Original subtitles

Michel! Be careful! You'll trip!

HÉLÈNE'S ARRIVAL

Don't let them come in.

- Pierre. - Helene.

A pleasure.

I'm disturbing.

Not at all.

What do you say to a little lemonade?

On, no no.

Out of the question.

First of all, you don't know me. What am I doing here?

I don't know.

Then, you should be asking me what I'm doing here.

Well, why don't you tell me?

I'm breaking in.

I'm hiding myself now.

I thought the house was empty.

But, it is.

They've all gone, other than myself.

I think...

You look great in this light. Don't move.

Shall I take your photo?

Just a sec. I'll grab my camera.

You're pretty like that.

Smile.

Lift your head.

Look towards the window.

Look at me.

Now, serious.

Even more.

Uncross your arms.

Lift one hand.

The other.

Don't move.

Beautiful.

Ariane - my wife.

Was it good?

What were you up to?

What was I up to?

I don't know.

That's good.

Continue. I'll go now.

Oh wait.

Too late.

- Mathieu. - This is Helene.

And this is...

Sabine.

The XX of her husband, Mathieu.

And Mathieu!

Who's arriving with Lena. The third woman of the house, with Sabine.

And me.

And Marc, a friend of Lena, a helpful one, who accompanied Sabine downtown.

Helene, did you get that all?

- Michele. - Helene.

Did you cry again?

Yes. I knocked over the pepper mill.

And do you feel better with Mathieu's hand?

I do.

With Mathieu's hand, it's much better.

And why are you smiling, Helene?

Let's put a little order in this.

And you?

Are you also someone very helpful?

I don't understand why you cry for a guy who leaves you.

And she hid herself to go cry again? Yes.

Why is she crying?

She hoped that her husband would join her.

Since he isn't coming, I'll stay with her.

And you? Did you have a nice day?

Of course.

Because you are here, too.

Helene!

She's too much.

She really knocked over the pepper this time, that bitch.

Helene.

Sabine is making a little scene of jealousy.

This afternoon I saw her near Mathieu.

Or was it you?

Me?

So Sabine's jealousy has no basis.

- No. - Thanks.

That's it. It's over.

I'm so dumb.

Thanks Helene.

Without you we'd have a terrible week.

It's a little horrible I know. But that's my age.

It was a gift from Sabine and Marc.

He pushed you around, didn't he?

Was he at least a good boy?

Oh yes.

Not really?

He was horrible!

Makes you think, doesn't it?

Well, I've thought about it.

A child, even a horrible one, is what I want.

Good evening. I'm the babysitter.

Where's the baby?

The baby isn't here.

Excuse me. I forgot to let you know ahead of time.

The baby isn't here?

Too bad. There's a piano though. We can make music.

No! You'll blow a fuse!

And you... Why are you here?

Quiet.

Helene will tell us tomorrow.

ARIANE'S DAY

I'm going to leave you.

I'm going to leave you.

I'm going to leave you.

I'm going to leave you.

If I go to the hardware store will you come with me?

Of course.

Let's go at 11.

Sure.

But isn't it closed on Wednesday?

It is.

If I don't ask, you don't tell.

I go to be with you. I don't mind if it's closed.

Does that bother you?

You bother me.

Aren't you going to tell me "No no! I don't bother you at all!"?

No.

Oh look. The postman.

And Helene.

The girl from yesterday.

You aren't surprised.

What was she looking for when you met her?

She was looking for someone.

Do you like her?

Do you want me to say no?

I'll go get the mail.

Put on your new shirt. And come down.

Your mailbox doesn't conform to regulations.

The postman doesn't want to leave mail inside.

It used to be regulatory. Now it's ruined.

Ads... catalogues.

Is there a Macy's catalogue?

Nope. Only appliances.

How did they know?

I wrote them.

Look mom. A letter from dad!

Thanks Sabine.

We'll end up seeing Claire again in this house.

Helene, please...

Can you say out loud: "I like you very much"?

I like you very much

Ariane.

Can you say: "I like you very much"?

I like you very much

Me too.

I like you very much Lena

Pierre. It's your turn.

It's your turn Mathieu.

I like you very much.

Pierre.

What's the drama?

Sometimes, Magdalena...

I don't like you very much.

Thanks.

I wanted to see what effect it would have.

Will you write it down?

A double switch for coming and going.

Then they will be three meters apart.

Is it good?

"I like you very much"

It's not bad.

It's not great.

Thanks honey. Don't say anything...

What she wants is to be loved. Because to be liked a lot is not enough.

And of that...

I think she's had enough.

What do you think?

I didn't understand a thing.

It's not smart.

No.

Lena...

...is married to Bertrand.

They love each other.

I see.

Bertrand is passionate about a woman.

He lives with her.

And made her a baby last year.

I seeeeeee.

Bertrand is supposed to join us here.

With the baby!

With the baby? Do you think?

I am...

I was the babysitter.

Right.

They're not coming.

He sent a letter.

Of love.

It's annoying.

Oh yes.

And what's your drama?

Mine?! None at all!

Nothing. Nothing at all.

Ariane, my wife, wonders if she still loves me.

If you weren't still in love, she wouldn't be asking.

True.

Does she cheat on you?

A bit.

When she's sad. Always with very good boys.

And how do you feel about that?

It makes me sad.

But you don't tell her.

That would be even sadder.

That's true.

And you?

No.

Never?!

Nothing?!

Not you?

Yes, you do...

Nothing.

Nevertheless.. with very good girls?

That would be very sad.

I haven't decided yet.

Are you bored together?

Bored?? Ariane and me?

Whatever will I do?

Let's set the table!

With Helene and Cecile we need nine settings.

Add the extension!

Look. There are more women than men.

There's no place near the master of the house. Because there's no master of the house.

Mathieu, Bertrand, Anna's husband who hasn't arrived and I bought this house 7 years ago.

We grew up in the area and wanted to come back.

Helene, Cecile have a seat.

One dish.

My name is Magdalena. But I prefer Lena.

I'm 49.

For my job, I dress men.

I have a shop.

Where I am doing some repairs.

That's how we met.

I'm Mark. 26 years old.

Architect!

Carpenter.

It's Bertrand, Lena's absent husband, who is the architect.

The architect is very busy elsewhere.

New woman. New baby.

Mark is my lover.

I'm a boy. My name is Michel. I'm 9 years old.

I'm in the third grade.

Lena is my mom. But everyone knows that already.

It's your turn, Mathieu.

I'm 47. I do bookkeeping.

I audit corporate accounts as a consultant.

Sometimes I even propose solutions.

Mathieu and I met five years ago.

In a company he was able to save.

I was in charge of the Board.

It was the only element that was working.

Very good.

I wanted to know how she did it. But she didn't want to tell.

So I married her.

I had hoped to find out more.

And so?

Certain things we can do. But we don't know how to talk about.

Mathieu committed a strategic error.

Thank god.

Because I was sincere and ready for anything.

I was in love.

And you are still...

Ariane, it's not your turn.

She can. I'm done.

Oh wait. My name is Sabine.

And I'd like to have a child before I'm 40.

Pierre and I will tell together since we've lived together for a very long time.

Why don't you tell? And if I don't agree, I'll stop you?

No, you tell.

No...

Okay. Ariane. How old?

43.

Pierre?

47.

The kids?

One.

Me too.

Big.

1 meter 90.

18 years old.

Oh, that's so old!

Okay. Parents profession?

Photographer.

Amateur.

Travel organizer.

Personal voyages. Outside of trodden paths.

But in group, of course.

It's a question of profitability.

It's going well?

No problem.

I met her on a trip. A terribly disorganized one. By English rose-breeders.

In May '68.

May is the season of roses.

We figured to organize a trip so poorly was something we could do too.

And we did.

That's not bad.

Not a babysitter. Pianist?

No, not a pianist.

Ethnologist.

I study the behavior of children brought up by middle-class West Europeans in the 90s.

Don't worry. Lots of other things interest me too.

I was born in Nogent-sur-Marne. My name is Cecile. And I'm 27.

And you?

My name is Helene. I'm 43.

I'm an engineer at...

Electrician?! No way!

Electronic engineer.

Are you sure?

Yes.

I'm single. I live in Paris.

I came down here to a hostel.

And I came to this house... For the second time.

The first time was at night. There was a party.

It was also my birthday. I was turning 16. That's why I remember.

I came... just randomly.

And I met the man of my life.

We spent the night together.

Well, not the whole night...

In a little alcove.

In the grotto.

Yes... it's called the grotto.

And???

I never saw him again.

I came to find him.

I came to look for him.

We'll help you.

What was his name?

We never told each other.

What was he like?

Blonde? Brown-haired?

And his eyes?

It was night. I'm myopic.

What do you know about him?

Everything.

And nothing at all.

So he was good?

He must have been really good!

It got better in retrospect.

Aren't you afraid of discovering that he is not like you imagined?

She'll never find him.

Why do you say that?

But Matthieu, what do you know?

We're gonna help her.

Maybe it's he who will recognize you.

Your hair. Same length? Same color?

Your style. Have you changed it?

Several times!

And I'm 25 years older.

Let's get started! Pass me the newspaper.

Where shall we start looking?

Where there's people!

There you go!

Flea market!

It's a good place to look for a man.

Helene. You search that way. Your job is to look for men.

I'll also look a bit.

If I see an interesting guy, I'll let you know.

I'd also like to help. But I don't know how to look for men.

Just like for women.

I'll look at postcards.

I'll tag along.

Dishes!

It's nice. It's 60.

I already have 12.

It's the one we have.

I've already seen the dishware of my grandparents' wedding.

My parents too.

But the dishes of my childhood sold as antiques is a bit much.

What is this guy doing?!

If we had broken it, we'd have bought it. But like this, nah.

It's solid and charming. But sadly, not everyone likes it.

When is that for?

Tomorrow morning.

I'm more of a morning person.

What would you like?

Cotton candy!

Let's go!

That's you.

That's you.

Helene!

Oh, don't exaggerate.

The most beautiful ones stand out the most.

Now we can browse in peace.

Mom is searching.

She never yells.

Like that?

That's atrocious.

A post office!

You prefer to be alone?

I would.

You stay with them.

I'll watch over them.

As always.

I'll find some.

As always.

Pierre, stop it with the puppy eyes just because she wants to walk around with you. It's exasperating.

Thanks for your advice. But if you told me that everything exasperates me, it'd be easier.

It's very comfortable, isn't it?

It's okay.

Let's not be so difficult.

It's fragile.

It's not young

Neither are we.

Go talk to Helene. She's waiting for you.

Good luck.

Do you think she's a good woman?

I think it's the end of the day. Solitude. Nostalgia.

Come on! Hurry up!

You mean "move your ass"?

Exactly.

Wer didn't find him. But we'll continue to look.

I'm going shopping.

Where?

The pharmacy.

Me too!

I'll go to the pharmacy.

I'm going alone. Tell me what you need.

Nothing. It's a pretext to walk around without telling.

The dance card is very pretty.

It's so romantic.

Does it interest you?

Not at all.

Whore.

Yes.

Why not?

He sent it to Silvia.

That slag!

Slag?

What's a slag?

A tart.

A show-off.

A girl who you don't like.

Me?

Us.

Vulgar. Ugly.

Nothing.

Hey!

A whore. A meanie.

Unintelligent. Very mean.

A stupid cunt.

You're funny. A "slag"...

Have you ever noticed how its always two women calling a third "slag"?

What a slag she is!

I like slags.

Slags are women who prioritize their pleasure over their reputation.

He read that in a book.

No. He doesn't like to read.

He does! Secretly.

He pretends to be an ignoramus.

The reputation and morality of a slag...

But what exactly is a slag?

A bimbo.

Oh a bimbo. Why didn't you just say that?

A bimbo.. who steals your man.. a slag!

A bimbo, who plays the "femme fatale" is a real slag.

What's a slag to you?

All women.

Except for me.

And my friends.

Anyhow, a slag is a little thing.

A less than nothing.

There's nothing lower.

Oh yes there is!

A haggy slag.

I see. A haggy slag.

I'm sure you boys know many.

I'm writing a card to Siliva, who isn't a slag.

OK. Not a slag, a wench.

Oh no. I'm the wench.

Bertrand's wife, when he speaks of me says: "your wench".

That slag!!!

No. That's not a slag, either.

When I was young a slag is a prostitute.

Not necessarily.

That would be a "big old slag".

A wench is one class lower than a slag.

And a slag is one class better.

Well... class.. haha!

Slags aren't bad. they just... wiggle their hips.

Oh. We're preventing you from closing.

It's okay.

I think yo've forgotten the bitches.

A bitch is an annoying slag.

Ugly.

Pedantic.

Speaks too loud.

Whereas the slag laughs too loud.

And ambiguously!

A wench has a rough laugh.

To summarize, slags have big asses. And wenches, big mouths.

And big asses, too.

It happens.

Let's go?

Home?

Yep.

Slag.

Hag.

Can't you get a normal car? With four doors?

We're only two people Two doors.

Two doors are perfect when it't two people.

Can you imagine one day, we would be three?

First of all...

Exactly.

Obviously.

I understand.

I'm going to take a bath before dinner.

I found a bracelet that looks like yours this afternoon.

It's mine. I lost it at the market.

Where did you find it?

I bought it.

Someone must have filched it.

Not very vigilant about the merchandise's origins

Thanks.

It's a sign.

You can't get rid of it.

Exactly.

Put it on me.

I'll get dressed and we'll go.

Be careful!

Matthieu, let us play.

Go play with Ariane.

I won!

Michel, if you secretly turn on the TV, the fuse jumps!

I'll go.

I turn it on. I don't turn it on.

I turn it on. I don't turn it on.

I turn it on.

Shit.

Pierre. Your wife's an exhibitionist.

I'm not an exhibitionist, Matthieu.

I just forgot you existed.

I'm so egotistical.

And cold.

And timid.

And tired.

I'm off to bed.

SABINE'S DAY

What are you doing to me?

It's already done.

But you didn't ask permission.

Because you know.

And Because you're doing it.

And you think that's okay?

I can't do it.

Look. My dress.

Can I borrow it?

Certainly.

But don't damage your hands.

Look, there's no mail.

What's that?

A relationship problem. Don't ask

But mom, I never ask. I'm used to it.

It annoys me that you don't ask me what's wrong when something's wrong.

That's not how you do it!

You have to push and then turn to open the child-proof bottle.

Do you want some tea?

Applesauce. I've tried them all. Professional interest. It's not bad.

I love what you're doing here.

It's pretty. Where's that from?

I bought them at the flea market.

Whatever for?

To look good when I do nothing.

Michele, where's my tea, darling?

It also matches with nothing.

So I'm wearing nothing.

But this.

How do I look?

Perfect.

Good morning. You scared me.

Where are you going? Me too.

You don't mind if I drive?

- Madame. - Mister.

Madame!

Mister.

Madame!! I'm a woman.

Oh. Good day, madame.

Good day, madame.

Are you together?

Yes madame.

How can I help?

A bed.

At the end.

I want a bed that's solid. Firm. Welcoming.

Stable.

A bed that doesn't let you down.

Certainly, madame.

Would you mind lying down?

Relax...

Isn't that better?

Try and find the best place for your lower back.

Exactly!

Let's take care of the shoulders.

And now, the bust.

Would you like to turn on your side?

The other?

How about on your stomach?

Do you like children?

Oh yes, madame!

Would you like some?

Several, madame.

But, with the same woman.

I already started.

That's wonderful.

I'll take it. Do you deliver?

Of course!

You'll return, I hope?

We have a lovely exercise department...

Sure.

Me too.

What's its problem?

Can I have my car back?

Slags!

Lena's car is the other one.

Sorry sir. We wanted a real auto. Not this car. What is it even?

A metal grey 205 GTI?

How horrible! It's a loser's car,

An idiot. A jackoff!

An asshole!

No, an assfucker!

That's not an insult. It could even be nice.

A little shitter?

A pisser. Sorry sir, we confused you.

You really don't like, Lena do you? Her car, I mean.

Oh I do. she's nice Lena. and she doesn't always have her car.

What are you jealous of?

Because Matthieu likes her. Too much.

I don't know.

You see? You don't know.

He says he loves her like a sister.

So???

So... she's not his sister.

Just because she's not his sister doesn't mean he should let her cry alone.

She cries too much.

And Ariane? How does he like her?

Ariane? He likes her likes he likes his brother's wife.

But Pierre is not his brother.

Are you fucking with me?

Let's get back. They're probably starting to worry.

I totally forgot: Where did you want to go?

Here.

So what did you do?

Nothing.

I bought a bed, and we chatted.

About what?

Everything... nothing..

You...

Shall we set the table?

I'm crying like a Madeleine.

I was cutting an onion.

Magdalene, tomorrow let's go to the pool.

We'll have red eyes.

We can both cry.

Sabine... I...

Please, dear... don't say a word more.

BLAHHHH

It's so obvious?

Yes. Are you brave?

You see? Kids are such a pain in the ass.

They are.

But say that I did it by accident.

What's with you?

I have to look at myself in the room. Anyhow it's my room. What are you doing...?

What's this?

I slapped him.

But he did it by accident.

Am I grotesque?

No Ariane. You're like you always are.

That's exactly the problem. I've changed.

I was walking down the street.

A decent looking guy, cute even, in a car...

Slows down... honks...

Smiles...

And leaves...

When I was 15, I used to dream of this.

When I was 20, it intimidated me.

At 30, it pissed me off.

At 40, it stopped bothering me.

And today... it frightened me.

So I wanted to check.

How he saw me.

Because he smiled at you?

What if it was mockery?

Mockery? Oh, who cares about mockery?

Let's go. I'm hungry. And I like onions.

I'm sure that Helene is here for Pierre.

When I came in, I couldn't see it all, but they were still together.

That's it!

You see? Pierre isn't for you. He's for Helene.

And Helene matches him equally well.

Keep me and Pierre close to your heart and look for the man of your life.

But, introduce us first!

I think Helene is great.

Me too.

Come eat.

Poor Lena.

The geraniums look a bit sad.

Don't make that face.

They'll come back to life.

Hey, you\'re laughing!

I just had to change my place.

The place is ugly. Everything else is ugly. And I agree with him.

Beautiful places. Beautiful things. Harmony. Refinement. Subtlety. I hate it all.

Just talking about it makes me want to puke.

What's nice is that when it's ugly, no one invites themselves.

Who would want to come into such a plain house?

And poorly heated.

With a TV that I can't even turn on.

What's that?

I slapped him.

How do you spell Lierre (Ivy)?

L-I-E-double R-E

Like Pierre. But with an L.

That's what I thought.

Last night I wasn't sure. I thought about it all night - One R or two Rs?

When I came I arrived by bus...

And to get tot he bu station I took a taxi driven by a woman...

Very sad... about 40... black glasses...

No dog... because usually there's a dog...

Just a letter.

Unfinished.

I took a peek, and read the last phrase:

I'm like ivy wrapped around you.

Interesting...

At the end of five minutes she says: Can I ask you something?

Sure. I was expecting some story

But no...

How do you spell "Lierre"?

L-I-E-double R-E

Are you sure?

Of course.

Okay, thanks.

And then I started to have a doubt - is it one R or two Rs?

You should have invited her!

To drink a coffee with you at the station.

I also have a story to tell.

About the food...

How many guests will there be tomorrow evening?

We're preparing a surprise for you Helene.

We're having a 25-years-later party.

One night.. a party...

You were 16, and I remember the date.

Two random nights, and you'll meet the man of your life.

Matthieu, you're annoying me. I'll have to slap you.

We'll be 50 people. And if everyone brings two friends, 150.

We invited 150 lovers, only for Helene! It took the whole morning.

What a great idea!

I don't know what to say.

Ariane will take care of the flowers. Lena will make Helene pretty.

And me, I'll play piano.

LAnd what will they eat?

Why don't you take care of it?

Matthieu, tell a story while I think...

I went to the pharmacy yesterday to buy sunglasses...

I should have gone with you... I could've helped you choose.

That's silly! I have very good sunglasses...

Let him tell his story!

To buy some sunglasses... and so???

The pharmacy is empty. The pharmacist in the back...

A kid comes in 14... maybe 15.. yeah...

I'm hidden behind the glasses rack.

Why hidden?

Because it's ridiculous try on sunglasses in public. Don't you agree?

I do.

The pharmacist..

What was she like?

Your normal pharmacist. Not bad looking.

Your age.

A bit younger, maybe.

The pharmacist -

Are you in a good mood today?

Normal...

So? The young man?

Good day young man, says the pharmacist.

Good day says the young man.

I'd like some c... do you have c... some c... c... condoms?

Yes.

That's it. The word is a bit long though.

You don't say "Can I get some rubbers"?

It's true that no one enters a pharmacy and says: "Gimme some rubbers".

We used to call them "English rubbers".

Why English?

No idea...

So, you would like some condoms is that it?

What size?

Is it for you?

Yes... no... I don't know...

You don't know??

N... n..no...

Finish your sentences. It'll go quicker. Why don't you show me?

The frightened eyes of the young boy.

The pharmacist: yeah, otherwise you'll get it wrong.

Imagine you're with a girl, or a guy, and it doesn't fit!

How confused and embarrassed you'd be if it's the wrong size!

Come on. Show me!

Why don't you come over here?

I can only see from the waist up.

Hurry up! I've got things to do!

She undoes his belt. "Take them down!"

She helps him...

It's like everyone. Like all the boys. You all have one.

Yours is a bit... You'll have to grow it a bit...

Because we don't have any baby-sized condoms.

Do you know how to do it?

You don't know?

I'll show you.

She reaches out.

And then disappears behind the counter.

Contact... it's very human... Don't you think?

I do. Don';t you too?

Ding!

"Bonjour madame." A client, an elder lady enters...

How old?

About your age.

Maybe a bit more.

God day madame Duvall. I'll be right with you.

"Okay, I have all I need. Get dressed" She takes a box and give it to him.

"It's your size. Actually, there's only one size"

How much is it? You can pay the next time.

"And you, Madame Duvall? What'll you have?"

She gives her the prescription. Come back at 7, 6:55. I have better things to do.

Oh, the beautiful prescription.

It's a strange story. The end is strange.

You're still hiding in the shop.

How did the pharmacist react when she saw you? - Nothing special.

I don't believe you.

I lean on the counter. I take a box of condoms and say: "I'll have the same thing."

I have an idea for tomorrow's meal. Shall we have coffee outdoors?

It's not too chilly?

Even inside, it's not that hot.

It'll be the first outdoor coffee of the year.

I'll take pictures.

Oh no... please... it's too early...

Oh, but why not? Just not me.

A photo pof the ambience.

"Ambience..."

Since it's not my day... it'll make a memory.

So tomorrow, what will we eat?

For buffets, in general, if you're not one of the first five...

Devastating.

Like people who haven't eaten in eight days.

They'll be nothing left.

By tomorrow, there'll be nothing left before we even start,

Because as the first arrivals, we'll have eaten everything already.

The first guests will be you, and then Cecile.

Everyone will think you've eaten everything. Do you mind?

Not at all.

I'm going to get a longer lens.

To make portraits.

That's not funny.

Just wait a few years. We'll have some great mugs. Nice and wrinkled.

The light is very soft...

Very seductive..

Sure sure...

Okay, I'm going...

Where will you get flowers from?

There should be plenty of flowers in the cemetery.

I'll make a deal with the dead.

Cecile and I worked this morning. - Me too!

Everybody else - go do the dishes!

I won't do it if Cecile doesn't.

But you know she likes using her hands.

I'm not doing the dishes. I already washed the kitchen.

Come on let's go wash the dishes.

Sure... but what's the rush?

It's prettier after the skin hardens, isn't it?

That I know how to do. Can I help you?

If you like. I'll do the right, you do the left.

I didn't dare ask. I thought you didn't like being photographed.

I thought so too.

One changes.

Hug me tighter.

You need a cuddle?

Come, let's smile for the photo.

Men seem to like that. Two women together.

The classic repressed male fantasy.

And you? Do you like it?

No... not at all.

What do you mean: not at all?

Have you ever tried?

No.

And him?

In his fantasy, for sure. And today, in photo.

Do you think we could try? Ask him.

Pierre there's the...

The what??

But how old are you two?

It's true that we've stayed very young.

Okay, that's enough!

Thanks.

There you go. We're done.

Why did you kiss me?

You looked sad and I couldn't resist.

You seduce sad women?

I think I do.

It's a very busy sector.

You need to be more selective.

Mark, can we take the car?

Can we go for a ride to teach me to drive?

Aks Lena for permission.

If a man makes a child with a woman does it mean he loves her?

Not necessarily.

And if he doesn't? Does it mean he doesn't love her?

Not necessarily.

We have to change lives. Or change our ideas about life.

If someone told me that the first kid I'd teach to drive would be another man's kid...

In a car I won't even be able to afford in several years

I'd be like "Nah, not me..."

Are you done talking?

Mama said we could.

Mark, can I tell you something?

You adults, you talk all the time, but you don't pay attention to each other.

I noticed that since I was very young.

Let's go.

Aren't you cold, Sabine?

I'll make a hot chocolate.

Did we already eat all the croissants Lena brought?

Can you reheat them?

Is Helene there?

Cecile!! It'll get cold!

Is it Nesquik? - No!

Then I'm not coming!

Can someone carry this for me?

Take care blondie!

Shut up, blackie! You're such a slowpoke!

Watch your tongue!

Me? Blackie?

My dad is Dutch. My mom, Japanese.

My grandfather's an Eskimo.

My other grandpa is Polish.

My father's mother is Spanish.

My mother's mother is a Muscovite. From Russia, of course.

My mother's father's father is Parisian.

And I can continue like that up until the seventh generation.

So now tell me: What makes you say that I'm a "blackie"?

I don't know... your skin color?

Transparent.

Your pale blue eyes...

And your mouth, so fine... as if you didn't have one.

Your hair, so smooth and straight...

Claire, Claire Claire...

What a relief, Pierrot. And here I thought you were calling me a "blackie".

You disappeared.

I went for a walk.

We were worried.

Good, it means I'm part of the family.

You don't have family?

I do. I have everything I need. Friends, lovers...

But...

The last time I was having sex in my room, I noticed that my curtains were old.

My society,. my clothing. My expenses...

And of course, that I wasn't paying attention.

And guy was?

He was very correct.

Not it was me who wasn't interested in anything but the curtains.

The first thing I noticed: I've changed lovers more often than curtains.

Secondly: I remember all of my curtains But not all my lovers.

I went back in time. Back to the curtains of my first studio.

Green macrame... Very fresh...

Then I orgasmed, because the other... well I wasn't going to take my time.

And I felt young again.

A very particular youth.

Ephemeral, I know.

And I came.

Can we turn on the lights?

Let me fix this lamp.

I'll fix the fuse and then go to bed. I'm beat.

Please...

Yes?

Never mind...

We could also go upstairs...

Now in the dark, secretly...

no...

No. Just to change my ideas...

All the excessive words, all the excessive feelings It's all so ridiculous.

And it starts with: "How I'd love to turn back time..." I wrote without realizing...

Ridiculous love letters...

End quote.

Do you remember that you wrote them to me?

I do. But what I don't remember is if they were truly ridiculous.

They were. Very.

It's better like that.

I'm going back to the hotel. I won't kiss you all.

But me, yes.

I'm also going up.

It's becoming an obsession?

Spying on the intimacy of couples...

Why were you crying when I first arrived?

Why were you crying?

Not because you saw Ariane and Matthieu fuck?

You don't love Matthieu.

But I do.

I love him very much.

Don't you?

Anger...

Nostalgia...

The nostalgia for brusque desire.

Violent...

I cried because I don't desire that with Mark.

And Bertrand doesn't want it with me.

Are you afraid?

Yes. Because it's starting to die. and I don't want it to.

I can drive you back to the hotel.

No... walk a bit with me.

Look...

It's good that I checked.

Those aren't mine.

You could have gotten into trouble.

Not tonight, dear.

You could be a father.

And I need another month to think about it.

Sabine...

Am I someone trustworthy?

No.

LENA'S DAY

We washed in a basin. It's the worst.

Something something in the bathroom and to wash yourself with a XX also

Either you say in bed with your eyes closed. Or come hold the screen.

I'm a poor young man, but good worker.

I'll hold the screen.

Mark, what did I ask you?

To stay in bed with my eyes closed Or to hold the screen.

But not to hold the screen with closed eyes.

You don't like it?

No.

I don't want it to displease you either.

Youth is wonderful.

And comfortable.

I barely need to kneel.

Oh no. I don't want to get started again. I have things to do.

Get dressed.

How do you close it?

With buttons. But there are barely any left.

You don't know how to sew?

I do. My mom taught me.

She likes independent men.

And so?

I would love for you to sew them on.

She sounds lovely, your mom.

I'd like to be like her.

It smells like coffee.

Have you seen how late it is?!

They didn't even call us for breakfast!

Slept well?

No.

Helene isn't gonna ditch us, is she?

No, Helene is loyal.

Today was market day.

Strawberries.

And where are Peirre and Matthieu?

Good morning, Helene.

You didn't meet anyone at the market?

At the market? No.

Strawberries!!! The first of the year. I want some.

You should leave some for tonight.

Take. Eat.

Tonight at the buffet: Tarte a la Strawberry remains.

Let's close the catalogue and go up to your room.

Okay.

No, you stay here. Play us a bit of music.

Nobody throws anything away in this house.

Whose is this?

It's ours.

Seriously?

That'll never work.

Nope.

Oh, show me that one!

I remember it!

It's pretty. But it'll look awful on me.

And this?

No.

I like pants.

This one is nice.

They're yours.

Nope. I gave them to you. Because of a bad memory.

Me too. A bad memory.

Really? Put it back.

How about this one? Try it on.

Oh no, not something with laces. It takes two hours to get dressed!

You have to think about it.

A bit complicated is good. But not too much.

Can I stay?

Anyhow, it's ugly!

That should work well.

Lena, when you go to work, you really get your face in the client's pants don't you?

I do.

And that doesn't do anything to them?

No I would usually notice.

So what are they thinking about?

If the pants fit.

And that never bothers you?

No. Almost never.

It makes me lose concentration.

I don't see anything. So I'm very careful.

I'll never wear this again.

That's too bad.

So? How is it?

It's good.

You look like a tomboy.

Let's get another opinion.

Mark, can you come please?

So?

It's nice. Very nice.

Is there something we can throw on top?

How about this?

With sophisticated makeup and messy hair.

For a grotto, a savage beauty is perfect, don't you think?

Is this too red?

Let me try it on?

There's a mirror in my room.

At the end of the hall.

She'll freeze.

She'll wear a warm jacket. And when she sees a man she likes...

Do exhibitionists ever come to your shop?

Yep.

Whatever they ask for, I smile. And I don't have their size, with a good excuse.

You don't have my size?

And they leave.

It's like a breakup for them.

What's Helene up to?

It's very pretty,

Yes.

Yes.

Lower your head.

Spread your arms.

And your legs.

That's veery pretty

Look at me,

Be quiet. You didn't see anything.

What do you mean I saw nothing? It's grotesque! It's grotesque!

And why?

Spread your arms. Spread your legs.

Why does he talk like that to her, but not to me?

Because he likes it with her, but not with you.

Yeah, I got that.

And how is it with you?

Me... it's...

Choose. Decide. Laziness.

Boredom?

Even his boredom is polite.

Who? Pierre?

You haven't told me who the man is

who asks Helene to spread her legs but not yours.

I guessed it's Pierre.

Yes. when he took her photo.

You were listening?

I overheard.

I was passing by. So I listened.

So I heard.

It wasn't exactly that, though.

And what did he ask of you?

He didn't ask me. I proposed.

You're jealous.

I am.

No. I'm not jealous, I'm annoyed.

I like to be jealous, but not annoyed. Now I'm annoyed because I'm not jealous.

- If I were jealous I'd - - But you are jealous.

No.

Yes.

Pierre fucks with photography. You fuck with piano music.

For a couple, it's a subject for conversation.

I find Pierre very attractive.

I didn't mean to steal him from you.

So? The dress?

Perfect!

The red is exciting.

What are you up to?

Go see Matthieu.

I'm going.

Leave the door open so we can listen.

Incredible...

I've had this camera for two years, and I've never read the manual.

I learned lots of things. Like, if I use it on

automatic, I still need to choose the shutter speed.

It's very... exciting.

I'm sure.

She was dressed differently at breakfast, right?

I know that dress...

It's Sylvie's dress.

It looks good on Helene. On Sylvie too.

- What did she want? - To know if the dress looked good.

- But she didn't ask. - Nope.

You know Matthieu, I'm terrible with women.

I know.

- Me too. - Indeed.

Leet's get moving.

And what should I wear?

Nothing.

Take.

It's beautiful.

Cashmere.

Real?

You bought this for me?

No. For Bertrand. But he's not here and you are.

Here you go.

A soft and real sweater I like a lot for a soft and real boy I like a lot.

Only a lot?

Yes, only a lot.

Oh dear...

Me and my feelings...

I have to reveal everything. I'm unhappy. And it fits me.

I've been...

No, I am... petty, cowardly, calculating.

I'm a shitty person.

Do you really think so?

All right... go on.

When I met Lena... I mean I knew her already...

When Lena seduced you...

I was very proud.

A beautiful woman of 40, classy, independent.

Who knows lots of people and things... Who stands up for herself...

In my arms...

You should be proud. There's nothing wrong with that.

But there is.

At the same time, I was telling myself "take advantage of it".

But that's normal. Lena also took advantage.

Because it's not dangerous.

I like her. She likes me.

But she can't really love me, because she's 20 years older.

And she...

She doesn't ask me to truly love her. Because she's intelligent.

She knows she's 20 years older.

What are you talking about? You're also very smart, Mark.

It won't last.

Keep at it. I let it get to my head.

Vain. Petty. Pathetic.

I was telling myself "Her fucking Bertrand"

He's okay. But he's not great. I'll make her forget her Bertrand.

What do you think of Bertrand?

He's not bad, isn't he Ariane?

Did you sleep with him?

Why did you ask that? Are you nuts?

She doesn't know that we don't steal our friends' husbands. She's new.

Why did you ask that? Are you nuts?

Bertrand's all right.

He's possible. Which is already not bad.

Not bad is just not bad. But not more.

Me either... I'm not bad.

What do you think?

Oh yes. You're not bad!

I look like an idiot, but because I am an idiot it's normal that I look like one.

I'm a good cuddler... I'm not lazy...

I like to please...

I'm not too clumsy...

Sometimes I get ideas.

And I think she liked all that.

Did she tell you?

No. But we know that. Everyone knows.

Lena... I love her...

And she doesn't love me.

So I'm going to leave.

But it's hard.

Also..

I like Michele, too.

And her Bertrand... I'm sure she doesn't love him anymore.

I'm also sure.

That's not what she says. She says she still loves him.

And you believe her?

But she's wrong.

But that doesn't change anything.

- You're young, Mark. - Very young.

I'm also young. Maybe I can help?

Be brave Mark. You're not so bad.

Really not bad.

Oh... you're crying...

But don't leave now. We need you for the party.

All right.

It's the sorrow of some which is the pleasure of others...

And we take advantage!

And when are we going to the cemetery?

Bonjour, Madame Buret!

We saw you from afar.

Can we accompany you?

Walking is good for my legs.

So, what's going on?

Well... not very much...

It's been four years already.

And you're here every week.

Did you love him... every day?

Oh yes!

And you never wanted...

- another man, you mean?

Of course I did!

So???

There's nothing wrong with taking pleasure. Once in a while...

and I'm sure he thought the same thing.

He was a handsome man...

Sid you ever talk about it?

We never did.

Helene... a friend who is visiting for a few days.

So.. what's new?

Mathieu doesn't want.

Thomas makes one when he shouldn't and yours doesn't make one when he should.

But maybe it's you who doesn't know how to do it.

Lena and Sabine have some love worries.

But there's love.

That's not bad.

And you Ariane? You have no worries?

I wonder...

And you?

Oh. I don't know yet.

And how's Michel?

Oh, he's great.

And your grandkids?

They're far.

Do you realize, in a few years, I could be a grandmother?

I also could have been one.

Tell us frankly. How would we be as grandmothers?

These are the inedible ones.

Salty ones, and sweet ones.

They'll be there all night.

What's inside?

It's a secret.

And these are the "already eaten".

Look.

No one can say it wasn't a great buffet.

That took you a while!

They were too nervous... I couldn't hold them back.

But I ate the prototypes!

Can I help?

Come with me.. blah blah with Ariane and I.

I know it's not my style... But I've always dreamed of it.

Are you going?

I can't... I don't know anyone.

Me either.

Mark!

Do you want to welcome the guests?

But I don't know anyone.

So?

Is that your husband?

Yep.

And you don't care?

I don't.

You have to go anyhow.

Yep.

Is that him?

No.

I'm late.

Not that late.. 3 minutes.. 3 hours...

Three days...

Excuse me, Bertrand.

No no, that's all right... I was stuck behind a cyclist.

- Today? - No, yesterday.

He blocked the country road...

A scandal! An idiot with an armband.

But a tough guy. Blocking the road.

One cyclist! Alone! Who couldn't manage!

Couldn't manage!

I thought he'd never get there.

I thought I'd get stuck my whole life.

I got afraid.

It took me 15 hours...

That's nice.

I came in secret.

I stole three days. Just for the both of us.

What did you tell them?

A seminar!

Architecture. And trains. Pascal will believe that.

And did you bring the Easter eggs?

They're in the trunk.

There's also a bell. And two hens.

Not two hens. A rabbit.

Well.. a baby rabbit.

But I have a lot of eggs.

You find that funny?

We can distribute the eggs for Michel. Wouldn't that be nice?

No. Because I won't be here.

Where will you be?

I'm leaving.

I just realized...

...that I was no longer waiting for you.

Bertrand just arrived.

I didn't feel a thing. It's wonderful!

I'm going back home.

Alone?

Yes. Alone.

I never would have made it without you.

I won't wait.

I know.

I'll come look for you here in 20 years.

I'll leave you Michel.

And Bertrand.

Be nice to him.

It's not a surprise! The fuse blew.

Mathieu, can I get some light?

"I love you. Mom"

Thanks.

I'll leave by the back.

Wait till I've gone to turn on the lights.

Good luck, Mathieu.

The conclusion.

Who is it?

It's Helene. Can I come in?

Why are you crying?

I wasn't crying.

I heard you.

I was telling myself a story. In that story, I cry.

Should I tell you a different story?

I'm too old now for stories.

Do you think you'll find him tonight?

I don't know.

Are you afraid?

Yes.

But you still know how to make love?

Sure...

Do you have a funny story?

Sure.

Do you know the story of the lion?

Which one?

The lion you know...

Who wants to know if he's still the king of the jungle...

Right! And he visits his kingdom.

Can you tell it to me?

So one morning, the lion goes out and he meets a rhinoceros.

No, a giraffe!

He lifts his head and says "Good day, Madame Giraffe."

"Tell me: Who's the King of the Jungle?"

You do the giraffe.

"You, of course, Mister Lion."

"Very good," says the lion.

And he continues his way.

And then he meets a rhinoceros.

You mean a hippopotamus.

He approaches the river and says:

"Good day, Mister Hippo"

"Tell me: Who's the King of the Jungle?"

"You, of course, Mister Lion."

"Very good," says the lion.

He continues his way.

And then he meets a...

veeeeery... Elephant?

"Good day, Mister elephant. Tell me: Who's the King of the Jungle?"

The elephant catches him with his trunk.

- Turns him around three times - More!

Ten times above his head!

He throws him down and tramples him.

The lion is knocked out for a while and when he comes to he gets up and says:

"Just because you don't know the answer doesn't

mean you need to put yourself in such a state."

And that's perfectly true. Just because I don't know

the answer, doesn't mean I need to get in a state.

Come back soon, anyways...

- What's that about? - Sorry!

Could you love Helene?

Love her? How?

Any way.

An hour. A day. Your entire life.

I would have to leave yours.

You would tell me.

When you want a man, you don't tell me.

You start a romance and then together...

Details of his skin, his mouth...

You think about his penis.

It depends. Me too. Depends on the woman.

I start to imagine where I'd like to touch her for the first time.

Often?

Always.

Does it hurt you?

Yes.

Even if you did nothing, it's like cheating.

I can't stop my fantaseis.

I'm also hurt because you didn't do it. Why?

Why didn't I cheat on you?

You cheated enough for us both.

Probably because I didn't want to end up like everyone - divorced.

Now, I'm leaving you.

And go meet our guests.

Do you live here?

Do you realize what a racket you're making?!

Tonight's were ideal working conditions; I'll have to wait for the next full moon...

And anyhow in two days, everything will have changed.

Everything will have changed.

Anyway, our friend Helene will meet her friend she hasn't seen in 25 years.

What do you do?

Photographer?

That doesn't interest you?

Sure it does.

And what do you photograph?

Animals at night.

We have no animals. Only us.

Are you fucking with me?

I need a glass of wine.

There's none left.

But I'll try.

We hid a bottle in the kitchen.

Did you leave already?

And you?

You snuck out?

It's not going very well.

No. Not very well.

I'll get my bag and leave. I'll call you tomorrow.

He's here.

Yes.

He doesn't want you.

No.

Maybe I know him?

Or maybe I don't.

Stay a bit longer.

I have some news.

I think the love of Helen's life is my husband.

Let's go for a walk.

What's up?

Nothing.

I'm tired.

Like this, it'll get to be too much.

When I was little I used to bathe in the cow's trough.

That's stupid. Then they won't drink from it anymore.

- They do. - They don't.

I told you that, so you wouldn't do it.

If I did it? they wouldn't.

Why don't you try? To find out?

A good idea!

So, did you drown your worries?

They're drinking!

They are.

They lied to you.

You want me.

I like that.

It's Helene.

It's funny.

Well... it's not.

She's going to wait for Mathieu in the grotto.

Matthieu is my husband.

I'll go back to the house and prepare my stuff.

Can I keep the sweater?

Bye.

I'll take the first bus at 7:20.

If you prefer, I can drive you.

That would be better.

Me too, I want you. And even if it's not perfect you could make me a child.

Sounds good to me.

Why are you smiling?

It's the radiant humor of women of color

which celebrates the little hardships

...of five o'clock...

And the troubled freshness of ancillary loves.

Who wrote that?

Me.

You write verse?

I wrote one.

A poem?

No. A Verse.

Why not more?

It's too hard.

That one was pretty good though.

And the exquisite softness - - freshness.

And the tender freshness...

Troubled!

And the tender troubled freshness...

And the troubled freshness...

Of lovers.

No. Of servants.

And the troubled freshness of ancillary loves.

Finally, I was able to slip it into a conversation.

And the troubled freshness of ancient loves.

Lena left me.

Me too.

Me too.

I'm leaving Matthieu.

And Helene?

Where's she?

She also left. But she's not married.

You should try with Helene.

It's beautiful that you stay alone although she waits for you.

But I'm not waiting for her. And I didn't ask for anything.

If I were you, I'd go.

Who is this Helene?

It's a woman who made love 25 years ago and who

thinks that's a good reason to fall for her.

Is she pretty?

Yes.

And courageous.

But not me.

She's very nice. She knows how to make love.

I know!

I know because I asked.

And Ariane?

Ariane!

Come back!

I thought you left!

I'll never let you go.

Good. Come get me.

You weren't sitting there.

Where was I?

I don't remember.

Me either.

I didn't remember it was me.

Sabine left.

She didn't leave because of me.

No. She wanted to help.

And now...

...what do we do?

I don't know.

We should just pretend we are little.

We were never little together.

Then let's do like the adults.

You okay?

- And you? - Yes.

You recognized me immediately?

The second I saw you.

Why didn't you say anything?

Because you also recognized me.

I wanted your recognition.

Do you know why I pretend I didn't know?

No.

Because you scared me.

I've never met someone so obstinate.

Have I changed?

No.

But now I think that could be a quality.