Seconds (1966) Movie Script
Attention, please.
- Mr. Hamilton?
- Yes?
Scarsdale is next.
Good day?
- You?
- Very productive.
Got the roses out in back all trimmed.
Oh, letter this morning from Sally.
Sam's finished internship.
Starts practice next week.
Well, he should specialize.
That's the only thing now.
Maybe he just wants to
get the feel of things.
Our little girl's done all right.
Something wrong?
That phone call last night?
What about it?
I heard you pacing around in the
study afterwards till almost 2:00.
Just a crazy prank. Look,
Emily, it was nothing.
Art? It's me again.
Arthur?
Look, I don't know who you are, but...
- Charlie Evans!
- Stop saying that.
Charlie Evans is dead. Now
I want you to stop this...
or I'll be forced to call the police.
There are two trophies
on the fireplace...
near the tennis team picture.
Pick up the phone and walk over to them.
Go ahead. You know the cord will reach.
- Are you there?
- Yes.
In the picture, you
and I are standing...
with our arms around
each other's shoulder.
We're both wearing the
same kind of wristwatch.
Remember, we gave them to each other
after winning the doubles at Princeton?
Yes.
Okay. Take the doubles trophy there...
and turn it over.
One edge of the felt
is loose. Pull it back.
You scratched it there, down in the
locker room after we won the finals.
Remember?
With your belt buckle.
L...
I had forgotten.
I didn't.
It can't be you.
Okay, now. Listen very carefully.
- Did you get the address today?
- Yes.
Good.
You're to use the name Wilson.
You can't be Charlie.
You just don't come back.
I'm alive!
More alive than I've
been in the past 25 years.
You've got to come tomorrow.
Listen. If you don't show up, that's it.
Think, for Pete's sake.
What have you got now? What?
I don't know.
Tomorrow. Just past noon.
Remember, use the name Wilson.
L... don't know.
I won't call again, buddy.
Is it that call again?
Stop cross-examining me
every time the phone rings.
Understand?
Perfectly.
I'm sorry.
Excuse me.
You're excused.
Any fever?
No. Just old faithful.
Make an appointment to
see Dr. Hogan tomorrow.
I will.
Promise?
Promise. Thank you.
Therefore...
in view of the differential...
between your present equity...
Between your present equity
and the amount necessary...
for capitalization...
we cannot extend the loan you require.
Should your equity...
Where?
"Should your equity. "
Should your equity increase,
do not hesitate to call on us...
for a personal reappraisal,
et cetera, et cetera.
Standard closing.
Yes, sir.
My name is Wilson.
I was told to...
I was told to come here.
Look, is this the place, or isn't it?
They aren't here anymore.
I got it wrote down.
Thank you.
Move it! Let's go!
Let's go, you bunch of
idiots. Get that beef cut down.
Damn! Get that truck going and
get the meat the hell out of here!
What are you gonna do, take all day?
Don't let those hooks
fall off! Let's move it.
Okay, Johnny, get us
another truck up here.
Tighten up with it.
Ah, Mr. Wilson.
Let's go on the truck with it.
Surely this isn't...
No, sir. Come with me.
Let's go, Frank! Move that truck off!
Come on! Let's hook it off! Hook off!
Don't just stand there. Move
that beef off the line! Let's go!
What are you, a bunch of jerks?
Come on! Go! Go!
Come on. Cut it down.
Coming in! Coming in!
All right, come on. Move!
Keep moving that beef up.
Cut it down. Let's go.
Would you step in, please, sir?
I'd much prefer to ride in
front, if you don't mind.
I'm sorry, sir. The customers
are asked to ride in the back.
Your hat, sir. It's only a short ride.
Thank you.
We're here, sir.
Would you take the
elevator to your left, sir?
Ah, Mr. Wilson. Will you come this way?
Yes.
There will be a short delay. Perhaps
you'd like some tea and a sandwich.
- Thank you.
- Quite all right.
Make yourself comfortable.
Here we go.
Pardon me.
Could you tell me the
way out of this building?
Excuse me.
I was wondering if you could...
Excuse me. I'm trying to find...
Excuse me. I'm trying to find
my way out of the building.
I have a gentleman here who
wishes to leave the building.
That would be Mr. Wilson. Would you
have him return to Mr. Ruby's office?
Mr. Ruby is waiting for him there.
They want you at the end
of the corridor again.
Yes. All right.
Thank you.
Ah, there you are, Mr. Wilson.
Come in. Please.
Would you close the door?
Please, sit down.
My name is Ruby.
I've been assigned to go over the
circumstances of your death with you.
- What?
- I know this seems strange to you.
That's why I'm here. You
probably have a lot of questions.
Of course, the subject might appear
indelicate, but most of our clients...
Get this straight. I am not a client.
Oh, precisely, Mr. Wilson.
You are not a client yet.
Let me start by explaining
the cost factor involved.
To begin with...
the procedure is a rather complex one.
Seems to be your supper.
The chicken looks delicious.
No, thank you.
As I was saying, the cost runs
in the neighborhood of $30,000.
I know this seems rather
high, but in addition to...
the rather extensive
cosmetic renovation...
by way of plastic surgery for you...
CPS has to provide a fresh corpse...
that perfectly matches...
your physical dimensions
and medical specifications.
CPS?
Cadaver Procurement Section.
Sure you don't want this chicken?
Absolutely sure.
Oh, pity.
The next step...
is the carefully planned obliteration...
of identifiable portions
of the cadaver...
before it is found.
Features, dental structure.
Fingerprints. We can't
leave anything to chance.
No, I guess not.
Would you mind if...
Please.
Thank you.
Now, there is a problem that the
circumstances of your death...
must be simple.
A simple accident, strangely
enough, is costly, Mr. Wilson.
The trick lies in obliterating
just so much and no more, so that...
an identification still
can be made based on...
as I say, general dimensions...
plus a credible sequence of events.
Witnesses, et cetera.
The whole thing must be
very carefully staged.
We guarantee a death of this kind.
Excuse me. Delicious! They
have a wonderful way...
of baking cheese on it so
that it gets very crispy.
Now, there are any number of
ways you can be found. Excuse me.
I mean, your body can be found.
The victim of some kind
of machinery, an explosion.
A hunting misadventure.
Oh, but I think these are
somewhat too gross for you.
I had thought perhaps a hotel room fire.
Would you like me to
outline the circumstances?
No, thank you.
Oh, good. I was hoping you would agree.
No! I mean, I can't be sure.
Oh, of course.
We can't expect you
to decide all at once.
Think it over. There's so much
else to be done, Mr. Wilson...
but if I may say so...
death selection may be the most
important decision in your life.
Here are the trust instruments.
Mr. Joliffe, Mr. Brown.
My colleagues.
Now, this is your revised will...
drawn in accordance with the
requirements of the trust.
They're all predated, of
course, to save you the trouble.
It's standard procedure.
Effective at the time of your death...
the trust provides for
very liberal settlements...
on your wife and daughter...
and more than sufficient funds...
for your financial needs
in your new identity...
from sums assigned to
us as your trustees.
Insurance policies...
annuities...
real estate.
If you'll sign right here.
The staging here is rather
authentic, you'll see.
Of course, the drug made it
easier to manipulate you...
into the proper positions and attitudes.
Rest easy, Mr. Wilson.
You did not ravage our girl.
Of course, the photography
is not too professional...
but I think it's clear enough.
- So now it's...
- I have a message from Charlie.
He wanted me to tell you
that rebirth is painful.
You were going to say...
"So now it's blackmail," eh, Mr. Wilson?
- What would you call it?
- Just kind of insurance.
Isn't it easier to go forward
when you know you can't go back?
But you knew that, didn't you?
The minute you hung up on
Charlie after that first call.
Ah, sure you did.
You're saying...
I can never go back?
Fact is, you really
don't want to go back.
Sakes, boy, you owe yourself this thing.
Rebirth. Life again.
Begin again, all new, all different.
The way you always wanted it.
You've got another chance.
Heck, nobody's gonna miss you, are they?
- My wife.
- What are you to her now?
- We get along.
- What does that mean?
There's my daughter.
We don't see much of her, actually.
She lives out west with her husband.
She writes now and then...
to let us...
What are you to her now?
Excuse an old fool prying, son...
but what does it all mean?
It can't mean anything now, anymore.
There's nothing anymore, is there?
Anything at all?
I expect to be president
of the bank before too long.
And I have my boat in the summer.
We have friends.
Anything at all?
Guess I...
never thought much about it before.
I leave Emily pretty much
alone to do what she...
We get along, as I said.
We hardly ever quarrel.
Not that that's any...
measure of our lives.
Frankly...
during the last few years, we...
hardly ever...
ever...
I... I don't know why
I'm telling you this.
Because you want to. Go on.
Ever...
ever...
show much affection.
But as I said...
Boat.
And...
So this is what happens
to the dreams of youth.
Go on, son. Let it out.
Nothing to be ashamed of.
Let it out.
Time for a change.
Now, look. They'll both
be well taken care of.
They don't need you,
and you don't need them.
You just can't help each other anymore.
Now, look, son. You know
what I'm saying is true.
There's nothing anymore.
What you need now is a good rest.
A few things to be worked
out in the morning...
but my boys will clear those
up, and you needn't worry none.
Your boys?
You're the head of it all?
There never was a struggle in the
soul of a good man that wasn't hard.
My papa told me that...
and it's sure enough true.
Believe me, son. I know.
I believe you.
That's fine.
You know, Mr. Wilson, you represent
something of a milestone around here.
When the bandages are removed...
I think you'll be more than pleased.
In fact, I expect you to be prancing
around here like a stud bull.
Now, it's gonna take a
while, so try to be patient...
until we get you ready
for the world again.
Now, don't do that!
You can't talk because we've
extracted all your teeth...
and given you a complete
vocal cord resection.
Give the tissues time to pull together.
Now, you got a new
set of permanent teeth.
In a week, you won't know
the difference. Thank you.
That's what hurts the most right now.
Everything's different.
When the first healing's over, we'll
start conditioning for muscle tone.
Yes, yes. Those too.
Fingerprints.
Even your signature.
Little thing we did with the
tensor ligaments of the hand.
The orbicularis oris started to sag,
so we tightened them with ligatures.
Yeah.
Then we worked on the
mandible to square up the bone.
Well, I never.
Holy mackerel, I don't
know how you boys do it.
Doc, it's a masterpiece.
Good work.
Easy does it. You'll be all right, son.
Your scars and hematomas will
disappear in a couple of weeks.
After several months of
physical conditioning...
the process will be complete.
My name is Davalo. I'm
your guidance advisor.
This is about your future career.
I'm afraid I haven't
thought very much about that.
Oh, yes, you have, sir. Permit me.
I want a ball, a big red one.
Whoops.
I'm afraid we picked this
up a little too early.
Sit down. We recorded
these regressions...
under pentothal and
caffeine sodium benzoate.
At first, there's always
a touch of the infantile...
but later on, we progress
to a more mature...
expressional infrastructure.
Ah, here we are.
What would you like to do most of all?
Of anything in the whole world?
I'd like to be a tennis pro, I guess.
Yes. That's what I'd like best of all.
And suppose you couldn't be?
What else would you choose?
- I guess I'd like to paint stuff.
- Pictures?
Pictures and things.
Well, I think the creative wish
pattern is pretty self-evident.
You mean, I... I ought to be a painter?
Exactly!
You see, painting allows you
a basic creative outlet...
as well as an environment in which
these sublimations will have free vent.
Now, let's take a look at the
program we've worked out for you.
Certificates of study.
Abroad.
Notices of first six one-man shows.
Your pictures are
realistic in treatment...
but deal with poetic
imagery in choice of subject.
Not that I pretend to
be a critic of painting.
These diplomas...
from reputable universities...
They can't be forged.
I assure you, every item
is bona fide and valid.
How could I even approach
such a professional level?
Simple. You are already established
in a position of some dignity.
Nothing conspicuous. Just a solid,
mildly successful sort of thing.
You will be supplied with
fresh paintings periodically.
In time, you'll perfect your own style.
Surreal, primitive,
impressionistic, whatever.
It will be a transition
from this present work.
You see, you don't have
to prove anything anymore.
You are accepted.
You will be in your own new dimension.
You're a bachelor.
Birth certificate. The only son...
of deceased parents, and so forth.
In short...
you are alone in the world...
absolved of all responsibility...
except to your own interest.
Isn't that marvelous?
Your studio is in Malibu, California.
Quite luxurious, very private.
You'll make your own
adjustment in your own way...
in your own time.
Oh, you'll be self-conscious at first.
Don't worry.
It will wear off. And
remember, you've got...
what almost every middle-aged
man in America would like to have:
Freedom.
Real freedom.
Ah, it's been a pleasure.
Pillow, Mr. Wilson?
Yes, thank you.
Tony!
Hey there, you old rascal!
Slow down. Where's the fire?
Can't wait to get back to
them pretty little models, huh?
Uh-oh, I am late.
If I didn't have to catch a plane,
I'd make you buy me a drink, by God!
See you soon. Got to run.
Welcome home, Mr. Wilson.
My name is John. I've
been assigned to help you.
It's very nice.
I think you'll be
quite comfortable, sir.
Do you like your studio?
- Yes.
- Perhaps you'd like to freshen up...
and have a drink.
Afterward, I'll try to clear up any
point on which you may have curiosity.
The bath is through here.
I'll unpack these for you later.
Fine.
How long will you be here?
John, sir. For as long as you need me.
The company is fully aware that
you may have problems at first...
and will spare no effort
to help you solve them.
Thank you.
Yes, sir.
Yes, sir?
I had a curious
experience at the airport.
What was that?
Well, I was accosted by a
man who called me by name.
He seemed to know me, and I'm
certain I've never met him.
I suppose it was a mistake on his part.
So it would appear, sir.
What kind of people live here?
Professionals. Some in
business. Some write.
No artists, I hope.
I think you are the only one, sir.
If I may suggest, sir...
perhaps you'd like to give a cocktail
party for the immediate neighbors.
Oh, well, I...
I'd better get myself
used to things first.
Later on, maybe.
As you wish, sir.
That's very good, sir.
Thank you.
Wouldn't you enjoy meeting
some of the people here, sir?
I told you I'm not ready yet, John.
I'll do this in my own
way and in my own time.
Of course, sir.
Hello.
Hey, wait.
I'm sorry about back there.
How about if we try it again?
Hello.
I'm Nora Marcus.
I'm...
Tony Wilson.
- Walk?
- Sure.
Ocean, I love you! You're beautiful!
Beautiful!
All that power, and
she's got all the answers.
Got a question!
What did you ask?
Oh, a tough one.
"Who and what is Tony Wilson?"
And what did it say?
It told me to mind my own business.
That was my life. Two
boys, ages ten and twelve.
Successful and indulgent husband.
A beautiful house, complete
with microwave oven...
intercom, station wagon, et cetera.
Ad infinitum.
And?
I made myself a cup of
coffee, dressed and left.
That was four years ago.
You never went back.
I've seen them from time to time, but...
it's different now.
Maybe because I'm different.
I don't expect you to understand.
I think I do.
You?
An artist?
Why should you understand?
You spent your whole life being.
You don't know anything
about me, really.
Yes, I do.
It's all right there in your face.
What is?
Now you're fishing.
No. Seriously.
This may hurt a little.
I agreed to take my chances.
Madam Marcus will read the leaves.
What kind of a man is he?
There's grace in the line and color...
but it doesn't emerge pure.
It pushes at the edge of
something still tentative.
Unresolved. As if...
somewhere in the man,
there is still a key...
unturned.
That's quite an analysis.
Not really.
When you come to think of it, it
sort of fits everybody, doesn't it?
It's very nice here.
The good things always
happen with the rain.
When will I see you again?
I'm going to Santa Barbara tomorrow.
There's a kind of gathering.
Can I come?
It's going to be very wild.
Maybe that's part of turning the key.
To the god Pan. To
the gods of this place.
Drink! See ye, ye gods.
March down upon this
procession and bless us all!
The Queen of the Wine!
Wine!
Wine! The Queen of the Wine!
Stomp those grapes!
Stomp those grapes!
Stomp those grapes!
Now the season ends, and the
old vines are buried deep.
Now, in dying, Bacchus
gives us his blood...
so we may be born again...
laughing, laughing.
- Come dance with me.
- Nora, I don't know these people.
- I don't think I...
- Don't think me, Tony. Don't.
I came here to feel... to be.
I'm dying, and that's the world...
the whole bloody world!
It's not a question of
dancing. I'm not part of this!
I'm dying, and that's the world!
The whole bloody...
Don't!
Come back here! Get out of there!
Wait a minute. Get your hands
off me. Nora, get out of there!
No, please don't!
Stomp those grapes!
Please!
Kiss me!
Yes. Yes!
- Thank you, John.
- Oh, Mr. Wilson.
- May I present Mr. And Mrs. Lloyd?
- How do you do?
- This is your host.
- Pleasure.
- Mr. Filter.
- Pleased to meet you.
- How do you do?
- Hello.
You have seen Tony's
paintings, haven't you?
Cheers.
- May I present Mr. Mayberry?
- Nice to meet you.
Peekaboo.
- Honey, please slow down.
- Never!
Never!
Come. I'm taking you to ze Casbah.
As soon as these people
leave, I'm going to attack you.
Why, Mr. Wilson, you dirty old man.
I really am.
I want you to know that.
I'm counting on it.
Miss Marcus, you shock me.
- Please, ease up.
- Why?
Because it's not like you.
Oh, I know that.
I'm sorry.
Guess I just needed the added strength.
Well, that's silly.
They're all wonderful people.
Just give them a chance.
- Okay.
- Give yourself a chance.
- Okay.
- Yes?
I promise. No more.
And I promise to behave myself.
I'm sorry. Forgive me.
I've embarrassed you.
No, you haven't.
I think I love you.
You're beautiful!
- You're an ocean.
- Let's go back.
The sooner we get rid of those
people, the sooner we can be together.
- I'm going to hold you to your promise.
- Oh, God. You're evil.
- Yes!
- God, how evil you are.
Henry Bushbain, my husband.
- Nice to know you.
- How do you do?
- You're staggering.
- Hank, that's a dirty lie.
Watch out for this
character. He's a lawyer.
Harvard, I want you to know.
- Really? That's a coincidence.
- Hold it!
- Thank you.
- Me too. In fact, me too twice.
Hollow leg again?
Will you listen? At home, he makes
me look like a veritable piker.
Henry, you sneaking two-face, you.
- Private joke?
- No. I'm sorry.
Come on, Nora. Let's
ditch these two sots.
Help! Rape!
- Wait a minute. You can't do that.
- There's no way you'll get away.
You're going to stay right here.
That's my woman. Hey!
That's very funny.
What's funny?
Is he really a sneaky two-face?
Yes.
There's such a religious climate
out here. Don't you agree?
- I love the climate.
- Yes.
I belong to a special kind of group.
Nothing subversive, I hope.
Oh, good heavens, no! We change sects.
I beg your pardon?
Oh, no, no. Good heavens.
You thought I meant...
"Sects. "
S-E-C-T-S.
- Oh, sects!
- Yes.
Well, thank God!
We change every month.
Right now, we're in Aztec.
Huitzilopochtli, Quetzalcoatl,
virgin sacrifice and all.
I just love your paintings.
How do you ever do it?
Well, you see...
It all began with a big, red ball.
You see...
I paint naked, Mrs. Filter.
- The only way to get at the truth.
- How interesting.
Of course. In this way, my
inner essence is revealed...
and I am presented to the canvas...
in direct relationship
in my primeval state...
without its sociological trappings.
- Watch it!
- Oh, look!
- Take it easy!
- I'm sorry.
- I'm terribly sorry.
- You all right, hon?
- That will never come out.
- I'm terribly sorry.
- Excuse me.
- Look at this mess!
- It's all right, honey.
- May I?
I'm sure it won't stain.
It will all come out.
Hey! You two heard the one about...
Yes, we have.
Well, I'm sorry. I
didn't mean to interrupt.
Seems like I'm doing
everything wrong lately.
Now, don't pout. Mama will
make everything better, okay?
Perfect. Say...
I was thinking about
school just before...
and your house at Harvard wasn't,
by any chance, Adams, was it?
- No, not exactly.
- Is anybody hungry?
Yeah, I am.
Say, Hank...
Hey, Hank, here.
Actually, I'm not a
Harvard alumnus either.
That is, I used to be. I'm not anymore.
- Did you resign or something?
- Take it easy.
That's priceless!
No! I did go to Harvard, you see...
and I was an alumnus...
but that was before I became a
painter, and now I'm not anymore.
Come on!
Realized hopes we're dashing
Into blue obscurity
Resistless, our team sweeps goalward
With the fury of ze blast
We'll fight for the name of Harvard
Till the last white line is
Passed
That's absolutely wonderful!
Truth is, I just stopped
being an alumnus. Simple.
- Wilson!
- What?
You and I must play golf sometime.
Golf?
Antiochus Wilson playing golf?
Now...
Arthur Hamilton...
Looks as if our host is in orbit.
Wait a minute, you guys.
- Put him down.
- Wait a minute.
- Turn him around.
- Hey, listen.
I got a nephew right
in Harvard right now!
- You don't have a nephew.
- What?
I don't have a nephew.
Okay, correct.
I don't have a nephew...
but he's there, all right.
He's there, all right.
My daughter...
she's married to a doctor...
and maybe by this
time, I'm a grandfather.
Believe me.
They'll never drag it out of me.
I'll stand right here on
my constitutional rights.
I'm not a grandfather.
L...
Why are you all staring at me like that?
Why are they staring at me like that?
They know.
They know what?
They're like you.
What do you mean?
Reborns.
Shut up!
Shut up, damn you! Just who the hell...
do you think you are?
My God!
Save me. Please!
- Yes?
- It's me, buddy. Now listen to me.
- Charlie?
- Look, Arthur...
- Listen to me!
- Is it really you?
Of course it is. Do you realize how
dangerous it is, what you're doing?
I've got to get out of here. You
don't know what they're doing to me.
Come on, buddy. Calm down.
- I've got to see you.
- That's impossible right now.
- Why?
- It just is!
You've got to get ahold of
yourself, fast. You'll be sorry...
- You know what they did?
- I can't explain, but...
There's this reborn, Nora.
She's not one of them.
She works for the company.
- What?
- That's right.
An employee.
But I...
Oh, no. She was so...
Why, Charlie? Why?
Your adjustment was bound to be
difficult in the first stages.
Don't you see? The
company simply provided...
An employee.
It means a lot to me
personally. I can't explain...
but we're sort of tied
together, you and me.
We're so close. Don't throw it away.
- How?
- Trust, please!
Promise to stay put until
we can get someone to you.
You've got to have help right
now. Please, will you stay there?
Please!
- Yes?
- I'm Mr. Wilson.
Come in, please. I'll tell
Mrs. Hamilton you're here.
I'm so glad you were able to come.
- Thank you. I didn't mean to barge in.
- Not at all.
It was very kind of you.
I must have sounded strange
over the phone, but...
you see, Arthur never mentioned...
I just met your late husband
last year, shortly before...
Yes. Please, sit down.
Mrs. Hamilton, I'm a
painter... an artist, actually.
I admire your husband's watercolors.
Really?
Not that he was professional,
but he did have something.
He mentioned some paintings in
a cupboard out in the garage.
That's the reason I...
Well, I was wondering if I
might pick one up as a memento.
I'm sorry, but the garage
has been cleaned out.
You threw them away.
No, not exactly.
You have a lovely place here.
Oh, thank you.
- This was the study, wasn't it?
- Yes, it was...
How did you know?
Your husband talked a
lot about this house...
about his family.
I'm sorry.
I didn't mean to stir
up painful memories.
No, it's not that. It's just that...
I never knew Arthur
to do that very much.
How do you mean?
- I don't want to bore you.
- No, please.
I'd like to know.
You see, I knew him
only for a short while.
I'd really like to know.
It's not just curiosity.
We shared an interest in art.
The last time I saw
him, I did some sketches.
Now I'd like to do a painting...
but all I have are lines... a face.
Posthumous portraiture?
I'm not joking.
No, of course you're not. I'm sorry.
You've set me quite a task.
He was a quiet man. The thing I most
remember him for were his silences.
It was...
as if he were always listening
to something inside...
some voice.
He never talked about it,
so I never knew what it was.
He was a good man...
but he lived as if he
were a stranger here.
He never let anything touch him.
He became absorbed in
things, his job mostly.
He worked hard.
He became more detached and...
Always a look around
his eyes as if he were...
trying to say something.
I don't know what.
Protest against what he'd
surrendered his life to?
I never knew what he wanted...
and I don't think he ever knew.
He fought so hard for what
he'd been taught to want...
and when he got it, he just
grew more and more confused.
The silences grew longer.
We never talked about it.
We lived our lives in a polite...
celibate truce.
Arthur had been dead
a long, long time...
before they found him
in that hotel room.
Well, I guess I can't
tell you much more. Enough?
Yes, it is.
I really should be going.
I hope I've been some help.
Yes, you have.
Very much.
You said that you wanted a memento.
It won't be a painting, I'm
afraid, but it's all I have.
I'm sorry, Mr. Wilson.
It doesn't matter.
- I want to go back.
- Of course, sir.
No, I don't mean to California.
To the company.
Start again, all over.
Antiochus Wilson can die, can't he?
The company.
Is it possible?
I think so, sir.
Begin again.
Quite honestly...
I'm not the least bit sorry...
because there were certain
mistakes made in my case...
Of course, but before we go
into all that, let me ask you...
whether you can recommend
and sponsor a new client.
What?
An acquaintance outside...
whom you feel would benefit
by the company's services.
You were sponsored yourself, you know.
Oh, yes, of course.
A business associate, perhaps.
Someone down the street.
You don't have to be intimately
acquainted with a man...
to realize he'd be receptive to
the sort of opportunity we offer.
I'm sorry. Right now,
I just can't seem to...
What I mean is, I'd
like to think about it.
That's all we ask.
As you can imagine, our business
is acquired through present clients.
It's a word-of-mouth
operation.
You don't suppose we can advertise
in magazines and newspapers.
No, of course not.
I think you'll come up with something.
Hold it. Thank you.
Hold your arm up, please.
- Excuse me. I don't understand.
- That's it.
- Is all this really necessary?
- 131/2. Profile.
- Turn sideways.
- Is this necessary for...
Hold it.
That's it. Back view.
- What is this, preliminary for surgery?
- Certainly.
Ayear's gone by. A lot happens
to the human body in a year.
This one is yours, sir.
Hello, Arthur.
- I don't believe I know you.
- It's me, buddy.
You're Charlie?
Guess I am, old buddy.
What are you doing here?
Same as yourself. Waiting.
What's the matter?
Oh, nothing.
It's just that it's hard
to recognize somebody...
and not recognize them at the same time.
How long have you been here?
A while.
When you phoned me, you were here?
Even the first time?
But you sounded...
like the whole thing was
something tremendous...
this rebirth, everything...
even when you hadn't made a go of it!
I thought you'd have a better chance.
Good God! How long does a man
have to wait to get into surgery?
Not long, usually.
I had to stay around and
telephone you, if necessary...
through your first
adjustment, but now...
That's what you meant about
our being tied together.
I couldn't help it.
I had to find out where I went wrong.
The years I've spent...
trying to get all the things
I was told were important...
that I was supposed to want!
Things!
Not people...
or meaning.
Just things.
And California was the same.
They made the same decisions
for me all over again...
and they were the same things, really.
It's going to be different from now on.
A new face and a name.
I'll do the rest.
I know it's going to be different.
I suppose you do too.
Good morning, gentlemen.
Mr. Carlson, please.
Charlie. You?
- Art, I...
- Mr. Carlson, please.
I have the feeling you're
going to make it this time.
I'm sorry to disappoint the rest of you.
Perhaps tomorrow.
You don't seem to
understand our problem.
- I understand it perfectly.
- But you're not cooperating.
I've told you over and over
again, I cannot think of anyone.
- I can't believe that.
- I've been shuffled around long enough.
I think it's time I
had the opportunity...
to start living some kind
of meaningful existence.
If I did sponsor someone, wouldn't
that delay my trip to surgery...
in the event that I were needed from
time to time, to, say, advise him?
No, that's not likely, not if
the selection is a good one.
I'm sorry. I don't seem to be
able to think of a single soul.
- You mean you deliberately won't.
- Have it your way.
Very well.
That will be all. You can
go back to the day room.
Processing, please.
This is Ruby. On Wilson, 722...
I think we can go to the next stage now.
Hello, son.
Oh, sir, I...
You know, I sure hoped you'd make
it, find your dream come true.
- What?
- I said I sure hoped you'd make it...
find your dream come true.
I guess...
I guess I never had a dream.
Maybe that's it. That
sure might have been it.
If I did have one...
it certainly wasn't Antiochus Wilson.
This time...
I've got to be allowed,
sir, to make my own decision.
You know, son...
when I began this business, I
was a young man with an idea.
I wasn't aiming to make a lot
of money, helping others...
helping them to find a little happiness.
Heck, not just the rich.
I thought eventually...
I got tremendous comfort in the
thought that, in my small way...
I was waging a battle
against human misery...
and I was too.
Except we do have a high
percentage of failures.
I guess that's to be expected...
but it hurts me.
Some reborns make a go of it.
We're always working to find
ways to improve the system.
Yeah, we make mistakes.
The fact is, when our clients
first started coming back here...
I wanted to chuck the
whole thing, but I couldn't.
The organization was pretty big by then.
Now...
board of directors, on
a profit-sharing basis.
All those people.
You've no idea what a financial
responsibility it turned into.
Heck, we make mistakes,
but we admit them...
and go forward.
I won't see it in my lifetime...
but some of the younger
execs like Ruby may.
You can call it wishful thinking, son...
but life is built on wishing.
You've got to just keep
plugging away at them.
You can't give up...
and you can't let the
mistakes jeopardize the dream.
Well, here's your transportation.
- What?
- Surgery, sir.
- But I've got to talk to you.
- We're on a tight schedule. Please.
Why, I didn't expect so soon.
It's efficiency. You're
lucky we got a match so quick.
Hop aboard, son. Up there.
The doctors are waiting.
That's just so you won't fall off.
But there's things we have to
talk about. I mean, my identity...
We will later.
Just relax, son. Everything's
going to be just fine.
The thing about doing it on my own.
You see, it's so important... choice.
You've got to change.
We have to talk about it.
We will. I'll look into it personally.
Remember, son. We've got to
keep plugging away at the dream.
The mistakes teach us how. It
wasn't wasted. Remember that.
My name is Dr. Morris, sir.
According to our records, you were
reared in the Protestant faith.
Did you convert to any
other during your adjustment?
Good, good!
That is, good in the sense that
we have a certain definition.
I am not suggesting that
being a Protestant...
is any better than
being a Catholic or Jew.
As a matter of fact, I am qualified to
care for you in those faiths as well.
I was ordained in each...
a rabbi, priest and minister.
I admit it unusual,
maybe a bit advanced.
Wait a minute. What's happening?
Well, sir, when we have finished,
you'll go on to the next stage.
I don't mean that!
Ultimately, we'll be called
to face the Creator...
and render up our last account.
It happens to all of us.
That's no answer! What's
happening to me now?
Don't shout! Please!
"Blessed shalt thou be coming in...
and blessed shalt thou be in going out.
And He said, 'Thou
canst not see My face...
for no man can see Me and live. "'
"I am the Resurrection and the
Life. He that believeth in Me...
though he were dead, shall yet he live.
And a stranger shalt thou not oppress,
seeing ye yourselves were strangers. "
"He that loveth life shall lose it...
and he that hateth his life in this
world shall keep it unto life eternal.
Fear not thou them
which kill the body. "
"I am the door.
By Me, if any man enter
in, shall he be saved. "
God be with you, sir.
What's his data?
"Wilson, mesomorph, age
51, no current diseases.
Requisitioned from
day-room stock May 6.
Released for cadaver use
last night. CPS number 722.
Disposition: Death by
automobile accident...
caused by cerebral hemorrhage. "
All right. Acid etch.
Yes, sir.
- What's the solution strength?
- 5% at 10 cc's.
Timer.
Five minutes.
You were my best work.
I'm sorry it all has to end like this.
Set him up.
I think we'll put the hemorrhage
right under the left exoccipital...
in the lingual gyrus.
Put that light over here.
Good.
All right.
Relax, old friend.
Cranial drill.
- Mr. Hamilton?
- Yes?
Scarsdale is next.
Good day?
- You?
- Very productive.
Got the roses out in back all trimmed.
Oh, letter this morning from Sally.
Sam's finished internship.
Starts practice next week.
Well, he should specialize.
That's the only thing now.
Maybe he just wants to
get the feel of things.
Our little girl's done all right.
Something wrong?
That phone call last night?
What about it?
I heard you pacing around in the
study afterwards till almost 2:00.
Just a crazy prank. Look,
Emily, it was nothing.
Art? It's me again.
Arthur?
Look, I don't know who you are, but...
- Charlie Evans!
- Stop saying that.
Charlie Evans is dead. Now
I want you to stop this...
or I'll be forced to call the police.
There are two trophies
on the fireplace...
near the tennis team picture.
Pick up the phone and walk over to them.
Go ahead. You know the cord will reach.
- Are you there?
- Yes.
In the picture, you
and I are standing...
with our arms around
each other's shoulder.
We're both wearing the
same kind of wristwatch.
Remember, we gave them to each other
after winning the doubles at Princeton?
Yes.
Okay. Take the doubles trophy there...
and turn it over.
One edge of the felt
is loose. Pull it back.
You scratched it there, down in the
locker room after we won the finals.
Remember?
With your belt buckle.
L...
I had forgotten.
I didn't.
It can't be you.
Okay, now. Listen very carefully.
- Did you get the address today?
- Yes.
Good.
You're to use the name Wilson.
You can't be Charlie.
You just don't come back.
I'm alive!
More alive than I've
been in the past 25 years.
You've got to come tomorrow.
Listen. If you don't show up, that's it.
Think, for Pete's sake.
What have you got now? What?
I don't know.
Tomorrow. Just past noon.
Remember, use the name Wilson.
L... don't know.
I won't call again, buddy.
Is it that call again?
Stop cross-examining me
every time the phone rings.
Understand?
Perfectly.
I'm sorry.
Excuse me.
You're excused.
Any fever?
No. Just old faithful.
Make an appointment to
see Dr. Hogan tomorrow.
I will.
Promise?
Promise. Thank you.
Therefore...
in view of the differential...
between your present equity...
Between your present equity
and the amount necessary...
for capitalization...
we cannot extend the loan you require.
Should your equity...
Where?
"Should your equity. "
Should your equity increase,
do not hesitate to call on us...
for a personal reappraisal,
et cetera, et cetera.
Standard closing.
Yes, sir.
My name is Wilson.
I was told to...
I was told to come here.
Look, is this the place, or isn't it?
They aren't here anymore.
I got it wrote down.
Thank you.
Move it! Let's go!
Let's go, you bunch of
idiots. Get that beef cut down.
Damn! Get that truck going and
get the meat the hell out of here!
What are you gonna do, take all day?
Don't let those hooks
fall off! Let's move it.
Okay, Johnny, get us
another truck up here.
Tighten up with it.
Ah, Mr. Wilson.
Let's go on the truck with it.
Surely this isn't...
No, sir. Come with me.
Let's go, Frank! Move that truck off!
Come on! Let's hook it off! Hook off!
Don't just stand there. Move
that beef off the line! Let's go!
What are you, a bunch of jerks?
Come on! Go! Go!
Come on. Cut it down.
Coming in! Coming in!
All right, come on. Move!
Keep moving that beef up.
Cut it down. Let's go.
Would you step in, please, sir?
I'd much prefer to ride in
front, if you don't mind.
I'm sorry, sir. The customers
are asked to ride in the back.
Your hat, sir. It's only a short ride.
Thank you.
We're here, sir.
Would you take the
elevator to your left, sir?
Ah, Mr. Wilson. Will you come this way?
Yes.
There will be a short delay. Perhaps
you'd like some tea and a sandwich.
- Thank you.
- Quite all right.
Make yourself comfortable.
Here we go.
Pardon me.
Could you tell me the
way out of this building?
Excuse me.
I was wondering if you could...
Excuse me. I'm trying to find...
Excuse me. I'm trying to find
my way out of the building.
I have a gentleman here who
wishes to leave the building.
That would be Mr. Wilson. Would you
have him return to Mr. Ruby's office?
Mr. Ruby is waiting for him there.
They want you at the end
of the corridor again.
Yes. All right.
Thank you.
Ah, there you are, Mr. Wilson.
Come in. Please.
Would you close the door?
Please, sit down.
My name is Ruby.
I've been assigned to go over the
circumstances of your death with you.
- What?
- I know this seems strange to you.
That's why I'm here. You
probably have a lot of questions.
Of course, the subject might appear
indelicate, but most of our clients...
Get this straight. I am not a client.
Oh, precisely, Mr. Wilson.
You are not a client yet.
Let me start by explaining
the cost factor involved.
To begin with...
the procedure is a rather complex one.
Seems to be your supper.
The chicken looks delicious.
No, thank you.
As I was saying, the cost runs
in the neighborhood of $30,000.
I know this seems rather
high, but in addition to...
the rather extensive
cosmetic renovation...
by way of plastic surgery for you...
CPS has to provide a fresh corpse...
that perfectly matches...
your physical dimensions
and medical specifications.
CPS?
Cadaver Procurement Section.
Sure you don't want this chicken?
Absolutely sure.
Oh, pity.
The next step...
is the carefully planned obliteration...
of identifiable portions
of the cadaver...
before it is found.
Features, dental structure.
Fingerprints. We can't
leave anything to chance.
No, I guess not.
Would you mind if...
Please.
Thank you.
Now, there is a problem that the
circumstances of your death...
must be simple.
A simple accident, strangely
enough, is costly, Mr. Wilson.
The trick lies in obliterating
just so much and no more, so that...
an identification still
can be made based on...
as I say, general dimensions...
plus a credible sequence of events.
Witnesses, et cetera.
The whole thing must be
very carefully staged.
We guarantee a death of this kind.
Excuse me. Delicious! They
have a wonderful way...
of baking cheese on it so
that it gets very crispy.
Now, there are any number of
ways you can be found. Excuse me.
I mean, your body can be found.
The victim of some kind
of machinery, an explosion.
A hunting misadventure.
Oh, but I think these are
somewhat too gross for you.
I had thought perhaps a hotel room fire.
Would you like me to
outline the circumstances?
No, thank you.
Oh, good. I was hoping you would agree.
No! I mean, I can't be sure.
Oh, of course.
We can't expect you
to decide all at once.
Think it over. There's so much
else to be done, Mr. Wilson...
but if I may say so...
death selection may be the most
important decision in your life.
Here are the trust instruments.
Mr. Joliffe, Mr. Brown.
My colleagues.
Now, this is your revised will...
drawn in accordance with the
requirements of the trust.
They're all predated, of
course, to save you the trouble.
It's standard procedure.
Effective at the time of your death...
the trust provides for
very liberal settlements...
on your wife and daughter...
and more than sufficient funds...
for your financial needs
in your new identity...
from sums assigned to
us as your trustees.
Insurance policies...
annuities...
real estate.
If you'll sign right here.
The staging here is rather
authentic, you'll see.
Of course, the drug made it
easier to manipulate you...
into the proper positions and attitudes.
Rest easy, Mr. Wilson.
You did not ravage our girl.
Of course, the photography
is not too professional...
but I think it's clear enough.
- So now it's...
- I have a message from Charlie.
He wanted me to tell you
that rebirth is painful.
You were going to say...
"So now it's blackmail," eh, Mr. Wilson?
- What would you call it?
- Just kind of insurance.
Isn't it easier to go forward
when you know you can't go back?
But you knew that, didn't you?
The minute you hung up on
Charlie after that first call.
Ah, sure you did.
You're saying...
I can never go back?
Fact is, you really
don't want to go back.
Sakes, boy, you owe yourself this thing.
Rebirth. Life again.
Begin again, all new, all different.
The way you always wanted it.
You've got another chance.
Heck, nobody's gonna miss you, are they?
- My wife.
- What are you to her now?
- We get along.
- What does that mean?
There's my daughter.
We don't see much of her, actually.
She lives out west with her husband.
She writes now and then...
to let us...
What are you to her now?
Excuse an old fool prying, son...
but what does it all mean?
It can't mean anything now, anymore.
There's nothing anymore, is there?
Anything at all?
I expect to be president
of the bank before too long.
And I have my boat in the summer.
We have friends.
Anything at all?
Guess I...
never thought much about it before.
I leave Emily pretty much
alone to do what she...
We get along, as I said.
We hardly ever quarrel.
Not that that's any...
measure of our lives.
Frankly...
during the last few years, we...
hardly ever...
ever...
I... I don't know why
I'm telling you this.
Because you want to. Go on.
Ever...
ever...
show much affection.
But as I said...
Boat.
And...
So this is what happens
to the dreams of youth.
Go on, son. Let it out.
Nothing to be ashamed of.
Let it out.
Time for a change.
Now, look. They'll both
be well taken care of.
They don't need you,
and you don't need them.
You just can't help each other anymore.
Now, look, son. You know
what I'm saying is true.
There's nothing anymore.
What you need now is a good rest.
A few things to be worked
out in the morning...
but my boys will clear those
up, and you needn't worry none.
Your boys?
You're the head of it all?
There never was a struggle in the
soul of a good man that wasn't hard.
My papa told me that...
and it's sure enough true.
Believe me, son. I know.
I believe you.
That's fine.
You know, Mr. Wilson, you represent
something of a milestone around here.
When the bandages are removed...
I think you'll be more than pleased.
In fact, I expect you to be prancing
around here like a stud bull.
Now, it's gonna take a
while, so try to be patient...
until we get you ready
for the world again.
Now, don't do that!
You can't talk because we've
extracted all your teeth...
and given you a complete
vocal cord resection.
Give the tissues time to pull together.
Now, you got a new
set of permanent teeth.
In a week, you won't know
the difference. Thank you.
That's what hurts the most right now.
Everything's different.
When the first healing's over, we'll
start conditioning for muscle tone.
Yes, yes. Those too.
Fingerprints.
Even your signature.
Little thing we did with the
tensor ligaments of the hand.
The orbicularis oris started to sag,
so we tightened them with ligatures.
Yeah.
Then we worked on the
mandible to square up the bone.
Well, I never.
Holy mackerel, I don't
know how you boys do it.
Doc, it's a masterpiece.
Good work.
Easy does it. You'll be all right, son.
Your scars and hematomas will
disappear in a couple of weeks.
After several months of
physical conditioning...
the process will be complete.
My name is Davalo. I'm
your guidance advisor.
This is about your future career.
I'm afraid I haven't
thought very much about that.
Oh, yes, you have, sir. Permit me.
I want a ball, a big red one.
Whoops.
I'm afraid we picked this
up a little too early.
Sit down. We recorded
these regressions...
under pentothal and
caffeine sodium benzoate.
At first, there's always
a touch of the infantile...
but later on, we progress
to a more mature...
expressional infrastructure.
Ah, here we are.
What would you like to do most of all?
Of anything in the whole world?
I'd like to be a tennis pro, I guess.
Yes. That's what I'd like best of all.
And suppose you couldn't be?
What else would you choose?
- I guess I'd like to paint stuff.
- Pictures?
Pictures and things.
Well, I think the creative wish
pattern is pretty self-evident.
You mean, I... I ought to be a painter?
Exactly!
You see, painting allows you
a basic creative outlet...
as well as an environment in which
these sublimations will have free vent.
Now, let's take a look at the
program we've worked out for you.
Certificates of study.
Abroad.
Notices of first six one-man shows.
Your pictures are
realistic in treatment...
but deal with poetic
imagery in choice of subject.
Not that I pretend to
be a critic of painting.
These diplomas...
from reputable universities...
They can't be forged.
I assure you, every item
is bona fide and valid.
How could I even approach
such a professional level?
Simple. You are already established
in a position of some dignity.
Nothing conspicuous. Just a solid,
mildly successful sort of thing.
You will be supplied with
fresh paintings periodically.
In time, you'll perfect your own style.
Surreal, primitive,
impressionistic, whatever.
It will be a transition
from this present work.
You see, you don't have
to prove anything anymore.
You are accepted.
You will be in your own new dimension.
You're a bachelor.
Birth certificate. The only son...
of deceased parents, and so forth.
In short...
you are alone in the world...
absolved of all responsibility...
except to your own interest.
Isn't that marvelous?
Your studio is in Malibu, California.
Quite luxurious, very private.
You'll make your own
adjustment in your own way...
in your own time.
Oh, you'll be self-conscious at first.
Don't worry.
It will wear off. And
remember, you've got...
what almost every middle-aged
man in America would like to have:
Freedom.
Real freedom.
Ah, it's been a pleasure.
Pillow, Mr. Wilson?
Yes, thank you.
Tony!
Hey there, you old rascal!
Slow down. Where's the fire?
Can't wait to get back to
them pretty little models, huh?
Uh-oh, I am late.
If I didn't have to catch a plane,
I'd make you buy me a drink, by God!
See you soon. Got to run.
Welcome home, Mr. Wilson.
My name is John. I've
been assigned to help you.
It's very nice.
I think you'll be
quite comfortable, sir.
Do you like your studio?
- Yes.
- Perhaps you'd like to freshen up...
and have a drink.
Afterward, I'll try to clear up any
point on which you may have curiosity.
The bath is through here.
I'll unpack these for you later.
Fine.
How long will you be here?
John, sir. For as long as you need me.
The company is fully aware that
you may have problems at first...
and will spare no effort
to help you solve them.
Thank you.
Yes, sir.
Yes, sir?
I had a curious
experience at the airport.
What was that?
Well, I was accosted by a
man who called me by name.
He seemed to know me, and I'm
certain I've never met him.
I suppose it was a mistake on his part.
So it would appear, sir.
What kind of people live here?
Professionals. Some in
business. Some write.
No artists, I hope.
I think you are the only one, sir.
If I may suggest, sir...
perhaps you'd like to give a cocktail
party for the immediate neighbors.
Oh, well, I...
I'd better get myself
used to things first.
Later on, maybe.
As you wish, sir.
That's very good, sir.
Thank you.
Wouldn't you enjoy meeting
some of the people here, sir?
I told you I'm not ready yet, John.
I'll do this in my own
way and in my own time.
Of course, sir.
Hello.
Hey, wait.
I'm sorry about back there.
How about if we try it again?
Hello.
I'm Nora Marcus.
I'm...
Tony Wilson.
- Walk?
- Sure.
Ocean, I love you! You're beautiful!
Beautiful!
All that power, and
she's got all the answers.
Got a question!
What did you ask?
Oh, a tough one.
"Who and what is Tony Wilson?"
And what did it say?
It told me to mind my own business.
That was my life. Two
boys, ages ten and twelve.
Successful and indulgent husband.
A beautiful house, complete
with microwave oven...
intercom, station wagon, et cetera.
Ad infinitum.
And?
I made myself a cup of
coffee, dressed and left.
That was four years ago.
You never went back.
I've seen them from time to time, but...
it's different now.
Maybe because I'm different.
I don't expect you to understand.
I think I do.
You?
An artist?
Why should you understand?
You spent your whole life being.
You don't know anything
about me, really.
Yes, I do.
It's all right there in your face.
What is?
Now you're fishing.
No. Seriously.
This may hurt a little.
I agreed to take my chances.
Madam Marcus will read the leaves.
What kind of a man is he?
There's grace in the line and color...
but it doesn't emerge pure.
It pushes at the edge of
something still tentative.
Unresolved. As if...
somewhere in the man,
there is still a key...
unturned.
That's quite an analysis.
Not really.
When you come to think of it, it
sort of fits everybody, doesn't it?
It's very nice here.
The good things always
happen with the rain.
When will I see you again?
I'm going to Santa Barbara tomorrow.
There's a kind of gathering.
Can I come?
It's going to be very wild.
Maybe that's part of turning the key.
To the god Pan. To
the gods of this place.
Drink! See ye, ye gods.
March down upon this
procession and bless us all!
The Queen of the Wine!
Wine!
Wine! The Queen of the Wine!
Stomp those grapes!
Stomp those grapes!
Stomp those grapes!
Now the season ends, and the
old vines are buried deep.
Now, in dying, Bacchus
gives us his blood...
so we may be born again...
laughing, laughing.
- Come dance with me.
- Nora, I don't know these people.
- I don't think I...
- Don't think me, Tony. Don't.
I came here to feel... to be.
I'm dying, and that's the world...
the whole bloody world!
It's not a question of
dancing. I'm not part of this!
I'm dying, and that's the world!
The whole bloody...
Don't!
Come back here! Get out of there!
Wait a minute. Get your hands
off me. Nora, get out of there!
No, please don't!
Stomp those grapes!
Please!
Kiss me!
Yes. Yes!
- Thank you, John.
- Oh, Mr. Wilson.
- May I present Mr. And Mrs. Lloyd?
- How do you do?
- This is your host.
- Pleasure.
- Mr. Filter.
- Pleased to meet you.
- How do you do?
- Hello.
You have seen Tony's
paintings, haven't you?
Cheers.
- May I present Mr. Mayberry?
- Nice to meet you.
Peekaboo.
- Honey, please slow down.
- Never!
Never!
Come. I'm taking you to ze Casbah.
As soon as these people
leave, I'm going to attack you.
Why, Mr. Wilson, you dirty old man.
I really am.
I want you to know that.
I'm counting on it.
Miss Marcus, you shock me.
- Please, ease up.
- Why?
Because it's not like you.
Oh, I know that.
I'm sorry.
Guess I just needed the added strength.
Well, that's silly.
They're all wonderful people.
Just give them a chance.
- Okay.
- Give yourself a chance.
- Okay.
- Yes?
I promise. No more.
And I promise to behave myself.
I'm sorry. Forgive me.
I've embarrassed you.
No, you haven't.
I think I love you.
You're beautiful!
- You're an ocean.
- Let's go back.
The sooner we get rid of those
people, the sooner we can be together.
- I'm going to hold you to your promise.
- Oh, God. You're evil.
- Yes!
- God, how evil you are.
Henry Bushbain, my husband.
- Nice to know you.
- How do you do?
- You're staggering.
- Hank, that's a dirty lie.
Watch out for this
character. He's a lawyer.
Harvard, I want you to know.
- Really? That's a coincidence.
- Hold it!
- Thank you.
- Me too. In fact, me too twice.
Hollow leg again?
Will you listen? At home, he makes
me look like a veritable piker.
Henry, you sneaking two-face, you.
- Private joke?
- No. I'm sorry.
Come on, Nora. Let's
ditch these two sots.
Help! Rape!
- Wait a minute. You can't do that.
- There's no way you'll get away.
You're going to stay right here.
That's my woman. Hey!
That's very funny.
What's funny?
Is he really a sneaky two-face?
Yes.
There's such a religious climate
out here. Don't you agree?
- I love the climate.
- Yes.
I belong to a special kind of group.
Nothing subversive, I hope.
Oh, good heavens, no! We change sects.
I beg your pardon?
Oh, no, no. Good heavens.
You thought I meant...
"Sects. "
S-E-C-T-S.
- Oh, sects!
- Yes.
Well, thank God!
We change every month.
Right now, we're in Aztec.
Huitzilopochtli, Quetzalcoatl,
virgin sacrifice and all.
I just love your paintings.
How do you ever do it?
Well, you see...
It all began with a big, red ball.
You see...
I paint naked, Mrs. Filter.
- The only way to get at the truth.
- How interesting.
Of course. In this way, my
inner essence is revealed...
and I am presented to the canvas...
in direct relationship
in my primeval state...
without its sociological trappings.
- Watch it!
- Oh, look!
- Take it easy!
- I'm sorry.
- I'm terribly sorry.
- You all right, hon?
- That will never come out.
- I'm terribly sorry.
- Excuse me.
- Look at this mess!
- It's all right, honey.
- May I?
I'm sure it won't stain.
It will all come out.
Hey! You two heard the one about...
Yes, we have.
Well, I'm sorry. I
didn't mean to interrupt.
Seems like I'm doing
everything wrong lately.
Now, don't pout. Mama will
make everything better, okay?
Perfect. Say...
I was thinking about
school just before...
and your house at Harvard wasn't,
by any chance, Adams, was it?
- No, not exactly.
- Is anybody hungry?
Yeah, I am.
Say, Hank...
Hey, Hank, here.
Actually, I'm not a
Harvard alumnus either.
That is, I used to be. I'm not anymore.
- Did you resign or something?
- Take it easy.
That's priceless!
No! I did go to Harvard, you see...
and I was an alumnus...
but that was before I became a
painter, and now I'm not anymore.
Come on!
Realized hopes we're dashing
Into blue obscurity
Resistless, our team sweeps goalward
With the fury of ze blast
We'll fight for the name of Harvard
Till the last white line is
Passed
That's absolutely wonderful!
Truth is, I just stopped
being an alumnus. Simple.
- Wilson!
- What?
You and I must play golf sometime.
Golf?
Antiochus Wilson playing golf?
Now...
Arthur Hamilton...
Looks as if our host is in orbit.
Wait a minute, you guys.
- Put him down.
- Wait a minute.
- Turn him around.
- Hey, listen.
I got a nephew right
in Harvard right now!
- You don't have a nephew.
- What?
I don't have a nephew.
Okay, correct.
I don't have a nephew...
but he's there, all right.
He's there, all right.
My daughter...
she's married to a doctor...
and maybe by this
time, I'm a grandfather.
Believe me.
They'll never drag it out of me.
I'll stand right here on
my constitutional rights.
I'm not a grandfather.
L...
Why are you all staring at me like that?
Why are they staring at me like that?
They know.
They know what?
They're like you.
What do you mean?
Reborns.
Shut up!
Shut up, damn you! Just who the hell...
do you think you are?
My God!
Save me. Please!
- Yes?
- It's me, buddy. Now listen to me.
- Charlie?
- Look, Arthur...
- Listen to me!
- Is it really you?
Of course it is. Do you realize how
dangerous it is, what you're doing?
I've got to get out of here. You
don't know what they're doing to me.
Come on, buddy. Calm down.
- I've got to see you.
- That's impossible right now.
- Why?
- It just is!
You've got to get ahold of
yourself, fast. You'll be sorry...
- You know what they did?
- I can't explain, but...
There's this reborn, Nora.
She's not one of them.
She works for the company.
- What?
- That's right.
An employee.
But I...
Oh, no. She was so...
Why, Charlie? Why?
Your adjustment was bound to be
difficult in the first stages.
Don't you see? The
company simply provided...
An employee.
It means a lot to me
personally. I can't explain...
but we're sort of tied
together, you and me.
We're so close. Don't throw it away.
- How?
- Trust, please!
Promise to stay put until
we can get someone to you.
You've got to have help right
now. Please, will you stay there?
Please!
- Yes?
- I'm Mr. Wilson.
Come in, please. I'll tell
Mrs. Hamilton you're here.
I'm so glad you were able to come.
- Thank you. I didn't mean to barge in.
- Not at all.
It was very kind of you.
I must have sounded strange
over the phone, but...
you see, Arthur never mentioned...
I just met your late husband
last year, shortly before...
Yes. Please, sit down.
Mrs. Hamilton, I'm a
painter... an artist, actually.
I admire your husband's watercolors.
Really?
Not that he was professional,
but he did have something.
He mentioned some paintings in
a cupboard out in the garage.
That's the reason I...
Well, I was wondering if I
might pick one up as a memento.
I'm sorry, but the garage
has been cleaned out.
You threw them away.
No, not exactly.
You have a lovely place here.
Oh, thank you.
- This was the study, wasn't it?
- Yes, it was...
How did you know?
Your husband talked a
lot about this house...
about his family.
I'm sorry.
I didn't mean to stir
up painful memories.
No, it's not that. It's just that...
I never knew Arthur
to do that very much.
How do you mean?
- I don't want to bore you.
- No, please.
I'd like to know.
You see, I knew him
only for a short while.
I'd really like to know.
It's not just curiosity.
We shared an interest in art.
The last time I saw
him, I did some sketches.
Now I'd like to do a painting...
but all I have are lines... a face.
Posthumous portraiture?
I'm not joking.
No, of course you're not. I'm sorry.
You've set me quite a task.
He was a quiet man. The thing I most
remember him for were his silences.
It was...
as if he were always listening
to something inside...
some voice.
He never talked about it,
so I never knew what it was.
He was a good man...
but he lived as if he
were a stranger here.
He never let anything touch him.
He became absorbed in
things, his job mostly.
He worked hard.
He became more detached and...
Always a look around
his eyes as if he were...
trying to say something.
I don't know what.
Protest against what he'd
surrendered his life to?
I never knew what he wanted...
and I don't think he ever knew.
He fought so hard for what
he'd been taught to want...
and when he got it, he just
grew more and more confused.
The silences grew longer.
We never talked about it.
We lived our lives in a polite...
celibate truce.
Arthur had been dead
a long, long time...
before they found him
in that hotel room.
Well, I guess I can't
tell you much more. Enough?
Yes, it is.
I really should be going.
I hope I've been some help.
Yes, you have.
Very much.
You said that you wanted a memento.
It won't be a painting, I'm
afraid, but it's all I have.
I'm sorry, Mr. Wilson.
It doesn't matter.
- I want to go back.
- Of course, sir.
No, I don't mean to California.
To the company.
Start again, all over.
Antiochus Wilson can die, can't he?
The company.
Is it possible?
I think so, sir.
Begin again.
Quite honestly...
I'm not the least bit sorry...
because there were certain
mistakes made in my case...
Of course, but before we go
into all that, let me ask you...
whether you can recommend
and sponsor a new client.
What?
An acquaintance outside...
whom you feel would benefit
by the company's services.
You were sponsored yourself, you know.
Oh, yes, of course.
A business associate, perhaps.
Someone down the street.
You don't have to be intimately
acquainted with a man...
to realize he'd be receptive to
the sort of opportunity we offer.
I'm sorry. Right now,
I just can't seem to...
What I mean is, I'd
like to think about it.
That's all we ask.
As you can imagine, our business
is acquired through present clients.
It's a word-of-mouth
operation.
You don't suppose we can advertise
in magazines and newspapers.
No, of course not.
I think you'll come up with something.
Hold it. Thank you.
Hold your arm up, please.
- Excuse me. I don't understand.
- That's it.
- Is all this really necessary?
- 131/2. Profile.
- Turn sideways.
- Is this necessary for...
Hold it.
That's it. Back view.
- What is this, preliminary for surgery?
- Certainly.
Ayear's gone by. A lot happens
to the human body in a year.
This one is yours, sir.
Hello, Arthur.
- I don't believe I know you.
- It's me, buddy.
You're Charlie?
Guess I am, old buddy.
What are you doing here?
Same as yourself. Waiting.
What's the matter?
Oh, nothing.
It's just that it's hard
to recognize somebody...
and not recognize them at the same time.
How long have you been here?
A while.
When you phoned me, you were here?
Even the first time?
But you sounded...
like the whole thing was
something tremendous...
this rebirth, everything...
even when you hadn't made a go of it!
I thought you'd have a better chance.
Good God! How long does a man
have to wait to get into surgery?
Not long, usually.
I had to stay around and
telephone you, if necessary...
through your first
adjustment, but now...
That's what you meant about
our being tied together.
I couldn't help it.
I had to find out where I went wrong.
The years I've spent...
trying to get all the things
I was told were important...
that I was supposed to want!
Things!
Not people...
or meaning.
Just things.
And California was the same.
They made the same decisions
for me all over again...
and they were the same things, really.
It's going to be different from now on.
A new face and a name.
I'll do the rest.
I know it's going to be different.
I suppose you do too.
Good morning, gentlemen.
Mr. Carlson, please.
Charlie. You?
- Art, I...
- Mr. Carlson, please.
I have the feeling you're
going to make it this time.
I'm sorry to disappoint the rest of you.
Perhaps tomorrow.
You don't seem to
understand our problem.
- I understand it perfectly.
- But you're not cooperating.
I've told you over and over
again, I cannot think of anyone.
- I can't believe that.
- I've been shuffled around long enough.
I think it's time I
had the opportunity...
to start living some kind
of meaningful existence.
If I did sponsor someone, wouldn't
that delay my trip to surgery...
in the event that I were needed from
time to time, to, say, advise him?
No, that's not likely, not if
the selection is a good one.
I'm sorry. I don't seem to be
able to think of a single soul.
- You mean you deliberately won't.
- Have it your way.
Very well.
That will be all. You can
go back to the day room.
Processing, please.
This is Ruby. On Wilson, 722...
I think we can go to the next stage now.
Hello, son.
Oh, sir, I...
You know, I sure hoped you'd make
it, find your dream come true.
- What?
- I said I sure hoped you'd make it...
find your dream come true.
I guess...
I guess I never had a dream.
Maybe that's it. That
sure might have been it.
If I did have one...
it certainly wasn't Antiochus Wilson.
This time...
I've got to be allowed,
sir, to make my own decision.
You know, son...
when I began this business, I
was a young man with an idea.
I wasn't aiming to make a lot
of money, helping others...
helping them to find a little happiness.
Heck, not just the rich.
I thought eventually...
I got tremendous comfort in the
thought that, in my small way...
I was waging a battle
against human misery...
and I was too.
Except we do have a high
percentage of failures.
I guess that's to be expected...
but it hurts me.
Some reborns make a go of it.
We're always working to find
ways to improve the system.
Yeah, we make mistakes.
The fact is, when our clients
first started coming back here...
I wanted to chuck the
whole thing, but I couldn't.
The organization was pretty big by then.
Now...
board of directors, on
a profit-sharing basis.
All those people.
You've no idea what a financial
responsibility it turned into.
Heck, we make mistakes,
but we admit them...
and go forward.
I won't see it in my lifetime...
but some of the younger
execs like Ruby may.
You can call it wishful thinking, son...
but life is built on wishing.
You've got to just keep
plugging away at them.
You can't give up...
and you can't let the
mistakes jeopardize the dream.
Well, here's your transportation.
- What?
- Surgery, sir.
- But I've got to talk to you.
- We're on a tight schedule. Please.
Why, I didn't expect so soon.
It's efficiency. You're
lucky we got a match so quick.
Hop aboard, son. Up there.
The doctors are waiting.
That's just so you won't fall off.
But there's things we have to
talk about. I mean, my identity...
We will later.
Just relax, son. Everything's
going to be just fine.
The thing about doing it on my own.
You see, it's so important... choice.
You've got to change.
We have to talk about it.
We will. I'll look into it personally.
Remember, son. We've got to
keep plugging away at the dream.
The mistakes teach us how. It
wasn't wasted. Remember that.
My name is Dr. Morris, sir.
According to our records, you were
reared in the Protestant faith.
Did you convert to any
other during your adjustment?
Good, good!
That is, good in the sense that
we have a certain definition.
I am not suggesting that
being a Protestant...
is any better than
being a Catholic or Jew.
As a matter of fact, I am qualified to
care for you in those faiths as well.
I was ordained in each...
a rabbi, priest and minister.
I admit it unusual,
maybe a bit advanced.
Wait a minute. What's happening?
Well, sir, when we have finished,
you'll go on to the next stage.
I don't mean that!
Ultimately, we'll be called
to face the Creator...
and render up our last account.
It happens to all of us.
That's no answer! What's
happening to me now?
Don't shout! Please!
"Blessed shalt thou be coming in...
and blessed shalt thou be in going out.
And He said, 'Thou
canst not see My face...
for no man can see Me and live. "'
"I am the Resurrection and the
Life. He that believeth in Me...
though he were dead, shall yet he live.
And a stranger shalt thou not oppress,
seeing ye yourselves were strangers. "
"He that loveth life shall lose it...
and he that hateth his life in this
world shall keep it unto life eternal.
Fear not thou them
which kill the body. "
"I am the door.
By Me, if any man enter
in, shall he be saved. "
God be with you, sir.
What's his data?
"Wilson, mesomorph, age
51, no current diseases.
Requisitioned from
day-room stock May 6.
Released for cadaver use
last night. CPS number 722.
Disposition: Death by
automobile accident...
caused by cerebral hemorrhage. "
All right. Acid etch.
Yes, sir.
- What's the solution strength?
- 5% at 10 cc's.
Timer.
Five minutes.
You were my best work.
I'm sorry it all has to end like this.
Set him up.
I think we'll put the hemorrhage
right under the left exoccipital...
in the lingual gyrus.
Put that light over here.
Good.
All right.
Relax, old friend.
Cranial drill.