Private Fears in Public Places (2006) - full transcript

Tiny.

Tiny?

- You mean-
- It's tiny. I wouldn't say so otherwise.

Yes.

The brochure mentioned three rooms.

They're here.

Two, not three.

How do you mean?

A large one here.

The main room, say.

And here, a second one...



which was big, too,
before being partitioned...

for some strange reason.

Basically, we have one big room...

and two halves of another big room.

Is that right?

You think the second room was-

Look at the ceiling.

It's been cut in two.

You're right.

As for the window...

it's obvious.

It's been partitioned too.

You should have specified
two big half bedrooms...

two half windows...



and one ceiling cut in two.

To tell the truth,
this is a recent property, and-

Tell me. Two people sleep,
one in each of these half bedrooms.

The first one has the window open.

The second has the window closed.

What do you think happens?

- The brochure was-
- It's simple.

Either they freeze together
or they both stifle.

It's the most desirable area in Paris.

Yes, I'm sure it is.

It's very pleasant.

The Seine.

The National Library.
The pavement cafés.

A stone's throw from cinemas,
shops, stations-

I know, but the bedrooms
are a drawback!

My fiancé and I want a large bedroom
with a bathroom...

a guest room,
smaller but not this cramped...

and a third, comfortable room...

for my fiancé to use as a study.

Can you imagine a study
with a half window?

Of course not.

A study wouldn't work here.

You think it would work
in that box room?

Right. Point taken.

If your fiancé needs a study
for his work.

Not necessarily for work.
He just wants a study.

If it makes him happy, why not?

What is he in, if I may ask?

Limbo.

He's looking for work.
He's between jobs.

I see.

What direction is he looking in?
All directions?

I hope so.

He said he'd be here.
Why is he never on time?

Perhaps he was held up.
I can wait for him.

I haven't had a bite to eat.

Run and eat. Lunch is important.

It certainly is for me.

Do you work far away?

Just round the corner,
on rue de Tolbiac.

Rue de Tolbiac?

Imagine if you lived here.

I don't plan to work there forever.

Sorry, this place just won't do.

There are plenty more.

I'll keep looking, never fear.
I'll find the place.

- After you.
- Thank you.

Very quiet, isn't it...

Lionel?

- Very quiet, sir.
- Why is that? Do you know?

No idea, sir.
Perhaps because it's Tuesday.

That's right.

The hotel always slumbers on Tuesdays.

- There must be a reason.
- Not as far as I know, sir.

People should be living again
by Tuesday.

- Mondays, okay.
- True.

Monday comes after Sunday.

After Saturday night, parties-
You see what I mean.

You understand Mondays being quiet.

But Tuesdays?
Now, that's a mystery.

You did say it was Tuesday?

Yes, sir. Tuesday all day.

Shit!

Something wrong, sir?

No, I was supposed to be somewhere.

Never mind, it's too late now.

- What's the time?
- Half past 2:00, sir.

- Far from here?
- Forget it.

Time for the men's room.

Same again, Lionel.

Same again, sir.

You look as if you're frozen, Thierry.

It's a little nippy.
Anything new here?

No, apart from Mr. Lafarge
who called for you.

That's right, Mr. Lafarge.

- I said you'd call him back.
- Wonderful.

- When you had a minute.
- I'll do that.

You ought to call him now, Thierry.
It's wiser.

You're right, Charlotte.

You do owe him a call.

That's true. I owe him that.

You're upset. Am I wrong?

No.

Did she like it?

She found it too small.

It seemed huge in the brochure.

- It is. The bedrooms are the problem.
- Too poky, are they? Poky?

I'd say she finds them too compact.

- That can be good.
- Depends on what you do.

I meant for heating.

They're easier to heat.

That's what I meant too.

I must get back to work.

So must I.

- I'll call Mr. Lafarge.
- Well done.

You have a lovely laugh.

- I do?
- Yes.

When you laugh-
You should laugh more often.

If you say so.

Yes?

I have a tape for you.
A program I recorded on Sunday.

- Really?
- Songs That Changed My Life.

I told you about it.

Yes, of course!

- Still, if you'd rather not-
- No, I'd love to see it.

You're sure? I'd hate to-

I hope it's recorded right.

I never know where I am
with my machine.

- Why do they make them so complicated?
- I wonder too.

I wanted a basic one...

but those shop assistants
are such smooth talkers.

I know. I'll get this back to you.
It sounds fascinating.

There's no hurry.

- If you like it, it's on every Sunday.
- I always miss it.

I try to catch it, but my sister Gaëlle
and I tend to play ludo on a Sunday.

- Ludo?
- Quite a tradition.

Occasionally,
we try dominoes or canasta but rarely.

We're addicted to ludo.

We used to play mah-jongg
with the neighbors, but they moved.

I'll watch it tonight.

I hope you'll like it.
It made me love life again.

- Just what I need.
- We all do.

- A shot of joy won't do any harm.
- No.

There's so little on TV these days.
I mean, nothing that-

Makes you love life?

That's for sure.

- See you later.
- See you later.

So, where were you?

Me? I was mooching about.

Drinking?

I wouldn't call it drinking.

Aren't you looking for work?

Calm down, Nicole.
There's no rush.

Got any interviews?

On Tuesday, I think.
In a microbrewery.

Don't miss that one.

They need an accountant.
Dull stuff.

Dan, I can't take any more.
Find any job you can and work.

You'll work with people
and meet other people who work.

Work is the way
to get into the working world.

If you spend your days in bars or in bed,
you'll never find work.

True. One point for you.

Don't worry. I'll make it.

- What was it like?
- What?

The flat. The one you saw today.

Hopeless.

You'd have hated it.

Rooms fit for toddlers.

You couldn't have got a bed
in your study...

let alone a desk.

No way then.

- Dan?
- Yeah?

Why exactly do you need a study?

I want a study, that's all.

- What about me?
- What?

- Why can't I have a study too?
- I'm not stopping you.

What? We'd need a four-room flat.
It's ridiculous.

Besides, I don't need a study.

Well, I need one.

Just because your father has one?

For instance.

Can you tell me what you plan to do
in your study?

Sit there from time to time.

Have a think.
Write a few letters.

To whom?
You never write letters.

I write all the letters.

You've never written one
in your life.

Well...

not recently.

You used to write lovely letters.

Perhaps if I had a study...

I'd write to you again.

I hope you'll be livelier
once we're married.

Calm down, Nicole, please.

Calm like you? Is that it?

Six months without moving!
It's time you stirred yourself!

Especially-

Especially what?

Well, if I was-

You see?

- How do you mean?
- We have to think about that.

That's all I'm saying.

Yes, we have to think about that.

There you are.
I was afraid I'd miss you.

Metro trouble?

The usual. You know how it is.

- Off out again?
- For an hour or two, yes.

- Every night's a party.
- You think so?

- Always with the girls?
- From time to time.

How do you work
after living it up all night?

Don't exaggerate.

Is it a new fad?
I've read about drunken girl gangs.

You know I don't drink.

Did you get a frozen dinner?
There's some cold meat left.

It's all right.
I got a ready meal.

There's meat too.

- From Sunday. We need to eat it soon.
- It keep another day.

We'll eat it tomorrow.

- If you're not out partying.
- Stop it!

What are you doing tonight?

I'll try to eat this thing first
and then watch some television.

There's nothing on.

I have a tape Charlotte lent to me.

- Who?
- Charlotte from work, remember?

- Is she the uptight one?
- Uptight? I suppose she is a bit.

- I hardly know her.
- Fairly reserved though.

She's not talkative, true.

What is it? A movie?

No, a program she recorded for me.

She was so enthusiastic,
I said I'd like to see it.

To be polite.
So she recorded it.

It's one of those
religious music programs.

- She's very religious.
- Is she in love with you?

- Please!
- Are you keen on her?

- Am I what?
- You blushed!

That's enough, Gaëlle!
Stop it how.

Out with you. Off you go!

Great, I'll be on time for once.
Enjoy your evening.

You too.

And enjoy your tape.

It's hard to imagine
life with a sister.

- This way.
- Thank you.

Sorry, you're in the kitchen.

- The living room's his bedroom now.
- Yes.

- With my father being-
- Quite.

- And with the stairs-
- Of course.

Who's there, Lionel?
Who've you brought back?

It's okay, Dad. Don't worry.

- My father.
- Yes.

Another of your bloody women?

I'm talking to you!

- He's a bit-
- It's all right.

I hope she has a decent ass.
Not like the last one!

- Try to ignore him.
- I'm used to all this.

The elderly get aggressive.

My father certainly does.

We go through so many caregivers,
you've no idea.

The toughest one
lasted only two hours.

You can't blame them, can you?

I don't blame them at all.
I say caregivers are angels in disguise.

I meant old people.
You can't blame them.

Most of them are scared
of being alone...

scared of being abandoned...

scared of the darkness.

Now you mention it,
we leave a light on all night.

It's costly, but never mind.

No, I meant the Darkness,
with a capital “D.”

The black hole, if you like.

Darkness with a capital “D.”
Yes, I see.

What are her tits like?

I hope she has decent tits!

- I'm sorry, really I am.
- It's all right. Don't worry.

- I'll introduce you?
- Then you go.

- I can manage. I've done this before.
- Really?

I nursed my own mother for years.

Same as me.

For years too.

Was yours very ill?

She had an accident.

- A road accident?
- No.

Here's the list.
I always leave it here.

His usual tablets are by his bed.

Keep them out of reach
or he'll throw them at you.

My mobile's here for emergencies.

I work at the Globe,
near the National Library.

I hope she's a decent looker!

Or have you got another old bat?

- Shall we?
- After you.

- Mrs.? Miss?
- Call me Charlotte, please.

My father's Arthur.
He likes to be called Arthur.

This way.

Here we are, Dad.

Charlotte's looking after you tonight.

Good evening, Arthur.

I'm very pleased to meet you.

Bloody hell, she's the worst one yet!

It's 7:00 and time for
Géraldine Castellani...

as every Sunday,
with Songs That Changed My Life.

Her guest this week is
the famous architect and journalist...

Jean Lamarche.

Good evening. The architect
is better known than the journalist...

who finds time to actively support..

Numerous charitable organizations...

and who has recently
been preaching on a daily basis...

to defend the homeless
and the underprivileged.

- Welcome, Jean Lamarche.
- Thank you.

- Your days seem to have more hours than ours do.
- You said it.

When you're doing what you have to do...

and you enjoy doing it too...

God gives you the time to do it.

It's that simple.

- You just have to stay focused.
- Yeah, yeah.

Take things one day at a time.

Where are you?

Answer me, you slag!
Where have you got to?

I'm coming.

I was just heating your soup up.

Three months to heat cat's piss?

Here we are, Arthur.
Lovely soup.

Tomato and basil.

The perfect soup.

Doesn't it look good?
Shall I put it down here?

It's too late. I don't want it.
Take the bog water away.

You've won, you scrubber!

Clean up the bloody mess
and sod off!

I told you. I don't want soup.
I want a sandwich!

I'll make you a sandwich then.

About bloody time,
you blithering idiot!

It'll just take a minute.

That's better out than in.

- Same again, sir?
- Please.

Stick it on my tab.

Thanks very much.

As I was saying before my bladder
rudely interrupted...

it isn't easy.

- It isn't easy at all.
- I'm sure it isn't, sir.

I'm talking about my fiancée, Nicole.

You remember Nicole?

She goes on at me day and night
to stir myself...

to start moving...

and even do both at once.

And I tell her...

“I just got out of the army, and I take
the first job that comes along?”

Six months ago,
I was a carefree career soldier...

moving up steadily
through the ranks...

heading for a bright future.

Next bloody minute, through no fault
of my own, I'm out on my ear.

I see.

- You see what?
- I mean-

- Excuse me.
- Yes, sir.

- Same again.
- Gin and tonic and an orange juice?

I mean, what they did-

What my men did was wrong.
Very wrong.

I'm not disputing that.

But the fact is,
I didn't know about it.

If I had known,
I'd have stopped it, of course.

All right, I was the senior officer.

I was the only officer present, yes.

For the army, that makes me
the can carrier. The buck stopper.

But I didn't know it was happening,
so how could I have stopped it?

I mean, how could I?

Quite.

There ain't no justice.

There ain't no justice,
old chum, is there?

- Certainly isn't. Same again, sir?
- Same again.

Then I'll be getting home
before my baby locks me out.

Next week,
Géraldine Castellani will play...

the songs that changed
theologian Roger Monnier's life.

- Oh, no!
- Now Jet's join the whole gang of The Big Parade...

on a visit to a very strange farm...

where the ponies
have a few tricks in store.

I don't believe it.

I just don't believe it.

I just don't-

Bugger off, you stupid cow!

Bugger off, will you?

You scrubber! You ugly fart!

Where do you hide your tits?
You haven't got any, have you?

Just a slab of cement!

Get back to your kennel, you bitch!
I don't want you.

Go on. Get out of here!

Leave me alone.

We're closing, sir.
Time to go home now.

Old chum, I would appreciate
just one more drink.

- Sorry, sir.
- Just the one.

We're closed.
Try the lounge downstairs.

They'll probably serve you
even if you're not a hotel guest.

I don't want to.
I hate going downstairs!

I can't miss my metro.
Good night, sir.

Lionel, good old Lionel.

- My chum, my old mate, my good mate!
- Good night, sir.

Red, red, red.

What a bloody dump.
I'm never drinking here again.

Never again! You hear me?

This is the last time.

Positively the last time!

It's over!

Sorry, I was miles away.

- Everything all right?
- Fine.

I checked. He's fast asleep.

That's good news.

Let's not wake him.
Maybe I'll get some sleep myself.

- He wasn't too-
- Not at all.

We had a few breakages.
Nothing too serious.

Just a couple of plates.

Just a couple?

You've done very well.

We hardly have a matching cup
and saucer left anyway.

I noticed when I was washing up.

- I took the liberty.
- That's kind. You shouldn't have.

There was such a pile, I thought-

Yes, a towering pile.

With my job, I find it hard-
Things pile up.

I don't mean to interfere at all, but...

don't you feel your father
might be better off-

How can I put it?
With professional care?

- You mean, in a home?
- Yes.

- With proper medical care.
- Oh, no, no.

No, I promised him
I'd never put him in such a place.

There are marvelous ones...

with the proper treatment
and correct medication.

No, thank you. He belongs here.
No place like home.

- But surely there comes a time-
- I swore I'd keep him.

Let's not exaggerate.

As his doctor says,
his case is far from desperate.

Over excitement is bad for his heart.

But otherwise-

I get the feeling
he's overexcited fairly often.

That's nothing.

You should see him
get really overexcited.

His leg's not getting better,
but the doctor says...

I can keep him at home
unless, of course...

the situation...

worsens mentally.

Well, it's your decision,
and yours alone.

In any case, he's lucky to have you.

You're truly a good man.

I'm not so sure of that.

But thank you for saying so.

Does that help?

My Bible?

Let's say it's a comfort.

I need it in moments of stress.

It's good to have
something to cling to.

Yes, that's right.

Well, I'd best be going.

- I'll see to that.
- Don't bother.

I know where to get a cab.

- Thanks, but I have Alice.
- Alice?

Alice is my little car.

Old but reliable.
She'll see me home safely.

- You're sure?
- Yes.

Alice and I go everywhere.
She's never a problem.

Do you need petrol money?

The only thing I need, sir,
is my coat.

Here we are.

I'm parked just round the corner.

Good-bye.

I'll see you tomorrow then.

You're coming back tomorrow?
That's good news.

Actually, I think I'm here
for the week at least.

Until your usual caregiver gets back.

Wonderful. I thought you'd pack it in
like the others.

I'd understand.

No, sir, I don't run.
I face a challenge.

Life is full of trials
that paralyze you.

But if you don't overcome them,
that makes him too happy.

- Who? God?
- No, the devil.

- The devil loves you to give in.
- Okay.

God expects you to take up
the challenge and resist.

That's why he sends you these trials.

Well, good night.

See you tomorrow.

Good night.

I'll see you to your car.
I'll feel better.

Nicole. Nicolette.

All right, don't answer.

Go ahead. Don't say a word.

I couldn't care less.

I've broken my leg.

Oh, no, no!

- Hello!
- It's me.

What are you watching?

I'm watching-I'm watching football.

Football? You hate football.

That's what I was thinking too.

All right?

- Excellent. Had a good evening?
- Terrific.

- How were the girls?
- Great.

- Had a good time?
- The usual.

- You didn't watch the game?
- Of course not.

- You haven't eaten?
- It was inedible.

I knew it.
Shall I cut you some cold meat?

No, I'm all right.

I can whip up a salad too.

No, I'm fine.

You can't go to bed
on an empty stomach.

- I'm not hungry.
- Don't like this.

Are you running a temperature?

Cup of tea? Coffee? Sandwich?
I'll make a sandwich.

Nothing?

You'll be restless.
I'm glad I don't sleep with you.

- I'll clear this away.
- Thank you.

- You're sure you're okay?
- I'm sure.

Just a bit tired, that's all.

You look like a metro ran over you.

- Did you watch your tape?
- My what?

The one whatsit
gave you at work-Charlotte.

Yes, I watched it.

- Any good?
- Boring.

- Even for me?
- Especially for you.

Not your style at all.

All right.

I'll have a shower and go to bed.

Switch everything off.

- Good night.
- See you in the morning.

Sure you're not sick or something?

No, I'm fine.

Sleep well.

It's tiny.

Not that tiny.

- It's minute.
- It's not bad.

I'm not living here.

What's going on?

We wanted three bedrooms.
Why do they show us flats with two?

- I said we'd consider two.
- What?

- I asked to see two-room places.
- I don't believe it.

Three-room flats
are thin on the ground, he says.

- What does he know?
- He's an estate agent!

Sure. He's a joker without a thing
in his books, more like.

The guy's a clown.

Tell him that from me.
He's a joker.

He'd prefer to hear it from you.

Wait for him.
He'll be here soon.

I see loads of ads for three rooms.

There are too many
to fit in the papers.

- Really?
- Haven't you ever read a newspaper?

- Why didn't you call?
- Call who?

One of the three million places to rent!

You could have done something
instead of leaving it all to me.

Calm down, Nicole, please.

I'm sick of it, Dan.
Frankly, I'm totally disgusted.

You're a lovely little thing.

Cut it out.

- You don't like it?
- I keep saying it: Two rooms aren't enough.

I need a study.
It's simple enough.

I'll leave you the living room,
the master bedroom, the bathroom.

Like I said,
you leave everything to me.

When it comes to the study,
I'm standing my ground.

- Why do you need one?
- What?

- What?
- Stop saying “what”!

Just like your father! “What? What? What?”
Every time you speak to him!

“What? What? What?” - What?

- What?
- What did you just say?

It doesn't matter.

Please forgive me.

The curse of our times.
Vital, but such a nuisance.

So, what do you think of it?

Well-

We both rather feel-

it's a bit small for our requirements.

I said it might be, didn't I, Nicole?

- We wanted three real rooms for-
- A happy event?

What?

So Dan can have an afternoon nap.

Like his father.

I think that covers it all.

Shall we be going?

Yes, I'm late for work.

After you.

Thank you.

If you please.

- Hello.
- Hello.

- Any luck?
- It's not what they wanted.

I knew, but they insisted on seeing it.

It's a lovely location.

It's perfect, with a wonderful view.

- Anything new here?
- Not a lot.

All right. By the way,
I must return that video you lent me.

There's no hurry.
Did you enjoy it?

Yes, very much. Good program.

I love it!
I adore hearing what people chose.

The differences are fascinating.

Classical for some,
hymns or oratorios for others.

Some even choose rap music.

It takes all sorts.

Thanks for introducing me to it.
I'll watch it from now on.

- Unless your sister objects.
- Sorry?

It could mess up her ludo evening.

Her evening.

No. Video is a blessing of modern life.

Before, you'd stay stuck to your TV...

or you'd miss the best programs.

- That's true.
- But now, you pop in a tape...

set the timer, press “record”...

and you're all set to go out.

Right.

And the amazing thing is,
you keep using the tape.

Once you've seen it,
you rewind it and record again.

You could get by with one tape.

Or two, say.

You start again.
No matter what was there before.

Press the button and you're off.

It comes and goes.

It'll last forever. Brilliant.

You have a lovely smile.

When you smile-
You should smile more often.

I'll try to remember.

Would you care to see another?

Another... Another episode.
I can lend you one if you like.

- Yes, I would.
- I'll get you one from my car later.

- Grand.
- Bring the other back.

- Of course.
- I may want to record over it.

I'll bring it in tomorrow.

I'll get going.
I'll try to hunt out a three-room flat.

Always on the alert.

You can say that again.

See you later.

Good luck.

That's better?!

You know, the thing about women-

not that I have
anything against them-

is they don't recognize
our need for solitude.

You can't deny it.

Man is a solitary animal,
from time to time.

- Is that absurd?
- Not at all, sir.

Males need to be alone.
Females, never.

That's why so few
go into space or drive cabs.

- Or keep lighthouses.
- Whereas men are ideal lighthouse keepers.

Still, no man is an island.

That's true too.

But I don't think
Nicole and I can go on like this.

When I speak, she snaps.
She never listens.

We don't communicate. It's tough.

Very tough.

I don't know what to do.

The harder I try, the worse it gets.

What would you do?

Me?
How can I possibly answer that, sir?

You can.

You're at the hub of the universe here.

Take a break.

Step back.
It'll do you both good.

- You think so?
- No harm in trying.

True, her flat is tiny.
There's no room to breathe.

There you have it.

But...

do you know how a fellow steps back?

By seeing someone else for a change.

- Someone else?
- Yes.

Just temporarily.

Like I did a few years ago.

We weren't going anywhere,
so we agreed to part for a while.

We soon saw we were a good match...

so we got back together for good.

And lived happily ever after.

Happily, yes, but not for long.

She dumped you?

No, she died.

I'm sorry.

That's a terribly sad story.

It was a long time ago.

Terribly sad.

Anyhow...

sorry to get back to me...

but if I see someone-

- Just temporarily.
- How do I find someone?

I don't meet anyone these days.

- Put an ad in a paper or a magazine.
- What?

Or try a dating agency.
Or even the Internet.

No, forget that.

- I couldn't do that.
- You'd be surprised. It works.

Those girls seem dodgy.

And a dodgy girl
won't be much help to me.

She can be more trouble
than she's worth.

Depends how dodgy you are.

Same again, sir?

Yes, same again.

I need the gents' again.

It's only me. I'm home.

Hi!

Just a minute.

- All right?
- Hi, Lélette.

- Everything okay?
- Fine.

Good.

- Off out again?
- Not just yet.

- A cup of tea?
- I'd love one.

Here or in the kitchen?

Let's live dangerously
and go to the kitchen!

The kettle's boiling.

Lovely.

Don't give me piss-weak tea, you ape!

Can't I get a hot woman for once
instead of a rotten old trout?

Where are you?
You're not only ugly, you're idle too!

But-

- At last.
- Yes.

You're still up?

I thought you'd be asleep.

You couldn't sleep?

No, I couldn't sleep.

What?

Listen to me.

Are you listening?

Are you totally drunk?

Not totally. A little but not totally.

Like me.

I've had most of a bottle.

God, what's happening to us?

I decided something.
I came to a decision tonight.

- So did I.
- Well, I'll go first.

I want us to separate.

Go away for a while.

I need to be alone.

- Alone?
- For awhile, yes.

Go tonight. We need to be apart.

Just for a while.

That's what I'd decided too.

Really?

That's good.
At least we agree on something.

We both need to step back.

Yes.

Indeed we do.

You realize I could meet someone?

That's a risk we take.

I could meet someone too.

You?

Why not?

I'm still fairly presentable.

My God. You're fabulous.

- You're radiant, a real stunner.
- Not this.

- I don't need this now.
- You have the face of a goddess!

- Stop, please.
- No, I don't want to stop. Let me finish.

I'm not listening.

And your body, my darling.
Your body-

Your body is like that
of another fucking goddess-

Shut the hell up now!

And get out of here.

All right.

If that's what you want.

Sorry, I can't cope.

Your things are ready in the hall.

They are?

See you.

Well...

I'll be off then.

I'm off.

But... I don't know where.

Your parents' place?

Oh, no.

My father's there at the moment.
He wouldn't let me in.

Don't worry.

I'll find somewhere.

Right. Ciao.

Ciao.

Al things must end, Roger Monnier..

And it's now time
to choose your last song.

I'm going to pick the hymn
“Onward Christian Soldiers.”

Any special reason?

To be honest,
wherever I am in the world...

and whatever mischief I'm up to...

if I feel a bit down,
a few bars of this song...

immediately cheer me up again.

Roger Monnier, soldier, poet,
novelist and landscape gardener..

Thank you for being my guest.

Thank you. Thank you all.

And a rather unusual criminal.

I shall say no more.

That's her. It has to be her.

It's Charlotte. I'm sure it is.

What on earth are you watching?

You're back already?

- Where did you get that?
- It was on TV.

I skipped channels, and-
How can they show such rubbish?

What channel was it?

- Actually-
- What?

- It wasn't the TV.
- A tape?

You were watching a tape?

It was from a guy at work.
He played a trick on me!

You were sitting here alone
watching a porn video?

That's too pathetic for words.

It's so sad, so incredibly sad.

It was nothing, Lélette.
Nothing at all.

What's happening to us?
God, what's happening to us?

Thank heavens.

Good evening.

- Everything all right?
- Yes, he's asleep. I just checked.

- You're gifted.
- Thank you.

It's been a long day.

Would you like a hot drink?
Tea or coffee?

Thank you, but don't worry about me.

Get off home.
Your day must have been long too.

It certainly was.

Well, if you really don't
need anything-

I'll see you to your car.

- Don't move.
- I prefer to. This area-

- Round the corner are you?
- Just a bit further.

- Thank you.
- It's serious stuff.

Some of it's pretty uncompromising.
Id forgotten.

Uncompromising?

Unforgiving, say.

Forgiveness comes later.

It does? When?

In the New Testament.

I see.

In the end,
we're all judged and forgiven.

All right, I see.

As your father
will forgive you one day.

My father? Why should he-

He's still angry with you, Lionel.
You can't deny that.

I don't know why,
but he holds something against you.

Perhaps he had other hopes for you.

That's often why our parents-

Did your mother pass away long ago?

She died three years ago.

My father left us when I was 15.

She lived here until she died.

I came back to look after her.
My relationship had just ended.

She was so-

She had-

Well, it wasn't easy. It was-

I'm sorry. It's hard to talk about.

After she died, my father fell ill.

I saw very little of him.

But when I heard he was ill,
I offered to look after him.

The woman he was living with
at the time wasn't-

How can I put it?

All she wanted was-

Never mind.

He moved back in, and here we are today.

Why did he leave?

Why?

Sorry, it's personal.

I'm sorry. Of course.

I say he left us,
but actually my mother-

She was a very strong woman
in her prime.

She was a remarkable woman, in fact.

I admired her in so many ways.

And then, with her illness-

The poor woman was in so much pain,
despite the drugs.

I'm well aware she was someone...

quite extraordinary.

She-

I think she felt,
rightly or wrongly, that my father...

was a bad influence.

- A bad influence?
- On me.

She was convinced of it.

My father wanted-How can I put it?

To interfere with my upbringing,
and she didn't agree.

I think you're probably right.

My father is disappointed-

disappointed by
the way I've turned out.

But I am what I am.

What can we be
apart from what we are?

I often tell myself that.

Anyway, she asked him to leave.

She threw him out of the house
and out of our lives.

It's very late.
I'm making you do overtime.

See you tomorrow?

See you tomorrow.

- Same time?
- Same time.

Well-

I did say it wasn't right for you.

Your fiancé will find it cramped.

It's more for a single person.

There's no room for a study.

Right.

I need to think about it.

Don't take too long.
This one will be snapped up quite fast.

We've had other inquiries,
and this is a desirable area.

Morning.

You're bright and early today, sir.
The usual?

No, just passing through.
My morning constitutional.

- A constitutional? Really?
- A quick walk to get a breath of fresh air.

- I'm starting a new life today.
- Glad to hear it, sir.

But why take a constitutional
in a hotel?

I'm living here now.
I'm a hotel guest.

Not for long though.
My attic broom closet here costs a fortune.

You're paying for the name.

And nothing else.
I don't even get shampoo.

- No?
- Not even a tiny sample, in a four-star hotel.

And just one slipper.

- One-
- Slipper. You heard.

Must be the Long John Silver Suite.

Slipper or not,
I'm turning a new leaf.

Just like we said.
I settled it with Nicole last night.

We're stepping back and taking stock.

It upset her, but frankly,
I feel a thousand times better already.

- That's good, sir.
- Another thing. I took your advice.

For the ad. I've placed one.

What did you put exactly?

Tall, good-looking, single man...

ex-army, fighting fit.

G.S.O.H. They all put that.
What does it mean?

Good Sense Of Humor, sir.

Good-

I thought it was sexual.
Good-sized Old Henry.

Anyhow, it worked.
I've already had a bite.

- No!
- Yes, meeting up tonight.

Congratulations, sir.
Whereabouts?

A bar on rue Oberkampf.

- Oberkampf?
- Do you know it?

- Not really, sir.
- Me neither. She chose it.

I'll see you later.
Around lunchtime probably.

See you later, sir.
Be careful on rue Oberkampf.

Don't worry. A new leaf.

I'm living again. Living again!

- Sorry, I was in the-
- I do beg your pardon.

- You needed something?
- No, I just wanted... to return your videos.

There's no hurry.

- So, did you-
- Wonderful, better than the last one.

I'm so glad you liked it.

- A superb program.
- Really? You preferred the second one?

By far.

I can't find the words, but-

We've worked together for a while,
yet I don't really know you.

I mean, who you are really...

apart from a wonderful colleague
and a friend too, I hope.

But that's as far as it goes.

But we've never really talked
about who we are deep down inside.

Perhaps that's only natural.

It can be hard to express
that kind of thing in words.

I mean, words can conceal
your true personality.

Whereas a laugh or a smile at times-

Don't you feel that too?
Does that make any sense?

Yes, I think so.

You're a beautiful woman.
You should know that.

What you've shown me of yourself,
your face, your body, your-

It's all very beautiful.
I wanted you to know that.

Thank you.

And I-It-

It's so powerful.
I'm overwhelmed, truly...

completely.

What's the matter with you? Are you mad?

I'm sorry.
Please, I beg you, forgive me.

- Are you out of your mind?
- I thought-

Please forgive me.

Yes? Mr. Lafarge, yes.

Not at all.

Yes, all right.

I spoke to the owner, actually...

and he'd like to see your pay slips.

Hello? Hi, Mum.
Did you get my message?

Everything's fine, yes.

I promise you, I'm fine.
Why wouldn't I be?

He's fine too. No, he's fine.

We're both fine, Mom.
Everything's fine.

Stop it!
Mom, I can't talk to you now.

There are two people waiting.
I have to go.

Yes. I'm absolutely fine.

Absolutely fine.

It's a bit warmer.

Yes, it's milder out.
Sorry, I'm a little late.

- He's in a foul mood tonight.
- I can take it.

- Been shopping?
- It's nothing special.

Look at the time. I'm late.

Off you go. Leave him to me.

See you later.

- Shit, fish-face is back!
- Good evening.

The situation isn't worsening
but may not improve...

since six new rescue teams-

Of course. But, frankly-

Let's try to make things clear.

We can't treat
every prostate around.

Where's fish-face gone?
Back to the sea?

Just a minute.

Sophia?

- Yes.
- Martin.

- Hi.
- How are you?

May I sit down?

Yes, please do.

Thanks.

- Lively place.
- Very.

Makes you want to move your body.

Yes.

- You have a sense of humor. Wonderful.
- I hope so.

Believe me, you have one.
I'm an expert.

- Really?
- Yes.

Something wrong?

- No, but-
- But?

You're exactly like your description.

- And?
- Well, the description rarely matches.

Someone who puts 26 is usually 46...

someone tall is this high...

wavy hair usually means bald.

That's why I'm surprised.

You're tall, you're good looking-

- Just like it said.
- Thank you.

- Was I hard to recognize?
- Not at all.

I just looked for the prettiest girl...

and here I am!

The flower helped a bit
but not that much.

Yes.

- Coffee?
- Coffee?

No, no coffee.

So...

you're used to this kind of thing?

Not really.

I tried it once or twice
along time ago.

Personally...

I'm not at all familiar with the rules.

I'm not sure where we go from here.

That's up to us.

It's good to meet in a place
with plenty of people around.

It's safer, if you see what I mean.
For the woman.

Of course.
No one wants to get murdered.

No, no. I was silly enough to meet someone
in quite a deserted place once...

and, before I knew it,
I got molested.

Really?

What on earth had you done?

Molested!

I'm sorry, I thought you said
you got arrested.

Molested!

I'm sorry. That's terrible.
How did you get away?

- I bit him.
- Sorry, I can't hear you with this noise.

We don't have to stay.
We can go somewhere quieter.

That's not a bad idea.

We could have a real conversation.

If I've passed the first round of tests.

I mean...

If you're convinced I'm not
a professional rapist.

- I try my luck.
- No chance of it. I hate being bitten.

I promise I won't.

Very good.

Where shall we go then?

You choose.

Shall we get a drink?
Just the one.

And maybe something to eat.
My treat, of course.

No, not on a first meeting.

Why not? I imagine some things
are out on a first date...

but where's the harm
in drinking and eating?

No, I meant you paying for me.
We should go Dutch.

Sorry, you've found
a hard-line macho.

The guy pays, not the girl.

All right.
But I'll pay next time.

Supposing there is
a next time, of course.

There'd better be.
I want a return on my investment.

Let's go. I know just the place.

Get back in here right now, fish-face...

or I'm wetting this bed!

I'll soak the sheets.
That'll teach you, you tart!

All right, here I come,
you horrible little man.

Now then, Arthur dear.

Oh, my God.

It's beautiful.

I like it. I come here now and then.
It's very handy.

It's close to most things.

Shall we sit at the bar
and look at the menu?

- Why not?
- Right.

They're busy tonight.

This is Sophia.
My friend Sophia.

Meet the admirable Lionel.

- Good evening, madam.
- Good evening.

- What can I get you?
- Sophia?

What I'd really like is a devil's tail.

- A what?
- A devil's tail. Certainly.

Haven't made one in a long time.

A devil's tail?
Got that in stock?

Ice, rum, vodka, lime juice, grenadine...

and a dash of apricot brandy?

- Delicious.
- Coming right up.

I'll have my usual.

You look just like a Sophia.

When did you start drinking those?

When I was working down in Nice
with the other girls.

- Get the idea?
- More or less, yes.

We'd have these wild nights out
all the time.

It's different now.
I work in a smaller company here.

- So you were in the army?
- Yes.

I got out three weeks ago.

And now?

I'm looking for a job I like.
It isn't easy.

I mean, choosing isn't easy.

I had a good commission,
a promising career...

and suddenly I have to start
from scratch.

- It takes time to adjust.
- It must.

Why did you leave the army?

Why? It's complicated.

Let's say I had no choice.

- Why? Were you wounded?
- What?

Were you wounded?

Actually, I was invalided out.

Really? Was it serious?

I'd rather not talk about it.

Of course. I'm sorry.

Everything's fine though.

Don't get that idea.

I'm in full working order.

I'm sure you are.

You look in working order too.

I think I am.

Splendid!

One devil's tail.

- And one large scotch.
- That'll stick you to the ceiling.

I hope not. I hate heights.

- Thank you very much.
- You're welcome.

Bring a ladder to help her down
from the chandelier.

Martin, please!

- Can you tell him to stop teasing me?
- Who, madam?

Martin. Tell him to stop it.

- Stop it, Martin.
- All right.

- Well, cheers.
- Cheers.

- Is that good?
- Delicious.

- Good as you remember?
- Even better. Want a sip?

Let's find a table.
These stools are unsteady.

Would you prefer a table?
There's one over there.

- Lead the way.
- All right.

Gaëlle, is that you?

That'll keep you quiet for a bit,
you old pig.

- Thanks again!
- You're welcome.

- I imagined the worst.
- I'm so sorry. I got locked in the ladies'.

I was scared you'd have left.

- Not another?
- You asked for one.

- Did I?
- Yes.

You wanted another mixture.
This one's a mad dog.

- What's in it?
- He wrote it down.

A Lionel special.

“White rum, vodka, coconut cream...

blue curaçao, fresh cream
and pineapple juice.”

Fine. As long as there's no gin.

- Gin makes me drunk. Cheers!
- Cheers.

It's the last one.

Good idea. I think they've run out.

We'll meet again, won't we?

- Promise me we'll meet again.
- Of course we will.

I mean, I don't want this
to be a one-night stand.

Stand? That's not likely,
the state we're both in.

I'm serious, Martin.
I'm serious.

I promise, Sophia.
We'll meet again.

You're so good looking.

I'm a bit tipsy,
but you're so good looking.

- Oh, come on.
- It's true, Martin. You're a good-looking man.

And I don't deserve you.

- Why on earth not?
- I'm boring. You've no idea how boring I am.

I'm not buying that.

I know what I'm like.
Sometimes I bore myself to sleep.

Compared to you-
a hero, wounded in battle and so on.

What am I with my boring life?

I'm not in the army now.

- But you were. And your father was too.
- True.

- I bet your grandfather was too.
- He was in the navy.

They must be so incredibly proud of you.

Proud isn't the word.

You're modest.
I'm sure they're proud.

Believe me, they aren't.
My father doesn't even speak to me.

Really? Why?

It's complicated.

Basically, I can't go home
when he's there.

When he's away,
I go to see my mother.

Or she comes up to Paris.
It depends.

That's so sad.

- What happened?
- Maybe I'll tell you one day.

Right now, I can't.
And I don't want to.

They're turning off the tables-
the lights, I mean.

- Perhaps we should be going.
- Yes.

- I'll get you a taxi.
- No.

- I insist.
- I can get a bus.

You're not getting a bus
at this time of night.

All right, in that case
we'll share a taxi.

How about that?

Are you going in my direction?

I don't think so.

- Where do you live?
- Here.

Here?

In this hotel.

- You didn't tell me that.
- No.

I didn't tell you.

We'll ask Georges at reception.

Good old Georges.
He'll find you one.

All right?

Yes, but I can't finish my drink,
I'm afraid.

Never mind.

- Martin?
- Yes?

Thank you.

I've had a lovely evening.
Thank you.

I hope we'll meet again soon.

Why not?

What about tomorrow?

- Tomorrow?
- Well, we've nearly run out of today.

You're right. See you tomorrow.

- For lunch?
- For lunch.

It'd be torture for me
to wait till dinner.

Lunch is fine.

I have to tell you.

My name's not Martin. I lied.

- So what's your name?
- Daniel. But they call me Dan.

Dan's much nicer.

- I love Dan.
- Really?

Shall we go, Dan?

After you, Sophia.

Thank you.

My name's not Sophia either.

Thank God for that.

I'm sorry, I-

I was looking for something I dropped.

- It's doesn't matter. Nothing important.
- Everything all right?

Fine. I think he's asleep.
I'll get my coat.

He's sleeping like a baby.
You handle him well.

- Are you ready?
- Yes.

- Round the corner?
- As usual.

I'll see you to your car.

It's odd, that big smile on his face.

Father hasn't smiled like that for ages.

Where are we? This st it.

Who put that there?

What's going on?
Where have you been?

Get off my back!

- Are you drunk?
- Can't you see I am, stupid?

Stop seeing those girls.
They're a bad influence!

- What girls? I was out with a man tonight.
- A man?

A man, yes. A real man.

- Who?
- Martin. No, Daniel. Dan.

I was with Dan.
Not Tintin or Martin.

How many of them?

Just one. But a real man.

Not like you, fondling himself
in front of the TV.

- Let's get you to bed.
- Don't touch me!

Don't you dare touch me!

I won't let some sex maniac
tell me what to do!

Hello?

Anyone here? Anyone here?

I'm sorry.
Have you been here long?

No, I just walked in.

Id like to see-Is Thierry here?

Just a minute. I'll check.

Of course, you're Mrs.- Miss-

Tell him Nicole is here.

That's right.

Your client's here.

I don't know.

Miss? Wasn't our meeting
set for lunchtime?

Quite right, it was.

But I was passing by, so I thought-

Good idea.

- I'm stopping.
- Sorry?

- Our search. I'm calling it off. Forget it.
- Really?

Sorry to have put you
to so much trouble.

No, these things happen.
All part of the job.

Maybe. But I'm sorry anyway.

My pleasure.

You haven't changed your mind
for anything serious, I hope.

No, we just changed our minds,
that's all.

Well, I'll be going.
I have to get to work.

If I change my mind again,
I'll come back to see you first.

I'd be delighted.

You'll always be welcome.
Good-bye.

Good-bye, Mrs.- Miss.

Good-bye.

There we go.

What did she want?

They're not looking anymore.
She came to tell me.

That's a pity.

Trouble between them, you think?

Could be.
Unless they've gone elsewhere.

- That's likely too.
- That's life.

- Yes.
- You win some, you lose some.

Yes?

- I really need to talk to you.
- I'm not making you, I hope.

No, it's me. I really need to.

My behavior yesterday
was unacceptable.

It was outright sexual harassment.

You'd be right to complain
to head office.

But believe me.

I never meant any disrespect towards
you as a colleague and a person.

I have endless admiration for both.

I give you my word
that it won't happen again.

I humbly ask you to forgive me.

Should you refuse and decide
to pursue the matter further...

I won't hold that against you.

Thank you.

There. That's said.

I'm a practicing Christian
and I do my best...

to adhere to Christ's teachings.

- You don't have to-
- No, please, let me finish.

Thanks to that religion...

and to my strong faith in it...

I find it in my heart to forgive you.

That's it.

Thank you.

Remember, our Lord warned us
that temptation is everywhere.

We must be on our guard
constantly to resist it.

Of course.

Right, I'll get back to work.

Yes?

Maybe you'd like to watch this.

A little gift,
as a sort of peace offering.

Would you?

Yes, of course.

- Sorry, I don't feel very well.
- Nothing serious?

No, I'll be all right, but...

I think I'll use the cancellation
to go home and rest.

Could you hold the fort?

Of course. Go on home.

- Will you manage?
- Don't worry.

I'm a big girl.

Thank you.

- See you later.
- See you tomorrow.

And remember-Be strong!

Hello, sir. The usual?

Not just yet, if you don't mind.

I'm a bit early actually.
I won't start without her.

As you like, sir.
Help yourself to nuts.

- Excuse me, please.
- Yes, sir?

A gin and tonic.

Hello.

How are you?

- I knew I'd find you here.
- Really? Why?

Because you're here day and night.

Your mother said you've moved in now.

So it was her.

What are those flowers for?

I don't know.

I had a sudden urge to buy flowers.

You know, a sort of impulse.

Have you met someone else already?

That was quick. Well done.

Nothing's final yet.

I'm beginning to play the field.

If you have met someone,
you can tell me.

It doesn't bother me
one way or the other.

- Really?
- Not at all.

- So why are you here?
- To say good-bye properly.

Eye to eye, calmly...

with dignity...

like two people
who've lived together for ages.

Ages, yes.

I wanted us to part as friends.

The other night was horrible.

You were drunk,
and I was mad with rage.

We deserve better, right?

We've come a long way, hand in hand.

I read your letters last night...

the very first ones.

Do you remember?

Like it was yesterday.

You were so innocent then.

I loved the questions
you asked about women.

You asked about how we felt.

The way women feel inside.

Only natural to be interested.

And now?

- What?
- Are you interested in how I feel now?

Not really?

Not at all even.

You're wrong.

Not as interested as I was, true.

But I'm older now.

We're both older, aren't we?

Yes.

We're not as interesting now.

- Is that it?
- Don't exaggerate.

For instance, I know exactly
how you feel right now.

- You do?
- Of course.

A piece of cake after so long!

It's easy.

- Can I get you anything, madam?
- No, thank you.

Me neither. Not just yet.

Could we sit somewhere for a minute?

Okay, but I'm meeting someone.

I'll go as soon as she turns up.

Please. I hate sitting at the bar.
Everyone's looking at us.

- Where were we?
- You were saying how you felt.

That's right.

Not that it matters now.

I'm sorry, madam.

I almost married a man
who isn't interested in me.

Calm down. I never said that.

It's all right.

I'm not interested in you either.

On that train coming home
from that ghastly boarding school...

the mere idea of seeing you
for the holidays...

would make my heart leap.

It used to sing, as the poets say.

But coming here to see you today,
my heart...

was all crushed and tiny.

Sorry. That's life.

I know.

Don't be angry with me.
Neither of us is to blame.

I won't say good-bye.
I'll see you again.

We can't avoid each other.

Good-bye. Take care of yourself.

I hope you'll be happy
with the next one. I really do.

- Excuse me, sir.
- Yes?

- The young lady from last night-
- Yes?

- She came in, saw you and left.
- What?

I thought you should know.
The other lady-

- Where is she?
- She left.

I'm sure you can explain things to her.

How? I don't have her number.
I don't even know her name!

I don't even know
if she lives in Paris.

Shit! shit!

Dear, dear, dear.

I'm sorry.

I tried calling your mobile
to tell you not to come.

I was driving.
I'm very law abiding.

I heard your message as I got here.

- He's in the hospital?
- Yes.

He slept like a baby after you left...

but then woke around 4:00
with chest pains.

He couldn't breathe properly.

I gave him his tablets,
thinking it was a little fit.

They calmed him down...

but he was still...

hyperactive.

I think that's the word.

So when Lily got here-
She's his morning caregiver.

A very reliable woman, Lily.

When she got here,
I told her to stay with him.

He seemed much calmer,
so I went off to work.

Then two hours ago,
Joëlle phoned me.

Joëlle does afternoons.
She's not as reliable.

But anyhow...

she phoned to say he was in a bad way.

I called his doctor who, luckily,
was in the neighborhood.

They took him straight in.

I was just packing a few things.

- I don't know for how long.
- What a worry for you.

Sorry to bring you all the way here.

I'll pray for him.
I'll pray for both of you.

Would you like some tea? There's no rush.
I think they've sedated him.

- Thank you. I'm all right.
- Sit down for a minute.

If you're sure you don't need to go.

What a crazy day.

It all seems so quiet now.

I'm sure he'll be home soon.

I hope so.

But I'm not so sure.

His mind's taken a turn
for the worse.

I know he wasn't always...
very rational, as you know.

- But he's having hallucinations.
- Hallucinations?

Last night, I was sitting with him...

and he started rambling-
incredible things.

- Very risqué stuff. It was quite worrying.
- What about?

All manner of things.

- Sexual, mainly.
- Sexual?

Mainly.

- He mentioned you a lot.
- Me?

Yes. He-

I can't. It's too embarrassing.

He'd seen you dancing
at the foot of his bed.

Dancing?

Naked.

Sorry, I shouldn't have said.
It's embarrassing for you.

- Dancing naked?
- And other things too.

- No!
- Yes.

A whole list of them.

I couldn't even begin to repeat them.

What will happen if they keep him?

What will happen to you?

I don't know.

Will you cope?

Probably.

Thank God I have my job.

I could move away,
but I've been here forever.

This is my home.

It's not much,
but it's full of memories.

So many things I've loved.

Is it your brother in the photo?

No, a friend.

- He's dead now.
- I'm sorry.

It was years ago.

I wish I had your inner strength.

Your faith.

The comfort it brings you.

But I'm afraid I can't.

God up there somewhere in his heaven...

and hellfire waiting for us below.

I can't believe all that.

Id like to.

But I can't.

I suppose we pass through life alone.

If I may say so, Lionel...

I think it's more complex than that.

I'm not a great believer in hell either.

Or in any other form of damnation.

But if hellfire exists,
it's burning within us.

And we feed it
with our weakness and failings.

If we don't try to put it out...

it consumes us.

And even worse, consumes others too.

- It's within us?
- I'm convinced of it.

Even within you?

I must go.

I'll call you to see how he is.

If you don't mind, of course.

Please do.

And pop in if you're passing by.
You'll always be welcome.

But why would you pass by?

You never know.

Thank you.

Good luck.

Don't bother.
I can see myself out.

I nearly forgot. I have this tape.

You have a machine.

Watch it.

You may find it helpful.
I know I did.

There's no harm in trying.

7:00. Time for
Songs That Changed My Life.

This week's guest is
the art critic Annabelle Normand.

Good evening. You see her so often
on TV that she needs no introduction.

It moves me more
than any other tune I know.

Whenever I hear it...

my heart soars.

Mine too, Annabelle.
I never tire of hearing it.

Will be the actor
and comedian Zambo-

Will Lionel be in tonight?

Pity.