Original subtitles

“Zespoły Filmowe” present

Starring

As the Boys

SHOOT, PARAGON!

Screenplay, on the basis of his own novel

Music

Production Designer, Make up, Costumes

Sound Editing

Cinematography, Directing and Production Cooperation

Atelier and Laboratory

Production Manager

Cinematography

Directed by

Get him!

Harder!

You brats!

Tinkers! Hooligans!

Disperse, as I live and breathe, or I’ll whip you all!

Disperse!

What? I will thump you…

So that’s how you train?

Is that how athletes behave, as I live and breathe?

You’re going at each other like roosters again?

Calm down! What’s it all about?

What’s going on?

They wanted to take the field.

And it’s our turn to practice.

I don’t want any hooligans or tinkers here!

Preach to them, old master.

They play here every day and won’t let us in.

They have their field. We don’t go there.

This field is big enough for everyone.

And if you want to see who is better, as I live and breathe,

set the time for a game and show what you’ve got.

They’re not worth playing with.

You’re not the first hotshot I’ve met.

You’re scared, huh? You’re scared.

Just play, I dare you!

We can play. When?

On Sunday.

Works for you? Sunday at 5 pm in sneakers.

Thirty minutes for each half.

Fine. Just bring sacks for goals.

And we won’t play with that rag, but with a normal ball.

We can’t play a serious game with that ball.

That’s not honorable.

We have to try and get a new one.

How much money do we have?

We’ll see. Get lost.

It’s almost empty, gents. Contributions are few.

Cash shorts all the way.

We have 85 Polish zloty.

- It won’t work. - Why the long faces?

We can play with their ball. It’s almost new.

Are you out of your mind, dude?

With their ball on our field?

- They’ll say we can’t afford it. - So let’s postpone the game.

Are you crazy? That wouldn’t be fair!

They’ll think we’re scared of them.

Paragon, you have an electron brain, think of something.

Paragon, your ideas are always phenomenal…

It’s about the team’s honor.

Why do you stand like you came to a funeral?

If it’s about honor, consider it taken care of.

Kid, stay there. You’ll pass us the balls.

Pass the ball.

Isn’t there another one?

There surely isn’t.

I thought I saw it fall here.

My shoelace!

You are to watch Skumbria like a hawk.

I will, I will.

Tell me the truth, where did you get the ball?

Not to worry. You know… I’ve handled it.

That ball costs at least 300 zloty.

More.

- Where did you get the money? - Why are you so worried?

Tell me.

Leave me alone.

- I said, I handled it. - You’re fighting again?

Stop that. The ball is great so what’s your problem?

My problem is the team’s honor.

If you’re so honorable why didn’t you bring the ball?

Pass the ball!

Thank you.

Guys, it was a foul!

You’re playing too rough.

Guys, what a treat! Stefanek came to the game.

- Where? - There!

Give it all you’ve got! Stefanek is here!

Are you mad? You’ve wasted such an opportunity.

Leave me alone.

Where to? You’re offside!

Bravo, Julek! Keep it up! Beat them to zero!

One more foul and you’re off the field.

- Me? - Who else?

It wasn’t a foul. He had the ball.

Yeah, right!

Can you play?

I can’t. I’m going home.

Disperse, boys. We keep playing.

Hey, young man. Wait.

What happened?

I don’t know. It hurts.

It was a foul.

Take a seat and let me see.

- Where does it hurt? - My ankle.

- Better? - Better!

The pain is all gone.

- You’re like a doctor. - Try getting up.

It doesn’t hurt.

The pain is surely gone!

- Paragon is coming! - Thank you.

Volley now!

Don’t dribble!

Not everyone at once, gentlemen!

Take it to the left wing.

To the left wing!

Well done, boys! Really well done!

1:1 is a good score.

We’ll get into a better shape, get better at teamwork and we’ll win.

You play well, kid.

That goal was brilliant.

I’ve been playing here and there.

I watch the way you play, I come to your every game.

Do you come to practice as well?

Sometimes.

You have a really cool ball.

I didn’t steal it, I borrowed it.

I wanted to return it after the game.

We didn’t have money.

Why didn’t you come and ask to borrow it?

We would have agreed and you’d have saved your face.

Take it. I don’t need it. It was just for this game, anyway.

You said it was legal.

They didn’t know.

It was me.

You took it, you bring it back.

See you, lads.

Disgrace! I knew it!

- What have you done? - What’s your problem, Manjaro?

- The team’s honor! - I told him it was me.

- You think he believed you? - I swear it’s the truth.

We don’t need the likes of you on the team.

What about the game? That doesn’t count?

Whatever! I don’t give a hoot for you!

For any of you!

Lads! Sensational news!

Manjaro!

What?

Sensational news! Look at the last page.

- Sport section. Here. - Where?

- Great Tournament of Wild Teams… - We’re not wild, are they crazy?

Don’t interrupt.

Great Tournament of Wild Teams For the Prize of Golden Football.

Details to follow soon.

- You don’t get it? - A tournament. What of it?

My small minded dudes, we can play in it.

- Don’t call us dudes… - Quiet, people!

First, we must vote on whether we want to play.

You and your voting! We must play and that’s that!

Guys! You’ll never guess!

Great Tournament of Wild Teams!

Paragon!

That’s a shame. We’ll be weaker without him.

I really didn’t mean to.

I’ve only borrowed it.

Fine, fine. No use talking about it.

You brought it back, so it’s fine.

Everything’s going swell?

Not really. They kicked me out of the team.

For what?

For that ball.

You’re sorry now, aren’t you?

I am.

Manjaro was a know-it-all,

but overall it was a great posse.

Don’t worry. Maybe we’ll think of something.

When is your next practice?

I’m not really sure…

They don’t want to talk to me.

Here.

- What’s your name? - Marian.

But everyone calls me Paragon.

Paragon? That’s quite groovy.

Cheer up, Paragon. It’ll all be well, you’ll see.

It surely will, Mr Wacek.

You’re quite a charmer.

What grade are you in?

Seventh.

- You have parents? - A mother.

- She drives trams. - And your father?

He left and never came back.

You will get that ball from me,

but it won’t be easy.

I’ll do anything for you.

These are wicked.

- You like them? - Yes!

They’re too big for you.

Besides, at your age soccer is played in sneakers.

So, do you still want

a ball for your team?

Sure thing!

Then clean those shoes, but make them shine.

Geez Louise!

What are you waiting for?

- Shouldn’t we wait? - For what?

Just tell him, he won’t bite.

Soldier takes his gun with him…

What is it? What’s it about?

It’s us, from the Mermaid.

Can’t you see how busy I am? Come back later.

But we’re here on an important official business.

Was there an earthquake or did one of you swallow a whistle?

We’re here about the Wild Teams Tournament.

And what of it? I won’t be playing in it.

But we would like to play in it.

We came to ask you if we should. Do we even stand a chance?

Do you stand a chance?

Bon appétit.

Let me give you some advice.

Join forces with the Hurricane.

- Never! - With those hooligans?

We can take Paragon,

Perełka,

and maybe you.

The rest are out.

Thanks for nothing.

What about Krzyś?

- What about Ignaś? - I’m better than Tadek.

- Tadek is better. - For breaking bones.

Quit whining.

Stop fighting, it’s an important matter.

Besides, the club will be called Hurricane anyway.

- Why not Warm Mountain Wind? - Or Earthquake?

Quiet you brats! I didn’t buy you ice cream for you to make trouble!

I repeat. We can take Paragon, Perełka and you.

You want in? That’s cool. If not, get lost and fast.

Don’t do us any favors. Let’s go, boys.

We won’t be talking to such turds.

What did you say?

You’re a turd and a hooligan.

Hooligans! They’ll destroy the place!

What? Here’s for you.

My head!

Stop it! Police!

What’s going on here? Let go of him!

I’ll show you! What are you doing?

And now we’ll talk.

- My respects, thank you! - Bye.

Paragon! Come here.

What would you say if I came to your practice?

- You? - When do you train?

I don’t know.

Tomorrow at 5 pm. Maybe I’ll teach you something.

Paragon, what a disgrace! They all got locked up.

Królewicz got us ice cream and then there was a brawl.

And Baryła locked them all up. Help, Paragon.

Slow down. And tell me all clearly as it happened.

For I understand nothing. Who’s locked up?

Manjaro, Ignaś, Scumbria…

Also Królewicz and Szukała. I ran away.

What are they in for, man?

They wanted to join forces.

Start making sense or I’ll thump you.

It all started with the tournament…

Oh, that’s you Paragon.

What brings you here?

Dear Sergeant,

I’m here on behalf of our club,

Mermaid, to invite you

to a game.

I know you like football

and are a respected fan.

Quit charming me, Paragon. I know you well.

As I live and breathe!

I saw you attending the last game, Sergeant.

You know football.

- Who are you playing? - The Hurricane.

A sensational game. And you,

as the police officer, will get an honorable seat.

Can we count on your presence?

I’ll be there if I’m not on duty.

That’s groovy.

I just don’t know if this game will take place.

- Why don’t you know? - It all depends on you.

- On me? - Sure!

Your actions weakened both teams.

So that’s why you’re here, you rascal.

I won’t let them go until their parents show up.

I have no mercy for brawlers and hooligans.

- So there won’t be a game? - There won’t.

So the authorities don’t care if sport isn’t flourishing?

Hooligans must be taught some manners.

Does this mean the end of football in our neighborhood?

Complete disaster!

Both teams will fall apart,

boys will start to wander aimlessly,

end up in juvie,

there will be no games… Surely a disaster.

Quit charming me, I’m telling you.

I can vouch for Manjaro and Ignaś.

If they’re guilty, I’ll eat my hat!

They’re innocent, Sergeant.

Me and Mr Stefanek vouch for them.

- What he’s got to do with it? - He’s our coach.

When he finds out you locked up his best players, he’ll walk away.

I’m pleading to you, Sergeant. It’s about the good of sport.

Oh, Paragon, Paragon!

You’re a good buddy.

We will make you a chairman.

They’re innocent. As lambs.

- Guys! - Perełka!

- Where is Paragon? - Paragon?

Paragon wasn’t with us.

You’re a great pal, Perełka.

You took care of it beautifully.

It wasn’t me. It was Paragon.

Paragon!

Quiet you clots! I’ve just seen the editor.

Enrollment takes place in room 21.

- Hey there! - Hey yourself!

- You won’t kid us like that. - You’re enrolling?

- Of course! And you? - Obviously.

When they drop out, they’ll pass us the balls.

- You sent us to the wrong room. - To their legal division.

Get lost, bro, or we’ll scare you off.

What do these brats want? Tell them who they’re dealing with.

Watch it or I’ll glue your ears to your feet.

Calm down!

If that noise keeps up, we won’t enroll anyone.

Who’s first?

8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13…

That’s enough for today!

Surely, such practice sucks anyway.

- Mr Stefanek will show you tomorrow. - For real?

- Maybe you’re making this up? - I told you.

He said he’ll come and train us.

We’ll see.

We have a coach, and a proper ball

and yet we still look like raggamuffins.

We should have identical uniforms for the tournament.

Red shorts and white T-shirts.

- With a mermaid on them. - Of course.

It’s all very well,

but where will we get the money?

Paragon, how much do we have?

After the game, we have 248 zloty. Safe as in the bank.

Paragon,

bring the money tomorrow and we’ll go buy the emblems.

Sure thing, boss. See ya!

Groovy!

You’ve lost weight.

It just seems so to you. I’m training.

You should get down to some honest work,

instead of just chasing that ball.

We have a tournament.

- Where is the money? - What money, son?

Money! Where is the money?

I forgot to tell you…

Mum, did you take it?

I did.

Spent it on the jacket.

I’ll pay you back when I get paid.

It wasn’t mine. It was the team’s.

- That money? - All we had from the game.

I’m so sorry, son.

I thought it was what you saved by selling bottles.

I’m so sorry,

don’t be angry with me.

I get paid in two days, I’ll give it back to you.

What will I do now?

What will I tell them?

Paragon! Hey! Paragon!

Wait!

- What’s up? - I can’t complain.

- Why the long face? - You’re seeing things.

Stop pretending! Where are you off to?

Are you angry with me?

You’re a good pal. I forgot to thank you.

It happens. Don’t mention it.

Well, we would accept you to our team.

Surely, I’ll pass.

Paragon, wait!

You’re too good for those wimps.

The pack is strong; a few boys transferred from Motor.

We have new tracksuits, blue and red T-shirts.

They’re cool! We even bought two new balls.

Black and white, like on TV.

- Where did you get the dosh? - Durczak’s paying.

- Who is he? - A dude from our street.

He was a professional player. He’s loaded and loves football.

He’s financing us.

You on the left wing, me on the right and Scumbria in the middle.

We’d have an awesome attack, get it?

You won’t poach me.

Well, it won’t keep me up at night. Take care!

Hey, do you have any money?

I always have some. Come, I’ll treat you to a Ferris wheel ride.

I’m in trouble. Could you lend me some money till tomorrow?

- How much? - Not much. About three hundred.

Three hundred? I only have sixty.

I’ll take it. Maybe I’ll come by the rest somehow.

But it won’t help you.

If you really have a problem, come to see me tonight.

- You’ll lend me some? - We’ll see.

Maybe Romek will give me something. We’ll talk.

- See you. - Bye!

So? Do you have the money?

Why in such a hurry? It’s in the bag.

I told you to bring the money.

The balance is right, it’s all like in the bank.

Even the interests are growing.

I’ve asked you several times to settle the account.

We need dosh for the emblems.

- What’s the problem? - You’re up to something.

- Tell me the truth. - Don’t you worry.

Why didn’t you bring it?

Is this as it was with the ball?

You think I nicked it, don’t you?

No, I don’t. I just want the money.

You know it belongs to the team.

You’re a wimp.

And if you want the money so badly, you’ll have it soon.

We have new T-shirts, socks…

The emblems will be made by the best embroiderer.

You’ll see how cool they’ll be.

Why the long face?

No reason. You got the dosh?

No, but I talked to Romek.

I’ll call him.

Let it go, Romek.

Romek, Paragon is here.

Hello, Paragon.

I’ve heard you’re in trouble.

Don’t sweat, bro. All can be taken care of.

- How much do you need? - I told Julek. Three hundred.

That much? That must be some serious trouble.

- I’ll pay it back tomorrow. - Tomorrow.

- And where will you get that money? - I’ll think of something.

Quite a daredevil, aren't you?

If you were smart, you wouldn’t have to pay us back at all.

We need a good left winger.

I saw you play. You aren’t bad.

Don’t play dumb, you know what I mean.

The money won’t miraculously fall into your lap.

Say yes, what do you care?

He’s honorable.

Paragon,

better players than you changed teams and nothing happened.

You’ll see, you won’t be complaining.

I thought you’ll lend me the money.

Why should I?

That kind of money isn’t easy to pay back.

So?

Think about it.

You’re either in...

or we say goodbye.

So… goodbye.

You loser! Manjaro won’t coddle you.

What’s it gonna be? I have no time to lose.

You’re either in or you’re out.

I’m in.

Not so fast, buddy.

Not before you sign an application form.

You don’t trust me?

Sure we do. We just want to make it official.

See?

All done.

And don’t forget to come to practice tomorrow.

Out attack will be top notch.

What happened to you? You got lost or something?

Here’s the dosh.

What happened? This couldn’t wait till morning?

I said, I’ll bring it today.

Nothing else to talk about.

- You seem strange, Paragon. - I’m not.

I won’t be the treasurer anymore.

Paragon,

I forgot to tell you. Your mother is in the hospital.

Her tram was in an accident.

You can’t see your mother now.

But don’t worry, it’s nothing serious.

Go home and give everyone the good news.

And?

He’s not here.

I’m telling you, he played a dirty trick on us!

- He’s off the team. - You’d throw everyone out.

- We’ll vote. - I don’t give a hoot about voting.

He transferred to the Hurricane, traitor.

It’s nothing certain yet.

It is. Julek showed me his application form.

Maybe he was just bragging. They’re capable of anything.

I swear to god I saw it.

He didn’t come to practice. That’s your proof.

His mother is in the hospital.

- Here to see Paragon? - No, for a stroll.

It’s a wasted journey. He’s not here.

We’ll see.

See? There must be something to it.

They came for him.

Maybe they’re just trying to poach him.

That brat really isn’t here.

Tell him we won’t be coming here again.

And that I said...

He’d better come to us as soon as possible.

We’re not to be trifled with.

Don’t be scared.

You wanted to steal my kayak?

Man, I just dozed off in it.

Take it, if it’s yours.

Quiet or they’ll see us. You wanted to go to Gdańsk?

Me? To Gdańsk?

What are you talking about, man?

You’re lying. You wanted to go to Gdańsk,

hide on a ship and sail to Java?

What? To Java?

It’s not my kayak. I just had my eye on it.

It’s the best of all the kayaks.

Hey, maybe

we should sail to Java together?

No way! I’m a football player, not a traveller.

I’m the left winger in the Mermaid.

Let’s run!

Did you read this book about the two English boys?

- I didn’t have time. - It’s fantastic!

They ran away from Manchester and went to London.

They hid on a Dutch ship and sailed to Java.

Maybe we should try to run away like them?

No way! You sure read too much

and your head is all messed up.

It’s not London, it’s Warsaw.

I have half a bag of crackers.

That’s cool. You can breed rabbits.

20 tins of food and 120 zloty.

We can go today. No one will notice.

No way! Me?

I have a tournament in three days.

- And I don’t know where Java is. - Thousands of sea miles away.

Look.

First we sail along Vistula to the Baltic Sea.

Then through the North Sea,

Bay of Biscay and to… Java.

You’re rather difficult to talk to.

But don’t worry,

you can trust me like a brother.

- What’s your name? - Mine? Milek.

But the boys call me Ginger Milek.

That’s cool ’cause you’re ginger.

What’s your name?

Mine? Maniek. But boys call me Paragon.

Paragon!

Don’t laugh! Or I'll thump you!

Paragon and that’s that.

If you don’t like it, call me Maniek.

Problem solved.

I like it a lot.

You ran away from home, right?

Not really. I’m just in gigantic trouble.

- What trouble? - You won’t understand.

If it’s gigantic trouble, let’s go to Java.

You mention Java one more time, and I will really thump you!

My trouble is of cosmic proportions.

I have three days to return a huge sum of money.

Why three days?

The tournament starts in three days, get it?

I don’t.

- What will you do now? - If only I knew…

No worries. You can come home with me.

I’ll tell my granddad that you’re a friend.

- You don’t have parents? - No.

We can go.

But your granddad won’t give me 300 zloty.

I have a way.

I already have 120 for the trip.

Keep talking, what you’re waiting for?

Our landlady has a garden.

Fantastic roses and carnations.

She sells them to me for a song, and I resell them at a profit.

I already have 120 zloty.

Quite a venture.

Whose name day is it today?

- I don’t know. - That’s important.

Flowers sell best for Zofia and Maria.

And for Stanisław.

Maybe we’ll be lucky and it’s a popular name day.

How much can you invest?

I told you - 120 zloty.

So what are we waiting for? Let’s go get the flowers!

Will you go to Java with me?

We’ll see.

200, 300.

- You’re scared? - I hope they won’t ask for interest.

Bye.

I’ll take care of it and be right back.

You quit being cross and

decided to show up?

Or do you need more money?

Don’t be scared,

we’ll talk.

Why didn’t you come to practice?

Huh? Talk!

You took the money

and forgot to show up, huh?

Maybe you don’t like our club, do you?

I’m not on any team.

What an honorable brat you are,

for three hundred zloty. But don’t worry,

we’ll win with or without you. What do you want?

I want to pay you back.

Keep it for candies.

You signed the application form, didn’t you?

I did but I want to

withdraw it and…

I won’t be playing for your club!

But you used the money, right?

I don’t want your money.

Stop wiggling, you brat!

When you get back to the Mermaid, they’ll kick your ass so much

that even your own coach won’t recognize you.

I don’t want your money and I’ll never play on your team!

Paragon?

What’s wrong?

Don’t cry! Don’t cry.

Nothing’s wrong.

Now we can sail to Java.

Paragon!

Paragon, help me!

Paragon, help me!

Help me!

See, bro? We’ve reached Java.

Here is that traveller of yours.

He wanted to go to Java.

Oh, Milek, Milek...

I was so ashamed for you.

Grandpa doesn’t treat you right?

He does.

So why did you run away?

It was the fifth time.

The fifth time. I can’t keep him in the house.

He either reads books into the wee hours,

or collects crackers.

Here is an address of a doctor,

take him there

and let them examine him.

Will that help?

Make sure you take him.

Fine. I will.

But will it help?

- Bye, Paragon. - Bye, Milek. Take care.

Come now. Goodbye.

Come to see me. We’ll built a raft.

Fantastic idea. Take care!

Mr Wacek, what was the score?

What kind of trouble did you get into now?

He and his friend took a kayak and wanted to go to Java.

- Good morning. - Did we win?

- Yes. - The score?

- 3:2. - We were on fire!

Why did you swipe the kayak?

It wasn’t about Java at all.

You see,

I didn’t have a choice.

Consider the fact that he was left without any supervision.

He went through a lot.

That’s why I called you.

I can temporarily put him in the orphanage.

I don’t want to, I’m not an orphan.

I have a home! Mr Wacek…

I think it would be best, if you took care of him.

Me?

I’m not married. And I’m working.

Fine. I’ll try.

Dry it, what are you waiting for?

Is it true you’ll be staying here?

I surely will! Why are you so surprised?

I’m not, I’m just asking.

Where did you sleep?

Over there, on an air mattress.

- In the room with Stefanek? - Where else?

I don’t know. In the kitchen?

- What’s he like? - He’s cool.

What do you talk about?

Different things. But mainly about sports. You know…

But yesterday we talked about philosophy.

- You’re telling stories! - Cross my heart and hope to die!

He said: „Don’t be such a philosopher, Paragon!

Get on to some honest work”.

Really cool dude.

- Hi, Paragon. - Hi.

Is it true you’ll be staying with Stefanek?

Can’t you see he already is?

- Where do you sleep? - On the bed of Panjabi Maharaja.

Hi, Paragon! Are you really staying with Stefanek?

Ask me where I sleep and I will thump you.

Good that you came, lads.

We can start a thorough cleaning.

What? Come on!

Sit and drink your tea before it gets cold.

I talked to Mr Łopotek,

and he will let you work at his auto shop.

You’ll work, learn the ropes, earn some money.

Well, you don’t seem thrilled.

Well, I’d rather be selling bottles.

If you want to sell bottles, roam around the city

and sell flowers in cafes, you won’t be staying with me.

If that’s the case…

I’ll work at the auto shop.

Boss! Sir!

- Why are you yelling? - I’ve finished.

- I’m thirsty. - So am I.

Grab the can and get some beer.

Fiddle-faddle. I did not agree to fetch your beer.

Quite a philosopher we have here!

Cheeky bugger?

- Smack him. - Did you get it?

Four lagers and that’s that.

- You’re still here? - Fine, fine.

Just don’t give me orders.

Keep working.

Something with the transmission. Second gear doesn’t catch.

Leave the clunker and it’ll be ready by the evening.

- I have to collect the merchandise. - So don’t bother me.

- I’ll come after seven pm. - We’re not open that late.

Be a man!

My job will be on the line if I don’t get that merchandise.

I’m late for work and you’re fiddling.

- Boss, think of something! - Think of something!

Małek,

leave that for a second.

Will you do this man’s transmission after hours?

An extra 100 in it for you.

Yeah, I can do that.

But it’s different after hours.

Extra 200. I can’t give you more.

Fine.

- I’ll be back at 7pm. - Fine.

- Did you finish? - I did.

Very good. They sent you to get beer?

They would send me to get beer when I was your age.

Get some for me, too.

Two bottles.

Go on.

Sit, sit.

So? Is it done?

- Yes. - Great.

But Mr Durczak, it has to be fifty-fifty.

Did you hear that? He knows how to count. Fifty-fifty!

- I take the biggest risk. - And we don’t?

One forth and not a dime more.

No way, sir. It won’t work.

I was wrong. He doesn’t know how to count.

What’s that haggling for? You’re getting a lot of money.

There’s just no way. I can’t.

One third and we forget the whole thing, okay?

That’s an offer for losers. Fifty-fifty and then I’ll forget.

You’re bleeding me white!

What’s it to be? I have go and get the merchandise.

Fine,

but it has to be clean. No funny business.

Sure thing.

Boss, that guy with the faulty transmission is here.

Sign the receipt first.

- Give it. - I need a stamp.

Where will I get you a stamp?

- But without a stamp… - It’s locked in the closet.

But I can’t leave without a stamp.

Then you’ll have to wait.

Wait and I’ll call the boy.

- Janek! - I almost forgot.

Your extra 200.

Let me look for that stamp.

Didn’t I say there's always a way?

Stop! Stop him! Stop him!

What will I do now?

The whole load! Half a ton of leather!

God dammit!

- Show me the way. - Okay.

- No police? - No.

- Did you see Durczak? - He said to tell you,

to lay low and not to contact him.

The hides are gone. Someone stole them.

What?

I know nothing.

You thief!

Paragon, are you there?

Where else would I be?

I brought you some chow.

Why did you follow Romek? He’s mad at you now.

It’s not worth it to be his enemy.

Did you bring something to drink?

I’m really thirsty.

I’ll try to bring something later.

I’d let you go but Romek says you’ll tell on us.

Tell on you? Me? Let the woodpecker peck me if I do!

I’d let you go if it was up to me.

Guys can’t be saying they lost because Paragon wasn’t there.

If we’re to win with you, it must be fair play.

Do you have the keys?

I have some keys,

but I don’t know if they will work.

But you have to promise that you won’t breath a word of this.

- Don’t you know me at all? - Do you swear?

- Sure thing! - On what?

On whatever you want.

On the club!

It’s not enough.

Fine.

Watch it!

What are you doing?

- I wanted to give him water. - You!

- What did I tell you? - Are you crazy?

Didn’t I tell you not to even try?

And you will remember me, you punk!

I never played the left wing. I can’t kick with my left leg.

Nothing I can do. Paragon’s not here so you have to play.

It’s a disaster. Hurricane’s at full strength and we lack a winger.

Raise your hands and that’s that.

Stop fighting. We’ll win anyway.

Without Paragon?

He’s never there for important games.

Hurricane must have paid him off again.

- You’re accusing him? - I’m not.

Just tell me where he is, that wheeler-dealer.

Don’t call him that. He’s our best friend.

They accused him once before.

Quit struggling grasshopper or I’ll hurt you.

Calm down, boys.

- What’s that about? - I never played the left wing,

and if we lose everyone will blame me.

If you think that, it’ll be better if you don’t play at all.

We’ll put the substitute in.

No, sir. I’ll do my best.

If you play like I saw you play before,

we can win this game.

Did you see Romek?

- Of course. - Merchandise is well hidden?

- Very well, boss. - And that boy, Paragon?

Locked up in a cubby-hole.

Great. It makes your job easier.

- Mr Durczak! - Yes?

It has to be fair play!

They say we won because their team was weakened.

You’ll learn that a game can be won in more ways than one.

Let’s go, boys!

Hey you!

Stop! Don’t run! Wait!

SCORE MERMAID / HURRICANE

This game sucks.

I’m a goalie who has no idea whether the defense exists at all.

And midfielders are asleep.

Run if you’re so smart. You’ll catch pneumonia.

Neither defense nor attack can keep up. They need help.

You play like an old lady and still you criticize.

And you play hide and seek instead of scoring goals.

- Individualist! - Calm down!

You’re whining, even though we haven’t lost yet.

Calm down, boys.

We can still win this thing.

You just have to be less chaotic.

Królewicz and Skumbria must be guarded at all times.

Defenders and strikers must move more to the sides.

And midfielders move behind the first line

to fill the gap in the middle of the field.

Paragon!

- Where have you been? - Hi, Paragon! Where have you been?

Let him go!

Mr Wacek, can I still play?

Where have you been?

Well? Tell us.

I can’t tell you.

But it surely wasn’t a big deal.

What’s going on with you, Paragon?

They saw you yesterday at the auto shop.

- I was there. - What did you do there?

Tell us, what you did there?

I swear, Mr Wacek, I did nothing wrong.

You’ll see.

Oh, Paragon, Paragon.

What are you waiting for?

Change your clothes, half-time is almost over.

Cat got your tongue?

How did you get here?

A good fairy enchanted me and here I am.

- You escaped? - Is that important?

- Is Romek here? - No, but I’m telling you

be careful with him.

You saw how angry he was.

He can’t help them now.

They won’t score anything.

We’ll see! Ciao!

Mermaid! Mermaid!

Score, Hurricane!

Bravo, Perełka!

MERMAID - BRAVO!

Sir, this is all wrong. That boy is our player!

I have his application form here. Just read it.

Leave the field, please.

- You can protest after the game. - What do you mean “protest”?

I have his application form! See?

Get off the field or I’ll stop the game!

What’s it about, gentlemen?

He applied for our team,

and is now playing for Mermaid. Who organized this game?

I never played for Hurricane!

But it’s clearly stated here.

Just read it.

Did you sign it?

I surely did but under duress.

Just a moment. I’m familiar with the matter.

That boy never played for Hurricane.

But he did take 300 zloty for food.

Come closer, please.

Did he ever play for your team?

- He didn’t. - He gave back the money?

- He did. - Julek! Are you crazy!

Mr Durczak, it has to be fair play.

Let Paragon go!

Stop him!

Paragon, move to the center!

Good job, boys!

- Quite a game, huh? - Attack from the sides.

Sure thing!

Take the ball!

Make a wall, guys!

Make a wall!

Guys, a wall! Quick!

Faster! A wall!

More to the right!

Stop!

We’ve been made.

I told you not to contact me.

Gimpy Franek got arrested.

He ratted on the driver.

- When? - They came to me an hour ago.

I would bet it’s because of that Paragon kid.

- He’s locked up. - So who’s playing? His ghost?

Yeah!

Oh yeah, yeah, yeah! Hurricane isn’t so strong anymore!

Paragon, wait, don’t be afraid.

Perełka! Manjaro!

What are you doing, you brat?

Such a boy!

Why did it have to happen to him?

I blame myself for letting him go alone.

He never knew how to stay still,

as I live and breathe.

So...

the police called me and asked me about him.

So I’m telling them

that he is a great boy.

Right?

They caught them all.

Why did he have to get involved? Why?

And why didn’t he say anything?

- He was scared. - Of course he was!

He was scared but he took risks.

Quite a guy!

- Why is this taking so long? - Just wait,

the doctor will come and tell us everything.

He’s my...

He’s my best friend.

What are you doing here, boys?

It’s late. Go home.

- What are you waiting for? - Nurse, will he be all right?

He’s our best friend.

Don’t worry. We’re doing everything we can to save him.

- Doctor… - You’re family?

No. But I’m his temporary guardian.

It’s serious.

His collar bone and forearm are broken.

He’s bruised and in shock.

But he’ll live?

He’ll live, right?

We’re doing all we can. He’s strong. He should be fine.

You can go in for a moment. But just you.

Thank you.

How are you feeling?

Mr Wacek,

I swear,

I didn’t do anything wrong.

I know.

Stay strong, Paragon.

We’re all rooting for you.

And the game? The finale against Polonia?

Don’t think about the game now.

We have to win.

We’ll do our best.

I’d so want to play as the left winger.

I’d like you to play, too.

You played beautifully today. That score…

We have to win, Mr Wacek.

We’ll do our best.

You have to go.

He is very tired.

Be strong, Paragon.

Sure thing.

Good luck, Polonia!

Good luck, Mermaid!

The final game of the tournament is about to start!

The referee whistles. The game starts.

Two best teams, Polonia and Mermaid,

have the honor of playing on this great stadium.

We can’t expect the beginning of the game to be fascinating.

Young players are nervous. It’s their first time on a real stadium.

And with so many fans.

Polonia’s left winger attacks.

Polonia still has hold of the ball.

They’re about to shoot. And they do!

Mermaid’s goalie does his job. Polonia still has the ball.

They shoot, and they almost make it.

A dangerous situation, could have ended with a goal.

Mermaid moves to attack.

Players change their positions on the field.

Beautiful play on a wing.

- Shoot, what are you waiting for? - Shoot!

Faster! Yes! He passes the ball but it’s too late.

Polonia’s goalie ran out and changed the game.

I have to admit, that Mermaid players

seem to really want to win.

They’re giving it all they’ve got.

Polonia is on the attack.

Players pass the ball

between each other. Now to the wingers.

They keep the ball, and kick it

to the penalty box.

It’s just the player and the goalie. He shoots!

- A beautiful defense! - Bravo, Perełka!

He’s a great goalie! And my best friend.

They keep you on your toes.

Just wait. We have to warm up.

Czekalski passes the ball, to Słonecki.

Słonecki to the other side to Czekalski.

Czekalski runs, he’s in the penalty box.

Cross to Słonecki. Słonecki shoots! Goal!

Yes! See? I told you.

Mermaid leads 1:0.

What’s going on here? What are you doing?

We lead 1:0!

Great, but now it’s time for your shot.

Now?

Nurse, I have a game.

Nothing I can do. You need that shot.

People won’t be waiting for you.

I’d rather die.

Paragon,

you’ve done enough today.

- Quickly, I don’t have time. - Take this with you.

Mermaid has the ball, they’re in the centre of the field.

Czekalski backs up and passes the ball.

- Paragon, lie down. - Just a minute, nurse.

- It’s the most interesting moment. - I don’t have time.

He closes on the penalty line, and passes the ball.

Słonecki takes over the ball. in the penalty area…

He shoots and… scores!

- A goal! - Two to nothing.

The second half of the game has started.

Mermaid leads 2:0.

Polonia attacks.

Their best sweeper has the ball.

He passes it on to Murawski.

Left back tries to take over. They close up on the penalty line.

Turmoil by the goalposts.

Referee rules. Foul shot against Mermaid.

And it will be shot by...

Kotarba, Polonia’s best striker.

A dangerous situation

Mermaid forms a wall.

Kotarba is on the move. He passes the ball to Olczyk,

he shoots and… goal!

2:1.

Palookas, all of them!

Couldn’t they watch him?

It couldn’t have been saved!

Watch Kotarba! Get on him! Don’t let him shoot!

I’d tell them, if I was there.

Don’t be a fanatic, Paragon.

They can play.

Paradowski keeps the ball, he leads,

a few more meters, and he passes to Słonecki.

Słonecki receives it. Moves towards the goal.

Stop that. You’ll break my radio.

The battery must be dead.

Don’t you have an extra one?

I don’t.

Such bad luck.

And at such a moment.

Mermaid players seem weaker, Polonia has the upper hand now.

Kotarba leads the ball beautifully.

He’ll make a great player. He passes the ball.

Mrugalski on the sideline, moves to the centre…

I have a fever, gentlemen. If I die, it’s because

of my friends. They let themselves be tricked.

- Don’t sleep, guys, play! - Be strong, boys!

Corner kick for Mermaid.

Tym is at the ball, a commotions, goalie runs out,

runs past the ball, Tym shoots,

but too high.

What’s happening? They can’t shoot to an empty goal?

They still can.

Play moves to the center of the field

Gaj has the ball, moves towards the goal.

Mrugalski takes over, leads the ball beautifully,

few more meters Midfielder on his right,

he should pass the ball. And he does.

Midfielder to Kotarba, he’s at the penalty line and… Goal!

It’s 2:2!

Holly cow. It’s a tie.

Game is about to end, play becomes chaotic.

Players are tired.

Polonia attacks.

Kotarba has the ball. Closes on the goal and shoots!

A great defense by the Mermaid’s goalie.

Ball flies into the field.

They play in the middle.

The referee ends the game.

Tie 2:2. Ten minutes overtime.

We can’t comment on it for you. Our time’s up.

We’ll try to give you the score at the next news section.

- That’s all for now. - At the most important moment!

I can feel my fever growing.

2:2, and they were in the lead.

What a fiasco.

It’s 3 pm.

The news isn’t until 4.

Should we call Sports Magazine?

They should know.

You’re completely crazy

to worry about such nonsense.

You know nothing about sports.

Does anyone have some change?

- I’ll make a call. - Who do you think won?

Polonia. You heard what was going on.

Perełka!

We won! Bravo! We won!

- What’s the score? - 3:2.

- Who shot the last one? - I did.

What’s going on here?

We won! We won the trophy!

Congratulations. And now, Paragon, get back to bed.

On such a day, nurse? On such a day?

- Hi, Milek. - Paragon! You’re going to school?

It’s as good a place as any. And you?

I thought you’re already in Madagascar.

Not this time.

They caught up with me.

Paragon, come. We’ll be late.

Paragon, I have a great idea.

I don’t have time, man.

Can’t you see I’m off to school?

We’ll hide on a plane from Warsaw to Cairo, get it?

And then…

That’s a swell idea but I don’t have time.

I’m serious about school.

The kayak didn’t work but by plane

we’ll be in Egypt in a few hours. Get it?

It’s all very well but you can’t

take your bag of crackers on the plane.

- When are we leaving? - After the eighth grade.

Take care!

Remember… Paragon!

The End

Translated by: Emilia Puszczyńska