Our Time (1974) - full transcript

[Birds chirping]

[Bell tolls]

♪ All things bright
and beautiful ♪

♪ all creatures great
and small ♪

♪ all things bright
and wonderful ♪

♪ the lord god
made them all ♪

♪ he made both
heaven and earth ♪

♪ he made the bird
that sings ♪

♪ he made
their glowing colors ♪

♪ he made their tiny wings

♪ all things bright
and beautiful ♪



♪ all creatures great
and small ♪

♪ all things bright
and wonderful ♪

♪ the lord god made them all

♪ a...

♪ Men

welcome, miss Reed.
So nice of you to join US.

Well, ladies, it's nice
to see you all here.

I see many old faces,

and quite a few new faces--

I see many old faces

and quite a few new faces
among you.

For those of you who
are here for the first time,

let me bid you
a special welcome,

and say that this
marks the 97th year



the penfield academy
has commenced its business,

and by business,

I mean that we are
in the business of learning,

of working hard
and playing hard,

of studying hard
and praying hard.

As Thomas Edison,
that great man,
once remarked,

"genius is comprised
of 10 parts:

"One part inspiration,

9 parts perspiration."

Well, I hope we have a few
geniuses in the audience

who will take that to heart.

He that walketh uprightly,
walketh surely,

but he that perverteth his ways
shall be known.

Let US pray.

Our father...

Our father,
who art in heaven,
hallowed be...

You're off
to a great start.

I couldn't
care less.

Shh!

On earth as it is in heaven.

Give US this day
our daily bread...

[Bell tolls]

Abby!

Abby Reed, muffy Pratt!

I hate to do this, Abby,
but you were late,
and that's a demerit,

and I'm afraid
I'm going to have to
give you both demerits

for talking in assembly.

Honestly,
I hate to do it,

but as president
of the student council,

I couldn't very well
see you and not report you,
now could I?

Hey, Laura, how are you?
Nice to see you again.

Did you
have a nice vacation?

Fine. Thanks.

Did you go to the cape
again this year?

Excuse me.

Could you tell me
where Mrs. Moran's
class is?

Abby: Yes. You go
through that door,

up that one flight
of stairs,
take a right,

and it's your second
door on your left.

Turn right.
Second door
on my left.

Thank you very much.

Laura:
I suppose you think
it's terribly funny

Abby: The sooner
she learns this place
is one part inspiration

and 9 parts bullshit,
the better off she'll be.

♪
♪

Play ball!

Ann, pass.
Ann, 2 dribbles, pass.

Third?

Ow!

Reed!

Third base!

Take a shot!
Take a shot!

Good! Good!

This is basketball.

Shoot, Ann.

Come on. Try it again.
Try it again.

Pick it up and pass.

You got to third base?

Keep your eye
on the ball.

Michael Brooks. He
goes to St. ambrose.

Uhh!

Thanks a bunch!

Muffy, summer's over!

Look alive!

What's it like?

What?

Third base!

Oh, it's ok,
I guess.

Third's sort
of icky, too,

but in a nice kind
of way.

Are you gonna go
all the way?

Don't know.

I'll bet.

I don't!

A month and a half
before he did it.

My summer was all right,
I guess. I don't know.

I really liked this guy
who was a lifeguard
at the club,

but he was too old for me.

He's graduating
from college
this year.

I wish I was a blonde.

Michael goes to
St. ambrose, huh?

Yes. Naturally,
my parents
can't stand him.

How come?

And my father's afraid
he's a communist

'cause
his father campaigned
for adlai Stevenson.

Is he?

What? Communist?

No. Going to seduce you.

Probably.

I mean, I really wanted
to do it this summer.
I really did.

Why didn't you?

Because, you know,
I was afraid if I did,
he wouldn't respect me.

We only met this summer.

Does that stuff get
all over your pillow?

Yes.

I wonder what it's like.

I'm still stuck
on third base.

Have you ever spoken
to anybody who did it,

I mean, in detail?

My mother.

She gave me
a detailed account

of how I was found
under a cabbage leaf
on my grandfather's farm.

Maybe that is
where she got me.

That would explain
why my father left her.

Oh, I think it's ok if
you really love someone.

The thing is you'd
have to be sure

that they really love
you, too.

That way you won't
feel cheap or anything.

That depends. I mean, if
your husband's the one

who did it
to you beforehand,

but if he's not--

hi, gang.

Anner!hey, Annie babes.

I can't stay. I just
dropped in to say hello.

Prune face is on the prowl.

Doesn't that stuff
get all over your pillow?

Did you have
a good summer?

Ugh!

Did you go out west?

No. We went to Europe.

Oh, you're lucky.

I never want to see another
ruin as long as I live.

Uh-oh. I hear the old bat
comin'. I'll see ya.

You are on your way
to where, miss Alden?

To my room, miss picard.

I was under the impression

I had to go
to the bathroom.

See that you go
before the second bell
next time.

I'm sorry, miss picard,
but you can't control
when you have to--

you can, and you will.

Good night, miss Alden.

Watch it, miss Alden!

I don't even know
anyone I'd like to
do it with.

How about Malcolm?

Malcolm? I'd never
do it with Malcolm.

He really loves you.

He's so gangly
and uncoordinated.

Michael's captain
of the soccer team
this year.

They let Malcolm carry
their equipment for them
last year,

but now they won't even
let him sit on the bench
during the games.

They're afraid it
will give the other team
too much confidence.

I think he's
really very sweet.

"Sweet." the perfect
word for him.

It's not his fault he
was born a fig Newton.

Just wait until he gets
interested in someone else.
Then you'll like him.

I don't like
fig Newtons.

Miss picard:
No talking after lights out.

That's a demerit each.

Abby: Shit.

2 each.

Blessed is the food which
we are about to receive

from the father our god

from whom
all blessings flow.

Amen.

Amen.

Dorothy broke
my popover record
this week.

She ate 19 with butter,
honey, everything.

It seems to me,
miss Alden,

that instead of
concentrating on other
people's eating habits,

we should look
after our own.

I don't care for any,
thank you.

Well, gang,
it's split-piss soup

for the third night
running.

What is everyone
wearing for the dance
tomorrow night?

We're not allowed
to wear red,
did you hear?

What?

In front of the men.

Well, I was
thinking of wearing
shocking pink.

Do you think
that's ok?

Tough beans
if it isn't.

Guess what we're
having tomorrow night?

Lobster newburg?

Wrong!

Cream chicken.

Are you kidding?
Before a dance?

There must be a revolution
in the kitchen.

It just so happens
that we're never having
lobster newburg again,

and do you know why not?

Because Mrs. Pendleton
read somewhere

that shellfish
is an aphrodisiac.

Hence,
to prevent mass rape,

lobster newburg
has been stricken
from the repertoire.

How pathetic.

Miss moran,
do you think shellfish
are an aphrodisiac?

Oh, I wouldn't
know, dear.

Miss moran, is it true
they put saltpeter
in our food

before every dance
to calm US down?

I think you must
ask the dietitian, Abby.

I'm sure that anything
you girls request

she'll be most happy
to get for you.

[Ringing]

I'd like to announce there
will be a brief meeting

concerning the girls
attending the St. ambrose
mixer tomorrow evening.

Would all you young ladies
kindly give your undivided
attention to Mrs. Pendleton,

who will fill you in
on the procedures.

Thank you.

Now, before I begin,

would you all please
draw yourselves up

and take a deep breath.

[Inhaling]

That's better.

Good posture is the secret
of good listening.

Carriage and bearing
are the most
important qualities

in creating a good
first impression.

Those of you
who have attended my
public speaking classes...

Do you think
she ever did it?

Once, and it
was by herself.

Now, as you all know,
tomorrow night is
the St. ambrose mixer.

Mixers are optional
to both juniors
and seniors.

We are looking forward
to a very pleasant evening.

Music will be provided
by Mr. Orlento carletti
and his orchestra.

And for seniors only,

there will be one hour
of smoking.

Yay!
Yay! Yay!

All right, girls!

And we're going to have
a lovely wine punch.

[Applause]

All right, girls.

You're limited
to 2 glasses each.

Aw!
Aw!
Aw! Aw!

But for those of you
who are not,

I'll run
through them briefly.

Tonight we will be drawing
numbers from this fishbowl.

The young men at St. ambrose

will be doing
the same thing.

When you arrive,

you will stand on the right
of the gym,

and when your number
is called,

you will walk gracefully up
to the front of the gym,

where you will meet your date
with the corresponding number.

[Band plays]

Mrs. Pendleton: Number 1.

Number 2.

Number 3.

Number 4.

He's the one
standing
over there.

He's
got a gray
jacket on.

Number 5.
There he is.

That guy?

Number 6.

We've got a problem.

Something wrong,
muffy?

Oh, no, nothing,
Mr. Keats.

I was just
blowing my nose.

You're allowed
to blow your nose
in the gym, muffy.

You're not supposed
to leave without
a chaperone.

You know that.

I know. I'm sorry.

Let's go back,
shall we?

Number 24.

Number 25.

Hi, muffy.

Oh, hi, Malcolm.

See you later, muffy.

Bye. Thank you,
Mr. Keats.

What number
are you?

30.

Well, I'm 41.

No. That's ok.

Oh, it's no trouble.

No. It's too late.
I'm next.

Oh, muffy, i--

I'll see you later.

30, sir.

And yours, Helen?

29,
Mrs. Pendleton.

Where the devil
is number 30?

Here I am.

Oh, muffy. Now
we're straightened out.

Helen, I want you
to meet David...

Walton.

Walton. David, this
is Helen Connery.

How do you do?
I'm sorry
I was late.

Oh, don't worry
about it.

Buzzy knight.

Buzzy knight.

I hate
these things,
don't you?

Yeah. Right.

Do you know Helen?

Who?

Helen Connery--
that blonde girl
that was just there?

No. Is that
her name--Helen?

Double cut?

Hi.

Hi.

How are you?

Fine. You?

You look--

yeah. You, too.

Um, what sports
are you interested in?

Tennis, basketball,
soccer.

You see, actually,
the whiteness of the whale

is the most important
aspect of the novel

in that melville is
trying to make a statement

about the nature
of good and evil.

Who's your
favorite author?

Helen James--
Henry James.

Have you seen
any good movies lately?

Yeah. Uh, excuse me.

Do you mind if we,
uh, double cut?

No.

Guess you're
stuck with me.

Would you dance
with me now,
muffy?

I wish we
could be alone.

Me, too.

Did you miss me?

Did you miss me?

I asked you first.

Sort of.

I missed you a lot.

Yeah. Me, too.

Can you ever get out
of this place?

Normally, I should have
another free weekend
this term,

but I've got
so many demerits,

they won't let me take it,

but I could
take an overnight.

When?

Uh, where could I stay?

When can you take it?

[Drum roll]

Ladies and gentlemen,
may I have
your attention, please?

We've reached the end
of our evening,

and a very pleasant
and successful evening
it's been,

wouldn't you agree?

[Applause and cheering]

We'd like to thank
all you young men
from St. ambrose

for joining US here
this evening,

and now the orchestra
will play the last dance
of the evening.

Will you all return to
your original partners,
please,

for the last dance?

I'd like to take
this opportunity

to thank all you
lovely young ladies

for affording St. ambrose
a little feminine
companionship

for the evening.

All right. All right.

All right.

There are 2 busses outside.

Roll will be
taken promptly,

so let's make
these good-byes

as swift as
is humanly possible.

Boo! Boo!Boo! Boo!

If it's true love,
you can write
her a letter.

[Band plays
good night, ladies]

Excuse me, buzzy.

It's me again.

Hi.

Hi.

Do you wanna dance?

Sure.

Make it a 10,
and I'll go by myself.

You promise
you'll meet me?

I promise.

Well, are you sure
you wanna go through
with it?

You'd never hurt me,
would you?

Never.

Never, ever.

[Kissing]

We better watch it.

When exactly
will you come?

I could
take an overnight
in 2 weeks.

Ok. What day?

Um, Saturday.

I'll say I'm staying
at my grandmother's
in Boston.

2 weeks from tonight.

Is it a deal?

It's a deal.

Hey. Sorry.

Hey, Malcolm.

Hi, Malcolm.

Hi, Abby.

Have either of you
seen muffy around?

Yeah. She was dancing
with you all night.

Yeah. I know, but she
had to go back to buzzy
for the last dance,

and he says she ran off
in tears for no reason.

What?

I was just wondering
if you'd seen her.

Oh, I better go find her.

Malcolm, would you
please do me a favor
and get lost?

Sure, Mike. Sorry.

Just wondering
if you'd seen her.

I'll see you, Abby.

Oh, Michael, I hope
nothing's wrong.

Nothing's wrong,

and, quite frankly,
what we were discussing

is a little bit
more important.

I know.

Will you tell her
I'm standing
in front of the bus?

Yes, Malcolm.

I'm just making sure.

Oh, Michael,
it must be so awful

to love somebody
that doesn't
love you.

That'll never happen
to US, will it?

I'll always
love you, Abby.

Are you sure?

Look, it's up
to you, Abby.

I know. That's
what I'm afraid of.

Well, you want to,
don't you?

[Ring]Listen, that's
the warning bell.

You want to, don't you?

Yes.

[Ring]

I gotta go.

Listen, don't forget
that I love you,
that you love me.

I'll try not to.

And call me
if you have any problems.

I will.

[Quietly]
You, too.

Muff?

Hey, muffy.

Muff, are you ok?

Yes.

What's the matter?

You better start
getting undressed.

What did you think
of Michael?

I'm sorry I didn't get
a chance to introduce you.

Did you have a nice time?

Malcolm was looking
for you, you know.

Hey, muff...

Muffy, what's the matter?

Nothing.

Please tell me.
What is it?

It's nothing.

I just feel pukey.
That's all.

It must have been
the cream chicken.

Why are you crying?

'Cause I feel like it.

Well, why do you
feel like it?

'Cause I feel like it.
Is that a crime?

Sorry.

Oh, Abby...

God, I'm just
such a big nothing.

What is it?
What happened?

Nothing...

Except I wish
I was pretty.

Muff, you are pretty.

You're beautiful.

No, I'm not.

I'm not, and I
don't care, usually.

It's just that sometimes
it would make life
a lot easier,

you know what I mean?

It would just
make life a lot simpler.

Tell me exactly
what happened.

I don't know.

I just never know
what to say.

You know what I mean?

I tried to talk
about him.

I asked him what sports
he was interested in
and what books he liked,

and he'd tell me,
and I wouldn't know
what to say next.

Well, he's got to
make an effort, too.

I know,
but my heart's pounding
a mile a minute,

I'm so afraid I'm gonna
say something dumb.

Everybody says dumb things.

That's just the way
everybody is.

It may be the way
everybody is,

but it's not how
they seem to me.

Oh, muff, you're
so much smarter
and brighter than--

and then there
was this confusion
at the beginning.

He thought
I was Helen Connery.

Oh, now I begin
to understand.

No. It's not her fault.

She got up
to the platform late,

and Mrs. Pendleton
thought she
was number 30,

but, really,
she was 29.

It's not her fault
she's gorgeous.

That's the oldest trick
in the book.

She pulled
that exact same thing
on Ann last year.

I mean, she's applying
to Wellesley, right?

She's a rat.

He took one look at me--

well, he's human,
isn't he?

After some girl
throws herself at him,

and I'm sure that's
exactly what she did,

I mean,
he'd be disappointed
with whatever came next.

He'd be disappointed
if Sandra Dee came next.

Yeah?

Well, thanks anyway.

Well, if he didn't see
through Helen Connery,

then he's not worth
a second thought anyway.

He was so cute, though.

What's his name?

Buzzy knight.

You can't make people
like you.

I always seem to
like people who don't
even know I'm alive.

You know,
just once I wish
I could meet somebody

who I liked and who
like me back, just once.

You will, muff.

It takes time, though.

I never really liked anybody
before I met Michael.

But they liked you.

You've always had people
who liked you.

Well, I certainly
never had anybody
that loved me

the way Malcolm
loves you.

You should
have seen his face.

Honestly, he was
so worried about you.

He came running up
to Michael and me
after the dance

and asked if we'd seen you,

and, you know,
I was thinking to myself,

"he's really very attractive.

He has the kind of looks
that are gonna age
beautifully."

Yeah. He'll be
a knockout at 90.

Good-bye,
Mrs. Pendleton.

Good-bye, Abigail?

Yes.

Are you going
somewhere?

The weekend.
My grandmother's.

I filled out the form
2 weeks ago.

You did? 2 weeks ago?

Let me see.
2 weeks ago.

Why, here it is.

I must have completely
forgotten about it.

Yeah.
Well, good-bye,
Mrs. Pendleton.

Abigail.

Yes, Mrs. Pendleton?

She was supposed
to call, um...Today.

Really? Well, I haven't
spoken with her.

I'm sure she'll
call any minute.

I'm sure she will.

Abigail?

Yes.

Perhaps you should wait
until your grandmother
calls.

My train.

I'll miss my train.

I'm sure she'll
call any minute.

Sit down.

Good-bye, Mrs. Pendleton.

Good-bye, Judith.
Have a pleasant
weekend.

I honestly
don't know how

good-bye, Linda.

Have
a pleasant weekend.

Good-bye, Mrs. Pendleton.

I've never
had the pleasure

of meeting
your grandmother.

She's very nice.

[Telephone rings]

Hello?

Yes, operator, I'm her.

That's me.

Hello, grandma?

I'm fine.

Yes. Everything's
all right.

Mrs. Pendleton
would like to speak
to you a moment.

No. Everything's fine,
grandma, really.

Mrs. Pendleton would
just like to say hello.
That's all.

Hello, Mrs. Reed.
Margaret Pendleton.

I'm fine, thank you.

No, no.
Everything's fine.

I simply forgot
about Abigail's plans to
visit you this weekend,

and I wanted
the opportunity

of saying hello to you.

Well, I'm so glad you did,
Mrs. Pendleton.

Abigail's told me
so much about you.

Yes. She's a lovely girl,
not at all like her mother.

I'm so looking forward
to her visit this weekend.

I almost never
get a chance to see her.

You know how young people
are these days.

They always seem to be
in such a hurry.

Exactly.

Oh, by the way,

could you please
remind Abigail
to bring a warm coat?

Yes. Gets a bit chilly
in Boston,

and I don't want her
to catch a cold.

I certainly will,
Mrs. Reed.

I look forward
to meeting you.

I trust you'll
be coming up to
graduation this spring?

Very good.

Yes. I'll tell her.

Good-bye, Mrs. Reed.

Your grandmother
asks that you
bring a warm coat.

Oh, she always worries.

She's concerned
for your welfare,
as we all are.

Abigail?

Have a pleasant weekend.

Thank you. You, too.

[Whistle blows]

Abby: Are you sure
everything's
going to be ok?

Michael: Yeah,
I'm sure, I'm sure.

Are you positive?

May I help you?

Yes. I have
a reservation.

Certainly.
What is your name?

Abby.

Do you have a last name
to go with that?

Oh. Parker.

Parker.

I have a reservation.

[Ding]

Room 06,
fourth floor.

The bellboy will
show you to your room.

Have a good stay.

Thank you very much.

May I help you?

Yes, I'd like
a room, please.

I have
a reservation.

Certainly.
What is your name?

Michael.

[Water running]

[Gargling]

Oh, good evening, sir.

Uh, lobby, please.

Thank you.

Yeah?

[Giggles]

Where have you been?

I don't want
to talk about it.

Can I come in?

Oh. Sorry.

You tired?

Sort of.

Are you?

Sort of.

Would you like
to get undressed?

No.

I was only kidding.
Excuse me.

You're naked,
aren't you?

Yeah.

Totally?

Yeah.

I'm sorry to be
such a prude.

That's ok.

We don't have to
do anything, you know.

I know.

Hey, what
are you doing?

I thought
I'd have a mint.
Want one?

Those aren't mints.

Oh.

I mean, just in case
we do decide
to do something,

we have
to be careful.

We have to be
careful, right?

You've really thought
of everything.

I didn't think
of those things when...

Michael, would you--

I mean, if anything happened,
would you marry me?

Not that
it's going to.

But just say it did.

And not that i'd
go through with it,
because I wouldn't.

But, you know?

If that's what you want,
yes, I would.

You don't think
I'm loose or anything.

You know I've never
done this before, don't you?

I know.

It wouldn't matter
if you had, Abby.
I love you.

I love you, Abby.

2?

There's no use
taking chances.

Will you love me
in the morning?

Of course I will.
Probably more.

We're gonna do it,
aren't we?

Yeah, I guess we are.

Ok. Do it.

We have to want to,
you know.

I want to.

Just get me started.

Ok.

Answer me
one question first.

Now what?

Is it true you can tell
a girl's a virgin

by the way she walks?

No, but you can tell
if a man's a virgin

by the way hewalks.

No kidding.

I didn't know
men could be virgins.

Are you a virgin?

No.

How many?

One or 2.

Well, which is it,
one or 2?

Uh, one.

How was it?

I don't want to
talk about it
with you, Abby.

Was she
an older woman?

Sort of.
She was 18,
and I was 15.

Oh.

Was she prettier
than me?

No.

Well, did you love her?

Yeah, in a way.

More than me?

No. Abby...

It's gonna hurt,
isn't it?

Let's forget
the whole thing.

Ok, fine.
That suits me fine.

Good.

Double good.

[Knock knock knock]

Who is it?

What do you mean,
who is it?

Come in.

Abby, what's
the matter?

Look at me.

I look different,
and I feel different.

You look
exactly the same.

Maybe better.

No, I don't.

[Crying]

This is it--
the beginning
of the end.

You don't love me
anymore.

What do you mean,
I don't love you
anymore?

I love you.

You do?

Yeah. Don't you
love me?

Yes, I do.

I love you a lot.

What are you getting
so upset for?

Are you disappointed?

No.

Could we...

Could we what?

Is it ok if...

I mean, are we allowed
to do it again?

O, lord, thou hast
searched me

and known me.

Thou knowest
my down sitting

and mine uprising.

Thou understandest
my thought afar off.

Thou compassest my path

and my lying down.

Thou art acquainted
with all my ways,

for there is not
a word in my tongue,

but lo, o, lord,

thou knowest it altogether.

Thou hast beset me
behind and before...

How is
your grandmother?

Grand.

What'd you do?

We went out to dinner.

Don't tell me
about dinner.

Tell me about
after dinner.

I'm getting to that.

Weren't you frightened
to do it in a hotel?

No, why?

You could've got
caught in a raid.

How was it?

It was great.

We did it
twice last night
and once this morning.

In daylight?

Did you cry?

Sure. Everybody cries.

Did Michael cry?

No, you idiot.

Did you bleed?

No.

Did it hurt?

Well, sort of,
but it's a nice
kind of hurt.

You know
what I mean?

No.

Buzzy's voice:
"Dear muffy,

"and I hope you'll
forgive me.

"It was really not
what you thought at all.

"It was just a joke
between me and David rotham.

"We're always
kidding around like that.

"I'm sorry
you misunderstood.

"I hope when we
see each other again,

"we can be friends.

Sincerely yours,
bayard t. Knight."

Do you think they
check if you're lying
on your s.A.T. Scores?

Sure.

And you get an automatic 200
for just signing your name.

You know, there's
only one place

for every 50 applications
at Wellesley?

You have to be
such a genius

to get into
these damn places.

Why bother?

Hey, what are you
so engrossed in?

Are you still
pondering that letter
to buzzy?

Hey, muff,
snap out of it.

Do you think I ought
to use a quote
from Shakespeare

or Mark twain?

He doesn't
deserve a quote
from the yellow pages.

He apologized, Abby.

I can't hold a grudge
for the rest of my life.

That's the least
he could have done.

Must've taken
a lot of courage

for him to write
that letter.

Thank heaven
for small favors.

Anyway, I don't see
what the harm is

in inviting him
to your party

just to show
there are no
hard feelings.

You're inviting him
to my party?

You mind?

No, I couldn't
care less.

It's just that
you're asking for it.

I'm not asking him
to be my date or anything.

It's just a simple
invitation.

Well, keep it simple.

I don't think he
knows how to read.

Very funny.

Shakespeare
or Mark twain?

Malcolm's coming,
you know.

I know.

Muffy: Well, he must
like me a little,
don't you think,

or else why would
he have bothered
to write me a letter?

Abby: Because
he's an egomaniac,

and he knew
you'd enshrine it.

He must like me a little,
don't you think?

I don't know.

I think Mark twain's
a little lighter,

you know,
a little more casual.

How about
Walt Disney?

Have you heard
anything yet?

Nothing.

He's a blockhead.

He's probably
trying to think

of an appropriate
response.

How about something
clever, like "yes"?

That's appropriate.

Maybe he never
got my letter.

I once got
a Christmas present
in July

from an aunt
I didn't like.

It came with a note
from the post office

explaining that the package
was on a train

and the train got
in a wreck in Providence,

I think he's
a blockhead.

You know what
was in that package?

Gloves. Can you hand me
some of those, please?

What are you,
on a diet?

I told you I haven't
heard anything.

Can I help it
if I eat when
I'm depressed?

Well, it might be
a good idea
not to weigh a ton

just in case
he accepts.

I'll worry about that
when it happens.

It is essential
that an organism,

any organism,

be able to use
its muscles

in smoothly graded
contractions.

Otherwise, it
would be reduced
to using its muscles

in a series
of fast twitches.

Now, as we have seen,

different animals
achieve this movement

by all sorts
of different methods.

Now, will you all
grab hold of one
of your frog legs

and just move it
to get the feeling
of the muscle.

That's right.

That-that's good.
That's very good.

Now, who can tell me
how a frog jumps?

Miss foster?

In the frog muscle,

the muscle cells
twitch

in an all-or-none
fashion

because a twitch
is triggered

by an all-or-none
action potential.

In order to make
a graded movement,

the motor neutrons

are connected
to a small patch
of muscle cells.

By adjusting
the firing pattern
of the muscle cells,

the central
nervous system
can produce--

[bell rings]

Teacher: Wait,
wait, wait. Homework.

I would like you all
to write a 200-word report

on some personal experience

that you've had
from your frog experience.

And don't use anything
out of your textbook

because that won't do.

Look.

Let's see.

It's not the most
romantic thing
I've ever read.

What do you expect him
to say to an invitation?

Something other than--

"Mr. Bayard t. Knight
accepts with pleasure

"the kind invitation
of miss muffy Pratt

to attend
miss Abigail Reed's
Christmas Eve party."

Well, he's coming,
and that's all that counts.

[O little town
of bethlehemplays]

[Doorbell rings]

Well, you're finally
here to help me

now that
everything's done.

I'm sorry. I was
getting dressed.

You weren't
getting dressed

all afternoon,
were you?

And, muffy,
don't you look--

well, we're
very daring,
aren't we?

Well, you think
it's too much?

Quite the contrary.

I think
it's too little.

I think muffy
looks great.

Of course she does.
She looks
very pretty.

I'm just not used
to all this new skin

you girls
wear nowadays.

You look fantastic.

Malcolm's gonna die.

D-i-e, die.

I hope buzzy
likes it.

Well, if he doesn't,

he's even a bigger jerk
than I think he is.

And since
that's impossible,

he'll love it.

You look beautiful,
Abby.

You think so?
Michael likes me
in white.

I wonder if
that's significant.

I hope buzzy
likes pink.

Abigail.

I didn't
recognize you.

Hi, Mrs. Clairmont.

You're a young lady now,
aren't you?

I hate to say it,

but you make me
want to commit suicide.

Although, at the rate
I'm going, you understand,

I might as well
let it happen naturally.

Oh, Abby, you remember
my son James.

Jamie, say hello
to Abigail.

Hello.

I bet you don't
remember that.

God.

Oh, don't be silly,
Jamie.

It was the cutest thing.

Abby always wondered
why you had a teapot
and she didn't.

Oh, the injustices
of life.

Would you excuse me
a minute?

Yes.

[Doorbell rings]

Where have you been?
I thought you'd
never get here.

Let me look at you.

You like it?

You're a knockout.

Hi, Malcolm.

Hi, Abby.

Malcolm's here.

Oh, hi, Malcolm.
Hi, Michael.

Hi.

I hardly
recognized you.

Oh, thanks.

Oh, I didn't mean...

You know
what I meant.

You look--
you look just--

come on, let's
get some booze.

You want to dance?
The band sounds great.

No. Could we just
sit down for a while?

Sure. How about in there?

Malcolm.

Hmm?

Why do you like me?

I don't know.

I--i like you...

What kind of question
is that?

I'm just trying
to figure out

well, i--i think
you're funny and...

Pretty.

I've known you
for a long time.

I know, but, Malcolm,

I'm really not
very nice to you.

You're not?

No.

Haven't you ever
noticed that?

I guess I have
sometimes.

I don't know why
I like you, muffy.

I think
you're a very...

Deep person.

Deep.

You do.

[Doorbell rings]

You like buzzy,
don't you?

I hardly even
know him.

You invited him here.

So what if I did?

Do you think he's
too attractive for me?

I didn't say that.

Well, how do you know

you don't know
anything of the sort.

Hi.

Merry Christmas.

Hi, muff.

Hey, I'm sorry
to be so late.

I got a little lost.

That's ok.

It's legal, see?

Abby's dancing
at the moment.

I'll introduce you to her
when she's through.

Great.

This looks like
a real nice party.

I like
the decorations.

Thanks. Abby and I
spent all day fixing them.

They look swell.

Do you like eggnog?

They have the
greatest eggnog.

Yeah, but, uh...

Well, could it wait
just a second?

Muffy, you know
Helen, don't you?

Hi, muff,
great to see you.

Hi.

It's over there.

Excuse me.

Malcolm.

What?

Muffy?

M-Muffy.

Muffy!

Muffy.

Muffy, what's
the matter?

Here, take my coat.
You're gonna freeze.

Malcolm, are you
in love with me?

Yeah, I guess I am.

Do you want to
consummate your love?

Muffy, what
are you saying?

Well, I think I'm being
perfectly clear.

What word in the sentence
don't you understand?

I'm asking you if you
want to do it with me?

Uh, hold it.
Hold it right there.

You're asking me
if I want to go
all the way with you?

Yes.

Will you let go of me?

Muffy, will you
talk to me?

I don't want
to talk anymore.

Do you want to
make love to me or not?

No.

Y-Yes,
of course I do,

but I don't think
we should,

not when you're
in this frame of mind.

How the hell
do you know

what frame of mind
I'm in?

I want to be
made love to.

Now.

Well, do you want
to make love to me
or not?

If you don't,
just say so,

and I'll find
somebody who does.

Well, now, let me
get this straight.

You're gonna find anybody,
just anybody.

That's right.

You don't need me,
I guess.

You just need a body.

That's right.

What are you
afraid of?

Nothing.

I bet you've
never done it.

Do you have to shout
like that?

You're avoiding
my question.

Have you done it?

Of course. I-I'm 17,
aren't I?

Malcolm.

What?

When did you?

I'd rather not
talk about it.

Who'd you do it with?

Nobody you know.

Oh, really?

Yes. Why,
you don't believe me?

No.

No offense,
of course.

Well, I have.

How was it?

Great.

It was great.

That's what
Abby said.

Abby?

Oh, don't tell
anybody about it, ok?

With Michael?

Yes.

Wow.

There's nothing
wrong with it, is there?

I mean, you did it.

Yeah, but, uh...
She's a girl.

So?

Well, I mean, uh...

She's not--
she's not a virgin.

Wouldn't you marry a girl
who wasn't a virgin?

I--i don't know.

Malcolm.

Well, how come
you don't have to
be pure, then?

'Cause I'm a man.

Well...

I want to do it.

I want to see what
all the fuss is about.

And I want something
that's completely my own,

can you understand that?

Wh-when do you
want to do it?

Right now.

What?

Here?

Why not?

Well...
F-For one thing,

it's sort of
ordinary in a car.

I bet you're scared.

Of course not.

Well...

You're scared.

There.

Isn't that cozy?

Yeah.

Sort of.

Muffy, you sure we're
doing the right thing?

Yes.

Say you love me,
Malcolm.

I love you, muffy.

Is it third base?

Yeah.

Tell me what to do.

Is that it?

Yeah.

Could you move, please?

Sorry.

Maybe we should
go back inside.

You go ahead
if you like.

I'm gonna stay here
for a while.

No, go ahead
if you like.

I-I'm sorry it wasn't
better for you.

Oh, it was.

It was fine.

I just don't see
what all the fuss is about.

Me, neither.

I thought you said
you'd done it before.

I lied.

I thought so.

I'm sorry.

I didn't mean it
like that.

It doesn't
make any difference.

I just don't see
what all the big deal
is about.

It's not your fault.

I guess we better
get back inside.

I'll help you up.

No, I can get up
myself, thanks.

You feel
any different?

Yeah.

You?

No, not a bit.

I thought I would,
but I don't.

Boy, I sure don't see

what all the big fuss
is about.

Me, neither.

Boy, I sure
don't see it.

[Bell rings]

[Bell rings]

We did it!

We passed French!

Abby, I think
I'm pregnant.

[Typewriter keys click]

Mrs. Pratt.

Here. I mean,
that's me.

Would you come
this way, please?

Sit down, please.

We've received
the results
of your test.

It's positive,
as you thought.

Congratulations.
You're pregnant.

You're not very happy
about this, are you,
Mrs. Pratt?

No.

May I ask have you
told Mr. Pratt yet?

No. I--

there is
no Mr. Pratt,
is there?

Yes. He's a student--

no.

Do you know
who the father is?

Of course I do.

What kind of question
is that?

I'm sorry.
I'm only trying
to help you.

Well, I do know
who the father is.

Do you want
to marry him?

Well, my dear,

you're in very
serious trouble.

You know that,
don't you?

I know.

Have you given
any thought to what
you're going to do?

Yes. Dr. Madden,
could you--

I mean, could you...

Perform an abortion?
No, I couldn't.

Do you know anyone
who could?

I'm afraid I don't.

What am I gonna do?

Well, you should've
thought of that
before.

But I did.

I thought you couldn't
get pregnant the first time.

Why on earth
did you think that?

I don't know.
My girlfriend told me.

You mean this is
your very first time?

First and only.

Well, that's
very bad luck,
isn't it?

It's typical.

The only thing
I can suggest

is that you
go to your parents
and tell them.

Do you feel
you can do that?

Abby: He could've helped you
if he wanted to. Damn him!

Muffy: He was nice,
nice as he could be.

Nice, my ass.

It just hit me,
you know?

What am I gonna do?

I mean,
what am I gonna do?

Just listen. Everything's
gonna be all right,
you hear?

You're not gonna
do anything.

I'm gonna
arrange it all.

First of all,
we have to tell
Malcolm.

No.

Yes.

Want some licorice?Ok.

We'll have
to get you
an abortion.

It's the only
solution.

Are you
listening?

Yes.

And we're gonna
have to tell
Michael.

Why don't we
just take out an ad
in the Boston globe?

Michael: Ok. Now,
this is the plan.

We go to the address
at 21 grover street

tomorrow morning
at 8:00 sharp.

It's sort of
a hotel.

We go to the
registration desk

across from
the main lobby
and ask for Marge.

Marge is gonna
take US to some place

in south Boston
or something like that.

Apparently it changes
all the time.

From there,
I'm not exactly sure
what's gonna happen.

I'd never buy shoes
like that.

Abby: You're not sure
what's gonna happen?

Don't you know anything
about who's gonna do it?

It's hard enough
finding anyone
at all.

I want to go in there.

Now, I'm assured
by this guy at school

that this Marge person
knows exactly what
she's doing.

Could you lend me
$5.00?

Are you at all
interested in this?

Me? Sure.

Gee, I don't know,
Michael.

Either do I,
to say the least.

All right, wise guys.

Perhaps someone
would suggest
an alternative plan.

He's got you there.
Hello, frog.

Abby: If you ask me,
I don't think it's
in the best of taste

for you to be
quite so cheerful.

I'm not being cheerful,
just practical.

There's nothing we can do,

if I don't mind
the arrangements,
you shouldn't.

Boy, this place
is really depressing.

Can we go
to a nice restaurant?

Consider it the last wish
of the condemned, ok?

Abby: Where we gonna
stay tonight, anyway?

Michael:
This guy's apartment.
He won't be there.

Abby: Does anyone want to
go out and get roaring drunk?

Ok. It was just
a suggestion.

Abby: Are you sleeping?

Muffy: Obviously not.

You sure you
want to go through
with all this?

Not such a big deal.

Tomorrow
it'll all be over.

Malcolm wants to marry you.

You could get married.
It's not too late.

No.

Thanks, anyway.

I can't seem to get away
with anything.

Everything seems
to happen to me

instead of for me.

It's like
I have no control.

This time,

just once,

I want some control
over my life.

And having a baby.

This is my decision.

My own.

It's what I want.

It's not
a complicated operation.

I mean, it's like having
your tonsils out, right?

Doesn't take very long.

So simple.

Oh, shit.

I'll be right back.

Michael:
Where you going?

I'll just
be a minute.

Hey, look,
we don't have time.

Dear god...

Oh, skip it.

Michael: Come on.
We're gonna be late.

Here we are.

Malcolm: It doesn't
look so bad, muff.

It's not so good,
either.

Oh, Jesus.

I guess
this is the lobby.

Michael: Uh, we'd like
to speak with Marge,
please.

You Mr. Brooks?

Yes.

I'm Marge.

You're Marge?

That's right.

I'll be right with youse.
Come on in.

Is it cold out?

It's not too bad.

Which one
is the one?

Youse all ain't
goin' with her.

What do you mean?

Oh, please.

No way.

Well, maybe one.

I'll go with her.

Are you sure?

I don't know.

No.

Who's got
the money?

I have it.

I think I'd rather
give it to you
after it's over.

Look, you want this
done or not, Sonny?

Are you the one
who's gonna do it?

No. But i'm
gonna take youse
to the one who is,

and I can't do that
unless I get paid
first.

Give him the money,
Malcolm.

Wait a minute.
What guarantee
do we have

that everything's
gonna be ok?

None. What do
you kids want?

Think you're
going on a cruise

or buying
a hi-fi set?

You know
what I mean?

Just give him
the money.

I don't know.

There's nothing else
we can do.

Yes, there is.
We can go elsewhere.

Look,
now you can either

give me the money
and we go,

or you don't
give me the money,
and you go home.

Malcolm.

Malcolm, please.

Here. You can count it
if you like.

Don't worry.

Abby: Marge is an unusual name
for a man, isn't it?

Yep.

Ok, fall out.

Ok, this is
where I leave you.

You go straight
in that building,
somebody will meet you,

and they'll take it
from there. So long.

Aren't you
going with US?

No. My job
is finished now.

Now look--now you look!

And I don't want
any trouble from you.

I think we want
our money back.

It doesn't
work that way.
Understand?

And I'm losing my Patience
with you kids.

Abby, come on.
We've come this far.

Are you sure, muffy?

There's nothing else
we can do.

Now listen to her. We come
highly recommended, right?

Now don't worry.That's true.

I got to go.
So long.

Hello!

Don't worry, muffy.

Are you kidding?

Hello!

Is anybody here?

Oh, god. Abby.

Don't cry, muffy.

Everything's
going to be ok.

Hello!

Hello!

Is anybody up there?

Coming.

Coming.
Hold your horses.

What is this,
a sister act?

Ha ha ha ha
ha ha.

Marge said
we could both come.

Oh, he did, huh?
Well, you can't.

I want one of ya.
That's the deal.

Which of ya is it?

Me.

You come with me
and you wait here.

I have to go with her,
or else she won't be able
to go through with it.

Suit yourself.

No. Wait. Please take me.

Muffy, no.

If you get up there
and you don't want to go
through with it, get out.

Promise me.Ok, I promise.

If you feel
the slightest bit
uncomfortable, get out.

We'll figure
something else
out, really.

Don't be afraid
not to go through with it.

Ok.

Come on.

[Knock knock]

Man: Come in.

Hiya!

Hi.

Sit down. Relax.
You want a cup of tea?

No, thank you.

Aw, come on.
Have some.

You'll feel better.

It's a very special blend.
Lapsang tea, from the orient.

Come on.
It'll warm you up.

I know you're nervous.

They make you
go through a whole lot

of cloak and dagger
stuff, don't they?

I'm really sorry
about that,

but they have to do that

to protect themselves
and me.

I understand.

Can I have
a little smile?

Hey, don't.
Don't be afraid.

Who's gonna do it?

Me. My name's frank.
What's yours?

Muffy.

Muffy. That's great.

Now listen, muffy.
I want you to know
a few things, ok?

First of all,
I'm a medical student.

I've had a lot of practice
performing operations.

And abortion is a very simple
and painless operation.

Come on, smile. Can I have
a little smile, please?

Oh, that's nice.

You look really pretty
when you smile,
you know that?

No.

You do.

Now, I want you to know
a little bit more
about me, too.

I, uh, I do this
partially for the money,

that's true,

I think that every woman
should have the right
to choose

whether or not
she wants to bring a life
into the world.

I've seen too many
unwanted kids.

Life's tough enough
without starting out
that way, right?

I know exactly
what you mean.

You made a big decision

in deciding
to come here, muffy,

and I want you to know
it's a decision
I respect, ok?

Do you feel
a little better?

Yeah, I do.

Do you? You feel
well enough to start?

Ok.

Ok.

Go behind those curtains
and remove your clothes.

You'll find
a little robe there.

You can put it on
over your blouse, ok?

I'll take that.

Boy, this isn't the way
I thought it would be.

I mean,
you're not at all
like I expected.

Oh? What did you expect?

A witch with
a coat hanger,

like that lady
who brought me
up here.

I know. I know
what you mean.

My contacts leave a lot
to be desired.

But you know that woman
who showed you up here--

Mrs. H, we call her--

she's really a doll.

I know you might find that
hard to believe,

but she is.

Would you just lie down
on that table?

Ok.

Will I be able
to have children
after this?

Sure, muff.

All we're gonna do is give you
what's called a dnc,

which means we're gonna
scrape out the uterus

and cause you to miscarry.

You're not even
gonna feel anything.

Just put your legs
up there, will you?

Just like that.
That's good.

Ok.

Now...

Don't be nervous, ok?

Just relax.

Are you in school, muff?

Yes. In boarding school.

Is this your last year?

Yes.

Are you gonna
go to college?

If I get in anywhere.

Oh, don't worry.
You will.

Where have you applied?

Smith
and mount holyoke.

Mount holyoke, huh?
My fiancée goes there.

Oh. Does she like it?

Um...

Well...

I don't think she's
too crazy about it,
muffy.

All through, muffy.

It's all over.

Is that all?

That's all.

It didn't hurt much.

I told you it wouldn't.
I wouldn't lie to you.

Now, I want you to take it
real easy for a while, ok?

You're gonna be
bleeding a little,
so don't be alarmed.

Also, you're gonna
have some pain.

Not too much, but you may
be a little uncomfortable,

so I want you to take
one of these pills
every 4 hours, ok,

starting right now.

Here you go.

Here you go, muff.

You feel all right?

Feel well enough
to get dressed?

Because if you don't,
take your time.

There's no rush.

No. I feel all right.

I do.

You're a lovely girl,
muffy.

Aw...

[Footsteps
approaching]

Muffy?

Yeah.

How was it?

Wonderful.

Hey, isn't there a dictionary
anywhere around this hole?

Aren't you supposed
to have gym this period?

Abby.

Muffy.

Turn over.
You're burning up.

I know.

There's some--
some blood.

Oh, my god. I'm gonna
go get the nurse.

No. Wait.

Wait for what?

Abby,
I'm frightened.

Now listen, we don't
have to tell her anything.

I'm gonna go
get the nurse.
No.

Yes.

All right,
where's the fire?

Little fever, huh?

Did you
have your flu shot
like I told you to?

You girls.
Open your mouth.

Abby, don't you
have a class now?

Yes.

You better
get going, then.

Go on.
She'll survive.

Please
let me stay.

No. Now off you go
to class. Now.

Ok.

Ok.
But I have to find
my dictionary first.

You hurry up
about it.

Well, well, well.

We have a nice
little temperature.

Good. The infirmary
can use a little
business.

Come on. I'll
help you up, dear.

We can get
your things later.
Abby, enough is enough.

Aah!

It must've just started.

Abigail,
what's going on here?
Hand me a towel.

Jesus.

This child
is hemorrhaging.

How did this happen?

Well, she--no.

You promised.

Do you know something
about this?

No. I mean--

no.

Muffy!

Muff?

Muff, it's me.

Hi!

I brought you some flowers,

but the nurse said you can't
have any in your room.

It's a rule or something.

Anyway, it was just
a geranium plant

'cause that's all
the florist had left.

And geraniums stink,
as you know.

How are you feeling?

Shitty.

Oh, well, you'll be
outta here in a few days.

Thank god.

I'm trying to get you
a record player
in the meantime.

Parents?
What?

My parents?

Oh, parents! I thought
you said "planets."

They're coming.
They're on their way.

Bullshit.
Nobody can find them.

Malcolm?

He'll be here tomorrow.

He's coming down with Michael
from St. ambrose.

Did you tell him?

Michael told him.

And did he laugh?

No, you idiot,
he didn't laugh.

You're so crazy sometimes.

Why should he laugh?

Well, you gotta admit,
it's funny.

If you made a bet
on this happening,

you could give someone
100-to-one odds
against it, right?

Yeah. Well, I'd just like
to get my hands on dear,
understanding frank.

You don't have permission
to be in here.

Well, the nurse didn't
say anything about me.

She said something
about my flowers.

Yes, well, the nurse,
unfortunately, is senile,
so out.

Oh, please?

Oh, he doesn't mean it.
He's just kidding.

I certainly do mean it.

You can come back
tomorrow afternoon,

but right now, skedaddle.

Can't be all that good,
either.

Ok. I'll see you later.

Ok.
Bye.

Bye.

How are you feeling,
muffy?

Shit--rotten.

How much more time
have we got?

About...i don't know.
He said this afternoon.

I guess 1:30's
this afternoon, isn't it?

It's funny. My mother
was sick here once.

What's so funny about that?

Nothing, except here
I am again, that's all.

Is she gonna
be all right?

Sure, but she looks
like hell now.

Boy, she has
some luck, huh?

Hey, you didn't tell anybody
why you came here today,
did you?

No.

Hey, Malcolm,
where are you going?

Let him go.
Look, I threw up
when I told him.

Well, there's
one thing I know.

What's that?

It's not supposed
to be like this.

What's it supposed
to be like?

I don't know.

But not like this.

It's right
around the corner here
on the left.

Yeah?

I thought that was
supposed to be for muffy.

Well, the best presents
are the ones
you like yourself.

It's tomorrow afternoon.

Please don't.

Please...don't.

Give me your hand, Abby.

No. No!

No! No!Give me your hand.

Hey, Abbs,
you're gonna be late.

I'll be right there.

Do you need any help?

No, thanks.

Do you know if the tassel
goes on the left or the right?

I don't know.

I'd better go.
My mother's getting antsy.

I'll save you a place.

Thanks.

Abbs, promise me
we'll see each other.

I'll write, I really will.

I know people say they will
and they don't,
but I really will.

You and muffy,
you were the only ones
in this creepy place

that I ever wanted
to see again.

Let's grow up
and have children
and varicose veins

and still
see each other.
Promise me?

I promise.

I'm scared, aren't you?

Yeah.

I never thought
I'd miss this place.

Now, all of a sudden,

I don't want anybody
to have my room
or use my locker.

Isn't that crazy?

No.

Oh, Abbs,
you're the greatest.

Oh, I hope I don't
look back on this place

as the best years
of my life.

You sure you don't know
if the tassel goes
on the right?

I'm sure.

Do you want to be alone?

Yeah.

Just for a minute.

Ok. I'll save you a place.

The tassel goes on the left,
not the right.

Thanks, Laura.

You're going to be late.

I'm coming.

It's after 11:30.

Give me a demerit.
Send it to my college.

Maybe you can open up
an account for me there.

I was just telling you
it's after 11:30.

That's all.

You're right.

Thank you.

I'll be right there.

[Tinkling]