An American Story (1992) - full transcript
World War II has ended and many soldiers return to their houses and families. But three of them find themselves with big problems when they arrive at their home village.
For some of US,
all things
but for the war
had become a dim memory.
Home was some distant star
no closer
than the sun or moon.
Each man dreamed
of that distant star,
of all things
familiar and good,
of fighting
no more battles.
But for some of US,
maybe all of US,
going home would only mean
the end of one war
and the beginning
of another.
We fought together,
but we'd go home alone.
♪ Till then
♪ di-oh
♪ my darling,
please wait for me ♪
♪ till then
♪ di-oh
♪ no matter when
it will be ♪
♪ one day
♪ I know I'll be
back again ♪
♪ please wait
♪ till then
♪ our dreams
♪ di-oh
♪ will live
though we are apart ♪
♪ our love
♪ di-oh
♪ I know will keep
in our hearts ♪
♪ till then
♪ when all the world
will be free ♪
♪ please wait
♪ for me
♪ although there are oceans
we must cross ♪
♪ and mountains
that we must climb ♪
♪ I know every game
must have a loss ♪
♪ so pray that our loss
♪ is nothing but time
♪ till then
♪ di-oh
♪ let's dream
of what there will be ♪
♪ till then
♪ di-oh
♪ we'll call
on each memory ♪
♪ till then
♪ when I will
hold you again ♪
♪ please wait
♪ till then
Well?
It's exactly the same.
There are a few touches
here and there,
but I wanted it to be
just the way
you remembered.
You must be exhausted.
I had 14 days to get home.
By ship,
then by train...
They were in
a much bigger rush
to get US to the war
than from it.
I was so proud
when you stepped off
that train, George.
The uniform, you know...
It does the trick.
Maybe I should
wear it in court.
You'd never lose a case.
I'll bet you're dying
for a Martini,
very, very dry.
Actually, I lost
my taste for gin.
Martinis,
they're not too big
an item on the front.
Whose idea was the parade?
Oh, our beloved
mayor cantrell.
In cahoots with
your father, I think.
Nothing's too good
for major George Meade.
Cantrell.
He was always happiest
waving at people
from a moving car.
Where's the rest
of this picture?
The rest of what?
This picture.
There were five other men.
I only wanted
to look at you.
I wish you
hadn't done that.
I'm sorry, George.
I--i didn't know.
Ah, it's all right.
It's all right.
Forget it.
Well, I've been
waiting four years
to get out of this uniform.
So I'm going to, uh...
I'll be right back down.
Thanks a lot.
Take care.
[Speaking Spanish]
[Speaking Spanish]
Mi hijo.
Hey!
Hey!
Welcome home.
How do I look?
You're fine.
Fine?
He means beautiful.
Now, look,
don't everybody
crowd in on him.
He might be shy
'cause of his wound.
He might
not say much.
Act like
y'all don't notice.
Want US to go?
No! I want him
to see friends.
[Horn blows]
Must you, Andy?
It's my way
of saying
welcome home.
Give me
that thing.
Sam, daddy's going
to be real surprised
seeing you all
grown up.
Just give him
a big hug,
and everything
will be fine.
Hey, hey!
I made it!
I'm back.
What are y'all
standing there for?
Come on, get me up.
Come on!
Well, they were wrong
about the shy part.
Mama.
Jesse, boy.
Welcome home, Jesse.
There she is.
You look prettier
than the day I left.
Who's this big fella?
Huh?
Where's my little boy?
Now?
I'm home.
They were beautiful.
All of the ruined cities--
salerno,
remagen,
all of France.
The world is
an unbelievable place,
even with the bombs
dropping.
You have fought bravely,
and now you're at home
where you belong.
You've made me
very proud.
I thought about you, papa,
every day.
You'd have loved to
have seen what I've seen,
be where I've been.
This is
a very small place
compared to
what's out there.
You will marry Maria.
If she didn't
forget me.
Oh, she didn't.
Going to be
different now, papa.
I can feel it.
I fought side by side
with men who wouldn't
give me the time of day
as a civilian.
They depended on me,
and I depended on them.
This war, it brought
everybody together.
You'll see.
There is no more war.
Oh...
I haven't slept
in three days.
Good night, papa.
Well, you're
doing fine, Jesse.
And you're still going
to be feeling confused.
Might be some minor
speech difficulty,
but overall,
everything looks good.
When will he walk?
It's hard to tell
with head wounds.
Brain has to relearn
the messages it sends
to the legs.
Takes time.
Keep doing
those exercises.
Slowly but surely,
you'll start to walk again.
How you holding up,
Becky?
Me?
Yes, you.
I'm fine.
I'm a little tired.
A big adjustment,
returning from war.
Harder for some
than others.
My daughter's been
working with some veterans.
If you need anything,
even just to talk.
That's why she's here,
o.K.?
Hey, George.
Jesse.
I heard you were back.
Hello, Becky.
Hope.
Welcome home,
George.
We made it, huh?
Or we're dead
and nobody told US.
How you feeling?
I'm fine, just fine.
You hear
Johnny dynamite's back?
Bronze star and all.
Everybody will be
at the blue moon
Thursday night.
Well, so will I.
In fact, there's
something I want to
talk to you about.
We better
get going, Jesse.
So, I'll see you
Thursday night?
2100?
You can be there
at 2100.
I'm going to be
there at 9:00.
Good to see you.
You look great.
Bye-bye.
Will he be all right?
It's hard to tell
with head wounds.
My father thinks
he'll be o.K.
It'll take some time.
He still likes to
talk, doesn't he?
We always said
he was vaccinated with
a phonograph needle.
I'm happy to
see you, George.
I'm busy, though.
I just need a minute.
It's important.
All right, come on.
Last time I saw you,
you were planting
that garden.
You didn't see me.
I was on a bus
on my way to basic.
Well, that garden's
long gone.
They tell me you're
doing good work here.
Well, after staring
at the ceiling
for a couple
of months,
I realized
that wasn't going
to bring Tim back.
I went back
to school.
Got my degree--
psychology.
Figured there'd
be plenty to do
when the boys
got back.
So daddy takes care
of their bodies,
and I try to
take care of
their minds.
So far, he has
a much higher
success rate.
I just wanted you to know
how sorry I am about Tim.
I was going
to write a letter.
That's all right,
George.
I really didn't know
what to say.
Widows aren't
much in fashion
this time of year.
After all,
we won the war,
the boys
are coming home...
Guess it's much easier
to watch a parade.
People don't really
want to think about
all those wives
and children
that don't feel
much like celebrating.
Well, I'm sorry, hope.
If there's anything
I can do...
Why'd you come here,
George?
What is it you
wanted to say to me?
I was with Tim
when he died.
It happened right
in front of me.
It was so--so quick.
I held him, and...
And he died in my arms.
Did he suffer, George?
Tell me the truth.
I don't think he
really felt anything.
Except maybe cold.
He told me he was cold.
And then he asked me
to come see you,
tell you that
he loved you.
He wanted you to know
that he was thinking
of you when he died.
Human beings have
an amazing capacity
for pain, George.
Did you know that?
Good thing, because
just about when you think
you've had
all you can take,
there's plenty more
to come.
I'm sorry, hope.
I have to say
I was surprised
when you and Tim became
friends during the war.
You were such opposites
in school.
Tim was going to
change the world.
And you were
going to own it.
That seems like
such a long time ago.
He was a good man,
hope...
And a good friend.
But you don't need me
to tell you that.
Like I said,
anything I can do...
George.
Did Tim say anything else?
He looked up at me...
And he said, "don't look
so scared, George.
"You're dead already
anyway.
"You've been dead
ever since law school.
You just don't know it."
[Loud machine noise]
Well, you got
this place humming,
that's for sure.
I've never seen it
so organized.
Brand-new lathe.
Yeah, well, we did
pretty good last year.
It seemed like a smart idea
to put some money back
into the business.
I would have asked
you about it, Jess.
Well, I wasn't exactly
right around the corner,
now, was I?
Are you all right?
Fine. I don't know why
I expected it
to be the same.
Four years is a long time.
That's what I hear.
I'm sorry, Jess.
I didn't mean for it--
that's all right.
What's this?
Uh, we got a contract
with the air force base.
Steering linkage
for the c-4.
I can see that, but
what's this 5% over cost
on every 5,000? Hmm?
The mayor.
It comes out of our profits.
You mean cantrell's
taking a payoff from US
on a military contract?
He brought US the job,
Jesse.
I can't believe it.
Whew.
It's one thing
to pay him off
to stay in business.
I mean, everybody's
used to that,
but to skim...
On a war contract.
He's got this whole system
worked out.
Yeah? I'll bet he does.
Business tax,
he calls it.
Everything else
has a luxury tax.
Everybody's got to
live with it.
It ain't just US.
It's just not right!
Someday I'm going to
tax him up...
I'll tax him...
Right where it hurts.
I'll say this much
for Truman.
He doesn't trust
the Russians
the way Roosevelt did.
He understands
they're up to no good.
They were good enough
to fight with US.
Stalin's going to try
to take over the world.
Our next war will be
with the Russians.
U.n. Says there won't be
any more wars.
You believe that,
George?
No.
Of course not.
It's human nature.
As long as there are
things people want
they can't have,
there will be war.
Here's to this war
being over.
Hear, hear.
George...
How does it feel working
with your father again?
Like being back in battle,
only quieter.
George is
the best lawyer
I've got.
I'm not sure
I like you
stealing him, Tom.
Obviously I've missed
something here.
We've been talking
while you've been gone
about the future
of this county.
About your future, too.
I have the highest regard
for your father, George,
as you know,
and we both agree you
possess certain qualities,
qualities that
should not go to waste.
Such as?
I think you're a man
of vision, George.
You have an ability
to see the big picture.
You're a born leader.
Election's
coming up next month.
Tom's offering you
a spot on the ticket.
County trustee.
Bill Carlson is retiring
on my advice.
We need a fighting man
the veteran can look up to.
We need new blood.
I'm not a fighting man
anymore, Tom.
My biggest ambition now
is to lay down a lot.
It's hard to look up to
somebody taking a nap.
I'm serious.
This has been
in the cards for you.
You can't deny your destiny.
It's not that I don't
appreciate the offer,
because I do.
I don't need an answer now.
You think about it.
Talk it over with that
beautiful wife of yours.
But remember this, George.
Your time has come.
It's been going on
since we were kids.
Ever since that greedy
been mayor,
he's bled this county dry.
He gets a piece
of every contract.
You bid
to build the road,
put cantrell
down for 10%.
He taxes every
bottle of beer I open
and every case of liquor.
I pay him on every
gallon of gas I sell.
Cantrell keeps clean.
Sheriff mcmillan
does his collecting.
If you don't like it,
mcmillan will
bust your head.
We didn't take this
from the Nazis.
Why come home and
take it from cantrell?
That's right.
Right, George?
You're right,
sure.
But it's been going
on a long time.
People
are used to it.
Besides, cantrell
has his good points
as far as the town's
concerned.
He brings a lot of work
into this county.
He takes care of
the people that
take care of him.
Whose side are you on?
Since when
are there sides?
Since now.
An election's coming up.
Nobody serious
has opposed cantrell.
We're going to change that.
We'll form our own party,
not democrat,
not republican,
but veteran.
We'll get the vets together
and run for--for...
You all right?
It's nothing.
Like I'm saying,
we'll run...Jack for sheriff,
bill for county clerk,
and Johnny for trustee.
Straight bet
right down the line!
A Mexican trustee?
I think you've
gone crazy, Jesse.
Don't laugh.
It's the best chance
you've got.
It's the best chance
we all got.
How about it, George?
Oh, it's...
It's a good idea,
all right.
But it will never work.
Cantrell's too powerful
and experienced.
I'm sorry to hear
you say that.
I was hoping you'd
head up the ticket for US--
run for mayor.
We'd be unbeatable
with you, George.
Wait a minute.
Now,
I'm flattered, Jess.
I really am.
I wish I could help.
I'm talking about
helping the county.
You're assuming
the county wants
to be helped.
People are
as fed up as we are.
Maybe they don't know it,
but they are.
This is
a good fairy tale,
but it's late,
and I've got to go.
You won't make history.
You're going
to miss out.
The only thing
I want to make
is money.
Hasta luego,
amigos.
Last chance, George.
I'm sorry, Jess.
I'm just not interested.
This is what we've been
waiting for, George.
This is your chance.
You have greatness in you.
I see it.
Your father sees it.
Tom cantrell sees it.
You're the only one
who doesn't.
I don't know
what's right anymore.
That's what you have
me for, darling.
Do you remember
hope Tyler's husband?
The poor man
who got killed.
Yes, of course.
I was with him
when he died.
He said something to me,
something I can't
get out of my head.
He told me that--
shh...
You've got to stop
dwelling on the past, George.
It's time to put
the war behind you.
Think about US.
Think about our future.
Oh. Run with cantrell,
darling.
This is only the beginning.
All we have to do
is take that first leap.
We're ready for this.
We deserve this.
[Applause]
[Singing in Spanish]
[Applause]
[Whistling]
[Whistling]
Look at Juan.
Like a big kid,
huh?
That's one big kid
I'll take on my side
every time.
Best dynamite man
I've ever seen.
He's the only dynamite man
you've ever seen.
Who dialed
your number?
Andy, let's hear that
bunker routine again.
Achtung, der luftwaffe!
Ze Americans dropped
bombs left und right.
The fuhrer says
damage is slight.
However, as a result
of zis mission...
One of our cities
is missing.
Hey, George,
remember the night
your sleeping bag
caught on fire?
I thought my feet were
finally getting warm.
Nobody told me
I was on fire.
It's a beautiful wedding,
isn't it?
Yes, it is.
Sometimes it's
a good idea to get away
from the men.
They like to talk
amongst themselves.
As long as they
stay out of trouble.
I wouldn't worry
about that.
They talk big,
but they're
essentially harmless,
like a school of fish
or a flock of birds.
Miss Meade, can I
ask you a question,
personally?
It's Barbara.
Certainly.
Does George act funny
since he's been back?
I'm sorry,
I don't mean funny,
not like that.
What I mean is,
do you think he...
Is there anything
different about him?
For instance,
Jesse, well,
he doesn't know how
to talk to me anymore,
and I don't know if...
My husband
is perfectly fine.
Excuse me.
So we're going to register
for the election next week.
Can't believe how much
paperwork there is.
I envy you, Jesse.
You're a man who
knows what he wants.
How about you, George?
What do you want?
I wish I knew.
Well, you missed
your chance to run with US.
We got a new candidate
for mayor.
Who?
Me.
I'm trying real hard,
hope.
I swear I am.
Oh, and I don't know
if I'm doing right
or not.
Jesse?
He gets these spells.
He can't remember how
to do certain things,
and sometimes
his voice gets stuck.
He just goes wild.
He scares the boy
half to death.
Me, too.
Does he try to hurt you?
No, no.
Mostly,
he just hurts himself.
Jesse's going to
get better.
It's just a matter of time.
He wants me
to quit working.
What do you think?
Hope, I love
running that factory.
And I had a real knack
for it, too.
We're making
more money now
than we did
when Jesse ran it.
Have you tried talking
to him about it?
It's not as easy
as it used to be.
He doesn't want to
talk anymore.
He didn't even talk
to me about running
for mayor.
He just decided himself.
It's crazy.
Have you thought
about encouraging him?
He's doing something
he believes in.
Encourage him?
Hope, he's got
no chance.
Let's face it.
No, the whole thing
is just plain foolish.
Not to him.
I better get on back.
Thanks for the time,
though.
I wish I had the answers
for you, Becky.
It's just nice to have
someone listen.
Becky.
You're taking care
of a lot things right now.
Don't forget
to take care of yourself.
You ever want somebody
to talk to, day or night,
you know where I am.
You take such good care
of everybody, hope.
Who takes care of you?
Hello, sir.
What can I do for you, son?
My name is Juan Medina.
I came about the job--
office clerk.
I see. Well,
have a seat there,
Mr. Medina.
Thank you.
Oh, um,
these are
my discharge papers.
Honorable discharge.
Mm-hmm.
They really give you
the bronze star, son?
Yes, sir.
It's right here.
[Telephone rings]
So they did.
Well, uh,
what would you say
your qualifications are,
Mr. Medina?
Very hard worker.
Do you know
anything about
the insurance business?
I learn fast.
I learned very fast
in the service.
I had special training.
What kind of
special training?
Munitions, explosives...
Ahem.
We don't have occasion
to blow up too much
around here,
but if we do,
we'll know who to call.
The ad says no experience.
I'm sorry, son,
I just don't think
it's going to work out.
Look, uh, I tell you what.
If you really
need a job, son,
I can always use
somebody to sweep up
around here.
If you want to,
come on back
just before closing.
I'd like to help him out,
but what could he do here?
I was thinking
maybe file clerk.
Tom cantrell's nephew
is our file clerk.
You mean the kid that
sits around all day.
You're good lawyer, George,
but since when did
you get so friendly
with the Mexicans?
Dad, I trust my life
with this man.
We'd be lucky
to have him.
Don't be naive, George.
He doesn't have
the right qualifications.
You understand
what I'm saying.
Loud and clear.
Your heart's
in the right place, son.
Bring me the malinson file,
would you?
I'm sorry, Johnny.
That's o.K.
I understand, George.
Well, it's, you know,
there's just no openings.
It's a small company.
It's o.K.
Thanks for trying.
You know,
if things are tight,
I can spot you some dough.
Oh, no,
nothing like that.
I'm fine.
No, thank you.
Just keep it in mind.
You don't have to
worry about me.
You ever miss the war,
George?
The truth?
A little bit, yeah.
Me, too.
George.
You better hurry.
We're going to be late.
Late for what?
Oh, don't tease me,
darling.
The carlsons'
dinner party.
It's been
on the calendar
for weeks.
I don't feel well.
You'll feel better
after a nice dinner.
I'm not in the mood
for a party.
You haven't been
in the mood
for anything.
Snap out of it.
The war's over.
How easy.
Why didn't I think of that?
Don't be sarcastic.
It doesn't suit you.
I don't want to sit
at another party
where everyone wants
to hear war stories
I'm trying to forget.
Very unlike a candidate.
Well, I'm not yet, am I?
Ronny bishop
called today from
the ovington observer.
Wanted to know if
the rumor was true
you're running
with cantrell.
Must be a slow news day.
I told him you were.
You did what?
It doesn't hurt
to get a little press.
Let cantrell know people
are interested in you.
Barbara, I haven't told
anyone I'm running.
I haven't even
told anyone
I'm strolling yet.
My advice to you
is you call
Ronny what's-his-name
and tell him
you're mistaken.
George, you know
you're going to run.
You're going to
run because it's
the right thing to do.
You better shave, darling.
Oil's o.K.
That will be 2.35, sir.
Here.
Thank you.
[Dog barking]
Oh, there are the neighbors!
Hello, Mr. Jones!
Yes, I do have the most
beautiful house on the block.
Thank you.
My car?
It's just something
I use to get around in.
A car like this,
it's just wasted
on rich people.
You know why?
No. Why?
'Cause everything
they have is this good,
so they don't
even notice anymore.
I haven't even got
a chair as comfortable
as these seats.
I'd always notice.
Someday we'll have
a car like this.
You know?
A car you can't
hear coming
from five blocks away?
I know.
Hmm.
I'll be right back.
Howdy.
Fill it.
[Ding]
You're that kid
they gave that
bronze star to, right?
That's right.
So I'm getting my...
My gas pumped
by a genuine hero.
I like that.
[Ding]
Andy!
It's going to be
85 cents.
Where's Andy?
Oh, he had to
leave early.
And left you in charge?
Uh-huh.
It will be 85 cents
for the gas.
You didn't
need much.
Whoa, son. Relax.
You're working too hard.
You know what
the problem is
with your people
from Mexico way?
They think the world
owes them a living.
That's why I like to see
a hard-working Mexican
like you.
You talk good.
These others don't
talk good English.
Maybe someday I'll
give you lessons.
O.k., son,
where is it?
What do you mean?
What?
Envelope with
my name on it.
Where did
your boss leave it?
I don't know
what you're
talking about.
Andy will be back
in the morning.
I really do need
that 85 cents for gas.
You got it
all wrong, son.
I don't pay you,
you pay me.
Now, where's
my envelope?
I haven't seen
any envelope.
Maybe, uh,
just maybe...
You put it in
your own pocket.
Look, I told you
I don't know what
you're talking about.
[Crashing]
Juan!
Juan!
Stop it!
Stop it!
Damn it!
How could he
do this to US?
He's turned his back
on the whole town.
People like George stick
with their own kind.
This doesn't change
anything.
Still going to run.
Kick their butts.
Who's going to vote
for US with George
running against US?
I don't want to
hear that.
Our flyers
are printed.
We'll hit
the streets
tomorrow.
I got to lock up.
Anybody finds out
I let you in here--
[wheels rolling]
You can count me in,
amigos.
Well, you got to give
the poor fella credit.
He's got the courage
of his convictions.
Veterans party,
bipartisan--
the man has
some imagination,
don't you think, George?
Now, what do you suppose
he's after?
What do you think
he really wants
out of all this?
I think he wants to
do the right thing.
Now I really
feel sorry for him.
Cigar, George?
No, thank you.
Is there anything else
we need to go over?
No, it's all clear.
Aw, cheer up, son.
There's nothing
to it.
We'll make a couple
of speeches,
show up at some
fund-raising dinners
for our beloved
governor,
and play 18 holes
on election day.
It's that easy.
It's a blessing.
People know
what's right.
Who also know
what's wrong.
Afraid I don't
follow you there, George.
You know what
I'm talking about,
don't you?
No idea.
You paid a visit
to Juan Medina yesterday.
Ended up beating him
half to death.
Little misunderstanding
over a payoff, I'm told.
What's this all about,
sheriff?
Beats me. I never
touched him.
George...
George, I think
this election
is getting you
all jittery.
Why don't you relax
for a few days?
I've got everything
under control.
Yeah, you
treat this county
like it's your own
little dictatorship, Tom.
How long do you think
people are going to
stand for that?
I wouldn't be so
quick to judge, son.
Remember, we're all
in this together.
Besides, everybody's
a little tainted
one way or another.
[Door closes]
Born politician.
What do you want me
to do about meadows?
Do? Why?
What is there to do?
Let the boy run.
As a matter of fact,
I'll give him the chance
to go head to head
with me--public debate.
That's going to look
like you take him
serious.
No. It's going to
make it look like
I have nothing to fear.
Besides,
as I understand it,
this boy left
half his brain
on some battlefield.
We'll get him in front
of the people
and let them see exactly
what kind of man
wants to be their mayor.
Just set it down.
Thank you. Ahem.
You think this is
all a big joke,
don't you?
I never
said that.
You don't have to.
It's all over
your face
every time
you look at me.
I'm just afraid
you're taking on
too much too soon.
You're worrying
I'll make a fool
of myself.
Don't start this again.
If you feel
this is what you
have to do,
then do it.
Well, maybe it would
be a little easier
if I thought
you were behind me.
I am. I don't understand
what you want.
Yes, you do.
I'm going to
ask you again.
Quit the factory
and work with me
on this.
I need you.
I can get men
to run that factory
just as good as you.
Oh, is that right?
Why don't you get
those men to run
this election?
Because I need
my wife.
How do you think
it looks when you're
never around?
People don't think
you take it serious.
This has nothing to do
with the election.
You don't like me
running that factory
by myself.
You want me
waiting on you.
That's a lie.
How come
you didn't need me
when you cooked up
your veterans party?
You didn't bother
talking to me about it.
You made me feel
I wasn't part of things
anymore,
and that hurt, Jesse.
That hurt?
Well, how do you
think it feels
to come home
and see your wife
doing your job
for you?
That you don't
fit in no more?
That was
in your mind.
I never tried
to make you feel
that way.
I wanted you
to come back
to the factory.
I didn't tell you
to run for mayor.
Is that right?
Well I'll tell you what...
I'll drop out
of the race,
take the factory
over again,
and you could
stay home with Sam.
How would that be?
I'll call Juan
right now.
Jesse!
You don't want that,
do you?
You don't want me
back there.
It's not like that.
It's just that
I've been running it
for a long time,
and I've done good
with it, real good.
I never dreamed
I could run a business.
It feels good
to use my brain.
Maybe it makes me
like myself more,
but it doesn't mean
I love you less.
You can't ask me
to go back
to the way
things were, Jesse.
Well, you better
figure out
what's more
important to you--
your job
or your husband.
How come I'm the one
that has to decide?
Maybe you better
figure out what's
more important to you--
the election
or your wife.
I'll be the one
to give out jobs,
take bids
on county work.
I'll make
a very good salary--
move out of this place,
get a house in town.
What do you think, huh?
What about your job?
I'll quit.
This campaign
is my job now.
I thought
you'd be happy.
For once we get
a chance
to take things
into our own hands,
to make the rules
ourselves.
What are
you thinking?
About my sister...
The one in California.
Her husband works
on a farm.
They are safe there.
There are a lot of jobs.
There's nothing
to be afraid of.
She has a lemon tree
right outside her window.
I'm not going to
run away.
You have to fight
to change things.
I'm afraid.
Of what?
Of what they will
do to you.
I say it's time
for people to stop
having to live
in fear
of our sheriff
and his deputies.
It's time for people
to stop paying
bribes
just to keep their
businesses open.
I say it's time
for a change.
That time is now.
Ladies and gentlemen,
I have patiently listened
while this young man
has made his wild
accusations...
But I ask you,
and I ask my opponent,
where is the proof?
There is no proof
because
sheriff mcmillan
will bust your head
if anybody
comes forward.
Sheriff mcmillan
has made the streets
of our town safe, safe,
and this is the thanks
he gets for it.
Safe unless
you refuse to pay
Tom cantrell,
safe unless
you're a Mexican,
safe unless
he don't like
your skin color.
All right, I think
you've made yourself
abundantly clear
as to how you feel
about what is wrong.
I'd like to hear
how you'd make it right.
Mr. Meadows,
what are your plans
for running our city?
Well, I got a lot
of ideas. I...
How do you propose
to raise money
for the sewage system
that we need?
There's a lot
of ways to raise
that money.
Well, we're all ears.
Well, I haven't
firmed up...
I haven't firmed up
the best way yet.
I haven't
firmed that up yet.
I see.
Well, what about
property taxes?
I can guarantee
the people of this town
don't want to pay
one more penny
in property taxes,
but they want
a brand-new grade school.
How do you propose
to solve that problem?
No, the answers
are not in those papers,
Mr. Meadows.
You don't know
the answers.
Being the mayor is more
than pointing fingers
and making accusations.
You have got to have
the experience...
And you have got to
have the brains.
All I need
is a fair chance.
That's more than
you've given US...
But I can run
this town.
I can
run this town...
Just as...
Just...
As...
Just as...
You were saying?
Just...
[Thunder]
[Telephone rings]
[Ring]
Hello?
George,
it's Becky meadows.
What is it?
What's the matter?
It's Jesse.
I need help, George.
He's got a gun.
I'll be right there.
Ooh!
Jesse, please,
come inside.
Get away from me!
Just leave me alone!
Jesse, I want
to talk to you
for a minute.
Jesse.
I just want everything
to go away.
No!
Jesse!
If you
hurt yourself,
you'll hurt
Becky and Sam, too.
Is that
what you want?
I want you to leave.
I don't want nothing
from you.
It's none
of your business, hope.
Why can't everybody
just leave me alone?
Just leave me alone!
What about Becky?
Have you talked
to her?
Talk to Becky.
You get out of...
Get out of here,
George.
You're a traitor.
I don't want nothing to do
with you, George Meade.
Give me that gun, Jesse.
I just as soon
shoot you
as shoot myself,
George.
Now, you get away!
Give me that gun.
George, please.
Come on, Jess,
you can't let it
end this way.
Let me do it,
George.
I just want to
do it.
I can't stand it
anymore, George.
I...i can't
think straight.
I can't
talk straight.
I don't want to
be like this.
I want everything
to be the way it
used to be, George.
I want it all.
I want it all back.
We all want it back.
You think I don't?
You think I wouldn't
trade everything
just to have
my life back
the way it was before?
I don't know
where I belong
anymore, George.
I don't know what
I'm supposed to do now.
I don't...
I don't know.
I don't know.
Neither do I.
Nobody
understands...
What all it was,
George.
That's why we got to
stick together.
We can't quit.
Then why did you
turn your back
on US, George?
We needed you.
That should have
been you up there
today, not me.
Why didn't you
stick with US? Why?
George, don't you
know that's where
you belong?
I'm sorry, Jess.
I just got lost.
I swear.
I'm just lost,
that's all.
This is the part
the politicians
never tell you about.
They're big on glory
and victory and medals,
all so we don't mind
when some of the boys
don't come home
in one piece
or don't come home
at all.
There's an even better
medal for that one.
It'd be nice if it
was that simple, hope.
But things are a little
more complicated than that.
Believe me when
you see what I see,
it is that simple.
I guess everybody
needs something
to believe in.
What do you believe in,
George, Tom cantrell?
What's that
supposed to mean?
How can you throw in
with cantrell?
You know who he is.
He's no better
or worse than any
other politician.
I don't believe you're
that naive or cynical.
Cantrell knows people
in this town
look up to you.
He's using you
to give him the one thing
he cannot buy--
respectability.
I never asked anybody
to look up to me.
You want to know
what I believe in?
Maybe I don't believe
in anything anymore.
Anymore?
When did you ever
believe in anything?
You've always been
your father's
errand boy.
Now you're going to
be cantrell's.
Who the hell are you
to judge me?
You think you got
all the answers.
You know what
your problem is?
You're too idealistic.
It certainly never
was your problem.
I always saw things
for what they were.
You saw things
for what they
should be.
That's
exactly right.
That's why
I married Tim.
Tim was right
about you, George.
You are dead.
[Car starts
and drives away]
George,
are you all right?
I want you
to call Jesse.
Have him get
everybody together
and meet me
at the armory
tomorrow, 11:00.
I want hope Tyler
there, too.
What do I tell him?
Just do it!
You said
I walked out on you,
I let you down.
And you're right.
For a long time
I didn't really know
where I belonged.
Now I know.
If the offer still stands,
I'd like to run
for mayor...
Of the veterans party.
We're only going
to have one chance.
We've got to make it count.
It's going to mean
hitting the streets,
knocking on doors.
It'll take every minute
until the election.
We've got
to take this message
to everybody
in this county.
If everyone who's
complaining about cantrell
votes for US,
he won't have a chance.
If they don't,
they deserve him.
Was it the war
that made you
so self-destructive
or just
plain stupid?
I'm sorry
it embarrasses you.
You have
embarrassed yourself.
You could've ridden
cantrell's coattails
right to the capitol.
No, you threw in
with losers
to shake everybody up.
They won
the war for you.
I am warning
you George.
You're taking on
the wrong man.
If you lose,
and you will,
your name won't be
worth a good spit.
You'll have to start
over elsewhere.
Tom cantrell has
a very long reach.
Tom cantrell's time
is up.
He'd better face it,
and you
better face it.
There's something else
you should keep in mind.
You've got less
than 30 days
to mount a campaign.
You'll need a miracle,
and that doesn't
come cheap.
You'll have to look to
a lot of people
for favors.
If the miracle
should happen,
don't think
they won't collect.
You've got to give
to get in this business.
In a year,
or maybe two,
you'll be doing
the same things
you hate cantrell
for now.
It's the nature
of the beast, George.
Have I failed you
in some way?
Is this some
childish rebellion?
I know this
may come as a shock,
but this has nothing
to do with you.
Then tell me
what it does
have to do with.
You wouldn't understand.
Don't condescend to me,
George.
I don't deserve that.
Barbara, all my life
I've let other people
call the shots.
I can't do it anymore.
I won't.
By other people,
you mean me.
I mean my father,
cantrell,
and yes, I mean you.
So I'm to blame
for you throwing away
your political career?
Would you listen to me?
For once, listen!
It has nothing
to do with blame.
If you want to blame
someone, blame me.
I let it happen.
I never took responsibility.
But now I am.
Now I have to.
What about your
responsibility to me?
I invested
my whole life in you.
You needed someone
to push you.
If it wasn't for me,
you'd have been content
to drift
into nothingness.
You owe me.
Barbara...
I am drifting.
That's all
I've ever done.
Except for
during the war
when I stood
for something.
I fought for what
I believed in,
and it felt good.
Then I came home,
and you wanted
everything to be
just like it was,
like I'd never left.
And I tried.
Really, Barbara,
I tried, but...
But that's
all gone now.
I need to find
something
that I can
believe in again.
Now I have a chance
here to do something
good,
something
that can really
make a difference.
And I'm going
to take it.
Why didn't
you ever tell me
you felt this way?
I tried...
But you were too busy
planning my future
to hear me.
All right, George.
You've
made yourself clear.
You've chosen your course.
I won't stand
in your way.
But I want you to know
I have no intention
of letting you
drag me down with you.
I won't be married
to a loser.
There's a price
for everything, George.
Maybe you should
think about that.
If we fought
for democracy
on the battlefields of Europe
and in the pacific,
why can't we have it
in our own town?
Because Tom cantrell
won't let US,
that's why.
On election day
I want you to say no
to the cantrell machine.
We must have the courage
to believe in ourselves,
to believe that we can
make a difference,
that our vote
does count.
And believe this...
Every vote
for the veterans party
is a vote for yourselves!
Gotten a little rusty,
Henry.
Yeah, well, I don't get
to play much anymore.
Things busy
at the office?
It's been
a good year.
Glad to hear it.
You know, uh...
I like to think
I've had a hand
in helping
your firm along.
Yes, Tom,
you've been good to US.
Happy to do it.
Happy to do it.
Of course,
I don't think
I have to tell you
how disappointed
I am in George.
No, you don't.
He has said some
very distressing
things--
slanderous, really.
I was hoping
you might have
a word with him,
see if he would
tone down his rhetoric.
Don't tell me
you're getting nervous.
A good politician's
always nervous.
Of course, George is
going to lose,
but there's no point
in putting ideas
in people's heads,
make them restless.
What makes you so sure
he's going to lose?
The Mexican.
The Mexican.
Nobody's going to vote
for the veterans party
while a Mexican's
on the ballot.
Not in this town.
Not any town
I know.
Am I wrong?
No.
You're exactly right.
Henry, why don't you
tell George
that he's made his point?
After the election's over,
I'd be more than willing
to sit down and discuss
his beloved veterans,
see what I can do.
He'll come out of this
smelling like a Rose.
But for now,
he's got to stop
slinging mud
and behave
like a gentleman.
I can't get through
to him anymore than you.
He's changed.
He's his own man now.
Well, you're
his father, Henry.
I'm depending on you.
What's it say?
If the election
were held today,
it would still
be cantrell by 2 to 1.
How about the phones?
Lots of support,
lots of good lucks,
but very few
committing either way.
Well, time
for more radio.
[Knock on door]
You might as well know,
I'm supposed to be here
to call you off.
Cantrell.
He wants to make a deal.
Stop exposing him
for the thief he is,
he'll take care
of the veterans
after the election.
I'm sure
if you press him,
he'll even suspend
the business licensing
requirements,
maybe even some taxes.
You mean the bribes.
All this is assuming
that I lose.
It's a pretty safe
assumption.
You know that.
But I don't understand.
Everywhere we go,
people cheer US.
It'll take more than
a few hundred veterans
to turn the tide.
It'll take more than
a few hundred veterans
will he keep his word?
He will.
I don't know.
What do you think, dad?
The truth?
A few weeks ago
I would've told you
to make the deal,
but everything's
changing, George.
The town's changed.
You've changed.
I don't know what
surprises me more--
that you made
a believer of me
or of yourself.
Either way
it scares me.
I'm too old
to have everything
shifting,
but even I can see
cantrell's
got to go.
He's out of control.
He's gone too far.
We were friends,
you know...
Ever since
we were children.
That's
a long time ago.
George, you
really want to win
this election?
Of course I do.
You know I do.
Are you willing to do
what it takes--
be ruthless?
Well, I don't under--
what are you
talking about?
You've got to
take Juan Medina
off the ballot.
Nobody's going to
vote for a Mexican.
The town's
not ready for it.
It's that simple.
I won't.
He's one of US.
Is he worth
losing the election for?
We're not talking about
right or wrong here.
We're talking
about reality.
We're talking
about politics.
With him, you lose.
Without him,
you've got a chance.
It's up to you,
George.
I can't believe
what I'm hearing.
Let's take a look
at this.
Take a look at what?
Johnny won
a bronze star.
The man's a hero.
We know
Johnny's the best.
We're talking about
something bigger.
We're talking
about the color
of a man's skin.
I don't like it either,
but not many people
will vote for US
if Juan's on the ticket.
Does anybody think
I'm wrong?
George is right.
We have to think
about this.
We're taking a chance.
I thought that was
the whole point.
We're here
to make changes.
You can't change
people's attitudes
overnight.
How will
those attitudes change?
We have
to take a chance.
We're already trying
the impossible.
So what's
best for the town,
that we lose
on principle
or we compromise
and win?
That's not the point!
If that's not it,
what is?
The point is
we're supposed
to be equals.
We're supposed
to stand for something
better than cantrell.
But what good
will that do US
if we lose?
Walking out on US isn't
going to make it go away.
I can't sit here
and be part of this.
If we compromise this
today,
what will we compromise
tomorrow?
[Door closes]
[Knock on door]
Johnny...
Why don't you come in?
No, George. I can
only stay a minute.
Look, John--
the thing is, George,
I hate to do this
to you now,
but I'll have to
drop out of the race.
Wait a minute.
What are you
talking about?
Well...
I'm thinking about it.
Maybe I don't really
want to stay here...
This place, this town.
Maybe it's time
to move on.
I'm sorry, George.
I didn't mean
to let you down.
Now, look, Johnny.
I don't know
what you've heard,
but you're not
off the ticket.
There's been
a lot of talk--
it doesn't matter.
I won't cost US
the election,
and I'm not
going to wait
to be kicked out.
Either way, I lose.
It's a relief,
isn't it, George?
It's not that way,
Johnny.
Yeah, well...
Why don't you
tell me someday
what way it is,
o.K., amigo?
If we win,
we'll make things
change, Johnny.
I promise that.
Congratulations, George.
You're
a real politician now.
There's nothing here
for US anymore.
No future.
How can I
have children here,
in a place where a man
can't get ahead?
You have to live
in your own world.
This is where
you come from,
this is where
you should stay.
Out there
is only pain for you.
I can't.
Papa, I can't.
I'm not like you.
The army showed me
what's out there,
what a man can be.
I have seen
what's out there.
Here you have
your family,
people
who understand you.
Papa...
I think I'm going
to take Maria
to California.
We'll live
like people there,
not like animals.
What makes you believe
it'll be any different
in California?
It has to be.
No, it doesn't.
Stay for
a little longer, Juan.
I just got you back.
O.k., papa.
O.k.
You seen the polls?
Oh, yeah.
And we're catching up.
Some even have US
slightly ahead.
It's amazing
what the sacrifice
of a human being can do,
isn't it?
You want a drink?
Tough week for you,
George.
It's lonely at the top.
Here's to election day,
a mere...
A mere eight hours away.
I guess I've been
pretty tough on you,
George.
Somebody had to be.
I wasn't up to it.
I don't know.
This whole thing
with Juan...
I knew you were
in a tough spot,
and I know there was
no easy answer,
but it all
just makes me feel...
Corrupted.
Welcome to the club.
You know, I can still
see you in that garden.
I don't know
how many times
I've thought about that.
It was just a glance...
But it stayed with me
a long time.
Get some sleep, George.
You, too.
You bet. Uh-huh.
Mrs. Ferguson
needs a ride in.
She can't drive.
We want
to get her in
so she can vote.
Could you do that?
Oh, that'd be--
that'd be great.
We really
appreciate it.
This is all happening
because of you.
Nobody
believed in you.
You went ahead
and did it anyway.
You're a hero,
Jesse.
Don't forget that.
Becky...
Um...
Um, I know I never
said this to you,
but...
When I got shot,
they told me I might
lose my memories,
so all I did
was think about you
and Sam and...
Everything
we've been through.
I tried to remember
every little thing
in case I never
remembered it again.
It made me realize...
We--
it made me realize
how lucky I am.
And...
You got me through it...
Whether
you know it or not.
And don't think
I don't know
you ran this factory
better than I could.
You kept
everything going.
And if
anybody's a hero...
It's you.
So far...
It's veterans party...
Yes...
2 to 1!
They're saying it's 2 to 1,
veterans.
Is it slowing down any?
How's it looking?
They're still lining up
around the block to vote.
Well, I think
it's about time
the polls were closed,
don't you?
Deputize everybody
you can.
Meet me
at the post office.
Let's go.
These polls are
officially closed!
Everybody out!
What are you doing?
I'm warning everybody
to leave these premises.
The polls are closed.
Like hell! These people
came here to vote--
damn it, Curtis!
Yeah?
What?
All right.
Jack just got shot
at the post office.
Mcmillan's
got an army there.
They closed the polls.
Hey, Billy,
you got the keys
to the armory?
Let's go.
Hold on.
Stay out of this, George!
You stay back!
There's a man hurt
in there.
He needs help.
I don't want to shoot you,
George, but I will.
We're taking
what we came for
and getting out of here.
Ow! My back!
O.k.
It'll be all right.
O.k., let's him get up.
What are you
waiting for?
Get his legs!
We're losing some blood.
Let's go!
Get his legs!
All right.
Come on!
Tell cantrell
he's gone too far
this time, mcmillan.
It's all your fault!
You should've
kept your mouth shut
and minded
your own business!
What the hell
we do now, George?
Lets go.
Don't move in
until I tell you.
We don't want anybody
to get hurt.
All right.
George,
what's going on?
They took
the ballot boxes.
We're
getting them back.
With guns?
If necessary, yes.
George,
we can't start a war.
Slow down a minute.
We can't really
call the police.
Call the governor.
You're playing into
cantrell's hands.
The governor's
on cantrell's side.
We're out of time.
They'll
count the votes,
he'll declare
himself the winner.
We can't let this happen,
people are going to get hurt.
Why does it always have
to come down to a war?
You want to know why,
hope?
Because some people
can't be reasoned with.
Who are you talking about,
you or cantrell?
You better put
the governor on right now.
Tell him
it's Tom cantrell,
and it's an emergency!
How many of them
are out there?
Every 10 minutes,
another farmer
with a shotgun
pulls up.
Earl!
Yeah, you better believe
it's important.
I've got renegade veterans
with guns
surrounding my jail.
They're trying to steal
the ballot boxes,
that's what.
I don't know how many.
There's 100, maybe 200.
I need some help,
and I need it fast.
Yes, Earl, I have men,
but I don't have enough--
yeah.
Yes, all right.
You just hurry,
understand?
Someday we'll see
how fast I move
when your back's
against the wall.
Cover the window.
What'd he say?
He's going to mobilize
the national guard.
We'll have to sit tight
and wait.
Let's do what
we came here to do.
Open it up!
Tom, this is George Meade!
We want
two of your deputies
to come down, unarmed,
with the ballot boxes,
set them down
in the middle of the street.
We'll do an official count,
then we can all go home.
Now, if I don't see
that ballot box
come through that door
in one minute,
we're going to open fire.
You got 60 seconds.
20!
You're out of your mind,
George,
we're the law here,
not you.
The national guard's
on its way--
who fired that shot?
Jesse!
Jesse!
Hold your fire!
Hold your fire!
Hold your fire!
Hold your fire!
Is anybody hit?
This is crazy!
Give them what they want!
They're going to kill US!
Shut up!
Now, keep calm!
They'll never
get in this building.
We're safe here
till help comes.
You heard them.
The national guard
will shoot first,
ask questions later.
We'll go to prison,
if they don't
kill US first.
We got to get
those ballot boxes
before the guard comes.
If we can do that,
we can tell
our side of the story.
The whole town's
our witness.
So what are we
going to do George?
The brick's too solid.
We can't shoot through.
They can stay in there
all night.
We'll just have
to blow it.
Ready.
We turned our backs
on you, Johnny,
let you walk away.
Nobody
would blame you
for staying away.
It's different
when it's war.
Yeah, but
it shouldn't be.
I'm not doing this
for you.
I'm doing this
to get rid of cantrell.
I'm doing it because
this is my town, too.
Put your head down,
amigo.
[Coughing]
Where is he?
Where's cantrell?
Gone.
Where is he?
I swear!
He ran downstairs
and out back
after the explosion.
Out.
Get out!
[Cheering]
We didn't have
any choice.
Cantrell?
Got away.
Why don't I feel
like we won?
Maybe because
we are tainted.
That's what
cantrell said.
What?
Nothing.
George?
Was it worth it?
I hope so.
Congratulations,
Mr. Mayor.
all things
but for the war
had become a dim memory.
Home was some distant star
no closer
than the sun or moon.
Each man dreamed
of that distant star,
of all things
familiar and good,
of fighting
no more battles.
But for some of US,
maybe all of US,
going home would only mean
the end of one war
and the beginning
of another.
We fought together,
but we'd go home alone.
♪ Till then
♪ di-oh
♪ my darling,
please wait for me ♪
♪ till then
♪ di-oh
♪ no matter when
it will be ♪
♪ one day
♪ I know I'll be
back again ♪
♪ please wait
♪ till then
♪ our dreams
♪ di-oh
♪ will live
though we are apart ♪
♪ our love
♪ di-oh
♪ I know will keep
in our hearts ♪
♪ till then
♪ when all the world
will be free ♪
♪ please wait
♪ for me
♪ although there are oceans
we must cross ♪
♪ and mountains
that we must climb ♪
♪ I know every game
must have a loss ♪
♪ so pray that our loss
♪ is nothing but time
♪ till then
♪ di-oh
♪ let's dream
of what there will be ♪
♪ till then
♪ di-oh
♪ we'll call
on each memory ♪
♪ till then
♪ when I will
hold you again ♪
♪ please wait
♪ till then
Well?
It's exactly the same.
There are a few touches
here and there,
but I wanted it to be
just the way
you remembered.
You must be exhausted.
I had 14 days to get home.
By ship,
then by train...
They were in
a much bigger rush
to get US to the war
than from it.
I was so proud
when you stepped off
that train, George.
The uniform, you know...
It does the trick.
Maybe I should
wear it in court.
You'd never lose a case.
I'll bet you're dying
for a Martini,
very, very dry.
Actually, I lost
my taste for gin.
Martinis,
they're not too big
an item on the front.
Whose idea was the parade?
Oh, our beloved
mayor cantrell.
In cahoots with
your father, I think.
Nothing's too good
for major George Meade.
Cantrell.
He was always happiest
waving at people
from a moving car.
Where's the rest
of this picture?
The rest of what?
This picture.
There were five other men.
I only wanted
to look at you.
I wish you
hadn't done that.
I'm sorry, George.
I--i didn't know.
Ah, it's all right.
It's all right.
Forget it.
Well, I've been
waiting four years
to get out of this uniform.
So I'm going to, uh...
I'll be right back down.
Thanks a lot.
Take care.
[Speaking Spanish]
[Speaking Spanish]
Mi hijo.
Hey!
Hey!
Welcome home.
How do I look?
You're fine.
Fine?
He means beautiful.
Now, look,
don't everybody
crowd in on him.
He might be shy
'cause of his wound.
He might
not say much.
Act like
y'all don't notice.
Want US to go?
No! I want him
to see friends.
[Horn blows]
Must you, Andy?
It's my way
of saying
welcome home.
Give me
that thing.
Sam, daddy's going
to be real surprised
seeing you all
grown up.
Just give him
a big hug,
and everything
will be fine.
Hey, hey!
I made it!
I'm back.
What are y'all
standing there for?
Come on, get me up.
Come on!
Well, they were wrong
about the shy part.
Mama.
Jesse, boy.
Welcome home, Jesse.
There she is.
You look prettier
than the day I left.
Who's this big fella?
Huh?
Where's my little boy?
Now?
I'm home.
They were beautiful.
All of the ruined cities--
salerno,
remagen,
all of France.
The world is
an unbelievable place,
even with the bombs
dropping.
You have fought bravely,
and now you're at home
where you belong.
You've made me
very proud.
I thought about you, papa,
every day.
You'd have loved to
have seen what I've seen,
be where I've been.
This is
a very small place
compared to
what's out there.
You will marry Maria.
If she didn't
forget me.
Oh, she didn't.
Going to be
different now, papa.
I can feel it.
I fought side by side
with men who wouldn't
give me the time of day
as a civilian.
They depended on me,
and I depended on them.
This war, it brought
everybody together.
You'll see.
There is no more war.
Oh...
I haven't slept
in three days.
Good night, papa.
Well, you're
doing fine, Jesse.
And you're still going
to be feeling confused.
Might be some minor
speech difficulty,
but overall,
everything looks good.
When will he walk?
It's hard to tell
with head wounds.
Brain has to relearn
the messages it sends
to the legs.
Takes time.
Keep doing
those exercises.
Slowly but surely,
you'll start to walk again.
How you holding up,
Becky?
Me?
Yes, you.
I'm fine.
I'm a little tired.
A big adjustment,
returning from war.
Harder for some
than others.
My daughter's been
working with some veterans.
If you need anything,
even just to talk.
That's why she's here,
o.K.?
Hey, George.
Jesse.
I heard you were back.
Hello, Becky.
Hope.
Welcome home,
George.
We made it, huh?
Or we're dead
and nobody told US.
How you feeling?
I'm fine, just fine.
You hear
Johnny dynamite's back?
Bronze star and all.
Everybody will be
at the blue moon
Thursday night.
Well, so will I.
In fact, there's
something I want to
talk to you about.
We better
get going, Jesse.
So, I'll see you
Thursday night?
2100?
You can be there
at 2100.
I'm going to be
there at 9:00.
Good to see you.
You look great.
Bye-bye.
Will he be all right?
It's hard to tell
with head wounds.
My father thinks
he'll be o.K.
It'll take some time.
He still likes to
talk, doesn't he?
We always said
he was vaccinated with
a phonograph needle.
I'm happy to
see you, George.
I'm busy, though.
I just need a minute.
It's important.
All right, come on.
Last time I saw you,
you were planting
that garden.
You didn't see me.
I was on a bus
on my way to basic.
Well, that garden's
long gone.
They tell me you're
doing good work here.
Well, after staring
at the ceiling
for a couple
of months,
I realized
that wasn't going
to bring Tim back.
I went back
to school.
Got my degree--
psychology.
Figured there'd
be plenty to do
when the boys
got back.
So daddy takes care
of their bodies,
and I try to
take care of
their minds.
So far, he has
a much higher
success rate.
I just wanted you to know
how sorry I am about Tim.
I was going
to write a letter.
That's all right,
George.
I really didn't know
what to say.
Widows aren't
much in fashion
this time of year.
After all,
we won the war,
the boys
are coming home...
Guess it's much easier
to watch a parade.
People don't really
want to think about
all those wives
and children
that don't feel
much like celebrating.
Well, I'm sorry, hope.
If there's anything
I can do...
Why'd you come here,
George?
What is it you
wanted to say to me?
I was with Tim
when he died.
It happened right
in front of me.
It was so--so quick.
I held him, and...
And he died in my arms.
Did he suffer, George?
Tell me the truth.
I don't think he
really felt anything.
Except maybe cold.
He told me he was cold.
And then he asked me
to come see you,
tell you that
he loved you.
He wanted you to know
that he was thinking
of you when he died.
Human beings have
an amazing capacity
for pain, George.
Did you know that?
Good thing, because
just about when you think
you've had
all you can take,
there's plenty more
to come.
I'm sorry, hope.
I have to say
I was surprised
when you and Tim became
friends during the war.
You were such opposites
in school.
Tim was going to
change the world.
And you were
going to own it.
That seems like
such a long time ago.
He was a good man,
hope...
And a good friend.
But you don't need me
to tell you that.
Like I said,
anything I can do...
George.
Did Tim say anything else?
He looked up at me...
And he said, "don't look
so scared, George.
"You're dead already
anyway.
"You've been dead
ever since law school.
You just don't know it."
[Loud machine noise]
Well, you got
this place humming,
that's for sure.
I've never seen it
so organized.
Brand-new lathe.
Yeah, well, we did
pretty good last year.
It seemed like a smart idea
to put some money back
into the business.
I would have asked
you about it, Jess.
Well, I wasn't exactly
right around the corner,
now, was I?
Are you all right?
Fine. I don't know why
I expected it
to be the same.
Four years is a long time.
That's what I hear.
I'm sorry, Jess.
I didn't mean for it--
that's all right.
What's this?
Uh, we got a contract
with the air force base.
Steering linkage
for the c-4.
I can see that, but
what's this 5% over cost
on every 5,000? Hmm?
The mayor.
It comes out of our profits.
You mean cantrell's
taking a payoff from US
on a military contract?
He brought US the job,
Jesse.
I can't believe it.
Whew.
It's one thing
to pay him off
to stay in business.
I mean, everybody's
used to that,
but to skim...
On a war contract.
He's got this whole system
worked out.
Yeah? I'll bet he does.
Business tax,
he calls it.
Everything else
has a luxury tax.
Everybody's got to
live with it.
It ain't just US.
It's just not right!
Someday I'm going to
tax him up...
I'll tax him...
Right where it hurts.
I'll say this much
for Truman.
He doesn't trust
the Russians
the way Roosevelt did.
He understands
they're up to no good.
They were good enough
to fight with US.
Stalin's going to try
to take over the world.
Our next war will be
with the Russians.
U.n. Says there won't be
any more wars.
You believe that,
George?
No.
Of course not.
It's human nature.
As long as there are
things people want
they can't have,
there will be war.
Here's to this war
being over.
Hear, hear.
George...
How does it feel working
with your father again?
Like being back in battle,
only quieter.
George is
the best lawyer
I've got.
I'm not sure
I like you
stealing him, Tom.
Obviously I've missed
something here.
We've been talking
while you've been gone
about the future
of this county.
About your future, too.
I have the highest regard
for your father, George,
as you know,
and we both agree you
possess certain qualities,
qualities that
should not go to waste.
Such as?
I think you're a man
of vision, George.
You have an ability
to see the big picture.
You're a born leader.
Election's
coming up next month.
Tom's offering you
a spot on the ticket.
County trustee.
Bill Carlson is retiring
on my advice.
We need a fighting man
the veteran can look up to.
We need new blood.
I'm not a fighting man
anymore, Tom.
My biggest ambition now
is to lay down a lot.
It's hard to look up to
somebody taking a nap.
I'm serious.
This has been
in the cards for you.
You can't deny your destiny.
It's not that I don't
appreciate the offer,
because I do.
I don't need an answer now.
You think about it.
Talk it over with that
beautiful wife of yours.
But remember this, George.
Your time has come.
It's been going on
since we were kids.
Ever since that greedy
been mayor,
he's bled this county dry.
He gets a piece
of every contract.
You bid
to build the road,
put cantrell
down for 10%.
He taxes every
bottle of beer I open
and every case of liquor.
I pay him on every
gallon of gas I sell.
Cantrell keeps clean.
Sheriff mcmillan
does his collecting.
If you don't like it,
mcmillan will
bust your head.
We didn't take this
from the Nazis.
Why come home and
take it from cantrell?
That's right.
Right, George?
You're right,
sure.
But it's been going
on a long time.
People
are used to it.
Besides, cantrell
has his good points
as far as the town's
concerned.
He brings a lot of work
into this county.
He takes care of
the people that
take care of him.
Whose side are you on?
Since when
are there sides?
Since now.
An election's coming up.
Nobody serious
has opposed cantrell.
We're going to change that.
We'll form our own party,
not democrat,
not republican,
but veteran.
We'll get the vets together
and run for--for...
You all right?
It's nothing.
Like I'm saying,
we'll run...Jack for sheriff,
bill for county clerk,
and Johnny for trustee.
Straight bet
right down the line!
A Mexican trustee?
I think you've
gone crazy, Jesse.
Don't laugh.
It's the best chance
you've got.
It's the best chance
we all got.
How about it, George?
Oh, it's...
It's a good idea,
all right.
But it will never work.
Cantrell's too powerful
and experienced.
I'm sorry to hear
you say that.
I was hoping you'd
head up the ticket for US--
run for mayor.
We'd be unbeatable
with you, George.
Wait a minute.
Now,
I'm flattered, Jess.
I really am.
I wish I could help.
I'm talking about
helping the county.
You're assuming
the county wants
to be helped.
People are
as fed up as we are.
Maybe they don't know it,
but they are.
This is
a good fairy tale,
but it's late,
and I've got to go.
You won't make history.
You're going
to miss out.
The only thing
I want to make
is money.
Hasta luego,
amigos.
Last chance, George.
I'm sorry, Jess.
I'm just not interested.
This is what we've been
waiting for, George.
This is your chance.
You have greatness in you.
I see it.
Your father sees it.
Tom cantrell sees it.
You're the only one
who doesn't.
I don't know
what's right anymore.
That's what you have
me for, darling.
Do you remember
hope Tyler's husband?
The poor man
who got killed.
Yes, of course.
I was with him
when he died.
He said something to me,
something I can't
get out of my head.
He told me that--
shh...
You've got to stop
dwelling on the past, George.
It's time to put
the war behind you.
Think about US.
Think about our future.
Oh. Run with cantrell,
darling.
This is only the beginning.
All we have to do
is take that first leap.
We're ready for this.
We deserve this.
[Applause]
[Singing in Spanish]
[Applause]
[Whistling]
[Whistling]
Look at Juan.
Like a big kid,
huh?
That's one big kid
I'll take on my side
every time.
Best dynamite man
I've ever seen.
He's the only dynamite man
you've ever seen.
Who dialed
your number?
Andy, let's hear that
bunker routine again.
Achtung, der luftwaffe!
Ze Americans dropped
bombs left und right.
The fuhrer says
damage is slight.
However, as a result
of zis mission...
One of our cities
is missing.
Hey, George,
remember the night
your sleeping bag
caught on fire?
I thought my feet were
finally getting warm.
Nobody told me
I was on fire.
It's a beautiful wedding,
isn't it?
Yes, it is.
Sometimes it's
a good idea to get away
from the men.
They like to talk
amongst themselves.
As long as they
stay out of trouble.
I wouldn't worry
about that.
They talk big,
but they're
essentially harmless,
like a school of fish
or a flock of birds.
Miss Meade, can I
ask you a question,
personally?
It's Barbara.
Certainly.
Does George act funny
since he's been back?
I'm sorry,
I don't mean funny,
not like that.
What I mean is,
do you think he...
Is there anything
different about him?
For instance,
Jesse, well,
he doesn't know how
to talk to me anymore,
and I don't know if...
My husband
is perfectly fine.
Excuse me.
So we're going to register
for the election next week.
Can't believe how much
paperwork there is.
I envy you, Jesse.
You're a man who
knows what he wants.
How about you, George?
What do you want?
I wish I knew.
Well, you missed
your chance to run with US.
We got a new candidate
for mayor.
Who?
Me.
I'm trying real hard,
hope.
I swear I am.
Oh, and I don't know
if I'm doing right
or not.
Jesse?
He gets these spells.
He can't remember how
to do certain things,
and sometimes
his voice gets stuck.
He just goes wild.
He scares the boy
half to death.
Me, too.
Does he try to hurt you?
No, no.
Mostly,
he just hurts himself.
Jesse's going to
get better.
It's just a matter of time.
He wants me
to quit working.
What do you think?
Hope, I love
running that factory.
And I had a real knack
for it, too.
We're making
more money now
than we did
when Jesse ran it.
Have you tried talking
to him about it?
It's not as easy
as it used to be.
He doesn't want to
talk anymore.
He didn't even talk
to me about running
for mayor.
He just decided himself.
It's crazy.
Have you thought
about encouraging him?
He's doing something
he believes in.
Encourage him?
Hope, he's got
no chance.
Let's face it.
No, the whole thing
is just plain foolish.
Not to him.
I better get on back.
Thanks for the time,
though.
I wish I had the answers
for you, Becky.
It's just nice to have
someone listen.
Becky.
You're taking care
of a lot things right now.
Don't forget
to take care of yourself.
You ever want somebody
to talk to, day or night,
you know where I am.
You take such good care
of everybody, hope.
Who takes care of you?
Hello, sir.
What can I do for you, son?
My name is Juan Medina.
I came about the job--
office clerk.
I see. Well,
have a seat there,
Mr. Medina.
Thank you.
Oh, um,
these are
my discharge papers.
Honorable discharge.
Mm-hmm.
They really give you
the bronze star, son?
Yes, sir.
It's right here.
[Telephone rings]
So they did.
Well, uh,
what would you say
your qualifications are,
Mr. Medina?
Very hard worker.
Do you know
anything about
the insurance business?
I learn fast.
I learned very fast
in the service.
I had special training.
What kind of
special training?
Munitions, explosives...
Ahem.
We don't have occasion
to blow up too much
around here,
but if we do,
we'll know who to call.
The ad says no experience.
I'm sorry, son,
I just don't think
it's going to work out.
Look, uh, I tell you what.
If you really
need a job, son,
I can always use
somebody to sweep up
around here.
If you want to,
come on back
just before closing.
I'd like to help him out,
but what could he do here?
I was thinking
maybe file clerk.
Tom cantrell's nephew
is our file clerk.
You mean the kid that
sits around all day.
You're good lawyer, George,
but since when did
you get so friendly
with the Mexicans?
Dad, I trust my life
with this man.
We'd be lucky
to have him.
Don't be naive, George.
He doesn't have
the right qualifications.
You understand
what I'm saying.
Loud and clear.
Your heart's
in the right place, son.
Bring me the malinson file,
would you?
I'm sorry, Johnny.
That's o.K.
I understand, George.
Well, it's, you know,
there's just no openings.
It's a small company.
It's o.K.
Thanks for trying.
You know,
if things are tight,
I can spot you some dough.
Oh, no,
nothing like that.
I'm fine.
No, thank you.
Just keep it in mind.
You don't have to
worry about me.
You ever miss the war,
George?
The truth?
A little bit, yeah.
Me, too.
George.
You better hurry.
We're going to be late.
Late for what?
Oh, don't tease me,
darling.
The carlsons'
dinner party.
It's been
on the calendar
for weeks.
I don't feel well.
You'll feel better
after a nice dinner.
I'm not in the mood
for a party.
You haven't been
in the mood
for anything.
Snap out of it.
The war's over.
How easy.
Why didn't I think of that?
Don't be sarcastic.
It doesn't suit you.
I don't want to sit
at another party
where everyone wants
to hear war stories
I'm trying to forget.
Very unlike a candidate.
Well, I'm not yet, am I?
Ronny bishop
called today from
the ovington observer.
Wanted to know if
the rumor was true
you're running
with cantrell.
Must be a slow news day.
I told him you were.
You did what?
It doesn't hurt
to get a little press.
Let cantrell know people
are interested in you.
Barbara, I haven't told
anyone I'm running.
I haven't even
told anyone
I'm strolling yet.
My advice to you
is you call
Ronny what's-his-name
and tell him
you're mistaken.
George, you know
you're going to run.
You're going to
run because it's
the right thing to do.
You better shave, darling.
Oil's o.K.
That will be 2.35, sir.
Here.
Thank you.
[Dog barking]
Oh, there are the neighbors!
Hello, Mr. Jones!
Yes, I do have the most
beautiful house on the block.
Thank you.
My car?
It's just something
I use to get around in.
A car like this,
it's just wasted
on rich people.
You know why?
No. Why?
'Cause everything
they have is this good,
so they don't
even notice anymore.
I haven't even got
a chair as comfortable
as these seats.
I'd always notice.
Someday we'll have
a car like this.
You know?
A car you can't
hear coming
from five blocks away?
I know.
Hmm.
I'll be right back.
Howdy.
Fill it.
[Ding]
You're that kid
they gave that
bronze star to, right?
That's right.
So I'm getting my...
My gas pumped
by a genuine hero.
I like that.
[Ding]
Andy!
It's going to be
85 cents.
Where's Andy?
Oh, he had to
leave early.
And left you in charge?
Uh-huh.
It will be 85 cents
for the gas.
You didn't
need much.
Whoa, son. Relax.
You're working too hard.
You know what
the problem is
with your people
from Mexico way?
They think the world
owes them a living.
That's why I like to see
a hard-working Mexican
like you.
You talk good.
These others don't
talk good English.
Maybe someday I'll
give you lessons.
O.k., son,
where is it?
What do you mean?
What?
Envelope with
my name on it.
Where did
your boss leave it?
I don't know
what you're
talking about.
Andy will be back
in the morning.
I really do need
that 85 cents for gas.
You got it
all wrong, son.
I don't pay you,
you pay me.
Now, where's
my envelope?
I haven't seen
any envelope.
Maybe, uh,
just maybe...
You put it in
your own pocket.
Look, I told you
I don't know what
you're talking about.
[Crashing]
Juan!
Juan!
Stop it!
Stop it!
Damn it!
How could he
do this to US?
He's turned his back
on the whole town.
People like George stick
with their own kind.
This doesn't change
anything.
Still going to run.
Kick their butts.
Who's going to vote
for US with George
running against US?
I don't want to
hear that.
Our flyers
are printed.
We'll hit
the streets
tomorrow.
I got to lock up.
Anybody finds out
I let you in here--
[wheels rolling]
You can count me in,
amigos.
Well, you got to give
the poor fella credit.
He's got the courage
of his convictions.
Veterans party,
bipartisan--
the man has
some imagination,
don't you think, George?
Now, what do you suppose
he's after?
What do you think
he really wants
out of all this?
I think he wants to
do the right thing.
Now I really
feel sorry for him.
Cigar, George?
No, thank you.
Is there anything else
we need to go over?
No, it's all clear.
Aw, cheer up, son.
There's nothing
to it.
We'll make a couple
of speeches,
show up at some
fund-raising dinners
for our beloved
governor,
and play 18 holes
on election day.
It's that easy.
It's a blessing.
People know
what's right.
Who also know
what's wrong.
Afraid I don't
follow you there, George.
You know what
I'm talking about,
don't you?
No idea.
You paid a visit
to Juan Medina yesterday.
Ended up beating him
half to death.
Little misunderstanding
over a payoff, I'm told.
What's this all about,
sheriff?
Beats me. I never
touched him.
George...
George, I think
this election
is getting you
all jittery.
Why don't you relax
for a few days?
I've got everything
under control.
Yeah, you
treat this county
like it's your own
little dictatorship, Tom.
How long do you think
people are going to
stand for that?
I wouldn't be so
quick to judge, son.
Remember, we're all
in this together.
Besides, everybody's
a little tainted
one way or another.
[Door closes]
Born politician.
What do you want me
to do about meadows?
Do? Why?
What is there to do?
Let the boy run.
As a matter of fact,
I'll give him the chance
to go head to head
with me--public debate.
That's going to look
like you take him
serious.
No. It's going to
make it look like
I have nothing to fear.
Besides,
as I understand it,
this boy left
half his brain
on some battlefield.
We'll get him in front
of the people
and let them see exactly
what kind of man
wants to be their mayor.
Just set it down.
Thank you. Ahem.
You think this is
all a big joke,
don't you?
I never
said that.
You don't have to.
It's all over
your face
every time
you look at me.
I'm just afraid
you're taking on
too much too soon.
You're worrying
I'll make a fool
of myself.
Don't start this again.
If you feel
this is what you
have to do,
then do it.
Well, maybe it would
be a little easier
if I thought
you were behind me.
I am. I don't understand
what you want.
Yes, you do.
I'm going to
ask you again.
Quit the factory
and work with me
on this.
I need you.
I can get men
to run that factory
just as good as you.
Oh, is that right?
Why don't you get
those men to run
this election?
Because I need
my wife.
How do you think
it looks when you're
never around?
People don't think
you take it serious.
This has nothing to do
with the election.
You don't like me
running that factory
by myself.
You want me
waiting on you.
That's a lie.
How come
you didn't need me
when you cooked up
your veterans party?
You didn't bother
talking to me about it.
You made me feel
I wasn't part of things
anymore,
and that hurt, Jesse.
That hurt?
Well, how do you
think it feels
to come home
and see your wife
doing your job
for you?
That you don't
fit in no more?
That was
in your mind.
I never tried
to make you feel
that way.
I wanted you
to come back
to the factory.
I didn't tell you
to run for mayor.
Is that right?
Well I'll tell you what...
I'll drop out
of the race,
take the factory
over again,
and you could
stay home with Sam.
How would that be?
I'll call Juan
right now.
Jesse!
You don't want that,
do you?
You don't want me
back there.
It's not like that.
It's just that
I've been running it
for a long time,
and I've done good
with it, real good.
I never dreamed
I could run a business.
It feels good
to use my brain.
Maybe it makes me
like myself more,
but it doesn't mean
I love you less.
You can't ask me
to go back
to the way
things were, Jesse.
Well, you better
figure out
what's more
important to you--
your job
or your husband.
How come I'm the one
that has to decide?
Maybe you better
figure out what's
more important to you--
the election
or your wife.
I'll be the one
to give out jobs,
take bids
on county work.
I'll make
a very good salary--
move out of this place,
get a house in town.
What do you think, huh?
What about your job?
I'll quit.
This campaign
is my job now.
I thought
you'd be happy.
For once we get
a chance
to take things
into our own hands,
to make the rules
ourselves.
What are
you thinking?
About my sister...
The one in California.
Her husband works
on a farm.
They are safe there.
There are a lot of jobs.
There's nothing
to be afraid of.
She has a lemon tree
right outside her window.
I'm not going to
run away.
You have to fight
to change things.
I'm afraid.
Of what?
Of what they will
do to you.
I say it's time
for people to stop
having to live
in fear
of our sheriff
and his deputies.
It's time for people
to stop paying
bribes
just to keep their
businesses open.
I say it's time
for a change.
That time is now.
Ladies and gentlemen,
I have patiently listened
while this young man
has made his wild
accusations...
But I ask you,
and I ask my opponent,
where is the proof?
There is no proof
because
sheriff mcmillan
will bust your head
if anybody
comes forward.
Sheriff mcmillan
has made the streets
of our town safe, safe,
and this is the thanks
he gets for it.
Safe unless
you refuse to pay
Tom cantrell,
safe unless
you're a Mexican,
safe unless
he don't like
your skin color.
All right, I think
you've made yourself
abundantly clear
as to how you feel
about what is wrong.
I'd like to hear
how you'd make it right.
Mr. Meadows,
what are your plans
for running our city?
Well, I got a lot
of ideas. I...
How do you propose
to raise money
for the sewage system
that we need?
There's a lot
of ways to raise
that money.
Well, we're all ears.
Well, I haven't
firmed up...
I haven't firmed up
the best way yet.
I haven't
firmed that up yet.
I see.
Well, what about
property taxes?
I can guarantee
the people of this town
don't want to pay
one more penny
in property taxes,
but they want
a brand-new grade school.
How do you propose
to solve that problem?
No, the answers
are not in those papers,
Mr. Meadows.
You don't know
the answers.
Being the mayor is more
than pointing fingers
and making accusations.
You have got to have
the experience...
And you have got to
have the brains.
All I need
is a fair chance.
That's more than
you've given US...
But I can run
this town.
I can
run this town...
Just as...
Just...
As...
Just as...
You were saying?
Just...
[Thunder]
[Telephone rings]
[Ring]
Hello?
George,
it's Becky meadows.
What is it?
What's the matter?
It's Jesse.
I need help, George.
He's got a gun.
I'll be right there.
Ooh!
Jesse, please,
come inside.
Get away from me!
Just leave me alone!
Jesse, I want
to talk to you
for a minute.
Jesse.
I just want everything
to go away.
No!
Jesse!
If you
hurt yourself,
you'll hurt
Becky and Sam, too.
Is that
what you want?
I want you to leave.
I don't want nothing
from you.
It's none
of your business, hope.
Why can't everybody
just leave me alone?
Just leave me alone!
What about Becky?
Have you talked
to her?
Talk to Becky.
You get out of...
Get out of here,
George.
You're a traitor.
I don't want nothing to do
with you, George Meade.
Give me that gun, Jesse.
I just as soon
shoot you
as shoot myself,
George.
Now, you get away!
Give me that gun.
George, please.
Come on, Jess,
you can't let it
end this way.
Let me do it,
George.
I just want to
do it.
I can't stand it
anymore, George.
I...i can't
think straight.
I can't
talk straight.
I don't want to
be like this.
I want everything
to be the way it
used to be, George.
I want it all.
I want it all back.
We all want it back.
You think I don't?
You think I wouldn't
trade everything
just to have
my life back
the way it was before?
I don't know
where I belong
anymore, George.
I don't know what
I'm supposed to do now.
I don't...
I don't know.
I don't know.
Neither do I.
Nobody
understands...
What all it was,
George.
That's why we got to
stick together.
We can't quit.
Then why did you
turn your back
on US, George?
We needed you.
That should have
been you up there
today, not me.
Why didn't you
stick with US? Why?
George, don't you
know that's where
you belong?
I'm sorry, Jess.
I just got lost.
I swear.
I'm just lost,
that's all.
This is the part
the politicians
never tell you about.
They're big on glory
and victory and medals,
all so we don't mind
when some of the boys
don't come home
in one piece
or don't come home
at all.
There's an even better
medal for that one.
It'd be nice if it
was that simple, hope.
But things are a little
more complicated than that.
Believe me when
you see what I see,
it is that simple.
I guess everybody
needs something
to believe in.
What do you believe in,
George, Tom cantrell?
What's that
supposed to mean?
How can you throw in
with cantrell?
You know who he is.
He's no better
or worse than any
other politician.
I don't believe you're
that naive or cynical.
Cantrell knows people
in this town
look up to you.
He's using you
to give him the one thing
he cannot buy--
respectability.
I never asked anybody
to look up to me.
You want to know
what I believe in?
Maybe I don't believe
in anything anymore.
Anymore?
When did you ever
believe in anything?
You've always been
your father's
errand boy.
Now you're going to
be cantrell's.
Who the hell are you
to judge me?
You think you got
all the answers.
You know what
your problem is?
You're too idealistic.
It certainly never
was your problem.
I always saw things
for what they were.
You saw things
for what they
should be.
That's
exactly right.
That's why
I married Tim.
Tim was right
about you, George.
You are dead.
[Car starts
and drives away]
George,
are you all right?
I want you
to call Jesse.
Have him get
everybody together
and meet me
at the armory
tomorrow, 11:00.
I want hope Tyler
there, too.
What do I tell him?
Just do it!
You said
I walked out on you,
I let you down.
And you're right.
For a long time
I didn't really know
where I belonged.
Now I know.
If the offer still stands,
I'd like to run
for mayor...
Of the veterans party.
We're only going
to have one chance.
We've got to make it count.
It's going to mean
hitting the streets,
knocking on doors.
It'll take every minute
until the election.
We've got
to take this message
to everybody
in this county.
If everyone who's
complaining about cantrell
votes for US,
he won't have a chance.
If they don't,
they deserve him.
Was it the war
that made you
so self-destructive
or just
plain stupid?
I'm sorry
it embarrasses you.
You have
embarrassed yourself.
You could've ridden
cantrell's coattails
right to the capitol.
No, you threw in
with losers
to shake everybody up.
They won
the war for you.
I am warning
you George.
You're taking on
the wrong man.
If you lose,
and you will,
your name won't be
worth a good spit.
You'll have to start
over elsewhere.
Tom cantrell has
a very long reach.
Tom cantrell's time
is up.
He'd better face it,
and you
better face it.
There's something else
you should keep in mind.
You've got less
than 30 days
to mount a campaign.
You'll need a miracle,
and that doesn't
come cheap.
You'll have to look to
a lot of people
for favors.
If the miracle
should happen,
don't think
they won't collect.
You've got to give
to get in this business.
In a year,
or maybe two,
you'll be doing
the same things
you hate cantrell
for now.
It's the nature
of the beast, George.
Have I failed you
in some way?
Is this some
childish rebellion?
I know this
may come as a shock,
but this has nothing
to do with you.
Then tell me
what it does
have to do with.
You wouldn't understand.
Don't condescend to me,
George.
I don't deserve that.
Barbara, all my life
I've let other people
call the shots.
I can't do it anymore.
I won't.
By other people,
you mean me.
I mean my father,
cantrell,
and yes, I mean you.
So I'm to blame
for you throwing away
your political career?
Would you listen to me?
For once, listen!
It has nothing
to do with blame.
If you want to blame
someone, blame me.
I let it happen.
I never took responsibility.
But now I am.
Now I have to.
What about your
responsibility to me?
I invested
my whole life in you.
You needed someone
to push you.
If it wasn't for me,
you'd have been content
to drift
into nothingness.
You owe me.
Barbara...
I am drifting.
That's all
I've ever done.
Except for
during the war
when I stood
for something.
I fought for what
I believed in,
and it felt good.
Then I came home,
and you wanted
everything to be
just like it was,
like I'd never left.
And I tried.
Really, Barbara,
I tried, but...
But that's
all gone now.
I need to find
something
that I can
believe in again.
Now I have a chance
here to do something
good,
something
that can really
make a difference.
And I'm going
to take it.
Why didn't
you ever tell me
you felt this way?
I tried...
But you were too busy
planning my future
to hear me.
All right, George.
You've
made yourself clear.
You've chosen your course.
I won't stand
in your way.
But I want you to know
I have no intention
of letting you
drag me down with you.
I won't be married
to a loser.
There's a price
for everything, George.
Maybe you should
think about that.
If we fought
for democracy
on the battlefields of Europe
and in the pacific,
why can't we have it
in our own town?
Because Tom cantrell
won't let US,
that's why.
On election day
I want you to say no
to the cantrell machine.
We must have the courage
to believe in ourselves,
to believe that we can
make a difference,
that our vote
does count.
And believe this...
Every vote
for the veterans party
is a vote for yourselves!
Gotten a little rusty,
Henry.
Yeah, well, I don't get
to play much anymore.
Things busy
at the office?
It's been
a good year.
Glad to hear it.
You know, uh...
I like to think
I've had a hand
in helping
your firm along.
Yes, Tom,
you've been good to US.
Happy to do it.
Happy to do it.
Of course,
I don't think
I have to tell you
how disappointed
I am in George.
No, you don't.
He has said some
very distressing
things--
slanderous, really.
I was hoping
you might have
a word with him,
see if he would
tone down his rhetoric.
Don't tell me
you're getting nervous.
A good politician's
always nervous.
Of course, George is
going to lose,
but there's no point
in putting ideas
in people's heads,
make them restless.
What makes you so sure
he's going to lose?
The Mexican.
The Mexican.
Nobody's going to vote
for the veterans party
while a Mexican's
on the ballot.
Not in this town.
Not any town
I know.
Am I wrong?
No.
You're exactly right.
Henry, why don't you
tell George
that he's made his point?
After the election's over,
I'd be more than willing
to sit down and discuss
his beloved veterans,
see what I can do.
He'll come out of this
smelling like a Rose.
But for now,
he's got to stop
slinging mud
and behave
like a gentleman.
I can't get through
to him anymore than you.
He's changed.
He's his own man now.
Well, you're
his father, Henry.
I'm depending on you.
What's it say?
If the election
were held today,
it would still
be cantrell by 2 to 1.
How about the phones?
Lots of support,
lots of good lucks,
but very few
committing either way.
Well, time
for more radio.
[Knock on door]
You might as well know,
I'm supposed to be here
to call you off.
Cantrell.
He wants to make a deal.
Stop exposing him
for the thief he is,
he'll take care
of the veterans
after the election.
I'm sure
if you press him,
he'll even suspend
the business licensing
requirements,
maybe even some taxes.
You mean the bribes.
All this is assuming
that I lose.
It's a pretty safe
assumption.
You know that.
But I don't understand.
Everywhere we go,
people cheer US.
It'll take more than
a few hundred veterans
to turn the tide.
It'll take more than
a few hundred veterans
will he keep his word?
He will.
I don't know.
What do you think, dad?
The truth?
A few weeks ago
I would've told you
to make the deal,
but everything's
changing, George.
The town's changed.
You've changed.
I don't know what
surprises me more--
that you made
a believer of me
or of yourself.
Either way
it scares me.
I'm too old
to have everything
shifting,
but even I can see
cantrell's
got to go.
He's out of control.
He's gone too far.
We were friends,
you know...
Ever since
we were children.
That's
a long time ago.
George, you
really want to win
this election?
Of course I do.
You know I do.
Are you willing to do
what it takes--
be ruthless?
Well, I don't under--
what are you
talking about?
You've got to
take Juan Medina
off the ballot.
Nobody's going to
vote for a Mexican.
The town's
not ready for it.
It's that simple.
I won't.
He's one of US.
Is he worth
losing the election for?
We're not talking about
right or wrong here.
We're talking
about reality.
We're talking
about politics.
With him, you lose.
Without him,
you've got a chance.
It's up to you,
George.
I can't believe
what I'm hearing.
Let's take a look
at this.
Take a look at what?
Johnny won
a bronze star.
The man's a hero.
We know
Johnny's the best.
We're talking about
something bigger.
We're talking
about the color
of a man's skin.
I don't like it either,
but not many people
will vote for US
if Juan's on the ticket.
Does anybody think
I'm wrong?
George is right.
We have to think
about this.
We're taking a chance.
I thought that was
the whole point.
We're here
to make changes.
You can't change
people's attitudes
overnight.
How will
those attitudes change?
We have
to take a chance.
We're already trying
the impossible.
So what's
best for the town,
that we lose
on principle
or we compromise
and win?
That's not the point!
If that's not it,
what is?
The point is
we're supposed
to be equals.
We're supposed
to stand for something
better than cantrell.
But what good
will that do US
if we lose?
Walking out on US isn't
going to make it go away.
I can't sit here
and be part of this.
If we compromise this
today,
what will we compromise
tomorrow?
[Door closes]
[Knock on door]
Johnny...
Why don't you come in?
No, George. I can
only stay a minute.
Look, John--
the thing is, George,
I hate to do this
to you now,
but I'll have to
drop out of the race.
Wait a minute.
What are you
talking about?
Well...
I'm thinking about it.
Maybe I don't really
want to stay here...
This place, this town.
Maybe it's time
to move on.
I'm sorry, George.
I didn't mean
to let you down.
Now, look, Johnny.
I don't know
what you've heard,
but you're not
off the ticket.
There's been
a lot of talk--
it doesn't matter.
I won't cost US
the election,
and I'm not
going to wait
to be kicked out.
Either way, I lose.
It's a relief,
isn't it, George?
It's not that way,
Johnny.
Yeah, well...
Why don't you
tell me someday
what way it is,
o.K., amigo?
If we win,
we'll make things
change, Johnny.
I promise that.
Congratulations, George.
You're
a real politician now.
There's nothing here
for US anymore.
No future.
How can I
have children here,
in a place where a man
can't get ahead?
You have to live
in your own world.
This is where
you come from,
this is where
you should stay.
Out there
is only pain for you.
I can't.
Papa, I can't.
I'm not like you.
The army showed me
what's out there,
what a man can be.
I have seen
what's out there.
Here you have
your family,
people
who understand you.
Papa...
I think I'm going
to take Maria
to California.
We'll live
like people there,
not like animals.
What makes you believe
it'll be any different
in California?
It has to be.
No, it doesn't.
Stay for
a little longer, Juan.
I just got you back.
O.k., papa.
O.k.
You seen the polls?
Oh, yeah.
And we're catching up.
Some even have US
slightly ahead.
It's amazing
what the sacrifice
of a human being can do,
isn't it?
You want a drink?
Tough week for you,
George.
It's lonely at the top.
Here's to election day,
a mere...
A mere eight hours away.
I guess I've been
pretty tough on you,
George.
Somebody had to be.
I wasn't up to it.
I don't know.
This whole thing
with Juan...
I knew you were
in a tough spot,
and I know there was
no easy answer,
but it all
just makes me feel...
Corrupted.
Welcome to the club.
You know, I can still
see you in that garden.
I don't know
how many times
I've thought about that.
It was just a glance...
But it stayed with me
a long time.
Get some sleep, George.
You, too.
You bet. Uh-huh.
Mrs. Ferguson
needs a ride in.
She can't drive.
We want
to get her in
so she can vote.
Could you do that?
Oh, that'd be--
that'd be great.
We really
appreciate it.
This is all happening
because of you.
Nobody
believed in you.
You went ahead
and did it anyway.
You're a hero,
Jesse.
Don't forget that.
Becky...
Um...
Um, I know I never
said this to you,
but...
When I got shot,
they told me I might
lose my memories,
so all I did
was think about you
and Sam and...
Everything
we've been through.
I tried to remember
every little thing
in case I never
remembered it again.
It made me realize...
We--
it made me realize
how lucky I am.
And...
You got me through it...
Whether
you know it or not.
And don't think
I don't know
you ran this factory
better than I could.
You kept
everything going.
And if
anybody's a hero...
It's you.
So far...
It's veterans party...
Yes...
2 to 1!
They're saying it's 2 to 1,
veterans.
Is it slowing down any?
How's it looking?
They're still lining up
around the block to vote.
Well, I think
it's about time
the polls were closed,
don't you?
Deputize everybody
you can.
Meet me
at the post office.
Let's go.
These polls are
officially closed!
Everybody out!
What are you doing?
I'm warning everybody
to leave these premises.
The polls are closed.
Like hell! These people
came here to vote--
damn it, Curtis!
Yeah?
What?
All right.
Jack just got shot
at the post office.
Mcmillan's
got an army there.
They closed the polls.
Hey, Billy,
you got the keys
to the armory?
Let's go.
Hold on.
Stay out of this, George!
You stay back!
There's a man hurt
in there.
He needs help.
I don't want to shoot you,
George, but I will.
We're taking
what we came for
and getting out of here.
Ow! My back!
O.k.
It'll be all right.
O.k., let's him get up.
What are you
waiting for?
Get his legs!
We're losing some blood.
Let's go!
Get his legs!
All right.
Come on!
Tell cantrell
he's gone too far
this time, mcmillan.
It's all your fault!
You should've
kept your mouth shut
and minded
your own business!
What the hell
we do now, George?
Lets go.
Don't move in
until I tell you.
We don't want anybody
to get hurt.
All right.
George,
what's going on?
They took
the ballot boxes.
We're
getting them back.
With guns?
If necessary, yes.
George,
we can't start a war.
Slow down a minute.
We can't really
call the police.
Call the governor.
You're playing into
cantrell's hands.
The governor's
on cantrell's side.
We're out of time.
They'll
count the votes,
he'll declare
himself the winner.
We can't let this happen,
people are going to get hurt.
Why does it always have
to come down to a war?
You want to know why,
hope?
Because some people
can't be reasoned with.
Who are you talking about,
you or cantrell?
You better put
the governor on right now.
Tell him
it's Tom cantrell,
and it's an emergency!
How many of them
are out there?
Every 10 minutes,
another farmer
with a shotgun
pulls up.
Earl!
Yeah, you better believe
it's important.
I've got renegade veterans
with guns
surrounding my jail.
They're trying to steal
the ballot boxes,
that's what.
I don't know how many.
There's 100, maybe 200.
I need some help,
and I need it fast.
Yes, Earl, I have men,
but I don't have enough--
yeah.
Yes, all right.
You just hurry,
understand?
Someday we'll see
how fast I move
when your back's
against the wall.
Cover the window.
What'd he say?
He's going to mobilize
the national guard.
We'll have to sit tight
and wait.
Let's do what
we came here to do.
Open it up!
Tom, this is George Meade!
We want
two of your deputies
to come down, unarmed,
with the ballot boxes,
set them down
in the middle of the street.
We'll do an official count,
then we can all go home.
Now, if I don't see
that ballot box
come through that door
in one minute,
we're going to open fire.
You got 60 seconds.
20!
You're out of your mind,
George,
we're the law here,
not you.
The national guard's
on its way--
who fired that shot?
Jesse!
Jesse!
Hold your fire!
Hold your fire!
Hold your fire!
Hold your fire!
Is anybody hit?
This is crazy!
Give them what they want!
They're going to kill US!
Shut up!
Now, keep calm!
They'll never
get in this building.
We're safe here
till help comes.
You heard them.
The national guard
will shoot first,
ask questions later.
We'll go to prison,
if they don't
kill US first.
We got to get
those ballot boxes
before the guard comes.
If we can do that,
we can tell
our side of the story.
The whole town's
our witness.
So what are we
going to do George?
The brick's too solid.
We can't shoot through.
They can stay in there
all night.
We'll just have
to blow it.
Ready.
We turned our backs
on you, Johnny,
let you walk away.
Nobody
would blame you
for staying away.
It's different
when it's war.
Yeah, but
it shouldn't be.
I'm not doing this
for you.
I'm doing this
to get rid of cantrell.
I'm doing it because
this is my town, too.
Put your head down,
amigo.
[Coughing]
Where is he?
Where's cantrell?
Gone.
Where is he?
I swear!
He ran downstairs
and out back
after the explosion.
Out.
Get out!
[Cheering]
We didn't have
any choice.
Cantrell?
Got away.
Why don't I feel
like we won?
Maybe because
we are tainted.
That's what
cantrell said.
What?
Nothing.
George?
Was it worth it?
I hope so.
Congratulations,
Mr. Mayor.