Empire of Light (2022) - full transcript
A drama about the power of human connection during turbulent times, set in an English coastal town in the early 1980s.
(SOLEMN INSTRUMENTAL
MUSIC PLAYING)
(SOLEMN INSTRUMENTAL
MUSIC CONTINUES PLAYING)
HILARY:
Thank you.
Thank you
for coming.
Thank you.
Merry Christmas.
NEIL: And I'm not
talkin' about a new
pair of trousers.
An old pair,
just lyin' there.
JANINE: Oh, yeah.
See, I used to do that.
When my mum
wouldn't let me wear
my miniskirt
out of the house.
I just got changed
in the back row.
NEIL: Also,
used nappy.
Popcorn bucket
with vomit inside.
JANINE: Ugh.
Yeah.
Whole cooked chicken
in a Safeway bag.
How about you,
Hils?
What's the worst
thing you've found?
Anything interesting?
Um, dead body.
Had a heart attack during
Smokey and the Bandit.
Took three people
to move him.
Bloody hell.
Well,
that's killed
the mood.
(LAUGHS)
(BOTH LAUGH)
What the fuck?
Blimey!
(CHUCKLES SOFTLY)
(SOFT INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC
PLAYING)
(INDISTINCT CHATTER,
LAUGHTER)
(SEABIRDS CAWING IN DISTANCE)
(SPITS)
(PLACES TOOTHBRUSH)
(HEAVY BREATHING)
(OPENS LID)
(PILLS RATTLING)
(CHORAL MUSIC
PLAYING FAINTLY
ON SPEAKERS)
(MUSIC STOPS)
LAIRD: Headaches?
Nausea?
No.
LAIRD: Sleeping all right?
Yes.
Good.
Shall we weigh you?
LAIRD: Mmm.
Not ideal.
Four pounds heavier.
How do you feel,
generally?
Fine.
LAIRD: Do you feel better
since leaving
St. Jude's?
Yes.
Any big
mood swings?
No, not really.
Good.
Stable.
That's good.
(LAIRD HUMMING TUNE)
I do feel a bit...
LAIRD: Hmm?
Numb, I suppose.
Well, I'm sure
that'll wear off
as soon as you get
used to the lithium.
It's marvelous stuff.
And you do have
people you could
talk to, I assume?
Family, friends?
Oh, yes.
(JERSEY BOUNCE
BY BENNY GOODMAN PLAYING)
Hilary, do you
have a partner?
Yes. No,
I don't think so.
Excellent.
This is Bill.
Bill,
this is Hilary.
How do you do?
Nice to meet you.
Apologies in advance.
(JERSEY BOUNCE CONTINUES)
NEIL: I mean,
it's so depressing.
He's just dronin'
on and on.
You wake me up
when it's over.
JANINE:
Oh, piss off!
(SINGING)
No, don't!
You're gonna
break it.
(NEIL WHIMPERING)
No, don't!
You're gonna
break it.
NEIL: Janine!
Stop the... (YELPS)
(LAUGHTER)
God,
you're a tosser.
I am a tosser,
but I did try.
Yeah.
Yeah, whatever.
Listen, come back,
Supertramp,
all is forgiven!
(SINGING)
(NEIL SCATTING)
(LAUGHTER)
(CONTINUES SINGING)
What on earth
is going on?
Sorry, Mr. Ellis,
Janine was playing us
something
on her Walkman.
ELLIS: Well,
you can all
calm down.
Janine, if you're
at a loose end,
perhaps you'd like
to come and do
tickets for us?
Trevor hasn't
shown up again,
so we're short.
JANINE:
But it's my
lunch break.
It doesn't look
like you were
eating much lunch.
Well, yeah,
'cause I haven't
had the chance yet.
My heart bleeds.
Outside.
(JANINE SIGHS)
Hilary, perhaps
you and I
could discuss
that whole
Trevor situation
in my office?
Ten minutes.
Yes, of course.
(ELLIS BREATHING HEAVILY)
ELLIS: Suck me.
HILARY: No.
Please.
Suck me off.
HILARY: No,
let's just keep...
(BOTH BREATHING HEAVILY)
Just like this.
Like this.
(DOOR CLOSING)
(YOU'RE BLASE BY ELLA
FITZGERALD PLAYING SOFTLY)
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
(DOOR OPENS)
WAITER:
Good evening, sir.
How can I help you?
ELLIS:
Table for two,
please.
(DOOR CLOSES)
WAITER: Can I
take your coat?
Thank you.
WAITER: May I take
your order, madam?
Oh, I'm not sure...
(HESITATES)
You know,
I've just realized,
I'm really late
for an appointment.
I'm terribly sorry.
(VEHICLES PASSING OUTSIDE)
So, Stephen here
will be replacing Trevor,
who was never
here anyway.
So, he's already off
to a flying start.
(CHUCKLES)
Anyway, this is Neil,
who does
Box Office mostly.
Nice to meet you.
Hiya.
Norman,
our projectionist.
All right?
Hello.
And Janine,
who'll be collecting
tickets with you.
Watch out
for her strange
musical tastes.
(CHUCKLES)
It can't be worse
than mine.
(GIGGLES) Hiya.
STEPHEN: Hi.
ELLIS:
Frankie, Brian
and Finn with the...
hair.
BOTH: Hello.
STEPHEN: Hey.
And our esteemed
duty manager, Hilary.
She also does
sweets and snacks.
Hello.
Hello.
So, I'll leave you all
to get better acquainted.
Hilary will
show you
the ropes.
Make sure you
take the packet
from the front
otherwise it never
gets sold
then it gets dusty.
Okay.
(EXHALES)
That smell must
make you hungry.
You're never tempted
to sneak a handful?
No.
I didn't mean
to steal it,
I just meant...
Try to keep a tab
of the items you sell
and then make sure
you replace them
at the end of your shift.
This is
Screen One.
Wicked.
HILARY: Mmm.
You'll have to do
final cleanup
if you're on
late shift.
Make sure to check
for sleepers.
(CHUCKLES)
Really?
Yes.
One chap
used to bring in
an air mattress.
(BOTH CHUCKLE)
Projection booth.
Don't go in.
Norman's very
particular.
You stand
at the bottom
of these stairs.
And, make sure
you keep hold
of the ticket stubs,
then bring them
back to me
so I can check them
against admissions.
Okay. So, when do we,
you know, open up?
Erm...
Twenty minutes.
What's up there?
Public aren't allowed.
Can I have
a look?
Oh, I'm not sure.
Go on.
Please.
STEPHEN:
Oh, my God.
It's a whole
other cinema.
HILARY:
Used to be
four screens.
HILARY:
Screen Three.
Screen Four.
(DOOR OPENS)
Best for last.
(CAPTIVATING MUSIC PLAYING)
(PIGEONS FLUTTERING)
Wow.
(FLUTTERING CONTINUES)
STEPHEN:
What a place.
HILARY:
It really
was beautiful.
It still is.
Another world.
(PIGEON COOING)
Look at this
little fellow.
It's all right.
(GRUNTS SOFTLY)
It's all right.
It's all right.
(SHUSHING)
(PIGEON CONTINUES COOING)
I think
he's broken
his wing.
(SIGHS)
He needs
a bit of help.
HILARY:
I don't think
he likes it.
STEPHEN:
It's okay,
he's fine.
Aren't you?
Here, hold him.
Oh, no, no.
I don't like birds.
Oh, come on. Look.
Come on.
Go like this.
(HILARY GASPS)
Oh.
There you go.
He loves it.
Look, he prefers you.
(CHUCKLES SOFTLY)
Now...
What're you doing?
Special trick.
You okay?
Yeah.
(CHUCKLES SOFTLY)
You ready?
Hold him still.
Yes.
HILARY: Oh.
(CHUCKLES)
Good boy.
You can put
him down now.
(BOTH CHUCKLE)
What happens
when he needs the loo?
(BOTH CHUCKLE)
NORMAN:
Nine across.
Five letters.
Word that starts
a Waste Land.
April.
Oh. (CHUCKLES)
Morning, Hils.
Morning.
Norman.
Got your glad rags
for tonight?
Yes.
And I brought
those in for later.
Ooh, I say!
So, we could go
down Misty's
off Tivoli Road,
if we can
get in.
Or that club,
Hades,
at the Lido...
Hello.
...has got
a good DJ.
Yeah,
maybe, yeah.
NEIL:
What's all that?
It's my stingy brim.
My three-button tonic
for tonight.
NEIL: Didn't have you
down as a Rude Boy.
What you
goin' on about?
Rude boy,
you know?
Two Tone.
NORMAN: Who-tone?
STEPHEN: Two Tone.
The Specials,
The Selecter,
The Beat.
I don't understand
a single word
you're sayin'.
(STEPHEN LAUGHS)
It is a bit
like reggae,
but dance music.
It's like
fast reggae.
Always fancied
one of these.
Yeah, you've got
the reggae ska side,
and then you've got
the punk side.
You know,
Black and white
together.
It's a melting pot.
JANINE: Mmm.
God help us.
STEPHEN:
What about you,
Hilary?
Gonna come
dance with us?
Oh, no, I shouldn't think so.
It's not really my thing.
Discotheques.
Bloody nightmare.
So, what're you
gonna do?
Um, I dunno, I thought
I might go onto the roof,
watch the fireworks.
Nice.
Where's all
your mates,
anyway?
Buggered off
to college.
Ah, that's where
I'm goin'.
NORMAN:
Good luck with that.
(JANINE LAUGHS)
STEPHEN: Well,
off we go, then.
Another day,
another four pounds fifty.
Oh, God.
Oh, my God.
He is such
a much of a hunk.
Now that
is on the cards.
(CLEARS THROAT)
Screen One,
top of the stairs. Enjoy.
JANINE: Upstairs,
Screen One. Okay?
Thank you.
Enjoy the film.
I'm looking
forward to it.
(JANINE LAUGHING)
Yes, sir.
That's the 8 o'clock
up and runnin'.
So, what time
are you clocking off?
Where are
the ticket stubs?
I gave 'em
to Janine.
Where's Janine?
Shit. I think
she went early.
You had one thing
I asked you to do.
One thing.
Yeah, I know,
but I thought
that I could...
(ANGRILY)
It's completely
unacceptable!
All right,
there's no need to...
It's unprofessional!
Impersonating
the customers,
laughing behind
their backs!
People come here
for a nice time,
not to be
laughed at!
Yeah, you're right.
I'm sorry.
Good.
Just don't
laugh at people.
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
(DOOR OPENS)
Hilary,
when you're
done later,
why don't you
pop into the office
for a quick drink?
Oh, I don't know.
No, come on.
Just for a few minutes.
Toast the new year.
All right.
That would be nice.
No invite
for me, I see.
HILARY: I can't.
(ELLIS GRUNTS)
Stop.
Why?
Who's this hurting?
Well, your wife,
for one.
She has no idea.
Doesn't mean
it's right.
Brenda doesn't
know me anymore.
We've been sleeping
in different rooms
since the summer.
She won't even
make me
a cup of tea.
You're the most
wonderful person.
You're so helpful.
I feel such
tenderness towards you.
Your arse
feels so good
in my hands.
(ELLIS BREATHING HEAVILY)
(ELLIS MOANS)
Here's to 1981.
God, lovely stuff, that.
Glenfiddich.
HILARY: Mmm.
So, any New Year's
resolutions?
No, not really.
Um, try to eat
a bit better, maybe.
I was thinking
perhaps I'd...
I'd like to expand
this place a bit.
Put it on the map.
Can I let you in
on a secret?
You mustn't
tell anyone.
What?
It looks like
we might be getting
a big South Coast premiere.
Mayor, councilors...
Herald, the lot.
Gosh.
Well, that would
be wonderful.
ELLIS:
Oh, I know.
Chariots of Fire.
That's the film.
It was between us
and the Odeon,
but they didn't want
a circuit cinema.
So, it looks like
we've got the nod.
So, we'll have
to spruce the place
up a bit.
Who knows?
Might be the beginning
of an exciting new chapter.
(CAR HONKING IN DISTANCE)
(KNOCKS AT DOOR)
Jesus!
Hello?
It's me, Stephen.
(CAR HORN BLARING)
Come in.
I was just leaving.
I wanted to apologize
for earlier.
Oh, really, it's fine.
I'm sorry I shouted.
Why didn't you go
with Janine?
I did, for a bit.
But I don't know
any of her mates,
and people,
you know, staring. So...
How awful
to feel watched.
Yeah, sometimes.
Anyway,
I thought you might
want company.
On the roof.
Oh, I'd almost
forgotten about that.
Yeah, okay.
Why not?
(SENTIMENTAL MUSIC PLAYING)
(STEPHEN GASPS)
STEPHEN:
Oh, wow.
This is so cool.
(CHUCKLES)
Look at that.
If I had some binoculars
I could almost see my mum.
Is that where you live?
Yeah.
(CORK POPS)
(DRINK POURING)
Do you always
come up here
on New Year's Eve?
Last couple of years.
I don't blame you.
Here. Not exactly Moet,
but it's better than Tizer.
Thank you.
I'm sorry
it's just us.
No, this is nice.
I'm not really a fan of
New Year's Eve, anyway.
Last year,
I puked on my new shoes.
Oh, no!
What happened to them?
(CHUCKLES)
They survived.
(HILARY LAUGHS)
Cheers.
Cheers.
Oh, come on!
Get it down ya!
Oh, no. I shouldn't.
I've had too much already.
Really? When?
Come on.
What are you,
a woman or a wouse?
What's that?
9 to 5.
You know, 9 to 5,
the film we're showing.
(WHISPERS) Oh.
Honestly, anyone would think
you worked in a bank, Hilary.
Why don't you
sneak in and watch?
Oh, no, no,
that's for the customers.
And it gets so busy out front,
there's always so much to do.
Oh, God,
listen to me,
I'm so boring.
Honestly.
(LAUGHS)
(BELLS TOLLING IN DISTANCE)
Oh, listen.
(BELLS CONTINUE TOLLING)
"Ring out, wild bells,
to the wild sky...
"the flying cloud
and the frosty light.
"The year is dying
in the night.
"Ring out,
wild bells,
and let him die."
Nice.
Tennyson.
PEOPLE:
(IN DISTANCE)
Ten, nine.
HILARY: Eight.
(ALONG WITH PEOPLE)
Seven, six...
five, four...
three, two, one!
PEOPLE:
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year!
(PEOPLE CHEERING)
(FIREWORKS BURSTING)
(FIREWORKS CONTINUE BURSTING)
Shit.
Hilary,
it's all right!
(SENTIMENTAL MUSIC PLAYING)
(MUSIC CONTINUES)
(IMPERCEPTIBLE)
(IMPERCEPTIBLE)
(MUSIC CONTINUES)
(IMPERCEPTIBLE)
Why not?
Because
it's pointless.
They turned
me down
the first time.
To study what?
Architecture.
Oh, that would
be wonderful!
Yeah.
You have
to try again.
Yeah, maybe.
Well, you can't
just give up.
Stephen?
Don't let them tell you
what you can or can't do.
No one's gonna give you
the life you want.
You have to go
out and get it.
You can't stay here.
All right.
MAN: Oi!
Oi!
Where you from?
MAN 2:
Where you goin', son?
MAN 1: Well,
they have
fuckin' bananas
where you come from,
did they?
Why don't you
fuck off
back home
where you
came from, yeah?
You fuckin' chimp.
Yeah, go home,
fuckin' coon.
We don't like wogs
'round here.
Taking our jobs.
Go, then.
Fuck off!
(MEN LAUGHING AND JEERING)
(MEN HOOTING MOCKINGLY)
MAN 2: Go home,
fucking coon.
NORMAN:
I told management
months ago.
There should be
a no-smoking rule
in both auditoria.
Smoke compromises
the viewing experience.
Ruins the projected image,
and it stains the screen.
Simple common sense.
All I'm saying is
you need a basic
understanding
of optical
and mechanical
principles.
to be in this game.
Like I keep
telling Ellis,
any old numpty
could sell tickets.
ELLIS: Morning.
Morning,
Mr. Ellis.
Morning, Norman.
Morning, all.
Hilary,
can you pop in
for a minute?
Nope.
I'm sorry?
No, I can't.
I'm running late.
I need to open up.
Suit yourself.
I was going to ask you
to work late tonight.
Brenda and I have
an engagement.
So, I'll need
to be gone by 5:00.
Sorry.
STEPHEN:
Screen Two.
Go on upstairs.
Enjoy the film.
Hello.
I think our
little friend
might need a visit.
It'll cheer him up.
(SEAGULLS CALLING)
STEPHEN: Nearly ready.
Open the window.
(PIGEON COOING)
Look at that.
Good as new.
Amazing.
Yeah.
Time to say goodbye.
Bye.
(HILARY GASPS SOFTLY)
STEPHEN:
There he goes.
To be able to fly.
Yeah.
(SOFT MUSIC PLAYING)
(BREATHING HEAVILY)
STEPHEN:
Trinidad,
originally.
They brought
my mum over
in the '60s
to train
as a nurse.
Apparently,
they needed
more workers.
"Help rebuild
the mother country,
"make your fortune."
(CHUCKLES)
She's still here,
still a nurse.
That explains
the pigeon splint.
(STEPHEN CHUCKLES)
You got me.
And here was me
thinking you were Jesus.
(BOTH CHUCKLE)
What about
your dad?
He was a bus driver.
But he left
years ago.
Where to?
I dunno.
Gosh.
How did you feel?
Fine.
It's always
been just me
and my mum.
She's the best.
Wish I could
say the same
for mine.
Was that...
you know?
Was it okay?
Yeah.
It was more
than okay.
(CHUCKLES SOFTLY)
Shit.
What time is it?
NEIL: Where
have you been?
Ellis left 20 minutes ago,
he said you were covering.
I'm so
sorry, Neil.
I've had to keep
them all
waiting outside!
And where's Stephen?
I don't know.
Is he not here?
STEPHEN: Sorry!
HILARY: So sorry!
Thank you very much.
Sorry to keep you.
Thank you.
Thank you
very much.
Thank you
so much.
Hello, there.
Sorry to keep you.
(YOU TURN ME ON, I'M A RADIO
BY JONI MITCHELL PLAYING)
♪ If you're driving into town
♪ With a dark cloud above you
♪ Dial in the number
♪ Who's bound to love you
♪ Oh, honey, you turn me on ♪
(YOU TURN ME ON, I'M A RADIO
CONTINUES ON RADIO)
(HUMMING ALONG)
♪ I'm a country station
I'm a little bit corny
♪ I'm a wildwood flower
waving for you
♪ I'm a broadcasting tower
waving for you
♪ And I'm sending you out
this signal here
♪ I hope you can pick it up
loud and clear
♪ I know you don't like
weak women
♪ You get bored so quick
♪ And you don't like
strong women
♪ 'Cause they're hip
to your tricks
♪ It's been dirty for dirty
♪ Down the line
♪ But you know
I come when you whistle
♪ When you're loving and kind
♪ But if you've got
too many doubts
♪ If there's no good reception
for me
♪ Then tune me out... ♪
Enjoy the film.
I'm so sorry, sir.
You have
to finish those
out here,
you can't bring
them in.
Why not?
Because those
are the rules.
It's my breakfast.
I know, but you've got
a couple of minutes
before the film starts.
I'll miss
the comin' attractions.
Well, it's up to you.
(SCOFFS)
Are you fuckin' serious?
Yes.
Are you gonna
stand there
and let me be
bossed around
by this...?
By this...
what?
By this what?
Okay, now,
Mr. Cooper.
You haven't got
many chips left, look.
You could eat a few
and then give
the rest to me.
I like a chip.
(GULPING)
Happy now?
So sorry.
Sorry, Stephen,
he's always
a bit of a handful.
He's a dickhead.
You okay?
Stephen?
Stephen?
Stephen?
(HORN BLARES)
It's no point
walking out.
There's every
fuckin' point.
He's just
an angry man.
He's always angry
about something.
Look, Hilary, I know
you're trying to help,
but you're just
makin' it worse.
How am I
making it worse?
By pretending
it isn't there.
I really don't
know what you're
talking about.
All right,
put it this way.
He's not just
"angry," is he?
And he should
be the one
to leave.
Not me.
You're absolutely
right, Stephen.
I'm sorry.
Really.
Okay, this might
be the moment
to demonstrate
my greatest talent.
HILARY: Does it
happen a lot?
Yeah, more
than it used to.
Especially
the last few months.
Really?
Well, yeah.
It's everywhere,
isn't it?
Is it?
Yes, it is.
All that stuff
in Brixton.
And the skinheads.
And Thatcher.
And those kids
in New Cross.
What was
New Cross?
Couple of weeks ago,
at this girl's
16th birthday party
someone started a fire.
No one
came for them.
You should read
the newspapers, Hilary.
It's not goin' away.
Told you,
you need to hold
it sideways.
Yeah, not bad.
Still some
training needed.
Look, watch this. Okay?
(HILARY CHUCKLES)
I lied.
I'm shit at it.
(CHUCKLES)
Kiss me.
No one's looking.
(SENTIMENTAL MUSIC PLAYING)
Four canisters at a time,
'cause they're not light.
And lift 'em carefully.
Precious cargo.
(NORMAN GRUNTS)
Put 'em
down there.
Tea?
Please.
You can go in
if you want.
(SPOON CLANKING SOFTLY)
(SPOON CLATTERS)
These are my babies.
Pair of model 18 Kalees.
I had no idea
they'd be so big.
Well, that's just
as it should be.
You don't want
people to know.
They should just see
a beam of light.
But back here...
it's belts, straps,
pulleys,
intermittents...
sprockets.
Complex machinery.
And what's this?
That's the carbons.
Spark between
the carbons
makes the light.
And nothing happens
without light.
Ciggy?
No, thanks.
Amazin'.
It is amazing.
Because it's just
static frames,
with darkness
in between.
But there's a little flaw
in your optic nerve
so that if I run the film
at 24 frames per second,
you don't see the darkness.
(CHUCKLES) Wow.
It's called
the Phi Phenomenon.
Viewing static
images rapidly
in succession
creates
an illusion
of motion.
Illusion of life.
ELLIS: So, on top of
the lobby needing
a lick of paint
and all the rest,
we're going to need
special signage,
a red carpet,
crash barriers
for the crowds.
And I believe
the mayor's office
will provide some
security. Jim?
Yes, yes,
indeed.
There will be
a small security detail.
And you can
expect the mayor,
of course
and his entourage,
which is not insubstantial.
And we're waiting
for confirmation,
but guests
look to include
Dora Bryan,
Sir Laurence Olivier,
Steve Ovett,
Dame Flora Robson,
Dusty Springfield
and possibly,
Paul McCartney.
(HILARY GASPS SOFTLY)
Goodness.
Mmm.
Yes, I know.
Lives in Rye.
Hmm.
Two pounds down
since last time.
Well done.
Well, I've been
trying to take a bit
more exercise,
eating better,
you know.
And the lithium?
How's that?
Good.
Last time you said
that it made you feel
a little out of sorts.
Yes, it's much
better now.
I think my system
must be getting
used to it.
Really?
Yeah,
much better.
Excellent.
(HILARY HUMMING)
(DO NOTHING
BY THE SPECIALS PLAYING)
What're you doing?
No one's watchin' you!
Shut up,
look the other way.
Why?
I've seen it all.
Don't be vulgar.
It's different
in the throes
of passion.
Well, I can't
be bothered.
I am going...
What're you doing?
(GASPS)
(STEPHEN LAUGHS)
HILARY: No!
(LAUGHS)
STEPHEN: Charge!
(LAUGHING)
(HILARY GASPS, LAUGHS)
(DO NOTHING CONTINUES PLAYING)
(SEAGULLS CALLING)
HILARY: Where did
you meet her?
STEPHEN: She was
one of the nurses
on my mum's ward.
HILARY: She your first
serious girlfriend?
Yeah.
Broke my heart.
Cried for a week.
I still can't go
near the hospital
without getting
butterflies.
Goodness.
Yeah, I just couldn't
stop thinkin' about her,
you know?
What about you?
Oh, nothing
as grand as that.
There must have
been someone.
Hilary?
Mind your own business.
Okay.
That one's different
to the others.
I wasn't aware
I was working
under instruction.
I'm just saying.
Well, thank you.
Thank you so much.
Why you doing that?
You're spoilin' it.
I am not working
under instruction.
All right, fine.
Do what you want.
I shall.
Thank you.
God, you men,
you always
have to help us.
Always have to instruct us.
Don't be silly.
Got your hands
around our fucking throats
and you won't let go.
(ANGRILY) Got your hands
around our fucking necks
and we can't breathe.
But you won't
let go, will you?
You won't fucking
well let go!
Why don't you just...
Hilary!
...fucking let go?
Stop.
What're you doin'?
(PANTING)
You won't fucking
well let go, will you?
(BREATHING HEAVILY)
(GRUNTS)
(BREATHING HEAVILY)
(SOMBER MUSIC PLAYING)
Are you sure
you'll be okay
getting home?
Yeah.
You?
Oh, I'll be fine.
I'm in early tomorrow
to open up.
Maybe see you then?
(HILARY BREATHING HEAVILY)
(SEAGULLS CALLING)
NEIL: Morning.
Morning.
Listen...
Hilary,
I know it's none
of my business,
but perhaps
it might be better
to leave your
personal life
at home.
What?
Rather than
upstairs, in the,
you know...
in the pigeon coop.
I don't know
what you mean.
Oh, come on.
Look, be careful.
Hils, remember
what happened before.
Just look
after yourself.
I don't know
how he knew,
he just knew.
I think he might
have seen us
coming downstairs
together the other day.
It's fine.
We just need
to be more discreet.
Perhaps just meet
outside of work?
Look,
maybe it's not
a good idea.
What do you mean?
Well, this.
The whole thing.
Why?
Well, once people
know it, it's different.
Really?
Yeah, it's just...
It feels different.
You're embarrassed.
No, I'm not.
And that's not,
that's not what I'm saying.
Yes, you are,
you're embarrassed.
I just don't...
Of course you are.
It's silly.
It's ridiculous.
What were we thinking?
I'm not embarrassed,
Hilary.
I just don't think
we can do this.
No, you're absolutely right.
I'll see you soon.
(KISSES)
(SIGHS)
(BOLT UNLATCHES)
(SOBBING)
(OLD ROCK MUSIC
PLAYING ON SPEAKERS)
Have either
of you two
seen the keys
to the utility
cupboard?
Oh, I dunno.
I think Hilary
had them.
Oh.
There you go.
Thanks.
NEIL: You heard
from Hilary?
No.
It's been
three days.
She told Mr. Ellis
she was taking
some overdue holiday.
I'm sure
it's all fine.
So why am I worried?
She had
a rough time
last year.
She had to go
away for a while
in the summer.
Why?
I think things just got
a bit much for her.
She ended up being
rude to a couple
of the customers.
Shouting at them.
She was staying later
and later at work.
Said she couldn't sleep.
And started doing weird...
things.
Eventually, Ellis told us
she had to go into hospital.
She was away
for a few weeks
and when she got back
she was different.
How?
Just quieter.
A bit sad.
Did you speak
to her about it?
She didn't wanna talk.
(DOORBELL BUZZING)
(DOORBELL BUZZING)
♪ Sex, they dare
♪ To push fake morals,
insult and stare
♪ While money doesn't talk,
it swears
♪ Obscenity, who really cares
Propaganda, all is phony ♪
(BUZZING CONTINUES)
♪ While them that defend
what they cannot see
♪ With a killer's pride,
security
♪ It blows the minds
most bitterly
♪ For them that think
death's honesty
♪ Won't fall
upon 'em naturally
♪ Life sometimes
must get lonely
♪ My eyes collide head-on
with stuffed
♪ Graveyards, false goals,
I scuff
♪ At pettiness
which plays so rough
♪ Walk upside down
inside handcuffs
♪ Kick my legs to crash it off
♪ Say, okay, I've had enough
♪ What else can you show me?
♪ And if my thought-dreams
could be seen
♪ They'd probably put my head
in a guillotine
♪ But it's alright, Ma
♪ It's life, and life only ♪
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
JANINE:
Enjoy.
Uh, hi!
(INDISTINCT CHATTER CONTINUES)
JANINE:
Enjoy.
HILARY: My dear
young man!
Don't you look
absolutely glorious!
Hilary! Hi.
Yes, I know,
I don't have a ticket.
But it's all right,
I work here.
I taught him
everything he knows.
Hello!
Darling!
(APPLAUSE)
ELLIS: My worshipful
Lord Mayor
and Lady Mayoress,
Councilor Rushworth,
Councilor Booth.
My lords, ladies
and gentlemen,
good evening.
My name
is Donald Ellis.
I am the manager
of the Empire Cinema,
perhaps the South Coast's
premier film venue.
It is a great honor...
perhaps the greatest
of my career
to welcome you to this,
the regional
gala premiere
of Chariots of Fire.
(APPLAUSE)
Uh, there are
a few people
I need to thank.
Uh, the mayor's office,
obviously.
(WHISPERS)
Where's the mayor?
ELLIS: And in particular,
Jim Booth for his help...
(WHISPERS) There.
Next to Ellis' wife.
(MOUTHING)
ELLIS: ...and
his sage advice.
And all the staff here.
Uh, Hilary's here.
ELLIS:
At the Empire,
for their hard work
and dedication.
What? Where?
ELLIS: And lastly...
Somewhere in the building.
ELLIS:
...my wife,
Brenda...
Is she all right?
ELLIS: ...whose unstinted
support and love...
I'm not sure.
...have been unwavering.
And so,
without further ado...
I am delighted
to welcome you
to Hugh Hudson's stirring
and altogether terrific...
Chariots of Fire.
(APPLAUSE)
ELLIS:
What're you doing?
Oh, no.
(APPLAUSE)
Good evening, my lords,
ladies and gentlemen.
Mr. Mayor.
My name
is Hilary Small.
I am duty manager
here at the Empire.
And as such,
I thought I'd add
a few words of welcome.
Tonight is a special night.
More than ever,
we need to be...
We need to feel
part of a community.
Black or white,
it doesn't matter.
It's a very
important thing.
We must celebrate.
(MIC FEEDBACK WHINES)
So, to mark the occasion,
I'd like to read a poem
I think would be appropriate.
It's by W. H. Auden.
"The desires of the heart
are as crooked as corkscrews.
"Not to be born
is the best for man...
"the second best
is a formal order...
"the dance's pattern.
"Dance while you can.
"Dance, dance,
for the figure is easy...
"the tune is catching
and will not stop.
"Dance till the stars
come down from the rafters.
"Dance, dance,
dance till you drop."
Thank you.
(APPLAUSE)
Hilary!
What the hell
do you think
you're doing?
You were not
invited to speak.
Well, it can't be
all men droning on.
You knew
what this evening
meant to me, Hilary.
You more
than anyone.
And yet you willfully
tried to ruin it.
Well, I'm terribly sorry,
but you can't
always have it
your own way!
Well, you've got
a problem.
You know that?
You need
serious help.
Now, we've all tried
to help you here,
but at some
point you need
...to take
responsibility
for your own...
And why don't you go
and fuck yourself!
Donald?
What're you doing?
Why aren't you inside?
The film's started.
Oh, hello,
Brenda.
I've been
wanting to meet.
I think about
you daily.
BRENDA: I don't understand.
Well,
so many questions
for a start.
And so many
notes to compare.
I'm still unclear.
Mostly about
your husband's
sexual tastes.
Hilary,
for God's sake.
What do you mean?
ELLIS: Brenda,
this is nonsense.
Don't listen
to a word she says.
"To fuck or not to fuck,
that is the question.
"Whether 'tis nobler
in the minds
"to wank him off
into his teacup,
"or let him fuck me
over his desk
"and spoil
all his paperwork?"
Is this true?
Donald,
is this true?
NEIL: Yes.
Yes, it's true.
(NORMAN SIGHS)
Well, first reel's
goin' off beautifully.
What the hell
are you doing?
Telling the truth.
What a novel idea!
That's not the truth.
I'll tell you the truth.
You're a schizophrenic.
You're a fucking nutter!
And the only reason
you're working here
is because
I told the social workers
I'd keep
an eye on you.
You're unemployable.
If you want to find
the condoms,
they are in
the top left-hand
drawer of his desk,
next to the Murray Mints.
Right, so,
what're we gonna do?
Well, Ellis says
he doesn't want
her back at work.
Apparently, she'd already
threatened to smash
all his windows
with a golf club.
What?
Is that really true?
I wouldn't put it
past her.
He's called
the social services.
They'll probably
take her back
into hospital.
Well, how come
he gets away
with it?
It just seems so unfair.
Look, she's probably
better off in St. Jude's.
How can she be better off
in a mental hospital?
They know
how to deal with it.
No.
What are you doing?
Well, I'm going
to see her.
I don't think
that's a good idea.
I'm not sure
how much help
you can be.
Well, I can't just
turn my back on her.
Leave her on her own.
I can't.
Hilary!
(SEAGULLS CALLING IN DISTANCE)
(DOORBELL BUZZING)
(DOOR BUZZES OPEN)
What do
you want?
I'm worried
about you.
Well,
that's terribly sweet,
but I don't need
your concern.
I thought you might
want company,
someone to talk to.
I'm absolutely fine!
Jesus Christ,
what is wrong
with you people?
All right,
all right.
But I just need
to say this.
What you're going through
is a medical condition,
it's an illness.
And I wanted
to make sure
that you understand
that it's not your fault.
(LAUGHING)
Did you take a guide book
out of the library for me?
Oh, dear.
What's so funny?
You don't have
to try so hard.
(LAUGHS, KISSES)
Just pour me
a glass of wine.
(THE WIND
BY CAT STEVENS
PLAYING SOFTLY)
HILARY: And they said,
"No, you can't go in there.
"You're not allowed."
So, I sat there
like a good little girl
with my schoolbag
at my feet.
And I waited.
And I knew it as soon
as my father stepped
into the room,
I could smell
the sex on them.
Such a fucking cliche!
Sex with the secretary.
I think
my mother knew.
She kept asking me
but I told her nothing.
Why not?
Because I was
loyal to him.
I've no idea why.
And then she started
punishing me.
She blamed me for my father
withdrawing his affections.
Because I was
"daddy's little girl."
And when I had
my first period,
she brought the bedsheets
to the breakfast table.
And said,
"Look what your precious
"little girl just did!"
Jesus.
I used to sit
in the back of the car
on the way to school
and I'd look
at the back
of her neck.
I'd just
stare at it
and think
all I have to do is just
put my hands round there
and just squeeze!
(LAUGHS)
Look at your little face!
You think I'm mad,
don't you?
But I am absolutely sane.
This has all
been planned.
I've been lying in wait
for them all this time.
All these people,
all these men,
they will have
their comeuppance,
just you see!
You have had your day,
Mr. Donald Ellis!
Professor Raymond Pattenden,
how dare you give me
a low second,
you corrupt little shit!
Dr. Ian Laird,
you are a fucking fraud!
And I shall report you
to the highest
medical authority
in the land!
You are finished!
I will finish you!
Because I'm the only one
who knows the truth,
do you understand me?
I'm the only one!
(KNOCK ON DOOR)
(MORNING HAS BROKEN
BY CAT STEVENS PLAYS)
BRAMAH: Hello?
Miss Small?
Quick, turn the lights off.
(LIGHT SWITCH CLICKS)
Don't speak.
Don't make a sound.
(KNOCKING ON DOOR)
BRAMAH: Miss Small?
It's Constable Bramah
from the Kent Police again.
We've got
social services with us.
Could you let us in, please?
(WHISPERS)
Just ignore them.
Bastards.
BRAMAH:
Miss Small?
We've received
further complaints
from other tenants
in the building
about loud music
and a general disturbance.
There's also reports
from Mrs. Van Dyck
in Flat Seven
that you've made
several very serious
verbal and physical
threats towards her.
(WHISPERS) Bitch.
BRAMAH:
I'm gonna need you
to open this door, please.
(WHISPERS)
Just stay quiet.
They'll go away.
ROSEMARY:
Miss Small?
Hilary?
It's Rosemary Bates here,
Kent Social Services.
We've met before.
Hilary,
could I come in,
please?
(WHISPERS)
Go now.
Out the back.
What?
Leave. Now.
The fire escape.
Why, Hilary?
I just wanna help.
You don't get it,
do you?
I don't want
your fucking help!
I am not your patient.
I am not some problem
to be solved.
ROSEMARY: Hilary, I'm afraid
if you don't open the door,
we are going
to have to
force entry.
Go now.
(ANGRILY)
Do I make
myself clear?
Do I?
Yes.
Good.
Then fuck off.
(DOOR THUDS LOUDLY)
Shit.
ROSEMARY: Hilary,
please open the door.
(DOOR THUDS LOUDLY)
Oh, for goodness sake!
Just go in there
and close the door.
(DOOR THUDS LOUDLY)
(DOOR THUDS LOUDLY)
ROSEMARY: Hilary,
please open the door.
(DOOR THUDS LOUDLY)
Hilary,
we're asking you
one last time.
Please, open the door.
(MORNING HAS BROKEN
BY CAT STEVENS CONTINUES)
(DOOR THUDS LOUDLY)
(SONG ENDS)
May we come in?
Hello, Hilary.
It looks like
things have got
a little bit
out of hand again.
Is that right?
You're all packed?
That's good.
A good few
days' sleep
and you'll be
feeling much better.
We've got
a first floor room
all nice
and ready for you.
This one's got
a view of the garden.
(MELLOW MUSIC PLAYING)
And two girls.
Romping through
the desert, splashing
into the ocean.
Listen for
the reel end bell.
(BELL RINGING)
Open the dowser.
Here comes
the first blob.
And do motor cue.
After the water,
we go on the sand.
Here comes
second blob.
California,
here I come!
Go!
Yes!
(LAUGHS)
NORMAN:
Excellent.
(CHUCKLES)
Now, get that one off,
lace up reel three.
And don't dick about.
Stephen,
can you do
the inventory
and then you can
clock off early?
Yeah,
of course.
Great.
(THUNDER RUMBLING)
REPORTER: (ON TV)
More than a hundred
white and colored youths
fought a pitched battle
against the police.
Some were as young as 12,
the oldest no more than 20.
It lasted for eight hours.
And at the end of it,
Merseyside's chief constable
said it was a planned attack.
"We were set up,"
he said.
The worst of the rioting
came just after dawn
when police faced a hail of
stones, bottles, iron bars...
I'm feeling very hot
with answers like that.
And now, I gave
a very respectable one.
(AUDIENCE LAUGHING ON TV)
That'd be
one pound ten,
please.
Thank you.
Stephen?
Ruby.
Wow. Hi.
Hi. I didn't know
you worked here.
Yeah. Yeah.
Uh, five months now.
I thought you
wanted to go
to university.
Yeah, well, I tried.
Still trying.
I'm not
at the hospital anymore.
Your mum probably
told you.
No, she didn't
say anything.
(WHISPERS)
It was the hours.
(LAUGHS)
Those early mornings.
I don't know how they do it.
Yeah, I know.
Uh, so, what do
you do now?
Well, for the time bein'
I'm working
at that bar
on the front.
Boodles.
Mmm.
It's fun.
You should pop in.
Maybe have a drink.
Yeah.
Might do that.
And in the meantime,
a box of Maltesers,
please.
(CHUCKLING)
Oh. Right,
yeah, of course.
Twenty P.
Thank you.
Uh, enjoy Stir Crazy.
It's brilliant.
Thanks.
See you soon, then?
Yeah,
see you soon.
(MELLOW MUSIC PLAYING)
(RUBY GIGGLING)
STEPHEN:
It's fine.
Like this.
Okay?
(MELLOW MUSIC
CONTINUES PLAYING)
(RUBY LAUGHING)
Did it.
(BOTH LAUGHING)
RUBY: So,
what're you gonna do?
STEPHEN:
I don't know.
Maybe stay here,
keep working
at the Empire.
Help Norman out.
Who?
Oh,
the projectionist.
He is funny.
And you know what?
I like it up there...
once you get
over the smell.
(LAUGHING)
Yeah, that's cool.
All those movies
for free.
Well, you don't
really get to watch
any of them.
Why not?
What is it?
STEPHEN: Nothing.
Someone I know.
RUBY:
Do you want
to say hello?
No, it's fine.
(STEPHEN SIGHS)
You okay?
Stevie?
What?
Yeah,
I'm fine.
You know what?
I do feel a bit...
I think I should
go back
and say hello.
Um, okay.
I'll be quick.
Hilary.
Hello.
How're you?
I'm good.
So, you're back.
Yes.
Out and about again.
That's good.
It's great
to see you.
We've missed you.
(CHUCKLES)
I'm sure
that's not true.
You should drop by
and say hello to everyone.
Mr. Ellis has left.
He moved
to Brighton.
Yes, Neil told me.
He called me
and asked me back.
Wow.
That's brilliant.
Hello.
Hi.
Hilary,
this is Ruby.
Ruby, this is Hilary
who I know from work.
So, hopefully,
see you soon?
Yes.
Thank you.
Thanks.
(COINS CLATTER)
Thank you.
STEPHEN:
Hilary?
Hilary?
Hilary, are you
all right?
Stephen.
Tell me truthfully,
did I humiliate myself?
What?
Tell me. Did I?
(SIGHS)
No. It wasn't
humiliating.
It was just...
intense.
To be honest,
I thought
you were a bit
of a hero.
(CHUCKLING)
That's very
nice of you.
Hard to believe.
My dad used
to take me fishing
when I was little.
We never
caught any fish.
And for years,
I just thought
he was a bad fisherman.
And then, I realized
it was something else.
Something quite simple.
He didn't know
where the fish were.
And he was too
ashamed to ask.
He was just ashamed.
Shame is not
a healthy condition.
You should try
to forget about it.
Go in there
more often.
No, I can't.
It's my job.
Yeah, you tear
the tickets.
Make sure
they're all
in their seats.
But you never go in.
You should watch
once in a while.
Yeah, sit in the middle
of a bunch of people
who don't know you,
who've never met you,
who can't even see you.
(SIGHS)
That little
beam of light
is escape.
I've missed you.
Come on.
We've got a little
surprise for you.
(ALL CHEERING)
Thank goodness
you're here
because I need
some of this cake!
(ALL CHEERING)
Ta-da!
JANINE:
Safeway's finest!
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
EMPLOYEE: That one.
(SPELLBOUND BY SIOUXSIE AND
THE BANSHEES PLAYS ON SPEAKER)
Janine, I've gotta admit.
This song is growin' on me.
Yeah,
it's good.
(RUMBLING IN DISTANCE)
What's that?
STEPHEN:
You played it for me.
U.S. Spin magazine.
You hear that?
Janine, can you
turn that down some?
(LOWERS VOLUME)
What's that noise?
(ENGINES REVVING OUTSIDE)
Wow!
Look at that.
RIOTER: Leave our
jobs alone!
Come on, skinheads!
RIOTER 2:
Leave our jobs alone!
Colored scum!
Off our streets!
Okay, right,
lock the doors.
(TENSE MUSIC PLAYING)
(LATCHES LOCKING)
RIOTER: White is right!
(RIOTERS CONTINUE SHOUTING)
(LAUGHING)
Hello, princess.
What we doing?
Look who it is, boys!
Let me in!
(RIOTERS SHOUTING
INDISTINCTLY)
Oh, my God!
(SHOUTING CONTINUES)
Hello, princess!
Where you fucking going?
Come on,
you fuckin' wog!
Come on then,
you bunch
of fucking cowards.
RIOTER: What did you
fuckin' say? Huh?
Look at you,
you can't do anything
on your own.
I ain't a coward,
you fuckin' spade!
Use your imagination,
you fucking coward!
(STEPHEN GROANS)
(TENSE MUSIC
CONTINUES PLAYING)
(IMPERCEPTIBLE)
No! Stop it!
(SHOUTING CONTINUES)
(POLICE SIREN WAILING)
RIOTER: Get off of me!
What the fuck?
Get the fuck off of me!
(CRYING)
(SIREN BLARING)
(STEPHEN
BREATHING HEAVILY)
You're going
to be all right.
You're strong.
(GASPS SOFTLY)
DOCTOR: What's happened?
PARAMEDIC:
He's had a kicking.
GCS had
dropped to six,
and he just lost
consciousness.
DOCTOR: Coming through.
Excuse me, please!
PARAMEDIC:
Respiration's at 35
per minute.
DOCTOR: Move, please!
Let's get him
straight into resus.
Are you
next of kin?
No, he's my friend,
I work with him.
Next of kin only
past this point.
But will he
be all right?
If you wanna wait here,
we'll let you know.
DELIA: Excuse me.
Are you waiting
for news of Stephen?
Yes.
He's going
to be all right.
(SIGHS)
Thank God.
Badly bruised
all over.
And he's lost
a couple of teeth...
but he's conscious.
And he wanted
you to know
that he was okay.
Oh, that's...
Thank you.
I'm so sorry.
Yes.
It's a bad situation.
Anyway, you can
go home now.
You must've been
waiting here
for hours.
Yeah. I'll just
get my things.
Are you the one
that he went
to the beach with?
Yes.
Yes, we did go
to the beach.
(SIGHS)
(SHOWER RUNNING)
(MELANCHOLY MUSIC PLAYING)
ANNOUNCER: (ON TV)
Now the time is almost
six-and-a-half
minutes past 12
and BBC One
is closing down.
So, from all
of us here,
this is Henry Brooks
wishing you
a very good night.
I have to say,
I miss our young friend.
I was getting used
to having someone
to help me
with all this.
Hmm.
You been
to visit him?
Couple of weeks ago.
Not since?
No.
Go and see him.
Don't run away.
Is that
what I'm doing?
Seems like it.
What're you
frightened of,
Hilary?
(SIGHS)
I've got a son.
Christopher.
He's 22 now.
Lives in London.
I haven't seen him
since he was eight.
What?
Doesn't want
to see me.
I don't blame him.
Basically,
I ran away.
Why?
What?
Why?
(LAUGHING)
I can't remember.
(CHUCKLES)
(MELLOW MUSIC PLAYING)
Hi. Can I go
to ward one?
Thank you.
Thank you.
A couple
of cracked ribs.
So, it's a bit sore
when I laugh.
But the swelling's
gone down.
My eyesight's okay. So...
I'm so sorry, Stephen.
I don't know what to say.
There's nothing
to say.
It's happened to my mum,
it's happened to me,
it'll probably happen
to my children.
Sometimes I think...
what's the fucking point?
Here. I got
you something.
It just came out.
I thought you might like it.
Oh, my God.
The chap in the shop
gave me a funny look.
But then, I suppose, I don't
look much like a "Rude Girl."
(LAUGHS, GROANS)
Sorry.
(GROANS)
That's so nice of you.
I didn't really get
what was so special
about it all before.
But, Black kids
and white kids
meeting up together
makes it all normal.
Yeah.
Good music, too.
DELIA: Hello.
It's okay, you don't
need to leave.
I'm just doing
last check-ups.
Oh, no,
I should go.
I've got stuff to do,
and it's getting late.
I don't want
to be a bother.
Bye, then.
Bye, Hilary.
Thanks for coming.
Bye.
Hilary.
Look, Hilary,
I don't know
what's gone on
between you two...
and I don't
really want to.
But you should know
that he was askin'
after you.
He likes you.
You cheer him up.
So...
(SENTIMENTAL MUSIC PLAYING)
Empire Cinema
on the front, please.
(ENGINE STARTS)
Show me a film.
What?
Show me a film.
I want to see a film.
What film?
Any film.
You choose.
(REEL WHIRRING)
(INAUDIBLE)
(SENTIMENTAL MUSIC
CONTINUES PLAYING)
CHANCE: I see.
That's a very
small room.
WILSON:
(CHUCKLES) Yes, sir.
I guess that's true.
Smallest room
in the house.
CHANCE: Yes,
I guess that's true.
I feel very
good in here.
RAND: (LAUGHS)
That's the oxygen.
CHANCE:
As long as the roots
are not severed,
all is well.
And all will be well
in the garden.
(CRYING SOFTLY)
PRESIDENT "BOBBY": Life...
is a state of mind.
(SNIFFLES)
(SWITCH CLICKS)
It was
just wonderful.
I can't wait
to see it again.
Yeah.
Peter Sellers
is the funniest.
You should see him in
Return of the Pink Panther.
(MIMICS INSPECTOR CLOUSEAU)
"I did not know
"the bank
was being robbed."
Hilarious.
I can't wait.
And there are
so many others.
I'm gonna need you
to make me a list.
Of course...
Look...
I was thinking we could
make it a weekly thing,
midnight screenings.
I'm sure we could
persuade Norman...
I've got a place
at college.
I'm going to college.
I got a letter
two weeks ago.
A place opened up.
Well, that's wonderful!
Where?
Bristol.
Architecture.
You did it.
(SENTIMENTAL MUSIC PLAYING)
You told me
not to give up.
Well, Stephen,
congratulations.
You deserve it.
(SIGHS)
When are you leaving?
Tomorrow.
Ah.
(DOOR OPENS)
What did you get?
New shoes.
Mmm-hmm.
And those books
for the course.
That's great.
Did you tell her?
Yeah.
Was she okay?
Yeah.
No.
I don't know.
(SIGHS)
Well...
As long as
you were kind.
Now, Ruby is comin'
for your goodbye dinner.
What are we gonna
make her?
(ALL LAUGHING)
No, no, no.
Don't break
the glass, Stevie.
Those are the good ones.
All right, Mum.
Calm down.
I'll be gone
tomorrow.
So here's
to the future.
Aw. (CHUCKLES)
And to good music.
RUBY: Mmm.
And to getting back up.
And here's to
Richard Pryor
and John Belushi...
and Mars Bars...
and sandcastles...
and my new suede shoes.
DELIA: Mmm.
And here's
to going away.
And coming home.
And now
I need to pee.
(RUBY LAUGHING)
God, Mrs. Murray.
He's so different
from before.
Mmm-hmm.
He's lived
a little bit
of life, I think.
(CLICKS TONGUE)
A little bit of life.
HILARY: Here.
Read it later.
Thanks, Hilary.
You're going to have
a wonderful time.
But I am going
to miss you.
Yeah.
I'll miss you, too.
Okay.
Off you go.
Okay.
So, I'll see you
in the holidays maybe.
Yeah.
That'd be lovely.
Okay...
Bye.
Bye.
Stephen!
(SENTIMENTAL MUSIC PLAYING)
(CONDUCTOR BLOWS WHISTLE)
HILARY: "The trees
are coming into leaf
"like something
almost being said.
"The recent buds
relax and spread.
"Their greenness
is a kind of grief.
"Is it that
they are born again
"and we grow old?
"No, they die, too.
"Their yearly trick
of looking new
"is written down
in rings of grain.
"Yet still the un-resting
castles thresh...
"In full-grown thickness
every May.
"Last year is dead,
they seem to say.
"Begin afresh...
"afresh...
"afresh."
(SENTIMENTAL MUSIC
CONTINUES PLAYING)
MUSIC PLAYING)
(SOLEMN INSTRUMENTAL
MUSIC CONTINUES PLAYING)
HILARY:
Thank you.
Thank you
for coming.
Thank you.
Merry Christmas.
NEIL: And I'm not
talkin' about a new
pair of trousers.
An old pair,
just lyin' there.
JANINE: Oh, yeah.
See, I used to do that.
When my mum
wouldn't let me wear
my miniskirt
out of the house.
I just got changed
in the back row.
NEIL: Also,
used nappy.
Popcorn bucket
with vomit inside.
JANINE: Ugh.
Yeah.
Whole cooked chicken
in a Safeway bag.
How about you,
Hils?
What's the worst
thing you've found?
Anything interesting?
Um, dead body.
Had a heart attack during
Smokey and the Bandit.
Took three people
to move him.
Bloody hell.
Well,
that's killed
the mood.
(LAUGHS)
(BOTH LAUGH)
What the fuck?
Blimey!
(CHUCKLES SOFTLY)
(SOFT INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC
PLAYING)
(INDISTINCT CHATTER,
LAUGHTER)
(SEABIRDS CAWING IN DISTANCE)
(SPITS)
(PLACES TOOTHBRUSH)
(HEAVY BREATHING)
(OPENS LID)
(PILLS RATTLING)
(CHORAL MUSIC
PLAYING FAINTLY
ON SPEAKERS)
(MUSIC STOPS)
LAIRD: Headaches?
Nausea?
No.
LAIRD: Sleeping all right?
Yes.
Good.
Shall we weigh you?
LAIRD: Mmm.
Not ideal.
Four pounds heavier.
How do you feel,
generally?
Fine.
LAIRD: Do you feel better
since leaving
St. Jude's?
Yes.
Any big
mood swings?
No, not really.
Good.
Stable.
That's good.
(LAIRD HUMMING TUNE)
I do feel a bit...
LAIRD: Hmm?
Numb, I suppose.
Well, I'm sure
that'll wear off
as soon as you get
used to the lithium.
It's marvelous stuff.
And you do have
people you could
talk to, I assume?
Family, friends?
Oh, yes.
(JERSEY BOUNCE
BY BENNY GOODMAN PLAYING)
Hilary, do you
have a partner?
Yes. No,
I don't think so.
Excellent.
This is Bill.
Bill,
this is Hilary.
How do you do?
Nice to meet you.
Apologies in advance.
(JERSEY BOUNCE CONTINUES)
NEIL: I mean,
it's so depressing.
He's just dronin'
on and on.
You wake me up
when it's over.
JANINE:
Oh, piss off!
(SINGING)
No, don't!
You're gonna
break it.
(NEIL WHIMPERING)
No, don't!
You're gonna
break it.
NEIL: Janine!
Stop the... (YELPS)
(LAUGHTER)
God,
you're a tosser.
I am a tosser,
but I did try.
Yeah.
Yeah, whatever.
Listen, come back,
Supertramp,
all is forgiven!
(SINGING)
(NEIL SCATTING)
(LAUGHTER)
(CONTINUES SINGING)
What on earth
is going on?
Sorry, Mr. Ellis,
Janine was playing us
something
on her Walkman.
ELLIS: Well,
you can all
calm down.
Janine, if you're
at a loose end,
perhaps you'd like
to come and do
tickets for us?
Trevor hasn't
shown up again,
so we're short.
JANINE:
But it's my
lunch break.
It doesn't look
like you were
eating much lunch.
Well, yeah,
'cause I haven't
had the chance yet.
My heart bleeds.
Outside.
(JANINE SIGHS)
Hilary, perhaps
you and I
could discuss
that whole
Trevor situation
in my office?
Ten minutes.
Yes, of course.
(ELLIS BREATHING HEAVILY)
ELLIS: Suck me.
HILARY: No.
Please.
Suck me off.
HILARY: No,
let's just keep...
(BOTH BREATHING HEAVILY)
Just like this.
Like this.
(DOOR CLOSING)
(YOU'RE BLASE BY ELLA
FITZGERALD PLAYING SOFTLY)
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
(DOOR OPENS)
WAITER:
Good evening, sir.
How can I help you?
ELLIS:
Table for two,
please.
(DOOR CLOSES)
WAITER: Can I
take your coat?
Thank you.
WAITER: May I take
your order, madam?
Oh, I'm not sure...
(HESITATES)
You know,
I've just realized,
I'm really late
for an appointment.
I'm terribly sorry.
(VEHICLES PASSING OUTSIDE)
So, Stephen here
will be replacing Trevor,
who was never
here anyway.
So, he's already off
to a flying start.
(CHUCKLES)
Anyway, this is Neil,
who does
Box Office mostly.
Nice to meet you.
Hiya.
Norman,
our projectionist.
All right?
Hello.
And Janine,
who'll be collecting
tickets with you.
Watch out
for her strange
musical tastes.
(CHUCKLES)
It can't be worse
than mine.
(GIGGLES) Hiya.
STEPHEN: Hi.
ELLIS:
Frankie, Brian
and Finn with the...
hair.
BOTH: Hello.
STEPHEN: Hey.
And our esteemed
duty manager, Hilary.
She also does
sweets and snacks.
Hello.
Hello.
So, I'll leave you all
to get better acquainted.
Hilary will
show you
the ropes.
Make sure you
take the packet
from the front
otherwise it never
gets sold
then it gets dusty.
Okay.
(EXHALES)
That smell must
make you hungry.
You're never tempted
to sneak a handful?
No.
I didn't mean
to steal it,
I just meant...
Try to keep a tab
of the items you sell
and then make sure
you replace them
at the end of your shift.
This is
Screen One.
Wicked.
HILARY: Mmm.
You'll have to do
final cleanup
if you're on
late shift.
Make sure to check
for sleepers.
(CHUCKLES)
Really?
Yes.
One chap
used to bring in
an air mattress.
(BOTH CHUCKLE)
Projection booth.
Don't go in.
Norman's very
particular.
You stand
at the bottom
of these stairs.
And, make sure
you keep hold
of the ticket stubs,
then bring them
back to me
so I can check them
against admissions.
Okay. So, when do we,
you know, open up?
Erm...
Twenty minutes.
What's up there?
Public aren't allowed.
Can I have
a look?
Oh, I'm not sure.
Go on.
Please.
STEPHEN:
Oh, my God.
It's a whole
other cinema.
HILARY:
Used to be
four screens.
HILARY:
Screen Three.
Screen Four.
(DOOR OPENS)
Best for last.
(CAPTIVATING MUSIC PLAYING)
(PIGEONS FLUTTERING)
Wow.
(FLUTTERING CONTINUES)
STEPHEN:
What a place.
HILARY:
It really
was beautiful.
It still is.
Another world.
(PIGEON COOING)
Look at this
little fellow.
It's all right.
(GRUNTS SOFTLY)
It's all right.
It's all right.
(SHUSHING)
(PIGEON CONTINUES COOING)
I think
he's broken
his wing.
(SIGHS)
He needs
a bit of help.
HILARY:
I don't think
he likes it.
STEPHEN:
It's okay,
he's fine.
Aren't you?
Here, hold him.
Oh, no, no.
I don't like birds.
Oh, come on. Look.
Come on.
Go like this.
(HILARY GASPS)
Oh.
There you go.
He loves it.
Look, he prefers you.
(CHUCKLES SOFTLY)
Now...
What're you doing?
Special trick.
You okay?
Yeah.
(CHUCKLES SOFTLY)
You ready?
Hold him still.
Yes.
HILARY: Oh.
(CHUCKLES)
Good boy.
You can put
him down now.
(BOTH CHUCKLE)
What happens
when he needs the loo?
(BOTH CHUCKLE)
NORMAN:
Nine across.
Five letters.
Word that starts
a Waste Land.
April.
Oh. (CHUCKLES)
Morning, Hils.
Morning.
Norman.
Got your glad rags
for tonight?
Yes.
And I brought
those in for later.
Ooh, I say!
So, we could go
down Misty's
off Tivoli Road,
if we can
get in.
Or that club,
Hades,
at the Lido...
Hello.
...has got
a good DJ.
Yeah,
maybe, yeah.
NEIL:
What's all that?
It's my stingy brim.
My three-button tonic
for tonight.
NEIL: Didn't have you
down as a Rude Boy.
What you
goin' on about?
Rude boy,
you know?
Two Tone.
NORMAN: Who-tone?
STEPHEN: Two Tone.
The Specials,
The Selecter,
The Beat.
I don't understand
a single word
you're sayin'.
(STEPHEN LAUGHS)
It is a bit
like reggae,
but dance music.
It's like
fast reggae.
Always fancied
one of these.
Yeah, you've got
the reggae ska side,
and then you've got
the punk side.
You know,
Black and white
together.
It's a melting pot.
JANINE: Mmm.
God help us.
STEPHEN:
What about you,
Hilary?
Gonna come
dance with us?
Oh, no, I shouldn't think so.
It's not really my thing.
Discotheques.
Bloody nightmare.
So, what're you
gonna do?
Um, I dunno, I thought
I might go onto the roof,
watch the fireworks.
Nice.
Where's all
your mates,
anyway?
Buggered off
to college.
Ah, that's where
I'm goin'.
NORMAN:
Good luck with that.
(JANINE LAUGHS)
STEPHEN: Well,
off we go, then.
Another day,
another four pounds fifty.
Oh, God.
Oh, my God.
He is such
a much of a hunk.
Now that
is on the cards.
(CLEARS THROAT)
Screen One,
top of the stairs. Enjoy.
JANINE: Upstairs,
Screen One. Okay?
Thank you.
Enjoy the film.
I'm looking
forward to it.
(JANINE LAUGHING)
Yes, sir.
That's the 8 o'clock
up and runnin'.
So, what time
are you clocking off?
Where are
the ticket stubs?
I gave 'em
to Janine.
Where's Janine?
Shit. I think
she went early.
You had one thing
I asked you to do.
One thing.
Yeah, I know,
but I thought
that I could...
(ANGRILY)
It's completely
unacceptable!
All right,
there's no need to...
It's unprofessional!
Impersonating
the customers,
laughing behind
their backs!
People come here
for a nice time,
not to be
laughed at!
Yeah, you're right.
I'm sorry.
Good.
Just don't
laugh at people.
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
(DOOR OPENS)
Hilary,
when you're
done later,
why don't you
pop into the office
for a quick drink?
Oh, I don't know.
No, come on.
Just for a few minutes.
Toast the new year.
All right.
That would be nice.
No invite
for me, I see.
HILARY: I can't.
(ELLIS GRUNTS)
Stop.
Why?
Who's this hurting?
Well, your wife,
for one.
She has no idea.
Doesn't mean
it's right.
Brenda doesn't
know me anymore.
We've been sleeping
in different rooms
since the summer.
She won't even
make me
a cup of tea.
You're the most
wonderful person.
You're so helpful.
I feel such
tenderness towards you.
Your arse
feels so good
in my hands.
(ELLIS BREATHING HEAVILY)
(ELLIS MOANS)
Here's to 1981.
God, lovely stuff, that.
Glenfiddich.
HILARY: Mmm.
So, any New Year's
resolutions?
No, not really.
Um, try to eat
a bit better, maybe.
I was thinking
perhaps I'd...
I'd like to expand
this place a bit.
Put it on the map.
Can I let you in
on a secret?
You mustn't
tell anyone.
What?
It looks like
we might be getting
a big South Coast premiere.
Mayor, councilors...
Herald, the lot.
Gosh.
Well, that would
be wonderful.
ELLIS:
Oh, I know.
Chariots of Fire.
That's the film.
It was between us
and the Odeon,
but they didn't want
a circuit cinema.
So, it looks like
we've got the nod.
So, we'll have
to spruce the place
up a bit.
Who knows?
Might be the beginning
of an exciting new chapter.
(CAR HONKING IN DISTANCE)
(KNOCKS AT DOOR)
Jesus!
Hello?
It's me, Stephen.
(CAR HORN BLARING)
Come in.
I was just leaving.
I wanted to apologize
for earlier.
Oh, really, it's fine.
I'm sorry I shouted.
Why didn't you go
with Janine?
I did, for a bit.
But I don't know
any of her mates,
and people,
you know, staring. So...
How awful
to feel watched.
Yeah, sometimes.
Anyway,
I thought you might
want company.
On the roof.
Oh, I'd almost
forgotten about that.
Yeah, okay.
Why not?
(SENTIMENTAL MUSIC PLAYING)
(STEPHEN GASPS)
STEPHEN:
Oh, wow.
This is so cool.
(CHUCKLES)
Look at that.
If I had some binoculars
I could almost see my mum.
Is that where you live?
Yeah.
(CORK POPS)
(DRINK POURING)
Do you always
come up here
on New Year's Eve?
Last couple of years.
I don't blame you.
Here. Not exactly Moet,
but it's better than Tizer.
Thank you.
I'm sorry
it's just us.
No, this is nice.
I'm not really a fan of
New Year's Eve, anyway.
Last year,
I puked on my new shoes.
Oh, no!
What happened to them?
(CHUCKLES)
They survived.
(HILARY LAUGHS)
Cheers.
Cheers.
Oh, come on!
Get it down ya!
Oh, no. I shouldn't.
I've had too much already.
Really? When?
Come on.
What are you,
a woman or a wouse?
What's that?
9 to 5.
You know, 9 to 5,
the film we're showing.
(WHISPERS) Oh.
Honestly, anyone would think
you worked in a bank, Hilary.
Why don't you
sneak in and watch?
Oh, no, no,
that's for the customers.
And it gets so busy out front,
there's always so much to do.
Oh, God,
listen to me,
I'm so boring.
Honestly.
(LAUGHS)
(BELLS TOLLING IN DISTANCE)
Oh, listen.
(BELLS CONTINUE TOLLING)
"Ring out, wild bells,
to the wild sky...
"the flying cloud
and the frosty light.
"The year is dying
in the night.
"Ring out,
wild bells,
and let him die."
Nice.
Tennyson.
PEOPLE:
(IN DISTANCE)
Ten, nine.
HILARY: Eight.
(ALONG WITH PEOPLE)
Seven, six...
five, four...
three, two, one!
PEOPLE:
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year!
(PEOPLE CHEERING)
(FIREWORKS BURSTING)
(FIREWORKS CONTINUE BURSTING)
Shit.
Hilary,
it's all right!
(SENTIMENTAL MUSIC PLAYING)
(MUSIC CONTINUES)
(IMPERCEPTIBLE)
(IMPERCEPTIBLE)
(MUSIC CONTINUES)
(IMPERCEPTIBLE)
Why not?
Because
it's pointless.
They turned
me down
the first time.
To study what?
Architecture.
Oh, that would
be wonderful!
Yeah.
You have
to try again.
Yeah, maybe.
Well, you can't
just give up.
Stephen?
Don't let them tell you
what you can or can't do.
No one's gonna give you
the life you want.
You have to go
out and get it.
You can't stay here.
All right.
MAN: Oi!
Oi!
Where you from?
MAN 2:
Where you goin', son?
MAN 1: Well,
they have
fuckin' bananas
where you come from,
did they?
Why don't you
fuck off
back home
where you
came from, yeah?
You fuckin' chimp.
Yeah, go home,
fuckin' coon.
We don't like wogs
'round here.
Taking our jobs.
Go, then.
Fuck off!
(MEN LAUGHING AND JEERING)
(MEN HOOTING MOCKINGLY)
MAN 2: Go home,
fucking coon.
NORMAN:
I told management
months ago.
There should be
a no-smoking rule
in both auditoria.
Smoke compromises
the viewing experience.
Ruins the projected image,
and it stains the screen.
Simple common sense.
All I'm saying is
you need a basic
understanding
of optical
and mechanical
principles.
to be in this game.
Like I keep
telling Ellis,
any old numpty
could sell tickets.
ELLIS: Morning.
Morning,
Mr. Ellis.
Morning, Norman.
Morning, all.
Hilary,
can you pop in
for a minute?
Nope.
I'm sorry?
No, I can't.
I'm running late.
I need to open up.
Suit yourself.
I was going to ask you
to work late tonight.
Brenda and I have
an engagement.
So, I'll need
to be gone by 5:00.
Sorry.
STEPHEN:
Screen Two.
Go on upstairs.
Enjoy the film.
Hello.
I think our
little friend
might need a visit.
It'll cheer him up.
(SEAGULLS CALLING)
STEPHEN: Nearly ready.
Open the window.
(PIGEON COOING)
Look at that.
Good as new.
Amazing.
Yeah.
Time to say goodbye.
Bye.
(HILARY GASPS SOFTLY)
STEPHEN:
There he goes.
To be able to fly.
Yeah.
(SOFT MUSIC PLAYING)
(BREATHING HEAVILY)
STEPHEN:
Trinidad,
originally.
They brought
my mum over
in the '60s
to train
as a nurse.
Apparently,
they needed
more workers.
"Help rebuild
the mother country,
"make your fortune."
(CHUCKLES)
She's still here,
still a nurse.
That explains
the pigeon splint.
(STEPHEN CHUCKLES)
You got me.
And here was me
thinking you were Jesus.
(BOTH CHUCKLE)
What about
your dad?
He was a bus driver.
But he left
years ago.
Where to?
I dunno.
Gosh.
How did you feel?
Fine.
It's always
been just me
and my mum.
She's the best.
Wish I could
say the same
for mine.
Was that...
you know?
Was it okay?
Yeah.
It was more
than okay.
(CHUCKLES SOFTLY)
Shit.
What time is it?
NEIL: Where
have you been?
Ellis left 20 minutes ago,
he said you were covering.
I'm so
sorry, Neil.
I've had to keep
them all
waiting outside!
And where's Stephen?
I don't know.
Is he not here?
STEPHEN: Sorry!
HILARY: So sorry!
Thank you very much.
Sorry to keep you.
Thank you.
Thank you
very much.
Thank you
so much.
Hello, there.
Sorry to keep you.
(YOU TURN ME ON, I'M A RADIO
BY JONI MITCHELL PLAYING)
♪ If you're driving into town
♪ With a dark cloud above you
♪ Dial in the number
♪ Who's bound to love you
♪ Oh, honey, you turn me on ♪
(YOU TURN ME ON, I'M A RADIO
CONTINUES ON RADIO)
(HUMMING ALONG)
♪ I'm a country station
I'm a little bit corny
♪ I'm a wildwood flower
waving for you
♪ I'm a broadcasting tower
waving for you
♪ And I'm sending you out
this signal here
♪ I hope you can pick it up
loud and clear
♪ I know you don't like
weak women
♪ You get bored so quick
♪ And you don't like
strong women
♪ 'Cause they're hip
to your tricks
♪ It's been dirty for dirty
♪ Down the line
♪ But you know
I come when you whistle
♪ When you're loving and kind
♪ But if you've got
too many doubts
♪ If there's no good reception
for me
♪ Then tune me out... ♪
Enjoy the film.
I'm so sorry, sir.
You have
to finish those
out here,
you can't bring
them in.
Why not?
Because those
are the rules.
It's my breakfast.
I know, but you've got
a couple of minutes
before the film starts.
I'll miss
the comin' attractions.
Well, it's up to you.
(SCOFFS)
Are you fuckin' serious?
Yes.
Are you gonna
stand there
and let me be
bossed around
by this...?
By this...
what?
By this what?
Okay, now,
Mr. Cooper.
You haven't got
many chips left, look.
You could eat a few
and then give
the rest to me.
I like a chip.
(GULPING)
Happy now?
So sorry.
Sorry, Stephen,
he's always
a bit of a handful.
He's a dickhead.
You okay?
Stephen?
Stephen?
Stephen?
(HORN BLARES)
It's no point
walking out.
There's every
fuckin' point.
He's just
an angry man.
He's always angry
about something.
Look, Hilary, I know
you're trying to help,
but you're just
makin' it worse.
How am I
making it worse?
By pretending
it isn't there.
I really don't
know what you're
talking about.
All right,
put it this way.
He's not just
"angry," is he?
And he should
be the one
to leave.
Not me.
You're absolutely
right, Stephen.
I'm sorry.
Really.
Okay, this might
be the moment
to demonstrate
my greatest talent.
HILARY: Does it
happen a lot?
Yeah, more
than it used to.
Especially
the last few months.
Really?
Well, yeah.
It's everywhere,
isn't it?
Is it?
Yes, it is.
All that stuff
in Brixton.
And the skinheads.
And Thatcher.
And those kids
in New Cross.
What was
New Cross?
Couple of weeks ago,
at this girl's
16th birthday party
someone started a fire.
No one
came for them.
You should read
the newspapers, Hilary.
It's not goin' away.
Told you,
you need to hold
it sideways.
Yeah, not bad.
Still some
training needed.
Look, watch this. Okay?
(HILARY CHUCKLES)
I lied.
I'm shit at it.
(CHUCKLES)
Kiss me.
No one's looking.
(SENTIMENTAL MUSIC PLAYING)
Four canisters at a time,
'cause they're not light.
And lift 'em carefully.
Precious cargo.
(NORMAN GRUNTS)
Put 'em
down there.
Tea?
Please.
You can go in
if you want.
(SPOON CLANKING SOFTLY)
(SPOON CLATTERS)
These are my babies.
Pair of model 18 Kalees.
I had no idea
they'd be so big.
Well, that's just
as it should be.
You don't want
people to know.
They should just see
a beam of light.
But back here...
it's belts, straps,
pulleys,
intermittents...
sprockets.
Complex machinery.
And what's this?
That's the carbons.
Spark between
the carbons
makes the light.
And nothing happens
without light.
Ciggy?
No, thanks.
Amazin'.
It is amazing.
Because it's just
static frames,
with darkness
in between.
But there's a little flaw
in your optic nerve
so that if I run the film
at 24 frames per second,
you don't see the darkness.
(CHUCKLES) Wow.
It's called
the Phi Phenomenon.
Viewing static
images rapidly
in succession
creates
an illusion
of motion.
Illusion of life.
ELLIS: So, on top of
the lobby needing
a lick of paint
and all the rest,
we're going to need
special signage,
a red carpet,
crash barriers
for the crowds.
And I believe
the mayor's office
will provide some
security. Jim?
Yes, yes,
indeed.
There will be
a small security detail.
And you can
expect the mayor,
of course
and his entourage,
which is not insubstantial.
And we're waiting
for confirmation,
but guests
look to include
Dora Bryan,
Sir Laurence Olivier,
Steve Ovett,
Dame Flora Robson,
Dusty Springfield
and possibly,
Paul McCartney.
(HILARY GASPS SOFTLY)
Goodness.
Mmm.
Yes, I know.
Lives in Rye.
Hmm.
Two pounds down
since last time.
Well done.
Well, I've been
trying to take a bit
more exercise,
eating better,
you know.
And the lithium?
How's that?
Good.
Last time you said
that it made you feel
a little out of sorts.
Yes, it's much
better now.
I think my system
must be getting
used to it.
Really?
Yeah,
much better.
Excellent.
(HILARY HUMMING)
(DO NOTHING
BY THE SPECIALS PLAYING)
What're you doing?
No one's watchin' you!
Shut up,
look the other way.
Why?
I've seen it all.
Don't be vulgar.
It's different
in the throes
of passion.
Well, I can't
be bothered.
I am going...
What're you doing?
(GASPS)
(STEPHEN LAUGHS)
HILARY: No!
(LAUGHS)
STEPHEN: Charge!
(LAUGHING)
(HILARY GASPS, LAUGHS)
(DO NOTHING CONTINUES PLAYING)
(SEAGULLS CALLING)
HILARY: Where did
you meet her?
STEPHEN: She was
one of the nurses
on my mum's ward.
HILARY: She your first
serious girlfriend?
Yeah.
Broke my heart.
Cried for a week.
I still can't go
near the hospital
without getting
butterflies.
Goodness.
Yeah, I just couldn't
stop thinkin' about her,
you know?
What about you?
Oh, nothing
as grand as that.
There must have
been someone.
Hilary?
Mind your own business.
Okay.
That one's different
to the others.
I wasn't aware
I was working
under instruction.
I'm just saying.
Well, thank you.
Thank you so much.
Why you doing that?
You're spoilin' it.
I am not working
under instruction.
All right, fine.
Do what you want.
I shall.
Thank you.
God, you men,
you always
have to help us.
Always have to instruct us.
Don't be silly.
Got your hands
around our fucking throats
and you won't let go.
(ANGRILY) Got your hands
around our fucking necks
and we can't breathe.
But you won't
let go, will you?
You won't fucking
well let go!
Why don't you just...
Hilary!
...fucking let go?
Stop.
What're you doin'?
(PANTING)
You won't fucking
well let go, will you?
(BREATHING HEAVILY)
(GRUNTS)
(BREATHING HEAVILY)
(SOMBER MUSIC PLAYING)
Are you sure
you'll be okay
getting home?
Yeah.
You?
Oh, I'll be fine.
I'm in early tomorrow
to open up.
Maybe see you then?
(HILARY BREATHING HEAVILY)
(SEAGULLS CALLING)
NEIL: Morning.
Morning.
Listen...
Hilary,
I know it's none
of my business,
but perhaps
it might be better
to leave your
personal life
at home.
What?
Rather than
upstairs, in the,
you know...
in the pigeon coop.
I don't know
what you mean.
Oh, come on.
Look, be careful.
Hils, remember
what happened before.
Just look
after yourself.
I don't know
how he knew,
he just knew.
I think he might
have seen us
coming downstairs
together the other day.
It's fine.
We just need
to be more discreet.
Perhaps just meet
outside of work?
Look,
maybe it's not
a good idea.
What do you mean?
Well, this.
The whole thing.
Why?
Well, once people
know it, it's different.
Really?
Yeah, it's just...
It feels different.
You're embarrassed.
No, I'm not.
And that's not,
that's not what I'm saying.
Yes, you are,
you're embarrassed.
I just don't...
Of course you are.
It's silly.
It's ridiculous.
What were we thinking?
I'm not embarrassed,
Hilary.
I just don't think
we can do this.
No, you're absolutely right.
I'll see you soon.
(KISSES)
(SIGHS)
(BOLT UNLATCHES)
(SOBBING)
(OLD ROCK MUSIC
PLAYING ON SPEAKERS)
Have either
of you two
seen the keys
to the utility
cupboard?
Oh, I dunno.
I think Hilary
had them.
Oh.
There you go.
Thanks.
NEIL: You heard
from Hilary?
No.
It's been
three days.
She told Mr. Ellis
she was taking
some overdue holiday.
I'm sure
it's all fine.
So why am I worried?
She had
a rough time
last year.
She had to go
away for a while
in the summer.
Why?
I think things just got
a bit much for her.
She ended up being
rude to a couple
of the customers.
Shouting at them.
She was staying later
and later at work.
Said she couldn't sleep.
And started doing weird...
things.
Eventually, Ellis told us
she had to go into hospital.
She was away
for a few weeks
and when she got back
she was different.
How?
Just quieter.
A bit sad.
Did you speak
to her about it?
She didn't wanna talk.
(DOORBELL BUZZING)
(DOORBELL BUZZING)
♪ Sex, they dare
♪ To push fake morals,
insult and stare
♪ While money doesn't talk,
it swears
♪ Obscenity, who really cares
Propaganda, all is phony ♪
(BUZZING CONTINUES)
♪ While them that defend
what they cannot see
♪ With a killer's pride,
security
♪ It blows the minds
most bitterly
♪ For them that think
death's honesty
♪ Won't fall
upon 'em naturally
♪ Life sometimes
must get lonely
♪ My eyes collide head-on
with stuffed
♪ Graveyards, false goals,
I scuff
♪ At pettiness
which plays so rough
♪ Walk upside down
inside handcuffs
♪ Kick my legs to crash it off
♪ Say, okay, I've had enough
♪ What else can you show me?
♪ And if my thought-dreams
could be seen
♪ They'd probably put my head
in a guillotine
♪ But it's alright, Ma
♪ It's life, and life only ♪
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
JANINE:
Enjoy.
Uh, hi!
(INDISTINCT CHATTER CONTINUES)
JANINE:
Enjoy.
HILARY: My dear
young man!
Don't you look
absolutely glorious!
Hilary! Hi.
Yes, I know,
I don't have a ticket.
But it's all right,
I work here.
I taught him
everything he knows.
Hello!
Darling!
(APPLAUSE)
ELLIS: My worshipful
Lord Mayor
and Lady Mayoress,
Councilor Rushworth,
Councilor Booth.
My lords, ladies
and gentlemen,
good evening.
My name
is Donald Ellis.
I am the manager
of the Empire Cinema,
perhaps the South Coast's
premier film venue.
It is a great honor...
perhaps the greatest
of my career
to welcome you to this,
the regional
gala premiere
of Chariots of Fire.
(APPLAUSE)
Uh, there are
a few people
I need to thank.
Uh, the mayor's office,
obviously.
(WHISPERS)
Where's the mayor?
ELLIS: And in particular,
Jim Booth for his help...
(WHISPERS) There.
Next to Ellis' wife.
(MOUTHING)
ELLIS: ...and
his sage advice.
And all the staff here.
Uh, Hilary's here.
ELLIS:
At the Empire,
for their hard work
and dedication.
What? Where?
ELLIS: And lastly...
Somewhere in the building.
ELLIS:
...my wife,
Brenda...
Is she all right?
ELLIS: ...whose unstinted
support and love...
I'm not sure.
...have been unwavering.
And so,
without further ado...
I am delighted
to welcome you
to Hugh Hudson's stirring
and altogether terrific...
Chariots of Fire.
(APPLAUSE)
ELLIS:
What're you doing?
Oh, no.
(APPLAUSE)
Good evening, my lords,
ladies and gentlemen.
Mr. Mayor.
My name
is Hilary Small.
I am duty manager
here at the Empire.
And as such,
I thought I'd add
a few words of welcome.
Tonight is a special night.
More than ever,
we need to be...
We need to feel
part of a community.
Black or white,
it doesn't matter.
It's a very
important thing.
We must celebrate.
(MIC FEEDBACK WHINES)
So, to mark the occasion,
I'd like to read a poem
I think would be appropriate.
It's by W. H. Auden.
"The desires of the heart
are as crooked as corkscrews.
"Not to be born
is the best for man...
"the second best
is a formal order...
"the dance's pattern.
"Dance while you can.
"Dance, dance,
for the figure is easy...
"the tune is catching
and will not stop.
"Dance till the stars
come down from the rafters.
"Dance, dance,
dance till you drop."
Thank you.
(APPLAUSE)
Hilary!
What the hell
do you think
you're doing?
You were not
invited to speak.
Well, it can't be
all men droning on.
You knew
what this evening
meant to me, Hilary.
You more
than anyone.
And yet you willfully
tried to ruin it.
Well, I'm terribly sorry,
but you can't
always have it
your own way!
Well, you've got
a problem.
You know that?
You need
serious help.
Now, we've all tried
to help you here,
but at some
point you need
...to take
responsibility
for your own...
And why don't you go
and fuck yourself!
Donald?
What're you doing?
Why aren't you inside?
The film's started.
Oh, hello,
Brenda.
I've been
wanting to meet.
I think about
you daily.
BRENDA: I don't understand.
Well,
so many questions
for a start.
And so many
notes to compare.
I'm still unclear.
Mostly about
your husband's
sexual tastes.
Hilary,
for God's sake.
What do you mean?
ELLIS: Brenda,
this is nonsense.
Don't listen
to a word she says.
"To fuck or not to fuck,
that is the question.
"Whether 'tis nobler
in the minds
"to wank him off
into his teacup,
"or let him fuck me
over his desk
"and spoil
all his paperwork?"
Is this true?
Donald,
is this true?
NEIL: Yes.
Yes, it's true.
(NORMAN SIGHS)
Well, first reel's
goin' off beautifully.
What the hell
are you doing?
Telling the truth.
What a novel idea!
That's not the truth.
I'll tell you the truth.
You're a schizophrenic.
You're a fucking nutter!
And the only reason
you're working here
is because
I told the social workers
I'd keep
an eye on you.
You're unemployable.
If you want to find
the condoms,
they are in
the top left-hand
drawer of his desk,
next to the Murray Mints.
Right, so,
what're we gonna do?
Well, Ellis says
he doesn't want
her back at work.
Apparently, she'd already
threatened to smash
all his windows
with a golf club.
What?
Is that really true?
I wouldn't put it
past her.
He's called
the social services.
They'll probably
take her back
into hospital.
Well, how come
he gets away
with it?
It just seems so unfair.
Look, she's probably
better off in St. Jude's.
How can she be better off
in a mental hospital?
They know
how to deal with it.
No.
What are you doing?
Well, I'm going
to see her.
I don't think
that's a good idea.
I'm not sure
how much help
you can be.
Well, I can't just
turn my back on her.
Leave her on her own.
I can't.
Hilary!
(SEAGULLS CALLING IN DISTANCE)
(DOORBELL BUZZING)
(DOOR BUZZES OPEN)
What do
you want?
I'm worried
about you.
Well,
that's terribly sweet,
but I don't need
your concern.
I thought you might
want company,
someone to talk to.
I'm absolutely fine!
Jesus Christ,
what is wrong
with you people?
All right,
all right.
But I just need
to say this.
What you're going through
is a medical condition,
it's an illness.
And I wanted
to make sure
that you understand
that it's not your fault.
(LAUGHING)
Did you take a guide book
out of the library for me?
Oh, dear.
What's so funny?
You don't have
to try so hard.
(LAUGHS, KISSES)
Just pour me
a glass of wine.
(THE WIND
BY CAT STEVENS
PLAYING SOFTLY)
HILARY: And they said,
"No, you can't go in there.
"You're not allowed."
So, I sat there
like a good little girl
with my schoolbag
at my feet.
And I waited.
And I knew it as soon
as my father stepped
into the room,
I could smell
the sex on them.
Such a fucking cliche!
Sex with the secretary.
I think
my mother knew.
She kept asking me
but I told her nothing.
Why not?
Because I was
loyal to him.
I've no idea why.
And then she started
punishing me.
She blamed me for my father
withdrawing his affections.
Because I was
"daddy's little girl."
And when I had
my first period,
she brought the bedsheets
to the breakfast table.
And said,
"Look what your precious
"little girl just did!"
Jesus.
I used to sit
in the back of the car
on the way to school
and I'd look
at the back
of her neck.
I'd just
stare at it
and think
all I have to do is just
put my hands round there
and just squeeze!
(LAUGHS)
Look at your little face!
You think I'm mad,
don't you?
But I am absolutely sane.
This has all
been planned.
I've been lying in wait
for them all this time.
All these people,
all these men,
they will have
their comeuppance,
just you see!
You have had your day,
Mr. Donald Ellis!
Professor Raymond Pattenden,
how dare you give me
a low second,
you corrupt little shit!
Dr. Ian Laird,
you are a fucking fraud!
And I shall report you
to the highest
medical authority
in the land!
You are finished!
I will finish you!
Because I'm the only one
who knows the truth,
do you understand me?
I'm the only one!
(KNOCK ON DOOR)
(MORNING HAS BROKEN
BY CAT STEVENS PLAYS)
BRAMAH: Hello?
Miss Small?
Quick, turn the lights off.
(LIGHT SWITCH CLICKS)
Don't speak.
Don't make a sound.
(KNOCKING ON DOOR)
BRAMAH: Miss Small?
It's Constable Bramah
from the Kent Police again.
We've got
social services with us.
Could you let us in, please?
(WHISPERS)
Just ignore them.
Bastards.
BRAMAH:
Miss Small?
We've received
further complaints
from other tenants
in the building
about loud music
and a general disturbance.
There's also reports
from Mrs. Van Dyck
in Flat Seven
that you've made
several very serious
verbal and physical
threats towards her.
(WHISPERS) Bitch.
BRAMAH:
I'm gonna need you
to open this door, please.
(WHISPERS)
Just stay quiet.
They'll go away.
ROSEMARY:
Miss Small?
Hilary?
It's Rosemary Bates here,
Kent Social Services.
We've met before.
Hilary,
could I come in,
please?
(WHISPERS)
Go now.
Out the back.
What?
Leave. Now.
The fire escape.
Why, Hilary?
I just wanna help.
You don't get it,
do you?
I don't want
your fucking help!
I am not your patient.
I am not some problem
to be solved.
ROSEMARY: Hilary, I'm afraid
if you don't open the door,
we are going
to have to
force entry.
Go now.
(ANGRILY)
Do I make
myself clear?
Do I?
Yes.
Good.
Then fuck off.
(DOOR THUDS LOUDLY)
Shit.
ROSEMARY: Hilary,
please open the door.
(DOOR THUDS LOUDLY)
Oh, for goodness sake!
Just go in there
and close the door.
(DOOR THUDS LOUDLY)
(DOOR THUDS LOUDLY)
ROSEMARY: Hilary,
please open the door.
(DOOR THUDS LOUDLY)
Hilary,
we're asking you
one last time.
Please, open the door.
(MORNING HAS BROKEN
BY CAT STEVENS CONTINUES)
(DOOR THUDS LOUDLY)
(SONG ENDS)
May we come in?
Hello, Hilary.
It looks like
things have got
a little bit
out of hand again.
Is that right?
You're all packed?
That's good.
A good few
days' sleep
and you'll be
feeling much better.
We've got
a first floor room
all nice
and ready for you.
This one's got
a view of the garden.
(MELLOW MUSIC PLAYING)
And two girls.
Romping through
the desert, splashing
into the ocean.
Listen for
the reel end bell.
(BELL RINGING)
Open the dowser.
Here comes
the first blob.
And do motor cue.
After the water,
we go on the sand.
Here comes
second blob.
California,
here I come!
Go!
Yes!
(LAUGHS)
NORMAN:
Excellent.
(CHUCKLES)
Now, get that one off,
lace up reel three.
And don't dick about.
Stephen,
can you do
the inventory
and then you can
clock off early?
Yeah,
of course.
Great.
(THUNDER RUMBLING)
REPORTER: (ON TV)
More than a hundred
white and colored youths
fought a pitched battle
against the police.
Some were as young as 12,
the oldest no more than 20.
It lasted for eight hours.
And at the end of it,
Merseyside's chief constable
said it was a planned attack.
"We were set up,"
he said.
The worst of the rioting
came just after dawn
when police faced a hail of
stones, bottles, iron bars...
I'm feeling very hot
with answers like that.
And now, I gave
a very respectable one.
(AUDIENCE LAUGHING ON TV)
That'd be
one pound ten,
please.
Thank you.
Stephen?
Ruby.
Wow. Hi.
Hi. I didn't know
you worked here.
Yeah. Yeah.
Uh, five months now.
I thought you
wanted to go
to university.
Yeah, well, I tried.
Still trying.
I'm not
at the hospital anymore.
Your mum probably
told you.
No, she didn't
say anything.
(WHISPERS)
It was the hours.
(LAUGHS)
Those early mornings.
I don't know how they do it.
Yeah, I know.
Uh, so, what do
you do now?
Well, for the time bein'
I'm working
at that bar
on the front.
Boodles.
Mmm.
It's fun.
You should pop in.
Maybe have a drink.
Yeah.
Might do that.
And in the meantime,
a box of Maltesers,
please.
(CHUCKLING)
Oh. Right,
yeah, of course.
Twenty P.
Thank you.
Uh, enjoy Stir Crazy.
It's brilliant.
Thanks.
See you soon, then?
Yeah,
see you soon.
(MELLOW MUSIC PLAYING)
(RUBY GIGGLING)
STEPHEN:
It's fine.
Like this.
Okay?
(MELLOW MUSIC
CONTINUES PLAYING)
(RUBY LAUGHING)
Did it.
(BOTH LAUGHING)
RUBY: So,
what're you gonna do?
STEPHEN:
I don't know.
Maybe stay here,
keep working
at the Empire.
Help Norman out.
Who?
Oh,
the projectionist.
He is funny.
And you know what?
I like it up there...
once you get
over the smell.
(LAUGHING)
Yeah, that's cool.
All those movies
for free.
Well, you don't
really get to watch
any of them.
Why not?
What is it?
STEPHEN: Nothing.
Someone I know.
RUBY:
Do you want
to say hello?
No, it's fine.
(STEPHEN SIGHS)
You okay?
Stevie?
What?
Yeah,
I'm fine.
You know what?
I do feel a bit...
I think I should
go back
and say hello.
Um, okay.
I'll be quick.
Hilary.
Hello.
How're you?
I'm good.
So, you're back.
Yes.
Out and about again.
That's good.
It's great
to see you.
We've missed you.
(CHUCKLES)
I'm sure
that's not true.
You should drop by
and say hello to everyone.
Mr. Ellis has left.
He moved
to Brighton.
Yes, Neil told me.
He called me
and asked me back.
Wow.
That's brilliant.
Hello.
Hi.
Hilary,
this is Ruby.
Ruby, this is Hilary
who I know from work.
So, hopefully,
see you soon?
Yes.
Thank you.
Thanks.
(COINS CLATTER)
Thank you.
STEPHEN:
Hilary?
Hilary?
Hilary, are you
all right?
Stephen.
Tell me truthfully,
did I humiliate myself?
What?
Tell me. Did I?
(SIGHS)
No. It wasn't
humiliating.
It was just...
intense.
To be honest,
I thought
you were a bit
of a hero.
(CHUCKLING)
That's very
nice of you.
Hard to believe.
My dad used
to take me fishing
when I was little.
We never
caught any fish.
And for years,
I just thought
he was a bad fisherman.
And then, I realized
it was something else.
Something quite simple.
He didn't know
where the fish were.
And he was too
ashamed to ask.
He was just ashamed.
Shame is not
a healthy condition.
You should try
to forget about it.
Go in there
more often.
No, I can't.
It's my job.
Yeah, you tear
the tickets.
Make sure
they're all
in their seats.
But you never go in.
You should watch
once in a while.
Yeah, sit in the middle
of a bunch of people
who don't know you,
who've never met you,
who can't even see you.
(SIGHS)
That little
beam of light
is escape.
I've missed you.
Come on.
We've got a little
surprise for you.
(ALL CHEERING)
Thank goodness
you're here
because I need
some of this cake!
(ALL CHEERING)
Ta-da!
JANINE:
Safeway's finest!
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
EMPLOYEE: That one.
(SPELLBOUND BY SIOUXSIE AND
THE BANSHEES PLAYS ON SPEAKER)
Janine, I've gotta admit.
This song is growin' on me.
Yeah,
it's good.
(RUMBLING IN DISTANCE)
What's that?
STEPHEN:
You played it for me.
U.S. Spin magazine.
You hear that?
Janine, can you
turn that down some?
(LOWERS VOLUME)
What's that noise?
(ENGINES REVVING OUTSIDE)
Wow!
Look at that.
RIOTER: Leave our
jobs alone!
Come on, skinheads!
RIOTER 2:
Leave our jobs alone!
Colored scum!
Off our streets!
Okay, right,
lock the doors.
(TENSE MUSIC PLAYING)
(LATCHES LOCKING)
RIOTER: White is right!
(RIOTERS CONTINUE SHOUTING)
(LAUGHING)
Hello, princess.
What we doing?
Look who it is, boys!
Let me in!
(RIOTERS SHOUTING
INDISTINCTLY)
Oh, my God!
(SHOUTING CONTINUES)
Hello, princess!
Where you fucking going?
Come on,
you fuckin' wog!
Come on then,
you bunch
of fucking cowards.
RIOTER: What did you
fuckin' say? Huh?
Look at you,
you can't do anything
on your own.
I ain't a coward,
you fuckin' spade!
Use your imagination,
you fucking coward!
(STEPHEN GROANS)
(TENSE MUSIC
CONTINUES PLAYING)
(IMPERCEPTIBLE)
No! Stop it!
(SHOUTING CONTINUES)
(POLICE SIREN WAILING)
RIOTER: Get off of me!
What the fuck?
Get the fuck off of me!
(CRYING)
(SIREN BLARING)
(STEPHEN
BREATHING HEAVILY)
You're going
to be all right.
You're strong.
(GASPS SOFTLY)
DOCTOR: What's happened?
PARAMEDIC:
He's had a kicking.
GCS had
dropped to six,
and he just lost
consciousness.
DOCTOR: Coming through.
Excuse me, please!
PARAMEDIC:
Respiration's at 35
per minute.
DOCTOR: Move, please!
Let's get him
straight into resus.
Are you
next of kin?
No, he's my friend,
I work with him.
Next of kin only
past this point.
But will he
be all right?
If you wanna wait here,
we'll let you know.
DELIA: Excuse me.
Are you waiting
for news of Stephen?
Yes.
He's going
to be all right.
(SIGHS)
Thank God.
Badly bruised
all over.
And he's lost
a couple of teeth...
but he's conscious.
And he wanted
you to know
that he was okay.
Oh, that's...
Thank you.
I'm so sorry.
Yes.
It's a bad situation.
Anyway, you can
go home now.
You must've been
waiting here
for hours.
Yeah. I'll just
get my things.
Are you the one
that he went
to the beach with?
Yes.
Yes, we did go
to the beach.
(SIGHS)
(SHOWER RUNNING)
(MELANCHOLY MUSIC PLAYING)
ANNOUNCER: (ON TV)
Now the time is almost
six-and-a-half
minutes past 12
and BBC One
is closing down.
So, from all
of us here,
this is Henry Brooks
wishing you
a very good night.
I have to say,
I miss our young friend.
I was getting used
to having someone
to help me
with all this.
Hmm.
You been
to visit him?
Couple of weeks ago.
Not since?
No.
Go and see him.
Don't run away.
Is that
what I'm doing?
Seems like it.
What're you
frightened of,
Hilary?
(SIGHS)
I've got a son.
Christopher.
He's 22 now.
Lives in London.
I haven't seen him
since he was eight.
What?
Doesn't want
to see me.
I don't blame him.
Basically,
I ran away.
Why?
What?
Why?
(LAUGHING)
I can't remember.
(CHUCKLES)
(MELLOW MUSIC PLAYING)
Hi. Can I go
to ward one?
Thank you.
Thank you.
A couple
of cracked ribs.
So, it's a bit sore
when I laugh.
But the swelling's
gone down.
My eyesight's okay. So...
I'm so sorry, Stephen.
I don't know what to say.
There's nothing
to say.
It's happened to my mum,
it's happened to me,
it'll probably happen
to my children.
Sometimes I think...
what's the fucking point?
Here. I got
you something.
It just came out.
I thought you might like it.
Oh, my God.
The chap in the shop
gave me a funny look.
But then, I suppose, I don't
look much like a "Rude Girl."
(LAUGHS, GROANS)
Sorry.
(GROANS)
That's so nice of you.
I didn't really get
what was so special
about it all before.
But, Black kids
and white kids
meeting up together
makes it all normal.
Yeah.
Good music, too.
DELIA: Hello.
It's okay, you don't
need to leave.
I'm just doing
last check-ups.
Oh, no,
I should go.
I've got stuff to do,
and it's getting late.
I don't want
to be a bother.
Bye, then.
Bye, Hilary.
Thanks for coming.
Bye.
Hilary.
Look, Hilary,
I don't know
what's gone on
between you two...
and I don't
really want to.
But you should know
that he was askin'
after you.
He likes you.
You cheer him up.
So...
(SENTIMENTAL MUSIC PLAYING)
Empire Cinema
on the front, please.
(ENGINE STARTS)
Show me a film.
What?
Show me a film.
I want to see a film.
What film?
Any film.
You choose.
(REEL WHIRRING)
(INAUDIBLE)
(SENTIMENTAL MUSIC
CONTINUES PLAYING)
CHANCE: I see.
That's a very
small room.
WILSON:
(CHUCKLES) Yes, sir.
I guess that's true.
Smallest room
in the house.
CHANCE: Yes,
I guess that's true.
I feel very
good in here.
RAND: (LAUGHS)
That's the oxygen.
CHANCE:
As long as the roots
are not severed,
all is well.
And all will be well
in the garden.
(CRYING SOFTLY)
PRESIDENT "BOBBY": Life...
is a state of mind.
(SNIFFLES)
(SWITCH CLICKS)
It was
just wonderful.
I can't wait
to see it again.
Yeah.
Peter Sellers
is the funniest.
You should see him in
Return of the Pink Panther.
(MIMICS INSPECTOR CLOUSEAU)
"I did not know
"the bank
was being robbed."
Hilarious.
I can't wait.
And there are
so many others.
I'm gonna need you
to make me a list.
Of course...
Look...
I was thinking we could
make it a weekly thing,
midnight screenings.
I'm sure we could
persuade Norman...
I've got a place
at college.
I'm going to college.
I got a letter
two weeks ago.
A place opened up.
Well, that's wonderful!
Where?
Bristol.
Architecture.
You did it.
(SENTIMENTAL MUSIC PLAYING)
You told me
not to give up.
Well, Stephen,
congratulations.
You deserve it.
(SIGHS)
When are you leaving?
Tomorrow.
Ah.
(DOOR OPENS)
What did you get?
New shoes.
Mmm-hmm.
And those books
for the course.
That's great.
Did you tell her?
Yeah.
Was she okay?
Yeah.
No.
I don't know.
(SIGHS)
Well...
As long as
you were kind.
Now, Ruby is comin'
for your goodbye dinner.
What are we gonna
make her?
(ALL LAUGHING)
No, no, no.
Don't break
the glass, Stevie.
Those are the good ones.
All right, Mum.
Calm down.
I'll be gone
tomorrow.
So here's
to the future.
Aw. (CHUCKLES)
And to good music.
RUBY: Mmm.
And to getting back up.
And here's to
Richard Pryor
and John Belushi...
and Mars Bars...
and sandcastles...
and my new suede shoes.
DELIA: Mmm.
And here's
to going away.
And coming home.
And now
I need to pee.
(RUBY LAUGHING)
God, Mrs. Murray.
He's so different
from before.
Mmm-hmm.
He's lived
a little bit
of life, I think.
(CLICKS TONGUE)
A little bit of life.
HILARY: Here.
Read it later.
Thanks, Hilary.
You're going to have
a wonderful time.
But I am going
to miss you.
Yeah.
I'll miss you, too.
Okay.
Off you go.
Okay.
So, I'll see you
in the holidays maybe.
Yeah.
That'd be lovely.
Okay...
Bye.
Bye.
Stephen!
(SENTIMENTAL MUSIC PLAYING)
(CONDUCTOR BLOWS WHISTLE)
HILARY: "The trees
are coming into leaf
"like something
almost being said.
"The recent buds
relax and spread.
"Their greenness
is a kind of grief.
"Is it that
they are born again
"and we grow old?
"No, they die, too.
"Their yearly trick
of looking new
"is written down
in rings of grain.
"Yet still the un-resting
castles thresh...
"In full-grown thickness
every May.
"Last year is dead,
they seem to say.
"Begin afresh...
"afresh...
"afresh."
(SENTIMENTAL MUSIC
CONTINUES PLAYING)