Dream Factory (2019) Movie Script
France
Grandpa, adults aren't allowed.
You've got nothing to worry about.
What is the name
of the young lady?
Camille.
Camille.
And, uh...
Does she like you too?
- I don't know.
Oh, I would definitely
tell her that you like her.
The worst thing is not knowing
what the other is feeling.
It doesn't matter. Tomorrow
I'm going back to mom and dad.
And I will never see her again.
You will be here again
next summer vacation.
Then you'll see each other again.
- She will forget me by then.
You know, if you
really like each other...
a lot...
then nothing and
nobody can separate you.
But you have to fight for it.
You can never give up.
Otherwise she'll
really forget you.
Great. And what am I supposed to do now?
Ahh...
I once knew someone.
He had the same problem as you.
But he didn't give up.
Who? What did he do? - Ahh...
Your old grandpa
has to think about it.
That was ages ago.
So...
Where do we start?
DEFA FILM STUDIOS
Excuse me. Hi there. I'm looking for
Alexander Hellwerg. He works here.
Set construction. House 301.
Tell the guy he owes me.
I know he's taking the
freight entrance to avoid me!
Sorry, house 301?
- Straight ahead there.
(Man in command)
left, left, left, left...
Hey, watch where you're going!
Hello handsome
(Man) Attention! - (Loud Tuten)
(Man) quiet please, we're shooting!
Running. - And action!
Boo! - Boo!
Welcome to the movies.
I'm sorry
I couldn't pick you up.
You can see there's a lot going on
here. Come on, I'm in a hurry.
Nice to see you.
- Thank God I made it here.
You will like it here. We make
eight films at the same time.
Also the new one
with Beatrice More.
Never heard of her. - Oh man.
The soldiers work as extras.
Nice boys when they're sober.
Here we are.
Filming must make you thirsty.
- Come on, grab it!
This is Omega.
For the space film.
Looks totally real on screen.
Now it's time to work!
What?
- Youre about to start. Night shoot
I just got here.
Third house on the left.
Department for Extras.
You only have to stand around.
Just the thing for you.
Get on with it.
Ah!
Hey sweetie! We know
you want this.
Revered Ladies and
Respectable Gentlemen,
I present the thief of desire.
Mia Lorena!
Stop!
- Out! out!
I'm saying it yet again!
I don't like the light at all!
We need more light!
(Director) We're
doing another light test.
(French) Omar, I'm sorry.
The lighting is a disaster.
Ten minutes please, yes?
I need a double
for Omar. Fast!
You! Come over! You
are the light double, go.
Stand, here on the mark.
We don't have
forever. Come on. So.
Do you see that?
What is there? Hm?
Nothing!
But there should be
something. Namely a light!
So that the black pirate
is not standing completely in black!
So please!
- Well then.
So, let's go on.
OK. The two face each other
look deep into
each other's eyes.
He tenderly strokes a
strand of hair from her face.
A magical moment occurs
between them.
And then he kisses her.
In order for me to see that...
what do I need?
- light, damn it!
Light!
Hey, tell me!
What are you doing?
- (Assistant) What are you doing?
I thought... you
said the pirate...
The pirate, yes. Not you!
You only stand in the light.
(French) How can
you be so stupid?
Come on, away with you.
Away away! Get the idiot out of here!
The last thing I
need is an extra
who is too stupid to stand!
So, I need more
light from this side.
(Crowd) Oh!
Where is he? Where's that idiot?
I will kill him!
- (French) What's going on here?
Oh...
- How long is this stupid dance scene?
I've been waiting in this
uncomfortable dress for an hour!
(French) Sorry, Beatrice.
We have a little problem with
the scenery, as you can see.
Then we can take my close-ups.
We don't need a
backdrop for that.
Yes, you are absolutely right.
- Naturally.
Set up the close-ups.
The dance double can go.
Come on away with you.
Set up on close-up.
Extinguish the fire.
- (Assistant) put it out!
Go fetch the car. I
want to go to the hotel immediately.
Of course, madame.
(Fans, journalists)
Madame More!
(Beatrice) Milou,
wait by the car!
(Man) Madame More, please smile!
- (woman) Madame More!
Werner, come over here, come!
Did you kiss Beatrice
More on the mouth?
Yes, I have to get to know her.
I will invite her to dinner.
- Half the world wants that, Emil.
You'll never run into her again.
Alex, you don't understand.
We made intense eye
contact this morning.
And then she smiled at you.
- Not directly.
But she did this.
Madness. Love at first sight.
Keep laughing. You will see.
- Don't mess up.
Or you'll get kicked out.
Ok I get it. So, there
was a minor problem.
(Man) Mr. General Manager.
(Alex) Mr. General Manager...
A crazy small time actor has
destroyed the outside backdrop.
Get to work immediately!
Rebuild everything.
- Yes sir, Mr. Director General.
The outside backdrop destroyed?
(Alex) One day.
You've been here for
a day, Emil. One day.
Well...
We tried
Can't you get me a new job?
Please, Alex.
I have to stay here.
I'll do anything. No matter what.
But I have to see her again.
He can take care of the geese.
The Russians steal and eat them.
Already six missing.
Thank you. - Don't mention it.
Geese?
Please don't do anything
stupid. Take good care of them.
When I come back,
please, they better still be alive.
(Emil) Beatrice?
(French) Who is that again?
I don't want to be disturbed!
- (Emil) Madame...
Send him away!
- I'm going to check, madame.
Bonjour
Madame.
(Tries to speak French)
What can I do for you?
Hm?
- I wanted to apologize to you.
For um..., that is...
- Yes, that... the kiss.
Yeah right. - Mhm.
For half a kiss.
One half, your half of
the kiss, was missing.
Sorry for the half kiss.
And on behalf of the entire
film production industry
Welcome to the DEFA studios.
It is a great honor for us
to welcome such a
world class production.
(with accent) I've been here for two
months. And I'm leaving tomorrow.
I...
Madame, before you leave tomorrow...
- Quick question.
Is everything okay over there?
- Yes of course.
And what is that? - Uh, peanuts.
Peanuts. - I love peanuts.
Speaking of food, um...
I would like to invite you
to dinner before you leave.
Are these your geese?
My set is full of feathers.
What? These are not mine.
- Emil!
What are you doing with my geese
What's going on now?
I wanted to rest and now these
vultures are running around here.
You're supposed to send people away
not talk with them.
You're useless! - Shut up!
My goodness!
A little respect please.
Who do you think you are?
Hm?
So, Mr. Beck, Director Beck.
I'm sorry about the geese.
I neglected my duty of
supervision negligently.
Negligent neglect.
Tongue-twister.
And, Madame More...
Everything I told you
I meant...
every single word of it.
I'd rather die than
shoot here again!
Don't you dare
put a foot on this property again.
If I see your face again
then I'll make your life a hell.
Come on.
Ah...
Uh, sorry. - Yes?
Ah!
- Run, run. Quick, run!
Stand
still! Stop, damn it!
Out of the way!
Ah! - (Milou) sorry.
(Emil) Hm? - Hide yourself.
Where are they?
They must be out back.
Psst
What's your name?
Milou.
And you?
Emil.
Hi there. - Hi there.
There! Hey!
Hey! There they are. Freeze!
Stop! Stop, I said!
Oops.
Come on.
Shh!
Come on.
So...
There would be more if I had more time.
But you like peanuts.
- Have a seat.
So...
I should have cleared up
the misunderstanding earlier.
But I had to get revenge
for my ruined dance scene.
I'm sorry.
Oh...
I'm afraid this film
world is not for me.
Well, you wanted dinner with me.
Uh-huh.
Now you have one
Mmh, good vintage, right?
Bon Appetit. - Bon Appetit.
Hmm.
Hmm. - Good.
We should come here more often.
That was really delicious.
However, a toast was missing.
You should have said
something romantic.
Oh, yes, I...
I'm not the romantic type.
- No?
Rather hard and impenetrable.
And... a little superficial?
Why else would you want to eat with
a woman you know nothing about?
Because you're only interested in looks.
- You underestimate me.
Oh yes?
Yes, maybe I know you really well.
Maybe. But I doubt it.
All right.
This place is not for you
and you know that.
Yes. You are a
professional dancer.
And a damn good one at that.
You saw a musical as a child.
Since then you've been dreaming
of a career on the big stages.
But you're too short for that.
You have become
the shadow of Beatrice
and given up on your own dream.
You bend until you almost break.
That's why you cried
in the car that day.
The fact that you are incredibly
beautiful is insignificant to me.
I'm guessing the silence
means that I'm not far off.
I wonder if I should tell you
what I think about you
or if it will be too harsh.
Go ahead.
First, this place is not
for you either.
Second, and you know it too.
Third:
You don't know what you
want to do with your life.
No soldier wears his uniform
with less pride than you.
Why were you in the army
Couldn't think of anything better to do?
It is obvious that the
film world is not for you.
And yet you're here.
So the problem is...
You no longer wonder
where your place is in the world
but whether it exists at all.
You know, I wonder
what is worse?
An unfulfilled dream...
or to have no dream at all?
Well... that was
actually pretty harsh.
You didn't even include
a small compliment.
I know.
- No.
Unfortunately I have to
go now. I'm so sorry.
How was the kiss
I can't really judge that.
It was only a half...
Kiss.
That was acceptable.
Now we are even.
No we aren't. I still
owe you a toast.
Tomorrow we fly back to Paris.
Was I right?
When I was five I saw Melody
Of The Jungle for the first time.
The princess dances with elephants and I've been
dreaming of dancing with elephants ever since.
That was the moment.
Was I also right?
I'll tell you when you come
to Hall 7 tomorrow morning.
I want to show you something.
Are you coming?
Peut-tre.
Peut-tre.
(french) I'm sorry! - Attention.
I am late, I know.
It will never happen again.
Indeed it won't.
(You don't understand the men.)
You bluff - Ace of spades.
Huguenot, what does
"peut-tre" mean?
What are you doing here?
- A beer?
Do you know - Maybe.
What? Do you know or
not - Peut-tre means maybe.
Peut-tre means maybe.
Ok great. Could you peut-tre tell me
what you're doing here?
Please Brother, I need your help
even if it's the last thing you do.
All of you. It's a matter
of life and death!
Well, not quite,
but close. Are you in?
(Soldiers whisper in Russian.)
Ey! - Shh!
Shh!
This is more than a small favor.
(Soldiers whisper in Russian.)
Merci.
Bonjour. -Good Morning.
Where to?
To Babelsberg please.
- To the DEFA?
(Milou) Exactly. I know the place.
I've driven a lot of artists.
What... what's going on?
- I don't know.
Excuse me. - stay behind!
Turn around! - But I must get through...
Back, otherwise I'll shoot.
- You can't...
Freeze! Please.
We have orders to shoot.
(Taxi driver) Miss, come on!
Come back! Immediately!
"RIAS Berlin, a free
voice from the free world."
What's going on here?
- "The same thing everywhere.
Barbed wire and People's Police.
It is said that the flow of refugees
from east to west makes it necessary
to block off the
Soviet sector..."
I'll drive you back.
- "That was RIAS Berlin."
Peut-tre.
I want to leave before
a war breaks out!
No more flights today.
What is this crap. This
country makes me sick.
Mr. General Manager,
filming in all studios
has come to a standstill.
No employee from
the west has appeared
and many are missing from the east too.
There are movies in production.
What shall we do now?
- This will make us stronger.
I trust our party's decisions.
We'll take stock of the workforce.
We will have to do without the western
staff and hire new staff.
Good Morning.
- Morning. Thank you.
The car is ready. - Go ahead.
Excuse me. Can I
call Babelsberg again?
No chance. The
lines are still dead.
(Beatrice) Milou! We're going.
Immediately! I won't wait
a second longer for you
Flight 1406 to Paris.
Long night, huh?
Uh-huh.
The guy that worked here
doesn't come anymore.
Is this your office now?
Hm? - Is that your office now?
Uh-huh.
Be so kind and
tell me your name.
For the new name plate.
(Emil) Uh, Karl...
Bo... Borgmann.
We'll get it
(Russian, distorted) "Come on!
Have good medicine for lovesickness!
(Emil) You are free, go!
Go, run! Don't
be suppressed anymore!
Fly to freedom! Fly!"
"This is your captain speaking.
We are now leaving GDR airspace.
You are now safe.
We'll be in Paris in
about two hours.
where is everyone?
Where do you think, idiot?
No idea. It was all
for nothing anyway.
Milou didn't come.
Of course not. Nobody
can cross the border.
Which border?
- Are you kidding me?
Berlin is in a state of emergency.
The east-west border is closed.
Barricades, barbed
wire, soldiers.
They blocked the streets.
Nobody can get through.
Yes of course.
Yes of course. That's it.
That means she couldn't cross the border.
Her hotel is in West Berlin.
She couldn't get over here.
Don't you understand
what's going on here?
Yes of course, but
She didn't stand me up.
Do you understand?
She definitely wanted to come.
I knew something was up.
I knew it.
Naturally! She definitely
wanted to come. I knew it.
The line is down.
I have to go to her. - Emil!
You can no longer
go to the west.
And she left on her
plane long ago.
She is gone.
(Grandson) "Why didn't you
call her on your cell phone?"
Well... what me?
Grandpa, I'm not stupid.
I know you're talking about yourself.
(Grandpa) Oh yes...
Why didn't you send
her a WhatsApp?
Back then there wasn't anything like that.
That's too bad.
Did you go to Paris
Oh you know,
I tried everything
possible to see her again.
But they built a
wall ten feet high
between East and West Germany.
And I was suddenly
trapped in my own country.
Yes, it was completely hopeless.
Just like you and Camille.
Well that's a horrible story.
Not so quick, young
man. Let me finish the story.
Suddenly there was
an unexpected turn.
All she said was "peut-tre".
Maybe you are right
and I should get
her out of my head.
Wait a second.
Mr. General Manager, Mr. Prager.
- May I?
Can I help you?
Um...
This is the office of...
- Mr. Karl Boborkmann.
And you are?
Albrecht, Rosemarie
Albrecht. Secretary.
For Mr. Boborkmann. Yes.
But he's not there. I've
only been here three days.
So I don't even know
what he looks like.
He must be quite tall. - Yes?
Yes, roughly this size.
Blond, blue eyes. - Aha.
Pretty slim, you could say.
Quite young for his position.
He can be...
incredibly charming.
You're so funny
Are you Mr. Boborkmann?
I am. - Oh...
I am very sorry. I
did not know that.
I've only been here three days.
I thought you were
probably shooting somewhere
and had to be on site.
- Yes, I was.
It was absolutely necessary.
- Of course.
You will be happy to hear
that your office was
renovated in your absence.
Come with me.
I took the liberty
of ordering you a new table and chair.
Yes, and here is your mail.
These scripts are
eligible for production.
And there is your new id card.
Yes. Now I don't want
to bother you any longer.
If you need anything, I'm
just a push of a button away.
Could I maybe have a coffee?
Of course, just a moment.
Hello, Rosemarie? - "Uh-huh."
Could you please call Mr. Hellwerg to
my office from the scenery department.
It's urgent. Tell him to hurry.
"I will take care of it immediately."
So...
Come in.
Your brother has destroyed the scenery,
and you knew it.
What! Have you gone mad?
Alex, I have an idea
of how to see Milou again.
You can not be
serious. Are you...
Your coffee. - Thanks, Rosi.
Can I say Rosi?
- Of course, Mr. Boborkmann.
Not bad for a goose herder, huh?
What are you doing here?
Even as a Boborkmann
you can't cross the border.
I don't want that at all.
Milou will come to Babelsberg.
Aha. And how?
When Beatrice Moree
makes a film here again.
And Karl Boborkmann will
make a film that she cannot refuse.
You want to make a film?
- Yes.
If anyone finds out,
you'll end up in jail.
Only Beck and Prager have it in for me.
Nobody else knows who I am.
I'll just avoid them.
All we need to do is convince
the comrades to make the film.
After that, the thing
practically runs by itself.
Then Beck will have
to approve production...
What kind of film?
It doesn't matter. Just a
small one. Nothing big.
Emil. - Trust me.
It will be very small.
A short movie. - Emil...
You know that I always help you.
- Yes. Yes.
But that's the stupidest
idea I've ever heard of.
You know nothing about making movies
and you want to risk everything
to see a girl that may not care about you.
There is no Karl Boborkmann
and there never will be.
I know it sounds totally insane.
And I know that
this plan is crazy.
But I have to see her again.
I've seen a lot in 40
years of film business.
But that's really the
craziest, most idiotic...
and most beautiful
thing I've ever heard.
I will help you.
"Beatrice's
dream role is Cleopatra."
"Cleopatra. Yes,
Cleopatra is good. That's perfect."
What do we need?
- A film crew.
Aha. - You can't do it alone.
We need the best.
- People who will not run to Beck right away.
"The top people are good.
But we need trust,
heart and passion."
Are you with us?
Helmut has been a
camera assistant for 40 years.
His dream is to run
a camera himself."
Perfect.
But I'm color blind.
Which colors? - Red and green.
No problem.
The film takes place in the
desert. Everything is yellow anyway.
Welcome to the team, Helmut.
- Thank you.
(Emil) Who else?
- I have a few more people.
But dont tell them youre
only doing it for a girl.
Quiet! Quiet!
One at a time.
- We need at least 1500 extras.
A huge room with
a gigantic throne.
Props like gold treasures.
And beautiful costumes.
We need columns, sculptures,
Busts and of course...
Pyramids.
(Emil) Why are you helping me?
- I'm going to retire next year.
One last adventure.
But the most important thing is
that we keep it
absolutely secret.
The Cleopatra project
must not leave this room.
We are going to make a
big Cleopatra film soon.
Several sets, thousands of
extras, epic battles.
Its going to be the
biggest movie ever.
I even know the director
Boborkmann personally.
For real? - But... Sh...
Secret.
Comrade Beck, why are we finding this out
through the enemy's
sleazy newspaper?
Hm?
So be it.
We congratulate you
on this great success.
That's exactly what we need
now. A prestigious project of socialism.
But you should have informed us.
Yes, that, uh...
This was not all wrapped up yet.
I'm not sure how the West...
Show them that we are not idle.
And?
What is the current
state of things?
Looks good.
- What does that mean?
That doesn't sound good.
Are there any problems
with the young talent?
"According to the
information we have
a 24 year old Karl Boborkmann
is to direct this project.
He is considered an exceptional
young talent in the field.
Oh, yes, of course,
Comrade Boborkmann.
My young talent.
A first-class product of
local film education.
Mr. Prager, can you find Boborkmann
and bring him here quickly?
- Mhm.
Sorry to bother you. Someone
wants to speak to you.
Mr. Boborkm...
Oh...
Mr. Boborkmann.
Comrades, I present Mr. Boborkmann.
- Mmh!
Comrade director.
The young talent.
Mr. Boborkmann.
Don't worry, step closer.
Comrade Grothe.
You have the full support of the party.
Comrade Beck, say
something about your pupil.
Yes, what should I say?
Diligence, discipline and talent
distinguishes comrade Boborkmann.
But what I'm
particularly excited about
is his ability to surprise
me again and again.
Very good.
It's great that Beatrice
Moree is the main character.
Screenwriter...
and director.
Respect, comrade Boborkmann.
The top priority is the
smooth running of production.
Is this understood?
Yes.
Yes. Yeah it's just
extremely important
that my crew produce the film.
Naturally.
As long as the
cameraman is not blind.
We expect the script tomorrow.
Comrade Beck.
Comrade Boborkmann.
Well, then I'm going
to write a script.
Shit, Emil.
This time you really
threw us into some shit!
Big time.
Whatever. Move over. We
type in parallel. Let's go.
And write as often as you
can: "Close-up of Cleopatra".
That is all Beatrice
is looking for.
(Emil, enthusiastic)
With huge ships!
Caesar is angry, very
angry. That's good. That's good!
I see a ship, a sunrise.
And?
It's the worst
crap I've ever read.
"Cleopatra. From
Karl Bobork... man."
Boborkmann? - Mhm.
What a stupid name.
- Totally stupid.
No matter. Read on. - So...
"The sun rises
over the pyramids."
No, jump straight
to my first scene.
"Close-up of Cleopatra." - Mmh!
(Beck) Madame Beatrice.
Before you say
anything, let me...
The script is...
- "The best I've ever read.
I want the film and
accept your apologies.
We'll see you on the
set. (French) A tout a l'heure."
Of course, madame.
Unbelievable.
"Cleopatra" has been approved.
Watch the
production day and night.
Hellwerg will not survive the
first day of shooting as a director.
Call Janssen.
He takes over the shooting
as soon as Hellwerg is fired.
(Grandson) "I don't
believe a word."
You're just making this up.
Maybe yes,
maybe no.
But it's a cool story.
Yes? Is that so?
I don't want
it to just be a cool story.
Do you want to
hear the rest of it?
Did it work with Cleopatra?
(Grandpa) "Oh yes. more or less.
I had no idea what
I had started there.
You know, to make a
film like that, that's...
a very complicated matter.
All the preparation alone...
It took months before
the shoot finally started.
What was not clear
to me back then:
Is that a lot can change
during such a long time."
Madame morae,
on behalf of the general
manager and the whole studio
I warmly welcome you
and you, Monsieur Shalhou,
to DEFA studios.
Ah merci! - Your car is ready.
Where have we met?
I know you.
- No, I do not think so.
Ah...
(Emil) "I should
have forgotten her.
You were right.
This film idea
was totally stupid.
It is too late for
you to realize this now.
You have to make this film.
- It's no use anymore.
The thing was
doomed from the start.
Wake up little brother.
You go to the set
now and finish it.
Do you understand me?
I'm sorry.
No, you can't let the crew down.
You can't let me down!
Beck is just waiting
for you to fail.
And then you'll end up in prison.
Do you want that?
Come on.
That's your place
Should we take the
35's or 50's lens?
You decide. I blindly
trust you.
Blind.
Which one would you take?
Perfect. Me too.
Is this a good position,
sir... Boborkmann?
Excellent position.
Sound on!
- (Tonmann) sound is running.
(Emil) camera on!
(Helmut) Clapperboard
- (Assistant) 48/1 the first.
Clap!
Action!
Stop!
I've seen enough.
This dance scene makes no sense.
What?
- Cleopatra doesn't have to dance
like a prostitute to seduce Caesar.
This can be done from a
good close-up of Beatrice.
No, wait. - Am I right Beatrice?
(with accent) Of
course. He's right.
What are you doing?
The dress is tasteless.
- This is my dance! You...
No discussion.
The scene is
important. We can not...
What can we not do?
The...
I agree with him.
We don't need the scene.
Stay away from her.
End of shooting.
We'll continue shooting
with Beatrice tomorrow.
A wrap!
Hellwerg is totally overwhelmed.
Tomorrow it's definitely over.
The substitute director is ready.
Be sure. Tomorrow the
coronation scene will be shot.
You know what to do. - Yes.
There are rumors that
you sleep on the set.
I had to see that
with my own eyes.
You live in the film world because
you have no place in the real one.
Do you think I'm
stupid? I can see you.
Ow!
What are you doing?
- Oh dear, Mr. Boborkmann!
I thought you were someone else.
Have you seen my friend Emil?
I was sleeping. Waking me up is rude.
- You know what is rude? Not saying hello is also rude.
You threw a shoe at me.
- You ignored me.
Are you angry that I didn't
come back? Or what?
Oh... nonsense.
If I remember correctly, you said, "maybe".
So I didn't assume
you would come.
You wanted to show me something.
What was it?
I don't remember anymore. No idea.
A lot has happened since then.
Yes, it looks like
it. Much happened.
The last time I saw you, you were an
extra who was prohibited here.
Now you are director
Karl Boborkmann.
I was lucky and took my chance.
The artist name is part of it.
I am a little nervous.
I don't know if you noticed.
Careful. There is film in it.
We didn't shoot the scene today.
That's true.
I wanted to continue shooting...
- Dance scenes often get cut out.
I'm used to it.
Yes, but that would have
been something special.
At the end of the dance
it was going to rain rose petals.
I would have flipped
the lever and...
Would have been nice. - Yes.
It was my favorite part.
We can still film it.
Yes.
You just have to stand there.
Come on.
(with a French accent) Miss
Lambert, on your position.
Or Mrs.? I'm not sure.
Miss
For now
Your position please.
I didn't know that
you and Omar...
That you...
I'm happy for you. - Thank you.
Um... - I called here.
Wait.
- They didn't know anyone named Emil.
It's starting
I didn't think we'd ever see each other Emil...
- Quiet please. Sound on.
Sound runs. - Emil...
Camera on. The camera...
running.
Cleopatra, dance scene
the first. Action.
I think I should go.
Yes, I should sleep too.
Important day tomorrow.
I am happy for you.
For everything here.
Maybe there is a place
for you in the world.
Maybe it's here.
Peut-tre.
I wanted to come back then.
Is everything ready?
- Of course.
Are you going to zip up my dress?
- Yes, sure. It looks good on you.
(Beck) Boborkmann!
The comrades want to
see the first material tonight.
Good success!
Yes, I'll be waiting for
you in the theater tonight.
Madame Beatrice,
you look fantastic.
You are crowned Queen of
Egypt today. Are you ready?
Very good.
Get the extras.
This must be packed with Romans.
Helmut, my dear.
Start the mill.
We shoot.
Hey, Prague! Get
your notebook out.
Today we make film history.
Extras are ready.
Very good. Very good.
Get ready to shoot.
There is only one problem.
There was something to celebrate
yesterday. I didn't quite understand it.
Stop!
Film history...
(He orders
something in Russian.)
Guys what's up
All good. You can film.
Turn on the camera
and we'll do it.
We are shooting the coronation
scene. We discussed that!
The guy, glasses there, said
no film today.
Should celebrate.
Not a problem.
What should we crown?
Okay. Just stand
at attention, yes?
Stand as straight as a tree.
We have to stop.
- We can't.
If we stop we'll throw
everything away.
We shoot. We shoot!
Everybody in their positions!
This can not be happening.
(Emil) Sound on!
- (Tonmann) sound is running.
Camera on!
- (Helmut) camera is running.
Action!
That is ridiculous! How am
I supposed to act like this?
What are you doing there?
- This is an earthquake.
Keep shaking like
this. It's an earthquake.
Earthquake. Earthquake!
Earthquake! Earthquake.
Earthquake! Earthquake!
Here, earthquake!
You all have to shake.
Earthquake! Earthquake! Earthquake!
This is an earthquake!
Earthquake!
Earthquake!
Earthquake! Throw dirt!
Throw dirt! Earthquake!
Throw dirt! Throw dirt!
Come on! You heard
him! This is an earthquake!
Throw anything! Come on!
Ah no!
Throw dirt in the air!
Earthquake! Earthquake!
Get out of the way!
Earthquake! Earthquake!
OK. Yes.
Beatrice, an earthquake.
Everyone is shaking. Participate!
There was no earthquake
at the coronation of Cloptre.
It is a movie!
Shake. Come on!
Ah!
Omar, put your arm around
her. You have to protect her.
Ah... - Helmut! Helmut!
Helmut, close, close!
Closer.
Closer. Closer.
Hold me tight.
Yes.
(Beck) Good evening, comrades.
- General Director Beck.
We are excited to see what
Comrade Boborkmann has done so far.
Yes, me too.
Unfortunately, he arbitrarily moved
away from what was discussed.
We have a surprise.
May I introduce you to the
experienced director Janssen?
He will be there to advise us.
- Yes, very pleased.
Yes, Comrade Boborkmann
will be here soon.
After you. - Mr. Janssen.
Effects. Ridiculous.
What can I say?
Very good work. We
didn't expect anything less.
The earthquake! The
effects! You are amazing.
An excellent director.
You have a great future.
(Emil) Today I
understood something.
It doesn't matter if what is
shown on the screen is real.
It's about what you feel
when you're sitting in the theatre.
The feelings you have
when you watch the film
they are real."
And that's what is most important.
The comrades...
The comrades saw
the material today.
And they are...
Well, what can I say?
They are thrilled! - Ah!
Absolutely excited. It worked.
It worked!
Tomorrow we continue.
- (woman) Great.
Let's make this movie!
- Hooray! Yes!
When the night has come
And the land is dark
And the moon ls
the only light we'll see
No, I won't be afraid
Oh, I won't be afraid
Just as long as you
stand stand by me
So darlin ', darlin'
Stand by me
Oh, stand by me
Oh, got up
Stand by me Stand by me
If the sky that we look upon
Should tumble and fall
Or the mountains
Should crumble to the sea
I won't cry, I won't cry
No, I won't shed a tear
Just as long as you
stand stand by me
And darlin ',
darlin' Stand by me
Oh, stand by me
Oh, stood now
Stand by me
Stand by me"
Everyone look and smile!
Oh... earthquake! - Ah!
No.
No, I missed my car.
Oh no.
- Come on, I'm driving you.
You don't have a car.
With that thing?
Uh-huh. - No.
Uh-huh.
(Emil) I can also
do this, no hands.
So, exactly, horizontally.
Keep the balance.
Don't worry, I'm here. - Mhm.
Oh!
Better look ahead.
Straight.
- I want to show you something.
Don't be scared. Ready?
What's this? - No idea.
Shit, the fuel is gone.
Then...
we walk.
Come on.
It's always so dark here.
(laughs) It's night.
Of course it's dark.
No, generally.
Too little light,
too few people on the streets.
At home everything would
be full of colorful lamps
music everywhere,
lots of people.
How is it in Paris?
Tell me about it.
Oh, I love Paris. You
would like it as well.
My father always said,
"When God is bored,
then he opens the
windows and looks at Paris."
It's true. You're outside,
dancing, singing, just...
Free. - Yes, free.
That sounds wonderful.
Who knows? Maybe
one day I'll go there.
Come on!
Oh God. Oh...
Keep talking. How
are the people there?
Warm. Open somehow.
You... you laugh a lot.
You talk louder.
You look into people's eyes more.
You... touch more.
Security check. IDs please.
What is this about?
- You need to identify yourself.
Yes / Yes. Yes of course.
Here, you are.
Are you French? - Yes.
Stay here and behave yourselves.
What's this
about? We did nothing.
Quiet!
Why do you have documents
with different names?
ID card Emil Hellwerg
and an ID card
of the Babelsberg film studio in
the name of Karl Boborkmann.
Yes, that...
Answer me! - Yes, the Boborkmann...
Hands behind your back.
What? Come on!
How come? He didn't
do anything wrong.
(Policeman) you're under arrest now!
Should we take you as well?
- How could you?
Emil! Let him go!
- (Emil) Leave her alone!
No! No! Emil! Stop it!
He didn't do anything!
- Everything will be OK!
Emil!
It will be alright. - Emil...
What should I do?
Emil!
Milou...
Open up. Milou.
- I'm just changing my clothes.
I've been waiting for you.
Where have you been?
The photo took
longer. I'm so sorry.
Stop avoiding me! Do
you think I'm stupid?
Where have you been?
You were with him
Now you're hanging around
with him at night.
I knew it.
I saw it coming, but
I thought to myself:
"No, she's not going to fall for
a wannabe director."
It's not like that.
It's not like that.
How is it then?
I see.
Do you want to leave me now?
Give up your life
in France for a flirt?
Trade a safe, good life
for one with somebody
you don't even know?
In a country that is like a prison?
People are getting shot at the border!
I will not let you
throw your life away.
You are coming to Paris with me.
You got that?
In there!
May I ask for your attention.
As some may already know
director Boborkmann can
no longer continue his work on this film.
So now I would like to introduce
you to your new director
Comrade Janssen
He will wrap up the shoot
successfully.
Let him know what is happening
and get back to work
as soon as possible.
Yes, good day.
First of all, I must
speak to all of the managers.
I will be making some changes.
Yes, here for example
Christa, make-up artist.
You know that. - Naturally.
I have some comments
about Madame Mores make-up.
But I think that
can wait a while.
Hi there? Christa?
Are you listening to me
(Beck) Christa?
Mr. Janssen. - Helmut.
I'm sorry.
(Beck) Come back immediately!
Ay ay ay.
Think about what you're doing.
This will have consequences.
This will cost you your jobs.
Whoever goes now
will not come back.
Have you gone crazy
Hellwerg, damn it!
How are you going to
explain that to the comrades?
(Man) Is Hellwerg in there?
- Yes, he's being relocated.
(Man) open the door!
Comrade General
Director, is that the man?
Complete the film.
And don't screw it up.
Look who's here.
Hooray, hooray, hooray, hooray!
Alex.
Where's Milou?
This is a piece for our film.
Do not go.
Don't go back to Paris.
It's not that easy.
I have a life
With him?
- Yes
With him. In Paris.
Just because he lives in the right place.
- You don't know him at all.
You only guessed right
a couple of times with me.
Should I guess again?
- If you must.
You're just with him
for a bit of security.
Or?
- And what is the alternative?
Live like you? A life of
impulsive decisions?
You do whatever you want.
Like with this film.
A double life as a director with one foot
in prison. How is this supposed to work?
You try to convince yourself
with that ring on your finger
that life is more than love
and dreams.
You know as well as I do that
these are the things that really matter.
But you'd rather throw
your dream away for him.
For a little bit of security.
You have no idea.
You have had your
dream for a few weeks.
I've fought for mine.
I've worked for 15
years until my feet bled.
And you tell me that I
want a little security?
What do you want?
We have known each other for 6 weeks!
- No, it's been a year.
And since then I've
been waiting here for you.
You were waiting?
You had no idea that we would
see each other again.
It's just a coincidence
that I'm here.
And now should I give
up everything for you?
I'm so sorry.
You're right.
Alex, schedule
change for tomorrow.
I need everyone on it.
What are you talking about? Why?
How are we
supposed to get it all done?
We're shooting the dance scene
again tomorrow. Really big and impressive.
One moment. Stop.
There is not enough time.
Why? The choreography is the same.
The backdrop is there.
Everyone knows the scene.
We are just making it bigger.
This won't make her stay.
I know.
I made a film for a dancer.
I won't let her go
without her getting her dance.
Excuse me, Miss Lambert.
Change of schedule for tomorrow.
You won't dance in this scene.
If you keep her here,
you will destroy her life.
Stop!
You have nothing to offer
her in this walled-in country!
(Alex) Stop now!
(man)
See you tomorrow.
Ah!
Charles! What's this?
I guess there's been a change
of schedule today.
Yes / Yes. But what
about my scene?
It been cut.
- I did not agree to this.
With all due respect,
it's not up to you.
You are an excellent actress and it has
been an honor to work with you.
But I didn't write
this film for you.
(Milou) Thanks
for... the scene.
Emil...
The last few weeks have been
the most beautiful of my life.
But today after the shoot
Omar and Beatrice
fly back to Paris and...
I...
will be on that plane.
I can't stay here. I'm so sorry.
And...
you have to find a
replacement for me.
I can not dance. I can not.
I know...
It would be completely
insane to stay here.
I know that. But you must dance.
Milou, you have to
dance. Not for me, for...
You have to dance for yourself!
I'm only here to pick
up Beatrice's things.
Well here we are.
(Substitute Dancer) I still cannot believe
that I get to dance today.
Hopefully the dress fits. This is so beautiful.
- Yes.
The director is really cute.
- Don't even think about it.
Why not?
Married?
Worse.
Madly in love. - With whom?
(Christa) With the
French dancer.
Beatrice's Double?
She's engaged to Omar.
- Yes, that's the tragedy.
She was here last year.
And he fell in love.
The day the border was closed
they were supposed to meet here.
He spent the whole night
building a backdrop for her.
A scene from her favorite film.
He wanted to surprise her.
But she never came.
She was in a
hotel in West Berlin
and couldn't cross the border.
Oh no. - But it gets worse.
Boborkmann is not Boborkmann.
He is not a director at all.
He was an extra.
He had no way of
seeing her again.
No address, nothing at all.
He wanted to
run across the border.
But then he had a better idea.
He took over an office here in
the studio under a false name.
(Dancer) No!
(Christa) He fooled the administration into
thinking he was the production manager.
And now get this!
He and his brother wrote
the script and made this film
only to bring Beatrice
back to Babelsberg.
(Dancer) Because then
her double would come also.
(Christa) Exactly.
Can you imagine?
This whole film only exists
because an extra fell
in love with a dance double.
Yes.
Milou.
Um... please go
to your position.
(Emil) Sound on!
- Sound is running.
Camera on! - camera is running.
Music!
Let's go!
Go ahead!
Just let the camera run.
Bravo!
Bravo!
Bravo!
Bravo!
You danced wonderfully.
I shouldn't have stopped you.
(Border Control) Identification please.
Everything is good. Drive on.
Milou! Milou!
She showed you the finger again?
Yes.
Grandma has always
been very cheeky.
Hmm? Granny?
What is your
grandma's first name?
Well, grandma.
Your granny's...
first name is
Milou.
(Grandson) I need to talk to grandma!
- Wait wait.
You can do that later.
I think you have something
more important to do now, don't you?
Right.
Grandpa, adults aren't allowed.
You've got nothing to worry about.
What is the name
of the young lady?
Camille.
Camille.
And, uh...
Does she like you too?
- I don't know.
Oh, I would definitely
tell her that you like her.
The worst thing is not knowing
what the other is feeling.
It doesn't matter. Tomorrow
I'm going back to mom and dad.
And I will never see her again.
You will be here again
next summer vacation.
Then you'll see each other again.
- She will forget me by then.
You know, if you
really like each other...
a lot...
then nothing and
nobody can separate you.
But you have to fight for it.
You can never give up.
Otherwise she'll
really forget you.
Great. And what am I supposed to do now?
Ahh...
I once knew someone.
He had the same problem as you.
But he didn't give up.
Who? What did he do? - Ahh...
Your old grandpa
has to think about it.
That was ages ago.
So...
Where do we start?
DEFA FILM STUDIOS
Excuse me. Hi there. I'm looking for
Alexander Hellwerg. He works here.
Set construction. House 301.
Tell the guy he owes me.
I know he's taking the
freight entrance to avoid me!
Sorry, house 301?
- Straight ahead there.
(Man in command)
left, left, left, left...
Hey, watch where you're going!
Hello handsome
(Man) Attention! - (Loud Tuten)
(Man) quiet please, we're shooting!
Running. - And action!
Boo! - Boo!
Welcome to the movies.
I'm sorry
I couldn't pick you up.
You can see there's a lot going on
here. Come on, I'm in a hurry.
Nice to see you.
- Thank God I made it here.
You will like it here. We make
eight films at the same time.
Also the new one
with Beatrice More.
Never heard of her. - Oh man.
The soldiers work as extras.
Nice boys when they're sober.
Here we are.
Filming must make you thirsty.
- Come on, grab it!
This is Omega.
For the space film.
Looks totally real on screen.
Now it's time to work!
What?
- Youre about to start. Night shoot
I just got here.
Third house on the left.
Department for Extras.
You only have to stand around.
Just the thing for you.
Get on with it.
Ah!
Hey sweetie! We know
you want this.
Revered Ladies and
Respectable Gentlemen,
I present the thief of desire.
Mia Lorena!
Stop!
- Out! out!
I'm saying it yet again!
I don't like the light at all!
We need more light!
(Director) We're
doing another light test.
(French) Omar, I'm sorry.
The lighting is a disaster.
Ten minutes please, yes?
I need a double
for Omar. Fast!
You! Come over! You
are the light double, go.
Stand, here on the mark.
We don't have
forever. Come on. So.
Do you see that?
What is there? Hm?
Nothing!
But there should be
something. Namely a light!
So that the black pirate
is not standing completely in black!
So please!
- Well then.
So, let's go on.
OK. The two face each other
look deep into
each other's eyes.
He tenderly strokes a
strand of hair from her face.
A magical moment occurs
between them.
And then he kisses her.
In order for me to see that...
what do I need?
- light, damn it!
Light!
Hey, tell me!
What are you doing?
- (Assistant) What are you doing?
I thought... you
said the pirate...
The pirate, yes. Not you!
You only stand in the light.
(French) How can
you be so stupid?
Come on, away with you.
Away away! Get the idiot out of here!
The last thing I
need is an extra
who is too stupid to stand!
So, I need more
light from this side.
(Crowd) Oh!
Where is he? Where's that idiot?
I will kill him!
- (French) What's going on here?
Oh...
- How long is this stupid dance scene?
I've been waiting in this
uncomfortable dress for an hour!
(French) Sorry, Beatrice.
We have a little problem with
the scenery, as you can see.
Then we can take my close-ups.
We don't need a
backdrop for that.
Yes, you are absolutely right.
- Naturally.
Set up the close-ups.
The dance double can go.
Come on away with you.
Set up on close-up.
Extinguish the fire.
- (Assistant) put it out!
Go fetch the car. I
want to go to the hotel immediately.
Of course, madame.
(Fans, journalists)
Madame More!
(Beatrice) Milou,
wait by the car!
(Man) Madame More, please smile!
- (woman) Madame More!
Werner, come over here, come!
Did you kiss Beatrice
More on the mouth?
Yes, I have to get to know her.
I will invite her to dinner.
- Half the world wants that, Emil.
You'll never run into her again.
Alex, you don't understand.
We made intense eye
contact this morning.
And then she smiled at you.
- Not directly.
But she did this.
Madness. Love at first sight.
Keep laughing. You will see.
- Don't mess up.
Or you'll get kicked out.
Ok I get it. So, there
was a minor problem.
(Man) Mr. General Manager.
(Alex) Mr. General Manager...
A crazy small time actor has
destroyed the outside backdrop.
Get to work immediately!
Rebuild everything.
- Yes sir, Mr. Director General.
The outside backdrop destroyed?
(Alex) One day.
You've been here for
a day, Emil. One day.
Well...
We tried
Can't you get me a new job?
Please, Alex.
I have to stay here.
I'll do anything. No matter what.
But I have to see her again.
He can take care of the geese.
The Russians steal and eat them.
Already six missing.
Thank you. - Don't mention it.
Geese?
Please don't do anything
stupid. Take good care of them.
When I come back,
please, they better still be alive.
(Emil) Beatrice?
(French) Who is that again?
I don't want to be disturbed!
- (Emil) Madame...
Send him away!
- I'm going to check, madame.
Bonjour
Madame.
(Tries to speak French)
What can I do for you?
Hm?
- I wanted to apologize to you.
For um..., that is...
- Yes, that... the kiss.
Yeah right. - Mhm.
For half a kiss.
One half, your half of
the kiss, was missing.
Sorry for the half kiss.
And on behalf of the entire
film production industry
Welcome to the DEFA studios.
It is a great honor for us
to welcome such a
world class production.
(with accent) I've been here for two
months. And I'm leaving tomorrow.
I...
Madame, before you leave tomorrow...
- Quick question.
Is everything okay over there?
- Yes of course.
And what is that? - Uh, peanuts.
Peanuts. - I love peanuts.
Speaking of food, um...
I would like to invite you
to dinner before you leave.
Are these your geese?
My set is full of feathers.
What? These are not mine.
- Emil!
What are you doing with my geese
What's going on now?
I wanted to rest and now these
vultures are running around here.
You're supposed to send people away
not talk with them.
You're useless! - Shut up!
My goodness!
A little respect please.
Who do you think you are?
Hm?
So, Mr. Beck, Director Beck.
I'm sorry about the geese.
I neglected my duty of
supervision negligently.
Negligent neglect.
Tongue-twister.
And, Madame More...
Everything I told you
I meant...
every single word of it.
I'd rather die than
shoot here again!
Don't you dare
put a foot on this property again.
If I see your face again
then I'll make your life a hell.
Come on.
Ah...
Uh, sorry. - Yes?
Ah!
- Run, run. Quick, run!
Stand
still! Stop, damn it!
Out of the way!
Ah! - (Milou) sorry.
(Emil) Hm? - Hide yourself.
Where are they?
They must be out back.
Psst
What's your name?
Milou.
And you?
Emil.
Hi there. - Hi there.
There! Hey!
Hey! There they are. Freeze!
Stop! Stop, I said!
Oops.
Come on.
Shh!
Come on.
So...
There would be more if I had more time.
But you like peanuts.
- Have a seat.
So...
I should have cleared up
the misunderstanding earlier.
But I had to get revenge
for my ruined dance scene.
I'm sorry.
Oh...
I'm afraid this film
world is not for me.
Well, you wanted dinner with me.
Uh-huh.
Now you have one
Mmh, good vintage, right?
Bon Appetit. - Bon Appetit.
Hmm.
Hmm. - Good.
We should come here more often.
That was really delicious.
However, a toast was missing.
You should have said
something romantic.
Oh, yes, I...
I'm not the romantic type.
- No?
Rather hard and impenetrable.
And... a little superficial?
Why else would you want to eat with
a woman you know nothing about?
Because you're only interested in looks.
- You underestimate me.
Oh yes?
Yes, maybe I know you really well.
Maybe. But I doubt it.
All right.
This place is not for you
and you know that.
Yes. You are a
professional dancer.
And a damn good one at that.
You saw a musical as a child.
Since then you've been dreaming
of a career on the big stages.
But you're too short for that.
You have become
the shadow of Beatrice
and given up on your own dream.
You bend until you almost break.
That's why you cried
in the car that day.
The fact that you are incredibly
beautiful is insignificant to me.
I'm guessing the silence
means that I'm not far off.
I wonder if I should tell you
what I think about you
or if it will be too harsh.
Go ahead.
First, this place is not
for you either.
Second, and you know it too.
Third:
You don't know what you
want to do with your life.
No soldier wears his uniform
with less pride than you.
Why were you in the army
Couldn't think of anything better to do?
It is obvious that the
film world is not for you.
And yet you're here.
So the problem is...
You no longer wonder
where your place is in the world
but whether it exists at all.
You know, I wonder
what is worse?
An unfulfilled dream...
or to have no dream at all?
Well... that was
actually pretty harsh.
You didn't even include
a small compliment.
I know.
- No.
Unfortunately I have to
go now. I'm so sorry.
How was the kiss
I can't really judge that.
It was only a half...
Kiss.
That was acceptable.
Now we are even.
No we aren't. I still
owe you a toast.
Tomorrow we fly back to Paris.
Was I right?
When I was five I saw Melody
Of The Jungle for the first time.
The princess dances with elephants and I've been
dreaming of dancing with elephants ever since.
That was the moment.
Was I also right?
I'll tell you when you come
to Hall 7 tomorrow morning.
I want to show you something.
Are you coming?
Peut-tre.
Peut-tre.
(french) I'm sorry! - Attention.
I am late, I know.
It will never happen again.
Indeed it won't.
(You don't understand the men.)
You bluff - Ace of spades.
Huguenot, what does
"peut-tre" mean?
What are you doing here?
- A beer?
Do you know - Maybe.
What? Do you know or
not - Peut-tre means maybe.
Peut-tre means maybe.
Ok great. Could you peut-tre tell me
what you're doing here?
Please Brother, I need your help
even if it's the last thing you do.
All of you. It's a matter
of life and death!
Well, not quite,
but close. Are you in?
(Soldiers whisper in Russian.)
Ey! - Shh!
Shh!
This is more than a small favor.
(Soldiers whisper in Russian.)
Merci.
Bonjour. -Good Morning.
Where to?
To Babelsberg please.
- To the DEFA?
(Milou) Exactly. I know the place.
I've driven a lot of artists.
What... what's going on?
- I don't know.
Excuse me. - stay behind!
Turn around! - But I must get through...
Back, otherwise I'll shoot.
- You can't...
Freeze! Please.
We have orders to shoot.
(Taxi driver) Miss, come on!
Come back! Immediately!
"RIAS Berlin, a free
voice from the free world."
What's going on here?
- "The same thing everywhere.
Barbed wire and People's Police.
It is said that the flow of refugees
from east to west makes it necessary
to block off the
Soviet sector..."
I'll drive you back.
- "That was RIAS Berlin."
Peut-tre.
I want to leave before
a war breaks out!
No more flights today.
What is this crap. This
country makes me sick.
Mr. General Manager,
filming in all studios
has come to a standstill.
No employee from
the west has appeared
and many are missing from the east too.
There are movies in production.
What shall we do now?
- This will make us stronger.
I trust our party's decisions.
We'll take stock of the workforce.
We will have to do without the western
staff and hire new staff.
Good Morning.
- Morning. Thank you.
The car is ready. - Go ahead.
Excuse me. Can I
call Babelsberg again?
No chance. The
lines are still dead.
(Beatrice) Milou! We're going.
Immediately! I won't wait
a second longer for you
Flight 1406 to Paris.
Long night, huh?
Uh-huh.
The guy that worked here
doesn't come anymore.
Is this your office now?
Hm? - Is that your office now?
Uh-huh.
Be so kind and
tell me your name.
For the new name plate.
(Emil) Uh, Karl...
Bo... Borgmann.
We'll get it
(Russian, distorted) "Come on!
Have good medicine for lovesickness!
(Emil) You are free, go!
Go, run! Don't
be suppressed anymore!
Fly to freedom! Fly!"
"This is your captain speaking.
We are now leaving GDR airspace.
You are now safe.
We'll be in Paris in
about two hours.
where is everyone?
Where do you think, idiot?
No idea. It was all
for nothing anyway.
Milou didn't come.
Of course not. Nobody
can cross the border.
Which border?
- Are you kidding me?
Berlin is in a state of emergency.
The east-west border is closed.
Barricades, barbed
wire, soldiers.
They blocked the streets.
Nobody can get through.
Yes of course.
Yes of course. That's it.
That means she couldn't cross the border.
Her hotel is in West Berlin.
She couldn't get over here.
Don't you understand
what's going on here?
Yes of course, but
She didn't stand me up.
Do you understand?
She definitely wanted to come.
I knew something was up.
I knew it.
Naturally! She definitely
wanted to come. I knew it.
The line is down.
I have to go to her. - Emil!
You can no longer
go to the west.
And she left on her
plane long ago.
She is gone.
(Grandson) "Why didn't you
call her on your cell phone?"
Well... what me?
Grandpa, I'm not stupid.
I know you're talking about yourself.
(Grandpa) Oh yes...
Why didn't you send
her a WhatsApp?
Back then there wasn't anything like that.
That's too bad.
Did you go to Paris
Oh you know,
I tried everything
possible to see her again.
But they built a
wall ten feet high
between East and West Germany.
And I was suddenly
trapped in my own country.
Yes, it was completely hopeless.
Just like you and Camille.
Well that's a horrible story.
Not so quick, young
man. Let me finish the story.
Suddenly there was
an unexpected turn.
All she said was "peut-tre".
Maybe you are right
and I should get
her out of my head.
Wait a second.
Mr. General Manager, Mr. Prager.
- May I?
Can I help you?
Um...
This is the office of...
- Mr. Karl Boborkmann.
And you are?
Albrecht, Rosemarie
Albrecht. Secretary.
For Mr. Boborkmann. Yes.
But he's not there. I've
only been here three days.
So I don't even know
what he looks like.
He must be quite tall. - Yes?
Yes, roughly this size.
Blond, blue eyes. - Aha.
Pretty slim, you could say.
Quite young for his position.
He can be...
incredibly charming.
You're so funny
Are you Mr. Boborkmann?
I am. - Oh...
I am very sorry. I
did not know that.
I've only been here three days.
I thought you were
probably shooting somewhere
and had to be on site.
- Yes, I was.
It was absolutely necessary.
- Of course.
You will be happy to hear
that your office was
renovated in your absence.
Come with me.
I took the liberty
of ordering you a new table and chair.
Yes, and here is your mail.
These scripts are
eligible for production.
And there is your new id card.
Yes. Now I don't want
to bother you any longer.
If you need anything, I'm
just a push of a button away.
Could I maybe have a coffee?
Of course, just a moment.
Hello, Rosemarie? - "Uh-huh."
Could you please call Mr. Hellwerg to
my office from the scenery department.
It's urgent. Tell him to hurry.
"I will take care of it immediately."
So...
Come in.
Your brother has destroyed the scenery,
and you knew it.
What! Have you gone mad?
Alex, I have an idea
of how to see Milou again.
You can not be
serious. Are you...
Your coffee. - Thanks, Rosi.
Can I say Rosi?
- Of course, Mr. Boborkmann.
Not bad for a goose herder, huh?
What are you doing here?
Even as a Boborkmann
you can't cross the border.
I don't want that at all.
Milou will come to Babelsberg.
Aha. And how?
When Beatrice Moree
makes a film here again.
And Karl Boborkmann will
make a film that she cannot refuse.
You want to make a film?
- Yes.
If anyone finds out,
you'll end up in jail.
Only Beck and Prager have it in for me.
Nobody else knows who I am.
I'll just avoid them.
All we need to do is convince
the comrades to make the film.
After that, the thing
practically runs by itself.
Then Beck will have
to approve production...
What kind of film?
It doesn't matter. Just a
small one. Nothing big.
Emil. - Trust me.
It will be very small.
A short movie. - Emil...
You know that I always help you.
- Yes. Yes.
But that's the stupidest
idea I've ever heard of.
You know nothing about making movies
and you want to risk everything
to see a girl that may not care about you.
There is no Karl Boborkmann
and there never will be.
I know it sounds totally insane.
And I know that
this plan is crazy.
But I have to see her again.
I've seen a lot in 40
years of film business.
But that's really the
craziest, most idiotic...
and most beautiful
thing I've ever heard.
I will help you.
"Beatrice's
dream role is Cleopatra."
"Cleopatra. Yes,
Cleopatra is good. That's perfect."
What do we need?
- A film crew.
Aha. - You can't do it alone.
We need the best.
- People who will not run to Beck right away.
"The top people are good.
But we need trust,
heart and passion."
Are you with us?
Helmut has been a
camera assistant for 40 years.
His dream is to run
a camera himself."
Perfect.
But I'm color blind.
Which colors? - Red and green.
No problem.
The film takes place in the
desert. Everything is yellow anyway.
Welcome to the team, Helmut.
- Thank you.
(Emil) Who else?
- I have a few more people.
But dont tell them youre
only doing it for a girl.
Quiet! Quiet!
One at a time.
- We need at least 1500 extras.
A huge room with
a gigantic throne.
Props like gold treasures.
And beautiful costumes.
We need columns, sculptures,
Busts and of course...
Pyramids.
(Emil) Why are you helping me?
- I'm going to retire next year.
One last adventure.
But the most important thing is
that we keep it
absolutely secret.
The Cleopatra project
must not leave this room.
We are going to make a
big Cleopatra film soon.
Several sets, thousands of
extras, epic battles.
Its going to be the
biggest movie ever.
I even know the director
Boborkmann personally.
For real? - But... Sh...
Secret.
Comrade Beck, why are we finding this out
through the enemy's
sleazy newspaper?
Hm?
So be it.
We congratulate you
on this great success.
That's exactly what we need
now. A prestigious project of socialism.
But you should have informed us.
Yes, that, uh...
This was not all wrapped up yet.
I'm not sure how the West...
Show them that we are not idle.
And?
What is the current
state of things?
Looks good.
- What does that mean?
That doesn't sound good.
Are there any problems
with the young talent?
"According to the
information we have
a 24 year old Karl Boborkmann
is to direct this project.
He is considered an exceptional
young talent in the field.
Oh, yes, of course,
Comrade Boborkmann.
My young talent.
A first-class product of
local film education.
Mr. Prager, can you find Boborkmann
and bring him here quickly?
- Mhm.
Sorry to bother you. Someone
wants to speak to you.
Mr. Boborkm...
Oh...
Mr. Boborkmann.
Comrades, I present Mr. Boborkmann.
- Mmh!
Comrade director.
The young talent.
Mr. Boborkmann.
Don't worry, step closer.
Comrade Grothe.
You have the full support of the party.
Comrade Beck, say
something about your pupil.
Yes, what should I say?
Diligence, discipline and talent
distinguishes comrade Boborkmann.
But what I'm
particularly excited about
is his ability to surprise
me again and again.
Very good.
It's great that Beatrice
Moree is the main character.
Screenwriter...
and director.
Respect, comrade Boborkmann.
The top priority is the
smooth running of production.
Is this understood?
Yes.
Yes. Yeah it's just
extremely important
that my crew produce the film.
Naturally.
As long as the
cameraman is not blind.
We expect the script tomorrow.
Comrade Beck.
Comrade Boborkmann.
Well, then I'm going
to write a script.
Shit, Emil.
This time you really
threw us into some shit!
Big time.
Whatever. Move over. We
type in parallel. Let's go.
And write as often as you
can: "Close-up of Cleopatra".
That is all Beatrice
is looking for.
(Emil, enthusiastic)
With huge ships!
Caesar is angry, very
angry. That's good. That's good!
I see a ship, a sunrise.
And?
It's the worst
crap I've ever read.
"Cleopatra. From
Karl Bobork... man."
Boborkmann? - Mhm.
What a stupid name.
- Totally stupid.
No matter. Read on. - So...
"The sun rises
over the pyramids."
No, jump straight
to my first scene.
"Close-up of Cleopatra." - Mmh!
(Beck) Madame Beatrice.
Before you say
anything, let me...
The script is...
- "The best I've ever read.
I want the film and
accept your apologies.
We'll see you on the
set. (French) A tout a l'heure."
Of course, madame.
Unbelievable.
"Cleopatra" has been approved.
Watch the
production day and night.
Hellwerg will not survive the
first day of shooting as a director.
Call Janssen.
He takes over the shooting
as soon as Hellwerg is fired.
(Grandson) "I don't
believe a word."
You're just making this up.
Maybe yes,
maybe no.
But it's a cool story.
Yes? Is that so?
I don't want
it to just be a cool story.
Do you want to
hear the rest of it?
Did it work with Cleopatra?
(Grandpa) "Oh yes. more or less.
I had no idea what
I had started there.
You know, to make a
film like that, that's...
a very complicated matter.
All the preparation alone...
It took months before
the shoot finally started.
What was not clear
to me back then:
Is that a lot can change
during such a long time."
Madame morae,
on behalf of the general
manager and the whole studio
I warmly welcome you
and you, Monsieur Shalhou,
to DEFA studios.
Ah merci! - Your car is ready.
Where have we met?
I know you.
- No, I do not think so.
Ah...
(Emil) "I should
have forgotten her.
You were right.
This film idea
was totally stupid.
It is too late for
you to realize this now.
You have to make this film.
- It's no use anymore.
The thing was
doomed from the start.
Wake up little brother.
You go to the set
now and finish it.
Do you understand me?
I'm sorry.
No, you can't let the crew down.
You can't let me down!
Beck is just waiting
for you to fail.
And then you'll end up in prison.
Do you want that?
Come on.
That's your place
Should we take the
35's or 50's lens?
You decide. I blindly
trust you.
Blind.
Which one would you take?
Perfect. Me too.
Is this a good position,
sir... Boborkmann?
Excellent position.
Sound on!
- (Tonmann) sound is running.
(Emil) camera on!
(Helmut) Clapperboard
- (Assistant) 48/1 the first.
Clap!
Action!
Stop!
I've seen enough.
This dance scene makes no sense.
What?
- Cleopatra doesn't have to dance
like a prostitute to seduce Caesar.
This can be done from a
good close-up of Beatrice.
No, wait. - Am I right Beatrice?
(with accent) Of
course. He's right.
What are you doing?
The dress is tasteless.
- This is my dance! You...
No discussion.
The scene is
important. We can not...
What can we not do?
The...
I agree with him.
We don't need the scene.
Stay away from her.
End of shooting.
We'll continue shooting
with Beatrice tomorrow.
A wrap!
Hellwerg is totally overwhelmed.
Tomorrow it's definitely over.
The substitute director is ready.
Be sure. Tomorrow the
coronation scene will be shot.
You know what to do. - Yes.
There are rumors that
you sleep on the set.
I had to see that
with my own eyes.
You live in the film world because
you have no place in the real one.
Do you think I'm
stupid? I can see you.
Ow!
What are you doing?
- Oh dear, Mr. Boborkmann!
I thought you were someone else.
Have you seen my friend Emil?
I was sleeping. Waking me up is rude.
- You know what is rude? Not saying hello is also rude.
You threw a shoe at me.
- You ignored me.
Are you angry that I didn't
come back? Or what?
Oh... nonsense.
If I remember correctly, you said, "maybe".
So I didn't assume
you would come.
You wanted to show me something.
What was it?
I don't remember anymore. No idea.
A lot has happened since then.
Yes, it looks like
it. Much happened.
The last time I saw you, you were an
extra who was prohibited here.
Now you are director
Karl Boborkmann.
I was lucky and took my chance.
The artist name is part of it.
I am a little nervous.
I don't know if you noticed.
Careful. There is film in it.
We didn't shoot the scene today.
That's true.
I wanted to continue shooting...
- Dance scenes often get cut out.
I'm used to it.
Yes, but that would have
been something special.
At the end of the dance
it was going to rain rose petals.
I would have flipped
the lever and...
Would have been nice. - Yes.
It was my favorite part.
We can still film it.
Yes.
You just have to stand there.
Come on.
(with a French accent) Miss
Lambert, on your position.
Or Mrs.? I'm not sure.
Miss
For now
Your position please.
I didn't know that
you and Omar...
That you...
I'm happy for you. - Thank you.
Um... - I called here.
Wait.
- They didn't know anyone named Emil.
It's starting
I didn't think we'd ever see each other Emil...
- Quiet please. Sound on.
Sound runs. - Emil...
Camera on. The camera...
running.
Cleopatra, dance scene
the first. Action.
I think I should go.
Yes, I should sleep too.
Important day tomorrow.
I am happy for you.
For everything here.
Maybe there is a place
for you in the world.
Maybe it's here.
Peut-tre.
I wanted to come back then.
Is everything ready?
- Of course.
Are you going to zip up my dress?
- Yes, sure. It looks good on you.
(Beck) Boborkmann!
The comrades want to
see the first material tonight.
Good success!
Yes, I'll be waiting for
you in the theater tonight.
Madame Beatrice,
you look fantastic.
You are crowned Queen of
Egypt today. Are you ready?
Very good.
Get the extras.
This must be packed with Romans.
Helmut, my dear.
Start the mill.
We shoot.
Hey, Prague! Get
your notebook out.
Today we make film history.
Extras are ready.
Very good. Very good.
Get ready to shoot.
There is only one problem.
There was something to celebrate
yesterday. I didn't quite understand it.
Stop!
Film history...
(He orders
something in Russian.)
Guys what's up
All good. You can film.
Turn on the camera
and we'll do it.
We are shooting the coronation
scene. We discussed that!
The guy, glasses there, said
no film today.
Should celebrate.
Not a problem.
What should we crown?
Okay. Just stand
at attention, yes?
Stand as straight as a tree.
We have to stop.
- We can't.
If we stop we'll throw
everything away.
We shoot. We shoot!
Everybody in their positions!
This can not be happening.
(Emil) Sound on!
- (Tonmann) sound is running.
Camera on!
- (Helmut) camera is running.
Action!
That is ridiculous! How am
I supposed to act like this?
What are you doing there?
- This is an earthquake.
Keep shaking like
this. It's an earthquake.
Earthquake. Earthquake!
Earthquake! Earthquake.
Earthquake! Earthquake!
Here, earthquake!
You all have to shake.
Earthquake! Earthquake! Earthquake!
This is an earthquake!
Earthquake!
Earthquake!
Earthquake! Throw dirt!
Throw dirt! Earthquake!
Throw dirt! Throw dirt!
Come on! You heard
him! This is an earthquake!
Throw anything! Come on!
Ah no!
Throw dirt in the air!
Earthquake! Earthquake!
Get out of the way!
Earthquake! Earthquake!
OK. Yes.
Beatrice, an earthquake.
Everyone is shaking. Participate!
There was no earthquake
at the coronation of Cloptre.
It is a movie!
Shake. Come on!
Ah!
Omar, put your arm around
her. You have to protect her.
Ah... - Helmut! Helmut!
Helmut, close, close!
Closer.
Closer. Closer.
Hold me tight.
Yes.
(Beck) Good evening, comrades.
- General Director Beck.
We are excited to see what
Comrade Boborkmann has done so far.
Yes, me too.
Unfortunately, he arbitrarily moved
away from what was discussed.
We have a surprise.
May I introduce you to the
experienced director Janssen?
He will be there to advise us.
- Yes, very pleased.
Yes, Comrade Boborkmann
will be here soon.
After you. - Mr. Janssen.
Effects. Ridiculous.
What can I say?
Very good work. We
didn't expect anything less.
The earthquake! The
effects! You are amazing.
An excellent director.
You have a great future.
(Emil) Today I
understood something.
It doesn't matter if what is
shown on the screen is real.
It's about what you feel
when you're sitting in the theatre.
The feelings you have
when you watch the film
they are real."
And that's what is most important.
The comrades...
The comrades saw
the material today.
And they are...
Well, what can I say?
They are thrilled! - Ah!
Absolutely excited. It worked.
It worked!
Tomorrow we continue.
- (woman) Great.
Let's make this movie!
- Hooray! Yes!
When the night has come
And the land is dark
And the moon ls
the only light we'll see
No, I won't be afraid
Oh, I won't be afraid
Just as long as you
stand stand by me
So darlin ', darlin'
Stand by me
Oh, stand by me
Oh, got up
Stand by me Stand by me
If the sky that we look upon
Should tumble and fall
Or the mountains
Should crumble to the sea
I won't cry, I won't cry
No, I won't shed a tear
Just as long as you
stand stand by me
And darlin ',
darlin' Stand by me
Oh, stand by me
Oh, stood now
Stand by me
Stand by me"
Everyone look and smile!
Oh... earthquake! - Ah!
No.
No, I missed my car.
Oh no.
- Come on, I'm driving you.
You don't have a car.
With that thing?
Uh-huh. - No.
Uh-huh.
(Emil) I can also
do this, no hands.
So, exactly, horizontally.
Keep the balance.
Don't worry, I'm here. - Mhm.
Oh!
Better look ahead.
Straight.
- I want to show you something.
Don't be scared. Ready?
What's this? - No idea.
Shit, the fuel is gone.
Then...
we walk.
Come on.
It's always so dark here.
(laughs) It's night.
Of course it's dark.
No, generally.
Too little light,
too few people on the streets.
At home everything would
be full of colorful lamps
music everywhere,
lots of people.
How is it in Paris?
Tell me about it.
Oh, I love Paris. You
would like it as well.
My father always said,
"When God is bored,
then he opens the
windows and looks at Paris."
It's true. You're outside,
dancing, singing, just...
Free. - Yes, free.
That sounds wonderful.
Who knows? Maybe
one day I'll go there.
Come on!
Oh God. Oh...
Keep talking. How
are the people there?
Warm. Open somehow.
You... you laugh a lot.
You talk louder.
You look into people's eyes more.
You... touch more.
Security check. IDs please.
What is this about?
- You need to identify yourself.
Yes / Yes. Yes of course.
Here, you are.
Are you French? - Yes.
Stay here and behave yourselves.
What's this
about? We did nothing.
Quiet!
Why do you have documents
with different names?
ID card Emil Hellwerg
and an ID card
of the Babelsberg film studio in
the name of Karl Boborkmann.
Yes, that...
Answer me! - Yes, the Boborkmann...
Hands behind your back.
What? Come on!
How come? He didn't
do anything wrong.
(Policeman) you're under arrest now!
Should we take you as well?
- How could you?
Emil! Let him go!
- (Emil) Leave her alone!
No! No! Emil! Stop it!
He didn't do anything!
- Everything will be OK!
Emil!
It will be alright. - Emil...
What should I do?
Emil!
Milou...
Open up. Milou.
- I'm just changing my clothes.
I've been waiting for you.
Where have you been?
The photo took
longer. I'm so sorry.
Stop avoiding me! Do
you think I'm stupid?
Where have you been?
You were with him
Now you're hanging around
with him at night.
I knew it.
I saw it coming, but
I thought to myself:
"No, she's not going to fall for
a wannabe director."
It's not like that.
It's not like that.
How is it then?
I see.
Do you want to leave me now?
Give up your life
in France for a flirt?
Trade a safe, good life
for one with somebody
you don't even know?
In a country that is like a prison?
People are getting shot at the border!
I will not let you
throw your life away.
You are coming to Paris with me.
You got that?
In there!
May I ask for your attention.
As some may already know
director Boborkmann can
no longer continue his work on this film.
So now I would like to introduce
you to your new director
Comrade Janssen
He will wrap up the shoot
successfully.
Let him know what is happening
and get back to work
as soon as possible.
Yes, good day.
First of all, I must
speak to all of the managers.
I will be making some changes.
Yes, here for example
Christa, make-up artist.
You know that. - Naturally.
I have some comments
about Madame Mores make-up.
But I think that
can wait a while.
Hi there? Christa?
Are you listening to me
(Beck) Christa?
Mr. Janssen. - Helmut.
I'm sorry.
(Beck) Come back immediately!
Ay ay ay.
Think about what you're doing.
This will have consequences.
This will cost you your jobs.
Whoever goes now
will not come back.
Have you gone crazy
Hellwerg, damn it!
How are you going to
explain that to the comrades?
(Man) Is Hellwerg in there?
- Yes, he's being relocated.
(Man) open the door!
Comrade General
Director, is that the man?
Complete the film.
And don't screw it up.
Look who's here.
Hooray, hooray, hooray, hooray!
Alex.
Where's Milou?
This is a piece for our film.
Do not go.
Don't go back to Paris.
It's not that easy.
I have a life
With him?
- Yes
With him. In Paris.
Just because he lives in the right place.
- You don't know him at all.
You only guessed right
a couple of times with me.
Should I guess again?
- If you must.
You're just with him
for a bit of security.
Or?
- And what is the alternative?
Live like you? A life of
impulsive decisions?
You do whatever you want.
Like with this film.
A double life as a director with one foot
in prison. How is this supposed to work?
You try to convince yourself
with that ring on your finger
that life is more than love
and dreams.
You know as well as I do that
these are the things that really matter.
But you'd rather throw
your dream away for him.
For a little bit of security.
You have no idea.
You have had your
dream for a few weeks.
I've fought for mine.
I've worked for 15
years until my feet bled.
And you tell me that I
want a little security?
What do you want?
We have known each other for 6 weeks!
- No, it's been a year.
And since then I've
been waiting here for you.
You were waiting?
You had no idea that we would
see each other again.
It's just a coincidence
that I'm here.
And now should I give
up everything for you?
I'm so sorry.
You're right.
Alex, schedule
change for tomorrow.
I need everyone on it.
What are you talking about? Why?
How are we
supposed to get it all done?
We're shooting the dance scene
again tomorrow. Really big and impressive.
One moment. Stop.
There is not enough time.
Why? The choreography is the same.
The backdrop is there.
Everyone knows the scene.
We are just making it bigger.
This won't make her stay.
I know.
I made a film for a dancer.
I won't let her go
without her getting her dance.
Excuse me, Miss Lambert.
Change of schedule for tomorrow.
You won't dance in this scene.
If you keep her here,
you will destroy her life.
Stop!
You have nothing to offer
her in this walled-in country!
(Alex) Stop now!
(man)
See you tomorrow.
Ah!
Charles! What's this?
I guess there's been a change
of schedule today.
Yes / Yes. But what
about my scene?
It been cut.
- I did not agree to this.
With all due respect,
it's not up to you.
You are an excellent actress and it has
been an honor to work with you.
But I didn't write
this film for you.
(Milou) Thanks
for... the scene.
Emil...
The last few weeks have been
the most beautiful of my life.
But today after the shoot
Omar and Beatrice
fly back to Paris and...
I...
will be on that plane.
I can't stay here. I'm so sorry.
And...
you have to find a
replacement for me.
I can not dance. I can not.
I know...
It would be completely
insane to stay here.
I know that. But you must dance.
Milou, you have to
dance. Not for me, for...
You have to dance for yourself!
I'm only here to pick
up Beatrice's things.
Well here we are.
(Substitute Dancer) I still cannot believe
that I get to dance today.
Hopefully the dress fits. This is so beautiful.
- Yes.
The director is really cute.
- Don't even think about it.
Why not?
Married?
Worse.
Madly in love. - With whom?
(Christa) With the
French dancer.
Beatrice's Double?
She's engaged to Omar.
- Yes, that's the tragedy.
She was here last year.
And he fell in love.
The day the border was closed
they were supposed to meet here.
He spent the whole night
building a backdrop for her.
A scene from her favorite film.
He wanted to surprise her.
But she never came.
She was in a
hotel in West Berlin
and couldn't cross the border.
Oh no. - But it gets worse.
Boborkmann is not Boborkmann.
He is not a director at all.
He was an extra.
He had no way of
seeing her again.
No address, nothing at all.
He wanted to
run across the border.
But then he had a better idea.
He took over an office here in
the studio under a false name.
(Dancer) No!
(Christa) He fooled the administration into
thinking he was the production manager.
And now get this!
He and his brother wrote
the script and made this film
only to bring Beatrice
back to Babelsberg.
(Dancer) Because then
her double would come also.
(Christa) Exactly.
Can you imagine?
This whole film only exists
because an extra fell
in love with a dance double.
Yes.
Milou.
Um... please go
to your position.
(Emil) Sound on!
- Sound is running.
Camera on! - camera is running.
Music!
Let's go!
Go ahead!
Just let the camera run.
Bravo!
Bravo!
Bravo!
Bravo!
You danced wonderfully.
I shouldn't have stopped you.
(Border Control) Identification please.
Everything is good. Drive on.
Milou! Milou!
She showed you the finger again?
Yes.
Grandma has always
been very cheeky.
Hmm? Granny?
What is your
grandma's first name?
Well, grandma.
Your granny's...
first name is
Milou.
(Grandson) I need to talk to grandma!
- Wait wait.
You can do that later.
I think you have something
more important to do now, don't you?
Right.