Madame, dinner is served.
Thank you Marguerite. Ah...there's Monsieur.
What's that ?
Official paper...this one's a writ.
Is it serious ?
A bit more than yesterday, a bit less than tommorrow.
Got to be paid?
800,000 - do you have it?
My jewellery?
Thanks... very nice of you.
Oh... stop that piano!
- He's doing his scales. - OK... come and sit up now!
--- Something's really on your nerves !
That's enough !
Did the client for the still-life come back ?
No.
So you haven't made anything ? If you don't count filing my nails.
Jean-Pierre, for the 100th time, don't swing on your chair!
Tell papa what you saw on the third level of the Eiffel Tower.
Lots of houses. I've seen them before.
I now I get a letter from school. Boy, is this my day!
Your elbows for heavens sake! Don't they teach you anything?
122,000 francs this term. I don't know what he's learned,
but I know what it cost me. - Darling... !
20,000 for riding. 10,000 for the fencing master.
Whadda you want your kid to become?
A musketeer?
You didn't need to buy me this bracelet!
True...everything for him...
and nothing for you.
You're going out?
There's a guy out in the sticks with some paintings for sale.
You never know... At this hour?
No rest for the wicked. So goodnight sweetie.
You might say goodbye to Jean-Pierre Yes of course.
Eat it all up. I've got enough leftovers in the gallery.
Jean-Pierre !
- Ah, that brat...
You don't need eyes in the back of your head to know what faces he's pulling.
If there weren't any holidays...
But there's 10 days at Christmas, 15 at Easter, 8 at Pentecost.
There's no end to it... ...forever weighing me down.
It'd be bad enough if it was mine... But that one!...
...had to take HIM with his mother!
Come in...it's open.
Pardon the mess, Monsieur Kelber,
but I'm just about to leave the country.
Quite understand.
Sorry for the late hour, but I'm running around all day.
Please...no problem.
Can I offer you a drink ? Scotch?
Gladly.
My 'fridge is packed up, so no ice.
Doesn't matter.
Going far?
10 hours by plane and 5 days in a dugout...
...and my wife doesn't like mosquitoes!
Good health!
You must be anxious to get away...
The paintings are over there.
The light's not very good.
That doesn't matter.
So?
Not worth much. How much are you looking for?
It's my wife who's selling them.
She'll be back on Thursday. I just want an estimate.
You could have waited to call me in.
I wanted to save time.
Who put you onto me? The directory...
Have they been appraised?
I thought that an art dealer...
A dealer isn't necessarily an expert!
A connoisseur...yes !
I can only give you a very rough price.
It's possible though that this one here is a valuable painting.
This here...
2500 francs... for the frame!
This one looks like a Courbet.
...in the way a mule looks like a horse.
No mistake, a bunch of turkeys!
This portrait is the only one that interests me.
Good heavens, I knew this kisser.
and this style...
My wife makes out it's
a Gauguin.
- Yes, it was a Gauguin!
A Gauguin, no mistake. A self-portrait.
The great find of my life.
But keep calm, goddamn... keep calm! Got to play it close.
Indeed, it may confusing.
But under examination, you know...
You find supposéd old masters by the cartload.
I wouldn't want to get your hopes up,
but not wanting to waste my time for nothing, I'm proposing
that you entrust them to me until Thursday.
I'll show them to an expert, a friend of mine, and give you a firm price.
That wouldn't be too much trouble?
No, it won't cost you anything.
In that case, done!... thanks very much.
Do you want some wrapping paper?
No, I always carry bags in my car.
This one,
I'll leave for you!
You sure you'll get back by Thursday?
Maybe tomorrow.
Because we leave Thursday evening.
I never make promises I can't keep.
In any case, you have our 'phone number.
Vaucresson 14. That's it.
So Thursday without fail. Tomorrow perhaps.
Can I give you a hand?
Thanks. Just those two.
I'll come with you.
Thanks.
GAUGUIN 91.
If it's authentic, it's worth a fortune.
A fortune within reach.
The canvas looks right age.
The frame too.
I'll have to ask Lacroix
how he came by it.
10 million, maybe 15... enough to get rid all my hassles.
And this birdbrain who knew nothing about painting.
I'd 've been silly to put him wise.
Paintings aren't his business, they're mine.
An expert could very well think a real Gaughin was a copy.
As an art dealer, I buy as cheaply as possible.
And if a conflicting expert opinion says it's real...
That's my good luck.
But gently does it...mustn't get in a flap. After all...it may be a fake.
Yes, it's me.
But listen old boy, do you know what time it is?
You're crazy!
Nobody rings at one o'clock in the morning for an appraisal.
i don't give a fuck about Gauguin at one o'clock in the morning !
I'll come back when I can. 'bye.
Aren't you coming to bed?
No, I'm not sleepy.
Don't make too much noise and wake Jean-Pierre.
Dear boy, I don't want to hold back on you. I understand your impatience.
This Gauguin is worth all the fuss.
It's real? I'm sure of it!
As sure as I can be on a first viewing.
A spectrographic analysis'll give us absolute certainty.
But don't worry, you won't be disappointed with the result!
It's a genuine Gauguin...91.
Done between his 2 Tahiti voyages.
Yes, I agree with that.
I can find you a dozen rich art lovers.
I have someone, but if the deal doesn't come off I'll get back to you.
This stuff's pretty bad... Still...
everyone can't be Gauguin!
My dear chap... at your service!
'Bye and thanks again.
It was nothing.
See you. See you.
Hullo...yes... Vaucresson 14.
Yes, it's me.
100,000 francs for the lot?
That's very little.
Maybe 120,000 as you have my sympathy... but no more.
I'll discuss it with my wife.
I'll call by and pick up the canvases if you're there.
That's fine.
If you're there? I'll say!
When you risk letting a Gaughin slip between your fingers...
While I'm waiting, I'll clean it.
Am I interrupting your work?
I was just tinkering with something. Pardon my outfit.
So? Have you decided?
I'm here to pick up my canvases. Has your wife refused my offer?
You know women, they get sentimental about things.
They're family heirlooms.
She would've let them go for a good offer, but yours ...
Well... there's been a new development.
A client wants your Courbet imitation.
I can make you a good offer.
Ah yes? 300,000.
That's pretty good.
The problem is... my wife wants to sell the lot in one go.
I'll take the lot for 500,000. Happy?
800.
I'll speak to her about it. In the meantime, I'll take them.
Leave them, we'll come to an agreement.
Which is... 1 million!
I can't leave them with you, I have another buyer.
In that case...
Will you get them for me, I've got a taxi waiting.
- A nasty setback, but I'd expected it.
If the buyer's a dealer,
I'll be put down as a first class scoundrel.
What'll I do, dammit? What'll I do?
Tell me if you will, is your buyer a dealer?
No, just a collector.
By the way, I've put you to a lot of trouble.
Do I owe you something? No, it's nothing.
Thank you.
Vaucresson, at the roundabout please.
- I don't want to hear that piano!
You're deliberately goading me!
Mama! What's the matter?
He tried to hit me.
Marc, you are NOT to touch my child!
I haven't touched him! He only asks to like you!
Who did he ask! Not me! You frighten him.
So now I'm the bogeyman... this really makes my day.
Bogeyman, geriatric and simpleton.
Geriatric... Are you calling me that?
Like a simpleton, I let a great business deal slip through my fingers.
No point in bothering us about it. Yes, you're right.
I'm jumpy. I apologise.
Go give Papa a hug... a big kiss so he won't be angry any more.
Where're you going? Lunch at Roger Masnier's.
Off you run. Be good.
Darling, everything's fixed.
But sometimes that means fixed badly.
You haven't forgotten my monthly allowance? Already?
It's the end of the month every week!
I'll fix you up.
With a wife like that, I can't afford to be poor.
And yet...
If Lacroix had taken me at my word...
I wouldn't have the quarter million that I offered.
I've got 212,000 left in the bank.
I've got to re-float that Gaughin deal.
At any cost!
What the hell are you doing there? Housework of course!
No, Monsieur Kelber, you're not disturbing me.
Yes, the collector's been.
Can you believe, he offered me one point eight million
Crazy!
The only trouble, he wants to pay in 2 installments, and I have to leave.
My client's come back to me.
How are you travelling this evening? Hullo... Don't hang up! Don't hang up!
2 million!
That's agreed. 2 million before this evening, in cash.
2 million cash before this evening...
when you've got 212,000 in your pocket...
Easy...you juggle your credit.
Ten years as a client of the banker who listens to you politely,
shakes your hand like he's known you all his life,
but today, regretfully,
the manager can lend me nothing.
I took out my 212,000 anyway.
Got to hit my connections, and quickly.
When you have a house of your own, you can't be too badly off.
Yes I understand.
No use pushing it, even with old army mates.
Cross my heart, I can't help.
Two hours lost, together with my hopes. What's left?
My car ?
The car's not too bad, I should get 500,000.
500 + 200 = 700...
for 2 million...
There's my wife's jewellery!
Those pieces of junk cost me dearly.
If I can't get a million, those jewellers were bandits.
Clara would see to reason.
In a few days she'd get double them back.
There... 600,000 francs.
- 600 000 francs! Those thieves!
A solid gold investment they called it.
That's all? Yes, that's all.
Well, Mr Kelber, you look a bit shaky today.
A painting boom on?
Tell me Bertrand, you like to make a quick profit...
Yes, we sell them here!
As a neighbour, I want to put you on to a sure thing.
Nice of you to think of me.
It's a good deal?
Smoking hot, 100%, double your money in a fortnight,
a true miracle.
You've got me in.
What's it need? 800 thou'?
If you don't like it,
you don't have to go along with it. Who, me?
I'll follow you with my eyes shut.
Great, you'll get it back in in a fortnight.
I stake my word.
Hang on neighbour, I'll get the rest.
I'll give you a receipt. Not necessary!
It's best, between gentlemen.
- Hurry up, you'll miss the plane.
Ah... Monsieur Kelber.
Sorry for being late.
You have the money?
It's in a bit of a mess, but it's the right amount.
Of course.
Tell me, are there sales charges?
10% charge to the seller usually.
And in general, the buyer and the seller
split the 10%, right? In general, yes.
There...
Thanks
I'll wait for you in the taxi. -Yes, I'm coming.
Wait, we're taking these.
There.
Delighted to have made your acquaintance.
Must cut the goodbyes short. Au revoir, Monsieur.
My receipt! Oh well , I don't need it.
I had the Gauguin, that was essential
and with it I'd have the certificate of authenticity.
Kelber, please excuse me, I'll be with you right away.
Please, I've plenty of time.
Especially since I already cleaned the canvas.
A Corot, in a Senlis antique shop?
You really have a flair!
I hope so.
you know what Degas said? There are 1500 Corots
in the world, of which 3000 are in America.
I believe you've uncovered an American Corot.
You're sure?
That's his job!
Sorry...
Me too!
And your fee...what do I owe you?
Fix that with my secretary.
I'll put your canvas back in the frame.
Here, take it.
There you are.
These amateurs, they're all the same. They think they're very smart.
Do you know how I recognize a fake painting?
By the face of the sucker who brings it to me.
They have a family resemblance, that doesn't deceive an expert.
You gotta believe it!
But tell me this is your joke!
My joke?
Kelber, don't tell me you're one of the suckers...
...you haven't been duped by this copy!
This copy?
A clever one though.
But nothing like the Gauguin you showed me before.
Shit...
You've been had?
Rather, yes
My poor chap. Expensive?
6 million.
Of course, that's a lot for a fake Gauguin, But for a real one...
...it'd be worth it.
Excuse me.
Like a dinner... I've been done like a dinner.
The louse!
I could always run. Even if I caught up with him, what could I do?
Make a complaint?
He hasn't pretended to sell me a real Gauguin.
I really was in deep shit.
Of course the cage was empty.
And to catch the bird, I'd need wings.
He'd rented the villa for 2 months.
His previous address - Hotel du Louvre, where he'd stayed 2 weeks,
coming from another hotel, where he'd stayed 3 weeks.
The trail petered out in Montparnasse.
"A true miracle", is what he called it.
Because it was a neighbour, I believed it.
Then I saw the miracle.
I put 800 g's on the table... and pht!..
...they vanish.
I never see them again.
3 months ago.
Shouldn't you complain? He's paying me back 50 a month.
Better than wasting time in court.
There, it's weighed.
300 francs.
However, I wonder where he gets the 50 a month.
You never see a soul in his shop.
He's selling soft furnishings.
Ah, that'll do well in this neighbourhood, I'm sure!
There, look at him!
Oh no!... it's not a miracle!
How much do you want?
Oh...about half a kilo.
Half a kilo.
Ah, there you are. So no more piano.
No, I can't afford it.
My poor friend, what can you afford?
You can't listen to the piano, you can't stand Jean-Pierre, you can't face people...
I should leave. Don't talk nonsense my dear.
My aunt in Rennes's invited us over.
You can go. That's OK.
That'd relieve you from us for a bit.
Yes, yes....
Well, g'day Delcommune. What's new?
OK by me
I'm always looking out for the big deal.
I take tenth-share tickets in the lottery...
On the subject of a big deal, does a Gauguin interest you?
I don't have the means.
Me neither old chap, but thanks for the opportunity.
Hullo, Delcommune ?
I thought you'd hung up.
Tell me, where did this Gauguin come from?
Someone who lives in the sticks and has to leave Paris.
The paintings are his wife's.
He's about to go to Africa.
Thanks.
What's happened? Something new... wait.
Jean-Pierre !
Come darling, practice your scales.
Still in the painting business I see.
You scared me, I thought you were going to shoot.
I am going to shoot. Too late.
You've spoken.
You don't chat with someone you're going to shoot.
Scum!
And to start with, don't burn up 2 million
with the point of your gun.
So where's my 2 million? Oh... the cost of living today...!
In your haste to get away, you took the wrong canvas.
You surely want to give me the right one. The error's corrected.
I'll miss the family heirloom.
You're just not smart enough to roll someone like me.
And my receipt? Your receipt?
I've got a receipt for an authentic Gauguin. The police'll demand you return it.
The police ? Of course !
The papers which prove the Gauguin belongs to me
are in the bank with your money.
Mr Kelber, you, an honest man,
couldn't hope for a real Gauguin for only 2 million?
So that's it... I'm the thief am I!
Come on...no carry-on and shouting! Think of the neighbours.
To get this 2 million, I had to borrow from neighbours...
...I sold my car... my wife's jewellery!
I'm not surprised, this Gauguin always has the same effect.
Once you've seen it you've gotta have it.
Scum! You won't take it with you
to heaven!
My friend Claude Watroff, a sound painter, as you've been able to judge.
The least of his paintings,
that look like a Gauguin are worth 2 million.
Who's this guy?
Monsieur Kelber.
A good client. Something gone wrong?
Yes and no.
That depends on him. What do you expect?
To annoy the hell out of you to the end.
I'll alert all the experts, dealers and collectors,
that a gutter rat tries to sell a fake Gauguin
after showing a real one! You think you're so smart?
Poor guys! You took it anyway, didn't you?
Your fake didn't fool an expert 5 minutes.
I've studied your dirty copy very carefully. I know it by heart.
The workmanship isn't too bad.
Thank you!
But the 'antiquing' is pathetic.
I would have seen it if I hadn't been rushed.
It was one of a number.
I understand. You've got the patter down pat.
A poor fool is more reassuring than a clever man.
You flatter yourself.
You don't even know that a painting shows its age.
A canvas painted in 1891 is 65 years old.
I f you copy it on canvas made today,
you're up the creek.
Aged canvas, changes the aspect, the consistency,
of colour. And the painting isn't only dirty,
but hardened, faded, cracked in places.
You know what the expert did?
He gently forced a pin into the paint.
It went in like butter.
If it'd been an old painting, it would've cracked.
Well...
He knows a thing or two. And the ultraviolet tests?
You know what your partner's done before copying the Gauguin?
Redrawing using a grid.
On the brand-new canvas.
Using charcoal.
Something to cheer about!
However with fake Vermeers... They've been churned out for 350 years.
If there's a god of forgers, it's Vermeer.
So it can be done?
With experience.
Do you have this experience?
The real Gauguin that you must have lifted from I don't know where...
...must be listed with Interpol. I'm sorry, but it does belong to me.
It really is a family heirloom.
My maternal grandmother bought it for 800 francs in 1891,
at a sale at the Hôtel Drouot. I've got all the documentation.
Bravo !
And is the artist capable of a bit of work?
Painting...without drawing first?
Him?...he's an angel.
Well, I think that's good.
It IS good! ---
There's nothing more to say...it's good!
Viviane, come and see.
Tell me it's good.
It's good.
Yeah, you're like everyone else..you don't get it.
If it makes you happy... ...it makes me happy!
They all treat me the same as Van Gogh!
Treat you how?
With contempt.
When I'm dead, they'll leap on my work
like crows scavenging ruins. They're all the same.
All the same.
Meantime I go hungry.
Oh, I think I left something on the stove.
You like some well-cooked noodles?
I don't care! Just as well!
By the way, what about your wife? Which one?
The blond at Vaucresson.
Rented...like the house.
You do take care of the details.
Is your painter just as meticulous?
Oh, he's an artist...
Top of the world one day, nothing the next.
He must be flattered... they're all the same.
'bye!
'Morning, Claude. Is Viviane here?
Yes, but I'm hiding... I'm in the nude!
You look depressed.
He's a manic-depressive! Shut ya yapping!
If you don't mind, turn your back.
Who says I wouldn't like it?
You'd be the first.
It just needs a dealer to launch a painter.
You've got a gallery? It's waiting for you, my boy.
You having me on?
- As luck would have it... in this studio, thanks to me,
a new Gauguin meets his Ambroise Vollard.
Have you got 20 canvases? I can have them very quickly.
Easy!... What about publicity ? Hell, it's gonna cost money.
Sell your "Gauguin"! Gotta do that first,
yours is unsaleable. Compare your brush strokes
to Gauguin's.
The curve of the ear,
You've gone over and over. Gauguin used a single stroke.
The nose must come forward. It'll happen!
Microphotography'll expose the copy.
So what should I do?
Learn. Spend hours repeating every brush stroke.
You've got to adopt the same style instinctively,
same colour, same thickness. When you have it,
I'll tell you the rest. That'll take long?
That'll depend on him.
What's a Gauguin worth?
That depends on the potential client.
In any case, divided by three isn't it?
You don't need to ask that. I still want to ask it.
- Viviane, this is Monsieur Kelber.
Madame. Monsieur.
My dear Claude... for you to play with now.
There's 25 thousand for expenses.
Fifty thousand.
Come on Lacroix.
Leave that, there's lot's of work to be done.
Stop him drinking.
'Bye, see you soon.
What'd he say?
You're not to drink. OK, we'll party.
This all that's left? Yes.
Go down and get 2 white and a red.
That'll be bad for you ! I'm going to paint them, not drink them!
Not dressed like this! They're used to it !
In a dressing gown!
Aren't you happy?
Look at the water, look at the colours.
I don't believe I have the right to paint them any more.
What nonsense!
Viviane. What's an artist?
Someone who's been given a wonderful and fragile gift.
If he's sincere, he keeps it.
If he cheats, he goes back to being an ordinary man.
You'll never be that. If I at at least sold my work.
When Kelber puts on your exhibition, you'll be famous.
My energy
will've left me. Give up doing Lacroix's stuff.
I should.
If you aren't disgusted by either overcooked noodles...
or a slut like me...
You!....I adore you! Darling!
But what sort of life'll I give you!
But then, we don't give a damn!
- Viviane!...
Hey, Viviane !
...it's five o'clock! Yes, Papa !
Thanks!
Lacroix and Kelber are waiting for you.
You should ask them for some dough.
Again?! Yes, again...
A pretty scene... crisis of conscience on the water.
But all the same I'd rather be someone else.
Three certificates of authenticity.
One for Lauer, one for Meillac, and one for Weil. Well done!
Why not Martinaud?
You kidding? He's seen the fake... he won't be around any more.
Fair enough.
The others have all praised the Gauguin.
Our 3 perfect copies'll fly out the door.
At the same time? It's the best way to do it.
The buyers won't get a chance to find out
there's another example besides theirs.
So long as he's not totally sloshed.
Why? Does he drink too much? Far too much.
G'day!
Hi!
You call this working?
I have to rest a bit... I get forger's-cramp!
Shout it from the roof-tops!
It's coming, it's coming. Not there yet but getting there.
Not if you keep taking away the original every 5 minutes.
I've brought it back. I don't need it any more.
I even cleaned it.
There.
That's all?
I have to buy expertise
and pay Monsieur Kelber's butcher. If this keeps up, I'll be cleaned out.
See here around the eye,
this twisted brush stroke, it doesn't seem much,
but it looks uncomfortable... I understand.
OK old boy, get to work.
When you've pissed off out of here.
You looking for something there?
Canvases sized 40 x 65.
You at least know what you want!
I've already got the frames.
The small Corot perhaps?
No, too expensive.
Hey. What?
I'll take this.
That's a good idea.
This too.
They go well together. A bit smaller.
I saw you arriving by taxi.
It's slow, but at least regular.
But you...you're most irregular.
Keep up all that gossip and you'll have to squeeze it out of me.
A slow settlement is at least better than wasting time in court.
OK...'til next month then!
Quiet!
Is that you?
For heaven's sake stop that piano!
Jean-Pierre, stop playing.
That boy's not allowed to breathe.
Here's a 1000 francs...take him to the movies so I don't have to listen to him.
Jean-Pierre, put on your hat and bring my handbag.
What are you doing?
I realised something...
canvases sell better without paint on them.
I understand: mind your own business.
Listen Clara, I can't explain my methods in 5 minutes.
That's OK...I'll leave you be.
Sweetheart, I still have worries, but I AM trying to get us out of it.
I'll explain later.
Why not now? What's the difference.
I know...but I can't tell you about anything just yet.
Or rather, about one thing.
I love you darling, I love you.
So we're going for a walk?
Say thanks to Papa for shouting us to a movie.
Enjoy yourselves.
Your problems are over.
Some canvases of the period. You can't touch them before I say so.
You listening Viviane?
I'll put them away.
You're can certainly take your canvases off.
I'm bored stiff with Gauguin and his phiz!
Don't just look at that one... look at them all!
When I turn my back I can feel them looking at me.
That's a good sign. It shows they're coming on!
D'you know what I read in their eyes?
That I'm a scum!
I'm off.
Lacroix's waiting for me... relax, you're tired it's nothing to get upset about.
Stop him drinking. Oh, you... phooey!
I'm disgusting.
Satisfied? this little collection amuse you?
Delighted!
So much the better, I got some bad news.
More money? Console yourself it was mine.
As you wish.
We can compete on equal footing with the experts.
If that head-case wants to do it.
He'll do it. There's time.
Lacroix ?
It's me. It's Viviane, come quickly.
I couldn't stop him drinking. He's wrecking the old canvases.
I'm on my way.
What's up?
Watroff's drunk... and wrecking the old canvases.
Let's go.
So?
He did it while I was out. He was like a madman.
He's calmed down.
I've had it with you all, Gauguin too!
I'll paint and I'll drink when I want to!
If you don't like it, you can fuck off!
Say, isn't this terrific? Isn't it really good?
Sensational.
That bastard! If he didn't drink so much we'd be getting there fast.
And he wouldn't have brought it off !
It's all there: the scratches, the shades
I aged it in a week. So, show the collectors?
I've got one of them jumping up and down at Boston Airport!
When I came back from the war, I had virtually nothing.
Except for this little family heirloom... a Gauguin.
I didn't yet know how I could use it...
until I met...
Watroff... he was a buddy from high-school, he was on the skids,
a drunk, painting for peanuts.
Meeting him gave me the idea...
of developing the Gauguin,
and getting him to do the copies.
- meanwhile we'd add 70 years to this 8-day old painting,
while Lacroix, in a vein of confidence, told me the story of his life.
In brief, he had made a fake of his Gauguin and made a forger of his friend.
My name is Harrison. I got your cable, here I am.
You were quick. I wanted to get here on the 1st.
Where is this Gauguin?
This way.
It's marvellous !
How did you find it?
In an attic... ...like all treasures.
What patina! What colour!
This will be the pearl of my collection.
My only regret: to see it leave France.
Ah ! My friend, at my place it will find a Van Gogh.
There... the certificate of authenticity.
Oh, the certificate. Thank you, my eyes sufficed.
If I make a cheque on Paris ?
Yes if you wish, Mr Harrison.
You asked 10 million. I don't haggle, that's petty.
That's nice.
You're taking it back right away?
Yes, I'm getting the plane back very soon. Thanks
Shall I pack it for you? No, I have a car there.
Henri ?
Merci! Nothing!
Oh yes, thanks for contacting me.
Au revoir. Goodbye.
Au revoir.
That's it.
I got my 10 million.
Stop that and listen to the speaker!
I'm a scum.
It's not true that I inherited some money.
it's a sale. Sit down!
Bravo! Who was the buyer?
I'm not a failure like you,
but the leader of a new school, "Imitative art".
A painter who sells himself!
Stop squeezing my hand! Gauguin spat in my face!
What was HE doing here?
You know how much a Gauguin is worth?
6 million.
It's worth at least 10.
10 ? Yes.
10! And the rest ? For the dealers.
The sharks who run artists ragged!
While Gauguin starved.
Gauguin...I know him...he's a buddy.
He's a friend, a brother you don't leave. Listen what he writes.
Oh...it's beautiful!
"Got nothing from Vollard,
"and the Tahiti mail won't be back for 2 months.
"Until then, I'll get my bread on credit from the Chinese.
"no money in the house."
Tahiti would've been beautiful.
To Martinique, Martinique...
It's so chic.. .
No money...you hear me?
And I get drunk on HIS dough!
Claude, go and lie down. First I gotta say sorry.
Sorry, Gauguin !
I'll start over!
Be nice and clear the sofa.
What've you done to Gauguin?
He's dead. You didn't kill him?...no.
Not killed...sold him out...
like Judas.
What's happening?
He doesn't seem well. ---
Kids, please excuse me, I don't want to chase you out,
but he'll be better alone. Can I help you clean up?
No thanks, I'm used to it.
Shame...we had fun though. Really? That wasn't so funny.
If you need me, call me.
Stupid dope ! You wanna get us all arrested?
Claude, you can hear me?
You won't wake him up.
I've gotta talk to him, it's urgent, Kelber sent me.
Some ammonia ? Good idea.
So, this ammonia?
I've got some ..but where... that's the question.
That's not it? Don't joke!
That's acid to unblock the sink.
Ah ! Here it is.
I got a headache.
Listen, you drunkard...!...
Your public confession was very moving. You read Dostoyevski?
Lemme alone!
Kelber might be pleased with you...
...but what happened here?
Now you mess up the eyes?
You're frightened of him looking at you?
Yes...that's it... he's remorseful!
With the 2 million he earned, the gent's buying himself a concience.
What'll you do...cursed with all that money?
Put on nightly feasts for the local destitutes?
If I were you I'd have a mass said for Gauguin's soul...
...and for yours at the same time.
Because we've got to make you see reason.
It's the soul of a petty thief.
Fuck off!
Wake up to yourself, Claude!
We're all in the same boat... and we can't let you sink it!
Have a good sleep, set yourself to getting back to work...
and fix up Gauguin to look you in the eye.
Shut up!
And then...
...don't feel shamed by him.
Your the clever one.
- Claude !
Get out.
I warned you, Viviane.
You see where this is leading?
Today, he no longer recognizes his friends.
Tommorrow he'll be seeing rats gnawing at him.
Tomorrow afternoon, Sainte Anne asylum.
Stop him drinking.
- Watroff did in fact make 2 more excellent copies of the Gauguin,
though not without pain.
He was able to appease his scruples
and control his drinking to get the result.
Looking back on it, he was certainly cheated,
but the brute deserved it.
He didn't have the right to get drunk at that time.
There!
That makes 150.
-Pay you tomorrow. Of course my beauty, of course.
So, Monsieur Kelber...
A bit of lamb? It's as tender as my thigh.
And so... there!... the last of your lolly.
Oh, it wasn't so urgent!
If it' a bother... No, it's fine.
Good...you must tell me...
The deal wasn't as quick as you said it'd be,
but in the end... I've done very well anyway!
Yes, a real miracle.
If you get another one, I'm at your service.
Oh, Bertrand, you're too good, I'd like to eat you up!
Marc, Jean-Pierre came 3rd.
Oh, bravo !
Hop out, I'll put it away.
Thanks...that'd be nice.
Jean-Pierre, stay in the car with Papa.
A little lamb, Madame Kelber ? It's as tender as my heart!
That's a good idea.
Your boy came 3rd? Yes, out of 40.
Ah, ah ! I see he's his father's son!
Dogs don't make cats, eh?
You're leaving?
Like every Saturday.
I didn't know.
My father has a bistro along the Seine.
Sundays he needs help. And Claude ?
TThose two always argue. Best he stays here.
He won't lose any time!
When do you get back? Monday morning.
Claude's gone to Kelber's. The gallery?
Probably. What's he doing down there?
How would I know? Wait if you're going there...
Lacroix! It's no problem... it's not heavy!
Keep your voice down, my wife's here . What are you doing...screwing me?
6 million for a Gauguin, whadda you take me for?
6 million... and then some...a lot! I know it was worth at least 10.
We didn't have the luxury of being too demanding!
So maybe I'm wrong... Let's go to your bank and see your statements.
I don't like having my word questioned!
I don't like a slap in the face.
I know I'm a scoundrel, but you are too.
Two more!
Two more what? Two more scoundrels!
What's up with him? He claims he's been swindled.
Are you crazy enough to risk exposure here?
Shut it...! dear old school-chum... ...you're in it with him to fleece me.
Ah... that's the way it is...
That's the way it is and I'll get you.
I've done nothing wrong.
I've been doing unsaleable Gauguin copies as a form of painting-technique training.
I haven't antiqued them or signed them... I'm innocent.
He won't let us explain ourselves
You gonna start with your confessions again?
Let's suppose I got the accounts wrong,
Come off it!
that given my risks and Lacroix's expenses,
I figured a three-way split was not equitable.
After all, he's worked too.
Admit... how much 've you screwed me for?
We could try and adjust his share to...say......
two-million-five. Mm?
3 million.
You pair of scumbags!
I need a drink. I've had you two!
Listen carefully. I don't want 3 million,
I want 4 !
Shut up! Your not being fair.
It's an adjustment to punish you for screwing me.
- Claude ! Shut up you lying swindler!
Gotta get hold of the copy, quick-smart.
It'll be the last, I've got one certificate left.
Got a client?
A Brazilian who writes me every 8 days.
And afterwards ? Afterwards?
You sell the real one, that'll be easier.
Won't need Claude any more.
Thank God for that! Jean-Pierre!
But how to keep him quiet?
Your scales darling. It's in his interest.
When he drinks, he talks too much.
The other evening with his buddies, he gave a full-blown speech.
We need to shut him up.
Just what I was thinking.
Oh no...not that! ---
No other way. Anything but that!
I'm thinking about your situation. ---
Your wife...your boy.
You've earned the right to a peaceful life.
We gotta find another way.
Within 8 days we'd worked out a watertight alibi...
...but not so good that it LOOKED like an alibi.
It was enough to see a show that Lacroix and I had already seen.
We went back there together Saturday evening,
while Viviane was helping her parents in their bistro.
Two stalls please Mademoiselle.
Funny how your nails are the same colour as the tickets.
Is that to be stylish?
Thanks.
Has the main feature started? Yes, Monsieur, 10 minutes ago.
How come is it nine o'clock already? It's just only five past nine.
Who's there? Open the door, it's us!
I'm asleep.
Open up, it's us!
- Coming.
Do we have to show our credentials? You wouldn't pass!
Viviane's not here? Saturdays,
she's at her father's place. She'll miss the party.
What party?
Work's finished, time to toast success.
Bravo! Now he's started to print money!
And my dough?
It's here.
This is what we destroy ourselves for.
Come on... no black thoughts.
To the health of the millionaire!
Now that it's finished, I have the right to drink!
You weren't expecting us, were you. I was getting bored without you.
What's up with Kelber ? He's got an odd look.
Don't take any notice.
My millions are stuck in his craw?
Hey... little new-age Vollard !
When's my exhibition happening?
When you're ready.
I'll never be ready. You'll live off your means!
That's it.
To millionairs !
You've never asked me why I drink.
Because one day, I showed my work to Matisse.
He was very frank.
He told me "it's rubbish my boy, find another profession".
I didn't want to hear it. So I get drunk not to hear it.
Poor guy!
The moment we've been waiting for.
Help me get him onto the sofa.
Grab your millions... that'll buck you up!
Your gloves.
Maybe he won't talk.
He'll talk for sure.
He's right-handed.
The right temple.
This is exactly where to point it.
Whatta you up to?
I wanted to sit down, but you've taken all the places.
Sit down.
Let's go.
Wait, I'm going to try
something else.
I can't...I don't have the strength.
You know what to expect if he talks?
He won't talk.
You'll take the risk?
Go on...wrap up the paintings.
What are you doing?
A drunk'll drink anything.
But it's acid.
Make him drink it.
No.
So...by the grace of God...
Take off your gloves.
Claude.
Hullo, Claude !
Feeling better?
Good...so
To us!
Stop me from drinking!
Oh, you know...
...one more or less...
Get back... he'll throw up.
What've you made me drink?
My nose's bleeding.
Be careful of stains.
It's ten past eleven.
We gotta hurry.
I don't think we've forgotten anything.
You sure?
After what we've been through together,
...you can use 'tu' with me.
'morning!
You seen Mr Watroff ? No.
He must be still asleep !
Madeleine !
What you want? Dry white.
Me too.
Fine. Small whites all 'round.
We'll find out Claude was a genius.
Exactly.
Grief's distracting you.
You'll see. Go over to the Hôtel Drouot.
To sell what?
Leave it where it is.
If it's suicide...that's what he thought of his own work.
He only left one beautiful thing behind - Viviane.
Poor Claude.
When I think it was just last Saturday he was still with us..
I saw him in the studio, taking the Gauguin.
Kelber thought he was acting strangely... I didn't notice anything.
But now I see...
...I could have done something.
What's been happening?
Have the police been? Have they questioned you?
To think that at the time I was enjoying myself at the 'Pathé Palace'.
With Kelber, besides.
It's too crazy.
You never stop.
I know very well you've killed him.
Yes, he was smitten with remorse due to me.
That's not what I meant.
What DO you mean?
Kelber didn't have the courage to come to the funeral.
Poor guy's laid up in bed.
Sick?
Oh, nothing serious. It won't stop him selling the painting.
That's good. He's expecting a Brazilian.
When?
Tomorrow or the next day. He's already booked a room at The Claridge.
Bravo !
You'll get Claude's share to the last cent.
I guarantee.
You're very honest.
Here, darling, take this.
Lacroix insists on seeing you.
Ask him in.
Come in.
How you going?
So-so.
Sweetheart, send Marguerite to get
the evening papers. It's her day off.
But I'll go. Don't tire yourself.
- So?
Your nose?
It comes back from time to time,
when I'm thinking.
You think too much.
Relax.
So how've things been going?
Very well...everyone believes suicide.
Everyone... and Viviane?
Viviane ?
She's only asked about her share.
So I needn't worry?
Tell me...
Has your Brazilian turned up?
Not yet.
I wish he'd hurry up.
Because...
Viviane's a woman.
and woman...
is weak...
- It interests me, but I don't want to go over 8 million.
- It's worth 10, you know?
- maybe, but that's a lot.
- I'll let it go for 9. Sold!
I have the certificate of authenticity.
If it's not too much of a problem,
I want an expert second opinion.
Second opinion?
If you wish.
Something wrong?
Nothing...it'll pass.
My expert in Paris is Monsieur Martinaud. D'you know him?
Martinaud ?
Yes, I know him.
Good, we'll call him.
I don't think he's in Paris at the moment.
He is...I've already made contact with him.
May I...?
Yes.
Mr Martinaud ?
It's Peradi Luna here.
When could we expect you?
11 o'clock?
Confirmed sir!
That's impossible, that's less than an hour.
We can be there in five minutes. See you.
There are no subscribers on the requested number
Please check the number in the directory.
There are no subscibers...
Hullo, Viviane ?
Do you know where Lacroix is?
I need him His number isn't answering.
I've no idea! Maybe his phone's out of order.
Run over to Chaville. Maybe he's gone off with the Gauguin.
Not funny!
I've gotta go...excuse me.
D'you want a hand?
Oh, it's you! I was just going to call you.
Exactly!... With what 'phone? The line's cut.
There's nothing more to be done except sell up..
But I haven't given you my address.
I know! 10 hours by plane, 5 days by dugout.
Oh, come on, Kelber !
OK we'll leave it... But something serious has cropped up.
What, the police?
Getting hot. I need the real Gauguin.
What's happened?
The Brazilian wants an expert opinion.
The copy won't pass.
You're sure?
No chance. He's asked for Martinaud.
And since your scam with me he's going to be wary..
Hmm... this is serious...
Because of what?
Well... because I put the real one in the luggage room at the Gare de Lyon station.
And would you believe it... I can't find the ticket.
You fucking with me? On my word.
You're fucking with me!
You can't find the ticket!
No, but hang on.
I think I remember. So tell me where it is!
In my waistcoat pocket.
Mr Kelber's late.
He's not known to be late, he's a very punctual man.
Ah! What was I saying?
Ah... the masterpiece! You got it back?
I had a joke pulled on me, and a very bad joke at that.
Ah! My compliments, old chap.
It's certainly the canvas that I admired here before.
And one of the most beautiful that I've ever seen.
If the national galleries weren't so tight-fisted, I know where it should belong.
I'll draw you up a certificate.
If you'll allow me, Monsieur Martinaud? I'm very sorry but
I'd like a VERY thorough expert appraisal.
My dear sir, I'm the just the one to do that for you.
He's right... you can never be too careful.
Maybe I'm a bit uncivilised. Not at all.
As the French say,
the Brazilians went straight from the parrot
to the gramaphone. Good grief, Kelber !
- What is it?
D'you realise
this is a fake again!
You're joking? Not at all!
Take a look for yourself.
"This painting is a fake done at the request of Messrs Kelber and Lacroix"
I swear I don't understand.
I don't understand.
I understand even less.
It's an excellent copy... I almost got taken in.
I'd been warned... that's why I was so insistent.
A blatant scam! You should lodge a complaint.
I don't understand.
Ask the woman who 'phoned me.
She must know you.
I'll be your witness.
A trial? That takes time, and I'm too busy.
As for you Kelber, I advise you to forget about doing what you do.
I'll not accept a man like you corrupting the arts community.
My canvas... I'll keep it. On principal.
Show him out.
Alors, Mr Kelber ?
You've been appraised by the expert?
Oh...so you're the woman.
What do you think? That I'd let you get away
scot-free? I don't understand.
It's quite simple. Claude didn't trust you, as you can well imagine.
You've shown him how to 'antique' a canvas. He's copied you.
You've accepted the fake as the real one.
You warned the client ?
At The Claridge. He was quick on the uptake for a foreigner.
Why?
Claude warned me that you'd kill him.
I didn't want to believe it.
We were at the cinema.
Oh yes... at the Pathé Palace.
That's right.
There was a documentary on carrier pigeons.
Exactly.
Unfortunately for you the documentary
was never screened on Saturdays.
If you're thinking of running away, I wouldn't advise the Chaville house.
Lacroix's in a bit of bother down there.
Better to go home and console your wife.
She's been very worried since my call.
Kelber !
Don't worry about the real Gauguin. It's in a safe place for a long time.
Your paper, Mr Kelber.
"THE FAKE PAINTING AFFAIR Arrest of Robert Lacroix"
Marc, someone phoned... it wasn't true was it...?
Tell me it's not true!
Marc. Don't talk about it... it's all too horrible.
It WAS true! But why?
You wouldn't live with a guy like me without money.
So! It was because you loved us! Well, not Jean-Pierre, as you well know.
Maybe that was the reason. But I wouldn't have dared do it if I'd loved him.
Let's run away! I'm cornered.
What'll happen to us? Nothing'll happen to you, so get going.
No, I'm staying! Think about the boy!
But what about you?
I don't need anyone, just worry about your little Musketeer.
Listen to me! Goodbye Clara...goodbye darling !
Marc, listen to me!
Open up, police !
Subtitles: FatPlank / RLB.