Hurry, girls!
- OK, Pamela? - There's always one who's late.
I want you on the scales tomorrow!
It was wonderful last night, Léa.
10 minutes?
FAMILY HERO
Keep those arms supple. You're like a bunch of hat stands.
Good evening! Ladies and gentlemen,
I'd like you now
to put your hands together for...
Léa O'Connor!
Forget it, she's trouble. Sticks out a mile.
I like a little trouble!
You saw my act?
You didn't?
Shame.
I changed the Performing Tomato. It works fine. They loved it.
That's good. Keep moving forward.
If you stop swimming, it's like a shark, you die.
Here... Nino's new number and e-mail.
You gave me it last week.
Did you call him?
When I call, he chokes like he's stifling.
Call when you're ready.
I'm going back down. I promised Léa I'd catch her show.
She insisted.
I'll be right down.
I'm tired, Nicky.
Will you lock up?
I lock up every night.
See you tomorrow, then?
- You need the car? - No, you take it.
I feel like walking.
The Blue Parrot
It's hard enough when you're in love, but in mid-divorce, it's crazy!
I'm in Kaliningrad next week or I lose the child!
Listen to you.
Hi, how are you? You talk like it's feature of the month.
"The Battle To Adopt: Marianne Shows You How!"
You'll regret that.
- 6 months ago, we'd shelved it. - I hadn't.
Stephanie...
Cancel my ad meeting, book a table at Shogun, get me a coffee and... Hello.
I said I wanted a llama, there!
Will you sign the form or not?
What's the big deal? Why ruin this for me?
It's impossible. I can't do it to Vero.
She got exams coming up? Poor little cupcake!
No, she's pregnant.
Vero's pregnant.
With my baby.
We didn't split because you're sterile. We fell out of love.
Don't patronize me!
Hi, how...
- Your father... - Not now.
It sounds important.
What do you want?
Your godfather's dead.
- Don't move. Keep your eye open. - Go easy.
- All done. - That stuff stings!
- Sissy! The other one now. - I'm late!
Come back, we haven't finished. You're nuts!
Your eyes gleam. It looks great. I love it.
Answer that!
I'm not taking calls.
Hi, this is Nino. Please leave a message.
Gabrielle...
I mean, your godmother... is dead.
Who's that?
My father.
Tomorrow, lots more tricks
lots more magic on...
The Rabbit In The Hat
Bottoms Up
Wait here for me. It's better that way.
You get any sleep?
You're alone?
Antoine's in the car. He thought that would be better.
What about the children?
I have a little time yet.
Is he here?
You want to see him?
How did you dress him?
My Little Folly.
Nino?
It's me...
Marianne.
- How about a kiss? - Yes, of course.
Just got in from Paris?
On flight... We were on the same...
I saw you on the plane but I wasn't sure it was you.
- You've lost so much weight. - 14 kilos.
Nicky wanted to come
but the undertakers were running late.
- Hi, honey! - Hi, mom.
- Nino... - Hello, Simone.
I can't believe seeing you both together.
Gabriel...
I didn't know you but your loved ones
have told me what a rich, versatile, generous character
you embodied.
Queen of the night, King of the wig,
you were a father to many...
Aged 8 years old,
Gabriel trekked alone across Occupied France
before he eventually found refuge here in Nice
with Madeleine, a kind-hearted woman.
So began his greatest adventure...
The Blue Parrot!
When you're 70, you don't go skinny-dipping in mid-March.
No way. You just don't!
Not now, Marianne.
Was the rabbi your idea?
Somebody had to say a few words. I wasn't going to call a monk.
Priest, don't you mean?
- Gabriel wanted a rabbi. - He told you that?
- What about your mother? - What about her?
- Didn't you tell her? - Isn't that your job?
Why should I call her?
Gabriel dies and all that matters is a 23-year-old grudge!
How's my little rose?
Please!
Your husband?
- Gee, he isn't here. - Nicky...
Could I have a?
I always carry it just in case. I'm the custodian.
With Simone, if you don't mind.
Is that OK? Can you take the picture?
Thanks.
When I was a kid, I never missed your show.
"Lots more tricks, lots more magic on the Rabbit In The Hat!"
One more to be sure?
I did all your tricks. I was good.
Join them, nice family picture.
At least they're not in costume!
- Can I have an... - Of course.
- What's your name? - Christian.
Then it just stopped. Why'd they ax the show?
Politics.
- What time's your flight? - 6:10. I have an important dinner.
We're due at the attorney's tomorrow. The three of us and Simone.
- That'll be tricky. - No way! We're going to press.
I have meetings. Why didn't you say?
Simone was... Didn't you tell them?
You can't not be there. It's for Gabriel's will.
Léa! Wait!
Make sure you're there, children. We never get a chance to be together.
I've nothing to wear. Where do we sleep?
In your rooms at Gabriel's. I made up the beds.
Mr. Stern's grave, please?
- They just left. - I know.
Right down the end.
42 years. If the club shuts down, I shut down.
I'll go join Gabriel.
The club's my whole life. Just like Pamela...
When she got too old for the Crazy,
she came running back to us.
Nino, can you give me a hand, please?
Syrah and grenache grown on limestone. Sulfur-free,
so no headaches. That's the last thing we need.
Can you see who that is?
Mom - cellphone
- Number withheld. - Forget it then.
What then? Don't act more incompetent than you already are.
Honey, can you check the greenhouse? The thermostat's playing up.
Tomorrow, I said! Print it without me. It's almost done.
If it's not Peruvian enough,
photoshop a llama into the background!
That should do it.
Anyway, it's good training for Catherine.
I'll send my editorial tonight.
Jerome...
No, nothing... Bye.
Motherfucker!
Can you lend a hand?
If Gabriel could see you now!
You, Nino, so handsome, so slim...
Be nice to your father, he's totally lost right now.
Thanks.
I'll be right back.
Hey, kids, getting to know each other?
Don't worry about tomorrow.
I don't know what Gabriel decided,
but I'll always look after you.
Gabriel was like a father to me. I can be a father to you, can't I?
We'll see about that tomorrow. Who's the blonde?
Léa? Magnificent, isn't she?
And you haven't heard her sing!
She's a star.
Gabriel knew. She's been with us a month now.
She sang with the very best. Souchon,
Nana Mouskouri, Adamo...
And she voiced Sybilla, the sea anemone.
How do you explain it? Gabriel leave you a note? A clue?
- May I introduce my children? - Nice to meet you.
If you ever have a problem with the IRS,
call Nino. He's a tax officer.
I was an IRS intern 10 years ago.
It sticks to you. I'm an accountant now.
That's a fine profession, too.
Sorry, I have to go. I'm singing at 4.
- I'll drive you. - No, stay...
It'll take 20 minutes. Should I drive her?
Yeah, I'll drive her. Let's go.
He's not lost with the sea anemone.
I was 15 and my brother Paul was 4. We'd left Algeria a few months before
and lived with an uncle near the Blue Parrot.
It was on my way home from school.
I'd see the girls arrive, the lights go on...
I was drawn to it like a magnet.
One day, I summoned up the courage to go in.
Gabriel asked me, "What do you want?"
I said I wanted a job. He laughed and became my dad
or big brother, if you like...
Or lover?
He only loved women. All his life, he loved women.
And dressed like one.
That's right. To glorify them.
Anyhow, he taught me all I know.
Is Simone your children's mother?
Marianne's mother. Nino's mother wasn't there today.
I came back 12 years ago.
He needed a fresh vision to bring in a younger crowd.
Being famous always helps.
I'll keep the place going unchanged.
But what I wanted to say was...
we could try to meet up,
have lunch, if you want.
Let's try, sure. Tomorrow, on the beach?
OK, good, fine...
I gotta go.
My public awaits.
I owe the caterer. Where is he?
We took care of it.
I'll pay you back. I insist.
- See you tomorrow. - You're not staying? He's not?
I'll treat you all to dinner. It'll do us good.
I'm wiped out, dad. And I have an article to finish.
Can I get you some food?
No, thanks.
I don't get to spoil her often.
Don't you find Nino kind of detached?
Therapy seems to make people very distant.
Hurry! He's waiting.
- You're leaving, too? - He's exhausted.
He can get a ride in Nino's taxi, so...
See you later then.
Only me.
Am I interrupting?
Mom, I'm not at all hungry.
I have an editorial to write. We print tomorrow.
South America special issue.
Is Dad downstairs?
He's gone out. Didn't say where.
Has he lived here long?
2 years. It was Gabriel's idea.
- Don't make that face! - I'm not making a face.
Yes, you are! Like...
"Dad was in the shit so Gabriel bailed him out. "
Gabriel asked him to move in.
He liked Nicky being here. He needed him.
If you insist, we'll discuss it later.
I have to finish this.
I need to tie in tango, caipirinha and Machu Picchu.
And your brother, what a long face he had!
Prowling round the house like Banquo's ghost.
Who knows, maybe that's how he is.
Poor kid...
You saw him often?
Gabriel?
Now and then.
Did you really explore every avenue with Jerome?
Before you decide to adopt...
- Listen! - I can't take this now!
Grab your coat and get your hat
Leave your worries on the doorstep
Just direct your feet
To the sunny side of the street
Can't you hear a pitter-pat
And that happy tune is your step
- Fabrice, call me if you want. - Life can be so sweet
On the sunny side of the street
I used to walk in the shade
with my blues on parade
But now I'm not afraid
This rover crossed over
If I never had a cent
I'd be rich as Rockefeller
Going to set my feet on the sunny...
Mom, it's me. It was Gabriel's funeral today.
I don't know if you got my message. Give me a call.
Let me begin by expressing my condolences
for the loss of your... your...
Gabriel.
On a personal note,
I consider the passing of Mr. Stern
a great loss for the world of cabaret.
Now, if we may, we shall proceed with the reading of the will,
which is prefaced by a more personal text
addressed to all four of you by Mr. Stern.
"Well, children, it's done.''
"If you're reading this letter, you're all present, or almost,
and I'm very glad because, as you know, it was my dearest wish.''
"Nicky...''
"You are the love and light of my life,
both my brother and my son.''
"All I have done over 40 years, I've shared with you.''
"From the bottom of my heart,
all I own is yours, as you know.''
"Simone... The hours spent with you
are my fondest memories.''
"Above all, remember what fun we had!''
"Nino and Marianne...''
"You often came to me
in times of doubt or difficulty.''
"You had faith in me and I thank you.''
"I have faith in you also.''
"Now, I have to adopt a more official tone.''
"I, the undersigned, Gabriel Stern,
bequeath to Miss Simone Garcia
my collection of stage costumes,
comprising 163 dresses and outfits,
97 pairs of shoes,
as well as all my jewelry and accessories
for women.''
"To Mr. Joseph Bensalem,
alias Nicky Guazzini,
I bequeath the totality of my wardrobe for men
and my collection of cufflinks.''
"I bequeath the totality
of my remaining assets and possessions,
including the Blue Parrot
and my house Les Mimosas to...''
''My godchildren,
Nino Mirmont Bensalem
and Marianne Desailly, née Bensalem. "
It's all yours now.
These are Gabriel's office keys. You know the way.
Go survey your domain. Do what you want, you own it now.
Let's move it. I'm already late for my appointment.
We should open tonight. Well, that's what I'd do.
Madame Mirmont.
I know you're here. I saw you.
Stop this. I don't bite, you know.
- You scared me! - Appear, disappear, I do it every day!
I don't care if you bite. I just don't want to see you.
Can't we take 5 to talk about Nino?
I've a plane to catch.
Maybe they'll keep you.
You think it's funny? It's not. It's humiliating.
Humiliating in the eyes of the staff and my public, too.
Your public? Start a petition!
I smelled your presence.
You can smell when I'm around, can you?
That's peculiar. Like an old dog.
You're on form.
You recognized me. That's good.
What about Simone?
I suppose she was the first there, tearful
and ready to bear the sorrows of the world.
She's there for us, yes.
That must be hard to grasp
for someone who sneaks around with a dagger
ready to stab me in the back.
That was 25 years ago. You had it coming to you.
I didn't make it up. You sold some poor suckers, your beloved public,
dream apartments that didn't exist. Riviera Dream, my ass!
I got conned. They used my name.
It was your testimony that ruined me, Alice.
You ruined yourself!
If you're a businessman, I'm a majorette.
I said sorry so many times.
Your show had been canceled. I was wrong to rub it in.
You never replied to my letters...
Turned Gabriel against me...
He didn't need me for that. He had discernment and morals.
But he was OK with your double life?
I slept with Simone once!
And scored a bull's eye!
You'll miss your flight.
I follow your career. There was that article...
In Magicus?
It wasn't in The Times A feature about has-beens.
About comebacks!
Madame Mirmont?
I hate getting stuck in traffic!
Come on, let's not fight all the way to the grave.
See you soon.
Aren't you curious?
- About what? - This morning. The will...
If you have something to say, you usually say it.
You don't ask my permission.
He left it all to the kids. All of it!
I can't guess what they'll do.
And you?
I got the dresses.
That's nice, but you'll have a space problem.
I'd like us to make a fresh start.
You're wonderful, Nicky. I love you. Don't ever change.
Did you put that on?
Turn it off, please!
Turn it off!
You gotta sign it for me.
That's not funny.
- I never knew you were in the business. - It was a flop.
No way? Such a trendy look.
It was Dad's idea. His obsession.
I never felt so ashamed and he'd never been so proud.
He pictured us touring with me as his support act.
He thought it'd help his comeback, his little girl in the charts.
It was a flop. One more fiasco.
What have we got ourselves into?
How long since you been here?
Years. And you?
Every 3 months, to do the accounts.
So? The accounts?
Not great. The miracle never happened.
It needs a strong hand.
I have no room for this. It's total chaos.
I want out of this mess fast.
What's this?
Fan mail.
I think Gabriel wrote them to keep him happy.
That's pathetic.
Anyways, we're selling.
Yeah, sure...
You're wondering where she's hiding.
She's the reason you're here and you can't wait any longer.
Just a glimpse of her lights up your nights.
Ladies and gentlemen...
Coeur de Jade
What are you doing?
Picking up the crumbs you left me.
I don't have a dime to my name.
Couldn't even buy Alice an ice cream. What a loser!
I'm taking what's mine.
You're right. What's mine is yours, as you well know.
Didn't work out that way. By some sneaky sleight of hand,
what was yours is now my children's!
You're an artiste, not a businessman.
I'm down-and-out!
Didn't I always see you right? You never had reason to complain.
So, trust me.
No, I can't trust you anymore.
You must've gone out of your mind before you died.
And now you're gone.
What am I gonna do without the Parrot?
Pageants, parties for spoiled brats...
Or get my nose rubbed in it
on a lame TV show with C-list celebs feeding pigs!
You OK?
Rehearsing.
Good. Keep moving forward. If you stop, it's like a shark, you die.
No kidding.
Well, I've been through the accounts.
We need to work out how much inheritance tax we'll pay,
so I'm seeing the attorney tomorrow,
but according to my estimations it'll be around 200-250,000
if we count the Parrot, the house
and Gabriel's stock portfolio. Which means...
Vital having an accountant in the family, I say.
Thank you. Which means, if I'm not mistaken,
we'll have to sell.
The house, but not the Parrot.
- We talked it over. Maybe... - There is no maybe.
We sell both right away and we cut our losses.
You want to? You'd like that?
We have to.
Even if it was in profit, who'd run the Parrot? There's no one.
I could help out.
Stick to your bottles!
It's an institution!
It's squalid and decrepit.
The Parrot is life and pleasure! It's a shining light.
If Gabriel saw you running it, he'd have gifted it to you,
but the hot potato came our way. Alas!
So, leave this to us.
With any luck, we'll find a buyer who keeps the name, glitter, all that...
and who'll keep you on!
You won't! It'll become a supermarket.
You'll bag groceries then!
Finished? Can we talk this through?
She's right.
With 60% inheritance tax, we've no choice.
There's always a choice, kid, solutions to find.
If you saw your godfather more, you'd know that.
Where there's an audience, there's hope. Keeping us alive.
And it keeps coming.
I'll be there for it because it's there for me.
What's there?
My audience!
It's a bottomless pit. If we were smart, we'd have closed already.
Gabriel wouldn't want that.
How'd you know? You don't even know why he killed himself!
I do.
Great! Now, that's all of us
He was ill. That's why he did it. Or so my ex-wife says.
Simone?
No, Alice, the other one.
Nino's mother.
Sorry about earlier, I tried to make it but it was a tough day.
I couldn't wait. The tea dance.
They want to sell. They don't get it.
It's an institution and they don't get it.
They're happy to throw it all away, just like that.
He could have shown more faith.
When was the last time?
Three weeks ago. A Friday. There and back in a day.
- Which hospital? - Bretonneau.
How many times did you see him?
I didn't keep count.
So you'd have lunch and go see the doctor?
Lunch was usually after. You're a pain in the ass!
Did you do your face again?
You must have a lot of pain.
Pasta sound OK?
Wonderful. Thank you.
She's a pain too, always so polite.
You didn't think I'd like to know? Go to the hospital? Be with him?
We talked every week.
It was to protect you. He made me promise.
And what's with the dramatic entrance?
You couldn't just come to the funeral?
Get off my back, will you!
Some things you'll never know or understand.
So talk to me. That'd make a change.
- Where are you going? - For a walk.
I'll come with you.
Look, we met three times in 15 years. We'll survive an hour apart.
You hit hard earlier.
I just told them what we'd both decided.
We can't let things drift. Nicky needs to know where he stands.
We have to get on with our own lives.
It's not so simple. There are ways to say and do things.
What'll he do next week? No Parrot, no Gabriel and no dough?
He always bounces back. He'll find something.
He's at his best looking after himself.
We don't have to be like him.
- I'm gone. - Don't leave me alone with those two.
Lend me that? Thanks.
You have a life, do you?
Plain, simple Alice. Some things don't change.
I always liked to make an entrance.
In the last year, he was often in Paris for tests.
He needed me and I was there for him.
We talked a lot.
His illness, his memories, the past...
You fell out 20 years ago and he confides in you!
Don't blame me if none of you noticed.
Now, I don't fry bacon in oil. It's already very greasy.
The oil makes it nice and crispy.
He was proud.
We didn't see because he hid it so well.
Sorry, honey! Greasy bacon on soggy spaghetti, no, thank you.
You tell her! You don't cover pasta
when it's cooking.
There are many schools of thought.
Most people agree it makes the pasta go squishy.
But in parts of southern Italy, it's tolerated.
Lucky we have a lifestyle guru in the house!
Are you staying long?
If it's to savor your cuisine...
To do so, I'll need some assistance from the audience...
- Sir! You have a head for business? - Yes.
Thanks, Raphael.
And you're a betting man? You'll make the ideal partner for me.
What's your star sign?
Taurus.
Ascendant?
Taurus.
Cute name, Nino.
- Is it Italian? - Algerian Jew.
Joseph Bensalem was a terrible stage-name,
so he invented Nicky Guazzini. More magical!
I inherited my father's new Italian roots.
Ever watch The Rabbit In The Hat?
Sure, everybody did.
Not me.
Nothing scared my mother, except me being
like my father. So I couldn't watch it.
All I remember is dumb imitations by guys at school.
- In that, at least, she won. - Won what?
You honestly see a resemblance?
I have a problem with Olympia. She has pimples
and is putting on weight. Talk to her or we're in trouble.
Any ideas?
Go easy on her. In any case...
If I go easy on her, in 2 weeks, it'll be Baghdad Café.
You know...
- My low-carb diet is... - I'll talk to her.
Good, I gotta run. Victor has flu.
My cat. I'm very worried.
He's demanding, isn't he?
Yes, but he's sweet. And faithful.
I saw you talking to Léa earlier.
Don't you get it?
- I like boys... - Yes, I know that.
I'm talking about me.
I like her a lot, but I'm getting nowhere.
I've been trying for a month.
What do you think?
If I were in your shoes, I think I'd like her a lot.
I played the Four Aces in '99, I think.
No, I'm sure because we rang in the Year 2000.
- I did too, 10 years earlier. - You knew Rosie then?
The fat slob!
When I knew her, she was curvaceous.
That's for my son.
For his birthday. He lives with his dad. With my lifestyle...
He must be proud.
You're not eating?
After my divorce, I tried the States. I auditioned. Big shows!
I got a part in "Les Miserables".
Touring. Fantine.
And?
I turned it down.
I fell in love with an asshole.
They usually are.
I dropped out of the cast and he dropped me soon after.
It's strange that...
we never ran into each other.
Eat. I'll be right back.
I waited up for you last night.
I apologize. Maybe I was a little harsh.
Can you answer me?
I was all alone. It was scary.
Hey! You're being ridiculous, not answering me.
What are you doing?
Leaving a house that is no longer my home before I get kicked out.
Will you stop being pathetic?
Nino and I had no choice. Gabriel didn't leave us any choice.
Gabriel liked games. Setting problems. Finding solutions.
You never wondered why he left it all to you two?
You think it was to destroy his life's work?
Where will you go? You're broke.
Broke but full of resources, don't worry.
He didn't say anything about the car, so I get to keep it.
Yes, we spoke at the Golden Wand awards.
That's right, The Rabbit In The Hat.
No, Guazzini... One G and two Zs.
It's not really magic.
I call it a journey in illusion, exploring our own humanity.
OK, we can talk about it then.
How does it work? You send a crew over or...
OK, I'll send you a tape.
What are you doing here?
I have a plan. We need to talk.
You're out of your mind!
It's a winner. That's all TV is now. Rehashing old ideas.
I saw you earlier. You're in great shape.
Superb legs. A dream!
What does Jerome say?
He thinks I can't have them.
And you can?
You're absolutely crazy!
It's absurd. Adoption's a last resort if you're old, sterile, gay...
The "woman sawn in 2" and the conjuror is not a pedigree I'm proud of.
I won't keep that bloodline going. I refuse to reproduce.
Simple as that. It's not a crime.
If your partner agrees...
Absolutely.
Can you cut that out?
It's not easy for me right now. I'm feeling fragile.
I could relapse any minute.
Treat yourself.
A couple of spoonfuls of Nutella
won't put back on the 14 kilos
you lost.
You're a witch!
- I had an unhappy childhood. - Stop that!
Your room is ready, sir.
- Colette, life goes on. - The Parrot is my life.
I didn't just give my ass for it, I gave my soul!
What's up?
Nothing's up. Not at all.
And the animals?
What?
I have 2 rabbits, an owl, a monkey, 3 parrots
and 6 budgies. What do I do with them?
You should take the rabbits.
My Victor is all that keeps me going.
Please! Are there any questions?
Girls, focus!
In any case,
this decision was very tough for us to make.
Sorry we're late. Don't let us interrupt.
- We've finished. - One last thing, everybody.
We perform for 3 more days. Please give it your all. For Gabriel.
The girl sure can slink!
Come on, let's go!
Let's move it before the cellulite sets in.
"Bottoms Up". Very cute.
Good to see you make a success of yourself.
It's not easy after a stage career.
Gabriel and I talked a lot recently.
So you said.
We could've been friends if you hadn't been so scared of me.
I was never scared of you.
The day Gabriel hired you, I knew you'd bust my ass.
I'd no idea it'd be my whole life but I knew.
Maybe you were asking for it?
You sashayed in with your education, beauty,
air of mystery...
You had it all, by divine right. It was awesome.
We'd come from Algeria weighed down
by an awful sense that we had nothing by right.
You were the full-fledged Frenchwoman.
So when you turned up, I was dazzled.
But I knew you were a bitch.
Are you happy now? Less dazzled?
You're still beautiful.
You still bear a grudge? It's far away now.
It's our life. Let's not pretend, we only have one.
I envy you, I think.
Because I'm not like you.
You want something, you take it, no scruples.
Everybody works that way. Including you.
Why'd you say that?
I told you. We talked a lot, me and Gabriel.
See you!
They long for a man's gaze. They need it.
- Let her through. - She's so tight-assed.
Button it, bitch
Do they ever wear clothes?
They're very shy really. They never sunbathe topless.
On stage, you're not naked, you're dressed in light.
Ladies and gentlemen, I'd like to tell you
what first made me want to be a magician.
I came from down South, the real South, in North Africa.
All I knew was the sun, the heat, the sound of the waves and the Sirocco.
I was 15 years old and, one day, a miracle occurred.
I woke up in this town, that was still foreign to me,
I went to the window
and for the first time, I saw this...
Magic!
It snowed on Nice that day.
Thank you!
Tempo, girls! Donatella, Apollonia...
I want to see those butts smile!
I mix to measure, according to the stars. I rarely get it wrong.
What sign are you?
- Vodka, tonic rising. - I'm out of vodka. I'll be right back.
Careful, your eyes'll pop out.
- What's your Fabrice do? - Student. Law, first year.
I have to push him to stick at it.
Jerome likes them young, too. Taking a girl under his wing
makes his balls swell.
He left me 6 months ago. Vero. Student. Psychology, first year.
Maybe she knows Fabrice!
Don't forget to cash up, children. Gabriel insisted.
Goodnight, darlings. I'm gone. I have a big day tomorrow.
"To hope is to suffer. "
My little world.
Easy to pack and unpack.
I'm sorry, I didn't mean to...
I was just looking round. It's been so long.
It's all yours now. At least, that's what Nicky said.
- Want some? - No, thanks.
Were you planning on staying long?
Until the end of the month.
Will you excuse me?
Are you going to move down here? Keep the flag flying?
Since I was a kid, I've carved out a world of my own.
Gabriel waving his magic wand won't change my mind.
Shame. It's worth keeping on. This is a fine place.
Believe me, I've seen some dives.
You know, show business, being footloose and fancy free...
It's very romantic
but never impressed me.
Why are you so hard on Nicky?
I'm not responsible for him.
Antoine!
I was a virgin, a complete virgin.
I'd never seen one before, obviously I was impressed.
It was very impressive!
You'd already seen a whole bunch.
Hey, David Copperfield!
Don't run away!
Speak of the devil!
Come on, we wanna talk to you.
Don't tell him.
He needs to know.
We'll sleep easier afterwards.
OK, I'm here now.
Remember Alfred?
Sure. So cute. And such talent!
That's right, you were two of a kind.
He ran away and you never found him?
I punished him. He got mad and escaped.
He kept crapping all over.
He was a star. Smart, photogenic, the best I ever had.
Anyway, to get our revenge on you...
We ate your rabbit!
With mustard and bacon.
Come on!
If we can't have a joke...
Hold on!
Don't be mad at us.
Antoine's left me.
I meant to tell you...
Your idea. I'll do it.
Tomorrow. The Parrot, 11 o'clock.
The bartender kicked me out.
Let's open those bottles I bought.
I wouldn't do that.
Why?
It's undrinkable.
Bad girl!
Last week, he performed for you on the flying trapeze.
Tonight, he will appear out of nowhere
I mean, of course, our star,
our beacon in the night,
Alfred the rabbit
Good.
You can get in the box now.
- OK? - Fine.
Now, let's see.
You know how it works?
Don't worry, it's like riding a bike. You don't forget.
Know what we'll do?
We'll run through it once, then we'll film it.
- OK. - It's gonna be fine.
Right, legs first...
How are you coping?
I'm fine.
It's done me good. I needed a kick up the behind.
I was stagnating here.
I mean, out of loyalty to Gabriel, so I've no regrets.
The provinces are fine but Paris is where it's at.
For sure.
What about you? Antoine leaving must have been tough.
That's sweet, but Antoine's been off my mind for ages.
Look, Simone...
I owe you an apology.
What for?
It's not been easy for me,
living with the guilt all these years.
I always loved you.
We grew up together, left Algeria,
spent that night together...
Marianne...
See, I haven't lost my touch.
What are you saying?
That I always loved you, but like a sister.
You're absolutely unbelievable!
You blow me away!
Don't be angry, honey.
You're completely blind.
You never saw? No, too far up your own ass!
Easy. What are you talking about?
I haven't loved you for years.
Decades!
Get me out of here!
It was Gabriel I loved all these years. And he loved me.
I don't believe you.
You better believe it!
Open this fucking box!
You had no idea, you big dope!
Bullshit, he never left my side.
And the English lessons?
Did his English get any better?
And his annual trip across Europe?
The wig conference was you?
I miss him.
You won't ever know how much.
Out of love for you, he insisted you never know.
He was so afraid you'd be hurt.
He was wrong.
Treating a man your age like a boy is pathetic!
You both make me sick!
Where are you going?
Come back!
- Sorry! - Can't you knock?
I'm seeing some land with my mother. Wanna come?
I don't plan to settle here, thanks.
See you at the Parrot, then.
- What do you think? - It's good. Really good.
It's calm.
And the view's great.
Is it only for you or do you plan to entertain?
It's big. There's room for the whole family.
Even for Dad?
I doubt he'd want that.
Who knows, the way things are going...
Face it, it's freaky.
My whole life, you teach me to despise him.
And for the last 3 days, I see you prowling round him.
What do you want exactly?
Nothing.
I'm trying to be nice. Don't resent me for that.
I do resent it!
I resent it because I'm used to you two not speaking.
Gabriel's dead. Isn't that why we're here?
You, too. Your sister, too.
We all have our memories, our grief and reasons to...
Our reasons to what?
To try to understand certain things. To make peace.
I watched The Rabbit In The Hat at last.
You said it was crap, ridiculous...
but it's not crap. It's funny and charming.
It doesn't hurt anyone, at least.
It hurt me.
You still don't understand.
I held such a grudge because I loved him so much.
You never told me.
Shall we go?
It's hard, isn't it?
Have you put on weight?
Is somebody there?
- Help! - I'm coming!
What are you doing in there?
Please, get me out.
Hurry!
The notes on the table. Hurry!
Hang on...
Is that right?
I'm sorry...
The blades! Remove the blades!
The red things, that's right!
The ones in the middle...
Be careful. Easy does it!
And the bolts.
On top. Hurry!
Are you OK?
Come on...
He took off and just left me here.
I've been sawn in two for 2 hours.
Why?
I said something he didn't like.
If it's what I think, you chose a great time.
You knew?
I've known for ages.
What do you think?
It was dumb of you both.
You should have told him right away.
Anyway, aside Nicky, everybody knew.
I didn't know.
Sorry, but what are you wearing?
I have great news.
My agent's got me a gig in New York, at the Rainbow Room.
He sent them Sybilla in French and bingo!
If it works out, the contract's 6 months, renewable.
Wonderful! I'm pleased for you.
I'll mention you. You could audition.
Maybe we can go together.
I can't speak English.
They find that charming.
I don't fly.
I'll hold your hand.
I wasn't much when Gabriel was here. Now he's gone, I'm nothing.
You gotta face it when you hit the buffers.
OK, Cocktail Boy?
- What can I get you? - Apple juice!
I'll fine you unless you tell me who tampered with the scales.
Hard work fights cellulite,
not cheating.
Tomorrow, an hour's extra pool aerobics. Yes, Nino?
He's not here. We need a back-up.
We'll think of something, toots.
Frankie, is the trapeze still in place?
I made it specially for you.
I realized when I was doing the books.
I kept finding bills and plane tickets in your name.
As a joke, I asked if you were lovers.
He said yes.
I think he left a trail to get it off his chest.
It sucks, always trying
to manipulate everybody.
Hide me from Nicky, hide his illness from me... Why the hell hide it?
We're strong, we can take it.
- Did you know about this? - Of course.
Renovating the Parrot was his dream.
He wanted me to run the restaurant.
You're leaving?
I'm too old for clubs.
It's so hard to talk?
You don't make it easy, honestly. You judge.
I didn't want to hear your opinion.
But I still love you.
Me too, even if you don't trust me.
Shall I come?
Don't worry, I'm used to being alone.
You should have told people.
Gabriel should have thought.
Mourning's bad enough without having to hide it.
It was our secret.
She's perfect for your father.
Anyway, he always preferred blondes.
Bless you!
That's not the way to do it.
You have to take the plunge.
If you have time to sneeze, you're thinking too much.
It's already too late.
Get a grip!
Remember when you first came to see me?
You were 15 and cute as a button.
Orphans always have something extra.
I saw you come in.
You looked at the Parrot girls as if they were all yours.
You tripped
and fell flat on your face. It was comical, of course.
They all burst out laughing
but you picked yourself up and took a deep bow.
They fell for you right away.
You know it's true.
The next week, Colette took your cherry. I remember thinking,
the kid's got spirit.
You were my spirit.
The bitch!
The other night, when I fell asleep...
I was pretending.
I know.
Seaweed?
Waitress. I kept smashing things.
And dog-walker...
Dog-walker? For old ladies?
A gem of a job.
Then the usual stuff people offer girls
who aren't too ugly and want to sing.
Hostess...
lingerie model...
usher, art school model...
I was even "the woman sawn in two".
One evening...
For a top magician.
A very handsome man.
I was singing in a club and he was on after me.
His assistant didn't show at the last minute.
He asked me to do it.
I accepted because he was a guy I truly admired.
I was in a bad spot back then. I was all skin and bone.
I weighed maybe ten kilos less. I was unrecognizable.
I thought he was very sweet.
He also made me laugh a lot.
Then, after the show,
we made love in his car.
A bit sleazy maybe,
but very good...
Very comforting, too.
And then...
You left. You had a long drive.
You had another show next day.
But you're one of my good memories.
When I came to the Parrot, I knew you'd be here.
I saw right away that you liked me but you didn't recognize me.
That was nice. I was pleased.
It shows I'm a lot better.
- What time is it? - Don't know.
Shit! I'm late!
Why didn't you tell me earlier?
I wanted to be courted.
I'm sick of people toying with me. You should've said.
It would have saved me this.
I'll call you.
Where will you go when I've left?
It's sweet of you to help me out. I appreciate it.
Gabriel often took me to luxury hotels.
He loved it.
Specially the breakfasts.
We're all hurting. Deal with it.
A shark stops swimming, it dies. So...
Heaps of people must be waiting for you to sell them their booze.
You can't let them down.
There's a spark there. I didn't dream it.
He watches me, he hovers...
She gave it the works, the throaty laugh, moist lips...
A young bartender like him, he falls in head first.
Sorry? Already?
OK, I'll call you then.
No, I'll be back for the next session.
Goodbye.
What are you doing?
Housework helps me relax.
I found the storeroom key. Wanna come?
Why was this off limits for 30 years?
Strange. On the plans, it's bigger.
What plans?
Check this out.
Shit, it's a bordello!
I never saw this one before.
Your ma looks good in garters, too.
She was the Parrot's publicist.
If this was a brothel, then who were the ladies?
What the hell is Coeur de Jade?
Wait!
Couldn't you admit it? You said you were the publicist!
Well, I was the publicity.
C'mon, it's funny.
I need to talk to you.
OK, Coeur de Jade, shoot.
You make it sound awful! You're such a prude!
Mom, look at me.
Tell me...
What do I do with this now?
It's my life. You have my love, I give it to you
but my life belongs to me. You can't change that.
This opens up infinite horizons.
Maybe Nicky's not my dad.
Maybe my life'll make sense if I look up
your old clients.
Nicky is your father. Sorry!
Damn it! He's a fine one to talk!
He goes gooey for guys half his age and gets preachy with me!
He's hardly a virgin.
Surely he can cope with his mother having a sex life.
It's a shock. Try to understand.
The shit we take trying to understand where you're at, who you are...
You filter out the information drop by drop and...
we're supposed to understand.
When I met Gabriel, he gave me Coeur de Jade.
She was heaven-sent for me. No past, no future, just power.
I slipped into the costume and they were all at my feet.
I was the queen.
How did the fairy tale end?
I fell in love with Nicky.
It's a funny kind of emancipation.
There were so many causes...
abortion, Woodstock, women's liberation.
I screwed my way to liberation.
If it shocks you, tough!
No, it doesn't shock me.
I envy you.
Nino does, too.
The freedom, the buzz...
After the buzz comes the hangover.
I've lost my costume. I fall for men who get younger,
who dump me faster to live their own lives.
I look at myself and see my father. All that I hated.
I'd like grandchildren. Fat chance.
I wasn't cut out for motherhood.
Nicky wanted kids. He's a born father.
Could have fooled me.
When I found out about you, you and Nino were seven.
I was sick with jealousy, raging mad.
It wasn't love for Simone but for you that he was hiding.
I realized too late.
Don't worry about Nino.
We're not friends yet, are we?
It'll come.
- What a great surprise! - I jumped at the chance.
- You can introduce me to your mom. - And dad.
- After hiding me so long. - I didn't.
I understand. I'm 10 years younger.
All this is yours?
- I hit the jackpot! - Like it?
- I love it. - Honestly?
Dad, this is Fabrice.
It's weird seeing you for real. My grandma adores you.
What?
Can we talk a minute?
I won't keep him long.
I'll have a smoke.
I just dropped by.
I saw the gates open, lights on...
Typical Marianne! Money out the window.
That bitch Simone took all the boas. He said the dresses, not the boas.
He loved her.
It appears so.
He loved you, too.
- You think? - He told me often enough,
all my life.
I talk to him, you know.
Me, too.
What did you want?
Nothing. I just wanted us to spend a moment together.
I wasted so much time trying not to be you.
I got your message. Is it serious?
Come in.
You're here? You got out of your box?
It's Nino. He's gone off the wall.
Why?
Coeur de Jade, the Parrot, all that.
They found your backroom.
That's good.
You think so?
Sure!
Come on, stop sulking now.
It was funny.
"Nicky, open this box! Get me out!"
You deserved it, you crone, making me feel guilty for 30 years.
He's right. You were so sly,
making out that I stole your man.
Get off me! I checked the wrong box!
Orange or grapefruit juice?
Grapefruit.
You're most faithful to what we were.
He had no choice.
We get older but deep down we stay the same.
Except you were a jerk then, showing me off like a trophy.
As if he'd flown to the moon!
I'm trashed. Like when she got me drunk and into bed.
How charming of you.
You don't need to get me drunk.
I'm exhausted.
I'm going to bed.
Wonderful! Turn out the lights!
See that, Victor?
Holy shit!
Hi!
Hello, I'm Marianne.
I know. I love your writing.
Where's Nino?
He left early. Meetings.
You made hot chocolate?
And crackers. Want some?
No, no crackers.
We should call Nino. He'd love to see us like this.
He'd have a heart attack.
Since Gabriel died, my sex life's booming.
There must be a link.
It's crazy. I'm in awe, being here with you.
Don't start that again. The statue,
the trophy, the inaccessible... Give me a break!
In any case, I'm happy. What better way to make up!
The less said, the better.
I'm going away.
Where?
I don't know yet.
Miami, with my brother. Or maybe New York.
On a plane?
I haven't worked out the details but I'm going.
Do you remember this?
Of course! Gabriel's parrot.
I mean, his mother's.
He was devastated he lost it. You had it?
He gave it to me.
Age 12, he crossed France alone, with this round his neck.
He thought it would protect me.
Take it.
For your trip. You may need it.
Come tonight.
Coming?
Vanity, chin up!
Together! You're out of step there!
Franky, this is not a good time.
Give that butt cheek air, sweets!
More air!
They're beautiful.
They're tall!
We're funny little creatures Delighted to meet you
Tourists on the town Eye us up and down
But a hand on the behind Sends us out of our minds
Look but do not touch At the Blue Parrot
My Chinese sign is horse.
- I'm dragon. - Love it!
Sagittarius, Scorpio rising. Save you time. Same again for table 2.
Nino, wait!
Is something wrong?
- Sorry, I'm neglecting you. - No sweat, it's cool.
Back here.
You wanted to see me?
Very cute, Fabrice, with his kiss-me lips.
I got a letter from Jerome today.
He won't go with me but he signed the form.
I'm leaving in 2 days.
Will you go with me?
I can't be your child's dad.
You can be my brother.
I've made a decision. I want to keep this place alive.
I took care of everything, bank, contractors...
I want to stay here. I mean, if that's OK with you.
I'm going to Kaliningrad alone then?
Are you ready?
Almost.
I'll come back.
Mom, this is Fabrice.
Pleasure to meet you.
I'll be right back.
Girls, don't linger! 3- minute turnaround.
Who's that?
That, sweetpea, is Coeur de Jade.
Some say love, it is a river
that drowns the tender reed
Some say love, it is a razor
that leaves your soul
to bleed
Some say love, it is a hunger
an endless aching need
I say love, it is a flower
and you its only seed
It's the heart afraid of breaking
that never learns to dance
It's the dream afraid of waking
that never takes the chance
It's the one who won't be taken
who cannot seem to give
and the soul afraid of dying
that never learns to live
when the night
has been too lonely
and the road has been too long
and you think that love is only
for the lucky and the strong
just remember
in the winter
far beneath the bitter snows
lies the seed that with the sun's love
in the spring becomes the rose
My flight's in 2 hours. There's a seat for you.
I can't. I have things to attend to here.
But I'm very attached to this parrot.
He has history.
History?
I'll tell you in New York.
I enjoyed your performance.
Thanks.
That's my flight.
Take care of it.
Yes, I know.
- Perfect, huh? - Where'd you find that?
In Gabriel's closet.
The bastard! I spent years looking for it.
Kick! And kick!
Seduction! It's not the Royal Ballet!
And head! Head! Head!
You're not at all in rhythm!
It's looking good.
We open in 6 weeks.
I prepared these for you.
I thought you'd like them.
Thanks, that's nice.
Nervous about the trip?
I'm going by boat.
I got hired on a cruise ship.
Wanna see Simone?
No, we had dinner last night. She cried for 2 hours solid.
Take good care of her.
You'll always have a place here.
I know.
I intend to take you up on it later.
For my old age.
Have a good trip.
- Mail! - Thanks, Nico.
- Finish the inventory? - Tonight, boss. Promise.
A diamond, the one on the left. Just needs polishing.
Polish, polish!
Has he gone?
I prefer. Last night, there was no stopping him.
Tearful farewells aren't my thing.
How's it feel to be a grandma?
It looks good on you.
I don't look fat in it?
It looks great.
Why'd you have to go like that?
I had some fabulous memories.
They were slipping away, so I thought I would, too.
You left a damn big mess behind.
That's good.