"Ninochka" movie script
Text/[United States] C. Brackett, B. Wilder, W. Reisch
Translated by: Cai Xiaosong
The story of this film took place in that beautiful era. At that time, "Silena" (note: the word has two meanings: siren and cold beauty) meant a dark-skinned beauty, not an air raid alarm... At that time, the Parisians did not turn off the lights because they were afraid of bombs!
Fade in-a city view that can be recognized at a glance: Paris in April.
In the luxurious lobby of the "Clarence" Hotel, the revolving door turns from the outside. Someone walked in, he was obviously not local. This is Comrade Bryanov, a member of the Russian Chamber of Commerce. In this warm season in Paris, he still wears a Russian-style outfit: a coat with a fur collar, a leather hat, and winter shoes.
He looked around, shocked by the grandeur of the hall. The porter greeted him, and he was no less surprised by this strange dress than the visitors.
Concierge (respectfully): What can I do for you, sir?
Bryanov: Nothing, nothing.
He hurriedly opened the door and left. The porter straightened up. Then another Russian came in from the street. He is also dressed up and looking around. This is Comrade Ilanov.
Concierge (coming to him curiously): Please give your instructions, sir.
Ilanov: I'll just take a look.
He also slipped away. The concierge returned to its place again, but at this time the third visitor was brought in by the turnstile, his attire was exactly the same as the previous two. This is Kopalski. He kept walking under his feet, looking at the hall while following the turnstile to go out.
A taxi stopped on the sidewalk. Bryanov and Iranov stood by the car, with a large suitcase at their feet. Kopalski walked over.
Kopalski: Comrades, why speak without conscience? This restaurant is simply amazing.
Ilanov: To be honest, do we have such a place in Russia?
The three people said in unison: No! no! no!
Ilanov: Can you imagine what the bed in this hotel looks like?
Kopalski: Others told me that as long as you press the bell once, a waiter will come in. Double-click-the waiter in the restaurant is here. Do you know what will happen if you press it three times? A waitress! A French woman!
Ilanov (eyes bright): Comrades, if we ring the bell nine times... let's go!
Three Russians walked into the lobby of the "Clarence" Hotel. Two of them carried a lonely box, and the other walked to the porter.
Kopalski: Are you the porter?
Concierge (looking at them suspiciously): Exactly.
Kopalski: Allow me to introduce you a member of the Russian Chamber of Commerce, Comrade Ilanov.
The porter bowed reservedly.
Ilanov: This is Comrade Kopalski.
Bryanov: I am Comrade Bryanov. May I ask, what is your room rate here?
Concierge (just want to get rid of these three people as soon as possible): Gentlemen, I'm afraid our house price is very expensive.
Bryanov: Are you afraid? What's so scary about you?
The other two nodded in agreement.
Concierge (look at their box): I would like to help you. Do you have any other luggage?
Ilanov: Yes, yes. Can you find a safe and put this box?
Concierge: I'm afraid there is not such a big safe in the storage room.
Ilanov: This is better.
Concierge: But I'm afraid, gentlemen...
Bryanov: He is always afraid of this and that!
Ilanov and Kopalski nodded.
Concierge (initiating a fire): I just want to explain clearly. The room is of course impeccable-but I don't know if it is your heart... You know this is a royal suite.
Buryanov: Royal suite? ! Wait a minute.
The three Russians walked to the side and discussed it. Their foreheads were almost stuck together.
Bryanov (lows his voice): Comrades, I warn first! If Moscow knew that we were living in the royal suite, it wouldn't be enough to eat!
Ilanov (want to live comfortably): Then let's say, we want suites all for the safe. This reason is completely credible! We said that there are no other safes.
The partners happily agreed.
Bryanov and Kopalski: Smart! smart!
Bryanov (suspected again): But no one prevents us from dividing things into three or four parts and putting them in the storage room? So I can have a smaller room. What, is this bad idea?
It seems that this dream of a better life is about to come to nothing. Ilanov cleared the siege.
Ilanov: The idea is good, but who knows, we thought about it before?
Bryanov and Kopalski (happily): Yes! good!
Bryanov (turning to the porter): We want the royal suite.
The porter led them to the elevator. Two Russians dragged the box.
Royal suite. The Russian opened the door of the large safe and stuffed the box in. Then Kopalski walked to the telephone.
There is a waiter setting a table in the middle of the room, and it's time for breakfast. This is a Russian expat, former Earl Rakkonen.
Kopalski (to the microphone): Please pick me up Mr. Merchier... Yes, it's the jeweler.
Rakkonen listened intently.
Kopalski: I want to talk to Mr. Messier himself... Mr. Messier? Hello. This is Kopalski from the Russian Chamber of Commerce. Yes, I arrived this morning...Thank you.
Rakkonen set the table while listening to the conversation with interest.
Kopalski: Yes. It's all here. The gem necklace is also there. A total of fourteen pieces of jewelry...what? ...No, Mr. Messier. The jewels of Grand Duke Swana are 14 pieces. Can you check... Authorization? Of course, we have authorization. We also bring the power of attorney.
Kopalski continued to say something, but Rakonen galloped down the stairs, buttoning his coat as he ran.
He ran into the street and called a taxi.
Rakkonen (to the taxi driver): No. 8 Rue de Salon.
No. 8 Salon Street is a Parisian building with many rooms. A typical Parisian playboy, Count Leon Darcourt, walked through the door.
A maid opened the door of Grand Duke Swana's room.
Maid: Good morning! count!
Leon (like he is in his own home): Good morning!
Maid: Your Highness hasn't changed clothes yet.
Leon: This is not surprising.
He went into the bedroom. Swana was sitting at the dressing table in her dressing gown.
Swana: Hello, Leon.
Leon (kissing her carelessly like an old friend): Good morning, Swana!
Swana: Okay? Terrible morning, it was terrible! I couldn't wake up. The whole body seemed to fall apart...and this shining light! How can I destroy it? Think about it, Leon. I'm so tired of my face! It's best to have another face. If you could choose, what kind of face would you choose? ...Ah, forget it. Probably, what a person is worthy of looks like, he has what kind of face.
In this long speech, Leon sat down, lit a cigarette and read the newspaper, paying little attention to Svana's nagging.
Leon: It was interesting talking to you, Swana. You ask a lot of questions, but don't wait for others to answer them.
Swana: That's great, isn't it? ...You didn't come here yesterday. why?
Leon: My dear, I'll take care of your business.
Swana: What are the results?
Leon (inspired): Please forget about gambling, forget about horse racing, and forget about stocks! Now we don't have to worry about anything. Do you remember that small white gold watch with diamond numbers? You will give it to me soon.
Swana (wittily): Oh, Leon, how kind of you are!
Gave him a kiss.
Leon: As long as you say-we will be rich. I had lunch with Gizo yesterday.
Swana (confusedly): With that reporter?
Leon: You can't believe how many savvy people have lunch with Gizo.
Swana: This can only show how people are afraid of public opinion.
Leon: Listen, Swana. I gave Mr. Gizo an idea-to publish your memoir in the "Sunday", titled "The Life and Love of Grand Duke Swana".
Swana (protest): Oh, Leon...
Leon: My dear, if you are willing to turn over your past, we won't have to worry about the future.
Swana: Then why did I refuse to advertise Dr. Betra's toothpaste? As long as I say, the Visavitsky vacuum cleaner-the only vacuum cleaner ever used by the Romanov family, I can earn a lot of money. But you want to add my secrets to the tabloid newspaper!
Leon: I understand you very well, but there must be a sense of measure in everything. Such as personal self-esteem, decent... they promised to pay any price! Their circulation is two million copies!
Swana: Imagine: those two million small clerks and sales clerks can make a comment on my private life with just one Su. Think of using the cheese and small enema from my wonderful autobiography package! I have already seen a big grease stain on my privacy.
Leon (knowing which string should be played now): I just want to persuade you. But don't be arrogant... if this is your final decision-think about the consequences (he looks like he is about to jump into the abyss). I have to find a job.
This sentence is immediate. Swana stood up and walked to Leon.
Swana: My little tracker... Stop scaring me, I shouldn't be like this. (Hugging him) Aren't you my little tracker?
Leon: Look at you, Swana...
Swana: No, you say first: Are you my little tracker?
Leon (just want to get rid of her): Yes, yes, I am your little tracker.
Swana (back to the dressing table): Hmm...Two million readers...I know what they want to see. Chapter 1: "Childhood in a golden cage. The charming little princess plays with...beard."
Leon (re-energized): Or like this...this is what I came up with. Gizo thinks this is first-rate at the beginning. (Sit next to her) "...and blood. Swana escaped on the ice."
Swana: It's better to add two hounds, it is simply "Uncle Tom's Cabin".
Leon (he thinks of a new idea again): Maybe this is better... You said, have you ever met Bolsheviks? Not once?
Swana (thinking about it hard): Bolsheviks...no. Haven't encountered it.
Leon: What a pity. Nine thousand words are missing at once.
There was a knock on the door.
Swana: Please come in.
Maid (coming in): Count Rakkonen begged to see the Grand Duchess.
Leon: Count Rakkonen?
Swana: The waiter at the "Clarence" Hotel. You should know this unfortunate man.
Leon: Ah, yes.
Swana (to the maid): Please tell him that I can only see him in half an hour.
Maid: The count begs you-try to be as fast as possible. It is lunch time in the restaurant, and he temporarily left between the first and second dishes.
The maid went out. Swana also walked to the living room. This is a pleasant room, miraculously permeated with the style of the imperialist-Russian era.
Swana (without closing the door): Hello, my friend.
Rakkonen greeted her respectfully, just as the grand duke used to be in her palace.
Rakkonen: Your Highness! Please forgive me for visiting, but...
Swana: What happened? You were fired?
Rakkonen: No... Your Highness! It is a very important thing. It has to do with your diamond.
Swana: My diamond?
Rakkonen: I remember that on the birthday of the emperor beloved by the whole country, I was fortunate enough to serve as a guard next to the Winter Palace. Everything on that day is vividly visible: you bowed to your majesty, and you wore a crown and a necklace of precious stones. Your face is shining in the light of diamonds.
Swana (confused): Why do you suddenly think of this? How many years ago it happened!
Rakkonen: They are here! Your diamond is here, in Paris!
Swana: Alexey! Are you crazy?
Rakkonen: Three Soviet representatives came over this morning. I secretly heard them talking with the jeweler Messier. Your Highness, they plan to sell the diamonds!
Leon (appears at the bedroom door): Did I hear it wrong? Are you talking about diamonds?
Swana: Rakonen, God bless him, bring an amazing news. (Walking to the phone, speaking to the receiver) 27-6-9, Balzac Street. (To Leon) I want to call my lawyer.
Leon leaned forward enthusiastically.
Rakkonen: Please forgive me, I have to rush back.
Swana: I am so grateful to you, my friend! I will keep you informed if there is news.
Count Rakkonen left the room.
Swana (to the microphone): I'm Grand Duke Swana. I want to find Mr. Kernian... if there is something important, please urge him... Mr. Kernian, right? An incredible thing happened. My diamond is now in Paris! ...There are three Bolshevik pigs here who want to sell them...Yes, yes...You must act now! Please call the police station and arrest them... well, then this deal is prohibited. Something must be done! (Hearing the opposition from the other party) But this is my diamond! mine! In any case, I have to take them back!
Leon (as excited as Swana): What did he say?
Swana: Hush! (To the microphone) What's the problem? Whose lawyer are you on earth-mine or theirs? ...Well, I will contact you again.
She put down the phone. It is difficult for her to understand these legal subtleties.
Leon: What did he say? what did he say?
Swana (disheartenedly): It seems that there is little hope. He said-there are opportunities, nothing more. Because the French government has recognized the Soviet power. He suspected that the French would provoke armed conflict for me. He will try his best to win this lawsuit, but it requires money, money, money...These lawyers recognize money!
Leon (hugging her): Honey, don't get excited. What do you want a lawyer for? You still have your little tracker.
Swana looked at him, the light of hope rekindled in front of her eyes.
Into: diamonds placed on the table in the royal suite.
The jeweler Messier has a magnifying glass over his eyes, critically identifying diamonds. Three Russians stood beside them in a semicircle. Messier was a polite and polite gentleman, but he was a bit tricky when starting a business.
Messier (raising his head): Very good. Beautiful-this is beyond doubt. But your price is unrealistic. My price is the highest price!
Kopalski: But, Mr. Mesier...
Messier (ignore): Gentlemen, I tell you a little secret. I came to talk about this deal entirely out of my personal prestige, and it is definitely me who will suffer.
Ilanov pulled Bryanov aside and leaned in his ear.
Ilanov (in a low voice): Capitalist tricks! They are always clamoring at a loss, but in fact they are holding a lot of money.
the phone is ringing.
Bryanov (pick up the microphone): Hello...Yes, we are Bryanov, Ilanov and Kopalski...who? Lord Dargu? ...No, no, maybe it was a mistake. We are very busy now.
Messier: I advise you, no one will pay more than our company. In any case, the current economic situation is like this.
Kopalski: We can wait a little longer.
Ilanov (holding up the air): Are we like poor people?
Messier: Like. Gentlemen, the cards are on the table. In the last few days, Russian representatives are preparing to sell fifteen Rembrandt oil paintings in New York; the business delegation in London has mortgaged the oil fields in Baku. You need money, so urgently! But I don't want to take advantage of others, I quoted you a good price.
Kopalski: Wait a minute (three Russians walk aside).
Ilanov (lows his voice): He is threatening us!
Bryanov: Is there any way, I have to listen to him.
Kopalski: Comrades! Comrades! We cannot surrender right away. We must defend the honor of Russia!
Bryanov: Well, we'll give in in ten minutes.
Someone knocked on the door. Ilanov turned the key and opened the door slightly. Leon poked his head through the crack in the door.
Ilanov: We have already said not to disturb...
Leon squeezed into the room and walked to Mesier.
Several Russians blocked the diamonds with their bodies to prevent him from seeing them, and hid the diamonds in the safe while they were talking.
Leon: Mr. Mechier, please allow me to introduce myself. Count Leon Dargu. I think I was fortunate enough to meet you in your shop. I am very optimistic about the white gold watch with diamond numbers.
Messier: Ah, yes, yes.
Leon (looks at the diamond): It's good, isn't it?
Kopalski: But sir, what right do you have...
Leon (with a seductive smile): Please wait a moment. (To the jeweler) I hope you haven't made a deal yet? This may get you in trouble.
The three Russians said in unison: What's the matter? ! who are you? ! ...What do you want to do? !
Leon: These diamonds...are the private property of Grand Duke Swana. They were illegally seized by the Soviet government... On behalf of Her Royal Highness, the Grand Duchess. This is my authorization letter.
He handed the document to the jeweler, and Messier read it carefully.
Ilanov: Mr. Messier, this is nonsense!
Kopalski: Maybe these stones once belonged to the Grand Duke, but as private property, they have been confiscated by the state.
Leon: Let the French court decide who the diamond belongs to. Right now I have submitted a statement regarding the prohibition on the sale and shipment of these jewels...this is a copy.
The Russian looked at the copy, panicked.
Leon (turns to the jeweler): I have an obligation to remind you that this is not intended to make you unhappy.
Messier: Thank you. (Turns to the three Russians) Gentlemen, this has brought a new situation to our negotiations. Before everything is resolved through legal procedures...
Kopalski: You can call our ambassador!
Ilanov: I swear to you that diamonds were confiscated by legal means.
Messier: I ask you not to get me wrong. I did not retract my offer. Once the French court allows it, the transaction is established. But now—bye.
He bowed and walked towards the gate. Leon escorted him to the door and opened the door for him, as if he was the owner.
Leon (confidently): I hope you can forgive me, Mr. Mechier.
Messier (in a low voice): On the contrary, I think I'm too lucky. Goodbye (Farewell).
Leon: Goodbye, Mr. Mesier.
He closed the door and turned to face the three Russians. The three were furious.
Leon (briskly): Okay, gentlemen... how about something to eat?
Ilanov: Get out!
Leon: Why is it so powerful, gentlemen? You haven't lost everything. You still have a chance.
Kopalski (angrily): We? We still have a chance?
Leon: Yes. The chance is small, but there is after all. I do not deny: you will definitely gain something in court.
Kopalski: We don't want to discuss this issue with you. We are going to find a lawyer.
Leon: Then please. You look for a lawyer, I go to the court.
Ilanov: This will not help you. We can't be frightened!
Kopalski: Behind us is the powerful Soviet state.
Bryanov: Do you think that if you represent the interests of the former duchess...
Leon: Grand Duke.
Bryanov: It's a former grandfather.
Leon: Whatever you call her, she is so beautiful and graceful. Let me remind you: If this matter goes to court, this is also a French court. As long as the Grand Duke appears before the judge...
Ilanov: Well, let's assume. Even if she stood in front of the judge. What can she say to them?
Leon: But what impression will she leave on the judges! Her fashionable attire is so fit. Gentlemen, the judge will be French, the jurors — French, and the entire audience — French too. Have you ever been to a French court to hear a trial? Have you seen what happens when a beautiful woman gently lifts her skirt and sits on a chair? But what about you, sit down as soon as you pull your trouser legs-what can it bring you?
Ilanov: You seem to want us to give you the diamonds?
Leon: Oh, no, no. I am not a robber on the side of the road. I'm just someone who wants to give you some trouble, and try to make you trouble as much as possible.
Bryanov: Don't you think we will give in. But I still want to know, what is your idea?
Leon: So, how about my suggestion, gentlemen?
Kopalski: What advice?
Leon: Something to eat. (Grabbing the phone) The restaurant?
The corridor of the "Clarence" Hotel. Two waiters pushed a dining car to the door of the royal suite. On the ice cubes are black caviar and many exquisite snacks. The dining table disappeared behind the door. Bryanov, Ilanov, and Kopalski praised from the room.
A few seconds later, a very beautiful cigarette seller walked into the room. The cheers were louder. Two more waiters walked into the room afterwards. One is holding champagne, and the other is holding a tray with glasses. The cigarette seller rushed out happily, dashed in the corridor, and ran down the stairs.
The waiters shuttled back and forth. Some people came out of the room, and some brought in various snacks. The cigarette seller ran up the stairs breathlessly, followed by two girls. The three rushed into the royal suite, and there was cheers from inside. fade out.
It is already brightly lit. In the room, a five-piece band from Vienna is playing national instruments. The dulcimer music is melodious. The three Russians got drunk and danced with the girls. One of them also hung a cigarette tray on his body. This is a harmless, but noisy party. Leon sat behind the desk, far away from the crowd, not caring about the noise around him. There is a telegraph in front of him.
Leon: Hi, Savitskisha, Chersh, Misha!
The three of them were enraged and walked towards him together.
Kopalski: What's the matter, Leon?
Ilanov (holding Leon in his arms): What's the matter, boy?
Leon: I want to talk about sending a telegram to Moscow. Why do you bother with these little things? I have already written it.
Buryanov: Leon! Leonecka! (Hugging him) Why are you so good?
He kissed Leon, and Ilanov did the same.
Ilanov: Leon, my boy...
Kopalski (coming up): Ah! Leon, you are so kind!
Leon (want to get rid of their embrace): What is the last name of the member of this chamber of commerce?
Ilanov: Rajinen.
Leon (writes): "Moscow, Chamber of Commerce, Comrade Razinin received".
Kopalski: You probably won't like him.
Bryanov: He is a bad guy. He sent others to Siberia.
Ilanov: We don't like Razhnin.
Bryanov (want to climb over and hug him again): But we like you, Leon. Is it true that we all like Leon?
Ilanov and Kopalski: I like it! We like Leonecka!
It was another Russian intimacy. Leon struggled to stand up.
Leon: What do you think of this telegram? (Reading): "Moscow, Chamber of Commerce, Razinen Committee. An unexpected trouble has occurred. The Grand Duke Swana is now in Paris and has announced the ownership of the jewelry. It has been ordered to ban the sale and shipment. We have carefully studied the situation, The conclusion is as follows: the best way for our dear motherland is to agree to give her 50%. Ilanov, Bryanov and Koparsky."
Kopalski: Leon, if we send this telegram, we will also be sent to Siberia.
Ilanov: If we go to Siberia...
Leon (with a telegram in his hand): Then I will send you a pair of hand warmers.
Bryanov: You are so kind!
Ilanov and Kopalski: You are special and very good!
The three men jumped on Leon again, and embraced him. At this moment Rakkonen brought a few more bottles of champagne. They let go of Leon, ran over and embraced Rakkonen and kissed him.
Three people: Comrade waiter, our little waiter! Why are you so good?
When Rakkonen filled his glass with champagne, Leon dragged him aside.
Leon: Send this telegram to the post office immediately.
Rakkonen: Okay, sir.
He walked out of the room and dashed down the corridor, reading the telegram as he ran.
Dissolve: a telegraph strip on a Russian background.
Dissolve: Telegraph strips over Moscow.
In the office of the state agency. Rajinin stood by the window with the telegram in his hand. He is an authentic Bolshevik, a soldier. What he read made him furious. He crumpled the letter paper into a ball and looked ahead. His expression does not seem to make Bryanov, Ilanov, and Kopalski any good fruit. fade out.
fade in. "Clarence', the corridor of the hotel. The elevator door opened and three Russians came out. Now they are well-dressed, as if they are regulars in the racecourse, they just came back from the race. Two of them are still watching the show. Telescope.
The three people walked into the royal suite.
The phone rang. Ilanov grabbed the microphone.
Ilanov: Yes, Leon (a little excited) What does this mean, Leon? This kind of thing can't be hasty. Give Moscow some time to think about it. Neither of us can make a film...Can you come to us later? ...
He walked into another room. Bryanov rushed forward.
Bryanov: Misha!
Ilanov: What happened?
Bryanov: Telegram from Moscow. It has been here all day.
Kopalski walked over and read the telegram: "The negotiations were immediately suspended. The special envoy arrived at 6:10 on Thursday. Your authorization will be revoked upon seeing the letter. Razinin."
Ilanov: Thursday—it’s today.
Bryanov: It's five to forty.
They rushed into the bedroom.
Kopalski: I have always said that Siberia is our home.
Dissolve: "Clarence" Hotel. The porter stood at his post. Ilanov, Bryanov, and Kopalski ran out of the elevator. Ilanov stopped beside the porter, and the other two waited for him outside the gate.
Ilanov (to the porter): There is a special envoy from Moscow. He wants to live in the royal suite and move our things to the smallest room you can find here.
Concierge: Everything goes according to plan, sir.
Ilanov: Everything must be done, immediately.
Bryanov and Kopalski (calling impatiently at the door): Ilanov!
Ilanov: Here comes, here (rushes to the door)!
Dissolve: Paris train station. The train has just arrived. Three people galloped on the platform. They neither knew the name of the envoy, nor what he looked like. They looked at the oncoming passengers one by one, trying to guess.
Ilanov: What a beautiful job! Maybe we have missed him.
Kopalski: How can you find someone who doesn't know what he looks like?
Ilanov pointed to a man with a big beard and a backpack.
Ilanov: This is probably him.
Bryanov: Yes, this man is like a Soviet comrade.
They leaned towards the beard, but before they could talk to him, a German girl ran forward. The two raised their hands in a Nazi salute and said hello.
Bearded and girl: Hi, Hitler!
They hug together. The three people froze in place.
Kopalski: No, it's not him.
Bryanov: Well, it's not him.
The people on the platform were almost gone. The three people looked around helplessly, and saw a woman who was also looking around, as if looking for someone. This is Ninochka Yakusova, a special envoy sent by the Chamber of Commerce.
The three exchanged agitated glances, and walked towards her together. Ninochka also walked towards him.
Ninochka: I am looking for Mikhail Simonov Ilanov.
Ilanov: Mikhail Simonov Iranov-it is under.
Ninochka: This is Ninochka Ivanovna Yakusova. Commissioner Rajinin sent to find your special envoy. Please introduce me to your colleague.
They shook hands one by one. Nino Chikana's hand strength is not inferior to that of men.
Ilanov: This is Comrade Bryanov.
Ninochka: Hello, comrade.
Ilanov: This is Comrade Kopalski.
Ninochka: Hello, comrade.
Ilanov: What an unexpected surprise! Moscow sent us a lady!
Kopalski: If they inform us in advance, we will come to welcome you with flowers.
Ninochka (seriously): I'm a woman, but that doesn't explain any problems. We are working here. Four people together. Please don't waste any more time. Let's go
The three were at a loss. Ninochka bent over and picked up her two boxes.
Ilanov: Porter!
Porter (running over): Please let me come?
Ninochka: What do you want to do?
Porter: Please let me get the box for you, ma'am?
Ninochka: Why?
Kopalski: He is a porter. He will remove the box.
Ninochka (to the porter): Why? Why do you want to carry boxes for others?
Porter: Is this... this is my job, ma'am.
Ninochka: This is not work. This-is exploitation.
Porter: It depends on the tip.
Kopalski (want to help her carry the suitcase): Please let me come, comrade.
Ninochka: Thank you, no need.
She grabbed two boxes, turned around and left surrounded by three people. Every word the special envoy said added to their anxiety.
Bryanov: Is there any news in Moscow?
Ninochka: Everything is normal. The recent public trial went very smoothly. Now the population has decreased, but the rest are good comrades.
The three men were terrified.
Fade in: "Clarence" hotel lobby. Ninochka walked through the hall accompanied by her companions. Every detail did not escape her eyes. She stopped suddenly. Behind the glass of the shop window was a fashionable millinery.
Ninochka: What is this?
Kopalski: Hat, comrade, a millinery.
Ninochka (shaking his head): So that's it... If women wear this kind of stuff on their heads, how can civilization be preserved? The end is coming, comrades!
Fade in: Royal Suite. Ninochka walked into the room. The three Russians were panicked.
Bryanov: We prepared this suite for you, Comrade Yakusova. hope you'll like it.
Ninochka (looking at the luxurious room): Where in this room is mine?
Ilanov: Look... this is not the same as ours. Their rooms are not rented out in parts. It takes the entire room.
Ninochka: How much is this room?
Ilanov: Two thousand francs.
Ninochka: One week?
Ilanov: One day.
Ninochka: But do you know how much a cow is, Comrade Bryanov?
Ilanov: A cow?
Ninochka: Two thousand francs. If I live here for a week, it will cost the Soviet people the price of seven cows. (Voice passionately) But who am I, how can I take the seven cows of the people?
Bryanov: We only wanted this suite for the safe. We opened a small room next to...
Ninochka (takes out the Lenin statue from the box): I am ashamed that I even put the Lenin statue in this room. (Puts the picture frame on the desk) Comrades, your telegram makes Moscow extremely dissatisfied.
Kopalski: We did everything we could, comrade.
Ninochka: I hope so. This is also for your good. (Sitting at the table, preparing to make a report) Let's start with legal affairs. What did the lawyer say?
Bryanov: What lawyer?
Ninochka: You didn't find a lawyer?
Bryanov: We didn't want to deal with lawyers. It is very expensive to hire a lawyer here. Just to say hello to them, you have to spend a cow's money-ho.
Kopalski: We contacted the representative of the Grand Duke. I think if he is called, he will explain everything to you immediately.
Ninochka: I will not make the same mistake you made again: I neither want to meet with the Grand Duke, nor with her representatives.
She continued typing. The three men stared at her fearfully. Every time she tapped-it was like hitting their hearts.
Ninochka (lifting her head): Comrade Bryanov.
Bryanov: What, comrade.
Ninochka: How do you spell "Bryanov" in French? Two "f"s behind?
Bryanov (terrified): Can write two.
Ninochka returned to work, then turned to Ilanov. Ilanov straightened her tie embarrassedly, and suddenly realized that she was looking at the beautiful double shoe covers on her feet, and she forgot to take it off in a hurry. It was too late to take remedial measures now-he had to hide one foot behind the other. The sound of typing is getting louder and louder. Ninochka reached out and grabbed the phone.
Ninochka (to the microphone): Please bring me cigarettes. (Stands up) Comrades, it is not me who will judge you. But at the very least, you are negligent of the tasks assigned by the country. (Sternly denounced) Your task is not just to sell jewelry. Why should we go abroad to sell our treasures? The crops next year are very dangerous! You all know this. If we do not have hard currency to buy tractors, our people will go hungry. But you, comrades...
Kopalski: Our motivation is good.
Ninochka: Your motives cannot fill the stomachs of the Soviet people. Give 50% to this so-called grandfather! Divide each piece of bread into half and give it to the enemy! Comrade Kopalski, go to the embassy right away and get the address of the best lawyer in Paris.
Kopalski: Let's go, comrade.
Ninochka: And you, Comrade Ilanov, please go to the public library and help me find the chapter on private property in the National Code.
Bryanov: So what can I do for you, comrade?
Ninochka: You can get me a detailed plan of the city of Paris. If I have time, I would like to visit the municipal transportation and other technical achievements.
Bryanov: Okay, comrade.
There was a knock on the door.
Ninochka: Please come in.
Three girls come in-the girl who sells cigarettes.
Girls: Hello! Hello Who wants the cigarette?
Ninochka looked at them in surprise. When the girls saw her, they were stunned. All three of them closed their mouths and said nothing.
Ninochka (looking at the two of them): Comrades, it seems that you have smoked too much.
Fade into the lobby of the "Clarence" Hotel. night. The phone rang. The porter picked up the receiver.
Concierge: Yes, Mr. Kopalski. (Record with pen) You are waiting...Earl Dargu...um...um...but he can't go to the royal suite anyway. Let him go to your newly moved room 985. Thank you, sir.
Ninochka appeared in the hall almost at the same time. Naturally, she didn't know the content of the call. She has a floor plan of Paris in her hand.
Concierge: Good evening.
Ninochka: Good evening (to the door).
Ninoch was stuck in the street. She opened the map, and we saw the exquisite "Clarence" restaurant and the safe island on the street painted on the map.
On the real safe island, not the one drawn on the map, Ninochka met Leon: he was crossing the street to the hotel. The two passed by indifferently and walked in their respective directions. Suddenly the police whistle forced both men to retreat to the safe island. Ninochka took the opportunity to reopen the map of Paris and studied it by the street light. She looked around, trying to figure out the direction. Leon, who didn't care at first, was attracted by her behavior. A strong wind blew to try to blow the map away from Ninochka's hands.
Leon: Can I help you?
Ninochka: You can take it.
Leon (grabbing the edge of the paper): As much as you like.
Ninochka (trying to figure out the position): If I make a mistake, please correct me. Let's stand facing north now, don't we?
Leon (confused): Face north? I can't be sure without a compass... Sorry, you are a geographer?
Ninochka: No, I'm looking for the Eiffel Tower.
Leon: Did that thing fall again? Listen to me, if you want to enjoy the scenery...
Guinochka: I am only interested in the technical structure of the Eiffel Tower.
Leon: Technology? Then I can't help you. Did you know that real Parisians climb the Eiffel Tower only when they can't think of it, so that they can jump off from it.
Ninochka: So how long does it take to fall to the ground?
Leon: Ha, you are so kind! The last time I jumped down, I forgot to count the time. (Looking at the map) Now we can understand. The Eiffel Tower... Excuse your fingers.
Grab her finger and move on the picture.
Ninochka (confusedly): Why do you use my finger?
Leon: It's not decent to point with your fingers. Here... This is the Eiffel Tower.
Ninochka: Where are we?
Leon (pointing at the restaurant with her finger): Here we are. You are here, and I—here.
Ninochka: I want to know the shortest distance between these two points. Do you have to flirt?
Leon: Not necessarily, but I think it is natural.
Ninochka: It's better not to think so.
Leon: I do my best.
Ninochka (rolling up the map): I just want to know: Is your style a typical local custom?
Leon: Madam, this is what makes Paris Paris.
Ninochka: You are very confident.
Leon: Nothing happened recently that made me doubt myself.
Ninochka: Someone told me that all men in capitalist countries are cheeky. This is the reason why you make more money.
Leon: Are you a Russian? I like Russians! Comrades! I have been full of praise for your five-year plan in the past 15 years.
Ninochka: People like you will soon disappear from the earth.
She left Leon sternly. Leon watched her admiringly.
Fade in: the bottom of the Eiffel Tower. Ninochka walked in and found the attendant.
Ninochka: Excuse me, how wide is the foundation of the tower? What is the depth?
Duty Officer: Don't worry. This building is very strong.
Ninochka: I'm not afraid, I just want to know.
Leon appeared. It seemed that he came by taxi, and he had time to prepare: he had a manual in his hand.
Leon (reading): "The width of the foundation is one hundred and forty-one yards."
He lifted his hat and greeted Ninochka.
Leon: I'm sorry, but I think...
Ninochka (don't let him talk anymore): Let's go (as soon as they walk up the stairs).
Leon (continue reading): "Four heavy stone supports up to forty feet deep were built on one bank of the Seine and twenty-five feet deep on the other bank. The inclination of the metal frame crisscrossing all around is Fifty-four degrees."
Ninochka: Strange angle.
Leon: Yes, very strange.
They began to climb the stairs.
Leon (continue reading): "There are 829 steps from the top of the tower."
This discovery frightened Leon: he realized how high he had to climb.
Leon (reading): "In addition, there are 254 steps on the top of the tower."
Leon (stopping): The money for the elevator is already included in the ticket.
Ninochka continued to step on the steps, stepping up step by step, ignoring Leon. Leon looked at her back, made up his mind, and ran down.
The bottom of the Eiffel Tower. The elevator full of tourists is about to start. Leon jumped into the elevator at the last minute. The door closed and the elevator drove up quickly.
The observation deck at the highest point of the Eiffel Tower. We can see the elevator in our field of vision, and we can also see the beautiful scenery of Paris in the background. Leon walked out of the elevator carelessly. He stopped at the top of the stairs and waited for Ninochka to come up. Suddenly he was surprised to find that Ninochka was already here, leaning on the fence to admire the view of Paris. She walked up faster than Leon took the elevator. Leon was shocked and stepped forward.
Ninochka (as if nothing happened): The information you told me is very valuable. thanks.
Leon (overlooking the breathtaking view): I have to thank you for bringing me here. I'm here for the first time. How beautiful, isn't it?
Ninochka: It's beautiful.
Leon: I am very happy to be able to see all this before disappearing from the earth.
Ninochka: Please don't get me wrong. Personally, I am not against you. (Looking at him from head to toe) Maybe, in essence, you are not that bad. Unfortunately, you are the product of a civilization that is doomed to perish. I sympathize with you very much.
Leon: But you admit that this doomed civilization also has its brilliance...and its brilliance.
From the Eiffel Tower, you can see the lights of Paris.
Ninochka: I don't deny that it's beautiful. But how much electricity was wasted!
Leon: What kind of city is this! That is... it stands in the very center of the old street... the Arc de Triomphe. This was built to welcome Napoleon... Ah,... Now I want to show you the most important things.
He walked to the binoculars, flipped in his pocket for a while, took out a coin and stuffed it in.
Leon: It will cost a full franc-but it's worth it. (In focus) An amazing and unique place for all Parisians. Please take a look.
Ninochka looked through the telescope.
Leon: How is it? What did you see?
Ninochka: I saw a house...a house is a house. What is special about it?
Leon: Not looking at the house, but looking at the atmosphere in it. There are three rooms and a small kitchen for guests.
Ninochka: So, this is your house?
Leon: To be precise, I live in this house. What a lovely place! Fully equipped, cars, trackless, subway-all at the door.
Ninochka: Why, do you want me to come to your house?
Leon (for fear of offending her): Please don't misunderstand me...
Ninochka (simply): Okay, how are we going? (Looking at him) You are an interesting research object.
Leon: I'll do my best (they go to the elevator).
Fade in: Taxi. Leon and Ninochka drove on the streets of Paris. The companion beside him made Leon very excited, he was practicing saying her name correctly.
Leon: Ni-Nochka.
Ninochka: That's right.
Leon (closer): Ninochka, do you like me? Even if it's only a little bit?
Ninochka: You are not annoying.
Leon: Thank you.
Ninochka: Okay, look at me... my white eyes are healthy, and the color of my iris is normal.
Leon: Your iris is simply unbeatable! Ninochka, you said, you know everything clearly. What do you think about love?
Ninochka: This is not the subject of discussion. The concept of "love" is the romantic definition of the most common attraction among living things. Perhaps it is more appropriate to say that it is a chemical process. People have said a lot and wrote a lot of stupid things on this subject.
Leon: I understand, I understand. So what do you use to replace love?
Ninochka: I admit that everyone has some kind of natural impulse.
Leon: Then what must I do to arouse your impulse?
Ninochka: There is nothing to do. From a chemical point of view, you and I are completely complementary to each other.
Leon (who can't figure it out): You are the most incredible person I have ever met in my life. Ninocheka...Ninocheka...
Ninochka: You start to repeat.
Fade in: the front hall of Leon's house. There is a phone in the foreground. The receiver is in the hands of Gaston, a respectable butler.
Gaston: No, Earl Dargu hasn't come back yet... Okay, I'll tell him as soon as he comes back. Yes. I will tell him, Comrade Bryanov.
He put down the receiver, and just then Leon opened the door with his key and walked in with Ninochka. In the following scenes, she has been looking at the room with expert eyes: no technical details have escaped her eyes.
Leon: Good evening, Gaston.
Gaston: Good evening, count. (Bows) Madam! ...
Ninochka: This is what you call a housekeeper?
Leon: Yes.
Ninochka (holding Gaston's hand): Good evening, comrade. (To Leon) He is too old. You should not force him to work.
Leon: Force him!
Ninochka: What a melancholy expression on his face. you……
Leon: No. But to be honest, sometimes my hands are itchy.
Ninochka (to Gaston who was dumbfounded): The day of your freedom will come. Go lie down and rest, grandpa. We want to stay alone for a while.
Leon opened the door of the living room and invited Ninochka in.
Gaston (lows his voice): Count Dargu, there are several calls for you.
Leon: Go lie down, go lie down, and rest.
He walked into the living room, Ninochka was studying the room.
Leon: What to drink? How about something to eat?
Ninochka: Thank you, I have taken in the necessary calories every day.
Leon didn't know where to start dealing with this strange person.
Ninochka: What are you doing now?
Leon: You have to take off your coat first. (Helping her take off her coat) Then we listen to music. (Turns on the radio and raises her hand) Then he relaxes and looks into the other person's eyes. Smile. (She has no response) Well, then stop smiling. If I did something wrong, please bear with me. Please be generous with me. You know I'm just a hapless petty bourgeoisie.
Ninochka (sit down): It's never too late to change. I came from a petty-bourgeois family myself, and my parents wanted me to stay by their side and help them work. But I think carrying a bayonet is much better than doing housework.
Leon (surprised): Bayonet? You really...
Ninochka: I was injured under Warsaw.
Leon: Are you injured? How did it hurt?
Ninochka: I was a sergeant in the Third Cavalry Brigade. Do you want to see my scars?
Leon (shocked): I'm happy (she pulls down the blouse on her shoulders and shows him the scar).
Leon: Hiss and hiss.
Ninochka: Polish Lancers did it. I was only sixteen years old that year.
Leon: Poor man, poor, poor Ninochka.
Ninochka (pulls up his shirt): You don't have to pity me, but pity the Polish cavalry. I'm still alive after all.
Leon became more and more surprised and admired for her, and couldn't help sitting next to her.
Leon: Ninochka, I want to say something to you...
Ninochka (silence for a moment): What shall we do now?
The bell rang.
Leon (romantic): It's midnight. Half of Paris is pours love to the other half.
Ninochka: Then when do they sleep?
Leon (said with a smile): Never sleeps.
Ninochka: Then how can they work?
Leon: They don't care about this kind of problem.
Ninochka: Because of this, your franc has fallen continuously.
Leon: At such a moment, I can withstand the fall of the franc. To be honest, Ninochka, this is the reason we came together...
Ninochka: It's all affectionate.
Leon (brave efforts to inspire her romantic feelings): You know everything in the world! You know me well. But I don’t want to. Love is not a casual thing...Ninochka, Ninochka! Why is the pigeon cooing so softly? Why do the coldest-blooded snails of all living things embrace each other? Why does the little butterfly fly hundreds of miles to find his mate? Why does the flower open its petals? Oh, Ninochka, Ninochka, maybe you have also experienced some kind of wonderful emotion. The temperature of the palm...The power injected into the limbs at that moment...It was not because of hunger and thirst, but because of the unbearable pain and suffering of the lips...
He fell silent, expecting Ninochka's response to the monologue.
Ninochka: You are very talkative.
Leon couldn't bear it. He hugged her and kissed her.
Leon: Is this also a conversation?
Ninochka: No, this is gasping. Again.
Leon kissed her again.
Ninochka: Thank you.
Leon: Oh, my heartless Ninochka. My incredible, unromantic... (phone rings) Outstanding, analytical...
Ninochka: There is a phone call.
Leon: Let it ring!
Ninochka: Maybe your friend suddenly needs help? You should pick it up.
Leon walked to the telephone in the living room.
Leon: Hello! Yes... sorry, not now. I met a friend in the army...what? The deal blows up? Are you crazy, Bryanov?
Hearing the name, Ninochka became alert.
Leon (to the microphone): The envoy is here? ……what? This is better. I would be happy to see her at her convenience... She doesn't want to see me? How do you know? What? Well, I will go find her by myself. What's her name? (Pick up pen and paper) What? Yayiku...How do you spell this? God, these Russian names are terrible. Ya-Ke-U...
Ninochka stepped forward, took his pen, wrote his name, and walked away. Leon didn't understand for a while, what happened. Then he woke up.
Leon: Jacqueszova. Ninochka... (he understands it all) Okay, thank you.
He hung up the phone and looked at Ninochka intently. She is putting on her coat.
Leon (walking forward, holding her hand): Ninocheka, Ninocheka!
Ninochka: I should go now.
Leon: Ninochka...or should I say: Envoy Yakusova?
Ninochka: We should forget that we know each other.
Leon: I have another suggestion. Let's forget the call just now. Just assume that I don't know you are Yakusova. You are only Ninochka, my Ninochka.
Ninochka (firmly): My country sent me to fight you.
Leon: Great—then fight. Fight as you like, starting tomorrow morning. What could be better than sharing a secret with an unshakable enemy?
Ninochka (uncompromising tone): As a representative of Moscow, I...
Leon: At this moment, please do not represent anyone except yourself.
Ninochka: Impossible. If you want to contact me...
Leon: You know what I want!
Ninochka: Please go to my lawyer.
Leon (desperately): Ninochka, no, you can't go. I'm going crazy for you... I thought, I made a good impression on you... Don't you like the whites of my eyes?
Ninochka looked at him hesitantly, then withdrew her hand.
Ninochka: I'm leaving now (to the door).
Leon: Ninochka, I just hugged you! You kissed me too.
Ninochka: I also kissed the Polish cavalry-when he was dying.
She left.
Fade in: Three days later, the front hall of Leon's house. The butler opened the door and Swana walked in. It can be seen that she is familiar with the road here.
Gaston: Good morning, Your Highness.
Swana: Good morning, Gaston.
Gaston: Earl Dargu is still sleeping.
Swana: Not surprising.
She went into the bedroom. the light is on. Leon leaned back in the soft chair and slept soundly. A coat is draped over the pajamas. Swana took her heart.
Swana: Leon, my goodness, what's wrong with you?
Leon: Huh?
Swana: What happened? you are sick?
Leon: No, just can't sleep. Get up and lie down, then get up again. The last three days have been a disaster! ...
Swana: Honey, I don’t want you to be like this for my sake...
Kiss him. As she spoke, she opened the curtains, turned off the lights, and opened the windows.
Swana: We knew from the beginning that our chances were small. I really want to defeat these Bolshevik pigs, but you can't use your health as a price. (Gentlely) You are so pale...but white is quite interesting.
There was a knock on the door.
Swana: Please come in.
Gass came in with a universal tray carrying breakfast.
Gaston: Your early, sir.
Leon: I don't eat breakfast.
Swana: No, you need! You should just accumulate your strength to fight those red bandits so that the White Party likes you.
She took the tray in Gaston's hand, put it on the coffee table, and poured coffee.
Gaston: Would you like to prepare bath water, sir?
Swana: Yes, pour acerola juice. Take out the light gray suit again. (To Leon) My dear, I will take you for a walk on Boua Avenue.
Gaston: And that blue shirt?
Swana: The blue one? No, blue—is the color of melancholy. It's best to have a white shirt with a bright tie-just to cheer up.
Gaston: Yes, your highness.
He went into the bathroom.
Svana forced Leon to sit up and sit next to him.
Swana: Look... we have two very cute tender eggs. We put some butter on this tempting piece of bread, sprinkled some salt and pepper... Honey, I haven't seen you for three days, seventy-two hours.
Leon (excitedly): Swana, God... I don’t know which world I am in. You blame me here, saying that I haven’t seen you for three days, but another woman, I want to meet so desperately She-but can't see it.
Swana: Have you met her yet?
Leon: No. I worked so hard! I probably made hundreds of calls to her, telegraphed...gave flowers, and invited her to lunch and go to the theater.
Swana: These paupers! If in the past I had told her to whip her.
Leon: I'm afraid it's useless, she's not that kind of person. (Emotionally) She is the most incredible of people I know.
Swana: You just said that you never met her.
Leon: I... this... I saw her in the lobby of the Clarence Hotel.
Swana: Think about it, this kind of restaurant carpet will be confused by this crude shoe. What does she look like?
Leon: You can't imagine it.
Swana: Actually so? (Leon nods) Is it an old woman or a young one?
Leon: She has no age. She walked into the room as if the Bolsheviks had already occupied Paris. Cheap shirts are worn on her, just like the most fashionable clothes. What kind of woman is she! What kind of woman is she! Every time she looks back, it is as shocking as a Russian blizzard.
Swana: Are you all seeing this at a glance?
Leon (stands up): My dear, if a person wants something, he will definitely look at it a second time.
Swana: Go, honey, take a hot bath and let Gaston...
Leon walked into the bathroom when the doorbell rang.
Swana: Gaston!
No one answered, so she went to open the door by herself.
Three Russians stood in the doorway and kept falling. Seeing Swana, they cringed a little.
Three people: Hello!
Swana realized that standing in front of her was the representative of the Soviet power she had met for the first time in her life.
Swana: What's the matter with you?
Kopalski: We want to talk to Count Dargu. My name is Kopalski.
Swana: Ah, you-those three from Moscow?
Kopalski: Yes.
Swana (coldly): Then wait.
The door banged shut before their eyes.
Bryanov (cowardly): This is her.
Kopalski: If you think about it, it was the grandpa who opened the door to us! Once in Petersburg, I drove a cart along Nevsky Prospekt and ran into the carriage of His Highness head-on. I hid away a little bit slowly, and she spit on my face when she passed me.
Ilanov: All right, Bryanov, you have never been to Petersburg at all, and you have no carriage. She has never spit on your face. Stop bragging.
The door opened, and Leon stood by the door in his bathrobe.
Leon: Hello, gentlemen.
Three people: Leon!
Leon: Come in, come in.
They walked into the room.
Leon: Is there any news?
Kopalski (excitedly): Leon, Leonecka. She doesn't want to do business! She is prepared to protest against the prohibition on the sale and shipment of diamonds. She wants to set a precedent in the law.
Ilanov: She said that parasites can't scare me. "She called the grand duke "a noble vampire who extorted sex."
Leon (impatiently): What did she say about me?
Ilanov (thinking about it): I think you are counted among the parasites.
Leon was desperate.
Bryanov: Hey, Leonekka, if only you heard what she said about us.
Ilanov: Moscow will probably believe her.
Bryanov: What is it? I would believe her for sure.
Kopalski: We don't blame you, Leon, but when we came from Russia, we wanted to live more simply.
Ilanov: We didn't want to be lavish and pompous, but until now... Anyway, if we can bring us a small glass of champagne, we will not refuse.
Leon's mood was so low that he didn't hear his hint.
Leon: Friends, I want to help you, but what can I do? I waited in the hall for six hours yesterday.
Ilanov: She never left the room. These two days have been sitting with lawyers and studying their laws.
Leon: Okay. Then let me meet her and talk to her.
Kopalski: We are out of luck, but you, Leon, you have many ideas...
Swana put on her gloves and walked out of the bedroom.
Swana (to Leon): I'm leaving now, dear. I will have lunch at Fork, so come if you can come. Remember, Leon: A man must think twice before...
The living room of the royal suite. The desk was full of documents and various law books. Ninochka is in a meeting with the lawyer.
The first lawyer (not so sure): I remember, there is an annex about the prohibition of dealings with foreigners living in France.
Ninochka (speaking clearly): It is the 59th paragraph "b" in the "f" of Chapter 25 of the National Code.
Her profound knowledge surprised the lawyers, and they exchanged glances. One of them picked up a thick tome and wanted to prove it, Ninochka went on to say: "Page 824".
The lawyers winked agai
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