Original subtitles

A bell for Adano

Based on the novel by

Here we are.

It's here, sir.

I know. I know how to read.

Well...

They arrive.

Captain Purvis, military police.

Joppolo. Nice to meet you.

- We were looking for you, major. - Captain Anderson.

Nice to meet you. This is Sergeant Borth.

Sergeant.

Do you speak Italian, Major?

I manage.

I suspected it.

My parents are Italian. I'm from the Bronx.

How do you say "give me a kiss"?

Welcome, dear Americans!

Welcome Americans!

- Long live Eisenhower! - Who are you?

Zito, Giovanni. I have always hated the fascists.

What are you doing?

Welcome the Americans.

He talks about your job.

I am Zito, employed at the Palazzo di Città.

I work there every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

But everyone knows I hate fascists!

If you hate them, why work for them?

I didn't work there very much.

My lack of interest in this work has hurt me.

Listen. The major likes to know the truth.

One more lie and he'll send you sweeping the streets.

I have to make a living, I have six children.

So, now you are a Democrat?

- Long live democracy! - It will be useful to us.

- No more hello, OK? - Very well.

No need to bow down.

- Report to work at 7 a.m. - 7am!

- And no more lies. - No sir.

Giovanni Zito, American employee,

no longer has any reason to lie.

Where are the inhabitants?

The mayor and the deputies hid in the mountains.

How bad is it?

We've been starving and without bread for three days.

There are a lot of sick people.

The carts no longer supply us with water

because of the planes flying over the roads.

- And we destroyed our bell. - What bell?

"What bell"?

The one who was 7 centuries old!

Mussolini used it to make weapons

for the Germans.

Anderson, go get a priest. Organize a vigil.

Find food and medicine, and clean up a bit.

En route, Borth.

The bell had a wonderful sound and rang every 15 minutes.

The whole building was vibrating.

It was made by the great Lucio de Modica.

We took it two weeks before your arrival.

Sweep the stairs, and let it be clean!

This place is not bad.

- Hey! You! - Yes sir?

As a good fascist,

tell me what frame was here.

This framework does not exist.

You mean he's hidden waiting for the Germans to arrive?

No, it was destroyed, I swear to you.

I wouldn't dare lie to you, major.

We know you are lying.

Find their archives.

I'm sure the gentleman can be very helpful to us.

- Can I take it with me? - Yes.

Come on, my little one. We have work.

Chef?

Does the flag mean the war is over in Adano?

Yes. Who are you?

I'm from Cleveland, Ohio. Do you have work for me?

Your name?

Ribaudo, Giuseppe. In Cleveland, my name is Joe.

What can you do?

I am a good American. I hate the fascists.

I can work for you.

If you are a good American, why have you left?

- I was kicked out. - Why?

- I had no papers. - How did you get in?

Well I have a lot of friends in Cleveland and Buffalo.

Have you been jailed?

Obviously, several times.

OK, someone honest will help us.

I can be of great service to you, Chief.

But beware, no favors.

Of course, don't worry.

What does this city need?

Of food. We are in short supply here.

Everyone is afraid.

The baker no longer bakes bread, we no longer sell dough

and the carts no longer supply water.

I'll open up, boss.

My name is Cacopardo. Please accept my advice.

I am Craxi. I have a telegram.

Shall I take them out, Chief?

Major,

be careful.

In Adano,

many were sentenced to the electric chair in New York.

I have a telegram, could you send it?

You are not at the PTT here.

You wanted to advise me, so tell me what this town needs.

To eat!

Of the bell, more than anything.

You are crazy! To eat!

The city needs to get its bell back!

Enough! Who are these crazy people?

The oldest is Cacopardo, he is very wealthy.

And the big one is Craxi, a nervous little one.

Shall I take them out, Chief?

Silence!

Is there someone I trust here?

I do not know. I have only lived here for three years.

Is there a priest?

- Of course, a lot. - Which one is more competent?

Father Pensovecchio.

Indeed, chief.

- Bring him over. - Of course, Chief.

Can I trust Giuseppe?

I only mentioned the electric chair.

I will not denounce anyone.

Answer!

Giuseppe is harmless.

Major, I found the files

of everyone living here.

- Who are they? - I'm Craxi.

We need food.

- Bell! - Food is essential!

If the bell could have warned us of your arrival,

we would have greeted you with flowers.

I don't need a bell to know I'm hungry!

People don't have to know it!

My children know it!

- Zito! - Yes sir?

What do you think is most important:

The food or the bell?

The bell.

Why this?

The sound of the bell is magnificent.

He calmed the inhabitants,

calmed the most embittered, delighted the most unhappy,

and laughed even with the most drunk of us.

She had a sound for all of us, major.

Come in.

Here is Father Pensovecchio, from the Church of San Angelo.

Major Joppolo of the US Army.

How are you, Father?

Wait outside, I would like to talk to him.

- The telegram. - Leave it here.

Thank you, Major, I kiss your hand.

- This is Sergeant Borth. - Nice to meet you, Father.

I wanted to talk to someone I trust.

I try to help the locals and they only talk about this bell.

Ah yes, the bell.

You too?

It is surely difficult to conceive for an American,

but this bell was the heart of the city.

Our lives were organized around this bell.

In the morning, she would wake up the farmers.

She gave the signal to the carters,

and the baker followed.

And on Sunday, when all the ticks rang,

we only listened to the singular sound of it.

I understand. I'll see what I can do.

But first of all, the people must know

that we want the best for this city.

The best for Adano? Here is a new one.

We will only succeed if the people cooperate.

The people of Adano have spent 20 years

tried to collaborate with their conquerors.

What do you expect from them?

This afternoon, I will give them some guidelines.

They will have to read them and apply them.

You expect me ...

That you make sure they apply them.

At Sunday Mass, tell them we want to help them.

It's doable...

at one condition.

Which?

May the major himself come to the San Angelo mass.

Me?

My words will be more appreciated if you are present.

In addition, the American major will arouse curiosity.

Very well. At what time?

- At 7. - Perfect. Thanks for coming.

You were very well, chief!

Now we just have to solve the food problem.

You see? The conquerors are all the same.

He had no intention of coming.

- Go ring the bell. - The bell?

Yes, as loud as possible.

It is forbidden to ring the bells in times of war.

Let's see if things will be different in Adano.

Come on, hurry up.

We will appoint a mayor, a police chief,

and health officials.

What's going on?

- The bell! - San Angelo!

San Angelo?

What time is it?

7h20.

Zito, Giuseppe, come on! Lead me!

Don't tell me that he also plans to regulate prayers?

Chief, come and sit here.

I take this opportunity to share something with you.

My children.

Everything that is done in this world is done by God.

God gave us the wheat,

God gave us the sun.

After so many prayers, He sent us our deliverers.

As you know, it doesn't matter who represents authority,

you must obey the law.

If a child behaves badly, his father must punish him.

If you behave badly, the state will punish you.

If the latter behaves badly, he will be punished by God.

I spoke with the major

and he assured me that the Americans wanted the best for this city.

He promised to do all that is in his power

to provide us with food and water.

He even promised to find us a new bell

for our town hall.

The food!

Americans are free men.

A freedom that we hope is so dear to them,

that they would be willing to share it with their envious friends.

Let's say

that this man is a good man

and that thanks to him, the Americans are now our friends.

You, my children,

show your goodwill by reading the guidelines

of your new leaders

and submitting to it.

To the letter.

Americans pledge to apply

fair guidelines

and while keeping its promises.

This is it, chief.

Sit down!

Subject:

The bell belonging to Adano.

For the attention of Lieutenant-Colonel RN Sartorius,

of the supply manager.

And so on.

- Do you have everything? - Yes sir.

Are there blond women in this part of the country?

You are not blind, are you?

You noticed this blonde sitting next to me.

Answer!

Of course. There are blondes in the north.

Here, in the south, it is rather rare.

I would like...

- Chief? - Yes?

If you are feeling lonely, Giuseppe can arrange a date for you.

Who Said I Feel Lonely?

I've been to Cleveland, Ohio

I know what it's like to be away from home.

A guy quickly feels lonely.

I don't have time to feel alone.

Initiate the archive investigation

of the government of the province of Vicinamare ...

in order to find the trace ...

What is her name?

Tina. She is the daughter of Tomasino, a fisherman.

Is he a good fisherman?

The best, boss.

Bring him over, I want to meet him.

Very well. I'll arrange a date for you with this blonde.

A moment. I didn't mention a date.

Stop your chariot, chief.

Listen, fool! I said I wanted to see his father.

I want the fishermen to get back to work

to have something else to eat than pasta!

- Get the hell out of here! - Yes sir.

Where were we?

We were talking about two bells , one of which was blonde ...

What's going on, major?

A riot at the bakery.

That's enough! Silence! Shut up!

What's going on?

She challenges my authority.

He walked past everyone and took the bread!

It is within my rights as an officer.

Give me my bread!

That's enough!

Listen to me, Gargano.

The officers are not the leaders of the people.

They are the servants of the people, just like me.

When I go to buy bread, I will stand in line, like everyone else.

While waiting for my turn.

If you stick to it, you'll still be the police chief,

but if you or any other officer does not serve the people of Adano,

I am removing you from your functions.

Give him this bread.

Hurry up! Give it to him!

And now go to the end of the tail.

I said: "at the end of the tail", Gargano.

- Major? - Yes?

I thank you and I kiss your hand.

Pardon?

Don't be offended. It's an old custom here.

In the old days, we had to kiss the officers' hand.

The hand kiss then became too restrictive,

and now just say it.

Chief, you wanted to date Tina.

- Sorry ... - Shut up! I never said that.

Did you want to see his father?

Yes where is he?

Tomasino says he has never set foot in Town Hall.

He hates fascists, he doesn't know you . He will not come.

OK, I'll go see him. Where is he?

- On his boat. - Let's go, take me.

The major goes to see Tomasino.

At the port!

Where do they think they are?

They like to get involved in things that are none of their business.

Do you have nothing better to do?

Go back to your occupations!

- Joseph? - Oui?

- Do you want to lose your job? - No.

So, hold these people.

- We ask you to stop! - Who is that?

The man in the electric chair from Brooklyn?

Stop or I'll risk my job!

One more unemployed person, so what?

If you continue, the major will get angry.

While if you stay here,

I can tell you what they say.

All right, go look, Mr. Electric Chair.

Go ahead, my friend, go ahead!

Alright, stop me.

I didn't come for that.

Why are you carrying a gun? To shoot me down?

Go ahead, shoot.

I am the American administrator. I would like to talk to you about fishing.

Men of power are all the same.

- You're here to stop me. - No, please believe me.

It's incredible.

The major said to Tomasino: "Please believe me."

Silence, I'm going back.

I would like the fishermen to go back to work.

Why? To enrich the government?

No. To feed the people of Adano.

That's wonderful.

The major said

that the people of Adano are hungry and in need of fishing.

Why did you bring these people in to make fun of me?

No, I will not go back to sea.

Giuseppe!

Make them go! They disturb us!

I couldn't do anything, chief.

Do you want some fish?

So go away!

It is difficult to convince.

Do you prefer to watch us or eat?

They say eating is in the future

and observe you in the present tense,

therefore, they observe.

As a friend, I advise you to go.

I knew it was a trap! You are here to kill me!

Stop your salads and go back to sea.

Alright, and what will it cost me?

Nothing. So you don't understand?

No charge or tax? You are laughing at me?

My job is to keep the people of Adano alive.

It is too beautiful. I do not believe you.

Let's go ask the Navy Captain for permission .

It's a trap. You came to kill me.

- Hello, captain - Hello.

- Tomasino, responsible for fishing. - Tell him to get out.

It doesn't bother him, but I do.

In the Navy we have what we call "security".

I would like your permission for them to go back to sea.

- It might be difficult. - Why this?

We need permission from ComNavlt,

which will then notify ComNavNaw.

It will take time.

What does that mean?

Commander of the Naval Forces in Italy

and Commander of the Naval Forces of North Africa,

it is clearer?

Why not call the admiral? So you have no power?

They could get bombed by mistake.

- And so, we are at war! - Yes indeed.

The population is hungry. They need food or they will die.

Will you let them work?

I see, major. I'll see what I can do.

Good, captain. I knew you would help me.

Let's go, Tomasino.

Major, you can't imagine

how unhappy the Adano fishermen were.

The only thing we want is to go back to sea.

Thank you, Major, I kiss your hand.

It's nothing. Thanks to you, and I kiss your hand.

You are different.

We are going back to sea!

Do you see the blonde looking at you?

I am not blind.

What's this? A lynching?

Let's go!

Stop! Stand back!

- Major, thank you, my God! - Major!

If you help him, you are no longer our friend!

Go away. He is under arrest.

Stop him, sergeant. Take him away.

Thank you for saving me from these ungrateful people

that I have helped all my life.

Who is this moron?

My name is Nasta. I am the mayor.

I've served them for years and watch how they thank me.

So it's you. I understand why they hate you.

Maybe we should let them.

No I'm alone! I spent days in editing.

The nights were horrible. I thought about it.

I would like to help you.

What are you going to do with me?

If you think you're killing me, tell me. Don't shoot me in the back!

How long have you been mayor?

Nine years.

And is it after 9 years that you wake up?

After 9 years of bribery and abuse, do you want to help?

Other fascists offer you their help.

I saw Gargano and Zito. If they help you, why can't I?

Because I found another mayor.

Who is that?

An honest man, Cacopardo.

I could occupy a function other than that of mayor.

Really?

What does his file say?

He's a crook. He didn't kill anyone. Just theft.

Alright, I have something for you.

You will come every morning to see Sergeant Borth,

on the steps of the town hall, where we can see you.

Please, not that.

Don't treat me like a criminal. Be generous with me.

Generous!

With such a file, you should be shot on the spot.

Take him outside to apologize.

Go, Your Lordship.

Go!

Dear Roman and peasant friends,

I didn't come to praise this fool,

nor for you to bury it ... for now.

He has something to tell you first.

Now, Mr. Mayor,

if I understood correctly, you came back to apologize, right?

I had to come before you and not be humiliated, sergeant.

"Mr. Sergeant".

Please respond politely to the question.

Tell me,

did you or did you not order the police to fight

while you were hiding in the mountains?

Answer, inmate!

Yes, sergeant.

Mr. Sergeant!

All right, you can go.

To give you food for thought,

tomorrow we will discuss your crime of having such a big house.

The next day, your crime of fraud.

The next, from the taxes imposed on fishermen,

bakers and market gardeners.

And the next one, of having embezzled 25% of the city's money.

Now back off and come back tomorrow if you value your life.

You know, major,

we should practice this method at home.

I know some mayors ...

Honk again.

What's going on, Middleton?

A mule that is reluctant to move forward.

Impossible to move her.

Is that how you get the goods?

Figure it out. We can't get stuck here.

Very good sir.

Please go ahead, idiot.

The Americans must pass.

Violeta, do this for me.

- Sergeant! - Yes sir.

Don't just stand there! Get that mule out of the way.

Yes sir.

You are blocking the passage.

Did you hear the general? Get out!

Sergeant!

Get that mule off the road!

Go ahead!

Come push. We're gonna get her out of here.

I see. So, surely the bell was cast into a barrel.

Thanks anyway. Thanks for looking.

Certainly. Goodbye, lieutenant.

We found your bell. She was at the Vicinamare barracks.

It was transported to the foundry in Milan.

- Or? - Outside.

Stay seated.

Did you want to see me?

The fishermen send me.

They wanted to thank you for allowing them

to return to sea.

It's nothing. I am delighted to have helped them.

I do not know

if you have put fish in their nets,

but they thank you for it.

I'm afraid I'm not there for nothing.

My father would like to invite you to our place.

At your house?

To eat nougat that I prepared myself.

What time does he want me to come?

He says it's up to you.

At 8:30 am, is that okay with you?

The address is: 9 rue Vicolo Emanuele.

- Major? - Yes?

What will happen to the Italian prisoners of war?

I do not know.

Do you have a list of names?

Are you looking for someone in particular?

Many of Adano's men are missing.

I have no information, but I'll see what I can do.

Thanks, major.

I have an idea...

I could get you a freedom bell.

A freedom bell?

What is that?

It hangs in a tower in Philadelphia.

I believe it is made of bronze.

She's cracked.

We don't want a cracked bell.

Maybe the major

will get us a freedom bell that is not cracked.

It wouldn't be one without a crack.

So the subject is closed, chief.

I am going to open.

- Major Joppolo? - Yes sir.

Major!

Do you know about the bridge?

Yes, I just found out.

I promised you when I arrived

to inform you of all American decisions in Adano.

I just received this order.

"With immediate effect until further notice,

"The main road to Adano will remain open.

"All civilian vehicles and carts must use the trails.

"By order of General McKay,

"and of Colonel and Provost Marshal WW Middleton."

You could explain to them that this is the only road in Adano.

What about water, major? There is no well here.

How are we going to drink if we cannot be supplied?

And the food? The farms are on the other side of the bridge.

If the carts ca n't pass, we die.

I can not do anything. It is a military order.

That's it.

Captain Purvis, over to you.

Did you see that bunch of crazy people?

You have to be a little firm or else they won't be able to cope.

They obey guys who rule from their balconies.

The balconies are used for that.

I didn't come for that.

Relax, it's not your fault

if we can no longer be supplied.

They 'll just stand there if you don't come out and talk to them.

If you need help, let me know.

What do you have to say?

Come on, talk!

You, what's your name?

Face it, major.

Don't shout, I'm not deaf.

I would like to broach the subject of carts

which supply Adano.

These carts are very important to us.

I would like to tell you about mine.

It has two wheels ...

I know what it is, no need to describe it.

But do you know the melody that these wheels make?

Maybe you, you will only hear clicks,

but I hear the song of these wheels.

Enough about music Get straight to the point.

Last summer I went with my cart to Vicinamare

and the wheels sang a song.

It was also a prophecy.

Would you like to listen to this song, major?

Non!

The Americans are coming, Mr. Afronti

Americans are understanding

Especially when it comes to carts

And the music stopped.

There is no more music.

Thanks, major.

We will bring him back to the country. This is the new Sinatra.

Your name?

Basile, Giovanni, major.

The problem with the carts is the food.

How am I going to harness my horse,

whose name is Eisenhower, in homage to our liberator,

how am I going to hitch it up and sit down

to drive my car with pictures of fat and saints,

when the people of Adano are starving?

You!

Your name?

Erba, Carlo, major.

Come on, Erba, talk to the major in your cart delivering the water.

My cart is big.

It is dirty on the outside, but clean on the inside.

It carries water. My friends drink this water.

Keep going.

The thirst, the great thirst, Erba.

You don't let my cart deliver the water, major.

Without my cart, there is no water in Adano.

We're thirsty, major.

Since noon yesterday, we will die of thirst

and this because there are no more carts.

Directives require you to be clean

and the inhabitants wash themselves with water.

The streets also need to be cleaned.

My cart is on the other side of the bridge, major.

Let the carts pass.

Have you lost your mind? It's an order from General McKay.

- This is no longer the case. - What?

You can not do this.

We just did.

Wait a minute.

There is no "we". I don't want to be involved.

I order you to let the carts pass right now.

I will take all responsibility if there is any problem.

Alright, that's your head.

I think the major is right.

Reason? He will be able to consider himself happy if he does not end up shot

for disobeying the orders of a general.

I will let them pass.

Send a report to Colonel Middleton.

Tell him what happened.

That General McKay ordered us to block the traffic

and that Joppolo changed this order.

I don't want it to fall on me.

When we come for water, say it's thanks to the major.

I hate to see the major get into trouble

as he tries to do what's right.

Me too.

I could add a paragraph

explaining that carts are essential

and that the city depends on it.

It might help the major.

Yes.

Yes, add that, word for word.

You could do something else.

What?

The captain hates reading reports.

Look at his desk. Some have been there since our arrival.

You could...

accidentally lose this report on his stack of papers.

No. I can not do that.

And then I'm busy. I have had a migraine since this morning.

- Good evening. - Come in.

How are you?

Giuseppe told me he knew two lovely girls

and that everything was arranged. Ah, good old Giuseppe!

- Good evening, chief. - Good evening.

I haven't seen them, but he recommended the brunette.

I saved the blonde for you.

You're welcome.

I didn't know you were a regular.

We had to get the word out.

I never came.

- Nice to see you. - Thank you.

Sit down.

Taste my nougat.

I made it myself. It's delicious.

Thank you.

And a piece for you.

How about taking out the sweets?

The sweets?

Tina, Francesca, come over here, sweets.

Tomasino, go get some wine!

It is an excellent idea!

Good evening.

Not bad, not bad at all.

How's it going, chick?

Hey, easy.

What did I do?

You have to know how to get straight to the point, right, Rosa?

Is that a glue factory here or what?

Do you like music?

Of course.

You dance?

This is better!

- How about we get some fresh air? - It's a good idea.

Major?

You are a fast!

Where are you from? In the United States, I mean.

You Bronx.

Where is the Bronx?

At New York.

Is it a New York neighborhood?

No. New York is a district of the Bronx.

I would love to go there.

Is it beautiful?

For my parents, yes.

They come from a village near Florence.

They were very poor in Italy.

Being poor is never "beautiful" wherever you are.

My father has a good job. He is a waiter in a club.

My mother has a washing machine,

they have a car, something to eat ...

Yes, for them it is very beautiful.

For me, it is not so much.

Why?

It is difficult to explain. I grew up there, you know.

I saw that the Bronx was not the most beautiful place in the United States.

I always wanted more.

You don't need to explain it to me.

I know what it's like to be frustrated.

It is for this reason that I am blonde.

It's not my natural color.

I dyed myself because I was never satisfied.

My brown color was like my Bronx.

Everyone is brown here.

I wanted something different.

It suits you very well.

Tell me more about yourself.

There is not much to say. I studied until I was 16.

I was a truck driver until I was 20

then I worked in the New York tax department.

How much were they paying you?

When I lost my job I was getting 20 dollars a week.

How much does it represent?

About 2000 lire.

2000 lire per week?

You must have been rich.

My dad thought 600 a month was already good.

Not in the United States.

Our way of life is different from yours.

That is to say?

Americans own more than people here:

Cars, washing machines, that sort of thing.

And of course, you have to pay for it all.

Finally, this is what I said:

Everyone is rich in the Bronx.

Okay, if you say so. Maybe you are right.

Why did you lose your job?

There has been an administrative reshuffle.

The mayor whom I supported lost the elections and I was fired.

What did you do next?

I borrowed money from my mother-in-law.

Your mother-in-law?

You are married?

Yes, we'll talk about it again.

So I borrowed money from him

to buy a store in the Bronx.

At first everything was fine

then things got worse. I had to close.

I found another job at the town hall.

When I joined the military, I was getting $ 42 a week.

Or 4,200 lire.

Your wife, is she beautiful?

Yes, very beautiful.

She has dark skin, like you.

You remind me of her.

Were going dancing?

Who is it, Han?

It's for Colonel Sartorius. From the major to Adano.

What does he want?

A bell, sir.

- A bell? - Yes sir.

What kind of bell?

One that would motivate the inhabitants

and who would ensure the proper functioning of the city.

- Really? - Yes sir.

Does he really think Colonel Sartorius has all that to do?

Give me that.

Anything else, sir?

Yes. Try to get that nail out of my shoe.

Anyway, I was going to call this company.

The last time it was drivers.

Link me to Adano headquarters.

He must believe that this city is our only priority.

Sergeant Borth!

Why is no one responding?

The sergeant and major are absent, sir.

Very well.

I will answer.

Bureau du major Joppolo.

Joppolo, this is Colonel Middleton.

Colonel Sartorius is absent,

but he has more than enough of your requests.

I remind you that we are at war!

Colonel, le major Joppolo...

It's not our problem if Mussolini took this bell.

Stop brooding on them.

Of course, sir, but ...

I advise you to follow orders.

Get me the captain.

Hello, this is Captain Purvis.

Submit reports on time

otherwise I'll bring you all back here, is that understood?

You succeeded?

Yes, colonel.

Thanks, Han.

It was Colonel Middleton.

He spoke of a bell, what bell?

Major Joppolo has requested a bell for the town hall.

Middleton is very happy!

He complained that the reports did not arrive on time.

Listen up, Trapani. This office must be kept in order.

Yes sir.

But what is it?

"Subject: The Adano carts.

"À l'attention du colonel W.W. Middleton."

Sergent Trapani!

- Yes sir? - What is this report doing on my desk?

Remember, you asked me to write this report.

Of course I remember! Why is he still there?

I left it for you to sign.

Well, send it immediately to the colonel, understood?

Get yourselves together, Trapani, otherwise you'll be in trouble.

Yes sir.

What's happening to him?

This report on carts

which should get lost in the pile, does that mean anything to you?

- Oh yes, and what are you going to do with it? - I send it immediately!

- I will help you. - It's done.

By entering "urgent", it will go much faster.

COLONEL WW MIDDLETON. GENERAL DISTRICT, ALGIERS.

Here. We did everything to help the major.

They won't blame you for trying.

Or maybe if ...

Damn it...

I don't know how we're going to win this war.

What's going on?

What incompetence!

This letter is intended for Colonel Middleton.

It comes from Adano and they send it here, to Algiers.

Isn't that unfortunate?

What am I supposed to do with it?

I would put it in the dead letterbox.

This is what I usually do.

Wouldn't you do that?

What does one more paper represent in this war?

I know what I'm gonna do. I'll send her back.

It will serve as a lesson for them.

RETURN TO SHIPPER

I don't know how we're going to win this war.

What can I get you?

You have what?

Whisky, bourbon, gin,

cognac, vermouth.

- What do others drink? - A little bit of everything. Whiskey?

Very good, to accompany the others.

You have a very nice club.

It's just a place where officers like to come.

Thank you.

The Navy knows how to do it well.

Pleasing yourself doesn't hurt anyone.

And this fishing business!

I admire the way the Navy handles things.

Coming from the Army, that's a compliment.

- Sit down. - Thank you.

The Navy is always in action.

I don't know what I would have done without his help.

It wasn't much.

I do not believe you.

In the Army, you have to put everything in writing to get something.

While Livingston ...

By the way, did you have something to tell me?

- Indeed. - It's confidential?

No, nothing secret.

I'm only trying to get a bell for the city.

A bell?

It's not a simple bell ... It has to make sense.

Like a tradition.

Tradition as respect for authority, for duty ...?

Like our motto: "Nothing is impossible".

I knew you would understand the meaning of "tradition".

I tried to get one from the Army.

Something special for this city

to replace the one that was 7 centuries old.

But, they took me for a fool.

I guess they don't understand this stuff.

Wait...

I think I can find what you're looking for.

If so, I join the Navy!

I know of a destroyer with an Italian-American name.

It's a good lead. The Corelli. You know him?

All destroyers have a bell.

Which indicates the time.

I don't know about you,

but the sound that I prefer

is that of the Stevenson bell.

For me, he embodies the entire ship.

Do you think the Corelli would give his bell?

For such a reason, explained with the right words, yes.

Toot Dowling was a classmate.

We played football together. It's the captain.

Let Robertson handle this.

I did not expect that. I don't know how to thank you.

You're welcome. So much the better if we helped you.

Excuse me.

Yes, sergeant?

The supply trucks have arrived.

Very well.

I have to go. See you soon and thanks.

- See you, major. - Thank you.

If he already believes the Navy is effective,

he hasn't seen anything yet.

- In 7 days, he will have his bell. - Do you think you can do it?

Sorry? From Toot Dowling? Child's play.

I still remember

That you expected

Every summer evening by the barricade

Every night this light that I knew well

This is where I fell under your spell

My very dear woman of light

My sweet Lemarle

It didn't matter if the moon was there

- Good evening, major. - You go out?

Yes, I have an appointment.

You have to find things to do otherwise you will go crazy.

You come? We will find you a bitch.

No thanks.

We could have gone out to dinner.

I don't know if she will be blonde

but in the dark, we will not see the difference.

Again.

OK.

Good evening.

You were lying ...

It doesn't matter. Come in.

Thank you.

Sit down.

Why did you come?

I do not know. I felt...

Only?

Perhaps.

Major?

Yes?

How long will the war last ? Finally, in Italy.

I wish I could tell you.

Let's not talk about this war.

I hear about it all the time.

War, war ...

I am asking you for a very specific reason.

Will our prisoners return at the end of the conflict?

Some may return.

Why?

Has your lover been arrested?

I don't know if Giorgio was arrested or killed.

Giorgio?

We were going to get married.

What can I help you with?

Find out if he's been taken prisoner.

I have to go to all the detention centers and ask

to all men if he is Tina d'Adano's lover?

You must have lists.

This is not of my resort.

I am responsible for civil affairs.

Is that why you were kind to me?

That you invited me to your place?

Was it so I could find your lover?

Wait.

You know what it's like to be alone.

You are married.

Is she writing to you? Do you receive letters?

Where are you coming from?

Giorgio wrote to me every day

until the Americans arrived in Africa.

Do you know what it feels like not to hear from anymore,

to no longer know anything?

Yes...

I know.

You love your wife.

Why don't you tell me about it?

I'll understand.

I've been watching you, major.

Sometimes you seem sad.

Is it when you think of her?

Is it because my skin is dark?

Like his?

Sometimes,

when I see you ...

Sometimes during the night ...

You do what all men do when they are alone.

You are a long way from home.

You think of someone you love

and you miss her terribly.

Then you think of someone from here,

maybe me,

that reminds you of your wife.

You try to contain yourself,

but it's stronger than you.

How do you know all this?

Because sometimes the loneliness of a woman

is not that different from that of man.

Giorgio did not come home.

I'm sorry.

Did he mention me, Niccolo?

I will start at the beginning.

Something very strange happened to him.

It is said that sneezing is the beginning of death.

You feel the same when a bomb explodes near you.

If you get out of it, you know you were dead.

You can't die every day and stay the same person.

Giorgio often told us that we had to fight.

He spoke to us of honor.

I admired him even though we argued often.

I said we had to surrender

but Giorgio wanted to return to fight in Sicily.

Most of the soldiers wanted to surrender.

He told us about Dunkirk and the English.

He said Italy would need its best men.

Someone replied that there was no reason to defend fascism.

And Giorgio asked him: "So why have you been supporting him for 21 years?"

- Giorgio was a fascist? - No.

This is what is strange.

He was imprisoned in Adano for opposing fascism.

But in 1940 he was the first to follow Mussolini in this war.

On the coast, the fighting was fierce.

It was the night of July 14.

They said the Americans were going to attack us the next day.

When this rumor spread, the soldiers went mad.

They entered a wine estate and stole some wine.

They started to get drunk because they thought they were going to be prisoners.

The war was over, they wanted to have fun.

Twenty of them were drunk and threw bottles.

Giorgio got angry and wanted to stop them.

I told him they were too drunk to listen to him.

I told you it would be hard to hear.

Continue.

Giorgio se rendit la-bas.

There was a fire, although it was forbidden.

Giorgio stopped behind so they could see him,

and he cried.

They were all scared and drunk, they weren't listening to him.

Someone stood up and said something against Mussolini.

He threw down his bottle as if it was Mussolini.

Another insulted Hitler

and threw down his bottle.

Giorgio cria aussi.

They didn't listen to him or hear him.

He went to the wall and shouted:

"Stop it, you filthy traitors!"

Don't listen to any more.

Go on, tell me everything.

They stopped for a moment and one said:

"Isn't that Mussolini over there?"

They started to laugh.

The other says: "Yes, the war transformed him."

The other madman shouted: "I hate him!", And he threw a bottle at Giorgio.

No not like this...

The bottle did not reach him,

but he was wounded by shards of glass.

Blood was running down his face.

He was brave, you can be proud of him.

I begged him to come back, but he refused.

He was shouting, "We must fight! Do it for our nation!"

"We must die in battle like men!"

The others lined up and threw their bottles.

They no longer laughed.

Giorgio had touched a sensitive spot and they wanted him dead.

They were drunk. Only the third managed to touch him.

He was injured in the right shoulder. He didn't fall, but he was in pain.

It's horrible.

He began to shout religious things,

as "Lamb of God", "Sacred Heart of Jesus" ...

But they kept throwing bottles at him,

he could no longer speak.

It was then that they approached

by throwing the bottles closer and closer.

You want me to stop?

No, I want to hear it all.

He faints.

They hit him with the bottles.

They had gone mad, and hadn't been drinking for a long time.

They were no longer Italians or even men.

It could have happened in any army.

Thank you sir.

I was armed. I couldn't take it anymore, so I shot in the air.

But that didn't stop them.

I hit one with the butt.

Another approached with a bottle.

I pulled and broke the bottle

He started to scream and the others got scared.

They fled.

He was alive ...

I've tried everything, but ...

Did he say my name?

I saw many men die in this war,

none mentioned a woman's name.

We don't talk about that when we die.

We talk about our bellies, we pray ...

but we do not pronounce the name of women.

RETURN TO SHIPPER

- Hey, genius? - Yes?

How many times can you mistake someone for an idiot?

If he's smart, none.

You are serious!

Major, I got him back as quickly as possible.

Saboteur!

- Assassin! - Wait!

What did he do?

Major, I'll take care of the traffic.

It is important at this hour.

The trucks are coming.

Americans smile.

The children are running, they are delighted.

This is...

magnificent!

Then I saw him.

His cart was right in the middle ...

I show you.

The trucks are coming,

he is sitting here,

and sleeps.

I did my best.

I threw myself on his mule,

trying to make that stupid beast move .

It was then that this fool

jumped out of his cart.

He hits me, I hit him in turn.

He hits me, I hit him in turn.

I put it on the floor.

Saboteur!

I pull the mule again.

I shoot, I shoot ...

I kick him in the buttocks.

I hit her on the head.

I pull her ears.

She doesn't move.

Then American soldiers arrived.

They grabbed the beast,

and removed it from the road.

They returned to their trucks.

I found myself alone with this man.

This saboteur!

This assassin!

Thanks, Gargano. I think I got it.

What do you have to say in your defense?

I'm poor, major.

I have a cart.

It is all I have.

My wife died of malaria.

She was a very serious woman.

In 18 years, she hasn't laughed once.

I knew his wife. He's right, she never laughed,

but she cooked the rabbit well.

What is the relationship with your wife?

There are a lot of things I don't understand, major.

When I was young,

I was handsome.

Or at least that's what my wife, who was laughing at the time,

has told me.

We are talking about a cart blocking the road.

Should we listen to all this, major?

Let him finish.

I don't like it.

Even if he can speak faster than the others,

whether with the hands and the mouth,

I don't like it.

This has been the case for several years.

Your tastes don't interest me.

I feel

that laughter returned to Adano

since the invasion, major.

It is very obvious in children.

I was sitting on my cart

trying to figure out why they were laughing.

I hadn't noticed the American trucks.

I had noticed something else, major,

something that I had never noticed before.

My son, son of a poor man,

held the hand of the grandson of a rich man, Cacopardo,

and the two were laughing.

We quickly notice what the children are doing,

it's easy to see.

In older people these things are hidden.

But at any time what you see in children

can happen to older people.

I'm talking about laughing and holding hands.

If it was a mistake

to take an interest in children's laughter,

so that was a mistake.

But I believe my wife

would have laughed too, major,

seeing such a thing in Adano,

despite this error.

I understand what you mean about it all

and I'm glad you thought that of Americans,

but what you have done is wrong.

The order was to keep the road clear for military trucks.

Otherwise, no cart could pass.

He should be whipped!

He is right.

No one should make mistakes.

Even my wife would think the decision was right.

Perhaps, but the sentence is suspended.

Let him go, Gargano.

Go home.

Thanks, major.

I kiss your hand.

Why is no one responding?

This is Colonel Middleton.

Yes, General McKay.

Pardon?

You say our trucks were blocked by carts in Adano?

But I sent an order.

Yes sir.

Right away, general. Don't worry, I'll take care of it.

Operator!

Come on, answer!

Immediately hand me Major Joppolo to Adano.

- Who's he got, Han? - It's from Adano.

I don't want to hear from this city anymore !

The line is busy? Remember!

According to the oral instructions of Major Joppolo,

responsible for civil affairs in Adano,

he refuses General McKay's orders

and authorizes the entry of carts into the city.

Drop. Cancel the call.

I'll put it in writing.

- Write. - Yes sir.

Subject: Responsible for civil affairs of the city of Adano.

Major,

your bell.

That's wonderful! Exactly what i wanted!

You'll thank Toot Dowling.

You should write to him.

He is aboard the destroyer Corelli.

Of course I will write to him.

He gave us the bell of his boat.

It's not that of his boat, major.

This one is much bigger and older.

But Robertson said ...

They were classmates and played soccer.

When Robertson told him about the bell, he was ecstatic.

He wanted to send the one he had found at sea near the African coast.

She would come from a monastery.

I believe what is written on it is in Arabic.

Seriously? That's wonderful!

It's nothing.

If you have a problem, come see the Navy.

Wait, I'm going down.

We are honored, major.

Here it is, Father.

It only remains to mount it.

I took care of it. We don't do things by halves.

You think of everything.

Believe me, Captain, I take my hat off to the Navy.

Let's stop talking about it. By the way, major, just one thing

I am a lieutenant. Being a captain takes time.

Really? If it were up to me, you would soon be.

Chief, what does that mean?

I do not know. I think it's in Arabic.

Maybe Father Pensovecchio will know.

The people of Adano do not need to read it.

For us, it can only mean "love".

Yes?

- It's for Major Joppolo. - Give it to me.

What's going on, sergeant?

We got them a bell so they know when to eat.

What happened to you? You are sick?

You are as pale as a sheet.

The major was relieved of his duties.

Statement?

Yes. He is sent to Algiers for another mission.

Why?

He's doing well here. They can't do that.

He was dismissed for insubordination.

For having countered the order on the carts.

Well ... I'm sorry.

I didn't think it could happen.

The locals were going to have a party tonight in his honor.

I'll give it to him after the party.

- Major. - Lieutenant.

I present to you Miss Tomasino.

Miss Tomasino, the lieutenant.

And Ms. Tomasino.

You already know Mr. Tomasino.

Yes. How are you?

I am glad you came. She will accompany you.

It's very sweet, but ...

This is the first time this has happened.

Looks like the Navy is not up to the task.

- Why? - The bell.

The winch is not strong enough I asked for another one.

- She won't be in place tonight. - When will she be?

If we work tonight, tomorrow at 6 a.m.

- Very well. Thank you so much. - Thank you sir.

- I wish you could come. - Me too.

I hope you do n't change your mind about the Navy.

They arrive.

Major, we have something for you.

If you would like to accompany us.

Something? What?

- You will see. - This way please.

Please excuse me.

So? Why so much mystery?

Look! There, major.

So that's why you wanted my photo.

I have lived in Adano for years.

I never gave a speech and I won't start now,

but they asked me to tell you that ...

This portrait

is surely not the best that has been painted

although it would appeal to Ragiacuno.

Even though he was very bad,

we would like to offer it to you

because we want to prove to you that ...

This portrait ...

What Cacopardo means is that,

although the frame is not big enough

to cover the dirt left by its predecessor,

the eyes of this portrait are honest.

The chin illustrates your strength.

And the ears, your vigilance.

Your hairstyle and the way you wear your cap,

express your neat character.

We notice in this portrait that this man

wanted the happiness of the inhabitants of Adano.

This face is of a grandeur ...

Thank you.

Sergeant!

Get out! Get out of here!

- Give me that. - Give it back!

I have more orders to follow from you.

Sergeant Borth!

There is no longer a sergeant!

You no longer have the authority to lead.

Or at least not in Adano.

You are drunk!

You've been fired.

You understand?

They dismissed you, weighed on you , you understand?

You don't mean anything now.

Get out, leave me alone.

- Go to bed! - Do not touch me!

Read this.

Sergeant, when did you get it?

It happened today when you were away.

I wanted to show it to you after the party is over.

Major?

Tina...

I was waiting for you.

Excuse me.

I wanted to tell you why I like you.

Why?

For what you did for Adano.

It is for this reason that everyone appreciates you.

I know why I like you.

Why?

Because you make me feel important.

You are.

Until we meet again.

Why do you say that?

For nothing.

Because I want us to dance.

I don't want to say goodbye.

I don't know if I will be able to.

Forgive me for last night, sir.

My intentions were good.

I wanted you to have a good evening.

I know.

Make sure you help whoever takes my place.

Adano needs an understanding man.

Adano needs you, sir.

I think I have everything.

Good luck, sir.

END