Original subtitles

EL PICO 2

It had been a very tough year.

Yes, really tough.

My father was deployed to Bilbao.

And things hadn't been easy for me since.

I was a child when I arrived. And a terrible adolescence hit me.

Being the child of a guardia civil was no honour in that region.

And then my best friend, apparently a kid just like me,

turned out to be the exact opposite:

the son of a Basque Independence Party leader.

Still, our friendship was sincere.

But another powerful force united us...

That white, greyish, brownish powder...

called horse, smack, junk...

Countless friendly names for heroin.

I often wonder whether Urko and I foresaw

the events of that November afternoon.

We arrived shivering with cold at Baracaldo.

The pains and anguish of withdrawal.

After going without for three days.

Easy.

You're lucky.

Almost 100gr.

And it's high grade smack.

We were out of our minds.

All we came up with was to hide away at Betty's place.

An Argentinian friend who worked in massage parlours

a form of concealed prostitution.

We locked ourselves in for three days.

Shooting up non-stop.

Urko was clearly weaker than I.

Maybe he couldn't deal with the idea of being a murderer.

I don't know...

in any case, he never got over it.

He's dead.

It was a brutal blow for me.

I felt that only my father could help me.

I wanted to interview you together with the other boy's father.

But I couldn't make it happen.

Our correspondent in Parliament tried to get him to talk.

But he insisted he's resigning due to personal reasons.

No more comments.

There's a world of difference between Mr Aramendia and me

but he is an honest and respectable man.

I respect his choice, given the tragic loss of his son.

But for us journalists, this is a very important story.

Why?

Well, the sons of a guardia civil and of a Basque independence leader...

suddenly involved in a murder case.

A murder case?

At most this was an accidental overdose.

No, I mean the double murder of a dealer known as Limpie

and of his wife.

The bullet shells match the guns used by the Guardia Civil.

Let's see, Mr... what was your name?

Miguel Caballero, of '24 Hours', a Madrid newspaper.

You all seem to be rather muddled in Madrid.

It's no secret that ETA use weapons stolen from our corps.

You narrowly escaped an ETA attack recently.

I didn't know about the theft of your gun.

Indeed.

ETA hasn't done any such thing.

It was stolen later on.

- No. - Are you sure?

Absolutely.

Who could have stolen them?

Say... your son, Paco?

I agreed to talk to you because my superior requested it.

But I won't allow you to be disrespectful.

If your superiors asked you to sit for this interview

it might be that they're also anxious about the rumours.

What rumours?

They're almost evidence.

Evidence of an attitude that would be very human and understandable.

Just a moment.

At this point, I have nothing more to say.

Very well, Commander.

I'll accept your silence.

You might not believe me, but I wish you good luck.

I'm sure you'll need it.

I'll give him ibuprofen for the pain.

That's the best I can do.

Thanks, Colonel.

I'm... a little ashamed of all this.

There's no reason to be.

It happens to many of our men's children.

Easy, Paco.

I can't, Dad. Everything hurts.

Remember what the doctor said.

You've got to have balls.

- Hold out. - I said I can't.

I need a bit of horse, right now.

Or I'll die. Dad!

It's 4.30 a.m.

It's very late.

Yes. I know where, Dad.

But... Paco.

Get dressed.

I said get dressed!

Don't make noise. You'll wake up the girls.

How much did you say you needed?

25,000 - Damn.

Here.

Be very careful.

Dad asked to be transferred to Madrid.

We naively agreed that leaving Bilbao would make everything OK.

My sisters went to live with an aunt in Palencia.

The poor girls were still mourning our mother's death

just a few months before.

Madrid represented my last hope.

My father would take me to the best specialists.

We both thought a doctor somehow would find a solution for me.

We moved in with my grandmother.

Ten years a widow, she shared her loneliness

with old Adela who served in the house since childhood.

- Mum! - Son!

Sir, the boy.

Young Sir.

It was a huge old flat.

With high ceilings.

I was always cold in there, even when the big heaters were on.

There was an old piano.

I always had to stop myself from playing its keys,

because it went out of tune.

Breakfast for the young gentleman? I made hot chocolate.

Don't wake him. He had an awful night.

He kept waking up.

I don't think that chap is doing very well.

But his father won't talk about it.

It's like he's ashamed that the boy is ill.

Come, Ma'am, I'd like to show you something.

You're so mysterious.

Let's see what you've found.

- Look. - Has the doctor's assistant been in?

- No. - So...?

I found it in the bin.

It's an insulin needle, like the ones my cousin used.

Poor boy might have diabetes too.

Oh, Ma'am, do you think?

Go on, throw all this away.

- Adela? - Ma'am?

Don't say a word to anyone.

Is that clear?

May I, Lieutenant?

Come in.

In Bilbao again?

Basque stories are hot. I'm after Torrecuadrada's kid.

You won't let it go.

That interview got me into trouble.

It's not nearly over.

But that case is closed.

You don't say!

So the case is closed.

It's a pity.

I had a good headline in mind.

Guardia Civil's son suspected of murdering two heroin dealers.

You're going too far.

Your focus was on the kids' friendship...

the politician's and the commander's son.

I'm afraid my focus has shifted to other types of relations.

Like dealers' links with the guardia civil.

My sources suggest they picked up the drugs here.

At this police station.

Wouldn't that headline make a splash?

Watch that splash. It might come from a .45.

You're playing with fire.

Granted, you have a peculiar sense of humour.

Relax. I'd never publish anything tricky

without first checking with you.

Our paper wants to work with the State,

and provide merely constructive criticism.

Cut the crap. What do you want?

Who are you fooling? We've known each other for years.

You know too well what I'm after.

Encarna! A gentleman here to see you.

Good afternoon, Miss.

I'm Caballero, from '24 Hours'.

How can I help you?

You saw Limpie's murderers get away, is that right?

Is that right?

Yes... but.

I told the police all I know. And the Guardia Civil too.

Would you recognise him?

The curly-haired one?

This one.

I'd swear it's him.

Oblivious to this investigation,

we visited countless doctors and psychiatrists

those first days in Madrid.

They all had different theories.

Some wanted to lock me up in an institution.

Others wanted me to work in a farm for ex-heroin users.

Where we'd all work like clean, honest peasants.

But it was a Chilean doctor who sold us her idea.

This country doesn't have appropriate centres to treat heroin use.

I recommend a cure based on Metasedin,

which contains Methadone.

Although it is not an officially approved treatment,

it is the only effective method to combat withdrawal syndrome.

So this would be outside the law.

Let's say it's not within the legal framework.

Look.

Adela!

I said no sweets.

Don't worry. I only used saccharine.

The boy likes it so much.

Ah... little Paco. You should watch out with these things.

You can't just eat anything you want.

Don't you agree?

When one is ill, discipline is needed.

Why would you think Paco is ill?

I found it, Sir, the needle in the bin,

and I showed it to Madam.

What's all the fuss?

What's there to hide?

It's not that serious.

Elvira carried her needle around for forty years.

And you had to boil them in those days.

These disposable needles are fabulous.

What was wrong with Elvira?

Same as you, she had sugar in her blood.

Never mind, I'll get it.

Mum!

You're all wrong.

Paco is just fine.

Yes, hello?

Yes, Colonel, I'm listening.

In today's paper?

Right away, Sir.

At your orders.

SON OF A GUARDIA CIVIL, SUSPECTED MURDERER

OF TWO HEROIN DEALERS.

These are all miserable lies.

Certainly. But put yourself in my shoes.

If an arrest warrant is issued, which could happen any minute

the case will be out of my hands.

But Colonel, my son is innocent.

Patience, Torrecuadrada.

Have faith in the judiciary.

I'm losing my faith in everything.

All I can do is point you to a good lawyer.

One who has my full trust.

Here. Laureano Alonso.

Tell him I'm sending you.

He's an expert on cases like this.

Thanks, Colonel.

- But I'll need something else. - Yes?

Can I be present?

You know that's impossible.

He'll be questioned in Madrid,

by the National Police Force.

Let's talk frankly, Colonel.

I don't want him exposed to police violence.

You're not suggesting he'd be hurt. Torture isn't legal.

Oh please, we all know such procedures are still used,

by both police forces.

I'll find out who's in charge.

Rest assured.

Have trust in the force. Don't worry.

- Yes? - It's me, Sir.

I'm coming.

Two men came to speak to you urgently.

- Two men? - Yes, Sir.

They say they're police.

And they have orders to take you to jail.

- Does Granny know? - No, Sir.

She's at mass.

What is it about, Sir?

The police haven't been here since the war,

when the Reds sent uncle Erminio to a firing squad.

Don't worry, Adela.

They won't go that far this time.

Please... don't let Granny find out.

Dad should be back from Bilbao any minute.

Good evening, Inspector.

Evening, Sir.

- How's this going? - Well.

- Keeping the pressure up. - Keep going.

Your father, what did he think of all this?

My father didn't know.

OK now... who fired the gun?

So it was the little Basque boy, huh?

You know we'd like to help you.

Just be reasonable and help us a bit.

So... we're agreed...

it was Aramendía's son who fired the shot.

Is that right?

Yes.

The boy's statement was very wise.

Luckily he's putting the blame on the other kid.

If he said it was Urko, it must be true.

The statement hardly matters, Sir.

In court we will deny any wrongdoing.

- Is that possible? - Naturally.

Just trust me.

At your orders.

- Here, dossier 223. - Good.

- Your father's in the force. - Yes.

Go on, get in.

I was alone for three days in the observation cell.

The Prevention Dept. took my methadone pills.

It was worse than losing my freedom.

Hey, you.

Move your head, or you'll get splashed.

Easy, buddy, you'll get used to it.

It's lunchtime.

- Are you down for some grub? - No. I'm not hungry.

Whatever.

You're new here, huh?

- Yes - What time is it?

Just past 1:20 pm.

Cool watch.

Let go.

Fucking newbie.

Damn you.

What's going on?

They're roughing the newbie up.

Stop sulking.

Shit. They're getting too rough.

The kid can fend for himself.

Let's open the corridor. They're coming back from lunch.

Hey, buddy.

What happened?

The bastards gave me a beating.

You're lucky.

I got robbed and also buggered on my first day.

They've kept your boots too, huh?

I can sell you a pair.

They took my cash too.

You'll pay me sometime. You look legit.

The tip is torn.

They'll hurt less like this.

200 pta fine with you?

Fine.

You can have them for 30.

And get smart, man.

Or you'll be in deep shit.

- Go ahead. - OK.

Watch that bastard with the camera.

- Son of a bitch! - Get out of here!

Go take a picture of your mother.

Could you hold onto this, Madam?

Son of a bitch. Fucker!

... scum from the press.

Let go of me!

I have a right to do my job!

Stop that, what's going on?

Your ID!

At your orders, Sir.

This is a Commander from the force.

Take his press card.

We've been authorised to take pictures here.

Apologies. We'll have to get this checked.

Come with me. Both of you!

Have a nice day, Sir.

Don't forget to read our piece, Commander.

And check out the cover photo.

Come on! Quick!

What are those bruises? Did they hit you?

Not at all. I was playing football in the yard.

I got hit by the ball, by accident.

Paco, be careful.

If you're unwell, ask to go to the infirmary.

Or file a complaint.

- Don't forget that I... - Don't worry, Dad.

- I'm OK. - Honest?

- Tell me about any incidents. - What can I say.

I brought your bucket and some things.

Adela made you a delicious meat pie.

Some of your things got knocked about.

I tripped over at the taxi stand.

But you can eat them anyway.

They'll taste like heaven, Dad.

Come on. It's time.

Take care, son.

You have to be brave.

Goodbye, Dad.

What's up, boy?

Hey, Pirri. Did you get visitors too?

Nah, man. I only have my Granny, and she's on her last legs.

I can pay for the sneakers now.

Put that away, dumbo. Anyone sees you and you're fucked.

Here's the medicine.

No pushing.

Get in line.

You, your name!

Your name...

How do you get them to give you pills?

Sign up for the doc.

You shoot up that crap?

No... erm. Sometimes.

I'm a little hooked to smack.

The 'Basque Governor' is your man.

- Governor? - I'll tell you more.

What's up, Perito?

Here. This is the 'beak's' son, right?

You got a problem with that?

No. But the Gov wants to meet you.

- Who? - Yeah, man, the... Basque Governor.

That guy from Bilbao, goddammit.

Who's the Basque guy? How does he know I'm here?

What does he want?

The Gov knows everything, sucker.

Let me give him the rundown.

Yeah, in detail. The Gov wants to see him tomorrow.

Sure, dude.

What's this shit?

Don't get uptight, man.

The Gov's in the cell, he'll be out tomorrow.

You better meet the guy. For sure.

But who is he?

He's your homeboy, man, from Bilbao.

You mean he's ETA?

He says he ain't. But it looks like he hung out with them,

ages ago, when he was a kid.

They moved on to other stuff back there:

armed robberies, drugs.

But bad habits die hard, man.

- What habits? - Knocking off 'beak's' on duty.

He shot a cop at point blank.

Fuck.

That night I couldn't sleep

thinking of that Governor guy.

Who could it be?

Some guy from ETA?

They'd tried to kill my father.

Watch out!

One of Limpie's clients?

Or the people who got drugs from Urko and me...

What we want, for the time being,

is to stall the boy's transfer to Bilbao.

As Chairman of the Court House, you know how it works.

What would you recommend?

Alonso, what can I say?

You've got to put some... 'weight' on the dossier.

So it sinks into the stack.

Is six or seven weeks doable?

I can't guarantee anything.

Once the courthouse cogs start moving...

We're trying to keep them nice and still.

Oh, Alonso, the things you say. If anyone heard you.

I'll see what I can do for you.

You've brought me all the details?

Do you know who I am?

Yes. The Basque Governor.

Just call me Gov.

- We've got to talk, kiddo. - What about?

Bilbao.

Limpie.

You knew Limpie?

We were hand in glove.

Like brothers.

We lived together for years.

I introduced him to his old lady.

So you and some other loser did him off.

Unbelievable.

Two snotty bastards.

Come by my shack for a bit.

What for?

I have stuff to calm you down.

Needles are not my thing.

That's what the stash is for, right?

I haven't shot up for a while now.

I was on methadone until I was put in jail.

That just gets you double-hooked: to horse and methadone.

So yeah. Limpie and I were buddies for ages.

Once he got nicked for a smack deal.

He was facing a long sentence.

But some weird shit happened, and he was let out.

And I didn't even find it fishy.

I trusted him, and got him another gig.

It was a cool deal.

We'd pick up 2kg of horse from a Thai ship.

Fucking hell.

I realised too late that Limpie was ratting to the Guardia Civil.

Fucking son of a bitch.

It's his fault I've been here for four years.

All this time I thought of ways to break out

so I could bash his head in, and his fucking wife's too.

Four years brooding about it.

And now I find out two little losers have knocked him off.

Life sucks.

A cop's kid and the son of a Basque politician

get rid of the meanest fucker in Bilbao.

Unbelievable.

So... super good horse, huh?

It's doing me fucking great.

I wanted to slap you around, fucker.

Killing that fucker was my reason for living.

Slap him then, get it off your chest.

Shut up bitch, you wish you had balls like this kid's.

Look, he has titties.

He was a transvestite.

Touch. They're like a real chick's tits.

Go on...

I'm splitting.

Hey... those bruises?

A warm welcome, huh?

An old tradition in Carabanchel.

Your cell mates are fucking lame.

Move in with me.

No.

I appreciate it, Gov.

But Pirri is legit... He's been a good buddy.

I wouldn't leave him behind.

No big deal.

I can have you both moved.

What's in it for you, to have me living here?

You don't even know me.

'Cause I feel like it.

You've knocked off the bastard I most hated in the world.

I think you and I can be good friends.

In no time, the Gov had us moved into his cell.

His shack was at the very top of the corridor.

And he watched people come and go like an eagle on the prey.

My life became more bearable.

My bare necessities were covered.

- Four coffees - Fine.

But Carabanchel is the kind of place

that keeps throwing new problems at you.

Keep an eye on them, they move horse around.

But watch out, they're a bunch of faggots.

- Here's your coffee. - Pick 'em up.

Hey, Blondie.

Take no notice.

You! The 'beak's' son.

Yes. What's up?

What's up?

What's up... goes down.

Who cares.

You're turning me on like fuck.

Hey, are you into this?

- What do you mean? - What makes you tick?

We have a bit of everything at the shack.

Pop in, we can shoot up together.

Or does Gov have exclusive rights over you?

Shit, watch that scar on your arm.

- How's the rump? Holding up? - What?

Your ass, is it scarred badly too?

He pretends to be a virgo.

Like Gov hasn't nailed his spade into this bull.

And lanced him from atop his horse.

What a tight little ass...

Cut it out, I'm gonna spill the coffee.

Relax. Thatcher has cash.

For coffee, and for a gram or two, if you need it.

In exchange for you-know-what.

What's taking so long? The coffee's getting cold.

It's just that...

See? It's gone cold.

This cup was for me.

And me only.

And I don't like it cold.

Fuck...

Hold it.

Look Thatcher,

this is the last time you come near this kid.

Got it?

Shit, Gov, don't get so excited.

It was just a joke.

You know I don't like jokes.

Let's go, Paco.

Why did you let him do that?

Why do you hold back?

Look man, I've known the Gov for years now.

It's best to hold back.

That's the one.

Who's there?

- Lopez Segura. - Just a minute.

Come in.

What is it you want?

To talk to you.

Are you alone?

My family went back to the village for the holidays.

- Province of Badajoz, is that right? - Yes.

Do you like the Basque country...? Ever miss your hometown?

I'm getting used to it.

Would you mind telling me why you're here?

Of course. Firstly, I'm Laureano Alonso, attorney.

This is Capt Torrecuadrada.

Guardia Civil, and father of my client.

You know who I mean.

Sure. Please take a seat.

It's about Paco, the Commander's son.

Who was imprisoned on the basis of your affidavit.

We're sure the boy is innocent, but...

we thought that, maybe you declared against him...

because you had some kind of stake in the matter.

I didn't know him at all.

Precisely.

How could I benefit...

Let's say you had...

please excuse me... a monetary benefit.

I would never!

You didn't realise your testimony had grave consequences.

A declaration based on just one photo

of someone you had only seen for 5 seconds.

Or rather, whom you thought you saw.

What if it wasn't him?

I'm only asking you to think it through.

On behalf of a Guardia Civil.

A defender of the law.

Let's not bother the lady any longer.

Our apologies, Miss.

It's no trouble.

- Canaries, right? - Yes.

I grew up with canaries in the house.

I'm from a mining town.

My father always carried one down to the mine

in case there was gas.

If the bird died, a sensible person knew

that their life was at risk.

Alright, Miss.

Please think about it.

And remember, my son's freedom...

is in your hands.

There was an unexpected appearance

at Carabanchel.

I never thought I'd see my friend Betty again.

But there she was.

Despite my surprise,

I tried to speak to her warmly

even light-heartedly.

But she soon started spewing bitter reproaches.

Now really, you were such a bastard.

You left me at home with Urko's body.

I'm sorry.

It was fucked up to run off and leave you with that shit.

But I was out of my mind, Betty, really.

It was such a blow.

OK, pal, it's all in the past. Don't torture yourself.

I'm sure your old man will drag you out of here soon.

Will you go back to Bilbao?

No.

Me neither.

They gave me a hard time there.

But I got a job here... in a massage parlour, of course.

- You're a right whore. - What do you expect, pal.

When you're out, will we see each other?

Sure, Betty.

It didn't take long for Pirri to warm up to smack.

Soon he was riding that horse as if it was second nature.

- What's wrong? - Nothing. I just went through the vein.

I told you to let me help you.

That's it.

Aw shit. What a trip.

Don't get too used to it, the pipeline's drying up.

Yes, honey, I know what I'm talking about.

Wave that shit goodbye.

- What's this bitch saying? - Gov asked me not to tell you.

But we've made plans.

We'd been thinking about it for a while.

I actually moved you in here...

because it would be good for the plan.

So how's it gonna work?

It's very simple.

Perito and me...

We're gonna mess ourselves up nasty.

And get sent to hospital.

That's what you call simple?

At the hospital, everything's set up for the getaway.

The point is to get out, fuck it.

It's a setup that's worked for plenty of people.

And I'm better organised than most.

You really think that chick's gonna break out?

For Gov I'd do anything.

What would you know, brat?

I might have boobs, but I also got balls.

I'm glad you've thought about it.

It's a wise and fair decision.

Don't worry about that.

I'll go to Bilbao and we'll draft a retraction for you tomorrow.

Now just have a good rest.

See you tomorrow.

It worked?

Yes. It's an big step forward.

Now let's see what the prosecution says.

This is the best time.

It's 3 pm, everyone's locked up till 5.

Are you sure?

I won't hesitate.

I can already smell the street air on my ass.

Don't let me down, OK?

The minute I cut myself,

you call to say I'm dying and I need to go to hospital.

No sweat. I'll bang that door till my wrist snaps.

Both at once... are you ready?

I am.

Get on with it.

Fucking sissy.

Do I cut her myself?

You stay put, and keep quiet.

Call for fucking help Paco.

Number?

322!

Fucking stop it now.

- You think he offed himself? - You wish.

- He just wants to go to hospital. - Right. The old trick still works.

Bastards, fuckers.

Quit bawling, faggot.

Or I'll make you swallow your teeth.

What a loser. He's gonna be stuck in here for life,

and even then he didn't have the balls.

Screw you.

The Gov's gonna be on the streets, and you'll be stuck here.

Looking for a cock to suck.

Damned slut.

Leave that sissy, she's a fucking waste of time.

Feel like shooting up?

We used up all our horse.

That's how we spent the evening and night.

At daybreak we fell asleep so deep

we didn't even realise what had happened.

I don't get it. The affidavit has been retracted,

why won't they set him free immediately.

Well, we did put the dossier on the back burner, didn't we?

And now that's working against us.

It's a matter of days now.

Sure, I trust you blindly, Sir.

A man of your experience can speed up...

... or slow down a dossier at will.

Thanks, I appreciate your trust.

But I'm afraid it's getting harder to get things done.

You can't imagine how many obstacles

these Government people are putting on our path.

Tell us about it, Lopez.

Here are all the details.

Let's hope things can move fast.

Without the Gov, we lost all access to horse.

And we were back to cold turkey.

Beyond the pain, the sweat, the shivers...

the feeling of being stuck in a black hole was unbearable.

You no longer want to live...

die...

or anything else.

What do I say?

I don't know.

The obvious. That you want some smack.

But we only have 4,000 pta.

Tell him you'll pay later, dammit.

What did he say?

He doesn't hold a grudge.

He'll see us at his shack in ten.

I'll come too.

No, man. He said I should go alone.

Don't you shoot up without me.

No dammit, wait for me at the shack.

Are we buddies, or what?

Nice shot he's cooked up.

I'm spoiling you. It's almost a quarter.

- Top-grade horse too. - OK, man.

Give me the tool, fast.

I'm cold turkey as hell. I can't take it any more.

Where are you gonna shoot up?

Here. Same as always.

There?

Let's see how he's doing down here.

Get his prick pricked.

Here, where you can't see it.

Sure, fucker. You think I'm stupid?

I knew I'd have to put up with this.

Some kids here swallow for just 200 pta.

Any time.

But we've... got a thing for you.

And there's something...

...kinky about screwing a 'beak's' son.

Right, pals?

But you've got to do it with all four of us.

I'm saving myself for last.

Cause I've been on horse for years now,

so I need a bit more foreplay.

But in your case, I might be up for it a little faster.

I get at least one gram.

I'm cold turkey really bad.

My buddy's going up the wall.

Easy, this smack is gonna kill the pain.

You're gonna be cool.

I can't hold back any longer, man.

Go on. Give me the horse.

The horse? You just shot up like a king.

Nah. I did my bit....

with all four. You promised one gram.

Cut the crap, kid.

You think we pay to get laid?

You can't screw me over like this.

At least...

give me 4,000 pta worth of smack, huh?

My buddy's got the shivers real bad.

That's the exact price... of the stuff you just shot up.

We're even.

You wouldn't.

Listen Paco... if you like...

you can shoot up with me every afternoon.

Forget the cash.

Just keep giving my buddies a good time.

I'm happy to watch the show.

Perhaps I'll join in again.

Forget Pirri.

Tell him to fend for himself.

You're a fucking bitch, filthy bastard.

You're not even a real sissy.

Son of a bitch!

You piece of shit!

Out. Bar the door.

Did you score?

There's no horse, Pirri. I got nothing.

What's that about?

You shot it all up. Your eyes are like pinholes.

They only filled up that one needle. That's all.

And the dough? Give me the fucking cash now.

They snatched it. The bastards kept the whole thing.

Son of a 'beak'. Typical. I shoulda guessed.

Whatever.

Search me see if I have it on me.

I'm gonna kill him.

I'm gonna kill that son of a bitch.

Where's Thatcher? Where's that bitch?

What the fuck?

Where's Thatcher?

- None of your business. - Tell me where

He just went down to the yard.

Where are you going?

Thatcher!

What now, huh?

You're still a fucking bitch.

Drop that, will you?

- Let go. - It's nothing.

Let me see him!

Is this the Torrecuadrada boy?

Yeah, so what?

Pack your stuff. Your father's waiting.

He got you out....

Congrats, man.

I never saw Pirri again.

What became of him?

Is he in some prison?

Or scraping a living on the street?

Who knows. I remember him fondly, and with sadness.

Where's the boy?

In the toilet?

Just a minute. It's for Mr Paco.

Mr Paco, phone call for you.

Who is it?

A girl.

I'm coming.

Hi Betty, how are you?

Yeah, I'm fine.

I had no idea, it came as a surprise.

Alright. See you tomorrow.

Kisses.

CAPT. TORRECUADRADA'S SON RELEASED.

It's a crying shame.

Just half a column in the Gossip section?

You're the boss here,

and we could get into a libel suit.

So what? One more for our collection.

You know we can get a lot more out of this.

It's been the cover story twice.

But we were proven wrong.

The judge released the kid.

So? Stories like these are forgotten instantly.

Today's news will be fish wrappings tomorrow.

Toilet paper even.

I prefer proper toilet rolls.

Look, boss, the witness has vanished...

...without a trace. What can I do about that?

Let me spell it out.

Rumour has it that the Guardia Civil

pays its infiltrators with heroin in the Basque Country.

Then ETA has suddenly taken to killing drug dealers.

In the middle of all this, your story involves

no less than the son of a guardia civil.

And you ask me what can you do?

We've been at it for five months.

We're still trying to crack it.

We need the centrefold story.

The investigative report

that I know you can produce.

If your buddy helps you out, of course.

What friend?

That lieutenant of yours in Bilbao.

I'm sure you still know ways to persuade him.

Dear Dad... I hope these lines

won't cause you too much pain.

I can only be grateful for everything you've done for me.

If I'm leaving now

it's because there is no hope for me

I'll try to stay out of trouble.

And once I've straightened my life out,

I hope to return to see you all without feeling ashamed.

In the meantime please don't look for me.

Granny and my sisters deserve your attention more than I do.

Take a break from all this pain.

Hugs from your son.

I moved in with Betty.

She was still a sex worker.

Her clients found her in the contacts section.

With the money she made, I scored packs of heroin.

And sold it on in smaller bags.

To increase the profit, I'd add some glucose to the heroin.

Or any other substance.

My heroin was already... 'cut' with other stuff, as they say.

But we weren't doing that well.

We both had too much competition.

Workers have come into action

to demand new jobs from the Ministry of Industry

before the factory is completely shut down.

We have some breaking news now.

A recluse from Carabanchel has escaped from hospital.

Imanol Retolaza, aka the Basque Governor.

Convicted for drug-trafficking

and the murder of a guardia civil.

According to police sources, his escape...

was arranged with help

from a gang in organised crime.

- What do you want? - To see the Gov.

Who's that?

I did time with him. He said I could ask around here.

I don't know that Gov guy.

A lot of people walk past here, you know?

Why don't you tell me where you can be reached?

Here's my address.

I moved out of my father's place.

- I'm living with a chick. - Sure. OK.

Knock it off, I'm not in the mood.

What's wrong with you? It's been days now.

Have you stopped liking me?

It's not that. I like you.

It's the heroin. I can't get it up.

Then don't shoot up so much.

You just lie around here while I walk the streets.

Hey, I'm also on the street selling junk.

What you make doesn't even pay our sodas.

If you don't like me and how I live, I'll just split.

Go find a guy who fucks you just right.

But Paco, honey. You don't get me.

Get dressed, looks like we have visitors.

What's up, Paco?

What's up, Gov?

You look great.

You don't, though.

Check out those bags under your eyes...

This is Betty. And this is the Gov.

I've been wanting to meet you. Paco talks about you a lot.

Good things, huh?

Good? Wonderful.

I don't know, maybe he's in love with you.

When you get to know me, my qualities shine through.

Right.

You have... many qualities?

You'll find out in time.

Take a seat.

Something to drink?

A beer, huh?

I've got it all laid out, it's going to go great.

I'm cutting ties with the old crowd.

Why?

They've been there for you.

They got you horse in jail.

And helped you get away.

Sure kid. Know why they did it?

They offered me a job.

A job.

A really shitty job.

I thought I'd have to move smack around,

but no.

That wasn't it.

What then?

They want to catch ETA members just across the border.

No shit.

Yeah, man, that's what it was.

But I'm not down with that. No way.

I've got old friends in ETA, after all.

I'm not up for screwing them over.

What are you going to do?

I'd rather not depend on anyone.

I'll be my own boss.

Good plan.

But you need a ton of cash, don't you?

A ton of cash?

This is the best kind of cash.

- OK, shit, but... - Let me see it.

- Be careful. - It's not loaded.

Count me in.

I'm tired of sucking old men off.

Keep it shush. This stuff isn't for chicks.

Depends on the kind of chick.

You didn't tell me the Argentinian chick was so hot.

There you go. She's burning hot.

You're not a jealous guy, are you?

What if he was? Would that stop you?

Me? Nothing stops me.

No, not yet.

They've been in the flat for two hours.

So I should leave my post?

OK, best to be discreet.

I'm heading there.

Careful. She's still alive.

Come, jump in. Freeze!

Get in!

Squat. Don't be scared.

Just take a little nap.

You're crazy. You're in deep shit.

We know that, relax. Let's see that striptease.

- What? - Put on your birthday suit.

Don't worry, we won't take advantage of you.

Just enough Pentothal for a little nap.

We won't take it.

Up to you...

It's either dozing off.

Or eternal sleep.

Come on. Get that vein ready, piglet.

What's going on, officer?

Your tank's leaking, you're losing fuel.

That's odd. We just had it checked.

See the trail for yourself.

What trail are you talking about?

Watch it.

Or there'll be a trail of blood.

They've never sent just one guy. Especially not that sissy.

You keep an eye out.

I don't trust those people.

Where's the stuff?

No stuff.

What? We had an agreement.

I've got cash.

It's not the cash, Gov. You know that.

The organisation won't get you heroin unless you take the job.

Fucking hell.

Who told you to get involved in politics?

We don't care about politics.

It's a dirty war.

I can't believe it Gov, you know how things work.

There's a lot of money involved...

and also....

Also what?

You know.

They only let us operate

if we do what the higher-ups want.

Count me out then.

I'm setting up on my own.

Understood?

Right.

And you drag the beak's son along, huh?

Hey! It's my own business who I drag along.

Watch your back. Remember what he did to Limpie.

His father's a piece of work too.

The kind of guy who takes his uniform too seriously.

Did I even ask you for advice?

I know what I'm doing.

So you've got nothing for me.

Like I said...

Fucking wimps, bugger off.

There's no doubt, then. He's a hopeless case.

Poor Torrecuadrada.

Sure, Captain.

That Gov guy, he's charismatic.

He'll drag anyone along. Especially a kid like that.

Sure, he ropes everyone in.

Even you lot fell for it.

How is that, Captain?

He fooled you again.

You helped him out of jail

and now he won't come through.

Without a word of thanks

for all the heroin you smuggled in.

How ungrateful, huh?

That's life, Captain.

What will you do about him?

The organisation decided to forget the Gov.

Now he's your problem.

We're getting him on a silver platter?

That's all we can do.

I don't know which one to choose.

This one suits you best.

It's simply marvellous.

Don't hesitate.

Everyone freeze. This is a hold-up.

Quick, quick.

- You got hit? - It's nothing.

He's bleeding. You need a doctor.

Don't be stupid. Get me to Betty's place.

We'll dump the car on the the highway.

It's getting worse, huh?

Don't worry. It's just a scratch.

Are you sure we're safe hiding in Bilbao?

Better than Madrid.

In Bilbao I know my way around.

It seems risky.

What do you mean?

With all the trouble up there, we can slip through.

I've spotted an abandoned house near Neguri.

It's a cool place, you'll see.

The car's ready.

Great. Let's see some road.

Off to Bilbao.

WELCOME TO BILBAO

OK.

Our fears have been confirmed.

Your son was spotted

with the Argentinian and the other man

...in a refuge near Bilbao.

Where?

For the time being, we don't know.

They've been spotted... but they don't know the location?

I understand your distress, but calm down.

Your son is travelling

with a very dangerous and slippery subject.

Put your trust in our men.

Sir, I'm ready to resign from the force.

I should have done so months ago.

I'm aware of how entangled things are getting.

Certain sectors of the press

are willing to feed their readers filth.

My story is a very useful platform for them

to bash conservatives and progressives alike.

They've determined that we're an unpopular police force.

Dreaded and hated.

Nasty stories about us will always sell.

Please Torrecuadrada, how can you say that?

Spain... at least, the good folk of this country,

... love and respect their Guardia Civil.

You know that isn't true.

I could show you many news stories...

books, and especially movies...

... that were bestsellers just because they featured

one of our three-peaked hats.

To launch attacks against our institution.

It's easiest to use cases like mine,

where they can claim

to criticise a specific person rather than...

... what they represent.

Do you believe we deserve such treatment?

Sir, my family has been in the army for many generations.

I've seen repulsive men, not worthy of our uniform.

But I have no regrets of wearing it all these years.

I always thought I was fulfilling my duty.

That's why, before I resign

I'll lend one last service.

I need to dress as a guardia civil again.

To fulfil a painful but unavoidable duty.

What do you plan to do?

I will personally... take care

of my son's arrest.

Don't count on my support for that crazy endeavour.

I shan't be needing it.

Some of our men, are nothing but filthy rats.

Who will find it convenient to lend their support.

You wouldn't call me for something trivial.

This story will interest you. It's amazing.

They all are.

Torrecuadrada wants to arrest his son himself.

At gunpoint if he needs to.

Let's hope he does.

It's worth your while?

It's worth a fortune.

About how much?

- I'd have the exclusive? - Yes.

Of course you would.

When?

Tomorrow.

We spotted the boy, his father's out to get him.

We need someone to tell him the location.

You and I have to agree on this.

What a crap night.

This sucks.

What, you fancied a stroll?

I'd like to be out of here.

To get out of this mess.

You've got to work on that patience, buddy.

Where's the dope and the tool?

It's right there.

Not much left.

Come on, there's at least seven grams.

You'll see.

It'll be gone in a couple of days.

What the fuck do we do then?

Listen, Paco. I said you should trust me.

Soon we'll fuck off and it'll all be fine.

We've got the cash, the guns.

What else do you want?

Nothing, I don't want anything any more.

Come, kid, how many times did you shoot up today?

I dunno.

I've lost count.

What's wrong, goofball?

You want the same fate as Urko?

You know what, Betty?

Urko did the right thing.

A nice shot, a trip...

And a good rest.

Eternal rest.

Don't freak out.

I'm not giving myself an overdose.

You should... know me better by now.

I'm a coward, mates....

A coward.

Who's this?

A friend.

I guess you want to know

where to find your son Paco tonight.

You know where?

Of course.

Why not tell the cops?

You're a guardia civil, right?

Well, here's a chance to arrest a criminal.

Or will you keep protecting him?

Give me the location immediately.

I'm here to pick you up, Paco.

Did you hear me?

Yes Dad, I heard you.

Are you alone?

No.

Get all the others to come out.

Who said you could come in, Dad?

No one here gave you permission.

The Guardia needs no permission to enter criminals' hideouts

Watch out, Dad.

The criminals in this hideout are armed.

What, do I look strange holding a gun?

Why?

I've see you hold one since I was a kid.

See?

Here's my gun.

It's after all...

what you wanted for me.

We're even now, we're both armed.

And I don't have to wear that stupid beak-shaped hat.

Very well...

Since you have a gun, use it.

Go on, have balls for once in your life.

Shoot me.

I hate to barge in on family matters.

But it'll be best to throw your gun and raise your hands.

Move! They'll surround the house.

Open up! Guardia Civil!

Stay calm.

This route is free. We can get away.

Get away?

Where to?

You were right...

You're a coward...

I think it's time to go in.

Come, let's go.

Want a cigarette?

No. I'm on duty.

The press covered the events for a while.

Then, little by little,.

they forgot.

They put me back in jail for about 8 months.

It was a heated trial,

but it didn't trail on too long.

In the military service, I re-encountered

the military milieu of my childhood years.

After all, family is a man's last resort.

And this was my family.

What's the matter, huh?

Betty, keep an eye on the kid. He needs changing.

You're right. I'll get some nappies.

You know something?

I've been going down memory lane.

What for? To get even more depressed?

No, to try to understand life.

You expect someone?

Yes. Jose and Javi.

Hi. Come in.

All good?

All great.

- You sold it all? - The lot.

Here's the cash.

Here's 3 grams. Not the best horse around.

So don't cut it with anything.

Sure. We never touch it.

Let's hope so. Clients know you work for me.

It's my ass if any shit goes down.

Sure, man, relax.

You want a beer?

Never mind, we're in a rush.

We're meeting a client at the station.

Good. Always be punctual.

Don't forget. In three days I get the cash

or the leftover smack.

There's never any left over.

There, till then.

Hello?

Hi Paco, Capt. Alcántara speaking.

Afternoon, Sir.

We expect a big batch on a fishing ship.

Yes, I can give you quite some details on that, Sir.

Drop by tomorrow first thing.

Alright. See you tomorrow.

With all the info.

Sure.

I hope so.

Yes, Sir.

The chicken's going to burn.

Hey, little one. Daddy's gonna get you to sleep.

To all the convicts we met in Carabanchel.

And to all those who fight the slavery of heroin.

Filmed in...

subbed by A&D&U&A.