Original subtitles

Ufa presents

Ilse Werner in

The Cine-Allianz Production

A Film by

Photography

Sets

Music by

Sound

Executive Producer

Starring

The Request Concert

Directed by

No, child, I'm quite positive I had the tickets in my purse.

- They were right here. - Are you sure it was this purse?

- Yes, yes. - But you wanted to wear the red dress.

You're right. The ticket must be in the other purse.

What are we going to do now? It's almost 3:30.

Don't worry, my dear. I'll take care of it.

Come.

Excuse me.

Sir, Inspector, please listen to me carefully.

We bought two tickets, but I forgot them at home.

That's too bad. You don't know how sorry I am to hear that.

But now please move to let others pass.

- Come, come. - A moment.

- Listen to me- - It's no use.

Just let me explain. I remember our numbers exactly.

Our tickets were for Block B, Row 1 2-

And you think that's all you need?

- Yes, of course, dear Sir. - No, madam, sorry.

Anyone could just show up with some numbers on their lips.

We wouldn't have to print tickets.

Are you implying I'm lying?

I'm the widow of Postmaster General Eichhorn.

A pleasure. But I'm sure he didn't post letters without stamps either.

- I can't let you through. - Outrageous.

- He can't help you. - He could if he wanted to.

- Is this your car? - No.

I mean, are you coming or going?

- No, the taxi is vacant. - Thank you.

You wait until I return with the tickets.

- I beg your pardon? - Yes, aunt-

Oh, I'm so sorry.

- Get going! What are you waiting for? - Tell me where to go first.

Home. Altalserstrasse 72.

See how we can communicate.

The lieutenant sends his best, but won't be able to come.

- He's asked me to give you the tickets. - That's a shame.

- He's away on business? - Yes, sir. He has to collect a plane.

What am I going to do with the second ticket?

- Do you want it? - I'd like to but-

- Also official business? - Yes, Lieutenant.

Well, too bad. Thank you.

Excuse me, miss. I have an extra ticket.

Perhaps I can help you out.

That's very kind, but we have tickets.

My aunt is getting them now.

But by the time she's back, it'll be all over.

Still, I can't, when she comes back and can't find me?

A little scare would serve her right.

After all, why did she forget the tickets?

This is so great. All those many people.

- How many, I wonder? - 89,968.

- How do you know so precisely? - It's in the program.

So, we could find out the price...

of a seat in Block C, Row 1 7?

Of course. Let's see. It costs...

Why do you want to know?

To know how much I owe you.

- Can't I treat you? - I can't accept tickets from a stranger.

- I'm Lieutenant- - Sit down.

- I'm Lieutenant Herbert Koch. - I'm Inge Wagner.

- So what do I owe you? - Good, if you insist.

I'll write you a proper invoice.

- What's your address? - No, I'll pay cash.

Here come the Germans.

It's her first time in Berlin. She doesn't know anyone.

- You must have seen her. - I'm not a nanny.

Let's call the police.

- How old is the child? - She'll be 1 9 in December.

Then we don't need the police.

She probably found herself a boyfriend.

- The idea! - I know girls.

Don't talk like that about my niece.

I'm not talking about your niece, but my Ella.

- When she sees a guy- - I don't care about your Ella.

- I'm looking for my child. - Well, then look for her.

There are only 1 00,000 people.

- Thank you. - What for?

Without you, I would have had to stay outside and missed it all.

Me too.

- Shall we go? - Yes. Where to?

I have to go home.

Of course, home. To your aunt.

She'll ask questions, you'll explain, but she won't understand anything.

What can I do? She's worried about me.

- I have to report back. - That's right.

That's why the phone was invented.

I can lead you to an excellent one.

Mrs. Eichhorn? One moment please.

Hi, Auntie. This is Inge.

I'm sorry for not waiting.

Just let her talk.

Auntie, I just want to explain.

No, I don't think so.

But be home by 1 0:00.

Certainly. I promise.

That's it. The next one to say ""aunt'' will pay a fine.

Can't you stay eight days longer? I have two weeks' holiday.

I hadn't planned for this, and even the eight days were hard enough to get.

Good, but we'll make good use of the eight days, then.

Actually, there are only seven.

That's tough. I don't know how to pull it off.

What's wrong?

Not enough time.

If we're to get engaged in eight days...

I'll have to get my first kiss by day after tomorrow.

- Don't miscalculate. - There's no other way.

Tonight we drink to friendship. Tomorrow we'll take our first excursion-

Out of the question.

Shame.

It would have been nice.

But if you don't want to...

- I do, but my aunt- - Stop!

You said ""aunt''. The fine is one mark.

And your aunt can't lock you up.

You can't lock me up.

Unfortunately not, but I won't allow you to meet with strange men...

behind the backs of your parents.

- You don't know him. - Exactly.

A decent man would have asked my permission first.

If you value such superficialities.

Superficialities?

Well, to you, I'm the odd old aunt from the last century...

- that you can make fun of. - Not true.

Oh, yes, I can tell.

You young people.

You act as if we hadn't done the same foolishness...

30 years ago.

You? Foolish? You never said.

- Leave me alone. - Tell me.

- No, you need to sleep. - No, please stay.

I have to ask you something. But don't get mad.

I won't.

Is it true you wanted to marry another man?

- Who told you that? - Uncle Heinz.

And that it was a lieutenant. Or did he lie?

No, it's true. I thought about it all night long.

Tell me. Why didn't you marry him?

When I was your age, I didn't understand it either.

- Were you engaged? - No.

But just as my parents were about to meet him...

a letter arrived and he had to leave suddenly.

Why?

Official business.

I didn't see him after that. He never wrote either.

I don't get it.

I didn't get it then either...

but my father was just a small-time contractor.

The man would have had to leave the army to marry me.

- Really? - Back then. Yes.

You know, Auntie. Then he couldn't have really loved you.

- Yes, he did. - No.

If you're really in love...

nothing can keep you apart.

My God. It's midnight. You must sleep now.

- When should I wake you? - At 6:00.

- So early? Where are you going? - Wannsee.

My father is just a lowly employee.

I don't want to marry him.

Do you think he would disapprove of me because I'm just a lowly lieutenant?

But I thought lieutenants weren't allowed to marry.

True, but that's not true of first lieutenants.

I'll be promoted in November.

Is that not to your liking?

- Do I have to answer such a stupid question? - Yes.

Hey! Can't you watch where you're going?

We can, but we don't feel like it right now.

Why do you even bother? It doesn't make a difference.

You're terrible. You're never serious.

I'm serious as you want, but I won't go to see your aunt.

Fine. But how else are we going to do it?

I can't just tell my parents, ""I met his lieutenant in Berlin...

and we're getting married. Bye!''

Your parents are a different story.

I'll visit them in my gala uniform, with a sword and flowers.

And in next room, my blushing bride awaits.

That's what you think. I'll stand there and laugh.

- When are you going? - On Monday.

Monday, that's great. I'll come along, then.

I still have eight days left, so that would be excellent.

- Agreed? - Agreed.

Not like that, my darling.

- A telegram, Lieutenant. - Thank you.

- When did you get it? - About an hour ago.

Get me a taxi. I'll just go and change.

Yes, sir.

My child!

You're crazy!

No need to demolish my lamp.

I just have to dance. I can't stop.

I've been there.

But you're so young. You have so much time ahead of you.

No, there isn't much time.

Two days from now, we'll visit my parents...

and in 98 days, I'll be Inge Koch.

Inge Koch.

How do you like it? It sounds good, doesn't it?

Yes, very good. If it leads to good things.

But, Auntie, what could possibly go wrong?

The plane will leave tomorrow at 4:30 from Tempelhof.

You'll travel in civilian clothes...

and you'll report to Captain Freiberg in Hall 2.

Don't write anything down.

Don't breathe a word to anyone. No one, you hear?

The entire mission could be endangered.

- Understood? - Yes, sir.

- That's all. Questions? - No, sir.

Well.

- Best of luck. - Thank you, sir.

Stay. I'll get it.

Hello? Yes, this is Eichhorn.

Who? What? In the middle of the night?

No. Miss Wagner has already gone to bed.

Yes? I'm here. Yes?

In 20 minutes? Yes, I'll meet you out front.

Have you gone completely crazy?

What does he want now in the middle of the night?

Something must have happened.

- Herbert. - Inge, I must talk to you.

- What's wrong? - I have to leave. Tomorrow morning.

- When will you be back? - I don't know. It'll be some time.

- Where are you going? - I can't talk about my mission.

You can't tell me?

Not only you. I can't tell anyone.

Herbert, tell me the truth...

didn't you know any of this yesterday?

Of course not.

The telegram was there When I got back at the hotel.

- So our trip- - Inge.

I'm also very sorry.

I'll write you right away.

Can't you tell me now what you're going to write?

How do you mean? I don't understand.

Yes, you understand. Don't be afraid to hurt me.

I want to be alone now-

But Inge. You must trust me.

You're going to be my wife.

Is that so?

Am I asking too much? It's only been a few days.

It's like a dream.

I'll wake up, and you'll be gone.

I'll write you. Often.

As often as I can.

Herbert, don't forget me.

The success of our entire mission...

depends on keeping it secret.

Any indiscretion...

by you or your family...

can have serious repercussions on foreign policy...

and cast our whole mission into doubt.

Therefore, all written correspondence...

will be prohibited...

for the first half year.

This is harsh, I know, but necessary.

You no longer report to the Wehrmacht...

but to the Lufthansa...

and until we have achieved the final formation, to the Legion Condor.

Thank you.

You heard the orders, Lieutenant.

There won't be any exceptions.

- You'll understand, right? - Yes, Captain.

Hang in there. It'll be all right.

September 6, 1 939

German Luftwaffe attacked with all its might...

enemy positions, railroad and roads...

east of the Weichsel.

Our troops continue to move across the Polish border.

Hi, Max! What brings you here?

They let you go?

Nothing works without me.

Hi, how are you? Feeling better again?

Hi, all going well?

I'm on leave.

Hey Marie, you and I can go for a dance, eh?

Can you help me? I can't get it done today.

Of course, Madame. Who's first?

Me. A rump steak, please.

Coming up for Miss Sophie.

Beautiful Miss Sophie with four freckles on her nose.

The army taught you nothing but counting freckles?

Girls without freckles are like the sky without stars.

Here's what we do with the English.

What would I do without you?

You'll be all right, no need to whimper. You're not the only one.

The lady over there has the same problem.

But she's a different kind of woman.

How long are you going to take? You'll never learn.

Give me that. This is how you do it.

You take too long and ruin it.

I've told you before to wash your hands after handling coal.

Now the buns are all black. Get out.

Oops. What's going on?

- Hi, Clara. - Oh, they sent you home again?

No, we leave tomorrow.

Can I help?

No. Wait outside.

Not enough room in here as it is.

If you say so. I'll go and see the teacher Friedrich.

- If you don't mind. - Fine.

- How is his wife? - So far so good.

Clara?

Can I take a piece of the cake?

No, don't cut it.

Take the whole cake.

You're a good soul, Clare.

Funny that you should notice.

Thank you for the flowers.

Nice that you haven't forgotten your teacher.

- No, we haven't. - Please come back soon.

- It's not the same. - Why?

- We have a woman teacher. - So? You'll have to pay more attention.

- Oh, dames are useless. - What's that, Gerd?

- Dad says that all the time. - Doesn't mean you should.

Say hi to your parents and make me proud.

Bye!

If there's anything, Mrs. Friedrich, just give me a call.

- How is she? - No need for secrecy.

Everything is all right.

- Well? - Don't worry.

Weak women usually have very strong children.

That's how it is.

Doctor, may I-

I know, I know. No need to ask.

I'll look after your wife and the you-know-what.

- Thank you so much. - Don't mention it.

That's the least I can do while you make the world a better place.

Good-bye.

Come back in one piece. That's the important thing.

Hanna?

Come in.

- How kind of you. - The kids brought them.

- Are you tired? - No, sit down.

Shame that you have to leave after we waited so long.

Yes, Hanna.

But maybe that's good.

I'm afraid for you.

Sitting by and not be able to help.

Don't worry.

So many women do it, why shouldn't I?

Yes?

I'm sorry. The door was open, so I-

Come in.

Nice of you to drop by.

My wife has sent a little something.

What a beautiful cake.

- You're wife is very kind. - She is, isn't she?

She just can't show it.

We'll have some coffee. Can you stay for a cup?

- Peter, get Schwarzkopf. - Sure, I'll be right back.

No, don't get up. I'll take care of everything.

I have learned how to make coffee in the army.

Beethoven.

Hello? Peter? The coffee is ready.

- What's up? The coffee is ready- - Beethoven.

Beethoven.

Thank you.

- Hello, Mrs. Wagner. - Helmut.

I thought you'd left too.

No, not yet. But I leave tomorrow morning.

Nice of you to drop by...

but you're probably not here to see me.

- But Mrs. Wagner. - I know.

Inge. You have a visitor.

Come over here and sit down.

Sit.

Inge will be here soon.

I'll just check the mail.

Mrs. Wagner, before Inge gets here, did she say anything?

- Say something? - I sent her a letter.

No, I don't know about that. When did you send it?

A week ago.

I asked her a question.

- If it was important... - Very important.

Really?

Then, she'll want to give you an answer herself.

Ah, Inge's pictures.

- May I see? - They look nice.

Very nice.

- Hi, Helmut. - Hi, Inge.

Nice to see you.

- Oh, congratulations. - Thank you.

Why? Is it his birthday?

Grandma, don't you see? He's been made lieutenant.

- Already a lieutenant? - Already? Finally.

Well, congratulations.

I can't believe it yet.

Little Helmut.

Remember how mad the old Mr. Winkler was...

when they found out that his Helmut had smashed the teacher's windows?

The best part was that it wasn't him.

But he got a good spanking.

And I paid it back to the real perpetrator, didn't I?

But he never told on me.

I didn't know that.

Grandma, there's a lot of things we did.

Cheers, Helmut. To our nasty past.

I had beautiful company.

- Cheers. - Cheers.

Please excuse me, I have to prepare supper.

Will you stay?

Thank you, but I have to see my parents.

- I haven't been by yet. - That's not nice.

- When are you leaving? - Tomorrow at 8:00.

So we won't see you anymore?

We'll see you off at the station.

That's very kind of you. Inge...

and you, Mrs. Wagner.

Seventeen, one wurst.

- Eighteen- - Is it fresh?

Yes, sir, all homemade.

- You want extra? - No, thanks. No more money.

- No, I didn't mean that. - Hey, can you bring bread?

Yeah,just a second. They want some bread over there.

Hang on. Wait your turn.

- Is Schwarzkopf here? - Hey, Schwarzkopf.

Here, take it and hide it.

- But I've already- -Just take it.

- Who gave you the picture? - No one. I took it.

- I thought you wouldn't give it to me. - No, I wouldn't have.

- You see. - What do you want it for?

Just because everyone has pictures...

of the girls they love.

See? That's why I wouldn't give it to you.

Please, let me have it. I won't show anyone.

I hope not. But listen, Helmut...

I don't want you to get the wrong idea.

Not yet, Inge. But you could come around.

We've known each other for so long, and we've been friends.

Yes, and let's stay friends, all right?

All troops are here, sir, loaded for transport.

Please pass along.

All aboard.

Close the windows and doors.

One, two, three.

Darling adieu

Parting I'm blue

So long Marie

I must leave today

Into the fray

So long Marie

But my love abides here with you

But you like him.

Yes, Grandma.

But not like that.

You silly young people.

Real love doesn't happen until you're married.

What do you know about love?

A lot, Grandma. I think I know.

Are you still thinking of that man in Berlin?

You can never fully forget.

Man, look at that.

Man, that was close.

I thought he was going to crash.

The boys aren't bad pilots...

but there isn't any real genius among them, like Koch.

Koch? Geniuses are hard to find.

That's also true of flying.

They should have taken you. You were so good back then.

Three landings, each time a crash.

Don't you get high and mighty. You're one to talk.

I'd like to see you with the stick in your hand ordered to land...

a long freighter like that in such a small space.

That's why I never signed up.

Better a good mechanic than a lousy pilot.

Technical services, at your service.

Well, Zimmermann? When's the plane ready?

In about an hour. Everything will be shipshape.

- What's left? -Just some of the spark plugs.

- Where did you find that? - I made it myself.

I thought you were a fitter by trade.

I am, but in 1 936 we installed the loudspeakers at the Olympic Games.

- You were at the Games? - Yes, sir.

That was three years ago.

- Zimmermann has become a ham radio specialist. - Shut your mouth.

Good business going on 2 years.

Only in your spare time, I trust. There's plenty of work.

Of course, Captain, I just get the Request Concert.

We love it, and so I see that I can arrange it.

- What music will you request? - A march.

""Sky-Blue Bed.''

- One quick leave. - You would say that.

- Have much money for your trip there? - 67.50 marks.

- Boy, you sure have a lot of money. - People help out.

It's the honorable thing to do.

Well, that means me too, right?

- What's today's date? - The 28th, Captain.

Well, here's a 20.

- Thank you, sir. - Carry on.

- Excuse me, Captain. One question. - Yes?

What song would you like?

Well, what would 20 marks buy?

Twenty marks? A whole symphony?

No, let's be modest.

Wait. Request the Olympic fanfare for me.

Oh, that was great. I like it too.

I'll send in the request today.

What an idiot.

- He's right on the runway. - That'll be a disaster.

Man, that was close.

Close? He's a guy, who knows how to fly.

- Look at his landing. - Perfect 3 point landing.

Who's that pilot? I noticed him this morning.

Must be one of the new guys.

Find out and tell him to see me.

Yes, sir.

With you and far from home

WELCOME BUT FI RST BRI NG SCHNAPPS FORTHE THI RST

Will you shut up? I can't hear the phone.

Children. It's here.

- Sausages again? - Or bacon?

- No, he ordered a radio. - Well, what do you say?

- I hope it works. - Of course it does.

Without an antenna. It works no matter where you put it.

In our program for housewives...

we'll tell you how to remove...

patches from old clothes...

without destroying the fabric.

What nonsense. How does that help us?

Get to your post. Do you need an extra invitation?

- I have to get to my post. - I almost forgot.

It really does work.

What did I tell you?

Nice, eh?

- Turn it off. It's my radio. - Get out of here.

Are you the pilot that almost crashed into the tanker?

Yes, Captain.

- What were you thinking? - Nothing.Just full steam ahead.

Really?

- Would you like to fly my plane? - Yes, Captain.

- But not what you call flying. - Yes, Captain.

- How long have been a pilot? - Almost three years.

- Are you married? - No, Captain.

- Engaged? - No, Captain.

- Yes or no? - Not yet.

The main thing for me is that you can keep focused on your job.

Yes, sir.

I'll see you tomorrow at 6:00, Hall 3.

Yes, Captain.

This is German Radio.

Dear Soldiers...

Dear listeners at home...

Dear friends beyond our borders.

We begin our eighth Request Concert for the Wehrmacht...

with the Kurfuersten Calvary March.

Listen. It's like actually sitting there.

What?

You can't hang up the phone, you cur!

Is this the Airman March we requested?

No, it's the Kurfuersten.

Who asked for that, there's no calvary any more.

For you.

- It's from Helmut. - He writes a lot.

Unlike you.

Where are my glasses?

- Should I look in the kitchen? - No, it's all right.

I know where I left them.

Here a special request...

by Captain Herbert Koch.

He would like to hear the Olympic fanfare...

to remember the 1 936 Games in Berlin.

I'll have to put my glasses on a chain.

- What does he write? - Helmut?

What's wrong? Did something happen?

- Happen? - Show me.

""I'm happy as never before.''

You really had me going.

- Did you see my small suitcase? - Why do you need it?

Because I have to go. I only have two hours left.

Where are you going?

- Those 2 got lost again, and we get sent out. - They're in a ditch sleeping somewhere.

Attention!

- Go! - Yes, sir.

Over here.

Come along.

Where's the pig?

Lieutenant.

There they are, on the left.

Come here.

Hey!

Yes, Lieutenant.

Stay here!

Are you crazy? Report back now.

Yes, sir.

Just a moment, sir.

- Reporting back. - What's this?

We have taken these pigs prisoner.

They were alone. We felt sorry for them, so we took them with us.

And all that sympathy made you run off, eh?

Yes, Lieutenant.

Miss Wagner, Request Concert cannot share addresses.

Look for Herbert Koch's letter.

He was mentioned with the Olympic fanfare.

I know. Here it is.

Here you go. If you find him, let me know.

Thank you. That was very kind of you.

- Can you read the address? - Yes, it's all there.

"Captain Herbert Koch, Field Post Number 1 1 1 231 5. Hamburg.''

Koch here.

No, sorry, I can't.

Tomorrow, yes.

No, no.

Troops are ready for weapons inspection.

Yes, of course.

Tell Lieutenant Winkler to take over for me.

Yes, Captain.

One thing, Weber.

I'm not to be disturbed for the next half hour.

Yes, Captain.

Dear Inge...

Heinrich. Where's the hot water?

- Here it is. - But that's not enough.

We need more.

I'm the expert here.

- Is this big enough? - Yes, but we need something to stir.

- Can I help? - You're a musician, right?

Get the radio and turn up the volume.

- Why? - So I don't hear the pig scream.

Here we go.

Bring the sow here. Let's get to work.

What's going on here? Turn off that damn music!

- What are you doing? - We're slaughtering a pig.

- The pigs you snatched? -Just one.

Such a measly one wouldn't survive transport.

- Don't you have enough to eat? - Yes, we do.

But we wanted something extra.

Against the rules. Only the slaughter of sick animals or emergencies are permitted.

- It is sick. It has a fat heart. - Nice try.

Captain, may I suggest something?

Yes.

We could give the pigs to the Request Concert.

Agreed. But how do we get them there?

- You're a butcher, right? - Yes.

- You know how to handle that. - Yes, sir.

You'll take another man, on the next leave...

- off to Berlin. - Yes, sir.

- But the pigs must get there alive. - Yes, Captain.

From your fianc�e?

No, a girl I used to know.

- How many do you have? - That's all nonsense.

- I thought you were engaged. - That's different.

- Does she write? - No, that's the thing.

- Heartbreak? - Maybe it's better this way.

We need a clear head. You're not seeing anyone either.

That's not quite true.

Winkler, you think I hate women, right?

- Captain, I didn't say that. - But you think it.

No, I only think that you must have been disappointed.

No. Tell me Winkler...

how old were you at the 1 936 Games?

Seventeen.

Well, at the Games in Berlin, I met a girl.

- And? - Nothing.

Three days later it was over. I was sent to Spain.

You know how it is, the secrecy, the mission...

no correspondence for months.

After my injury, when I was able to walk again, it was too late.

- Did you never write to her? - I did, twice.

Both were returned as recipient having moved.

So, I gave up.

But that's impossible. When you really want to find someone-

You're right.

But I got a bit discouraged back then.

And you never heard from her until today?

No, until two days ago.

- You found her? - Yes, she sent a letter.

After three years.

You'll have to take my place next Saturday.

- Of course, Captain. - I'll meet her in Hamburg.

Congratulations.

And so we bring some pigs for those who stayed home.

Not bad. But something's missing.

- And it should rhyme. - Like a poem?

Yes. Like ""Morning dawn, see a fawn.''

That's great. And we can sing it.

You, not me.

- Then, I'll sing. - Can you sing?

Sure, at least I'm as good as the ones you hear on the radio.

Let's get started. What rhymes with pigs?

- Figs. - Figs. Not bad.

Okay.

""Looking for figs, we came across the pigs.''

No, that's not a good start.

I was thinking more like...

""In the deep of the night...''

Great. Keep going.

Hang on. Not so fast. I'm no Goethe.

What rhymes with night?

Might, fright... fight?

Yes, fight, that's good. Let's go with that.

""In the deep of the night, we were ready for a fight.''

Great! Keep going!

- Do you like it? - Yes, yes.

Or should I wear this one?

- He'll like you. - You don't understand.

Yes, I do.

But you know...

I wouldn't have chased after your grandfather like that.

Yes you would have.

If you had waited three years...

waiting for him to appear in the doorway...

or hoping to get a letter...

or just a postcard...

just a little message...

and how you would have run.

Well, you must know what you're doing.

- I hope there's a happy ending. - What could go wrong now?

- Do you have the address? - Yes, I have his letter.

- Please post the telegram. - Sure, child...

but hurry up now. It's time.

- Bye. - Bye.

- Have a good trip. - Thank you.

Inge, ask him.

Maybe he knows Helmut.

- Do you have the paper? - What paper?

The one with the poem.

Ah, here it is.

Okay, let's go.

Not so low. I need it higher.

What? I haven't been castrated.

- We played it like this yesterday. - You're crazy.

This is how it must be.

Done.

To be filed away.

Regarding permission to get married, Zimmermann is to see me.

Yes, Captain.

Donations. Time for your first autograph.

- What do I get? - Get! No, give!. Five marks at least.

The rest can wait.

I'll be back from Hamburg tomorrow night.

Take the call for me.

Field Marshal Weber here.

Yes, Major. A moment, Major.

He's asking about the message from headquarters.

Yes?

Not yet, Major.

We'll pass it on immediately, Major.

Communications.

Where's the message from the Gustavo?

- We're decoding the message now. - Read what you have.

Give me the sheet.

Situation at 9:1 8. 40 KM south.

Altitude 6,500.

Light cruiser and six small units at anchor.

- That's all for now. - Thank you.

The big units have disappeared overnight.

As if they'd known that the attack was coming today.

There was a submarine message earlier, right?

- Yes, sir. - I've already filed the message.

- ""Position, grid 40-2 4. - Right here.

Several heavy cruisers and a battleship sighted.

Course 1 95 degrees.

Cruising at 1 8 miles.''

- That could be them. - Yes, for sure.

- Damn. - Maybe we can send the Gustavo.

No, impossible.

It's been going since 6:00 this morning.

Not enough time.

Winkler.

Get the plane ready. We'll go ourselves.

- Set a course here. - Yes, Captain.

- Cancel the car to Hamburg? - Yes.

Work comes first.

Report sent, Captain.

Thank you.

There's no one down there.

Nothing to see.

Then, go...

- course 260. - Course 260.

- Are they here? - Yes, they are.

There. Look at them go.

Right across the bow.

- Pull back. - Pulling back.

Damn, where are they?

- They must be here. - Maybe off to the west.

West there's cloud cover. I can't see a thing.

- Should I push through? - Yes, push through.

Well, there they are!

Two, three, no, five big ones, and smaller units.

Send a report.

Searched for fleet...

and accomplished.

- Long live the fatherland. - Long live the fatherland.

Winkler! What is it?

I'm all right, but I can't move my arm.

- Peter, come here. - I'll manage.

Don't be stupid. Unhook.

I'll take over.

- We're on fire. - Where?

Up on the tailpipe.

Damn.Just what we needed.

- Are you looking for someone? - Yes, I'm meeting someone.

- May I have the name? - Captain Herbert Koch.

That's right. There was a call.

The captain has booked a table.

This way.

- Can I take your jacket? - No, thanks.

I'm sure he'll be here soon.

- Can I bring you anything? - No, I'll wait.

Schaefer has got a piano on board

So the sailors can all sing along

Because everyone here so longs for home

One that he hopes he'll see again

And one young girl is pressed to his chest

Waiting with passion alone

But then he looks out onto the sea

Which is now what he calls home

What is it? The English?

No, a German plane made an emergency landing.

A radio message.

Thank you.

To port.

Here's the camera.

Winkler, what else do you have here?

The lieutenant's gun and his papers.

I'll get them. Ready the boat.

Yes, sir.

- Here's some soup for you. - I'd rather wait.

You should eat. I'm sure the captain has been detained on business.

- You think? - Sure, otherwise he'd be here now.

- Waiter. - Yes?

I'd like to make a call, but I don't know the number.

- Where is he located? - Seedorf Air Base.

One moment. I think I know it.

The gentlemen come here quite often.

- How many flares left? - Six, Captain. The rest went overboard.

- So? - They weren't able to tell me.

Don't worry.Just wait here.

I can't wait. I'll go there myself.

A submarine! A German submarine!

Here, fire the last flare.

They've seen us! They're coming!

- There's even an emergency fleet. - No, it's the fighters. Greet the Tommies!

Schwarzkopf, Friedrich.

You two stay here and look that way.

Only fire when you're attacked. Understood?

- Yes, Lieutenant. - Go.

Hey, Wiedner.

Yes, sir.

- Your unit will turn left at the exit. - Yes, sir.

Tell your men not to shoot before I whistle.

If we lose contact, we'll meet here at the church.

At the church, yes.

If anyone misses his target, he'll end up in the mine fields.

- Clear? - Clear, Lieutenant.

Best of luck. Let's go.

Let's go up on the spire.

We'll have a better view. Come on.

Strange.

As if everyone had just left a minute ago.

It's locked. Should we break it down?

Leave it. The view is just as good from here.

Will you look at that fog?

- I'll make a bit of music. - Are you nuts? You want grenades falling?

It has started.

I can't see anything in that pea soup.

Even better. The others won't see a thing either.

Where's the lieutenant?

Lieutenant?

Let's pick him up.

Where are they? They should be here by now.

The fog is getting denser. They can't see anything.

What if they get lost?

We've been here before.

We're going in circles.

According to the compass, the position is over there.

And where does your compass say the mines are?

The church has to be over there.

Maybe they're already back.

Impossible. They have to come by here.

- Is there no other way? - No, all filled with mines.

- Should we do something? - We must do something.

- We don't have a flare gun. - They wouldn't see it anyway.

- Friedrich. Start up the bellows. - Are you mad?

Start it up, I said!

Field Marshal! Field Marshal!

Listen.

- That's a- - A church.

- Someone's playing the organ. - That's Schwarzkopf. Let's go.

Everyone's here, let's go.

Schwarzkopf, Friedrich, come down here.

Schwarzkopf, come.

You can't stay long. He's lost a lot of blood.

What else can you tell me?

We removed splinters, applied sutures.

If there are no complications, he'll be all right.

- How long? - That takes time.

Two to three months before he can fly again.

- Can he smoke? - Not yet.

Good-bye.

- How are you? - Good, Captain.

- What's the doctor saying? - You're a boring case.

Thank God, so there's hope yet.

- Pain? - It's all right.

- I brought your papers. - Thank you, Captain.

Do you like her?

Pretty girl. Congratulations.

You should meet her in person.

By the way, have you sent a message to Hamburg yet?

No, it's probably useless now.

Why?

I was deluding myself.

I thought...

a girl, young, beautiful, bright...

would wait for me for three years...

- for someone like me. - And?

She has gotten engaged.

I'll get over her.

- Captain. - Yes?

- I have another request. - What is it?

When I go back, will I be able to rejoin the fleet?

Of course.

Even if I'm married then?

Seedorf Air Base here.

No, Major.

I'll pass it on.

- Yes? - May I speak to Captain Koch?

Captain Koch? Do you have an appointment with him?

No, but could you tell him that I want to see him?

- My name's Inge Wagner. - I'll try to reach him.

Is Captain Koch there?

Ayoung lady is here to see him.

No?

He's at the field hospital?

Hospital? Is he injured?

Oh, with Lieutenant Winkler? Thank you.

- Helmut Winkler? - Yes, you know him?

Yes, we're friends. What's wrong? Can I see him?

You have to ask the boss for permission.

- Where do I find him? - I'll give you an escort.

Books, magazines, radio. Anything else?

You'll think of something.

Yes?

What's her name?

Your fianc�e is here.

Inge Wagner.

How does she know I'm here?

Yes?

Send her in.

I sent her a message. Her address was with your papers.

That's great. But you have to stay.

- You have to meet her. - No, lovebirds are best left alone.

Herbert!

Inge.

I just learned that Lieutenant Winkler's been injured and you're with him.

Helmut and I have been friends for a long time. Since childhood.

I know. He's expecting you.

I won't stay long. Where can we meet afterwards?

I think we'd better not see each other anymore.

Why? What did I do?

Do? Nothing.

Herbert, be honest with me.

Inge, maybe you should have been more honest with me.

- A long-distance call, Captain. - Thank you. I'll be right there.

One more thing...

if Helmut asks, I asked you here.

You want to perform something?

Yes, we've written a beautiful song.

That's really great, but what do you expect?

I can't change the entire schedule because of you two.

It won't take long. Fifteen minutes tops.

Fifteen minutes. When we count by the second.

I'm sorry.

But we won't get another leave for quite some time.

And now we have pigs. Who knows when we will have pigs again.

Well then, stay here for now.

I can't promise, but maybe I'll find some time for you.

Yes? Great.

We'll wait in the cantine.

- Is Captain Koch still here? - No, he has left.

Can you make a call for me? I need to talk to him.

No, tell him Lieutenant Winkler wants to talk to him.

It's almost time. It's the Request Concert.

Here it is.

This is German Radio.

This is our 1 0th Request Concert for the Wehrmacht.

We dedicate this to the soldiers...

Werner Hof, Peter Reuel...

the driving instructors and their students...

have donated a fine of 30 marks for bad driving...

soldiers from the Chinook squadron...

an air-defense unit and their commander...

weapons officers...

the German groups...

in the area around Warsaw...

have donated 5,720 zloty.

We say hello to you all, and we'll play your requests.

Stop that music. It's not good for the nerves.

For those who always think of us... We'd like to...

Damn!

We'd like to honor thus.

For those who always think of us...

we'd like to honor thus.

- Are we on yet? - Not for a long time.

- When? - I don't know.

A colleague of yours is on first.

- Did you hear that? A colleague. - Who could that be?

In any night in May

So many things can start

You can easily lose your heart

It's one, two, three, and heyI

In any night in May

Dreams are sure to please

And among the lush green trees

Things come into play

In any night in May

The winds are blowing high

The ship knocks to and fro

Not a star up in the sky

As the tempest grows and grows

Oh, look at him, oh look at him

Look at the ocean ghoul

And if the final mast should crack

We will not see black

For a seaman's nerves cannot be shaken

Not to fear, not to fear, Rosemarie

We won't let the fun in life be taken

Not to fear, not to fear, Rosemarie

If the entire earth should quake

And the world fall in it's wake

Still a seaman's nerves cannot be shaken

Not to fear, not to fear, Rosemarie

Ahoy!

Now the Berlin Philharmonic will play the overture to The Marriage of Figaro

by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart...

conducted by Eugen Jochum.

Inge?

Do you need something?

Sit down with me. I need to ask you something.

Yes?

What is it?

Why are you so different today?

Am I, really?

Maybe. I'm a bit tired from the trip.

Maybe. It's true.

Koch was also strange.

- Koch is your friend? - Yes. You must become friends.

You'll see he's a great chap.

I think he needs someone to help him.

I think we all do.

No, it's different with him.

More difficult.

Inge.

I want to tell you something, but he can never find out you know.

He met a girl in Berlin a few years ago, but they were separated.

Now that he's found her again...

she's engaged to another man.

- What's her name? - He didn't say, and I can't ask him.

You have to tell me the truth, promise?

Yes, what is it?

Helmut, tell me the truth.

- Did you tell Koch we were engaged? - Why? How-

Give me an answer. Did you tell him?

Well...

in a way, we are.

Are you mad because I exaggerated a bit?

- Now I understand everything. - Do you already know Koch?

You know who that girl is he's waited for for three years?

You? You never mentioned him.

I thought he'd forgotten me.

You're up next.

- Do you have the paper? - Me? You have it.

Where is it?

- You're on. - I lost my paper.

- Surely you memorized it. - Memorized 48 stanzas?

- That would be too much. - But you have to perform now.

- Unfortunately- - Do something.

We'll figure it out.

Dear listeners...

a unit on the western front...

has made a donation...

of 365 marks and five live pigs.

Five snatched French pigs weighing 1 1 stone 50..

The two gift-bearers...

Max Kramer and Heinrich Hammer...

wanted to recite a song they wrote...

but sadly they have lost the text of the 48 stanzas.

Shame. But it's the thought that counts.

Captain, your orders have been carried out.

Two pigs, five men-

Two men, five pigs and 365 marks have been delivered to Berlin...

and the pigs are still alive.

That was so beautiful.

We also send our warmest regards to our unit and Captain...

from here in Berlin.

Strange, at home he never opens his mouth.

- Here's the paper. - So you had it after all.

- Can we sing it now? - Yes, yes, but outside.

I'm so glad

I'm no intellectual son

No egghead, no elitist, no big gun

In life it's served me well

For sometimes truth to tell

It's best not to be too smart

Being stupid has it's part

That's why they sent me from Munich to Berlin...

to participate in the Request Concert.

We Bavarians must be part of it too.

In fact, these concerts should take place in Munich.

Yes, because ours is the city of the arts.

But then the Berliners complained...

""Those in Munich have it all...

and we Berliners, modest as we are...

don't get anything.''

So we gave in and let Berlin have the Request Concert.

And Munich will get more butter.

It's nice to come home full of drink

It's not nice when the wife raises a stink

It's nice to sing this bloody stupid couplet

But nicest of all and even more

Let's go.

Apoloner, that's you

Apoloner, that's you

And now for the dads out there...

pay attention.

What you enjoyed doing in spring...

is now back with this wonderful sound.

Sons for our German soldiers...

Martin Kolhas, Werner G�rke...

Ernst Hoheiser, Walter Winkler...

Private Hans-Peter Friedrich-

- Congratulations, a boy. - Well done!

- I didn't think you had it in you. - Congratulations.

Sleep my own prince sleep deep

The sheep are asleep and the birds too

Meadows and fields are in dew

Not even a bee wants to buzz

The moon shines its silvery rays

Down through your window below

Sleep in the silvery rays

Sleep my own prince, sleep deep

Sleep, sleep

Dear soldiers and listeners...

a mother has called...

one of the many mothers...

whose sons have died in action.

His comrades removed his dogtag and sent his possessions to his mother.

The mother has told us...

""I have the notebook of my beloved son...

on the last page, he wrote down a song...

that he loved to sing.

It's called "Good Night, Mother.'

Can I hear it one last time?''

Good night, Mother

Good night

You thought every hour was I all right

You worried, you fretted so

For me, your boy

And when evening came

You'd sing me into sleep

Good night, Mother

Good night

I caused you such worry and fright

But you have forgiven me

You kept watch

Good night, Mother

Good night

- Any messages? - No.

Only Lieutenant Winkler called. He says it's important.

The field hospital.

Give me Lieutenant Winkler.

Yes, this is Koch.

I just got back in.

Now?

- I haven't eaten yet. - I'm sorry.

Can't you just pop in for a moment?

Yes, it's very important.

Am I alone? Yes, all alone.

Inge has already left.

That's why I want to talk you.

I can't talk about it on the phone.

Okay, I'll be right there.

Captain?

He hung up.

Now get out. He's on his way.

- You wanted to talk to me about Inge? - Yes.

Inge has told me everything.

Believe me.

I wasn't going to keep it from you. I was waiting for you to recover.

I know that.

It's tragic that we both fell for the same girl.

But I assure you that the matter is closed for me.

I will not stand in your way.

- You would give her up for me? - Of course.

Besides, it's just a trivial gesture on my part...

since Inge has already made her decision.

But we'll remain good friends, right?

Thank you, Captain.

But it's not what you think.

What do you mean?

Inge is not engaged to me.

- But you want to marry her. - I do, but Inge doesn't.

Nonsense. Let me talk to her.

Right now?

- Inge! - She's here?

Please think about things carefully.

I've done enough thinking, for three years.

I couldn't believe that you could forget completely...

anyone you have loved.

- I didn't forget you. - But you wanted to give her up.

- Wait a moment- - No, if you won't, I'll say it.

- Will you let me talk? - He just said-

That's right. I heard it all.

I was listening at the door.

And I am to marry someone like that?

Helmut, you're a decent guy.

Ah,just let me sleep.

- You'll get one more kiss. - No, not me, him.

There's enough time for Herbert.

THE END