Closely Watched Trains (1966)

Vlastimil Brodský: rada Zednícek

Quotes 

• rada Zednícek : The situation of our armies, fighting for the welfare of all the nations of Europe, whether they like it or not, is most favorable.

  [pointing on a map] 

  rada Zednícek : Here we've been forced to pull back somewhat, but here our armies have made a tactical retreat from the Baltics. Here we have a marvelous tactical withdrawal from the Dnieper to the Danube. Here a tactical retreat from the Americans into Belgium. And here a masterful tactical maneuver in Italy.

  výpravcí Hubicka : But why?

  rada Zednícek : Good question. Why? Because we're luring our enemies into a trap. Don't you see? Pay close attention. Here we land at the enemy's rear. Here we take the Russians in the Caucasus from Turkey and in Petrograd from Sweden. Here we circumvent the enemy, landing in Sicily, and here at the Americans' rear in France. Then we have them trapped and close in from both sides.

  výpravcí Hubicka : Why?

  rada Zednícek : So that we can all live happily.

• rada Zednícek : You think I'm here to help you find prostitutes?

• rada Zednícek : The noblest blood in Europe is going to the front to fight for peace on your behalf. Putting their lives - and blood - on the line. And how do you show your thanks to the Reich? One puts stamps all over the telegraphist's behind, and the other one slits his wrists over some girl.

• rada Zednícek : If anyone at the station neglects their duties they will be sentenced to ten years. In aggravated circumstances, life, or even death. That's all there is to it. A few Czech chauvinists think they can turn back the tide of history, but the Führer means everyone well, including the Czechs, and believes in a Providence that will not forsake us.

• rada Zednícek : We must pay special attention to closely watched trains. Understood?

• rada Zednícek : Teens barely out of the Hitler Youth are fighting for a new Europe - a better future. And what is your family doing for Europe? Your father lies around on the sofa when he could be serving the Reich. Your grandfather tried to hypnotize the tanks sent to liberate Prague. Germany's youth bleeds on the battlefield while Milos Hrma bleeds into a bordello bathtub. But I'll straighten you out. Do you realize I can have you charged with self-mutilation with intent to avoid service in defense of the Reich?

• rada Zednícek : You know what Czechs are? Grinning beasts.