This is the year's academic program.
But as you are aware, your final exam will be with another teacher.
The Rome Board of Education
has finally approved my zillionth request for a transfer.
As my farewell salute to you,
I'd like you to know something.
The endless days and hours
spent in this classroom,
have been the most... depressing
and useless waste of time in my life.
I can't help but wonder why you even bothered coming,
when it's a waste for everyone
but especially for the twenty or twenty-one of you.
In my humble opinion,
you are completely and hopelessly unsuitable
for any form of cognitive learning.
You have been one of the worst and most demeaning experiences
a teacher could ever dream of.
If I may,
there's something else I'd like to say.
Contralto is fine.
Tenors, crappy as usual... Sopranos, quite good.
Caterina, a little too enthusiastic, but thanks anyway.
Rome isn't the ultimate choice.
It's acceptable as far as history goes,
but too unmethodical and full of wankers.
Forget the views we have here.
You won't see the sea.
I highly doubt it.
Smell this fresh air.
How does one say...
an authentic atmosphere.
But you're clueless about these things.
You idiot.
I'd better not come up. Say hi to Uncle and Auntie.
Bye, Cesarino.
-We can't, we're cousins! -Second cousins!
Keep your mobile on, I II call you on the road.
Call as soon as you get there.
-Say goodbye to Giancarlo. -Should I tell him?
-Maybe... -Don't bother him. How is he?
He's got a headache. But in general he's better.
The transfer will do him some good.
-Giancarlo sure is a prick. -Be quiet!
-Auntie's little girl! -Hi, Aunt Marisa.
-Are you happy? -I guess so.
Come in!
-Are they gone? -Yes.
-How did we ever do it? -What, Daddy?
Put up with them for all these years.
Mommy wants to know if Aunt Marisa's pizza is okay or if you want spaghetti.
-You excited? -I guess.
Me too.
It's going to be great.
Friday, 9 September 2002.
Today we moved to our late grandparents' house in Rome.
From the billboard "You are now leaving Montalto"
to "Welcome to Rome",
it is exactly 97 km and 712 meters.
It took us 1 hour and 45 minutes
including one potty break at a highway rest stop.
What's wrong?
Just relax.
Agata, hands on the wheel!
Stop!
-Just relax. -Okay.
So far, I've noticed three strange things in Rome.
A woman doing crossword puzzles on the roadside.
A nun smoking a cigarette.
Some weird guy directing traffic like an orchestra conductor.
This is Daddy's aunt and this is Teresa, who will help us.
Good morning.
Did you see how cute your room is?
I want to show you something.
Look at this beauty!
Wow, it's been here all this time?
What would I have done with it in Montalto?
When I bought it, I wanted to go traveling all over.
I was twenty.
-Things changed... -I know... Mom, work, me.
We were your downfall.
Giancarlo? So it's true!
Look who's here!
The great Giancarlo!
Well?
-Fabietto Cruciani? -You remember!
Sure I do.
-Nice moustache. -Like you!
This must be your daughter.
All grown up!
-Hi, I'm Caterina. -Like her grandmother.
-I think we lost the yellow bag. -No!
This is my wife Agata. Fabietto and I grew up together.
-Nice to meet you. -Nice to meet you.
What a nice family!
My mother would've been happy. You heard, didn't you?
I have to get back to the store.
But let's touch base one of these nights.
-Bye. -Bye-bye.
Poor Fabietto.
His whole life taking care of his mother.
Never had a woman.
He plays for the other side.
He plays what? He's what?
Just go look for the yellow bag!
Maybe it's in the burgundy suitcase.
Monday, 12 September. First day of school.
The same school Daddy went to.
He's upset that the bakery's a bank now.
There are new janitors now and his old teachers have all retired.
In my class, there were children of judges, newspaper owners,
head doctors, directors, attorneys...
The intellectual level is probably much lower now.
-Holy cow! -I wouldn't say "holy cow".
Don’t let them know where you're from.
Well, do what you think is best.
Remember, your desk.
-Not the first row, not the last. -Right, no teacher's pet, no slacker.
Third row, on the side. You decide, okay?
Wait.
-The house keys. -Oh, thanks.
Kiss.
-Do you love me? -Yes.
-Is everything clear? -Yes.
-De Gregorio? -Here.
-Both of them. Garboli? -Yo, teacher!
-Germano? -Hi.
Iacovoni Caterina?
-Here. -You're the new student!
Where are you from?
-It's near Rome. -Where, exactly?
North, northwest...
What’s so funny?
Tyrrhenian Coast, kind of.
Does it have a name?
Montalto di Castro, Maam.
I didn't hear you.
Montalto di Castro, Maam.
Hillbilly haven!
Damn snobs!
People actually live there?
The cops always catch us speeding there.
Well, with your dad...
Its an important location because of the power plant.
It's nuclear.
It was de-activated after the referendum.
Right!
-Do you like bologna? -Yes.
-Wanna trade? -Okay.
-Are you alternative or preppy? -Sorry?
You don't look hippy or white trash. Maybe you're normal.
I don't know.
Are you on Margherita's or Daniela's side?
-Who? -I get it, you want to be mysterious.
Margherita Rossi Chaillet. She's that intellectual's daughter...
The conceited one with the grey streak who's always on TV.
What is he? A philosopher...
Her mother is that writer who’s always in liberal protests.
What's her name?
Oriana Fallaci?
Wake up, Agata!
Giulia Armani.
-Is she related to the Armani? -I don't know.
I think this Daniela Germano is Manlio Germano's daughter.
You do know him, don't you?
-The politician? -Now he's a deputy minister.
I must say there still is a level of prestige.
Me, on the other hand, I ended up in hell.
No pasta, just salad.
Is it a bad school?
This morning, they took down the set of a TV movie set in a prison.
My students were probably the extras, that should explain it.
It must have been a good experience for them.
Mommy, it was joke.
Oh, that's funny!
I didn't get it.
Last year they blew up another teacher's car.
-What's so funny? -Oh, it's true.
Poor guy.
I, on the other hand, showed them who I am.
And... after school
they all came up and cheered at me. Patting me on the back...
DICKHEAD
"Hands off!", I told them.
-I'll get the salt. -Iodised!
-What? -I said: iodised.
Thank you.
How embarrassing!
Wednesday, 21 September.
That boy smiled at me last night.
But I feel like the rest of Rome ignores me.
There are tons of people in Rome and they keep to themselves.
I feel like the invisible woman, but it's not that bad.
You're nothing but Nazis! The worst criminals in history.
You wish there were still concentration camps.
The Communists had them too.
You Communists lost the elections, that's democracy
so shut your ass!
The Forza Italia guy said that on TV last night!
-What did "Morticia" say? -That you're a bimbo!
-At least I wash my hair! -Fuck you!
That's enough!
That's enough.
Where were we?
We were talking about those skinheads
who raided that squat.
You all say: "Communists, Nazis, Fascists..."
I think that's an overreaction.
What do these words mean nowadays?
You tell me,
you tell me, Mirko and stop clowning around!
-Communists and Fascists? -Yes.
I know that one.
Communists are...
rich and have lots of degrees.
You moron!
The Fascists are poor and ignorant.
Maybe you are, and ugly too!
I think right-winged people, like me,
are the normal people, the ones who work.
That's true.
The Communists are all... executives, doctors, directors.
People who don't need to work.
All of the judges are Communists!
Let's hear from someone whose opinion we haven't heard.
You're new, Caterina.
Where are you from?
North, northwest!
Tyrrhenian Coast, kind of.
I'd like to hear from someone from a different context.
It's a rather interesting discussion, but I'm not very informed on it.
Kids don't talk about these things in Montalto.
Are there skinheads?
My cousins looked like skinheads when they got lice at school.
Don't you have squats?
Not really.
Just the senior citizens who squat on the benches and play cards.
But I'm not sure it's the same thing.
Interesting point of view. Thanks, Caterina.
You at least gave us a break from this boring nonsense.
The teacher said you're not in a study group.
-Do you want to study with us? -Okay, thanks.
Are you coming or not?
Thanks.
See you then.
-Is she coming or not? -She is!
There she is, stop her!
Prepare yourself, Carolina or whatever your name is.
-Caterina. -Daniela said you can come too.
-Where? -To her house, to study.
-People would die for it. -And she chose you.
-Sorry, but I've already got plans. -To do what?
-Where are you going to go? -To Margherita's.
-Where? -Are you insane?
That’s insane!
-What happened? -She's going to Margherita's.
Second floor.
May I?
... to halt the execution of Amina Lawala and Fatima Usman.
-What do you think? -Its too formal.
What about: "Stop stoning people, troglodytes!"
-Hi. -Good evening.
-Are you a friend of Margheritas? -I'm Caterina Iacovoni.
My mother made a fruitcake for you.
How nice! A mother who still bakes!
Thank her for me, we were having tea. Would you like some?
-No, thanks. -I'll show you the way.
Sorry. I'm coming back soon.
-Are you in Margherita's class? -Yes.
-Does she go to class? -Of course.
How's she doing? She's so mysterious to me now.
Honey...
Your friend's here, open the door.
-Silvia and Daria want to see you. -Tell them I said hi.
Are you coming to the protest at the Senate?
-Then their daughters might come too. -I'll think about it.
-What did I do wrong? -Don't make a scene!
I can't deal with her.
You won't forgive her for letting your father leave her.
-Are your parents separated? -No.
What do they do?
Dad taught accounting at Montalto for 13 years, that’s where he met Mom.
-Is she a teacher too? -No,
she used to work in Grandpa's store. Now she's a housewife.
I'm pleased you're here. Do you mind the incense?
No, it smells nice.
Your mother is jealous of your relationship with your dad.
Now she uses you against him.
-Spare me the TV-shrink talk. -You always say that!
-Leave me in peace. -Sorry for caring about you.
-Tell me about yourself. -What do you want to know?
-Are you happy? -I guess.
-About what? -Your life.
-You've got beautiful hands. -I do? Thanks.
Finally, a simple, pure person.
Who doesn't fit the conventions
that have rotted everyone's brains at that fucking school!
-I might even drop out. -Yeah, right.
You want to quit school?
lts sole purpose is to homogenize people.
Except Daniela who's been lobotomised.
-She was homogenized at birth. -Daniela Germano?
She's always laughing. She's always... cheery.
Cheery, my ass! She's the epitome of vulgarity and arrogance.
She's surrounded by her idiot clones.
-I can't bear Fascists, can you? -A little.
You're blushing. I adore people who still blush.
Mark Twain said:
"man is the only animal that blushes, and they should do it more often."
Oh, please! If you don't mind, I'd like to sleep.
Go ahead.
-What was the house like? -Amazing,
I didn’t think houses like that existed.
-Was her father there? -I think they’re separated.
Typical... What's her mother like?
She's strange, a little nervous. Her friends ate the whole cake.
-She's really nice. -I wouldn't have thought that.
I read one of her interviews and she didn't impress me much.
She looks like the clique type.
Know what that means?
-Dictionary! -I'm busy right now.
Do it later. Dictionary! Come on, Agata!
-Auntie has to pee. -She can do it later.
Look it up, Caterina.
Clique: a small group of friends or associates.
Go on.
To act with others secretly to gain a desired end.
Got it?
An important concept to understand how things work in this country.
Perhaps I'm wrong about her.
Only time will tell.
Invite her and your friend to dinner.
-What do you think? -What can I make?
Something informal, a stand-up thing. Salads, snacks...
We could do something fancy in this house at least once!
Something fancy, my goodness.
-Come here. -Where?
Sit next to me.
-Where's Martina? -She's not coming today.
-So how are you? -Fine.
-I had a dream about you last night. -You did?
This is for you.
Wow, it's great!
I feel so close to you.
WATCH OUT FOR LICE!
I think I'll die if I stay here. Let's go.
-What? -Let's leave.
You guys didn't see us.
Thursday, 11 October.
First time I ve ever ditched school.
I feel both euphoria and real terror.
-Where are you going? -Its a beautiful day outside.
The things Margherita likes about Rome are:
the market florist...
Tonino's used bookstand and Omero's used clothes stand.
-Like it? -You always pick the best things.
Then the hill in the district of Testaccio.
At the poet's grave that Margherita met in person.
The pumpkin of Emelgian is like a little boat...
as we drown in a wildflower.
You only live once,
and only once youth glorifies the moon, like a distant ring.
Holy cow, that's pretty.
She says that's her favourite place
and sometimes wants to die and stay there forever.
-Is that a chandelier on your ear? -It's from Margherita.
-When are they coming? -Where?
For dinner? Did you invite them?
Your mother wants to make cannelloni.
I don't think it's posh enough, but its the only thing she's any good at.
By the way, Agata...
Margherita asked me to go with her to her Dad's this weekend.
Lets invite Giorgio too.
-The one with the short wife? -No, that’s Sergio.
-Honey... -I can't remember now.
Do you remember anything?
-You don't remember shit, honey. -Right.
Daddy's little boy.
Your big sister got your bathwater ready.
Are you crazy? It's boiling hot!
Your sister wants to burn you.
Now let's wash you.
You like your bath, don't you?
-Was he that way with you? -I don't remember.
He stopped writing and teaching. He doesn't answer the phone.
He won't let me go to class, I missed two job placement exams.
Why? He does everything.
He takes the baby to bed with him and I have to sleep on the sofa.
So I can rest... what’s the point? I don’t do fuck all anymore.
So we stopped sleeping together.
Sex has been banned from the house.
And that was the one thing that worked between us.
-Does it bother you to hear this? -Not at all.
You look so mature to me.
He may be a genius, but this can't go on.
What am I supposed to do?
Giacomino just did an amazing poo! Come and see!
It's a work of art! This kid is something else, I II tell you.
Hi, Dad. No, they don't have a pool.
We did the shopping, ate and now we're going for a walk.
Are you angry about what that lady said to you?
Who, Lucilla? No, poor thing.
-What's your dad like? -Normal.
It must be great to have normal parents.
We wont give in, we'll continue our struggle.
Cut that hair. Aren't you embarrassed in public?
Are you sure the fork goes on the right? What are we waiting for?
Her friend wants to eat in the bedroom.
Here you are!
Meatloaf and mashed potatoes.
-Cool! -Thanks.
Bon appetit.
Thanks.
I can understand your need to be independent.
It's a healthy thing.
When I was your age, certain rules...
sit down at the table with your parents...
They drove me crazy!
This will probably make you laugh,
but I still feel like a solitary kid, a rebel!
A solitary rebel!
Who’s this? Oh, Neek Cahvey.
Nick Cave, he's Australian.
-What's this? -Vitezslav Nezval, a Prague surrealist.
"The bitter retrotaste of the harvest."
Nice, but a bit grandiloquent.
Probably the translator's fault, they always lose something.
My mother translated it from Czech.
Well, it's not bad.
Interpreting a poet's visions is quite difficult.
-Yes. -Dad!
-What, sweetie? -Nothing, but...
I'm more a fan of prose, but that would be a long story.
Hold on, I'll be right back.
-I'm sorry. -No, he's expressive.
I've never seen him that way.
This meatloaf is tops.
Go ask Mom to make me some java.
Java?
-Dad wants some coffee. -All right.
-What's he doing? -He's just babbling.
-Did you eat by yourself? -It's okay... here he comes!
That's a sharp girl, all right.
-You pretty woman! -What are you doing?
Go on!
-What did he want? -Close the door.
I'm supposed to give this to my mother, and not tell you.
-What is it? -His book.
What?
"The mysterious lady from Milan sitting in front of me
slowly crossed her legs intentionally showing the edge of her silk stocking.
The black lace highlights the milky white of her luscious thighs.
My sex is painfully throbbing against my trousers.
The bathroom door is ajar, she is waiting for me..."
-Stop, he said not to read it. -He's a pervert.
-He made it up. -That's what I mean!
What is the "heavenly orifice"?
Her asshole, I think.
Cut it out!
Has your father ever laid his hands on you?
Are you crazy?
You have to make me another coffee.
Lets bomb them all!
-Who's that? -Caterina.
I went to the immigration police to find out how to get my sister to come over.
The officer said "fucking immigrant", so I said: "fucking cop".
So he yelled: your sister's staying where she is.
Watch your mouth or you're going back too.
How rude!
They think they're untouchable with that new right-winged law.
-With what? -The new anti-immigration law.
This administration will only pass demagogic laws
or cater to the prime minister's interests.
-You're into politics now? -No, but I can't bear the Fascists.
All Saint's week, two days of school and three off.
I've just had my third period. I'm never home, I feel weird.
Always with Margherita, my head's exploding. But I'm pretty happy.
-Stay still! -It hurts!
Keep drinking and shut up.
-Know what that means? -What?
You and I are eternally one. We won't ever betray each other.
-Got it? -Yes.
-Promise. -I promise.
Turn that music down!
We're trying to work!
For Christ's sake!
Sorry, Michele. Next time your place.
What were you saying?
The French want either Depardieu or Daniel Auteil.
As far as I m concerned... anyway...
I was thinking about giving more space to the character Bruno.
That nice short story you wrote.
About the attorney whose wife dies.
Excuse me, a Mr. Iacovoni is here.
-Who? -Caterina's father.
Sorry...
Can you get the girls, they won't even answer when I knock.
Apologise to him for me, this isn't the time.
I was passing by and thought I'd pick up my daughter.
She'll be right out, she's in Margherita's room.
Nice to meet you, Giancarlo Iacovoni.
Michele Placido.
Such an honour, congratulations on your work.
For the unforgettable Commissioner Cattani,
as well as your new career as director.
You've won some awards, haven't you?
We can't complain.
And then there's you! I saw you at the literary awards on TV.
That television interview...
But it didn't go well, did it?
But we all know how things work in this country, don't we?
If you don't mind, what are you working on?
A new project? I see something here...
Please, don t...
I finished the rough draft of that story,
100 pages!
It could be made into a film, a certain genre although.
But not a TV movie.
Some of the racy scenes I included would have to be softened up.
-She must have told you. -Well...
-Told me what? -About my book.
I gave Margherita a copy so you could read it...
-No... -That's funny, maybe it's here.
No, please don't.
-That's not it. -Excuse me!
Here they are, let me ask Margherita.
Did Caterina's father give you something for me?
Me?
No.
What? Kids these days...
I even told you not to tell Caterina about it.
Its not a problem if you told her.
You know, the book he gave you.
Right... whatever.
What do mean by "whatever"?
Plus I have very few copies. I wouldn't mind getting it back.
Sorry.
Honey, don't you remember where you put it?
No, I don t.
Later well both look for it and give this gentleman his book.
I wouldn't dare ask you to read it...
Well, it's that...
I realise you have more important things to do.
-It's not that! -Oh, it is.
No need to start talking about certain Italian "cliques"...
Pardon?
It's no coincidence we have the Mafia in Italy!
Mr. Placido, you should know all about that word.
I'm not here to argue, lets go.
Come on!
-What were you two doing? -Nothing.
What's wrong, honey?
You reek of alcohol!
What is this?
I let my daughter come here to study, not drink and get tattoos!
-I m sorry, but... -No, I'm sorry!
You let your kids go to honest people's homes with all these books and...
I'm sorry, but I don't approve! I hate to say this in front of Mr. Placido!
Let's go!
Say something! Shit, don't let him treat you like that!
-Cut it out! -Do something!
-What? -She means...
You're an abusive person, you can't treat your daughter like that!
-Dad, stop it. -I'll pretend I didn't hear that.
Let's go, now!
You're a sick man, I pity you. I threw your book away!
Cut it out!
You're an amateur, a pig! You write pornography!
Caterina, say something to that brute!
Caterina!
-You and her are through! -Say something!
Caterina!
-Stop it! -You never say anything!
But, wait...
Too bad she threw his book away, we could have had a look...
-Please! -I was kidding.
-How do you feel? -I want to go home.
Wednesday, 18 December, I have a high fever.
The doctor said I should stay home.
It's so close to the Christmas holidays anyway.
How about an oil cruet for Marisa and Loriano?
-Or perhaps a gas lighter? -Let's get them books!
lacovoni!
Iacovoni!
-I thought you were sick? -I'm fine, thanks.
Let's go wolf down some chocolate milkshakes!
But first let's go check out the new clothes.
Are you coming or not?
Oh, Mommy and Daddy! Hi, Daniela Germano.
Wow, your dad's a handsome man!
Can Caterina come with us? We'll give her a lift home.
It's fine with me. If Caterina wants to.
-Do you? -Yes.
-Agata? -Yes.
Okay, but button up, sweetie.
Thank you.
If you need anything...
Bye-bye.
Do you know who the blonde girl in the fur coat is?
A friend of Caterina's?
-Is that a new book bag? -No, it's my usual one.
-It's the one you were looking for! -It is!
-Why are you running? -Hurry up, Caterina!
Pedal to the metal, Marcellino!
Cool, you should have seen your face!
-You guys are crazy. -Whatever, that was nothing.
Look at how cool this is!
No, this is so nerdy.
Give it to that slut girlfriend of yours.
-Stop acting like brats. -Oh, he's so sweet!
Too bad he's a Roma F. C. fan.
How about a kiss, handsome?
He sure loves me.
He'll be my boyfriend someday. Just wait till my father finds out.
-Hi! -Hi!
-This is nice! -The white fur kicks ass!
Bye-bye, Cate.
-Come in. -Thanks.
-Bye-bye. -Bye.
What a hunk! Give me a ring!
Well, how did it go?
-Did her dad take you home? -No, hang on.
Where’s Agata?
Well, sooner or later...
Eighty-eight, tits are great!
Eleven, go to heaven!
Twenty-three, give it to me, baby!
Sex is fun, eighty-one!
-Are all the rumours true? -What?
That Caterina's best friends with a minister's daughter?
I don't know if he's a minister, but she's made a lot of new friends.
-What about Giancarlo? -What?
He said he's been invited to the Costanzo Show.
He might be taking the kids from his class.
But it's not for sure yet.
-But don’t say anything. -Mum's the word.
-Twenty-five! -I got it!
-Giancarlo’s going to be on TV. -Holy cow!
Have you heard Giancarlo's going to be on the Costanzo Show?
Giancarlo's going to be on TV.
Fifty...
What?
-What's going on? -I don’t know.
-Don't you want some? -I said no!
-What about the cake? -It gives me heartburn.
I thought you liked it.
Watch the news.
Patrizia had a party in October, the one in that huge house.
There were fifty of us, it was crazy. A ton of food.
Karaoke too, I sang that song we like.
PARTY WITH HOT BOYZ 2NITE.
LUVYA, DANIELA
Then the Bucharest circus in November.
Not very big, but pretty cool.
I went three times. I was obsessed with the acrobats.
One was only seven years old and did "pirolettes" in the air.
-It's "pirouette"! -I practised too.
Cartwheels are easy, watch.
I M WITH MY TOTALLY COOL ATHLETIC FRIEND
You're great company...
You shouldn't wear tight shirts, you can see your belly.
You've become touchy.
You've become wanky like all Romans.
They think they're tops because they have two teams in the first division.
-What are you saying? -You know what I mean.
Cesarino, come back!
Cesarino!
Hi, Cate. Come here.
-Where? -Sit here. You move over.
-Why? -Because I said so.
Hi, Cate.
Here, cherry and melon.
There’s a great party in 3C later.
Tuesday, 7 January.
Something's not right.
Something inside me is conflicting with something else.
Where is my old "me"?
And is my new "me" really me?
Is Margherita really weird... or as Cesarino would say, a bit wanky?
-Should I come with you? -I'll go myself.
-Should I pick you up later? -They'll bring me home.
Kiss.
-Bye. -Bye.
All right, I'll be expecting your call.
-Good evening. -And you are...
-Caterina Iacovoni, nice to meet you. -Does Daniela know you were coming?
-Yes, at three. -That's strange.
She had a dentist appointment. Follow me, anyway.
She's not answering her cell phone.
-Have a seat. -Thank you.
-Then what did you do? -We studied, of course.
Are you Daniela's brother? She told me all about you.
You're Vittorio, right? I m Caterina, I'm in Daniela’s class.
I wasted your ass!
-Was her father there? -No, her mother.
-Are you leaving? -It's getting late.
Daniela asked you over and didn’t show up?
She's beautiful, isn't she? I saw her in the paper at the dentist's office.
-She used to work in theatre. -Work... you could call it that.
Her family owns castles.
She's a baroness or countess...
I don't know why she does these things.
Someone should straighten her out, but I just don’t have time.
Did you talk to her much? Did she ask about us?
Yes, sort of, no...
-Yes or no? -Dad, stop it.
Leave her alone. She has her own personality.
Thanks for that enlightening explanation.
Don't mention it.
Your mothers lost it.
From the Latina Tribune of Monday, 16 February:
"Pride, nostalgia and a touch of emotion.
That is how Minister Manlio Germano described his feelings
on his cousin's wedding day.
He's come back to our town, where he grew up."
I was in the newspaper too, but I looked terrible.
Its been so long!
-Say hi to grandma. -Hello, grandma.
How much she's grown!
-Did you see him? -Which one is he?
That one who said hi to me.
He's cuter than you said he was!
Did you see how he looked at you!
-What did you tell him about me? -The necessary facts.
Quiet or you're going to confession!
Is it too peachy? Was cherry red better?
No, heck. You look great.
This is Alessia, this is Christian.
-Nice to meet you. -Nice to meet you.
Daniela’s been drivin' me crazy 'bout you.
Like me too, you have no idea.
Where you going?
Behave now.
-What are you doing? -We'll come back and let them out.
OUT OF ORDER
-Have a look around. -Why?
Maybe I'll fix you up too.
-Me? -Yes, you.
Where were you?
Alessia's not feeling well, she doesn't want to eat.
-Where is she? -It's nothing serious.
Why didn't your mother come?
It's a nice party, there's lots to eat.
You're hillbillies, she doesn't want to associate with you.
-Daniela! -Well, she's deaf!
Cute Granny Cesira!
Nice perfume. Is it "Eau de Cauliflower"?
She always smells like cauliflower.
-What did she say? -That she loves you.
How nice.
May I interrupt?
-Can I call you by your first name? -Vincenzo, of course.
I'm Pietro, my brother is Vincenzo.
We went to school together, remember?
-Of course! -This is my sister-in-law Maria Rita.
-Her son needs a favour... -Of course.
-Salemme will take care of it. -Thank you.
Excuse me, my husband wants to meet you.
He's very shy.
Don't be shy, go on.
Four years in jail! While those crooks were in the government.
I'm with Ferruccio, Robertino and the Chain, too.
But they didn't feel right coming.
I'm so happy for you, I saw you on TV too.
He said you were too easy on that left-winged faggot.
You ve always been the smartest out of all of them.
Thank you. See you later.
-Was he trying to anger me? -No. They were all excited and proud.
Right. But they always have to make bad jokes.
"I was in jail and you in parliament. You had the good life."
He didn't say that.
Well, I know what they're like.
I'm disappointed, not pissed off.
No, I feel sorry for them.
The same songs, the Fascist salute...
"We are the pure strong ones."
Daniela, sit down!
-But you used to sing it to me. -I don't care.
I thought we still shared at least the same basic beliefs.
You are worrying too much, they don't represent anyone.
Perhaps certain things
were never really explained well.
There's a communication problem,
especially regarding the younger generations.
-I'm talking about you girls. -We know...
I feel like this basic concept has never been comprehended.
I mean, we were excluded from having power for generations,
we now have the historical opportunity to finally lead this country.
-Have I made myself clear, girls? -Very clear.
You can explain it all on TV Tuesday night.
Give me a drag.
You're on TV every day.
The PM and the Communication Minister decide what goes on TV.
-They decide who goes on TV! -That is not true.
-You are a pretty woman. -What does that matter?
You have a pretty tie.
-Thanks. -You've kicked out...
22 February: crazy coincidence.
Daniela’s father is on one TV channel tonight...
but we can't watch him because Dad is on the Costanzo Show.
We are excited, but mom doesn't know how to work the VCR.
Good thing Fabietto does.
I heard you too are writing a book...
Who said that?
-That's him! -Go Giancarlo!
I wanted to thank you because...
What’s he doing?
Yes, were watching it.
No, it's not live. No, he's not back yet.
I'll call you later.
-What happened to you? -I sent this manuscript...
Did he write a book?
A book?
I was hoping someone wanted to hear an original voice in this country,
someone who isn't part of the usual opinion makers.
-And you didn't get a reply? -Nothing,
not one word or even a phone call. That's lack of respect...
So certain things get binned in Italy without even being considered?
He's right, he’s good at that.
-I'd like to know what you think. -I don't know.
I don't know if they put aside...
But if you don't mind, I'll go on...
I hope you're not taking part in this game too...
-What game? -What's he doing?
Let me finish!
-Is it possible... -Look how upset he is!
that you must belong to certain cliques to be heard in this country?
-Look how upset he is! -He’s saying what he thinks.
-On TV too! -Relax, it's bad for your...
You have to belong to a group...
-It's bad for your coronary arteries! -as a citizen!
He’s not well.
-This needed to be said! -And you said it.
-Did you say it or not? -A bunch of blind followers!
Blind followers! Oh my God, they are booing!
At least let the students stay.
Sorry, but I think he's right.
The host could have let him finish.
-Why isn't he back yet? -Don't worry.
This is unbelievable!
You had us so worried.
-Did you eat? -Turn that light off.
Shall I heat up the soup?
This is cool, I have goose bumps.
Robi, you're the greatest!
Daniela Germano's here too!
It's a cool party, Robi is cool, everything is cool!
It's true, its really nice.
-This is my friend, Caterina. -Hi, Caterina!
-Say something. -Hi.
My cousin Gianfilippo, my friend Caterina.
-Nice to meet you. -Nice to meet you.
I can’t believe it!
-Do you like this type of music? -Sorry?
-Do you like this type of music? -I'm not much of an expert.
To tell the truth, neither am I.
Were going to Giorgia's house, there's a cool party there.
Let's go, Cate!
Ludo, you go first. Marcellino, follow that car!
Goodbye peace and quiet.
Let's get a lift from them.
-Do you have room for two more? -Yes, get in!
-Thanks. -Thanks.
Girls, wait for me!
Ludovico's cool, he a paraglider.
-How do you know them? -From our seaside house.
We both have yachts. Seba is my surf teacher.
-They're older than us, though. -They're too cool!
Gianfilippo is a laugh.
-I think he really likes you. -How do you know?
He's sensitive and old-fashioned, like you.
You'd expect languor and decadence from Mahler
yet there are some amazing allegros like the finale of the 3rd movement.
I like Mahler.
You're a mezzo-soprano, I'm a sort of baritone.
But I had to study cello to keep up with family tradition.
Jump in!
I would, but I don't want to get nuchal rigidity on my moped.
-Do I make you laugh? -You're silly, funny.
I'll take that as a compliment, you're nice too.
-Thank you. -Would you like a drink?
-Some orange soda. -Me too, thanks.
Daniela, I have to go. It’s late.
-We'll be right back. -Where’s she going?
Excuse me, will you tell Daniela her cousin is taking me home?
Why? Where is she?
-Upstairs, but I don't know where. -Thanks.
Thank you.
-Watch out! -You watch out, little shit!
Get dressed, we're going.
We didn't do anything.
Get moving!
You aren't a little jealous, are you?
-I'll tell Daddy. -No, I'll tell him!
-Thank you very much. -It was a pleasure.
For me too.
Goodnight.
Sorry, I'm so sorry.
It's okay, I kind of liked it.
-Good evening. -Hi.
I'll call you on your mobile.
They left you alone? Where are their manners?
They could have asked. I could have made arrangements.
No school today?
I'm really tired.
Don't you feel well?
Close the door.
March, Spring is on the way.
Dad no longer goes to school.
He might have told mom why, but not me.
He gets up late and wears his pyjamas all day. He won’t talk.
Hush! Hush!
He only leaves the house to work on his bike until evening.
Mother and I are worried.
I've been rather excited.
Gianfilippo texts me every day to say hi.
I think about him often too, but who knows...
TO A SWEET MEZZO-SOPRANO FROM A WOULD-BE BARITONE, GIANFILIPPO
Are you going out with...
'Prince Gianfilippo'?
His parents are loaded rich.
I bet he'll introduce you to his mother.
Geometry test today, guys. Satisfied?
I've never taken the subway. It's convenient.
-Am I late? -No, the movie starts in one hour.
-I want you to meet my mother. -Okay.
-I'm glad you wore that skirt. -Do you like it?
Yes, but that hairclip...
-Should I take it off? -I don't know, lets go.
-Good evening. -Good evening.
-This is Caterina. -Good evening, ma'am.
Hello, dear. Sit down.
Thanks, but we're just here to say hello.
Caterina is such a nice name!
My Dad picked it. My mother wanted Veronica.
She loved that soap opera actress. How silly!
Caterina was a mezzo-soprano in a choir.
It was just a hobby.
It was the Montalto town choir. We used to live there.
How is the remodelling going on your country home?
-We have to go, the movie's starting. -Gianfilippo!
Don't you feel well?
My mother fairly reminded me I still have two Eclogues to translate.
I'm sorry, I had forgotten about it.
It would be my pleasure to pay for a taxi.
Thanks, it's not necessary. I'll take the subway.
I just wanted to be kind.
You're making a mistake, the deputy minister is expecting me.
-I'm sorry. -Tell him Mr. Iacovoni is here.
-Wait here. -Here?
What about here?
This doesn't happen in France.
The Prime Minister!
Are you going to Milan for your next court hearing?
Manlio!
Whose father?
I'll just be an hour or so...
-Good morning. -Good morning.
Sorry to keep you waiting.
I II have a coffee, thanks.
Mr. Minister, thank you for granting me this audience.
I wouldn't go that far!
-How's Caterina? -Just fine.
-She's quite a mature bright girl. -I say the same thing about Daniela.
I met her in person, she’s a very keen young lady...
so intelligent...
in her presence, you feel... I shouldn’t use these expressions.
What can I do for you?
I'm here to discuss a personal situation that...
might surprise you and... knowing you...
outrage you.
Caterina's Dad? He went to parliament to see your dad?
-To the government building! -I can't believe it!
-He's driving my dad crazy. -Didn't he get suspended?
He can't teach for the moment.
He hit a student who was imitating him making a fool of himself on TV!
He slapped his face!
That's serious! My father can't help him, but he wont give up.
My dad says he's crazy and dangerous.
-Poor Caterina! -I feel sorry for her.
-Look at how she dresses. -So old-fashioned.
-Like an immigrant. -At first I thought she was cute.
We tried to civilize her, but she's totally hopeless!
You even tried to fix her up.
Imagine my aunt the snob when Gianfilippo introduced her!
Aunt Andreina's a witch.
'Juden raus!'
-Is someone in here? -Maybe it's broken.
Everything in this whole school is broken!
Come on, lift those heels! Lift those knees!
Come on, lift those heels!
Lift those knees! Lift those knees!
Cate...
are you really upset about that stupid cousin of mine?
I'm talking to you! Answer me.
Get away!
How dare you?
Leave me alone! Got it?
She's insane!
Stop!
Stop Caterina!
I didn't touch her.
-You pushed her! -Mind your own fucking business!
-You are vulgar and arrogant! -Have a bath, you pathetic loser.
-I'll smash your face! -Who, me?
Bitch!
Stop! Stop!
-Marti, are you okay? -Are you okay, Martina?
I II take you to the principal, Mr. Iacovoni.
-Any news? -No.
We should call the police.
These kids do what they want in this school, I'll tell the principal.
One moment, Mr. Germano and Mr. Rossi Chaillet are here.
Of course, the VIP's first...
-One moment, please. -Of course.
Do you realize that Martina had to get an X-ray?
I should suspend the person who hit her, but that wouldn't be fair.
I should also punish the person who started it.
Daniela, stop!
And all your friends who cheered it on instead of stopping it.
Discussing ideas, dialectic debate...
I'll throw that thing out!
is a fundamental educational experience
unless it degenerates into a riot.
Which does happen even in the highest institutions in the country.
I have to leave. Thank you for coming.
Thank you. I apologize again.
-Shake your friend's hand. -Over my dead body.
-Please. -No way. She'll infect me.
Mr. Loiacono?
They're putting me through to the police.
-Didn't we meet on that TV show? -That incredibly boring debate.
I read your latest article and found it very interesting.
-I should be worried. -Then so should I.
-You're Mr... - Iacovoni.
Caterina's father. This is Professor...
Who doesn’t know him?
Any news yet?
We're getting in touch with the police.
I'm so sorry, if there’s anything I can do...
-Excuse me, Manlio... -I'm running late.
-Do you need a lift? -No, thanks. I'm leaving too.
-The best of luck. -Thanks.
The police are on their way.
We haven't heard from the girl.
-Are they looking for you? -I think so.
-Follow me this way. -Okay.
Where are we going?
Come on.
Why are they looking for you?
I ran away from school, I made a mess.
We can watch.
Sit down.
My poor mother!
Right, thanks.
-Are you okay, honey? -Yes.
-I'm on my way. -Where are you?
I'll explain everything later.
I love you too.
You can see everything from here.
Like a soap opera with a crazy storyline.
One day you come home looking all grunge.
The next day like a pop star, like Jennifer Lopez...
You get out of big cars with a chauffeur
or off a scooter with guys who try to kiss you.
-Who are you, really? -What else did you see?
I should respect your privacy, but...
Your father paces back and forth all night.
But your mother is the mysterious one.
She does senseless things when she's alone.
She gets angry at an empty chair.
My mother?
Sometimes she cries and that man comforts her.
Fabietto?
Sometimes they talk for hours and laugh like children.
-Really? -I'm serious.
But you are the character closest to my heart.
Actually I'm a little excited that you're here.
-I'd like your autograph... -Don't be silly!
-What's your name? -Edward.
-You're Caterina, right? -Are you English?
Australian.
-I guess I should go. -Wait.
-Bye-bye Edward. -Bye.
-Dinner's ready. -I'm not hungry, thanks.
Please, Caterina.
I want to apologize. I know exactly how you feel.
It's not your fault.
You're just like me...
we're the victims of all this.
You should have seen those two...
your friends' fathers.
Two peas in a pod. They belonged to the same party:
the ones who know how the world works.
Their daughters, your friends...
come from the same mould.
They're identical.
Privileged people...
we're nothing to them.
-Giancarlo... -This time let me talk!
Let me talk because it's important!
The only thing people like us can rely on is our own strength!
I used to think we could make it because of this.
But I was wrong.
Caterina, it's all pointless.
-Please... -It's true!
They ignore us, they treat us like toys!
We're just puppets in life who aren't allowed to have fuck all!
No satisfaction at work,
or a nice house, or people's respect.
Nothing!
Sit down.
What...
Mum!
Sit down.
Tastes good.
Caterina, they're crazy!
-How did it go? -It was a breeze.
You don't have to review it, its easy.
I'm still scared to death.
-Marghe! -Wait.
-What are you doing next year? -Maybe a technical school.
-What about the music conservatory? -That's just a dream.
-Try and get into Santa Cecilia. -I doubt they'll accept me.
Why not?
Because...
I finally finished!
-Iacovoni, it's your turn. -I'm coming.
-Bye-bye, Cate. -Bye.
-Good luck. -Thanks.
Agata!
-Yes? -Honey, I know what to do now.
-Me and you on the bike... -Your wife is hanging laundry.
Stop it, are you crazy?
I can't keep this up.
I can't leave him.
-Just because you're afraid of him? -Afraid?
No, look at him. He'd never make it on his own.
-What about you? -I said stop it!
What about me?
Fabio, we just can't.
-What's it? -I don't know.
Come on, help me!
Everyone was upset when I got home.
My father had left on his bike without telling anyone.
They called the police and hospitals, but no sign of him.
Not the next day, nor the day after.
Not even a phone call.
Even a famous TV show talked about him.
The host read some of my father's book.
She thought it would help solve the mystery.
"I'll leave everything and everyone. This world of thieves and amateurs.
And I'll go find that other world that's always been inside of me.
That world of warm wind and rolling waves."
Putting aside the literary quality...
One night in late June Aunt Adelina passed away.
Everyone said she used to be beautiful and wanted to be an opera singer.
Everyone finally cried their hearts out at the funeral.
For different reasons, perhaps.
But as the weeks passed something really weird happened.
That horrible event seemed so long ago.
As if a spell had been cast on us.
Maybe because summer came and it was the hottest in the past 250 years.
I wanted to say goodbye, and see if... That's terrible!
I wanted to say goodbye and see if you wanted to come on holiday with us.
-We're leaving too. -See you in September then.
We're going back to my dad's in Sydney.
You didn't tell me.
In our soap opera, my parents decided they’re in love again.
I hope.
So we'll never see each other again. I'm sorry.
Me too.
It was nice knowing you.
Yes, okay.
Bye.
Call me when you get there.
We'll pick you up at the station on Wednesday.
I II confirm our reservation at that bed-and-breakfast.
-Do they have sheets? -Of course, you ask strange questions.
Bon voyage!
Stop the car!
If we meet again, I'd like us to...
I'd like to be your girlfriend.
Thank you.
Let's go!
-Do you like that boy? -Like crazy! Drive!
Call me when you get there.
We don't think about my father running away anymore.
Maybe because we secretly hope he's happier now wherever he is.
Three words.
The third.
-No More Belly. -That's not a movie.
Sometimes my mother wakes up at night and gets into bed with me.
But in general, she’s pretty happy.
I m not doing bad either.
I figured out why, watching an animal documentary on TV.
-Put that diary away. -My glasses!
It said that unlike fish who can only see sideways,
and flies who can see all around,
humans can only look forward.
Santa Cecilia Music Conservatory Rome
Final Recital (1st, 2nd and 5th year)