Original subtitles

I KNEW HER WELL

This has been "Music in the Footlights."

It's 3:30 p.m.

Here is the news.

A U.S. Senate delegation led by Majority Leader Mike Mansfield

has arrived in Bucharest for a 24-hour visit...

Quick, Captain, please. I'm late.

"Make haste slowly."

Thanks, Captain.

HAIR SALON

Giorgio.

Thanks.

- Won't I look older? - With your hair streaked? No!

All the older women are doing it to look younger.

I'm not saying you're old.

Even younger women do it to look cuter.

Oh, never mind.

A manicure too, right? - Yes.

What polish —

There.

Sorry about that.

Oh, right.

Careful!

You never turn off the sign.

5,700 lira. Some take!

I paid the night watchman too.

My wife pulled in 7,000 at the shop in Rome,

even though the whole city is away on vacation.

But here, in a vacation spot, you're twiddling your thumbs.

The heat was brutal today.

But you're always so pretty and fresh.

Get rid of that!

Couldn't you be more gentle?

The clouds and the moon

Speak to lover's hearts

Very well.

Give me a kiss.

You men are all alike.

You take me for some kind of fool.

This isn't my first caper...

He sure is a good actor, and I like tall men.

I knew a guy just like him in Pistoia.

Maybe a little shorter.

A wonderful guy. I had such a crush on him!

It's a weekly thing with you.

"This guy's wonderful, that guy's wonderful..."

He'd buy the movie tickets and I'd buy the ice cream.

And you let a catch like that get away?

...and throw me to the police

to save your hides, you're mistaken.

You've got a vivid imagination. Stop worrying.

Up top, please.

- You'll earn a bundle. - Depends on your point of view.

Better to be clear right from the start.

Just think about how to get your hands on Professor Orsinico.

It won't be easy.

Though in Argentina people always spoke very highly

of Mr. Perego.

- Want a ride? - No, thanks. Gino's here.

Bye. - See you tomorrow.

FABBRI ARMCHAIRS

Finally! What was showing? Gone With the Wind?

Almost. It was over 2 1/2 hours.

Nice to meet you. Adriana Astarelli.

Is she English or American? - She's a foreigner.

What did he say?

Nothing. He makes it all up.

You just don't understand. I speak English very well.

Tell them about that Canadian girl. Remember?

How could I forget? She had great legs.

Bravo!

Show all the foreigners what you're like.

Forgive him. Italian guys are all knuckleheads,

like these two.

Must have been the war.

Every new day

Brings a new world with it

And every love that dies

Is the end of a world

But another guy

Is waiting for me

What would he do

Without me

I love you so much

But I'm going back to him

It's too late

Too late for us

- She's lucky. - Who?

That girl. She's lucky to be in Italy.

Excuse me, but where are we?

That's different. She's a foreigner.

This is abroad for her.

At least let me breathe!

Everything must be different when you're abroad.

You're independent. People take an interest in you.

You're more free. - Depends.

In Belgium they threw a friend of mine in jail.

I get so mad when you act like you don't understand.

Go on. Don't get upset. I know what you're getting at.

And I know what you're getting at!

One more kiss

But it will be our last

Good night.

I'll have to live

Without you

Back home they say God doesn't see

the sins of lovers beneath the pines.

Then I guess we're lucky.

But we're not lovers.

Who knows? If we got to know each other —

In fact, Susan...

I think I'm falling in love with you.

You're such a liar.

Wait a minute.

Now I've really had it! Enough joking around!

Turn 'em off!

Darling, don't be so touchy.

There's a cigarette in there. Could you light it for me?

Little boys still playing your silly pranks.

You're just sore 'cause you fell for it.

You be quiet. I'm not talking to you.

Ouch! Don't wound me like that!

There was a cyclist. I had to swerve.

A cyclist right in the middle of the road.

I can sense when a girl's got what it takes.

It's like a Geiger counter in my head.

I have a nose for it. Great! There it goes.

Did the power go out?

No, it's this elevator. I avoid it if I'm in a hurry.

It's no use. The buttons won't work.

Concierge!

- Like they're gonna hear you. - Well, what else do we do?

What do we do now? - Someone has to call the elevator.

Kid, run upstairs and call the elevator.

You there!

Little rat!

- It's moving! - It has a mind of its own.

At least it's moving. I once got stuck for half a day.

They had to crank it by hand.

Goddamn piece of shit.

"We introduce to our readers," etc., etc...

"Adry Astin, promising young starlet

with a brilliant future

in cinema and TV."

"She enjoys —" Goddamn it!

"...swimming, tennis, and horseback riding..."

- Is he talking about me? - Just be quiet.

"and knows —"

Knows what?

"English...

French..."

- Happy now? Trust me. - "...and Spanish."

Right. And German.

German too.

She's right.

"And German."

She's already signed

a contract

with an important production company..."

I'll throw this thing out the window!

"...for an upcoming film."

Make it two.

There! That part's done.

I can only hear on the left. What did you say?

I said none of it's true.

You gonna teach him his job? He gave Alba Dantez her start.

Who's that?

You're asleep in your own little world!

Good morning!

Hey, I know her!

Yeah? Who is it?

Ah, Jenny Flower. From Sulmona.

Three years ago, in Castellammare.

I remember she was right in front of me.

Jenny Flower sent her pictures to all the papers.

It cost her a fortune, and not one was published.

See how important an agent is?

Great shot! - You can't pose like that!

That's the way to go. All natural.

They can't publish that!

But it gets around, with her phone number on the back.

They see her and call her.

But no, not you!

What's this picture say, with your skirt and bra?

You look like a nun!

Gimme a cigarette. I don't have any on me - I'm trying to quit.

Get that, Cianfanna.

- No matter who it is? - Go on!

Morning, ma'am. Come in.

- I need money for groceries. - Wait there.

- Sit down, ma'am. - Don't get up.

We're almost done.

Is there much more to go? - I'm done.

- Where's the caption for the picture? - Here.

See all the lovely young ladies?

If you don't make it with copy like this,

I'll cut off both my... ears.

The shops are closing.

If I shop now, I can cook it for lunch.

The things a man puts up with!

I said to wait... so wait!

Can't you see I'm working? For chrissake!

Don't worry. It's all show.

See her? She puts on all kinds of airs.

You get all the snooty types in this biz,

when they should really be patient and try to go along.

Life is hard.

Everything Okay?

Wait a moment.

- When will it come out? - Thursday, right?

- It's biweekly now. - Oh, right.

You'll be on the back cover. That's 10,000 lira.

For printing costs —

linotype, rotary press, and so on.

You got anything smaller? - Just that.

- Ready to go? - Yeah, okay.

Good-bye, ma'am.

How will we settle up? - I'm always here.

- But last time - - I'm not going anywhere.

I don't have change. Go on.

I'll be back!

- It's late now. - I'll take you to that nice restaurant.

Happy? - It's so expensive.

But the food's great.

We both know you never could cook...

What are you doing? You're really something!

Our omelets!

Yes, that's much better.

Come on, behave!

Take a deep breath, miss.

What?

You mean him? He couldn't care less.

Right?

See? You thought he was jealous?

Then again, who knows?

Even waiters have hearts.

Let's trade places.

I'll fix the omelets and you sit next to her.

What are you doing, Dario? Stop it.

Why? Think I can't fix an omelet?

First off, it needs more cognac.

Don't just sit there!

Put your arms around her. Put one hand here...

and kiss her.

Forgive him. He's always kidding around.

The people you see out these days. Look at that!

You like omelets? I'll fix you one too.

Here I am... right in the moonlight.

You were right.

It's more fun without a bathing suit.

Where are you?

Am I supposed to talk to myself?

Put me down! People will see!

Put me down!

I'll drown you, I swear!

Did you call me?

If I'd known you were nuts, I'd never have gone out with you.

Why do they stack the beds?

So the cops think people sleep in them.

Like they fall for that!

- Come look. - What is it?

Look over there.

- Is he dictating something? - Quiet!

Here she comes. - That's just his big belly again.

Maybe she's pregnant.

- I can't help it. - Then laugh quietly!

What are you doing?

Let's close the blinds.

- Have you seen my boyfriend? - No, I just came on.

Have a good shift.

He left?

Yes, before 8:00.

Here's the bill.

- He didn't...? - No, he didn't pay.

Roberto, tell them to change the sheets in 19.

Room 19 will be ready in a few minutes.

Listen...

I can't authorize that. I'll get my mother.

You sure this is a good color?

Of course. Solid colors are better for the movies.

We've used it with lots of other actresses.

Really?

Then it's fine.

Let's hurry or we'll be here all night.

On the set, miss.

What's she wearing?

A bathrobe would have done just as well.

- Camera. - Slate.

Associated Footwear...

"Safari" model.

Lift up your dress.

Action.

Slowly.

Turn around.

Slowly but confidently.

Now step on the tiger's head.

Good. Stop.

You could never hold on to anything for long

Not even a sincere smile

Though you had the whole world

In your hands

You lost everything, even love

Tossed aside without a care

Now you're left empty-handed

You could never hold on to anything for long

Not even an honest friend

You had so much and always gave it away

To just anyone

You lost everything, even my heart

Tossed aside without a care

Now you're left empty-handed

Now you know

No one ever comes back again

And I'm not the same man I was

It's no use thinking of me now

Now, with tears in your eyes

You ask for a little sincere love

A bit of love for your heart

That feels troubled and alone

But there's no one to offer you so much as a flower

No one to reach out

To take those empty hands of yours

Hello? Yes, it's me. Who's this?

Who?

I really don't remember.

Who gave you my number?

I did?

I couldn't have. Where?

Yes, I was there for a month or so,

but a long time ago.

No, I really don't remember.

You work in film...

and we talked a lot at the bowling alley?

Like old friends?

I'm drawing a complete blank.

Of course, if I saw you again, I have a good memory for faces.

As you wish.

If you like.

I don't think I'm busy today.

Let me think.

No, it's fine.

Canova's? Okay.

Good-bye.

Wait! What's your name?

If we really want to have fun

There's no better dance than the Letkiss

With a smile, a song and a dance

You'll be happy with me

The Letkiss is easy to learn

Let yourself be kissed

A few steps back then come closer again

And let yourself be kissed

Roberta, listen to me

Come back, I beg you

With you

Every moment

Was pure happiness

But I didn't understand

I didn't know how to love you

Roberta, forgive me

- Hello. - Pumpkin!

Have you come to see Adriana?

The babysitter is late, and I have a driving lesson at 11:30.

Don't worry. Pumpkin can stay with me, right?

If you're going out, I can leave him with —

No, I have no plans.

No, sweetie, don't cry.

What's wrong?

She'll put it back on.

He does the same with me.

He cries when I take off my hat.

Then just wait.

Wait.

Watch.

I'm putting it back on.

Doesn't the lady look funny without her hair?

Bye, sweetheart.

There we are.

Thanks so much. I'll hurry back.

Don't worry. He'll be good company.

Good-bye.

Adriana's little treasure!

You know, I wasn't really free.

I was supposed to meet a guy at noon

who'd love to be in your place right now.

He works in film and invited me out to eat.

But because of you, no "dinner" today.

No, "dinner" is at night. What's the word for pranzo?

Languages are very important.

I had an English friend who could speak Italian just like me.

Of course, to learn really well, you have to live there.

You're lucky. At your age you learn quickly.

This thing's hot. I'm taking it off.

I forgot. Wait a minute.

One, two, three...

One, two, three...

Watch your head!

Come on, Strucchi!

Hey, you!

- You have to stand there? - I'm press.

Fine, but I can't see!

Read about it in tomorrow's paper. Can you see now?

Send him home, ref!

He'll tear you apart!

Lunk, you're done for!

Come on, Lunk!

Give it all you've got!

Watch your head!

Not like that!

Strucchi, Strucchi!

Punch him in the belly!

Run while you can, Lunk!

Your attention, please.

The match was won in the fifth round

with a knockout by Adolfo Strucchi from Montefiascone.

In the intermission before the main event,

the Amorose fashion house will present its fall line.

Adriana!

Come on, people! Behave!

Watch it! Don't you have any manners?

I fell down. Big deal! Sorry!

Will you settle down? Show some manners!

Settle down!

...wearing "Fallen Leaves," an elegant evening gown

made of chantilly lace in dark green.

Bad luck for sure!

A classic line —

Will you let me talk?

The cape, in soft Australian broadtail fur,

is an exclusive creation, lightweight but warm.

Tell us her address!

Give her a big hand!

A satin weave in imperial jade. - What color are her panties?

with a hat in Siberian wolf fur.

"Sunset Over the Bosphorus" in pink cady,

high-waisted with a sumptuous fringe.

Is it expensive?

- Hey, what's your name? - Mario Pessi.

- You got a cigarette? - Can't you see I'm working?

...with a fringe in pearl and jet.

And now an elegant gown in black chiffon with wings —

- You look fabulous! - ...worn by Miss Adriana.

Alias "Big Butt"!

You always gotta make a comment?

Just a minute. Adriana, spin around.

- Get down! - I gotta work, don't I?

Her name's Adry Astin. I'm her press agent.

You think anyone cares?

"Flight of the Hydrangeas."

She looks like a butterfly.

Butterfly, butterfly...

There she is, sir.

Where's the car with the other girls?

- They took off. - But we all came together!

They thought you'd left.

- Because you told them so. - Me? No.

- I know you! - What?

You only hear what you want to!

It's my fault those crazy broads left?

You just happen to be waiting with a friend

who's "a great guy," right?

It so happens he's driving to Rome. I could ask if he'd give you a ride.

But do as you like. - You bet I will!

I'll go with who I want. I don't need pimps like you!

I created you, and I can destroy you.

Some thanks for all my favors!

I don't need your "favors"! I fell for that at the beach!

You told me that guy was queer,

and he took me right to a hotel room!

Thanks a lot!

Did I offend you?

That's okay. My regards to your brother.

It didn't go so well, sir.

Her idiot brother came to get her.

I'm the idiot for listening to you.

Why's that? I guess I can sit in front now.

You know the old joke about the soccer player who never scores?

I mean on the soccer field!

His "friend"!

- Ah, it's you! - Good evening.

I was getting scared.

Does it hurt a lot? Here?

No, I'm used to it by now.

Sounds like this happens to you a lot.

That's boxing for you.

- You were in the hall, right? - Yes, I was rooting for you.

I kept shouting...

"Come on, Lunk!"

That's your name, right?

No, my name is Emilio Ricci.

They call me Lunk 'cause they say I'm slow.

I'm sorry.

But you landed a lot of great punches.

I only remember the ones the other guy landed.

You really like boxing that much?

It takes a great passion to get pounded like that.

Passion, sure, but there's the money too.

I earned 80,000 tonight. I make more boxing than at my regular job.

What do you do?

I'm an errand boy at the market,

but I'd like to open a grocery, and that takes a lot of money,

so when a match comes along —

I think a boxer should always choose

a weaker opponent than himself.

That's what the other guy did!

It hurts, huh? It sure is swollen.

I bet you can't even whistle.

- See? - But I don't need to whistle.

What a swindle! I pay a fortune for 15 years,

and when I get a cavity, the national health system tells me,

"We'll yank it for free, but to save it will cost you."

- So you had it yanked? - Of course.

- I think it's a good thing. - What is?

The national health system.

My sister had twins, and it didn't cost a lira.

I have a sister too.

Is she married?

I don't know.

I don't think so. Probably not.

She's younger than me.

No anesthetic either.

Anesthetic would have cost me.

See there? - Yes, I see a hole.

Know what I told him?

"So God forbid I hurt my leg. Would you amputate

instead of saving it?"

Is your girlfriend happy you're a boxer?

I don't have a girlfriend.

She's pretty! So you do have one.

I can tell you the truth.

I saw that picture in a photographer's shopwindow...

and asked if I could have it.

You don't even know who it is?

Express for Chiusi-Florence-Pistoia leaving from track one.

There's a train to Pistoia.

- Weren't you going to Rome? - Yes...

but instead of waiting another two hours —

I haven't been there in so long.

I'm going to Pistoia!

Thanks for the company.

Sorry! I forgot.

Bye, Lun- I mean, Emilio.

Don't let them beat you to a pulp!

Hi, Adriana.

Mom told me about Stefanella.

I wanted to write to you, but where?

She took me to Sant'Oreste last time in the buggy.

At the station she was thirsty.

I bought her a beer. She said it was bitter,

that it needed sugar.

Five years ago.

Did she grow up to be pretty?

We hadn't seen her in two years either.

Now it's out! It's all my fault...

for sending her into town to be a nun,

as if the illness couldn't kill her here.

She was considerate, not like you.

She did your work and your brother's too.

It wasn't fair. Better a nun than to live my fate,

spending her whole life in this hell.

But God brought us this misfortune too.

At least he drowns his sorrows in wine.

Pay no attention. She's tired. She's not thinking straight.

Put this on. We're not in the big city here.

Very good. Now the mocking laugh.

Remember the E sound this time.

Use your head voice!

With your chest voice, it's not a mocking laugh

but one of astonished delight.

"Me, afraid of you?"

That's a mocking laugh.

Whereas "What's that? Dona Matilde has a lover?"

That's astonished delight.

Now on to "The Fan."

Susanna, Moracchio...

the maid, the baron...

Evaristo, and Giannina.

I'm playing Evaristo? Isn't there another woman?

Any character is fine for working on diction.

Begin.

What is it, Giannina? What's wrong?

If you only knew, Signora Susanna!

I don't think there's a greater boor in the world than my brother.

I am what I am.

"I am what I am." With a closed A.

What are you trying to say? - Two mistakes in one word!

- While I'm your guardian - - My guardian?

I hope for not much longer!

You always torment this poor girl.

He goes over to her and takes her hand.

- Don't read what's in parentheses! - She doesn't deserve it.

Poor Giannina!

When you're my wife, he'll torment you no longer.

Very good.

But the vowels aren't right —

the E and the O.

"Letter" and not "later,"

"loafing" and not "loving"...

Everyone together.

God only knows what you girls are thinking.

How can a girl like you, with every advantage —

young, pretty, with a nice figure, single —

keep falling in love with so-called "wonderful guys"

and getting in trouble like some silly country girl.

Good thing you came to me.

There's one mixed-up girl

that I won't name whom I've helped 15 times!

They're not cheaper by the dozen!

That's just being irresponsible! I mean, please!

And if I kept it?

I don't believe I heard correctly. Say that again.

Keep it? You know what that means?

Good-bye to everything.

Your hands will be tied forever.

You could pay a family to raise it,

though it's hardly worth the cost.

But if you want to support a stranger all your life who'll later grow up

to hurl recriminations at you, be my guest!

Who's stopping you?

Maybe you're right.

Who knows?

But it still makes me sad.

What are you talking about?

It'll be over in a flash. By tonight you'll have forgotten.

I don't think I've ever steered you wrong.

I found this apartment, didn't I?

When it's fixed up, they'll all be jealous.

And I got you a real deal on that fur stole.

I'll pay you the rest on the 15th.

This is no time to be worrying about that.

It just makes me mad that a girl like you -

Other girls I've helped are riding in Jaguars to opening nights

and wearing rings even Grace Kelly never dreamed of!

And they don't even have your looks.

Feel that. Firm as a rock.

I know men who'd sign over their factories, employees and all,

just to be with you.

Listen, I'll take care of you.

No, I've never been interested in earning money that way.

Things get complicated, and you're forced to -

Now you're making me mad!

That's a bunch of nonsense.

If you were some virginal saint,

you could stand on principle.

But you go with just anyone.

You're like the prize at a charity raffle.

You don't even know who the father is!

True, but this is different.

I get emotionally attached to each one, so I -

But being so calculating about it —

Besides, you could get some ugly old guy

who never takes you out to have fun or go dancing.

Rheumatism is a sign of wealth.

Handsome young dance-floor Romeos don't own factories.

I'll handle it. Stay here till I call you.

Hello, Doctor. Come in.

Is there no table here?

Yes, the marble table in the kitchen.

No! You disgust me!

Get your hands off me!

You disgust me! Let me go!

Cowards!

The people they bring in here!

Excuse me.

All the way back. Have the guard announce you.

Would you know what this is about?

- Ask the inspector. - You don't know anything?

No. You should know.

I'm afraid I do.

- Do you know a certain Marchionni? - Marchionni?

I don't think so.

You don't think so.

Have you ever seen this man?

That's Dario!

Right. Dario Marchionni.

You don't seem too concerned with their last names.

Aren't you ever curious?

Recognize this?

So it's about that hotel bill!

Thank God.

You recognize this bracelet?

- Yes, it was a gift from Dario. - Marchionni.

You know where Mr. Marchionni got it?

With a gift you don't ask a lot of questions, right?

Is it okay to smoke here?

No rule forbids it.

But I forbid it. - What?

You were saying?

That you shouldn't accept gifts from men

when you don't know their last names.

I hadn't known him long. He just hadn't told me yet.

You could at least introduce yourselves before sleeping together.

What's that matter?

Why? Where'd he get it?

From the jewelry box of a 50-year-old woman -

"pretty and still attractive," writes my colleague in Naples —

who's charged him with theft.

Over a little bracelet?

And a little ring, a little watch, a little money -

And he didn't even pay the bill at the Calypso!

Don't worry. He'll pay, all right.

What are you going to do to him?

Nothing for now, since we can't find him.

Thank God.

Don't misunderstand.

I know it was wrong, but he was so nice.

- The jails are full of nice people. - I know -

I agree, Inspector,

but if you knew him,

he's a wonderf-

He's really crazy!

I'll get to know him. Don't worry.

By the way, if you find him,

tell him to call me, okay?

What I wouldn't give to be your father right now.

What time do you have?

The time is 9:26 a.m.

Yeah, right.

- Did you say something? - When? I don't remember.

You'll have to autograph one for me, okay?

You really have a great job. Gives you satisfaction.

By the way, I saw your picture in the paper.

320 Pages!

You write a lot! - Like everyone who has nothing to say.

- What's that mean? - Forget it.

Don't you have a radio?

Why?

The songs get on my nerves,

and I can choose my own soap and toothpaste.

You know how to dance?

Swim? Then what can you do?

Nothing.

Well, those things aren't so important anyway.

"Today I had an unusual experience worthy of note.

I met Milena, a beautiful and exciting girl."

Who's Milena? - Nobody. Leave that alone.

A girl I knew long ago.

And you're putting her in a book?

Maybe.

I told you to leave that alone.

- Why? - It's none of your business.

She was like lots of other girls.

I bet you slept with her.

It's not that hard with girls like that.

- I can tell she liked you. - Liked me?

Trouble is, she likes everything. She's always happy.

She desires nothing, envies no one,

is curious about nothing.

You can't surprise her. She doesn't notice the humiliations,

though they happen to her every day.

It all rolls off her back like off some waterproof material.

Zero ambition. No moral code.

Not even a whore's love of money.

Such language!

Yesterday and tomorrow don't exist for her.

Even living for today

would mean too much planning,

so she lives for the moment.

Sunbathing, listening to records, and dancing

are her sole activities.

The rest of the time she's mercurial and capricious,

always needing brief new encounters with anyone at all...

just never with herself.

I'm Milena, right?

Is that what I'm like?

Some sort of dimwit?

On the contrary.

You may be the wisest of all.

Your cigarettes and newspapers, Professor.

Thank you.

Call me when you're ready for me to clean.

Is your name really Antonio?

Why? Does it sound silly?

On the contrary. Santo Antonio is my town's patron saint.

Well, will you come dance with me?

Yes, I'm coming.

- My first drink since New Year's. - How come?

They kept serving me Strega, and I got so sick -

Are they looking for you?

I thought you were here alone.

You just ditch them like that?

They do the same thing to me

if they meet someone more interesting.

That reminds me: Tell me your last name now.

Otherwise it can get awkward.

Would you like it if I wrote you from Zara?

- Of course. - But you have to write back.

Now things get complicated.

You know why I like you?

No. I'm just happy if you do.

You're easy to be with. You're mellow and relaxed.

With you a guy can feel free and at ease,

like with a buddy.

I could take offense, you know.

I knew you wouldn't understand.

Yes, I do.

Anyway, I'll write even if you don't,

and I'll call too.

Rome? Yes, I asked for Rome.

That makes five! Good thing the other girls make fewer calls.

Marais residence?

Is Antonio there, please?

Ah, he's out.

Please tell him Adriana called and that I'll be back tomorrow.

No, tell him I'll call back tonight.

Can't his lordship spring for a long-distance call?

Yes, tonight after 9:00. Thanks. Good-bye.

Anyone ever tell you you're a jerk?

Anyone ever tell you you've got it bad?

Your dry martinis, the way you like them.

Thanks, Andrea.

Seems they know you here.

I stayed here while my parents were in Lugano.

Tell me the truth. Did you come here

these past ten days while I was gone?

No. A few times in the past.

The past doesn't matter. What about recently?

I swear I haven't been here in three months.

Partly because —

Well, I can tell you.

Besides - - Besides what?

Well, I have to tell you anyway, because I need a favor.

You see...

my sister has this classmate.

I've known her for two years, but she never caught my eye before.

Then, a month ago, we all went on an outing -

And she caught your eye.

Don't get me wrong. I've never so much as touched her.

But ever since then,

if I go a day without seeing her or talking to her -

What can I say? Maybe I've fallen hard.

It happens to everyone, right?

Yes, it does.

What's this favor you need?

Her parents get suspicious

if they hear a man's voice on the phone.

At home I have the maid make the call.

Now you want me to.

Not if you mind.

Why should I mind?

Well?

Ask for Cristina. Say it's her friend Gisella.

But if she answers, pass it to me.

Hello?

I'd like to speak to Cristina.

This is Gisella.

She's coming.

Hello, Cristina?

Just a moment.

Thanks.

Hi, darling.

How are you?

What did you do today?

Come on, don't be silly. When can I see you?

Can't you find an excuse for tonight?

Tomorrow morning? At your English lesson?

Call me tonight when your parents go to bed.

No, I prefer talking at night. I feel closer to you.

- Did you clean the inside? - Inside and out.

I also checked the tires, oil, and water.

- This model doesn't use water! - Damn! I always forget that.

Miss, you need a bigger car or a smaller dress.

Hush! You've no right to talk after the water goof.

I meant in the battery.

Sure. Good night.

- Hi, Paganelli. - Excuse me.

Barbara. - Back in a minute.

He's finally here.

I told you he'd show for 150 grams of gold.

Where's Elis gone? Look for that idiot, will you?

Roberto, everyone's waiting!

We're using first names now?

Any later and the food would be gone.

It's a nice crowd.

Visconti begged off, but look at the beautiful roses he sent.

You wrote this yourself!

I've heard you're the distrustful type.

Look at people these days. I'm too trusting.

You and I keep running into each other.

Our guest of honor, Miss Elis Stendhal.

Stendhal! Where do you get these names?

- Hi there. - Good evening.

You're a cutie! Where are you from?

- Trasaghis. - Where's that? Turkey?

The province of Udine.

"Howdy, y'all!"

- Shall we go upstairs? - Let's.

I've seen you somewhere before. - Me?

Maybe you saw my mouth at the train station.

What?

In an ad for lipstick.

Just my mouth, 17 feet high.

Good Lord! Just imagine if you made an ad for panties!

Hey, boys!

Roberto's here!

Roberto, look this way.

That's enough now! Come on.

Haven't you taken enough pictures?

- Roberto, how are you? - Hail, Bagini!

I'm no fascist, but his palms are always sweaty.

Let's do the award first. Then you can eat.

One moment, gentlemen.

Turn that thing off, please.

What are you doing?

Ladies and gentlemen,

since the nicest and highest-paid actor — Can I say that?

If there are no tax people here!

...has honored us with his presence,

we want to give him an award.

It may not be as impressive

as the lions and palms he's already won, but it's given

with fondness, admiration,

modesty, and if I dare say, brotherly affection.

Thank you.

The award will be presented

by our lovely guest of honor, Elis Stendhal.

What an honor!

- Hold it there. - It's a lovely plaque.

Kiss him again.

- Kiss him again. - Now a shot of the plaque.

- Speech! - Say something, Roberto.

Well, the first thing that comes to mind...

has to do...

has to do you with you, my dear -

Paganelli!

That happens sometimes on these occasions when -

Especially when there's a sense of intimacy that's so -

- Intimate. - That's right.

What a nice man!

He worked for my company in 1948.

He was a backup dancer. I gave him his start.

So all in all, with this -

- Award. - Yes, this award.

Hey, you said it would be 300 grams!

Good one!

Thank you, sweetheart.

Thanks. I mean it.

Excuse me. Excuse me!

Leave him alone now! - Hey, Bagini!

What a pleasure! Excuse me, will you?

Dear Bagini, how are you?

It's been ages. How are you?

Just fine.

I mean... I'm okay.

Roberto, I'm really struggling. I can't go on -

Listen, who was that girl?

What girl?

The one next to you in black.

- She thought you were nice. - Really?

In fact —

I can arrange a party like this for you too

and get your face out there.

You want to be an actress or not? - Yes.

Of course, there are expenses involved.

The dinner party, flowers,

invitations, an award for a celebrity.

About a half million lira.

400,000 because I like you! Okay?

I'd love it, but that's a lot of money.

Think about it and let me know

so I can put you on the calendar.

To start, I'll set up a newsreel interview

at no charge.

I'll go arrange it now. Wait for me here.

Baghetti!

Cianfanna, I see you hiding. I told you not to come.

Look who I brought. Allow me -

No! You're ruining the atmosphere!

Are you a racist?

I didn't mean her! I meant you! A racist!

You made a good impression. He likes you.

- You think so? - Listen, get me some wine.

- There's a bottle right there. - It's almost empty.

Is he gone?

Adriana.

Baghetti's going to interview you right here.

Do your best, okay?

You know, Bagini was the most sought-after Latin lover in Europe.

He even had a fling with Ava Gardner.

I'll get him to tell the story.

Wasn't Ava Gardner in love with you? - Let's not talk about that!

See?

Tell us about being in The Barefoot Contessa.

"In love"! She just lost her head a bit.

A coup de foudre, as the French say.

She'd call and hang around outside my house.

But you were unyielding. Really made her suffer.

He finally he told her...

"No matter how you try,

Bagini's not your guy."

Only I said it in English.

- Is that true? - Not a word of it!

Bagini, you know Mr. Cianfanna?

- I haven't had the pleasure. - He's producing a film.

That's right.

Bagini could be useful. He's a great actor.

- What can you do? - Everything!

Please sit down. - Thanks.

Have you got a cigarette? - Of course.

Mind you, he speaks eight languages.

Great! I'm working on an American coproduction.

Thanks. But can he — Can you ride a horse?

A real horse, no.

Not too loud or he'll catch on.

Maybe he could just lead the horse.

No, he has to at least get on.

- But he can tap-dance. - Who? The horse?

Ah, him! Sorry. I misunderstood.

- Couldn't you use a variety act? - Sure.

- You can't do better than Bagini. - In all modesty...

- Show us. - Here?

I don't have the right shoes, and it's carpeted.

Do your best. Just give us an idea.

My best?

You either do it or you don't.

This is a unique opportunity.

- Is on the table okay? - Just what the scene calls for!

Hear that? You're a lucky man!

He gets off his horse and climbs up on the table.

Hold on! Announce the number first.

My old standard: a train.

- Quiet now. - Steam or electric?

He has to concentrate.

That's it. With his beautiful white shoes.

The train's still in the station.

It better pull out soon.

Seems it's a local.

He once hit 25 mph.

That's it!

Observe the elbow action!

You've gotten rusty. You were better before.

Watch out at those railroad crossings!

Pick it up!

More!

- I told you he's good. - Too bad I don't need a tap dancer.

Give it your all and he'll sign you up!

Isn't his head spinning by now?

No, he could go on all night!

Now he's picking up speed.

- He's a crazy man! - Better than Nureyev!

Come on!

That's enough! I've seen he can tap-dance.

Let him dance! Who cares?

He could do something more entertaining.

That's enough now. At your age!

It was nothing!

- Rest now. - Want to see it again?

You wanna kill yourself? I've seen enough. Sit down.

He was great.

- Bravo! Great train. - For the wrecking yard.

- He's gonna keel over. - Poor guy's out of breath!

She's a sweetheart!

Say what you like: There's only one Bagini.

He tells jokes too. Right?

Come on, tell us a joke.

Gimme a minute.

Miss, why are you in Rome?

I'm here to work.

Come in closer.

Don't look at the camera.

Pan down to her feet.

That's good.

Stand up now.

You're young, pretty, elegant, confident.

You're very kind.

You're sure to be a great success.

I don't know. Let's hope so.

Okay, we're done.

Thanks very much. Good-bye.

My God!

Miss?

Ah, it's you.

Yes. May I?

I just wanted to ask -

Yes?

I imagine you must be very busy.

What are you doing tonight? - Why?

I mean... where are you going after this?

If you're not busy -

Oh, I see!

And you seemed the shy, retiring type!

- Who? - You.

Ah, you thought — Good Lord, no!

I'm exhausted after my little performance.

It's... Roberto.

You made a big impression on Roberto.

It's not hard to see why.

So he wanted to get to know you.

Maybe invite you...

to have a drink with him at home.

His home.

At Roberto's place.

To have a drink together.

Really?

Yes, he's waiting downstairs.

Can I tell him you'll join him?

But...

why didn't he come ask me himself?

I came instead. Isn't it the same thing?

What should I tell him?

No, it's not the same thing. It's not good manners.

And he's not treating you very decently either.

Why should he ask you to do these things?

Me?

I told you before: He and I are old friends.

He worked for me years ago.

There's a certain trust there.

Sometimes he asks me, and sometimes -

Come on. What should I tell him?

No, tell him to come ask me in person.

You're right.

Well?

Well what?

What do you mean? Is she coming?

I asked her.

She says she's sorry, but she can't come.

She has another commitment. I did ask her.

Yeah, right. Another commitment.

You screwed up!

What are you talking about?

Want me to try again? - What's the point?

I'll go try again - though she's hardly worth it.

Roberto...

can't you get me a part in your film?

You should talk to the director.

But if you put in a good word -

I introduced you to Cianfanna tonight.

Come on. I know all about that guy.

I put on a good show tonight. I made you look good.

I almost had a heart attack. I busted my ass!

I even tried to help you score. - Some help!

- It's not my fault she couldn't come! - I gotta go.

- I really need it! - You said that already!

Anything! I'll be your driver!

Get lost! Your breath stinks!

Good evening, miss.

Evening.

Ah, those cigarettes came in.

Sure, give me a carton of Marlboros.

At least you have some company.

What?

- Some company! - What's her name?

I don't know.

Pussycat!

The poor thing's so scrawny.

Italo, what are you doing?

I'm sorry.

I didn't mean it.

Every time you drive in, I sit here thinking about you.

But then I think, "She'd never notice a guy like me."

But somehow... tonight -

Oh, I don't know.

Forgive me. - We'll see.

If you deserve it, I'll forgive you sooner or later.

Good evening, sir.

It's no surprise that even in the jet age,

small prop planes competing in aerial stunts

are still a big attraction.

They're small parts, of course, but I'm through doing ads.

- Really? - Especially after this interview.

- You're sure it's on this newsreel? - They said so.

Yes, I saw the newsreel listing.

"And lastly, a new face."

- Hi, Franca. - Adriana!

What a getup! You look like a model!

Please!

Cigarette? - You want to get us fired?

...seven exciting minutes for the large crowd.

The winner, for his skill and daring —

Why don't we go for a pizza afterwards?

Only if you bring it to me in bed.

There she is!

And lastly, a new face.

We introduce Adry Astin, a promising new star...

- Is that you? - Yes.

Let's listen as she tells us about her hopes and plans.

What are you doing on the bed?

I'm here to work.

You think you'll be successful?

I don't know. Let's hope so.

You have a high school or university degree?

I don't know. Let's hope so.

Any historical figure you'd like to play?

Good choice! What director would you like to work with?

I don't know. Let's hope so.

Yes, let's hope this young actress off the streets

doesn't end up working those same streets.

We've introduced to you

a new face with a thousand expressions,

a keen intelligence,

and a refined elegance.

Did you see that?

"I don't know. Let's hope so."

Hi, pumpkin!

Wanna come play with Auntie Adriana?

Not today. We're going to my parents' for lunch.

All right.

See you tomorrow.

Bye, boo-boo.

Not even a shadow

Of the happiness lost

And if tomorrow

And I do mean "if"

I suddenly lost you

I'd be losing the whole world

Not just you

Hold me tight

- Hi, Luciano. - You got a registered letter.

Hold me tight

And forgive me

Come in.

Treat yourself to a movie. - No, thanks.

Nine poses at 30,000 lira each.

What's 30 times 9?

Two hundred seventy.

Not bad.

I'm rich.

- Did you spray water down below? - Why?

My dad was in the concierge's office.

He sent me to check.

I said it was the woman on the third floor.

- You lied. - I don't like that woman.

- What about me? - I like you.

What a sweetheart!

Can you dance? - Not really.

I've tried with my sister, but I never caught on.

Shall I teach you?

Follow me.

Don't be so stiff.

Don't drag your feet. Watch.

Tell me the truth

Tell me if something

Has changed between us

Tell me the truth

Hi, Dario!

- Who's that? - Just some girl I met on vacation.

We barely said hello.

How about good night?

Yeah, some "joke"! You're really nuts.

I almost went to jail!

Did that inspector track you down?

Yes, it's all cleared up.

It was a misunderstanding.

A misunderstanding! You're a real swindler.

Where are you taking her later? The Calypso?

Who? Her?

No, she can't stay out late. The nuns are waiting.

Yeah, the Sisters of the Blessed Bordello!

You...

Whom I never thought I'd meet

You...

Who appeared to me in the same old city

You...

Whom I'd looked for all over

You...

Who appeared to me

Amid a crowd of nobodies

You were there for me

Time stood still

And for a moment

We lived life together

You...

I'd known for centuries that you were mine

You...

A gust of happiness for me alone

You...

You'd have given me the impossible

But my moment passed

And you said no

Good morning.

Miss.