Spin (2012–2016): Season 1, Episode 2 - La candidate - full transcript
FUNERAL FOR THE PRESIDENT
PRIVATE CEREMONY
You OK?
I've had this since the attack.
It doesn't last long.
Thank you.
Good morning.
Sir, what else do you know
about the president's murder?
Nothing about the murder itself.
Investigators are following
leads in Spain and in Italy.
Of course, we're at Level Red.
This week, I'll announce
we've taken special steps.
All right?
I mean political initiatives,
not technical ones.
Now let's listen to
Marjorie's nonsense.
It's my right, even my duty.
As leader of the Opposition,
to demand answers
from the government.
The murder happened a week ago.
But we don't know anything.
No official theory.
I'm asking the PM
to make a statement.
Turn it off.
The official theory
is very clear:
An individual manipulated
by an Islamist network.
Possibly al-Qaeda.
Two important leads.
One involving Italy,
the other, Spain.
I'd like you to meet
Ludovic Desmeuze.
Hello.
He'll manage all communication
matters for our campaign.
You're officially running?
Not yet.
I'll announce it Tuesday.
- We didn't discuss it.
- I did, with Ludovic.
You didn't get Kapita for that?
I've worked with Kapita.
- We're a younger team.
- With less experience!
How would you know?
MEN IN THE SHADOWS
THE CANDIDATE
Did the media follow you?
They're after you,
Mr. Marjorie.
When you declare you're running,
they'll follow you nonstop.
Why do you think
I'll be running?
Because you asked to see rne.
Follow me.
Your bachelor pad?
I'm strictly into politics.
Nothing more anonymous
than a hotel room!
I hold sensitive meetings here.
You're leader of the Opposition
and Pierre's a right-winger.
A socialist right-winger.
It's not incompatible
with the program
I'll put forward
as a presidential candidate.
- He was my friend.
- And you'll be mine.
Choosing me will cause conflict
in your team.
According to what
people are telling me,
we have the same goal:
defeat Deleuvre.
And you're in the best position
to help me do that.
It works both ways.
It's a presidential election.
We can't afford
to make a mistake.
The country's paralyzed,
and Deleuvre
wants to create a panic.
You have the best chance
to beat Deleuvre,
but if you win, he'll become
leader of the Opposition.
- He'll strike again.
- Who cares?
I do.
I'll get him once and for all.
Would you have any qualms about
defending a left-wing candidate?
No, I could even vote for you.
Maybe I will.
But I'm here
as a communications adviser.
Think about it.
I'll announce Wednesday that
I'm running, so call me before.
We're leaving Matignon now.
Is there enough time?
We'll be there in 15 minutes
or less.
Why aren't we having
this interview at Matignon?
I want to introduce you
to my team.
The PM!
The president's death caused
a constitutional void.
- Who runs the country?
- I do.
By authority
of the Senate President.
Of course.
Why has no one claimed
responsibility for the attack
that killed our president?
Here we're dealing with
a very muddled terrorist group.
Our police forces,
intelligence units
and security people
are all working on this.
When I say "all,"
I don't mean
just our own people,
but those of our allies too.
But I can't elaborate,
to protect certain agents.
In France, you've taken
special measures.
The whole country is in a state
of increased red alert
and boarder checks
have been increased.
We're in a constitutional state.
Those who may question
its legitimacy
need to know
I'll stand up to them.
Will you be running
in the presidential election?
I'm thinking about it.
I haven't decided yet.
Officially, but off camera...
We'll announce it Tuesday.
Can "France d'aujourd'hui"
have exclusive rights?
No, but we could discuss
your next report immediately.
Please ask Constantin
to join us.
I'd like you to meet a friend,
Constantin Raskovlov.
Mr. Prime Minister...
Constantin just purchased
"France d'aujourd'hui."
It's just the beginning.
I'd like to personally
write an editorial
on this encounter for our paper,
with a picture.
Is this a trap?
We're launching your campaign.
Yes.
He's our only witness.
In no police stations
or holding centers.
He was arrested the next day.
That's all we know.
No other leads.
I trust my source entirely.
No, confidential.
OK, very well.
Call me when...
Here!
Thank you.
He's not in yet and he has
appointments all afternoon.
- What about Valentine?
- Simon, you're here?
No, but I'll still hug you.
I'm invisible here.
Want some coffee?
You hate coffee. Come on!
- Hello, Simon!
- Hello!
We're all saddened
by Pierre's death.
Hot water, as usual?
Yes, please.
Your confirmed-bachelor ways
make me laugh.
In cafes and vending machines,
the tea's rotten.
You left New York?
Ludo said you were offered
a UN commission job.
Yes. I had an appointment
with the Secretary-General,
but I canceled.
- You wanted to see Ludovic?
- Yes.
He never calls me back.
He's never available when I am.
I'll tell him
you want to see him.
I'd like us to work together
again for the election.
Meaning?
Back someone
running against Deleuvre.
Deleuvre?
A vulture who'll eat up anyone
to boost his power.
You'll back Marjorie?
I don't know yet.
Him or someone else.
I want the team
that made Pierre win.
How long has it been
since you spoke with Ludovic?
Why?
He'll never agree to work
under your leadership.
You sold him the company.
He's done with politics.
Would you agree to come
and work with me again?
- Why do you ask?
- You're the best copywriter.
I'm not the only one.
You're the one I want.
It's not the first time
you tell me that.
I know.
- That's all in the past now.
- Yes.
Thank you.
- You're back!
- It's not what you think.
I brought what you asked for:
All national news since you left
for New York, including dailies.
May I ask you a question?
You separated and,
since Dad came back,
you're together almost as often
as before, why is that?
You have 2 homes...
When you were away, things were
easy: Worked here, slept there.
- Not always.
- What will I do now?
Maybe you should rent me
a studio.
Bye!
We'll ask the right questions
later. Are you OK?
Bergamot tea, slightly flavored.
Marjorie wants me
to work for him.
Good!
I'm not sure
he's the best candidate.
Ijust heard in Editorial:
if he wins the 2nd round,
all ecologists will rally
behind him, even Center ones.
In any case,
who else would be suitable?
I'm looking...
Left or Right?
Both.
I stayed to take Deleuvre down.
I need the right weapons.
- That state falsehood...
- We can't prove anything.
I'll go over to St. Etienne,
Simon.
Why?
This whole thing's disgusting.
I'll bring it out in the open.
- You're not supposed to know.
- But you told me.
A left-wing lady...
Better than a gentleman
in the Center!
Start reading!
You spent the night here?
I saw a guy
walk toward your room.
Don't speculate.
What were you doing?
Could a woman like her
beat Deleuvre?
A woman at the Elysée?
I'm not sure...
Secretary of State
for Social Affairs,
an arbitrator
for the government...
She's still a girl.
How are things going
in that small bed?
I was just going to ask...
Care to buy me a big bed?
I'll do it tomorrow.
You're such a cool dad!
Since I've been back,
it's the 1st time I hear that.
Good night!
ISEP POLLING FIRM
Possible candidates.
Rate them before tomorrow.
- I need 24 hours.
- You worked faster before.
- You won't defend Deleuvre?
- Why would I?
I thought the team was back
and ready to fight...
- What team?
- Ludovic and you.
What has Ludovic got to do
with this?
Nothing. I made a mistake.
Nothing. I'm sorry.
I pay the tab,
but I don't know the rates.
- We'll see about that later.
- H0w much do you want?
Special treatment:
EUR 40,000.
Send it to my place.
I'll pay in 90 days.
Mr. Kapita!
Mr. Kapita!
You can't go in!
We don't have
the investigation results.
- Nicolas will have them soon.
- How soon?
Please leave us alone!
- Over the weekend.
- Fine.
I'm listening.
What can I say?
What you think
about yourself now.
- You barged in.
- That's not an answer.
I have the right to grow, Simon.
Not this way.
I taught you the ropes
and left you
the company I built.
Now I wait at reception
because you're in a meeting?
Playing games with me?
You won't answer the phone!
I wanted to talk to you
at the right moment.
I'm here now. Talk to me.
- I'll be helping Deleuvre.
- Why?
To learn more, so I can work
by myself, without your help.
I couldn't turn down
this opportunity at my age.
As if you killed the father.
You'd have to take his place.
You chose yours, but
we're on opposite sides.
Didn't you teach me
politics is a wrestling match?
For some people.
And for you, obviously.
There are nobler ways
of fighting.
I'm 15 years younger than you.
I don't see things the same way.
I don't see communication
the way you taught me.
It's also publicity, economics,
politics, social work, news...
It's a whole world.
- Really?
- Yes, it's a whole world.
Like a galmq: You connect
the dots between the planets.
We're like free electrons.
No electron without a nucleus!
Communication's nothing
if you mix everything together!
It's a void! A pit! Nothing!
- You can dress up anything.
- Anything?
Even a State lie?
He's covering up a lie
about Pierre's death.
The country is panicking.
The world is watching.
You'll support the team
that's behind all that?
That's capitalizing
on Pierre's death?
"Dress up anything"!
Impressive!
Was your image photoshopped?
I happened to be there.
Men in the shadows
stay in the background.
- I didn't know you'd come.
- Neither did I.
- Something wrong?
- I met with Ludovic.
He told you?
No, I found out by myself.
But my offer still stands.
You'd be welcome on my team.
- I saw Simon.
- Me too.
You told him about us?
We've been sleeping together,
but we're not together.
If I sleep with someone,
we're together.
- Change the subject!
- No.
Why do you care about Simon?
You ditched him!
My concem's about you.
- No, it's you and me.
- Exactly. What I call "us."
We used to spend
weekends together.
I felt we were together.
Excuse me, it's Matignon.
Mr. Deleuvre isn't available,
but his adviser is.
No, I want Deleuvre.
I won't speak with anyone else.
- He's not available.
- Have him call me! Valentine!
I didn't see it coming,
and I don't understand
how I became so fond
of that guy.
Narcissism, Dad.
What does narcissism
have to do with it?
You wanted him to be
a second Simon,
gave him what
I wasn't suitable for.
- Meaning?
- I'm not a guy, Dad.
- So?
- You know what you are...
aristocratic
with old-world values.
Power is for men only:
Legacies are for sons only.
You were hoping
Ludovic would marry me
and be like a son, which is
better than a traitor.
Are you Internet savvy?
That's how I earn
some pocket money!
I work for a Web firm.
My friends are geeks!
Would Miss Geek work for us?
Great! Would you hire me?
- No, I wouldn't.
- Why not?
You're in school. Work for
the by-elections and we'll see.
See what?
We'll see. Come here!
Dads always say that:
"We'll see."
They like her
in the blogosphere.
They see her as an honest,
sincere politician.
What about her private life
and her children?
Maybe her husband?
As I said, she's divorced.
That's all.
- Lovers? Love affairs?
- No, nothing.
Is she popular?
How does she respond to attacks?
Is anyone attacking her? Why?
I want to know
everything about her.
Find scandals, pretend
you're a cop or a janitor.
Female cop, female janitor.
How about this? In September,
she told a weekly paper
that she sees no difference
between the Left and the Right.
That's interesting:
she's a rightist.
She's Center.
Didn't you read Alain?
Those who think Left and Right
are the same are rightists.
Where do you stand?
Where do I stand?
If anyone asks, say,
"Like Cocteau, extreme center."
- Who told you about this?
- Kapita.
Kapita...
Who asked you
to come and see me?
No one.
Do you realize
what you're saying?
There's no State lie!
The president was killed
by a lunatic.
But that would imply that it was...
someone acting alone.
- It wasn't?
There's greater impact
if we mention al-Qaeda.
- That's not what I asked.
- That's my answer!
The results
of the quantitative assessment.
It's clear.
Deleuvre and Marjorie
are very far ahead.
The election will play out
between them in 4 weeks.
A clear-cut tendency.
Wrong! No one's prepared
for this election.
Deleuvre's 16 points
ahead of Anne Visage.
Marjorie, 15.
If we only take the votes
of Pierre's supporters
in the last election,
Visage and Marjorie are almost
on an equal footing
and the numbers
confirm the statements.
- She's the heiress.
- Backed by a party?
- Pierre's followers.
- That's not a party.
Less than 10 points
means failure.
First, if she runs,
Deleuvre has no votes
in reserve.
Second, if she starts at 14,
I'll make her reach 22.
Why are you approaching me?
You represent the continuity
the prime minister
can't represent himself.
You'll be the side
everyone wants to be on.
Your career path will prove it.
You know my career path?
You were State Secretary,
a state arbitrator for
the ruling majority party,
mayor of your native town,
a non-political appointment.
Your parents were laypersons
and socialist radicals.
They were teachers.
You were raised to revere
the French Republic.
Rather old-fashioned
by today's standards.
I followed
a very classical pattern.
Facebook and Twitter will show
you're much more than that.
But I know much more about
Beethoven than about Lady Gaga.
That could be
our campaign jingle.
I'm a woman,
and that's a handicap.
A tribute to equality...
You have an answer
to everything.
You could choose
someone other than rne.
Among Pierre's followers,
you're the only one
who can beat Deleuvre.
I can't, Simon.
Do you know how it feels to see
a man you admire be blown up?
There's noise, blood,
people's cries...
I still wake up
during the night.
During the day.
Sometimes I feel
the bomb's exploding again,
and I lose my balance
for a couple of seconds.
I'm at the scene
and it's horrible.
Sirens, people checks,
the police...
The terrorists didn't just
get rid of Pierre...
Anne, there's something
you should know about.
Pierre wasn't killed
by an al-Qaeda operative,
but by a desperate man
facing unemployment
who also killed himself.
Deleuvre knows.
He's covering up a State lie.
How do you know?
I don't have any proof,
but I'm positive.
- Why didn't you tell me before?
- I haven't told anyone.
You can't give this kind of news
unless it's ironclad
or you're toast!
There was a witness,
but he's disappeared.
I'm sure this information
will influence your decision.
I need your answer before 8
tomorrow night.
It'll be a very short campaign.
Ludo, can I see you now?
I wrote the 3 copy samples
for The House of China.
- I don't have time.
- You never do.
- I'm going to Matignon.
-2 minutes!
This election's a godsend
for us, every minute counts.
We'll make a grand entrance
and expand!
- In 2 years, we'll be No. 1!
- I need to see you for this job.
You can see me.
I can't!
Valentine! Excuse rne.
Do you know where...
Leave me alone!
Shit!
I need peace and quiet.
That's so cool, Dad!
You're an angel!
I'll get it!
Anne?
I haven't slept all night.
Come in.
I'll make some tea.
Simon, you gave me
till 8 PM today.
That's right.
I'll move faster than that.
It's noon,
but let's pretend it's 8 PM.
I'm in, Simon.
You were very convincing.
That state falsehood
is an attack on democracy.
We're off to a good start.
Hello, Anne!
- Hello!
- Good afternoon!
Senator Robert Palissy
is my political godfather.
I phoned him this morning,
before I went to see you.
He's agreed to be
my campaign manager.
- I don't think we've met.
- No.
The president
set certain boundaries.
I'm delighted you'll be
the one who looks after Anne.
She's always been my princess.
I became senator and gave her
my city hall and my riding.
Bur right now we need
good strategy and money.
Work on the battle plan.
I'll get the ammunition.
- We must hurry.
- What's the legal limit?
14 M for the 1st round,
18 for the 2nd. We need more.
I found campaign funds
for 60 senators.
I can get election money.
Can we discuss it today?
I'm due at the Assembly
in an hour
for an audition by
the Social Affairs Commission.
I'll see you out, Simon.
After you.
Get in!
I used to hate driving.
He's my last driver.
He lost 4 points!
I keep him on staff,
but he lets me drive.
When I left the party,
I founded another one
with senators.
It's our way of recovering
the money
the government hands out
to parties every year:
more than EUR 40,000
per person per year
over a 15-year period
for 11 of us: Do the math.
- About 6.5 M.
- Right!
It's our friend Anne's share
for starters.
It's not enough.
No! She needs a real party:
a structure,
some militants and money.
I'll approach the Democrats.
I was on the founding team.
We'd get a nice return
on our investment.
Let's go! Hold on!
First, we'll submit the statutes
for a funding association.
Tomorrow, I'll send the bank
a check for EUR 7 M.
We'll find campaign facilities
in a working-class district.
We could hang pictures there.
We'll need cash.
We'll start with this.
Ten years ago,
secrets funds were legal.
I got Swiss francs for them
before we switched to euros.
We'll convert them back
into euros.
You'll organize
the launching process.
Shall we go?
I can't do it, Simon.
Let's take a walk.
I told you you'd have to take
very uneasy means of action.
This is more than uneasy:
it's sordid.
There'll be more.
Since the murder attempt,
I get these dizzy spells.
- We'll capitalize on it.
- That's obnoxious.
Anne... Your life is changing.
You'll be working
15 hours a day.
Up at dawn,
back home late at night.
We'll crisscross France.
Every minute will be planned.
You'll have a whole team:
bodyguards, press secretaries,
guys writing your speeches,
makeup artists, hair stylists.
Plenty of stress and speed.
Why am I doing this?
Good question.
Why are you doing this?
For Pierre and to beat Deleuvre.
Where are they?
He's inside there.
Anne, I don't like this
any more than you do.
Come.
Take a long-distance shot.
- The picture won't be as clear.
- I know. I need that.
Stand over there.
On every front page.
What do you think?
She'll run for sure.
- Is your friend behind this?
- Former friend.
Can we influence her?
No way, she's as cold
as a block of ice.
Ice can melt.
Ask Intelligence what they have
on her and on Kapita:
Facts and income tax.
I have to go.
I have an appointment.
I'm counting on you
in this matter.
I don't understand why Kapita
stands behind that bitch.
I wish he were back
in New York.
Not me. I know him inside out.
I can read him like a book.
What would Kapita say
if he was here with me?
- Never leave here empty-handed.
- My briefcase.
No one knows what's in it.
Carry files.
Pretend you're
incredibly overworked.
Put on your glasses
and go through your files.
- I wear contact lenses.
- Who knows?
Show me all the negative stuff
about her.
Convert it into something
positive for the media.
Not tight-lipped, discreet.
Not a go-getter, ambitious.
The media will say
she's a bit severe.
- Reserved.
- Hung up.
- Thoughtful.
- Upper-class.
- But not condescending.
- Want my job?
Lunch tomorrow with
0livienne's right-hand man.
He promised to tell us the tone
of his team's papers.
I want you to become
his best friend.
So... In or out of bed?
Out, if it's an editorial.
In, if it's a 3-column,
front-page article.
Take it easy, it's fragile.
- That's my office?
- It's almost ready.
Try to look cool, Anne.
And we should kiss.
Let's be more informal.
Don't say, "That's my office?"
with disgust.
You'd go from 14 points to 12.
I've recruited Lili, who was
Pierre's press secretary.
Let's be cool, then!
- Hello, Lili!
- Hello.
It doesn't look that great.
Bring your own stuff:
pictures of your children,
the president's picture,
if possible, a picture
of you with the president,
some books, including
hard-to-find classics,
recent publications,
women's mags, flowers.
Avoid red roses
and white lilies.
The computer should be on
at all times.
You must also prepare
your official candidacy.
When?
Right away, for the 1 PM
and 8 PM news.
I'll find someone to write
a draft for your speech.
- Did you ask Valentine?
- She hasn't replied.
She's tops. Everyone remembers
Pierre's inaugural speech.
I'll call her back.
Come in.
You have something
to write with?
Have a seat, Valentine.
We should dwell on insecurity,
but give it a little leeway,
enough to get the Right-Center
to feel at home with it.
For Deleuvre's speech,
the concept should be strength.
Use words like "troops,"
"army," "safety."
Also, use the expression
"the president's killer“ twice.
You walk like Simon.
- He walks like this?
- A bit slower.
Because he's older.
I don't go for that insecurity
with a little leeway, Ludovic.
I'm leaving.
I can't stay here.
What are you talking about?
I run into you,
but I can't see you.
Everyone here runs into me
without seeing me!
I'm different.
Or maybe I blend in
with everyone else!
I don't have time
for anything else,
that's all I can give you.
I'm leaving, Ludovic.
Please let me go now.
You found another job?
I'll be working with
Simon Kapita.
- Simon Kapita?
- Yes.
Realize what you're doing?
Simon never found out
we were dating.
I mean he's my enemy
and you'll be serving him!
Unacceptable.
Maybe it's my way
of staying with you.
Don't treat me like a fool,
Valentine!
He asked me to be on his team.
I accepted.
- You'll promote Anne Visage?
- Yes.
Darling, you'll run back to me
in 2 weeks.
Anne Visage...
I'll give you a week
to think it over.
I don't need a week.
I've been thinking for months.
I can't go on
just running into you at work.
Valentine, you can't leave me
to go and work for Simon.
Choose another place,
not that one!
I feel betrayed.
Which one of us
betrayed the other first?
You can't do this.
Yes, I can.
It's my only way out.
You'll be back in 2 weeks!
Lili, get another desk.
Comfortable, not transparent
so her legs won't show.
We mustn't see if she's wearing
a skirt or pants.
Anne, wear a skirt, not pants.
Excuse me.
Next Saturday,
we're meeting with the president
of the Coalition Party,
Jean Petit.
- How do you feel?
- Great!
Go!
Dear fellow countrymen,
In respectful memory
of our deceased president,
I have decided to run
in the presidential election.
I'm not a member
of the establishment
or the political set.
However, as State Secretary
for Social Affairs...
You must learn to work
with the prompter.
It's not a tennis ball.
Glance to the right and
to the left, just to check.
Let's do it again.
I don't know who wrote
this cOPY. but it's rotten.
"I'm not a member
"of the establishment
or the political set."
She's right!
You should never start a speech
by saying something heavy
like "in respectful memory..."
Use verbs in the active form.
Direct language.
No establishment
or political set.
You must have a positive
and unifying attitude.
Have you met Valentine?
She wrote Pierre's speeches.
She'll write yours.
- Hello!
- Hello!
Now all you have to do
is learn to use the prompter.
0K. go!
Dear fellow countrymen,
The difficult times
our country has been through,
the grief we all share
and the moral insecurity
we all find ourselves in
have prompted me to make
an important decision
and a serious one.
In memory
of our deceased president,
I have decided
to run in the upcoming election.
The nerve!
I want my candidacy...
Is that moron Palissy?
Yes. She succeeded him
as mayor of her town
when he became senator,
then left that position
to become State Secretary,
the 1st time.
...the events
of these past few days
took that away from us.
We'll have to fight
the Left and the Right.
Mainly the Center.
Anne Visage
isn't a true right-winger.
- The Center's weak spot.
- She's fair game.
Fair game indeed: I have a note
from Intelligence
about Anne Visage.
Read it.
- You trust this information?
- Yes.
Kapita'll never be the same.
May I play this round?
- Can't we all play?
- No.
Things need to proceed swiftly
at this point.
We must fight through the media,
and that's my job.
He's right.
Thank you, everyone.
Kapita's wife is in St. Etienne
looking for the witness
to the killing.
- Where is he?
- Far away.
- But you didn't...
- No.
Any danger?
No, but a potential threat.
Then do something about it.
What's up?
Simon, I'm waiting downstairs.
Coming.
What's the problem?
This.
Newsstands open at 6 AM.
ANNE VISAGE
WAS THE PRESIDENT'S MISTRESS
Translatior]: M. Saint-Amaud
Epilogue
PRIVATE CEREMONY
You OK?
I've had this since the attack.
It doesn't last long.
Thank you.
Good morning.
Sir, what else do you know
about the president's murder?
Nothing about the murder itself.
Investigators are following
leads in Spain and in Italy.
Of course, we're at Level Red.
This week, I'll announce
we've taken special steps.
All right?
I mean political initiatives,
not technical ones.
Now let's listen to
Marjorie's nonsense.
It's my right, even my duty.
As leader of the Opposition,
to demand answers
from the government.
The murder happened a week ago.
But we don't know anything.
No official theory.
I'm asking the PM
to make a statement.
Turn it off.
The official theory
is very clear:
An individual manipulated
by an Islamist network.
Possibly al-Qaeda.
Two important leads.
One involving Italy,
the other, Spain.
I'd like you to meet
Ludovic Desmeuze.
Hello.
He'll manage all communication
matters for our campaign.
You're officially running?
Not yet.
I'll announce it Tuesday.
- We didn't discuss it.
- I did, with Ludovic.
You didn't get Kapita for that?
I've worked with Kapita.
- We're a younger team.
- With less experience!
How would you know?
MEN IN THE SHADOWS
THE CANDIDATE
Did the media follow you?
They're after you,
Mr. Marjorie.
When you declare you're running,
they'll follow you nonstop.
Why do you think
I'll be running?
Because you asked to see rne.
Follow me.
Your bachelor pad?
I'm strictly into politics.
Nothing more anonymous
than a hotel room!
I hold sensitive meetings here.
You're leader of the Opposition
and Pierre's a right-winger.
A socialist right-winger.
It's not incompatible
with the program
I'll put forward
as a presidential candidate.
- He was my friend.
- And you'll be mine.
Choosing me will cause conflict
in your team.
According to what
people are telling me,
we have the same goal:
defeat Deleuvre.
And you're in the best position
to help me do that.
It works both ways.
It's a presidential election.
We can't afford
to make a mistake.
The country's paralyzed,
and Deleuvre
wants to create a panic.
You have the best chance
to beat Deleuvre,
but if you win, he'll become
leader of the Opposition.
- He'll strike again.
- Who cares?
I do.
I'll get him once and for all.
Would you have any qualms about
defending a left-wing candidate?
No, I could even vote for you.
Maybe I will.
But I'm here
as a communications adviser.
Think about it.
I'll announce Wednesday that
I'm running, so call me before.
We're leaving Matignon now.
Is there enough time?
We'll be there in 15 minutes
or less.
Why aren't we having
this interview at Matignon?
I want to introduce you
to my team.
The PM!
The president's death caused
a constitutional void.
- Who runs the country?
- I do.
By authority
of the Senate President.
Of course.
Why has no one claimed
responsibility for the attack
that killed our president?
Here we're dealing with
a very muddled terrorist group.
Our police forces,
intelligence units
and security people
are all working on this.
When I say "all,"
I don't mean
just our own people,
but those of our allies too.
But I can't elaborate,
to protect certain agents.
In France, you've taken
special measures.
The whole country is in a state
of increased red alert
and boarder checks
have been increased.
We're in a constitutional state.
Those who may question
its legitimacy
need to know
I'll stand up to them.
Will you be running
in the presidential election?
I'm thinking about it.
I haven't decided yet.
Officially, but off camera...
We'll announce it Tuesday.
Can "France d'aujourd'hui"
have exclusive rights?
No, but we could discuss
your next report immediately.
Please ask Constantin
to join us.
I'd like you to meet a friend,
Constantin Raskovlov.
Mr. Prime Minister...
Constantin just purchased
"France d'aujourd'hui."
It's just the beginning.
I'd like to personally
write an editorial
on this encounter for our paper,
with a picture.
Is this a trap?
We're launching your campaign.
Yes.
He's our only witness.
In no police stations
or holding centers.
He was arrested the next day.
That's all we know.
No other leads.
I trust my source entirely.
No, confidential.
OK, very well.
Call me when...
Here!
Thank you.
He's not in yet and he has
appointments all afternoon.
- What about Valentine?
- Simon, you're here?
No, but I'll still hug you.
I'm invisible here.
Want some coffee?
You hate coffee. Come on!
- Hello, Simon!
- Hello!
We're all saddened
by Pierre's death.
Hot water, as usual?
Yes, please.
Your confirmed-bachelor ways
make me laugh.
In cafes and vending machines,
the tea's rotten.
You left New York?
Ludo said you were offered
a UN commission job.
Yes. I had an appointment
with the Secretary-General,
but I canceled.
- You wanted to see Ludovic?
- Yes.
He never calls me back.
He's never available when I am.
I'll tell him
you want to see him.
I'd like us to work together
again for the election.
Meaning?
Back someone
running against Deleuvre.
Deleuvre?
A vulture who'll eat up anyone
to boost his power.
You'll back Marjorie?
I don't know yet.
Him or someone else.
I want the team
that made Pierre win.
How long has it been
since you spoke with Ludovic?
Why?
He'll never agree to work
under your leadership.
You sold him the company.
He's done with politics.
Would you agree to come
and work with me again?
- Why do you ask?
- You're the best copywriter.
I'm not the only one.
You're the one I want.
It's not the first time
you tell me that.
I know.
- That's all in the past now.
- Yes.
Thank you.
- You're back!
- It's not what you think.
I brought what you asked for:
All national news since you left
for New York, including dailies.
May I ask you a question?
You separated and,
since Dad came back,
you're together almost as often
as before, why is that?
You have 2 homes...
When you were away, things were
easy: Worked here, slept there.
- Not always.
- What will I do now?
Maybe you should rent me
a studio.
Bye!
We'll ask the right questions
later. Are you OK?
Bergamot tea, slightly flavored.
Marjorie wants me
to work for him.
Good!
I'm not sure
he's the best candidate.
Ijust heard in Editorial:
if he wins the 2nd round,
all ecologists will rally
behind him, even Center ones.
In any case,
who else would be suitable?
I'm looking...
Left or Right?
Both.
I stayed to take Deleuvre down.
I need the right weapons.
- That state falsehood...
- We can't prove anything.
I'll go over to St. Etienne,
Simon.
Why?
This whole thing's disgusting.
I'll bring it out in the open.
- You're not supposed to know.
- But you told me.
A left-wing lady...
Better than a gentleman
in the Center!
Start reading!
You spent the night here?
I saw a guy
walk toward your room.
Don't speculate.
What were you doing?
Could a woman like her
beat Deleuvre?
A woman at the Elysée?
I'm not sure...
Secretary of State
for Social Affairs,
an arbitrator
for the government...
She's still a girl.
How are things going
in that small bed?
I was just going to ask...
Care to buy me a big bed?
I'll do it tomorrow.
You're such a cool dad!
Since I've been back,
it's the 1st time I hear that.
Good night!
ISEP POLLING FIRM
Possible candidates.
Rate them before tomorrow.
- I need 24 hours.
- You worked faster before.
- You won't defend Deleuvre?
- Why would I?
I thought the team was back
and ready to fight...
- What team?
- Ludovic and you.
What has Ludovic got to do
with this?
Nothing. I made a mistake.
Nothing. I'm sorry.
I pay the tab,
but I don't know the rates.
- We'll see about that later.
- H0w much do you want?
Special treatment:
EUR 40,000.
Send it to my place.
I'll pay in 90 days.
Mr. Kapita!
Mr. Kapita!
You can't go in!
We don't have
the investigation results.
- Nicolas will have them soon.
- How soon?
Please leave us alone!
- Over the weekend.
- Fine.
I'm listening.
What can I say?
What you think
about yourself now.
- You barged in.
- That's not an answer.
I have the right to grow, Simon.
Not this way.
I taught you the ropes
and left you
the company I built.
Now I wait at reception
because you're in a meeting?
Playing games with me?
You won't answer the phone!
I wanted to talk to you
at the right moment.
I'm here now. Talk to me.
- I'll be helping Deleuvre.
- Why?
To learn more, so I can work
by myself, without your help.
I couldn't turn down
this opportunity at my age.
As if you killed the father.
You'd have to take his place.
You chose yours, but
we're on opposite sides.
Didn't you teach me
politics is a wrestling match?
For some people.
And for you, obviously.
There are nobler ways
of fighting.
I'm 15 years younger than you.
I don't see things the same way.
I don't see communication
the way you taught me.
It's also publicity, economics,
politics, social work, news...
It's a whole world.
- Really?
- Yes, it's a whole world.
Like a galmq: You connect
the dots between the planets.
We're like free electrons.
No electron without a nucleus!
Communication's nothing
if you mix everything together!
It's a void! A pit! Nothing!
- You can dress up anything.
- Anything?
Even a State lie?
He's covering up a lie
about Pierre's death.
The country is panicking.
The world is watching.
You'll support the team
that's behind all that?
That's capitalizing
on Pierre's death?
"Dress up anything"!
Impressive!
Was your image photoshopped?
I happened to be there.
Men in the shadows
stay in the background.
- I didn't know you'd come.
- Neither did I.
- Something wrong?
- I met with Ludovic.
He told you?
No, I found out by myself.
But my offer still stands.
You'd be welcome on my team.
- I saw Simon.
- Me too.
You told him about us?
We've been sleeping together,
but we're not together.
If I sleep with someone,
we're together.
- Change the subject!
- No.
Why do you care about Simon?
You ditched him!
My concem's about you.
- No, it's you and me.
- Exactly. What I call "us."
We used to spend
weekends together.
I felt we were together.
Excuse me, it's Matignon.
Mr. Deleuvre isn't available,
but his adviser is.
No, I want Deleuvre.
I won't speak with anyone else.
- He's not available.
- Have him call me! Valentine!
I didn't see it coming,
and I don't understand
how I became so fond
of that guy.
Narcissism, Dad.
What does narcissism
have to do with it?
You wanted him to be
a second Simon,
gave him what
I wasn't suitable for.
- Meaning?
- I'm not a guy, Dad.
- So?
- You know what you are...
aristocratic
with old-world values.
Power is for men only:
Legacies are for sons only.
You were hoping
Ludovic would marry me
and be like a son, which is
better than a traitor.
Are you Internet savvy?
That's how I earn
some pocket money!
I work for a Web firm.
My friends are geeks!
Would Miss Geek work for us?
Great! Would you hire me?
- No, I wouldn't.
- Why not?
You're in school. Work for
the by-elections and we'll see.
See what?
We'll see. Come here!
Dads always say that:
"We'll see."
They like her
in the blogosphere.
They see her as an honest,
sincere politician.
What about her private life
and her children?
Maybe her husband?
As I said, she's divorced.
That's all.
- Lovers? Love affairs?
- No, nothing.
Is she popular?
How does she respond to attacks?
Is anyone attacking her? Why?
I want to know
everything about her.
Find scandals, pretend
you're a cop or a janitor.
Female cop, female janitor.
How about this? In September,
she told a weekly paper
that she sees no difference
between the Left and the Right.
That's interesting:
she's a rightist.
She's Center.
Didn't you read Alain?
Those who think Left and Right
are the same are rightists.
Where do you stand?
Where do I stand?
If anyone asks, say,
"Like Cocteau, extreme center."
- Who told you about this?
- Kapita.
Kapita...
Who asked you
to come and see me?
No one.
Do you realize
what you're saying?
There's no State lie!
The president was killed
by a lunatic.
But that would imply that it was...
someone acting alone.
- It wasn't?
There's greater impact
if we mention al-Qaeda.
- That's not what I asked.
- That's my answer!
The results
of the quantitative assessment.
It's clear.
Deleuvre and Marjorie
are very far ahead.
The election will play out
between them in 4 weeks.
A clear-cut tendency.
Wrong! No one's prepared
for this election.
Deleuvre's 16 points
ahead of Anne Visage.
Marjorie, 15.
If we only take the votes
of Pierre's supporters
in the last election,
Visage and Marjorie are almost
on an equal footing
and the numbers
confirm the statements.
- She's the heiress.
- Backed by a party?
- Pierre's followers.
- That's not a party.
Less than 10 points
means failure.
First, if she runs,
Deleuvre has no votes
in reserve.
Second, if she starts at 14,
I'll make her reach 22.
Why are you approaching me?
You represent the continuity
the prime minister
can't represent himself.
You'll be the side
everyone wants to be on.
Your career path will prove it.
You know my career path?
You were State Secretary,
a state arbitrator for
the ruling majority party,
mayor of your native town,
a non-political appointment.
Your parents were laypersons
and socialist radicals.
They were teachers.
You were raised to revere
the French Republic.
Rather old-fashioned
by today's standards.
I followed
a very classical pattern.
Facebook and Twitter will show
you're much more than that.
But I know much more about
Beethoven than about Lady Gaga.
That could be
our campaign jingle.
I'm a woman,
and that's a handicap.
A tribute to equality...
You have an answer
to everything.
You could choose
someone other than rne.
Among Pierre's followers,
you're the only one
who can beat Deleuvre.
I can't, Simon.
Do you know how it feels to see
a man you admire be blown up?
There's noise, blood,
people's cries...
I still wake up
during the night.
During the day.
Sometimes I feel
the bomb's exploding again,
and I lose my balance
for a couple of seconds.
I'm at the scene
and it's horrible.
Sirens, people checks,
the police...
The terrorists didn't just
get rid of Pierre...
Anne, there's something
you should know about.
Pierre wasn't killed
by an al-Qaeda operative,
but by a desperate man
facing unemployment
who also killed himself.
Deleuvre knows.
He's covering up a State lie.
How do you know?
I don't have any proof,
but I'm positive.
- Why didn't you tell me before?
- I haven't told anyone.
You can't give this kind of news
unless it's ironclad
or you're toast!
There was a witness,
but he's disappeared.
I'm sure this information
will influence your decision.
I need your answer before 8
tomorrow night.
It'll be a very short campaign.
Ludo, can I see you now?
I wrote the 3 copy samples
for The House of China.
- I don't have time.
- You never do.
- I'm going to Matignon.
-2 minutes!
This election's a godsend
for us, every minute counts.
We'll make a grand entrance
and expand!
- In 2 years, we'll be No. 1!
- I need to see you for this job.
You can see me.
I can't!
Valentine! Excuse rne.
Do you know where...
Leave me alone!
Shit!
I need peace and quiet.
That's so cool, Dad!
You're an angel!
I'll get it!
Anne?
I haven't slept all night.
Come in.
I'll make some tea.
Simon, you gave me
till 8 PM today.
That's right.
I'll move faster than that.
It's noon,
but let's pretend it's 8 PM.
I'm in, Simon.
You were very convincing.
That state falsehood
is an attack on democracy.
We're off to a good start.
Hello, Anne!
- Hello!
- Good afternoon!
Senator Robert Palissy
is my political godfather.
I phoned him this morning,
before I went to see you.
He's agreed to be
my campaign manager.
- I don't think we've met.
- No.
The president
set certain boundaries.
I'm delighted you'll be
the one who looks after Anne.
She's always been my princess.
I became senator and gave her
my city hall and my riding.
Bur right now we need
good strategy and money.
Work on the battle plan.
I'll get the ammunition.
- We must hurry.
- What's the legal limit?
14 M for the 1st round,
18 for the 2nd. We need more.
I found campaign funds
for 60 senators.
I can get election money.
Can we discuss it today?
I'm due at the Assembly
in an hour
for an audition by
the Social Affairs Commission.
I'll see you out, Simon.
After you.
Get in!
I used to hate driving.
He's my last driver.
He lost 4 points!
I keep him on staff,
but he lets me drive.
When I left the party,
I founded another one
with senators.
It's our way of recovering
the money
the government hands out
to parties every year:
more than EUR 40,000
per person per year
over a 15-year period
for 11 of us: Do the math.
- About 6.5 M.
- Right!
It's our friend Anne's share
for starters.
It's not enough.
No! She needs a real party:
a structure,
some militants and money.
I'll approach the Democrats.
I was on the founding team.
We'd get a nice return
on our investment.
Let's go! Hold on!
First, we'll submit the statutes
for a funding association.
Tomorrow, I'll send the bank
a check for EUR 7 M.
We'll find campaign facilities
in a working-class district.
We could hang pictures there.
We'll need cash.
We'll start with this.
Ten years ago,
secrets funds were legal.
I got Swiss francs for them
before we switched to euros.
We'll convert them back
into euros.
You'll organize
the launching process.
Shall we go?
I can't do it, Simon.
Let's take a walk.
I told you you'd have to take
very uneasy means of action.
This is more than uneasy:
it's sordid.
There'll be more.
Since the murder attempt,
I get these dizzy spells.
- We'll capitalize on it.
- That's obnoxious.
Anne... Your life is changing.
You'll be working
15 hours a day.
Up at dawn,
back home late at night.
We'll crisscross France.
Every minute will be planned.
You'll have a whole team:
bodyguards, press secretaries,
guys writing your speeches,
makeup artists, hair stylists.
Plenty of stress and speed.
Why am I doing this?
Good question.
Why are you doing this?
For Pierre and to beat Deleuvre.
Where are they?
He's inside there.
Anne, I don't like this
any more than you do.
Come.
Take a long-distance shot.
- The picture won't be as clear.
- I know. I need that.
Stand over there.
On every front page.
What do you think?
She'll run for sure.
- Is your friend behind this?
- Former friend.
Can we influence her?
No way, she's as cold
as a block of ice.
Ice can melt.
Ask Intelligence what they have
on her and on Kapita:
Facts and income tax.
I have to go.
I have an appointment.
I'm counting on you
in this matter.
I don't understand why Kapita
stands behind that bitch.
I wish he were back
in New York.
Not me. I know him inside out.
I can read him like a book.
What would Kapita say
if he was here with me?
- Never leave here empty-handed.
- My briefcase.
No one knows what's in it.
Carry files.
Pretend you're
incredibly overworked.
Put on your glasses
and go through your files.
- I wear contact lenses.
- Who knows?
Show me all the negative stuff
about her.
Convert it into something
positive for the media.
Not tight-lipped, discreet.
Not a go-getter, ambitious.
The media will say
she's a bit severe.
- Reserved.
- Hung up.
- Thoughtful.
- Upper-class.
- But not condescending.
- Want my job?
Lunch tomorrow with
0livienne's right-hand man.
He promised to tell us the tone
of his team's papers.
I want you to become
his best friend.
So... In or out of bed?
Out, if it's an editorial.
In, if it's a 3-column,
front-page article.
Take it easy, it's fragile.
- That's my office?
- It's almost ready.
Try to look cool, Anne.
And we should kiss.
Let's be more informal.
Don't say, "That's my office?"
with disgust.
You'd go from 14 points to 12.
I've recruited Lili, who was
Pierre's press secretary.
Let's be cool, then!
- Hello, Lili!
- Hello.
It doesn't look that great.
Bring your own stuff:
pictures of your children,
the president's picture,
if possible, a picture
of you with the president,
some books, including
hard-to-find classics,
recent publications,
women's mags, flowers.
Avoid red roses
and white lilies.
The computer should be on
at all times.
You must also prepare
your official candidacy.
When?
Right away, for the 1 PM
and 8 PM news.
I'll find someone to write
a draft for your speech.
- Did you ask Valentine?
- She hasn't replied.
She's tops. Everyone remembers
Pierre's inaugural speech.
I'll call her back.
Come in.
You have something
to write with?
Have a seat, Valentine.
We should dwell on insecurity,
but give it a little leeway,
enough to get the Right-Center
to feel at home with it.
For Deleuvre's speech,
the concept should be strength.
Use words like "troops,"
"army," "safety."
Also, use the expression
"the president's killer“ twice.
You walk like Simon.
- He walks like this?
- A bit slower.
Because he's older.
I don't go for that insecurity
with a little leeway, Ludovic.
I'm leaving.
I can't stay here.
What are you talking about?
I run into you,
but I can't see you.
Everyone here runs into me
without seeing me!
I'm different.
Or maybe I blend in
with everyone else!
I don't have time
for anything else,
that's all I can give you.
I'm leaving, Ludovic.
Please let me go now.
You found another job?
I'll be working with
Simon Kapita.
- Simon Kapita?
- Yes.
Realize what you're doing?
Simon never found out
we were dating.
I mean he's my enemy
and you'll be serving him!
Unacceptable.
Maybe it's my way
of staying with you.
Don't treat me like a fool,
Valentine!
He asked me to be on his team.
I accepted.
- You'll promote Anne Visage?
- Yes.
Darling, you'll run back to me
in 2 weeks.
Anne Visage...
I'll give you a week
to think it over.
I don't need a week.
I've been thinking for months.
I can't go on
just running into you at work.
Valentine, you can't leave me
to go and work for Simon.
Choose another place,
not that one!
I feel betrayed.
Which one of us
betrayed the other first?
You can't do this.
Yes, I can.
It's my only way out.
You'll be back in 2 weeks!
Lili, get another desk.
Comfortable, not transparent
so her legs won't show.
We mustn't see if she's wearing
a skirt or pants.
Anne, wear a skirt, not pants.
Excuse me.
Next Saturday,
we're meeting with the president
of the Coalition Party,
Jean Petit.
- How do you feel?
- Great!
Go!
Dear fellow countrymen,
In respectful memory
of our deceased president,
I have decided to run
in the presidential election.
I'm not a member
of the establishment
or the political set.
However, as State Secretary
for Social Affairs...
You must learn to work
with the prompter.
It's not a tennis ball.
Glance to the right and
to the left, just to check.
Let's do it again.
I don't know who wrote
this cOPY. but it's rotten.
"I'm not a member
"of the establishment
or the political set."
She's right!
You should never start a speech
by saying something heavy
like "in respectful memory..."
Use verbs in the active form.
Direct language.
No establishment
or political set.
You must have a positive
and unifying attitude.
Have you met Valentine?
She wrote Pierre's speeches.
She'll write yours.
- Hello!
- Hello!
Now all you have to do
is learn to use the prompter.
0K. go!
Dear fellow countrymen,
The difficult times
our country has been through,
the grief we all share
and the moral insecurity
we all find ourselves in
have prompted me to make
an important decision
and a serious one.
In memory
of our deceased president,
I have decided
to run in the upcoming election.
The nerve!
I want my candidacy...
Is that moron Palissy?
Yes. She succeeded him
as mayor of her town
when he became senator,
then left that position
to become State Secretary,
the 1st time.
...the events
of these past few days
took that away from us.
We'll have to fight
the Left and the Right.
Mainly the Center.
Anne Visage
isn't a true right-winger.
- The Center's weak spot.
- She's fair game.
Fair game indeed: I have a note
from Intelligence
about Anne Visage.
Read it.
- You trust this information?
- Yes.
Kapita'll never be the same.
May I play this round?
- Can't we all play?
- No.
Things need to proceed swiftly
at this point.
We must fight through the media,
and that's my job.
He's right.
Thank you, everyone.
Kapita's wife is in St. Etienne
looking for the witness
to the killing.
- Where is he?
- Far away.
- But you didn't...
- No.
Any danger?
No, but a potential threat.
Then do something about it.
What's up?
Simon, I'm waiting downstairs.
Coming.
What's the problem?
This.
Newsstands open at 6 AM.
ANNE VISAGE
WAS THE PRESIDENT'S MISTRESS
Translatior]: M. Saint-Amaud
Epilogue