♪ (triumphant orchestral music) ♪ (sentimental music) (wolf barks) (wolf barks & howls) (door opens) - Well, home from the movies at last.

- Looks like it, Aunt Mattie.

- Hello, Dad.

- [man] Hello son.

Well Daughter, how was the moving picture tonight?

- Mmm, lovely!

- Mush, that's what it was.

Just a lot of mush.

There wasn't anybody killed in the whole thing!

- Well, then I'll stick to these.

These don't talk.

- And that big clut Norman Maine was in the picture tonight.

Never does anything but kiss a lot of girls.

- Norman Maine is one of the best actors in pictures.

- You and your movies!

That's all you think about.

You shouldn't be allowed to go to 'em at all, if you're asking me.

- Too bad I was so busy in the kitchen...

I didn't hear anybody asking you.

- Hello Granny.

- Hello, darling.

- But of course, no one ever listens to me.

- They do if they was in 10 miles of ya.

- Gabbing around pictures shows, house all cluttered up with movie magazines, and the other day I caught her talking to a horse with a Swedish accent!

- Now Sis!

We're only young once, you know.

- Ah...Hollywood!

You'd better be getting yourself a good husband and stop mooning about Hollywood!

Do you know what she wants to do?

She wants to go to Hollywood!

[Mattie] I've known it all along.

I've seen her making faces in the mirror and talking to herself...that's what comes of your movies!

- Why, what would you do if you did go to Hollywood?

- I'd be an actress.

(Mattie laughs) I would, I tell you!

I've always known I could.

- [boy] Guys, wouldn't it be wonderful to have a movie star in the family?

Oh Ms. Blodgett, may I have your autograph?

- You may not know it, Aleck, but you're practically on your way to bed.

- Oh Ms. Blodgett, you're my favorite actress!

Won't you tell me the secret of your success?

- Oh, let me alone!

- I ask now, what's come over you?

- I'll tell you what's come over her!

She's just a silly little girl who's head has been turned by the movies, and as soon as she forgets the whole thing, the better off she'll be!

- Why will I be better off?

What's wrong with wanting to get out and make something of myself?

What do you do that's so much better?

Just because you're satisfied to sit here all your life, you think you can laugh at me?

Well someday you won't laugh at me!

I'm going out and have a real life.

I'm gonna be somebody!

(feet scrambling) (door bangs) - Now if it was spring, I'd say give her a good dose of sulfur and molasses.

♪ (melancholy music) (door opens) - I thought I'd find you up.

Ah, stop that...now stop crying, that isn't gonna do you a bit of good.

- Oh, I'm crying because Aunt Mattie and Aleck make me so mad.

- Oh, Aleck and Aunt Mattie (scoffs)... they're not important!

You're the only one that counts!

Esther, everyone in this world who has ever dreamed about better things has been laughed at.

Don't you know that?

- Oh I suppose I do, but-- - But there's a difference between dreaming and doing.

The dreamers just sit around and moon about how wonderful it would be if only things were different... and the years roll on and they grow old... and by and by, they forget everything, even about their dreams.

- Oh, I don't want to be like that.

I want to be somebody.

- Oh yeah, oh yeah, you want to be somebody... but you want it to be easy.

Oh, you rotten girls give me a pain.

When I wanted something better, I came across those plains in a prairie schooner with your grandfather.

Oh, everyone laughed at us as they did at all the other pioneers.

They said this country would never be anything but a wilderness.

We didn't believe that.

We were going to make a new country!

Besides...we wanted to see how dreams come true.

- Oh Granny, it must have been wonderful!

- It was wonderful... but don't you think for one single minute that it was easy, Esther Blodgett.

We burned in summer and we froze in winter, but we kept right on going and we didn't complain, because we were doing what we wanted to do!

Can you understand that?

- Yes, I can.

- Could you do it?

Could you do it even if it broke your heart?

Because, remember Esther, for every dream of yours you make come true, you'll pay the price in heartbreak.

♪ (sentimental music) I know what I'm talking about.

You may not believe it...but I was a young girl once... a very pretty young girl, a lot prettier than you are.

And I was in love with your grandfather... when some Indian devil put a bullet through him.

It was as if it had come right straight through my heart, too... And I remembered all he taught me... and I went right on.

I buried him out there in that wilderness with my own hands... and I went right on that same day... and I kept right on going... even when your mother was born.

- Oh Granny...I want to make it worthwhile.

♪ (sentimental music) - You know Esther, there'll always be a wilderness to conquer.

Maybe Hollywood's your wilderness now.

From all I hear, it...sounds like it.

But if you've got one drop of my blood in your veins, you won't let Mattie or any of her kind break your heart.

You'll go right out there and break it yourself... that's your right!

♪ (sentimental music) Here...oh, here here, stop that nonsense.

Here...take this and go to your Hollywood.

- [Esther] Oh, I can't take your money!

- [Grandmother] Well, why not?

- [Esther] It's your savings!

- Well, I was only saving up for my funeral... now I don't think I'm ever going to die.

- Oh, Granny...how can I ever thank you?

- By giving me your word of honor that you will never tell a living soul where you got that money.

- I promise.

- Remember!

If you do...

I'll have you arrested for robbing me!

(door closes) (train whistle blows) - [Granny] Whoa whoa whoa...here we are.

- I'll help you, Granny.

- Oh I can make it, dear.

(Granny groans) My, it's cold..brrrr!

- I kissed Dad goodbye.

Just a little kiss, he didn't even wake up.

- I bet you didn't try that on your Aunt Mattie.

- Oh, Aunt Mattie.

Think of her face when you tell her!

- I am thinking about it!

I've waited for that chance for 30 years!

- [station attendant] There she is, girls.

- [Granny] Oh, thank you kindly.

Girls, huh?

(train rumbles) (station bell rings) [Granny] Well... come on, come on... here's your prairie schooner.

(station bell rings) (train rumbles) (train rumbles) ♪ (sentimental music) - [conductor] All aboard!

- Oh, Granny!

♪ (sentimental music) - Go on, go on, go on, go on!

- Goodbye Granny!

- Goodbye!

I'll be waitin' for you in those moving pictures.

Don't tell Mattie... You know my eyes are not as good as they used to be, but my ears are alright!

So you remember: talk up good and loud!

- All aboard!

(train whistle blows) - [Granny] Goodbye!

- [Esther] Bye!

♪ (sentimental music) [Esther] Bye Granny!

- Goodbye... (train chugs away) ♪ (sentimental music) - [man] Do you wanna go home now?

(train whistle blows in distance) - [Granny] I don't want to...but I will.

♪ (upbeat music) ♪ (soft upbeat music) ♪ (upbeat music) ♪ (soft music) (Esther clears throat) (buzzer honks) - Good afternoon!

- Day, week or month?

- Well, it's a little hard to say, you see...

I'm going into the movies.

- Well, you better take it for a week.

It'll break your jump to Beverly Hills.

- Are all the studios really near here?

- All except Gaumont British.

- I suppose the best way to get a job is to go straight to the studios, isn't it?

- [clerk] Um-hmm.

- I haven't any illusions, you know.

I'm perfectly willing to begin with, oh, a little bit of a part, or even as an extra.

- Six dollars, please.

In advance.

- Oh... ♪ (serene orchestral music) (door closes) I beg your pardon...

I'd like to register for extra work.

- How long have you been in Hollywood?

- Well, it's about a month now.

- [receptionist] We haven't put anyone on our books for over two years.

Come here...

I'd like to show you something.

(door opens) (indistinct chatter) Every time you see one of those little lights flash, it's somebody asking for a job.

[receptionist] Every time you hear them say try later, it means there isn't any job.

Can't keep the girls at the switchboard long, they'd go crazy.

(door closes) Every one of those little lights thought it was going to be a star.

Still want to go in the movies?

♪ (melancholy music) You know what your chances are?

One in a hundred thousand.

♪ (melancholy music) - But maybe...I'm that one.

(door opens) Any phone calls for me, Mr. Randall?

- Uh, no.

Jesse Laskin and Sammy Goldwyn must be writing letters instead.

How was the luck today?

- There wasn't any.

- Maybe you don't at it in the right way.

Now take Danny McGuire here.

He knows the ropes, now don't you Danny?

- Sure, I've had 'em around my neck for years.

(buzzer honks) - What?

Oh...Ms. Blodgett, Danny McGuire.

Our new tenant.

- How do you do?

- Mr. McGuire is a...big director.

- Oh...are you really?

Oh, could you possibly use me in a picture, Mr. McGuire?

Of course, I haven't had much experience, but...

I don't think that really matters if you're willing... and I really feel-- - Now listen, lady...

In the first place, I'm not a director, I'm an assistant director, and in the second place, if I had any jobs to give away, I'd confirm one on myself, and in the third place, you should have stayed back home in the first place.

(feet running up stairs) - Oh, now look what you've done.

- Hey, wait a minute!

Hey, don't be that way!

(door unlocks & opens) Don't do that... Gosh, I didn't mean to get tough, but... a guy thinks he's being kidded when...somebody asks him for a job and...he hasn't got one for himself.

(blows nose softly) And after all, I'm not a big enough shot to hurt your feelings.

- I'm sorry...it wasn't just that, it was a lot of things.

Looking for a job every day and never getting any nearer to it.

I guess I was beginning to get a little scared.

- I know...lady, do I know!

Well, there's only one thing to do with that feeling when you're tired and sunk and down to your last nickel: come on, and I'll buy you a drink!

- Well it's not as bad as down to the last nickel.

I've still got $11 left.

- $11!

YOU'RE gonna buy ME a drink!

Come on.

♪ (piano music) [Danny] That's right George, there's nothing like a little rum to take away that milk flavor.

♪ (piano music) (Esther laughs) (chairs clatter) I beg your pardon!

- Certainly!

♪ (piano music) And when I sign my contract, the first thing I'm going to do is see that you direct every picture I'm in.

- That's my pal.

(smack) - Of course, I was gonna be perfectly nice about it, but...

I'll just insist!

(smack) - Now that's the way to talk.

Don't let 'em lick ya.

- No, they can't lick me!

If they try anything like that, well I...

I just won't sign.

- Now that's right.

What have you got to lose?

Another one of those and we'll open our own studio!

(glasses clink) - [Randall] "Bill rendered, $24...past due.

Remit without further delay."

(pen scratches) Me!

(Randall mutters to himself) (bangs on table) (paper tears) Now, the fifth race, the fifth race... (mumbling) (indistinct chatter) (string instruments warm up) - Hey, the program's gonna be swell tonight.

Now you take this fellow Beethoven, I'm a pushover for him, and Chopin... well, he's not so dusty either... but I kinda wish that once in a while they'd play something you could sort of go out whistling, you know, like (sings) Blood on the saddle, blood on... Well, there's a tune.

Hey why don't you throw your hat in the air or something, can't you?

This is a celebration.

My job starts tomorrow.

- I know it does, and I think it's swell, Danny.

- Gee, I wish you were in on it too... but oh no, it would have to be a war picture, one of those big novelty numbers.

A war picture without any beautiful women at the front.

Oh well, something will happen soon.

- Maybe.

- Why don't you go home, kid?

- Oh Danny, I can't do that.

I came here, and I've got to stay.

- Well now, if it's on account of money, I can-- - Oh thank you, you've given me enough already.

Anyhow, this is no time to be worrying.

This is a party.

Look at all the people.

Everybody in the world!

(indistinct chatter) Look!

That's Norman Maine!

(indistinct chatter) - Uh-huh, and he seems to have had that one extra cocktail.

(applause) - Oh, thank you!

(applause) - Sit down, you dope!

That's for the orchestra leader.

(seat clatters) (Danny chuckles) ♪ (orchestra plays) - [Maine] Hello, Howard!

How are you?

- [Howard] Hello, Norman!

- Oh, Mr. Maine?

Mr. Maine?

Put your arm around Ms. Regis.

- Arnold, this is the Hollywood Bowl.

- Oh, afraid of crowds?

- Just go on, go on, get out of here.

- What's a'matter?

You gettin' too big to bother with photographers?

- Don't want any pictures taken now!

- Oh, is that so?

Well, supposin' I take it anyway!

- I'm gonna shove that Brownie #2 of yours down your throat!

- Thank you Mr. Maine.

- [Ms. Regis] Norman, drop it!

(commotion) (commotion) ♪ (orchestra plays) - [man] Take it easy, Mr. Maine!

- [man] Calm down.

- [Ms. Regis] Normie, come back and sit down.

Everybody's laughing at you.

(seat clatters) - [Maine] Hello Ron!

How are you?

- [Ron] Hi Norman.

♪ (orchestra plays) - Is he always like that?

- Well I suppose he has to sleep sometime.

- Oh, and he's so wonderful on the screen.

♪ (orchestra plays) - Shhhh!

♪ (orchestra plays) ♪ (serene orchestral music) (knocking on door) - Come in.

(door opens) Hello, Danny.

What's the matter?

- Well believe it or not, I got a job for you.

- Danny, that's wonderful!

When do I go to the studio?

- Well, you don't exactly go to the studio-- - Oh, it's on location!

- Well, it's not exactly on location either-- - But of course, I haven't any makeup.

Would you tell me what to get and sort of help me put it on?

- Well, you don't exactly need any makeup.

You see, it's not really a picture job, it's... well, it's being a waitress.

- Oh... - Well it's kind of a picture job, if you look at it right.

- You said it was a waitress.

- Well it's waitressing for Casey Burke, the big director over at our studio.

He's giving a party tonight to kind of celebrate on account of finishing the picture, and... and he wanted me to get him an extra waitress and it's $5...and I thought of you right away, Esther.

- That was awfully sweet of you, Danny.

- Well...well there's gonna be a lot of big people at Burke's house tonight, and I'll bet you there's any number of big directors, and if you're there, maybe they'll notice you.

- I could make them notice me.

- Sure you could, Esther.

It's your chance!

- My chance... Alright Danny, I'll do it!

Oh but I can't, I haven't got the right things to wear.

- Oh oh, here!

(bag rustles) Now you don't think the wardrobe department's right next to my office for nothing, do you?

Ha, a perfect fit!

♪ (light party music) - [man] Did you get to the preview last night?

- I did.

- (silly accent) Would you like a little hors d'oeuvres?

They are very nice.

- Uh, thanks.

What did you think of the picture?

- [man] They should have saved it for Thanksgiving.

What a turkey!

(man chuckles) - (silly accent) Will you have some hors d'oeuvres?

You do like hors d'oeuvres, don't you?

I don't think there's anything so enjoyable as hors d'oeuvres before supper, and these are really delightful!

- [man] And at the finish, the kid turns around and sings the lullaby to it's mother.

- (silly accent) Pardon me big boys, but would you like a little hors d'oeuvres?

They say they're the best in town.

- Don't tell me... (snaps fingers) I know, Mae West!

That's a great twist, but where you gonna find a two month old baby that can sing?

- Hello Oliver.

- Oh, hello Casey.

- You want to fire me now or wait 'till you see the picture?

I'm not a director anymore, I'm a...male nurse.

- What's the matter with the picture?

- A guy by the name of Norman Maine.

His work is beginning to interfere with his drinking.

Oliver...don't tell me I'm to direct his next picture too?!

- Uh-huh.

- You were my favorite producer.

- Now wait a minute, you just go right on with your directing.

I'll take care of these stars.

I know how to handle them.

I had a serious talk with Norman after that Hollywood Bowl occurrence, and you don't have to worry anymore about his behavior.

- [man] Excuse me Mr. Niles... Mr. Libby of your publicity department is on the telephone.

He says it's most important, sir.

It's about Mr. Maine.

- Thank you.

Oh, it's probably just some little thing.

- (chuckles) Of course, Oliver.

I'll turn on the radio and see if they've called out the National Guard yet.

- Hello Libby, what's the good word?

- Mr. Norman Maine, America's Prince Charming, was apprehended driving an ambulance down Wilshire Boulevard with a siren going full blast.

He explained he was a tree surgeon on a maternity case.

- Well, will it be in the papers?

- No, it won't be in the papers, but that's a nice, expensive hobby of yours: keeping Mr. Maine's informal entertainments out of the public press.

- Oh, that's fine work, Libby.

Try and see that no one gets to Norman.

He's probably home sleeping it off.

- Oliver...(tsks)...why can't you forget those dopes at the studio for one night?

Business, business all the time.

I don't know what's gonna become of you.

- Norman!

Why didn't you call for me?

- I'll be, darling, why didn't I call for you?

- In case you've forgotten, I was supposed to come here with you.

- Oh that, well, that's alright.

I got here without any trouble.

- The only reason I don't slap your face-- - [Maine] Yes, darling, I know... Hello, John!

- Oh, hello Norman.

- What's the matter with Oliver?

He looks as if he'd had bad news.

Hello!

Hello Mary.

What's the matter, old boy?

- Maybe I'm wrong.

I guess I've been drinking too much lately.

- Oh, you have to cut it down.

It's bad stuff.

Scotch and soda.

(liquid pours) Come on, come on, come on... - The word, you know, is pronounced "when."

- Bad dialogue, Oliver.

- I'd rather not watch this.

- You know best.

Soda!

Thank you.

(pinball rattles) Go ahead and say it.

I've got it coming to me.

- Don't make it tougher on me, Norman.

I don't wanna stand here and preach, but take a look at my side of it.

I'm trying to make pictures with you!

- I know, I know...

The costs are going up, and the grosses are going down.

- No, it isn't that.

I've made lots of money with you, and I can afford to take a loss...but I hate to see you going the way of so many others.

- Why don't you get Lloyd's to insure you against me?

- You can't get insurance against a man forgetting who he is.

You're a great star Norman, but there's nobody so big that can afford to have people refuse to work with him.

- Who doesn't wanna work with me?!

- Shhh, quiet!

- Listen, I know plenty of people who do.

- Yes and so do I, but your real friends can't stand seeing you start to fall apart.

- What do you mean by that?

- The first signs are always the same; not being able to remember your lines, cameramen struggling to cover your hangovers, and all because you have to have a good time, every day and every night!

Listen, I've warned you for a long time, Norman-- - Okay Oliver, you're a swell guy.

You won't lose any money on me, I'll promise you that.

I'll be ready for the curtains when the time comes.

When it does... here's my epithet.

And now I think I'll... have a little drink.

Scotch and soda.

Scotch and soda.

(liquid pours) Come on, come on, come on... (liquid pours) and a little soda?

- Hors d'oeuvres?

- No thank--yes!

Pardon me.

Hi...lovely, lovely.

No, I--I mean the caviar... No, don't go away...

I'm starving, really.

Really.

[Maine] Which... which would you take?

- Oh, I don't know... - Don't you know?

Oh, I don't know either.

It's hard to choose...but I think I'll take caviar.

- Mr. Maine doesn't care for any more.

Do you, Normie?

- No... Normie doesn't care for any more.

- I think I shall get very drunk, indeed.

Scotch and so--(chuckles), sorry, I have some here.

- Oh!

- Mind if I help?

(plates clatter) - Won't they miss you?

- Oh no no, they'll just look under the table, and when they see I'm not there, they'll forget the whole matter (chuckles).

Say what, eh... What's your name?

- Esther Blodgett.

- My name's Maine.

- I know.

- You do?

Well... (Esther giggles) (plate clatters) - What's so funny?

- I was just thinking about all your fans, and how surprised they'd be to see you here, helping me put plates away.

- Oh, they don't know my finer side.

- They'd be pretty envious of me, meeting you this way in person.

- How do you do?

Well tell me... are you disappointed?

- Yes.

(plate shatters) Now you've done it!

- Oh, never mind that.

That makes the room look lived in.

Tell me...why are you disappointed?

- I was sitting behind you at the Hollywood Bowl the night you didn't wanna be photographed.

(plate shatters) - Yeah...

I'm told I crept into many a heart that night.

- Oh, I could never explain this!

- You know, you have very pretty hair.

- You'd better get out of here!

- [Maine] And a sensitive mouth, and a charming little dimple-- - Exactly why are you here instead of with the rest of the guests?

- I'm just trying to be helpful.

- I see.

Are you sure there's no other attraction?

- Well, it might be that my old mania for putting plates away is coming back on me.

- It's rather odd I always know where I can find you, if there's a pretty girl around.

- It's not only odd, it's embarrassing.

- You're being deliberately insulting, Norman!

I've put up with it long enough!

- Now now now dear, don't lose your temper.

Remember, we must try to keep the voice low.

I know you'll excuse us if we go on with our work.

(plate shatters) (thump) - Now see what you've done!

(Maine whistles) - Come here...help me up.

- Are you hurt?

- No, no more than usual.

Come on, the wolves are on us!

We gotta get out of here.

- Well I can't, the dishes aren't finished!

- Oh yes they are!

(dishes shatter) (feet stumbling) (car rumbles softly) (brakes squeal) Well...

I'll bet I know what you're gonna say now.

- What?

- Goodnight.

- Goodnight, and thanks.

(car door opens) - Hey, wait a minute!

Wait a minute... Hey...do you realize that... all I found out about you was that you're foolish enough to want to go into pictures?

- Why is it foolish?

Look at you.

- Yeah...that's what I mean.

No, I'd...I'd rather like to go into this matter a little more thoroughly.

- Well that's awfully nice of you.

- Why, uh... Why don't we go on up to my place and, uh... talk it over?

- Oh no, thank you very much, but...

I really must say goodnight.

- [Maine] Goodnight.

- But, you're not angry?

- No, no no...I'm hungry.

♪ (soft music) - Well... why don't you go and get something to eat?

- Goodnight, Ms. Blodgett.

- Goodnight, Mr. Maine.

- [Maine] Wait a minute!

Here... the least I can do is to see you to your door.

(car door closes) [Maine] Will I see you again?

- [Esther] I hope so... - Has anyone ever told you that you're lovely?

Well, now you know.

- Thank you.

♪ (soft music) - [Maine] It's, um...

It's hard to say, but I...

I want to say it anyway.

You know, on the screen, I'm a...you know...

In private life, I'm a... You know!

But...whatever I do, I...

I still respect lovely things... and you're lovely.

Do you understand?

- Yes, I think I do.

- [Maine] And it isn't that bump on the head that's doing this.

- Well, I'm glad.

♪ (soft music) - [Maine] Goodnight.

- Goodnight.

♪ (soft music) - Hey!

You mind if I take just one more look?

♪ (soft music) (phone rings) - Go away!

Quite impossible!

(phone rings) I wouldn't even consider it.

Oh, no no!

(phone rings) Hello?

Who is it?

Who?

Norman?!

What have you done now?

You're not in jail are you?!

Ohhhh...

Yes, I see.

Oh, it's that again!

I see.

She's beautiful... Yeah, I know, you want me to give her a screen test.

Yeah, certainly.

She's got wonderful possibilities.

Oh, you know she's got something... and you knew all the other ones had something too.

- Oh no...I tell you, Oliver, she's got that sincerity, and honestness...and... (stammers) sincerity and honestness that makes great actresses.

You-- Oliver, I am so sure of this girl, that I wanna take the test with her myself.

(Oliver sighs) Listen Oliver, you've worked hard.

You're entitled to a break.

You-- (whistles into phone) - Yes, I heard you.

Anything, ANYTHING!

Yes...yes!

- Oliver, look... you try to get a little sleep now, old man.

Alright, boy.

Goodnight!

(chuckles).

(phone sets down) (mutters to himself) Wait a minute now... Telephone book...telephone book!

Where is the telephone book?

There you are, little telephone book!

(excited drunken mumbling) (bedsheets rustle) (mumbles) (phone clatters) (phone dial clicks) (mumbles) (phone clatters) (page tears) (knocking on door) - [Esther] Yes?

- Telephone.

- [Esther] For me?

- Some drunk trying to be funny.

Says he's Norman Maine.

- [Esther] Oh...oh, thanks, I'll be right down.

- And Ms. Blodgett...would you give him a message from me?

Tell him it's THREE O' CLOCK IN THE MORNING!

(footsteps down stairs) (books thumps open) - Hello?

What?

Oh... Oh!

Oh...oh yes, yes, I'll be there!

Oh, thank you!

(feet race up stairs) (Esther knocks on door) Danny!

Danny!

- Huh?

Oh!

- Danny, what do you think?

I'm gonna take a test tomorrow, and Norman Maine's helping me do it!

- Mmmm, I'm taking one too... and Garbo's assisting me.

(Danny snores) (door closes) (feet scramble & door opens) (door closes) (light bursts) (Randall groans) (indistinct chatter) - [man] Move that gobo in!

Put a silk on that sign.

- [man] No, the Yankee.

- Is this light to hot for you, Haley?

- [man] Okay, but put that on the back one.

- Put a dober on that ninety!

[man] Bring it down a little.

That's it.

(indistinct chatter) [man] Pull down on that 150.

(indistinct chatter) [man] Pull down on that 150.

(puffing sound) (indistinct chatter) (indistinct chatter) (puff) (indistinct chatter) (indistinct chatter) - [Burke] Listen, gentlemen, please, if you don't mind!

This is just a test!

- [man] Ready Mr. Burke!

- [man] All ready Mr. Burke!

- Ready Mr. Burke!

- Ready now, Mr. Burke.

- [man] We're ready now, Mr. Burke.

- All ready, Mr. Burke.

- We're ready, Mr. Burke.

- Alright, let's take it.

- Quiet!

(all shout "Quiet" sequentially) - Ready, Norman.

- Yup!

- You ready Miss, what's-your-name?

- He'll soon know your name, Esther.

The whole world's going to know it.

- But I'm so scared...maybe I better not try today.

- Oh, come on now, don't be foolish!

They all had to go through this: Harlow, Lombard, Myrna Loy... and now, Esther Blodgett.

- Alright...I'm ready.

- This is a take.

Roll 'em.

[Burke] Quiet.

- [man] Take!

(clapboard snaps) - I may as well tell you that my whole organization thinks I've gone a little nuts to sign you.

[Oliver] Well, maybe they're right.

I've been nuts before.

You see, all the experts seem to think that your type is a little mild for present day taste... but I rather believe that tastes change, like eyebrows, and I think that also like eyebrows, tastes are going back to the natural.

You look like a nice girl.

I think I'm going to like you.

That's not important.

I think the public will like you.

That IS important.

- Yes...I see what you mean.

I mean, I know it is.

- Well, don't think it's going to be easy.

Nothing you really want is ever given away free.

You have to pay for it...and usually with your heart.

- Someone else told me that once.

- But you still have to work it out for yourself.

Alright, all this is just a long way of saying I'm glad you're with us, and good luck to you... and now I'm going to turn you over to our dear pressman, Libby.

Don't let him frighten you, he has a heart of gold, only harder.

And for the love of Pete, learn to close your mouth and keep it closed... even in your love scenes.

(door slide shut) - Are you a Russian?

- No, I was born in Fillmore, North Dakota.

- Oh, no... "Grace saw light of day... in a mountain cabin, (typewriter chatters) a trapper's hut, high up in the Rockies."

(typewriter chatters) Go on.

- Well, I always wanted to be an actress.

- "Dreamed of footlights as lonely kiddie."

(typewriter chatters) Are you sure there's no Russian in your family?

- Positive.

- That's a shame.

Well, what does your father do?

- He's a farmer.

- Meh... - "Social registered father... fed up with hypocrisies of 400, sought wilderness for consolation.

There amidst the mountain flowers, he raised another blossom... his lovely little daughter..." What's your name?

- Esther Victoria Blodgett.

(doors slide open) - "Greatly appreciating your attention in this matter, very truly--" - Do you know what her name is?

Esther Victoria Blodgett.

- Gee, we'll have to do some- thing about that right away.

- Esther Victoria Blodgett!

(feet thump on table) - Well, that Blodgett's definitely out.

Let's see, Esther Victoria, Victoria...Vicki!

How about Vicki?

- Oh, I think that's terribly cute!

- Let's see, Vicki... Vicki what?

- Vicki Vicki, pronounced "Vicki...Vicki."

- Siesta, besta, sesta, desta, festa... - Oh, that's very pretty.

- Jester, hester, dester, lester, Vicki Lester!

- Oh, I like that!

- Say it.

- Vicki Lester.

- Say it again.

- [secretary] Vicki Lester.

- [Oliver] Say it again.

- [secretary] Vicki Lester.

- Say it!

- Vicki Lester!

- [Oliver] Say Vicki Lester.

- Vicki Lester.

- Vicki Lester.

- Vicki Lester.

- Vicki Lester.

- Vicki...Lester.

- Fresh!

- "Oliver Niles Studio discovers new starlet, a Cinderella of the Rockies, her name is Vicki Lester.

Those how have peeked tell me she couldn't be more devoon.

The face of an angel and such natural talents.

Her voice is a symphony, her very walk they tell me is enough to drive men mad!"

- [coach] Not that way!

Get the lead out of your feet!

Lift 'em up!

That's better.

It's terrible, but it's better.

- The quality of mercy is not strained.

It dropeth as the gentle rain from heaven.

- Cease!

Through the mouth, my child, through the mouth.

The nose is for smelling roses (chuckles).

Proceed.

- Does she have to look surprised all the time?

(faint indistinct chatter) [stylist] Anyway, it's just a rough sketch.

- Pretty small mouth, eh?

Oh, well... - Give her that Crawford smear.

This'll give her that (speaks gibberish).

We are on the wrong track.

She still looks surprised.

- Listen up, people!

We're shooting on the set this morning, not in the commissary!

Now come on, snap into it!

- (exaggerated accent) "Acme Trucking Company!

No, Mr. Smith is not in."

(bored tone) "Acme Trucking Company... (snobby accent) No... Mr. Smith is not in."

- Good morning!

What can I bring you, Mr. Maine?

- That just shows how long you've been here.

- Minerva, bless you.

How soon are you and I gonna be married, huh?

- I don't know...you'll have to ask my mother.

(egg cracks) - [Esther] (Russian accent) "Acme Trucking Company... No, Mr. Smith is not in."

(chipper tone) "Acme Trucking Company!

No, Mr. Smith is not in."

(ghetto accent) "Acme!

Nah, Smith ain't in."

(Maine gags) "Acme Trucking Company--" - I'd like to speak to Mr. Smith, please.

- "Mr. Smith is not..." Oh, Norman!

- What's all this between you and Smith?

- I got a part!

It's only one line, but it's in a picture!

- So it's ambition that made you break that date with me last night.

- Well, I had to be here so early this morning and-- - So did I. I had to stay up all night to make it.

- You started your picture, haven't you?

- No, no, we're still in the testing stage.

We can't seem to get the right girl for the lead.

- Gee...you'd think with all the girls there are that-- - Yeah I know, but this one's got to be different.

She's got to be little, and cute, and sweet, intelligent... Well, blow me down... - What?

- Well, close my tired old eyes!

- Well, what is it--?

- Hold everything!

Come on...come on!

(feet scrambling) And you've been through the whole casting directory!

- I'll work day and night, Mr. Niles-- - And I'll work with her, Oliver-- - And I can be mean or nasty or anything you want, Mr. Niles.

- If she clicks, Oliver, you've got a star overnight.

- Okay.

♪ (regal trumpet music) (audience applause) ♪ (regal trumpet music) ♪ (serene orchestral music) - Wait 'till you hear them at the end of the picture!

♪ (serene orchestral music) - Do you think we were noticed?

- By no one.

They're much too busy playing at croquet.

I've loved you all my life.

- But, we only met two days ago.

- That's...when my life began.

♪ (serene orchestral music) (city street sounds) - Ain't she cute?

You know, I think she's the same type I am, don't you?

- [woman] I think she's sweet.

- Well, it's Vicki Lester's picture, alright.

- I think she was much better than he was.

- [woman] These producers are so horribly dumb.

They won't know how good she is.

- [man] Well, maybe it's because she's a good girl.

(indistinct chatter) - Norman Maine's not so bad, but it's Vicki Lester they'll go to see.

- Isn't she a darling?

I think she's the most precious little thing I've ever seen!

- She's a knockout, Libby.

- You might mention that when you write your review.

- That Lester kid's a goldmine.

- Didn't you like Norman Maine?

- Was he in it?

(chuckles) - Libby, I'm afraid we have another hit.

- It's in the bag, neatly tied up with beautiful pink ribbon.

- Say, where are Norman and Vicki?

- I don't know.

I thought you had 'em.

- I wish they'd come, we're having a party at the Trocadero.

- Oh, isn't it thrilling running away from people?

Norman, it's so exciting, so-- - So new, eh?

A star is born...come on.

♪ (soft music plays) - It's wonderful, isn't it?

A crazy quilt.

♪ (soft music plays) - [Maine] It's a carpet, spread for you.

It's all yours from now on, you know?

Come Esther, you're a success.

You have everything in the world you want.

I hope it'll make you happy.

- Hasn't it you?

- That was one thing I never had.

Lots of times I...told myself I'd found it, but I always knew I was lying.

Still, I never stopped looking for it.

- Maybe it'll come.

- Oh, I think it has come, Esther.

I only wish it weren't too late.

- Oh, but it's not too late.

- No, you can't throw throw away a life the way I've thrown away mine and... have anything left that's good enough...no.

- You can...Norman, you can.

- You mustn't tell me that, Esther.

I'm so afraid that I'll believe it.

♪ (soft music) (crowd noise) - Get him, Kotcher... shoot your right!

Swell, isn't it?

- Lovely.

- Watch Kotcher again.

Can't you hear me, Kotcher?

Shoot your right!

(punches popping) (crowd noise) (crowd noise) He got 'em!

Kotcher got him!

Kotcher got him!

- He did, didn't he?

- Yeah, but he'll up though.

You like it?

- Sure I do.

- You like me?

- Sure I do.

(punches popping) - That reminds me, will you marry me?

- No thank you.

- Come on Kotcher, finish him!

Why won't you marry me?

- You're not dependable-- - Hey, shoot your right!

- You throw away your money-- - Break 'em up in there, break 'em up-- - And you drink so much.

(punches popping) - Suppose I quit drinking?

- Yeah?

- Come on Kotcher, shoot the right in there!

The right!

Suppose I save my money?

- Yeah?

- There he goes!

Let him have it!

Suppose I became absolutely dependable?

- Yeah?

(pow) (thump) (crowd noise) - Eh, Kotcher!

He got him!

He got him!

- He certainly did.

♪ (triumphant music plays) - Gee, that was a beautiful fight.

- Norman?

- What dear?

- Would you do all that for me if I said I'd marry you?

- Oh, certainly not.

That was just supposing.

We're going to be married.

Guess I didn't read that line right.

I'll try it again.

We are going to be married.

- Both of us.

- To each other.

What do you think of that?

- Whh--when?

Where?

- Well, we thought we'd elope in the conventional manner.

- What's the matter?

- He's trying to decide whether it's good for the studio.

- Is it?

- It is...and bless you, my children.

When's it going to happen?

- Oh, we thought we'd just sneak out sometime.

- We're not telling anyone but you.

(doors burst open) - Listen to this!

"The screen's ideal romance blossomed into breathtaking reality today when Vicki Lester and Norman Maine, America's dream lovers, slipped quietly through the portals of holy matrimony."

How does it sound?

- Horrible.

- But you see, we're going to elope.

- Sure you are.

It'll be the biggest elopement this town ever saw.

We'll get a tie up with the Army, have you escorted all the way down to Yuma by 20 of their new bombing planes.

- Is he going with us?

- Don't you think we can work this thing out better alone?

No sense in bothering the happy couple with all the details.

I'll see to it that you get a carbon copy of the whole layout.

- I can hardly wait.

I'm sorry, we didn't realize that we were in the way.

While you're settling the details, you don't mind if I take this woman out and buy her a ring, do you?

- [Libby] Sure, go ahead.

We want everything legal.

(doors thud) That's a charming match.

A nice girl like Vicki, and public nuisance number one.

- Now wait a minute Libby, Norman's alright, and if you'll pardon my pointing, Vicki's business is her own.

It doesn't require any comments.

- I wasn't making any comments.

I just said it was a rotten shame.

- Go ahead and plan the elopement.

- Oh, that elopement stuff is out.

You can't get any scope in that.

We're gonna have a wedding.

Where will we have it?

- Customary place, I believe, is a church.

- Nah.

It's been done.

This has gotta be something big...

The beach!

I can visualize it.

The bridesmaids in bathing suits... 20,000 Santa Monica schoolchildren spelling out the word love!

It's a novelty, but is it big enough?

Why not the City Hall?

A police escort of every motorcycle cop in town; sirens screaming, confetti pouring out of buildings, like the Lindbergh reception in New York, only on a big scale.

What's the matter?

Isn't it big enough?

- [JP] And now if any man can show just cause why these two may not be lawfully joined together, let him now speak or else hereafter forever hold his peace.

Do you, Alfred Hinkle, take this woman as your lawful wedded wife?

Will you love, comfort, honor and keep her in sickness and health, as long as you both shall live?

- I will.

- Do you--I beg your pardon.

- Do you, Esther Blodgett, take this man as your lawful wedded husband?

Will you obey, serve, love, honor and keep him in sickness and health, as long as you both shall live?

- I will.

- Place the ring on her finger.

Hurry, please.

Now, by virtues of the power invested in me, as Justice of the Peace of San Bardo Township, County of Los Angeles, I pronounce you man and wife.

(prisoners applaud) - Quiet!

- And now, I must exercise my prerogative of office.

I hope you will be very happy, Mrs. Hinkle.

- Thank you.

- Thank you, sir.

- Oh, Danny!

- Now, if you'll please sign the license... - Oh, oh yeah.

- You know, Mrs. Hinkle, I can't help but believe I've seen you somewhere before.

- Oh, really?

Well, I believe this is the first time I've ever been in San Bardo.

- You know, your face is familiar too, Mr. Hinkle-- - There you are, sir.

Thank you very much.

- Here's your receipt.

- Thank you.

(all bidding farewell) - [Danny] Gee, I think you got by with it.

- [Maine] But it was close!

That JP was just beginning to remember where he'd seen us.

- [Esther] Well anyway, we got away from Libby.

- [Maine] Hello, toots!

- If you would be kind enough to glance between my shoulder blades, Mr. and Mrs. Hinkle, you will find there a knife, buried to the hilt.

On the handle are your initials.

- Jolly good seeing you, Libby!

- [Libby] Hold it, wait!

- Hold him, Danny!

(car door closes) (car accelerates away) - There go a couple of rats I raised from mice.

- Well, they got a right to get married, haven't they?

- They haven't got any right to double cross the public, and they haven't done it yet!

- [Danny] Hey!

- [bailiff] The People vs. Porky Washington, who is charged with violating section 600-- - Young man, you're in contempt of court!

- Operator, get me the Los Angeles Tribune!

- I have a good mind to put you under arrest!

- Wait 'till I make this call.

You wait too.

Tribune, give me the city desk.

Johnny, this is Matt Libby.

I got a flash for you!

Norman Maine and Vicki Lester were married at 2:30 this afternoon-- - Vicki Lester!

Court recessed!

(gavel bangs) (commotion) ♪ (upbeat music) (Maine whistles) ♪ (singing) Oh, give me a horse ♪ A great big horse, ♪ A great big buckaroo, ♪ And let me wahoo, wahoo, WAHOO!

(trailer clatters) (car rumbles) (trailer clatters) Wahoo!

(car rumbles) (gears grind) (gears grind & engine whines) Wahoo.

- Eh, wahoo...

I don't want to sound immodest, but I think I've stripped a gear.

- Well, sit down, won't you, and let's get acquainted.

We'll probably be seeing quite a bit of each other from now on.

- Well...might just as well break the ice now as later.

Now we're old friends.

Say, have I got time for a shower before dinner?

- Plenty, if you can find a shower.

- I never can remember where that thing is.

Is it pull out, or slide under?

- Here, I think I can find it.

Nope, that's the linen closet...here it is.

- Nice work.

- Oh, half the time those things are just luck.

I'll see if I can disinfect this steak.

(handle pumps) - [Maine] Say Esther, there's no soap... - Here.

- [Maine] Thank you.

(handle pumps) [Maine] Oh, and Esther?

- Yes, dear?

- [Maine] I'll need a washcloth.

- How do you fix the cigarettes?

- You know I never smoke underwater.

(kiss smooches) (door closes) Hey what...what do I do to make this thing work?

- Pull that gadget at the top and pray for rain.

- Well, I...I can't reach it!

I can't get my hands up!

- If you've gone in there with your arms down, you'll never get your bath... unless you're a contortionist.

- Yeah, well I'm not a contortionist, and don't throw that up to me now.

You knew it when you married me.

Can you close this door, please?

(door bangs shut) Thank you!

(water gushes) (Maine yelps) (horn honks) (Maine coughs & yelps) (car rumbles softly) - Norman!

Norman, here comes a car!

- You got a...huh?

- Here, quick!

- [Maine] Quick what?

- Quick, go out and stop them and ask for help.

- Oh, I'll catch cold!

- Oh, you'll get warm again.

- They'll recognize me!

- Not if you keep your face down.

Go on, there may not be another car for weeks!

(Maine whistles) (car rumbles) - (stammering) Howdy partner!

- Howdy!

Stuck?

- Yeah, how'd you guess it?

Can you get us some help?

- Well, I reckon not.

You know, it's a long way to town, and we're pretty busy down at the place.

- Well, I've gotta get out of here.

I've got my wife with me.

- [man] Don't she like the country?

- [Maine] No... no--I mean, we're short of food!

- Well there's a lot of game in them woods.

- Yeah well, my wife can't shoot.

- Well, you're sure up against it.

Sorry I can't do anything for you-- - Wait, listen--I'll be frank with you.

I'm Norman Maine.

- Who?

- Norman Maine!

- Well my name's Judd Baker.

Glad to have met you.

Well, so long!

- [Maine] Hey wait a minute--wait a minute!

Listen, you don't... (car rumbles away) - So you're Norman Maine... (car rumbles away) (car rumbles away) ♪ (whimsical music) - I got my prestige to look out for.

I'm supposed to be the best publicity man in the racquet, and they laugh themselves sick when I even try to get a decent mention of Maine.

- Yes, I know how sensitive you are Libby and I don't like to see your feelings hurt.

- Thanks, Boss.

Now, Vicki...there's a dish for free space... but if Maine swam across the Pacific, the papers would keep it a secret.

Welp... the exhibitors don't like him, the critics don't like him, the public don't like him, and I don't like him.

Who likes him?

♪ (serene orchestral music) - Oh but darling, this is almost too much of a surprise.

And there I was in my touching innocence, thinking we were going to live at the beach house.

- Oh, we'll still keep the place at Malibu, but this is special.

This is our castle, which used to be in the air, you know?

Where we'll never use any ugly words like contracts, and pictures, and careers.

When we come in those gates, we'll check the studio outside.

Come on, I got another little surprise for you.

♪ (serene orchestral music) - Oh Norman, it's lovely!

- So are you, lovely.

The whole world's lovely.

- [Libby] Hey, hold it!

That's it.

(camera shutter clicks) [Libby] Caption: "Their honeymoon never ends!"

Alright, let's get some pictures.

Now if the bride will sit here, and the groom stand behind her, we'll have something unique!

Now let's go after something different.

You sit down and she'll stand up.

- Pretty radical, isn't it?

- Yeah, but in a nice way.

[Libby] Okay, that ol' fire!

(camera shutter clicks) Caption: "Their honeymoon begins anew!"

- Ah, the producer!

Caption: "Their honeymoon ceases abruptly."

Hello Oliver, glad to see you!

- Norman, I'm glad you're back.

- Thank you.

- Vicki, how well you're looking!

- Hello, Oliver.

- Am I interrupting?

- Yes, thank you.

- [Libby] Just want a couple more pictures.

- That's enough of both of them... what they're asking for is exclusives of Ms. Lester.

Alone!

- Oh, I see... Well come on Oliver, let's you and me get exclusive.

- See you later, Vicki.

- Oh don't worry, Otto.

My camera smashing days are over.

- Yeah...that ain't your only days that are over.

Oh, hold that Ms. Lester... (camera shutter clicks) Gorgeous!

- Well Oliver...how's the dividend situation?

- Very pleasant.

I think we'll show two million on our next quarter.

(Maine laughs) - Smart move of mine to sell my stock, eh?

Oh well.

When you need money, you need it.

- Well, some people save up for just such an event.

There's bound to be a rainy day occasionally.

- Yeah but as a citizen of California, I've always refused to admit that.

- Yes, I know, but still it does rain.

- Well anyway, you can thank me for some of those dividends of yours.

- [Oliver] Mmm-hmm.

- Well, can't you?

- Oh sure, sure.

- That was a little too quick, Oliver.

What's the matter?

"The Enchanted Hour" was a smash hit, wasn't it?

- [Oliver] Well, it made Vicki a star overnight.

- As it should have.

What about me?

- Oh, let's talk about business at the office, Norman.

Beautiful pool you have here.

Beautiful!

- Well now, let's talk about it here.

Didn't they like me?

- Well, maybe the part wasn't just right.

- That was the best part of the year.

Look, Oliver... Do you think I'm slipping?

- Can you take it?

- Yeah go ahead.

- [Oliver] The tense is wrong.

You're not slipping... you've slipped.

- But my... my fan mail's still big.

- Norman, Norman, fans will write to anybody for a photograph.

It only costs three cents for a stamp, and that makes photographs cheaper than wallpaper.

But every 25 cents they pay for a theater ticket buys them the right to be a critic, and your last few performances, Norman, have not pleased your critics.

- You remember I told you I'd... be ready for the curtains when the time came?

Here it is.

Let's call off the contract, no hard feelings.

- [Oliver] We're not quitting...either of us.

There's no explaining these things.

We've all seen how the public turns.

Maybe we can turn them back.

I've got a swell script lined up for you.

- About Esther... Do you think that I'm going to get in her way?

- [Oliver] Well, as a matter of fact as it happens, there's no part in this story for her.

I'd more or less planned to star her in a picture of her own...with that young Pemberton opposite her.

He's coming along nicely.

- Good for young Pemberton.

Alright, Oliver...we'll make a try at it.

Let's hope it's not too late.

♪ (ominous dramatic music) ♪ (upbeat dramatic music) ♪ (serene orchestral music) - [man] No argument, I'll buy those.

Huh!

The screen's most finished actor (chuckles).

I'll say he's finished.

He keeps 'em away in droves.

♪ (dramatic ominous music) (phone rings) - Hello?

No, no Ms. Lester isn't home just yet.

No, I'm not the butler... but I can take a message just as well as he can.

Honest.

- Ahh, is that you Norman?

Swell!

Listen Norman, this is Artie Carver... Hiya, kid!

Swell.

Say, I hear you're through with Oliver Niles?

Is that on the level?

- Oh please, Artie.

I'm not news anymore!

Forget it.

- Say, what kind of a settlement did you make on your contract?

Give me a figure so I can do a story on it.

- There was no money involved.

We just called it quits.

- Okay, okay, I'll fill in my own figure.

Say, by the way...

I've been trying to get an interview with Vicki for two weeks, but she's always busy.

How about you giving an old pal a break by speaking to her for me?

- Sure, I'll ask her.

- Swell!

So long (chuckles).

♪ (romantic sentimental music) - I didn't mean to be late darling, but Casey wanted me to-- - It's alright.

You're here now.

- What's new today?

- Nothing...haven't been out of the house.

- [Esther] Let's go somewhere tonight.

- [Maine] No, no.

You're tired.

We'll stay in.

- [Esther] I'm not tired, really.

(doors open) - Oh, yes you are.

You've got a hard day ahead of you.

Anyway, I see so little of you, I'd like to have you to myself.

- Oh but it's the servant's night out.

We haven't any-- - Yes, we have.

I fixed a little snack with my own lily white hands.

I'm...I'm learning to cook in my spare time.

- Then I think I'll marry you.

- Oh, I get it... You want to make an honest cook of me.

It comes in on wheels in this joint.

♪ (serene orchestral music) There we are.

How's it look?

- [Esther] Mmmm...wonderful!

- Eh?

That's what I thought.

Now then, don't be formal.

Just pitch in.

♪ (soft music) [Maine] There we are.

♪ (serene orchestral music) - I'm afraid my mouth's not quite big enough.

- I'll...I'll measure it next time and make them to size.

- [Esther] A little hard to lift, too.

- As a matter of fact, I think I'll take those measurements right now.

♪ (soft romantic music) And that's what I wait for...all day.

- And that's why I rush home without even changing my costume.

♪ (soft romantic music) - We're...we're forgetting that we're hungry.

Would you like a sandwich?

- Thank you, I still have a little work on this one.

♪ (soft music) - Well...(mumbles) ♪ (soft music) - Norman, will you unhook my dress?

I can't breathe.

- And all the time I thought it was the kiss that made you breathless.

A lot of hooks...why don't you have a zipper?

- Well, that's a good idea.

- Feel better?

- (exhales) Yes!

♪ (soft romantic music) - Don't look now, but...

I think that guy on your left is in love with you.

- I hope so.

(door buzzer sounds) (door buzzer sounds) - It's the doorbell.

- Is it?

Maybe they'll go away.

- No, no, they never do at a time like this.

Just a minute dear...

I'll be right back.

♪ (soft music) (door opens) - Does Vicki Lester live here?

- Yes.

- I got a package for her.

- I'll sign for it.

- Who are you?

- I'm her husband.

- Oh, sure.

Sign right here, Mr. Lester.

♪ (ominous music) (door closes) ♪ (melancholy music) - It's a package for you.

Oh by the way, I forgot to tell you... they want you for a benefit at the Shrine Auditorium next Wednesday night.

I told them I'd ask you...and-- - Oh darling, I don't want to hear about that now.

- Well you better wait 'till I've finished before I forget them all.

Uh... the Academy dinner secretary phoned... she wants to know if you want a table reserved for you.

Uh...oh yes, Artie Carver called, and asked if I'd use my influence with you to get him an interview.

[Maine] I told him I'd try.

That was all, I think.

- Oh Norman...let's not talk about those things now.

We're forgetting the wonderful food you prepared.

- Oh I'm...not very hungry now.

I think I'll...fix me a little drink, hmm?

♪ (ominous music) - Norman... ♪ (ominous music) ♪ (triumphant orchestral music) (audience applause) - I wish Norman would come.

- Now stop worrying...and think how nice that statue is going to look on your mantle piece.

- Do you suppose anything's happened to him?

- Of course not!

He's just been held up in traffic.

You think about that statuette.

- [host] And now we arrive at the climax of the annual dinner of the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences, the highest award within our power to bestow.

We have already applauded with our hearts as well as our hands, while awards have been given those gentlemen, who during the past year, have rendered distinguished service to the motion picture industry.

We now pay honor to the ladies.. or rather, to one lady.

We offer to her the Academy Award for the finest performance of the past year.

She has already had the world's acclaim, but this is the tribute of her fellow workers, the men and women of this industry.

It is not only my pleasure, but my privilege to present this award to the actress who created the unforgettable Anna in "Dream Without End..." Ms. Vicki Lester!

(audience applauds & cheers) What more can we say, Ms. Lester?

This says it all for us.

(audience applauds) Ladies and gentlemen...when something like this happens to you, and you try to tell how you feel about it, you find that, out of all the words in the world, there are only two that really mean anything... thank you.

All I can do is to say them to you from my heart.

All I can do is to keep on saying them-- - [Maine] HEY!

That's fine!

(clapping obnoxiously) - Oh Mr. Maine, please-- - That's a very pretty speech, my dear.

Very pretty.

You said the right thing.

I wanna be the very first one to congratulate you on that...on that valuable little piece of bric-a-brac.

Now I wanna make a speech.

Gentlemen of the Academy, and fellow suckers!

I got one of those once for a best performance.

They don't mean a thing!

People get 'em every year.

What I want's a special award, something nobody else can get.

I want a statue for the WORST performance of the year!

[Maine] In fact, I want three statues, for the three worst performances of the year, because I've earned them, and every single one of you that saw those last masterpieces of mine knows that I've earned them.

- Libby...start the music.

- What I'm here to find out is: do I get 'em, do do I get 'em?

Now that's a yes or no-- (crack) (audience gasps) ♪ (lively orchestral music) - Come darling, let's go and sit down.

♪ (lively orchestral music) - Come on Norman, sit and rest.

- [man] Glad to see you, Norman.

- [woman] Hello Norman.

♪ (music plays) - [Oliver] Hello, and how are you?

- Hi, Oliver.

- My dear, do let me congratulate you.

[Ms. Regis] You must be terribly proud and happy tonight.

- Thank you.

♪ (music plays) - Somebody give me a drink!

(glass sets down) ♪ (somber music) - Oliver...nice of you to come to my dressing room.

- Vicki, how are you?

- I missed you.

Everyone's missed you!

Have a nice trip?

- Well, a three months' tour of the theater circuit scarcely comes under the head of pleasure, but the way they're screaming for your pictures all over the country... Ms. Lester, if I may talk shop, you are a knockout!

- Thank you.

It's good to hear that.

- [Oliver] You've been crying.

- A little.

- How's Norman?

♪ (melancholy music) - Well, he's trying awfully hard, Oliver.

- Letting Norman leave this studio was the hardest thing I ever did.

There was nothing else I could do.

- I know.

- Has he been... is he alright?

- He's gone to a sanitarium.

He really wants to stop drinking... and I think he could, only... - Well...perhaps if he could start working again, that would be some encouragement.

- Oh, Oliver... Could you do that?

- Yes.

- Oh, thank you...but he mustn't ever know I told you.

- He won't know, and you mustn't worry.

I want you to keep up your good work in this picture.

- I'll try, Oliver.

That's the one thing I can do for you.

♪ (sentimental music) (door closes) - If you'll just sit here Mr. Niles, I'll have Mr. Maine brought down.

- Thank you.

Brought down?

- Hello, Oliver!

Welcome to Liberty Hall.

- Hello, Norman.

- Well...no, no, Mr. Niles isn't slipping me a case of Scotch, Cuddles.

This is just a handshake.

This is Cuddles, Oliver, my social secretary.

We go everywhere together.

- How are you feeling, Norman?

- Fine.

Getting along remarkably well, Cuddles tells me.

He says you oughta see some of the boys (whistles).

(Oliver laughs) Let's sit down.

Cuddles, we...really don't need you... Touching, isn't it?

Can't bear to have me out of his sight.

- Are you comfortable here, Norman?

- Comfortable?

It's positively luxurious.

They even have iron bars in the windows to keep out the draft.

- (laughs) How much longer are you going to be here?

- Oh, well, I'm really cured now.

I'm just...staying on for an extra week or two to get in good shape, you know?

After all, there's no... particular hurry to return to the cameras.

- That's what I wanted to talk to you about.

I've got a script with a fine part for you in it.

- Hey Oliver, that's great.

That's great.

Who...who plays opposite me?

- Well, it is not exactly the lead.

Young Pemberton's doing that... but I tell you frankly, I consider your part better than the lead.

- Oh...I see.

Better than the lead.

- Well of course, it isn't terribly long... but it's one of those parts that makes an impression on you.

They'll be thinking about you all through the picture.

- Mm-hmm...well, the thing is, Oliver, I'm...pretty well set at another studio.

I'm not at liberty at the moment to tell you which one, you know yourself how those things are.

- Of course.

- But it's a big picture.

It's one of the biggest of the year, and the part!

Every actor in Hollywood would give his teeth to play.

- Well that's fine, Norman.

Naturally that will tie you up for awhile, but we won't get to this picture for some time, and perhaps, if you want to consider it for later on-- - I'll tell you Oliver, you'd better not count on me.

See, I've got several pictures lined up after this one, and they're talking to me about England... You know, they're doing some very interesting things over there, you know?

- [Cuddles] Hey... - Well what is it, Cuddles?

Speak right out, we all love you.

- Your dinner!

- Oh!

(chuckles) Yeah, we dine at 5:30 here.

Makes the nights longer.

- Well...goodbye Norman.

I'm glad to see you're getting along so well.

- Be out in no time.

- I'll have to introduce myself all over to a lot of people... they won't know me when I'm not drinking.

- Goodbye.

- Goodbye Norman.

- Thanks for dropping in.

(door closes) - Well, Cuddles... Alone at last, eh?

(bugle derby call) (indistinct chatter) (bugle derby call) (footsteps scrambling) - Hello Bert, Sam!

How are you, Marion?

- Oh, hello.

- Hello.

- Hello, Normie.

- Glad to see you.

- How I hate to run into these has beens... they give me the creeps.

- Me too.

- He was good while he had it... and he had it quite awhile.

- Hello.

- Hello, Mr. Maine.

I haven't seen you in a long time.

- Oh, I've been resting.

Ginger ale, please.

- Ginger ale and what?

- Ginger ale and... ginger ale.

- A new leaf?

- A whole new book!

Thank you.

- Scotch, straight.

- Hello, Libby!

- Why, it's Mr. America of yesteryear.

Do they let you wander about now without a keeper?

- Oh, sure, I'm a trusty now.

Didn't expect to find you at Santa Anita.

What do they do with the actors while you're away?

- Oh, they cut 'em into slices and fry 'em with eggs.

I suppose you'll be here all the time, now that you've retired from the hurly burly of the silver screen.

- Well...living down in Malibu now, pretty lonesome with...Esther away working all day.

- Oh, I wouldn't squawk about that if I were you.

It's nice to have somebody in the family making a living.

- Oh, now wait a minute Libby...

I don't wanna forget that we're friends.

- Friends, my eye!

Say listen, I got you out of jams because I had to.

It was my job, not because I was your friend.

I don't like you and I never have liked you.

Nothing made me happier than to see all those cute little pranks of yours finally catch up with you and land you on your celebrated face!

- Pretty work, Libby...

Always wait till they're down, then kick 'em.

- I don't feel sorry for you.

You fixed yourself nice and comfortable.

You can live off your wife now.

She'll buy your drinks and put up with you even though nobody else will.

(smack) (pow) (woman gasps) (excited chatter) (commotion) - C'mon, drunk-- - Hey, wait a minute, wait a minute!

- Come on, outside for you, wise guy!

- I'm Norman Maine!

- Well that's not my fault.

- Oh, don't bother to toss him out.

He's harmless.

- Alright Mr. Libby, if you say so.

- Sure, let him go.

What can he do?

He can't fight any better than he can act.

- [woman] It's Norman Maine!

- [man] He's drunk again!

(excited chatter) - Give me a scotch...double.

Leave the bottle here.

(indistinct chatter) - Vicki, you'll be ill. Why don't you try to get a little sleep?

- But he's been gone four days.

Four days, and not a word!

(phone rings) (footsteps scrambling) Oliver, I can't...

I just can't... - Hello?

No, this is Oliver Niles speaking.

What?

Where?

Thank you.

(phone clatters down) - What is it?

- Nothing, nothing-- - Oliver, tell me!

- He's in the night court.

He's been arrested on a drunk charge.

Now he's alright, he isn't hurt.

I'm going right down and getting him out.

- I'm going with you-- - Vicki, it isn't any place for you, and if it gets in the papers-- - What do I care about the papers!

I'm going with you.

(gavel bangs) - [bailiff] Division 30, Municipal Court, county of Los Angeles, now in session.

The honorable Judge Jay Barris, presiding.

Be seated, please.

- Were you able to do anything?

- The judge wouldn't even see me.

- [bailiff] Ready, Your Honor.

- I want to advise you that you're entitled to be represented by council, to be confronted by the witnesses that may testify against you, to compel witnesses to attend on your behalf to a public and speedy trial by the court or by a jury, and the right to be admitted to bail.

Call the first file.

- [bailiff] Gregory, Railes, Maine, Rodriguez, Strup.

Come on boys, step in here.

[bailiff] Go ahead, move along.

- [judge] William Gregory.

(Gregory mumbles) - Plain drunk, picked up at 5th in town, asleep in the gutter.

14 similar offenses in the past six months.

- Still at it, Gregory?

How do you plead?

- Uh, I don't feel so good... - I didn't ask you how you feel.

I asked you how you plead.

- Guilty, I guess.

- [judge] When did you get out the last time?

- (mumbles) The day before Christmas.

- Well I'm sorry, you'll have to miss New Years, but you'll be out in time for Washington's birthday.

60 days.

Milton Railes.

- [counsil] Plain drunk, picked up on Brooklyn Avenue.

Given treatment at receiving hospital, then removed to jail.

- How old are you, Railes?

- 17, sir.

- [judge] Did you take a good look at those men in the cell with you last night?

- Yes, sir.

- [judge] And have you taken a good look at yourself this morning?

- Uh, no sir.

- I suggest that you do.

Five dollars and two days.

Sentence suspended.

- Oh Judge, I... - Alfred Hinkle...more commonly known as Norman Maine.

- [council] Drunk and disorderly, cracked car into tree at Sunset and Coronado.

Evidently been drinking for days.

Resisted arrest and injured one of the arresting officers.

- How do you plead?

- Guilty.

- You're Norman Maine the actor, aren't you?

You've come pretty low, haven't you?

There isn't a man here who's the advantages you've had, and look what you've done with them.

[judge] You're nothing but an irresponsible drunk, driving about the streets with the power to inflict death or injury on innocent people.

I think we'd better deny you that power for awhile.

90 days in city jail.

- Please wait!

I'm his wife.

- Yes, I recognize you, Ms. Lester.

- Please, Judge...

I promise you this won't happen again.

I'll be responsible for him... if you just won't send him there.

- Do you realize that this man, when drunk, is obviously a menace to public safety?

[judge] And do you realize too, Ms. Lester, the responsibility you'll be assuming to this court, and to the Commonwealth?

- I do.

- Sentence suspended.

Prisoner remanded to custody of wife.

- Thank you!

- You can get him at the jail in 20 minutes.

- [judge] Jose Rodriguez.

- [council] Plain drunk, picked up at First and Main.

Second offense.

- [judge] How do you plead?

- I think I'm guilty, Your Honor.

- [judge] 60 days.

(door opens) ♪ (somber music) - I'm...I'm so tired, Esther.

- [reporter] Hold it Mr. Maine!

For a picture.

- Oh no, please--!

- What about a statement for the press?

- Oh no, please!

♪ (dramatic ominous music) - He's still asleep.

He's been asleep nearly all day.

- [Oliver] It's the best thing for him.

- Oh, it's awful to see this happen to someone you love... and know in your heart that it can't get any better.

[Esther] I already know that all I can do now is stay with him and try to help him.

- [Oliver] So will I... and the three of us will take care of him.

- [Esther] You're very fond of him, aren't you Oliver?

- [Oliver] I'm very fond of both of you.

- Then I know you'll understand what I have to tell you... and after what happened last night, I think you already know what it is.

I can't do any more pictures.

I'm going away for good with Norman.

- [Oliver] You can't do that, Vicki!

You're at the very peak of your success, and you've worked so hard to achieve it.

- That's what's been wrong, when I've thought it all out.

Maybe if I hadn't been away from him so much, last night and what went before it wouldn't have happened.

Oh, I know it's too late to think about that now, but... it may not be too late to go away with him and start over somewhere.

- [Oliver] It's your life you're giving up, Vicki.

- [Esther] So I can try to give Norman back his.

Can you honestly tell me I'm wrong to do it?

- No, Vicki...I can't honestly tell you that.

♪ (sentimental music) - Then they'll be no more..."Vicki Lester."

♪ (sentimental music) - [Oliver] Come on, walk to the door with me.

♪ (sentimental music) Goodbye Vicki Lester.

You were a grand girl.

Good luck, Mrs. Norman Maine.

- Goodbye.

(door closes) ♪ (sentimental music) (Esther sobs) ♪ (sentimental music) ♪ (sentimental music) - Darling... this is Maine coming in to apologize again.

- I'm sorry, dear... it isn't you.

- What other troubles have you got?

- Oh, none.

I was just, playing a scene with myself.

- Now look...I'm just coming out of the jitters and you're just going into them!

This is a swell household.

- Isn't it?

- I'll tell you what we'll do.

I 'll promise to brace up... if you'll go on the wagon.

(Esther laughs) - I guess I have been drinking too much.

- Know what I'm gonna do?

I'm going to be an athlete.

- You mean with great big muscles and everything?

- Well, roughly speaking.

- Gonna...join the YMCA?

- No, it costs too much.

I'm going wading out in our front yard.

- Now?

- Sure.

- Would you like me to go with you?

- Sure, if you'd like to.

- Normie, I don't think I will.

It might spoil this beautiful, natural wave.

- Yeah, I guess that's right... but darling, look, uh, could you have a hot toddy--um...

I mean some hot soup for me when I come back?

- Some hot soup.

- Yeah, and I'll make some of those nice sandwiches.

- Normie, do you have to?

(Norman and Esther laugh) ♪ (dramatic sentimental music) - Go on, darling.

- [Esther] Now don't stay in too long.

♪ (sentimental music) - Hey!

Do you mind if I take just...one more look?

♪ (sentimental music) ♪ (dramatic sentimental music) ♪ (carnival music plays) - First drink of water he had in 20 years, and then he had to get it by accident.

(bartender laughs) ♪ (carnival music plays) Pardon...how do you wire a congratulations to the Pacific Ocean?

(bartender laughs loudly) ♪ (somber organ music) (commotion) - [girl] There she is now!

- [girl] Oh, you can't see her face!

(commotion) - [woman] Hello, Vicki!

♪ (somber organ music) (commotion) - [Danny] Get away, can't you?

- [woman] Come on Vicki, let's see your face.

- Vicki, will you sign my book for me?

Write Mrs. Norman Maine.

- [man] Don't you care, Vicki.

You'll get over it.

(commotion) - Stand back, can't you?

(commotion) - Don't you cry, dearie.

He wasn't so much.

(Esther screams and sobs) ♪ (melancholy music) - Do you mind if I take just...one more look?

♪ (melancholy music) - Here are the paychecks for the servants, Graves.

You'll find a very nice bonus in each one.

Ms. Lester asked me to thank you for your kindness and service.

- If there's anything I can do for little lady, I shall be glad to do it.

- She would be appreciate your attending to the closing of the Beverly Hills house.

- [Granny] Put down those trunks!

Put it down, I say!

Well?

Where is she?

- [assistant] In the bedroom.

Who are you?

- Oh, I'm her grandmother!

Get out of the way!

♪ (dramatic sentimental music) - Granny!

- Esther!

- Granny, darling!

Oh I'm so glad to see you.

What made you come?

- Oh, I know when I'm needed.

Now get out of here!

Go on, get out of here!

All of you!

I want to talk to my granddaughter alone.

I came just as quickly as I could.

- But I'm going home.

I sent you a wire yesterday.

(Granny humphs) ♪ (dramatic whimsical music) - Sit down.

Is it true that you're going to quit the movies?

- I never want to hear them again.

♪ (sentimental music) - What are you running away from, little girl?

- I'm not running away... it's just that I can't go on.

My heart isn't in it anymore.

- Once I told you if you get what you want, you have to give your heart in exchange... and you said you were willing.

You remember?

- I remember.

- Well, it seems to me that you've gotten more than you bargained for... more fame, more success, even more personal happiness.

Maybe more unhappiness, but you did make a bargain...and now you're whining over it.

I don't think I'd feel so very proud of myself if I were you, Esther.

- I'm not, Granny.

My mind's made up.

- Well, then I'm sorry I gave you the money to come out here if you just wasted it-- - Oh, but Granny!

- I was proud of you, Esther.

I was proud to be the grandmother of Vicki Lester.

It gave me something to live for.

Now, I haven't anything.

- I know...

I want to be strong, but, I can't go on, I can't... - You must.

Tragedy is the test of courage.

If you commit to bravery, it will leave you bigger than it found you.

If not, then you'll have to live all your live as a coward, because no matter where you may run, you can never run away from yourself.

I never knew Norman Maine.

He wrote me a very sweet letter when you were married.

He said you told him how much I meant to you, and I know just how much you must have meant to him.

You know Esther, I can't believe that wherever he is, he could be very happy knowing that his death broke the spirit of the little girl he praised me so highly for raising, and I can't believe that he can be very proud knowing that all his great love did for you was to make you a quitter.

- The car is ready, Ms. Lester.

We'll have to go now to make the train.

♪ (dramatic sentimental music) - Put the car back in the garage.

♪ (dramatic sentimental music) Oh, Granny!

♪ (dramatic sentimental music) (traffic rumbling) - [announcer] The entire picture industry has come to the Chinese Theater for this opening tonight.

It has come to pay tribute to a great star on her long awaited return to the screen in what has been called her greatest performance.

It has come to pay tribute to the girl herself, the girl who has won the heart of Hollywood, the girl who has won the heart of the world, Ms. Vicki Lester...and if I'm not mistaken, Ms. Lester's car has just driven up.

[announcer] Yes, it is she!

(applause) - I hope this doesn't scare you too much.

- I scare very slowly, young man.

- [photographer] Big smile, folks.

Please.

(indistinct chatter) - They'll have your mug...I mean your face, plastered across half the papers in the country tomorrow.

- Hmm.

How do I look?

- Oh, you look swell.

- You're a liar, but I like you.

- And here's Ms. Lester's grandmother.

[announcer] Won't you say a few words for the radio audience, please?

- Say something, Lettie.

- You know, we've got a thing like that back home, where they all listen in on but we call it a party line.

(men laugh) - [announcer] Won't you say something, please?

They're listening.

- Maybe some of you people listening in dream about coming to Hollywood.

Maybe some of you get pretty discouraged.

Well, when you do, you just think about me.

It took me over 70... 60 years to get here, but here I am, and here I mean to stay.

(men laugh) (audience applause) - [announcer] Thank you very much.

(audience applause) ♪ (dramatic ominous music) - [announcer] Ms. Lester?

♪ (ominous music) This microphone is on an international hookup.

Throughout the world, your fans are hoping that you'll say a few words to them.

♪ (sentimental music) - Hello everybody...

This is Mrs. Norman Maine!

(audience applause) ♪ (sentimental music) ♪ (dramatic orchestral music)