Original subtitles

Janek!

Here I am, Baron von Essenbeck.

Get to it.

Come on, rub hard.

Have they all arrived?

Not all of them, sir.

Who's missing?

Mr. Bruckmann and Lieut. Aschenbach who are coming from Oberhausen.

And the old man? Baron Joachim?

Come on! Speak!

The baron is in his apartment.

He's getting ready for dinner, like everyone else.

What about my son?

Can't you hear him?

Gunther? Gunther?

What do you want, Thilde?

Come!

Come and see.

What?

Look!

It's the same as last year, Thilde.

Yes, but then I was a spectator, this year it's different.

I hope I don't forget my lines.

It'll be a great debut. Tomorrow, your name will be in the papers.

That's fine. Thank you.

With all these compromises we'll lose even our chairs.

Yes, dear.

I'm nearly ready.

You know Uncle Joachim insists on punctuality, especially tonight.

Will you give me a hand?

Darling, if you won't stay still...

Thanks. One can't always say yes. They're not reasonable people.

They're never satisfied.

Uncle Joachim's been at the helm over 40 years... ensuring balance.

Balance is the right word.

A courtesy to the Liberals, another to the National Socialists.

A favour to me, one to Konstantin.

You're unfair. Uncle's never had any time for that fellow.

Because he's a snob. If Hitler were not the son of a maid...

...he would have sided with him.

But he's always listened to you and has never financed the Nazis.

Only because he's too mean.

What about the girls?

They're going to surprise everyone.

They must be very nervous.

Let's go.

Thank you.

Come on, Herbert.

...a blessing too that will make this birthday happy

and the year just right for you.

On this special night I'll sing these words to let you see...

...having you for a grandfather is a joy and blessing for me.

Happy birthday, Grandpa.

Thank you. Come here.

Very best wishes for your birthday.

Let me give you a kiss. Thank you.

And thank you, Sweetheart. My little Erika.

Happy birthday, sir.

Janek!

Do you hear the two of them?

Yes.

Since birth, she's been told she's the most intelligent, the richest,

the most enviable. She's Baroness Von Essenbeck.

Can I ask her to become plain Mrs Bruckmann?

The wife of an executive of the factories that carry her name?

You're too hard on yourself. Uncle Joachim trusts you... No-one makes

decisions without your approval.

Isn't that already something?

Yes, but not enough for Sophie.

It's true I've gone up the ladder, but I'm still an employee of hers.

If we decided to marry, I'd lose the baron's trust and friendship.

He wants Sophie to stay the inconsolable widow of his son.

Idiot!

He'd probably fire me.

You're wrong. Today, not even he with his slaves, his millions...

...his castles is powerful enough to exclude you. Power's in our hands.

And we want you where you are.

Or higher up the ladder.

Am I to steal Herbert's job?

The fact Herbert has to go is an open secret.

His hostility towards Nazism is extremely evident.

But Konstantin...

Do you think he's so important?

He's in the SA.

He's very close to Rohm.

Our industry needs men like you.

And our chancellor has a soft spot for large industries.

Anyhow, I wasn't talking about Konstantin.

...having you for a grandfather is a joy and blessing for me...

Do you think they'll do an encore?

More than one. But don't dare ask them!

Well, I'll have to do without.

You were very good, Thilde. Sit here with me. Again, thank you.

The governess was good too. Thanks!

Very good.

You're setting yourself limits.

You're not ambitious, just a social climber. Sophie wouldn't approve.

You worry about Herbert and Konstantin, but there's someone...

...more important: Joachim.

Today, in Germany, anything can happen and we've barely started.

Private morality is dead. We the elect can do as we please.

They're Hitler's words. You too should think them over.

Tonight, for example.

Well done, Gunther. You played splendidly. Thank you.

I know you couldn't care less but your son has a talent for music.

Good evening.

- Good evening - - Good evening -

Excuse me. I'm wanted on the phone.

Spring arrives, the sparrow sings, I'm in love, but with whom?

I don't care whether he's rich because love is enough for me.

Guys, this evening I'm going to choose myself a real man.

Guys, I'm fed up with boys. I want a real man.

A man with a burning heart and fire lighting up his eyes.

A man who can and still wants to kiss. A real man.

There are men who are thin, fat, big, small and stout.

Handsome, elegant, shy or bold.

His face is not important, I'll choose one anyway.

Guys, this evening I'm going to choose myself a real man.

Guys, I'm fed up with boys, I want a real man.

Quiet, please!

The Reichstag is on fire.

A man with a burning heart and fire lighting up his eyes.

Quiet, please! I said, quiet!

The fire started half an hour ago.

It's a conspiracy, but the person responsible has been arrested.

A Dutchman enrolled in the Communist party.

A Communist, of course.

Another Communist crime against the new government.

Shit!

Couldn't they choose another day to burn down the Reichstag?

They spoiled your birthday.

It was my headquarters in Berlin.

They haven't put out the fire yet.

And the Berliners are enjoying the show from their balconies.

I can't stay here. Maybe the SA have been called back to barracks.

Calm down, Konstantin, the coup d'e'tat has failed.

Up till now, your battle station has never been Berlin.

If they've already found the conspirators, it means...

The conspiracy's only a pretext.

That's an arbitrary statement.

Herbert's statements are always arbitrary.

It's a provocation that can come only from anti-government sources.

Your chancellor has no use for government.

Herbert, please!

Everyone knows about the proscription lists.

They're used to crush opponents while Europe looks on.

Europe isn't interested in law and order inside Germany.

Law and order that allows the killing of people in their homes?

Herbert, please!

Goering has sworn revenge against the enemies of the Third Reich.

You're losing your head, Herbert.

Goering was referring to Communists. Are you one of them?

Today, it's their turn. Tomorrow?

Don't worry about tomorrow. Someone in Berlin is taking care of things.

Well said, cousin Sophie.

Our only worry should be celebrating Uncle's birthday.

Even if this is an evening out of the ordinary.

No, no, Martin, no.

I've been wanting to make the following speech for a long time.

The dramatic events that have taken place in the last few hours...

...force me to overcome any hesitation and uncertainty...

...and speak to you clearly.

In all these years, I've had one aim only.

To uphold the unity and prestige of our firm.

That's why I have acted so that our work and our structures...

...could adapt each time to changing circumstances.

In war time, in peace time and in the following crisis.

Now, in the light of recent dramatic events...

...I feel it more necessary than ever to protect our steelworks...

...from any possible political pressure.

Or even more serious risks.

You must acknowledge that I have never backed the present regime.

And as you all know, I have never had...

...nor wish to have any contact with a certain gentleman.

Despite this, in the interests of the firm, we must...

...keep up daily contact with those people.

That's why I feel it's essential to have at my side a man...

...accepted by the regime... who can guarantee for us...

I'm ready to give notice, if that's what you want.

I'm forced to do this, Herbert with regret and without conviction.

But the steelworks...

Come first, right or wrong. That's your creed.

You even sent your son to his death to be able to say that the...

...Essenbecks bring into the world and bury cannons and offspring...

...with the same feeling.

Excuse me...

Congratulations, Konstantin. You'll be the vice-chairman we deserve.

Let's go, Herbert, please.

I hope I don't follow in the footsteps of my predecessor.

Right, Friedrich?

Guys, this evening I'm going to choose myself a real man.

Guys, I'm fed up with boys, I want a real man.

Aschenbach would stab me in the back if he stood to gain from it.

But not this time. He's on our side, Sophie.

Herbert's right. It was they who burned down the Reichstag.

I'm sure Aschenbach already knew what was going to happen.

He talked of us two, of Joachim, the steelworks.

But in actual fact, he was telling me something quite different.

That tonight, I'd be given an extraordinary opportunity...

...I could either take or leave.

To side with them or oppose them.

Don't you see, Sophie?

They can't have put Joachim on the proscription lists.

Herbert, perhaps. Probably, Herbert.

Tonight, great things will happen.

The losers will be those who stay on the sidelines. It's as if...

...they'd offered me a position of trust and if I accept, I seize...

...the opportunity, I'll have their help in exchange.

And there'll be no more Herberts.

Or Konstantins, or Joachims.

I'll be the only one in charge.

I'll make all the decisions...

...with you at my side, Sophie.

So, what have you decided to do?

It'd be the first time I made a decision without consulting you.

I'll help you, even though I can never push you hard enough.

Stay the course to the bitter end!

None of them is worth half of you.

You were right to always say yes, but now you have to make them pay.

Herbert has always pushed you aside and Joachim...

...has humiliated you, but Konstantin is the worst of the lot.

Don't be afraid, Friedrich.

I'm not afraid.

There's just one thing.

Keep your son happy...

...so I can do what I must.

I'll take care of Martin.

I know exactly what he likes.

He has no sense of value.

The steelworks or a new Rolls are worth the same to him.

We'll throw him the bait. Leave it up to me.

Boo!

I won!

Where's Erika?

Come out, Erika! We've won.

Erika where are you?

Here I am.

There you are, you little slyboots! Come! Now it's your turn.

Put you hands over your eyes and count to 100 out loud.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14...

Erika, come!

Pour yourself a drink. This discussion's over. Go on!

I don't want to leave school.

You'll leave that filthy den. I'll drag you out if necessary.

And I'll pull you with me into the steelworks. I guarantee...

...that in ten years, you'll take over and throw me out.

I'll smash your cello over your head if you don't understand this.

You're just like your mother, with the same delicate stomach.

She's never wanted to set foot in the factory.

The heat from the furnaces makes her dizzy.

Listen, Father, I've decided...

Only I can decide for you.

I know you can't stand me.

But I'm not asking you to love me. On the contrary.

It's just that I don't intend to keep the seat warm for Friedrich...

...and much less for Martin.

I'd rather nail you to that seat when the time comes.

Those bastards have poisoned your brain, but as for your school...

...we'll smash it to pieces with all your damned books inside.

Gunther!

Erika!

Don't let her hear you. Do you want her to find us straight away?

Come in.

Gunther?

Come in.

Yes? Very well.

As I thought, before daybreak Herbert will be arrested.

Poor Herbert! To think we're so near the border.

Is there a specific accusation? So, he'll be tried.

I don't think such formalities are necessary.

We're concerned only with substance.

And the substance here is this.

Before the flames consuming the Reichstag are put out...

...the champions of the old Germany will be reduced to ashes.

However, a semblance of legality may be useful...

...at times.

I'm tired and would like to retire.

Sophie...

Friedrich...

If you need me...

But sneaking away like thieves...

We're not the only ones, Elisabeth.

Every day people have to leave home all over Europe.

We're lucky. At least we have a place to go to.

We have friends.

How soon will we have to leave?

As soon as we've packed and handed over to others in the factory.

It's all over, Gunther.

And it's the fault of all of us, mine too.

There's no point in raising your voice when it's too late.

We've given Germany a sick democracy.

The fear of a revolution that would have put us in the hands...

...of the Left was too strong. Now it's too late to do anything.

Nazism was created by us, it started in our factories.

It was fed with our money.

You think I shouldn't escape.

Maybe you feel contempt for me.

No, Uncle Herbert. I...

We'll keep in touch, all right?

Yes.

Still up, Erika? What's going on?

- Where's Thilde? - - I don't know.

Thilde? Where's she gone?

- Do you know? - - No.

You must go to bed straight away. It's very late. Thilde?

Herbert, they've come for you. There's no time to lose.

Elizabeth!

No, no!

You must escape, hurry!

You'd be crazy to take it with you. I'll get rid of it. Now, go!

Please, Herbert, hurry!

Look after the girls.

Hurry, my love! Go, go!

Herbert, no, no, this way!

Open up! Open up!

Do you too recognise this gun?

Yes.

The weapon is recognised as belonging to Herbert Thallman.

Are we to continue the inquiry?

The magistrate will take over.

Mr. Thallman took compromising documents away with him.

Paperwork regarding the activities of the steelworks that he can use.

Not in any concrete way.

Write: "To the Public Prosecutor...

...18th February, 1933.

Re: accusation of Herbert Thallman fugitive from justice...

...for the 2nd degree murder of Baron Joachim Von Essenbeck."

I know what you're feeling, Martin.

But one can't take on from one day to the next...

...a role of such huge responsibility...

...without feeling a sense of...

...consternation. But Friedrich and I won't leave you on your own.

We were just saying you'll have time to complete your studies.

And to familiarise yourself with problems concerning the firm.

They aren't simple, believe me.

Meanwhile, Friedrich and I will keep the place going...

...as always in the past.

I never expected to become chairman of the steelworks...

...in such tragic circumstances.

But unfortunately, I'm forced to do what...

Grandfather was right.

Nowadays, our firm...

I mean either we have government approval or our business...

...our profits...

I know nothing of business or politics, but one thing I do know.

That ours is a special kind of production.

That there are technical problems.

Bravo! Well done!

A fine speech from the Throne!

But now, let's not overdo it.

Let's give this meeting more of a family tone.

Joachim's intentions...

Please, Konstantin.

Martin hasn't finished. He has something else to say.

Well, let's hear it.

I want to respect Grandfather's wishes in every way.

He named you vice-chairman and was right to do so.

But at a time like this...

...the chairman should be . Above all a technician.

What kind of a joke is this?

It's no joke; enormous sums are involved here:

And Martin thinks...

It's the first time Martin has thought with his own head.

I inherit the majority of the shares so the decision is mine.

I name Friedrich Bruckmann chairman of the board...

...and managing director of the Essenbeck Steelworks

And of every other company in partnership with the firm.

Friedrich Bruckmann I made you what you are from the nobody you were.

Herbert's pistol, Aschenbach's testimony...

...the arrival of the SS.

Perfect.

You have too much imagination.

You, come with me.

Today you've learned something they don't teach at school.

Come on.

Don't get your hopes up. This war has just started.

Gunther, get a move on!

To the first model.

Hoping to hear its music soon.

Will this reception last long?

Your place is here, Martin, you can't leave.

Fine, as you wish.

Mr. Bruckmann, you are certainly aware...

I met your father on the French front in 1916.

A true Essenbeck and a heroic officer.

I know.

The Chiefs of Staff are adamant. Either Rohm goes or we do.

It's blackmail. The SA represent a real threat.

Therefore we must prevent heavy artillery ending up in their hands.

Is this your personal opinion?

It's that of the Chiefs of Staff...

And especially of the Chancellor, if you don't mind my saying so.

The army is the army, the SA are the SA.

We're not involved in law and order but don't want to share...

...our institutional duties.

Institutional duties?

Where were the Prussian generals while we were cleaning up Germany?

This country will never be clean enough until...

No doubt about the SA's merits.

We wouldn't be here if it weren't for the work of the SA.

Anyhow, heavy artillery isn't need to maintain law and order.

Just look around you.

Germany is the most orderly country in the world; American and English

...tourists love coming here.

What more do we want?

So we all agree.

Not one piece of heavy artillery will leave this factory...

...unless requested by the Chiefs of Staff.

Elections are coming up and we must win them...

...if we want them to be the last.

But it will take a lot of money.

The Essenbeck steelworks is behind.

Joachim, with his stubbornness, brought about this situation.

All the other industrialists have paid their quota, while you...

You can't allocate such large sums without cooking the books.

This is a joint stock company.

And Konstantin could, in time, become a problem

What I say is problems must always be solved.

Don't you agree?

The state must crush even an innocent flower if it's in the way.

I'm not the state.

I did what I was asked, but don't want to be involved any more.

Don't always take me literally. They're Hegel's words, not mine.

He'd turn in his grave if he knew we were comparing...

...Konstantin to an innocent flower.

Do you mind if I...? It's getting late.

Yes, do go Martin.

Thank you. Goodbye.

You'll have to answer for whatever happens here, and don't forget it.

Hermannstrasse. Hurry!

The young lady has gone out.

Yes, I know. Thank you.

...Germany, followed by hundreds of Berlin party flags.

One after the other, the flags are taken out of the sports complex...

...and are carried around the town all night.

People all around, at the front and the sides, great maxims for Germany.

Thomas and Heinrich Mann...

Walter Rathenau...

Erich Maria Remarque...

Arnold and Stefan Zweig...

Andre' Gide...

Helen Keller...

Margaret Sanger...

Jack London...

George Bernard Shaw...

Emile Zola...

Marcel Proust.

Come on in.

I had to read it. I'm sorry.

I'm forced to do these things.

This comes from abroad.

Herbert Thallman is my uncle.

It's absurd that I can't receive...

If your uncle had any common sense, he wouldn't write to you here.

Where's he supposed to write to me?

It's a plea for help. That's clear.

I don't want to know anything about it, nor do I wish to discuss it.

I only want to avoid your dragging my school into this affair.

In any case, I refuse to believe what your uncle has written.

May I go, sir?

You may, and get your hair cut Von Essenbeck.

Yes, sir.

Yes, it's all here: application for renewal, fee, revenue stamp.

Reason for the trip?

A vacation.

Are you going alone, Mrs Thallman?

With my daughters.

Thilde who's eleven. Erika who's eight, is that correct?

Yes.

Do you plan to join your husband?

No.

No? You don't know where he is?

Would you like us to tell you?

I don't see what the difficulty is. I just want to leave.

Has someone caused you difficulty?

No, not really.

Are you aware your husband is accused of murder?

It's absurd. It's slander.

Then convince him to come back so he can prove his innocence.

I don't know where he is. Why involve me and the girls? Are we suspects?

We just want to leave.

Are you being forced to leave?

No, they're preventing me from...

Who's preventing you, Mrs...?

Elisabeth Thallman.

Are you trying to imply something?

Answer, don't be afraid.

Good morning.

Your girlfriend isn't in. She said she'd be back very late.

I heard you.

...wearing a purple cloak.

Who's the little man all alone in the wood?

With the purple cloak?

The little man is standing in the wood on one leg.

On his head, he has a little red hat.

Lisa, look what I've brought you.

A lovely little horse to play with. Do you like him?

Yes I do, thank you.

You can stroke him. Go on, Lisa. He's all yours. Do you like him?

Do you like him?

You must be nice to him. You must love him a lot.

Because he loves you.

Lisa? Lisa?

Why won't you answer?

Now, I'll show you.

Stop crying.

All you do is waste time.

You spend the whole day playing.

It's no good crying, you know?

Will you never learn?

I told you to tidy up. Look at this mess.

You must obey me, you understand?

Get moving!

And stop crying. Start working. Do something.

Martin.

Martin?

It's you!

I didn't expect to find you here.

What time is it?

It's late. It's two o'clock.

Two o'clock?

I'm dead tired. I had to work till late.

Help me, I beg you.

I know you're all stronger than me and can stop me from leaving.

But I don't see the point of it.

Are you really afraid of Herbert?

Previously maybe, but now his papers are worth nothing.

Germany can do what it wants.

You too are doing what you want and nobody in Europe lifts a finger.

So why keep us here?

Because one day we could remember.

And say what we know about you and all the others.

Do you think that day will come?

No, it'll never come.

Herbert's still fooling himself but I'm not. And you never believed us.

So why keep us here?

My presence should be unbearable because it forces you to remember.

But I too want to forget. Let us leave, Sophie.

A word from you is enough.

Go! Leave, if that's what you want.

But don't fool yourself.

When you come back you won't find the Germany you're so fond of.

That Germany has gone forever. You'll only find this one.

You won't be able to escape it.

Soon, it will spread all over Europe and beyond.

Lieutenant Aschenbach.

Baroness Von Essenbeck.

Lisa, come here.

Come!

Look!

Do you like it?

Why were you crying the other day? I heard you, you know?

Were they hitting you? Your mother?

Does she often smack your bottom?

Why?

That's enough, Martin.

Stop, Darling, I have to leave.

Where are you going?

I'm posing for some photographs.

Do you pose in the nude?

Yes, of course. You know that.

Stay a little longer.

I can't. I'm late.

Anyhow, haven't you had enough?

I already told you I have to leave.

Stop it! That's enough!

Where's my damned dress?

Stop, please.

Stop. Let me go, Martin.

If you want to make yourself useful, tidy this room.

Look what a mess you've made.

And that little idiot is ill.

Who?

Lisa. I have to pay for her doctor.

What's wrong with her?

It's not clear. She had a fever. Last night she was delirious.

I'll never make it in time.

Martin, what's the matter now?

Why don't you do as I said? Look what a mess!

Now, I really must go.

Lock the door when you leave.

Bye-bye.

Lisa?

Lisa?

Try to come and see us.

Of course.

I'll write as soon as I arrive.

Promise me you'll come and see us.

I promise.

We'll miss you.

You'll always be welcome. Herbert and I will be happy to have you.

Thank you.

If you knew how excited the girls are, and I more than them.

Give him my regards.

What's happening? Why are you here?

What do you want from me?

I know nothing.

What do you want?

He's filled your house with gifts.

Valuable stuff.

I know nothing. What can I say?

When I found out it was Baron Von Essenbeck, I called you.

Otherwise, I wouldn't have dared.

I haven't forgotten what you did for me.

There's no formal report. Only the relatives' statements.

And a name said by the victim.

By the little girl. Nothing else.

However, the baron was stopped while leaving a club.

One of those special clubs in Graffenstrasse.

I'll take care of everything.

Bring her with you.

I'm not coming to the police.

I haven't done anything. I don't want to come.

Leave me alone! No!

Read this.

It's incredible.

But what does it mean?

That's what I'm wondering too.

What can have prompted Martin to take such an initiative?

He's called an extraordinary meeting of the Board of Directors.

He's the major shareholder.

It's within his rights.

What can he want from the Board?

We'll soon find out.

- Any idea where he is? - - No. -

I've looked for him everywhere. He's nowhere to be found.

He was last seen in a bar in Dusseldorf, three days ago.

Since then-no trace of him.

We must find him. We'll turn Germany upside down if necessary.

But the chairman...

The chairman's not here! In his absence, you'll do as I say.

But we have precise orders.

I assume all responsibility.

The whole shipment is to be diverted to Stuttgart.

And delivered to the SA. Is that understood?

Hello?

What's happening, Friedrich?

Stay calm, please.

We'll find him. Half the town is looking for him.

Try calling Aschenbach again.

- It's too soon. - - It's already 3 am. Try! -

Lieutenant Aschenbach. It's urgent.

Friedrich!

Hello, this is Friedrich Bruckmann from Kleisburg castle.

Yes, thank you, I'll hold on.

Martin!

What are you afraid of? Answer me!

Why is Konstantin keeping you here? What does he want from you?

Konstantin...

What's happened? What've you done?

I'm scared. I'm in his clutches.

No. No.

No, I'll help you.

But I have to know everything to be able to help you. Tell me!

Martin! Martin!

Speak. Was it he who made you write that letter?

No, no!

Did he force you to write it?

No!

Don't worry, Martin.

Your mother will protect you.

The time has come to crush the innocent flower.

Because it's in the way.

I'd already put a similar eventuality to Friedrich.

But he hasn't yet grasped the sense of the Hegelian system.

When is the Board to meet?

In a month, as per company rules.

What will the procedure be?

It's simple. Konstantin will ask to verify the distribution of power.

There'll be a vote and Martin will withdraw his support for Friedrich.

And will give it to Konstantin.

But how did Konstantin manage to blackmail Martin?

Konstantin is in the SA, he has friends in the Gestapo and police.

Another connection to be severed.

But soon, Martin's file will pass into more important hands.

Come.

This is the most complete archive that ever existed.

There's everything on private Germany here. Nothing's missing.

There's even your affair with Friedrich. Did you imagine that?

It's not hard to get into people's private lives.

Every German citizen is potentially an informer.

Our people's collective instinct is based on complicity.

Isn't this the true miracle of the Third Reich?

If you like, let's read Konstantin's future together.

If he has one.

He'll always have a future while he has powerful friends.

I wouldn't be so pessimistic.

The SA were useful to us in conquering Germany.

To conquer the world, we need the army.

Which doesn't want the SA around. It's us or them, say the generals.

Can you see the Chancellor disappointing our brave generals?

Do you think Hitler's willing to push Rohm aside?

Push him aside? It'd be too little and too risky.

Some jobs can't be done by halves.

If Konstantin is also an enemy of yours, for you it would be easy.

No, Sophie, it's not like that.

It's kind of you to try to save Friedrich that task.

But our agreement is clear.

We must share also the disadvantages of our alliance.

Friedrich will do his duty.

But I'd like him to be spared such problems in the future.

Exactly what do you mean?

Help us to give the company a sole owner.

Friedrich isn't an Essenbeck but nothing is impossible in Germany.

A simple decree could give Friedrich the name Essenbeck.

Aren't you asking too much?

You too are very demanding.

You know there's still hostility hindering our marriage.

Your affair is a beautiful love story.

An exemplary story.

But I don't see what it has to do with the life of the Third Reich.

It isn't only a love story.

To make war you need cannons.

And you won't have enough... ...without the Essenbeck steelworks.

In this negotiation I have no fewer bargaining chips than you.

How come you're suddenly so miserly with your concessions?

The answer is simple.

For every situation of power...

...there must be an alternative even if only a hypothetical one.

It's the first rule of governing.

Yes, I know. I understand.

I don't think it's correct to put everything in Friedrich's hands.

Including what belongs to Martin.

He's your son, Sophie.

Do you need reminding?

I can't believe it's possible? When?

Soon, Friedrich.

Sooner than you think.

What about Aschenbach?

He seems to be against it, but what does that matter?

He'll find himself presented with a fait accompli. You're much more...

...important than him, now.

Aschenbach produces words, you produce cannons.

This is a fact that counts, especially at the chancellery.

The decree, Friedrich. Imagine!

Friedrich Von Essenbeck.

Power! It's either all or nothing.

Have you forgotten that?

And soon we'll marry, Friedrich.

You and me together, all the way.

And Martin.

Martin's never been a problem.

Konstantin isn't a problem either?

You have to do it.

It's up to you.

Oh, God!

I'm not afraid. It's not that.

I'm not afraid.

Joachim, Konstantin...

Who'll be next?

I'm now bound forever.

I know I'll end up in Aschenbach's clutches for the rest of my life.

When you're at the top, not even Aschenbach will have a hold on you.

Oh, my God, I've accepted a ruthless logic.

And I can never break free from it.

Oh, Sophie!

When?

Aschenbach will say where and when.

This is the first time since Munich

that I've come back to Wiessee.

They were difficult times.

Thinking of Munich, I remember...

...a Putsch, a whore and a cell crawling with lice.

Me too. Maybe they were the same.

Aim!

Fire!

Von Schleicher's the only one nothing happened to.

Tomorrow, they'd be capable of...

...hanging even the chancellor.

It'd be a wonderful idea. He's been getting on my nerves.

Heil! Heil!

Hagen is the boss.

He comes by car. Lucky man!

Heil! Heil!

Quiet!

The SA march with steady steps.

Our comrades killed by the opposition...

...march with us in spirit among our ranks.

Our comrades killed by the opposition...

...march with us in spirit among our ranks.

Make way along the streets for the battalions of brown shirts.

Make way along the streets for the Sturmabteilungsmann.

Already millions of people look to the swastika with hope.

The day of the fight for liberty is near.

Drink up, brother, drink up.

Drink up brother, drink up.

My dear, where can I find tears to cry?

Oh, Roderich, with everything you and I are looking forward to...

...don't banish me from this place.

Rohm would be stupid to let Hitler get the better of him.

That won't happen. They're soul mates those two. Didn't you know?

But if he keeps on obstructing us, he'll come to a sticky end.

And to think it was we who made him what he is.

And now he wants to get rid of us to impress the Wehrmacht.

It's just a rumour. How much longer will this holiday last?

We'll stay here till those two have come to an agreement.

And if they don't?

Then we'll start shooting.

Now, will you come back inside?

You're missing the best part.

...just before the great victory.

We've broken the bonds of slavery.

It was a great victory.

We'll continue to march...

...while everything is crumbling.

Because today, Germany is ours.

Tomorrow, we'll conquer the world.

We'll continue to march...

...while everything is crumbling.

And even if the whole world...

...is destroyed by the battles...

...we couldn't care less...

...because we'll build it up again.

We'll continue to march...

...while everything is crumbling.

Because today, Germany is ours.

Tomorrow, we'll conquer the world.

We'll continue to march... ...while everything is crumbling.

Because today, Germany is ours.

Tomorrow, we'll conquer the world.

In your rooms, boys!

When he decided to open his eyes...

you see, friends...

...or don't you see...

how the lights are shining...

even brighter than before?

Don't you see?

Don't you see?

Don't you see?

- The usual way? ...I'll go down. -

They're all dead. Come on!

...but... but it's,,,

I knew immediately what he'd do.

I don't know why, but I sensed it.

I didn't move.

I didn't try to stop him.

I stayed in Olga's room incapable of moving a finger.

The house was completely silent.

And I stayed there waiting...

Calm down, now.

I'm not here to blackmail you.

Konstantin tried, but it certainly didn't bring him luck.

As if I'd cause trouble for you the only true Essenbeck.

Just because a Jewish child...

...decided to hang herself.

You didn't know she was Jewish?

According to a new law, what you did wasn't a crime.

On the contrary. But it's too little to say we're friends, allies.

Allies?

Of course, if you like.

I thought you and Friedrich...

I thought so too, till today.

But he thinks he's irreplaceable.

And he's wrong.

Only one who's resigned to suddenly losing our backing...

...is a trusted friend of ours.

But he who wants to be master of all, even of himself...

...he who fools himself thinking he can make decisions alone...

...think independently...

...is not a friend of ours.

You don't make this kind of claim, do you Martin?

Isn't it too late?

That decree...

Certainly, that piece of paper has enormous value.

As long as the holder can enjoy the advantages it provides.

They plan to use Nazism to satisfy their ambitions.

But they don't even know what it is.

But I've been pushed aside.

Friedrich can name his direct successor.

As far as I know, Friedrich has no children, yet.

While your mother has one.

That's you, Martin.

It would be so easy.

But if you're afraid...

I'm not afraid.

I've been waiting for years.

I don't mean are you afraid of Friedrich but of your mother.

I'd do anything to rob her of her self-assuredness.

Her strength, her power.

She's always pushed me to one side.

She's always tried to humiliate me.

She never realised I loved her.

And that I needed her.

Now I feel nothing but hatred.

I hate her.

I want to see her weak, ruined and alone.

Please help me, I beg you.

I'll do whatever you want.

Even at the cost of...

All right.

I'll help you.

We'll give her no respite.

Why don't you pay attention?

Friedrich has something to say.

I bet he wants to announce the date of the wedding.

I'll try not to miss it.

You won't miss it, Martin.

Neither will the others.

You mean the few left?

I took on full responsibility not only for the steelworks...

...but also for the family.

So I want to see an end to the habit of taking certain liberties.

You don't intend to include me among those you control, do you?

I'm only a guest.

No, dear cousin, I wouldn't dare.

But if you'll be patient...

Excuse me.

Gunther! I haven't finished.

These problems don't concern me.

They concern you too because you live in this house.

I didn't ask to remain here and I shan't be staying much longer.

Go back to your place! That's an order!

It's time to speak openly.

Not one of you came to the inauguration of the...

...new factories.

You failed to fulfil a precise family duty.

Your absence was noticed.

So I demand that such episodes are not repeated in future.

What's the meaning of all this control?

Sudden visits, spying?

Gestapo investigations regarding my most trusted collaborators?

What does all this mean?

The factories seem to be under siege.

All this can't happen without your approval. What's the explanation?

I assure you that no-one...

...will leave this room...

...if what has to be said...

...is not said.

May I sit down?

I was sitting here that evening.

I haven't a lot to say.

Elisabeth and the girls left for Salzburg...

...on the morning of June 18th.

They never arrived.

Do you know where they were taken?

They took them where you decided: to Dachau.

To an internment camp.

You didn't want to hurt them.

But only force me to come back.

In the interests of justice.

And the firm.

And to get rid of someone who could have said...

...it was my pistol that killed Joachim Von Essenbeck.

But it was fired by someone else.

What do you want?

Nothing.

You've achieved your aim.

I came back to give myself up to the Gestapo...

...who will in turn release the girls.

Don't worry, they won't talk.

Neither will Elisabeth.

She's dead.

That's not possible.

It's the truth, Gunther.

Someone needs to know, remember and talk of it to others.

Because other people need to know.

And remember.

Uncle Herbert! Wait for me!

Gunther, where are you going?

Gunther!

Gunther, stay here.

Idiot, do you want to leave just when it's getting interesting?

I won't let you go. - Martin! - - Come with me. -

Look at him. It was he who killed your father.

Him! With his own hands.

You don't believe me? Ask him.

Tell him! How many shots did you have to fire?

Tell him. Who could contradict you?

Why did you open your mouth?

Because Friedrich told us we had to say everything there was to say.

I did just that. Wasn't it what the sole owner wanted?

I'll make you pay for this, you little swine.

Don't you see something's already changed here? I no longer fear you.

It's ironic, but the one who should be afraid is you...

...from now on. You too, Mother.

What do you want from Friedrich?

- Everything. - - You're mad. -

I intend to take back everything that belongs to me.

I won't allow you to.

Mother!

Ask forgiveness on your knees!

Mother!

Kneel down and ask my forgiveness.

No, Martin, no! Kneel down.

No...

Tomorrow Martin will be sorry. And he'll ask my forgiveness.

He'll be sorry.

Come.

Gunther?

If you like, I'll kill him.

You see, Gunther, tonight you've conquered something extraordinary.

Your father's brutality, Friedrich's ambition...

...even Martin's cruelty...

...are nothing compared with what you feel now.

Hatred, Gunther.

You feel pure, absolute, youthful hatred. But be careful.

This fury is too important to turn it into...

...personal revenge. It would be a luxury, a useless waste.

To destroy Friedrich the bite of a snake is sufficient.

You'll come with me.

We'll teach you how to manage this enormous wealth of yours.

To invest it correctly.

You do understand, don't you?

Come.

Gunther?

Come.

Martin, what are you doing here?

Go away, Mother, please.

Did he send you?

Why do you hate him so much?

Do you hate your mother too?

Go away, Mother, I beg you.

Don't you see the risk you're running in siding with Aschenbach?

How can you trust him?

Do you expect me to trust you?

Listen, Martin.

You listen. It's not Aschenbach or Friedrich I'm afraid of.

It's you, Mother. You've always been a nightmare...

...with your domineering ways. You always wanted to subjugate me.

By any means. With your ridiculous wigs, your make up.

You never loved me.

You always preferred him.

You gave him everything that belonged to me.

My factory, my money, my house, even my name.

And your love.

You're the worst of the lot!

It's you I hate.

You can't imagine how much I detest you.

I'll destroy you, Mother.

Martin...

Martin! No!

Sophie, we have to do something.

We can't remain closed in here.

Isolated, prisoners in our own home.

Under siege, just as Aschenbach planned.

Sophie...

I refuse to be destroyed like this.

Sophie, I've learned to kill.

The game is still on and I'll play to the bitter end.

But you must be on my side.

You have to help me.

It certainly won't be Martin...

...who'll deprive me of everything I've achieved.

I'd defeat him.

But I need you.

I only need you.

Sophie...

I need you.

Sophie, I need you!

Don't desert me now.

Don't desert me now.

I beg you, don't you desert me too.

Don't leave me.

Come along.

I've brought some friends with me.

The more we are, the merrier...

You seem depressed.

And this is your wedding day... ...Friedrich Von Essenbeck.

Thank you very much.

It was just a piece of paper. You were wrong to count so much on it.

One shouldn't trust decrees too much nowadays.

Aschenbach says you haven't understood anything about Nazism.

Yet it's not very difficult.

Even I've understood it.

Hurry up. Mother's waiting for you.

Softly, softly I heard your voice repeating to me:

...without you life is unbearable for me.

At night, the telephone would ring.

Sweet dreams. My love can only be you.

Light the candles.

I always used to telephone you...

...do you remember?

Sometimes we spoke for hours...

...it was wonderful

When we met...

...the evening you walked he home.

And when your steps resounded in the distance...

...our little game was far from over.

Let's go.

Come on!

...without you life is unbearable for me.

At night, the telephone would ring.

Sweet dreams. My love can only be you.

Do you declare you are of the Arian race?

Yes.

Yes.

Have any members of your families suffered from hereditary diseases?

- No. - - No. -

Thank you for coming...

Thank you.

At night, the telephone would ring.

Sweet dreams. My love can be only you.

I always telephoned you. Do you remember?

Sometimes we spoke for hours...

...it was wonderful.

The evening we met...

...you walked me home.

And when your steps resounded in the distance...

...our little game was far from over.

Softly, softly I heard your voice repeat to me:

...without you life is unbearable for me.

At night, the telephone would ring.

Sweet dreams. My love can be only you.

At night the telephone would ring...

...I knew straight away it could only be you.

Softly, softly I heard your voice repeat to me:

...without you life is unbearable for me.

At night the telephone would ring.

Sweet dreams. My love must only be you.