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In 2003 a coalition led by the U.S.A. enters war with Saddam Hussein's Iraq.
The country is occupied.
There are daily attacks on military contingents
and kidnappings of journalists and humanitarian operators.
Like other nations in the coalition,
Italy pays a high price in terms of human lives.
Iraqi Resistance regards the Western world as enemies.
Baghdad, March 4, 2005
Hi, Kilian.
- The car? - Ready.
A Toyota Corolla, the most anonymous here.
We have identity badges and I got satellite phones from the Americans.
- It's just Kilian and me. - Okay.
The numbers are saved.
- Where are we? - South Baghdad.
This is the Route Irish, the Vernon is down there...
Nicola!
We're heading to the appointment district, Mr. Director, sir.
We should arrive in...
Twenty minutes.
I'll call when we get there.
Okay, talk to you later.
They've landed?
They're in the car, headed to the appointment.
- Where? - Al-Mansour.
I'm going to the Capitol Seat.
Turn on the hazard lights so they'll notice us.
We're half an hour early.
Nicola, it's me, we received the tip from an informant who is in Baghdad.
He says that the meeting place is another.
If we go there we will end up in an ambush.
28 DAYS EARLIER
- Here are the last things. - What are they?
Ski boots, eh?
Why do we always bring all this if we can rent it?
- Then why did we buy it? - I wonder that too.
Right.
- Hand me that? - See Pepe?
C'mon, let's go!
We did it.
Forget anything?
You're sure? Let's go.
We have arrived.
BAGHDAD - REFUGEE CAMP
- Hello. - Hello.
Documents.
- Who's she? - An Italian journalist.
She works for a friendly paper, Il Manifesto .
Wait here.
- Park over there. - Thank you.
BAGHDAD - U.S.A. COMPOUND
Heads up, soldiers!
Go, go, go, go.
Come on, faster!
We don't have all day! Move, move!
Those bombs melt skin, flesh, muscles.
This only leaves bones.
- Giuliana, it's late, we have to go. - Just a second.
Did you see this with own eyes? Tell me.
Giuliana, we had only half an hour!
We have to go, Giuliana!
Okay, let's go.
Barbara, it's Giuliana. I'm running a little late.
Are you already at lunch?
I'm on my way.
- Why can't we have a dog? - We'll walk him.
I know how it'll go.
You'll do it the first month, then every morning and evening...
I said we'll do it!
- C'mon! - I promise.
- We promise! - Promises, oaths!
My friend Francesca always walks her dog. If she does it, so can I.
Director, sir!
Nicola, bad news, they kidnapped another journalist in Baghdad.
- How long ago was that? - About half an hour ago.
You have to handle this for me.
I need a few hours to get back to Rome.
I understand... make it as fast as you can.
Alright.
I'm sorry, the vacation...
is postponed, I have to get back to the office.
- Meaning? - Postponed?
Why? Tell us why?
A problem at work. They need me.
They suddenly need you?
He's not talking.
How is it, with you, we can never plan?
Things are all so mysterious, never an explanation!
- Never a word. - Silvia, stop!
That's no way to talk to your father.
Okay, it's important, but you could say a word or two.
At least to the kids.
We'll talk about it later.
ROME - IL MANIFESTO HEAD OFFICE
- Hello? - I heard Giuliana's been kidnapped.
I want to know if it's true.
COMPANION TO GIULIANA SGRENA
I'll put Polo on.
Gabriele?
Pier's on the phone, he just heard about Giuliana.
Put him on.
EDITOR OF IL MANIFESTO
Pier!
Hi.
Yes...
We checked it out, the news is true.
I'm sorry.
Pier?
- Where's Chiarini? - In Jordan.
Find him, his contacts might be useful.
I'll call Pier back, he's not answering.
Out, all of you!
Fast!
Good, it seems you speak Arabic.
What? I don't understand...
- The TV says you know Arabic. - I don't understand...
On the TV! You talk Arabic.
- No, I don't speak... - You're a spy.
Absolutely not... I'm a journalist! I swear... I don't speak Arabic.
Shut up!
Go there!
If you want to kill me, do it now.
I know you won't let me go, I have seen your faces.
Do it now!
- Antonio, make sure Nicola eats. - Bye, kids.
In emergencies, he even forgets to drink.
I'll see to it, ma'am.
Go, bye.
Bye.
See? She's smiling. He ruins our vacation, she's smiling.
Have we got everything?
ROME - FORT BRASCHI MILITARY INTELLIGENCE SISMI HEAD OFFICE
The first thing is to find a channel.
Previous kidnapping channels haven't always proven valid.
Nibbio, you know that. Baldoni's dead.
With Baldoni the channel wasn't the problem, you know better than me.
There were communication problems.
The ones we've used have always proven valid.
Instead I think it's pinpointing the prison via the CIA and attempting a blitz.
I can move with my team right away.
If there's a chance to negotiate, let's negotiate.
I agree with Nicola.
You have carte blanche.
You actually saw her?
Yes. The other day when we made the exchange.
-I came immediately to Baghdad. - You're in Baghdad now?
Yes, but Secret Services want me on a plane to Rome.
- Why? - My safety!
I've been in the Middle East for ages,
I may be the only one with contacts to get to Giuliana.
Anyway, be careful.
Gabriele, don't worry! I'll call when I dig up something.
I have to try all paths. Bye.
- Thank you. - You're welcome.
I'll get my suitcase
and be right with you.
Thank you.
C'mon, the latest update, the Chief's coming.
Nothing new but we're following closely.
Here I am.
- Hi. - Let's take stock of the situation.
We have news of movement in the district where Sgrena was kidnapped.
The same area where journalist Florence Aubenas was kidnapped last month.
- You contacted French Intelligence? - Yes, but they have no other information.
What happened to her driver and interpreter?
They were both spared, the interpreter is totally trustworthy,
all the journalists know and trust him.
The CIA questioned the driver, it seems he's clean.
We'll take the Sunni religious channel used in previous kidnappings.
Find the Urema leader: Al Kubaisi.
- I'll call right now. - Then pass him to me.
Nicola, there's something else!
Il Manifesto correspondent, Chiarini,
we told him to come back, but he's vanished.
That's all we need!
Omero, call Tiber, tell him to find him.
Right away.
You're sure my car's okay?
Don't say I don't care about you, Ryan!
Don't complain.
I don't like you, Mohamed, not one bit!
The car's perfect!
You'll see!
Hello?
Hi Tiber, it's Omero.
Hi, Omero. How are things?
- Fine, thanks. - What is it?
You have to help me find a certain Stefano Chiarini.
He's a journalist there in Baghdad.
Can you? It's urgent.
Okay, I'll look for him.
DAY TWO OF IMPRISONMENT
One...
and two.
- ...of the last two days. - Okay. Perfect.
- Here it is. - Thank you.
Take it all to the Chief.
Here you are, Jeco. Is this complete? Is it everything?
Yes!
For you.
Tiber says the man's an ex-Sunni politician.
- In the same party as Saddam. - Good!
We have more data on Sgrena.
From Piedmont, war correspondent, been to the worst places on earth.
- Family, kids? - A companion.
But they all say her real family is Il Manifesto.
A committed activist, highly esteemed by the paper's ex-director Valentino Parlato.
- Who's the director now? - Gabriele Polo.
Knows all about workers, factory political struggles, Unions.
- His number's right there. - Fine. Thank you.
Solidarity of Rome for Giuliana Sgrena,
correspondent for Il Manifesto , kidnapped yesterday in Baghdad.
Outside the Capitol are friends, colleagues and pacifist organizations,
five, six thousand people, here to urge her immediate release.
Giuliana Sgrena's bright eyes observe Capitol Square,
packed with friends, colleagues, pacifists, volunteers,
common people, with a single request: free a woman of peace.
Please, please!
Give me some paper please!
To write!
Please, I need it!
Read this.
- What is it? - The only book in this house.
In Arabic!
I told you I don't speak Arabic!
I can't read it!
Hi.
- Still awake? - You too.
What's he doing?
Sleeping.
What's the situation like?
We're still far off, there are no claims of responsibility.
Actually, there are many, but none are credible.
You look tired.
You too.
I'm going on with work since the vacation's off.
Have you eaten anything?
Yeah, something.
Let's go to bed.
I can't carry you anymore.
Get up and walk.
Keep your eyes closed, I'll guide you.
- Goodnight. - Night.
- Papa! - Hi.
Take a look here!
I haven't seen this for ages!
- It was a nice vacation. - Wonderful!
We take no more vacations like that, you never have time...
I'll find the time.
I just have a few things to take care of.
Meantime, find a place for serious diving.
- I already know. - Where?
The Red Sea, obviously! Beautiful.
When's the best period?
Why?
- Just tell me the best period. - Between September and October.
- Done. - Yeah, sure...
- October, the Red Sea. - Careful, I might believe it!
You'd better!
- October. - Promise.
- Hello? - Hello, this is Nicola Calipari.
I direct the SISMI Research Office,
I'm handling Giuliana Sgrena's kidnapping and I'd like to meet you.
- Yes, when? - Even immediately.
Okay, the time for a shower.
I'm right outside, I'll wait.
Coming.
We're looking for a channel to negotiate, but it's not easy.
The first days of a kidnapping are the most delicate.
If a hostage gets through them, he's likely to come out alive.
Why tell me this?
Because we have to work together to save Giuliana's life.
And we do it by sharing information.
I'd say you're in the wrong profession.
How so?
Secret Services work like you journalists: on information.
We divulge it, you hide it.
- You're the cesspool of information. - Time ago!
Less now.
Now we're trying to produce security.
And security strengthens only by circulating information.
At least that's how I see it.
The government's activated a Crisis Unit.
Sometimes we might need to talk to you as well.
But for the moment,
and for Giuliana's welfare, keep my words to yourself.
Certainly! Meantime, the paper will go on with its mobilization campaign
to let the kidnappers know Giuliana's not a spy.
That's exactly the collaboration I'm asking.
Thank you.
Can we drop formalities?
Yes, sure.
I have another favor to ask.
Convince your correspondent in Baghdad, Chiarini, to return to Italy.
Okay.
- Maestro! - Professor, what brings you here?
Tiber, don't bullshit me.
Why do Secret Services want me back in Italy?
I'm just doing my part to help Giuliana
and get support from the local people.
They know that very well!
But they also know you have a channel to get information on Sgrena:
the politician!
Politician?
The one you met at the cafe.
But he's just a friend.
Think I'm the Baghdad idiot?
I know everything.
Can this contact find a hook to the kidnappers?
He doesn't work for the army.
He doesn't, but maybe the kidnappers are ex military,
loyal to Saddam
and maybe he knows someone in there.
Maybe, but we'd have to convince him.
Remind him that Sgrena is a friend of the Iraqi people,
that she's against the shit Americans who act like lords in our house.
You've really become an Iraqi!
Tiber, I'm here with Nibbio, you're on speakerphone.
Sir, how are things?
Could be better. And you?
Eking along like all the poor, as my father would say.
Any news?
I just spoke to Chiarini.
Through his contact, he may have a possible mediator.
At what level?
Someone who can take Chiarini to talk to the kidnappers.
- But maybe it's too dangerous. - No! Stop him!
We can't send a journalist to talk to terrorists.
Does Chiarini already have an appointment with this someone?
- Seems so, tomorrow evening. - Get him to say where.
And I'll go to the appointment in his place.
Okay, got it.
Chiarini, let's go!
Italy thanks you for the contact and for your work
but they say it's not safe.
I told them you know your stuff, but it's too risky.
Come to the point.
We take you to the airport and you go home.
But with honor!
The only honor is to do my job right, help people.
You're taking that away.
No, it's a government disposition.
The situation is too ugly, all journalists have to leave.
Tell me, why end up like your colleague?
You've always been a gentleman.
Take care.
You too.
- Tiber? - Nibbio!
How nice to see you, sir!
The man told Chiarini on the phone his name's Tariq,
he's set up an appointment in an area under construction.
- When? - In four hours. Do I come too?
Yes, and bring your camera.
DAY FIVE OF IMPRISONMENT
- What's wrong? - I need to talk to a woman.
Why a woman?
I have a women's problem. I need to talk to a woman, please.
Okay, I understand you.
Like I told you, I know people who know some people,
I can find the contacts you are looking for.
So you don't have any real contact.
- You're just wasting my time. - Wait...
Believe me, I can reach the people holding the woman.
- In return, what's in it for me? - What do you want?
I need two generators to irrigate my fields.
Everything is dying, because of the war, because of the Americans.
I'll find you the generators. Let's meet here, tomorrow, same time.
- Not here. - Why not? Trust me.
No, I don't trust you!
I'll find where you stay.
I'm at the Bahji Hotel.
Hello, Nibbio.
Hi Clayton, everything okay?
Everything's fine, yeah, thanks for asking. Say hi to Peter.
- Hi, Peter! - Hi.
Shall we sit down at the hotel? I can offer you something to drink.
No, man, I don't drink on the job. It's unprofessional.
Okay, so... What's up? What do you need to tell me?
That we've located the journalist's prison maybe.
Maybe? What does it mean, "maybe"? Are you passing on the information or...
What it means is that you should probably wait
until we're done what it is that we need to do,
perhaps we can save you some unnecessary risks.
Don't worry about me.
I think I found a lead, I just need some time and we'll free the journalist.
We're CIA, man, we're faster, you know that.
- Do you have the location? - Yes sir!
- Where did you get it from? - From a damn terrorist. It's in here.
I asked you a fucking question, you son of a bitch!
Tell me where it is!
Stop I give up! Please! Stop! I tell you...
Right, did you hear what he just said?
He just said where she's being held captive, that's not enough for you?
No. A tortured man will say whatever you're asking to say.
Did you hear this?
Old Nibbio's got some extra aces up his sleeve, I see. Alright. Let's hear.
I have nothing certain, but I know a raid is dangerous.
Moreover, if you were really sure of the information,
you wouldn't have come to sleep on it, you would have just acted,
plain and simple, like you've done before.
Exactly, we're just informing you, buddy. That's all.
That's very kind of you, but don't create problems for me, okay?
It's not the first time you've messed up.
I'm almost there, can you avoid this nonsense?
Nicola. Now you should know by now that Peter and I,
we don't make these decisions. Our hands are tied.
Wait outside.
Here are some pads, shampoo, and a toothbrush.
You take, use these and be careful not to stain.
Who are you?
- Change your clothes and put these on. - What's your name?
You can call me Karima.
If you're going to be here for long, I'll bring you more changes.
Wait! Wait...
Are they going to kill me?
Nothing has been decided about you yet.
Get up, get up!
The room is secured.
The Americans are rash!
As I imagined, the blitz failed.
They alarmed the kidnappers who might then decide
to get rid of the hostage.
What now?
I don't know.
The hook was to get in touch, but it's been hours.
I'd say that path is closed.
I sent his picture, did you check?
Yes, but we can't name him.
- Nicola, it's Omero. - What is it?
Recall that Hamra district police captain?
Oh, right! Hassan.
We have to see if he's been purged too.
Back then he was one of the few Sunni still at his job.
It's an idea, if he's still there, I'll go see him.
Okay. Bye.
Guys, let's go.
As ordered.
Goodbye.
- Hi. - Hi.
Thank you for meeting me so quickly.
- How I can I help you? - I need your help, Hassan.
I'm looking for this man.
He should own a farm somewhere, outside the city maybe. Can you find him?
Why are you looking for him?
For a reason that the Americans shouldn't know about.
You can't do anything in Baghdad without them knowing, you know that.
If they are not to know you just don't tell them.
I don't know, Nicola.
You are one of the few remaining Sunnis in your position.
Don't you want to do anything for your people?
I would, of course I would, but come on now.
Listen. I know your son has a serious illness.
I know that here treatment's difficult, many things are lacking.
Wouldn't you want to take him to Italy and have him treated
at the Bambin Gesù Pediatric Hospital in Rome,
which is one of the best in the world?
I cannot leave from here, they won't let me leave Iraq.
I know you can't, but your wife can.
She can accompany him and stay with him until he recovers.
I'll take care of everything, don't worry. You know me.
Please Hassan... help me to find him...
Tariq!
How did you find me?
We have some friends in common. Listen...
No, I don't want to listen to you.
Tariq, listen to me, please.
The attack on that house last night wasn't the work of Italians.
We had nothing to do with it.
Yes, you did. You and the Americans are one, are the same.
I found you the generators and I can arrange for a well to be dug.
And who says you will actually do it?
No one. My word. I can provide water and electricity, believe me.
What happened last night won't happen again.
You have to say that we are ready to negotiate,
but to do so we need something concrete.
A photo, a video would be even better.
But you have to move right away and fast.
- Give me two days. - No, I can give you one.
Twenty-four hours from now, then I am going back to Italy.
Is it a deal?
It's a deal.
DAY SEVEN OF IMPRISONMENT
- Wear those. - What do you want from me?
Take her in there.
You must ask your government to withdraw the troops, in your language.
But I am a journalist from a smallpositioned newspaper,
why would they listen to me?
Because they must understand that the war continues.
Because we Iraqis also have the right to fight, to liberate our country,
as was done in Vietnam and Algeria.
Resistance is the right of every people, I agree with you.
I don't care that you agree. Do as I say.
Let me make an appeal not only to the government
but to all forces fighting against the war. Maybe then they will listen to me.
Okay. Record.
Since the end of January, I've been here
to attest the state of this population, dying every day.
Thousands have no food, lights or water.
I beg you to end the occupation.
I ask this of the Italian government.
I ask the Italian people to pressure the government.
This people mustn't suffer like this any longer.
Withdraw the troops from Iraq. Help me...
Please, help me.
Beg your husband... beg your family.
No, no, I don't want... please... Isn't it enough?
You do not comment on our demands. You must only do what we order you to do.
Don't you understand that your life hangs by a thread?
Pier, help me.
You've always been with me in all my battles.
Show my pictures of the children hit by cluster bombs,
the women.
I'm counting on you, you are my only hope, Pier.
I beg you to help me, please!
Come in.
- How do you do? Nicola Calipari. - Pier Scolari.
Please, have a seat.
I ask this of the Italian government.
I ask the Italian people to pressure the government.
This people mustn't suffer like this any longer.
Withdraw the troops from Iraq.
Help me.
Pier, help me.
You've always been with me in all my battles, please help me.
Pier, please help me.
Show my pictures of the children hit by cluster bombs,
the women.
I'm counting on you, you're my only hope, Pier.
I beg you to help me, please!
Videos like this don't serve at all
in asking for troop withdrawal.
The kidnappers know they'd never get it.
So, why do it?
To prove the hostage is alive and to open a channel.
You can give us a hand.
How?
Giuliana speaks of cluster bombs, and her photos
of women and children hit by these bombs.
We published them immediately after the bombing of Hilla.
Publish them again.
- The same pictures? - Yes.
The kidnappers and Giuliana will know the message was received
and hopefully they'll make contact soon.
Pier, be strong.
We'll bring her home.
"OUR VOICE"
Tiber, what is it?
Got it, thank you.
We have the address.
Off to the DIGOS, special ops.
We saw the video, it's the proof we were waiting for.
We're lacking a hook, a meeting proposal.
The proposal just came in from one of our sources.
- From Baghdad? - Yes, but the meeting's in Dubai.
- In Dubai? With who? - They're not saying for now.
They just said at the port, pier five.
Do you feel safe with this meeting?
No.
But at the moment, it's our only path.
DUBAI
Here he is.
Go.
- Good morning! - Morning.
Thank you.
Welcome to Dubai.
My name is hard for you to pronounce.
You can call me Mr. Simbel.
- Would you prefer to speak in English? - Yes thank you.
You assure me that you fully represent your country?
Of course. I am a General of the Italian Armed Forces
and I am here on behalf on my government.
Enjoy tea.
Thank you.
I have to leave, it's prayer time.
Tell me something about Mrs. Sgrena. She well?
Afterwards I will tell you what you ask for, but prayer cannot wait.
Zahid, Kilian, you're not needed.
Wait downstairs.
Lemon or milk?
Well, it comforts me to know that Giuliana Sgrena is well,
but the price of the ransom is very high.
I don't like the term ransom.
Choose a better one.
Exchange.
Agreed. The price of the 'exchange' is very high.
Maybe,
but what the Iraqi people are paying for this war
is infinitely more and far more painful.
Moreover the disastrous American decision
to eliminate the Sunnis from the political scene
and to form a government of only Shiites
complicates everything.
Look at me, I'm Iraqi
and Sunni.
I was an important manager.
I would like to participate in the new democratic life of Iraq,
and instead I am here in exile
without having committed any crime.
Are you telling me all this
because you would like to return to the political scene of your country?
I'm telling you something more, sir.
I'm telling you that Italy
could be the political interlocutor for the Sunnis.
It could mediate between us and the Americans.
If this were to happen, we could immediately stop the attacks,
the kidnappings, and whatever else.
DAY TWELVE OF IMPRISONMENT
Free Giuliana! Free Giuliana!
Hello?
Hi Gabriele, I'm here at the demonstration.
Where are you?
To your left.
Coming.
Hi.
I'm here to inform you negotiations have begun.
- Really? - Yes.
- That's real news! - Not to divulge.
Yes, I can imagine.
The problem is the kidnappers want,
besides money, political compensation.
And you?
What do you think about this compensation?
It's necessary.
As long as the Sunni feel excluded, no peace is possible.
- Do the Americans agree? - No.
They think a divided Arab world is easier to control.
FREE HER
Thanks for informing me.
The march is about to start, coming?
No.
But my daughter might come, even if I said not to.
I'd bet 99.9% she didn't listen.
Bye.
Hi.
I see you listened to me!
No, I didn't. So?
What's the problem?
The problem is: I said not to go.
- Why not? It was too dangerous? - Yes, it could have been.
You talk about danger?
Papa, I know what you do, it's useless acting like this.
I don't live on another planet, I watch TV... I know.
What's that got to do with...
It does! Being in the march was my way of participating in her liberation.
Struck down and sunk.
I'm drowning.
What's so funny?
Aren't today's kids growing up too fast?
- I wasn't so smart at her age. - Well, I was sharp as a tack.
Girls are way ahead.
Yeah, this thing about women: they're tops in everything. I give up!
- She's a woman, be resigned. - A woman!
At 18 you're not a woman, you're still a kid.
DAY FOURTEEN OF IMPRISONMENT
Okay, I'll wait.
You were praying.
Yes. You don't pray?
No. I don't.
What's the reason?
Because I don't believe in any God.
It's because you're communist? As the TV says.
No, it's not because of that.
Okay, I'm done. Thank you.
Try to finish it.
But... even Italy wants peace, I assure you.
I have conveyed your point of view to the highest levels,
but the government's position is very clear: we cannot be your interlocutor.
Our government cannot do that, however...
Your government lacks courage!
But I, perhaps, could arrange for you a passport.
Explain yourself better.
A passport to come to us, to give lectures,
foster relationships and advocate the Sunni cause.
A passport could be an interesting solution.
- And the money? - In addition to the money, of course.
But, at this point, the figure need to be lowered.
What is your final request?
They still want $12 million,
I can get this figure down. But political recognition remains.
No recognition to those who kidnap journalists and slit their throats.
We could make one simple gesture
but very important for the Sunni manager I'm negotiating with.
I was thinking...
we could get him a passport to come to Italy,
therefore to Europe, where he could hold conferences, meetings
and speak for the 30% of Sunni population
that the American administration has totally put aside.
With Saddam gone, logically the administrative structure has changed.
I know, but...
opening negotiations with the Sunni
would mean making an inroad.
We, the government, could offer the Americans
a window on talks with the minority that's organizing armed resistance,
carrying out attacks and kidnappings.
Sensible, I'd say.
However, before deciding we must refer it to Prime Minister Berlusconi.
I'll see to that.
Mr. Calipari, thank you for all you do.
We realize how difficult it is.
Thank you.
Goodbye.
It went quite well.
I'm convinced the Prime Minister will back us on this.
Let's hope so.
Giulio, what do you say?
I still have my doubts.
Before the meeting, I spoke with the American Embassy.
They're against paying.
Officially they are, but they too pay under the table.
Yes, but done through a friendly state.
What matters to them is to be unwavering in public opinion.
The world knows they don't negotiate.
In fact, many of their hostages have been horribly slain.
Doesn't public opinion count in these cases?
Certainly it does!
Besides, who is this Mr. Simbel?
His guarantees?
How do you know he's not toying with us?
We'll pay? Spread the word and see how many Mr. Simbels pop up!
I regard every kidnapping as an episode of war.
I always try to do two things:
free the hostage and take a step closer to the war's end.
So, you're a pacifist undercover and I didn't know!
Touché!
If the government okays it, we'll go as proposed at the Ministry.
- Who's left in Dubai? - Omero.
As soon as this unblocks, I'll go back too.
Meantime, I'm taking time off tonight.
Good for you!
Pull over when you can, I'll get out.
ITALIAN RED CROSS
They're sleeping!
The next time you propose an action film, I swear, I'll ask for a divorce.
What harm have they done to you?
This one was nice,
well-made, simple.
Even too much so!
- What was the alternative? - A Kiarostami film.
His films are all alike!
A guy goes along Iranian dusty roads, from village to village, without a word.
Wonderful.
Know why I still like you so much?
Why?
Because after all these years, you still open the door for me.
- Omero, here I am. - Hi.
- Today Mr. Simbel is super pissed off. - What happened?
He says we didn't keep the pact, we're double-crossing him.
Double-crossing? I don't understand!
He wouldn't tell me more.
He was livid, he'll talk only if you call.
- Right away. - Okay.
- Hello! - Mister, what's wrong?
I am very disappointed.
- You do not trust me... - What are you talking about? We trust you.
Why are you also negotiating with others?
The negotiation is under my responsibility.
And there are no others in progress!
And the Red Cross?
The Red Cross? I don't know anything about it, I assure you.
But give me some time now, not much.
Time to understand and I call you back, okay?
Okay.
The mediator I found is about to back out
because yesterday someone made a move, without informing me.
Actually, with precise intention of not informing me!
Why not try other ways? The more attempts, the better.
It's just the opposite!
The more the attempts, the more the confusion!
- Who evaluates this confusion? You? - Yes, me!
First, the Director put me in charge,
second, in the terrorists' eyes, we're double-crossing them.
We can't lose credibility and put the hostage in danger.
Third, Sgrena's companion and Il Manifesto put their trust in me!
A Communist paper that sells 30 thousand copies? Oh, c'mon!
Italian pacifists are with Il Manifesto .
Millions of them!
Millions of our citizens who don't support the war, don't believe in it
and think it's an American ploy to grab Iraqi oil.
We fuck them too?
That's enough!
Let's not argue among ourselves as time's racing!
First thing, Nicola, restore your contact.
Do it now!
I have respected the pacts, can I explain?
Yes.
What happened, could happen again!
No. I assure you, there will be no more interference.
But it's been too long now, I need proof that the hostage is still alive.
Without proof, we stop here.
- You will have your proof. - Thank you.
DAY TWENTY OF IMPRISONMENT
You've lost too much weight. You need to eat.
I can't. I can't do anything other than cry.
You should instead, it helps.
Thanks to you I've run out of tears.
I have nothing against you, but you are part of the invaders.
If what you're saying is true, if you really feel some pitying...
I didn't mention pity! And I'm not here to talk to you.
You have to write a letter to your husband.
It must contain personal references, things that only you and he would know.
- Who's asking for this letter? - That's none of your concern.
Is there a negotiation, isn't there? Is my government negotiating?
I don't know, it's not up to me.
But it's true, you know it's true. Give me some hope.
Write the letter.
- Read this... - What is it?
During the Ashura Festival a suicide bomber...
You have to mention in your letter that you are aware of this fact.
It's to prove that today you are still alive.
What's the matter?
Nothing.
- Why do you ask? - Because I know you.
What's wrong?
I'm fed up.
I want to return to the police.
I work to save her and someone tries to step in, for notoriety.
- Let them. What do you care? - No!
- Why not? - I have to do it.
I know I can, just as other times, I will this time too,
with the same, identical method.
Can't you swallow your pride and let another team do this?
It's not a matter of pride. The other team would follow the American line.
They'd try a spectacular action but people can get killed.
Maybe the hostage.
Sorry.
Is that her handwriting?
Yes.
It's her, I'm sure.
I recognize the way she writes my name,
the odd P that only she makes.
Good.
It's a great step forward.
And now? How do you proceed?
I'll leave tomorrow to wrap it up, but I'll keep you informed.
Thank you.
My thanks to you.
You know, if all goes well,
the Prime Minister you're fighting will be the first to claim the success?
I know... but I won't have to hug him, right?
Well, maybe he'll hug you.
You can be my bodyguard to avoid that.
No promises.
He's rather exuberant.
When all this is over, we'll take the wives to dinner
and make small talk.
Yeah.
So, you go tomorrow.
Let's say that tomorrow I'll get a little closer to Giuliana.
Trust me.
I do.
And then?
Then, what?
Will you do what you said?
- You'll go back to the police? - Yes.
You're sure?
I'm sure.
No, no, no!
A little more.
Hi.
- How are you? - Fine.
Leaving again?
Yeah.
But this is the last time.
That's what you always say.
Keep your brother on his homework, all he thinks of is soccer.
Filippo is 11, he looks out for himself.
- Don't worry. - Alright.
Okay.
You'll bring her home, right?
You'll bring her, right?
Yes, darling.
I'll bring her home.
Bye.
Bye, honey.
Be good.
You too.
Listen to me, what would you have otherwise?
Another hostage killed, no money and the reputation of your people getting worse,
even more than now. And that's not peace.
That's not the peace that you mentioned.
Okay, I accept. But on the condition...
that the passport arrives with the money, not a minute later.
And only then, you can have what you ask for. Okay?
Agreed.
- Got everything? - Yes, I checked it myself.
We go to Baghdad, Kilian's waiting there.
Alarico and Jeco go with me. Omero, stay until the exchange is done.
If I say "it's three of us", I have her.
Only then they get the briefcase.
DAY TWENTY-SEVEN OF IMPRISONMENT
Soon you'll be free.
This is a gift from our leader who has successfully negotiated your release.
Wear it when you're out and say that we treated you well.
Thank you.
I don't even know your names.
- My name is Hsien. - Hsien.
And yours?
Abbas.
Are those your real names?
Anyway, I don't think you're going to let me go.
You should.
Muslims don't lie.
Hello.
So, I'll take this...
and this.
THE LONGEST MONTH
Are you eating something?
Yes, I'm eating, don't worry.
- Can I talk to Filippo? - Filippo, papa's on the phone.
Here he is.
- Hello, papa? - Happy Birthday, buddy!
Thank you.
You feel the weight of these 12 years, eh?
Yeah, every one! It's tough.
I can understand you!
What will you do to celebrate?
Maybe later the mothers will take us bowling.
Too bad I'm not there!
Yeah, I'm sorry.
We'll do it next year, okay?
I got you a present.
- What is it? - It's a surprise!
But I'm sure you'll like it.
And not only you, but that's enough.
- I can't say anything more. - How long will I have to wait?
- Just a little, very little. - Okay.
Pass me back to mama.
Happy Birthday again, sweetheart.
Thank you papa, bye.
Mama?
- Nicola? - Rosa...
It was just to hear your voice again.
- Only one thing... - What?
Do you know why...
after all these years, I too still like you so much?
Why?
Because you take me to see those films.
Iranian, Korean, Japanese.
Not another soul could.
I super-snooze! Better than in bed!
Come back soon.
As soon as I can, my love.
Bye.
BAGHDAD - MARCH 4, 2005
They've landed?
They're in the car, headed to the appointment.
- Where? - Al-Mansour.
I'm going to the Capitol Seat.
We're half an hour early.
We wait.
- Yes. - The meeting place is elsewhere.
Where?
The informer says behind the Babylon Hotel.
- You're sure? - That's what he said.
- Yes? - Nicola, it's me.
We got a tip from an informer in Baghdad.
The meeting place has changed, it's over the river.
Where, exactly?
Behind the Babylon Hotel, there's an alley.
- Is Pollari with you? - No, he's at the Capitol Seat.
Okay.
- Yes. - Tiber, it's urgent.
I need to know if the alley behind the Babylon is safe.
It's not a nice place. Why go there?
I can't tell you.
Okay, I'll call back in ten minutes.
Move out boys!
- All right, lieutenant, let's go! - Move, move, move!
Come on! Faster! Faster!
MACHINE GUNNER US ARMY
- Tiber, well? - The situation looks ugly.
Don't even get near here.
If we go there we will end up in an ambush.
- Yes. - It's a false lead.
We take it and we're dead. Where's the information from?
It's not firsthand.
It's false! Shit! I want no more interference!
I'm on the field, I decide!
Put on these sunglasses.
If there is any check, please don't show any nervousness.
What? I don't understand.
Go in, please.
Just stay here in silence.
- We've been here too long. - I know!
Go!
Okay, boys this is it, I want to secure the location right away.
Okay, let's go, let's go, this is no joke. Keep your eyes up on the tunnel.
Sir? Is it true? This is one of the favorite spots for suicide attacks?
Don't listen to gossip.
Some people say there has been over 15.000 firefights in the last two years.
People say a lot of things.
Yeah, like our great president who declared the war was over two years ago.
- Right? - Right.
She's here.
Giuliana, my name's Nicola,
I'm Pier's friend, Gabriele's.
It's over, you're free.
I'll take you home, to Italy.
Come on!
You're with us now.
He's Kilian.
We're taking you home.
Kilian, turn on the light.
I'll sit back here with you so you're more relaxed.
Captain, we're not supposed to be here all this time?
The rules of engagement allow for a maximum of thirty minutes.
It's been two hours.
Stay there another twenty minutes. Till we come to relieve you.
Omero, it's three of us. I repeat, it's three of us.
We're in the car, we're coming back.
Okay.
Let's go.
Perfect.
I met Pier this month, we'll call him soon,
and we'll call your editor, he's been very worried too.
Good evening, Mr. Prime Minister.
Mr. Prime Minister, good evening.
Allow me to introduce the editor of Il Manifesto .
My compliments on your paper,
although you don't treat me very well, I respect your publication.
Pier Scolari, Ms. Sgrena's companion.
Your fun's over: the wife's back!
Special edition, with wonderful news.
Giuliana Sgrena has just been freed.
Mama, papa did it.
- He freed her. - Who told you?
- Now, on the news. - Okay, I'm coming back.
Captain, can you tell me what's happening?
The ambassador was supposed to pass through here, but he never showed up.
Has something happened?
The ambassador returned to Camp Victory. He took another road.
Wait, what? With all due respect, Captain, what the fuck are we still doing here?
We're less than a kilometer from the airport.
Hold on, we're almost there.
I'll have to tell Nicola about the little scene with Berlusconi.
Excuse me, I'll be right back.
Yes?
Almost there, sir.
We're a kilometer from the airport.
I'll put Calipari on.
Watch out!
Kilian?
Kilian!
We're Italian embassy, don't shoot!
Show your fucking hands!
Don't shoot! We are Italian embassy, don't shoot!
Hey! Shut up! Get out of the car, get out of the car.
Go! Get out of the car!
On your knees!
We have documents in the car, check the car.
Shut up!
Shit!
- Private, get over here. - Yes, Sir!
- Sir, are you still receiving me? - Yes.
The Americans fired at us.
Watch her head!
- Slowly! - Lay her down on the ground.
Lay her down. Watch her head!
Oh, Shit!
Sgrena's wounded, but alive.
- Give me a hand here. - Coming!
What the fuck have we done?
Calipari is dead.
Gentlemen, excuse me.
The ambassador protect operation is over, Negroponte is at headquarters.
The checkpoint can be deactivated.
Capitan we have a problem, there has been a fire fight.
- Are there any casualties? - Fuck!
None of our men but in the car there is a wounded woman.
Sir this one is badly wounded.
We need to get her to a hospital as soon as possible.
Right away!
Lieutenant!
Liutenant! We found these in the car.
He's down sir.
- The man is Italian. He's dead. - Who is he? Your husband? Your brother?
He's in civilian clothes, but on his ID it says he is a division general.
Please, let me through!
Please, everyone to the desk, all journalists out, please.
I ask my colleagues for ten minutes, please,
I need to speak to the comrades of Il Manifesto .
Gentlemen, please leave the room.
Let's go to another room.
But they have to go out!
- What's going on? - Now I'll tell you, wait.
Now I'll tell you.
Comrades, all hell broke loose.
The Americans fired at them.
They were going to the airport,
three of them in the car,
two Secret Service agents and Giuliana.
At a certain point shots were fired.
Giuliana is wounded, but she's well.
The other Secret Service agent is wounded...
Nicola Calipari is dead.
Who?
- The one who freed her is dead. - The mediator?
Yes, the mediator.
Not only, it seems this poor guy
saved her a second time, because...
he threw himself on her and took it all.
Nicola Calipari...
was a good person.
- Ada, thank you. - Good evening.
Filippo, hi.
To investigate Calipari's death
an Italian-American commission was set up.
The investigation produced two reports, contrasting on various points.
On June 19, 2006, the District Attorney requested an indictment
for machine-gunner Mario Luis Lozano.
On October 25, 2007,
the Court of Assizes declared nonsuit for "Lack of Jurisdiction".
Several months later the Supreme Court upheld.
Giuliana Sgrena lives and works in Rome and continues to be a journalist.
The President of Italy Carlo Azeglio Ciampi
awarded Nicola Calipari "motu proprio" the Gold Medal of Military Valor.
The murder of Nicola Calipari stands unpunished.
Subtitling: FAST TITLES MEDIA