Gabriel's Redemption: Part One (2023) Movie Script

Come.
My lecture isnt finished.
Youll have plenty
of time to finish.
Bring the blanket.
Why do you want to visit
the orchard in the dark?
I want to see your naked
skin glow in the moonlight.
I suppose
Guido da Montefeltro can wait.
Have you ever made love
in an orchard before?
Then Im glad Im your first.
Youre my last, Gabriel.
My only.

[chuckles]
[zipper unzips]
What if someone sees us?
These woods are private.
[chuckles]
Youre very good at that.
Theres no one here but us.
[panting]

"To the Nuptial Bowre I led
her blushing like the Morn:
all Heavn, And happie
Constellations on that houre."
Paradise Lost.
But in this place, I can only
think of Paradise found.
This is where
I discovered true beauty.

[heavy breathing]
[panting]
[moans]
[grunting]
[panting]
I have something for you.
Its beautiful.

Id like to have
a child with you.
What?
So soon?
Dante lost Beatrice
when she was 24.
Losing you would be devastating.
No morbid talk.
Not here, after weve
celebrated life and love.
Its too soon
for a baby, Gabriel.
Weve only been
married six months
and I want to finish my PhD.
Agreed.
But when we get back
from Europe,
I would like to speak
to my doctor.
Its been so long
since my vasectomy,
a reversal might
not be possible.
Theres more than one way
to make a family.
We could adopt.
When the time is right.
We can do all those things.
When youre ready,
well start trying.
We should probably practice
a lot in preparation.
Mmm, absolutely.

[murmuring]
[gasps]
[heavy breathing]
[exhales]
[panting]
[baby cries]
There you are.
Whats wrong?
I woke up early.
I need to make up the bedrooms
and clean the bathrooms.
Then I need to go shopping
and plan the meals, and...
Im not even dressed.
You dont need to do anything.
Ill find somebody
who can clean the house
and I will go to the
grocery store after my run.
You go back to bed.
You need to work
on your lecture.
But sleep first.
A tired mind doesnt
work very well.
Thank you.

[door closes]
Well, hello there.
What are you reading?
"The Way of a Pilgrim."
- Is it good?
- Very.
Its about a Russian Orthodox
man who tries to learn
what it means to pray
without ceasing.
Are you praying for something?
For a good many things.
To become a good man,
a good husband,
and, someday, a good father.
I suppose were all on our
own spiritual journeys.
Some of us are further
along than others.
I dont think of it like that.
Hmm?
I think we chase God
until He catches us.
One of the things I admire
most about you
is your compassion
for human frailty.
I have my own vices, Gabriel.
Theyre just hidden.
The house looks great.
Thank you.
I was able to get
a lot of work done today.
And thanks for making dinner.
You werent hungry when
I brought it up to you.
I ran into a problem
with my paper.
- Can I help?
- No.
If I present a paper
that sounds like you wrote it,
people will notice.
Christa has already been
spreading rumors about us.
Christa is just jealous.
Shes going backwards
in her career.
You havent let me
read your paper.
Although weve discussed
Guido so much
Im sure I know what youll say.
Has my book been helpful?
Yes.
But Im taking a different tack.
Ill let you read it tomorrow.
Im worried about
what youll think.
Ill be honest, but supportive.
I promise.
- Now...
- Hm?
I need you to take me
to bed and cheer me up.
Hmm... What would cheering
you up entail?
Taking my mind off my troubles
by tantalizing me
with your body.
What if Im not ready for bed?
I guess Ill have to go
to bed by myself.
And maybe cheer myself up.
[laughs]
You cant present this!
Why not?
Youre wrong.
St. Francis comes for the soul
of Guido after he dies.
You agreed with me.
I changed my mind.
I sent you an illustration
of the scene
while we were separated.
Now youre going to stand in
front of a room full of people
and say that it never happened?
If you read my
footnotes, youd...
None of your sources
go as far as you.
Youre merely speculating.
Merely?
Professor Marinelli
liked my paper.
Shes too easy on you.
Too easy?
And I suppose you think
Professor Picton invited me
to the conference
merely out of charity?
Of course not.
But I dont want you to get
up in front of senior professors
and offer a
nave interpretation.
- If youd read my book, youd...
- I read your book, Professor.
You only mention the text
Im analyzing in passing.
And you navely adopt
the standard interpretation.
I never navely adopt anything.
Dont you want me
to have my own ideas?
Or do I have to repeat what
everyone else has already said?
I never said that.
But you could benefit
from my experience.
Oh, here we go.
What do you mean, here we go?
What do you mean, here we go?
Youre just upset that Im going
to disagree with you in public.
- Bullshit.
- Bullshit?
Then why are you telling me
to change my paper
so I fall in line
with your book?
Im trying to help
so you wont make a...
What was that?
If you start now,
you should be able
to rewrite your paper
in time for the conference.
I cant change my thesis.
Theyve already published
the abstract
on the conference website.
This isnt the time
to be stubborn.
Oh, yes, it is.
Its my paper!
Julianne, listen.
Julianne, listen to me, please.
Stop.
We can talk about this.
Im not your student anymore.
- Damn it. Stop!
- Dont yell at me!
Im sorry.
Lets sit down and talk.
I cant talk to you right now
without saying
something Im going to regret.
Im going to avoid you
for the rest of the day.
Rachel, Aaron, and Richard
are arriving soon.
What will I tell them?
Tell them Im an idiot.
Obviously.
Julianne, listen to me.
Please.
Fine!
Our first fight and
you lock yourself
in the God damned bathroom.
My first public lecture
and you tell me its shit!

- Hey, everyone.
- Hey!
- Hi.
- Hi.
Wheres Julia?
Working on her paper.
Jules!
Get your ass down here!
Rachel, please.
Dad, youre welcome
to stay in your old room.
Ill be fine in the guest room.
You and Julia fighting?
You can say hello
when you go upstairs.
Im barbecuing ribs for dinner.
Ribs? Fantastic.
Theyre fighting.
What could they
be fighting about?
I dont know, maybe Julia
rearranged his collection
of bow ties without asking him.
[laughs]
[knocking]
- Hey.
- Rach! Hi!
So whats up with
you and Gabriel?
Theres like a
tension in the house.
And I dont need to be
a psychic to pick up on it.
Do you want me to go
beat him up for you?
[chuckles]
No.
I made the mistake
of letting him read
the lecture
Ive been working on.
He told me its terrible.
What is wrong with him?
I would have thrown
something at his head.
I thought about it,
but I didnt want to have
to clean up the blood.
He said he was trying to help.
I dont want him too lie.
If the paper needs work,
I need to know that.
He should know how to help you
without telling you that
your paper is terrible.
Exactly.
He says he wants to
start a family with me.
Then he turns around and
acts like a condescending ass.
Wait a minute!
He wants kids?
Yes.
Im so happy for you!
When are you going
to start trying?
We agreed to wait
until I graduate.
It would be too difficult to
work on a PhD and have a baby.
Wed like to have a baby.
- What, now?
- Maybe.
If I learned
anything from losing my mother,
its that life is uncertain.
I dont want to wait to start a
family and then lose my chance.
What if I get cancer?
Having kids is one way
to rid Gabriel
of his condescending attitude.
Whys that?
Are you kidding?
He will be begging for help
when a baby empties
a dirty diaper on him!
Hmm...
Hes come a long way...
Married and talking
about starting a family?
When my parents
first brought Gabriel home,
hed hide food in his room.
He didnt unpack
his bags, either.
He kept expecting them
to send him away.
I didnt know that.
Its remarkable.
My advice is to talk to him.
But, it wouldnt be a bad idea
to let him sweat
just a little bit.
Make him sleep on the couch.
[chuckles]
Lord, please bless this
food to our use
and we to thy service
and let us ever be mindful
of the needs of others.
Amen.
- Begin.
- Thanks, Dad.

[no audible dialogue]
Excuse me.
Coffee?
Yes, thanks.
Man, suck it up and
tell her youre sorry.
Why are you assuming
Im at fault?
Statistically speaking...
Apologize.
Et tu, Brute?
I didnt say anything.
But, theres a reason
that older married couples
will tell young ones not
to let the sun
go down on their anger.
Im not the one who shut down
rational communication.
Shes not irrational.
Shes hurt.
And when someone hurts you,
its rational to withdraw.
Especially given her history.
I didnt mean to hurt her.
Im sure thats true.
But Im also confident
that you dont fight fairly.
My advice is to be
gentle with your wife.
[sighs]

[door lock rattles]
[phone beeps]
[Gabriel]Im sorry. Forgive me.
Please, let me in.
[knocks]
Hi.
Im sorry, Julianne.
You hurt me.
I know.
Im sorry.
I reread your paper.
You forgot something important.

Can I come in?
I said some things yesterday
I shouldnt have.
Thank you.
I have some suggestions
on how to improve your paper.
I know its important that
you stand on your own two feet.
But Im happy to help,
if you need me.
Id welcome your advice,
as long as you dont
tell me what to think.
Your ideas are one of the many
things that I love about you.
The story of Francis risking
Hell to save Guidos soul
represents
what I was trying to do when
I made my confession
to the disciplinary committee
back in Toronto.
I was reacting to what I took
to be your dismissal
of the story.
Our story.
I never meant to dismiss
something so important.
If the situation
had been reversed,
I would have descended
to Hell to rescue you.
[sighs]
I was a bastard.
Then and now.
May I?
I didnt mean to hurt you.
I know.
Im sorry, too.
I dont like fighting with you.
I dont like it either.
I didnt set out to disagree
with you in my paper.
It just... sort of happened.
Come here.
I promise not to be
a selfish bastard,
if you promise not to
lock yourself in the bathroom
to get away from me.
I promise not to lock
myself in the bathroom,
if you can give me space.
We can take a break
during an argument,
but if we promise
to talk later on.
Agreed.
Your paper changed my mind.
Its good.
What?
You heard me.
Although I have some suggestions
on how you can
strengthen the last part.
You didnt quite
convince me there.
I could use a few pointers.
Ill give you credit
in the footnotes.
Id be honored to appear
in one of your footnotes.
Thank you.
Its hard for me to be a student
in the same field as you.
We arent in competition.
Im proud of you for having
the courage of your convictions.
When you defend your paper
at Oxford,
Ill be sitting in the front row
thinking, "Thats my girl."
Its a dream come true,
to hear you say that.
Then Ill keep saying it.

Oh!
Somethings cooking
but it aint the apple pie.
The coffee is ready
and the pie is cooling.
Whats the hold up?
We were just making coffee.
Oh, I bet you were.
Ill leave you ladies to it.
So what was cooking?
And please tell me you
didnt use the counters.
Too cold.
[gasps]
[laughing]
Hows married life, Tammy?
I never thought it would happen.
Why not?
Before Scott,
I was living with someone.
And we talked
about getting married,
then I got pregnant and
he decided he wasnt ready.
- Asshole.
- Im so sorry.
Ill never forgive Eric
for signing away
his parental rights.
Because Quinn will never
know his father.
Sperm donors are not fathers.
I mean, Richard didnt
contribute
genetic material to Gabriel,
but hes his father.
Gabriel is so nice.
Even when Quinn ruined his suit.
You should have seen him
before he met Julia.
He would have handed Quinn
the dry cleaning bill.
[chuckling]
I cant imagine that.
Hes so wonderful with Quinn.
[baby murmurs]
Hi.
I think its bedtime.
- Hey, sweetie!
- I know.
Say goodnight.
Bye-bye.
Aw...
I guess Id better take
the men their dessert.
Can we talk for a minute, honey?
Of course.
[sighs]
So, Ive been spending a lot
of time with your father.
I love him and he loves me.
And weve been talking
about the future.
About making things permanent.
Thats great!
If you and Dad get married,
Ill be there.
Youll more than just be there.
Youll be one of my bridesmaids.
Whats all this?
Diane was just telling me
how much she loves you.
Is that so?
Not that youve asked,
but you have my blessing.
Is that so?
Well...
My girls.
[door opens]
[door closes]
[sighs]
Richard...
I thought wed agreed
that youd call me Dad.
Of course, Dad.
Does it bother you that
weve changed things?
Inside the house?
Grace would like what
youve done in the kitchen.
[chuckles]
You know, something
when Im inside the house...
I swear I can hear her voice.
I dont feel her when
Im in Philadelphia.
Oh...
Here.
Thank you.
Do you like living
in Philadelphia?
My research position
hasnt gone as expected.
Im thinking about retiring.
Move back.
Live here.
Oh, no.
This is your home now.
Were only here
during vacations.
We could switch
bedrooms immediately.
Its very kind of you to offer,
but I sold the house to Gabriel.
It would be a mitzvah for us.
And we need the blessing.
What sort of blessing
do you need?
I have an unanswered prayer.
All prayers are answered.
Sometimes the answer is no.
I cant pretend that the thought
of moving back here
doesnt tempt me.
As long as the house
is in the family,
it doesnt matter who owns it.
Gabriel would never
part with the orchard.
It would relieve him to know
its in capable hands.
Youd be helping us out.
[water running]
Care to join me?
I prefer to watch.
Then Ill be sure
to put on a show.
Oh, I left my bubble bath
in the guest bathroom.
Would you mind getting
it for me?
Not at all.
Goddess.
Whats the matter?
Is Rachel pregnant?
Not that I know of.
I found an empty box for a
pregnancy test in the bathroom.
It was probably her.
I wish it were you.
Our time will come.

You look as if you want
to lick me.
All over.
I do.
Mmm.
Confide in me.
You tend to take bubble baths
when youre stressed.
And youve been
taking them daily.
Im worried about
grad school and flunking out.
Im worried about my lecture.
Weve spoken about your lecture.
Its good.
You have to take grad school
one semester at a time.
You dont have
to entertain our relatives.
They will entertain themselves.
You work on your paper,
Ill make dinner.
Thank you.
My dad and Diane are talking
about getting married.
How do you feel about that?
Id like him to have
someone to grow old with.
Youll have your birthday
when we get to Italy.
How would you like
to celebrate it?
With you.
In bed.
For a couple of days.
Would you like to invite people
to the exhibition in Florence?
No.
I want you all to myself.
We can invite them to Cambridge
for your birthday.
I dont like making a
big deal about my birthday.
25 is a milestone birthday.
So is 35.
My milestones are important
only because of you.
Without you,
theyd be empty days.
Do you have to be so sweet?
Since Ive been eaten sour
most of my life, yes.
I believe this is a room
we havent christened yet.
[laughing]
[sighs]
Ive missed this.
Holding you in the dark.
Hearing your voice.
Ive been healed.
And it was more wonderful
than you can imagine.
Im sorry I didnt
realize you were sick.
I should have noticed.
It was my time.
Oh... theres so much
I want to show you.
But not yet.
Rest, my love.

[chuckles]
I am moving back here.
Ill arrange the movers.
Well make sure to
get our furniture
out of the master bedroom.
No.
The guest room is mine now.
Grace will be with me
wherever I sleep.
Lovely.
What the hell are those?
I think they are beds.
Were checking into a hotel.
You promised.
Nigel promised me a room with
a double bed and an en-suite.
Wheres the double bed?
Wheres the en-suite?
Well have to share
the bathroom...
Well be at the conference
most of the time.
C.S. Lewis was inspired by those
statues when he wrote
"The Lion, the Witch
and the Wardrobe."
Thats what they say.
Do you think his ghost ever
wanders around here?
I doubt hed haunt
a place like this.
Hes probably at the pub.
Sex is almost impossible.
There isnt enough space.
That isnt how I remember it.
Is that a challenge,
Mrs. Emerson?
Are you worried
about your paper?
Do you think if I asked
C.S. Lewis
to intercede on my behalf,
hed pray for me?
Lewis was a Protestant.
He didnt believe in
petitioning the saints.
What if people ask why
you left Toronto?
Well say I wanted to be
in Boston
because you were going
to Harvard
and we were getting married.
Christa Petersons been
telling a different story.
Forget about her.
We dont have to worry about
her at this conference.
But academics get bored
and like to talk.
Nothing is more exciting
than a sex scandal.
I beg to differ,
Mrs. Emerson.
Sex with you is more
exciting than a scandal.
[laughing]

I wondered where you went.
I read the Narnia books.
They were special to me.
I read them, too.
There was a closet
in my mothers apartment
that I was convinced would open
Narnia if I was a good boy.
Clearly, I wasnt.
I know what its like
to be willing
to do anything to make
the stories real.
I said to you once that you were
not my equal, but my better.
Im afraid
you didnt believe me.
Its difficult to believe
you think that, sometimes.
I need to do a better
job showing you.
But Im not sure how.
[bells ringing]

There is
The Eagle and Child pub.
This is a dream come true.
Youve worked very hard.
This is your reward.
I wonder what kind of trouble
we can get into in that museum.

[low chattering]
[laughing]
Fuck.
Im settling this once
and for all.
You cant.
Not here.
Trouble in Paradise?
I guess the honeymoon
didnt last very long.
Not that Im surprised.
Id like a word, Miss Peterson.
Not after what happened
in Toronto.
If you want to say something,
youll have to say it in
front of witnesses.
I learned a few things
after you resigned.
BDSM. I didnt know
Professor Singer was your Domme.
Lets go. Please.
Im looking forward
to your paper, Julianne.
Its unusual for a first-year
student to be included.
However did you manage it?
Professor Picton invited me.
Wouldnt it be better
to invite Gabriel to speak?
Or maybe he simply
wrote your paper for you.
I do my own research.
Your "research" wont help
you write a lecture.
Not unless you plan
on telling us
about all the Harvard
professors you slept with.
Thats enough.
You dont speak to my wife.
Do you understand?
Temper, temper, Gabriel.
Its Professor Emerson.
Lets go.
For me.
What is the meaning of this?
Who are you?
Im Christa Peterson,
from Columbia.
Im familiar with
the faculty from Columbia.
Youre not one of them.
Im a graduate student.
Ah.
Then youre not from Columbia.
You attend Columbia.
Why are you here?
Professor Picton, excuse me.
The young lady is a friend.
You need to teach
her some manners.
Im aware of the havoc
you wreaked in Toronto.
Youll follow the
rules of decorum here,
or Ill have you thrown out.
Do you understand?
If your guest is unpleasant
in any way,
I will hold you
personally responsible.
I have an unforgiving memory.
Capisce?
Certo, Professor.
Im the injured party here.
When I was in Toronto, Gabriel...
Codswallop!
Im old, not senile.
I recognize a woman
scorned when I see one.
Everyone else here should, too.
This is not a fraternity party.
Dear friends,
it is good to see you.
I shall buy you
a drink this evening.
You and I shall
have a little chat.
Why dont you join
us for dinner?
Thank you, but Ill
speak with Julianne first.
We should have walked away.
You stood up for yourself.
Im not going to stand there
and let her call you a whore.
I asked you to stop.
Lets not fight
because of that bitch.
Thats what she wants.
She was spoiling for a fight,
and you gave it to her.
If Id done nothing,
then it would look like
I agreed with her.
I asked you to stop,
and you brushed me off.
Im your wife.
Not a speed bump.
In this paper, I shall catalogue
Dantes use of the number three
throughout the Divine Comedy.
I shall argue that Il Poeta
is identifying
the number of
completion in nature,
animality and humanity,
as well as in the
structure and organization
of the afterlife.
This repetition should
be seen as Dantes assertion
that completion and
perfection underlie
all of Gods creation, including
that of the underworld.
The first most significant
use of the number three
occurs in Dantes division of
the Comedy into three books:
Inferno,
Purgatorio, and Paradiso.
[Julianne] I dont want
to fight. Im sorry.
Thank you for defending me.
Im sorry she mentioned
Professor Payne.
[lecturer continues]
...only to be replaced by
the third...
[Gabriel]Emerson was an ass.
But he hopes you forgive him.
[coughs]
Indeed, just as three beasts
threaten Dantes progress,
so the three Guides
ensure and defend it.
The three Theological virtues
of Faith, Hope, and Charity
appear in Dantes Paradiso.
The poet himself must pass
three examinations
on the virtues,
administered by the three
apostles
St. Peter,
St. James, and St. John.
[Gabriel]Im sorry I embarrassed you.
I promise Ill do better.
Youre not a speed bump.
Youre my Beatrice.

[rock music playing]
Two Caledonian ales, please.
Enjoy.
Did Gabriel ever explain to you
how I came to be in his debt?
He mentioned something
about doing you a favor,
but he wasnt specific.
Six years ago,
I received an e-mail
from an old friend at Oxford.
He told me our former professor,
John Hutton,
was in hospice, dying.
He was one of the sources
for my paper.
Well, when I received the news,
I approached Jeremy Martin
and asked to take a week off.
Jeremy Martin was an ally
to both of you.
He tried very hard to help.
I wondered why he helped Christa
transfer to his alma mater.
There were rumors
they were involved.
I expect better from you than
to listen to gossip.
Im so sorry.
Youre right.
Christa Peterson couldnt
attract Jeremys eye
if she were standing naked,
holding an original manuscript
of The Decameron
and a case of beer.
Well, when I explained
my situation to Gabriel,
he volunteered to take over
for me while I was away.
It turned out,
I was away for four months.
I didnt know that.
I never explained to Gabriel
why it was so important
for me to see John
before he died.
I dont see a reason to
keep this a secret anymore.
I dont expect you to hide
things from your husband,
but I would ask that
you be discreet.
Of course, Professor.
Old Hut, who was married, and I
were involved
while I was his student.
No one found out about us,
but there were rumors and
they followed me for ten years.
Someone wrote to the University
of Cambridge,
claiming that the only
reason Old Hut
wrote me a letter
of recommendation for me
was simply because
I was sleeping with him.
[laughs]
Im so sorry.
That isnt funny.
Of course its funny.
You should have seen the letter
of recommendation he wrote.
"Miss Picton is competent
in the study of Dante."
I was his lover, for Gods sake.
You think he could
trouble himself
to write more than one sentence?
When you have your
faculty position,
all these rumors
will be forgotten.
Thats six years away,
Professor.
Considering all that
Ive shared with you,
I think you could
call me Katherine.
Thank you, Katherine.
You need to be more
assertive, academically.
Dont let yourself be ravaged by
wolves like some diseased moose.
You mustnt let your
husband defend you.
It makes you look helpless.
Chivalry in academia is dead.
[chamber music playing]
Dessert?
Excuse me.
Ladies Room.
She needs rest.
The poor girl is worn out.
Yes.
You cannot be
Juliannes champion
at academic conferences.
Let her brightness shine.
Thats all I want.
Good.
Now, I hope when I give my
lecture in January at Harvard
Ill be invited
to your home for dinner.
Greg Matthews always
takes me to these
appalling molecular
gastronomy restaurants
that serve deconstructed entres
cooked in liquid nitrogen.
I never know
whether Im having dinner
or sitting for an exam
in organic chemistry.
[chuckles]
[electronic music]
[panting]
[grunts]
[sighs]
I need the room tomorrow night.
Ill be entertaining.
[music stops]
Youd take someone
to your bed so soon?
The sheets will still be warm.
Dont judge me.
Youre married.
Who I fuck is
none of your business.
Such a dirty mouth, Cristina.
I wondered why you
insisted I bring you.
Youre here for revenge.
Were both getting
what we wanted.
Be careful, Cristina.
You dont want
Professor Picton as an enemy.
I dont care.
Fuck!
Dont you understand
the patronage system?
Departments around the world
are filled with her admirers.
Your chair at Columbia
was her student.
Too late.
Ive already pissed her off.
Im responsible for you,
so you will stop.
Im trying to get a position
in America.
I dont need Professor
Picton making trouble.
Fine, but I need
the room tomorrow.
So, who is the man
you fuck tomorrow?
A priest?
A professor?
Who said it was a man?
Then I expect you to share.
Wake up, darling.
You need to get ready.
You kept me up late.
[yawns]
[sniffs]
Mmm.
You smell of sex...
And me.
You cant deliver a lecture
at Oxford smelling of sex.
Watch me.
[laughs]
You look lovely.
And youre going to be fine.
Im going to get a coffee.
What would you like?
Water.
See you in there.
[Christa]
Hello, Professor.
What do you want?
You wanted to talk.
So... Talk.
I want the slander
to stop or Ill sue you.
For what?
Telling the truth?
Theres no truth to your
character assassinations.
Youre forgetting the part where
you fucked one of your students
and were placed on
administrative leave.
Not to mention Professor Singer
had quite a bit
to say about you.
Youre playing with fire.
Oh, I hope so, Professor.
You keep your mouth shut.
Or Ill make your life
a living hell.
The power to end this
is in your hands.
Actually, its a bit lower.
For fucks sake.
Come to my hotel and tomorrow,
you wont have to worry about
my talented mouth anymore.
I know you.
I know what you like and
I know what you want.
No.
Then what happens next
is on your conscience.
You stay away from my wife,
do you hear me?
Im at the Malmaison.
I brought handcuffs...
Come before midnight.
Give my best to your wife.
Its so good to see you.
[whispers]
Angelfucker.
Professor Emerson.
Paul.
Shake hands, gentlemen.
I didnt know you were coming.
I wasnt.
One of the presenters
backed down,
so Professor Picton invited me.
Im giving the paper
just before Julias.
Thats great.
Congratulations.
Can I take you to lunch?
Im afraid
she already has plans.
Id love to go
to lunch with you. Thank you.
Hello, Mr. Norris.
Mr. Norris and I are having
dinner this evening.
Id like for you and
Julianne to join us.
Wed be delighted.
Since well be dining with
you this evening,
Ill claim my wife for lunch.
Very well.
I want to go to lunch with him.
Over my dead body.
He wants you.
Paul is not someone who would
make a pass at a married woman.
[sighs]
This conference is like a tour
through the various
levels of Hell.
Its just lunch.
Good afternoon.
Why Ugolinos feast
will never end.
The bestial nature of
Ugolino is dramatically depicted
in Auguste Rodins sculpture,
"Ugolino and His Children."
This piece forms piece
of Rodins larger work,
The Gates of Hell
and has a prominent position
in that commission.
Rodin sculpts Ugolino
as he crawls
over the figures of
his dying children.
His form both animalistic
and grotesque.
But Rodin has captured
Ugolino just before...

Hows your dad?
Hes better.
Thanks for the flowers.
[chuckles]
I heard about Julias wedding.
Your mom told my mom.
Shes clearly a fool.
Uh... She isnt, but thanks.
Do you want to go to a movie?
I mean, sometime.
Not right now.
Its too early to go
to a movie right now.
I dont know.
I dont want things
to be weird between us.
We always promised each other
wed be friends.
Things are just...
difficult right now.
Look, Im not trying to rope
you into something.
I really want to be friends.
Hey.
Relax.
We have a history, Allison.
And its a good one.
But I dont want to
jump back into
something with you right now.
You deserve to be with someone
whos serious and
not half in it.
So, are we on
for that movie sometime?
I might even take you to dinner,
now that Im pulling in
the big bucks as a teacher.
Only if I can take you
to breakfast right now.
[chuckles]
Should we wait here?
Excuse me, I have to use
the bathroom.
I cant wait to hear your paper.
Im sure Ill have
a few questions.
Your vendetta is ridiculous.
I never did anything to you.
You have something I want
and I always get what I want.
I dont understand
what he sees in you.
Gabriel is beautiful.
Hes a legend.
All the women at Lobby
knew him and wanted to fuck him.
He needs to be with
a woman whose appetite
is as voracious as his.
He is.
Hardly.
Im sure he enjoyed
the conquest,
but now his eyes will wander.
Hes probably cheated already.
Love.
What?
What Gabriel sees in me.
The answer is love.
I know about the other women.
They arent a threat.
Youre delusional.
Why would he want
a vanilla little mouse
when he could have
a tiger in his bed?
Better a loving mouse
than an indifferent tiger.
Those women didnt see
who he truly is.
They didnt care
that he was miserable.
They would have used him
until there was nothing left
and then thrown him away.
I have loved him since
I was seventeen.
I love all of him,
the light and the dark.
That is why hes with me.
So do your worst, Christa.
But if youre planning to seduce
my husband, you will fail.
Youre right about
one thing, though.
My husband is an
exceptional lover.
Absolutely mind-blowing.
And tonight and every night,
the woman enjoying his
adventurous nature will be me.
Not bad for a mouse.
You look good.
Much better than
the last time I saw you.
Married life agrees with me.
You all right?
Ive just noticed
the Rabbits gone.
About time, dont you think?
Ill miss her.
Im so sorry.
Im so sorry.
Sorry.
Table for two by the window?
Maybe we could trade
tables with the little girl?
She might like
to look out the window.
Thank you.
Maia, we can sit by the window.
Isnt that nice?
We can look at the pumps.
Come on.
Thank you.
Are you planning on having a
Maia of your own anytime soon?
No.
Um, not yet, I mean...
Do you want to share?
Sure, the lunch special and
appetizer platter look good.
Tired?
A little.
My eyes bother me sometimes.
You should get your eyes
checked.
Lots of grad students end up
with eyestrain.
Do you wear glasses?
No, I drank a lot
of milk growing up.
It helps vision.
I thought carrots did that.
Milk helps everything.
Are you seeing anyone?
Ali and I go out occasionally,
but its casual.
Shes nice.
She cares about you.
I want you to be happy.
How are things going
in your program?
The professors are tough.
Im working all the time,
but I love it.
Do you go out at all?
Rarely.
Its awkward because the other
students invite their partners
and Gabriel doesnt think
its a good idea for him
to socialize with grad students.
He wants to have a baby.
And you dont?
I want to finish my program.
Im worried if we have a baby,
Ill never graduate.
Have you told him?
Yes.
He said he understood.
But once you express
that kind of desire,
it cant be taken back.
Jules, if you arent ready
for a family, say so.
Otherwise, youre gonna
end up miserable.
I dont think having
a baby with my husband
would make me miserable.
Dropping out of Harvard would.
If your husband loves you, then
he needs to wake the fuck up
and drop the whole
barefoot-and-pregnant bullshit.
He doesnt want that.
Im not the only person
whose dreams count.
Its hard for me
to see you with him.
When is he going to realize
he married an incredible woman
and that he needs
to care for her?
He does care for me.
Hed give me the world if
he could fit it in his pocket.
Im the one whos struggling.
Its hard to withhold something
from someone you love,
knowing it would make him happy.
And Im happy, Paul.
Truly.
Bon apetit.
She is a rising star at Harvard.
Please welcome Julianne Emerson.
[applause]
Thank you, Professor Patel.
The title of my presentation is
"The Silence of St. Francis:
A Witness to Fraud."
In canto 27 of Dantes Inferno,
Guido da Montefeltro
tells the story
of what happened after he died.
"Francis came afterward,
when I was dead, for me;
"but one of the black
Cherubim said to him:
"Take him not; do me no wrong;
"he must come down among
my servitors,
Because he gave
the fraudulent advice."
Guido sought absolution for
the sin of fraudulent counsel
before he committed the sin.
He believed absolution
would free him
from the consequences
of his sin.
Francis could have
called him a liar
for presenting a false
account of his appearance.
Instead of fighting
to preserve his good name,
Francis is quiet so the evil
can be heard
for exactly what it is.
Guido would have us believe
that Francis confronted
a demon but lost,
because he wasnt
smart enough to best the demon
in a match of logic.
In my view, he comes to the
grave of Guido da Montefeltro
to mourn him and his life
of fraud, not to rescue him.
In conclusion, Francis
appeared at the death of Guido,
but not to steal his soul.
If anything,
Dante uses Guido as a foil
to praise the piety of
St. Francis
by providing a stark contrast
between the two men.
Thank you.
[applause]
Thank you.
Are there any questions?
I have a question.
There are so many holes
in your paper,
I dont even know
where to begin.
But lets start
with your research.
The majority of papers accept
that Francis came for Guido.
A few deny that
Francis appeared.
But no one, no one,
believes that Francis appeared
but not for Guidos soul.
Either Guidos lying
or he isnt.
It cant be half and half,
like cream.
You didnt even mention
Canto 27,
where Guido explains to Dante
that hes telling the truth.
If you had bothered to
read Professor Huttons
seminal work on the
organization of the Inferno,
youd know he thought
the demons speech was reliable
because his words were
historically accurate.
So Hutton thought that Francis
appeared for Guidos soul, too.
Guido says hes willing
to tell the truth
because he believes Dante
is one of the damned
and thus wont be able
to repeat the story.
But Guidos tale
is self-serving.
He simply doesnt want to
tip his hand by saying so,
which is why he
gives the speech.
Youre forgetting this
line: "Ora chi se,
"ti priego che ne conte;
"non esser duro pi
chaltri sia stato,
se l nome tuo nel
mondo tegna fronte."
Dante tells Guido he intends
to repeat his tale in the world.
Its only after Dante says this
that Guido
recounts his life story.
Also, we know that Dante
doesnt resemble
the other shades physically.
So it is likely that
Guido recognized
that Dante wasnt dead.
I think...
As for your point about
Professor Huttons work,
your characterization of
his position is incorrect.
In a footnote he states that
he believed Francis appeared
because he thinks the words
of the demon
were directed at someone
other than Guido himself.
Professor Hutton says he
has doubts
as to whether Francis
appeared for Guidos soul
or for some other reason.
- But...
- Can we move on?
Youve asked your question
and the speaker answered it.
Adequately, I might add.
I tend to agree with much
of what youve said,
and although I cant
speak for him,
I surmise Old Hut
would too, if he were here.
Thank you, Professor Wodehouse.
However, you rather
glossed over the agreement
that existed between
Boniface and Guido.
My thesis was on
the interpretation
of Franciss appearance,
not Guidos sin.
Nevertheless,
Im happy to expand
on that part of the paper.
When Guido encountered
Pope Boniface VIII...
[no audible dialogue]
- Thank you.
- [applause]
Thank you, Mrs. Emerson.
Well pause now
for tea and coffee.
Thats my smart girl.
Please join us.
- Thank you.
- Excuse me.
[no audible dialogue]
Is there a problem?
Fuck it.
Professor Picton would
like you to be
an external reader on
my dissertation.
Is that something
youd consider?
Ill consider it.
I was at UCLA and people
were talking about
how Julia boinked you in
order to graduate
and get into Harvard.
Those rumors are the fruits of
Miss Petersons poisonous tree.
She will be dealt with,
I assure you.
You dont deserve her.
You think I dont know that?!
Every night when I fall
asleep with her in my arms,
I thank God shes mine.
And every morning
when I wake up,
my first thought is that
Im grateful she married me.
I will never be worthy of her.
But I will spend every
day trying my damnedest.
I know you want her.
But Im telling you,
you cant have her.
I dont just want her.
I love her.
Shes the one.
She cant be the one.
Shes my wife!
I know.
I met a pretty, sweet,
Catholic girl.
The kind of girl Ive been
looking for my whole life.
When I finally asked her
to choose me,
she couldnt because she was
in love with the asshole
that broke her heart
and will probably
break it again and again.
Ill admit I was an asshole.
Im not that man anymore
and Im sure as hell not going
to break her heart again.
Then let her finish her program.
Let her?
Julia feels guilty
about making her grad program
such a high priority.
She told you this?
She also said she
doesnt have any friends.
How convenient.
Are you interested in
continuing to be her friend?
My friendship with
her has to end.
Shell be hurt.
Perhaps I should persuade
you to change your mind.
You cant.
Ive misjudged you, Paul.
And for that, Im... Im sorry.
Its time to move on.
When I get back to Vermont
Ill write to her.
And Ill tell Katherine
I spoke to you and you declined.
Mr. Norris!
I always intended to
be an external reader.
Your research stands
on its own merits.
If I learn that youve
broken her heart again,
were going to have a problem.
If I break Juliannes heart,
Ill deserve it.
Can we stop touching
each other now?
Do you feel differently
about grad school now?
Or are you still enthusiastic
about your program?
It was an intimidating
experience.
But Im glad I did it.
Id like to do it again.
Good.
Youre gifted, Julianne
and I want to do everything
in my power to help you succeed.
Thank you.
That means a lot.
[gasps]
In recognition of
a job well done.
To my beloved with
admiration and pride.
Gabriel.
Ill be back soon.

[knocking]
You were wonderful.
Darling?
Why are you shy?
Sometimes I worry that Im not
adventurous enough for you.
[chuckles]
Thats a remarkable worry
after the past few hours.
Christa cornered me
just before lunch
and said you deserved
someone adventurous.
Dont listen to her
poisonous bullshit.
I told her you deserved love
and thats what I gave you.
And thats certainly true.
So why worry?
Because I want to keep you.
Were in a competition,
then, darling,
because I want to do
my damnedest to keep you.
Good.
Our bed is for pleasure.
My utmost concern
is to please you...
and to find my
pleasure with you.
There are some adventures
Id be willing to explore,
if you felt the same way.
But you dont have to worry that
Ill abandon you if you say no.
You can always say no.
Understand?
Yes.
Good.
Do you still feel shy?
No.
But Im wondering...
what kind of sexual adventures
do you have in mind?
Ill show you.

[gasps]
[moans]
[shivers]
[knocking]
Ah!
[shrieks]
No, no!
- Stop!
- Come here.
Stop!
Ill teach you something.
Come here!
[shrieks]
[snoring]

Your sister sent me an e-mail.
Shh.
Quiet, Im trying to kiss you.
This is important.
Rachel and Aaron want us
to light a candle in Assisi.
They want us to pray
that theyll have a baby.
I cant bear to be
the one standing
between you and your dreams.
Darling, nothing could
be further from my mind.
We can talk about
the future and make plans
without changing our time line.
Ahem.
Ive asked John Green
to send Christa
a cease and desist letter.
The conference went
better than expected.
Perhaps the slander isnt
as worrisome as we thought.
Slander is always worrisome.

Oh, damn it.
[knocking]
Miss Peterson.
I hate to trouble you,
Professor Barini,
but I need to speak to you
about Professor Pacciani.