Calamari Union (1985)

Kari Heiskanen: Frank

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Quotes 

• [first lines] 

  Frank : Gentlemen! I don't want to tire you and especially myself by going through those many reasons which make life completely impossible in this part of the city. We all know the circumstances forced on us in our early years: crowded homes, ignorance and hunger. Not to mention the bad air conditioning in the busses with their irregular timetables. In this part of the city there are more hills than anywhere else in the world. Loose-running kids and dogs make it impossible to move in the streets. We have to hide in the back alleys like lepers. We are humiliated and spat on as if we weren't free members of a proud nation. Besides, an evil old woman kicked me in the shin one day only because I opened my mouth in the wrong place. I'm not a dog. I know that you can also respect yourselves slightly if necessary. That's why we are here today: no more crying, it's time to leave. The decision is not easy. Many of us have strong emotional ties that have bound us with this part of the city. Many must sacrifice their childhood, their memories and their families. "The branch of a rotten tree must seek a healthier trunk." We have all heard our grandparents and our parents talk about Eira, a place on the other side of the city. It's an area where the streets are wide and the air is smooth and fresh. That is our destination tonight. Before we move on to practical matters I want to be certain that everyone realizes the dangers and responsibilities of our journey. The floor is all yours, Frank.

  Frank : Thank you Frank. I have organized us transport to the extreme centre of the city. After that it's every man for himself. Some will take the southern, others the northern route some will attempt a break straight through the lines. As we are all poor we shall now share the funds our society has inherited.