ADUA AND HER FRIENDS
Come on, boys, we're closing.
- No present for Granny? - Next time.
Yes, when they're open again.
Long life, strong love line, good luck is on its way. You'll be happy, Nina.
- Love or money? - Both. You were born lucky.
Yes, on your back.
...22, 23, 24, 25, 26. 26 and 8. - 34.
What's up with Adua? Is she in love?
Coming up, Margot?
Margot? Tonight I'm Concetta again. I'm a respectable girl.
Sure. From the knees down.
- Bye. - Bye, handsome.
Face like a schoolboy, but he's a real pig.
So now we've closed down.
I thought something special would happen on our last evening.
What, like fireworks on New Year's Eve?
- No-one even realized. - Oh, yes they did'.
Especially the soldiers.
- Why are you looking at me like that? - Me? Who's looking?
- Why, can't I even look? - So look at this, then.
I had a guy today who'd never been before.
Poor thing. He was curious to see one before they closed.
Just think about those boys who'll be 18 tomorrow. Real bad luck.
What does it matter now if it leaves a mark?
Can you do my bill? It's 28, but I'll keep one as a souvenir.
Here's 3,000 lire from the bar, 1,200 for cigarettes and a tip for Granny.
Who'd ever forget about you, Granny?
What are you doing? Let me go!
- Hi, Adua! - You're off?
- Yes, I'm getting the next train. - Good luck, and keep in touch!
- Bye. - Bye.
At least we're finished with these stairs.
I reckon 40 steps for a fortnight is like scaling K2.
I started four years ago with a soldier and I finished tonight with a brigadier.
That's quite a career!
If you came in with us you'd keep us cheerful.
I'm finished with all that now. I'm off to Dino in Milan, remember?
We'll keep a dairy shop. He'll serve, I'll do the till.
All day sitting down.
How much? 150. Here's your change.
He wrote to say it's going well.
In a year we could be earning 300,000 a month.
Did you pay a lot for it?
Don't ask! I've been sending Dino money for five years.
- When are we meeting tomorrow? - About one, wasn't it?
I didn't phone.
What's happening? Is Marilina coming with you?
- She says so. - She has her bad moments.
Her last moment lasted five days. But she's a good girl.
It's been like home for me for 30 years, just think.
In all modesty, there weren't many establishments like this one.
You've been like daughters to me.
And now you'll all be going your separate ways.
Some of you might even come to a bad end.
What's the matter with you? Look at her!
I can't help it. I even used to cry on the last day of school.
Marilina... telephone!
I'll get her.
Oh... you're so rude.
Look how pretty Timbuktu is with a ring in her nose!
- Hey, stop it, all right? - What's up with you?
Telephone!
It's Adua on the phone.
Come on, it's Adua.
- Who cares? - But you said...
- I've changed my mind. - But we agreed...
OK, I might come. But just go away.
Idiot.
First yes, then no. What sort of behavior is that?
- What am I supposed to say? - Talking to yourself?
Mind your own business.
- Well? - I'll take it.
Hello... no, it's me, Lolita.
What do you mean, she doesn't want to? Marilina's already up to her tricks.
Tell her to stop playing around.
About one o'clock. Tell her noon, then she won't be late.
I wanted to tell you, because of Stefano... You understand, right?
I won't have any money tomorrow.
I'll have the money on Wednesday when Stefano comes back.
Yes, Wednesday, don't worry.
Just a minute, Adua?
What shall I wear tomorrow? Formal or informal?
Whatever you like. Just wear something.
Adua, come and look.
OK, agreed. Bye.
Yes, laugh. You're really crazy. I can't stand you any longer.
Turn that radio off.
You've been smoking my cigarettes. Excuse me, have you got a cigarette?
Have one of these. Excuse us.
Adua, what are you doing? Stealing the menu?
Keep quiet. You've got a very loud voice, my dear!
Seen what they're charging? 1,000 lire cover charge.
That's not a lot. Just wait till we're doing the bills.
Imagine Adua making out the bill.
Bread 100 lire, fruit 200, Marilina 5,000.
Am I being rude? OK, let's say 10,000 for Marilina.
Shame. If it weren't for the shop I'd join you.
- We'd have such a good laugh. - Come on, let's go.
Come on. Get up.
- The radio! - Get a move on.
I'm coming.
If you're in Milan, come to my dairy shop.
We'll have orgies with mozzarella. Driver, I'll tell you where to stop.
Bye, Fosca. Give Dino my love.
How old is this car?
- It's running in. - Just like me.
Write and tell me all about it.
What a bore!
- Look, I was there in '56. - But I was there, it was in '57.
'56. If it was '57, I knew Fosca first.
- No. - You do go on. I remember it perfectly.
- That's enough. - I'm not a fool.
- Just ask Fosca. - It's locked. Fetch the key.
Outside we can put some tables.
Hey, you two!
If you don't want to listen, the taxi's there.
I can find millions of girls like you.
So this is our house? I like it. What's it like inside?
It's lovely. There's a staircase.
I can't see anything.
Straighten up, you'll be like a telescope.
Hey, you naughty thing!
Look, just do your job. Who do you think we are?
Sure, you're all princesses.
You should see how they do artichokes here! Much better than ours!
- Is it big? How many rooms? - Four upstairs. One room each.
- Don't you like it? - It's a dump.
- This will be the kitchen. - And the restaurant will be here.
Of course it needs cleaning, what do you expect?
Certainly does! Is it all like this?
Yes, madam, it's all like this.
I told you there was a lot to do. Were you expecting a palace?
Anyway, we're just opening a simple country restaurant.
The restaurant's not the most important thing.
It's a bit run down, but it's big.
I don't care about this part, I want to see upstairs.
You can go up here and get out from the back. That's convenient.
It's so gloomy!
I'm already depressed.
Wait till it's restored. The biggest expense is bathrooms, we'll need two.
- Which is my room? - I want a room with a view.
A lizard! Milly, where are you? Kill it!
Look, I've ruined my shoes. We've got to replace the floors.
- I'm investing money in this dump? - You'd rather give it to a pimp?
Speak for yourself. I've never paid a man.
I've paid them and thrown them out when I got tired of them.
- Adua, why don't you... - I don't want to know.
Just take it or leave it.
If you want to carry on working, just listen to me.
Understood?
As soon as the restaurant gets going we can start working upstairs.
And better than before. No boss to exploit us.
And it's all in order, because it's really a restaurant.
- We haven't got a license yet. - We'll get it, you'll see.
We're like everyone else now, we're not registered.
They've burned the records. We're just ordinary women now.
It'd be easier if you'd brought proper money.
Don't you think that's real money? Don't you know what a check is?
The cashier will sort it out.
Aha. So, then?
- Um... since... - Whenever she starts with "since"...
- Come on, what's the problem? - Stefano couldn't stop in Rome.
He's in a hurry?
It's just for a few days. But here's 500,000.
- Well done! - But we agreed two million each.
- Not a good start. - It's not my fault.
- I'm taking back my money. - Why?
I'm pulling out. Equal shares or nothing.
For God's sake...
Listen, I'll stand surety for Lolita. Is that OK?
If that pig doesn't pay her back, I'll pay her share.
Happy? Good.
Let's write. "Lolita 500,000..."
That's us!
Have the money ready. Let's not make fools of ourselves.
Opening a current account. Will you sign, madam?
We've all got to sign. We're partners.
Can you sign, or just make a cross?
This bed to the first floor.
That's not mine. Mine's got the red plush headboard.
- Stop it, you're not the only one here. - How am I going to get my bed up?
I haven't even got a piece of my bed. Where am I going to sleep tonight?
Why don't you come down?
What do you think? The wardrobe here or there?
I'd put it here, and the dressing table opposite.
Would you move it for me? Remember how nice it looked in Milan?
- I've never been to Milan. - And this one over there.
It's lovely. I'd have bought it myself.
My dressing table! Where the hell am I supposed to put my things?
On the floor? It's like being a servant!
Nobody cares about my stuff.
Why don't you sort it out? You only care about your own things.
It's just dumb Adua who bothers about the rest.
What's all this then?
Patience is a great virtue, sisters. Are you the new owners?
- Yes. - Good.
It's a healthy place. The air is clean.
It was before. Now there's a factory that smokes all the time.
Careful! Let me.
Where did he come from?
He should do removals. I'd make a good monk.
Good luck! A monk!
Congratulations. Good stuff you've got here, sisters.
Are you opening a hotel?
- No, a restaurant. - Good. Good.
I'm from the convent over there.
Our pig would appreciate any scraps from the kitchen.
We'll send them over.
Don't trouble yourselves. I come this way every day.
- Who's this? How many of you are there? - There are four of us, Father.
- Are you sisters? - No, that would be too much!
- Goodbye for now. - Goodbye.
Will you bless us, Father?
I would, but it doesn't count, I'm just a servant.
Live in happiness and peace.
Whose stuff is this?
There's no gas in the kitchen.
But there's no light either.
What, no light? Did you apply for it?
No.
I forgot. OK?
What are you looking at? I'm not the only person here.
Don't make such a fuss, there are candles in the drawer.
Move over. Let me get past.
I've only just sat down. Use the other stairs.
Why should I go outside? Move over.
- I'm not moving. - I have to go upstairs. Move over.
- Adua, look at her. - Let her get through.
Stay where you are. Don't move.
Don't interfere.
Watch it, you're getting on my nerves.
Watch it? You ought to thank us on your bended knees.
We're not all old like you.
Good thing for you the brothels are closed, you'd end up in the cheapest.
You know what they used to say about you? Go on, tell her.
Are you too scared to repeat it? It's what you told me.
I might end up in a 200 lire brothel, but you'll end up in a madhouse.
- Like that drunkard, your father. - Go on!
Your mind is sick. And you'll never get better.
You even had a baby.
What about your baby?
The one that was still-born.
- Come on, shift over. - No.
- Mother of God. - I said she was crazy.
Fine. So are you going to help me, or do I have to do it myself?
- What's for supper this evening? - Jesus Christ! We'll eat the candles.
Marilina, where are you going?
Shut the door.
I'm going to bed. Good night.
A good start for our money.
You're not helping at all.
Adua, are you asleep?
- What do you want? - Since I was alone...
Are you frightened?
Sit down over there.
How did I wind up with you people?
One walks out, another obstinate as a mule, and you're scared of the dark.
Who do you think you are?
What would you do in my place?
I was in Africa during the war.
In a tent, always with a line outside.
Poor devils. Next day they were dead.
They all came... but it didn't kill me.
Are you asleep?
Sleep. You don't really care.
You're right, I don't care either.
Are you crazy? You want to kill yourself?
Open up!
What are you doing at this time of night?
I'll rent the room.
You don't know what you're doing. Come in.
I'm at home.
What are you wearing? You look like a ghost.
Lolita left it. I use it as a nightgown.
It suits you.
- Where are you going? - Upstairs.
- Got anything to drink? - More? I can make a cup of tea.
- Tea? Don't be silly. - There's a bottle of something...
Well, open it! What are you waiting for?
She'd even drink altar wine.
I'll put it down here.
There's my hen.
How are you?
And the chicks?
1... 2... 3... 4... 5...
5...
Only 5?
One's missing.
- Where's my chick? - What?
There used to be six. I told you never to touch my things.
What's this disgusting stuff?
Marsala... are you crazy?
It's all I had. The young lady left it behind.
Here's what I think of your Marsala!
We're open again!
Come on up!
Anyone at home?
No-one here?
They're in, all right.
- Did you ring? - Sure. I've been here ages.
Don't bother, there's no electricity.
They said I was being difficult and that they'd use candles.
Go on, ring a candle.
- Do you live here? - Unfortunately.
- This is for Adua Giovannetti. - For the boss!
If you had a letter box I could deliver your mail.
Send it by post.
- Here's the letter box. - I didn't notice. Goodbye.
- He didn't even see that. - Stop it now.
- What a pity, they're still in bed. - That's where you should be.
So it's you. Welcome back.
- Thanks for the lift. - That's OK. Bye.
I'm a friend. I met her in a bar and brought her home.
Thanks. She went out to enjoy herself a bit.
I understand. May I?
Nice.
You've got a good place here.
- Good idea. - What idea?
For a restaurant. Perfect place.
Not too far from the city, secluded, quiet...
- Can I use your phone? - We haven't even got gas or light.
Tell me, did you already know my friend Marilina?
- Marilina had this for you. - Throw it down.
Airmail.
I've got bad news for you.
- I'm going. - Really? That's awful.
And worse... I'll be back soon.
- If you really want to. - Goodbye.
Goodbye. And thanks.
My God! Nine-thirty!
Not bad looking. Who is he?
Adua, what's the matter?
But it's impossible! They promised!
What are you talking about?
It was all in order. Why?
Because the police know who we are.
- They said they'd burn the files. - They must have lost their matches.
- They're not giving us a license? - Great! Furniture, workmen, rent...
Just as well I only put in 500,000.
- That's a really stupid thing to say. - What was wrong with it?
They gave Fosca a license. We should have applied for a dairy license.
Yes, and you'd take housemaids upstairs with their bottles of milk.
- Dr. Ercoli, please. - In the salon. Show these ladies.
- He's over there. - Thank you.
You wait here. I'll speak to him first.
- Hello, Doctor. - Please sit down.
So here I am.
- The others? - Down there. Shall I call them?
No, it's fine.
A dress like that... but not red, what's that new color?
- Teal. - How refined!
Careful, he's watching us.
I know the one on the right, I've seen her often.
Make the other one turn round.
- Lolita! - Me?
She's 23.
Firstly, the house and land are in order?
Yes, but we need a license.
That's nothing, it's the rest that's important.
What possessed you to take a rented house?
You need your head checked! That way you'll all get cheated.
Well...
- Gicosi. - Coming, Doctor.
Tomorrow you will sort out the land. Gicosi will deal with everything.
I've got all the documents ready. Shall I go to the lawyer?
- Go, go. - And the other things?
Other things? I'll buy the property, you pay me rent.
For the first two months, no men.
Then when the restaurant's going, you can get started.
You'll pay me a million per month.
- A million? - That's not much.
Girls like you can earn double that.
I'd better talk to the others about it.
It's OK like this. I've got the house, land, license, no-one will bother you.
I'll even send you customers. You just get working.
You can't manage anything on your own.
You're in trouble before you've even started.
Keep in touch with Gicosi.
So... a lemon frappé. What are you having?
- Strawberry ice cream. - I'm sure they're wonderful here.
RESTAURANT
Two customers!
Idiot, come away from there!
- But didn't it say "restaurant"? - Let's go and have a look.
- What are we going to give them? - There's nothing ready.
- Who'll serve them? - You.
What do I say?
Service! Where are they?
Hello, gentlemen, what can I serve you?
- A beer. - Is that all?
- A beer and two glasses. - Very funny.
They had a beer, dirtied the cloth and even wanted a date.
Not bad for our first day. 90 lire.
- Look, I've done it. - Aren't you going to eat the apple?
I don't like apples, I just like peeling them.
What are you laughing about?
I'm thinking of that 90 lire. And he's expecting a million.
A million a month!
If it's like this every day...
- Hello. - Hello.
Enjoy your meal, don't let me disturb you.
- But if you really insist... - A real customer at last.
Watch him, he could sell a car to the boss of Fiat.
So you deal in cars?
Yes, and I've got just the car for you.
A jewel, a beautiful car for a beautiful lady.
It's wonderful... all yellow!
It's so big!
Want to try? Let's go for a spin.
Who said I needed a car?
No obligation, no-one's forcing you.
It doesn't cost anything to try.
It's a bit big, but we could do with a car here.
Yeah, sure.
Come on Adua, let's buy it.
That's all we need now.
So this is the jewel?
Sure. Comfortable, practical, smart, easy to drive...
And it's cheap.
So let's go for a drive.
- I'll be back soon. - Bye.
- I'd buy him as well. - How does he know Marilina?
- He says he was a friend of Rosy. - Who's Rosy? Do I know her?
I don't know. I worked with a Rosy in Milan.
Has he gone? Why didn't you tell him to wait for me?
- Silly of me! - At least you realize it.
Marilina, wait!
Where are you going? You're not going to leave me here alone!
There are only our dishes to wash.
I'm going to see Stefano and get my money.
Marilina, wait for me!
Just four plates, eh? There'd be three if she washed her own.
They can't just leave me like this.
Waiter!
Who is it now?
Waiter!
What am I supposed to do now?
What can I give him?
- Why have we stopped? - Let's smoke a cigarette.
That's what we're doing. And you're chain-smoking.
Is it to save matches?
I've heard it all, they even ask me if I smoke in my sleep.
Even if I put it out when I'm making love.
And do you put it out?
No. Look, do you trust me?
Well...
You should trust Piero Salvagni.
I'll tell you what. I'll leave you the car.
Keep it for a week, a month, a year.
If you like it, keep it.
It's worth a million, yours for 600 thousand.
I'll give it back now.
Think about it. A cat in a hurry has blind kittens.
If the cat doesn't make up its mind, the mice eat it.
Mice? Do I look like a mouse?
Look, here's the radio, fan... And who'd want to eat you?
And the reclining seat.
It comes up like this.
Here's the spray and the wipers.
Yes. It's true, Piero Salvagni. I don't trust you.
Not an inch.
I know all about men, I know what you're after.
You look safe but you've got the eyes of a snake.
- And I'm not falling for them. - First a mouse, now a snake.
You think I do this each time I sell a car?
Not the car... but what you're thinking.
I've been a big girl for a while and I've known plenty like you.
You can play that game with Milly or Lolita, OK?
You're the one I like.
Good choice. Sounds almost true.
It's true.
What nerve. Every word, two lies.
You see it like that?
Wait.
Listen, you liar. Let's get things straight.
This is where it starts and finishes.
Aren't you going to lower the seat?
What does that mean, "100 mugs"?
"100 mugs, 100 caps."
- What's that supposed to mean? - 100 heads, 100 hats.
It means everyone's different.
When I was training for the police, I studied surveying.
- Did you take your exams in Sardinia? - No, here on the mainland.
But aren't a surveyor and an engineer the same?
Well, the engineers do the designs and we watch over the work.
- Is there a knife? - Over there.
Give me one too.
Thanks. What do you want, Gorgonzola or Gruyère?
- I love Gorgonzola. - Me, too.
Where I come from, we've got even better cheeses.
They bury them covered in sage, they're ready in three months.
Remember, you're making me a chicken-liver frittata.
Yes, but I told you...
Where I come from, we sauté the livers and add breadcrumbs.
It's much tastier that way. If you come again I'll make it.
Of course I'll come again, our site is just over there.
I should be at work. Can I have my bill?
Bill? You can pay next time.
You're in a hurry now.
Tell me the truth. How long have you been open?
Not long. You really want to know? You're our first customer.
Thanks.
- Keep your hands to yourself! - I didn't do anything.
So who was it, then?
Thanks for the ride... In the car, I mean.
Bye, boys. You know where I live now.
- Be quiet, you fool! - What's the matter?
Hello.
Goodbye, then.
- You see, I work over there. - Really near.
- Goodbye. - Goodbye.
You didn't even tell me your name.
I'm Mi... Caterina. Caterina Zellero.
What are you doing? It's far too thick.
Concentrate on the spaghetti, you're acting like a chemist.
- The meat's burning. - I'm coming.
There's far too much salt.
What do you mean? I only put in a spoonful.
Who told you to? I put in two spoonfuls.
Who told you to? I made the sauce, I added the salt.
- You should have told us. - Why? You shouldn't interfere.
Anyone can add salt.
Let me put in the salt, it'll stop you quarrelling.
Done. You're squabbling like schoolgirls and we have two more customers.
- The steaks and salad? - Ready.
- Where's the salad? - In the drainer, of course.
Oh, and we need two more spaghettis.
It needs cooking... There, on the scales.
- I'm going to sit down. - Who gives a damn!
- The spaghetti? - Here.
- Too many cooks in here. - You just keep quiet.
Do what you like, I'm exhausted.
Good day, daughters, hard at work?
Give me the salad, the steaks are getting cold.
I've only got two hands.
- God bless you all. - Thanks, Father.
All right, let's do the sauce again.
- Don't try... - I can do it, I can!
Milly, come here, I can't open this tin. I cut my finger, damn it.
It looks like we're cooking for an army.
- Your steak, sir. - Thank you.
What vegetables have you got?
Sorry?
Could I have a salad with rocket and radishes?
And some thinly-sliced cucumber and a tomato...
- We've haven't got any. - No tomato?
We haven't got the other things either.
- So what vegetables have you got? - The lettuce is finished.
An artichoke? Raw...
- Some mozzarella, then. - All right.
I'm sorry sir, we haven't even got any mozzarella.
Not even mozzarella? Could I have some fruit, then?
- A nice apple? - All right, an apple.
Lolita, listen. This is a restaurant.
- For the time being, at least. - And?
And try not to wiggle your bum so much.
I saw her winking at a customer.
I didn't wink, his wife was there.
I was smiling politely. Can't we even smile?
- Yes, but smile properly. - What a fuss.
- I've never worked as a waitress. - Where's the mineral water?
Milly, your customer's arrived.
Now we've lost her.
Look, I made it again today. But if you'd rather have something else...
No, I'm kidding. It's my favorite.
- First course? - Spaghetti.
It's ready. Then I'll bring your favorite.
Tomorrow, I'll try adding some onion.
Will you let me do your hair?
- Please. - What a bore.
I saw a lovely style in a fashion magazine.
- What's wrong with it? - Everything. Even the gears...
He's ripped you off, I told you so.
Don't be cheeky!
It's not easy to rip me off. I'm not Lolita.
Leave the poor thing out of it this time.
Stefano's giving her back her money tomorrow, isn't he?
Yes, and don't joke about it.
He's out of town now, his landlady told me.
- He was hiding in the toilet. - He's in Sicily with the company.
Where he'll find another idiot like you to play his showgirl.
Better to play the showgirl than work as a servant.
The work was easier before.
That's what I said. When are we going to start again?
Less tiring... And I like it more.
Where can I wash?
I'd like to wash my hands.
- There's a sink over there. - Thanks.
Shall we play with him?
Ladies... onstage!
Give me that money! You're in trouble this time.
You can't cheat me like that, I'll teach you!
- OK, stop it now. - Are you hurt?
- Want something? A brandy? - No, why?
A glass of water.
I don't know... Something about an apartment, 200,000...
Mr. Salvagni.
Commander! How are you?
- The car? - It's just coming. You're so punctual!
Here it is! Come along.
You're here.
Listen, you clown, let's get this straight.
You keep quiet, I'll do the talking. Don't you want to sell it?
Commander, come here. Watch how I deal with him.
Madame, leave it here, the policeman's a friend of mine.
Officer, it's all right, I know the lady.
Madame, allow me to introduce Commander Massano.
Let's have a look at it. Isn't it a gem?
Look, the paintwork is perfect. It's magnificent. And new brakes.
And look at the upholstery!
The lady wants to sell because she's ordered a later model.
You've got to try it, it's a marvel. Tell the Commander how it drives.
- It's really... - There, what did I say?
It's a status symbol, just the car for you.
- What about petrol consumption? - You're joking!
Tell him, don't let him hear it just from me.
Not a lot, about 4 kilometers a liter...
- Four? - She means miles, it's an American car.
Four miles, about seven kilometers, just like a Fiat 1100.
I swear, it's a bargain you'll thank me for.
Anyway, we'll try it out. Just let me find the lady a taxi.
Have a coffee while you're waiting, it's paid for.
Goodbye, Commander.
Only a moment, Officer.
My compliments. What smooth talking!
- You've got to be smart in my job. - So I've seen.
- Look, Adua, do you like this one? - No, why?
You gave me 400 thousand for that one, this is worth much more.
I'll give it in exchange. Doctor, I'm taking this one.
- Get in, it's yours - I don't want it.
Try it. Give it back if you don't like it.
Then you'll give me a Vespa in exchange.
This one is perfect for you. Come on, start it up.
It goes like a Ferrari.
What's the matter? You've got to trust me, understand?
You and me, eh?
Go, go. I'll come and see you down at the restaurant. Bye.
We're just going. Commander, here I am.
Here's the starter... Handbrake... Indicator...
- Is that you? - Hi there!
- Here, catch! - What is it?
- It's a surprise. Open it. - What is it?
Hey, it won't explode. 100,000 lire, nothing to fear.
I made 200 from your old banger. 100 each.
So are you coming down or am I coming up?
I'll come down.
- How much? - 850.
- Keep the change. - Thank you, miss. Good night.
Come on, Carletto.
We're here.
We'll go to bed now.
Keep quiet.
Is that you, Marilina?
Hi there.
Just as well you're back, we've had so many customers.
- How's your little boy? - Well. Thanks for asking.
But you've brought him here?
Evening...
Did you see? She's brought the boy.
Be good, OK?
Pajamas...
- So you brought him here? - As you can see.
- Poor thing. Are you sleepy? - Leave him alone. He doesn't know you.
- You'll frighten him like that. - Quiet, I'm trying to sleep.
Good idea. What possessed you?
- Couldn't you leave him with the nanny? - This is my house, paid with my money.
So I'll bring anyone I want. I've only seen him ten times.
At least for a few days.
You're not getting up to anything. It's like a convent here.
You go to sleep now.
What's going on here?
Behaving like a landlady, and she hasn't paid a penny.
- I'll do what I want too, sometimes. - I paid 500,000.
- What's the matter with her? - She's brought her kid.
What kid?
Marilina, he's crying.
Have you got tummy ache?
No. Why?
What was I doing? Talking?
Did I wake you up?
Go to sleep now.
- Why aren't you asleep? - The light's on.
- Do you always sleep in the dark? - Light's expensive.
- What's this? You've got a bump. - I don't know.
Let me see. Have you always had it?
I don't know.
You must sleep now.
Ah, the light.
I can't sleep in the dark... Oh, God.
Are you afraid? Give me your hand.
Put the meat under there. They can bring the fruit later.
What are you doing here?
What a state you're in!
- Where's your mommy? - She's asleep.
You take care of him.
Oh, poor thing!
37.7, almost 38.
And such a headache.
I'm all alone here.
Are you busy, Adua? Really?
Please, just this once.
And you can bring me some cigarettes, too.
Hurry up!
OK, I'll come over. Before all hell breaks loose here.
I'll be right back. He says he's ill.
Don't forget the fish, Carmela can help you.
He's here.
He was hungry.
Jesus.
Couldn't you wake me up?
I got such a fright.
Come in quickly, it's so cold here.
- What's the matter with you? - Pain in the shoulder, I feel bad.
You've caught cold. Or a chill.
Chill? It might be pleurisy.
You know what the pleura is? It's that membrane round the lungs.
It starts here... and it hurts here.
- Have you taken anything? - Aspirin, pills, nose drops...
And three packets of cigarettes.
What have you brought me?
Hey, are you mad? Do you want to kill me?
A friend of mine had the same thing. He got over it in two hours.
I can't remember what he took for it.
Who does your cleaning?
I'll call him now.
I sold him a Giulietta Sprint, a real bargain.
Hello? Dr. Renzi?
He's out of the office? Give me the director, it's urgent.
He's with the director, a real big shot.
Dr. Renzi, it's Piero, Piero Salvagni.
How's the car? I told you it was a bargain.
All right, I understand.
I'm coming!
It's such a mess in here.
What does it matter?
You always leave me alone. Where have you been?
What did your friend say?
Who? He didn't remember.
I'm really ill. I don't understand what anyone's saying.
No, he's out.
I said he wasn't in.
Do what you like, then.
Who told you to do that? It's none of your business!
Can't I be left in peace in my own home?
One day I'll...
What's got into you?
What'll you do?
Nothing, what do you think?
I didn't mean it.
What can I do? Just go on with it.
If only I was on my own.
Are you married?
Are you crazy? That was my mother.
When I remember, I send her money.
She wants to know everything I do, where I've been.
I tell her a pack of lies.
Sometimes I forget what I said the day before.
Always hanging round my neck!
Listen to this disc I bought yesterday!
Those trains. How do you stand it?
They keep me company. I like the noise.
Listen to that!
Keep covered.
Does it hurt?
Yes, it's starting again.
Will you give me a massage?
Down a bit. There!
I'm so cold. Come into bed and warm me up a bit.
- No. - Why not?
- I don't know. - What's the matter now?
I'm telling you, I don't know.
Turn round.
Strange. I feel shy with you.
Adua! Modugno's here!
- The singer? - Yes, Modugno!
Just as well you're back, we're snowed under.
- He liked the frittata. He wants more. - It's finished.
Your sardine must be tired of eating it every day. Perhaps he won't come today.
He'll come. And he's not a sardine, he's a Sardinian.
And he's a customer, just like the others. Just give me a hand here.
18 customers, all these plates to do.
The meat's on the stove, we've got to wash the salad, but I'm going.
Need a hand? I'll wash the salad.
I always do it at the convent.
When he talks it's different from when he sings.
Brother Michele washing the salad!
I'm earning the pig's dinner.
He's fattening up nicely.
Do you think she'll make it as a singer?
Another one! What a fine family!
Nice place you've got. And the food's good.
Thanks, Mr. Modugno. We'll do even better next time.
We've only just opened.
You should do pasta with sardines.
Of course, I'll tell the cook.
You see, she hasn't quite got the warmth...
I put it in the boot of the car. Run and fetch it.
Good idea.
We've been waiting 10 minutes for our first course.
I'll go and see.
Decide what you want for the main course, better order it now.
Milly, did you see him?
- Modugno? Of course. - No, the lawyer there, with his wife.
Yes, it's him, he always used to come.
Excuse me, where can I wash my hands?
Outside, on the right.
I'll be back in a minute.
When do we get some food?
How are you?
Fine, thanks.
I hoped... I thought you didn't recognize me.
What a surprise to see you here! What are you doing?
You see? We've got a restaurant.
Come off it. With a waitress like that?
- Isn't that... - Caterina.
No... "Golden Thighs"... Milly!
I get it.
I think I'll be coming here often. Without my wife, of course.
You can bring your wife, we haven't started upstairs.
Better if she doesn't know the way here.
- Aren't you going to wash your hands? - I don't need to.
Small world.
- Haven't they brought anything? - It'll come sometime.
Some bread, even.
Bad idea of yours to stop here.
And the food won't be any good.
He's going to sing!
I'll dedicate this song to all proud lovers.
He's a tenor, isn't he?
I want some, too.
Just a sip. It's not good for you.
Father?
To get baptized...
What's the maximum age you can do it?
Baptism? Aren't you baptized?
I am, but...
The boy? So what are you waiting for?
When he was born I was ill.
And you know how things get put off.
You were ill. Couldn't his father arrange it?
There's always time. Jesus was baptized when he was 30.
- There you are. - But we chose one with frosted glass.
It's much nicer if you can see what's inside.
What are we going to put in it?
Everything. Meat here, vegetables there...
Wine, fish, fruit... the lot!
It's beautiful.
What's he telling her out there? He hasn't shut his mouth for a second.
Look at his face! He won't repay her.
"Stefano, Stefano!" What a hope.
You, me, Grazia, Doris, two actors, some dancing... This meat's good, isn't it?
- Excellent. - And we'll have Totò Brusca.
- Who's that? - You don't know who Totò Brusca is?
Tell her, Calypso.
You're out of touch. He won the Salerno Festival.
They were all after him, but I got in first. Show her the contract.
- It's all right, I believe you. - Pass the salad.
How's the salad? Tender?
- Wonderful. - We've got all of Wanda's new costumes.
- Remember that act "Pink Samba"? - Yes, I was supposed to go with Osiris that year.
We'll use them when you do your turn with Calypso.
- Me... with him? - You haven't seen him on stage.
Not classical stuff... but there's no-one to beat his modern dancing.
Show her the photo. This salad would be perfect with some anchovy.
- I'll get some if you like. - Perhaps later, with some cheese.
Did you notice the bouquet of this wine?
- Exquisite! - He looks OK in tails.
Listen, Lolita, I know what I'm doing. And I'm a big name in the South.
When they see "Bamboo and his Troupe" they're happy to buy tickets.
One night in Bari they had to call the police.
We start in Palermo on the 25th. We're booked all over Sicily.
20 days in Naples. We'll make two million in three months.
And you'll stay here as a waitress? You've invested 500,000?
Give me that 500,000, come back to the theatre, you'll have your daily pay.
You'll earn back all the money you gave me.
- As a lady, not a servant. - Yes, a servant. That's all I am here.
I'll take my money and go back to the theatre.
Don't forget the anchovies!
- You think 500,000 is enough? - Even 400.
If we go down any more, we'll end with 10,000.
I've made up my mind, I'm going back to the theatre.
I'm leaving and I want my money back.
Just when it's going well? You want to make things difficult?
I don't care, it's my money. I gave you 500,000.
Give it back or I'll go to a lawyer, I'll take you to court.
Go upstairs. We'll talk later.
You bitch! I want my money!
Just keep out of the way.
I want my money!
You see? She's OK, her friends are the problem.
Wiping your plate? They'll really think you're dying of hunger.
We won't get a penny here.
- You think we'd better... - It's the best thing...
Did you ask for your bill?
We were guests.
I'm the only person here who has guests.
We've been your guests, then. Thank you.
So you've had a free meal and we've avoided being fleeced.
No, look... call Lolita.
Don't worry, I'll speak to Lolita.
- There's some mistake here. - No mistake. Come on.
3,600 lire.
Robbers!
- Come on, join us. - No.
- Don't be like that! - No.
Do I have to say sorry?
She's so obstinate!
Open your mouth.
It's sugar.
It's not sugar.
- I renounce him. - I renounce him.
- Who are we renouncing? - Satan.
I'm the only lay brother in the convent, I do all the cooking, cleaning...
- Here's the cake. - It's too much for me.
Get some poor person to help.
Well, it's not that easy to find one.
- Here's the cake. Congratulations! - Who made it? Milly?
She's too busy thinking about her boyfriend. Adua bought it this morning.
- Here, take it. - Thanks, Auntie!
Go easy, you'll squash him.
When I met you it was just a shell... nearly three months ago.
Three months on Thursday... I think.
I've eaten hundreds of frittatas.
Don't be offended, but I've got to confess...
My mother often used to make it,
but I don't really like frittata with liver.
Why did you eat it, then?
Because it was you who cooked it.
Do you mind?
No. I just wish I'd realized.
And didn't you notice I came on Sundays.
No-one was working here. I live in Primavalle.
But I drove 12 kilometers...
A cigarette?
You see... I felt at home when I came.
Until my mother died two years ago, I used to go home each summer.
You see, Caterina... I haven't been feeling so lonely.
I'd see you twice a day. And your friends are nice too.
In about a month we'll be finished here.
Where will you be working? Won't you come to us again?
Oh, yes, in the evenings. But I was thinking...
I mean... wouldn't it be better if I didn't have to come?
What do you mean, "didn't have to..."?
Well... if you agree... of course you'll need to think about it...
I've never talked like this before.
How do you ask a girl if...
Yes, if she wants to get married.
I haven't got a smart house like this, with three bathrooms.
I told you, I live in Primavalle.
But we could get a TV... in installments.
Or we can always go the cinema.
There's no hurry. I've been doing all the talking.
Give me your answer in your own time.
I'm sorry, Emilio, it's impossible.
I'll never forget. Thank you.
But why? Tell me why.
I knew you wanted to tell me something.
It kept me awake at night.
I hoped... but I was afraid...
Why? Nothing you say will make any difference.
I know what life's like.
No, let me go.
Is there someone else?
No.
Not the way you mean.
But there have been lots.
We aren't school friends.
If you must know, we worked together in the same houses, same towns.
We were on the game.
Do you understand? Happy now?
You forced me to say it.
Just as well. What was I thinking of?
Just as well.
I was right, you see. There are things you can't understand.
It's not always "100 heads, 100 hats".
You're not saying anything? Who'd marry a girl like me?
You think you could introduce me to your friends?
Think of it!
Well, don't you think it's funny? I do.
You asked for my hand... as though you were talking to my mother.
And don't come to the restaurant again.
- Who do you think I look like? - A tart.
Spiteful bitch.
You're always so insulting.
Don't you think I look like Anita Ekberg?
Spitting image! Go and change now, they'll be coming soon.
- You're back early. - I've been out too long.
What are you doing? Why are you doing that now?
Out of the way, you don't know how.
We've got to start working properly.
- This isn't proper work? - Yes, ruining our hands in the kitchen.
What about the million we owe that guy?
You like making soup? I'm sick of it, if that's all right with you.
I want to go back home.
- Did we lose? - It didn't even cross the line.
- Weren't you watching? - So many smart people here.
It's a real aristocratic gathering. See that man over there?
- Which one? - Him. He's the Prince of San Marino.
- Which one?! - The one selling ice cream.
You're crazy. Go on, choose a dog.
- Like before? - With the luck we've had?
Can I have a light?
We'll go for Abukir. Let's put on 10,000 lira together.
Just don't run away with the money.
Do I look the type who would?
No, but once Lolita had 100,000 lira stolen from her.
You take it then, open your own account.
Can't you take a joke?
- Let's bet together, then. - Do you think I don't trust you?
Go!
If anyone bothers you, say you're with Piero Salvagni.
Look who it is! What are you doing here?
I want to win a few million so I can buy you a present.
- Big spender! - Are you alone?
You think I go out alone at night? I'm with Ulisse.
So, you're well settled.
Ulisse is more of a gentleman than you.
Call me, you'll see what a gentleman I can be.
Will you call me?
Not bad, eh? It's busy here.
That's a good sign.
Sure it's the right place?
Of course. "Adua's". Look. Look!
Yes, now I see.
Ercoli's always right. When I'm in Rome he sends me somewhere good.
- Are you alone? - Very alone.
- Inside or outside? - It's better over there. No?
Someone wants to know how you do the scampi.
I said I'd let her know when you're in a better mood.
I'm not in a bad mood. Or if I am, it's your fault.
Yes, it's always our fault.
- Whose fault is it, then? - There are two men...
Listen. Ercoli sent them, they want to go upstairs.
It was too good to be true.
Now we've got to go upstairs for the first pig that turns up.
Adua isn't even here tonight.
She's playing sweethearts.
If they want to eat we're here to serve them.
For the other thing, tell them to come back when we're all here.
- Two nice boys, at least. - You didn't choose them before.
Don't be difficult about it.
What are you doing?
If it's so important, she can go.
Go on, what are you waiting for? Get upstairs.
She took him upstairs.
One of us had to.
Shut up!
What's he done?
Mind your own business.
When the frittata's ready, can I have one without liver?
My fruit, please?
Who are you?
Who are you, little boy?
- I'm Carletto. - He's Marilina's son.
- Shall I fetch someone? - Don't bother.
Indian Vendetta. It's a Western.
- I like Westerns. - They're for children.
Valley of the Beavers. That could be interesting. Like it?
Yes. Why not?
It's the landlord. I'll see you at lunchtime.
- But we haven't chosen a film. - Yes, the Valley of the Whatsits.
Good day, Doctor. I'll get Adua immediately.
Wait here for me.
Good day, Doctor.
- Will you sit down here? - No. Let's have a look upstairs.
- But it's a mess. - Doesn't matter.
Don't you knock?
Had a good look?
I'm sending Antonietta tomorrow. Remember her?
She was at Virginia's. She can do the cooking.
Have you seen yourselves in the mirror?
The other night I sent a client. He had good things to say about you lot...
as waitresses.
We haven't really got going. It's still early days.
This needs tidying up.
The restaurant's going fine.
Get rid of the kids, the strangers and sacks of potatoes in the bedrooms.
Get to work.
I...
...can't.
I'm getting married.
Congratulations!
This doesn't make any difference.
I don't give a damn about your private lives.
You don't think she'd stay here and work for you if she's married!
We had an agreement.
I didn't invest all my money to open a rehabilitation centre.
I've already waited a month.
Get married, become nuns, do what you like
but you've got to stay here and pay what we agreed. A million a month!
Goodbye!
We pay the rent!
- We'll make the rest when it suits us. - If it suits us!
You have 24 hours to decide.
If not, you're out of here tomorrow!
- We're not moving. It's our house! - It's all ours!
It's all mine. The house and everything in it.
You'll clear out of here. And I mean what I say.
I'll report you, you understand?
He can't do anything. The license is in my name!
I got it and I can take it away.
A restaurant can't be run by women like you.
You have police records. Understand what that means?
Sort it out.
I'll be back tomorrow.
Stormy weather, eh? Are you angry with someone?
With everybody! It's this crap world!
Don't say that. You should pray, daughter.
Praying makes you a better person.
Of course! So when I've become a good person,
someone who hasn't been praying comes along and rips me off.
You lot preach... talk Latin... say Mass...
- But what do you know about life? - Of course, life is a sacrifice...
Do you know what the four of us were? What we used to do?
It doesn't matter what you were. What matters is what you are and will be...
I'll tell you what we will be... exactly what we were!
Why? Because that's how it is.
Even if we prayed on our knees for ten years.
And what do you do? What can you do?
Come on, show me!
You can only say, "God's will be done".
How dare you speak like that in front of this child? Hold your tongue!
I'm sorry, Father Michele. I needed to get it out.
I hope you feel better... Goodbye. I'll pray for you.
Thank you.
Do you know what, Carletto?
Tomorrow, you'll go away with Carmela.
Back to your nanny.
Are you happy?
I want to stay here.
We have the right to stay here.
I want to work here till I get married. And maybe even afterwards.
Even if I never make love again, I'd rather die than do it for that pig!
Shut up! You'll wake up the child!
Think it's fair I can't keep the child so that bastard can earn money?
I'm going to smash his head in tomorrow!
- Who could it be at this time? - Probably some drunk.
Who's there? Wait, I'll be right down!
Who is it?
- Is it Thursday today? - So?
A client owed me money, I'd forgotten all about it.
He's brought me the money so I can go straight to the bank tomorrow.
Do you work even at night?
Of course! You're work too!
It's a dog's life, I tell you! Oh, my cigarettes... Wait here, OK?
He said I was old... but it's him that's queer.
I was afraid you'd be out... Why did you come down?
Sorry, my mother is here... She's sleeping.
I tried to ring you all day.
I've been very busy. What's wrong? What's happened?
Got a light?
You didn't come all this way for a light, did you?
I'm not in a joking mood.
- They're kicking us out! - From where?
The restaurant.
Did Milly poison someone with her mushrooms?
This morning we had a row with the landlord.
He says we should keep our agreement. But the restaurant is doing fine now.
It's thanks to us.
It's a job that lasts, that you can do also later.
Later when?
Later... when we're not young any more.
And then there's Marilina's child, Milly's getting married...
What can we do, Piero?
You are asking me, Adua, my love? What do I know?
How can I help you? I don't even know him.
Do you love me?
Of course I do. What's that got to do with it?
Wouldn't you prefer it if I just had the restaurant?
Wouldn't it be better? So why should we start again like before?
Did you see the one that just went past? I don't want to end up like that.
Why? But you haven't been?
Go on.
No, I'm saying... I'm not talking about you.
But... Marilina... I thought that... No?
I don't know. I must have made a mistake. I'm sorry.
What did I say, Adua? Know what we'll do?
We'll sort things out tomorrow.
I'll go and talk to him, eh? I'll talk to him myself.
And what are you going to tell him?
That you agree with him? That things are fine like that?
Because you all agree, eh? You, him and all the others!
And what are we? We're branded like cattle!
Piero! Piero, aren't you coming back in?
Calm down, he's coming. And you can keep your Piero. He's all yours!
It's not what you think. She came with my mother. She's an orphan.
Come up and see for yourself. Adua... Stop!
What's going on?
To hell with you! That's all I need.
The whole world is against me.
Look, I've even hurt myself.
What do you all want from me?
I'm almost 35. I have the right to...
He's here! Open the door!
What are you doing? What are we going to say?
You've got to talk to him.
Open up, Adua! Come down!
I'll tell him you're coming down. Hurry up!
Adua's coming down.
Thank you, there's no hurry. This is fine.
Dr. Ercoli, is this OK with you? I have my working clothes on.
We're ready. From this moment on, the bedrooms are open to the public.
Come on, gentlemen. Don't be afraid of the police!
We have an excellent protector! Isn't that right, Dr. Ercoli?
Happy now? This is the way we should work, isn't it?
Isn't this what you wanted?
You, sir, do you want to come up?
If you don't like me, you can choose one of my colleagues.
Come on, you don't have to marry them!
Girls, get down to work. You have to make Dr. Ercoli rich.
And remember, we're not waitresses.
We're whores. It's all we're allowed to do here.
- Nothing else. - She's mad!
What are you doing? Are you leaving already?
Don't you want to check your profits?
Do you want to smoke?
Thank you.
Hey, gorgeous. Your free ticket home.
You're still a bachelor. If you want to get married...
We wanted to send him to prison, the professional with a clean record,
and instead...
Give me a paper, please.
- Here you are. - No, Il Tempo.
Here's Il Tempo. Hot off the press.
The brothel was disguised as a restaurant...
They even have our pictures.
It's strange. I've never been up so early before.
It's beautiful.
We did a very good job with it, eh?
Hello, Emilio, it's Caterina...
But... Emilio!
Sorry.
Thank you.
Wasn't he there?
He's not there. He's gone away.
Maybe he really has gone away. Don't you think?
Of course. He told me himself on the phone.
I recognized his voice!
Why? You'd already told him everything.
Yes, but he was the only one to know then.
Now we're in all the papers. I can understand him.
Ah, yes... You defend even him now!
I'm sorry. It's all my fault.
It's nothing to do with you. If you hadn't done it, I would have.
And maybe I'd have even broken Ercoli's neck.
Pity, Ercoli's lost a glass.
And a plate.
Yes, come on! Come on!
One evening we had 80 people eating.
It's hard work but it's very satisfying.
Do you understand?
- I understand. - Tell her about Modugno!
One day, Modugno came in! He told me I was good.
He wanted to teach me how to cook pasta with sardines!
I'm not like one of them.
What do you think I'm doing here?
Have you been drinking tonight?
I'm only here to make money. I already have some.
I've seen a place which is just perfect. The garden's small.
But the kitchen is so big!
Are you deaf?
Have you found a cook?
Take Adriana. She can cook you up some dishes.
Shut up!
You old drunkard!
No, I won't end up like you!
I can't!
THE END