My baby.
Excuse me.
Hello.
Ma'am!
Excuse me, ma'am!
What are you looking for?
Nothing.
This is my baby...
we need some air.
- Whose baby is that? - My baby.
He needs his room.
You're hurting me and making him cry.
Come with me.
- I'm coming. - Come on!
The room's here.
Just come along quietly with your baby.
The role of her life
hello.
- I'm frederic. - Claire.
Welcome, claire.
- Hi, claire. Everything okay? - Fine.
You met fred?
Can you give me the rent? I'm almost overdrawn.
Sure. I keep ordering a checkbook.
I don't know what the problem is. But as soon as i can, i'll pay you.
He's adorable. A philosophy teacher.
Well, teacher or no teacher,
tomorrow i come home when i want.
I'm not spending my nights out.
But it was just this once. Thanks.
Then cover it with moss.
This one needs some more pruning.
Excuse me.
Am i disturbing you?
No, come in.
This may sound stupid, but...
i have a ficus at home that's been shedding its leaves.
They started turning yellow and falling off.
Sorry, you must get hounded with questions...
it's okay. Go ahead.
So i moved it to another room but i wonder...
where?
At the end of the hall.
That's it. I bet it felt punished.
Really?
- A ficus is very sensitive. - Oh, right.
Seriously. Try giving it some good compost. Moist is good.
'Bye.
Am i intruding?
No, we were discussing my hibiscus... my ficus.
Why'd i say hibiscus?
You forgot this last night.
So moist compost. Thanks.
"Instinctively
"she reviewed some of the things she had lost in life.
"Her baptism necklace
"which had vanished mysteriously.
"Her canary cage...
am i disturbing you?
Not at all.
This needs rewriting for tomorrow, if you can find time.
Sure. Excuse me.
Hang on a sec.
There's no problem for tomorrow.
Thursday and friday will be calmer. So you can stay home.
Yes, luis.
You must be kidding.
Yes, i'm mad! Last night you swore it was the last time.
I don't care. It's not my problem if frederic lives in the suburbs.
It's my place. I'll come home when i want to.
You figure it out. I'll be home at 7:30.
Claire!
Do you have a car?
Does it run all right?
It's not too...
it's an old renault.
Would you mind dropping her off?
So what good's your taxi service?
- Not at all. - You're doing me a favor.
Let's go.
- I'll get my keys. - You do that.
Excuse me.
Someone's giving you a lift.
She's coming.
Don't worry. Aline's our best writer.
It's all a misunderstanding.
She does all our special issues and never had a problem.
- Everything will work out fine. - And the person taking me home?
Here she is. Claire rocher.
- I'm late. Can we go? - Sure.
It's funny, i saw your last film two days ago.
I thought you were really good.
Thanks. That's sweet.
The scene where you steal the baby was really...
it was so believable.
I mean, you were really so moving.
Thank you.
Laurent... it's elisabeth.
I just got done.
She didn't get a word i said.
That aline-what's-her-name is an idiot.
For new york? No, i'm positive.
Damn tom cruise! I'm not doing just anything because of tom cruise.
Okay. See you in a bit.
Excuse me...
what route are you taking?
I thought i'd take bd. Saint germain as far as rue st. Jacques.
Via the pantheon's better.
This area's always jammed.
I think it's moving up ahead.
Want me to try the next right?
The next right is one-way.
We're stuck on the boulevard.
Excuse me, i think i'll walk. It'll be quicker. Do you mind?
Not at all. I'm sorry.
Elisabeth becker in your jalopy?
That's incredible!
Okay, okay. It's not so...
that's all you've talked about since you got home.
Some actors must be really unbearable.
But her,
i dunno, she radiates something really human.
But tonight, she was really in a hurry.
Luis, didn't you buy more?
I went out to get some but i was short of cash.
I still have problems with my credit card and stuff.
It's always one thing or another with you.
You scared me.
Sorry, this elevator is unpredictable.
I'm sorry about the other night.
I got there on time, after all.
Whenever i run into a snag, i go nuts.
It was my fault, too. Taking bd st. Germain was...
you reading that?
- I love that book. - So do i.
I read it when i was 20. I'm a slow reader but that book...
i read it in one night. I couldn't put it down.
I even memorized passages.
There's one at the end...
"the two young women
"judged society all the more haughtily..."
"the two young women regarded..."
"...regarded society all the more haughtily..."
how does it go again?
"...since they were at the bottom."
That's it.
"Misjudged women avenge the humility of their position
"by the haughtiness of their gaze."
I did my thesis on the representation of women
among 19th century british women writers.
Apart from that, you a journalist?
Yes. Well, somewhat... let's just say,
i freelance. I transcribe...
no, allow me. What will you have?
That's sweet of you. A coffee.
I transcribe aline's interrogations...
i mean interviews.
No, call it an interrogation.
You told me becker was here. She fall down the stairs?
Stop. She's right behind you.
I believe we have an appointment.
What was your name again?
Claire rocher.
See you around.
My father?
He was a blue-collar worker in a printing press.
I used to go see him after school.
It was in a sort of industrial park, near a "mammoth."
Remember them?
They're gone now.
Funny idea calling a supermarket chain "mammoth."
Interesting, isn't this?
Your taxi's here, miss becker.
So that's it. Now i stay in luxury hotels.
But i always feel out of place.
I've been spouting platitudes for hours. How pretty!
- Mind if we take a look? - Not at all.
I have a big balcony, but barely a geranium.
You do nice work.
I have a big balcony with absolutely nothing on it.
So...
i was wondering if...
are you there?
I'm listening.
If you could come take a look.
Stop right there. I can't help you.
I'm snowed under and i have another job after this. Sorry.
The ficus doing okay?
I don't like your tone.
I didn't use any tone.
Oh, really?
Look, it's a shame. Maybe you can...
it's okay. Drop it. I know his type by heart.
- You know him? - Just by sight.
You nuts? Know who that was?
Oh, aline...
i'm really sorry about what happened.
Don't worry.
On the contrary, it's fine. I even feel liberated.
I could never have worked with a woman like that.
I have too much character.
But as for you, you don't look it, but...
no, honest, i didn't do anything special. Really.
I'm joking. Just joking.
I just ran into elisabeth. She's delighted. Congratulations.
Really, really good.
You wanted to see me?
She wants to see a first draft thursday.
Do you have time to look it over?
Have you finished it?
- Let's wait until you finish. - Okay, thanks.
You okay? I got carried away. I'm sorry.
- Did i get you in trouble? - Not at all.
She walks in like a perfect stranger
yet expects you to kowtow. I can't deal with it.
That's beautiful. Can i take a look, sir?
Call me mathias.
My big family.
Not in their best form. It was late february.
So that's your girlfriend there?
I mean, usually, people put up photos of their lovers.
To tell the truth, trees are simpler.
See you around.
Cut!
Let's do another take, please.
- Can we talk a minute? - After this.
Right now, please.
You can see we're working.
Can't you stop a minute?
Wait.
Forget it.
It's really minor. Just a couple of small gestures.
Excuse me.
He's on our back every day now.
- Arnaud! What are you doing? - I'm splitting.
What is it now?
I don't believe this. Shit!
You okay? Were you watching?
What's he doing?
He's walking back, that's what.
They said five minutes.
Should i go after him?
It's silly. You just got here.
- Would you like a lift back? - Who are you?
My name's claire. I'm working with elisabeth on an interview.
It's not safe being out here like this.
It's cold. It's the middle of nowhere. I can drop you off.
Maria, would you mind starting with my room?
I have a friend sleeping in the back bedroom.
All right.
Funny, you always say "my room."
You said to maria: "Start with my room."
That's highly revealing.
So maybe i said "my room."
Not maybe.
You say it all the time.
You'll be moody the whole time he's here?
I'm in a fine mood.
He just arrived from cuba and he's broke.
So why can't he stay a few nights?
I don't mind.
Evenings with a half-naked cuban ogling you...
that's cool.
I'll take this down.
Some coffee?
No, thanks.
I meant to ask: What do you call that little red shrub?
A rosebush.
I know that! I mean next to it,
with the red flowers.
A japanese camellia.
That's the pricey one.
But it's very pretty.
It will look nice.
It's hard to imagine right now, but still.
It will look nice.
Can you listen a second?
Even if i seem unbearable. Pretend.
Go ahead. I'm listening.
Anyone ever tell you how arrogant you are?
People have said i'm childish,
mule-headed,
and i have a big appetite.
When i water them, i'll have to think of you.
I have an appointment with elisabeth becker at 6.
Please come in.
She told me. She'll be a bit late, as usual.
But it's never her fault.
This way.
Sit down. Give me your coat.
- Tea? Coffee? - No thanks.
Have a seat.
You okay?
Isn't this beautiful!
- Beautiful, isn't it? - It's incredible.
Is it going well? She's not on your back too much?
No, it's going pretty well.
I feel responsible. I pushed you into this.
It's okay. It'd be stupid to turn down $15,000.
Think of it as a revolutionary tax.
Maybe we can go for coffee some time?
Give me your number.
Excuse me.
Here already? Just give me a minute.
You're the journalist. Laurent bompard.
Listen to this, laurent.
"20 years after, elisabeth movingly recalls the smell...
"of the print shop her father worked in.
"She would visit him after school. One night,
"a face appeared in thousands of copies.
"The date: May 29, 1982.
"Romy schneider has just died tragically.
"It would mark the future actress."
I never said that.
Sure, but i embroidered a bit.
I thought it too personal to relate your parents' life.
- That's for you to decide. - It suits me fine.
- Maybe i shouldn't have... - i like it.
It's dramatic, meaningless, it will sell.
Come with us to see "the three sisters"?
I'm supposed to see a friend.
I'll put them here.
Did i hurt you with my comment on your piece? It's fine.
Not at all.
Not bad. Turn around.
It looks fine. You should do something with your hair.
I won't be in your way at the theater?
Not at all.
If you like it, it's yours.
I want to.
I don't know what to say.
It's felicie's husband. The baby's arrived.
Everything okay? How did it go?
And how's felicie?
I can't hear you.
I can't hear a thing.
I'll call you back later. Love to the three of you!
A friend just had a baby.
By the way, thanks for driving arnaud.
Why do i always end up with jealous guys? I hate it!
So do i. Jealousy's awful.
"Who were you with?"
"If you slept at home, why is your toothbrush dry?"
Got a boyfriend?
Sure. But i'm like you, i like to feel free, too.
It's a real pleasure to see you.
I saw something on tv about the play. It looks great.
It's the best show in town right now.
Excuse me a minute. There's someone i want to see.
Have you been to a play in paris before?
- This meeting was hard to set up. - But we did it.
- See you soon. - Tuesday.
Right, tuesday.
Must i do this shit interview?
The producers want it. I think it's good for the film.
And i have to put up with him for an entire lunch!
He can boast: "I lunched with elisabeth becker."
Elisabeth becker. Sometimes i can't stand that name.
Where's claire?
I dunno.
- Isn't that girl nice? - Sure. If you say so.
- What is it? - Nothing. Same old story.
You thought sophie was nice too. At first.
Excuse me a second.
Have a glass of wine with me?
No, but thanks for offering.
Can you hand me that carafe, please?
You must taste this.
Perfectly aged. It's good.
Oh, all right.
One has to ask you everything twice.
You first say no,
but with a little insistance...
it's stupid,
but i still can't manage this.
There are more practical corkscrews.
Let me help you.
How can a girl tell if a guy likes her?
I dunno, ask him.
A girl never takes the first step.
I learned that much.
And i've tested it. But i don't know how to...
i'll put her on.
We can still say hello.
Can i see you tonight?
Tonight's too complicated. But i'll call you.
I don't have time now.
I get it. So you fucked the gardener.
Don't be stupid.
For heidegger, philosophy represented
the inner meaning of our history...
hi, mathias.
Not at all.
I was between heidegger and mr. Clean.
Tonight?
Tonight i have tickets for a play.
I don't know if that's your thing.
What are we seeing?
- Hush! - I didn't say a word.
But admit it's worrying.
One retirement home brings its residents to my tree nursery.
It resembles this.
It's a show you have to reserve months in advance.
If it weren't for elisabeth, we could never see it.
Why didn't she come?
She was seeing her boyfriend, i think.
Say what you like, but i find her really generous.
- I know what you think about her... - i don't think anything.
I feel we could become good friends.
- Your girlfriend also work in trees? - Yes.
No. It's complicated.
I'm sorry.
I'm not with her anymore.
That's why i took the job for elisabeth.
Apart from the money.
I just ended a relationship,
with a doctor's wife in the south.
It lasted five years.
I looked after her kids, felix and zoe.
They'd come to the tree nursery.
She was going to leave her husband. It was a matter of days.
But then three months ago she moved back in with him.
I'll stop boring you with my stuff.
You're not boring me.
You know, one morning, you wake up, step outside,
and you realize the woman next door has gorgeous eyes.
Is that her screaming?
She's hungry.
Sure i want to see the baby, felicie.
But i really haven't had time.
I promise. As soon as i get back, i'll come see you.
For me?
Lots of love.
Oh, mom!
I'm at the airport.
I'm going to marseille. But i did tell you!
I'm not going on vacation. It's for work.
It's not the same thing! Oh, never mind.
But i told you, you can change the date of the ticket.
Arnaud's here.
I'll call you later. I have to board now.
Where is he?
Take care.
Why are you here?
Where's the asshole?
There are people around. Who are you talking about?
Who?
The guy from last night. "Eating with my agent!" yeah, right.
You go through my pockets now?
Why lie to me? Tell me. I know anyway.
Not in an airport. My plane takes off in 10 minutes.
Your plane, your appointments... there's just you.
The hell with others. You'll end up alone in your flat.
Please, arnaud, stop it.
Anyway, we'll never have that child.
Excuse me.
We're big fans of yours. Can we have an autograph?
I'm so glad to meet you. I admire your acting.
Have a nice day.
I'll return the keys to maria.
I think i'm going bonkers.
Nobody can live with a woman like you. It's impossible.
For me, at least.
Go on!
Arnaud!
She'll be back next week.
You can talk it over calmly then.
Give it some time and then you'll see.
Will you be all right?
You're the one i should ask that.
Excuse me.
He left. But he seemed calmer.
He's right.
I'll end up all alone.
I'm going to be 38. I don't have children.
And i never will.
I do stupid things.
It's so awful,
that feeling of never being able to change.
Being stuck in your own psyche.
Your what?
Your psyche.
I thought you said "sicky." I didn't understand.
Luis' sister had exactly the same problem.
For years, she and her boyfriend tried in vain.
Finally, they consulted the doctor...
i forget his name, he's in the 10th arrondissement.
Anyway, after three months, she had twins.
They all said the same thing:
"There's nothing wrong with you, no problem.
"Don't get uptight over it."
Doctors give you a lot of bullshit.
Excuse me, can you turn the heat down?
It's roasting in here, isn't it?
I wanted to tell you...
if i do this movie in spain...
i've had it on my mind a long time.
I'll really need someone around this time.
For the papers, appointments,
even reading scripts. I can't manage alone.
The pay will be good
and it'll leave time for other things.
I don't know...
writing, for instance.
"When you go away
"i can't sleep at night"
can you turn it up?
"I got a bad case of sunstroke
"a bad case of loving you
"i don't know how gotta think back
"and if i'm dreaming, too bad
"i got a bad case of sunstroke
"a bad case of loving you
"but you're not there"
if you had to, how would you describe her?
She's someone dependable, generous and demanding.
She can be brutal. But put yourself in her shoes.
I was lucky to know her before she became famous.
But now no one behaves normally with her.
How is she supposed to judge if people are sincere or not?
Were you badmouthing me?
You know, the friend arriving by train...
the one who's arriving today.
Philip found you a car. You can go pick him up.
Great, thanks.
Okay?
Everything okay?
He gets in at 4:35 pm.
- You okay? - Fine.
Had a good trip?
Just a slight delay in paris.
Shall we? The car's outside.
The weather's great. It's nice.
- Not getting out? - I have something to do.
She asked me not to say anything.
I didn't tell you, it's stupid.
Excuse me?
You looking at me?
I saw you earlier with elisabeth becker.
I'm the stills photographer. Frank debout.
You an actor too?
Not quite. I'm more the stand-in type.
You have an interesting face.
Another drink?
Sure, why not?
- I'd like a pastis. - Two.
Cheers.
So what do you do, otherwise?
It's not that i won't answer that, frank,
but i doubt it'll mesmerize you.
Sure it will.
Originally, i was a proofreader.
Nothing glamorous, but just my level.
Simple, perfectly dull, zero responsibility.
Then i met elisabeth becker. I drove her home.
She treated me like shit and we became great friends.
Which goes to show:
A star can conceal a black hole.
I also saw you in a costume movie.
You wore an amazing dress, with long hair.
And...
disappointed?
A bit, but that's okay.
Jerk!
The first time i saw you,
i had this weird impression.
As if i'd just met...
obelix in the flesh.
See what i mean?
I sure do.
You see what i'm getting at.
I remind you of obelix. I get it.
You know...
i have to get some sleep.
Me too. I'm beat.
I booked you a room next door.
Lots of crew members know arnaud.
It was awful at the airport. He mustn't know you're here.
You worked it out nicely.
I already feel like an embarrassment.
Not at all.
I just have to be careful. You can understand that?
Sure, but hiding isn't my thing.
I'm not asking you to.
Things okay?
I just took a walk.
Sorry, i'm a bit...
there's a reservation for mathias curval.
Reserved by madam becker?
- Yes, maybe. - I don't know what's with me.
I'd like a drink.
I'm in 87.
Think we can have a quick glass of champagne?
I'm sorry. The bar just closed.
Oh, please, mister!
It's a quarter to. At 2 p.m. We'll be in bed.
Impossible, but you have splits of champagne in your mini-bar.
One last stand, if you wish?
I swear, girls like those americans... 66 lbs.!
I swear, it's incredible.
So if you don't look like those girls in magazines...
isn't this your room, 87?
And if men were less stupid...
that's for sure.
I'm hot.
Maybe you should stop drinking.
I only had two pastis.
Maybe three.
I'm getting undressed. I'm too hot.
You had a fight, right?
Don't look so miserable.
You can sleep on the sofa, or even in my bed. I don't mind.
Cheers.
What an idiot i am!
I swear.
When i see what i've come to.
Not to mention my writing projects.
Only one person likes it. Not two. Luis.
I'm good for nothing.
That's the truth. For nothing and nobody.
Don't talk like that.
You're a great kid. You have lots of friends. People like you.
Sure, people like me, but nobody loves me.
It takes all kinds.
Good night.
I'd like to pay for room 87, please.
Weren't you staying until thursday?
Can i pay for it until thursday?
The room's paid for by the production.
But can't i pay anyway?
And i had champagne from the mini-bar.
What were you doing at the station?
- The guy asked me to drive him. - What guy?
I dunno, mathias-something. Get off my back!
Go on, get lost!
I've been calling your room all morning.
You were to meet elisabeth at 7.
And i don't want to be your mother.
Fuck!
Excuse me.
Anybody got a script?
- What's the problem? - It's okay.
You started nicely.
- We'll just take it again. Places! - Can i have a minute?
Sorry, i overslept.
- Why didn't you ask reception? - I set a wake-up call.
It's me. My acting is shit.
I had a bad night. I could murder this director.
Excuse me...
have you seen mathias?
- We're ready to shoot. - Just a second.
I think he left.
He left?
I don't understand. How do you know?
There was someone in the lobby this morning...
jerome, i think... who drove him to the station.
Say, elisabeth, we're ready.
- I'm waiting. - I'm coming!
I'm sorry.
Can i give you my cell phone?
Sure.
In case he calls me. Okay?
- You all right? - Sure.
Excuse me.
Anyway, it's my fault.
I invite him down and i behave like an idiot.
It's weird,
i don't know him well,
but i didn't want it to end this way.
I've got to stop thinking about it.
Still, he could've left a message.
But he didn't.
Here's the mail for elisabeth.
Hello, bertha.
Hello, nicole. Here's what you asked for.
Thanks so much. How much do i owe you?
- Nothing at all. - But i insist.
You okay?
Call laurent? It's been busy all morning.
I'll try my luck.
She's the kind of girl i need at home, with my damned backache.
Anyway,
you have to have the money.
Can you rub some lotion on me, honey?
You hurt yourself?
Go easy. I was in real pain last night.
I think it's in a knot.
Say what you will, i liked arnaud.
Okay, so he was a bit temperamental.
But it takes two to tangle.
She's leaving arnaud?
- But he's a nice boy. - Oh, grandma!
You ought to call him.
It's not the first time. What's your shrink say?
She costs a bundle, and for what?
- Mom, please! - What did i say?
I didn't say a thing.
I can't talk to her anymore.
We're not on the same wavelength.
It's incredible.
- How can i help? - It's the generation gap.
She was rubbing her back, then stormed out.
Do you mind?
Elisabeth's been very edgy lately. Because of that boy?
I don't know.
My daughter falls in love like a teenager.
Just like her father.
I want her to tell me why she stormed out like that.
She didn't finish. Do you mind?
This is where it hurts most.
Sure it's that shoulder?
I know where it hurts me, mom.
You ordered the taxi for a quarter to?
Even 20 to, to be sure.
We've got plenty of time.
I'll watch for him from the balcony.
Felicie called again.
- May i see you a minute? - Can i call you a taxi?
Not at all. When i come here, i love to walk. This city's great.
See you soon.
Of course, he'll come on to you.
Oh, boy.
What is it exactly that you do with elisabeth becker?
Lots of stuff.
I read scripts she gets, i advise her a bit.
Stuff like that.
Say, she really trusts you.
Sure, we get along well.
Tell them about your stories.
Will three bottles do?
You're so tense.
I don't think three's enough. Why not get a few more?
What's this about stories?
It's becker's agent, laurent.
He's showing claire's stories to a publisher.
Anyway, it'll never work.
Luis, instead of talking nonsense, hand me the pasta.
Why this pasta?
It's fine.
Fresh pasta is better.
- The italian downstairs is open. - You're right.
This actress has addled your brains!
We want to make a good dinner. What's the connection?
Mind running down to the store?
Get more wine while you're at it. It won't be wasted.
- I'm late. - No, you're not.
A gift for luis. It's his birthday.
- You didn't tell me. - I didn't want to bother you.
Let me introduce you: Fred...
luis's friend.
Managed to park?
I don't have a car.
Luis, who shares my apartment.
Thanks, you shouldn't have. It's enough your being here.
You remember frank.
Helen, my childhood friend.
Can i take your coat, elisabeth?
Can i take a picture? I know it's goofy.
Let's see claire.
One more. Take us together?
Ready?
That's enough. Let's go.
Great.
Get off her!
My room. The desk where i write. Or try to, anyway.
I haven't had a chance to read your work but...
no problemo. It's not...
it's not that i'm not interested,
i just need the time to read.
I really wanted to thank you...
it's a real pleasure to work with you.
For me, too.
And now i have no excuse not to write.
- I'd like a drink. - Sure. Everything's next door.
It's your turn, ma'am.
- Call me elisabeth. - Really?
Your turn, elisabeth.
- S... - a...
so, what was it?
Nothing. I don't know.
She usually loves sleeping at her friend's.
She's never done this.
Have any kids?
So it was s-a-l... salt lake!
My turn: M.
- U. - L.
- Mulatto. - Right.
Got a cigarette?
- I'll get you a pack. - Just one.
- One was enough. - I have a carton.
That way, you won't keep bumming mine.
My turn?
Excuse me.
Happy birthday. We brought fruit jellies.
Hi, sandrine.
This is sherazade, sandrine...
hi, florette.
Happy birthday.
We haven't met.
We haven't met either.
I'll help out.
I'm a real fan of yours.
I'm a fan too.
It's a story of a guy
who ends up killing his father.
Told like that, it's not clear.
It's a bit sad, it's not a happy story.
So he falls in love with a girl.
That adds an upbeat side, otherwise it's too sad.
He falls in love, then he finds the father.
His, not hers.
I'll wait.
I'm sorry. I wasn't expecting all these people.
I'm tired, anyway. I can't find my coat.
I put it there.
There was such a mess.
- Want a ride home? - I'm calling a cab.
7 rue bichat, 10th arrondissement.
It wasn't too unbearable?
No, it was fun. See you tomorrow.
Tomorrow at 10.
I'll be right out.
- What's claire up to? - She's talking with brunel.
Talking with brunel!
She's friends with everyone.
He likes her stories. That's good.
Yes, good. Very good.
She gets on my nerves.
Last night i thought i'd go mad.
She kept staring at me.
Her bedroom gave me the jitters.
Photos of me all over!
She admires you. You knew that.
She's nice. She just lacks self-confidence.
It's not easy for her.
- Or me. - I thought you liked her.
That's just it.
That's what bugs me.
I thought she was different.
I'm not used to having people read it,
so i was a bit nervous...
but didn't you find the first stories a bit risque?
It didn't bother me.
Anyhow, they still need work.
Especially andree's homecoming.
Don't touch andre. He's fine as he is.
But andree's a woman.
Sure, the character of andree.
You have a touch, a style. It's instantly recognizable.
But we only publish well-known writers' short stories.
It's absurd, but...
i say, make way for writers like you.
If you'd already written a book...
say, like a biography of elisabeth.
There are none. Not one.
She's not wild about the idea.
But if it was by someone she trusts...
can we change the subject?
Can i see you a minute?
Sure.
It's nothing, but i want to get it off my chest.
I hate letting things build up.
Sure, tell me, please.
It's about last night.
I'm sorry, i didn't expect all those people to turn up...
that's not it.
It's just that
i have a problem with familiarity.
Familiarity?
You know, that joke about the cigarettes.
"That way, you won't keep bumming mine."
It's not the kind of humor i appreciate.
It's being too familiar.
I understand. I didn't realize it. I'm sorry.
I understand. You were right to bring it up.
It's nothing, but i wanted to let you know.
Sure.
You were reluctant, but it's not bad.
But here i look 110 years old!
Why not 150?
- You have a great expression there. - I agree.
She always mentions her father, not me.
Can i have some coffee?
A lovely smile. The light's nice.
Holy shit!
And the woman at the nursery?
What woman? Oh, manu?
She didn't introduce herself?
With strangers, she barks.
- Who is she? - My kid sister.
She and jean are doing a little show tonight.
If it's not your thing, i can cancel.
It's just a little show.
It's a nice melody.
Richard strauss. I think it's terrific.
Strauss? Funny, it doesn't sound like him.
No, the steel prawns band. I read the wrong line.
"If you could like yourself a little more..."
"you yourself would become
"a sublime little sun."
For you.
Thanks so much.
It's not much, but the olive oil's delicious.
I wanted to say i'm really sorry.
- What for? - The night i got familiar.
It's no big deal. I told you to get it off my chest.
How did you like the script?
I like it.
But the moment the male character reappears suddenly is a bit...
and my having a 20-year-old son didn't...
tell jorge what you just told me.
It was just an impression.
Sleep well?
I'll do it.
Let me, sir.
Some orange juice?
Perfect.
You work here now?
As you see.
Otherwise...?
Everything okay?
Actually, not bad.
Your trees growing?
They're growing.
Tell my banker she'll have the check this week.
How? I'll manage somehow.
I'm not reckless. Get off my back!
I gotta go now.
I'll think about the job and call you back.
See you later.
Something wrong?
Talking to me today?
Your friend seemed really upset.
It's a possible contract down south.
That's good. I was thinking: He's neglecting his trees.
Sure, it's a slow period right now.
Nice watch!
I'd like to read your stories.
You'd better go home and change.
Tonight's not good for me.
You have to come with us.
Right, elisabeth?
Sure. Come if you want.
Thanks, but i'm busy tonight.
Let's finish this game?
No, i have a few more things to do.
The american didn't keep you on too long.
She already had the answers to her questions.
Tomorrow after your massage you can go see felicie.
Your appointment is in her neighborhood.
I have things to do, and i don't feel like it.
Okay, sorry.
It was convenient and you said you'd wanted to go see her baby.
What about her baby?
I don't want to see her baby.
It'll bawl and i'll have to go into raptures for hours.
I don't feel like it.
I didn't ask you to organize my private life.
Okay, i'm sorry.
Could you stop being sorry every two seconds?
I feel like the queen mother.
Okay, i'm sorry.
It's true.
I can't finish a sentence without her going: "i'm sorry."
"Yes, sure. Absolutely. Great."
Those girls...!
At first, i find them adorable.
Then i realize it's because they agree with me.
It's not her business.
"Those girls."
- I forgot, she's your great pal. - You're being unfair.
I think she's sweet.
You're all on her side, but i don't give a damn.
- Then fire her. - I don't want to fire her!
It's just her yes-man attitude with me!
And i'll see the baby when i like, goddammit!
"When you meet women like andrea,
"your instinctive reaction is admiration,
"indulgence, and if you're not careful, supplication.
"Humanity seems divided into two unequal parts:
"Those whose physique, self-confidence
"and radiance make them invulnerable,
"and the vast majority of others characterized by want,
"frustration,
"the secret, vain observation of what they can never attain.
"No need to say which side i'm on.
"I belong to the kingdom of shadows."
Excuse me.
Is it really you?
I hope so.
Please to meet you. Mathias.
I've got a terrible stomach ache.
I wondered if you could do something.
Kidding aside, do people ask you for medical advice?
You are a great doctor in that tv series.
What do you do?
- I grow trees. - Trees for movies?
No, trees for trees.
Oh, trees!
That's nice.
A drink? I'm having champagne.
Want some?
You okay?
You know each other?
Yes, we do.
You know, elisabeth was my student.
In class, she only wanted to play male roles.
It's true. I really wanted to play lorenzaccio.
But you said i had to lose weight.
I never said that.
True, it was in florent's class.
It really annoyed me.
Okay, excuse me.
So how do you plant trees?
I plant seeds,
then wait for them to grow.
What kind of trees?
Is it because i know elisabeth
that you're interested in arboriculture now?
Exactly.
Luis and claire are both out. Please leave a message.
This is mathias.
Nothing special. I just felt like calling.
You might find this message weird,
but i'm a little smashed.
See you tomorrow. Take care.
I left you a message last night.
I heard it.
I don't know what i said.
I was a bit smashed.
Me, too. I've got a hangover.
What did you do?
Nothing special.
I ate out with a friend.
The restaurant wasn't bad. They had great wine.
Excuse me.
Finish your tea?
The kettle takes forever...
i'm in a bind. Maria just called. She can't come today.
I had an errand for her...
i'll do it. No problemo.
- I want to throw a party saturday. - That would be fun.
If you could go to the caterer's,
order the food and give them an advance.
Sure, no problem.
You still on for barcelona?
Sure, but since you hadn't brought it up again...
book the tickets.
Call the production. Get four seats.
Count on me. I'll do it later.
I think that five dozen will do.
No, excuse me!
Much too much. People may not like salmon...
usually, fish canapes are very popular.
Just because she doesn't like salmon
doesn't mean others won't.
You don't say!
This is our "medina" line.
The flavor is more sun-kissed, more exotic.
This one's heart of palm on cucumber slices.
Very good.
What was that remark about?
About nothing.
No, let's hear it.
I dunno, sometimes you can get very...
obsessed with her.
And she talks to you like you were her...
her what? Finish your sentences.
Don't see what i mean?
No, i don't. We're good friends.
She speaks to me normally.
We're not going to kowtow to each other.
Egg slice with a touch of saffron sauce.
It's very good.
"Obsessed with her..." that's too much!
I'll let you think it over.
I thought you'd use the time to write.
What's it to you? Have you looked at yourself?
Actually,
you just have to swallow hard when she pulls out her credit card.
Would you like to see our choice of desserts?
- Yes, gladly. - This way.
Here we have an opera cake... it's a chocolate coffee ganache.
I think your friend is...
what?
Think you're friends? Here's the truth:
She's had enough of you and your yes-man attitude.
So that's it.
Take this one, too. It's nice.
- Want a towel? - I have to get back.
An autograph, please?
I couldn't miss this chance.
I don't get it.
They goofed. There are only 3 tickets.
No, they didn't goof.
I put everything in order. I'm quitting.
Take the ones you want.
I don't understand.
It's true, i've become a yes-man.
I couldn't see it, but it's obvious.
I can see how sickening it is,
being with someone who always grovels.
"I'm sorry. So sorry, elisabeth.
"Forgive me. I'm sorry..."
i really wasn't aware of it.
I'm sorry.
There, you see?
I was looking at your photos.
You were in the center with your girlfriends.
If you could see me with mine...
always hidden behind one of them.
With you, it was practical.
Problem is, you hate that behavior.
But just try to steal some of your spotlight...
if we're too attentive, it's no good,
and if we exist just a bit, it's no good either.
I got it all wrong.
I even thought we were friends.
How stupid of me! You have no friends.
Yes, one. And you can't find an hour to go see her baby.
That's enough.
Sorry, i didn't mean to get nasty.
I'm sorry.
So am i.
- You going? - Yes, i'm going.
- You're going... - i'm leaving.
- When will i see you again? - I don't know.
We'll keep in touch. So long.
Are you gonna play all night?
Cut it out. Play with us. We just started.
I hate the game.
I spent my childhood playing it with my mom.
Hey, look.
It's elisabeth becker.
Nice dress. Looks like a lacroix.
More like a gaultier.
Hey, the guy behind her!
I saw his picture in a magazine.
The guy was a carpenter in the middle of nowhere.
One day, he gets a job on a film set, dunno what.
The "big love"...
they're engaged.
Some day i'm gonna show up here with isabelle adjani on my arm.
- You stop playing? - Nice work.
Your gardener's in his element.
Know what? He didn't deserve you.
Spend the night at my place?
I don't know.
I'd like to do some writing after dinner. We'll see.
It looks good.
Guinea fowl, vegetables.
Mathias, a friend. Frank, a friend.
What are you doing here?
I was in the neighborhood. I thought i'd say hello.
So, hello.
I'm glad to see you.
How's it going?
Not bad. I'm working a lot.
We're about to eat. I'll walk you out.
How's she doing?
She's fine.
Well, then...
what?
Let go of her! The guy's crazy!
Take it easy.
Take what easy?
Who's this clown who shows up and jumps you?
Clown yourself! You and your lousy guinea-fowl!
What is this?
Who is he? See how you grabbed you?
I don't know why.
You don't know why? Who is he?
- I don't know why he grabbed me. - And felt you up.
Lay off! I don't know why.
You don't know why? You know him, don't you?
He feels you up and i'm a jerk!
This is ridiculous.
Run along.
We can't see each other again.
It hurts too much, you understand?
See you in three weeks.
Well, what d'you know!
Remember me? I ran after you in that movie.
Bernard, right?
Bertrand, but that's okay.
- Are you okay? - Sure. This is a pleasure.
Doing another movie here?
I came to see dr. Fabre.
Congratulations.
Let me kiss you.
Excuse me.
That's great news.
- See you soon. - Sure, see you.
No need to steal babies now.
I'll go get the candles, honey.
- Everything going well, maria? - Fine.
- Where's mathias? - He went out.
- He didn't say where? - No. I don't know.
What are you doing?
Nothing.
I was just looking at you.
Where were you?
I went out for air.
You had something to tell me?
No, nothing.
See how pretty the cherry tree is?
It took well. I'm glad.
It'll be even better in a few years...
i'm very fond of you, you know.
So am i.
I have to get back.
Go on. Don't worry about me.
That's great.
My darlings.
Sorry, can we take that again?
Sorry.
I'm ready.
When will you tell him? When his son's 10 years old?
"Here, mathias, meet your baby. Sorry i took so long."
No, laurent, i told you.
I won't wait 10 years, but i can't tell him now, that's all.
I just can't.
I don't understand you.
Put yourself in his shoes.
I'm trying to.
I'm try to do the best i can.
Becoming a father affects you, but don't get sick over it.
Is it your first child?
What's he doing?
He just turned around.
"Humanity seems divided into two unequal parts:
"Those whose physique, self-confidence
"and radiance make them invulnerable,
"and the vast majority of others,
"characterized by want, frustration,
"and the secret, vain observation
"of what they can never attain.
"For 35 years, my life was a quest for the company of solar beings,
"behind whom i could hide.
"When you meet women like andrea,
"your instinctive reaction is admiration, indulgence
"and, if you're not careful, supplication.
"They may have no intrinsic merit,
"but i always end up trying curry favor,
"attract their attention.
"Sometimes, i'm dying to say to andrea:
"How about me? Look at me!
"I have something to give, i feel it.
"I'm no beauty, but i'm easy on the eyes.
"People tell me i'm charming,
"which always depresses me.
"But it would be self-deluding to think you can escape your fate,
"as if, by existing in the orbit of a radiant person,
"you finally earn a bit of this light you lack.
"We admire and seek out these strong people,
"we love them as we fear others and the contagion of misfortune.
"Never again can i meet the men
"and women who peopled my childhood,
"all good, shy, fragile ones,
"over-sensitive to the evil of the world.
"Never again.
"I hate the unfortunate."
Want a drink?
No, thanks.
That was beautiful.
It was intelligent. Profound.
It's just like you.
Thanks. It was just an excerpt.
I read it all.
Laurent gave it to me.
At least he gives me news of you.
Excuse me.
We've never met,
but i heard a few lines, i thought it was good.
By the way... excuse me.
Mathias moved back down south.
Go ahead, please.
- Can i have an autograph? - Sure, for who?
Philippe.
- Thank you. - Thank you.