Original subtitles

THE NIGHT IS MY KINGDOM

Morning, Mrs Pinsard.

- Mr Loustaud. - Where's Raymond?

At Gustave's place, playing billiards.

Or dancing with Simone.

- Do I hear wedding bells? - Perhaps.

- Not dancing, Simone? - Later.

- With Raymond? - Who else?

Hey, Raymond!

- What? - How much longer?

One more round and I've won.

- You won't get this one. - You think?

You'll never beat me, sunshine.

- You've improved. - There's a turkey up for grabs.

You like turkey that much?

No, but I like to win.

- I want to dance, Dad. - What about the customers?

Raymond won't dance for long.

Go on, have fun.

Are you still playing?

This is the last shot.

They want me to miss it, but don't worry.

And bingo!

There's honour in defeat. Come on.

Another game?

I'm at Simone's service now.

I hate billiards.

It amuses me, and you were busy.

- Where's Pinsard? - Upstairs.

Thanks.

Seen enough of Jacqueline?

It's not Jacqueline, it's Loustaud.

- He's come to get me. - On a Sunday?

There are no Sundays for us.

- Raymond, it's time. - Let's go.

- Can't the train go without you? - It's my job.

- When'll you be back? - Tuesday.

Won't you say goodbye? Right.

- Bye, guys. - Bye, Raymond.

Goodbye.

Come back soon.

- Want to dance? - No.

Raymond! Raymond!

Stay back!

Pinsard! What's wrong?

"Raymond Pinsard, injured on the footplate of his locomotive

"in an accident that killed his colleague,

"bravely stopped the train, and despite his pain

"took the necessary measures to save many lives,

"a magnificent example of selflessness and sacrifice."

In the name of the President of the Republic,

and by virtue of the powers conferred on me,

I appoint you a Knight of the Legion of Honour.

To those words, I should like to add

my hopes for your complete recovery.

Thank you, sir.

Let me introduce you to Raymond Pinsard's mother.

My deepest sympathies, madam.

- His sister. - Madam.

His brother-in-law, a bank employee.

My congratulations.

Your coming here from the Ministry of Transport

has touched us very deeply.

I quite understand.

Ladies, gentlemen.

A well-earned medal

is quite something.

I'll swap it for your eyes.

- You'll get yours back. - Yes, but...

The women will flock to you with your medal.

Are you there, Mum?

- I'm closing your case. - Right.

Here's your cane.

Put this away for me until I can see it.

You're leaving hospital. That's a start.

Trust me.

Let me take your arm, it's easier.

Not saying goodbye?

I'll be back for the operation, doctor.

A year of patience.

A year? You said 8 months.

I said 8 to 12 months until we can attempt it.

You said it would work, so...

When the conditions are right. Keep your spirits up.

- Goodbye, Pinsard. - Thank you, doctor.

This is an honour for the family. My boss will have more respect.

I'll lend it you if you mess up your calculations.

The first months are hard and dangerous.

I advise you to make sure...

See you later, brave knight.

See you.

Pass me the case. See you tonight.

Why has Mum stayed with the doctor?

- I'm here. - What did he say?

That you'll need courage and patience.

I promised him that. He said he'd operate.

- Did he say that? - Of course.

Come on.

Lovely lady, would you like to dance?

I'm sorry.

I didn't know.

Are you coming?

Pinsard's in that taxi. He doesn't look happy.

- What did he say? - He didn't see me. He's blind.

What do you care?

It's strange

meeting a friend who doesn't recognize you.

Oh, you recognize me, you little mongrel.

What do you want to do now?

Go and rest in my room.

I want to go alone.

Here, take my cane.

I have to get used to moving around the house.

Oh, shit.

What's wrong?

It must be the radio I was building.

It's not done it any good. You walked into it.

Sorry, old son. I'm sorry.

Don't take it that way.

Every time you bang into something, it hurts us.

- You're too sensitive. - I like you, I feel...

Sorry for me? I know. You pity me.

I'd like to talk to you.

If you think it's any use.

Raymond, I want you to know

that we won't abandon you.

That's nice.

What I'm going to say is for your own good.

I know another blind person.

There are 25,000 in France, so...

But this one won't get better.

His case is more serious than yours.

Don't get angry, but he's always cheerful.

Some birds are deliberately blinded so that they sing all day long.

He's like that because he keeps himself occupied.

He makes brushes.

It's not about the money,

but if you could occupy yourself, distract yourself...

Do we need any brushes?

No, but you're getting bored hanging around.

- You've stopped shaving. - I'm in a bad way.

- Listen, Raymond. - It's OK, I get it.

The family, via its best orator, is asking me to make an effort.

I was speaking man to man. I understand.

I'll make you all very happy. Just you wait.

Watch me go.

Wouldn't you rather eat with us than here?

You think I should? OK, let's go.

The clock's working!

Yes, it keeps me company.

You're not deaf to sensible advice.

Deaf and blind, you mean.

- Careful! - Don't worry.

6 steps from the door, then 20 to the bottom.

I'll soon be the world champion.

Raymond's going to try and adapt.

- Is that true? - I promise, Mum.

- Will you go to the centre? - The centre?

Oh, yes, the hospital mentioned it.

They say you can have fun and make friends there.

I see what you want me to do:

learn a blind man's job with blind people

and joke about being blind.

It was Dr Vaugeois's idea.

So he's in on it too,

along with the postman and the baker's wife!

Make brushes, is it? Well, no!

In 10 months I'll be cured. I won't go to the centre.

- But you said... - I said no!

Promises obtained dishonestly don't count.

- I'm dishonest? - Or a complete idiot.

- Raymond. - He knows what I mean.

He wanted to be a pen pusher in a cushy job and he is one.

But can he drive a locomotive?

I go blind and he wants me to be cheerful.

Then he wants me in a home.

Do what you like.

I've had enough!

Julien!

You shouldn't get so angry.

I'm no use to anyone.

- Calm yourself. Sit down. - No, leave me alone.

Here's your coffee, son.

Put it down beside me, Mum.

- Here's the sugar. - Right.

I've an errand in Paris. I'll be 2 hours.

- Do you mind being alone? - No.

I can do it tomorrow if you'd rather.

No, I'm fine here.

Leave me alone, Mum, really!

- Nothing you need? - No, no.

Call Gangster.

- To keep you company? - Yes.

At least he doesn't talk.

Here, you mongrel.

He's smoked my tobacco again.

Why did we never repair this thing,

for God's sake?

- Who is it? - It's me, Simone.

Ah... Come in.

I saw your mother go out, I guessed you were alone.

I brought you some cigarettes.

Oh, thank you. That's kind.

I'd have shaved, but I get no visitors.

We haven't forgotten you. I didn't dare.

- Same for your friends. - Keeping their distance?

They don't know what to say.

They could say, "Hello, Raymond. How's it going?"

They think it's more complicated.

As you see, it isn't.

Sorry.

So, hello, Raymond. How's it going?

Slowly.

- A year of patience. - No.

10 months less a week. I'm counting the days.

- Like in the army. - Oh, worse.

Like in prison.

I'm fine. Thanks.

It's partly your fault, Raymond. You could escape.

I'd come and fetch you. We could walk.

The customers would distract you.

I don't want their curiosity or their pity.

Can I do nothing for you?

I want people to treat me as they did before.

Nothing's changed for me.

You say that, but you'd be walking out

with an old man.

But you're going to recover!

Yes, but in the meantime...

Here, look at me without my glasses.

- Don't I scare you? - No, you don't.

Really?

I can see you perfectly,

with your kiss curl on your forehead.

You don't need your eyes.

Yes, but you can see me.

It's easier for you to say than for me to accept.

Staying indoors puts ideas in your head.

You liked being in charge.

You're afraid you're not as strong as you were.

Won't you trust me?

OK, we'll go out, on one condition:

that we stay away from other people.

But why?

Because I can feel them staring at me.

Lighthouse Centre for the Rehabilitation of Blind People

And Dr Vaugeois sent you here?

Yes. He said my son would get depressed.

He was absolutely right.

Come in.

- Hello, sir. - Sister.

Mrs Pinsard, mother of the train driver who went blind.

I saw it in the papers. Hello, madam.

Sister Gabrielle devotes all her efforts to the centre.

Not to mention her bad moods.

Mrs Pinsard says that despite her care...

He's getting depressed,

and he won't hear of the centre.

- How did you know? - I'm used to it.

I convince the obstinate to submit despite themselves.

But my son refuses outright.

You're rubbing him up the wrong way,

treating him like a child.

"Give me your arm", "Sit down", "Shall I cut up your meat?"

It's annoying and belittling.

A blind man is just a man who can't see,

so treat him as a man.

I don't know what to do.

If he won't come willingly,

you need to find a ruse.

What did your son like before?

- He liked locomotives. - Forget those.

Nothing else? Did he have a pastime?

He quite liked girls.

We have some here.

He also liked the radio.

He was building a set himself.

Mrs Pinsard, do you know anything about radio?

A little.

Not enough to repair one, but to destroy one?

- I don't understand. - With pliers, a hammer.

Just enough so that it stops working.

That's not right.

They're coming to fix it this morning.

It was my only activity.

Not drinking your coffee?

I bet Julien's been poking about.

What a pain he is! Sorry.

That's the repair man.

Hello, Mrs Pinsard.

This is Mr Gaillard, the man who can help.

Take him to your son and leave them to it.

- Not coming in, Sister? - Later.

This is the specialist, Raymond.

Hello.

This is the radio. We bought it 7 years ago.

It's always worked well.

He knows more than you, Mum.

It was working fine last night and this morning, nothing.

- We can sort that out. - I'll be in the kitchen.

Let's open him up.

It may be the loudspeaker.

Vibration can be caused by a bad membrane.

I doubt it.

It's more likely the potentiometer.

You know your stuff.

A little, yes.

I've always liked tinkering with radios.

At 15, I built a set that worked really well.

- Really? - Yes.

Then 6 months ago,

I started building an 8-valve set with antifading,

volume control and tuning system.

- No kidding? - Yes.

And yet you need me to repair this one?

I'm wearing these glasses because of an accident.

Oh, sorry.

I don't understand.

Didn't they tell you I'm blind?

What do you mean?

For 9 years. Long enough to get used to it.

You're in on the plot to show me that blind people can get by.

No-one told me. Word of honour.

And you can repair my radio?

If you're worried, I won't touch it.

You wouldn't be the first.

But if you trust me, I'll have it working in no time.

So, shall I continue?

Yes, do.

Why didn't you tell him?

So that he'd seem more natural.

Raymond could have got mad.

It was worth the risk.

How do you do it?

You learn to see with your fingers.

Ten eyes, eight more than normal.

But... there's nothing wrong with your radio.

It's not getting any juice. The cable's broken.

It's nothing.

Strange, though.

- It's like someone pulled it out. - How do you mean?

Probably trying to move it.

Hold on... There you go, it's fixed.

Where's the socket?

Behind you. Wait, I know where it is.

- Shall I plug it in? - Yes.

That's done the trick. Like a drink?

I won't say no.

- Where are you going? - He'll break my glasses.

So? It brings good luck.

Where did you learn to do that?

- At the centre. - Really?

Come to the table.

Here's a glass and the bottle. Help yourself.

Are many of them cheerful like you?

It's like anywhere. Some are friends,

some moaners or hypocrites. Misfortune works no miracles.

That's true...

Why don't you bring your set to the centre?

I'll help you at first, then you can finish it alone.

How much do I owe you?

Nothing.

Not at all, I'll pay you. Mum!

Normally it's 300 francs including travel.

- Do you make a good living? - Luckily,

with three kids and a fourth by Christmas.

- You called? - Pay the man. 300 francs.

Will they accept me with my radio, without teaching me all their stuff?

At the centre, you do as you want.

- Are you there, Jacqueline? - Hello, Henri.

It reminds me of your first day at school.

I feel the same.

The footsteps, the smells... But I didn't dare say.

Since your accident, you're like a little boy again.

Don't get used to it. In 10 months, you'll lose me.

You've work to do at home. You could go.

As you like, Raymond.

- You'll come and get me? - Just like before, son.

- Bye. - See you later.

Rules are rules, that's all.

Here are Andre's details.

Your writing's getting worse, dear.

- My pen's no good. - Then buy some new ones.

Er... Andre what?

- Landry. - Landry.

- Blind from birth? - Yes, sir.

- Half board? - What are the fees?

It's all free: classes, meals...

The board of governors insists on it.

The bursar has to deal with it. But if you could make a donation...

I'll pay for his afternoon tea.

I'm sorry, madam. Donations are for everyone.

- It's house policy. - I'll speak to my husband.

Thank you in advance, from all of us.

Coming, Andre?

- Goodbye, sir. - Goodbye, madam.

- Sister Gabrielle? - Just a moment.

Please sit down. I'll be right with you.

You're incorrigible.

Tell parents their money will be shared,

and they won't pay at all.

- It's a wonderful rule. - I agree.

But not everyone is like you.

Parents only make an effort for their own kids.

You talk about solidarity, but I deal with figures.

Do you know how much a jar of mustard is?

Figures confuse me, and I don't eat mustard.

But your proteges do.

They take it and leave it on their plate.

And as they're sensitive, we can't say anything.

- No. My friends are unhappy. - There are too many of them.

- You bring us more every week. - It's my mission.

Then lead them to heaven. We are full.

We're not on the metro.

Your position here is a little unusual.

Yes, I'm not paid.

That's the advantage of having a mission.

Excuse me, Mr Pinsard is waiting.

He's new.

I drove a locomotive.

A big one, the latest model.

- Did you go fast? - 120 km an hour.

Can you imagine what it's like?

It's bigger than a cow. It's warm when it passes.

Would you like to drive a machine like that?

Yes, sir.

I see you've made friends.

Andre, I'll take you to your class now.

There. Come on.

Mr Pinsard, come with us. We'll go to the workshop after.

Right.

Careful of the stairs.

- Here, Babette. - Can I keep him, miss?

The animals are for learning, not for playing.

It's a turtledove.

If you're good, Santa will bring you one of your own.

Off you go.

The birds you're holding are entirely to scale.

You should recognize them by touch.

Ah, Paul. What are you holding?

- A bird. - It's a buzzard.

Give me your hand.

- Feel its hooked beak? - Yes.

Its wings are much shorter than its tail. Feel that?

Its feet have big claws called talons.

It eats small rodents and isn't very intelligent.

That's why it's an insult to call someone an old buzzard.

Nicole, here's the buzzard.

- It's a chick. - No, it's a bird.

Yes, I know. It's a chick.

Miss Louveau?

One second, Mr Pinsard.

Sit down, children.

Sorry to interrupt you, but I have a pupil to introduce.

His name is Andre.

- Hello, Andre. - Hello, miss.

He wants to catch up with his classes.

- How old are you, Andre? - Eight.

You're tall for your age.

Has someone been bad?

Marcel was fighting with his friend again.

- Will you be good? - Yes.

- You'll listen to me? - Yes.

That's good. Come on.

- Marcel, aren't you ashamed? - No.

- You'll have no tea. - I don't care.

- You like being in the corner? - No.

You can stay there till you calm down.

This is your place, Andre.

It's the fourth bench...

I know my classroom by heart.

You're next to Jacques. He'll help you.

- Won't you? - Yes, miss.

- Have you ever touched a parrot? - No.

It has a funny beak and colorful feathers.

Oh, yes.

Mr Pinsard, this is Miss Louveau.

- Hello, miss. - A future pupil?

Oh, no. I'm just visiting.

- Then enjoy your visit. - Thank you.

Marcel won't be denied his tea.

I realize that.

Marcel, are you sorry now?

You won't answer?

No sign of impatience. That's progress.

Come, Mr Pinsard. Your friend's waiting.

- Goodbye, sir. - Goodbye, miss.

And now exchange your birds.

Listen to that.

We train organists. Some of them are famous.

Is the teacher blind?

Miss Louveau? Naturally. It's why her pupils trust her.

As I can see a little, they take me for an outsider.

But with Louise, they feel safe.

One second.

There. Yesterday's work on its way to be sold.

Nothing to interest you. Baskets, chairs, brushes...

- No. Radios interest me. - I know.

- Sister! - Oh, one second.

Did you mention Guichard's case to the board?

Sorry about that. I'm all yours.

We also train carpenters and piano repairers.

- They do it as a hobby? - No.

They're much in demand.

They're very conscientious.

Any blind person can learn a trade,

provided someone brings them and fetches them.

- And where does Gaillard work? - Right here.

Can we come in?

Sister Gabrielle. I wondered if you'd come.

- I promised. - Oh, you're here too?

- Did you bring your radio? - Yes.

I'll make room in the cupboard.

Give it to me... No, wait.

Better you find your way alone.

From the door, 5 paces ahead,

then turn left, 3 paces,

and you're right in front of the cupboard.

- Want to try? - Yes.

Sister Gabrielle will guide you.

This way. Back up.

Remember, 5 paces forward and 3 to the left.

Straight ahead.

- Got it? - Just here, yes.

Open it.

- I've done it. - Right.

On the left you'll find a space for your radio.

Now the work bench and tools. Turn 180 degrees.

Walk 5 paces.

You're at the work bench.

You'll find the tools hanging up.

They're arranged from the biggest to the smallest.

Extend your right arm.

On the right, the pliers,

and on the left the screwdrivers and what-have-you.

You can find them with your eyes closed.

Your machine hurts, doctor.

Just be patient.

There. All over. Everything's normal.

It's like looking through fog. The glasses don't help.

You've always had weak eyesight.

- Why should it change now? - Because it bothers me.

I need stronger glasses.

I can't change them every 3 months.

You get used to them, and your eyes grow weaker.

I keep bumping into things.

- Doctor. - Yes?

Can't I have the operation now?

What operation?

My sister read me an article about a professor

who performs grafts...

In a few exceptional cases it's possible.

And I'm not one of those exceptional cases?

I know more about it than a journalist,

who uses sensationalist headlines to raise unrealistic hopes.

Please, doctor, in my case,

can't something be done?

- Be patient. - I see.

Hope, ask for a miracle.

Look, doctor, I cannot go blind.

You have to accept it.

I know all about preaching acceptance.

- But I still have my sight. - One third of it.

And I want to keep my one third.

Tell me, Sister Gabrielle, are you afraid?

It's not fear I feel but absolute terror.

- I thought you had more character. - I'm not a saint.

I'm just a worthless nun.

Once. Twice.

Three aces. Your go.

- What do I do? - Say a prayer.

Three thirty-one.

Five forty-one. Coffees are on you.

Miss Henriette, please.

- Two more coffees. - Coming up.

Double six.

Six, four.

Four, three.

So, are you going to move?

Yes. Wait. My knight to F4.

That's not a good idea.

Because I can take my rook,

move it to D1,

and say checkmate. There.

- Checkmate? - Yes.

What else are you going to do?

That's it. I'll never play chess again.

Ah, Sister, anger is a mortal sin.

Tonight you must say 3 Our Fathers and 3 Hail Marys.

Oh, shut up, you!

- Gaillard, let me get you back. - Of course.

Not interested in chess?

It's too complicated for my little brain.

I prefer belote.

King trump and belote.

Nine of diamonds.

Eight of spades.

Seven of clubs.

And the lady.

Eight of hearts.

He didn't say "rebelote".

It's obvious.

The National Assembly passed a law.

If you don't say "rebelote", it doesn't count.

Either way, you're in trouble.

You'll lose a fortune if it carries on.

Clearly, with a partner like that.

It's the way he plays.

You owe me 183 francs.

Coming right up.

The rules forbid playing for money.

But he won it.

Rules are rules.

Next time we'll play for beans.

Tell me, accounts man.

Should they use kidney beans or haricot beans?

Mr Pinsard was pulling your leg.

He's new so he's entitled.

If he left it'd be a defeat for us and I'd be blamed for it.

- Louise? - Here I am.

- The latest prizewinner. - Hand it over.

Thanks.

It's a record. Transcribed a month after publication.

Books are not meant to be removed from the library.

It came from the workshop.

- I'm fed up with repeating myself. - Sorry, Mr Moreau.

Ladies and gentlemen, please return to the workshop.

Ah. Rules are rules.

- Shall we go, Gaillard? - Hold on.

- I'll just crush Sister Gabrielle. - You think?

Check your queen with my bishop.

One minute will do.

Check your king with my queen.

Oh, I'm stupid!

Don't be so hard on yourself, Sister.

- Mr Pinsard? - Miss.

Have you ever wondered what Braille feels like?

I never did read much, especially Braille!

- It only takes a few months. - By then I'll be cured.

Checkmate.

- Pinsard? - Yes?

Excuse me.

Back to work.

Ah, there you are.

Louise, you were right to invite Pinsard to learn to read.

- To no avail. - You must insist.

- Can I trust you with a secret? - I think so.

Pinsard is certain he'll be cured soon.

He's wrong.

Dr Vaugeois was quite sure, but only I know that.

Raymond Pinsard is totally blind. For good.

- What do you think? - Not bad.

If you win the next one, keep an eye on your wife.

How would you take it?

Just go for it.

I think I'll play it off the cushion.

- Raymond, can you move? - Oh, sorry.

That's two.

This one's trickier.

- I got it wrong. - Never mind.

What d'you think of that?

- Won't you come and dance? - Me?

I'll lead you, it'll be fine.

Can you move back a bit?

I've bothered them long enough. Now it's your turn.

Don't be silly. It's a pleasure.

I'll look stupid.

No. Just let me lead you.

- That's nice of Simone. - Yes.

But she'd better wait till he's cured to marry him.

Don't stiffen. Let yourself go.

It's not that, but I...

I feel awkward.

- You want to stop? - I'd rather sit down.

- Don't you feel well? - Oh, yes, I'm fine.

You and your friends are kind.

It's just that I'm embarrassed here.

We all thought it was nice. It's all in your head.

Gaillard, Mrs Michaud's here to fetch her radio.

It's ready. Here.

- Don't forget the bill. - OK.

Oh, shit!

- Did you burn yourself? - No, it's nothing.

Nothing?

I bet you've blown the fuses.

I said I'd check the plug, but you're too impatient.

I'm sick of being an apprentice.

Don't let Moreau hear you say that. Radio's not really allowed.

Moreau, Moreau...

I'm impatient. I need to get on.

The old Pinsard's back.

You're making progress.

Think of your friends.

One accident and we'll all be on brushes.

It's fixed.

It's not dangerous, but be careful.

You're not angry, are you?

What do you think?

- That's the Braille lesson. - Did you sign up?

Yes. You weren't here, I was bored,

so I signed up. - You did right.

It'll make your fingers more supple.

I don't care about the Braille.

But I can sit on my bench

and ask Miss Louveau questions.

She takes hold of my fingers to explain and I love it!

- Neublet. - Trabouillet.

Thomas.

Pinsard.

Everyone open your books...

at page 7.

Paulette, read the first sentence.

The rest can follow her.

"In the courtyard

"of the farm,

"there are...

"turkeys."

Very good, Paulette. Your turn, Guibert.

"The sheep

"is in the...

"in the... in the..."

The meadow.

"In the meadow."

That's wrong. You're missing a sign.

"In the cowshed,

"with her little lamb

"who was born on... at...

At night.

Mr Pinsard,

we're here to work, not joke.

Your turn, Marie-Louise.

Break up the syllables and take your time.

"The horse shakes

"its head constantly

"to get rid

"of the flies."

Very good.

Take out your equipment

and write the following:

"The round moon is in the middle of the sky."

Miss?

Mr Pinsard?

Can I ask you a question?

Are you learning your alphabet?

Up to F, yes, but I get lost after that.

That's not very far.

- Maybe I'm doing it wrong. - Let's see.

Your book isn't even open.

Rest your fingers on the page.

The letter G, how many points does it have?

- Three. - No.

My hands are in the wrong place.

Touch gently with your fingertips.

Feel that? How many dots?

- Er... four. - Good.

And in what order are they?

That's harder to say.

In the first and second row, one, two, four and five,

that represents the letter G.

I can't help you if you don't apply yourself.

I am applying myself, really.

But I need someone to help me because...

For afterwards.

OK, let's try.

- You're going? - Trabouillet.

- Miss? - Would you mind helping Mr Pinsard?

With pleasure, miss.

Take my place.

- It won't work with him. - Why not?

It just won't.

He's a beginner.

You mustn't get angry. Count the dots.

I can feel three.

Definitely not. Your fingers are out of place.

- Don't touch me. - Then how can I teach you?

However you want, but don't touch me.

I'll never do it. Forget it.

Let me out.

What am I doing here?

In a few months I won't need it.

No-one's forcing you to come.

Please keep quiet or leave.

That's what I'm doing.

Children, back to your work.

"The round moon is in the middle of the sky."

Hello, madam.

Are you well?

- Hello, Noel. - Hello, Mum.

Put your gloves on, it's cold.

See you on Monday.

- Hello, Henri. - Hello, Claudette.

Hello, Andre.

- Aren't your kids here? - Saturday's bath day.

They won't be long.

Hello, Raymond.

Ah, Julien.

- Hello, sir. - Hello.

See you Monday.

Yes. Have a nice Sunday. Bye.

Hello, Dad.

Ah, there you are.

Touch my medal.

Really? That's good.

- Nice of you to come. - I was passing.

- It's cold out. - You're like my mother.

Francois's work is improving all the time.

- He struggles with sums. - He'll get there.

If he needs lessons, I'll give him some.

Hey. We just passed two women.

- Can you see them? - Of course.

- What's she like? - Which one?

The young one, obviously.

She's not pretty.

- Really? - She's fabulous!

I knew it.

Try and choose a nice one.

Navy blue. All right?

It should go with my suit.

Grey and blue always go together.

What cologne are you wearing?

- I don't smell good? - Too good.

Do you put that on to go to a concert with your friends?

For the family, yes, but...

Don't ask personal questions.

I'm taking you to the centre, right?

Officially yes, but man to man, I'm not going there.

I guessed as much.

Well, man to man, I'm not going to the football.

I'm going racing at Longchamp.

- Really? - Yes.

That's why you asked to drive me!

Having a blind man in the family can be useful.

- That's not nice. - Oh, I'm kidding.

I'm going to tell you something.

Something wonderful's happened. I'm happy.

No? Well, tell me, old son.

I'll explain another time, but I wanted to tell you.

Shut up, you mongrel!

- I'll get my jacket. - Right.

Tell me your history lesson.

Charlemagne was a great conker...

Conqueror.

And...

Emile, you're cheating. I can hear you turning the pages.

Go on.

And a great organizer...

That's all for now.

Put your books away.

- Miss Louveau? - Hello.

Goodbye!

Who's that?

A pupil who doesn't like Sunday lessons.

- He'll fall over. - He can see.

- I teach sighted pupils too. - You do?

Did you come alone?

My brother-in-law drove me. I came up alone.

- Take your coat off. - Thank you.

He's a friend.

Go and lie down.

- Is that Polka? - Yes.

Give me your cane. Thanks.

I know where everything goes.

It seems nice here.

How can you tell?

Poverty and messiness have a smell.

It smells nice here.

- It's the furniture wax. - No, it's you.

- Sit down. - Thank you.

I've prepared something much better than reading.

I'm open to anything.

This is France, in 89 pieces of wood.

They're the departments.

You have to put them in the right place.

- It's like a game of patience. - It's great fun.

Each department has a unique shape.

The forests, mountains and towns are raised.

You'll soon recognize them.

- You'll have to help me. - That's what I'm here for.

Right. To start with,

try and find me Seine-et-Marne,

Yonne and Cote-d'Or.

If you like.

That's where I drove my engine.

I know the hills and rivers.

I think this is Yonne. Yes, here.

It's funny.

Do you mind if I explain?

Do you feel the shape?

Yes.

That's the Paris-Dijon railway line.

I know it by heart.

There are poplar trees along the river.

Wait.

- Feel that lump? - Yes.

That's the county town.

- Auxerre? - Of course.

Where's Joigny?

- Wait... There. - That's where I had my accident.

- Did it hurt very much? - It taught me a lot.

When you can see, everything seems too easy.

You have...

work, friends, and... well, girls.

- I'm sorry. - It's normal.

I had a good life.

Loustaud and I were kings.

Loustaud was my fireman.

I wonder if it'll be the same when I'm working again.

Here.

That's Paris,

Cote-d'Or and Seine-et-Marne.

You already have Yonne.

Try to link Paris to Dijon. Go on.

Would you like some tea?

I don't usually,

but as you're making it, sure.

Do you make your own food, too?

Yes.

I live alone. I make my dinner every night.

I like my food.

Can I ask you a question?

Go ahead.

Why were you so patient with me in class?

I was pretty unpleasant.

- Rude, even. - It doesn't matter.

At the centre, I've met hundreds of blind people.

You were the least suited to losing his sight.

I'm also the only one who'll get it back.

You were struggling.

Refusing to accept it.

When struck by misfortune, some people become sheep.

Whereas you remained a man.

Have you joined up your departments?

I'm trying but I'm a little clumsy.

I'll close the game.

Mind your fingers.

Ah. Come for a cuddle, have you?

She wants a sugar lump.

It's gone cold.

- Shall I make some more? - No, thanks.

You talk about others but not about yourself.

My life's been uneventful.

I didn't have to resign myself.

I'm as at home in the dark as a fish is in water.

All the same, it can't be easy having pupils like me.

I'm passionate about one thing.

Blind people everywhere can learn to read using dots.

We're working on an international language for blind people.

Then Gaillard could read in Chinese.

Don't laugh. It will be possible one day.

I represent France in a congress.

Every year we get closer.

When misfortune brings only suffering,

it's detestable,

but if it leads to a solution to a problem,

it has meaning.

In accepting it, you can find peace,

even pride.

That's all very nice, but I'd rather be cured.

I've never been ill.

I'm different.

When I'm sad or tired,

I turn to my books.

They represent a world that's more real, and more beautiful.

- But they're just novels. - No. They're books of verse.

Everyone knows words contain music.

Did you know they contained light?

Listen to this Baudelaire poem.

It's called Landscape.

"It is sweet, through the mist

"To see the stars appear in the heavens

"The lamps in the windows

"The streams of smoke rise in the firmament

"And the moon spread out her pale enchantment

"I shall see the springtime’s, the summers, the autumns

"And when winter comes with its monotonous snow

"I shall close all the shutters

"And build my fairy palaces at night

"Then I shall dream of pale-blue horizons

"Gardens, fountains weeping into alabaster basins

"Of kisses, of birds singing morning and evening

"And of all that is most childlike in the idyll

"Riot, storming vainly at my window

"Will not make me raise my head from my desk

"For I shall be plunged in the voluptuousness

"Of evoking the Springtime with my will alone

"Of drawing forth a sun from my heart

"And making of my burning thoughts

"a warm atmosphere."

Am I disturbing you?

No. Why?

We were just chatting after the lesson.

- What time is it? - 7.20.

I hope you've had time to make some progress.

I didn't realize it was so late.

- Don't leave on my account. - My brother-in-law's waiting.

- I'll help you put... - Let me do it.

- I'm sorry, Miss Louveau. - This way, Mr Pinsard.

Your cane, Mr Pinsard. Here. This way.

I'm counting on your discretion.

We don't want any idle gossip.

- Good night. - Good night.

You'll think me ridiculous.

When I came in, I felt awkward.

Why?

You're paying too much attention to Pinsard.

He's a moaner who lowers the tone at the centre.

It's your business though.

- Anything for dinner? - No, I...

Right, we'll eat out.

If you wish.

Polka, come and say hello.

Come on. Be nice for once.

Charming as ever.

Are you sulking because your team lost?

The fresh air's tiring.

You left happier than you came home.

I heard the racing on the radio.

They all fancied Mayonnaise, but she was pipped at the post.

Luckily Julien doesn't gamble. The only vice he lacks.

Thanks.

What, I can't make a joke?

Raymond,

what are you thinking about?

Nothing.

Try to go out with Simone. She had tears in her eyes.

To hell with Simone.

You've not eaten anything, son.

Shall I cut up your meat?

No, no, no.

I don't want anyone interfering, even with my food.

But what's wrong?

Julien, have some more mayonnaise.

No!

What's wrong with them?

Who's moved my bread?

Here it is.

A perfect day, my new trousers!

- Can't you be more careful? - I'm blind, you idiot!

Fantastic. He calls me names as well.

Shut up! Can't you see I'm upset?

- My trousers are ruined. - For God's sake!

You're headed for a padded cell!

- Julien, please! - Is it my fault?

Give him some champagne to cheer him up!

It was me who bought

the crockery.

You pen pusher. You bastard!

Say that again and I'll...

Are you hurt?

Dog-training Centre

Take a firm hold of the harness. Go on.

Let yourself be led.

Don't stiffen. Put your trust in the dog.

It takes six months to train them.

A guide and a friend. It's wonderful for the blind.

- How much are they? - 80,000 francs and rising.

80,000 francs.

- What do you think? - Being blind's becoming a luxury.

Take the dogs in, we're doing a demonstration.

Take me to the car. Polka will be getting bored.

It sounds like a valve spring.

Anyone got a light?

Yes, me.

- Is that you, Gaillard? - Yes.

Where are you?

Over here.

- Where? - By the car.

Here. Want to go and join the others?

No, I'd rather have a smoke here.

Feels like a nice place.

Oh, I don't care. I can't tell.

Well, I can.

From the smell I'd say there were pine trees.

Here we are.

Thanks, Alain.

Dad, come and see the dogs.

They're great. You can stroke them.

In a minute.

Why not take him now?

OK.

Come on, you.

Polka, where are you taking me?

Hi, Polka.

Not saying hello to me?

You've been avoiding me since Sunday.

I'm not avoiding you or seeking you out.

- I thought we were friends. - Isn't Mr Moreau enough?

I should have told you.

It's made things awkward. Help me resolve it.

Awkward? It seems quite clear to me.

When I arrived at the centre,

Lionel Moreau let me know I wasn't ugly.

Certain words,

certain gestures have an effect on a girl.

More so when she's disabled.

He could see, he had a choice.

His wanting to share his life with me

was unhoped for...

He hasn't married you.

Because I turned him down. It didn't seem right.

Maybe you don't love him that much.

Love isn't about being grateful.

Anyway, it's your business.

I don't tell you about the tobacconist's daughter.

I should hope not!

You don't have to be chaste to teach Braille.

- You're horrible. - No, I'm sorry.

I didn't mean to upset you. And I lied to you.

The tobacconist's daughter was before.

When she came back and I was alone in a corner,

I couldn't bear to see her.

As I said, love isn't about being grateful.

Why are you telling me this?

I might ask myself the same question.

Have you seen Miss Louveau?

No, I haven't, but she can't be far away.

Can you round everyone up?

- Yes. As for Louise... - I'll find her.

Try blowing the horn. She'll come back.

You won't convince me.

A guy who denies mustard to blind people

isn't very generous.

He has been with me.

Sorry, but he's no genius.

When he meets a woman who's educated, charming, pretty...

How would you know?

I have my informers, and my instinct.

When he meets a nice woman,

he acts generous to take advantage of her.

Let's not talk about him.

In 47 days I'll go back to Vaugeois,

and a few weeks later I'll be cured.

They won't let me drive a train but they'll put me in the workshop.

I'll go to the centre, come into your class

with a bunch of roses, and I'll see you...

Quiet, someone's there.

Who is it?

No-one.

They must be calling us. Come on, Polka.

What are you doing?

Reading.

I can't hear you turning the pages.

I'm thinking about a book I just finished.

Interesting?

Yes.

It's about a man who sacrifices everything for a woman he loves.

Sounds good.

In the hope of winning her. But he loses all the same.

You've sewn a white button on your black pullover.

Colors and I never really got on.

When you and Pinsard were walking back,

the person on the side of the road was me.

- I guessed as much. - How?

Because anyone else would have answered.

I was so surprised.

So curious to know what we were saying.

That's true.

I could protest, find other reasons.

He was holding your arm. You were laughing.

I wanted to hit him.

- You're crazy. - I heard you both.

His recovery, his return to the centre.

Roses and future plans. How touching.

Where do I fit in?

All sick men fall in love with their nurse.

- I've known many. - They were real blind people.

Pinsard isn't like the others.

He'll get better.

- So I can't talk to a sighted man? - What do you think of him?

He's a very moving case.

When I warned you about him,

you called me selfish and ridiculous.

I'm just afraid of losing the woman I love.

That's your first kind word.

What do you see in him?

His plans, his strength,

his taste for life,

when I know he'll never recover.

Is that true?

Now can you see why I was so patient and friendly with him?

Why didn't you tell me sooner, Louise?

It's horrible for him, of course.

But I'm relieved.

I was scared of him.

Mainly of... his recovery.

I want to marry you now.

There's nothing to stop us, is there?

Bye, Raymond.

Bye. And thanks.

- What are you doing here? - Fetching my medical records.

You'll have a life of leisure now.

Oh, don't you worry.

I'll soon be fit enough for the workshop.

Between you and me, the sooner the better.

- Careful. - Thanks.

- See you. - Bye.

These little figures are pretty.

They were sculpted by blind people.

I know. They're cute.

You'll go broke buying all those.

I want to introduce you to someone.

Hello, Pinsard.

Hello, Sister.

Your little celebration's very popular.

- Do you remember Mum? - I'm sorry.

I don't see too well now. Hello, Mrs Pinsard.

- Where's Miss Louveau? - At the buffet with some pupils.

Paulette.

What's a Christmas tree like?

Andre will explain.

It's tall, tall, tall, like a tall person,

with little lights that burn your fingers.

Very good, Andre.

- Miss Louveau? - Mr Pinsard.

This is my mother.

I told her how patient you are with me.

Your son has made a lot of progress.

I wanted to thank you

and to give you this.

Thank you.

It's perfume. The one you like.

You can get New York, Moscow, London... The lot.

This was built by a blind person?

Word of honour.

The centre can be proud of this.

- Know about radios? - A little.

It's an amazing set.

Two frequencies,

feedback, variable selection,

the world at your fingertips. - How much is it?

Well, we're just exhibiting it, to show what we're capable of.

- We weren't planning to sell it. - I'll give you 50,000 francs.

50,000 francs?

I need to call the guy who built it.

Mr Ariel, are you there?

Call Pinsard to the radio stand, please.

Your attention, please.

Raymond Pinsard is wanted at the radio stand.

Raymond Pinsard is wanted

at the radio stand.

Here is Mr Pinsard.

- What's up? - Come on.

Sir, this is my friend Raymond Pinsard,

who built the radio.

- Hello. - Congratulations.

I'm very impressed with your tuning system.

Very clever.

Is it patented?

It's just a DIY job.

I'll give you 50,000 francs.

That's very generous of you but it's not for sale.

Raymond, do you realize?

50,000 francs!

- It's a present for someone. - Pity.

He's misunderstood.

Everything made at the centre can be sold for its benefit.

Sorry but it was my idea, my work.

I was here as a volunteer.

You made use of our courses, the canteen.

The rules provide for it, Mr Pinsard.

That's as may be, but the radio's mine.

Someone offers you 50,000 francs and you deprive us of it?

I'm sorry but it's not for sale.

Well, I won't insist. Well done again.

Gentlemen.

I won't say well done.

You don't give away your friends' money.

You're overdoing it.

The head of care services is here.

I'm coming.

Good day to you, sir.

Would you like to come over to the Christmas tree?

Should auld acquaintance

Be forgot

And never brought to mind?

Should auld acquaintance

Be forgot

And auld lang syne?

For auld lang syne, my dear

For auld lang syne

We'll take a cup of kindness yet

For auld lang syne

And surely you'll buy

Your pint cup

And surely I'll buy mine

And we'll take a cup

Of kindness yet

For auld lang syne

For auld lang syne, my dear

For auld lang syne

We'll take a cup of kindness yet

For auld lang syne

A Guide Dog for Every Blind Person

You can't give away your radio.

It must be sold for the center’s benefit.

I'm giving it to Miss Louveau.

I insist you change your mind.

I'm not allowed to give presents?

Not to Louise, and not of that value.

Its value is the work I put into it.

Even less so one with sentimental value.

I was trying to avoid a fuss.

- What are you saying? - And you?

Simply that I've decided to ignore you.

It's quite simple: for me, you don't exist.

When the things I care about are threatened...

There's no place for you in Miss Louveau's life.

- And you? - She needed a companion.

And the companion needed a blind person.

Don't be insolent.

You claim to protect her but you're using her.

If you weren't disabled I'd...

Punch me in the face?

Make the most of it. In 2 months I'll be punching yours.

After my operation, I'll be like you.

You think?

Wait till you're cured before righting any wrongs.

- What if the operation fails? - What?

Good night.

- What did you mean by that? - I'm no surgeon.

You didn't make that up. Someone told you.

You made me angry. I... I'm sorry.

For telling me the truth? That's it, isn't it?

You told me the truth.

Legion of Honour Certificate

"Raymond Pinsard,

"badly injured in an accident

"that killed his colleague,

"bravely stopped the train

"and despite his pain,

"took the necessary measures to save many lives,

"a magnificent example of selflessness and sacrifice."

Raymond! Raymond!

Stay back! Stay back!

There's no place for you in Miss Louveau's life.

Shut up, you mongrel!

Have you seen a man with a white cane?

Yes. He went that way.

Raymond!

Mr Pinsard left us and his friends are overcome.

Have you written to his parents?

To his mother, sir.

After a week, as the rules state,

to ask if her son was ill or if we could help.

Sir, I took the liberty of inviting his brother-in-law

to appear before the board.

- He's in the waiting room. - Excellent, Sister.

Mr Moreau, would you show him in?

None of his friends could explain it.

Come in, Mr Latour.

- Take a seat. - Thank you.

Sister. Miss.

We have great affection for your brother-in-law.

We'd like to know why he shunned the centre.

He returned from the party totally numb.

Couldn't get a word out of him.

At dawn he tried to throw himself under a train.

I only just managed to save him.

Was there a reason for his sudden despair?

Raymond was hoping an operation would cure him.

He now knows that is impossible.

Who told him?

We don't know.

Sir,

only two of us knew Mr Pinsard was blind for life.

Who told him without taking the necessary precautions?

I give you my word it wasn't me.

Who was the other person?

Me, sir.

Did you say anything imprudent?

No, I didn't tell him.

I give you my word.

Then who?

Mr Latour,

do you think we can convince Mr Pinsard

that more than ever his place is here?

He's taken against the centre.

He asked me to fetch his things.

So if you don't mind...

Mr Moreau will take you to the workshop.

We are truly sorry.

Sir. Sister. Miss.

No-one will doubt your word, Sister, or yours, Miss Louveau.

It's less important to solve the mystery

than to persuade Pinsard to return.

I don't agree, sir.

The center’s moral responsibility is in question.

Mr Latour implied that an incident happened here,

during the party. I even wrote it down.

One second. He said...

I'm sorry, I can't read it.

Is that you, Lionel?

Don't try to avoid me. I was waiting for you.

What are you going to do?

Write to the director with my resignation.

Thank you for not betraying me.

I wanted to give you a chance to make good

by taking that decision.

What I did was abominable.

I won't try to explain it to the board.

But Louise, can you accept I have an excuse?

No. It's worse than if you'd hit him.

You don't know how it happened.

All the plans you both had... He was so sure of himself,

so contemptuous.

I didn't want to hurt him.

Just to tell him his plans were without foundation.

Because you think only a sighted person

can share my life?

That's where we were making a big mistake, Lionel.

With you, I've never been on an equal footing.

Never. And Pinsard didn't separate us.

He just brought an inevitable separation closer.

What will become of you alone?

- I've always been alone. - Oh, Louise.

Louise, I thought you loved me.

I thought I was defending you against Pinsard.

Poor Lionel.

How blind you have been.

And pointlessly cruel.

Can you never forgive me?

Come on, Polka.

At least let me take you home.

Polka knows the way.

Polka.

Yes, yes.

- Mum! - Yes?

Oh, you're there.

Close the shutters, the sun's in my eyes.

Yes, yes. Calm down.

- Need anything else? - No, no.

Take Gangster. Off you go.

- Am I bothering you? - No, but I'd rather be alone.

Hello, Sister.

Oh, Mrs Pinsard. Is your son here?

Yes, but he won't see anyone.

I just want a quick word.

When he gets angry he can be vulgar.

He won't be the first to rebuff me.

Come and get me, my child.

It's Sister Gabrielle. She wants to speak to you.

How are you, Pinsard?

Raymond.

It doesn't matter. Bring me a chair.

Thank you, Mrs Pinsard.

Now leave us.

So, you won't say hello to me? You think that'll intimidate me?

You're acting very badly towards the centre

and your friends, who understand only

that there's an empty place in the workshop.

It's bothering them. What you're doing is rotten.

Mind your own business, Sister.

But it is my business.

- I say again... - Once is enough!

I've had enough of good advice.

I've had it up to here.

Your doctor lied to me, so did my mother.

All of you who can see.

The worst thing happens to me, and a nun tells me it's nothing?

Finally, the Pinsard I know is back!

Everybody was having me on.

And you hurt me into the bargain.

You don't know what it's like being blind.

If only you knew, Pinsard.

I know, you have one-third vision. It's a world away from nothing.

Pray you'll stay in your world, Sister.

I prayed a lot and I still went blind.

And I made a mistake, Pinsard.

Dr Vaugeois told me a secret, but I couldn't hold my tongue.

If you don't come back to the centre, neither will I.

Why should I care?

I've never known anyone as stubborn as you.

If you won't come back for me, come for another.

One who didn't dare come and who gave me a message for you:

"Losing your sight is a misfortune, but losing hope

"is the biggest crime against life."

Xavier.

Andre.

Pinsard.

Miss Louveau.

Mr Pinsard.

I'd like to work with Trabouillet.

- That's impossible. - Why?

He's on holiday.

- But I can take his place. - Really?

Let's see. Where did we get to?

Oh, I think we'll have to start all over again.

I think so too.

So, as you remember,

you place your fingers straight on the page like this.

Oh, flowers.

They're wild roses. They're from my garden.

Subtitles: ECLAIR