Original subtitles

This film was restored by PaTHÉ in 2016

Any similarity to real-life characters bears no resemblance at all.

Any resemblance to real people is not deliberate or done on purpose.

If this story has happened to someone, we confess that we had no idea.

The events described in this film did not happen on purpose to anyone.

Any resemblance to prior events is no reason to blame us.

Perrot, give yourself up!

Never!

We rush him?

Wait. Clément can work it out.

against the wall, dammit!

Here he comes.

Boss, get down, he's firing.

He's dangerous. Get down!

Give me that.

Thank you.

Perrot, surrender! It's me, Clément!

Never!

I'm going to arrest you!

Sir, he has seven bullets left.

That's nothing. Just stay down.

Stop, Clément or I'll shoot!

One...

Two...

Three...

The bastard!

Four...

Hold on...

Five...

Six...

Seven! Let's go!

- You're under arrest. - I give up.

Bravo, Clément. You got me.

You're a real man.

You'll be a cop, son.

Yes, Dad.

20 years later...

Sit down.

Here are the division's promotion results.

First place: Cantini, Robert.

Yeah!

I'll take Marseilles. I'm from there.

Second place: Dutreix, Jean-Baptiste.

- I failed, I can tell. - Hold on...

This will kill my mom.

What name? How do you spell that?

- Well? - No news.

- a good sign. - No, I know Michel.

If he'd got in, he'd have called.

Yes, sir. I understand.

a table for two at 10 pm.

47th place: Zibet, Étienne.

- Paris for me. - That's for losers.

- So we'll be together. - Zibet!

Coming!

Hopeless. I failed gym.

- and shooting? - I hit the ceiling.

Unlucky guy.

I don't care. It's for mom.

A pack of Pall Malls, please.

Thank you. Excuse me!

Michel?

- I'd like to book... - We're full!

119th place:

Bonnefoix, Bernard.

- You still stand a chance. - In 13 million, like the lottery.

120th, the final member of the class to pass,

on the jury's indulgence

for the services rendered by his father, Clément...

Michel.

You got in.

- Clément, Michel! - Yes, here!

Thank you.

Only one left.

- Good, I don't have to choose. - No.

- It's Paris. - I'd have picked that.

Sorry.

INSPECTOR BLUNDER

Mom!

Mom!

Michel! You failed!

- Yes... No... - You're out or you're in?

I have it all!

Look, mom. I have it all.

all of it. Look!

- Let's tell your dad. - Yes!

He got in!

On my slate. He got in!

He got in!

The kid got in, Dad.

He's an inspector.

Trainee for now.

He got excellent grades.

Let's drink to him. Open the bottle.

Careful.

- It's ok. - It scares me.

My boy got into the police!

Cheers.

How's it going, Gégé?

- You got in? - Yes.

- Hey, guys! - I'll go round.

all right, hands up! Gambling's banned in bars.

- article 214 of the penal code. - You got in?

- What is this? - Seriously?

Cut it out! No, Mustapha.

It's loaded. Cut it out.

You can buy us a round.

Start toeing the line, ok?

You never said that before.

I'm a cop now.

Open the bubbly.

I don't have time. I drank at the cemetery.

Come on, Michel...

He works tomorrow, unlike you lot.

I have to be in shape to go after the gangsters!

We can celebrate on Friday.

- Yes! - Friday evening.

See you round.

See you on Friday.

Yeah, ok.

So, guys, do we get him a gift?

- Sure. - are you flush?

You would be, if you worked.

You need to stop seeing certain people now.

They're throwing a dinner to celebrate me getting in.

I have to go to it.

Vice paying tribute to virtue! They might try to use you.

- You read too many thrillers. - Sure.

- Finished? - No.

His trench coat.

- He made seven holes in it. - Yep.

I had it mended, Michel.

Your dad would love you to wear it for your first day.

I told you I won't wear it!

- Why not? - It's old-fashioned.

No cops wear trench coats now. We dress casually these days.

Really? Why not like a hoodlum too?

Michel, I want to see you in a suit and tie!

Only gangsters wear suits and ties. That's how we spot them.

Crooks, ministers and so on are in suits and ties.

Michel, your father is ordering you.

Just a second, officer.

You look good in that suit.

It reminds me of my poor Jules.

- Forgotten anything? - No.

- Let me see. - It's ok.

I have it all. I already checked.

Bye, ducky. See you later.

- Bye, son. - I'll be fine.

Don't worry.

- How's it going? - Fine.

- Hi. - How are you?

- Your dad was iced in that? - Yep.

I guess they saw him coming.

- Mom made me wear it. - Right...

I want to sleep. You're pissing me off!

Anyone interesting in this morning's round-up?

Meh. Small fry.

- Morzini has cleaned up. - We have the Dandy.

He was banging a blonde.

- He had no time to dress. - Fetch him.

Book them all.

- Ready? - I'll just get changed.

See you later.

There he is!

- It's bad exposing yourself! - It wasn't me!

I didn't do anything!

Hello. I'm here to see Commissioner Vermillot.

Who is he? What has he done?

I'm a reporter...

- Here's the Dandy. - He tried to get away.

Straight to the chief.

Welcome to HQ.

Thank you, sir.

Lost your fancy suit, Dandy?

- It was my dad's. - Sit!

Just now...

The Dandy must have a lot to tell us.

Yes, I'm happy.

We'll be happy too to hear what you know, pal.

Come, Zingo, don't be so familiar with the Dandy.

I don't mind.

- Tell us about Roger. - Heard of Roger Morzini?

You see.

You worked together a while.

A misunderstanding, sir.

Clear it up.

- Talk. - I don't know.

I had my dad's suit on.

- You were naked. - With a blonde!

His mother?

Mum's a brunette.

Why did you run off?

Questioning must be firm but non-violent, sir.

You're pissing us off!

- I can tell. - Got a second, boss?

Coming.

A reporter wants to follow one of our teams...

Your men hit me. It's scandalous.

We're not choirboys. Get rid of her.

- You don't know who I am. - I don't care!

Gently, boys. Tone it down.

I have connections.

and I pull the plugs. Get rid of her!

- I'm sorry. - I should hope so.

are you the new trainees?

Yes, but one short.

Come and meet Commissioner Vermillot, your new boss.

Yes?

The new trainees.

Step up, gentlemen. It'll be your turn soon.

What does the Dandy say?

He's a barrel of laughs.

He says his name's Michel Clément and that he's a trainee.

Yes.

That's Zibet and Libenstein.

They're the new trainees.

Shit.

Welcome to the force!

Congratulations. Have a drink.

Thank you. That's kind.

Easy does it.

- It burns! - It's nothing.

The infirmary will fix you up in no time.

- They're used to it. - You're too kind.

It hurts.

It won't show this time tomorrow.

The bitch!

- Well? - She vanished.

Too bad, I'd have liked to get the photo as a souvenir.

- Hi, guys. - Hi, Mr Cushy.

Christmas is over. No more presents for your clients.

This one's a cop.

You can beat cops up now?

- He's a trainee. - That's no reason!

- Michel Clément. - Your new partner.

Did he slip?

You don't miss a thing.

It's crazy how many people slip here.

It's not a cop shop anymore. It's Holiday on Ice.

Michel Clément?

My dad was Jules Clément. You knew him?

Yes, he came out of the ranks!

a true hero. The idiot got himself killed.

We'll make a fine team.

It's cushy if you don't overdo it.

Where are we going?

This is routine work.

Look to the left, the right and the middle.

We keep an eye out. all the time.

- Inspector Watrin... - Watrin speaking.

Check out Place Breteuil. The Movers have been spotted. Over.

We're on our way.

Stake-out time.

Stay 50 meters from your surveillance target.

You see everything without being spotted.

Who are the Movers?

a gang with a lot of nerve.

They can empty an apartment in an hour.

Hi, Charlie. Hi, guys. The vacation's over?

Yeah. Don't you retire soon?

Yes, that calls for a drink!

Wait here, I'll be right back.

- Don't be too long. - No.

Calberson Removals

How does this crap work?

Hello, Watrin?

What is this shit?

Hello, Watrin?

Calling Watrin. Clément here.

Remember the dope in the magistrate's bag?

Clément here. Can you hear me?

Watrin, I need advice. Can you hear me?

Watrin here. What's going on?

Well, the movers just arrived.

They're already emptying out the whole ground floor.

No, I don't know what to do.

Get here fast. Hello, Watrin?

I think they suspect something.

They're looking at me.

They've spotted me. What do I do? Quick!

They're coming over.

I'm going to hide.

They're looking at me.

They're all big guys. Huge!

I can't arrest them, I don't have enough cuffs!

We're on our way, son.

They're here now!

What's going on? Watch out!

Watrin, I can't see them! What's going on? Where are they?

Help! Stop!

They're stealing the car! And me with it!

Napoleon!

- Watrin. - Clément.

This is the 7th precinct. What's going on?

What's going on?

Clément!

Clément, give us your position.

Where are you, Clément?

Next to the flowers.

On a square where Napoleon stood.

Napoleon Square doesn't exist.

I'm on the pedestal where Napoleon stood.

They pushed Napoleon off and put me here.

Give your position.

Watrin!

Mr Watrin, I want to get down!

Where did you find him?

Help!

No, I'm ok.

I'm ok.

Will you publish them, Dad?

You don't even know who he is.

a poor guy beaten up by the cops.

I never attack the police in my paper.

It's no way to get access to HQ.

Fine, I'll manage on my own.

Children, what a headache!

Get me the Interior Minister.

You can't deny you beat up this poor guy.

Let's say we did. So what?

I want to follow a team.

- What if I say no? - The photo goes to the press.

- Blackmail? - No, news.

Perhaps you should speak to the victim.

If you like.

Watrin? Send Michel Clément to my office, please.

Who is he?

A cop who'll say the victim attacked him?

You beat a man up, now say he resisted arrest?

Show some originality!

Come in.

You sent for me, sir?

Yes, come over here, my dear fellow.

How kind.

Color shows the bruising better.

Still, a black eye's black in black and white.

Meet the victim.

Trainee Inspector Clément, son of a police hero.

- You wish to press charges? - No.

I get the message.

Beat it before I book you.

Yes.

Hello, Mr Minister.

What do I owe you for the photo?

She's in my office as we speak!

Miss Prossant.

Delighted to, Mr Minister.

Of course, sir. Of course.

We help the press whenever we can.

Certainly, sir. Goodbye.

There, it's all settled.

It's all clear now.

So you wish to follow police operations?

- Yes. - With which team?

Mr Clément's, say.

Watrin and Clément? Our best team.

I'm in an unmarked police car with Inspectors Watrin and Clément.

Two plain little men who'll never reach the highest ranks.

What happened the other day?

- No idea. - You were in your shorts.

Give him a break!

I have a right to know.

I came to work in my dad's suit.

His shorts?

No, they mixed me up with some other guy, that's all.

With your father?

No, the guy in a blanket.

His father's dead!

a new stage in the war between departments?

He slipped, that's all.

Nearly there. I'll let you handle it this time.

These are the stolen items.

Our first mission puts us on the trail of some stolen antiques.

all right. Lepages or Gastinne-Renettes?

Lepages. I see you're a connoisseur.

In the force, we know all about revolvers.

- Unique pieces worth 200,000 francs. - Two of them.

The young trainee seems to know antiques.

- Ok? - Get a description.

Right.

Can you describe the people who attacked you?

There were several of them, possibly young.

But they wore masks.

Clues are thin on the ground.

I'll keep the photo and let you know.

If you see anyone resembling your attackers,

call me at HQ. Inspector Clément.

all right, Mr Clément.

- Is she a policewoman? - No.

- She's a reporter. - A reporter?

I have something that will interest you. Come on.

an old typewriter...

- Will she piss us off long? - Who can say?

Back in the unmarked car,

an electric atmosphere reigns.

We're on our way to the Rouchard reenactment,

the canal rapist case.

Commissioner Vermillot.

Captain Grandel.

- He's all yours. - Thank you.

Do you have a dummy for the reenactment?

No, that's your remit, commissioner.

We could use one of your men.

We simply brought the prisoner.

- a problem? - No, everything's fine, sir.

We can get started. Clément!

Here, sir.

You can play the little girl.

What?

You play the little girl.

- Lie with the rapist and play the girl. - Me?

Come on, old chap.

It's an order.

In that case...

You're the girl?

He asked me to stand in.

all right. Rouchard.

He, little girl.

You do, with him.

Well, you redo what you did.

Little girlie!

- Hold him back! - It's ok.

She was on her way home from school. Walk by the trees.

The poor girl was eating her afternoon snack.

- Is there a snack? - Little girlie!

- Do you have a snack? - No.

My mom could have given me one.

Start walking.

Go on, Rouchard.

Little girlie!

Help!

Little girlie...

Stop! This is madness! This guy's crazy...

I protest!

The victim couldn't defend herself like that.

Stop!

Little girlie...

He's mad!

Stop him!

Little girlie!

The guy's totally mad!

I believe it was raining when the crime occurred.

That's right, Mr Prosecutor.

It's not raining today.

It's just not raining.

Start again.

- Go on, Rouchard. - Little girlie!

Really, sir!

Check the psychiatric report.

My client has homosexual tendencies.

Little Marie Darget was raped six times!

This is unacceptable!

I'll file a complaint about your methods!

Girlie!

Rouchard's getting away!

- Stop him! - He's getting away!

I'm not a little girl.

Look at the state you're in.

- If your mum saw you... - Spare me the crap remarks!

It's all right.

What a job!

Champagne!

Can't you wait a second?

It doesn't stain.

Loulou!

What was it we said?

We said that as Michel's our pal...

even though he's a cop now,

we decided to get you a present.

It's easy enough.

Let's have it.

Here you go.

That's kind.

Shall I open it?

Lepages. Like them?

Yes...

- a surprise - You said it.

You like pistols.

True...

They must have cost a fortune...

Only the best.

How about a speech?

Come on, Michel. A speech.

I won't make a speech because...

We have ways of making you talk!

He makes others talk now!

Ok, thank you for the meal

and for the... present.

You realize the mess you're in?

- I said I did. - Why did you accept?

I had no choice.

I told you they'd be trouble.

If you refuse to report them,

take them back to their owner!

I'll look pretty dumb.

This button started it writing. It still works, you know.

The paper went in like this.

Write your name if you like. It really is marvelous.

- Excuse me. - Of course.

- What is it? - It's nothing.

It's nothing.

Hands up! The revolvers are on the table.

No, not again!

The revolvers are right there.

"Michel Clément..."

- No! - That's my inspector's name!

- That's not me. - You're teasing me!

Yes, you are.

No!

- You found them? - No!

Bravo! Thank you, inspector.

Let me give you a kiss. It's wonderful!

Your friend's odd.

- Is he a bit... - Yes.

- That one? - No.

Inspector Clément, tell me more about your methods.

The hidden camera lets us watch the Champs-Élysées.

So you're relying on pure chance?

a crowd is the best hiding place.

There are wanted people out there.

Someone like Morzini?

No, let's not exaggerate.

- That one? - No.

- Look. - No.

- When did you call in? - Quarter to.

Can you sign it?

Hi, Roger.

Hi.

- Sure about this job? - It's almost too easy.

One gun will be enough?

We could do this job with darts!

Hands up! Well, those who can.

With equal chances for all,

the handicapped get held up too.

Come on, guys.

Gold, silver, the works. Help yourselves.

I told you it'd be easy.

You said it.

Hey, guys!

Guys, shit!

Watch out!

Cut it out!

Cut it out or I'll shoot!

I'll shoot!

Stop there!

Shit, more of them!

Stop or I'll shoot!

Let me out or I'll shoot!

Move, bitch!

This is it, sir, we've located him!

- Morzini? - Yes.

He just tried to hold up a jeweler's workshop.

Calling all cars. We've located Morzini!

Morzini!

All cars head to Porte de Vanves. We've located Morzini.

Bastard!

He's crazy! Stop it!

What's up with you?

She wanted action so here we go!

But where?

To arrest Morzini.

You can't do this to me two months from retirement!

Mom, when we tell Dad this, he'll be so proud of me!

He's as dumb as his dad was!

HQ to Vermillot, what's the situation?

I haven't spoken to the prefect

but you can tell him we're about to pick up Morzini.

And his hostage?

For God's sake!

Get the hell out, bitch!

He just freed his hostage.

Nothing can stop us now!

Look, boss, that's Watrin's van!

- Watrin? - Yes, boss!

Morzini's in the Citroen. Ram him!

Ok, boss!

Stop, Michel! Stop!

I've got him, Mom!

What's that jerk doing?

Brake, for God's sake!

Boss, I nearly got him. What a bummer...

Thank God there are no witnesses.

Great work! I was here. I saw everything.

Shit...

Me, with that mug?

I'm ready to change, but not for that!

Don't worry about it.

Those nostrils are hideous.

I wouldn't mind that one!

- Impossible. - Why?

It's just impossible.

Too bad.

- This one neither? - No.

Too energetic. Too young.

No good.

- This is too old. - Yes.

It's out of the question.

Hopeless.

- Too political. - No good.

- Well? - I think I can manage that.

Yes, I can.

The flabby chin, the bone structure, the nose...

I can do it.

- Don't screw up. - I said I can do it, ok.

Let's go with this.

Mr Champagne?

- Police. Do you know this young man? - No.

- Never seen him? - Never.

He doesn't know him. Goodbye. Thank you.

Ever seen this man?

- Hello, sir. - Can I help you?

Police.

- Do you know this man? - No, I don't.

Never seen him?

I've never tried this model before.

I hope I get it right.

Scalpel.

It was an incredible break for a young reporter,

being there on the spot.

Indeed it was, without wishing to brag.

But it's a shame we weren't able to arrest Morzini.

Why not?

I think the police simply weren't up to it.

If I were Morzini, I wouldn't be worried.

I'd feel perfectly safe.

- What did your bosses say? - Bullshit.

They must be mad you nearly got Morzini before they did.

Being Mr Prossant's daughter must help, surely?

It urges me to make my own mark.

You're one of France's richest heiresses...

Money doesn't buy talent.

Would you like to meet Roger Morzini?

Of course, I dream of it. What a scoop!

That's the reporter talking.

But as a woman... They say Morzini has a way with women.

That hair stylist look...

tinged with fake virility...

Personally, such vulgarity,

is a complete turn-off for me, to put it bluntly.

My intuition is rarely wrong.

The Don Juan act is a front to cover up his homosexuality.

You're saying Roger Morzini is gay?

A closeted gay, in fact. The worst kind.

Well, that's my opinion.

Hello? Who is this?

Give me the smut and get it over with.

You have a lot of nerve, Miss Prossant.

So you can speak.

You should be more careful.

Who is this?

an impotent homosexual.

a hair stylist. Does that ring a bell?

Morzini. Roger Morzini.

In person.

Where are you?

Near enough to give you a chance to check soon, baby.

I spoke to Roger Morzini

He calls her and she's on the front page.

My daughter won't stop at this.

Morzini loves publicity.

- I'm worried. - If she provokes him...

We'll have her protected, Mr Prossant. Discreetly, of course.

Nothing will happen to her.

She was determined to be a reporter without my help.

Thank you, I have to go. Oh, I nearly forgot...

- For the widows' fund. - Thank you, Mr Prossant.

- We won't let her out of our sight. - Goodbye, gentlemen.

I'll put our best men on this.

It's pathetic. You're totally lacking in imagination.

Sorry, sir, I...

For months now, Morzini has made a complete laughing-stock of us.

Now we know his next victim, what do you do?

I protect her...

- You protect her? - Yes.

Ridiculous.

He has to try to kidnap her. Understand?

So protect her, visibly.

But instead of using your best men, use the worst, future retirees, losers,

total dimwits... You have plenty of them on the force.

- He'll kidnap her! - He'll try.

But if you have discreet back-up, with your top men...

Get the idea?

What's going on?

We're investigating reporters.

Covering the event.

- all right. - We have to cover you.

I'm not cold.

Too bad.

For God's sake!

are you crazy?

Crazy yourself!

First you follow me and now you ram me!

- What a nerve! - Pervert!

He tried to corner me to rape me!

- I'd arrest him if I were you. - Not true. I'm with the firm.

- at ease. - You messed up her car.

But I... It was her!

ask the other guy...

- Pretty, isn't it? - Very.

It's perfect.

See that short fat man there?

He keeps following me.

I'll see to it.

Can I help you?

are you with someone?

No... Well, yes...

What can I do for you, sir?

- Do you do men's socks? - No, we don't.

I wanted some...

Goodbye, sir.

No socks at all?

No, sir. Goodbye.

Well?

There's another exit. Do your homework, pal!

She scared me.

- Protection isn't a piece of cake. - I've seen worse in my time.

She's perfectly charming.

Yeah, she's not bad.

We start in 10 seconds!

10 seconds to go! Quiet, please.

- Sir? - Police.

Hello, ladies.

Today, we're glad to welcome the remarkable young reporter,

Marie-Anne Prossant.

Marie-Anne,

you've marked a point against machismo

in its most monstrous and criminal aspects

by attacking Roger Morzini.

Yes and no, because Roger Morzini is not

someone you can call a true macho.

He tries to put across the image of a young Romeo,

but he displays all the characteristics of impotence.

You said it.

Well?

How do you feel?

Wonderful, doctor.

If Roger Morzini is watching, I challenge him

to meet me and grant me an interview,

because he must realize I'll describe him as he truly is.

For him, a gun replaces sex.

Morzini is a perfect impotent

pervert.

In other words, a lot of imagination, but few outlets for it,

leading to an inner conflict that needs release.

a killer.

It's a case of mental illness.

Morzini may be watching this show.

aren't you afraid that he may react violently?

I have police protection. My guardian angel is here.

Camera 2, pick him out.

Morzini, meet Michel Clément, my protector.

See, I'm perfectly safe.

Take a look.

Well?

Your own mother wouldn't know you.

What? My mother wouldn't know me?

Even looking like Frankenstein, she'd know me, get it?

Yes.

Tell me... Do you recognize me?

Yes.

You could give the cops my new description...

No, I don't recognize you at all.

Please! Just go!

Go. I won't make you pay. No need for that.

Just go!

No! Not that!

Nighty-night.

It's... a flair.

It's... I don't know.

It's a rather odd approach to journalism.

It's my background...

I'll take care of you.

But I'd like to know what people think.

How long does this go on?

- What? - How long do I have to put up with you?

- We protect you. - Try someone else!

Very funny. I have orders. The guy's dangerous.

That's what I like!

With cops around me, he'll never come out!

If he does, we arrest him.

You? You couldn't even stop a bus!

You're too much.

Once I get my scoop, you can have Morzini.

They're still there!

Stuck to me.

I won't have you taking risks.

Dad, I'm not taking any risks.

I had the wind at my back...

This is it.

Hi, guys!

What's up, Michel?

Hi, Gégé.

already plastered?

- How's it going? - Sign us up.

- Look at this. - Beautiful.

- Want to win it? - You bet!

So do as I say for once.

Just play your ball the way I tell you.

Ok, I get it.

Your turn, Michel.

A little quiet, please.

Place yours just next to it, ok.

- I'll show you. - Gently.

Watch this.

Mind the gravel.

That's not what I told you to do!

Another, next to it.

Just past it, ok.

Gently. You can do it.

Go on.

Not too hard.

Go on, you've got it.

Well played!

Well done!

This one feels good.

Go on, place it.

- I can manage it. - Place it.

- I place it? - Yes.

- I'd rather kill it. - No, place it, I said.

Not bad at all.

Go on.

- Not bad. - What do you think?

- I want to kill the left one. - Yes, good idea. Do it.

Kill the left one.

No, the right one rather.

No, left is better.

- The right one. - No!

There, you see.

Attention, everyone, we're about to play the last point.

Could we have some quiet, please?

The rag...

- I'm not sure. - What would you do?

Frankly, I don't know.

Do what you want. Go ahead.

a bomber?

I'll try a bomber.

I'll try. I didn't say I'll succeed.

Fantastic!

See that?

That was a good game.

That was thanks to you.

You threw the boule.

You know the game well.

I've been working at it two months.

You run a club?

No, I'm antoine Collard, the thriller king.

I'm working on a new crime story

set in the world of boules.

- I'm doing research. - That's funny.

- Not really, it's work, pal. - It's funny 'cause I'm a cop.

- A constable? - No, an inspector. Just promoted.

Look, brand-new.

Inspector! That's incredible!

It's true.

Listen, let me buy you lunch. I have loads of questions.

- actually... - Listen, you owe me that, pal!

If you like.

I know a small place with smoked salmon...

It's out of this world.

With a nice white wine? Sancerre, say?

Sancerre? The best.

Nice car. Thrillers pay well.

Yes, I like it. It's comfortable and fast.

It can get up to 200, 210.

You drive that fast?

- Now and then. - Not scared of the cops?

You have to be careful.

- You've got a nerve. - Shit!

- Here we go. - I forgot my license.

And you say you're careful...

Gentlemen... License, please.

Here.

- I'm with the firm. - Carry on.

Drive, pal.

Well?

It's good. You were right.

- We have the same tastes. - Think so?

Yes. Besides, we're in the same business.

I don't agree there.

Sorry, I only just joined the force but thrillers...

they're full of shit. I'm not saying it to offend you.

I've stopped reading them. They're full of mistakes.

- Now we're pals, you can help me. - If you want.

A bit more salmon?

- Yes. - Two salmons.

Big ones.

You should carry your ID papers on you.

Yes, you're right.

You're right.

I need to make a call. I may have lost them.

Excuse me.

Coming!

- Yes - Merlino? Roger.

- Who? - Morzini.

Roger?

Yes.

Yes, photos, ID papers.

Why do...

None of your business. When?

Tomorrow, 5 pm.

58 seconds.

What?

Your call lasted 58 seconds.

I'll teach you something. You have to limit a call to 59 seconds.

- at 60 seconds, it can be traced. - What?

- If the phone's tapped. - Seriously?

That's something you can use.

- Yes, I'll use it. - 59 seconds, you're fine.

60, they've got you.

Haquenbush Gangland plastic surgeon found dead

and Morzini?

Absolutely nothing.

It's like he vanished into thin air.

Nothing odd around Miss Prossant?

Hi! You look exhausted.

- Ever followed a chick all day? - I'm not into that.

You wouldn't believe the energy level.

- They never stop. - Where is she now?

In her bubble bath.

- Let's join her. - You jerk...

- Shall we get a drink? - If you want.

a guy tries to kidnap a girl in my new novel.

- Right. - So I have a few tricky questions.

I'd like to show you something.

Is it interesting?

I think you'll like it.

- Police HQ? - Never been here?

- Never. - You're missing something.

We can't bring people.

But you're a pal.

Thanks.

Are you pleased?

- Very. - Good.

Coming?

- Hi, Michel. - Hi, pal.

Homicide.

Hi, Clément.

Come with me.

Come on.

- Hi, Maigret. - Hi, Clément.

Fingerprints.

It was Morzini who did Haquenbush in.

Yeah? are those his prints?

Yes, we found them there.

Want your prints on a big screen?

Come with me.

Come on. Look.

- Give me your fingers. - No.

It's all background for your novels.

No...

Clément, get to the office. News on Morzini.

He's getting papers from Merlino. We'll pick him up.

Gotta go, it's Morzini. Still free for dinner?

- In theory. - You'll see, my mom's fun.

Hello, Merlino.

Who are you?

Calm down.

Don't you recognize me? Roger.

Shit, Roger. What did they do?

Expecting someone?

- No. Why? - We had an appointment.

- Yes, but you're early. - Is it a problem?

No, not at all. It's ok...

I thought maybe we could have a chat.

- Merlino, the king of the photo. - No!

How about a still life?

- a still life? - No...

The neighborhood's in lockdown? We'll hide inside.

Merlino! Where is that jerk?

Clément, find the lights.

Lights, that's a good one. a photographer has to have lights.

Shit...

Got them, boss!

Boss! Get in here!

There, boss!

Let's leave.

Calm down, Clément. Keep your head.

There can be no doubt, gentlemen.

The information had to come from HQ.

This is serious.

What about the fingerprints?

What? Did I say something stupid?

You don't scare me.

I don't plan to, Miss Prossant.

Your voice isn't unpleasant.

I've been told that before.

You won't let me interview you?

I'm already famous. Everyone knows my name.

You're a star.

You could say that. A sort of star.

Stars have an obligation to their public.

- The Right Bank. - How long now?

40 seconds.

I suppose...

I want to meet you...

- 19th or 20th district. - We've got him now.

56 seconds.

I'll be in touch.

- Shit, he hangs up too soon! - He knows about it.

We've narrowed it down. Send cars there.

Calling all cars, focus on Morzini.

Morzini is in the area. Question everyone.

- Here. - How kind.

Flowers for your mom.

She'll be pleased.

You're kind.

My father, the doe-eyed hero.

It's all hell out there.

The neighborhood's in lockdown.

Lockdown?

Yes.

You even listen to that at home?

Yes, to keep myself posted.

- Know what? - No.

- Morzini's around here. - Sorry.

- I'm sorry. - It's ok, I have plenty more.

I'm on the midnight shift. Tough, huh?

I hope they get him this time.

I'm getting scared for Miss Prossant.

They're close.

Maybe he's nearby.

- Expecting someone? - No.

- Your mom? - She has a key.

- Hi. - Seen anything?

- No, want a drink? - No, we have work to do.

all right, see you.

Colleagues asking if I'd seen anything. I live here,

so they ask.

Right. Got anything to drink?

Help yourself from the bar. There's ice in the fridge.

all right.

Your girlfriend?

No, the chick I'm protecting. Miss Prossant.

are you two an item?

You're crazy! That only happens in books.

I bet you're not dead set against the idea.

She's a pain.

They're the kind we prefer, pal.

I don't.

She has a crazy idea of interviewing Morzini.

Wow, what a scoop!

She's always saying, "What a scoop!"

So?

She's obsessed. and he wants to kidnap her.

What do you care?

If he kidnaps her, we'll never find her.

- He'll ice her. - Hey, come on, admit it.

You wouldn't be in love with her, would you?

You're nuts!

Believe me, love is like a fast car.

It's soon gone.

Bullshit.

- Nice-looking. - Morzini?

No, the lamb.

The lamb looks good. Morzini's an ugly bastard.

You don't want to cross his path.

are you handsome?

No, I'm a cop, it doesn't matter.

It takes looks to be Public Enemy Number One.

Your photo's on all the walls, like a star!

You're...

Don't be so dumb, I'm kidding.

Writers are weird.

You identify with all your characters?

Cop or gangster, depending on what you write?

Yes, it comes with the job.

You should add a bit of garlic.

Lamb needs garlic.

You actually thought I could be Morzini?

He could talk just like that.

Yeah.

That woman of yours,

would she stop if she got her interview?

You bet. The scoop is what she wants.

Hold on...

I'm getting an idea for a story.

Yes, I'm going to try it.

What are you up to now?

I have an idea.

You'll see.

There.

It'll be a great joke.

- You look like Morzini. - Could it work?

- It's funny. - People say I look like him.

You couldn't speak. She knows his voice, stupid.

He calls her all the time.

Hold on, there's something that might possibly work...

Yeah?

Then again, no. You wouldn't know what to say.

That's my line of work!

- Here. - Thanks.

Have you got her number?

- What for? - If it works, will you play along?

- It bothers me. - It's just a joke.

7052138.

7052138? Don't move.

This'll be good. What a joker.

Heard the latest news?

Morzini has an accomplice in the police.

- at HQ? - Yes.

That's the best one yet!

It's better to know in any case.

It can't be the chubby guy who follows me all day long.

One less suspect.

- Hello. - Morzini.

You again.

I'm interested in doing that interview.

- When and where? - Calm down.

You'll receive instructions.

From someone you know. You'll be surprised.

Keep quiet about it.

Shit, he hung up again!

Who'll give her instructions?

You will.

You've got a nerve!

Gentlemen?

I'll have a half of Beaujolais and some cold cuts.

Hold on a minute, this is a tearoom.

You drink lemon tea or lime-flower and mint.

We do chocolate sundaes too.

I'll have what he has. I need to use the phone.

Well, sir?

Two chocolate sundaes, with whipped cream.

Miss Prossant

We leave for one minute and they're after me!

Miss Prossant?

Don't disturb me during my tea-break.

- Roger Morzini asked me to call. - Where are you?

In the next booth. Join me.

- I don't believe it. - It's true.

I'd have expected anyone but you.

Don't faint, sweetheart.

Roger will do it tomorrow.

Where?

Not that easy. Got people around you?

a whole swarm of cops.

So listen carefully.

Of course.

- are you ok? - This is revolting.

Forgive me.

- It won't stain. - It will.

It's nothing at all.

- Don't start again. - Sorry.

- It's nerves. - In my face now!

You can keep it.

Miss Prossant is going out to dinner. She's taking her car.

Follow her.

a romantic date...

Zoom in!

- It's Michel Clément. - Shit!

The Prossant girl...

What does she see in him?

Remember it all?

You bet. This is terribly exciting for me.

- I'll pick you up in an hour. - Ok, you're such a dear.

- They're washing the car. - It didn't really need it.

- Go on. - You're sure?

Yes. You have one hour.

- all right. - Break a leg.

I won't say anything.

Who are you?

Cautious. Only natural.

I'm a very lucky girl.

Plenty of colleagues would do anything to meet your boss.

You're foreign?

They're leaving.

Follow them.

The game is on...

Talk about close protection...

This is all bullshit.

You don't care.

Happy to be a cop, stupid?

a reporter! What a bitch!

You're so cute...

The poor girl.

X- rated surveillance.

What is this?

I put this on?

I can't see a thing now!

It's so I can't see where you're taking me?

This is so exciting!

When I tell my editor, he'll die of envy, knowing him.

Here, I'll soon fix you.

I'll pump you up a bit.

You'll be as right as rain.

She's coming up for air.

Shit!

She's huge.

Bigger than she looks.

She's getting mad at him.

Shit!

S&M now...

What an animal...

We should head back. It's getting late.

Enough of this crap.

They're watching. act normal.

He's lasted 45 minutes.

I'm beat.

- They're off. - Let's follow.

Where are we?

It's still a surprise?

Not very chatty, are you?

It's Montmartre!

Come on.

Could you take my photo in the mask, please?

In here.

Stay here.

Don't move.

- Don't move! - all right.

Yes?

Vermillot? This is Roger Morzini speaking.

Morzini! Try to trace this!

Calm down, I won't talk long. I have Anne-Marie Prossant.

Impossible!

I'll put her on.

Quickly.

I'm with Morzini. Tell everyone, it's fantastic!

But the team...

a team of asses! I have her right here.

Her dad can start counting the money, in small bills.

- You're Morzini? - Yeah. Why?

You've changed.

My old looks were too popular.

- I'll tie you up. - No!

There, that's better.

He's washing it again.

Where the hell are they?

What is that?

What's going on?

- Do you see what I see? - Yes.

Shit, doesn't this ever stop?

Where is the thing?

This is Vermillot. Check on Miss Prossant.

Boss, Miss Prossant is right in front of us.

Check, stupid! Morzini says he has her.

Jesus Christ!

Clément!

- What? - Where is she?

No idea!

What's going on?

- You're crazy. What a jerk! - Where's Miss Prossant?

I'm waiting for her, ok. I haven't eaten the woman!

- Waiting for her? - She's not here.

- Calm down.. - I am calm!

You seem pretty annoyed.

I get the impression you're annoyed.

Spit it out!

Under article 417 of the penal code, I'm allowed...

You're allowed this!

That's not allowed either.

Do we make it worse?

Complicity in a kidnapping: 20 years says the penal code.

It wasn't me.

- You need help remembering. - Spud Masher!

- Yeah? - No, later.

- Who's that? - He leaves you like mashed spuds.

He'll burst your liver without leaving a mark.

Like a meat pie. Smooth on the outside, mush inside.

- an ace at internal bleeding. - Believe me,

we'd hate to have to go to such extremes.

I would too, commissioner.

a pal of mine passed himself off as Morzini for a joke.

Come, come...

Talk, Clément.

Your dad was a hero. We'll take that into account.

- Yes. - So, Morzini

and Miss Prossant, where are they?

I don't know...

I don't know...

Hello, daddy Prossant.

I'm in a spot you stand no chance of locating.

Sitting calmly opposite me, your daughter, Marie-anne.

Usually, she uses cameras to insult me.

But, right now, she's quiet. No more insults.

You called me impotent? a homosexual?

Fear not, I won't rape her. She's not my type.

Morzini doesn't rape, he charms.

Such talent. Take up acting.

In the lining, a transmitter. Range: one kilometer.

You can easily follow him at a distance.

He'll lead us to Morzini.

With Spud Masher, I can get him to talk.

Let him escape, but if you lose him...

- Not too upset? - I'm ok.

- We'll question you later. - Really?

We'll let Mr Clément get some rest.

He'll need it.

If Spud Masher interrogates him.

The door.

Company for you!

- Did they question you? - Yes.

- Was it Spud Masher? - No.

You weren't questioned then.

I'm scared.

- It's ok. - I'm scared.

Don't let him take me! Help!

Mom, help! I'm scared!

Let go of me! It's too much!

all right, now that Spud Masher has warmed up,

he can see to Clément.

It's horrible. Get away from here.

If you can.

The Marie-Anne Prossant case is becoming more complicated.

After the arrest

and escape of police trainee Michel Clément,

Roger Morzini or the man claiming to be Public Enemy number 1,

has sent us a video recording.

The quality is poor,

but we're broadcasting it as an exclusive.

Watch.

Listen, Dad, you want your rich heiress back fast.

You don't want her in bits,

an ear here, a finger there, right?

So listen carefully.

I want 10 million in small bills.

- I repeat, 10 million in small bills. - Let's negotiate.

Hey, Pops.

What?

Can you cut that off?

- Is something hanging out? - Interference.

- I'm causing that? - Come closer.

What the hell is it?

I know what it is.

- I know what it is. - What is it?

Careful what you say.

Michel?

- No, his father. - Jules?

Himself. I have to see you tomorrow.

Where?

The usual place.

- Jules is his father? - Yes.

- are you separated? - For 20 years.

He's gone into a building, 28, Boulevard du Cimetière.

- Control car? - Lockdown.

- Hey! - What is it?

What's going on?

It's too old-fashioned. Girls make fun of me.

I don't care. Give it here.

You want it? You can have it.

- The rest too? - Hand it over.

Thanks!

He's leaving the building.

He has a stroller and a hat. He looks like a bum.

- We underestimated him. - a bum is smart.

Right, but we're smart too.

We're onto you, pal. Drive.

My poor Jules, just think...

Your son suspected by the police!

Hunted!

You're lucky. Your worries are over.

- I'm here. - Yes, I know you're there.

- I'm here. - Jules, is that you?

No, Mom, it's Michel.

What are you doing?

- I'm playing dead. - Here?

Best place for it.

Is anyone following you?

Those bastards probably tailed you.

They're not too close.

Michel? Do you need anything?

Not much.

I'm starving and in my underwear, but I'm fine.

Don't worry, Mommy will fetch what you need.

His 27th bin...

and third bottle of red.

He's overdoing it.

Michel, your friends have got you a car.

Great.

They'll be at Pierrot's garage tonight.

I got the ham and sausage you like.

Nothing to drink?

Mommy thought of everything.

Here.

Your clothes are in the wreath.

No one will ever recognize you.

You said it.

Hi, girls.

Hurry, where's the car?

- Let's go. - Like that?

No, in disguise!

Hello, it's your wake-up call! You've won a year of washing powder!

Yes, ma'am, it's all yours.

Let's take her to the radio station.

It's a game, m'am, a dumb game.

Shut her in and hit the road.

You can live with one finger less.

Especially the little one.

No sense in struggling, it'll make it worse.

Further developments in the Prossant case

with an astounding communiqué from the French Press Agency.

The mother of Roger Morzini,

the gangster who kidnapped Marie-Anne Prossant,

has just been kidnapped in turn.

Her kidnappers demand the release of the press magnate's daughter.

Shit!

- You won't hurt my boy? - No.

Not a word to the cops.

They shoot first and say "Hands up" after.

I'm fond of my boy, see.

Even though he breaks my heart.

We're not dumb enough to go to the police.

I think I know where he is but I'm not totally sure.

Tell us anyway, we'll see.

- We're splitting. - I'm ready.

Spare me the crap.

I bet the cops took your mother.

They can't, it's illegal!

Morzini.

Why are you here?

Your mom sent me to give you a kiss.

You took my mom?

With some pals, to calm you down.

I'll make you an offer, Michel. I have an idea.

I have an offer for you. Just one.

Let Marie-anne go and that's all.

Let 10 million go? are you crazy?

- Listen, we'll split it 50-50. - No thanks.

Let her go or I come to get her.

I'll never let her go! Get it? Never!

We'll see.

Never!

- You still know how to drive it? - It's like riding a bike.

I don't believe it! Stop!

You're totally dumb. Stop or I'll shoot!

Think of your mom!

Leave my mom alone! I'll shoot!

No! Stop, I told you!

No, not my car!

The guy's a total moron!

He's sick!

For fuck's sake!

Get out of here!

Sure! Think of your mom.

No, goddammit!

Watch the stairs! They're all mine now!

After the stairs, the facade!

There you go.

Michel!

The window.

Michel, no!

Get off my back!

I'm coming!

The other window now.

This is dangerous. Watch the wall.

Look out below!

Michel, here on the left!

Shut the hell up!

I'm coming!

He's out of his mind!

How do I get down?

Too late for that now!

Michel, here on the left!

Come over here! He's totally lost his mind!

Come here!

He's totally nuts!

Here I come.

Watch out!

Stop!

Never mess with an idiot!

are you ok?

Well?

It's over now.

You can do everything!

I just did what I could.

Michel, you bastard!

Yeah, you're right!

I nearly lost my little finger.

Bad news for your ear.

Come back! I'll give you all the dough!

Don't worry about it.

Could you untie me?

I'll take you home.

I know a great restaurant with good Sancerre!

Could you park it? I have something to see to.

- Do you have any vacancies? - Yes, sir. For how long?

One hour. Well, two rather.

Yes?

- Mr Prossant? - Speaking.

I'm calling about the ransom.

It's all here, in small bills.

That's perfect.

I want to hear from my daughter.

Right away. He wants to hear from you.

Please, don't hurt her.

You're torturing her!

I'm watching over her.

Where do you want the exchange?

- Your place is simplest. - Here?

Yes, I thought it was the best idea.

See you later, Daddy.

Don't worry. I'll see to everything.

Bye, ducky.

Here!

How many sugars in your tea?

Subtitling: HIVENTY

a restoration carried out by Eclair/Groupe Ymagis on the image

and by L. E. Diapason on the sound