Queen of the Stardust Ballroom (1975) - full transcript

(light music)

- [Announcer] Dr. Prue Dr. Prue.

Dr. Neufeld Dr. Neufeld.

(man clearing throat)

Dr. Arthurdo Dr. Arthurdo.

Dr. Mag you're wanted in dermatology.

Dr. Mag you're wanted in dermatology.

Dr. Prue Dr. Prue.

Dr. Neufeld Dr. Neufeld.

- [Woman] Louis please
sit down for a while.

- [Louis] Huh?



- [Woman] You're making me nervous.

- [Woman] Sit down Louis.

Come on sit next to me.

- [Louis] I don't want to sit.

I'm too pent up.

- [Woman] He needs to move around Daniella.

(woman crying)

- [Louis] What's wrong?

- [Woman] Poor daddy.

- [Woman] That's enough.

- Let her cry it's better to let it out.

- [Woman] He's not dead yet.

Save your tears for the funeral.

- [Man] Helen.



(door thuds)

- [Doctor] We did everything
we could Mrs. Asher.

I'm sorry.

- Daddy's gone.

(light somber music)

(talk show on tv chattering)

(light music)

(door shutting)

(gentle music)

(water flowing)

Who gave you permission?

Who said you could go?

You know if you asked
me I would have said no.

♪ You always said we'd grow old together ♪

♪ You promised that's the way it would be ♪

♪ You never said that one would go first ♪

♪ How could you do this to me ♪

♪ Who is there to cook for ♪

♪ And what's there to clean ♪

♪ And how will I fill up ♪

♪ The washing machine ♪

♪ How do you sleep with nobody snoring ♪

♪ Waste a tea bag for one cup of tea ♪

♪ One loaf of bread will last me a month ♪

♪ How could you do this to me ♪

♪ Who's going to balance the check book ♪

♪ Who will correct me when I'm right ♪

♪ Who's going to change the fuse ♪

♪ Zip me up in the back ♪

♪ Who's going to kiss me goodnight ♪

♪ Who said I was ready ♪

♪ Who said I was strong ♪

♪ I'd never desert you ♪

♪ Not after so long ♪

♪ You helped me through
the birth of our children ♪

♪ You did your share of
bottles and diapers ♪

♪ There at my side through
mumps and through measles ♪

♪ You drove the car paid off the mortgage ♪

♪ You always made me go to the dentist ♪

♪ And only you remembered my birthday ♪

♪ Whenever there was trouble ♪

♪ You managed to fix it somehow ♪

♪ And if ever there was
a time I needed you ♪

♪ It's now ♪

(horn honking)

- What'd the doctor say?

- He said what he always
says that I'm too fat.

- How's your blood pressure?

- Fine fine.

- The kids can't wait to see you.

- Oh I'll be glad to see them too.

- All week long they've been asking Diane

when's Gram coming when's Gram coming?

- Boy he loved his grandchildren more

than anything on the earth.

- They thought the world of him too.

- He had a way with children.

- True true.

Wait till you see the
shoes I bought for you.

Six pairs our latest fashion
they're very special.

- What am I gonna do with all those shoes?

What am I gonna wear them for?

- Well life has to go on Bea.

- I guess.

(light music)

- Well how was the roast?

- It's good.

- Very tender.

- Not overdone?

- Perfect.

- I bet you miss Grandpa huh Grandma?

- Terry.

- Oh that's all right.

It's good to talk about
him so we don't forget.

- Go play in the yard girls.

- Hey Ma you want some
ice cream with that cake?

- Oh no.

- Diane she just finished telling you

she's got to watch her weight. (laughing)

- Hey ma Louis and I feel
you ought to sell the house

and move in with us.

We feel your house is
too big for one person.

- We got lots of space here.

You could have your own room.

- The girls would just love it.

- I've never lived any
place except the Bronx.

- What is so terrific about the Bronx?

- Just a big slum!

- That's the reason we moved out here.

- I've lived there all my life.

- Then it's time for a change.

- It'll be so lonely for you Ma.

- It'll be lonely for me any
place without your father.

- Here at least you'd have the kids.

- All right I'll think about it.

- Oh sure.

We don't expect you to make
a decision immediately.

I mean give it plenty of
thought take your time.

- But just remember Bea
our door is always open.

- Thank you.

- Now if my memory serves

Maury provided for you very well.

Bea?

- I'm okay.

Now we're in a professional
capacity here Bea.

All right?

Now in this office we're
not relatives okay?

- Okay.

- Right.

It's not that I don't feel for you.

I understand.

- I guess scold me if I start to cry.

I don't want to cry anymore I cried enough.

- Good.

Now I will need

your signature in a few places.

- You know I've been thinking.

Maybe I'd like to go to work.

- Sign at the X.

- Sure had a lot of clothes.

- You see anything that
you like you can have it.

- Dad and I didn't have
quite the same taste

in clothing mom.

- Soon as you catch a breath come on down

the basement with me.

- What for?

- I wanna show you something.

Diane thinks I should sell this house

and move in with her.

- [Son] That's an idea.

- I know but I don't wanna
be dependent on anybody.

- Mom what is all this?

- My whole life is here.

I never threw anything away.

- This is incredible it's all my old toys.

Look at this David's baby clothes.

Mom my sailor suit!

- You remember this?

- I sure do that's my old rocking horse.

- Diane used it before you.

- Diane used everything before me.

(chuckling)

These true still?

- I don't think I ever threw
away a stitch of clothes.

I bet some of them are
worth something now huh?

- Ma are you kidding?

All this old stuff I bet you

that this is worth a small fortune.

- That's what I thought.

I'll tell you something.

I know it sounds a little crazy but

I always had an ambition

to open a business and be my own boss.

- That's your ambition huh?

- Oh I know it sounds a little crazy

but the other day I was thinking about

what to do with the rest of my life.

I came down here and I looked around and

I said to myself Bea God is
trying to tell you something.

I'm gonna open a junk shop.

- God told you to open a junk shop huh?

- Why not?

- Ma opening a store is not an easy thing.

In fact it's very complicated.

- Oh I know dear but you'll help me.

- Oh sure Ma.

- I already called a lawyer
and he's working on it.

- Ma look you know I want
what's best for you right?

- The mind is made up.

- Okay.

(light music)

Your father won this at Coney Island.

First year we were married he said

it reminded him of me.

- Mom are you really gonna be
able to sell all this stuff?

- Oh not this I'd never sell that.

- Yeah what about the rest of these things?

- Oh they're just things aren't they?

- I'll go load the car.

(light music)

♪ Pennies and dreams ♪

♪ Bright and shining ♪

♪ Pennies and dreams ♪

♪ I've saved them all ♪

♪ Pennies for ponies ♪

♪ And rainy day wishes ♪

♪ Rings for my fingers ♪

♪ And red candy apples ♪

♪ And if I found one ♪

♪ All lucky and new ♪

♪ I'd tuck tomorrow ♪

♪ Away in my shoe ♪

♪ Pennies and dreams ♪

♪ Sweet and secret ♪

♪ Tell me a dream ♪

♪ I've had them all ♪

♪ Love letter summers ♪

♪ A dance into fall ♪

♪ Organ deep dresses ♪

♪ A belle of the ball ♪

♪ I see the memories ♪

♪ Reflected in yesterday's dreams ♪

♪ And I'll spend forever ♪

♪ Saving my pennies ♪

♪ And dreams ♪

(train chugging)

(car honking)

- Madness.

My sister's gone completely mad.

What does she need this headache for?

- That's what I thought.

- She used up almost every penny

of Maury's insurance for this?

- Now look Helen if it
makes her happy let her do

what she wants.

- Happy.

You you're the one I'm really surprised at.

You're her favorite.

You could have stopped it.

- What what's wrong with
her starting a business huh?

- You know perfectly
well that within a month

we'll be lugging all this
stuff back to the house.

- Aunt Helen is right.

- She's not right.

- Just kills me that I'm breaking my back

and for what?

- So far you haven't done anything yet.

- Who asked you?

The only reason you're in this family

is because of me.

(buzzer buzzing)

- Oh Helen what are you doing here?

- Put your coat on we're
taking you to dinner.

- Oh I just made dinner.

I was just gonna sit down to eat.

- Well you shouldn't eat alone so much.

Come on Jack's double parked.

- I don't want to intrude.

- Intrude?

Here's your coat.

- Helen.

- I talked him into Chinese
food so don't argue come on.

You love Chinese food.

- [Jack] Since when?

- Since when did you hear him?

- Maybe I'm tired of Chinese food

do you ever think of that?

- Why didn't you say so?

- (scoffing) Why didn't I say so get her.

First thing she says to me
when I walk in the door tonight

is let's take Bea out for Chinese food.

Bea loves Chinese food.

- So?

Don't you love Chinese food Bea?

- Well there you are.

What do you expect me to say?

No let's have Italian
because I'm in the mood

for Italian tonight?

Bea loves Chinese food so much

I could be big about it can I?

- What so if that's the case

why haven't you stopped
complaining since we got here?

- Complaining?

Who's complaining?

Was I complaining?

- Come on.

Bea was he complaining or not?

- [Jack] So there you are.

- I bought this in 1942.

Just after the war started.

It was considered a Joan Crawford style.

I remember my husband always used to say

he thought it was better
on me than Joan Crawford.

- Do you think it's me?

- I think it looks better
on you than me or Joan.

- Do you really think so?

- I wouldn't say so if I didn't mean it.

- Bea what do you want for this?

- [Bea] Oh that's not for sale.

- Oh sorry.

- It's so expensive.

- 15 dollars expensive
for a dress like that?

- Well it's expensive for me.

Natalie what do you think of it?

- Turn around.

I like it.

- It's 15 dollars.

- How much would you like it to be?

- What?

- How much can you spend for it?

- Oh Bea no.

- No come on.

- 10?

- It's yours.

- Really?

- I want you to have it.

(car honking)

(bell ringing)

Hi.

- Hi Ma.

- How are you Bea?

- Oh I'm fine I'm glad to hear you.

You sounded so mysterious on the phone.

- How's business?

- Business is fine.

So?

- So let's grab a cup
of coffee or something.

- What is it?

- We have some news Bea.

- News?

Oh dear.

If it's what I think it
is I couldn't be happier.

- No Bea I'm not pregnant.

- You're not.

- No.

- Oh.

- We're moving.

- You're moving?

- To California.

- California?

- UCLA offered me an
assistant professorship Mom.

They have one of the
finest English departments

in the country.

- California's the other side of the world.

- [David] It's only five hours by jet.

- We thought you'd be happy for us Bea.

- Oh of course I'm happy for you.

It's myself I'm feeling sorry for.

- [David] Ma this was
your ambition this shop.

You have yours and you
know this is what I need.

- California?

(melancholy music)

(cooing)

(cooing)

- Here help me feed my birds.

It's something to do.

And the birds appreciate it. (cooing)

(phone ringing)

- Hello?

Hello Diane.

How are you darling?

How's Louie and the kids?

Good.

I had a letter from Jennifer yesterday.

They found a house finally.

They seem very happy.

I'm all right Diane really I am.

Don't worry about me so much.

No no I don't hear from him.

Well they were daddy's
friends more than mine really.

I wouldn't feel comfortable with a group

of married people anyway.

Yes darling.

Yeah I'll be out on Saturday

after I close the shop.

No I'll take the train.

Why should he drive all
the way up to the Bronx

and then have to go back to the island?

That's silly.

No I'm taking the train period.

Yes dear thank you for calling.

I love you too and the children.

Goodbye.

- What's new Bea?

How's business and every
other little thing?

- Business is good.

Every other little thing could be better.

- I knew it.

You can't hide sadness.

- My son's in Los Angeles
my daughter's in Long Island

my husband's in the ground.

Sometimes I wonder what it's all about.

- Excuse me.

What can I do for you?

- I'll have the bacon
lettuce and tomato on toast.

- BLT down.

Coffee?

- Please.

- Bea can I ask you a personal question?

- Ask me.

- Are there any men in your life?

- Men?

- Yeah men you never heard of them?

- I'm an old woman.

- What?

- I had one man in my life and he's gone.

- Bea take it from me

life begins when your husband dies.

- What?

- You didn't know me when
my husband was alive.

I was dead.

Honest to god I was
breathing I was existing

but I was really dead.

I looked dead I felt dead.

The day he dropped dead I was born.

(laughing)

Bea?

Do you like dancing?

- Dancing?

- Yeah ballroom dancing.

Waltz Rumba Tango that kind of thing.

- Oh as a matter of fact I used to be

a pretty good dancer.

That was a long time ago when I was a girl

and New York was a prairie.

- Do you ever go to the Stardust?

- What's the Stardust?

- It's a ballroom.

I go there all the time.

It's a terrific place for old girls like us

who are young at heart.

It's a very nice crowd.

You ought to come with me sometime.

No really.

It's a terrific band everyone has a ball.

My regular partner is Johnny Cantell

we call him Johnny Lightfeet
because he's light on his feet.

- He really is he's the greatest.

- Martha's got a terrific
dance partner too.

- Petey?

- Of course Petey who else?

I tell you this one is a real ding-a-ling.

- I have a lot of partners Angie.

- But Petey's your regular isn't he?

- Not really.

- Oh he is too.

Tell Bea what we all call Peter.

- The nose.

- Oh wait till you see the
schnozz on that character

but what a dancer.

- He really is.

- Are you okay Bea?

You're so quiet.

- I guess I'm a little nervous.

- Nervous there is nothing
to be nervous about.

It's a nice easygoing crowd.

- It really is they're great.

- Tell you one thing I wish you'd let me

do something with your hair.

- My hair?

- Yeah maybe give it a
little style or something.

- Angie's terrific with hair.

- Turn around.

Have you tried Dolores the hairdresser

next to the luncheon there.

Tell her to give you a little red

or blonde or something.

- I'm not ashamed of getting old.

- My philosophy is if you
look young you feel young.

- My husband didn't approve of dyed hair.

He liked the natural look.

- Since when do husbands know
what's good with their wives?

- That's for sure.

- Martha should know.

She's been married how many times?

- Three.

- Well I thought it was four.

- Three.

- All right all right don't hit me.

- You lovelies.

Thank you thank you.

- This is it Bea.

You're gonna have yourself
a real ball tonight

mark my words.

(light ballroom music)

- I've been waiting for you gorgeous.

- Oh.

Hi Petey.

- Hi Petey.

- How are you Angie?

- I want you to meet my friend Bea.

- How are you?

- How are you doing?

- You bet.

They're playing our song gorgeous.

- I'll see you later girls.

- Petey sells appliances.

If you ever need a refrigerator
or anything like that

he'll get it for you at cost.

I mean it's like a family.

If someone runs a business

he gets sales wholesales into customers.

Come on I'll buy you a drink.

- Angie!

- Shirley I'm glad you're back.

- Oh I'm feeling much better now Angie.

- This is Bea.

- Pleased to meet you Bea.

- How you doing?

- I'll see you later Shirley.

She has a heart condition poor thing.

And she is such a sweet person.

- She's able to go
dancing with a weak heart?

- Nothing stops that one.

- [Bartender] The usual Angie?

- Yeah Jim please.

What do you have?

- Oh I don't.

- No have something.

It'll loosen you up for dancing.

I'm having a Manhattan.

- Same.

- Make it two Jim.

- [Jim] Sure.

(crowd applauding)

(drum rolling)

- Coming events at the Stardust.

On Monday night we're going
to have a tango contest.

(drum rolling)

Anybody interested can sign up at the bar.

On Wednesday before the dancing begins

we have a noted psychologist
from Hunter College

who'll give us a sex education lecture.

You're all invited.

(crowd applauding)

- That's Pauline Krimm.

She's the reigning queen.

- The queen?

- Yeah once a year we hold a contest

to pick a new queen.

She's the one we all
think is the most popular

and friendly woman at the Stardust.

It's her job to go around
and make people happy

so to speak.

It's a real honor.

- And Saturday Chiquita
of the famous dance team

of Jose and Chiquita's
gonna give Samba lessons.

Now they're only 50 cents an hour

so you better hurry up
and sign up at the bar.

And last but not least what
we've all been waiting for

tonight we have a birthday!

This is one of the
favorites of the Stardust.

She won't tell us how old she is.

But she has a wonderful sense of humor

and we are all just crazy about her.

It's Miss Emily Vogel.

Emily where are you?

(crowd applauding)

("For He's A Jolly Good Fellow")

(crowd applauding)

- I'd like to make my wish publicly.

A long and happy life to all here.

(crowd applauding)

- Anybody who wants a piece of cake

can come up and get it.

And now boys and girls we're
gonna do the cha cha cha!

(cha cha music)

- Isn't it terrific?

- Everybody seems very friendly.

- I told you.

- Hi babe.

- Where you been I was starting to worry.

- My wife started in again on me as usual.

I almost didn't get here.

- I'd like you to meet my
friend Bea this is Johnny.

- Hi.

- How do you do?

- Come on will you let's dance.

I gotta calm down.

I'm with somebody Johnny.

- That's all right you go ahead I'm fine.

- Johnny will find you
someone to dance with

won't you Johnny?

- Please don't worry about me.

- Johnny knows all the men here.

I'm sure he can find you a partner.

- Okay.

Okay I'll be right back.

- You go ahead and dance.

I'm all right.

- When I go someplace with somebody

I don't desert that person.

- Well cha cha cha is not my kind of dance.

- Relax and finish your drink.

Oh Johnny's got you Harry Holland.

He's a terrific dancer for his age.

- Harry Holland?

- Harry this is

- Bea.

- How do you do?

- Enchanted.

- Harry you're a riot.

- Come on let's dance.

- Shall we?

- Oh I.

I'm sorry.

I think I've had enough.

- What?

- I have a headache.

- Oh I'm sorry.

Something wrong with my dancing?

- Oh no no you're terrific.

It's me you're too good for me.

But thank you very much.

(crowd applauding)

- Oh yes we got some good dancers tonight.

Now here she is Milton Martha Totin.

Martha.

(crowd applauding)

(light music)

♪ Call me a fool ♪

♪ Call me a babe in arms ♪

♪ Call me a fool ♪

♪ Who fell for all your charms ♪

♪ Am I a fool ♪

♪ To want you night and day ♪

♪ And to need you every
moment you're away ♪

♪ Just call me mad ♪

♪ Yes mad for you am I ♪

♪ But if I'm mad ♪

♪ Then love's the reason why ♪

♪ As long as you're the only one ♪

♪ This crazy heart of mine adores ♪

♪ Call me a fool ♪

♪ But call me yours ♪

(crowd applauding)

- Another Manhattan?

- Oh yes thank you.

- Coming up.

- Hi.

- Oh.

- Would you like to dance?

- No thank you.

- Been watching you
ever since you walked in

I'd really love to dance with you.

- I have a headache.

- Oh.

Maybe some other time huh?

- Maybe.

- Poor AI.

- I beg your pardon?

- Alvin Green.

Comes to the Stardust
three or four times a week

and hardly ever dances.

I'm Pauline Krimm who are you?

- Bea Asher.

- First timer?

- Uh huh.

- Terrific.

On behalf of everyone here I welcome you.

- Thank you.

- Oh believe me Bea there's
no place like the Stardust.

It's a place to live it up

let yourself go have a wonderful time.

You know I'm around all the time

so if you have any questions or problems

just come to me.

I have all the answers.

- Thank you I will.

- And for heaven's sakes find
yourself a partner and dance.

Dance.

(crowd applauding)

(upbeat music)

(crowd applauding)

(light music)

- How's your headache?

- Oh much better.

- That's good.

(light music)

(slightly upbeat music)

(light percussive music)

(crowd applauding)

(coins clanking)

Cha-cha-cha?

- Oh so good to sit down.

- Ah what your feet hurt?

- Oh they are numb.

- I'm used to being on my feet a lot.

I'm a mailman.

- Mailman?

- Are you surprised?

- I wouldn't have guessed
you were a mailman.

- That's because a mailman
isn't what I really am.

It's what I do it's not what I am.

Inside of here I'm a lot more.

- Boy I feel terrible taking
you out of your way like this.

- I don't mind don't worry about it.

I can get the subway in your neighborhood

and be home in no time.

You really are some dancer.

- I haven't danced in years and years.

- The way you were dancing tonight

you'd think you danced
every day of your life.

- That's because you're such a good leader.

- You think you'd be coming
back to the Stardust?

- I don't know I'm not
used to going out nights.

- Sure hope you do.

Not too many women can
follow me the way you can.

- I really had a very nice time.

I live right here you
don't have to see me home.

- Are you kidding?

You think I'm gonna let you walk home

by yourself this time of night?

- What could happen to me?

- Hey you never know.

- You must have to get up very early.

- I don't require much sleep.

- I really had a very nice time.

- The pleasure was all mine believe me.

(coughing)

Hey you have a cold?

- No no.

No I'm fine.

Well I'm home.

- Hey Bea uh.

Would you like to give
me your phone number?

- What for?

- Well I thought maybe

I'd call you up sometime.

Take you out to a movie
or Stardust or something?

- I'm not a swinger.

- We're friends Bea all I'm
talking about is friendship.

- I'm in the book under Maurice Asher.

- Maurice Asher?

Fine.

- Thank you.

Good night.

- Night.

- Cha cha cha.

(buzzer buzzing)

Who is it?

- [Helen] It's me.

- Helen!

What are you doing here
this time of the night?

- Where have you been?

- What?

- I've been calling you
and calling you all night.

I've been worried sick.

- I was out for the evening.

- I was out for the evening.

Why didn't you tell a person

that you were going out for the evening

so the person wouldn't
worry himself sick over you?

I'm your sister Bea.

- I'm a big girl now Helen.

- My words exactly.

- Quiet.

Where were you Bea?

Once and for all where were you?

- I went dancing.

- Dancing?

- [Bea] The Stardust Ballroom.

- Dancing?

- So what's wrong with dancing?

- Your poor daughter is
half dead with worry.

- Diane?

- Diane yes.

You have another daughter?

When I couldn't reach you all night

I called her I figured maybe
she knew where you were.

Oh I better call her and
tell her you're all right.

We were sure you were in
some alleyway unconscious.

If Jack didn't stop me I
would have called the police.

- Since when do I have
to report to you or Diane

when I go out for the evening?

- Diane she's home.

Uh she was out dancing.

Dancing right.

I know.

Absolutely.

All right.

Darling stop crying get some sleep.

I don't think it'll happen again.

Ugh.

So?

- Go home Helen.

- What?

- Go home please.

- I'm shocked at you Bea.

- [Jack] Come on Helen.

- I expect an apology from you.

- I said come on Helen.

Good night Bea.

- Who gave you permission?

Who gave you the right?

♪ No more interfering beginning tonight ♪

♪ I'm declaring my independence ♪

♪ May I say it's long overdue ♪

♪ I'll go and do whatever I please ♪

♪ I don't have to check in with you ♪

(light music)

♪ It's none of your business ♪

♪ A baby I'm not ♪

♪ I like to go dancing ♪

♪ I'm dancing so what ♪

♪ All my life I thought of the children ♪

♪ What was best for them and my husband ♪

♪ Years of being wanted and needed ♪

♪ Now they're gone but life isn't over ♪

♪ I don't care if you understand it ♪

♪ Now it's time for me to come first ♪

♪ Believe me ♪

♪ I know you love me ♪

♪ And I know you'd like
to help me somehow ♪

♪ But if ever there was a
time you shouldn't worry ♪

♪ It's now ♪

(upbeat music)

♪ To say a goose is cooked
before it's bubbling in the pot ♪

♪ To say a duck is dead
until the duck is shot ♪

♪ To say the butler did it ♪

♪ Until you know the plot is a mistake ♪

♪ A big mistake ♪

♪ To think the ballgame's over ♪

♪ Till the final out is made ♪

♪ Or the poker hand's a loser ♪

♪ Till the last card's played ♪

♪ To ever think you know all the answers ♪

♪ I'm afraid is a mistake ♪

♪ A big mistake ♪

♪ Go figure out the future ♪

♪ Go know about such things ♪

♪ How can you tell someone's at the door ♪

♪ Until the doorbell rings ♪

♪ To think that you can plan your life ♪

♪ As if you had a say ♪

♪ To put off till tomorrow ♪

♪ What you ought to do today ♪

♪ To not enjoy September ♪

♪ 'Cause you're wishing it were May ♪

♪ Is a mistake ♪

♪ A big mistake ♪

(upbeat ballroom music)

(light airy music)

(sighing)

- Thank you I had a very good time.

- Aren't you ever gonna invite me in?

- Well we both have to get
up early and go to work.

- I don't want the night to end yet.

Now I bet you make a
fantastic cup of coffee.

- As a matter of fact I make
a terrific cup of coffee.

- Good.

- This is the living room.

- This is a big house for a single woman.

- Oh I know but oh it's
been my home for so long.

So many memories I don't
want to give it up.

- Must be a nice feeling.

- These are my grandchildren.

- They're beautiful.

- I'll make us some coffee.

- We make a great team huh Bea?

You know something?

I'm a different person since I met you.

Actually you know I'm a

eh I'm not sure I can express it right.

- [Bea] It's just as well
you're embarrassing me anyway.

- My glass shall not persuade me I am old

so long as youth and thou are of one date.

- [Bea] What?

- Oh that's a sonnet by Shakespeare.

There's another one.

Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?

Thou art more lovely and more temperate.

- [Bea] Okay enough.

- You know I love your house.

- [Bea] What?

- I love your house.

- [Bea] It's a house.

- Oh no no.

Something special you believe me.

(light music)

(melancholy music)

♪ Walking through the years like I have ♪

♪ In between the tears like I have ♪

♪ Watching all the days go by ♪

- Oh would you like some coffee cake?

I have some in the refrigerator.

- Don't bother.

- It's no bother.

♪ Never set the sights I should have ♪

♪ Never reached the heights I could have ♪

♪ Never even wondered why ♪

♪ Roads never traveled ♪

♪ The world's unexplored ♪

♪ The dreams left unraveled ♪

♪ Suddenly I find ♪

♪ They're not all behind me ♪

- [Bea] I'm heating it up okay?

- What?

- The coffee cake it's
better when it's warm.

♪ Suddenly the days have meaning ♪

♪ Suddenly the leaves are greening ♪

♪ Just when I was sure ♪

♪ Spring was through ♪

♪ Suddenly there's life ♪

♪ Suddenly there's love ♪

♪ Smiling in my arms ♪

♪ Suddenly there's you ♪

- Ah.

How do you take your coffee?

- Black.

It's the only way for a true coffee lover.

- Unless you're on a diet like me.

- A diet?

You what are you on a diet for?

- Oh that's a good one.

- Oh no no you have a terrific build.

- They're like pears.

- No now really.

- Now you drink your coffee and go home.

I have to go to sleep.

- Let me stay for a while please.

- No it's late.

- I would never want to offend you.

- Who's offended?

I'm flattered it's just that
I'm not ready for that yet.

It's late.

- Can I kiss you goodnight?

- You just did.

- Another one please?

- If it makes you happy.

(shattering)

(bell ringing)

- Why are you still open?

- Diane.

- You close early on Saturday.

- What are you doing here?

- Well Louis was exhausted so

I came to pick you up.

- But I told you on the phone

I'm not coming out this weekend.

What's the matter?

- What have you done to yourself?

- Oh my hair.

- Your hair your face everything.

Ma you look ridiculous.

- Ridiculous?

- Have you lost your mind?

- I dyed my hair and put
on some makeup that's all.

- That's all?

For heaven's sake Ma you're a grandmother.

- [Bea] So?

- You look like some kind of a

- Never mind.

- What's got into you?

- I like the way I look.

I never felt better in my life.

Nobody asked your opinion.

- Ma Ma listen.

- You always talk too much Diane.

- Look Ma I drive all the
way in from Long Island

to pick up my mother.

I walk in here totally
unprepared for the sight I see.

How do you expect me to react?

- If you don't like what you see

I expect you to keep quiet about it.

I have feelings even if
I am only your mother.

- Alright.

Alright I won't say another word about it.

But don't blame me if Louis and the girls

are shocked when they see you.

- They're not gonna see me tonight

so you have nothing to worry about.

- What do you mean?

- I told you I have other
plans for the weekend.

- You mean you were serious?

- Of course I was serious.

- Ma you've always come for the weekend.

I mean the girls are expecting you.

- I have a date.

- A date?

- Yes with someone who
appreciates the way I look.

- You just lost your husband Ma.

- That was 13 months ago.

- I don't even know you Ma.

- Maybe not.

- Can you break your date?

- I don't want to.

- Well that is just lovely mother.

- Diane!

- What?

- You didn't kiss me hello or goodbye.

Come here and give your mother a kiss.

- I'm just furious with you.

- Come here to me I said.

Oh Diane.

Something wonderful is happening for me.

I feel alive again don't
hold it against me.

- Ma the kids.

- They'll understand if you
explain it to them properly.

And don't tell them I look ridiculous.

Tell them I look like a movie star.

'Cause that's the way I feel.

- Bea tell me that god's honest

is this dress too short for me?

- Oh it's terrific.

- You sure I'm not too old to wear it?

- If I had your figure even I'd wear

a dress that short.

- You're a doll.

- Bea have you seen Petey?

- He's not in here.

- Oh where the hell is he?

We have to get ready for the peabody.

- Does anybody have any green eyeshadow?

- Yeah I have some.

- Uh can I borrow it?

Thanks.

- Bea how do you like my new outfit?

- Oh oh it's terrific.

- Took me two hours to get dressed tonight.

(light music)

- Sorry.

- Oh no no.

(drum rolling)

- Boys and girls the
winners of the Three Passes

to The Stardust are first place

Petey and Martha.

(crowd applauding)

Second place Dean and Marie.

(crowd applauding)

And third place Bea and AI.

(crowd applauding)

- Ooh wow.

- Well I've never won anything before.

I can't help it.

(light whimsical music)

If we had but world enough and time

this coiness lady were no crime.

- What is that?

- It's a poem.

You made this with your own hands huh?

- Mhmm.

I quilted it.

- I can't get over it.

- It's very easy.

- I wish I had some special talents.

- You have.

You're a wonderful dancer.

That's a talent.

- Yeah I guess so.

- It is.

- Did you ever go to college Bea?

- No.

- Me neither.

It's one of the biggest regrets of my life.

I dropped out of high
school to join the army.

- You were in the army?

- World War II.

You're looking at a war hero.

(sighing)

When I got back from overseas
I made a lot of mistakes.

- Oh I bet I bet you look
terrific in a uniform.

- Well I didn't look bad.

Someday I'll bring over
some pictures and show you.

- Where are you going?

- Home.

- You're welcome to stay the night.

- I'm married Bea.

- I don't wanna talk about it.

Ever.

Gin.

- Gin?

- That's what it's called.

- You're slaughtering me.

- I used to beat Maury all the time.

He was a worse player than you.

- I'm a bad player huh?

- Terrible.

- Come over here.

- Let's play again.

- I don't like to lose.

Come over here.

This is fantastic.

- I haven't cooked or baked for anybody

since Maury died.

- What a waste of talent.

- It's here.

- Oh you go ahead I'll
wait for you here okay?

- All right.

He's a good man Maury.

You'd like him.

I'm all right now my darling.

- Dear Grandma Bea Leslie
and me are very sad

but we're not mad to see you go.

We'll miss you so we hope
your stay out in I.A.

is lots of fun.

Please come back soon.

(everybody clapping)

- Well it certainly is
nice to meet you Mr. Green.

- Same here.

- Louis and I are always so happy

to meet a friend of my mother's.

- Well I'm happy to know you too.

And your cooking it is delicious.

- Better than mine?

- Oh well.

- I learned everything about my cooking

from my mother Mr. Green

so you don't have to worry
about hurting my feelings.

- You can call me AI.

- Ma tells us you're a postal employee AI.

- I'm a mailman yes.

- That reminds me your
ticket's in my jacket.

I'll be right back.

- How I wish you'd let us go to the airport

with you Ma.

We were really looking forward to it.

- No.

I'd rather you didn't.

I'm nervous enough as it is.

- You know she didn't even
want me to go with her.

But I wouldn't take no for an answer.

- I bet Jennifer and
David are really thrilled

that you're coming.

- I hope so I don't fly for anybody

except my children.

- And flying is terrific
you're gonna love it.

- We're gonna miss you Ma.

Aren't we girls?

- It's only a week.

- Here now remember to sit
in the back of the plane.

- Why?

- Well statistics proves
that's the safest place to be.

- Oh Louis please don't make her nervous.

- It's a fact Diane.

- Are you gonna marry Grandma Mr. Green?

- Terry.

- Mr. Green is married darling.

- Oh here Bea I got you some dramamine.

You take them as soon
as you get on the plane

as soon as you get nauseous huh.

And I'll walk with you to the gate.

You have a wonderful time huh?

- If I ever get there.

- Oh you will.

And come back safe to me next week.

I'll miss you.

- I'll miss you too.

Don't come any further.

I wanna go quickly.

(light music)

(mumbling) Oh the stewardesses were great

the food was terrific
I couldn't get over it.

I had a great time.

I said to myself why
you so scared of flying?

It's not such a bad way to die.

- Oh let me take this.

- Ma I can't get over
how different you look.

- Good or bad?

- Different.

- Sensational come on Bea.

How do you like the house Bea?

- Oh.

It's gorgeous.

- Wait till you see the inside Ma.

- Here we are.

Living room.

- Oh!

Oh it's gorgeous.

- Make yourself at home Ma.

Put this away and then I'll cook dinner.

- Cook since when do you cook?

- Listen you'll be
surprised at what I can do.

Wait till you taste my burritos.

- What's a burrito?

- It's a California blintz.

- Come on I'll show you the den.

Let me take your coat.

- He's not a bad husband my son is he?

- No.

And I have a feeling he's gonna make

a pretty good father too.

- You mean that?

Oh!

Oh this is the happiest day of my life!

Ah.

Oh it was a wonderful meal.

In a wonderful house
and a wonderful couple.

Who could ask for anything more?

- Uh may I be excused?

- Morning sickness?

- Mhmm.

- Morning sickness it's night time.

- Jennifer has it screwed up.

She has morning sickness

in the morning and at night.

How are you mom?

- I'm so happy.

His name is AI Green he's a mailman.

- Mailman huh I bet he
likes to play post office.

- Oh David.

- I know it's a good joke.

- At first he was my dancing partner

he's a wonderful dancer.

And then

- And then you found out
dancing wasn't his only talent.

- David you're embarrassing me.

- You gonna marry him Ma?

- No I'm not gonna get married yet.

He's married.

- Well.

- Are you shocked?

- No.

- Diane was very shocked.

And I'm sorry but it's just

everything is so terrific now

and he's considerate and affectionate

and he has a wonderful sense of humor.

Oh David your mother's finding out

so many wonderful things in her old age.

- That's great Ma.

(melancholy music)

♪ Walking through the years ♪

♪ Like I have ♪

♪ In between the tears ♪

♪ Like I have ♪

♪ Watching all the days ♪

♪ Go by ♪

(gentle music)

- Wanna take the plane to Catalina Ma?

- Yeah cattle it's right over there.

Bea you okay?

(dramatic music)

(birds squawking)

- Well we'll go to Disneyland
and Knotsbury Farm.

Maybe the day after that
we'll go to Marine Land huh?

♪ Never set the sights I should have ♪

♪ Never reach the heights I could have ♪

♪ Never even wondered why ♪

- Ma?

What's wrong?

It's after three.

- David I wanna go home.

- Home? You just got here.

- I know but I'm homesick.

I'm sorry.

- Tomorrow morning soon enough?

- Thank you.

(bright music)

Then they took me to a colony where

a lot of famous movie stars live.

And I saw the Queen Mary at Long Beach

and we went to a place called Port of Call.

It was very nice but I
was so glad to come home.

- How come you're so wide awake?

It's after one.

- I'm on Los Angeles time.

It's three hours early.

Why are you tired?

- Me no I feel fine.

- Good 'cause I wanna
know everything you did

while I was away.

- You were only gone a couple of days.

- I know it feels like two months.

What'd you do?

- Well let's see.

During the day I worked of course.

And then first night I went to the movies.

- By yourself?

- No I picked up this
terrific looking blonde

at the ticket booth.

- Really?

- (laughing) No.

- What'd you see?

- You know I don't know.

I fell asleep to the double feature.

- What'd you do the next day?

- Oh then I went to the ballroom

but I didn't dance.

- Why not?

- I couldn't find anyone to dance with.

- Oh.

There are a lot of good dancers there.

- But no Bea.

- That's what I wanted to hear.

- Yeah I figured.

- I missed you.

- The feeling is mutual believe me.

Oh by the way you've been nominated.

- Nominated for what?

- Queen of the Stardust
Ball Saturday night.

About 20 people nominated you.

- What do I have to do?

- Well sing and dance

twirl a baton anything you want.

- Perform?

- [AI] Uh-huh.

- Slap boom.

Step.

(laughing) Oh come on.

Come on more foot.

Step.

- No no I'll never get it.

- Oh come on.

- No no I'm out of breath.

- Oh no come on please.

Just once come on.

Come on honey please one more.

I don't wanna make a fool of myself.

- Do you think I care
whether you win that contest?

- I care.

Now come on.

- As far as I'm concerned

you're the queen whether you win it or not.

- All right one more time.

You ready?

- Yeah.

- Okay from the top.

All right everybody Bea it out!

(upbeat music)

♪ I love to dance like they used to dance ♪

♪ When you held a girl in your arms ♪

♪ No hide and seek ♪

♪ Just cheek to cheek ♪

♪ No fun in doing a single ♪

♪ When there's no touch there's no tingle ♪

♪ I love to travel across the floor ♪

♪ Holding something more than just air ♪

♪ Come and dance with me ♪

♪ You and I can be Ginger Rogers ♪

♪ And Fred Astaire ♪

♪ Tell the band to blow ♪

♪ Every tune they know ♪

♪ And throw in a tango or two ♪

♪ Oh how I love to dance ♪

♪ Like they used to dance ♪

♪ When the girl in my arms ♪

♪ Is you ♪

♪ I love to dance like they used to dance ♪

♪ When you held a man in your arms ♪

♪ Every girl needs ♪

♪ Someone who leads ♪

♪ These days it's tough to tell ♪

♪ Whether they're even dancing together ♪

♪ Whenever I hear the music start ♪

♪ Baby you're the partner I choose ♪

♪ You were born to be ♪

♪ Cheek to cheek with me ♪

♪ Arthur Murray can shine your shoes ♪

♪ Round and round we go ♪

♪ Is there ground below ♪

♪ This feeling's too good to be true ♪

♪ How I love to dance ♪

♪ Like they used to dance ♪

♪ When the man in my arms ♪

(energetic music)

♪ How I love to dance how I love to dance ♪

♪ Like they used to dance
like they used to dance ♪

♪ When the man in my arms ♪

♪ Is you ♪

(crowd applauding)

(drum rolling)

- Ladies and gentlemen of Stardust

it gives me the greatest
pleasure to announce

that this year's Queen is none other

than Bea Asher!

(crowd applauding)

Bea come on up and get your crown!

(crowd applauding)

Bea!

- Oh my.

- All right everybody.

Just be quiet and let your new queen

say a few words.

- Oh what can I say?

I never expected this great honor.

I'm the happiest woman
in the world tonight.

Thanks to all of you.

(crowd applauding)

(light music)

(laughing)

- What a night (mumbling)

- Oh I don't know.

(humming)

Oh what a night.

What a night.

- Yeah yeah.

- I'm exhausted.

- Oh I know what you mean I'm tired too.

Ah tell you what.

I'm gonna go home.

And I'm gonna come back bright
and early tomorrow morning

and I'll bring some rolls

and we'll have Sunday brunch together okay?

- Okay.

- You know it was the
best night of my life.

- Mine too.

- They couldn't have picked a better queen.

- Thank you.

- Good night your majesty.

- Good night AI.

(car zooming)

(light whimsical music)

(kids chattering in background)

(buzzer buzzing)

- Bea?

Hey Bea?

Bea?

(knocking)

Hey Bea.

Hey Bea?

Wake up.

Hey Bea?

Bea?

Please wake up.

Bea?

Bea.

(light music)

(bright music)