THE BRIDESMAID
It was here,
at 5 Argonaut St.,
that Raphaelle Plissier
was last seen.
Witnesses saw her leave her house
and walk toward Jean Jaures St.,
where she was seen yesterday around 6:30 p.m.
According to her parents, her boyfriend had just phoned...
Is this all that's on? You're morbid!
Lay off, will you?
-You're like two vampires. -I'm trying to listen!
Raphaelle was 21 and was studying clothes design.
The district attorney is calling for witnesses...
I know her! She dated a guy in my class.
Some nerve, using the past tense! That's enough.
We're going out with Mom. It means a lot to her.
Screw you! It's the girl from the post office.
Anything to say to your daughter's kidnappers?
Whatever you do, please don't hurt her!
This is unacceptable.
No one mentioned kidnapping. Do your job!
Nathalie Dumont?
We're having trouble with our link to Nathalie Dumont.
That's it!
-What a pain! -You're telling me!
You're like two houseplants. Can't you go get ready?
Do it for Mom. Where is she?
Doing Mme. Chapiteau's hair.
Can't she come here?
She has a cold. She asked Mom to come over.
I bet your friend got raped.
Here comes Mom. Hurry up!
C'mon, Pat. Let's go get beautiful
-You feel like going tonight? -We're doing it for Mom.
Sure!
How are you?
-You're handsome as a god! -You're sweet. Let me take that.
-Where's Pat and Sophie? -Getting ready.
-You don't mind coming tonight? -Of course not
And we owe you that much.
I was at Mrs. Chapiteau's. She has the flu.
I hope I don't catch it.
-You charge her house call rates? -I didn't dare.
Here, this month's contribution.
Nadeau gave me a raise. 100 euros more.
100 euros!
Really?
For once he kept a promise.
You really don't have to. We get along just fine.
Besides, Sophie moves out next week.
Glad to marry off your daughter?
I'm especially glad she found a nice man and won't live far.
This wedding give you ideas?
You'll see,
Gerard's very nice.
You're very nice, too.
Think it's smart to bring you?
If you live together, he may as well get used to us.
Come with me.
-What? -Come on!
Would you mind very much...
if I gave Flora to Gerard?
What're you doing in the cold?
You're as lovely as angels!
But Patricia, must you keep that thing in your nose?
Mom, that's my style!
Mom wants to give away the bust of Flora.
To who?
Gerard. But only if you agree.
It's yours. Dad gave it to you.
Do what you want. I don't care.
Me, neither.
Does he have a yard?
Yes, and bigger than ours.
He makes a very good living.
If it makes you happy, give it to him.
Thanks, kids.
Do we take Chip?
Better not. He doesn't care for dogs.
He doesn't like dogs?
Let me, Mom. It's heavy.
He doesn't hate them, he's just not crazy about them.
-Sure he'll like it? -Absolutely.
One day he came to the house...
-You never told us! -I don't tell you everything.
He saw Flora and said she was gorgeous...
That she looked like me.
Turn right here.
I'll take it. It's heavy.
How old's this Gerard?
A little over 50, but he doesn't look it.
Too bad he doesn't like dogs.
It's Christine.
Great house! Why's he selling?
For his divorce.
He has to split everything with his ex-wife.
So he drives a Jag!
I was waiting.
But I'm not late. Hello, Gerard.
I brought the kids... So you could get acquainted.
-Good idea. -Patricia, lthe youngest.
Sophie, who's getting married,
And Philip, my oldest, who's in sales.
Gerard Courtois.
This way, please.
Make yourselves comfortable.
Sit down.
I'm delighted to meet you.
We brought you a gift.
What is it?
-It's heavy! -It's stone.
I can't accept this.
You can't refuse a gift.
Then I accept it. But really...
I'll put it by the roses.
Could you put it on the table there?
That's really sweet, Christine. Thanks, the four of you.
-Do you like Italian food? -Love it!
There's a nice little Italian place nearby.
What do you think?
I'm lucky to have a little spot like this so close.
Why move, then?
You know why.
Besides, I've found a pretty nice place.
I'm not losing out.
-So, when's the wedding? -Ten days from now.
-Not with your fiance tonight? -He's on duty.
What's he do?
He works at City Hall, but he's also a volunteer fireman.
You don't say!
Happy about this wedding?
You know I am!
And he's a very nice guy.
Too bad I'll miss the wedding.
Mom said you're going to Italy?
That's right. But not for pleasure.
I leave day after tomorrow. Some business to wrap up...
No marriage plans, Philip?
-What about Marion? -What about her?
-Not an item anymore? -No, we're not.
Then I can't have her as a bridesmaid.
What's this bridesmaid nonsense?
I'm just kidding.
She's awful. Good thing you dumped her.
I didn't dump her. We decided to stop seeing each other.
There's a difference.
-Who's the osso bucco for?
-Think he enjoyed meeting you? -Not really.
Why not? He was nice. What'd you think?
He's not exactly the Kevin Costner
you were dreaming of!
-And he's older than Dad. -Not that much.
He's tripped out.
What d'you mean?
You know, tripped out!
I'm all mixed up.
Some days I think he's great, other days I don't.
Anyway, he's going to Italy. He can think things over.
I'll take Chip out. I'm thirsty.
Think I can call Jacky? Would it make him happy?
Go ahead and try.
I'm going to my room.
What do you think?
-About what, Mom? -About Gerard.
-What can I say? -Say what you think.
I don't know.
Nice house, nice car...
Mrs. Crespin just called, furious.
She says we didn't go by the plans.
-What's she mean? -I dunno. It's your job to find out.
I'll stop by tonight. I have to see about redoing a bathroom.
Pitch 'em some Jacob fixtures, I'm overstocked.
No problem, boss!
-When's the wedding? -In two days.
I'll recover my license in 3 months. I want my car back intact.
No worries. So long, boss.
I told Mrs. Cassar to come to you.
Hairdressers raise their rates every month.
And usually, it's apprentices who practice on you.
By coming to you, compared to the usual price,
every third haircut is free!
And it's just as good, if not better.
I do my best.
It's not too light, is it?
-When's your daughter's wedding? -In two days.
The girls are working on the bridesmaids' gowns.
You got a card from Gerard.
Hello, Mrs. Chapin. Sorry, I mean Mrs. Soupin.
I just came to pick up a file.
So he got a good job?
Yes, he's very happy.
Mine's on welfare. He could work, but he won't.
The Crespin file...
Now what's that old hag want?
-Can you lend me 100 euros? -What for?
-I gotta buy some clothes. -You sure do. Ask Mom.
She's broke, and she's got other worries.
-He sent a postcard. -He's a creep.
Look...
I've only got 20 euros. Will that do?
You're a real stinge.
Pat, come help. We'll never finish.
Coming!
Thanks anyway.
I won't spend all day doing this!
What're you doing?
She's hemming her gown.
I'm sewing a bow on the bridesmaid's.
Can't she do it herself?
Senta, sew bows?
You don't know Senta.
No, I don't. What kind of name is that?
Her name's Stephanie,
but every six months she changes her name.
She's Jacky's cousin.
We were in class together 5 years ago.
She was a year ahead.
She's not a bad sort.
I prefer Stephanie to Senta.
You can tell her.
Seen Mom?
There was a postcard for her in the mail.
From Gerard?
About time! Ten days and not a single phone call!
-Not even a letter, just a postcard? -I'm sure he's a creep!
Don't jump the gun. Maybe he's busy.
No call in 10 days!
A phone call doesn't take hours.
-You take the man's side. -That's not it.
But I'm not accusing him either. I'm off.
-Take me into town? -Sure.
-I promise, I'll finish tomorrow. -You'll never be serious.
I won't do it for you. If your gown's too long, tough!
I don't care.
Anyhow, I won't wear it. Virtue sucks.
Let's go.
It's weird Sophie's leaving.
It's weird for me, too. But that's life.
Don't you like Jacky?
He's okay, for all I have to see him.
He's dependable.
Well, if he's dependable...
What's on your mind?
Her life won't be a picnic every day.
Life isn't a picnic. Only you think that.
I wasn't born to have a bad time.
Drop me at the corner. A friend lives there.
Does he have a job?
Thanks, chauffeur.
Send me the estimate ASAP.
Sure, within a week, okay?
As soon as possible.
I should tell you that two other firms are in the running.
I'll sign with the fastest and the most advantageous.
That's perfectly normal.
You're a nice young man. Do the best you can.
-You can count on me, ma'am. -Goodbye, young man.
Excuse me, is that Gerard Courtois' house?
I don't know his name. He's in the moving business.
-I hope to see you soon. -I hope so, too.
Excuse me. You may remember,
I came with Mr. Courtois the other night.
Who's Mr. Courtois?
A regular customer. He lives up the road.
-The guy with the Jag? -That's right.
A hell of a nice car.
But he doesn't live here anymore.
He had to sell. He moved last week.
I know.
Would you happen to know his new address?
How should I know?
I feel bad, he asked me for a favor,
and I can't reach him.
But you haven't moved?
If he needs you, he knows where to find you.
Don't worry.
-You're right. Thanks. -Don't mention it.
Yep, I sold her on the Jacob Delafon fixtures.
But she played the competition card.
I'll take her an estimate tomorrow. I'll say I stayed up all night.
I'm off to see Crespin.
Mind if I don't stop by the office tonight?
Thanks, that's really kind.
Hi, Mom? I'm not bothering you?
Mind if I'm not home for dinner?
Mr. Nadeau wants to talk. You really don't mind?
I'll be home as soon as I can.
I promise. Lots of love.
Oh, it's you!
Patricia's not back.
She must be with friends.
She could at least call.
And she left Sophie with all the sewing.
-She's not nice. -She's not the only one.
-You mean Gerard? -Yes.
I bet he met an Italian beauty. It's just as well.
Forget about it. Go to bed.
I already live with the memory of one man. Your father.
I don't need another one.
He's a creep. I found out he sold his house.
I'm sure he's back from Italy. Forget about him.
I have, I told you.
Then go to bed.
I'll deal with Patricia.
-Sophie seems very happy. -Sure she does.
-You'll speak to Patricia? -I promise.
-Tomorrow? -Sure, tomorrow.
I'm scared to death.
It's normal, sweetie.
That looks fine to me.
Ready for the picture... my little lamb?
I'm coming.
Let's go! Move in closer around the bride and groom.
They look so dumb!
Closer to the bride and groom! That's it.
Don't move! The light's not great.
Here we go.
Groom, stand still... one more, please.
Now with a flash.
-Jacky, I'm cold. -My little pet is cold.
-Will that do? -Yes.
Thanks, girls...
And gentleman!
-You're Philip, Sophie's brother? -That's right.
I'm Senta Bellange.
Pleased to meet you.
Senta, come here a second?
Coming. See you later.
Right, later.
-Who's the snoot? -Jacques' cousin.
Doesn't she look like Flora?
You are united in wedlock in God's name.
Let us pray and give thanks to the Lord...
May the Lord bless these rings
as a sign of your love and faithfulness.
I give you this ring...
This is for your father.
-A double helping, then! -Yes.
Jacky, watch what you're doing!
Here, Gustave.
-Thanks. That looks good! -I should hope so.
Come give us a hand, honey?
How about a song, Dad?
-I'm eating! -Please, the one you sang the other day.
Okay, Sophie,
your wish is my command.
I tasted some Argenteuil red
And that wine gave me the runs
I wanted a taste of glory and guns
Instead I got a bullet in the head
-The rich and famous of this world... -No, not now.
Not now, a different one.
I have another one.
I remember the times when I was a lover...
And all over the world There were we two and no other...
Damn, it's raining.
So much the better.
Wedding showers, a marriage flowers!
That's what they say.
-Leaving? -I have a job to finish.
-Want a lift? -I can get home on my own.
-Fine... It's raining. -I noticed.
-So goodbye. -Bye, Philip.
-Leaving so soon? -I have work to finish.
You smoke like a chimney.
Why the hell should you care?
You're my kid sister and I saw what shape you came home in.
Don't worry, I won't tell Mom.
What do you want? My gratitude?
Get off my back. You got nothing better to do?
You were nicer when you needed money.
You'll get it back, you jerk.
-See you later. -Yeah, later.
Who's he?
My brother. Pain in the ass!
-Can I come in? -Sure you can.
-What happened to you? -No taxis, so I walked.
Where's the bathroom?
The bathroom's...
Upstairs. I'll show you.
You're drenched.
You can't stay like that.
I'll get you some dry clothes.
I borrowed a bathrobe.
That's my mother's.
This is all I could find, but at least you'll be dry.
Put them on. I'll take you home.
I'm cold.
Hold me close.
Say my name.
I want to hear it in your mouth.
Say my name.
Say it again.
Life's incredible.
No, it's not.
You're the one I was waiting for.
You're my destiny and I'm yours...
That's all.
The minute I saw you, I knew you were meant for me.
I've always been looking for you.
Does that scare you?
No, why should it scare me?
I don't know.
Want me to stay the night with you?
It's impossible. I can't do that to my mother right now.
Then my place.
-You live alone? -Of course I do.
And now my house is yours.
-Is Senta your real name? -Yes.
It's the heroine of The Flying Dutchman. Know it?
-No. -You should, it's wonderful.
I studied the role for an audition. But no go.
Too bad.
You an actress?
I prefer to say actor.
You mean actress?
Actor. You don't say "surgeoness" or "judgess".
"Actress" is silly.
-Ever do any movies? -Theater mostly.
-Where? -In París.
There are lots of little theaters.
I did an American movie once.
It was about courtesans
and set in the 18th century.
I had a scene with John Malkovitch but it was cut.
-You weren't good? -No, Malkovitch wasn't good.
-He told me I made him nervous. -Wow.
-Interested in television work? -I only get offered stupid stuff.
I won't go to waste. I'd rather wait.
When I need money, I do photo sessions.
Leave it.
It's gross!
What is it?
A bum hangs out here and leaves crap around.
I can't stand it. We almost had a fight once.
The manager neglects your building.
-There isn't one. -There isn't one?
All co-ops are supposed to have a building manager.
But I own the whole thing.
Come on in.
You live all alone in this huge place?
No, my mother lives upstairs.
But I never see her. I hate her friend.
You really live here?
-Why? -I don't know...
it smells so musty.
It doesn't seem like a girl's apartment.
What's that mean? There are girl apartments and guy apartments...
And asshole apartments?
I didn't mean to offend you.
You didn't. I can't be offended.
I just thought it was a dumb remark.
Sorry, I have a short fuse.
-You're allowed to disagree. -No, I'm not.
We should always think alike.
You're right, I don't live here.
I live downstairs. Come see.
No man's ever been down here.
Welcome to my realm, my love.
-What's so funny? -Nothing.
-Tell me. -I'm afraid to.
Tell me.
Why dye your pubic hair?
What d'you mean, dye it? You stupid or what!
It's all red.
It's not red, it's auburn.
I dye the hair on my head, you fool.
-Like 'em? -What?
My pubes.
I like everything.
Time to sleep.
I'm in Paris for the day.
Back late tonight.
My home is yours and I'm yours.
No, we said 2, 3, 4, crossover.
You did 2, 3, crossover.
No, I did 2, 3, 4, crossover.
If you'd done 2, 3, 4, crossover,
you'd have gotten it right.
Let's start over.
That you, Philip?
-Hi, Mom. -Where have you been?
Your sister and Jacky came to say goodbye but you were gone.
They'll be at the shore until Tuesday.
Want some coffee?
Love some. First I'm going to shower.
Careful not to wake Patricia. She's still asleep.
She really had a ball last night.
But she came home with me.
She didn't drink. She's a good girl.
Eating here tonight?
Sure. Why do you ask?
Because you didn't sleep here.
And you won't tell me where you were?
No, Mom.
-You have Wheaties for breakfast? -No, nothing special.
-You do the Bertillon estimate? -Yep, right here.
She's already phoned. Another pain in the ass!
Let's study it over coffee.
It doesn't look like you got much sleep.
-You're not concentrating. -I'm fine.
How'd the wedding go?
Fine, like a wedding's supposed to.
How old's your sister?
23.
I have to explain a few things.
You billed for everything.
You don't bill everything, or we'll never manage.
I don't work for the tax man, see?
It's clear enough.
So buckle down and fix it. Are you up to it?
Sure, no problem.
As fast as possible.
I'll talk Bertillon into waiting another day.
Okay?
I'm not available. Do the best you can.
-Watch out, you moron! -Sorry, I didn't see you.
-That's no excuse. -Did I hurt you?
What d'ya think?
Can I give you a cigarette?
Whatcha doing here?
Got a hot date with Sleeping Beauty?
-You know her? -Sort of.
I don't like her.
Because she don't like me, or else I wouldn't care.
She wants me to clear out. She thinks I'm dirty.
Rest easy, she's not home.
Wanna bet? She's home, I saw her.
She got back last night.
Shit, it's raining again.
Wait, I'm really sorry. Take this.
Thanks, governor.
-What time did you see her? -The hell with time!
It seems like it's been forever!
-You just get home? -Last night, as planned.
I called all day.
I slept. I unplugged the phone.
There was no point calling then.
-You mad at me? -No, I'm not mad.
-How'd it go? -Fine.
I had a film audition
and a photo session with another model.
A man?
A woman.
Sexy pictures, but with a woman.
-I missed you. -I missed you, too.
-Take me to the beach. -Now? It's raining.
It stopped. The sky's full of stars.
Take me to the beach.
-Was she pretty? -Not bad.
Want two girls at once?
I don't know. I've never tried. It's so...
You should have! Now it's too late.
You're not allowed.
You're mine.
You ever try two men at once?
I've tried everything.
You're lucky to have a family. My mother died giving me birth.
Doesn't she live upstairs?
That's not my mother.
She's my father's second wife.
My mother's name was Knud. She was Icelandic.
Want to hear my life story?
Sure. I don't know. If you want.
You should, you're the man of my life.
-Got a cigarette? -Yes...
I mean no, I think I'm out.
Want one?
Yes, please.
At 16, I went to Morocco,
to check it out.
I stayed there for two years.
I just hung out.
I spent my time smoking hash.
It's pathetic.
I got sick of it.
I went to New York for a year.
I was broke. I worked in a bar.
I thought your Dad left you money.
But not a fortune.
And there's Rita, his second wife.
-The tango dancer. -Right, sorry.
She got a share.
I'm telling you everything.
The bar I worked in was a pickup joint.
You know,
Where customers stuff money in the dancers' G-string.
What do you mean? You were a waitress?
No, my love.
I was a dancer.
But I got sick of that, too.
I came back to France.
Since I'd had a bit part in a Woody Allen movie,
I took acting classes and auditioned for drama school.
You more into plays or movies?
In decorating, you more into blue paint or white?
Both.
Same here.
Come on, I want to make love.
Here?
-I can't, it's too wet. -I like it.
It's all wet!
I don't want us to be apart. Come sleep with me.
You envied my family. You know, it's...
Come sleep with me.
What's your mom like?
She's the bravest person I know.
That damn pig's here again.
He makes me sick. He's the epitome of filth.
-I think we're alone. -Where are they?
Who knows? Out dancing somewhere.
So, about your mother...
My father must've been a creep. She's a hairdresser.
She raised us on her own, sacrificing everything for us.
She almost fell for another creep.
But luckily he dropped out of sight.
-Never do that to me. -I don't plan to.
How'd your mother take it?
As usual, with a lot of courage.
What's this creep's name?
You won't believe this: "Courtois". Gerard Courtois.
He was "courteous" enough to move away overnight.
Your mother didn't want to tear his eyes out?
That's not exactly her style.
Come sleep in my arms.
Good morning, my love.
Stay there, I'll get you some coffee.
-What're you looking for? -Just looking at your books.
If anything tempts you, take it.
-It's instant. That okay? -Sure, fine.
I'll get some sugar.
Strange, you have nothing on the theater, no plays.
-So what? -If you auditioned for drama school,
You have to learn plays. You should have some.
-You think I'm lying? -No.
Yes, you do! You said so!
You don't trust me.
-You don't really love me. -Stop it.
If you don't love me, you can leave.
Listen darling...
That's not what I meant... -I don't think you understand.
I thought we had something strong going.
But for you I'm just another girlfriend.
That's not true. I love you, Senta.
You're not at all just another girlfriend.
Darling, I really love you.
Saying you love someone is serious.
I'm sure I love you.
You're the one I've been waiting for. I knew it right off.
You're my other half, my karma.
Are you sure you love me?
Of course...
Of course I love you. Like I've never loved anyone before.
Then do something to prove it.
Sure. What?
I've been thinking about it.
We'll each do something tremendous to prove our love.
What do I have to do?
Some people say
that to live fully you have to do four things:
plant a tree,
write a poem,
make love with a person your sex, and kill someone.
Pardon!
So,
plant a tree, write a poem, kill someone.
What's the fourth?
Love with a person your sex.
Well, look: plant a tree, write a poem,
those things I've never done, but I think I could.
Kill someone and make love to a man...
There, I admit, that's not really
my cup of... instant.
-And who should I kill? -Anyone. It doesn't matter.
What counts is the gesture.
A gesture that places us above ordinary people.
My love...
You enjoy telling stories?
What stories?
You know as well as I do.
-So stop. -No, I don't know.
Tell me.
The stories you make up...
Your travels, the auditions in Paris, your wayward life...
Actress or not, you should write scripts.
Think I'm a mythomaniac?
That's not it.
Sometimes I admit it's entertaining.
But not always.
Killing someone isn't a joke.
So you won't do it?
Look me in the eye. You won't do it?
Can we change the subject?
You're scared.
I thought we were alike.
Quit talking nonsense.
What world do you live in, Disneyland?
You call this living, buried in this rat hole,
sleeping half the time
and making up stories the other half? Wake up, Senta!
Kill someone to prove my love?
Get out of here.
Get out of here!
Whatever you say.
Couldn't you get an extra day?
They did what they could.
We had two wonderful days, Mom.
Back already?
I have to be at City Hall at 10.
Mr. Nadeau's already called.
I'll call him back.
Sleeping out?
He can do what he likes. Had breakfast, darling?
Don't bother, I'll just have coffee.
patricia's not home?
She's in the shower. She came in at 2 again!
Why wait up for her, Mom?
We can't change her.
You weren't as difficult.
See? You picked right.
-Want some toast? -I'll get it.
Thanks, Jacques.
Look who's here! You remembered our address?
I came for the money you owe me.
You're in for a surprise.
Cut it out.
You mention the gown?
-What gown? -The bridesmaid's gown.
Your cousin Stephanie's. The snoot. Tell him!
Mom found it balled up in the bathroom.
-Tossed out like trash! -Stop it!
I knew she didn't like it, but...
I washed it and that's that!
Say, Jacques, explain something to me.
You and Stephanie are cousins?
My mother and hers were sisters.
Half-sisters. She tell you about it?
At the wedding. But it seemed a little muddled.
She often acts weird.
But you know,
being motherless must mark you.
You never told me that!
I never had a chance,
my little lamb.
My mother and Senta's mother were born in Rekjavik.
Mom came to France at an early age, Senta's mother stayed.
She died giving birth to Senta.
My father went for her, but Aunt Rita raised her.
She must have been...
2-3 months old when she arrived.
Where's her father?
Some father!
The bastard never recognized her.
He was married with five kids.
He just screwed her mother.
Poor girl.
Why, Philip? You interested in Senta?
Not especially.
I hate to rush you,
but Mrs. Peroti's coming to get her hair dyed.
Can't she dye it herself?
You obviously don't do the running around.
I'll clean up, kids. Philip, call Mr. Nadeau.
Keep an eye on Patricia. Mom's worried.
-Don't worry, I will. -Well, we're off.
See you soon.
So long, Jacques.
-Come have dinner one night? -Sure.
Bye, my darlings. Keep in touch!
Mr. Nadeau? It's Philip.
I left at least four messages on your cell!
It's not working right. I need a new one.
Crespin is on our back again. She's threatening to sue us.
Go try to calm her down. If I go, I may murder her.
I'll handle it.
She says it's a cob job. Anything not to pay!
I know. I'll work it out. Don't worry. Goodbye.
They did it all wrong!
I said: a horizontal radiator. They did the opposite.
I won't pay a cent until they change it.
We have to make sure it can be done.
You weren't here?
I was at my sister's.
-There a law against it? -Of course not.
I'll check with the crew. If it's feasible, we'll work something out.
-Don't worry about it. -At your expense.
-I'll send someone early next week. -When's that?
I'll check the schedule.
I'll go speak to the plumber.
If it can be done, I'll send a man Monday or Tuesday.
-It will take 2 or 3 days. -That long?
Sure. Let me check.
Yes, two days, at least.
Can you believe it?
Senta! I know you're there.
Looking for someone?
I came by to see Senta.
I don't think she's home, is she?
You a friend?
-I'm her mother. -Pleased to meet you, Madam.
My friend Pablo.
I don't know if she's home. We're just back from Lille.
You dance the tango, right?
Yes. We just took part in a competition.
We should have won it,
but my partner was too distracted.
If you see Senta,
tell her to come upstairs from time to time.
Since she moved down there, we never see each other.
I'll be sure to tell her. Goodbye.
I just saw the Crespin woman.
I found a way to calm her down.
That's mean. She's just a lonely old woman.
Need me at the office, otherwise?
Then I'll check on the Guillemin job,
and go home to work afterward.
You like endives?
They used to be more bitter, and better. We'd add sugar.
That you, Philip?
Are you eating in?
No, I already had a sandwich.
I'm going up to my room.
Think he has a girlfriend?
I don't know and I don't care.
Help me instead of just staring at me.
Can I come in?
What?
Can I come in?
Sure. Just a second.
What's the matter? You realize it's almost 10 a.m.?
-I didn't hear the alarm. -You're not sick, are you?
Just exhausted.
I went out like a light last night.
I'll have a quick shower.
-You're on the move more and more. -I like it that way.
I made you some toast.
-I could've done it myself. -It saves time.
Did you go into the money tin?
-No, why? Is there money missing? -There sure is.
100 euros.
It's a mystery.
Can you lend me 20 euros?
I need hairspray and I haven't a cent on me.
Sure.
-Is that enough? -Yes.
I'll pay you back tonight.
Where's Patricia?
At an interview for a sales job.
-I wish she'd calm down. -Don't worry.
She'll calm down.
What is it now?
How are you?
-I hope I'm not disturbing. -Not at all.
It's Jacky's cousin.
Sure, it's Jacky's cousin.
I was nearby and I remembered
I'd left my gown after the wedding.
I'll take it and wash it.
Don't worry. I took care of it.
-Could I keep it as a memento? -Of course.
Can you get it, Philip? It's in the big wardrobe upstairs.
Excuse me. I must run. I'm late for an appointment.
'Bye, kids.
I thought I'd go mad.
-Let's go to my place. -I have to make a call first.
-Later. Come on. -It's for my job. It's urgent!
Mrs. Crespin?
Philip Tardieu, of Nadeau Contractors.
How are you?
Fine, thanks. I'm calling as promised.
I spoke to our experts and, as I feared,
installing the radiator any other way
would mean changing the plumbing.
That's right. We'd have to change the pipework.
Yes, it's pretty costly, but mainly very long.
It would take about five or six days of labor.
We're not crazy about that kind of work,
since things tend to snowball...
with no end in sight. You understand?
I won't drag you into a lot of unending repairs
you might regret later.
Yes, I understand perfectly.
If you want my advice, I'd leave it as it is.
It was all carefully installed
and you won't have any problems later on.
And I think the layout is very aesthetic.
Sure, it's just my opinion.
Stop it, please.
That's nice of you, Mrs... Mrs. Crespin.
I try to do what's best.
Thank you, Mrs. Crespin. Goodbye.
See you soon.
Coward.
Let's go to my place.
I wanted to finish what I started.
-Don't forget the gown. -Sure. I'll get the gown.
It feels so good to be with you. I was so scared.
I had something to do. I couldn't see you before.
It's alright. Everything's fine.
I saw Rita and her partner.
-She told me. -Really?
He doesn't look very bright. But your mother seems fun.
She's not my mother. Let's not talk about them.
-What do you want to talk about? -Us.
-Why won't you stay? -I can't, my love.
I have to see Nadeau and check on some of our work sites.
You're lying.
No, I'm not lying.
I'll come for dinner tonight.
Just set the table, and I'll see to the rest.
Okay.
-Want me to make you a sandwich? -a sandwich?
-With what? -I don't know.
-What'll you do this afternoon? -Nothing.
Wait for you. Stay in bed and do nothing.
-Go see a movie. -I won't see anyone but you.
Careful. I'd find out.
I never lie.
1-7-9-15. Make your choice.
-Number 1. -The first.
Let's see what's behind the first.
The win of a lifetime?
That'll never happen to me.
-You just have to play. -I doubt it's enough.
You just say a number! You can do that much.
I didn't learn to earn money that way.
What happened to you?
You're handsome as a god!
-I think so, too. -Where you going?
Nowhere special.
Is she pretty?
Avoid the docks. They found some guy strangled.
Yes, be careful honey.
How d'you know that?
It was on the radio, and even on the TV.
Then I'll avoid the docks. Have a good evening.
Have a good time, honey.
Does he have a girlfriend? Do you know anything?
I don't give a shit.
The Sancerre.
-This one? -Just fine, thanks.
Excuse me, ma'am.
Can I help you?
I'd like a few tomatoes and olive oil.
This way.
Poor woman. Did you recognize her?
They released the daughter's boyfriend.
These lunatics should have their nuts cut off.
96,45 euros.
6,80 euros, ma'am.
Nothing worse can happen to a mother.
They say a man was attacked on the docks.
A tramp, it seems. As if things weren't bad enough.
A 55 YEAR OLD HOMELESS MAN,
JOSEPH DUFREIGNE, FOUND MURDERED IN THE DOCKYARDS
-We both had the same idea. -So it seems. You look stunning.
Because we're one person now.
What do you have there?
Salmon, foie gras, brioche bread and wine.
Everything I love.
-I thought it was me you loved. -You, most of all.
Sit down. I'll get it all ready.
What's this?
Take a look.
I did it.
-Did what? -What you wanted me to do.
-But when did you do it? -Last night.
Tell me everything.
How'd you find him? Did you follow him?
I did it. Isn't that what counts?
Tell me! Did he scream?
No one saw you, I hope?
I don't want to talk about it.
Look, my love, I did it, and that's that.
Thank you.
-It's normal. -That's great.
Thanks to you, I won't see him again.
You won't see who?
The tramp polluting the neighborhood.
He was filthy as sin.
That's Joseph Dufreigne. And you killed him.
The bum in your yard?
Don't act innocent. Isn't that why you killed him?
I don't want to talk about it.
I couldn't stand him. He was the epitome of filth.
So you told me.
Our thing is so strong you knew you had to kill him.
Without my asking, you knew it.
-Yep! I'm like that. -Then I'll do the same for you.
There's no need.
-Yes, there is! -Think so?
You don't see things as they are yet.
You still don't see we're very special people.
That we're above everything.
Laws. Morality.
But I know you'll realize it.
You'll cut loose from all the pettiness weighing us down.
You'll see the world as it really is.
As something mystical.
Magical.
You've taken a step towards that by killing for me.
You realize that, don't you?
Do you understand what I said?
Sure, I understand. Now go to sleep.
What are you doing? Dressed already?
I was watching you sleep.
You're handsome asleep.
But I wanted you to move.
Been up long? I didn't hear you.
-I was up at 4. -What for?
-Can you guess? -I admit I can't...
Think.
It's pointless.
Why would you get up at 4 a.m. on a Sunday morning?
I have no idea.
I went out to prove my love.
I killed someone.
Sure, you did.
Look, Senta...
please, honey, change the subject.
-Let's not start again. -You must listen to me.
I got up at 4 and I went to the bus station.
I took a bus to Gambetta.
Then I walked two miles to throw anybody off my trail.
You can skip the details. I believe you, my love.
No, you have to listen.
I walked two miles
until I reached the houses in the woods.
Why did you go there?
Can't you guess?
I killed Gerard Courtois.
I killed him for you at 7 a.m.
That's why I disappeared that day. You gave me his name.
So I went looking.
His office is in the phone book.
I managed to get his home address.
He jogs every morning. Didn't you know?
I figured if he jogs every morning, he'd jog on Sunday, too.
And I was right.
I hid behind a tree. I saw him take his dog out.
His dog?
A black Scottie.
And then I killed him.
You said he'd behaved badly toward you and your family.
That's why.
How did you do it?
I pretended to have a speck of dirt in my eye. I asked for help.
-So he helped you? -He came over.
-He bent over because he's tall. -Yes, tall.
He looked to see what I had in my eye,
and I stabbed him in the heart with a glass dagger.
-With what? -A glass dagger...made in Murano.
They're very tapered and sharp.
So sharp the victim doesn't even bleed.
I'd bought two in Venice on my travels.
The poor little dog whimpered over his master.
It was awful.
That's strange. Gerard hates dogs.
Apparently he doesn't.
-So it'll be in the papers. -Probably.
-You love me? -Of course I do.
Well, I'll take a shower.
You know that audition I did in Paris?
It worked out.
I got the part.
Nothing big, but I have a couple of scenes with Michel Serrault.
-I play his daughter. -That's terrific.
I'm wild about this pasta.
Good, isn't it?
Enjoying it?
I was just telling him that. It's Italy's best.
Some Spaniards told me that.
Aren't you eating?
It's very good, but I'm not hungry.
Force yourself.
I'm not very hungry.
You don't look so hot.
I'm not feeling well...
I won't ask why.
But I must say I'm pleased with your work.
Whatever you did to Mrs. Crespin,
the old goat was all honey today.
-Was she? -You must tell me your secret some day.
I don't know. Maybe good sense.
It's not always enough.
I told your mother I want you as a partner.
-My mother? -She called me this morning.
I'd just got in. She was looking for you.
You didn't come by last night.
True. It wasn't nice.
I'll go see her.
Would you like to be a partner?
Partner?
Yeah, sure.
-Next year? You on? -I'm on for next year. Sure.
If you won't finish... I'll take your pasta.
It's too good to go to waste.
I'm out of sorts. I need to walk a bit.
-Meet you at the office. -Okay.
Go see your mother.
It can't be. She couldn't have.
I know you, don't I?
You're Christine's son.
-Philip? -That's right.
What brings you here?
I have a few clients in the area.
What a coincidence. I live here now.
-How's your mother? -She's fine. Just fine.
I'm real glad to see you. To see you in good shape...
I'm glad to see you, too.
How'd your sister's wedding go?
Just fine.
Maybe we can have a drink or two.
I'd love to, but I have someone waiting at the house.
That dog! It doesn't stop howling.
Sorry, fella. Another time.
-My regards to Christine. -Sure thing.
-Tell her I'll call one of these days. -Okay.
That Senta's crazy. Just crazy!
How sweet of you to come see me!
Guess who I just ran into? Your friend Gerard.
Really?
You speak to him?
Naturally.
How did he seem?
He looks fine.
He sends his regards. He'll stop by sometime.
I'd rather he didn't. It's behind me now.
You're right. Anyways, he's not a nice guy.
I'm going back up to my room. Be right back.
-Are you here for dinner? -Unfortunately not. Forgive me?
Sure. But I'm worried about Patricia.
She came home last night in such a state!
What state?
Any money I leave around disappears. I think she's on drugs.
She may smoke a joint now and then...
Well, you're not worried. You seem merry as a lark.
I am, Mom.
Listen...
Let me breathe...
I have to find a vase.
Put them in the sink for now.
Darling, I did something foolish.
Here...
Château Yquem. Put it in the fridge.
And I have a present for you.
Like it?
I want to live with you, Senta.
Sure, it's old-fashioned...
You're old-fashioned, my love.
Will you marry me?
This is the happiest day of my life.
One thing, Madam. We have to find an apartment.
No way am I living in a basement.
We can move upstairs. But it needs refurbishing.
That's no problem. Is it nice upstairs?
-Want to see? -I sure do.
The front door key.
My home is yours.
That you, Senta?
I need something upstairs.
It sure smells up here!
There must be a dead rat around.
Maybe. I never come up here.
It's furnished?
It's old family furniture.
I've never lived here. It's too big for me.
The bedroom's there, and the bathroom.
It's locked. The key's downstairs.
We'll have some work done.
We'll disinfect. It really stinks.
We'll be very happy here. It will be great.
I'd be happy anywhere with you.
You're unbelievable.
You have a great place and you prefer the cellar.
It was enough for me.
-Shit. -Don't answer.
I have to.
Speaking.
I'll hold on.
Mom? What is it?
I don't believe it!
It can't be!
Yeah, sure...
Let's stay calm.
I'll be over as fast as I can. Don't worry.
What's the address?
Yes, sir...
I'll be as quick as I can. I'm on my way...
My kid sister just got arrested.
She stole a camera. They found other stuff on her.
I didn't quite get it.
I must meet my mother at the police station. I can't leave her alone.
Of course not.
-Sorry, I have to go. -I'm sorry for you.
Come back to me.
We found over 20 watches in her bag.
Clearly, she's not new to shoplifting.
I can't get over it.
What was her explanation?
Like everyone her age, she sent us packing.
Then she'll break down and cry.
-It's not like her. She's tough. -Don't say that, Mom.
I don't blame you, Madam.
I have a daughter. She's tough, too.
We wonder if she works alone or as part of a gang.
A gang?
-Philip Tardieu is here. -Show him in.
Thanks for coming down so fast. Get him a chair.
You realize what's happening?
I'm sure it'll work out.
-Your mother's filled you in? -Absolutely.
Can you tell us if you think your sister's a kleptomaniac?
-The Captain wants you. -But I'm busy.
It's about the Green Lane case.
Then I'll go. You stay here? Will you excuse me a minute?
Be right back.
What'll we do?
Relax, Mom. It'll all work out. Jacky know?
-I called him at City Hall. -And?
-He'll see what he can do. -Can he do anything?
Well, he's just a town clerk.
The Captain would like to see you. Follow me.
Sure. Right away.
I'm coming.
-Can I see my sister? -I don't know.
Please sit down, Mr. Tardieu.
Since you're here, I wanted to have a little talk with you.
Your sister was caught shoplifting? She a minor?
Yes, sir.
These kids are something.
It will be a lesson to her.
What will you do?
Nothing much. We'll hold her a day or two to scare her.
And then,
you or your mother should keep an eye on her.
It's not always that easy.
What were you doing this morning on Green Lane?
Excuse me?
You were there?
Yes, but not this morning.
After lunch, in the afternoon.
What for?
What's the problem?
None as far as you're concerned.
You know a Gerard Courtois?
Sure, a bit. He's a friend of my mother's.
He lives on Green Lane. You went to see him?
-Is he in trouble? -Not at all.
But he informed us of your presence...
at Green Lane this afternoon.
I don't understand. So what?
Mr. Courtois was away for the weekend.
He left his house to a cousin from Lille, mr. Lavoignat,
who was in the area and came to visit him.
Courtois came home this afternoon,
but his cousin was gone.
I'm not being clear.
Mr. Lavoignat was spending two weeks in the area
and Courtois naturally invited him to be his guest.
Mr. Lavoignat had a little dog,
which didn't thrill Mr. Courtois.
-I know he doesn't care for dogs. -So I gathered.
When Courtois got home,
neither the dog nor its master were home.
Which is not surprising since about 4 this afternoon
some neighbors found both of them
in the woods at the end of the street.
The dog was whimpering and barking
over Mr. Lavoignat's body.
He was dead?
He'd been dead for several hours.
That's horrible. What happened?
I just got the autopsy report.
Very preliminary. Not very detailed.
He was stabbed
with a glass blade, the one you see here.
It must be some kind of Venetian glass dagger.
It broke during the act.
The blade remained in the victim.
The murderer must have held on to the handle.
So, let me ask you:
Why were you on Green Lane this afternoon?
This doesn't concern me.
I'm sure it doesn't, Mr. Tardieu.
But we asked Mr. Courtois and his neighbors
if they'd noticed any unusual presence.
He mentioned you.
I get it.
So let me ask you again:
What were you doing on Green Lane?
I saw a client in the area.
Since I was there, I visited Mr. Courtois in his new house.
To make my mother happy.
That's all I needed to know.
Your mother and sister have gone home.
I told Mrs. Tardieau
we'd be releasing young Patricia later this evening.
If you need to reach me for anything, ask for Lieutenant Laval.
Like Pierre Laval. No relationship.
I'm José.
It can't be!
She can't have done that!
Is that you, my love?
I know it's you.
Senta, you did it. You really killed someone.
I told you I did. I killed him for you.
But it wasn't Gerard,
it was someone who had nothing to do with this.
So what? I killed him for you. Just like you killed for me.
But with me...
Darling, I've thought it over.
We should stop seeing each other for a while.
Why?
I have to take care of my sister and my mother. They need me.
I need you, too, Philip.
I'll die if you're not here.
If you love me, you feel the same.
I do feel the same.
Look, I can't talk here.
Why not?
I'm in a park. There are people around.
Those people don't matter. There's just you and me.
But I can't talk with them around.
I don't understand.
I'm going to hang up.
I'm waiting.
I'm hanging up.
I'm waiting for you.
Hey, I recognize you.
You're the governor.
-I thought you were dead. -Not yet!
That you were killed in the port.
Don't get me mixed up.
I knew the guy.
He was pretty worthless.
Don't get me mixed up. I'm a decent fellow.
Where'd you go? You just disappeared.
I'm sure Little Miss Stuck-Up didn't miss me.
I was in the hospital.
Some plumbing problems.
I'm like the world. I'm falling apart.
You look fine to me.
They washed me out.
I lost my cardboard boxes.
Gotta find a new home.
Listen to me...
You take this.
But you have to switch neighborhoods.
I'm glad to make your day.
I knew you'd come.
I didn't believe you.
Our love is stronger than anything.
I feel so lost without you. I need you so badly.
If we're to live together, you must help me.
I can't do it alone, or I'd have done it long ago.
I have something to tell you:
There was someone before you.
Martin Leroy. Back in high school.
Had I known you, I wouldn't have given him the time of day.
It's weird. It seems like another life.
But you're here. You're mine. We'll never part.
I won't kill anymore.
Stop talking about killing all the time.
You're right.
But I'm not strong enough. Come help me.
She wanted to steal Martin.
He couldn't take his eyes off her.
If I'd met you first,
I wouldn't have had to kill her.
But you're here now.
Help me. We'll put her in your car and bury her in the woods.
We have to hurry.
Rita and Pablo are due back tonight from a dance contest.
I hope they win. They rehearsed all night.
You can't stay here. It's crazy. Come on...
I don't want to leave.
Where would I go?
I won't go anywhere without you.
But you can't stay here. C'mon, I'll take you far away.
-I don't want to. Help me. -Come on.
Come with me. Listen, Senta,
I told the police. I didn't want to, but I did. So come on...
-I don't believe you. -You have to.
You must.
I'm a good actress. I called her. I lowered my voice.
I pretended to be Martin. She fell for it.
She didn't suspect a thing. Stupid girl!
I'm sorry about Gerard.
I wanted to make you happy.
I wanted to prove I'd do anything for you.
You're not angry with me?
You're not mad?
I love you so much.
You're my whole life.
You won't leave me, will you?
Tell me you won't leave me?
You won't leave me?
Of course not.
I'll never leave you.
Ever.