Original subtitles

Downloaded from YTS.MX

MISUNDERSTOOD

A production by

Official YIFY movies site: YTS.MX

Based on the novel by

Freely adapted by

Production designer

Original score by

Editing by

Cinematography by

Directed by

Where are the children, Duncombe?

Not here.

I sent them away…

… to Gill's house.

As soon as I saw there was no hope.

They don't know anything yet.

I'll tell Andrea.

He's old enough.

I don't know how… but I'll find the courage.

But Milo?

We'll try and distract him.

He thinks she's taking a trip.

The nanny should be there already.

She will help you. She's a very serious professional.

Milo…

He's so delicate.

So fragile.

Just like…

Just like his mother.

Keep him close.

He needs you, and you need him.

Well…!

Please thank the whole British community on my behalf.

Of course. - Thank you.

Drive the pastor home.

Go, Andrea! Go closer!

Children! Milo, Andrea!

Look who's here!

Dora! - Dora!

Giddyup, horsie! - Dora!

Dora!

Hi, Dora! - Hi, Andrea.

When did you get here? - When?!

Are you back for good? - Back to work here?

I can't, honeys.

I have a husband now, and a laundry shop.

Who'd take care of them?

I just came to pay you a little visit.

Blow your nose, come on. It's not the booger festival yet!

I've got a cold! - When don't you?

Let's go, I'll take you back home.

Is Mum back?

No, not yet.

Say goodbye to Mrs Gill and thank her again.

Bye, Milo. - Dora…

Bye, Andrea!

Goodbye, Mrs Gill. Thank you so much.

Goodbye, Mrs Gill! Thank you so much!

Let's race! I'll give you a five-metre head start.

No, ten! - Seven!

Four… six…

… nine… eight… ten!

Go!

Don't run, Milo! You have a cold already!

That's not fair, you started before me!

Daddy! Daddy! Daddy!

Milo! - Daddy!

How are you, little guppy?

I'm good! Did you leave Mum in London?

Yes.

Why? - She was still a bit busy.

When will she be back? - Soon. Soon.

How many days?

Oh…

Two… three…

Did you like it at Gill's? - A lot!

As if!

"Stop that, baby. Quiet, baby.

"Don't speak, baby. Don't touch, baby…"

And you obeyed, right?

Look at him, Mr Consul. Poor baby.

You should've seen him, Daddy! First, he fought with lions.

Then he fell from the North Pole and ripped his shirt!

Good morning, children!

No. No injections! - Calm down, Milo!

No, don't worry!

I'll take it orally! - No, Milo.

It's just your nanny. Look at her.

Oh, honey!

She's dressed to inject! - No, no…

Come, come.

Here, let me introduce my children.

This is Milo…

… and this is Andrea.

This is Ms. Luisa.

Why is she here? - Well…

She will clothe you, feed you…

She'll keep you company, and… she'll play with you.

I want to play with Andrea.

Come on.

What will Mum do when she's back, if this lady's doing it all?

I'm sure we'll be fast friends.

Won't you give me a kiss, Milo?

Here's your kiss! - Milo!

Do you have a magic bag?

I do have a bag, but it's not magic.

I'll stay with you a little. Won't you hold her hand?

Of course he will.

Well done. What a sweetheart.

You come too, Andrea!

No, Andrea. Wait here.

I must speak to him a moment.

Milo, go with them. Be good.

I have something to tell you.

It's not easy for me, saying what I'm about to say.

You saw.

I had to hire a nanny.

From now on, our home won't be the same.

When I sent you to stay with the Gills…

I told them to tell you your mother had to leave in a hurry.

It wasn't true.

She was here, at home.

She was sick… and…

During your absence…

… she got worse.

And now…

You see, Andrea…

I know.

The Gills said it quietly…

but I heard them anyway.

Stop that!

Very well, Andrea.

I'm pleased to see you're so brave.

I knew you were strong.

Which is why I decided to tell you…

… that your mother's gone.

But I didn't think you'd be this strong.

All the better.

Your life will be much easier.

There's just one thing you have to promise.

Yes, Dad.

Not a word of this to Milo.

I won't, Dad.

Do you promise?

I promise.

You're free to go now.

You need a nice bath, don't you?

Yes, Dad.

I know, Will.

If you weren't so busy, you would've come.

Don't worry about it.

She smiled until the last, you know?

I still can't believe it.

The children?

No, Will.

They're kids, they can't understand.

Mum! Where's my…

Dad didn't come? - He had to stay at the office.

He was waiting for a call from London.

Buh-bye, England!

Go! - Get inside, hurry!

Franzini! Get out, if you have the courage!

No, you get out! - I'll knock your lights out!

Fight! Fight!

Always with you and Franzini! That's enough, you rascals!

Return my hat, you idiot! - You can keep it!

Young sir, enough. Don't let them get to you.

There!

Stop by the stationary shop on Via Maggio, please.

Of course.

By the way, would you lend me 180 liras?

As you wish, sir.

Come on, darling.

Please, for the love of Baby Jesus…

Baby Jesus doesn't have to eat this stuff!

For shame! Careful, it will spill!

Here he is! He's back!

Andrea!

Andrea!

Hi, Milo! - Close that, there's a draft!

Just what we needed…

Do you have it? - Yes.

Come on, darling. Eat. - No, enough!

Andrea, go away. Let him eat in peace.

Eat up, or you won't get better.

I don't like it, I'm not hungry and I don't wanna.

Fine, then!

I'll show your father how much food you left!

Andrea, was closing the door too much effort?

See how obedient I am. I ate it all!

It was you. - No it wasn't!

Very funny. What good does that do?

Milo needs to eat! I had put vitamins in it.

More like yucky-mins.

He's right! What are you feeding him?

Sure, nice example you're setting!

I'll tell your father about you, too.

Milo!

I've had no fever for two days! - We'll see in a moment.

Andrea's neck is wounded!

Right, I got in a fight this morning.

Some guy called me "England."

Well, aren't you from England?

Yes, but it was meant as an insult.

Yes, quite impressive. At least disinfect it.

Look how sleek it is! - Is it stratospheric?

Of course. It cost 180 liras!

Come on!

Quick, get the counterweight!

Mind the thermometer! - Yes, I'm holding it.

Nice!

There…

Do you have the matches? - Of course.

Wind-proof!

Ready for take-off! Ten, nine, eight, seven…

What are you doing? Look! Three, two, one…

Perfect take-off! It flew at least 1,000 metres.

It hit a cloud.

What are you doing with the window open?

You're out of your mind, Andrea!

He'll catch pneumonia!

Come, my little star…

You, close the window!

Oh! The thermometer!

Here it is! - Did it break?

No, I took it out. Just in the nick of time!

What's so funny? It would've been your fault.

My fault? - Yes, yours. Only yours.

Look, his temperature's up again. 37.4 degrees!

Let me see!

Andrea, give that back! Give it back, I said!

It's not even 37. And it's internal!

You're a liar!

I'm all better! I'm all better! Yippee!

Go back to bed! I say you still have a fever!

You need to rest!

ANDREA, DON'T TOUCH! - MUM

Dad's not coming today either?

He phoned a minute ago. He'll dine out with some guests.

Are you not hungry, young sir?

You bet I'm hungry!

Where are you going with that? - To eat it.

Where? - With Milo.

Don't you dare! Milo needs his rest now.

Yes, Andrea! Come eat with me!

Shut up and sleep!

But I'm not tired!

Go away right now. Back to the dining hall!

I don't feel like eating alone. - Come, Andrea!

Listen to me, Andrea. I have a job to do.

Your father wants Milo to rest in the afternoon

and I must obey his orders. Understood?

And so do you.

Andrea! Andrea! Andrea! Andrea!

Fine. - There we go.

Enough, Milo! Go to sleep! - No! Come, Andrea!

Your brother is behaving. - I want Andrea!

Go away! Andrea!

Be good and sleep, Milo. We'll play later.

Calm down! - No, I want him now! Go away!

Don't touch me! I'm not going to sleep!

I want Andrea! - Cry until tomorrow, if you want!

I don't care. You won't get out of bed until you've slept!

No! I want Andrea!

Let me go! - Stop it! That's enough!

Andrea!

Andrea! Let me go!

Andrea! Andrea!

A black crow perched on the highest branch

of a large tree…

… with a nice piece of cheese in its beak.

A hungry little elephant came along.

"Throw down your cheese," said the little elephant…

"… or I'll soak you in water!"

But the crow was not afraid, and so…

The elephant's trunk sprayed…

… a tall… jet… of water…

I'm not sleeping yet.

The little elephant laughed out loud, and off he went.

Then, a hungry tiger came along.

"Get down from there, crow," said the tiger sweetly.

"Leave your cheese on my nose…

"… and I'll teach you a wonderful game."

But the crow didn't budge.

Because he didn't trust the tiger.

No.

Don't turn it off. I'm not sleepy yet.

How come, Andrea? It's late.

I don't know. Can you stay a little longer?

You want to know how the story ends, don't you?

Now come on, Andrea.

You're a big boy now.

Yes, Dad.

You know why you can't sleep?

Because you're guilty over what you did today.

What did I do?

Didn't you do something to Milo?

He was upset all day.

He refused to sleep until I came back.

You saw how long it took to calm him down. Why do you do this, Andrea?

You know it's bad for him.

It's that witch's fault, Dad.

Come on, Andrea. - Yes, Dad!

Listen to me, won't you?

Milo didn't have a fever at all. I saw the thermometer!

But she made it up so he could stay in bed.

If I took care of him, he'd never get sick.

Don't be silly, Andrea. Now go to bed.

You don't believe me?!

Sure, sure. I believe you.

But maybe you saw wrong. Good night, now.

Good night.

Dad… - Yes?

Dad, we have the judo tournament at school tomorrow.

Will you come see me?

Tomorrow? I don't think I can, Andrea.

But Dad, all the parents will be there.

Fine, I'll be there if I can.

But I can't tell the Irish delegation the consul is absent

because he's at a judo contest, don't you think?

Yes, Dad.

Good night.

But maybe I'll win, tomorrow…

Good night!

Fight.

Bussi wins.

Franzini. Duncombe.

Salute.

Fight.

Nice, Franzini!

Nice move, England!

Franzini wins!

Salute.

Oh, it's you. What is it? Why aren't you in bed?

Dad, I need to explain something.

Today I lost, but I was winning. You saw it when you came in.

When I came where? - To judo class!

Oh, right. Do calm down, though.

How can I calm down? I had him pinned, you saw it!

I was so close to winning, I swear!

But then you came in, and I…

You mean I shouldn't have come?

No, you don't understand!

You told me you weren't coming, so I wasn't expecting you.

But you came, and when I saw you…

Franzini took that chance to slip out and get on top.

But I gave it my all, Dad. I really did!

But my arms wouldn't work, they were shaking…

Actually, they weren't… I just couldn't hold him.

Are you that upset about losing?

It's not that… well, a bit…

I'm just upset that…

Well, it doesn't matter.

Learning how to lose is important.

You'll win next time…

… when I'm not there.

Yes, Dad.

Now go back to bed.

Good night.

I bothered you, didn't I? - Not at all.

You were working with the recorder?

Well, good night.

Good night.

John, why are you inside? It's so nice and sunny!

Come to the garden! - You come here.

What did you do? Your hair's a mess.

I was on the swing with Andrea.

What's that, a tape recorder? - Yes.

But it's on!

Is it recording everything we say? - Yup.

Come on, say something.

What should I say?

Recite a poem.

Me? I'm no good at that. - It doesn't matter…

Then, here… how about this?

Try reading this. Really put your heart into it.

What is it? Eliot? No, I just can't.

Come on. Am I embarrassing you? - Fine, I'll try.

You're doing good!

What do you want? Be quiet. Sleep.

I can't. I'm scared!

Of what? We have a lightning rod.

Yes, I know… but I'm scared anyway!

Bury your head under a pillow, then.

Help! I'm gonna drown! I'm drowning, help!

Fine, fine. Get in my bed.

I'm scared even with you. I want Mummy!

Stop that.

I want my Mum… Why won't she come back?

You always say she'll be back, but she never is.

I want her!

Stop it.

Mum's busy.

Busy, busy. She's always busy.

Where is she?

Where do you think?

Someplace.

You're such a bother.

What place?

A villa.

A wonderful villa.

With a big green lawn.

And there's also a lake… with swans.

And stables… with lots of horses.

And on Sundays…

… they always go fox-hunting in the woods.

Like the paintings in our hallway?

Yes. Just like that.

And what's Mum doing there?

Mum?

Mum does what she did here with us.

She makes breakfast with bread and butter…

She puts on her lipstick.

And everyone listens to her, because she's beautiful.

Why can't she do that here? Doesn't she think of us?

Of course she thinks of us.

It's just that…

It's just she can't…

Daddy!

Milo.

What is it? - I wanna sleep in your bed!

No, darling, you can't. Don't throw a tantrum…

You must sleep in your bed.

I wanna be in your bed, not mine!

No, no… - In your bed!

Come on, be good, little guppy…

I'm scared of thunder… - No, no…

Yes, I'm scared!

The storm has passed. - No, it's still going!

It's already over. Listen.

Be a good boy and lie down. You'll sleep right away, you'll see.

I want my Mummy.

Mum is dead.

What did you tell him?

Nothing, Dad. I swear I said nothing!

Come, sweetheart. Come with me.

Dad!

He won't believe me. Why?

Why won't Dad believe me?

Why?

Come on, count!

One, two, three, four…

… five, seven, nine…

… eight, ten, twelve, thirteen…

… fifteen, seventeen…

Miss, what comes after 17?

What did you say?

Milo!

Don't move a muscle! Wait for me, I'm coming!

Milo! - Watch out!

Vandal! You, don't move!

What comes after 17?

Milo! For Baby Jesus's sake, get down!

What's with you and Baby Jesus?

Come down! - Tell me what comes after 17!

I don't know! Who put you up there?

Andrea did. I'm his stopwatch!

Andrea.

Andrea! Get down from that…

Milo! It doesn't count, there was a runaway horse in my way!

Restart from the top!

One… two… three… four… five…

… seven… nine… - Andrea!

… twelve… Andrea, watch out for the horse!

Go, go!

Andrea, I order you to stop!

That's an order! - Miss, what comes after 22?

Stop right now! Andrea!

Let's see if you dare to run me over! - Get out of the way!

Out of the way, you idiot! Move!

Don't fall!

I could have killed you!

I wish he had, you idiot!

Yes! Idiot, idiot, idiot!

Just look at this idiot.

She made me break my bike!

Miss, help me down!

I've had enough. I quit! Tell your dad to find someone else.

I can no longer stand you brats!

Let me down! Miss! - Calm down, Milo, I'm coming.

Come on, put your feet here.

You were great, Andrea. You're right, she's an idiot!

Mum was always happy when I rode my bike so fast.

Really? - Yeah, she'd cheer me on.

"Faster, Andrea! Pedal faster!

"Come on, Andrea! Beat your record!"

She looked at her watch, and…

… she'd give me a prize.

Who's this idiot to tell me to stop?

Andrea, let's make a promise. - Okay.

You must swear. - I swear.

But what am I promising?

I forgot! - You dumbo!

Ah, yes! Let's send her away, even if she says sorry.

I promise!

Andrea, did that slap hurt?

No.

Can we go to the lake now? - Of course!

We've got nothing else to do!

And if another comes, we'll send her away too.

We'll send them away with a kick in the arse!

Milo! Who taught you such language?

You did!

Look. That's where Mum sat when she brought us here.

On the ground?

No, she'd bring a folding chair.

Andrea, what was Mum like?

You don't remember her?

I did before, but now not so much.

Haven't you seen her portrait? - Yeah.

That's how she looked in summer. Paler in winter.

When she ran, she became all red and laughed.

I do remember that she laughed!

She was always happy.

When we played cards, she cheated!

She did what?

She cheated. Took two cards instead of one.

Why? - Because she wanted to win.

Dad caught her so many times.

She said if she didn't cheat, she didn't have fun.

You look like her.

Who? Mum?

Yes, your eyes and mouth. You laugh just like her.

Andrea.

What's it like, being dead?

It's hard to explain. - Why?

Close your eyes, hold your breath, and plug your ears.

Well, it's like that, more or less.

But I'm not seeing anything!

What did you expect?

To see Mummy.

To see her, you'd have to die for real.

You know what that branch is?

It's a fallen branch!

Nope. It's a brave-o-metre.

What's a b-b-brave-o-metre?

Here, look! If I hang here, nothing happens.

It doesn't creak, so there's no danger.

But just a little farther, it goes "crack."

I've reached two "cracks" already.

Let's see if I can do three. That would be a new record.

Watch out, Andrea, it went "crack!"

Yes! One!

Two!

Stop, Andrea! - Quiet, or I won't hear it!

Come on.

Harder, harder!

Leave it to me. - No, it's mine!

Come on, then!

Are you really that weak?

I've got more!

Of course, I spend mine!

100, 200, 300, 400…

Wait!

… 600, 700, 800…

… 900… 1,000… 1,100…

… 1,200… 1,300… 1,400… 1,500…

… 1,600… 1,700… 1,800… 1,900…

The idiot forgot these!

The idiot? Good!

She's not coming back, anyway.

3,000!

3,100… 3,200…

5,200… 5,300… 5,400… 5,500…

… 5,600… 5,700… 5,800!

Is that enough? - Yes.

I think so.

All that matters is having a good idea.

A great idea!

The price doesn't matter.

Well, wish me good luck. Bye, Milo!

Andrea…!

Well? What happened?

What are you doing, crying on the ground?

Half the money's mine. More than half.

Milo, please don't start.

I can't take you to Florence.

All that way, on the rack? Are you crazy?

The new nanny gets here tomorrow.

Tomorrow?

Yes, and Dad wants a super strict one because of you.

Andrea, today is the last day that the two of us…

… can still do what we like.

Milo…

Come on, stop it. Don't insist.

Be good, don't cry. - No, I insist!

Fine, then! Cry all you want, but after I've left!

Get out of the way, Milo!

Move, I said! I'm not changing my mind!

I've got it!

How about a nice pipe? - He doesn't smoke!

Who are those guys?

Two sheriffs. Milo, don't get distracted.

Concentrate and think, we have to find a gift for Dad.

An umbrella! - He's got four.

All bought in London.

Mum always got him one when she came back.

Maybe they're broken.

A raincoat! - No!

An undershirt! - It's not enough…

It's tough having a rich dad.

Oh, bother.

Let's give him the money, so he can buy what he wants!

Ready?

Now it's your turn, Milo. Be still and smile.

Stay still.

That dang photographer…

He said half an hour, but it took two hours!

God, let us get there…

even just one minute… before Dad.

You're as slow as a snail!

We're uphill… and you're heavy!

Hi!

Look at those two, Mr Consul.

Damn rascals.

Wait… that's Andrea.

And Milo too!

Andrea!

Andrea, let go immediately!

Get off from there! You'll get killed!

Off, I said! This isn't over, young man!

I'm at a loss for words, Andrea. I give up.

It's not even worth yelling at you!

You don't have the slightest sense of responsibility.

Are you listening? - Yes, Dad.

Very well, then.

Do whatever you like from now on, for all I care.

Be as reckless as you like. It's no use arguing with you.

But do it alone… without Milo!

Are we understood?

I didn't want to take him, Dad.

He insisted to come. He never leaves me alone.

And why is that? Because he loves you!

Yes, Dad. - While you clearly don't love him.

You think you do, but he's no more than a toy to you.

What do you want?

Happy birthday, Dad.

My birthday…

I'd forgotten. Thank you so much.

Open it.

DRIVE SAFELY FOR US

Do you like it?

It's a wonderful thought.

I'm very happy. Thank you.

Thank you, dear. - We bought it with both our money.

Is that so? - But mine was more.

Go, now. Go to your room.

So I'm the one who must drive safely, am I?

Send me to boarding school, Dad. I'm a bad son.

You're not bad.

You are the way you are.

Things don't affect you, they wash right off.

You didn't cry, even when I…

Back then I said you were lucky to be this way.

But don't go too far!

Sooner or later, without even meaning to…

you could really harm your brother.

Enough of this. Now go.

Andrea.

Thanks for the present.

But there's only one gift I want from you.

Just one. Try to be good.

At least try.

Will you promise? - Yes, Dad.

Kids! Where did you hide my right slipper?

Do you read me? The Nazi spy went by.

She didn't see me.

Copy that. Stay alert, and only shoot if necessary.

Proceed with Operation Martian Space Base.

I've spotted a mysterious black figure.

It appears to be mummified.

Probably in a state of hibernation.

It's threatened by a remote-controlled robot!

It seems equipped with metal fingers.

Lawrence of Arabia and the White Sheik are also on-site!

Friend or foe status unconfirmed.

Attention, attention!

Dinosaur sighted! I repeat, dinosaur sighted!

It's threatening…

… my right shoe.

Base, new mysterious object spotted in the distance.

I'll go investigate.

Over and out.

Agent Z-K reporting in.

Spy X-2 here. Can I go pee?

Don't bother me with that, I'm engaging! Just go!

Thank you!

John, why are you inside? It's so nice and sunny!

Milo!

You come here.

What did you do? Your hair's a mess.

I was on the swing with Andrea.

What's that, a tape recorder? - Yes.

But it's on!

Is it recording everything we say? - Yup.

Come on, say something.

What should I say?

Recite a poem.

Me? I'm no good at that. - It doesn't matter…

Then, here… how about this?

Try reading this. Really put your heart into it.

What is it? Eliot? No, I just can't.

Come on. Am I embarrassing you? - Fine, I'll try.

You're doing good!

Hello!

Spy X-2 reporting in. Uncle Will has arrived.

I'll be happy so long as I can't hear chickens… or children.

I could have the chickens butchered.

Not the children?

Ah, here they are. Come in, come in…

Thank you, Miss Judy.

This is Milo.

Milo, who gave you permission?

Eat up. - Don't!

Why not? It'll keep your mouth busy, at least.

And this is Andrea. - Good morning

Hi, Andrea.

Last time I saw you, you were this small.

You've grown. Well done.

Well done, both of you. Do you go to school?

I do. He's still too little.

He's really good. He only gets top grades!

My God. Say it isn't so!

Why?

Because studying is absolutely… unnatural.

A slow suicide.

I study very little. Almost never.

Then how do you do it?

Don't tell me you're a genius?

Not really.

Thank goodness. - Why?

Because intelligence, my child, is even more dangerous than study.

Don't worry, Andrea. Uncle Will is kidding.

Not at all. I always believe what I say.

Enough of that! - It's for Uncle.

Thank you, dear.

Mind you, I'm certainly worth little as an educator.

Truth is, I don't like kids.

And I don't like old people.

You're not funny, Andrea.

On the contrary! Nice comeback.

Well done, Andrea.

Yes, fine. Go play, now.

Yes, Dad. - And don't make noise.

Smash whatever you like… but quietly.

Let's go, Milo.

Uncle Will, what's in all your suitcases?

Nothing important. Just some heads.

Heads? - Yes, little children's heads.

I collect them.

My recorder! Who touched it? - Not me, Mr Consul.

Someone did! A tape is gone. - I don't know, sir.

You know what's in his suitcases? - Leave me alone!

Andrea! Have you gone mad?

Milo, are you hurt? - Yes, my head.

Shame on you. - What happened, Milo?

It wasn't me! - I just saw you push him!

No… Dad, I didn't touch your recorder.

I hope you're not lying.

I'm not, Dad. I swear.

Erased?

Yes. Don't you know what that means?

It's no longer there. It's gone.

Can't you bring it back?

How could I? There's nothing to bring back.

You must've pressed the wrong button.

But the tape's still good.

Try again… please do something. I'll pay whatever you like.

It's not a matter of money. Don't you get it?

If it's gone, it's gone.

And to think you looked like a smart boy.

Hey, boy! Boy!

You forgot your tape.

Are you crying?

What was on that tape?

My mother's voice.

Your mother's voice?

Yes. - Why cry about it?

Is she dead? - Yes.

She is?

I'm so sorry, kiddo. But what can I do?

I'm not a wizard.

Come, my poor boy.

Come on, calm down.

Here, drink this. It'll pick you right up.

Strong, isn't it? It burns, but it cures all.

Give it a minute, you'll feel brand new.

Come, sit here.

You'll be all better, you'll see.

Hello?

Yes, speaking. What did you want?

All right.

No, not today.

Tomorrow, without fail!

He's drunk!

No, not your room. Let's got to mine, it's safer.

Grit your teeth, son. Don't leave traces.

No, no! Not on the carpet!

One last effort.

Here we are.

If I were you, I'd try to vomit quietly.

Otherwise, they'll all come.

And let me tell you, you're not a happy sight.

All done? - Yes.

First you filled up…

… then you emptied out.

Now stay in bed a little.

Now, young man, if you've regained your senses

indulge my curiosity.

Do you get drunk every Thursday, or is today special?

It's the first time, Uncle.

Well, you're starting a bit early.

I know these steps are necessary at times…

I'm sure you had a good reason.

Don't ask, Uncle. I'm not telling.

No, no, don't worry.

There's a tacit pact between us drinkers:

respect each others' right to get wasted.

Now rest. And try to get presentable for dinner, at least.

You know, Uncle?

It's not true I don't like old people.

And yet I still don't like children.

That's the grave of a preacher with an awful beard.

He looked like a criminal.

That one's a poetess with her husband, but she's not famous.

Parker something. She's not in my encyclopedia.

This one's son died 100 years ago.

There's Mum. - You sure know your way around here.

Do you come often?

Sometimes.

Look, Daddy. They're here again!

Indeed.

Cornflowers. She loved them. They're always here.

I wonder who brings them.

Daddy, should I change the water? - Go.

You know what I often think, Will?

I should have forced her to take better care of herself.

Maybe she… - Why torture yourself?

You can't make people live under a glass dome.

She'd have never been happy.

That's how she was, John.

Look, Will. Look at Andrea.

The world could end, and he'd keep on playing.

I think you're wrong, John.

Andrea is like a dog without an owner.

Try petting him.

Andrea is not a dog.

He's a child.

I wish he'd react like a human being.

I don't want to offend children nor dogs

but they both share the need for a master.

I've tried being a friend to Andrea.

Not a friend, John. A master.

Make him carry a newspaper in his mouth. You'll see how happy he'll be.

Oh, Will. Can't you be serious, even once?

No, but I can shut up.

You've caught my meaning, anyway.

Well, Dad? Aren't we going?

Listen, Will.

Drop me off at the consulate.

You keep the car and go wherever you please.

Take a look at Florence.

Andrea may want to ride some go-karts.

Yes! Let's do that, I like to watch him drive!

I'll have lunch with a Nigerian student delegation.

You can come, and we'll take you to the station at 3.

I'll see you at the restaurant. Don't pick me up.

I'll come on my own with the Nigerians. - Got it.

Andrea.

Wouldn't you like to stay with me instead?

What for?

Well, you could help me.

You could open my mail. Only if you want, of course.

Yes, I do. I do!

Me too! I'm coming too! - Settle down, you.

I wanna open the mail! - But it's boring, it's work!

If Andrea's doing it I am too! - Come on, we'll have fun.

Stop the car, I wanna go with Daddy!

Come.

Are you sure you wouldn't rather be at the go-karts with Milo?

No, Dad. I'd rather be with you, any day of the week!

Are we going? - Of course.

Andrea!

Where are you going?

My office is on the ground floor.

Have you never been here before? - Never, Dad.

Really?

The upstairs halls are for receptions and parties.

There! Here's where your father works.

Make yourself comfortable.

Do you like it?

Yes, Dad.

Go ahead, sit down.

Did you see the Queen's portrait? The big one.

There's even a personalised autograph on it.

"To Sir John Edward Duncombe."

Lots of mail, wouldn't you say?

Mum looks better in her portrait at home.

She looks a bit sad here.

Yes, you're right.

She wasn't like that.

Good morning, Mr Consul. - Morning, Charles. Come in.

Did you get your mail? - Yes, thank you, Charles.

Let me introduce my firstborn, Andrea.

Good morning, Andrea. How are you?

He came here to give me a hand. - Very well done.

I was supposed to open his mail.

I got distracted, Andrea. How stupid of me.

Well, no matter. Take these, and sit at that table.

Take the chair.

Please give him a hand, Charles.

I'll dictate a letter.

A very important letter to our ambassador in Rome.

Come, sit.

Are you ready? - Yes, Dad.

Good.

Well, good luck then. Beg your pardon.

Thank you, Charles.

"My dear Ambassador, I am replying to you

"concerning the planned relocation of our headquarters

"for the offices of our consulate here in Florence.

"The matter presents many issues

"which I would prefer to discuss in person

"during my next visit to Rome."

Slow down, Dad.

You're right, sorry.

Say… - Yes, Dad?

Do you have any important classes at school this Saturday?

Saturday…

I've got a maths test, why?

I was thinking I could bring you to Rome with me.

But if you have a test… - Yes, Dad. Please!

We could leave after you get back from school.

Eat on the way, and be there in three hours.

We'd be back Sunday evening. - Do you mean it, Dad?

Of course. Why wouldn't I?

But you must be a perfect secretary, or it's no use bringing you!

Yes, Dad.

Let's finish this letter for now. - Yes, Dad.

Read it back to me. How far did you get?

"Dear Ambassador…"

They boiled him…

Then they covered him in mayo, capers and olives

with a nice side of salad.

It wasn't a great loss, luckily. He was very annoying.

We should warn Dad! - Better not.

Here they are. Come on, Will!

We've been looking for you. - What are you doing there? Hurry up!

We're starving!

Milo, what are you doing?

Go back to your seat, quick.

What's this, now? You know we don't get up while eating.

And how many times have I said not to whisper?

If you have something to say, say it out loud.

What were you telling Andrea? Out with it.

Well?

I can't hear you.

I told you, it's not nice to whisper.

Speak up, come on.

Come on!

What are you afraid of?

We're not going to eat you or anything.

That's not true!

They're carnivores! They eat people!

Milo, what are you saying? Have you gone mad?

Uncle Will told me!

They're cannibals, they eat people meat!

Especially if it's tender…

… and white.

Milo…!

There's no way your Uncle could say such nonsense!

Do you realise what you've done? You just offended my guests!

Did you have to anger him? He had just promised me something.

You'll see… just wait.

Bye!

The cannibals will roast you on a spit, Uncle Will!

Andrea, where are you going? - Shush. Sleep!

Andrea, where are you going?

Milo, what are you doing here? Go back to bed!

Why are you running away from home?

Are you crazy? Go back to bed, or you'll catch a cold.

Go! Come on.

If you're not running away why did you take the car?

I want to wash it as a surprise for Dad.

I wanna surprise him too!

Dad was good to me, not you. You're not part of this!

Why was he good?

He's taking me to Rome.

I don't believe you!

We're going today, after lunch. Just us two.

I wanna come to Rome too!

Milo, we're going for work!

He needs a secretary, so he's bringing me.

I'll help him. Please, Milo, go to bed.

I'll help him too!

Quiet! Quiet! You can't help him.

You're too small! - You're small too!

I'm the eldest. - I'm the eldest too!

Shut up! Shut up! Shut up!

Will you stop it if I let you wash the car with me?

Will you?

Yes.

And then you'll go to bed? - What?

Will you go straight to bed?

Fine. - Speak up.

I will.

Is the water running? - Yes.

Don't come down here. You'll get wet and catch a cold.

Stay there.

Now turn it off.

Milo!

Are you out of your mind?

Why did you get wet? - Leave me be!

Come here, I'll dry you off!

Milo, stop!

Milo!

Why are you running? Why did you get wet?

I didn't do it on purpose!

Yes, you did it on purpose! - No, I didn't!

Stop it, Andrea. Who'd believe that?

Why would he soak himself?

I don't know, but he did! - No I didn't.

Did too! I saw you clearly.

I'll go tell Dad. I don't need anyone else to believe me.

You can't wake him up now. He came back late.

He said not to wake him before 9am. - 9am?

It doesn't matter. Tell him when he wakes up.

Just tell him everything I told you.

You'll see, he'll believe me. It's all different now.

Go on, be late for school too.

Bless you!

Nice going! You're even sneezing on purpose now.

Won't you take my temperature?

Bye, Andrea!

Miss Judy! Has Dad left already? - Yes.

He's left for Rome? - Yes!

Didn't I say that…?!

Dad didn't take you to Rome.

Why?

Dad is very angry.

You'll catch it when he's back!

Look, I even got a fever.

38.2 degrees!

You didn't tell him it was your fault?

Nope.

See? I'm the eldest too.

Andrea, can you help me with the glue?

Hello? Is this the Excelsior Hotel in Rome?

Is… His Excellency… John Edward Duncombe there?

What did you say?

Yes, tell him it's his son. He knows me.

Don't disturb yourself. - This way.

Thank you. - You're welcome.

Hello? Andrea!

Good evening, Dad.

First of all, who gave you permission to call?

I'll pay for the call, Dad. Keep my pocket money for the week.

Listen, Dad. I don't care that you didn't take me to Rome.

I just want you to believe me.

This time it's not my fault that Milo has a fever.

He has a fever now?

Just a little! Miss Judy has called a doctor.

Yes, I'll call her later.

Listen, Dad. This morning I was trying to…

Yes, Dad. Right away, Dad.

Miss Judy! Come here, Dad's on the phone!

What is it, Andrea? Andrea, where are you?

Where did you go?

What are you doing there?

Dad is on the phone from Rome. He wants to speak with you.

Oh. Good evening, Mr Duncombe.

I didn't want to disturb you. It's nothing to worry about.

Give it back when you're done. - Yes, just a regular cold.

The doctor prescribed the usual, and said his tonsils should be removed.

Yes, he's been sleeping for over an hour.

Yes, he feels cool now.

No, there's no need to alter your schedule.

Come back as planned.

Yes. Don't worry, Mr Duncombe.

Good night and…

Oh, sorry. Andrea wanted to speak with you.

Very well… Good night, Mr Duncombe.

He was in a rush.

He said you'll speak when he returns.

No. He doesn't care, anyway.

But if he thinks I'll pay for the call, he's crazy!

Santina, the thermos! - Here it is.

Bye, Milo. The clinic is lovely, you'll see.

I'll make you cheese pudding when you're back.

Mr Consul, your bag. - Oh, thank you.

Bye, Milo.

Get in the back. - Open the door, please.

I'll bring back my tonsils so you can pickle them!

Bye, Milo. Be back soon!

Bye!

Let's move along.

Bye, Milo!

Bye, honey.

No, the operation went smoothly.

But now he has to rest by the sea for two weeks.

He's not coming home, even for one day.

They discharge him in two days, and Dad will drive him to…

… Castiglioncello, with Miss Judy. - And you're not going?

I have school.

Give it here.

Did I burn them? - No, but you've ironed enough.

Give me something to wash, then.

Don't you have anything else to do? It's late!

It's 7pm, I have to close.

Five minutes more! - No way.

If the guard comes and sees I'm open, I'll get fined.

Hurry up, it's late for you too. You'll get yelled at.

Here, leave that to me.

Plus, no one scolds me any more.

Why, have you become good?

I doubt it. They're just glad I'm out of their hair.

And what, you miss being scolded?

Here. - Oh. Thanks.

Come back whenever, you can keep me company.

I don't need company.

But I could use some, kid.

Fine. I'll come if I have a couple spare hours.

Sodas, orange juice, beer…

Can I have a beer?

100 liras, please.

Gimme a Coke.

I'll have the popcorn.

How much? - For the Coke?

No, I'm paying for it all. - 200.

Here you go.

Thank you. - You're welcome.

Sodas, orange juice, pumpkin seeds!

Who wants some snacks?

Sodas, orange juice, beer!

Sodas!

Oh, you wouldn't want to see me lose my temper!

I kick Maria, our waitress, all the time.

And if Miss Judy protests, I tell her to go to hell.

I beat my brother so badly I sent him to the hospital.

What does your Dad say? - I never see him, not even at lunch.

Why, does he work all day?

He's a politician, but I have other plans.

I was in the hospital for my appendix.

You should've seen that!

They put me to sleep, but first they tied me.

With straps. They had gauze, alcohol, scissors, everything.

A big hospital. My mother has insurance.

What about yours? - Well, mine…

Don't you have one? - Of course I do!

But she's always in her room. She never leaves.

Why, is she old? - Of course not! She's 20!

So she had you when she was 10…

What's that got to do with it? I don't know…

But she… she's the only one I get along with.

She talks and sings, and I record her on tape.

Like adhesive tape?

Of course not! I mean… magnetic tape!

I have to go. Bye. - Come home, Andreina!

Just a little more! We can talk… - It's very late, bye.

What's your name, anyway? - Dracula.

Andrea, I'm back!

Milo, you got better!

How many "cracks" did you get to?

Four. But who did you come with?

I came by myself. I escaped!

Come on, Andrea. You can do it! I'm coming too!

No, Milo! It's very dangerous, stop!

I'll just do one "crack."

Stop! It can't hold both of us!

I'm light.

They even took my tonsils out!

Stop! Don't…!

Mr Consul, I'm so glad you're here.

Miss Judy just called. She was terribly upset.

Why? - I'm afraid she didn't say.

She didn't know much, but it seems both children fell into the lake.

Milo! If anything happened to Milo…

It's no use calling, no one will reply.

Even Miss Judy went to retrieve the children.

This time he'll pay. - They're at the villa. Hurry!

Milo!

Milo! - Daddy!

Milo, where are you? How are you, darling?

Are you all right? God, what a fright!

Mr Consul… - Yes?

They climbed a branch, it broke, and they fell into the water.

We took Andrea to the small drawing room.

What do you mean, "you took him?" - The brave-o-metre broke.

I don't know what that means.

But come, please. Go to Andrea.

Why did you put him here?

He asked us to.

The syringe, please.

Andrea…

It all went well… see?

Milo…

Milo wasn't hurt.

Never mind that, you look like you're in agony.

What's wrong with him? - Pardon me.

Settle down, Andrea.

You'll see, in a minute you won't feel the pain.

Tighten your fist. Yes, just like that.

Can I come in?

It's Milo.

Milo, be good and don't come in.

Andrea is badly hurt. Let him rest.

Dad…

Yes, son. I'm here.

Are you…

Are you mad at me?

No, Andrea. Why would I be?

Because I knew it was dangerous.

That's exactly why I did it.

To take my mind off things.

Off things? What things?

Doctor…? - No, do not worry.

It's merely the injection taking effect.

He's falling asleep.

What's wrong with him? Tell me!

Unfortunately, I fear there's…

… a lesion to his spinal chord. - What?!

Yes.

How is that possible?

Either the branch fell on him, or he hit a river stone.

I wouldn't move him.

He needs X-rays immediately, and a specialist.

Where is the telephone?

Judy… please.

Take the doctor to my office. - Right away. Come.

No, wait!

I'll go.

I'll phone!

I want the best from Rome, Milan… from abroad, if necessary.

We'll fly them in.

He's still restless. He keeps asking for you.

I'm here, Andrea.

Dad…

Send the doctors away.

Don't call them any more.

Why?

Because I say so. I don't want them.

They're here to care for you. To heal you.

They can't.

They won't be able to. - Of course they will, Andrea.

They're the best. The best in the world.

No, Dad. I know what "lower limb paralysis" means.

I heard them say it.

I'll never walk again.

No, no, no, Andrea.

You heard wrong, I assure you.

I hope so.

Why did you put him in a cage?

Quiet, quiet. What are you doing here? Go back to bed.

Come. - Why is he in there?

To help him sleep. - Nurse, please call Miss Judy.

Let's go, Milo. Please be good.

I wanna say good night!

Shush. I'll tell him for you. - No, I wanna!

You'll tell him when he's better. - But what if it's day then?

Promise me one thing…

Yes, anything you want.

Swear it.

I swear.

If I won't be able to walk, don't cure me.

I told you, you'll walk. You're improving already.

I'm not scared of dying, you know?

Mum died too.

Remove this tent, I don't want it. - Stop!

You must stay in it, dear. It's good for you.

I don't want it. I won't live without Mum.

But I'm here, dear. I will always be with you.

Always by your side.

No. You only love Milo.

I don't want to live without Mum.

You never hug me.

Mr Teacher…

I couldn't finish my essay.

I just… I don't know what else to write.

I'm sorry.

That whistle!

That whistle…

It's too strong.

Too strong.

It burns.

It's tearing my eardrums.

Mum. Mum!

It's dark.

Like the tape recorder, I erased your voice.

Dad wanted to be the only one listening.

It's the fever talking. I'll give him an injection.

No, Will. Only a miracle, they said.

Even if he survives, he'll never move again.

He's paralysed, Will. Dead from the waist down.

We can't move him from the sofa. We can't touch him.

He's still wearing the shirt he was running around in yesterday.

I messed everything up.

I thought he was invulnerable. Instead…

… he was the weakest of us all.

And now he's the one judging me.

He thinks I never loved him.

He can't go like this… without me having spoken to him.

But his moments of awareness are so few.

Agent Z-K, reporting in. I see a vicious animal!

Vicious animal reporting in. I see a tasty child!

Did he wake? - He's still sleeping, but he seems calm.

Thank you.

Mr Consul…

Maria says you haven't eaten since yesterday.

Won't you let me make you something?

No, I don't want anything. Thank you.

Milo, be quiet.

No, no… let him play.

Go and sleep for an hour.

I don't want to sleep. I only want to speak to Andrea.

Every minute could be his last.

Please go upstairs and fetch my electric razor.

Would you mind?

Of course not, Mr Consul. - Thank you.

The notebook…

The notebook…

I want to finish the essay…

I can't…

Mr Teacher, I can't…

It's too hard.

He's having a fever dream. He keeps talking about his notebook.

Some kind of homework.

I can't finish it at home.

Dad… he can't help me.

One, two, three, four, five…

… seven, nine, eight, ten…

… eleven, twelve, thirteen… - Stop that, Milo!

Why?

Hi, Dad.

Hello, son.

You slept a lot, you know?

How do you feel?

Good.

… So-so.

What's that?

This?

You didn't read it, did you?

I didn't.

I wanted to read it with you. You were talking in your sleep.

There was some homework you couldn't finish, so…

Perhaps I could help you?

No, Dad. Don't read it.

I didn't finish it.

I know. That's why…

I'd like to try and help you, at least once.

If you want…

"Describe your best friend, and explain why you are friends."

"Without a doubt, my best friend is my father.

"Of course, he is much older than me…

"but this makes no difference.

"He is very tall and very strong…

"He can easily pick me up with one arm, and speaks many languages.

"More than father and son, we are very good friends

"and our friendship is based on many things.

"For example, we often play together…

"and there are no secrets between us.

"If I ever feel sad, he understands immediately…

"so he lifts me in his arms, and says to me…

Why didn't you finish it?

You never say anything to me.

Would you like to finish it together?

I beg you. Let's try.

If you want… - Of course. Let's do it.

Let's see how we can continue it.

"He lifts me in his arms…

"… and he says, 'Son…

"… forgive me…

"… because it's not true that your dad always understood you.

"He was so blinded by grief, he didn't realise…

"… that…

"… perhaps you were grieving even more than him.

"Isn't it so?

"Dad took a long time to understand. Too long.

"And this is sad… unforgivable.

"But now we'll be friends for real, because…

"he's the one asking now.

"And he's proud to ask you.

"You are the very kind of son every father wishes he had."

Is… is that all true, Dad?

Yes, it is.

You'll see… I'll get better.

And I don't care if I can't walk any more…

But I feel so weak.

So… even if I don't make it…

… don't be sad.

When Mum left us…

… I stayed with you.

But if Mum wants me now…

Dad…!

Andrea.

Andrea!

Andrea, I managed to go around the house with the ball without one mistake!

Daddy, is he asleep?

Yes.

Will he wake up if I kiss him?

No.

Go. Go back to playing.

THE END