💬 Being There (1979)

A cigar, then?

A criminal record? A membership in a subversive organization?

A dash of American humor.

A flower.

A garden needs a lot of care and a lot of love.

A garden? What are you growing, man?

A leader capable of guiding us through the bad seasons, as well as the good?

A long time ago, people didn't have television...

A small black man gave me a message for Raphael.

According to our inventories, there hasn't been a man employed here since 1933.

Actually, I found him to have quite a sense of humor.

After a man's lost everything...

After all, they're our strongest defense against the pollutants...

Ain't you the gentleman this morning.

All kidding aside, Mr. Chance, may I ask just what you're doing here?

All right, it's set.

All right. Get this. Pete Montana 's through.

All set.

Almost.

An attorney? Yes.

An old habit that goes along with power: Keep them waiting.

And all will be well...

And appreciate the times when the trees are bare...

And Ben, thank you for your time and thought.

And Ben's friends are...

And fall and winter? Yes.

And filling in for the Vice President.

And I do agree with the President

And I don't want to go against his wishes...

And I reveal myself to myself and I am drenched...

And I think you're just the man to take charge of an institution like that.

And I've remained honest to myself.

And if you don't see a clock...

And if you give your garden...

And it was 95 percent pro.

And make it snappy.

And nobody ever crashed the gate except Pete Montana.

And now, the piece of resistance...

And on top of everything else, holds a degree in medicine as well as law.

And over here, we plant something different every year.

And swimmer's what?

And that something is you.

And that's the gardener's house.

And the mail and telephone response from his appearance on that Burns Show...

And the scuttlebutt is he's a strong candidate for a seat

And then boom boom and boom boom.

And then we get spring and summer again.

And there is plenty of room...

And they look very much alike.

And they would put pictures like these...

And this is Mrs. Skrapinov.

And this is the greenhouse.

And we want to remain seated on them, correct?

And when you watch me, my passion...

And where have you been all my life?

And you know what that means? No.

And you really are a gardener, aren't you?

And you take care, too, Bobby.

And your coat buttoned. Yes, ma 'am.

And your comments on the television show are quoted alongside the President's.

And yours, Chauncey Gardiner.

And, Chauncey,

And?

Any political future I had is right down the toilet.

Anybody who'd try to stop him has to be totally stupid.

Anyway, the President has volunteered to sit in for Ben at the convention.

Aplastic anemia.

Are you going somewhere?

Are you going to die now?

Are you going to leave and close this house when Ben dies?

Are you kidding? We were inseparable.

Are you planning on making any sort of claim against the Rands?

Are you proficient in other languages? He's so modest, Ambassador Gaufridi.

Are you related to the deceased?

Are you there?

Are you waiting for someone? An appointment?

As in a garden of the earth, let us learn to accept

As long as the roots are not severed...

Because I have a message for him.

Because nobody knows what death is.

Because, if one goes, the other goes.

Before I was born.

Ben is very ill, Eve. I've seen that before.

Ben is very wise.

Ben told me that the President was very taken with you this morning.

Ben understands my feelings for you, by the way, and he accepts them.

Ben, did you read my speech?

Ben, I mean...

Ben, I was wondering if you had a chance... Yes?

Ben.

Better than yours, so I've been told. You heard about it?

Big Bird, we came to see you drive.

Bobby.

Bravo, sir. Outstanding!

Bravo.

Bullshit!

But after a year in the hospital, he went back to school...

But first, some things must wither.

But I found that...

But I have decided there are no temporary stopgaps.

But I think, Mr. President, that it is very dangerous

But I'll tell you right now, Bobby...

But I've tried, Chauncey, believe me, I've tried...

But I've tried...

But it's a rather large contusion and I'd like to keep an eye on him...

But our firm has no record of any such transactions.

But there's something in the wind. Something rather big in the wind, I'd say.

But they cannot determine his ethnic background.

But they're really photographs. Take a careful look at them.

But this is facing west.

But what caught Gary's interest was your down to earth philosophy.

But what makes my blood boil...

But, sir, you must've at least glanced at it. I did not glance at it.

But, sir...

But, you work on the idea.

By the way, Mr. Gardiner, I'd like to ask you something straight out.

Call me, or have your attorney call me...

Certainly. This is Dr. Robert Allenby.

Chance, the gardener.

Chance?

Chance.

Chauncey

Chauncey Gardiner, Mr. Rand's close friend and advisor, was at the meeting this morning.

Chauncey Gardiner? Mr. Chauncey Gardiner.

Chauncey,

Chauncey, I'm just so very grateful that you're here with us.

Chauncey, I've never seen anyone handle the press the way you do.

Chauncey, there you are. What are you doing on that leg?

Chauncey, where did you go?! Chauncey...!!!

Chauncey? Yes?

Chauncey.

Chauncey...

Come on, now, wait a minute, Chauncey.

Come on, Sally, let's grab a bite.

Come right in. It's an all girl show.

Come, sit down. Take a load off your feet.

Computers have analyzed his...

Constance, I want fresh blood for dinner.

Correct. That could be an asset. A man's past cripples him.

Could you give us the name of your doctor or your dentist?

Could you please tell me where I could find a garden to work in?

Darling, what's wrong?

Decoral. Five milligrams.

Did she do a good job? Yes, it looked just like this.

Did that chicken shit asshole Raphael send you, boy?

Did you happen to have a chance to go... Yes?

Did you lose something?

Do that. Good day.

Do well in the sun...

Do you agree with Ben, or do you think we can stimulate growth through...

Do you know Raphael?

Do you mean that you find television's coverage of the news

Do you need a secretary?

Do you realize more people will be watching you tonight

Do you remember what I was talking to you about last night?

Do you think so?

Does he?

Does it have a television?

Does this house have a garden? Why, yes. Many.

Doesn't a country need to have someone in charge

Doesn't seem to be too serious.

Don't be frightened of it. It's important to know that, yes, you could roll over.

Don't leave me alone with him for too long.

Don't worry, he might be a breath of fresh air.

Don't you think?

Elevator.

Eve is staying.

Ever since I can remember.

Ever since I was a child I've worked in this garden.

Ever watch a game on TV and see the players chugging down this stuff?

Ever wonder why?

Everyone seems to make such a to do out of a simple little accident.

Except for a Mr. Joe Saracini...

Excuse me, but would you tell me your name again?

Excuse me.

Excuse me. That tree is very sick. It needs care.

Feeling so good it shows. Because Posturepedic is designed...

Feels terrible.

Fertilize it.

Fine.

First American Financial Corporation?

First comes spring and summer...

Flash cards for schools or something.

For Christ's sakes, we've got volumes of data on Rand.

Founder and Chairman of the Board,

Gardiner, yes, sir. And I'd like it sometime today.

Gardiner.

Gardiner. Gardiner. Chauncey. Chauncey Gardiner.

Gardiner's laconic. He plays his cards very close to the chest

Gary's ready for you now. Yes.

Gentlemen, let us not fear the inevitable chill and storms of autumn and winter.

Get Baldwin and Honeycutt over here. I'll be right down.

Getting rid of the dead wood

Give me your hand.

Go, Chauncey, I'll be just fine.

Gobbledygook!

Good day, Mr. Chance.

Good day, Sally. Good day, Thomas.

Good day, sir. Good day.

Good evening, ma'am.

Good luck. Good luck.

Good morning, Louise.

Good morning, Mr. Rand. Good morning, gentlemen.

Good.

Good. Yes. We're fine.

Guess it ought to be an old lady.

Have it in my office, tomorrow at 7:00.

Have you read the newspapers?

Have you seen the garden?

He and my father used to ride together, back in the '30s.

He could never take an election. Correct.

He does talk like one. But I think he's brilliant.

He had no brains at all.

He is different, isn't he?

He just never advertises his accomplishments.

He liked you so much. He really did.

He makes a thing of value for his family...

He makes me feel good.

He must have been involved on some major financial level

He presented them with a statue of the American eagle...

He reminds me of the old man.

He said it was his. He walked us through it.

He showed us a room in the garage where he said he stayed, and...

He told me that he had been living there since he was a child...

He was here for two and a half days in 1952.

He was very clever, keeping it at a third grade level, that's what they understand.

He was very fat, had short hair...

He wasn't breathing...

He waters it...

He would, would he? Yes.

He...

He'll lift his left forefinger to his left eyebrow. All right?

He's a decent fellow, isn't he, the President?

He's been on television.

He's dead, Chance.

He's dead, you know. Dead, my ass.

He's gone, Chauncey.

He's not there. Not there?

He's on both lines.

He's resting now, and there's no cause for alarm.

He's such a kind and sensitive man.

He's very attractive.

He's very, very sexy.

Head in the hole.

Hell, I don't know.

Hello, Big Boy. Hello, Rico.

Hello, Gary.

Hello, Mr. Hull? Mr. Gardiner has agreed to do the show.

Hello, Mr. President.

Hello, Ronald. How are you?

Hello, Thomas. I'm Chance, the gardener.

Hello, Vladimir.

Hello.

Here I am getting along in years...

Here is my closet.

Here, I'll show you another one.

Here?

Here. I want your shoulders to go right on this pad.

Hi, neighbor. There's somebody at the door.

Hi. Hi. I'm Riff. Secret Service.

Hi. How do you do? Hello.

Highly unlikely, sir.

His background turns into a swamp and invites scrutiny.

His suits...

His underwear, all of the finest cloth.

Homosexual, perhaps.

Hospitals can be so impersonal.

How are you? I'm fine. How are you?

How long do we stay in here?

How long?

How very nice to have you with us this evening, Mr. Gardiner.

How will I know when it's 10:00, Robert?

How's Mr. Gardiner?

I admire your good, solid sense.

I agree.

I agree. Fine.

I am a very serious gardener. I'm sure you are, Mr. Gardiner.

I am...

I asked Nurse Teresa to fix me up a bit.

I assume, since the President quoted you,

I assure you, sir, David is a very careful driver.

I believe that you know Krylov.

I can already hear the gossip.

I can understand that.

I can't write. Of course not. Who can, nowadays?

I can't.

I couldn't stand it.

I dare you to stop me in my Super Cop Clobberer.

I did not read that.

I didn't know you spoke Russian. It's incredible.

I didn't want the President to think I would die while he was talking to me.

I do believe, gentlemen, if we want to hold on to the Presidency...

I do hope your injury won't prevent you from attending to business.

I do not read papers. I watch TV.

I do not want Ben disturbed.

I don't even know what they look like.

I don't have that anymore. All I have left...

I don't have very many friends.

I don't know how to sign, Thomas.

I don't know what you like. I'm sorry.

I don't know, Senator, but it wouldn't surprise me.

I don't know.

I don't know. We'll see what the doctor says.

I don't read papers.

I don't think so.

I don't think that's entirely true, Grover.

I don't want to hear anymore from you about that room upstairs.

I feel safe.

I feel so close to you, Chauncey.

I feel very good in here.

I found Mr. Gardiner to have a feeling for this country that we need more of.

I get depressed, you know, this kind of thing...

I have no claim.

I have no doctor or dentist.

I have trouble writing a postcard to my children.

I haven't quite decided what we'll plant this year.

I heard he speaks eight languages.

I hope that you'll stay here...

I hope the entire country was listening.

I insist. We'll take him to a hospital.

I just can't, right now.

I just can't.

I just wanted to get some fresh air.

I just wanted you to know how delighted I am...

I know exactly what he means. Isn't it wonderful...

I know exactly what you mean, Ben.

I know it's important to stay informed of all the latest events, but...

I know it's ridiculous, but there is no information of any sort about Gardiner.

I know that Ben said, "Keep it small and quiet."

I know.

I like the President very much. He's a nice man.

I like to sleep with my head facing the north.

I like to watch TV.

I like to watch, Eve.

I like to watch.

I like you to be here.

I live here.

I love Eve very much, Robert.

I may be a shut in, but...

I miss you so when I'm out. How're you feeling?

I must admit, that is one of the most refreshing and optimistic statements...

I must confess, I had suspected as much all along.

I must warn you that Chauncey's not a man to bandy words.

I never had much feel for it, myself.

I plan to contact Mr. Rand the minute...

I raised that boy since he was the size of a piss ant...

I said that since Mr. Rand is ill, I'm taking the liberty of asking you.

I said, try again.

I saw the President's speech at the Financial Institute today.

I see.

I see. Shall we set up the communications in the usual place?

I shall yield, too, Eve.

I should start the seeds for the spring and work the soil.

I sleep better that way.

I still don't believe I know the man, Mr. Gardiner. Now, please...

I suppose I better gather you up some breakfast.

I swear, between you and Benjamin, I've got my hands full.

I sympathize with you...

I think I'm...

I think what our insightful young friend is saying...

I think you should ask Mr. Rand that.

I think you'd better leave, Eve.

I touched him, just to see.

I understand, Ben.

I understand.

I understand. Good.

I understand. Very good.

I use it to change the channels.

I used to listen to the radio.

I want the standard file, you know that. Right, chief.

I was just cleaning up some loose ends.

I was. Yes.

I will, Ben. Yes.

I won't be long. I've just got to talk to her about this gardener.

I won't have the horses standing in the sun. You hear me?

I would like to see Ben.

I would like to work in your garden.

I would love to escort Eve.

I would've just opened up. You know? You know that.

I would've just...

I'd like my eggs poached this morning, please.

I'd like to meet a reasonable man for a change.

I'd like to sing about something even more special.

I'd like to talk to you about Chauncey.

I'd like very much to thank you for joining us on such short notice

I'll expect plenty of service. You'll sure get it.

I'll have one of those. Thanks.

I'll have them set another place.

I'll make you some eggs.

I'll provide you with the very best ghost writer, proofreaders...

I'll see you after Dr. Allenby has a look at your leg.

I'm a very good gardener.

I'm allowed to go to the attic and wear any of the old man's clothes.

I'm awfully tired.

I'm certainly open to the idea.

I'm doing a lot for you, Rico. When I get you planted

I'm glad you didn't open, Eve.

I'm going to go now, Chance.

I'm going to meet the President...

I'm going to walk.

I'm so grateful.

I'm sorry for yelling like I did.

I'm sorry you had to go through all that.

I'm sorry you're so sick, Ben.

I'm sorry, dearest. I just...

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry. All I can think of is trunks.

I'm sure it is. That's what they say, anyway.

I'm sure you do. No one reads.

I'm sure you'll sprout some thoughts in a few days.

I'm Thomas Franklin.

I'm very hungry.

I'm very hungry. Could you give me some lunch?

I'm very sorry, Mrs. Rand. I never saw the man.

I'm very sorry, sir, I didn't see you. Can't move. My leg.

I'm very sorry.

I'm very well. I'd like you to meet Chauncey Gardiner.

I've been thinking about starting a financial assistance fund.

I've missed you, my friend.

I've never been allowed outside of the house.

I've never been in an automobile.

I've never been in one of these before.

I've never ridden in an automobile before.

I've never seen anything like this on television.

I've seen it done before, in a film on television.

I've seen this before.

I've spoken to them, my associates.

I've watched him on television.

I've...

If Gary wants to interrupt you, or ask you a question,

If I see Raphael, I will give him your message.

If you think I'm going out in this harness, you're crazy.

If, indeed, you have resided here, you have no legal right to remain.

In a garden, growth has its season.

In fact, the boys around the Bureau feel...

In the garden? Yes.

Instead, let us anticipate the rapid growth of springtime.

Is it all clear there, boys? Can you read that?

Is it me?

Is it possible to erase all traces of a man?

Is it something I've done? No, sweetheart, it's not...

Is Mr. Franklin in?

Is that all you've got to say?

Is there a TV upstairs?

Is there anyone we could notify for you?

Is your leg feeling any better?

Isn't he?

Isn't that true, Eve?

Isn't that what any businessman is? A gardener.

It concerns Chauncey Gardiner.

It could be an extremely confidential matter.

It did hurt.

It feels just like it's going to snow... Damn it, boy.

It happens to old people.

It is a good garden.

It is extremely useful to speak Russian today.

It is possible...

It is so glorious when they bloom.

It should be examined. We could take you to a hospital.

It was nothing, really. It just sounded worse than it was.

It would be absolute lunacy to support the President for another term.

It's 10 after 9, now.

It's 10:00.

It's a little too late now, isn't it?

It's a new car!

It's all make up.

It's always somewhat surprising to find men like yourself

It's amazing how those clothes have come back into style.

It's an all girl show, sir. It's an all girl show.

It's been an exhausting day for Ben.

It's fine today, Robert.

It's for sure a white man's world in America.

It's good to see you. You look terrific.

It's happening to everyone, I'm afraid.

It's like Gardiner never existed.

It's not broken, is it? Can you walk? I hope not.

It's not that, it's just that I...

It's not you.

It's one of Mr. Rand's. Since he's been ill.

It's pretty obvious that Robert here is not going to allow me to attend.

It's really no one's fault, David. Thank you, ma'am.

It's slightly long...

It's strictly at the rumor stage now, Lyman.

It's such a pleasant way to forget one's troubles.

It's that gardener. Yeah. Chauncey Gardiner.

It's very difficult...

It's very good.

It's very hard for me, too, Eve.

It's very hard...

It's very precise, sir.

It's wonderful, isn't it? Yes.

Its trees are healthy...

Jesus, the thought of spending the rest of my life as an attorney...

Jesus!

Jim's back was broken in three places, his skull was fractured...

Jogger's knee and swimmer's...

Just fine. Good. I am fine, too.

Just how long have you been living here, Mr. Chance?

Just one quick question, Mr. Gardiner...

Just show the President into the library. We'll be along in a few minutes.

Kaufman, I'll need some information on Mr. Chauncey Gardiner's background.

Kaufman, what the hell are you talking about?

Keep in the shade, Alvin. Yes, ma 'am.

Keep your hat and gloves on. Yes, ma 'am.

Keep your weight off that leg, Mr. Gardiner.

Keeps my spirits up.

Kinney, what have you found on his background?

Knee to the chest and experimenting with the weight...

Last night you mentioned an old man that died.

Let me feel your strength.

Let us await the rewards of summer.

Let's let the men talk. Would you two excuse us for a moment?

Let's see who that special person is. It's Mr. McFeeland.

Let's see.

Look at him now.

Look, Johanna... I said, goodnight.

Look, we can give you a six figure advance.

Looks like you're up. I am?

Lord, Chance...

Marker.

May I ask your name?

Maybe there's another gum machine someplace.

Maybe you should talk to somebody, darling.

Messenger. Manager. What did I say?

Mr. Benjamin Turnbull Rand, agrees with me on this...

Mr. Chance, I'd like to know what sort of claim...

Mr. Chance, I'm very pleased to meet you.

Mr. Chance, this is Ms. Hayes.

Mr. Courtney, are you there?

Mr. Franklin, I must ask you and Ms. Hayes

Mr. Gardiner stay here? Why? Is that necessary?

Mr. Gardiner,

Mr. Gardiner, I have the producer of The Gary Burns Show on the line.

Mr. Gardiner... Oh, yes... Yes.

Mr. Gardiner...?

Mr. President.

Mr. Rand would like to see you.

Mr. Rand, the President is arriving.

Mr. Thomas Franklin told me I must leave the old man's house.

Mr. Thomas Franklin, please.

Mr. Wilson, wheel Mr. Gardiner in for x rays after you've finished unpacking.

Mrs. Aubrey, the President is arriving.

My editors and I have been wondering if you'd consider writing a book for us.

My God, Eve, you'll freeze.

My goodness, your leg!

My house was shut down.

My husband and I are very good friends of theirs.

My husband's been very ill. The doctor and the nurses are staying with us.

My plan for financial assistance to businessmen.

My roses.

Natasha. Hello, Natasha.

Neither agency will admit to a thing. All right.

Nice to see you. Thanks.

No driver's license, no wallet, no credit cards.

No headaches?

No matter how strong the temptation.

No, Ben. Oh, sure you do.

No, Eve.

No, he's a real gardener.

No, it isn't.

No, it's been a fairly good day.

No, it's...

No, sir.

No, sir. I don't believe I do.

No, sir. I just don't know what I was expecting.

No, thank you.

No, thanks. I never touch the stuff, never.

No, that wouldn't do any good.

No, you're... you're direct.

No.

No. But Mr. Rand does have one with an electric motor.

No. I don't think so.

No. I just...

No. I'd like to look. What's happened?

No. I'm not badly injured. But my leg is very sore.

Nobody likes a dying man.

None, that this reporter has met, had the guts to admit it.

Not a damn thing they can do about it.

Not necessary, but helpful.

Not now, Arthur.

Not so far.

Not with that little thing of yours.

Nothing.

Now listen, Rico...

Now move, honky, before I cut your white ass.

Now, Chauncey, I'm afraid I must excuse myself.

Now, I ask you that because there is something...

Now, I know that many of you...

Now, I'd like some answers. Gardiner's not a foreign agent.

Now, wait, you have to put your head through the hole first.

Now, you take care, Ben.

Nurse Teresa did a very good job there.

Of CCT.

Of course, my...

Of course, the roses are my favorites.

Of course, your position in the financial community carries a lot of weight.

Of course.

Of course. Okay, let's go to work.

Of course. They would like you to appear on the show tonight.

Of men and women.

Oh, and Mrs. Aubrey...

Oh, Chauncey... You have the gift of being natural.

Oh, fine... Thank you.

Oh, his maid. Yes.

Oh, I've been labeled a kingmaker,

Oh, Lord!

Oh, Mr. Gardiner... I have a telephone call for you.

Oh, no, Chauncey!

Oh, nonsense.

Oh, yes, I have watched that show.

Oh, yes, please. Thank you. Thank you.

Okay, Sally, I'll see you in 20 minutes.

Okay.

On television, Mr. President, you look much smaller.

On the board of First American Financial.

On the meeting between Mr. Rand and the President and yourself?

One of the first things you should know about me, my darling...

One. Two.

Or may I call you Chauncey?

Or thirdly, the man's files have been destroyed.

Our chairs are almost touching.

Our chairs are indeed almost touching.

Overall, pretty good.

Pardon me for intruding at a time like this, but were you very close to Max?

Perhaps I should call an ambulance. Let's have a look. Do you mind?

Perhaps.

Permit me, then, to drink to the new boss of the North Side.

Please, lie still, Mr. Gardiner.

Please, not a word. Of course, Doctor. I understand.

Please, sit in the chair.

Prolong my life with steroid therapy...

Put your arms up.

Quite a bit.

Quite a nice gesture. They're due here soon, I believe.

Reasonable...

Regretfully, we shall yield the pleasure of your company to others.

Reluctant to speak, eh?

Remarkable.

Say, that is coming along. The swelling's gone down considerably.

Sell a million shares of Inland Oil.

Sell all 750,000 shares

Send up number seven, please.

Shall we go?

Shame on you, Chauncey. Let me be the judge of that.

She cares for you.

She said she will not close up the house.

She used to bring me my meals.

She was his maid.

She was very kind to me.

She's a delicate flower.

Short changed by the Lord and dumb as a jackass.

Shouldn't we get together more often to exchange our thoughts?

Shut down and closed by the attorneys.

Sid, be reasonable. I have been everywhere.

Since he's been around...

Sit down, Rico. Yeah, thanks.

So am I, Eve.

So am I.

So Eve wouldn't have to cope with it.

So I'm going to rethink my position and find another solution.

So stupid of me. I thought maybe she was perhaps someone

So then, what are your plans, Chauncey?

So whose files were destroyed? The CIA's or the FBI's?

So, you know your Krylov in Russian, do you?

So, you'd be doing me a great favor...

So, you're saying

Some pictures? Yes.

Some trees die...

Something about your political philosophy. What do you say?

Sorry, carry on.

Sorry, sir.

Sorry.

Sounds as if we need a lot of gardening here.

Spring and summer? Yes.

Stay in your seat. Yes, ma 'am.

Straight out? Yes, sir.

Stuffed with rice pudding between the ears.

Stupid? Hey, Mumbly, come back.

Such as, what is the exact relationship between yourself and the

Superior to that of the newspapers?

Suppose I were to tell you that, from now on, you were Pete Montana.

Sure, try again. Where? There's nothing.

Take care of her.

Telephone call?

Tell Eve...

Tell her to come down. I'm gonna put in a CVP line.

Tell me, Mr. Gardiner...

Tell me, would you have any ideas on that subject?

Tell me...

Than all those that have seen theater plays in the last 40 years?

Thank you for taking time out with a dying man.

Thank you very much. Certainly. Glad to be of help.

Thank you, Ben.

Thank you, Ben. Thank you.

Thank you, Eve.

Thank you, Jim.

Thank you, Mr. Gardiner.

Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you.

Thank you. You're very welcome.

Thank you. I'm very thirsty.

Thank you. May I watch television, please?

Thank you. Yes.

Thanks very much.

That after a period of decline, a time of growth would naturally follow.

That is exactly why I agree with Ben's final wishes.

That is very interesting, indeed, but what about the bad seasons?

That old man is lying up there dead as hell...

That the garden needs a lot of care.

That way, he can get around by himself.

That you were to take over his territory in addition to your own.

That you're inclined to agree with his view of the economy.

That'll save a lot of unnecessary fuss and it'll be that much more pleasant for you.

That's a great talent, my boy.

That's a nice car. Do you drive it, Mr. Chance?

That's a very good idea, Ben.

That's a very nice name.

That's a very small room.

That's for you.

That's good news, my boy.

That's good.

That's one of the things I admire about you, your admirable balance.

That's precisely what we lack on Capitol Hill.

That's right, Mr. President.

That's the main thing.

That's the oxygen.

That's what Thomas asked me.

That's where I'm going, too damn soon.

That's where Joe fixed the wall.

The bone marrow doesn't supply enough red blood cells.

The Bureau has some data, sir, but it's not pertinent.

The businessman today is at the mercy of kid lawyers from the SEC.

The entire country.

The garden is a healthy one, Thomas.

The garden that I left was such a place.

The gardener? Yes.

The interesting thing about them, is that they're two.

The law firm handling the estate.

The New York Times spoke of your "peculiar brand of optimism."

The old man died and Louise left.

The old man's dead.

The people of this country need to be awakened.

The President compared the economy of this country to a garden and he stated

The President warmly encouraged future trade relations...

The safe is in Mr. Jennings' bedroom. That'll be stop number one.

The tailor went out of business in 1933 and later...

The Vice President was scheduled, but he had to cancel.

The way things are going, they'll probably legislate the medical profession...

Then he said...

Then I...

Then the old man started giving me television sets.

Then you really are a gardener?

Then you wish to handle this matter through your attorneys?

There ain't none of us ever been invited up to eat at the Big Boy's dump.

There are now 16 countries investigating the man.

There is much to be done during the winter.

There is no mention of a gardener.

There is no place left to look. Try again.

There will be growth in the spring.

There're lots of animals in the barnyard. Want to go with the rooster to see them?

There's no apparent damage to the bone. But to be sure, we'll do an x ray.

There's no need for a claim.

There's no need for the hospital. A doctor should look at that.

There's no telling what he could have been involved in.

There's...

These situations can be so trying.

They are such a wonderful couple.

They asked if you would be interested.

They can keep me comfortable.

They fit me very well, don't they? Yes.

They have not been lucky in the Midwest, as soon as they dig out...

They looked like cards.

They would look at them very carefully. I'll show you another one.

They're eager...

They've been harassed long enough by...

This information goes back a day and a half.

This is a time to think of life.

This is inside dope and if it gets out, it'll be just too bad for somebody.

This is just another season in the garden, so to speak.

This is just like television, only you can see much further.

This is Miss Annie Lawson. Mr. Chauncey Gardiner.

This is terrible, sir. I hope you're not badly injured.

This man carries no identification.

This morning, the President met in the Oval Office with...

This never happened when you were a senator.

This next exercise is trying to

This one has a remote control.

This visit has been most enlightening. Yes, it has.

This way.

This way. Thank you.

This won't hurt at all.

Thomas Franklin. He's an attorney.

Thomas? You can pull your trousers up now.

To become blinded to the needs of our government,

To keep this incident with Mr. Gardiner strictly to yourselves.

To know just what newspapers you do read.

To play around with temporary measures at a time like this.

To quote Mr. Gardiner, a most intuitive man:

Tomorrow night...

Transferred into your account.

Try again.

TV changer, man.

Until they placed the chopsticks around the table. If the Chinese were upset...

Until this time, he hasn't said anything that could be held against him.

Up and around this morning, are you? I like to walk, Ben.

Up yours. You try again. I quit.

Use any agencies that are necessary to get a detailed history of Chauncey Gardiner.

Very nice meeting you. And you.

Very well, Mr. Chance, I have no alternative but to inform you...

Vladimir Skrapinov.

W 4.

Walk? Well, yes, hell yes. Walk.

Watch...

Water it.

We are not so far from each other.

We could go upstairs right now.

We don't have an inkling of his past.

We don't want them snatched out from under us, am I right?

We found no information... It's not what I requested.

We glance at things, we watch television.

We have 20,000 rose bushes.

We have an additional guest with us today, Mr. Chauncey Gardiner.

We have no material on him.

We have tennis elbow, jogger's knee, and simmer's...

We need a very good gardener.

We often visit their island.

We thought we heard something.

We will need some proof of your having resided here, Mr. Chance.

We'll fix up one of Ben's for you. Sophie insists on black tie.

We'll go right on home.

We're well aware of that, sir...

We've been very lucky, though. Every time it snows...

Welcome to Rand Memorial Hospital.

Well, I must be going.

Well, Mr. Gardiner, I'm a man who appreciates a frank discussion.

Well, Mr. President, they don't quite know...

Well, then.

Well, where is it?

Well, yes, sir. But Mr. Rand is ill, so I'm taking the liberty of asking you.

Well...

Well... I'll go and tell Eve about Ben.

Were you very close to Louise?

What a morning.

What about Chauncey Gardiner?

What about Lawson? He's charismatic, exciting.

What about medical records?

What about the third question?

What are your plans now, Mr. Gardiner?

What did I tell you? That's exactly what I mean.

What do the boys around Intelligence feel?

What do we know of the man? Absolutely nothing.

What do you mean, he's got no background? That's impossible.

What do you mean, you like to watch?

What is facing west? The bed.

What is it about his background that they're trying to cover up?

What is it?

What is it? Doctor.

What sort of gardener would you be, Mr. Gardiner?

What was he doing? And why?

What was the message, Mr. Gardiner?

What was up his sleeve when he pulled that stunt with us?

What was your reaction to that? I do not know what it means.

What we'd like to know are some facts.

What you got?

What you're saying, Ben, is that...

What? Say that again.

What's the matter?

What's wrong?

When I first got sick...

When they unwrapped the chopsticks to be used by the Chinese guests...

Where is he? There or here?

Where the hell is he?

Which view?

Who can see it through these periods of crisis?

Who knows? Maybe the government had something to do with it.

Who sent you here, boy?

Who's Thomas?

Why don't you ask this Robinson for dinner?

Why don't you come to our house and we could take care of you there?

Why don't you listen to your friend Chauncey?

Why is the bed like this?

Why, hello.

Why, I... I don't think so.

Why, yes. Certainly.

Why?

Will he be okay? He'll be fine.

Will you be leaving now, Robert?

Will you give me a tour? Gladly.

Will you hold a minute, please?

Will you shake on it?

Wilson, will you take Mr. Gardiner to the third floor guest suite?

With the deceased.

With who? Mr. Jennings.

Working so intimately with the President, and yet...

Would you be seated? Yes, I will.

Would you care for a drink?

Would you care to comment

Would you like a car, sir?

Wow, you're rather lit up tonight, aren't you?

X ray?

Yeah, fine.

Yeah, it's a damn shame.

Yeah, skip the levity.

Yeah, we got you, Ben.

Yeah? I don't understand why he was in Jennings' house.

Yes, Ben?

Yes, Ben.

Yes, Doctor. Thank you.

Yes, he's there.

Yes, I agree. Except he's so boring. What about Max?

Yes, I know, Robert.

Yes, I liked Louise very much.

Yes, I lost my remote control.

Yes, I would like a car.

Yes, I'm here.

Yes, I've been here all my life.

Yes, I've heard about that. Could you show us something with your address?

Yes, in a day or two.

Yes, indeed, Chauncey, a productive businessman...

Yes, it is surprising.

Yes, Louise. It looks like it's going to snow.

Yes, ma 'am.

Yes, ma'am.

Yes, of course.

Yes, please. I'm very hungry, Louise.

Yes, sir, all you got to be is white in America...

Yes, sir, I guess that's true. Smallest room in the house.

Yes, sir?

Yes, sir.

Yes, sir. I'll report it right away.

Yes, so am I, my boy.

Yes, some plants

Yes, Thomas, I understand.

Yes, you'll be fine, Eve.

Yes? Yes.

Yes.

Yes. I remember Joe.

Yes. I'm glad he came, Ben.

Yes. I've been on television.

Yes. It was very nice meeting...

Yes. Louise will bring me my lunch.

Yes. Right out of existence.

Yes. Sidney Courtney, the financial editor of the Washington Post.

Yes. The show will be taped, and then shown at 10:00...

Yes. Well, you have a nice chat.

Yes. Yes.

You ain't going to do a young one any good.

You and Eve should create quite a stir.

You can call me Ray, or you can call me Jay...

You caught me off guard there, I must admit.

You do, do you? Yes.

You do?

You don't mind my being here like...

You had the Russian ambassador eating right out of your hand. You know that?

You have a very handsome wardrobe.

You have me, I'm here.

You hear that?

You know me.

You know, Chauncey,

You know, Chauncey...

You know, he's very...

You know, I've never met anyone like you in Washington before.

You know, Sally...

You know...

You lifted Ben's spirits tonight to such an extent, do you know that?

You like to watch?

You look fine, boss.

You look great, boss.

You look much better today, Ben.

You may find, my friend, that we are not so far from each other.

You mean your business was shut down?

You mean...

You mentioned also that Louise had gone, also.

You must be very ill.

You must sit with us, my friends. We have much to discuss.

You must've been very close to him.

You ought to find yourself a lady, Chance.

You say he showed you his garden.

You see? This is my bed.

You seem to be a truly peaceful man.

You seem to be an exception, Chauncey.

You set me free, Chauncey.

You should ask Mr. Rand that.

You tell that asshole, if he got something to tell me...

You think you're well enough for dinner, Ben?

You uncoil my wants...

You wait right here. I'll go get Warren.

You were romantically involved with or maybe a sister.

You wouldn't think of driving without your rear view mirror...

You'll be very pleased to know that your

You'll have to move out by, let's say, noon tomorrow.

You'll join us for dinner, of course.

You're always going to be a little boy, ain't you?

You're described as one of the architects of the President's speech last night.

You're fond of him, too, aren't you?

You're going to need somebody.

You're meeting the President, aren't you? Yes.

You're so cool and detached.

You're very nice, too.

You're welcome.

You've become quite a close friend of Eve's, haven't you...

You've got your health.

You've never been in a car?

Young plants do much better if a person helps them.

Your anonymity is certainly likely to be a thing of the past from now on.

Your friend's out here. Friends? I have no friends.

Your house?

Your limousine, sir.

Your visit has helped to raise my spirits.

Zilch.

Chauncey,

Few men in public life have the courage not to read the newspapers.

Fine.

He's a close friend and advisor of Benjamin Rand.

He's too exciting, I'm afraid. If they start bringing up things...

Hello, Mr. Gardiner.

I like to watch the young plants grow.

I realize this might be a difficult question for you to answer, but...

I see. Would you be willing to sign a paper to that effect?

In my office.

It's not good, Ben.

Miss Davies. ...vocal characteristics.

Mr. President, I want you to meet my very dear friend, Mr. Chauncey Gardiner.

No, I won't have any of that.

Nurse Teresa did Ben's make up. Oh, really?

Sorry to persist, sir, but it would be of great interest to me

Thank you. ...in a special viewer.

Thought you might need this about now. It gets pretty hot underneath these lights.

We certainly do.

We have 60,000 tulip bulbs up there, Chauncey.

When I was younger, I had thoughts of public office.

Would you care to take it, sir?

Yes, I guess that's true.

Yes. That bastard means it.

Yes... Yes.

...a brick mason, who did some repairs to a wall.

...a gardener.

...a lot of love, things grow.

...a young person's disease.

...all is well.

...all sorts of indecencies.

...and for the community.

...and going at this slowly. Please, nobody leaping up.

...and he's cold as a fish.

...and his chest crushed. He's a paraplegic.

...and I know how difficult it is to be straightforward.

...and I'll say right now he never learned to read and write.

...and I'm about to die of a young person's disease.

...and it just don't make any difference to you.

...and it's momentary, it usually hits at night.

...and others grow better in the shade.

...and purged.

...and showed me pictures from a funny little book.

...and these transfusions.

...and yet some people still drive without a "FuzzBuster".

...anger tends to block out rationality, for a while.

...another storm hits and there's one out west that might be in soon.

...as well as the times when we pick the fruit.

...as well as the well being of our middle class.

...as you can see, one of the worst in that city's history.

...at this time?

...before Mr. Gardiner appeared at the Rands'.

...but he's to be there...

...but I thought it would be good, while our friends are carrying Ben to his...

...but I will try to remember it.

...but then we have...

...but they still liked to look at interesting pictures.

...but we're upset by the seasons of our economy.

...Chance?

...covered him up. Pulled a sheet over his head.

...desire flows within me.

...destroyed Gardiner's files. What? Why?

...do it.

...do you feel that we have...

...do you, by any chance, enjoy Krylov's fables?

...fall and winter.

...flinty soil...

...for everything...

...for me to leave you.

...for me to say goodnight to you.

...for new trees and new flowers...

...for once.

...for the horn of Gabriel.

...foreign dignitaries and cultural exchange students from the Republic of China.

...from sleeping on a too soft mattress.

...given the matter a good deal of consideration for some time.

...going to surrender the...

...got his master's degree and now looks to the future.

...has been much easier for me.

...have 30,000 shares of Standard

...have you ever had sex with a man?

...he made a fool out of me.

...horn of plenty...

...I almost forgot. Johanna is starting to think something's going on.

...I didn't really believe him, of course, but why the act?

...I find there's so much to assimilate it can become quite muddling.

...I had this entire room glassed in...

...I was able to contribute more as a private citizen.

...I'm going to talk to you, but you're not going to hear a word I say, see?

...I'm sure someone will have the time.

...I've heard in a very long time.

...if you change your mind about signing.

...if you would attend in my place, and escort Eve.

...in 1928.

...in cooperation with leading orthopedic surgeons for no morning backache...

...in the garden.

...in your situation.

...in your words, a very good gardener in office...

...inflation, increased taxation...

...intense.

...is a laborer in the vineyard.

...is holding a reception for the Soviet ambassador.

...is that I'm a little shy.

...is that this is usually...

...is that we welcome the inevitable...

...is the room upstairs.

...it dissolves the desire.

...Krylovian about you.

...last resting place...

...lie still.

...me, you like to watch me...

...not to misuse that power.

...of all kinds.

...of our basic freedoms...

...on my own two feet.

...opened up at the slightest touch.

...our one and only chance is Chauncey Gardiner.

...our symbol of peace and freedom throughout the world.

...over her.

...quite a bit older than I am.

...right out of existence.

...Senator Rowley's widow...

...snow that fell over the whole weekend, and the blizzard is one of the worst...

...so don't feel that you have to rush into a decision.

...so much left to do.

...so they could pump in some extra oxygen.

...so we could keep an eye on it?

...somehow managing to remain relatively unknown.

...sort of explore and with any explorer, go slowly.

...temporary incentives?

...that I can trust myself with you.

...that I trust.

...that I was to get my white ass out of there quick or he'd cut it.

...that is really a downer. And, Christ...

...that the only one capable of pulling this off...

...that this house is now closed.

...that you're staying with us and how dreadful I feel about your leg.

...the packages were clearly stamped "Made in Taiwan."

...the President.

...the thought of dying...

...there are thousands of businessmen, large and small...

...there's something about him...

...this?

...to get his ass down here himself.

...to get whatever you want.

...to grow strong.

...to keep myself open to the voice of the people.

...to make it productive...

...to read from his quotes.

...took his own life.

...very eager, to meet you.

...was the highest they've ever had.

...wealth provided me with considerable influence.

...were made by a New York tailor, handmade...

...which isn't serious, but could cause trouble later on.

...with Eve.

...with the labor of his own hands.

...with the sweat of his own brow.

...working as a gardener.

...works on...

...would be an ex FBI man.

...would it be possible for you to stay here for a day or two...

...you don't play games with words...

...you don't think I should take the chance. Absolutely not.

...you're planning to make against the deceased's estate.

'Morning, gentlemen. Good morning, Mr. President.

'Morning, Mr. Perkins. 'Morning, Mr. Riff.

"...and exit naked...

"...and that no accountant can audit life in our favor."

"...from no Western Union messenger.

"...I have suppressed bizarre thoughts: Could I beat him in a foot race?

"...I must admit that they have no use for me, either.

"...if he got something to tell me...

"...is a state of mind."

"...kept us apart."

"...more often...

"...no patience whatsoever.

"...than I have heard the word 'friend'.

"...that I ain't taking no jive...

"...that I ain't taking no jive..."

"...that our philosophies...

"...that the Lord fashioned us from his own image.

"...the economic prospects are undoubtedly sunny."

"...there are other rewards for wealth.

"...thinking about extreme poverty.

"...to get his ass down here himself."

"...trembled a lot...

"...was surrounded by little men who forgot that we enter naked...

"...Western Union manager."

"...will soon be realized.

"A well deserved rest.

"Ain't taking no jive from no...

"All the aims I have pursued...

"As long as the roots of industry remain firmly planted in the national soil...

"But I suppose...

"But if I am to be honest with myself...

"Could I throw a ball further than he?

"During these conferences...

"I do not regret having political differences with men that I respect.

"I do regret, however...

"I have heard the word 'sir'...

"I have met with kings.

"I have no use for those on welfare...

"I have spent many sleepless nights...

"I've lived a lot...

"It's a Sealy Posturepedic morning"

"Life...

"Now, get this, honky.

"Now, get this, honky..."

"Sealy Posturepedic morning"

"Security.

"That I ain't taking no jive...

"That's when I decided to manufacture mirrors.

"Tranquility.

"When I was a boy, I was told...

"Yes. You tell that asshole..."

"You go tell Raphael...

"You tell that asshole if he..."

"You tell that asshole...

Being There (1979)
Being There is a remarkable film released in 1979, directed by Hal Ashby. Starring the legendary Peter Sellers in one of his most memorable performances, the movie tells the story of Chance, a simple-minded gardener whose life takes an unexpected turn when he is mistaken for a wise and influential political advisor. As Chance navigates his newfound role in high society, he unintentionally becomes a source of inspiration and guidance to powerful individuals, all while maintaining his innocent and childlike nature. Being There is a beautifully crafted film that cleverly explores themes of identity, perception, and the power of simplicity. It showcases Sellers' incredible talent and range as an actor, leaving a lasting impact on viewers. If you are interested in experiencing the sounds and emotions of Being There, you can play and download them here.
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