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ALEX
Love,
Love changes everything
Hands and faces,
Earth and sky.
Love,
Love changes everything
How you live and
How you die.
Love can make the summer fly,
Or a night seem like a lifetime.
Yes, love,
Love changes everything
Now I tremble at your name
Nothing in the world will ever
Be the same.
Love,
Love changes everything
Days are longer,
Words mean more.
Love,
Love changes everything
Pain is deeper than before.
Love will turn your world around
And that world will last forever.
Yes, love,
Love changes everything,
Brings you glory,
Brings you shame.
Nothing in the world will ever
Be the same.
Why did I go back to see her...?
WOMAN (GIULIETTA)
Alex, it's all in the past...
ALEX
Off into the world we go
Planning futures
Shaping years.
Love bursts in, and suddenly
All our wisdom disappears.
Love makes fools of everyone
All the rules we make are broken
Yes, love,
Love changes everyone
Live or perish
In its flame.
Love will never, never let you
Be the same.
A VOICE (down in the garden)
The master builder is dead!
OTHER VOICES
His head is all smashed in.... He fell right into the quarry.
HILDE (ROSE) (turns to RAGNAR and says quietly)
I can't see him up there now.
RAGNAR
This is terrible. So in fact he couldn't do it.
HILDE (ROSE) (with a kind of quiet, bewildered triumph)
But he got right to the top.
My...my...master builder!
ROSE
The toast of the town?
The hit of the year?
The birth of a star?
The end of a career!
MARCEL
Darling, these things happen...
ROSE
You turn round and tell us
We're closed for two weeks!
MARCEL
Rose, I thought of everything...
ROSE
You thought of nothing!
MARCEL
...There are posters in the streets
And banners in the squares.
Scream away, feel free,
But at Ibsen, not at me...
ROSE (interrupting)
Why did I agree
To accept this bloody tour?
The only thing in store
Is two weeks of nothing!
ACTORS (in the background, to one another)
Win some, lose some...
What the hell...
ROSE
Working till I drop
For an audience of four:
Three nuns and your mother...
MARCEL
It's no good complaining...
ROSE
And she only bothered
Because it was raining!
MARCEL
Love...
ROSE
Don't call me 'Love'!
MARCEL
This isn't personal.
ACTORS (departing, to one another)
I don't care... The theatre's my life...
MARCEL
We will start the tour again
In Lyon in two weeks!
Rose, the people there
Are all Ibsen mad, I swear!
Come on, show me a smile!
ROSE (turning away)
God, I'm not in the mood...
MARCEL
What's a fortnight or so?
ROSE
With no money or food...
MARCEL
Don't be glum...
ACTORS
Don't let's be downhearted!
ROSE
Don't waste your breath.
ACTORS
We'll get by...
MARCEL
Now Rose, you must meet this young man!
He's a dedicated fan --
Been in every evening!
ROSE
Marcel, don't run away --
I can see your little plan.
ALEX (approaching nervously)
It's an honor, mam'selle,
I could watch you for hours...
You can't have forgotten,
I threw you the flowers...
Mam'selle, seeing you on stage
Has changed my life!
ACTORS (exiting, to one another and to ROSE)
Join us in the café
In the square!
ROSE
See you...
The café...
The square...
ALEX (to ROSE, tentatively)
Would you let me walk you there...?
CROONER
'Parlez-vous
français?
Je suis sad.
Parlez-vous
français?
I feel bad.
How do you say
'Ce soir vous êtes si
belle?'
I only know
A word or so,
Like 'Cat' and
'School' --
Je suis fool.
ACTOR 1 (to COMPANIONS)
Death to him
Who dares mention Ibsen!
Parlez-vous
français?
ALEX (to ROSE)
One day Montpellier's
Going to scream...
Please say 'oui'.
ACTOR 2
Death to all directors!
ALEX(continuing)
...To get you back!
Shall I order?
Parlez-vous
An espresso?
français?
Or cappuccino?
Speak to me.
ROSE (flatly)
Armagnac.
How do you say:
ACTOR 3
Why we bothered heaven knows.
'Vous êtes jolie,
ACTOR 4
Marcel's a dreamer.
ACTOR 1
Marcel deserves
The firing squad.
Mam'sell'?
ALEX (to WAITER)
Armagnac.
And a glass of house white for me.
ACTOR 2 (looking across at ROSE)
Who's she with?
Chérie,
ACTOR 5
Two weeks
Before we meet again.
ROSE (unsmiling)
Two weeks
Before we eat again.
Where do I
commencer,
If you won't parler
WAITER (returning with the ACTORS' bill)
Is that all?
français with me?
ACTORS 1, 2, & 3 (to one another)
The same again?
ACTOR 4 (to WAITER)
The same again.
ACTORS 1, 2, 3, & 4
Here's the man
Of the hour!
Parlez-vous
français?
ROSE (to ALEX)
Please promise me
You'll answer...
Say you do.
MARCEL (to the ACTORS)
Am I allowed
To join you?
ACTORS (To MARCEL)
Who's with Rose?
ROSE (continuing)
...Truthfully.
ALEX
What's the question?
ROSE
You must promise first.
Parlez-vous
français?
ALEX
I promise, I promise.
MARCEL (replying to the ACTORS)
Rose's young fan!
Tell me true.
ROSE
How old are you?
How do you say:
ALEX
In three years
I'll be twenty.
'Je suis unhappy
ACTOR 1 (to ROSE)
Is this your
Younger brother, Rose?
Fella'?
ROSE (ignoring the ACTOR, to ALEX)
Is that all?
ACTOR 1 (hisses loudly back to the OTHERS)
Seventeen!
WAITER (returning to ROSE and ALEX with their drinks)
Is that all?
ROSE
Another armagnac.
Chérie,
ACTORS (shouting across to ROSE)
You're in with
Adieu to drinks
A chance there!
and danser,
If you won't parler
français
ALEX
I have this theory:
With me.
Unless you say
'oui'...
If you think
What those images mean,
Adieu to drinks
and danser,
Then clearly
If you won't parler
Most of Ibsen's subtext
Is obscene...
français
With me.'
ROSE (dryly)
Seventeen...
ALEX
It makes one very aware...such frightfully modern ideas...
MARCEL (to ROSE)
Darling, it's only two weeks...
ANNOUNCER
Johnny Lejeune with 'Parlez-vous français?' Encore, Johnny!
CROONER
'Parlez-vous français?
Je suis sad...'
ROSE (calling across to the BARTENDER)
Oh, turn that thing off!
I don't need some crooner crooning.
Or a stage-door Johnny swooning.
Look, if I'm not very nice to you,
It's because I have things to worry me.
But thanks for the flowers every night...
I'm resting again.
That's what actresses say
When they're not in a play.
You're a long way from England.
ALEX
Yes.
ROSE
And what brings you to Montpellier?
ALEX
I'm traveling through France
Until my call-up.
ROSE
You mean the army?
ALEX
May I ask a stupid question?
How will you survive for two weeks?
ROSE
I'll get along somehow.
ALEX
What, with no money?
May I make a bold suggestion?
ROSE
And what kind of 'bold suggestion'?
ALEX
Come away with me, Rose...
ROSE
With you? Where?
ALEX
I have a villa --
Don't be suspicious --
You won't believe it,
The view of the Pyrenees!
I leave this evening --
Come with me...
ROSE (after a pause)
Are you sure you want me to accept?
Very well, then,
I accept.
Here. Have some armagnac.
Not another night
In this hateful city!
ALEX
You'll need to pack --
We'll meet at the station.
ROSE
I'll pick up my script and my dress.
By the way...
ALEX
Yes?
ROSE
...What's your name?
No -- let me guess...
Rupert?
ALEX
No. It's Alex.
ROSE
Alex.
Hello.
I'm Rose.
ALEX
I know.
ALEX (pacing, finally exploding)
That girl can really act!
I could have sworn that she'd be here!
She's got a great career --
She should play Salomé!
Maybe I was mad,
But she really seemed sincere...
ROSE
Please say you're not angry,
I just couldn't bear it!
Please say you forgive me --
I want you to swear it!
ALEX
Of course I'm not angry --
I knew that you'd make it.
There's plenty of time...
Here, that's heavy -- I'll take it.
ROSE
I feel seventeen again!
ALEX
So do I...
ALEX
Seeing is believing,
And in my arms I see her:
She's here,
Really here,
Really mine now --
She seems at home here...
Seeing is believing.
I dreamt that it would be her:
At last
Life is full,
Life is fine now...
Whatever happens,
One thing is certain:
Each time I see
A train go by,
I'll think of us,
The night, the sky
Forever...
ROSE
He's young,
Very young,
But appealing --
I feel I know him...
Seeing is believing,
And I like what I see here.
I like
Where I am,
What I'm feeling...
What are we doing?
Can you believe it?
A starving actress and
A star-struck boy --
Oh well, I might
As well enjoy
The moment...
ALEX
Can you believe it?
BOTH
Seeing is believing!
I never thought I'd be here!
Is this really me?
Am I dreaming?
No way of knowing
Where this is leading...
It's fun forgetting
Who we are...
Who cares? When now
The world is far
Behind us...
Seeing is believing!
My life is just beginning!
We touched,
And my head
Won't stop spinning,
From winning
Your love!
ALEX
Wish my arms were longer...
Or the gap was wider...
One more go and
That should do it...
One more try and there --
That does it!
ROSE
You will rue the day
That you got me in this mess!
I've torn my one good dress!
You're really a charmer!
ALEX
Rose, I know this seems
Like a scene from "Modern Times"...
The house is my uncle's --
All right, I was lying --
He's working in Paris,
He won't come here prying...
Oh Rose,
Rose, can't you see?
I would have said anything
To get you here with me...
Shall I make some coffee...?
ROSE
One cup of fresh coffee
Buys two kisses --
Shall we have dinner?
BOTH
Whatever happens,
We have this moment.
Who needs tomorrow,
When we have today?
Tonight we'll mean
The things we say
Forever...
Seeing is believing!
My life is just beginning!
We touched,
And my head
Won't stop spinning
From winning
Your love!
GEORGE
Damn the boy!
Damn the boy's
Damn-fool schoolboy antics!
GIULIETTA
Calm down now, George...
GEORGE (interrupting, reads)
"Nephew Alex break in, stop.
Stealing household supplies, stop.
Living in sin, stop.
Please advise, stop."
My gardener, Jérôme!
GIULIETTA (smiles)
How very nice!
How sweet!
GEORGE
How handy!
My bed!
My brandy!
GIULIETTA
He sounds like you --
I think you ought to introduce us!
GEORGE
Giulietta.
You'd better cancel supper at "Chez Max" --
This week was fun.
It shouldn't end like this...
GIULIETTA
This interlude was heaven...
GEORGE
How sad to think that it must end
When it had just begun...
GIULIETTA
George, you've got a painter's eye:
Everything is magnified!
I know you're all he's got,
But I don't see why you should go.
GEORGE
No, I must go.
Our little fling has done us good.
I have my paint.
You have your clay:
We both have work...
GIULIETTA
I know, I know.
Don't look so sad, George!
What times we've had, George!
GEORGE
There'll be more...
GIULIETTA
Ah yes.
That's true.
George...
There'll never be another you...
But, as you say, you are his guardian,
And sacrifices must be made.
We must part,
I'm afraid...
So put "Giulietta" thoughts behind you,
Forget about your broken heart!
Back to Venice...
Tend my art...
GEORGE (moving across to her)
A love affair is not a lifetime.
It's calendars and clocks, my friend.
All good things
Have to end.
A memory of a happy moment --
That's what this week will one day be.
Life goes on,
Love goes free.
GIULIETTA (alone)
Life goes on...
Love goes free...
ROSE
This is what I ought to feel on stage...
Soaring up like snow-capped mountains...
I feel your beauty and your rage...
I could be those tumbling forests,
I could play those jagged hillsides...
Star of mountain,
Star of valley...
ALEX
Would Madam care for breakfast?
Will croissants and fresh coffee do?
Wonderful view!
Whenever we see those mountains,
We will think of me and you...
George insists on magnificent views.
ROSE
I think I should like your uncle...
ROSE
Alex, she's beautiful. Who is she?
ALEX
My aunt Delia. She was an actress too.
ROSE
Delia! Was she famous?
ALEX
Yes. But she died very young. That's why my uncle doesn't
come down here very often. Too many memories.
ROSE
Haven't I seen that somewhere before?
ALEX
Not the one you're thinking of. That's in the Louvre.
George did that one. Some people call it fraud, but he prefers to
think of it as a tribute.
ALEX (brandishing a rapier)
En garde!
ROSE (parrying with a tennis racket)
Fifteen love!
BOTH
Promise me today will never ever end!
ROSE (pulling out various tins)
Caviar! Anchovies! Peaches in brandy! We can have a banquet tonight!
ALEX
When he does get down here, George doesn't believe in having to rough it.
BOTH
I could get to like it here!
Let's not ever think of leaving!
ALEX
Look at this. Pierrot. Carmen.
For the ballroom? Or the bedroom?
ROSE
Mérimée, "L'Occasion". I know this -- it's a wonderful play!
ALEX
Really?
ROSE
Let's do it. You can be the priest, I'll be Doña Maria Colemenares.
ALEX
But I don't know anything about the theatre.
ROSE
I'll teach you. We'll do it. Tonight.
ALEX
"What are you doing? Pull yourself together..."
ROSE
This one is gorgeous!
ALEX (looking up)
It was her favorite dress...
ROSE
He must have loved her so much.
ALEX
Rose, leave things as they are...
ROSE
I can just see her...
I feel I know her...
FATHER EUGENIO (ALEX)
What does this letter contain? Give it to me.
DOÑA MARIA (ROSE)
But promise me not to read it while you are here. Read it
this evening -- wait till this evening. Promise me. And
tomorrow...no, never speak to me about it. If you give it
back I shall punish myself for my folly...but for God's sake
don't scold me.
FATHER EUGENIO (ALEX)
Hand it over.
DOÑA MARIA (ROSE)
Have pity, I implore you. I have resisted as long as I could,
but you mustn't open it here. Oh, God, what are you doing?
Father Eugenio, I implore you. For pity's sake, give it back.
Father, you are killing me.
FATHER EUGENIO (ALEX)
What are you doing? Pull yourself together.
GEORGE
You must forgive this rude intrusion,
But I really felt I had to say "Well done"!
ALEX
Oh, uncle George,
Come in, come in...
ROSE
I've heard a million things about you...
GEORGE
And you are...?
ROSE
I am Rose Vibert.
GEORGE
I hate to spoil your fun,
But I was dying for a gin --
But don't let me disturb you.
ROSE
Oh, it's nice to meet you...
GEORGE (warming to the situation)
Surely Mérimée's "L'Occasion"?
ALEX
Lemon? Ice?
ROSE
The perfect play.
GEORGE
Yet overstated...
ROSE
Yes, that's true.
GEORGE
...And somehow dated now --
A living fossil!
ROSE
How concise!
GEORGE
And Alex, you show promise.
ROSE
Well, he is my pupil!
GEORGE
Ah, so this is your profession?
ALEX
Rising star!
GEORGE
I'm sure, I'm sure.
ROSE
I'm playing Hilde...
ALEX
...In two weeks.
GEORGE
"The Master Builder"?
ROSE
Yes.
GEORGE
What a courageous girl you are.
ROSE
I hate to tear myself away,
But I must go and change --
Please promise me you'll stay.
GEORGE
I wouldn't dream of going far!
I'd like to be the first
To say "She's perfect!" --
A face like that
I haven't seen in years!
ALEX
You must forgive us
For breaking in here.
I'll make it up, George,
Have no fear --
But please don't throw
Us out of here,
I beg you...
Seeing is believing --
I saw her and I loved her...
You must understand what I'm saying --
She's not just someone...
GEORGE
A love affair is not a crisis.
Enjoy it like a fine champagne --
Taste, but never let it
Cloud the brain.
A memory of a happy moment --
That's what this time will one day be.
Life goes on,
Love goes free...
ALEX
Some girls are like that,
They'll love you and leave you,
But Rose --
There's only one Rose...
I'm telling you,
This is not some schoolboy game --
My life will never be the same.
GEORGE
I look at you and
ALEX
I knew it from the moment
I remember
That I saw her face...
How many times I've
There could
Felt this way --
Never be
Ah, the tricks
Any other
Love can play...
Love for me...
GEORGE
Alex, quick!
Some brandy!
ROSE
You go...
ALEX
I'll go...
ROSE
Quickly...
ALEX (hurrying out)
I'm going...
GEORGE
Do forgive me...
So unlike me...
You looked just like her...
My wife...
Delia...
I thought for a moment...
The dress was hers,
But you look just as lovely --
It should be worn...
I've caused such drama here...
ROSE
You mustn't think that...
GEORGE
It wasn't meant, my dear...
I'd better leave you two alone...
ROSE
You're in no state to travel --
No,
You won't go anywhere.
You're staying in that chair.
Why spend the evening on your own?
ALEX
Why, why must he spy on us?
It was perfect till he came!
Why, why must he ruin it?
GEORGE
...Of course, painting always was my first love.
ROSE
Oh, to be so gifted.
GEORGE
When I'm dead they'll fetch a fortune.
ALEX
We shall see.
ROSE
I'd buy one now.
ALEX (to GEORGE)
You'd better tell her...
ROSE
Tell me what?
ALEX
...Before you sell her one,
That they're just copies...
GEORGE
But by me!
ROSE (changing the subject, to GEORGE)
I'd love to hear your poems!
GEORGE
I shall write one for you...
ALEX
Byron isn't here to sue you.
ROSE
Alex, please --
Don't interrupt.
GEORGE
At least I do things.
ROSE
Yes, that's true.
GEORGE
...I see a few things through...
We often have disputes like these.
Did Alex ever tell you...
ALEX
We'll be here till breakfast...
GEORGE (ignoring him, continues)
...Why his final year
At school was rather short?
ROSE
No, not a word.
ALEX (horrified realization)
No, George, you couldn't...
ROSE
Please go on!
ALEX
No, George, you wouldn't dare...
GEORGE
I think it might amuse her...
I've had a splendid time,
A truly splendid time --
But I can see that I'm de trop...
I have a little tryst
Too tempting to resist,
And now I really ought to go...
I wish you both a charming fortnight,
Enjoy your little one-to-one --
Have your fling,
Have your fun...
A memory of a happy moment --
That's what these days will one day be...
Life goes on,
Love goes free...
ALEX
I think I know where he's gone --
He's off to take his Italian lessons!
ROSE
How could you have let me wear this dress?
He must think I have no feelings!
You should have said what he was like...
I must seem a heartless woman!
I must seem a soulless creature!
Anyway, let's not have a scene...
ROSE (offstage)
What was that?
ALEX (offstage)
What?
ROSE
There.
Listen.
It's her ghost.
I'm frightened.
ALEX (himself a little scared)
Don't be silly. I'll go and have a look.
ROSE (from inside)
Well?
ALEX (covering his misgivings)
There's nothing there. I suppose it must have been a rat.
ROSE
I can't sleep in a house full of rats!
ALEX (following)
Well, I don't want you to sleep just yet...
ROSE
Alex. Not now.
ALEX
Rose, where are you?
Rose, where are you?
ROSE
I've been out walking.
And what a day --
So crisp and clear!
And you're not spending it in here!
Let's breathe some mountain air!
ALEX
I thought you'd left me...
ROSE (continuing on her own line of thought)
What do you say?
ALEX
I had a dream you'd left me...
ROSE
Good idea?
ALEX (coming to)
Good idea!
ROSE
"Pas de tendresse
Et pas de joie,
Loin d'ici,
Loin de toi.
Rien de plus triste
Que mes soupirs,
Lorsque vient le jour
Où il me faut partir.
Chanson d'enfance,
Tu vis toujours dans mon cœur.
Toi, la plus douce!
Toi, la plus tendre!"
ALEX
What could be sweeter?
BOTH
Nothing is sweeter...
ROSE
Marcel wants me in Lyon...
He says that I'm needed today...
ALEX
Well, it must be important...
ROSE
I won't go.
I don't want to.
I'll ignore it.
How can I desert you?
It's all so unfair,
So unfeeling!
ALEX
How can you say that?
Don't be a fool, Rose!
You can't put me before your whole career!
You can't let feelings interfere --
You must go!
ROSE
I'll pick up my script and my dress.
ALEX
"A memory of a happy moment --
That's what this week will one day be..."
George...you're wrong...
Marcel -- how could he have known where she was?
Unless she told him...or sent this herself.... And there was I,
completely taken in, when she was going all along...
No, she couldn't...
Oh God, she wouldn't...
RIFLE-RANGE BARKER
Who's feeling lucky?
Twenty out of twenty
And a prize could be yours!
FREAK-SHOW BARKER
See "Marie the Monkey"
With the poisonous claws!
RIFLE-RANGE BARKER
There's a prize
To be won!
FREAK-SHOW BARKER
Take a risk,
Take a ride!
RIFLE-RANGE BARKER
Right this way,
Have a go!
FREAK-SHOW BARKER
Try your luck
And step inside!
CHORUS
If you reach
For the moon,
If you aim
For the sky,
Then the moon
And the sky
Can be yours --
Come on and try!
Everybody loves a hero!
Let's hear it for the man with the gun!
Everybody loves a hero...
BARKER
And you, sir,
Are now the proud owner
Of this magnificent donkey!
CHORUS
Everybody loves a hero!
Let's hear it for the man with the gun!
Everybody loves a hero...
FRIEND 1 (to ALEX)
Two more days...
FRIEND 2
Just two more days!
FRIEND 1
...And you'll be back
To civvy street again!
FRIEND 3
And decent food.
FRIEND 2
And your life is yours at last!
FRIEND 3
You lucky devil!
GIRLS
Your girlfriend's gonna love that donkey!
ALL
You'll be her hero!
ALEX (detaching himself from the limpet GIRL)
Two long years...
I had a dream I'd see her name in lights:
Rose Vibert, the shining star!
I've given up trying to find her...
Perhaps she's resting...
FRIEND 3
So who's the lucky girl tonight, then?
ALEX (moving off as the scene dissolves)
I've told you:
It's my uncle.
FRIENDS (fading into the background)
Uncle?
Not likely...
Give her a kiss from us...
ELIZABETH
How you've grown!
ALEX
It's been two years.
ELIZABETH
You should have phoned --
Your uncle isn't here.
ALEX
I might have guessed!
ELIZABETH
And such a splendid uniform!
ALEX (looking around the flat)
The same old paintings.
ELIZABETH
Madame will be so thrilled to meet you --
I'll go and tell her.
ALEX
"Giulietta Trapani"...
ELIZABETH (turning back)
Life has changed!
Since those two met
He lives life to the full!
ALEX
Well, good for him!
ELIZABETH
She has made him young again!
ALEX
Where is he now, then?
ELIZABETH
He's doing up the country villa --
They plan to live there.
Now, tell me, do you still like omelettes?
Won't be a moment!
ALEX
And so he got his wicked way with that Italian girl --
He hasn't lost his touch...
ROSE
Well, hello...
ALEX
I should have known
Where you were hiding --
You like the good life,
George likes trinkets!
God, what a fool
I was to love you!
What was all my searching for?
It's never hard to find a ***!
ROSE
Well, if it makes you happy, think it...
ALEX
You scheming ***...
ROSE
The truth is we're a perfect pair.
ALEX
Because he's rich...
ROSE
Shout and scream --
I don't care...
ALEX
You could have let me know...!
ROSE
Your uncle's shown me new horizons...
ALEX
Well, didn't I?
ROSE
And as a lover he is perfect too.
ALEX
Another lie!
ROSE
He takes his time.
Unlike you.
ALEX
I wasn't good enough?
ROSE
Why can't you listen
And come to your senses?
It's George...
I really love George...
He's made me a
Better, fuller, stronger person,
I have never been as happy!
ALEX
Or, indeed, as wealthy.
ROSE
Look, I don't need your uncle's money!
And I could have a thousand lovers!
Yet I've been faithful and I'm happy --
More faithful than he'll ever be:
It's not as if he's married me...
ALEX (calming)
I'd better go...
I'm sorry...
It was a shock...
ROSE
Try and understand,
And it won't hurt you so much.
ALEX
At least admit you loved me once...
ROSE
Of course I did.
I may even love you now...
George gives me so much...
But he gets so little from me...
But with you I made an impression
That will last you a lifetime...
ALEX (moving close to her)
So change my life for me again...
ALEX
Here we go again!
Heaven knows when she'll be back --
That girl has got a knack
Of keeping you guessing!
ELIZABETH (entering, flustered)
Madame will soon be here,
But she says you are to leave:
Your uncle is coming,
You'd better get going...
ALEX
So why all the panic?
Why shouldn't I be here?
ELIZABETH
She's scared that his heart
Couldn't stand all this drama...
ALEX
Well, it's hardly a shock
If my uncle sees me here...
That girl is unbelievable!
Was last night the sort of thing
She could just forget?
It would be hard to find
A more capricious mind...
ROSE
What are you doing here?
ALEX
All right, where have you been?
ROSE
Will you please disappear?
ALEX
What the hell do you mean?
ROSE (turns away)
Leave me, leave me!
I don't want George exposed
To some unpleasant scene.
ALEX (getting out his gun)
If I can't have you, no one will.
Killing you would be a pleasure.
ROSE
So all you're fit for is to kill?
Go on and pull the trigger,
See if I care!
Come on, soldier!
Be a hero!
ALEX
You never loved me?
ROSE
Does it matter?
You never meant it?
Who remembers?
And now you hate me...
Go away, you little
Schoolboy...
GEORGE
My only genuine Matisse!
Thank God...
No damage done...
Would someone kindly tell me
What on earth has happened?
ELIZABETH
He lost his head,
The gun went off,
She's bleeding badly,
Use your scarf --
Here, let me help...
GEORGE
You'd better phone the doctor.
ALEX
I should never have come back here...
GEORGE
Oh, don't talk such nonsense!
ALEX
I'll bow out now --
It's the decent thing to do.
GEORGE
Don't be absurd.
ALEX
I'm a disaster...
GEORGE
Oh, come, come!
ALEX
...It wouldn't last a week --
She'd be far better off with you.
GEORGE
You two have your lives before you.
ALEX
It would end in ***...
GEORGE
I'm too old for her --
It's high time I withdrew.
ALEX
Your place is here.
GEORGE
The jowls are dropping...
ALEX
It's the light.
GEORGE
...The paunch needs propping up --
She'd be far better off with you.
BOTH
Your words are generous and selfless,
But alas untrue --
She'd be far better off with you.
ALEX
You are steeped in wit and wisdom.
GEORGE
Well, I've learnt the odd thing...
ALEX
You could teach George Bernard Shaw
A thing or two!
GEORGE
I had a go...
ALEX
You've dined with Garbo...
GEORGE
Only twice.
ALEX
...Translated "La Bohème" --
She'd be far better off with you.
GEORGE
You're athletic.
ALEX
You're distinguished.
GEORGE
You don't cheat at croquet.
ALEX
You're more seasoned.
GEORGE
You can skate.
ALEX
You're in "Who's Who".
GEORGE
Just half an inch.
ALEX
We're talking drivel.
GEORGE
So we are.
BOTH
Can't we be civilized?
She'd be far better off with you.
Your words are generous and selfless,
But alas untrue.
It's only Rose that matters!
Just take a look: there's no comparison
Between us two --
She'd be far better off with you!
GEORGE
You're too young
And too confused
To understand what's best,
And what's best is obvious:
The two of you belong together --
There'll be less damage!
ALEX
Perhaps you're right --
I'll do my best
To turn our lives around
And brush away this memory.
GEORGE
I'll phone you when I get to Venice.
ALEX
Giulietta?
GEORGE
Now you be good to her...
I have to say these were
The sweetest days I've ever known...
ALEX
Well, have a pleasant journey...
GEORGE
One thing before I go,
Just one thing you should know:
Rose doesn't like to be alone...
ELIZABETH
You're a delinquent.
A silly schoolboy with a gun.
Take a look at what you've done.
I hope you're satisfied.
ROSE (re-entering)
Goodbye, Alex.
Goodbye forever.
We've packed your tunic,
Here's your gun as well.
So, blow your brains out,
Go to hell,
Just leave me.
ALEX (stunned)
You don't know what you're saying...
ROSE
I've phoned Marcel.
To see you off.
MARCEL
Come along,
Get marching.
Double-quick,
Look lively.
ALEX
Let me see...
My suitcase...
ROSE (momentarily alone)
Will he ever forgive me?
But what can I do?
I'm in love with them both...
But I only have one life,
Not two...
MARCEL
Your life is one enormous drama!
My God, you'll be the death of me!
What a mess...
Let me see...
A memory that is best forgotten --
That's what this ugly scene should be.
Life goes on,
So must we...
ROSE
"Trapani"...
Marcel, we're taking a trip.
I'm told that Venice is fun.
We have to meet an Italian lady...
GEORGE
...And then with a swift karate-chop
I removed his gun --
You should have been there!
Poor chap didn't know what hit him...
GIULIETTA (interrupting)
Still, George!
If you can't keep your tongue still,
You will have the face of Edith Sitwell!
GEORGE
Ah well, they're happy...
It's for the best anyway...
Let's face it,
He's the man for her,
And I'm the man for you, dear...
GIULIETTA
Don't talk such nonsense --
You'll never stop loving her.
You don't fool me:
You're quite besotted with her...
Stop. Wait. Good. Please...
Still, George...
GEORGE
With my scarf
RIFLE-RANGE BARKER
Who's feeling lucky?
Twenty out of twenty
And a prize could be yours!
FREAK-SHOW BARKER
See "Marie the Monkey"
With the poisonous claws!
RIFLE-RANGE BARKER
There's a prize
To be won!
FREAK-SHOW BARKER
Take a risk,
Take a ride!
RIFLE-RANGE BARKER
Right this way,
Have a go!
FREAK-SHOW BARKER
Try your luck
And step inside!
CHORUS
If you reach
For the moon,
If you aim
For the sky,
Then the moon
And the sky
Can be yours --
Come on and try!
Everybody loves a hero!
Let's hear it for the man with the gun!
Everybody loves a hero...
BARKER
And you, sir,
Are now the proud owner
Of this magnificent donkey!
CHORUS
Everybody loves a hero!
Let's hear it for the man with the gun!
Everybody loves a hero...
FRIEND 1 (to ALEX)
Two more days...
FRIEND 2
Just two more days!
FRIEND 1
...And you'll be back
To civvy street again!
FRIEND 3
And decent food.
FRIEND 2
And your life is yours at last!
FRIEND 3
You lucky devil!
GIRLS
Your girlfriend's gonna love that donkey!
ALL
You'll be her hero!
ALEX (detaching himself from the limpet GIRL)
Two long years...
I had a dream I'd see her name in lights:
Rose Vibert, the shining star!
I've given up trying to find her...
Perhaps she's resting...
FRIEND 3
So who's the lucky girl tonight, then?
ALEX (moving off as the scene dissolves)
I've told you:
It's my uncle.
FRIENDS (fading into the background)
Uncle?
Not likely...
Give her a kiss from us...
ELIZABETH
How you've grown!
ALEX
It's been two years.
ELIZABETH
You should have phoned --
Your uncle isn't here.
ALEX
I might have guessed!
ELIZABETH
And such a splendid uniform!
ALEX (looking around the flat)
The same old paintings.
ELIZABETH
Madame will be so thrilled to meet you --
I'll go and tell her.
ALEX
"Giulietta Trapani"...
ELIZABETH (turning back)
Life has changed!
Since those two met
He lives life to the full!
ALEX
Well, good for him!
ELIZABETH
She has made him young again!
ALEX
Where is he now, then?
ELIZABETH
He's doing up the country villa --
They plan to live there.
Now, tell me, do you still like omelettes?
Won't be a moment!
ALEX
And so he got his wicked way with that Italian girl --
He hasn't lost his touch...
ROSE
Well, hello...
ALEX
I should have known
Where you were hiding --
You like the good life,
George likes trinkets!
God, what a fool
I was to love you!
What was all my searching for?
It's never hard to find a ***!
ROSE
Well, if it makes you happy, think it...
ALEX
You scheming ***...
ROSE
The truth is we're a perfect pair.
ALEX
Because he's rich...
ROSE
Shout and scream --
I don't care...
ALEX
You could have let me know...!
ROSE
Your uncle's shown me new horizons...
ALEX
Well, didn't I?
ROSE
And as a lover he is perfect too.
ALEX
Another lie!
ROSE
He takes his time.
Unlike you.
ALEX
I wasn't good enough?
ROSE
Why can't you listen
And come to your senses?
It's George...
I really love George...
He's made me a
Better, fuller, stronger person,
I have never been as happy!
ALEX
Or, indeed, as wealthy.
ROSE
Look, I don't need your uncle's money!
And I could have a thousand lovers!
Yet I've been faithful and I'm happy --
More faithful than he'll ever be:
It's not as if he's married me...
ALEX (calming)
I'd better go...
I'm sorry...
It was a shock...
ROSE
Try and understand,
And it won't hurt you so much.
ALEX
At least admit you loved me once...
ROSE
Of course I did.
I may even love you now...
George gives me so much...
But he gets so little from me...
But with you I made an impression
That will last you a lifetime...
ALEX (moving close to her)
So change my life for me again...
ALEX
Here we go again!
Heaven knows when she'll be back --
That girl has got a knack
Of keeping you guessing!
ELIZABETH (entering, flustered)
Madame will soon be here,
But she says you are to leave:
Your uncle is coming,
You'd better get going...
ALEX
So why all the panic?
Why shouldn't I be here?
ELIZABETH
She's scared that his heart
Couldn't stand all this drama...
ALEX
Well, it's hardly a shock
If my uncle sees me here...
That girl is unbelievable!
Was last night the sort of thing
She could just forget?
It would be hard to find
A more capricious mind...
ROSE
What are you doing here?
ALEX
All right, where have you been?
ROSE
Will you please disappear?
ALEX
What the hell do you mean?
ROSE (turns away)
Leave me, leave me!
I don't want George exposed
To some unpleasant scene.
ALEX (getting out his gun)
If I can't have you, no one will.
Killing you would be a pleasure.
ROSE
So all you're fit for is to kill?
Go on and pull the trigger,
See if I care!
Come on, soldier!
Be a hero!
ALEX
You never loved me?
ROSE
Does it matter?
You never meant it?
Who remembers?
And now you hate me...
Go away, you little
Schoolboy...
GEORGE
My only genuine Matisse!
Thank God...
No damage done...
Would someone kindly tell me
What on earth has happened?
ELIZABETH
He lost his head,
The gun went off,
She's bleeding badly,
Use your scarf --
Here, let me help...
GEORGE
You'd better phone the doctor.
ALEX
I should never have come back here...
GEORGE
Oh, don't talk such nonsense!
ALEX
I'll bow out now --
It's the decent thing to do.
GEORGE
Don't be absurd.
ALEX
I'm a disaster...
GEORGE
Oh, come, come!
ALEX
...It wouldn't last a week --
She'd be far better off with you.
GEORGE
You two have your lives before you.
ALEX
It would end in ***...
GEORGE
I'm too old for her --
It's high time I withdrew.
ALEX
Your place is here.
GEORGE
The jowls are dropping...
ALEX
It's the light.
GEORGE
...The paunch needs propping up --
She'd be far better off with you.
BOTH
Your words are generous and selfless,
But alas untrue --
She'd be far better off with you.
ALEX
You are steeped in wit and wisdom.
GEORGE
Well, I've learnt the odd thing...
ALEX
You could teach George Bernard Shaw
A thing or two!
GEORGE
I had a go...
ALEX
You've dined with Garbo...
GEORGE
Only twice.
ALEX
...Translated "La Bohème" --
She'd be far better off with you.
GEORGE
You're athletic.
ALEX
You're distinguished.
GEORGE
You don't cheat at croquet.
ALEX
You're more seasoned.
GEORGE
You can skate.
ALEX
You're in "Who's Who".
GEORGE
Just half an inch.
ALEX
We're talking drivel.
GEORGE
So we are.
BOTH
Can't we be civilized?
She'd be far better off with you.
Your words are generous and selfless,
But alas untrue.
It's only Rose that matters!
Just take a look: there's no comparison
Between us two --
She'd be far better off with you!
GEORGE
You're too young
And too confused
To understand what's best,
And what's best is obvious:
The two of you belong together --
There'll be less damage!
ALEX
Perhaps you're right --
I'll do my best
To turn our lives around
And brush away this memory.
GEORGE
I'll phone you when I get to Venice.
ALEX
Giulietta?
GEORGE
Now you be good to her...
I have to say these were
The sweetest days I've ever known...
ALEX
Well, have a pleasant journey...
GEORGE
One thing before I go,
Just one thing you should know:
Rose doesn't like to be alone...
ELIZABETH
You're a delinquent.
A silly schoolboy with a gun.
Take a look at what you've done.
I hope you're satisfied.
ROSE (re-entering)
Goodbye, Alex.
Goodbye forever.
We've packed your tunic,
Here's your gun as well.
So, blow your brains out,
Go to hell,
Just leave me.
ALEX (stunned)
You don't know what you're saying...
ROSE
I've phoned Marcel.
To see you off.
MARCEL
Come along,
Get marching.
Double-quick,
Look lively.
ALEX
Let me see...
My suitcase...
ROSE (momentarily alone)
Will he ever forgive me?
But what can I do?
I'm in love with them both...
But I only have one life,
Not two...
MARCEL
Your life is one enormous drama!
My God, you'll be the death of me!
What a mess...
Let me see...
A memory that is best forgotten --
That's what this ugly scene should be.
Life goes on,
So must we...
ROSE
"Trapani"...
Marcel, we're taking a trip.
I'm told that Venice is fun.
We have to meet an Italian lady...
GEORGE
...And then with a swift karate-chop
I removed his gun --
You should have been there!
Poor chap didn't know what hit him...
GIULIETTA (interrupting)
Still, George!
If you can't keep your tongue still,
You will have the face of Edith Sitwell!
GEORGE
Ah well, they're happy...
It's for the best anyway...
Let's face it,
He's the man for her,
And I'm the man for you, dear...
GIULIETTA
Don't talk such nonsense --
You'll never stop loving her.
You don't fool me:
You're quite besotted with her...
Stop. Wait. Good. Please...
Still, George...
GEORGE
With my scarf I made a tourniquet --
Shantung silk, but worth the sacrifice --
It stemmed the flow, the arm was saved, and...
GIULIETTA
Still, George,
Rose would seem the kind of lady
Who would live through any blood-bath...
GEORGE
Darling, it's over --
So don't be so cynical.
I don't suppose that you've become a nun
Since last I saw you...
GIULIETTA
Wouldn't you love that!
Perpetual chastity!
GEORGE
So tell me,
Have you found some young Adonis?
GIULIETTA (back to work again)
Stop. Wait. Good. Please...
No, George.
BOTH
Time and light are fading --
Shouldn't we make the most of
Every precious moment?
Life is sweet and slow and still and...
VOICES
I'm not leaving here till I get what I came for...it's a
scandal...out of my way...heaven help him if he won't
pay...who are you pushing...I got here first...all I want
is what's fair...he had better be there...
GEORGE (over the voices)
For heaven's sake!
Who's making all that mayhem?
MARCEL (to GEORGE)
Thank God you're here!
We've got trouble with Rose --
HOTELIER (to MARCEL)
Are you certain that
This is the man?
Running up bills
Wherever she goes!
Is he the one
Footing the bill?
(to the others)
This is the man I was
Looking for,
Is this the man?
This is your man!
DOCTOR (to MARCEL)
Can you be certain that
This is the man?
Is this the right man?
CASHIER (to HOTELIER) This is the man
Who will pay for
The eighty-one phone calls!
I beg of you, pay!
My poor mother is dying!
HOTELIER (to GEORGE)
She loses her job if
These bills don't get settled!
If I lose my job, then...
PHARMACIST (to DOCTOR)
This is the man
Who will pay for
The codeine and dressings!
DOCTOR (to GEORGE)
I've called the police, there
(to GEORGE)
We'll call the police if...
Are eight in the lobby!
CASHIER
The Doge's Suite!
HOTELIER
DOCTOR & PHARMACIST
Beluga caviar!
Twenty thousand lire!
GONDOLIER
You are the man,
I understand,
Who can clear my expenses.
Here they are:
Thirty thousand lire! CASHIER
Forty thousand!
HOTELIER
Fifty thousand!
GEORGE (counting)
DOCTOR & PHARMACIST
Nineteen...
Twenty thousand lire!
GIULIETTA (counting)
GONDOLIER
Twenty-three...
Thirty thousand lire!
GEORGE & GIULIETTA
Forty-eight...
CASHIER
Forty thousand!
Forty-nine...
HOTELIER
Fifty thousand!
MARCEL
George, I'm sorry...She's been very ill.
ROSE
George...George...
My life is draining...
Away...
MARCEL (backing out, to GEORGE)
We'd best be on our way --
We'll leave you three alone...
GIULIETTA
So this is Rose Vibert.
The famous Rose Vibert.
GEORGE
I have to talk to her.
Sit down and talk to her.
This can't go on another day.
Rose, what can I do with you?
Wreaking havoc left and right --
It's absurd!
She must change her ways,
She must pass this passing phase --
Problem child...
Running wild...
Rose, I ought to strangle you!
But there's a style about that girl
That stops me in my tracks.
Heaven knows why she
Wants to waste her life with me...
And yet if she went off,
If she set herself free,
As I've told her she should...
Where on earth would I be?
GIULIETTA
You'd be lost, my friend,
And so would she...
ROSE
...And he said to me
He really ought to buy that vineyard...
GIULIETTA
Please, Rose.
Don't you think you ought
To take a little rest
From George's foibles?
ROSE
Well, you'll have to learn to live with it.
That and all his other pet obsessions:
God and Trollope,
Other women...
GIULIETTA
Please, Rose!
George is a remarkable man.
He was there when I thought I had no one.
He saw me through my darkest moments.
He made me talk about my husband.
We had been married five days...
He drove like the wind...
Not any more...
But George was always there,
No matter when or where.
He stopped me feeling so alone...
ROSE
When did you meet him?
GIULIETTA
One evening at Harry's bar --
He wore a silver tie pin
And a smile that was even brighter...
ROSE
I know that tie pin --
It catches on everything!
GIULIETTA
And as for all those paint rags...
ROSE
Heaven help us!
BOTH
We deserve a medal!
ROSE
Nice to see that George has settled in:
Fifteen novels on the go, as always!
Used to drive me to distraction...
GIULIETTA
Please, Rose!
Last year he forgot my birthday,
So I rearranged his bookmarks...
ROSE
George dear, we're talking --
We don't need you hovering.
GIULIETTA
My darling, you're completely right --
We're doing fine without you.
GEORGE (smiles)
I get the picture.
Condemn me to solitude!
ROSE
You'll find some things to keep you occupied.
GIULIETTA
We'll call you if we need you!
ROSE & GIULIETTA
Time and light are fading --
Shouldn't we make the most
Of every precious moment?
Life is sweet and slow and still
And perfect!
All the more, now our man George
Has brought the two of us together!
ROSE
I never imagined she'd be like that --
Your lady friend comes as a sweet surprise...
A wonderfully sweet surprise...
GEORGE
Take a deep breath and prepare yourself...
I've been such a trusting fool...
Those wretched investments I made
Have gone down the drain...
After today, there'll be no more champagne...
The ways of the world are cruel...
ROSE
If I ask a question,
Will you promise...?
You must promise...
That the answer to my question is "yes"...
GEORGE
Yes, I'll say yes...
ROSE
Take a deep breath and prepare yourself...
My mind is in such a mess...
But really, George,
All that I wanted to ask was this:
Would you be willing to marry me?
GEORGE
I've already told you.
Yes.
REGISTRAR
"...I now pronounce you man and wife."
MARCEL
My dears, congratulations!
GUEST 1
Here's to the happy couple!
MARCEL
Here's to happy days!
And even better nights!
GUEST 2
You lucky man!
GEORGE (turning to ROSE, with a grin)
Well, now we've done it!
ROSE
And, oh, what fun it was...
GIULIETTA (advancing on ROSE)
And now I claim my best man's rights!
GEORGE
Bravo, bravo!
ALEX (deadpan)
"News takes time to reach us here.
So you're married.
How time flies.
And George will be a father soon.
That was more of a surprise.
Perhaps one day we'll meet again,
If I ever leave the army..."
Live or perish
In its flame,
Love will never,
Never let you
Be the same...
Love will never,
Never let you
Be the same!