	Login Help

Screenwriter Community

by Charles Lagana (Carlomeg@gmail.com)

Rated:

Genre: Drama User Review: NOT YET
RATED
The stealing of the Mona Lisa

LA GIOCONDE

FADE IN:

INT. THE LOUVRE - MONDAY AUGUST 21,1911 - DAY

It's the end of the day.A few visitors,school children with
their teachers are scattered here and there, a guard is
politely telling them that visiting hours are over.Workers
are in the process of cleaning and gathering their tools.A
young man about thirty years old enters,sure of which
direction he is heading. Considering the summer heat he
wears a long coat buttoned all the way.

LUIGI
Hey Vincenzo, I am surprised to
see you here again.

VINCENZO
(Nervous)
I just came by to get the rest of
the tools I left here the other
day.

LUIGI
(Puzzled)
Yes of course. I have not seen
them.Did you find work since you
left this wonderful place?

VINCENZO
No. I am still looking. Times are
hard.

LUIGI
I know, I know. But you are a good
plasterer.You will find something
soon.

VINCENZO
I hope so, otherwise I would have
to return to Italy.

LUIGI
I hope you do not have to do that.
Things are very hard there. I just
received a letter from my mother.
They hardly have money for
food.There is no work....

VINCENZO (Interrupting)
...I know it very well. Hopefully
I'll find some work. I plan to
see someone tomorrow.

LUIGI
...you would think that with all
the people leaving Italy it would
be easy to find a job there. You
are a good worker Vincenzo, and
you should not have any problem
finding suitable work.

VINCENZO
I hope I do not have to return to
Italy. I am hoping not to.

LUIGI
You'll see, you'll see.Things will
work out.

A door opens and a man with an air of authority appears.This
is Monsieur Gerard the curator of the Louvre. He is in
agitated state.

LUIGI (Humbly)
Monsieur Gerard,Vincenzo came by
to get the tools he left here on
Saturday.Is it all right for him
to take them?

MONSIUER GERARD
Yes Perugia you can. As you can
see is closing time so be quick
about it,we are closing in a few
minutes.

VINCENZO
Thank you, monsieur Gerard. I'll
be but a minute.

MONSIUER GERARD
Good luck to you. Oh Luigi,
quickly go downstairs and tell
Monsieur Raynal that I need to see
him in my office immediately.We
have big plans for tomorrow in
the salon Carre'.

LUIGI (Exiting)
Yes, Monsieur Gerard,right of way.

            MONSIUER GERARD
      (Leaving the room
       and speaking over
       his shoulder)
Oh, Vincent, I am sorry we could
not keep you. You are a good all
around worker and I am sure by
tomorrow you will have another
position somewhere. And remember
attitude is very important, make
sure you work on it.

VINCENZO
(Speaking louder)
Thank you Monsieur, I already have
something planned,good night sir.

VINCENZO LOOKING
AROUND GOES THROUGH
ANOTHER DOOR AND
ENTERS THE SALON
CARRE'..

The room is large with many paintings. There is little light
in the room. Vincenzo, sure of himself, quickly crosses over
to his right, turns his head a few times left and right.
Moves closer to Leonardo Da Vinci's Mona Lisa, quickly takes
it down, removes the canvas from the frame and puts the
painting underneath his coat , re-buttons it , hides the
frame behind some boxes and quickly leaves.

Approaching we hear the sound of footsteps, Gerard walks
into the room, Vincenzo has just left by the opposite end.
He checks the wall of paintings to his left, when he is
about to turn to the right Luigi comes running in,
distracting him. He does not notice the missing Mona Lisa.

LUIGI
(Out of breath.)
Monsieur Gerard, I could not find
Monsieur Raynal, he seems to have
gone home already.

MONSIUER GERARD
Where did you look for him?

LUIGI
In his office. The guard said that
he saw him leave.

            MONSIUER GERARD
      (Exasperated)
Always the same story with Raynal.
You go home also Luigi, I'll see
            (MORE)

MONSIUER GERARD (cont'd)
you in the morning.

INT. SAME DAY ,A CAFFE' ON THE LEFT BANK OF PARIS. - NIGHT

Two men are sitting across from each other, drinking
aperitifs. One of the two, looking very much like an artist
has a few empty glasses in front of him. The other elegantly
dressed seems to be sipping the same glass he started with,
he is rather pensive.

DE VALFIERMO
(Sottovoce)
Chaudron, how many are ready?

CHAUDRON
(Voice louder)
How many? How many? I am an artist
I have to be careful with the
paint.It has to dry perfectly.

DE VALFIERMO
Look Chaudron, I do understand but
I need, humm, we need three.

CHAUDRON
(Angry)
Three! This is absurd.Don't you
understand that there are experts
that know how he painted and the
colors that he used. It has to be
perfect.

DE VALFIERMO
These paintings will not be
displayed in any museum anytime
soon.

CHAUDRON
But of course, and you don't think
they will hire scholars to confirm
the authenticity?

DE VALFIERMO
(More insistent)
Give me at least one.I need
one.You have been working on it
for some years. We planned, and
you agreed that it would be done
by now.

CHAUDRON
You have to wait a while longer.

DE VALFIERMO
I can not!I have a commitment with
three very wealthy men. Of course
they all think they are getting
the original.

CHAUDRON
And how are you going to do this?

DE VALFIERMO
This is not your problem.I must
see how good the paintings are.

CHAUDRON
You know how good I am, you have
made some very nice money with me
with other paintings.

DE VALFIERMO
Not that much.This one is very
important.And besides those others
are not important painters.

CHAUDRON
But they are well known painters.
I have seen some of them in art
galleries. I do recognize my handy
work even though they are
fakes.Any way they are originals,
my originals. That's what I think.

DE VALFIERMO
I want at least one. It's
important.I need it by tomorrow.

CHAUDRON
Not tomorrow.

DE VALFIERMO
Chaudron.. I am losing patience.
Tomorrow, is it understood?

CHAUDRON
(Suspicious)
The paint has to dry and dry well,
it must look as it is four
hundred years old. There can not
be any hint of freshness.Can't you
see?

DE VALFIERMO
Chaudron. It must be tomorrow.

CHAUDRON
You are not telling me
everything.What are you up to?

DE VALFIERMO
(Sighing)
You know everything there is to
know.that's what matters.Just know
that you will be making a handsome
amount of money to support your
drinking and everything else you
do.

CHAUDRON
(Downcast)
Fine, fine. But... I don't want to
end up in a filthy, germ infested
French jail. And.. and.., Fine I'
ll have one ready for you. Can you
give me an advance in the
meantime? You know for those
little extras that I need.

DE VALFIERMO
(Sottovoce)
I want one tomorrow.

De Valfiermo drops money on the table and leaves.

INT. APARTMENT IN RUE DE L'HOPITAL SAINT LOUIS - DAY

Small and poorly furnished.There is a small window from
which little light comes through. A small bed is in the
corner of the room,a table is in the middle and a smaller
triangular table is underneath the window with what appears
to be old food. Vincenzo lights a candle. The building being
old does not as yet have electricity.Vincenzo removes the
painting from under his coat and gently, with great
reverence stands it against the table. He has tears in his
eyes. He looks at the painting for a very long time.

            VINCENZO
      (Addressing the
       painting.)
Napoleon,that Italian traitor,
took you from us.I am taking you
back where you rightfully
belong.How perfect you are. I have
looked at you hundreds of times.
You are as perfect as any real
            (MORE)

            VINCENZO (cont'd)
person would be. Are you smiling,
are you sad? I'll take you back
where you belong,all of Italy will
come and see you.All Italians will
thank me for taking you back.How
many eyes have seen your
face.People have come from
everywhere.How many Italians have
really seen you? Not many.I can
see Leonardo's love when he
created you, his paint strokes.His
pain. Who were you? What are you
thinking, why are you smiling? And
why are you sad? Did he love you?
      (Pauses with tears
       in his eyes)
He surely loved you.

MOVES TO THE LARGER
TABLE AND TURNS IT
UPSIDE DOWN.

Vincenzo quickly removes a panel form underneath the table.
He gently wraps the painting in a clean cloth and reseals
the panel.

INT. TUESDAY AUGUST 22, 1911 - DAY

It's early morning a man carrying an easel and paint-
brushes walks in the Salon Carre' where the Mona Lisa would
had been,sets everything up, puts his paints in order and is
ready to paint.

BEROUD
(Gasping)
Oh my God,where is it? Did they
move it.Yes they must have moved
it.

He looks around to make sure that the painting is not on
another wall.

BEROUD
(Hysterical)
Some one,come quickly. Call for
Monsieur Raynal come someone
please come., hurry..

Raynal runs into the room along with other workers.

RAYNAL
(Agitated)
What is it Monsieur Beroud?

BEROUD
(Pointing)
It's gone. Where is it?

Raynal is stunned, can not speak, he can only point at the
empty space on the wall.

Monsieur Gerard enters the room running.

MONSIUER GERARD
(Panting)
Raynal, what is it, what is going
on?

More workers have gathered in the room, they are all in
shock.

MONSIUER GERARD
(More excited)
Raynal, quick go to the police,
make sure you do not tell them why
we need them,see Inspector Lepine,
he is a friend of mine,tell him
that is urgent and I must see him.
Also tell him that he should bring
gendarmes.Raynal speak to no one.

RAYNAL
Yes ,yes I'll speak to no one.

MONSIUER GERARD
Now hurry Raynal.

INT. POLICE HEADQUARTERS - DAY

RAYNAL
(To a policeman)
Can you direct me to Inspector
Lepine?

POLICEMAN #1
Please wait here monsieur.

Policeman leaves, and Raynal paces impatiently.

Policeman # 1 returns within a few minutes.

POLICEMAN #1
Monsieur, the inspector will now
see you, please follow me.

INT. OFFICE OF INSPECTOR LEPINE - DAY

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Good day Monsieur, what is so
urgent so early in the morning.

RAYNAL
My name is Raynal, I am the
assistant curator at the Louvre.
Monsieur Lapine is my superior.Iam
afraid have bad news inspector,
you must come immediately.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
I have known Monsieur Gerard for
some time, but I can not leave my
duties.

RAYNAL
Please Inspector you must come.
I... well if I must tell you but
please tell no one for now what I
am about to say.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Please go on.

RAYNAL
La Gioconde has disappeared.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Impossible, when, are you sure.

RAYNAL
Yes, yes, we don't know, Monsieur
Gerard wants you to come quickly.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
(Screaming)
Rondelle, Rondelle,someone find
Rondelle.Tell him I need him
immediately.

ENTERS ASST.
INSPECTOR RONDELLE

10.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
Yes Inspector, I came as quickly
as I could.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Rondelle, we have an emergency,
get as many gendarmes as you can.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
What has happened? Is there
something wrong?

RAYNAL
La Gioconde is gone, stolen.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Stolen? Are you sure?

RAYNAL
We looked everywhere and can not
find it. We need you to search
everywhere.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Rondelle gather as many
gendarmes,I'll join you
momentarily.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
Yes sir, I am on it.

Rondelle leaves the office, we can hear him shout orders to
the gendarmes.

INT. HORSE DRAWN CARRIAGE - DAY

Lepine, Raynal and assistant Inspector Rondelle are in the
coach on the way to the Louvre.Lepine is pensive.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
I am sure someone at the Louvre
took the painting for some reason
for maintenance perhaps?

RAYNAL
Everyone has strict instructions
not to touch it under any
circumstances.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
Some one who doesn't know the
rules perhaps?

11.

RAYNAL
We can not imagine who would do
that. Monsieur Gerard is very
upset, we believe it has been
stolen.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
This can not be. There has to be
an explanation.In the meantime I
have arranged for gendarmes to
come and search the museum.We will
find it, rest assured.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
I know we will be hearing from the
president and all the newspapers
will be on our backs.We must find
it, as soon as possible.

EXT. MAIN ENTRANCE OF THE LOUVRE - DAY

Raynal and the Rondelle with the gendarmes run unto the
building. Inspector Lepine stays outside looking at the
building and walking around it. He motions to another
gendarme to come over.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Walk around the building and look
to see if any doors were left
opened or ladders laying about.
Let me know if you see anything
suspicious.

The policeman nods and runs off.Inspector Lepine enters the
building

INT. THE SALON CARRE - DAY

Gerard runs to the inspector extending his arms.

MONSIUER GERARD
Inspector, I am glad you came so
quickly, I thank you.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Please calm down, tell me what you
know.

12.

MONSIUER GERARD
This is a tragedy, a disaster, we,
you must find it. It's a national
affront.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
I understand, please remain calm
and tell me what you know.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
You, you and you, search every
room in the museum, we must be
sure that it's not here. Don't let
anyone leave the building.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
(Addressing Gerard)
Monsieur, when did you first
notice the missing painting?

MONSIUER GERARD
I did not discover it, it was, it
was..Raynal what is that man's
name?

RAYNAL
He is Monsieur Beroud.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Is he still here?

RAYNAL
Yes he is, I told him not to go
away.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Don't let him go yet.

RAYNAL
Of course it has already been
done.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Raynal, tell me more about the
people who frequent the Louvre on
a regular basis.

RAYNAL
Of course. As far as Beroud is
concerned he comes almost everyday
and copies the masters and sells
the copies as post cards. He is
not very good, and is quite
(MORE)

13.

RAYNAL (cont'd)
harmless.

RAYNAL
Thank you, let us decide on that.

EXT. THE SAME DAY IN A PARK. - DAY

DE VALFIERMO
(Smiling)
Vincenzo, it's all over Paris that
La Gioconde has been stolen.

VINCENZO
(Downcast)
Yes I heard about it also. News
travel fast.

DE VALFIERMO
Just be careful with it. Keep in
in a safe place and don't speak to
anyone about it. Here is some
money for you,just to carry you
over.There will be more.

VINCENZO
I did not take the painting, I did
not have time.They wouldn't let me
in.

DE VALFIERMO
Vincenzo, do not play with me.I
know you stole it.

VINCENZO
(Insistent)
It's in a safe place.

DE VALFIERMO
Vincenzo, don't fool with me.You
must give it to me, I'll will not
sell it, no one will ever have it.

VINCENZO
Why not?

DE VALFIERMO
Because it will be destroyed.

            VINCENZO
      (Very excited)
Destroy it, destroy it. What are
you saying. This is the greatest
            (MORE)

14.

VINCENZO (cont'd)
painting of all times. You are
insane. no one in their right mind
would think of doing this.This
belongs to Italy and not France.

DE VALFIERMO
(Menacing)
So you have it then. And if you
don't you must tell me who has
it.This is not good for all
involved.

VINCENZO
(Surprised)
All involved? Who else is
involved? You said that you just
wanted me to steal it so that you
could admire it and have it all
for yourself.

DE VALFIERMO
(Threatening)
I lied.The police will most likely
want to speak to you. Remember do
not try to sell the painting on
your own. I'll be in touch with
you do not leave Paris.

VINCENZO
(Loud)
This was not our agreement.

INT. NATIONAL CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION DEPT. - DAY

There is a somber atmosphere. It is apparent that this room
was hastily set up to be the headquarters for the
investigation. People are speaking all at once.Accusations
are flying in every direction.Inspector Lepine raises his
hand motioning that he wishes to speak.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
(With authority)
Gentlemen, there is no point at
this time to accuse each other for
the theft of this natural
treasure. The task at hand is to
interrogate as many people that we
suspect to be the culprits.

15.

            VOICES
      (Loud voices all
       together.)
Inspector...Inspector.. We already
have checked the entire Louvre and
found nothing.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Then we most start again. I
believe the thief will try to sell
the painting. We must advise all
the museums and art dealers in the
world that La Gioconde will be on
the market for sale. I believe
that the person or persons will
try to profit from this.Gentlemen
please do your jobs with
diligence. France counts on you to
find it.

EXT. A NEWS STAND DISPLAYING THE HEADLINE OF THE DAY - DAY

Vincenzo looks at all the newspapers of the day with the
same headline." LA GIOCONDE HAS BEEN STOLEN" He buys Le
Figaro and begins to read it.

VINCENZO
(Reads sottovoce)
"Last night La Gioconde was stolen
from the Louvre. This is a sad
time for Paris and for all of
France. The Police suspects German
and anarchists. Inspector Lepine
of the Surete has been put in
charge in finding and bringing
back to France what rightly
belongs to France. It has come to
the attention of this newspaper
that the police is also interested
in speaking with a Monsieur
Picasso, a Spanish painter now
living in Paris, regarding this
painting also Monsieur
Apollinaire, the playwright.

The interrogation room of Police headquarters.

16.

INT. THE INTERROGATION ROOM AT POLICE HEADQUARTERS. - DAY

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
(Staring)
Monsieur Picasso, what do you know
about the disappearance of La
Gioconde?

PICASSO
(Surprised)
I, why should I know anything
about is disappearance.Just what I
have read in the newspapers.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
Did you not denounce that all the
classic painters should be taken
out of our museums?

PICASSO
Yes I have and I still maintain
that we should look at art
differently.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Pardon, Monsieur Picasso. but did
you not say that they should also
be burned?

PICASSO
(Exasperated)
Yes,but it was only a figure of
speech.Regardless, we should not
be talking about my feelings about
art. Why am I here?

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
Can you tell us where you were all
day yesterday or early this
morning?

PICASSO
(Sarcastic)
Go to Montparnasse, Rue des
Italiens,ask for Madame Juliette,
I do not know her family name, she
models for me occasionally, she
will tell you where and how long I
was there.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
We will do.

17.

PICASSO
Please do, I know what has been
said in the papers about classical
paintings, but the truth of the
matter is that I have great
respect for them.But art is in
transition now.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
Forgive me Monsieur Picasso but at
the present moment I have no wish
to discuss art in general.

PICASSO
Am I here because of my theories
on classical painting?

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
No not at all.

PICASSO
So I can go?

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
Monsieur Picasso, you can
go.Please do leave Paris.We may
want to speak to you
again.(Yelling towards the
door).Let Monsieur Apollinaire in.

Enter Apollinaire, a suave and well dressed man. His looks
are arrogant if not condescending.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
(Apologetically)
Monsieur Apollinaire, thank you
for coming in to see us.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Humn, Please Inspector, lets not
go into formalities.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
Monsieur Apollinnaire, can you
tell us were you were all day
yesterday or early this morning?

APOLLINAIRE
(Smug)
Well last night I was indisposed,I
am sure you know what I mean.

18.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Can you be more specific.

APOLLINAIRE
Discretion does not permit me to
give any name, however, should you
insist there are many powerful
people whose names do not wish to
come to light. Am I making myself
clear?

INSPECTOR LEPINE
(nervously)
But of course Monsieur, forgive
us, you may go and accept our
apologies.

There is a moment of silence.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Rondelle, we are looking in the
wrong places, we can not be guided
by what the papers assume who the
thief or thieves are.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
I agree, but who do you assume.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
We most look more deeply into the
people who work there. That's
where the solution lies.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
But these are simple workers, what
interest could they possibly have
in a precious work of art.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Precisely, what if one or more of
them have criminal connections.
Let's start interrogating them.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
I'll arrange for them to be
brought here for interrogation
tomorrow.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Rondelle, we ca not give anyone
the chance to hide the
painting.You go with a couple of
gendarmes at their apartments and
search their premises. Look at
(MORE)

19.

INSPECTOR LEPINE (cont'd)
everything.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
I agree with you.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
I believe the painting was stolen
last night and not this morning.I
am taking full charge of this
investigation. You Rondelle will
have to assist me in all other
matters of the department.If I
need you for anything I'll will be
calling on you.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
Yes sir, I'll be at your disposal.

INT. VINCENZO APARTMENT. - DAY

There is a loud knock on the door and it bursts open.

VINCENZO
What is this? Who are you?

INSPECTOR LEPINE
We are the police, we are here to
search your apartment.

VINCENZO
But why, what have I done?

The policemen ransack the small room, look at everything but
underneath the table.They nod at each other and leave
without a word leaving the door wide open.A few seconds
later a young woman enters the room.She is young, very
attractive,modestly dressed.

CELESTINA
(Timidly)
Sono io, Celeste.Vincenzo, what
happened here?

VINCENZO
(Looking confused)
Yes,yes (Pause), Celestina what
are you doing here?

CELESTINA
I was bringing you some food.

20.

VINCENZO
Not now, I can't think.Please
close the door.

CELESTINA
That was the police, what do they
want?

VINCENZO
I am not sure, but said something
about La Gioconde.It was stolen
today

CELESTINA
I know the news is all over Paris.
But why you?

VINCENZO
They are looking at everyone that
had anything to do with the
Louvre.

CELESTINA
They can't possibly....

Suddenly the door bursts wide open and De Valfiermo rushes
through with another rough looking man.

DE VALFIERMO
Where is it. I know you have
it.Why is this room a mess?

VINCENZO
The police were here.

CELESTINA
What is he looking for?

DE VALFIERMO
You can fool the police but not
me, where it is it.

DE VALFIERMO
..and who are you? Vincenzo,
perhaps she knows something.

DE VALFIERMO
and isn't she a pretty one.
Keeping her all to yourself?

VINCENZO
She is just a friend.

21.

DE VALFIERMO
..and a pretty one at that. Maybe
she knows where La Gioconde is?

VINCENZO
The papers say that the police
suspects the Germans.

DE VALFIERMO
I don't care what the papers say.
I know you have it somewhere.

The other man indicates to De Valfiermo that he found
nothing.The leave and in doing so DE Valfiermo points a
warning finger at Vincenzo.

INT. AN INTERROGATION ROOM AT THE LOUVRE. - NIGHT

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Boys, look everywhere, it should
not be difficult it's a small
place.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Rondelle, have we interrogated
everyone so far?

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
Everyone three times over. No one
has seen any strangers come in.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
It is someone who knows the Louvre
very well. Someone that can be
moving at will.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
I am of the same opinion,
Inspector.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
The Italian Peruggia...there is
more to that man. I want to speak
to him again. bring him in, I want
to speak to him myself.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
(Apologetically)
But inspector , it is getting
late, everyone wants to go home.

22.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
(Forcefully)
Do what I say, take anyone you
need with you.

The evening papers are arriving at the newsstand. One
headline reads" THE POLICE HAVE NOT FOUND ANYONE RESPONSIBLE
FOR THE THEFT OF LA GIOCONDE. MANY SUSPECTS HAVE BEEN
INTERROGATED, TO NO AVAIL. IS LA GIOCONDE STILL IN FRANCE?
WHAT WILL THEY STEAL NEXT THE EIFFEL TOWER? THE POLICE MOST
DO MORE THEN WHAT THEY ARE DOING RIGHT NOW.

EXT. AN AUTOMOBILE - NIGHT

VINCENZO
(Nervous)
Why does the inspector want to
talk to me gain?

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
Just routine, you know!

Long pause

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
(Condescending)
Vincenzo, how long have you been
working in Paris?

VINCENZO
Just about two years, sir.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
Do you like it here?

VINCENZO
Yes, but I miss my family.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
have you any idea who would steal
La Gioconde?

VINCENZO
No sir, not at all.

INT. ROOM A THE LOUVRE USED FOR INTERROGATION - NIGHT

The room is rather dark, Inspector Lepine quickly gets up
from the chair and approaches Rondelle and Vincenzo.Pointing
at a chair to Vincenzo and whispering to Rondelle.

23.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
(Whispering)
Rondelle, take a few men and go to
Peruggia home and take everything
apart, I know he has the painting.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
(Smiling)
Vincenzo, you were here last
Friday picking up your tools that
you had forgotten. Did you find
them?

VINCENZO
Yes, yes I did.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Did you see anyone that looked
suspicious?

VINCENZO
No sir, I was not paying
attention.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Did you go into into the salon
Carre'?

VINCENZO
No sir I did not. My tools were
right in the little room by the
stairs that go into the garden.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
And how long did it take you to
get your tools?

VINCENZO
No more then a minute.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
..and where did you put them once
you found them.

VINCENZO
They were already in a satchel. I
just picked it up and left.

            INSPECTOR LEPINE
      (Pensive)
I see, I see, but why Vincenzo you
did not take them with you last
week at the time of your
            (MORE)

24.

INSPECTOR LEPINE (cont'd)
dismissal.

VINCENZO
You see inspector, I had two
satchel, and in my nervousness I
took only one.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
..and when did you realize that
the other was missing?

VINCENZO
Friday morning when I went to
apply for another position, and I
realize that one of my satchels
was missing.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
And where is this new position you
mentioned?

VINCENZO
It's Belmondo e Fils, the monument
makers.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Fellow Italians, are they?

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Would they lie for you?

VINCENZO
I don't see why they should, I
have done nothing.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
You know Vincenzo that if you are
the one who stole La Gioconde or
you have helped someone else steal
it you can go to prison for a very
long time.

VINCENZO
But I did not steal it.

INT. BACK AT VINCENZO'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

There are four policemen in the tiny room, They have turn
the room up side down to no avail.

25.

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
Ok boys,nothing here, let's go
home, I don't think this simpleton
would steal anything.

The door was left wide open,Vincenzo enters and he can not
believe his eyes.Closes the door behind him and quickly
looks under the table to assure himself that the painting is
still there.

Celestina now enters unannounced.

CELESTINA
They came back, the police I saw
them. What do they want Vincenzo.
Why do they think you stole the
painting?

VINCENZO
I don't know. Because I worked at
the Louvre.

CELESTINA
(Looking helpful.)
Vincenzo, you can confide in me,
if you took it we can help each
other.

VINCENZO
I think you should go now. I have
to clean this mess up.

He locks the door behind Celestina and proceeds to check the
table for the painting.

EXT. AUGUST 23 1911 - MORNING - DAY

Park de Boulogne,Celestina is walking towards a fountain,
she is looking around as though expecting someone. From
behind a tree De Valfiemo steps in front of her.

DE VALFIERMO
(Smiling)
Celestina you have decide to come
after all. Have seen the painting?

CELESTINA
(Nervous)
No I have not, I don't think he
has it. He did not steal it.

26.

DE VALFIERMO
(Threatening)
Celeste, do not take me for a
fool.I know he stole it and I know
he has it, and I want you to find
it. Remember what I told you.You
do remember, don't you?

CELESTINA
Monsieur De Valfiemo, please, I'll
try but don't tell the police
about me.

DE VALFIERMO
Very well. When you find the
painting and when you can convince
Vincenzo to bring it to me, you
will be able to return to your
miserable village in Italy with a
nice sum of money.Capito?

Celestina just turns and leaves.

INT. UPSCALE HOTEL IN THE CENTER OF PARIS - DAY

De Valfiermo is apparently waiting for someone. He is
fidgety and keeps looking towards the door.

A very distinct man enters, one can see that he is
wealthy.Accompanying him is very well dressed woman, some
years younger then the man.

HUDSON
Mr. De Valfiermo, you spoke to my
secretary that you wished to speak
to me on a matter of most
importance.

DE VALFIERMO
(Hesitantly)
Well yes ( looks at the young
woman)

HUDSON
oh, excuse me. This is my daughter
Rebecca. You can speak freely.

DE VALFIERMO
Sir, I know that you are a very
astute and serious arty collector.

27.

HUDSON
Yes, of course,please come to the
point.

REBECCA
(Bored)
Father, can we speed this up
somewhat?

DE VALFIERMO
Well, sir, madam, I have a
painting of rare beauty,it just
came into my possession.

DE VALFIERMO
Sir, how can i say this... Hhmm,
this must stay between us and no
one else.

REBECCA
Can we please see what you have!

De Valfiermo, picks up a small suit case that he had been
holding and slowly opens it up.

REBECCA
Oh, God no. It can not be. Is it,
it's what In think it is?

HUDSON
Sir, you can be in serious trouble
for this.

DE VALFIERMO
I am aware, but I also aware that
you want this more than anyone in
the world, and like Napoleon you
would love to hang it in your
private bedroom.

HUDSON
No have done your research well.

REBECCA
Father, can it be? Is this the
one?

DE VALFIERMO
Madame, it is.

HUDSON
I have to have someone I trust to
verify it, of course.

28.

DE VALFIERMO
But of course, in the meantime I
need a sizable deposit. There are
others interested parties willing
to see it as soon as possible.

HUDSON
Ten thousand dollars, would that
do?

DE VALFIERMO
For now, but please Mr. Hudson
don't wait too long.

Hudson and Rebecca look at each other and smile.Approach
each other with a hug and then a passionate kiss.

INT. THE STUDIO OF CHAUDRON - DAY

IT IS THE NEXT DAY AND DE VALFIERMO ENTERS RATHER ANIMATED.

DE VALFIERMO
(Whispering)
Good morning Chaudron.(Pauses)You
are going to be very wealthy my
good friend.

CHAUDRON
(Sarcastic)
.. and you? Remain poor?

DE VALFIERMO
In few moments two people will
arrive to inspect your
masterpiece. Well, really
Leonardo's. But they wouldn't know
that would they Chaudron ?

CHAUDRON
But of course not, if I can help
it.

DE VALFIERMO
Excellent.

There is a faint knock on the door and Hudson and Rebecca
come in. Both dressed elegantly.But still acting as father
and daughter.

29.

DE VALFIERMO
Good morning Mr Hudson and you
Miss Hudson. This is my friend
Yves Chaudron.

Chaudron barely acknowledges the new arrivals.

REBECCA
Can we see the work? We are very
anxious.

DE VALFIERMO
Chaudron, would you please?

Chaudron leaves the room. The three look at each other
rather awkwardly. Of the three Hudson is visibly the most
nervous. When Chaudron enters he runs over to see what he is
carrying.

            CHAUDRON
      (With a glee in
       his eyes.)
Madam, here it is.

REBECCA
(Stuttering) I would have never
believed it. I am so close to
it.Father, we must have it.

HUDSON
Let's not get too excited.
Monsieur Chaudron, may I please?

DE VALFIERMO
Yves, I don't you.

Hudson picks the painting up carefully with both hands and
with Rebecca at his side walks to a window to inspect it.
The linger on it for some time, looking and nodding at each
other.

HUDSON
I am not quite sure, that this is
authentic.

DE VALFIERMO
Mr Hudson, I do not have to tell
you what happened in the last few
days. As I have indicated to you,
others are very anxious to see it,

30.

REBECCA
Father, we must have some one else
authenticate it.

HUDSON
Of course Rebecca, I do know this.

De Valfiermo is getting more fidgety, his nervousness is
becoming more apparent.

HUDSON
I must agree with my daughter, but
before we do you must give me a
price.

DE VALFIERMO
Sir, there is no value for this
piece of art. It can not and will
not be established. It must go
only to someone who will
appreciate its beauty and enjoy it
for himself, or another person for
the rest of his life.

HUDSON
I agree. I need a price.

DE VALFIERMO
One million dollars.

HUDSON
Very well.The painting must be
well hidden not to arise any
suspicions.Come with it tomorrow
at my hotel and I'll have the
money in cash for you.Now we must
go. Goodbye Eduardo, I can call
you Eduardo no?

DE VALFIERMO
But of course, we are friends now,
no?

De Valfiermo leaves, Hudson and Rebecca look at each other
and smile.

INT. SAME DAY VINCENZO APARTMENT - NIGHT

It's dusk, we find Vincenzo alone in his dark apartment,
only a small candle is burning. Vincenzo is staring at the
Mona Lisa.

31.

VINCENZO
(Dreamingly)
Why, oh why did he take you away.
You belong to Italy, you were born
there ,Leonardo made you there and
that thief took you., that Italian
who became French. But he stole
you, yes he did. Italians have the
right to see. You belong to them.

There is a faint knock on the door.

VINCENZO
(Goes to the door.)
Who is there?

CELESTINA
(Faintly)
Vincenzo, it's me Celestina.

            VINCENZO
      (taking a deep
       breath)
Celestina, what is it.I was just
going to lie down, I am very
tired.

CELESTINA
(Insisting)
Vincenzo,let me in, I have
something important to tell you.

Vincenzo opens the door hesitantly. Block the door as
Celestina tries to come in.

VINCENZO
(Somewhat short)
What is it, I was about to go to
bed, I have to go to work.A new
position that I found.

Celestina come trough the door.

CELESTINA
(Insistingly)
Vincenzo, I know about the
painting.

VINCENZO
(alarmed)
You know? What do you know?

32.

CELESTINA
(Surprised)
Yes I know. I know you stole it,
and I know it's here. Don't know
exactly where.

VINCENZO
Celestina, why would I steal the
Mona Lisa? For money? No one could
ever sell it.

CELESTINA
(Thinking)
No, not for money. For an
ideal.Vincenzo, I know you have
it. Trust me. Let me help you.

Celestina moves closer to Vincenzo. He moves away somewhat
embarrassed, she gets closer, he resists, she gives him a
little kiss. His eyes sparkle. She gets on tiptoes and gives
him a kiss, he at first resists. She becomes bolder and
gives him a hearty kiss. This time he does not move away.
Along passionate kiss ensues.

CELESTINA
Well, well, what a surprise.
Vincenzo you are not the shy one
after all.

CONTINUES

CELESTINA
Vincenzo! We are both Italian, you
must trust me. Let's work
together.

VINCENZO
(Pensive)
I..I... what do you mean?

CELESTINA
I mean that I know where she is.

Celestina, pans the room, her eyes look at the four walls.
She starts walking around the apartment. Lifts things here
and there. She makes it appear as though she is looking, but
she isn't.Quickly she goes to the table, looks underneath.
Touches something and a false bottom drops down.

            VINCENZO
      (Hysterical but
       whispering)
What are you doing? There is
nothing here. Go, go away. I don't
            (MORE)

33.

VINCENZO (cont'd)
want you here.

CELESTINA
I know, I know. It's under the
table. Vincenzo I already saw it.

Vincenzo is stunned, tries to block the table form
Celestina. She gets around him, almost comically.She reaches
under the table and pulls out the painting.

CELESTINA
(Whispering)
Is it?Is it? God I can not believe
it. Vincenzo is it the real one?

Vincenzo picks up the painting gently and puts it on a table
against the wall.Now they both look at it.

VINCENZO
(Whispering)
Yes, yes.. of course it is.

CELESTINA
So you are the one who stole it.
How did you do it?

VINCENZO
Celestina, it does not matter,
how.It's important why.

CELESTINA
Fine .. why?

VINCENZO
Because, Celestina it does not
belong to France, by right it
belongs to Italy.

CELESTINA
How do you intend to take out of
France?

VINCENZO
With you help,now that you know.

CELESTINA
Yes, yes, I can see it now.
Vincenzo you are correct. I can
see your dream.

34.

VINCENZO
Look at it. Have you ever seen
such a beautiful painting? Does it
not speak to you. Celestina , it's
in our hands. There are people out
there that would kill for this.

CELESTINA
Such as De Valfiermo?

VINCENZO
De Valfiermo? How do you know him?

CELESTINA
Yesterday, he was here looking for
you.

VINCENZO
For me? But I was here?He came
back?

CELESTINA
(Lying.)
I did not know that he had been
here before.

VINCENZO
You did not know who he was?

CELESTINA
No, he said he knew you and wanted
to speak to you. Told me his name.

VINCENZO
How did you know I took the
painting?

CELESTINA
Well, I knew you worked at the
Louvre. I just assumed.

VINCENZO
(Menacing.)
Celestina, you are lying. You are
endangering my life. I ca not let
you go now.

CELESTINA
No, no. Vincenzo, please. Let me
explain. I...I..

35.

VINCENZO
(Grabbing her)
What did you tell him.Tell me what
you said. Did you see anyone else?

CELESTINA
(Loud)
You are hurting me.

VINCENZO
Don't scream, the neighbors will
hear you.

Celestina proceeds to tell Vincenzo how she came to meet De
Valfiermo. Vincenzo proceeds to hide the painting again
underneath the table.The both leave the apartment.

EXT. A SMALL STREET IN MONTMARTRE - NIGHT

As Celestina and Vincenzo are walking two men run up to
them, one holds Celestina and the other proceeds to beat up
Vincenzo.

EXT. SOME MINUTES LATER - NIGHT

Vincenzo is stunned, looks around and realizes that
Celestina, is no longer with him.Gets up and starts running
towards home.

INT. VINCENZO'S APPARTMENT - NIGHT

Vincenzo runs to the table and looks to see if the painting
is still there. Satisfied that it is, thinks for a few
moments, and leaves again,

EXT. OUTSIDE VINCENZO'S BUILDING - NIGHT

De Valfiermo is there with a rough looking individual.

DE VALFIERMO
(Angry)
Vincenzo, where are you going?
Looking for someone?

VINCENZO
(Confused)
No, no I am going to get something
to eat. Who should I be looking
for?

36.

DE VALFIERMO
Not a pretty young thing?

VINCENZO
No not at all.

DE VALFIERMO
Nice looking Italian girl that my
good friend Chudron would love to
paint, perhaps in the nude.

VINCENZO
Monsieur , I beg of you she has
nothing to do with this.

DE VALFIERMO
So you say. What do you think
Gaston?
Does she have something to do with
a certain painting?

GASTON
For sure, boss, for sure.

DE VALFIERMO
If you do not produce the
painting, you will never see your
betrothed

VINCENZO
She is not my fiancee, she is just
a friend. Nothing else.

DE VALFIERMO
So you want to tell her family in
Italy that she died under your
care?

VINCENZO
She is not under my care.

DE VALFIERMO
Vincenzo, I know you have it? You
have one hour. Get it to me or
your friend, betrothed, or
whatever you wish to call her,
will never see her native land.

DE VALFIERMO AND
GASTON LEAVE.

From the shadows Inspector Lepine and assistant director
Rondelle appear.

37.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Well. well, if it isn't our friend
Vincenzo Peruggia. I had no idea
that you were acquainted with De
Valfiermo?

VINCENZO
I do not know who he is?

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
And you have nothing to do with
the painting? You do not know
where it is?

VINCENZO
No I do not.Last time I saw it it
was hanging at the Louvre.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Vincenzo, Vincenzo, we will find
it, rest assured.

VINCENZO
Why me, I know nothing of such
things.

INSPECTOR LEPINE
Why, because you are the logical
explanation to the missing art. Be
om guard.

VINCENZO
I know you have already searched
where I live, and you have found
nothing, so why do you suspect me?

ASST. INSPECTOR RONDELLE
We know you have something to do
with it, Vincenzo be careful, if
you think that De Valfiermo is a
tough character we are much
tougher and much more relentless.
Be on your guard.

LEPINE AND RONDELLE
LEAVE

INT. CHAUDRON STUDIO - NIGHT

De Valfiermo, Gaston,Chaudron and Celestina are all
together. Gaston is holding Celestina, who is gagged and is
holding her by the arms, De Valfiermo is in front of her and

38.

Chaudron is painting a Mona Lisa. Celestina is staring at
the painting and can not believe what she sees.

DE VALFIERMO
Chaudron,look at the nice present
I brought you. See how I think of
you?

            CHAUDRON
      (With out turning
       around)
I am busy, I want to finish this.
Don't you want me to finish it?

DE VALFIERMO
But of course I do.Turn around and
look.

Chaudron turns around and his eyes widen at the site of
Celestina.He liks his lips a few times and approaches
her.Gaston puts himself between Celestina and Chaudron.

CHAUDRON
My, my what a pleasant surprise.

DE VALFIERMO
Easy Chaudron, not yet, not before
you finish what you promised.

CHAUDRON
I know, I know, but could I have a
little taste. She can be my
Gioconde.

DE VALFIERMO
You will have a whole meal, but
first things first.

Celestina is struggling to get away from Gaston, to no
avail.

DE VALFIERMO
She is feisty, just imagine
Chaudron how she will be in the
bedroom.

There is a knock on the door, they all look at each other,
Chaudron motions every one to be silent,covers the painting
of the Mona Lisa then approaches the door.

CHAUDRON
Who is it?

39.

A muffled voice is heard.

CHAUDRON
(Louder)
Who is it?

VINCENZO
Vincenzo Peruggia, I am here to
see Monsieur De Valfiermo

Chaudron looks at De Valfiermo, puzzled, as if to say" Now
what?",De Valfiermo gestures him to open the door. Vincenzo
enters wearing the same coat he was wearing the day he took
the painting.

DE VALFIERMO
If it isn't our friend Vincenzo.
So have you changed your mind?

VINCENZO
I have what you have been looking
for.

CHAUDRON
And what is that?

DE VALFIERMO
I know what he has, let's see it.

VINCENZO
Not before you let Celestina free.

DE VALFIERMO
You are not in a position to
bargain.Gaston show him why he is
not in the position to bargain.

Gaston pulls a gun from under his coat and points to
Celestina.

Vincenzo suddenly changes his demeanor, no longer he is the
simpleton that we have seen.

VINCENZO
Don't be foolish, De Valfiermo,
you are too intelligent to make
such a foolish mistake.You will do
as I say, I know exactly what your
plans are.

DE VALFIERMO
Well, well, we have found a
rooster. What do you propose?

40.

VINCENZO
First let Celestina go.

De Valfiermo motions to Gaston to take the gag off her and
lets her go.

CELESTINA
Vincenzo, what is happening,I do
not understand.

VINCENZO
You go now, wait for me at home.

CELESTINA
Yes, yes, please be careful.

CHAUDRON
I have no idea what is going on
here.

CELESTINA LEAVES.

DE VALFIERMO
Be quiet Chaudron.Vincenzo where
is the painting?

Vincenzo opens his coat and pulls out the painting.They all
look at it astonished. Chaudron is speechless.

DE VALFIERMO
Congratulations Vincenzo, I knew
all along that you had it.

VINCENZO
And now it's yours, but first you
must pay.

DE VALFIERMO
Pay?, I have no intention of
keeping it.I told you that before.

Chaudron has the painting in his hands and is handling very
carefully.

CHAUDRON
Lord, I never would have believed
that someday I would have it in my
hands. The real thing that is.

DE VALFIERMO
Enjoy it a few more minutes
Chaudron, then it goes.

41.

VINCENZO
No, it goes nowhere, you will not
destroy it.

DE VALFIERMO
and how are you going to stop me?

VINCENZO
well, you see, I left a note at my
quarters, I instructed Celestina
to bring it to the police if I am
not back in an hour. I suggest
that you get in touch with a
certain person you mentioned that
is interested in the painting, you
will sell it and give me my share.

CHAUDRON
That is a good idea, this way I do
not have to go to jail for
forgery.

DE VALFIERMO
(To Chaudron)
You still owe me three paintings.

CHAUDRON
Yes of course, I just thought...

DE VALFIERMO
.. you thought, you thought, just
compare your painting to this and
see how good yours really is.

Chaudron walks to the easel, takes down the cover and puts
the stolen Mona Lisa next to his.

CHAUDRON
The painting and colors are the
same, but I do not have the aging
of the canvas. I could never get
so close to it as to be able to
copy it exactly.

DE VALFIERMO
Chaudron, are you positive it's
the original?

CHAUDRON
No doubt.

42.

DE VALFIERMO
Chaudron, memorize everything
about it and give it to me. Gaston
you come with me. Vincenzo, you
can go but not tricks, capito?

VINCENZO
You are forgetting something
aren't you?

De Valfiermo, takes money out of his pocket and hands it to
Vincenzo.

VINCENZO
Are you insulting me?

DE VALFIERMO
This is all I have.

VINCENZO
Then I'll go with you instead of
your friend here.

DE VALFIERMO
I can't.

VINCENZO
Try.

Vincenzo takes the painting and they both leave.

EXT. THE OUTSIDE OF CHAUDRON STUDIO - NIGHT

De Valfiermo and Vincenzo come out from the back of the
building.

Just around the corner we see Inspector Rondelle is hiding
in the shadows and follows De Valfiermo and Vincenzo.

Rondelle fallows them to a fancy hotel.

INT. AN EXPENSIVE HOTEL - NIGHT

HOTEL CLERK
Good evening Monsieur, how can I
be of help?

DE VALFIERMO
(very cordial)
We are here to see Monsieur
Hudson, he is expecting us.

43.

HOTEL CLERK
Very well sir, I will announce
you. Who should I say you are?

DE VALFIERMO
Please ,tell monsieur that
Monsieur De Valfiermo and Peruggia
are here to see him.

The clerk dials a telephone .

HOTEL CLERK
Good evening madam there are two
gentlemen here to see Monsieur
Parker(Pause) I see, yes of course
I will tell them.(Pause), Yes, Yes
I shall.(Hangs up the
telephone).They would like for you
to wait a while.

DE VALFIERMO
A few minutes? Did they say how
long?

HOTEL CLERK
Madame said fifteen minutes and
then to send you upstairs.

DE VALFIERMO
Madame?

HOTEL CLERK
Yes sir, I believe she is Mr
Hudson's daughter.

Vincenzo pulls De Valfiermo aside.

VINCENZO
What is this? One of your tricks?

DE VALFIERMO
I don't know what is going on,wait
don't do anything.

De Valfiermo approaches the reception desk.

DE VALFIERMO
My good man, I see that you do not
recognize, I am ..

HOTEL CLERK
..I know who you are sir, I have
seen you many times, yes sir!

44.

VINCENZO
(Emphatically)
Then let Mr Hudson know that we
are coming up.

HOTEL CLERK
I can't, I have been instructed.

VINCENZO
De Valfiermo, let's leave here.

DE VALFIERMO
Vincenzo, do not make the mistake,
we are going to see Hudson.

The concierge's phone rings.

HOTEL CLERK
Yes? Can I help you? Yes, yes
Monsieur Hudson, Monsieur De
Valfiermo is right here, no,no he
is not alone. No sir, another man.
Certainly.... (Hands the phone to
De Valfiermo), He wishes to speak
to you.

Before the Concierge can finish speaking De Valfiermo and
Vincenzo head for the elevator.

INT. THE SITTING ROOM OF MR HUDSON - NIGHT

HUDSON
I am sorry gentleman but we had an
appointment with someone right
before you, please sit down.

DE VALFIERMO
(Puzzled)
But you were expecting us, hm, me.

HUDSON
But of course. Sometimes certain
things can not be avoided.

VINCENZO
You are interested in the
painting?

HUDSON
Of course I am

45.

VINCENZO
Have you seen it?

REBECCA
Of course we have seen it?
Everyone that comes to Paris has
seen it.

            VINCENZO
      (To no one in
       particular)
But have you really looked at it,
Have you seen it close up. Like
this.

HUDSON
Well.not that close, but we
certainly know what it looks like.

VINCENZO
No you do not.You must see it as
close as your nose to appreciate
it.

REBECCA
Isn't this why we are here?

HUDSON
We have asked someone to give us
their honest opinion on the
validity of the painting.

DE VALFIERMO
But of course.

FADE OUT.

Feedback

There is currently no feedback for this screenplay.

Leave Feedback

You must be logged in to leave feedback.

Home My Account Products Screenwriter Community Screenwriter's Corner Help