Following the announcement of general mobilization
as of today August 28, 1939
there now follows a statement from Her Majesty the Queen.
Compatriots,
in this serious hour where we have
committed our land and naval forces
to prepare for war
one needs to speak to you to focus
on how serious the situation is
not that we have lost all hope of a peaceful solution
with the powers that are descending on us
There's no option!
What you have now you could lose tomorrow.
What to do with good advice and opinions?
Don't hesitate but grab your stuff and join up!
No, there's no option! There's no option...
The train is departing!
The whole journey is punctuated by questions.
I asked my ex: why, how, what?
And does this vehicle, this fearful journey,
lead us to death...?
You are alone,
though there are thousands like you now on their feet.
What is that Adolf Hilter? With the sick mind!
War is something which you only read about in newspapers...
There's no option!
What you have now you could lose tomorrow.
What to do with good advice and opinions?
Don't hesitate but grab your stuff and join up!
No, there's no option!
If Germany attacks us we are lost!
We are still neutral - it should pass us by!
This army of ours, man! We've got nothing!
- They come at us with tanks! - We're on our bikes...
At every station there are men like us waiting on the platform.
You can see the questions and fear on their faces.
The call-up was clear and permitted no excuse:
it is your duty.
There's no option!
What you have now you could lose tomorrow.
What to do with good advice and opinions?
Don't hesitate but grab your stuff and join up!
No, there's no option!
There's no option!
Amsterdam Central Amsterdam Central Station
What time does the connecting train leave?
Um, another half hour.
Good, then I've got time for a coffee at the Victoria Hotel.
Ah, I'm stopping for a smoke on the platform, it's free.
- Is this the train to Reenen? - It leaves from 4B in half an hour.
Hey, wait for me!
Hey man, you've dropped you stuff!
Ah, go fuck it all.
Where have I heard those words before?
Damn me. Ha, Mr Bruijs.
Ciske, I saw your name on the list.
- Are you going to Reenen? - Yes, I'm the sergeant for the unit.
And I'm a soldier first class, so I'll do as you say.
Don't I know it.
I happened to speak to Aunt Jans about you yesterday.
Oh, how is she?
A bit of rheumatism, but she still spends all day washing and ironing.
- And your father? - Dad!
Haha, he's still gets a bit crazy.
- How are you? - I'm doing alright.
You look tired.
Had a few rough nights, just need some sleep.
Are you worried about the war?
No, no, no... no
But sometimes my mind is clouded with thoughts of eh...
But what am I moaning about, it's really nothing to complain about.
- And how are you doing? - Oh, my children are healthy,
and next year I'll have been working at the high school for ten years.
Oh, do you still live on Manning Street?
No, no, no... When our third came along, the house was too small.
Suus and I now live further east in Plantage Badlaan.
- How many children do you have now? - 3 - So...
The youngest, Kobus, is as old as you were when you came to my class.
I remember when your first was born.
Yes, time goes by quickly.
Ha ha, Mr Maatsuyker was in a right state when you came to our school.
The school year has barely started, but trouble is beating at my door!
Ah, who is the cause of this...?!
How do I avoid it...?!
Because I get bluntly
told by an official
that a very cheeky brat
starts here at school today!
As for being a brat,
it's here in black and white:
a nasty piece of work.
And what is this gentleman called?
- Ciske Vrijmoeth. - It can't be true?
Well, that's it, we're finished!
Oh, do you know him?
It's always something.
It's always, always, always always something
with Ciske the rat!
What did you say that guy is called, Maatsuyker?
Vrijmoeth, Francicus Gerardus Vrijmoeth
He comes from the Catholic school, with Mr Verdoeven?
- Yeah, that's right. - They seem to be riff-raff.
At the school where he was before,
he defied the whole class:
without the teacher seeing
- he put frogs in her bag! - What?
She almost had a heart attack
when her bag went 'quack-quack-quack!'
So it didn't take long:
Ciske was expelled from school.
And now you're trying
to tell us that we
should try to turn him
into a decent person...?!
No, no, no, rats belong in the sewer.
And certainly not here at school,
We are teachers Maatsuyker, not rat catchers from Hamelen.
- It's always something. - It's always something.
It's always, always, always always something
with Ciske the rat!
And who gets the brat in their classroom?
- Not me I hope! - Nor me either!
I already have 48 of those brats.
I was thinking of Mr Bruijs.
Bruijs? But he is much too soft for such a rascal.
Exactly, because he has proposed to ban the cane.
Ridiculous proposal!
It's part of the educational experience to get a little slap.
The only way to keep difficult students under control.
Ciske Vrijmoeth has made himself a name
of very dubious reputation;
He is the ringleader of the neighbourhood.
And it started with small things;
he called his teacher a "bitch"
and was sent home from school.
That he is so, I understand,
is because his mother is the only one at home
and spends all night at the pub.
- As a cheap hooker. - What is that mama, a hooker?
Just ask your dad!
Ciske oh Ciske!
With Ciske it's always something.
You're kidding!
Ciske oh Ciske!
He'll end up at the gallows.
He wanders the streets all day,
always looking for mischief.
And yesterday he called me: "Mill horse!"
But yes, his father is never home;
he's often months away from home,
because he's a stoker on a tramp vessel.
And in the church, behind the school,
he drew with black charcoal,
a mustache on the statue!
This is the trouble he causes.
Ciske oh Ciske!
- With Ciske it's always something! - He's scum!
Ciske oh Ciske!
Ciske! Ciske!
- It's always something. - It's always something.
It's always, always, always
- always something with Ciske the rat - He'll end up at the gallows.
- Ciske the rat! - The rat!
How long do you think we'll have to stay in Reenen?
No idea, it depends on the whims on Mr Hitler,
but I think, uh... a few weeks.
That would be good, at the end of September, I sign on again.
I'm going to the cape, and Sumatra!
Sumatra?
I envy you, you've seen more of the world than me.
Say, we should go get our place on the train.
You go on, I'll be right along.
The windows of the houses are like eyes,
following me as I stroll through the city.
It's like they say: "No shenanigans, Rat!"
But I was bluffing again: Hey! Had you there.
Amsterdam...
Nothing's more beautiful than the Blue Bridge with its arches,
as it emerges from the mist in the spring.
Where I, in the Amstel, fished for pike.
And in the winter I pissed my name in the snow!
Amsterdam, hey try catch me!
Amsterdam, yes you can!
From an early age I knew every street,
every nook and cranny of my Jordaan!
Amsterdam!
I gotta go now...
My Amsterdam.
As long as I can hear the bells of Westertoren,
I know: I belong to Amsterdam!
Your canals, alleys and your avenues
have always been a refuge for me.
And Saturday fun in the bar of Blue Hein;
as they sing the praises of Amsterdam!
From the people I hide my tears:
the pain that never goes away...
Because every day brings the pain of the past.
Like a cancer to the bitter end.
Amsterdam, hey try catch me!
Amsterdam, yes you can!
From an early age I knew every street,
every nook and cranny of my Jordaan!
- Amsterdam! - Amsterdam, I'll see you again!
- Amsterdam! - Amsterdam, until next time!
I never get lost, because I come from here.
Yes, I was born in the Jordaan!
As long as I can hear
the bells of the tower
I know:
- I belong to Amsterdam! - Amsterdam... Amsterdam...
Hey Ciske, don't forget the groceries when you return from school.
Otherwise you won't eat tonight.
Then you have to give me the dough!
I'll leave it up at the bar.
- Mom! - Yeah...
Can't you come with me, to the new school.
I don't know anybody there.
You're not usually this shy.
And don't mess up, or I'll tell your father everything when he comes home.
Grown-ups are always telling me what to do.
They act like I'm a child of three.
I hate grown-ups. Don't they know:
This is a beautiful democracy.
I have rights!
Amsterdam, hey try catch me!
Amsterdam, yes you can!
From an early age I knew every street,
every nook and cranny of my Jordaan!
Amsterdam!
Here I am,
My Amsterdam.
As long as I can hear the bells of Westertoren,
I know: I belong to Amsterdam!
Are you Mr Bruijs?
And who are you?
- I asked first! - Don't be cheeky.
You have to do what grown-ups tell you...
- What's your name? - Ciske Vrijmoeth
Aha... So you're the cocky little Ciske...
If I were you, I'd keep a very low profile...
Mr Bruijs is in room six.
- Would you mind stepping aside? - Pardon?!
How else am I to get in?! Dumbass!
Say that again if you want to lose your insolent head!
If I had a head like yours? Then I'd run and hide!
- Brat! - Ah! Sourpuss!
Are you an idiot?
Men!
My name is Sergeant Bruijs. As you were.
This school is provisionally allocated as our camp store.
Guys I just heard a good one.
Why are the streets of Paris lined with trees?
Well?
So the Germans can march in the shade.
As soon as well-drilled soliders reach this place, you'll sing a different tune.
Attention!
We are here in Reenen to defend
the Grebbeberg from a possible attack.
But, err.
Prime Minister de Geer said that we still have a treaty with Germany.
Is that being put on hold?
Yes, last week, Europe had a pact between Germany and Russia,
which Hitler easily discarded to deal with Poland.
What we're a kind of message about Poland?
England and France have a treaty with Poland,
for mutual military assistance.
There's a big chance that we'll also get involved.
Could you maybe explain that again in plain English?
Later, later.
In the foyer you can get your gear
and also your issue of weapons and ammunition.
Be careful, it's not a toy.
The first exercise is this afternoon. Dismissed, march!
Hey, Cis!
Look, that's the blackboard
which hung in our classroom. Um, when... Columbus discovered America.
That was in 1492.
1492, you remember that.
Ha ha, I saw from the front row.
So I could keep a close eye on you.
As if Jantje Verkerk didn't do that.
And Betje sitting behind you.
Yes, Betje, ha ha,
Good, little Betje. My god, was that a stupid child.
Betje and I are engaged...
I know exactly what you mean,
she didn't write to me for 2 months when I was in the East Indies,
because I had sent her a telegram saying I'd been in bed with angina for a week.
She thought I was cheating on her! Ha ha.
Dorus!
We have a new classmate! His name is Ciske.
- Hi - Hi
Why are you in a cart?
Ha, TB, he has TB.
Oh man, mind your own business!
Silence!
We will find you a good place. There beside Jantje Verkerk.
My mother wouldn't allow it. I'll get lice!
Nits would run from you to escape your ugly face!
He got thrown out of his other school,
because he tipped a bottle of ink over the teacher's head.
And you pull the legs off spiders. Animal killer!
Jackass!
Pustule, would you like me to punch you black and blue?
That's enough. We don't have that language in here Vrijmoeth.
- I'll hold my tongue. - Can he sit next to me sir?
That's good! Uh... Brammetje.
Let's do some history! Where did we get to?
Columbus discovering America, sir!
Very good, and why did Columbus call the people there Indians?
Uh, Betje?
Sir, Jantje has thrown my sandwich on the roof.
Your sandwich? With intent?
No, sir. With cheese.
Bruijs.
Bruijs!
Can Ciske Vrijmorth come with me?
Well, you heard him.
What did he do sir?
What's it to do with you?
I don't know what gets into his head!
That you're engaged to Betje, that doesn't surprise me at all.
- She's a nice girl. - You shouldn't run away!
Oh man, we don't have a chance against the Germans!
We're neutral and we'll remain neutral, why should we get involved in the war.
Because the Krauts come with hundreds
of sophisticated hunters and bombers. That's why!
Ha ha, is that the dinner bell?
No, that means we have to report outside.
Men, out on the school playground in 5 minutes!
And have Betje and you made wedding plans?
Oh no, when you get married, you have to think about children, well... uh
- it scares the hell out of me. - Still thinking differently.
Some people worry more about taking care of a canary,
then looking after a child. Well.
Stop it!
Stop the crying!
Make her stop.
- Hey Aunt Chris. - Hey, I'm just going.
Don't we still say hello?
Say brat, I'm talking to you!
Oh man, hell!
You'd better watch that mouth of yours,
I'm stuck at home all day
and the last thing I need is your lip!
Leave the boy alone.
What's it to do with you?
Is he your son?
Housewife and mother
what a misery!
'Mother' comes from 'tired'; Take it from me!
Housewife and mother
of this whole rabble.
What a sad existence...
Your father returns home today from the east, you know?
Brill!
I'll even tell him what a brat you are!
Maybe he'll have brought me a monkey?
Or a Papuan spear!
That is exactly what I mean! It's only hobbies, hobbies, hobbies!
And he brings not a penny home!
But from today that is over, boy!
You come with me tonight to the pub!
You can get the glasses
and rinse them!
No, it's not for nothing that the word 'marriage'
rhymes with 'damage' and 'savage'!
It's a nightmare from which you never wake up.
The man can't wait for the first wedding night,
So that in a jiffy a child is made.
But your body goes through these small Philistinic changes,
and you know that following pregnancy comes birth:
because while you give birth, the midwife comes with scissors
and shows you your ripped body!
So don't come to me with: Children are treasures!
They're rats!
Real rats!
- Is this the right house? - Father!
Hey stinker! Ha ha ha ha
Wow man, look how much you've grown.
He eats me out of house and home.
Giddy-up!
- Hey, can't you find your feet? - Why, my buttercup.
Mmm, hey, damn, you smell like gin.
It's what I was drinking before I came to this paradise.
You should have stayed in the pub!
My god, you're worse than I remembered.
Hey Chris, darling, how are you?
- Hey did you see that! - Come down from there.
- I'm going out again. - Have you any dough for me?
- Leave it at the bar. - Is that all you want
- after all this time... - He doesn't want to pester you!
He didn't even read your postcards.
- You're lying! - I'm not blind.
- He goes astray. - Yeah.
Like your uncle Marinus.
Oh darling, give me some dough.
Then I can pay off our debts.
Then we'll go for a gin with friends.
Why were you not at the harbour?
Didn't I write when I was coming back home?
I've not had a card from you for months!
What?
Do you have any exciting adventures?
Yes, you bet. I was almost eaten by cannibals.
Really?
Yes, but fortunately there was a fat missionary.
He gave them three days of feasting.
Uh yeah. Ha ha ha.
And what shall we do? Your choice!
Watch monkeys at the zoo!
Oh, we just left the rattlesnake at home and he wants to go to the zoo,
well come on!
Hey
Whether you're human or animal, everyone has fun
for one day here at the zoo!
Every monkey acts like a fool, but they feel proud
of their rock here at the zoo!
And that elephent over there, it's like Aunt Klaar
With a round ass and as heavy as a ton!
Look pa, what's over there! Has that penguin escaped?!
No, my son, that's just a nun!
Watching and being watched,
that's what this is all about!
Watching and being watched,
On whichever side of the fence you sit.
Artis zoo in September...
From the red trees fall the first leaf.
Artis zoo in September...
An oasis filled with dreams, in the middle of our city.
And a boy kisses his girl.
Daddy, I get an ice cream now?!
- No, you're getting nothing. - But that boy has one.
- Yeah, so what? - Nah, come see the little Okapi.
Whether the sun shines or not: whether it is dry or pouring,
you can enjoy being here at the zoo!
And later as a man, can momentarily return,
by dreaming of being here in the zoo!
Look, the polar bear is sweating, well, he got so hot!
Indeed, our climate is too warm.
And the squid pair are in love:
swimming arm, arm in arm, arm in arm, arm in arm!
Swimming arm, arm in arm, arm in arm!
Artis zoo in September...
From the red trees fall the first leaf.
Artis zoo in September...
An oasis filled with dreams, in the middle of our city.
And a boy kisses his girl.
- Dad, can I have some ice cream? - Don't pester me for money.
- Oh Dad I was longing for an ice cream! - No, you get quite ...
Here boy Take the mine.
- Look dad, there's a monkey! - Yes.
- What a lot of them, huh. - Well,
- they are just like people.
Look at it! He's got a red ass.
Hey, look here.
For you from India, a pocket knife inlaid with mother of pearl.
Oh wow, no way.
Yes, balloons!
He he he he!
Are you a total idiot?
Listen, we need to talk.
Listen, er.
Your mother...
- How should I say this? - Fucking shrew!
Hey, watch it.
Come here.
Your mother and I don't, don't, uh,
get on well with each other, so...
I'm going to live somewhere else.
- Can I come live with you? - Yes, maybe later.
For now just keep living with your mother and Aunt Chris.
When I leave school, I want to go sailing. Just like you.
I hate that damn school, it's a bitch!
Now listen to this, young man.
You work hard at school!
You'll learn stuff, maths, writing, learn to speak foreign languages.
- Yes, but it's... - Uh, no buts.
See that lion there in his cage?
He was the king of the savannah;
now he is relegated to a pen
and suddenly the hunter became prey!
That parrot there on its branch:
once an outlaw and without reins.
But man clipped his wings.
And yes, now he takes it easy.
Want to be a man? Make sure
you're never enslaved or caged!
Be always brave and never afraid.
You see that dog there with his master?
He spends his life on a rope;
his freedom is two metres long.
Often the appearance of freedom is false,
and you walk nicely to their line!
If there's ever war or fuss,
think carefully whether you give
your life as cannon fodder...
And do it anyway - do not hesitate!
Show you're full of courage, boy! And fight!
Because it's better to die than be a servant!
Hey my darling, Suus.
- I just... - 29 errors, in Betje's dictation.
She's improving.
- I went this afternoon... - And here Ciske, the new boy,
what should I do with him?
He's cheeky and easily distracted, and suddenly today,
after school he comes to me and asks why Dorus isn't coming on the school trip.
- And what did you say? - Yes, that we're going to Zandvoort.
Dorus' cart can't cope with the soft sand.
- You know what he said? - Well?
If you carry Dorus, I'll carry his cart.
Ciske has got Betje to help. Betje says to me:
Note that I don't abandon Dorus.
Sweetie, then it's solved! Dorus can go on the school trip.
Of course not! It's too tricky.
What do you mean, tricky!?
Dorus is still part of the class! That child hardly has anything.
I'll have to ask his parents and see what they think.
Honey, you need to convince his parents it's what he needs.
A little healthy sea air is good for that boy.
Suus dear, oh excuse me. How was your day?
Uh oh, nothing special.
I went to the doctor's this afternoon. He thinks I'm six weeks pregnant.
Really?!
Oh, my darling!
From now on you must slow down.
No more heavy shopping bags!
An hour's rest at noon.
This is quite normal. It's not a disease.
Saturday and Sunday, I cook.
Honey, if you want to warm the bed, then I'll get the tea cups.
It's good. Unbelievable.
She's pregnant!
Everything I ever dreamed of,
I've got everything...
And I'm also well
aware of my happiness.
No, may they never disappear -
all those fragile moments...
It's like blossom in spring -
and you know: this will pass.
So why am I still afraid
of losing what I have -
once the tide turns...
I have a husband and a child soon!
And I know that this can not be better;
no more complete!
Am I worth it or is there 'punishment'?
Since this much happiness and prosperity
is a one off.
When this happiness turns away from me...?
Child, how can I protect you,
from the storms in your life?
Is your future already written,
or will your life have "good luck"?
Everything of value is so tender, and so I realize
more and more:
soon something will break...
Over here! Look sir! The zee!
Don't go in the sea.
My father is a sailor,
but I've never seen the zee before.
Ciske, it's sea.
- Zee. - No, sea.
- Zee. - And now with an S. Sea.
- S-S-Sea. - Very good!
Yes, I know how it's said!
My father says it's a spectacular sight when the sun disappears below the horizon.
Put Dorus' cart a little bit away from the zee, er sea.
Have fun! But don't wander off.
Guys, I have a ball!
Yeahhhhh! Yes, throw it here! Yes, throw it here!
Hey Cis.
Creep! Just try that with me.
Fight! Fight!
Hey hey hey hey! Are you completely mad.
He took Betje's hat and threw it around.
- Then you come to me! - You won't see me tattle!
If this happens again,
we take the first train back to Amsterdam. Got it?
Yes, and then both the good and bad suffer.
- So what do we say to each other? - I'm sorry sir.
- What?
I'm sorry sir!
Go have some fun, later we'll have a picnic.
Picnic, picnic yes.
Hey Cis.
- England is on the other side. - I already knew that!
Where? I can't see it!
No, you can't see it. It's too far away!
Ooh, and angels live there?
Angels? What makes you think that?
Dorus said Angel country.
No, no, England.
Is it scary there?
I should say so, it's far from here.
Sir, sir!
How's the digging of the trenches going?
We look like a bunch of Germans at Zandvoort!
Say do you remember when you asked me if Dorus could go on the school trip.
No? Did I ask you that?
We've come here because we need lots of time to practice,
but I seem to be spending more and more time thinking of the past.
I guess it comes with old age.
The older you get, the more you think of the past.
And Cis, just enjoy the sun.
When I was younger I alway thought of: 'later!'
When I was younger I dreamed of the water.
To be free! To be just like him.
With the wind in my hair. A sail on every sea.
Away from fear and pain!
'Later' would be when I grow up.
Do you know what you want to do when you're grown up?
A housewife of course, and I want:
A garden full of buttercups
and a cat that always purrs.
Three babies to kiss,
and a hat with a ribbon.
With a Christmas tree full of balls,
and a ring of gold,
And a dear, dear, darling who loves me very much.
Later, I'll be like my old man.
Later... carried around the world!
To be free! To be just like him.
With the wind in my hair. A sail on every sea.
Away from that angry crab!
Later when I grow up.
And surely you will study?
I'm going to be a doctor and I want:
A cabinet full of fine books and a framed map,
so I can follow where in the world you travel.
I want a mutt who is loveable and very loyal.
But really a dear, dear, darling whom I love very much.
When I was younger I always thought of: 'later!'
Later, I'll be like my old man.
When I was younger I dreamed of the water.
carried around the world!
To be free! To be just like him.
But how many of your beautiful dreams
really come true?
I know: it's just window-dressing...
Later, when I grow up.
I want a mutt...
And a ring of gold...
And a dear, dear, darling who loves me very much...
Wow!
I'm just checking I've got it right.
Six, seven shirts and 1, 2, 3, 4 vests. Yes all there! So...
- Good afternoon! - Good afternoon.
And 2, 4, 6, 8 pairs of socks.
Well, was that it? Shall I pack them for you?
- Please! - Bye!
What a nice woman. What pretty sight.
And how blue her eyes.
Would she allow me?
Well, I'd quite like to know.
Stop it man! You can forget it,
because someone like her
is not the one for me...
- I'll be right with you. - Yes, yes.
What a rugged guy. What a pretty sight.
Jans, you're quite fine.
Would he allow me?
Yes, I would quite like to know.
Oh stop it! You can forget it,
because someone like him is not one for me...
- Well, that's pretty much everyting. - By tomorrow, after four.
What a nice woman. What pretty sight.
And how blue her eyes.
Jans, you're keeping well. What a pretty sight.
What a rugged guy. But would he allow me?
Would she allow me?
Yes, I would quite like to know.
Oh stop it, you can forget it.
For someone like her / him
is not one for me...
- What can I do for you? - Is this the right place for laundry?
- It has been for the last 14 years. - So... Did you start when you were 10?
- Hey do you want to hug... - Oh no, no, no... the laundry.
Oh yes, of course the laundry.
Yes.
By tomorrow, after four!
That's good!
- Where do you live? - You want my address?
- For the receipt. - Yes, of course.
- Bittekaren 19. - Yes.
That is double, uh, T.
Just washed or also ironed?
Or does you wife prefer to do that?
I've been alone for some time, so, uh...
And you?
Me also.
Would you perhaps come for a little drink with me?
Well I'm here alone,
and the shop is open until ten tonight.
- Nevermind. - Well no,
and then to go for a drink with you when I don't know you...
Ho ho ho. I'm Frans.
- Jans. - Yes, I know.
Jans and Frans together in a trance, that rhymes!
But we could of course, uh, have something to drink, uh, here,
Frans.
Yes, I'm ready for a drink.
Oh, I've only got gin, do you like that?
No idea, but it comes from berries so it must be good for you.
I knew that...
I have to keep an eye on the time,
gotta pick up my son when he returns from his school trip.
You have a son? How nice.
- Do you have children? - I had a son of three,
but he died seven years ago from Spanish flu.
Just like my husband, in one week, both gone.
- Oh my poor girl. - Yeah.
Yes, I have had my fair share of it, yes.
Oh, here you are! Nice to make your acquaintance.
- Cheers! - Cheers!
God damn,
you drink this for fun? It's like nun's pee.
Nun's pee.
Oh sorry, I didn't mean that. I've just never had it before!
Yeahhhh, come on!
Hey Mom!
We have had so much fun.
There honey. It wasn't too tiring for him?
He didn't move, I pushed his cart around.
- Yes, but you wanted to! - Yes, but I had...
Mr Professor.
It went well, hey, Dorus.
Yes, sir.
I've been worrying all day.
- Hey, thank the master, son. - Thank you, sir.
- Gooood!
You've been talking for long enough. I'm starting to grow roots.
- Mrs Vrijmoeth! - Good day Mr Bruijs.
You son was very well behaved.
Well, that may be the official story. But it's not so easy, at home.
Is his father not here?
No, but Uncle Henry is. You know him?
Yes, Uncle Henry from the pub.
Give Uncle Henry your hand.
- May I introduce ourselves? - Mr Buijs, Henri Dejiel.
Bruijs is the name. Buijs or Bruijs, it's only a letter but it matters.
Well, 1 letter can make a world of difference.
Look, if you forget the L in the word pils,
then it's no longer a drink.
Ha ha, yeah, piss. Hey where did you steal that?
It isn't snatched, honest, I got it from Dorus.
You'll only ruin your eyes with all that junk.
Now hurry along, we've got lots to do!
I'm tired! I don't want to go to the pub.
You're taking the boy to work?
Only so I can keep an eye on him.
Otherwise he justs gets into mischief. Henri.
Hénri!
You've had the whole day to lark about, now you can do something useful.
If you have him working in a pub, I'll report you to the children's inspectorate.
What's it to do with you? Do you have any bedwetters yourself?
- No, but that isn't relevant... - Then you have no right to judge.
Education is always down to the mother, and they know the best short cuts.
Come with me!
Yeah, piss off!
You should go this way. The western exit is closed.
Yes, they are rebuilding.
Hey guv, guv! Is that the train from Zandvoort?
With Mr Bruijs' school trip?
Yeah, those guys have already gone.
What's wrong, mate?
A letter from my mother.
She writes that she really misses me.
- Is yours also from your mother? - No, no, no, no.
- No, from my girl. - Oh, what's her name?
- Betje! - Mine's called Hilda.
Oh look, this is her.
So... You've only got half of her!?
Yes, she is quite sturdy, that's why.
- Nice hat. - That's her hair!
Hey, what's your girl like?
It's obvious she'll never win a Nobel Prize.
She's not a fashionable girl, yeah.
She prefers chatting with her friends than opening a book.
Here! Her letters are blotchy and full of errors:
also she's not artistic, er, or sporty.
So not a dream woman - but that's what's funny:
I still find you so indescribably sweet!
I'll let you see my world. I'll take you with me!
A hundred times round the Earth, over land and over sea!
I'll let you see the world. We travel through time.
Darling, darling Betje...
I want to never lose you!
My greatest desire with you right now is that you step into this school.
Just the two of us together: and this time we'd escape.
If I were Leo da Vinci, I'd say: "Darling Bet,
Yes, just a little pose, so I can paint your portrait!"
I'll let you see my world. I'll take you with me!
A hundred times round the Earth, over land and over sea!
I often miss the spot, baby, but give me some time.
Darling, darling Betje...
I want to embrace you...
Yes, really embrace you...
Embrace you and not let go.
Betje... Betje...
Not a name for a poem...
But I see your face!
I feel closer...
Yes, closer to you!
Yes, it is anyway. Will we draw something nice?
- Yes, for Jantje. - Good morning.
Good morning Mr Bruijs.
We've got lots to do today. Get your stuff!
Oh, well.
Good morning. I was told to report here.
You're one of the last. Welcome!
Yes, I had only been at the shop for one week when I got my transfer.
Well, let's hope that we can resume our old lives soon.
As you were! Sergeant Bruijs.
Mr Bruijs?
Verkerk? Jan, my boy, how are you?
Other than this stupid mobilization, pretty good.
- How are your parents? - Well, my dad is dead
and my mother has dementia. They worked so hard to have a pleasant life.
Yes, it's terrible.
Say you know who's here. Vrijmoeth!
The rat? Do the other soldiers know about him?
Spikey, which bed is still available?
- Um, the one under Vrijmoeth. - That's your bed!
What a hovel.
I would also much rather it was a classroom, for teaching long division.
Oh no, not long division.
Can't I draw pictures of the school trip?
Maybe this afternoon.
Ciske,
Ciske?
- Vrijmoeth! - Shit!
You will sleep in your bed at home. Go stand in the hall!
- Yes, but I had to all... - Didn't you hear me? Come on!
Little whore.
Jantje Verkerk, get out!
And I want to hear nothing more from the rest of you.
Get to work!
- Sir. - Yes.
Stay seated. Continue with your work.
So, Mareenese, Spike. Your turn on watch.
Hey what the hell, damn it man! That's my bunk!
Hey Ciske. When do things start to happen?
- Yeah, Friday... - The rat!
Yes, I heard from the master that you were here.
Nice. We can reminisce.
I'm asking you politely to leave, or else boy.
Or else what? Or else you'll grab a knife again!
- Dick! - Little whore.
Okay, settle down.
Do you soldier friends know what you did?
Calm down.
Or should I lay it out for them?
I'm not finished with you yet.
I've have never seen this before in my whole career!
Please Maatsuyker, not in front of the class.
Uh, break is one hour early.
- Yeah. Yeah! - Don't rush, please!
Not you, to your seat.
Can you keep hold of the knife,
I assume the police will want it as evidence.
I've got an entire class waiting for me to sit an exam.
That runs to a hundred.
Ciske...
Ciske, what should I do with you?
If you don't learn to control yourself,
then you'll end up doing something really wrong.
But Jantje insulted me!
Then you insult him back.
I'll going to go find out how poor Jantje Verkerk is.
And you stay sat here! Woe betide you if you even dare to move.
Have you seen what that friend of yours is reading?
Hey, he's no friend of mine!
Mein Kampf.
- You know what he used as a bookmark? - Well?
A membership card for the National Socialist Party.
I've heard you got in a fight. Is that true?
I wanted to give him a damn good thumping,
but I didn't lay a finger on Verkerk.
That's true! I witnessed it.
Sir... Sir!
This is a fine pocket knife
that I got from my father, yeah.
Everyone should keep their distance!
It's always something.
It's always, always, always always something
with Ciske the Rat!
- It's always something. - It's always something.
It's always, always, always always something
with Ciske the Rat!
So what the hell have you been up to?
And no lying, because Mr Muiskens is with the juvenile police.
As if I don't know.
- Ciske and I know each other. - Oh, that's how it is.
So he's often in trouble with the police!
Cis, what exactly happened.
He stabbed my son with a knife, that's what happened.
Madam. Cis!
I was sent out of the classroom by Mr Bruijs.
My Jan is never sent out of the class.
And then Jantje started laughing at me.
And then I gave him a push and he called me a little whore!
Then he was sent out of the class
and of course he began to insult me again.
And then you got him with a knife?
I'll be writing a very long letter to the juvenile court judge!
And I'd better not hear that you're brandishing that nasty knife around.
And now get back to your class, before I wring your scrawny neck.
So now you know how you should handle this type of sewer rat.
That's that! So rascal,
you'll be weakend by all the blood loss, huh.
Let me take a look at your wound.
Well that...
Good god, it's a good thing your mom dressed the
wound, otherwise you might have lost your whole arm.
Case closed, Jantje return to your class and you can go home!
Is that it?
You wanted him to be disciplined with ninety-nine lashes?
Sir, Ciske said you wanted to speak to me.
- What time did he tell you? - Ten o'clock.
- It's now half past ten. - Yes.
You are aware of the fact that the child of yours
has stabbed someone with a knife?
What?! Why didn't you tell me that?
- Who are you if I may ask? - Yes, you should know...
It's Aunt Jans, who my father's got his eye on. A lady killer!
Had I not told you to go back to your class.
Is it serious? Stop it!
No, but I'll have to write up a police report on Vrijmoeth
and report to the juvenile court.
I am very concerned.
All he needs is some love and attention.
He's not a bad boy!
No, but you must of course be an example and
you can't even be on time for an appointment.
- What I am concerned about... - His mother has...
him working late in the evening at a pub.
The boy works in a pub?
We need to put an end to that.
Good luck with that. You might as well try to nail a fart to a board.
Ciske has told me that his mother gets drunk every night.
- Is that any way to raise your child? - Bruijs.
Have you ever thought whether you want to be Ciske's guardian?
- Well. - You do it every day in class.
You can best judge if there's something going on.
And if you notice something, you must report this to me.
- Only if his father approves. - Yes. No. Yes. No. No. For ever.
What if Ciske doesn't want it?
God save me from the times where children have their say.
- It's for his own good! - Oh, man!
That's how my father used to talk when I had to eat in the coal shed.
It's for your own good
Your own good!
Yes, it's a bandage that fits any wound.
But what they really want to say:
But just do what I say
And shut up.
Now, tell me, what's that?
Oh, I folded the sheets,
but it didn't quite work.
That was sweet of you, but Ciske,
how about we do it together?
Yes.
I've almost finished the book.
- Just another 20 pages. - Is it a good book?
Yes, everyone dies. Pretty awfully.
I hope that Dorus is at school next week.
And that he has a new one for me.
- Is Dorus sick then? - For over a week.
- I do love you. - Oh, dear Ciske.
Hey. Hey, listen.
You can come here as often as you like, you know that.
Young man, you're not trying to steal my new girl? Are you?
Don't. I'm too big for that.
Oh yeah? Well, fine.
Then you'll get two in the future.
Oh, no, Frans, he's not too big.
We'd better close up. It's Saturday evening, nine o'clock.
I've bought sour onions.
I have to go to mother's. Until tomorrow afternoon.
Is he going to the pub? That isn't right!
Nine!
Nine strikes the clock!
Nine!
The chickens go home to roost!
Nine!
Ladies! Ladies! Sailors on the shore.
Nine!
Hey ladies! Ladies! Girls on the prowl!
Nine!
Who would not want to love rugged sailors!
- Ladies! Ladies! Sailors on the shore! - Nine strikes the clock!
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Now where has my love gone?
1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8
I've been waiting for so long.
Girls come in! It's now over!
It's been nine hours!
Nine hours...
Honey, get me a cigar.
Hey, hands off, pervert!
The customer is king, yes?
The barmaids should radiate a little sex so they order more.
I'm not a pole polisher, if you want that, ask someone else.
Girl, you need to flirt a little.
You don't have to sleep with them.
And that child of yours shouldn't act like a queer.
Here, do something useful.
- Can't you see I'm reading? - No.
Give that back!
Do as Uncle Henry tells you!
And then mop the floor. I want it clean enough to eat off.
- And the dishes as well? - It'll put hairs on your chest.
I said, do as Uncle Henry tells you!
- Yes, but I... - No, do it!
- It's for your own good. - Oh yeah
don't I know it!
- It's for my own good! - Come here
- My own good! - With that beer
That is a phrase that drives me mad.
Because what he really wants to say is just do what I say.
- And shut your mouth! - Hey, stinker!
Father!
What do you want here?
The Ministry of War again.
What sort of mother are you making the boy work in the evenings?
Well, this will be the first time you've been concerned about his upbringing.
- He should already be in bed. - At least this way he learns to work!
You're too lazy to flip a pancake.
You've only got him here to earn you money.
Ciske is only a child!
Is that a llama shitting I hear?
You are such a vulgar woman.
I'd rather beat you blind!
This is exploitation! Pure exploitation!
- It's for his own good! - Kiss my ass!
- His own good! - Nasty scum.
That is a phrase that drives me mad.
Because what he really wants to say is just do what I say.
And shut your mouth!
Mr Bruijs!
Oh, thank god you're here.
Had to bring reinforcements, couldn't do it by yourself?
I take my guardian responsibilies seriously.
You couldn't keep this between you and that whore?
You're not doing anything? Well, we happen to still be married,
so if you don't like my nagging,
you know what a divorce will cost you.
You are such a...
a... a... a...
- Bitch! - Miserable shrew.
So what?
Oh you. You Duchess of ironing.
Ah well, is that so bad?
- It's for his own good. - It's for my own good.
- His own good - His own good
Come on, the child has feelings too
Being a parent only brings misfortune
What I say is truely a fact.
That child has no future ahead of him
If he only learns your views on what is good.
- That's it. - Yes, damn it.
What a child believes is irrelevant
The boy is leaving here now.
That is not up to you, bastard.
- But I do. - And who are you?
Inspector Muysken of the children's police.
A boy of his age should not be up at this hour.
- Can I offer you gents drink? - Ah, one more.
- No, no, no thanks. - And not for me either.
- Oh, come on, have a drink. - You are the owner,
and you let children work at your business.
Work, hey, no,
that pest only drops by because his mother works here.
You stink, you dirty liar.
Frans, Frans, I think that
Mr Muysken and Mr Bruijs can handle this without your help.
Come on.
Let's see,
child labour and child abuse,
this can get you in a lot of trouble.
This isn't over. It seems to me the best thing
is that this boy goes home.
Okay, inspector.
What's this, you can't leave me hanging
on a Saturday night with no staff.
If it's alright, he can come home with me.
I can bring him to his mother tomorrow.
Get your hat and go.
A boy your age should be long in bed by now
And you,
soon you can expect a summoning from me for
an interview.
- Good evening. - Good evening.
I don't think she understands what this is all about.
Neither do I.
You can fight evil, but you can't fight stupidity.
Did you see Uncle Henry was shaking when you threatened him?
Yes, Uncle Henry knew he was in trouble.
Child labour and child abuse.
That's not nothing. Could he get the death penality for that?
Ciske, are you ever quiet?
Almost never. And he was lying through his teeth.
Look, that's where Dorus lives.
He's my best friend because he lent me this book.
- But now he's ill. - Look, there's still a light on.
Then I can give him back the book.
It's late, I think Dorus will be asleep.
Then I'll give it back to him when he returns to school.
- We could give it a chance. - I'll leave you here.
Thanks for informing me Mr Bruijs.
- Goodnight. - Goodnight.
It is very kind of you to visit Mr Bruijs.
I was walking by with Ciske, and wanted to see how Dorus was.
So, you're Ciske.
- How's Dorus? - He's worse,
he should never have gone on the school trip.
- It was totally irresponsible, and it's all your fault. - Enough.
Ciske.
Hey, Dorus.
I'm returning your book. It was fantastic,
when I got to the end, I wanted to read it again.
- Keep it. - Are you kidding?
- It's okay. - Really.
Hey Dorus, when you get better we can do things together again.
The neighbours have puppies.
I will ask my dad to help you up the stairs,
then you can see them.
OK.
Will you take good care of the book?
I will keep it spotless.
I think we should let Dorus rest.
We will visit again on Monday, after school.
- Get well soon. - Yes, sir.
I hope you burn in hell, if anything happens to Dorus.
He looked almost as white as the sheets, did you see that?
It was really great that he gave me his book.
I've never had my own book before.
What is it sir, are you crying?
No, I have something in my eye.
That little something is called Dorus, isn't it?
Come, let's go inside.
- My dear Suus. - Hey.
We have a visitor.
- Good evening, ma'am. - Uh, Ciske will be staying overnight.
You've very welcome here. Take a seat.
- Do you want a cup of hot cocoa? - Thank you very much, ma'am.
You can take off your shoes, sweetie... or not.
And for you?
Oh, I'd prefer a small glass of port.
- How do you feel honey? - I'm fine...
I felt the baby kick for the first time today.
Really? As long as he doesn't become a football player.
Ah, look, he's already asleep.
- I'm not surprised. - I'll get a blanket to cover him.
Ah, dear boy, if you were my son,
I'd chase all the evil witches from your way.
I'd support you when everyone's against you,
and protect you and keep you from pain.
We'd travel together through the city, and go exploring.
And when at night you call out after you've had a bad dream,
I'd come and sit with you and watch over you.
And leave a light for you burning in the night.
A star in the sky, a candle in your window...
Who calls your name?
The one who awaits you.
What a cutie isn't he,
you can get a little practice already...
How will it be, later when our child is here?
The whole house is filled with a new sound...
A boy or a girl..? Ah, what the heck.
But it's sure to learn the pranks of little Cis.
And he may be what he wants, an artist or a lawyer!
I'll affectionately teach her the difference between good and evil...
It comes quickly, my dear, this is all waiting for you...
There will be a light burning for you
in the night.
There's no option.
What you have now you could lose tomorrow.
There's no option.
I would like to talk to Mrs Vrijmoeth, if that's possible.
She is still sleeping, can I help you or give a message to her.
Dorus passed away last night.
The poor boy, his parents must be so sad.
It is terrible.
I will stop by again in the afternoon.
See you soon, boy.
- I'll walk you to the door. - That's not necessary. I know the way.
You should be glad...
Where did you get that knife?
It was a gift from father.
Be glad your mother is still sleeping, she was in a foul mood last night.
Dorus is dead.
Dorus is dead, it's not fair!
Can't I get a decent moment of rest on a Sunday morning?
Dorus died last night.
That weakling was gonna die anway, who cares.
Bitch.
You
made a fool of me last night.
So, little traitor.
Are you proud of yourself?
Throw him into the coal shed, get him out of my face now!
Why do you always treat him so bad?
I'll throw him in the coal shed.
With pleasure.
Keep you filthy hands off me.
You didn't think I was scared of you, did you!
- No... - Yes, scream all you like.
Scream you little rat.
Go sit there and think about what a
nightmare you are for your mother... and for me...
I get all the crap!
They can drop dead for all I care!
I don't want to learn to be good;
I'll end up in the gutter anyway.
Other children don't play with me,
call me 'Rat', as they run after me.
The only one who cares about me,
and he's never there, is my dad.
My mother can't control my rage,
I never do anything good for her.
I don't even ask her for love;
all she does is curse.
No wonder my dad was going to flee;
I couldn't come along, I was too small.
I had to manage by myself,
until he returned.
If only I had somebody to love me!
To put two soft arms around me.
Who would always protect me.
I feel so damned alone...
I'm still only a child.
Can never be left alone.
Maybe I can yet find happiness.
But how, that's the big question.
If only I had somebody to love me!
To put two soft arms around me.
Who would always protect me.
I feel so damned alone...
Who would always protect me.
I feel so damned alone...
Little prick, how'd you get there.
This will be the end of that cheeky mouth of yours.
- Don't touch me... - Come here you...
- No... - Little rat.
Stay down...
This will teach you!
Little rat!
- What the hell? - I'm doing what you should have done.
Leave him be! If anyone does that to his ass, it will be me!
All you do is scream! But that brat needs his ass whipping!
- He'll get that from me too! - Don't touch me! Don't touch me!
I should have suffocated you in your cot!
And this is going in the stove.
- I got that from Dorus! - Oh yeah?
This book is covered in germs from that filthy kid!
No! No, don't! No!
I should throw that rotton book into the street, and you with it!
That book is mine.
Nooooooooooooooooooo!
Give me back that one second!
Then she gets back all those years...
That one second,
for all those hours...
That one second
would last a lifetime.
Or is it just a bad dream,
that will somehow disappear
when the morning light appears...
Have you been there? Have you seen it?
Tell me! She's not dead?
Say she's not dead!
That one second,
for all those hours...
That one second
would last a lifetime.
Or is it just a bad dream
that will somehow disappear
when the morning light appears...
I'll take him to the office.
Perhaps you could bring along some clothes for him later?
No, I won't go!
- Aunt Jans! - Oh honey.
That one second,
for all those hours...
There's no option...
- That one second, - What you have now
- would last a lifetime. - you could lose tomorrow.
Or is it just a bad dream?
What to do with good advice and opinions?
Don't hesitate!
when the morning light appears...
- There's no option! - Mother?
What you have now you could lose tomorrow.
Mother!
There's no option!
[German] On your snow-white shoulder I leaned my head,
[German] Very nice
[German] and secretly I eavesdrop, for what your heart yearns.
Hey, cut out your whining.
Yeah, I'm sorry Taets. I can personally listen to you
for hours, but we must give the others some time to...
Next time, okay?
- Cis Vrijmoeth. - Let me sing.
Let me sing.
A soldier's life.
What is more beautiful than a soldier's life
A soldier's life No nothing,
No indeed, indeed!
Because every beggar gets a well-made uniform!
A well-made uniform! Made to measure,
my comrade! My comrade!
Our equipment here is the best in the Dutch army
You get a swab and a mop and then you're a minesweeper
So grab your broom and watch out and sing like me...
Ratatata...
What is more beautiful than a soldier's life
Yes. A soldier's life No nothing,
No indeed, indeed!
Because every beggar gets a well-made uniform!
A well-made uniform! Made to measure,
my comrade! Comrade!
Recently came to our colonel a woman wearing Jaeger
She said: I am a drag queen, how do I join the military?
The Colonel then said firmly: I'll make you happy soldier.
What is more beautiful than a soldier's life
Yes. A soldier's life No nothing,
No indeed, indeed!
Because every beggar gets a well-made uniform!
A well-made uniform! Made to measure,
my comrade! My comrade!
- Jeezus, what a voice you have. - That boy has a voice of gold.
Cough it up, my treasure.
Yes, in school he could also sing really well.
Singing was my favourite subject, at least you didn't teach that, huh?
Have you finally buried the hatchet?
Hey, at times like this you realize what really matters, sir.
Oh yeah, you can not always remain at fault.
- Here, have some of my beer. - No no, I'm alright.
Hey guys, am I in the mood for singing?
Come on...
More precious than diamonds,
silver, platinum or gold,
is the love of your mother,
you always honour her.
Yes she had many problems
Because poverty was often great.
And if you cried from hunger,
then she gave you her own bread.
Because a mother's heart beats for her kids
When you're sad, she offers you comfort
And her love will not stop
even if her heart stops beating.
Yes, her love will not stop...
What have I done?!
Where did I go wrong?
This cannot be undone...
But it throbs in my head;
it haunts me incessantly!
That day will remain with me always.
As these two hands
have killed a man!
Her blood will always stick to my fingers.
I have taken what belonged to another person.
I must live with this all my life.
There are mistakes you can never recover from...
Therefore I remain in this continous state;
What have I done?!
Where did I go wrong?
Is the battle lost?
Did I lack the patience?
It's always our fault if children go off the rails.
With these two hands
I pushed him back!
Back in a world where he could no longer be heard.
The decent society has shown its disgust!
They just need to put the judgment into words!
There are mistakes you can never recover from...
Therefore I remain in this continous state;
What have I done?!
Where did I go wrong?
There is no escape! He is done for!
What have I done?!
The court is now in session...
Ciske, stand up.
The public prosecutor has the floor.
Thank you very much, Judge.
This case has no precedent
He may still be a child however
this is defintely not child's play
For this son of a skipper
Proved to be a Jack the Ripper
His mother was expressly
dissected with a knife.
Then he fled very cowardly
And so deserves a heavy penalty
You are a highly respected scholar, Your Honour,
So naturally and rightly
I trust the law.
What the prosecutor has told you is misleading and untrue
What he alleges...
Ho ho! Protest! I object!
How can anyone with dry eyes
here in this courtroom argue
That a boy of only eight years
has killed in cold blood.
- Your Honour, may I have... - Order! I now give the floor
to the witness to the murder.
How can I describe my treasure?
She never did evil
It was no exaggeration
She was an angel through and through.
Well my ex was more of a bitch
Than a loving mother
Everyone was always the victim of her vile spoutings.
That I married her
Was perhaps my biggest mistake
You are a highly respected scholar, Your Honour,
So naturally and rightly
- I trust the law. - Mr Muysken.
I would like to respond
to what Vrijmoeth has said.
If you had involved yourself
and supported your wife.
You're as responsible,
not a little but fully
You were months away from home
And left her to provide at home.
He's the cause of this whole thing,
he's the biggest scum bucket.
Say that to me again
and you'll be flat on your face
You'll never eat steak again
You filthy, dirty swine!
- Order! Order! - Listen here,
before this case collapses.
I demand order in this house
And now give the floor to Mr Bruijs.
I read in the file
that Ciske is a difficult child.
Indeed I must confess
At first it was a bit rough
I had to get used
to the tricks of the rascal.
Looking at how far he could go with me,
when I got to know him,
I very quickly saw our Cis
Is actually pretty smart.
Ciske is a good man
If he can control himself.
You are a highly respected scholar, Your Honour,
So naturally and rightly
I trust the law
The next witness, Officer.
I call on Mr Arnoldi, director of the secure facility
Where defendant has been examined
Look, no man is born with a gun in his hand
It's quite another thing to lead to murder...
But he has a past,
the normal standards don't apply.
And the knife which he used
he's carried for a week in his pocket.
Well you, Mr Maatsuyker
Surely that you can confirm.
I have always said
that he'll end up hanged like a rat.
And I have said many times
that with the rat there's always something
It's a hard fact to swallow
But his mother, you need to know,
was some kind of psychopath
who always hated him.
Give him a second chance
For he now has Aunt Jans
You are a highly respected scholar, Your Honour,
So naturally and rightly
I trust the law
These were all the witnesses, Your Honour.
Are there any more witnesses,
otherwise I'll bring this to a close.
And then I'll look into
the extent of the punishment.
It's up to you to consider
but I hope it will set an example.
I would argue very strongly
for a reform school.
No, he's not a bad child.
It's always the same song.
Ciske, O Ciske
- With Ciske it's always something, - I say
Ciske, O Ciske
It's always something. It's always something.
It's always, always, always always something
- With Ciske the Rat - It's always something with Ciske the Rat
Honourable Judge, please forgive my interuption.
I am not legally qualified, I'm just a simple washerwoman.
But the world is not fair.
One is born with a golden spoon in his mouth
and the other has to fight for its existence.
Ciske is not a bad boy, he's just unlucky
with such a mother.
The poor boy may not have been perfect,
but he never even had a warm place to sleep.
Someone who loved him, or who sang him to sleep...
Told him he was cared for.
I hope you can give him another chance at a bit of luck.
Thank you.
I searched their eyes,
but they looked through me.
The silence that hung was deafening.
I felt around me only blackness.
And in that darkness, I was so damned alone!
They all seemed afraid:
had their shutters closed.
But for a loving caress,
I'd have done anything.
I searched their eyes and I thought to myself:
Who'll leave a light for me burning in the night?
A star in the sky, a candle in your window...
Who calls out your name?
The one that waits for you.
A star in the sky, a candle in your window...
Who calls out your name?
Francis Aloysius Gerardus Vrijmoeth
I sentence you to six months in the reform school,
the first month in total isolation,
less the three months already served in the secure facility.
So in total you'll serve three more months
in the reform school. Do you understand?
And then may I go live with my father and Aunt Jans?
Hmm, first we'll see how you behave.
Mr Arnoldi will bring you to the reform school tomorrow.
Hey man, chin up.
Nine! Nine!
Nine strikes the clock!
Nine! Nine!
The chickens go home to roost!
Nine!
White sheep, black sheep
- Nine! - Did you sleep well
- Nine, nine! - Seize the morning, my dear
- For the new day begins - Girls, for now it's
time to do other things
No one sees me now.
Girls, for now it's...
Betje!
Is it not inhumane to keep such a little one in solitary for a month?
Being stuck in a stuffy room won't do him any good.
It would be better if they let him get some colour in his cheeks.
- Quite right. - I'm going to write every day,
- and so are you. - We both will.
Hey, they must be cheerful letters and then I'll take them to the
main post office so I can be sure they'll get there the next day.
- Have you repaired my tyre? - I'll do it tomorrow.
No, today. I need that bike to take the letters.
It'll be alright, don't worry.
The ironing board still wobbles.
Since last week, what can you do about it?
It's a matter of two screws. Easily fixed.
Oh man, do it at once.
Don't deny it, but we're just like a married couple.
Well, by the time the marriage happens, I'll have false teeth.
- Oh, you wanted to get married? - Is that such a strange idea?
We're doing just fine, there's plenty of time for marriage.
Oh man, you should hear yourself...
'Why do today what I can do tomorrow'
or 'there's plenty of time'.
Pegs.
Watch out, maybe there
will be no tomorrow after today!
If you leave your milking until tomorrow,
it goes sour and rancid!
So if you want to snare me, you'd better marry me!
Don't stand back! Grab your chance!
Roll up your sleeves! And get stuck in!
Tomorrow is too late and yesterday too early.
Do it today!
Today's the day! Don't put it off!
You don't have to get married in white,
with a high mass in the church.
No, just throw a party
and then everything will follow.
None of that soft or gooey stuff,
that's found in novels.
'Red roses and violets' so that I may be swept away!
Don't stand back! Grab your chance!
Roll up your sleeves! And get stuck in!
Tomorrow is too late and yesterday too early.
Do it today!
Today's the day! Don't put it off!
Or are you afraid I will control your life?
That I'll tell you: You can't go to the pub!
My dear boy, how often should I repeat it:
as I now know, it's enough that you love me,
I was satisified with my life so far.
But it's more fun with two...
- ...Or not? - Oh no,
- I won't deny it. - And when Ciske returns home?
Well, then he'll have, er, a mother.
The social services would like that, I know that much...
It has its advantages.
Right?
We can talk about it soon.
Soon?
Oh, do we have to make a decision?
- Why not? - Oh, why not? You know why not?
Because it falls to me. That's why.
Well, then we won't get married.
- No... We... do we get married... - Don't you want to?
I want to. We're getting married and we get the licence today.
Well, wife-to-be, get your coat... We're going to town.
- But first I have things to do here... - It won't take long.
- It will only take five minutes. - But... - Hey, no buts,
listen to that voice in your head and that little voice in your heart.
How do you know what those voices say?
Because I can hear then, at least when you're quiet. Let's go.
Oh...
Get your hands dirty! And get stuck in!
Tomorrow is too late and yesterday too early.
Do it today!
- Today's the day! - Don't put it off!
These cards have been driving me crazy all day.
Say, if you can't stand losing...
Have I already shown you the snaps that Suus sent me?
Here is our 15th wedding anniversary.
- Who is that? - Oh, this is Mina, my oldest.
- Pretty girl. - So Suus is finding out.
You're starting to miss them, especially now at Christmas.
- Yes, it's the first time I'm not there. - And the last time.
Take it from me.
I don't think Hitler is as bad as they say.
Tabé, I'm going outside.
I just hope he's right.
So that we can get on with our lives in 1940.
The mobilization had done one good thing for me:
I've met you again. Not that I have a dislike for others,
but there's always something between me and them.
- Because of what happened then? - Yes
I uh... have wanted to say something for a long time.
That I am damn grateful. Without you... yes.
I would have gone to pieces.
Aunt Jans and you
are the only ones I felt at ease with. And sometimes Betje.
Yes, you will surely miss her over these coming days, I think.
It's been three years since I last spent Christmas with her.
This time last year I was in Cape Town.
The poor lamb. What have I to offer her?
Maybe you should think about a job on land.
If I only knew what I wanted.
When I was in Cape Town, I cried when I heard 'Silent Night'.
But I'd only been back in Amsterdam for a week, when I wanted to scarper again.
Have you and Betje talked about this?
Not really. When I look at these photographs,
such a happy family.
That's something I can never give Betje.
Ah, now you're only looking at the dark side of things.
Guilt devours you.
I've had a break-up letter in my pocket for two weeks.
Man, you're crazy! There isn't a better girl.
That's why. Better to have two months of sorrow than a lifetime.
- Do you have that letter with you? - Yes. - Give it to me.
I don't want you to send it when you're in a gloomy mood.
I don't want to spoil her holiday, but then...
- Then I will send it. - Think very carefully first.
There are two fighting, Sergeant.
Yes, I'm coming.
These days make us all sentimental.
I would have been better had I not shown you those pictures.
- It's not your fault. - We'll talk about it later.
I would prefer to be with you know
than stuck in this school,
to escape with just the two
of us and spend our time
wandering through the rice fields
in a tropical country far away
and then dream under the moonlight
with your hand in my hand.
How can I show you how much I love you?
And that I should let you go just because I love you?
I hope that you can understand. Although it may take time.
Darling, darling Betje,
I'm slowly losing touch.
Marks on the wall More each time
Marks on the wall More each day
Each mark is one day
So each line marks the time
you have left until you can leave
this place again.
The days starts with the strike of five with lots of bickering and strife
You are nothing here at all!
And you can never do anything right
And this hotel is also called
the horrific childhood from hell
Hey guys, have you already heard
That he got his mother killed
Murderer, murderer, murderer, murderer, murderer...
No, no, no! He absolutely cannot have visitors.
But we have something important to tell him, something that will cheer him up.
His first month is in total isolation.
- You heard the sentence. - I have clothes for him.
All the children here wear the same school uniform.
- To clarify that all are equal. - And these letters?
You can give them to me, I will give them to him... when the time is right.
Father.
Would you tell Ciske Vrijmoeth that
Aunt Jans and his father miss him...
and love him?
I've seen this so many times before. But somehow you never get used to it.
Soft measures make poor teachers.
You know what I think about that.
Shall I look after the letters for Ciske?
Please.
Ciske, may I sit with you and talk?
I have nothing to say.
You're angry, huh? You think it's a dirty trick
that you've had to sit here on your own for a whole week.
I understand very well. It's not easy.
Your namesake, St. Francis of Assisi,
also chose solitude.
He stayed in a hut with only the animals for company.
And do you know what happened?
He learned to talk with the animals.
He cackled with chickens,
whispered with wild horses,
and he knocked on the tree with the stick insect.
Who taught him how to chat with animals?
He received this gift from God.
We don't believe in God at home.
My father says, believers are worthless.
- Do you believe in God? - Yes, I have to, it's my job.
Have you ever seen him then?
That's something for another time.
I've got something for you.
A small statue of Mary.
Dammit, weren't there any smaller ones for sale?
It's a pocket Madonna, made of tin,
for people who are traveling.
She has a sweet face. She smiles like Betje.
Who is Betje?
A girl in my class. She looks just like Betje.
Put her by your bed. Then she'll be the first thing you see when you wake up.
Betje next to my bed.
- Goodye Ciske. - Goodbye, Mr Pope.
Today is the end of your month long solitary confinement.
Go to the workroom and as evidence of your good behaviour,
you'll get from our regional director Mr Blokzijl your first armband.
Mr Blokzijl, this is Francis Vrijmoeth.
Francis Vrijmoeth... you're the boy who killed his mother.
It is inexcusable, what you did.
Purgatory will never get hot enough to burn away that sin.
Well, lost your tongue?
- Don't be so insolent. - Ciske, remember the rules.
A pupil who does not know the rules, doesn't get an armband.
- That's mean! - Hands!
What you lack boy, is discipline.
Got it?
Hands!
Damn it!
Yes, sir.
- ... yes sir - I can't hear you.
Hands!
Yes, sir!
Very good.
The cane on your fingers is very painful, but
it is far more painful for me to have to do it.
- Got it? - Yes, sir.
Arnoldi, keep an extra eye on this boy. He seems to me to be obstinate.
You will have to work hard to earn your bands.
You know: only when you have three armbands,
then we can think about you going home.
- Got it? - Yes, sir.
Now get quickly to the work room.
Marks on the wall
More each time
Marks on the wall
More each day
Each mark is one day
So each line marks the time
you have left until you can leave
this place again.
It's a party here every day and we get to enjoy
an enourmous pot of beans
that you have to eat.
You even get beans for breakfast
and then you get the shits.
Be very careful that you do not splash.
Hooray, it's great fun here!
- Look who's here for you. - Mr Muysken?
Yes, come here. Not shy are you, that's unlike you.
- Good morning. - Good morning, sir.
- Do you like the new life here? - Yes, sir.
- Oh, uh, how are you? - Well, sir.
He is a model pupil, Mr Muysken.
He has his second armband for good behaviour already.
So I see.
Ciske, I have a surprise for you.
Today we're going to Amsterdam, your father and Aunt Jans are getting married.
- Or don't you want to go? - Yes, sir.
Well, change into your normal clothes
as I don't want to sit next to you on the train in your monkey suit.
Go quickly and change your clothes, and wait for us by the door.
Thank you, Father.
The rat I knew is all but gone.
Yes sir, no sir,
thank you Father.
I'm still quite worried.
Between you and me, at night I hear him talking in his sleep.
He's drenched in sweat.
No rope could hold back what he calls out.
- At night it comes out. - Yes, but by day he is great.
Self control is his second nature.
Well, we must hurry, De Goey,
as our train leaves in half an hour.
Well, I hope that I can hold it togeher.
- What? - Yes,
I always get deeply emotional at weddings.
Oh. And I hope they have a lot to drink.
- Can you drink during work hours? - Not really.
Remember: God sees and hears everything.
Yes, especially from gossips.
And the barrel organ goes: sing-singily-singel-die-dee!
And whoever you are, you sing all along.
The windows and hearts are opened!
And everyone comes running,
Then we stop, and break into song:
it's party time, it's party time, it's party time,
in the Jordaan!
We're always up for a shindig!
That is in our nature,
The girls in their short skirts,
dance their socks off.
Life takes awhile
so leave all your troubles
and worries till tomorrow,
and forget it all for now!
And the barrel organ goes: sing-singily-singel-die-dee!
And whoever you are, you sing all along.
The windows and hearts are opened!
And everyone comes running,
Then we stop, and break into song:
it's party time, it's party time, it's party time,
in the Jordaan!
Singily-singily-singel-die-dee!
Everyone dances and sings along!
Singily-singily-singel-die-dee!
The whole Jordaan is joining in!
And the barrel organ goes: sing-singily-singel-die-dee!
And whoever you are, you sing all along.
The windows and hearts are opened!
And everyone comes running,
Then we stop, and break into song:
it's party time, it's party time, it's party time,
in the Jordaan!
Hey, my dear friends, grab a glass,
because I want to toast,
a toast to the sweetest,
the most beautiful, the best woman I know.
We've had a rotten time recently, as you all know.
But now I have my very own Jans, and that helps me greatly.
So, uh...
that's why I love her so much.
- And me too. - Stinker?
Oh, Stinker!
- Look, look. - Oh, Ciske, what a joy you're here.
You are our greatest gift...
No, no, no. After you, Father, after you.
Skirts are always before the pants, eh?
Best wishes, and God's blessing.
- From my heart. - Ahchoo...
Oh, be careful. I'm breeding canaries.
- Their parents are prize-winners. - Ahchoo...
Careful. They're very valuable.
Look, look. His behaviour has been exemplary.
He has already earned two armbands.
- Not like his father. - Ho ho ho,
I think I am behaving very nicely, though.
Your father has found work, in a factory.
- Really? - Yes, how about that.
You are now the son of a carpenter.
And you must be Betje.
Cis has told me a lot about you.
That you're his best friend, and that you have a cat.
I don't have him anymore. He ran away.
Then you can put up notices.
But the cat can't read?
- So, ragamuffin. - Sir!
It's a lot more boring in the classroom without you. Are you well?
- Yes, sir. - Have you moved up a grade?
Yes, and I have an 8 for maths.
Really? Then let's have a quick test...
There are seven flies on a window and I strike two dead.
- How many are left? - Two, of course.
- Two? - Yes, the other five have pissed off.
Ladies and gentlemen, my dear friends, I would still like to finish my toast.
Ciske here, without whom the party would not be complete, so I would like to say:
- To life. - Hip hip hip, hooray!
Ciske, don't forget your gift.
Oh yes, I have something for you, from the Father.
Ah, dear boy, go ahead!
The priest has taught me a poem.
A poem from the priest.
Watch out, watch out, for my little darlings.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
may I have your attention for my son.
My father had dirty trousers,
and also a smelly quilt,
So he quickly went in search
of a laundry.
And when he had found it,
he saw Aunt Jans.
He immediately thought: this is a treasure,
- Maybe... - ... I have a ...
I know!
Maybe I have a chance.
He said: 'I am a guy,
'Without a penny.'
But she said, that doesn't matter,
he makes me go weak.
They went out together. And now she's the bride. Done.
Man, just like Lou Bandy, what an artist.
Give me a hug, boy. Oh, how beautiful.
Hey, we're having eels with greens tonight, your favourite.
- And can Betje join us for dinner? - May we, may we, may we?
Yes, of course you may. It's a party after all?
I'm sorry to break up the fun, but Ciske can not stay.
Oh, yes.
We must be back at the home before eight o'clock.
Can't you bend the rules?
Rules are rules, Vrijmoeth.
Say your goodbyes, then we go.
Can't we just stay with these people...
My heart would like to,
but we'd soon be found out by the management
due to his enthusiastic tales.
Let us be glad that he could be here.
We've bought him a book,
because he loves to read, you see...
And unfortunately I can not allow it.
But it will be the first gift that awaits you when you return home.
You can give that book to me.
This clothing is made for smuggling.
What is more beautiful than a soldier's life
A soldier's life
No nothing, No indeed, indeed!
Because every beggar gets a well-made uniform!
A well-made uniform! Made to measure,
my comrade! My comrade!
Hitler takes a look at his trousers,
looks at them with worry!
Because there is only one ball inside,
So he keeps it hidden!
Although, it spite of this loss,
he's still a big asshole!
What is more beautiful than a soldier's life
A soldier's life
No nothing, No indeed, indeed!
Because every beggar gets a well-made uniform!
Has anyone any brandy, boys? It will take away the pain.
Private Bram, get him to the hospital.
Ah, I've lost my fingers. I've just bought a new ring.
Hey, don't be so squeamish, Spijk.
Oh man, grow some balls. You're pathetic.
As soon as the war is over, you'll return to
your lazy life, such are the concerns of the aristocrats.
When I get a bullet in this terrible war, you'll see my blue
blood still runs red.
- The pain, it's unbearable. - Hold on, Spijk.
Hey guys, we'd better surrender.
We'll never beat the Germans.
Are you serious or is it a joke?
- Sounds serious to me. - Yes of course.
You're wasting your time arguing with a socialist.
What's wrong with the National Socialists?
The Socialists are just a catalogue of failures, that's what's wrong with it.
I would rather die fighting than belong to those barbarians.
Germany is also the country of Goethe and Heine. Guys, please!
Heinrich Heine was a dirty jew.
What does that have to do with it, man?
Sammie Meyer was your best friend at school.
- I knew even then I was better. - Now you obviously know even less.
- Do you know why I wanted to be a school teacher then? - Well?
Because I was hoping to teach the next generation a bit of common sense.
A teacher is a calling.
Yes, yes exactly, a vocation. Doing work that matters.
Now, the tears well in my eyes.
Because my class has produced a fascist.
Better a fascist than a murderer.
Who's a murderder?
What did he mean by murderer?
Instead of punishment, he gets only pity and understanding.
Did the victim get the opportunities he gets.
Bullshit! The first thing you did when you came here,
was to trumpet what had happened.
Had happened? Had happ...
He has brought this on himself.
But you haven't explained the circumstances.
Murder is murder!
The enemy strikes when you're not expecting.
The enemy attacks in the dead of night.
He invades your dreams to disrupt your sleep;
You feel humiliated, defiled and ridiculed!
You might want to flee, but it makes no sense:
no matter how hard you run, you can't escape!
It keeps pounding in my head!
It goes on and never stops!
It's a battle that I am losing.
Yes, goddamn it - I'm right,
because when I look in the mirror,
I see a guy standing there I don't recognize!
That little boy became a man,
who has nothing to look forward to,
and almost drowns in pity.
All friends say to me:
Come on, forget it!
What happened is over!
Well, forget it!
It's a war within me!
Every bit of love and happiness,
I brush it away or tear apart!
And who can get close enough to me to comfort me!
So dear Betje, find a man
who can give you everything you need;
really, you're better off without me!
A rudderless ship in a force eight storm,
searching for a light in the night.
All the mates on the shore
call to me with loud bluster:
Come on, forget it!
What happened is over!
Well, forget it!
It's a war within me!
Within me.
It's a war
within me!
Hey guys, guy, the Germans are long gone.
- I see no more of the dogs. - Get a grip, man!
You're in danger, get over here!
I'm not your dog.
Stew, bread and beans.
Add that to your meal with me.
Cis.
Ciske!
Betje?
Mrs Bruijs. Thank God I've found you.
Have you heard anything about the Grebbeberg?
I've heard such dreadful stories.
If I knew anything, I'd have told you already.
We've been trying to call for days, but we simply can't get through.
The people on the other side of the street got a message yesterday
that Johan had been killed.
Twenty years old.
Twenty years old...
Everything I ever feared -
all those anxious thoughts,
in my sleepless nights,
are now a reality.
War in the middle of Spring:
it's all ready to explode.
And you hear the birds sing...
With soldiers marching by!
And my biggest fear is now a fact:
I'll lose what I have - in this May
May... Summer is near,
but inside I feel so cold and lonely.
Once you told me: 'I'll never leave you alone!'
But you had to break your word.
And I checked...
No one knows your fears,
If you'll stay behind.
If you're a guy that needs to fight,
and does so for our rights;
Well, what do you do?
You try to stay in control.
And you say: 'I'll write.
Make the best of it.'
But what you really want to say remains unsaid!
A thousand fears haunt you deep inside!
Have I said often enough how much I love him..?!
How much I love him!
Me... Do you think it is just me?
If so then it is my loneliness to bear.
But my dear treasure is returning soon - I count the days.
Who knows if maybe later in May,
this will all be over,
and you'll return from hell...
- Then I'll tell you my fears. - Me... Do you think it is just me?
Me... Do you think it is just me?
- Suus, Bet. - Where's Cis?
- Gone. - Gone?
They have him in surgery.
When we arrived here an hour ago, they just him drove away.
- Did they tell you anything? - That it was bad, nothing more.
Did you ask whether he'll make it?
- Have you talked to the doctor? - Yes.
- What did he say? - He's a good guy.
He was honest about the situation, and it is not too good.
Cis was hit in the heart.
Every day he stays in a coma, the better his chances of recovery.
But there is still a chance?
The doctor there wouldn't make a judgement,
but he did come up with something interesting:
The bullet that hit Cis should have been fatal.
But he was lucky as he was wearing this tin figure on his chest,
which seems to have slowed down the bullet.
The Madonna statue he got from Father De Goey.
It could be a sign that it's not his time.
Cis...
Ciske...
It's me, Aunt Jans.
- And your dad is here. - It's all right.
Maybe he can hear us and it will do him good to know we're here.
Ciske, squeeze my hand if you can hear me.
Just open your eyes.
I think, perhaps, if we let him rest.
No, I'm staying with him.
It would be best.
Hey, if only I had a comb for his hair.
Hey Cis, don't abandon us, huh? Keep fighting.
You can't run out on us, my boy.
Infinitely far away and so close...
That is you.
That is us.
Ciske, stay with me...
I feel so lost...
Ciske?
I do not know if you can hear me...
My companion, my companion,
my sleepless nights...
My winner, my loser,
who has brought me everything...
Ciske, we're together!
I believe in you!
Ciske, you gave me
a sign from above...
So Ciske, you're already waiting.
Can I go home today?
- Yes, you have all your armbands. - I knew you could.
Finally get to go home, to Aunt Jans and father and my teacher.
- And of course Betje? - Oh yeah...
- Thank you for lending her to me. - Do you think she's pretty?
- Then keep it. - Thank you, Father.
I will keep her with me always.
There, by your heart.
And if you're sad or are lost,
it will always be there for you.
- Ciske? - Hey, Vrijmoeth.
You've been lying here for four weeks in these bandages.
Don't you want to get out?
Why should I?
Look! Look now.
Three bands.
I remember them,
three red bands.
- When the punishment was over. - For me.
Not a day goes by that I don't think about it again.
And anyone can say that she was a nasty bitch,
but...
but she was my mother.
But you saved Jan Verkerk's life. Before you were hit.
I didn't do it intentionally, it just happened.
Yes, and with your mother it just happened.
Yes.
That just happened to me,
- Damn. - And little Betje
has very nicely saved your life.
Betje,
dear, dear Betje.
Well, I've gotta run. You'll be fine.
- Thanks, scamp. - Good luck!
Let me see your world,
and I'll go with you.
A hundred times around the world
over land and over sea.
And now I will start giving
what you gave me all the time.
Darling, darling Betje.
I never want to lose you.
Well Cis, this is it.
Finally home,
finally to Amsterdam.
I've brought you some clean clothes
because you have to be handsome for your walk back to Amsterdam.
It was nice of you to look after me every day here at Pampus.
Yes, of course.
When Mr Bruijs told us that the Madonna statue had saved your life,
I knew you would be alright.
You were always waiting for me.
Yes, if you went to India I'd still have waited for you.
Dear, dear sweetheart.
Listen.
I'm going to look for a job ashore.
I want to be with you every day.
Together we'll listen to the Westertoren bells, go to the zoo on Saturday...
on Sunday get bread from the Jewish bakery.
That's sweet of you,
but do what you want to do.
No, Betje, no.
What do you want to do?
Well, you already know that:
I want a garden full of buttercups,
and a cat that always purrs,
- Three children to kiss... - And a hat with a ribbon?
And a ring of gold.
- I'll always love you. - Promise?
Promise.
And a dear, dear, darling
who loves you very much.
- There are some things that have changed. - What?
The Krauts are now in control.
They run through the city now like they own it.
Amsterdam will aways be Amsterdam. I'm sure.
Together we will see the liberation.
Let them all shake in their boots!
Cause people - they'll gossip anyway!
You are never alone, because you'll always remember
the place that gave you so much as a little kid:
Amsterdam!
I won't let 'today' be threatened by 'yesterday'
for to be alive today means leaving 'yesterday' behind!
And now I'm back in that city on the river IJ,
I walk the streets with you by my side!
Hey, Truus.
Hey, Vrijmoeth.
- Hey, Stinker. - Father.
As long as I can hear the bells of Westertoren,
I know: I belong to
Amsterdam, hey try catch me!
Amsterdam, yes you can!
From an early age I knew every street,
every nook and cranny of my Jordaan!
Amsterdam! Amsterdam! Hey try catch me...
Amsterdam, Amsterdam, yes you can!
I never get lost, because I come from here.
Yes, I was born in Amsterdam!
Amsterdam! Amsterdam!
Subtitles: Quantum 03/2011