Edge of Hell (1956)

[bunniefuu]

American Steel. Up one and a half points.

I should have bought a couple of hundred shares.

Oh, Aircraft is doing well.

Well, look at that. Diana Earphones up two points.

Yes, deafness is on the march.

Cry for help. Tell them to stop wars and bloodshed.

He can hear you.

Maybe now with good earphones we would be a lot better.

It doesn't interest you, huh?

What's the matter with you? Don't you feel well?

Ah, don't give me that. You're just too lazy to go to work.

I know .. here ..

Take this back to apartment 2B.

Before they return. Take it and go.

Hey!

Keep it dry, do you hear me?

Who's such a cute little dog? I want to stroke you.

Flip, come here!

Old man.

You've got no business to go to everybody who calls you.

What's the matter with you?

Don't you catch her French accent?

Say, don't you know? When you've had a stroke .. it's this side.

Your mouth must go this way. Either change your hand or your mouth.

This doesn't make sense.

Everybody wants to be a professional.

This is the first cigar I've smoked in months.

Times are so bad, everybody smokes it down to the last puff.

It must be an imported one.

More like it should be deported.

Double or nothing.

Wait a minute.

The whole sixty thousand?

Oh, I thought it was fifty?

Ah well. I've shot it already. Give me a card.

Look who's here. The master himself.

Hi, Romans, countrymen and lovers.

How are you? Why are you such a stranger?

Well, I work now every second or third day.

My asthma is getting worse and then the smog is k*lling me.

How is business, boys? Oh great, just great.

I'm losing 125 thousand but it doesn't mean a thing.

Just take it off my income tax.

I played games a lot in my old country.

What was you there? Ah, the same thing.

You know, the best government for beggars?

Is an Empire, or a Kingdom.

They belong to the good life, to do charity in the open air.

So, why didn't you stay in your beloved Kingdom?

You fool .. it's all vanishing, disappearing.

Emperors, Kings, Noblemen. They are slowly ..

Infiltrating our lines.

What's wrong with democracy? Ah, it has an uncertain future.

A rich man catches the attention of the Internal Revenue.

Overnight, he's a beggar.

On the other hand, a beggar just casually ..

Fiddles with his cane in the ground and strikes oil. He's overnight a rich man.

You never know where you stand.

What's the matter with him? Sensitive.

He doesn't like to be called a beggar.

So he begs in front of a synagogue. That makes him a schnorrer.

If he likes it better, it's alright with me.

What happened to him?

Drunk.

For three days.

Yesterday, today and tomorrow.

Any special reason?

Ah, what's the difference as long as it serves the purpose.

Come Flip. Let's go and make some money.

Goodbye, boys. Goodbye.

Paper, lady?

Shoeshine, sir?

Don't get fresh.

Extra! Read all about it. Scientist predicts world doom.

Ah, shut up .. I've got a headache.

Well, take a powder, you old buzzard.

A little more respect, if I may ask.

Oh, you're a character. Wait, I've got yesterday's paper for you.

Oh, thanks pal.

I read today's. Not much improvement.

Extra! Read all about it. Extra!

Feet up .. ice cream .. ice cream .. up!

Then, to turn around.

Kinda cute.

Up!

Up!

Flip!

Thank you very much.

Hey, beat it!

Flip.

Hey, you.

You mean me? Yeah. Come here.

Is that your dog?

What dog? That scrawny little fleabag.

Oh, you mean that one?

Did he do something wrong?

We got a call in to the station about a guy and his ..

You know what I'm talking about.

I really don't know. What, what is it all about?

Now stop acting. Show me your act.

Do something.

What shall I do? Have your dog do his tricks.

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

Flip, do you know what this gentleman ..? I mean ..

You must be mistaken, mister.

Officer.

Flip, come here.

This gentleman here wants you to do something. I don't know what he means.

Some tricks or ..

You see? He doesn't know a thing. A complete imbecile.

I say to you: woof.

Cut it out. You trying to be funny?

[ Telephone ]

[ Telephone ]

Norton speaking.

Flip .. where are you going?

Yeah.

Let go!

Come here, quick.

Treatment for my asthma.

No excuse this time.

Come. Let's go.

Come, come, come.

You get me in such trouble.

You should be ashamed. Come, come, come.

I should really spank you for it.

He must be the meanest guy in the world. Did you hear how he talks to the doggy?

Don't mind the doggy. How about me?

Look, I need the dough. The guy is waiting.

I know. Shopping is hard.

I tell you he'll cut me in on the deal.

I know your big deals.

You know, sometimes I think you just married me for my money.

That I haven't got.

Very funny.

If you want me to lose my temper ..

Try it .. go ahead.

I'm too much of a gentleman. Hoo, hoo ..

That's the new neighbour. She's a Swiss.

Has a half-accent.

Who hasn't in this house?

Looks like you made a hit.

I'm sure she wouldn't make such a fuss over a lousy couple of bucks.

You want to ask her?

Jealous?

You are sweet.

How about yourself?

You stay there, and don't even talk to me.

The law is the law. And a uniform is a uniform.

If it was a mailman, alright. He never brings anything for us.

But a flatfoot is something sacred.

Let me see .. uhuh ..

Not a safe spot in the world.

Wars .. uprisings .. revolutions.

Am I glad it is yesterday's paper.

Shame on you.

Hi.

Ah, hi. Come in little angel.

Tucker .. oh, look how he knows.

We had spare ribs tonight. Special. So I thought ..

Ah, you are such an angel. That punk doesn't even deserve it.

How can you say that? Such a sweet little pooch.

That sweet little pooch, that punk. Almost got me arrested.

What did he do? Don't even ask.

Say, there is enough for both of us. Sure, you can eat it too.

I wouldn't bring you any scraps. Hmm. Smells wonderful.

How are things with you? Oh, we had a rush.

You know, I served lunch until almost four.

There were so many dishes to wash. I just came home.

Now sit down and relax. Want a cup of coffee?

Oh, don't bother Mr Valentine. But it's no bother, I just warm it up.

You don't mind if I leave the door open? I'm expecting my boyfriend.

Uhuh .. that good-looking chauffeur.

Yes. Isn't he handsome?

Yes, he looks real sharp. Must be with noble people, rich people, huh?

Oh yes, heavy industry. Tools and machinery.

Mr Hawkins, the old man, he's loaded.

It's the best thing to do. I have been loaded for years.

You're always trying to be funny, Mr Valentine.

Say, is it true that you were in Vaudeville? A clown or something?

I was everything.

Yes, originally I was an actor, but it's so many years ago, it almost isn't true.

Oh, I always dream about being an actress.

I know no-one would put me in the movies, but I thought maybe on stage.

Tell me about it, please. What did you play?

Hmm, I played everything.

Mark Anthony .. Romeo.

Cyrano De Bergerac .. King Lear.

Please play something for me.

Are you crazy? I'd be embarrassed.

I'm playing my part. Everybody is.

You too. Well, why did you quit?

Oh, that was a sad story.

You know, one day I got a great part in a Russian play .. a drunk.

I studied so hard .. it stuck with me.

I couldn't snap out of it.

You know?

Then I .. missed performances.

I lost my memory. Couldn't remember lines.

Couldn't remember where I was, what I did ..

Finally .. they kicked me out.

I lost my beloved theatre.

What a long line of different characters I've played in life.

I was a clown in a circus .. an agent.

A janitor .. street cleaner. Garbage collector.

Well, and finally .. a tr*mp.

Dirty, unshaven.

Walking through the streets.

People dropped coins in my pockets and ..

Funny, I didn't feel any shame. It was just like playing the part of a beggar.

All of a sudden, it became a challenge to me.

To touch people's hearts with my performance.

So, I started studying my lines, just like an actor.

Oh, I became a master in begging.

You know, once a professional beggar watched me for a while.

And then he reached in his pocket and gave me a nickel.

It was my biggest triumph.

The sugar is there.

And where did you pick your little doggy?

Ah you see, I tried all kinds of tricks.

To make my performance quick.

I had white mice and I played the fiddle and I played shell-shocked.

I played a blind man.

It was alright, but of course nothing sensational.

Then one day .. take sugar.

Out of the clear sky, you know. Just by coincidence.

I picked up a little puppy. A mongrel.

Oh, what a goldmine.

You know that people have much more feeling for an animal than human beings.

I just stood there on the corner with this little beast in my arms.

And everybody stopped and played with the doggy and asked questions.

And I gave it to them.

Or .. just improvised.

"Ad-libbed" as we say professionally.

About an old pal who was about to die ..

And I had to promise him that I would take care of the little puppy.

And there I managed to ..

Get tears in my eyes.

Oh, people wept and cried.

It was a joy to listen.

You know, that sometimes I made 25 or 30 bucks like this.

But then, all of a sudden I became jealous of that little beast.

All the credit went to the dog.

Nobody cared about my brilliant performance.

And Flip is that little puppy?

No, Flip is the son of the puppy.

I trained him myself. He doesn't know much, but we get away with that.

But aren't you jealous of his success?

Of Flip? No.

Flip and I, we are like one.

No, he is like a human-being.

Only better.

You see, when Flip .. gets a hand.

I feel proud like a father.

Believe me.

[ Whistling ]

Hey, that's Freddie. I'm down here, Freddie.

Down the stairs, in the basement.

For heaven's sake, what are you doing here?

Freddie, this is Mr Valentine.

The man with the clever dog I told you about. Remember?

Oh yes. Sure I remember. How do you do?

Nice to meet you, Freddie. Why don't you come in?

I can only stay a minute. I forgot to pick up the birthday cake.

Who's got a birthday? That little brat of mine.

He means Mr Hawkins junior.

Well, it'll be a madhouse with all those kids, and they got the cake all ready.

You mean, a children's party? Yeah.

You want to go to the movies, Saturday? Wonderful. What time do you get off?

About five.

Tell you what, let's have dinner at home.

We can save money, and go to the movies afterwards.

Excuse me, did you say a children's party?

Yeah .. why?

Oh, I know what you mean.

You know, children are crazy about my act.

What do you think, Freddie? You mean .. to give a performance?

You should see that little mutt. He is just adorable when he dances and jumps.

Why, Mr Valentine, give him an audition. No, no. I'm in a hurry. I believe you.

That's not the point.

You see Freddie, with all those rich kids there, he can pick up a few bucks.

Yeah, I know. I'm just trying to think how to ..

The boss is out of town. George is the butler .. and he's a snob.

But .. maybe Miss Halsey. Yes, I can ask her to help me. She's in charge.

Please, Freddie. Do it for me.

Say, are you his agent?

If the old man, the boss's father was going to be home, it would be a cinch.

He's a great guy, especially after a couple of drinks.

Here Flip .. come on .. hello.

Isn't he a little darling?

Wait a minute. Maybe I can manage.

I've got an idea. Oh, wonderful.

Gee, I'd better go or I will be late. You'd better write down the address.

1542 North Lakewood Drive.

North Lakewood Drive? Is it far from here?

It's in the Lakewood district. If you take the new Freeway, it's 20 minutes.

Well, how do I get there?

They wouldn't take the dog on a bus.

Yeah, that's right. Can't you hitch-hike?

Well, would you pick up a hitch-hiker like me?

I guess not. See ..

What can we do about it, Freddie?

If I was going to be around here tomorrow, I could drive you.

But I have to drive Mrs Hawkins all day.

I've got a great idea. When is the event?

Be there about 3:00 or 3:30. It's right on the corner of Crown Boulevard.

I'll do it.

Say, where do you think you are going with that mutt?

Sorry, old man. No dogs allowed.

Can't you see that the poor man is blind?

Sorry lady, I've got my instructions.

No dogs allowed on streetcars or buses.

Besides, that isn't a blind man's dog.

Well, can't you consider your heart instead of your regulations?

Can a dog help what he looks like?

Look, lady. No lectures please. I know exactly what I'm supposed to ..

Alright, old man.

Come on in.

Thank you. You are good people.

Thank you young lady.

Crown Boulevard, mister.

You lost something.

A dime. Thanks, mister.

Look at that.

See?

Isn't it beautiful?

A dog's paradise.

Somebody is coming.

What do you want here?

Nothing. Just ..

Admiring all that beauty.

Well, get going. This is no neighbourhood for begging.

Excuse me, sir. I'm not asking anything from you.

You can't chase me out of the street.

It's free territory.

Wise guy, huh? Revolutionary, huh?

Well, we'll see what the Police have to say.

Hey, Fred.

Yes, Mr Hawkins?

Here, have a drink on the little boy's birthday. - Thank you.

Are the kids having fun? They seem so, sir.

Of course. Well, it's just an idea, sir.

Come on, speak up my boy.

If you don't mind, sir. I was of thinking that ..

Maybe the children ought to have some good entertainment.

Like a puppet show. Or something to make them laugh.

They just sit around and look at all the presents and envy our little Charlie.

It's not much fun for the kids, sir.

You're a fine, sensitive boy, Fred. I like you.

What would you suggest?

Maybe we should call an entertainment agency? There's still time.

What do you think?

Well, sir. On my way back, about a half-hour ago.

I saw an old man, right around the corner on Crown Boulevard.

With a little trained dog.

The smartest thing I've ever seen in my life, sir. Doing all kinds of tricks.

Where is he? Get him. Is he still around?

Tell him I'll pay him well. Go on, quick.

I think I see him right here, sir. Right in front of the house.

What a lucky coincidence.

Let's go and catch him.

Now, for the last time, beat it. Or you'll be in trouble.

Well .. you asked for it.

Hello, my good man. Come in.

Thank you, but I don't know if this gentleman will approve.

Oh, don't bother about him. He's an old idiot.

Come in, please.

Just for a little while. I've got some appointments. You know.

I'll pay you for your lost time.

He's a sweet little .. what's his name?

Flip. Flip?

You'll have to name a new c*ck after him.

Flip!

Once more.

Come, close.

Do you like him, Charlie? Would you like to pet him, sweetheart?

Is it alright? Oh sure. Go ahead.

Give the little boy a nice kiss. Don't please! How about the germs?

Oh that's alright. The dog doesn't mind. He is not particular.

I love that man.

I want him do more.

Well, tell him yourself. He'll obey you. Here ..

Go ahead. Tell him "get up, Flip".

Snap your fingers. Get up, Flip.

Isn't that sweet, Charlie? Look how he obeys you.

I think Charlie's caught a flea.

Don't worry, lady. Dog's fleas don't grow on human beings.

Are you sure? Well, it's as much as I know.

The question is, if the fleas know it.

Now tell him to dance. Say .. "dance, Flip".

Dance, Flip. See?

Come on. Let's have a drink.

I hope you can stand one.

That's the understatement of the year.

Oh, what a library.

What you going to have?

Oh, something soft if you don't mind.

You have Vodka by any chance?

Here. Help yourself.

Oh, thank you.

I'll take cognac.

I've not had good vodka for years.

Here's to the new generation.

Are you kidding? What new generation?

The last generation.

Don't be such a pessimist.

It's easy for you.

With all the medicine against pessimism.

Well, here ..

Take it.

Thank you, Mr Hawkins. You have so much understanding.

It feels heavy to me.

It drags me down, here.

If we could find something to ..

To balance it, maybe?

A book, or something?

Let me check.

How is that?

Brilliant idea!

Mr Hawkins, you're a great man.

They should call you to the White House to balance the budget.

Now, let's have a toast.

Now, we'll drink to .. to what?

To anything .. to anybody.

I'm so absent-minded.

Thanks, Fred. The children are a lot fun ..

Always keep aspirins in the house.

You're a great guy, Valentine.

Why don't I have a relative like you? Yeah, why don't you?

Make me a third cousin, fourth, fifth. What's the difference?

Say, what are you?

You mean, professionally?

I'm an undercover man for Wall Street.

What's your name? Valentine.

I mean, your first name.

Valentine. Just one name. Isn't that strange?

Yeah.

You know ..

I'd like to give you something.

A present, a souvenir to take home with you.

Give me something personal. Something you made yourself.

For instance?

Money.

I'm just joking.

Here. No ..

I hope this will make up for your lost time.

Hawkins, you're a great man. Thank you.

But on second thoughts, I think I shouldn't take it.

Wait.

I've got a great idea.

Valentine, my friend, this is all for you.

What is it? A roast.

And the best there is, my friend. And here's another one.

And a wonderful banana cake I stole from the children.

And a chocolate special. And a lot of other things.

All for me? And here.

Cigars. Oh, Hawkins.

Hawkins, you can be sure I'll come again.

And another bottle. And another one.

Father, you must be out of your mind. You know we have guests to dinner.

Twelve people, not including you and me.

Never mind. We'll go out to eat.

I told Joyce to reserve a large table at the Eldorado.

I want my friend here to have a treat.

Oh!

So what?

Fred, put all this in the car.

And drive my good beloved friend home.

Mr Hawkins, please. What is it, Miss Halsey?

Little Charlie doesn't want the dog to go.

Please mister, take the dog away. Charlie's getting all upset.

Now listen. Charlie, what is it?

The doggy must go to sleep and we come again.

Now Charlie, that's enough. As soon as he's rested, we'll have him come again.

Come now. Be a good boy. I want the dog!

Now look, darling. The children had to go home and the dog has to go home too.

I want the dog!

What shall we do? It was a stupid idea bringing the dog here.

I think it was a great idea.

Then, do something about it. Can't you see the poor child's upset?

Charlie, stop crying.

I'll get you the doggy. Stop yelling.

How much do you want for the dog?

I beg your pardon? How much do you want for Flip?

I'll give you .. say, a hundred dollars.

I'm sorry, but the dog is not for sale.

Everything is for sale. Everything in this world.

Two hundred?

Oh .. don't misunderstand me.

You know Hawkins, I love you. But I couldn't sell Flip.

I understand.

It was silly to offer you two hundred dollars for a trained dog.

You see, I don't know anything about the price of a dog.

That's right, sir.

You don't know anything about the price of a dog.

You just name your price.

Go ahead, don't be afraid. I can afford it.

Four hundred? Five?

That's not a bad price for a little mongrel.

Well .. it's not a bad price for a pedigree dog either.

That's not the point.

But I ..

I couldn't sell Flip for .. any price.

I'm sorry.

Don't be sentimental, you old fool.

Here, I'll give you ..

Let's make it quick, like pulling a tooth.

I'm sorry folks. Thank you for everything. Goodbye.

Goodbye.

You know, that Hawkins. He's a wonderful guy.

I think I should associate more with rich people.

There is nothing wrong with them. Just that stupid prejudice of mine.

How much did you make?

Forty bucks. And say, I should split it with you.

No, don't be silly.

The poor little kid. He cried.

I feel sorry for little Charlie.

Say, I should try ..

One of these expensive cigars.

Maybe it will k*ll me, but ..

I want to live dangerously.

This is something, huh?

Well, you're finally back. I rushed home like mad. How was it?

Helen darling you're an angel.

You've brought me good luck.

Look. I'm a rich man now.

Oh my gosh, a whole roast.

There is another one. Look at this here.

And here, here.

You know, this rich man. He fell ..

Madly in love with me.

And his family and children and everybody.

He was terrific.

I never seen a bigger cake in my life. Yes. That's not all.

What will you do with this stuff? It will spoil.

Enough here for a whole regiment.

I've got an idea.

Let's make a party. For whom?

For whom? For everybody!

Let's invite all my friends. The whole g*ng.

Let's have fun.

Foxie, you are just on cue.

Great timing. Come in.

What gives?

A mirage!

Foxie, I make you my master of ceremonies.

Go and invite the whole g*ng. Everybody in the jungle.

Tell them Mr Valentine takes pleasure in ..

Asking them to attend ..

A party.

In honour of his beloved ..

Flip.

And let's make if formal.

Doesn't it look delicious?

Delicious.

Oh, they'll love it.

Gentlemen, how about some cigars?

Ah, cigars. Help yourselves.

Here is one for you, boy.

Mr and Mrs Shish Kebab.

Ah, nice to see you folks. Come in.

How are you?

Turn around. Let's see the back.

Oh, isn't that pretty?

How you doing?

Good. A special c*ck. Vodka with vodka.

You will love it.

I hate to smoke on an empty stomach.

I wonder when we're going to eat.

That's why I don't like parties. They started it before the food is served.

Unfortunately, I spoiled my stomach last night.

Herring with strawberry sauce.

Here, gentlemen.

Schmitt .. give us some music.

Well, how was business today?

Ah, lousy.

Out of five customers, three kept the pencil.

I switched back to the "old faith" routine.

Best gag so far.

People are so suspicious nowadays, I'm getting disgusted.

We should get this Valentine guy to give us some new tips.

He's got some great experience.

Well, with his continental background, he ought to know better.

Valentine, did you meet my Grandma?

Oh .. it's a great honour.

Are you .. proud of your grandson?

He could be worse.

What do you mean "could be worse"?

He might be a politician.

That's true.

Tell me, how do you keep your hands so nice?

Oh just sandpaper. Sandpaper and soda.

Each time after scrubbing floors.

It even takes away the odour.

There's a new thing coming out to take away the onion smells.

They carry it at the Rodeo Market.

It's sensational.

I don't go for that phony stuff.

The best thing to k*ll onion odour .. is garlic.

It's sure-fire. Take it from me.

Ladies and gentlemen. Food is ready.

Come and get it. Come and get it!

That went fast.

I thought it would last .. for days and days.

Yeah, but it was delicious.

I haven't eaten so well since that big fire over at The Grotto restaurant.

But of course, the food there was a little too well done.

Schmitt, why don't you play?

He's had too much.

Just wait. I'll get my Phonograph.

But I haven't any dance music. Just some classics.

I love classic.

Ah! I feel great. Like in the old days.

Foxie, come here.

Bring some rum.

The cheapest, but a lot of it.

Just to keep the fire burning.

And wait.

And here bring some hot-dogs.

Bread and mustard. Go.

Tomorrow is another day.

How did La Fontaine say it?

"Better a living beggar, that a dead Emperor".

Got that? Wait honey, let me help you.

Where were taking it? Just downstairs to the basement.

Thanks. I can manage. It's okay. I'll help you.

I'll be right back.

Awfully nice of you. We're having a party downstairs. I'm bringing my music.

Well everybody, what's going on here? An underground meeting?

Ah, come in, Frenchie.

This is my neighbour. Meet my friends.

Jenette De La Tour.

Fran�ois De La Shmoe. Enchant�.

Helen, here.

Come in.

Oh, you are so charming.

I always had the impression you didn't like me.

No, I'm fascinated with you. But .. what can I do?

To me, the whole world is a theater.

But I've got no part for you.

Just a bit part? Do you mind?

Well, let's wait and see what I can do.

Come.

Ooh.

Thanks.

What are you doing here? Locked out?

Are you kidding?

Me locked out? I'd break her neck.

Say, you look pretty sharp.

Sit down.

I can't. I have a date.

He'll wait. Sit down.

[ Music ]

[ Music. Beethoven ]

[ Music continues ]

[ Music stops ]

Frenchie.

Come on .. what's going on here?

Come right in.

Everything. Everything is on the house.

Oh, you have company.

It's like Halloween. What's the occasion?

Just a little party in honour or our star.

Yep. He made a hit with a rich man. No kidding.

Would you believe that he offered me five hundred bucks for him?

You're kidding. No. It's true.

Five hundred for that crummy pooch?

Yes. But you wouldn't say that if you'd seen him perform. He's a great artist.

You don't say.

Well, ain't you a clever little beast.

He doesn't like me. Figure that.

[ French language ]

[ French language ]

[ French language ]

Hey, hey, hey. What is this?

Sounds like a foreign movie. Where's the subtitles?

Why don't you play something g*y?

I haven't got any dance music.

I've got a minuet.

A nice little pooch.

Cut it out, you crook. I know exactly what's on your mind.

Oh, I've got a great idea.

Let's go back to the court of Louis Quatorze.

What kind of a track is that?

Come here.

You just follow .. do whatever I do.

Come and join us. It is fun.

I sent the wife and kids to pick up coal down at the Lamont Factory.

They usually spill a lot when they unload.

Stefan's got a nice spot.

At the rear entrance to Macy's. Nice and warm.

He knows the janitor.

Yeah, if you know the right people. The whole world is based on that.

Whatever happened to Mr Valentine?

He doesn't even pass by anymore.

Ah .. what does he care about flops like us?

He's got better company.

I saw him about two weeks ago. On North Street.

He looked terrible.

Leaning against the wall.

Breathing like a locomotive. Why didn't you talk to him?

I couldn't. I wasn't alone.

That's a funny excuse. Don't you say hello to a pal?

I was with a Cop. On the way to headquarters.

Hmm .. why don't you go down and see what's going on with him?

I hate to drop in on people.

Unless they're not home, huh? Cut it out, will you.

Well, maybe I should go to see Mr Valentine.

And ask if there is another party in sight.

Life is nicer with a little hope ahead.

Hey you, don't growl and don't jump.

It's a friend.

[ Door knocks ]

Come in. Don't be so formal.

Mr Valentine .. what's going on?

I hope you're just taking it easy.

What else can I do?

That November air is k*lling me.

It's very bad .. and the nights are even worse.

Sitting up all night long and fighting for, for air.

Oh .. is it that bad?

How come all of a sudden?

Just a few weeks ago, you were all fun and jokes.

Yeah. I knew a guy who was alive yesterday. Today he is dead.

And you're alone.

I can stay here and help you. I've got all the time in the world.

Thank you, Foxie. You are nice, but ..

That girl from upstairs is taking care of me once in a while.

She lost her job.

She used to bring me some leftovers from the cafeteria but now she is chasing it.

A new job all day long. Poor girl.

Can I bring you something?

There's not a penny in the house.

That's bad.

How about the hospital?

Oh, how can I go to the hospital?

I can't take Flip with me. They won't let me.

I see .. how about calling a doctor?

He should know what to do.

You see, I like doctors but ..

They know about asthma as I know about ..

Dancing on a high wire.

Can I take the dog out and make some dough for you?

He wouldn't perform without me.

He's got character.

What's the matter with you? Don't you feel well?

It's alright. How are the guys in the jungle?

Cold.

But it's cozy around the fire. We talked about you.

Oh, you've got company. That's good.

Hi, Foxie. Hello, little one.

Ah, found something? Oh yeah. Not too good.

It's hard work and quite far away.

It takes at least 25 minutes to drive through heavy traffic.

I'll try it out anyway.

Hey, I brought ground beef and potatoes and vegetables and I thought that ..

You are such a nice kid.

What would I do without you?

Cut it out. You know I like to do it.

Tomorrow, I start making money again.

But I can't live all the time on your earnings.

It's alright. They know in the neighbourhood that I'm helping you.

I feel bad about it. That's the last meal. I'm not kidding.

Shut up.

How do you feel?

Oh, it's alright.

I'll try tomorrow, and go out and make some money.

I need it.

Well.

Maybe the weather will be more considerate.

[ Door knocks ]

A busy day.

Who is it?

Ah, Mr Morrison.

Am I disturbing?

Read me your next line and I will tell you.

You see darling. Just what I told you.

Life is a play. Old-fashioned melodrama. The bad man coming to evict me.

Can we talk for a minute, Mr Valentine?

Oh, sure .. could you take Flip for his walk?

Oh, sure. Do me this favour.

I hope you'll feel better, Mr Valentine.

Goodbye.

Bye .. give my best regards to my noble, distinguished friends.

Come, Morrison. Sit down.

Sit down and .. sh**t.

You make me feel like a heel, Valentine.

But what can I do? I'm just in between.

The boss hollers at me: "get that Valentine out" if he can't pay.

You see .. he wants to rent the room to Books Incorporated.

They want to use it as a storage room.

It's been three weeks now you haven't paid.

Four.

And soon it will be five. Better not kid ourselves.

I can't promise you a thing.

You're an honest guy, Valentine.

But what can I do?

I thought you were well off.

I think you make a lot of dough.

Try lying down for a few weeks, and you'll see how fast it goes.

What do you intend to do? I've got my instructions.

Either get the cash, or I rent the place to Books Incorporated.

Give me another chance.

I'll try tomorrow.

Maybe it will be my lucky day.

Look at them. Don't they look alike? The man and the dog.

Look at the dog, and look at the man.

What's wrong? Hey, somebody give me a hand.

What's the matter Pop, you sick? No, it's alright.

Should we call an ambulance? Maybe we'd better.

No, no please don't. I really .. feel much better now.

Here comes a Cop.

Flip! Come up.

Oh.

I could feel Nemesis lying in wait.

Valentine, I'm heartbroken.

I can't tell you how I feel.

I couldn't sleep all night. I couldn't swallow my dinner.

I even thought of lending you the dough.

But my wife has got her hands on every penny.

I can't afford to lose my job.

You see, Morrison.

You do it so gently, so tenderly.

It is almost .. joy.

Even though I failed.

Alright.

I'll pack my things tonight.

A good job, Morrison.

You didn't overact your scene. Very nice. Very nice.

You see, Flip? We are moving.

Good morning, Miss Baxter.

Good morning.

What's this?

Where is Mr Valentine? Gone.

What do you mean, "gone"?

Gone. With the wind.

Do you mean he's ..? Oh no. He didn't die.

He just left. Books Incorporated is taking over. Storage, you know.

The poor fellow couldn't pay his rent, so ..

The boss kicked him out.

I can't believe it.

Where did he go? Search me.

Who is it? It's me, Helen. Please open.

What's so urgent in the middle of the night?

Excuse my waking you, but I'm very worried. Mr Valentine disappeared.

What do you mean "disappeared"? He moved out.

I don't blame him. It's a horrible place. I should do the same.

You don't understand. Not what I mean.

What is there to understand? You think it's fun to live in a stinking basement?

Who is it? You shut up.

Yes?

Please excuse my waking you, but I thought you may know about Mr Valentine.

Where he is?

No, you must have got the wrong idea.

He is not my type. Ha-ha.

Come here, Flip.

Near the market there will be something.

Nothing. Not a thing.

It's no use .. he didn't come back.

I called the Police again, and gave them a full description.

They ought to be able to find him anywhere. An old man with a dog.

They said they were looking for him already.

You shouldn't have done that. Why?

Because they'll lock him up.

But they can't. He hasn't done anything wrong.

For vagrancy, you little fool.

Now don't cry. That doesn't do any good.

We'll keep on looking.

Let's go.

Well.

If you want to know the truth, it's no difference to me. I'm finished anyway.

About thirty years ago, when I worked in a circus.

I fell in love. Madly.

A beautiful girl, about 20 years old. She was a bareback rider.

She liked me. I was funny and she liked to laugh.

There was a young guy there. Strong.

Big.

He lifted 200 pounds like that.

He was wild about her.

At first I was a bit jealous, but when I saw that she didn't care about me, I ..

I forgot all about it.

One day .. out of the clear sky.

She asked me if I would marry her.

I was out of my mind with joy.

What a wedding.

With all the artists and clowns.

Right in the ring. You know.

Elephants and horses and ..

And lions.

And then the Minister asked the big question.

And I answered "I do".

I was so overwhelmed that I ..

I couldn't resist to make a somersault.

It was a riot.

Then one day when she came to tell me that she was going to have a baby.

I just knelt down and ..

Cried.

One evening.

I couldn't find my little daughter. She was nowhere.

Not in the wagon and nowhere. So I was a little .. disturbed.

I looked everywhere and then I ..

All of a sudden.

I passed some cages and I hear some whispering.

It was her voice.

And I ..

Came closer.

She and that .. weightlifter.

And they kissed.

And prayed.

And then I found out that ..

He was married.

The whole thing was clear to me.

We had a baby together. That was good enough .. to play the fool.

Finally.

One night, she was asleep.

Oh, she looked so beautiful.

So clean.

So innocent.

Tenderly I ..

I kissed her on her forehead and then I put my hands on her soft ..

And beautiful neck.

My hands became ..

Heavier.

And heavier.

I have forgot the lines.

You know, it was 30 years ago when I played it.

Well .. it was a good melodrama but a tearjerker.

You know I forgot you were just performing. I thought it was so real.

Mr Valentine.

You are the biggest faker I know.

Foxie, you are too kind. What is it?

He's got a warm nose and he's shaking all over.

Say, I don't want to scare you but this Flip is sick.

I ought to know something about dogs. I worked on a dog farm for eleven years.

You mean ..? Sure.

A dog like this needs good care, a home and food. He's not a youngster any more.

Right, he will be 10 in March.

A dumb animal needs care. He's not a human being.

We can stand a lot but this ..

You mean, he might die?

Sure. Just like that. You'd better do something about it.

You are right.

He needs good food.

A decent home.

A warm place.

Good care.

You are right.

Don't make it difficult for me.

I know what I'm doing.

It's not the end of the world.

People have to part.

Lovers .. parents .. children.

Oh, it's you again.

Sorry. No party today. Yeah, I know.

But .. could I talk to Mr Hawkins?

I mean, the old man.

Well, I'm sorry. He isn't home.

Can I do anything? You know he ..

He wanted to buy the dog, and I wanted to ask him ..

If the offer still stands.

Changed your mind?

Yes.

Don't you know when he'll be back?

No, but I could talk to Mrs Hawkins about it.

What was the price?

It doesn't make any difference.

The main thing is that he gets a nice home and ..

Good care, and good food, and affection.

I'm sure that little Charlie will like him.

Well, I'll ask her.

Cut it out.

Leave me alone.

You can't bribe me.

I've got my own troubles. I must take care of myself.

Well, it's true.

If you want to know, I ..

I don't care for you anymore.

Don't look at me.

Things like this can happen.

You are becoming a burden to me.

I don't want you anymore.

Well, Mrs Hawkins wasn't too happy about it.

But she said it'll be alright.

All we could scratch together is 37 dollars.

That's alright.

Can you open the gate? Yes.

Won't he bite me? No, no. Don't worry, don't worry.

And just go, go. As quick as you can.

And don't turn around.

But you forgot to take the money. Oh, thank you.

And go!

And .. take good care of him.

He likes a lot of milk.

And carrots.

And ground beef.

And soup bowls.

And a lot of affection.

You see, Charlie? Look how nicely he behaves.

Best we leave him for a while until he gets used to us and then he'll be right.

Flip, get up.

Mom, why won't he get up?

There's no reason, darling. We'll just have to be patient. That's all.

Maybe tomorrow.

I tell you what.

Let's watch Boo-Boo Monster on television.

Alright?

Alright. Alright.

No, no Flip.

Flip, you'll have to stay right here.

It's alright, Flip.

George, you'd better put him on a leash. Yes, ma'am.

If you don't mind.

I can't eat it.

Won't you finish it?

Go ahead.

It's no use. The dog is sick.

Maybe it would be best to give him back to the man.

No, no.

Charlie, stop crying.

Mummy means that we should find the man and bring him here.

You should have asked for his address.

It never occurred to me, sir.

I'm terribly sorry.

I know. I drove him home once, sir.

That's right.

Well, get hold of him.

Sorry sir. But he doesn't live there. How do you know?

I happen to know a girl that lives in the same house, sir.

She was the one that told me he had left, but nobody knows where.

Oh, that's too bad.

Now we have a dog that doesn't eat.

And doesn't want to do his tricks.

It can't be so difficult to get hold of him.

He couldn't have disappeared from the earth.

You always forget to close the door, you lazy good-for-nothing.

Oh, Mr Valentine. I am so glad to see you.

Your little friend Helen was desperately looking for you.

I know. That's why I came.

Where does she live?

This one.

I think she works late.

But you can wait in here in my place. Come in.

Hi, neighbour.

Hi.

Come in.

Sit down.

You look like a ghost. What happened?

I'm a little tired.

This chest, you know.

And then .. I got a little bit drunk.

Do you want some strong black coffee? That will sober you up.

If I wanted to be sober, I wouldn't drink.

Are you unhappy?

Oh no. I'm extremely happy.

Unattached .. free.

By myself and for myself.

Oh. Where is your doggy?

I got rid of him.

You're kidding.

No, it's the truth.

You see, I'm not sentimental.

I needed to go.

Life is tough.

There is no time for ..

Stupid emotions.

You are a phony.

What kind of passion is that?

Why shouldn't he sell a mongrel like that for five hundred bucks?

You'd sell your mother for five bucks, you.

Aren't you going to wait for the girl?

The girl?

I must go.

She'll be upset. Why don't you leave her your new address?

Oh, my address.

Here, have a drink. It will pep you up.

Where are you going?

Well, tell her I ..

I will call her in the morning.

I'll come ..

Whether I'm ill or not.

Poor guy. He must be sick.

He looks like he has a fever.

Don't worry about him.

He's got lots of dough.

He can take care of himself.

Where are you going?

I promised Smoky. What did you promise Smokey?

It's none of your business. It's between us men.

A secret?

Oh .. leave me alone. I promised him.

Ah, what's the difference?

Just ten minutes ago you said we'll go to a movie.

I forgot. I'll be back in an hour or so.

Billy, come back.

He's not inside. What happened?

Quick. I'll tell you everything. Wait.

Let's try this way.

Got a cigarette, buddy?

You shouldn't ask.

A waste of your time.

A cigarette is all you are going to get out of me.

See that guy over there?

No.

That old man that just passed you.

That old hobo?

That old hobo has got five hundred bucks on him.

You want a part of it?

Being funny, huh?

Want to split?

Smart guy.

Why do want to split with me? Charity?

I can't do it myself. He'd know right away. I know the guy.

Come on.

What's the matter? Don't you feel well, Pop?

Oh, I'm alright.

Maybe tired, from carrying such a wad?

Yeah, yeah.

Maybe I can help you. Where is it?

What? The dough.

Oh, a holdup?

I am quite flattered.

It doesn't happen every day to a tr*mp like me.

Come on. I've got a date.

You've got a good excuse.

"Excuse me, darling."

"I am sorry I am late. I was held up by a holdup."

Cut it out.

I'm not very good at jokes.

Thirty-two bucks.

I had more but I didn't know .. Where's the rest?

That's all I've got.

Look, Pop.

I wouldn't like to hurt you. Where is the five hundred bucks?

Oh ..

You got bad information.

That's all I've got. So help me.

Cut it out. Put our hands away.

Look, I'm .. leave me! Leave me alone!

Hey you! Come here.

Search him. I can't find it.

Don't give me that. Where is the dough?

[ Sounds of fighting ]

I knew it. His hat.

Now we'll call the Police. Police!

At the front of the caf�, right at that corner.

Mr Valentine!

Mr Valentine. Mr Valentine!

Oh, Mr Valentine. What have they done to you?

Hold on. I'll call an ambulance.

No. Please.

Take me to ..

To my friends.

I'll show you the way.

You must get to a hospital immediately.

No .. please.

Take me .. to my ..

Friends.

Oh, it's so beautiful, here.

With all the windows wide open.

It is so much clearer.

With the high ceiling.

With all the stars looking down.

What a set.

What scenery.

God is a great Director.

Don't cry, darling.

I've been an old ham all my life.

What can be greater for an actor than a ..

Death scene.

So don't spoil it for me.

I don't cry in my lines.

Flip.

Flip.

He's dead.

He's dead.

"Finished?"

`"0h no."

"Love is stronger than that."

"Love .. is eternal."

God.

Let me show you a few tricks.

[ Thunderclap! ]

I beg your pardon?

Oh, I understand. I'm not supposed to be funny.

I am sorry.

Well, Lord .. what is the verdict?

[ Celestial music ]

Did you hear, Flip?

An eternal life contract.

With no options.

Does it go for my partner, too?

[ Celestial music ]

Thank you.