UNCLE KR�GER
Freely adapted from themes taken from the novel,
"Man without a Nation", by Arnold Krieger
Calm down!
President Kr�ger will talk to no one.
Mr. President is very tired. He's not receiving anyone.
But my turn is not until eight this evening!
But I already told you a hundred times. It is absolutely impossible.
President Kr�ger is not to be disturbed.
But if I could only...
I represent the New York Herald! I must see him!
Have you read my article in the Eight O'Clock Evening Paper?.
Tell me, does he already know about the English?
I've got to see the President! I come direct from London.
I'm the chief reporter of the Times.
Here's the Berlin Daily Paper. Circulation 835,000.
I need a report about how Uncle Kr�ger is living in exile
and what he says to the peace treaty with England. By tomorrow.
For the last time.
It is against our hotel's policy to disturb our guests.
Don't give me that! I'll have a word with him.
Kind sir, won't you let me go up to see the President?
It won't be to your disadvantage. One hand washes the other.
One hundred francs? Thank you.
There you go! I knew it.
- I'll pass it on to the Red Cross. - Don't kid around.
You still can't see the president, however.
Who are those two?
- Criminal investigators. - How interesting!
Switzerland wants to protect itself
so that nothing happens to the famous guest.
One moment.
Hello, professor. How is our honored patient?
I hope everything works out.
It would be very unpleasant for the reputation of our hotel
if something were to happen.
Well, it is a very complicated case.
Goodbye, professor.
Who's that man that just took the elevator?
- You don't know him? - No idea.
But that's Professor Nagel of the University of Zurich.
I see.
The professor.
- Where are you going? - Just one moment.
It's much too bright!
I told you every ray of light is harmful.
But he doesn't even feel the light anymore.
- When did he say that? - Yesterday.
Last night I thought it was all over.
- Pulse? - 35.
- Steady? - No. Unsteady.
Well, I already have a new job for you.
A 60-year-old lady, very wealthy.
- Uremia. You can start next week. - Thank you very much, professor.
Good morning, Mr. President.
May I?
So how are you feeling today?
Newspapers? Newspapers are poison for you.
You're not allowed to worry
about what's happening in the world anymore.
Here's the Berlin Daily Paper. This will just take a minute.
It's a great honor, Mr. President.
- May I ask a few questions? - Absolutely impossible!
What do you say about the political situation?
What do you say?
Then at least a picture, please. May I open the curtains a little?
Don't! The president has an eye disease.
An eye disease?
I'll use the flash then!
Thank you, Mr. President. This issue will be a sensation!
Goodbye, Mr. President, goodbye...
What an impudent man!
It's looking good. But like I said, no excitement.
See you tomorrow, Mr. President.
Goodbye, professor.
Goodbye, nurse. I'll be back tomorrow morning.
- Are we alone, nurse? - Yes, Mr. President.
- Is it bright in the room? - The curtains are shut.
Please open them.
- Is it sunny out? - Yes, Mr. President.
I can feel the warmth on my skin.
Now please read the newspapers to me.
"The negotiations between the Royal English Government and the Boers
have led to the completion of the peace treaty.
The whole of South Africa will become a part of the British Empire.
Although the Boers thus lose their independence,
they will gain an enormous advantage.
They have become Englishmen".
Go on.
"Finally, the defiance and obstinacy of this close-minded nation
has given way to a peaceful, rich South Africa".
Peaceful, rich, and English.
"The leaders of the Boers, generals as well as politicians,
have been pardoned by their noble victor.
With only one exception..." The rest is not that important.
I know. I am the exception. Just read on.
"This old man,
who rushed his nation into battle with criminal carelessness,
and has now settled into luxurious retirement in Switzerland..."
No one who knows you will believe this.
The world forgets quickly.
And if a lie is repeated time and again, it will finally be believed.
Just now as you read this, were you not thinking, too:
"Why didn't he negotiate with the English?"
Why didn't you?
You can't negotiate with the English.
Did you know that my ancestors lived happily
in Cape Land for 200 years?
Then came the English and took away their farms.
Then our shepherds told themselves, it can't be the will of our God
that a whole nation should live in slavery.
Hence we moved deeper into Africa
in search of new pastures and new land.
This trek lasted month after month, year after year,
through dreary deserts and endless prairies.
The perpetual creaking of our wheels was our children's lullaby.
It was in the saddle that our boys became men.
No struggle, no hardship discouraged this nation
that only had one goal: To live in freedom and peace.
Across the Vaal River, we finally found our new home.
We worked very hard, and God's blessing was with us.
Thus, our new fatherland, Transvaal, was born,
eked out with our blood, drenched in our sweat.
Here, we thought, we could live in peace.
But then the Englishman followed us.
This Africa...
Doesn't it stir a man's imagination?
These vast and unexplored spaces! Brimming with mysteries.
I love this Africa the way you love a woman.
Love a continent? What an absurd idea!
You're dreaming, my dear Rhodes.
Dear Flora, women don't understand
that you have to be a dreamer to be a ruler.
- You're not a dreamer. - But?
A shrewd businessman.
Because I know that the boldest dreams can come true.
Read this.
I know nothing about formulas.
Dr. Jameson! Please bring us our map.
And explain the meaning of these writings here.
We were able to find the highest and purest gold source on Earth.
- Here in South Africa? - Yes, in South Africa.
But, unfortunately, there is one hitch.
The sites aren't located near us in the Cape Colony...
- But? - On Boer territory.
The map, please!
Look.
Here's the border.
And here, near Johannesburg, are the goldfields.
- Did you get it, Flora? - Completely!
England has to declare war on the Boers.
I'm pleased with your keen perception.
But there's more to it than that.
What do you plan on doing, Dr. Jameson?
I assume riots will erupt in these borderlands soon.
- When are you taking off? - Tomorrow morning.
Guns and ammunition are already packed.
May you be successful!
And what shall be my job?
Your ship departs tonight.
You will immediately call on the colonial secretary in London...
- Chamberlain? - Yes.
He has to support me
so that I can exploit the area without any disturbance.
I'm already having purchases made.
Will you give me a letter?
No, nothing in writing.
Just tell him we are dealing with the biggest gold source on Earth
and that I expect his support.
In the event of riots in the borderlands,
he must intervene at once.
When may I return, Cecil?
It won't be long until I succeed.
After all, I have competent agents.
You, Jameson, and the English missionaries.
Winchester rifle. Definitely made in England.
Alignment chamber.
Traction lock.
How can you deliver such weapons into the hands of the blacks?
You ought to be hanged!
I protest against this illegal restraint!
You have no right to arrest me!
I am English! Take off these handcuffs at once!
They stay on!
One has to be on guard against people of your caliber!
You are a spy!
I protest!
It's an impudence to handcuff me!
Stop shouting like that!
I'll shout as much as I want!
I have no dealings with you!
I want to talk to the president!
Good morning, Mr. President.
Good morning, Reitz.
Good morning, Uncle Paul.
- Good morning. - Good morning.
Good morning, father.
Cronje, what's going on with this guy?
Arrested for gun smuggling.
I can have as many guns as I want!
Don't interrupt the president!
Where did you arrest him?
In the Johannesburg area, father.
And how many guns did he have on him?
200, and 30,000 bullets. This is the model.
We Boers can't afford such nice weapons.
You don't seem to know who I am!
Who are you, then?
I've already said it a dozen times, I am English!
I didn't doubt that for one moment.
Only an Englishman would smuggle weapons into a foreign country.
I didn't know I was on Boer territory!
Is it that implausible to get lost in the African bush?
It's one of the privileges of your nation to be weak in geography
when it comes to non-English territory.
Take off the handcuffs.
I'd like to point out that my arrest was illegal.
Illegal? Why?
These people are civilians!
They don't have the right to arrest anyone!
We are a poor country.
We can't afford a special police force.
Every citizen is a policeman or a soldier here if need be.
- Does he have a passport? - Here it is.
Your name is Dr. Jameson,
you're a physician, and you live in Cape Town.
What are you doing here in our country?
I told you, I got lost!
I suggest you be a little more talkative.
I have other business besides yours,
and I won't be able to continue our talk for another six weeks at least.
Are you saying you want to prevent me from traveling on for six weeks?
I'll have you locked up, doctor.
Do you know what this will lead to?
An armed intervention by England!
Ah, here comes the coffee!
Thank you, mother.
Here, have some coffee.
I'd like to believe that you got lost
if you tell me the destination of your travel.
I'm in the service of the director of the South African Mining Company,
Mr. Cecil Rhodes.
He sent me northward for excavations!
What a bag of lies!
If you're trying to tell me
that you need the guns for protection against the natives,
let me tell you that our natives are harmless people
as long as you don't aggravate them.
Do you mean to claim...?
I'm not claiming anything!
According to our law, the import of arms is controlled by the state,
which you know very well!
And since you haven't declared the arms, they will be seized.
You are free to go.
But to reimburse you for the loss of your guns,
let me give you this map here.
You see, Dr. Jameson,
this area here belongs to us, and not to you.
Don't bother, Mr. President. I know South Africa very well.
How did you manage to get lost then?
You can go!
Dr. Jameson!
Give my regards to your boss, Cecil Rhodes.
And tell him we Boers don't sleep.
Remind him of Majuba.
We've already beaten England once!
We are a peaceful nation.
But if the English force us, we will beat them a second time!
And God will be with us!
I'll tell him just as you told me, Mr. Kr�ger.
I wouldn't have turned him loose.
I would have detained him.
If you want to bag a turtle,
you have to wait for it to stick its head out of its carapace.
This Jameson is not the mastermind. Cecil Rhodes is!
The president only has one hour today.
Please bring up your concerns quickly.
Who is next?
- I am. - Come with me.
Hello, Uncle Kr�ger.
Ah, it's Colson!
- How are you doing? - Bad.
Bad?
Well, what's the problem?
I am the field cornet in my district.
I know.
Are you not happy with the citizens that belong to your commando?
- Ah, those stupid boys! - Why?
Rascals!
They say I'm too old to lead the commando
if there's going to be another war.
What impudence!
- How old are you, Colson? - 82.
82? Nice age.
Well, the young people have to have their day too.
The young people?!
I'll take those rascals on any day!
And how old are the rascals who want to relieve you from your command?
Well, about your age.
At my age, you have a little more strength in your bones
than you do when you're 82.
More strength, eh? We"ll see about that!
Come on over here, Paul! Come on, come on!
Field Cornet Colson, I'd like to point out
that an audience with the nation's leader is not the place to...
Just let it be.
- I'll show him. - But, Mr. President!
Mr. Permanent Secretary, you're the referee.
General Joubert, General Cronje, you"ll act as his seconds.
- Ready? - Yes.
Go!
Son of a gun!
- Mr. President! Mr. President! - Colson!
- Bravo! - Good, Paul!
- Colson! Colson! - Paul!
Paul!
Well, Paul, out of breath yet? - Colson!
- Paul!
For God's sake! He's winning!
Again!
Just try it once again! Pull hard!
Paul!
Colson!
- You won! - So! I won!
And those rascals between 50 and 60 say I can't lead a commando anymore.
All right, all right! You can stay in charge!
Really?
Thank you, Paul!
And if things should start to rumble, you can count on me!
Colson!
What a guy!
What a guy! 82 years old, right?
From today on we"ll practice this every day.
With who? Me?
Not with you! With one of our boys!
Once after breakfast and once before bedtime.
Who is next?
Congressman Kock.
Great! Just who I want to see.
You called him in. It's about the sale of his farm.
Yes. Tell the pig to come in!
- He also brought his wife along. - His wife, too?
I guess he's too scared to see me alone.
Congressman Kock and wife.
- Hello, Paul. - Hello.
Well, how are you doing?
- Long time no see. - Yes.
That's why I called you in, Kock.
L"ve been hearing strange things about you.
You want to sell your farm?
I can do what I want with my property, can't I?
You don't just give up your inheritance like that.
Don't you know that?
It's all done.
We have the money in our pockets.
The farm doesn't belong to us anymore.
Ah, so it's your fault.
You talked him into it, right?
I was but a tool.
What was that?
The Holy Ghost told me:
"Sophie Kock," he said:
"The grace of God is with you. Sell everything that's yours".
I never do business with the Holy Ghost. You always lose.
Not if you believe, as we do.
We made good money, didn't we?
Let's not talk about that here.
I believe the Holy Ghost came from England.
And he didn't just appear in her dreams,
but talked to her in person. Right?
I don't know what you're trying to say.
Don't play dumb with me! You know exactly what I mean!
I have no idea!
Then I'll have to make it clear.
Who's traveling from farm to farm in the Johannesburg area
talking the Boers into giving up their land?
Congressman Kock, that's who!
Well, if you know it, why ask?
I also know who you're doing it for, you hypocritical dog!
Selling your farm for a handful of silver!
You're only upset because you don't own any property down there!
You"d be the first!
You're after the money just like the others!
But you can't deceive us anymore.
Now it's time to go!
Out you go!
I'll leave when I'm good and ready!
I'm a congressman!
I'll show you!
I'm going to tell the congress what kind of president we have!
You can also tell the congress that the president kicked you in the butt!
And greetings to the Holy Ghost!
So, now I finally know what's going on.
The gunrunning this morning, and now this here.
Do you know for whom they're buying up the land by Johannesburg?
For Cecil Rhodes.
Yes.
And if Cecil Rhodes is involved, it stinks of gold.
- You think...? - I don't think. I know.
And I also know the reason.
More than 50 years ago, during the Great Trek,
I found gold down there as a small boy.
I showed it to my father, and he made me swear never to talk about it.
My father knew why.
Now the English have found the gold. God help us.
We have some hard times ahead of us.
England won't rest until they"ve driven us off our property.
And what is going to happen now?
Take this down. We"ll submit a law to the congress.
No Boer shall sell his land to foreigners
without permission from the government.
I hope father won't come out right now.
No. Another visitor just came to see him.
Do you really think he has no idea?
Of course, father knows that Jan is on his way back,
but his arrival today will be a big surprise for him.
I just wonder whether Jan is the same as before.
- Why shouldn't he be? - Well, three years in England.
Next, please!
They're coming! They're coming!
Jan!
Adrian! There you are!
- How was the trip? - Just wonderful.
And all these little Kr�gers you bring with you from England!
There she is, the little one!
Yes, and here, Stefan!
Hello, Elisabeth!
Antje!
My boy!
Petra!
God bless your arrival!
This is Stefan.
Say hello to Grandma.
Hello, Grandma.
Look, here's my Tommy!
I hope you bring a little bit of civilization to our modest hut.
- Where's father? - He doesn't know yet.
We want to surprise him!
Good.
Come on.
Anyone else out there?
No, that was the last one.
Thank God!
Work out the details of the bill at once, Reitz.
I want to present it to the congress as quickly as possible.
Who's there? Come in!
Good morning, Mr. President.
Mr. Permanent Secretary, do you know this citizen?
Perhaps one of your grandchildren, Mr. President?
No, I know all 43 of them.
Pardon me, sir, what is your name?
Stefan Kr�ger.
Mr. Permanent Secretary, the citizen Stefan Kr�ger.
Number 44.
Where do you come from, Mr. Kr�ger?
- From London. - From London?
And you didn't bring your parents with you?
And here comes another grandchild!
Number 45!
Come on, mother, hand that little monkey over to me.
A strong child, right?
A beautiful child!
Just like grandfather!
Yes, but, children, children, I do believe... I do believe...
Fr�ulein Kr�ger brought us a gift from London!
Yes, yes.
Yes, change her, would you?
So, and now leave me alone with Jan. Petra, I'll see you at dinner.
Come on, children, come on. Leave me alone with Jan.
God bless your arrival.
I'm glad you're back home, son.
So am I, father.
Really?
But of course I'm glad.
Well, then everything's all right.
Come on, let's stuff our pipes.
Now tell me, how did things go for you over there?
Excellently, thank you.
Sit down already.
Thanks.
May I?
You don't like our tobacco anymore?
No, of course I do. I just have to get used to it again.
How's your health, father? Is everything good?
Oh, sure.
Except my eyes aren't what they used to be.
It's sad when an old hunter has to say that about himself.
But it's no big deal.
The main thing is that you are here again.
At home.
Now tell me about Oxford.
You passed all your exams?
Yes.
I believe I'm the first Boer citizen
who's familiar with all aspects of international law.
Well, it did cost enough money.
But we need studied minds to take on the English when they twist the law.
Why do you say, "twist the law"?
Because tha�s what they are! L"ve always called a spade a spade!
The English always treated me quite well.
Really?
Then you must be the only Boer who can say that about himself.
And what are your plans for the future, Jan?
I was hoping you"d be my permanent secretary one day.
Or even my successor.
But you don't seem to be interested in becoming president of the Boers.
I am interested.
But it seems much too early to talk about your successor.
I�s always best to plan ahead.
No one knows when God calls you home.
But knowing who my successor will be would be a great comfort to me.
What do you say, Jan?
Mr. President, the bill of law.
Thank you, Reitz.
Here's your chance to show what you've learned.
The ban on selling Boer land to foreigners.
A ban like this doesn't seem practical.
Why not?
A restriction like this opposes the international interpretation of law.
International interpretation of law? I don't give a damn!
That won't help you much, father.
I'm allowed to buy property wherever I want if I have the money.
That means the English could buy all our land tomorrow.
In theory, yes.
And one day we"ll wake up with an English government.
I didn't say that!
But in theory it would be possible, yes.
But it won't happen! Not as long as I live!
But it's only a matter of principle, father.
It's only a matter of principle to me when it's regarding us Boers.
Of course, father!
But for the nations to live in peace side by side,
they"ll have to try to adapt their status of rights,
their laws and perspectives to each other.
If possible, modeled on English example.
- Why not? - Why not?
Because that would mean our downfall!
Not at all, father.
The British Empire is ruled in the name of progress.
Whoever belongs to it lives in peace and prosperity.
Ha! In peace and prosperity!
Like back when those greedy Brits drove us away from our property.
God, please forget those old stories already!
No, never! Only a scoundrel would forget them!
That's why we need this bill of law!
It's a mistake.
Our whole anti-English politics is a mistake, I'm telling you!
You seem to care about England a lot.
You wrong me. I love our fatherland just like you do.
But I've been outside. You gain a broader perspective.
And lose sight of the nearest thing.
You misjudge me, father.
Far from it! I'm just getting to know you now.
That's what I sent you to England for? So that you come back as a stranger?
You"ve been Anglicized!
Don't say that!
Why not? Can't you stand the truth?
Just look at you! Is that what a Boer looks like?
England! England!
Every third word is "England"!
England is our enemy!
Our remorseless enemy!
Those who pact with England surrender to England!
But that won't happen as long as I live!
I swear by God!
I'm very sorry, father. I was wrong to upset you like that.
It's all right.
- But we have to talk about it. - I think so, too.
I'm sorry to disturb you, but I have an important message.
Hello, Uncle Paul!
De Wet, what's going on?
An uprising!
The sky is ablaze with the conflagration
all around Johannesburg!
Where do you say?
Near Johannesburg!
They're Lobenguela's men!
There you have it! Your friends, the English!
What do the English have to do with it?
It's obvious that England is behind it!
Lobenguela used to be one of our most reliable chiefs!
Do you know where he set up camp?
Yes. The whole bush is filled with the drone of their drums.
They're holding their war dances.
Lobenguela! Lobenguela!
Uncle Paul!
Lobenguela.
I have to talk to you.
How long have we known each other?
Wrong.
You still don't know how to count. You haven't learned a thing!
And you"ve not become a good Christian, either.
Christians don't steal cattle or burn the house of the White Man.
Lobenguela not a Christian anymore.
I see. What are you then?
An Englishman.
Ah! That's unbelievable!
And our Englishman also gave you that ape jacket you're wearing, right?
Yes.
What else did he give you?
There!
White Mother.
Uncle Kr�ger must say that Lobenguela is lying.
Uncle Paul knows White Mother?
Yes, White Mother writes me a letter every morning.
No.
Yes, White Mother also wrote me that she gave you guns!
- No! No! - Yes! Yes!
- No! No! No! - Yes!
Who gave you those guns?
Who?
You black wretch!
I'll skin you alive and make drums from your hide
if you don't tell me at once who gave you those guns!
So, who?
What does that mean? What does that mean?
Oh, a missionary gave you the guns?
Yes.
Lobenguela, you are going to hand over all the guns to me now.
Your hear? All of them!
Yes.
And then we"ll be good friends again.
Yes, Uncle Paul.
Now let's go outside. I'm going to talk to your men.
No! Don't go there now!
Black Man very wild!
Yes, that's all right! Let's just go! Come on, come on!
If I understood you right, Chamberlain,
my government intends to make some changes in South Africa.
Which would mean a conflict with the Boers.
Can we justify that?
Destiny has called upon England
to take on the education of the small and underdeveloped nations.
May I remind Your Majesty
that this is an old and approved principle of our politics?
Are these Boers really so backwards?
You wouldn't believe how uncultured this rabble is.
How does it show?
They resist the greatest fortune possible for people of our time:
To be subjects of Your Majesty.
I see. They resist?
They say they"d rather die than become English.
Does that surprise you, Chamberlain?
Honestly, yes.
These Boers...
Brown, I'm cold. To the fireplace.
These Boers have too many friends.
The French, the Dutch, the Germans.
We English have no friends in this world.
They think we are thieves.
Are we thieves, Chamberlain?
May I point out to Your Majesty
that no other nation is as pious as the English?
I heard the Boers are pious people, too.
But not in the right way.
- How do you know? - They"ve remained small and poor.
Poor...
My medicine!
How do these people make their living?
With cattle breeding and agriculture. They have very few needs.
And, therefore, you think we can just take the whole Boer state?
It is our duty to do so!
Oh, Chamberlain, we have enough trouble in India.
But India is rich!
Why should we bother with these poor and dirty farmers
down there in Africa?
Gold has been found in the land of the Boers.
Gold? Why didn't you say that earlier?
That's something else, of course! That changes everything.
How do you know about the gold?
I have a secret report from Cecil Rhodes.
Rhodes?
He's that adventurer in South Africa. A shady fellow, Chamberlain.
He's supposed to have a bad reputation.
The men who made England great have always had a bad reputation.
A lot of gold, did you say?
Lots and lots of gold, Your Majesty.
So much that we will be endlessly rich.
If there's gold to be found there, then this land belongs to us.
This is true.
I thank Your Majesty for this word.
Only the Englishman is able to endure wealth without becoming godless.
So Your Majesty approves
of the actions planned by the government?
What kind of actions?
Brown?
Please.
Riots broke out at the borders of the Boer state.
You"ve sent a lot of English missionaries there.
It is well known that the English mission
works with the people all around the world.
And do these missionaries have enough guns and ammunition?
The government of Your Majesty knows nothing about that.
Knows nothing, knows nothing!
Can we not come to an amicable agreement with these Boers?
I think that's impossible.
But there is an easy way to settle this:
The Boers hand over the gold, and we take care of their state.
Yes, but you can't negotiate with President Kr�ger.
- Why not? - He's not a gentleman.
- How do you know? - He's suspicious towards us.
Shouldn't the man be, Chamberlain?
But it's impossible to negotiate with a man
who won't believe our promises.
I understand.
Mr. Kr�ger is too sly for you.
Indeed, I have to admit that our proven methods
don't leave the slightest impression on him.
The only important thing about an agreement is
who's going to suffer under it.
Surely my government can trick an uneducated farmer.
I will do my best, but war would be easier.
Agreements are cheaper than wars.
But who keeps an agreement these days!
Outside of England, people like that still exist.
Invite Kr�ger at once!
- To London? - But certainly!
You can have your war, Chamberlain, but it would be very effective
if you first invited Mr. Kr�ger to negotiate one more time.
It will prove our good intentions to the whole world.
- Kr�ger won't come. - Even better.
Then the appearance of justice will be on our side.
When you arrive in London you have to polish the decorations,
so they"ll be nice and shiny.
I'll put the cloth in here, too, but don't forget it, Paul.
No, mother, no.
Or else the Queen of England will say I let you walk around unkempt.
The Queen of England has other worries.
I'm sure she gossips like all other women,
and I don't want to be the butt of it.
- I think there's one missing. - That's fine.
I just hope the Queen won't give me an Order of the Garter.
Where do you carry that?
Below the knee.
And you have to walk around in shorts and silk stockings
and wear a garter with diamonds on your left leg.
I don't think that's pretty.
Well, every country has its own fashion.
Jan says you need an umbrella in London.
I bought you one.
But, mother, I'll walk around in London just like I do here.
But what if the top hat gets wet?
Say, how many top hats are you packing?
I bought you two new ones.
This journey to London will make me go broke!
Now I know what's missing! Your eye drops.
Yes, mother, yes. Don't forget those.
You're also bringing the state budget plan?
Yes.
I want them to see that we"re in need of a loan.
Father, I'm happy you decided to arrive at an agreement with England.
- You didn't expect that? - Honestly, no.
Now you think you"ve convinced me with your views.
I just think your intelligence was stronger than your emotions.
The most intelligent thing is to never betray your emotions.
What are you trying to say?
Though you became a friend of the English,
you are my son, and you"ll remain silent.
That goes without saying.
Then let me tell you, this Chamberlain thought I'd call it off.
But I'm going.
And with the firm belief that England won't keep the agreement
but will seize the next opportunity to ambush us.
I can't agree with you on that.
What does that mean?
I know the English. They keep their agreements.
I trust them.
So, you trust them.
Well, in that case you can't become my permanent secretary.
I can't sacrifice my beliefs for my career.
Good.
And what are you going to do now?
I'll go back to my farm.
There's plenty of work for me.
I'm sorry, Jan.
So am I, father.
Farewell.
Company, stand still!
Shoulder arms!
Attention!
Present arms!
This cattle breeder from South Africa is conducting himself marvelously.
Even I couldn't do better!
He"ll be an easy match for you, Royal Highness.
Mr. President,
I'm so pleased that you have accepted my, and my government's, invitation,
and were not shy of the long journey across the ocean.
My government and I hope the result of this visit
will be an agreement
which will set the seal on peace and friendship between our nations.
It is my duty and pleasure to thank Your Majesty
for the kind invitation to London.
I am very glad to be here, and my people send their warmest regards.
My son, the Prince of Wales.
L"ve heard a lot about you.
I hope only good things, Mr. President.
Well, lots of amusing and endearing things.
Your Majesty?
Mr. President.
Do you really believe Kr�ger will sign the agreement?
I hope so, Royal Highness.
Impossible! Absolutely impossible!
I know people. Just look at the man!
He knows exactly what he wants. He won't be tricked.
He"ll never sign the agreement Chamberlain drew up.
Walking exhausts me, Mr. President, I apologize.
Have a seat, Mr. President.
You're not in the best of health, Your Majesty.
What's the problem?
Everything.
I can see it in your eyes. It's the same with my wife.
Well, when you get old, you hurt all over.
My wife always complains:
"Paul, it's hurting here. It's hurting there".
"Mother," I say:
"When you're around 60, you have to get used to it.
The best is over".
It starts with rheumatism.
Do you suffer from it, too?
Unfortunately, I do, Mr. President.
Where do you have it?
On the right side.
Right is better than left.
I know all about it.
It starts up here and goes all the way down to the big toe.
What do you do about it, Your Majesty?
My doctors already prescribed all kinds of pills.
You can't rely on doctors.
But I know a remedy, an ointment. I will send you a bottle.
An old African remedy the black medicine men use.
They know a lot.
Will it help me, too?
Of course.
It's helped every sick, old woman so far.
Up there, behind the corner window, there is world history in the making.
Yes.
The Queen and Kr�ger are discussing an agreement
of the highest importance for England.
This Kr�ger has made quite an impression on me.
He's like some legendary giant from days of yore.
Chamberlain will fool him, all right.
Mr. President, the agreement is ready to be signed.
If you will, please.
Well Chamberlain, are you sure you have thought this through?
The cabinet of Your Majesty has approved the agreement as is.
Well, then everything's all right.
Let's not waste any more time.
The government of Her Majesty is glad to gain the friendship
of the Boer state with this signature.
The important thing about such an agreement is to abide by it.
So Kr�ger managed to trick the old frump!
Please talk about our beloved Queen with a little more respect.
This Chamberlain is indeed the biggest jackass I've ever seen.
Do you even know that you"ve lost countless of millions since yesterday?
I anticipated it.
When Kr�ger signed the agreement in London,
he went along with everything.
He gave us the right to dig for gold.
But then the old fox put exorbitant taxes and duties on gold mining.
In other words, we can do the work,
while he gains enormous sums without risk.
I think it's brilliant.
A wonderful man.
I would have done the same thing in his place.
But that's not all.
Read this, Mr. Rhodes.
"The import of dynamite
into the national territory of the Boer state is prohibited.
Kr�ger has created a monopoly".
That means we are forced to buy the dynamite needed for gold mining
from your wonderful Mr. Kr�ger himself,
and at ten times the cost of the free market price.
What do you say to that?
A good deal.
It seems Mr. Kr�ger thought of everything.
It's an unbelievable swindle!
Dear Jameson, you seem to think everything in your interest is good,
and what's in the interest of others is bad.
I am English!
Are you trying to say I am not English?
- You? You are a capitalist. - But that's the same thing!
If you want to keep your capital, you have to be English.
That's an ancient principle.
And then you have to know your enemy.
And mine is now called "Paul Kr�ger".
- He's an enemy? - And what an enemy!
Yes, dear Doctor, and I even admire him.
He managed to trick the best brains of the English government
and even our good old, "up to every trick" Queen.
That's quite an achievement.
Well, they may have negotiated a deal to his liking.
But I'm going to do this a different way.
You won't do anything at all.
This cattle breeder is no opponent for you.
You won't be able to outsmart him.
I think I'll have to take care of him myself, this Paul Kr�ger.
And I'll get him, all right.
This time you're wrong.
You won't be able to bribe him.
Every man has his price. Kr�ger certainly won't be cheap.
Better leave him up to me.
I know what you're up to. You want to silence Kr�ger?
It's fast and it's cheap.
The cheap way is never the best.
I don't want a silent Kr�ger. I want a Kr�ger who speaks.
Who speaks for me and England.
Pardon me, but you're a dreamer!
Anyway, I don't want to start the Kr�ger case with an assassination.
We"ll always have that choice.
We may as well be generous with our gold.
I'd like to appear peaceful at first.
This war can't be avoided!
To Dr. Jameson?
Who is that?
It's that congressman again!
This guy clings to me like a limpet!
Does he take money?
Of course!
Then you talk to him.
You're right on time, Mr. Kock.
Always, doctor.
I have something very important for you.
Isn't that Mr. Rhodes in person?
It's a great honor to finally meet you, Mr. Rhodes.
You probably know I represent progressive ideas at the congress.
I'll fight Uncle Kr�ger to the finish, that old crook.
Doesn't it bother you to talk about your head of state in this manner?
Why? I'm a congressman!
I think Mr. Rhodes would prefer not to continue this conversation.
Is that so? Even if I show him this?
What do you have there?
A detailed record of all arms and ammunition holdings of our country.
Ask him how much it is.
- 3,000 pounds. - Too much.
Please don't bargain. Just give him the check.
Where's your checkbook?
There. Underneath the Bible.
Two million pounds are unaccounted for!
Two million of collateral assets have disappeared!
And what is the government doing? Nothing!
What happened to the money?
We demand clarification!
Citizens!
Shut the windows, at least!
The people of Pretoria don't have to know what's going on here.
The people of Pretoria should know!
They should know they're being exploited and deceived!
Evidence! Evidence!
Yes! Let Kock speak!
No! Let Uncle Kr�ger speak!
I'm not getting an answer to my question!
Nobody can prove that this money was spent in a legitimate way.
Allegedly, large sums have been spent
on government buildings in the city of Pretoria.
I wonder, where are these buildings?
Since he's the man in charge, I ask the president.
And I'll keep asking until Paul Kr�ger tells us where the money went!
Uncle Paul, I think you better answer!
The government declines to provide information to Mr. Kock,
since such a statement would not be appropriate.
I request to move on to the next item on the agenda.
No, no! We won't be fobbed off like that.
What are we even here for?
Are you going to put up with that?
For the last time, where did the money go?
Paul, you have to say something.
Good!
If Kr�ger declines, then I'll tell you where the money went!
It's been stolen!
Thievery!
Why is Uncle Kr�ger not talking?
The president should tell us how much he has in his bank account!
Something stinks here!
Yes, indeed!
It stinks of Cecil Rhodes" money!
And of the cesspool that's Johannesburg!
That's right, Kock! I'm talking about you!
You should be hanged for high treason!
But I'm not here to clean up this pigpen!
I'll pass!
I'm fed up! It's over and done!
See how you manage without me!
Kr�ger walked away!
And where are the two millions?
Where are they?
Aren't you ashamed?
Did you forget what Paul Kr�ger has done for us?
Night and day he worked for our fatherland!
We wouldn't even have a fatherland without him!
And you dare to turn this man into a culprit?
How much hush money did you get?
I'll tell you exactly!
The meeting is closed!
Go work out my resignation statement right away.
- Paul! - Mr. President!
Write! I don't want to waste time!
Is there no other way?
Remaining silent would be an intolerable violation of your honor.
Cut out the big words, Reitz.
Sometimes you have to put your reputation on the line
for your fatherland.
It's ungrateful of these people to hurt and badmouth you,
now that you are old and sick.
Let them talk as much as they want.
Now I won't have to bother with anyone anymore.
Nor will I have to walk around in a frock and top hat.
There's not much I can say, I don't know your business.
Whatever you decide to do will be all right.
The resignation statement.
Thank you, Reitz. And farewell.
You always were a good friend. I'll never forget that.
Do you have something to say, mother?
God knows why he's putting you through this trial.
Thank you for saying that, Sanna. And a trial it is.
My last official act.
- Pardon me, Mr. President. - What is it, Reitz?
Someone downstairs wants to talk to you.
- Who? - Cecil Rhodes.
Cecil Rhodes?
And today of all days? How odd.
Tell him to come up.
This sudden and unannounced visit probably comes as a surprise to you.
Nothing surprises me about you. I just wonder what you're up to this time.
There's something important I have to talk to you about.
You're too late, Mr. Rhodes.
I'm no longer president.
L"ve just signed my resignation statement.
L"ve heard about your troubles with the congress.
But surely you wouldn't abandon a lifetime of work
over something so petty!
I hope I can count on you for a long time to come.
You get used to your enemies in the course of life.
And sometimes you can even arrive at an understanding with them.
You're making me curious.
Sit down, Mr. Rhodes.
We both strive for the same goal.
We want to create a great and unified South Africa.
With one difference.
You want a South Africa under the rule of England.
I want its independence.
And I want to avoid the law of war deciding.
There's only one way out.
An independent country
where the Boers and the English live together in peace.
You think that's possible?
Yes, I think it's possible in a South Africa
not created with violence, but intelligence.
We have to create a new state, where people of two nations,
the Boers and the English, voluntarily unite.
So that neither one can oppress the other.
Do you know what a solution like this would mean to your nation?
The Boer will continue to speak his language,
educate his children in the way he's accustomed to,
and he will no longer hate the English.
And this will make South Africa flourish like never before.
You are a dangerous man.
It's a wonderful idea.
Most wonderful.
And I'd be the first to help make it come true,
if I could only believe that the Boers and the English
will ever become friends.
Even that is possible with a great personality
who would reconcile the two nations.
And this personality is you.
Yes. I, your old enemy, am standing up for a great South Africa,
whose president shall be Paul Kr�ger.
In other words, you want to annex us Boers,
and I'm supposed to play the puppet.
Do you really think I'm that easily fooled?
It would be up to you to get certain guarantees.
Now let's be honest. You want our gold.
That's all you care about.
I forgot to mention that I also thought about personal,
not just political guarantees.
What does that mean?
All those of leading position in the English Empire
also enjoy personal use of England's riches.
Ah, now I know what you mean.
We"ll reach an agreement.
You're very good at connecting sound business with great ideals.
I am curious as to what you could offer me. How about some numbers?
Three million pounds.
Dear Mr. Rhodes, do you know how many children I have?
Unfortunately, I am not familiar with your family background.
Fourteen. Plus 45 grandchildren.
And his number can change any day.
With my wife and I, we"re about 75 people.
You are truly blessed.
Well, that would have to be considered.
Let's say, five million.
I admire your keen perception, but I'm afraid that won't do.
Mr. President, people like us don't have to bargain.
Please fill out the check yourself. It's already signed.
I thought you were smarter than that, Cecil Rhodes.
Did you really think you can buy off Paul Kr�ger?
- Everything has a price. - One's convictions don't.
It's just a question of how much.
I forbid you from insulting
the president of a respected and honest nation
with such an offer!
What is that?
A list of the members of your parliament
who receive financial support from me.
Other prominent personalities of your country are not as reluctant as you.
I see you know how to contaminate a nation
with your corruption.
It's time to talk turkey! Let's get it all out in the open!
All right, as you like.
England will no longer tolerate you standing in the way
of our gold mining.
You know we are concentrating troops at your borders.
I know what awaits us!
But do you think I've been sleeping?
Do you think I didn't know that this day would come?
Do you think I ever expected you to abide by the agreement?
That would have been a first in English history!
But I've been preparing for this, Mr. Rhodes.
L"ve purchased two million pounds worth of arms and ammunition!
I wanted to postpone the moment of truth as long as possible.
Now it has arrived!
I will remain president!
I will lead my nation into this battle,
and each and every man of my nation will be a hero!
Mobilization
Mobilization!
Bowr Land is a frww land
And has bwwn givwn by God
Hw who can't avoid thw call May not livw amongst us
Bowr Land is a frww land
And has bwwn givwn by God
Brothwrs and friwnds
Thw hour has arrivwd
High and low in thw vallwys
Thw wnwmiws havw bwwn bwatwn
Bowr Land is a frww land
And has bwwn givwn by God
Hw who can't avoid thw call May not livw amongst us
Bowr Land is a frww land
And has bwwn givwn by God
DOWN WITH ENGLAND
We have called for the army, and the whole nation arrived!
I didn't know how strong we were! The whole world supports us!
There is no turning back now. We can only go forward!
And God will be with us.
Yes! He will, Uncle Paul!
Colson, do you have your rascals together?
Yes, indeed, Commander!
My rascals and I are ready to march!
In the name of God, Colson, I count on you!
You should, Uncle Paul.
- Mr. President. - What is it, Reitz?
I still need so many important signatures.
March orders, telegrams, the appeal.
What time is it?
11:05.
Where is my father?
Jan! You're here, too!
- Who are you riding with? - I have to talk to father.
Good. I'll wait for you. Hurry up!
- You're going to war, too? - Of course I am!
I am so happy!
You have all gone insane!
- Father, I have to talk to you. - I don't have time.
But you always have time, for everyone!
Things have changed. Losing time means losing the war.
But the war hasn't been declared yet.
The declaration of war is right there.
You have to hear me out, father!
How much time do I have, Reitz?
You have a meeting at 11:15 with the chairman of the mining chamber.
All right. Ten minutes. What do you want?
I beg you, prevent this war! It would mean the end of all our liberties!
We don't want any liberties! We want freedom!
- The English Army! - We dealt with them at Majuba!
England can send as many soldiers as they want!
But we will bleed to death!
We are a small people. We are not yet a nation.
And we will never become one if everyone thinks like you do!
You don't want to hear me out.
But I'll tell you anyway: There's only one way out.
We have to voluntarily hand over the whole gold region!
Hand over the entire gold region? Voluntarily?
Yes.
The English won't leave us alone until they"ve seized the gold mines.
When are you going to join the troops?
I'm a pacifist.
What does that mean, "a pacifist"?
During my years of study, amongst like-minded people,
I took an oath to not partake in any armed war.
I see! That's the definition of "pacifist"?
Sitting at home while the others are fighting!
That's what you"ve learned in England?
I studied patriotic history in Oxford.
You don't study history.
You make history, if you're a true Kr�ger!
But that you are not!
You gutless quitter!
You don't want to understand me!
This is a battle of life and death! It's either the English or us!
But you can negotiate!
To negotiate with England means giving up our freedom
and becoming English slaves!
- And why don't we become English? - What did you say?
It's better to live a life without liberty than to see the whole nation go under!
Father!
This is the answer of President Kr�ger!
And now go! Out!
I don't want to see you anymore!
Reitz!
Reitz! Throw the hoodlum out!
Reitz, my drops.
Paul!
You have to come out. They want to see you.
Who wants to see me?
- All of them! Your Boers! - My Boers?
You have to come out now, or else they"ll break down the doors.
Go, go. Come on!
They"ve deployed their best regiments for the assault.
Let them come close, as close as 100 feet,
and await the command to fire!
Let them come as close as 100 feet. Await for the command to fire!
Damn. Where are those farmers? Why won't they fire?
They're going exactly where we want to have them!
Now it's our turn!
Attack!
Let us pray.
Almighty God.
Great was the number of our enemies, and small our force.
But we knew our cause was just.
We fought for the highest aim, for freedom and fatherland.
And that is why you bestowed victory upon us.
We thank You. Amen.
Gentlemen, the war has been going on for a year,
with nothing but defeats and retreats.
Therefore, the cabinet has decided to call back
Supreme Commander Sir Colley
and put General Kitchener in charge of the command in South Africa.
Please share your plans with us, General Kitchener.
The critical mistake of my predecessors
was holding on to certain militaristic principles,
which might suit normal circumstances,
but are out of place in Africa.
This is a colonial war, gentlemen,
and it must be fought with colonial methods.
What does that mean?
It means no more humanitarian sentimentality.
It means we have to hit these Boers where they are the most vulnerable.
Their farms have to be burned,
their women and children separated from the men
and put into concentration camps.
From today on and without any exception, all Boers are outlawed.
We will not discriminate between armed forces and civilians.
Jan, we could be so happy if there was peace.
What do we care about the war?
I don't want to know anything about it.
But the war is going on.
Not for me.
You can't just stand aside and act like it doesn't concern you.
Sure, I can!
I have to, because it seems I'm the only one in this country
who kept a level head.
But when we are beaten, and we will be beaten,
my hour will come.
Then I'll be the only one who can face the English
and speak in our nation's defense.
But what can you achieve on your own?
The English are generous and far seeing.
They're not interested in an oppressed nation.
They want a people that can fit in as equals in the alliance
of the great English family of nations.
Open up!
Englishmen!
For God's sake, hide yourself!
If they find you here, you"ll be arrested.
Why? I'm not a soldier!
Open the door!
How many men are there in the house?
Apart from me, none, sergeant.
Please come in and see for yourself.
Why are you here and not with your troop?
- I'm not participating in the war. - How are you going to prove that?
You can put away your gun.
I'm a friend of England.
Can I offer you a glass of wine?
Or whiskey?
Wine.
Drink with me, madam.
To an early peace, sergeant!
If you are England's friend,
you will tell me whether any Boers have been here.
We are looking for Black Christian.
Who?
General de Wet.
Nobody has come through here in months.
Really?
Well, I'll accept your invitation.
Water the horses! Post guards!
Pull yourself together!
What happened to the whiskey?
I'll get it.
Would you like to sit down?
What is it? Don't be afraid of me.
Let me go! Let me go!
Don't put up a fuss.
Your husband brought this on.
He is a friend of England!
See, that's the way I like you!
Jan!
Pig!
What?
He's dead.
Hide!
What about him?
I'll tell them I did it.
No.
Go on!
Hurry, before they come!
I beg you, go hide!
Search the whole house!
Too late.
Christiaan de Wet!
I have slain this dog!
So you're a Kr�ger after all.
Yes, I am.
I don't want to stand aside anymore.
Let me join you, general.
I won't be the worst of your men.
Jan Kr�ger, if you come as a regular trooper...
I will! Let's shake hands on it! I'm riding with you!
Short, short, long, short!
Long! Short!
Short!
Long!
- You have it? - Yes.
Announce it.
Yes, sir.
Short, long, short!
This message has to go to Cronje immediately!
My child! My child! My child!
Commander, we've got a connection to headquarters!
Thank God!
The president to Commander Cronje.
Attack immediately!
Break through by all means!
How are we supposed to break through?
Break through with women and children? - There's more.
Demand free passage for women and children before the breakthrough.
Kitchener will never agree to that.
Send me as negotiator.
Good! Try it!
Gentlemen, have you heard
the Boers went to war with all their kinsfolk in tow?
With women and children.
Didn't I say they were savages?
Not different than Zulu wogs and Indians?
But we will be generous.
I'm always accused of not being human.
I will show them the opposite.
I am human!
We will satisfy the wish of Commander Cronje.
He shall send his concubines and cooks over to us.
We"ll take care of them.
The English are coming!
The English!
Go on! Go on!
Look what you got us into!
Be quiet!
You should have seen it coming!
How should I have known?
From your friend, Cecil Rhodes!
Shut your mouth!
What if someone hears you!
Where shall I go?
Come on, grandfather, come on!
General Botha was unable to hold on to the rail.
It's in the hands of the English.
Johannesburg has fallen.
Pretoria is in flames.
And we are on the run.
That's the situation.
Call Hertzog. He's northwest of Pretoria.
Hertzog's battalion has been annihilated.
- And Krutzinger? - Scattered.
Belo?
Cut off at Orange.
So there's only Cronje left.
Everything depends on Cronje.
Cronje was captured by the English today.
He had been trapped for weeks, with all his baggage.
The women and children were starving.
Cronje asked Kitchener for free passage for them.
It was granted.
They were received by the English outpost.
But when Cronje tried
to break through the English line the next morning,
he didn't encounter English soldiers...
Who else?
A long line-up of our own women and children,
with English soldiers hiding behind them,
and using them as a protective barrier, as a shield!
The women were yelling, "Shoot, Cronje! Shoot!
Don't worry about us! Keep firing, Cronje!"
But he hoisted the white flag and capitulated.
Doctor!
Come with me.
- I can't see anything. - But, no, no!
- I can't make out a thing! - It's all right, Mr. President.
I cannot go blind!
This thing with Cronje has put us over the edge.
There's no way out now!
We have to end it!
What does that mean, end it?
The president has to beg England for peace!
Uncle Paul will never do that! The war will continue!
We have been beaten! We have no other choice!
Then we"ll go under!
But beg England for peace? Never! Never!
Stop! Who is there?
De Wet!
Jan Kr�ger?
- Where is my father? - Your father is ill.
I have to talk to him.
- De Wet, have you heard? - All of it!
Doctor, how is my father?
Don't go in there. He gave strict orders to be left alone.
Any agitation is poison for him!
I have to see him.
Who is there?
Leave me alone!
Who are you?
Father!
Don't you recognize me?
Bullets?
I thought you were a pacifist.
I used to be.
Now I'm riding with De Wet.
De Wet?
De Wet only takes the best.
I'm glad you're not a coward.
Come here.
Come.
Let me look at you.
I can't see your face.
It's just a gray spot.
I can't recognize anything.
You"ll get better, father.
The doctor says you shouldn't get upset.
He's a smart one, that doctor.
The wind shall not blow, the bird shall not fly,
and President Kr�ger shall not get upset.
Come, sit by me.
You know what's going on?
Yes, father.
How do you judge the situation?
You have to go to Europe, father.
It's our only resort.
You have to go to Holland, to Germany, to France.
People everywhere are very sympathetic towards us.
Sympathy!
How much does that cost by the pound?
Can you buy canons with it, or a sack full of beans or quinine?
Sympathy!
Don't talk to me about that nonsense.
But you don't have a choice.
Without help from other nations, we"re lost.
I won't leave my people alone.
But it is in the interest of your people.
Make this sacrifice.
You have to, father.
But I'm almost blind!
Just look at me!
What is a half blind, old farmer
supposed to do at the courts of Europe?
But you're the most esteemed of all regents.
And your eyes...
If your mouth can say what your eyes have seen before they turned blind,
then you"ll have to be heard.
Then they"ll have to help you, father.
You"ve already done so much for your Boers.
Now do the most difficult thing.
Go to Europe and plead for your nation.
Do you think it's my duty?
Yes, father.
Duty.
My duty.
Sanna, think it over one more time.
Do you want to come along?
I have to stay with the children.
We might never see each other again.
I know.
Sanna, thank you for the times we shared, both good and bad.
It was good to be with you.
I don't know why all this came over us.
I guess we humans are too ignorant to understand.
L"ve enjoyed my life with you, Paul.
I don't think it's important whether I'm dying there, and you here.
My soul is so entwined with yours
that no distance and no force on Earth can separate us.
Come, guide me.
Is Her Majesty really in such a bad way?
The doctors got together for another consultation.
How is she?
Her Majesty's condition is hopeless.
She could pass away any minute.
Please inform the Prince of Wales right away.
His Royal Highness is in Paris.
Whwn ww bravw Bowr girls
Arw marching into war
Ww facw handsomw gwntlwmwn
Standing thwrw oppositw us
With a smilw, ww dwstroy
Your wholw politics
Ww takw carw of wvwryonw
To thw rhythm of thw music
Wick in hand
Against thw wall
Togwthwr, ww will sort it out
It is thw climatw of Paris
Hwrw, thw world turns into a paradisw
Hwrw, lovw turns into a bond
Thw grwatwst trwasurw That onw can havw
It is thw climatw of Paris
Hwrw, thw world turns into a paradisw
Hwrw, lovw turns into a bond
Thw grwatwst trwasurw That onw can havw
I don't know what you have against Boer broads.
I think they're charming!
The girl in the second row, all the way to the left,
has the most delightful legs!
Whwn ww bravw Bowr girls
Arw marching into war
Ww facw handsomw gwntlwmwn
Standing thwrw opposwd to us
With a smilw, ww dwstroy
Your wholw politics
Ww takw carw of wvwryonw
To thw rhythm of thw music
Wick in hand
Against thw wall
It is thw climatw of Paris
Hwrw, thw world turns into a paradisw
Hwrw, lovw turns into a bond
Thw grwatwst trwasurw That onw can havw
It is thw climatw of Paris
Hwrw, thw world turns into a paradisw
Hwrw, lovw turns into a bond
Thw grwatwst trwasurw That onw can havw
It's too late, my son.
But I have to tell you something.
You mustn't strain yourself, mum. It's bad for you.
But it's important.
We have to end this war with the Boers.
Don't you agree?
Absolutely, mum!
One way or another.
With our victory.
I am very afraid.
I can see something coming. Something terrible is coming our way.
You have to be very clever and very careful, my son.
Always make sure the nations hate each other.
For the day they stop arguing with each other
will be the day of our downfall.
I am so afraid.
Open up!
Hurry!
The English!
Open up!
Hurry! Open up!
How can I help you?
Are there men in the house?
No.
Mama, are those Tommys, too?
Go, Stefan. Go to bed.
You might catch a cold.
It's no use, madam.
No use?
We have plenty of rooms.
I assume this is about quartering?
Unfortunately, no.
I have orders to burn down this farm.
Our house? That can't be possible.
I feel terrible about it, but an order is an order.
We are at war.
Yes, but this is inhuman!
You can't do that!
It's not in my power to make exceptions.
All farms in this district shall be destroyed,
order of Supreme Commander Kitchener!
It's a shame I have to begin right here, but...
Get to work!
But why? For the sake of God!
I'll give you five minutes. Please hurry up!
I still have to burn down 17 farms tonight!
What will become of us?
Don't worry about that, madam.
You will be deported to a concentration camp.
Come on, madam! Hurry up!
Don't leave me behind!
- Hermut! - Here.
- Rotenhagen? - Here.
- Villert? - Here.
- Maischen? - Here.
Grobler?
Where's Grobler?
She passed away yesterday.
Dead?
Saves us another week's ration.
Then give me that...
No! You already got yours.
That's supposed to last a whole week for me and my four children?
We don't do favors here. Go on. Go on.
No! No. I'm not going.
My children are starving!
Didn't you hear?
Go, go, go!
Aren't you ashamed?
Why should I be?
Have you never had a mother?
Oh, please! Go, go!
Mr. Kitchener will get the better of you yet!
Come on, lady! Quick, quick, quick!
"The Boer women solemnly declare to the whole world
that the information about their treatment
in the English concentration camps is maliciously contrived.
The Boer women condemn the senseless fight, which their men,
blinded by the misunderstood love of freedom, continue to wage,
and beg them to put down their arms".
There's no way the women will sign that.
L"ve already tried all methods.
I let the women go hungry.
But nothing helps.
Perhaps your methods weren't right, major.
Please don't say that.
My advancement depends
on my breaking the resistance of these women.
I fought in India and Sudan, but these Boer wenches here are tougher.
But, please, try your luck.
I'll send for President Kr�ger's wife to see you.
Mrs. Sanna Kr�ger!
Are you happy with the food here?
You can be upfront with me. I won't pass it on to the commander.
I'm not afraid of the commander.
That's how the food is. We suffer from hunger.
And every day, hundreds die of typhoid.
Everything is going to be different!
A whole freight train with provisions is waiting at the border.
Frau Kr�ger, just as many mothers are crying in England as in your country.
And I have been sent by the English mothers.
These are good words. God bless you for them.
There's only one minor formality.
You, as the wife of the president,
have to be the first to put your name on this document.
You want us to sign this?
No one will sign that.
No one.
Well, then, I'm afraid I won't be able to help you.
You were not sent by a mother.
You were sent by Satan himself.
Doctor.
I'm the wife of Congressman Kock. My husband's a friend of England.
My husband was close to Cecil Rhodes!
My good woman, I have nothing to do with that.
I'm just a physician here.
You have to help me first!
I'm not supposed to be here!
I'm going to be free again!
What am I going to do if all my children die here?
I can't lose my fourth child, as well!
Typhoid, dear woman, typhoid!
Will he die, too?
Not necessarily. There have been a few who made it.
I'll send you some aspirin later.
What's going on again with these shrews?
Doctor, you have to help me!
I told you, I'll send you some aspirin.
Doctor!
Don't die!
Doctor! Come here!
Look at this!
This is our meat ration!
We're supposed to eat this?
This is indeed unpleasant.
Notify the commander right away!
Let me see what I can do.
If you're trying to kill us, you might as well just shoot us!
That would be quicker!
Who's talking about killing?
What do you want from me, anyway?
What's going on here?
If your husbands would finally stop the resistance,
it would be much easier to treat you better!
They must cause you a great deal of trouble!
Move aside!
Ah, the doctor and his harem!
Well, what is it?
- The food is indeed inadequate! - Inadequate?
I think it's outstanding!
What did you have for breakfast this morning, doctor?
Me? Eggs and ham. Like always.
Very well, then.
So why are you complaining about bad food?
If you don't like the food here, go to the front!
No, no, commander! I just thought...
Murderer!
Old Bloodhound!
One more word, and I'll shoot!
Do it already, you gutless murderer!
Doctor, you're my witness that I acted in self-defense.
Of course, Commander, self-defense.
Only in self-defense, commander.
The unequaled welcome of the German people
must have convinced you of just how fond this nation is of you.
His Majesty, the Emperor, deeply regrets
not being able to see you, Mr. President.
But he hopes to meet you in person sometime in the future,
when you, Mr. President, return to Europe again.
As for today, my highly revered Mr. President, I have been instructed
to convey the very best wishes from His Majesty
to you and your brave nation.
Her Majesty Queen Wilhelmina is inconsolable
not to be able to see you, Mr. President.
Unfortunately the current situation in Europe
is forcing us to be considerate of certain interests.
You understand, Mr. President, don't you?
But Her Majesty has emphatically instructed me,
in the name of the whole of Holland,
the motherland of your brave Boers, to send you her warmest regards.
Her Majesty hopes that Heaven will answer her daily prayers,
and that the fight of the heroic, and so closely related Boer nation,
will soon be brought to a victorious end.
The President of the Republic and the whole of France
are following the heroic fight
of the brave Boer nation with the most spirited sympathy.
From one republic to another, your cause is our cause.
Even though the present situation, unfortunately, won't allow us
to put the feelings of our deepest solidarity into action,
we still ask you, highly revered Mr. President,
to send our sincerest regards and wishes to your brave nation,
which, by defending its freedom,
is fighting for the freedom of all democracies of this world.
Where's my wife?
Where are the children?
At the camp?
Petra!
Jan!
For God's sake, be careful!
Petra.
My love.
Jan.
Are you alone?
There are only a few of us, but we'll try.
We will free you from this hell.
It's too late, Jan.
God, what did we do to get punished like that?
How is mother?
She is strong and healthy.
And the children?
Pia?
Stefan?
Don't tell me they are...
- Yes. - Dead?
Typhoid.
Those bastards!
- Those bastards! - Quiet!
I'll return. Tomorrow night.
Jan!
Jan Kr�ger is to be hanged as a rebel.
As an added punishment, the inmates of the camp,
specifically the relatives of the traitor,
are to attend the execution.
This will keep you from disturbing my sleep in the future.
Jan!
- Who's that? - His wife.
His wife? Very good.
She shall have the best seat.
I protest!
Summon her.
Yes! I want to see it!
I want to see it! So I will never forget it!
Petra.
Be strong, Jan.
Be strong.
I will look into your eyes until the very last moment.
Do you hear me, Jan?
Until the very last moment.
Dearest wife, nothing can separate us.
My soul will always be with you.
Yes.
I shall die for you, for our nation, and our fatherland.
Justice and freedom have been taken from us.
But the belief in our good cause is stronger than death.
That's it! Hang him!
A curse on England!
Open fire!
That was the end.
That's how England subdued our small nation
with the most barbarous means.
But, eventually, the day of retribution will come.
I don't know when.
But all that blood could not have been spilled in vain.
So many tears will not be cried in vain.
We were just a small, weak nation.
Great and powerful nations will revolt against the British tyranny.
They will knock England down to the ground.
God will be with them.
And they shall clear the way for a better world.