Original subtitles

The Comrades

TURIN End of the 19th Century

Omero.

Omero!

Wake up! It's five thirty.

Wash yourself properly. Neck and ears as well.

Stronger. We have to heat up milk.

The coal is wet. The house is too humid.

-The coalman pisses on the coal -Don't swear, pig!

Wake up!

Leave him. He had a stomach ache last night.

That's an excuse not to go to school.

-Not true! -Don't play the fool with me.

I can't read, but this is a perfect zero.

Omero, and the money for the food?

Again? We are in the middle of the week.

This is all that I have.

You haven't washed!

-Good day. -Hello.

Come on, boy, move up!

Keep the 'boy' to yourself.

I'll say what I want...

as long as you are younger than me.

Be careful. I warned you.

Rosetta! Rosetta, I'm here!

What an idea, ask me to bring it with this weather!

When I leave, he's asleep, when I come back, he's asleep.

Have I not the right to see him?

Look at daddy.

See? Doesn't even recognize me.

That way you learn to peep!

Fine manners, eh!

Daddy.

Not even enough time to eat.

Come on, you are always the last!

Negrus, you were on time.

These cannibals swallow without chewing.

Stop the machines! Stop the pulley!

How is it?

The hand is not growing back.

We are gathering money for the comrade.

Always gathering money. Do you spend your lives doing that?

-True. -Don't you want to help a comrade?

-You animals! -Yes, we're animals.

We work 14 hours with only a half hour break to eat.

And after something like this happens we don't even protest.

No, we don't compromise ourselves.

We gather money and that's it. Isn't it, Pautasso?

We're sheep. That's what we are! Sheep!

You know I'm willing to talk to the boss.

If you doubt me, say it, and I'll hit you.

Don't be like that, dad. With words nothing gets done.

How will he live? Off our charity?

We don't even have mutual aids!

I don't like this talking! Martinetti, you didn't answer me.

- What? -I said I'm willing to talk to the boss.

And what do we say?

Dunno, whatever you want.

Say that 14 hours are too many.

Right! We need a shorter journey, or else...

We'll see what we'll talk about. Let's make a Committee.

-I'll lead. -No leaders. You, him, me...

- And I! -No women. Be serious.

We work, we take part in the gatherings...

and we can't protest?

Silence! Have some respect!

You are right, sister. I'm sorry. Let's go to sleep...

otherwise tomorrow we won't do anything.

-Your father is a great man. -Is he?

-What a piece of woman has he made -Asshole!

Dinner is ready for room 3!

Soup and stewed meat with potatoes!

How rude! You've broken my umbrella.

-We're here. -What a gentleman!

Gentlemanness disappears as it's done.

Who'll talk to the boss? Or are we all gonna shout?

I'm not too eloquent. Let him be the one to do it.

All right, I'll speak.

-Where are you going? -We want to talk with Mr. Engineer.

With the Engineer? What do you want with him?

-To tell him something. -Say it to me.

-Is it a secret? -No, no.

We speak on behalf of everyone.

It's about yesterday's accident.

14 hours are too many.

Your lucky you didn't get in. If you told the Engineer such things...

you'd end up real bad.

Everyone works those hours in Turin.

And all the tragedies?

My son, tragedies are tragedies. They happen.

You just have to be more careful.

What has the Engineer got to do with it?

Enjoy it, Mr. Engineer.

Listen. I'm worker like yourselves.

I'm with you. I say it with all my heart.

But you have to be realists. What you're thinking about doing is absurd.

Who put these ideas in your heads?

Come now, speak.

What is absurd...

is to exploit people.

-Well said! -Am I or am I not right?

The names written clearly. The ballots folded four times.

I'll be back.

This way.

-Another gathering? -Are you signing?

-What for? -Tonight we leave early.

Did the Engineer agree?

He hasn't.

We'll protest, like the English.

What are the names for?

We'll draw who will ring the bell...

before the time. We'll all stop working together.

-Are you in? -Me yes, but whoever is picked...

-will pay for all. -The important thing is...

that when we hear the bell, we turn off the furnaces.

That way all the machines will stop.

Come on, Omero.

I can't read.

What a shame! You read.

Who can't write? There's a cross here.

Let's not argue. I'll go.

What's this? What are you doing? Back to work. come on!

Tell everyone. We stop at 19:30.

Tell everyone.

When the machines stop we go home.

Mr. boss!

I need the bathroom.

Yes, I'm ready!

You damned devils...

next to the furnace...

with the cold that is outside!

And you were thinking of leaving early, eh?

-What is it? -Are you sure its our one?

Everyone! Don't stop!

Don't stop the machinery!

-We're leaving. -No you're not.

We're leaving! Didn't you hear the bell?

To work! To work! There's still an hour of work!

What happened? Did they make a mistake?

What are you doing with your coat on?

Nothing. I'm cold.

And this is how we help Pautasso!

-Who rang the bell? -What kind of joke is this?

-What are you doing there? -I was playing with the dog.

You've been in there for an hour and a half

There he is!

Let me shake your hand. You were the only one...

Listen, you're right...

-but let us speak. -I want to speak!

Such friends! You've abandoned me.

They thought I was drunk. 'Been drinking', ¿eh?

'Yes, Mr. Engineer. Almost two pints against rheum.' Disgusting!

-We weren't ready. -Let's form a committee.

-We unite and decide. -Decide what?

They've already decided. Two weeks suspension for me.

And a fine for you.

Let me go!

Well, yes, if we let him go at once. One, two, go!

Remember, the one that signed it with a cross, Pautasso Domenico...

son of Pinot, you can say farewell to him.

We pay you with our salary.

We need to stick together.

-Yes, like the balls! -Always the same fool.

Brute, have some manners!

Bastards! Murderers!

Animal! If that had touched me I'd have killed you.

Excuse me. What town is this?

A shitty town.

What an answer. It's Porta Susa, Turin.

Porta Susa? Thanks.

The rose is perfumed.

The subject is 'the rose'.

'The butterfly is pretty'. The subject is...?

'The butterfly'

The gas men arrived half an hour ago.

-We were late. -I noticed!

I could still be in bed...

but I'm here to help you!

Let's be clear for once. To vote in the elections...

you have to know how to write. It's our beloved government's law.

In theses rough benches you earn...

the right to intervene in parliament.

This classroom has to be centre of our intelligence, of a new...

fresh strength, that feeds an ever...

growing flame, and that we...

Mr. professor, we had a protest to be able...

-leave an hour early. -And you arrive late.

You, Barbero, to the board.

-What do I do? -Write any sentence.

Whatever. Go, go.

I'll be right back. Meanwhile copy Barbero's sentence.

Good night. Walk my dad.

Fine. It's full time anyway.

-How's the study doing for him. -Not making any...

progress because he isn't into it.

Excellent behaviour: Always asleep. But he is intelligent.

Good night. I am Senigallia, the professor.

I was sent by Dr. Pancani from Genova.

This letter is for you.

-Things are bad over there, eh? -At least for me.

-It says here you'll be staying for a few days. -Yes.

Wait until the class is over and I'll find you a place.

-Thanks. -A bad one, naturally.

DEATH TO THE KING

Pero Barbero, what have you written?

A very beautiful sentence!

Lads, I understand you.

But study and culture are not a matter of style...

but of measure, of education, of self-discipline.

Don't be stupid.

Silence! Silence!

Silence!

From today, at the Committee, the here-present Carlino Barbero...

replaces Pautasso who is leaving office.

Begin.

If anyone wants to talk, feel free to do it.

-I didn't understand shit. -Don't swear!

I understood it. My father spoke like that, he was from Bergamo.

He's saying that instead of leaving an hour early...

tomorrow, we go in an hour late, to be united.

That's enough!

Raoul Bertone wants to speak.

Didn't they scorn us after yesterday?

I'll only say one thing. Think well before...

-I want to speak! -Why?

-Because I'm from the Committee and you are an idiot. -Sorry...

but this lad isn't all wrong.

-Who's that? -I don't know.

I'm Professor Senigallia. Friend and guest of your teacher.

Can I give you my opinion?

-We'll listen. -Go on.

Thanks. And sorry for budging in.

I wanted to say that...

you should indeed think it over,...

before taking action. In that he is right.

-But... -Wait up, you gorilla! before taking action. In that he is right.

-But... -Wait up, you gorilla!

-Speak. -Thanks. -But... -Wait up, you gorilla!

-Speak. -Thanks.

You've managed to do the most important part:

An almost total unity among yourselves...

and I know how hard it is to see so many workers...

together after work.

But I ask myself...

Wouldn't it be awful to throw away such a thing...

for one hour's abstention? Think about it.

Not an hour, I'd say, but a day, a week.

Until your bosses realise they are dealing...

with men and not beasts of burden!

What you propose is a strike.

-I don't know, perhaps. -Yes, a strike. It's evident.

Friends, let us go on strike.

And damned be he who breaks it!

No, one moment, please.

Let them choose freely.

If the lad is afraid, he has the right to say no.

I'm not afraid.

All that worries me is the speed with which...

you listen to a stranger. Does anyone knows him?

I've been dealing with these kind of problems for years...

-And all I did was give an advice. -Those for the strike...

raise your hands.

Approved by unanimity, apart from Raoul Bertone.

Louder!

He said he agrees.

A moment, friends, please. One moment.

I, for one, would advise you to be more discrete.

Don't say anything until you have got everything you need...

food, coal and other essentials.

On credit!

Without paying.

One moment, hold on.

I'm telling you this...

because you have to be prepared to resist.

From tomorrow, when they know you are on strike...

no one won't give you credit, they will bang the door in your faces.

You must know this from know.

Today is Sunday! The shops close at noon!

I'm sorry, Mr. professor! I forgot...

Here.

Come cook at my house. We'll have a nice meal.

-Fool! -You always misunderstand me.

-I live alone. -Oh yeah? Find someone else.

-Invite Maria, look at her. -I see, you're jealous.

-I might just invite her. -Do it then, do it.

-How many bags! -A 5 lire debt.

I'll pay you tomorrow. Now I got my hands busy.

Is it true that tomorrow...

Careful! Is it true...

Careful! Not in the face!

Has she seen me on the stairs?

Look, eh. I don't want to be taken for an easy woman.

Let's go in and you'll be safe.

You bastard! Let me out! Go to Hell!

What did you think? The beardy was there!

You pig! You don't fool me!

Good afternoon.

-What are you doing here? -Drying myself. Are you the owner...

of this flat? The Committee has placed me here.

They have named me counsellor...

and I'll have to stay here for a few days.

No way! This is not a hotel!

-Go away. -Don't make such a ruckus.

-The professor stays here. -Then pay the rent.

How can you say that? We must help each other.

You are the only single man with a double bed.

-Cesarina is single too. -What a gentleman!

A guy like that would suit you fine.

Stop fooling around!

This is shameful!

Mr. professor, I put your things in the hat.

-Your little bag got opened. -My 'necessaire'!

The things fell on the floor but I picked them up.

Look, an egg.

Soap.

A sock.

A little brush. Is this yours?

-This tubes. -My flute!

-What is it? -An instrument from the 18th Century.

This horseshoe yours? It isn't?

-It's not mine. -I told you to leave it in the floor.

-He forced me to bring it! -Give it, we'll ask for a miracle.

Let us be given all we ask for!

That the Engineer has a heart attack!

Throw it.

-You hit me in the head! -It's Mustafah.

I'm here to tell you that tomorrow I'll go to work.

-What are you? -A desperate man.

I've been in Turin for 15 days. I have a family...

and nobody gives me credit. -We all have families.

You northerners don't care like we do.

-You are disobeying the Committee? -No, Sir.

I came to ask for authorization. If I'm given it, I won't be doing it.

-What are you talking about? -If you go to work you break the union.

-There was a vote! -Do another one...

and decide again! But decide that you accept...

because I'm working one way or another.

My respects, professor.

Stop!

Did you hear that?

Let's have some understanding, friends. If tomorrow Negrus goes to work...

everyone will follow him, starting with me.

Don't be like that. Make a concrete proposal.

If you are serious, you should give the Sicilian a proper beating...

that way he learns.

If you are serious...

What a world we live in!

The power man abandons his town...

and his starving family looking for work.

Finds it. And what do we do?

We take it from him. We plunge him into misery again.

Is that fair?

Let's teach him a lesson!

Lads, unfortunately Raoul is right.

We either act firmly, without emotion...

or is all crumbles down, right, Pautasso?

I'm Pautasso.

No mercy. We have to be implacable!

-You live here? -Where else?

The Royal palace?

Salvatore, what do they want?

Are you here for my permit to work?

-Swear that you won't work without the permit. -Are you giving it to me?

-First swear. -I swear, maese Pautasso.

Then go.

-They aren't fooling around. -This is it.

Twelve years here. I'd have never expected...

something like this. -I'll reduce their hours.

-You don't intervene? -If they aren't forbidding anyone to work, no.

-We got our backs covered all right! -There goes one.

Where are you going? Don't you know there's a strike?

I have permission from the Committee.

Eh, Bedouin, stop there!

Stop him!

They are fighting.

Good, that someone comes in is a good sign.

-He's in. -Are we gonna be dumber than him?

Let us all go in. Let's go!

Let's call the others.

Salvatore Arró present, sires.

Turn on the machines. I'm ready for work.

What do the others want? What will they do?

That's their business.

Are you defending those bastards?

Those bastards allowed me to come to work.

Ah! So they allowed you?

If that is so, get out.

-I want to work. I'm not leaving. -Out! Out!

-Understood, sir? -Don't touch me! Nobody touches me!

Got that, you ruffian?

Damn you!

Help! Guards! He'll kill us!

Careful! Careful!

-The Arró family? -Yes. What is it?

-What are you burning? -Wet paper.

-What do you want? -I'm from the factory. We gathered some money.

It's little, but we are all doing without.

-Mama! -What?

They sent us money from the factory!

God bless that ruffian you have for a father.

No, I'm not the prettiest!

Good day. Good day.

Carry on. Carry on.

As I was saying, uncle, I think...

There's reason to believe...

the workers won't be able to resist much and it's expected...

What's expected? We are the ones penalised.

With the factory closed, all work is halted.

And I told you not to smoke. It bothers me.

They, on the other hand, get around with their whip-rounds...

and charity aids.

Charity is what I do to you!

Wake up you fool!

We have friends too, powerful ones.

We cut their food supply...

and when they realise who's the boss...

they'll give in. Take note you numbskulls!

Enough. Today is a day of celebration and we...

have talked enough business. Let's go with the boys.

Are you coming?

No, he hasn't got a proper suit. Giovanni will go with you.

Goodbye.

Where do you get the coal?

I place only I know of, don't worry.

Is it far?

Just follow me.

What was your name again?

Gesumina.

What kind of name is that?

The name of Jesus.

But Jesus was a man.

He was neither man nor woman, he was our boss.

Who would he boss about in this dark land?

The land don't matter when you haven't any.

In our country, on the other hand it's all red, green and white.

-Yeah? Then why...? -Watch your step!

Why are you here then?

Don't you know Piamonte is worse off...

since you Sicilians arrived?

My father says that Sicily...

is worse off, since you, Piamontese, got there.

Come on, hurry up!

So only you knew about it? Look how many people.

Any news from my dad?

Don't know.

Careful! Take cover!

There's my dad. Careful, this is ours.

Come give me a hand.

Come on, push.

Help me.

Push.

Come help us!

-Need a hand? -No.

It's very high.

The floor is very hard.

Don't be an arse.

Raoul! Raoul!

Raoul...!

Come on, let go.

Are you crazy?

First you go in then you call me.

And then you hit me. You're crazy!

Eh, come here! What are you doing?

Come give me a hand.

Come on, hurry up.

Aren't there any guards?

Don't worry, The professor is talking to them.

Go to the other side!

Watch your head!

Why are they coming?

You, the railway workers, are a tight union...

and if we all go on strike, solidarity increases.

You don't know what you are talking about.

The railway workers can't go on strike.

They are militarised, they'd be condemned as deserters.

-Will you watch with your arms crossed? -We won't even watch.

Your comrades are stealing coal and I don't see it.

Don't try and go around the barracks...

and come back to the line. I recognise you all.

Still here? This isn't a restaurant!

Enough, corporal!

Madam.

The corporal sent this. This is his soup in his bowl.

-And some bread. -Thanks.

No, that's my bread. It's bitten.

I can see the marks.

This strike is a big disgrace.

Last summer in my town, 5 died of typhus.

-The strike isn't a disgrace. -Ah, no?

There's some left for tomorrow. Thanks.

Watch it, it's hot.

-Tasty. -We are lucky the military help us.

If it was up to the professor we'd starve.

The professor gives us good advice.

He's too old, and I say more, a bit daft.

-You are the daft one. -Omero, Bianca.

Do you know the soup tastes better here than at the barracks?

It's probably the plate, or the house.

My house is like this.

The window is open.

If they smell the soup they will come.

Too late.

Oh, you are eating. Excuse me.

You come from somewhere really warm!

He's Neapolitan.

No, I'm from the North.

It snows a lot back home.

-And there are 'lupe'. -What's that?

-Wolves. -This is mine. Why're you checking my pockets?

I paid for it. Since the strike started I've been keeping you.

And to think that back there we say:

'Those lucky factory workers'.

-I'm not smoking this one. -My grandpa eats cigarettes.

Hey you, if you spit on the floor, you'll clean it up with your nose.

Now sweaters are soft.

Before they used to sting more than nettles.

-Beautiful. -You like it? I'll to get you one tomorrow.

The storekeeper is a friend of mine. I'll try to get you one.

Don't forget I'm a 46er, ¿eh?

The Committee has sent me. The bosses are breaking up.

-They want to talk. -They wanna talk?

The bosses! They've summoned the Committee.

They are giving in! We've won! Have a kiss!

1- 13 hours of work and 1 hour of break.

2- Pautasso's punishment will be revoked.

3- All fines will be revoked... etc.

4, 5, & 6- 5 minutes tolerance time on entry...

paid striking, and accident insurance.

7- ...

-What's up? -Why don't we ask for coffee with cognac?

Don't exaggerate.

Why not?

-Is is too much? -It's not little.

By hell! Are they giving in or not?

This is an unprecedented event in this conservative city.

To which I say, 'Beware of the defeated'...

Like Brenno considered by historians...

as an oppressor, when...

Never mind, go on.

We talked of the accidents and they said...

What, you won't let me come in and hassle...

this fool I have for a father?

You don't have to come here! It is the last time I tell you!

What are you thinking?

You can blow yourself up. I don't care What are you thinking?

You can blow yourself up. I don't care

I come for my mother. Not for you, shamed...

before these idiots. Yes, I go with those who pay me.

Those who need me can find me at the Café Corsini...

of Portici Statuto.

Get outta here! Off with you!

The bosses are waiting.

-I beg your pardon, but... -No, Cesarina, each...

looks after his own. That's good manners.

Women first, then.

Calm down. Calm down, friends, the bosses are waiting.

Come in, now.

Finally! We've been waiting for an hour.

Who's first?

Excuse me.

Go on. Come in, go on.

I'm sorry, I was busy.

So?

So you are the subversives, ¿eh?

You won't happen to have any bombs hidden, will you?

Let's see the General Staff. You are Martinetti and...

there's also Porro Camerone, right? And...

No, no, no. I know you. You are the beautiful Cesarina.

Do you remember when you started working, back in '71?

I'd given you a good pinch back then.

We did it ourselves, Mr. Engineer.

And you? Aren't you the one a bit too keen...

on the bottle?

That's why they call you reds, eh?

I like that kind of red, you know?

-Bravo! -What do you think, accountant?

Do we revoke their fines?

Yes, let us.

As for the alarm ringer...

we'll drop his suspension...

and forget the whole business.

Is that good? Are you happy?

Mr. Engineer, let's talk man to man.

We aren't happy with alms.

You call it an alm. If you think it is an alm...

then things are different.

I see. You get your head done by this plotter...

an outlaw, to top it.

You are wrong, Mr. Engineer.

You complain. But do you know how many unemployed are there?

Specialised people, willing to work...

under worse conditions.

In Saluzzo there are 200 textile workers without a job.

I'm willing to forget all this...

but you have to give me your answer by tommorrow, otherwise...

I'll just have to defend my own interests.

If I call the Saluzzo men...

they will run to catch the first train here.

Pautasso! Pautasso!

Look! The bosses have called in scabs!

-Where are they coming from? -Saluzzo!

Where are you going in your socks? You're ridiculous!

Look what you and these geese got!

The bosses' pretences! Do you see what happened?

You should be ashamed!

Stop! Where are you going?

Drop that!

We have to stop them at the Moncalieri pass!

Call the professor, I'm going with the others! Adela...

my jacket, my clothes. Quick!

Cesarina, you go up, this will be dangerous.

Why dangerous?

We have to talk to them, convince them.

They are people like us. What have you got there?

-What's it for? -Self-defence.

Talk, talk! Idle chatter will take us nowhere.

Nobody told you to come.

Pretend I'm not here.

Run! Clear the way! Damn you!

Are you mad?

Get out of there!

Friends, friends. Comrades from Saluzzo.

We aren't against you. Listen! Listen to us!

We are striking workers. A moment. Please.

Listen to me. Just a moment. A moment.

We had to strike to defend ourselves.

These people are sacrificing themselves. They are hungry

We are hungrier. We haven't worked for a month.

I know, and the bosses take advantage of it.

Don't help them against us.

You don't work, neither do we.

Are we all to starve to death, then?

It won't last long.

Wait, wait!

What are you doing?

It's not fair to be one against many. I'll help.

Get him off, quick.

I'll do you, you bastard.

Let's discuss! Let's reason! Let's talk!

No, stop!

The lever! Where's the lever?

Stop! You'll drive them to the tracks.

Are you mad? The express is coming!

Come here! Be careful!

Careful!

-When the express was coming... -We are from the gas factory.

-Who do I give it too? -Cesarina.

It's all we could gather. Too little money.

Thank you.

A drop in the sea.

Now us, the ones from the Arsenal, must be careful.

Indeed. Maybe you too should...

-He is right. -Who? -Martinetti.

Since the Professor came, everything's been trouble.

And the ones from Saluzzo took their jobs.

You don't understand anything.

We can't live off the barracks' soup.

I was thinking about selling my hair.

-Hair? -Yes, they pay well. They use it for these things...

the madames wear. How're they called? I can't remember.

-And then? -Then what?

How pretty would you be all bald!

What do you care? Antonio cares.

What's he got to do with it?

We are engaged.

-Not very handsome. -You are not the one that has to like him.

I've always wanted to tell you something...

but never knew how.

Now it is not the right moment.

Tell me anyway.

Lads!

Why are you sad? Haven't you read the news?

The incident broke the silence.

The Engineer was called to the Town Hall.

The Mayor has expelled the scabs.

The bosses are done for! Didn't I say...

something would happen? -A man died is what happened.

Happy? For you there should be one every week.

Just like Sunday.

Don't you throw them newspapers at me or I'll smash your face!

I don't doubt it. You are stronger than me.

But why don't you use your brain, if you got one?

You mess with us to prove your crazy ideas...

and not to help us. Yes! So we are idealess beasts

Why do you care?

You are a fool and an unfair one, at that.

Then tell me the truth. The whole truth.

Do you think we will get what we want?

Answer me!

Now we feel divided and downhearted, we all know it.

They are self-assured, they feel safe.

It's hard to win like this.

Nearly impossible. Is that clear?

You are mad, then, shameless! You'll destroy us!

What do you want? Win at the first bout?

It'd be easy. You haven't started this struggle.

-It's been on since Spartacus. -Who's that?

I'll tell you later. The important thing is to resist.

You must understand that the struggle will become harder and harder.

That'd already be a victory! The blanket!

And we are the ones to pay for it. You aren't one of us.

You aren't one of us.

Just like you came...

you will leave.

Yes, you are right. I'm not one of you.

I haven't a house or a family or friends.

No one who cares where I am, apart from the police.

-Then why do you do it? -'Why do you do it'?

Because I have crazy ideas.

Fine, fine. My salutes to your father. You?

No, not you, thanks.

1st, 2nd and 3rd. grade. Naturally...

Miss. Spilimbergo said no.

Thanks to you and your colleagues.

-Good day, Mr. Director. -Yesterday...

due to the warnings from our superiors...

They were very kind, you'll agree.

One can be human without being a socialist.

But I learned that, despite my ban,...

You organised another recollection.

-I'm the vice-director! -You are a spy!

I'll keep the money. I'll give it back to the boys

-Hands off! -This is an abuse. -Hands off, I said!

You must teach the boys to be good citizens...

not to be social subversives!

Subversion? It is an act of solidarity for a dead man.

A civil and educative gesture, specially for children...

-Don't shout! -...to whom, instead, we still teach that...

it is fair that tyrants and servants exist! -Enough!

-I shall make a report! -I'll write it myself, if you want!

Without your spelling mistakes! Stupid donkey!

Good day, sir.

Tell your friends that there won't be any more recollections.

-Yes, sir. -I'm sorry.

I'd like to know how is my brother Pierino doing.

He's not stupid, but he studies very little.

Tell your mother to make him study more.

-You must study! Study! -I don't like it!

I want to go the the factory like you!

You have to get a diploma!

If you end up like me, I'll kill yout!

Blow.

Tramps! Lazy bastards!

And you?

Do I have to send you a letter so you'll follow the timetable?

-I'm sorry, but the strike... -Are you being paid?

-Yes, but... -Then respect the timetable, with or without strike.

-You too! -It's that...

Revise these accounts. In an hour I work more...

than you do all month. Four weeks of strike and not...

a single penny was factured. The clients will move on...

to the competence. It's time to make a move, understood?

We've already done quite a bit.

The Textiles Union voted for a meeting...

I don't care! These people won't give up...

while this agitator is behind them. I know it.

You go to the Town Hall and demand that the...

police carries out its duties. This professor has a record.

-Why don't they arrest him? -Yes, maybe...

No 'maybes' !

We must give in to all of their demands.

We either eliminate this professor or this will be our ruin!

-Who is he? -I know him.

You can't play here, it's forbidden.

-Give me something. -Something? -For this guy.

Two lire. But who is he?

Leave, please.

Sir.

Sir.

Wait.

-Here. -Thanks.

-Are you from the factory? -No, I'm a teacher.

-And you teach...? -No, no.

Then I'm sorry that I...

I earn a living playing.

You take my money. You aren't like that miserable fool.

-Who? I know so many. -He refuses the money I give him...

because he says he earns his honestly.

-But who? -My father.

He wanted me to stay in the textile factory. 16 hours a day...

with my hands in water and end in a hospital...

like so many fools I know. I changed trades. Did I do wrong?

-Do I hurt anyone? -You did very well.

-You think so? -Sure.

I changed trades too.

-Because you got in trouble? -Because I'm selfish.

-I don't understand. -Because I like it.

And when you like something, it's no sacrifice to do it.

And because I wish that some day, girls like you...

don't have to do what you do.

Transferred to Cassino!

I've given the director too much trouble.

Like six months ago, on the anniversary...

of Garibaldi's death...

-Are there any of us in Cassino? -Yes.

-I'll give you the adress. -Write it there.

-What are you doing? -Nothing, nothing.

Here you have food for the trip.

-I don't want to take your food. -I don't mind.

What makes us do this?

Maybe we really are crazy.

-Professor Senigallia? -He's not in. Who are you?

-Who is it? -Raoul Bertone. It's my house. The Professor is my guest.

-What time does he come back? -He hasn't a set time. -We'll wait.

Are you policemen?

Inquirers? Why? What did he do?

It's a sewing egg.

Cold, eh?

-Nothing written. -Why did you throw it away?

-Because I wanted to. -Silence!

-Are you professor Senigallia? -What?

I don't understand.

-Who are you? -Police. Your documents?

Stop! Stop!

-Good evening. -Good evening.

What are you doing with no coat in this cold?

-I had to get out in a hurry. -Careful with these emergencies.

-You'll catch a cold. Take a seat? -Thanks.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

-Another tea for the lady. -No, thanks.

I'll have this one.

Either way, better a cold than jail.

Don't misjudge me.

We are a bit of a bother so they come after us.

-Where do you plan to go? -I don't know.

A friend's house would be dangerous.

Haven't you a family?

I have a wife and two children.

My fault, at any rate.

I lead a very messy life.

They moved in with my in-laws.

The old man is rich, but a good person nonetheless.

I was bored of teaching. One moment.

I have a picture of my children.

I'll show you. Two strong lads, now.

-And what's this? -Do you like? It's yours.

I'm sorry. They aren't in good condition.

-They are handsome boys. -Yes they are.

Thanks.

Excuse me.

Professor, come sleep in my house tonight.

Cavour, 4 - first floor.

No, thanks. I wouldn't want to abuse of your kindness.

Don't worry, please. Goodbye.

Since you are so kind, could you give a friend a message?

-Sure. Who?

Raoul Bertone. Carval de Ferro 18 or 28.

Tell him if they resist they will win.

Thanks. Very kind of you. Thank you.

-Bruna, put it all on my tab. -Alright.

-Who is he? -An extraordinary man.

With an extraordinary appetite.

Sorry. You brought my clothes. Thanks.

I hope nothing is missing.

-A very pretty girl gave it to me. Adela. -Adela?

-It's Raoul's girlfriend. What about him? -He's at her place.

-At hers? Why? -They interrogated him for hours.

They interrogated him. What then?

Then he decided to move, too.

Poor lad, I'm so sorry.

-Could be worse. Did they hit him? -No!

They didn't go for him for no reason. You are guilty of resisting arrest...

and assalting a public officer in Genoa. -I know.

But they can't condemn me. Self-defense.

Tell me how it happened.

What, are you asleep?

I'm asking what the hell happened in Genoa.

Sorry.

In Genoa?

Nothing. I was walking down the piazza and a policeman arrested us.

Arrested us. So you weren't alone.

No, we were about three hundred.

Three hundred? You could start by saying it was a march...

-Why? Are they forbidden?

Right, I see.

Professor, you will have to hide here for a while.

By no means. If I show any fear...

the strike will crumble.

-The bosses are coming down. -Really?

They are about to give in.

-How do you know? -Accountant Baudet is a client of a friend.

Thank her for this most valuable piece of news...

that reaffirms my theories. As I said...

Very well. We'll speak tomorrow. It's late. Good night.

Good night.

Please, can you close the window?

Good night.

-Professor. -Yes?

If you go and wash yourself, I can make you some room here.

-Leave it, I'll open it. -Alright.

Hello. How are you?

Look, I've been thinking about calling a chimney-cleaner.

But I remembered you once cleaned my cooker...

and that you work properly. Come.

Look, this is the junk.

Yes, fine, but what if my friends hear about it?

What does it matter? The strike is against the bosses.

I'm a worker like yourself.

Rosa, two strong coffees.

Now then. How are you, Martinetti?

After so many days of striking, it's time...

to check the balance.

By God, don't.

I came because I need some money for my wife.

-What has she got? -She's pregnant.

She's got ulcers, fever and other things I don't know.

-We must take her to a hospital. -Seriously?

Soon we all will have to.

This hasn't anything in it.

I know Professor Spaziani from the clinic. I can talk to him.

-Thanks. -I'm your friend, you know.

Can't you help us...

convince the boss to settle?

Maybe I shouldn't say this, but we can't go on for much longer.

Leave it here.

No need. Go

Sit down.

Unfortunately for you...

the bosses can resist for years.

The very Mr. Luigi said to me yesterday.

He'll never give in. It's a matter of principles.

You've given a show of strength.

Now you must be smart and...

show you can go back...

because you are stronger. The bosses will see it.

31 days striking are enough.

We've shown the bosses we are stronger...

and now they know it.

But now it is in our hands to take the first step. Let us be smart.

They now consider this to be a matter of principles...

they can go on for years.

-Are you saying we give in? -Not give in, but I believe...

that if we stay together...

we can go back in and demand...

-There's a meeting at the market? -Yes, it's settled.

We have to decide wheter or not to go back in.

-Has anyone talkted to the Professor? -We've heard too much, already.

-Yes, it's settled.

Friends, you know me. I was the first in taking action...

and I am the first in saying we go back.

The bosses aren't beasts. They too have...

a family, wife and kids.

Did they pay you to say this?

Raoul, you shouldn't come here to insult.

If you have something to say do it at the market.

Omero!

Omero!

Professor!

Professor!

Professor!

It's Omero!

-What is it? -Raoul sent me. He needs you...

urgently. They are going back in! -Back in!

What's going on?

-What are you doing? -I must leave.

They will arrest you. They will arrest you!

Yes, it's possible. Certain, even. But I have to go.

-I'll go with you. -I have no time.

-Good bye. -Don't come back!

What cheek! I don't ever want to see you again!

How dishonest!

You'll end up in hospital, not jail!

At least cover yourself, you stubborn fool!

It seems the majority wants to go back in.

We don't know. Let's count.

Count? What for? It's quite clear.

It's an important decision. I demand the votes be counted.

Fine. Let's try the other way. Put down your hands.

Those who do not want to go back in...

and carry on striking, put your hands up.

-Are you convinced? -Let's count.

Sorry.

I forgot my glasses in the hurry.

Yet, without seeing clearly...

I know perfectly well who voted to carry on with the fight.

-Barbero. -Yes, Professor, today and ever!

Very good, I knew it.

-Gallesio! -I'm not leaving.

Very good, very good.

Bardella!

Hasn't he come?

Here I am.

You changed sides.

You are a bunch of asses!

Calm. Calm down, friends. Calm down.

Calm down.

It's not true, they aren't asses.

They are the majority.

And the majority is the voice of caution

You are all mad. You, Barbero, you.

And all of you who want to work just 13 hours a day...

and earn more, and not wish to end up in a mental hospital.

The majority, on the other hand, are sensible.

They know this salary is enough.

The fact that nobody starved shows this.

They know, according to the statistics, these hours cause...

only about 20% of the accidents. How many of you are there? 500?

That means that only a hundred of you...

will be criplled. Bajetto, for example. Or you, Occhipinti.

Or your daughter Gasperina. Mondino, where are you?

-Here. -Show yourself! This is what the majority wants!

It isn't true. We have suffered for a month.

-We've lost everything, don't you see?. -Says who?

-Everyone. -Not true. We haven't lost.

It's just a delicate moment.

The battle is won by him who resists an hour longer!

The bosses are worse than us.

-Says who? -I've studied these things. You have to trust me!

-We can't anymore! -We can't stand it anymore!

You will have more hunger!

You and your children, if you abandon the struggle!

The bosses will always win! For you...

misery and pain! For them wealth and power!

-But the factory isn't ours! -It isn't?!

Who works 14 hours a day, every day?!

-With blood and sweat! -We do!

Take it! The factory is yours! Go back, but to take it!

Let everyone know you love it more than your own houses!

The bosses, the city, the government!

It's your life and death! Forward!

-Are you going to see her? -She's a good person.

Attention! Present arms!

Summon all the officers! Assembly call!

Assembly call!

All leaves are suspended! Assembly call! Quick!

Dress up! It's assembly call! Let's go!

Squad, halt!

-Good day, captain. What are we to do? -Clear the square.

The squadron must march to the factory!

Squad, forward!

Unmount!

Squadron, form a line! March!

Halt!

And me?

-What are we doing here? -I don't know, but...

it doesn't smell good.

Here they come!

Straps on shoulders.

Squadron, straps on shoulders!

Criminals!

Bastards!

Keep calm.

They have seen you. Flee.

Don't go any further. Enough!

What do we do, captain?

Move back or we'll open fire!

Squad, aim! Prepare to open fire!

Fire!

Omero. Omero.

-Where are you going? Are you mad? Come here. -Where is he going?

Let me go! Let me go!

It's your fault! Damn you! Infamous!

You've killed him! But I'll kill you! I'll kill you!

Bastard! Bastard!

-Hello, Adela. -Hello.

-Thanks. -I haven't been to your house. There's a cop there.

The friends gave me some.

-And the professor? -In jail.

But we'll present him as our candidate in the elections...

and if we elect him, they'll let him out. Cenerone and Cesarina...

are trying to get votes. -Good idea.

He sends you this.

-It's the adress of a friend in Lugano. -Damn!

Always the man. Even in jail he thinks about us.

The train.

Write me!

What?

Write me!

But you can't read!

Write me anyway!

The End