her skirt.

It's clear as day!

Apologize to her.

I have a great revelation for you.

Countesses and peasant girls are all the same…

when you turn them upside down.

Bring it on.

Order them to stop fighting.

I can't order them around, I can only make a suggestion.

So make a suggestion then!

-I suggest that you stop fighting! -He messed with the wrong guy.

Why are you being so rude? And you, cool off.

Alex!

No party is complete without a good fight!

Sounds like a toast to me.

Come here, you!

It'll sting a little.

Matvey…

Thank you.

I'm home in one piece, but you're a bit broken.

I'll be as good as new in no time.

Matvey, I wish this night would never end, but…

But?

I must tell you something.

They're planning to marry me off.

But…

you really wanted to study.

Are you really going to marry without love?

Love is nothing more than our basic sexual instincts…

that control our behavior.

You should go now.

Goodbye.

Life is beautiful and that calls for a celebration!

A bar, what a coincidence!

Good man, pour me a shot of caraway vodka!

Let's make it two shots, and three would be even better!

You're a good man! Keep them coming!

In fact, I'll buy the whole pitcher!

I'm a rich man today!

You keep the change.

Thank you, sir.

Well, bottoms up!

Sir, you dropped your wallet.

My wallet? My wallet…

Marussia?

Marussia, where are you going? Sweetie, you'll fall and hurt your knee!

Ladies and gentlemen!

I would like to wish you all a merry… drunken afternoon!

Got you! You're under arrest! You won't get away this time!

Go home.

I said, go home.

Now!

Fly!

Run!

Make way!

Fly, down!

Out of my way!

-Coming through! -Make way, everyone!

-Spin me! -All right!

Give way!

Dive under!

-Fly! -Let's do it!

Let's split up.

Matvey!

Thank you.

Come here!

Thank you.

You're very lucky, the bullet missed the bone. Careful.

I recommend avoiding physical activity for now.

Take this, it's for the pain.

Thank you.

May I walk you to your seat?

Alice, what I wanted to tell you at the rink--

Your attention is flattering, Count, but my interests lie in other areas.

-I'm sure any young woman would-- -I know that.

-What? -I know that you're different.

You're progressive and smart. A 20th-century woman.

And trust me, our views are more similar than you might think.

All right, what are your views on women in higher education?

You might find it hard to believe, but…

I'm a liberal.

I fully support equal rights for women, in all matters.

Including the right to vote.

But we don't have elections.

Count, your seat is next to Alice's.

And now, I will need the assistance of two people.

A man and a woman. Yin and yang.

Their energies will bring the elements together for my next act.

Severina, do me an honor, help choose my assistants.

I think Alice and Arkady are perfect for this.

Tremendous!

Alice and Arkady, please come to me with your candles.

Alice, please stand to my left and listen carefully.

Arkady, stand to the right.

And now, you will bring the flames of your candles

to the surface of this bowl.

Pay attention. Take caution to do it simultaneously.

One!

Two!

Three!

Young people, I sense that your energies are destined for one other.

If this is truly so, this flame will not harm me.

Tremendous! Because of your energies, the flame is doing me no harm!

Alice!

Like I said, extraordinary energy!

This effect is referred to as cold fire.

-Alice. -To observe it, you mix…

-Please stop. -…ethanol and boric acid…

-Alice, get off the stage. -…and ignite the mixture.

-I command you. -The vapors produce a green flame,

cool to the touch.

It's not magic, it's chemistry.

I'm sure this gentleman knows

that when the alcohol begins to burn, the flame will become hot.

I'm very sorry about this, ladies and gentlemen.

Dad?

-I'd like to have a word with you… -Father, you didn't even knock.

…about what happened. What are you hiding? Hand it over.

It would appear that the Decembrists failed to teach anyone anything.

All our problems stem from the fact that we stopped beating our children.

Should I fetch a whip? Or do you have one with you?

Your sarcasm is inappropriate.

They're just books.

You have no idea what kind of fire they can fuel!

Burn the books.

DAS KAPITAL

You, get out.

Good. Don't worry, I'm holding you.

Look at what I'm doing and repeat after me. Now turn.

Never look down, Matvey. Always look forward.

Now try without my help. On you go.

Well done.

-Dad, I can skate. Look! -Well done, Matvey!

Don't look down.

Always look forward.

Dad?

Dad?

Nothing good will ever come of money gained in a dishonest way.

You have to give all of this money back. Promise you will do that, Matvey.

I promise.

Keep it.

I can't. I made a promise.

Where's Duke?

He'll be back.

Is that your final decision, Matvey?

Then why did you even come here?

I wanted to tell you in person.

An oath to your father is sacred.

You can't break it.

What?

Stop!

I said stop!

Fyodor!

Is that a woman behind the wheel?

Give me your sweet caress!

Let's make our life a dream…

Don't worry about Duke.

I'm sure he just went to see his girl, he'll be back by morning.

Duke would never…

She was looking for you in the bar.

Alice?

I left home.

I'm going to Paris, to study at the best chemistry school in the world.

Matvey, I brought my jewelry.

It's enough to pay for the tickets and for your father's treatment.

There. You'll be warm all night.

This room isn't very cozy, but I hope you get a good night's sleep.

Yes.

I'm glad you paid me a visit that one time.

-Where will you sleep? -Downstairs. This is Alex's room.

In the morning, you and I will go to the train station

and find out about the next train to Paris.

Good night.

Good night.

Matvey…

Tell me…

What would you say if I asked you to come to Paris with me?

Say something to me in French.

The first thing that comes to mind.

I love you.

What does that mean?

Gentlemen!

We have you surrounded! Resistance is futile!

Come out one by one with your hands up,

or we'll be forced to take drastic measures!

It's the gendarmes.

You have 30 seconds!

Your time is up, gentlemen!

Do it!

They set the ship on fire!

We're surrounded!

They're everywhere!

It's the gendarmes!

You're just in time for a chat.

Alice, remember you said you'd give up your privileges for the sake of commoners?

Alex, leave her out of this.

She won't get hurt. We'll just trade her for our freedom.

-Alex, I can't breathe! -We're leaving soon, dear.

We have no time for your chivalry!

Alex!

-You go. -What about you?

Go. I know what I'm doing.

Over here!

Give me your hand!

-Go! -Come on!

Stop! That way.

-Got you, bastard! -Grab the girl!

Let go of me!

This side is safer. Climb down, like that time from the balcony.

Let me go! Bastards!

-What about you, Matvey? -I'll be right behind you.

No need to rush.

I'll repeat myself, never forget who you are…

-Alex… -Look!

No!

And where you come from.

He survived.

Is that all of them?

I have a hostage here!

A noblewoman!

The minister's daughter.

Her name is Alice.

Is he bluffing?

Don't shoot!

Let her go! She has nothing to do with this.

First, let all of my friends go, and then we'll talk.

You'd better hurry, or you'll have no young lady to save.

Get them to their feet.

Him as well.

But he's a traitor!

Yes, but he's our traitor. Look at how they… damaged him.

Now it's your turn!

I need a guarantee that you will let them go.

An officer's word.

You're free to go.

Hold on to the rope.

Catch her.

Matvey!

Go on, hit me again if that's going to make you feel better.

-Should we let the bandits get away? -No, arrest them.

-Seize them! -Catch them!

Listen, she will be just fine.

"Fine"? I'll never see her again.

I was talking about her, not you.

So this is what an officer's word is worth these days.

Did you really think you two had a chance?

My friend, never in the history of this country would you two be together.

We love each other, and this country has nothing to do with it.

That sure has a ring to it.

It's time for you to go. The fire melted the ice.

Take a running leap.

And you?

The captain is always last to leave the ship.

See you on the other side.

What's going on up there?

Got him.

No!

Your daughter is deeply sorry for what happened.

She didn't know who else to turn to.

I am sure it won't happen again.

Your Excellency, I hope you can find it in yourself to forgive her.

Giddyap

Doctor, some fishermen brought a man in from the ice.

Put him down right here.

The boy was lying by the water.

We checked, he seems alive.

-Seemed… -Heat some water.

We have successfully liquidated a gang of dangerous pickpockets

who worked the city's canals and ice rinks.

The leader was a repeat offender Alexey Tarasov, also known as "Alex."

We found a stash of valuables in the gang's hideout.

I believe this watch is the Grand Duke's family heirloom

that was stolen from him on the Imperial rink.

Alice!

Congratulations.

Arkady has asked for your hand in marriage, and I agreed.

Fyodor, champagne!

-Countess. -Thank you.

Beautiful.

We're so happy for you!

We'll announce the engagement tonight at the New Year ball.

Congratulations.

This is a good omen!

Always look forward, son. Got it? Now try without my help.

Don't look down.

Always look forward.

Well, back from the dead is what you are.

Here, Doctor.

Matvey…

They brought your father here.

Take care of yourself.

Just a second. Doctor!

Thank you for everything.

His Excellency awaits you in his locomobile.

Duke von Schlessenburg-Vyazemsky and his spouse.

My friend!

Welcome to our humble costume ball!

Greetings, Severina.

To mark the occasion, I have a small gift for you.

My watch! You found it!

I will most certainly tell my nephew Tsar Nicholas of your efforts.

Thank you, but this is entirely the merit of Count Arkady Trubetskoy.

I remember, the count with the ice skates!

Our old family legend has it that this very watch

is the only valuable Marie-Antoinette took with her from Versailles

when it was stormed by those peasants in red caps.

And guess where she hid this watch?

Where? Please do tell.

I dare not say it in the presence of women.

-Welcome! -Thank you, Your Highness.

Count and Countess Alsufyev.

Hey! Who did that?

Gather them all, quick! To the very last one!

These are exotic fruits, they cost a fortune!

Hurry up, you lot!

I'm not your enemy.

You'll know me better as time passes on, and then…

Excuse me, Count, I need to step out.

I'll accompany you.

Can't I go by myself?

Count! Don't ignore us.

All right.

Count!

Do me an honor, Count! Come dance with us!

Hey, fellow, aren't you serving drinks? We'll have some!

Alice.

Alice.

I bought us two tickets.

We can still make it to the train to Paris.

What are you doing here?

Is he bothering you?

Get back to work. Now.

On this joyous occasion at the turn of a new century,

I would like to announce that my family has some happy news.

My daughter Alice

and Count Arkady Trubetskoy are engaged to be married!

Count, where is Alice?

I will go fetch her.

The new year starts in one minute!

Let's count down the seconds! Sixty!

Fifty-nine! Fifty-eight!

Fifty-seven! Fifty-six!

Fifty-five! Fifty-four!

This is where she was standing.

FROM: ST. PETERSBURG - TO: PARIS

Come on.

Four! Three!

Two! One!

We must hurry.

Attention, passengers!

-We'll make it! -That way!

The Paris bound Nord Express train is now boarding.

We're on time.

Forward! Make way!

-No horses allowed! -Stop!

Count Trubetskoy, fourth division.

These Russians… I'm telling you, St. Petersburg changes people.

May I see your tickets? Thank you. And yours?

-I gave you two. -No, only one.

-What? -I don't understand. I had two tickets.

Please let us on. We'll pay the fare.

Only through the ticket office. You still have five minutes.

I'll go with you.

I'll be quick.

Wait for me on the train. You're tired.

This way please.

Thank you.

Are you traveling to Paris without luggage?

Yes.

Don't worry, I'll be quick.

Right this way please.

Thank you.

Don't let her out, even if I don't make it on time. Please.

-Matvey! -Stay put, Miss!

Stay inside, Miss, for your safety!

Matvey!

Your Nobleness, let me help you.

Matvey!

Please hurry!

Your Nobleness?

I can't see any blood.

-Young man, you… -Here's the second ticket.

Wait, are you feeling well?

Yes.

What can I say. Please proceed to your compartment.

These skates are… magical.

FOUR YEARS LATER

-Mr. Mendeleev? -That's me.

From what I understand, my daughter has been

corresponding privately with you for a few years now.

Well, since you obviously are aware of that fact,

I wouldn't risk calling our correspondence private.

-You haven't mentioned it to me. -You needn't get up.

Mr. Mendeleev, as a specialist in the field of chemistry,

what can you tell me about her educational achievements?

Me, "as a specialist." That's amusing.

Well, as a specialist, I can tell you the following.

In these few years, she has achieved outstanding results.

I can tell you more. I am convinced

that next year she will be awarded her degree,

which is unprecedented for a Russian female student.

That's right. And then the world of science will open up before her.

Any European university will be delighted to have her on their staff.

What about Russian universities?

Your Excellency, the Charter forbids women from teaching here.

The Charter is not the Bible, we can make changes to it.

I agree. Good idea, right?

We mix the required quantities of boric acid and ethanol,

add sulfuric acid which acts as a catalyst, and ignite the mixture.

The vapors of triethyl borate produce a green flame…

that is cool to the touch. Observe.

Beautiful, isn't it?

I love demonstrating this experiment.

I have a personal story connected to it.

-Professor. -Yes?

-Tell us the story. -Yes, we'd love to hear it!

I promise I will, some other time. And now let us hear the story

of this reaction as told in the language of chemistry.

So, we mix ethanol with boric acid and sulfuric acid…

Her lectures are immensely popular.

…triethyl borate produces a green flame which is…

Cool to the touch!

Cool to the touch.

-Please be careful, promise? -Of course.

Let's go.

Good. Don't look down. Always look forward.

Well done. You're doing great. And now try without my help.

Look at him go.

He takes after his father.

Peter, look!

Look at what Daddy can do. Splendid, isn't it? Go to him.

My clever boy! Shall we, darling?