Original subtitles

Move it.

Not again!

Don't turn left. Don't turn left!

Thank you.

THE SUMMER OF 1939

- Hello. - Hello. You are new?

- Yes. My name is Nana. - Has Mr. Skovgaard arrived?

- Yes, about an hour ago. - Oh no! The traffic was terrible.

I'm afraid he left, Mrs. Berggren. He couldn't wait any longer.

- He had an errand in the Skaw. - Damn! Thank you, miss.

I thought I heard a familiar voice. Isn't this heat awful?

The patio is the only bearable place. I'm waiting for Larsen, the taxi driver.

He usually drives around back. He's bringing Leslie.

He's been abroad for a year. I wanted to pick him up -

- but he didn't want his mother waving at the station.

- Do you know where my parents are? - Upstairs, I think.

Damn it, he left!

- He said he was in the area anyway. - Where is he from?

- The Danish Tourist Association. - We don't need more tourists.

My company needs the work.

Must we talk about it? We're going swimming.

- I'll go to him when I've unpacked. - We brought Vera, dear.

We ordered Room 4, but it was given to a new family.

- Is Vera staying in my room? - You've shared a room before.

- Yes, but that was ten years ago, Dad. - It'll be fun.

- Hi, Vera. - Hi.

Just put them on the bed if my sister's books aren't in the way.

Thank you.

- Are you angry? - No.

I just don't understand how Fie could forget our reservation.

Fie stayed in England. She had a baby. I thought you knew.

- Then who's in charge? - Take a guess.

Hello, Mrs. Berggren. Welcome. I'm in charge this year.

It was unexpected. Mrs. Andersen asked if I could open up -

- and I could hardly refuse. Valter asked if I was running the place.

Certainly not, you fool, I told him. Just until Mrs. Andersen comes home.

- So Mrs. Andersen is coming back? - Yes, indeed.

I'm sorry about the rooms. I forgot that Room 4 was booked.

It isn't booked for the whole summer. Then Vera can have it.

- We'll look forward to it. - Rooms 11 and 12 are available.

But they're booked later on for Mrs. Molin and her assistant.

It's a surprise for Mr. Weyse.

There you are, Mr. Weyse. Welcome. Did you have a pleasant trip?

- Indeed. - It's a scorcher.

But we mustn't complain. I hope you enjoy your stay.

- What a greeting. - Yes. I see you found the letter.

It came a week ago. It's probably from an admirer.

- Mr. Weyse! - Mr. Madsen.

- Do you need a magnifying glass? - Only on hot days.

I see.

Edith just welcomed me in a most vivacious manner.

I'm afraid she's dipping into the cooking sherry. Mrs. Madsen.

Mr. Weyse, Edith is in charge until Mrs. Andersen returns.

- Where are the boys? - In Copenhagen with Helene.

Her mother isn't well. She thought I should come here.

So here I am although I feel a bit guilty.

Ne courez pas, les enfants!

- Bonjour. - Bonjour.

Bonjour.

- They're French. - So I heard.

- France has plenty of beaches. - There's room for all of us.

Speaking of beaches, come for a swim.

- Yes, I'll be there in a minute. - Excellent.

- Were you serious about taking a walk? - Of course. Now?

If you like. Hans and I always walked at this time of day.

Yes, I remember. Is being here difficult this year?

I don't look at it that way.

- We had five lovely years. - When will your sister arrive?

When she's helped Adam's brother-in-law, who is coming from Austria.

- Am I walking too fast? - No, it's fine.

- How did Amanda react to the rooms? - I think they enjoy sharing a room.

But I don't understand how I could forget the reservation.

- Remember I can't be here on the 17th. - Why not?

I knew it!

I an cooking for an anniversary and I have four other engagements.

- I gave you a list of the dates. - No need to get upset, Martha.

I'll tell Mrs. Andersen.

Everyone but Mrs. Frigh is out.

We have to put flowers in Leslie's room.

- I already have. - At least someone remembers.

That's what we're like here. We tease each other.

But we had a maid named Otilia. No one dared to tease her.

- Now she takes it out on children. - Did she get married?

- No. She's a teacher in Sk�rping. - I see!

That's Mr. Larsen. Then Leslie is here.

Come on in.

- Really, Mother? - Nana helped me.

- It was your mother's idea. - I'm sure it was.

Have you had lunch? Knowing you, probably not much.

- I have eaten, Mother. - Could you make Leslie some lunch?

WELCOME HOME, LESLIE

Mrs. Frigh ordered lunch for her son.

- I just put everything away. - Then you'd better get going, Martha.

- Where has he been? - In Holland and England.

Something about tobacco. They have a factory.

- His father died here six years ago. - In one of the rooms.

I remember it clearly. The guests were here for a wedding -

- and the next day he didn't wake up. Leslie hasn't been here since.

- Then why is he here now? - His mother shouldn't be alone.

Miss, would you be an angel and bring me some hot shaving water?

- Yes. - Thank you. Aren't you...?

- You're new? - Yes, I am.

- Is today your first day? - My first day here, yes.

I have worked at another seaside hotel.

What's the name of such an experienced lady?

Nana. I'll just get the water for you.

Thank you. And if the press calls, we have a rule here.

I'm not here. I'm sure Edith already told you that.

No, she didn't, but I'll remember. What is your name?

- If someone should call. - Telephone, Mr. Weyse.

- It's your wife. - I'll take it upstairs.

- What's his full name? - Edward Weyse? He's an actor.

Haven't you heard of him?

- What is it, Helene? - Did you have a good trip?

- It must have been hot. - It was.

- You sound tired, dear. - I'm fine.

As soon as I arrived I was reminded -

- how fleeting fame is.

One moment you're the talk of the town, and the next you're forgotten.

- What do you mean, Edward? - There was a letter for me.

No, not for me. Inside was an envelope -

- and I was asked to forward it to Mr. Poul Reichhardt.

And I met the new maid. She had no idea who I am.

- That's a shame. - No, it isn't, Helene.

That's what happens when you stop starring in films.

- Then you should start again. - Never!

No, I'm finished with that. And I'm not too sure about the theater.

- Because of a maid? - No, Helene.

You're on vacation now. Just enjoy yourself and relax.

Then you can make a fresh start. Did you give Hjalmar the boys' drawings?

- I just got here, Helene! - Of course. Enjoy yourself, dear.

Yes, you're right. I'm back at my beloved hotel -

- and on vacation from the theater. Thank you, dear.

You're here, Leslie! It's so nice to see you again.

- I can hardly recognize him. - Hi there, Leslie.

What kind of handshake is that? That's better. Just like your dad's.

- You're not a momma's boy. - Georg hasn't changed.

Leslie's lunch is ready.

- You sound like an idiot, Georg. - What did I say?

Don't mind Mr. Madsen. Despite his money he's lower class.

I think he's envious of the construction companies working in Germany.

- Let's talk about my return to Holland. - There's no rush.

- We have a nice long summer. - I promised Rotterdam only two weeks.

- Two weeks? - I'm learning about tobacco leaves.

They process them in a different way. A ship will arrive in two weeks.

- I'm glad you find it interesting. - It really is! They're very kind.

- Can I get you something to drink? - We'll share a bottle of beer.

- I didn't want to bring this up yet. - What?

Berthelsen is well on in years. He needs help.

I want you to come work at the factory after our vacation.

- I can't! I'm not finished in Holland. - You can't let your mother down.

I've kept the position for you for six years, so you can't stay in Holland.

No. Of course not.

Just put it down, please.

Thank you. I know it's sudden, but I'm sure you're ready to take it on.

Your father never was, but you're nothing like him.

There we are.

Mrs. Berggren, I presume? Finally we meet. Tage Skovgaard.

Amanda Berggren. I'm sorry I missed our appointment. The traffic was terrible.

It's quite alright. Have you seen the Sand-Covered Church?

- A few times. - Do you know how many visit it?

- I'm afraid not. - Not enough.

Denmark is too beautiful to keep to ourselves. Shall we sit down?

We saw your advertising films and thought they were excellent.

We'd like to offer you a big assignment. A film about Denmark.

You're thinking of the film by that awful person who shall remain nameless.

- Poul Henningsen. - You said it!

He can make all the lamps he likes -

- but he mustn't sully our reputation with Negro music.

Do you know what expats say about it?

They don't recognize the country.

It's probably changed since they lived here.

Don't we still have cornfields, windmills and girls on bicycles -

- and cows and storks and dunes, beaches and the sea?

And the sunrise, Mrs. Berggren. Can you hear it?

Niels W. Gade's wonderful "The Elf King's Daughter".

We can picture the sun rising and burning off the mist.

- You can film it from your hotel. - That's where the sun sets though.

Exactly. I can tell you've got it. Hold this, please.

Here is the script. We're targeting our neighboring country down south.

- There is a lovely country. - A perfect title.

We're convinced that 1940 will be remembered -

- as the year the Germans spotted little Denmark.

... the heatwave will continue accompanied by thunderstorms.

That was today's weather report.

- I thought I'd find you here. - Hello, Mr. Weyse.

- Helene sends her regards. - I heard her mother is ill.

You never know if it's a false alarm, but Helene was worried.

- How is it going with the housekeeper? - Very well. She knows all my habits.

- I'm very pleased. - I have a gift from the boys.

"For Uncle Hjalmar." I will hang them up in my room immediately.

Thank them for me. No, I'll call them one of these days.

By the way...

I very much admire the decision you made this spring.

That you let yourself be replaced in "Erasmus Montanus".

Well, that was just... I was slightly run down.

Wasn't there another reason? The guest performance in Berlin?

Why does the Royal Theater consort with those people?

In the photos, Bodil Ipsen was standing among people saluting Hitler.

Well done for refusing to participate. I didn't know you had it in you.

There's a limit to what I'll let myself in for.

As I said before: I very much admire you for it.

Thank you.

- Hello? - It's me.

I gave the boys' drawings to Hjalmar. He'll call and thank them.

- When he does... - Speak up.

When he calls, confirm his belief -

- that I refused to perform in Germany as a form of protest.

- Surely he doesn't believe that! - I'm telling you that he does.

Did you see pictures of Bodil Ipsen among people saluting Hitler?

Haven't you seen them? How can Hjalmar think you'd be in a protest?

It's strange, but I couldn't tell him why I didn't participate.

- Why not? He wouldn't tell anyone. - It's nobody else's business.

Don't be ashamed. It happens to actors all the time.

- I'm sure it's just temporary. - It's permanent.

No, it isn't.

Severin? I'll be right there. I'm on the telephone with Daddy.

- I have to go. - Well! By all means.

Goodbye. We love you.

Thank you, sweetheart. I'm glad to hear it.

Ane?

I didn't know you had a daughter. How old is she?

Six. I was very young.

- What's her name? - Emma.

She's with my father and Mrs. Andersen in England.

My sister just had a son over there. So my daughter went abroad before me.

- Whose shirt is it? - Young Mr. Frigh's.

His mother thought it was wrinkled.

Does he always let her boss him around?

He's here against his will and will move to Copenhagen -

- although he'd prefer Holland. He just puts up with it.

He's happy. Wouldn't you be happy if someone gave you a factory?

- That's fantastic, Amanda. Isn't it? - Yes.

I'm not sure I'll get the assignment. He'll probably ask Gutenberghus.

Did he say so? You look hot. Go for a swim.

I don't have time. He wants a budget tomorrow, and I have to find a crew.

- They're all on vacation. - So are you.

- No, we have to film in the summer. - What does Max say?

I don't know, Dad.

- You could be more supportive. - What about her marriage?

- What if she's never home? - You're so old-fashioned.

- "A woman belongs in the kitchen." - She can visit the bedroom too.

Stop it. What the hell?

Christiani & Nielsen got another order in Germany.

They're all working there.

- But our offers are always declined. - Aren't you already making good money?

- Have you seen Leslie? - No. Have you, Georg? Leslie.

- No, I haven't. - I fell asleep. It must be the heat.

- He's not in his room. - Perhaps he's on the beach?

I doubt it. Leslie never liked to go swimming here.

Is he still afraid of the water?

- That was totally unnecessary, Georg. - Oh.

Yes?

- May I come in? Amanda has to work. - Yes, of course. Do come in.

I haven't finished the book yet. I think it's exciting.

I can't figure out who did it.

Olga quickly figures it out. She says it's about using common sense.

If you think while you're reading, the author hasn't done his job.

I quite agree. A story should speak to our feelings.

Just like falling in love.

When is your sister coming? Is she meeting Adam's brother-in-law?

Yes. I was just thinking about him.

Sibylle's brother has lived in Vienna for years with his Austrian wife.

They are Jewish, you know. In November when the Jews were attacked -

- he lost his wife.

Lost?

Was she killed?

She tried to stop some bullies from demanding of her parents -

- that they got on their knees and washed the sidewalk.

I haven't told Mr. Aurland this. He gets so upset.

You know how he feels about what's going on in Germany.

It's a good thing Sibylle's brother is coming home.

It'll do him good.

But on a more pleasant note, how are you doing at the university?

You are studying English. Are there any nice young men?

I don't know. Most of them are immature.

I see.

Hello. Nothing has changed here.

- Hello, Mrs. Molin. Welcome. - Edith, you're still here?

- Yes. - I spoke to Mrs. Andersen.

Yes, she told me. She said that we weren't to tell Mr. Weyse.

- Is he here? - Yes.

I'll show you to your room. Nana, will you get the luggage?

- This is new. - Yes, it's our radio room.

Fie doesn't live here anymore.

Your assistant is in Room 11, and you get Room 12 with two windows.

Here you are.

- Otilia? - Hello, Edith.

- What are you doing here? - I work for Mrs. Molin.

I thought you knew. I promised to read with her -

- and improve her Danish. She has a big role to play this fall.

Those are Mrs. Molin's. The other one is mine.

That is Otilia, who I told you about. I had no idea she was coming.

Didn't you air out Mrs. Molin's room either? It's stifling in there.

- Then open the window. - You should have thought of that.

- Otilia? - Yes, of all people!

We just talked about her. Speak of the devil...

- She complained at once. - I should have thought of airing out.

- She always nitpicks. - Did you mention Otilia?

- She's Mrs. Molin's assistant. - Mrs. Frigh still can't find Leslie.

- She even tried the beach. - The French family left plates there.

I haven't forgotten, Martha. Don't pretend to be Otilia.

Yes?

- Mrs. Molin? - Surprise!

- May I come in? - Of course.

Please excuse my attire. It's awfully hot.

- Are you passing through? - No, I'm staying all summer.

We can rehearse the play together. Shakespeare. "The Taming of the Shrew".

I have hired Otilia, as you advised, so my pronunciation will be spot on.

Of course, but...

I looked forward to seeing "Erasmus Montanus", but you were replaced.

- Were you ill? - No. Yes and no.

I had a little accident. It was distressing.

I'll tell you, but only because you've come all this way.

I forgot my lines in the middle of "Erasmus Montanus".

- It's no laughing matter. - I'm sorry.

I was reciting, "A stone can't fly. Mother can't fly."

"Ergo Mother is..."

- I couldn't remember the word. - Isn't it just "a stone"?

- "Ergo Mother is a stone." - Yes, but I couldn't remember it.

It was gone. I have wondered why.

Have I recited too many words?

Too many lines that have been transformed into art? Perhaps.

- Everyone has forgotten a line. - I haven't. Not a single word.

- There's a first time for everything. - You don't understand.

This has cut me to the quick -

- so I've taken a leave of absence from the theater.

Unfortunately, I won't be in "The Taming of the Shrew".

You can't be serious. You have tried to convince me for five years -

- to work at the Royal Theater. I declined great roles in Sweden!

- I'm so sorry. - I'm here to read with you!

It would have been lovely.

Perhaps we can convince Poul Reumert.

He's not bad on a good day.

Mr. Frigh?

Swim to the side!

Swim to the side! Away from the current!

Hold on to me!

Lie still!

- Are you alright? - Of course I'm alright!

And so are you. Now you have a juicy story to tell the others.

Mrs. Molin?

You were missed at dinner.

I brought you some dessert.

Please don't do this. You and I shouldn't fall out.

Come downstairs and be with us.

Alright then.

I put it right here.

All you have to do is to make a note of it on the calendar.

- Otherwise there's no one to cook. - I'll write it down now.

Hello, Martha. How are you?

- Fine. - And your mother?

She's recovered. Is it fun being a teacher?

- Fun? - Or a good thing?

- Yes, thanks. - Imagine you being a guest here.

It came as a surprise to me too. They'd like some more coffee.

It's on its way.

- How well do you know the new maid? - Nana? Why do you ask?

- Where is she from? - She worked at another seaside hotel.

Did she give you any references?

- Why do you ask? - It was just something I saw.

- It's probably not... - What was it?

Leslie came home from the beach with wet hair, and after him, came Nana.

- I imagine they went swimming. - But they don't know each other.

But we've heard of girls who are on the make -

- and Leslie is a catch.

- I'm sure Nana isn't like that. - I just thought I'd mention it.

- The coffee is coming. - Thanks.

You're welcome. Sorry to keep you waiting.

Don't mention it. It gave me time to consider your move.

This is not good. Didn't you say you were inexperienced?

- Is Leslie poorly? - No, he just wanted an early night.

- It was a long and hot trip. - Luckily, the weather has broken.

All done?

Yes. I made a budget. And my photographer is free.

- Coffee? - It's just what I need.

- Amanda is making a tourist film. - I haven't landed it yet.

- Still, congratulations. - Thanks.

You're here!

- Did you get the dessert? - Yes, I almost stepped in it.

I just want to have some coffee brought up.

Now you're here, you're not leaving. You know what?

I'll play a song for you.

I've got you under my skin

You're a fine one!

I've got you deep in the heart of me

I doubt it.

So deep in my heart that you're really a part of me

Yeah, right.

I've got you under my skin

I've tried so, not to give in

I said to myself this affair never would go so well

But why should I try to resist, when, darling, I know so well

that I've got you under my skin?

Now stay and have coffee with us. I can tell that you will.

Alright then.

I can tell that he's an actor.

He sings almost every night. Didn't they do that at your hotel?

No, not at all.

Did you go for a swim before dinner?

Otilia saw that your hair was wet.

I just had a quick dip. It was so hot when I cleared the dishes on the beach.

- She also noticed Leslie's wet hair. - He must have swum somewhere else.

I didn't see him.

We usually take our baths during the afternoon break.

I'm sorry. I didn't know that.

How could you know if you haven't been told?

Are you serious about this, Amanda? This film?

- Please leave my things alone. - It's kitsch. A picture postcard.

It has nothing to do with real life. It's the brainchild of sick people.

It's superficial, and it makes me sick.

- Then please be sick elsewhere. - Listen to this.

"Denmark is a hospitable country that welcomes everyone with open arms."

- Who wrote this? - Just give it to me, Vera.

- It sounds like Valdemar R�rdam. - It was the director of tourism.

It sounds like German propaganda. Healthy and proud people.

It's a tourism film. Relax.

- I wouldn't touch it. - What would you touch?

You just want to live off Dad's money. Turn the light off. I want to sleep.

Attendez-nous, les enfants! Bonjour.

- What is it they keep saying? - I think they're saying hello.

I see.

I spoke to Mrs. Molin last night.

Her ex helped Christiani & Nielsen get contacts in Germany.

- I should talk to him. - Isn't he on vacation?

Yes, in the Skaw. At Klitgaarden.

- With the royal couple? - Very convenient.

But you can't be thinking of disturbing the royal couple?

- Georg, you mustn't! - No. I heard what you said.

Good morning. Congratulations. I hear you'll work at the factory.

How exciting.

- Coffee or tea? - Coffee, please. Leslie?

- Please. - I think he means coffee.

- What are you doing? - Put me through to Klitgaarden.

The king won't answer the phone. Some lackey will -

- and I'll just ask for Molin.

Is this Klitgaarden? Who's this?

Your Majesty? I'm sorry to bother you.

My name is Georg Madsen. Georg Madsen.

We've actually met before.

I thanked you for the Order of Chivalry. No, I'm not thanking you again.

I'm sorry to call and disturb you.

I understand you have a guest. Mr. August Molin the stockbroker.

If I could...

No, I can call back later if it's inconvenient.

Would you, Your Majesty? That's awfully kind of you.

Thank you kindly, Your Majesty. Thank you. He's getting him!

- It's embarrassing! - He's really nice, Therese.

- Hello? It's Madsen. - Madsen?

- Madsen the merchant. - Oh, Madsen. Long time no see.

I'm sorry about inconveniencing His Majesty.

- He's expecting a call from the prince. - I'll be brief.

I understand that you helped Christiani & Nielsen into the German market.

That's correct, but I'm on vacation, so I'm pressed for time.

- How did you know I was here? - Your ex-wife is staying here.

- Alma? - She's staying all summer.

I see.

I could perhaps drop by when I'm on my way home in a few days.

- Do you have time? - Yes, my wife...

I remarried. She's one of the queen's ladies-in-waiting.

They're going to play golf down south, so it suits me just fine.

- Then I will see you soon. - You will, Mr. Madsen.

- I'll look forward to it. - Yes.

Molin is coming, Therese. And it is possible to call the king.

- Good morning. - Good morning.

I haven't asked you how things are -

- with you and Valter. How many children do you have?

Three. Astrid is six, Aksel is four and Ole is two.

They're at my parents. I'll see them when Mrs. Andersen returns.

Ane told me that Valter took over the smithy. He must be busy.

Edith, did you ask Nana about yesterday?

Yes, I did. She had a quick dip, but she didn't see Leslie.

- There's no need to worry. - I'm glad.

I was about to come ask you if you'd like to take a walk.

Perhaps later. I talked to the theater manager, Mr. Konradsen.

I said if you aren't performing, neither am I.

Mrs. Molin, isn't that a bit drastic?

He was surprised to hear you aren't performing. He expected you back.

I haven't talked to him yet.

He said he couldn't replace us.

He said he'd never find a more sublime Petruchio than you. And I agree.

You know that flattery will get you everywhere.

- But as I said... - I told Konradsen what you said.

- I told him you have stage fright. - You told him?

- I told you that in all confidence. - I had no idea.

What did he say?

That he couldn't honor your contract -

- unless you accepted his offer.

So he threatened to fire me unless I accepted his offer.

I see. Well, well.

- What offer? - A psychologist?

Yes, Helene. And he found one. Professor Bach-Olsen -

- who is on vacation nearby and will treat me.

If Mr. Konradsen threatens to fire you, you should consider returning.

He can't decide when I, as an artist, am ready to meet my audience.

Go ahead and send psychologists! If this professor thinks -

- he can mess with my head, he's mistaken.

He'll find nothing there, Helene. Nothing.

I finished it last night. It was very suspenseful.

I never made it downstairs last night.

Would you like to borrow another? I have one that is a little different.

"In the Darkness Everything is Clear."

I like the title. I'm not familiar with the author.

- Arve Myhre. Is he Norwegian? - I think he's Danish.

You're here! My sister has arrived.

Did you welcome Sibylle's brother?

- No. - What do you mean?

- Hello, Mrs. Fjelds�. - Hello, Vera.

Olga, why not? Wasn't he on the plane?

- Yes, but he wasn't allowed in. - I hear you've arrived.

- Was all well with Sibylle's brother? - He wasn't allowed in.

- But he's Danish. - He's an Austrian citizen by marriage.

After the German invasion, all the Jews have German passports -

- stamped with a J.

- I forgot that they were Jewish. - Does it make a difference?

Unfortunately. A big difference.

All the Jews trying to escape the horror -

- are turned away at our border. It's the government's decision.

Adam and Sibylle had a letter from their bank stating -

- that he wouldn't be a burden on the Danish state.

I explained that he could stay in my apartment until he left for the US -

- but to no avail.

He was put on the return flight to Berlin.

- What's wrong? - Mrs. Fjelds� arrived.

Sibylle's brother was turned away.

"Denmark is a hospitable country that welcomes everyone with open arms."

Can I have a word?

I wasn't very polite yesterday. I'm sorry. I don't know what got into me.

I don't know why I went swimming. I never do.

You may have heard. I wanted to cool off and was sucked down.

You were caught in the undertow.

If you had swum to the side, you'd have been free.

- Are you fond of swimming? - I grew up by the seaside.

There isn't much else to do there.

My father told me about the undertow. I can still see him standing out there.

Big and mightly No waves could knock him over.

I heard what happened to your father.

- I haven't been here since. - I get that.

You do? You're the first person to say so.

Thank you for being there.

I imagine you've already told everyone else.

- I haven't told anyone. - You haven't? You're not normal.

I'm not?

I didn't mean it like that.

Subtitles: Karen Margrete Wiin Dansk Video Tekst