Gundi: Legend of Love (2024) Movie Script

BASED ON TRUE STORY
Gundi! Gundi! Gundi!
Gundi! Gundi! Gundi!
Gundi! Gundi! Gundi!
Gundi! Gundi! Gundi!
SOFIA, 1959
Gundi
Gundi
Hey, Gundi
Well done, Gundi
Gundi
Can you hook me up with
one of your girlfriends for tonight's party?
-Do you want
the blonde or the brunette?
-I want the clever one.
Not possible!
-The clever ones are
in your fancy high school, Bobby.
-Okay. Okay.
We in 42nd High School are just pretty.
Gundi, pass the ball.
-No. Stop. Please stop.
-Koko, come on now.
-Sorry it was a volley.
-Sorry but you go in the swamp now.
What, are you mad?
In this filthy water?
It's just a ball.
What's the big deal.
An Italian ball.
They'll buy Bobby a new one.
Don't worry about him.
Yes, yes, of course.
They'll buy me a new ball.
My dad will definitely
bring the belt out this time.
Gundi, where are you going?
You know you can't swim.
-It looks shallow enough.
-Gundi, wait.
-Don't go, you'll catch a disease in this muddy swamp
No. Gundi, the water is cold.
What do you guys want?
Bobby to get claps
and we won't have a ball to play with anyway.
I'll come up with a story.
I'll lie to my dad if I have to.
You are not lying.
-Georgi, please!
-Come on now, don't do it.
-No, Gundi, wait!
-Gundi. -Georgi.
-Gosho, you can't swim. Wait, come back.
-Gundi, please, don't be an idiot!
-Gundi, come back, we'll find another ball.
I'll lie to my dad, he won't find out.
-Gundi, come back!
-We'll buy a new ball. -Hey, boy!
-We'll all chip-in and buy a new ball, Georgi.
-How are we going to buy a new ball from Italy?
-We'll buy a new one locally.
-Georgi, get back here, right now! Listen to me!
-I'm counting to 3.
1... 2...
Help! Please help us!
-Georgi, come out!
-No, where are you going, stop!
-Please let me go, I can swim, I can swim.
-No, you not going in.
-Help! Someone please help us!
-He's there, he's there.
-Okay, okay. Stop shouting!
-Okay, swim now. Like this.
-Gundi
-Well done. Just like that.
-Just swim now.
-Okay well done. Come out now.
-Come back, right now.
-Well done Gundi.
-Get the ball and come out right now.
G
GU
GUN
GUND
GUNDI
-Kircho, pass this ball.
-Pass it on.
- Well done!
Okay, show me your skills.
Come on, show me.
Okay you can go practise now.
"Slavia" are the best, Gundi.
What?
Come on now uncle Vanyo.
Off you go.
-Hi Litke.
-Wow, big bro.
-Goshe, what did you do now?
-What happened?
-Nothing. Please leave it.
-Just scratched my leg
when I was fetching the ball from the swamp.
You'll kill yourself for a ball.
-Goshe, you have a really important game on Sunday.
-Paro, bring rakia to disinfect the wound.
-Right away.
Big bro, the water in the swamp is infected.
They dump dead animals in there.
-An Italian ball, Litke!
-Go wash yourself.
-Come on, Paro!
Are you making this rakia now?
-I'm coming.
There you go.
Now after we clean the wound
you'll be able to play on Sunday, right?
Not only will I play,
I'll be on the offence.
Ahhh Goshe, don't do that.
You'll play the way the coach tells you to.
Dad, my dream is
to play in Levski's men's team.
For this to happen,
I need to score to be noticed.
-Paro, the kid's leg is all covered in blood
and you are still talking about football.
No training before he recovers.
Who knows,
what diseases were in that water.
Your mum is right.
Have a big gulp to kill all the germs. Just in case.
You'll make it to practise, right.
Well done.
Sorry, it's my first day back
after I've been out of school for a while.
You shouldn't have come back
to the sport school, girly.
You were born to be a ballerina,
not a volleyball player.
Ahh, it's rakia.
For my wound.
Ahh!
Can I have the ball, please.
Eh?
Can I have the ball, please.
You are the best!
You are welcome.
And you boy was born to be a
circus performer not a footballer.
-Do you know her?
-Mhm
We share the same desk at school.
Why haven't I seen her?
She was being home schooled for a while.
She's way out of your league.
-Well, I always did like a challenge!
-Aha
-Her dad is the chief architect of the republic.
-So what.
-Mine's the best lathe operator in Sofia.
-Okay.
-Zoro.
-Yes chief.
You are stingy.
I'm not stingy.
The party is stingy.
If you don't have anything good to say about
the party don't say anything at all, okay?
We have the youth league finals on Sunday.
This pitch is disgraceful.
Paro, you again,
what is it now?
-Gosheto, scratched his leg in the morning.
-How is he going to play on Sunday?
-No, no, he'll be fine. -It's just...
-Kotse, please let him play forward.
I can't Paro. I need a
tall central midfielder...
who can jump high like he does...
...to intercept passes.
-Okay, I understand that. I do.
But with a high jump like his
he should be scoring not intercepting.
If we become champions on Sunday
we'll talk again.
Chief,
Koko and Bobby are coming.
You still hiding it from the boys?
Of course.
We have to be role models.
True, true
-So...
-We'll talk again on Sunday
Chief.
I was joking.
I'll come there in pour the
lime over your stupid head.
See you tonight girls
Lita, you are still playing well.
Nonsense, my play was very weak.
At least you met Gundi.
I really don't understand
what you see in this... Gundi.
Come on now, don't pretend.
I'm not pretending.
I simply don't understand...
Shush!
It's starting.
-What's starting?
-Shh!
This is the new sour patch flavour.
Gundi has a really nice looking...
...body.
MAN NEVER KNOW, Vicki Baum
And he is so charming.
MAN NEVER KNOW, Vicki Baum
Yes
Lita, are you coming to the party tonight?
I can't. It was my first day back today.
The coach said that it's mandatory.
45 years since the sports club was founded.
I don't know.
and Victor, the guy I'm seeing
I'm not sure they'll let him in
if the party is for club members only.
If they don't let him in you'll be
without him then. What's the big deal?
Going to a party without a date?
How so?
Such a pretty girl without a date.
I actually have a date.
Come with me tonight.
No!
Come on player. Go Gundi.
Go Gundi.
Dear Miss
will you be as kind as you are
smart and beautiful
to allow me to be your humble date
at the upcoming juniors celebration,
honouring our favourite sports club.
Yes! Say Yes!
Say Yes! Say Yes!
Say Yes! Say Yes!
Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes!
Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes!
Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes!
Yes
Only if you come with
these stinky woolly socks
the torn trainers and this dirty vest
with last week food stains still on.
Oh yes and don't forget
to have a shot for courage.
I thought so.
I'll see you tonight girls.
Don't stress about it Gundi.
Next time.
The volleyball girl is a little
goody two shoes, isn't she?
It would seem so.
Don't give up.
Did you see her boyfriend?
Sleek.
In a shirt...
and some fancy hairstyle.
He must attracting lots of flies.
Why?
Because of the sugar.
How do you think that hairstyle is done?
Come on. Help me collect the empty bottles.
You can get the deposit money.
All of them?
Good afternoon, everyone.
Stock checking
in the warehouse.
Raine.
Goshe! You gave me a shock.
You didn't see anything, right my boy.
I don't want to be called to the
police station for rags and tatters.
Of course, of course.
I'm sorry.
-Empty bottles again?
-Mhm
Zoro let me have all of them.
This Zoro is such a good friend, eh?
45 YEARS
LEVSKI ASSOCIATION
1924 - 1969
Someone is planing to be kissing today, eh?
You never know.
Can I have a mint please?
I think I'm getting a sore throat.
Sure. Sore throat, eh?
Yes
Wow, look at our guy.
Goshe.
-Where did you get jeans from?
-I'll explain later.
-And the shirt?
-It's from the same place.
-Okay.
Gundi, what outfit is this?
Why, what's wrong?
I always dress like this.
Mint?
Mimi, Bobby is inviting you to a dance.
Just to let you know he knows
Shakespeare by heart in English.
Ball, it's you.
Come on.
Bobby, this was amazing.
Happy Anniversary
to Levski Association
And now special thanks to
Kotse Georgiev
Wishing his team a big win on Sunday
Hey.
Hey back.
Well done, Gundi.
Lita
People in love are usually distracted.
Thanks.
I didn't ask you to walk me home.
No, I just came to give you your beret.
Tell me something.
That tall one, is he your boyfriend?
That tall one has a name.
-Victor.
-Yes or no.
Will you stop following me?
I'm asking if you are guys together.
What if we are?
Umm, nothing.
I was just wondering if you are single...
I can't help you with this.
Are you sure?
Where did you get the jeans from?
There's this Italian girl,
who's obsessed with me.
She want's to be with me but
I am not keen on foreign girls.
And she trying to impress you
by buying you outfits?
Her dad is a big shot.
He works in that thing...
in Rome... in Italy
Let's go the cinema tomorrow?
Which movie?
Is it a good movie or
is it a soviet movie?
Oh! What a Mambo
I don't think it's...
What?
Did I say something funny?
I'm being serious.
-I have school in the afternoon.
-That's fine
we'll catch the morning screening.
10:00 at the cinema.
What's wrong?
-Hi Litonche.
-Hi.
-Are you not going to
introduce me to your boyfriend?
-He's not my boyfriend.
Very trendy outfit.
They are Italian.
Litonche, do you have the time,
my watch seems to have stopped.
There's another 5 minutes left.
Have a good evening.
-This is as far as you go.
-Let me walk you home.
You'll want me to invite
you for a cup of tea next?
I only drink tea when I'm sick, Litonche.
I'm a commoner
Usually you should remove this thing.
Bye
Tomorrow at 10:00 outside the cinema, ok?
Good evening, Lita
How was the party?
Nothing special.
Litonche
-Yes dad.
-Who was that tall dummy?
Some football player from the sports club.
Mhm. Very well-dressed.
And you instead of wasting
your time with parties...
better concentrate on studying so you
can achieve first class honours.
How will you get into
university otherwise?
-Yes
-Vicky, you'll stay for dinner, right?
Yes if you insist.
-Do you want me help?
-Sure, thank you for offering, young man.
Big bro, have you seen
Oh! What a Mambo
Yes, it's really good.
Musical comedy.
Why are you asking?
Im going to the morning screening,
tomorrow before school.
And who are you going
to the cinema with?
Good day.
-Good day.
-Gundi, right?
-Georgi, but yes it's me.
-Lita is not coming. -Why?
-And you are?
-I'm her mother.
Right, okay.
Did I say something to offend her?
I want you to listen carefully.
Lita has a boyfriend
Wonderful young man.
Son of an attorney.
Now I'm sure you understand why
she is not coming. Have a great day.
Comrade.
My regards to you, Lita,
the attorney and his son...
but your daughter must choose herself who
she can see or can not see, isn't this right?
-Why do I feel that you
didn't understand me?
-No I understood you very well, it is you that didn't understanding me.
-I'll say this plain and simple.
Stay away from my daughter!
-Goshe, come to the table.
-I'm not hungry.
-You are always hungry.
-Yes, but not this time.
-What's wrong, my boy?
You haven't left a single cube of sugar.
Your dad was really pissed off this morning.
-What are you doing to your hair?
-Mum, please no, don't.
Goshe.
This girl is from a different
world, she not for you.
You'll find another one, right?
Come to table everyone.
-Come here, I need to talk to you.
-Dad, sorry about the sugar.
Two objects, with opposite charges
Yes
Yes!
Good day, comrade.
Apologies, I'm coming straight from the
principle's office. I'm the new student.
Where's your books and notebooks?
-The principle told me to just get to class.
-Fine, just sit anywhere and pay attention.
-Give him a piece of paper to write on.
-Thank you.
Two objects, with opposite charges...
are subject to magnetic attraction force between them
-Bobby, move. Get
Go sit over there.
Quiet please. Let's continue.
Let's examine the two objects
You didn't come to the cinema.
-Sorry, I had homework.
-Mhm.
-Your mum's not here, right? -My mum?
-Why are you asking about my mum?
Quiet, please. The strength of the magnetic force between
the objects is related to the size of their charge
I couldn't take you to cinema.
Please come to the cup final game,
but please take your dad this time.
The new boy.
You will leave just as quick as you walked in.
No need comrade.
I'll leave on my own.
How so?
You almost beat the old physics teacher record.
He kicked me out two minutes after I walked in.
Quiet! Quiet!
Velichka, give me your report card.
Dear radio listeners, we are few minutes away from
the end of the game for the youth league's cup
between Levski and September Sofia
Let's all look at these young players.
The higher quality of youth's football will
undoubtedly bring the socialist's sport to higher highs.
Here and now, we are witnessing the forging
of the future men's daring football team.
Come on, Goshe.
Pass to Levski's number 6 midfielder.
Come on.
Is this how a midfielder should plays,
dear radio listeners?
The unexpected breakthrough of the midfielder in blue
catches by surprise Septembers solid defence.
Long pass by Asparuhov.
What a miss.
Following the unexpected amazing breakthrough of Georgi Asparuhov
this missed opportunity could have been their last chance to win gold.
If he goes into attack one more and
expose the defence, I'll change him.
Looking at our strikers,
I also feel I should go into attack.
Come on.
It is the 75th minute.
The pressure is building up.
Asparuhov receives the ball and decides to
attack alone. Slaloming through the defence.
Terrible foul against Asparuhov,
who finds himself on the grass
I can't watch this.
Well done.
Gundi
It is the 89th minute of the game.
Score is still 0:0
The pressure on both sides is immense.
This is the final for the national youth cup after all.
September goes into daring surprise attack.
Asparuhov skilfully takes over.
This boy is all over the pitch.
Methodically overcomes "the reds" defence.
Direct pass to Levski's captain
Kaloyan Ivanov
He took off very aggressively.
Flying along the left wing.
Septembers defence is showing weakness...
Goal! Goal!
Levski scores.
Gooooaaaal!
Well done!
What an amazing performance
by the midfielder Georgi Asparuhov
Levski! Levski! Levski!
Levski! Levski! Levski!
This beautiful finish once more proves that the flag of
our youth socialist football team is proudly flying high.
This is the end of the game.
Levski's youth team won the cup thanks to
an impressive last minute goal by Georgi Asparuhov.
Levski champions!
Levski champions!
-Congratulations!
-Thank you!
-This is your trophy.
-Thank you.
Well done, Asparuhov.
Well done.
You'll be training with the men's team from tomorrow.
Next Sunday you are playing against LOCO.
Thank you!
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
Levski! Levski! Levski!
These are for you.
One day, I'll marry your daughter.
What did he say?
He dedicates the win to me.
-Hi Lita,
-Hi.
-Is the comrade upstairs?
The Mrs.
She's waiting for you.
-Have a great day.
-Enjoy your class.
-What are you doing here, Georgi?
-Your piano play was really impressive.
-What was that circus performance yesterday?
-What circus performance?
-The whole stadium applauded your mum.
-Happy birthday!
-How do you know?
-I have my spy.
You are sharing a desk at school with him.
So kind of you.
One of my two dreams came true.
-They invited me to play in the men's team.
-Well done, Georgi. Congratulations
Really happy for you
-Thank you.
-What is you second dream?
Comrade Todor Zhivkov,
welcomed the first person to fly in space.
Citizens from all over the country
came to salute Yuri Gagarin.
After visiting space,
Gagarin has set foot on Bulgarian soil.
The army football teams are drafting again
this autumn all the promising young players.
Asparuhov, Zlatkov and Rankov will
serve their army service at CPAC
Central People's Army Club
Army barracks are welcoming the conscripts
from their sports companies.
Always happy to be at work, at the workshop, at
the factory, by the lathe, by the weaving loom
Georgi Asparuhov dismissed from CPAC...
BOTEV PLOVDIV with new striker Georgi Asparuhov...
Bulgarian State Railways are celebrating. Let us all
congratulate the metal horses of our developed socialism.
Passenger train to Plovdiv via Ihtiman, Kostenets, Pazardzhik
and Stamboliyski leaves in 2 minutes from platform 1.
-End of announcement.
-Hot bagels! Hot bagels!
-Do you want one?
-It's far.
-Georgi, Plovdiv is not that far.
Also you know my aunty lives there.
I'll come visit you at the barracks
and I can come to one of your games
if you want to invite me.
Yes, sure.
Now when you start university
there'll be all sorts of boys there
Chemistry students, physics students. All sort
of smart students from all over the country.
You won't be wasting your time with
some army conscript from Botev Plovdiv.
So you want us to be just friends?
All aboard!
Passenger train to Plovdiv is departing
from platform 1. End of announcement.
I'll give it to you straight.
-I don't expect you to wait for me
to complete my conscription service.
-This will be a good
opportunity to test our feelings.
-I don't need to test my feelings.
I'm sure of them.
I just want to ask you one thing.
If you start falling in love with someone...
please let me be be the first one to know.
You silly.
Passenger train to Plovdiv is departing from platform 1
Passengers, please take your seats now.
BOTEV PLOVDIV - LOCOMOTIVE PLOVDIV
How big? How big do you
want the goal post to be?
It doesn't matter if it is
7m or 70m, you will still miss.
Listen carefully, young boy. You are in
Botev Plovdiv, not in football training.
I don't know what sort of a striker were you in Levski
but I see now why you've been dismissed from CPAC.
How could you miss?
I'm trying to fit in the team but
it's difficult without you around.
Don't worry about me, I'm okay.
It's much better than the real barracks
Plovdiv is a beautiful town.
I'm can't wait to see you.
There's only 476 days left and
we'll be together again. Yours, Georgi
Pass it on.
Pass it on!
Dinkov, dribble.
Dribble!
Pass it to him!
Pass it god damn it!
-Who brought in this Sofia boy?
-Give him a chance next game.
Put him in the starting lineup.
I'll work with him individually.
Paunov!
It's me Georgi Genov "The Tailor"
who is the coach of Botev, not you!
I can tell you someone can't play
as soon as I look at them.
You sound depressed.
What is going on?
-I have to confess something.
-What is it?
Things are not going well.
I am really underperforming.
-Lita, I'm thinking of quitting football.
-Georgi, I don't want to hear this ever again.
-If I get dismissed from Botev, I'll be sent back to
the actual barracks which means another year away from you!
Nonsense!
You, are the best!
They just haven't realised it yet.
-I love you, you know that!
-I love you too!
I have to go.
I love you!
-Gundi, the girlfriend is really far away, eh?
-Mhm.
Look at him, look at him! Tree trunks instead
of legs and a pumpkin instead of head.
He belongs in a forest, not here!
Forest boy! How much longer
are you planing on playing poorly?
-No, it's actually my fault. I've let him play.
-It wasnt his fault he missed.
He played well?
Get lost you idiot.
We are losing points,
because I'm listening to you!
Let him play. I did let him play.
He was alone against the goalkeeper and...
-Can we step outside for a minute?
-Why, do you want to beat me up?
No, I want to talk.
You are not going to talk to me like this.
Continuously insulting me.
The other players are making fun of me.
Fans are booing me every
single game, and the practises.
-How do you want to play like this?
-How do you want me to score?
-By... scoring goals.
I want you to put me in
the starting lineup, against CPAC in Sofia.
-Are you making fun of me?
-No.
If you mess up that game, I will personally
escort you to the front line barracks.
Good day, dear listeners! A warm welcome from People's Army stadium,
where the game between CPAP - BOTEV PLOVDIV will begin shortly.
Dinko, I want lofted passes
from the wing to Tumbi.
Gundi, Gundi?
Gundiii!
Come on, go out.
Grandstands are over full capacity.
Today we have over 30,000 football fans.
We are all anxious how this duel will end. The game is
of great importance for Botev's championship qualification.
After last season's 9th win in a row for "The Army Men" team,
Botev took home bronze medals...
this championship "The Canary" are determined
to not only be in the top 3 places in group "A"...
but why not win the champion's title.
Something we haven't seen since the distant 1923.
Nuclear chain reaction is a self sustaining reaction, where free
neutron splits an atom, releasing more neutrons that split more atoms...
-Where did you go?
-There was a queue at the stalls.
-It's starting now.
The players are ready and are waiting the kick-off signal.
Let's wish for a fair play and good luck to both teams.
Here is game start.
Dermenjiev passes to Asparuhov. Asparuhov
passes to Popov. Oh no, such a poor pass.
The ball is in "The Army Men" possession.
Very unconvincing start for "The Canaries"
the resulting elements are
different from the starting elements...
-Sit down!
usually these reactions are accompanied by the release of...
The Plovdiv guests are trying a breakthrough attack.
Dermenjiev has the ball. He passes to Asparuhov.
Swift takeover and "The Army Men" team is in attack.
Rakarov with a short pass to Kolev. Kolev finds Yakimov.
Yakimov is in the penalty area.
He shoots, hitting the post and it's a goal!
Another football masterclass from Yakimov
leading to 1:0 in the first few minutes of the game
-It's his fault! What an easy goal.
-Calm down, there's plenty of time left.
It's only been 4 minutes.
Plenty of time, eh?
Should we come back tomorrow?
-Comrade Parusheva
-I remember. Solve the equation first!
-I should have already been at the stadium!
-Don't tell me how to do my job!
-Please it's important!
-You'll leave when I say so!
Get back to your desk,
or I'll put a note in your report card.
I might be risking my own head here.
You have another 10 minutes.
Calm down boy,
I know what you are capable of.
I believe in you.
It's time you also start believing in yourself.
Dear radio listeners, it is the start of the
second half. The score is 1:0 for the hosts.
Popov has the ball,
passes to Asparuhov.
He's advancing despite
being tackled by 3 defenders.
Goshe.
And with the risk of a
foul he is knocked down.
Dear listeners, "The Army Men" defence is
ready to do anything to keep the score.
I will end him.
We are in the first minutes of the second half of the game between
the current first-place team and the guests from Botev Plovdiv.
The score is 1:0 to for the hosts.
Popov has the ball. Passes to Asparuhov.
Goal!
Goal! Goal! Goal!
It's the 49th minute of the
game and the score is equalized.
Amazing performance from Botev's
young hope, Georgi Asparuhov.
A very precise shot from about
20m away lands the ball straight in the net.
We are in the middle of the second half.
The guests have the ball.
Dermenjiev to Asparuhov.
Asparuhov has control.
Diagonal pass to Popov.
Popov is advancing.
Long pass by Popov.
Goal!
Goal! Goal! Goal!
-Gooooaaaal!
Outstanding delivery from the young Asparuhov.
What a turning point!
In just 20 minutes,
an amazing finish of the quick attack of...
the "Black and Yellows".
-Good that I put him in the starting lineup.
-Well done!
The game was decided with two
excellent goals from Georgi Asparuhov.
Remember this name!
Gundi! Gundi! Gundi!
Gundi! Gundi! Gundi!
Gundi! Gundi!
-Lita
-Georgi
I'm speechless.
-What's wrong?
-Who did you put this for?
Please wipe it off.
Gundi!
-Hello.
-Hello.
-You can have tonight off.
-Thank you, comrade Genov.
-But on Monday...
-I want you at practise at 10:00 sharp.
-Affirmative.
-You did well today.
You heard them, right?
Gundi, Gundi, Gundi.
It's off.
Thank you.
-Have a good evening.
-Same to you.
Come in please.
-Why is there no electricity?
-Can you please be quieter?
Didn't you said your parents went to the village.
Why should we keep quiet.
Oh yes, true.
It's just a habit.
Please close the door, there is a draft.
Georgi, please don't.
Georgi, don't!
Georgi, don't!
How long is it going to be?
Please don't be mad.
How long have we been together?
How long must we wait.
Look...
I know you are already a man and...
and you have needs I can't help you with.
So if you really want this...
if you find a girl.
I won't be mad.
-I'm sorry, I'm just not ready.
-When will you be?
When I come back from conscription?
-Litke, is this you making noises?
-Yes mammy, it's me. Sorry.
-Big bro, keep it down.
-Ok Litke.
Liar!
Georgi
What time do you call this?
I met with Georgi.
-Are you a slut? What did you do?
-Nothing.
-Liar.
-We just talked.
-Just know, one thing always leads to another
and you'll end up pregnant, jeopardizing your future!
-Mammy
Hristo Iliev delivered our win over France.
Can we win over the "The Cockerels" as guests?
Dimitar Yakimov scores the wining goal.
Be proud motherland!
Bulgaria is going to the World Cup for the first time.
Today the Bulgarian national team
is flying to Chile for the World Cup.
Let us wish them clear skies and safe flight!
Hi everyone.
Yakimov and Kolev are seating here.
The backups sit at the back.
In the tail section.
-Hello boys, how are you?
-How are you?
-I've got a killer joke. Listen to this!
-Go on.
Todor Zhivkov, wakes up, yawns, stretches,
pulls the curtains, looks at the sun...
the sun looks at him straight away and says:
-Good morning, Toshko!
He responds:
-Good morning, Sunny!
Go on, finish the joke.
Why did you stop?
Come on.
I love jokes about the First.
I'm listening.
At lunch time Todor...
comrade Zhivkov
looks at the sun again and the sun said:
-Good afternoon, comrade Zhivkov!
He replied: -Good afternoon, Sunny!
And...
And? Then what?
Then in the evening he looked at the
sun again but the sun didn't said anything.
so he nudged the sun gently by saying:
-Good evening, Sunny!
The sun still didn't reply.
But later said:
-Fu.., Todore,
I've already gone...
What?
The sun said:
Fuck you, Todore. I've already gone west.
I haven't heard that one.
-Excuse me, is this seat free?
-Yes, yes of course.
-Are you from the police?
I'm an art critic.
Also I'm responsible for the team's law and
order and protect the delegation from trouble.
If you notice anything unusual...
I'll be around.
Right?
Congratulations.
19 years old footballer with questionable
game record at Botev is going to Chile.
Don't do anything stupid!
Right?
In their first game at the World Cup
Bulgaria lost from Argentina - 0:1
The South Americans surprised us with
very rough play injuring two of our players.
Injured are the strikers Diev and Iliev.
Against Hungary they'll be substituted with the
backups Georgi Asparuhov and Georgi Sokolov.
-It has begun!
-What has begun, Paro? Be quick, I can't do this any longer.
-Miche.
-What...? You'll kill us!
-Gosheto
He'll be in the starting lineup as a striker.
Striker, Miche!
-Berlin?
-Yes, Berlin!
I spoke with the Attorney General,
Victor's father.
Victor?
Why didn't you ask me?
Ask you about what?
We are doing this for your own good?
You'll be studying in GDR!
German Democratic Republic
Mum, that's 4 years!
It has been decided
and we've made a commitment.
In it's second game at the World Cup in Chile
Bulgaria lost disastrously from Hungary 6:1
The only goal scored for our country was scored by
the promising young player, the 19 years old Asparuhov.
This is the first goal for
our motherland at a World Cup.
It should also be noted that Georgi Asparuhov is the
youngest player from any team at the 1962 World Cup.
Congratulations, Lita.
Bulgaria won it's first point at the World Cup after
a draw against one of the strongest teams - England
Unfortunately Georgi Asparuhov
hit the goal post and didn't score.
But his performance has won him a permanent
spot at the national team starting lineup
Although we are dropping out of the tournament
the national team will take home one point and a goal.
Hot bagels!
-Georgi who?
-Asparuhov.
-Who?
-Gundi!
-Ahh, Gundi!
-So your girl is from Sofia, eh?
-Yes, can you please hurry up, she's coming?
-Are these shoes from abroad?
-Yes they are.
Gundi, please.
I should be paying you.
-No, that's not right.
-All the best.
Shoe polishing.
Shoe polishing.
Georgi!
-Hello.
-Hi.
-These are for you.
-Thank you.
-And...
A gift from Chile.
Hold this for second.
Georgi!
They are beautiful!
You counting the days
till you are back at Levski?
No, I'm counting the days
till we are back together.
-Cheers.
-Cheers.
-What's wrong?
Georgi, every time you frown
and start looking at the ceiling there's...
I need to tell you something important.
-Me too.
-Ok go on.
-You go first.
-Ok
-When I scored at the World Cup,
I overheard two players who play at Levski...
saying I shouldn't come back to Levski
after the conscription service because I'll take their job.
-Who are they?
-It doesn't matter.
Also Genov and Paunov want me to stay in Botev.
-What is that you want?
Lita, will you marry me!
We can stay in Plovdiv. We'll find a place
and get married secretly. Just the two of us.
-My parents are sending me
to study in Berlin this autumn.
Yes!
-This is all because of me.
It's because I am a football player?
-Yes!
-It's because I graduated from
night school and live on the outskirts of Sofia?
-Yes!
-And they are sending you
to Berlin, because of that?
-Yes!
-What do you mean yes, Lita?
Georgi,
did you not hear when I said Yes!
I will marry you!
Can we have
9th of July, if possible?
-It's a Tuesday!
-Yes, exactly, if possible of course.
-It's not acceptable.
-But it is possible.
-It is possible but not acceptable.
Do you know who this is?
Why haven't you offered him a seat?
-Please have a seat.
-No, please no need.
-No, I insist.
-Tea, coffee? We have cognac.
-Thank you, we are not allowed.
Everything is allowed in here.
-Apostolov. It's really nice to meet you.
-Asparuhov. Likewise.
-So... 9th of July, Tuesday.
-Before midday?
-Yes
-9:00.
-Can we have 11:00, if possible?
-11:00, of course.
-Georgi Asparuhov.
And who is the lucky girl?
-Her name is Velichka Markova.
-And Velichka Markova.
-Is this her father's name or surname?
-Father's, family, grandfather's, just put Velichka Markova.
Okay, got it.
Can I please have both passports?
I only brought mine.
We can't book you in.
We need your fiance's one too.
-You'll bring it when you come in to sign
but this is really important.
-Okay, yes.
-She can loose her job.
-I'll bring it.
-He will bring it, it's all good.
-It will truly be an honour for us that
you have chosen to be married here.
Okay, I've booked you in.
So, you get off the train last second.
You brother continues to Burgas.
We sign the marriage and then
you join him for your holiday.
You'll say that you missed the train by mistake.
You got off in Plovdiv to get a bottle of water.
-Georgi, are you sure about this?
-Of course, I am sure!
It's all set up. I'm staying at Botev.
They promised to give us housing too.
We'll find you a job, sign you up for
extramural education and it's all good.
I'm afraid.
Lita, I can cancel
the marriage booking if you want.
No!
Have a good day.
-Hi.
-Lita, can you come for a second?
-Yes. What's wrong?
-Sit down.
I've heard you are planing to get married?
No!
Nonsense!
You were going to get married in secret
and stay in Plovdiv.
-Dad, this is not true.
-Lita, why are you lying?
-Are you going to believe rumours, or me?
-The phone operator from Plovdiv, didn't wanted Georgi
to stay at Botev and he leaked the conversation.
You are lying Lita!
You are lying to your parents!
Is this what we deserve?
It's over with Georgi.
You are going to Berlin!
Lita?
I've decided!
Sit down please,
don't say anything, just hear me out.
I'm not sitting down. I'm not not going to
hear you out and I am not going to keep quiet.
I'm not going to Berlin.
You acting like prison wardens.
Lita, you are an adult now.
and we as parents not as wardens,
can only advise you, we can't force you.
Are you getting married?
Yes, dad.
-Do you love him?
-Yes!
Is this... the man you want to grow old with?
Yes!
Then, let's have a proper wedding.
The wedding my daughter deserves.
Thank you, dad!
4 AUGUST 1963
PLOVDIV
-Our kids are here and we are in Sofia.
-My son-in-law will play for Levski this autumn.
-Do you think so?
I don't just think so.
I know for a fact.
-What about the law?
-They'll change it if they have to.
OCTOBER 1963
SOFIA
This way.
Council house for 4.73 levs a month
Hold on a second.
Open your eyes.
Book for every day and every home.
We already have our own home.
We just have to sort the everyday stuff.
I can tell you now, I don't know anything
about repairs, electricity and plumbing.
You'll learn.
-I don't know anything about cooking and sewing but...
-You'll learn.
-I couldn't sleep last night.
-Why?
New city. New team. New home.
Georgi, this is your home town.
Nothing new.
You started at Levski,
so this isn't new either.
Today you are playing against Slavia,
also nothing new.
The home we were given from the council...
isn't new either.
Lita, I like it here.
You wanted your own home, you have it.
What more do you want?
-Yes, that's right...
-Lita...
You and Levski are
everything I've ever dreamt of.
Now they expect me to be the best I can.
Everything else will fall into place.
I'll leave you two alone
to get to know each other.
Wish me luck.
We'll fix this later.
The suitcases are in the hallway.
You came early, eh?
-Full of energy, nothing can stop you.
-I'm a bit anxious, I couldnt stay home.
Slavia's team should be anxious.
Welcome back to the nest!
Show everyone, what I already know.
Gundi, I hope you live up to the coach's
expectations because you took my place.
Otherwise pack your bags and
back to Botev, where you belong.
Gundi, take this advice
from your big bro Sasho Kostov
The spot in the starting lineup is not given.
You have to fight for it.
In a few moments you'll hear 60,000 fans.
They don't care about anyone's family connections.
Boys, let's have a good fair game.
Good luck to everyone.
Come please.
LEVSKI - SLAVIA
The oldest derby in the capital
is in the middle of its first half.
Iliev advances on the left wing.
Successfully tackling one of Slavia's defenders.
and Goal!
Gooooaaaal!
The score has changed.
1:0 for Levski.
Dear listeners, this is what's required from the young
player to prove that he deserves the blue number 9 jersey.
The stadium as at boing point. "The Blues" are in
attack. Kostov is advancing. Passes to Asparuhov.
Kostov. Gooooaaaal!
What an incredible football imagination!
The whole defence team
neutralised with a single move.
Following a defensive push the game
is back in the centre of the pitch.
In my humble opinion, this is the most intense game
from the autumn championship games we've had so far.
Kostov confidently owns the ball
and long shots to the penalty area.
Iliev head shots. The goalkeeper kicks it out.
Gooooaaaal! What a magnificent goal!
What an amazing reverse scissor move!
In my not so humble opinion this
was a world class performance.
Gundi! Gundi! Gundi!
Gundi! Gundi! Gundi!
Two minutes before the end of the game,
the score in this exceptional game is 3:3
Asparuhov again and goal!
Watch out for Gundi in the last seconds!
We witnessed a hat-trick in our professional
football league and it was an outstanding one.
How was my game?
-They love you?
-What?
Didn't you hear the fans?
Can't you see it pouring down and hear
the thunder? This is a sign from above.
-It will be smooth sailing.
-I hope so.
Look, leave this to me.
Go back home, you are soaking wet.
You'll get sick and we
need you to be well and fit.
for the team...
and for the people.
-Go on, leave!
-Just a little bit longer.
Very romantic setting.
-The electricity's gone.
-I thought so.
And it's clean.
This is for my first hat-trick.
Is this what the top scorer's
wife gets for such a big win?
An old lady was selling them outside in the
rain so I bought all of them so she can go home.
-I love garden flowers.
-Yes I know, I remember.
I'll buy a vase tomorrow.
Come sit, I've made dinner.
Lush dinner for the top scorer.
No!
Lamb with shallot onions.
-What's wrong?
-I can't stand shallot onions since I was a kid.
-I didn't know.
-Don't worry, don't worry.
Don't worry about it.
How would you know? You'll learn over time.
It's leaking, but it's ours.
I know what you are thinking right now.
We should have stayed
in Plovdiv. It wasn't that bad.
-Was it?
-No.
-City centre?
-Yes, it was in the city centre.
-I'm use to the outskirts.
-And I am use to the city centre.
Look Lita.
If this is how it's going to be...
each of us should go back to
where we feel comfortable.
Rudolf Vytlacil is the new coach
for Levski and the national team.
The person responsible for brotherly Czechoslovakia making it to
the World Cup in Chile is behind the wheel of "The Blues"
Will Vytlacil's experience bring the
long awaited champions cup to Levski?
Vytlacil won't be using a translator.
He'll be using the football language.
Freedom. Harmony. Rhythm.
Team play. Improvisation.
Basically I dream of a jazz football.
Lita, this coach inspires me!
Speed of legs. Speed of mind. Speed of kick.
Asparuhov this is your task on pitch.
Asparuhov is making moves
his opponents cannot predict.
And yet another goal.
You can see this is a work of art.
He simply glides over the pitch.
Asparuhov is truly an inspirer for his team
and for the millions of football fans in Bulgaria.
Under the skilful management of the Czechoslovakian coach.
Levski shows great team spirit,
beautiful and efficient game play.
Water, control and poker.
You must be example for Levski and national team.
How many players are
needed to stop Asparuhov?
Shot and gooooaaaal!
What a beautiful passing shot from
an accomplished world class player!
It's the final minutes of the
Levski - Lokomotiv Plovdiv game.
The championship title has already been decided but we need to find
out if Georgi Asparuhov will be the top scorer for 1964-1965 season.
Asparuhov passes to Sokolov.
Sokolov back to Asparuhov.
Shot.
Its gone right through him.
3:0 to Levski
thanks to the brilliant Asparuhov.
Dear Comrades, Levski becomes
champions with this very convincing score.
Congratulations! Congratulations! Congratulations!
Triple congratulations to Asparuhov for the three cups.
Championship, top scorer and player of the season.
Well done, well done, well done!
Triple well done to Asparuhov.
Rudolf Vytlacil transformed...
This is daddy, my baby.
Daddy is a champion. Yes.
With the self-devotion, the results
and his modesty, Asparuhov is...
a bright example to all hard working people.
Why did you choose
Asparuhov in particular?
The Bulgarian Communist Party, came to power with the promise
of building new society, new state, new personality.
-Isn't that right?
-Did you learn this during you training?
I think he's the right person
for our ideology.
I have been following his development
for the past 5 years.
Father: machine operator.
With no record. Rural origin.
Mother: same.
-Living in poverty.
-Why him instead of any of our other worthy athletes?
Because the future is in football.
The whole world is watching football.
-Smile.
-Come on Andy, gives us a smile.
-Andy, my baby...
wave to the camera, my baby.
-Hello.
-Hi. -Hi.
-Hello.
-Hello.
Look, look. What's there.
Well done. What's there.
Are we going to win over
Belgium, my baby? Tell us.
Are we winning over Belgium, Andy?
-We are winning.
-We are going to win. -Yes my baby.
Yes, my baby.
Well done, Andy.
Take this with you. For good luck.
Look, look Andy.
You are coming with me to Florence. Look.
Dear radio listeners, we are transmitting from Florence
for the crucial World Cup qualifying game in England.
After Bulgaria's first game win 3:0
and loss at the replay in Belgium 0:5
there was a need for third game to decide
the last entry for the World Cup in England.
It's almost the middle of the first half and the score
is still 0:0. Our team's play is truly inspiring.
Little socialist Bulgaria plays against
the scary Belgium football monster.
Asparuhov takes the ball in the centre and goes into attack.
Asparuhov advances and passes to Zhekov.
The two opponents from Levski and SCKA
are good friend outside the pitch.
and are guarding the Bulgarian flag together
BULGARIA - BELGIUM
29 December 1965
Zhekov to Kolev. Kolev advancing.
-Pass the ball!
Kolev shoots long.
and gooooaaaal! Goal for Bulgaria!
Bulgaria scores. Asparuhov scores.
-Well done.
-Did you see what uncle Gosho did?
-He scored. Daddy scored, my baby.
-Did you hear what daddy did, my baby?
In the 20th minute of the
game Asparuhov took over...
Lita, what are you doing?
Turn this radio down.
The kid needs to sleep.
Borise, what's wrong with you too?
Plaskie is trying to attack but Yakimov tackles
him and is now advancing in Belgium's half.
Yakimov passes to Kolev. Kolev back to Yakimov.
-Come on! Come on!
Yakimov passes to Asparuhov
Asparuhov goes easily through
Belgium's defence. Asparuhov...
-Gooooaaaal!
-Goal for Bulgaria!
-Goal! Well done Bulgarians!
Second one!
Goal!
In just a single minute Bulgaria takes the
lead with 2:0 after Asparuhov's wonderful goals...
in 20th and 21st minutes.
Georgi Asparuhov brings the
Belgium team to their knees.
2:0
-Does the baby like sour patches?
-His mammy likes them a lot.
-Please have some, Mime.
The referee is reaching
for the whistle and... it's over.
The game is over.
Bulgaria qualifies for the World Cup!
We won over Belgium with 2 goals
scored by the magnificent Georgi Asparuhov
At this stage, this is the most
important game in his career.
Dear compatriots, I have just received the news
from Sofia that Asparuhov has been awarded...
Bulgaria's sportsperson of the year for 1965.
In addition to this in a reliable
survey of the France Football magazine...
he has been nominated as number 8
of the best football players in Europe.
This game has achieved new
heights for the Bulgarian football.
It's no surprise this magazine puts Bulgaria as number 4
in Europe behind England, Hungary and Portugal.
This is the biggest recognition for
our football team to date.
This brings us to the end of our transmission
from Comunale stadium in Florence.
We wish everyone a Happy New Year!
Long live People's Republic of Bulgaria.
-The new hero!
-Hmm.
-It's happening quicker than I expected.
-Nothing has happened yet. It's just starting now.
You can talk to him now.
-I will ask to use my own methodology
in the attempt to recruit him.
-Let's hear it.
No censorship of
newspapers, radio and TV.
Let them glorify him as much as they want.
We won't stop him from living
his life the way he want's to.
-Driving western cars, wearing extravagant clothes.
-Are you sure this isn't too much of motivation.
"Motivation is what makes people work harder."
by Comrade Khrushchev.
I doubt this is what comrade Khrushchev meant.
It doesnt take long to get used to the good life...
but it really hurts when it goes away.
It is really important to thank the party
and the state for their support of the football.
And for our qualification to
the World Cup in England.
-I'm a footballer, not a politician.
-Eh?
Now the whole world is talking about
Georgi Asparuhov.
It won't hurt you to say a few
good words for the right people.
Because the party is
really supporting the football.
You help us, we help you, right?
-You said it so well.
-Okay.
Relax a little bit. Come on.
For service to the socialist sport.
And for our second World Cup qualification.
Bronze People's Order of Labour...
is being awarded to the striker Dimitar
Yakimov and the goalkeeper Georgi Naidenov
Silver People's Order of Labour...
is being awarded to the
top scorer Georgi Asparuhov
Thank you very much! Thank you!
Now dear comrades I give the floor
to the heroes from the Florence epic.
These awards are for
everyone in the national team.
Also for our fans who supported us
throughout the World Cup qualifiers.
I'd like to thank Yakimov who
assisted for the second goal.
I'd like to thank the goalkeeper Naidenov, who despite
the strong Belgium game didn't let them equalize.
Lets wish ourselves the best of
luck for the World Cup in England
And now I'd like to give special thanks
to someone really important to me.
Someone who is responsible
for me standing here today.
This is... Rudolf Vytlacil.
Thank you for your attention.
Andy. My precious boy.
SOFIA, 1967
Let's go wash our hands
and have something to eat.
Come my baby, let's go. Come.
Border control!
Passport please!
There you go.
-Purpose of your trip?
-Football game in Milan.
-Levski will play against Milan.
-You are a football fan?
I am Georgi Asparuhov's wife.
And I am Marcello Mastroianni!
You can have your passport back.
Your passport!
-Good afternoon. Your coffee.
-Thank you Francesca.
MILAN
-Good afternoon, director.
-Have they arrived?
Yes. Asparuhov flew in yesterday afternoon from
Sofia. His wife arrived few hours later by train.
Why didnt she fly with him?
The Bulgaria Football Federation didn't allow her.
She's booked at the hotel, right?
Not in "Turin" with the football team. No.
-I specifically asked you for this.
-Look, director. It's not possible.
-Why?
-Game readiness and discipline.
Because Levski's management
doesn't allow outside people.
She's checked in into a bed and
breakfast on the outskirts of the city.
I almost forgot...
Why don't I see Asparuhov on front page?
We decided to put a photo of his wife.
-We are inviting him to "Milan", not her!
-Yes, but...
If she accepts the conditions, he will too.
Behind every successful man, there is a smart woman.
Beautiful and smart.
One moment please!
-Don't worry, it's me.
-How did you find me?
-I took a taxi.
-You couldn't find a better hotel?
-This is what $5 dollars per night gets you.
Look what I have for you.
Invitation for the grandstand.
There you go.
And now the most important thing.
Mrs Asparuhova is the most
elegant women in the whole of Italy.
Mrs Asparuhova is the most
elegant women in the whole of Italy.
Look what was waiting for me in the room.
-How do they know where you're staying?
-I thought you've told them.
-No, I didn't.
-Does anyone else knows?
-Only you do.
Doesn't matter. I'll find out.
The photo is very nice.
-The photo or me.
-You!
-You are the fairest of them all!
-Georgi, the suit.
-You have a game to prepare for.
-It's tomorrow.
Milan dominates over Levski with 5:1
But one player stood out. Georgi Asparuhov.
Milan's coach admits:
-Asparuhov is the striker of my dreams.
The Italians are thrilled by the
skilful world class player from Bulgaria.
How do they know his name?
One moment, Georgi.
Don't say anything.
I want to find out how much you are worth.
Let me do the talking.
-Lita!
-One moment!
It's not ours.
-The villa is your father's.
-The villa is our family's.
Anyway.
Lita please tell them this.
There is country called Bulgaria.
In this country there is a team called Levski.
I was born in this team,
and I will die in this team.
There you go.
What?
We could have discussed it
before you gave them an answer.
-They invited me.
-No, Georgi.
The offer was for you, me and Andrey.
-You wanted me to accept?
-I am not saying that.
-I am saying we should make our decisions together.
-Okay.
One day when you receive a job offer I promise
we'll make the decision together.
Period.
I was informed about your
unauthorized meeting in Milan.
-It was a welcome meeting.
-A welcome meeting!
Why wasn't a representative
of the football federation present?
-It was a personal welcoming meeting.
-Personal?
Like the trainers Puma made for you.
Were you going to play with these in Milan?
Due to the many injuries I have,
Puma contacted me and offered to make me...
custom trainers with special insoles.
I don't see anything wrong with this.
You've accepted an offer
from a capitalist brand?
Well... I need to able to play for
my socialist motherland, don't I?
-Did they recruit you in Italy?
-They offered me a contract.
-Did you accept?
Have you ever had 60,000
people, shout your name?
Have they ever lifted up
your car with you inside.
I thought so.
I will not betray these people.
Never! Not for $300,000.
Not for all the money in the world.
Excuse me, please.
-Did I take too long, sorry.
-No, I just arrived.
-Is Andy not with you?
-He is with my mum.
-Ahh, ok.
-Do you want to take a photo?
-Lita, I don't know if I...
They are taking family photos.
-Come on...
-Ok, fine.
-Gundi
-Gundi
-Come have a photo with us.
-Come for a photo.
-Sorry the people want to. I have to do it.
-Hello, yes I'm coming.
-Hello everyone. Good day my friend.
-Come, have a photo with you.
-Gundi! I love you Gundi!
-It's nice to meet you.
-Hello. Yes, yes of course.
-Do you have a pen?
-Thank you.
-Yes of course.
You were going to have the same attitude
if you were worth $600,000 dollars.
Read this.
No one's paying even a penny for you.
You are not doing your job.
He should have been working for us by now.
I shouldn't have to coerce him to speak to me.
He should have been here as soon as he was back from Italy.
Willingly under his own free will to write a report
telling us when, where with who and why he has met.
He's third after the Brazilian players.
Pele with 900,000
and Sormani with $660,000 dollars.
Just check the ones after him.
Moore and Facchetti with $525,000
-del Sol with $528,000
-And Hurst and Mazzola with $384,000 each.
LEVSKI
These were the only ones they had.
Asparuhov became the most
popular person in Bulgaria
While you are messing around with
your soft touch methods for the past two years.
I've warned you.
I want him recruited.
Otherwise, to hell with you.
Back to where I pulled you out of
years ago. Was I clear enough?
Imbeciles.
-Asparuhov.
-You came early for the game.
-I'm not here for the game. I came to talk.
-Again?
I've finally received permission to officially
invite you to work for State Security.
Congratulations.
This is a great honour, Asparuhov.
Me?
We didn't chose you, the people did.
We invite only the nation's favourites.
What is required of me?
-Cooperation.
-No chance.
If I snitch, I'll lose my sleep.
Then I'll be of no use to neither
Levski nor the national team.
You won't be playing for Levski or
the national team if you don't accept.
Was this clear enough?
-What did I do, to earn this honour?
-With the way people treat you.
You are attracting tens of
thousands at the stadiums.
The people love you. They call
you the president. They listen to you.
Let's imagine that one day
you take the speaker's microphone...
-and tell all these people to go somewhere.
-To go somewhere? Where?
I'm a footballer. I don't start revolutions.
You don't need to worry about this.
Tell this to your superior.
Now leave me alone.
Asparuhov!
We turned a blind eye to your
transfer from Botev to Levski.
You are playing for your dream
team. You are at the top of you career.
You drive a foreign car. We gave an
apartment. We gave you everything.
No one has given me anything.
I've achieved everything by working hard and
depriving myself. I've always followed the laws.
Georgi.
Let me share something with you.
I've dreamt to be an agent
since I was a young boy.
And I think I am a very good agent.
This is the bigger picture.
The best of the best from each field working
together to make our motherland a better place.
We are in the middle of the first half.
LEVSKI - CSKA
CSKA dominates the game and still leads 1:0.
We are transmitting on both radio and TV.
I was just informed we have 70,000 fans with us tonight.
Which is a record breaking attendance for the derby.
Asparuhov has the ball.
He's making timid progress and passes to Sasho
Kostov. Penev intercepts this unusually poor pass...
and starts counter-attack for CSKA.
"The Reds" are attacking.
Will they accomplish this attack successfully?
This is just cooperation.
For piece and order in football.
Only me and you will know
that you are helping us.
Great line-breaking pass and Asparuhov
is alone against the goalkeeper Bonchev.
What will "The Blue" striker do?
Asparuhov...
impressively tackles the
goalkeeper and he must score now.
He shoots and... what went wrong?
Asparuhov misses on an empty net.
This is very unusual for Levski's star player.
You'll report who, what, where and
with who talks against the the authority.
And we'll help you stay at the top.
Because it's difficult at the top.
It's easier to reach it than to stay there.
-You scared me.
-What are you doing?
I'm fighting with the tap.
-Did you watch the game?
-I've had enough of these games.
-Is Andy asleep?
-Yes, long time ago.
The hot water tap in the
bathroom is broken again.
I'm tired of heating water
on the stove to bath him.
I'm not a plumber.
-I'm not a cook either but the dinner is ready.
-Lita, please don't, please.
-Not now.
-When?
-Someone needs to fix the tap.
-I'm going for a walk.
Go ahead. Go.
I'm use to having dinner alone.
Go around the block five times.
Smoke a few cigarettes. Buy me flowers.
And tomorrow we start all over again.
You at the stadium and me in the kitchen.
Do I give you hard time when
we are together? Tell me?
Or you are the one who starts
the fights as soon as I walk in.
I'm being kicked at the stadium,
and I'm being shouted at at home.
Does anyone ask me how
I'm coping with all this?
Because of your constant
absence our family life is suffering.
Is that so?
Was it going to be better if I stayed home
all day and we didn't have anything to eat.
I'd rather go hungry than be alone.
Georgi, I left my family because of you.
I dropped out of university.
Our friends have forgotten us.
We've not been out in ages.
We are married but
we are always separated.
Let's get divorced then.
Is this what you want?
They won't allow us.
You are so famous that the
authorities probably won't allow us.
Did you consult with a divorce solicitor?
No!
Because I know what they will say.
Comrade Markova.
You are married to one of the most famous
Bulgarians around the world and at home.
He doesn't belong to just you anymore.
He belongs to the nation.
A separation will feel
like a sinking ship to many.
It will drown the dreams of all the young couples who
still believe in true happiness when they look at you.
This is but a shadow of life.
This isn't what we dreamt of.
There's lots of cloud over Vitosha today.
By the time we get there they'll clear up.
-What are you doing?
-I want to finish something while we are waiting.
-Georgi, I can't believe this.
-Help me with just like 20 passes.
Just to practise the shot I missed yesterday.
Only until the clouds clear.
The clouds are getting thicker, Georgi.
-Andy, let's go.
-Lita, wait.
-You can practice, I've had enough.
-Just a few shot and we're going.
No, Georgi. We are going.
We are going to my parents.
6 months later
-How was the premiere?
-You can't hear it? -Hear what?
-They are still applauding.
Have you seen the first Bulgarian ad?
Only TEKSIM cools us down.
Lili Ivanova sing the song...
and next to her Gundi and
Partsalev are drinking Oranjada.
He drinks Oranjada in
the ad but look at him now.
and she moved out.
She moved back to her
parents and took Andy with her.
She doesn't understand that
everything I do, I do for them.
Okay, I agree she's right about
certain things, but not everything.
Andy was born when I
was abroad. That's true.
I was late for the christening because
we had a practise. There was no way.
He made his first steps during a game.
Should I have cancelled a game?
How could I have know that my son
will make his first steps that day. How?
I'm not backing down.
-Am I right?
-Yes, of course.
Look, I wanted to ask you.
I found a living room furniture. Can you help me?
No, I have the money.
-Do you want me to help you move it or what?
-I have movers.
It's foreign made. I need a
permission to purchase foreign goods.
-You need my connections?
-Can you call the importer?
-Of course, you are my friend.
I want to be Gundi
for only 24 hours in this life.
-You don't want that.
-Of course you'll say that.
-I'll sort out my entire family,
even the distant cousins.
See you tomorrow
-Good evening.
-Good evening...
and thank you.
-It's nothing.
-Are you a ballerina?
-No.
Come in.
Feel like at home.
I'll go freshen up.
Look, you look
lovely but I am not...
-Nonsense!
-I'm sorry.
-Wait, where are you going?
Wait, did I say something?
We lost the cup, because of me.
I haven't scored a single
goal for Levski in two months.
If I continue this way,
we'll lose the title too.
I played four games
for the national team.
And nothing. Zero.
Zero, zilch, nada.
We are getting a divorce with Lita.
-Are you happy now?
-I told you it will go this way.
At the top, everyone stands by you.
But the moment you fall,
you're left to rise alone.
That's why you need to be part of the system.
It gives you security.
To you, to your child, to your spouse.
To your whole family.
The sport abilities and discipline of one of our
most distinguished football players Asparuhov...
has had a sharp decline lately.
Weak games at Levski and
lackluster games for the national team.
We wonder how long the patience
of his club coach, Chakarov, will last...
and that of the national team coach
Stefan Bozhkov.
Stop stressing about this.
Speak to him about this.
It's clear he's under pressure too.
Go back to Georgi.
You have to stand strong through this.
Like I always said:
He won't be a footballer forever.
Give him a chance.
Help him the way I helped
your dad back in the days.
He was never home.
He would go out when it was still dark
outside, before we had even woken up.
And he was back when it was dark
again, by the time we were already asleep.
-They use to call him The Emperor.
-Now they call Georgi, The President.
You and me have the privilege to live with a
president and an emperor in a socialist state.
Lita.
Have patience.
This is his passion, his dream, his life.
He can do without food or drink or sleep.
But he can't do without football.
You are still young.
It's really important that
the child is proud of his dad.
You were proud of yours back in the days.
Now the whole nation
is proud of Georgi
Mammy.
I can't recognize you.
I can't recognize you either, my girl.
-Hi, my boy.
-Mammy, look.
What do you have there?
It's very pretty.
It would have been even
prettier if you were in it.
-What are these suitcase?
-Mine and Andy's.
-You gifted us those.
-Do I need to take you somewhere?
-Take us home.
Lita, marry me!
-Georgi, we are married.
-Church marriage!
I am ready to promise in front of God...
that every free minute I have I'll be with you.
You need to show what you're capable of on the pitch
first, because right now, you're embarrassing yourself.
and the marriage we'll sort it out later.
Good evening, dear viewers. The most anticipated Sofia derby
is about to start between the teams of CSKA Red Flag - Levski
"The Army Men" team has had 11 straight
wins and is at the top of their game.
While "The Blues" have had hesitant performances.
CSKA - LEVSKI
CSKA Red Flag are starting with
a blitz showing good technical skills.
In these first minutes
"The Army Men" gameplay seems promising.
In the second minute of the game, Red Flag is on the attack.
Three players kick the ball at the same time.
The ball bounces off and
lands in the net and goal. Yakimov...
no it's Zhekov, Zhekov. His name
comes up on the score board. 1:0 to CSKA
-This is how we start?
-Don't worry Paro!
Seventh minute of the game. "The Blues"
don't seem discouraged by the early goal.
Asparuhov has the ball. Tackles
Penev and he slots it in the net.
-Well done.
Levski equalizes.
No one expected such an aggressive start of the
game. It's only the seventh minute, score is 1:1
Did you see the goal?
Feeling encouraged "The Blue's" are continuing the
fast pace game. Speed, fast pace, coordination.
Come on, come on!
An attack far from CSKA's net. Let's see... shot and goal.
In the 23rd minute, the tables
have turned. It's 2:1 to Levski.
What is happening? Only a minute after
the first goal, Levski are attacking again.
Bogdanov emerges from the left wing. Long-shots.
Asparuhov. Reverse scissor. Hits the post.
Kirilov. Shoot.
And another goal. Goal. 3:1 to Levski.
Where is "The Red" guards?
Where is the "The Army Men" defence?
Dear football friends. Two minutes have
passed, and two goals have been scored.
It is almost the end of the first half.
Levski are not done yet.
Bogdanov with dangerous shot and goal.
4:1 to Levski
at the end of the first half.
Pena.
A kid must be playing with the scoreboard, eh?
When did it get to 4:1
It's the second half
of a historic game.
We are yet to see if the long chain of errors by
"The Army Men" is over and whether they will recover?
Asparuhov has the ball again.
Pass to Kirilov. Precise shot and goal
No one expected such a defeat
from the current group leaders.
5:1 to Levski
-Ceco, are you the fastest in the team?
-Yes big bro Sasho, why?
-Go to your stadium quickly, my boy to get the
scoreboard because we finished the numbers on this one.
Believe it or not, the ball is in
"The Blues"captain and... 6:1
6:1
Gundi! Gundi!
Gundi! Gundi!
Gundi, bro, please give us a break.
I'm feeling embraced now.
You won't suffer like we would.
The army generals will destroy us.
One more and I'm done.
I promised Lita, I'll score hat-trick.
Can it get any worse for
"The Army Men"? Yes it can.
The referee Romyantsev gives Levski a penalty.
Third goal for Asparuhov.
One reborn captain.
One inspired team. One crushing victory.
Dear viewers, this game will go in the history
books of People's Republic of Bulgaria.
It's the last minute
of this epic football game.
The ball is in Levski's side this time.
Atanasov shoots and goal.
The referee blows the whistle.
SCKA RED FLAG - LEVSKI 2:7
-Comrades, this is out of order.
-How can you miss this?
-Paro the score is 7:2.
-It's about the principle.
-Exactly!
-Exactly!
Excuse me, is this the People's Army Theatre?
-Yes.
-What time is the first play?
-7:00
-Seven-two
Levski! Levski!
Choose a name?
-Name?
-Agent name!
A signature here and it's all done.
I don't think you understood
me that night at the stadium.
No. You didn't understand me.
You had a church marriage.
If you don't sign.
These photos will go to
whoever needs to see them.
And you are finished.
You want a signature?
I've been waiting five years for you.
To State Security.
Greetings from the Troyan Monastery!
Georgi Asparuhov.
There you go!
Don't you understand that I will not be an agent.
Your wife will not find work if I decide to.
Your kid will never study abroad if I decide to.
You'll never play football
if I decide to.
You need to decide then.
1968 ended with a friendly match between the
current World Cup champions, England, and, Bulgaria.
Some even call this the most important match.
A historic game for our national team.
A masterpiece goal, deserving a place in the history books
of Wembley Stadium, was scored by Bulgaria's favourite son.
During the World Cup qualifications,
Asparuhov sustained multiple injuries.
Despite the health risks, he continued to inspire the team,
and his goals were instrumental in qualifying for Mexico 1970
According to the medical team the injuries will prevent him
from playing in the World Cup. Let us wish him speedy recovery.
It's fitting for a national hero, right?
SOFIA 1970
-Any censorship?
-No.
-Now go to the projection room.
-Yes.
-Take the film reel.
-Mhm.
And burn it.
-Excuse me?
-Get out.
At least now with this injury
he is not going to Mexico.
In theory. In reality he will
go to Mexico with this injury.
You're sacked.
Five years I've putting up with you.
With both you and him.
Whole five years.
You didn't break him when you had the
chance and now he's doing whatever he wants.
Gundi is a national hero.
And above all else he is the
soul of the people's favourite team.
-Ivane?
-I'll take over from here. Get out.
Don't break him.
-Gundi is an honourable man.
-Get out of my face.
Imbeciles.
You need to come with the
team to the World Cup in Mexico.
No chance.
-I can't even walk, and you want me to play?
-You'll be there just for support.
-There you go.
-Thank you.
The Italians predict that Asparuhov
will take Bulgaria to semi-finals.
You'll come not to play,
but to motivate the team.
To support me.
And to scare the competition.
You, as a coach, can you promise
me that Georgi will not be playing?
I promise.
We had completely different expectations
for the national team at the World Cup.
We are completely
outplayed by Peru's team.
They are in attack again.
Shot and goal.
The south Americans really
turned the game around.
What is going on?
Georgi Asparuhov?
Yes, Georgi Asparuhov is warming up
and may join the game despite his injury.
Stefan Bozhkov is using his last resort option.
-Please don't!
Georgi Asparuhov is joining the game.
Leave us alone for a moment.
Bozhkov!
Why did you you put me in.
I am sorry.
Aggressive play.
Gundi plays in the first game. This is an order!
-This will be over too.
-This is just the beginning.
Thank you and have a nice day.
Customs check.
Take your clothes off
and hand them over to my colleagues.
What you're doing is deeply
disrespectful and humiliating.
You disrespected and humiliated Bulgaria as well!
Take off your clothes!
Lita.
Lita!
-Yes.
-Read it for me. I cant do it.
How long is the Bulgaria football
going to put up with disabled people?
The Bulgaria Football Federation
unanimously decided at its last meeting...
that, due to the team's poor
performance at the World Cup in Mexico,...
to dismiss Dr Stefan Bozhkov as
the head coach of the national team...
and the chairman of the
federation, Nedyalko Donski.
Due to poor and unsatisfactory performance,
the following players will be
released from the national team.
Dimitar Yakimov
Aleksandar Shalamanov
Georgi Popov
and Georgi Asparuhov
Georgi.
Don't worry!
Georgi.
Georgi.
-Is she roadworthy?
-Of course, she's practically new.
What do you think?
If this will make you feel better, I agree.
Lita, Lita.
-Look!
-Hold on, hold on a second.
-Look, please.
-What is this?
-Invitation to Lev Yashin's farewell match.
This is a sign.
They kicked me out of the national team, and now they invite
me to play in a international team. Lita, can you imagine?
Lev Yashin is personally inviting me.
Look, look.
I'll play with Bobby Charlton
and my favourite Florian Albert.
There is no better comeback than this.
But... you need to get back in shape!
-Yes I know.
-Right away.
Well done. Again.
Well done. Again.
And now, a happy news for
Bulgaria from the football world.
-Georgi, come quick.
-There will be a Bulgarian player at the Lev Yashin's farewell match.
Today, the Bulgarian Football Federation had a meeting
to decide which prominent and accomplished players
will take part in this historic
football event at Luzhniki Stadium.
Petar Zhekov and
Hristo Bonev will be going to Moscow.
Let us wish them a commendable performance.
It will be a great honour for me.
And I am really excited that...
I have been invited and I will participate in this match.
and that I will meet and
shake hands with Lev Yashin.
By the way there are many
famous football players in the team...
but me and my colleague Petar Zhekov
will make all effort to make sure we...
Lita, what is happening?
I'll tell you what is happening, Georgi.
Enough of this Gundi.
This is what's happening.
Enough of this recognition.
This is what's happening.
Enough of people's love.
This is what's happening.
Enough of world fame.
This is what's happening, Georgi.
LEVSKI - SCKA
You are the captain of the team.
And instead of leading by example...
you are behaving like a hooligan on the pitch.
Look at my legs.
I have been brutally abused in every game
I've been poked. I've been punched. I've been kicked.
Let it be noted for the record that all my
injuries are caused by Bulgarian players.
I have never been injured
at an international game.
-Do you regret what you did?
-I do regret...
that I've started playing football.
I shouldn't have kicked him.
I found this on the pitch. It's for you.
You are the first leaf. The second
one is Lita. The third one is Andy.
The last fourth one is the football.
The football is the last fourth one, right?
The family is the most important.
Without the fourth leaf, the clover will just
be a three-leaf clover, and they are not lucky.
Look.
You can play football even on the street.
Plenty of matches.
Plenty of teams.
The family is only one.
Head up high, president.
30 JUNE 1971
What happened?
I was banned for three games.
-Now you'll have time to recover.
-Yes.
The Federation asked me to
go to Vratsa for a friendly match.
"The Cat" is also invited.
We'll travel together.
-Georgi!
-We were up all night to change your bandages.
-It will be a full stadium.
They didn't let you play in
a farewell match in Moscow.
Now they are sending you
to a friendly match in Vratsa.
The people are expecting me.
The national team against Botev Vratsa.
First of all, you are no
longer in the national team.
Second, you are injured.
And third, you are banned from playing.
Where do you think youre going?
I'll come straight back
home after the game.
I'll be waiting.
You won't be.
You'll be packing the suitcases.
-Where are we going?
-Sunny Beach.
-We are going to the seaside.
-You said you have a football camp.
I made a decisions.
And I feel relieved now.
This will be my last game.
I am done with football.
I'll finish my studies and
we'll become teachers.
I'll be a PE teacher.
You'll teach English.
And we'll enjoy our life, Lita.
I love you very much.
I will always love you, Georgi.
On this day, Gundi will forever stay at 28 years old.
He never returns home to Lita...
Georgi Asparuhov - Gundi dies tragically in a car accident on his way to the
match in Vratsa, together with his team mate and friend Nikolay Kotkov - "The Cat"
There is a third person in the car - Major Kamenov
At "The Meadow", where the memorial service was held,
the crowd had to wait for hours before the gates were opened.
It was estimated that over 550,000 people came to
say their final goodbye to their football idols.
Every single police officer, large number of military and off duty police
tried to keep the peace. The authority feared riots will erupt or even a coup.
After the memorial service, State Security agents roamed the area every
single day and removed photos and obituaries of the two football players.
A memorial service of this scale has never happened before
in Bulgarian history and will likely never happen again...
GUNDI
Legend of Love