They're/They've a regular gang

KLPNO

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Oct 19, 2007
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Hello everyone,

In the 1964 movie Mission to Venice Michael in one scene tells his friend Giuseppe to follow two men.

A little later Michael asks Giuseppe (at 40.29), "Did you follow the one in the white suit?” and he answers, “Yes, yes, but it was a real expedition.” In a few moments he adds, “They're a regular gang. They live in a palace, a real fortress.”

What does Giuseppe say at 40.39: They're a regular gang or They've a regular gang?

Thank you.

 

probus

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Jan 7, 2011
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While it certainly sounds like "they've" it's very likely "they're" because "they've" would be nonsensical. I suspect the confusion or difficulty springs from the actor's attempt to mimic the accent of an Italian speaking English.
 
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