Spirit of the Game (2016) - full transcript

[phone rings]

Hello, Delyle Condie speaking.

[laughs] Basketball star.

It's a long time since
I've been called that.

Yeah.

Ken Watson?

Oh, I'm so sorry to hear that.

He was a good man.

Yes, well thanks for
letting me know.

I'll keep you in my prayers.

Goodbye.



[hangs up phone]

[uplifting music]

[crowd cheering on T.V.]

[music ends]

[indiscernible dialogue]

[both laugh]

Every time!

One of these days,
you'll catch on.

I hope not.

Emily, will you marry me?

I was going to get a ring first
and plan it all out, but -

Yes! Yes, yes, yes, yes.

[both laugh]

Oh, shoot. I should have
asked your dad first.



What can he say?

[Emily laughs]

-Hi dad!
-Hi son.

Bye son.

Oh yeah, I'm getting married.

That's nice, son.

Hi mom.

You look happy.

-Must have been a good movie?
-Mm.

We saw Lady and the
Tramp at the Grand.

And I don't know
what it was but...

something about that movie
made me realise that...

Emily's... well... you know...
her and I... we just, we just...

Oh, dang it, I just
proposed to her!

Oh! [both laugh]

What did she say? Did she
say yes? How did you propose?

Wait you don't have a ring yet?
Do you have a ring yet?

Oh, was she excited?

Oh, Delyle, this is so exciting!

Mom, take a breath, OK?

I don't have a ring yet.

But she said yes.

Congratulations. Frank obviously
gave you his blessing?

Well, I haven't had the chance
to ask him yet, Dad.

I wanted to talk to you all
before I did anything,

but it just sort of popped out.

That's just you being you.

You have a great big
loving Condie heart.

Could that be a problem, Dad?

Knowing Frank, I doubt it.

But I would take care of
that first thing tomorrow.

Well we need to get you a ring.

Tomorrow we'll
drive to Molinelli's

at Pocotello and go shopping.

Oh my, there is so much to
organise, I need to make a list.

So many people to invite.
All the Wilsons, the Hamiltons.

Oh dear, we can't forget
the McQueens...

Now look what you've done.
Congratulations son.

Come here.

[traditional jazz music]

Kids have all gone
to bed mother.

Time for you as well.

I'm down to the last dozen.

Oh, they can wait
till tomorrow.

May I have this dance?

[laughs]

[giggles]

[indiscernible soft chatter]

[music plays on Delyle's radio]

[gentle knock at the door]

Hey Emily.
What are you doing here?

I needed to see you.

Sure. Let's go outside though,
before someone sees you.

I have to go to
California to help

my sister Jodi
with her children.

Is everything all right?

It's just hard for her
with Jeff being away.

Do you need me to drive you?

No, thank you. I'll catch
the Hound in the morning.

Is there anything I can do?

You're sweet, but no I should
only be gone a few weeks,

I want to see you
in the playoffs.

I know you'll be great.

This is all I have but
I want you to take it.

I have enough, thank you.

I should go pack and you have
to go back to your studies.

Call me when you get there.

I will.

I love you Em.

And your shot from the top of
the key, it was amazing!

-Great game tonight, son.
-Dad!

You should have told
me you were in town,

I would have got you tickets.

I was in town on business,
I just wanted to surprise you.

Well, you did.
It's great to see you.

Have you eaten?
Want to get something?

-I would love that.
-OK, let's go.

Lyman's discharged from
the Navy next week.

You think you can make
it back for his homecoming?

We're on the road in
Arizona next week,

but I could drive up as soon
as we get back in town.

He'll be happy to see you
whenever you can get there.

They all will.

How is everyone?

Well, your mother misses
you, of course.

There's no one to cook
for or fuss over.

Have you heard from Emily?
When's she back?

Well, she's busy with
her sister's kids.

Should be back in
a week, I guess.

Oh.

Oh, and I forgot to mention.

Deverl Herzog had his
mission farewell last week.

He's leaving for
South Texas tomorrow.

-I got a letter from him last
week. -Mm.

Yeah, he's going to make
a great missionary.

You're doing what you love son,

and that's good too.

Your brothers would be proud.

All of them.

I know, Dad. Thanks.

Yeah.

How you kids listen to that
music I'll never know.

It's just yelling syllables.

You're showing your
age now, Pop.

Yeah, well, maybe I am.

You make sure you get
home to see your brother,

first chance you get.
He's been gone a long time.

I will dad.

See you on home plate.

Bottom of the ninth.

It's a big game OK, let's just
have some fun.

And you try and remember to
actually put some in the ring.

[all laugh]

Like last time, the best
shooter in the team.

Get out of here.
Give me that!

I always show you how it's done.

You made it!

Delyle... I need to
speak with you.

I can't now, I'll see
you after the game.

We'll go somewhere
and celebrate.

I can't marry you, Delyle.

What? Emily, I'll see you after
the game. We can talk then.

There's nothing to talk about.
I just can't marry you.

But... why?

-Here we go honey.
-Oh, thank you dear.

There must be something
we can do for him.

Mother, we can't fight
their battles for them.

All we can do is love
and support them.

But look at him. He's lost.
I'm worried for him.

All right. I'll talk to him.

OK.

Son.

Take a break, your mother
brought some lemonaide.

Training camp starts in
a couple of weeks.

So what are you
planning on doing?

Because you've been moping
around here like a lame steer,

and I think an
apology is in order.

I'm sorry, dad.

Not me, the backboard.

[scoffs]

I should have gone
to California with her.

I was so stupid to let
her go on her own.

Did you ever stop and think
that it wasn't meant to be?

You did everything right, son.
But it's God's will, it's not
yours.

It won't be the last time that
a girl does your head in.

It's not like that
with you and Mom.

[laughs]

We've had our moments, we just
don't do it in front of you.

I'd be a weak man if I let
anger control my emotions.

I just...

I thought she was the one.

H'm.

I know the experts say that you
can't truly know love

until you've had
your heart broken.

Did you ever get yours broken?

No.
[laughs]

And there hasn't been a
day that I haven't loved

your mother with all my heart.

So what do the experts know?
Right?

Ex means old, and spurt is a

[together]
...drip of water.

You can, however, use what
you're feeling inside

to help make you
a better person.

Son...the decisions you make
now will determine the rest

of your life. So choose
things that help you grow.

I know you are going to
choose the right path.

Hey.

I want those boys doing fast
breaks all the way down the
line.

[knock on the door]

Delyle, come on in.

Could I please speak
to you, Coach?

You're cutting it pretty fine
son, you almost missed the bus.

I'm not getting on the bus.

Snowy, would you give us a
moment please?

I've decided I'm going to...
I'm going to serve a mission.

Why would you want to do that?

It's the right time in my life.

If I don't go now,
I'll probably never go. So...

I heard about your fiancé, son.

And I have to tell
you from experience,

that you can't make
decisions like this

when your brain is all messed
up because of a girl.

I want you to think
carefully about this.

We're creating a legacy that
will be the envy of other
schools.

If you leave now, you're
going to miss it.

No, it's not a decision
I've come to easily.

It's been on my
mind a lot lately,

and I need to go and serve.
It's the right thing to do.

You can convince yourself that
almost anything is the

the right thing' to do.

Playing basketball
can be the right thing.

This team's capable of anything.

You're capable of anything.

But I'm telling you now, if you
leave now to serve on a mission,

This... all this is gone...

and I don't think you'll ever
play basketball again.

I'm sorry, Coach.
My mind is made up.

Condie.

Good luck son.

[uplifting music]

This is heavy.

Bye brother.
Don't forget Ted.

-Really?
[both laugh]

Oh, you.

Write to me every week, OK?

Let me know if you
need some food.

Goodness knows what
they eat down there.

Boil the water before you drink
it and don't go to the outback!

[sighs] God be with you
till we meet again.

Bye.

I guess this is it, Dad.
It's really happening.

It's an honour and a privilege
to have you as my son.

I'll see you on home plate.

Bottom of the ninth.

Yeah.

[ship horn bellows]

[seagulls screech]

Hi! You must be Condie?
I've been waiting for you.

-I'm Elder Groberg.
-Pleased to meet you.

Good times, huh?
Grab your stuff, let's go.

So, are you heading
to Australia too?

-No, I'm getting off at Tonga.
-Tonga? Sounds like heaven.

[uplifting music]

[woman]Are you getting on?
Excuse me sir.

[man]Come on man, on you go!

How are you today sir?

[woman in car]
Bonjour Bruno, welcome!

[ship horn bellows]

[car horn toots]

Elder Condie?
Welcome to Melbourne.

I'm Elder Johnson,
Brother Jones is driving.

-Welcome sir.
-This is Elder Christensen.

Good to meet you.

And that gentleman is your
companion, Elder Morton.

How was the journey?

Well, I fed most of the
fish in the Pacific,

but other than that it was OK.

I'm keen to get to
the mission home,

have a shower and get settled.

Oh you will, but first we're
going to make a detour.

We've got a game on.

Of course you've
just arrived, so,

why take you straight
to the mission home?

Let's go play a game instead.

-A game?
-Basketball.

You're playing basketball?
On your mission?

Yeah! Australia is not like
anywhere else on this planet.

You're not in Idaho
anymore, Toto.

Thank you. So...
are you Australian?

Excuse me? I'm British!

-From Britain?
-I speak the Queen's English.

Not the gibberish they call
language here.

Don't confuse me with these
barbarians again.

-Well...
-I'm kidding. It's a joke.

Well, not about the barbarians
though. That bit's true.

Condie, we're a man short.
We're gonna need you to play.

I don't have any gear.

What you're wearing will do.

[indiscernible banter]

Right, here we go boys!

[the men call to each other]

Great work boys.
Nice work boys.

-Yeah!
-Great game.

Good job guy.

Well played Condie,
well played.

You played a good
game tonight, Jim.

More Americans? G'Day, I'm
Elspeth this is my husband Jim.

-What are you doing?
-Just saying hi. Sorry!

You get use to it.

President Bingham's
expecting us.

Any advice before I meet him?

-He's not too bad really.
-[laughs] OK.

[knock at the door]
-Come in!

Elder Condie, welcome
to the mission.

-Thank you sir.
-So, how was the game tonight?

Well, we won sir.

I understand you played
in your regular attire?

Yes, sir...I didn't know I was
going to be playing basketball.

Well, it's a good thing you won
as I have to inform you that's

the last game you'll be
playing while you're here.

As of today I'm going to stop
all activities that don't

directly relate to our work.

We didn't come
here to play sport.

We have to get
our house in order

and that means not wasting time.

This is a very
difficult Mission,

as you'll come to understand.

You'll need to be
obedient and steadfast.

Find, teach, baptise.

Now, get some rest. Tomorrow
you hit the ground running.

[together]
Thank you sir.

[birds sing]

Welcome to the room Condie,
that's you just there.

Bathroom is just there.

That's it.

This is the most beautiful ring
I've ever seen.

I've already picked out our
first child's name.

-Just so you know.
-Oh, you have?

Yes... It will be a boy.

Noah Lethan Condie.

-A boy huh?
-Mm.

Great names, but do I get a say?

You can pick out
the girl's names.

OK... Well...

In that case...
I like... Jezebell.

I thought you were serious.

[both laugh]

I'm so happy right now.

Well! Look at you, all keen
and eager on your first day.

Well, I'm excited to get
out and meet some people.

Yeah, that'll wear
off soon enough.

What do you mean?

Eagerness is good, but you
gotta prepare yourself.

For what?

What? Never mind,
you'll find out soon enough.

Hello, I'm Elder Condie and...

Well, at least you
got to say hello.

Hello sir! We're missionaries
from the Church of Jesus--

[indiscernible conversation]

[boys laugh]

-You kids are--
-Stop.

[dog barks]

Is every day like today?

Not every day.
There are some good days.

When you find someone
who wants to listen,

it's like walking on air.

How do you handle it?
The rejection, I mean?

I leave in two weeks Condie.
I've learnt to get over it.

You have to. And you just
do what you have to.

Sometimes I say to myself,
Norman, why go through all this

for people who don't care.

Because it's why we're here.

You say that when we have
enough tomato seeds to

start a market garden.

-You're first name's Norman?
-Mm.

Norman the Mormon?

Oh... God sure blessed you!

Yes, He did!

Wow.

[crickets chirp]

[reflective music]

Dear Dad.

I've never taken anything for
granted or expected things

to be handed to me on a platter.

But boy, I could
sure use a break.

It seems every day is a test.

Great as Australian people are
they are steadfast and stubborn

Most have little or no time for
us and I fear my foot may soon

break from all the
doors slammed on it.

Hello, how are you?

Some days really get me down and

I'm worried too many more of
these might take a heavy toll.

Have I made a mistake, Dad?

I would have been
married by now.

Elder Morton goes home this week

so I'm getting a new
companion, too.

I miss you and Mom so much.

You ever heard of Vegemite?
Best to avoid it at all costs.

My Dear Son.

In our life are challenges.

They can make you grow
and bring you closer to God,

or you can let them destroy you.

The choice, as always, is yours.

You didn't think a mission
would be easy did you?

This is about your faith
as much as theirs.

Try to find common ground
with these people,

something that appeals to them.

You can be all things to all
people if you choose to be.

Your loving father.

This is our bungalow, Mrs Tonkin
is the landlady. She's sweet.

Is she Mormon?

No, her and her daughters
are Salvation Army.

Daughters, huh?

Obviously they don't do the
cleaning then?

Sorry about the mess.

You can have the bed over here
and hang your clothes in there.

Clearly, you miss your mom.

Morton was the cleaning
lady in this companionship.

So what's your story Elder?

My story?
Are you writing a book?

We all have one.

Why we're here, I mean.

I'm here to serve a mission.

I was just trying to get
to know my companion.

I didn't mean to be intrusive.

If you don't want to talk,
that's fine by me.

I'm sorry, I'm just tired.

I almost didn't come here.

I had no intention
to serve a mission.

But it didn't turn out that way.

I'm keen to get out and
meet the people tomorrow.

Oh, you will.
You like tomatoes?

I guess... why?

[both laugh]

You'll see.

Don't put your hands
or feet near the door

if you ever want
to use them again.

Hello. I'm Elder Condie
and this is Elder Hull.

We're missionaries...

and we'd like to share a
message with you.

You get away from her!

I know all about you Mormons.

You take young girls
away to marry them.

Well, you're not
taking my daughter!

Get off my property!

-Run! Run!
[dog barks]

[news announcer]
Melbourne at this moment

is in the throws of events
preparations for the

Olympic Games, which will
be the first to be held in the

Southern Hemisphere.
Six thousand athletes

from all around the world will
descend on our Nation

and construction is well
underway to house them just

outside town. For good will and
fair play it's going to be a red

letter day, not only for
Melbourne but for all Australia

when the Olympic fanfare rings
out and the Olympic flag

is hoisted at the stadium.

Hi Jim.

[indistinct chatter]

Stan... how are we going?

Have you seen the size of the
players on the other teams?

Look, obviously we can't
compete on height.

We just have to concentrate
on skills and tactics.

[player] Ah, come on!

It's our first Olympics.

We just have to train hard,
teach them what we can.

You never know.

Mate it'd take 20 years to whip
this lot into decent shape.

You just gotta have a little
faith my friend.

[both snicker]

[player]
Come on boys, come on!

I'm starving. What did Sister
Tonkin make for us today?

[retches]
Oh, vegemite!

I hate this stuff.
It's like eating axle grease.

It's probably all
she can afford.

Someone's got to say
something to her.

You can. I'd rather
suffer in silence.

I'm so hungry I could eat
a Vegemite sandwich.

I hate Vegemite, I hate flies,
and I hate rude people.

You hate a lot of things Condie.
I'm just happy to be here.

[ball bounces]

Hi there!

You play basketball?

Yeah. So?

Mind if we take a shot?

If you want.

Wow!

How did you...

-Hello again.
-Elspeth, wasn't it?

That's right!
We met at the basketball.

Right, Elder Condie.

We were just walking by and
saw your son shooting baskets.

-We didn't mean to intrude.
-Oh no, Brett's my brother.

This is Elder Hull.
This is Elspeth.

Her husband plays in the local
league, he's a good player.

Pleased to meet you, ma'am.

You should see this
guy shoot the ball!

He got it in from
way back here!

It's been hard on
him since Mum died.

Dad's a boozer,
so he's never around.

But we're better off
without him anyway.

What about you?
What are you blokes all about?

Well...

Oh, here's Jim now.

Jim! Come and meet the Elders.

I'm so sorry, I think that
he's had a hard day.

Hull, we best be going anyway.

When can you come back?
Tomorrow?

I'll see what I can do.

Thanks for the water.

Oh wait, should we go back
and give them a book.

I think we wore out
our welcome today.

I think we're going to
have to be realistic

and look at these Olympics
as gaining experience.

This isn't a training exercise
Stan it's the Olympic Games.

Got the whole nation looking
over our shoulders.

Mate, there just aren't enough
hours in the day to get them

to where they need to be.

Imagine if we had the college
system here, hey?

Imagine the players we'd have
then, the experience.

We can't replicate
that in six months!

Don't worry... with Rose
and Fraser in the pool,

I doubt anyone will
even know we're there.

You know If our boys could play
as well as you can swill beer,

we'd win a flamin' medal.

Yes, we would.

Hey, six o'clock swill.

I wanna get home before
Betty puts the kids to bed.

-I'll see you later. See you
Bill! -Seeya.

[both sigh]
-This is becoming pointless.

Come on Condie. Things will
turn around if we have faith.

Faith is something that is
so foreign to these people.

Can't they see that we're
just trying to help them?

You've only got 13 months left.

You just gotta
keep chipping away.

I don't want to
just chip away'.

I want to make a difference
in peoples lives.

I'm not giving up two years of
my life just to pass the time.

There has to be someone
here who wants to listen.

I'm not giving up
until I find them.

So let's just tract the rest of
this street and call it a day.

I'm beat anyways.

[birds chirp]

[knocks on door]
[dog barks]

[footsteps approach]

Good afternoon ma'am, I'm Elder
Condie and this is Elder Hull.

We're missionaries from the

Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter Day Saints.

If you have a spare moment,

we'd like to share an
important message with you.

Oh! Well you probably
want my husband.

He gets all the important
messages. Ken!

There's some young men
at the door with

an important message for you.

[shouts]
How important's the message?

Well, I don't know. They didn't
say what the message was.

Well, it couldn't be that
important. Did you ask them?

No! They've got something to
do with ladders and snakes.

What!

They're visionaries
or something.

They look very official.
They've got accents.

What can I do for you chaps?

We're from the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter Day Saints.

We'd like to share a
spiritual message with you.

Oh, right... we're pretty good
for spiritual messages today.

Thanks very much.

Thank you all the same sir.
Have a nice day.

No worries.

[whispers]
Were they the police?

-No, they weren't the police.
-Well I don't know!

Hey! Hang on fellows.

[clicks his fingers]
Are you chaps Mormons?

Yes, sir we are!

Didn't I see you
playing basketball?

Yes!

Ken Watson's my name.

-Elder Condie.
-Hello.

-Elder Hull.
-Why don't you come inside.

Thank you sir!

-It's a beautiful home.
-Thank you.

[quiet background chatter]

Stan!

Stan. I have solved
all our problems.

-You have?
-Mormons.

-Mormons?
-Mormon basketballers.

[both laugh]

-Beer mate?
-Ah... yes, yes alright.

-Yeah, two beers.
-Yeah.

-Hey?
[both laugh]

Oh, Mr Watson, this is
my wife, Sister Bingham.

-It's very nice to meet you.
-Please, have a seat.

Thank you.

Mr Watson, could I offer
you a refreshment.

A glass of water perhaps?

Oh a cup of tea would be lovely.

We don't have tea. I can
offer you milk or water.

Oh right. Ah, well, whatever
you have will be fine thank you.

Adele, would you fetch Mr Watson
and me a glass of water please?

Of course.

Mr Watson, on the telephone you
said that you needed our help.

Yes, yes I do.

I'm the coach of the
Australian basketball team,

as I'm sure you know,
the Olympics are coming.

Look, I'll be honest...
we're struggling.

And we could really appreciate

going up against some
players with experience.

-Thank you.
-Oh, thank you.

Otherwise we're
gonna get thrashed.

I'm sorry Mr Watson but we have
disbanded the basketball program

Yes, they're here to work,
not to play athletics.

Oh... Mr Bingham, President.

I don't know a great
deal about your church.

But I do know those
boys are some of the

finest examples of
basketballers in this country.

In Australia,
our religionis sport.

And if you want to
connect with Aussies,

well, then you do
it through sport.

Do you have children Mr Watson?

Yes, I do.

Well then you'll know you must

provide them with strict
rules and discipline.

These boys need to be
attentive and obedient

and not partake in, shall
we say, worldly activities.

Oh missus.

Basketball is a good wholesome
sport started by Christians.

But I can see you've
have made up your mind.

It's simply not why
they're here.

We could do great things.

To the church... for basketball.

I hope you'll think about it.

[sister Bingham scoffs]
-I'm sorry we can't help you.

-Well, thank you anyway.
-Thanks for coming.

-Good bye Mr Watson.
-Please.

Wouldn't have a bar of it.

I thought they
were here to teach?

Church stuff, not basketball.
He was adamant!

His wife even more so.
And do you know what?

They wouldn't even give
me a cuppa tea.

Well, if those Mormon boys
are anything like my kids...

they won't listen
to what they're told.

Ken... what President Bingham
doesn't know won't hurt him.

[Hull]
Now, do not let him through, OK?

Hang in there!
Get your hands in there!

Don't let him shoot!
Don't! Come on!

Thanks for letting
us come around.

I haven't seen him smile
that much in a long time.

It's good for him.

And because he's small for his
age, he has trouble fitting in.

Well, he sure does
love basketball.

Doesn't have much of a choice
with Jim playing all the time.

It's a good sport.

He sure does
idolise you blokes.

Mostly Hull. He's a swell kid.

Would you like
to stay for tea?

Yes! Thank you!

[all laugh]

Don't let him shoot again!

Ha! Oh, yeah!

-Ready? Ready?
-Oh, yeah!

Who's Stan Page?

-Stan, Stan!
-What?

-Hello!
-Fellas.

I'm Stan Page. I believe
you've already met Ken.

Thanks for coming.

We got your note.
How can we help you?

We were hoping to appeal to
your sensibilities as sportsmen.

Yes, this is our Olympic squad.

As you can see,
they're pretty raw.

We want you to work with
us on our skills and drills.

And I could certainly use some
help as far as coaching goes.

I'm sorry Coach but we're not
allowed to play basketball.

No well we thought you would
help us on your days off.

You know, sort of on the sly
if you know what I mean?

That's not possible sir.

[Stan]
Don't you miss it?

The thrill of the game
when the buzzer goes!

You have a chance to
help these boys with...

basketball!

I don't think you understand.

What you're asking would go
against everything we stand for.

Oh well, we didn't realise that!

Ah... sorry.

They could send us home.

Really?

Yes. I'm sorry sir.

-Well, that went well.
-Mm.

Can you believe them?
Asking us to be disobedient.

Yeah.

Wait, you're not
thinking about it?

No! No way, of course not.

But you've got to admit,
it's a great opportunity.

For what?

Think of the doors
this could open for us

Like with Brett and Elspeth.

The only reason we got invited
in was because of basketball.

This is different.

Yeah. Yeah it is this is bigger!

This is the Olympic team!

Imagine all the people
we could reach!

No more being hosed off lawns.
No more doors in the face.

Even if you're right,
President Bingham said no.

Find, teach, baptise
is what he said.

You're prodding at a
tiger in it's cage here.

We should be sharing our skills.

Basketball... it can break
down barriers for us!

I'm going to talk to
President Bingham

Are you crazy? We're being
disobedient just by being here.

Just relax, OK?

President Bingham's
really just a teddy bear.

Yeah but Sister Bingham's like a
dragon. She's really scary!

At the moment we're just
these strange Americans

who knock on people's doors.

But they love sport, and
they're crazy for the Olympics.

If we help them with this we
can break down so many barriers.

We'll be a part
of their community.

Elder Condie, your enthusiasm
is admirable, but misguided.

You need to re-channel all that
enthusiasm into missionary work.

I have been, President Bingham.

Every day we go out tracting

and I can tell you first hand
that getting our message across

is that much easier when
there's a point of connection.

Like basketball.

There's this young boy, Brett--

Elder Condie.

if you wanted to play
basketball so much

you should have
stayed in College.

We are not a basketball team,
I am not your coach.

I understand that, sir!

-But--
-No buts!

We have but one purpose
and one purpose only.

We cannot do our work if we
are distracted playing sports.

Gentlemen, let this be the last
time we talk of this matter.

Are you OK?

[sighs heavily]

[Hull snores]

[reflective music]

[sighs]

My son is an
intuitive young man.

And he feels that basketball
could be the means

to help them to connect
with the people.

And indeed ingratiate
themselves into the community.

Brethren. Elder Tanner passed
this onto me from his good

friend Brother Condie.

Missionary work is hard enough
without us making it harder.

We send our fine young men
out into the mission field.

And we have an
opportunity to assist them

to bring others into
the arms of the lord.

And that is exactly
what I intend to do.

Elder Condie, you must
have prayed very hard.

Salt Lake has proposed that we
put a basketball team together

in order to help
the Australians.

And I'm putting you
in charge of it.

We'll do whatever
you ask of us, sir.

I want to make it absolutely
clear from the outset,

that there will be
certain parameters.

Elders will not be distracted
from their missionary work.

You will be given one
day a week to practice.

I want you to work closely
together with Elder Burt

to hand pick the best team
from the Mission.

Don't let me down.

Johnson was at BYU.

Where's he serving
at the moment?

He's in Adelaide. But he
goes home in a few weeks.

Dang. West and
Grant were at the U.

Grant's in Tasmania.

Elder Garn was a starter
at Sugar City Idaho.

Oh, yeah, I remember playing
against him. That guy is fast.

Frodsham is a good all round
sportsman, he played at BYU.

He's tough as nails too.

Elder Hull, sit up straight!

That is not a footrest and this
is not a Chinese bath house!

Do up your tie!

[sighs] So, are you Elders
staying for dinner, then?

We hadn't planned to, so please
don't go to any trouble for us.

Well, I'm planning for
you and I already have.

So it's settled.

I still think all of
this is a silly idea,

but if President Mckay
thinks we should...

then I will support it.

Oh! And don't forget
Elder Kimball.

He was a star at
Provo High School.

Let me be quite clear.

You are first and
foremost missionaries.

You'll manage your time well,

but if you're work
should suffer...

then you will be relieved'
of this assignment.

Basketball doesn't convert
people to the Gospel.

So always remember who you
are and what you stand for.

Yes, sir.

When you guard me you want
to stand closer if you can.

Yeah and keep low... you'll
see which way I'm going to cut.

Yep.

Good, that's it, well done!

Halt! If you spread your hands
wider on the ball

-it's easier to control.
-I don't need any help from you!

OK.

-Hey, come on.
-Time out!

Let's just have a spell fellows.

Can you try to put into practice
what it is they're telling us.

They're here to help us!

-We don't need these guys!
-Yes, we do Jim.

We can't run to the Yanks every
time we need our necks saved.

It was bad enough
during the bloody war.

So, what can we do
to improve ourselves?

Playing basketball is one thing.

How you live your
life is another.

All I'm just saying to you guys,
if you're smoking and drinking,

you're crucifying your bodies
and wasting your life.

You don't see us running up
court gasping for air do you?

Hey! Go back and join your team.

I don't need sermons...

And I don't need them to
tell me how to live my life.

I think you do Jim, 'cause your
not doing a very good job of it.

Go back and join
your team... please.

I've seen you all doing the
shots, that's great, you've got
the

two handed set shot, but

we really want to start
focusing on the jump shot.

And, the point of the jump is
to shoot from a higher position

to make it more difficult
for the defender to block.

It also lowers the
angle of the basket.

So, let's try some!

[player]
Let's do it, come on boys!

[radio announcer]
Now we're privileged to have

in the studio, members of the
Mormon Yankees basketball team.

[Elder Condie]
We sure appreciate you taking

-the time to talk to us.
-Listen! It's the Elders!

-I hear you and your team...
-That's Elder Condie!

-...played the state team...
-I just love their accents.

-...yes sir, that's correct!

Oi! We're listening to that!

I've heard some bad things
about these Mormons.

They sacrifice live goats and
try to trap you into their cult.

They don't do that, Jim!
They're very nice people.

Well, I'll have nothing
to do with em,

and neither will you if you
want to stay married to me.

And no more going to their
Church, it's a waste of time.

Stop being a drongo
and fix the car.

Shhh, I can't hear.

Well, we wish you and your team
the best for the coming game.

And now, a word
from our sponsor.

[crickets chirp]
[cow bellows]

So the State team invite us to
play in a city two hours away,

and we have to hitch hike
while the others drive?

How did we draw
the short straw?

Think of it as a way
to meet people.

Hey! It says here the discovery
of gold in Bendigo

during the 1850's made it one of
the most significant Victorian

boom towns in Australia.

Hey, we might find a nugget!

I need to find a bathroom.

And get bit on the
butt by a snake?

I'll hold.

I think we should split up.

be a lot easier to pick
up two than four.

Good idea. We'll run ahead and

if you get a ride, have
them pick us up.

Something on your mind?

How can you keep
pushing all the time?

Doesn't this ever get to you?
Don't you miss your family?

Yeah, I do, I just keep working.

Yeah, I am working.

More than I've ever worked.

Sacrificed so much,
and for what?

I just want to be at home,
with my family.

You're not the only
one who feels like that.

The more I let it get to me,
the further away I feel.

As much as I want
to be near them...

to sit on the porch with my dad,

or to smell my mom's cooking...

I know this isn't forever.

But I want to finish what
I started here first.

Is your mom a good cook?

Oh brother, she's the best.

Thanksgiving especially.

What about yours?

Every year my dad would get a
turkey before Thanksgiving,

and my brother would
attach himself to it.

Claim it as a pet.

He didn't realise we
were eating his pet,

until he was eight or nine.

He's never eaten turkey since.

[both laugh]

[car approaches]

Hey.

Thanks.

-Where you headin' cobber?
-Bendigo.

OK, jump in.

[inspirational music]

[car approaches]

Hey, here they are!

How are you doing guys?

Thank you.

-Go, go, go!
-No guys, come on!

[all laugh]

-OK.
-Go, go, go, go!

Guys! Stop kidding
around guys. Come on!

[all laugh]

-Real funny guys, real funny.
-Nice one.

[all laugh]

[Delyle]What do you mean
they've cancelled the game?

I don't know any details. They
just said the game was off.

They couldn't
notify us earlier?

So we hitch hiked all
this way for nothing?

Well done, Condie,

that's another fine mess
you've gotten us into.

[laughs]

So... what do we do now?

Head back home, I guess.

I see what they mean about four
seasons in a day, it's freezing!

Hey! Are you guys
those Mormon Yankees?

Yes, sir, we are.

Oh, I've been looking
everywhere for you.

How did you know
where to find us?

Well, there's not too many
American looking fellas

above six foot around here.

I'm John Whitaker
from the Bendigo Prison.

Heard your game got cancelled.

We were wondering whether you'd
be interested in having a

bit of an exhibition game,
up at the prison?

A prison? Who would we play?

Prisoners! I've coached
some of them into a team.

We play in the local league.

When they heard you
were coming to Bendigo,

they all wanted to play
the great Mormon Yankees.

Isn't meant to rain today sir?

You're Mormons aren't you?

Can't you take care of that?

Can I have a quick
word with my team?

We cannot play in a prison,

President Bingham
will freak out.

Can you think of any group
of people under the sun

-who we could help more.
-He could send you home!

I'm not just passing
the time, Hull.

What if we get stabbed?

We're here, we got
nothing else to do.

I saw a James Cagney film once

where the prisoners had shivs
and stabbed each other.

We'll play, on one condition...
we get a hot meal.

And some ice cream.

Done!

I've spent my whole life living
right and I end up in Prison.

Just don't be here
when we leave.

Hey, good to see you,
thanks boys. Thanks for coming.

We really appreciate this.

[metal bell]

[Song: "She's My Girl"
by The Plants]

*Well I gotta girl

*She's fine

*She looks like
fine wine*

*She got friends,
well that's true*

*I bought big
from the zoo*

*But I love her yes I do

*'Cause she is my girl

*She got big eyes
and juicy lips*

*And when she walks

*Her hips could
she got a smile*

*What she said,
I giggle a while*

*But I love her yes I do
'Cause she is my girl, yeah!*

*If I had to climb a mountain
or swim the deepest sea*

*She's the only girl for me

*That's it, that's all

*That's look what you

*But I love her yes I do
'Cause she is my girl*

[rock and roll music continues]

[music fades]

A prison?

What were you thinking?

The opportunity was there so
I did what I thought was right.

What you thought was right!

Elder Condie, I put my faith in
you to make good choices,

this was not one of them.

Did you even consider the danger
of what might of happened there?

Sir, it's not like
we got stabbed.

Sir, there were guards
with us at all times.

Elder Condie, that is
hardly the point.

This game could set the church
back years if word gets out.

Now, these shenanigans must end.

Or you'll find yourself
door knocking in the outback.

I doubt they play
basketball out there.

Yes sir.

Mmmm. These things, are amazing.

How can he not see it?

I can't think of a better
way for them to accept us.

Otherwise what's the
point of being here?

You know Condie.

At the start, I was just going
along with you because

you were my companion.

But after the prison match...

one of the inmates asked
me to teach him about God.

I think you're onto
something here and...

it's kind of exciting.

Are you sure you
don't want some?

-[Condie laughs]
-It's really good.

So the Olympic Committee
won't allow nations to play each

other before the
actual games begin.

So they want to put
together a tournament,

where countries can play you
boys or some local teams

to get some match practice
before the Olympics.

Us, play against
the Olympic teams?

If you can give them some
good warm up games...

it makes for a better spectacle.

We'd have to run it past
President Bingham first.

And I'm not exactly his
favourite person right now.

Wouldn't you want to go
against the best in the world?

See how good you can be?

And see us get
our trash kicked?

Oh no son.

No, you're as good as
I've ever seen.

We'll ask. But don't
hold your breath.

You boys have got a fan.

Excuse me sir, could I
please have your autograph?

Sure! Do you play?

Oh, my brother and I
only really just started.

We usually play footy.

Well, basketball will be a
blessing in your life.

-What's your name?
-Lindsay.

Lindsay Gaze.

-It's nice to meet you Lindsay.
-Thanks.

Don't worry. If Bingham's going
to flip I'll take the heat.

No you won't.
We're companions...

I'm with you all the way.

What is it, my dear?

[Sister Bingham sighs]

That was Governor Souter
from Bendigo Prison.

The inmates have asked that
we send missionaries to teach...

at the prison!

Apparently all this
basketball nonsense

may have its merits after all.

You've always chosen the right,
and taken care of the underdog.

And the man I know
would never be afraid

to admit when he's
been wrong before.

They are our boys.

We better find out what
these games are all about.

[both laugh]

[radio announcer]
With the Olympics now days away,

basketball fever appears to be
sweeping the Nation.

with teams playing
exhibition matches

to showcase this growing sport.

Crowd favorites,
the Mormon Yankees

are set to take on the Russians

after their convincing
win over China.

These boys are set to win hearts
and minds all across the country

with their skills shining
against the best in the world.

[indiscernible banter]

[player]
That's right, that's good!

[player] Just pass it off.
Good, good, good really nice.

We should play these Americans.

Why would we play them?

They offer nothing to us.

No. They don't
represent their country.

We need the practice.

We haven't played anyone
since we got here.

It's not a practice
to win so easily.

It's the Olympics, there is
no room for religion here.

[rock and roll music
plays on the radio]

You going to watch
any events, Frank?

I wouldn't know what to watch.

So many weird sports
I've never even heard of.

You should still
support your country.

Well, when they have footy or
cricket in there I'll go watch.

Think I'll go and watch
Dawn Fraser in the pool.

Hey!

Are you blokes those
Mormon Yankees?

Yes, sir, we are.

Fair dinkum?

That's you blokes
In the paper?

[Frank laughs]

We've got some famous
people in here, Syd!

No charge for you blokes.

- Thank you sir!
-Hey.

Make sure you give those Ruski's
a run for their money tonight.

[all laugh]

We'll do our best.

I'll sign off now. Give my love
to James and the girls, and mom.

Of course, and thank you again
dad. As always, your loving son.

-Oh.
-Would you look at him.

That's great, that's
against the Russians!

He looks like he's
doing well, Pop.

Dear dad.

Our exhibition games have
been going well.

Leading to many opportunities
with the Australian people.

Their love of sport
is very strong.

And has given us the chance to
talk to them in a meaningful way

It has certainly lifted spirits
of the Elders on the team.

I finally feel like I
know why I'm here.

Our game against the French team

proved to be one of the toughest
challenges we've had so far.

Their coach picked a disused
warehouse out of town

and kept the press
and public out.

He runs a tight ship.

I think a lot of his team are
actually afraid of him.

[Ken]This is going to work in
our favour Stan, I just know it.

[men shout and clap]

[Delyle]
We started strongly.

And managed to get in
a few early baskets.

[shouts commands in French]

But it's not easy keeping one

of the best teams in
the world behind you.

-Ah!
[whistle blows]

They didn't take too kindly to
Missionaries taking the lead.

That's for sure.

[men shout]
[whistle blows]

Very good, very good!

[Mormon Yankee player]
Keep it up boys, keep it tight!

[whistle blows]

[shouts abuse in French]

Boys, if you're going to play
like that, watch yourselves!

[men cheer and clap]

[Delyle]
Stay strong, stay strong!

[whistle blows]
[men clap and cheer]

[shouts commands in French]

[Mormon Yankee player]
Front and guard!

[whistle blows]

[Delyle]
Come on, Ref!

[Delyle]
Soon we learnt the hard way.

That not everyone plays by the
same rules as we do.

But we kept our cool, even when
the French were loosing theirs.

[shouts abuse in French]

[Stan]Keep your hands
to yourself mate!

[whistle blows]
[men clap]

[whistle blows]
[men clap]

[Mormon Yankee player]
Let's go boys!

[whistle blows]

He can't do that!

He can't do that!

[shouts commands in French]

[American Yankee player]
Let's go!

[Stan]
Come on boys, you've got this!

[whistle blows]
Game!

[Delyle]We're still aching
from the encounter.

But can you believe it...

We beat one of the best
teams in the world!

[clapping]

Thanks for the great game.

Pathetic... pathetic!

How can you lose to a
bunch of religious zealots?

Coach, they are better
than we thought.

You will never speak
of this game again.

Not any of you,
not to anyone, OK?

[men chat indistinctly]

The French are going around
saying that they beat you boys.

They can say whatever they like.
We know what happened.

They're insisting on a rematch.

We'll play them again.

But this time under
our conditions.

Olympic Stadium, open to the
public, with Olympic Referees.

And TV Cameras.
They'll hate it!

But anything to see the French
get their knickers in a knot!

I'm sure we can arrange that.

-We better get back.
-[Ken] Yes, yes.

[Mormon Yankee player]
Just pass it off.

Throw the ball across to me.
Nice work!

Condie!

Bill Russell!

Delyle Condie.

I played against
you at Utah, right?

That's right sir. I'm down here
on a mission for my church.

Well, that's one basketball
player who got it right.

This here is Coach Tucker.

And this is my team.

Guys, this is Bill Russell,
Coach Tucker and

the entire American squad!

Saw your match the other day.
Some good defence.

Thank you, Coach.

You boys got it. You all
doing our country proud.

Delyle, best jump shot
I ever seen, man!

You should have
been on our team.

So are you guys up for a
match against us?

You're a tough
team to track down.

Are you kidding? No we wouldn't
stand a chance against you.

It wouldn't feel right playing
against our national team.

Well, you think about it.
Anyway, I was

hoping you could give us
the lowdown on the Russians.

Well, their tall
guy is just that

he doesn't do much else.

The one you need to watch
though is the short guy.

-He's fast.
-Right.

Faster than anybody
I've ever seen.

The way he brings it
down the court like that.

He'll put it up and score two
before you even do anything.

[National news music]

With only days to go before
the opening ceremony

of the Olympic Games,

we're thrilled to bring you
this live television event

on ABC TV tonight.

Behind me, people
are gathering to watch

this exhibition basketball game

between the Mormon Yankees,

a team made up of
young church missionaries,

and the French Olympic team.

This is the second time that
these teams will have met,

and we should be set
for an exciting game.

Elder Condie.

Tell me, are you anxious about
this evening game?

Anxious? Ah... I'm excited.

The French are incredible
players they're a great team.

The Mormon Yankees, we're
excited to play our best so...

That's fantastic congratulations
and good luck sir!

Roger Breedy ABC TV.

[crowd applauds]

[rhythmic clapping]

[TV announcer]
Welcome to this iconic broadcast

from Melbourne's
Olympic Stadium.

For the grudge match between
the Mormon Yankees

and the French Olympic Team.

As you know, the Mormon Yankees
have helped coached

our Australian team,

And they've also had practice
matches with other Olympic teams

If I could have a moment.

After today's over,

we go back to being
just Missionaries.

Go on... go on.

My father once told me that...

basketball could bring people
from all walks of life together.

No matter what colour or
religion you are.

These people are
here to watch us!

We've been blessed.

Just want to say thank you.

To all of you.

Including you, President.

I was told that
serving a Mission

would be the best
two years of my life.

And it has been.

To be able to use the
game that I love...

to bring people
towards Salvation.

It's a story worth telling our
kids about, right?

As you all know,

I wasn't in favour of
allowing my missionaries

to play organized basketball.

But I was wrong.

The sportsmanship that
you have exhibited

to everyone who's
seen you play,

is going to change
people's hearts.

You've done us proud.

Now, I don't know
much about basketball but

I know tonight we going to
beat the pants off the French.

Elder Garn, would you
lead us in prayer please?

Dear Heavenly Father,

We thank you for
this opportunity

to play this game...

[uplifting music]

[applause and cheering]

[TV announcer]
The crowd are on their feet

as the Mormon Yankees
enter the stadium.

-There he is.
-Who?

-Delyle.
-Where?

He's the star
player of the team.

[TV announcer]
These American missionaries

are set to take on
the best in the world.

Coming to you live

from Olympic Stadium
in Melbourne Australia.

Yankees on three...
one, two, three, Yankees!

The starting line up for
the Mormon Yankees are

Condie, Hull, Frodsham,
Kimball and Garn.

With the French team fielding

Ray, Antoine, Monclar,
Beugnot and Grange.

[American National Anthem plays]

-Dad, what are they singing?
-The National Anthem.

Stirring moments indeed.

[crowd cheers]

If they use rough tactics on us
I want you to be our enforcer.

Within the spirit of
the game, of course.

You don't have to
ask me twice.

I'll show those wine
sippers how we play ball.

-Missionary style.
-Garn.

Monclair's their go-to guy. If
you give him space he'll score.

Not tonight, he's not.

Let's play ball boys!

[Announcer]
And we're set for the tip off.

-Very short shorts.
-[snickers]

The French are
certainly athletic

and one of the best
teams in the world.

They'll be looking to dominate
this American Mormon team.

[whistle blows]
[crowd cheers]

[Announcer]
First possession goes to the

Mormon Yankees,
Hull carrying the ball.

A low pass from
Garn to Kimball.

The Yankees look in
complete control here.

Frodsham to Condie
who goes up and

the Yankees are first to score!

[crowd cheers]

Ray is bringing the ball
down for the French,

but the Yankee defence
is looking solid.

To Antoine now who makes
short work of Garn and

passes to Monclar.
Monclar is going in and..

oh he goes down!

Just minutes in and this game
is already getting physical.

[Referee]
Seven, push.

Prepare for war.

Oh yeah? How did the
last one work out?

Monclar easily taking
his free throw

as the tension mounts
between these two teams.

[crowd cheers]

[whistle blows]
And another golden boy goes down

[crowd jeers]

Foul on 12 white...push.

What are they doing?

That was an
interesting call Ref.

If you don't like it, too bad!

Oh no, you were spot on,
it was most definitely a foul.

-Thank you.
-It's just for the wrong team.

[Announcer]
A foul called on the Yankees!

The crowd clearly showing their
displeasure at this decision.

As the French score, slowly
starting to pull ahead.

A long ball finds Hull.

Shifts it to Condie.

[whistle blows]
He's contacted by Beugnot.

Condie's on his feet, but they
are really taking a beating.

Clearly the French are trying to
intimidate the Mormon Yankee's

with some rough tactics.

With Hull now.
[half time siren blares]

And he too goes down
as we hit half time.

Oh no!

The French are the fourth
ranked team in the world

and are pulling out all stops
against these young Mormons.

Leading them by just four points
at this stage of the game.

[crowd claps rhythmically]

[Delyle]
Right, listen, listen!

Those guys are going to
throw everything at us.

Prepare yourselves!

If we can ride the knocks and
hold them steady we can win this

Hull, huh?
Are you OK?

-Yeah.
-OK.

What do you call that?!

You are letting them
humiliate you again.

In front of the whole
world this time!

Coach, they are playing
superb basketball.

And you are playing
for your superb country?!

Does that not mean
something to you?!

Remember why we got on
that boat to come out here.

This is not for us, but for all
of those who are following us.

And for those who
are cheering for us.

OK this... this is our time.
Come on boys!

Come on boys, come on!

[crowd cheers]

[uplifting music]

[Announcer]
And Condie scores again!

[all cheer]

[Announcer]
Antoine is moving up the court.

The momentum
shifting to the French.

As they swiftly close the gap.

[whistle blows]
[crowd boos]

Let's start Yankees.
Tight defence!

[whistle blows]
[crowd boos]

[together] Boo!
[Baby cries]

[Announcer]
A pass to Beugnot.

Hull steals.

And he's running down the clock.

[whistle blows]
Foul by the French Captain!

That's five fouls for him.

And he takes a
seat on the bench.

Those Mormon Yankees are
the best we've ever played.

[Announcer]This match has been
a war of attrition by the French

wearing down the Yankees who are
showing clear signs of fatigue.

[whistle blows]

Yeah, Kimball!

[whistle blows]

[Announcer]
And Condie goes down!

He appears to be out cold.

Come on kid you gotta
get up and keep going.

[crowd roars]
Condie is up, He is on his feet!

Just listen to that crowd!

[Hull]
We got this Condie, we got this!

[Hull]
Time out, time out Ref!

Hey... you all right?

There's no shame
in retiring son.

Your health is much more
important than just a game.

No... this is more than
just a game, sir.

To them.

Yes it is!

Look around at the bleachers.

these people who
used to shun us,

and slam doors on our
faces are cheering for us.

And here, tonight...

I want people to remember the
Mormon Yankees for who we are

and what we stand for!

Yankees will have to
forfeit the match.

Says who?

How can they play with
three on the floor?

Are you going to tell all these
people they have to forfeit hey?

[crowd claps and chants]
It's an exhibition game, mate!

They can hang from the bloody
rafters if they want to!

Play ball!

[crowd chants]
Let them play, let them play!

[Ken Watson]
Did you hear what I said?

[crowd chants]
Let them play, let them play!

[Ken Watson angrily]
Did you hear what I said?!

[Ken Watson] Blow your whistle
and let's get started!

Go on!

[crowd cheers and roars]

[Announcer]
Play ball said the Referee!

This is extraordinary!
The Yankees,

with only three
men on the court!

And just seconds remaining.

This game is going to go
down to the wire!

We can run down the clock
and score two to win it.

But we must get possession.

Hull... Kimball...

There are no plays that I
can tell you from now.

From now, it's all instinctive.

Come on, come on!

Now the Yankees are down to
three fit men on the court.

Well, you'll never know that
these two countries

were allies during the war.

This is what you'd expect
from the Russians.

[crowd cheers and claps]

Come on!

[uplifting music]

[indiscernible on court banter]

Come on boys, come on!

[Announcer]
Score! The French Olympic team

have beaten the Mormon Yankees
by the narrowest of margins.

In what can only be described
as a nail biting finish.

[crowd boos and jeers]

[crowd claps in unison]

[crowd cheers and claps]

We played that game
fair and square!

You can't have an
extra free throw! Travel!

We'll protest son!

Protest to who, Ken?

We're here to give them practice
and that's what we did.

When I'm wrong, I admit it.

Good game, Condie.

You're a great player.

[crowd roars]

[Credit music]