Of Things Supernatural (1959) - full transcript
FILMEXPORT HOME VIDEO
Presents
A film based on stories by Karel Capek
OF THINGS SUPERNATURAL
Screenplay by
Music by
Film Symphony Orchestra Conducted by
In Lead Roles
GLORIA
THE MYSTERY OF WRITING
A LEGAL CASE
Assistant Director
Script
Costume Advisor
Costumes by
Make Up Aflist
Set Designer
AH Director
Assistants
Special Effects
Sound Editors
Film Editors
Directors of Photography
Produced by
Associate Producer
Made by
Creative Group
GLORIA
Directed by
Slavia Bank
I need you to take something down, miss.
- Right away, sir.
Slavia Bank, accounts depaflment.
Mr. Sembera?
He's not here at the moment.
May I take a message?
Maternity hospital?
It's the maternity hospital.
A b0 y? A sin?
Is it a boy or a girl?
What? Twins?
Twelve pounds?
I'll tell him. Thank you very much.
Sembera has twins.
- He's got twins?
He'll ceflainly be surprised.
- What a godsend!
Sembera
Sembera, you're a father!
You've got twins.
Twins?
A boy and a girl, twelve pounds.
Congratulations.
What a lucky man you are!
- A boy and a girl?
Congratulations. Good work!
- And
Are they twelve pounds
each or together?
Together, of course.
- Congratulations.
I must give the accounts
to the chief.
Let me do it. You've got
other things on your mind now.
Congratulations.
The District Civil Coufl of
Come in!
I bring the accounts, sir.
Continue, miss.
The District Civil Court
ofthe City of Prague
Let's toast to your baby boy and girl.
You didn't expect that, did you?
- No and so didn't my purse.
To that pair of yours, colleague.
What is going on here?
Office hours aren't over yet!
How dare you put this
on my table, Knotek?!
I've never seen such a mess!
Such negligent
and sloppy work! Do you know
how much it could cost the bank
to mess up a current account like this?!
Ten thousand more or less,
it doesn't bother you, does it?
- It's a mistake, sir.
A mistake? It's total incapability!
You're done here!
But I
- You? Do you know what you are?
You're the most incompetent clerk
ever employed in our bank!
I'll see to that
you get what you deserve!
Please, sir
Mr. Knotek, please, I
Here's your coffee.
Would you like a bun or two?
No.
Don't buy anyihing for me.
Ever.
Good evening, Mr. Knotek.
- Good evening.
Johnny.
That's a good dog.
What do you want?
Wait, Johnny.
Good dog.
Good boy.
Oh dear.
What do you want?
Stop it, Johnny. Be a good boy.
You're hungry, aren't you?
I'll give you something.
I've brought you dinner.
Here you are.
Hop! Take it!
There you are.
Dear Sir,
In response to the deplorable manner
in which you have treated me
What is it, Johnny?
It seems we overslept.
I wrote a letter to the chief telling
him how unfairly he had treated me.
Dear Sir,
In response to the deplorable manner
in which you have treated me,
I would like to inform you
that the erroneous current account
was not counted by me
but by my colleague, Mr. Sembera.
I, Josef Knotek,
have been employed in the Slavia Bank
for 25 years and I have never made
even the slightest mistake.
Yours faithfully, Josef Knotek.
Now the chief can howl Sembera down.
Who is it?
Good morning.
Good morning.
What brings you here?
Quiet, Johnny!
Come in.
I'm in a hurry to the hospital
to see my wife
so I got up earlier today.
- I see.
My mother-in-law baked some cakes
and since I'm taking some to my wife,
I thought I could bring you some too.
You shouldn't have
gone to so much trouble.
Thank you very much.
- Not at all, colleague.
Don't mention it.
About yesterday,
it was all
because of me, I know.
You're so kind for not telling him.
Let's not talk about that.
- Honestly, it was so
so nice ofyou.
I'm most grateful.
Not at all.
- Thank you very much.
Good bye.
- Good bye.
And don't worry about the chief,
you know
what a shod-temper he has.
He'll forget in a couple of days.
Goodbye.
- Thank you.
It seems we have breakfast, Johnny.
Stuffed cakes.
It's delicious. Would you like some?
Show me how you can beg.
That's a good boy. There you are.
It's not that simple with Sembera.
You and me, we can eke out somehow.
But feeding three kids is not easy.
And he's been working at the bank
for hardly three months.
He'd get fired right away.
Here you are.
We can't do it to Sembera.
It's such an awkward situation.
If I'm not in the bank, Sembera
will mix something up sooner or later
and get fired all the same.
Why are you looking at me like that?
Are you interceding for him?
Do you think I should
keep an eye on him?
The chief offended me!
He's shod-tempered, I know.
He means no harm, though.
Running a bank isn't
a simple thing to do.
There's no other way
if he's to keep things in order.
All right, I'll forgive the chief
and help Sembera.
What's the matter?
Why are you barking?
Hush!
I should be going.
Quiet, Johnny!
What's the matter with you?
Mr. Knotek!
Good morning!
Did you oversleep?
It's high time!
Good morning.
I'm going.
Quiet, Johnny. Enough!
Good bye.
- Good bye.
Good morning.
Keep the toilet clean
Shoo! Hush!
Stop! Stop!
Sir, get off the tram.
Yes, you, with the light!
Get off and stop delaying traffic.
Move along,
there's nothing to see here!
Come with me!
Turn it off.
But, Inspector,
I really don't understand
Stop making a fuss and follow me!
I've had enough ofthis!
Do you mean to tell us you don't know
about that thing above your head?!
Above my head?
I don't know what you mean.
- Rosie!
Lend him your mirror.
- I'm no Rosie for you!
Very well!
Vasakova, lend him your mirror!
Hurry up!
Good Lord, what is it?
Stop playing silly games!
You won't fool us.
How dare you run around
the city with such a halo
in broad daylight!
And without a permit!
But, Commissioner
- Be quiet! Name?
Name.
- Josef Knotek.
Date of biflh?
- 4 October 1873.
Where did you arrest him?
- On a tram in Lesser Town Square.
In Lesser Town Square.
It looks like some son
of glowing light.
And it's not changing. It's been
glowing like that for half an hour.
Half an hour.
It means from half past seven
I'm surprised they fell
for such a bamboozler.
I'm sure Mary from Ungelt who plays
the saint would find it quite useful.
Silence! Keep your thoughts
to yourself, Rosie.
And it wasn't there yesterday?
- It wasn't.
But, Inspector
- District Commissioner.
Commissioner, how am I supposed
to go to the bank with this?
He must have a battery in his pocket.
Search him.
Put your hands up.
- Gentlemen
He's got nothing on him, sir.
How long have you been doing this?
- But, Commissioner
Speak only when asked.
- Put your hands down.
A source of glowing light
without any power supply
or a battery.
It's warm, sir.
Try it yourself.
Well?
- It is warm.
Good day, Commissioner.
You'll keep an eye
on them for a moment.
And you're coming with me, Sebesta.
Thank you very much.
- You're welcome.
Do sit down, holy man.
Make some space!
- Thank you.
Here's a pretty go!
I'm a teetotaller, Commissioner.
Put me behind bars, Inspector.
I've obviously had a drop too much.
It's not so simple with him.
Ifl repofl it, they'll put
me in charge of an investigation.
But how should we
investigate such an odd thing?
We're not supposed
to investigate mysteries.
Ourjob is to enforce law and order.
But if we let him go,
half ofthe city will follow him.
Outside our district, mind you,
and we'll get rid of him.
Look, we can't charge
him with incitement
or with an offence against decency.
How about disturbance of peace?
Let him go.
- Keep quiet!
Mr. Knotek, stand up.
That thing on your head
is no trifling matter.
You have caused turmoil
and you pose a threat to public order.
You walk in public with an open
light source without a trade licence
or a permit. Should this situation
repeat itself,
we would be forced to keep you here.
You are free to go and I hope
we will never see you again.
But, Inspector,
I can't go outside with this.
You're right, you can't.
(Lost and Found)
- Wait.
You can hide it this way.
That's fine. Be off now.
Umbrella! Umbrella!
Be quiet, urchins!
Do your mischief somewhere else!
Good Heavens!
Oh my God!
A saint!
Silence!
This is a church!
Where did you get that?
- Get what? - That.
Oh, that. That's mine.
I thought it wouldn't bother
anyone here.
All these here
are real.
- So is mine.
In that case, I'll fetch the priest.
That would take too long.
I'll throw them in the money-box.
Kindly leave the church now.
- Let me stay here.
Leave the church at once!
- I can't go outside with this.
Get out!
- ls this how you treat good Christians?
I'll complain to the bishop!
- Complain to the pope, if you like!
Get out!
Keep going!
Heretic!
Nothing is sacred anymore.
District Health Insurance Office
Patient Repons - Surgeries - X-Ray
You need to register first.
At the window over there.
Thank you.
- You're welcome.
Why are you holding
that umbrella?
Come with me.
Come this way.
Good day.
- What seems to be the matter?
Look at what happened
to me, doctor.
MY 900dness!
Well, I'll be damned!
How on eaflh did you get it?
I don't know, doctor.
I can't take it off
or hide it under my hat.
What should I do?
Let me see.
It looks like a gloriole.
- It does, doesn't it?
I've never seen anyihing
like that in my whole life.
Neither did I. - It must be
something quite extraordinary.
A lot has been written lately about
electric currents in the brain.
Perhaps it is some son of radiation.
I'll send you to a psychiatric clinic.
Where? To a psy
- To a psychiatric clinic.
This has to be examined scientifically.
The glowing light is visible to the eye.
Take notes. With luminosity
of approximately five candelas,
the light does not oscillate
or cast shadows.
It does not react to air flow
and it is non-inflammable.
Do you experience any pain? - No.
- Your parents were in good health?
Yes.
- Hereditary disorders or alcoholism?
None.
Venereal diseases perhaps?
- No. - No.
Are you or your relatives prone
to religious exaltation,
or mediumistic abilities
or something like that?
No, nothing like that.
- Professor, is there a possibility
that the light is caused
by materialized brain waves?
Electric brain activity
and its registration
Has been already described by Berger.
However, not on such a case.
Continue, colleague.
Yes, sir. Let's take off your
glasses. Look out of the window.
No. Remain seated
and watch my finger.
Follow it with your eyes.
All the time.
I beg your pardon.
Keep following my finger with your eyes.
His convergence reaction is normal.
- Normal.
Close your eyes and touch the tip
of your nose with your finger-tip.
Normal.
- Normal.
Clasp your hands.
Now pull them away with force.
Close your eyes.
Cross your legs.
Now the other one.
His knee-jerk is normal.
- Normal.
Have you ever
suffered a head injury?
No.
- Have you ever had wild dreams?
No, just once when I had a fever,
I dreamt I was falling somewhere.
Were you in the Salvation Army?
No. I was only a member
ofthe Sokol physical training union.
A member of the Sokol.
- The Sokol.
What is troubling you?
- Nothing.
What is it that you want from us then?
Professor, I beg you,
get rid of it or let me stay here.
I can't walk around in public with this.
If you only knew what I had to
go through. - Very well.
He'll stay here and we'll
perform all additional tests.
I'm so grateful, Professor.
Come here.
Pee into this.
Over there.
Spread your fingers, put them together.
Spread your fingers.
Negative.
Mingazzini is negative.
Is it painful? - No.
- And this? - No.
Tapping on the head is not painful.
It tickles!
- Babinsky is negative.
Breathe.
Take nice deep breaths.
No, no!
No hereditary disorders.
No alcoholism, kleptomania,
or suicide!
I wasn't in the Salvation Army!
I'm usually calm and collected!
But what you've been doing to me
could easily drive me insane!
Calm down, everyihing
will bejust fine.
We will send you home and you will
come for a check-up in some time.
Professor, let me stay here, I can't go
among normal people with this.
From a clinical view, you're quite
healthy. I'm sending you home.
Have mercy, gentlemen.
I want to stay here!
I can't go outside with this, Professor!
I want to stay here!
Help! Help!
Who is it? - It's me, Dr. Vanasek
from the Health Insurance Office.
Dr. Vanasek?
Good evening, doctor.
Come in.
- Thank you. Good evening.
I was in the neighbourhood
calling on a patient
so I stopped by.
How are you feeling?
Is it still glowing?
- It is. - Let me have a look.
It is indeed glowing.
I'm finished, doctor.
I can't go outside with this.
Show me your tongue. More.
Did the psychiatrists examine you?
You may close your mouth.
For three days.
They were driving me insane.
Science demands patience, my friend.
You'll be a famous scientific
case one day.
I almost am.
Be quiet, Johnny?!
Not even the poor animal
can stand looking at me.
I'll leave some bromine for you.
It's paid from your health insurance.
Take a spoonful before going to bed
and give some to your dog too
in case it doesn't calm down.
You see, I'm not much of a believer
in the supernatural.
The cause must be neural.
It isn't, doctor.
- Do you think so?
Listen, Mr. Knotek,
you haven't done anyihing,
how should I put it,
anyihing saintly by chance, have you?
Saintly?
- I mean something unusual.
A vifluous deed or something like that.
A vifluous deed?
Listen, if I were in your place,
I would sin a little.
Sin?
What do you mean, doctor?
To curse,
blaspheme against God.
Blaspheme?
- It won't do you harm
and it's woflh a try.
Maybe it will disappear.
Take care of yourself.
Good night, Mr. Knotek.
- Good night.
In case it doesn't disappear,
come to my surgery. Good night.
Good night.
Thanks a lot.
Shut up.
I can't stand listening to you!
Blaspheme.
It's easy to say blaspheme!
Blimey!
Damn it!
What a damned life!
Damned lousy life!
To hell with it!
But I won't leave it this way!
I've been considerate more than enough!
- Calm down, Mr. Knotek.
Wait, please, don't ruin my life.
They'll fire me.
Look what became of me!
Good Heavens, you can't go in
the office with this.
I don't care anymore!
I'm a mere scientific case!
With files at the clinic and the police,
I can have another one with the chief!
Not so loud, please,
someone might hear you.
Let them all hear me! And you
ought to mind your own business
and stop making mistakes
for which others have to pay!
I know, it was all my fault.
- You won't mollify me!
How can a wisp of a fellow
like you have twins!
How careless! Besides, you can't even
add one and one together!
Look at what a mess you've made!
- Please, Mr. Knotek.
Don't do it! Have mercy!
- Mercy?!
Does anyone have mercy on me?
Everyone should mind their own business!
Enough! The bank is not supposed
to help anybody!
Everyone should mind their
own business! It's simple as that!
I therefore propose the following
Do you see that?
To get the record straight, sir,
the messed up current account
for which you dressed me down
was not my work at all!
There's hardly a bigger spitfire
and a brute in the world!
You're good at pestering
your employees!
Mr. Knotek, calm down.
We'll son this out.
There's nothing to son out.
You never howl down the girls.
You dictate to them.
But is it really so?
Where does such a girl get the money
to buy her make-up and silk stockings?
I beg your pardon!
I agree with you, colleague.
And then someone plays the stock market
and the bank goes bankrupt!
Mr. Knotek, please. - There's nothing
but dir1y tricks everywhere
and one should just watch and keep
silent. Not me, sir.
I won't keep silent any longer!
That current account
thanks to which you almost fired me
was messed up by Sembera.
Not me! So be so kind and dress
him down instead of me!
The light... it went out.
It's gone.
It's all right. It's gone.
THE MYSTERY OF WRITING
Directed by
The queen of spades is a woman.
The main cause of your trouble.
Yes. It is true.
Is it
- Divide the pack into three.
Into three. There.
Disaster is approaching your home.
Disaster? I see.
Disaster! Disaster!
- Here. You see?
The jack of heads in a Prague street.
Jack in a Prague street. ls he coming
from the country or from abroad?
The Prague street means
he is close to you. - I see.
Look, this is you, that's the man
and the woman is here.
The ten of clubs behind her
means great doubts and unceflainty.
Yes, great unceflainty.
- She hesitates.
She hasn't decided yet.
- Decided what?
You're jealous of her. Suspicious.
Is she unfaithful?
Infidelity
Where is infidelity? Here.
The queen of clubs is
still far from your home.
Beware of the jack in the
Prague street, though.
I should, shouldn't I?
ENTRY
KARLIK DETECTIVE BUREAU
KARLIK IS DISCREET AND RELIABLE
Your wife. If I'm not
mistaken, we are to watch her.
Yes.
- Discreetness is guaranteed.
Our bureau is reliable. We've received
hundreds ofthank you letters.
Kindly fill in your name and address.
The advance is fifty crowns.
How much?
- Fifty crowns, sir.
She was in Spalena Street and at
the milliner's from 10.00 to 10.30 am.
She then went by tram to Mustek
where she entered Sterba's
Confectionery at 10.40 am.
She sat alone and ordered two
cakes and Viennese Coffee.
She left a half-crown tip.
She went to the hairdressefis
at 11.10 am.
I need facts. I need to be cenain.
I need evidence.
Some cases need time.
And oppoflunity.
- What?!
Yes, every case is different.
One can never be too careful in the city
where one is constantly watched.
Do you have a weekend house?
- Listen here
Let's go to my office.
- With pleasure.
What did you mean?
- A shod business trip may also
serve our purpose or you
may send your wife to a spa.
Provide her with
a little more freedom.
I had a case once,
the name is not relevant.
We were following the lady
for 6 months with no result.
Yet, after three days in Marienbad,
we caught her in the very act.
Listen
- Good day.
Good day, the boss
- Do not disturb him.
I'll look at some sets in the meantime.
Do you have
Good day, Coufl Counsel.
Goodbye, Coufl Counsel.
- Farewell.
Hello.
Why don't you go to the back
and son the auction items.
What business have you with that fellow?
Is it ...?
- It is.
It seems you'll soon divorce me, Tony.
You don't say!
- ls it you?
Your wife Maflha? No.
She's unfaithful, my friend.
Have you got any evidence?
- No, none at all.
That's the worst thing.
I'm not getting any younger
and if Maflha came herself
and asked me
We'd agree somehow.
I'm no savage.
But the unceflainty is unbearable.
- I believe you.
Sometimes,
it's not easy to find evidence.
I believe in happenchance.
In accidental, I daresay,
uncontrolled manifestations
that one lets slip now and then.
One has to be a psychologist.
Pure truth is encountered
in this valley of tears
only when a human
being spills the beans.
This is nice.
- What should I do?
Well
It's a matter of experience, my friend.
A woman always lets herself get caught.
Sometimes,
all it takes is a single word.
One lies even when one doesn't have to.
- Yes
You're absolutely right, it's nothing
but pretence and lies.
You know I'd do anyihing
to please Maflha.
If only I were ceflain of her fidelity.
Jealousy, my friend, is terrible.
Why should a decent woman
let herself be dishonoured for nothing!
- For nothing?!
Did you hear that, Your Honour?
Infidelity is nothing!
You're a jealous and suspicious tyrant
who's spying on me all the time!
It's no life. It's a purgatory!
- It's sheer hell, Your Honour!
Silence, please.
As you can see, plaintiff, nothing
in the testimonies of the witnesses
proves the defendant guilty
of marital infidelity.
What about the Mr. Vflatkds letters?
He debauched my wife!
Mr. Vrtatko testified that
his intimate relationship with your wife
had ended long before her marriage.
- Yes! Long before my marriage.
Silence! Pre-marital relationships
are irrelevant to the court.
There are plenty of marital matters
the court has to deal with.
If you have no new evidence, I advise
you to withdraw your petition
and stop wasting your money.
But, Your Honour, I
- Think it over.
Defendant, there is one thing
I've been wanting to ask you.
Didn't Mr. Vnatko cure his TBC
in a mountain sanatorium?
TBC? No. As far as I know, he was
keen on ski jumping.
As a leisure spor1 I presume.
- No, as a professional.
He even won a silver medal in the Tatras
despite not being in a good shape.
I mean I read it in the papers.
That's interesting.
Do you remember
in what newspaper by chance?
No. I don't remember.
- You don't remember.
Very well.
Incidentally, I have a results repofl
from the Skiers Union of all
competitions held in the Tatras,
in which Mr. Vflatko paflicipated.
And it says here
that Mr. Vflatko
won a silver medal in the Tatras
only once and it was this year.
I don't seem to understand
- Just a moment, please.
In the file,
appended under Annex M,
we have a letter signed:
"With love from your Bohous."
Allow me to quote the letter.
"Had I been in a better shape,
sweetheart, I would have won gold."
You claim it is a letter written
to you before your marriage.
The letter is not dated, nonetheless,
as mentioned before,
Mr. Vflatko has won a silver medal
in the Tatras only this year.
It is thus obvious that the letter
is also from this year.
All this proves that you have
not spoken the truth
and that you have committed
marital infidelity.
There you have it!
I said it was Vflatko!
Indeed.
I believe the defendant
will plead guilty
and we may close the case.
Where were we?
- The defendant claims
In accordance with the lodged action,
the defendant pleads guilty
of committing marital infidelity.
Bravo, Tony. It was marvellous work.
How you cornered her
and forced her to confess.
If only I could do it the same way.
I'd give anyihing
to finally learn the truth.
- lt needs time, my friend.
It took five hearings to make
the woman convict herself.
Where did she go?
She had to say something!
Perhaps she went shopping.
- Nonsense. She went shopping yesterday.
Wasn't she going to see someone?
Did anyone call her?
Someone did.
- Who was it? Tell me!
I don't know, sir. She answered
the phone herself.
I see.
What is it? Wait!
What was she wearing?
The beige pleated dress,
a light-coloured hat,
snakeskin coufl shoes a bag,
a pink chemise
Enough! Be off.
Where did you go afterwards?
I went for a shod walk in the park.
And then? - I sent
the money orders you had given me.
The post office was crowded.
Then I went to the cemetery
to visit mother.
To the cemetery?
And what about the hairdressefis?
Maflha, why aren't you
telling me the truth?
Why are you so suspicious all the time?!
Since you're spying on me,
why don't you search me!
Here are the tram tickets.
- Martha, dear
Manha
- I can't stand it anymore!
This is no life!
This is a purgatory!
Maflha, dear
Maflha
What a pleasant surprise!
Welcome, Aflhur.
- How are you?
We haven't seen each
other for ages. - Indeed.
Young and charming as always, Maflha.
What can I do for you, Aflhur?
I need to buy a small gift.
I see. What did you have in mind?
Is she a blond or a brunette?
You will never change,
Aflhur, will you?
Where are you going
on holiday this year, Aflhur?
I don't know yet,
it depends on the situation.
But I'll see you in Senohraby
in August.
Maflha
I thought it might be best for you
to go to a spa.
Wouldn't you like that?
Do you want to make up for what
you've done? - It would do you good.
You could relax
and enjoy a little freedom.
I couldn't come with you right away
but I could join you
in a foflnight or so if you want.
Excuse me. I beg your pardon.
Thank you.
Have we got everyihing?
- I beg your pardon, madam.
Not at all. It was my fault.
ls this seat free?
You may sit by the window if you like.
- You are most kind.
No, you'd sit in a draught
and it's a smoker's compaflment.
We can smoke in the corridor.
- Thank you.
You must have a comfoflable journey.
- Oh yes.
Over here.
- ls this seat free?
What's this?
- I don't know.
Bye! Don't forget to write!
You're a grass widower now, aren't you?
We are going to the spa this year too.
During the coufl holidays,
aren't we, dear?
To Marienbad?
- It's our favourite, isn't it, dear?
Yes. - Let's hope you and your wife
will still be there when we arrive.
There.
- Excuse me.
I need your advice.
Do you think he will like it? You see,
we are celebrating our twentieth
wedding anniversary soon.
- I am sure he will like it very much.
It's marvellous work.
- I'm so happy.
Never mind.
Well.
Isn't it strange how - You two
surely have a lot to talk about.
Besides, I have work to do.
- Yes, dear.
Thank you.
I envy you, Tony.
Your marriage is so happy
Really? I must admit
it's working well, though.
How are things with you and your wife?
- I've tried almost everyihing.
I waited for her to give herself away
as you told me.
She often lied to me but
- It's a typical woman's habit.
A woman will never tell you
she spent two hours at the milliner's.
She will claim she was
at the dentist or the hairdressefis.
These half-truths and half-lies,
old chum, are the pillars
of normal human relations,
especially in marriage.
Why did you let her go to the spa?
I'm so ashamed.
She's being watched there to.
By that fellow you know.
I know. You're wasting your money.
Only happenchance will provide
you with downright evidence.
Trust me.
It needs time.
- Time, time!
But the unceflainty is unbearable!
I'm not much of
a believer in the supernatural.
Jensen is one
ofthe world's best, you'll see.
If you say so.
Jensen!
Come, I've arranged everyihing.
Pretend that you're repoflers.
I'm highly interested in your opinion.
This way, gentlemen.
These are the main principles
of scientific
psychometric graphology.
As you can see, the overall system
is built on purely experimental laws.
The practical use ofthese
exact methods is quite complex.
Mr. Jensen will therefore
analyse two or three samples
of hand-writing, without
explaining the whole process.
We do not have time for that.
- He's a swindler.
Gentlemen, could you provide
us with a hand-written document?
A hand of a woman.
Mr. Jensen says that
a man's writing is usually
more distinct and attractive.
The woman who wrote this
has correct moral values.
She does not steal or lie
and she is not deceitful.
Her hand is soothing,
as if a hand of reconciliation.
She is devoted.
She is someone one can rely on.
Everyihing seems quite all right.
This writing is in no way special.
Mr. Jensen would like another,
a more interesting sample.
Have you got something?
Coufl files.
- That's perfect.
Is it from a person close to you?
By no means.
- Every writing has its fluidum, you see.
It is a purely physical phenomenon.
In this case, Mr. Jensen
does not need to see the writing,
merely touching it is sufficient.
It is a deceitful woman.
She is a low person,
quite lustful and disorderly.
Her home must be rather unsightly.
She is superficial
with down-to-eaflh interests.
Yet, she is only hiding
her true thoughts.
She is extremely fond of comfort
That is why she throws herself
at a person, persuading him
how well she is taking care of him.
She is one those women in the
face of whom any man is a weakling.
Her endless chattering
turns him into a weakling.
She wants to order others about
and she does just that.
Interesting.
It's a fitting description.
May I ask a question, please?
How does she have her will?
Through the vilest tyranny.
The tyranny of tears.
At the same time, she is hiding
something, perhaps from the past.
She is peculiar about little things
but when it comes to major things,
she lacks discipline.
She is simply a slattern.
The writing bespeaks
of insidious thoughts.
Sharp as a stab in the back.
Although, she will not do it
for she is too self-indulgent.
That seems to be all.
Remarkable!
It fits the case precisely.
He got everyihing right.
The woman is a notorious criminal.
I went to see my mother.
Dinner is in the stove. Elizabeth.
A world sensation, eh?!
He's a cheater!
A woman who doesn't lie
and will never deceive anyone.
He's a swindler.
- What? - What?
It's just happenchance. He gets it right
the first time but not the second.
He got your case right, didn't he?
It seems I forgot the file at home.
At home? How come?
- There was a note from my wife.
What? Your wife?
Nonsense!
He's a swindler!
Happenchance
A satisfied husband makes
a happy housewife.
Dinner is in the stove.
Add a little water to the rice.
You're home already?
- Why?
Hedvika kept me long,
she wouldn't stop talking.
You haven't had dinner yet.
I'll heat it up for you in a jiffy.
What?
- What? Nothing.
Nothing!
I've made your favourite
beef tongue on anchovies.
All you keep talking about is food!
Down-to-eaflh interests.
I know, it turns men into weaklings.
Beef tongue on anchovies!
Why are you talking like that, dear?
ls something the matter?
You're always so caring, aren't you?!
Don't be silly.
Don't you know your wife?
Don't you trust her?
It can be all just pretence.
And pretence is not easy to reveal.
Only through science. Like Jensen.
And I say maybe.
You know I had her note on me.
And that's the accidental evidence!
Do you think you could actually live
with someone for twenty years
without noticing anyihing?
- Jensen opened my eyes.
Only now I see all the deceitfulness.
All of a sudden, I see how she threw
herself at me to live in comfort
To satisfy her lustfulness!
How disgusting!
Did I do something to you?
I'm not aware of anyihing.
There was never a cross word
between us and now
What are these rags doing here?!
I was mending your shins.
You were mending my shifls?
Well, well!
Do you think it allows
you to order me about?!
No! It will all stop now!
No!
If you have something against me,
say it straight!
What do I know about you?
Nothing at all!
You are hiding your secrets well!
I don't even know your past!
I beg your pardon!
What is the matter with you?
Nothing is the matter with me!
First of all, I'll get rid ofthe rags!
They're only in the way.
There!
Well, look here!
There we have it!
You're peculiar about little things.
While, in fact, you're
nothing but a slattern!
Does this belong there?!
- Did I deserve this after 20 years?
I want you to tell me
what I have done wrong.
Nothing. Nothing at all!
Is it wrong that one's
wife is disorderly,
deceitful and lustful?
No!
Moreover, such a low person!
Stop it!
You won't fool me any longer
with that tyranny of tears!
BEWARE OF GLASS
Look. It's old Janowitz's wife
with such a youngling!
They're all the same.
Poor Janowitz.
I'm sure he doesn't know
his wife is a cheater.
How can one trust them.
And that detective, that leech,
keeps writing
that everyihing is quite all right.
Everyihing is quite all right while
she is able to stab you in the back.
Although, she is too
self-indulgent to do it.
A letter from Maflha.
Won't you read it?
I know it by head.
I suppose
Oh my! She gave herself away!
She finally did! Dear Aflhur.
I have it in black and white, look.
It's your accidental evidence!
- What?
It's all clear now!
She confused the envelopes!
Aflhur is the biggest womanizer
I know and I had no idea!
Calm down. Continue reading.
Forgive me for not replying
to your letter of last month sooner.
I have not received a letter
from my dear husband for weeks,
he must be up to his ears in work.
You must understand that without
any news of my husband
for so long, I have lost track
oftime and I feel so lonely.
She feels so lonely, look.
- So lonely.
I would like to ask you
to take Frank out.
He has been acting a little nervous
A little nervous and strange lately.
You have not written anyihing
about your new love.
It must be very hot in Prague
and I am so worried about Frank.
He should take a vacation
and join me.
When are you coming to Senohraby?
You cannot imagine
how a woman feels like
when she misses her sweetheart
When she misses her sweetheafl!
Tony, she is faithful!
She is faithful!
Yours sincerely,
Maflha Karasova.
The truth will show
itself by happenchance.
I'm so happy I'd cry with joy.
Frank!
Maflha.
- Hello.
Welcome, Coufl Counsel.
Why didn't you take your
wife with you?
Well, the thing is
- He needed a break.
He's been worrying a lot lately.
- Really?
What's troubling you?
- You see
You know how it goes at the court
- You know how it goes.
It's good that you've come
to spend the Sunday.
It's so nice here.
Frank, I'm so happy.
Do you like it?
You're such a darling, Frank.
Don't mention it, dear.
Did you get my letter?
What letter? I haven't received
any letter this week.
I sent it on Tuesday.
Or did I
What did you write?
- As usual.
I was asking you to join me,
that I miss you and things like that.
It got probably lost on the way.
Shall we join Tony on the colonnade?
But let me change first.
Did you enjoy yourself here, dear?
I'll tell you everylhing.
Go ahead and I'll join you.
As I have informed you,
everyihing is quite all right.
Here's your money.
I won't need you anymore.
I had some cash expenses, sir.
Just a trifle one can't avoid in a spa.
Expended in the client's best interest.
- Keep the change.
Thank you, sir?
Look, Jensen!
There's no use denying it.
He got everyihing right.
Just in my case, I mean.
What about the letter, honey?
Did it help?
Who is it?
- It's me, sir.
Good day, sir.
- Good day.
I'm at your service, sir.
I must admit
I feel a little ashamed of myself.
Frank trusts me so much now.
I'll take the evening train.
- Why all so early?
I don't want to leave
my wife alone for so long.
You're absolutely right.
Our wives can't be without us.
Can they?
A LEGAL CASE
Directed by
ls he here?
Good evening. I was in the neighbourhood
so I thought I could stop by
to see if you were home.
You don't look well.
I hope it's not the flu.
I thought it was him.
- Who?
The dead old man!
- Oh yes. The dead
Perhaps I should come
when you're feeling better.
I'm not sick. I'm fine.
I'm quite all right.
Believe me.
It's just that this whole thing
got me a little confused.
That damned old man!
And you are?
- I'm from the insurance company.
From the insurance company, I see.
I have it right here.
His death ceflificate.
It's for the pension, you see?
I see. A death ceflificate
for the pension.
We don't do that, sir.
We're an insurance company.
I came because of your car insurance.
I won't keep you, though.
I can come at another time
since you're expecting that man.
He's not coming. Not tonight.
Would you like a cup of coffee?
Yes?
I'll make some coffee.
- Yes.
You
- But
You can't imagine what I've been going
through because of him.
Oh no. - I'll make us some coffee.
- No, thank you, I don't drink coffee.
I know. I'm afraid to stay home,
at work I'm restless.
I keep hiding, yet he finds
me everywhere. - Oh yes.
Everywhere, everywhere!
- Oh yes.
I'll make the coffee.
- Yes.
And it's happening at night, isn't it?
I know what I'm talking about.
Not at night but in the day!
That's what's strange about it.
He goes home at night. By train.
He's got an employee pass
so he travels almost for free.
You see, he's a retired railwayman.
And the point is they
took away his pension
when he had died.
- When he had died.
I would be surprised
if they didn't, wouldn't you?
That's why he keeps coming to me.
During the day, you say?
- All the time, all the time.
That's interesting.
I've never heard of such a thing.
Some people nowadays, eh? They die,
and they still want their pension.
Good heavens! I completely forgot
I was supposed to
I'll stop by some other time.
- Don't go! I've got to tell you!
Please stay. I'm so glad you're here.
Try to understand me.
He's dead.
In a way at least.
Everyihing was just fine.
It says here in black and white
in his death ceflificate.
Antonin Banos,
retired railway employee.
He wouldn't be that bad
if it weren't for his kin.
They're setting him against me.
So is he dead or not?
To be quite frank, it's all so crazy.
It's complete nonsense.
Absolute nonsense.
Completely crazy!
Completely crazy.
Just a moment!
Calm down.
Take it easy.
The coffee is ready, isn't it?
It happened some six months ago.
I was driving at a speed of some
50 miles per hour towards a bend,
thinking that the road behind
it was free.
Well, I was awfully wrong!
It's Grandfather!
What's the matter? What time is it?
Grandpa, they almost buried you!
It's Grandpa! Our grandpa, look!
- Do you see that?
M373'-
Frank.
Hurry! Clear the way.
That skid came just in time,
don't you think?
Why are you so pale, Charlie?
Come, Grandpa, I'll take you home.
You'll rest a while
and we'll send for a doctor.
What for?
- He's so cute.
Everyihing will be just fine.
You'll feel like a newborn!
Would you be so kind and show
me the way, Father?
Let's see if you can get in.
- Give me your hand, Father.
With the Lord's help,
we may be able to
Watch your step, Father
How are you feeling, Grandpa?
Oh dear.
I'll pay for the coffin
and for the doctor.
You're a damned lucky man.
Just to think
what would have become of you
if my car had not skidded.
You can thank me for
not being buried alive.
Am I right, Father?
It's all right.
We're here, Grandpa.
Slowly, don't rush.
Wait. Don't move.
Slowly. Like a newborn.
Like a newborn baby.
There
Look at how well he is walking.
Wait!
Wait here.
Don't move.
Father
You're home, Grandpa.
Do you understand?
After you, Father.
Good Lord!
What a beautiful place!
And the fresh air!
Well
Well, Grandpa.
What would you like?
I'd like my pipe.
Your pipe, eh?
Where is your Pipe?
Here it is.
Maybe they wanted
to throw it away.
It will serve you long and well.
Well, I ought to be going now.
Farewell, Father.
I'm so glad it ended so well.
I hope you enjoy
a couple more years.
Why don't you come to Prague
for a visit some day.
I'd take you to the ZOO or a museum.
Let's write it politely.
As the family wished
the grandfather, Antonin Banos,
to have a proper funeral,
it used up all its savings.
However, since the grandfather
has been risen from the dead,
as a result of your reckless driving,
it will be necessary
to bury him once more,
which the above-named
family cannot afford.
Tell him that he has to pay
for the whole ruined funeral.
Including your fee, Father.
- The band, the caretaker and the wake!
Of course
- And my shroud too.
He rose you from the dead
so he should put things in order.
One cannot fool around with such
things without paying for it.
Either he'll get your pension back
or he'll pay it himself.
It's a clear legal case. We will surely
find suitable aflicles of law.
First of all, we will claim
smafl money from him.
I presume it could amount
to five thousand.
Is something troubling you, Mr. Kupr?
- Yes. I mean, no.
Good day!
What brings you here, Grandpa?
How are you?
Didn't I tell you?
You're like a newborn!
You'll enjoy a couple more years.
I wish God would take me.
Why are you talking like that?
It's the old man I told you about.
A fine fellow, isn't he?
If it weren't for me,
he wouldn't have been standing here.
I came because of my pension.
They say I'm not entitled
to it because I'm dead.
How can they say that?
You're as fit as a fiddle!
They say they have a ceflificate.
What ceflificate?
You're here, alive and well.
Go there in person.
- Do you think it will help?
Of course it will.
But my son, his wife
and even the lawyer told me
that you should pay me
a lifelong annuity, you see?
But
- I think it's nonsense too.
It is nonsense. Look,
go to the office yourself,
tell them you're not dead and that you
have a right to receive your pension.
Good bye.
Nobody saw me?
Are you sure?
Which floor is it?
- 6th floor.
Is it far from the lift?
- No.
I'm afraid.
- There's no need.
There's hardly a chance
somebody might see you.
I'd have to leave at once. It's
not woflh it. He's awfullyjealous.
Don't worry.
There's absolutely no chance
somebody
- Good evening.
Why didn't you go home?
They're sending me
from one office to another.
So I came to you.
I'm officially dead for them
and I'm not entitled to my pension.
You won't let them treat you
like that, will you?
Of course not! I've been ailing
since you rose me from the dead.
You've crippled me!
I'm not my old self anymore!
I'm good for nothing.
They have to make
more solid meals for me!
Do something!
Grandpa! Mr. Baflos! ls this how
you express your gratefulness?
Is this what I get for saving you?
I literally helped you
escape the grave!
Enough!
I don't want to hear another word!
What do you want?
Listen
Stop following me.
From now on I don't know you.
This is the 20th century, address your
claims to the insurance company!
Farewell!
It was all over and now
I have to die once more.
He will pay or I'll take it
to the Supreme Court
Let me tell you something, Mr. Kundera.
It should be punished
the same way as murder.
He won't get rid of me
as long as I live.
As long as I live!
890.
He'll drive me crazy.
Or I'll have to run him over once more.
I don't see any other solution.
One shouldn't interfere with fate
or he's asking for big trouble.
Calm down and come back.
It's not him.
It can't be.
It's at the neighbour's door.
He always rings twice.
Maybe he won't come.
Maybe he went to
the insurance company.
And maybe he'll never come again!
He won't come again, will he?
Ever.
It's such an awkward situation
for me, Mr. Kupr.
How should I put it.
Look, Mr. Kupr, take it as a joke,
be a sport
The thing is
Tell me!
Calm down and tell me.
The thing is you haven't paid
your car insurance policy.
I'm back.
A SAD END
GLORIA
Cast
THE MYSTERY OF WRITING
Cast
A LEGAL CASE
Cast
Presents
A film based on stories by Karel Capek
OF THINGS SUPERNATURAL
Screenplay by
Music by
Film Symphony Orchestra Conducted by
In Lead Roles
GLORIA
THE MYSTERY OF WRITING
A LEGAL CASE
Assistant Director
Script
Costume Advisor
Costumes by
Make Up Aflist
Set Designer
AH Director
Assistants
Special Effects
Sound Editors
Film Editors
Directors of Photography
Produced by
Associate Producer
Made by
Creative Group
GLORIA
Directed by
Slavia Bank
I need you to take something down, miss.
- Right away, sir.
Slavia Bank, accounts depaflment.
Mr. Sembera?
He's not here at the moment.
May I take a message?
Maternity hospital?
It's the maternity hospital.
A b0 y? A sin?
Is it a boy or a girl?
What? Twins?
Twelve pounds?
I'll tell him. Thank you very much.
Sembera has twins.
- He's got twins?
He'll ceflainly be surprised.
- What a godsend!
Sembera
Sembera, you're a father!
You've got twins.
Twins?
A boy and a girl, twelve pounds.
Congratulations.
What a lucky man you are!
- A boy and a girl?
Congratulations. Good work!
- And
Are they twelve pounds
each or together?
Together, of course.
- Congratulations.
I must give the accounts
to the chief.
Let me do it. You've got
other things on your mind now.
Congratulations.
The District Civil Coufl of
Come in!
I bring the accounts, sir.
Continue, miss.
The District Civil Court
ofthe City of Prague
Let's toast to your baby boy and girl.
You didn't expect that, did you?
- No and so didn't my purse.
To that pair of yours, colleague.
What is going on here?
Office hours aren't over yet!
How dare you put this
on my table, Knotek?!
I've never seen such a mess!
Such negligent
and sloppy work! Do you know
how much it could cost the bank
to mess up a current account like this?!
Ten thousand more or less,
it doesn't bother you, does it?
- It's a mistake, sir.
A mistake? It's total incapability!
You're done here!
But I
- You? Do you know what you are?
You're the most incompetent clerk
ever employed in our bank!
I'll see to that
you get what you deserve!
Please, sir
Mr. Knotek, please, I
Here's your coffee.
Would you like a bun or two?
No.
Don't buy anyihing for me.
Ever.
Good evening, Mr. Knotek.
- Good evening.
Johnny.
That's a good dog.
What do you want?
Wait, Johnny.
Good dog.
Good boy.
Oh dear.
What do you want?
Stop it, Johnny. Be a good boy.
You're hungry, aren't you?
I'll give you something.
I've brought you dinner.
Here you are.
Hop! Take it!
There you are.
Dear Sir,
In response to the deplorable manner
in which you have treated me
What is it, Johnny?
It seems we overslept.
I wrote a letter to the chief telling
him how unfairly he had treated me.
Dear Sir,
In response to the deplorable manner
in which you have treated me,
I would like to inform you
that the erroneous current account
was not counted by me
but by my colleague, Mr. Sembera.
I, Josef Knotek,
have been employed in the Slavia Bank
for 25 years and I have never made
even the slightest mistake.
Yours faithfully, Josef Knotek.
Now the chief can howl Sembera down.
Who is it?
Good morning.
Good morning.
What brings you here?
Quiet, Johnny!
Come in.
I'm in a hurry to the hospital
to see my wife
so I got up earlier today.
- I see.
My mother-in-law baked some cakes
and since I'm taking some to my wife,
I thought I could bring you some too.
You shouldn't have
gone to so much trouble.
Thank you very much.
- Not at all, colleague.
Don't mention it.
About yesterday,
it was all
because of me, I know.
You're so kind for not telling him.
Let's not talk about that.
- Honestly, it was so
so nice ofyou.
I'm most grateful.
Not at all.
- Thank you very much.
Good bye.
- Good bye.
And don't worry about the chief,
you know
what a shod-temper he has.
He'll forget in a couple of days.
Goodbye.
- Thank you.
It seems we have breakfast, Johnny.
Stuffed cakes.
It's delicious. Would you like some?
Show me how you can beg.
That's a good boy. There you are.
It's not that simple with Sembera.
You and me, we can eke out somehow.
But feeding three kids is not easy.
And he's been working at the bank
for hardly three months.
He'd get fired right away.
Here you are.
We can't do it to Sembera.
It's such an awkward situation.
If I'm not in the bank, Sembera
will mix something up sooner or later
and get fired all the same.
Why are you looking at me like that?
Are you interceding for him?
Do you think I should
keep an eye on him?
The chief offended me!
He's shod-tempered, I know.
He means no harm, though.
Running a bank isn't
a simple thing to do.
There's no other way
if he's to keep things in order.
All right, I'll forgive the chief
and help Sembera.
What's the matter?
Why are you barking?
Hush!
I should be going.
Quiet, Johnny!
What's the matter with you?
Mr. Knotek!
Good morning!
Did you oversleep?
It's high time!
Good morning.
I'm going.
Quiet, Johnny. Enough!
Good bye.
- Good bye.
Good morning.
Keep the toilet clean
Shoo! Hush!
Stop! Stop!
Sir, get off the tram.
Yes, you, with the light!
Get off and stop delaying traffic.
Move along,
there's nothing to see here!
Come with me!
Turn it off.
But, Inspector,
I really don't understand
Stop making a fuss and follow me!
I've had enough ofthis!
Do you mean to tell us you don't know
about that thing above your head?!
Above my head?
I don't know what you mean.
- Rosie!
Lend him your mirror.
- I'm no Rosie for you!
Very well!
Vasakova, lend him your mirror!
Hurry up!
Good Lord, what is it?
Stop playing silly games!
You won't fool us.
How dare you run around
the city with such a halo
in broad daylight!
And without a permit!
But, Commissioner
- Be quiet! Name?
Name.
- Josef Knotek.
Date of biflh?
- 4 October 1873.
Where did you arrest him?
- On a tram in Lesser Town Square.
In Lesser Town Square.
It looks like some son
of glowing light.
And it's not changing. It's been
glowing like that for half an hour.
Half an hour.
It means from half past seven
I'm surprised they fell
for such a bamboozler.
I'm sure Mary from Ungelt who plays
the saint would find it quite useful.
Silence! Keep your thoughts
to yourself, Rosie.
And it wasn't there yesterday?
- It wasn't.
But, Inspector
- District Commissioner.
Commissioner, how am I supposed
to go to the bank with this?
He must have a battery in his pocket.
Search him.
Put your hands up.
- Gentlemen
He's got nothing on him, sir.
How long have you been doing this?
- But, Commissioner
Speak only when asked.
- Put your hands down.
A source of glowing light
without any power supply
or a battery.
It's warm, sir.
Try it yourself.
Well?
- It is warm.
Good day, Commissioner.
You'll keep an eye
on them for a moment.
And you're coming with me, Sebesta.
Thank you very much.
- You're welcome.
Do sit down, holy man.
Make some space!
- Thank you.
Here's a pretty go!
I'm a teetotaller, Commissioner.
Put me behind bars, Inspector.
I've obviously had a drop too much.
It's not so simple with him.
Ifl repofl it, they'll put
me in charge of an investigation.
But how should we
investigate such an odd thing?
We're not supposed
to investigate mysteries.
Ourjob is to enforce law and order.
But if we let him go,
half ofthe city will follow him.
Outside our district, mind you,
and we'll get rid of him.
Look, we can't charge
him with incitement
or with an offence against decency.
How about disturbance of peace?
Let him go.
- Keep quiet!
Mr. Knotek, stand up.
That thing on your head
is no trifling matter.
You have caused turmoil
and you pose a threat to public order.
You walk in public with an open
light source without a trade licence
or a permit. Should this situation
repeat itself,
we would be forced to keep you here.
You are free to go and I hope
we will never see you again.
But, Inspector,
I can't go outside with this.
You're right, you can't.
(Lost and Found)
- Wait.
You can hide it this way.
That's fine. Be off now.
Umbrella! Umbrella!
Be quiet, urchins!
Do your mischief somewhere else!
Good Heavens!
Oh my God!
A saint!
Silence!
This is a church!
Where did you get that?
- Get what? - That.
Oh, that. That's mine.
I thought it wouldn't bother
anyone here.
All these here
are real.
- So is mine.
In that case, I'll fetch the priest.
That would take too long.
I'll throw them in the money-box.
Kindly leave the church now.
- Let me stay here.
Leave the church at once!
- I can't go outside with this.
Get out!
- ls this how you treat good Christians?
I'll complain to the bishop!
- Complain to the pope, if you like!
Get out!
Keep going!
Heretic!
Nothing is sacred anymore.
District Health Insurance Office
Patient Repons - Surgeries - X-Ray
You need to register first.
At the window over there.
Thank you.
- You're welcome.
Why are you holding
that umbrella?
Come with me.
Come this way.
Good day.
- What seems to be the matter?
Look at what happened
to me, doctor.
MY 900dness!
Well, I'll be damned!
How on eaflh did you get it?
I don't know, doctor.
I can't take it off
or hide it under my hat.
What should I do?
Let me see.
It looks like a gloriole.
- It does, doesn't it?
I've never seen anyihing
like that in my whole life.
Neither did I. - It must be
something quite extraordinary.
A lot has been written lately about
electric currents in the brain.
Perhaps it is some son of radiation.
I'll send you to a psychiatric clinic.
Where? To a psy
- To a psychiatric clinic.
This has to be examined scientifically.
The glowing light is visible to the eye.
Take notes. With luminosity
of approximately five candelas,
the light does not oscillate
or cast shadows.
It does not react to air flow
and it is non-inflammable.
Do you experience any pain? - No.
- Your parents were in good health?
Yes.
- Hereditary disorders or alcoholism?
None.
Venereal diseases perhaps?
- No. - No.
Are you or your relatives prone
to religious exaltation,
or mediumistic abilities
or something like that?
No, nothing like that.
- Professor, is there a possibility
that the light is caused
by materialized brain waves?
Electric brain activity
and its registration
Has been already described by Berger.
However, not on such a case.
Continue, colleague.
Yes, sir. Let's take off your
glasses. Look out of the window.
No. Remain seated
and watch my finger.
Follow it with your eyes.
All the time.
I beg your pardon.
Keep following my finger with your eyes.
His convergence reaction is normal.
- Normal.
Close your eyes and touch the tip
of your nose with your finger-tip.
Normal.
- Normal.
Clasp your hands.
Now pull them away with force.
Close your eyes.
Cross your legs.
Now the other one.
His knee-jerk is normal.
- Normal.
Have you ever
suffered a head injury?
No.
- Have you ever had wild dreams?
No, just once when I had a fever,
I dreamt I was falling somewhere.
Were you in the Salvation Army?
No. I was only a member
ofthe Sokol physical training union.
A member of the Sokol.
- The Sokol.
What is troubling you?
- Nothing.
What is it that you want from us then?
Professor, I beg you,
get rid of it or let me stay here.
I can't walk around in public with this.
If you only knew what I had to
go through. - Very well.
He'll stay here and we'll
perform all additional tests.
I'm so grateful, Professor.
Come here.
Pee into this.
Over there.
Spread your fingers, put them together.
Spread your fingers.
Negative.
Mingazzini is negative.
Is it painful? - No.
- And this? - No.
Tapping on the head is not painful.
It tickles!
- Babinsky is negative.
Breathe.
Take nice deep breaths.
No, no!
No hereditary disorders.
No alcoholism, kleptomania,
or suicide!
I wasn't in the Salvation Army!
I'm usually calm and collected!
But what you've been doing to me
could easily drive me insane!
Calm down, everyihing
will bejust fine.
We will send you home and you will
come for a check-up in some time.
Professor, let me stay here, I can't go
among normal people with this.
From a clinical view, you're quite
healthy. I'm sending you home.
Have mercy, gentlemen.
I want to stay here!
I can't go outside with this, Professor!
I want to stay here!
Help! Help!
Who is it? - It's me, Dr. Vanasek
from the Health Insurance Office.
Dr. Vanasek?
Good evening, doctor.
Come in.
- Thank you. Good evening.
I was in the neighbourhood
calling on a patient
so I stopped by.
How are you feeling?
Is it still glowing?
- It is. - Let me have a look.
It is indeed glowing.
I'm finished, doctor.
I can't go outside with this.
Show me your tongue. More.
Did the psychiatrists examine you?
You may close your mouth.
For three days.
They were driving me insane.
Science demands patience, my friend.
You'll be a famous scientific
case one day.
I almost am.
Be quiet, Johnny?!
Not even the poor animal
can stand looking at me.
I'll leave some bromine for you.
It's paid from your health insurance.
Take a spoonful before going to bed
and give some to your dog too
in case it doesn't calm down.
You see, I'm not much of a believer
in the supernatural.
The cause must be neural.
It isn't, doctor.
- Do you think so?
Listen, Mr. Knotek,
you haven't done anyihing,
how should I put it,
anyihing saintly by chance, have you?
Saintly?
- I mean something unusual.
A vifluous deed or something like that.
A vifluous deed?
Listen, if I were in your place,
I would sin a little.
Sin?
What do you mean, doctor?
To curse,
blaspheme against God.
Blaspheme?
- It won't do you harm
and it's woflh a try.
Maybe it will disappear.
Take care of yourself.
Good night, Mr. Knotek.
- Good night.
In case it doesn't disappear,
come to my surgery. Good night.
Good night.
Thanks a lot.
Shut up.
I can't stand listening to you!
Blaspheme.
It's easy to say blaspheme!
Blimey!
Damn it!
What a damned life!
Damned lousy life!
To hell with it!
But I won't leave it this way!
I've been considerate more than enough!
- Calm down, Mr. Knotek.
Wait, please, don't ruin my life.
They'll fire me.
Look what became of me!
Good Heavens, you can't go in
the office with this.
I don't care anymore!
I'm a mere scientific case!
With files at the clinic and the police,
I can have another one with the chief!
Not so loud, please,
someone might hear you.
Let them all hear me! And you
ought to mind your own business
and stop making mistakes
for which others have to pay!
I know, it was all my fault.
- You won't mollify me!
How can a wisp of a fellow
like you have twins!
How careless! Besides, you can't even
add one and one together!
Look at what a mess you've made!
- Please, Mr. Knotek.
Don't do it! Have mercy!
- Mercy?!
Does anyone have mercy on me?
Everyone should mind their own business!
Enough! The bank is not supposed
to help anybody!
Everyone should mind their
own business! It's simple as that!
I therefore propose the following
Do you see that?
To get the record straight, sir,
the messed up current account
for which you dressed me down
was not my work at all!
There's hardly a bigger spitfire
and a brute in the world!
You're good at pestering
your employees!
Mr. Knotek, calm down.
We'll son this out.
There's nothing to son out.
You never howl down the girls.
You dictate to them.
But is it really so?
Where does such a girl get the money
to buy her make-up and silk stockings?
I beg your pardon!
I agree with you, colleague.
And then someone plays the stock market
and the bank goes bankrupt!
Mr. Knotek, please. - There's nothing
but dir1y tricks everywhere
and one should just watch and keep
silent. Not me, sir.
I won't keep silent any longer!
That current account
thanks to which you almost fired me
was messed up by Sembera.
Not me! So be so kind and dress
him down instead of me!
The light... it went out.
It's gone.
It's all right. It's gone.
THE MYSTERY OF WRITING
Directed by
The queen of spades is a woman.
The main cause of your trouble.
Yes. It is true.
Is it
- Divide the pack into three.
Into three. There.
Disaster is approaching your home.
Disaster? I see.
Disaster! Disaster!
- Here. You see?
The jack of heads in a Prague street.
Jack in a Prague street. ls he coming
from the country or from abroad?
The Prague street means
he is close to you. - I see.
Look, this is you, that's the man
and the woman is here.
The ten of clubs behind her
means great doubts and unceflainty.
Yes, great unceflainty.
- She hesitates.
She hasn't decided yet.
- Decided what?
You're jealous of her. Suspicious.
Is she unfaithful?
Infidelity
Where is infidelity? Here.
The queen of clubs is
still far from your home.
Beware of the jack in the
Prague street, though.
I should, shouldn't I?
ENTRY
KARLIK DETECTIVE BUREAU
KARLIK IS DISCREET AND RELIABLE
Your wife. If I'm not
mistaken, we are to watch her.
Yes.
- Discreetness is guaranteed.
Our bureau is reliable. We've received
hundreds ofthank you letters.
Kindly fill in your name and address.
The advance is fifty crowns.
How much?
- Fifty crowns, sir.
She was in Spalena Street and at
the milliner's from 10.00 to 10.30 am.
She then went by tram to Mustek
where she entered Sterba's
Confectionery at 10.40 am.
She sat alone and ordered two
cakes and Viennese Coffee.
She left a half-crown tip.
She went to the hairdressefis
at 11.10 am.
I need facts. I need to be cenain.
I need evidence.
Some cases need time.
And oppoflunity.
- What?!
Yes, every case is different.
One can never be too careful in the city
where one is constantly watched.
Do you have a weekend house?
- Listen here
Let's go to my office.
- With pleasure.
What did you mean?
- A shod business trip may also
serve our purpose or you
may send your wife to a spa.
Provide her with
a little more freedom.
I had a case once,
the name is not relevant.
We were following the lady
for 6 months with no result.
Yet, after three days in Marienbad,
we caught her in the very act.
Listen
- Good day.
Good day, the boss
- Do not disturb him.
I'll look at some sets in the meantime.
Do you have
Good day, Coufl Counsel.
Goodbye, Coufl Counsel.
- Farewell.
Hello.
Why don't you go to the back
and son the auction items.
What business have you with that fellow?
Is it ...?
- It is.
It seems you'll soon divorce me, Tony.
You don't say!
- ls it you?
Your wife Maflha? No.
She's unfaithful, my friend.
Have you got any evidence?
- No, none at all.
That's the worst thing.
I'm not getting any younger
and if Maflha came herself
and asked me
We'd agree somehow.
I'm no savage.
But the unceflainty is unbearable.
- I believe you.
Sometimes,
it's not easy to find evidence.
I believe in happenchance.
In accidental, I daresay,
uncontrolled manifestations
that one lets slip now and then.
One has to be a psychologist.
Pure truth is encountered
in this valley of tears
only when a human
being spills the beans.
This is nice.
- What should I do?
Well
It's a matter of experience, my friend.
A woman always lets herself get caught.
Sometimes,
all it takes is a single word.
One lies even when one doesn't have to.
- Yes
You're absolutely right, it's nothing
but pretence and lies.
You know I'd do anyihing
to please Maflha.
If only I were ceflain of her fidelity.
Jealousy, my friend, is terrible.
Why should a decent woman
let herself be dishonoured for nothing!
- For nothing?!
Did you hear that, Your Honour?
Infidelity is nothing!
You're a jealous and suspicious tyrant
who's spying on me all the time!
It's no life. It's a purgatory!
- It's sheer hell, Your Honour!
Silence, please.
As you can see, plaintiff, nothing
in the testimonies of the witnesses
proves the defendant guilty
of marital infidelity.
What about the Mr. Vflatkds letters?
He debauched my wife!
Mr. Vrtatko testified that
his intimate relationship with your wife
had ended long before her marriage.
- Yes! Long before my marriage.
Silence! Pre-marital relationships
are irrelevant to the court.
There are plenty of marital matters
the court has to deal with.
If you have no new evidence, I advise
you to withdraw your petition
and stop wasting your money.
But, Your Honour, I
- Think it over.
Defendant, there is one thing
I've been wanting to ask you.
Didn't Mr. Vnatko cure his TBC
in a mountain sanatorium?
TBC? No. As far as I know, he was
keen on ski jumping.
As a leisure spor1 I presume.
- No, as a professional.
He even won a silver medal in the Tatras
despite not being in a good shape.
I mean I read it in the papers.
That's interesting.
Do you remember
in what newspaper by chance?
No. I don't remember.
- You don't remember.
Very well.
Incidentally, I have a results repofl
from the Skiers Union of all
competitions held in the Tatras,
in which Mr. Vflatko paflicipated.
And it says here
that Mr. Vflatko
won a silver medal in the Tatras
only once and it was this year.
I don't seem to understand
- Just a moment, please.
In the file,
appended under Annex M,
we have a letter signed:
"With love from your Bohous."
Allow me to quote the letter.
"Had I been in a better shape,
sweetheart, I would have won gold."
You claim it is a letter written
to you before your marriage.
The letter is not dated, nonetheless,
as mentioned before,
Mr. Vflatko has won a silver medal
in the Tatras only this year.
It is thus obvious that the letter
is also from this year.
All this proves that you have
not spoken the truth
and that you have committed
marital infidelity.
There you have it!
I said it was Vflatko!
Indeed.
I believe the defendant
will plead guilty
and we may close the case.
Where were we?
- The defendant claims
In accordance with the lodged action,
the defendant pleads guilty
of committing marital infidelity.
Bravo, Tony. It was marvellous work.
How you cornered her
and forced her to confess.
If only I could do it the same way.
I'd give anyihing
to finally learn the truth.
- lt needs time, my friend.
It took five hearings to make
the woman convict herself.
Where did she go?
She had to say something!
Perhaps she went shopping.
- Nonsense. She went shopping yesterday.
Wasn't she going to see someone?
Did anyone call her?
Someone did.
- Who was it? Tell me!
I don't know, sir. She answered
the phone herself.
I see.
What is it? Wait!
What was she wearing?
The beige pleated dress,
a light-coloured hat,
snakeskin coufl shoes a bag,
a pink chemise
Enough! Be off.
Where did you go afterwards?
I went for a shod walk in the park.
And then? - I sent
the money orders you had given me.
The post office was crowded.
Then I went to the cemetery
to visit mother.
To the cemetery?
And what about the hairdressefis?
Maflha, why aren't you
telling me the truth?
Why are you so suspicious all the time?!
Since you're spying on me,
why don't you search me!
Here are the tram tickets.
- Martha, dear
Manha
- I can't stand it anymore!
This is no life!
This is a purgatory!
Maflha, dear
Maflha
What a pleasant surprise!
Welcome, Aflhur.
- How are you?
We haven't seen each
other for ages. - Indeed.
Young and charming as always, Maflha.
What can I do for you, Aflhur?
I need to buy a small gift.
I see. What did you have in mind?
Is she a blond or a brunette?
You will never change,
Aflhur, will you?
Where are you going
on holiday this year, Aflhur?
I don't know yet,
it depends on the situation.
But I'll see you in Senohraby
in August.
Maflha
I thought it might be best for you
to go to a spa.
Wouldn't you like that?
Do you want to make up for what
you've done? - It would do you good.
You could relax
and enjoy a little freedom.
I couldn't come with you right away
but I could join you
in a foflnight or so if you want.
Excuse me. I beg your pardon.
Thank you.
Have we got everyihing?
- I beg your pardon, madam.
Not at all. It was my fault.
ls this seat free?
You may sit by the window if you like.
- You are most kind.
No, you'd sit in a draught
and it's a smoker's compaflment.
We can smoke in the corridor.
- Thank you.
You must have a comfoflable journey.
- Oh yes.
Over here.
- ls this seat free?
What's this?
- I don't know.
Bye! Don't forget to write!
You're a grass widower now, aren't you?
We are going to the spa this year too.
During the coufl holidays,
aren't we, dear?
To Marienbad?
- It's our favourite, isn't it, dear?
Yes. - Let's hope you and your wife
will still be there when we arrive.
There.
- Excuse me.
I need your advice.
Do you think he will like it? You see,
we are celebrating our twentieth
wedding anniversary soon.
- I am sure he will like it very much.
It's marvellous work.
- I'm so happy.
Never mind.
Well.
Isn't it strange how - You two
surely have a lot to talk about.
Besides, I have work to do.
- Yes, dear.
Thank you.
I envy you, Tony.
Your marriage is so happy
Really? I must admit
it's working well, though.
How are things with you and your wife?
- I've tried almost everyihing.
I waited for her to give herself away
as you told me.
She often lied to me but
- It's a typical woman's habit.
A woman will never tell you
she spent two hours at the milliner's.
She will claim she was
at the dentist or the hairdressefis.
These half-truths and half-lies,
old chum, are the pillars
of normal human relations,
especially in marriage.
Why did you let her go to the spa?
I'm so ashamed.
She's being watched there to.
By that fellow you know.
I know. You're wasting your money.
Only happenchance will provide
you with downright evidence.
Trust me.
It needs time.
- Time, time!
But the unceflainty is unbearable!
I'm not much of
a believer in the supernatural.
Jensen is one
ofthe world's best, you'll see.
If you say so.
Jensen!
Come, I've arranged everyihing.
Pretend that you're repoflers.
I'm highly interested in your opinion.
This way, gentlemen.
These are the main principles
of scientific
psychometric graphology.
As you can see, the overall system
is built on purely experimental laws.
The practical use ofthese
exact methods is quite complex.
Mr. Jensen will therefore
analyse two or three samples
of hand-writing, without
explaining the whole process.
We do not have time for that.
- He's a swindler.
Gentlemen, could you provide
us with a hand-written document?
A hand of a woman.
Mr. Jensen says that
a man's writing is usually
more distinct and attractive.
The woman who wrote this
has correct moral values.
She does not steal or lie
and she is not deceitful.
Her hand is soothing,
as if a hand of reconciliation.
She is devoted.
She is someone one can rely on.
Everyihing seems quite all right.
This writing is in no way special.
Mr. Jensen would like another,
a more interesting sample.
Have you got something?
Coufl files.
- That's perfect.
Is it from a person close to you?
By no means.
- Every writing has its fluidum, you see.
It is a purely physical phenomenon.
In this case, Mr. Jensen
does not need to see the writing,
merely touching it is sufficient.
It is a deceitful woman.
She is a low person,
quite lustful and disorderly.
Her home must be rather unsightly.
She is superficial
with down-to-eaflh interests.
Yet, she is only hiding
her true thoughts.
She is extremely fond of comfort
That is why she throws herself
at a person, persuading him
how well she is taking care of him.
She is one those women in the
face of whom any man is a weakling.
Her endless chattering
turns him into a weakling.
She wants to order others about
and she does just that.
Interesting.
It's a fitting description.
May I ask a question, please?
How does she have her will?
Through the vilest tyranny.
The tyranny of tears.
At the same time, she is hiding
something, perhaps from the past.
She is peculiar about little things
but when it comes to major things,
she lacks discipline.
She is simply a slattern.
The writing bespeaks
of insidious thoughts.
Sharp as a stab in the back.
Although, she will not do it
for she is too self-indulgent.
That seems to be all.
Remarkable!
It fits the case precisely.
He got everyihing right.
The woman is a notorious criminal.
I went to see my mother.
Dinner is in the stove. Elizabeth.
A world sensation, eh?!
He's a cheater!
A woman who doesn't lie
and will never deceive anyone.
He's a swindler.
- What? - What?
It's just happenchance. He gets it right
the first time but not the second.
He got your case right, didn't he?
It seems I forgot the file at home.
At home? How come?
- There was a note from my wife.
What? Your wife?
Nonsense!
He's a swindler!
Happenchance
A satisfied husband makes
a happy housewife.
Dinner is in the stove.
Add a little water to the rice.
You're home already?
- Why?
Hedvika kept me long,
she wouldn't stop talking.
You haven't had dinner yet.
I'll heat it up for you in a jiffy.
What?
- What? Nothing.
Nothing!
I've made your favourite
beef tongue on anchovies.
All you keep talking about is food!
Down-to-eaflh interests.
I know, it turns men into weaklings.
Beef tongue on anchovies!
Why are you talking like that, dear?
ls something the matter?
You're always so caring, aren't you?!
Don't be silly.
Don't you know your wife?
Don't you trust her?
It can be all just pretence.
And pretence is not easy to reveal.
Only through science. Like Jensen.
And I say maybe.
You know I had her note on me.
And that's the accidental evidence!
Do you think you could actually live
with someone for twenty years
without noticing anyihing?
- Jensen opened my eyes.
Only now I see all the deceitfulness.
All of a sudden, I see how she threw
herself at me to live in comfort
To satisfy her lustfulness!
How disgusting!
Did I do something to you?
I'm not aware of anyihing.
There was never a cross word
between us and now
What are these rags doing here?!
I was mending your shins.
You were mending my shifls?
Well, well!
Do you think it allows
you to order me about?!
No! It will all stop now!
No!
If you have something against me,
say it straight!
What do I know about you?
Nothing at all!
You are hiding your secrets well!
I don't even know your past!
I beg your pardon!
What is the matter with you?
Nothing is the matter with me!
First of all, I'll get rid ofthe rags!
They're only in the way.
There!
Well, look here!
There we have it!
You're peculiar about little things.
While, in fact, you're
nothing but a slattern!
Does this belong there?!
- Did I deserve this after 20 years?
I want you to tell me
what I have done wrong.
Nothing. Nothing at all!
Is it wrong that one's
wife is disorderly,
deceitful and lustful?
No!
Moreover, such a low person!
Stop it!
You won't fool me any longer
with that tyranny of tears!
BEWARE OF GLASS
Look. It's old Janowitz's wife
with such a youngling!
They're all the same.
Poor Janowitz.
I'm sure he doesn't know
his wife is a cheater.
How can one trust them.
And that detective, that leech,
keeps writing
that everyihing is quite all right.
Everyihing is quite all right while
she is able to stab you in the back.
Although, she is too
self-indulgent to do it.
A letter from Maflha.
Won't you read it?
I know it by head.
I suppose
Oh my! She gave herself away!
She finally did! Dear Aflhur.
I have it in black and white, look.
It's your accidental evidence!
- What?
It's all clear now!
She confused the envelopes!
Aflhur is the biggest womanizer
I know and I had no idea!
Calm down. Continue reading.
Forgive me for not replying
to your letter of last month sooner.
I have not received a letter
from my dear husband for weeks,
he must be up to his ears in work.
You must understand that without
any news of my husband
for so long, I have lost track
oftime and I feel so lonely.
She feels so lonely, look.
- So lonely.
I would like to ask you
to take Frank out.
He has been acting a little nervous
A little nervous and strange lately.
You have not written anyihing
about your new love.
It must be very hot in Prague
and I am so worried about Frank.
He should take a vacation
and join me.
When are you coming to Senohraby?
You cannot imagine
how a woman feels like
when she misses her sweetheart
When she misses her sweetheafl!
Tony, she is faithful!
She is faithful!
Yours sincerely,
Maflha Karasova.
The truth will show
itself by happenchance.
I'm so happy I'd cry with joy.
Frank!
Maflha.
- Hello.
Welcome, Coufl Counsel.
Why didn't you take your
wife with you?
Well, the thing is
- He needed a break.
He's been worrying a lot lately.
- Really?
What's troubling you?
- You see
You know how it goes at the court
- You know how it goes.
It's good that you've come
to spend the Sunday.
It's so nice here.
Frank, I'm so happy.
Do you like it?
You're such a darling, Frank.
Don't mention it, dear.
Did you get my letter?
What letter? I haven't received
any letter this week.
I sent it on Tuesday.
Or did I
What did you write?
- As usual.
I was asking you to join me,
that I miss you and things like that.
It got probably lost on the way.
Shall we join Tony on the colonnade?
But let me change first.
Did you enjoy yourself here, dear?
I'll tell you everylhing.
Go ahead and I'll join you.
As I have informed you,
everyihing is quite all right.
Here's your money.
I won't need you anymore.
I had some cash expenses, sir.
Just a trifle one can't avoid in a spa.
Expended in the client's best interest.
- Keep the change.
Thank you, sir?
Look, Jensen!
There's no use denying it.
He got everyihing right.
Just in my case, I mean.
What about the letter, honey?
Did it help?
Who is it?
- It's me, sir.
Good day, sir.
- Good day.
I'm at your service, sir.
I must admit
I feel a little ashamed of myself.
Frank trusts me so much now.
I'll take the evening train.
- Why all so early?
I don't want to leave
my wife alone for so long.
You're absolutely right.
Our wives can't be without us.
Can they?
A LEGAL CASE
Directed by
ls he here?
Good evening. I was in the neighbourhood
so I thought I could stop by
to see if you were home.
You don't look well.
I hope it's not the flu.
I thought it was him.
- Who?
The dead old man!
- Oh yes. The dead
Perhaps I should come
when you're feeling better.
I'm not sick. I'm fine.
I'm quite all right.
Believe me.
It's just that this whole thing
got me a little confused.
That damned old man!
And you are?
- I'm from the insurance company.
From the insurance company, I see.
I have it right here.
His death ceflificate.
It's for the pension, you see?
I see. A death ceflificate
for the pension.
We don't do that, sir.
We're an insurance company.
I came because of your car insurance.
I won't keep you, though.
I can come at another time
since you're expecting that man.
He's not coming. Not tonight.
Would you like a cup of coffee?
Yes?
I'll make some coffee.
- Yes.
You
- But
You can't imagine what I've been going
through because of him.
Oh no. - I'll make us some coffee.
- No, thank you, I don't drink coffee.
I know. I'm afraid to stay home,
at work I'm restless.
I keep hiding, yet he finds
me everywhere. - Oh yes.
Everywhere, everywhere!
- Oh yes.
I'll make the coffee.
- Yes.
And it's happening at night, isn't it?
I know what I'm talking about.
Not at night but in the day!
That's what's strange about it.
He goes home at night. By train.
He's got an employee pass
so he travels almost for free.
You see, he's a retired railwayman.
And the point is they
took away his pension
when he had died.
- When he had died.
I would be surprised
if they didn't, wouldn't you?
That's why he keeps coming to me.
During the day, you say?
- All the time, all the time.
That's interesting.
I've never heard of such a thing.
Some people nowadays, eh? They die,
and they still want their pension.
Good heavens! I completely forgot
I was supposed to
I'll stop by some other time.
- Don't go! I've got to tell you!
Please stay. I'm so glad you're here.
Try to understand me.
He's dead.
In a way at least.
Everyihing was just fine.
It says here in black and white
in his death ceflificate.
Antonin Banos,
retired railway employee.
He wouldn't be that bad
if it weren't for his kin.
They're setting him against me.
So is he dead or not?
To be quite frank, it's all so crazy.
It's complete nonsense.
Absolute nonsense.
Completely crazy!
Completely crazy.
Just a moment!
Calm down.
Take it easy.
The coffee is ready, isn't it?
It happened some six months ago.
I was driving at a speed of some
50 miles per hour towards a bend,
thinking that the road behind
it was free.
Well, I was awfully wrong!
It's Grandfather!
What's the matter? What time is it?
Grandpa, they almost buried you!
It's Grandpa! Our grandpa, look!
- Do you see that?
M373'-
Frank.
Hurry! Clear the way.
That skid came just in time,
don't you think?
Why are you so pale, Charlie?
Come, Grandpa, I'll take you home.
You'll rest a while
and we'll send for a doctor.
What for?
- He's so cute.
Everyihing will be just fine.
You'll feel like a newborn!
Would you be so kind and show
me the way, Father?
Let's see if you can get in.
- Give me your hand, Father.
With the Lord's help,
we may be able to
Watch your step, Father
How are you feeling, Grandpa?
Oh dear.
I'll pay for the coffin
and for the doctor.
You're a damned lucky man.
Just to think
what would have become of you
if my car had not skidded.
You can thank me for
not being buried alive.
Am I right, Father?
It's all right.
We're here, Grandpa.
Slowly, don't rush.
Wait. Don't move.
Slowly. Like a newborn.
Like a newborn baby.
There
Look at how well he is walking.
Wait!
Wait here.
Don't move.
Father
You're home, Grandpa.
Do you understand?
After you, Father.
Good Lord!
What a beautiful place!
And the fresh air!
Well
Well, Grandpa.
What would you like?
I'd like my pipe.
Your pipe, eh?
Where is your Pipe?
Here it is.
Maybe they wanted
to throw it away.
It will serve you long and well.
Well, I ought to be going now.
Farewell, Father.
I'm so glad it ended so well.
I hope you enjoy
a couple more years.
Why don't you come to Prague
for a visit some day.
I'd take you to the ZOO or a museum.
Let's write it politely.
As the family wished
the grandfather, Antonin Banos,
to have a proper funeral,
it used up all its savings.
However, since the grandfather
has been risen from the dead,
as a result of your reckless driving,
it will be necessary
to bury him once more,
which the above-named
family cannot afford.
Tell him that he has to pay
for the whole ruined funeral.
Including your fee, Father.
- The band, the caretaker and the wake!
Of course
- And my shroud too.
He rose you from the dead
so he should put things in order.
One cannot fool around with such
things without paying for it.
Either he'll get your pension back
or he'll pay it himself.
It's a clear legal case. We will surely
find suitable aflicles of law.
First of all, we will claim
smafl money from him.
I presume it could amount
to five thousand.
Is something troubling you, Mr. Kupr?
- Yes. I mean, no.
Good day!
What brings you here, Grandpa?
How are you?
Didn't I tell you?
You're like a newborn!
You'll enjoy a couple more years.
I wish God would take me.
Why are you talking like that?
It's the old man I told you about.
A fine fellow, isn't he?
If it weren't for me,
he wouldn't have been standing here.
I came because of my pension.
They say I'm not entitled
to it because I'm dead.
How can they say that?
You're as fit as a fiddle!
They say they have a ceflificate.
What ceflificate?
You're here, alive and well.
Go there in person.
- Do you think it will help?
Of course it will.
But my son, his wife
and even the lawyer told me
that you should pay me
a lifelong annuity, you see?
But
- I think it's nonsense too.
It is nonsense. Look,
go to the office yourself,
tell them you're not dead and that you
have a right to receive your pension.
Good bye.
Nobody saw me?
Are you sure?
Which floor is it?
- 6th floor.
Is it far from the lift?
- No.
I'm afraid.
- There's no need.
There's hardly a chance
somebody might see you.
I'd have to leave at once. It's
not woflh it. He's awfullyjealous.
Don't worry.
There's absolutely no chance
somebody
- Good evening.
Why didn't you go home?
They're sending me
from one office to another.
So I came to you.
I'm officially dead for them
and I'm not entitled to my pension.
You won't let them treat you
like that, will you?
Of course not! I've been ailing
since you rose me from the dead.
You've crippled me!
I'm not my old self anymore!
I'm good for nothing.
They have to make
more solid meals for me!
Do something!
Grandpa! Mr. Baflos! ls this how
you express your gratefulness?
Is this what I get for saving you?
I literally helped you
escape the grave!
Enough!
I don't want to hear another word!
What do you want?
Listen
Stop following me.
From now on I don't know you.
This is the 20th century, address your
claims to the insurance company!
Farewell!
It was all over and now
I have to die once more.
He will pay or I'll take it
to the Supreme Court
Let me tell you something, Mr. Kundera.
It should be punished
the same way as murder.
He won't get rid of me
as long as I live.
As long as I live!
890.
He'll drive me crazy.
Or I'll have to run him over once more.
I don't see any other solution.
One shouldn't interfere with fate
or he's asking for big trouble.
Calm down and come back.
It's not him.
It can't be.
It's at the neighbour's door.
He always rings twice.
Maybe he won't come.
Maybe he went to
the insurance company.
And maybe he'll never come again!
He won't come again, will he?
Ever.
It's such an awkward situation
for me, Mr. Kupr.
How should I put it.
Look, Mr. Kupr, take it as a joke,
be a sport
The thing is
Tell me!
Calm down and tell me.
The thing is you haven't paid
your car insurance policy.
I'm back.
A SAD END
GLORIA
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THE MYSTERY OF WRITING
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A LEGAL CASE
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