New York, February 16,1959
Hurry! She collapsed 10 minutes ago.
The ambulance is on its way.
Saint Theresa, dear God, do not forsake me...
...give me strength. I want to live. Restore me to life.
Paris, Belleville, 1918
Why are you crying? -Get the hell out of here, scum!
I'm so lonely and miserable. Life is so hard.
But it's all I know. What more can I say?
What are you doing here?
Why are you crying? Are you on your own?
Where's your mother?
Wherever I go, in chains,
There is nothing but pain. Nothing to accomplish.
My life is so hard. I've known nothing else,
I'm all alone and miserable.
A fine mother YOU are! Hanging's too good for you!
I have to live too. I'm a singer! -She should be looking after your daughter!
I look after her very well!
Louis, I can no longer wait here for you. Belleville is horrible.
My agent says that someone with my talent should go to Constantinople...
...just like Frehel the singer...
Good news for our acrobat?
Sure, and Clemenceau sends his regards.
I left Edith with my mother.
She'll take care of her till I'm on my feet again.
Louis, I can't wait for you any longer.
Anetta.
Anybody home?
Edith?
Louis?
I'm taking her with me.
Bernay, Normandy, 1918
And who's this?
Your granddaughter: Edith.
That's a peculiar name.
She's a sickly looking child.
Come with me.
What are you doing here?
What a angel! What's your name?
Back to work, Titine! -There's someone in the toilet upstairs.
What lovely blue eyes you have.
I'm listening...
I have to be getting back.
I'll be demobbed soon. Then I can work as an acrobat again.
I'll return for my little angel. -Not now!
I'm finished, Mama Louise. -Watch the door.
Where's her mother?
No idea.
Would you want her to stay here?
People will talk. -People always talk.
Isn't she going with us to Mass?
We'll be late for Mass. -The world doesn't revolve around her.
It appears we have a baby. -May we see her?
It's a little girl. Would she like some bread? -All right, everybody leave, please.
Come on, ask her if she'll sing for us.
A shame that communists aren't allowed on the stage.
One night I went swimming in my birthday suit,
Nobody could see me, Only the night itself.
Until the moon suddenly appeared, I felt like saying: shine on me.
Then I heard close by
A heartfelt cry.
A man stood on a rock, Low enough to see me.
The man cried "Oh!"
And from the water, I cried "oh" back.
He saw me naked,
Nothing to cover me, I blushed the whole night long.
He saw me naked, Completely naked.
Out of respect for the poor man, I covered up my face.
But now I know that by doing so
I ended up showing my charms below.
He saw me naked.
Titine! Open the door. That's enough now.
What's the matter? - She has Edith with her.
Open up I say! -Whatever is the matter?
Nothing. Get a move on. The customers will be here any minute.
Open the door! Otherwise I'll... -I don't want to work.
I don't want to work. -Oh, you don't want to work?
What do you think this is, a hotel? -Edith is staying here with me tonight.
That's what YOU think.
It's me. Open this door. The soldier is here.
I couldn't care less. That liar with his lies and alibis.
Stop your nonsense and get yourself out here. Otherwise it's the street for you.
I'm tired of you playing the drama queen!
I don't want any nonsense.
New York, May 8, 1959
Doug!
What, are you jealous?
I'll send the Billie Holiday records to the hotel.
Thank you, Loulou. Billie and I were born the same year. Is that not something?
I've brought my drawings.
You want to see them now, or later?
Later. First I have to sing that shmuck's song.
That's before your time... -What?
Nothing.
I'm ready.
That's Jeanne!
What's the matter?
Blood everywhere... -Tell me about it!
He wanted to play doctors and patients, with my instruments.
The filthy swine!
Titine!
We'll have to tell Madame. -She'll kill me. It hurts!
I can't see anything.
Well, doctor? -It's not good I'm afraid.
It's her cornea.
Is she blind?
It's an infection.
Patience. This sort of thing can last for months.
Take this to the pharmacist.
My thanks.
Whose child is she?
Nobody's.
Lisieux, Normandy
Theresa, I never ask anything of you. But I'm asking you to listen to little Edith.
Please, Edith. Say it. She's listening.
Theresa, I don't want to be blind. I want to see.
She bumps into everything. Go on.
I want to learn how to read, and to run like I used to. I don't want to be blind.
Saint Theresa, please ask baby Jesus to take care of Edith.
Go on.
Thank you, Saint Theresa, Jesus. -Thank you.
She can see...
She can see!
Titine, get up!
What is it? -He's back. He's come for Edith.
Get dressed.
They can't do this to me!
How can you keep on doing this?
She'll see a lot of the world.
Go!
Edith!
Titine!
Don't take my little girl away.
Let her go!
Enough!
She's crazy!
Stop or I'll throw you out!
You've no right!
Don't do this to me! -Go!
It's over! I'm ending it all.
Here we are at Orly airport. The passengers are disembarking...
...I see Edith Piaf! With a young man in tow.
What have you brought back from America? -An American.
What's his name?
Edith, for God's sake!
Just as in her song, she's carried 'by the crowd.'.
She's stepping into her amazing black-and-white automobile.
She looks exhausted, but she's dazzling all the same.
Quiet, please! I wish to propose a toast ...
You're drunk!
You're one to talk!
Help the invalid.
Look out, accordion player, or I'll get you.
Perfect timing.
Get the manager. I demand champagne on the house.
I'm Edith Piaf, and I've made a mess of things.
Kiss one another! Even those who don't like each other! Kiss me, Claude.
.
Who's that slapper? -No idea.
The spicy beef tartare? -Where's your handsome friend?
Don't embarrass her... -Cool it. Who asked you?
Miss?
Miss Piaf, what an honour! What can I do for you?
A lot. I'd like a present. -But of course.
I wanted champagne, but I prefer a ring...
...a large ring studded with diamonds.
Don't bother. We'll have the champagne.
Here's to the love I feel for all of you...
...for which I stand. Help me up, someone.
A toast to Marguerite.
My composer and most loyal friend in the business.
Oh,don't blush so.You're making us weep.
What about a photograph? -I don't think so.
Bubbles and alcohol, perfect! That's Claude's doing.
You're such a bore, Loulou. We've just returned to Paris, and we're having fun.
Stop playing the unhappy lover.
I'm waiting for someone.
Don't forget you've responsibilities. There's more than you.
Remember the first night in Gerney 's?
I looked like a bag lady. You thought I was a princess.
You WERE a princess. My princess!
To Marguerite.
To all those who wished to see me come a cropper.
They think I don't know! Cheers!
What's the matter, Louis? -He's in bad form.
Go away. We're busy.
You're not here as decoration. Get to work.
To work, you. This is no child's play.
You'll earn your keep. Enough!
Stupid child! You're in everyone's way!
Go to the trailer. See to the meal.
Ladies and gentlemen, let's hear it for Louis, the Human Snake!
What a little angel.
How old is she? -Ten.
No mother?
What do you mean?
You be so lonely.
What about a calvados in your trailer?
Let's go.
Do you know who I am?
I'm Theresa.
Are your eyes all right, sweetheart?
Yes.
You're so adorable. Whom do wish to pray for?
I want to pray for Titine.
Very well. I shall look after you.
Never forget that.
Whenever you feel lonely, remember I'm always here.
Right, that's it! You were supposed to change that wheel.
We're all in the same rotten boat!
I don't care! -No? Then screw you!
You shouldn't let that kind of thing get you down!
I can't stand Caroli!
You're drunk. -I'm going solo.
Fat chance of that! There aren't that many circuses.
I'll manage.
Just when I was getting used to you. -You'll do okay without me!
Saint Theresa, please make him change his mind. I don't want to leave the circus.
He's completely messed up.
Is the girl part of the act?
Hold on. Do something.
Before they go, do something.
Come on, do something.
Bravo!
That's my daughter!
Grasse. October 1963
I'm sick of this carrot juice. -You'll drink it as long as I'm nursing you.
I like it dark. -The sun will do you good.
It's hard I know, but you need a lot of rest...
...and patience.
Your husband phoned today... -No point.
What bothers me is that I exaggerated.
The past 3 years were awful.
You're a performer.
Simone?
I suppose I'll never sing again?
Paris, Montmartre. October 1935
What's up with you?
I'm hungry.
First we sing, then we eat.
Sing alone and you're a beggar. When you're a duo it's a show.
I want to sing here.
Hey, you!
No street singing allowed.
Is that a fact?
How old are you? -Twenty.
What's that?
She's had hardly anything to drink. -Come here.
Do you know 'Du Gris'?
Oh, sir... -Shut up!
If you sing that,I'll let you go. That's my beat.I'll look the other way.
Next week it's our 21st. Sisters for 5 years.
What do you prefer, working with me or in the factory?
I'd rather cut my own throat. How about you?
What do you mean?
Killing yourself in your little milk shop? -Shut up! Not while we're eating.
Anetta, no moaning, okay?
Look, it's your drunken mother.
Edith?
Do you have any change?
That's all? -I haven't much money.
Give me some bank notes. -I don't have any.
I'm your mother. -Go to hell!
Shall I sing a song? -Throw her out!
I'm a performer. What about you?
You'll find out!
What'll I find out? -When you're lying in the gutter.
Keep it down or leave! -When you're in need...
Fuck off!
...don't depend on your daughter giving you a bite to eat.
That's enough. -I'm off. Have the rest if you want.
You're no singer, you slut! -Leave her alone or you'll answer to me.
Oh, don't bother with that lot!
Fuck you!
Go and prostitute yourself on the street!
While you still can!
Thanks very much.
You'll ruin your voice doing that. -I have to eat.
Of course you do.
I'm Louis Leplée.
Here's my card. Come round to Gerney's, tomorrow at two.
Are you a singer? -No, but I have other talents.
Bring your music with you, whatever you intend singing.
What if I don't come?
That's up to you, my girl.
This is all you have to show for a whole day? This is how you reward my belief in you?
I've put a little aside for my father. He's sick and he's broke.
I'm not a social worker. -No really. He's sick.
If I toss you out on the street maybe you'll get it.
Let her go!
Never! I'd rather starve than be a whore.
If you die, it's your own fault! -Shut up!
I want MORE, is that clear?
Or you spread your legs, just like the rest.
You first.
Albert, I'm sorry...
Please stay! -Leave the bastard.
Give her something to drink.
Are you coming to the Chinese? -Who else is going?
The two Italians.
Plenty of snuff and tobacco. And the warmth of another body...
Because we did it once, doesn't mean I wish to do it again.
Don't start. -Shall I explain?
I care not a jot for you, and you want to know why?
No, I'm too stupid? Because I'm an artist.
I'm going to the top. I know it. I've always known it!
It's the Little Flower...
...Saint Theresa, I foresee great things.
Seen her clothes? She looks ill.
Where did he find her?
She's unbelievable.
Champagne.
The boss is crazy about her. -What a voice!
She's really something, Louis. -Spare me your jealousy, Josette.
What's your name again? -Edith Giovanna Gassion.
Hmm, not very impressive. -I have other names:
Huguette Helias, Tania...
...Denise Jay.
You've had a manicure! -That wasn't the question.
You're just like a bird. -You think so?
Really?
Is 'Little Bird' taken? -Yes, it's taken.
A sparrow...
Would you call a sparrow 'piaf'? Is that how you say it?
The Little Sparrow. -Brilliant!
It's stupid. -What would YOU know?
The Little Sparrow. -Brilliant!
You'll need a suitable repertoire. Bruants 'Les Mômes de la Cloche'.
I know it. -If necessary practise it all night.
We'll start you on Friday.
Show's beginning.
Take care of your protégée. She's a slow starter.
I'm on my way.
Philippo, no more alcohol backstage.
What are you doing? -I'd no time to finish it.
I'm knitting the sleeve. -Now! We've a full house.
All the more reason! She can't go on like that!
Look, our star is dressing the newcomer.
That's fine. -Girls, let's go.
I have to throw up. -Not now. Hurry up.
A day or two ago, on my way home, Lady Luck led me...
...to the artist you'll see tonight.
Here she is, exactly as I first saw her, an unpolished jewel:
From the street to Gerny's: The Little Sparrow.
She's like a sister to me.
Did I lie? -She's extraordinary.
This is the great Jean Mermoz.
This is for you.
Thank you.
Come along, Edith.
You've won them over. And you'll continue doing just that...
...I'm introducing you to someone who can help your career along.
I'm Marguerite Monnot. I'm a pianist.
If you need music,I'll gladly supply it.
Thank you. -Come.
Edith, this is Mr. Jacques Canetti. Artistic director of Radio Cité.
Miss, I was under your spell. -Thank you.
Please, join us at our table. -I can't. I have to go.
What can be so important?
Thank you.
What's the matter?
Wonderful, wonderful...
Get out right now or I'll... -Hit him in the kisser!
I've waited an hour for you!
Go to hell, you bastard!
Stop it.
Miss, you're wonderful.
My hand's about to fall off. More bubbles.
Give me the bottle.
I said you should listen to me. Radio is a powerful medium, am I right, Coquatrix?
But don't underestimate the Music Hall. -Of course not.
I've something for you.
A song? -Of course.
Raymond! Mireille, fetch Raymond !
Somebody here for you.
That big guy wants to see you.
This is Raymond Asso. Writer, composer, poet.
I'll be right back.
I love your work.
I don't love your face.
I've seen you often.
I haven't seen you.
Midnight, everyone on their feet!
You're a big star. -Yes, I wear high heels.
If you wish... Call me. I'll be waiting.
Papa Leplée!
A toast to Papa Leplée, my saviour.
Grasse. October 1963
He was a very discreet man...
Were you here yesterday? -Yes, but I didn't see him.
So he was at home. -Perhaps. Too bad.
He was discreet, so lovely and attentive.
You bring bad luck!
It's her fault!
Are you the Little Sparrow?
Come with me, please. -Why?
This way.
Let me through.
I'm talking to you.
Have you ties with the underworld? -No.
Leave me alone.
And Henri Valette? And George, Johnny the Sailor and Albert? Never heard of them?
Those are friends of mine.They've nothing to do with this
Being an accessory is a criminal offence. -I'm innocent! I've done nothing.
I've lost everything. -Where were you last night?
I told you: partying...
Bastards, swine! This is disgusting!
We're not in the theatre now.
It seems you have a couple of nasty friends.
They're not like that. -Sure, and I'm a cretin.
Have you an explanation? -Not at this time.
It's a disgrace!
Go back to the gutter, slag! -Leave her alone!
She didn't do it! -Have you named names?
This is a funeral. Have a little respect!
Just one more question. -Vultures! Go away!
Out of the way! Get the hell out of here!
It's over. I'm dead. I've been dragged through the shit.
Forget it.
I haven't done anything! -I know that.
Open up!
What? -Simone Berteaut?
Yes.
Miss, please come with us.
Why?
Your mother has arranged with the court for you to be placed in a boarding school.
Immediately. Pack your things.
No! She's staying here. -This has nothing to do with you.
For the last time: go and pack.
You want to see me dead! That's it, isn't it?
Let me go! -She's staying here. Momone!
Edith, don't let them!
My things! I don't have any things! Do you hear that, you shit?
Momone, no!
Papa Leplée...
Oh, Papa Leplée...
You killed him. Where's the money?
What can you expect from a former whore?
Everybody out of the dressing room! Mamy, you stay.
I need a shot for the pain.
Get the American.
You can come in now.
A triumph. You were magnificent. -Doug?
I need fresh air. I'm going back with you to Chálons.
But that's 400 kilometres away.
You can go to hell! I'm sick of you all!
You're exhausted. It's a long journey.
No, no, always no! Drop dead!
Let's go back.
Turn around!
You've ruined it for me! -What's this...
The blood test is a catastrophe.
She has two broken ribs we're unable to set. This is going to take weeks.
I'd cancel all engagements.
It's tight enough. Please leave.
Doctor, give me an injection so I can sing.
My admiration knows no bounds.
That may be, but I have none.
Cancel the concert. You're risking your life.
What's life without risk?
What would you say to a new life? Change your surroundings.
My what? -Your surroundings.
Why didn't you call me sooner?
I was busy. I didn't know what you wanted of me.
I saw you sing. You have much to learn.
No one's ever said that before.
In three months' time you won't be that'girl'any more. Your bar days are over.
He had clear blue eyes That flashed like lightning
in a storm in the night
In-a-storm-in-the-night! Articulation!
Again!
He had clear blue eyes
Are those words or noises?
What do want of me? -Perfect diction!
I sing as I speak. -Badly.
You shout the words and they lose their meaning.
More slowly, Marguerite.
We've been at it six hours. Can someone open a window?
We'll be doing breathing shortly.
From the top.
He had clear blue eyes, that flashed like lightning. In a storm...
You're not paying attention! You're not creating.
You must become the woman in love.
Think as an actress.
He's making fun of me.
We're all tired. We'll take a break.
He makes me feel as if I can't sing.
Who do you think you are?
Don't be satisfied with half measures.
I've been singing since I was nine years old.
Take it easy. This is new and difficult.
You're interpreting something, understand? You must LIVE the song!
No one's ever had a problem with my diction before.
No one... like whom?
The riff-raff in Gerny's? Or on the street?
Do what I say or go back to the gutter.
Edith!
Here's to my girl who never forgets her vader.
To my little one!
Your mentor, is he rich?
Not a cent... He does it for the love of art.
For the love of your arse you mean!
Come on, little one, sing. -Sing for us!
That's the way to treat her.
I let her have her own way.
I was too good to her!
You're too stiff.
Like a bare-knuckle fighter. Performing is an art.
You have to grab the audience.
You have lovely hands. Use them.
Sing with them.
Again, Marguerite.
Move them.
The hands!
That's it.
I look stupid. -Continue.
Put this on.
That's not what people want. It's my voice they wish to hear.
How can you be so talented and at the same time so dense?
Open the door. -I have to throw up!
Is she drunk? -She's in panic.
The audience is waiting.
For weeks you've been pestering me for this gig.
For God's sake take the stage before the tear the place apart.
She's on her way.
Edith? Three minutes.
This isn't a bar, it's a theatre. What am I doing here?
Stage fright. It's a good sign.
Edith?
What?
This is it. This is what we worked hard for.
You can't back down now.
Open the door.
No, I can't do it.
Please, open the door.
On your feet.