the duke of reichstadt v1 by dean drinkel and romain ...littlenapoleonfilms.com/dean/son v1.pdf ·...

The Duke of Reichstadt v1

By

Dean Drinkel and Romain Collier

Original screenplay based on the life of Napoleon’s son

FADE IN:

1 EXT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, COURTYARD - NIGHT

Several black-clad ATTENDANTS RUSH through the courtyard.

They hold BURNING torches. It is SNOWING.

O/S A wooden staff is being BASHED on the ground.

2 EXT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, FRENCH GARDEN - NIGHT

The Attendants enter the garden. They approach a MAZE.

FRANZ (V.O.)

To be, or not to be: that is the

question; Whether ’tis nobler in

the mind to suffer the slings and

arrows of outrageous fortune, or

to take arms against a sea of

troubles, And by opposing end

them?

They enter the Maze.

3 EXT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, MAZE - NIGHT

As the Attendants RUN through the Maze various CLOWNS,

CIRCUS FOLK, FIRE-EATERS RUSH past them.

FRANZ (V.O.)

To die: to sleep; No more; and by

a sleep to say we end the

heart-ache and the thousand

natural shocks that flesh is heir

to, ’tis a consummation devoutly

to be wish’d. To die, to sleep;

to sleep: perchance to dream: ay,

there’s the rub;

The snow begins to fall HEAVILY.


The Attendants reach the centre of the maze. They bow and

stand in a box formation, facing each other. Lamps hang on

stakes nearby.

FRANZ (V.O.)

For in that sleep of death what

dreams may come when we have

shuffled off this mortal coil,

must give us pause: there’s the

respect that makes calamity of so

long life;

2.

The Attendants hold the torches above their heads.


The lamps are LIT, illuminating a small stage. Standing

there is FRANZ. He wears a black costume; his face covered

by a white skull-mask. Slowly, he removes the mask. He is

pale, sweating. His hand shakes. He walks to the front of

the stage. He looks out and frowns.


The audience of ROYAL FAMILY MEMBERS, DIGNITARIES and HIGH

SOCIETY watch on - including: EMPEROR FRANCIS II, EMPRESS

KAROLINE, ARCHDUCHESS SOPHIE, COUNT DIETRICHSTEIN,

CHANCELLOR METTERNICH, MAURICE ESTERHAZY, LORD and LADY

COWLEY. All dressed as if attending a MASQUERADE.

FRANZ

(walking to the left side of

the stage)

The undiscover’d country from

whose bourn no traveller returns,

puzzles the will and makes us

rather bear those ills we have

than fly to others that we know

not of?

He walks to the right side of the stage.


Franz stops, there in the distance, watching him is

NAPOLEON.

FRANZ

Thu...thus conscience does make

cowards of us all; and thus the

native hue of resolution is

sicklied o’er with the pale cast

of thought.

(he steps down off the

stage)

And enterprises of great pith and

moment with this regard their

currents turn awry, and lose the

name of action. Soft you now!

Franz falls to his knees.

3.


The Royal Family, Dignitaries etc begin to APPLAUD. Franz

raises his head, he LAUGHS MANICALLY; tears fall. Napoleon

turns and walks away, heading back into the maze.

9 INT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, GREAT GALLERY - NIGHT

Franz RUSHES through the doors, totally EXHAUSTED. He

looks around at the various Dignitaries.

A STRING QUARTET is PLAYING JOHANN STRAUSS: THE EMPEROR

WALTZ.

Several VALETS give out canapés, champagne to the Guests.

FRANZ

(whispering)

Father? I saw you...

NAPOLEON (O/S)

My hour is almost come. When I to

sulph’rous and tormenting

flames...

FRANZ

(whispering)

Father, show yourself, I beg

thee.

NAPOLEON (O/S)

Pity me not, but lend thy serious

hearing to what I shall unfold.

FRANZ

(whispering)

Where are you?

NAPOLEON (O/S)

I am thy father’s spirit, Doom’d

for a certain time to walk the

night...

FRANZ

(whispering)

Please, if it is truly you:

reveal yourself to me.

Franz RUSHES through the Dignitaries, they stare on

confused.

NAPOLEON (O/S)

Do not forget. This visitation is

but to whet thy almost blunted

purpose.

4.

FRANZ

(whispering)

I don’t...I don’t

understand...father?!

A hand REACHES for Franz, touches his shoulder.


Franz spins around.

ESTERHAZY (O/S)

Father? What are you talking

about?

FRANZ

(confused)

Esterhazy? Maurice, my apologies.

I thought you...

Franz takes out a handkerchief, wipes his face.

ESTERHAZY

Your performance outside

was...mesmerising.

FRANZ

(distracted)

Thank you...listen...did you see

someone...

ESTERHAZY

I think you were insane to

attempt such a speech

however...we all know how unwell

you have been. I can’t believe

you’re even up and about. Come,

let’s walk back to your

apartments.

FRANZ

(distracted)

Not yet. I need to talk to you

about something...someone in the

maze...now here...it wasn’t my

imagination, I know it wasn’t...

NAPOLEON (O/S)

So art thou to revenge, when thou

shalt hear.

FRANZ

Did you hear that? Did you hear

him?

Franz RUSHES away, Esterhazy watches on CONFUSED.

5.


Franz PUSHES his way to the middle of the Gallery.

FRANZ

There! There you are!

MAJOR ANTON PROKESCH BLOCKS his way. He is joined by

Sophie.

PROKESCH

Indeed, here I am! My apologies I

missed the earlier festivities,

the Archduchess was...

FRANZ

(confused)

Never around when you’re needed

and when you’re not...

SOPHIE

Don’t be so rude! Major Prokesch

has only just returned to Vienna.

PROKESCH

(holding out his hand)

It is good to see you, Franz. I

bring news from...

Franz stares past Prokesch as he SCANS the crowd.

FRANZ

You’ve forgotten court etiquette

already Major? You should address

me as Your Highness at the very

least...am I not a Duke? Am I not

a Prince?

SOPHIE

For goodness sake...the Major is

your friend...this was a mistake,

you shouldn’t be out...

FRANZ

(focusing)

Friend you say? Friend?!

Franz starts to LAUGH. Several guests stare at him.


At the far end of the Gallery, in their thrones, Francis

and Karoline sit. Karoline WHISPERS into Francis’ ear.

They watch as Prokesch reaches out to touch Franz.

6.


Metternich stands with Lord Cowley - he stares as Franz

THROWS his arms about in ANGER. He STUMBLES into a Valet

who DROPS a tray of glasses. They SMASH. Metternich shakes

his head.


Metternich approaches Franz - they appear to ARGUE.


Francis stands up - he watches an ALTERCATION between

Franz and Metternich. Franz makes a grab for Metternich.

The String Quartet STOPS playing. The Gallery falls

SILENT. Francis SIGNALS to two IMPERIAL GUARDS.


The Guards approach Franz.

FRANZ

(to Metternich)

I should have known you would

have something to do with this...

METTERNICH

I’m sorry I don’t follow...

FRANZ

(laughing)

It was you wasn’t it?! You’re the

one who is trying to drive me

mad...why didn’t I see it? You

arranged for someone to

masquerade as my father - very

clever, very clever! It makes

perfect sense now. There I was

thinking I’d seen a ghost and all

the time it was your deception...

METTERNICH

A ghost? Your father? Why would

I...why would anyone, be as

insensitive as that?


Lord Cowley turns to his wife.

7.

LORD COWLEY

It seems tonight’s entertainment

still continues. There is

something seriously wrong with

the Duke.

LADY COWLEY

And after he showed so much

promise...I appreciate he’s been

unwell but even so...

They watch as Franz WAVES his arms and the Guards HOLD

him.


Everyone in the Gallery stands to one side and bows as

Francis approaches. Metternich SIGNALS to two Valets to

clean away the broken glass.


Esterhazy watches from afar. Francis TALKS to Franz.

Esterhazy sees Metternich staring at him who SIGNALS that

he should keep his eyes on Franz.


Francis hands Sophie a handkerchief. He gently PATS her on

the shoulder, smiles at her and turns to leave.

FRANZ

Don’t turn your back on me!

FRANCIS

(bewildered)

Did you admonish the Emperor?

Francis turns around.


Metternich steps forward, the Guards hold Franz.

METTERNICH

Your Majesty, excuse the Duke, he

is quite fatigued. His malady is

more serious than our physicians

realised. We will ensure he

retires at once...

8.

FRANZ

(to Metternich)

Did I ask you to apologise for

me?

(to Francis)

Grandfather, why is somebody

impersonating my father?! I do

not find humour in that? Am I

being driven into the arms of

madness...

FRANCIS

STOP! Who would do such a thing?

You are mistaken, we...I have had

quite enough this evening.

FRANZ

My eyes did not deceive me!

Francis walks away slightly, he looks around him. He

encourages everyone else to do the same.

FRANCIS

We do not see your father or in

fact anyone pretending to be him

- which would be both insulting

and foolhardy.

He SIGNALS for the Guards to release Franz.


Franz walks around the Gallery, looking at the faces of

the other Guests. He is quickly out of breath.

FRANCIS

Bonaparte! I demand that you step

out of the shadows and reveal

yourself.

There is silence in the Gallery for several BEATS.

FRANCIS

No. Just as we thought.

FRANZ

But I beg you...

FRANCIS

(waving his comment away)

Major, escort the Duke to his

apartments. Now.

PROKESCH

As you command, Your Majesty.

9.

Franz goes to speak but Francis SIGNALS and the String

Quartet begins to PLAY JOHANN STRAUSS: THE EMPEROR WALTZ.


Karoline joins Francis and they begin to DANCE. Taking

this as their cue, the other Dignitaries also start

DANCING.

Prokesch takes Franz’s arm and they head towards the

doors. The Guards follow.

Esterhazy slowly walks behind them all, unseen.

Metternich escorts Sophie away.

24 INT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, HALL OF MIRRORS - NIGHT

The door opens SLIGHTLY, Esterhazy watches as Prokesch

holds Franz TIGHTLY. There is blood and vomit everywhere.

PROKESCH

Duke...Franz!

They fall to the floor. Prokesch is SOBBING, he wipes the

blood, the snot, the vomit from Franz’s face. The Guards

approach, careful not to slip in all the blood.

PROKESCH

(crying)

Please...get Malfatti, he’s

dying.

Esterhazy steps back through the door, closes it behind

him.

LEGEND: PARIS, 2nd DECEMBER 1852

25 EXT. CHAMP DE MARS - DAY

Several MARQUEES have been erected, covered in flags,

bunting and other decorations. Food and drink are being

sold, VARIOUS MUSICIANS can be heard. Hot air balloons are

floating in the sky. MEN, WOMEN and CHILDREN walk through

the marquees taking in the sights. It is a CELEBRATION.

26 INT. CHAMP DE MARS, MARQUEE - DAY

A hand PULLS BACK the canvas, an OLD MAN steps inside. It

is dark except for several lit candles. There are bales of

straw which MEN / WOMEN / CHILDREN sit on or stand nearby.

At the far end of the marquee there is a small

toy-theatre. The PUPPET-MASTER stands above it. The puppet

10.

of Franz is lying down. It is bloody. The Men / Women /

Children mildly APPLAUD as the curtains of the theatre are

drawn closed.

BRICE (a dwarf), dressed as Napoleon, turns the handle of

his music-box and MATTEO CARCASSI: Op. 59 No. 45 begins to

play.


The Old Man watches as GEORGES stands up. He is UNSTEADY

on his feet; he takes a large sip from a metal tankard. He

is dressed in an old and tatty soldier’s uniform.

GEORGES

(drunk)

Woah there, just hold your

horses, hold on a moment.

He STUMBLES through the crowd, stands in front of the

theatre. Georges motions for Everyone to stop CLAPPING.

Brice stops TURNING his music box.


The Puppet-Master comes from behind his theatre.

PUPPET-MASTER

(stepping away, holding his

nose)

What do you...oh, you are drunk.

GEORGES

(slurring)

I’m a veteran! Am I not entitled

to have one or two drinks? I’ve

shed blood and tears for this

country.

He turns towards the other Men and Women, some start

CHEERING.

PUPPET-MASTER

I’m sure we are all grateful.

What do you want?

Georges picks up some of the puppets.

GEORGES

(slurring)

What the hell was that?

PUPPET-MASTER

(snatching back the puppets)

What the hell was what?

11.

GEORGES

(slurring)

That so-called show! It was

nonsense. We paid good money to

be entertained and I’ll wager I’m

not the only one who is totally

confused.

(BEAT - as he takes another

sip from his tankard)

What I suggest...what I DEMAND is

that you do it again...from the

beginning and slower...us old’uns

don’t hear so well anymore.

PUPPET-MASTER

Again? No...don’t you know what

today is?

Georges walks away but then stops, returns, he’s extremely

UNSTEADY. He stands very close to the Puppet-Master, PRODS

him in the chest.

GEORGES

(slurring)

You have a choice: another show

or...our money back.

PUPPET-MASTER

No need for threatening

behaviour. Fine. We might have

time for a short one, but I do

need some...

GEORGES

(slurring)

We’re not going to give you one

more sou - not when we didn’t get

our money’s worth the first time.

Georges BELCHES. Some People LAUGH, some GROAN.

PUPPET-MASTER

(crossing his arms)

Is that so?

GEORGES

(slurring)

We won’t let you or your dwarf go

until you do!

Brice looks PANICKED.

PUPPET-MASTER

I’m a professional, not a

prisoner and...

Something HITS his chest. He bends down, picks up a gold

coin.

12.

OLD MAN (O/S)

I trust that will be sufficient.

GEORGES

(slurring)

Ah, someone with more money than

sense.

The Puppet-Master studies the coin, it is AUSTRIAN.

PUPPET-MASTER

Who threw that?

GEORGES

(slurring)

Who cares? Now get on or shall we

call the authorities?

PUPPET-MASTER

Authorities?! All you had to do

was ask politely.

As he walks back behind the toy theatre he THROWS the coin

to Brice who puts it in his music box - he starts to TURN

the handle, MATTEO CARCASSI: Op. 59 No. 45 begins again.

The people CHEER. Georges takes a drunken bow and returns

to his bale, he is SLAPPED on the back when he sits.

PUPPET-MASTER

(mildly annoyed)

Well, if we are all ready?! Yes?

Good...so Lords and Ladies,

Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and

Girls...once AGAIN...I present to

you the tragic tale of Napoléon

François Charles Joseph

Bonaparte...

As he talks he begins to MANIPULATE various puppets.

O/S The SOUND of CANNON being SHOT.

SFX / PUPPET ANIMATION SEQUENCE

The SOUND of CANNON BEING SHOT. At a window in the

Tuileries Palace baby Franz is held aloft by Napoleon to

the adoring and cheering crowd below. The cannon stops

once it has been fired twenty-two times.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/O)

Imperial Prince to a glorious

father,

Born was he in a room of purple velvet.

13.

Napoleon hands baby Franz to Madame de Montesquiou. He

sits at a desk surrounded by his family, Marshals and

Ministers. With a broad smile upon his face he signs a

piece of paper with a flourish.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/O)

King of Rome was called this

royal baby.

The SOUND OF BELLS being RUNG. In a packed Notre Dame

Cathedral, Napoleon makes his way to the font. Cardinal

Fesch holds Franz and starts baptising him, Napoleon leans

over and does it himself. Metternich can be seen amongst

the many people inside. There is CHEERING.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/O)

Baptized in the Cathedral of

Notre Dame, surrounded by Kings,

Queens, Royal Dignitaries. God

looked on at His new Isaac and

Abraham but in this Eden, snakes

slithered patiently.

In the Tuileries gardens, Napoleon laughs and plays with

Franz. He kisses and tickles him. It is a bright, sunny

day. He lifts the boy up to the sky.

Napoleon lowers the boy, it is raining. He is sitting on

his horse. He kisses Franz, hands him over to Montesquiou,

waves to Marie-Louise then he and his Grand Armée march

away.

They march out of Paris across Europe, towards Moscow.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/O)

Strong from his many victories,

Napoleon desired an empire vast,

across Europe his sights were set

on the Great Russian Bear.

Moscow: a gift to his son he

wanted to give. But in that icy

desert, famine ruled, not wheat.

It pours with snow. Napoleon and his Grand Armée march

from Moscow defeated, dead bodies, both horses and men,

lie scattered on the ground. Moscow is in flames.

In the Palace of Fontainebleau, Napoleon sits a desk

surrounded by several battle weary Officers. He is given a

piece of paper to sign. In the distance there is JEERING.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/O)

The war lost and the people of

France revolting,from his throne

the Emperor Napoleon fell. His

only choice abdication so to his

son, Napoleon Two, the crown of

France was given.

14.

In Talleyrand’s house - Ministers gather around a table.

They hold the paper which Napoleon signed. A door opens

and Emperor Alexander of Russia enters with Marshal

Marmont and Talleyrand. Alexander is given the paper; he

laughs and tears it up. On the wall, a portrait of

Napoleon is taken down and is replaced by one of Louis.

Outside it is raining.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/O)

From the bushes the snakes

hissed, whistled, conspired. And

two weeks later, the child ceased

to rule.

In the darkness and pouring rain, Napoleon and a small

entourage boards a ship bound for Elbe.

At night, in the rain, Marie-Louise and Franz are bundled

into a carriage, it leaves the Tuileries and heads out of

Paris.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/O)

To Blois, mother and child ran

without a sound. Though to

Austria, her heart desired and

begged. But that was now the

child’s fervent enemy. So in

France, the Empress and King

remained.

When they arrive the sun is shining.

Napoleon arrives back on French soil. He climbs upon a

donkey and begins to ride towards Paris. Crowds begin to

form behind him. It is a bright sunny day.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/O)

And to France the Emperor

returned from exile...

Napoleon arrives in the Tuileries. He is surrounded by

Ministers / Marshals and lots of CHEERING people. Inside,

he leans down and from the carpet he pulls away a Bourbon

Fleur-de-Lys, revealing a bee underneath. Everyone

APPLAUDS. On the wall a woman takes down a portrait of

Louis and replaces it with one of Napoleon.

Napoleon and his Grand Armée march into battle, surrounded

by CHEERING people.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/O)

...but after one hundred days and

Waterloo,came the end of the

Great Napoleon’s rule.

In his tent, a battle-weary Napoleon (with only a handful

of Officers surrounding him) signs a piece of paper -

outside a storm is RAGING.

15.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/O)

A second time, the crown was

given to his son.

In Paris, a meeting of all important people / ministers

etc sit around a table. Napoleon’s signed paper already

lies in pieces on the floor. On the wall behind them the

portrait of Napoleon has been taken down and is replaced

by Louis.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/O)

Though for Ministers Fouché and

Tallyrand,allegiances were once

again for the Bourbons and Louis

The Eighteenth returned as

Monarch.

In Vienna, Metternich stands at the window and with

Francis II, watch the carriage bearing Marie-Louise and

Franz arrive. People are CHEERING. Franz steps out of the

carriage and waves, some people throw flowers at him.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/0)

And of little Napoleon, once King

of France?

Metternich turns away from the window - he walks to a

burning fire. He has some papers in his hand with Titles

written upon them. He looks at one: Emperor of the French

- he throws that into the fire; King of Rome - he throws

that into the fire; Prince of Parma - he throws that into

the fire; Duke of Babenberg - he throws that into the

fire. The last one reads: The Duke Of Reichstadt.

Metternich approaches Francis II and hands him the paper

to sign - which he does.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/O)

From within the nest of vipers

one snake hissed loud. The child

was stripped of all French royal

titles. Instead given that

pathetic duchy: Reichstadt...

The door to Franz’s carriage is taken off and replaced

with one with his new coat of arms.

In Rome Marie-Laetitia puts a small bust of Franz on her

mantelpiece.

MARIE-LAETITIA (V/O)

My grandson will never wear a

name more beautiful than the name

of his father. His title as Duke

of Reichstadt does not carry,

whereas the name of Napoleon will

resound forever to the ends of

16.

MARIE-LAETITIA (V/O)

the earth, and the land of France

will never fail to echo it...

There is much LAUGHTER.


There is much LAUGHTER as Georges falls onto his face.

Brice grabs Georges’ tankard, he takes a sip then begins

to PLAY the music-box, MATTEO CARCASSI: Op. 59 No. 45,

pretending to be drunk. People LAUGH as they help Georges

back up.

PUPPET-MASTER

...please, if I could have some

quiet. Thank you...thank

you...now, where was I?

He searches through his puppets. Finds one, picks it up.

LEGEND: VIENNA, WINTER 1828

30 INT. DIETRICHSTEIN’S HOUSE, OFFICE - DAY

Dietrichstein sits at his desk - many books and papers in

front of him.

O/S KNOCK at the door. SCHAEFFER enters. Dietrichstein

removes his glasses, rubs his nose.

SCHAEFFER

Auguste Barthélemy, sir.

DIETRICHSTEIN

Oh...no...no...can you...

BARTHELEMY PUSHES past Schaeffer, he has a leather satchel

over his shoulder. He bows.

DIETRICHSTEIN

Thank you Schaeffer, you can

leave us now.

(as Schaeffer bows and

exits)

The poet from France. Extremely

tenacious aren’t you...some would

say a nuisance.

BARTHELEMY

Of the former, I pray not; of the

latter, if that is the perception

then I apologise. I have been in

Vienna for several weeks; I have

been entertained and dined with

17.

BARTHELEMY

the great and the good yet I am

no closer to reaching my

objective. I am seeking an

audience with the Imperial Prince

and I have been informed that

you, as his personal tutor, could

grant me that.

DIETRICHSTEIN

Your visits, which are becoming

unwelcome, are a waste of time

for us both. I cannot

authorise...

BARTHELEMY

...surely a recommendation from

yourself would...

DIETRICHSTEIN

...do not put me in such a

position. I will not go against

the wishes of the Chancellor nor

of the Emperor. My instructions

are clear: no-one and I mean

NO-ONE is to be granted access.

(he replaces his glasses,

leans back)

And whilst we are discussing the

young Duke, I have to question

your motive for seeking this

audience. I wonder who could have

sent you on such an errand? Is

there a whiff of foul play...?

BARTHELEMY

(stepping backwards -

feigning shock)

I beg your pardon: foul play?

Nobody sent me; I’ve come by my

own volition. I am offended sir.

He motions to the empty chair opposite Dietrichstein’s

desk. The Count nods, Barthélemy sits.

BARTHELEMY

As I have explained to you

previously I simply wish to give

the Prince a gift, a copy of my

poem which is dedicated to the

glory - my apologies - which is

DEDICATED to the memory of his

father.

From his satchel he takes out a copy of: NAPOLEON IN

EGYPT.

18.

DIETRICHSTEIN

(holding up his hand)

I have read it. It showed...some

promise.

BARTHELEMY

Oh, I was unaware you were a

fellow poet. It will be an honour

to hear your opinion, your

criticism, suggestions for

improvements for a second

edition?

DIETRICHSTEIN

Monsieur, one does not need to be

a poet to understand how to be a

poet.

BARTHELEMY

One could argue the same could be

said for being an Imperial

Prince...or should that be a

prisoner...

DIETRICHSTEIN

A prisoner? I don’t...

BARTHELEMY

In France, the country of his

birth, it is assumed that the son

of Napoleon is a free man...

DIETRICHSTEIN

Monsieur, may I remind you that

you are a guest in my home and

also a guest in this country. Was

your purpose to offend? If so -

you have succeeded.

BARTHELEMY

My purpose cannot be any clearer

Count. I wish to see his Royal

Highness, the King of Rome - some

would say the rightful heir to

the French throne. However, it

appears that you or some other

person is frightened that a

conversation with a FREE MAN such

as myself might reveal something

secret which was previously

unknown, or even inspire him with

dangerous ideas - I’m not sure

which. I do not wish to offend

you or indeed Austria. I am sure

a compromise can be reached: I do

not even have to speak to him

alone. I would be happy to do so

19.

BARTHELEMYin your presence or with another

qualified person. It is not my

intention to speak ill of

Austria...

DIETRICHSTEIN

...which is reassuring.

BARTHELEMY

Yet, I have to question the

motives of keeping him locked

away. I wonder how it can be

hoped to prevent him ever

receiving a letter or

petition...maybe when he is

walking, riding or perhaps at the

theatre!

DIETRICHSTEIN

I am unsure whether you are

intentionally making threats

Monsieur but let me allay any

fears you may have: the Duke

hears sees and reads only what we

wish him to hear see and read -

which is all done for his own

good naturally.

BARTHELEMY

Then it is obvious we have

differing opinions on what

exactly it means to be a free

man, nonetheless if you could

pass this onto the Duke with my

compliments. No doubt he has a

library. I do not believe my work

is considered dangerous enough to

be censored?

DIETRICHSTEIN

Censored no, though it is

extremely provocative - which is

clear to me was your original

intention...

BARTHELEMY

Provocative?! There has been some

misunderstanding between us.

DIETRICHSTEIN

No, I don’t believe so. The

imagery, the descriptions, the

colouring of history, in the

wrong hands, a feeble mind could

easily become intoxicated or

disturbed. False ambitions could

20.

DIETRICHSTEIN

be sowed which ultimately would

achieve no satisfying result and

only serve to dissatisfy such a

weak soul with his current

situation.

BARTHELEMY

Feeble mind? Weak soul? He is a

Frenchman and one day he will

wish to see the country which...

DIETRICHSTEIN

(standing)

The Duke is more than content. He

doesn’t care for France. Tell

whoever sent you...

BARTHELEMY

...I am a man of letters. I am

not a diplomat, I am not a

politician. I was not sent. I

came alone.

DIETRICHSTEIN

Then I wish you safe travels.

BARTHELEMY

I did not wish to insult you but

I would be grateful if you could

give the Duke my poem...

DIETRICHSTEIN

He is out of the country.

BARTHELEMY

Out of the country? It was my

belief...

DIETRICHSTEIN

...I assure you Monsieur that...

Barthélemy attempts to put the poem down on the desk but

instead, KNOCKS a pile of papers to the floor. He picks

everything up, including an RSVP from the Hofburgtheatre.

BARTHELEMY

I did not mean...

Barthélemy hands the pile back to Dietrichstein who places

everything on the desk.

DIETRICHSTEIN

(angry)

I have other business which

requires my attention!

21.

BARTHELEMY

Of course. Thank you for your

time.

Dietrichstein leads Barthélemy to the door.

DIETRICHSTEIN

Schaeffer will show you out.

As Barthélemy exits, Dietrichstein goes back to his desk.

He goes through the pile of books / papers, sees NAPOLEON

IN EGYPT. He picks it up, shakes his head. He opens a

drawer and throws it in, slamming it shut.

31 EXT. HOFBURGTHEATRE - NIGHT

Carriages arrive. LORDS, LADIES and GENTLEMEN climb out

and enter the theatre. It is lightly SNOWING.

Barthélemy walks to the theatre entrance. He shows a

ticket to the TICKET INSPECTOR who examines it and allows

him to enter.

32 INT. HOFBURGTHEATRE, AUDITORIUM - NIGHT

Barthélemy is led to his seat by an ATTENDANT. He looks up

at the Royal Box. It is empty. The seats around Barthélemy

begin to fill up.

The ORCHESTRA enter, bow and find their places.


The lights DIM. There is COMMOTION. The doors to the Royal

Box open. Franz enters, accompanied by Sophie, Esterhazy,

Dietrichstein and other LORDS and LADIES.

A WOMAN sitting next to Barthélemy turns.

WOMAN

Doesn’t he look so handsome in

his white uniform?

MAN (O/S)

Sssshhh.

The Orchestra begins to PLAY the NATIONAL ANTHEM.

Everyone stands up. Several BEATS later when the Anthem is

finished, they sit back down.

The lights are fully EXTINGUISHED; the Orchestra starts to

PLAY MOZART: (OVERTURE) THE MAGIC FLUTE.

22.

In the darkness, Barthélemy attempts to get out of his

seat but he has no choice than to remain where he is.


The lights COME UP. There is much APPLAUSE.

Barthélemy wakes up. The Woman TUTTS as she stands, pushes

past him. He stares up as Franz and his entourage leave.

Barthélemy scrambles to get out past the other PEOPLE,

eventually manages to exit.

35 INT. HOFBURGTHEATRE, CORRIDOR - NIGHT

Barthélemy RUSHES into the corridor. He looks confused as

People exit. He makes his way through them until he finds

a door guarded by two IMPERIAL GUARDS, who BLOCK his way.

The door opens. Barthélemy is PUSHED to one side as Franz

and his entourage come through, flanked at the front and

rear by more Imperial Guards.

BARTHELEMY

Your Majesty, the King of Rome! I

wish to speak to you, about your

father. Have you forgotten who

you are? Have you forgotten your

true heritage?!

Franz keeps walking.

BARTHELEMY

Your Majesty! A moment, please!

Barthélemy attempts to escape the clutches of his Guard.

GUARD

Enough!

BARTHELEMY

(shouting)

Are you not a Bonaparte? Do not

forsake us! France needs you!

Franz turns his head slightly, briefly pauses for a BEAT.


Dietrichstein WHISPERS something Franz picks up the pace.

SOPHIE

What is going on there? Who is

that man?

23.

DIETRICHSTEIN

(turning)

Excuse me, Your Highness, I’ll

deal with this.

He steps aside, the entourage heads towards the exit.

Esterhazy stops, turns, watches for a moment and then

follows.


Dietrichstein approaches Barthélemy.

DIETRICHSTEIN

I am finding you extremely

tiresome, borderline offensive.

It ends and it ends now.

BARTHELEMY

Why did you lie to me? Why did

you say the Prince was out of the

country when he’s...?

The Guard SLAPS Barthélemy across the face and then

PUNCHES him in the stomach. Barthélemy doubles up in

agony.

DIETRICHSTEIN

None of us want further

unpleasantness. Return to France.

Do not visit us again, if you do

you may be surprised by a

different kind of hospitality.

He turns to the Guards.

DIETRICHSTEIN

Ensure Monsieur understands that

the people of Austria do not

enjoy being offended

by...foreigners.

Barthélemy is DRAGGED away.

38 EXT. HOFBURGTHEATRE, ALLEY - NIGHT

Barthélemy is THROWN into the alley. The snow falls

HEAVILY. He goes to stand but the Guard KICKS him then

PUNCHES him. The Guard goes back into the theatre, pulling

the door closed behind him. Gingerly, Barthélemy gets to

his feet. There is blood on his face. Holding his stomach,

he STAGGERS away.

24.

39 EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - EARLY MORNING

A horse drawn stage-coach travels along a country road.

40 INT. STAGE-COACH - EARLY MORNING

Barthélemy sits with several other PASSENGERS. His face is

badly bruised and cut. He opens his satchel, takes out

some paper and his pen / ink. He stares out of the window

and writes down the words: THE SON OF A MAN.

LEGEND: Spring, 1829

41 INT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, CAROUSEL ROOM - DAY

Metternich stands staring out of the window. FREDERICK VON

GENTZ sits in a chair in the B/GRND. The door opens,

Dietrichstein enters. He looks over to Von Gentz but he is

not acknowledged. Metternich throws a book. Dietrichstein

catches it. It is: THE SON OF A MAN by AUGUSTE BARTHELEMY.

Dietrichstein flicks through the pages.

DIETRICHSTEIN

A worthless tract by a third rate

poet.

METTERNICH

Worthless? You would deem

something worthless which attacks

our glorious nation, our glorious

people, even an Imperial Prince

of Austria?! You have seriously

disappointed me. You were told to

resolve this situation; was I

wrong to put my trust in you?

Perhaps I should look at having

you replaced, should I question

your competence?

DIETRICHSTEIN

Of course not. We kept the poet

away from the Duke but he

discovered he was at the thea...

METTERNICH

...I know full well what happened

at the theatre! He should never

have been able to get as close as

he did. He could have been an

assassin.

DIETRICHSTEIN

I appreciate you have

your...informers...but an

assassin, no.

25.

(he looks at the book)

I will accept some responsibility

for this. However, I ask for

another opportunity to prove my

worth - we are making some

progress...

METTERNICH

For now you will remain in your

post, though I am not wholly

convinced. I will be clear: I

will not be embarrassed before

the Emperor a second time.

DIETRICHSTEIN

You have my word.

METTERNICH

The Duke never sees that poem.

Orders have been issued that

every copy entering the Empire is

destroyed. I do not want to hear

that he has acquired one by other

means.

He looks out of the window looks at Franz in the Courtyard

on his horse. The MASTER-AT-ARMS is TALKING to him. Franz

attempts to perform the piaffe but the horse BOLTS forward

and he is THROWN to the ground. The Master-At-Arms helps

him to his feet. Franz dusts himself down and runs after

the horse. When he controls it, he tries to get back on

again.

METTERNICH

Has he ever spoken to you about

the support he enjoys in France?

DIETRICHSTEIN

Such thoughts have ever entered

his mind. He does not wish to

rule, he is a child who...

METTERNICH

Your naiveté astounds me. The

Duke is young and perhaps without

ambition, but be careful, such

appearances are often deceptive.

We both know there are those whom

wish him to rule on the strength

of the Bonaparte name alone. This

must be resolved effectively once

and for all. The poet must be the

first...and the last.

Von Gentz coughs. Metternich turns then back to

Dietrichstein.

26.

METTERNICH

Report to me even the slightest

inkling that the Duke’s attention

is focusing on France.

Dietrichstein bows and exits.

METTERNICH

Your...expertise...is required.

Von Gentz stands.

LEGEND: Paris, France, 29 July 1829

42 EXT. THE TRIBUNAL DE POLICE CORRECTIONELLE - DAY

43 INT. THE TRIBUNAL DE POLICE CORRECTIONNELLE - DAY

The Tribunal is full of PEOPLE. They are SHOUTING, WAVING

flags / banners / hats / flowers. Barthélemy stands in the

dock. Von Gentz watches from the rear of the Tribunal.

There are several JUDGES who stare on.

MESLIN, President of the Judges, BANGS his gavel.

MESLIN

Monsieur Auguste Barthélemy, you

stand before us on this day to

answer charges...

BARTHELEMY

Well - I want to hear these

supposed charges. Against whom am

I charged?

There is much CHEERING / JEERING from the People. Meslin

BANGS the gavel until the Tribunal is quiet.

MESLIN

The charges are thus: you have

attacked the legitimate royal

dynasty of this country; you have

attacked the birth-right of our

lawful king: Charles, the tenth

of that name; you have provoked

others to rebel and demand

Ministers are replaced...

The People SHOUT / HISS.

BARTHELEMY

And the proof of all this, is

what?

Meslin picks up THE SON OF A MAN from his bench.

27.

MESLIN

Your guilt is here. It cannot be

contested. The words within are

YOUR words are they not?! Or have

we been misinformed?

BARTHELEMY

That is my work correct - but, if

I can’t contest YOUR charges,

then why this masquerade? I stand

here, a condemned man, without a

fair trial! Wasn’t that one of

the very injustices we fought

against almost fifty years ago:

the lack of equality?!

The People become ROWDY. Meslin BANGS his gavel.

BARTHELEMY

You call me guilty? Fine - I’m

guilty. But Monsieur, what you

call my crime...well, it is but a

whisper - you sit there and judge

me for that whisper?! Listen

friend, others will follow,

others will follow me and that

whisper, my whisper, will become

a scream and many screams united

will become a nation’s shout for

revolution! YOU may quieten ME

but you will NEVER quieten the

PEOPLE.

Barthelemy turns to address the Tribunal.

BARTHELEMY

(pointing at Meslin)

That MAN has no authority

here...he has no right to judge

me, but you - the people - do and

I accept that. BUT, if you sit in

judgement over me then you will

be judging yourselves and if you

condemn me, you will be

condemning yourselves.

(the Tribunal remains quiet)

HE is blind not to understand

that his so-called LEGITIMATE

monarchy has cheated us, and

continues to cheat us, every day

of our miserable lives. Did we

not once cut off the head of a

serpent - a snake who tried to

escape justice by slithering

through the grasses which he

hoped would lead him out of

France and onto safety? Were we

28.

BARTHELEMYnot victorious then? We were yes!

Yet what we did not know then was

that serpent had many heads, many

forms...friends: the chains that

we once broke have shackled us

again. We are like HIM -

wandering blind in the darkness

we mistakenly call freedom. But

no more! You, me, THE PEOPLE,

will rise again! We will not

allow tyranny to hold us back.

Barthlemy turns back to Meslin.

BARTHELEMY

And so tell me, you who allegedly

judge us all...do you know what

is good for us?

MESLIN

The state is the one that judges

you Monsieur and I am the

representation of that state.

Even if you had all the people in

this Tribunal beside you...

Some of the People begin to SHOUT.

MESLIN (CONT.)

...supporting you, it would mean

nothing - they are not the law,

they cannot be above the law.

BARTHELEMY

(laughing)

And that is exactly your problem,

MONSIEUR. You say that this is a

legitimate monarchy? I am sure

there others, perhaps in this

very place, yes, this VERY PLACE,

who entirely disagree with you!

There is UPROAR.


Meslin bangs his gavel several times but nobody is

listening.

MESLIN

(shouting)

Monsieur, I will not allow you

to...

29.

BARTHELEMY

Why do my words frighten you? I

promise you this, my JUDGE: you

may declare me guilty. The people

of France know the truth however,

and my fate will not be the same

as Louis Capet’s.

There is much hat WAVING / SHOUTING.

BARTHELEMY

(accepting the adoration)

Understand this MONSIEUR, for too

long my people have been

oppressed and ignored...BUT...

He turns and addresses the Tribunal once again.


Barthelemy opens his arms.

BARTHELEMY

...there is another. One who will

liberate us, one who will break

our shackles; one who will rid us

of our misery. A Prince who was

born to be King and yet...and

yet, is now held prisoner by our

Austrian enemies, reduced to a

puppet...

The People JEER angrily.

MESLIN

Excuse me...

BARTHELEMY

You heard me. A PUPPET! Let us

demand his return immediately,

his throne awaits! Am I not the

only one who wants this? Am I not

the only one who wants the son of

Napoleon to return in

triumph???!!!

The People CHEER in support.

MESLIN

...I said EXCUSE ME!

Von Gentz shifts uncomfortably.

30.


Meslin turns to the other Judges, they WHISPER to each

other. He SMASHES his gavel on the desk. The People

quieten but there is still some CHATTER.

MESLIN

(loudly)

You appear to have many talents

Monsieur, hypocrisy being one of

them! You pontificate to your

audience about this Bonapartist

Messiah and yet...

(he holds up the poem)

...and yet, is that the same

Saviour you describe as a fragile

orphan with no ambition, no

desire, no will?!

BARTHELEMY

(shocked)

No, you don’t understand, you are

taking my words out of context.

The Tribunal BOOS / HISSES.

MESLIN

The fact is I understand

perfectly. Monsieur, your words

have proved that your guilt

cannot be denied. I condemn your

verbal insurrection against our

most Glorious Majesty, Charles

the Tenth, the LEGITIMATE ruler

of this kingdom. I, and therefore

the state, decree that from this

moment you spend three months in

prison and a fine of a thousand

Francs must be...

The People HECKLE.

BARTHELEMY

Outrageous! I have done nothing.

I have committed no crime...you

have no right! Is it prohibited

now to speak our mind or has that

become outlawed?

MESLIN

I have every right. Guards, take

him down!

Some GUARDS enter, they grab Barthélemy, drag him away.

SCUFFLES break out within the People. The NOISE is

DEAFENING.

31.

PEOPLE

Injustice! Injustice! Vive

Napoleon! Vive Napoleon. Down

with the Bourbon!

A MAN THROWS a tomato. It hits Meslin. Other People start

THROWING objects at each other, at the Judges, at the

Guards.

More Guards enter the Tribunal. They try to control the

People but a big FIGHT breaks out. It is TURMOIL.

Von Gentz makes his way towards Meslin. He and several

Guards help the Judges exit the Tribunal.

47 EXT. THE TRIBUNAL DE POLICE CORRECTIONNELLE - DAY

Von Gentz, Meslin, the Judges RUSH down the steps. The

Guards try to close the doors, to keep the People inside,

but fight a losing battle.

On the street, other People see what is happening and

begin to RUN up the steps to help their comrades. It is

total CHAOS.

Von Gentz manages to get Meslin out of the way of the main

melee. From his coat he takes a velvet pouch. He hands it

to Meslin who pockets it. Von Gents QUICKLY walks away. As

the doors to the Tribunal burst open and the People spill

out, Meslin RUSHES off in the opposite direction.

48 EXT. MEIDLINGER VERTIEFUNG - DAY

Franz and the Master-At Arms are FENCING. Franz ATTACKS,

the Master-At-Arms PARRIES. Franz ATTACKS again.

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Will you please stop slouching,

Your Highness.

The Master-At-Arms PARRIES then ATTACKS. Franz PARRIES as

he stands up straighter.

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Better...but Footwork! Steady

that back foot.

Franz ATTACKS, the Master-At-Arms PARRIES and quickly

ATTACKS.

Franz attempts to parry but gets his feet TANGLED up, he

TRIPS. As he does so the Master-At-Arms ATTACKS again,

knocks the sword out of Franz’s hand. His palm is sliced.

32.

FRANZ

My hand!

He quickly gets to his feet.

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Are you hurt?

FRANZ

(stepping away)

Leave me, I’m fine.

The Master-At-Arms tries to assist but Frank knocks him

away.

FRANZ

I said I’m alright.

Franz walks away, heads towards a nearby Pavilion.

49 EXT. MEIDLINGER VERTIEFUNG, PAVILION - DAY

Franz enters the pavilion. He WINCES as blood pours

between his fingers.

Sophie is sitting having tea and petit-fours with the

GRAND DUCHESS OF TUSCANY.

SOPHIE

(concerned)

Oh my goodness, let me take a

look.

She takes a serviette from the table, dabs at his wound.

FRANZ

I was clumsy. I should have

beaten him.

She finishes cleaning the wound; she wraps another

serviette around his hand.

SOPHIE

It’ll sting for a while.

He falls into an empty chair.

TUSCANY

Boys will be boys. Always playing

so roughly.

SOPHIE

You know the Grand Duchess?

33.

FRANZ

(bowing his head)

Of course.

TUSCANY

Perhaps some tea to calm that hot

temper of yours?

FRANZ

(laughing)

With pleasure.

Sophie pours him a cup - hands it to him on a saucer.

TUSCANY

It is fortuitous seeing you today

young Duke. Your name just came

up in our conversation.

FRANZ

(to Sophie)

Should my ears be burning?

Sophie looks at the Grand Duchess quickly then back to

him.

SOPHIE

It was just so terrible wasn’t

it?

Franz looks at his hand; the serviette is slightly pink.

He takes a sip of his tea.

FRANZ

Hopefully it won’t scar. I’ve

learnt my lesson. He won’t beat

me again.

SOPHIE

I meant Paris. Such awful news.

That judge was lucky to escape

with his life. Riots in the

streets...and all because of a

poem! Who could have imagined?

FRANZ

(confused)

I don’t understand...poem?

The Grand Duchess reaches down into a basket on the floor.

She takes out THE SON OF A MAN and hands it to Franz.

TUSCANY

It is banned throughout the

Empire but I am a well connected

patron of the arts. I have many

means at my disposal. I’m afraid

it isn’t very flattering...

34.

Franz FLICKS through the pages.

FRANZ

I’ve never heard of this...nor

the poet. Barthélemy?! And Paris

- people were hurt? Because of

me?! This is extremely upsetting.

He THROWS it down on the table. The Grand Duchess turns to

Sophie - she looks concerned.

FRANZ

I don’t understand why secrets

are being kept from me. Why would

someone I don’t even know speak

ill of me? What have I ever done

to them?

SOPHIE

You remember the theatre last

year, that commotion, someone

shouting...

FRANZ

And because of that night,

because I didn’t speak to that

man, people are taking to the

streets?

TUSCANY

I’m sure it’s not as simple as

that.

FRANZ

It never is. I don’t deserve

this.

TUSCANY

No. Nobody ever does.

FRANZ

Am I a bad person? Have I done

wrong by anyone?

SOPHIE

Don’t take it personally.

FRANZ

Because if I have, then bring

them before me and I will right

that wrong.

He stands, puts the cup / saucer on the table.

FRANZ

(smiling but it is not

honest)

35.

FRANZMy apologies but I must take my

leave - I shall see the physician

about my wound and I have some

studying...

He bows, goes to leave but then picks up the book.

FRANZ

I will read this with great

interest. Perhaps I will discover

the flaws of my character which

appear to have entranced the

people of Paris and maybe correct

them and be taken more seriously.

Or even less seriously.

He heads away - rejoins the Master-At-Arms.

50 INT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, FRANZ’S APARTMENTS - NIGHT

Carrying a lit candle, Franz enters his apartments. His

wound has been bandaged. He walks towards the back wall -

there is a door HIDDEN there. He pushes it open.

51 INT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, HIDDEN ROOM - NIGHT

Franz enters, leaving the door ajar. It is littered with

children’s toys (some broken). He sits down at the desk

which is covered in small tin soldiers. He makes some

space, puts down the candle. He reaches inside his shirt,

pulls out the SON OF A MAN, lays it down and begins to

read.

BARTHELEMY (V/O)

Adventurous poet in the distance

soar at Pyrrhus’s court, saw the

son of Hector.

As Franz reads, he RAPIDLY moves his fingers around his

thumb.

BARTHELEMY (V/O)

Like a tree with a trunk so

flimsy. Blown in a storm to a

foreign country.Far from its

paternal soil - it languishes.

Producing insipid flowers and

dead branches.

Franz continues to turn the pages.

FRANZ

(reading)

Of the people you are their

comforter, grandson of Caesar,

36.

FRANZson of an Emperor. Heir to the

world, you were born King of

Rome. But you’re nothing more

than Le Fils de L’Homme!

Franz SMASHES his fist down on the desk - the soldiers are

sent flying. His hand begins to bleed again.

FRANZ

(reading)

So what!!! Think you worthy of

your given crown? Don’t you one

day want to conquer by your own?

The tears flow and he CRIES in rage. He holds his head; he

wipes his cheeks - blood now on his face, mixed with

tears. Franz stands up, but STAGGERS. He KNOCKS into a

wooden rocking-horse. He STUMBLES into a book-case,

several books FALL to the floor. He leans down, picks one

up it is: DON CARLOS. He holds the book close to him.

FRANZ

Let me weep, let me shed burning

years upon your heart, O sole

friend of mine! I have no one, no

one on the face of this wide

earth...I know not what a father

is...yet I am the son of a King!

He slumps against the wall and starts to SOB.

52 INT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, FRANZ’S APARTMENTS - DAY

LAMBERT enters. He is carrying a tray of hot food. He

looks for Franz - he notices the door to the Hidden Room

is open.

53 INT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, HIDDEN ROOM - DAY

Lambert steps inside - Franz is lying on the floor.

Lambert puts the tray down on the desk, RUSHES over to

him.

LAMBERT

Your Highness! Your Highness!

He gently SHAKES Franz - slowly his eyes open. Franz sits

up properly, rubs his face.

FRANZ

I must have...is it morning

already?

Lambert helps Franz to his feet.

37.

FRANZ

No mention of this to anyone.

LAMBERT

(motioning)

You have...some blood?

Franz looks at his hand, the dirty bandage.

FRANZ

It’s just a cut. I must have

rubbed my face when I was

sleeping. I’m fine, look.

He wets his fingers, rubs his cheeks, removing the blood.

He goes and sits down at the desk.

LAMBERT

Would the physician...

FRANZ

(picking up his fork)

No...no...I’m fine. Honestly. Let

me eat before it gets cold.

LAMBERT

Do you require anything else,

Your Highness?

As Franz has a mouthful of food he just shakes his head.

Lambert bows and exits. Franz waits for several BEATS then

puts down the fork.


Franz goes to the corner of the room where the

rocking-horse is lying on its side and which has disturbed

several other items. He pulls toys out of the way. A small

painting leans against the wall. He picks it up, dusts it

down. It is a portrait of his father.

FRANZ

Were you not a good man? Am I not

a good man? Is what the poet said

correct?

NAPOLEON (V.O.)

I leave you with the greatest

title but if destiny orders

differently I have prepared you

for a most glorious exile with a

name honoured by many. Whatever

happens we shall meet either in

this world or the next.

Franz stares at the painting.

38.

55 INT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, LIBRARY - DAY

Franz searches through the stacks. Using a small ladder -

from the top shelf he takes one or two books and then

reaches in further - there is a small dusty volume. He

reads the spine: MEMORIAL OF ST HELENA. He puts it under

his arm and starts grabbing other books - one in

particular is by ANTON GRAF PROKESCH VON OSTEN.


Lambert helps Franz clear away all the toys from the desk

and area nearby. Lots of books now cover the desk

(including several PRAYER BOOKS and THE COMPLETE WORKS OF

SHAKESPEARE). Maps of Europe - the Austrian and French

Empires as well as the British and Russian Empires are

tacked to the wall.

Lying on his table are THE SON OF A MAN and MEMORIAL OF ST

HELENA - covered in Franz’s notes / comments in the

margins.


The Puppet-Master lays down the puppet of Franz. He

SIGNALS to Brice who starts turning the handle of his

music-box, MATTEO CARCASSI: Op. 59 No. 45 begins to PLAY.

From his trunk he takes out a small clay liquor bottle, he

takes a massive swig.

O/S the SOUND of SNORING.


Suddenly, on his bale of straw, George comes too - there

is much LAUGHTER around him. The Puppet-Master approaches.

GEORGES

(groggy)

What’s going on...has it

finished?

PUPPET-MASTER

I’m resting for a moment if

that’s alright with you?!

GEORGES

I’m not sure how long my bladder

will hold out! Hurry up man,

hurry up before I piss myself!

The Puppet-Master disappears behind his toy-theatre

ANNOYED.

39.


The Puppet-Master takes another swig from his bottle. He

then SIGNALS to Brice to stop playing.

SFX / PUPPET ANIMATION SEQUENCE

Franz sits at a table in his apartment. A succession of

tutors enter, speak but he’s not listening; he doodles in

his books.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/O)

Franz was uninspired. He would

ask questions about his father

but everyone was under orders not

to say anything, so to anger

them, he would play the idiot.

One tutor notices what Franz is doing, shouts at him,

Franz throws his books to the floor and storms out.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/O)

But at night, when he was alone,

he taught himself.

In his hidden room, at his desk, Franz has many books

open. He looks over at the portrait of Napoleon and

smiles.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/O)

He would relive Napoleon’s life,

retrace his footsteps, re-enact

his great deeds, fight his

battles which they would win them

together, side by side. He became

inspired and through the finding

of his father, he begun to find

himself.

Franz stands, walks to his mirror and looks at his

reflection. He holds his hands behind his back, walks

backwards and forwards - mirroring Napoleon in his prime.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/O)

All that inspiration, all that

knowledge was useful but what

could he do with it? Besides

Sophie and maybe his Valet,

Lambert, the little Duke didn’t

have any real friends, no-one he

could wholly trust to advise or

counsel him, someone who might

help him become the man that the

child so longed to be.

Franz goes back to his desk. He picks up Prokesch’s book.

40.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/O)

Perhaps it was to be through the

military that he was to find that

mentor...?

He starts to flick through the pages. He nods and smiles

broadly as he writes note after note after note.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/O)

Franz became transformed. He

started to take his studies

seriously. His tutors and even

Sophie were impressed.

Franz sits at the table in his apartments, he listens as

the succession of tutors teach him. He makes notes and

answers their questions. He scores top marks in the exams

they set.

PUPPET-MASTER (V/O)

His temper grew softer, he had

less violent outbursts, he worked

diligently and made quick

progress in French, in

history...in military

tactics...the son was surely

becoming the father...

Franz climbs upon his horse, with his troop behind him.

LEGEND: MARCH, 1830

60 EXT. MEIDLINGER VERTIEFUNG, PARADE AREA - DAY

Many MILITARY OFFICERS and SOLDIERS are in the Meidlinger

Vertiefung. A parade is in full swing.

A Temporary Stand has been erected. That and the Pavilion

are full of DIGNITARIES and MEMBERS OF THE ROYAL FAMILY,

including: Francis, Karoline, Sophie, Franz-Karl,

Metternich, Dietrichstein. Prokesch is in the Temporary

Stand speaking to other Officers.

O/S a drum can be heard BEATING.

The people look on as a troop of CAVALRY on their horses

appear behind a lone DRUMMER-BOY and enter the Parade

Area. They move into their correct formation.

Franz rides along side them. He holds a small trumpet.

FRANZ

Salute!

The soldiers salute the Emperor who raises his hand.

Francis nods and Franz puts the trumpet to his lips.

41.

Franz gives one BLAST and the horses begin to CANTER.

Franz gives a second BLAST and the horses begin to TROT.

Franz gives a third BLAST and the horses CANTER again.

Franz gives a fourth BLAST and in turn each of the troop,

one by one and taking out their swords, turn their horses

- and with the swords raised they CHARGE away.


In the distance, Franz’s trumpet can be HEARD.

The horses stop, the soldiers sheath their swords.

Franz gives a sixth BLAST and the horses RETREAT into the

Parade Area.

Franz BLASTS his trumpet and the horses move back into

their original positions. He manoeuvres his horse and

approaches the Pavilion.

FRANZ

Three cheers for the Emperor.

Hip. Hip. Hooray.

PEOPLE

(in unison)

Hip. Hip. Hooray.

The horses lower their heads towards the Emperor. Francis

stands and waves his hand as the People burst into

APPLAUSE and CHEER both him and Franz.


A MESSENGER RUSHES towards the Pavilion.

63 INT. MEIDLINGER VERTIEFUNG, PAVILION - DAY

The Messenger makes his way into the Pavilion. Metternich

BECKONS him over. The Messenger hands him a piece of

paper.

In the B/GRND CHURCH BELLS can be heard RINGING.

Metternich stands and approaches Francis, speaks to him.

Francis takes the paper, reads it then hands it to the

Officer sitting near to him. Francis stands, turns and

leaves the Pavilion.

In the B/GRND CANNON can be heard being SHOT.

42.


Franz watches as Francis and the Officers leave the

Pavilion and then as People begin to leave the Temporary

Stand.

There is much NOISE as the People begin CHATTERING loudly.

Franz rides his horse towards the Pavilion.


Franz approaches the Pavilion.

FRANZ

Why is everybody leaving?

MASTER-AT-ARMS (O/S)

The Danube has flooded. The banks

have broken. The villages are

under water. It’s a catastrophe.

FRANZ

Oh my Lord! Then I must help.

He turns his horse but as the Master-At-Arms comes closer,

he grabs the reins. Franz covers his mouth as he begins to

cough. He controls it eventually.

Francis trots towards them surrounded by other Officers.

FRANZ

Your Majesty - how may I assist?

FRANCIS

You have pleased the Emperor

greatly - but we believe you

would be best suited remaining

here...

FRANZ

Why? Have I not proved myself?

Franz coughs again. It takes him several BEATS until he

stops.

FRANCIS

Indeed you have, indeed you have.

But we wish you to remain with

your men - if we have need of you

we will send word. Look after

that cough; we wouldn’t want it

spreading to your chest.

Master-At-Arms.

He nods and he rides away.

43.

MASTER-AT-ARMS

(nodding)

Your Majesty.

FRANZ

This isn’t fair. I can help - the

people need me.

MASTER-AT-ARMS

They need their Emperor. You’ve

done well, if you continue to

progress your chance will come.

You’ll be able to prove your

skills as a leader.

Franz reluctantly nods.

MASTER-AT-ARMS

(letting go of Franz’s

reins)

Do as the Emperor commanded: go

to your men.

Franz turns his horse and trots away.

66 INT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, FRANZ’S APARTMENTS - NIGHT

Lambert helps Franz into his new dress uniform.

O/S there is a KNOCK at the door. MARIE-LOUISE enters. She

is carrying a large box tied with a ribbon.

FRANZ

Mother! I am happy to see you.

They embrace.

MARIE-LOUISE

How handsome you look. I’m sorry

I couldn’t be here earlier but

what with the floods...I’m proud

of you.

She gives him the box. He opens it: a sabre. He lifts it

out.

MARIE-LOUISE

Your father wanted you to have

this when the time was right.

FRANZ

(kissing her)

I’m honoured.

Lambert assists fitting the belt / scabbard around his

waist.

44.

MARIE-LOUISE

Perfect.

Franz walks to a large mirror. Marie-Louise stands behind

him - he lifts the scabbard.

FRANZ

I pray one day it will serve me

with honour, pride and glory.

O/S there is a KNOCK at the door. A GUARD enters - he bows

to Marie-Louise and then to Franz.

GUARD

Your attendance is required in

the Ceremonial Room.

The Guard bows and exits - Lambert helps Franz to finish

dressing.

67 INT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, CEREMONIAL ROOM - NIGHT

The Room is packed with many OFFICERS / DIGNITARIES.

Francis and Karoline sit in their thrones.

At the entrance to the Room, COUNT CZERNIN, the High

Chamberlain CALLS names from a list. The Officers enter,

approach Francis, kneel before him. He pins medals on

their chests and gives them the insignia of their new

rank.

CZERNIN

His Royal Highness, the Duke of

Reichstadt.

Franz enters, approaches Francis and kneels before him.

Francis pins on his medal, hands him his new insignia.

FRANCIS

Your Emperor is proud of you.

Austria is proud of you. Respect

your country and serve it with

the glory and honour it deserves.

FRANZ

I swear I will do my duty to the

Emperor and to my country.

FRANCIS

Then no more can be asked.

Franz stands, bows. Both Francis and Karoline smile at him

as he walks away.

45.

68 INT. SCHONBRUNN PALACE, CEREMONIAL ROOM - NIGHT

Franz walks towards several Officers. Metternich

approaches.

METTERNICH

I was admiring your sabre, do you

mind?

Franz takes it from his scabbard.

METTERNICH

(holding it)

Most interesting.

Metternich runs his thumb along the blade.

FRANZ

You have appeared to hurt

yourself Chancellor.

METTERNICH

(looking at his wounded

thumb)

I suspect this is not the first

Austrian blood to be spilt on

that sword.

FRANZ

No...with any luck however, it

will be the last.

Marie-Louise enters the Ceremonial Room.

Franz takes back the sabre.

FRANZ

If you will excuse me.

He puts the sabre into the scabbard and walks away.


A reception is under way. The Gallery is full of

Dignitaries, Royal Family Members and Military Officers.

A String Quartet is PLAYING JOSEPH HAYDN: EMPEROR QUARTET

(C)

Marie-Louise talks with Sophie. Franz is nearby speaking

to the Master-At-Arms.

An Officer, CAPTAIN WERTHEIMER approaches Marie-Louise.

46.

WERTHEIMER

(bowing)

If I may offer my condolences for

your recent loss.

MARIE-LOUISE

That is very much appreciated

Captain...?

WERTHEIMER

Johann Wertheimer, Your Majesty.

MARIE-LOUISE

Yes. You served with my husband

at Tolentino. He spoke of you as

a man of honour and dignity.

WERTHEIMER

It was a famous victory. He will

be sorely missed as both

statesman and soldier.

As Franz watches, Wertheimer bows to both Marie-Louise and

Sophie.

WERTHEIMER

Forgive my intrusion.

He walks away - Franz approaches.

FRANZ

(kissing her on the cheek)

Mother. Who was that Officer? I

didn’t recognise the name.

Wertheimer? I am somewhat

confused though because I thought

I heard him say he served with my

father at Tolentino; that it was

a famous victory?

MARIE-LOUISE

(uncomfortable)

That is what the Captain said.

Yes.

FRANZ

The French were defeated at

Tolentino, it was the Austrians

who were victorious.

SOPHIE

Please Franz, this isn’t...

FRANZ

(to Sophie)

I am speaking to my mother.

(to Marie-Louise)

47.

FRANZI certainly don’t remember any,

Wertheimer, serving with my

father. He also offered his

condolences - it has been several

years since my father passed...

SOPHIE

Franz...this is not the time nor

the place...

FRANZ

(touching Marie-Louise’s

cheeks)

You appear to be crying darling

mother - have I upset you or was

it what the Captain said?

Marie-Louise goes to turn away. He grabs her face.

FRANZ

You are hiding something from

me...what is it?

MARIE-LOUISE

People are staring!

FRANZ

(looking around)

Why should I care about them? Or

do they know this dark secret you

are keeping from your son?

MARIE-LOUISE

I should have told you...

Sophie takes hold of Franz’s hand.

He stares at Marie-Louise - eventually he lets go of her.


Marie-Louise RUSHES across the Gallery and exits.

SOPHIE

That was no way to treat your

mother. She has a respected place

in society, as do you. You would

do well to remember that.

FRANZ

Is there something you would like

to tell me? I would be extremely

disappointed if you, my friend,

were keeping things from me.

Sophie shakes her head and follows Marie-Louise out.

48.


Franz walks through the Hall, looking at his reflection.


Franz stands in front of a mirror. He smiles. He frowns.

He laughs. He cries. His fingers, each in turn, dance over

his thumb. His face shows no emotion. Eventually he

smiles, wipes the tears from his eyes. His fingers stop

moving.


Franz turns. Lambert stands at the door.

LAMBERT

Your Highness, I have a message

from the kitchen.

FRANZ

Why, yes...yes...of course.

He takes one last look at himself, then follows Lambert

out.

74 INT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, KITCHEN - NIGHT

Franz enters the kitchen. Many SERVANTS, SERVING STAFF,

KITCHEN STAFF RUSH about. When they notice Franz they stop

and bow.

FRANZ

Please, don’t let me distract

you.

They look unsure but slowly do as he asked. An old man,

the CHEF approaches Franz. Franz holds out his hand, they

shake.

CHEF

Your Highness.

FRANZ

(laughing)

There was a time you used to call

me boy, do you remember? A rude

and spiteful boy...

CHEF

Spiteful no. Never that and not

rude either...playful, yes.

49.

FRANZ

Playful...we will agree on that.

Franz points to the large table in the centre of the room.

FRANZ

You used to catch me hiding under

there but always pretended you

didn’t know where I was.

CHEF

You were an expert at being

unseen.

FRANZ

Hiding in plain sight: a trait I

seem to have nurtured my whole

life. Anyway...Fraulein Waltz?

CHEF

In the pastry kitchen...

FRANZ

I know the way. Don’t let me keep

you.

Franz reaches out, grabs the Chef’s hand again.

FRANZ

It is always a pleasure to see

you old friend. Good evening

everybody.

He exits as the Staff reply: GOOD EVENING.

75 INT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, PASTRY KITCHEN - NIGHT

Franz KNOCKS at the door and enters.

FRAULEIN WALTZ is putting pastries into the oven - when

she sees Franz she stands back, brushes down her uniform.

WALTZ

(curtsying)

Your Highness.

FRANZ

(waving his hand)

Please, I am not the Emperor, nor

an Archduke.

WALTZ

You have a position and that

should be respected.

50.

FRANZ

(smiling)

By some, yes.

FRANZ

(motioning to the small

table and chairs)

Can we sit and talk a moment?

Franz waits for her to pull out a chair and sit. Once she

is comfortable, he sits down too.

WALTZ

Have I caused some displeasure?

FRANZ

I have been wanting to speak to

you most of the day.

Fraulein Waltz smiles but looks confused.

FRANZ

I was surprised when I heard that

you were still in the Palace -

your niece passed away in the

flood...

WALTZ

...I had been informed that was

what happened.

FRANZ

Your late sister’s daughter?

WALTZ

That is correct.

FRANZ

So why are you here? You should

be with your family. Not making

croissants for tomorrow’s

breakfast!

WALTZ

I don’t have much family anymore.

There is nothing I can do for

her, she is in the arms of our

Lord. The church will bury her in

time.

FRANZ

I wanted to help in the villages

but I was told it was not

possible. I would have done

anything, something at least. You

were close to your niece?

51.

WALTZ

I was. Yes. Since my

sister....yes, I was.

FRANZ

Then go to her. Ensure she is

respected in death as she was in

life...

He reaches inside his tunic, takes out a small pouch.

FRANZ

That should provide for a decent

funeral.

WALTZ

I can’t take that, it wouldn’t be

right.

FRANZ

(standing)

You are taking nothing. I give it

to you freely.

Fraulein Waltz is CRYING. She RUSHES over to him, hugs

him, then stops when she realises what she has done. He

kisses her on the forehead and exits.

76 EXT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, COURTYARD - EARLY MORNING

Franz walks towards the Palace’s entrance. He has been

riding. He looks exhausted. Marie-Louise exits the Palace.

FRANZ

Up early mother?

He kisses her.

MARIE-LOUISE

It’s freezing, you should be

wearing something warmer.

FRANZ

I’ll be fine. I can look after

myself.

MARIE-LOUISE

When you were a boy do you

remember the walks we used to

take together?

FRANZ

I’m not a child anymore.

52.

MARIE-LOUISE

No...but...it’s been a long

time...accompany me - please.

She holds out her arm. He nods and takes it.

77 EXT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, TIERGARTEN - MORNING

Arm in arm they walk through the zoo, admiring the various

animals and exotic plant-life.

FRANZ

I would like to apologise for

last night. I was disrespectful.

However, I’m sure you understand

my...confusion? I do not like

people keeping secrets.

Especially not you; especially

not Sophie.

MARIE-LOUISE

Have you made peace with her? She

was upset.

FRANZ

I will when the opportunity

presents itself.

MARIE-LOUISE

Learn to control your temper,

especially in the company of

others. Always remember your

place...your manners must be

impeccable.

Franz’s fingers begin to dance over his thumb.

FRANZ

Now that I have apologised, I

demand to know the truth...

MARIE-LOUISE

...demand?

He calms. His fingers stop moving. He takes a deep breath.

FRANZ

I would like to KNOW the truth.

She breaks free walks to one of the animal enclosures.

53.


Marie-Louise stares into the enclosure.

MARIE-LOUISE

I do not wish to make you angry

or upset. Count von Neipperg...

FRANZ

The General? The Grand Master of

the Court of Parma?

MARIE-LOUISE

He accompanied me when I first

went to Italy. He made my life

more comfortable. He was a good

man.

FRANZ

He hated my father...

Marie-Louise slowly walks away to the next enclosure.

79 EXT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, TIERGARTEN, MORNING

Franz follows behind Marie-Louise, catches up - takes her

arm.

FRANZ

...he was also held in high

esteem at Court here. It was said

he was a courageous soldier, a

man of great character and

intelligence, a highly skilled

diplomat and negotiator...

MARIE-LOUISE

...he was those things and more.

When you were younger you sought

his advice on more than one

occasion. He was greatly moved by

your letters.

FRANZ

The General offered some wise

counsel that is true and spoke of

the armies he commanded, the

battles where he triumphed. BUT

all that was incomparable to

those of the great Napoleon!

Mother, why are we speaking of

Von Neipperg?

MARIE-LOUISE

I said he was many things.

Including my husband.

54.

Franz stops walking.

MARIE-LOUISE

It was never meant...we were

married and...

FRANZ

(angry)

I beg your pardon: husband?!

Franz walks away, his right hand becomes a fist.


Franz spins around, faces Marie-Louise. His fist clenches

/ unclenches.

FRANZ

When did this HAPPY event occur?

I do not remember receiving THAT

invitation.

MARIE-LOUISE

The actual WHEN isn’t important

but that it did...

FRANZ

(angry)

Of course it is. What else are

you keeping from me mother?! Tell

me!

MARIE-LOUISE

Calm yourself, you are becoming

hysterical.

Franz takes a step back. He closes his eyes for a BEAT.

FRANZ

(slowly)

I need your honesty. Was my

father’s corpse cold before you

involved yourself with

this...man?

MARIE-LOUISE

Haven’t I already told you: show

some respect.

FRANZ

Respect?! That word has no

meaning now!

MARIE-LOUISE

Franz...

55.

FRANZ

(pacing backwards and

forwards)

Were you lovers when Napoleon was

forlorn and forgotten - by some,

obviously - on a rock in the

middle of the ocean? Was the

one-eyed General warming himself

in your bed?!

MARIE-LOUISE

I will not answer that...

She walks away.


Franz grabs her arm, turns her so they are face to face.

FRANZ

(furious)

DID YOU BETRAY MY FATHER, YOUR

HUSBAND, WITH THIS ANIMAL?!

MARIE-LOUISE

(crying)

Yes, yes, yes!

He lets go of her, she backs away. Franz shakes, his face

red. He bends over and starts to cough.

MARIE-LOUISE

(approaching but keeping her

distance)

Franz, please son, calm down.

Breathe, breathe, please breathe.

His coughing continues; slowly he controls himself. He

stands up, adjusts his hair, his clothes, he wipes his

face. He stares blankly at his mother. He motions to the

enclosure behind him.

FRANZ

(calm)

I called the General an animal.

That was incorrect, I respect

animals.

He walks towards her, she backs away slightly. He kisses

both her cheeks.

FRANZ

Good day, Your Majesty.

He bows his head and walks away.

56.

MARIE-LOUISE

Don’t leave like this! FRANZ!

She watches as he MARCHES off into the distance.

82 EXT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, COURTYARD - DAY

Franz MARCHES into the Courtyard, towards the Palace.

Sophie’s carriage is being packed by the LADIES-IN-WAITING

and COACHMEN, Sophie watches and tells them where to put

her trunks and belongings. She approaches Franz.

SOPHIE

You’ve been riding?

FRANZ

What? Earlier...why?

SOPHIE

Your cheeks are flushed.

FRANZ

I have been with my mother. She

told me about her dead...husband.

Sophie pulls Franz out of ear-shot of her Staff.

SOPHIE

She loved him very much. She was

devastated when he died. Such a

horrible illness.

FRANZ

She loved my father. I do not

remember any such devastation

when he died. You knew about this

marriage?

SOPHIE

(looking away)

Eventually yes.

FRANZ

You didn’t think to tell me?

SOPHIE

They didn’t want you upset.

FRANZ

They? Everyone knew but me...

SOPHIE

They said it was in your best

interests, they wanted to protect

you.

57.

FRANZ

Protect? What am I - a broken

toy?

SOPHIE

Don’t think like that, you were

younger and...

FRANZ

...and what? I wasn’t capable of

comprehending?

SOPHIE

They should have said something -

I agree. She did love him...

FRANZ

The General or my father?

SOPHIE

Both, but differently perhaps.

Politics can be complicated at

the best of times.

FRANZ

Politics? Whatever the General

could offer or whatever THEY

thought he could offer - he was

not a great man like my father.

SOPHIE

Don’t be too hard on your mother

or yourself. Try to understand

from her point of view...

FRANZ

(thinking)

Perhaps. Accept my apologies for

my harsh words last evening. I

should have shown you more

respect.

SOPHIE

(kissing his cheek)

No apology is needed. I promise I

won’t keep anything from you

again.

FRANZ

Then we depart as friends?

She grabs his hands, squeezes them.

SOPHIE

Always.

58.

83 EXT. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, COURTYARD - DAY

Franz and Sophie walks towards her carriage.

FRANZ

I’d better ready myself for the

journey to Gratz.

He helps her into the carriage; she pulls the door behind

her.

SOPHIE

See you this evening!

He waves as the carriage pulls away. He heads into the

Palace.


Franz searches through his books, papers and

correspondence. He finds the letters from Neipperg - he

reads them, then RIPS them into pieces. He slumps into his

chair and begins to CRY.

Legend: Gratz

85 INT. HAPSBURG PALACE, BALLROOM / DINING ROOM - NIGHT

The Ballroom is full of Dignitaries, Military Officers,

Royal Family Members and various Lords and Ladies. Francis

and Karoline sit at the far end in a discussion with

Sophie and Franz-Karl.

A small ORCHESTRA plays SALIERI: LA FUGA

Some People are DANCING, others sit at their tables.

SERVING STAFF walk around with trays of champagne.

Franz enters. He goes to the seating plan which is

displayed on an ornate trestle. He is acknowledged by

several Officers who enter behind him.

Near a table Prokesch stands talking to COUNTESS ISABELLA

MOLYNEUX.

Franz leaves the Officers - walks across the Ballroom

towards Francis - he bows.

Molyneux continues to speak to Prokesch who nods several

times in politeness. Whilst she is distracted, Prokesch

looks at the place names on the table. He sees that she is

sitting next to him, he swaps the names so that Franz is

now there.

59.

86 INT. HAPSBURG PALACE, BALLROOM / DINING ROOM - NIGHT

Franz shakes hands with various Dignitaries / Officers.

They look happy to make his acquaintance. As Franz

approaches his table, Molyneux goes to turn but Prokesch

blocks her. He bows.

In the B/GRND - the Orchestra stops playing, People move

to their respective chairs and sit down.

PROKESCH

Your Highness. Congratulations on

your promotion. I’ve been

following your military career

with interest - I was there for

your exam, you led your troop

admirably. It reminded me of your

father. It was a shame about the

floods...

FRANZ

My father? You flatter me too

much.

PROKESCH

Not at all. Look, the gods have

smiled favourably, we are sitting

together.

He pulls out a chair for Franz. Molyneux is about to

complain but an Italian Officer - LIEUTENANT-GENERAL

ALBERTO SORDI-CONI - catches her eye - he helps her into

her chair.

PROKESCH

We haven’t been correctly

introduced. I am Major Anton

Prokesch. It is an honour to meet

you, the son of the great

Napoleon.

the duke of reichstadt v1 by dean drinkel and romain ...littlenapoleonfilms.com/dean/son v1.pdf ·...

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