The Mortal Storm (1940) - full transcript

When man was new upon the Earth...

he was frightened by
the dangers of the elements.

He cried out,
"The Gods of the lightning are angry

and I must kill my fellow man
to appease them!"

As man grew older,

he created shelters
against the wind and the rain

and made harmless
the force of the lightning.

But within man himself
were elements strong as the wind

and terrible as the lightning.

And he denied the existence
of these elements

because he dared not face them.



The tale we are about to tell
is of the mortal storm

in which man finds himself today.

Again, he is crying,
"I must kill my fellow man!"

Our story asks,

"How soon will man find wisdom
in his heart

and build a lasting shelter
against his ignorant fears?"

- Good morning.
- Good morning.

- Good morning, Herman.
- Good morning. Good morning.

- Good morning. Good morning.
- Good morning.

You don't have to tell me what day it is.

It's the Herr Professor's birthday.

Look at all the mail,
twice as much as last year.

My goodness, yes,
and this is just the beginning.

Ja. Oh, give him
my best respects, will you?



- I will, Herman, I will.
- Yeah. Good morning.

Good morning.

It's the post for professor. Just look.

There must be 50 letters.

I'll take them, Marta.

And the packages, more than last year.

And the telegrams
have been coming all day long.

I tell you, I'm so excited.

Are all the children down, Marta?

- All but Rudi.
- Oh, that child, I'll call him.

And--and Herman says to give
the professor his best respect.

That's very kind. I'll tell him.

Rudi, you'll be late, dear.

Half a minute, mother.

What was wrong with
your breakfast, Viktor?

Oh, nothing, nothing.
I enjoyed it very much.

You haven't touched a thing.

Come here this minute and sit down.

Well, well, well,
what do you think of that?

Would you butter me a roll please, dear?

- What's all this?
- The mail.

- What, all for me?
- Uh-huh.

Thank you.

You look very smart today.

Mm, it's January 30th.

Do you recall anything
that happened on that date?

Well, I--

- I was born.
- Right.

Good heavens, I'm 60.

Many happy returns of the day, darling.

You love me still?

Go on, eat your breakfast.

If you hadn't stuffed me so,

I might still have my youthful figure.

You'll do.

- Good morning, boys.
- Good morning, mother.

See that your father eats his breakfast.

I'm going to collect his notes.

All right. Many happy returns, Father.

Happy birthday, Father. A volume apiece.

Well, thank you.

Oh, Neumann's new book.

Just what I've been wanting.

You've written in it.
Where are my glasses?

Oh, it's nothing. Just,
"To our dear father with affection."

Oh, nothing, that's...

that's very much.

You know, you boys have
made me forget that

unfortunately, I'm only your stepfather.

- Well, it makes us very happy, Father.
- You're a real father to us.

You've been just like
my own children to me.

Well, speaking of the angels...

Good morning, Father,
and a very happy birthday.

- Many happy returns.
- Thank you.

They're pear drops, sir.
They're awfully good.

Oh, thank you.

- Will you have one?
- Oh, don't mind if I do.

I'll have to go, Father,
or I'll be late for school.

I'll walk with you as far as
the square. Goodbye, Father.

- Yes. Goodbye, boys.
- See you later.

No, thank you.

What's that, for me?

Don't be so impatient.

Drink your coffee, I'll open it for you.

Do you like it?

Oh, that's wonderful.

Let me put it on you.

Oh, you look very beautiful and brainy.

And I'm very, very proud of you.

I'm overwhelmed.

Viktor. You'll be late, dear.

Oh, yes, I--

And your notes are in your inside pocket.

Don't forget to take them to class.

No, I won't. Goodbye.

Goodbye!

He hasn't eaten a thing.

We must hurry.

Marta, have you the professor's rubbers?

Yes, I have them here.

Don't go without them, dear.

No, no, dear. I won't, I won't.

- Good morning.
- Good morning, professor.

- Good morning.
- Good morning, professor.

Ah. Good morning, Lehman. Good morning.

Good morning, Herr Professor.

- Yeah.
- It's a cold day.

Yes, yes, it's cold, but it's sunny.

I, uh, I find it a very good day.

Hmm, you're not rheumatic.

No, no, no, I feel pretty fit...

for 60.

Well, don't go into class

in your wet rubbers.

Uh, well, certainly not.

You did last Friday.

Yes, so you say, Lehman, so you say.

The absent-minded professor,

a character in fiction, my good friend.

- What?
- And the other rubber?

Good morning, Rector.

- Oh, good morning, professor.
- Good morning, professor.

- Good morning.
- Good morning, professor.

Well, it's a fine day.

It's cold, but sunny.

I'm late, I had a little trouble
getting away

from home this morning.

It must be past nine.

Nine-three precisely.

Yeah, well, carpe diem, I must go to work.

Yes, it is the 30th of January, isn't it?

January 30th, yes.

Yeah, I thought so.

Well...

Professor?

Yeah, uh...

What's your hurry?

Oh, no, no hurry.

Though I would like to get through

in good time today.

So would I.

Well, you see, this is rather an occasion.

It is? Well, you picked a fine day for it.

Yeah, well, I'll see you later.

Silentio.

Silentio.

Fritz Marberg.

Martin Breitner.

Herr Professor, we, your students,

offer you our hearty congratulations
on your anniversary.

We appreciate the privilege
of working under your guidance

and we are proud of the honor
that your accomplishments

have won for our university
and our fatherland.

Professor Roth

as a mere candidatus medicina veterinarii,

uh, in plain language, horse doctor.

I, uh...

I, uh, have not had the good fortune

of attending your classes.

I had a few notes here someplace.
Seem to have gotten away from me.

Well, I-I got in on these doings

because I have had the rare privilege
of your friendship

for the best part of my life.

And I'm proud to offer you this...

uh, oh, this little affair here

in the name of your class.

And I, I noticed that it says here,
"It comes to you

with the admiration and
affection of your students."

And that goes for every man
and girl in this university.

Well, here it is, sir.

My dear young people, my colleagues,

thank you.

I... I have a confession to make.

I thought that my anniversary
had been forgotten

and, uh, I was trying to persuade myself

that I didn't very much care,
but I did, I was quite put out.

So, you will understand
how deeply touched I am

and how grateful for
this expression of your affection

that I reciprocate with all my heart.

I thank you for your beautiful gift.

It shows me, this splendid torchbearer,

that you have understood
what I have tried to impart.

And that into your
young hands will be given

the torch of science when it has fallen

from the hands of your masters.

I sincerely pray that
you will carry it worthily.

I thank you, Fritz Marberg,
for your kind address.

And you, Martin Breitner,

for your very delightful presentation.

But before I lay
this flattering unction to my soul,

I must ask myself whether
your eagerness to do me homage

might have not have some
slight connection with the fact

that I have a not unattractive daughter.

However that may be, I thank you both.

I thank you all.

Fritz, what are you doing out here?

This.

No, you mustn't, not now.

I want to announce our engagement.

Oh, you're crazy, we're too young,

we're still in college.

I know all the buts and all the answers.

No, I have to have time to think it over.

I'll do all the thinking. Madame.

Happy birthday, Father.

Six candles, one for each decade
of a wonderful life.

Oh, thank you.

Now, blow them out and make a wish.

Yes, blow hard.

Your wish won't come true
unless you blow them all out at once.

For what? I have so much
and I should ask for more?

It's been my privilege
to let loose a little knowledge

in this world, and for that
I have been amply rewarded.

I, uh, I think I've done
rather well for myself

in the choice of a life partner.

Not that I had any say in the matter.

My children are handsome and clever.

Bravo! Bravo!

We are a very united family.

In this home, we've had
the habit of gracious living.

We've prided ourselves on our tolerance

and our sense of humor.

Good heavens,
here I am making another speech.

Well, I can think of
no better wish than this.

May our happiness continue
as long as we live.

Sweet.

A toast, a toast!

- Yeah.
- A toast.

To the health of our distinguished host.

- Prosit.
- Prosit.

- Darling.
- Oh, dear.

Thank you. Thank you, my dear.

Professor, I hope you'll excuse me
if I steal a little of your spotlight,

but I have news.

- News?
- Come on, Fritz.

Mrs. Roth, professor...

It's no good tugging at my coat.

Freya has promised to love,
honor and obey.

- Engaged!
- No, I didn't.

Oh, really, please,
I haven't made up my mind yet.

- I'll do that for you, darling.
- Fritz, you're crazy.

- Put her in her place.
- You have our consent.

- Give in, darling, I'll wait.
- Father, what do you think?

That is, a reasonable length of time.

You know, you're rushing me
right off my feet.

Mother, what do you think?
Should I let him get away with it?

Well, are you happy, dear?

Yes, I think so.

- Congratulations.
- Thank you, Rudi.

- My boy.
- Professor.

Herr Professor and Frau Professor

something wonderful has happened.

We have just heard,
they have made Adolf Hitler

chancellor of Germany.

Why, that's stupendous!

- If it's true.
- Is it official?

It is true. It is official.

It's coming in on all the stations.

- Let's find out.
- Let's get the radio.

Yes, come on.

Adolf Hitler chancellor?

And appointed by Hindenburg?

- What can he be thinking of?
- There it is.

The news swept
the capital like wildfire.

The delirious frenzy of
the people defies description.

Thousands of men and women are gathered

outside the chancellery,
they've waited here for hours

hoping for a glimpse of our great leader,

our new chancellor.

Wait, the door of the chancellor's office
is opening,

he's coming out, our leader...

- Sieg Heil!
- ...the people.

He's approaching the hall,

he's stepping out to the balcony.

Listen! Listen to the voice
of a proud people

acclaiming the man who will lead them back

to power and glory!

Sieg Heil!

- Well, he's done it.
- Things will happen now.

- What will happen?
- We'll see a new Germany.

I hope it's best for all, this change.

Why, it means our country will be
strong and powerful again, Frau Professor.

- Master of Europe and the world!
- Right, Fritz.

Fritz, I've never seen you
so enthusiastic.

But, Freya, this is Germany's prime need.

A strong man in the saddle.

A leader who will fight for victory!

- Good old Fritz.
- Yeah, Fritz is right,

you can't put Germany back
in her old place without bayonets.

- No.
- That's true.

Hitler will only
demand what is ours by right.

Nations who want peace
have nothing to fear.

And if they want a war,
by heaven, they'll get it!

You bet they will.

But, Fritz, now that
this man's come to power

what about those
who think differently? Freely?

Those who are non-Aryan?

Hmm, there's no cause for alarm, my dear.

Your mother's worried about me, I think.

Oh, but that's nonsense, mother.

Men like father are an honor to Germany.

Of course, men will be judged
on their merits, their records.

Father, what do you think?

Well, I, uh, I shall wait.

Men have given great power
to Adolf Hitler.

Let's hope responsibility brings wisdom.

Amen.

What's the matter with you, Martin?

Nothing.

Well, you don't seem
very happy about this.

Well, I didn't say that, Fritz.

- Still on the fence, Martin?
- That won't do, not now.

Oh, now, boys,
we've been all over this before.

- Now you know what I--
- But this changes everything!

Now there'll be one party and only one.

A man's got to take a stand.

If he's not for us,
he's against us and against Germany.

I don't quite agree with you, Otto.

But, now, we came here to celebrate

Professor Roth's birthday
and not chew over

a whole lot of old arguments.

Yes. You're getting very intolerant,
all of you.

We should be intolerant,

of anyone who opposes
the will of our leader.

Yes, whatever his will might be.

Persecution, war.

What sort of talk is that?

Are you a pacifist?

I think peace is better than war.

A man's right to think as he believes

is as good for him as food and drink.

That sounds like the sort
of swill the Reds dish out!

I never expected to hear it at this table!

Well, every time I mention it to you--

Boys, boys, boys.

Can't we discuss these matters
without quarreling?

After all, every hen thinks
she's laid the best egg.

May we not believe as we choose
and allow others to do the same?

Why, I'm sorry, professor,
but we're all pretty excited,

it's been wonderful news, you know.

- I'm sorry, professor.
- Pardon, old man.

It's my fault, Fritz.

Well, that's better.

Hmm, not that I don't like
a good argument.

- I'll go.
- No, I'll get it.

Hello? Hello?

Speaking.

Yes.

Yes, at once.

Yes, he's here.

I'll tell him.

Certainly. Immediately.

That was Holl, they've called
a meeting at 8:30.

- We have to attend.
- Where is it?

- The university.
- Oh, it's just about time.

Oh, mother, that was the district leader,

it's a special meeting.

It seems an awful thing to do, but--

Oh, but couldn't you explain?

Oh, what could I say,
that we're having a birthday party?

We've got to go.

After all, it is a big night, isn't it?

What about you, Martin? Coming?

- No, thanks.
- Oh, come on, join us.

You'll have to sooner or later.

Come on, we'll be late.

I'm sorry, Freya, but you understand.

Oh, it's all right.

They want you strangely enough,
Holl's bound to ask for you.

Well, tell him peasants have no politics,

they keep cows.

They want to keep their cows,

they'd better have the right politics.

Excuse me, Mrs. Roth, professor.

Aren't you coming?

No.

Goodnight.

Viktor, what a pity, your birthday party.

Yes, it seems as though we'll have to play

second fiddle to Herr Hitler.

- You oughtn't to mind.
- Huh?

Well, that's what they tell us in school.

The individual must be sacrificed

to the welfare of the state.

- Mrs. Breitner?
- Here, child, here.

Mrs. Breitner!

The little foal is going to live!

It's going to live.

I'm to take out the oil stove,
Martin says,

and some hot water with
a drop of wine in it.

The stove is ready, you'd better light it.

I'll take the hot water.

Isn't it wonderful?

I was so afraid
the little thing would die.

But the crisis is past. Martin says it--

- The stove is smoking.
- Oh.

It tried so hard to get
on its shaky little legs.

Martin says that--

Yes, yes, run along, Elsa, I'm ready.

Don't trip with that stove, child.

Martin says I was a great help to him.

I'm sure of it.

And Martin says that
all we have to now is...

Well, the greedy little fellow.

A little mare, Elsa.

Little girl, just like you.

I know it's a mare.

I don't know why you always talk
as if I was a child.

I'm nearly 16.

Well, listen to that, Mother.

Creature thinks she's grown up, huh?

Well, you're stupid.

I am grown up.

Of course I am.

Well, what on Earth? Elsa!

What's the matter with her, Mother?
I was just joking.

Take no notice, son.

A girl in her teens, at that age,

they're always between smiles and tears.

Well, she was crying.

Do you think she's unhappy with us?

No, no, she's glad of the work
and I am glad to have her.

It's all right, old girl.

We've saved your baby.

You have a real gift for healing, son.

It's a pity you've given up your studies.

You haven't been down to your classes

since that night at the Roth's.

The night Freya was engaged
to Fritz Marberg.

Well, it's not that, Mother, it's...

You love her, son.

Poor little thing's half asleep.

She's half tipsy.

Well, where is everybody?

- It's Freya.
- Hello.

Oh, I haven't seen you
in such a long time.

The engaged young lady,
and very happy, I suppose?

Oh, yes, certainly. Hello, Martin.

Hello, Freya.

Ah, look at the darling little foal.

- Is he sick?
- No, it's been drinking.

- How's the professor?
- Oh, he's fine.

Mother, too. They send you their love.

Thank you. I'm going in.

I have something in the oven.

Oh, that sounds very good.

We'd better get out of here.

Nelly thinks we're up to no good.

Oh, but I am Nelly, at least I hope so.

Oh, look.

Hello.

Come on down to the inn with us.

We've all been skiing.
Otto is there and Fritz and Erich.

We want you.

I'm pretty busy, Freya.

You're avoiding us.

Well, it's best.

Why, Martin,
we've been friends for a lifetime.

Don't you remember the pact
of eternal friendship we all wrote

and signed with our blood?

Well, it's just because I want
to keep that friendship

that I'm trying to avoid a quarrel.

But the boys are friendly,
they want to see you.

Oh, Martin, we ought to make every effort

to save our old happiness.

We won't talk about anything serious,

we'll just sing and laugh
and be silly the way we used to.

Don't desert us now, we need you.
You're so sane.

I hope I am.

All right.

You're the sanest person I know.

Come on, we'll ski down over Langenbach,
the snow is perfect.

Oh, I've missed you.

- It's wonderful.
- Wonderful.

- Watch the tree!
- Oh.

Nothing like a good song to raise a toast.

- A round of ammunition.
- Hey, Theresa, another bottle.

- Here's Freya at last!
- And with Martin.

Good!
Make it a couple of bottles, Theresa.

Something special.

- I brought the hermit.
- Good work, Freya honey.

- Hello, Martin, how are you?
- Hello, Martin.

Sit down, you old bear!

More like old times.
Where you been? We've missed you.

And you've missed a lot
of excitement, too.

I--hello, Theresa. You're welcome.

I've had nothing stronger
than buttermilk for weeks.

- The best wine we've got.
- Good!

Well, Martin, I hope
this means you're with us

in more ways than one.

We want you,
you're too good a man to lose.

We've always hung together.
Let's keep up the good work.

Holl, the district leader,
was asking about you

just the other night.

- He said--
- Fritz, please, no politics.

Says you could be a power
among the peasants.

Now, now, boys, I'm a farmer,
not a party man.

Freya just said no politics.

Prosit, Freya.

To our friendship.

- Prosit.
- Prosit.

Oh, Mr. Werner.

- Hello, Martin, how are you?
- Hello, sir. Glad to see you.

Good evening.

Freya, you remember
Mr. Werner, my old teacher?

Certainly, I do.

Yeah, he's teaching
your younger brother Rudi now.

Rudi thinks the world of you, Mr. Werner.

There's--there's Holl.
What's he gonna think?

- How's your mother?
- Fine, thank you.

She asked about you several times.

Thank you.

- Heil Hitler.
- Heil Hitler.

- Heil Hitler.
- Heil Hitler.

Heil Hitler.

Heil Hitler, Mr. Werner.

Good evening.

Mr. Werner, won't you sit down with us?

Thank you.
My dinner's waiting at my usual table.

Perhaps later.

Go ahead, folks!

How about another song, huh?

Come on, name your choice, what'll it be?

"Good Morning, Beautiful Miller Girl!"

I'll name a song!

A song that every
loyal German man and woman

will sing with high hearts!

A glorious song of a new Germany!

♪ Close up the ranks ♪

♪ Let every man be fearless ♪

♪ Our victory's near ♪

♪ We'll crush our every foe ♪

♪ Our leader calls ♪

♪ And we will follow him to glory ♪

♪ Unto our death ♪

♪ Our loyalty will grow ♪

♪ Our leader calls ♪

♪ And we will follow him to glory ♪

♪ Unto our death ♪

♪ Our loyalty will grow ♪

♪ Let cowards quake ♪

♪ As storm troops march before them ♪

♪ Our very strength ♪

♪ Will claim their blood of life ♪

♪ Into the crowd ♪

♪ We stand before our great leader ♪

♪ All hail to him ♪

♪ In victory and strength ♪

♪ No race on earth ♪

♪ Can keep our land from glory ♪

♪ We are by birth ♪

♪ The rulers of the world ♪

What's the matter with you?

That's the teacher again!

It's an insult!

Are you dumb

or don't you like our glorious song?

He's asking for trouble.

I beg your pardon,

but surely a man is free
to sing or not as he pleases.

I don't wanna hear any excuses from you,

I wanna hear you sing, understand?

I'm telling you to sing!

Now.

- Sing.
- Take it easy, Holl.

This man's a friend of mine.

Birds of a feather, eh?

Well, if you know what's good for you,
Martin Breitner,

you'll keep your snoot out of this.

Don't concern yourself,
please, I'm leaving.

Come on, Mr. Werner.

I don't think you want a brawl.

It's eight against two, you know.

Let them go.

Let them go!

I'm sorry you did that, my boy.

It might get you into trouble.

Don't worry about me.

I can take care of myself.

- Want me to go along with you?
- No, no, please. I'll be all right.

- Thank you, Martin.
- All right, sir.

Thank you very much.

- I'm sorry.
- I should think you would be.

Getting up from our table to brawl
with the top man in the party.

Erich, I said I was sorry.

That old chap's been decent to me.

I can't stand by and see him bullied.

Look here, Martin.

We've been friends for years

but I think it's time we had
an understanding about this.

- Now, Fritz--
- I'll do the talking.

We're in a state of revolution.

If we follow the will of our leader

it will be a bloodless one.

I follow him.

- And I.
- And I.

I hope soon to have
a share in enforcing it.

I see anyone who opposes it

as an enemy of his country.

And I'm not willing
to be seen in his company.

Fritz, you know,
I persuaded Martin to come.

- I said--
- Keep out of this, Freya.

It's no woman's business.

We wanna know where you stand.

We wanna know whether
you're going to join the party

and work for Germany

or herd with the pacifist vermin

we're going to stamp out.

We want to know. Right now!

- They're beating up a teacher!
- Serves him right!

You wanna know if I intend
to join your party,

well, I can tell you now, the answer's no!

- What are you doing?
- Never mind.

You're not going after that fellow!

That fellow, your lifelong friend!

Freya!

Freya!

I'm sorry you saw this,
but it can't be helped.

Leave me alone, leave me alone!

Glasses. My glasses.

Oh, Mr. Werner, I'm afraid they're broken.

♪ Simka Goldman's little man
was very, very small ♪

♪ Very, very small ♪

♪ He was very small, you see ♪

♪ When they got romantic
he was bouncing on her knee... ♪

It doesn't become women
to mix in public affairs.

And it's particularly unwise for you.

What nonsense.
I picked up an old man's hat.

Listen to me, Freya.

There are changes coming

that may make your father's position
very difficult

and you're not helping him any
by flaunting pacifist sympathy.

What has this to do with my father?

Oh, you mean because he's non-Aryan.

Men like my father are above politics.

You don't know what you're talking about.

If your party threatens men like my father

then we disagree more than I'd realized.

You're taking a very strange tone.

Surely I have the right to ask for loyalty

from the woman I'm going to marry.

Yes, Fritz, you have.

You have to make up your mind
to be heart and soul with me

in my convictions, or...

Or what?

Or we can't go on.

I think you're right.

I don't think I shall ever be

heart and soul with your convictions.

I'm not going to argue with you about it.

Women don't know anything about politics.

Oh, let's forget it.

If I was rude, I'm sorry.

But you know these things
are awfully important to me.

But you needn't bother
your head about them.

- Heil--
- Good afternoon, Lehman.

Good afternoon. Th-there's a new order.

I should say, "Heil Hitler," but I won't.

- Not to you.
- Well, thank you, Lehman.

That is unless some of
the other gentlemen are present

o-or the students.

Yes, I shall understand.

Heil Hitler.

Uh, Heil Hitler.

Uh, Fritz Marberg.

Shall we continue the experiment
that we commenced

on the separation
of the red blood corpuscles?

And you can help me
with the centrifuge later.

Before we, uh, resume our experiments

on the physical composition of the blood,

are there any questions?

Well?

Is it your opinion that
there is no difference

between the blood of an Aryan
and the blood of a non-Aryan?

Those are the findings of science.

Until now, physiology
has been unable to discover

any difference in the blood
of the various races.

Do you hear that?

It's a direct contradiction

to our leader's principle
of racial purity!

It's an impudent defense
of racial degeneration

and it's a lie!

I've given you the facts.

Scientific truth is scientific truth!

Unchangeable and eternal!

It cannot be altered to suit
the policies of the hour

or the clamor of immature hoodlums!

I demand that every loyal follower
of our leader

leave this room immediately!

From now on,
this class is strictly boycotted!

And those who remain
do so at their own peril.

We burn you! We burn you!

We burn you!

We burn you!

We burn you, Heinrich Heine,

because your poisonous sentimentality

enervates the strong soul of German youth!

We burn you! We burn you!

We burn you, Albert Einstein,

because you have advanced
a false and pretentious theory!

We burn you! We burn you!

We burn you! We burn you!

I'm sorry, but that's my decision.

I can't accept it.

I've never thought of anyone but you.

All these years must mean something.

I'd be a fool to let you end them

because of a silly squabble over politics.

But it's more than
a silly squabble over politics.

I know now I couldn't live in your world.

It's because I know
it's going to be difficult

but I want to help you.

But how can you help me?

You belong to this new Germany
that's come between us.

This new Germany
that persecutes my people.

Freya, I love you.
That's all that matters.

It's all over.

Freya, there's something I've got to say.

What, Martin?

Well, since that business
with my teacher at the inn,

things have been happening.

Two of our men at the farm
have been ordered to leave,

my uncle's shop has been wrecked

and I... most of my old friends
cross the street

when they see me coming.

Perhaps you shouldn't be seeing me.

Why, Martin, you can't be serious.

You're the only friend I have left,

the only person I can talk to.

I've never felt
so completely alone in my life.

That fellow with your sister...

isn't that Martin Breitner
of the Vettestein farm?

Yes, we forbade him from the house.

We'll settle this once and for all.

- Good evening.
- I thought I made it clear

that you were unwelcome here.

Otto!

I forbid you to enter this house again

or to have any further association
with my sister.

How dare you! You've no right--

Keep quiet. Get inside.

I think it's for Professor and Mrs. Roth
to decide whether I enter their house.

And I shall continue to see your sister
until she herself forbids me to do so.

I'll see you to the door.

Why does this have to happen?

Oh, I shouldn't have come.

It may hurt you.

Martin, they haven't gone.

They're going to wait for you, I know.

Don't worry, I can take care of myself.

Please don't go, I'm frightened.

Now, please, Freya. Go inside now.

Goodnight.

Be careful.

I will.

Father!

Father!

Freya! Freya, what is it?
Your father's not home.

It's Martin, they'll kill him!

Hurry, Mother, help me stop them!

Boys! Please, stop it!

- Otto, no!
- Stop them! Boys!

For shame!

- Martin, are you hurt?
- No, I'm all right.

Come inside, Martin.

Oh, Martin, I'm so ashamed.

They were guests in our home
and you're a friend.

I'll be going.

Anytime these gentlemen
want to continue their brawl,

they know where to find me.

Goodnight, Mrs. Roth, Freya.

I'm sorry.

I'm happy my husband wasn't here

to see his home disgraced by my sons.

I shall report the attitude
of your relatives towards that fellow.

You'll need to explain your
own position at headquarters.

- Heil Hitler.
- Heil Hitler.

- Heil Hitler.
- Heil Hitler.

That settles it.

That settles it.
We shall have to leave this house.

- Leave home?
- Naturally.

We've no choice now.

That's Father.

Oh, I'm late.

I told you not to wait up for me.

What's the matter? You look tired.

You feeling all right?

Well--

Something happened tonight, Viktor,

which has convinced the boys
they must leave the house.

Leave the house?

It's the best way. For all of us.

But, boys, this is your home.

We warned you to forbid Freya to associate
with Martin Breitner.

This is the result.

You ask me to force your sister
to give up a lifelong friend,

a young man we've always
liked and respected.

No, I-I couldn't do that.

You and your brother have chosen your way

and we've respected your decision.

We're entitled to the same tolerance.

But you risk your safety.

I've never prized safety, Erich,

either for myself or my children.

I've prized courage.

Then you must expect
to face the consequences.

Where will you go?

Will you be comfortable?

We'll be all right, Mother.

I'm sorry this had to happen. Goodnight.

Goodnight, Mother.

Goodnight.

Freya, you must see...

Get out.

- Oh, Freya!
- Hello, Martin.

Why didn't somebody tell me?
Where's Mother?

She's out in the dairy.

Oh. You're looking at the bride cups, huh?

Oh, is that what they are? They're lovely.

Yes, at the wedding feast,
the newly married couple

must drink out of the same cup.

That's why they're so big.

Uh-huh. An old custom in our family.

Look at this one. "Hubert and Anna, 1875."

Martin, I'm terribly ashamed
about last night.

Although, for a pacifist,

you gave a pretty good account
of yourself.

Oh, it was a good fight, while it lasted.

I can't say I was sorry, though,
when your mother stepped in.

Here, look, here's--here's a very old one.

Seventeen-ninety. "Kasper and Magdalena."

You were right about not coming down
to see me again.

It'd be terribly dangerous.

You saw yourself how Otto
and Erich have changed.

Yes, yes, I know.

I'll come up and see you.

That is, if you want me to.

If I want you to?

Freya...

look at this cup.

It hasn't any name on it.

No. No, not yet. It's mine.

Guess I always wanted
something I don't deserve.

Freya...

Have I a chance?

- Mr. Werner, good evening.
- Good evening.

Hello, Mr. Werner. How are you?

- Good evening, Miss.
- Well, you must be frozen.

Here, come over to the fire.

Mother! We have a visitor.

- Here. Can I take your coat?
- Just a minute, Martin.

Good evening.

Frau Breitner, I shouldn't have come here,

but it was my only chance
to escape arrest.

Arrest?

You were right to come.

You're isolated here.

I thought perhaps I could
find a hiding place.

Yes, but you wouldn't be safe.
We're your friends.

They'd think of that.

Of course.

- In the woods, perhaps?
- Oh, no.

They'd search the woods.

Then perhaps I'd better go

before I put you all in danger.

Well, your only chance
is across the border.

There's just one way
to get into Austria safely.

Through the Karwendel pass.

That's all unguarded country

but there's a way across the crest,
I found it as a boy.

It'd... be pretty tough going
but we can make it.

You'll go with me?

No one but Martin could get through
the pass at night.

But if they found out I'd been here,
you could never come back.

I have a brother at Innsbruck.

Martin can wait there
until I send him word

that it's safe to come home.

But I can't accept this.

Save your breath.
You'll need it for the climb.

Mother, I'll need some food and brandy.

Elsa! Get my knapsack for me.

There's a storm coming up. Be careful.

I'll be all right.
I've done it lots of times.

Promise me you'll come back safely.

I promise.

I don't know how to thank you.

In these days, we must help each other.

- Goodbye, Mr. Werner. Good luck to you.
- Goodbye.

Goodbye, Elsa. I'll bring you
a nice, new apron from Austria.

I'll pray for you.

Goodbye, Mother.

I'll wait for word at Innsbruck.

God be with you, son.

- Goodbye, Freya.
- Goodbye.

Take care of her.

- Ready, sir?
- Ready.

I love him.

Does he know?

Yes.

I am very happy, my dear.

I always hoped.

I'm very, very happy.

Look, is that the patrol?

What shall we do?

They'll find out,
and they'll take us to prison!

Elsa, Elsa, be calm.

Listen, child,

if they discover Werner was here
and went with my son,

they might follow and overtake them.

- They might kill them.
- No!

You don't want any harm to come to Martin?

Oh, no, Mrs. Breitner.

That's why I'm afraid.

Child, my son's life is in your hands.

Will you remember that?

I'll try. I will.

But they can make you speak,
I've seen them--

I've seen them, I tell you.

I saw them take some students.

I heard them scream.

Mrs. Breitner...

don't let them ask me
any questions, please.

If I should say anything
to hurt Martin, I'd kill myself.

Finish drying your dishes, child,

as if nothing had happened.

Don't speak.
Don't call any attention to yourself.

Go on, now. Don't be afraid.

Freya.

They're coming around the barn.

Come and sit down, my dear.

It's good to have something to do.

Courage.

What do you want?

Have you seen the schoolmaster, Werner?

No.

Hasn't been here, huh?

No.

- Max.
- What?

You and Semple
search the barn and stables.

You, too, George.

Take that lamp and search the back rooms.

And make a good job of it.

Where's your son?

In the village.

- When do you expect him back?
- At any moment.

What are you doing here?

I came this afternoon on a visit.

You don't choose your friends
very carefully

do you, Miss Roth?

I wonder at that.

You know, your name
doesn't sound very well to German ears.

When did you last see Werner?

Two weeks ago, at the inn.

You're prepared to swear
that he hasn't been here

- that you haven't seen him today?
- Yes.

Do you know it's a crime
to shield a traitor?

Certainly.

You're young, Miss Roth,

much too young to waste your years

in a concentration camp.

Oh, Elsa.

Come here.

Hans!

I don't know anything.

I haven't seen the schoolmaster.

I haven't seen him, I tell you!

Or Martin, either.

Oh, you haven't?

You haven't seen Martin Breitner, eh?

You're pretty eager
to tell me that, aren't you?

I wonder why.

Look here, don't you try
to make a fool out of me!

I'll take you down to headquarters

and you can tell your lies
to the secret state police.

- I don't know anything!
- They'll make you talk!

- I tell you, I don't know anything!
- They have ways

- of making girls like you talk!
- I'm telling the truth!

- You did see him, didn't you?
- No!

There's no sign of him.

Yes, I know.

He's gone.

You helped him to get away, didn't you?

I ought to take you down with me.

Under arrest.

But I won't.

I like to be kind to women.

If you confirm the facts
that that girl just gave me

I'll say that you were forced
to act against your will.

What do you say?

So...

your son will be back soon.

Good.

Have him report to headquarters
first thing tomorrow morning,

without fail.

Unless he comes in before noon,

it'll be better for him,
my good Frau Breitner,

never to come at all.

Believe me.

I didn't tell them.

I was afraid, but I didn't tell them!

God bless you, child.

Thank you.

He can never come back now.

You were out early, Freya.

Yes, I had to go to the library

to do some research work for Father.

I'm so happy about his book.

His missed his classes terribly at first.

Thank goodness with
his experiments and his book

he seems quite happy.

But you're not.

No, I'm all right, Mother.
Don't worry about me.

Freya, I'm going to tell you
something, dear.

Close the window.

I shouldn't tell you this, Freya,

your father asked me not to tell a soul.

He's going to Vienna.

Mother.

He's going to lecture
at the Medical Congress.

Then that means I can go to Innsbruck.

- I can see Martin.
- Yes, dear.

When?

Next week.

No. So soon?

Oh, Mother.

Oh, darling.

There's your father now.

Oh, Lehman, I thought it was father.

- Who is it, dear?
- It's Lehman.

Oh, Lehman! Has anything happened?

That's father's coat,
has there been an accident?

- No, no, no, miss. It's not that.
- Well then, what is it?

Two gentlemen came, ma'am,
and asked for the professor.

Yes?

I told them that he was
working on his experiments.

- And then what happened?
- They took him away.

- Who took him away?
- They, Frau Professor.

They arrested him?

I brought his coat and rubbers.

I hope no harm will come to him.

No one will help us.

No lawyer will plead for us.
They dare not.

But you're his superior,
you have a right to ask,

to know where he is
and why they've arrested him.

Believe me, Mrs. Roth,
I'd be doing you no service

and it would be
extremely dangerous for me.

Your husband is an eminent man

but I have a family.

I must think of them.

But I'm sure your sons would have
greater influence with the Gestapo.

Professor Roth was apprehended

because he sustained a theory
antagonistic to our most sacred ideals.

I'm not permitted to give you
any information

regarding his whereabouts,

and I suggest that you cease pushing

these tactless inquiries.

They only serve to call attention
to your undesirable connections.

Heil Hitler.

- Heil Hitler.
- Heil Hitler.

Miss Roth.

Please forgive me for bothering you.

Sit down, Miss Roth.

Thank you.

I suppose you know that
my father has been arrested.

Yes.

We don't even know where he is,

whether he's dead or alive.

We thought that perhaps
you might be able to help us.

I regret that such inquiries

are not handled by my department.

But I am told that they are handled
by your superior.

At least he knows where my father is.

That's all we ask, is to find out
what's happened to him,

if we can possibly be of any help.

If the office concerned sees fit
to withhold information,

there's nothing I can do.

So you haven't forgiven me.

You misjudge me.

I'm concerned with justice, not revenge.

Justice?

Fritz, you know my father is a just--

Please!

I told you this matter was not my concern.

If you came in the hope
that I could be influenced

by my personal feelings--

I came because I remembered you

as a generous and kind person.

Because I'm not ashamed
to ask a favor of you

because you once loved me.

You're my last hope.

Do this one thing for me

and I promise not to bother you again.

Fritz, please help me!

My father helped you,
he loved you and was proud of you.

Will you leave, please?

It was unfair of you to come.

To take advantage of an old friendship.

Freya.

What you ask is difficult and dangerous

but I'll find out where your father is

and try to arrange
for your mother to see him.

Fritz.

I regret, Miss Roth,
there's no point in further discussion.

- You're Emilia Roth?
- Yes.

Come.

- Wife of prisoner Roth?
- Yes.

Pass issued at.

Emilia Roth.

The prisoner Roth
is in barracks eight, isn't he?

Yes, sir.

He should be working now
with the labor gang.

Yes, sir.

I'll permit you five minutes
with the prisoner.

You're to talk only on family affairs.

What've you got there?

A few things for my husband,

socks, shirts, some fruit.

Not permitted.

- Go.
- Come.

Emily. Oh, my dear!

They didn't tell me.

- What a happy surprise.
- Sit down.

Yeah. Yeah.

Viktor...

You'll find me changed,
older, but I'm well.

Oh, Viktor, your hands.

No, please, my dear. It distresses me.

We all must work,
but it--it does us no harm.

Emily, dear, we have so little time.

Forgive me, dear.

There's so many questions.

How--how are the children?

- Well.
- A-and Rudi, does he know?

- No--
- No whispering!

We told him you were on a trip.

Oh, I'm glad.
There's no need to tell him, ever.

He shouldn't learn to hate.

They can't keep you here.

You've done nothing wrong.

Well, I'm afraid
they don't agree with you, my dear.

They think that your husband

is a very bad, obstinate old man.

But they will release you. Soon.

I don't think we should
be too certain of that.

You see, even if they let me out,

I should still fight for scientific truth.

Don't antagonize them, Viktor,

for my sake, for the children.

Emily, it would be unworthy of the love

that we have for each other
for me to be less than myself.

But I must hope.

Of course, you must, and you can help.

You can give me peace of mind.

You must take Freya and Rudi
out of the country.

- And leave you here?
- It's only for a little while.

Germany will find her old virtues again.

Freedom, belief in God.

You were told to talk
only about family matters.

Yes, to be sure.

You see, I'm a very bad,
obstinate old man.

I won't go without you, Viktor.

Don't ask me, please.

I see you can be stubborn, too.

Well, while we're waiting,
get everything in readiness.

- Yes, I'll do that. I'll--
- Time's up.

- Already?
- This way.

Oh, please, just a few minutes more.

No, it's no use, my dear,
we must say goodbye.

You mustn't worry about me.
I do very well.

I--I've made many friends.

You will be free, soon.

Yes, I shall be free, my dear.

God bless you.

God keep you all.

This way.

What is the cube of A plus B

assuming that A equals three
and B equals four?

- I've done that one.
- What's the answer?

- Three forty-three.
- Right.

You can put your books away now.
You've done enough.

When are we going away?

The minute that Father comes back.

But when is Father coming back?

Soon, Rudi, I'm sure.

We may have news from him any day now.

You always say that, Mother.

But you have to have patience, son.

I'm leaving now, Frau Professor.

Here are your wages, Marta,

and your reference.

I've written that you've been
with us for 15 years,

were always reliable and loyal.

I'm sorry to go, ma'am,
you've always treated me right,

but with my brother in the post office

working for the government,
as you might say,

it didn't seem right to stay,

especially with the professor--

We understand, Marta.
It's quite all right.

At Christmas when you got all the presents

you promised to stay with us forever.

Is that so, Mr. Sauce Box?

Well, things have changed since then.

I should think you'd have noticed that.

You owe me 20 pfennigs
for the milk this morning.

My brother will be calling for my trunk.

- Goodbye.
- Goodbye, Marta.'

Otto, you're--

You have news of Father.

Mother...

He's not free, then?

Mother, be brave.

He is free... at last.

Did they kill my father?

He died of a heart attack.

Did you see him?

No.

They don't allow it.

They don't dare,

because they killed him.

These maniacs you believe in killed him

and you know it.

They killed my father.

Mother!

What's wrong?

We're... going away now, Rudi.

This way, please.

I bet Martin will meet us.

At Innsbruck, I hope.

We're coming to a station.

- What time is it, Mother?
- Eight-thirty.

That must be the border.

I beg your pardon, please.

Do you know if we leave
the train for inspection?

No. I think it's usually done
on the train.

We hear they're very strict

especially with immigrants.

M-m-my wife is a little nervous.

She doesn't mean to say
anything against it.

We understand.

Here we are!

Rudi, sit down, dear.

Heil Hitler. Passport inspection.

Heil Hitler, German customs money control.

Is anyone present carrying
more than 10 marks

or plan to take out of
the country any foreign money,

gold, jewels, or any other valuables?

Any violation of the laws
covering these offenses

will be punished by penal servitude,

special cases by death.

Miss Freya Roth?

- Your passport.
- Whose suitcase is that?

- Mine.
- Take it down.

- Open it.
- It's not locked.

What is that, code?

No. It's a manuscript.

- A physiological treatise.
- Who wrote it?

- My father.
- Who is your father?

Professor Viktor Roth.

He's not with you?

He's dead.

Get that one down.

Why are you taking this
out of the country?

It was my father's last work.
He wrote it with his own hand.

You intend at publishing it abroad?

Oh, no, I hadn't thought of such a thing,

it isn't even finished.

I brought it for sentimental reasons only.

I can't take the responsibility
of allowing you

to cross the border with this document.

But why?

I-I treasure the manuscript
because it was my father's last work.

Surely, there isn't anything
suspicious about that.

This is a matter that can only
be decided by my superior.

I must ask you to follow me.

- But, officer, the train--
- No, no, mother. It's all right.

You go on, you and Rudi, you must!

- I'll take a later train.
- I can't leave you here alone.

Nothing can happen,
they can't object to the manuscript.

Now, will you come, please!

Goodbye, Rudi.

Goodbye, Mother.

- Tell Martin to be patient.
- Come!

I expected to follow
my mother immediately.

It's been five days now.

Won't you please be convinced
that I had no intention

of doing anything wrong and let me go?

I'll explain to you
why you're under detention.

This manuscript is a seditious production

sustaining a theory destructive
to the new ideals.

It will be destroyed.

And I, I may go?

No. Your passport is confiscated.

You cannot be allowed
to leave the country.

But why? How am I to blame?

Your anxiety to remove this script
proves your intention

to publish it in foreign countries.

You belong, in part, to the German race

but by your action you have shown yourself

unworthy to represent that race abroad.

You will report to the police daily.

Let me warn you to be extremely careful in
your conduct

and in your contacts.

That is all.

- Freya!
- Hello!

My dear, I am so thankful.

I was afraid you wouldn't dare.

I was afraid I'd get you into trouble.

You don't think you were followed?

No. I was very careful.

Why did you send for me?
Is there a message?

Why are you smiling?

Oh, Martin.

I didn't dare let myself believe it.

You shouldn't have come.

It was so crazy, so dangerous.

Freya, I've come to take you away.

- To Innsbruck?
- Yes.

- When?
- Now.

Now?

- I need never go back to town?
- No.

I need never let you go?

Nothing will ever part us again.

No, no, it's not real.

We've got to get across
the border before daybreak.

I promised your mother I'd bring you home.

Home?

But the journey isn't easy, Freya,

you've got to know what you're taking on.

- It's a long, hard way.
- I know.

I'm pretty sure nobody suspects
the spot I cross the border

but of course there's always
the danger of patrols.

I'm not afraid.

Well then, we'd better get busy.

So soon? I have so many questions.

- We've no time to talk.
- And we've so much to say.

We've never said the usual foolish things.

Do you know we've never said,
"I love you"?

Oh, we have our whole lives to say them.

Children. It's getting dark.

You have no time to waste.

You're sure you have everything?

- I think so, Mother.
- Your flashlight?

Yes, yes, it's right in there.

Mother, when Freya's missed,
they may suspect--

I can take care of myself, son.

Elsa, hurry please.

Thank you, Elsa.

I think you'd better go down to the inn

and spend the night with your aunt.

Oh, but please, can't I stay--

It's better for you
to be seen there tonight.

If there should be trouble,

you won't be suspected
of having a hand in it.

It's for your own sake, child.

Say goodbye now and get along.

Elsa.

Goodbye, Elsa.

Oh, you've been wonderful.

- Bye.
- Goodbye.

Won't you say goodbye to me, too, Elsa?

- Goodbye.
- Thank you.

Thank you for helping us so bravely.

I'll pray for you.

Both of you.

Mother, it's hard to leave you here alone.

I can manage.

I still have my strength and health.

You will find things in order
when you come back,

because you will come back.
This is your home.

This soil belongs to you

as it did to your forefathers.

I want you and Freya
to take a glass of wine

before you start.

This is apple wine

from the fruit of Martin's tree.

You know it, don't you?

I used to rest in the shade of it

when I was expecting him to be born.

I nursed him under its branches.

He held on the trunk
in his first efforts to walk.

It's Martin's tree.

Now I want you to drink
the wine of its fruit

from the bride cup.

I hoped to see you married
in the little church

at the foot of our mountain

with the music of the organ

and the good Father
to give you the blessings.

But since it cannot be,

after your marriage,
I'll have your names painted on the cup.

But for me...

this is the moment of your wedding.

May the blessing of God be upon my son...

and upon his wife.

- Amen.
- Amen.

And now go.

Let her alone! She doesn't know anything!

She's just a child!

Let her alone! Let her alone!

So, Karwendel pass.

I didn't think it possible. In winter?

- He's an excellent climber.
- He knows how to climb.

He's pretty smart,
it's an unguarded section.

He has a start,
but he's hampered by the woman.

Let's see.

Now, this is the point where the fugitives
should emerge from the pass.

Marberg, you will take a patrol

in motor cars to Laudenfens.

That should cut your
cross-country climbing by half.

You ought to be able to reach
the section before your quarry.

I most respectfully request
to be relieved of this command.

- What?
- Why?

What do you mean?

I once looked upon these two people
as my closest friends.

I'm aware of that.

I realize that this duty
must be carried out

but I beg of you to understand
a human weakness,

to send someone else
to command the patrol.

You have sworn allegiance
to the Third Reich.

In the service of your country

there are no human relationships.

I've given you an order.

I am waiting to know whether
you will show yourself worthy

of the trust that our leader
has placed in you

or whether you will dishonor me,

your comrades, and yourself.

At your command,

I shall be on Karwendel pass
with my men before daybreak.

- Heil Hitler.
- Heil Hitler.

Martin.

Martin!

Am I going too fast?

I'm sorry.

Every time I look back,
you seem to be smaller.

Martin, we're not lost, are we?

Oh, no. Are you afraid?

Not when your arm is around me.

- Are we halfway?
- Yes, I think so.

Why, your face is so small and white.

- You're very tired, aren't you?
- No, no, I'm not tired.

- Really I'm not.
- All right.

Do you have any idea where we are?

We should be near Karwendel pass.

Should be? We'd better be.

Unless you want them to slip
over the border ahead of us.

We're doing the best we can, aren't we?

Martin, come on, let's stop a minute.

I'm not really tired.

It's just difficult to breathe so high up.

Oh, I know, darling.

I think we can reach the pass
in about an hour, less, perhaps,

if your strength just holds out.

You're my strength.

I won't fail you.

I know you won't.

- All right.
- You ready?

Freya?

Freya, look!

Look, it's Austria.

It can't be true.

We just have to go down
that open space there,

those high rocks are on Austrian soil.

And free.

Come on! I'll race you down the slope.

- Oh.
- You think you can make it?

- I can try.
- All right.

What is it, Martin?

- A patrol.
- No.

Yeah, right to the right there.

Get back, they'll see us.

We have one fighting chance, Freya.

Shall we make a try for it?

Or shall we go back?

Go back to what, Martin?

Be careful.

Good luck.

There they are.

We'll head 'em off.

Halt!

Halt!

Halt!

- Well?
- Eight hundred paces.

Take aim.

Keep firing, keep firing!

They're over the border.

You clumsy fools! You missed him.

Cease firing!

Why, Martin,

did I faint?

Yes, darling.

But we made it, didn't we?

- We're free?
- Yes, we're free.

Listen, you can hear
the church bells from the village.

Oh, we're almost there, darling.

No, no, wait.

Let me rest a little.

Dear Martin...

I am tired now.

Yes, very...

very tired.

Oh, no, Freya.

Oh, no.

We met them on Karwendel pass.

I ordered them to halt,
but they refused to obey.

At my command, the patrol opened fire.

They were able to cross the border, but...

Freya was hit.

She died before reaching the village.

I had no choice. It was my duty!

Freya killed.

Freya.

It doesn't make sense.

And Breitner goes free!

Yes.

Free to think as he believes.

Wasn't that what he said?

Free to fight against all we stand for.

Yes.

Thank God for that.

Freya.

Six candles, one for each decade

of a wonderful life.

Now, blow them all out and make a wish.

We've been a very united family.

In this house,
we've had the habit of gracious living.

We've prided ourselves on our tolerance
and our sense of humor.

Good heavens,
here I am making another speech.

Well, I can think of
no better wish than this.

May our happiness last

as long as we live.

I think peace is better than war.

And a man's right to think as he believes

is as good for him as food and drink.

I, uh, I thank you
for your beautiful gift.

It shows me, this splendid torchbearer,

that you have understood
what I have desired to impart.

And that into your young hands

will be given the torch of science

when it has fallen
from the hands of your masters.

I sincerely pray
that you will carry it worthily.

I said to a man who stood at the gate...

give me a light that I may tread safely
into the unknown.

And he replied,

"Go out into the darkness

and put your hand into the hand of God.

That shall be to you better than a light

and safer than a known way."