Match Point

This programme contains some strong language.

SCRATCHY OPERA MUSIC PLAYS

MAN: The man who said, "I'd rather be lucky than good,"

saw deeply into life.

People are afraid to face how great a part of life is dependent on luck.

It's scary to think so much is out of one's control.

There are moments in a match when the ball hits the top of the net

and for a split second it can either go forward or fall back.

With a little luck, it goes forward and you win.

Or maybe it doesn't and you lose.

Just this way.

So, the Beach Club, Montebourg, tennis instructor,

Stanford House, Forty Village, Denair, Nice...

Yes, I've had a good deal of experience.

Yes, so I see. And I've heard very good things.

You don't miss playing professionally?

I thank God every day I don't have to do it.

I hate the whole tennis tour thing.

The constant travelling and...

I was never going to be Rusedski or Agassi.

You have to really want it -

not that I have their talent.

Well, your credentials and references are excellent.

-And you want to live in London?

-Very much.

Very much.

We have a very exclusive membership here.

You can begin this weekend.

Thank you.

Thank you very much.

-MAN:

-Uh, that's your sofa, which also doubles up as a bed,

which is great, you know, 'cause you can be watching some telly

you ain't got the hassle of having to go to a bedroom.

You can just open it up, get your kip.

Uh, kitchen just through there.

All your amenities, fixtures, fittings, washer, dryer.

All that stuff.

Lovely view not overlooked.

So, uh, it's all good.

This is £225 a week?

Well, it's London, mate.

Bang, mate. You know, if you don't like it move to Leeds.

Do you know what I mean? You got a wok?

You got a wok? It's one of those oriental sort of conical pans.

-No, no, no.

-The geezer who was here before, he left one in there.

You're welcome to it. I'll throw that in.

-I'll take it.

-That's a good choice.

Very good.

HE SIGHS

Chris Wilton, this is Tom Hewett.

-Very nice to meet you.

-Pleasure.

I think Chris will be the perfect instructor for you.

He's very patient, great at analysing a player's faults.

-SIGHS:

-I'm so out of practice.

I mean, I haven't played since university.

And I loved it, but I haven't picked up a racquet in bloody ages, so...

Don't worry. It comes back.

What you can't do is rush in and be discouraged.

OK.

-Good luck.

-Thank you very much.

-Have a go?

-Brilliant.

OK, so who was better or tougher - Henman or Agassi?

-They were both great.

-Yeah, I know.

But, I mean, you held your own more than admirably.

For a while.

But as the game goes on, you see how really good they are.

-Actually, I'll get this.

-No, no, no.

-No, please, Tom, I insist.

-No.

-Get your dirty, great forehand off.

-HE SIGHS

Thank you. I'll get the next one.

So, do you need a lift after this?

Actually, I'm looking for a music store. I want to buy some CDs.

Music around here?

I think there's one on the Fulham Road.

And they'll have a decent opera section?

-Opera? You like opera? Really?

-I love opera.

Papa gives loads to the Royal in Covent Garden.

I know this is gonna sound a bit weird,

but...would you like to go to the opera tomorrow night?

LAUGHS: To the opera?

Yeah. I mean, we've got a box and someone's not coming.

It's 'La Bloody Traviata'.

LAUGHS: My God. I'd love to.

Are you sure it's not an imposition? Can I at least pay for my seat?

It's not an imposition. It'd be an absolute pleasure.

I just like the fact that we both share a love for opera. Brilliant.

-So...

-So I said to David...

Evening, all. Hello, Mum.

Hello, sweetheart. Very nice to see you.

This is Chris. This is my father, Alec.

I hear you're an incredible tennis player.

I played once, and then I gave up and then I went back, then I gave up...

THEY ALL TALK AT ONCE

And this is my sister.

-There's a chair somewhere.

-Hi. I'm Chloe.

-Hello, Chloe.

-There's two more there.

MAN SINGS OPERA

Yeah, well, the olds say thank you very much for the lovely flowers.

They said it was very thoughtful and totally unnecessary.

But, uh, off the record -

well done, A plus, 'cause they love that sort of thing.

Oh, they're lovely people. And your sister's very bright.

Frighteningly so at times.

But, uh, anyway, she thought you were terrific

and she wanted to invite you to our country house

for the parents on Sunday.

'Cause they're having a party, there'll be some good people

and I'll play you some great music, because Dad's got an epic collection.

HE GROANS

Chloe, do you wanna have a knock with Chris for a bit?

It's just that it's five o'clock somewhere, darling,

and I've got some serious cocktails to start making.

Irish, have you ever had a Cuba Libra or a Caipirinha?

No, it'd be really boring for Chris to play with me on my own.

It's really boring for him to play with me, but he's a good sport,

and anyway, you've got better legs than I've got - chop, chop.

Don't be silly. I teach people who've never held a racquet before.

I'm so bad.

Well, that's how you get better - playing with a stronger player.

-Come on.

-OK.

-Was I dreadful?

-Not at all.

-You have a very unique style. LAUGHS:

-Yeah.

It's called "clumsy".

How did you get to be so good, anyway?

Tom says you played with some of the real greats.

For me, it was a way out of a poor existence.

Caught the eye of a good coach, I don't know.

It all came so easy at first.

-Do you enjoy teaching?

-Not really.

I mean, it's OK for now.

But I'd cut my throat if I thought I had to do it forever.

I'd like to do something with my life, you know?

Special. I'd like to make a contribution.

So, you're a poor boy from Ireland come to London.

-I love it.

-Mmm.

It's so exciting and alive.

I've never seen so much art or theatre -

not that I've taken much advantage of it yet.

Well, look, if you'd like someone to show you round,

I grew up in Belgravia.

I'd be happy to take you to all the good places.

That'd be great.

On one condition - I buy the tickets.

Oh, dear. Is that going to be an issue?

I'm afraid it is. SHE LAUGHS

I've very old-fashioned.

But, actually, I did read something about the...

exhibition in the Saatchi Gallery.

That's perfect.

It'd be my pleasure to take you.

You're very kind to offer this.

Can I at least give you some free tennis lessons?

-LAUGHS:

-OK. It's a deal.

How about Wednesday for the Saatchi?

I can do that.

Shall we meet for lunch first?

It's a date.

I'd better get ready. Your guests will be arriving soon.

Yeah, yeah, of course. Go.

Sweaty tennis players - hardly what they expect.

OPERA MUSIC PLAYS

WOMAN: So, who's my next victim?

You?

I haven't played table tennis in quite a while.

Would you like to play for £1,000 a game?

What did I walk into?

-What did

-I

-walk into?

It's like this.

-May I?

-Please.

You have to lean in and hit through the ball.

I was doing just fine until you showed up.

Ah - the story of my life.

So, tell me - what's a beautiful young American ping-pong player

doing mingling amongst the British upper class?

Did anyone ever tell you you play a very aggressive game?

Did anyone ever tell you you have very sensual lips?

Extremely aggressive.

I'm naturally competitive.

Is it off-putting?

I'll have to think about that for a while.

HE LAUGHS

-MAN:

-Ah, there you are.

I wanted to introduce you to Chris Wilton.

Chris Wilton, this is Nola Rice, my fiancee.

Ah. So, you're the tennis pro.

Hello, darling.

A pleasure.

He was trying to have his way with me over the table.

Oh, really? Well, you'd better watch out for this one.

He's made a living out of hustling.

I'll be ready for you next time.

I'll see you outside.

Oh, yeah.

-SIGHS:

-She's quite something, isn't she?

How long have you been together?

Mmm, six months.

Jesus, yeah. Six months.

She came over to study acting and I met her at a party that I'd crashed

and she'd crashed, and... one thing led to another.

I will say, it's taken Mother quite a while

to get used to the idea that I'm serious about her,

but...to be honest with you,

Mother's always had this funny little agenda

for me which doesn't really involve marrying a struggling actress.

Especially an American one.

But I am crazy about her.

Anyway, I think we should all go to dinner next week. What do you think?

-I'd love to.

-Excellent.

Now, Irish, how about a little drop of Scottish before supper?

Why not?

Lead on. Quickly.

SOFTLY: These afternoons have been great.

I'm so glad your schedule allows you so much time off.

Yes, it's fun.

Although it wouldn't hurt to have a few more pupils.

Do you need money?

God, no.

No, I'm fine.

It's very sweet of you to ask, but I don't.

I'm only asking because I care about you.

Shall we go to your place or mine?

I don't think mine's quite what you're used to.

GIGGLES: Shut up.

I think yours will be just great.

You've been seeing a lot of Chris Wilton lately I understand.

Yeah. He's very nice.

I liked him. I just don't understand what he's aiming for.

He certainly doesn't want to be a tennis pro for the rest of his life.

Well, I find him very likeable.

He's fought his way up the only way open to him.

And he's not trivial.

I had a very interesting conversation the other day

about Dostoevski.

Can't we do something for him?

A place in one of your companies or something.

-Has he expressed a desire?

-No.

But...he's open, you know, about his future.

He really wants to make something of his life.

Chloe, be careful.

Tom's involved with a woman I have reservations about.

-Don't rush off.

-Tom's happy with Nola!

You're prejudiced because she's American.

She's spoilt and temperamental.

She's an actress! They're emotional.

She's deluding herself and she's moody. She's not right for Tom.

Well, I care very deeply for Chris and I think he feels the same way.

Who are you talking about?

-Nola.

-Oh.

-Have you been waiting ages?

-Not at all.

Traffic was awful. The others will be here in a minute.

They're probably stuck in it somewhere.

Can I have a champagne cocktail, please?

One of your father's associates spoke to me today

about the possibility of a job.

Did you say anything?

Look, I just told Papa to keep his eyes open if anything juicy opened up

so you could have first option - if you wanted it.

-You're not cross, are you?

-God, no.

It's... extremely thoughtful of you.

Thanks.

Well, what do you think?

I'm gonna have to think about it.

I've never really seen myself in the business world.

Mm-hm.

So, what do you see for yourself? You know, in the future.

I don't know, really.

I mean, I'm sure it's a great opportunity.

I think it is.

Papa said it's a chance to learn the business.

And if things go well, he'll see to it, you know,

that you move up quickly or whatever.

I've always felt so-so about office work.

It's not exactly office work.

Think of it more as a stepping stone.

-To?

-To a bigger job, more responsibility, greater earning potential.

I don't know!

You've always said how much you admired Papa's accomplishments.

Well, of course.

I mean, it's strange, but coming where I come from,

I've always admired men like your father.

Wealthy but not stuffy.

Enjoying his fortune, having a grand time,

supporting the arts.

Well, he'd really like to open some doors for you, that's all.

He's a very generous man.

He respects how you've pulled yourself up against the odds.

You don't seem very enthusiastic.

I'm sorry. I hope my hesitation isn't upsetting.

No, no. Not at all.

It's just that, you know,

you've always talked about making a contribution and...

-I'm sorry.

-I will.

-Oh, good.

-Hello.

Hi there.

Don't worry. The traffic was awful.

It's my fault. I dragged Nola to the classic car show.

It's, uh...it was unbelievable.

I swear, my trousers are barely dry.

Oh, God. Shut up.

You love cars, though, don't you, Chris?

-I think the old ones are beautiful.

-Ah.

Yeah, I like the old ones.

But Tom likes all those new ones with the gadgets and...

I want an Aston Martin.

-I drove an Aston Martin.

-Really?

Yeah, I used to work... work for a man

and I used to wash his cars for him.

He was very, very particular about taking care of them,

so I had to wash them every day with a toothbrush.

I want an Aston Martin or one of those vintage convertible Mercedes.

Well, when we're married, we'll collect vintage cars -

just as long as I can have a DB9 with all the trimmings, OK?

In fact, Headley is perfect for keeping all those cars.

-In fact, speaking of Headley...

-Should we order?

-'Cause he's waiting.

-Oh, crikey. Sorry.

Uh, I'll have the baked potatoes with truffles. That'd be lovely.

I'd like the same, please.

WAITER: Nothing to start?

Oh, I think the wine list.

I'll have the caviar blinis, please.

Uh, roast chicken.

God, boring!

Honestly, they have the greatest caviar blinis here.

-You should try them.

-That's OK.

No, do you like caviar?

-So-so.

-"So-so."

He's been brought up as a good boy to always order modestly.

-I'm very sorry.

-He'll have the blinis.

My goodness, was your father an oil rigger who specialised in etiquette?

Uh, he was kind of austere.

Chris's dad was a bit of a religious fanatic.

-Oh, Christ.

-After he lost both his legs he found Jesus.

God. Sorry, but it just doesn't seem like a fair trade.

SHE LAUGHS

What were you saying about Headley?

Oh, Papa's invited us for some shooting.

So I'd better bring a different change of clothes.

Your mother didn't appreciate what I brought last time.

I think that was your swimsuit.

She's just used to slightly more fabric.

I'm sure if she knew you'd worn it in a movie she'd suddenly find it chic.

-True.

-Have you done many movies?

It was a commercial, not a movie.

But your eyes went straight to her, if you know what I mean.

I don't think my career has really gone as planned.

Oh, you just need a break.

I think it's important to be lucky in anything.

Well, I don't believe in luck. I believe in hard work.

-Mmm.

-Oh, hard work is mandatory.

But I think everybody's afraid to admit what a big part luck plays.

I mean, it seems scientists are confirming more and more

that all existence is here by blind chance.

No purpose, no design.

Well, I don't care. I love every minute of it.

And I envy you for it.

What was it the vicar used to say?

"Despair is the path of least resistance."

It was something odd, wasn't it?

I think that faith is the path of least resistance.

-Oh, God.

-Oh, God.

Can we change the subject, please?

Nola was talking about acting, which is much more interesting.

No, I was just saying that I think I'm giving acting a second thought.

I just can't bear people in my home town to think I've failed.

Not that I'm ever going back to Colorado.

Ever.

WAITER: Have you decided on a wine?

Two bottles of Puligny-Montrachet, thank you.

Good morning. Chris Wilton.

-Rod Carver. Good to meet you.

-Good to meet you.

You'll be working under Alan Sinclair here.

Hi, Alan. How are you?

At first you may find the assignments a little unchallenging,

but that'll soon change as you appreciate how things wash here.

-It's basically nine to five.

-Yes, yes.

So you'll have plenty of time to keep up the backhand, if you like.

And if you're OK with the package,

we'd like to begin first of the month.

I'm sure the salary won't be a problem.

-Good to meet you, Alan. And Rod.

-I'm sure you'll be happy here.

Exciting things are happening.

SHE LAUGHS

Oh, I can't tell you how happy I am you've taken that job.

It's such good news!

Here, I brought you this to celebrate.

Wow. Thank you.

Believe me, in no time you'll be running that division.

You're so much more on the ball than Alan Sinclair,

who's nice, but...uninspiring.

It's very rare.

It has some beautiful arias on it.

His voice expresses everything that's tragic about life.

You find it tragic, do you?

And you?

I love it.

Let's stay at home and have dinner and listen to the tragedy.

I'm gonna open one of those bottles of wine I got you.

Ah - Puligny-Montrachet.

I never heard of it before Tom ordered it.

Now I'm addicted.

Tom and Nola invited us to go and see a film with them tonight,

but I told them we're busy.

Oh?

We have no plans.

Well, no special plans.

I thought we said we'd stay in.

Yeah, but it wasn't written in stone.

We could have joined them.

We still can if you'd prefer.

It's...it's not a case of preferring it,

it's just...we always have fun with them,

and...you love films.

Well, shall I call them?

I mean, sure - unless you'd rather not.

Well, it might be more fun just the two of us.

The wine, the opera.

Absolutely.

I just figured...

We can stay in any night,

and they're free and suggested a film.

What's the film?

I don't know, but if you'd prefer it.

I am in the mood for a film.

TOM: Thank you so much for that.

Hi, guys. One second.

There you go, Pat. Thanks so much.

Good luck with the Sky Blues.

-Where is she?

-Mmm.

Nola got a migraine at the last moment

and unfortunately she can't make it, but she sends her love.

-Is she gonna be all right?

-Yeah, she'll be fine.

The hell with her. Motorcycle Diaries.

I bet that was her choice.

Everybody likes you at work.

SHE LAUGHS

Papa says he's heard great things.

You're a very clever boy.

SHE LAUGHS

Hey!

Hey.

-Hi.

-How are you?

What are you doing here?

I was, uh, just looking for a sweater.

-Uh-huh.

-The kind Tom has.

-Is it cashmere?

-Um, it's vicuna.

-Vicuna.

-Vicuna.

-Yeah.

-All right.

Where are you going?

-Oh, I'm just, uh, having a nervous breakdown.

-Why?

Well, I have an audition in 10 minutes and, uh,

as usual my confidence level, which started off at a 10, is now a zero.

Don't worry. You'll be great.

Yeah. I'm gonna be late, so...

-Are you walk... You wanna walk?

-Yeah. Sure.

Oh - my agent was supposed to meet me, but he cancelled,

so that's awful.

I'm alone to just...

Would you like me to come along for moral support?

Yes. That would be great.

-Sure. It's not a problem.

-If it's not a problem...

No, it's not a problem.

I used to get really tense before I had big tennis matches.

Uh-huh.

Have you ever tried yoga?

-No.

-No?

Hi.

-Hello. Hi.

-Oh. Hey.

How was it?

-Blew that.

-SHE LAUGHS UNCOMFORTABLY

Just works, you know, at home,

but, I don't know, I just can never really pull through in the end.

You will. You will.

You know what?

I could actually use a drink just to pull myself together a little bit.

-Sure.

-OK.

This way.

What was I saying?

Um...

My sister went to college for a couple of years,

um, but I'm like you - I'm self-taught.

You should see my sister -

she's very beautiful, but she's lost in drugs and...

I'm sure she's not more beautiful than you are.

Oh. What I am is sexy.

Linda's...my sister, um, is classically beautiful.

So, you are aware of your effect on men.

Before my parents split, they used to put her in these pageants.

-STAMMERS:

-It's a joke.

What'd your father do?

Um...

He...left.

And, uh, never sent any money.

And my mother could never hold down a job.

-No?

-No.

Her problem was that she drank.

How did you meet Tom?

Um, we met at a party.

He was...saw me across the room

and he honed in on me like a guided missile.

I...I liked him right off, you know.

I thought, um...well, I think he's very handsome.

Don't you?

Very.

And he asked you to marry him?

Mmm - well, he...

..swept me off my feet with presents and...you know.

What did I know about that kind of life?

I'm just a starving actress from Boulder, Colorado.

But...I had another bad marriage behind me.

That's another reason she hates me.

Who?

Eleanor - Tom's mother.

She wants him to marry this girl named Olivia

who I think is a distant cousin - I don't know.

It's sick. It's such an inbred family. It's...

And was it love at first sight for you too?

Um, I thought he was very handsome.

You know, and I told you I was just...

I was overwhelmed with attention.

So, what about you and Chloe?

She's very sweet.

Mmm.

She's very sweet.

And she wants to marry you.

LAUGHS: I don't think her mother would approve of that either.

No, no. It's different.

I don't buy into Eleanor and she knows it,

but you are being groomed.

You mark my words.

They almost died when they thought that Chloe had run off with some guy

that ran a gastropub in the city.

Mm-mm-mm.

You're gonna do very well for yourself -

unless you blow it.

And how am I going to blow it?

By making a pass at me.

And what makes you think that's gonna happen?

Men always seem to wonder.

They think I'd be something very special.

And are you?

Well, no-one's ever asked for their money back.

Where was all this confidence when you needed it in the audition?

I've had too much to drink.

-SHE CLEARS HER THROAT:

-Can you get me a cab?

Sure.

Thank you. You were driving a bit fast, weren't you?

Good morning.

-CHLOE: Which one is he in?

-Second one over.

Is he gonna be all right?

Well, yeah, Carmine came out to look at him the other week...

-Oh, he's so sweet.

-Basically the problem with the...

-Tom, can I feed him?

-Yeah, yeah. Whack in some hay.

Hey, baby.

You're so beautiful.

What would you say to the idea of taking a business course at school

the company would pay for?

I don't know.

I have had very good feedback on your work,

and at the beginning of next year

there's going to be a very significant position opening up -

one that carries a great deal of responsibility and pays accordingly.

Plus, there are a number of perks.

Expense account, driver, etc.

We had been focusing on someone else...

..but it's obvious to me that you and Chloe have become close.

Although I wouldn't consider it if I didn't think you were qualified.

I'd hate to disappoint you.

-Oh... Come on.

-We're nearly ready.

-I'll bring a gun for Chris.

-Thanks, Tom.

GUNSHOTS RING OUT

Never mind, fella.

This is basically a tune-up for the grouse season,

which is starting soon.

But it's, um, bloody good fun.

Don't frighten him.

His shooting's not really up to his tennis, poor thing.

I'll make an accomplished grouse shooter of him yet.

Don't you worry, Chris.

-Quite right, Papa.

-Come on, Chloe.

THUNDER RUMBLES

-Hi, darling. Have you seen my book?

-No.

How did your audition go?

Oh, it was pretty awful, I'm afraid.

It's her own fault, bless her. She just tightens up.

Well, I'm sure something worthwhile will come along.

Unfortunately, there's just not anything right now

that I'm that great for.

So, how long do you keep it up?

How long?

Well, if time passes and nothing significant materialises,

how long do you keep on going before you decide that...

to try something else?

I hardly think Nola's reached that point, Mother.

I'm not saying that - all I'm saying is you give acting a try for a time,

and if you keep being disappointed,

you have to ask yourself the question,

"Is this really what I want in my life? Is this what I want?"

Well, I do ask myself that.

See? It's only logical, Tom.

Especially for a woman.

It's a particularly cruel business for a woman.

And as you get older and time passes,

if nothing happens it gets harder and harder.

Eleanor, Nola isn't exactly over the hill.

-SHE LAUGHS: I'm not saying NOW.

-Oh.

But I'm a great one for facing up to realities.

Your take on these realities is your own opinion and nothing else,

and, frankly, not everybody else is interested in hearing about it.

Tom, don't raise your voice to your mother, please.

I'm not raising my voice.

I'm sorry, Papa, but she's always on Nola's case,

continually discouraging her via...innuendos.

All I'm saying is acting's so will-o'-the-wisp.

Those that have it know it right off.

To pursue it because you don't want to admit defeat to friends back home

is, frankly, unrealistic.

I'm sorry, but that's the way I feel.

Excuse me.

-Nola.

-That's OK.

I'd like to be alone, thanks.

Well, thank you very much.

And I'm sorry if I'm raising my voice now,

but you know that's her Achilles heel emotionally.

He's right, Eleanor. I think you've had one too many G&Ts.

THUNDER RUMBLES

I was looking for you.

I was upset. I just wanted to be alone.

I don't mean to intrude.

I need a drink.

I like you when you drink.

You get flirtatious.

-Do I?

-Yeah.

-And confident.

-I don't think this is a good idea.

You shouldn't have followed me here.

Do you feel guilty?

Do you?

We can't do this.

I know.

This can't lead any place.

SHE SINGS OPERA

Hello.

Darling, it's for you.

-SOFTLY:

-Take it outside.

Well, there's hope at least.

When's the call back?

Just let me know when you hear anything at all,

because I really think I could be great in this part.

Yeah. OK.

'Bye.

Why have you been so cold to me?

-I haven't been cold.

-Yes, you have.

Ever since we came back from the countryside

you've been distant, evasive.

I don't wanna encourage anything.

What happened happened, Chris.

I mean, the moment was very out of control for many reasons.

I was upset, I was drinking, and the storm was...

-Stop rationalising.

-I'm not rationalising.

Passions are passions, but we're both very involved with other people.

You're not such a good actress, you know. It's not possible.

SIGHS: You daydreamed about making love to me,

and I'm not saying the fantasy didn't cross my mind, OK?

We had our moment, but, you know, let's move on, get back to reality.

Chris, we're gonna be brother- and sister-in-law.

You're exactly as I pictured you...

Chris, forget it. It's over.

Thanks. Henry!

-How are you?

-Hey! Chris!

-All right. God, look at you.

-Good to see you.

Yeah, looks like you're doing alright for yourself, aren't you?

-You still doing the tennis tour?

-Yeah, I love it.

I love it. Look at this car.

Oh, don't worry. It's not mine. It's the company's.

Yeah, I know you found it a bit of a grind, didn't you?

I'm still circling the globe, deluding myself.

I just couldn't stand it.

No. No, I heard you went into business.

I'm a wheel in an office, if you can believe it.

-A big wheel.

-It's who you know, Henry.

I got involved with a woman. Very nice.

Family's got nothing but money.

Big estate, servants, polo ponies - all quite lovely.

Hey, look, I understand. Beats getting your heart broken all the time by the top seeds.

Isn't it amazing how much life turns

on whether the ball goes over the net or comes right back at you?

I always admired your game, though, you know.

-Thanks.

-You were very steady.

Cool under pressure but creative.

You could be a poet with the racquet, like Laver was.

-I lost to you as much as I beat you.

-No.

When I played you you never beat yourself.

A couple of bounces the other way,

you might have beaten some of those top seeds.

Listen, can I buy you lunch?

Actually, what about next time I'm in town? Give me your number.

Certainly. Um...I'm moving into a new flat, so this is my business card.

-You should call me any time.

-Very impressive.

It's so good to see you, Henry. You look well.

And you, mate. You look very, very well.

I could put lunch on the expense account, so...

-Do call.

-Good. Yeah, yeah.

-'Bye.

-'Bye.

SHE GIGGLES

Why on earth would your mother invite her here?

She met her at the supermarket yesterday.

-The supermarket?

-Can you play the piano?

No, I'm terrible!

So, when are you two getting married?

-Mummy!

-Oh, gosh! Eleanor!

Don't look so surprised!

You've been like two peas in a pod for a long time now.

Don't tell me the subject hasn't come up.

Mummy, come with me. You need a strong cup of coffee.

Come on!

Eleanor doesn't hold back when she's had a few.

Look, it's a reasonable question. Chloe and I have discussed it.

We would be delighted to welcome you into the family.

Tom would love having you as a brother-in-law,

and whatever you need, you could always rely on us.

I appreciate that.

Uh-uh-uh. Darling, one second.

I just think we, um...

You two have met, haven't you? I'm sure you've met.

I'm sorry. Um, who'd have thought...

What - that we were hiding in the pantry?

It's all her fault, you know.

How can I help it if she gets turned on by sexual intimacy

in places that we know we're gonna get caught?

You... You! The risky business was your idea.

All men who see you want to attack you.

Isn't that right, Christopher?

Oh, God, are you all right?

I'm fine.

I shouldn't drink on an empty stomach.

I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride.

APPLAUSE

Oh, my God!

-This is incredible!

-Isn't it?

-What's up here?

-That's the bedroom.

There's another bedroom through there.

The bathroom and the kitchen.

-A little terrace.

-Wow.

-But look at this view.

-That's breathtaking.

I just wish I could afford it.

Oh, don't bring that up again. You know it gives Papa pleasure to help.

Come on! The light coming through every day.

It's beautiful. It's huge!

We're gonna get lost in here or something.

Did I tell you I'm scared of heights?

-Really?

-Yeah.

That could be a problem.

I want you to make me pregnant.

Chloe, we discussed this.

-It's very quick.

-It's not quick.

We've been sleeping together for ages.

I want three children, and I want them when I'm young.

Come on, you can do it. You've got a powerful serve.

Oh.

Oh.

Hey! Where are you?

I know, I know. I'm sorry.

Not good.

Listen, I've gotta tell you something.

What?

Well, Nola and I...broke up.

-No.

-Yeah.

Or I should say I called it off.

I thought you were gonna get married.

Yeah, well, it's rather embarrassing to say,

but I think Mother rather poisoned the well on that one.

Not that I have any intention in marrying Olivia sodding Alred,

who's her main candidate.

SCOFFS: God, no.

I'm sorry. I don't understand.

Well, I suppose the whole truth,

nothing but the truth so help me God part of the situation

is that...I've met someone else.

-No.

-Yeah.

I met someone, I fell in love, and I just knew right away.

Although the fact that my mother is in seventh heaven about her

I keep trying to tell myself isn't a factor,

but...you know what I mean.

RINGING TONE

RECORDING: 'The number you are calling is not available.

'The number you are calling is not available.'

Excuse me.

-You looking for Miss Rice?

-Yes.

She's gone. Saw her yesterday.

She's, uh...she's given up the apartment.

-Did she say where?

-Not to me!

-Thanks.

-That's all right.

HE SIGHS

What are you thinking about?

Nothing.

Just business.

You know it's been over a week since we made love.

Oh, Chloe, I'm beat.

Am I being rejected?

Of course not.

OK. I can take a hint.

Meanwhile, I don't know what's wrong.

All my cousins get pregnant so easily.

Look, it'll happen.

I'm just...really tired.

Kiss?

Sweet dreams.

I now pronounce you man and wife.

You may kiss the bride.

APPLAUSE

Just in time.

I'm almost starting to show.

Well, you have to see a fertility doctor.

I know. We've tried everything.

What about this?

His brushstrokes are really intense, aren't they?

-Yeah, I don't like it.

-No.

Would you ever consider adopting?

No, absolutely not. I want my own children.

-This one?

-Um...

It's sort of...

Did I tell you Victoria Fyfe is pregnant?

-Really?

-She's so happy.

-Whoa.

Her and her husband just found each other.

All their neuroses intertwined so perfectly,

and it just works like a charm.

After all their unhappy relationships,

they met during a traffic accident.

-God.

-I know. It's great.

Well, our lawyers are going over it as we speak.

You'll have a draft by Friday, I promise.

If I have to work all night.

OK. Thank you.

Thanks.

HE SIGHS

Samantha, can I have two aspirin, please?

Thanks.

Are you OK, sir?

SIGHS: Tell me, Samantha, do you ever feel claustrophobic in here?

Um...no. Not really.

Oh, Christ.

I've gotta meet my wife at the Tate Modern.

There's a new painter she wants to show me.

If they call back, Samantha, tell them Friday, not before.

Goodnight.

-Chris.

-Oh! I was looking for you.

Hi, Carol. Hello, darling.

They've got the most amazing new artists here.

I want you to see this woman from St Ives.

-Oh, yes.

-Look, where are you going to be?

Why?

I have to make a phone call and I can't get any reception down here.

Well, we'll be over there, but hurry, 'cause they're closing soon.

I'm coming. OK.

Hello.

What a surprise.

Yeah. I moved back into town.

I didn't know you'd left town.

Yeah, I was...really upset about everything that happened,

so I just went back to America to look for a job.

I thought you hated that place.

Any place but here.

I looked for you.

For what?

You're still so angry.

Where are you living?

In town. Why?

You live alone?

Why are you asking me these questions? Aren't you still married?

Can I meet you for a drink?

Talk?

Where can I reach you?

-Come on.

-My goodness. Hello.

Hi, darling. Look who I bumped into.

-Hi.

-Hi.

-How are you?

-I'm good. How are you?

-You look great.

-Thanks.

How's Tom?

He's fine. Really well.

Yeah, I heard he got married.

Yeah. They've got a baby.

You know, Tom - all settled down.

OK. I think I've found it.

Do you two know each other? This is my friend Carol.

-This is Nola.

-Hi.

We've been looking everywhere for this video installation.

We can't find it all.

Will you excuse us?

-I think it's on the third floor.

-Yeah. No, no, no.

(Say your phone number.)

(What's the point?)

-Just...say your phone number.

-Chris...

Please.

Say your phone number.

02 079 460 996.

I'll call you.

'Bye.

I think he really knows what he's doing.

Didn't you get a good feeling about him?

To me, fertility doctors are a cut above witch doctors.

Yeah, well, he's not like that last one.

-It's OK, John.

-I feel like it's gonna happen this time.

You go ahead. I've got a few meetings.

-I'll drop you.

-No, it's OK. It's nearby.

-I'll walk. See you at home.

-OK. 'Bye.

You have a very charming flat.

The area's not so run-down as you said it was.

Um, I was lucky to find it on such short notice.

I mean, it's not perfect.

The building's been burglarised a couple of times

and the woman down the hall has mice, but...you know.

The lobby's decent.

The key word is it's cheap.

What time is it?

Time for you to go.

It's so hard to leave you.

Beautiful woman.

How'd you sleep?

Good.

God, did you see that stuff on the news last night

about that earthquake in China?

-Eugh.

-Mmm. Terrible.

And now there's this whole thing

about how they've discovered an entirely new planet.

-Yeah?

-Yeah.

I went looking for a space to rent for the new gallery yesterday.

Papa's getting so into the idea.

It should be good for you.

-I've gotta go to work.

-Oh, really?

Mmm.

I was kind of hoping we might, you know, before you went to work.

It's my time of the month, and remember the doctor said

we really should try and do it as often as we can in the morning.

Darling, I'm gonna be late.

Come on! It'll be fun.

Wait, I've got to take my temperature first.

So, you wanna meet the same time next week?

Let me come up.

We just spent an hour at the hotel. Don't tell me that you...

I'm sorry. I can't help it. You drive me crazy.

Mmm.

Mmm! You're gonna be late for work.

I don't care.

Come on.

-Oh, Mrs Eastby, hello.

-Oh, hello.

-Hey, did you get that pest control...

-Oh, yes, yes.

The traps work better with a little peanut butter.

It's much better than cheese,

despite the popular notion that cheese is best.

-Oh, this is Mr Harris.

-Good afternoon. How are you?

-Hello.

-See you later.

-Bye-bye.

-'Bye.

But I think that Bruslin Street would be perfect for the gallery

because it's just right in the thick of things and...

It'll just be a natural success, I think,

because you're great at picking paintings of bric-a-brac.

Yeah.

Knowing my luck I'll get pregnant the minute it opens.

Yeah, well, you can manage both.

I mean, Hez didn't have a problem

giving up Adair when we first had Rosie.

No, but we did have a lot of help, though.

But the nanny left us. Got a part in a movie.

Oh, actually, you know who we bumped into the other day?

Obviously you know, but... Nola.

Well, I told you we saw her... When was it? Ages ago now.

-Mmm.

-Well, she's now working in a boutique on Ledbury Road -

I think it's Paul & Joe's, or something.

But she's just such an odd girl.

I mean, she still looks great - I'm sorry, but it's true.

But something's just changed in her face.

I mean, we barely spoke.

Tom said she looked a bit hard.

Yeah, well, she's always, you know,

been a lady of the sauce, so to speak -

I think it kind of runs in the family - but...

I don't know.

I mean, she's still got that come-hither look.

Is she going out with anyone?

Uh, strangely I forgot to ask.

-I'll keep you in touch with that...

-Hello, Tom!

Hello, fella! What are you doing here?

We just popped in for a bit of, you know, local tagliatelle.

Good to see you. What a lovely family gathering!

Are you guys going to Headley next month?

Yeah, we're gonna try. I know Tom's dying to get away.

Hey, I was yelling at you the other day. You didn't hear me.

-Me?

-Yeah, you were hailing a cab.

On Malcolm Street, about five o'clock.

-I would have given you a lift.

-I was?

-No, not me.

-Yes.

-Where is Malcolm Street?

-I mean, certainly looked like you.

No, I'm afraid you're mistaken.

But people are always taking me for other people, so...

I'd have sworn it was you.

Well, it certainly wouldn't be Chris hailing a cab.

He's completely dependent on our driver.

Quite right.

You should check for early Alzheimer's. You're forgetting.

-I'm sure I'm right.

-No, you are mistaken.

But thank you for thinking of me.

I think the only thing that comes out of this conversation

is that you're both nuts.

-Well, you're an authority on that.

-Or drunk.

How dare you? How dare you?

We'd better be going on. Look, call me. Enjoy your supper.

-'Bye. See you.

-Nuts.

Good afternoon, Greta.

Samantha, what do we have for this afternoon?

-Uh, just the Saracen people at two.

-Can we push it an hour?

I should be back in time, but if I'm not, please make them comfortable.

Chris! Where are you off to?

I'm sorry, Rod. I've got an appointment.

Well, we have Saracen and company this afternoon.

I should be back in time, but if I'm not, please start without me.

-Really?

-It's OK.

It's important. Trust me.

It's ridiculous to go back to my place!

Once we get there you'll have less than an hour.

Look, it's not that I'm miserable with Chloe, it's just...

-I don't wanna talk about Chloe!

-Listen, it's just I'm bored.

-I mean, she's very nice...

-Chris!

-Are you in a bad mood?

-Yes, I AM in a bad mood!

I just blew another audition. I'm so sick of this acting thing!

-It's just not working out.

-It's a hard field.

-You have to keep plugging at it.

-I'm sick of plugging.

Tom's mother was right. It just gets to a point, you know.

Or should I say your mother-in-law?

Hey, look, let's not go into one of those, OK?

I don't know what I'm doing with you! You're never gonna leave Chloe.

Maybe I will.

Don't say that unless you mean it.

Chloe's just so desperate to get pregnant.

I mean, it's mechanical.

I don't know what I'd do if I couldn't see you.

Really, I mean it.

-Merry blood Christmas.

-Lovely.

How many cigarettes are you gonna smoke today?

-A million at least.

-Please don't start smoking.

-Well, it is Christmas.

-It's such a pity.

Come on. Just give us one...

Hello. I wanted to wish you a merry Christmas.

I've been thinking about you. Mm-hm.

I may be able to get away tomorrow for an hour or so.

OK. See you then. Bye-bye. FOOTSTEPS APPROACH

There you are, Chris!

Chloe tells me you've sustained some personal loss

in the market over the past few months.

SIGHS: Well, I guess I've been

a little bit careless, not concentrating,

and, of course, I thought I made good decisions...

Well, who could have predicted these?

Look, I don't want you and Chloe to worry.

You always have a safety net.

-You're too generous.

-No, no. You've made Chloe happy.

That means a great deal to Eleanor and me.

OPERA MUSIC PLAYS

I think it's gonna be an amazing holiday, don't you, Chris?

Yes.

Oh, we have a choice of sleeping on the boat or in the different hotels.

-Boat.

-Boat.

You know he's never been to the Greek islands?

-What?

-No, he's never been.

No. I have been to Athens, but I hear the islands are paradise.

Oh, that reminds me - we have to go to Sardinia

to pop in on Brooke and Dougie Winston.

-Oh, God!

-Oh, God!

No, Brooke's fine. Dougie's a nightmare.

Sounds so romantic, doesn't it? Mykonos or Crete.

I'm so anxious to see all the beautiful old temples.

-Oh, God.

-Yeah.

Oh, I'll do that with you.

You know, I bought Chris an ancient Greek fertility charm.

-Do you remember?

-I'll never forget.

I sent off for that fertility thing

and he had to put it under his pillow for two months.

LAUGHS: And absolutely nothing happened, of course.

MOBILE PHONE RINGS Poor thing.

I just subjected him to the torture...

-I think he's firing blanks.

-Hello?

I miss you.

-Love me, just love me.

-No, because it's not funny.

I'm sorry.

-I can't get away right now.

-Well, you have to.

When can you get here?

Tomorrow. No, Monday.

Look...it's a three-day weekend.

Tuesday.

Chris, I need to see you.

I'll see what I can do.

I'll call you right back.

-Who was that?

-I'm such an idiot.

I forgot to sign some papers. I may have to drive into town.

Oh, you can't go. It's a bank holiday weekend.

The traffic will be terrible.

I mean, we've all got plans.

I don't mean today.

Well, surely it can wait a couple of days.

Yes. I'm sure it can.

I think tomorrow we should go for a morning ride.

I have some lovely new horses.

Do you remember when Chris came here first

and he had some serious crashes while riding?

This morning he was talking about buying a horse of his own.

-No.

-Yeah!

Where from?

I think Nan's got a really nice mare.

-SOFTLY:

-Telephone call, sir. She said it was important.

Excuse me.

-Hello.

-I tried to call your mobile, but it's off.

Are you mad, calling me here?

When are you coming over?

SIGHS: I'm trying to make it for tomorrow.

I can't wait till tomorrow. I'm going crazy.

What the hell's the matter?

I'm pregnant.

I'll talk to you tomorrow.

..it was lack of enough vegetables or something.

Who keeps calling?

It was Samantha, my secretary.

I'm afraid I won't be able to go riding tomorrow.

Samantha said she was going to her parents' this weekend.

I know. It's all my fault, poor girl.

SIGHS: It's no big deal.

I'll pop back into town, the whole thing will take a few hours

and it'll be off my mind, I promise.

-It's really sad.

-Well, it is a pity, because I...

I think it's unfair on Samantha too, frankly.

-ALEC:

-Well, it's unfortunate,

but, you know, Chris has a lot of responsibility.

How the hell did you get pregnant?!

I told you that weekend last month

that we needed to be careful and I didn't have protection,

but you couldn't wait!

What unbelievable bad luck.

Christ, I can't get my wife pregnant no matter how hard I try,

and the minute you're unprotected I knock you up.

It's because you love me and you don't love her.

Is that your interpretation?

It's a child conceived out of genuine passion,

not as part of some fertility project.

Well, I'll go with you and we'll get it sorted.

-I'm not doing that again.

-Again?!

What's that supposed to mean?

It's the third time!

I did it once when I was younger and then I did it for Tom!

I didn't want to, but he insisted.

Nola, I really can't see any other way.

-Why can't I just have it?!

-And what?

-And we'll raise it together!

-That's obviously not possible.

Why? You hate your job, you hate your life.

I mean, it seems like a blessing! It's a sign.

Look, Nola, I have to go.

I'm juggling six things at the same time

just to make this trip to the city look legit.

I'll talk to you on Tuesday.

Chris! You must... I expect you to do the right thing, OK?

I'm not walking away from this!

Is anything the matter? You seemed very gloomy all weekend.

I wanted to talk to you.

What about?

Us.

Is something wrong?

Yeah, there is.

What?

If you're still taking a hammering financially in the market,

you know it's not a problem.

I can't keep leaning on your father, Chloe.

Papa gets more pleasure out of helping his family

than all the possessions he owns - you know that.

What is it?

Is it something to do with those phone calls you kept getting?

'Cause you acted really strangely after each of them.

Are you having an affair?

Am I having an affair?

Yeah, that's what I asked.

No.

-You are.

-Of course I'm not. Don't be silly.

Do you not love me anymore?

-SIGHS:

-Of course I love you.

Well, what's wrong?

I just feel like I'm letting you down.

You're not! How?

Is it because I'm not getting pregnant?

I just...feel so guilty.

So terribly guilty.

Listen, Chris, we've both been to the doctor, we're both perfectly healthy.

I can conceive and you're perfectly capable of making a woman pregnant.

Is it me? Have I been horribly pushy and obnoxious on the subject?

Look, I...I just want a baby.

I want to have our baby.

We haven't been lucky yet, that's all.

Oh, Chloe.

Let's get off the subject.

Having a child should be something that makes us both happy and excited,

not...a cause of all this tension and anxiety and...

SHE SIGHS

CHRIS: I had to talk to somebody.

I'm really suffering.

Whatever you tell me goes no further.

I'm contemplating leaving my wife for another woman.

Uh-huh.

But when the time came to tell her...

..I couldn't do it.

Oh, well, it's not the easiest thing to do, is it?

It's crazy.

I can see no real future with this other woman

and I have a very comfortable life with my wife.

Yeah, but if you don't love her...

I'm not saying I don't love her!

Just not in the way I feel about this other woman.

Well...

Maybe it's finally the difference between love and lust.

But what the hell am I going to do if I leave Chloe?

I don't fool myself

that I haven't gotten used to a certain kind of living.

Am I supposed to give it all up? For what?

Is it for a woman you love?

To live how? Where?

To work as what?

Well, it seems to me that you're pretty good at what you're doing.

There must be another job in another firm that you can just, you know...

Let's face it - I'm the boss's son-in-law

and he loves me.

Doesn't seem to me like you want this other woman enough

to give up everything you've achieved for it.

We're going away for three weeks.

When I get back, I'll tell her.

When you get back?

What am I supposed to do?! Stop playing games with me!

I'm not playing games with you.

Why don't you just tell her now, then, huh?

I'd think you'd want to stop living such a sham.

-Look, it's not easy.

-Why not?

If you're so bored at home with her and you're so crazy about me,

which is all you ever tell me...