Original subtitles

Well, home from the movies at last.

- Looks like it, aunt Mattie. - Huh.

- Hello, dad. - Hello, son.

Mr. Blodgett: Well, daughter, how was

the moving picture tonight?

Mm, lovely.

Mush. That's what it was. Just a lot of mush.

There wasn't anybody killed in the whole thing.

No? Well, then, I'll stick to these. These don't talk.

And that big cluck, Norman Maine was in the picture tonight.

Never does anything, but kiss a lot of girls.

Norman Maine is one of the best actors in pictures.

You and your movies. That's all you think about.

You shouldn't be allowed to go to 'em at all

if you're asking me.

Too bad I was so busy in the kitchen.

I didn't hear anybody asking you.

- Hello, granny. - Hello, darling.

But, of course, no one ever listens to me.

They'd do if they're within ten miles of ya.

Gathering around picture shows.

House all cluttered up with movie magazines.

And the other day I caught her

talking to a horse, with a Swedish accent.

0h, sis, we're only young once, you know?

Ah! Hollywood.

You'd better be getting yourself a good husband

and stop mooning about Hollywood.

Do you know what she wants to do?

She wants to go to Hollywood.

I've known it all along.

I've seen her making faces in the mirror

and talking to herself.

That's what comes of your movies.

Why, what would you do if you did go to Hollywood?

- I'd be an actress. - Ha-ha-ha!

I would, I tell ya. I've always known I could.

Guys, wouldn't it be wonderful to have a

movie star in the family?

0h, Ms. Blodgett, may I have your autograph?

You may not know it, Alec,

but you're practically on your way to bed.

0h, Ms. Blodgett, you're my favorite actress.

Won't you tell me the secret of your success?

0h, let me alone.

Uh, Esther, what's come over you?

I'll tell you what's come over her.

She's just a silly little girl

whose head has been turned by the movies.

And the sooner she forgets the whole thing

the better off she'll be.

W... why will I be better off?

What's wrong with wanting to get out

and make something of myself?

What do you do that's so much better?

Just because you're satisfied to sit here all your life

you think you can laugh at me?

Well, someday you won't laugh at me.

I'm going out and have a real life.

I'm going to be somebody!

And now if it was spring

I'd say, give her a good dose of sulfur and molasses.

Hm, I thought I'd find ya up.

0h, stop that. Now, stop crying.

That isn't going to do you a bit good.

Well, I'm crying because aunt Mattie

and Alec make me so mad.

0h, Alec and aunt Mattie. Fiddlesticks.

They're not important.

You're the only one that counts.

Esther, everyone in this world

who has ever dreamed about better things

has been laughed at, don't you know that?

Well, I suppose I do, but...

But there's a difference between dreaming and doing.

The dreamers just sit around and moon about how wonderful

it would be if only things were different.

And the years roll on and they grow old

and by and by they forget everything

even about their dreams.

Oh, I don't want to be like that. I want to be somebody.

Oh, yes. Oh, yeah. You want to be somebody.

But you want it to be easy.

Oh, you modern girls give me a pain.

When I wanted something better

I came across those plains in a prairie schooner

with your grandfather.

0h, everyone laughed at us

as they did at all the other pioneers.

They said this country would never be anything,

but a wilderness.

We didn't believe that.

We were going to make a new country.

Besides, we wanted to see our dreams come true.

0h, granny, it must have been wonderful.

It was wonderful.

But don't you think for one single minute

that it was easy, Esther blodgett.

We burned in summer and we froze in winter

but we kept right on going and we didn't complain

because we were doing what we wanted to do.

Can you understand that?

Yes, I can.

Could you do it?

Could you do it even if it broke your heart?

Because remember, Esther, for every dream

of yours you make come true,

you'll pay the price in heartbreak.

Mm, I know what I'm talking about.

You may not believe it but I was a young girl once.

And a very pretty young girl. A lot prettier than you are.

Well, I was in love with your grandfather.

And when some Indian devil put a bullet through him

I felt as if it had come right straight through my heart, too.

But I remembered all he taught me.

And I went right armed.

I buried him out there on that wilderness with my own hands.

And I went right on that same day.

And I kept right on going even when your mother was born.

0h, granny, I want to make it worthwhile.

You know, Esther,

there'll always be a wilderness to conquer.

Maybe Hollywood's your wilderness now.

From all I hear, it sounds like it.

But if you've got one drop of my blood in your veins

you won't let Mattie or any of her kind break your heart.

You'll go right out there and break it yourself.

That's your right!

Here. Oh, here, here. Stop that nonsense.

Here. Take this and go to your Hollywood.

- Oh, I can't take your money. - Well, why not?

It's your savings.

Well, I was only saving up for my funeral.

Now I don't think I'm ever going to die.

0h, granny, how can I ever thank you?

By giving me your word of honor

that you will never tell a living soul

where you got that money.

Well, I promise.

Remember, if you do

I'll have you arrested for robbing me.

Whoa, whoa, whoa.

Here we are.

- May I help you, granny? - Oh, I can make it, dear.

Oh! Oh, my, this is cold. Ooh.

I kissed dad goodbye.

Just a little kiss. He didn't even wake up.

I bet you didn't try that on your aunt Mattie.

0h, aunt Mattie. Think of her face when you tell her.

I am thinking about it.

I've waited for that chance for 30 years.

- There she is, girl. - Oh, thank you.

Well, come on, come on.

There it is, your prairie schooner.

Man 1: All aboard!

0h, granny.

Go on, go on, go on, go on.

- Goodbye, granny. - Buh-bye.

I'll be waiting for you in those moving pictures.

Don't tell Mattie.

You know my eyes are not as good as they used to be

but my ears are alright.

So you remember. Talk up good and loud!

Huh.

All aboard.

- Goodbye. - Bye.

Esther: Bye, granny!

Do you want to go home now?

I don't want to... but I will.

Good afternoon.

Day, week or month?

Well, it's a little hard to say.

You see, I'm going into the movies.

Well, you better take it for a week.

It'll break yourjump to Beverly Hills.

Are all the studios really near here?

All except gaumont British. Uh...

Isuppose, the best way to get a job

is to go straight to the studios, isn't it?

Mm-hmm.

I haven't any illusions, you know?

I'm perfectly willing to begin with

oh, a little bit of a part or even as an extra.

Six dollars, please, in advance.

I... I beg your pardon.

I... I'd like to register for extra work.

How long have you been in Hollywood?

Well, it's about a month now.

Secretary: We haven't put anyone on our books for over two years.

Come here.

I'd like to show you something.

Central casting. Try later.

Central casting. Try later.

Every time you see one of those little lights flash

it's somebody asking for a job.

Every time you hear them say, "try later"

it means there isn't any job.

We can't keep the girls at the switchboard long.

They go crazy.

Everyone of those little lights thought

it was going to be a star.

You still want to go in the movies?

You know what your chances are?

One in a hundred thousand.

But maybe... I'm that one.

Any phone calls for me, Mr. Randall?

Oh, no.

Jesse lasky and Sammy Goldman

must be writing the letters instead.

- How was the luck today? - Hm, there wasn't any.

Maybe you don't go at it in the right way.

Now, take Danny mcgwire here.

He knows the ropes. Uh, don't you, Danny?

Sure, I've had 'em around my neck for years.

Huh! What? 0h.

Uh, Ms. Blodgett, Danny mcguire, our new tenant.

- How do you do? - Mr. Mcguire is a big director.

0h. Are you, really?

0h, could you possibly use me in a picture, Mr. Mcguire?

Of course, I haven't had much experience

but I don't think that really matters

if you're willing, a... and I...

Now, listen, lady.

In the first place, I'm not a director.

I'm an assistant director.

In the second place, if I had any jobs to give away

I'd confer one on myself.

And in the third place, you should've stayed

back home in the first place.

Oh, now, look what you've done.

Hey, wait a minute. Hey, don't be that way.

Don't do that.

Gosh, I didn't mean to get tough

but... a guy thinks he's being kidded

when somebody asks him for a job

when... he hasn't got one for himself.

After all, I'm not a big enough shot

to hurt your feelings.

Oh, I'm... I'm sorry.

It wasn't just that, oh, it was a lot of things.

Looking for a job every day

and never getting any nearer to it.

I guess I was beginning to get a little scared.

I know. Lady, do I know.

Well, there's only one thing to do for that feeling

when you're tired and sunk and down to your last nickel.

Come on and I'll buy you a drink.

Oh, it's not as bad as down to the last nickel.

I've still got $11 left.

Eleven dollars?

You're gonna buy me a drink. Come on.

Danny: That's right, George.

There's nothing like a little rum

to take away that milk flavor.

I beg your pardon.

Certainly! Heh-heh.

And when I sign my contract, the first thing I'm going to do

is see that you direct every picture I'm in.

That's my pal.

Of course, I'm going to be perfectly nice about it,

but I'll just insist.

Now that's the way to talk. Don't let 'em lick you.

Oh, I should say they can't lick me.

If they try anything like that, why...

I just won't sign.

Now, that's right. What have you got to lose?

Another one of these and we'll open our own studio.

Randall: "Bill rendered, $24.

Past due. Remit without further delay."

Now the fifth race.

Uh, fifth race. Triken. Triken. Who's running triken?

Hey, the program's gonna be swell tonight.

Now, you take this fella Beethoven.

I'm a pushover for him.

And chopin? Well, he's not so dusty, either.

But I kinda wish that once in a while

they'd play something you could

sort of go out whistling, you know, like...

J“ blood on the saddle blood on... n

well, there is a tune.

Hey, why don't you throw your hat

in the air or something, can't you?

This is a celebration. My job starts tomorrow.

I know it does. And I think it's swell, Danny.

Gee, I wish you were in on it, too.

But, oh, no, it would have to be a war picture

with those big novelty numbers, a war picture

without any beautiful women at the front.

Oh, well, something will happen soon.

Maybe.

Why don't you go home, kid?

Oh, Danny, I can't do that.

I came here and I've got to stay.

Well, now, if it's on account of money, I can...

Oh, well, thank you. You've given me enough already.

Anyhow, this is no time to be worrying. This is a party.

Look at all the people.

Everybody in the world.

Look.

That's Norman Maine.

Alright, and he seems to have had that one extra cocktail.

Oh, thank you.

Sit down, you dope.

That's for the orchestra leader.

- Oh, hello now! - Hello, Norman.

Oh, Mr. Maine. Mr. Maine.

Put your arm around Ms. Regis.

Otto, this is a Hollywood bowl.

- Oh, afraid of crowds. - Just go on, go on.

- Get out of here. - What's the matter?

You're getting too big to bother with photographers?

I just don't want any pictures taken now.

Oh, is that so? Well, supposing I take it anyway?

If you do, I'll shove that brownie number two

of yours down your throat.

Thank you, Mr. Maine.

Regis: Norman, stop it. Stop now and let him go.

- Take it easy, mister. - Come on, take him away.

Normie, come back and sit down.

Everybody's laughing at you.

- Alright, are you? - Hi, Norman.

Is he always like that?

Well, I suppose he has to sleep sometime.

Oh, and he's so wonderful on the screen.

Shh!

Come in.

Hello, Danny.

What's the matter?

Well, believe it or not, I got a job for you.

Danny, that's wonderful!

When do I go to the studio?

Well, you don't exactly go to the studio.

Oh, it's on location?

Well, it's not exactly on location.

But, of course, I haven't any makeup.

Would you tell me what to get

and sort of help me put it on?

Well, you don't exactly need any makeup.

You see, it's not really a picture job, it's... it's...

Well, it's being a waitress.

Well, it's kind of a picture job if you look at it, right?

You said it was a waitress.

Well, it's waitressing for Casey Burke

the big director over at our studio.

He's giving a party tonight to kind of celebrate

on account of finishing the picture

and... and he wanted me to get him an extra waitress

and it's five dollars.

And I thought of you right away, Esther.

That was awfully sweet of you, Danny.

Well, well, there's gonna be

a lot of big people at Burke's house tonight.

And I'll bet you, there's any number of big directors.

And if you're there, maybe they'll notice you.

I could make them notice me.

Sure you could, Esther, it's your chance.

My chance.

Alright, Danny, I'll do it.

Oh. Oh, but I can't.

I haven't got the right things to wear.

To wear? Oh, oh, yes.

Now, you don't think the wardrobe department's

right next to my office for nothing, do you?

A perfect fit.

Did you get to the preview last night?

I did.

Would you like a little hors d'oeuvre?

They are very nice.

Well, thanks.

What did you think of the picture?

Man 2: You should have saved it for Thanksgiving.

What a Turkey!

Will you have some hors d'oeuvre?

You do like hors d'oeuvre, don't you?

I don't think there's anything so enjoyable

as hors d'oeuvre before supper.

And these are really delightful.

And at the finish, the kid turns around

and sings a lullaby to its mother.

Uh, pardon me, big boys

but would you like a little hors d'oeuvre?

Uh, they say they're the best in town.

Don't tell me. I know.

Mae west. That's a great twist.

But where are you gonna find a

two-month-old baby that can sing?

- Huh. Hello, Oliver. - Oh, hello, Casey.

You want to fire me now or wait till you see the picture?

I'm not a director anymore, I'm a male nurse.

What's the matter with the picture?

A guy by the name of Norman Maine.

His work is beginning to interfere with his drinking.

Oliver, don't tell me I'm to direct his next picture, too.

Mm-hmm.

You were my favorite producer.

Now, wait a minute. You just go right on with your directing.

I'll take care of these stars. I know how to handle them.

I had a serious talk with Norman after that, uh

Hollywood bowl occurrence, and you don't have to

worry anymore about his behavior.

Butler: Excuse me, Mr. Niles.

Mr. Libby of your publicity department is on the telephone.

He says it's most important, sir.

- It's about Mr. Maine. - Thank you.

Oh, it's probably just some little thing.

Mm-hmm. Of course, Oliver.

I'll turn on the radio and see

if they've called out the national guard yet.

Hello, Libby, what's the good word?

Mr. Norman Maine, america's prince charming

was apprehended driving an ambulance

down Wilshire boulevard with the siren going full blast.

He explained he was a tree surgeon on a maternity case.

Well, bu... but will it be in the papers?

No, it won't be in the papers.

But that's a nice, expensive hobby of yours

keeping Mr. Maine's informal entertainments

out of the public press.

Oh, that's fine work, Libby.

Uh, try and see that no one gets to Norman.

He's probably home sleeping it off.

- Oliver? - Yeah.

Why can't you forget those dopes at the studio for one night?

Business, business all the time.

I don't know what's gonna become of you.

- Norman. - Yeah.

Why didn't you call for me?

Oh, I'll bite, darling, why didn't I call for you?

In case you've forgotten, I was supposed to come here with you.

Oh, that. Oh, that's alright. I got here without any trouble.

The only reason I don't slap your face...

Yes, yes, darling, I... I know. Heh.

- Hello, John. Hi. - Oh, hello, man...

Hey, what's the matter with Oliver?

He looks as if he'd had bad news.

Hello. Hello, Mary.

What's the matter, old boy?

Maybe I'm wrong. I guess I've been drinking too much lately.

Oh, you have to cut it down. It's bad stuff.

Scotch and soda.

Come on, come on, come on.

The word, you know, is pronounced when.

- Oh, boy. - Bad dialogue, Oliver.

I'd rather not watch this.

You know best.

Soda.

Thank you.

Go ahead and say it. I've got it coming to me.

Don't make it tougher on me, Norman.

I don't want to stand here and preach.

But take a look at my side of it.

I'm trying to make pictures with you.

I know, I know.

Costs are going up and the grosses are going down.

No, it isn't that. I've made lots of money with you.

And I can afford to take a loss

but I hate to see you going the way of so many others.

Why don't you get lloyds to insure you against me?

You can't get insurance against a man forgetting who he is.

You're a great star, Norman, but there's nobody so big

that he can afford to have people refuse to work with him.

Who doesn't want to work with me?

Shh! Quiet.

Listen, I know plenty of people who do.

Yes, and so do I.

But your real friends can't stand

seeing you start to fall apart.

What do you mean by that?

The first signs are always the same.

Not being able to remember your lines.

Camera man struggling to cover your hangovers.

And all because you have to have a good time

every day and every night.

Listen, I've warned you for a long time...

Okay, Oliver, you're a swell guy.

You won't lose any money on me, I'll promise you that.

I'll be ready for the curtains when the time comes.

When it does, here's my epithet.

And now I think I'll, uh, have a little drink.

Scotch and soda.

Scotch and soda.

Come on, come on, come on, come.

Now a little soda.

- Caviar? - No, thank you.

Yes, uh-uh, pardon me.

Um, lovely, lovely.

- No, I... I mean the caviar. - Mm-hmm.

No, don't... don't go away. I'm... I'm starving.

Mm, really.

Norman: Which... which would you take?

- Well, I don't know. - Don't you know?

Oh, I... I don't know, either. It's hard to choose.

Well, I think I'll take caviar.

Mr. Maine doesn't care for any more.

- Do you, normie? - No.

No, normie doesn't care for any more.

I think I shall get very drunk, indeed.

Scotch and so...

Sorry, I... I have some here.

- 0h. - Mind if I help?

- Won't they miss you? - Oh, no, no.

They'll just look under the table

and when they see I'm not there, they'll forget the whole matter.

Hey, what, uh... Hey, what... what's your name?

- Esther blodgett. - My name is Maine.

- I know - you do? Oh.

What's... what's so funny?

I was just thinking about all your fans

and how surprised they'd be to see you here

helping me put plates away.

Oh, they... they don't know my finer side.

They'd be pretty envious of me meeting you this way in person.

Oh. How do you do?

Well, tell me, a... are, are... are you disappointed?

Yes.

Oh. Now you've done it.

Oh, never mind that.

That makes the room look lived in.

Tell me, uh, why... why... Why are you disappointed?

I was sitting behind you at the Hollywood bowl

the night you didn't want to be photographed.

I'm told I crept in to many a heart that night.

Oh, I can never explain this.

You know, you have very pretty hair.

- You better get out of here. - And a sensitive mouth.

And a charming little dimple...

Precisely, why are you here

instead of with the rest of the guests?

Well, I was just trying to be helpful, like...

I see. Are you sure there's no other attraction?

Well, it might be that my old mania

for putting plates away is coming back on me.

It's rather odd I always know where I can find you

if there's a pretty girl around.

It's not only odd, it's embarrassing.

You're being deliberately insulting, Norman.

- I've put up with this long... - Now, now, now, dear.

Don't lose your temper.

Remember, one must try to keep the voice low.

I know you'll excuse us if we go on with our work.

Now see what you've done.

Come here. Help me up.

- Are you hurt? - Uh-uh.

No, no more than usual.

Come on, the wolves are on us. We got to get out of here.

Oh, I can't. The dishes aren't finished.

- Oh, yes, they are. - Oh!

I'll bet I know what you're gonna say now.

- What? - Goodnight.

Goodnight and thanks.

Hey, wait a minute, wait a minute.

Hey, uh, you realize that all I found out about you

is that you are foolish enough to want to go into pictures?

But why is it foolish? Look at you.

Yeah. That's what I mean.

No, I'd, uh... I'd rather like to go into this matter

little more thoroughly.

Oh, that's awfully nice of you.

Ah. Uh, why, uh...

Why don't we, uh, go on up to my place

and, uh, talk it over?

Oh, no. Thank you very much.

But I really must say goodnight.

Goodnight.

But you're not angry?

No, no, no, no, no.

I'm hungry.

Well, well, why don't you go and get something to eat?

Goodnight, Ms. Blodgett.

Goodnight, Mr. Maine.

Norman: Wait a minute. Here.

The least I can do is to see you to your door.

Will I see you again?

I hope so.

Has anyone ever told you that you're lovely?

Well, now you know it.

Thank you.

It's, uh...

It is hard to say, but I... I want to say it anyway.

You know, on a... on a screen, I'm a...

You know...

In private life, I'm a...

Well, you know.

But whatever I do, I... I still respect lovely things.

And you're lovely.

You understand?

Yes, I... I think I do.

And it... it isn't that bump on the head that's doing this.

Well, I'm glad.

- Goodnight. - Goodnight.

Do you mind if I take just... just one more look?

Go away. Quite impossible.

I wouldn't even consider it. No, no, no.

Hello?

Who is it?

Who? Norman?

What have you done now?

You're not in jail, are you?

Yes, I see.

Oh, it's that again? I see.

She's beautiful. Yeah, I know.

You want me to give her a screen test?

Yeah, certainly. She's got wonderful possibilities.

Ah, you know she's got something.

Well, you knew all the other ones had something, too.

Oh, no.

I tell you, Oliver, she's got that sincerity

and... and honestness and, uh... uh,

sin, uh, sincerity and honestness that, uh,

that makes great actresses, you...

Oliver, I am so sure of this girl

that I want to take the test with her myself.

Listen, Oliver, you worked hard, you're entitled to a break.

You get...

Yes, I heard you.

Anything, anything!

Yes, yes.

Oliver, look.

You... you try to get a little sleep now, old man, you...

Alright. Alright, boy. Good... goodnight.

Come, let's go. Now tell me...

Wait a minute now.

Hello, phonebook.

Heho, phonebook!

Where is it?

Where's the telephone book? You...

There you are, little telephone book. Oh, yes.

J“ oleander oleander oleander oleander j“

J“ oleander oleander oleander oleander j“

J“ o... oleander j'j'

Seven, four...

Telephone.

Esther: For me?

Some drunk trying to be funny, says he's Norman Maine.

Esther: Oh. Oh... oh, uh, thanks. I'll be right down.

And, Ms. Blodgett, would you give him a message from me?

Tell him it's three o'clock in the morning!

Hello? What?

0h!

Oh. Yes, yes. I'll be there.

Oh, thank you.

- Danny? - Huh?

- Danny. - Huh? Huh? Oh!

- Oh! - Danny, what do you think?

I'm gonna take a test tomorrow

and Norman Maine's helping me do it.

Um, I'm taking one, too.

Garbo's assisting me.

- 0h.

Oh. Hm, hm...

Haney: Move that gobo in!

- Put a silk on that rod. - No, the 80.

Is this light too hot for you, Haley?

Haley: Okay, but cut down on the back light.

Put a double on that 90!

Haley: Bring it down a little.

That's it.

Haley: Pull down on that 150.

- We're ready to take 'em. - Okay.

Haley: Yeah, pull down on that 150.

Okay.

Haley: Bring me an apple-box.

Listen, gentlemen, please, if you don't mind.

This is... this is just a test.

- Ready, Mr. Burke. - All ready, Mr. Burke.

- Ready, Mr. Burke. - Ready now, Mr. Burke.

- All ready, Mr. Burke. - Ready now, Mr. Burke.

All ready, Mr. Burke.

We're ready, Mr. Burke.

Alright. Let's take it.

Quiet!

- Quiet. - Quiet!

- Quiet! - Quiet!

- Quiet! - Quiet!

You're ready, Norman?

You're ready, miss, uh, miss what's-your-name?

He'll soon know your name, Esther.

The whole world's going to know it.

But I'm so scared. Maybe I better not try it today.

Oh, oh. Come on, now don't be foolish.

They all had to go through this.

Harlow, lombard, Myrna loy.

And now, Esther blodgett.

- Alright. I'm ready. - Ah.

This is a take. Roll 'em.

- Quiet. - Take.

I may as well tell you that my whole organization thinks

I've gone a little nuts to sign you.

Well, maybe they're right. I've been nuts before.

Oliver: You see, all the experts seem to think

that your type is a little mild for present day taste.

But I rather believe that tastes change like eyebrows

and I think that also like eyebrows

tastes are going back to the natural.

You look like a nice girl.

I think I'm going to like you.

That's not important.

I think the public will like you. That is important.

Yeah. Well, yes.

I see what you mean. I... I mean, I know it is.

Well, you don't think it's going to be easy.

Nothing you really want is ever given away free.

You have to pay for it. And, usually, with your heart.

Someone else told me that once.

But you still have to work it out for yourself.

Oh, well, all this is just a long way of saying

I'm glad you're with us and good luck to you.

And now I'm going to turn you over

to our demon press agent, Libby.

Don't let him frighten you. He has a heart of gold.

Only harder.

And for the love of Pete

learn to close your mouth and keep it closed.

Even in your love scenes.

Are you a Russian?

No, I was born in Fillmore, north Dakota.

Oh, no.

First saw light of day

in a mountain cabin, a trapper's hut

high up in the rockies.

Go on.

Well, I... I always wanted to be an actress.

Dreamed of footlights as lonely kitty.

Are you sure there's no Russian in your family?

- Positive. - That's a shame.

Well, what does your father do?

- He's a farmer. - Nah.

Social registered father.

Fed up with hypocrisies of four hundred

sought wilderness for consolation.

There amidst the mountain flowers

he raised another blossom.

His lovely little daughter...

What's your name?

Esther Victoria blodgett.

Greatly appreciating your attention in this matter.

- Very truly... - Do you know what her name is?

Esther Victoria blodgett.

Hey, we'll have to do something about that right away.

Esther Victoria blodgett.

Well, that blodgett's definitely out.

Let's see, uh, Esther Victoria.

Victoria. Vicki. How about Vicki?

Oh, I think that's terribly cute.

- Let's see. Vicki. Vicki what? - Vicki Vicki.

Pronounced Vicki Vicki.

See Esther, bester, cester, dester, fester.

Oh, that's very pretty.

Gester, hester, dester, Lester. Vicki Lester.

- Oh, I like that. - Say it.

- Vicki Lester. - Say it again.

- Vicki Lester. - Say it again.

- Vicki Lester. - Say it.

- Vicki Lester! - Say Vicki Lester.

- Vicki Lester. - Vicki Lester.

- Vicki Lester. - Vicki Lester.

Vicki Lester.

"Oliver niles studio discovers new starlet

"a cinderella of the rockies.

"Her name is Vicki Lester.

"Those who had peeked tell me she couldn't be more divine.

"The face of an angel, and such natural talents.

"Her voice is a symphony.

Her very walk, they tell me, is enough to drive men mad."

Not that way.

Get the lead out of your feet. Lift 'em up.

That's better. It's terrible, but it's better.

"The quality of mercy is not strained.

It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven."

Cease. Through the mouth, my child, through the mouth.

The nose is for smelling roses.

Proceed.

Does she have to look surprised all the time?

Anyway, it's just a rough sketch.

Pretty small mouth, isn't it?

Oh, well.

- Give her that Crawford smear. - Hm.

This will give her that Dietrich mwah.

We're on the wrong track. She still looks surprised.

Listen, dress people, we're shooting on the set this morning

not in the commissary! Now come on, snap into it!

Acme trucking company.

No. Uh, Mr. Smith is not in.

Acme trucking company.

Ah, no. Uh, Mr. Smith is not in.

Good morning. What can I bring you, Mr. Maine?

That just shows how long you've been here.

Mabel, bless you.

How soon are you and I going to be married, huh?

I don't know. You'll have to ask my mother.

Esther: Acme trucking company.

Ah, no. Uh, Mr. Smith is not in.

Acme trucking company.

No. Uh, Mr. Smith is not in.

Acme? No, Smith ain't in.

Acme trucking company.

I'd like to speak to Mr. Smith, please.

Mr. Smith is not...

Oh, Norman.

What's all this between you and Smith?

I've got a part. It's only one line, but it's in the picture.

So it's ambition that made you break

that date with me last night?

Well, I... I had to be here so early this morning...

Ah, so did I.

I had to stay up all night to make it.

You've started your picture, haven't you?

No. No, we're still in the testing stage.

We can't seem to get the right girl for the lead.

Gee, you'd think with all the girls there are that...

Yeah, I know, but this one's got to be different.

She's got to be little and cute and sweet.

Intelligent...

- Well, blow me down. - What?

- Well, close my tired old eyes. - Well, w... what is it?

Hold everything, come on. Come on.

Well, you've been through the whole casting directory.

I'll work day and night, Mr. Niles.

And I'll work with her, Oliver.

And I can be mean or nasty

or anything you want, Mr. Niles.

If she clicks, Oliver, you've got a star overnight.

Okay.

Wait till you hear them at the end of the picture.

- Do you think we were noticed? - By no one.

They're much too busy playing at croquet.

I've loved you all my life.

But we only met two days ago.

That's when my life began.

Ain't she cute? You know, I think she's the same type I am.

- Don't you? - I think she's sweet.

Well, it's Vicki Lester's picture, alright.

I think she was much better than he was.

These producers are so horribly dumb.

They won't know how good she is.

Well, maybe it's because she's a good girl.

Oh, Maine's not so bad,

but it's Vicki Lester they will go to see.

I think she's the most precious little thing I've ever seen.

- Mm-hmm! - She's a knockout, Libby.

You might mention that when you write your review.

That Lester kid's a gold mine.

- Didn't you like Norman Maine? - Was he in it?

Libby, I'm afraid we have another hit.

It's in the bag. Neatly tied up with beautiful pink ribbons.

Say, where are Norman and Vicki?

I don't know. I thought you had 'em.

I wish they'd come. We're having a party at the trocadero.

Well, isn't it thrilling, running away from people?

- Norman, it's so exciting. So... - So new, huh?

A star is born. Come on, run.

It's wonderful, isn't it? A crazy quilt.

Norman: Well, uh, it's a carpet that's spread for you.

It's all yours from now on, you know?

Come, Esther, you're a success.

You have everything in the world you want.

I hope it'll make you happy.

- Hasn't it you? - Mnm-mnm.

Then that was one thing I never had.

Lots of times I told myself I'd found it,

but I always knew I was lying.

Still I, I never stopped looking for it.

Maybe it'll come.

Well, I think it has come, Esther.

I only wish it weren't too late.

Oh, but it's not too late.

Oh, you can't throw away your life

the way I've thrown away mine

and... have anything left that's good enough.

- You can.

Norman, you can.

You mustn't tell me that, Esther.

I'm so afraid that I'll believe it.

Get up, Garcia. Shoot your right.

- Swell, isn't this? - Lovely.

You watch Garcia again.

Can't you hear me, Garcia? Shoot your right!

He got him! Garcia got him!

- Garcia got him! - He did, didn't he?

Yeah, but he'll be up, though.

- You like it? - Sure, I do.

- You like me? - Sure, I do.

Boom! That reminds me. Will you marry me?

- No, thank you. - You...

Come on, Garcia. Finish him! Why won't you marry me?

- 'Cause you're not dependable... - Hey, shoot your right!

- Throw away your money... - Break him up in there.

- Break him up. - And you drink so much.

- Well, suppose I quit drinking? - Yes.

Come on, Garcia, shoot the right in there, the right!

- Suppose I save my money? - Yes.

There he goes! Let him have it!

Suppose I became absolutely dependable on all occasions?

Yes.

Hey, Garcia, he got him! He's got him.

He certainly did.

Gee, that was a beautiful fight.

- Norman. - What dear?

Would you do all that for me if I said I'd marry you?

No, certainly not. I was just supposing.

We're going to be married.

Guess I didn't read that line right. I'll try it again.

- We are going to be married. - Both of us.

Yeah, to each other.

- What do you think of that? - W... when? Where?

Well, we, uh, thought we'd elope in the conventional manner.

What's the matter?

He's trying to decide whether it's good for the studio.

- Is it? - It is.

And bless you, my children. When's it going to happen?

Oh, we thought we'd just sneak out sometime.

We're not telling anyone but you.

Listen to this.

"The screen's ideal romance

"blossomed into breathtaking reality today

"when Vicki Lester and Norman Maine

"america's dream lovers

slipped quietly through the portals of holy matrimony."

- How does it sound? - Horrible.

But you see, we are going to elope.

Sure, you are.

It'll be the biggest elopement this town ever saw.

We'll get a tie-up with the army

have you escorted all the way down to yuma

by 20 of their new bombing planes.

- Is he going with us? - No.

Don't you think we can work this thing out better alone?

No sense in bothering the happy couple with all the details.

I'll see to it that you get a carbon copy of the whole layout.

I can hardly wait.

I'm, uh, sorry, we didn't realize that we were in the way.

While you're settling the details

you don't mind if I take this woman out and buy her a ring?

Sure, go ahead, we want everything legal.

That's a charming match.

A nice girl like Vicki and public nuisance number-one.

Now wait a minute, Libby. Norman's alright.

And if you'll pardon my pointing

Vicki's business is her own.

It doesn't require any comments.

I wasn't making any comments.

I just said it was a rotten shame.

Yeah, go ahead and plan the elopement.

Oh, that elopement stuff is out.

You can't get any scope in that.

We're gonna have a wedding. Where'll we have it?

Customary place, I believe, is a church.

Nah, it's been done.

This has got to be something big.

The beach. I can visualize it.

The bridesmaids in bathing suits

20,000 Santa Monica school children

spelling out the word love.

It's a novelty, but is it big enough.

Why not the city hall?

A police escort of every motorcycle cop in town.

Sirens screaming, confetti pouring out of buildings

like the Lindbergh reception in New York.

Only on a big scale.

What's the matter? Isn't it big enough?

Justice of the peace: "And now, if any man can show just cause

"why these two may not be lawfully joined together

"let him now speak or else hereafter

"forever hold his peace.

"Do you, Alfred henkel

"take this woman as your lawful wedded wife?

"Will you love, comfort, honor

"and keep her in sickness and health

as long as you both shall live?"

- I will. - "Do you..."

I beg your pardon.

"Do you, uh, Esther blodgett

"take this man as your lawful wedded husband?

"Will you obey, serve, love, honor

"and keep him in sickness and health

aslong as you both shall live?"

- I will. - Place the ring on her finger.

- Mm. - Ah, hurry please.

Alright.

"Now, by virtues of the power invested in me

"as justice of the peace of San bado township

"county of Los Angeles

I pronounce you man and wife."

Quiet!

And now I must exercise my prerogative of office.

I hope you will be very happy, Mrs. Henkel.

- Thank you. - Thank you, sir.

- Oh, Danny. - Thank you very much.

Now if you'll please sign the license.

Oh, oh, yeah.

You know, uh, Mrs. Henkel, I can't help but believe

I've seen you somewhere before.

Oh, really?

Well, uh, I believe this is the first time

I've ever been in San bado.

You know, your face is familiar, too...

Really? There you are, sir. Thank you very much.

- Oh, thank you, sir... - Here's your receipt.

- Good... goodbye. - Goodbye.

- See you. See you again. - Yes, goodbye.

No, I'm not coming back, see. No.

Hey, I think you got by with it.

But it was close, that jp was just beginning

to remember where he'd seen us.

Well, anyway, we got away from Libby.

Hello, toots.

If you will be kind enough

to glance between my shoulder blades

Mr. and Mrs. Henkel

you will find there a knife buried to the hilt.

On the handle are your initials.

Lovely to have seen you, Libby.

- Hold him, hold him, Danny. - Hey, wait.

There go a couple of rats I raised for mice.

Well, they got a right to get married, haven't they?

They haven't got any right to double-cross the public.

And they haven't done it yet.

"People versus porky Washington

who is charged with violating section 600..."

Young man, you're in contempt of court.

Operator, uh, get me "the Los Angeles tribune."

I have a good mind to put you under arrest.

Wait until I make this call. You wait, too.

"Tribune?" give me the city desk.

Johnny, this is Matt Libby. I got a flash for ya.

Norman Maine and Vicki Lester were married

at 2:30 this afternoon.

Vicki Lester? Court recess.

J“ oh give me a horse a great big horse I

j“ a great big buckaroo and let me wahoo j”

j“ wahoo wahoo j'j'

Wahoo!

Hey, wahoo?

I don't, uh, want to sound immodest,

but I think I've stripped a gear.

Well, sit down, won't you, and let's get acquainted.

We'll probably be seeing quite a bit of each other from now on.

Well, might just as well break the ice now as later.

Mm. Now we're old friends.

Say, have I, have I got time for a shower before dinner?

Plenty, if you can find the shower.

I never can remember where that thing is.

Does it, uh, pull out or slide under?

Here, I think I can find it. Nope, it's the linen closet.

- Here it is. - Nice work.

Oh, half the time, those things, they're just luck.

Now I'll see if I can disinfect this steak.

Norman: Hey, Esther, uh, there's no soap here.

- Here. - Thank you.

- Oh, and, Esther? - Yes, dear?

Norman: I'll... I'll need a washcloth here.

- Oh. - How you fixed for cigarettes?

Honey, you know I never smoke underwater.

Hey, what, what do I do to make this thing work?

Pull that gadget at the top and pray for rain.

Well, I, I can't reach it.

I can't, I can't get my hands up there.

You've gone in there with your arms down

you'll never get your bath.

Unless you're a contortionist.

Yeah, well, I... I'm not a contortionist.

And don't throw that up to me now.

Mm, y... you knew it when you married me.

Can you close this door, please?

Thank you.

Norman! Norman, here comes a car.

You... you gotta... huh?

- Here, quick. - Quick what?

Quick, go out and stop them and ask for help.

Oh, I'll... I'll... I'll catch cold.

- Oh, you'll get warm again. - Yeah, I don't...

Oh, do you think they'll recognize me...

Not if you keep your face down. Go on.

There may not be another car for weeks.

Alright.

- Uh, uh... - Howdy, partner.

- Howdy. Uh... - Stuck?

Yeah. How'd you guess it?

- Ah, can you get us some help? - Ah...

Well, I reckon not, you know?

It's a long way to town, we're pretty busy down at the place.

Well, I got to get out of here.

I... I've got my wife with me and...

- Didn't she like the country? - No, no.

And then we're short of food.

Well, there's a lot of game in them woods.

Yeah, well, my wife can't shoot.

Well, you're sure up against it.

Sorry, I can't do anything for you.

Well, uh, wait, listen, I... I'll be frank with you.

- I'm Norman Maine. - Who?

- Norman Maine. - Well, my name is Jeff baker.

Glad to have met you. Well, so long.

Hey, wait, a, wait a minute. Listen, you don't...

So you're Norman Maine.

I got my prestige to look out for.

I'm supposed to be the best publicity man in the racket

and they laugh themselves sick

when I even try to get a decent mention of Maine.

Yes, I know how sensitive you are, Libby

and I don't like to see your feelings hurt.

Thanks, boss. Now, Vicki.

There's a dish for free space.

But if Maine swam across the pacific

the papers would keep it a secret.

Well... the exhibitors don't like him

the critics don't like him, the public don't like him

and I don't like him. Who likes him?

Oh, but, darling, this is almost too much of a surprise.

And there I was, in my touching innocence

thinking we were going to live at the beach house.

Oh, we'll still keep the place at Malibu.

But this is special, this is our castle

which used to be in the air, you know?

Where we never use any ugly words

like contracts and pictures and careers.

When we come in those gates

we'll check the studio outside.

Come on, I got another little surprise for you.

Oh, Norman, it's lovely.

So are you, lovely.

The whole world's lovely.

Hey, hold it!

That's it.

Caption. Their honeymoon never ends.

Alright, let's get some pictures.

Now, if the bride will sit here

and the groom will stand behind her

we'll have something unique.

Now, let's go after something different.

You sit down and she'll stand up.

- Pretty radical, isn't it? - Yeah, but in a nice way.

Libby: Okay, Otto, fire.

Caption. Their honeymoon begins anew.

Ah, the producer.

Caption. Their honeymoon ceases abruptly.

Hello, Oliver, glad to see you.

- Norman, I'm glad you're back. - Thank you.

Vicki, how well you're looking.

Hello, Oliver.

- Am I interrupting? - Yes, thank you.

Libby: Just want a couple of more pictures.

That's enough of both of them.

What they're asking for is exclusives of Ms. Lester.

- Alone. - Oh, I see.

Well, come on, Oliver, let you and me get exclusive.

See you later, Vicki.

Oh, don't worry, Otto, my camera-smashing days are over.

Yeah, they ain't your only days that are over.

Oh, hold that, Ms. Lester.

Gorgeous.

Well, Oliver...

- How's the dividend situation? - Very pleasant.

I think we'll show two million on our next quarter.

Oh-ho, yeah. Smart move of mine to sell my stock, eh?

Ah, well, when you need money, you need it.

Well, some people save up for just such an event.

You know, there's bound to be a rainy day occasionally.

Yeah, but as a citizen of California

I've always refused to admit that.

Yes, I know, but still it does rain.

Well, anyway, you can thank me

for some of those dividends of yours.

Oliver: Mm-hmm.

- Well, can't you? - Oh, sure, sure.

That was a little too quick, Oliver. What's the matter?

"The enchanted hour" was a smash hit, wasn't it?

Oliver: Well, it made Vicki a star overnight.

Well, as it should have. What about me?

Oh, let's talk about business at the office, Norman.

Beautiful pool you have here. Beautiful...

Oh, no, let's talk about it here. Didn't they like me?

Well, maybe the part wasn't just right.

That was the best part of the year.

Look, Oliver.

Do you think I'm slipping?

- Can you take it? - Yeah, go ahead.

The tense is wrong.

You're not slipping. You've slipped.

Well, my... my fan mail is still big.

Norman, Norman, fans will write to anybody for a photograph.

It only costs three cents for a stamp

and that makes photographs cheaper than wallpaper.

But every 25 cents they pay for a theater ticket

buys them the right to be a critic.

And your last few performances, Norman

have not pleased your critics.

You remember I'd told you, I'd, uh

be ready for the curtains when the time came?

Here it is.

Let's call off the contract, no hard feelings.

We're not quitting, either of us.

There's no explaining these things.

We've all seen how the public turns.

Maybe we can turn them back.

I've got a swell script lined up for you.

About, about Esther, uh...

If you think that I'm going to get in her way...

Well, as a matter of fact, as it happens

there's no part in this story for her.

I'd more or less planned to star her

in a picture of her own

with, uh, with that young Pemberton opposite her.

He's coming along nicely.

Good for young Pemberton.

Alright, Oliver, we'll make a try at it.

Let's hope it's not too late.

No argument. I'll buy those.

"The screen's most finished actor."

I'll say he's finished.

He keeps 'em away in droves.

Hello?

No. No, Ms. Lester isn't home as yet.

No, I'm not the Butler.

Well, I can take a message just as well as he can, honest.

Oh, is that you, Norman? Swell.

Listen, Norman, this is Artie carver.

Hiya, kid. Swell.

Say, I hear you're through with Oliver niles.

- Is that on the level? - Oh, please, Artie.

I'm not news anymore. Forget it.

Say, what kind of a settlement did you make on your contract?

Give me a figure so I can do a story on it.

There was no money involved.

- We just called it quits. - Okay, okay.

I'll fill in my own figure.

Say, by the way, I've been trying

to get an interview with Vicki for two weeks

but she's always busy.

How about you giving an old pal a break

by speaking to her for me?

- Sure, I'll ask her. - Swell.

So long. Heh-heh.

I didn't mean to be late, darling, but Casey wanted me...

It's alright. You're here now.

- What's new today? - Nothing.

I haven't been out of the house.

- Let's go somewhere tonight. - Oh, no.

You're tired, we'll stay in.

I'm not tired, really.

Oh, yes, you are.

You've got a hard day ahead of you.

Anyway, I see so little of you, I'd like to have you to myself.

Oh, but it's the servant's night out.

- We haven't... - Yes, we have.

I fixed a little snack with my own Lily-white hands.

I, uh, I'm learning to cook in my spare time.

Then I think I'll marry you.

Oh, I get it.

You want to make an honest cook of me, hm?

Comes in on wheels in this joint.

Here you are. How does it look?

- Mm, wonderful! - Huh?

- That's what I thought. - Mm.

Now, then, don't be formal, just pitch in.

Here you are.

Uh, I... I'm afraid my mouth's not quite big enough.

I'll, uh, I'll measure it next time

and make them to size.

A little hard to lift, too.

Matter of fact, I think I'll take those measurements

right now.

And that's what I wait for... all day.

That's why I rush home without even changing my costume.

Ah, right, we're forgetting that we're hungry.

- Would you like a sandwich? - Thank you.

I still have a little work on this one.

Now...

Oh, thank you.

Norman, will you unhook my dress? I can't breathe.

Norman: Mm-hmm.

You know, all the time, I thought it was the kiss

that made you breathless.

- A lot of hooks, huh? - Uh-huh.

Why don't you have a zipper?

Mm, that's a good idea.

- Feel better? - Oh, yes.

Don't look now, but, uh...

I think that guy on your left is in love with you.

I hope so.

It's the doorbell.

Is it? Maybe they'll go away.

No, no, they never do at a time like this, you know?

Just a minute, dear. I'll be right back.

- Does Vicki Lester live here? - Yes.

I got a package for her.

- I'll sign for it. - Well, who are you?

- I'm her husband. - Oh, sure.

Sign right here, Mr. Lester.

It's a package for you.

Oh, by the way, I forgot to tell you, uh...

They want you for a benefit

at shrine auditorium next Wednesday night.

I told them I'd ask you. And, uh...

Oh, darling, uh, I don't want to hear about that now.

Well, you better wait till I finish

before I forget them all.

Ah, the academy dinner secretary phoned.

She wants to know if you want a table reserved for you.

Oh, yes, Artie carver called

and asked if I'd use my influence with you

to get him an interview.

I told him I'd try.

- Ah, that was all, I think. - Oh, Norman.

Let's don't talk about those things now.

Ah, we're forgetting the wonderful food you prepared.

Well, I'm, I'm not very hungry now.

I think I'll, uh, I'll fix me a little drink, hmm?

But, Norman...

Oh, I wish Norman would come.

Oh, stop worrying, and think how nice

that statue is going to look on your mantelpiece.

Do you suppose anything's happened to him?

But, of course not, he's just been held up in traffic.

You think about that statuette.

Announcer: And now we arrive at the climax of the annual dinner

of the academy of motion picture, arts and sciences.

The highest award within our power to bestow.

We have already applauded with our hearts as well as our hands

while awards have been given to those gentlemen

who, during the past year, have rendered distinguished service

to the motion picture industry.

We now pay honor to the ladies

or rather to one lady.

We offer to her the academy award

for the finest performance of the past year.

She has already had the world's acclaim

but this is the tribute of our fellow workers

the men and women of this industry.

It is not only my pleasure but my privilege

to present this award to the actress who created

the unforgettable Anna

in "dream without end."

Ms. Vicki Lester!

Yes, go on.

What more can we say, Ms. Lester?

This says it all for us.

Thank you.

Ladies and gentlemen

when something like this happens to you

and you try to tell how you feel about it

you find that out of all the words in the world

there are only two that really mean anything.

Thank you.

All I can do is to say them to you from my heart.

All I can do is to keep on saying them...

- Hurray! That's fine! - Oh, Mr. Maine. Please.

That's a pretty speech, my dear, very pretty.

You said the right thing.

I want to be the very first one to congratulate you

on that, on that valuable little piece of bric-a-brac.

Now I want to make a speech.

Gentlemen of the academy and fellow suckers...

I got one of those once for a best performance.

They don't mean a thing, people get them every year.

What I want is a special award. Something nobody else can get.

I want a statue for the worst performance of the year.

In fact, I want three statues

for the three worst performances of the year

because I've earned them.

And every single one of you that saw

those last masterpieces of mine knows that I've earned them.

Libby, start the music.

What I'm here to find out is do I get 'em or do I get 'em?

Now, answer, yes or no?

Norman, darling, let's go and sit down.

Come on, Norman, sit with us.

- Glad to see you, Norman. - Hello, Norman.

Mm-hmm.

Oliver: Well, Norman, how are you?

Hi, Oliver.

My dear, do let me congratulate you.

You must be terribly proud and happy tonight.

Thank you.

Somebody give me a drink.

Oliver, nice of you to come to my dressing room.

- Vicki, how are you? - I've missed you.

Everyone's missed you. Have a nice trip?

Well, the three-months tour of the theater circuits

scarcely comes under the head of pleasure.

But the way they're screaming for your pictures

all over the country...

Ms. Lester, if I may talk shop, you are a knock-out.

Thank you. It's good to hear that.

You've been crying.

A little.

How's Norman?

Well, he's trying awfully hard, Oliver.

Letting Norman leave this studio

was the hardest thing I ever did.

There was nothing else I could do.

I know.

Has he been...

Is he alright?

He's gone to a sanitarium.

He really wants to stop drinking.

And I think he could, only...

Well, perhaps if he could start working again.

It would be some encouragement.

Oliver, could you... Could you do that?

- Yes. - Oh, thank you.

But he mustn't ever know I told you.

He won't know, and you mustn't worry.

I want you to keep up your good work in this picture.

I'll try, Oliver.

That's the one thing I can do for you.

If you'll just sit here, Mr. Niles

I'll have Mr. Maine brought down.

Thank you.

"Brought down."

Hello, Oliver!

Welcome to Liberty hall.

- Hello, Norman. - Well...

No, no, Mr. Niles isn't slipping me

a case of scotch, cuddles. This is just a handshake.

This is cuddles, Oliver, my social secretary.

We... we go everywhere together.

- How are you feeling, Norman? - Fine.

Getting along remarkably well, cuddles tells me.

He says you oughta see some of the boys.

Let's sit down.

Cuddles, we, we really don't need you here.

Touching, isn't it?

Can't bear to have me out of his sight.

Are you comfortable here, Norman?

Comfortable? It's positively luxurious.

They... they even have iron bars in the windows

to keep out the draft.

How much longer are you going to be here?

Oh, well, I'm really cured now.

I'm just... staying on for an extra week or two

to get in good shape, you know?

After all, there's no, no particular hurry

to return to the cameras.

That's what I wanted to talk to you about.

I've got a script with a fine part for you in it.

Hey, Oliver, that's great.

That's great.

Who, uh, who plays opposite me?

Well, it is not exactly the lead.

Young Pemberton's doing that.

But I tell you frankly, I consider your part

better than the lead.

Oh, I see.

Ah, better than... than the lead?

Well, of course, it isn't terribly long

but it's one of those parts that makes an impression on you.

They'll be thinking about you all through the picture.

Mm-hmm.

Well, the thing is, Oliver

I'm, uh, pretty well set at another studio

and I'm not at Liberty at the moment

to tell you which one.

You know yourself how those things are.

- Of course. - But it... it's a big picture.

It's one of the biggest of the year.

And the part...

Every actor in Hollywood would give his teeth to play.

Well, that's fine, Norman.

Naturally, that would tie you up for a while

but we won't get to this picture for some time

and perhaps, if you want to consider it for later on...

Well, I'll tell you, Oliver, you'd better not count on me.

See, uh, I've got several pictures lined up after this one

then they're talking to me about england, and...

You know, th... they're doing some

very interesting things over there, you know?

- Mm-hmm. - Hey.

What is it, cuddles? Speak right out. We all love you.

- Your dinner. - Oh, yes!

Yeah, we dine at 5:30 here. Makes the nights longer.

Well... goodbye, Norman.

I'm glad to see you're getting along so well.

Be out in no time.

I'll have to introduce myself all over to a lot of people.

They won't know me when I'm not drinking.

- Goodbye. - Goodbye, Norman.

- Thanks for dropping in. - That's fine.

Now...

Well, cuddles...

Alone at last, eh?

Hello, Bert, Sam. How are you, Marian?

- Oh, uh, hello. - Hello.

Hello, normi.

Glad to see you.

How I hate to run into these has-beens.

- They give me the creeps. - Me, too.

He was good while he had it

and he had it quite a while.

- Hello. - Hello, Mr. Maine.

I haven't seen you in a long time.

Oh, I've been rusting.

Ginger ale, please.

Ginger ale and what?

Ginger ale and, and ginger ale.

- A new leaf? - A whole new book.

Thank you.

Scotch, straight.

Hello, Libby.

Why, it's Mr. America of yesteryear.

Do they let you wander about now without a keeper?

Oh, sure. I'm... i'm... I'm a trustee now.

Didn't expect to find you at Santa Anita.

What do they do with the actors while, while you're away?

Oh, they cut 'em into slices and fry 'em with eggs.

I suppose you'll be here all the time

now that you've retired

from the hurly-burly of the silver screen.

Well, I'm living down at Malibu now.

Pretty lonesome with... Esther away working all day.

Oh, I wouldn't squawk about that if I were you.

It's nice to have somebody in the family making a living.

Oh, now, wait a minute, Libby.

I don't want to forget that we're friends.

Friends, my eye! Say, listen...

I got you out ofjams because I had to.

It was my job, not because I was your friend.

I don't like you and I never have liked you.

Nothing made me happier

than to see all those cute little pranks of yours

finally catch up with you

and land you on your celebrated face.

Pretty work, Libby.

Always wait till they're down, then kick 'em.

I don't feel sorry for you.

You fixed yourself nice and comfortable.

You can live off your wife now.

She'll buy your drinks and put up with you

even though nobody else will.

Marian: Oh! Burt, no!

Well, he's drunk again. Come on, punk.

Hey, wait a minute. Wait a minute! I...

Come on, outside for you, wise guy...

- I'm Norman Maine. - Well, that's not my fault.

Oh, don't bother to toss him out. He's harmless.

Alright, Mr. Libby, if you say so.

Sure, let him go. What can he do?

He can't fight any better than he can act.

- It's Norman Maine. - Oh, he's drunk again.

Man 3: Why he's been drunk for years.

Give me a scotch. Double.

Leave the bottle here.

Vicki, you'll be ill.

Why don't you try to get a little sleep?

But he's been gone four days. Four days and not a word.

Oliver, I can't. I just can't.

Hello?

No, this is Oliver niles speaking.

Where?

Thank you.

- What is it? - Nothing, nothing.

- Oliver, tell me. - He's in the night court.

He's been arrested on a drunk charge.

Now, he's alright, he isn't hurt. I'm going right now.

- I'll get him out. - I'm going with you.

Vicki, it isn't any place for you

and if it gets in the papers...

What do I care about the papers?

I'm going with you.

Division 30 municipal court

county Los Angeles, now in session.

The honorable George j. Parris presiding.

Be seated, please.

Were you able to do anything?

Judge wouldn't even see me.

Ready, your honor.

I want to advise you that you're entitled

to be represented by a counsel

to be confronted by the witnesses

that might testify against you

to compel witnesses to attend on your behalf

to a public and speedy trial by the court or by a jury

and the right to be admitted to bail.

Call the first five.

Bailiff: Gregory, rails, Maine, Rodriguez, jutts.

Come on, boys. Get in there.

Go ahead. Move along.

- William Gregory. - Yeah, yeah. Yes, yes.

"Plain drunk, picked up a tiff in town, asleep in the gutter.

Fourteen similar offenses in the past six months."

Still at it, Gregory. How do you plead?

- I... I don't feel so good. - I didn't ask you how you feel.

- I asked you how you plead? - Guilty, I guess.

Judge parris: When did you get out the last time?

Uh, just, just before Christmas.

Well, I'm sorry you'll have to miss new years.

You'll be out in time for Washington's birthday.

Sixty days.

Milton rails!

County clerk: "A plain drunk. Picked up on Brooklyn Avenue.

Given treatment at receiving hospital then re-moved to jail.

How old are you, rails?

Uh, seventeen, sir.

Judge parris: Did you take a good look at those men

in the cell with you last night?

Yes, sir.

Judge parris: And have you taken a good look

at yourself this morning?

Oh, no, sir.

I suggest that you do.

Five dollars and two days.

Sentence suspended.

Oh, judge, I...

"Alfred hinkel"

more commonly known as Norman Maine.

County clerk: Uh, drunk and disorderly.

Crashed car into tree at sunset and coronado.

Evidently been drinking for days.

Resisted arrest and injured one of the arresting officers.

How do you plead?

Guilty.

You're Norman Maine the actor, aren't you?

You've come pretty low, haven't you?

There isn't a man here who's had the advantages you've had.

Look what you've done with them.

You're nothing but an irresponsible drunk

driving about the streets with the power to inflict death

or injury on innocent people.

I think we better deny you that power for a while.

Ninety days in the city jail.

Please, wait.

I'm his wife.

Yes, I recognize you, miss Lester.

Please, judge.

I promise you this won't happen again.

I'll be responsible for him.

If you just won't send him there.

You realize that this man when drunk

is obviously a menace to public safety?

And do you realize, too, miss Lester

the responsibility you'll be assuming

to this court and to the commonwealth?

I do.

Sentence suspended.

Prisoner remanded to custody of wife.

Thank you.

You can get him at the jail entrance, madam.

Judge parris: Jose Rodriguez!

County clerk: Plain drunk. Picked up at first and main.

Second offence.

Judge parris: How do you plead?

Uh, I think I'm guilty, your honor.

Judge parris: Sixty days.

Honey, I'm, I'm so tired...

- Hold it, Mr. Maine! A picture! - Oh, no, please.

What about a statement for the press?

No, no. Please.

He's still asleep. He's been asleep all day.

Oliver: It's the best thing for him.

It's awful to see this happen to someone you love.

And know in your heart...

That it can't get any better.

I only know that all I can do now is stay with him

and try to help him.

Oliver: So will I.

And between us, we'll take care of him.

Vicki: You're very fond of him, aren't you, Oliver?

Oliver: Well, I'm very fond of both of you.

Then I know you'll understand what I have to tell you.

And after what happened last night

I think you already know what it is.

I can't do any more pictures.

I'm going away for good with Norman.

Oliver: You can't do that, Vicki.

You're at the very peak of your success

and you've worked so hard to achieve it.

Vicki: That's what's been worrying me.

And I've thought it all out.

Maybe if I hadn't been away from him so much...

Last night and what went before

it wouldn't have happened.

Oh, I know it's too late to think about that now

but... it may not be too late to go away with him

and start over somewhere.

Oliver: It's your life you're giving up, Vicki.

Vicki: So I can try to give Norman back his.

Can you honestly tell me I'm wrong to do it?

No, Vicki, I can't honestly tell you that.

Then there'll be no more... Vicki Lester.

Come on, walk till the door with me.

Goodbye, Vicki Lester.

You were a grand girl.

Good luck, Mrs. Norman Maine.

Goodbye, Oliver.

Hey, darling.

This is Maine coming in to apologize again.

I'm s... sorry, dear, but... it isn't you.

Well, what other troubles have you got?

None.

I was just playing a scene with myself.

Now, look, I'm just coming out of the jitters

and you're just going into them.

This is a swell household.

Isn't it?

I'll tell you what we'll do.

I'll promise to brace up, if you'll go on the wagon.

I guess I had been drinking too much.

You know what I'm gonna do?

I'm going to be an athlete.

You mean, with great big muscles and everything?

Well, roughly speaking.

Gonna join the ymca?

Nah, it costs too much.

I'm going wading out in our front yard.

- Now? - Sure.

Would you like me to go with you?

Sure, if you'd like to.

Normi, I don't think I will.

It might spoil this beautiful, natural wave.

Yeah, I guess that's right.

Hey, darling, look, uh,

could you have a hot toddy ready, uh...

I mean, some hot soup for me when I come back?

- Some hot soup? - Yeah.

A... and I'll make some of those nice sandwiches.

Norman, do you have to?

So long, darling.

Vicki: Now, don't stay in too long.

You mind if I take just one more look?

First drink of water he had in 20 years.

And then he had to get it by accident.

Pardon.

How do you wire a congratulations

to the pacific ocean?

- There she is now! - Oh, you can't see her face!

Woman 1: Hello, Vicki.

Get away, can't you?

Come on, Vicki, let's see your face.

Vicki, will you sign my book for me?

Write "Mrs. Norman Maine."

Oliver: Don't you care, Vicki, you'll get over it.

Stand back, can't you?

Don't you cry, dearie. He wasn't so much.

Do you mind if I take just...

One more look?

Here are the paychecks for the servants, graves.

You'll find a very nice bonus in each one.

Miss Lester asked me to thank you

for your kindness and service.

If there's anything I can do for the little lady

I shall be glad to do it.

She would appreciate your attending

to the closing of the Beverly Hills house.

Put down those trunks!

Put it down, I say!

Well, where is she?

Woman 2: I... in the bedroom. Who are you?

Oh, I'm her grandmother.

Get out of the way.

Esther.

- Granny! - Esther!

Granny, darling.

Oh, I'm so glad to see you.

What made you come?

Oh, I know when I'm needed.

Now, get out of here! Go on, get out of here, all of you!

I want to talk to my granddaughter alone.

I came just as quickly as I could.

But I'm going home. I sent you a wire yesterday.

Sit down.

Is it true that you're going to quit the movies?

I never want to hear of them again.

What are you running away from, little girl?

I'm not running away.

It's just that I can't go on. My heart isn't in it any more.

Once I'd told you, "if you get what you want

you have to give your heart in exchange."

And you said you were willing.

Remember?

I remember.

Well, it seems to me that you got

more than you bargained for.

More fame, more success, even more personal happiness.

Maybe more unhappiness.

But you did make a bargain.

And now you're whining over it.

I don't think I'd feel so very proud of myself

if I were you, Esther.

I'm not, granny.

My mind's made up.

Well, then, I'm sorry I gave you the money

to come out here. It's just waste...

Oh, but, granny.

I was proud of you, Esther.

I was proud to be the grandmother of Vicki Lester.

It gave me something to live for.

Now, I haven't anything.

I know.

Oh, I want to be strong,

but I... I can't go on. I can't.

You must.

Tragedy is a test of courage.

If you can meet it bravely

it'll leave you bigger than it found you.

If not, then you'll have to live all your life with a coward.

Because no matter where you may run

you can never run away from yourself.

I never knew Norman Maine.

He wrote me a very sweet letter

when you were married.

He said you told him how much I meant to you.

And I know just how much you must have meant to him.

You know, Esther

I can't believe that wherever he is

he can be very happy knowing that his death

broke the spirit of the little girl

he praised me so highly for raising.

And I can't believe that he can be very proud

knowing that all his great love did for you

was to make you a quitter.

The car is ready, miss Lester.

We'll have to go now, to make the train.

Put the car back in the garage.

- Granny. - Esther, my dear.

Radio announcer: The entire picture industry has come to

the Chinese theatre for this opening tonight.

It has come to pay tribute to a great star

on her long awaited return to the screen

in what has been called her greatest performance.

It has come to pay tribute to the girl herself.

The girl who has won the heart of Hollywood.

The girl who has won the heart of the world.

Miss Vicki Lester.

And if I'm not mistaken

miss Lester's car has just driven up.

Yes, it is she.

I hope this doesn't scare you too much.

I scare very slowly, young man.

Big smile, folks, please.

They'll have your mug...

I mean, your face plastered

across half the papers in the country tomorrow.

Hmm. How do I look?

Aw, you look swell.

You're a liar, but I like you.

And here's miss Lester's grandmother.

Won't you say a few words for the radio audience, please?

Say something, laddie.

You know, we've got a thing like that back home

where they all listen in on, but we call it a party line.

Won't you say something, please? They're listening.

Maybe some of you people listening in

dream about coming to Hollywood.

Maybe some of you get pretty discouraged.

Well, when you do, you just think about me.

It took me over 70...

Sixty years to get here.

But here I am, and here I mean to stay.

Thank you very much.

Radio announcer: Miss Lester.

This microphone is on an international hook-up.

Throughout the world, your fans are hoping

that you'll say a few words to them.

Hello, everybody.

This is Mrs. Norman Maine.