Wednesday, February 28, 2007

Speed Limits

I wish you'd tell me what's engraved on that anklet.

Just my name.

As for instance?

Phyllis.

Phyllis, huh. I think I like that.

But you're not sure.

I'd have to drive it around the block a couple of times.

Mr. Neff, why don't you drop by tomorrow evening around 8:30? He'll be in then.

Who?

My husband. You were anxious to talk to him, weren't you?

Yeah, I was. But I'm sort of getting over the idea, if you know what I mean.

There's a speed limit in this state, Mr. Neff, 45 miles an hour.

How fast was I going, Officer?

I'd say around 90.

Suppose you get down off your motorcycle and give me a ticket.

Suppose I let you off with a warning this time.

Suppose it doesn't take.

Suppose I have to whack you over the knuckles.

Suppose I bust out crying and put my head on your shoulder.

Suppose you try putting it on my husband's shoulder.

That tears it.…. 8:30 tomorrow evening, then.

That's what I suggested.

You'll be here too?

I guess so. I usually am.

Same chair, same perfume, same anklet?

I wonder if I know what you mean.

I wonder if you wonder.

Double Indemnity, screenplay by Billy Wilder, from a novel by James M. Cain

5 comments:

Damian Arlyn said...

I've always loved that exchange. I think that was the scene that made me realize, when I first saw the Double Indemnity, that I was watching a great film. Classic.

BTW In case you didn't get it on the other post, here is my contribution to the blog-a-thon.

Squish said...

Damn you Duncanson, now you have me pining to watch that too!

Steve C. said...

Awesomeness. Was there anyone who got more out of MacMurray than Wilder?

My contribution is going to be delayed, owing to difficulty in securing material. Alas, alas...

The 'Stache said...

My contribution to your blog-a-thon is up, as well.

Edward Copeland said...

Seems as if the only one not officially participating in the blog-a-thon is this site. We're more than halfway through March 1 and there still hasn't been a post indicating the start of the festivities or linking to others.