ACT 1
Moscow 1986
Mischa, my little professor!
Hi, grandma.
How was school?
- Good.
Good, good.
Eight times eight is?
- Eight?
No.
Eighty-eight?
- No!
Eight hundred Eighty-eight?
- No!
Anatoly! Anatoly!
Anatoly, why won't you answer me?
Hello Mischa!
- Hello dad.
Impossible question!
-Why is it such an impossible question?
What? Why is everything so
impossible these days?
Wrong time.
But why can't I come with you?
That's impossible, and you know it.
Yeah, what do I know? Nothing!
How should I know what
youre doing on your trips?
My trips?
But Ive never been to the West!
I play chess!
Yeah, and what else?
Nothing else.
- really?
I never get to be where you are.
I dont have fun.
A chess tournament isnt
very fun at all.
Yes, but why do you go, then?
- Its a championship!
A world championship. You know
damn well that theyll never let you come.
Not you, not Misha, nor your mother,
or her mother, or God knows who.
Why dont you care about me
and my family?
I do!
- You don't!
Svetlana....?
- Still I kiss you.
Youre welcome!
A game of chess is strategy.
Each square hides something big.
In laughter and play,
in sorrow and betrayal,..
youll learn from the mistakes
youve made.
How did it happen, when chess was
shaped long ago in India?
Two princes were feuding,
so the story goes,
about the countrys sacred seal.
And their father and mother,
they wailed and cried
like all we parents do.
they pleaded: Now stop before someone
dies, but still a brother fell.
What have you done?
His mother was beside herself.
Alas, your crime is grave"
"No, your father can never
forgive you..
Father, try to understand,
he wanted to kill me.
No, you have to leave.
You were my son,
but I repudiate you.
He left..
After some time,
he came back and counterattacked
with the help of small soldiers
painted in lacquer.
placed on a chequered table,
so that he could prove
his brothers cruel plan.
Thats how he created chess.
God be with you.
-Goodbye, Tolya.
Goodbye, Anna Petrovna!
Youll win the game, right, dad??
- Give me a kiss!
(Darling.)
(Hey, you)?
Where is my dream?
What is daring?
Did I take my chance?
Do I have the talent?
Once there was a dream
Whats left is a question.
Desire turned into demands,
love into torture.
People are replaced,
oh, so carefully..
All that was empty
becomes something important.
I resist.
but they seduce me
Saying Comrade
although they destroy me.
I am where I wanted to be
and who I wanted to be
and doing what I said;
I know I do it well.
Was this what I wanted to have?
Running for my life
and never looking back
and never being safe
I hear behind my back:
That bastard, well get him!
When my wheel of fortune is reversed,
where can I go?
Do I go back?
Sure, Im pleased.
Who can complain?
Everything has gone well,
a real fairytale.
Im forced to hide
moet ik mijzelf veroordelen
love and hate
Im forced to forget.
I am where I wanted to be
and who I wanted to be
and doing what I said;
I know I do it well.
Was this what I wanted to have?
Running for my life
and never looking back
and never being safe
I hear behind my back:
That bastard, well get him!
When my wheel of fortune is reversed,
where can I go?
Do I go back?
Our Partys dear General Secretary
sends his regards. Yuri!
At the meeting at the Ministry of Athletics
yesterday it was decided that..
Thank you!
Come and board now the trains
leaving for Merano of Fairytales.
Merano of Love
Bacchus, he offers wine.
Breathe in and fall
into twilight poetry
feel like Scheherazade and Aladdin
Buy yourself a sweet little friend
of delicate porcelain
Come here and enjoy
the life in Merano, Merano!
To town!
Live in the charming atmosphere.
Idyllic!
Our health spa is medically proven,
you get food and diet here..
By sun and wind Merano was blessed,
Merano, Merano
by Pan and Venus and Apollos light
Divine!
Taste the drinks of the Alps,
our sparkling water.
the intoxication of the blushing grapes.
Get spellbound by life in milling alleys
among old farms and houses
The spring burst out in a sight of joy!
And the thrush sings with
the larch in the sky!
Come, tag along on our footpath
in sunny Merano,
flourishing Merano,
making your body healthy!
Our healthy baths, our clear air,
our proud chess union.
Come to our laid table
for a short second.
Once in a while our Lords hand
wants to bless our Merano
The Rose of the Alps, Merano,
she suddenly prepares herself.
And is ready to praise the aristocracy,
the press and nobles watch
the ceremony.
The city is filled by music.
What a noise!
What a party!
What a beautiful sight.
as they celebrate the big star.
Now the mobs sporting taste.
The whole damn village
have they suddenly got
chess on their minds?
Forget it! They just want to see
how I slowly slaughter the cow.
Its East-West with an
unmistakable reek of...
Corruption!
What a height! What a depth!
Aristotle...
would blush with envy.
You got taste, you got style..
and a unique finesse.
and the ability to humiliate.
But look! Weve accompanied
by a rarely-seen dignity!.
Yes but, how nice,
what a fitting garment...
..for when youre going to the loo.
Hes a bit tired from the flight.
His modesty isnt really his strength.
The way hes behaving!
We apologize
and will of course compensate
you for the fabric!
Come, tag along on our footpath
in sunny Merano,
flourishing Merano,
making your body healthy!
Our healthy baths, our clear air,
our proud chess union.
Come to our laid table
for a short second.
Once in a while our Lords hand
wants to bless our Merano
The Rose of the Alps, Merano,
she suddenly prepares herself.
And is ready to praise the aristocracy,
the press and nobles watch
the ceremony.
The city is filled by music.
Our own wine
and chess game.
What a hotel! Everything has
a price in our paradise,
everything has a taste of success!
Happy and blissful,
let off some steam,
and turn the tap!.
Go on the merry-go-round!
You should be sensual
tonight
What a clown. Hes mad.
Trust me, Anatoly,
hell end up in an asylum.
The problem is that it isnt possible
to analyze his technique.
Yes, you cant predict his next move.
In addition to that, hes an asshole.
A completely brilliant asshole.
Hes a spoiled aristocrat.
Yes, a man who has lost his senses.
Hes afraid.
Hes a shadow of his former self,
so your task will be easy.
Bullshit! Do you always
believe what you hear?
Cheap propaganda.
My friend, take it easy,
we trust you.
You know what we ask of you.
You ask that I accept the lies
you and the Party have spread
about the man
who made chess into an art
and created a new theory.
If I had his genius.
Dont get me wrong,
we know his story,
but how are his tactics?
Everyone knows
that someone will win,
and someone will die..
What empty rhetoric.
Sasha, I will win.
The responsibility lies on me.
You think thats enough?
The whole world is watching,
and it concerns our people.
Youre not alone.
Oh, stop preaching the Partys agenda.
If I were to lose, then, dear Comrade,.
..Im the one who gets the blame.
Tomorrow, everything is at stake.
Then nothing must go wrong.
You embarrass your only friend,
the only friend that you have left.
So Ill humiliated.
Treated like shit.
Ive put up with this for eight years,
now it is enough!
But theyre Communists!
They should be able to take a joke.
Don't you always criticize them?
Yes, but there is a time
for everything!
Ha! You, who always talked
about the truth.
Yes, but there is a time
for everything!
Fall of 56, Hungary is rising.
Fall of 56, Hungary is rising.
You, who have always supported
every attack against the Reds.
The ones who unapologetically..
..coldheartedly crushed your childhood.
Do you think the oppression
has lessened in 30 years?
Fall of 56, Hungary is taking up arms.
Fall of 56, Hungary is burning
It was a quarter past seven
the evening of the fourth of November.
Daddy poured cabbage soup on my plate.
Suddenly we all heard
a knock on the door.
Russians go home!
Russians go home!
Russians go home!
Russians go home!
Russians go home!
We have waited so long
That finally would come
The song of freedom
Sounding towards the sky
We have waited so long.
That finally would come
The song of freedom
Sounding towards the sky
They think of chess as a war,
the coldest player wins.
If you show youre weak,
youll be an easy target.
Think of your father,
Think of your father,
stand up for your rights.
And youre supposed
to preach to me?
My father would have laughed,
just like I do..
Youve never seen who I am.
Whats going on around me?
Now everythings falling apart.
Can anyone explain
whats happened?
The affection that I felt
is no longer there
due to all the bridges
that weve burnt.
My childhood sorrow has returned.
Are there any doors left ajar?
And when I want to defend
the mistakes that hes made
I dont believe his motives.
We compromise with difficulty
and life goes by so fast.
Our bitter fights are suffocating me,
but will I dare to say farewell
Everyones just playing
their games,
the one who follow rules is wrong.
Leave no doors ajar.
Everyone is the architect
of their own faith,
the one whos too stupid
gets stepped on.
Leave no doors ajar.
An indescribable longing
has awoken in my body,
a dream I want to hold on to.
Im looking for love,
but without faith and hope.
The only riches that I have
are a thousand questions
without answer.
Dont look back when you leave,
take the small pleasures you get.
Leave no doors ajar.
If you want an opportunity,
take it quickly.
Never regret what youve done.
Leave no doors ajar.
Never start thinking well
about anyone.
Always doubt the promises
youre given.
Leave no doors ajar.
Everyones just playing
their games.
The one who follows rules
is wrong.
Leave no doors ajar.
Never tell...who you are
Better to receive than to give.
Never waste a minute.
Always make fast decisions.
Never get help for a friend,
he can always fool you later.
Leave no doors ajar.
Dont look back
when you leave,
take the small pleasures
you get.
Leave no doors ajar.
Im the appointed referee
silence is consent.
speaking is silver silence is gold
The one who decides, that is me.
I want to underline, first and last
touch me who dares
I cant tolerate a tournament
that revolves around politique.
I want to see chess!
Noble battle!
Without intrigues or
crossing the line
A game permeated by esprit
inspired by learning and fantasy.
I want to see chess!
as a gesture!
of peace and friendship
between East and West.
A game that defies
the tyranny of the times
and defeats stupidity
and barbarity.
As representative for
the referees
we see the experienced
Jean Jacques van Boren
The Grandmaster from
the Soviet Union
competes against
the American champion..
for the throne.
You have to start sometime.
I want discipline
But Ill overlook
the occasional error
There is no rose without a thorn.
My ambition is to judge impartially
I have the final say.
And we compete in a spirit
thats sound and healthy.
nothing ventured, nothing gained!
I want to see chess!
Noble battle!
Without intrigues
or crossing the line.
A game permeated by esprit.
Inspired by learning and fantasy.
I want to see chess
als een gebaar
of peace and friendhip
between East and West.
A game that defies
the tyranny of the times
and defeats stupidity
and barbarity.
As representative for the..
referees.
We see the experienced
Jan Jacques van Boren.
The Grandmaster from
the Soviet Union
competes against the
American champion
for the throne.
A tragic incident, what
do we have here
A cowardly and cheeky
demonstration
With all due respect, an openly
nave and crude provocation
Florenc: Provocation!
Im filling a sharp protest
against their polemic
We should be talking
about chess and not politics
And preferably in a different tone
But its true.
restraint and control
are vital in this game.
We deeply regret if you
think we have done wrong
and hope that youll do the same
Yes, you want to please
with your cunning speech
Whats his reason
to flare up and cause a scandal
What right do you have
to be so brutal.
If hed seen your attitude
He had no choice.
In the old days there was a
philosophical pastime that once was.
A model for virtue and
highest ambition
That is now getting turned into
a battlefield of Cold War rhetoric.
An occupied zone.
What a true humanitarian!
The toads fall out of your mouth!
Do you ever think Ive forgotten
the terror when dad got taken?
Can you deny that you have
his blood on your hands?
God, a dream and a memory
stirs in my mind
And she has the courage I miss
My hope suddenly awakes.
Can you understand
the anger and the pressure
I feel when I meet them?
he bitterness, we shouldnt
even talk about.
Who knows what they
can come up with?
So much noise and shouting
What does it help to constantly
discuss right and wrong
We wish for a fair and noble game
representative of all championships
F: If you want battle
M: Forget hate
F: Between east and west
M: we wish you well
F: How will we have time to select
M: Put down your weapons
F: The best player
M: Calm yourself!
Yes, I agree.
If my dream comes true
I'll let you know
if it was you
who became my superior.
In the old days there
was a philosofical pastime
A model for virtue
and highest ambition
That were now seeing
turned into
a battlefield of Cold War's rhetoric
an occupied zone.
Do you want this power?
I administer a warning
to the American team!
If Trumper doesnt report
to me within 24 hours,
personally or by representative,
I declare this championship over.
For the good listener
Salute!
Can I?
Can I sit?
Oh, no, I was just leaving.
Me too.
In old days, I used to be miserable
at seeming ridiculous.
Not seeming, but being.
I have always been ridiculous,
from the hour I was born,
I know that. Perhaps I knew from the time I
was seven years old that I was ridiculous.
went to school, I studied at university,
and the more I learned,
the more I realized
that I was ridiculous.
It was as if science existed only
to prove and make evident
to me that I was ridiculous.
There was no person on Earth
who knew better that I was ridiculous..
than I did.
Chekhov?
Dostojevsky.
Your father was arrested.
Yes.
Did you ever see him again?
No.
It was after the incidents in Hungary
that we found out what really happened.
I was twelve years old.
My father taught mathematics
at the University of Leningrad
One of his colleagues was Hungarian,
a professor in economics.
One day he came into the dining hall,
white as a sheet,
and collapsed in the queue of students
waiting to be served
He pulled two shelves with glasses
and china with him in the fall.
My father helped him to another room
where he got to lie down and rest
and then he told his story.
Our invasion of Budapest,
thousands of dead, among them
his sister and his mother.
It took the poor man four years
to pay his debt
for the broken glasses
and for the ruined china.
You see..
the professors story
links us together.
The guilt I carry
is an eerie voice
among all acclamations.
How long have you known
Freddie Trumper?
Eight years.
Eight happy years?
Thats my business.
-Yes. Yes, of course.
Forgive me, I dont know
what came over me.
I sincerely apologize.
I wish you a good night. Good night.
Do you think I let him treat me
however he likes?
Not me.
That happens to other women.
I have my defense,
that doesnt happen to me.
Not me.
Who has lived among lionesses,
friends that I have
who know how to defend themselves.
Has he ruined me?
How did that happen?
Im the strong one.
Things always turns out
the way I want
and he, if anyone
should be called weak
its him and not me.
The upper hand,
thats what he thinks
he gives himself
when he summons
my childhood fears again.
Defeat:
my dad when he saw himself
pale and grave,
finally beaten.
To see ones husband and partner
sink in the mud
is painful, I swear,
its not a beautiful sight.
But the one who makes
a bad move
is him and not me.
Everything is over,
yet life doesnt stop.
Somewhere out there,
my destiny is written
Tomorrow:
youll soon teach me to forget.
If not, then take your sun
and go somewhere else.
Great satisfaction,
a vessel to empty.
Get a violin and play
for dancing.
Im the shyest
and now Im standing here
completely open before you.
My legs barely carry me.
But you know, if anyone
can be called weak
then its him and not me.
It is him
and not me.
My name is Florence Regina Vaszi.
and I want a kiss. Pretty please
My name is Anatoly
Come, quickly follow me.
Come, come!
Did you see where they disappeared?
Yes, where is Yuri?
What way did they take?
Through the kitchen? Yes, then?
Where is Yuri?
How long?
Which stairway? The north
or the south stairs, idiot!
But where are we going?
-I have to get to a telephone.
But what has happened?
Look at me!
Remember what I look like now.
Because I wont be me anymore.
A door has opened! A way out!
Dostojevski?
- No, reality.
Molokov.
Yes, its a different situation now.
No, no. Not necessarily.
Well prepare for a family reunion.
Yes, you have to act immediately.
Ill take responsibility.
Sasha. The police district
office is by the railroad.
Yes, they are the only ones who can receive
people seeking asylum at this hour.
Where is Yuri?
Make sure to be there in
two minutes, then report to me.
Embassy? No, no. Theres no
embassy here.
There has to be a foreign delegation
somewhere. An embassy.
No, theres no embassy here.
The United States of Americ.
Now lets see.
Here. Development and exchange,
trade consulate, open Tuesdays.
-Yes, today is Friday.
Oh, thats my usual luck.
Ill call anyway.
Now lets see. 6, 1, 3, 5
Are you at the railroad?
What kind of establishment is it?
Yes, but is it open?
La Gundo, Bundesstat, Gargazone?
Yes, but in Merano?
There must be a police station
in Merano thats open! Where is Yuri?
Isnt there a superior
officer in charge here?
Not tonight.
- But where is he then?
Due to the festivities and the World Chess
Championship he had to
Call him!
- Ha!
Ha! Thats impossible.
I cant disturb him in the middle of
Call !
I don't know where he is.
Where is he?
- At dinner.
With whom?
- I have no idea.
With whem?
Are they on their way?
The son as well? Good!
Yes, ladies and gentlemen! Oops!
The Police Chief almost intervenes!
Therefore I would like
to introduce my dear wife Margery
and our common opinion that chess,
at an elite level..
.. is an American matter!
And if you allow me,
Jean Jacques van Boren,
I would like to raise
a toast to the Free World!
And by the way Margery, isnt
Freddie Trumper from Pennsylvania?
Oh, how fabulous! We have family there.
Completely devoted golfers.
Let the best man win.
Cheers, everyone! Cheers!
You have to let us in!
Let me through!
My name is Anatoly
Viktorovitch Sergievsky.
Yes! But what are you doing here?
Im seeking political asylum.
Mr. Sergievsky, why are you
seeking political asylum?
Are you trying to influence the game
by seeking political asylum?
I cant tolerate a tournament that
revolves around politique.
No, no, no, no, no!
I want to see chess as a gesture
of peace and friendship
between East and West!
Can we get any kind of comment?
What have I got myself into?
I am such a big fool.
They must wonder what
he is doing with me?
She looks a bit insecure.
Shes cute, shes smiling.
She has them all eating
out of her hand.
Thats what you might call timing,
I was checkmated in one move.
A Hungarian princess
on the loose.
I hear her contagious laughter.
Shes so wise.
She seems to take it
with a sense of humor,
I wonder if we
..probably have to go.
We have a meeting,
dont we?
Knew what?
Im sorry. I cant hear anything.
Oh! If this could end!
I dont want to stay,
not be a part of this.
Hes on his own!
Oh, now I see
how beautiful she is.
What if my Russian friend
wants something more
and thinks that I want the same
if I dont say stop?
Oh, God! Dont leave
any doors ajar!
No, sorry, but we have to go.
From now on Im my own master
I no longer represent my country.
Ci vediamo, Auf Wiedersehen.
Goodbye, thank you.
This is a new political scandal.
A sensation, the world marvels.
Its a scoop and everyone
wants to be first.
What can happen tomorrow?
You dont know and I dont know.
No one can see whats hidden.
Even if you look out from the
highest mountain in the world.
What have I got myself into?
How can I be such a fool?
Dear colleague, I put up
a severe protest.
So Ive got your approval?
Thats lucky.
Luck?
I envy you.
No one thinks like you.
You make me weak,
you should be my enemy.
One who is polished and hard
and sharp like a sword.
Im blaming it all on you
and the strange wonder
has occurred
that Ive suddenly got my life back.
Now Im standing here
isnt there anything
that can stop me
from sharing a moment
on the mountain with you.
This is a new political scandal.
A sensation, the world marvels.
Its a scoop and everyone
wants to be first.
One mediocrity found another.
What a picture.
How sweet.
Believe me, he will grow
tired soon, too.
I did pretty quickly.
Where is she now?
What will I do?
Is it true? Is this what
Ive done? I think it is.
How could it happen?
What she said yesterday
was the truth:
she's my only friend.
I remember my father.
I remember his laughter.
His old harmonica
and his thick, ticklish moustache.
They always kissed,
him and my mother.
And then one day
he disappeared.
We went far away.
My mother she cried and cried.
You see,
of my fathers history
I know nothing now.
The land I was taken from
I dont remember anymore.
But tell me, what do you feel?
I havent thought about it.
Do that.
Holy Mother of God,
make me humble when I before
your light-encased picture kneel.
I dont ask for salvation,
I dont ask for victory,
I dont ask for my soul,
the dry desert..
that wanders the world
without a home.
Let the ruler of darkness
draw his sword,
threating and wrathful.
He perishes,
but in the land of my heart
peace will prevail.
She is everlasting,
since our Earth was created.
Before blood was shed,
before flags flew,
she sang her song.
And I still love her
in spite of war,
poverty and despair.
She brings comfort,
she is my support.
And how do I leave her?
My answer:
I cross borders,
but Im still here.
How can I break
such ties?
All the kingdoms in the world
are built on shifting sand.
There are no borders
in the land of my heart.
Soviet champion seeks asylum!
Earthquake in chessworld
How chess was scandalized
Act 2
How nice of you to stop by
because Ive started to wonder a bit.
But how lucky:
Here one can read everything
about your horrible deceit,
as I should have suspected
- Wait!
Youre judging me?
Of course you take that liberty
After everything
youve done to me.
Youre selling yourself,
poisoning my life!
The way you prostitute yourself.
You think you know how I think
and feel, but look at yourself
You walk around in some kind
of dream world and know nothing,
about how the world around
you actually looks.
Ha! So you want to break up?
Once I thought that the road
was clear,
that you were a part of my life.
I was yours.
Now youre just a pain for me.
- And Im grateful for that,
believe me! Youll regret every
clich youve said!
Can you speak louder?
Im not a child,
I know what Im doing.
Im not a child,
I know what Im doing.
Call home to your mother!
So you want to ruin your life with that man
who only can offer you bread and water
in a small, chilly one-room apartment
in a suburb somewhere in Moscow.
Im sure thatll be fucking great!
I learned the art of survival
when I was seven.
I was my only friend,
then was the same as now.
And when I created my dream world,
in my room, voices
were heard from downstairs
full of hatred and ridicule.
My mothers nagging,
my fathers arrogance.
As if I didnt exist.
Who sees a child who has ambitions
when he seems stupid and mute?
When his parents see a stranger,
uninteresting and stupid.
Who sees a child who shuts
himself away,
who gets sick of the turmoil outside,
who knows hes just in the way
who never asks for anything
for himself?
Because everything he does
is wrong.
When I was ten my father fled
without a word to us
who were left behind.
He clearly showed that I
wasnt good enough.
I was a wimp and probably gay.
I thought his departure
would bring
my mother and I closer together.
But she had a call
the very same evening.
Then she became
every mans property.
Yeah, her bed was never empty.
I closed the door and
closed my eyes,
but I heard the same
old sounds again.
I took the broad, easy
path without feeling any shame.
With my talent and my hunger
I easily made my way.
Who sees a child
without any armor?
Without defenses he remains
always last in line.
Indifference, his reward.
She never got to see my triumphs,
why should I ask her?
Who sees a child who doesnt
have the strength to finally break free?
It was my belief,
my sincere wish,
to find the way out.
Does she ever feel loss,
or sorrow?
Does she feel that there is
a connection?
At least sometimes?
I would never dare call home.
What if she says Who?
You think I dont understand
the step I take
the choice I make
the risk I take.
You see a betrayal,
a defeat
as my last move.
Look at the fool, he is wise!
The strong one, weak!
Youre judging me,
but youre the same as me.
Its very easy
to go to the priest.
Its very quiet
the day after the party.
A marriage shows
all our flaws.
What a damned way
to smile and lie.
What right do you have
to beg and persuade?
To come here and judge
like some sort of headmaster?
When youre standing there,
feeling
and sharing your genius
with all your friends
like crazy cult members,
spiritual nudists,
youre walking all over other
people without even seeing them.
You leave your dear ones
where you found them,
and there are more and more of us,
who are more and more disgusted.
I mourn the things
that are happening.
You have all the right words
Trust my word:
whatever happens
Ill win wherever Ill go
in the world.
You should take it easy
and talk quietly.
You will fall heavily
from the kings throne.
There are many before you
who have disappeared.
Fucking idiot.
Dont you interfere,
you Bolsheviks!
Dont you have any discipline?
You stand here screaming..
.. as if all Hell is loose
There you can burn!
But what is this noise?
A guest at our hotel
should be picky
and not tolerate
screams and arguments
like those your
friends excel in.
We get paid for
cleaning up among those who fail
to show manners and finesse
and for being on the lookout
for criminality and anarchy.
You all should take it easy
and talk quietly.
Who will put an end to
this aggression?
s there any room for
Hope and Passion?
But dont you have an answer?
Youre the only one who
hasnt been humiliated by this!
You despise my talent.
Youre an ass!
Just get out and take
your whore with you as you go..
Everything you say proves
that you havent understood a thing!
Judas!
- Nothing!
Nothing! NOTHING!
You have all the right words
but you are toothless.
Trust my word:
whatever happens
Ill win wherever Ill go
in the world.
Is there anyone on this earth..
who wishes me well?
who doesnt take
my name, my soul?
Who wont beat..
my dreams to death?
Who wont kill your dreams?
Yes, there is one.
And who would that be?
I dont know anyone anyway.
Your son..
Misha,
Leave him out of this, Sasha.
I say the same thing to you!
Like an old dachshund, you
always need to have the last word.
If he were here I could
give all the love that I have.
If he comes, like I
hope and dream.
If he asks, everything will
be new like a blank slate.
You can stop whats happening
and not pretend anymore.
I cant live any more
where sanity rules
where my heart beats.
I love his scent
and when he touches my lips
I feel like fire, like wind,
like earth.
If he were here would he see
all the weaknesses I have?
If he comes
would it be possible
to turn around?
If he says everything in
my life will change today?
You should never regret
what youve done,
but the hope fades fast.
Every second your luck
might change,
love can leave.
Beat, my heart, beat.
He tenderly kisses me,
but when I wake up
the next morning.
..only the taste is left
from something Ive dreamt.
Happiness smiles at everyone,..
but never at me.
Beat, my heart, beat.
Beat, my heart, beat.
He is a man, he is a child.
And he has been
sleeping at my bosom
I gave my summer and my spring
and thousand words of comfort.
I will give my winter and my fall.
Years build upon years
and every season leaves new marks.
I poured newly fallen snow
out of my shoes.
Someone reached out
his hand for support.
When I looked up
he was standing there
and a thousand bells were ringing.
He painted Russias sky red.
He cries swords.
Im working at a grindstone
as days build upon days.
He is a man, he is a child.
But who am I?
A babushka, is that what he sees?
Someone who is always there,
whom you hardly notice.
A babushka.
Not a loved one anymore,
just a woman in the kitchen
with an aching heart.
Violent is the fury
in a woman scorn.
He is against her.
Hating and hating.
I want to burn.
Red and hot is my blood
but he thinks it has cooled
and calmed.
I am a woman.
If he only understood,
he who thinks Ill
quietly accept my faith.
Violent is the fury
in a woman scorn.
He is against her.
Hating and hating.
He is a man, he is a child.
And he has been
sleeping at my bosom.
I gave my summer and my spring
and thousand words of comfort.
I will give my winter and my fall.
Years build upon years
and every season leaves new marks.
I poured newly fallen snow
out of my shoes.
Someone reached out
his hand for support.
When I looked up
he was standing there
and a thousand bells were ringing.
He painted Russias sky red.
He cries swords.
Im working at a grindstone
as days build upon days.
He is a man, he is a child.
But who am I?
Come, tag along on our footpath
in sunny Merano,
flourishing Merano,
making your body healthy!
Our healthy baths, our clear air,
our proud chess union.
Come to our laid table
for a short second.
Once in a while, our Lords
hand wants to bless our Merano
The Rose of the Alps, Merano,
she suddenly prepares herself.
And is ready to praise
the aristocracy,
the press and nobles
watch the ceremony.
The city is filled by music.
Shes pretty, your Comrade.
She gets the highest score!
But shes a bit lazy.
Yes, I mean in bed.
She can be difficult, partner.
If she gets, partner
far too little of your attention
shell go mental.
Dont forget, partner,
shell be pleased, partner,
if she can play the star
in your small charades.
My God, what a wonder
that just the two of you
would become an item
and then they lived happily ever after!
Ever after.
Ever after.
Take it easy, little friend.
Is something bothering you?
What an ass.
Come on, arent you going
to get you some?
Youre afraid, partner.
A little slow, partner.
Are you afraid Ill come
and steal your dole
Youre wrong, partner.
Foul play, partner.
Youre over as a ladies man,
so take off the gorilla-suit.
What a dreamer
if you think shell always want you
She will deceive you
like she has always done.
It goes downhill fast.
To Hell with both of you!
- Right back at you!
Have you got
what you wanted?
Youve lost your halo.
So twist a little more.
What a filthy story.
You drank my blood, woman.
How brave, woman.
You have five hundred
doors left ajar
and youre acting
like a pig, woman.
What a pretty woman.
They flip out when they get
grey hairs and become senile
Are you sane?
Are you ill?
Cant you understand that
I never want to see you again?
Who could have imagined?
What a sad ending to the tale.
What pitiful wailing when
youve lost your faade.
I promise,
it doesnt make anyone happy.
Who would have thought
that we would separate?
Never, never again
will I listen to your nagging.
I swear, I can only feel hatred.
Let it be, hes drunk.
Theres nothing he can do.
Are you happy
with what you have
managed to ruin?
All senses, body and soul,
you have to touch.
I think you want to,.
I know you can.
Your eyes speaks volumes
but I want to hear it .
from your mouth.
Answer me:
Do you want to be mine?
You and I:
dreams made of glass.
reality in one beat.
Wonders happen in life.
The two of us belong together,
its is written..
We have agreed upon a solution
I have slept on it!
And I thank both teams for the respect
youve reverently shown me.
The next exercise begins
at three oclock.
Comes time, comes wisdom.
And I anticipate a
fair, adequate duel,
no jumble - no fraud
I want to see chess
as a gesture
Without intrigues
or crossing the line.
A game permeated by esprit
inspired by learning and fantasy.
I want to see chess
as a gesture
of peace and friendship
between East and West.
A game that defies
the tyranny of the times
and defeats stupidity
and barbarity.
As representative for the referees
we see the experienced
Jean Jacques van Boren.
The defector from the Soviet Union
competes against the American
champion for the throne.
Nothing can last for eternity.
Everyone knows whats wonderful
is brief.
You get one chance and
you make good use of it,
or you see a memory fade away.
That opens an opportunity
for someone else,
like a sudden spring rain in April.
You might know how
to read other men,
but my man, yes, I know
what he wants.
Does he want to be yours?
- He is mine!
He wants to be mine!
- Not yours.
Will you EVER understand that?
I know that he needs
a goal, a plan.
I am just like that!
- He wants to be free to dream,
I know what he wants!
No one can be loved
for all eternity,
every happiness finally
reaches its peak.
So let go of your man
and give us a life.
Youre number two in line after all.
I have learned about
everythings impermanence.
Ive become almost cynical.
Now Im ready to fight
But he is mine and Im
ready to fight
Yes, I know what he wants.
Does he want to be yours?
- He is mine!
He wants to be mine!
- Not yours.
Will you EVER understand that?
With the kind of power
love has had, everything
should be so clear.
Everything should be obvious.
Does he want to be yours?
He wants to be mine!
Will you understand
EVER!
I know that he needs a goal, a plan.
I am just like that!
I am just like that!
-You believing that is a mystery to me.
I know what he wants!
- To understand is to forgive.
I know what he wants.
An old dachshund? Is that how you see me?
- Where is Misha?
Perhaps I am an old dachshund?
Perhaps I dont want to adapt to all novelties?
Where is Misha?
You wonder where your son is.
Ill put it like this:
Your egocentric dreams of freedom make
it impossible for him to be where you are.
Dont talk bullshit!
Youve adopted the western
ideology very fast:
Think of yourself, first and foremost.
Are you trying to denigrate me?
Thats ridiculous!
You know me; weve known
each other for fifteen years.
I have worked, been loyal,
honored my commitments.
The Party has had a lot
of good use of me.
My name has been used as a role
model in many important contents
Ive always been on tour,
played exhibition matches in
hundreds of local chess clubs,
met thousands of workers,
Party members, students.
Ive given my life to the
interest of the people.
I have been Russian Champion
three times
received a decoration for Especially
Meritorious Soviet Citizen!
Since when do I only think of myself?
I still live in a two room apartment
in the outskirt of Moscow,
with a salary that barely
supports my family.
So your defection has
to do with your family?
My son, first and foremost.
How convenient.
You, whos been a damn
bachelor your whole life,
will not sit here and
moralize about my marriage!
There was a time,
a time of rapture for us who
could read the words of Lenin.
He came, like a god
descended from heaven,
down to a plague-stricken world.
And every question
got a clear answer,
absolute logic, the truth
was obvious.
But sacrifices are necessary
for something grand,
and sacrifices I have made.
I saw a glimpse
of her cheek
as the train left.
It was the worst moment of my life.
I have never in my life
seen her since,
Never since.
A sad moment,
a silent farewell.
Her eyes told me:
`You and I
it was us,
but you betrayed me today.
You, my husband,
forget if you can.
Some time passed,
I became a strange to myself,
changed more than I knew.
More a principle,
yes like a fixed idea,
than a man of flesh and blood.
So in the red maw of the revolution
I too was ground into
a new type of captivity.
Natasha became a dream I dreamt,
but never forgot.
I saw a glimpse
of her cheek
as the train left.
It was the worst moment of my life.
I have never in my life
seen her since,
never since.
A sad moment,
a silent farewell.
Her eyes told me:
You and I
it was us, but you
betrayed me today.
You, my husband,
forget me if you can.
So you want your son
but not your wife?
How to find our way through this maze
of impulses and emotional outbursts?
What do you mean?
Im worried about you.
I havent recognized you the last couple
of days.You seem very pressured.
Are you trying to paint me as a lunatic?
Just like that. Good luck.
Yes, the asylum personnel are
already waiting outside..
with a morphine shot
and a straightjacket.
Perhaps.
Youre a big comedian.
Ive always thought so.
Listen carefully.
The next chess game
will be your last.
Youll lose to Trumper.
Youll give up
since your health condition makes the rest
of the match impossible
you will fly to a hospital in
Moscow this very evening.
You are the first to admit that
your nightly visit to an American consulate
where you under remarkable
circumstances applied for political asylum
happened due to delirium
and a massive intake of alcohol.
You regret all the trouble youve caused
and withdraw your application
for asylum, effecting immediately.
Concerning Ms Vaszi, she will be
put under surveillance
I think its clear to you what will happen
to your family if you chose to stay in the West.
When can I get to see my son?
You ask me? An old dachshund?
TAL
TAL
LASKER
STEINITZ
STEINITZ
ALIKINE
BOTVINNIK
SMYSLOV
SPASSKY
EUWE
FISCHER
PETROSIAN
ANDERSEN
CAPABLANCA
CAPABLANCA
KARPOV
MORPHY
CAPABLANCA
What can I say?
What can I do?
Everything I felt,
what's thats happened,
can you explain?
I was too foolish to understand.
Foolish and nave.
I stepped right into the trap.
Can you take my word:
you are my everything.
You are my day, my night.
You are life
when it beats.
The wave that rolls in,
everything that vibrates.
You and I:
dreams made of glass,
crushed with one blow.
We stand among the shards,
we who belong together.
Separated, we leave.
What have I given you?
Have I betrayed you?
Do I have a choice?
The thoughts spin.
I want to keep you.
I have had enough of all games.
Now we are over,
now its over.
Can you forgive my betrayal?
I am your friend.
You are my sorrow,
my tears.
You are the pain when it breaks.
The wave that rolls in,
everything that vibrates.
You and I:
dreams made of glass,
crushed with one blow.
We stand among the shards,
we who belong together.
Separated, we leave.
A game of chess is strategy.
Each square hides something big.
In laughter and play,
in sorrow and betrayal,
youll learn from the
mistakes youve made.
How did it happen when chess was
shaped long ago in India?
Two princes were feuding, so the
story goes, about the countrys sacred seal.
And their father and mother,
wailed and cried like all we parents do.
They pleaded: Now stop before
someone dies but still a brother fell
What have you done?
His mother was beside herself.
Alas, your crime is grave.
No, your father can never forgive you.
Father, try to understand,
he wanted to kill me.
No, you have to leave.
You were my son,
but I repudiate you.
He left.
After some time,
he came back and counterattacked
with the help of small soldiers painted
in lacquer and placed on a chequered table,
so that he could prove
his brothers cruel plan.
Thats how he created chess.
On the shores of the Euphrates,
through the alleys and lanes of Babylon
People soon enjoyed the values of chess,
gave this wonder a song.
In a bivouac, when the city of
Byzantinium in the year 1453
through the smoke of gunpowder
and the light of explosions
could you see the refugees
play chess.
From Tiberian shores the board floated
to the kings court in a golden renaissance.
People played as if no other entertainment
existed and soon all played chess.
And every game
got rules and reason
Plan and strategy
Soon got a hint of power and corruption.
Chess became widely spread
by peasant and by king
Everything became black and white
and received the touch
of Freud and Mao Zedong.
And at the end, here is a game
born from a knife in Hindustan
and flourished for a while
in the songs of Iran
The simplest but also the hardest
of all known parlour games
for all and everyone with an open soul
For old men and children of modern times.
I see a picture Ive experienced before.
Like a fairy tale with unhappy ending.
The difficult question
is eating me up inside.
If you had the chance
to choose again.
Tell me what you want.
Tell me, would you
then do it all again?
The game can teach that
some moves only destroy.
But we know so well
there are a thousand reasons.
Though my heart is bleeding
I gave my life for the short moment,
the holy moment,
when our love burned
while the time passed
from the both of us
and disappeared.
You and I:
dreams made of glass,
crushed with one blow.
We stand among the shards,
we who belong together.
Separated, we leave.
English translation by: Solrosan
Tusen Tak!