Tangiwai (2011) - full transcript
A dramatic story about a cricketer and his fiancée.
SLOW REFLECTIVE MUSIC
WATER RIPPLES
WATER GURGLES
(SQUEALS)
(LAUGHS)
REFLECTIVE MUSIC CONTINUES
(PANTS)
Marry me.
MUSIC CRESCENDOES
MUSIC CONTINUES
(LAUGHS)
MUSIC CONTINUES
MAN LAUGHS
Hey, did he hold you under
the water till you were green?
Oh, he let me up for some air.
I should've proposed yesterday.
(LAUGHS) I'll take that as
congratulations. Thanks, Toki.
You getting married in
your grandfather's skirt?
I'll get married in a kilt, Toki,
if you give us a wee haka at the
wedding.
You're on.
CHUCKLES: Oh no.
My mother would faint.
(GRUNTS)
(LAUGHS)
And just what is going on here,
then? And why is Bob in his togs?
Eva, how would you like
to be my maid of honour?
BOTH SCREAM
Oh! I knew it!
Oh! Oh! Bob, about bloody time!
Are you still playing on Saturday?
Or are you getting married before
she changes her mind?
Oh, not likely. I wanna
do those Cantabs first.
Better put some clothes on, then.
BOTH LAUGH
Corpus Christi.
Amen.
Corpus Christi.
Amen.
Corpus Christi.
BAGPIPES PLAY 'SCOTLAND THE BRAVE'
BAGPIPES CONTINUE PLAYING
That bloody man.
To Bob and Nerissa.
ALL: Bob and Nerissa.
(GIGGLES)
Up yer kilts.
Nerissa Blair. Oh... Your dad will
be so pleased. And your mother.
You come along. You come
along and tell me all about it.
Don't suppose you got down on
one knee, the lazy beggar. Huh?
Is this him? ♪
Yes.
Which one?
(LAUGHS) Well, which
one do you think?
You don't deserve her, you know.
Says who?
You're a tinny bastard.
Eh?
You...
What about her folks?
Have you talked to them yet?
Yeah!
WHACK!
Good shot, Stan.
WHACK!
WHACK!
Well, I heard he had this thing
about Cantabrians, but that's just
barbaric.
Uh, he's a young fast
bowler, that's all.
We'll room in with you,
then, Bert, if he makes it.
Tell you what — if you don't take
Blair,... have a look-see at this
guy.
You're not serious? ♪
Well, it would set the cat among
the pigeons in South Africa,
wouldn't it?
LIVELY BIG-BAND MUSIC PLAYS
MUSIC CONTINUES PLAYING
(LAUGHS)
There you are.
Yeah. Thought I'd lost you.
Jim, this is Eva, Nerissa's friend.
They're getting hitched
and buggering to Auckland.
You can't go to Auckland. What
am I going to do without you?
Why don't you come to Auckland?
We can all live together.
I could never drag
Bob away from Petone.
Yeah, just like you can't drag Bob
to the dance floor. Come on, baby.
On your pegs.
You want a drink?
Nerissa.
I'm OK, thanks.
Thanks, Toki. Love to.
LIVELY MUSIC CONTINUES PLAYING
(LAUGHS)
I don't see a ring on that finger.
We'll get around to it.
MUSIC ENDS, AUDIENCE APPLAUDS
We're gonna bring it down a notch
now. Please welcome Rita May.
CHEERING, APPLAUSE
BAND PLAYS INTRO TO 'HINE E HINE'
Time's up, Toki.
# E tangi ana koe. ♪
# Hine e hine. #
'HINE E HINE' CONTINUES FAINTLY
(GASPS)
Bob, stop. I'm gonna explode.
What — you think
you're gonna explode?
Come on.
We can't.
Why not? We're engaged.
We'll be careful, OK?
THWACK!
How's the backseat bingo going?
(SIGHS)
Bugger off, Stan.
Tuning into the wireless.
Might hear your famous name.
Oh...
WIRELESS: It is my privilege
as the chairman of selectors
to announce the following
15-man squad to represent NZ
in the forthcoming tour of
South Africa and Australia.
Captain — GO Rabone,...
JEF Beck,...
RW Blair...
ALL CHEER
Well done, Bob.
Thank you.
Thanks, Jim.
Congratulations.
Well done, Bob.
Thanks, Eva.
Congratulations, Bob.
Oh, come on. Get out.
I knew you'd make it.
CUTLERY CLINKS
Right. Well, um, thank you,
Mrs Love. That was... That
was lovely.
You're welcome, Bob.
Plenty more.
Not for you.
We've actually got
something to announce.
Yes, we do.
Nerissa and I...
We're gonna get married!
KIDS LAUGH
SILENCE
You're too young.
I'm 19. You'd had me by this age.
Don't you get smart with me.
And he's not Catholic.
Well, that's hardly a first.
I'm sure Bob would do the right
thing by Nerissa.
How do you mean?
You can convert. I did.
It's no big deal.
No. No, actually, I'm afraid
I couldn't do that.
Don't you wanna get
married in a church?
Yeah, sure.
But I can't just become a Catholic.
Well, that's that, then.
I didn't think you were
like your grandfather.
Oh, for God's sake, I'm not like
my grandfather. But I can't just
convert.
Don't even know if I believe in God.
What do you believe in?
Me.
I'm going to be the greatest fast
bowler this country has ever seen,
and not because of God or fate or
saying the right prayers in the
right church,
but because I've worked hard.
I believe in myself.
CHURCH BELL TOLLS
Can't you just do
it for the wedding?
Why would you want to start
our lives together with a lie?
Nessie, come on. Don't do this.
Don't make me choose between you
and my beliefs.
Isn't that exactly
what you want me to do?
BELL CONTINUES TOLLING
(SIGHS)
TRAIN RUMBLES
CLATTERING
Whoo!
TRAIN RUMBLES IN DISTANCE
FAINT WHOOPING
(SPEAKS MAORI)
(SIGHS)
(SPEAKS MAORI)
You're home early. No wickets today?
No. 3/14. Plus two drop
catches and a plum LB.
A Blair is never happy with
anything short of perfection.
And on that note, I'd better take
me wee friends outside for walkies
before the nuns go in for dinner.
Why do you bother?
Eh?
Why don't you just leave them alone?
They're going to their church just
like you're going to yours.
Let me tell you something, lad.
We'll leave them alone the
day they leave us alone —
the day they stop trying to weasel
their papist ways on to us;
the day they stop trying to
convert our young people by
marriage to their high church
and then make them send their
children to Catholic schools
and join Catholic sports clubs
and work for Catholic businesses
to line the pockets at the pulpit!
(SIGHS) When that day comes, don't
worry, Bob, I'll be first in line to
leave the bloody Micks alone.
Ach. The nuns are never
late for their food.
TRANQUIL PIANO MUSIC
(SNARLS LOUDLY)
Bob, you scared me. God!
Careful. He might hear ya.
Got the flowers, I see.
They're beautiful.
Thank you.
So, we beat Canterbury.
I read about it.
Thought I might've seen you there.
Nessie, I'm sorry. Just...
I just want us to be together.
Me too.
Forever.
So, what do you think?
About what?
GENTLE MUSIC
(LAUGHS)
Oop.
Oop. (LAUGHS)
MUSIC CONTINUES
This is where we should get married.
It's not Catholic.
No, but it's ours.
We've met here so many lunchtimes,
after work. And you even tried to
take my pants off over there.
I did not try to
take your pants off.
What do you say?
I say you just wasted your money!
Why are you being so stubborn?
I'm being stubborn?!
Yes, you are.
You haven't changed your mind.
You're as bad as your grandfather
marching outside mass!
I am not asking you to marry my
grandfather, and I'm not trying
to marry your mother!
< Why are we even
talking about parents?
Because you have a chip on your
shoulder about this big about them!
It's Methodist!
Oh, for God's sake!
Bob! Bob!
Well, bugger you!
GENTLE PIANO MUSIC
Sorry.
MUSIC CONTINUES
< MEN ARGUE
Now, that's enough, all right?
Bugger you!
< LOUD SCUFFLING
Bob! Bob!
Bob!
Bob, stop it! I'm not
marrying a street fighter!
You what?
You heard me.
No, I thought you decided—
I was wrong.
You shouldn't have to change to
marry me. I'll be Catholic and...
you be whatever you are.
And if I have to marry
you under a street lamp—
(SCREAMS) Bob!
(LAUGHS)
You bloody bugger!
NERISSA SCREECHES
(CHUCKLES)
My parents split up when I was 2.
Where are they now?
MELANCHOLY MUSIC
Mum's in Karori.
Really?
Yeah.
We don't see her much these days.
My dad comes and goes —
you know, he does his best.
I'm sorry.
MUSIC CONTINUES
You're the first person
I'd ever needed.
MUSIC QUICKENS
MUSIC CONTINUES
What did you do with
the rest of them?
I gave them to someone.
Not a bloke?
(CHUCKLES)
No.
Well, I'll buy you some more.
I don't need flowers.
I will always buy
you flowers, Nessie.
Always.
Aye aye, captain.
Eva,...
Mm?
Have you and Stan,...
you know...
done it?
‘Course not.
(GASPS) Have you?!
Keep it down! Blimey!
‘Course we have, doll.
Haven't you?
No, I thought we had to wait.
You really are such a good little
convent girl, aren't you?
Not really.
BOYS LAUGH
(SIGHS)
You're horny!
I feel like a cat on heat. And Bob —
I wouldn't blame him if he ran off
with some South African girl.
So do it. You're engaged. Just...
don't do it in the back of a car.
It's torture.
Or sand, for that matter.
(GIGGLES) Chafing!
BOTH LAUGH
(SNORTS)
Ooh!
BOTH LAUGH
These earrings are a
bit much, do you think?
Whatever you say, doll.
I look like my mother.
You do not look—
My God, you do look like your
mother. What have you been doing?
I don't know. I kept adding more.
Oh!
JEWELLERY CLINKS
There. (LAUGHS)
Eva! Now I look like a call girl.
Oh!
DOORBELL RINGS
He's here!
(SIGHS)
Remember, just say yes,
even if you're not sure.
Yes.
Well, answer the door,
then. (GIGGLES) Bye!
Hello, Nessie.
Hello, Bob.
So they're not gonna be back
till tomorrow lunchtime?
< At the earliest.
< They're staying the night in town.
They'll have mass in the morning.
ow!
< CROCKERY CLATTERS
Do you need a hand out there?
No! Just... Coming.
So, what have you made for me?
Fish and chips?! How could she?
Who?
Eva. She told me it would be a
traditional Kiwi meal you'd love.
Why's Eva cooking the dinner?
Because...
I'm a terrible cook.
I can't boil an egg.
I burn toast. It's true.
I got an E for cooking, and the
report said, 'l pity the poor man
who ends up with Nerissa Love.'
Well,... I guess we shouldn't
get married, then.
Which is a shame, really, cos I've
just gone and forked out for this.
(GASPS, LAUGHS) Bob!
But now I know all of your secrets,
I think I've changed my mind.
Give me that ring! (LAUGHS)
Do you like it?
Put it on my finger.
I would happily live on fish and
chips forever... if it was with you.
(LAUGHS)
DAPHNE WALKER'S "WAIHI MOON'
PLAYS ON WIRELESS
# Waihi moon churning so bright,
# guide my love with your light.
# And brighten the way
# to my heart.
# As the surf graces the sand,
# tender hearts in lovers lane
# be as one... #
(PANTS)
(BREATHES DEEPLY)
What are you doing?
Can I chuck it out the window?
Yes.
SLOW, EMOTIVE MUSIC
MUSIC CONTINUES
(GASPS SOFTLY)
MUSIC CONTINUES
BIRDS CHIRP
< CAR PULLS UP
It's Dad's car.
Oh shit!
Come on! Hurry!
(GIGGLES)
(GROANS)
Mr and Mrs Love, I realise you're
quite worked up right now, but—
Given you a chance to get your
pants on. Now you can clear out.
Hold on. We are engaged.
Not as far as I'm
concerned, you're not.
Bob.
No, we haven't done anything wrong.
I know exactly what you've done.
And I'll tell you something for
nothing — you'll never do it again.
Clear out!
I saw your diddle!
It's a circus. And on a Sunday!
I love Nerissa. I just want
us to get married, that's all.
Then I suggest you walk out of
this house while you still can.
DOOR SLAMS
You little slut.
I wonder where I got that from.
(GASPS)
DOOR SLAMS
MELANCHOLY MUSIC
(SIGHS)
MUSIC CONTINUES
(SNIFFS)
(LAUGHS)
LAUGHS: No— No bull.
Completely starkers.
Mattress on my head,
hoofing it for the back door.
Well, now they'll know why
we call you ‘rabbit'.
I was followed by the full
nine yards from her old man.
Of course.
Hey, you know Eva's father had me up
against the wall with the old 303.
(MAKES SHOOTING NOISE)
You're kidding.
Damn bugger.
Almost as mad as his daughter.
How did you get him to agree
to a marriage after that?
Oh,...
got down on my knees and begged
him, you know. (FEIGNS CRYING)
Well, you can't blame him.
The hell I can't. They
don't own these girls.
Look, Nerissa's
their eldest daughter.
They had plans for her to marry
some nice St Pat's boy with a
silver spoon in his mouth,
not some... two-minute wonder
from Petone with deformed feet.
Hey! These are my war wounds.
Oh, they stink. I'm surprised
Nerissa came within cooee of
those things.
I'll have you know she loves
these feet. Especially this one.
Oh,... phwoar. Get outta here.
(LAUGHS)
Kia ora, Toki.
Morning.
Hey, you, um, you here
for the summer, Toke?
Yeah, thought I might
chaperone the Queen.
Thought you might
do something for me.
Last time I did you a favour,
Bob, I almost lost my job.
Yeah, but I looked great in
your guard's uniform, didn't 1?
(LAUGHS) You did.
Nah, it's just... Stan and Eva are
buggering off to Auckland, and I'm
gonna be away for quite a while.
Just... I'm worried that Nerissa's
gonna get a bit lonely. Was hoping
you could keep an eye out for her.
I'll do it for you, Bob.
Good on you.
Just one eye, mind.
(CHUCKLES)
INDISTINCT COMMENTARY ON WIRELESS
(RAPS ON GLASS)
Bob.
Mr Love, I wanted to come
and see you before I leave.
Just wanted to tell you that...
no matter what you might
think, I love Nerissa.
Now, I know I'm not what you
had in mind for a son-in-law.
I don't have any money,
I'm not a Catholic.
I can't do much except play cricket.
I'm just Bob Blair.
You've gotta start
somewhere, don't you?
TRANQUIL MUSIC
MUSIC CONTINUES
Bugger off, Overton. Not now.
You won't change your
mind while I'm away?
(SCOFFS) I think that's what
my parents are counting on.
FOGHORN BLOWS
We can still elope, Missy.
Come with us now.
What — elope and stowaway?
Yeah, I'd let you out
of the hold at midnight.
(CHUCKLES)
We'll sleep on the deck together.
Very romantic.
FOGHORN BLOWS
Just...
(CRIES)
Just... don't forget me, OK?
My darling...
GENTLE MUSIC
MUSIC CONTINUES
Hit a six for me.
SHIP RUMBLES
And Bob Blair's ripped out the
middle stump first ball of the Test.
What a moment for
the young fast bowler.
I was just checking it fitted.
Mooney's gang's on their way.
Oh shit!
Oh. Here's trouble.
What are you up to, rabbit?
Getting changed for dinner?
Not likely.
Listen, I've been thinking.
Shouldn't do that, Starlight.
That always ends badly.
This tour money we've all been given
— it's too much for each of us to be
carrying around.
Best idea is we make one
person responsible for the lot
and everyone just comes to them
to get however much they want.
And that just happens
to be you, does it?
You always have the tour
bank. Come on, Suttie.
I want it back in pounds,
not race tickets.
I guarantee customer satisfaction.
Right, rabbit. Young fella like
you — you'll be fleeced the moment
you arrive in Africa.
Yeah, OK. I just, um,
I don't have the full amount.
Crikey, what did you
do with the rest of it?
Well, I had my fiancee a ring.
Oh, rabbit. You're going to the
country with the cheapest diamonds
in the world.
She must be some girl.
Mm.
DRUMS BEAT RHYTHMICALLY
The drums of Fiji sound a welcome
to the Queen from across the seas.
Never before has a reigning
British monarch visited these
isles.
Today, Suva exults in
the spirit of empire.
SINGING
Tired though the Royal couple must
be after their strenuous day,
they delight the waiting crowd
with a personal touch, which
endears the Crown to the people.
Side by side, man and wife,
in all their happiness.
And while the Queen sails forth
to our shores for her much-awaited
Christmas visit,
the NZ cricket team are
arriving in sunny South Africa.
A large crowd has gathered at
the wharf to welcome the Kiwis.
It's Bob!
The captain, Geoff Rabone,
receives flowers from a couple
of Cape Town beauties.
No, he's gone.
Hey, go back! She wants
to see his ugly mug again.
Let's hope the team aren't
too distracted by this splendid
greeting
and keep their eye on the ball
in the upcoming Test series.
(WOLF WHISTLES)
Good luck, chaps, and here's
hoping for an elusive first-Test
victory
so we can kiss that
losing streak goodbye.
ENDING MUSIC PLAYS
Hold on tight. I only
have Maori brakes.
What are those?
My feet!
(LAUGHS)
SCOOTER RUMBLES
< Thanks.
OK, Suttie.
Bogo.
Bones.
Bones.
Bones again.
Ah, Skip. Salty.
Oh, bad luck. Here's another one.
ALL LAUGH
And Chaps. Dive.
ALL: Oh!
That's it, lads. ♪
Oh, that's right. Rabbit...
there's one for you.
Unless you count these ones.
ALL LAUGH
Mm. Darling. 'Dear Bob Bunny, can't
wait to feel your furriness against
me, your long hard... ears.'
ALL LAUGH
Cut it out.
OK, lads. Rooms are
ready. Moving out.
Don't read them all at once, rabbit.
Don't want you to go blind.
Oh, hey, I've got that.
Here, I'll take it. Thanks.
407.
BOB: 'Well, Ness, certainly a bit
different over here, and I wish you
could be here to see it with me.
‘Every day it's more travelling,
sightseeing, dinners, dances, and
now and then a bit of cricket.'
CRICKETERS SING: # ...and
it's gone right to my head.
# Wherever I may roam...
'We've given old Overton a hard time
with his fancy camera everywhere,
‘but I reckon we'll be lining up
to watch it when we get back,
‘cos you couldn't put
all of this into words.'
# Show me the way to go home.
# But I never wanna go to bed.
# I had a little drink about an
hour ago, and it's gone right to
my head.
# Wherever I may roam,
# on land or sea or foam,
# You'll always hear
me singing this song.
# Show me the way to go home. #
‘Despite all the fun and games here,
Ness, you're on my mind morning,
noon and night.
'How about you come to Auckland
to meet us off the ship?
"You could stay with Stan and Eva.
We could have a few days together
before we face the music.
"Think about it, eh? Your
poor, patient fiance, Bob.'
(SIGHS)
WOMAN LAUGHS ♪
MAN: Wrong room, Starlight.
Sorry about that. ♪
DOOR SLAMS
< RAUCOUS LAUGHTER
Starlight, open up.
< LOUD SHUSHING
Hey, rabbit. What's going on?
Oh, Salty and I are just engaging in
a bit of early morning calisthenics.
Care to join us?
No, no. I need some money.
Now?
Yeah. £20.
WOMAN LAUGHS
LOUD SHUSHING
LAUGHTER
Bob says secretly they hope
they lose the toss and bowl first.
Rabone has lost five tosses in
a row, so that shouldn't be hard.
If you don't fix the wireless,
we're all going to miss the Queen's
message tomorrow.
All right. All right.
I've got a list as long as my arm
to get through today. Go on. Off
you go.
Thank you.
Don't think you're going to spend
Christmas Eve with your feet up.
DOORBELL RINGS
Oh! Who's that?
I'll get it.
DOOR CLOSES ♪
They're for you, Ness. From Bob.
Oh, no.
MUTTERS: Oh yes.
Go on. Off you go.
Isn't he just the most romantic
man in the world? (CHUCKLES)
38 letters he's sent me — one every
day he's been on the ship and since
they've arrived. And now these!
Do you know he was on the cover
of Cape News? It's a South African
newspaper — a big photo just of Bob.
They went on a safari, where they
saw elephants and giraffes in the
wild, and a dance show one night,
where the whole crowd clapped
them just for sitting down!
Well, bully for them.
What do you mean, 'bully for them'?
Bob this, Bob that.
He's all hair oil and no socks.
He's your future son-in-law.
You should be proud.
He's not my future son-in-law.
Yes, he is.
And I'll be 20 in a month, and we'll
do it without you if we have to.
Oh yes? And how do you keep a roof
over your head with him gallivanting
around,
being clapped for
sitting on his chuff?
We'll make a go of it.
OK, that's enough! Just leave it.
Both of you.
Dad, you like Bob. I know you do.
If he cared about you, he'd
marry you in a Catholic church.
Not everyone's like you.
Not everyone rolls over
and pretends to believe
a whole lot of things
because their wife does!
You leave Dad out of it!
You're not marrying outside the
Catholic church, and that's the
end to it!
Why can't you just be happy for
me? I love him and he loves me.
Do you know what it's like to want
to be with someone that loves you?!
That's enough!
You can't even hear it,
you're so dried up and bitter!
Nerissa!
You made your choices, Mum,
and now I'm gonna make mine.
DOOR OPENS, SLAMS ♪
DRAMATIC MUSIC
(SNIFFS)
I'm going to Auckland.
I'm going to stay with Eva, and
when Bob gets back, we're gonna
get married.
I'm not fighting with
you about this any more.
MELANCHOLY MUSIC
< DOOR SHUTS
MUSIC CONTINUES
Nerissa! Nerissa!
(PANTS)
She just wants what's best for you.
She's not gonna change her mind.
(PANTS) Like mother
like daughter, Nessie.
Merry Christmas, Dad.
Nessie,...
Merry Christmas, love.
(SIGHS)
What do you want?
(SIGHS)
TINKLING MUSIC PLAYS
MUSIC CONTINUES
MUSIC STOPS ABRUPTLY
# Joyful and triumphant...
Oh!
#0, come, ye... #
Nerissa?
Thank you, sweetheart.
And I thought Santa
hadn't gotten my letter.
Toki.
TRAIN TOOTS
Come with me.
There's only one catch — you have
to pretend you bought a first-class
ticket.
OK.
And you have to marry me.
That's two catches.
Well, you know I can't count.
WHISTLE BLOWS
TRAIN TOOTS
TRAIN CHUFFS
There you go, ma'am. E noho.
This is Miss Nerissa Love. She'll be
travelling through to Auckland with
us.
I'm Delia Holman. This
is my husband, John.
Hello.
Pleased to meet you.
Nerissa here is engaged to
Bob Blair, the NZ cricketer.
See the beautiful ring
he finally bought her.
Congratulations.
Well, we're honoured.
First Test starts
tonight, doesn't it? ♪
Indeed it does.
Now, were you the gentlemen who
wanted a sly scotch every time a
wicket fell?
That sounds like a
most patriotic idea.
I will see you shortly, then.
TRAIN CHUGS
(SPEAKS MAORI)
(SPEAKS MAORI)
(SPEAKS MAORI)
(SPEAKS MAORI)
STATIC BUZZES
Come on, Jim. What's
the matter with ya?
Another beer might help.
Oh, ah, ah, ah!
COMMENTATOR SPEAKS
Righty-ho. (SIGHS)
There you go. Peel those if
you're going to sit here all night.
Oh, Em. Come on.
Oh, stop! Oh!
Sit down and listen to your
grandson bowl for his country!
What better Christmas
present could you have, huh?
(SIGHS)
Pass me a beer, then, Jim.
Might as well wet my whistle.
(LAUGHS) ♪
COMMENTATOR: He delivers...
It's short.
THINKS: 'Dear Bob, today you've been
out on the field bowling your heart
out
‘and I've been back
here crying mine out.
‘Don't worry, my love. I realise
now you've been right all along.
'We mustn't wait for
anyone's permission to marry.
‘It's our life, and we must show
them that we mean to be together
forever.'
South Africa are one wicket down,
thanks to Mr Bob Blair from Petone!
ALL CHEER
I feel like I know him personally.
< I'll have to add
that to the letter.
'Well done, from John and Delia, who
don't know you from a bar of soap.'
More South African wickets!
Hear, hear!
(GROANS, LAUGHS)
When you're done, I could put that
with the post in Taihape, if you
like.
Thanks, Toki.
TRAIN CHUGS
Thought you were going to wear
a red suit tonight, Bill.
Nah, leaving that for the wife.
She looks even more
the part. Ho, ho, ho.
(LAUGHS)
(LAUGHS) Need to get in
the festive spirit, Charlie.
Yeah, don't tell me I've got you on
board. Haven't you got a home to go
to?
You're all the family
I need,... Dad.
Ai-ai-ai. (LAUGHS) Get out of it!
BIRD HOOTS
BIRD TRILLS
TRAIN RUMBLES IN DISTANCE
(BLOWS WHISTLE)
Right, you're all clear, Charlie.
Good-oh. Merry Christmas, Bill.
Merry Christmas. ♪
TRAIN TOOTS
UNSETTLING MUSIC
MUSIC CONTINUES
TRAIN RUMBLES LOUDLY
Cyril.
TYRES SCREECH
DRAMATIC MUSIC
WAVES CRASH
Holy hell.
WAVES CRASH
< TRAIN TOOTS
Torch! Torch!
MUSIC BUILDS
Hey! Hey, stop!
No! Stop the train!
Stop it!
You see that? Up there.
CYRIL: Stop the train!
Stop!
DRAMATIC MUSIC
Stop the train!
Stop the fucking train!
TRAIN TOOTS
CRASH!
CARRIAGE RUMBLES,
PASSENGERS CRY OUT
WAVES ROAR, PEOPLE SCREAM
LOUD CREAKING, PASSENGERS SCREAM
What happened?
You need to get out
of this carriage now!
Just come out!
This way, please!
Come on! Just hurry! ♪
Come this way! ♪
CARRIAGE CREAKS
Don't worry about your things.
Just come out, please!
ALL TALK AT ONCE
CARRIAGE CREAKS, NERISSA SCREAMS
CRASH!
SCREAMING
MUFFLED SCREAMS
WAVES CRASH
MUFFLED SCREAMS
CYRIL: Window!
Get this window open!
PANICKED SCREAMS
Hurry!
Down this end!
WAVES CRASH, PASSENGERS SCREAM
All right! Keep coming! Keep coming!
TOKI: Nerissa!
Who's next?
Nerissa!
Nerissa! Nerissa!
Nerissa!
< We need a torch out here!
Here you go!
No! Not yet! Nerissa!
No!
No, we can't leave her!
There's no one there! Come on!
Nerissa!
MEN HEAVE
ETHEREAL SINGING: # O holy night,
the stars are brightly shining.
# It is the night of
the dear Saviour's birth.
# Long lay the world
in sin and error pining,
# till He appeared and
the soul felt its worth.
# A thrill of hope,
# the weary world rejoices,
# for yonder breaks a
new and glorious morn.
APPLAUSE
# Fall on your knees.
WOMAN: Bob! ♪
# O hear the angels' voices.
# O night divine.
# O night when Christ was born.
# O night divine
# O night
# O night divine.
SPLASH!
Nerissa!
# With glowing hearts
by his cradle we stand.
(GASPS)
She's alive!
Help, please!
# ...of a star sweetly gleaming,
# Here came the wise
men from the Orient land.
# Truly, he taught us
to love one another.
(GRUNTS)
# ...and his gospel is peace.
God.
< SOTTO VOCE: Oh God. God.
# ...for the slave is our brother.
(SOBS)
(SOBS)
Help!
# Sweet hymns of joy in
grateful chorus raise we.
SCREAMS: Help me!
# Let all within us
praise His holy name.
# Christ is the Lord.
# Then ever, ever praise we.
Aue!
# His power and glory
# evermore proclaim.
(SOBS)
# His power and glory
# evermore proclaim. #
(SOBS)
(MURMURS)
(SOBS)
(WHISTLES)
CHRISTMAS MUSIC
PLAYS ON WIRELESS ♪
Whoo-hoo!
Any sign of her?
Nah. Thought maybe
she changed her mind.
(LAUGHS)
WIRELESS: We interrupt this
broadcast to play an important—
Wasn't a waste of a trip.
...from the prime minster,
Sydney Holland.
SYDNEY HOLLAND: It is with
profound regret that I have
to announce
that a most serious railway
accident has occurred to the
3pm express
travelling from Wellington to
Auckland. The disaster occurred
at 10.21pm last night.
It appears the walls of the Crater
Lake on Mt Ruapehu collapsed,
causing a flash flood that
destroyed the rail bridge at
Tangiwai. T-A-N-G-I-W-A-l.
I deeply regret to say that this
is the most disastrous railway
accident in NZ's history,
and unfortunately it has been
attended by appalling loss of
life.
At the time of the disaster,
there were 267 passengers.
Of this number, only 103 have
so far been accounted for.
SOLEMN MUSIC
< SOLDIER: Left, right! Left, right!
He's got a daughter in the
crash. We're trying to find out—
Uh, name?
Love. Nerissa Love.
PAPER RUSTLES
She's there?
(SIGHS) I'm sorry.
(GASPS)
You'll need to identify her. ♪
You all right?
SHAKILY: I don't think
I can do this, Jim.
(SIGHS)
SOLEMN MUSIC
MUSIC CONTINUES
Jim.
She's over here.
MUSIC CONTINUES
ALL LAUGH
All right. (READS) Um, Merry
Christmas to John and all the
team. Love, the Beck family.
Salty. Who would've
thought you had a mother?
LAUGHTER
Ah, this one's from WA Hadley.
Ah, the A will cost
him another pound.
LAUGHTER
READS: 'Great effort yesterday.'
Oh, stop.
‘Enjoy rest today.'
Stop.
‘Finish job tomorrow.' ♪
ALL: Yes. Yeah, yes.
Ah, thanks.
< MOONEY: Open it up. Open it up.
Ah, it's addressed to me.
'My darling Bob, please don't...'
...stop.
LAUGHTER
READS: Regret to advise...
...Bob Blair will be
bowling all day tomorrow.
SCATTERED LAUGHTER
TENSE SILENCE
< What is it, Bob?
DOOR CLOSES ♪
UNSETTLING MUSIC
OK. (EXHALES)
(BREATHES DEEPLY)
(EXHALES)
(GRUNTS)
MUSIC BUILDS
(GRUNTS)
No!
(WHIMPERS)
(GROANS)
(GROANS)
No. No.
MUSIC SWELLS
No. (BREATHES SHAKILY)
(SOBS)
MUSIC CONTINUES
QUEEN ELIZABETH: And now I want to
say something to my people in NZ.
Last night, a most grievous
railway accident took place
at Tangiwai,
which will have brought tragedy
into many homes and sorrow into
all upon this Christmas Day.
I know that there is no one
in NZ and indeed throughout
the Commonwealth
who will not join with my
husband and me in sending
to those who mourn
a message of sympathy
in their loss.
I pray that they, and all who have
been injured, may be comforted and
strengthened.
There's nothing I need to
say. This one's for Bob.
Good luck, chaps.
(EXHALES)
(SIGHS)
COMMENTATOR: The NZ team,
along with their nation,
are in mourning today, following
news of the most tragic train
accident in their homeland.
They are sporting black armbands
in acknowledgement of the disaster
and the loss of their
teammate Bob Blair's fiancee.
And they will be very determined
to play with pride for their
country in such sad circumstances.
And I'm sure I speak on behalf
of all South Africa, indeed,
the Commonwealth,
in sending our deepest condolences
to Bob Blair, who, understandably
in these circumstances,
has withdrawn from—
(TURNS WIRELESS OFF)
SOMBRE MUSIC
Yes, there's been a heavy dew
overnight, and the wicket is even
more lively than yesterday.
It's certainly very trying
conditions out there for the
NZ batsmen.
(GRUNTS)
CROWD GROANS
Oh. That hit him where it hurts.
(GRUNTS)
Oh, he's played on, beaten
by Adcock's pace and bounce.
Well, two wickets down already,
so NZ really needs John Reid to
dig in here.
Come on, then, you bastard.
CROWD GROANS
Didn't feel a bloody thing.
Adcock is getting extraordinary
bounce out of this pitch.
Urgh.
He really is almost unplayable.
CROWD GASPS
(GRUNTS)
Howzat!
CROWD CHEERS
This time he has him. He finally
managed to get bat on ball,
and he's caught behind
by the wicketkeeper.
And the NZers are
falling like flies.
MELANCHOLY MUSIC
MUSIC CONTINUES
Now Adcock, full of fire, charges
in to bowl to the left-hander
Sutcliffe.
Great ball. Great ball. ♪
This is NZ's best batsman.
Oh!
CROWD GASPS
Ooh, he's been hit!
He tried to hook, and he's been
hit on the side of the head.
(GROANS)
KNOCK AT DOOR
Come in.
Uh, excuse me, Mr Blair.
Sorry for disturbing you.
Nah, it's OK.
Name's Bob.
Yes. Bob. Would you like some lunch?
No, thank you. But I will get you
to call me a taxi. I'm going to head
out for a bit.
I'm sorry, Mr Bob. I'm
under strict instructions.
Would you like some lunch or
a drink from the bar, maybe?
No, thanks. I'm fine.
Adcock charges in with real venom.
It's short. Oh, he's been hit too!
Miller has been struck in the
chest, and another NZer has
fallen to the ground.
Piss off!
Well, the crowd don't like this.
The Kiwis are popular here, and
they've just suffered a terrible
tragedy back home.
And now they're risking life
and limb against this ferocious
attack.
DOORBELL RINGS ♪
DOOR OPENS ♪
DOOR SHUTS ♪
Bob's grandparents.
(SIGHS)
I know we haven't met, but
Jim was worried about you.
And... we just had to come.
TAP RUNS
WATER CONTINUES RUNNING
Here, for goodness sakes.
Let me do that.
Bill.
I'll turn the cricket on.
They must be almost underway.
No. No need.
Bob's not playing, anyhow.
All the same.
News from Brittendon is that both
Bert Sutcliffe and Lawrie Miller
have been taken to hospital,
and I don't think we'll see
them again in this innings.
< FAINT COMMENTARY FROM WIRELESS
I didn't want her to
marry your grandson.
Bob told us.
That's why she took off.
That's why she took that train.
That's why she—
Oh, no, love.
You can't take the blame for it.
It was just a terrible accident.
I should've let her marry him.
Your beliefs are important to
you, Mabel. I understand that.
No. It wasn't that.
I just didn't want to lose her.
(BREATHES SHAKILY)
I'd already lost one child, you see.
Oh, love.
Before Alec.
I had to give up my son.
(SOBS)
I couldn't look after him on my own.
And I swore then...
I'd never let another
child go. (SOBS)
You loved her.
She knew that.
(BREATHES SHAKILY)
I never said goodbye.
(SOBS)
Oh, Nessie, I never said goodbye.
MELANCHOLY MUSIC
E te tau ra, te mana, te tapu e.
He honore, he kororia...
ALL: ...he maungarongo
ki te whenua.
He whakaro pai ki nga
tangata katoa.
Amine.
E te atua
tahuri mai o taringa
ki a matou e inoi
atu nei i tenei ra, i tenei ra.
< Amine.
kia tapae atu i nga he, i nga
ahuatanga o tenei wabhi i runga
i to ingoa tapu,
whakakororia i to ingoa tapu. Amine.
TRANQUIL MUSIC
MUSIC CONTINUES
WATER LAPS
NZ is now a calamitous 57/5,
with two men hospitalised and
one withdrawn from the match.
DOOR OPENS
Jeez, I didn't expect to see
you fellas again. Welcome back.
How's life in the trenches?
We're down to our last two.
Tony's heading out.
(SIGHS)
What's going on?
Suttie's down there. He's got
a few stitches in his head.
What — he's not gonna
bat again, is he?
I think he's preparing himself.
(EXHALES)
TENSE MUSIC
CROWD ROARS OUTSIDE
(EXHALES)
Middle one.
(GRUNTS)
'HINE E HINE'
This is terribly courageous
of Bert Sutcliffe — to return
to the crease
after such a blow.
I think it's clear this is not
just about cricket for the NZers.
This is their response to
the terrible tragedy in their
homeland.
'HINE E HINE' CONTINUES
CROWD CHEERS
You beauty!
MUSIC CONTINUES
CROWD GASPS
Watch out!
Yes!
THWACK!
And the crowd love it!
The NZers are not giving up.
They're fighting to the very end.
And after what they've been
through, well, they've won this
crowd over.
Incredibly, Mooney and Sutcliffe
are only 20 runs short of the
follow-on target of 122.
Can they do it?
So Ironside runs in.
Oh, he's out! Mooney's been
clean-bowled! And with him
goes one of NZ's last hopes.
APPLAUSE
Stay with him, Guy.
He's doing something special.
We should go, Bill.
It's nearly over.
We may as well stay
for the last rites.
Oh, Alec.
I'm sorry. I didn't think.
Oh, he's chipped it to cover, and
this time, Murray takes the catch,
and Guy Overton is
out-bowled by Ironside.
That's that, then.
Aye.
The NZ resistance is finally
over — nine wickets down, one
man short.
Not enough runs on the ball.
APPLAUSE
REFLECTIVE MUSIC
APPLAUSE CEASES
I can't believe it.
Can it be...
Bob Blair?
Surely not.
It is.
MUSIC BUILDS
MUSIC CONTINUES
MUTTERS: You bloody beauty!
MUSIC QUIETENS
(BREATHES SHAKILY)
What the hell are you doing here?
I thought I could help.
But I can't see a bloody thing.
Just throw the bat at it, Bob. Let's
get the hell out of here. Come on.
(SNIFFS)
(EXHALES)
Blair faces.
CROWD: Oh!
That is the end of the over,
which will be a great relief
to the valiant Bob Blair.
Come on, Suttie!
Here comes Tayfield.
And he bowls.
Sutcliffe has smashed this
one. Oh, that's a massive six!
Into the stands... over long on.
And with that defiant blow,
Sutcliffe takes NZ past the
follow-on target,
thanks to the presence of that
lonely and terribly courageous
figure
at the other end of
the wicket, Bob Blair.
And in comes Tayfield again, and
Sutcliffe has gone after him, and
it's another towering shot.
Over mid-wicket this time
for another six runs.
Help me, Alec.
And Tayfield can only
look on in bewilderment.
PEACEFUL PIANO MUSIC
MUSIC CONTINUES
And Sutcliffe takes a single,
looking to keep strike for the
next over,
which means Blair
will face Tayfield.
That's 19 runs off
the over. One to come.
Blair faces Tayfield.
All eyes on the young man Blair.
(EXHALES, SNIFFS)
NERISSA: 'Hit a six for me.'
(SIGHS)
CROWD ROARS
CHEERING BUILDS
Yes!
There are no words to describe this
moment. Just listen to that crowd.
CROWD CHEERS, APPLAUDS
GIN WIGMORE'S 'STEALING HAPPINESS'
# Time means nothing
# when life means something.
# It's a game we always did play.
# So hush, bluebell baby,
# when you finally take me,
# I'll marry those
dreams right away.
# Tell me why all your good
reasons will fall from the trees
# on your shoulders just in faith.
# And I don't have the time,
but I'll keep you in mind for
days
# when blood turns to rain.
# And I'll love you tomorrow,
# but leave the same day.
# It's funny how
love works in vain.
# And I won't say a word,
but you'll know I've been hurt.
# White lines keep
burning my face.
# Tell me why all your good
reasons will fall from the trees
# on your shoulders
just in faith.
# And I don't have the time,
but I'll keep you in mind
# for a day when
blood turns to rain.
# Oh, but I won't wait in silence,
# for you're stealing
my happiness away.
# Oh, but I won't be a victim,
# for I've already caught
the death train.
# So swing me high
to bring me low.
#1 don't know how far to go.
# Oh, but I won't wait in silence,
# for you're stealing
my happiness away.
# Oh, but I won't be a victim,
# for I've already
caught the death train. #
NERISSA: "We mustn't wait for anyone
to give us permission to marry. It's
our life,
‘and we must show them that
we mean to be together... forever.
‘Let's get married the
moment you're back.
‘Let's not ever let anything stand
in our way again. I love you, my
darling.
'Oh, you've just got another wicket.
Could I be more proud of you?'
(SNIFFS)
(EXHALES)
Captions by June Yeow.
Captions were made possible
with funding from NZ On Air.
Copyright TVNZ Captioning 2011
WATER RIPPLES
WATER GURGLES
(SQUEALS)
(LAUGHS)
REFLECTIVE MUSIC CONTINUES
(PANTS)
Marry me.
MUSIC CRESCENDOES
MUSIC CONTINUES
(LAUGHS)
MUSIC CONTINUES
MAN LAUGHS
Hey, did he hold you under
the water till you were green?
Oh, he let me up for some air.
I should've proposed yesterday.
(LAUGHS) I'll take that as
congratulations. Thanks, Toki.
You getting married in
your grandfather's skirt?
I'll get married in a kilt, Toki,
if you give us a wee haka at the
wedding.
You're on.
CHUCKLES: Oh no.
My mother would faint.
(GRUNTS)
(LAUGHS)
And just what is going on here,
then? And why is Bob in his togs?
Eva, how would you like
to be my maid of honour?
BOTH SCREAM
Oh! I knew it!
Oh! Oh! Bob, about bloody time!
Are you still playing on Saturday?
Or are you getting married before
she changes her mind?
Oh, not likely. I wanna
do those Cantabs first.
Better put some clothes on, then.
BOTH LAUGH
Corpus Christi.
Amen.
Corpus Christi.
Amen.
Corpus Christi.
BAGPIPES PLAY 'SCOTLAND THE BRAVE'
BAGPIPES CONTINUE PLAYING
That bloody man.
To Bob and Nerissa.
ALL: Bob and Nerissa.
(GIGGLES)
Up yer kilts.
Nerissa Blair. Oh... Your dad will
be so pleased. And your mother.
You come along. You come
along and tell me all about it.
Don't suppose you got down on
one knee, the lazy beggar. Huh?
Is this him? ♪
Yes.
Which one?
(LAUGHS) Well, which
one do you think?
You don't deserve her, you know.
Says who?
You're a tinny bastard.
Eh?
You...
What about her folks?
Have you talked to them yet?
Yeah!
WHACK!
Good shot, Stan.
WHACK!
WHACK!
Well, I heard he had this thing
about Cantabrians, but that's just
barbaric.
Uh, he's a young fast
bowler, that's all.
We'll room in with you,
then, Bert, if he makes it.
Tell you what — if you don't take
Blair,... have a look-see at this
guy.
You're not serious? ♪
Well, it would set the cat among
the pigeons in South Africa,
wouldn't it?
LIVELY BIG-BAND MUSIC PLAYS
MUSIC CONTINUES PLAYING
(LAUGHS)
There you are.
Yeah. Thought I'd lost you.
Jim, this is Eva, Nerissa's friend.
They're getting hitched
and buggering to Auckland.
You can't go to Auckland. What
am I going to do without you?
Why don't you come to Auckland?
We can all live together.
I could never drag
Bob away from Petone.
Yeah, just like you can't drag Bob
to the dance floor. Come on, baby.
On your pegs.
You want a drink?
Nerissa.
I'm OK, thanks.
Thanks, Toki. Love to.
LIVELY MUSIC CONTINUES PLAYING
(LAUGHS)
I don't see a ring on that finger.
We'll get around to it.
MUSIC ENDS, AUDIENCE APPLAUDS
We're gonna bring it down a notch
now. Please welcome Rita May.
CHEERING, APPLAUSE
BAND PLAYS INTRO TO 'HINE E HINE'
Time's up, Toki.
# E tangi ana koe. ♪
# Hine e hine. #
'HINE E HINE' CONTINUES FAINTLY
(GASPS)
Bob, stop. I'm gonna explode.
What — you think
you're gonna explode?
Come on.
We can't.
Why not? We're engaged.
We'll be careful, OK?
THWACK!
How's the backseat bingo going?
(SIGHS)
Bugger off, Stan.
Tuning into the wireless.
Might hear your famous name.
Oh...
WIRELESS: It is my privilege
as the chairman of selectors
to announce the following
15-man squad to represent NZ
in the forthcoming tour of
South Africa and Australia.
Captain — GO Rabone,...
JEF Beck,...
RW Blair...
ALL CHEER
Well done, Bob.
Thank you.
Thanks, Jim.
Congratulations.
Well done, Bob.
Thanks, Eva.
Congratulations, Bob.
Oh, come on. Get out.
I knew you'd make it.
CUTLERY CLINKS
Right. Well, um, thank you,
Mrs Love. That was... That
was lovely.
You're welcome, Bob.
Plenty more.
Not for you.
We've actually got
something to announce.
Yes, we do.
Nerissa and I...
We're gonna get married!
KIDS LAUGH
SILENCE
You're too young.
I'm 19. You'd had me by this age.
Don't you get smart with me.
And he's not Catholic.
Well, that's hardly a first.
I'm sure Bob would do the right
thing by Nerissa.
How do you mean?
You can convert. I did.
It's no big deal.
No. No, actually, I'm afraid
I couldn't do that.
Don't you wanna get
married in a church?
Yeah, sure.
But I can't just become a Catholic.
Well, that's that, then.
I didn't think you were
like your grandfather.
Oh, for God's sake, I'm not like
my grandfather. But I can't just
convert.
Don't even know if I believe in God.
What do you believe in?
Me.
I'm going to be the greatest fast
bowler this country has ever seen,
and not because of God or fate or
saying the right prayers in the
right church,
but because I've worked hard.
I believe in myself.
CHURCH BELL TOLLS
Can't you just do
it for the wedding?
Why would you want to start
our lives together with a lie?
Nessie, come on. Don't do this.
Don't make me choose between you
and my beliefs.
Isn't that exactly
what you want me to do?
BELL CONTINUES TOLLING
(SIGHS)
TRAIN RUMBLES
CLATTERING
Whoo!
TRAIN RUMBLES IN DISTANCE
FAINT WHOOPING
(SPEAKS MAORI)
(SIGHS)
(SPEAKS MAORI)
You're home early. No wickets today?
No. 3/14. Plus two drop
catches and a plum LB.
A Blair is never happy with
anything short of perfection.
And on that note, I'd better take
me wee friends outside for walkies
before the nuns go in for dinner.
Why do you bother?
Eh?
Why don't you just leave them alone?
They're going to their church just
like you're going to yours.
Let me tell you something, lad.
We'll leave them alone the
day they leave us alone —
the day they stop trying to weasel
their papist ways on to us;
the day they stop trying to
convert our young people by
marriage to their high church
and then make them send their
children to Catholic schools
and join Catholic sports clubs
and work for Catholic businesses
to line the pockets at the pulpit!
(SIGHS) When that day comes, don't
worry, Bob, I'll be first in line to
leave the bloody Micks alone.
Ach. The nuns are never
late for their food.
TRANQUIL PIANO MUSIC
(SNARLS LOUDLY)
Bob, you scared me. God!
Careful. He might hear ya.
Got the flowers, I see.
They're beautiful.
Thank you.
So, we beat Canterbury.
I read about it.
Thought I might've seen you there.
Nessie, I'm sorry. Just...
I just want us to be together.
Me too.
Forever.
So, what do you think?
About what?
GENTLE MUSIC
(LAUGHS)
Oop.
Oop. (LAUGHS)
MUSIC CONTINUES
This is where we should get married.
It's not Catholic.
No, but it's ours.
We've met here so many lunchtimes,
after work. And you even tried to
take my pants off over there.
I did not try to
take your pants off.
What do you say?
I say you just wasted your money!
Why are you being so stubborn?
I'm being stubborn?!
Yes, you are.
You haven't changed your mind.
You're as bad as your grandfather
marching outside mass!
I am not asking you to marry my
grandfather, and I'm not trying
to marry your mother!
< Why are we even
talking about parents?
Because you have a chip on your
shoulder about this big about them!
It's Methodist!
Oh, for God's sake!
Bob! Bob!
Well, bugger you!
GENTLE PIANO MUSIC
Sorry.
MUSIC CONTINUES
< MEN ARGUE
Now, that's enough, all right?
Bugger you!
< LOUD SCUFFLING
Bob! Bob!
Bob!
Bob, stop it! I'm not
marrying a street fighter!
You what?
You heard me.
No, I thought you decided—
I was wrong.
You shouldn't have to change to
marry me. I'll be Catholic and...
you be whatever you are.
And if I have to marry
you under a street lamp—
(SCREAMS) Bob!
(LAUGHS)
You bloody bugger!
NERISSA SCREECHES
(CHUCKLES)
My parents split up when I was 2.
Where are they now?
MELANCHOLY MUSIC
Mum's in Karori.
Really?
Yeah.
We don't see her much these days.
My dad comes and goes —
you know, he does his best.
I'm sorry.
MUSIC CONTINUES
You're the first person
I'd ever needed.
MUSIC QUICKENS
MUSIC CONTINUES
What did you do with
the rest of them?
I gave them to someone.
Not a bloke?
(CHUCKLES)
No.
Well, I'll buy you some more.
I don't need flowers.
I will always buy
you flowers, Nessie.
Always.
Aye aye, captain.
Eva,...
Mm?
Have you and Stan,...
you know...
done it?
‘Course not.
(GASPS) Have you?!
Keep it down! Blimey!
‘Course we have, doll.
Haven't you?
No, I thought we had to wait.
You really are such a good little
convent girl, aren't you?
Not really.
BOYS LAUGH
(SIGHS)
You're horny!
I feel like a cat on heat. And Bob —
I wouldn't blame him if he ran off
with some South African girl.
So do it. You're engaged. Just...
don't do it in the back of a car.
It's torture.
Or sand, for that matter.
(GIGGLES) Chafing!
BOTH LAUGH
(SNORTS)
Ooh!
BOTH LAUGH
These earrings are a
bit much, do you think?
Whatever you say, doll.
I look like my mother.
You do not look—
My God, you do look like your
mother. What have you been doing?
I don't know. I kept adding more.
Oh!
JEWELLERY CLINKS
There. (LAUGHS)
Eva! Now I look like a call girl.
Oh!
DOORBELL RINGS
He's here!
(SIGHS)
Remember, just say yes,
even if you're not sure.
Yes.
Well, answer the door,
then. (GIGGLES) Bye!
Hello, Nessie.
Hello, Bob.
So they're not gonna be back
till tomorrow lunchtime?
< At the earliest.
< They're staying the night in town.
They'll have mass in the morning.
ow!
< CROCKERY CLATTERS
Do you need a hand out there?
No! Just... Coming.
So, what have you made for me?
Fish and chips?! How could she?
Who?
Eva. She told me it would be a
traditional Kiwi meal you'd love.
Why's Eva cooking the dinner?
Because...
I'm a terrible cook.
I can't boil an egg.
I burn toast. It's true.
I got an E for cooking, and the
report said, 'l pity the poor man
who ends up with Nerissa Love.'
Well,... I guess we shouldn't
get married, then.
Which is a shame, really, cos I've
just gone and forked out for this.
(GASPS, LAUGHS) Bob!
But now I know all of your secrets,
I think I've changed my mind.
Give me that ring! (LAUGHS)
Do you like it?
Put it on my finger.
I would happily live on fish and
chips forever... if it was with you.
(LAUGHS)
DAPHNE WALKER'S "WAIHI MOON'
PLAYS ON WIRELESS
# Waihi moon churning so bright,
# guide my love with your light.
# And brighten the way
# to my heart.
# As the surf graces the sand,
# tender hearts in lovers lane
# be as one... #
(PANTS)
(BREATHES DEEPLY)
What are you doing?
Can I chuck it out the window?
Yes.
SLOW, EMOTIVE MUSIC
MUSIC CONTINUES
(GASPS SOFTLY)
MUSIC CONTINUES
BIRDS CHIRP
< CAR PULLS UP
It's Dad's car.
Oh shit!
Come on! Hurry!
(GIGGLES)
(GROANS)
Mr and Mrs Love, I realise you're
quite worked up right now, but—
Given you a chance to get your
pants on. Now you can clear out.
Hold on. We are engaged.
Not as far as I'm
concerned, you're not.
Bob.
No, we haven't done anything wrong.
I know exactly what you've done.
And I'll tell you something for
nothing — you'll never do it again.
Clear out!
I saw your diddle!
It's a circus. And on a Sunday!
I love Nerissa. I just want
us to get married, that's all.
Then I suggest you walk out of
this house while you still can.
DOOR SLAMS
You little slut.
I wonder where I got that from.
(GASPS)
DOOR SLAMS
MELANCHOLY MUSIC
(SIGHS)
MUSIC CONTINUES
(SNIFFS)
(LAUGHS)
LAUGHS: No— No bull.
Completely starkers.
Mattress on my head,
hoofing it for the back door.
Well, now they'll know why
we call you ‘rabbit'.
I was followed by the full
nine yards from her old man.
Of course.
Hey, you know Eva's father had me up
against the wall with the old 303.
(MAKES SHOOTING NOISE)
You're kidding.
Damn bugger.
Almost as mad as his daughter.
How did you get him to agree
to a marriage after that?
Oh,...
got down on my knees and begged
him, you know. (FEIGNS CRYING)
Well, you can't blame him.
The hell I can't. They
don't own these girls.
Look, Nerissa's
their eldest daughter.
They had plans for her to marry
some nice St Pat's boy with a
silver spoon in his mouth,
not some... two-minute wonder
from Petone with deformed feet.
Hey! These are my war wounds.
Oh, they stink. I'm surprised
Nerissa came within cooee of
those things.
I'll have you know she loves
these feet. Especially this one.
Oh,... phwoar. Get outta here.
(LAUGHS)
Kia ora, Toki.
Morning.
Hey, you, um, you here
for the summer, Toke?
Yeah, thought I might
chaperone the Queen.
Thought you might
do something for me.
Last time I did you a favour,
Bob, I almost lost my job.
Yeah, but I looked great in
your guard's uniform, didn't 1?
(LAUGHS) You did.
Nah, it's just... Stan and Eva are
buggering off to Auckland, and I'm
gonna be away for quite a while.
Just... I'm worried that Nerissa's
gonna get a bit lonely. Was hoping
you could keep an eye out for her.
I'll do it for you, Bob.
Good on you.
Just one eye, mind.
(CHUCKLES)
INDISTINCT COMMENTARY ON WIRELESS
(RAPS ON GLASS)
Bob.
Mr Love, I wanted to come
and see you before I leave.
Just wanted to tell you that...
no matter what you might
think, I love Nerissa.
Now, I know I'm not what you
had in mind for a son-in-law.
I don't have any money,
I'm not a Catholic.
I can't do much except play cricket.
I'm just Bob Blair.
You've gotta start
somewhere, don't you?
TRANQUIL MUSIC
MUSIC CONTINUES
Bugger off, Overton. Not now.
You won't change your
mind while I'm away?
(SCOFFS) I think that's what
my parents are counting on.
FOGHORN BLOWS
We can still elope, Missy.
Come with us now.
What — elope and stowaway?
Yeah, I'd let you out
of the hold at midnight.
(CHUCKLES)
We'll sleep on the deck together.
Very romantic.
FOGHORN BLOWS
Just...
(CRIES)
Just... don't forget me, OK?
My darling...
GENTLE MUSIC
MUSIC CONTINUES
Hit a six for me.
SHIP RUMBLES
And Bob Blair's ripped out the
middle stump first ball of the Test.
What a moment for
the young fast bowler.
I was just checking it fitted.
Mooney's gang's on their way.
Oh shit!
Oh. Here's trouble.
What are you up to, rabbit?
Getting changed for dinner?
Not likely.
Listen, I've been thinking.
Shouldn't do that, Starlight.
That always ends badly.
This tour money we've all been given
— it's too much for each of us to be
carrying around.
Best idea is we make one
person responsible for the lot
and everyone just comes to them
to get however much they want.
And that just happens
to be you, does it?
You always have the tour
bank. Come on, Suttie.
I want it back in pounds,
not race tickets.
I guarantee customer satisfaction.
Right, rabbit. Young fella like
you — you'll be fleeced the moment
you arrive in Africa.
Yeah, OK. I just, um,
I don't have the full amount.
Crikey, what did you
do with the rest of it?
Well, I had my fiancee a ring.
Oh, rabbit. You're going to the
country with the cheapest diamonds
in the world.
She must be some girl.
Mm.
DRUMS BEAT RHYTHMICALLY
The drums of Fiji sound a welcome
to the Queen from across the seas.
Never before has a reigning
British monarch visited these
isles.
Today, Suva exults in
the spirit of empire.
SINGING
Tired though the Royal couple must
be after their strenuous day,
they delight the waiting crowd
with a personal touch, which
endears the Crown to the people.
Side by side, man and wife,
in all their happiness.
And while the Queen sails forth
to our shores for her much-awaited
Christmas visit,
the NZ cricket team are
arriving in sunny South Africa.
A large crowd has gathered at
the wharf to welcome the Kiwis.
It's Bob!
The captain, Geoff Rabone,
receives flowers from a couple
of Cape Town beauties.
No, he's gone.
Hey, go back! She wants
to see his ugly mug again.
Let's hope the team aren't
too distracted by this splendid
greeting
and keep their eye on the ball
in the upcoming Test series.
(WOLF WHISTLES)
Good luck, chaps, and here's
hoping for an elusive first-Test
victory
so we can kiss that
losing streak goodbye.
ENDING MUSIC PLAYS
Hold on tight. I only
have Maori brakes.
What are those?
My feet!
(LAUGHS)
SCOOTER RUMBLES
< Thanks.
OK, Suttie.
Bogo.
Bones.
Bones.
Bones again.
Ah, Skip. Salty.
Oh, bad luck. Here's another one.
ALL LAUGH
And Chaps. Dive.
ALL: Oh!
That's it, lads. ♪
Oh, that's right. Rabbit...
there's one for you.
Unless you count these ones.
ALL LAUGH
Mm. Darling. 'Dear Bob Bunny, can't
wait to feel your furriness against
me, your long hard... ears.'
ALL LAUGH
Cut it out.
OK, lads. Rooms are
ready. Moving out.
Don't read them all at once, rabbit.
Don't want you to go blind.
Oh, hey, I've got that.
Here, I'll take it. Thanks.
407.
BOB: 'Well, Ness, certainly a bit
different over here, and I wish you
could be here to see it with me.
‘Every day it's more travelling,
sightseeing, dinners, dances, and
now and then a bit of cricket.'
CRICKETERS SING: # ...and
it's gone right to my head.
# Wherever I may roam...
'We've given old Overton a hard time
with his fancy camera everywhere,
‘but I reckon we'll be lining up
to watch it when we get back,
‘cos you couldn't put
all of this into words.'
# Show me the way to go home.
# But I never wanna go to bed.
# I had a little drink about an
hour ago, and it's gone right to
my head.
# Wherever I may roam,
# on land or sea or foam,
# You'll always hear
me singing this song.
# Show me the way to go home. #
‘Despite all the fun and games here,
Ness, you're on my mind morning,
noon and night.
'How about you come to Auckland
to meet us off the ship?
"You could stay with Stan and Eva.
We could have a few days together
before we face the music.
"Think about it, eh? Your
poor, patient fiance, Bob.'
(SIGHS)
WOMAN LAUGHS ♪
MAN: Wrong room, Starlight.
Sorry about that. ♪
DOOR SLAMS
< RAUCOUS LAUGHTER
Starlight, open up.
< LOUD SHUSHING
Hey, rabbit. What's going on?
Oh, Salty and I are just engaging in
a bit of early morning calisthenics.
Care to join us?
No, no. I need some money.
Now?
Yeah. £20.
WOMAN LAUGHS
LOUD SHUSHING
LAUGHTER
Bob says secretly they hope
they lose the toss and bowl first.
Rabone has lost five tosses in
a row, so that shouldn't be hard.
If you don't fix the wireless,
we're all going to miss the Queen's
message tomorrow.
All right. All right.
I've got a list as long as my arm
to get through today. Go on. Off
you go.
Thank you.
Don't think you're going to spend
Christmas Eve with your feet up.
DOORBELL RINGS
Oh! Who's that?
I'll get it.
DOOR CLOSES ♪
They're for you, Ness. From Bob.
Oh, no.
MUTTERS: Oh yes.
Go on. Off you go.
Isn't he just the most romantic
man in the world? (CHUCKLES)
38 letters he's sent me — one every
day he's been on the ship and since
they've arrived. And now these!
Do you know he was on the cover
of Cape News? It's a South African
newspaper — a big photo just of Bob.
They went on a safari, where they
saw elephants and giraffes in the
wild, and a dance show one night,
where the whole crowd clapped
them just for sitting down!
Well, bully for them.
What do you mean, 'bully for them'?
Bob this, Bob that.
He's all hair oil and no socks.
He's your future son-in-law.
You should be proud.
He's not my future son-in-law.
Yes, he is.
And I'll be 20 in a month, and we'll
do it without you if we have to.
Oh yes? And how do you keep a roof
over your head with him gallivanting
around,
being clapped for
sitting on his chuff?
We'll make a go of it.
OK, that's enough! Just leave it.
Both of you.
Dad, you like Bob. I know you do.
If he cared about you, he'd
marry you in a Catholic church.
Not everyone's like you.
Not everyone rolls over
and pretends to believe
a whole lot of things
because their wife does!
You leave Dad out of it!
You're not marrying outside the
Catholic church, and that's the
end to it!
Why can't you just be happy for
me? I love him and he loves me.
Do you know what it's like to want
to be with someone that loves you?!
That's enough!
You can't even hear it,
you're so dried up and bitter!
Nerissa!
You made your choices, Mum,
and now I'm gonna make mine.
DOOR OPENS, SLAMS ♪
DRAMATIC MUSIC
(SNIFFS)
I'm going to Auckland.
I'm going to stay with Eva, and
when Bob gets back, we're gonna
get married.
I'm not fighting with
you about this any more.
MELANCHOLY MUSIC
< DOOR SHUTS
MUSIC CONTINUES
Nerissa! Nerissa!
(PANTS)
She just wants what's best for you.
She's not gonna change her mind.
(PANTS) Like mother
like daughter, Nessie.
Merry Christmas, Dad.
Nessie,...
Merry Christmas, love.
(SIGHS)
What do you want?
(SIGHS)
TINKLING MUSIC PLAYS
MUSIC CONTINUES
MUSIC STOPS ABRUPTLY
# Joyful and triumphant...
Oh!
#0, come, ye... #
Nerissa?
Thank you, sweetheart.
And I thought Santa
hadn't gotten my letter.
Toki.
TRAIN TOOTS
Come with me.
There's only one catch — you have
to pretend you bought a first-class
ticket.
OK.
And you have to marry me.
That's two catches.
Well, you know I can't count.
WHISTLE BLOWS
TRAIN TOOTS
TRAIN CHUFFS
There you go, ma'am. E noho.
This is Miss Nerissa Love. She'll be
travelling through to Auckland with
us.
I'm Delia Holman. This
is my husband, John.
Hello.
Pleased to meet you.
Nerissa here is engaged to
Bob Blair, the NZ cricketer.
See the beautiful ring
he finally bought her.
Congratulations.
Well, we're honoured.
First Test starts
tonight, doesn't it? ♪
Indeed it does.
Now, were you the gentlemen who
wanted a sly scotch every time a
wicket fell?
That sounds like a
most patriotic idea.
I will see you shortly, then.
TRAIN CHUGS
(SPEAKS MAORI)
(SPEAKS MAORI)
(SPEAKS MAORI)
(SPEAKS MAORI)
STATIC BUZZES
Come on, Jim. What's
the matter with ya?
Another beer might help.
Oh, ah, ah, ah!
COMMENTATOR SPEAKS
Righty-ho. (SIGHS)
There you go. Peel those if
you're going to sit here all night.
Oh, Em. Come on.
Oh, stop! Oh!
Sit down and listen to your
grandson bowl for his country!
What better Christmas
present could you have, huh?
(SIGHS)
Pass me a beer, then, Jim.
Might as well wet my whistle.
(LAUGHS) ♪
COMMENTATOR: He delivers...
It's short.
THINKS: 'Dear Bob, today you've been
out on the field bowling your heart
out
‘and I've been back
here crying mine out.
‘Don't worry, my love. I realise
now you've been right all along.
'We mustn't wait for
anyone's permission to marry.
‘It's our life, and we must show
them that we mean to be together
forever.'
South Africa are one wicket down,
thanks to Mr Bob Blair from Petone!
ALL CHEER
I feel like I know him personally.
< I'll have to add
that to the letter.
'Well done, from John and Delia, who
don't know you from a bar of soap.'
More South African wickets!
Hear, hear!
(GROANS, LAUGHS)
When you're done, I could put that
with the post in Taihape, if you
like.
Thanks, Toki.
TRAIN CHUGS
Thought you were going to wear
a red suit tonight, Bill.
Nah, leaving that for the wife.
She looks even more
the part. Ho, ho, ho.
(LAUGHS)
(LAUGHS) Need to get in
the festive spirit, Charlie.
Yeah, don't tell me I've got you on
board. Haven't you got a home to go
to?
You're all the family
I need,... Dad.
Ai-ai-ai. (LAUGHS) Get out of it!
BIRD HOOTS
BIRD TRILLS
TRAIN RUMBLES IN DISTANCE
(BLOWS WHISTLE)
Right, you're all clear, Charlie.
Good-oh. Merry Christmas, Bill.
Merry Christmas. ♪
TRAIN TOOTS
UNSETTLING MUSIC
MUSIC CONTINUES
TRAIN RUMBLES LOUDLY
Cyril.
TYRES SCREECH
DRAMATIC MUSIC
WAVES CRASH
Holy hell.
WAVES CRASH
< TRAIN TOOTS
Torch! Torch!
MUSIC BUILDS
Hey! Hey, stop!
No! Stop the train!
Stop it!
You see that? Up there.
CYRIL: Stop the train!
Stop!
DRAMATIC MUSIC
Stop the train!
Stop the fucking train!
TRAIN TOOTS
CRASH!
CARRIAGE RUMBLES,
PASSENGERS CRY OUT
WAVES ROAR, PEOPLE SCREAM
LOUD CREAKING, PASSENGERS SCREAM
What happened?
You need to get out
of this carriage now!
Just come out!
This way, please!
Come on! Just hurry! ♪
Come this way! ♪
CARRIAGE CREAKS
Don't worry about your things.
Just come out, please!
ALL TALK AT ONCE
CARRIAGE CREAKS, NERISSA SCREAMS
CRASH!
SCREAMING
MUFFLED SCREAMS
WAVES CRASH
MUFFLED SCREAMS
CYRIL: Window!
Get this window open!
PANICKED SCREAMS
Hurry!
Down this end!
WAVES CRASH, PASSENGERS SCREAM
All right! Keep coming! Keep coming!
TOKI: Nerissa!
Who's next?
Nerissa!
Nerissa! Nerissa!
Nerissa!
< We need a torch out here!
Here you go!
No! Not yet! Nerissa!
No!
No, we can't leave her!
There's no one there! Come on!
Nerissa!
MEN HEAVE
ETHEREAL SINGING: # O holy night,
the stars are brightly shining.
# It is the night of
the dear Saviour's birth.
# Long lay the world
in sin and error pining,
# till He appeared and
the soul felt its worth.
# A thrill of hope,
# the weary world rejoices,
# for yonder breaks a
new and glorious morn.
APPLAUSE
# Fall on your knees.
WOMAN: Bob! ♪
# O hear the angels' voices.
# O night divine.
# O night when Christ was born.
# O night divine
# O night
# O night divine.
SPLASH!
Nerissa!
# With glowing hearts
by his cradle we stand.
(GASPS)
She's alive!
Help, please!
# ...of a star sweetly gleaming,
# Here came the wise
men from the Orient land.
# Truly, he taught us
to love one another.
(GRUNTS)
# ...and his gospel is peace.
God.
< SOTTO VOCE: Oh God. God.
# ...for the slave is our brother.
(SOBS)
(SOBS)
Help!
# Sweet hymns of joy in
grateful chorus raise we.
SCREAMS: Help me!
# Let all within us
praise His holy name.
# Christ is the Lord.
# Then ever, ever praise we.
Aue!
# His power and glory
# evermore proclaim.
(SOBS)
# His power and glory
# evermore proclaim. #
(SOBS)
(MURMURS)
(SOBS)
(WHISTLES)
CHRISTMAS MUSIC
PLAYS ON WIRELESS ♪
Whoo-hoo!
Any sign of her?
Nah. Thought maybe
she changed her mind.
(LAUGHS)
WIRELESS: We interrupt this
broadcast to play an important—
Wasn't a waste of a trip.
...from the prime minster,
Sydney Holland.
SYDNEY HOLLAND: It is with
profound regret that I have
to announce
that a most serious railway
accident has occurred to the
3pm express
travelling from Wellington to
Auckland. The disaster occurred
at 10.21pm last night.
It appears the walls of the Crater
Lake on Mt Ruapehu collapsed,
causing a flash flood that
destroyed the rail bridge at
Tangiwai. T-A-N-G-I-W-A-l.
I deeply regret to say that this
is the most disastrous railway
accident in NZ's history,
and unfortunately it has been
attended by appalling loss of
life.
At the time of the disaster,
there were 267 passengers.
Of this number, only 103 have
so far been accounted for.
SOLEMN MUSIC
< SOLDIER: Left, right! Left, right!
He's got a daughter in the
crash. We're trying to find out—
Uh, name?
Love. Nerissa Love.
PAPER RUSTLES
She's there?
(SIGHS) I'm sorry.
(GASPS)
You'll need to identify her. ♪
You all right?
SHAKILY: I don't think
I can do this, Jim.
(SIGHS)
SOLEMN MUSIC
MUSIC CONTINUES
Jim.
She's over here.
MUSIC CONTINUES
ALL LAUGH
All right. (READS) Um, Merry
Christmas to John and all the
team. Love, the Beck family.
Salty. Who would've
thought you had a mother?
LAUGHTER
Ah, this one's from WA Hadley.
Ah, the A will cost
him another pound.
LAUGHTER
READS: 'Great effort yesterday.'
Oh, stop.
‘Enjoy rest today.'
Stop.
‘Finish job tomorrow.' ♪
ALL: Yes. Yeah, yes.
Ah, thanks.
< MOONEY: Open it up. Open it up.
Ah, it's addressed to me.
'My darling Bob, please don't...'
...stop.
LAUGHTER
READS: Regret to advise...
...Bob Blair will be
bowling all day tomorrow.
SCATTERED LAUGHTER
TENSE SILENCE
< What is it, Bob?
DOOR CLOSES ♪
UNSETTLING MUSIC
OK. (EXHALES)
(BREATHES DEEPLY)
(EXHALES)
(GRUNTS)
MUSIC BUILDS
(GRUNTS)
No!
(WHIMPERS)
(GROANS)
(GROANS)
No. No.
MUSIC SWELLS
No. (BREATHES SHAKILY)
(SOBS)
MUSIC CONTINUES
QUEEN ELIZABETH: And now I want to
say something to my people in NZ.
Last night, a most grievous
railway accident took place
at Tangiwai,
which will have brought tragedy
into many homes and sorrow into
all upon this Christmas Day.
I know that there is no one
in NZ and indeed throughout
the Commonwealth
who will not join with my
husband and me in sending
to those who mourn
a message of sympathy
in their loss.
I pray that they, and all who have
been injured, may be comforted and
strengthened.
There's nothing I need to
say. This one's for Bob.
Good luck, chaps.
(EXHALES)
(SIGHS)
COMMENTATOR: The NZ team,
along with their nation,
are in mourning today, following
news of the most tragic train
accident in their homeland.
They are sporting black armbands
in acknowledgement of the disaster
and the loss of their
teammate Bob Blair's fiancee.
And they will be very determined
to play with pride for their
country in such sad circumstances.
And I'm sure I speak on behalf
of all South Africa, indeed,
the Commonwealth,
in sending our deepest condolences
to Bob Blair, who, understandably
in these circumstances,
has withdrawn from—
(TURNS WIRELESS OFF)
SOMBRE MUSIC
Yes, there's been a heavy dew
overnight, and the wicket is even
more lively than yesterday.
It's certainly very trying
conditions out there for the
NZ batsmen.
(GRUNTS)
CROWD GROANS
Oh. That hit him where it hurts.
(GRUNTS)
Oh, he's played on, beaten
by Adcock's pace and bounce.
Well, two wickets down already,
so NZ really needs John Reid to
dig in here.
Come on, then, you bastard.
CROWD GROANS
Didn't feel a bloody thing.
Adcock is getting extraordinary
bounce out of this pitch.
Urgh.
He really is almost unplayable.
CROWD GASPS
(GRUNTS)
Howzat!
CROWD CHEERS
This time he has him. He finally
managed to get bat on ball,
and he's caught behind
by the wicketkeeper.
And the NZers are
falling like flies.
MELANCHOLY MUSIC
MUSIC CONTINUES
Now Adcock, full of fire, charges
in to bowl to the left-hander
Sutcliffe.
Great ball. Great ball. ♪
This is NZ's best batsman.
Oh!
CROWD GASPS
Ooh, he's been hit!
He tried to hook, and he's been
hit on the side of the head.
(GROANS)
KNOCK AT DOOR
Come in.
Uh, excuse me, Mr Blair.
Sorry for disturbing you.
Nah, it's OK.
Name's Bob.
Yes. Bob. Would you like some lunch?
No, thank you. But I will get you
to call me a taxi. I'm going to head
out for a bit.
I'm sorry, Mr Bob. I'm
under strict instructions.
Would you like some lunch or
a drink from the bar, maybe?
No, thanks. I'm fine.
Adcock charges in with real venom.
It's short. Oh, he's been hit too!
Miller has been struck in the
chest, and another NZer has
fallen to the ground.
Piss off!
Well, the crowd don't like this.
The Kiwis are popular here, and
they've just suffered a terrible
tragedy back home.
And now they're risking life
and limb against this ferocious
attack.
DOORBELL RINGS ♪
DOOR OPENS ♪
DOOR SHUTS ♪
Bob's grandparents.
(SIGHS)
I know we haven't met, but
Jim was worried about you.
And... we just had to come.
TAP RUNS
WATER CONTINUES RUNNING
Here, for goodness sakes.
Let me do that.
Bill.
I'll turn the cricket on.
They must be almost underway.
No. No need.
Bob's not playing, anyhow.
All the same.
News from Brittendon is that both
Bert Sutcliffe and Lawrie Miller
have been taken to hospital,
and I don't think we'll see
them again in this innings.
< FAINT COMMENTARY FROM WIRELESS
I didn't want her to
marry your grandson.
Bob told us.
That's why she took off.
That's why she took that train.
That's why she—
Oh, no, love.
You can't take the blame for it.
It was just a terrible accident.
I should've let her marry him.
Your beliefs are important to
you, Mabel. I understand that.
No. It wasn't that.
I just didn't want to lose her.
(BREATHES SHAKILY)
I'd already lost one child, you see.
Oh, love.
Before Alec.
I had to give up my son.
(SOBS)
I couldn't look after him on my own.
And I swore then...
I'd never let another
child go. (SOBS)
You loved her.
She knew that.
(BREATHES SHAKILY)
I never said goodbye.
(SOBS)
Oh, Nessie, I never said goodbye.
MELANCHOLY MUSIC
E te tau ra, te mana, te tapu e.
He honore, he kororia...
ALL: ...he maungarongo
ki te whenua.
He whakaro pai ki nga
tangata katoa.
Amine.
E te atua
tahuri mai o taringa
ki a matou e inoi
atu nei i tenei ra, i tenei ra.
< Amine.
kia tapae atu i nga he, i nga
ahuatanga o tenei wabhi i runga
i to ingoa tapu,
whakakororia i to ingoa tapu. Amine.
TRANQUIL MUSIC
MUSIC CONTINUES
WATER LAPS
NZ is now a calamitous 57/5,
with two men hospitalised and
one withdrawn from the match.
DOOR OPENS
Jeez, I didn't expect to see
you fellas again. Welcome back.
How's life in the trenches?
We're down to our last two.
Tony's heading out.
(SIGHS)
What's going on?
Suttie's down there. He's got
a few stitches in his head.
What — he's not gonna
bat again, is he?
I think he's preparing himself.
(EXHALES)
TENSE MUSIC
CROWD ROARS OUTSIDE
(EXHALES)
Middle one.
(GRUNTS)
'HINE E HINE'
This is terribly courageous
of Bert Sutcliffe — to return
to the crease
after such a blow.
I think it's clear this is not
just about cricket for the NZers.
This is their response to
the terrible tragedy in their
homeland.
'HINE E HINE' CONTINUES
CROWD CHEERS
You beauty!
MUSIC CONTINUES
CROWD GASPS
Watch out!
Yes!
THWACK!
And the crowd love it!
The NZers are not giving up.
They're fighting to the very end.
And after what they've been
through, well, they've won this
crowd over.
Incredibly, Mooney and Sutcliffe
are only 20 runs short of the
follow-on target of 122.
Can they do it?
So Ironside runs in.
Oh, he's out! Mooney's been
clean-bowled! And with him
goes one of NZ's last hopes.
APPLAUSE
Stay with him, Guy.
He's doing something special.
We should go, Bill.
It's nearly over.
We may as well stay
for the last rites.
Oh, Alec.
I'm sorry. I didn't think.
Oh, he's chipped it to cover, and
this time, Murray takes the catch,
and Guy Overton is
out-bowled by Ironside.
That's that, then.
Aye.
The NZ resistance is finally
over — nine wickets down, one
man short.
Not enough runs on the ball.
APPLAUSE
REFLECTIVE MUSIC
APPLAUSE CEASES
I can't believe it.
Can it be...
Bob Blair?
Surely not.
It is.
MUSIC BUILDS
MUSIC CONTINUES
MUTTERS: You bloody beauty!
MUSIC QUIETENS
(BREATHES SHAKILY)
What the hell are you doing here?
I thought I could help.
But I can't see a bloody thing.
Just throw the bat at it, Bob. Let's
get the hell out of here. Come on.
(SNIFFS)
(EXHALES)
Blair faces.
CROWD: Oh!
That is the end of the over,
which will be a great relief
to the valiant Bob Blair.
Come on, Suttie!
Here comes Tayfield.
And he bowls.
Sutcliffe has smashed this
one. Oh, that's a massive six!
Into the stands... over long on.
And with that defiant blow,
Sutcliffe takes NZ past the
follow-on target,
thanks to the presence of that
lonely and terribly courageous
figure
at the other end of
the wicket, Bob Blair.
And in comes Tayfield again, and
Sutcliffe has gone after him, and
it's another towering shot.
Over mid-wicket this time
for another six runs.
Help me, Alec.
And Tayfield can only
look on in bewilderment.
PEACEFUL PIANO MUSIC
MUSIC CONTINUES
And Sutcliffe takes a single,
looking to keep strike for the
next over,
which means Blair
will face Tayfield.
That's 19 runs off
the over. One to come.
Blair faces Tayfield.
All eyes on the young man Blair.
(EXHALES, SNIFFS)
NERISSA: 'Hit a six for me.'
(SIGHS)
CROWD ROARS
CHEERING BUILDS
Yes!
There are no words to describe this
moment. Just listen to that crowd.
CROWD CHEERS, APPLAUDS
GIN WIGMORE'S 'STEALING HAPPINESS'
# Time means nothing
# when life means something.
# It's a game we always did play.
# So hush, bluebell baby,
# when you finally take me,
# I'll marry those
dreams right away.
# Tell me why all your good
reasons will fall from the trees
# on your shoulders just in faith.
# And I don't have the time,
but I'll keep you in mind for
days
# when blood turns to rain.
# And I'll love you tomorrow,
# but leave the same day.
# It's funny how
love works in vain.
# And I won't say a word,
but you'll know I've been hurt.
# White lines keep
burning my face.
# Tell me why all your good
reasons will fall from the trees
# on your shoulders
just in faith.
# And I don't have the time,
but I'll keep you in mind
# for a day when
blood turns to rain.
# Oh, but I won't wait in silence,
# for you're stealing
my happiness away.
# Oh, but I won't be a victim,
# for I've already caught
the death train.
# So swing me high
to bring me low.
#1 don't know how far to go.
# Oh, but I won't wait in silence,
# for you're stealing
my happiness away.
# Oh, but I won't be a victim,
# for I've already
caught the death train. #
NERISSA: "We mustn't wait for anyone
to give us permission to marry. It's
our life,
‘and we must show them that
we mean to be together... forever.
‘Let's get married the
moment you're back.
‘Let's not ever let anything stand
in our way again. I love you, my
darling.
'Oh, you've just got another wicket.
Could I be more proud of you?'
(SNIFFS)
(EXHALES)
Captions by June Yeow.
Captions were made possible
with funding from NZ On Air.
Copyright TVNZ Captioning 2011