Original subtitles

- Please, sir. - Yes?

Is it the road to Nice?

Let me see...

Yeah, just go straight ahead.

Can I drop you off somewhere? Where are you going?

Nowhere, I'm just walking around.

I'll take you there. Hop in.

Come on, hop in.

Hey, you're on the wrong road. Nice was straight ahead.

I beg your pardon but where are you taking me?

Nowhere... That's where you wanted to go, isn't it?

So that's why we're here.

- Get off now. - What?

- I told you to get off. - Hey, we've got plenty of time.

No, I'm in a hurry.

You didn't seem to be in a hurry just now.

Maybe but now I am!

- What's the hell? - Are you getting off?

Cut it out. Where's the light? I want to see who you are.

You're crazy!

You should see a doctor.

That kind of joke could cost you a lot of trouble.

So long, Messalina.

What a bitch!

20... EV 06.

Come on, hurry up!

Hell! My client's escaping!

Is that a time to get up?!

Better late than never, Titin!

It's a shame, it's over 4 p.m. already!

And yet, that's not work that tires you out!

Come on Titin, don't talk about what you don't know!

You've got some nerve!

Anyway there's something I know: you owe me a fabulous bill!

- So how about paying it? - Thinking about it really kills me!

Don't joke, I've been waiting for over a month!

So what? Just wait! And me, do I complain about waiting?

- And what are you waiting for? - A money order.

Oh, just like the one from the last time!

- And where did this one go? - The casino.

- Hey Titin, it's your turn! - I'm coming!

The casino... the roulette, huh?

Can't you play petanque like everybody does?

Titin, do we have to wait until tomorrow?

Titin, your friends are getting impatient.

Let them wait. I'm coming!

I'll give you one more week then I'll go to the police.

- Yeah, that's the idea! - Don't you make a fool out of me on top of that!

Gentlemen.

- Do you have a smoke? - Shut up!

What can we do for you?

I'm from the departmental insurance company.

Yes?

One of our clients... He's an important political figure...

- You know what I mean? - Absolutely.

Someone hit his car while it was parked...

And forgot to leave a visiting card?

Luckily a witness could write the registration number of that car.

And you would like us to check that number?

Exactly. If possible.

What's the number of the car?

20 EV 06.

06, it's a local registration.

Call the prefecture.

Yeah.

- Thank you, gentlemen. - You're welcome.

- May I help you? - Miss Lecain, please.

- Do you have an appointment? - Yeah, sure.

Follow me.

- What brings you here? - A personal matter.

Isn't it about the job?

- What job? - The record shop, of course!

What are you looking at?

It's a beautiful car. Who owns it?

Miss Helene, why?

- Just asking. - You're kinda inquisitive.

Yeah... But it's my only fault.

Wait for me here.

- What's your name already? - Just say it's a friend.

Mademoiselle is waiting for you.

Follow me.

Straight ahead... Your cigarette.

- Sorry. Thanks Marie. - Marie?

But my name's Amelie.

Miss...

Sir...

- I'm sorry to disturb you... - Yes?

Let me introduce myself first: Pierre Menda.

I'm listening.

It's about a rather sensitive matter...

You own a car registered under number 20 EV 06, right?

Yes indeed, why?

Last night, I was knocked over by your Cadillac.

- Last night, are you sure? - Absolutely sure.

You must be mistaken. My car hasn't moved from here since three days ago.

The car parked in front of the main door?

Yes.

So I'm not mistaken but don't worry, I wasn't hurt.

I'm glad to hear that but once again, you're mistaken.

Impossible.

Let's suppose it... What can I do for you?

Absolutely nothing.

I just wanted to find the driver of the car

but I really don't think it's you.

Sorry if I bothered you.

Just a minute...

I'd like to straighten this out.

Sit down.

I really don't understand.

I first thought you made up everything.

To get into your place and squeeze some money out of you, is that it?

Yes. But I don't think so anymore.

I live here alone with my disabled sister.

We have a maid and a gardener

but none of them can drive.

And I never go out at night.

- Where do you keep your car key? - On the dashboard, of course!

Look no further. Someone is having rides...

My sister.

Hello. My name's Eva.

How do you do?

And you?

Menda... Pierre Menda.

Menda? But I know you!

- Come now, Eva! - Try to remember, Helene.

The TV show,

- "Poets and Men", it's you, right? - That's me, all right.

That's why your face looked familiar.

I love your show. Your voice is so captivating!

Please...

Helene, doesn't he have a voice... And his eyes...

Yes. He reads poetry particularly well.

- Please stop or I'm going to blush. - Why don't you sit down?

Well, it's late, I don't want to...

Oh no! We're glad to have you here!

We'll keep you for dinner, won't we, Helene?

I'd love to, honey, but Mr Menda might have other plans.

No. But I don't want to impose myself.

Please stay. Oh!...

Want a candy?

No, thanks.

Helene, bring us something to drink.

Right away, honey. Whiskey, Martini, Porto?

- Whiskey. - Sit down!

I'll have a Porto... It's very nice of you to stay.

By the way, what's this car business about?

- Did you hear us? - Yes, I was in the patio.

Unbelievable, isn't it? What do you think?

I don't understand it but it's fascinating!

- You really think so? - Yes, I love mysteries!

I could do without that kind of mysteries!

We'll have to do our own investigation.

Till then, I drink to the luck that made us meet.

To luck, then.

You seem sceptical.

I don't believe in luck much.

Helene, tell Amelie we have a guest for dinner.

Yes, I'll come back right away.

What do you think about Helene?

- She's beautiful. - Beautiful, indeed.

- And what do you think about me? - You're lovely.

You know, we don't have the same mother.

I'd never have guessed, you look so similar.

Yes. But we have totally different temperaments.

I figured that out already!

Yes, Helene is always a bit sad.

It's not fun to take care of a disabled person.

- She never got married? - She could get married and have children too.

But she chose to stay by my side to be my home nurse.

But I'm annoying you with my stories!

Tell me more about yourself.

I just stay in that damn wheelchair all day.

Poliomyelitis. When I was 16.

It came on my legs and I can't walk anymore.

- No physiotherapy? - No, it's hopeless.

But it doesn't stop me from being very cheerful!

- One should always look on the bright side, no? - Of course.

The important thing is to find sources of entertainment.

Guess what I found?

I don't know, you read, you embroider, you watch TV...

That's for the daytime, but at night?

I guess you're sleeping like everybody does.

I'm writing poetry.

Well!

Are you surprised? I do sleep too.

But when inspiration comes to me...

You get up, go to your window and write in the moonlight.

Exactly! Except that I can't walk.

- That's true, I beg your pardon. - I wrote my poems in my bed.

Is it possible to read them?

I never show them to anybody

but I'll make an exception for you.

- It's a great honour! - I've got a tape recorder and...

- And you'd like me to record your poems? - Yes.

- Would you do it? - If it can make you happy but...

I'm a bit rusty, you know?

- Don't be too humble! - You were here?

- Did you hear, Helene? How wonderful! - What, honey?

Pierre agreed to record my poems.

It's wonderful, indeed.

Mr Menda, you just won over my sister!

To your victory!

"I drew my dreams on a whirligig

And then threw the whirligig to the clouds

Beyond the great blue sky and the spreading clouds

And I stayed alone with the great blue sky

And I cried a lot

Fog, you tear your bridal veils on tall pale poplars

And leave the shreds of mirage upon the sky of memory

Oh la la! Of what wild escapades I dreamt

Spending my nights on amazing shores

I wept under the Pont de l'Alma

Pressing my cheek against the stone."

Eva, your poems are so beautiful.

- But so sad... - Did you like them?

Yes, you're very talented.

I'd have loved to read them on my show but...

- But? - My show got sacked and I got sacked along with it.

- Why? - It would take too long to explain.

For sordid reasons which have nothing to do with poetry.

What a shame.

- So what are you doing now? - Not much.

A bit of radio...

A friend promised me a job at Radio Monte-Carlo.

So that's why you came to the Riviera?

Yes, I had some money but I left it at the casino.

The casino! I would spend my days there!

Luckily I can't or I'd have pushed us to bankruptcy already, wouldn't I, Helene?

Yes...

I had a lovely evening but I can't miss the last bus...

Oh no! You can't leave like this!

Helene, bring the cards and let's play poker!

We never play between us two.

Me, I'm okay with it, but...

I just don't want to walk my way back.

Especially late at night, when you could have some bad encounters.

I'm beginning to get used to it, you know.

- Helene can drive you back in our car. - Honey, you know my eyes are bad

And I don't like driving at night.

- But you do it from time to time, no? - Eva!

Don't bother, I'll take the bus.

Please, stay! We have a guest room!

Don't insist, Eva! Mr Menda wants to go.

No, he doesn't. He's just shy.

- You really are shy, aren't you? - Like a young girl!

Amelie!

Mademoiselle?

Amelie, show Mr Pierre

to the guest room.

If you don't like it, I'll let you go.

- Very well, Mademoiselle. - She's terrible! A real tyrant!

How could I resist her?

You'll sleep very well here.

I hope so!

What do you think about him?

He's very nice. And you?

Me, I think he's...

- Well? - It's not what you think.

I'm not a romantic like you.

Why do you say that?

I know you well.

I kept an eye on you during the dinner. You eyed him greedily.

Can you speak about something else?

If you wish...

- You know what I'm thinking? - No.

Why don't we ask him to manage the shop?

- You're not serious? We hardly know him. - That's not a problem.

Not everyone can manage a business like this.

I trust Pierre.

He's exactly the man we need.

And I'm sure he would agree.

- I'd like to have a word on that with Mr Gibaud first. - No. With Pierre first.

There's no rush, let's think about it.

Watch out, he's coming.

The room is lovely, Amelie won over me and anyway I missed the last bus.

So what about this poker game?

I'm warning you that I'm tough!

We know how to defend ourselves.

- Well. - Helene, the cards!

We were speaking about you, Mr Menda.

Can I know what you were saying?

Tomorrow, if you behave yourself.

Bravo!

- Have you been here long? - No, I just got up.

- Please, don't stop because of me. - Sorry. It's over for today.

Too bad. It was a lovely show.

Stop that! Aren't you ashamed?

Ashamed? Why?

Did you have a good night?

Yes, I had a wonderful sleep.

- I'll go change and I'll be all yours. - Why? You're perfect like this.

I don't want Eva to see me dressed like this.

Do you understand?

I'm sorry. I didn't think about it.

That's why I do my workout so early.

She'd be sad if she could see me.

I understand. I bet it's not a fun situation to live with.

One gets used to any situation, you know?

By the way, did Amelie bring your breakfast?

No but don't bother her.

I'll ask her to serve it in the patio. I'll meet you there.

Hello! You're up already?

I was on my way to see you.

You could say hello.

- So, do you think she's attractive? - Excuse me?

Do you think Helene's attractive?

- What is it to you? - Answer me.

- She's beautiful, isn't she? - She's fine, indeed.

Is that all?

- Why all these questions? - For nothing.

- Take me to the patio. - At your command, Mademoiselle!

- Has Mademoiselle had her breakfast already? - No.

- I was watching you earlier. - I noticed that.

Helene seemed to enjoy your compliments.

You know it's bad to listen at the windows?

Come on, don't give me a lecture!

- Are you getting jealous? - Of you? Don't make me laugh!

I meant of your sister.

Jealous of Helene! It's ridiculous!

I feel more sorry for her than envious.

- Did I scare you? - Don't ever do that!

You know I hate this kind of jokes!

You're so nervous this morning!

Because you frightened me to death!

Calm down, my sweet.

I shouldn't have done it. I always forget how sensitive she is.

What a wonderful weather, it's like heaven!

Then come back to earth. I have to speak to you.

- Good morning, Amelie. - Good morning.

Leave it to me.

We have a job to offer you, don't we, Helene?

Yes.

- A job? - Yes. I'm hiring you.

As what? Your gardener?

Why not? You can't afford to pick and choose!

Eva!

That's true but that's not a reason.

How much can we offer him per month?

You'd better explain Mr Menda what it is about first.

Don't bother, Helene.

And you, listen to me carefully.

Despite all your money, I'm too expensive for you.

Please, she didn't mean to offend you.

Forget it, Helene. It's better that way.

- So long! - Pierre!

Let him go if he doesn't understand!

Pierre!

Why did you speak to him like this? He's not a servant!

He started the whole thing! He got on his high horse!

Not everyone is always at your disposal, like me!

- Yes, I know. You're a martyr! - That's beside the point!

You're going too far!

- I don't want to have an argument because of... - Because of him! Say it!

- It makes you sick that he's gone! - Shut up! You don't know what you're saying.

Do you think I didn't see you this morning? I can't walk but I'm not blind!

- What do you mean? - Nothing!

I'm so unhappy...

Come on, honey...

I'm sorry. I shouldn't have spoken to you like this.

It's also my fault.

Forgive me...

We have to get him back. Take the car...

and tell him I'm sorry.

Take it easy, I'm going.

Bring him back!

Yes!

Pierre...

She says she's sorry.

She's an ill-bred girl. She thinks she can get away with anything because...

- Pierre. - Yes, I know...

- But she should be taught a lesson! - I agree.

You'll do it when we are back.

- Do you really think I'm coming back? - I'm hoping for it.

- We need you. - As a nanny this time?

Don't be mean...

- The car's here. - The ghost car!

Oh please, not again!

- What do you want from me? - I'll explain it to you on the way.

Did you get the idea of offering me this job?

- No, Eva did. Why? - I would have preferred it if it were you.

Come on, get in.

Why are you looking at me like this?

For nothing.

We will of course have plenty of advertisement posters.

Pictures of all the greatest stars!

Now, pay attention! Here, we'll have a desk fit out for the records.

And here,

a small but great detail: "Now available"!

Over there, the listening machines

and up there we'll have a stand

to show all the label's catalogues, star pictures and so on...

Over there, the cash box

and in the windows

we'll arrange records hanging by the strings. The latest hits!

They're not here yet but it won't be long.

- You're used to arranging that kind of shop! - That's what I do!

- It must be exciting. - Yes. When the business is working!

- I hope ours will be successful. - We're doing everything for that!

If I understand well, you only deal with the launching? - Yes.

As soon as it opens, I'm going back to Paris to launch another business!

When can we open?

I don't know. In about ten days if it works well.

Excuse me, I have to get back to work!

What do you think?

I must say it's interesting.

Do you accept?

- I'm thirsty. What about a drink? - Certainly.

So, dear friends... But where are they?

Good bye!

Oh! How cute he is!

What can I get you?

- A squeezed lemon, please. - For me, a pastis. With some olives.

Right away, sir.

So cute!

We have an August weather.

That's true.

You don't realise it if you stay here for too long.

I'd like to have an old pad by the sea.

That's easy. My villa is at your disposal.

No, I said an old pad!

Sorry, I've got nothing cheesier to offer you!

Does that mean that if I accept, I'll have to live at your place?

It would be the best solution. You'll have all you need

and it would be convenient for our business matters.

Another idea of your sister's!

No, this time the idea is mine.

In that case...

Is that a yes?

It's a yes.

- Pick some of the better ones, Julien. - Yes, Mademoiselle.

Amelie will put them in Mr Pierre's bedroom.

- Quickly Julien, take me in! - Right away, Mademoiselle. Just...

- Leave it and take me in! - Very well, Mademoiselle.

- Where is she? - She can't be far.

I'm sure she saw us. So why pretending?

We can't say with her.

She's acting as if she doesn't care but I'm sure she's glad.

What a strange girl!

- Julien? - Mademoiselle?

- Is my sister in? - She's in her bedroom.

Thank you... By the way, Julien. Don't forget to wash the car tonight.

Very well, Mademoiselle.

I'll call Mr Gibaud, my lawyer.

I'm going to pay a visit to our enfant terrible.

Tell her the good news but don't be too harsh on her.

- What is it? - It's me.

What do you want?

Look, Eva. What do you want, really?

You seem upset to have me back.

- You know I'm not. - So what game are you playing?

I'm not playing... I'm in love with you.

In love with me?

Since when? You can't be serious!

Are you mad at me?

- You mean this morning? - Yes.

You know it's forgotten already.

Then kiss me.

- Not bad. - Are you angry?

Is that a problem that I love you?

- Don't mention that anymore. - As you wish...

Pierre! Eva! Lunch's ready!

I'm coming!

I'll wait for you downstairs.

Wipe your lips!

Unless you want Helene to be angry with me!

I could eat a horse. Couldn't you?

"- I've got no regrets. - You know what you deserve?

I do. But you won't do it.

- You don't have the guts. - You asked for it."

- That was soppy! - That was incredible.

It had to have a bad ending.

She doesn't know how to dress but she's a fine actress.

Perverted women like this don't exist!

- I'm sure they do! - Anyway, she kept her cards close to her chest!

What would you have done if you were that man, Pierre?

- I don't know... - Do you think he was right to kill her?

She made him do it for sure.

- That's true. But she really was unhappy. - Yes. I feel sorry for that kind of women.

You're right, they are sick.

Anyway it's only a play and I'm falling asleep.

- Why don't we go to bed? - Good idea, I'll take you to the lift.

- Are you coming, Helene? - In a minute.

What a lovely night.

Good night. Sweet dreams!

- I haven't had any dreams since ages. - You don't know what you're missing!

I've got other sources of happiness.

- Like poetry? - Exactly, like poetry.

Bye bye, sleep well!

How do you feel?

Like I'm going to have nightmares all night.

- Because of the play? - Yes.

You're too sensitive.

That's true, anything can disturb me.

Good night, Pierre.

Going to see your sister?

I help her to bed every night. In the mornings she's assisted by Amelie.

Don't forget our appointment at Mr Gibaud's office at 10.

Sure.

Good evening.

It's you, Pierre... You frightened me.

I thought you never went out at night.

What are you doing here?

And you?

I forgot my handbag in the car.

Here it is!

You're lying!

You take the car to go and pick up some guy at the beach!

- Are you insane? - I've got a good reason for that!

Especially when I realised that a woman like you

is nothing else than a whore!

- Why did you insult me? - Because...

I think I'd better tell you everything.

Let's have a seat.

"Calm down, my Sorrow,

we must move with care.

You called for evening; it descends, it's here.

The town is coffined in its atmosphere,

Bringing relief to some, to others care.

Listen, my Dearest, hear the sweet night march!"

"The sweet night march!"

And that's why you came here.

To find that girl.

Yes. I wanted to know what she looks like.

I thought she was some lunatic.

What would you have done if it was me?

I don't know. Helene...

Helene...

We have to go back inside. Eva's going to wonder what I'm doing.

Helene...

I'd like to tell you something.

Yes?

I've never been happier than tonight.

Oh, Pierre!

Pierre...

Good night.

What are we going to do?

I don't know.

Tomorrow, we'll try to explain it to her.

- Explain what? - That we're in love and there's nothing wrong about it.

- You must talk to her now. - No, tomorrow.

Tomorrow, it can be too late. You don't know her, she could do something stupid.

- I'm going. - No!

Let me do it.

Thank you.

Eva...

Eva, it's not what you think.

I love your sister.

- It can't be! - It's true. And I can't help it.

And you came to tell me that?

Yes, I... I'd like you to understand.

There's nothing to understand. It's all clear.

Are you going to get married?

I'll marry Helene only when I have a position.

You won't have to wait long.

Congratulations, it's a nice work!

Listen, I don't want to have an argument with you but if you want to be like this...

No! Please, stay...

Listen, Eva...

- I feel for you... - A strong friendship?

No! Not only friendship! Affection, tenderness...

- Pity, just say the word... - I swear it's not that.

I don't want to separate you from Helene. On the contrary...

You're forgetting what happened between us.

You know I've done nothing for it.

What if Helene finds out about it?

- Is that blackmailing? - You know what she would do?

- I guess so. - She'd kick you out!

If that's what you want...

Your sedative, honey.

You're right on time, Eva wants to speak to you.

- Yes? - Good night, I'll leave you two alone.

You wanted to tell me something?

Pierre explained me everything.

He also told me that...

Listen. It's late now.... Let's talk about it tomorrow.

- So? - She's in bed.

- What did you give her? A sleeping pill? - No, just a sedative.

I don't need one, I'm falling asleep.

How did she react?

Not very well. Good night.

Sleep well.

Eva... Eva!

- Helene!

- Mademoiselle just went out. - Thank you.

Hurry up or we are going to be late.

- Miss? - Hello, Lucien.

- Do I fill it up? - Yes and please check the tank.

Are you sure there was 20 litres?

Yes, I mean I think.

By the way, Helene...

Has everything been tried for Eva?

Everything.

She stayed in the Garches hospital for three months for no result.

Why are you asking me about that?

Just to be sure.

- There's nothing wrong with the tank. - Then I must be mistaken.

Put it on my account. Good bye, Lucien.

Well, dear friend, since you agree on everything, I'll have the contracts done

and bring them to the shop myself tomorrow morning.

You'll just have to sign.

- A cigar? - No, thanks.

I'm coming along...

Mathilde!

If anyone asks for me, I'll be at the shop.

I leave you two alone.

Aren't you coming with us?

No, I've some shopping to do. You're big boys, anyway!

- Do you need a lift? - No. Don't worry about me. Good bye, sir.

- Where do we meet? - Don't wait for me. I'll walk back.

Hello.

- Hello Helene, how is the shop going? - Well. I'm going to steal your clients.

- When are you opening? - In about 10 days.

- Have you found a manager? - A very fine guy, yes.

You should pay us a visit. Eva would be glad.

- How is she? - Always the same.

Say, have you got any new hits?

Wait... Yes! A great record!

"The Night's Embrace".

Listen to this.

Don't you think it's great?

It's funny, I feel like I heard it before.

I don't think so. It was just put on sale. Or maybe on radio.

- Beautiful, isn't it? - Yes, who is it?

- Helene is not with you? - She's doing some shopping.

- Are you doing a patience? - Yes. Do you know this one?

- You have to do a... - Missed!

Did everything go well with Mr Gibaud? He's very nice, isn't he?

Very.

I don't know what's wrong with me today, I'm totally dazed.

Probably because of the sedative Helene gave me yesterday.

She's been a bit heavy-handed.

My mind's foggy.

- I've got a small present for you. - A present?

Here.

That's my ribbon. Where did you find it?

- In the garage this morning. - I've been looking for it everywhere.

Probably Helene, she's always borrowing my stuff.

I wanted to ask you something, Eva. Have you tried to walk since your illness?

- Why do you ask? - I'd like us to try together.

- Together? - Yes.

I'll help you stand and you'll try to move your legs.

- Does it bother you? - If it can make you happy.

But we won't make it. That's not the first time, you know?

Let's have a try. Ready?

Put your arms around my neck.

- Can you feel the floor? - I can't feel anything.

Take off your arms.

- Make a step. - No, I can't!

- Just try! - I can't feel a thing, I tell you!

- Try harder for Christ's sake! - I can't!

My God! What are you doing?

- Here, sit down. - Come on, Pierre! What did I tell you?

Eva, where are you going? Eva!

Leave her alone. She's going to simmer down by herself. But what's the matter with you?

Just a stupid idea I've got. I've put it into my head that she could walk.

- But you know it's impossible. - I know.

But there's something I can't explain to myself.

What?

This morning, I went to Eva's room. She was asleep...

Don't you think it's weird?

The car... Julien probably forgot to wash it.

- As for the ribbon... - I gave it to you yesterday night.

And I put it on her bedside table.

The wind could have swept it away. Eva's always sleeping with the window open.

The wind! You mean a cyclone!

And that doesn't explain the sand!

I don't know. Eva's spending a lot of time in the garden

and there's plenty of sand in the alleys.

But she's sitting in her wheelchair and her feet don't touch the ground!

I don't understand... Unless...

Unless she can walk, that's all.

- That's not what I meant. - If Mademoiselle wants to have her lunch

it's past 1 p.m. already.

Right away, Amelie. I'll go get Eva.

- Mademoiselle, can I have a drop of rum, it's for the rum baba.

- Yes. The bottle's here. - Thank you.

- Say, Amelie, did you see Julien? - Maybe he's in the garden.

Are you really sure it's for the rum baba?

- Who do you think I am, Mr Pierre? - Rum baba!

- Hello, Julien. - Mr Pierre, I brought your suitcases upstairs.

- Thank you. - You're welcome.

Say, Julien... Did you clean the car yesterday?

Of course I did. I cleaned it twice!

I even changed the front tyre which had a puncture.

- Why? Something's wrong? - No, it's perfectly all right...

Did you pick the roses for my room?

Yes. Beautiful, aren't they?

Yes, beautiful.

Was it your idea?

No! I wouldn't dare to damage the rosebush like this!

Mademoiselle Eva asked me to pick them.

Thank you.

- Aren't you having lunch? - Sure, I'll just finish watering first.

- There's some rum baba. - I like plain rum better!

Helene...

- What's wrong? - Eva...

Is she sick?

- She vanished! - Vanished! Are you kidding me?

No. She's neither in the house nor in her room.

It's incredible.

How could she?

I don't understand.

I woke up and I wanted to check if Eva was fine...

She wasn't in her bed... The room was empty.

I wasn't mistaken: she can walk!

But it's impossible!

Just be logical. It's not a kidnapping for sure!

- She can't even stand up! - She can be just simulating!

It's ridiculous! Why would she be pretending?

I don't know. Maybe she has her reason.

- What reason? - I don't know.

No... Pierre, we must find her. I'm afraid...

Come.

Have a look over there.

Eva...

Eva... That's enough! Don't pretend to sleep!

- I know everything! - What's wrong?

- Are you awake? - Oh, it's you, Pierre?

I was dreaming that I've been taken out to the countryside...

You really think I'm an idiot!

- What? - I went in your room with Helene a moment ago. You weren't there!

What are you saying?

You're no more disabled than I am!

Did you have a nice ride?

Liar! Bloody liar!

I get the picture now! You want to get rid of me to stay alone with Helene!

Helene told me you weren't in your room. I was sleeping.

Helene? That's not true!

I swear it.

Pierre.

- What again? - Then it's her!

She's trying to make me look like a lunatic!

She must have drugged me. You saw I couldn't wake up.

And she dragged me outside! I felt like I was being dragged in my sleep...

Stop making up things! How Helene could have the strength?

I know what I'm saying. She must have used the lift.

How dare you accuse Helene of something like this?

You're vile!

Look, I know you can walk.

I also know you're the worst slut I ever met!

Eva...

Eva, if I'm wrong I would never forgive myself.

Come in.

So what do you think?

I've been living with Eva for years.

And today I realised that she hates me.

- Helene... - No. Forget it, Pierre.

She made up that story to get away with it.

She'll never forgive me for what happened between the two of us.

You see I was right: she can walk.

But since when? Why didn't she ever tell me?

- No. We must be missing something. - I'd like to know what.

- Maybe she can't help it. - I doubt that.

We should go to our doctor and tell him the whole story.

You're right. I'll go and see him tomorrow.

Helene...

Eva spoke about some drug...

Did you give her something yesterday?

- You mean her sedative? - Yes...

No, I didn't give her anything. She lied.

Considering the kind of illness she got and how bad it is,

it's very unlikely that she can walk.

Her treatment in Garches has been a failure.

However, the facts are here, doctor: she can walk.

- We might be dealing with an isolated case. - A case?

You know, polio - if it's really polio - is a very little known illness.

She could have felt an improvement.

Or did some physiotherapy without telling anyone.

Without telling anyone?

If polio is an unknown illness,

the human mind is even more difficult to understand.

Especially the mind of a young girl raised on a wheelchair.

- I'd like you to examine her anyway. - Just tell me when!

- As soon as possible. - If you want, I'll come this afternoon.

Perfect.

If I'm not there when you come, I'll call you later.

- Come now, don't worry too much. - Thank you, doctor.

Well, doctor?

Alas... Nothing new my child...

Maybe a slight improvement of the general condition.

- Do you feel better? - Yes, a lot better.

- Well. You take your sedative regularly? - Yes. Helene gives it to me every night.

Then it's perfect. See you soon, my child.

- Want a cup of tea, doctor? - No, thanks.

It's nice of you but I'm late already and I've got plenty of patients to see.

- I'll show you out. - Good bye, Eva.

Good bye, doctor. Thank you.

- Well, doctor? - I don't think she can walk.

- Yet... - Yet?

For legs paralysed for three years,

they have quite strong calves. That's rarely seen

in a poliomyelitis case.

What did I tell you?

Yes, but it doesn't prove a thing.

I'd like a specialist from Paris to see her. Do you agree, Helene?

Of course.

I'll write to professor Farnoux.

- He's a great chap. - Thank you.

Yes, but don't delude yourselves.

I think you're mistaken.

- It's impossible, doctor. - Did you see her walk?

But, listen...

No.

So?

Don't bother.

Pierre, I swear it's not my fault.

Of course.

- Is everything all right at the shop? - Everything's fine.

- Amelie. - Mademoiselle?

- Bring us some tea to the patio. - With biscuits?

Yes.

- And some cake. - And some cake.

Very well, Mademoiselle.

Well, sit down. Don't be afraid...

Are you reassured now that you've seen the doctor?

- Eva... - Yes?

Nothing...

You're right, Pierre. There's nothing to say.

I'm sorry about last night.

I'm not dead, am I?

You know what I was thinking?

Maybe you have a sleepwalking crisis during which you're able to walk.

- That's possible. - Me, a sleepwalker? That's the hell of a news!

Helene told you that, right?

- Not at all. - No, it's me.

Even if it was true, it wouldn't explain that deep sleep you couldn't drag me out of.

How do you know I couldn't wake you up if you were really sleeping?

Well, I...

Oh please, let's stop with all that. We'd better forget about all this.

I just hope you remember you made your sister very sad.

Yes...

Helene... I didn't mean what I said.

I know, honey. It doesn't matter.

Oh Helene... I beg you pardon.

Come on. Calm down.

- What's wrong again? - Nothing.

It was bound to happen. I always knew it would end in tears!

Say... Who bought that record?

- I did. - Yes, but for me.

- How many sugars? - Some cake?

Want some milk?

That's where I was born.

- In that house? - Yes. It's pretty...

Here's my father with Helene's mother.

- And here? - Me at 8.

- I remember it was during the summer holidays. - You were a lovely little girl.

- And you still are. - Yes, up to here.

- You see that woman? - Yes. Who is she?

My mother. She was beautiful, wasn't she?

- Very beautiful. - Here, honey, your sedative...

- Give it to me. - No! Leave it!

- Don't you want me to put it away? - No, I want to look at it a bit more.

Well, good night. Are you coming, Pierre?

- Are you sure you want me to lock you up? - I'll feel better that way.

- Don't you prefer me to sleep in your room? - No, it's perfectly safe like this.

I'll keep the key and open you up tomorrow.

- Good night. - Behave yourselves!

- Eva. - Yes?

- That's it, you're locked up from this side. - Thank you!

- I'll go and close the other door. - All this is a bit ridiculous.

Good night, Eva...

It's done, you can rest easy.

See you tomorrow.

What a story!

I don't think it's funny!

If it can make her happy...

- Thank you, Pierre. - What for?

For everything you're doing.

Maybe you wouldn't have those problems if I weren't here.

Why are you saying that? My life became so different since you came here.

- I wish I could be happy at last. - I'll do everything I can for that.

Oh, Pierre...

Don't go... I'm afraid...

What's wrong now?

Hold me tight...

Protect me...

What are you doing here?

I heard some noise in Eva's room.

I called her but she didn't answer...

I was afraid something might have happened.

As her door was closed I used the lift.

Why didn't you wake me up?

I didn't want to bother you.

I thought maybe it wasn't serious.

Everything looks fine to me.

Don't wake her up.

What's this?

See, Pierre? I wasn't mistaken. Eva was about to go out.

Don't you believe me?

I wish I could, Helene. But all this sounds fishy.

Listen, Pierre...

Beginning from tomorrow Eva's going to sleep in my room.

- Like this... - Like this no misunderstanding will occur, right?

Good night.

It's been 10 days and nothing's happened.

Since I have my bed in Helene's room.

If I knew, we'd have done it before.

See? Helene's bringing you luck.

It's true. The Devil himself would have no hold on her.

- You're joking... - No.

Only you could have sacrificed your life like that.

Please, Eva, don't mention it. It's perfectly normal.

What about a word of this afternoon's schedule?

I'm so glad to go with you!

- We mustn't be late! - We'll drink champagne and eat loads of cake!

Let's have a toast!

To our success!

To our success!

I'm sorry, Eva. I should have understood earlier.

I'll drive you home.

- One card. - Three cards.

- Check. - Fold.

- That's a pot. - Open to aces.

What a day! I'm dead.

- Was everything all right? - Absolutely.

By the way, I've made you an appointment with Andre and Gibaud for tomorrow morning.

They'll give you the keys for the shop.

- I open with 500. - Meet.

Hello?

Yes, it's me.

Oh, doctor! How are you since this afternoon?

Really?

It's wonderful.

The day after tomorrow? Thanks.

Of course, you'll come with him.

Perfect... Good bye and thanks again.

Honey, I've got good news for you.

Good news?

Farnoux, the specialist from Paris...

- Is he coming? - The day after tomorrow.

- He's interested in your case. - You could have told me about it!

We wanted to make a surprise for you, didn't we, Pierre?

You don't seem pleased.

- Sure I am but... - It's normal if you're nervous, honey.

- Mademoiselle, it's for you...

Come on, kids.

- How beautiful! - Who sent them?

It's from Mr Pierre Menda!

Pierre...

She vanished again.

How could she if she's sleeping in your room?

I was sleeping...

I can't stay awake all night long...

- Sure... And? - A bad feeling woke me up.

I turned on the light. Her bed was empty.

- Did you look for her? - Not yet. I just noticed it.

Her clothes?

Also vanished.

Let's have a look.

- Are you worried? - I've got a reason to be, no?

I'm afraid too... I feel like...

You feel like what?

Didn't you lock the door?

No, my bed is between hers and the door.

Of course...

How come you didn't hear her getting dressed?

I guess she dressed in the bathroom.

Is that her sedative?

I don't know.

How's that you don't know?!

The glass isn't empty so you gave her some, right?

Not at all. I didn't give her anything tonight.

- Where's the flask? - In the medicine cabinet, I suppose.

I don't see it, where is it?

I don't know.

Helene, you're hiding something from me.

- Pierre! - Where's the flask?

- But I'm telling you... - Listen to me!

If Eva has drunk the sedative, she'd be incapable to get down the stairs.

- What do you mean? - This...

Two weeks ago, when I came in Eva's room, you were dressing her up.

- You're out of your mind! - I get the picture now...

The ribbon, the record, the sand in the shoes...

- What are you saying? Please, Pierre... - Let me see your slippers!

- Why? - Just do as I say!

What's this if you weren't outside tonight?

I don't understand... I can't stand it anymore.

You really hate your sister, don't you?

You've been a prisoner of that damn wheelchair for years!

Let me tell you: you're the one who's disabled!

You're wrong, Pierre.

You try to make her believe that she's insane and that she goes out at night

when it's actually you!

Why would I do something like that?

Because you're the one I met on the first night and not Eva!

You don't know what you're saying anymore!

What a fool I was...

Pierre, I swear it's not me. I love you.

I've nothing to do with all that!

Where did you hide her this time?

But I'm telling you I don't know!

Very well. Let's go and look for her together.

No, go on your own, I can't take it anymore...

I can take it for two, come on!

No, leave me alone!

You make me sick!

Eva?

Eva?

Eva...

Eva?

Eva...

Where am I?

In your room.

I'll be back in a minute.

Pierre...

Pierre!

You're going to feel better.

- I did something wrong again? - No. That's not your fault.

- Where's Helene? Is she okay?

I'll explain everything to you later. Just stay calm.

I'll get you some coffee.

- Please come back quickly. I'm afraid to stay alone. - I'll be right back.

Helene, where were you?

Where were you, Helene? What's wrong with you?

Why are you looking at me like this?

Helene! You're insane!

Pierre! Pierre!

Pierre!

I lost everything because of you!

But don't delude yourself, he's not going to stay with you.

I don't understand. Where are you going? Why the suitcase?

Helene!

Pierre! Pierre!

It's all right.

It's terrible! Where did she go?

You had an argument? Because of me?

You must sleep now, it's late.

Poor Helene...

What's going to happen to her?

Don't worry...

She'll be just fine. Better than me, anyway...

Why? What are you going to do?

You're not going to leave me, are you?

I have to go.

It's not possible. Please don't leave me alone.

What am I going to do without you?

- You've got Amelie. - Amelie...

- What about the shop? - That's true, I forgot about it...

Well, I'll be your employee but I'll live at the hotel.

No way! You'll stay here.

- I need you so badly... - Please calm down, I'll do what you want.

Thank you, Pierre.

Try to rest now.

- Pierre... - Yes?

It's my birthday.

No?

Yes. I'm 20.

- It's wonderful! - Yes.

- We'll celebrate tonight. - Oh yes!

- I count on you. - Don't worry. The dress will be delivered in an hour.

- Mr Pierre! - Hello. Anything new since this morning?

No, it's okay. Just a phone call from Mr Gibaud.

- Marcel, come here for a minute. - Do you need me, Mr Pierre?

- What did he want? - He asked me to buy candies.

- Candies, why? - For Mademoiselle Helene!

Of course! I forgot! What a lucky dog!

- Julien. - Monsieur.

- Where are you going? - To the tobacconist's.

And Amelie?

Mademoiselle Eva sent her shopping. Why? Do you need a hand?

No, it's fine, thanks.

- Is Mademoiselle Eva in her room? - Yes, Mr Pierre.

Pierre?

It's wonderful, isn't it?

Pierre... I have to explain it to you. It's...

I was so happy and the dress's so beautiful that...

I wanted to see myself in the mirror...

I felt like a shock and... my legs just carried me!

Don't you believe me?

I can't anymore... I feel like I'm going to fall down.

Pierre, if I managed to do it once then I'll be able to do it again...

Step by step, with your help, I'll learn how to walk!

Now, tell me the truth!

The truth?

The first night in the car... It was you...

- But Pierre! - Answer me!

Pierre.

It really was you, wasn't it?

If it was me... Would you be mad?

Eva, how long have you been playing this game?

How long?

I was very ill when I was 17...

The doctor told my father he was afraid it could be polio.

He found symptoms...

I heard everything...

You were fine and you just simulated!

Yes!

How could you!?

It required courage of me. A lot of courage!

But if only you could know how well I feel in that wheelchair!

Of course... Life doesn't come to me,

but I can control it!

I wheel on it just like I wheel on that carpet!

Why?

Because of my father.

He liked Helene better.

He never forgave my mother for leaving him.

Helene always was more beautiful, sweeter, brighter!

I had enough of it.

I too wanted to be cared about.

And I succeeded perfectly!

Helene was supposed to get married.

I stopped that wedding.

Before he died, daddy had her swear she'd stay by my side to take care of me.

She stayed...

I had her life wasted!

Yes, Pierre!

That woman in the car, that was me!

I was so afraid you recognised me the first time you came.

When you told me you were in love with Helene,

it almost drove me crazy!

I did everything I could to part the two of you!

Helene's gone. She won't be back!

Now it's just the two of us!

I'll never let you go!

I love you! You hear me? I love you!

You can't leave me alone! No, you can't!

Oh, Pierre! I've only got two things left in my life.

And I want to keep them.

My childhood memories, here with my poems... And you!

Pierre.

Pierre. Pierre.

I love you! Don't leave me alone, I beg of you!

Pierre! Pierre!

Pierre, I can't get up!

I can't get up!

Pierre! My legs! My legs!

Pierre, I can't get up! My legs!

My legs!

Translation: Aquasantajoe. For Cinemageddon, October 2009.