Original subtitles

OCTOPUS 8

THE SCANDAL

SICILY, THE LATE FIFTIES...

- Gianna... - Yes, darling?

- Where's Mum? - She's busy, Paul.

Play with your truck.

Morning.

Excuse me, can I wash my hands?

Over there.

It's been five months since the project was approved.

Even the National Trust has agreed to it.

Everything was ready to start, then...

The council doesn't issue the permits.

What's the hold-up?

You're right, Baron.

But I didn't invent the laws or the red tape.

I can't believe it.

My husband's giving you a unique opportunity.

The project can turn this area into another California.

The factories will employ hundreds of people.

And the dam will bring water to fields and homes.

And at no cost to the council.

It's easy for the Baroness to say that.

She's used to America. It's different there.

It's progressive...

And women stick their noses into business.

You say you want employment and development for Sicily.

I'm seeing a different picture.

The consortium of local firms I'm privileged to preside over

offered you full co-operation, and yet...

the local firms have been excluded from your project.

I have taken the trouble

to inquire about the owners of your so-called local firms.

Here they are...

Agostina Rendo, aged 80, a resident of St Agatha Hospice.

Salvo Mele, aged 75, farmhand.

Tonino Scarò, deceased...

and coincidentally, related to Councillor Silla.

Shall I continue?

What for? Keep digging and all you'll find is trouble.

Who are you to talk to me like that? Are you threatening me?

Sometimes the dog barks when there's no call for it.

We're aware of the respect we owe your family.

We served you for many years.

Ever had reason to complain?

Never. That's why we're here.

So that nobody will ever have to complain.

Maybe a few minor changes would speed things along.

Changes? What do you mean?

For instance, too much importance is given to farming.

And not enough to development.

Oranges grow by themselves.

Sure, when the Lord sends rain.

But in times of drought they shrivel up and people starve.

You're daydreaming, Baron.

These dreams can change people's lives.

We only want to build a few houses

to provide work for people and building companies.

Where would you build these houses?

For instance... in this area.

Here.

There's even a view of the Greek ruins.

You want to build in the archaeological area?

My dear Baroness...

What good are those old stones to our people?

They need homes. Beautiful homes, like yours in America,

with all the modern comforts.

Can't you see that those "old stones" are your riches?

It's no use, darling. They'd never understand.

I left my business in the US and came here with my family

to bring change to this land

and you suggest shoddy buildings and shady deals.

I won't make any deals. My plans stay as they are.

What happened, darling?

Don't worry, madam. He's all right.

He's a brave little boy.

Thank you.

Thank you very much.

Everything's ready. Plans, council approval, lots of money.

He's become a hero to the local farmers.

They only listen to him now. We're left with shit-all.

With a little patience we'll fix things.

I'll talk to the Baron alone.

We understand each other. He won't defy us.

The Baron is a sick old man.

His son is the one who calls the shots.

Even his wife has her say. Did you hear her rattling on?

I've had it with those Mafiosi.

Without those Mafiosi

the commies would have grabbed our land.

You think like them. You fear change.

We have ancient laws that can't be changed.

Your laws belong to the past.

Here... time for your medicine.

Good morning, Donna Rosaria.

Rosaria, come and say hello to Don Biagio.

Saro... take the councillor into town.

Don Biagio...

My respects.

You get more and more beautiful.

Come, Dad, lean on me.

What did you do today?

I did some needlework, then went to the cemetery.

He clings to his daughter like a leech.

He won't let her marry, so that she can look after him.

He's old and sick, wasting away with diabetes.

Why would that stuck-up American respect him?

Do you want those contracts?

I can get them for you.

Now it's time to go to sleep, you little devil.

Good night, Paul.

Mum, can I come with you tomorrow?

You should be grounded. You behaved very badly today.

And you must speak Italian.

All the time.

Please?

Okay. But only if you bring a book to study.

Good night.

Paul is becoming too mischievous.

Next year he'll go to the Jesuit school and mix with kids.

The man who grabbed Paul when he fell...

Who is he?

Don Albanese's stooge.

His name is Pietro Favignana.

His mother was a maid in this house.

I don't like his expression.

He looks disturbed.

He scared me.

You think just like a Sicilian. You see evil in everything.

They have no right to interfere in our business.

Don't worry. They'll never set foot in this house again.

I love you.

I love you too.

"The fair maiden comes dancing from the meadow..."

You're a fair maiden, Gianna.

"This, the most welcome of all days of the week..."

Madam!

Madam!

Paul... I've been looking for him for an hour...

I can't find him.

How could you lose him? Where were you?

He's disappeared!

It's okay, I won't hurt you.

What's your name?

He's dead.

He's dead and no one's telling me.

Stop it. Don't even think that.

Let's call the police.

By the time they show up...

Our servants know the ruins better than they do.

Maybe they've already found him.

It's all my fault...

I shouldn't have let him come.

Barbara, it's not your fault.

- Tano! Still sleeping? - What, Dad?

"What, Dad?"

Here...

Off you go.

Run!

Well done, Tano.

Now go back to the farmhouse.

Tell your father we'll let him know.

SaruZZo! Let the kid in.

Come in, TanuZZo.

What's the matter? Are you afraid of me?

You've grown up.

Want a cigarette?

Go on, take one.

What's the matter? Cat got your tongue?

Is the kid all right?

Yes. I gave him some food.

Good boy.

You must treat him well. He's the son of a baron.

And you? Does your father treat you well?

Yes.

If he works you too hard come and tell me. Okay?

Dad says you must work hard to survive.

True. But you can use your hands or your brain.

If you use your brain, you give orders.

If you use your hands, you obey them.

You have your mother's eyes.

Do you remember anything about her?

Her scent.

See this watch?

Can you tell the time?

When this hand is here, and the other one here...

it will be six o'clock.

Keep an eye on them. At six, do exactly as I tell you.

Take it, it's yours.

The Barons are a cultured family.

They like a bit of theatre.

I can't stand it. I'll go and look for him.

Where are you going? Calm down.

Please calm down.

It's rough terrain out there.

My God!

What does this mean?

Paul's all right.

They won't harm him if we do as they say.

Who are "they"? Where is he? What have they done to him?

- What do they want? - They want us to keep quiet.

They said that if we call the police...

You didn't eat anything.

Don't you like it?

You should eat. It's good.

Why are you crying? Don't be scared.

If you don't eat you'll get sick.

I'll leave it here. When you're hungry...

I look at the facts. The animals who kidnapped my son

know our family habits... they're from this area.

And who gives the orders around here?

You do.

I swear, Don Albanese...

if anyone harms my son, this land will become a battlefield.

I have powerful friends in Palermo and Rome.

One phone call and I'll have the army here.

I am a man of honour, Baron.

A man of honour doesn't kidnap children.

And if they bear the Altamura name, he doesn't touch them.

I want to believe you.

But that means someone is acting behind your back.

You used to know if even a goat was stolen.

The thief was caught and given just punishment.

Don't worry, Baron.

They'll get their just punishment this time too.

Just give me a little time.

Your grandson will be back.

I swear it on my daughter's head.

There are wolves out there. You can't get out. You hear?

Haven't you got a tongue?

- That's mine! - Think I want to steal it?

Can you read what's written here?

Come in, they're expecting you.

I can't sleep at night...

- Please stop it. - Only you can help me.

Please go. They're waiting for you.

And I'm waiting for a word from you.

Pietro...

You're loyal to me, aren't you?

Have you had reason to doubt it?

No.

But I like to hear it.

When you get old you need reassurance, order.

You can sleep easily

if there's someone who respects and obeys you.

Sit down. Have some coffee.

Rosaria, bring him a cup of coffee.

Someone... decided to act on his own initiative.

Maybe he thought he was doing good

but he embarrassed me greatly with people I respect...

and who respect me.

Rosaria, go to bed, it's late.

Pietro...

you have to remedy this situation.

Tell me what I have to do and I'll do it.

Baron Altamura's grandson has disappeared.

You must find him.

And you must return him unharmed to his family.

Then you have to tell whoever took him

that this time I'm going to forgive him.

But next time it will be different.

Now go.

And tomorrow I want you to bring me the news

that everything's been done.

It will be so, Don Albanese.

Not you, SaruZZo. I need you to do something for me.

You're not ready yet?

They're all waiting for you.

Tell them I'm not well.

Try to pull yourself together.

If I'd cancelled the dinner they'd have wondered why.

I can't.

- I can't. - You have to.

They mustn't notice anything. You understand?

No, I don't. I don't know anything any more.

Paul's life depends on a Mafia boss and you seem unfaZed.

Do you think it's easy for me?

It's our only hope.

That man can do more than the entire police force.

Francesco, you must promise me something.

You must give them anything they ask for.

Anything.

Everything will be all right.

Promise me.

I promise.

But now calm down and come and greet our guests.

Answer me or I'll strangle you.

- Pietro did it. - Where did you hide the kid?

Answer me!

At Salvatore's farm... at Acquarossa.

He thinks he's already the boss, does he?

He thinks he can grab everything that's mine.

Very well.

See to it that Pietro is at the farm tomorrow at noon.

And if you breathe a word, you're dead.

- What's this? - I'm tying you up.

- No, please. I'll be good. - I'm following orders.

If you don't, I'll tell you what's in the book.

- Is the kid all right? - Tano's taking care of him.

- What did you tell him? - Nothing. He needn't know.

TanuZZo's bright. He's got brains.

My respects.

- My respects. - At your service.

Would you like to rest?

I'll rest when he's dead.

Archimedes, the greatest scientist of ancient times,

invented solar mirrors to defend Syracuse.

They reflected sunlight onto enemy sails

causing terrible fires.

How?

Give me your hand.

That burns.

Archimedes was clever.

Pietro Favignana!

Quiet.

Pietro...

Come out!

Stay there. Don't move.

Do you want to die like a man...

Or do I have to dig you out like a rabbit?

Welcome, Don Albanese.

Was it hard to climb up here?

It was a long walk.

You shouldn't overexert yourself.

You're old.

Are you craZy?

Nino...

Salvo!

I told you. You're old.

Nobody listens to an old man.

Traitors... You're all traitors.

Then kill me... But be quick.

I wouldn't dare, Don Albanese.

It's the diabetes' fault.

You shouldn't have exerted yourself.

But you insist on hunting...

and on drinking almond milk.

You always liked it.

But it's like poison for you.

SaruZZo! Bring a chair for Don Albanese.

Drink it. And you'll go sweetly.

Turn away. I don't want you to watch.

You're still the boss.

Go on.

Francesco and his father left it to Don Albanese to find Paul.

I couldn't understand, but then I thought...

they know how things work in this craZy country.

I've lived here since the war. I'd have done the same.

You diplomats would deal with the devil himself.

Anyhow, this morning Don Albanese died.

So even that hope has faded.

Francesco is afraid that calling in the police

would put Paul at risk.

I don't know what to do.

It's a delicate situation.

Police intervention could be risky.

Then there's no hope? We just do nothing?

There is another way.

A different way...

Let's say, a private way.

My respects.

Don Pietro...

Out.

Everybody, out.

That man who was here... I saw him at my place.

What did he do to that old man?

- Make him drink poison? - Shut up.

Do you love your mother?

Then yesterday you didn't see anything.

If that man knew you'd seen him, he'd kill your whole family.

If you talk, I'll die. But so will you and your family.

But if you keep it a secret, we'll be friends for life.

No, we'll be like brothers.

You mustn't tell anyone what you saw.

Swear it on your mother's life.

- Swear it. - I swear.

He's harassed me for months. But I always resisted him.

Did you tell your father?

If Father was alive he'd kill him.

Don't talk like that.

It's not too late. There's always a way out.

No, there isn't, Father.

He wants to marry me.

You've just buried your father!

He said the wedding has to be next Sunday.

Nothing's sacred to that man.

What do you think?

I don't think anything. I have no right to think.

- You can refuse... - That's easy for you to say.

Your robe protects you.

But I'm not looking for pity.

When my father was the boss,

no ceremony could go ahead without his consent.

Now Pietro is the boss. He makes the decisions.

About my life too. And that's how it should be.

What happened to your family is terrible.

But it's a sign of the times.

You know about my son. You know who's responsible.

- Where is he? - Calm down, Baron.

I don't know anything.

I listen. Rumours, gossip...

I gauge people's moods.

- Tell whoever sent you... - Baron!

Let's understand each other.

Nobody sent me.

I'm here because Don Albanese had an arrangement with you.

It's not me you must talk to,

but those who bear you enmity.

You'll soon have the opportunity.

There's going to be a presentation

of this wonderful project at the Town Hall.

What better place to clear the air

and reach an understanding?

Baron, all you need is one word.

A clear sign of assent to those contracts,

to those small modifications.

You'll earn people's admiration.

I'm sure that your family, reunited and happy,

will toast your foresight.

That's A, isn't it?

Will you really give it to my mum?

Yes. But hurry up now.

Tell Dad that if he doesn't give them what they want,

I'll have to stay here.

Good morning, Mrs Altamura.

I'm Lieutenant Carlo Arcuti.

I'm here to investigate your son's disappearance.

Who sent you?

The Special Force HQ received a private request

from the American Consulate.

I had orders to contact you.

You're so young. Did they tell you...

That it's a delicate mission?

I know this land very well

even though I've been away for many years.

So you're Sicilian too.

Many Sicilians are law-abiding.

I'm sorry...

I didn't mean that.

No, I'm the one who should apologise.

I understand your anguish.

You're my last hope, Lieutenant.

I feel as if I'm living in a nightmare.

You're not alone any more.

But no one must suspect I'm here.

You mustn't tell anyone. Not even your husband.

Your nanny is lying.

Are you saying that Gianna's an accomplice?

Either that

or she left him alone and was afraid to tell you.

I can't question her. You do it for me.

That girl knows something. Make her tell the truth.

Congratulations.

Best wishes.

- Your little girl's grown up. - Yes, she has.

Pietro Favignana's here.

Well done, Pietro. Congratulations.

Look... You're the one who's risking life imprisonment.

I know nothing. Is that clear?

I don't know what you're talking about.

The kid's in the States visiting his grandparents.

And he'll bring you back those contracts.

Don't let anything happen to him.

And pray that everything goes well.

Come here.

- Did he write it as you said? - Yes.

How do you know?

Don't tell me you've learnt to read.

A little.

Well done, Tano.

You're serving me well. And I won't forget.

Come, I'll walk you to the altar in your father's place.

Cowards!

Did you show Barbara?

I didn't have the heart. She's too upset.

I don't know what to do. She sees me as an enemy.

She thinks I care more about my business than Paul.

She's from a different world. What would she know?

I'd give my life for Paul.

I dreamt about him last night.

He'd just been born.

You didn't see him when he was little.

I n my dream he was crying, so I was holding him.

But he wouldn't calm down.

When I woke up, I wanted to surrender,

give them what they want, get my son back and leave.

Then I thought of those who trust me

and believe in my plans to build something new.

What will happen if we give in to blackmail?

What should I do, Dad?

I don't know.

I don't know what to think any more.

But the child's life is at stake.

It's your decision.

But when you make your speech at the Town Hall...

you'll have to say what they expect to hear.

Leave it.

- How's your father? - Better.

But he won't eat.

They told me someone came to see you today.

Any news?

Did they make contact?

No.

No news.

And you?

Where did you go?

You left early this morning.

I went for a walk to the ruins.

I try not to think about it but I can't.

I've already told you a hundred times.

- You love Paul? - I'd cut my arm off for him.

All I need is the truth.

I don't care if you lied to me before.

I'm willing to forgive you.

But if something happens to Paul, it will be too late.

Accomplices in a kidnapping get life.

I'm not an accomplice. I've got nothing to do with it.

All right. But you must tell me everything.

Everything that happened.

Tell me the truth, then you can pack up and go home free.

It was that boy...

the driver of those men who came to the house.

His name is Saro.

He lives at Tr etorri.

- Ask at the caf é. - Thank you.

Good morning. I'm looking for a hotel.

There are no hotels in this town.

How about rooms to rent?

There are no rooms to rent here.

There must be somewhere to sleep.

You don't get it, do you? There's nothing here.

How do you manage with strangers?

Strangers don't come to Tretorri.

It's a pleasure to meet such helpful people.

Who are you, anyway?

Why are you here?

I'm a labour inspector. The Ministry sent me.

You're wasting your time. We're all unemployed here.

They have no Christian charity.

I've been saying Mass here for 4 years. It goes in one ear...

I asked to be transferred, but so far no reply.

I've got an ulcer and my liver is shot.

Are the sins so great in this town?

What about you? What have you done wrong?

Me? Why?

If they sent you here you must have something to expiate.

It isn't much, but you can stay here.

- The bed isn't very good. - It's fine.

Excuse me, Father...

Do you know that young man I met at the caf é?

Yes. His name is Saro Vicari.

Mayor Albanese's driver?

Maybe.

I heard that Don Albanese died.

Who's the boss in town now?

You've just arrived, yet you know all the gossip.

Anyway, it's not a secret.

Pietro Favignana is the boss now.

But you won't find anything there.

I'll get you a blanket.

Thank you.

- Did you milk the goats? - Yes.

- Did you attend to the kid? - Yes.

Come and have a glass of wine.

- I have to finish this. - Is that the way to answer?

Getting too big for your boots, are you?

- You'll do as I tell you! - Leave him alone!

Don't you dare touch him. Never again. You hear?

I'm sorry, sir.

Get me a clean glass.

I've been walking all day for one hare.

Do you like to learn?

Good boy.

I should send you to school in town. You're wasted here.

There's a stranger in town.

Keep your eyes open.

- Keep me posted. - Yes, sir.

Anyone here?

Anyone here?

Good morning.

I'm here to do a census.

I'd like to ask some questions...

Go away... Leave me alone!

Evening, sir.

You have to come with us.

Someone wants to see you.

Tomorrow. I'm very tired today.

He wants to see you now.

All right... Anything you say.

How long have you been a labour inspector?

Not long.

I used to do clerical work.

Why change? And to come to Tretorri!

Not enough action.

You're right. Life needs a bit of action.

No, thanks.

I have nothing against you.

I blame those who sent you. The politicians.

I mean...

Unemployment in Sicily is worse than in Africa.

And what does the government do?

Create new jobs? No. It sends us an inspector.

That's normal, if there are irregularities.

We noticed the bogus employment of farmhands,

black labour...

For instance, you're listed as a needy farmhand.

Yet, here...

It seems everyone works for you.

Sure! There may be a few irregularities, a few mistakes...

But why go snooping around?

You should have asked me. I have the answers.

Show me those papers.

Let's see what we can do.

Where there's a will... there's a way.

I mean, one tries to give work to the unemployed...

and you want to tax him to death.

Good.

I see that gentlemen understand each other.

I wish you a good journey home.

Here... a donation for the parish.

You can do some restoration.

Where does all this money come from?

Money almost always comes from the devil.

Favignana gave it to me to persuade me to leave.

The devil's money can be used for good deeds.

You must have walked a long way today.

Yes. But I didn't get anywhere.

This town is full of secrets.

You have your own too. You sleep on top of them.

It's safer here.

Take a walk around here.

Could be more interesting.

Why?

Don't make me say any more. I'm just a poor priest

bound by the secrecy of Confession.

Someone's coming!

I'll take care of the kid. You get rid of him!

Keep still!

- Who lives here with you? - My father.

Just you two?

- What does he do for a living? - He works.

Do you go to school?

Can I talk to your father?

What do you want? Who are you?

Hello. I'm a labour inspector.

I'm doing a census on farmhands.

- None around here. Go away. - I just want to know

if you're a farmer, if you keep livestock...

Go away.

What's your name?

I told you to go.

All right. No need to get angry.

Bye, Tano.

- What did you tell him? - Nothing. He saw the book.

Stay with the kid and leave him tied up. I'm going to town.

I've been chosen to speak on this occasion

on behalf of the local farmers, sharecroppers and landowners.

We trust Baron Altamura.

We endorse whatever he wants to do.

Thanks to him we're united instead of squabbling.

Thanks to him a dam will be built

which will bring water to every farm.

It will be like the North

where agriculture is as profitable as industry.

He doesn't realise this is his last chance.

He does.

Stress is written all over his face.

If he keeps his word, we'll all be behind him.

You shouldn't be here. The doctor...

Forget the doctor. Think of yourself and your son.

I wish to thank you for inviting me

to show you what I intend to achieve.

Some of the people here

view my plans in a different way.

I think it's time to clarify once and for all

the criteria I intend to follow to fulfil them.

First, the contracts will be open to tender

and assigned on the best designs and prices.

I n eliminating private deals, we'll avoid any favouritism.

Second, we won't accept any modification, large or small,

that aims to change the nature of the original plans

and reduce a progressive work to vulgar speculation.

Calm down, Councillor.

You must return what you've taken. I mmediately!

I'm not one of your ushers. You can't order me around.

Stay out of it. I'll deal with it.

I know what to do.

Just calm down and stop talking shit.

My patience has run out.

The Baron thinks he can screw me.

But we'll screw him and his spy.

It had a train on the cover

and the title was Modern Times.

- That's his book. - Are you sure?

Oh, my God...

This means that Paul is at that place.

What are you going to do?

Don't worry...

I'll bring him back.

Wait.

Take this.

Paul was wearing it that day.

Everything will be all right.

You'll have some news today.

What?

You forced me to do what you didn't have the guts to do.

A police officer is looking for Paul.

You left me alone. I thought I'd go craZy.

I told EliZabeth and her husband.

They put me in touch with him.

And all behind my back, without saying a word.

I tried to tell you.

I tried to keep calm, to be reasonable, to trust you.

But you were deaf.

Deaf and blind.

If they find out...

they'll kill Paul.

Don't say that.

What's happening now?

The lieutenant has found out where they're hiding Paul.

He has to bring him back.

I'm afraid, Francesco.

Very afraid.

Saro's coming.

Come with me, TanuZZo.

- Want to shoot the spy? - I don't know how to shoot.

You'll learn.

- Saro, is he alone? - Yes. He's coming here.

Let's go and welcome the labour inspector.

But first let's take care of the kid. Salvatore!

What do you mean?

I mean there isn't any kid here.

And without a kid, there's no kidnapping.

Salvatore, get the kid...

and take him to the Pantalica well.

You know what I mean.

Well?

Do you have anything to say?

Pietro...

He's just a kid.

I know.

- Don't shoot. - Don't move.

They're waiting for you. They'll kill you.

- Where's Paul? - They're going to kill him.

- We must hurry. - Where are they?

They want to kill him!

This way, quickly.

What happened? He should be here.

We'll go and get him. Let's go!

- Stop or I'll shoot! - No, Father, no!

It came from Pantalica. Let's go.

It's okay, I'll take you home.

- Come here... - Let me go!

Your mother sent me. Your mother, Barbara.

Wait... Look.

She gave me this for you.

Let's go.

Come on.

They're coming!

Do as you like.

Shoot me.

I said shoot me. I'm as good as dead.

- No, Father. - I'm not your father.

You weren't even three when they brought you to me.

Who is my father? Who?

Let's go. He can't be far.

Traitor... Traitor!

Traitor!

Who is my father?

Who is my father?

Get lost.

Saro!

Take Natale and Salvatore and go that way.

Filippo, you go down there.

Carmelo, you come with me.

- The voices come from there. - Where?

Follow me.

Nothing.

Get up here.

Where's that son-of-a-bitch?

My darling, you're back!

He's fainted. But he's fine.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Keep your hands off, you're just a cop.

Don't worry, he's just a cop.

Don't worry, boys.

Don't touch anything!

Leave her alone.

Go.

Your husband had better show up

or he risks a harsher sentence.

I won't ask you where he is.

Just tell him to come forward for his own good.

He kidnapped a nine-year-old kid.

He was going to have him butchered.

That's what he is.

I don't know what Pietro does and I don't want to.

All I know is that he's the father of my child.

Do you know this man?

- What's his name? - Pietro.

- And his surname? - I don't remember.

Do you know him well?

I saw him in town a few times, in Tretorri.

Ever seen him with your father at the farm?

Are you absolutely sure?

No one ever came to the farm.

Tano... Did your father ever tell you

why Paul was kept a prisoner there?

He never told me anything. He ordered and I obeyed.

What did you have to do with Paul?

Feed him, look after him...

Is that all?

He wasn't allowed to leave because he'd get lost.

When I saw what they wanted to do, I came to you.

And you?

- Have you seen that man? - Yes, at the house.

He played with me. He caught me when I fell.

Did you see him at the farm?

No. He never came there.

Thank you again.

- I'll be grateful to you for life. - Gratitude costs nothing.

Excuse me.

- Baroness Altamura... - I'm so glad to see you.

- I thought you'd left. - I forgot to give you this.

No, you keep it.

So you'll remember us after you leave.

I may not go very far.

They've offered me command of this area.

- Will you take it? - Thank you for coming.

Friends...

I wish to thank the man who saved my son's life.

Lieutenant Carlo Arcuti.

He's the one who saved me!

This boy had the courage to rebel against those

who had destined him to a life of crime.

Not only do I thank him,

but I make a commitment to offer him a different future.

What can I do for you?

Don't be afraid.

My wife, my son and I owe you a great deal.

I want to go to school.

Your request does you credit.

I'll be happy to grant your wish.

And now, my friends, enjoy yourselves.

What have you decided to do?

Will you accept the post here in Sicily?

My feelings tell me to stay...

But reason tells me to leave and go as far as possible.

Which advice do you intend to follow?

What would you do?

I think I'd stay.

I'm going to school... I'm going to school...

Are you sick? Shall I call someone?

No, let them be. Don't spoil their fun.

You stay. You're not enjoying yourself anyway.

Just like me.

My God... All that racket...

all that noise...

It sounds like an old gramophone.

Bring me a glass of marsala.

Do you understand?

Marsala.

My son says that Sicily will become like California.

Francesco thinks he's strong, but he isn't.

Like all weak men, he hangs on to...

to his illusions.

Here.

Can they make wine like this in California?

I never thought I'd see...

the son of a peasant

wearing a tie and shoes.

That music...

- I like it. - Baron!

END PART ONE

OCTOPUS 8

THE SCANDAL

PART TWO

Captain, are you happy now? You've put decent men in jail.

Innocent family men.

We're honest people. While you're the real crook...

A man like you could only become a cop. No guts...

All rise.

Good morning.

In the name of the Italian people,

this court, pursuant to Article 699 of the Penal Code,

finds the accused, Rocco Frustaci,

Santino Cascio, known as Ciaramedda,

Turi Cavataio,

Nicola La Porta, known as Babbano,

Vito Genna, known as Mammadraga,

Antonio Mondella, known as PurcidduZZo,

and Francesco Geraci

guilty of illegally carrying firearms

and sentences them to 2 months' imprisonment.

Pursuant to Articles 56 and 575 of the Penal Code

and Article 479, Paragraph 3, Code of Criminal Procedure,

this court finds them not guilty...

of the crime of kidnapping and attempted murder

due to lack of evidence

and orders their release, having served their sentences.

Order! Order!

Pursuant to Articles 56 and 575 of the Penal Code,

and Article 479, Paragraph 3, Code of Criminal Procedure,

this court finds the accused, Pietro Favignana,

not guilty...

due to lack of evidence.

Order!

...finds him not guilty of attempted murder

on all counts.

Order! Order!

After 40 years, I still can't understand this dumb game.

Whereas my son was a baseball champ.

More American than the Americans.

Vincent had never been to Sicily.

He was so happy when he left.

He was blown up in his landing craft.

What's your daughter's name?

- Maria. - You've got to have a boy.

Only your own blood can carry on what you've begun.

Remember that.

You've been a father to me.

Thank God I'm not.

I'd be too scared to have a son like you.

Was I disrespectful?

Sons who aren't disrespectful are useless.

America is a big country, full of wealth.

But Americans don't know what to do with it all.

They always need something to make them dream.

And that something can be found here...

On the other side of the earth.

It's a flower that makes dreams come true.

And it's cheap to buy.

But when those flowers reach Turkey,

they're worth a hundred times more.

Dried and processed they become something else...

called morphine.

We bring the morphine here all the way from Turkey.

Then we process and cut it.

Those few dollars that you paid for the flowers

become hundreds, thousands...

Ever seen $100,000 all together?

Here.

But the journey is long

and processing it here is dangerous and expensive.

Too many cops and politicians to bribe.

And you're still not safe.

Besides, a lot gets lost along the way

or is stolen by the Turks.

Sicily is close to Turkey.

Our cops know nothing of this stuff...

Good, Pietro.

But the families in Sicily have to agree, too.

They won't listen...

Raise your voice. Show no respect.

You must get their thirst for blood back.

Pietro, are you afraid of dying?

If death overcomes me, I'm no longer around.

But if I am around...

death isn't.

Lord Mayor, Honourable Member,

ladies and gentlemen...

dare I say this is a great day for all Sicilians.

Before your eyes is a dream about to come true.

I'm proud to have lent my early support

to this great project.

When many of my colleagues were sceptical,

I fought for all this to become reality.

I'm not feeling well. I'm leaving.

Wait for Riccardo's speech.

It's the speeches that are making me sick.

I hand you to the Honourable Riccardo Massarino,

newly elected to the Regional Assembly,

who's come all the way from Palermo

to be present at this event.

I've known Francesco since we were kids.

At school, all the teachers told him the same thing.

"Altamura, you're the smartest, but you're a dreamer."

Well, Francesco Altamura has always been a dreamer.

Who else but a stubborn dreamer

would want to turn Sicily into a California?

I thought you'd never come.

Cutie...

The little one's happy because her dad's back.

We're all happy about his return.

- She has her mother's eyes. - No...

She has her grandfather's eyes. Right, Rosaria?

She's tired. Shall I put her to bed?

By all means.

Pietro...

Here's to you and the little one.

May she grow healthy and strong.

- To the family! - Welcome back.

Tano!

Don't you recognise me?

Good boy...

I left you in rags and now I find you a dandy.

He buys you nice clothes...

and pays for your school.

What do you say to the baron?

"Thank you for not treating me like a slave

"and for considering me as one of your lot."

I didn't betray you.

Now that I'm back

you don't have to crawl to anyone.

Is that clear?

Come on.

Where are you taking me?

You mustn't be afraid of me.

You're coming to live at my place.

I'm fine where I am.

At the baron's place?

All right...

Go on, then. You'll soon find out where you belong.

Go, I said. Go!

Tano!

On Thursday, my daughter's being christened.

You'll be her godfather.

Domus also means "family" or "place of peace".

Cicero says domi bellique... "in peace and in war."

Plural... domus, domum or domorum,

domibus, domos or domus,

domus, domibus.

You're blotching your book. Look what you've done.

I'll have to report this to your father.

At this rate you'll never pass the exam.

I can't see. It's all gone dark.

Stop... What are you doing, you little prankster?

I can't see. I can't see.

Paul...

What's the matter, Paul?

- My God... - Tano!

The light's back on!

You hurt yourself for real.

At least I had some fun.

I'm not even going to school.

When I go for a walk, the police always follow us.

- Your father? - Always out at work.

Even my mum doesn't take me with her any more.

- Lately she's been strange. - Why?

I don't know. Sometimes she's sad.

She thinks I don't notice. I even saw her crying.

I've never seen you at night.

I've never seen you fall asleep.

Or when you wake up in the morning.

Ever since that day...

when you arrived with my son in your arms...

I've wished you were his father and we could leave together.

No one can come between us.

No one.

I'm no good at talking about love.

I've never done it before.

It's hard for me to explain what I really feel.

Now I have to go. It's late.

Will you be coming tomorrow?

Tomorrow's Christmas.

I found out how Archimedes set fire to the Roman ships.

It's called reflection using concave mirrors.

- Let's go and play. - I'll join you later.

Boring!

"There's patience in the wild,

"something stubborn, untiring, persistent.

"Like existence itself, motionless for hours on end.

"The spider in its web, the snake in its coils,

"the panther ready to pounce..."

"This is the patience a life needs

"to hunt other lives on which to feed."

I'm sorry. I won't touch it again.

Don't worry, Tano. Bring it down here.

Your teacher says you've made amaZing progress. Well done!

I'm proud of you.

At your age Call of the Wild was my favourite book.

It says you can't change nature. Wolves will always be wolves.

Is that true?

The truth is, men can dominate nature.

That's what books are for.

- I want to read them all. - No need to.

Just read the right ones.

Each book will lead you to another...

It's an endless chain. A life-Iong journey.

You'll remember it was I who set you on the right path.

Thank you.

Santa Claus's sleigh!

You promised me a horse. You promised.

Stop it.

I don't want a television. I want a horse.

- I'm losing my patience. - Wait.

You can have the horse later. Now it would be useless.

You couldn't ride it outside the villa. You know that.

Daddy's decided it's better this way.

It's a wonderful present.

A spoilt child is a ruined child.

I want the horse.

That's enough. Say sorry to our guests.

You must obey your father. Show him respect.

You're all liars, even you. I hate you all.

Straight to your room!

Let him be. He must learn how to behave.

Let's go.

There...

This one goes here.

This one's called Mary.

Just like you.

She's the mother of Baby Jesus.

Why keep thinking about the dead?

We're your family now.

Put her to sleep and then come to bed.

Come on, darling. Come to Mummy.

Befor e, people in Tr etorri wer e mute.

Now that Favignana's back, they're deaf and blind too.

- Merry Christmas, Captain. - Thanks.

Did you like the cake?

Delicious.

Thank your wife for me.

Actually...

Go home. You can still make midnight mass.

I'll hold the fort.

Thanks.

Mummy, stay here and sleep with me.

I'd love to, but Daddy would be alone.

He doesn't love you any more.

Why did you say that? It's not true.

When he loved you, he used to kiss you.

Maybe he no longer loves you because of me.

No, darling. You mustn't think such things.

Now try to sleep.

Everything will go back to normal. I promise.

I promise.

This is the present I brought you from New York.

It fires 200 rounds a minute.

You'll each have one.

The police can only dream of these.

But... you must learn how to use them.

Practise every day, just like soldiers.

Because as of today we're at war.

Shit, no one's going to stop us now.

When they smell blood,

the tough will follow us

while the weak bow their heads.

And those who were in charge will realise they're finished.

We'll decide who should work and who shouldn't.

What gets built and what gets knocked down.

We'll decide who should live and who should die.

And whoever's on my side must be prepared to kill...

and to die.

What's the matter, Saro?

You have doubts?

Speak up. I want to hear everyone's opinion.

You've been away too long. Things have changed here.

Bloodshed is out. It's too dangerous.

Too many have turned their backs on us.

So I've heard.

Councillor Silla...

After I left, he made an agreement with the baron

and gave him approval for his sites.

They even told the papers I was a criminal.

As if they didn't know!

The councillor is just a spineless creep.

He's only half a man.

I heard something else too.

While your mates were being arrested

you put yourself under his protection.

- That's not true. - He testified in your favour.

You didn't spend a single day in jail.

Now he's hired you as his chauffeur

and promised you control over recruitment at the sites.

I wanted to fix things for all of us.

- True. - Well done.

Congratulations.

I'll forgive you because you showed initiative.

We should all be like him.

Anyway, what's mine is also yours.

I'm on your side.

What a guy!

My finger slipped.

What was his name?

As an American citiZen married in America,

you can get a divorce.

I'll resign from the Force. The letter's ready.

I don't care about scandals or gossip.

They'll send someone to replace me.

We'll leave Sicily.

You, your son and me.

I'm really fond of Paul.

Ever since I saved him, I've felt as though he's my son.

I don't have a family.

You two will be my family. My only family.

Carlo, I came to tell you...

To tell you we should stop seeing each other. I'm sorry.

It's not true.

It can't be true.

The basin will hold one million cubic metres.

Tano, how many litres is one million cubic metres?

One billion.

He's a maths genius.

The money left the bank in Palermo under escort.

To get the loan, I mortgaged all my personal assets.

You're not alone, Francesco.

The finance I promised is on its way.

It's only a matter of days.

The council meeting couldn't have gone better.

Now our friends control the Party majority in Sicily.

Nationally, Sicily's votes can determine who'll be minister.

We want new men at the helm,

who have the South's progress at heart.

Rome will send a lot of money

and you'll be the first to benefit.

Hide the car!

- Where shall I look? - Look there.

Will this be shown on television?

It'll be on the news throughout Italy.

I'm proud to have supported this project from day one.

It's fertile land. It just needs irrigation.

Its colours will change.

The red of oranges, the yellow of lemons,

the white of almond trees, vineyards...

If we can start work on the port

we'll be able to create thousands of jobs.

I phoned earlier. Where's Tano?

Tano, hurry up. Let's go.

Wait here.

- Where are you going? - I won't be long.

Here's the godfather.

Get those cows down there.

They're coming.

Hand me a gun.

Move those cows...

Do you believe in almighty God,

creator of heaven and earth?

I do.

I do.

- How many millions are there? - Hurry up.

Come on, hurry up.

Hurry.

Get moving.

It was a great interview.

Thanks for everything. My regards to your editor.

Where the hell is Saro? No one's seen him.

On the mainland, it seems.

He went without telling anybody?

I'll see you tonight at the council.

I baptise you Maria Assunta...

Let's go.

- Captain, this is a church. - I know.

How dare you, Captain? I'm christening my daughter.

You shouldn't even set foot in a church.

Take them to the station.

Honourable Member, who's behind the recent attacks?

Our thoughts go to the victims' families.

I'm still shocked by what happened.

The State will exact revenge. We owe it to those poor men.

Any link between the robbery and the car bomb?

It's too early to speculate. We're investigating.

Was it the Mafia?

Whenever there's a crime in Sicily, the Mafia is blamed.

Does the Mafia really exist?

Our duty is to find the culprits. Forget far-fetched theories.

Will the army be brought in?

What about special laws?

I'd rule that out. Sicily isn't a colony.

We don't want special laws.

God willing, Mussolini's days are over.

Does the Honourable Member fear for his life?

- Show me. - Here.

As you see, everything's in order.

It couldn't be otherwise.

My client and his God-fearing friends

were all in church at the time.

The judge had no option but to order their release.

Let's say I turned a blind eye to your interrogation methods.

You could be charged over what happened last night.

But I can understand your men's frustration.

I didn't mention it to the judge.

And may the Lord forgive you for breaking into a church

without crossing yourself.

Get out. Out of my sight!

Let's go, boys. We're free.

We're all free.

- All free! - Everyone home.

Let's thank our lawyer. The best!

My respects, Pietro. Forever your servant.

Go on, keep laughing. We're free.

We're going home. Is that good, or what?

Let's go.

Do your duty.

I've called five times.

He can't have spent two days in a meeting.

Yes...

I see... I'll call back.

No... The Honourable Member can call me.

Riccardo won't return my calls.

I've just learnt the loans have been blocked by the Ministry.

Without that money I'm ruined.

It's not just the robbery...

The banks fear more attacks.

They won't risk a cent on me.

Do you know what Paul told me the other night?

- That you don't love him. - That's not true.

Why bring that up now?

Can't you see it's the only thing that counts?

We used to be a close family. But now...

We're living in fear. We've become strangers.

Drop everything and let's go away.

Let's go back to America. We were happy there.

It's not too late. But we must leave, I beg you.

It's the only way out, Francesco.

Then I'd be a coward.

I can't run away right now.

I can't give in to them.

Do you understand?

My project must go ahead.

I don't know how, but it must go ahead.

That's what you said when Paul's life was at stake.

What did you get out of it?

I'm leaving, and Paul is coming with me.

What?

For now I'll stay in Palermo at EliZabeth's.

Then I'll leave for San Francisco.

Don't you think I need you right now?

You're free to join us. You know where to find me.

You're embarrassing us, Pietro.

We've always guaranteed law and order.

We've always worked to ensure protection and peace of mind.

And we've been doing it quietly and discreetly.

Because that's the way to make business prosper.

Then you come along and make all this racket.

You've even managed to worry the politicians in Rome.

Those who remember Sicily only at election time.

Sure. If you do nothing, you never make mistakes.

But you remain empty-handed.

There are another twenty bags like this one.

And they're all for you,

as proof of my good faith and respect for you.

And you can have the new guns too.

Along with the explosives I got from America.

I'd say he's gone far enough.

We should teach this arrogant lad

what respect really means.

You have nothing to teach me. Everyone knows how you live.

You harass starving farm hands and shoot goat thieves.

You still have time to get out on your own two feet.

Calm down. Easy...

I want to hear this lad talk.

Very well, then.

I n that case, we'll resume this conversation later.

When we're alone.

As you wish.

Right, then. How about listening to Pietro?

Let's hope he has convincing arguments for us.

More than convincing...

A fortune in government grants is about to arrive.

A gift to the South.

What are we supposed to do?

Kill hundreds of policemen?

Rob all the armoured vans and all the banks?

There's no need to.

We just talk the companies who get that money

into taking us on as partners.

Then we'll have access to the money in Sicilian banks

where we have many friends.

We'll take that money

and invest it in a new business.

Then we'll give it back to the government.

I nterest-free...

Meanwhile, it's grown a thousandfold.

What business can make money grow that much?

I n Sicily this is worth 10,000 lire.

This is powder...

magic powder.

If bought wholesale in Turkey,

it turns this 10,000 into 100,000.

Then, sold on the open market in the States,

this 100,000 comes back to Sicily as one million.

And all of this will be ours...

if we stick together.

With just one mind thinking for all of us...

and imposing respect and obedience

on all the families in Sicily.

"As I write, I can still see those young men

"killed in cold blood.

"Seeing them, I felt like choking.

"I'm overcome by nausea at all I see around me.

"This land that devours its sons...

"The selfish fear I feel for my child...

"Even this absurd romance which has brought us together.

"It's painful to admit it, but that's the way it is.

"This mad violence has opened my eyes.

"For too long I'd toyed with a senseless dream.

"I'm not strong enough to tell you directly.

"Maybe I'm a coward.

"But I fear I won't be able to look you in the eye."

Hello...

May I speak to the baroness?

I see... She's not in.

It doesn't matter.

Thank you.

"Now I'll stay with my son, away from you.

"Away from my husband, whom I both loathe and pity.

"I pity him for his lost dream.

"For what he's going through after the attacks.

"I loathe his stubbornness and quest for power.

"His losing sight of the important things in life."

- What are you reading? - The story of Don Quixote.

I finished the book on wolves. I really enjoyed it.

Books are a waste of time.

What I told you was bullshit.

Wolves will always be wolves, even if they read and write.

I should be at the consulate in Palermo...

I should be there with my wife and son,

toasting and celebrating.

Barbara's Sicily is no more.

Ancient Greeks, Romans, Arabs...

It's all dead and buried.

The way I went about my wife and son was too often wrong.

How long has it been since we were together?

They no longer recognise me.

Everything has a price.

Barbara's right.

We should go back to where we were happy.

Santino, get the car ready.

I'm going to Palermo.

Barbara!

- You look stunning. - Thank you.

Why isn't Francesco here yet?

I don't know. I'm not even sure he's coming.

He doesn't like parties. And at a time like this...

Please excuse me, Riccardo.

Are you craZy? What are you doing here?

I can't bear the thought of losing you.

Of living without you.

Without your eyes, your voice...

Carlo...

After all that's happened

do you still think you can carry out your plans?

Try.

Drop everything. Resign.

Tell my husband you can't protect him

as you're in love with his wife.

Tell the Force you have to drop the investigations

to follow your lover.

Or desert your post

and let others avenge the deaths of those boys.

No... you can't do it.

I know it, and you know it too.

Francesco!

You're here at last. I must talk to you.

I have great news.

Maybe I've found a way to solve all your problems.

Seen Barbara?

She's out in the garden.

But I must talk to you now. We must decide tonight.

We'll talk about it later.

Farewell, Carlo.

It's all over.

Did you find Barbara?

- Are you all right? - Yes, I'm all right.

Good.

We're starting to see light at the end of the tunnel.

The loans could be available shortly

but it all depends on you.

There are powerful friends here who want to meet you.

They're here to discuss a solution to your problems.

- Are you listening? - Of course.

If you convince them, your project is saved.

They're only after a sign of goodwill from you.

There's a saying among us politicians.

"If your enemies are too strong,

"the only way to beat them is to join them."

Let's go in.

Mr Torrisi, lawyer...

Dr TreZZa, head physician at the AnnunZiata Hospital...

and Mr Santostasi of the Development Bank.

We too, like yourself and the Honourable Member,

hold Sicily's future at heart.

Your project to make it more attractive and modern

should not be shelved.

Many things are changing.

Today, thanks to our dear friends' support,

we have the chance to seiZe this opportunity.

Thank you.

But what's the opportunity?

To involve powerful players in your project.

People who have been hostile to any modernisation plan

but who have now understood the urgent need for it.

For the good of us all.

Without the consent and support of such players,

no project is feasible in Sicily.

As you yourself have recently found out the hard way.

What do you mean?

The time has come to change strategy.

There's no point fighting violence with violence.

That's just a vicious circle.

The solution is for those players...

to be made to share responsibility.

How?

By getting them involved.

Getting them involved in what?

I have exhausted my role as a politician.

You can work out the details among yourselves.

See you later, Francesco.

Our proposal is very simple.

We're ready to pay off all your debts.

A trusted bank will refinance a new limited company.

This new company will be granted the finance

which the Honourable Member promised us.

But this new enterprise, still in the name of the Altamuras,

should be willing to take in new partners.

What new partners?

I n your area there's a person of great skill

with whom you've clashed before.

But now he's willing to offer all his influence and power.

I'm talking about Pietro Favignana.

- Favignana is a criminal. - A criminal, eh?

You're exaggerating.

He's had a few brushes with the law

but he was regularly tried

and always came out squeaky clean.

Without Favignana on side, you can't build a chicken coop.

Besides, why bring up old grievances?

What really counts is to look to the future.

Please excuse me...

I'm not feeling too well.

Don't worry, Baron.

Get some fresh air. It will do you good.

Think about it...

Take your time. We don't need an immediate answer.

But bear in mind that what we're offering

is much more than a mere business proposition.

By accepting, you'll be one of the few in Sicily

who can really control things.

Daddy...

Mummy was looking for you.

I've missed you a lot lately.

Not so hard, Daddy. You're squashing me.

Paul...

Remember the horse I promised you?

If you come home with me, we'll buy it tomorrow.

- You'll really buy me a horse? - Yes.

Go and tell Mummy.

Francesco... They told me you were here, but I couldn't...

It was my fault.

I got caught up with Riccardo and certain friends.

You look wonderful.

I've never seen you looking so beautiful.

Thank you.

I've been thinking hard these last few days.

You were right.

A trip to the States would do us all a lot of good.

I'll join you, if that's all right with you.

Of course.

I'm happy about this decision of yours.

I think it's the right choice.

You could stay here and arrange the trip.

We'll board the ship in Palermo and have a great cruise.

I'll take Paul with me.

I'd like to have him at the villa while I clear my desk.

I've felt very Ionely these last few days.

That's fine.

But shouldn't I come too?

No, it's more practical this way.

Welcome, sir. The baron is expecting you.

What are you doing, Tano?

Playing hide-and-seek?

Come here.

I want you to take me to the baron.

There's just one more thing...

Tano, get another book from the library.

Books are a waste of time.

What he learnt today is worth a hundred of your books.

Come on...

Captain Arcuti has it in for you.

He wants you in jail.

The captain is like a dog baying at the moon.

He has sharp teeth too, believe me.

It would be better for us all if someone pulled them out.

- You mean... - You know what I mean.

Right now, that's too risky.

The authorities would feel obliged to react.

There are other ways. We'll have him transferred.

Let's say it's a personal favour to seal our agreement.

I see...

It's a private matter.

Then consider it done.

I have a request too.

You must return something that belongs to me.

Tano.

He's coming with me.

He'll never set foot in your house again.

- How's Paul? - It's nothing serious.

The doctor said it's just a cold.

- Welcome back, madam. - You may go now, Rosalia.

How are you, darling?

Where have you been?

I'm here with you now.

I saw him, Mummy.

Who?

He was here in this house.

Who was?

They were together. Daddy kissed him.

Daddy?

What are you saying?

I saw him at the farm where I was held prisoner.

The same man who wanted to kill me.

Why is Daddy his friend? Why, Mummy?

You rotten bastard. Stay down there.

I n his home town, he was mayor, priest and cop.

He put fear into everyone's hearts.

He said he'd rip my heart out.

Your olive trade gave you power.

Now you've given up the ghost in olive oil.

You felt sorry for him, didn't you?

If I'd let him live...

he would have killed me.

Remember this.

Never leave unfinished business behind you.

I know you heard a lot of nice talk at the baron's

about kindness, honesty and the law...

A wolf wears sheep's clothing...

to get among the sheep and attack them.

Cheer up. We won't be long.

Let's go.

Good.

Please sign here, Mrs Altamura.

What happens now?

At the appeal, things will go differently.

Will Paul have to attend?

Not if you give evidence on his behalf.

Up to that day, everything must be kept secret.

Of course.

It would be better for Paul not to stay at the villa.

Take him to your friends in Palermo.

Leave him there until it's all over.

- If there's anything I can do... - Thanks.

I'd like you to meet someone close to my heart.

By all means.

Tano, come over here.

This is Tano. One day he'll take over from me.

I n a hundred years, of course!

Good on you.

Here. Buy yourself two cakes and keep the change.

I like the boy. He's got sharp eyes.

You haven't met Don Antonio SpicuZZa.

- I'm honoured. - The pleasure is all mine.

I knew your father when he was a kid.

I remember when, before leaving, he said to me...

"Antonio, I'm going to America

"where the footpaths are paved with gold."

Footpaths paved with gold...

Let's move over here...

- Golden footpaths... - I n America!

It's hard to predict what fruits this agreement will bear,

but I assure you

our children and grandchildren will remember this day

as the beginning of an era.

A time of wealth and prosperity for all our families.

And for this you must thank the tenacity, the courage...

and, why not...

the audacity of Pietro Favignana.

Pietro Favignana, I've a warrant for your arrest.

Come with me to the station.

Don't worry. It's only a stunt.

Captain...

Now you're overstepping the mark.

I can see more egg on your face.

We'll see about that in court.

This is for Paul Altamura's abduction.

- Take him away. - Who helped you set this up?

- Maybe some whore... - Move!

Some filthy whore... Yes, some filthy whore!

Anticipation is mounting

over Pietro Favignana's appeal

against the charge of abduction and attempted murder

of Paul Altamura, son of a famous landowner.

Santino!

The case was reopened following revelations...

Turn that thing off.

It's just another wasted effort.

I bet this secret witness

is another publicity stunt by our beloved captain.

I don't see why.

He's done a lot of foolish things, that's why!

The van robbery, Councillor Silla's murder...

all took place under his nose.

He's really disappointed me.

I wonder why our handsome captain is so preoccupied.

- Aren't you eating? - I'm not hungry.

You're never hungry.

You never feel like a walk. You never want to sleep.

I've gone to sleep on my own for weeks

while you read in the library.

I also wonder why you're so preoccupied.

I'm sorry. I'm not feeling too well.

Our informer said the child won't testify.

His mother will do it for him. Legally she can.

Then tell Turi I want them both dead.

Not so loud. And calm down.

I'll calm down when they're dead

and I've had that captain skinned alive.

You'll get your revenge. But not now.

Your name would be written all over their corpses

and you'd rot in here.

You have to get me out of this place.

Those who accuse you today will set you free tomorrow.

- What do you mean? - Pietro...

There are weapons that hurt more than guns.

You said it would only take a minute.

You Americans are always in a hurry.

You miss life's little pleasures.

I have a message from my client Pietro Favignana.

His trial starts the day after tomorrow

thanks to the revelations of a mystery witness.

- You are that witness. - How dare you...

I skipped the preambles. Spare me your act.

We know everything you'll say. Word for word.

What do you want?

I like you Americans because you're so practical.

You scratch my back, I'll scratch yours.

You call that business.

Get to the point.

If you confirm your son's testimony,

you'll get Favignana a life sentence.

But you'll also sentence somebody else to death,

with no appeal.

Somebody very close to your heart. Captain Arcuti.

He can hide anywhere... be protected by a whole army.

One day someone will find him and carry out the sentence.

They have a long memory and they never forgive.

Do you understand our deal?

You retract your statement.

Say it was your son's imagination.

From that moment onward,

no one will ever raise a finger against the captain.

One last thing...

Favignana wants you to know

that someone else had also sentenced the captain to death.

Another deal, just like ours.

Who?

You know, Sicilian men are all the same.

They can't stand being cuckolds.

As a man, my client couldn't refuse the deal.

But now things have changed.

If you ask him to save your handsome captain...

Favignana wouldn't decline.

He'd never make a lady unhappy.

Your husband will understand and come to terms with it.

Who is it?

It's me.

What is it?

Nothing...

Nothing at all.

I love you, Carlo.

I love you.

I love you, and I'll love you forever.

Swear you'll tell the truth, the whole truth...

- And nothing but the truth. - I swear.

Captain Arcuti, you forwarded to this court

an affidavit from a witness

who claims to have knowledge of the fact

that the accused arranged and carried out

the abduction of young Paul Altamura

and later ordered his killing,

which you yourself prevented.

Is that correct?

Correct, Your Honour.

The witness's identity has been kept secret

at your request and due to exceptional circumstances.

But the time has come for this person to testify in court.

Will you tell us if this person is present here in court?

Yes, the witness is present.

Will you point the witness out?

It's the baroness Barbara Altamura.

You're craZy. What's this all about?

Silence!

You may step down.

I call Barbara Altamura to the stand.

Don't go.

Your name, please?

Barbara Altamura, née Greenberg.

Swear you'll tell the truth, the whole truth,

and nothing but the truth.

I swear.

I n your statement to Captain Arcuti

you declared that you were told by your son Paul

about the time he was held captive.

- Do you confirm that? - I do.

Your son also said, without a shadow of a doubt,

that the accused was his kidnapper.

Do you confirm that too?

No, I can't confirm that.

Silence... Silence, please.

Mrs Altamura, please explain.

My son never mentioned the name of the accused.

The fact is, I made certain assumptions.

Lately I've had time to think it over...

I can't have someone convicted just because of my suspicions.

That's absurd, Your Honour. She's been intimidated.

I ntimidated by whom? Only you knew her identity.

Please!

Mrs Altamura...

Have you been subjected to any pressure to retract?

Please remember you are under oath.

No, it was my choice.

Your Honour, will you ask the witness

whether she was induced to lay these false charges?

- What do you mean? - I mean...

that you may have been induced to accuse my client

by someone who had a strong influence over you

and who wanted Favignana behind bars.

Madam...

Were you subjected to any such pressures?

None whatsoever.

Captain Arcuti stated publicly

that he would not rest

until he managed to get Pietro Favignana locked away.

Your Honour, could you ask the witness

whether it was the captain who induced her to lay charges?

No!

I put it to you that he did so

in view of the affair you're having with him.

Resume your seat!

I'll ask the questions.

How is this relevant to this trial?

I respectfully maintain

that such a situation can explain everything.

It can explain why an innocent man is behind bars

and why there was an attempt to pervert the course of justice.

However, I'm here to defend Pietro Favignana

and not to accuse Baroness Altamura.

I therefore ask you to answer under oath

whether you and the Captain are involved

in an extra-marital affair.

Mrs Altamura...

answer Counsel's question.

No.

Where are you going?

Wait. Let's talk.

Barbara, I'm ready to forgive you.

- To start again. - You, forgive me!

After you asked a mafioso to kill your rival!

Barbara, I was out of my mind. I didn't want to lose you.

We were all out of our minds.

Me more than anyone else.

Goodbye, Francesco.

- Madam... - I can do it myself!

Tano, what are you doing here?

Why the long face? Your friend gets out tomorrow.

He's not my friend.

If Favignana is free, it's your fault too.

You're scared of him. You're running away.

I'm not running away.

I'm going back to Rome where I'll be punished.

Whereas Pietro Favignana can only be punished by God.

Little Tano...

is your son.

What's the matter, Tano? Why are you crying?

I was thinking of my mother.

She died when you were still a baby.

I too was a baby when my mother died.

I don't even remember her face.

My father said she came down from heaven,

delivered me and went back up again.

- You loved your father... - He was my whole life.

- I wanted to die with him. - I nstead, you got married.

- That was Pietro's idea. - With blood still on his hands.

- What blood? - Your father's blood.

- My father was ill... - He exploited that fact.

I saw him with my very eyes.

What are you saying?

He forced him to drink from a bottle

until your father started frothing at the mouth.

Pietro was laughing.

Then he said "Now your property is all mine.

"I'll marry Rosaria before they bury you."

He killed him, just like he did my mother.

It's not true. Not true...

Go away!

Why didn't you bring our daughter?

It was you who killed my father.

Act on my instructions.

I know the law. I want to go all the way.

Keep me informed.

Goodbye.

Tano, what are you doing here?

Pietro Favignana is no more.

But you must abide by the pact you made with him.

Your dream is all but finished...

Baron.

- What do you want? - Only two things.

One for me, one for my sister Maria.

Your sister?

Place her with the nuns and give her a lifetime allowance.

You'll treat her as if she were your own daughter.

And for you?

You taught me that knowledge beats anything.

I want to go abroad, far away from Sicily.

To the best school there is.

So you'll never hear of Tano Cariddi again!

Paul, someone in that car has a present for you.

I'd have been lost without you. Thank you. See you soon.

Where's Paul?

Just a minute, Baroness. I'm a police officer.

The court has given custody to the father.

You can't do this. I'm an American.

That's right. You're free to leave.

Your husband hasn't laid charges.

What shall I do, madam?

I'd like to see you dead.

Welcome back.

Take her luggage to Villa Altamura.

Subtitles: Roberto Stevanoni Mary Anne Slavich

Subtitles @ SBS Australia 1998