West of Eden (2017) Movie Script
(cicadas chirping)
(atmospheric blues guitar)
- [Boy] Stick 'em up.
- You cheated.
- You just lost.
- No, you're supposed to wait longer
before you start the attack.
- You just don't like losing.
(atmospheric acoustic guitar)
Is that him?
- [Boy] Yeah.
- Is he sleeping?
- Shh.
- Is he a real life cowboy?
- [Boy] Yeah, he is a real life cowboy.
- Go on, off you go.
- Oh, mom.
- [Boy] Man, I wish my uncle was a cowboy.
- Oh, yeah, we'll talk to him later.
C'mon.
- Uncle Billy.
- Aroha.
How was the drive?
- It was a long way, Uncle,
but you know I always
love to come and see you.
- Where's Ryan?
- He's inside talking to Gary.
Still got the old hat.
- You know I like it
better than the others.
(Aroha laughing)
- Instead of a new hat this time,
I'm gonna fix that one.
(Billy chuckles)
I wanna hear the story about
why you love that hat so much.
(atmospheric orchestral music)
- Been awhile since I told it.
- Well, I've got all afternoon to hear it.
- Alright, then.
It was in the summer of 1960.
Your dad and I were
working different shifts
at the engineering factory.
(chickens clucking)
Your father was a bit of a nice
Snooker player in those days.
(Aroha laughs)
(upbeat rock music)
(Snooker balls click)
- You ready?
- Yep.
- Good.
- [Man] Hey.
Not so fast, Williams.
- You guys still being
bad losers about Saturday?
- This aint about that.
- It's how you strike the ball.
Joe's got the best backspin here.
Everyone knows it.
- Next time I'll wrap that
fucking cue around your head.
- Well, maybe you guys should
just learn how to play better.
- Yeah, tough guy.
- This is about you, not your big brother.
You and that piece of
scum standing right there.
Smart ass little sod.
(fist whacks against face)
(fist whacks against face)
(Billy groans)
(Billy groaning)
(Billy coughing)
(foot thuds into body)
(Billy yelping)
(foot thuds into chest)
(Billy gasping)
- Hey.
Break it up.
Shift's over, boys.
Get yourselves out of here.
(Billy gasping)
Up you get, lad.
You bloody idiot.
(Billy gasping)
- Bastards.
- Pete, a word.
Normally not my business,
but when it's affecting my workers.
- Mr. McKinley, could we change shifts?
- It's not the shift that needs changing.
His brother's in the next shift, yeah?
- Mr. McKinley, there is no
need to get him involved.
- I run a tight ship.
If I hadn't of known his father,
he would have already got the sack.
So,
I respect him.
No more trouble.
From either of ya.
- Absolutely not, sir.
(Billy groaning)
(atmospheric piano music)
(water streaming)
(upbeat doo-wop music)
- [Billy] It's not as bad as it looks.
It smells good.
- How much longer they got you on nights?
- Until the end of the month.
- Joe, you could swap with Billy.
Well, then that way he
could be on day shift.
- It doesn't work like that.
I'm not management, I
can't just walk in there
and change things around.
Anyway,
what reason would I give?
- Well, can you talk to the boys then?
- To you, he's my little brother.
To everyone else he's a, he's a grown man.
He's got two choices.
He knows what they are.
- I'm thinking of moving away.
- Well there's a good idea.
Maybe you should.
I used to be misunderstood.
- Look, you don't need to do that.
There's plenty of other jobs around.
- Let him go.
It'd be better for the both of us.
- [Phylis] Can you stop
talking like that, please?
- Mum,
it's alright.
He's right.
I've got a job, anyway.
- Where?
- As a farmhand.
- What do you know about farming?
- He can learn.
- [Phylis] How far away is this work?
- [Joe] It's a farm ma,
it's gonna be out of town.
- (Phylis) I was asking Billy.
I used to be misunderstood
Misunderstood
- Joe's right.
I know enough and what I
don't know I can learn.
- And how far away, Billy?
- [Billy] About six hours drive.
- And when?
I used to be misunderstood
Misunderstood, I used
to be misunderstood
- Five weeks.
- Sounds good to me.
(atmospheric piano music)
(birds chirping)
(atmospheric piano music)
- Billy?
- I told you not to come here.
- You can't go.
- Would you keep your voice down?
- You can't just dump me here like this.
- Back
off,
Pete.
- You're the one who told
met not to walk away,
but to stand up for myself.
You're a coward, Billy.
You know that, aye?
Your fancy clothes change
nothing, Billy Williams.
(atmospheric piano music)
(train whistle blowing)
(train chugging along tracks)
(train chugging along track)
(train chugging along track)
(train whistle blowing)
(atmospheric piano music)
- [Attendant] Last stop.
Last stop.
(train bells ringing)
(atmospheric piano music)
(cicadas chirping)
- Can take you as far as Pikes Road.
About 20 miles south.
- Thanks.
South's where I'm headed.
- No, just chuck 'em in the back.
Long way from home, lad?
- Yeah.
I came as far as I could down the line.
- Not a holiday then?
- No.
It's for work.
- Most folks go to town when
they're looking for work.
- I got a job as a farmhand.
I'm Billy by the way.
Billy Williams.
- Stan.
Farmhand, huh?
You ever worked on a farm?
- My uncle breeds horses.
I stayed with him in the school holidays.
I'm a good horseman.
- Right you are, then.
Who's farm will you be workin' on?
- The Henshaw's.
Do you know it?
- Everyone knows their farm.
- You know the Henshaws then?
- Yeah.
Let's just say I'm a
friend of old man Birch.
Neighborly at points.
- Thanks.
- (chuckles) Good luck.
(atmospheric piano music)
(birds chirping)
(wind rustling)
(atmospheric guitar music)
- [Billy] Thanks.
(upbeat guitar music)
(birds chirping)
(atmospheric ballad)
(knocking on door)
(knocking on door)
(door creaks open)
I could not run away
- Hello?
(atmospheric ballad)
Hello?
I'd like to leave it all
Behind and go and find
A place
- Anybody home?
(atmospheric ballad)
Hello?
(Eva moaning)
(Eva moaning)
(Eddie moaning)
- Uh, Oh.
Oh, God, Eddie.
Eddie.
- Bugger off, you little pervert.
Get your clothes on.
I'll deal with the little shit.
- [Radio Announcer] That was Arthur Peel
singing Blue Skies.
You're listening to 2YA.
Now here's another Arthur
Peel favorite, April Showers.
(atmospheric ballad)
- [Eddie] Jesus.
Who's this?
- Mr. Henshaw?
- Yes.
Who are you?
- Ah, this must be
Billy, our new farmhand.
- Billy Williams.
Pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Henshaw.
- [Eva] Yes.
- How long have you been waiting here?
- Ah, I just arrived sir.
Just as you came through the door.
Sir, is there anywhere
I could put my bags?
- Ah, it's confusing, this is Mr. Henshaw,
but he's my husband's brother.
Frank's across Cold Water Creek.
He'll be back at dinner.
- Not a country boy, then?
- No, sir.
- Frank's little joke.
Yeah.
- Look, you've probably had a long trip.
You need to freshen up?
- [Danny] Who's this cowboy?
- Billy.
I'm the new farmhand.
- Yeah?
Good, me and Frank could do
with a bit of muscle around here.
I'll show you around.
If that's alright with you, Mrs. Henshaw?
- Yes, that's fine.
- Danny Birch.
Head driver.
Follow me, cowboy.
- You knew about this, then?
- I didn't think he was
coming 'til next week.
- Well thanks for telling me then.
- Don't take it like that.
- He's a city boy, a merry city boy
dressed like a fucking cowboy.
I swear, I'll kill him.
- Eddie, try and calm down.
- You tell Frank he's gotta go.
- I'm the last person
Frank will listen to,
and you know that.
- I won't let him do this to me.
- He owns most of the farm.
He can do what he likes.
It'll be alright.
- He's an inexperienced farmhand.
Dad would never have agreed to that.
(Eva laughing)
Love, I adore you
Hope never to bore you.
I'm done
If I can't
Have it so
Tell me the truth
Have you been
With another man
- A bit early, isn't it?
Lover's tiff?
I don't know who's more pathetic,
you or
me.
She plays you like a
fiddle, Eddie Henshaw.
Like a bloody fiddle.
Tell me are you coming home tonight
(atmospheric ballad)
I know that
I have done wrong
But you know
I've loved you all along
(atmospheric piano music)
- Eva?
- [Eva] Mrs. Henshaw to you.
- Strap.
- What do you want, Danny?
- To take your daughter out.
- She's not interested in you.
At least the girl's got that much sense.
- Yeah, well we don't
always get what we want.
- [Eva] What do you mean by that?
- Tell me, after so many
years as to wear that fire,
is it the risk or the secret
that keeps you both burning for more?
You made such a pretty pair.
There's a local dance
on at the end of summer.
Tess likes dances.
Think about it.
Ah, and I'll see you at dinner tonight?
Assume he will be there to
welcome the new farmhand.
(apple crunches)
(atmospheric piano music)
(atmospheric piano music)
(atmospheric piano music)
- You're staring.
- No, just captivated by that stray lock
of hair gently caressing your cheek.
- Get lost, Eddie.
- Oh well, I better get back to work
or Frank will dock my pay.
- [Billy] Do you need a hand?
- [Danny] No, as good as gold.
- I met Eva earlier.
You must be her daughter?
- Must I?
I presume you met Eddie, then?
- Huh,
yep.
- It's about a five hour
roundtrip to move the stock.
- [Eddie] Right.
- That's what you'll be
doing every Thursday.
You can ride then?
- Yeah.
- Eddie's back's too bad.
We all know that's a crock of shit.
(atmospheric ballad)
I think you're gonna do
alright for city boy.
- No, Frank, don't.
(gun fires) (dog yelps)
(dog barking)
(atmospheric orchestral music)
- [Tom] He shot Jack.
- [Eva] No.
- [Tom] Yes.
- [Eva] I've gotta go.
- No, c'mon he's gone.
- No.
- There's nothing you can do.
- No.
- No.
- C'mon, Mom.
(Eva crying)
- What happened?
- He finally did it, huh?
- Shut up, Danny.
- Billy Williams.
- Tom.
(atmospheric piano music)
- Now, my man,
this is your seat.
Guest of honor always sits here.
- To the guest of honor.
- Eddie.
- That's enough.
- Don't touch me.
- Let us say Grace.
We thank you Lord for the
food we're about to receive,
and the love that binds us.
May your grace fill our
thoughts and actions, amen.
- Amen.
- Amen.
- Amen.
(atmospheric piano music)
- What time do you call this?
- I buried Jack.
- Had to be done.
It's a bloody farm dog.
- He was Eva's boy.
- Huh, it was the runt from your bitch.
Put up with the useless bugger for years.
C'mon, eat up.
Food's getting cold.
(atmospheric piano music)
By the light
Of the silvery moon
I want to spoon
To my honey I'll croon love's tune
By the moon
Keep a shining in June
Your silvery beams will
bring love's dreams
- [Diane] What are you cooking?
- I'm making a sweet chutney.
- [Diane] These are best for that.
Got a real bite to them.
Have you got onions?
And raisins as well?
(bell ringing)
- Oh. (Giggling).
- Oh, and you'll need
some spices, we have those.
- Can I have a pound of peas, please?
- Doug.
- Maggie, Diane, lovely as ever.
- It's been too many years.
Keep a shining in June
- [Diane] How's your dad?
- Ah, not too good.
- It's always hard, isn't it?
- That should cover everything.
- Are you staying for the wedding?
- Yes, I thought I might.
It'd be good to catch up with everyone.
- [Diane] You'll find those ethels
will really add that something extra.
- I'll bring you a jar.
- Ladies, are you not
going to introduce me?
- [Maggie] Doug, this is Ruth.
- [Doug] Pleasure.
You're not from around here?
- I am.
- But you're not born here.
- No.
- Well, I thought as much.
- I have lived here awhile, though.
- Well as they say, it takes
at least two generations to be from here.
- Stop it.
Take no notice of him, he's only joking.
- It's true though, aye?
- Well, had you grown up here,
I never would have forgotten
such a beautiful face.
- Doug, always the charmer.
She's already taken.
- Pity.
Well, so Diane, tell us all the gossip?
Well, there's no one better
to get all the latest,
but you probably already know that.
- Hasn't your mother
been sending in letters?
- [Doug] (laughs) I want the juicy stuff,
not the abridged version she's sends me.
I swear her correspondents are so brief,
I could gleam more from a telegram.
(Maggie chuckles)
- [Maggie] Here's your change.
- Let me help you with that.
- Oh, thank you, but I'm fine.
- No, I insist.
After you.
I'll see you both soon, then.
- Bye.
- Bye.
(birds chirping)
- They exaggerate.
- Thanks for your help.
- [Doug] Well, I might
see you around then?
- [Ruth] Mm.
(atmospheric piano music)
(car engine whirring)
(truck engine whirring)
(chickens clucking)
(atmospheric piano music)
- [Eva] You seem to have a real knack
with the horses, Billy.
He's very fond of you.
- [Billy] Maybe a little too much.
- Here you are.
- [Eva] Don't be late for dinner.
- Yep.
Hi, Billy.
- Hi.
- See you at the dinner.
(Tom chuckles)
(cow mooing)
- Haven't done too bad a job here.
Make a farmer out of you yet, Son.
- Frank?
- Thought you were getting
the cake sorted out?
- [Eva] That was earlier this morning.
- Pass me that half inch socket, will ya?
- You said we'd talk over
things when I got back.
- [Frank] Busy.
Besides,
nothing more to be said.
- He refuses to do it.
- Uh, sulking like a child.
- He doesn't know what to say.
- I'll give him a hand if he needs one.
Or perhaps you could?
- Why are you forcing this?
They never got on.
I don't see the point.
- The point is we all
have to endure situations
we're not entirely happy with.
We do it not for ourselves but for others.
It's what adults do.
It's our duty.
Besides, Alan's accepted that
Tom will be his best man.
- He's obliged to, you're
paying for his wedding.
- I'm paying for your niece's wedding.
He's more than happy with the suggestion.
Tom will do our family the honor,
representing us as his best man.
- It's all about duty with us, isn't it?
- Did you expect something more?
- Tom does.
- I did once, made a fool of me.
Tom's best man.
He'll be delivering the speech.
(tractor engine whirring)
And that's that.
- Maybe you shouldn't hold onto everything
so tightly before you
squeeze the life out of it.
(church bells ringing)
(gathering cheering)
(gathering chattering)
(spoon clinking on glass)
- [Alan] Ah,
first,
I would like to thank Kathy
for marrying me.
- [Reggie] So would we.
(gathering laughing)
- Thanks, Reggie.
Ah, we would both like to
thank you all for, for coming,
and making this such a special day.
I would especially like to thank
my lovely wife's Uncle Frank and Aunt Eva.
- Here, here.
- Here, here.
- It's more than we could have hoped for.
Thank you, Uncle Frank for
paying for all of this,
and Auntie Eva for organizing
absolutely everything.
You're an inspiration to us both.
- Here, here.
- Thank you.
- Yes, and if we could
be anything close to what
you two are after 20 years,
we will be truly happy.
- Here, here.
- Here.
- [Alan] To Frank and Eva.
- To Frank and Eva.
(glasses clinking)
- [Alan] Ah,
right.
I shall now call upon
the best man.
No need to be shy, aye? (Laughing)
(gathering chuckling)
- [Tom] I'd like to welcome
the new Mr. And Mrs. Radcliffe,
and to thank our lovely bridesmaids.
You all look beautiful.
- [Man] Here, here.
- What's he doing?
- [Eva] I don't know.
- Most of you here know,
Alan, for many years
has tried to win my cousin over.
And so here we are.
But what is thing called
marriage really about?
As I look around, one thing I know
it shouldn't be about
is increasing status,
or pleasing family or friends.
No, I believe the only reason anyone
should vow to commit the
rest of their life to someone
is because they love them,
and they cannot imagine spending
the rest of their life without them.
So, I would like to propose a toast.
And finally, a quote from Oscar Wilde.
- [Frank] What?
- [Eva] I don't know why he said that.
- "Keep love in your heart.
"For life without it
"is like a summer's garden
when the flowers are dead."
(gathering chattering)
- What was he talking about?
- [Eva] I don't know
anything about it, Frank.
- Was that what he was meant to say?
(atmospheric piano music)
(gathering chattering)
- Well now, Tom certainly knows
how to kick over the beehive.
Is he courting anyone here?
- No, but I'm sure there's
plenty of time for that.
- Mom always said he was
too pretty for a boy.
It wouldn't hurt you to
encourage him a little.
(atmospheric piano music)
(gathering chattering and laughing)
If tell you sweetheart
I'm in love
With you
Let me feel you whisper
That you love me
- [Doug] Eddie?
- [Eddie] I see you made it then.
How's your dad?
- [Doug] Oh, bearing up.
It's good to see ya.
It must be 17 years at least.
- More like 19.
- Oh, where does the time go, aye?
- [Eddie] Are you still
in Melbourne, then?
- [Doug] Yep, got my own business.
Making carbon liner.
New subdivisions popping up everywhere.
More work than you can poke a stick at.
- [Eddie] So things are going well, then?
- [Doug] You shoulda come.
- [Eddie] Frank was in Guadalcanal.
I had to look after the fam.
- [Doug] Yeah, you got yourself
bogged down in cow shit.
- [Eddie] You left a mess behind.
- Sorry about that, old chap.
Dealership with big ticket
items, it's always a bit risky.
As you know, we'll not all cut out
to business men, now are we?
- It was your idea.
- Well, they were good tractors, mind.
Lucky for you, you had
the farm to fall back on.
Now how are the dog trots?
Still winning every show?
- Yeah.
Most of them.
- Eva.
- [Eva] How are you, Doug?
- Well, better for seeing you.
(Eva laughing)
You don't mind me saying that, do you?
Well, allow me.
- Thanks.
- What the hell was Tom doing?
- He changed it.
- He doesn't even like Alan.
Why was he best man?
- It was Frank's idea.
- Huh.
- That was an interesting speech.
(Eva chuckles nervously)
- Hey, Frank?
You know, now that we're
related and all that,
I thought, maybe I could come over,
and we could talk over revitalizing
that stretch along Cold Water Creek?
- [Woman] I told you,
I wanted a decent gin.
This one's drowning in cordial.
- [Waiter] I'm sorry, I'll
get you a new one, then.
- [Woman] Yes, thank you.
- Do you think she ever found out?
- No, lucky for us.
- She complained to Gordon's,
and they gave her a whole crate.
At least that's what Mary said.
- So, she did alright, then?
- I can't believe you
thought she wouldn't notice.
It might have looked like
gin but it tasted like water.
- It was a 50/50 split.
(Eva laughing)
it was a try,
and we had a good time, didn't we?
- You can say that again.
- I can't believe that's Mary's mother.
I used to have such a crush on that girl.
Are you in touch with the gang?
- No.
- Oh, pity.
They were wild parties.
- Yep.
- They were good times.
- Sure were.
- I always thought I'd get an invite
to a do like this from you two.
(atmospheric piano ballad)
So, happy these days, Eva?
Life of marital bliss?
- [Frank] Excuse me.
- Frank.
- Doug.
A long time since we've
seen you in these parts.
- There's too much money
to be made in Melbourne.
- I'm sure there is.
Will you excuse us?
- Lovely seeing you, Doug.
- You too, Eva.
- [Frank] Can you at least
pretend to be my wife?
- [Eva] I was getting a
drink and they were there.
- Of course you were.
I can't believe he's even
talking to that bastard.
He's nothing more than a con man.
He left a mess behind him.
Has he forgotten about that?
- I told you not to go with
the terrible (mumbles).
Looks like you paid
dearly for that year off.
- Cause you left for good.
- [Chuckles] I had nothing to stay for.
(atmospheric piano ballad)
- I think Frank's the one.
- Yep.
- He's a roll in the green?
- He is.
You can grab him now, he's over there.
- Ah, here's our man. (Chuckles)
- Ah, gentlemen.
What's all this then?
- Frank ole boy, the, ah, chaps and I
have just been talking about Thomas.
His opening from the
District's Farmers Federation,
and, uh, surmising who might
make a good replacement.
- And we all think you would.
- Well,
now, I'm honored.
- It's common knowledge
you and your brother
have the best farm in the district, Frank.
Brothers you know today,
an example to us all.
- And not forgetting
your exemplary bravery
in the Salums.
- Indeed, our very own
- Indeed.
- war hero.
- Thank you.
- Frank,
you're a good family man,
and, ah. We think you
and your lovely wife here
will do wonders for the federation.
- I'm sure Mrs. Henshaw would only be
to proud to stand alongside you.
- Of course.
- So, would you put yourself forward then?
- Well, gentlemen, what can I say?
I think I shall.
- Oh, excellent, this requires a toast.
Henry?
- Waiter?
- Dutch courage.
(atmospheric piano ballad)
- A love letter?
- No, a speech I didn't give.
- You spoke your mind instead.
- I'll pay for it.
- So you're Frank's boy?
- Yep.
- If you don't mind me asking,
how old are you?
- 19.
- 20 soon, then.
- End of July.
- July?
Bit on the long side.
Tough Judy, that one.
Air Force didn't get much time off.
Left in September 1944,
well over two years.
I'm sure you made him proud on his return.
- I suppose so.
- [Doug] I'm sure you did.
- Good that you had Eddie on the farm.
To keep things ticking over.
- I suppose so.
- Brave man.
- I noticed you brought a
new seed line in this year?
- Yes, recommended to me by my supplier.
I see you bought up the old Miller place?
- Ooh, word gets around, don't it?
- Not much passes by me.
Your old man, how's he getting on?
- Same as always.
Another day older, more stubborn with it.
- So this, uh, this
seed you're now using...
- [Alan] Ah.
- [Man] Eva, one.
- [Alan] I think it's the
shareholder's privilege
to get a head start.
- [Eva] Thank you.
- Frank's decision in the Port of Rabaul
saved mine and hundreds of men's lives.
He's like a brother to me.
Running the federation would
put you both in the spotlight.
I'm sure you'll understand,
he'll need your support.
You do get my meaning, don't you?
- Thank you, Henry.
- Good girl.
- Giving Mrs. Henshaw tips already, Henry?
- [Henry] Ah, well.
- A toast to Frank.
To
Luck and success.
To Frank.
- To Frank.
- To Frank.
- To Frank.
- Thank you.
(gathering applauds)
- Thank you.
Thank you.
And now there is a special request.
A warm hand for Ed.
(gathering applauds)
(atmospheric violin music)
- Mum, I'm feeling out of sorts.
I think I might head home.
- [Eva] What?
- I'll call Billy to pick me up.
- [Eva] What's wrong?
- It's a headache, that's all.
- [Eva] I'm not surprised
after what you said.
- He's a weasel.
What I said was true.
- You should have lied.
- I don't lie.
- Tom, sometimes people
don't tell the truth
because the truth is
more hurtful than a lie.
- I thought you'd be on my side.
- What was that all about?
- He says he's sick.
(atmospheric violin music)
- He plays well.
If he plays for you.
- You talk in riddles.
What do you want?
- You're a good woman.
- What?
- You deserve better.
(atmospheric violin music)
(gathering applauding)
- [Doug] You missed your vocation.
- [Eddie] Hmm.
- Hello, again.
- [Ruth] We met at Mack's Orchard.
- Doug, this is my wife, Ruth.
- Well, well, well.
- Uncle Eddie, are you taking Tom home?
- I didn't know he was going home.
- He says he has a headache.
- [Eddie] Looks like he's got a ride.
- [Frank] Well, what's all this?
- Please, he might listen to you.
- Excuse us.
- Billy's taking me home.
- Children, they'll drive you crazy,
but you gotta love 'em, right?
Bet you'd make a wonderful mother, Ruth.
- I've got a headache.
- I'll bet you have.
- I'm feeling sick.
- Headstrong and foolhardy,
that's what you are.
- Oh, c'mon, Frank, not here.
- You keep out of our business.
- The boy says he's sick.
- I know when my own son's sick,
and he's not sick.
- You come here and you
spout all that rubbish
at your cousin's...
- Stop, Frank.
- I've only just started.
We'll finish it when we get home.
- I'm not staying.
- You'll do as I say.
He's got to learn to take
responsibility for himself.
He can't be the big man one minute,
and hide behind your
apron strings the next.
Well, now you're here,
you might as well come
around and meet everyone.
I'll get Danny to introduce you.
- One day.
- [Eva] Please, Eddie,
people are watching.
- It's getting intolerable.
- [Eva] Not here, please, Eddie.
- Okay, everyone.
We have a special item from
Auntie Eva's sister Janice.
So, let's give her a big hand.
(gathering applauding)
(atmospheric piano music)
In the good ole summertime
In the good ole summertime
Rolling through the shady lands
- I won't let him control me, Tess.
- It's just his way.
- I don't like his way.
He doesn't treat you like that.
- 'Cause I don't take him head on,
and I don't give speeches
like you did tonight.
- I spoke the truth, that's all.
In the good ole summertime
- Do you like Billy?
- Yes, he seems nice.
- Good.
- I like him, but not that much.
- I do.
Through the shady lands
- What are you saying?
- You know what I'm saying.
- You just haven't met
the right girl, yet.
And that's a very good sign
- Will you always love me, Tess?
No matter what?
- [Tess] I wish you
wouldn't talk like that.
- I'd always back you.
- We're looked up to you around here.
We have a standing in this community.
(Tom chuckling)
Can you imagine the damage
you'd bring to our family?
Stop it, Tom.
- Our family is the
biggest lie around here.
- Loyalty means a lot to me.
- And truth to me.
- [Tess] Be careful, Tom.
- How's the headache?
- Ole Billy here was concerned enough
to suggest we find out.
- I've got some Disprin if you want some?
- Like a good ole Boy Scout.
- Thanks.
- I'll get you
a glass of water.
(atmospheric piano ballad)
- He's a good farmhand.
Be a shame to lose him.
- [Tom] Does he not like it here?
- [Danny] No, he seems happy enough.
Make sure you don't burn yourself.
- [Billy] I got cold water from the tap.
- He's trying to be prophetic,
but really he's just pathetic.
I never really had a headache.
Just wanted to get away from all this.
- [Billy] Ah, I should go.
- Stay.
He hasn't got a hope, watch her.
Put those feet
Upon the seat
Of a bicycle made for two
- There, I told ya.
Well, don't feel sorry for him.
Where'd he go?
- By the drinks.
- Now what a surprise.
My Auntie's drunk again.
Hey, did you see that?
He's gaming on her.
Do you think she's keen on him?
(atmospheric piano music)
Now let's see what Eddie does.
There look, he doesn't care.
- But Frank does.
- Cares about Ruth?
- No, about who he's going outside to see.
- You're good at this.
Welcome to the circus.
- Thought I'd escape, too.
- You played beautifully in there.
- It was for you.
I give you that.
It's always for you, kiddo.
(atmospheric piano music)
(cows mooing)
(atmospheric violin music)
- Hey, Billy?
- [Billy] Yep?
- Come in.
- I need to change.
- You're fine just as you are.
Come in.
(atmospheric piano music)
I need to ask you some things in private.
- Is something wrong?
Look, I'm sorry I haven't dug
up the vegetable garden yet.
I know you wanted it done before Autumn,
but we've just been so
busy with the master.
- I'm not worried about that.
Of course you'll do that for me.
You've been here a few good months now.
What do you think of Frank?
- He's a good farmer.
- But is he a good man?
(chuckling) It's okay.
You can say it.
He's a bully.
We all know it, and we
all go along with it,
but what do you think is worse,
be the bully, be disloyal
or become the victim?
You are none of those.
You're different.
Why did you come here?
Please.
Don't go, just please sit down.
(atmospheric piano music)
- I came here to learn how to run a farm.
- It's because that's
what they want me to do.
Well, no.
That's what Frank wants.
- What does Mrs. Henshaw want?
- The only thing my
mother wants is my uncle.
I don't blame her, but she
shouldn't fuck in the house.
Not in Frank's bed.
Stupid bugger still loves
her in his own strange way.
- Why do you call him Frank?
Never Father?
(atmospheric piano music)
(birds chirping)
- One day when he finds
out who I really am,
he'll not call me his son.
- I'm not sure I know what you mean.
- You will.
And I think you're gonna
make a good farmer.
- Look, dinner will be
on the table in minutes.
I've, I need to change.
I should probably go.
- Of course, yes.
You need to change.
I'll see you at dinner.
(atmospheric piano music)
- Zip me up.
(zipper zipping up)
- The weather's turning.
I don't wanna to keep doing this.
Hiding like this.
- It has to be this way.
- The kids are nearly adults, Eva.
- We have to keep things
as they are for Tom.
He's not ready yet.
- Tom doesn't wanna work on this farm.
This place will destroy him
just like it's destroyed me.
- It's what Frank wants.
- Yeah, we all have to
do what Frank wants.
- Not always.
(atmospheric piano music)
- Do you wanna leave this place?
- I want to be with you.
(birds chirping)
(bees buzzing)
- [Eva] Hello, Jenny.
- Hi.
- Hi.
(atmospheric piano music)
- Hope you've left enough for me.
- Auntie.
Ah, I can, I can get something else
if there's not enough left.
- [Eva] Of course not, I'm teasing you.
- Oh.
- Eva has a standing order for this.
We always have some put aside for her.
- You look stunning as always.
- Thank you.
We opened that new hall in town today.
- Did you get to cut the ribbon?
- Yes, and listen to endless speeches.
- You must be so proud of Uncle Frank.
- What's the occasion?
- Oh, there isn't.
- Newlyweds, isn't it wonderful?
(Eva giggles)
That'll be five and six.
- Do you think he'll approve?
There's still a few buds to bloom.
- Alright, let's have a look.
- They say women are the finicky ones.
- They do.
- They are.
- Well, the look's for him
and the perfume's for me.
- He loves his lilies, doesn't he?
- He does.
I can never walk past them
without thinking of him.
- Oh, that's so lovely.
- It's not just newlyweds then.
(Eva giggles)
(Diane and Maggie giggle)
- These are for Tom.
- Frank doesn't believe in cut flowers.
- [Maggie] Afternoon Mrs. Fielding.
- Afternoon, girls.
- Frank's outside.
- Oh, right.
Think I'll go have a quick chat
with him before I head home.
Good afternoon, ladies.
- Bye.
- Bye.
- He's a young man in love.
- He's a young man with ambition.
- Oh, I think he's sweet.
I'm all for romance.
Your Tom must be a romantic.
Lucky the girl that wins him over.
He'll be keen to go to this, I dare say.
- I dare say he will.
- Aren't they lovely.
The lily, a flower with so many meanings.
For the Christians, they're
a symbol of innocence,
purity,
piety.
Now the Greeks, they
saw the Lily as a symbol
of eroticism
and sexuality.
He's a talented young man, your Tom.
- [Maggie] Hmm, that'll get them talking.
The whole town will know
before the sun is down.
The dance.
(Eva chuckles)
- Tell Tom I'd like him to
paint me a picture sometime.
- I will.
I'm sure he'd love to show off his talent.
- Hmm, takes after his
uncle then, does he?
- Frank's waiting out there.
I better go.
Bye.
- Bye.
- [Diane] Bye.
- The golden couple.
Oh, how he swept her off her feet.
They were the envy of everyone.
- Um, still are.
- Yes, they put up a good
show, that's for sure.
Well, huh, better be off.
Can't stand here gossiping
all day. (Chuckles)
- Bye Mrs. Fielding.
- Bye.
- (whistling) It's a
beautiful new car, Frank.
- It certainly is.
- And I hear you got some big sponsors
for the A&P Show this year?
- Indeed we have.
Might turn out to be the
biggest show yet. (Chuckles)
- Ah, huh..
Hey, ah, about that stretch
along Cold Water Creek.
- Mm-hmm.
- Ah,
I've drawn up some plans
if you've got some time
to take a look at them?
- [Frank] Oh, yeah.
- I thought we could try
some new ideas down there.
Plow it up a little bit,
plant a good crop of lupins,
and disk it back in with a dose
of that new soil conditioner.
Ah, Reggie said it worked a trick for him.
- Yeah, yeah, good.
Sounds good.
- Yes.
(bell ringing)
- [Louis] Afternoon, Mrs. Henshaw, ladies.
- Afternoon Louis.
- Hi.
- [Frank] Here we go.
- I was just on my way
to pick up an order.
We're having people over for dinner.
- That's nice.
- Yes.
- Um, see you soon?
- [Eva] Yes.
- Yeah, see you around.
- He's a lovely young man.
- If we'd not been here,
he would have asked you.
- But Dad doesn't approve of him, Mum.
Jenny wants Tom to ask her to go,
but I told her he doesn't like dancing.
- Well, we'll have to see what
we can do about that, then.
- I so badly want to go.
What if no one asks me?
- We can always buy our own tickets.
- You could.
That way you wouldn't have to go
with the first boy that asks you.
Of course, you will have to let the one
that you want to know you're going,
that you're going unaccompanied.
See there's always a
way around these things.
And a little bit of Tom goes a long way.
We better be off.
- I think your mother's wonderful.
See you again soon.
- [Tess] Okay, bye.
(car engine whirring)
- [Alan] Cheerio.
(car engine whirring)
- See ya later.
- Bye.
(atmospheric piano music)
- [Danny] Hey, Louis, help
me out with these seeds.
- [Louis] Hey, ole Danny, looking good.
- [Man] Your boss is doing alright
for himself by the looks.
- [Danny] Yep.
- And how are you, Danny boy?
- [Danny] Ah, good thank you, Mr. Malem.
- That's good to hear.
And how's your dear mother?
- Still livin' with your Aunt?
- Ah, yes.
- Yeah, sweet woman.
- Ah, you've turned
into a good hard worker.
- [Danny] Huh, thank you.
- Now old Frankie knows how to pick 'em.
How's Mrs. Henshaw?
- Ah, keeping well, yes.
- [Man] Yes.
- Lovely lady, Mrs. Henshaw.
- [Laughs] Lou's got
an eye on her daughter,
haven't you, Lou?
(Louis sighs
(atmospheric piano music)
(man laughs)
- [Louis] Better get the
rest of this seed unloaded.
- How's Frank finding this new seed mix?
- Ah, excellent, I believe.
- Like I told him, it's,
um, late flowering.
Should be good for all year round.
- True test will be next summer then?
- [Man] All finished, boss.
- Good, aye.
Give my best wishes to your dear mother.
- Will do.
- [Louis] Bye.
- [Man] Cheerio, mate.
- [Danny] See you later.
- [Louis] When does
Danny's father get out?
- [Man] It was a lot of money.
I heard another three years, yeah?
- [Rex] That happens to someone around,
it's sad to see a good family pulled.
(atmospheric orchestral music)
(truck engine whirring)
(atmospheric orchestral music)
(water splashing)
- Hey, cowboy.
- Sir?
- Always been meaning to ask you,
how does a city boy like you learn
to ride like he was born to it?
- My people weren't always from the city.
- [Frank] Your people?
- What is it an army or some
weird (mumbles), cowboy?
- [Frank] You're just full of shit.
- My uncle taught me.
- He taught you well.
Don't mind him.
He thinks this place should be his.
My father bought it from his grandfather.
The old bugger was a drunkard.
Gambling man.
His oldest son died at Passchendaele.
He let the place got to pot.
My old man worked hard to
bring it back up to scratch.
I've increased the yield twofold.
I reckon it'll be the best farm
around here by the time my son gets it.
You haven't done a bad job,
even if I do say so myself.
- What about Eddie?
- What about him?
- Will he get his half?
- He's got no half.
He had some debts and I paid them.
Might have a third if he's lucky.
I figure he's already got
enough of what's mine.
He only works here cause I let him.
Anyway, what we he do with it?
He has no instinct for farming.
And that drunken third ole wife of his.
Who would he leave it to, huh?
It's the way it has to be.
(clicks cheek)
(atmospheric piano music)
(birds chirping)
(brush scraping against mane)
(thunder rumbling)
(horses neighing)
- Hello.
How's the garden?
(thunder rumbling)
(horse neighing)
- Good.
(horse neighing)
Just getting another load of hay.
- Good.
- Do you need a hand?
- Hold her steady.
(thunder rumbling)
(horse neighing)
- Hey.
- Yep?
- We need you by the
creek, tractor's stuck.
Bad timing?
- Oh, I, I was...
- Is she good to go?
(thunder rumbling)
- Yeah, we're finished here.
(horse neighing)
- Good.
Storm's coming.
As the say, better make a hay
while the sun still shines.
- [Frank] She's workin' down.
Have to wench her out.
Crankshaft's gone.
Dig out that soil, I'll
get the other tractor.
(shovels thudding into the ground)
(thunder rumbling)
- [Danny] Planning on staying?
- Don't see why not.
- [Danny] Well, I can.
- What do you mean?
- [Danny] I'm not gonna let you and Tom
take the family down.
- I don't know what you're talking about.
(tractor engine whirring)
- Yeah, you do.
Is that what happened last time?
(thunder rumbling)
Hey.
Is that why you came to work here?
As far away from home as you can?
You're a long way from home.
Farms not a place for a couple of homos.
- I'm not going.
This time I'm staying.
- Not if I can help it.
I'm not gonna sit while you
and that pretty boy take down Frank.
- Here boys.
(chain clanking)
Put your backs into it, boys.
It'll be dark soon.
There's beer in the fridge
for when you're finished.
- Right ya are.
- Thanks.
- Yep.
Yep.
- [Frank] Alright.
(thunder rumbling)
(chain creaking)
(tractor engine whirring)
(birds chirping)
(atmospheric piano music)
(wire scraping)
- I thought you might want something
to eat and drink?
(atmospheric piano music)
You've been up here all afternoon.
When we were kids, Tess and I used
to come up here and watch the clouds.
At first they just look like
white blobs floating across the sky,
but
after awhile, you'll see them.
- See what?
- The pictures in the clouds.
The dragons, the knights riding horses.
It's like another world.
- All I see is just clouds.
- You have to lie back to see it.
Lie back.
Squint your eyes.
Do you see it?
Isn't it beautiful?
- Yeah.
It's beautiful.
(atmospheric piano music)
(gun fires)
(wind rustling)
(birds chirping)
(atmospheric piano music)
(ax cracking wood)
- Can you at least meet her?
- Not interested.
- Can you at least look
as if you're interested?
You know, people are
starting to talk, Tom.
- And end up like you and him.
Both stuck with someone you don't love?
- No one's gonna accept your love.
- Like they accept yours.
You and Eddie here are both having a love,
so let me have a chance at mine.
- I'm not wanting to deny you that.
I just don't want you to end up like me.
- Is there something wrong?
I heard my name.
- No.
Looks like we have to
cover this up for now.
- There's plenty more room on the truck.
- Blisters on my hands.
- Well, Frank won't be pleased.
- Then we won't tell him.
What he doesn't know won't hurt
him, isn't that right, Mum?
- Well, that's fine with me.
- I hope you know what you're doing.
- It's a risk that I'll take.
- You didn't tell Billy
that we'll cover this up?
Have you two been sharing secrets?
You'll have to tell Billy.
When he empties the truck,
he'll wonder where the
rest of the wood is.
- Yeah, I'll let him know.
- Alright, then.
(atmospheric piano music)
(truck engine whirring)
(atmospheric piano music)
(Billy chuckles)
(Billy chuckles)
(Billy laughing)
- [Billy] Mrs. Henshaw.
- [Tom] Hi, Mom.
- Hi.
Can you just get some more eggs?
- [Tom] Yep.
(birds chirping)
(creek flowing)
- [Eva] Is everything okay?
- Want one?
- [Billy] No.
- Not when you're working, aye?
Why is it that some people think
that they can have more
than their fair share?
She'll get her comeuppance one day.
- Why don't you leave?
- We're all trapped here.
We all live this farce
because we're as frightened
of who we might be
should it all blow apart,
as we're as fearful of
what people might say.
It's my fault.
And Frank's.
You ever chase a man for love?
Or marry your brother's first sweetheart?
- So what's this all about?
- I'm going to the
dance at the local hall.
- I know that, but no suitor?
- No.
- [Frank] Hmm.
After you've gone
And left me crying
After you've gone
- She's already gone.
You've wasted your money.
And I feel sad
- Oh, and Danny, we don't
always get what we want.
- Whoa.
Look steady on.
This was the time
- What are you up to?
- Cleaning the gear for the rhubarb cull.
Look what I'm doing
My love for you will
- You mind if I give a hand.
- Bit overdressed.
After you've gone away
- Yeah.
- I suppose so then.
And left me crying
After you've gone
There's no denying
I'll feel blue
And I'll feel sad
I'll miss the only
vow that I ever had.
This was a time
I won't forget it
It was a time
And I'll regret it
Oh, babe
Look what I'm doing
My love for you
Will drive me to ruin
After you've gone
- So you're coming on the hunt this time?
- No.
- Cowboy's gonna be coming.
After you've gone
And left me crying
- You know, you should be more careful.
You stare at him too long.
There's no denying
I'll feel blue
And I'll feel sad
- I'm not the only one who sees it.
I'll miss the only vow
That I ever had
It was a time
- That's a lifetime of secrets.
You gotta trust not only yourself,
but your merry boy, too.
And I'll regret it.
- This whole family's held
together with their secrets.
- Hmm.
Yeah.
And I know them all.
After you've gone
After you've gone
Away
- So I suppose you and your cowboy think
you're gonna run this place some day, aye?
- That's no concern of yours.
(atmospheric piano music)
- You need my concern
The situation has changed.
I've got prospects.
- Not with my sister, you don't.
She's not interested.
Huh, you know, she did go to the dance.
With someone else.
(gun nuzzle clacking)
He's the last one
(gun fires)
Left through
Me my Lord
(atmospheric gospel music)
- [Eva] Tom.
Look at me, Tom.
- I'm gonna be alright, aren't I?
- [Eva] Yes, you're gonna be alright.
You're gonna be okay.
- Billy.
- [Billy] Bring an ambulance.
Ah, Jesus.
- [Tom] Stay with me just a bit longer.
- I'm not gonna leave you.
- Just look at me, Tom.
- Oh, Mum, there's a lot of blood around.
- [Eva] You're alright, Tom.
(Tom groaning)
It's okay.
Okay.
- I can't see well.
Mum.
Billy.
- Right here.
- [Tom] Tell 'em you need me.
(Eva cries)
- [Billy] Oh my, God, I love you.
- [Eva] Tom.
(cries) No, not my boy.
- That was the wrong thing.
- No.
- [Billy] You.
(fist thuds against face)
- Not my boy. (Crying)
(atmospheric gospel music)
(somber orchestral music)
(police sirens blaring)
(rain pattering)
(somber orchestral music)
(somber orchestral music)
- Why these?
- They're flowers from his garden.
They're the flowers he loved.
They're beautiful like him.
- Don't you think you've done
enough damage to the boy already?
- Damage?
It was the way he wanted to be.
He was, thank God, nothing like you.
- He will be remembered the way
I want him to be remembered.
- I put those there.
- Why are you still here?
This is my house,
my farm,
my wife
and my son.
- He's my son.
- [Frank] Eva?
Eva?
Makes perfect sense.
Good for nothing like his father, then.
You can have him.
He's no son of mine.
- Frank?
(somber orchestral music)
- [Eddie] Eva?
Eva?
Eva?
- I'm not going.
- We have to go, they're waiting.
- It's all lies, Eddie.
Layers and layers of lies.
Everything built on lies.
I can't do it anymore.
- We have to do this one
last time for Tom's sake.
- Why did you say it?
- I couldn't be his
father when he was alive,
damned if I can't be his father now.
I'll go along with Frank one last time,
but now he knows, now
he can't shove me aside.
Not now, not ever again.
We need to go, we have
to do this together.
- Tell them to go.
I want them to leave.
I just wanna be here with my boy.
- [Eddie] He's gone.
The hearse is gone.
We have to let him go, Eva.
Frank's gone ahead already.
- Without me?
- Billy can take us.
- Well, that's fitting.
He should sit beside us, then.
- Why?
He's the farmhand.
(atmospheric piano music)
- He's Tom's lover.
- And am I the last one to know this too?
- No, you're the only person I've told.
So,
are you gonna bury him
as his uncle,
or as his father?
- We need to go.
I have to say farewell to my son.
Are you coming with me?
(atmospheric orchestral music)
(birds chirping)
(truck engine whirring)
- Have you seen this rubbish?
Herein finds the death
of local boy Tom Francis
Henshaw accidental.
A visibly distressed Danny Birch
gave a heart rendering
account of the ordeal.
A gun goes off accidentally
while he cleaning it, right.
- You think he shot him deliberately?
- I wouldn't go around saying that.
That's supposition, that is.
- I know Frank, and he
wouldn't have allowed
that lot to go on.
That Danny Birch is a
bad'n just like his father.
- They did an autopsy and
that was their finding.
- You don't clean a gun while it's loaded.
That's the first rule there is.
- Is Frank keeping him on?
- Don't know, lad.
Bad business all around.
- Heard something about that
Henshaw boy and his farmhand.
(chuckles)
- What do you hear?
- That's just gossip, that is.
I won't have that rubbish talk here.
The lad's dead.
Have a little respect.
(truck engine whirring)
(atmospheric orchestral music)
- Hello.
I came to say my goodbye.
- Frank said you were leaving.
- Yes.
Will you be alright, Mrs. Henshaw?
- I'll be fine, thanks, Billy.
He loved you.
- I tried not to fall in love.
- That never works.
- I left someone before I hurt him.
Badly.
This time I stayed, and
I want to do something.
I want to kill him.
- No.
They'd happily crucify you.
- But I know the truth.
Why couldn't they see it?
- Because they weren't
looking for the truth.
- How can Frank just accept it?
- Imagine what they would have unearthed
if they went looking for the truth?
No, Frank doesn't want the truth.
- But I owe it to Tom.
He believed in the truth.
- I think the world will change, Billy.
It just didn't change in time for Tom.
- And in the meantime?
- In the meantime,
stay true to yourself.
That's what Tom would want.
- Is that what you're gonna do?
- Good luck, Billy.
You're a good man.
- He loved you too, Mrs. Henshaw.
(somber orchestral music)
(Billy crying)
(Billy sobbing)
(Billy sobbing)
(Billy sobbing)
(somber orchestral music)
(wind rustling)
(atmospheric orchestral music)
(truck engine whirring)
- Old man Malam's made me a partner.
He said I've got a good head
for the science of it all.
- Good for you.
- Yeah.
There's a lot more to seed
mix than most folks know.
- You'll be a rich man
before you know it, Louis.
- Thanks Mr. Henshaw.
Oh, and by the way,
old man Malam said to pass this on to you.
Said the landlady is an old friend of his.
Said she'd do you right.
- Thank Rex for us, would ya?
- Sure.
He says the place is nice and homey.
Big garden.
Lots of flowers.
(atmospheric piano music)
Alright, that's us, then.
- [Attendant] Thank you.
- [Louis] Mr. Henshaw.
- [Eddie] Thank you, Louis.
- Louis, would you do something for me?
- Certainly.
- Would you look out for Tess?
I hope one day she'll forgive me.
- Absolutely.
Maybe I could write to you.
Let you know how's she doing.
- Thank you, Louis.
- Good luck with the business, Louis.
- Thank you, Mr. Henshaw.
Good luck.
- Bye, Louis.
(atmospheric piano music)
(train chugging along tracks)
(train whistle blowing)
(wind rustling)
(train whistle blowing)
(atmospheric piano music)
(atmospheric piano music)
(shovel hacking at ground)
(atmospheric orchestral music)
- You're leaving.
- [Billy] Yep.
- You know, what you did was illegal.
You and Tom.
- You're lucky they called it an accident.
(Danny chuckling)
- You know, you can't run far enough
when you're running from yourself.
(atmospheric orchestral music)
- [Billy] East of Eden was
said to be a bad place.
So maybe you could say,
Tom and I found are truth,
somewhere West of Eden.
(atmospheric orchestral music)
My life took on many twists and turns
in the years that followed.
I kept moving on,
but I believe I did stay true to myself.
The world did change.
And though people and
places came and went,
I never forgot Tom.
(atmospheric orchestral music)
(atmospheric blues guitar)
- [Boy] Stick 'em up.
- You cheated.
- You just lost.
- No, you're supposed to wait longer
before you start the attack.
- You just don't like losing.
(atmospheric acoustic guitar)
Is that him?
- [Boy] Yeah.
- Is he sleeping?
- Shh.
- Is he a real life cowboy?
- [Boy] Yeah, he is a real life cowboy.
- Go on, off you go.
- Oh, mom.
- [Boy] Man, I wish my uncle was a cowboy.
- Oh, yeah, we'll talk to him later.
C'mon.
- Uncle Billy.
- Aroha.
How was the drive?
- It was a long way, Uncle,
but you know I always
love to come and see you.
- Where's Ryan?
- He's inside talking to Gary.
Still got the old hat.
- You know I like it
better than the others.
(Aroha laughing)
- Instead of a new hat this time,
I'm gonna fix that one.
(Billy chuckles)
I wanna hear the story about
why you love that hat so much.
(atmospheric orchestral music)
- Been awhile since I told it.
- Well, I've got all afternoon to hear it.
- Alright, then.
It was in the summer of 1960.
Your dad and I were
working different shifts
at the engineering factory.
(chickens clucking)
Your father was a bit of a nice
Snooker player in those days.
(Aroha laughs)
(upbeat rock music)
(Snooker balls click)
- You ready?
- Yep.
- Good.
- [Man] Hey.
Not so fast, Williams.
- You guys still being
bad losers about Saturday?
- This aint about that.
- It's how you strike the ball.
Joe's got the best backspin here.
Everyone knows it.
- Next time I'll wrap that
fucking cue around your head.
- Well, maybe you guys should
just learn how to play better.
- Yeah, tough guy.
- This is about you, not your big brother.
You and that piece of
scum standing right there.
Smart ass little sod.
(fist whacks against face)
(fist whacks against face)
(Billy groans)
(Billy groaning)
(Billy coughing)
(foot thuds into body)
(Billy yelping)
(foot thuds into chest)
(Billy gasping)
- Hey.
Break it up.
Shift's over, boys.
Get yourselves out of here.
(Billy gasping)
Up you get, lad.
You bloody idiot.
(Billy gasping)
- Bastards.
- Pete, a word.
Normally not my business,
but when it's affecting my workers.
- Mr. McKinley, could we change shifts?
- It's not the shift that needs changing.
His brother's in the next shift, yeah?
- Mr. McKinley, there is no
need to get him involved.
- I run a tight ship.
If I hadn't of known his father,
he would have already got the sack.
So,
I respect him.
No more trouble.
From either of ya.
- Absolutely not, sir.
(Billy groaning)
(atmospheric piano music)
(water streaming)
(upbeat doo-wop music)
- [Billy] It's not as bad as it looks.
It smells good.
- How much longer they got you on nights?
- Until the end of the month.
- Joe, you could swap with Billy.
Well, then that way he
could be on day shift.
- It doesn't work like that.
I'm not management, I
can't just walk in there
and change things around.
Anyway,
what reason would I give?
- Well, can you talk to the boys then?
- To you, he's my little brother.
To everyone else he's a, he's a grown man.
He's got two choices.
He knows what they are.
- I'm thinking of moving away.
- Well there's a good idea.
Maybe you should.
I used to be misunderstood.
- Look, you don't need to do that.
There's plenty of other jobs around.
- Let him go.
It'd be better for the both of us.
- [Phylis] Can you stop
talking like that, please?
- Mum,
it's alright.
He's right.
I've got a job, anyway.
- Where?
- As a farmhand.
- What do you know about farming?
- He can learn.
- [Phylis] How far away is this work?
- [Joe] It's a farm ma,
it's gonna be out of town.
- (Phylis) I was asking Billy.
I used to be misunderstood
Misunderstood
- Joe's right.
I know enough and what I
don't know I can learn.
- And how far away, Billy?
- [Billy] About six hours drive.
- And when?
I used to be misunderstood
Misunderstood, I used
to be misunderstood
- Five weeks.
- Sounds good to me.
(atmospheric piano music)
(birds chirping)
(atmospheric piano music)
- Billy?
- I told you not to come here.
- You can't go.
- Would you keep your voice down?
- You can't just dump me here like this.
- Back
off,
Pete.
- You're the one who told
met not to walk away,
but to stand up for myself.
You're a coward, Billy.
You know that, aye?
Your fancy clothes change
nothing, Billy Williams.
(atmospheric piano music)
(train whistle blowing)
(train chugging along tracks)
(train chugging along track)
(train chugging along track)
(train whistle blowing)
(atmospheric piano music)
- [Attendant] Last stop.
Last stop.
(train bells ringing)
(atmospheric piano music)
(cicadas chirping)
- Can take you as far as Pikes Road.
About 20 miles south.
- Thanks.
South's where I'm headed.
- No, just chuck 'em in the back.
Long way from home, lad?
- Yeah.
I came as far as I could down the line.
- Not a holiday then?
- No.
It's for work.
- Most folks go to town when
they're looking for work.
- I got a job as a farmhand.
I'm Billy by the way.
Billy Williams.
- Stan.
Farmhand, huh?
You ever worked on a farm?
- My uncle breeds horses.
I stayed with him in the school holidays.
I'm a good horseman.
- Right you are, then.
Who's farm will you be workin' on?
- The Henshaw's.
Do you know it?
- Everyone knows their farm.
- You know the Henshaws then?
- Yeah.
Let's just say I'm a
friend of old man Birch.
Neighborly at points.
- Thanks.
- (chuckles) Good luck.
(atmospheric piano music)
(birds chirping)
(wind rustling)
(atmospheric guitar music)
- [Billy] Thanks.
(upbeat guitar music)
(birds chirping)
(atmospheric ballad)
(knocking on door)
(knocking on door)
(door creaks open)
I could not run away
- Hello?
(atmospheric ballad)
Hello?
I'd like to leave it all
Behind and go and find
A place
- Anybody home?
(atmospheric ballad)
Hello?
(Eva moaning)
(Eva moaning)
(Eddie moaning)
- Uh, Oh.
Oh, God, Eddie.
Eddie.
- Bugger off, you little pervert.
Get your clothes on.
I'll deal with the little shit.
- [Radio Announcer] That was Arthur Peel
singing Blue Skies.
You're listening to 2YA.
Now here's another Arthur
Peel favorite, April Showers.
(atmospheric ballad)
- [Eddie] Jesus.
Who's this?
- Mr. Henshaw?
- Yes.
Who are you?
- Ah, this must be
Billy, our new farmhand.
- Billy Williams.
Pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Henshaw.
- [Eva] Yes.
- How long have you been waiting here?
- Ah, I just arrived sir.
Just as you came through the door.
Sir, is there anywhere
I could put my bags?
- Ah, it's confusing, this is Mr. Henshaw,
but he's my husband's brother.
Frank's across Cold Water Creek.
He'll be back at dinner.
- Not a country boy, then?
- No, sir.
- Frank's little joke.
Yeah.
- Look, you've probably had a long trip.
You need to freshen up?
- [Danny] Who's this cowboy?
- Billy.
I'm the new farmhand.
- Yeah?
Good, me and Frank could do
with a bit of muscle around here.
I'll show you around.
If that's alright with you, Mrs. Henshaw?
- Yes, that's fine.
- Danny Birch.
Head driver.
Follow me, cowboy.
- You knew about this, then?
- I didn't think he was
coming 'til next week.
- Well thanks for telling me then.
- Don't take it like that.
- He's a city boy, a merry city boy
dressed like a fucking cowboy.
I swear, I'll kill him.
- Eddie, try and calm down.
- You tell Frank he's gotta go.
- I'm the last person
Frank will listen to,
and you know that.
- I won't let him do this to me.
- He owns most of the farm.
He can do what he likes.
It'll be alright.
- He's an inexperienced farmhand.
Dad would never have agreed to that.
(Eva laughing)
Love, I adore you
Hope never to bore you.
I'm done
If I can't
Have it so
Tell me the truth
Have you been
With another man
- A bit early, isn't it?
Lover's tiff?
I don't know who's more pathetic,
you or
me.
She plays you like a
fiddle, Eddie Henshaw.
Like a bloody fiddle.
Tell me are you coming home tonight
(atmospheric ballad)
I know that
I have done wrong
But you know
I've loved you all along
(atmospheric piano music)
- Eva?
- [Eva] Mrs. Henshaw to you.
- Strap.
- What do you want, Danny?
- To take your daughter out.
- She's not interested in you.
At least the girl's got that much sense.
- Yeah, well we don't
always get what we want.
- [Eva] What do you mean by that?
- Tell me, after so many
years as to wear that fire,
is it the risk or the secret
that keeps you both burning for more?
You made such a pretty pair.
There's a local dance
on at the end of summer.
Tess likes dances.
Think about it.
Ah, and I'll see you at dinner tonight?
Assume he will be there to
welcome the new farmhand.
(apple crunches)
(atmospheric piano music)
(atmospheric piano music)
(atmospheric piano music)
- You're staring.
- No, just captivated by that stray lock
of hair gently caressing your cheek.
- Get lost, Eddie.
- Oh well, I better get back to work
or Frank will dock my pay.
- [Billy] Do you need a hand?
- [Danny] No, as good as gold.
- I met Eva earlier.
You must be her daughter?
- Must I?
I presume you met Eddie, then?
- Huh,
yep.
- It's about a five hour
roundtrip to move the stock.
- [Eddie] Right.
- That's what you'll be
doing every Thursday.
You can ride then?
- Yeah.
- Eddie's back's too bad.
We all know that's a crock of shit.
(atmospheric ballad)
I think you're gonna do
alright for city boy.
- No, Frank, don't.
(gun fires) (dog yelps)
(dog barking)
(atmospheric orchestral music)
- [Tom] He shot Jack.
- [Eva] No.
- [Tom] Yes.
- [Eva] I've gotta go.
- No, c'mon he's gone.
- No.
- There's nothing you can do.
- No.
- No.
- C'mon, Mom.
(Eva crying)
- What happened?
- He finally did it, huh?
- Shut up, Danny.
- Billy Williams.
- Tom.
(atmospheric piano music)
- Now, my man,
this is your seat.
Guest of honor always sits here.
- To the guest of honor.
- Eddie.
- That's enough.
- Don't touch me.
- Let us say Grace.
We thank you Lord for the
food we're about to receive,
and the love that binds us.
May your grace fill our
thoughts and actions, amen.
- Amen.
- Amen.
- Amen.
(atmospheric piano music)
- What time do you call this?
- I buried Jack.
- Had to be done.
It's a bloody farm dog.
- He was Eva's boy.
- Huh, it was the runt from your bitch.
Put up with the useless bugger for years.
C'mon, eat up.
Food's getting cold.
(atmospheric piano music)
By the light
Of the silvery moon
I want to spoon
To my honey I'll croon love's tune
By the moon
Keep a shining in June
Your silvery beams will
bring love's dreams
- [Diane] What are you cooking?
- I'm making a sweet chutney.
- [Diane] These are best for that.
Got a real bite to them.
Have you got onions?
And raisins as well?
(bell ringing)
- Oh. (Giggling).
- Oh, and you'll need
some spices, we have those.
- Can I have a pound of peas, please?
- Doug.
- Maggie, Diane, lovely as ever.
- It's been too many years.
Keep a shining in June
- [Diane] How's your dad?
- Ah, not too good.
- It's always hard, isn't it?
- That should cover everything.
- Are you staying for the wedding?
- Yes, I thought I might.
It'd be good to catch up with everyone.
- [Diane] You'll find those ethels
will really add that something extra.
- I'll bring you a jar.
- Ladies, are you not
going to introduce me?
- [Maggie] Doug, this is Ruth.
- [Doug] Pleasure.
You're not from around here?
- I am.
- But you're not born here.
- No.
- Well, I thought as much.
- I have lived here awhile, though.
- Well as they say, it takes
at least two generations to be from here.
- Stop it.
Take no notice of him, he's only joking.
- It's true though, aye?
- Well, had you grown up here,
I never would have forgotten
such a beautiful face.
- Doug, always the charmer.
She's already taken.
- Pity.
Well, so Diane, tell us all the gossip?
Well, there's no one better
to get all the latest,
but you probably already know that.
- Hasn't your mother
been sending in letters?
- [Doug] (laughs) I want the juicy stuff,
not the abridged version she's sends me.
I swear her correspondents are so brief,
I could gleam more from a telegram.
(Maggie chuckles)
- [Maggie] Here's your change.
- Let me help you with that.
- Oh, thank you, but I'm fine.
- No, I insist.
After you.
I'll see you both soon, then.
- Bye.
- Bye.
(birds chirping)
- They exaggerate.
- Thanks for your help.
- [Doug] Well, I might
see you around then?
- [Ruth] Mm.
(atmospheric piano music)
(car engine whirring)
(truck engine whirring)
(chickens clucking)
(atmospheric piano music)
- [Eva] You seem to have a real knack
with the horses, Billy.
He's very fond of you.
- [Billy] Maybe a little too much.
- Here you are.
- [Eva] Don't be late for dinner.
- Yep.
Hi, Billy.
- Hi.
- See you at the dinner.
(Tom chuckles)
(cow mooing)
- Haven't done too bad a job here.
Make a farmer out of you yet, Son.
- Frank?
- Thought you were getting
the cake sorted out?
- [Eva] That was earlier this morning.
- Pass me that half inch socket, will ya?
- You said we'd talk over
things when I got back.
- [Frank] Busy.
Besides,
nothing more to be said.
- He refuses to do it.
- Uh, sulking like a child.
- He doesn't know what to say.
- I'll give him a hand if he needs one.
Or perhaps you could?
- Why are you forcing this?
They never got on.
I don't see the point.
- The point is we all
have to endure situations
we're not entirely happy with.
We do it not for ourselves but for others.
It's what adults do.
It's our duty.
Besides, Alan's accepted that
Tom will be his best man.
- He's obliged to, you're
paying for his wedding.
- I'm paying for your niece's wedding.
He's more than happy with the suggestion.
Tom will do our family the honor,
representing us as his best man.
- It's all about duty with us, isn't it?
- Did you expect something more?
- Tom does.
- I did once, made a fool of me.
Tom's best man.
He'll be delivering the speech.
(tractor engine whirring)
And that's that.
- Maybe you shouldn't hold onto everything
so tightly before you
squeeze the life out of it.
(church bells ringing)
(gathering cheering)
(gathering chattering)
(spoon clinking on glass)
- [Alan] Ah,
first,
I would like to thank Kathy
for marrying me.
- [Reggie] So would we.
(gathering laughing)
- Thanks, Reggie.
Ah, we would both like to
thank you all for, for coming,
and making this such a special day.
I would especially like to thank
my lovely wife's Uncle Frank and Aunt Eva.
- Here, here.
- Here, here.
- It's more than we could have hoped for.
Thank you, Uncle Frank for
paying for all of this,
and Auntie Eva for organizing
absolutely everything.
You're an inspiration to us both.
- Here, here.
- Thank you.
- Yes, and if we could
be anything close to what
you two are after 20 years,
we will be truly happy.
- Here, here.
- Here.
- [Alan] To Frank and Eva.
- To Frank and Eva.
(glasses clinking)
- [Alan] Ah,
right.
I shall now call upon
the best man.
No need to be shy, aye? (Laughing)
(gathering chuckling)
- [Tom] I'd like to welcome
the new Mr. And Mrs. Radcliffe,
and to thank our lovely bridesmaids.
You all look beautiful.
- [Man] Here, here.
- What's he doing?
- [Eva] I don't know.
- Most of you here know,
Alan, for many years
has tried to win my cousin over.
And so here we are.
But what is thing called
marriage really about?
As I look around, one thing I know
it shouldn't be about
is increasing status,
or pleasing family or friends.
No, I believe the only reason anyone
should vow to commit the
rest of their life to someone
is because they love them,
and they cannot imagine spending
the rest of their life without them.
So, I would like to propose a toast.
And finally, a quote from Oscar Wilde.
- [Frank] What?
- [Eva] I don't know why he said that.
- "Keep love in your heart.
"For life without it
"is like a summer's garden
when the flowers are dead."
(gathering chattering)
- What was he talking about?
- [Eva] I don't know
anything about it, Frank.
- Was that what he was meant to say?
(atmospheric piano music)
(gathering chattering)
- Well now, Tom certainly knows
how to kick over the beehive.
Is he courting anyone here?
- No, but I'm sure there's
plenty of time for that.
- Mom always said he was
too pretty for a boy.
It wouldn't hurt you to
encourage him a little.
(atmospheric piano music)
(gathering chattering and laughing)
If tell you sweetheart
I'm in love
With you
Let me feel you whisper
That you love me
- [Doug] Eddie?
- [Eddie] I see you made it then.
How's your dad?
- [Doug] Oh, bearing up.
It's good to see ya.
It must be 17 years at least.
- More like 19.
- Oh, where does the time go, aye?
- [Eddie] Are you still
in Melbourne, then?
- [Doug] Yep, got my own business.
Making carbon liner.
New subdivisions popping up everywhere.
More work than you can poke a stick at.
- [Eddie] So things are going well, then?
- [Doug] You shoulda come.
- [Eddie] Frank was in Guadalcanal.
I had to look after the fam.
- [Doug] Yeah, you got yourself
bogged down in cow shit.
- [Eddie] You left a mess behind.
- Sorry about that, old chap.
Dealership with big ticket
items, it's always a bit risky.
As you know, we'll not all cut out
to business men, now are we?
- It was your idea.
- Well, they were good tractors, mind.
Lucky for you, you had
the farm to fall back on.
Now how are the dog trots?
Still winning every show?
- Yeah.
Most of them.
- Eva.
- [Eva] How are you, Doug?
- Well, better for seeing you.
(Eva laughing)
You don't mind me saying that, do you?
Well, allow me.
- Thanks.
- What the hell was Tom doing?
- He changed it.
- He doesn't even like Alan.
Why was he best man?
- It was Frank's idea.
- Huh.
- That was an interesting speech.
(Eva chuckles nervously)
- Hey, Frank?
You know, now that we're
related and all that,
I thought, maybe I could come over,
and we could talk over revitalizing
that stretch along Cold Water Creek?
- [Woman] I told you,
I wanted a decent gin.
This one's drowning in cordial.
- [Waiter] I'm sorry, I'll
get you a new one, then.
- [Woman] Yes, thank you.
- Do you think she ever found out?
- No, lucky for us.
- She complained to Gordon's,
and they gave her a whole crate.
At least that's what Mary said.
- So, she did alright, then?
- I can't believe you
thought she wouldn't notice.
It might have looked like
gin but it tasted like water.
- It was a 50/50 split.
(Eva laughing)
it was a try,
and we had a good time, didn't we?
- You can say that again.
- I can't believe that's Mary's mother.
I used to have such a crush on that girl.
Are you in touch with the gang?
- No.
- Oh, pity.
They were wild parties.
- Yep.
- They were good times.
- Sure were.
- I always thought I'd get an invite
to a do like this from you two.
(atmospheric piano ballad)
So, happy these days, Eva?
Life of marital bliss?
- [Frank] Excuse me.
- Frank.
- Doug.
A long time since we've
seen you in these parts.
- There's too much money
to be made in Melbourne.
- I'm sure there is.
Will you excuse us?
- Lovely seeing you, Doug.
- You too, Eva.
- [Frank] Can you at least
pretend to be my wife?
- [Eva] I was getting a
drink and they were there.
- Of course you were.
I can't believe he's even
talking to that bastard.
He's nothing more than a con man.
He left a mess behind him.
Has he forgotten about that?
- I told you not to go with
the terrible (mumbles).
Looks like you paid
dearly for that year off.
- Cause you left for good.
- [Chuckles] I had nothing to stay for.
(atmospheric piano ballad)
- I think Frank's the one.
- Yep.
- He's a roll in the green?
- He is.
You can grab him now, he's over there.
- Ah, here's our man. (Chuckles)
- Ah, gentlemen.
What's all this then?
- Frank ole boy, the, ah, chaps and I
have just been talking about Thomas.
His opening from the
District's Farmers Federation,
and, uh, surmising who might
make a good replacement.
- And we all think you would.
- Well,
now, I'm honored.
- It's common knowledge
you and your brother
have the best farm in the district, Frank.
Brothers you know today,
an example to us all.
- And not forgetting
your exemplary bravery
in the Salums.
- Indeed, our very own
- Indeed.
- war hero.
- Thank you.
- Frank,
you're a good family man,
and, ah. We think you
and your lovely wife here
will do wonders for the federation.
- I'm sure Mrs. Henshaw would only be
to proud to stand alongside you.
- Of course.
- So, would you put yourself forward then?
- Well, gentlemen, what can I say?
I think I shall.
- Oh, excellent, this requires a toast.
Henry?
- Waiter?
- Dutch courage.
(atmospheric piano ballad)
- A love letter?
- No, a speech I didn't give.
- You spoke your mind instead.
- I'll pay for it.
- So you're Frank's boy?
- Yep.
- If you don't mind me asking,
how old are you?
- 19.
- 20 soon, then.
- End of July.
- July?
Bit on the long side.
Tough Judy, that one.
Air Force didn't get much time off.
Left in September 1944,
well over two years.
I'm sure you made him proud on his return.
- I suppose so.
- [Doug] I'm sure you did.
- Good that you had Eddie on the farm.
To keep things ticking over.
- I suppose so.
- Brave man.
- I noticed you brought a
new seed line in this year?
- Yes, recommended to me by my supplier.
I see you bought up the old Miller place?
- Ooh, word gets around, don't it?
- Not much passes by me.
Your old man, how's he getting on?
- Same as always.
Another day older, more stubborn with it.
- So this, uh, this
seed you're now using...
- [Alan] Ah.
- [Man] Eva, one.
- [Alan] I think it's the
shareholder's privilege
to get a head start.
- [Eva] Thank you.
- Frank's decision in the Port of Rabaul
saved mine and hundreds of men's lives.
He's like a brother to me.
Running the federation would
put you both in the spotlight.
I'm sure you'll understand,
he'll need your support.
You do get my meaning, don't you?
- Thank you, Henry.
- Good girl.
- Giving Mrs. Henshaw tips already, Henry?
- [Henry] Ah, well.
- A toast to Frank.
To
Luck and success.
To Frank.
- To Frank.
- To Frank.
- To Frank.
- Thank you.
(gathering applauds)
- Thank you.
Thank you.
And now there is a special request.
A warm hand for Ed.
(gathering applauds)
(atmospheric violin music)
- Mum, I'm feeling out of sorts.
I think I might head home.
- [Eva] What?
- I'll call Billy to pick me up.
- [Eva] What's wrong?
- It's a headache, that's all.
- [Eva] I'm not surprised
after what you said.
- He's a weasel.
What I said was true.
- You should have lied.
- I don't lie.
- Tom, sometimes people
don't tell the truth
because the truth is
more hurtful than a lie.
- I thought you'd be on my side.
- What was that all about?
- He says he's sick.
(atmospheric violin music)
- He plays well.
If he plays for you.
- You talk in riddles.
What do you want?
- You're a good woman.
- What?
- You deserve better.
(atmospheric violin music)
(gathering applauding)
- [Doug] You missed your vocation.
- [Eddie] Hmm.
- Hello, again.
- [Ruth] We met at Mack's Orchard.
- Doug, this is my wife, Ruth.
- Well, well, well.
- Uncle Eddie, are you taking Tom home?
- I didn't know he was going home.
- He says he has a headache.
- [Eddie] Looks like he's got a ride.
- [Frank] Well, what's all this?
- Please, he might listen to you.
- Excuse us.
- Billy's taking me home.
- Children, they'll drive you crazy,
but you gotta love 'em, right?
Bet you'd make a wonderful mother, Ruth.
- I've got a headache.
- I'll bet you have.
- I'm feeling sick.
- Headstrong and foolhardy,
that's what you are.
- Oh, c'mon, Frank, not here.
- You keep out of our business.
- The boy says he's sick.
- I know when my own son's sick,
and he's not sick.
- You come here and you
spout all that rubbish
at your cousin's...
- Stop, Frank.
- I've only just started.
We'll finish it when we get home.
- I'm not staying.
- You'll do as I say.
He's got to learn to take
responsibility for himself.
He can't be the big man one minute,
and hide behind your
apron strings the next.
Well, now you're here,
you might as well come
around and meet everyone.
I'll get Danny to introduce you.
- One day.
- [Eva] Please, Eddie,
people are watching.
- It's getting intolerable.
- [Eva] Not here, please, Eddie.
- Okay, everyone.
We have a special item from
Auntie Eva's sister Janice.
So, let's give her a big hand.
(gathering applauding)
(atmospheric piano music)
In the good ole summertime
In the good ole summertime
Rolling through the shady lands
- I won't let him control me, Tess.
- It's just his way.
- I don't like his way.
He doesn't treat you like that.
- 'Cause I don't take him head on,
and I don't give speeches
like you did tonight.
- I spoke the truth, that's all.
In the good ole summertime
- Do you like Billy?
- Yes, he seems nice.
- Good.
- I like him, but not that much.
- I do.
Through the shady lands
- What are you saying?
- You know what I'm saying.
- You just haven't met
the right girl, yet.
And that's a very good sign
- Will you always love me, Tess?
No matter what?
- [Tess] I wish you
wouldn't talk like that.
- I'd always back you.
- We're looked up to you around here.
We have a standing in this community.
(Tom chuckling)
Can you imagine the damage
you'd bring to our family?
Stop it, Tom.
- Our family is the
biggest lie around here.
- Loyalty means a lot to me.
- And truth to me.
- [Tess] Be careful, Tom.
- How's the headache?
- Ole Billy here was concerned enough
to suggest we find out.
- I've got some Disprin if you want some?
- Like a good ole Boy Scout.
- Thanks.
- I'll get you
a glass of water.
(atmospheric piano ballad)
- He's a good farmhand.
Be a shame to lose him.
- [Tom] Does he not like it here?
- [Danny] No, he seems happy enough.
Make sure you don't burn yourself.
- [Billy] I got cold water from the tap.
- He's trying to be prophetic,
but really he's just pathetic.
I never really had a headache.
Just wanted to get away from all this.
- [Billy] Ah, I should go.
- Stay.
He hasn't got a hope, watch her.
Put those feet
Upon the seat
Of a bicycle made for two
- There, I told ya.
Well, don't feel sorry for him.
Where'd he go?
- By the drinks.
- Now what a surprise.
My Auntie's drunk again.
Hey, did you see that?
He's gaming on her.
Do you think she's keen on him?
(atmospheric piano music)
Now let's see what Eddie does.
There look, he doesn't care.
- But Frank does.
- Cares about Ruth?
- No, about who he's going outside to see.
- You're good at this.
Welcome to the circus.
- Thought I'd escape, too.
- You played beautifully in there.
- It was for you.
I give you that.
It's always for you, kiddo.
(atmospheric piano music)
(cows mooing)
(atmospheric violin music)
- Hey, Billy?
- [Billy] Yep?
- Come in.
- I need to change.
- You're fine just as you are.
Come in.
(atmospheric piano music)
I need to ask you some things in private.
- Is something wrong?
Look, I'm sorry I haven't dug
up the vegetable garden yet.
I know you wanted it done before Autumn,
but we've just been so
busy with the master.
- I'm not worried about that.
Of course you'll do that for me.
You've been here a few good months now.
What do you think of Frank?
- He's a good farmer.
- But is he a good man?
(chuckling) It's okay.
You can say it.
He's a bully.
We all know it, and we
all go along with it,
but what do you think is worse,
be the bully, be disloyal
or become the victim?
You are none of those.
You're different.
Why did you come here?
Please.
Don't go, just please sit down.
(atmospheric piano music)
- I came here to learn how to run a farm.
- It's because that's
what they want me to do.
Well, no.
That's what Frank wants.
- What does Mrs. Henshaw want?
- The only thing my
mother wants is my uncle.
I don't blame her, but she
shouldn't fuck in the house.
Not in Frank's bed.
Stupid bugger still loves
her in his own strange way.
- Why do you call him Frank?
Never Father?
(atmospheric piano music)
(birds chirping)
- One day when he finds
out who I really am,
he'll not call me his son.
- I'm not sure I know what you mean.
- You will.
And I think you're gonna
make a good farmer.
- Look, dinner will be
on the table in minutes.
I've, I need to change.
I should probably go.
- Of course, yes.
You need to change.
I'll see you at dinner.
(atmospheric piano music)
- Zip me up.
(zipper zipping up)
- The weather's turning.
I don't wanna to keep doing this.
Hiding like this.
- It has to be this way.
- The kids are nearly adults, Eva.
- We have to keep things
as they are for Tom.
He's not ready yet.
- Tom doesn't wanna work on this farm.
This place will destroy him
just like it's destroyed me.
- It's what Frank wants.
- Yeah, we all have to
do what Frank wants.
- Not always.
(atmospheric piano music)
- Do you wanna leave this place?
- I want to be with you.
(birds chirping)
(bees buzzing)
- [Eva] Hello, Jenny.
- Hi.
- Hi.
(atmospheric piano music)
- Hope you've left enough for me.
- Auntie.
Ah, I can, I can get something else
if there's not enough left.
- [Eva] Of course not, I'm teasing you.
- Oh.
- Eva has a standing order for this.
We always have some put aside for her.
- You look stunning as always.
- Thank you.
We opened that new hall in town today.
- Did you get to cut the ribbon?
- Yes, and listen to endless speeches.
- You must be so proud of Uncle Frank.
- What's the occasion?
- Oh, there isn't.
- Newlyweds, isn't it wonderful?
(Eva giggles)
That'll be five and six.
- Do you think he'll approve?
There's still a few buds to bloom.
- Alright, let's have a look.
- They say women are the finicky ones.
- They do.
- They are.
- Well, the look's for him
and the perfume's for me.
- He loves his lilies, doesn't he?
- He does.
I can never walk past them
without thinking of him.
- Oh, that's so lovely.
- It's not just newlyweds then.
(Eva giggles)
(Diane and Maggie giggle)
- These are for Tom.
- Frank doesn't believe in cut flowers.
- [Maggie] Afternoon Mrs. Fielding.
- Afternoon, girls.
- Frank's outside.
- Oh, right.
Think I'll go have a quick chat
with him before I head home.
Good afternoon, ladies.
- Bye.
- Bye.
- He's a young man in love.
- He's a young man with ambition.
- Oh, I think he's sweet.
I'm all for romance.
Your Tom must be a romantic.
Lucky the girl that wins him over.
He'll be keen to go to this, I dare say.
- I dare say he will.
- Aren't they lovely.
The lily, a flower with so many meanings.
For the Christians, they're
a symbol of innocence,
purity,
piety.
Now the Greeks, they
saw the Lily as a symbol
of eroticism
and sexuality.
He's a talented young man, your Tom.
- [Maggie] Hmm, that'll get them talking.
The whole town will know
before the sun is down.
The dance.
(Eva chuckles)
- Tell Tom I'd like him to
paint me a picture sometime.
- I will.
I'm sure he'd love to show off his talent.
- Hmm, takes after his
uncle then, does he?
- Frank's waiting out there.
I better go.
Bye.
- Bye.
- [Diane] Bye.
- The golden couple.
Oh, how he swept her off her feet.
They were the envy of everyone.
- Um, still are.
- Yes, they put up a good
show, that's for sure.
Well, huh, better be off.
Can't stand here gossiping
all day. (Chuckles)
- Bye Mrs. Fielding.
- Bye.
- (whistling) It's a
beautiful new car, Frank.
- It certainly is.
- And I hear you got some big sponsors
for the A&P Show this year?
- Indeed we have.
Might turn out to be the
biggest show yet. (Chuckles)
- Ah, huh..
Hey, ah, about that stretch
along Cold Water Creek.
- Mm-hmm.
- Ah,
I've drawn up some plans
if you've got some time
to take a look at them?
- [Frank] Oh, yeah.
- I thought we could try
some new ideas down there.
Plow it up a little bit,
plant a good crop of lupins,
and disk it back in with a dose
of that new soil conditioner.
Ah, Reggie said it worked a trick for him.
- Yeah, yeah, good.
Sounds good.
- Yes.
(bell ringing)
- [Louis] Afternoon, Mrs. Henshaw, ladies.
- Afternoon Louis.
- Hi.
- [Frank] Here we go.
- I was just on my way
to pick up an order.
We're having people over for dinner.
- That's nice.
- Yes.
- Um, see you soon?
- [Eva] Yes.
- Yeah, see you around.
- He's a lovely young man.
- If we'd not been here,
he would have asked you.
- But Dad doesn't approve of him, Mum.
Jenny wants Tom to ask her to go,
but I told her he doesn't like dancing.
- Well, we'll have to see what
we can do about that, then.
- I so badly want to go.
What if no one asks me?
- We can always buy our own tickets.
- You could.
That way you wouldn't have to go
with the first boy that asks you.
Of course, you will have to let the one
that you want to know you're going,
that you're going unaccompanied.
See there's always a
way around these things.
And a little bit of Tom goes a long way.
We better be off.
- I think your mother's wonderful.
See you again soon.
- [Tess] Okay, bye.
(car engine whirring)
- [Alan] Cheerio.
(car engine whirring)
- See ya later.
- Bye.
(atmospheric piano music)
- [Danny] Hey, Louis, help
me out with these seeds.
- [Louis] Hey, ole Danny, looking good.
- [Man] Your boss is doing alright
for himself by the looks.
- [Danny] Yep.
- And how are you, Danny boy?
- [Danny] Ah, good thank you, Mr. Malem.
- That's good to hear.
And how's your dear mother?
- Still livin' with your Aunt?
- Ah, yes.
- Yeah, sweet woman.
- Ah, you've turned
into a good hard worker.
- [Danny] Huh, thank you.
- Now old Frankie knows how to pick 'em.
How's Mrs. Henshaw?
- Ah, keeping well, yes.
- [Man] Yes.
- Lovely lady, Mrs. Henshaw.
- [Laughs] Lou's got
an eye on her daughter,
haven't you, Lou?
(Louis sighs
(atmospheric piano music)
(man laughs)
- [Louis] Better get the
rest of this seed unloaded.
- How's Frank finding this new seed mix?
- Ah, excellent, I believe.
- Like I told him, it's,
um, late flowering.
Should be good for all year round.
- True test will be next summer then?
- [Man] All finished, boss.
- Good, aye.
Give my best wishes to your dear mother.
- Will do.
- [Louis] Bye.
- [Man] Cheerio, mate.
- [Danny] See you later.
- [Louis] When does
Danny's father get out?
- [Man] It was a lot of money.
I heard another three years, yeah?
- [Rex] That happens to someone around,
it's sad to see a good family pulled.
(atmospheric orchestral music)
(truck engine whirring)
(atmospheric orchestral music)
(water splashing)
- Hey, cowboy.
- Sir?
- Always been meaning to ask you,
how does a city boy like you learn
to ride like he was born to it?
- My people weren't always from the city.
- [Frank] Your people?
- What is it an army or some
weird (mumbles), cowboy?
- [Frank] You're just full of shit.
- My uncle taught me.
- He taught you well.
Don't mind him.
He thinks this place should be his.
My father bought it from his grandfather.
The old bugger was a drunkard.
Gambling man.
His oldest son died at Passchendaele.
He let the place got to pot.
My old man worked hard to
bring it back up to scratch.
I've increased the yield twofold.
I reckon it'll be the best farm
around here by the time my son gets it.
You haven't done a bad job,
even if I do say so myself.
- What about Eddie?
- What about him?
- Will he get his half?
- He's got no half.
He had some debts and I paid them.
Might have a third if he's lucky.
I figure he's already got
enough of what's mine.
He only works here cause I let him.
Anyway, what we he do with it?
He has no instinct for farming.
And that drunken third ole wife of his.
Who would he leave it to, huh?
It's the way it has to be.
(clicks cheek)
(atmospheric piano music)
(birds chirping)
(brush scraping against mane)
(thunder rumbling)
(horses neighing)
- Hello.
How's the garden?
(thunder rumbling)
(horse neighing)
- Good.
(horse neighing)
Just getting another load of hay.
- Good.
- Do you need a hand?
- Hold her steady.
(thunder rumbling)
(horse neighing)
- Hey.
- Yep?
- We need you by the
creek, tractor's stuck.
Bad timing?
- Oh, I, I was...
- Is she good to go?
(thunder rumbling)
- Yeah, we're finished here.
(horse neighing)
- Good.
Storm's coming.
As the say, better make a hay
while the sun still shines.
- [Frank] She's workin' down.
Have to wench her out.
Crankshaft's gone.
Dig out that soil, I'll
get the other tractor.
(shovels thudding into the ground)
(thunder rumbling)
- [Danny] Planning on staying?
- Don't see why not.
- [Danny] Well, I can.
- What do you mean?
- [Danny] I'm not gonna let you and Tom
take the family down.
- I don't know what you're talking about.
(tractor engine whirring)
- Yeah, you do.
Is that what happened last time?
(thunder rumbling)
Hey.
Is that why you came to work here?
As far away from home as you can?
You're a long way from home.
Farms not a place for a couple of homos.
- I'm not going.
This time I'm staying.
- Not if I can help it.
I'm not gonna sit while you
and that pretty boy take down Frank.
- Here boys.
(chain clanking)
Put your backs into it, boys.
It'll be dark soon.
There's beer in the fridge
for when you're finished.
- Right ya are.
- Thanks.
- Yep.
Yep.
- [Frank] Alright.
(thunder rumbling)
(chain creaking)
(tractor engine whirring)
(birds chirping)
(atmospheric piano music)
(wire scraping)
- I thought you might want something
to eat and drink?
(atmospheric piano music)
You've been up here all afternoon.
When we were kids, Tess and I used
to come up here and watch the clouds.
At first they just look like
white blobs floating across the sky,
but
after awhile, you'll see them.
- See what?
- The pictures in the clouds.
The dragons, the knights riding horses.
It's like another world.
- All I see is just clouds.
- You have to lie back to see it.
Lie back.
Squint your eyes.
Do you see it?
Isn't it beautiful?
- Yeah.
It's beautiful.
(atmospheric piano music)
(gun fires)
(wind rustling)
(birds chirping)
(atmospheric piano music)
(ax cracking wood)
- Can you at least meet her?
- Not interested.
- Can you at least look
as if you're interested?
You know, people are
starting to talk, Tom.
- And end up like you and him.
Both stuck with someone you don't love?
- No one's gonna accept your love.
- Like they accept yours.
You and Eddie here are both having a love,
so let me have a chance at mine.
- I'm not wanting to deny you that.
I just don't want you to end up like me.
- Is there something wrong?
I heard my name.
- No.
Looks like we have to
cover this up for now.
- There's plenty more room on the truck.
- Blisters on my hands.
- Well, Frank won't be pleased.
- Then we won't tell him.
What he doesn't know won't hurt
him, isn't that right, Mum?
- Well, that's fine with me.
- I hope you know what you're doing.
- It's a risk that I'll take.
- You didn't tell Billy
that we'll cover this up?
Have you two been sharing secrets?
You'll have to tell Billy.
When he empties the truck,
he'll wonder where the
rest of the wood is.
- Yeah, I'll let him know.
- Alright, then.
(atmospheric piano music)
(truck engine whirring)
(atmospheric piano music)
(Billy chuckles)
(Billy chuckles)
(Billy laughing)
- [Billy] Mrs. Henshaw.
- [Tom] Hi, Mom.
- Hi.
Can you just get some more eggs?
- [Tom] Yep.
(birds chirping)
(creek flowing)
- [Eva] Is everything okay?
- Want one?
- [Billy] No.
- Not when you're working, aye?
Why is it that some people think
that they can have more
than their fair share?
She'll get her comeuppance one day.
- Why don't you leave?
- We're all trapped here.
We all live this farce
because we're as frightened
of who we might be
should it all blow apart,
as we're as fearful of
what people might say.
It's my fault.
And Frank's.
You ever chase a man for love?
Or marry your brother's first sweetheart?
- So what's this all about?
- I'm going to the
dance at the local hall.
- I know that, but no suitor?
- No.
- [Frank] Hmm.
After you've gone
And left me crying
After you've gone
- She's already gone.
You've wasted your money.
And I feel sad
- Oh, and Danny, we don't
always get what we want.
- Whoa.
Look steady on.
This was the time
- What are you up to?
- Cleaning the gear for the rhubarb cull.
Look what I'm doing
My love for you will
- You mind if I give a hand.
- Bit overdressed.
After you've gone away
- Yeah.
- I suppose so then.
And left me crying
After you've gone
There's no denying
I'll feel blue
And I'll feel sad
I'll miss the only
vow that I ever had.
This was a time
I won't forget it
It was a time
And I'll regret it
Oh, babe
Look what I'm doing
My love for you
Will drive me to ruin
After you've gone
- So you're coming on the hunt this time?
- No.
- Cowboy's gonna be coming.
After you've gone
And left me crying
- You know, you should be more careful.
You stare at him too long.
There's no denying
I'll feel blue
And I'll feel sad
- I'm not the only one who sees it.
I'll miss the only vow
That I ever had
It was a time
- That's a lifetime of secrets.
You gotta trust not only yourself,
but your merry boy, too.
And I'll regret it.
- This whole family's held
together with their secrets.
- Hmm.
Yeah.
And I know them all.
After you've gone
After you've gone
Away
- So I suppose you and your cowboy think
you're gonna run this place some day, aye?
- That's no concern of yours.
(atmospheric piano music)
- You need my concern
The situation has changed.
I've got prospects.
- Not with my sister, you don't.
She's not interested.
Huh, you know, she did go to the dance.
With someone else.
(gun nuzzle clacking)
He's the last one
(gun fires)
Left through
Me my Lord
(atmospheric gospel music)
- [Eva] Tom.
Look at me, Tom.
- I'm gonna be alright, aren't I?
- [Eva] Yes, you're gonna be alright.
You're gonna be okay.
- Billy.
- [Billy] Bring an ambulance.
Ah, Jesus.
- [Tom] Stay with me just a bit longer.
- I'm not gonna leave you.
- Just look at me, Tom.
- Oh, Mum, there's a lot of blood around.
- [Eva] You're alright, Tom.
(Tom groaning)
It's okay.
Okay.
- I can't see well.
Mum.
Billy.
- Right here.
- [Tom] Tell 'em you need me.
(Eva cries)
- [Billy] Oh my, God, I love you.
- [Eva] Tom.
(cries) No, not my boy.
- That was the wrong thing.
- No.
- [Billy] You.
(fist thuds against face)
- Not my boy. (Crying)
(atmospheric gospel music)
(somber orchestral music)
(police sirens blaring)
(rain pattering)
(somber orchestral music)
(somber orchestral music)
- Why these?
- They're flowers from his garden.
They're the flowers he loved.
They're beautiful like him.
- Don't you think you've done
enough damage to the boy already?
- Damage?
It was the way he wanted to be.
He was, thank God, nothing like you.
- He will be remembered the way
I want him to be remembered.
- I put those there.
- Why are you still here?
This is my house,
my farm,
my wife
and my son.
- He's my son.
- [Frank] Eva?
Eva?
Makes perfect sense.
Good for nothing like his father, then.
You can have him.
He's no son of mine.
- Frank?
(somber orchestral music)
- [Eddie] Eva?
Eva?
Eva?
- I'm not going.
- We have to go, they're waiting.
- It's all lies, Eddie.
Layers and layers of lies.
Everything built on lies.
I can't do it anymore.
- We have to do this one
last time for Tom's sake.
- Why did you say it?
- I couldn't be his
father when he was alive,
damned if I can't be his father now.
I'll go along with Frank one last time,
but now he knows, now
he can't shove me aside.
Not now, not ever again.
We need to go, we have
to do this together.
- Tell them to go.
I want them to leave.
I just wanna be here with my boy.
- [Eddie] He's gone.
The hearse is gone.
We have to let him go, Eva.
Frank's gone ahead already.
- Without me?
- Billy can take us.
- Well, that's fitting.
He should sit beside us, then.
- Why?
He's the farmhand.
(atmospheric piano music)
- He's Tom's lover.
- And am I the last one to know this too?
- No, you're the only person I've told.
So,
are you gonna bury him
as his uncle,
or as his father?
- We need to go.
I have to say farewell to my son.
Are you coming with me?
(atmospheric orchestral music)
(birds chirping)
(truck engine whirring)
- Have you seen this rubbish?
Herein finds the death
of local boy Tom Francis
Henshaw accidental.
A visibly distressed Danny Birch
gave a heart rendering
account of the ordeal.
A gun goes off accidentally
while he cleaning it, right.
- You think he shot him deliberately?
- I wouldn't go around saying that.
That's supposition, that is.
- I know Frank, and he
wouldn't have allowed
that lot to go on.
That Danny Birch is a
bad'n just like his father.
- They did an autopsy and
that was their finding.
- You don't clean a gun while it's loaded.
That's the first rule there is.
- Is Frank keeping him on?
- Don't know, lad.
Bad business all around.
- Heard something about that
Henshaw boy and his farmhand.
(chuckles)
- What do you hear?
- That's just gossip, that is.
I won't have that rubbish talk here.
The lad's dead.
Have a little respect.
(truck engine whirring)
(atmospheric orchestral music)
- Hello.
I came to say my goodbye.
- Frank said you were leaving.
- Yes.
Will you be alright, Mrs. Henshaw?
- I'll be fine, thanks, Billy.
He loved you.
- I tried not to fall in love.
- That never works.
- I left someone before I hurt him.
Badly.
This time I stayed, and
I want to do something.
I want to kill him.
- No.
They'd happily crucify you.
- But I know the truth.
Why couldn't they see it?
- Because they weren't
looking for the truth.
- How can Frank just accept it?
- Imagine what they would have unearthed
if they went looking for the truth?
No, Frank doesn't want the truth.
- But I owe it to Tom.
He believed in the truth.
- I think the world will change, Billy.
It just didn't change in time for Tom.
- And in the meantime?
- In the meantime,
stay true to yourself.
That's what Tom would want.
- Is that what you're gonna do?
- Good luck, Billy.
You're a good man.
- He loved you too, Mrs. Henshaw.
(somber orchestral music)
(Billy crying)
(Billy sobbing)
(Billy sobbing)
(Billy sobbing)
(somber orchestral music)
(wind rustling)
(atmospheric orchestral music)
(truck engine whirring)
- Old man Malam's made me a partner.
He said I've got a good head
for the science of it all.
- Good for you.
- Yeah.
There's a lot more to seed
mix than most folks know.
- You'll be a rich man
before you know it, Louis.
- Thanks Mr. Henshaw.
Oh, and by the way,
old man Malam said to pass this on to you.
Said the landlady is an old friend of his.
Said she'd do you right.
- Thank Rex for us, would ya?
- Sure.
He says the place is nice and homey.
Big garden.
Lots of flowers.
(atmospheric piano music)
Alright, that's us, then.
- [Attendant] Thank you.
- [Louis] Mr. Henshaw.
- [Eddie] Thank you, Louis.
- Louis, would you do something for me?
- Certainly.
- Would you look out for Tess?
I hope one day she'll forgive me.
- Absolutely.
Maybe I could write to you.
Let you know how's she doing.
- Thank you, Louis.
- Good luck with the business, Louis.
- Thank you, Mr. Henshaw.
Good luck.
- Bye, Louis.
(atmospheric piano music)
(train chugging along tracks)
(train whistle blowing)
(wind rustling)
(train whistle blowing)
(atmospheric piano music)
(atmospheric piano music)
(shovel hacking at ground)
(atmospheric orchestral music)
- You're leaving.
- [Billy] Yep.
- You know, what you did was illegal.
You and Tom.
- You're lucky they called it an accident.
(Danny chuckling)
- You know, you can't run far enough
when you're running from yourself.
(atmospheric orchestral music)
- [Billy] East of Eden was
said to be a bad place.
So maybe you could say,
Tom and I found are truth,
somewhere West of Eden.
(atmospheric orchestral music)
My life took on many twists and turns
in the years that followed.
I kept moving on,
but I believe I did stay true to myself.
The world did change.
And though people and
places came and went,
I never forgot Tom.
(atmospheric orchestral music)