Mr. Brandt Quotes in A Serious Man (2009)

Clive's Father: Culture clash. Culture clash.

Larry Gopnik: With all respect, Mr. Park, I don't think it's that.

Clive's Father: Yes.

Larry Gopnik: No. It would be a culture clash if it were the custom in your land to bribe people for grades.

Clive's Father: Yes.

Larry Gopnik: So... you're saying it is the custom?

Clive's Father: No, this is a defamation. Grounds for lawsuit.

Larry Gopnik: Let me get this straight: you're threatening to sue me for defaming your son?

Clive's Father: Yes.

Larry Gopnik: But it would...

Mr. Brandt: Is this man bothering you?

Larry Gopnik: Is he bothering me? No. I, uh...

[Larry stares awkwardly at Brandt until he leaves]

Larry Gopnik: See... if it were defamation there would have to be someone I was defaming him to, or I... all right, I... let's keep it simple. I could pretend the money never appeared. That's not defaming anyone.

Clive's Father: Yes. And a passing grade.

Larry Gopnik: Passing grade.

Clive's Father: Yes.

Larry Gopnik: Or... you'll sue me.

Clive's Father: For taking money.

Larry Gopnik: So he *did* leave the money.

Clive's Father: This is defamation!

Larry Gopnik: It doesn't make sense. Either he left the money or he didn't.

Clive's Father: Please. Accept the mystery.

Larry Gopnik: You can't have it both ways!

Clive's Father: Why not?