Attention, please. To all our dear and loyal listeners
To mothers, fathers and relatives - Stella Film announces a contest
They're looking for a girl between six and eight years of age
A pretty Italian girl
Take your daughters to Stella Film offices...
...in Cinecittà Via Tuscolana, km 9
It could be your and her lucky day
Only girls between six and eight years of age...
...can enter the theatre quietly and calmly...
...to be seen by Blasetti, the director
Keep quiet and stay calm!
Do you understand?
Hurry! Hurry!
- I've lost my daughter - She lost her daughter. Vito!
Where is she gone?
- What's her name? - Maria Cecconi
Little Maria Cecconi!
Quiet! Quiet, please. There
Politeness goes a long way
In other words, we'll be able to screen test your little girls...
...if you keep calm and quiet. Right? Good
- Shall we start, Taparelli? - Yes, we're ready
- Glori, send the first child - The first child!
The first child, come on
What can you do?
I can imitate Betty Gable
That's great. Let's see
Well done, you're really good
- You're starting early. How old are you? - 11
Good. Give her a number. Next one, please
Quiet, over there
Come on. Keep that child quiet
- What can you do? - "Arrivano i Nostri"
Good. Start singing "Arrivano i Nostri"
Good
Very good
Yes, louder
Very good. Chiari, give her a number
- Next! - Tell them to be quiet over there
You have a Chinese hat, good. Quiet!
I've spent hours looking for you
How could I go home without you?
Look at the state of you
Just look at that. Get up now. You deserve to be smacked!
Why are you crying? Look at the state of you
Damn it! You drive me mad. They even called you over the megaphone
- Mummy! - "Mummy" what?
What did she do wrong?
What did she do? She nearly gave me a heart attack
I've been looking for her all over Cinecittà
- They won't let us in now - Are you here for the contest?
Yes, we are. But look at the state of her now
She looks worse for wear. Come here
If I were you, I'd leave her like that
All dirty? Yeah, right
They're much cuter like this, all grubby and untidy
Very funny
She's got a pretty smile. She's very photogenic
And she's got beautiful eyes. Let's see
Really beautiful
At least it's something. Let's hope they'll pick you
Gosh, I'm lost now
- They're at number 5 - Number 5?
- Studio number 5 - And how do I get there?
- Calm down, I'll take you there - Will you?
How kind of you. Let's go. I'll settle up with you when we get home
This is the girl who got lost
- Let the lady through here - If you say so
I've brought some photos of her. Do you think it's a good idea?
Pretty. This child is really pretty
- Well, at this age, they're all pretty - Yeah?
They're all pretty, but I prefer their mothers
May I give you a piece of advice?
The second audition will be harder and these photos won't help you much
- Are they ugly? - A bit
You need bigger and better ones
Go to a professional photographer. I can give you a name
- That would be great - Tell him I sent you
Alberto Annovazzi, that's my name
The photographer is in Via Quattro Fontane, number 14
- Go and see him, he's great - I'll definitely go
- Thanks a lot - Don't mention it
I don't know how to thank you
- Can I go in? - This way, it leads straight to the studio
- I'm so lucky I met you - Best of luck
- Say bye - Bye, and don't run off again
- I'm holding her tight - Good
- Goodbye - Goodbye, madam
Painter, I need to talk to you
While you paint this altar
I am just a poor black man
And to pray God here I am
I know you'll be listening...
Excuse me. I should have been up there long ago
I had lost my daughter
Excuse me
- Did you find her? - She's found her!
Good evening, Mr Blasetti
Madam, stand back
Good, well done
But she's finished singing
Mancinelli Silvana? Mario! Give her a number
OK, now the next child
Next child, come on
Madam, who are you?
The incident's over! Go back to your seats!
- Enough! - That's it, the incident's over
This is the child who got lost
- Oh, yeah - I lost sight of her
This place is like a town. She was somewhere around there
- Where did you find her? - By the pool
Ladies, quiet please
Quiet, please
- Where did you find her? - By the pool, she was fishing!
- She got dirty - Yes, she ruined her dress
Cute. What's your name?
- Maria - Say your name
- Maria - Very good. Maria what?
- Maria... - "Gecconi"
- "Giacconi"? - No, she lisps slightly
- So, what's her real surname? - Cecconi
Cecconi, good. Repeat, "Maria Cecconi"
- Maria "Gecconi" - Oh well, it must sound right to her
When I made the announcement you were outside looking for your child...
...but I said that the child has to be six or seven years old
- Not younger - But she's seven
Is she? She looks a bit... small
Really? No, it must be the dress that makes her look short
In all truth, she hasn't grown much this year
She'll grow more next year, it doesn't matter
So, what can you do? Do you dance? Sing? What can you do?
- Venice! - You do Venice
Mr Blasetti won't understand if you say that
- She means a poem about Venice - Ah, OK
Good. You can begin reciting the poem. Go on
"Venice, to thee comes at last the last hour
"Martyr illustrious, in thy foe's power
"Bread lacks, the cholera deadlier grows
"From the lagoon bridge the white banner blows"
Did you teach her that? She's a star
Not even at Christmas did she recite it so well
Just for you
You know what? We need to hurry
It's two o'clock, and if we get to the stadium late...
...it will be full and we'll have to stand up like idiots
- Let's hurry - I don't feel like going anymore
What do you mean? You're not coming to the match?
Bruno, did you hear that?
You know that I'm worried
She left early in the morning and took the child with her
I'm not in the mood, Franco. Don't insist
She told you she was going to give an injection in Monteverde, at her friend's
Why would she go all the way to Monteverde to give shots?
Exactly
It's Sunday and the tram costs 20 lire each way...
...and the child pays full fare
- I know - Your wife is mad. Tell her that
Franco, drink your coffee
See what you've done? This moron's always laughing
Whatever. Drink your coffee and shut up
Give me a chance, it's still boiling hot
Mum, I won't even bother about her. She always does as she likes anyway
- She has to respect you - Yeah, exactly. She has to respect you
You know what? I don't think she's gone to Monteverde
What are you talking about? She's taken the child with her
That's exactly why I think she hasn't gone there
Let's go, guys. It's three o' clock and we're still here discussing
- Let's go, it's late - Let's go Spartaco, come on
- Come home early - Give her another kiss
Mum, you never change. OK, I've made a mess of myself
I'll clean you up. Bye
Kiss my forehead
Have fun, don't catch too much sun
- OK - When you see Maddalena tell her...
Yes, I'll tell her not to go away again with the child
It's two o' clock and she still hasn't eaten
- Bye - Goodbye
- See you - Enjoy yourselves
- It's late - Bye
Hurry up
Shut up
Spartaco, there's your wife
- And you were worried - There she is
Where have you been all this time?
- Spartaco! - Slow down. What's the rush now?
- I went there! - Where?
To Cinecittà, for the contest
- Are you mad? - Maybe
- In any case, they picked her - Who?
Our daughter, not me. I wish!
- Don't lie, you're always telling lies - I'm not lying
Don't even bother, she always does what she wants
She's all talk. Let's hurry, guys, the match will have started
Mind your own business for once
- Don't use that tone with him - Whatever
I'll come to watch the match too
- No, you go home and feed the child - Your mum can feed her
- No, you feed her! - Take me to the cinema tonight
Forget it. We'll talk at home
- Let's go, Franco - What?
- Keep yakking - Stop it, idiot
We're going to the cinema tonight, right?
Don't act the fool. Just go home and feed the child
How nice. Let's go, darling. Bye, darling
One, two, three, four
Mrs Molteni!
What do you want?
Shout louder, I can't understand you
It's all because of this damn noise
They wake people up early in the morning. What do you want then?
Is my mum up there?
No, she isn't here, Maria
She's gone to Margherita's for the injection. Let me call her for you
Maddalena!
- Maddalena! - What?
- Maria is looking for you - Who?
- Your daughter is looking for you - What do you want, Maria?
Mum, there's a lady who wants a coffee
I can't hear you!
There's a lady who wants a coffee!
Honey, don't hold me up, I'm giving an injection. I'll be right down
Be good. Thanks
Mum said she's coming down
She's busy giving a lady an injection
You see this egg?
God helps those who help themselves
- Your daughter's been calling you - I know, my dear
- Is she ill? - Not at all. She's been picked
We're going to the photographer. When are you going to have this baby?
What are you doing here? Don't you have a house? What a pain!
Those lovely images
The times that have gone by...
Gisella, can you please ask your daughter to do Maria's homework?
We're going to the photographer. She's been picked
She's been picked! Bye
Good for you
What a fanatic, she's completely mad
Don't choke, please
Is this the lady who wanted a coffee?
Sorry, but I had a cramp... in my stomach
I asked the child for some coffee
I know. We don't have that, but you found the eggs
- They're better - Yeah, they're even better
By the way, who are you?
- How silly of me. You don't know me - Exactly
I'm Tilde Spernanzoni
- The actress - What?
The actress
I'm not working anymore... l'm tired
When you get to a certain age, you must rest
Moreover, you have to make way for the younger generation
I do a bit of film work
Mum, the lady drunk an egg
It doesn't matter
Little blabbermouth
So, is this the child that has been selected for the second audition?
Listen, who sent you here? Cinecittà? Stella Film? Who?
Somebody must have sent you here. You can't have fallen from the sky!
Somebody I know gave me the names of the ones who were picked
She's very pretty
Give me your hand
Let's go, good girl
While mum prepares a nice cup of coffee with plenty of sugar...
...you are going to recite something for me
What a lovely garden!
Excellent. Let's go
Yeah, this place is like a palace! Thank goodness we're moving
Where are you going? I know for a fact that lessons aren't necessary
They like her like this
As long as she's bright and intelligent
And my daughter is very intelligent
- Plus, we can't afford it - I see
Sacrifices need to be made for our children
Our children come before anything else. Let's go
Did you come here to teach me how to be a good mother?
You're holding us up, we need to go to the photographer
How do I have to tell you?
- Go there later - What do you mean, later?
Where are you going?
Maria, recite her the poem, you know it by heart, so we can get rid of her
Yes, recite me the poem in the garden
Who sent her here?
Who on earth sent her here? I really don't know
You come home and find a crazy person waiting there
She tells you her whole life - she's an actress, she's tired...
I've got my own problems already, I didn't need her here
She's wasting our time. "Now I'm tired, I no longer teach..."
No, she's far from being crazy
She may be tired, but she drank three eggs
She doesn't have any manners
I'd better lock the meat up
We're wasting half an hour to let her hear a poem
This is ridiculous
We'll miss our appointment with the photographer
Doesn't she have anything better to do?
Wouldn't she rather be at the park, where it's much cooler?
Instead of drinking other people's eggs! I can't stand her
This business about the eggs is really bugging me
- Madam, listen - Is the coffee ready?
It's coming. Would you like it sweet?
The child is very good. But she'll get to poetry later. Now, it's too soon
It's tiring for her. I'm going to teach her something new
Let's find a quiet spot, let's see
Here's perfect
Give me your hand, follow me
Come here, dear
You'll see what I'm going teach you. This is a lovely place
Come here. Good girl
Pretend that you are in a meadow
A nice, large, green and cool meadow
You have come here to pick strawberries
- Understand? - Madam! Madam! She's deaf too
The first exercise is role-playing
Basically, you pretend to be in a certain situation
Do you like strawberries?
So you're happy to be picking strawberries
Look how many strawberries there are under that oak
She's mad, where does she see an oak?
Quick, go and pick them
Bend down. Good girl
Pick them, there are so many. Look how many
And she's so silly to listen to her. Madam, you're turning her brain to jelly
Maria, what are you doing?
She's picking strawberries
Can't you see? She's picking strawberries
Give it to me, dear. What a nice strawberry
Bend down and pick it. Good girl. See? They don't understand anything
If she doesn't leave...
Hurry! How long does it take you to come here, darling?
We're running late
She was driving us crazy. Who is she?
You must only listen to mum
Come on, we're late
Wash your hands now
Here's some water. Get the soap, come on. Hurry up
Look at the state of you. Were you in the coal shed?
How slow are you?
Can you not be any quicker? Rinse your hands, come on
And also your face
Look at the state of you. In the meanwhile, I'll get ready
What a strange person that woman
"Go and pick the strawberries"
She was just joking, darling. She was teaching you how to act
Yes, to act...
After all, what is acting?
If I imagined to be someone else...
...if I pretended to be someone else...
...l'd be acting
You're not interested, are you?
It's like when you say the nice poem about the butterfly. How does it go?
"I'm a butterfly, half white and half yellow"
The one where you move your hands like this
Say the poem
"I'm a butterfly half white and half yellow"
What about the hands?
Gosh! You see? You can act too
You can act
But make sure you don't stutter, honey
Don't stutter, OK?
Let's go, we're late
Listen to her and you'll end up picking strawberries
You listen to mummy. The other mums here make me laugh
"My daughter this, my daughter that" They're just not made for this
But you're my daughter and you can become an actress
You really can. I could have too, if I had wanted to
Let me fix your hair. You look so messy
Let's see how you look with a centre parting
No, you look ugly. Never mind
All combed back, like mummy
Let's see
How pretty!
Let me undo your plaits
Let's see. These plaits!
You're so pretty
You look more simple and natural in this way
We'll have your photograph taken but it's all we can afford
Do you understand, honey?
Mum, am I going back to school tomorrow?
Dear Lord! Now you're both stuttering and lisping
- Say "school" - School
- School
Are you doing this on purpose?
You never stuttered or lisped before. Say "school"
- School - Great
Pronounce it properly, you can't speak Roman dialect...
...if you want to be an actress
- Come here. Say "house" - House
- House
This is a real problem. And now "soap"
- Soap - No, say it properly, without lisping
- Soap - Soap
You're making me lisp too, darling
Get your shoes. Go and get dressed over there
Go and put your shoes on, then put the dress on
Careful not to mess up your hair
Here we go again! Every time I open the window, you're there
Get out of the way, please!
He's got no shame. And he's so young
This is crazy. They come right into your own house!
Yes, in your own house. Gosh, I'm lisping too now
What's going on here?
Are you ready, Maria?
Don't mess up your hair when you put the dress on, or I'll smack you!
That's too high
Are you ready?
We're always rushing around
Are you still there? How annoying
What if that crazy woman was right?
Maybe you do need to study...
Maybe lisping runs in the family. Maria, are you ready?
What does she look like? Let me see her
There you go. Excuse me
How are you sitting her?
Like this
That's not good. Make her look more natural
Mind your own business
Excuse my wife. She's been invalid so long, and this is her only distraction
Let's be quick
You can start choosing a pose
- Sit up straight, petal - Do as I said
I thought you knew each other
After all, you're both auditioning...
...and are acquaintances of Annovazzi
Me? I hardly know him
Maria, lift up your chin
Come on
Lift up your chin. Keep your head straight
I met him for the first time at Cinecittà and he was interested in the child
Look that way. Don't cry, sweetheart
We'll take a nice picture of you. Aren't you happy?
He suggested I come to see you
He liked her eyes the most
Yes, her eyes
Darling, why are you crying?
Poor thing, she's not used to this. She's scared
Smile, come on
I see your child takes ballet classes
- They have to dance in the film, right? - No, they don't. Who said so?
I thought they had to, because one of the other girls who came here...
...was at the Opera School - The Ruscaja School
- No, the Opera School - The Ruscaja School
How annoying!
Excuse me, are you really sure they have to dance?
In the novel the film is based on, the child dances
I've read it. The novel starts in that way
I don't want to insist, but I think you're wrong
It doesn't start in that way, it starts with her saying she has had enough
It starts like that. And the child dances around the table on her birthday
No, she tells him that she's leaving him
He wants to kill her, and the daughter, who is so happy because of the party...
...is dancing and fooling around the table, where the cake is
- In the book the child dances - Excuse me
Anyway, the more they can do, the better
Dancing is not necessary
- Are you ready, sweetheart? - Wait, I'll fix her hair
Madam, keep out of the way
Smile to the man, look at the camera
Done!
- You almost set me on fire - It was fine
You scared her, she probably closed her eyes
No, she had her eyes wide open
- Are you sure? - Don't worry, madam
- That's all I'm interested in - Madam, I'm very busy
- I'm the photographer - OK, no need to get upset
- It's Isabella's turn - Darling, were your eyes open?
- Yes - You tell a lot of lies. Were you scared?
Or else we're wasting time and money here
Excuse me, when can I see the negatives?
Come back tomorrow morning
- Can I please come this evening? - I can't have them ready tonight
- Come back tomorrow morning - You're so kind
Do you want to take it home? I'll get you one like it
We're late. Take the bag. Dad must be starving
- Goodbye and many thanks - Not at all
These photos are very important. I'm in your hands
- Don't worry - Goodbye
- Don't worry - Say bye to the gentleman
- Say bye - Bye, sweetheart
The needle's ready Just keep steady...
- Are you ready, madam? - Yes, I am
Good, me too
Choose a place where you want to have the injection
I've found it. It's on the right side
But you've got so many bruises on that side
But it hurts on the other side
OK, then. Let's do it on the right side
But if it hurts, don't complain
- Is it Penicillin today? - No, you are done with that
- So what is it? - We're starting the Balerofosforo again
- I've had a whole box of that - But you need more. You're worn-out
Just look at the white of your eyes
You're big built, but very weak
- I hope it works - What a chatterbox!
You're making me waste so much time, when I'm so busy. Are you ready?
- I'm ready - Can I use your phone later, please?
Are you still lying there? Come on, just find a place
I have to call my daughter. We've had the photographs taken
They're really nice. Come on, turn over
You're going to set the bed on fire
Come on, turn over
- Don't hurt me - Look at all this abundance
- Who enjoys all of this? - Who knows?
- Relax your leg - Don't hurt me
I'm in a rush. I have to go to see the Commendatore afterwards
- He's diabetic, poor thing - Poor him
- You drink, eat and smoke too much - They're my vices
- I can't help it - Come on, relax your leg
Don't hurt me
- You hurt me! - You make me sweat when I come here
You haven't even felt the needle
I have such a light hand
The Commendatore says that he wants only me for his injections
- He must be in love - I don't care, as long as he has them
All done. You're as good as new now
- Can I do this phone call now? - Of course
Thanks. If you don't mind, I'll take the phone over there...
...because I don't want to spill anything
- OK - Do you have guests today?
- No, it's my breakfast - No less!
- Do you eat four eggs? - I need to get back on my feet
Your liver must be bombproof!
- Madam, why is she complaining? - No idea
- Do you need an injection too? - No, I don't need it, right, madam?
Of course you need it. You have so much room in that body
You're fat but I'll help you slim down
Where did you find her?
Hello? Mrs Gisella?
Hi. This is Mrs Cecconi
Yes. Can you do me a favour?
Thanks. My daughter is in the courtyard
Could you tell her... No, don't worry about going downstairs
Just tell her from the balcony...
...that I'm not coming back...
...and she is to carry on with her lesson
The acting lesson. She's in the courtyard with her teacher
And tell her that we'll collect that stuff tomorrow
A black cat crossed my path, how unlucky
What's he doing?
Has he died?
- Who is it? - Finally
It's me, Mrs Cecconi. Good morning
Oh, yes. Sorry
- She's locked herself in - Come in
Another black cat
- Don't be afraid - No. How's the barrister?
- God! Another one - Let me tell you
He's not well. He's got high temperature again
The doctor said to start again taking the Streptomycin every 12 hours
And not to stop, even if his temperature goes down
- Of course - You thought this was your last visit
Instead, you'll have to come back many more times
- Luckily - What do you mean?
No, I meant, luckily for him I can come back
I'll be right there
I'll take the syringe and I'll be there in a minute
I'll be very quiet
He's not well, after all... Good for me!
Five days, and the dress is paid. Thank you, St Joseph. You're so good to me
I'll light a candle to you when it's all finished
- Eleonora, what are you doing? - Wait, I'm coming
Hurry, don't keep the lady waiting
- This is all the tulle I've found - What are you talking about?
- The stockroom is full - That's all I've found
- You're talking rubbish - Look, madam
- Do you like it? - Beautiful. It looks as soft as a cloud
- Let me touch it - Sure
- Isn't it a bit hard? - Look at this other one
It's a pre-war fabric. I can give you a good price
- This looks better. It's very soft - See?
This is the pattern - a fluffy tulle skirt...
...and the sleeveless satin leotard. Have you seen "The Red Shoes"?
I'll make you something like that. You'll be pleased with it
You'll be beautiful, darling. Do you like it?
- I'm a bit concerned about the price - Don't worry. I'll give you a good price
I have had to spend a lot of money recently for my little girl...
...so I thought I'd mention this just in case
I'm a nurse, so should you need any injections...
Are you joking? I hope I won't need them
I am in very good health
You don't need to have injections only when you're ill
You can also have them when you're well, to keep in good shape
Did you come here to jinx me?
No, but maybe you have a relative who needs treatment
I'm fine, I don't need any injections
The same goes for my family. Right, girls? I don't buy into these sort of things
Come here, darling, I'll measure you
Up here, come on
That one is so cute. She must be my daughter's age
- Yeah, she's young - Yes
Goodness gracious!
Excuse me, madam. Why is she always keeping her close to the wall?
She'll hurt herself
Don't worry, she won't hurt herself. It takes time
We don't have time, we're in a hurry. She should put her with the others
Don't you agree, madam?
She's still keeping her by the wall
Excuse me, but why is my daughter always stuck by the wall?
Couldn't you put her with the others?
They've been studying for three years
You came in here saying, "Make her dance like a butterfly"
What do you expect?
And she's so small
Why, how old does she need to be?
- Eight - We can't wait another three years
Say what you want, my dear. She's got tiny legs...
She's got two perfectly straight legs, can't you see?
Having straight legs is not enough
You need other things, such as intelligence
You dance with your head, not your feet
What?
You dance with your head, not your feet
My daughter has brains, she was born healthy, my dear lady!
This is your opinion. I'm starting to get annoyed
We are the teachers. We say if a child is intelligent or not
I can say that because I'm her mother
My daughter is not dumb
Sweetheart
Why are you crying, my darling?
They're not going to hurt you. You'll become a good dancer
Look how good that one over there is
See? Don't you want to become like her?
You'll become very good too
Did you have to make her cry? How rude
Let's go home now. Show me a nice smile
Don't let daddy see you cry
I understand that the child is a bit disheartened now...
...but I'm telling you now that in this place people study very hard
I've been dancing for 40 years, but if I didn't practice everyday...
...I wouldn't be able to do arabesques and all the rest
See?
- Very good - Placida, tell the lady
Yes, madam. In here, you have to study and sweat
- Sweat and sweat - That's right
- Hi, Spartaco - So, now you go out even after dinner?
And you take the child too
What else could I do? You were not here, I couldn't leave her at home alone
- Where have you been? - I went to give injections
Say hi to dad
Hello, darling. Give daddy a big kiss
- Maddalena - Yes?
The instalments have gone up from 60,000 lire to 65,000 lire
- Why? - Because of the lift
We didn't count that. But everybody paid for it, and so will we
What did you get up to?
- Tell daddy - I'm tired
Little petal
This is the new house that daddy has bought for you. Here we'll put your bed
And daddy will buy you a Pinocchio
Do you know the story of Pinocchio?
The boy whose nose grew longer because of all the lies he told
He lied to his father, an old man who...
Here there's only 60,000 lire
I don't have any money left
What am I going to do?
Spartaco, is the instalment definitely due next Monday?
Yes, on Monday
It's only an extra 5,000 lire and I have a few people who owe me money
You haven't fed the child
As if I was starving her
Anything else?
She had a big cup of coffee with milk and two cookies
Tell him
Mum is going to undress you
- Let me do it - Careful, you'll tear her dress
OK, do it yourself then
- Give it to me - Dad will put you to bed
Tomorrow I'll take you out and buy you a nice ice cream
Ice cream makes her tummy ache
Maddalena, go next door
Sure, you know I do whatever you say
Did you see how tired she looks?
Leave me alone
How pretty. The baby of the house
Do you love your dad? Give me a big kiss and a pinch
Listen, don't tell anything to mum
Tomorrow dad will buy you an ice cream
Are you happy?
I have a lesson tomorrow
A lesson? No, tomorrow you go out with dad, no lesson
Give me a big kiss
And now go to sleep
If they're tired, they won't escape
Don't drive them too hard the whole time...
See? It's Montgomery Cliff
He's nice, isn't he?
Maddalena, forget about cinema
Spartaco, you don't understand me
Look at those beautiful places
And look where we live
When I see these things...
Maddalena, it's a fantasy world
It's not
Look. They're taking the wagon across
Unbelievable
The horses are in the water
Lucky them
It's great, isn't it?
How beautiful
I'm falling asleep
- I can't keep my eyes open - Come on, let's go to bed
- Listen, with this ticket you can't... - No, I'm first!
- I'm in front of her - Madam, stop being so pushy
- I'm not pushy - Calm down
He's holding my ticket and you still come here and say you are first
- Where do I go? - The room next door
- What is the matter with you? - So many injustices in this world
- She just doesn't shut up - So pushy
- Don't you ever get tired? - I'm so tired I can hardly stand up
It doesn't look like it
Look, madam. I had my granddaughter's photograph taken...
...but I made her stand up because I think she looks better
- Definitely - We only took one, it was so expensive
- They told me one is enough - Of course it's enough
- Did you want to bring the whole film? - True
My child has only got one too
The photographer wanted to take it while she was dancing
I told him that she'd show what she can do at the audition
This is if they choose her for the audition
I've heard that they've already made their choice
We're all wasting our time here
I wouldn't be saying this if I hadn't seen it with my own eyes
- What have you seen? - Tell us
Well, yesterday I came here because I got the days mixed up...
Mixed up! No, she did that on purpose to get here before all of us
No, madam, I genuinely made a mistake
Basically, they were doing their special auditions
Yes, for those who were recommended
I've seen it with my own eyes. There was a lady with a child...
...and she didn't ask for the director
- She asked for the other one - Who?
The fat and ugly one. The one that yells into the megaphone all the time
The nasty one
- Glori! - So what?
As soon as he saw her, he said that the girl was very pretty
What's wrong with that? My child's pretty too
He was saying how pretty she was, but he was looking at the mother
- Ah, now I understand - That's how it goes nowadays
It doesn't mean anything. You're just making a big deal out of it
Do they think we are all stupid here?
Probably, but I know exactly what that lady is talking about
But we'll go and speak to the producer, the director...
...and we'll tell them that this is a disgrace
It's clear that there are favourites, while we should all be equal
Yes, this isn't fair. We have to do something about it
Actually, I think my husband knows someone who works here
I'll call him and ask him to put a good word for me with Stella Film
My husband is a friend of one of the phone company directors'
What have the phone company directors got to do with this?
Well, he's an important person, that's all that matters
Don't make us laugh. If we want, we can all find someone to pull strings for us
We can all find someone important
I have a relative who knows a waiter in Cinecittà
He knows him very well. He's got such a good job...
Excuse me, what are you doing?
Federico, I'm in a rush
- Good morning - Bath or shower?
No, thanks. We just need a trim and set
That way, please. Amerigo, a haircut!
- Don't we need the receipt? - No, it's OK
- Thanks - Can you add colour as well?
- Are you joking? - She needs lighter hair
Lighten it? If I take her home blonde, all hell will break loose
It's just a slight...
She only needs a trim and some curls
One moment, after this lady it's your turn
What? Where are you? They're making us waste time here
- If it's only five minutes... - Listen to me
- We'll give you a good tip - That's not the point
But it's going to take two minutes. Come here, darling, let me show him
It's just a trim...
...and a couple of curls over the shoulders
Can't you see that I'm busy with this lady?
- But she's almost finished - I haven't finished
I've paid, I have my rights
Do you want to stay here until tomorrow?
I have another client waiting. You don't have an appointment
But it will take you two minutes, do me a favour
- Leave her there, I'll serve her later - You're so moody
- Do the balloons bother you? - It's OK
You're so kind. See how kind this man is, darling?
Sit here. Give me the balloons so I'll tie them here
- Do they bother you here? - No
They'll keep you company. Mum will be right back
- Be good. Will we make it back in time? - Yes, I think so
If I don't come back, Mrs Spernanzoni will come and pick you up
If I can't make it, a blond lady will come on my behalf
She's a middle-aged lady. Her name is Tilde Spernanzoni
She looks a bit odd. She's her acting teacher
- You'll recognize her immediately. OK? - I don't want to stay here!
What do you mean? You have to
They'll make you so beautiful
If you have to stay with her, we can go another day
No, it's not possible
OK. Remember to lighten her hair to make it a softer shade
- You want colour - No, she's not having it coloured
Not a real dye. Just highlights, natural streaks
Just lighter streaks?
- And a light perm - No, don't ruin her hair
Not a perm, just a set. Her hair's too fine and won't stay in place otherwise
- She took it from me - I could give you a nice hair-do too
Don't even try, no one has managed that
- I could manage - You'd waste your time
Anyway, how much is it?
- 1,250 lire - Shall I pay over there?
- Let's go - Be good
Make sure you just trim her hair, and curl it a little...
...so that when I comb it, it's all fluffy
- Be good, darling - Let's go
Mum is coming back
I don't want to stay here!
Hey, you're not alone, the gentleman is here
- Be good - Bye
I don't want to stay here!
Don't start. If you behave, I'll buy you some sweets afterwards
Be good and I'll curl your hair nicely
Amerigo, you have to set my hair. It's still all wet
Michele will take care of you. Just a minute
- I don't want Michele - Michele, come here
Coming!
I want to go home! I want my mum!
- Yes, Amerigo? - Trim this child's hair
How can I? I'm very busy
- Call Guido - OK, I'll call Guido
- Hurry up! - I went to get the shampoo
- You're always complaining - Come on
- I want to see my mum! - Guido, give her a trim
I want to see my mum!
Just give the child a trim, then maybe she'll pipe down
- Amerigo, are you ready? - Coming
- Just a simple trim, OK? - Yes
- I'll take care of her - Amerigo, hurry up
- I'm coming - Just a little trim?
- Yes, just a trim - Let's cut it here... And here
I had an appointment and now I am late because of a child
- That's one done - This is ridiculous
- Amerigo - I'm coming
And that's the second one. Are you happy?
Are you happy, miss? Is that OK?
I wonder what you must be thinking of me since I asked you to meet me
What can I think? When a beautiful lady asks to meet me...
...I think well, very well of her
If you see it like this, even better
I'm not used to long walks anymore
Listen, be honest
Do you think my daughter can make it?
I'm a little discouraged
For no reason, you convince yourself that something is very easy to get...
...and then you don't think so anymore
You start feeling worried
I'm not sure if you know what I mean
I wouldn't want to make so many sacrifices...
...and then see someone who's been recommended win
You do understand me, don't you?
Yes, but it depends on you
What do you mean?
- A recommendation can help or hinder - No, no. It helps
We're so used to recommendations, both to making and receiving them
If they were really worth something, unemployment wouldn't exist
In Italy we rely on recommendations, "Please, don't forget"
"I assure you", "I promise you"... But we can't remember everyone
Who are we supposed to remember and why?
- There's only one foolproof method - What is it?
Putting the person who needs help...
...in a position to ask for your help, do you know what I mean?
- No - Do you already want to leave?
No, it's so lovely here
I've never been here before
Actually, I've been here on a Sunday, but it was too crowded
Today it's very pleasant
Yes, it's very nice, but it's not a place to come to alone
You should come here with someone nice
- Am I nice? - Very
In that case, do me this favour, please
- You're the nicest - Even better
I want my daughter to have the best recommendation ever
When the audition is over, I'll sleep better
Look, it's as if she'd already auditioned, the result is certain
But it all depends on you, it's very simple
Now I understand. Do you know what we say in Rome?
"Nothing given, nothing received"
- You're not only funny but also clever - Everybody says so
- And you're quick-witted - That's right
To make a big profit, one must take a big risk
50,000 lire sounds fair to me
You must be out of your mind. 50,000 is a lot of money
It's not peanuts
Nowadays, 50,000 is nothing
Maybe to you, but to me it means a lot of sacrifices
In our case, it's the bare minimum to achieve our goal
I'll manage the 50,000 lire and get you a contract
You'll earn, at least, a million which is 20 times the amount you staked
Do you think I'll be spending it?
The money's not for me but for the favours we need to do in return
Who will you do these favours to?
To everyone and no one
A bunch of flowers to the producer's wife, a bottle of perfume to his lover...
...who is often the wife of the leading actor
Things like that happen. It's not that they need it...
...but it helps them to remember a name
In this case, your name - Cecconi
"Mrs Cecconi, who sent that gift, is very kind", and so on
The word will spread quickly
Have you ever thrown a pebble into a pond? The pebble falls in just one spot...
...but from that spot waves ripple out until they reach the ocean
- How shrewd you are - Shrewd?
It's a practical way of getting through life
Listen, do I have to take this risk without any guarantees?
What risk would it be otherwise?
Do you want a guarantee?
I'll give it to you. Your child will have a screen test
All right?
I'm in
It's a deal. Because I do have that sum
I even brought my savings book with me, you see?
The problem is, I need the money straight away
It doesn't matter
Let's hurry. Banks are closed now...
...but a friend of mine will take my book and give me the money
And then she'll withdraw the money tomorrow
Listen, if it's a problem for you...
...shall we just forget about it?
Moreover...
...I wouldn't want to have a business relation with you
With you I'd prefer, maybe...
...I don't know...
I prefer it this way. It's much better
Let's hurry, it's late
- Did you bring the money? - Of course. Here it is
One, two, three, four, 50,000
- Where's the scooter? - Out here
Here it is. Do you like it?
You and your beautiful smile
You are easing my pain
You know that you can't stay away from me
I see you, my beloved
You and your beautiful smile
Tell her that there's no one else in my heart
Tell her that I love her more than ever before...
- It's not my fault - Look at the state of that girl
Where's her mother?
Who's complaining? All I'm saying is, I've had enough!
The child has learned enough
Do you expect me to thank you after you've ruined her?
Of course. I'm used to being thanked and respected
I thank you and respect you. My wife has paid you, this is the door. Out!
Your wife is the only one who understands art
Art, sure!
- Come on, I said get out - Watch your language
Why are you shouting like this?
- Are you mad? What's happening? - It happens that I've had enough
I don't want any strangers in my house
I won't leave my daughter with her
In my life, I've never been lucky, but I have been respected a lot
Who should be interested in your daughter anyway?
- Don't exaggerate - No, madam
I've been patient but now I've had enough
Do you understand me? I've had enough!
Will you stop making a scene?
- Get out, that's the door - Spartaco, please
Let me say something
Darling. What happened?
Are you asking her? Where were you?
You left the child with this wretch
- Are you calling me wretch? - Yes, wretch!
- I'll report you to the police - Spartaco, don't make such a fuss
It looks shorter because she's got curly hair
I'll wet it and straighten it out
- Yeah, make her catch bronchitis - I won't make her catch anything
Madam, why didn't you keep an eye on her?
- Look at the state of her - I'm not paid to look after her
I'm an actress
Yes, but you also have eyes. Or just because you're an actress...
...if they cut her head off you stand by and watch?
This is the door, get out
- Excuse me - Who is she?
Is Mrs Cecconi here?
- That's me - Fracassini the dressmakers
Shall I leave it here?
Did I get here in time? I have the invoice with me
- I must collect the money - Thank you
What did they do to you? You have short hair
Don't take me for a fool. Pay up what you owe me
That's 1,260 lire
1,000 for yesterday's and today's lessons...
...200 lire for the child's haircut...
...and 60 lire for the tram. Don't forget it
Don't get stressed. We'll pay in full. I'll see to it
You won't see to anything. You've got to stop this nonsense
- Hands off, Spartaco - How much do we owe you?
There, 1,260. Now, go
- I'm 10 lire short - We'll give it to you
- You can keep it - How generous. Now, go!
- Scoundrel! - Out!
You did the right thing by cutting her hair short
It will make her feel cooler, isn't that right?
Why don't you just leave?
- What's in there? - Don't touch it. It's mine. Don't ruin it
- I paid it with my money - It's not true
I never asked you for any money
Spartaco, I beg you, let's not fight over it
No, Spartaco! You only act like this because I'm weaker
Can't you see you're scaring the child?
It's been a week from hell here. You didn't take care of the house at all
- Am I not in charge anymore? - I've had enough of you
I've done far too much for you
I've done far too much for you! Get out!
- Get out! - I'm going to kill you!
- Go on, kill me, you lout! - Am I a lout?
Concierge! Come down!
He's killing Mrs Cecconi!
Concierge!
- What's going on? - Go inside. They're killing each other
- Concierge! - I'm coming, just a minute!
- I can't risk breaking a leg - It's the Cecconi's again
They're always fighting, damn it!
Are you going to stop it or not?
Spartaco, today you've really crossed the line
Don't cry, darling
I'm leaving this house. Let's go
Spartaco, what are you doing?
If you take the child, you won't see me again
Take her away, you think I'm not a good mother anyway
He thinks he's the only one who loves her and makes sacrifices
I am the one who ruins her. And do you know why?
Because I want her to become somebody
Yes, that's what I want for my daughter
Am I entitled to feel this way or not?
She mustn't become a loser
She mustn't depend on anyone or get beaten like me
You don't know what sacrifices I made...
...to find the money to pay for these little things
I've been running up and down Rome, keeping it a secret from him...
...not to have to touch his money
And how does he thank me?
By beating me to a pulp. Leave now!
Get out! I can't stand the sight of you. You've ruined me. Look at me
I'm full of bruises
I'm full of bruises, look at me. I'm all swollen
Go away. I can't stand the sight of you
He ruined me
- Maddalena, stop acting - I'm not acting
Come on, Spartaco. She's made so many sacrifices
She went as far as Piazza Vittoriana for a diabetic. What more do you want?
Give her the child. I'll settle up with you later
I don't want to see him again
This man will be the death of me
Give me the child
We made it, honey
If we didn't do that, we wouldn't have got an audition
My dear, do you think I'm working for nothing?
Cheer up! You have to sing
The children...
I've even lost my voice, but you'll see how I sing tomorrow
My darling
My sweetheart
FILMING IN PROCESS
Quiet, please!
What's he saying?
It's the voice of director Blasetti
I'm going to faint
Madam
She's gone mad
Good morning. My daughter is next
We're trying to listen here
Will you let us listen?
- What does she want? - Madam, please
If you say so...
Come over here a minute. I have to tell you something
- I'm going - Good
I also have to tell you something else
All the gifts, the presents...
All taken care of
- Did you send the flowers? - To Blasetti's wife, of course
Because it's important, you see
- What about the perfume? - To the cameraman
To the cameraman's wife, actually. Cigarettes to the cameraman
Right. And did you send a big bunch of flowers?
Instead of a bunch of normal flowers, I sent orchids
They cost more but are more impressive. You'll see that the gifts work
I'm so nervous, I don't care about anything
My heart is in my mouth. My hands are shaking
- Don't faint like that lady - I won't. She was a fanatic
Who is she? With that funny hairstyle
That's Mimmetta
- Hi - How are you?
What a rogue you are
Did you get the scooter?
Yes, I did. So, how are we inaugurating it?
With a proper launch, a bottle of champagne
And maybe even with a patroness
I don't like ceremonies
You know, Alberto, I may have a part in Colamorucci's next film
Glori promised me
Well done. Congratulations
So now you have to thank me, right?
Right
Mum, I've finished
- Yes? How did it go? - Very well
Mum!
Excuse me, Mr Annovazzi
Can I go in? It's my daughter's turn
- Let me in - How rude
There she is
She's so pretty
That dress really suits her
She looks like a hen. See?
Mummy's sweetheart
Make up, ready. You come here
- What's he telling her? - Blasetti is explaining to her what to do
Does she have to eat that cake?
They're lighting the candles. She has to blow them out as if it was her birthday
- She won't have to eat it? - No
She would have been good at that, she loves sweets
Why is he picking her up?
She's cute
- He kissed her! - Calm down
He kissed my daughter! Did you see?
Well, that's how it is
Everything's going to be fine, I'm sure
Come to my mother-in-law's restaurant on Sunday
And bring along that lady... what's her name?
- Mimmetta! - Yes, the one wearing trousers
Your fiancée, I mean
You should have seen this child, she was phenomenal
All the spotlights were on her. I felt as if I was in Piazza Navona
And director Blasetti - he overawed me
I couldn't even look at him
But she was calm and confident
- So calm - She's a very calm child
While you were so agitated, as if it was your audition
- Don't be silly - But you were shaking
Maybe a little. After all, my daughter's future is at stake here. Right, honey?
Your medicine! I forget everything these days. My head is in a spin
You have to take this medicine...
...because soon you have to start working so hard...
...that if you don't get a boost... What is it? Glycerophosphate...
- Sodium glycerophosphate - It will do you so much good
- I don't want it! It tastes nasty! - Come on
If you don't take it, I will
- See? - You know what's going to happen?
The children who don't take this medicine turn into geese
Tomorrow morning, you'll wake up doing this...
Come on. Take it. It tastes like water. Quack quack!
- I'm taking it - You see?
Did you have to bring this chancer home with you?
Don't make such a big deal out of it. Why are you calling him chancer?
You're never happy if you're not arguing with someone, are you?
Sweet like a cherry
You know why I brought him here - he helped me
Don't pretend you don't understand
- Here's the fruit - Thanks
- Up with Rome! - Up with Rome!
Do you support Rome now?
Gosh! Get out of here
What's the world coming to?
I want him to meet Spartaco so he can tell you if it's true
- Mrs Maddalena! - Yeah!
- You don't believe me, you'll believe him - Come down to the river!
- Are you mad? - You'll see how cool it is here!
He really is mad. I can't come because I'm in high heels
Don't worry. I'll give you a hand
Listen to me, come up
- Are you coming down? - What a pain! I'm coming then
- I'm in high heels, it will be a struggle - I'll give you a hand
Careful not to hurt yourself. I'm coming
I nearly fell down
Here you are
You're mad to make me come here in these heels
See how fresh the air is here?
Fresh air? It's bloody hot here
- It's cooler - Don't let me fall
- Look what lovely greenery and water - Where?
This is nature
But we're so used to it. It's no fun at all
Then why do you stay indoors all the time? You can walk down here
It's shady and cool
Shady and cool? This is a refuse dump!
- We're hiding like quails - No, no
Don't push me down. No tricks
- What... Oh, Lord! - Don't hit me, or you'll fall
Let me take off my shoe because it's full of sand
Don't push me down there or I'll take you with me
- I'll drag you down with me - Fine
Let me take off my shoe
Heavens! It's full, I'm not lying. Look
- Nice soil - I must wash my feet. Hold me, please
- I can't believe this - I'll hold you
Oh, it's so cold
Oh, Lord! I am going to have a heart attack
It's lovely here. Almost better than the Naviglio canal
This man is mad
- I'm glad you came - This is madness
- I really needed it - What?
- 10 minutes alone with you - Really? Why?
Did you want to thank me for the gift I gave you?
- What are you talking about? - What's it like? Does it run well?
How fast can it go?
- I don't understand what... - Oh, you innocent!
May I give you a piece of advice? Look after it
You need to get a cover for it so it won't get wet
Because if you ruin it, you won't find another fool like me ready to buy it
I hope you don't think that I...
- No. I wouldn't dream of it - Seriously
I don't care how you spent the money. I knew it from the beginning
I was interested in getting what I wanted
Fix your hair, you look dishevelled
- You're fun to be with - I know, everyone says that
I'm just too much fun!
So, don't be cruel
I'm a sweet little angel
And I'm also obedient
It's so nice in here - nice lunch, sunshine...
- All is missing... - A girl, I know. But you didn't bring her
- Mimmetta? She's not my girlfriend - Really?
We dated for a while and we may get back together, but right now...
- Did you leave her? - Me?
I never broke up with anyone
- What if I told you it was your fault? - Here we go
- Where do I come into it? - You do
If you want to talk seriously, we'll talk seriously, if you want to joke...
- I've seen her twice with you - Right
- Is she jealous? - Yes
Of me?
Find a better one
A pretty girl like her. What am I compared to her?
- Come on - Well...
Do you think a girl can't be jealous of you?
I'm not saying that, but...
- Has your husband ever told you... - Of course he's told me, many times
- Let's hope they win - Lazio?
- Rome! Let's not fight - No, Lazio
- Woe betide Rome if they lose - OK, then
That's better. Let me hear what they're saying
I can't hear anything from here
- That's nice - No, that's not nice at all
Keep still. Stop it
- Who, me? - You have such a shrewd face!
- Let's be honest - Yes, let's
I've helped your daughter
I've lost my girlfriend
You bought a scooter. What more do you want? Come on!
Lord, how cunning he is
- What a son of a bitch! - Yeah
- I got the scooter I wanted - Damn you...
- Life is great, isn't it? - Sure. Life is great
It could be great, instead you only live once...
...and life is short and not always good
I know that you love your husband...
...and are happy
You're happy when you're with him and the child...
...but I also know that today...
...right at this moment...
...we are happy here together
Why shouldn't I say so? It's the truth
We understood each other perfectly
It's nice here. And I...
I'd love to hug you
Is there anything wrong in saying so? I don't think so
For example, if my mother ...
...who's quite old now ...
...had let someone hug her when she was young...
...in the sunshine, on the riverbank like this...
...instead of tormenting herself by thinking...
...what my life would be like as an adult...
...today maybe she'd be less sad
She spends her days mending my socks and washing my shirts
My mother
Everything that she's given up...
...she's turned it into hopes for me
Bless her
And now, like Mimmetta, she too does nothing but say to me all day...
..."Be a go-getter. Be a go-getter"
I am a go-getter. You know that very well
I never pass up any opportunities that come my way
I don't live in a dream world
But I don't want to have any regrets
Am I right, Maddalena?
Don't make me end my Sunday...
...counting the ants on the sand
Listen, Maddalena
Have you ever tried letting yourself go?
Doing one of those silly things people do just like that...
...once in a while, without thinking much...
...like rich people do when they throw money away
That's the best feeling
It spices up our lives
It's everything
Do you know that in this light your eyes are blue?
Or maybe green, like the water
They change according to the light
Now they're very light and seem to be smiling
Come on now, you're talking nonsense
Look at this, I'm all dirty now
- Why did you stand up? - Because I have to go
Do you want to stay and count the ants?
Stay, if that pleases you
I can send you my mother-in-law, so that she can give you a hand
Let's go
Aren't you coming?
Or do you want to go in the water, to cool yourself down?
Let's go. We need to see the screen test. Hurry up, come on
Poor dishevelled fellow
It wasn't your lucky day. Never mind
You'll be luckier another time, don't worry
Let me get my jacket
If you want to see the screen test, come to the editing room in Cinecittà
- Ask for Iris, OK? - Yes, thanks a lot
Goodbye. Goodbye everybody
Goodbye
Did you take your shoes off as well?
Can I come in? Is Iris here?
That's me. Come in
- Am I disturbing you? - No, do come in
Mr Annovazzi told me to come and see you
He mentioned that. I was expecting you
- He said you have the screen tests - Yes
Of all the girls?
- Then you have my daughter's too - Which one is she?
- This one here - Number 7. It's in the can
- What do you mean, in the can? - To be taken to the viewing room
Ah, the film itself. I see
- Can I see it then? - This is a different screen test
- Ah, it's another child - Right
It's not very clear
She sounds like a cat
She gives me the shivers
- Can you show me my daughter's now? - You must be joking
Blasetti is waiting for me downstairs
Iris, hurry and bring the tests down as Blasetti is waiting
- I'm coming - He's angry
- Room number 3 - OK, bye
- Are they watching the screen tests? - Yes
- Including my daughter's? - Yes
- I'm begging you, let me see it - Sorry, it's not possible
- I've come all this way - I am going to end up in trouble
- But who'll see me? - Nella, you tell her
- Try to understand - It's just impossible
Hey, do I know you?
Where have I seen you?
Help me to remember
- Tell her. Are you ashamed? - You saw me in a film
That's right. At the outdoor cinema
That really nice Roman film... "Under the Sun of Rome"
- Yes - What a nice film
You were the one who got slapped
I've enjoyed it so much. Do you remember her, honey?
You loved it too
What do you do now? Are you in this film?
No, I don't make films any more
- I work here. I do editing - So you don't make films anymore
Why?
I'm not an actress
They only hired me once or twice...
...as I was the type they needed
I even got my hopes up
And I lost my job and my boyfriend
All I can say is, either you are a professional actor...
...or give up your dreams and stick to a real job
I'm sorry to tell you this, because you're full of hopes
You might be right, but I doubt it
So many people ended up badly thinking they'd make it in cinema
I convinced myself I was so great and so beautiful...
...and yet, I'm stuck here, doing editing
Nobody called me, so I'm here
Really?
Poor you. But I'm sure it's not the same for everyone
That would be terrible
That would be really terrible
Irreparable
I risked everything for her
I'd be disappointed
Don't worry...
...everything will be fine
She's so pretty
- Did you see the screen test? - Yes, I did
- Is she cute? - Yes, very
Please, let me see it
- How can I? - Let me see it
How can I? Nella, what do you say? Shall I send her up?
- Why not, give it a try - No one will see me
I'll stand behind you. You're so kind
I'll take you there, as long as you stay quiet
I won't say a word. I won't move
Thank you
It's my daughter's screen test
Please let me stay. You're very kind
You see her?
That's the girl who was at the photographer's. Remember?
- Do you see her? - Yes
Quiet, or they'll throw us out
- What's her name? - Maria Cecconi
That's you. Gosh, how small you look from afar
What are you doing? Oh, yeah, you're blowing out the candles
Blow, blow!
Poor thing!
Couldn't you manage?
You have so much breath at home, but not there?
My goodness, you make me feel ill
She really can't do this
Stop it, guys!
I can't work like this
Guys, please. Enough!
- Who brought her, Glori? - Not me
- Maybe him, Annovazzi - Did you bring her?
I only directed her here because her mother asked me
Now the poem
You recite it so well
"Venice, to thee comes at last the last hour
"Martyr illustrious, in thy foe's power
"Bread lacks, the cholera deadlier grows
"From the lagoon bridge the white banner blows"
Did you cry?
Why did you start crying?
They're amused, see?
Perhaps you made them laugh
"Venice, to thee comes at last the last hour..."
What are they laughing at?
What are they saying?
Not good things
Why are they laughing so much?
Why are they so amused?
She's a dwarf, look
Bastard
Bastard. I can't take this. I can't take this
What's all this? Isa, stop the film and restart it from the beginning
- What's so funny? - She's so funny with that fringe
She's not a kid, she's a dwarf - she went to school with me in 1925!
- Are you saying you're 30 years old? - Good
- What do you think? - It's a counter-productive test
I see
Excuse me, but if I may say my opinion...
...this last screen test is a waste of film
I would have realized straight away that the child was going to do that
I have already told you...
Your name is Annovazzi, isn't it? You were in the Army, right? Stand up
Good. By the left. By the left!
Quick march. Get out!
- Go away, because... - Sorry, Blasetti
If you carry on like this, you're out. I won't be able to hire you anymore
- You have no chance - At least let me apologize
Do I have to lose my job for such a silly thing?
- Let me apologize to him - I'll do that for you
See, Blasetti, I was right. We wasted time, money and film
Time, money, film and health
Our health, because we've been looking non stop for two weeks for this girl
And now you tell us that we've wasted money. Stop it, Filippo!
You've been laughing until now. Go and check what's happening over there
- No, let me in - You can't come in
Leave me alone, keep your hands off
- Calm down - I want to talk to the director
- What do you want to say to him? - What?
What was so funny about this little girl? Where is he? There he is
Mr Blasetti, listen... Let me through. Let me through
Excuse me, Mr Blasetti...
...but I was hiding up there in the booth
I've heard you all laugh. What was so funny?
Why does she make you laugh so much? She's like any other child
- One of you even called her a dwarf - No, no
How rude! You've no respect for other people's feelings
You've no respect for other people's sacrifices
I made so many sacrifices to buy her this dress...
- Calm down, madam - And the other guy, that Annovazzi...
- Where is he? - We've thrown him out
Well done. You're a person who understands. You did the right thing
- Let me speak - Well done to you
How can we tell if someone is hiding in the projection booth?
Mr Blasetti, please, don't send me away like this...
...without a glimmer of hope
You see, Antonelli? This is cinema
We're responsible for all this. Glori, come here
We can't deal with the mothers too
- Isa, put reel number 7 back on - The one with Maria Cecconi
I want to see the test again. Do you want to go?
- No, I'll watch it again too - I'm pleased
The dwarf in the land of the giants
Blasetti, remember that I'm a Northerner
I come from Milan, I never go to Donei's
- You can get good deals there - Do you go to Motta's?
Quiet now, please
"Today, tomorrow and never" Seventh screen test
Help!
Annovazzi! Alberto, wait for me. Stop
We need to find that child who did the screen test
The one that made us laugh. What was her name?
- Cecconi - Yes, Cecconi
Blasetti wants her
Blasetti kicked me out, it's no longer my business
Don't be stupid
- We must find her - You find her. I'll give you the address
It's Via Alberto da Giussano, 4. Bye
If you find her, and if we sign the contract this evening...
...you'll work on this film, I promise you
- Swear - I swear. I give you my word
She lives in Prenestino, via Alberto da Giussano, 4
I'll go ahead, you take the car
Da Giussano, 4? I'm off. Orsini, hurry. You go. Orsini!
The contract is ready and signed by the producer. All we need is your approval
- We have the best actors, like... - Amedeo Nazzari
- And that American actress... - Lana Turner. If not her, a better one
Absolutely
Maybe he's not interested in this because he's worried about his wife
Don't worry, your wife will be back. She's not a child
Are you worried? I'll take care of that. The police and us are very close
Orsini, go straight to Via Genova...
...and talk to Superintendent Giusillo
Tell him Glori sent you...
...and that I need a favour
- They even find people who drown - Forget about the police
He's right
My wife will be here soon. She always wants to do things her own way
I'd really like to know where she's gone
I've asked somebody to let me know when she arrives
Take a seat
- Orsini, you can go - We can discuss the contract
Fine. So...
"With this private agreement, we hire Maria Cecconi...
"...as the leading young actress..."
Spartaco. She's here, come up
She's here
After all you've done, you made it
Stand back. Don't touch her
- Don't touch her - Maddalena
Hi, Spartaco. Don't wake her up
Don't wake her up
Let me through
Don't touch her
- Thank goodness she's here - Her husband was waiting for her
- Her eyes are red - She's been crying
What's going on, Maddalena?
You made it
For once you're right, and you start crying!
Let's sign this contract
We don't have many options
Either we sign that contract or we end up in the street
She's crying again
Here she is, our Greta Garbo
Don't you dare touch her
Don't touch her
Come on, let's sign the contract. We just need one signature
And I'll give you 250,000 lire immediately
A further 250,000 in a week, and more in two weeks
I'll give you the first instalment straight away
Where's the cheque book? Do you have it, Alberto? No
It must be at Cinecittà. I'll be right back to pay you
It's two million lire. You're going to get two million
Plus a thousand lire a day that no one can take away
Don't turn your back on this, it only happens once
Please, just sign it
Very well
Do you want her with curly hair or straight hair?
Does she have to lisp or stutter? Which one do you find funnier?
Haven't you had enough fun, all of you?
I'm really sorry...
...but my daughter is staying here
I didn't bring her into this world to amuse anyone
To me and to her dad she's beautiful
She's beautiful
We're keeping her here
Go now, or you will wake her up
Go away
Spartaco, what are you waiting for to tell these gentlemen...
...that your daughter will never make films?
Kick them out
Kick them out, Spartaco
Kick them out
Maddalena! Maddalena, can you hear me?
I don't think there's much we can do. I know her very well
Take the contract and go back to Cinecittà. I'm sorry
What are you doing? You're always a nuisance
Really? We're always a nuisance?
What about you, with all the racket you make?
I'm the concierge. Don't I have the right to tell these ladies...
...what goes on in the building where I work?
- Am I right or not? - Be quiet. The child's sleeping
- Be quiet - Let's go because the child's sleeping
Do me a favour and take these cows away
Are we cows now?
Quiet. My daughter is asleep. Go away
What are you doing still here? Go away
You'd better stop it, or I'll send down my husband
Send whoever - your grandfather, your uncle... Just go away!
How rude!
How will I look in front of the producer and everyone else?
And Orsini, who's got the car, has left. How do we get back to Cinecittà?
I'll give you a lift on my scooter
Let's go
- Goodnight - Goodnight, or rather, goodbye
Goodbye
That damned outdoor cinema. Always disturbing us
My poor little house
My poor little house, what's going to happen now?
Give me my usual four slaps
Give them to me so that you'll feel better. Go on
What are you waiting for, Spartaco?
This crazy wife of mine
Don't worry about the house
Don't worry, I'll take care of it. I'll pay for everything
Even if I had to kill myself with work
Even if I had to get everyone in Rome to develop diabetes
Don't worry, Spartaco
Don't worry
- Can you hear him? - Who?
Burt Lancaster. He's so nice
Maddalena, now you really deserve a slap!
Am I not allowed a joke anymore?
Quiet, don't talk, don't wake the child up
Don't wake the child up
Translated by Lorena Uras