- See that little number? - He's pathetic. Weak.
He has charm.
He's the Gaudens Labs heir.
Originally, it was the old lady who had the fortune,
but the father was a brilliant chemist.
At his death, young Paul, who was barely 18,
was mixed up in a scandal with the sons of some local notables.
You're a fine one to talk.
Seriously, they kidnapped some girls, one of whom was very young, nine or ten.
A bit too young.
Mommy managed to hush up the affair.
- How do you know all that? - I heard it from the horse's mouth.
My lawyer friend Gérard Briançon.
- You know him. - Every inch.
(laughter)
I adore you. He told me. Swore me to secrecy, of course.
Young Gaudens came out white as snow.
I don't know about you, but I find it pretty immoral.
I don't feel I can judge anyone.
(Gabrielle) You can open your eyes.
Not nervous?
About what?
You don't feel humiliated?
Not even ridiculous.
I'm happy with you.
I love you more than I've ever loved anyone.
- Want something to drink? - I don't feel like it.
You all right?
Not great. It's hard. The words aren't coming.
Use someone else's.
Obviously I do that anyway.
But seriously, these days writing bores me.
I don't know why. I need...
I don't know... I need some sort of change.
A change of women.
You really are a kid.
You have no idea.
Don't be so sure of that.
- Get dressed, we're going out. - It's past midnight.
Just get dressed. And wear a skirt.
I find you mysterious.
Mysterious?
My ass. A woman's only worth the desire she arouses. What are you drinking?
- A grenadine and lemon soda. - That takes the cake.
You were right to dump those damn flowers.
Good evening, all.
Alban.
I knew you'd be here.
It's great to see you.
I missed you last time.
I couldn't resist.
- How's Charles? - Charles?
Just fine. He's already back to work.
I haven't seen him in a while.
Hey, speak of the devil and you see...
(both) his horns.
Capucine,
meet Gabrielle, whom I've told you about.
Good evening, and welcome.
But we've already met, haven't we?
Yes.
Cecile, sweetheart, some Champagne.
- Nice place. - You haven't seen it all yet.
Let me introduce you to Alban, the owner.
Good evening.
I've seen your face before.
- You aren't the first to say that. - Or the last, I think.
She's not only gorgeous, but...
- She thinks. - (laughter)
Come along, angel.
Friends of his are friends of ours.
Is this her first time here?
It's her birthday tomorrow. This is a surprise.
Does she know?
It wouldn't be a surprise...
- And you enjoy it? - I enjoy it, and it turns me on.
Don't worry about her. She loves it.
Sure, and she adores you.
Sure. And I adore her, and life is beautiful.
I like it here.
Introduce me to your friends?
Finish your glass.
I have something to show you. Come on.
Happy birthday, angel.
Let's go home.
I'll take you to your place. It's more sensible.
What do you mean, sensible?
Angel,
I leave for London in the morning. I told you.
You said next week.
I mean, yes, it was supposed to be next week.
But Capucine called this afternoon.
There was a last minute change because Jonathan Coe had a conflict.
When will you be back?
Thursday or Friday.
It's 3am. I'll wake my poor mother.
No, you won't,
not if you go gently... as you do so well.
Have a good trip, my love.
Goodbye, Gabrielle, my angel.
Be happy without me.
And take care of yourself.
Come back quick.
(mother) You were so quiet, I knew it was you.
- You're not asleep? - I'm sleepwalking.
Happy birthday, darling. You're sweet to come home tonight.
He's off to London tomorrow.
- He'll be back soon? - In four or five days.
- Are you happy at least? - Mom, I'm not a kid anymore.
Don't walk me to the train. You know I hate goodbyes.
Can you do it today?
Yes.
Don't worry.
It's strange. Usually I'm the one leaving.
"To those who ask why I travel I usually reply:
"I know what I am running from...
But not what I'm looking for." Not very cheering. When are you back?
I can't tell you exactly. Next month...
Capucine is joining me in London.
I may go on to New York. It all depends on John.
I won't ask. You'll tell me as you go.
I can't live without you.
I open what I think is my door, and standing there is Woody Allen,
in front of a mirror, half-naked, in baggy boxer shorts,
beige-colored but oversized...
That must've been a shock.
I wouldn't say that.
Woody Allen's a shock, but in shorts, the shorts win.
I don't mean Woody Allen's not a genius.
- Very funny, but our time's up. - It's not so funny if our time's up.
Can't we keep talking? Can't we go on?
But I've no choice. Thank you for coming, it's been a pleasure.
- I'll finish some other time? - Come back when you like.
So ends Icing on the Cake. Hope you enjoyed it.
Tune in for next week's surprise...
- Isn't it Gad? - I can't say. It's a surprise.
Have a nice weekend. Roll the credits, please.
With Gad Elmaleh.
Thanks, Edouard.
Thanks for coming.
- See you soon. - Good luck.
- Was it OK? - It was great.
They're thrilled upstairs.
Good. Hand me my cell, please.
(woman) Hello. You have one new message. one new message.
Gabrielle. it's Mom. I wanted to ask you...
That was splendid, my lovely.
We have to talk. You know Pascal Lahmani from Canal Plus?
Yes.
- He wants to meet you. - I know.
I had a message, but I can't talk now.
I've got something important to do.
I'll call you later. Forgive me?
So long, Philippe.
Bitch.
Why'd he do that?
(indistinct chatter)
She just lies there.
She's like a zombie.
I don't know what to do. Any ideas?
No, but you can't leave her like that. Have you seen a doctor?
Mm-hm.
He says if she keeps it up, he'll hospitalize her.
What do you think she wants?
I think she wants to die.
It's my fault, Denis. I should've talked to him.
He's a smart man, you know.
You think I was jealous of her?
The poor 40-year-old single mother.
What's got into you? Huh?
Wasn't it you who told me that guilt is a poison?
Remember, when Mom was ill.
If he's smart, he'll understand the situation.
I'm sure he's not a bastard.
Then he must have reasons to act the way he did.
Yes... you're right.
He'd have left her in the end.
One thing I'm sure of is he loves her.
That's too subtle for me.
I'm lucky you could be here.
That's the nice thing about wanderers -
sometimes near, sometimes far.
(phone rings)
lt'll wake her!
Hello.
No, I'm sorry, she's sleeping.
No, she didn't eat this morning. I don't know.
I can call you back.
Yes, I promise.
Goodbye.
I don't know what to make of that one, either.
- The Gaudens boy. - Yes.
Everyone calls him that. He has a first name. Paul.
He only seems to exist through what his parents did.
That about sums it up, doesn't it?
You know, my darling little sister, life isn't easy for most people.
For Paul Gaudens, it's easy because his father was a chemical genius?
Explain that to me.
Let's say certain important things are indeed easier for him.
Anyway, he calls twice a day, every day.
He's not afraid of waking her up.
What's he want?
He says he loves her,
he wants to marry her, to see her, to take her far away from here.
He says he can save her.
You never know. Think of Sleeping Beauty.
The rich young prince,
he arrives,
kisses her, and her taste for life returns.
It beats sitting here doing nothing.
That's true.
Hello, Paul?
This is Marie Snow, Gabrielle's mother.
Still want to come see her?
Yes. Tomorrow afternoon.
Fifth floor. Yes, thank you.
See you tomorrow, Paul. Goodbye.
Inshallah.
(bell rings)
- I was worried. - Be glad. I spent your money.
- You went shopping? - Mm-hm.
It gave you a nice color.
- Buy you a drink? - Yes.
- Want a hand? - Yes, thank you.
- What do you want? - Same as you.
(Gabrielle orders drinks in Spanish)
For you.
Oh, thank you.
To thank you for watching over me.
That's sweet.
But, Gabrielle... you don't understand.
You're the angel. I love you. I want to...
Paul, please, don't start.
Let's stay friends. It's better that way.
Yes. Better for who?
I've played the clown all week. I know who's on your mind.
I've decided to forget him. Give me some time, please.
What's he got that I don't?
I'm here. He ran out on you like a coward!
Look at me when I speak to you!
- Please don't shout. - I'll shout if I like.
Think you're some princess who can play with me like a kid?
Actually, you're just like him. You make a fine pair.
You make me sick.
- (Paul) Who is it? - It's me. Open up, please.
What do you want? Bored on your own?
What's going on?
I'm packing.
You're leaving me alone?
Cut it out. Isn't it what you want?
You been drinking?
That what it takes to knock on my door? You're as gutless as he is.
- Stop thinking about him! - And stop telling me what to do.
I get the picture. I'm not a total retard.
You're the only woman I've ever wanted.
But I understand you. I'm not the man for you.
So OK, the show's over.
Curtain.
That day I met you in the bookstore, I thought that...
Do you realize it's been nearly a year?
I'm tired now. I want you to leave me alone.
Don't leave me. I want to stay with you.
Right. And as soon as we get back, you'll disappear again.
I'm no sucker.
I'm the one who doesn't want you now. I never want to see you again.
Know what? It's your tough luck.
I want to stay with you.
Paul, if you'll have me, I'll marry you. But let's get out of here.
Repeat what you just said.
If you'll have me, I'll marry you.
We haven't even slept together. You saying that to make me jealous?
I think you can make me happy. Am I wrong?
Tell me I'm not wrong.
Yes, but... No.
My love, if it's true... I'll be the happiest man on earth.
Thank you.
I've got to call Mother. I'm calling her.
Hello, Mother? Yes, it's me.
She said yes.
(chuckles)
- (TV) Catherine. - Nicolas.
- What news of our local celebrities? - Nice transition. Nicolas.
Speaking of drugs.
the press has announced the engagement "Tradition! Tradition!"
of Paul Gaudens. the Gaudens Labs heir and avid night-clubber.
to the very lovely Gabrielle Snow.
the former TVL weathergirl
and now emcee of the station's "Icing on the Cake."
- It helps to have a fiancé with pull. - Or a lover.
Those vipers.
She can't marry that nutcase.
(Dona) What'd you say?
You always talk when my back's turned.
I was asking, any mail?
I'll check.
Capucine? It's Charles.
Am I bothering you?
Listen, I need your sleuthing talents.
- Pleased with your gift, pussycat? - Pussycat?
- Would you prefer "my kitten"? - Paul, please.
I have to go. I have an appointment for my gown.
- I'll come along. - Out of the question!
I want to ride in her little car.
Who's ever heard of the future groom attending a wedding-gown fitting?
That just isn't done.
I don't like her going alone.
I can go with her, if you like.
Don't worry. I'm meeting my mother there.
You must have other things to do.
That's for sure. I don't know if I'm coming or going.
You announced this wedding too fast. The Beauregards are in Monte Carlo.
- When do you see Monsignor Godeau? - Monsignor who?
Paul, explain.
Monsignor Godeau. He's officiating at our wedding.
We have to go see him about preparations.
What preparations?
My God, you'd think she'd never set foot in a church.
Mother.
I'm off.
Paul, darling, do remind your mother my name is Gabrielle. Kisses.
Mother.
(mother) Paul, my dear boy,
you're making a terrible mistake.
(Paul) Certainly not the last one.
How do I look?
How can I put it? Different?
Sorry, but it's hot in here. I'm going out for a cig.
- Sure. Go ahead. - (knock on door)
Come in.
What a surprise.
I had to see you.
I was going out anyway.
Would you mind leaving them alone?
Not at all. I'm done. All that's left to do is the veil. Thank you.
- As Mom said, what a surprise. - Oh, please...
How do I look?
You really going to marry that guy?
Funny how nobody's happy about this wedding.
You should see his mother. She hates me.
Do you realize he's completely unstable?
Why?
And you think you're the picture of stability?
You're a bastard, Charles, a real bastard,
Saint-Denis or no Saint-Denis.
I found out your real name's Charles Denis.
You didn't stick just any handle on it, you shit.
Let's forget everything and start again.
Yeah, right. The same old stuff.
Steamy afternoons in your flat. Or whenever it suited you.
And those twisted games among friends.
How'd you put it? To see if I was really liberated.
That how you want to start over?
Is that how you love me?
In any case, you don't love me anymore.
I don't love you anymore?
Listen, you great judge of character.
I'll never love another man but you.
Ever.
Yes, I love you.
At this moment, I love you, Charles.
But I've grown up, thanks to you.
"What doesn't kill us makes us stronger." Who said that?
Maybe when you're married...
Things will be more balanced. You've got some nerve.
At least I still make you laugh.
You're no good as a martyr.
Look, it's simple...
Leave your wife, and I swear I won't marry Paul Gaudens.
But she's always been good to me.
I don't doubt it. Now please go.
- Don't forget me. - Get out.
(minister) Paul André Claude Gaudens,
do you take Gabrielle Aurore Snow to be your wife
and promise to love her, for better or for worse?
- (Paul) I do. - (minister) Gabrielle Aurore Snow,
do you take Paul André Claude Gaudens to be your husband
and promise to love him, for better or for worse?
(Gabrielle) I do.
(minister) I now pronounce you man and wife.
(bell clangs)
What if we came here every year?
If you like.
Are you still thinking about him?
- About who? - Gabrielle...
- Gabrielle, forgive me. - Of course I forgive you.
Who taught you to do that? Tell me who.
No, don't tell me. I don't want to know.
You know because I told you.
And if you know, you don't need to ask.
- I haven't kept anything from you. - Shut up.
(Paul) How many times did he take you? Once, twice, ten times?
How many guys screwed you while he watched? Three, four, ten, a hundred?
237. Stop it, Paul, you're pathetic.
(Paul laughs)
Gabrielle, I just ask one thing...
for you to tell me the truth.
In front of how many of his friends did Charles watch you get fucked?
- You wouldn't understand. - I don't doubt it. No, I can't understand.
How could you let yourself be treated...
Say it. It's only a word. It's not the truth.
The truth.
The truth is that your guy couldn't get it up otherwise.
You make me sick.
If I told you all that, without hiding anything,
it's because I thought I could trust you.
So you'd know everything about me.
He's got nothing to do with it. It's all over between us.
- Just help me forget. - If you'd really forgotten him...
you wouldn't need my help.
Oh, Lord.
- What's he got to do with it? - You wouldn't understand.
Then we're even.
You still love him, think about him all the time.
I can't bear the thought you slept with that guy. I can't bear it.
Don't! I don't want your pity!
Poor Paul, why'd you marry me?
Why did I marry you, poor Paul? For your ass, my lovely.
Despite all your expert teachers, despite all you learned,
you're no better than the rest of them.
You don't know what I'm capable of.
- Are you afraid? - Yes, I'm afraid. You scare me.
(click)
- It was a good concert. - I'm not mad about Mozart.
Now, now.
Sure, there are some nice things.
I'm so sorry that I couldn't make it.
You have so much to do, Mother.
Speaking of Mozart, have you read the latest Saint-Denis?
It's had rave reviews.
We bought it, but haven't read it yet. I loved his last one.
What was it called already?
Penelope's Absence.
True, he does write well.
My wife thinks so, too.
I don't know who thought to invite him to the Association gala,
but it will be a great help.
They say that Muriel Robin and Marc Lavoine will perform.
To be confirmed, my dear.
Mm. Dear friend, your brandy is absolutely divine.
Gabrielle,
this is the perfect opportunity to wear the dress I bought you.
- If you wish. - It's what I want.
(man starts speech inside building)
It is one of the joys of my office
to extend my warmest thanks to our friend,
Edouard de Montois, president of the Association.
I want to thank him for his devotion,
his profound humanism,
a humanism recognized by many other humanists
and not the least of them.
Some will be here with us tonight,
and among those who enrich us with their talent as well,
I have the pleasure of welcoming Charles Saint-Denis,
who's honored us with his presence and who will soon say a few words.
Bravo.
I warmly thank the committee members,
who work so tirelessly, as a little bird has told me.
First and foremost, our founder and president, Geneviéve Gaudens,
Monsignor Godeau, Colonel Athanazian and his devoted wife Flore,
Arthur Bonnait, president of the Lyon Butcher's Syndicate,
Dr. Spartcule, and many others who know who they are.
Now I give the floor to our president Edouard de Montois.
Those who know me know that my speeches
are the most painful to sit through...
You're late. You might have made an effort.
- Gabrielle wasn't feeling well. - You could have come without her.
- It wouldn't have been as much fun. - I don't see why not.
I assure you.
(de Montois) A round of applause for this embodiment of generosity and humanity.
- (applause) - Geneviéve, if you wouldn't mind.
Thank you.
I'm not used to being in the spotlight.
Thank you all for being here tonight.
Thanks to you, we've been able to work miracles again this year.
My heart goes out to all those to whom we bring a little bit of warmth and comfort
in these troubled times.
But I'd like to give the floor to a man we all admire
and who can express things better than I can.
I'd like to call on Charles Saint-Denis,
who has agreed to say a few words.
Please give him a fitting welcome for his talent and generosity.
Dear Geneviéve, the honor is all mine, and it's you who deserves all the honors.
I'm nevertheless delighted to be...
(gunshot)
I, Paul Gaudens... I killed the beast.
I killed the monster who corrupted my wife.
- (man) She'll never agree. - (Geneviéve) I won't leave her a choice.
Your father used to defend our interests.
My husband held him in high esteem.
You're the third lawyer on this case. Time is of the essence.
The trial is coming up.
I hope I'm right in trusting you.
What can I say, madam? This case fascinates me.
I have determination and pride. I dislike losing.
Fortunately, I don't lose often.
But we can't hope for better than a reduced sentence
and confinement in conditions favorable to your son.
That's not what I was thinking about.
Your father fully deserved my husband's affection.
- How will you proceed? - I must see her quickly.
Careful. She's depraved to the bone.
I know the human soul, madam. I won't be fooled.
You haven't mentioned fees.
I'm better mannered than that, madam, but I'm sure we can work something out.
Speaking of money, is there a marriage contract between your son and his wife?
Separation of property. Only normal, she's penniless.
I worked hard to persuade Paul.
- Why? Could she... - Don't worry about that.
We'll come to it later. Where can I find her?
Since the incident, she spends most of her time at her mother's,
who runs a little bookshop.
We don't care to have her around.
But officially, she still lives here, of course.
Now that the press has started to leave us alone, I've allowed her to...
I'll phone her later.
I need to review the case. I'll keep you informed.
Do you think we can avoid a scandal? I mean...
That all depends whom it sullies.
I'm glad we understand each other, counselor.
When can I see my son again?
Since his transfer, your predecessors never even obtained visiting rights.
I'll see to it this evening, madam.
Brr.
(knock on door)
Mm...
Did you sleep well?
I wasn't sleeping.
The Gaudens attorney called.
Another one, a Mr. Lorbach.
He left a number to call. It's urgent.
I know what they want.
They want me to testify against Charles.
They want me to tell them...
To tell them what you didn't dare tell me.
I loved him so much.
- It wasn't sick. Do you understand? - Of course I do.
I won't taint his memory. It's vile to ask me to do that.
And his wife... Imagine the scandal.
There's no avoiding it. Leave that to the Gaudens.
Here, something else to think about... a letter from your uncle.
He'll be in the area next month.
If only he could make all this vanish.
GAUDENS TRIAL BEGINS ON MONDAY How can they write such things?
We can't allow it.
There's not much we can do.
We have very little room to maneuver.
If Gabrielle doesn't testify...
She's late.
- (Eléonore) She won't come. - Yes, she will.
I could tell from her tone of voice. But we must persuade her.
- I told you I'd handle that. - (Eléonore) What can she say?
(Geneviéve) Things I don't want reaching your ears.
Here she is.
- Hello, Daniel. - Hello, Mrs. Gaudens.
They're in the study.
(knock on door)
Yes. Come in.
- Hello. - Hello, madam.
Eléonore, Joséphine, leave us.
Thank you for responding so promptly. Time is of the essence.
Before Mrs. Gaudens speaks to you,
I'd like to remind you of your interests here.
I spoke to Paul yesterday. He loves you sincerely and devotedly.
In his mind, it was for you that he went so far, but he holds no grudge.
He'll see to your needs for the rest of your life.
Your in-laws intend to be very generous toward you.
That's something you mustn't lose sight of.
I'll be in the sitting room if you need me.
I hope I can count on you, Gabrielle.
I'm in total despair.
I fear your coldness toward my son.
Hence the financial offer?
Only you can save my son.
Every day, I curse the heavens that Paul ever met you.
It's a torment knowing my son's fate is in your hands, but...
This is so difficult.
There is something you should know before you make your decision.
I had another child before Paul.
Thibault.
Another son.
They were ten months apart.
They were inseparable.
They were like twins.
One evening...
Paul was three, Thibault almost four...
We never knew what really happened. Paul was still so young.
They were playing together in the bathtub.
I was next door in my room
getting dressed for a dinner party we were giving here.
It was an important business dinner for my husband.
I could hear the boys laughing since I'd left the door ajar.
They were laughing.
Thibault was an extraordinary little boy.
Already very gifted.
Suddenly, I couldn't hear anything.
And then Paul called me, still laughing.
When I went into the bathroom, Thibault's head was underwater.
Imagine what must have gone on in Paul's mind,
whatever he may have done,
the burden he's had to bear all these years.
It's not his fault.
He loved his brother.
He was so adorable.
After that...
After that, things were never the same,
even after the girls were born.
Gabrielle, I know...
Things aren't simple, are they?
What are you going to do, Gabrielle?
I don't know.
Gabrielle.
How do you feel?
I don't feel anything anymore.
I'm completely drained, empty.
I loved him so much.
I've just come from Gérard Briançon's office.
Rumor has it they want you to testify against Charles.
It's true.
Believe me, I don't usually try to interfere in people's lives,
but I wanted to know...
If you had anything to fear?
You little girl.
No, it's not for me, or for Charles' reputation.
Actually, I'm not sure why I wanted to see you.
You want to know whose side I'm on?
Be on your own side.
Maybe that's what I wanted to say.
Don't listen to anyone.
I think...
I think I'll tell the truth.
"The whole truth and nothing but the truth."
lt'll only be your own truth.
It's the only one I know.
I hope they'll understand.
There's no doubt that Gabrielle Gaudens' testimony
sheds new light on this case
and explains. if not justifies. Paul Gaudens' act.
These rather sickening revelations are surprising. coming from an ex-colleague
reputed to be pure as the driven "Snow."
Gaudens Verdict Due Today Mitigating Circumstances Expected
As expected. the jury found mitigating circumstances.
Paul Gaudens was sentenced to seven years in a special institution.
Let's hear the reaction of Stéphane Lorbach. Paul Gaudens' defense attorney.
The verdict satisfies us.
It meets the twofold requirement of justice and humanity that is our constant concern.
Gaudens, your wife is in the visiting room.
I don't want to see her anymore.
You've come for your money?
I was at the prison. Paul won't see me.
It's one of his few remaining liberties. Surprised?
I testified. His sentence was reduced. It's a strange show of thanks.
You only told the truth.
It's time to grow up, child.
You'll get a letter from Paul tomorrow asking for a divorce.
Paul is under guardianship until further notice.
Believe me, you're not about to get a cent out of us.
You're dismissed.
I see.
Forgive me, but I'm keeping the car. I need it.
(Gabrielle) Denis!
I had trouble finding you.
I move around a lot, but I left your mom my play dates.
How's my favorite niece?
Not great, as you can imagine.
- Would you like to visit my palace? - Mm-hm.
Yes? Come on.
Thank you.
Why the look? She's my niece.
I never think, Mr. Merlin.
I know, Mrs. Bonnet.
Want something to drink? A cup of tea?
I hate tea.
Then I have just what we need upstairs.
Mom said you wanted to see me.
I always want to see you, but to tell you the truth...
I have an offer to make you.
Dishonest?
Naturally.
(Denis) Ladies and gentlemen, for my next number,
I must ask you to respect total silence,
so as not to disturb in any way the concentration it requires to accomplish.
Indeed,
this saw blade makes 6,500 revolutions per minute.
The risk is considerable and absolute.
So I'd like to pay tribute to the courage of my charming assistant Gabrielle.
Please give her a big hand. Gabrielle.
(applause)
(saw blade rings out)
(saw blade whirs)
(cutting stops)
(applause)
Subtitles by LeapinLar