Original subtitles

This film was restored by PATHE in 2020

The 4K restoration of The Strange Monsieur Victor (1938)

Was done from the original nitrate negative.

As some parts were unusable,

various back-up elements were used:

a first-generation nitrate positive,

a nitrate screening print and a duplicate.

THE STRANGE MONSIEUR VICTOR

- Morning. - Morning, Andre. How's it going?

Good morning.

Madam Marie, read the paper?

- It's terrible. - Abominable!

Read all about it!

How about that.

Daring burglary in Toulon suburb

A chateau emptied out Gardener knocked out by thieves

Saint Eulalie's chapel ransacked

- Hello. - Hello, Madam Marie.

A small job for you.

There's never too much.

Maurice, leave my tools. Play with them when you grow up.

Children...

It's nothing much. Look, a brand-new sole.

Bastien!

Excuse me, Madam Marie.

You only have 100 francs?

What for?

To feed you, of course. I'll bring your change.

There's no more after.

You'll remind me soon enough.

Well then?

I was telling you the sole's coming away.

That's nothing. I'll add a few tacks in no time.

I'll pop to the store.

It'll be ready.

Give me a fair price.

Don't you worry.

- Goodbye. - Bye, Madam Marie.

What a waste of time.

The King of England hasn't ordered yet.

Do what you want.

That's all I ask.

You poor slave!

- Ladies. - Well, sir?

Nothing at all.

What a night.

Each time I thought it was over, it started again.

She was crying and twisting in pain.

God won't fool Agardanne again.

Cursing God the day an angel arrives.

It's a blessing, sir.

A real blessing!

God easily tricks you. Bandstand music,

moonlight on the sea, you get all soppy...

Then 9 months later, wham!

I understand now.

What do you need?

- A frame for my dear departed. - A frame...

No, that's a snail. A frame...

Here we are.

Here's a frame. He liked the sea and fishing?

It's a poetic frame, handmade, all with shells.

It might not be right. They killed him.

He must have loved shellfish.

Listen to the sound of the sea. And it glows in the dark.

What we call a psychological frame.

Psychological?

- Is it solid? - Solid?

Toulon will forget him before the frame rots.

And it's a bargain too. 14.95 francs.

Sold. Wrap it.

That's my child calling. It's about my child, I mean.

Yes, Mother.

You see?

I'll come right away.

Excuse me, ladies.

Léa, watch the store.

Madam Marie, your dear departed will look a picture.

See you later.

It's terrible...

Chin up, Mr. Victor.

It'll pass. It's good pain.

Spare me the good pain. It's terrible.

Have a good day, ladies.

Well?

The doctor's with her. Come here.

- Will it take long? - Who can say?

Sit down and don't be a nuisance.

Sit down with Madeleine in that state?

Fussing won't help her.

Don't you realize, Mother?

Children can weigh seven or eight pounds at birth.

Just think!

A four-pound leg of lamb is this big!

You weighed eleven pounds, Victor.

I who love you did that?

I was proud. You were a beautiful baby.

Try to see it's the best day of Madeleine's life.

I'd like to believe you, but eleven pounds!

Oh, Mother...

I sense disaster looming.

- Eleven pounds. Men are murderers! - The rubbish you talk.

Rubbish, is it?

Your doctor, with his beard and bag, doesn't know a thing!

I wanted the other one!

No, say nothing.

I can tell my wife is dead.

Mrs. Agardanne is well and her suffering's over.

I can tell it's a girl.

Congratulations, it's a fine boy.

A boy? Mother! Hear that, I have a son!

- Is he beautiful? - Nine pounds.

- Only? - Is she asleep?

She's resting. Listen, you can hear the baby.

Mother, listen.

He has our accent.

- Can we see him? - They'll bring him.

Goodbye, ma'am.

Congratulations, Mr. Agardanne.

What a beauty.

He's tiny.

My poor dear, you're suffering.

It's over now.

I suffered too.

Isn't he beautiful?

His grandfather's image, younger and without a beard.

My darling, I have to thank you for this joy you give me.

I wanted to say the same.

When you were in pain, I cursed the whole world.

Now I've seen him, I'd like another.

One in the Navy, one in Customs, one in trade.

And girls playing the piano and singing romantic songs!

Children!

You're tiring the poor dear.

Make yourself useful. No one's done lunch.

Get something from the market.

Mother, for pity's sake,

don't shake him like that, he's unique!

Why's he so special?

He's mine.

- They're a better fit. - But more expensive.

A good article

is a wise buy.

Is Mr. Agardanne here?

No, his lady wife's in labour.

The devil.

- Can I help? - No, it's personal.

- Will he be back? - Probably, but I can't say when.

Excuse us.

Don't mention it.

We'll wait here for him.

Wait for us at the café.

Is it your size, ma'am?

This is how you lace it.

Pretty model.

A pretty leg above all.

I'd work in a shoe shop.

She's upset.

Listen, one of us is thirsty.

We'll see which one.

All right. Heads.

I stay.

I'll drink to your love life.

Robert "The Cap" says farewell.

- Shall I wrap them? - No need.

That's 17 francs.

They're not a bargain.

No small change?

I've gone four times already.

I'll ask at the café.

This is a lucky encounter.

As a souvenir, pick what you want.

What if I need nothing?

It'd be a pity.

I'm Amédée. Like that name?

- I bet you're Marcelle. - Adrienne!

Adrienne? Even better.

Adriennes love pepper, green, mandolins and fox terriers like I do.

- When can I see you? - When you want.

- Where? - In my husband's shop.

Get Le Petit Var

Read about the burglary of the century!

I had to run to the photographer's. Here you go.

There was no rush. Palpitations can kill you.

- Kill me? - Ignore him.

See you soon.

Tell your boss Amédée was here and will be back in an hour.

All right, sir.

You can't go yet. You know what your husband will say.

What he'll say to you amuses me.

Excuse me.

I was serious on entering the store.

Who showed her legs and gave me ideas?

When you meet an attractive woman...

I have something to tell you.

As if we cared about your husbands.

Mind leaving her alone? Get inside.

Change neighbourhoods.

- A fellow can't take a walk? - Not on my turf.

I don't like your tone.

Do you like having your ears boxed?

No, and it never happens.

- Bastien... - I'll deal with you later!

I'll show this lout how a cobbler uses his shoes.

Pauline, there's a show on.

- A fight? - A massacre.

Your ugly mug will get even uglier if you come back.

Sure, and pigs might fly.

Pigs or anything you like.

I have better to do.

That's it?

I didn't know he'd back down.

What a spectacle.

- Not my fault. - You played along!

What did the gentleman want?

Nothing at all. Don't worry.

Here, play with this.

Stay here. And don't wander off.

Get Le Petit Var

Special edition.

- What are you up to? - Playing cards.

Cards?

Come to the store, I'll give you a toy.

Bastien!

I'll give your boy a toy at the store.

You're kind, Mr. Agardanne.

But he'll waste your time.

It's all right, I'm happy today. I have a son now too.

Really?

Between fathers...

My best to you and your lady.

I'll send him back soon. Come on.

Choose what you want.

Hard at work, I see.

Talking about gangsters.

What gangsters?

Yesterday's.

They burgled the chateau, attacked the gardener

and ransacked St Eulalie's.

No!

What's the world coming to?

They can't be locals.

People here are too lazy to do all that in one night.

Excuse me, the store's busy. Work comes first.

Come on, maggot.

Hello, ma'am.

Miss Claire, my son, Fernand Agardanne, presents his respects.

Lord, he's so tall!

But this isn't my son. You thought he was my son?

This is Bastien's boy. Mine's suckling.

What?

Suckling. Taking milk.

Is he handsome?

12.5 kilos, sorry, 12.5 pounds.

- And your lady? - 45 kilos.

We're very well.

We took our time to make him as good as can be.

My present...

Your present?

You've got your head screwed on. Come on.

What's that you're dragging along?

What on earth is it? Let me see.

They're smart at home.

I'll give you a grappling hook to play with.

Look, this can hurt.

I'll give it to your dad.

All right, come on.

Choose what you want.

That one.

- This one? - No.

- Which one then? - That one.

You want the big one? The lifeboat?

Mr. Agardanne...

I forgot to tell you three gentlemen came.

One was called Amédée.

Look, they're coming back.

So let them come.

You want this one?

You can have it, it's yours. Let's put a string on it.

A boat like this needs a string.

Here.

It has a string now.

Play with the French Navy.

Off you go.

Gentlemen...

- Mr. Agardanne. - Can I help you?

We have some samples for you.

Samples?

Wait in the yard. I'll be right with you.

Come on, you, go and play.

Go and play.

Careful you don't fall. Off you go.

Be careful.

Are you mad, turning up here?

Why not bring a brass band too?

We look shifty?

A suitcase? Why not a truck?

Smile, Mr. Victor.

It's a good haul.

Don't worry, there's stuff for all tastes.

Is it true about the gardener?

Should we have let him yell?

I said no bloodshed!

If you can't steal jewels without knocking out half the city,

change jobs!

If it happens again, go elsewhere!

Calm down and don't yell.

I'm telling you, I won't deal with amateurs.

I want meticulous work.

Peaceful and pleasant.

We'd prefer that too.

We only knocked him out. And it was worth it.

Two fine candlesticks, a set of silver and no end of snuffboxes.

As we were in shape,

coming back...

Isn't this a find?

I saw. It shocks me. Sacred stuff is against my principles.

Is it gold or not?

- 20 carats. - Less shocking?

With initials on it, it's harder to sell.

I'll warn you.

This time, we want to profit too.

Some make their dough at bit too easily, so feel free.

We can go elsewhere.

He's grouchy.

We do the dirty work and take the risks. You pay for that.

- This is cheap junk. - We want 30 grand.

- Make it 10. - Forget it.

- Let's go - Wait!

Wait a second!

You're acting like amateurs!

Should I put it in the window, with a sign marked "Bargain"?

"St Eulalie's sacred urn and the duchess's silverware."

Try to think!

I've been trying to sell this for five years.

It's as worthless as Russian bonds now.

It's not possible.

Sometimes, I'd rather have 3% than all your junk.

Calm down.

I am calm. I'm making an honest offer.

10,000 francs right now.

If I sell the goods for more, I'll pay you the rest.

My word as an honest man.

What do you think?

- 10 grand... - It's a big haul.

A big haul? Give me time to examine it.

We'll come back. Pay the deposit.

That's more like it.

Here, count it.

Take this to accounts and pack up with Robert.

I need a word, Victor.

- With me? - Of course.

- I need to see you tonight. - Not tonight.

There's a new baby and twice a day is too much.

I'm only insisting as it's important.

- Very important? - Yes.

Use the back door then. I'll expect you at half past nine.

Off you go now.

Coming for a drink?

No time. It's 9:10 pm. I'm due at the police station at 9.

Murderers never work before 10.

Those crooks had us on edge all day.

- Do you have a lead? - We pretend we do.

With elections soon, people need reassuring.

I have to say it happens quite often.

You know, I'm just the acting chief inspector so...

It's amazing you're the acting chief inspector.

Why?

You have so many colds, you haven't much of a nose.

You're an amusing fellow.

Tell me, do you take this street every day?

After dinner,

I take a stroll. I don't walk enough at the store.

You're brave.

You're worried.

We're well protected.

Come on, it's time for bed.

Good night, Daddy.

Good night, son. Sleep tight.

Don't cry.

Let's go. No tantrums.

Good night, son.

Stop sulking and say what's wrong.

Your teeth ache? The food isn't good?

Men can be such cowards.

You never cause a scene or beat your wife.

You prefer silence.

Best left unsaid.

You play the philosopher but sulk if some gigolo speaks to me.

You should've married a hunchback.

God knows I behave.

Know why? Because I'm stupid.

But I regret the missed opportunities.

I can do better than a cobbler!

The years pass and I have nothing.

Just a sulky husband and his brat!

I'm not made for this life!

You have to deserve a woman like me. Work it out!

I'm sick of watching you eat and snore!

That's going to change!

Where are you going?

To eat in peace, if you don't mind. Good night.

One more.

Come on now, Bastien, that's six now.

The sixth one is always the best.

Thank you, Mr. Lenoir.

No denying it, lovers are cute.

Look at that. Nothing but smiles and teasing.

You know,

Mrs. Robineau...

That's my wife.

Only Bastien counted at first.

That's me.

It was Bastien this, Bastien that...

Now look how Mrs. Robineau acts.

Right under her husband's nose.

I say, "Beware."

With her blue eyes and angelic air,

the lady will be trouble for you.

VICTOR AGARDANNE TRUSTED SUPPLIER

Roaming at night and climbing walls is dangerous and tiring.

With the years, you have enough.

So I'm looking to change. I've found a lovely little garage.

Well located, almost good as new.

I'll go straight and be my own boss.

The consideration of others is always welcome.

As well you know.

What's that to do with me?

You're less canny at night.

To get started, I need some capital.

I worked it out. 30 bills will get me going.

Fine, but what's it to do with me?

Don't play the fool, please. I've made you a lot.

I'm counting on you.

Bad idea, I have no money.

- You'll find some. - I won't look.

True, I didn't expect you to be over the moon.

But if I call on your complacency with a little energy,

maybe you'll understand.

Threats now?

No, just means.

Blackmail then.

Effective means, say.

Amédée, my boy, we needed this conversation.

I was expecting it.

You thought you'd scare me into playing along.

You poor fool.

I'd foreseen a sly move like this.

Listen, Amédée,

don't try it or you'll meet your match

and you'll see who I am. I'll get you locked up.

The other guys will hear.

To hell with them.

They wouldn't be happy to learn what you said.

They'd have to believe you.

Watch it or I'll get you locked up.

In a cell with you.

Don't worry about me. I've taken my precautions.

I have guarantees. I'm Mr. Victor Agardanne.

I have a mother, I have a wife and I have a son.

I'll stop at nothing to defend them.

You have nothing, no family.

You're officially a crook, so try nothing.

So you're refusing?

Yes, the hearing is over.

You may regret it.

Instead of acting mean, do your job.

Go out first, I'm closing up.

- Going home? - Yes.

May I go part of the way with you?

If you think you scare me...

You think I've had too many.

But if you were in my shoes,

seeing that lout disrespect your wife, you'd feel murderous too.

I can always set her straight.

With blood as hot as mine, I could easily knock her out.

That's true, but then what?

What would you do in my shoes?

In your shoes? I'd go straight to bed.

Sleeping won't sort it out.

Bastien's no coward, you hear!

I have to close now, it's late.

I want to be left in peace.

I want to be left in peace.

- By everyone. - Go home.

However much I enjoy your company,

I'll be straight with you.

We're frank about what we do,

but you, with your relations and manners,

you're the cream of vermin.

So I'll be pitiless, ok.

Go ahead, it's all foreseen.

Even anonymous letters?

- What? - That's surprised you.

We'd begin nice and gently.

"Mr. Agardanne may not be the man you think."

Lost your nerve now. I've got you cornered!

No need to yell.

I'll yell if I want. Everyone ought to know.

Shut your mouth.

Seriously?

Monsieur is a receiver, yet plays the good husband,

the obedient son and the tender father.

A fine family you make.

Just wait till your wife finds out.

- My wife? - Yes.

- And your son. - My son?

When he grows up.

My child?

Yes, your son. I could smash your face in.

You don't threaten me, you hear?

You don't threaten me.

A Mmedee”?

Come on, get up.

Get up, my boy.

- Another drunk. - Let's wake him.

- He's done for. - What do we do?

We'd like to have some fun.

Not now. Get the police.

- It's that fellow. - Who?

That chicken who argue with the cobbler.

Victor?

Yes, Mother.

But...

What are you doing?

I'm here in the bathroom.

You're home so late. On a day like today.

End of the month.

There's a lot of work at the store.

Madeleine wanted to see you.

But she couldn't keep her eyes open.

Come and see. They're sleeping like angels.

- Go to bed. - No.

- Why not? - I'm not sleepy.

I couldn't sleep, I'm too worked up.

I'll keep you company, Mother.

What a day...

- Where's the ambulance? - On its way.

- Chief! - What is it?

This was in the gutter. The murder weapon.

- What is it? - A cobbler's awl.

We'll soon find the culprit now!

Get Le Petit Var.

Special edition.

The Draguignan assizes' verdict.

Thank you, sir. Your change.

All the details. Get Le Petit Var.

Bastien Robineau 10 years of hard labour

PENAL COLONY

Even worse than yesterday.

Stop complaining.

You're one of the lucky ones here.

I got twice as long as you.

Maybe you and I didn't do the same thing.

Your guy and my missus are the same.

But courts in Brittany are tougher.

That's not how I see it.

The way to make juries agree is to escape.

You have a yacht?

Not a yacht, just boards.

Rotten boards that will float.

It's a long way to go.

It's all I think about, night and day.

If ever I try it, it won't be at random.

Here, you have to learn to wait.

And stay quiet.

6200!

Present!

5600!

- 8465! - Present!

A letter for you.

Toulon?

If it's theater tickets, think of me.

I'd wager it's a tax demand.

Or advertising for Beaujolais.

You've got a nerve.

Here, read it.

Extract from marriage registry

By judgement of the Toulon tribunal on November 16, 1931,

the marriage has been dissolved by divorce.

How about that.

Your wife soon dumped you.

That she did.

SEVEN YEARS LATER

Excuse me, Mr. Paroli.

Pass, my boy.

Chartreuse, brandy?

Brandy, please.

Thank you.

Daddy, how big was the whale?

As big as a house.

As a house! And you complain he exaggerates.

I don't complain about that. After all, I'm a Southerner too.

- Have you ever seen a whale? - No.

You can only talk about whales if you've seen one.

When I say a house, I mean a small one.

As big as an elephant.

That's it, as big as an elephant.

My son's smart.

Like his mother.

Paroli, do you mind?

And his grandmother.

The boy's like me, just like me.

The forehead, the eyes, the walk, my spitting image.

Stop it, you'll make him cry.

- Pretty music, isn't it? - Very pretty.

When I hear the navy band,

it opens up my heart.

I want to do a good deed.

Don't mind me.

Madeleine...

Come over here, dear.

Give me your little hand.

Is that your good deed?

You can be so silly.

I feel so moved.

If I hadn't gone into trade,

I would have been in the arts.

I'm happy.

I shouldn't really say that.

But I'm happy anyway.

Why shouldn't you say it?

No reason.

How about that!

- Now that hurts. - What does?

A fellow below. I'll withhold his name.

I'd have arrested him, with proof.

The admiral greeted him!

What of it? That's how it goes.

You've no idea how many fellows don't have a clear conscience.

If I shout, "You're under arrest," at least ten will turn around.

You see hoodlums everywhere.

True culprits aren't always in jail.

Remember that.

Right.

Talking of prison, Robineau's wife is remarrying.

Robineau?

That cobbler who was transported five or six years ago.

You said he was innocent.

You too?

So?

So his wife's remarrying a certain...

Robert Sirani.

A fine scoundrel, I hear.

What do I care about it?

Don't be unpleasant. Your mother thought you'd be interested.

Well, I'm not!

Not in the least.

This marriage is odd. It amuses me.

Everything amuses a child.

I can't say why, of course.

But, very shortly,

there'll be some new developments.

What?

You're annoying! You whet our appetite, then clam up like an oyster.

Idiot!

After coffee and a cigarette, you yell at me.

- I'd rather go to the police station. - Go on.

Goodbye, ma'am.

I'll see you out.

Don't drink so much.

- Leave me be. - You know it's bad for you.

Leave me be, damn it!

You get so worked up. There's no talking to you.

I still can't get used to it.

Too bad then.

I don't know what I said to make you turn mean.

Maybe.

Won't you tell me why?

Put the boy to bed.

He can't be comfy with his chin between his knees.

You'll put me off loving you.

What?

A wife can tire of her husband.

You're a good man, that's why I forgive you.

- But your endless bad mood... - My bad mood?

Worse, it's like a sickness.

You're not sick. We've seen doctors.

What are you saying?

That you've changed since the boy was born.

You wanted him so much, but he has parted us.

Maybe you can't love two people at once, so focus on him.

But I exist too.

Is it serious?

No, it's not serious.

If I stop loving you, nothing will change here.

You're too busy to even notice.

That's why it's best to tell you.

Come on.

Say good night to Daddy.

Good night.

Get the special edition with all the details.

Get Le Petit Var.

Tell me, Mr. Agardanne,

can I wash these trousers? My husband gets dirty.

- Yes, ma'am. - I doubt it.

You can't judge trousers' washability by looking at them!

I bet they shrink in the wash.

- Why say that? - Cheap cotton.

For 8.95 francs, you can't expect georgette!

You're not very pleasant.

You have worries?

Do you want them? You're not my psychologist!

Do you mind?

If you don't want them, go!

Try the next shop, it's always empty.

You can analyse their life all you want!

Really! Goodbye, Mr. Agardanne.

That's right, goodbye!

Claire, come here. Why send that woman to me?

- She wanted you to serve her. - She's served now!

Look at the mess she's made of my trousers!

Landlord, give me a nice cold pastis.

Yes, Madam Adrienne, I'll just fetch some ice.

Maurice, you'll dirty your suit!

Robert said I could have fun today.

So have fun with him.

Marriage doesn't suit you.

Your pastis. Here's to the bride!

There, nice and cold.

You're marrying in a hurry.

After seven years?

Robert's smart. When he heard the other was due back...

What other?

Your first husband.

Robineau's coming back?

It's in today's paper. Don't you read it?

Not on my wedding day.

There'll be enough to drink.

- Even for you, Remy. - True.

Look, he escaped. Who'd have thought it?

Former cobbler escapes

He's been seen hanging around nearby.

Thank you.

I didn't tell you anything.

Robert, dear.

Yes, beauty?

Come with me.

You'd like that?

- Excuse me. - Go ahead.

What is it, darling?

You're fond of me.

I certainly am.

It's kind what you did for me.

I'd thought of it for a while.

But the time was never right.

I see.

Why did you want to marry after seven years?

Because Bastien's coming back.

What? He's coming back?

- As if you didn't know. - I swear I didn't.

Scared you'll get beaten up?

Marrying me keeps you safe.

And fast, as your police pals told you he was nearby.

You're mad.

You're covering your back.

One thing's less good.

If I marry, Mr. Victor says he won't help me any longer.

Very bourgeois of him.

He'll pay for Maurice's school, not my allowance.

That's a bother.

I'll tell you, I'm glad.

You'll miss the money, you idler.

Vixen.

Hey, you lovebirds!

Are we having the wedding meal?

Yes, we're coming.

Seen this?

It doesn't bother me.

It doesn't?

I couldn't care less about it.

You can't go anywhere nowadays.

The whole street is full of fellows with clodhoppers like this.

They're setting a trap.

They surround a suspicious spot.

They keep watch, day and night.

And when Mr. Robineau can't resist,

he falls into their net and they capture him.

Like two fools, you think

he'll come back here?

After the penal colony and the sharks, he'll get caught like an idiot?

- Calm down. - I am calm!

I'm just saying what I think.

America and Africa await him.

He can be a gold prospector, a coffee planter,

he can trade in Negroes, buffaloes...

But you, the great minds of Toulon, say he can only live here.

You're two jackasses!

You're yelling at us for no reason.

I'm saying nothing. I'm not yelling.

I'm saying nothing.

But if you're expecting him here...

Oh, damn it.

ROUVIERE SCHOOL

Around his old store and his former wife's home,

we're keeping a discreet watch.

It's odd, Mr. Principal, but these louts have feelings.

That's why we thought of the school.

You can forget a woman,

but a child stays in your heart.

Young Maurice

is our bait, you see?

Yes, of course.

But please be as tactful as possible.

These young minds must be handled carefully.

We're considerate, fear not.

Come in.

I didn't send for you to tell you off, my boy. Come here.

These two kind gentlemen have come because they care about you.

Listen to them carefully.

Yes, sir.

I'm counting on you.

Gentlemen, excuse me. Work to do.

Go ahead.

Hello, son.

You look like a smart young man.

- We can talk to you. - Yes, sir

Listen to me.

One of these days, after school,

a man may approach you,

talk to you, ask you to follow him.

A man who'll seem emotional and edgy.

Don't panic.

Answer his questions.

Pretend to be happy. Laugh with him.

Until you pass a police officer.

At that point,

point to the man and shout,

"It's him!"

- Who? - We'll tell you later.

It'll be fun, you'll see.

You'll get a good reward too. Something very nice.

I won't do it. I don't like cops.

It's disgraceful, using a child.

Come on, there's a 20,000-franc reward.

They want it.

- What did you say? - I hope you refused.

I said I wouldn't do it.

Good boy. I'll make you cocoa.

Great!

- Do your homework. - Yes, Mom.

Listen, Maurice.

Listen to me.

You did right.

Don't tell them, tell me.

Why?

If you tell me, I'll buy you a bicycle.

They'll give you nothing.

Really?

From tomorrow on, I'll wait for you outside school.

No, not outside, he won't be able to speak to you.

I'll wait outside the corner bar.

- What if he talks to me? - Ignore him.

Mom tells me to answer politely.

She's right, but ignore him.

How will I know it's him?

You'll see, he'll look tired.

- Like you on Saturday night? - Even worse.

If he speaks to me, I hide.

You're not a Redskin, silly.

If it works, you'll get a nice bicycle.

Ok, Robert.

Several verbs may have a single object.

"A child must cherish and respect his parents."

Good heavens!

What a downpour.

Filthy weather to be out.

True, Mr. Agardanne.

Who is it?

Bastien?

Were you waiting for me?

Yes, I was.

Why me?

To ask you something.

- Me? - Yes, you.

Come inside.

So, what do you want to ask?

Well, Mr. Agardanne,

you testified in my favour at my trial,

so I can trust you.

I'd like to see my son, but I don't know how.

I thought maybe you could help.

You were right to come.

It's a bit reckless though as the police are looking for you.

Yes, I know that.

And if they catch me...

Don't worry, I have a few ideas.

Over there,

I had a lot of time to think.

Of course.

But listen,

it's not wise to stay here.

Are you thirsty or hungry?

- No. - Yes.

I could cause you problems.

No risk. I can help you. Some people are still honest.

Not that many.

Come upstairs.

Come on.

You haven't changed much.

I hear Guiana is terrible.

What I mean is, I recognized you right away.

That's rather odd as you and I barely knew each other.

Don't exaggerate. I spoke to you on that final day, remember.

What a memory!

It wasn't that long ago.

It depends who for.

Go on up.

I'll turn the light on.

Make yourself at home.

Well then,

won't you have a bite to eat?

A glass of brandy?

You're wrong, Mr. Agardanne, what you're doing is dangerous.

If the police find out I'm here, they'll see you as my accomplice.

Your accomplice?

That's an amusing idea.

It could get you five years.

Really?

Receiving a criminal.

Receiving? Why do you say that?

It's the correct term.

Is it?

I know all the right terms.

Poor Bastien.

I often thought of you.

Sit down.

Thank you, Mr. Agardanne.

This will warm you up.

You're not drinking?

I'll have a lump of sugar soaked in brandy.

- Good health. - Cheers, Bastien.

So...

Adrienne has remarried.

Yes, she remarried.

Not long ago.

You don't seem too upset.

I haven't come back for her.

You already said that.

By the way, concerning Adrienne,

I'll tell you something that may surprise you.

I paid your wife an annuity.

A small allowance.

- You? - Yes.

I took care of raising your son. Well, I did my best.

You?

Why?

Why? Because you're innocent.

You didn't kill the fellow at the ropeworks.

You told everyone that.

You didn't know Amédée. Neither did I.

I didn't know his name. It was after we argued over Adrienne.

I told them it was all balderdash.

They convicted an innocent man.

It's the Dreyfus affair all over again.

Thank you, Mr. Victor. You've no idea how grateful I am.

Goodbye then.

You're leaving?

Bastien, where will you go?

Don't worry about me, I said.

If they catch me, it may be better with the idea I have.

The idea?

What's your idea?

An investigation can be reopened.

The press could take over.

No one knew this Amédée or had mentioned him.

Obviously, yes.

Bastien, I don't think that would be wise.

If they catch you, they'll put you back in jail.

I have an idea too.

No, Mr. Agardanne, I have to go. Thanks again.

For your son,

to see your son, don't turn yourself in.

Where will you go?

I'll hide at Mother Pauline's.

To see young Maurice, I'll come here.

Mother Pauline's? Are you mad?

There's a 20,000-franc reward.

I know that. 20,000 francs to get me back.

That's how keen they are. You never made that mending shoes.

You can say that again.

If you leave here...

- You'd like me to stay here? - Of course.

- Until when? - Until they forget the reward!

It isn't easy to forget.

Not at all.

You know people here.

They'll see you everywhere for a fortnight,

then they'll tire of it.

You'll be at the fishmonger's and they won't even be bothered.

But what would you tell your wife?

I'll think of something.

Listen, Bastien,

I offer you my home.

Until your luck changes.

A chance to see your son again and now you refuse?

Could I see my son?

Of course, whenever he comes to see mine.

Frankly, Mr. Agardanne,

I don't know why you're going to such trouble for me.

Isn't being innocent enough reason?

Having suffered like you did?

Logically, you shouldn't care.

Noble feelings and you...

No, it's just not possible.

Listen, Bastien...

If you go out, you'll be arrested right away.

If you stay here, you stand a chance of making it.

Think hard.

I can't force you to let me save you.

You're an extraordinary fellow, Mr. Agardanne.

You'll stay.

Go and sit down, Bastien.

I'll let my wife know.

No, don't wake her.

I can't avoid it.

You weren't asleep?

Did you hear me talking?

No. Why are you so flustered?

Guess what's happened. Gaston...

Gaston, my old friend that I mention so often.

Who?

Come on, you remember Gaston,

a charming, polite fellow, but a hothead.

One day, he did something wrong over a woman.

Straight to the Foreign Legion.

Just outside, under my umbrella, under the porch, I mean,

I found Gaston.

He's a deserter.

He begged me to hide him here.

Hide him here?

I refused at first, of course.

I have a wife, a child... But he kept insisting.

It's all right. If you can feed three, you can feed four.

We'll dismiss the maid so she won't talk.

A good job mother bathes herself. In the sea, I mean.

Really, I can't abandon him.

Well, for a friend...

What a wonderful wife. Come and meet him.

I'm half-naked.

Good. I mean, never mind. He won't care.

- Come on. - This is crazy.

Here, put your camisole on.

Gaston, meet my wife.

Prettier than me.

My friend Gaston.

Gaston...

Bernier.

- Hello, sir. - Hello, ma'am.

I know you have some problems at the moment.

As you're my husband's friend, I'll do all I can to help.

Thank you, ma'am.

Isn't she wonderful?

Really, Victor... Our guest still has his coat on.

Sorry.

Forgive me, ma'am. I've messed up your armchair.

It doesn't matter. We have another.

No one, ok, not shopkeepers, nor your classmates.

No one must know about the man here.

- You already told me. - So you'll understand.

If I don't talk, will I get the train set?

Yes, you will.

- The big one? - Anything you want.

I won't talk then.

Well?

He won't say a word.

Mommy promised I'd get that electric train.

With the station, signals and tunnel.

- You'll have it all. - Great!

I'll bring it from the store.

- Can I play on the square? - Go on.

No, not yet, eat breakfast first. Have your coffee.

Have you dismissed the maid?

Yes, I had to. It's a pity, she worked hard and cooked well.

- And Gaston? - What Gaston?

Gaston's here, he'll have breakfast too.

Come with me.

Come on.

Come out, I dismissed the maid.

Well then...

Did you sleep well?

Not that well.

I'm sorry.

Hello, ma'am.

Was the bed too hard?

Too soft, more like. I'm not used to it.

Of course, back in the barracks,

the pallets they sleep on...

- Met my son? - No.

You haven't?

He's wonderful. Come on.

This is my son.

Fernand... Gaston, your new friend.

Hello, sonny.

Will I get my train set?

We'll be good friends.

Yes, sir.

We'll play together.

I don't want to.

Why won't you play with him?

He's too badly dressed.

What a nasty thing to say!

Your son's amusing.

Sorry, Gaston, but you know children.

I'm afraid I don't.

I wasn't given time.

But he's right, I am badly dressed.

I'll take your measurements and find you something.

I know what you need. A tie to match your blue eyes.

All right, dear, let's have our coffee.

Just a second.

The sun's strong.

The neighbours don't need to see in.

You'll be just fine here.

Did I scare you?

You never scare me.

You're so chic I barely recognized you.

A gift from Victor. The shirt and tie too.

He even gave me a hat. That's a real luxury.

Well, I have a hat.

You're too chic to help me.

No, not at all.

Really?

Let's hurry, the dishes are waiting.

No, wait a second.

You can come in now.

Here's a cloth if you want to help.

The suit looks good.

I'm not so sure.

- I'll always prefer the other. - Why?

It took me a lot of trouble to get it.

I owe it my freedom.

Is the Legion so bad that you wanted to leave?

It got me down.

If they catch me, it's hard labour.

That's why I hide.

Will you stay here long?

- I'm in the way. - Not at all.

Say when you've had enough and I'll go.

Don't be silly. It's not about me.

Even if it bothered me, you could stay.

You enlisted over a woman. What was she like?

A bit like you.

You don't enlist over women like me.

You marry women like me.

They keep house and do the dishes.

Sometimes, they make you happy.

Victor's lucky to have you.

He deserves it.

Yes, he deserves it.

He's so remarkable.

Remarkable.

A heart of gold.

Kindness made man.

And always in a good mood too.

Always.

He'd never mess up.

Over a woman? No.

A fine, upstanding life.

Nice and simple.

Sorry.

Forgive me.

There you are. Here.

- What's wrong? - What could be wrong?

We were talking about you.

No reason to look so grim.

Silly.

- Have a cigar. - No, thank you.

Go on.

I don't like cigars.

You're right to help if you can't be pleasant.

Give me a cloth.

Playing or not, Paroli?

Should I point or shoot?

Frankly, Mr. Paroli, if I were you, I'd point.

I prefer to shoot.

I'll take a walk then.

I'd be risking my life if I stayed.

- Tell me, Paroli... - Yes?

Who's looking for the fugitive today?

We are.

Looking for him here?

If he's in Toulon, he'll come to watch us play boules

- Think so? - It seems he was a good player.

Would he shoot?

Arrest him and ask his advice.

Look out!

That was worth the wait!

You see, after making the front page,

you're on page three now.

In two days, you'll be a minor item

and, next week, we'll find you in the small ads.

Less flattering.

At that point, Bastien, when everyone's forgotten you,

I'll do something for you.

You've done so much.

I've thought it out.

I'll send you to Switzerland.

Yes, I'll help you.

I'll give you a new life.

Listen, Victor...

You're a good man.

Listen, since I got here,

I haven't really thanked you

for everything you're doing, but you know...

You're such a good man, Victor.

Victor, before you go to the store, could you take

the boy's shoes to be mended?

Unless...

you could mend then, Bastien.

- Why call him Bastien? - You call me Madeleine.

You knew?

Of course.

- How? - It was easy enough.

When you introduced your friend Gaston, you nearly forgot his name.

Then I recognized him. And the rest.

You hide the newspaper.

And your embarrassed air too.

Why didn't you tell me the truth?

I'd have hidden Bastien too.

You always told me the poor fellow was innocent.

Why on earth did you lie to me?

An innocent man is better than a guilty one.

I didn't think.

I know him well enough to see he's not guilty.

Even if he was, he killed for his wife.

It was for love. I can understand that.

I swear it wasn't that.

I didn't love Adrienne enough.

I was fond of her, but not enough for that.

Why did you lie to me?

Now you know, don't get angry.

I'm not angry.

Just upset you don't know me better.

Excuse me a second.

You're not really angry?

Not at all.

Remember Bastien's boy is coming today.

Do a nice tea with cream, chocolate and cakes.

To make Fernand sick?

It's just this once.

I'm off to the store.

Why do all this for Bastien?

Out of humanity.

So you pamper and coddle him like an invalid?

You exaggerate like a Southerner!

You risk a lot, harbouring an escaped convict.

What is he to you?

You, my wife, you're asking me that?

Yes.

He's nothing.

He couldn't believe I was doing it out of kindness.

He didn't know me, but you do.

That's something else!

There are decent men around.

There are decent men and I'm one of them.

He knows that. He's asking for nothing more.

Forgive me.

Besides, it will only be for a few days.

Paroli thinks Bastien is in Algeria.

He can leave soon.

I'll send him to my friend Carlin in Switzerland.

Feel better now?

Yes, I do.

Give me a kiss.

Passengers to Paris, all aboard.

Toulon, Marseilles,

Avignon, Lyons, Dijon, Paris!

You don't like my train?

I would if it was a real one.

You know the goods yard?

Yesterday, with some pals, we went there and had a smoke.

Want to play soldiers?

Lead toys. If only you could go out.

Why?

You know the sand pit?

Girls play silly games there.

8 or 10 of us sneak up, hide

and then jump out at them.

You should see them scarper.

We always catch one, take her shoe

and never give it back, however much she cries.

We have a good laugh.

I can't do that.

You can't? And you think we can?

Listen...

- Yes or no? - No, I won't.

You're chicken.

I'd be scared.

Like I said, you're a scaredy-cat.

- Let's play with my building blocks. - You're a bore.

We'd have made a nice castle.

- Did you see that? - What?

A face at the window looking at us.

- My mom? - No, it was a man.

Dad's at the store. There's no man here.

It was a man and he hid. Come on.

- We mustn't, Maurice. - It's fun.

- It's not allowed. - Get lost.

- Let go. - You want a slap?

I'll give you anything, my officers, my blocks.

- Keep your toys. - My red book.

Move or you'll get it.

My boat.

Your boat?

- The big one? - If you say nothing.

You mean it?

Yes, come on.

Here it is.

I really liked it.

If you'd rather keep it...

I'd rather you say nothing.

Being good?

- You were noisy just now. - We were playing.

You'll need to go soon, Maurice. Your mother might worry.

I doubt it.

You have to go anyway.

Show your friend out.

Bye, Maurice.

Bastien, careful! Come here!

Why did you come out?

If only you knew.

I can imagine.

Maurice is a nasty little lout. What have they made of him?

He's just impolite now and then.

He's the worthy son of Robert.

He's fine when he keeps quiet, but he spoke freely.

He's made him into a lout.

My son.

The last thing I had left.

Why the last thing?

You upset me, Bastien.

Maybe I'm not as unfortunate as I think.

What I lost wasn't worth much.

There are the years I lost,

but I don't regret them

as they're what brought me here,

to this kind, welcoming home.

And you're here too, Madeleine.

When I see you cry, it does me so much good.

My sorrow does you good?

Yes, because I caused it.

- Only natural. - No.

It shows you feel more than pity for me.

I knew when I saw you cry.

Victor will be back.

That means I'm not wrong.

No, I just feel pity for you.

- Pity wouldn't scare you. - I'm not scared.

You're mad!

You're hurting me! This is his home.

- I don't care. - He risks so much.

Only you matter, Madeleine.

That's like calling the police to defend yourself.

It's the only way.

You just had to say you don't love me.

Why don't you?

What do you want to eat?

I'm not hungry. Too many cakes at Fernand's.

Leave that thing be.

Hey, it's mine!

You're so ill-mannered!

- Miss! - Here I am.

Just a second.

The kid may lie to others, but not to me.

He saw someone at the window.

And?

Someone who's being hidden.

And who's strangely interested in Maurice.

I get it.

Don't you sense something fishy in all this?

No idea who it could be.

Know who Maurice's father is?

Why would Agardanne hide him?

Agardanne can't stand me,

yet invites no one but Maurice to tea.

Let's question the kid.

Come here.

What is it?

Tell me, sonny,

what was the fellow peering through the window like?

Young or old?

Not old.

Fair or dark?

Dark.

He seemed to be hiding?

Yes, Fernand gave me his boat to shut me up.

Did his face strike you?

Ok, go and have your dinner.

That's all you wanted?

For now. Off you go.

Well?

I reckon it's worth making an effort for 20 grand.

If we proceed cautiously, we'll be safe.

Here's my plan.

You're here?

You said you'd stay in your room until Victor got back.

I'm leaving.

Before he gets back.

I lost my mind earlier.

I can't sit at his table again.

But outside...

I had no right to behave like that.

I owe him everything and I wanted to take his wife.

And I still do.

What if you're recognized?

It'll be dark soon.

People are looking for me less now.

You know, Madeleine,

if I were in love alone, I could have remained silent.

But, since earlier,

I know you too...

Please, don't make me say,

here in his home,

words I can't say.

What makes me happy

is that after seven years there,

I haven't turned into a bastard.

Farewell, Madeleine.

Try to get away from them.

I've brought fish soup.

And some treats.

Where is she?

I've brought...

Are you off on a trip?

I was telling Madeleine...

What?

I've decided to leave.

Do you have a screw loose?

It's best if I leave.

You decide all of a sudden

when I bring fish soup for a good feast?

Couldn't you stop this fool?

- What are you both up to? - It's nothing to do with Madeleine.

It's just that,

in spite of your care and kindness,

I'm stifling here.

I need a breath of fresh air.

Fresh air?

Listen...

- Expecting someone? - No.

Very strange.

- Don't answer. - For God's sake!

It would seem odd.

Don't stay here, you.

Go to your room.

Sorry to bother you.

Maurice forgot his watch here.

He and Fernand played with it. Maybe it's on a table.

No.

No what?

You're not here for the watch.

You never bought one.

- You can't talk to me like that! - Yes.

I can.

You're right.

I'm not here for the watch,

but for Bastien.

I know he's here.

Here?

His kid saw him and gave him away.

What if he is here?

Then we'll share, as always.

So?

Where are you hiding him?

There he is.

I'm hiding Bastien

because he's innocent.

- What? - Yes.

- He didn't kill Amédée. - The Pope did?

No, it wasn't the Pope.

I killed him.

You?

Yes.

You're involved too.

If you squeal, I'll spill the beans.

I'll talk about our work.

I'll say you saw me kill him and said nothing

because you wanted Bastien's wife.

It was you?

On my child's life.

Amédée tried to blackmail me.

Using Bastien's awl,

I struck at random.

Understand?

Instead of getting the reward,

you'll get 10 years' hard labour.

Call the inspector now.

You can even use my phone.

I already ratted on Bastien.

Paroli will be here any minute.

You move fast when it comes to dirty tricks.

It's all a mess today.

Never mind.

You'll say you did it as a joke.

- They won't fall for it. - They will.

Paroli's a friend.

We just need to appear totally at ease

and in a good mood.

Good old Mr. Victor.

A real swine.

Think what you like, but shut your mouth.

Stir yourself!

Take the port and glasses. Go to sit in the living room!

For a neighbourly drink.

Play along. You know how much you risk.

Go on, off you go.

Paroli!

With your brigade?

Here to arrest me or for a drink?

Is Robert here?

Having a nice sip of port.

There's a drop left.

Robert!

Mr. Paroli.

What was I saying?

Victor, this is...

Have a seat.

I'll explain.

He took you for a ride.

And you rode.

What?

Shut up.

All right...

Robert and I made a bet. I wagered

that if he told you I'm hiding Bastien, you'd believe it.

And you did. I've won my bet.

Sit down.

You fooled me?

- Inspector... - Shut up.

You can believe us.

You think a police inspector is your plaything?

Is he here or not?

Let me explain.

Get down off your high horse.

- It's a joke. - One big joke.

Joke or not, let's get to work.

- You can't mean it? - Get moving!

Bastien...

Don't overdo it, you've got me now.

I came here last night, inspector,

and begged Mr. Agardanne to put me up for one night.

I wanted to see my son.

The Agardannes took pity on me.

Please don't blame them for their kindness.

Take him in.

I saw Maurice, so now...

If Robert gets the 20,000-franc reward, I'll be pleased.

It'll allow him to raise my son a bit better.

Take him in now.

Mr. Agardanne...

Thank you for your hospitality.

I can't shake your hand, but I wish I could.

Let's go.

- Inspector. - What now?

- Inspector! - Shut up.

Bastien didn't kill Amédée.

He's not the killer!

I know who did it! I know who killed Amédée!

I know who!

Say, Rémy...

Where did Robert go an hour and a half ago?

To Mr. Victor's.

What on earth for?

Tell me why.

Bastien's there.

How do you know?

Maurice told us.

What'll you do?

Get the reward.

Robert's seeing to it?

Actively.

What bastards you are!

Robert has his wife and his son,

and now he rats on him to the police, using Maurice!

- Calm down, people are watching. - I don't care!

When he gets home, I'll give him what for!

And I spit on you, you louses!

Calm down!

- Come on. - You're too much.

Mrs. Barbacanne, he was hiding in the cellar.

I say he was in the attic.

He threatened the whole Agardanne family.

- Incredible - Terrible!

I believe you.

Mr. Remy!

- They've arrested him! - Robineau?

You'll never guess where he was hiding.

- At Mr. Victor's. - Fancy.

What a crowd. The police, reporters, it's chaos.

I have to see it.

When I saw him drained and scared, it made me so angry.

I wanted to punch him in the face.

I didn't do it, Madeleine, for your sake.

I thought of you and I let him be.

Come on, Robineau, let's go.

They won't keep me long this time.

See you soon, Madeleine.

Excuse me.

It isn't him!

How about that! Mr. Victor!

It's Agardanne!

You were right to say I had no nose.

Good Mr. Victor, a receiver, a killer,

letting another do hard labour for you.

You're a real rogue.

You frequented some odd people.

Drive!

TRUSTED SUPPLIER

THE END

A talking picture from ACE and UFA

Subtitles by lan Burley

Subtitling: HIVENTY

Acknowledgements

4K restoration by L'Image Retrouvée, Paris-Bologna

with the support of the CNC