[instrumental music]
- Ow! My back!
- Dad! Are you okay?
Oh, yeah, yeah.
I'm fine.
It's just that..
...sometimes when you get
to be my age
your body doesn't always do
what you tell it to.
Oh, you mean
you're getting old?
No, I'm not getting old.
Of course not.
It's just.. "Getting old."
I'm in my prime.
- Your prime?
- That's right, my prime.
Here, you stay here
and catch.
I'll show you the old
Bradford screwball.
- Are you ready?
- Yeah.
You excited?
Ow! My shoulder!
Dad! Dad.
Are you alright?
Dad, isn't there any way you can
get out of your...prime?
♪ There's a magic
in the early morning ♪
♪ We've found ♪
♪ When the sunrise smiles on ♪
♪ Everything around ♪
♪ It's a portrait
of the happiness ♪
♪ That we feel
and always will ♪
♪ Oh eight is enough ♪
♪ To fill our lives with love ♪
♪ Oh we spend our days ♪
♪ Like bright and shiny
new dimes ♪
♪ If we're ever puzzled ♪
♪ By the changing time ♪
♪ There's a plate
of homemade wishes ♪
♪ On the kitchen window sill ♪
♪ And eight is enough ♪
♪ To fill our lives with love ♪♪
[telephone ringing]
I'll get it.
Hello?
Oh, hi, Peggy. What's up?
Oh, why? You haven't found
a band for the prom yet?
'Yeah, well, of course,
I'll help.'
'I mean, I want the music
to be just right'
when I'm dancing in the arms
of Steve Robinson, don't I?
Yeah, I know he lettered
in swimming.
I know he drives
a convertible.
I know, he's a hunk.
Well, listen, I'll see
what I can do, okay.
Okay.
Catch you later.
Elizabeth, shouldn't
you be more concerned
with finals than with,
uh, hunks?
Dad, I don't have
any finals.
You see it's the traditional
graduation present
from the faculty
to the senior class.
Oh, that's awfully
generous of them.
Ah, we deserve it.
- Oh, hi, dad.
- Oh, hi, Nancy.
Hey, it was really nice of you
to think of me.
Oh, you read today's column?
'Yep. And I loved
every word of it.'
Uh, especially the part
where you urge
responsible men and women to..
How did you say it?
'Oh, yeah, "Put their trust
in today's youth'
"and pass the torch of hope
and challenge
to a new generation
of Americans."
Um.. Well, I hope
the message inspires
some prospective employers.
Well, what's important is,
you inspired me.
And as soon as I finish
typing up my new resume
I'm gonna go out and knock
on every door in town
till somebody passes
me the torch.
Good for you, Nancy.
And I hope I helped
open a door or two for you
and every other young worker.
Thanks, dad.
[Joannie grunts]
[rattling]
Hey, no joke. I read
that the su1c1de rate
among students skyrockets
during finals week.
Hey, Tommy, somehow I'm not
too worried about you.
Oh, I'm taking my finals
seriously this year.
I brought my books home.
I thought you were
going to the library.
I did.
And it's standing-room only.
Oh, Joannie, uh, how about we
flip for the bedroom?
Sorry, Susan.
Seniority.
Here, let me see, I got..
...look, four, forty,
sixty eight hours
to the first of four exams.
When I cram, I cram alone.
Hey, great attitude, kid.
Look, I thought we agreed
to respect each other's peace
privacy and the pursuit of
passing grades.
Hey, we'll tell that
to my professor
when I hand him an
empty blue book
and uh, thanks a lot, chum.
Hi, Tommy you remember
the band
that opened for
The Beach Boys concert?
Yeah, The Zygotes.
Well, do you know where
I can find 'em?
Yeah, they play down at
The Embryo every weekend.
- You gonna go see 'em?
- No, no, no.
I'm helping Peggy Butler
find a band for the prom
and we think
they'd be perfect.
Elizabeth, The Zygotes
just got a record deal.
They're not gonna play
for a prom.
Well, if you think of anybody,
it's a $ gig.
Three hundred dollars.
Nicholas?
What?
Hey, sorry, little buddy,
but this territory
has been claimed in the name
of Professor Harris
'and Accounting .'
What is that supposed to mean?
It means scram.
Where am I supposed to go?
Everybody's studying.
Oh, go find dad, he probably
doesn't have anything to do.
Uh-uh, Tom,
I have to study.
Oh, come on,
you can take a little break.
No, I-I would love to, but it's
out of the question, really.
- It is?
- Yes.
Do, uh, do you realize
what I'm going through?
First I have to prepare
a final exam for each one
of my students,
and as soon as that's finished
I-I get to cram
for my own test
not to mention the fact
that they all come in--
- Yes, yes. I get the picture.
- Okay.
Um...why don't you go
find Nicholas?
He probably doesn't
have anything to do.
Thanks.
You're welcome.
[instrumental music]
Yes, sir, here is the man
you want to meet.
I may be the publisher
of this newspaper
but in certain areas I prefer
to remain in the background.
And I hold no
editorial reins
on any of my columnists,
right, Tom?
- Tom?
- What?
Oh, right, that's right.
What, I don't-what..
Tom, I'd like
you to meet Mr..
- Ben Ryan.
- Oh. How do you do, Mr. Ryan?
Mr. Ryan would like to discuss
some comments
that you made in your
column yesterday, Tom.
Oh, isn't that nice.
Good or Bad?
Depends on what side
of the fence you're on.
Yes, well I have
an appointment
so I'll let you gentlemen
talk things out.
- Talk what out?
- Right. Bye.
But uh-uh-uh..
W-won't you sit down, Mr. Ryan?
I expected a younger man.
Oh, really?
A man your age
should know better
than to write that trash
you called a column.
Well-well-well,
my column is not trash.
"Passing the torch to
the younger generation." Huh!
Why don't you tell
the whole story?
I don't think you read
the whole story.
What about
the older generation?
You wanna see the old people
sitting on park benches all day?
And going home at night
and eat dog food?
I never said anything like that.
You know how far social security
goes with today's prices?
My column wasn't even
about senior citizens.
Oh, come on, sonny,
I can read between the lines.
I don't write between the lines.
Look, I-I didn't
come here to argue.
I came here
to give you this.
What is this?
What is it?
Your next column.
Oh, now just a second,
Mr. Ryan.
Nobody writes my column
except me.
Did you ever hear
of "Freedom of the press?"
Yeah, and you're free
to do what you want.
But if were you,
I'd print those words.
Well, I am me, and I won't.
Okay, Bradford.
I'll be seeing you.
[dramatic music]
(Nancy)
Hello. Who?
Oh, yeah, Elizabeth.
Uh, just a second.
I think she's home.
Elizabeth?
Telephone.
- Who is it?
- Marshall Spector.
- Well, tell him I'm not home.
- 'Why?'
Because he wants to
ask me to the prom.
So, that's nice.
Nancy, number one,
I've already got a date.
And number two, would you
wanna go to the prom
with the president
of the chess club?
Elizabeth, I think
you should have the decency
to tell him you can't go.
Uh, just tell him, I'm not home.
He'll get the message.
Elizabeth...you shouldn't be
so cold hearted.
Men have feelings too,
you know.
Hello, Marshall?
Elizabeth, your search
has ended, I've got your band.
- Really, who?
- Tijuana Tokyo.
Well, I like the name.
How do I get in touch with them?
You are in touch.
It's my band.
Ah, since when do you
have a band?
Hey, look, I've been jamming
with these guys for a long time.
This could be our big break.
Forget it, Tommy.
Oh, well,
let us at least audition.
'Why should I?'
Because in this family
we share and share alike.
Oh, don't give me that. What are
you gonna share with me?
Ten percent of the take.
I'll see what I can do.
Boy, I'm starving.
Ah, me too.
I haven't eaten all day.
Well, uh, what's happening
for dinner?
- Mary?
- Oh, I don't know.
- Beats me.
- I've been studying all day.
And I set the table.
Oh, Abby, uh, what are we,
uh, having for dinner?
- Pizza.
- Oh.
Pizza.
- Well, where is it?
- I called over an hour ago.
(Susan)
'Did you give him
the right address?'
I think it's time
to break out
the cheese and crackers, period.
I want pizza.
Oh, hello.
This is Tom Bradford.
You were supposed to deliver
an order to Oak Street.
Uh-uh, quite a while ago.
Your driver won't cross
the picket line?
What is it, a pizza picket?
He won't cross my picket line?
[dramatic music]
- What are you doing here?
- Come on now, sonny.
Haven't you ever heard
of freedom of assembly?
This is absurd.
One thing I learnt in my youth,
hit a man where he lives
and he'll listen
to what you have to say.
- 'Right. Right.'
- Now, wait a minute. Please.
Mr. Ryan, maybe if you
would be more reasonable.
We're tired of being reasonable,
it's time for action.
We're not gonna budge
until you tell our side
of the story.
(protestors in unison)
That's right.
I will not be intimidated.
Now, if you don't disperse
immediately I'm..
I'm going to ca-call
the police.
Well, go ahead.
But here's a permit to conduct
the lawful demonstration.
I mean, I.. I don't understand
how demonstrating
in front of my house
could help your cause.
Don't short-change
yourself, sonny.
Everyone in Sacramento
reads your column.
The legislatures,
the governor.
Yes, and that's precisely why
I will not let anybody dictate
to me what I am going
to write in my column.
The politicians say you speak
for the man
on the street,
but we're gonna stay
in your street
until you speak up for us.
(protestors in unison)
Just because we're old and grey
doesn't mean we'll go away.
'Just because we're old and grey
doesn't mean we'll go away.'
'Just because we're old and grey
doesn't mean we'll go away.'
How are we going to study
with all this racket?
Dad, why can't you just
publish the article?
Because I happen to believe
in something called
journalistic integrity.
I mean, If I let myself be
manipulated by pressure tactics
well, I'll lose my credibility
as a columnist.
Right now you're losing
your credibility
as head of this household.
If we ignore them,
they'll go away.
It doesn't sound like they're
gonna give up that easily.
Please, when they find out
that I can't be blackmailed
they'll pick up their things
and go home.
(protestors in unison)
'Just because we're old and
grey..'
Trust me. Will you, please?
'Just trust me,
by tomorrow morning'
everything will be
back to normal.
It's time to get
an equal share.
We want more than Medicare.
It's time to get an equal share.
We want more than Medicare.
'It's time to get an equal..'
- Guess what?
- I know, I know.
Tom, I realize your position
as a journalist
but you have to realize that
there are people who live here
who desperately need
a little peace and quiet.
- Abby, I'll handle it.
- Yes, but when?
We have finals.
[mumbles]
Oh, Tom, I've come up with some
background on your friend Ryan.
Seems that he's been all over
the state organizing
golden agers
into grey brigades.
Who'd believe that, eh?
Middleton Geriatrics.
Elliot, you read my column.
It had nothing to do
with mandatory retirement.
I didn't create that.
This man is creating
an incident.
Tom, you are dealing here
with a real pro.
Seems that, uh, he built
his reputation organizing
the longest strikes
in Sacramento.
Here.
Read what I underlined.
"Known for his
unorthodox tactics
"Ben Ryan att*cks his objectives
with all the subtlety
of a panzer division."
A very accurate description.
- Who said it?
- My father.
Seems that years ago, Ryan
unionized the printers here.
'Got them the best contract
they ever had.'
W-what, what do you
suggest I do?
I don't know what to say, Tom.
I know that you've got
your principles to uphold.
All I can say is this.
Keep that picket line
away from The Register.
We've had enough trouble
with that man.
[door slams]
(protestors in unison)
Fit to hire, not retire.
Put us to use,
we'll still produce.
Fit to hire, not retire.
'Put us to use,
we'll still produce.'
'Fit to hire..'
Oh, those pickets
are driving me crazy.
You know, I can say
one thing for Ben Ryan.
He sure knows
how to stage a protest.
We could have used him
at Berkeley.
(protestors in unison)
'Fit to hire, not retire.'
'Put us to use,
we'll still produce.'
Oh, why is it every time
I open a book
they start chanting again?
I don't know.
- 'Ooh!'
- What?
Oh, Nicholas!
Could you please take your
dribbling elsewhere?
Yeah, like outside.
Where do you think
I was going?
Boy, this house
is full of grouches.
(protestors in unison)
'Fit to hire, not retire.'
'Put us to use,
we'll still produce.'
(Susan)
'Hi.'
Hey.
Elizabeth.
- Elizabeth, what's the matter?
- Hey, what did they do to you?
You okay, kiddo? Huh?
I'm dead.
Oh, come on, Elizabeth,
what is it?
I just found out I have to
take an algebra final.
Half the class are juniors
and the teachers said
if they have to pass the final,
so do the seniors.
Oh, well,
welcome to the club.
You don't understand.
I have not opened
an algebra book
since the mid-term.
I'm doomed.
Go away! Go away!
(male #)
You really think
you can get away with this?
Look, there's no way
I can rehearse with the band
and study at the same time.
Besides, when was
the last time you saw
a teacher look up
a kid's sleeve?
[grunts]
Fini.
Check it out.
The best educated wardrobe..
...in Sacramento.
- Oh, wow!
- Here we have history.
And English.
And of course, chemistry.
And se habla Espanol.
- Bradford, you're a master.
- Yes.
[laughs]
Hey, young fella.
Come over here.
You any good at checkers?
- Yeah.
- Well, come over here.
Sit down and see if you
can whip me.
Here, here, you pick the red.
Here.
I'm Ben.
What's your name, Huck?
Nicholas. I'm supposed
to pretend you are not there.
Is that what your dad said?
Yeah, but can I pretend
you're not here
and still play checkers?
Certainly you can, Nick.
You don't mind if I call
you Nick? Do you?
- You look like a Nick.
- I don't mind.
Good, good, good.
You-you got ahead first.
Watch him close, Nick.
Ryan has no scruples
when it comes to checkers.
Don't listen to him.
He's a sore loser.
How long do you guys
plan to be here?
Well..
That depends on, on when
your father changes his mind.
Well, what do you
want him to do?
We want him to tell the people
about the problems in aging.
What problems?
Well, you lose your job.
You'll lose the feeling
of being needed.
Nobody wants you around.
You feel like a bum.
Come on, Wilson.
You're not a bum.
You see, Nick?
What we are talking
about is pride.
Dignity.
'See, all we really want is
a chance to stay in the game.'
Do you understand?
I think so.
Good.
Go ahead.
[laughs]
If a equals bx
'then how can c possibly
equal a over by?'
Elizabeth, this the only
semi-quiet room in this house.
Can we keep it that way?
Elizabeth, have you
heard anything
about that audition yet?
Tommy, would you quit
bugging me?
I told you I'd set it up.
Okay, okay.
Just let us know when we
have to be ready.
I will.
Elizabeth, uh,
I forgot to tell you.
Nancy, we are trying to work.
I'm sorry.
Marshall Spector called again.
He wants you to call him back.
Oh, are you kidding?
Why would I wanna talk
to Marshall Spector
at a time like this?
Oh, boy. Have you got
a lot to learn about men.
Correction.
I've got a lot to learn
about unbalanced equations.
You know, Elizabeth,
I don't understand you.
Marshall sounds like a very
interesting guy on the phone.
Did you know that he got
a four year scholarship to MIT?
MIT?
That's right.
Marshall maybe a creep, but he's
also a mathematical genius.
You've got his number, Nancy?
Let me have it.
Oh, no, you don't.
You're no taking advantage
of him like that.
- Uh-uh. Forget it
- Give it to me, Nancy.
[rattling]
[thudding]
I'll show you how to do it.
- 'Move over.'
- Oh, sure.
Okay, show me your big
special technique.
- You gotta wack it.
- I did wack it.
You gotta really wack it,
Joannie.
[rattling]
[screaming]
Would you get some help?
[indistinct screaming]
Oh! Oh!
Will, uh.. Will somebody..
Uh, a plumber.
That's what we need.
A plumber.
I'll call him.
Okay.
Uh, someone, uh..
Get some more towels.
[indistinct shouting]
Upstairs.. Are you..
Oh, yeah, sure, I got it.
[car horn honking]
[indistinct chatter]
(protestors in unison)
'Just because we're
old and grey'
'doesn't mean we'll go away.'
'Just because we're
old and grey'
doesn't mean we'll go away.
Just because we're old
and grey
doesn't mean we'll go away.
Just because we're
old and grey
doesn't mean we'll go away.
Just because we're
old and grey
doesn't mean we'll go away.
Just because we're
old and grey
'doesn't mean we'll go away.'
Just because we're
old and grey
doesn't mean we'll go away.
'Just because we're
old and grey'
'doesn't mean we'll go away.'
'Just because we're
old and grey'
'doesn't mean we'll go away.'
'Just because we're old..'
Hello?
[gasps]
(Tom)
What's going on here?
Why didn't you call a plumber?
We did call a plumber, dad.
- Didn't you see him?
- No.
- Where is he?
- Outside.
He won't cross
your picket line.
[dramatic music]
Oh, well, what's the report
from down under?
Pretty grim , dad. All I could
do was shut up the main valve.
You mean, we won't have
any water?
Not unless you wanna flood
your kitchen again.
I'm afraid your problem is
beyond my realm of expertise.
You need a professional plumber.
Sure, find me one that'll
cross the picket line.
Why is it? I write an article
about young people accepting
responsibility and all of a
sudden I can't get a pizza
or a plumber
or a moment's peace around here.
You oughta pick your fights
more carefully, dad.
Ben Ryan still has
a loyal following
among Sacramento's
rank and file.
Well, what do you suggest I do?
- Throw in the towel.
- Hey.
The water went off upstairs.
And it stays off until
dad gets a plumber.
What?
Dad, I have a head
full of shampoo
no water
and a endocrinology exam
'a little more than a day away.'
You have to do something.
Mary, if I were to give in, what
would stop every pressure group
in town from just making
our side walk into a soap box?
Will you look at me?
How can you be so stubborn?
Don't ask me about stubborn.
Ask Ben Ryan.
That's stubborn.
(protestors in unison)
Old age is an outrage.
Old age is an outrage.
Old age is an outrage.
Old age is an outrage.
'Old age is an outrage.'
Good morning.
You have a lot of nerve
saying that to me.
Abby, please.
Be reasonable.
Reasonable? How can I be?
This is my morning
cup of coffee.
I know things
have been difficult, but..
Well, are you just gonna stand
and roll your eyes
or are you gonna do something
about it?
[door slams]
Morning, Abby.
[knocking on door]
(protestors in unison)
'Old age is an outrage.'
'Old age is an outrage.'
Uh..
I hope this isn't
the Bradford residence.
I'm sorry,
but I'm afraid it is.
They called me a fink.
You should've heard
what they called my father.
I beg your pardon.
Never mind.
It's a long story.
Oh..
Uh, my name is
Marshall Spector.
- I'm here to see Elizabeth.
- Oh, hi, Marshall.
- I'm Nancy. Come on in.
- Thanks.
- Uh, we talked on the phone.
- Oh, yeah.
Oh, hi, Marshall.
Uh, you're a little early.
- Oh, I am.
- Yeah.
Unfortunately, I am right
in the middle of cramming
for my algebra exam.
Oh, well, uh..
Maybe I can
help you study.
Oh, no, I couldn't ask
you to do that.
No, really.
Math is my best subject.
Well, come to think of it,
I could use some help.
Come on.
My books are in the dining room.
Nice meeting you.
(protestors in unison)
'Time to get an equal share.'
'We want more than Medicare.'
'Time to get an equal share.'
We want..
What have you got there, Nick?
I picked up the two dozen
prune danishes you ordered.
Oh, thank you, Nick.
Uh..
Mighty nice of you to pick up
the order. Help yourself, boys.
- Here's your change.
- No, no, no. You keep it.
Thanks.
The guy at the store
wanted to know
how long you can hold out?
Well, when I was a boy
working in the coal mines
uh, we lasted days
before the company gave in.
Ninety-seven days?
That's right.
Well, tell me how is your father
taking all this?
I don't know.
Everybody else
is going crazy though.
Even you?
Well, everybody
in the house
is yelling and screaming
and no one wants me around.
But I don't mind 'cause I can
always come out and talk to you.
That's right.
And besides,
as long as you're here
I don't have to take
anymore baths.
[laughs]
Okay. Is this right?
Marshall, is this right?
- Marshall?
- Oh.
- Yes?
- Is this equation right?
Oh, um..
You..
You didn't simplify
all the coefficients.
Oh.
I..
You know, Elizabeth.
I..
I've been trying to get in touch
with you the whole week.
Oh, yeah, well,
I've been real busy.
Oh.
That's alright.
It's probably better
if I ask you in person.
I've got it.
sy times b over c
equals the square root of a.
You know,
how the prom is next week.
Oh, sh**t,
look what I did.
I broke..
Oh, I'm so clumsy.
- Well, here, use mine.
- It's okay.
There's a sharpener
in the kitchen.
Hi.
I thought that you might like
to freshen up.
Oh, a bucket of water
for little ol' me.
Well, actually half a bucket.
I thought we could share.
No, no, no,
it's all yours.
After this I am going to
the YWCA for a nice hot shower.
Abby, this can't go on
much longer.
Or maybe
I'll just get a room there.
Where are the towels?
Well, the last time I looked
they were all over
the kitchen floor.
You mean to say
that we're out of towels?
And you are running
pretty low on underwear.
Abby.
Oh, Nicholas.
Good, good.
Just in time
to help with the wash.
But, dad, how are we gonna
do wash when there's no water?
We'll take it
to the laundromat.
But I hate laundromat.
Don't argue. Go to your room
and get your dirty clothes.
Dad.
Ben Ryan says,
"Anyone who crosses
a picket line
to work is a scam."
No, no, no.
The word is scab.
And if I were you,
I wouldn't listen to Ben Ryan.
Ben Ryan.
[instrumental music]
Okay. I think
I figured out the cosine.
You wanna check it for me?
Elizabeth.
I-I-I have to ask
you something.
Okay, but why don't you
look at this first?
Well, you know,
I-I've been watching you.
From-from far.
Ever since
we were sophomores.
Uh, Marshall, don't you think
we should concentrate
on the equation?
I know you're real popular and
and I'm just a guy
who plays chess, but..
...when you asked me
to come over..
Well, I hoped..
- I mean, I dreamed--
- You must be starving.
Let me get you
something to eat.
I'm not hungry.
Elizabeth.
I want you to go
to the prom with me.
Oh, Marshall, I was afraid
you were gonna ask me that.
You were?
Yeah.
You know, I'd really like
to go to the prom with you
but I already have a date.
Oh.
Well then, why did you
wanna see me?
Um..
You were the only person
who could help me
with my algebra exam.
Oh..
So that's all I am good for.
Oh, Marshall, don't think that.
Elizabeth, you just
wanted to use me.
I'm just a brain to you, right?
Well, I-I thought
you were different
from the other girls
in school.
I guess I was wrong.
Excuse me.
Elizabeth.
Why did Marshall leave
in such a hurry?
To find a date for the prom.
Nancy, would you stop
lookin' at me like that?
Ah, come on, Nancy.
I feel bad enough as it is.
(protestors in unison)
Old age is an outrage.
Old age is an outrage.
Old age is an outrage.
Oh, I'm sorry you had to
see this, Nicholas.
Dad, when is this
gonna be over?
It's getting
to you now too, huh?
No, I just wish
our house would go back
to the way it used to be.
What do you mean,
the way it used to be?
Having dinner and water and
everybody not mad all the time.
Oh, it's just
the pressure of finals.
But everybody had finals last
year and it wasn't like this.
(protestors in unison)
'Old age is an outrage.'
'Old age is an outrage.'
Quiet! Quiet down!
Please, quiet down.
I'm here to make peace.
Mr. Ryan, this thing
has gone on far too long.
Well, I'm glad to see
you've come to your senses.
This means that you're ready
to meet my terms.
I'm ready to negotiate
a settlement.
(Ryan)
'What's your offering?'
I'll see to it that
your article gets printed.
But as a guest column,
not as mine.
- Seems fair enough.
- I think that seems fair.
- Yeah, yeah.
- Alright.
I'll call my publisher
and tell him to start
setting up the print.
As soon as you take these signs
and please go home.
Well, I guess we have a deal.
[all cheering]
Alright, let's go to the bus.
To the bus.
Everybody to the bus.
Excuse me.
Is, is this the Grey Brigade's
demonstration?
- 'Well, it was.'
- Was?
You mean, it's too late?
We were gonna run with it
on the o'clock news.
[chuckles]
- You mean TV?
- Yeah, TV .
- Where are your cameras?
- In the truck.
(Ben)
Well, well, get them out.
- We were just taking a break.
- Wait a minute.
I thought we had an agreement.
He's right, Ben.
A deal's a deal.
- I think we should keep it.
- Well, then you keep it.
This is the break
we've been waiting for.
The rest of us
are going on TV.
'Take your signs
and get in line, everybody.'
(male #)
'Come on, boys, break out
the equipment.'
- 'Get in line.'
- 'Get the cameras out here.'
(Ben)
'Keep the signs high.'
'That's right.
Keep it high.'
Good.
Move it along.
Keep the signs high.
Nice moving. Good.
Move it along, folks.
'Good.
Keep moving, folks.'
Hey, Nicholas,
have you seen my shirts
that were hangin'
in the closet?
Oh, yeah, they're right here.
What are they doing there?
Well, dad and I
washed it for ya.
You mean, you washed
all of my shirts?
Well, not all of them.
Just the one's with all that
junk on the sleeves.
No.
- No, you didn't.
- Yeah, I did.
I'm never gonna have time
to redo 'em before exams.
Nicholas, I'm gonna
launder you.
Uh, Tommy, I'm afraid
I've got some bad news.
Oh, you've got
great timing.
W-what?
Never mind,
what's the bad news?
Uh, the prom committee
hired the The Zygotes.
But we didn't even get
a chance to audition.
I mean,
can't you talk to them?
I'm sorry, Tommy.
But I've got
a lot on my mind, okay?
I'm sorry.
I don't believe this.
Flunked out.
Unemployed in less
than five minutes.
Keep moving.
Keep them high, folks.
You're doing well, Blanche.
'That's good.'
Keep moving, folks.
Nick, Nick, come here.
You wanna meet the TV man?
He's a friend of mine.
I'm back to pretending
you're not here.
Well, what's the matter?
Well, my dad says
you double crossed him.
I don't see it that way.
Well, I do.
See, he was gonna write
what you wanted him to write.
But, but you just went out
on your deal
and finked out.
Well, Nick,
you don't understand
it was a decision
I had to make.
I was thinking of my people.
Well, then what about my family?
I'm sorry for your family,
but sometimes you do things
you don't like in order
to accomplish a greater good.
Then you can do without me.
And my name is not Nick.
It's Nicholas.
Excuse me.
Mr. Ryan, uh,
just what you are hoping
to accomplish
by this demonstration?
The older people
want their rights.
You know they
call us useless?
Well, we're useful.
Just because we're old and grey
doesn't mean we'll go away.
Just because we're old and grey
doesn't mean we'll go away.
Just because we're old and grey
doesn't mean we'll go away.
Oh, no, they're after
Marshall again.
Hey, they're going crazy
out there.
I know. Come on in.
I'm sorry.
You okay?
Well, what brings
you back so soon?
Oh.
I decided I couldn't
let Elizabeth flunk algebra
just 'cause she wouldn't
go to the prom with me.
What a nice thing to do.
Oh, well..
Uh..
I figured why single out
Elizabeth.
No girl wants to go
to the prom with me.
Marshall, that isn't true.
Yes, it is.
I'm through
kidding myself.
Um, I'll go to
the prom with you.
You see, I've accepted
the fact..
Did you just say..
...what I think you said?
You..
...and me?
The prom.
Thank you.
I think I better sit down.
Marshall, what are you
doing here?
Uh..
Oh, uh..
I came back
to help you study.
I tried to call you
to apologize.
You see, I know what I did
wasn't very nice
and I thought that,
well, if you still
wanna take me to the prom
I'll call Steve Robinson and--
Uh, no.
Uh, you don't have to.
I..
Elizabeth.
- I already have a date.
- You do?
With Nancy.
Nancy, who?
Nancy, your sister.
[instrumental music]
Tom, I checked
with the legal department
and they don't quite know
what to advice.
If Ben Ryan has
a legal permit
'you're just not
in a strong position.'
Well, can't I get an injunction
or something?
An order to stop
the picketing.
Well, they thought about that,
but they've decided that
rather than cut through
all that legal red tape
it'll be easier
if you just stick it out.
Oh, yeah, sure.
That's easy for them to say.
Oh, well, now,
Tom, it'll pass soon.
- In the meantime--
- Yes?
Well, in the meantime, The
Register's decided that as long
as TV is covering the story
well, we ought to
have a reporter there.
What?
Uh, now, you just give them
your full cooperation.
After all we don't want The
Register scooped on this story.
Put us to use,
we'll still produce.
(protestors in unison)
Put us to use,
we'll still produce.
I can't hear you!
'Put us to use,
we'll still produce.'
Come on, give me some "Ah."
Give me some "Ooh."
Give me some "Ah."
(protestors in unison)
Put us to use,
we'll still produce.
Put us to use,
we'll still produce.
Put us to use,
we'll still produce.'
Put us to use,
we'll still produce.
'Put us to use,
we'll still produce.'
'Put us to use,
we'll still produce.'
'Put us to use,
we'll still produce.'
'Put us to use,
we'll still produce.'
'Put us to use,
we'll still produce.'
Put us to use,
we'll still produce.
Put us to use,
we'll still produce.
This is a riot!
Enough is enough!
Well, well,
come out to join the protest?
No, we came out to launch
one of our own.
What more do you want, Mr. Ryan?
My father agreed to your terms.
You have your
television coverage.
Whatever it is to promote
the cause.
Oh, I see.
The end justifies the means.
You know, you don't care
about anybody else
as long as you
get what you want.
What do you want us to do?
Turn invisible so you don't have
to think about us.
We just want you to realize
what you're doing to our future.
Hey. We're doing this
for your future.
Believe it or not,
one day you'll be like us.
Did you hear
that speech at Blanche's?
That's what people
need to know.
Look, Mr. Ryan, we-we sympathize
with your causes, okay.
But we have to study.
And you people have made it
absolutely impossible
'to cr*ck a book!'
Why don't you stop
reading books
and take a look
at the real world?
(Susan)
'Well, why don't you pack up
your signs and let us study?'
(Tommy)
'Yeah, you've had your chance
in life, now, step aside'
and let us have ours.
That's great.
You wanna put us on the shelf.
Oh! You're one to talk.
You want us to sit around
until we're middle aged
'before we could even
do anything.'
[indistinct arguing]
Shut up!
[sighs]
I know I'm not supposed
to say that word.
But why is everybody being
so mean to each other?
[instrumental music]
What's going on here?
Shh-shh!
People are trying
to study upstairs.
You see, Nicholas?
This old galvanized pipe
couldn't handle
the pressure anymore,
so it burst.
- Is it all fixed?
- Yep.
What..
Well, what are you doing
in my house?
Hello, Mr. Bradford.
Quiet enough for you?
Yes. But how or why?
Well, what we were trying
to say all along was that, uh
people deserve a chance
to be useful.
Now, what's a better way
to be useful but, uh
put back in order a home
that's been torn apart.
Well, that-that's very nice,
but, Mr. Ryan I..
Ben.
What-what brought about
this sudden change of heart?
Oh, a..
A little fella..
...with a big bullhorn.
You know, I-I guess there were
mistakes made on both sides
but if I hadn't been
so stubborn
the whole thing
wouldn't have happened.
Listen, if someone came
into my office
and hollered the way I did, I
wouldn't listen to them either.
If it does you any good,
that offer
to write a guest column
still goes.
Well, that's very nice of you.
It's gonna do us
a world of good.
I-I got a couple of beers
in the fridge
would you care for one?
Thanks.
[instrumental music]
♪ Blue moon ♪
♪ You saw me standing alone ♪
♪ Without a dream in my heart ♪
♪ Without a love of my own.. ♪
Listen to that music.
I haven't heard that song
in decades.
Look!
♪ You knew just what
I was there for.. ♪
Tommy.
My, my..
Well, a gig's a gig, huh?
♪ Somewhat I really.. ♪
Well, glad you folks could come.
- Uh, can I get you anything?
- No. Everything is fine.
That's just what I was
saying to Blanche.
Well, I-I guess you're glad
the picketing is over, huh?
Over?
We got such great reaction
from the TV coverage
we hit the-the state house
the first thing in the morning.
[indistinct]
♪ Whisper please adore me ♪
♪ And when I looked to the moon
it turned to gold ♪♪
Sonny, do you think you can
liven things up a bit?
Folks are beginning
to nod off.
You mean like, uh,
rock and roll?
Anything with a b*at, man.
Hey, Pete? Hit it!
[rock and roll music]
♪ Blue moon ♪
♪ You saw me standing alone ♪
♪ Without a dream in my heart ♪
♪ Without a love of my own ♪
♪ Blue moon ♪
♪ You knew just
what I was there for ♪
♪ You heard me
saying a prayer for ♪
♪ Someone I really could
care for ♪♪
[sighs]
- Guess we all survived, huh?
- I know.
You mean, finals or,
uh, Tijuana Tokyo?
- Both.
- Well, barely.
I think Tommy
rolled over Beethoven
one too many times,
last night.
Mm-mm. It was an unforgettable
performance.
Mm, but nothing compared
to the way he passed his exams.
Oh, that's right.
The infamous crib shirt's, yeah.
Crib shirt's?
You mean Tommy cheated?
- Well..
- Not really.
He didn't get a chance to.
You see,
Nicholas washed the shirt's.
[chuckles]
But he wrote it out
so many times
I think he knew
the answers.
Off the cuff.
Bad joke.
Hey, Elizabeth.
How was the prom?
Huh, some prom.
I was in by eleven.
Steve Robinson's in training.
(all)
Oh.
[Tom whistling]
Good morning.
Good morning.
In a way.
[whistling]
[rattling]
Ben Ryan
maybe a great strike leader
but he's a lousy plumber.
[all whistling]
[rattling]
[theme music]
[music continues]
03x25 - The Final Days
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The show was modeled on the life of syndicated newspaper columnist Tom Braden, a real-life parent with eight children, who wrote a book by the same title.
The show was modeled on the life of syndicated newspaper columnist Tom Braden, a real-life parent with eight children, who wrote a book by the same title.