The Ordinary People (2009) - full transcript
A pharmaceutical company throws a gala party where all the employees from the top to the bottom are invited. Asked to participate in a role playing game which is actually a massive training simulation for the management team, rumors begin to circulate the the company may be acquired and everyone begins vying to save his or her own skin.
NOTHING PERSONAL
The Newcomer
Good day.
No. Good evening.
Pleased to meet you.
Excuse me.
Yes.
Good day.
Pleased to meet you.
Good day.
Excuse me.
Do you know how to do this?
Thank you.
Nice tie.
It's been 4 years
since our last gathering
at the safety course
which is a great memory...
M, hello, Bruno. How are you?
Natacha Gauthier.
Good day... Good evening.
Nice, isn't it?
Oh, we'll be working together
as of next week.
With the release of Pradex
Head Office wants
to redistribute skills.
I stay in charge of new markets,
but I'll also supervise production.
In production, we're rather...
independent.
I'll just be there to help you
cope with demand.
We expect it to be huge.
I know there's a productivity report
on your unit,
but I'd rather start over.
Get off to a new start.
If you agree...
I didn't know.
First, I'll watch how you work,
then we'll define your needs
in terms of resources.
Excuse me.
I didn't eat before I came.
I'll see if they have any aspirin.
Productivity has gone down
due to poor process control.
You should try benchmarking.
Pardon me?
Compare yourselves
to other factories.
Excuse me. Wouldn't you rather
we discuss it on site?
I won't take anything in tonight.
Let's set a date.
I'm always on site.
Monday?
I don't have my notebook...
Let's say Monday. It'll be 1 week
before the end of your trial period.
You know about that?
See you on Monday.
Gilles Bergerat. Sales executive.
I'm the union representative.
Have you just been hired?
This kind of event is
so people meet each other.
Did someone mention me?
Don't worry,
I'm not here to force people.
I'm sorry.
I'm at the end of my trial period.
Everyone thinks
I have a permanent contract,
so I try to be discreet about it.
I used to work for another lab.
Same job... 15 years I was there.
Then, they restructured
and laid people off.
To me, Muller
marks a fresh start in life.
When does your trial period end?
In 10 days’ time.
When did it start?
Almost a year ago.
That's completely illegal.
There's no job at the end of it?
They prefer staff like you
that are easier to get rid of.
I have 2 kids to feed!
I had to accept a 308 pay cut.
Don't get discouraged.
It's not over yet.
Are you the only one?
I don't know.
Do you have a referent?
- I don't know.
- Look, I'm here to help.
There must be someone
who assesses your trial period.
You'll keep it to yourself?
It's Gauthier-Stevens.
- Mr.?
- Mrs. Natacha. Do you know her?
It's not normal.
You won't say anything?
She wants to increase production
and if I can't handle it on my own
- the night shifts,
the controls, the overtime -
I have to be a bastard with my team.
That kills me.
We'll see how many others there are.
Wait.
We can't let people
behave like that.
If she hears I've talked
I can pack my bags.
I'm dead meat.
You can't carry on like this.
No, leave me alone.
It's my last chance.
Come with me.
She won't dare threaten you.
Are you OK?
It's nothing.
There are laws to protect you.
You're not alone.
What are you doing? You're crazy!
- No...
- It's nothing.
Somebody help!
- Don't call anyone.
- Spit it out!
- Leave me alone.
- Spit it all out.
It's OK...
Let's find an infirmary.
No, it's nothing.
Let me see.
We must do something.
You're crazy.
It's nothing...
Don't worry.
It looks worse than it is.
It's fine...
No, it's nothing.
Everything's alright.
Paper napkins, please.
No, a packet. It's for a...
I won't let you down. I understand,
I won't mention your name.
But I'll look after you.
We'll find a solution, I promise.
- Yes?
- Where’s the boss, Mr. Muller?
He just left.
You might catch him out front.
Sir...
Muller!
I'm sorry.
Do you have anything
in the cloakroom?
They can't find it.
I'll have to come back.
That kind of thing
only happens to me.
Married life
3 words to define
the new packaging.
Clear information, a trendy package,
adapted to the various dosages.
Good. But try to be more concise.
OK, so...
Clear, trendy, well-adapted.
Great. Carry on.
What if the guy claims
his coworkers are underqualified?
I promise him training
for every manager.
No, don't give in too fast
or you'll lose points.
Don't give him the advantage.
Look him straight in the eyes.
Hold his gaze.
Do you use last names?
I don't know.
"We should have started
this discussion, Mr."
"We'll start..." Always be direct.
I don't know, Damien...
Don't get stressed out.
Remember, the guy is just an actor
who learns as little as possible.
He knows nothing about medicine.
Maybe he was a coach
in catering before.
He's a failed actor !
You score 120 points,
40 per coach, and they move you
to Public Relations.
We'll see...
Or you can come to my department.
That'd be possible.
You have some lipstick there.
Is that OK?
Thanks.
training seminar
How are you?
How are the children?
Rozen!
- How are you?
- Fine, and you?
Fine. My wife, Natacha.
Pleased to meet you.
I spent 3 years at MAF,
now I'm at Bryden.
See you later.
Thanks.
- Hi, Damien.
- Hi.
Good evening.
Damien and Natacha Gauthier-Stevens.
Gilles Bergerat is with the boss.
Even the trade unionists
are sucking up to him!
Thanks.
He pushes in front of everyone!
How are you doing?
They don't look that close.
Let's go.
Good day.
No. Good evening.
Pleased to meet you.
Excuse me.
Yes.
Excuse me.
Do you know how to do this?
Nice tie.
Thank you.
Is this yours?
The suit?
You see, that's me, the real me.
A pure cut. Agnès b.
This is my persona.
Just play-acting.
I see.
I act. It's a prop.
Just like you need
your bucket and brush to work.
I'd prefer to do King Lear,
but I'm like you - I have to eat.
Hello. Pleased to meet you.
Oh, no, everything's fine.
Just fine.
Our resistance to competition,
to stay in the race,
despite our human, family size,
we owe it to you.
So, tonight is for you.
It is time. We can't wait
for the latecomers any longer.
I see most of you
have found your partners.
We can thus begin.
The first objective :
get your coach
to increase production.
The test is marked out of 20.
The second objective
is to obtain new working hours.
This is also marked out of 20.
I will announce
each change of coach.
Check the name of your new coach
on the list you were given.
Then, the assessors
each start the countdown.
Mrs. Barbieri
we're short of badges.
- Yes?
- We're counting.
15 or so.
The assessors are complaining.
Too bad.
The tests last 12 minutes
per coach.
M, hello, Bruno. How are you?
Natacha Gauthier.
Good day... Good evening.
Nice, isn't it?
Oh, we'll be working together
as of next week.
With the release of Pradex
Head Office wants
to redistribute skills.
I stay in charge of new markets,
but I'll also supervise production.
In production, we're rather...
independent.
I'll be there to help you
cope with demand.
We expect it to be huge.
I know there's a productivity report
on your unit,
but I'd rather start over.
Get off to a new start.
If you agree...
I didn't know.
First, I'll watch how you work,
then we'll define your needs.
Does the clinic director know?
He's normally the one I speak to.
The clinic director
deals with manufacturing techniques
and compliance with norms.
I make sure
production stays on target.
But that's my job!
No, not exactly...
What use am I, then?
Don't take it that way.
You're at the heart of the system...
You're trying to sideline me.
Excuse me.
I didn't eat before I came.
I'll see if they have any aspirin.
What’s going on?
8 minutes left.
He's gone.
It's a cocktail situation.
...you're not pleased to be here,
but don't worry...
Excuse me.
I won't let you go!
So I see.
Productivity has gone down
due to poor process control.
You should try benchmarking.
Pardon me?
Compare yourselves
to other factories.
We do.
Seriously?
And where are the results?
In my head.
You don't have enough perspective.
When did you last
test your production line...
Laurent?
You could remember my name.
When did you last
test your production line, Bruno?
Since you arrived?
Excuse me. Wouldn't you rather
we discuss it on site?
I won't take anything in tonight.
Let's set a date.
I'm always on site.
Monday?
- I don't have my notebook.
- Let's say Monday.
It'll be 1 week
before the end of your trial period.
The way-in
to a permanent contract?
You know about that?
I now also assess contract workers
in their trial period.
Monday?
I've kept the line running
for a year.
Management won't accept
your criticisms.
But... that's not what I meant.
Can we sit down?
There are no free seats.
See you on Monday.
Wait...
Don't take it like that.
You left me no choice.
Let's talk.
I'll rationalize shift rotation
and spread work out
over 24 hours.
Listen, I'll be frank with you.
My wife is a pharmacist.
The pharmacy is open 24/7.
She's on duty 3 nights a week.
I don't see her at weekends.
Our 2 kids don't see her either.
It's not a matter of comfort.
I'm not asking for a sacrifice...
Should I obey for your sake?
Free of charge?
I'm here to help you...
Forgotten my name again?
It's for your own good.
OK?
Wait for the next one.
Any way of knowing?
You can ask your coach
for a debriefing.
He can't tell you about the grading,
but the rest is OK.
What about you?
I can't.
Everything is done at your end.
They'll tell you pretty soon.
Thank you.
Excuse me.
...old molecules
were abandoned, then updated.
That's not the case
with Pradex Muller...
My wife works for them.
I work elsewhere.
Mechanics - different field.
You know her? Christine Barbieri.
She's the one
making the announcements.
She was here just now...
She really impresses me.
I always say
I haven't done much in life
I haven't been lucky
except for meeting her.
It's not because she's my wife.
Well, it is, I suppose.
But all her colleagues adore her.
So?
I don't know how they assess us.
Average, I guess.
Not enough.
Don't be negative.
You have no idea.
No, no idea.
Listen, at the worst
it'll serve as an exercise.
It sucks.
What’re you worried about?
Nothing in particular.
The beginning...
the end...
They don't care if you mess up.
They're there
to note your good points.
To spot your skills.
They take it into account
if you're a smash.
If you messed up,
they won't downgrade you.
Maybe.
Don't worry.
When there's an opening in PR...
it's yours.
We got married after 5 years.
I was a bit scared.
They say things change
after you get married.
I was worried, but nothing changed.
I think a relationship works
if both sides work at it.
My wife is great,
but she has a strong character.
But it's give and take.
If I slam the door
she'll make the first move.
If both sides make an effort...
- Are you married?
- No.
You can commit later on in life.
But if you're not in love,
it won't work.
They're scared of losing their jobs.
I don't see...
Think you're above it all?
A buy-out in 6 months !
How many lay-offs?
You should stop drinking.
A buy-out?
This shitty party
is to impress the buyers.
You'll see I'm right.
Executives who haven't found
their coaches
can come to the platform.
The 2nd test is 60 points
with 3 goals...
Mrs. Gauthier-Stevens?
The last one overran.
Let's find your coach.
I need 5 minutes.
It's a bit late now.
I can swap you with someone else,
but it won't be easy.
What if I make do
with the first results?
It'd be a shame.
I'll just have a break.
Gilles, can I have a word?
It's urgent.
As union rep, what's going on?
A dumb game for bored execs.
It's not a game.
They'll get rid of the deadwood.
Why say that?
I heard it.
Someone from here
and someone else.
He said it wasn't true
but I saw it was.
They're hiding something.
Muller will be bought out.
Don't take me for a fool.
What? Don't you believe me?
Hasn't Damien
given you guarantees?
Guarantees?
Of getting through it.
I won't help you.
He has no guarantees !
- He's head of the legal department.
- So?
He must know.
You two must've known for ages.
- Not at all.
- Sure!
You're talking nonsense!
You're a liar, a dirty liar!
What did he tell you, then?
Excuse me.
...had to become part
of the Muller family.
They had to
adopt its corporate culture.
My wife, Natacha.
Pleased to meet you.
Natacha is in charge of new markets.
You work together?
Damien...
Are you married?
No, but as good as.
Then you'll understand
what I'm talking about.
You see, being a couple
is the best example of otherness,
of sharing skills.
Have you heard
about the planned lay-offs?
What’s that, honey?
The buy-out of Muller.
What buy-out?
You'd have told me?
I'm resuming my exercise.
You would have told me?
I would've told you.
When the time was right.
Damien...
I'll be right back.
There were some hiccups
earlier with Barbieri.
- She might pay for that.
- I doubt it.
I just saw her go off with Muller.
You know her game.
It's nothing.
She's just feeling faint.
Back up a bit.
Support her head.
It'll be alright.
Everything's OK. It'll pass.
Don't move. It'll be alright.
I never hid anything from you.
Nothing important.
You must believe me.
It'll be alright...
Stop it!
Stop it!
- AAlright?
- Yes, it's OK.
Let Mr. Muller through, please.
Let Mr. Muller through.
Thank you.
Step aside.
Wait.
We'll go the other way.
- Calm down.
- Don't touch me!
Let go of me!
Let go of me! Don't touch me!
You lied to me !
Calm down !
Don't touch me !
- Calm down.
- I said, don't touch me !
All together
Pay us our overtime !
Oppose Muller's antisocial policies !
The members of the board
doubled their pay by awarding
themselves stock options,
the amount of which
they won't reveal.
The supervisors still haven't been
paid for their overtime.
We must increase basic pay.
This kind of injustice...
Hi.
...mustn't spread to other branches.
Nice tie.
Thank you.
Is this yours?
You see
that's me, the real me.
Agnès b, a pure cut.
This is my persona.
Just play-acting.
I see.
I act.
It's a prop.
Just like you need
your bucket and brush to work.
OK. To entertain
the people who come here.
To teach them to express themselves.
To be leaders.
By acting?
I teach them to be more effective.
I'd prefer to do King Lear,
but I'm like you - I have to eat.
Everything's just fine.
Thank you very much.
Macbeth. Not Lear. Act V
Scene 5.
Lady Macbeth's death scene.
I don't have time to chat.
Give that to the cloakroom.
Say it belongs
to the coaching team.
The coin...
is for you.
Shit !
Here, take mine.
Thanks.
What courage!
The time for small talk
is over, Mr. Muller.
I wouldn't dare, Bargarat.
Bergerat.
If all the employees
were like you...
We want our due.
Nothing's changed for us since'88.
Without the production supervisors,
and without the executives
my labs wouldn't be what they are.
We could talk on Wednesday,
gentlemen. How does that sound?
The union rep,
Barbieri
the financial director
admin director...
- A negotiation?
- What else?
We did say
partners were welcome.
I could alert the factory inspector.
Our private lives
do not concern you.
No, Mr. Bergerat doesn't need those.
His role as union rep exempts him.
What if I insist?
Seriously, I want to talk to you.
What do you think I'm doing here?
You're spending
the apprenticeship tax.
Hey, you finished yesterday.
- Yesterday?
- Read your contract.
What did I do wrong?
We never take anyone
for more than 3 weeks.
I wasn't told.
Have I been replaced?
That doesn't concern you.
Give me back your keys.
Don't waste your time.
It is time. We can't wait
for the latecomers any longer.
I see most of you
have found your partners.
We can thus begin.
The first objective :
get your coach
to increase production.
The test is marked out of 20.
In 6 to 10 months’ time
I'll sell my shares to Tetra! Lab.
Farewell, Muller Inc.
I'm selling up.
If I lay off 30 employees
before the buy-out,
Tetra Lab will think
it's a lean machine.
They'll pay more.
And they'll keep me on.
You promised to negotiate just now.
So, you were talking crap!
Just 30 people.
I'm playing fair with you.
108? That's monstrous.
- I'm asking you, Bargarat...
- Bergerat.
I want you to resign
from your post as union rep.
I don't know whether to laugh...
at your pseudo frankness,
at your cynicism.
I won't touch production.
The workers and technicians
will stay, I promise you.
You don't believe in my word?
So, trust in your common sense.
Tetra Lab will buy my range
and my factories.
However, for the executives...
there's going to be a bottleneck.
We'll fight, no matter what.
You know that.
If you leave the workers’ council,
Tetra Lab will make you
clinic director.
The answer's no.
Never, do you hear me? Never.
I'll let you think it over.
Think I'll keep quiet?
Go tell people if you like.
You have no proof.
It's easy to find 30 people
who are glad to take severance pay.
Why fight for something
they themselves won't defend?
And you dare to preach...
Before you make a choice
or launch a campaign,
go around your troops.
Make the most of this evening.
You think
I'm acting against their interests.
Maybe I know them
better than you do.
I work in mechanics -
different field.
What do you do?
2nd floor. Accounts.
You know her? Christine Barbieri.
She's the one making
the announcements.
She was here just now.
She really impresses me.
I always say I haven't done
much in life, I haven't been lucky
except for meeting her.
It's not because she's my wife, but
all her colleagues adore her.
Honey, I didn't see you there.
I'll leave you to it.
Please...
Don't make things more complicated.
For now, it's just greasy food
to fill their bellies.
Wait for the second service:
cream of artichoke.
Hello.
I know you...
You work at Armainvilliers.
I know you, too.
I saw you giving out leaflets.
And?
It's good.
We're lucky you're there for us.
Is it tough there?
So-so.
Not really. We're used to it.
I've seen worse.
Don't you feel the pressure?
Even so...
When I go home, I take things easy,
I do up my house,
do gardening.
That's what makes me happy.
I wouldn't mind taking
early retirement.
I won't regret it
when they send me home for good.
If it was up to me...
No, please go on with what
you're doing. I'm just here
to soften the mood... so to speak.
Laughter for one so pretty
Is wrong. O betrayal
to inspire folly
Whilst keeping one's reason
Laughter for one so charming
Feels guilty alongside it
to add to one's dreams
By one's excess beauty
One thing perhaps
Will surprise you
It is that at your window
the wind comes and trembles
that April begins to glisten
that the sea becomes level
And that this means
Warbler, build your nest
Beauty with songs so naive
I cannot admit that one is entitled
to such bright eyes
With such a cold heart
When one is so well made
One should hide
A greatly missed lover
Why bother portraying it?
It's an opportunity
for us all to meet up.
It's nice to have made them
bring their wives.
How did your test go?
Not bad.
What do you think?
Sometimes
the hierarchy is ungrateful.
Meaning?
Seniority, networks...
I've got what it takes.
Well, yours is not an easy job.
I can defend my territory.
In a crisis?
I bite.
And the others?
Who?
What others?
See you later.
Mrs. Barbieri?
The next announcement.
We thank our CEO, Mr. Philippe Muller
for his hearty performance
of "The Disrespectful Demand"
by Emmanuel Chabrier.
I'm the husband of...
Everyone knows who you are.
Well, my conscience is clear.
Is it?
Not many people here are having fun.
They're scared of losing their jobs.
I don't see...
Think you're above it all?
You talk too much.
If you're keeping quiet,
you know something.
A buy-out in 6 months !
How many lay-offs?
You should stop drinking.
A buy-out?
Why a party
when they want to fire people?
Why spend all this money?
Isn't it for training?
No.
This shitty party
is to impress the buyers.
You'll see I'm right.
Do the people here know?
The actors?
It's disgusting.
They fire people who do their jobs.
Then, the work isn't done.
It is now time for the second round.
You have a few minutes
to form your groups.
The easiest way to spot
the assessment team
is to look out for
their red jackets.
Mr. Barbieri is blind drunk.
He's starting
to say certain things...
I don't know how he knows.
Right...
Do we carry on waiting?
5 minutes.
I can make an announcement
or find another exec.
No, it's OK, I have time.
What’s the white wine?
Bergerac, sir.
The heady aroma
of fresh butter and vanilla!
Thank you.
Don't I know you?
Yes, Bruno Couffe
head of manufacturing.
I've seen you before.
- You think so? Which site?
- Melun.
Of course...
Wasn't that Alain Monnier?
No, he left some time ago.
Excuse me.
Gilles Bergerat, sales executive.
Union rep on the workers’ council.
Where were you before that?
It's my first year.
Have you just been hired?
Why all the questions?
This kind of event is
so people meet each other.
Did someone mention me?
You've grasped
how things work here.
Every man for himself.
Good evening.
Excuse me...
It's rather stressful.
Don't worry,
I'm not here to force people.
I'm sorry.
I'm at the end of my trial period.
Outside the unit, everyone thinks...
I have a permanent contract,
so I try to be discreet about it.
You wanted me to come.
Would you have rather stayed
at home?
You're not helping.
I'm doing my best. I'm sorry.
People don't necessarily
find me unpleasant.
That has nothing to do with it.
Mr. Barbieri...
I heard you don't like the way
I'm handling this firm’s future.
Mr. Muller...
That you find the way
I deal with the staff...
- cruel.
- No one said that.
...and other such crap.
I don't know what you were told,
or what my husband said to whom.
It may have been in bad taste,
but he meant no harm.
I'm sure it's not serious.
Christine, you engage in a lot
of pillow talk. And I should know.
But I can hold my tongue.
- What did he mean?
- What did you say?
- Answer me.
- You, answer me!
I was just chatting.
What did you talk about?
The buy-out.
- Where did you hear that?
- You told me.
You go on about it on the phone,
to the mirror, to the cat
at the bedroom door every night!
- But never to me directly!
- You shouldn't have listened.
Now explain it to me.
You didn't talk about him.
We're going home.
I used to work for another lab.
Same job...
15 years I was there.
Then, they restructured
and laid people off.
To me, Muller marks
a fresh start in life.
When does your trial period end?
In 10 days’ time.
When did it start?
Almost a year ago.
That's completely illegal.
There's no job
at the end of it?
They prefer staff like you
that are easier to get rid of.
I have 2 kids to feed!
I had to accept a 308 pay cut.
Don't get discouraged.
It's not over yet.
I'll be right back.
Thank you.
Your wife's coat.
She'll be right back.
Either I give you it all back
or you keep the token.
You want to talk about it?
That's not your style.
the pleasure of love
only lasts a moment
the grief of love
lasts a lifetime
What if I told your wife?
And your children?
Mrs. Muller?
Come on. You're a tease.
Christine...
Do you have a referent?
- I don't know.
- Look, I'm here to help.
There must be someone
who assesses your trial period.
- You'll keep it to yourself?
- Of course.
It changed. It's Gauthier-Stevens.
- Mr.?
- Mrs. Natacha.
- Do you know her?
- It's not normal.
You won't say anything?
She wants to increase production
and if I can't handle it
- the overtime
the controls, the night! shifts -
I have to be a bastard with my team.
That kills me. These people!
Is it a target from on high
or is it her?
Stupid bitch! The stupid bitch!
If she hears I've talked to you,
I can pack my bags.
I'm dead meat.
You can't carry on like this.
No, leave me alone.
Come with me.
She won't dare threaten you.
- Are you OK?
- Yes, it's OK.
There are laws to protect you.
You're not alone.
What are you doing? You're crazy!
- Somebody help!
- Don't call anyone.
Spit it out! Spit it all out!
It's OK. Spit it all out !
Stop that ! Stop it!
Let's find an infirmary.
- No, it's nothing.
- Let me see.
Let me see.
Wait a minute...
You're crazy.
Don't move.
Paper napkins, please.
No, a packet. It's for a...
- Can I have a word?
- I'm already with someone.
It's urgent.
I want some answers from you too,
but not now.
- What?
- You're wanted over there.
What? Have you gone insane?
Come on.
- As union rep, what's going on?
- A dumb game for bored execs.
It's not a game.
They'll get rid of the deadwood.
- Why say that?
- I heard it.
Someone from here
and someone else.
I saw it wasn't crap.
They're hiding something.
- Muller will be bought out.
- Don't take me for a fool.
What? Don't you believe me?
- Hasn't Damien given you guarantees?
- Guarantees?
That the people you crush
don't have.
Don't count on me to help you !
Who do I crush?
You know who I mean.
Damien has no guarantees !
- He's head of legal.
- So?
He must know.
You two must've known for ages.
Not at all !
Sure ! I'd pay dearly
for what you know.
You're talking nonsense!
- You're a liar, a dirty liar !
- What did he tell you, then?
He's your husband, not mine!
Excuse me.
I won't let you down. I understand,
I won't mention your name.
But I'll look after you.
We'll find a solution, I promise.
You shouldn't give in so easily.
In a redistribution of skills
your coworkers
will often submit you to
that kind of gossip. It's natural.
People don't yet know
what they stand to win.
They play on dissension
to come out on top.
What’re you talking about?
You're bound to get a guy
who tries pity.
He'll use his family problems
to do damn all !
I know it's hard, but
you have to remain firm.
And it's good to be incisive,
but go easy on the criticism
of the "rotten" contracts.
I don't know if our assessor
has any comments to make...
Damien...
Natacha, wake up.
Natacha, get up.
Stand back.
She just needs some air.
Natacha, wake up.
Natacha, get up.
- What’s wrong?
- I don't know. She fell.
Stand back.
She just needs some air.
Damien... Do you know what happened?
She already felt bloated
when she arrived.
No, it's OK, thanks.
- Do you want... ?
- We can't all get involved.
- Want me to call an ambulance?
- I'll deal with it.
Careful
you should take her shoes off.
Let me... Damien, you can't...
It's OK, Gilles, we'll manage.
You're hurting her.
Listen... Can't you call him?
How will I recognize him?
Just ask. Philippe Muller.
At the music stand.
I need...
to find... to write...
What’s the... Paper.
It's all I have.
Excuse me.
Mr. Muller?
Mr. Bryden will send you
his summary by Monday.
Already a lot to read...
We've ordered a car for you.
The chauffeur went to pick up
Mademoiselle from the hotel.
I'll accompany you.
Do you have anything
in the cloakroom?
At the hotel.
Let Mr. Muller through, please.
Thank you.
Let Mr. Muller through, please.
Wait.
We'll go the other way.
Who are you with?
- Muller.
- That's not Muller.
I'll go check.
After you.
... the moment, the crucial point...
crucial point...
I'm sorry about earlier on.
I was sure it was an exercise.
You came up to me, I didn't check.
Frankly not possible...
- Frankly...
- It wasn't personal.
I barely knew that Mrs. Gauthier.
I have nothing against her...
Let me do it.
Dear Mr. Muller...
I hereby... inform you...
of my intention
to end my contractual relationship
with your company...
permanently.
Are you sure?
The reasons which lead me to take
this extremely serious decision...
are as follows...
I don't want to have any more to do
with you or your crap.
I hope your employees
may one day follow in my footsteps.
My only regret is
that I can not help them fight you.
I don't have the strength
or the means
but you won't get me all the same.
It'll be here any minute.
You sure he's the CEO?
I heard it's not.
Do you want to ask him?
Me neither.
Sincerely yours...
- Yes?
- I'm looking for the boss.
Mr. Muller just left.
You might catch him out front.
Haven't we already met?
You have the same impression?
A European conference in Warsaw?
July, two years ago.
No, I'm not in pharmaceuticals.
I'm a coach.
Oh, yes, coach. Our little event.
Did you work well?
Do you think
you've made them more effective?
I hope so.
Here...
If you have time to take a look...
There may be a few things
which have escaped you.
Sir...
Human Resources
Management needs
Natacha Gauthier-Stevens:
Rejected
I'm sorry.
I made a mistake.
Anyone there?
Open up.
Open up. I'm Philippe Muller.
Open up! That's an order !
Open up!
I promise you the salt
by kissing my mouth
I promise you the honey
by my hand touching you
I promise you the sky
above your bed
Flowers and lace
So you sleep sweetly
I promise you arms
to carry your worries
I promise you my eyes
I promise you...
my eyes
if you can no longer see
I promise you to be happy
if you can no longer believe
I believe in it like...
I believe in it
like the earth and the sun
I believe in it like a child
like we believe in heaven
I believe in it
like the earth and the sun
I believe in it like a child
like we believe in heaven
I promise you a story
different from all others
If you help me
believe in it a bit...
I can behave badly.
But you? You can't behave like that.
To hell with it.
To hell with me, too?
Do you want to go home?
Let's stay a little longer.
Here...
This might be of use to you.
If you need evidence.
I've seen enough.
It won't change things.
But it'll give you time to think.
How did you get this?
An old friend.
A conference in Warsaw.
Thank you.
Do you have anything
in the cloakroom?
They can't find it.
I'll have to come back.
It only happens to me...
Take it.
I have another one in the cloakroom.
Thank you.
Do you want a lift?
Could you drop me off
near the subway?
Are you married?
She's the duty pharmacist tonight.
Nothing. It's a coincidence.
I'm glad she didn't come.
Subtitles : J. Miller
Subtitling: C.M.C.
The Newcomer
Good day.
No. Good evening.
Pleased to meet you.
Excuse me.
Yes.
Good day.
Pleased to meet you.
Good day.
Excuse me.
Do you know how to do this?
Thank you.
Nice tie.
It's been 4 years
since our last gathering
at the safety course
which is a great memory...
M, hello, Bruno. How are you?
Natacha Gauthier.
Good day... Good evening.
Nice, isn't it?
Oh, we'll be working together
as of next week.
With the release of Pradex
Head Office wants
to redistribute skills.
I stay in charge of new markets,
but I'll also supervise production.
In production, we're rather...
independent.
I'll just be there to help you
cope with demand.
We expect it to be huge.
I know there's a productivity report
on your unit,
but I'd rather start over.
Get off to a new start.
If you agree...
I didn't know.
First, I'll watch how you work,
then we'll define your needs
in terms of resources.
Excuse me.
I didn't eat before I came.
I'll see if they have any aspirin.
Productivity has gone down
due to poor process control.
You should try benchmarking.
Pardon me?
Compare yourselves
to other factories.
Excuse me. Wouldn't you rather
we discuss it on site?
I won't take anything in tonight.
Let's set a date.
I'm always on site.
Monday?
I don't have my notebook...
Let's say Monday. It'll be 1 week
before the end of your trial period.
You know about that?
See you on Monday.
Gilles Bergerat. Sales executive.
I'm the union representative.
Have you just been hired?
This kind of event is
so people meet each other.
Did someone mention me?
Don't worry,
I'm not here to force people.
I'm sorry.
I'm at the end of my trial period.
Everyone thinks
I have a permanent contract,
so I try to be discreet about it.
I used to work for another lab.
Same job... 15 years I was there.
Then, they restructured
and laid people off.
To me, Muller
marks a fresh start in life.
When does your trial period end?
In 10 days’ time.
When did it start?
Almost a year ago.
That's completely illegal.
There's no job at the end of it?
They prefer staff like you
that are easier to get rid of.
I have 2 kids to feed!
I had to accept a 308 pay cut.
Don't get discouraged.
It's not over yet.
Are you the only one?
I don't know.
Do you have a referent?
- I don't know.
- Look, I'm here to help.
There must be someone
who assesses your trial period.
You'll keep it to yourself?
It's Gauthier-Stevens.
- Mr.?
- Mrs. Natacha. Do you know her?
It's not normal.
You won't say anything?
She wants to increase production
and if I can't handle it on my own
- the night shifts,
the controls, the overtime -
I have to be a bastard with my team.
That kills me.
We'll see how many others there are.
Wait.
We can't let people
behave like that.
If she hears I've talked
I can pack my bags.
I'm dead meat.
You can't carry on like this.
No, leave me alone.
It's my last chance.
Come with me.
She won't dare threaten you.
Are you OK?
It's nothing.
There are laws to protect you.
You're not alone.
What are you doing? You're crazy!
- No...
- It's nothing.
Somebody help!
- Don't call anyone.
- Spit it out!
- Leave me alone.
- Spit it all out.
It's OK...
Let's find an infirmary.
No, it's nothing.
Let me see.
We must do something.
You're crazy.
It's nothing...
Don't worry.
It looks worse than it is.
It's fine...
No, it's nothing.
Everything's alright.
Paper napkins, please.
No, a packet. It's for a...
I won't let you down. I understand,
I won't mention your name.
But I'll look after you.
We'll find a solution, I promise.
- Yes?
- Where’s the boss, Mr. Muller?
He just left.
You might catch him out front.
Sir...
Muller!
I'm sorry.
Do you have anything
in the cloakroom?
They can't find it.
I'll have to come back.
That kind of thing
only happens to me.
Married life
3 words to define
the new packaging.
Clear information, a trendy package,
adapted to the various dosages.
Good. But try to be more concise.
OK, so...
Clear, trendy, well-adapted.
Great. Carry on.
What if the guy claims
his coworkers are underqualified?
I promise him training
for every manager.
No, don't give in too fast
or you'll lose points.
Don't give him the advantage.
Look him straight in the eyes.
Hold his gaze.
Do you use last names?
I don't know.
"We should have started
this discussion, Mr."
"We'll start..." Always be direct.
I don't know, Damien...
Don't get stressed out.
Remember, the guy is just an actor
who learns as little as possible.
He knows nothing about medicine.
Maybe he was a coach
in catering before.
He's a failed actor !
You score 120 points,
40 per coach, and they move you
to Public Relations.
We'll see...
Or you can come to my department.
That'd be possible.
You have some lipstick there.
Is that OK?
Thanks.
training seminar
How are you?
How are the children?
Rozen!
- How are you?
- Fine, and you?
Fine. My wife, Natacha.
Pleased to meet you.
I spent 3 years at MAF,
now I'm at Bryden.
See you later.
Thanks.
- Hi, Damien.
- Hi.
Good evening.
Damien and Natacha Gauthier-Stevens.
Gilles Bergerat is with the boss.
Even the trade unionists
are sucking up to him!
Thanks.
He pushes in front of everyone!
How are you doing?
They don't look that close.
Let's go.
Good day.
No. Good evening.
Pleased to meet you.
Excuse me.
Yes.
Excuse me.
Do you know how to do this?
Nice tie.
Thank you.
Is this yours?
The suit?
You see, that's me, the real me.
A pure cut. Agnès b.
This is my persona.
Just play-acting.
I see.
I act. It's a prop.
Just like you need
your bucket and brush to work.
I'd prefer to do King Lear,
but I'm like you - I have to eat.
Hello. Pleased to meet you.
Oh, no, everything's fine.
Just fine.
Our resistance to competition,
to stay in the race,
despite our human, family size,
we owe it to you.
So, tonight is for you.
It is time. We can't wait
for the latecomers any longer.
I see most of you
have found your partners.
We can thus begin.
The first objective :
get your coach
to increase production.
The test is marked out of 20.
The second objective
is to obtain new working hours.
This is also marked out of 20.
I will announce
each change of coach.
Check the name of your new coach
on the list you were given.
Then, the assessors
each start the countdown.
Mrs. Barbieri
we're short of badges.
- Yes?
- We're counting.
15 or so.
The assessors are complaining.
Too bad.
The tests last 12 minutes
per coach.
M, hello, Bruno. How are you?
Natacha Gauthier.
Good day... Good evening.
Nice, isn't it?
Oh, we'll be working together
as of next week.
With the release of Pradex
Head Office wants
to redistribute skills.
I stay in charge of new markets,
but I'll also supervise production.
In production, we're rather...
independent.
I'll be there to help you
cope with demand.
We expect it to be huge.
I know there's a productivity report
on your unit,
but I'd rather start over.
Get off to a new start.
If you agree...
I didn't know.
First, I'll watch how you work,
then we'll define your needs.
Does the clinic director know?
He's normally the one I speak to.
The clinic director
deals with manufacturing techniques
and compliance with norms.
I make sure
production stays on target.
But that's my job!
No, not exactly...
What use am I, then?
Don't take it that way.
You're at the heart of the system...
You're trying to sideline me.
Excuse me.
I didn't eat before I came.
I'll see if they have any aspirin.
What’s going on?
8 minutes left.
He's gone.
It's a cocktail situation.
...you're not pleased to be here,
but don't worry...
Excuse me.
I won't let you go!
So I see.
Productivity has gone down
due to poor process control.
You should try benchmarking.
Pardon me?
Compare yourselves
to other factories.
We do.
Seriously?
And where are the results?
In my head.
You don't have enough perspective.
When did you last
test your production line...
Laurent?
You could remember my name.
When did you last
test your production line, Bruno?
Since you arrived?
Excuse me. Wouldn't you rather
we discuss it on site?
I won't take anything in tonight.
Let's set a date.
I'm always on site.
Monday?
- I don't have my notebook.
- Let's say Monday.
It'll be 1 week
before the end of your trial period.
The way-in
to a permanent contract?
You know about that?
I now also assess contract workers
in their trial period.
Monday?
I've kept the line running
for a year.
Management won't accept
your criticisms.
But... that's not what I meant.
Can we sit down?
There are no free seats.
See you on Monday.
Wait...
Don't take it like that.
You left me no choice.
Let's talk.
I'll rationalize shift rotation
and spread work out
over 24 hours.
Listen, I'll be frank with you.
My wife is a pharmacist.
The pharmacy is open 24/7.
She's on duty 3 nights a week.
I don't see her at weekends.
Our 2 kids don't see her either.
It's not a matter of comfort.
I'm not asking for a sacrifice...
Should I obey for your sake?
Free of charge?
I'm here to help you...
Forgotten my name again?
It's for your own good.
OK?
Wait for the next one.
Any way of knowing?
You can ask your coach
for a debriefing.
He can't tell you about the grading,
but the rest is OK.
What about you?
I can't.
Everything is done at your end.
They'll tell you pretty soon.
Thank you.
Excuse me.
...old molecules
were abandoned, then updated.
That's not the case
with Pradex Muller...
My wife works for them.
I work elsewhere.
Mechanics - different field.
You know her? Christine Barbieri.
She's the one
making the announcements.
She was here just now...
She really impresses me.
I always say
I haven't done much in life
I haven't been lucky
except for meeting her.
It's not because she's my wife.
Well, it is, I suppose.
But all her colleagues adore her.
So?
I don't know how they assess us.
Average, I guess.
Not enough.
Don't be negative.
You have no idea.
No, no idea.
Listen, at the worst
it'll serve as an exercise.
It sucks.
What’re you worried about?
Nothing in particular.
The beginning...
the end...
They don't care if you mess up.
They're there
to note your good points.
To spot your skills.
They take it into account
if you're a smash.
If you messed up,
they won't downgrade you.
Maybe.
Don't worry.
When there's an opening in PR...
it's yours.
We got married after 5 years.
I was a bit scared.
They say things change
after you get married.
I was worried, but nothing changed.
I think a relationship works
if both sides work at it.
My wife is great,
but she has a strong character.
But it's give and take.
If I slam the door
she'll make the first move.
If both sides make an effort...
- Are you married?
- No.
You can commit later on in life.
But if you're not in love,
it won't work.
They're scared of losing their jobs.
I don't see...
Think you're above it all?
A buy-out in 6 months !
How many lay-offs?
You should stop drinking.
A buy-out?
This shitty party
is to impress the buyers.
You'll see I'm right.
Executives who haven't found
their coaches
can come to the platform.
The 2nd test is 60 points
with 3 goals...
Mrs. Gauthier-Stevens?
The last one overran.
Let's find your coach.
I need 5 minutes.
It's a bit late now.
I can swap you with someone else,
but it won't be easy.
What if I make do
with the first results?
It'd be a shame.
I'll just have a break.
Gilles, can I have a word?
It's urgent.
As union rep, what's going on?
A dumb game for bored execs.
It's not a game.
They'll get rid of the deadwood.
Why say that?
I heard it.
Someone from here
and someone else.
He said it wasn't true
but I saw it was.
They're hiding something.
Muller will be bought out.
Don't take me for a fool.
What? Don't you believe me?
Hasn't Damien
given you guarantees?
Guarantees?
Of getting through it.
I won't help you.
He has no guarantees !
- He's head of the legal department.
- So?
He must know.
You two must've known for ages.
- Not at all.
- Sure!
You're talking nonsense!
You're a liar, a dirty liar!
What did he tell you, then?
Excuse me.
...had to become part
of the Muller family.
They had to
adopt its corporate culture.
My wife, Natacha.
Pleased to meet you.
Natacha is in charge of new markets.
You work together?
Damien...
Are you married?
No, but as good as.
Then you'll understand
what I'm talking about.
You see, being a couple
is the best example of otherness,
of sharing skills.
Have you heard
about the planned lay-offs?
What’s that, honey?
The buy-out of Muller.
What buy-out?
You'd have told me?
I'm resuming my exercise.
You would have told me?
I would've told you.
When the time was right.
Damien...
I'll be right back.
There were some hiccups
earlier with Barbieri.
- She might pay for that.
- I doubt it.
I just saw her go off with Muller.
You know her game.
It's nothing.
She's just feeling faint.
Back up a bit.
Support her head.
It'll be alright.
Everything's OK. It'll pass.
Don't move. It'll be alright.
I never hid anything from you.
Nothing important.
You must believe me.
It'll be alright...
Stop it!
Stop it!
- AAlright?
- Yes, it's OK.
Let Mr. Muller through, please.
Let Mr. Muller through.
Thank you.
Step aside.
Wait.
We'll go the other way.
- Calm down.
- Don't touch me!
Let go of me!
Let go of me! Don't touch me!
You lied to me !
Calm down !
Don't touch me !
- Calm down.
- I said, don't touch me !
All together
Pay us our overtime !
Oppose Muller's antisocial policies !
The members of the board
doubled their pay by awarding
themselves stock options,
the amount of which
they won't reveal.
The supervisors still haven't been
paid for their overtime.
We must increase basic pay.
This kind of injustice...
Hi.
...mustn't spread to other branches.
Nice tie.
Thank you.
Is this yours?
You see
that's me, the real me.
Agnès b, a pure cut.
This is my persona.
Just play-acting.
I see.
I act.
It's a prop.
Just like you need
your bucket and brush to work.
OK. To entertain
the people who come here.
To teach them to express themselves.
To be leaders.
By acting?
I teach them to be more effective.
I'd prefer to do King Lear,
but I'm like you - I have to eat.
Everything's just fine.
Thank you very much.
Macbeth. Not Lear. Act V
Scene 5.
Lady Macbeth's death scene.
I don't have time to chat.
Give that to the cloakroom.
Say it belongs
to the coaching team.
The coin...
is for you.
Shit !
Here, take mine.
Thanks.
What courage!
The time for small talk
is over, Mr. Muller.
I wouldn't dare, Bargarat.
Bergerat.
If all the employees
were like you...
We want our due.
Nothing's changed for us since'88.
Without the production supervisors,
and without the executives
my labs wouldn't be what they are.
We could talk on Wednesday,
gentlemen. How does that sound?
The union rep,
Barbieri
the financial director
admin director...
- A negotiation?
- What else?
We did say
partners were welcome.
I could alert the factory inspector.
Our private lives
do not concern you.
No, Mr. Bergerat doesn't need those.
His role as union rep exempts him.
What if I insist?
Seriously, I want to talk to you.
What do you think I'm doing here?
You're spending
the apprenticeship tax.
Hey, you finished yesterday.
- Yesterday?
- Read your contract.
What did I do wrong?
We never take anyone
for more than 3 weeks.
I wasn't told.
Have I been replaced?
That doesn't concern you.
Give me back your keys.
Don't waste your time.
It is time. We can't wait
for the latecomers any longer.
I see most of you
have found your partners.
We can thus begin.
The first objective :
get your coach
to increase production.
The test is marked out of 20.
In 6 to 10 months’ time
I'll sell my shares to Tetra! Lab.
Farewell, Muller Inc.
I'm selling up.
If I lay off 30 employees
before the buy-out,
Tetra Lab will think
it's a lean machine.
They'll pay more.
And they'll keep me on.
You promised to negotiate just now.
So, you were talking crap!
Just 30 people.
I'm playing fair with you.
108? That's monstrous.
- I'm asking you, Bargarat...
- Bergerat.
I want you to resign
from your post as union rep.
I don't know whether to laugh...
at your pseudo frankness,
at your cynicism.
I won't touch production.
The workers and technicians
will stay, I promise you.
You don't believe in my word?
So, trust in your common sense.
Tetra Lab will buy my range
and my factories.
However, for the executives...
there's going to be a bottleneck.
We'll fight, no matter what.
You know that.
If you leave the workers’ council,
Tetra Lab will make you
clinic director.
The answer's no.
Never, do you hear me? Never.
I'll let you think it over.
Think I'll keep quiet?
Go tell people if you like.
You have no proof.
It's easy to find 30 people
who are glad to take severance pay.
Why fight for something
they themselves won't defend?
And you dare to preach...
Before you make a choice
or launch a campaign,
go around your troops.
Make the most of this evening.
You think
I'm acting against their interests.
Maybe I know them
better than you do.
I work in mechanics -
different field.
What do you do?
2nd floor. Accounts.
You know her? Christine Barbieri.
She's the one making
the announcements.
She was here just now.
She really impresses me.
I always say I haven't done
much in life, I haven't been lucky
except for meeting her.
It's not because she's my wife, but
all her colleagues adore her.
Honey, I didn't see you there.
I'll leave you to it.
Please...
Don't make things more complicated.
For now, it's just greasy food
to fill their bellies.
Wait for the second service:
cream of artichoke.
Hello.
I know you...
You work at Armainvilliers.
I know you, too.
I saw you giving out leaflets.
And?
It's good.
We're lucky you're there for us.
Is it tough there?
So-so.
Not really. We're used to it.
I've seen worse.
Don't you feel the pressure?
Even so...
When I go home, I take things easy,
I do up my house,
do gardening.
That's what makes me happy.
I wouldn't mind taking
early retirement.
I won't regret it
when they send me home for good.
If it was up to me...
No, please go on with what
you're doing. I'm just here
to soften the mood... so to speak.
Laughter for one so pretty
Is wrong. O betrayal
to inspire folly
Whilst keeping one's reason
Laughter for one so charming
Feels guilty alongside it
to add to one's dreams
By one's excess beauty
One thing perhaps
Will surprise you
It is that at your window
the wind comes and trembles
that April begins to glisten
that the sea becomes level
And that this means
Warbler, build your nest
Beauty with songs so naive
I cannot admit that one is entitled
to such bright eyes
With such a cold heart
When one is so well made
One should hide
A greatly missed lover
Why bother portraying it?
It's an opportunity
for us all to meet up.
It's nice to have made them
bring their wives.
How did your test go?
Not bad.
What do you think?
Sometimes
the hierarchy is ungrateful.
Meaning?
Seniority, networks...
I've got what it takes.
Well, yours is not an easy job.
I can defend my territory.
In a crisis?
I bite.
And the others?
Who?
What others?
See you later.
Mrs. Barbieri?
The next announcement.
We thank our CEO, Mr. Philippe Muller
for his hearty performance
of "The Disrespectful Demand"
by Emmanuel Chabrier.
I'm the husband of...
Everyone knows who you are.
Well, my conscience is clear.
Is it?
Not many people here are having fun.
They're scared of losing their jobs.
I don't see...
Think you're above it all?
You talk too much.
If you're keeping quiet,
you know something.
A buy-out in 6 months !
How many lay-offs?
You should stop drinking.
A buy-out?
Why a party
when they want to fire people?
Why spend all this money?
Isn't it for training?
No.
This shitty party
is to impress the buyers.
You'll see I'm right.
Do the people here know?
The actors?
It's disgusting.
They fire people who do their jobs.
Then, the work isn't done.
It is now time for the second round.
You have a few minutes
to form your groups.
The easiest way to spot
the assessment team
is to look out for
their red jackets.
Mr. Barbieri is blind drunk.
He's starting
to say certain things...
I don't know how he knows.
Right...
Do we carry on waiting?
5 minutes.
I can make an announcement
or find another exec.
No, it's OK, I have time.
What’s the white wine?
Bergerac, sir.
The heady aroma
of fresh butter and vanilla!
Thank you.
Don't I know you?
Yes, Bruno Couffe
head of manufacturing.
I've seen you before.
- You think so? Which site?
- Melun.
Of course...
Wasn't that Alain Monnier?
No, he left some time ago.
Excuse me.
Gilles Bergerat, sales executive.
Union rep on the workers’ council.
Where were you before that?
It's my first year.
Have you just been hired?
Why all the questions?
This kind of event is
so people meet each other.
Did someone mention me?
You've grasped
how things work here.
Every man for himself.
Good evening.
Excuse me...
It's rather stressful.
Don't worry,
I'm not here to force people.
I'm sorry.
I'm at the end of my trial period.
Outside the unit, everyone thinks...
I have a permanent contract,
so I try to be discreet about it.
You wanted me to come.
Would you have rather stayed
at home?
You're not helping.
I'm doing my best. I'm sorry.
People don't necessarily
find me unpleasant.
That has nothing to do with it.
Mr. Barbieri...
I heard you don't like the way
I'm handling this firm’s future.
Mr. Muller...
That you find the way
I deal with the staff...
- cruel.
- No one said that.
...and other such crap.
I don't know what you were told,
or what my husband said to whom.
It may have been in bad taste,
but he meant no harm.
I'm sure it's not serious.
Christine, you engage in a lot
of pillow talk. And I should know.
But I can hold my tongue.
- What did he mean?
- What did you say?
- Answer me.
- You, answer me!
I was just chatting.
What did you talk about?
The buy-out.
- Where did you hear that?
- You told me.
You go on about it on the phone,
to the mirror, to the cat
at the bedroom door every night!
- But never to me directly!
- You shouldn't have listened.
Now explain it to me.
You didn't talk about him.
We're going home.
I used to work for another lab.
Same job...
15 years I was there.
Then, they restructured
and laid people off.
To me, Muller marks
a fresh start in life.
When does your trial period end?
In 10 days’ time.
When did it start?
Almost a year ago.
That's completely illegal.
There's no job
at the end of it?
They prefer staff like you
that are easier to get rid of.
I have 2 kids to feed!
I had to accept a 308 pay cut.
Don't get discouraged.
It's not over yet.
I'll be right back.
Thank you.
Your wife's coat.
She'll be right back.
Either I give you it all back
or you keep the token.
You want to talk about it?
That's not your style.
the pleasure of love
only lasts a moment
the grief of love
lasts a lifetime
What if I told your wife?
And your children?
Mrs. Muller?
Come on. You're a tease.
Christine...
Do you have a referent?
- I don't know.
- Look, I'm here to help.
There must be someone
who assesses your trial period.
- You'll keep it to yourself?
- Of course.
It changed. It's Gauthier-Stevens.
- Mr.?
- Mrs. Natacha.
- Do you know her?
- It's not normal.
You won't say anything?
She wants to increase production
and if I can't handle it
- the overtime
the controls, the night! shifts -
I have to be a bastard with my team.
That kills me. These people!
Is it a target from on high
or is it her?
Stupid bitch! The stupid bitch!
If she hears I've talked to you,
I can pack my bags.
I'm dead meat.
You can't carry on like this.
No, leave me alone.
Come with me.
She won't dare threaten you.
- Are you OK?
- Yes, it's OK.
There are laws to protect you.
You're not alone.
What are you doing? You're crazy!
- Somebody help!
- Don't call anyone.
Spit it out! Spit it all out!
It's OK. Spit it all out !
Stop that ! Stop it!
Let's find an infirmary.
- No, it's nothing.
- Let me see.
Let me see.
Wait a minute...
You're crazy.
Don't move.
Paper napkins, please.
No, a packet. It's for a...
- Can I have a word?
- I'm already with someone.
It's urgent.
I want some answers from you too,
but not now.
- What?
- You're wanted over there.
What? Have you gone insane?
Come on.
- As union rep, what's going on?
- A dumb game for bored execs.
It's not a game.
They'll get rid of the deadwood.
- Why say that?
- I heard it.
Someone from here
and someone else.
I saw it wasn't crap.
They're hiding something.
- Muller will be bought out.
- Don't take me for a fool.
What? Don't you believe me?
- Hasn't Damien given you guarantees?
- Guarantees?
That the people you crush
don't have.
Don't count on me to help you !
Who do I crush?
You know who I mean.
Damien has no guarantees !
- He's head of legal.
- So?
He must know.
You two must've known for ages.
Not at all !
Sure ! I'd pay dearly
for what you know.
You're talking nonsense!
- You're a liar, a dirty liar !
- What did he tell you, then?
He's your husband, not mine!
Excuse me.
I won't let you down. I understand,
I won't mention your name.
But I'll look after you.
We'll find a solution, I promise.
You shouldn't give in so easily.
In a redistribution of skills
your coworkers
will often submit you to
that kind of gossip. It's natural.
People don't yet know
what they stand to win.
They play on dissension
to come out on top.
What’re you talking about?
You're bound to get a guy
who tries pity.
He'll use his family problems
to do damn all !
I know it's hard, but
you have to remain firm.
And it's good to be incisive,
but go easy on the criticism
of the "rotten" contracts.
I don't know if our assessor
has any comments to make...
Damien...
Natacha, wake up.
Natacha, get up.
Stand back.
She just needs some air.
Natacha, wake up.
Natacha, get up.
- What’s wrong?
- I don't know. She fell.
Stand back.
She just needs some air.
Damien... Do you know what happened?
She already felt bloated
when she arrived.
No, it's OK, thanks.
- Do you want... ?
- We can't all get involved.
- Want me to call an ambulance?
- I'll deal with it.
Careful
you should take her shoes off.
Let me... Damien, you can't...
It's OK, Gilles, we'll manage.
You're hurting her.
Listen... Can't you call him?
How will I recognize him?
Just ask. Philippe Muller.
At the music stand.
I need...
to find... to write...
What’s the... Paper.
It's all I have.
Excuse me.
Mr. Muller?
Mr. Bryden will send you
his summary by Monday.
Already a lot to read...
We've ordered a car for you.
The chauffeur went to pick up
Mademoiselle from the hotel.
I'll accompany you.
Do you have anything
in the cloakroom?
At the hotel.
Let Mr. Muller through, please.
Thank you.
Let Mr. Muller through, please.
Wait.
We'll go the other way.
Who are you with?
- Muller.
- That's not Muller.
I'll go check.
After you.
... the moment, the crucial point...
crucial point...
I'm sorry about earlier on.
I was sure it was an exercise.
You came up to me, I didn't check.
Frankly not possible...
- Frankly...
- It wasn't personal.
I barely knew that Mrs. Gauthier.
I have nothing against her...
Let me do it.
Dear Mr. Muller...
I hereby... inform you...
of my intention
to end my contractual relationship
with your company...
permanently.
Are you sure?
The reasons which lead me to take
this extremely serious decision...
are as follows...
I don't want to have any more to do
with you or your crap.
I hope your employees
may one day follow in my footsteps.
My only regret is
that I can not help them fight you.
I don't have the strength
or the means
but you won't get me all the same.
It'll be here any minute.
You sure he's the CEO?
I heard it's not.
Do you want to ask him?
Me neither.
Sincerely yours...
- Yes?
- I'm looking for the boss.
Mr. Muller just left.
You might catch him out front.
Haven't we already met?
You have the same impression?
A European conference in Warsaw?
July, two years ago.
No, I'm not in pharmaceuticals.
I'm a coach.
Oh, yes, coach. Our little event.
Did you work well?
Do you think
you've made them more effective?
I hope so.
Here...
If you have time to take a look...
There may be a few things
which have escaped you.
Sir...
Human Resources
Management needs
Natacha Gauthier-Stevens:
Rejected
I'm sorry.
I made a mistake.
Anyone there?
Open up.
Open up. I'm Philippe Muller.
Open up! That's an order !
Open up!
I promise you the salt
by kissing my mouth
I promise you the honey
by my hand touching you
I promise you the sky
above your bed
Flowers and lace
So you sleep sweetly
I promise you arms
to carry your worries
I promise you my eyes
I promise you...
my eyes
if you can no longer see
I promise you to be happy
if you can no longer believe
I believe in it like...
I believe in it
like the earth and the sun
I believe in it like a child
like we believe in heaven
I believe in it
like the earth and the sun
I believe in it like a child
like we believe in heaven
I promise you a story
different from all others
If you help me
believe in it a bit...
I can behave badly.
But you? You can't behave like that.
To hell with it.
To hell with me, too?
Do you want to go home?
Let's stay a little longer.
Here...
This might be of use to you.
If you need evidence.
I've seen enough.
It won't change things.
But it'll give you time to think.
How did you get this?
An old friend.
A conference in Warsaw.
Thank you.
Do you have anything
in the cloakroom?
They can't find it.
I'll have to come back.
It only happens to me...
Take it.
I have another one in the cloakroom.
Thank you.
Do you want a lift?
Could you drop me off
near the subway?
Are you married?
She's the duty pharmacist tonight.
Nothing. It's a coincidence.
I'm glad she didn't come.
Subtitles : J. Miller
Subtitling: C.M.C.