UP DOWN FRAGILE
Friday, July 15th, 11:10 pm.
You're trying to fool me.
What's wrong? Can't I take a piss?
Give me the money.
What are you talking about?
I want my share Robert. We agreed half and half.
I saw what he paid you. I know my part:
One grand. You have it, so come on.
Don't touch me!
You'll get your dough but I want respect.
-I'd have paid you anyway. -Sure.
What's wrong, Ninon? Where are your manners?
-You weren't like this at first. -At first I had fun.
And you were correct.
I don't like to be fooled.
I don't need you.
You think so?
Want me to prove it?
I'll get your dough.
I want it now.
I'd have given it.
Please.
A coke and whisky. Thanks.
Yeah, things change, you see.
-No, wait. -What do you want with my girl?
-Hello. -Hello.
-An ice cream please. -Single or double?
-Double. -Double.
-What flavour? -Vanilla, chocolate.
-I have no more chocolate. -Vanilla, coffee.
-Thanks. -Thanks.
Thanks.
-See you. -See you.
Yes?
-Louise Leuven. -Of course... Hello.
Your luggage arrived, it is in your room.
-The key. -Thank you.
-And the rocking chair? -Yes.
Well, sixth floor, the lift is right there.
If you need anything just call us.
-Please call anytime. -Thank you.
It's me again, I'm still hungry.
You want a hotdog or a crepe?
A hot dog.
Well, five minutes... time to heat it.
A little mustard and it's done.
Good.
-Mr. Paul. -Good day.
How are you today?
It's been two or three days.
Where were you?
You look weak.
Haven't I met you somewhere?
I feel I know you.
You come here often?
No, I haven't met you here.
It was longer... much longer ago.
How long ago?
Your hot dog?
May I speak to Mathis Leuven?
"He's in a meeting. Is it urgent?"
Yes, pretty urgent, His daughter Louise.
-"His daughter from Paris?" -Yes, his daughter from Paris.
"Hold on, I'll connect you."
"Louise, my little angel. Where are you?
"I'm worried about you.
"Why did you leave the clinic?"
"I would have liked to be there.
Calm down, dad, I'm fine. I've rented a hotel room.
"I don't want you to live in a hotel.
No one came for you?
I don't know anyone anymore.
"And Simon? He didn't come?"
This hotel is very nice.
Simon. It's been five years.
"Come home.
With me.
So when are you coming?"
I'll stay here a bit. At least few days.
I'll meet Aunt Marthe.
"Louise, Marthe is dead.
Louise?
We didn't want to tell you. She died two years ago.
She left you her house. It's your inheritance.
I'd like you to come home."
I need some time.
To be alone. I really need some time.
"My poor darling.
These five years were the longest in my life.
The darkest.
It's so nice to hear you, my little angel.
You talk like an adult.
Take care and don't forget what Dr. Berger said."
Papa.
"Be very careful, darling."
I leave now. I call you back.
"Give me the hotel's number."
Hotel Kléber, 44057500.
"-And your room number?" -627.
Where's Aunt Marthe's house? It's been ten years.
"Call my secretary, she'll give you the details."
Hug you.
"Big hug my little one. I'll call tomorrow.
Do you need this album?
No.
I don't know what I need.
You know, I don't know who I am.
I'm an adopted girl.
When I was little I was ashamed.
I was "The adopted".
It's an ugly word: "Adopted".
It's a label.
Like orphan, a victim.
Words one never gets over.
I almost prefer "welfare case".
That's what I am.
In fact you could be my mother.
Excuse me, I don't know what got into me.
Excuse me.
Thank you. Mademoiselle Leuven?
-There is something for you. -Thank you.
Yes, I'm calling about the ad in "France Soir".
Yes.
For the sales woman job, yes.
It's already taken?
Well too bad, thank you. Goodbye.
It is hot.
"Quick n' Well?" Hello.
I'm calling about the ad in "France Soir".
Yes the ad for the delivery job.
No, but I... I could do it, yes.
I can drive a moped, yes.
I know Paris very well, yes.
For a month?
Until August 15th? That's alright.
Yes, I can come right away.
Thank you very much. See you soon.
Hello.
Do you recognize this house?
Of course I do. Why do you ask?
You look surprised.
I don't know who you are!
You aren't afraid, I hope?
No, you aren't scary at all.
It's as if time has stopped.
I remember a house full of stuff.
-As a child... -You have a good memory.
I'm not amnesic!
Look, this is a Coromandel table.
A pretty rare piece. 17, 18th century.
Marthe had two cats.
One is a music lover, likes rhythm. Have you seen him?
I've only seen you.
The neighbors give them food. The other one's pretty wild.
He hides for strangers.
It's like being in the country.
Marthe loved this one.
I dunno why.
That was her great grandfather's passion.
Octave.
He thought he was an explorer.
Octave, that's it.
What's this?
It's a romantic piano.
Chopin played the same model.
I remember a black concert piano.
The Concert Pleyel, yes. She had to let it go.
I played a bit as a child.
Beautiful Girl Ragtime. Know it?
Oh, it's lame.
The work of cats.
It's a shame.
-By the way, what's your name? -Roland.
Roland Lefébure, A friend of your Aunt Marthe.
Well, an acquaintance.
Well?
Goodbye Louise. I must go.
-I'll see you to the door. -I know the way.
Here.
Thanks.
You owe me an extra coupon.
-It's not that heavy. -Not heavy but bulky.
Alright.
Because you're new.
-Here. -Thanks.
-Goodbye. -Goodbye.
-Hello. -Hello.
-What is it? -A package.
About time.
I did what I could.
-Could you sign here please. -Yes.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
Have a nice day.
Henry?
A postcard from Nemours.
Henry?
Why don't you answer when I call?
I'll read you the letter.
"July 21st 1994. My Darling:
We're sad... not to hear any news.
Just a word, a sign.
It's not hard.
Your father sends you a kiss and me too.
Tenderly, your parents who love you.
PS:
How's Henry?"
You see? They think of you.
I'm a bad girl.
I didn't write to mom and dad.
You know...
today again... someone told me...
that I reminded him of somebody.
Fourth time in ten days.
Something is catching up with me.
Yes, I promise. I'll write to them.
Stop staring at me, I told you I'd to it.
So Ninon, how it's going?
I feel I'm flying.
I'll wait for you in 5 minutes.
Yes, Judith, hold on.
I'll wait for you in an hour.
Judith, for you it's "AGFA".
Lise, close that box, you're doing it on purpose.
No, I just never remember where I put the keys.
In front of you, on the window.
AGFA, 26 Rue des Plantes, 14th district.
-And then to Acti. -Hello!
Rue de Alouettes, 31.
Hello! I have something for you, Estelle.
How's business?
Here and there. Rather there than here.
Between here and there you find yourself.
You too.
Who is he?
It's Roland the boss next door.
He's nice.
-You mean it seriously? -Yes, I'm serious.
I prefer Estelle.
I also like to move...
I'd like to go dancing tonight.
-Do you know a club? -You must know one.
Not many, actually none.
Hello?
Yes, fine.
There's "Sarah Saloon", it's fun. Sometimes there are cute men.
I'll give you the address, if you want.
It's fine.
Fine music, Sarah's Fine.
-You know her? -A little, like everyone.
She's nice.
-For you everything is fine. -Not everything.
"Sarah Saloon", yes.
Lise, phonecall!
Hello?
Alright.
Ninon, a client for you.
32 Rue au Dragon.
Will you take me?
-All right today? -Yes.
-Watch it, it's fragile. -It's for tonight.
-What do I owe this honour? -Where you looking for this?
Thanks, I looked everywhere. I lose everything.
You could just have called.
No, I Iike to have a reason to... go out.
It's huge.
I'll show you.
-Aren't you working? -No, I'm just pretending.
I'm on their backs. They do everything.
Today you're my guest.
I love being guide.
The waterwall for "The Magic Flute".
Look.
We have to return to the water.
And the Ordeal of Fire?
We're working on it. The visit continues.
Here are the artists.
Show me.
Yes.
The pulleys on a scale at two, Thomas.
That's the bridge?
It's rather a window.
In that case...
-The most interesting is upstairs. -I don't want to disturb.
I'm delighted.
This is me.
My office.
Here I think.
Yes, I might stay until two, three in the morning.
Once we had a break down.
Denis! What's this circus?
What did I say about this column?
Roland?
Do you have a minute?
Excuse me, I'll be right back.
You found it.
You look happy with that boy.
I'm indiscreet.
It's not a theft, I must say.
Rather an involuntary acquisition.
Come, I'll explain.
Up there's the accounting, we call it "Hell".
Here is "paradise".
This is a model for Montpellier.
And the tree over there, "The Tree of Wisdom".
I'm waiting for the snake.
Recognize them?
Yes it's the table in the sitting room.
You want to buy it back?
You weren't aware?
I was away.
This one I had to pay.
I thought your aunt would never give in.
I adore it.
The photo was in it.
This is also yours.
No, it's not mine.
You never danced? I thought so.
You're right, keep your secrets.
Keep them.
Come and see, this is the nicest.
Paris, a while back.
You scared me.
It's nothing.
It's the height.
Hello yes, Quick 'n Well?
Rue de Passy, 3rd left. Rue de Raynouard, 4th right.
-Fine. -It's for me?
A package for Passy.
50, very well. The door code?
A184, ground floor, end of courtyard.
I think I have everything.
Thank you.
Listen, Estelle.
Yes, excuse me could you repeat, please?
Lise.
What did I say about the box?
Ninon, Rue de Vignes, 50.
-What does this mean? -What does what mean, madame?
Alright, thank you. Good bye.
There was twice as much a while ago.
-I had nothing to do with it. -What do you mean?
Who is it?
It's your neighbor, what are you listening to?
What?
What are you listening to?
-I can't find the station. -Yes, but the song?
-What song? -The one we just heard.
I'm not listening, I'm looking.
Well, excuse me.
Behind me there's nothing.
As if I had no past.
A real black hole.
As if my legs had no feet.
"Ida has no feet, Ida has no feet...
Ida has no mom...
Ida has no dad...
Ida has a cat...
Henry the cat...
Who doesn't care what I say...
Ida has no boyfriend...
But Ida...
has ideas..."
Thank you, good bye.
Your money, quick!
-Stop it! -What are you doing?
Are you alright?
Goodbye Monsieur.
The guy starts insulting me...
And I reply: "Watch it buddy or polish your balls".
Imagine his face...
I'm singing now, see you later.
"I'll do anything...
To find you again...
To see you again...
and hold you...
My heart, broken...
when I lost you...
See you again...
Wanna dance?
"In my arms...
One more time...
Feel mine...
My lost love...
But you look so much...
Like the other fool...
Always the same illusions...
And dreams of joy...
That stranger offers you...
With the same pretty smile...
That made me surrender...
You cry the same tears...
I'd do anything to find you again...
See you again...
Hold you again...
With this heart, broken...
When I lost you...
See you again...
One more time...
Hold you...
In my arms...
One more time...
Feel mine...
My lost love...
My love... lost... "
Thank you.
Thank you, maybe later.
-You like it here? -Yes, it's nice.
You won't see me again, Estelle fired me.
-But you did nothing... -She doesn't know.
She says it's my fault... it's a bit true.
It's not true.
It's dumb.
From when I left, until you came, barely two minutes passed.
He who did it had good eyes.
It was really bad luck.
What will you do?
I don't know.
I'm disappointed.
I liked Estelle.
And I liked the company.
Excuse me.
Are you following me?
You don't believe in chance? I do.
You don't look happy to see me.
I don't know what to think.
The evenings starts well.
For me it's over.
You leave me alone?
I'm exhausted.
Take care of little Lise, she needs it.
Hello.
-Same as usual? -Yes, please.
I'll start heating it.
I don't know what you did to Mr. Paul...
It was very odd after you left.
As if he'd seen a ghost.
I also have a strange thing.
I hear a song on the radio...
I'm sure I know it.
It's in my head.
I don't know from where, maybe my childhood...
maybe even before, before my birth.
I read something in the paper:
Babies hear in the mother's womb.
What do you think?
I don't know, if it's true, my kids...
I'm sure my mother sang that song when she was pregnant.
There.
-Can I have a napkin? -What?
-A napkin... -I forgot the mustard.
Hello? Papa, it's you.
"So how are you?
We haven't talked for three days...
I tried to reach you, you're never there...
What are you up to? How are you my little angel?
Your dizziness?"
It's nothing.
I like Paris.
I like Aunt Marthe's house.
Even the stairs, if I'm by the wall.
-"Have you met Bellargent?" -I don't feel like it.
I want to meet new people.
"Are you eating well?
You should have balanced meals..."
Tea and cookies.
"You need some fat...
See the nutritionist I talked about...
Louise? Hello?
Hello?
What's happening?
You're not alone?"
I'm alone but my hair's all wet.
"You'll catch a cold...
Dry your hair, and go to a hairdresser next time."
Kiss, dad, I'll call you.
"If I were there,
I'd tell you the story of the cat that goes out all alone...
for the 1000th time.
Dry your hair. Talk to you tomorrow."
Bye.
Like a drink, Ninon? I invite you.
Sorry, no time...
I won't go without you. Don't make a fuss.
Thanks, I have an appointment.
-No kidding! -Have fun.
Don't worry.
Don't worry about me.
Hello.
Hello, looking for someone?
-Yes, Mr. Roland, for Ninon Courtois. -Yes.
He's not in his office. Maybe by the painting.
Thank you.
You scared me...
To each his turn.
Well, I wanted to apologize.
For what?
I wonder what you think of me.
Do you really care?
Don't pretend, it's annoying.
You look disturbed.
-I am disturbed. -What is it?
You should know it.
If you care, I'm also disturbed.
Did I disturb you?
You're close and distant.
Here you're close, there you're distant.
-I can't play without knowing the rules. -And that disturbs you?
-I don't know who you are... or what... -Shut up.
Tell me, frankly...
Frankly...
It was well dealt, I enjoyed it.
-I'd be partial to... -To blackmail, is that it?
You'd do that for me?
We're both disturbed.
"Disturbed" it's a ridiculous word.
Totally ridiculous, "dis... tur... bed".
-Dis... tur... bed. -Dis... tur... bed.
-I'm embarrassed. -You're embarrassed? -Aren't you?
-Very embarrassed. -Embarrassed and disturbed. -You kissed me. -You regret?
-I'd do it again. -Do it again.
"I don't know if it's yes or no.
I don't know if it's no or yes.
I don't know anything, no, let's wait.
Let's wait along...
the yes and no.
Please come let's dance.
It's great!
Don't pretend.
-Please. -It's private.
I'd like to see...
Alfredo García.
Lead her.
-Excuse me. -It's private.
A woman just went in.
-You're with her? -No, but...
Sorry.
This way please.
Good evening.
-You are Alfredo García? -Absolutely, and you are...?
Louise Leuven. You left this card at my hotel.
It's not my card...
-But I'm delighted to meet you. -You know me?
Not yet.
Since you've come here... I hope you'll become a regular.
Who could have left this card?
Someone who wanted us to meet.
You're an extraordinary woman.
Your jade eyes reflect lots of memories...
Your life has strange resources.
Subtle relations with death...
Do we agree?
I dunno.
But yes, we agree.
I have an old brandy. May I offer you a glass?
Unless you're "abstinente".
Abstinente, aguardiente... It rhymes!
Thanks.
"Just a bit of...
cool water for the lovers.
Two cookies...
dipped in coffee
and no one...
not even the phone...
distracts them.
Resting...
on a cloud of crumpled sheets...
alone...
light years away.
The streets...
and the rest...
fade...
far away.
Nothing can be done...
for the castaways
riding...
the great wave...
which rocks them...
to mysterious isles.
without a craft...
without a raft...
without leaving land...
the castaways wander.
Nothing...
they need nothing at all...
or maybe just a window...
only...
to say it's night already...
day already.
Nothing can be done...
the castaways...
want to be...
lost at sea...
to find...
the mysterious isles.
without a craft...
with a raft...
without leaving land...
the castaways wander.
without a raft...
without a craft...
Why, why why... do this to me? I'm stupid!
I make you laugh?
If I make you laugh, tell me.
What're you doing here at this hour?
I'm thinking.
Well then...
Thinking of Robespierre's wig.
Strange, huh?
Since I left the asylum everything's strange.
-It's normal after five years. -No, it's not the changes...
New bottle caps and all that.
It's the people.
I don't know what they want from me.
What people?
You for example.
You just beat around the bush.
You're not a bush.
Thank you.
So what's your problem?
Your friend, the one on the photo...
Simon?
Was he just an acquaintance or more?
You don't want to find him?
He's married, a doctor with kids.
So it wasn't serious...
There you see, you just change the subject.
Not at all.
Then I'm crazy.
If I have a problem, it's not with you.
May I ask with whom then?
Did you enjoy "Backstage"?
I didn't understand what the owner wants from me.
Alfredo? I'm not surprised.
Even if I've known him for so long.
Is he your problem?
I'd rather not tell you.
Are you involved in something? Trafficking?
Trafficking isn't the word.
A gang?
A gang doesn't mean much.
A group?
A group, that's too much.
What should I say then? A club?
A club, if you wish.
A club doesn't sound very fishy.
Depends on what kind of club.
You mean something... disgusting?
Disgusting is too banal.
Terrifying?
Murderous?
You're pretty curious.
I'm just interested.
Naturally I know a bit about death.
What are you looking at?
Tonight the moon looks like Robespierre.
Know what that means?
It means bedtime for me.
Tell me all about Alfredo.
That wouldn't be a favour.
Goodnight. Don't dream.
"Vitébien", hello?
What address?
6, Place de la République Dominicaine. 1st floor, inside.
In 15 minutes.
Dedé?
Stéphane! Urgent for Mr. Roland.
-I must clean the spark plug first. -Leave it, I'll take it.
-I'm faster with my rollers. -As soon as you can, hurry.
Thanks.
Hello.
Thanks.
Haven't we met before?
-Yes, at "Backstage". -Goodbye.
Can't you watch out!
Why are you staring at me?
You also wonder who I look like? I'll tell you: No one, okay?
May I pass? Thanks.
Jean-Luc.
Thank you.
Mademoiselle...
I'm sorry to bother you again, but maybe can help me.
I'm looking for a book on renaissance balconies.
For "Romeo and Juliet"?
Who's the publisher?
It's an English book, I don't know the title...
neither the author's name, nor the publisher's...
Well let's see, come with me.
You...
You don't care about having parents or not.
Me...
I haven't got time for them.
My parents love me, I know.
I love them too.
Thanks to them I didn't end up in the gutter.
They're not my real parents.
Real or false, I shouldn't care.
But I do care.
I can't stand not knowing whom I resemble.
And this nose...
Who's nose is it?
And these eyes...
Who's eyes are they?
And this mouth...
Who's mouth is this?
And these shoulders...
And these breasts...
And this ass...
Who's ass is this?
"Dreams of friends...
piled under my bed...
along the years...
along the night...
Leaning where chance will...
the simple life I love...
I make do with reproaches...
while waiting for better days.
Dreaming under the charms under the chestnut tree...
of pretty Paris we're only passing by.
Our random errors why regret them?
I won't tangle.
All I want...
for the moment...
is in your eyes it's not wicked.
I've gone through...
darker skies.
Lighter today, no bad intentions...
I sing out.
Dreaming under the charms under the chestnut trees...
of pretty Paris, we're only passing by.
Our random errors why regret them?
I won't tangle.
Dreams of friends...
piled under by bed...
along the years...
along one's life."
Among us, I don't trust you at all.
What have I done now?
Today nothing yet. But I'm sure it'll come.
I wonder what you think I'm capable to do?
All of a sudden you disappear into loose air.
But you're the specialist in disappearing acts.
And when you changed partners?
You dumped the blonde and sent roses to the brunette.
Yellow roses.
Why not red roses actually?
It's not at all what you think.
-What then? -I don't care what you think.
You can do what you want.
This girl, her name's Louise.
A miracle, she awoke after 5 years in coma.
Marvellous.
She doesn't know I have a problem with her.
Like with a sleepwalker walking on a roof.
What's the problem?
If you wake them up, they fall. You not they fall also.
-Can you be more clear? -No, right now I can't.
Fine...
So what?
If she has to fall... let her fall.
Obviously you have no conscience then not.
-What does that mean? -Nothing.
Anything else?
If you have something to say, say it.
I have a problem with Louise, not with you.
Very nice.
I've nothing better to say.
You're really charming.
"I don't want to pass you by.
I know better first than later.
Like a wilted flower...
sentimental fare...
had to settle...
I have to close the trunks.
It hurts like hell.
I did nothing wrong.
I don't know well.
Between you and me.
This half smile is not becoming.
Sadly or carelessly...
I'm afraid we have no choice.
Even if it's a pity...
even if it's a pity...
we'll forgive each other.
Closing my trunks...
it hurts like hell.
I did nothing wrong.
I know nothing...
nothing...
-Hello. -Hello.
Thanks for the flowers.
Nice little hotel.
Still not moving to your aunt's?
I need a transition.
Speaking of my aunt...
Can I buy back the dressing table?
Rather not. I'm pretty attached to it.
-Is that why you called me? -Not really.
Something to drink?
A whiskey, please.
Well?
Alfredo.
The owner of "Backstage".
You won't leave before I know who he is.
Why do you want to know what nobody should know?
Perhaps 'cause I'm not nobody.
Perhaps 'cause I'm not even sure I'm here.
Those are big perhaps.
The way you talk, anyone would get curious.
Forget anything said of Alfredo.
"Just words chasing each other, influenced by the moon...
Robespierre
Excuse me.
"Me again, my little angel...
Am I disturbing you?" -Not at all, Dad.
No, stay.
"Are you alone? Listen...
If you're strong enough to come and hug me this weekend...
I'll book a ticket...
No, Papa, I can't come.
I need more time.
"I miss you so much...
-Hug you, I'll call you. -"Hug you too!"
-It was my father. -I understood that.
Well, you lied about Alfredo, why?
Maybe it wasn't a lie.
-But I can't talk about it. -You're unbearable again.
It's about my life and yours too.
You're kidding. It sounds like soap opera.
Reality is sometimes worse than a soap opera.
You're life is threatened? By Alfredo?
-I didn't say by him. -By whom? By what?
Is it that famous club?
You're not dumb.
I want to go.
Not dumb, but really crazy.
-Help me get in. -You'll regret it.
I've nothing to regret.
Anyway, I don't believe you.
As you wish.
Promise?
-Will you fix it? -At your own risk.
Don't complain afterwards.
-You talked about me? -Keep quiet, do what you're told.
You wanted to see what's in the cards. They'll be showed.
-Am I late? -It hasn't begun.
What do you mean with "cards"? Is this a game?
From now on shut up.
Good evening, Sarah.
Good evening everyone.
We can begin.
Most of you, who were lucky enough...
or should I say unlucky enough to resist until now...
you know the rules.
Roland told me your story.
I admire your determination.
You deserve to be part of our society.
The only society which cannot have permanent members.
You are very brave.
Sarah.
I'll explain the principle... it's the simplest card game in the world.
I deal and whoever gets the ace of spades...
leaves us first.
Whoever gets the ace of clubs...
He or she has the scary privilege to...
let's say...
to dispatch him.
Do you understand?
Ace of spades, ace of clubs.
Are we ready?
I want to leave.
Too late, Louise, the rules are strict...
I'll deal.
It's really exiting. Anything is possible.
This is my ninth game and I'm still here.
Second round.
Dear friend, courage.
Louise, I understand you're troubled.
It's always hard...
the first time.
The young people will explain and guide you.
They'll tell you where and when.
Don't disappoint them.
Do you understand me?
And you, gentlemen...
Sarah, see you next time...
You know the date.
Good luck, Louise.
How I envy you.
When he appears over there...
Don't miss him.
-I'll try. -Don't just try.
You'll hit him. No one ever fails.
You'll see, it's not so difficult.
C'mon.
Don't shoot. Don't shoot!
Are you dead?
I don't feel anything yet.
Shouldn't I have a hole in my forehead now?
I can't see any holes.
I'd be dead if you hit me between the eyes.
No.
-Give me that, they're blanks. -Stay there!
-Stay there, don't touch me! -I'm far away.
Sure you're alright?
No, I'm not sure.
Not sure of anything.
Except...
I don't suffer from vertigo.
I'm cured.
Excuse me, what's that song?
-I thought you knew it. -No, can you tell me?
It's was a hit when I was in my twenties, maybe earlier.
-And today it was on the radio. -But who's singing?
I don't remember.
It's too long ago.
I'd do anything...
to find you.
I dunno.
-Excuse me, I'm in a hurry. -Wait!
It's a matter of life and death!
Please.
The lyrics. At least the lyrics!
"I'd do anything to find you...
To see and to hold you...
For this heart that broke...
When I lost you"
"I'd do anything to find you...
to see and to hold you...
For this heart that broke...
When I lost you.
I'd do anything to find you...
Funny place for a picnic. You also sleep here?
We've met before, but don't know each other.
You're special.
Shy and persistent at once. That's special.
Am I bothering you? I don't mean it.
Not me but the woman who lives here.
You're not very discreet.
What do you care?
If I were her friend I'd be worried.
You're wrong, I'm here to protect her.
That's not credible. You're not very credible.
Like to see my card?
Lucien Létraz, private investigator.
-I'm paid to watch her. -Paid? By whom?
By her father.
-Does he pay well? -Not bad.
You're lucky, but I think it's wasted money.
I admit I haven't much experience.
Is one of my first cases.
It's not difficult.
She's fragile.
She dad an accident. She spent several years in a coma.
You should be careful.
As a friend you should understand.
I just said "if I were a friend".
Who are you then?
Who are you?
Hello. What brings you here?
Nice place you have.
Warm.
Colourful.
Do you sleep well now?
Don't dream anymore?
I'm getting settled.
If you're here to criticize, you can right away.
I didn't come empty-handed.
Just hands?
Where did you start drinking? At Sleeping Beauty?
Will you open it or should I?
Are there any certain tools or just a can opener?
The Sleeping Beauty as you say...
had a very, very hard awakening.
-Very, very, very... -No! You're spilling it.
What is so very hard?
I had it on my mind for weeks.
She had on her mind always.
On her mind. What?
I won't tell her.
I don't know what you mean...
But you looked troubled.
Frankly.
It's easy to say that.
Do you collect boxes?
No, shoes.
May I see?
Leave it!
Classy shoes.
Shut up and get me a drink.
Can you explain? What did she do wrong?
She did nothing wrong.
Not her.
She's not of this century.
She is innocence.
She has purity.
She has chastity.
Chastity.
Prurience.
Roland...
Yes?
Look at me.
Yes?
You see me?
Yes.
See the door?
Yes.
I've heard enough.
Well...
I tried, but well...
Goodnight.
Do you like Bordeaux?
Yes, a lot.
Saint-Emilion. Can I come over?
Straight question, straight answer.
Stairway B, 5th floor right.
Thank you.
See you.
Good morning.
I'd like a bouquet like a man would send.
Red roses?
Baccara, yes, how many, 12?
12. Yes, like the apostles including Judas.
That one's nice, this too.
-Good morning. -Again?
-How much is it? -Nothing... may I come in?
Yes.
You are Louise Leuven? I'm Ninon Courtois.
-Those roses are on me. -On you?
Excuse me.
Pardon.
-Thanks. -Bye.
Bye.
-I know from whom they are. -Really? -There's a note.
"I'm sorry for the bad joke.
When you find out, you'll forgive me perhaps...
Find out what? Who he is?
-Right. -You know him well?
No one knows him well.
-I know too many strange people. -Lucien, I know...
Who?
-Lucien, your guardian angel. -My what?
The guy who's hired by your father.
Don't look like that, he told me.
Paid by dad?
I'll make tea.
-Roland, what a bastard! -He's a moron!
-A real jerk. -Milk or lemon? He's sick.
Don't excuse him. Lemon.
-Excuse him? It's unforgivable. -He doesn't exist.
-Milk is okay too. -Don't talk about him.
I'll take lemon.
Let's talk of something else.
We need to talk of something else.
"Talk of something else...
The ozone layer
Amazonian river
The Blue Nile and the Yellow River
It's not in France
There are stormy nights
Such beautiful sights
The painting of Caravaggio
The men with such bravado.
-Not my age -You're too sage
What a page
-What a rhyme -Make me whine
-Simply? -Doubly
-Don't give a hoot -Why not shoot
-On the roof -What a proof
-I don't see -The sun shine
-Is a shine -By the sea
Freedom!
-There are highs -There are lows
-What a sigh -With the flow
-There are lies -With the flow
-There are lies -Begotten forgotten misbegotten
-There's some tea -What my tea
-You should make it -I'm not with it
-There is a -What Teresa?
-You're on a branch -Along the ranch
-A game of die by day -Portrait of Mallarmé
-No need to be alarmed -I really am charmed
-I am well armed -I have been harmed
-Stop crying away -I'd like to be away
-I'd like to have my way -In the arms of a pretty fay
-Enough I say? -They're none today!"
I'm looking for a song.
I don't know the singer nor the title.
I know the words more or less.
May I hum it?
Go ahead.
"I'd do anything to find you again
and to hold you...
It's silly but I really...
need to know...
who sings this song.
"I'd do anything to find you again
to see you and to hold you...
by this broken heart...
Yes, it rings a bell.
It was on the radio, don't remember which one.
-It's not very recent. -Yes, I know.
I believe the singer's name is Sarah.
Sarah? Sarah what?
Sarah... that's it.
I dunno what she did later.
Nothing I think.
We don't have it.
Think I can find it on laser disc?
On a CD?
It ought to have been a hit to come out on CD.
Too bad.
-Welcome back. -Thanks.
Louise.
An awful joke, I agree.
But you didn't die.
You're prettier than ever.
Thanks for the shock therapy.
You're a monster, Alfredo.
I assure you I didn't know.
I thought I was a role.
It was "droll"?
Not droll but role. Role playing.
"Dungeons and Dragons". Alfredo loves it.
Cards?
I say Aficionado.
You got me with the cards, I'll pay back with them.
I was good in school.
Deal.
Really?
I'll have three.
She's bluffing.
One.
Two cards.
Pass.
1000.
Plus 1000.
Plus 2000.
4000.
Plus 2000.
To see.
2000.
Plus 3000.
Okay. To see.
Me too.
My two friends...
Ace of clubs and ace of spades.
That's it?
Three jacks.
Too little, a straight flush.
Done.
Not so fast.
My two friends have three girlfriends.
A Full House just like that.
A good start.
It'll continue.
2000.
Ninon!
Ninon, wait!
Are you the shy type?
And you the female type?
We know each other, why the distance?
Scared?
Last time you almost killed me.
-Do you blame me? -No.
-You don't bear a grudge? -No.
-Not talkative. -True.
Not discreet either. Why do you follow me?
-I can't tell you. -Try.
-Because. -Because what? My pretty bum?
No, yes... I mean...
Nothing wrong to say you like me.
I won't slap you.
Do you like me?
Yes.
You saw me in the street.
Yes.
And you fell... for me.
Yes.
That's why you follow me.
Yes.
That's why. Because I'm crazy...
about you.
Liar! Snitch!
It's because my father pays you.
Yes, your father pays.
I don't understand it. I'm lost.
I'm mad about you. It's true. It's horrible.
That changes everything.
Exactly, for me too.
-You're amiable. -No, I'm not amiable.
-Don't like that word? -I don't like words with ...able.
-What should I say then? -I dunno. -Enthralling? -No.
-Pouting? -No. -Ruminating? -No.
Tender.
Somber.
That's better.
"Dark and mysterious
Silent and precious
Eyes so sensuous
Your eyes on me for several days already
For so many days you entered my soul
My heart
Changed my life to my delight
Believe it or not what will change?
Nothing
It is love
That's what it is
What makes it
If you want my hand
Come with me
In the cold night's long sleep
It's over I wake up
To a bright sunny day
I cry out of joy
This beautiful day... is mine"
Shall we eat at Lasserre or on the Eiffel Tower?
The Eiffel Tower, I've never been up there.
Fine, I'll close my eyes.
Ninon, do you think human meat tastes any good?
It depends from whom.
It's good.
Whom you're thinking of.
It's really good, try the leg.
Roland... grilled.
Roland... sliced.
Roland... ripped.
Roland... cut up.
Roland...
broken.
-Blown up. -Roland is finished.
-Who's going? -Not me. -Me neither.
-No, not me. You! -You!
Okay. Let's draw by lots.
One, two, three.
It's you!
Okay, I'll go.
Hello?
It's him.
No.
Me?
Why?
Tomorrow at nine, okay.
Bye.
-What did he say? -He wants to see me. -Why?
I don't know, but he sounded serious.
Poor Roland.
-Poor Roland. -Poor Roland.
It's touching to stand up for her.
But it wasn't worth it.
I only do this to protect her.
-Oh well. -It's the truth.
-You're married to truth? -Married or not, so it is.
I improvised this wild story...
to prevent she's realising something.
Something painful for her.
I tried to tell you, but you won't listen.
I can't believe anything you say.
-You want proof? -I don't care.
I don't like men who speak unclear.
I love nosy women acting up.
You have nothing to sell.
What is it?
What Louise should know one day is the truth on her father.
Inventing more now?
Want proof? Look.
Roland!
We have a big problem here.
It'll cost a nice sum.
No problem. Put it on the next quarter.
"June 1964, Professor Müller's suicide".
Her father isn't Müller.
Her father is fine, his company's on the stock market.
He's a dickhead but Louise doesn't know it.
Read the letter. It's enlightening.
Müller was convicted instead of him.
How d'you know these are real?
Read the articles.
It was a big scandal 30 years ago.
-How did you find this? -Right there in the niche.
Secrets don't exist for me.
Have you read it? Give it back.
Careful now.
Don't make a face. Swear you won't tell Louise.
No, I won't swear anything.
What will I do then?
I don't know.
Not my business.
Do you know the "Saloon"?
Not at all, what is it?
A kind of nightclub.
Why should I know it?
The song you were singing.
The club owner sang it too.
So I thought you know the place.
Wait!
Follow me.
The women who sings it, what's her name?
Sarah, why?
Sarah... How is she? Do I look like her?
-I don't know, it's hard to say. -I'd like to see her.
It's easy, she sings at the "Saloon", 3 Rue Béranger.
3 Rue Béranger.
Thanks a lot.
I had this tune in my head since I was small...
even before my birth.
Really, it's true.
Something wrong?
I'm fine. Well, I'm not fine at all.
Why?
I do everything one shouldn't do in this affair.
-Like falling in love with the boss's daughter. -How you know?
I know many things.
Afraid he'll find out and fire you?
No, not at all.
I don't know how it can work.
Your father in law...
I mean your boss Mathias Leuven.
Don't be too impressed.
He's a bastard, a crook and worse.
-Mr. Leuven? -Mr. Leuven, exactly.
It's not recent, in the 60's.
In 1964 to be precise.
He worked in a big lab.
He embezzled millions.
Someone else was blamed. He couldn't take it and killed himself.
I have proof, documents, everything.
How do you know all this?
Someone couldn't remain silent.
He says Louise will find out anyway.
He wants to wake her up before.
Wake her up?
Maybe it wasn't that word.
A strange way to handle it.
That's his problem.
But your problem is now mine.
We need to solve it, me, him, her and you.
Why me? Why do you tell me?
Don't you want to know what your fiancée's father did?
She's not my fiancée.
She can be with these documents.
I can't use them.
-Blackmail is a word you fear? -It's not the word but the thing.
It's mean. I can't do that.
Mean, him? Your boss is mean.
On the contrary it would be justly.
You must have been through hell to think so.
It's possible.
-I don't say this to hurt you. -No.
You're right, it's true.
Hopefully it's over soon.
The end of lies and the rest.
I'll do anything for it.
For Louise too.
Time to open her eyes, no?
I dunno.
I wanted to give you a present but it's a nuisance.
Bye.
Wait!
I want to know everything. Detailed.
-What can I get you? -A double whisky.
-Tell me it's a good week. -A very good week.
Beer, whiskey, plus 20%.
Know what? We've run out of tequila.
I'm so disorganized, Lise.
-You came just in time. -So I'm hired?
Well, since I said yes.
Super! Life is beautiful.
What would I do without you?
"Ah yes...
I'm a girl...
I girl upside down...
I do it all...
I do everything... upside down...
When I should cry...
I laugh like crazy...
Nothing to do about it...
I'm upside down...
It's my life, yes honey...
I'm just complicated...
walking through life...
Ah yes...
I'm willing to question myself...
But on one small condition...
It's that either way...
you love me like a woman...
upside down...
Nothing can be done...
I'm upside down...
In your arms and by your side...
Upside up, and upside down...
I will be, yes my dear...
simply your complicated love...
complicated, complicated...
for the whole life...
Ah yes...
It's crazy how complicated I am...
Ah yes...
I'm really very... very complicated...
Thank you.
I expected you earlier.
I'm leaving, Louise.
I wanted to see you one last time.
What's wrong? Did I do something?
You? No, not you.
There's someone?
Yes.
Obviously.
Someone?
No.
No one except you.
But you don't and and wanted to tell me the truth, right?
-Truth! Switzerland! -Unfortunately, no.
I love you madly.
Wait, you love me...
there's no one else, we just met and you're leaving?
-What are you afraid of? -Of you.
Want some tea?
I like to make tea in this house, in fact I often do it.
No, no tea for me.
-You prefer coffee? -No.
I scare you.
Am I so scary?
Because I'm my father's daughter?
No, it's more serious.
Can't we ever meet again?
-As a child, were you happy? -Is this a poll? -Answer me.
Boarding schools and Calvinists aren't very funny but I can't complain.
Why does it matter?
-What do you think of your father? -He's my father.
Not so much fun.
I wish he had remarried after Mom...
He said I was enough. I believed him.
Yes, that's what I thought.
Nothing stronger than tea? It's horrible.
The tea?
No, that you love and admire him.
A Superman.
Always the right ties, jackets.
Ties bother you?
Yes, I hate ties. Guys with ties bother me.
Especially when the guy who wears them should in fact be...
be behind bars.
-Yes, your father. No I'm not crazy. -I didn't say that...
But I did. And now you hate me.
I don't get it.
Dad is a banker in Genève.
He's no saint, but not a gangster either.
I knew you'd never believe me.
I can't show you the papers. Roland has them.
-Roland? -Yes.
They prove your father is a crook.
He had that in mind since he met you.
And I did the worst I could do: tell you.
I just couldn't keep my mouth shut.
I'm sorry.
Shit.
Adieu.
-Lucien... -What?
Sit here.
I'll sit here.
Calm down...
and tell me everything you know.
And whatever it is, afterwards...
we'll make love.
Here, on this couch.
My favourite "cleaner". Through the window?
It's my business.
Don't look at me. You see right through me.
I wish I could. It would spare me a lot of trouble.
I'm not mad at you.
Me neither, and you cleaned me.
But I've trouble with my bank.
We're still not even.
I was hoping to make you cry...
You knew so much of me more than I do myself.
Did that scare you? You wanted to protect me?
You felt responsible? Responsible for me?
It's funny.
I'm not a child. I'm not sick.
I can walk, think, I'm like everyone else.
So why would you do it to me?
Why treat me this way?
I was mean, fair enough, you took revenge, okay?
So what else?
You see very well.
I told you I'm not angry.
I'm a bit disappointed.
Men who lie are disappointing.
And those who don't are not?
Very well sir, I'll learn that.
I've come for something that belongs to me.
-That belongs to you? -Yes, that belongs to me.
You took me to the cleaners.
It's over, Roland. I know everything.
You start to like melodramas?
I know everything about my father. Give me the envelope.
What envelope?
A brown Swiss stamped envelope, containing documents.
That's crazy, you're completely nuts.
"Abracadabraly", in Arthur's terms.
Abracadabra or not, I want those papers
"Abracadabraly", a nice poem...
-"The Punished Joker". -It suits you.
The papers.
You're dreaming.
Papers... you want papers?
I'm swamped with papers.
Take everything... There are mountains.
Archives, orders, contracts...
Take them... Release me, it's all I ask for...
"Why do you act smart...
"Think you are doing good...
"What do you know? Give me those papers, they're my life.
"Who I am, where I'm from, where I go, I decide...
"You talk too much...
"You make fun of me...
"You don't even know me...
"With your airs of lynx...
"or rather deadly sphinx...
"I like your lioness look but you're out of your mind...
"The past is after me...
"I must know the truth...
"I don't believe you...
"Don't hesitate or you're lost...
It's not funny.
I agree it's not funny.
Yes?
Louise Leuven.
-It's for you. -For me?
Hello?
Fine...
I'll be there.
You again.
Don't play dumb.
You took the papers. It can't be anyone else.
I don't judge you.
Probably you had good intentions. Besides it's my fault.
I shouldn't have explained it. Why do I need to explain myself?
I don't judge you but you must return them.
This is not a just game.
Don't look as if I'm a moron.
Don't underestimate me.
I'm stupid enough to be infatuated with you.
What a silly word: "infatuated".
I won't pretend...
Clearly... you have an effect on me.
"...an effect" sounds even worse.
It's bad taking advantage, frankly...
-Roland... -No, this time I won't leave.
Roland...
Sit down.
Close your eyes.
-Close your eyes, but... -And shut up.
Wait for me.
-Good evening. -How are you?
You were sublime last night.
I was really touched. Really.
Thanks, for me it was really good too.
And tonight has just started.
-I'm sure it will be magic. -We'll see.
I have a new song I like. I'll try it.
-Tell me what you think. -Go ahead.
"There are the melancholy days...
Days when we like gray...
When we feel so small...
Sheltered by the twilight...
a melody which lays...
A song which says goodbye...
which sways our feelings...
Loving sadness exists...
An air which turns you sad...
A song as Cole...
Porter, which makes us wallow...
A song as Cole...
a real one which makes us...
want to cry...
Moved by the blue melodies...
And we dream...
A song as Cole...
full of charm and tenderness...
And when the make-up...
surrounding the eyes dissolves in tears..."
There's no one.
Thanks.
Your turn.
"Exulting our weaknesses...
Suffering painless...
Crying is no distress...
Every little tone carries a souvenir...
carried by our sighs...
It's so good to be sad...
with sweetness and delicacy...
A song like Cole...
Porter, which makes us wallow...
A song as Cole...
a real one which makes you...
want to cry...
Moved by the blue melodies...
And we dream...
A song as Cole...
full of charm and tenderness...
That moment the Cole...
surrounding the eyes dissolves in tears...
The long languorous murmur...
A song as Cole..."
Did you know it?
No.
Did you see me?
No.
You despise me?
No.
What do I do now?
I'm not in your shoes, Ninon.
"My little angel, nothing happens, are you alright?
Are you in good health?"
Yes, always, why?
"I shouldn't tell you, but I... "
What shouldn't you tell me?
"I hired a young man to look after you.
and he sent me the last report with an incomprehensible note.
Is anything bothering you?"
I don't know what you mean.
I don't need anyone to watch over me.
I mean this boy, Louise."
Do you remember the The Luxembourg Gardens?
There are some guys playing chess.
And on the other side...
there are people play tennis.
When I was there the other day...
I saw a little girl, about ten years old, no more.
"Lousie, I..." -Let me get ready, Dad.
Well, the girl is...
very pretty, with green eyes...
I saw she beat a man at chess.
And then...
I saw her playing tennis with another guy...
and she beat him too.
I heard they called her Louise.
Isn't that funny?
"Yes, very funny but I'd say...
What is that?"
It's nothing, Dad.
"When are you coming?"
I have to go now. Hug you.
"I hug you too. When are you coming?"
Come in Lucien. It's open.
Am I disturbing?
No, you're not.
You're talking to yourself?
I'm a bit drunk.
Do you want something?
I'll drink with you all night long.
I'm cold.
I feel naked.
The kingdom of my childhood is ruined.
I was wearing a crown.
And now I missed it.
Did you read the papers?
There are no papers.
They never existed.
-Everything was fake? -Everything was real.
Everything is real.
I touch this chair...
it's real.
I touch you.
You're real.
Louise...
I love you so much.
From the start I did everything backwards.
Don't say anything.
Keep quiet.
Backwards...
and forward.
Hello... Bonjour Mademoiselle.
I come for the room. It's me who called.
Come in please.
-What is your name? -Ida, Ida Masson.
That bag looks heavy. Won't you put it down?
Almost nothing in it.
See the room?
Coming?
-Are you a student? -No...
I'm a librarian at Decorative Arts Museum.
-Where's Decorative Arts? -Rue de Rivoli.
By the ugly Joan of Arc statue. The golden one.
You can use the kitchen whenever you want.
And the bathroom too.
-Are you a night person or a day person? -How so?
Are you washing yourself evening or morning?
In the morning.
For me it's evening...
after singing.
A cat!
Yes, I have two.
I dunno where the other one is.
-Do you like cats? -Yes, I have one.
-His name is Henry. -Henry IV?
I hope they get along.
It's great with a garden in Paris.
You're lucky.
Yes, but it's sad that no one's using it.
I rent out the room to be a little less lonely.
-Do you want something to drink? -Okay.
Some tea, a beer?
-Orange juice maybe? -Yes a juice.
Not much to see in these old things.
Thank you.
Once I used to paint a lot...
But it's over.
It's prehistory.
-Do you know Nemours? -Nemours? The city?
I've been there two or three times.
Years ago.
-Why? -For nothing.
I lived there before.
-You're not a real Parisian. -No.
Neither am I.
I've been here for 3 months.
So you like the room?
Very much.
-But I'm not sure I'll take it. -Oh, really?
Why?
I won't throw you out, but I've to prepare myself for the singing.
-Thank you very much. -You're welcome.
Call me.
I'll think it over.
-Goodbye Madame. -Goodbye my little Ida.
Subtitles: Gaylord
Timing & Revision: TheHugeAnimalFromTheNorth