Man Who Sued God The

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00:02:05 In the latest weather news...
00:02:07 a severe storm warning
00:02:11 The weather bureau has also warned of high
00:02:17 Farmers are advised
00:02:22 What's wrong with you, Arthur?
00:02:38 I know, that's where I'm going.
00:02:46 Here we go.
00:02:52 We're nearly there, Arthur.
00:03:09 Something tells me that this isn't
00:03:14 That's instinct, old son.
00:03:17 - This is a day for spaghetti and wine.
00:03:21 And bones, of course.
00:03:30 - Why, it's princess Ornatharicus.
00:03:36 - How many did you catch?
00:03:42 I have a lobster for your mum. Hold that,
00:03:46 - Don't worry about it.
00:03:49 We're having chops.
00:03:52 Tell your mum to put the kettle on.
00:04:00 Dad!
00:04:04 Come on, Arthur.
00:04:07 Stupid dog, come on.
00:05:09 Dad, come back!
00:05:45 - Let's have a look. That will have to come off.
00:05:49 The shoe.
00:05:51 - God, what were you doing?
00:05:56 Forceps, pliers, bone nibblers.
00:05:58 - What the hell are bone nibblers?
00:06:02 Yes, it's been a brilliant day.
00:06:08 - I thought the lightning had got you.
00:06:13 This could hurt a bit.
00:06:29 Not going out today, mate?
00:06:32 Jesus, that's a real thigh-slapper.
00:06:37 - You need anything else?
00:06:40 Things always go wrong for Dad.
00:06:42 - I feel sorry for him.
00:06:44 He's got no boat, no house, no you.
00:06:46 They say people make their own luck.
00:06:49 That's stupid.
00:06:52 The wind must have come howling up here, right
00:07:01 - Place insured?
00:07:04 - You insured?
00:07:08 The old place stood up very well, though.
00:07:12 I was gonna rent one of your caravans
00:07:16 Take a pick.
00:07:16 I don't want to crowd you and Jules,
00:07:19 - me being the ex and everything.
00:07:24 Does Jules know you guaranteed my loan?
00:07:27 You sure you're insured?
00:07:32 It's in the boat.
00:07:39 - The premium's up-to-date. I checked.
00:07:44 - It's comprehensive insurance.
00:07:52 - What do you mean, 'Act of God'?
00:07:56 My boat was where the lightning struck
00:07:59 It was an accident, for fuck's sake.
00:08:01 It's in your policy.
00:08:03 Yes, look. Comprehensive.
00:08:07 I'm sorry.
00:08:11 Bastards. Pains in the arse. Parasites.
00:08:16 You can disappear up your own...
00:08:26 David Myers, please.
00:08:35 What's this crap about 'Act of God'?
00:08:38 Is that what they've got you on?
00:08:43 It's a load of bollocks.
00:08:46 That's true, but it's a legitimate legal
00:08:50 Why would I need insurance
00:08:52 Tell me that.
00:08:54 - Going down here?
00:08:56 Call them, write them a letter, threaten and
00:09:01 You're a lawyer.
00:09:06 That's very good.
00:09:13 See you later.
00:09:16 - What's the problem
00:09:19 Don't tell me, they're not gonna pay?
00:09:24 - Of course. Can I borrow the car?
00:09:29 - Thanks very much.
00:09:47 Has it occurred to you that
00:09:51 A grow-up call?
00:09:52 I don't know. I suppose it could be something
00:09:56 Stop talking to the bloody dog!
00:10:00 - Did you think you were going to die?
00:10:05 Do you think you're ever going
00:10:09 But it's you I thought about,
00:10:13 Do you know what I though?
00:10:15 I thought you saved me
00:10:21 You've never forgiven me, have you,
00:10:24 It's your life,
00:10:30 You always do.
00:10:41 How do you do??
00:10:45 I'm sorry to bother you,
00:10:49 And I thought I might pop in.
00:10:53 I'm very grateful for your time.
00:10:58 I'm very grateful for your time.
00:11:01 I know you're busy balancing the
00:11:05 Actually, how do you do that?
00:11:09 There's been a little mistake here.
00:11:12 Little for you, big for me
00:11:15 Normally, I wouldn't bother you,
00:11:19 and my boat
00:11:21 Did you read your policy, Mr. Myers?
00:11:23 - I have a daughter.
00:11:27 - Four people are facing ruin.
00:11:31 - It's a wonderful painting.
00:11:36 - Yes it said 'fully comprehensive'.
00:11:40 There's the thing. It doesn't say
00:11:44 It's because it's widely understood.
00:11:50 Locusts, pillars of fire, plagues of boils,
00:11:54 God's not in charge of that stuff anymore.
00:11:59 - I'm sorry.
00:12:05 My ex-wife's partner guaranteed
00:12:09 with his bloody caravan-park,
00:12:12 I didn't come here to take no for an answer.
00:12:14 No. Sorry.
00:12:17 This may seem an obvious question, but if I
00:12:22 and this crutch was to disappear down your neck
00:12:27 Would that be an ‘Act of God'?
00:12:29 Grey area.
00:12:34 I'm not leaving.
00:12:38 That's the worst fucking painting
00:12:43 Very good.
00:12:47 What are you doing?! I can walk,
00:12:51 I have a life, you know.
00:12:53 You're a low-brow, bad taste,
00:12:59 I'm not finished with you.
00:13:03 I'll give you locusts. Boils. I'll give you whirlwinds.
00:13:09 I'll get fucking mad!
00:13:12 You can jump out of your fucking windows!
00:13:20 Fucking great!
00:13:23 Excuse me, Mr. Myers,
00:13:49 - Sorry I'm late.
00:13:53 - Should you be taking those with that?
00:13:58 Waiter.
00:14:00 I'm sorry.
00:14:04 Another one of these, pal, would be lovely.
00:14:08 - Let's go somewhere else.
00:14:12 We've got a wee job to do. We're gonna sue
00:14:18 Don't be stupid. Armies of lawyers
00:14:22 Their liabilities are defined in minute detail.
00:14:25 What about God's liabilities?
00:14:32 I'd love to help you. I love you like
00:14:36 I'm your brother.
00:14:38 Have you met my brother?
00:14:41 No more drink.
00:14:43 Why don't you fuck...
00:14:49 Let me help you up.
00:14:53 - My skirt!
00:14:57 I didn't mean anything with that.
00:15:11 - Just piss off.
00:15:14 I haven't even eaten anything.
00:15:19 'Scuse me, I'm sorry.
00:15:24 One night,
00:15:27 a seed of humanity was planted when a family
00:15:33 They started cooking on it, having
00:15:37 they learned reason and manners.
00:15:39 Restaurants are directly descended
00:15:44 But the animal that entered my
00:15:47 would not have been tolerated
00:15:51 Drunk, stinking and abusive he proceeded to
00:15:58 It looks like you've made a friend there.
00:16:02 Couldn't say it very clear, huh?
00:16:05 This is just another one of
00:16:07 You dig a hole, everybody else falls in,
00:16:11 Not me, pal. Not this time.
00:16:17 - Good morning, The National.
00:16:21 She writes a column at your paper, remember?
00:16:24 Hi, this is Anna Redmond.
00:16:28 Do you know that experiments
00:16:31 they recognize the truth far more
00:16:34 And with a wee bit of training a squid will
00:16:40 You were only doing your job, and you didn't
00:16:46 You really wanted to be a nurse in Africa,
00:16:51 I'm sure you're not there. You're probably
00:16:57 The fact is, modern journalism sucks.
00:17:01 Does it? I'm not so sure.
00:17:03 Of course it does. You told me it does.
00:17:07 Look at this. Some little twerp three weeks out
00:17:12 It's all opinion and narcissism.
00:17:16 Three years ago I used to report,
00:17:19 - I was in Washington, Moscow, Beijing.
00:17:23 I had food poisoning, I missed the coup.
00:17:27 The fact is I was writing stories.
00:17:28 Where am I now?
00:17:32 Is that the column?
00:17:34 Yes.
00:17:38 It's not journalism.
00:17:42 - You're a woman of influence.
00:17:46 - You know what your trouble is?
00:17:50 You're very exciting when you're like this.
00:17:52 - I don't know why we haven't slept together.
00:17:56 The reporter. Report. Go after a story,
00:18:01 - Really?
00:18:04 - So we skip the column?
00:18:07 - You still want the column?
00:18:39 Bugger them.
00:19:19 You really wanted to be a nurse in Africa,
00:19:25 I'm sure you're not there. You're probably
00:19:31 Do you think I've done
00:19:37 I hope you're right.
00:19:46 There he is.
00:19:47 - How did it go up in town?
00:19:51 - Are they going to pay?
00:19:55 - What is that supposed to mean?
00:20:02 You are not going to sue.
00:20:05 You're going to sue one of the
00:20:09 Apparently I wouldn't stand a chance.
00:20:14 I've sent writs on
00:20:20 We've got this fisherman issuing writs against
00:20:25 but I've got a pretty good nose
00:20:28 And I can smell an idiot a mile off.
00:20:53 Now it's time for our weekly chat
00:20:58 - Good morning, Anna.
00:21:00 What about this character suing God?
00:21:02 - It's a summons?
00:21:05 - It's not a prank?
00:21:08 - Some religious fanatic, I suppose.
00:21:12 Leave it with me, Your Eminence.
00:21:14 Sometimes I don't know what
00:21:17 - Should you admit to that in your position?
00:21:29 - What's your advise?
00:21:35 - What do you think?
00:21:40 There's a lot of very strange
00:21:45 It's a stunt for money.
00:21:49 I wouldn't go that far, Dirk.
00:21:51 The insurance companies have been using
00:21:56 - So it's stood the test of time.
00:21:59 social and political changes,
00:22:03 Intellectually speaking
00:22:06 - A 'woolly mammoth'? I don't follow.
00:22:08 - The mammoth died out.
00:22:12 Never mind. The insurance companies
00:22:18 As far as I'm concerned
00:23:08 - For once I agree with you, David.
00:23:12 But David, it is Steve.
00:23:17 - Absolutely.
00:23:21 Christ Almighty!
00:23:24 I'll tell you what, Arthur.
00:23:28 Not many dogs have ideas as good as that.
00:23:31 - Hi. Caught any fish?
00:23:37 - Do you know someone called Steve Myers?
00:23:43 - He's over there.
00:24:01 - Mr. Myers?
00:24:06 - I know you.
00:24:10 You're the guy from the restaurant.
00:24:11 I'm just a tourist from New Zealand,
00:24:15 I'm sorry you didn't like what I wrote.
00:24:19 What do you want me to do?
00:24:22 I don't want you to do it.
00:24:30 Don't you want to talk to them?
00:24:32 I don't want those people
00:24:39 - You're gonna have to sooner or later.
00:24:43 - Leave me alone and bugger off.
00:24:47 - You? I don't think so.
00:24:53 Hurry up, there.
00:24:57 Come on, Arthur.
00:25:00 Come on.
00:25:03 Quick.
00:25:07 Will you behave yourself!
00:25:11 Help me.
00:25:12 Look at the way you're rocking
00:25:15 Stop the boat.
00:25:26 Towel?
00:25:29 Thanks for the help.
00:25:32 Give him a good rub and be careful
00:25:38 - Tell me again, what did you agree with her?
00:25:43 She wants an exclusive.
00:25:46 wines and dines you, then writes a three page
00:25:53 Remind me, you've been
00:25:56 I read, I watch TV.
00:26:01 Oh, I see, the real world.
00:26:05 You know what I mean.
00:26:07 - Are you going to be famous, Dad?
00:26:11 She loves me.
00:26:16 Since issuing the writs Mr. Myers has remained silent,
00:26:22 A zealot of some description, most likely.
00:26:25 I wouldn't worry. His wheels have
00:26:29 I'm surprised you do not know.
00:26:31 - I think you have to respond.
00:26:35 - I think he could be dangerous.
00:26:37 He's more than a crank, Your Eminence, and I think
00:26:42 He may be deluded,
00:26:45 - Are you sure of this?
00:26:51 This is going to be a big story.
00:26:59 Shut up, Arthur.
00:27:06 - Hello.
00:27:09 I knew it.
00:27:12 I don't want to appear desperate.
00:27:28 - What have we got?
00:27:33 I bet you hate those,
00:27:36 I love them.
00:27:41 Is that a stunt, suing God?
00:27:44 - No, it's not a stunt.
00:27:50 Yeah...story. You wind me down, then do a three
00:27:58 You can't win without the media.
00:28:00 - I just don't want them on my side.
00:28:06 Excuse me, I've got you wrong.
00:28:12 The highly principal, fair minded,
00:28:16 Listen. What you're doing, suing God...
00:28:21 It's a brilliant idea.
00:28:23 You're going to the core, the kern of the existence,
00:28:29 Nobody is gonna understand it,
00:28:33 and the whole thing is gonna be last,
00:28:38 I just thought I could help.
00:28:41 I'm not really suing God, you know.
00:28:44 I just hate the way that people use God as
00:28:49 I know what you're doing.
00:29:01 I have to confess a personal interest.
00:29:07 I really hate insurance companies.
00:29:10 A reasonable position, in my view.
00:29:14 Maybe the company would settle if
00:29:17 They've never settled. Trust me. They can't.
00:29:22 You have to scare them. Really put the
00:29:28 That's why you need me.
00:29:31 Ladies and gentlemen, please put your hands
00:29:43 Welcome.
00:29:45 We've got a great show for
00:29:49 We're ready for you now.
00:29:52 Oh...the fucking Bible.
00:29:54 The fisherman from the south coast
00:29:58 Don't give them a lecture.
00:30:02 - It doesn't need logic, like language does.
00:30:06 It's so powerful. It's annihilating.
00:30:11 Television has made the world less
00:30:15 We're living in a mosaic of
00:30:18 half-comprehended,
00:30:21 - Pavlov's dog.
00:30:25 - Not even like dogs. More like hamsters.
00:30:29 Its essential function is
00:30:32 When you make it out there
00:30:41 - What was I saying?
00:30:44 We live in a world of simulations,
00:30:49 Cressida Roache is not a person.
00:30:52 A combination of familiar,
00:30:56 You've got to force her back into a hole.
00:31:01 - Excuse me.
00:31:06 Don't be dull and unanimated. Laugh a lot.
00:31:11 Sure.
00:31:16 This way, please.
00:31:19 Could you please wait here for a moment?
00:31:21 You've got a tissue in your...
00:31:24 - Can I take it?
00:31:29 You're good?
00:31:30 - Hi Steve. Cressida Roache.
00:31:33 Anna's filled me in on the background.
00:31:38 Mr. Myers, we're ready for you now.
00:31:42 - You okay?
00:31:44 - Good luck.
00:31:50 Stand by.
00:31:58 Welcome back.
00:32:00 Who is this Steve Myers,
00:32:03 We thought we'd find out.
00:32:14 Many people might think this is the work of a crank.
00:32:24 You find it amusing?
00:32:25 No. Well, yes. Somewhat.
00:32:30 Would you call yourself a religious man?
00:32:32 Somewhat.
00:32:37 In the broader sense, perhaps.
00:32:41 - Sometimes when you're out at sea it's easy to...
00:32:48 It's that thing, "What is God?".
00:32:51 And, indeed, "Where is God?",
00:32:57 That's very funny.
00:33:00 - It's not a joke.
00:33:02 No. The joke is the insurance companies.
00:33:05 You give your money to some global corporation
00:33:08 on the pretext that they will cover
00:33:12 Then something happens and they won't
00:33:17 - You're assuming God exists?
00:33:20 Logically, if your argument is
00:33:23 There is no logic involved. Forget logic.
00:33:27 For instance...
00:33:28 If a woman is driving a car and she's in
00:33:32 and her daughter isn't covered by the insurance,
00:33:37 That's not to say that the girl hates
00:33:42 - This is unprecedented, isn't it?
00:33:46 This is the Bible.
00:33:49 I think you'll find that it says
00:33:53 "There is nothing new under the sun."
00:33:59 I'm sure it offends some folks,
00:34:03 - What about offending God?
00:34:07 Not if he has some sense of justice.
00:34:14 - Steve Myers, thank you very much.
00:34:24 Gerry, did you see him?
00:34:28 - What did I tell you.
00:34:32 Thanks for your calming influence.
00:34:36 Hi. Maxime Jeffrey, Hawk Magazines.
00:34:40 That's great. We'll be in touch.
00:34:42 Great.
00:34:48 - You're very popular.
00:34:53 Did you ever think of doing anything
00:34:57 No, I wanted to be a nurse in Africa.
00:35:03 Apparently, some of you think that
00:35:07 He's not,
00:35:10 He's outraged some religious groups, but Steve Myers
00:35:16 The council of churches, together with
00:35:20 meet today to discuss
00:35:24 Ladies and gentlemen,
00:35:26 let us pause for a minute's
00:35:30 and ask God for wisdom
00:35:34 The fellow's been seen on TV.
00:35:40 - The reverse normally applies.
00:35:44 'Does God have a case to answer'', 'Is there
00:35:49 It's the 'Me-society'.
00:35:54 Figuratively speaking.
00:35:58 Mystery-schmystery.
00:36:02 - Mystery and clout.
00:36:07 If you want to keep the money,
00:36:11 I think we can take it as
00:36:13 I hope he does.
00:36:14 - I spent half the morning singing to him.
00:36:18 I am serious. If God's responsible,
00:36:23 - We need a lawyer.
00:36:27 If he can't get this nonsense thrown
00:36:33 If you want my opinion, if the court's got any
00:36:37 and Myers along with it.
00:36:41 He's caused too much division in the community.
00:36:49 - The Federal Court of Australia is now in session.
00:36:53 Call the case for hearing?
00:36:56 Myers versus God.
00:36:59 Gentlemen?
00:37:02 Gerry Ryan on the behalf of the Roman Catholic Church,
00:37:06 and the Jewish community.
00:37:10 And the defendant is?
00:37:12 There is no defendant.
00:37:15 - The defendant is God.
00:37:17 That is a moot point.
00:37:19 God and the churches are one.
00:37:26 If God is responsible
00:37:28 the religions are responsible.
00:37:31 God is an entity with nominated
00:37:35 - And the basis of your case is?
00:37:38 then God is liable.
00:37:40 The churches are God's representatives on earth.
00:37:42 If they wish to deny liability
00:37:47 then they are guilty of contravening section 52,
00:37:52 "A corporation shall not, in trade or commerce,
00:37:58 - Rubbish.
00:38:00 And to deny that responsibility
00:38:04 The case doesn't merit the hearing.
00:38:07 It is frivolous, without legal precedent
00:38:11 - And Mr. Myers lacks any ethics.
00:38:15 - The boat was worth what?
00:38:19 Not a frivolous amount, Mr. Ryan,
00:38:24 I'm not satisfied the action is entirely without merit.
00:38:31 Mazy from Foster. Go ahead, Mazy.
00:38:33 I just wanted to say that
00:38:38 This man has no scruples, no ethics
00:38:41 - And no case, if you ask me.
00:38:45 - I think it's immoral.
00:38:50 I'm Dirk Striker, and I'm unhappy.
00:39:00 I've got something to show you.
00:39:05 Your fan-mail.
00:39:08 Houses lost in landslides,
00:39:13 Acts of God.
00:39:16 Field breaks.
00:39:26 - Is this your father?
00:39:31 - You're thinking class action.
00:39:35 Give me nightmares?
00:39:40 - Do you want to go to the balcony?
00:39:44 If I go down with my boat that's one thing, but I
00:39:54 Why did you give up law?
00:39:56 Because I was good at it.
00:40:00 and I was expected to become a lawyer.
00:40:02 It's like being born a sheep,
00:40:07 It's not much of a life when
00:40:10 - Are you a good fisherman?
00:40:14 but a happier fisherman.
00:40:18 I hated it.
00:40:20 The average punter goes to court expecting a little
00:40:25 What did you see?
00:40:30 the sole purpose of which is to make
00:40:35 It's the world turned upside-down.
00:40:37 I wouldn't drag anybody through that system
00:40:41 I'm certainly not going to do it to myself.
00:40:44 Did you ever think the Lord
00:40:47 Of course not. The most you
00:40:56 I should warn you I have a brown belt in Ju-Jitsu.
00:40:59 I could very easily throw you onto the roof.
00:41:07 Read some of the letters.
00:41:13 You're making a mistake.
00:41:15 Nevertheless, we don't want
00:41:19 I'm instructing you, Gerry.
00:41:27 - This is great. Thank you.
00:41:33 - I'm only doing this for you.
00:41:40 It was a mudslide. They said it wasn't our fault,
00:41:45 They said it was an 'Act of God'.
00:41:47 - Afterwards?
00:41:50 They said the water has to come from above,
00:41:56 How can a flood come from above?
00:41:59 It was humiliating.
00:42:02 They treated us like criminals.
00:42:07 And they make you feel like
00:42:14 - What did you say?
00:42:28 No. Why would I know where he is?
00:42:31 Really? Now?
00:42:35 I'll tell him if I see him.
00:42:41 - Gerry Ryan wants you to meet with him.
00:42:46 - No, I'm not coming.
00:42:56 - I don't think they let women in here.
00:43:05 We don't have women here as a rule.
00:43:10 I was hoping to meet
00:43:13 - I invited Ms. Redmond, is that all right?
00:43:17 Regular Bonnie and Clyde, aren't you?
00:43:21 My clients have instructed me
00:43:24 for replacement value of the boat,
00:43:27 - How much?
00:43:32 Unless you're planning on
00:43:34 - What if there were other plaintiffs?
00:43:39 There is an undertaking that you will cease
00:43:45 Jointly or separately,
00:43:52 there.
00:43:53 - I'll need some time to think about it.
00:43:56 - Can I just have a little look?
00:43:58 $160.000 is the evaluation.
00:44:01 I suppose many people
00:44:04 In the world of dog eat dog
00:44:08 Embarrass the churches
00:44:11 the churches being the only people with
00:44:14 It is a generous offer, Mr. Myers.
00:44:18 Personally I'd be delighted if you refuse.
00:44:23 Would you excuse me for a moment?
00:44:29 Let's go.
00:44:35 Are you seriously thinking about that?
00:44:38 I didn't promise anything.
00:44:40 Silly me.
00:44:43 Right.
00:44:45 It's not as if you're trying to set
00:44:50 Precisely. I'm not.
00:44:55 - He accepts.
00:44:59 $200.000 for the story. Ms. Redmond has
00:45:06 Congratulations.
00:45:16 - All done?
00:45:19 Explain to me how you could do
00:45:22 It was really easy. I just told him:
00:45:28 So I can ram them up your
00:45:38 And you thought I would take
00:45:42 This is a class action.
00:45:46 - What are you after? Some kind of moral victory?
00:45:51 Do you have lawyers?
00:45:52 Yes, me. I'm a lawyer.
00:45:56 - Who's picking up the bill?
00:46:01 Is this a political mass campaign?
00:46:03 This is a legal action.
00:46:08 Before this,
00:46:11 Until you're old, frail, sick, dead,
00:46:14 But you're stuffed anyway.
00:46:19 - That's ridiculous. Anyway, he's the Church's problem.
00:46:24 If he wins and they lose, who do you
00:46:30 What do we do then?
00:46:32 Nothing much, just prove God exists.
00:46:37 As the suit against God gathers momentum
00:46:39 religious groups around the country
00:46:43 With some experts predicting
00:46:47 the consequences will be profound, not only for
00:46:52 In these most troubling and perplexing times,
00:46:57 What are the others doing about it?
00:46:58 They're all praying.
00:47:04 We are looking at almost 800 co-plaintiffs
00:47:11 There has been a backlash against the outspoken
00:47:17 who are urging their followers to peacefully
00:47:52 These people are not returning my calls.
00:47:56 I have no idea.
00:48:00 - I found some here I think we might call.
00:48:06 - What was the name of that insurance agent you wanted?
00:48:12 Who ordered this?
00:48:15 Quiet!
00:48:18 I need help.
00:48:21 - Forget it.
00:48:24 - You're dead right there are.
00:48:30 You could have stayed down in that little town,
00:48:33 made a perfectly good living
00:48:37 But no, not you.
00:48:42 Instead you become a bloody fisherman,
00:48:46 Wasn't Jesus a carpenter?
00:48:48 Then the prodigal son
00:48:50 the great human rights crusader,
00:48:53 I get it. Jealousy.
00:48:57 Don't you talk to me about a hobby.
00:49:02 I came here for your help.
00:49:05 Join Steve Myers
00:49:08 so he can spend the rest
00:49:11 Join in the public humiliation?
00:49:13 You brought this on, and now maybe
00:49:17 - You should have had when you...
00:49:20 When you were ten.
00:49:47 - What the hell has happened out there?
00:49:52 I thought I'd catch up on a couple of
00:49:55 - Daddy.
00:49:59 - What's happened?
00:50:02 And they smashed the shower-blocks,
00:50:05 They poisoned the water and I almost drank it.
00:50:11 We have to talk.
00:50:15 The bank rang.
00:50:18 We made one payment,
00:50:20 The caravan park's a miss. The insurance
00:50:25 There's no money coming in.
00:50:28 - I'll see what I can do.
00:50:32 - David says you had an offer.
00:50:36 Why didn't you tell us? That was our
00:50:42 You turned it down.
00:50:45 - I have a plan.
00:50:50 We're gonna sell-up.
00:50:55 My family's there.
00:50:58 - How am I supposed to see Rebecca?
00:51:02 We don't have a choice.
00:51:10 Do you know what we need, Arthur?
00:51:16 What do you reckon?
00:51:21 No. I didn't think so.
00:51:33 I'm sorry, it's very late.
00:51:44 - Give it a good push forward.
00:51:50 - There's a handle somewhere.
00:51:53 It looks like a handle, funnily enough.
00:52:04 That's it.
00:52:44 I thought I might go see Ryan.
00:52:48 If Ryan thinks he's got you on a spit, he's just
00:53:07 When I was about ten
00:53:12 and the insurance company wouldn't pay.
00:53:16 My father, he was a salesman,
00:53:24 After that he went away a lot,
00:53:28 and he stayed away.
00:53:32 When he did come home it was even worse.
00:53:37 What I'm saying is...
00:53:42 I know what you're going through.
00:53:46 You can't, if you don't have a child.
00:53:51 I'm sorry, but you can't.
00:53:53 No, but I was a child.
00:53:57 I've survived in a fashion.
00:54:03 I can't be separated from her.
00:54:07 No, you can't.
00:54:12 I don't know what to do.
00:54:20 Your bed's made.
00:54:33 - I believe in you.
00:54:40 They will too.
00:54:49 - Good night.
00:55:30 The Greeks would say the gods were
00:55:34 Testing you from your doubt.
00:55:39 Bastards.
00:55:46 I wrote 2.000 words of
00:55:48 you reduce it to 800 words of twaddle
00:55:52 - I don't think it was objective...
00:55:55 - Who's got to you, Hal?
00:55:59 The Greeks would say the gods were holding us to
00:56:04 The Greeks are bastards.
00:56:16 You're very real.
00:56:21 I like it.
00:56:32 Fuck. I don't believe it.
00:56:38 Stop the car.
00:56:51 It will be worth your while,
00:56:56 Excuse me, gentlemen.
00:57:00 It's still alive!
00:57:04 This fish has more decency in its arsehole
00:57:11 And you, my so-called brother!
00:57:14 How could you sit here paddling
00:57:19 I'll see you both in court.
00:57:29 You have invested me with
00:57:33 If we lose,
00:57:37 It is not a matter for compromise
00:57:41 Though, if you lose,
00:57:46 Lose, and in this cynical, mercenary age
00:57:54 If the churches lose
00:57:59 'Act of God'? There'll be an endless cycle
00:58:06 I'll win this
00:58:09 And I know you won't forget
00:58:15 - No turning back now, right?
00:58:30 The feelings are running high as we
00:58:38 I have nothing to say.
00:58:46 The Federal Court of Australia is now in session.
00:58:58 - If they're experts in acts of God...
00:59:04 Well said.
00:59:06 Mr. Havers, you've been an insurance
00:59:10 - Seven years.
00:59:14 - Could you tell the court what you saw there?
00:59:21 - It was struck by lightning?
00:59:25 - Did you see any evidence of storm?
00:59:30 - Acts of God?
00:59:33 I see.
00:59:37 It looked very much like it,
00:59:41 This committee employed by your company to
00:59:46 - Not necessarily.
00:59:51 - Aren't they priests or theologians?
00:59:58 - Mr. Piggott, you're the general manager
01:00:04 Correct.
01:00:05 Would you explain to the court the purpose behind
01:00:10 The purpose is to protect
01:00:15 against occasional calamities
01:00:20 - Does it mean that God caused the event?
01:00:26 - It's a figure of speech.
01:00:30 Or 'away with the fairies'.
01:00:36 - It's not to be taken literally?
01:00:44 Consumatum est.
01:00:48 - Thank you, Mr. Piggott.
01:00:52 An act of storm, an act of weather,
01:00:56 The names of the things that have
01:01:00 Because it's customary
01:01:03 Would that be because 'God' has a certain ring to it?
01:01:07 - that exists only in the name of God?
01:01:11 He's knocked off your copyright,
01:01:18 Would you say that the sinking
01:01:23 I beg your pardon?
01:01:26 It was a ship. It struck an iceberg, and...
01:01:30 Yes, that's right. The orchestra played
01:01:35 - I don't think it was one of ours.
01:01:39 I'm not surprised. An unassessible risk, an iceberg.
01:01:44 - And yet the insurance companies paid out.
01:01:48 Yes, they did. In order to avoid the
01:01:55 One last thing. Last year your
01:02:04 Yes, something of that order.
01:02:06 Did you remember to thank God for it?
01:02:12 Mr. Myers has given notice that his
01:02:16 The day belonged to Mr. Myers
01:02:36 Record high temperatures, strong winds and electrical
01:02:43 Steve Myers kept the pressure on today,
01:02:47 These witnesses, insurance company executives,
01:02:54 I quite liked you today, you know that?
01:02:59 What?
01:03:04 - Remind me how you came into my life?
01:03:09 - He said you were beautiful, and smart...
01:03:17 It was the house I was born in.
01:03:21 - The insurance company didn't pay?
01:03:30 - Mr. Ryan?
01:03:34 The insurance industry reckons that the
01:03:38 The churches can't possibly agree with that.
01:03:43 - I suppose for legal purposes...
01:03:48 For moral purposes?
01:03:51 Is there such a thing as an 'Act of God'
01:03:55 I shouldn't think so.
01:03:59 It means what it says,
01:04:01 Do you think my boat was sunk by an 'Act of God'?
01:04:03 Who can say with these things?
01:04:06 The insurance companies
01:04:09 But we don't go running around saying when
01:04:15 Did God make the bolt of lightning
01:04:19 Yes, and no.
01:04:21 These things do not have easy answers.
01:04:23 If you can't tell me what's an 'Act of God'
01:04:28 how can some shiny-arse
01:04:31 Quiet, please.
01:04:34 If God does exist,
01:04:39 The Churches can only win if they
01:04:48 Do you want to tell them?
01:04:52 Aren't you hopelessly compromised, Your Eminence?
01:04:57 That we mustn't take his name in vain?
01:05:01 Using his name to justify a
01:05:05 It comes close to it,
01:05:08 Isn't that blasphemy?
01:05:10 To be truthful, I suspect we haven't
01:05:14 Do you think it's because the Churches,
01:05:17 whose combined wealth could easily
01:05:21 are massive shareholders in financial institutions,
01:05:28 What are you doing
01:05:37 We are not perfect, Mr. Myers.
01:05:40 We've been on the wrong side
01:05:44 We are blind to much injustice,
01:05:48 - Guilty, no question.
01:05:54 Good, it would take eternity to hear it.
01:05:58 I want to know if you recognise
01:06:03 A little intolerance, perhaps?
01:06:07 I'm not the one on trial.
01:06:09 And nor is God, I assure you.
01:06:11 My god is an eternal wellspring
01:06:15 of love, hope and inspiration for millions.
01:06:20 He moves mountains.
01:06:23 How does your faith compare with that god?
01:06:27 - It's a poor world without faith.
01:06:33 I mean love of God.
01:06:38 Have you felt that?
01:06:43 the loss of your boat is nothing.
01:06:50 Who knows?
01:06:54 It was a sign?
01:06:57 - I wouldn't rule it out.
01:07:01 - You are excused, Your Eminence.
01:07:06 The court is adjourned for lunch.
01:07:16 Anna, I'm sorry,
01:07:22 That's a joke. Any decent legal system would have
01:07:26 for public nuisance. Instead of that,
01:07:30 and we're looking at half a billion
01:07:32 At least the cardinal
01:07:35 That bloody took time to fight after all.
01:07:40 What are you going to do?
01:07:45 Make his miserably life more miserable.
01:07:50 - Have we taken care of the girlfriend?
01:07:57 - Bye, Anna.
01:08:02 Westerly winds from the Red Centre
01:08:07 casting an eerie glow over the
01:08:15 Your Honour, I'd like to call
01:08:24 Retired senior constable Gidman
01:08:29 - Makes him look criminal.
01:08:32 Obstructing a bulldozer, drunk and disorderly,
01:08:38 He was having a pee off his boat.
01:08:40 The former policeman also said that
01:08:45 involving his ex-wife and her de-facto
01:08:49 - And inappropriate for a 12 year old girl.
01:08:53 I said, switch it off.
01:08:55 Myers had apparently paid no tax for 3 years,
01:09:06 There have been questions about
01:09:09 that have threatened
01:09:11 Cockroach! Bloody sewer rats!
01:09:18 It's not gonna work for them, though.
01:09:22 - What's the matter?
01:09:25 I'm not gonna let this
01:09:29 There you are.
01:09:33 - To say what?
01:09:37 - But he didn't.
01:09:45 What's next?
01:09:48 Just you wait and see.
01:09:54 Your honour, I'd like to call...
01:09:59 Anna Redmond.
01:10:16 I swear by Almighty God that the evidence I shall
01:10:27 - You are a journalist for The National?
01:10:32 - Was it something to do with Mr. Myers?
01:10:36 No, God is. And at any other time in
01:10:41 The Almighty surely has the right
01:10:45 Proceed.
01:10:49 I ask you again,
01:10:53 - The thought crossed my mind.
01:10:57 You have a keen interest in his case,
01:11:01 made numerous radio appearances.
01:11:04 It's newsworthy.
01:11:05 You could sell his story for twice
01:11:12 Will you tell the court about Michael?
01:11:18 We have the letters.
01:11:20 I presume you mean...?
01:11:31 He died. I found him on the carpet.
01:11:36 I should tell the court that Michael was a goldfish.
01:11:42 How much did you get for it
01:11:48 - I don't remember. Who cares?
01:11:51 Do you know how many claims you've
01:11:56 Injury to a cat from a
01:11:59 That nearly killed her.
01:12:02 Not before you stood on her
01:12:05 It is a history of unremitting obsession.
01:12:09 - I think that's overstating it.
01:12:12 Everyone was legitimate.
01:12:15 - You don't like insurance companies, do you?
01:12:20 Will you tell the court what happened
01:12:26 1966? Don't be ridiculous.
01:12:31 It's a quiz, is it?
01:12:33 1966, 23rd of March...?
01:12:35 Martin Luther King got shot?
01:12:37 The war ended?
01:12:41 - What were you doing?
01:12:45 Did it?
01:12:46 The insurance company
01:12:49 - They said it was arson.
01:12:55 - That it wasn't arson.
01:12:58 It wasn't arson. It was their excuse
01:13:03 We lost everything.
01:13:05 You've never forgotten, have you?
01:13:08 My father went to jail.
01:13:12 Isn't it true that because of that incident
01:13:18 When you saw his little game, you saw a chance
01:13:21 to satisfy your lifelong passion for revenge?
01:13:24 Attempts to make the biggest
01:13:28 It is a fraud, a hoax, a swindle.
01:13:33 - at night they chase the loot.
01:13:37 Why are you on the phones to the
01:13:40 That's not true.
01:13:42 I have small affidavits from two editors.
01:13:46 I am happy to put them on the stand.
01:13:52 We are fucked.
01:13:55 Why didn't you tell me?
01:13:56 It was not relevant.
01:13:59 Of course it was relevant.
01:14:02 - What's all that stuff about arson?
01:14:05 - My father was a hundred miles away.
01:14:09 We are buggered.
01:14:13 How many claims was it?
01:14:15 So what!? Do I persecute minorities?
01:14:20 I made legitimate claims.
01:14:26 He slandered me, he slandered my father.
01:14:30 This is an attack on me
01:14:33 - I'm not a crank.
01:14:35 I wouldn't even be doing this
01:14:37 I want my boat, it's all I ever wanted.
01:14:40 I'm not the one following people, trying to
01:14:47 The only reason I made that
01:14:50 So that if everything fell apart
01:14:55 So why didn't you say you'd been fired?
01:14:57 For supporting you. Isn't that a joke?
01:15:03 I don't know.
01:15:07 Just go.
01:15:10 Please just spare me the time.
01:15:21 How the fuck are you
01:16:20 Ryan wants me to testify
01:16:24 And naturally you told him where to stuff it?
01:16:28 He's gonna put me on the stand. If I deny it,
01:16:34 If you deny it?
01:16:39 Senior partnership?
01:16:42 He did.
01:16:44 Listen. Steve, please,
01:16:48 You can't possibly win.
01:16:51 Because they can't afford to lose.
01:16:54 They've had you at moments,
01:16:57 And excuse the pun,
01:17:00 And you'll be sunk even deeper in
01:17:03 They know that keeping you there
01:17:08 Where will you be then?
01:18:22 Drop your case.
01:18:25 I'm sorry?
01:18:27 You've dropped your case.
01:19:31 If you give up your obsession,
01:19:36 - You're not a crank.
01:19:42 I could be in court for the next 20 years.
01:19:48 How does a moral victory sound to you?
01:19:53 There's a lot to be said for a moral victory.
01:20:01 This may contain a few clues.
01:20:05 "He that diggeth a pit shall fall into it."
01:20:10 - No.
01:20:13 "Wheresoever the carcass is,
01:20:22 That's very interesting.
01:20:30 What?
01:20:32 You do know everybody thinks
01:20:36 - Yes, well, why not?
01:20:51 What would you say if I was to tell you
01:20:56 Well, I'd say...
01:21:14 What's that?
01:21:17 I don't know.
01:21:20 - Do you always sing afterwards?
01:21:29 - It's very nice.
01:21:35 You're quite wonderful,
01:21:40 You make me feel wonderful.
01:21:56 Rescue services are
01:21:59 with bushfires now penetrating
01:22:02 There are long delays as city-bound
01:22:06 and motorists are advised to be patient.
01:22:16 In federal court Steve Myers'
01:22:19 Following revelations about his past,
01:22:33 Look who's here.
01:22:35 - Darling princess Ornatharicus.
01:22:42 No matter what happens today,
01:22:45 There's no need to go to Perth.
01:22:48 I will pay you back.
01:22:51 Where is Arthur?
01:22:54 I thought what they did to you
01:22:58 - They're pretty tough on him too.
01:23:03 - Is she nice?
01:23:10 What?
01:23:12 I'm proud of you, whatever happens.
01:23:18 Nothing could stop us now.
01:23:35 Is it enough, do you think, a moral victory?
01:23:38 What other kind is there?
01:23:43 - I call David Myer.
01:23:47 What? He can't do that.
01:23:50 - Yes, he can. But he'd better explain.
01:23:54 I brought an action against
01:23:58 - The defendant does not exist?
01:24:02 If God doesn't exist, they don't
01:24:05 The God of the 'Act of God'
01:24:09 Not one person in this courtroom has
01:24:14 It's a lie that they use to
01:24:19 the kind of people
01:24:27 There's something else.
01:24:31 If God exists,
01:24:35 I don't think he sits around
01:24:40 I don't think he causes
01:24:45 or dreams up ways
01:24:49 If there is a God, surely he is everywhere.
01:24:54 He's in the sea, he's in a lobster,
01:24:59 he's in a woman's thigh,
01:25:04 He's in the face.
01:25:12 How can I sue these things?
01:25:15 "All other things to the destruct should draw,
01:25:20 That's what I told you.
01:25:23 Maybe you were right. My boat was a tiny little
01:25:32 Losing it was nothing.
01:25:36 How can I sue God for an act
01:25:42 For an act of love.
01:25:46 - Pax vobiscum.
01:25:49 Mazel tov.
01:26:30 - It's a sign.
01:26:33 - A winged messenger.
01:27:02 I think, under the circumstances,
01:27:25 Mr. Myers did more than prove that
01:27:30 - A very strange thing happened today...
01:27:34 that even in this globalised world,
01:27:42 Two very strange things happened today...
01:27:46 Mr. Myers has established to my satisfaction
01:27:50 That an 'Act of God',
01:27:53 is oppressive and exploitative,
01:27:59 and almost certainly wrong in law.
01:28:03 He has withdrawn his case,
01:28:08 The position of the insurance
01:28:12 and in my view unlikely to survive
01:28:17 Your Honour,
01:28:19 with the greatest respect,
01:28:24 Yes. And they will have to
01:28:29 - Amor vincet omnie.
01:28:33 Court is adjourned.
01:28:55 Please tell the American people
01:28:58 I feel terrific, thank you very much.
01:29:04 What happens with your co-plaintiffs?
01:29:07 Mr. David Myers will be representing them.
01:29:09 - Will they be suing God?
01:29:14 The way is now open,
01:29:18 - Is the world a better place today?
01:29:24 Every right-minded person knows that
01:29:28 but now that it's over I'll say this:
01:29:30 It's a great victory for ordinary people,
01:29:35 - Did we win?
01:29:40 It's been a tumultuous couple of hours
01:29:43 where all the large insurance
01:29:46 There's panic at insurance offices
01:29:48 with thousands of customers demanding refunds.
01:29:55 - I suppose the best is to take the long view.
01:29:59 We survived, but I certainly
01:30:04 - I have a depression.
01:30:08 - Your grace, you got crucified.
01:30:12 Cal's suing? Good on you.
01:30:14 Against Monarch Alliance
01:30:17 Section 52 of the Trade Practices Act.
01:30:20 - God is our copyright.
01:30:24 We won't be needing you on this one, Gerry.
01:30:29 - God is love.
01:30:32 It's what happens when we
01:30:36 I'm against all these lawsuits.
01:30:39 - They're gonna sue you for billions.
01:30:47 We've got to get back to our
01:30:51 - We could help fund their case.
01:30:54 you want to win this case
01:30:59 That's easier said than done.
01:31:01 I saw an article which said
01:31:04 - A science magazine?
01:31:08 It's a question of faith. Either you
01:31:13 Pinch me. Tell me I'm dreaming.
01:31:57 How long is it going to take you
01:32:00 Not long.
01:32:01 Twenty, thirty, forty years.
01:32:06 You've just been offered $250.000
01:32:10 - No, I couldn't do that.
01:32:16 Actually, it's worse than that.
01:32:18 You've been offered $350.000 for
01:32:24 The full kissy-wissy, touchy-watchy?
01:32:27 - The steamy story.
01:32:32 - I can pay Les back.
01:32:35 $200.000 would buy a beautiful boat.
01:32:39 I always fancied sailing to Shanghai.
01:32:44 It's too late, it's ruined.
01:32:51 - There's pirates on the way.
01:32:54 Typhoons, malaria...
01:32:57 Arthur, how do you like
01:33:01 They eat dogs in Hanoi.