Original subtitles

A CHRISTMAS TALE

Once upon a time, long ago, in a world that looked very different from ours...

No, not that different.

But back when you could watch matinées at movie theaters.

Sitting in one of the city's theaters was Karl-Bertil Jonsson.

Robin Hood!

This was back when a 14-year-old's idol worship

wasn't necessarily of a sexual nature.

Get them, Robin! You can do it!

Quiet, boy!

Heroism.

Fair maidens.

Comradeship and healthy outdoor activities.

Those were some attributes that for Karl-Bertil Jonsson

seemed like the greatest things life had to offer.

And of course, the main principle among outlaws:

To steal from the rich and give to the poor.

Anyone seen Marion?

DON'T MISS HESEKIEL RAFT AS ROBIN HOOD

There were as many horses as cars in the cities,

and people still looked each other in the eyes,

since they didn't have cell phones.

Use your eyes, sonny!

You could also see poor people.

There was no shame in being poor.

Christmas was approaching, causing a hectic surge in business activity.

This made the rich business tycoons even richer,

and the poor sods even poorer.

And the inventive became even more inventive.

- It's for you, Esther. - An apple!

In the days leading up to Christmas,

the Royal Postal Service employed students,

to work all night, since the regular employees stopped working at 5 p.m.

Hurry up!

It was important for everyone to get their packages by Christmas Eve.

What do you know, a new mailman.

Karl-Bertil Jonsson didn't mind sorting through incoming packages.

Move. This is my spot now. You'll have to stand over there.

Shoo!

On the contrary, he rather enjoyed earning some money of his own.

At 4 in the morning, Karl-Bertil Jonsson broke his final wrapped crystal vase

against the Royal Postal Service's concrete floor, and headed home.

Karl-Bertil!

See you tomorrow!

Four-eyes!

You need to learn to fight back.

But it doesn't do any good.

Yes. Just tense up your hand and swing it... I'm sorry.

Oh my, you're okay, right?

You're fine. You're fine.

Firewood! Get your birch firewood here!

I'll get some firewood. I want you to lock the car doors and sit still.

- Sure. - Good.

Good evening. Here we go again.

I see some half bags, you don't have anything bigger?

"Little John, listen. Let's attack the Sheriff's men from the oak tree."

"Ha-ha, it'll be my breakfast."

"Oh Lord in heaven! I can never climb that!"

"Meanwhile, Marion couldn't stop thinking about the secretive stranger."

"The good Robin Hood saved my life. Will I ever get to see him again?"

"The good Robin Hood saved my life."

"Will I ever get to see him again?"

First-rate birch firewood!

Pretend like I'm not here.

Have you seen a young girl with a brown beret?

How young?

What do you have there?

Well, Robin Hood.

Robin Hood? That's a great role model for upstanding boys.

Sorry to bother you. Happy holidays.

I can't figure out where that thieving little rascal went.

Andersson, to the docks.

Thank you. My hero.

- Hey! My comic! - Didn't I tell you to stay in the car?

- But she took... - They'll snatch your watch from you.

- But hey... - There.

Maybe you feel pity for Karl-Bertil now.

But there's no reason to pity him.

He came from a wealthy family,

and his father Tyko Jonsson owned the city's department store.

- You're really strong. - I can carry more.

He got wealthier every day, from table runners and sparklers.

Beata? J'espère que vous avez réussi à réveiller Karl-Bertil, hein,

et qu'il s'est enfui.

- A-t-il eu un bon petit déjeuner? - Jawohl.

Dear employees, this year's final accounts surprise... exceed...

According to the annual report... So many words!

Dear employees, this year's final accounts exceed all...

According to the annual report...

Thank you, Beata.

Ronds de serviette en bois de poirier pour tante Märta.

What I said was, is Karl-Bertil ready to depart?

I don't know. It's hard to understand when Madam speaks French.

It's just to help Beata learn the language before we go to Antibes this summer.

Make a sandwich and I'll go get Karl-Bertil.

Who knows? Maybe you'll meet yourself a fiancé down there.

- I don't need a fiancé. - Karl-Bertil?!

- How's it going with your speech? - I have a cheat sheet.

So it should be fine. How's it going with the glögg party invitations?

Almost no one has RSVP'd this year either, Tyko.

I guess you and I aren't fancy enough.

Just wait until they hear about the quarterly report.

- Then they'll come running. - You think so?

You can bet your last dime on it, my little pearl pickle.

But the glögg party is only a few days from now.

Hang on a second, I'll just go get Karl-Bertil.

Karl-Bertil?

Rosenqvist...

Karl-Bertil, please, your father's waiting!

What was that?

Just a car.

This is a very pretty car. Nice paint job, too.

What make is it?

A rare make. I don't know the name.

Hurry up!

...pantalons sont rouges.

To offer an ice cream.

Pour offrir une glace.

Poucher offrir une glace?

Poucher offrir une glace?

Merci beaucoup!

You forgot this. And now don't forget what a real Jonsson always does.

Make money?

No! Your best.

Mr. and Mrs. Rosenqvist! Good morning!

What a lovely winter day we got today.

Everyone's here, as you requested, Director.

One day you'll be standing here yourself.

Well, then...

"Eight kilos ground beef..."

What the heck...

Dear...store employees.

We're approaching the days

that cause our eyes to sparkle more than usual.

Simply put, the time of year

when Jesus Christ in the manger

sells more than ever.

I want to see polishing and cleaning,

puttering, packaging and rummaging of epic proportions!

This way...

we can all help... to...

...to make sure that every fellow person,

like the Three Wise Men,

can purchase the very finest Christmas present for their fellow man.

Merry Christmas, everybody!

They applaud whatever I say.

- Well, what did you think, Berntsson? - Incredibly inspiring, Director.

I should say so.

I brought Karl-Bertil to assist with picking out this year's toy.

- Then we'll hold off on today's mail. - No, darn it!

We have no time to waste. Read aloud.

"Dear Director Jonsson, we are very pleased to inform you..."

Come have a look, Karl-Bertil.

See if you can find some amusing contraption here.

Last year, the steam engine was a formidable success,

but what will it be this year?

A car that you can wind up?

Or a circus monkey that drives around somehow... What do you say?

- It's not easy. - But you're a child. You're an expert.

"We can inform you that we've selected you, Tyko Jonsson..."

This, for example. It's fun.

How do you...

Manufacturing error. Remedy that immediately.

That's enough! Keep reading.

"...inform you that we've selected you, Tyko Jonsson,

as the city's benefactor, because of your commitment..."

What the heck? Benefactor?

I'm not some benefactor!

- Find out what that nonsense is about. - Certainly, Director.

I can't find anything.

No, it was a mistake to bring you here.

I'll ask Ruben to drive you to the post office.

- What's that? - That's an outrage.

2,500 faulty bed springs from Germany.

They'll be returned.

But this is fun.

I need a smoke.

Director...

Director? Director!

It's about the accounting!

- I've discovered the error. - Well?

We've paid out a barely noticeable amount

to Mrs. Hedqvist's orphanage every month.

It must have gotten mixed up with your gentlemen's club... Hedqvist's Bar.

Some small clerical error must have snuck in there...

- Halt the payments immediately. - Certainly, Director!

Do I look like this year's Santa Claus?

Well, bowl me over with a pine cone.

It's none other than HK Bergdahl.

You know, that character who's too fancy to even say good day.

Good day!

May I wish a fellow brother Merry Christmas?

I wish you the same.

Perhaps I could hope to see you

at our garden party in Menton next summer?

S'il vous plaît.

Au revoir.

You see, Menton...

Well now, HK Bergdahl.

Now remember what a real Jonsson always does.

- His best. - No! Make money, of course.

Karl-Bertil!

Let's switch back. I can't keep track of all the names on the map anymore.

- No, I like it here. - Shoo. Shoo!

If we give every area a number, sorting would be easier.

What?

Let's divide the entire country into numbers, instead of place names.

- Like codes? - That's a good name, post codes!

- 14! -18, Luleå!

Visby, 20!

21, foreign!

Tyko and Marianne, we would love to attend your event. Kindly, Bergdahl

This is Mrs. Jonsson. I'm calling for Mr. Jonsson.

Phone call for you, from Mrs. Jonsson.

Marianne, sweetheart! You know that I don't like being disturbed at work.

I know. But Tyko, I just got a reply

from Mr. and Mrs. HK Bergdahl regarding the glögg party.

I'll be damned.

And I just got a call from Mrs. Rosenqvist. They're coming as well.

I don't understand, they didn't even greet me this morning.

The phone is ringing off the hook here.

What's going on? Is there anything I should know, Tyko?

- Charity... - I'm sorry, what did you say?

Hello?

I'm hanging up now, pumpkin. I'll explain later.

There, I've halted the payments,

and I'll also demand that they refund the money.

Are you out of your mind?! Of course we should support the orphanage.

It's tremendously important

that we support society's most vulnerable institutions in harsh times like these.

When is this gala?

Well, on Christmas Day at Grand Hôtel.

Marianne will need a new dress.

I'll need to visit the barber and the car needs to be washed.

Yes, and maybe visit Mrs. Hedqvist?

- Who? - The director of the orphanage.

Whom you'll have to bring to the gala, according to etiquette.

Kalmar!

- 20! - Visby!

21, foreign!

Stop!

Have you changed Postmaster Kronlund's sorting system?

Which was introduced in accordance with the Royal Postal Ordinance of 1843?

Who's behind this?

It was Karl-Bertil. It was all his idea.

- But post codes are faster. - Quiet.

I want you to look at this.

An innocent little envelope was lying on the floor here.

If I hadn't discovered this, it would never have been delivered.

What if Columbus' letter to the King and Queen of Spain hadn't been delivered?

Then America wouldn't have been discovered.

Or if Gustav Vasa's letter to the men of Dalarna had gone missing?

Then Vasaloppet had been canceled.

Julius Caesar wouldn't have gotten Cleopatra.

Napoleon would have been victorious at Waterloo.

What would the world look like then?

Like in France.

Quiet.

A lost letter can also mean a lost life.

- And... - Never open anyone's mail!

- Come again? - Never open anyone's mail!

Oskar? I'm entrusting you to make sure this letter gets delivered.

And Karl-Bertil... Take the rest of the day off.

- But I didn't mean to... - Your father called.

He's waiting outside.

Good! Back to work.

If you come up with any more ideas, I'll kick your ass.

Post codes... It's the dumbest thing I've ever heard.

We're going to Mrs. Hedqvist's orphanage.

Why do I have to come along?

Because it's good if I look like I like children.

Good evening, Director Jonsson. We're from The Daily Post.

- Congratulations on your medal. - Oh, thank you.

Don't touch the car, kids. Run along.

- Amazing! - Esther!

Don't forget that it's a fun song. So we smile.

- Marvelous! - Run along now. Music sheets!

Adorable!

I especially appreciated... the legato piece...

- I'm sorry, I didn't catch your name. - Jonsson. Tyko Jonsson.

I am one of the contributors,

through my department store, Jonsson & Son.

Well, you'll have to excuse me. I have things to do.

It's almost time for supper and I'm on my own here.

-So you'll have to excuse me. - Yes...

I know most of our contributors,

but I've never set eyes on you before, Mr. Jonsson.

No, I've made sure to be extremely discrete.

Not to say totally silent.

People usually like to boost about their generosity.

Yes, very distasteful. Very distasteful.

Unless the sum is too small, that is.

Kylliki and Lisa, can you fetch water?

However, circumstances now force me to step into the limelight.

It's about an honorary medal,

which each year is awarded to the person

who has done the most for society's neediest.

Why didn't you say so right away, Mr. Jonsson?

My natural humility, I assume.

I... I'm lost for words...

My dear, you don't need to say anything. I was actually surprised that I got it.

My simple question to you is if you would like to join me

at the charity ball on Christmas Day?

I'm sorry. I have to take care of the children, so I'm afraid I can't.

Could I possibly provide some small contribution

to entice Madam to attend said event?

Since you're a contributor,

you probably know that we get to rent this place from Countess Siverschiöld.

- Until the end of the year. - I see.

The children here are war children,

whose parents are still in their home countries.

We need a new building where the rent is free.

We need new clothes, a cook, a teacher, a new water heater that doesn't break...

I'll take care of the water heater!

- Amazing! - Yes.

- And firewood as well? - Deal.

Can I get a smile?

Oh my!

- It's perfectly fine. - Esther is ill.

If you'll come to my office, I can remove...

It's perfectly fine.

Wait! Give me back my comic book! Stop! Hey!

Stop!

Marion...

I've told you that a straight right punch always helps.

How hard can it be to find something that children think is fun?

- Come here, Lisa! Look at it! - Again, Karl-Bertil!

- Look! - Stay on the line.

- What's that? - It's the spring I got from you.

I've found it! It's the German spring!

It can walk down stairs!

Damned if I know what we should call it!

Stairy!

We'll call it "Stairy"! That's funny.

- What's this? - Goodbye.

No idea.

Well, Il y a un navet dans le placard.

What is she saying?

She says there's a rutabaga in the closet.

But I think she means that dinner is served.

I have to say that you get an amazing return from this charity business.

I've been by the phone all day today. The Broddmans also accepted the invitation.

It's true what they say, it feels good in here.

You need to learn proper etiquette, Tyko.

Etiquette... As if I don't know proper etiquette....

- What on earth is this? - L'escargot.

- Snails. - Who eats that?

If we're actually invited to Bergdahls' garden party next summer,

we have to acquaint ourselves with French cuisine.

I'll happily acquaint myself with French cuisine, but not with its creepy crawlies.

- What do you do? - Grab the tongs...

And grab a firm hold around the shell.

I've been thinking about the glögg party,

and I think it would be really lovely if we could bring the children's choir here.

Out of the question!

But it would look so lovely in the parlor.

Then you'll be responsible for the Chinese porcelain.

Oh yes, you know it.

- I... I... Il y a un... - Il y a...

Il y a un policier sur le bouton de manchette.

What is she saying?

She says there's a police officer on the cufflink,

but I think she means that the police are here.

Qui veut pa-parler à vos Karl-Bertil.

No...

Good evening. We conducted an ordinary routine control of this orphanage girl,

and then we discovered this.

"Property of Karl-Bertil Jonsson, Stjärnvägen 18."

What do you know about this, Karl-Bertil?

Nothing, Father.

We just wanted to return the stolen property.

And this little thief goes to juvenile prison.

I'm proud to be able to contribute to such an alert police force.

Can I offer you a hot toddy?

Not while on duty. Christmas peace and Christmas cheer.

I gave her the wallet.

What did you just say?

She didn't steal it, I gave her the wallet.

Yes. That's what I said all along.

Did you give away the alligator skin wallet,

which you got on your 10th birthday?

I didn't think of it like that.

I mean, it was my own money that I earned myself at the post office.

And I could do whatever I want with it. Father said so.

So you're saying that the girl is innocent?

Yes, she's innocent.

Well, then we won't intrude further.

We wish the Jonsson family a very merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

- Have you... - Tyko, before you say anything else,

Karl-Bertil is right.

He can do whatever he wants with his own money. You said so.

Wants?!

Go sit in front of the fire in the parlor. I'll bring you your slippers.

- And... - And some hot toddy.

- Young sir, go to your room right away. - Some hot toddy...

Karl-Bertil...

- This girl... - I don't know her.

I'm not stupid, Karl-Bertil.

Listen to me.

You have a good heart, Karl-Bertil, but your father is right.

There are people who take advantage of kind people.

This was your father's first wallet, and it has what you call sentimental value.

It's an emotional value that can't be measured in money.

- But I can get it back. - From the poor neighborhoods?

Out of the question.

She's very pretty. For a car, I mean.

Thank you.

- Good day. - Good day.

I want to buy this medicine.

3.50. Oh my, that's a nice wallet.

It's my grandma's.

Grandma really loves Robin Hood.

So do I.

I've counted all the soap bars. So no one takes any, right?

Stop nagging.

And be thorough. Fold properly...

- She's here now! - Yes!

The mail carrier!

Hey! Be quiet now! If you don't calm down, there will be no mail!

- Good afternoon. - Good afternoon.

- Merry Christmas, girls. - Merry Christmas!

Let's see...

We'll start with Tuija.

- Susanna. - Yes!

Inga.

- Kylliki. - Yes!

- And then Ritva. - It's from Mom!

Lisa.

Hanna.

"A nice lady came to visit..."

What?! My cat has had kittens!

Stop staring.

You know what happens if you don't get any letters, right?

What does "put up for adoption" mean?

That you get a new mom.

- But I want my old mom! - Surely a brand new one is better.

Yes, instead of your old used and dented one.

- I actually got two letters last week. - What? You did?

I've been waiting a long time. Let me see what you have. Put it here.

That's not much.

Oh well. Let me see what's in your pockets as well.

Show me what's in your pockets, Vera. Right away.

Pull out what you have.

Medicine? Well, that's good.

- Yes, it's for Esther. - Yes, I know that.

- But I want to give it to her. - No! No!

By the way, where did you get money to buy that?

Vera, answer me!

Esther...

There was no letter today, either.

Come on.

- Do you want to read a letter from Mom? - But...there wasn't one.

Who says you need a new one? An old one will do just as well.

Hang on... Here.

"Hi, my darling girls.

"I'm sorry that it's been a long time since I've written,

"but I've had so many problems to try to solve.

"I've applied for a passport, so I can travel to you.

"The trains are still running

"and last month, quite a few people made it on board.

"From Mom."

- Stop here. - Here?

Yes, I need to buy a Christmas present.

No, you know what your mother has said. We're supposed to go straight home.

I didn't want to say anything, but it's actually a Christmas present for you.

Well, a small exception can't hurt.

- Hang on, if anything should happen... - I'll give them a straight right punch.

Good.

Hi!

Hi.

Hi, Esther! That's my little sister.

I was just out walking.

- So you're not here for the wallet? - No, not at all.

- My name is Karl-Bertil. - Vera.

Vera, there is something that I need to ask to get back.

- I knew it. You are here for the wallet. - No, my comic book.

You're weird, having Robin Hood as your hero.

He steals from the rich and gives to the poor.

How so?

Because you do the opposite.

To steal from the rich and give to the poor.

A lonely young mother evicted from her home.

Let me in!

A drunken father's lonely lamentations.

What the hell are you staring at?!

Let me in!

A homeless poor fellow's ice-cold abode.

And a sad prostitute's quick assertion that he was too young.

Christmas was near.

That's Lagerståhl, the one with the jam factory.

I should probably head over and converse with him.

- Wait! Stand still. - What is it?

You're about to make a laughing stock out of us, Tyko.

What is it now?

Do I have lint on my jacket?

Is my hair partition out of place? Do I smell of sweat?

Worse! Look down!

Oh my god. Yes, I'll go and remedy this right away.

It's too late! Here are Mr. and Mrs. Bergdahl.

So, the parquet, is it smoked oak?

The ceiling is walnuts.

I'm talking about the floor...

It is non-smoked.

Well, here's Karl-Bertil.

I have to "discuse" myself.

It's really nice when new people take an interest in charity.

Have you heard about the Polio Gala?

Polio? Oh, how nice.

I told you so.

I hope you have a really good excuse!

- Beata! - Oh, that?

Yes. Hello, my name is Mrs. Hedqvist.

My children are supposed to sing here. If this is the Jonsson residence, that is?

Yes! Yes, yes, certainly, certainly!

If Mrs. Hedqvist could just take the children to the other side.

We have a kitchen entrance, it's more practical that way.

Yes, of course. Come on!

- Great! - Having to use the kitchen entrance...

Totally unheard of. "It's more practical that way."

I'll be damned if this isn't the loveliest thing I've heard

since I went to Sunday school.

Oh, how lovely! Please have some more glögg.

Yes! Or a stiff drink.

Right?

Vera?

- One moment, Madam! - Yes?

- So beautiful! - Oh, thank you.

But I noticed a little girl who wasn't feeling well.

Yes, that's little Esther.

I try to ease her symptoms as best I can, but medicine isn't cheap these days.

I'm a doctor. Maybe I could help somehow.

My wife and I live on a large estate outside the city.

Some fresh air is what her lungs need.

I don't think it's as simple as having Esther visit the countryside, I'm afraid.

I was thinking more of a permanent solution.

We don't have children of our own, which deeply saddens us.

I've also heard that you'll soon be without an orphanage.

If it's about money for a new home, that's not a problem.

Even though I know many children would be better off someplace else,

you should know that there are laws and ordinances to follow.

I'm totally convinced of that.

Because children are not commodities.

Both for Esther's and the other children's sake...

Pheasant hunting... Well, I'm sure we can squeeze that into our calendar.

But it's the men who do the hunting. We women go on art tours.

Well, that could be just as exciting.

Yes, holy pheasant, that should be nice.

Karl-Bertil? It's finally here.

This year's tax calendar.

A compilation of the richest people in the country.

Have a look at page 3 and see if you find anything interesting.

Beata! Don't forget the tablecloths!

Do you see who's climbed 18 spots since last year?

- Good. - Good?! It's phenomenal!

- Tyko? - I started with two empty hands.

No, Tyko. Are you looking at how much you make again? Aren't you ashamed?

How are you, sweetie? You don't look quite well.

Oopsie doopsie, we've almost caught up with the Bergdahls.

What does it say?

Does this mean that we can stay longer in Antibes?

- Let's not get carried now. - Wow, they're rich.

He's been at that level for a number of years.

No, he was higher up last year, I remember that.

Robin Hood!

- What are you doing here? - I'm here to help you.

Are you going to steal from the rich and give to the poor?

The house is full of stuff.

You're forgetting the most important thing.

What?

Saving Marion. It's you who'll steal from the rich and give to the poor.

Me? No, I can't do that.

Karl-Bertil, you have to do your duty in life.

No, dawn is breaking. I have to get back to Sherwood.

- Do you have stairs? - But I have more questions.

If you really want to help the poor,

a progressive taxation system is more efficient.

But that wouldn't be as exciting in a movie.

Exactly. You learn quickly, my boy.

I'll be quiet.

To steal from the rich and give to the poor.

To steal from the rich and give to the poor.

La crevette a acheté un nouveau pantalon.

What?

My god, what a funny hat.

It's Aunt Märta's. She left it here. Give me that.

Mon Dieu!

Karl-Bertil,

I was wondering if you could mail our Christmas present to Aunt Märta?

That's against regulations.

But I'll pay for the postage.

We're not swindlers.

Where the heck has my tax calendar gone?

- Bye! - Have fun at the post office!

Did you take the one I found?

You can put it in the corner, that would be lovely.

During the night, a plan had taken shape in Karl-Bertil's head.

He had made a decision.

If Robin can, then Karl-Bertil can as well. He started sorting packages,

and the title on the label drew special attention from Karl-Bertil.

When the title read things like "turner," "nurse," and "construction worker,"

he allowed the package to proceed to the recipient.

"Bureau director," "forest manager" or "managing director"

got slipped into his own special bag.

Hi!

- Is it Christmas tree time again? - Yes.

What are you doing? We have our meal break now.

I'm staying.

It's important that we finish in time.

You're not just a little stupid.

Don't forget that I'm watching you!

Once he was alone, Karl-Bertil pulled out the tax calendar

and checked the addresses.

Those with a yearly income of more than 50,000 kronor got put back in the bag,

while those who earned less were allowed to proceed as usual.

One package was addressed to his own father.

When practicing one's ideals, one cannot spare one's own.

No special consideration. Same for everyone.

- Hi. - Hi.

There! Enough arts and crafts. Time for a Christmas bath!

God, how nice.

But it doesn't have a star topper, and then it's not a proper Christmas tree.

- No, that's right. - Everybody into the washroom!

When the special bag was full,

Karl-Bertil addressed it to his own home.

Unannounced inspection.

- But... - Oskar?

"Merchant Dahlén."

"Director Bergdahl."

"Forest manager..." What kind of strange sorting order is this?

I was thinking, it's Christmas, after all.

Then it's important that the backbones of society get their mail on time.

So I thought I'd take care of that myself.

That was beautifully said.

Damned beautifully said!

It's my first day at work today.

- I'm sure you'll do fine. - You do get nervous.

Should we make it two?

It's given up completely now.

But you promised we could bathe. We haven't bathed in a long time.

No, I know that, but... No, no, no! Go inside.

Go warm yourselves in your beds and I'll take care of this.

Can the Director resume his position, please?

Yes, of course. Of course.

I have the final sales report before Christmas.

I think you'll want to see this.

Well, bowl me over with a pine cone. It's a record.

It's that new toy. Stairy, it's become a smashing success.

Yes... I don't know where I get all my ideas from.

Tyko!

Phone call from Mrs. Hedqvist, she says it's urgent.

She'll have to wait. We have to celebrate. Cheers, Berntsson.

Oh well, thank you.

What did they say? Will they be able to fix it?

What? Yes, yes, yes. It'll be alright.

Run along now, I'll be right out.

Is this Dr. Wentzel?

- My grandchild would like that! - And what a bargain price!

Yes. You can go and play.

- Oh look! - Imagine that it can walk down stairs!

Yes, maybe I should buy one for little Lisa as well.

But we also have to make sure to get some ham.

- Just a minute, sir. - What's the matter?

Would you be so kind as to come back in?

- Well, what's this about? - This is what it's about.

Young Miss, my name is Director Tyko Jonsson.

I own this department store.

- Can I be of assistance? - Yes, this rascal...

We have a shoplifter here who claims that he owns the department store.

That's correct.

Which part? The first or the second?

The second.

Merry Christmas... not!

- Ruben! - Yes?

Karl-Bertil?

Merry Christmas!

My dear little boy.

It's really strange, you know.

A bag full of packages has arrived for you.

It has?

Oh, right.

No, it's stuff I need to sort. Home work.

But surely you shouldn't have to work hard on Christmas Eve?

You have to do your duty in life, Mother.

A job well done provides inner satisfaction

and is the foundation on which society rests.

I'll be damned.

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas from an unknown benefactor

Karl-Bertil!

Let's see...

I wish you an exceptionally Merry Christmas, my well-behaved son.

Do you want to smell the glögg?

Tyko?

We're just waiting for your effort.

It's so beautiful.

Isn't it?

- Look what we got. - For real? A letter from Mom!

"Hi, my darling little rays of sunshine.

"I'm sorry I haven't written. I miss you so much.

"We'll soon see each other, and become a family again."

Fall, snow

Gently fall

Fall, snow

Slowly and quietly fall

Envelop

The city

In your blanket of snow

Fall slowly right now

Fall, snow

Lightly fall

Fall, snow

And cover our world

Shelter us from evil

Fall tight

Around home and hearth

And then I asked: "Do we have any? Do we have any?"

"Just wait, Director," she said.

"Do we have any, Berntsson?" I said. "Do we have any?"

"Hold on," she said.

And once she'd sat down, I ventured another "Do we have any?"

"Any?" she said. "You can have twice that."

Oh dear Lord... Yes!

Anders Persson's cabin is on fire

All the candles are ablazing

- It's amazing... - ...to be gazing

All the candles are ablazing

It's amazing to be gazing

All the candles are ablazing

Anders Persson's cabin is on fire

All the candles are ablazing

Anders Persson's cabin is on fire

All the candles are ablazing

It's so cold.

I'm freezing all the time.

Dear children, it's still Christmas.

Yes. And even though we don't have any money,

we can't have Christmas without Christmas presents.

And even a pine cone can be a lovely gift.

Come in!

- Merry Christmas, one and all! - Merry Christmas.

We're here with Christmas gifts.

Go ahead, help yourselves.

Dig in. It's for all of you.

- So you're here so soon. - I brought some medicine.

Look, oranges!

- Good. - This is for you. Merry Christmas!

I've never seen so many Christmas presents!

I heard that Mrs. Hedqvist will be attending the charity gala.

My wife and I would like to resolve things regarding Esther as soon as possible.

Perhaps we can deal with it there.

Surely that would be easiest?

That's it from us. Merry Christmas, everyone!

- Merry Christmas. - Thank you very much!

Look how nice that is.

What's going on? Why did that man bring medicine for Esther?

He's a doctor and he's a very generous man.

But why did that lady give her a Christmas present?

You know what?

Are you putting up Esther for adoption?

Dear Vera...

Things are difficult for everyone right now.

And we all have to bite down and keep fighting.

Esther is ill. She needs someone who'll take care of her.

- But I take care of her! - You're just a child.

Vera, you know full well

that we haven't heard from your mother for several months.

And I think you understand what that might mean.

She'll go to a proper family, they'll take care of her!

She'll be miserable! I'll be miserable!

You're the one who's lying.

Look what I found. A letter from your mother, which she hardly wrote herself.

It's your handwriting and everything.

I wrote it to make Esther happy.

Forging a letter. You should be ashamed.

You have tonight to say goodbye to your sister.

Have I reached Children's Services?

Yes, my name is Mrs. Hedqvist.

I want to report a series of thefts.

Yes...

It's regarding a young girl.

Vera.

Excuse me, but I have to tend to my mailbag now.

Poor child. You know, I can take the car and drive you.

Out of the question, Tyko. You've had glögg.

Oh well... Here's ten kronor for a taxi.

- Thank you, Father. - You're welcome, my dutiful son.

Drive towards the slums.

Do you have any nice children at home?

What?

Take this package and bring it straight home to your poor family.

Merry Christmas.

Karl-Bertil proceeded to cheerfully light up the dark side of society

with his sparklers of kindness.

- Merry Christmas. - What?

He approached tattered street wanderers.

Merry Christmas from an unknown benefactor.

He spoke with the loneliest old people.

Provided comfort for the saddest mothers.

- Merry Christmas! - And sought out the poorest families.

That damned neighbor is pounding on the door again! On Christmas Eve!

I can't stand that nasty bitch!

Give the bitch a proper scolding!

Merry Christmas!

Didn't I tell you to tell her to bugger off?!

Merry Christmas from an unknown benefactor.

Santa!

Karl-Bertil handed out the last few packages

to the poor souls at a crude beer tavern.

Merry Christmas!

Some people from Children's Services are here!

They say that you go around stealing.

- You're going to juvenile prison. - Vera, can you come here?

But the door to the back courtyard is unlocked.

- But... - Vera!

Hurry, run!

- Where is she? - Let's sing!

The fox runs across the ice The fox runs across the ice

- Vera! - Here!

Stop, Vera! Do you hear me?! Stop!

She must have gone this way.

That way!

Merry Christmas!

What do you say? Isn't it about time for the final present?

Yes! What could it be...

Alright then...

Inside this case, there is lots of movie space.

Look at her stand, isn't she grand?

No! A television!

- A TV! - A television!

Are you happy?

Yes!

Jonsson residence.

Aunt Märta! Yes, merry Christmas!

No, what?

A hand-painted porcelain plate? No...

With a floral motif? No, we haven't gotten it.

Yes... Yes, do so.

Yes... Yes... That's great. Merry Christmas!

Hello?

Tyko? Aunt Märta sent us a hand painted porcelain plate.

Thank the Lord that it didn't arrive.

- Yes! - Be quiet! I'm watching TV!

She just slammed the phone down on me.

She said that she was going to call the Director General of the Postal Service.

Poor man... He's probably also watching TV.

- But it's strange that it could just... - Be quiet!

I still think it's strange that it simply disappeared like that.

Can you make sense of it, Karl-Bertil? You work at the post office.

For a fraction of a second, Karl-Bertil went through an inner crisis.

Lie to Mother on Christmas Eve? No!

Dutifully admit the truth? Yes.

I...

I put the package aside and gave it to a poor person.

What did you say you did?

I gave Aunt's porcelain plate to a poor person.

Are you out of your mind?!

I've taken lots of other packages as well, from rich people

and given them to the poor.

Oh my...

I have nurtured a communist at my bosom!

But Father, you said that you didn't want Aunt's porcelain plate.

No matter what I said, it was my plate!

Tyko Jonsson was among those who think

that all people who willingly give something away are communists.

Which other people have you stolen from?! Aside from me?!

They're marked in your tax calendar.

HK Bergdahl!

Do you realize what you've done?!

- You could end up in juvenile prison! - I'm prepared to face my punishment.

I've brought some joy to all the unfortunate people

who don't own a department store.

Tomorrow, you will come with me

to everyone you've stolen from and apologize!

Off to bed! You can't watch how the movie ends!

- What will we do, Tyko? - Be quiet!

Come on...

Karl-Bertil had already read in the newspaper how the movie ended.

Content, he closed his eyes and dreamt of Robin Hood's heroics.

To the castle!

Let us now stop for a moment and ask ourselves some questions.

Wouldn't Karl-Bertil's cruel father's heart have softened instantly

if he with his own eyes could have witnessed the joy

that his son had spread throughout the bottom rungs of society?

If he had seen the streetwalker Beda Larsson

hold her striped silk tie to her bosom on Christmas night,

wouldn't his eyes have softened?

Could he have maintained his anger

if he had glanced into the unemployed Harald Ljungström's home,

where the child played

with his six Japanese napkin rings made of pear wood?

And how could he have been deeply outraged

when the lonely widow Lisbeth Blomkvist opened her package,

and with tears in her eyes

looked at a bottle of Aqua Vera gentleman's cologne?

These questions remain unanswered.

We can only consider it probable that if the cheerful notes

from the former cooper Ernst Haraldsson's toy trumpet

had reached Tyko Jonsson's ears,

then maybe on this Christmas night he wouldn't have fallen asleep in anger

in front of his new television set.

Good evening. Sorry to disturb this late on Christmas Eve,

but I'm afraid the matter couldn't wait.

We've picked up this girl again, and she now claims that she works for the family.

Yes, that's right. Welcome, Vera.

Is there an adult here who can verify this?

Certainly. Take her to the kitchen entrance.

Now, my boy, we finally get to rescue the maiden!

We'll set a trap in the forest for the constable.

We'll take a rope and tie it around a tree. And Friar Tuck...

- Windbag. - I can... Hey!

Good evening! We have a girl here who claims to be employed here.

It is work well done.

Well, then. We'll leave it at that. We'll leave her here.

Goodbye and see you again.

Au revoir, et à la pro...

What a lovely dress you ha...

We were supposed to buy salami.

What's going on here? Come out, whoever you are!

Oh, Merry Christmas. Everything is in order. I can take care of her.

- Alright. - Goodbye.

I've also been nicked by the police on occasion.

Are you hungry?

I'll get you something.

It's... it's the party china for when the King comes to visit.

He's never been here, but Father says that you should always be prepared.

My son is a thief!

A... a thief...

- Here. - Thank you.

Esther goes away tomorrow.

I know.

I heard them talking.

Thank you for letting me in.

That was nothing.

You know...

The worst part wasn't the war.

- The worst part was not knowing... - What?

The worst part was not knowing if they would want us when we arrived.

So thank you for letting me in!

Can I stay here or will your mom and dad be angry?

I don't think they can get angrier,

so it'll be fine.

Good morning. What are you doing?

Looking at pictures.

- Do you want to see? - Yes, I'd love to.

This is Esther taking a bath. She loves taking baths.

That's nice.

What's that?

- Letters from Mom. - Can I see?

What about them?

I've seen a letter like this before, with butterflies on it.

Where did you see that?

At the post office, a few days ago.

What?

But that has to be a letter from Mom!

...because he was of the house and lineage of David...

Isn't Karl-Bertil awake yet? We have to get going soon.

We have to let him rest, Tyko. It's Christmas Day, after all.

Not even the merry Christmas message on radio,

about peace on earth and goodwill to all people,

could soften Tyko Jonsson's mood.

Karl Bertil!

Time to get up.

Marianne!

And you'll have a garden with a playhouse, and a housemaid.

Do you know what a housemaid is?

A housemaid is someone who'll cook you breakfast.

8Sit like that. And she'll make sure you're properly dressed.

You'll get to live like a proper lady.

And you'll be free of your miserable cough.

Do you remember the letter you got from Löwenhjelm?

I threw it out.

- What about it? - Threw it out?

What? You couldn't read the address. It doesn't matter.

By the way... I may have put it in the sender pile.

How did you know I live here?

- But he said he threw the letter out! - Yes.

But according to Paragraph 4, Section 8 of the Postal Code,

all mail labeled return to sender has to be kept for a week. Come on!

Is all this lost letters and packages?

It won't work, there are too many letters.

But thank you, unknown benefactor.

I thought some joy was needed.

Close the door.

Haven't you even started?

I thought I could help out.

Thanks, that's nice, but we're short on time.

Right, that's why I brought some friends.

It's a letter with two butterflies on it.

Thanks, for the Christmas present.

But you've got to get better at disguising your voice.

Oh, how delicious!

Oh, delicious...

And now we put down our silverware at 4 o'clock to show that we're finished.

- Both at 4 o'clock, Tyko. - Both at 4 o'clock...

- It's etiquette, Tyko. - Etiquette...

Well, I've searched everywhere.

Not a sign of Karl-Bertil.

He's gone up in smoke, so to speak.

- But what if he's at the post office? - Of course he's not at the post office.

If you want to know what closed means,

you go to the post office on Christmas Day.

He's probably gone somewhere to think about his sins.

I do have some police connections...

Oh no, hold your horses! The police... We're not talking about some crook.

But Karl-Bertil is a crook according to you. You said so yourself, Tyko.

That may be, but a Jonsson sorts out his calamities on his own.

What time is it on your plate?

Does it look like this?

Yes, it's Mom's! It's Mom's letter! We've found it!

Come in!

Sooner than I expected.

I thought it would take at least two days for you to come to your senses.

There's no use running away, Vera. You should know that by now.

What's the matter with you?

Have you forged another letter?

- It's from Mom. - So why haven't you opened it?

It's for you.

What does it say?

- What does she write? - She writes...

- What are you doing?! - No! No, Vera!

Let go of me!

What have you done?!

I only look to what's best for every child!

And what's best for your little sister is to get a proper home!

Let me out! Open up!

Karl-Bertil...

Come here.

We'll have to go without Karl-Bertil.

Can we really do that?

Shouldn't we go to the gala?!

Where the heck can the boy have gone?

Look, there he is.

- Yeah... - My dear little child!

Where have you been? We've been so worried about you!

Karl-Bertil! What are you grinning at?

Well, you'll get your medal now. That's fun.

Yes, but tomorrow you've got another thing coming.

Director Jonsson, look over here! A picture for the newspaper!

Director Jonsson, look this way.

Oh, what a pleasure!

- Congratulations on the medal. - Yes, thank you.

I don't want to say too much,

but I believe we will also get a small reward tonight.

Oh, how exciting!

- Enjoy your evening. - Thank you.

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome...

How funny!

Should I tell you about the unemployed nurse? Who cares?

FIRST PRIZE!

Director Tyko Jonsson.

Go, Tyko!

Mrs. Hedqvist!

It'll be fine, you'll see.

What...

What...

But... Let me pass!

What are you doing?

Esther, come here!

I... Move!

What on earth has gotten into the boy?

What's this nonsense, Karl-Bertil?

Come sit down.

I'm sorry to interrupt when you all seem to have such a good time.

My name is Vera, and that girl standing there is my little sister Esther.

I just want to inform everyone here

that Mrs. Hedqvist is committing a crime right now.

I have to apologize for my poor children.

They often have to go through such terrible ordeals

that they lose their minds.

I haven't lost my mind!

This... is the remains of a letter. From my mother.

It says that she's alive and that she'll soon bring us back home.

And you burned it!

And how do you know that? How do you know that? Well?

Because she's here.

Mom! You came!

I've missed you!

God's honest truth, a letter can save a life.

Can I just have a moment, please?

I just want to thank you for this amazing evening.

It's had brilliant entertainment by performers of the highest quality.

Expensive cars have been raffled off,

and Director Jonsson has received a medal.

I've gotten lots of warm applause, heartfelt thanks and loving words.

But you know what?

My children can't eat heartfelt thanks for breakfast.

They can't eat warm applause for lunch.

They can't survive on just deep-felt gratitude and respect.

You think that I do great work, but you don't want to pay for it.

Except for once a year when you want to donate money,

through this rare spectacle.

Why do people have to dance in bananas

in order for poor children to get one meal a day?!

What's wrong with just giving?

I hope you enjoyed your desserts.

Thank you. Alright...

I'm so sorry...

Should we go to the coat check, so we don't have to wait in line?

Listen, I was thinking...

...that... maybe we could go to the movies on Saturday?

We could watch The Red Stagecoach.

- Ruben! - Yes?

- Get the car out in front! - Yes.

I'm sorry, but it has to be done.

On Boxing Day morning, Tyko took his tax calendar and his son

and went on a pilgrimage to a number of people

with a yearly income of more than 50,000 kronor.

Now those who had been stolen from would have their property accounted for.

Can we speak with the Bureau Director? It's regarding a Christmas present.

Good day,

Bureau Director Bergdahl.

It so happens that my son...

has given one of your Christmas presents...

to a poor person.

I'm supposed to apologize,

but you're so rich and happy even without that package.

And so I let it spread some Christmas cheer

among the bottom rungs of society.

I'll be damned

if that's not the most beautiful thing I've heard since I was confirmed.

Would you like a fig?

It must be Uncle Artur's matchstick depiction of Boden Fortress.

He called and asked about it yesterday.

I hope it was pretty,

because I told him that it was.

We usually say that when they call us.

It's not like we can keep track of all the nonsense crazy relatives send here.

Thank you, my boy, for ridding us of Boden Fortress.

Goodbye, then.

Karl-Bertil's apology tour turned into a triumphal procession.

Wherever he went, he was received as a hero.

And the robbed families' joy

about knitted wool cardigans and designer paperweights

ending up with the more needy knew no bounds.

The embarrassed look on Tyko Jonsson's face,

caused by his son's behavior,

eventually turned into a proud smile.

I may not be the right man...

to suggest this...

But I still feel...

that the mood here requires...

four cheers for my son, Karl-Bertil!

Hip-hip!

Hooray! Hooray! Hooray! Hooray!

When they headed home, the sun had already set.

And the car's headlights lit up the final moments of Boxing Day.

Well, everyone.

- Yes. - Yes.

Karl-Bertil...

You are...

a kind and nice person.

I want you to have this.

That's so nice!

Listen...

I'd rather watch that new movie Gone with the Wind.

Hooray for Karl-Bertil!

Hooray! Cheers.

Those people...

They think they're so fancy. But they're nothing!

Oh, Beata!

Snap a picture here, so we can capture this moment.

Yes... La folie des pouleron est froide.

What is she saying?

She says that the aphid's sweater is cold.

But I think she means we're supposed to smile.

This has truly been a blessed Christmas!

...said Karl-Bertil's mother, as she got a religious look in her eyes.

Because like I said, this story took place

back when Christmas was still celebrated

in memory of the birth of Christ.

And now the story of Karl-Bertil Jonsson's Christmas is over.

- Tell us more! - There's nothing more. It's over.

But why doesn't Great Grandpa ever tell it?

Because I'm dreadfully sick of that story

that Vera has told every Christmas for 45 years.

Don't you have cell phones to look at instead?

Or download one of those apps?

Don't encourage the kids to play with cell phones.

Downloading apps can be dangerous.

Everything seems dangerous these days.

But doing nothing can be even more dangerous. Haven't you been listening?

There, Christmas lunch is served.

- Let's not talk any more about it. - No, right...

- Here we go! - Let's go for a walk.

Hang on, I'll just put my keys away.

Oh, look at this.

I found this.

- Do you want it? - Oh, Karl-Bertil! You're so sweet.

- It's nice. - Thank you. Put it away.

We'll pull it out when we get back home.

Yes, we'll do that.

- Oh my god... - Let's keep going.

- Are you okay? - Yes.

Listen, I was thinking about something.

It's quite improbable that all this happened.

But then it's nice to know that it actually was true,

and not just probable. Right?

Karl-Bertil, you'll have to repeat that one more time.

- Yes... - Merry Christmas.

- Well... - Start over.

It is quite improbable that all this happened.

And even if it would be probable,

one can't be totally certain.

And then it's really nice to know that it actually was true,

and not just probable...

Revised and Synchronized by FAST TITLES MEDIA