The Servant movie script
Text / [UK] Harold Pinter
Translated by Li Ershi and Mei Feng
EXTERNAL, Knightsbridge Square, October, daytime
A quiet square in the distance of Knightsbridge. winter sun. Bare woods. Lots of parked cars.
Barrett appeared at the far end of the square. The camera shoots him coming from a distance from a height. He stopped on the side of the road. Cars come and go. He crossed the road. His footsteps on the pavement were strong. Pay attention to the house number as you pass rows of houses. He stopped in front of a house with a more shabby facade. He confirmed the house number and walked up the steps.
The door is open. He looked out into the dimly lit hall. quietly. There is no knocker on the door. He found a doorbell and rang it. The doorbell rang so faintly that it was uncertain whether it rang.
INTERIOR, TONY'S APARTMENT, LOBBY, DAY
The camera captures Barrett coming in and standing still from inside the hall. The wallpaper in the hall had faded and turned gray, and there was a faint pattern of grapes. There was no carpet in the room, as if no one lived there. There was silence. He walked across the hall to the living room and knocked on the door.
interior, living room, daytime
Shot from a plant greenhouse at the other end of the large, empty room, Barrett looks around the living room door. He entered the room and glanced at the greenhouse. A man was lying on an old recliner.
interior, greenhouse, day
Barrett approached, stopped beside the lying man, and examined everything in front of him. He bent down to Tony.
Barrett: I'm sorry...
(Tony looks up.)
Barrett: My name is Barrett, sir.
Tony stared at him, flicking his fingers.
Tony: Oh my gosh, yes. I'm sorry, just fell asleep. We made an appointment to meet.
Barrett: Yes, sir.
Tony: What time is it?
Barrett: Three o'clock, sir.
Tony: Ah, what time is it?
Barrett: It's three o'clock, sir.
Tony: I drank too much beer for lunch, so I just fell asleep. do you drink beer?
Barrett: No, I don't drink, sir.
Tony stood up.
Tony: Come upstairs. We can sit for a while.
They went to the door.
interior, hall, stairs, daytime
They went up the stairs.
Tony: I just got back from Africa. I like it there very much. What do you think of this house?
Barrett: Very good, sir.
Tony: There is still a lot of renovation work to do.
INTERIOR, SECOND FLOOR, TONY'S BEDROOM, DAY
The winter sun shines on the floor. Except for two chairs, the house was empty. The door is hidden. Tony entered the house, Barrett following. His voice still echoed slightly in the room.
Tony: Actually, really lucky to get this place. It's a little damp, but it's fine. Please take a seat.
Barrett: Thank you, sir.
Barrett sat down. Barrett's chair is placed in the center of the house. While talking, Tony walked around the room, so to speak, around the people sitting.
Tony: Yeah, it's such a job. It's like this...I'm moving in in about...two or three weeks...I'm alone for now, so I need a valet, you know. I've seen one or two. But I don't think they are very suitable. How to say...do you have any work experience in this area?
Barrett: I've been doing this for the past 13 years, sir. Over the past few years I have worked as a private servant for several members of the aristocracy.
Tony: Oh.
Barrett: I worked for Viscount Barr five weeks ago.
Tony: Oh, Lord Barr? My father knew him very well. But the fact is that they both passed away within a week. So you are not working now?
Barrett: Yes, sir.
Tony was standing by the window.
EXTERIOR, GARDEN ON THE PLAZA, DAY
The garden on the edge of the square, from here, you can see Tony standing at the window watching the garden.
Barrett's figure is in the pane.
interior, bedroom, daytime
Tony turned around.
Tony: Would you like to do this job?
Barrett: Oh, I do, sir. I like doing this very much.
Tony: Can you cook?
Barrett: How to put it... Maybe I can say that, sir, cooking has always been a particularly proud part of my job.
Tony: What's your specialty?
Barrett: How can I put it, my souffle dessert has been complimented in the past, sir.
Tony: So do you cook Indian food?
Barrett: A little, sir.
Tony: Okay, I'm pretty good at that.
Tony sat down in another chair.
Tony: You're in charge of all the cooking here.
Barrett: This will bring me a lot of joy, sir.
Tony: Of course I could get a housekeeper to take care of the place and run the kitchen, but I'll tell you very frankly that the thought of having an elderly woman running the house and nagging me What to do... this is rather disgusting to me.
Barrett: Of course, sir.
Tony: Now in addition to cooking, I need...how to say, all...
(He laughs.) A steward is in charge... you know.
Barrett: Yes, I understand, sir.
interior, restaurant, night
A small and elegant restaurant with a place to dance. The band is playing. Some people are dancing. Susan, who is dancing with Tony, swirls into the close-up.
Susan (laughs): Brazil?
Tony: Yes. in the jungle.
The music stops. They went back to the table.
Tony: Waiter! The first thing we have to do is clear the jungle.
Susan: What? Just you?
Tony: No! This is a big development project. They are going to build three cities.
Susan: Is it?
Tony: Hmm. Huge project. The project had to clear hundreds of miles of jungle.
Service Director: What do you need?
Tony: I need to get another bottle of wine, and the cork is too tight.
Service Director: I'm sorry, sir.
Susan: You're plugged too.
Tony: Now listen to me, I'll tell you... First we need to build cities. Then we have to find people who are willing to go and who can live in those cities.
Susan: Where did you find these people?
Tony: From Asia Minor. You know, there are thousands of farmers out there. They had a hard time there, and this might be the beginning of a new life for them. Anyway, he wanted me to coordinate everything. This project will cost a huge amount of money, millions of dollars.
The head of service returned with the bottle. Pour wine. Tony took a sip.
Tony: That's it. I will have lunch with him next week.
Susan: Where? in the jungle?
Tony: Actually, either here or in Paris. Anyway, time is not so urgent. I can handle the rest.
Susan (laughs): What's the rest?
Tony: Nothing. Seriously, what do you think of this idea?
SUSAN (raises his glass): Interesting.
interior, living room, empty floor, night
Tony and Susan lay on the floor with their coats as pillows and a blanket over them. An electric stove was on. Night light filtered through the window. They kiss.
Tony: Want to go there?
Susan: Where are you going?
Tony: Jungle.
Susan: Not now.
Tony: No, not now.
He kisses her.
Susan: Little badass.
She kisses him.
Tony: Oh, and also, I forgot to tell you. I found a valet.
Susan (laughs): What?
interior view, hall and staircase, daytime
The camera looks down from the top of the stairs to the empty hall below. Voices came from the kitchen.
Barrett: Good idea, sir.
They appeared in the hall, looking up at the stairs.
Barrett: What color are the landings painted?
Tony: White.
They started walking upstairs.
Interior, Second Floor, Landing, Day
Tony and Barrett came up the stairs.
Tony: Okay, there could be a little bit of blue here and there...but I'd like the overall color to be mostly white.
Barrett: Chinese red and fuchsia are a very chic combination that is very popular this year, sir.
Tony: Of course not everything is the same, right?
Barrett: No, no, no. not all.
Tony: Only one wall?
Barrett: Oh, yes, it's just a wall, sir, here or there.
interior, bedroom, daytime
They entered the house and looked around. In the background is Tony's private bathroom and dressing room.
Tony: You really know everything about renovations, Barrett.
Barrett: Well, it makes a big difference in life, sir.
Tony: Oh. What's different?
Barrett: The surroundings will be more tasteful and interesting.
Tony: Exactly.
interior, top of stairs, daytime
Tony stepped onto the roof deck.
Tony (pointing with finger): This is your room. Wait, what is this?
They opened the door of a hut.
interior, storage room, daytime
They go inside. The space is small and the lighting is dim.
Tony: The storage room.
Barrett: Always reserved for the maid, sir.
Tony: Oh, we gotta get a cleaning lady. Do you think we need a maid?
Barrett: They work well, sir.
interior, hall, day
The apartment is full of decorators, plasterers, painters and more. Workers built planks on two ladders. On the way downstairs to the kitchen, Barrett passed them.
Barrett: Be careful with paint.
He looked into the house through the dining room door.
interior, restaurant, daytime
There are things on the floor. The painter stands on the ladder.
Barrett: Is everything going well?
Worker: Yes, thanks for the reminder.
Barrett: Yeah, let me know if there's a problem, so it can be corrected when things go wrong, which we'd love to see.
The two painters looked at him, then looked at each other. Barrett is gone.
interior, greenhouse, day
Tony browses the garden plans while smoking a cigarette. Barrett came in from the living room and put down the tray.
Barrett: It's lunch, sir.
Tony: Ah, great.
Barrett: No problem, sir.
Tony: How's their work going?
Barrett: I'll keep an eye on them.
Tony: Is it? You should bring me a bottle of cooked beer.
Barrett: I'm going to get it, sir.
TONY (sitting down for salad): I'll wait.
Barrett: Sir...
Barrett walks away, leaving Tony to eat.
EXT, TONY'S APARTMENT, NIGHT
Overlooking a sports car to a slow stop. Tony and Susan got out of the car and up the stairs.
interior, hall, night
The room is brightly lit and the carpet has been refreshed. The furniture placed is too large for the room. The furniture is all handed down from Tony's ancestors. Barrett opened the door, head sideways.
Tony: This is Barrett, Susan, Barrett...this is my fiancée...Miss Stewart.
Susan: Hello.
Barrett: Good evening, Miss Stewart. Shall I get your coat for you?
Susan: No, I'll wear it, thanks.
Tony: Come in.
interior, living room, night
They come in. She browses around.
Tony: Do you like this place?
Susan: Hmm. The house is beautiful.
Barrett: Simplicity and classicism are always the best, miss.
She looked at a heavy ornament.
Susan: Is this classical? This is not classical, this is prehistoric.
Tony: We could live here forever, I like that. Barrett, pour us a drink.
Barrett: Yes, sir.
Susan: Vodka with ice.
Barrett: As usual, sir?
Tony: Thank you. where do you want to sit?
He pointed to the armchair.
Susan: This one.
Tony: My mom likes to sit here.
Barrett served the drink and walked away.
Tony: He's been a huge help, that guy. You'll try his cooking later. Really, I've never been so comfortable.
Susan: Never?
Tony: I don't have to worry about anything.
Susan: Will he bring breakfast to your bed?
Tony: Of course.
She smiled lightly, stood up, and walked around.
Susan: Have you checked if he has a criminal record?
Barrett appeared at the door.
Tony: Is something wrong, Barrett?
Barrett: If you want dinner, please ring the bell, sir.
Tony: Yes, I will.
Barrett is gone.
Susan: Why don't you get a housekeeper?
Tony: Oh, there's really nothing good about women. They can't cook.
He grabbed her, kissed her, and pulled her onto the sofa.
interior, restaurant, night
Tony and Susan sit and eat. Barrett holds a wine bottle. He wore a pair of white cotton gloves on his hands.
Susan: Overall, this place needs more light...you know, all kinds of...colors.
Tony: Oh, do you think so?
Susan: Yeah, tomorrow I'll have someone prepare a suitable condiment rack in the kitchen.
Barrett: Would you like to taste this wine, sir?
Tony: Thank you.
Susan: What an exquisite glove.
Tony: It was Barrett's idea. I would also like.
Barrett: It's Italian, miss. Italians do it this way.
Susan: For whom?
Tony is tasting wine.
Tony: Great.
Barrett: Just a bottle of Beaujolais (note 1), sir, but in a good bottle.
Susan: What's good?
Barrett: Well bottled.
Barrett turned his head slightly and walked away.
interior, kitchen, night
Barrett sat alone on a kitchen chair, picking his teeth.
exterior, apartment, day
Tony ran up the steps in the pouring rain.
interior, hall, day
Tony's wet feet. He took off his raincoat.
interior, kitchen, day
Barrett poured salt into a basin of hot water.
interior, living room, daytime
Tony sat in the alcove of the study. Barrett took off his shoes and socks. Tony put his foot into the foot bowl.
Tony: Oh, is this necessary?
Barrett: I'd rather be healthy than trouble, sir.
Tony: You're too skinny to be a babysitter, Barrett.
Barrett looked at him.
Tony: Oh, well, don't be mad, that's not what I meant.
He wriggled his feet.
Tony: Oh...oh...so comfortable!
interior, living room, night
Close-up shot of Susan's feet. The camera zooms out to show Tony lying on the rug while smoking a slender cigar. Susan sits in a chair. The record is playing. The playing of the record continues throughout the scene.
The girl's voice on the record:
now when i love you alone
now when i love you alone
I love you right now
love is impossible without you
Have to love without you... love to be alone.
Susan: Any news about your new frontier (note 2)?
Tony: No, no, not really. But, in reality, he had to go there and do all kinds of things. You know, make all kinds of arrangements. Heads of government, and all such arrangements.
Susan: Did you hear anything from him?
Tony: Yeah, of course I mean, the idea is in its infancy.
He was puffing smoke. A moment of silence.
Tony: I still feel so happy right now... how about you?
Susan: Hmm.
Tony: I could easily get by for a few months. Ah, Barrett set the garden up exactly as I wanted. The garden looks beautiful, doesn't it?
Susan stood up and looked through the conservatory to the garden, she turned, walked up to him, and kissed him. He pulled her to the floor beside him and kissed her. The singing of the record continued.
The girl's song:
... it's time to go
everything will pass
go for it
don't stop for me
out of your arms
go for it
everything will pass
let my death come
shut my mouth
give me breath
shut my mouth
how can i bear
Your soul haunts here
love is impossible without you
Love without you...
... at the moment when i love you
love is impossible without you
love without you
Now when I fall in love with you alone
Now when I fall in love with you alone
now when i love you
Love is impossible without you
I have to love without you...love being alone.
Tony: That mouth!
(She kisses him.)
Tony: Why didn't you come and live with me?
Susan: Stay for a weekend? ...a long weekend? ...or for a few weeks...?
Tony: Marry me.
They hug. She rolled on top of him. A hidden door in the study alcove opened. Barrett came in.
They look up.
The music stops.
BARRETT (pulling away): Sorry to bother you, sir.
He closed the door. Susan lay motionless. Tony stood up.
Tony: Sorry.
Susan: Why didn't he knock on the door?
Tony: He made a mistake.
Pause for a while.
Susan: Wrong! For God's sake, some areas should be off-limits to him.
Pause for a while.
Susan: Can't he live outside?
Tony: Live outside? No, he can't.
Susan: But after dinner, he doesn't need to be here, does he?
He looked at her blankly.
Tony: Then lock him up!
Pause for a while.
Susan: Well, I think I should go.
Tony: Why?
Susan: Just wanted to go.
Tony: This is ridiculous.
She walked towards the door, hesitant.
Susan: Come to my house and stay with me.
Tony: Oh, listen to me... just stay here.
She went out.
interior, hall, night
Susan picked up her coat and Tony helped her put it on. Barrett showed up and opened the front door for her. She looked at him.
Susan: A bit late for you, Barrett, isn't it? It's time for you to lay down in bed.
Tony gestured to Barrett. Barrett walked away.
Tony: I'll drive you back.
Susan: Don't.
Tony: I'll walk back with you.
Susan (softly): Forget it.
She took his face in her hands, kissed him, and left. Tony froze for a moment, then returned to the living room.
interior, living room, night
Barrett came in.
Barrett: My sincere apologies for the sudden intrusion, sir. I did not expect……
Tony: Stop doing that!
Barrett: I did knock on the door, sir.
Tony: Oh, go to sleep...
Tony put his hand on his head.
Tony: Do you have aspirin?
Barrett: Yes, sir. I guess you caught the cold in the rain that day, sir.
INTERIOR, TONY'S BEDROOM, DAY
Tony is lying on the bed. Susan pulled back the curtains and opened the window.
Susan: You need more air.
Tony: Oh, I don't know.
Susan: No, you know.
She turned around, walked to the door, and walked out.
interior, landing, day
Susan came out of the room, picked up the vase from the table, and turned back to the bedroom. Barrett stood there the entire time.
interior, bedroom, daytime
Susan came back with a vase of flowers in her hand and set them up.
Tony: Oh my gosh! Sorry, I totally forgot. These flowers are so pretty. thank you very much.
Susan: No matter which door in this apartment, if you open any door, that person will be by the door. He is a voyeur.
Tony: Also doubles as a vampire on Sunday off.
Susan: Why don't you put flowers in your room?
Tony: He said putting flowers in the ward at night is actually very bad...
There was a knock on the door.
Tony: ...come in.
Barrett comes in.
Barrett: Time to take your medicine, sir. And your mail.
Tony: Oh, thanks.
Barrett hands Tony some pills and a glass of water. Tony took it.
Barrett left the letter on a nearby table. A disturbing silence.
Susan: What did the doctor say yesterday?
Tony: Oh, nothing. Viral infection.
Barrett picked up the vase, ready to move it elsewhere.
Susan: Put it down!
Pause for a while.
Tony: Oh, put it down, Barrett.
Barrett (puts the vase down): I'm sorry, sir.
Barrett walked away.
Tony: I wish you didn't keep yelling at Barrett. If he leaves, it will be a mess here.
Susan: So what does it matter?
Tony: What does it matter? Well, you try to find someone like him.
Susan: I'm sorry for being reckless with your servant.
Tony: You know, maybe he's just a servant, but he's still a man!
She turned around and left the room.
interior, hall, day
Barrett followed Susan to the front door and opened it for her.
Barrett: I'm afraid the weather isn't so flattering, miss... the weather forecast said.
She stared at him for a moment, then walked down the doorstep. Barrett closed the door behind her.
EXT, Knightsbridge Square, Tony's room, daytime
Susan stopped at the bottom of the steps. His expression suddenly became confused. A gust of wind swept across the square.
EXTERNAL, Knightsbridge Square, Tony's Room, dusk
The wind is starting to get stronger. The street was wet.
Interior, Knightsbridge Square, Public Telephone Box, Dusk
Barrett stood in the phone booth.
Barrett: Hello. Please pick up Bolton 62545.
He waited. A group of girls gathered outside the phone booth, talking and laughing. One of the girls' skirt was lifted by the wind. Barrett stared blankly. Another girl appeared in his field of vision. The girls are all smiling. The operator signaled to him that the call was connected.
Vera's Voice: Hello.
Barrett: Villa?
Vera's Voice: Yes.
Barrett: Are you ready?
Vera's Voice: Yes, I'm ready...
Barrett: Well, see you tomorrow.
Vera's voice: All right. I bought something new.
Barrett: Huh?
Barrett's attention turned again to the group of girls. The girl with the floating skirt tried her best to push the skirt down.
Vera's voice: ...I'm wearing it right now.
Barrett: Oh.
Vera's Voice: If you're a good boy, I'll dress you up.
Barrett: I am. Are you a nice girl?
Vera's voice: What?
He gritted his teeth.
Barrett: Did I say you're a good girl?
Vera's Voice: I am.
Barrett: I'll pick you up at the station. You got my last letter, right?
Vera's Voice: Oh, yes. I've already received it.
Barrett: All right. See you at the station. goodbye.
Vera's voice: Goodbye.
Barrett stepped out of the phone booth. The girl squeezed past him. Barrett pushed her away.
Barrett: Get out of your way, you dirty bitch.
INTERIOR, TONY'S APARTMENT, RESTAURANT, NIGHT
Like in the entire apartment, Barrett made some changes to the space.
Tony sat at the table. Barrett waited by.
Tony: These red wine drinks you've made are amazing, Barrett.
(He laughs.)
Tony: It's pretty good if I say it, isn't it? Wine Barrett.
Barrett: They used to call me Driller Barrett when I was in the army, sir.
Tony: Oh, yes? Why?
Barrett: Because I'm good at corking.
Tony: Ah!
(Pause for a while.)
Tony: I like the changes you made to the apartment. It's a pleasure to do so yourself, right?
Barrett cleared his throat.
Barrett: That's right, sir...Thank you very much, sir, oh, by the way, sir. I removed the ruffled calico that Miss Lestewart had placed on the table in the study. Not very practical.
(Tony grunts.)
Barrett: We haven't seen much of Miss Stewart lately, have we, sir?
Tony: Um- no.
Barrett: With your permission, my sister will be here tomorrow, sir.
Tony: Oh, yes. OK.
Barrett: If you decide to let her stay, she'll be very happy with the arrangement.
Tony: Well, if she's really good, we'll keep her.
Euston Railway Station (Note 3), daytime
Barrett stood on the platform. A train enters the station.
Cocktail bar at a French restaurant in Soho, daytime
Tony is standing by the bar. A man and a girl are talking.
Girl: He's really smart.
Man: So funny.
Girl: It's been a while.
Man: Cheers.
Girl: Cheers. I really want to see him again. I haven't seen him in a long time.
Man: I'm afraid it will take a little longer.
girl: oh why?
Man: He's in jail.
Susan went into the restaurant.
Tony: Hello.
Susan: Hello.
Foreman: Good morning, Miss Stewart.
Susan: Good morning.
Foreman: Good morning, sir.
Tony: Good morning.
Foreman: Nice to see you two again.
Susan: Thank you.
They sit down. The foreman handed them the menu.
Foreman: I recommend roast duck to you.
Tony: What do you want to eat?
Susan: Are you feeling better?
Tony: Yes, thank you.
They stared at each other.
Susan: I bring you a present.
She handed him a package.
Tony: For what?
Susan: Because I want to send.
Euston railway station platform, daytime
Vera got out of the car onto the platform and ran to Barrett.
INTERIOR, SOHO RESTAURANT, DAY
Tony and Susan are eating. The restaurant has started to fill up. Most are served as a side dish before meals. A bishop and a parish priest entered the dining room.
Foreman: Hello, Bishop.
Bishop: Hello.
Euston railway station, platform, daytime
Shot from a height, Vera and Barrett are seen walking along the platform without speaking. He helped her with her luggage.
INTERIOR, SOHO RESTAURANT, DAY
Tony and Susan have started eating the main course and drinking red wine. No one spoke. The camera moves away from them and stops at a middle-aged woman and a young woman at the table next to them.
Older Woman: What did she say to you?
Young woman: Nothing.
Older Woman: Oh, no, she did. What did she say to you.
Young woman: She didn't. She really didn't.
Older Woman: She said it. I saw her mouth move. She whispered something to you, didn't she? What did it say? What did she mutter to you?
Young Woman: She didn't whisper anything to me. She didn't say anything!
Susan: Why don't we leave... for a few days... eh?
Tony: Where to go?
Susan: Anywhere.
Tony: Agatha and Willie Monsett really invited us over.
Susan: Then why not go?
Tony: Yeah, I think we can.
exterior, London street, interior, taxi, daytime
Vera and Barrett were sitting in the cab, but not next to each other. Vera looked out the window.
Interior, Soho Restaurant, Daytime
Tony and Susan are drinking coffee. There was an awkward silence between them. The bishop and the parish priest were drinking.
Parish Pastor: I heard that Lord O'Flaherty will not be attending the Cork clergy.
Bishop: O'Flaherty? For God's sake, don't be so naive. The guy doesn't say anything to miss the trip, you just put your bet on it.
Parish Pastor: Don't you have to listen to him in the end?
Bishop: Ah, for God's sake, when are they not like that?
The camera cuts to Tony and Susan, with the girl and man in the background.
Susan: I just don't like him.
Tony: You don't know him.
(Pause for a while.)
Tony: I mean you can totally believe what I'm saying is the truth.
Susan: Don't trust him.
Tony: Why?
Susan: I don't know.
Girl: It's snowing. I like snow.
Tony: I admit he doesn't look that attractive. But beyond that, what's wrong with him? You always take him so seriously. I mean, in my opinion, you're taking the whole thing too seriously.
Susan: Yes, maybe.
They took up their wine glasses.
The bishop and the parish priest got up.
Bishop: So where are you going now, my child... eh?
Parish Priest: Nowhere, my lord, nowhere...nowhere.
Bishop: Really?
Susan: Why didn't you just fire him.
Tony: You're crazy.
(Pause for a while.)
Tony: Not only are you ignoring me... but you're criticizing my judgment. Not only is this ridiculous, it hurts a bit.
Girl (next to the table): They are generous - really generous.
Man: Is that true?
Tony: Sorry, I'm a fool.
Susan: You are.
Tony: I mean...I mean...
Girl: God, I really can't understand.
man: sorry!
pause. Susan touched Tony's hand.
Susan: Listen to me...I'm sorry.
Tony: Ugh...I won't...
He also touched her hand, frowning with a confused expression.
INTERNATIONAL VIEW, Tony's Apartment, Downstairs, Day
Barrett led Villa upstairs. At the top of the stairs, she peered into Tony's bedroom, then to Barrett. He led her away and continued up to her room.
INTERIOR, TONY'S APARTMENT, PENTYROOM, DAY
Barrett directed Vera into her bedroom. She looked around the room, then looked at Barrett. He stared at her, expressionless.
interior, hall, day
Tony appeared at the door.
Tony: Barrett!
He went into the living room.
interior, living room, daytime
Tony walked in.
Tony: Barrett!
He opened the package and took out a silky black short robe. He heard Barrett and threw his clothes on the sofa.
Barrett: Did you call me, sir?
Tony: Yes. Terrible lunch. where did you go? Pour me a brandy.
Barrett: All right, sir.
Barrett poured a glass of brandy and noticed the robe.
Barrett: Nice clothes, sir.
Tony is drinking.
Barrett: Oh...may I introduce you to my sister, sir? She's here... She's so excited to think about staying with us.
Tony: Oh, yes?
Barrett turned to the door.
Barrett: Villa.
interior, kitchen, day
Boiling boiling water is poured from the kettle into the teapot. The camera pulls back to show Barrett examining the tea tray. He handed the tray with the teapots and cups to Vera. She went out with a tea tray.
interior, living room, daytime
Tony was lying on an armchair. His feet rested on the footstool. Beside him is a side table. Vera came in and carefully placed the tea tray on the table by the wall, her entire upper body bent over Tony while she was doing it.
interior, living room, morning light
Tony was still lying, dozing, with a book on the floor and an empty tea tray. Vera and Barrett came in with flowers. They arranged flowers on the table by the window. Tony looked over with half-open eyes. He saw Vera's face and neck through the flower branches, her body, the body in the black maid's tunic, moving under the table, and her legs.
INTERNATIONAL HOUSE OF THE LORD AND LADY MONSETT, Twilight
Lord Monsett, Lady Monsett, Tony and Susan together.
LADY MONSET: I can say with absolute certainty that you will be fascinated by Brazil.
Lord Montsett: Oh, yes.
LADY MONSET: I had a stopover in Argentina when I was a little girl, of course only briefly...I was really attracted to Argentina.
Tony: That must have been a very interesting experience.
LADY MONSET: So mysterious, Tony, dear.
Lord Montsett: How many cities are you going to build?
Susan: Three.
Tony: Yeah, that's -- really a big development plan.
LORD MONSET: In the jungle?
Tony: No, sir, not in the jungle. is on the plain.
Susan: Oh, but some of the jungle will have to be cleared, won't it?
Tony: Yes, some are. a small part.
LADY MONSET: Of course, the plains, where you can see Penchos everywhere.
Lord Montsett: The cowboys of South America.
Susan: Is that thing called Pengqiu?
LADY MONSET: That's what it was called in my day.
Susan: Isn't that what you wear like that? You know, there's a hole in the middle that you can put your head in?
LORD MONSET: What do you mean?
Susan: How, you know...can hang down front and back...those cowboys.
LADY MONSET: That's what they call the South American cape, my dear.
INTERIOR, FIRST LAND, MORNING
A close-up of Tony's bedroom door. Vera's hand is on camera, knocking on the door.
Tony's Voice: Come in.
INT. TONY'S BEDROOM, MORNING
Tony sat on the bed without his pajamas. Vera came in with breakfast and put it down.
Vera: Good morning, sir.
Tony: Good morning...Where's Barrett?
Vera: He's out shopping, sir.
She opened the curtains and tidied them up.
Vera: Do you need anything else, sir?
Tony: Nothing, thank you.
She tidied up the house. Tony watched. She turned away.
interior, kitchen, day
Barrett came in through the kitchen door leading to the garden. Vera came in from the hall. They looked at each other. She walked to the sideboard and poured a cup of tea, then walked sideways to a table and sat on it. Her skirt was short above the knee. She smiled cryptically as Barrett approached her. Her smile faded away, followed by a strong anticipation. When he got close to her, her head suddenly fell back and her mouth opened in a sexy hoarse smile.
INTERIOR, TONY'S BEDROOM, DAY
Close-up of clothes rack. Barrett's hand removed a coat from above, and he helped Tony get dressed.
Tony: For God's sake, look at this. This is really not good enough!
Barrett: I beg your forgiveness, sir.
Barrett lightly brushed the surface of his coat.
Tony: You have to work harder. Hurry up, hurry up, hurry up. Dust well, you won't hurt me.
Barrett: Maybe I have to ask you to take off your jacket, sir?
Tony: No, damn it. Keep dusting. I have no time to delay.
Barrett dusted vigorously.
Barrett: Please turn around, sir.
Tony: Forget it, forget it, that's it.
(Unhappily.)
Tony: Alright, stop here.
He went to the mirror.
Barrett: I got a letter this morning that our mother fell ill over in Manchester, sir. Clearly she was expecting us to pass. Maybe a little dangerous. Do you mind if we take a night off and come back later tomorrow?
Tony: Are you both going?
Barrett: Yeah, it's all unforeseen, sir.
Tony: It's so inconvenient.
Barrett: I know, sir, I know very well. Also, we can prepare cold meals and salads for you.
Tony: I want something hot! Can't you leave tomorrow?
Barrett: I think we can, sir.
Tony: Let's go tomorrow then. That way I have time to make some arrangements.
Barrett: Well, sir.
Tony: Okay, I'm leaving.
Barrett: Oh, and one more thing, before you go, I have to tell you a little, sir, about…
Tony: What's the matter? - Where's my cologne?
Barrett: It's about Villa.
Tony: what's the matter with her?
Barrett: Yes, her skirt, sir. This worries me a lot.
Tony: Her dress. what happened to her skirt?
Barrett: So, her skirt looks a little short to me, sir?
Silence for a while.
Tony: A little short?
Barrett: I think so.
Pause for a while.
Tony: So what exactly do you want me to do about it? She is your sister, tell her yourself. What about my cologne?
He crossed the living room to the bedroom door.
Vera's voice: Don't come in. I have no clothes on! Who is it?
Tony froze. The door opened slightly.
Vera: Oh, sorry, I forgot to lock the door.
Tony: I'm looking for my cologne.
Vera: Your what?
Tony: A bottle...
Vera: All right, I'm wrapped in a towel now.
Tony grabbed the doorknob and pulled the door tightly towards him.
Tony: I just want my cologne.
He waited, his face sullen.
Vera: Which, is that the one with your initials on it?
Tony: Yes.
The door is to be pulled open from the inside. Tony gripped the doorknob tightly to keep it from opening. The door opened only a narrow slit. Her cologne-carrying arm stretched out.
Vera: I'm sorry, I thought everyone was out.
He stared at the movement of her hand looking for him. Then he took the bottle, walked back to his room, and placed a few drops of perfume on the handkerchief.
Tony: Did you know Vera is in my bathroom?
Barrett: What did you say, sir?
Tony: She's taking a shower in my bathroom. Listen, I mean...I mean...don't forget...you have your own bathroom upstairs.
He hands Barrett the cologne.
Tony: A word of warning to her.
Tony leaves. Barrett crossed the room to the bathroom and entered.
interior, bathroom, day
Shots of Barrett and Vera. Vera was wrapped in a bath towel. He held the bottle of cologne in his hand.
Barrett: Who told you to shower in his bathroom? Who said you could use his bathroom? A gentleman doesn't want a naked girl bouncing up and down in his bathroom.
Vera: You told me, didn't you?
Barrett: Me? Why should I tell you to do such a thing?
He closed the door.
Barrett: I'll tell you what I'm going to do now.
Vera: What?
Barrett: I'm going to take a shower in his bathroom.
Vera turned on the tap.
Vera: You are horrible!
He handed Vera the cologne.
Barrett: And I'm going to... pour all this perfume on me.
He took off his coat. She looked at him. Water tumbles in the tub.
interior, bedroom, daytime
The square seen from the window. Barrett and Vera walked side by side, luggage in hand. Tony walks to the foreground of the camera, looks at it for a moment, then turns around, heavy-hearted. The phone rang.
Tony: Hello.
Susan's voice: It's me.
Tony: Oh, hello.
Susan's Voice: I've been worried about you.
Tony: Oh - can I call you back?
Susan: All right—but when?
Tony: Are you in the office?
Susan: Yes, but I'm getting ready to go out. will you be home tonight?
Tony: Oh... yes. Then you can call me again, okay?
Susan's Voice: Well, bye.
Tony: Bye...bye.
Interior, Chelsea Cafe, Night
Crowded. And a guitarist. Tony sat at the table and greeted the waiter. She ended up at Tony's table and helped him clear the table of the glasses and saucers that had been used. She looked like Vera for a moment as she leaned over the table. Tony held the menu blankly.
Waiter: Come back in a while, sir.
She left, leaving him alone. When she walked back to him, she was stopped by another table. He began to tap the knife lightly, then suddenly stood up and walked to the door. The cashier looked at him.
Cashier: Hello, sir. Need to checkout?
Tony: No, I didn't order anything.
He went out the door.
EXT, Brompton (Note 4) Road, night
It's snowing. It is late at night. A storm is coming in the distance. Tony walks alone on the road.
EXTERNAL, Knightsbridge Square, Tony's House, Night
Snowflakes fluttered in the sky. Tony is walking towards the door. Walk slowly up the outside steps.
INTERIOR, TONY'S APARTMENT, LOBBY, NIGHT
Tony turned on the light and threw his coat on the foyer cloak table. He stood uneasy. I looked at the mail, threw it aside without opening it, and walked to the kitchen.
INT. TONY'S APARTMENT, KITCHEN, NIGHT
Tony walked in, turned on the light, poured a glass of water, put some ice in it, and took a sip. He put the cup in the sink, sat down, picked up the newspaper, and stared. He started looking for a cup, so he put down the newspaper, got up, picked up the cup, drank, and stood there. He turned around suddenly. Vera stood at the door.
Vera: Oh! ...I thought who it was.
Tony: Are you...what are you doing here?
Vera: I was about to go to bed, and then—I seem to hear something.
Tony: But didn't you go to Manchester?
Vera: I didn't feel well at the train station, so he called a taxi to take me back.
Silent. The faucet is dripping.
Tony: Sent you back?
Vera: Yes...
The faucet drips.
Tony: How are you feeling now?
Vera: I feel better.
He stared at Vera. She laughed.
Tony: Want me to get you a glass of water?
Vera: I'm glad you're back. I thought he was back.
Tony: Is he gone?
Vera: Oh yes - yes, he's gone. I'm glad I'm not alone. I don't want to be alone in this house.
The faucet drips. Tony screwed on the faucet, then turned around. Silent.
Vera: Do you need me to do something for you, sir?
Tony: No... no...
The phone rang. They look at the phone. Tony didn't move. The bell stopped.
Vera bowed her feet and leaned on the edge of the table.
Vera: ...oh...it's so hot in here...isn't it?
Pots, bowls and saucers gleamed on the shelves.
Vera: It's too hot.
The whole kitchen is shining, including the gas stove, all kinds of pots and so on. Vera leaned back and sat firmly, her skirt halfway up her thighs.
Tony: Your skirt is too short.
Vera (looking at her legs): My what? All girls dress like this. They all dress like this...what's the matter? Do you think it's too short?
He approached the table. She raised her hand as if to touch his face.
is it hot?
An abrupt hug.
Oh, this is so good, so good. Oh that's so good!
The figures of the two men twisted and twisted on the shiny cookware.
interior, hall, night
Barrett came in, checked the mail, and walked to the kitchen.
interior, kitchen
Barrett surveyed the two plates on the table, which contained some chicken bones. Tony appeared at the kitchen door.
Tony: Oh, hello, Barrett, how is your mother?
Barrett: Still recovering from treatment, sir.
Tony: Oh, good, good. Little Vera wasn't very well that day?
Barrett walked to the sink with the plate.
Barrett: Yeah, not good. She looked so miserable at the train station, sir. I don't think it would be wise for her to travel sick. I hope she didn't cause you any inconvenience.
Tony: Oh, not at all. No, not at all.
Barrett: She still tried to do something for you, sir?
Tony looked at him alertly.
Tony: What did you say.
Barrett: I hope she cooks for you when she gets better.
Tony: Oh yes, yes...we...had lunch.
Barrett: I noticed she didn't do the dishes.
Tony: Haven't slowed down yet.
Barrett: Nothing slowed down, sir?
Tony: This weather is really strong.
Barrett: Oh, yes.
Tony: Also, Barrett, can I trouble you to go to the store and get me some beer? I feel really thirsty.
Barrett: And lots of beer, sir.
Tony: Yes, I know, but I'd like to have a regular light beer.
Barrett: Of course, sir.
Barrett left.
interior, hall, night
Barrett just walked out the front door. Tony appeared almost immediately, calling upstairs.
Tony: Vera!
Vera: Yes, sir?
Tony: Come down for a while.
Vera: Here I am. Where are you?
Tony: Come here. He is back.
He stepped into the door of the study. She came down the stairs. He hugged her from behind as she passed him. She screams, spins, giggles.
Vera: Oh, you...what do you want to do?
He pulled her into the study.
interior, corner of the study
He made Vera sit down in the leather chair.
Vera: I have to go do the dishes.
Tony: I sent him to the store, he'll be back in a minute.
Vera: Who cares about him?
Tony: How to say, he's your brother.
Vera: What do you want to do?
(Giggle.)
Exterior, Knightsbridge Square, night
Barrett walked steadily towards Tony's apartment.
exterior, study, night
Vera and Tony hugged.
EXT. TONY'S APARTMENT
Barrett went up the front steps and opened the door.
interior, study, night
Tony and Vera were half lying on the table. Tony heard the door open.
Tony: Come down at 12 o'clock.
He hurried through the study door and slipped into the garden.
interior, hall, night
Vera meets Barrett at the foot of the stairs. She looked at him.
Vera: I'm going to bed, I'm tired.
He watched her go upstairs, then he went to the living room.
interior, kitchen, room at night
Barrett poured a brown ale. Tony walked into the kitchen through the garden door.
Tony: Oh, hello, Barrett. I just went to the garden to get some air.
Barrett: It's cold outside, sir.
Tony: Got a beer? Oh great.
Barrett: Do you need anything else, sir?
Tony: No, thank you. I'll be out soon, but I'll be back by... midnight. You don't have to wait for me all the time. I will carry the door key myself.
Barrett: Well, sir.
Tony picked up the light beer, took a sip, and grinned.
interior, living room, night
Later, it was almost midnight. Tony is drinking whiskey. He got up, looked at his watch, and went out.
interior, hall, night
Tony came out of the living room and went upstairs.
interior, landing, night
Tony came up the hall and continued down the stairs to the landing on the top floor.
interior, top landing, night
No lights. Tony climbed the stairs, looked warily at the door of Barrett's room, and knocked very carefully on the door of Vera's bedroom. After a while, Vera's voice came through the keyhole.
Vera: Okay, I'll be right there. You go down first.
Tony went downstairs.
There was a pause. The lights in Vera's room turned on. She opened the door carefully and peered outside.
INTERIOR, VERA'S BEDROOM, NIGHT
A shot from above the stairs. As Vera opened the door and came out, the footage showed Barrett lying on her bed, reaching for a newspaper and reading. She draws.
interior, living room, night
In the dim light, Tony took Vera into his arms.
Tony: Are you cold?
Vera: No.
Tony: How is he? Is he asleep?
Vera: There's no light in his room.
He stared at her. He laid her down on the leather chair, then turned the chair so that she faced him. Her legs stretched out across the arms of the leather chair.
interior, ground floor, daytime
Vera knocked on Tony's bedroom door.
Tony: Come in.
Vera: Can I clean up, sir?
She went in. The camera stops on the closed door.
interior, hall, day
Barrett came out of the kitchen, went to the recess under the stairs, and hid there.
interior view, aisle at the bottom of the stairs, daytime
Vera slipped out of Tony's room, blushing, and went down the steps with the cutlery tray.
interior, hall, day
Vera went down the stairs, put the tray on the table in the hall, and looked in the mirror. Suddenly, Barrett's hand reaches her from behind. He dragged her out of the picture. First her short high-pitched sound, then his unpleasant "Aha". At this time, the phone ringing came from outside the picture. The camera is on the empty hall.
INTERIOR, TONY'S BEDROOM, DAY
Tony was still in bed. He is answering the phone.
Tony: Hello.
Susan's Voice: Hello.
Tony: Oh, hello, Susan.
Susan's Voice: Did you get my note? I guess you must be very busy?
Tony: Yes. I'm really busy and things are always one after the other.
Susan's Voice: Okay, so when are you going to call me?
Tony: About half past two. There should be enough time for us so that we can all get there. I'm having lunch with my father's legal counsel.
Susan's Voice: All right. See you there.
Tony: Alright. goodbye.
Susan: Goodbye.
interior, hall, day
Tony ran upstairs and pushed open the door to Vera's bedroom.
INTERIOR, VERA'S BEDROOM, DAY
Vera was lying on the bed. She was pale, trembling and exhausted. Tony walked into the house.
Tony: What's going on?
Vera looked like a child, still trembling.
Tony: What's the matter? what happened?
Vera: I'm not very well.
He sat down on the bed.
Tony: Did something happen?
no answer. He touched her hand.
Tony: He's out...I...
She looked at him, smiling, but extremely suspicious. She spoke suddenly in a high, sharp voice, mixed with a bitter hysteria.
Vera: Come on then.
interior, hall, day
Barrett opens the front door for Susan. Susan holds flowers in her hands.
Barrett: I'm sorry the master is not at home.
Susan: I know. Help me get something from the taxi.
Barrett walked out of the apartment and picked up a package from the taxi. Susan went into the living room.
interior, living room
Susan picked up a vase. Barrett came in.
Susan: Fill the vase with water. Where is the package?
Barrett: In the hall, miss.
Susan: Bring it to me.
Barrett picked up the package and brought it into the house. He went out with the vase, and then came in again with the vase. Susan arranges flowers in a vase.
Susan: What do you think, Barrett?
Barrett: I can't say for sure. Different bottles have different effects, ma'am.
Susan: I knew you couldn't be sure, Barrett.
(She opened the package, took out several small cushions, and threw them on the sofa.)
Susan: What do you think of these cushions?
Barrett: What did you say?
Susan: What do you think of these cushions?
Barrett: It's hard to tell how I feel about them, miss.
Susan: Can I tell you the truth, Barrett?
Barrett: Yes, miss.
Susan: The truth is, I don't care what you think.
Pause for a while.
Susan: I want to have some lunch. Just get some salad. Just made it with the tarragon I bought on Wednesday.
Barrett: Yes, miss.
She pulled out a cigarette.
Susan: Fire...Put that coat down and light a fire for me.
Barrett lights her a cigarette. Barrett walked to the door.
Susan: Barrett! come over.
He walked towards her.
Susan: Do you use deodorant?
He stared at her.
Susan: Tell me. Do you think you're good at matching colors?
Barrett: I think the owner is satisfied.
Susan: What do you want from this home?
Barrett: Got?
Susan: Yes, get?
Barrett: I'm a servant, miss.
Susan: Go and prepare my lunch.
EXT, LORD MONSET'S VILLA, DAY
Very elegant tower shaped residence. There are flower beds and pergolas everywhere. The undulating fields spread to the lake. Rows of poplar trees. Continuing all the way, there are two figures by the lake. The camera shoots at them from a distance for a while. They are throwing snowballs.
exterior, lakeside, daytime
Tony and Susan are running. They stop and kiss.
Susan: Why don't you come to my house? There is a beautiful view from my house. Or how is your home? What is the view from your house?
Tony: The view from my house is not very good.
Susan smiled.
Tony: The best view...is the view from the two of us...the apartment. How about we leave together tonight.
Susan: Would it be a little abrupt?
Tony: No...no...they wouldn't mind.
INT. TONY'S CAR, NIGHT
Tony is driving. Susan snuggled beside him.
Exterior, Knightsbridge Square, night
The car drove into the square and drove to the edge of the apartment. The car slows down.
interior, car, night
Tony: The lights are still on in my room. 12 to 15 minutes. Who the hell is in my room?
INTERIOR, TONY'S APARTMENT, LOBBY, NIGHT
The hall was pitch black. Tony opened the front door gently. He walked cautiously to the top of the stairs, slowly ascending halfway, then stopped. Susan stayed downstairs.
His door was open a crack, revealing a gleam of light. speaking voice:
Barrett: Another one.
Vera: You just smoked one.
Barrett: Yeah, I want to smoke another one.
pause.
Vera: The damn smoke, it drives you crazy.
Barrett: You're driving me crazy.
pause.
Vera: Come on... oh come on, put that down for God's sake.
Barrett: I just took a breath.
Vera: Oh, well, let it go.
Barrett: I'm exhausted. what's wrong with you?
Villa: I know people who never say no.
Barrett: Him? He might be downstairs.
The creaking of the bed, then the rapid rustling.
Barrett: Let me finish this one. You are like a horrible machine.
Vera: I know I am, but I really can't help it.
Tony pressed his head against the wall.
Susan: It's your servant.
The room suddenly fell silent. Hear Barrett.
Barrett: Someone.
Vera: No, no one.
Barrett: Did you lock the door?
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