Original subtitles

The overall condition is very good.

- Yes. - There is a small defect

- that we've already noted. - And right here.

Right here at the bottom.

Right here, to the right in the centre.

- And also the corner, bottom right. - Yes.

In the corner.

Is that you?

It's me, Aunt.

Thank you.

Your coffee, madam.

No, thank you, I don't want any.

With an estimate

of 800,000, the price will soar, believe me.

The guarantee.

I want a guaranteed one million.

That is possible.

- Ask again... - Just leave me alone!

My daughter always said that

an auctioneer is like a plastic surgeon:

you have to trust them.

So I trust you.

And you are right.

Your painting will look amazing.

The catalogue draught is very elegant, you'll see.

I won't see, because I am blind.

Your nephew or your daughter.

Definitely not my daughter.

I am selling this painting

specifically so she won't inherit it.

Because my daughter is a disgrace.

All she thinks about is partying.

And dating Black men.

We don't speak.

That's sad.

Yes, especially the part about her dating Black men.

We haven't yet discussed payment terms.

I want the full amount upfront.

Then, the full amount upfront it is.

Make a note of it, Aurora.

Where are you from, Aurora?

My mother is from Roscoff.

Ah, so you're Breton.

My husband was from Vannes.

He was an idiot, like all doctors.

He had no taste,

but I had enough for both of us.

But, you know...

He had the beautiful eyes in all the world.

Thank you.

How are you?

Good.

You're so pale.

I'm not Black, that's for sure.

You're not going to be sick in the car, are you?

Don't worry.

It's just that the car's interior is hard to clean.

Are there many like her?

Women like that?

Plenty.

I adore them.

If you want to be in this business,

you must be willing to do anything.

Otherwise, the asset will go to the competitors.

And I'm ready.

Yes, even to be a whore?

Like me in this madam's living room.

The best part of our profession is when you encounter something truly rare.

Then you're Indiana Jones, but most of the time, you just act...

like a whore.

Then I'll be a whore.

If it's for you, I'm willing.

I didn't hear you.

I said...

- If you want to... - All I want is good sales.

We're in the 21st century.

I was talking about work, and it was a metaphor.

Is your mother really from Roscoff?

Montauban.

THE STOLEN PAINTING

Tell me, have you gained weight?

Well, yes.

First, because of the virus,

I stopped working out,

and then menopause kicked in.

Are you taking hormones?

With menopause, I didn't feel the need.

On the contrary, menopause is when you need them most.

Start before it's too late, and you can blame the weight on them.

- Hi, Sin. - Hi, Kamel.

- How are you? - Hi.

- Hi, Paco. - Hi. How are you?

- Hi, Maria. - Hi.

- Hi. - I don't know if Martin is awake.

He's awake, I called him.

Shall we play before work?

Take the pie. We won't eat it all.

The whole thing? We can't manage it.

- It looks amazing. - Thanks.

How's it going with the new guy?

I broke up with him.

You're taking this.

- Why? - Look.

Ah, right.

No, I already played it.

Are you stupid? Look at the cards.

Don't cheat. This is the card you need to take.

And skip the next round.

- I don't need to... - Come on, take it!

According to the rules, we don't change during play.

You're so annoying.

- Seriously. - Your turn, Paco.

I'll put this one here and this one there.

- That's the whole game. - Paco, chew first, then play.

Mark me down for 16.

Already 16?

I once asked a girl

if she wanted to go on a date with me.

And she said, "Have you even seen your teeth?"

What a bitch.

- When was that? - So hurtful.

It was a long time ago.

Okay.

When exactly?

Come on, tell us.

It was a long time ago.

- And I'm not going to... - Oh, stop.

Come on, talk. Tell us.

That was,

like, in fifth grade.

What?

I give up. Just wasting time with him.

- Why? What did I say? - Never mind.

- Okay, this goes here... - We're out of smokes.

I'll go get some.

- You will? - I'll grab a few more tickets, too.

Thanks.

Is that a shepherd?

Belgian. Or German.

Where are you from?

I'm from Stockholm.

You couldn't tell?

How much is it?

Modern Art Department.

Are you still sulking, Aurore?

I'm not sulking at all.

Suzanne Egerman, lawyer, Mulhouse.

Do you know what she wants?

No idea.

Not true.

How could I know that?

You're sulking.

I won't deal with a grumpy intern.

It's bad for the job.

Smile and be polite.

I've lost my glasses. You read it.

She's requesting authentication

of an Egon Schiele owned by one of her clients.

What?

A painting by Egon Schiele.

- A painting? - Yes.

- Her words. - Let's reply to her.

Because you must always reply to mail.

- How much is an Egon Schiele worth? - A lot.

But they don't exist.

The last one was discovered 30 years ago. And they're all in museums.

- So... - It's a forgery.

I can't see a thing.

Take my phone and dial the number.

Please.

- Excuse me? - You forgot to say "please."

Politeness is so important, after all.

Michel, what's this?

They told me to leave it here.

What else do we have?

What is this?

The space for Metzger isn't ready,

but the movers are already here.

I'll fix your tie.

And they're waiting for you upstairs.

What did I do?

You'll find out yourself. Get up there.

The Saint-Gratz collection will go on sale.

You may sit down.

My apologies.

Sit down.

Our billion-dollar record might be broken.

In an hour, I'll meet Paul and make him an offer.

I can convince him to sell in Paris.

- Saint-Gratz is France, after all. - That's risky.

Paul isn't sentimental, and New York tempts him.

We can't let this auction slip away; it's crucial.

Yes, it's crucial.

Hervé wants your opinion.

About what? About where the sale should happen?

Henri wants to attend the meeting with me and Francis.

That's not a good idea.

I'm the chairman.

Sorry, Henri.

Paul must see that you trust Francis completely.

That Francis is the same as yourself.

Deploying the entire fleet is absurd.

He must believe that by choosing

Francis,

he has chosen the best.

As he has.

- Hi. - Hello.

Andre?

I have a book for you.

A book?

I saw it in a bookshop and couldn't resist.

I already have it.

You're brave to tell me that.

I'm impressed.

I was just being honest.

"Impressed" doesn't mean "respect."

I don't respect you.

I'll survive.

He's only excited by sales.

And the lectures he gives me every other sentence.

I can't take it anymore; Another minute, and I'll scream.

Did you call the number?

What number?

The one I asked you to.

Yes.

Here.

Thank you.

Good job. Thanks.

Who was that?

My sister.

Sister?

- Who is she? - A pharmacist in Niort.

- Not in Montauban? - In Niort.

Maître Egerman, hello, Andre Masson.

Yes, like the painter.

Have you seen this painting?

Yes, have you seen it?

You haven't... Who's the client?

Got it.

Alright.

It would be better to first take a look at this

painting.

Yes.

Alright. I'll send you my card.

Thank you very much, Maître.

A nyctophile who owns Schiele's house in Mulhouse.

A nyctophile?

Someone who sleeps during the day, not at night.

I'll remember that.

He works night shifts at a chemical plant.

They pay better.

If this really is a Schiele,

he could work during the day.

What?

Nothing.

You know, I don't care what you think of me.

Dislike is good for neurons.

What's your problem?

- No problem. - There is.

- You're lying. - I'm not lying.

Yes.

About everything and nothing.

I doubt your sister works in Niort.

Or that she's your sister.

Or that it's her at all.

- My sister... - No, stop.

I don't mind as long as the work is done well.

For example, you forgot to include the warranty for Lot 17.

And what did I tell you?

To include provenance and warranty.

Exactly. Leave it to me.

And take a walk.

Train your eye in a museum or gallery.

Take a break.

How does it look on me?

- Hello. - Good afternoon.

Lot 143, 30-50 euros.

How high will it go?

Fur isn't in demand right now.

I'm not sure how much I can afford for it.

Have there been inquiries about it?

Yes. Here.

Alright, lot 143...

There's a bid.

- Damn. - A reseller.

150 is my limit, or I'll have nothing left to live on.

Unlikely she'll go above a hundred.

- Thanks. - You're welcome.

And the book auction nearby, what time is it?

It's posted on the door.

- Thanks, goodbye. - Goodbye.

Why didn't you call?

I did call.

- You called? - Yeah.

Right.

Hi.

- End of the month. - Thanks.

Damn, I forgot my keys.

I'll have to go back.

To the office? Now?

There's someone there.

Dad, the rent is going up by 20 euros in autumn.

Inflation. Yes.

You'll be okay, though?

I'll manage.

You're so...

You've become even more beautiful.

That jacket, is it new?

My boss's wife was getting rid of her old stuff.

Alright, I'm off.

You going downstairs?

I'll write first.

- Bye. - Bye.

I found them.

They were in the lining.

I was about to call you.

Sorry it's messy.

Well, sit down.

I'm not staying long.

I need to be there in half an hour.

Stop by sometime to listen.

I'm playing Bach, Schubert, Chopin.

- It's not far from here. - I'll try.

Thanks.

Is the work interesting?

I don't know if it's right for me.

- Why? - In this line of work,

you have to play a role.

Pretend.

Everyone pretends.

Your mother pretended to love me, I pretended I still had money.

You pretended you lost your keys and were happy to see me.

It was in the lining.

Want me to show you the hole?

Have you spoken to her?

To Mum?

We're not talking.

She started on about you again, and I got angry, and...

One thing led to another.

We're not speaking.

I'm not speaking to anyone.

Except Julie, we talked today.

Yeah? Any news?

No.

She was doing well in school...

But that's life.

Yours will be good.

Or at least what gives the illusion of life Ė money, success, love.

Why an illusion?

Because life is something else.

And this isn't life.

Then what is life?

Resistance and growth:

that's what life is.

- Hi. - Hi.

How old is he?

She, Gabi, is 2 months old.

I need to go back to work.

And where will she go? Daycare?

They're short-staffed there.

That's what everyone says.

I don't want to let her go.

The first time we took Marten to daycare

we came at 8,

and had to pick him up by 11.

And I couldn't leave; I just stood by the door.

Yes.

Want to hold her?

No, I'm dead tired.

I'll get it.

Mr. and Mrs. Keller?

- That's correct. - Sorry it's so early.

I'm Egerman, a lawyer.

Nice jacket.

A gift from my sister.

Why the confrontational tone?

I was just answering.

I wasn't asking, just pointing it out.

Then I apologise; I didn't mean to provoke.

No need to apologise; a simple "thank you" will suffice.

Thank you.

You've done a great job.

Thank you.

A number I don't recognise.

Answer on speaker and say I'm not here.

Mr. Masson?

He's not available.

Leave a message.

Tell him it's Egerman.

I'm standing in front of a Schiele painting.

Yes, yes.

Good afternoon.

Hello?

You're still there?

I'm sorry.

I didn't realise it was you.

What about the painting?

Well, it has a frame, nails, and paint.

There's a tag from the Basel Museum on the back.

It has a date.

The 28th.

I'll send a photo.

Want to see it?

Well, what do you think?

Yes?

What is it?

Obviously, it's a Schiele.

I see. Where's it from?

From Mulhouse.

It's hanging on the wall of a thirty-year-old worker,

as far as I know.

Well, it's probably a forgery.

But you're not sure?

I'm not 100% sure.

Has Schiele surfaced anywhere in recent years?

Forgeries.

Pretty good ones.

But analysis detected pigments from the '70s.

How's the weather in Lausanne?

Horrible.

Makes you want to drown in the bathtub.

Without love, I always want to die.

And in Paris?

Paris is nice.

Good night.

- Yes? - You said Mulhouse?

Yes, Mulhouse. Why?

Are you still into collectible cars?

- How are you? - Good. And you?

Well?

Satisfied?

It's divinely beautiful.

Have you been to Mulhouse before?

This is my first time here.

And how do you find the Schlumpf Museum?

I haven't been there. I don't drive.

Cars aren't my thing.

In the 15 years we were married, you must have had 8...

Seven.

That's not why we got divorced.

Why did you send the letter by courier?

My email was hacked.

And I trust paper more, even if it sounds old-fashioned.

That's not what I meant.

It's just the next step.

If there will be one.

These are very simple people.

The clients?

The guy works at a chemical plant?

He's just a kid.

Bought a house next to his widowed mother.

Her husband was a miner.

Why mention they're simple?

Next exit, and then right at the roundabout.

For no reason. They'll just feel awkward meeting big experts.

Not experts, specialists.

Is there a difference?

An expert is an independent authority,

recognised by everyone, even if...

In short...

He can say, "This is a Picasso, this is a Rembrandt,"

or a fake, and everyone nods.

We're just company employees who

get asked how much it can sell for.

But you can still tell the difference.

Excuse me.

Yes?

We'll be there in a minute.

They're scared to death.

Sorry for the delay.

It's our fault.

- Hi. - Hi.

- Bertine. - Hello.

- Hi. André. - Hello, sir.

Nice to meet you.

I made coffee.

If monsieur and madames...

Shall we see the painting?

Then coffee, with pleasure.

Thank you, madame.

I'd love a coffee myself.

Well, okay.

After my husband's death, I got sick.

Even though I didn't smoke like he did.

And he...

But somehow, I developed breathing problems.

Have you been here long?

Mum has, but I lived in Thann.

- Sorry? - In Thann.

Ah, I see.

A life annuity seemed profitable.

But Mr. Kemp

was in no hurry to die.

He lived to be 98.

A venerable age.

Still, it felt a bit long to us.

Forgive us, madame.

We're not laughing at you.

Even if it's a bad forgery, it's rude.

It's just nerves.

It's just nerves.

It's authentic.

Authentic.

Unbelievable.

This happens once in a lifetime.

It's very famous.

It's a masterpiece.

We thought it was destroyed, it disappeared in 1939.

That's the heater.

- And the valuation? - What do you think?

Ten?

Twelve? To start.

Twelve...?

Million.

Mum!

Your photo misled us.

I wanted to show the signature.

Schiele painted it in 1914 inspired by Van Gogh's "Sunflowers".

He saw them in 1906

and wanted to reinterpret them.

In his version, they're dead, because of war.

- How's your mother? - I put her to bed.

- Maybe a doctor? - It's just weakness.

Are these your books or the previous owner's?

I don't read that stuff.

Clearly, he loved detective stories.

He was a cop.

Retired.

Is there anything else?

Papers, documents?

We threw some things away.

What exactly was thrown out?

Well, documents, bills, all sorts of junk.

Come in.

I didn't get a chance to throw this out.

Thank goodness.

Looks like it's here.

- Is there a key? - I've never seen one.

You don't know what's inside? You weren't curious?

No idea. I thought maybe linens, clothes.

In a locked suitcase?

This is it.

She passed away over ten years ago.

- Passed away? - From illness.

Did he talk about her?

He didn't talk much at all.

Apparently, he had his reasons.

Bertina, will you translate?

I understand German.

"Sicherheitspolizei."

Security Police.

They oversaw the Criminal Police, "Kripo", and

the Secret State Police,

"Gestapo."

Your previous owners had an interesting youth.

They worked for the Nazis.

The painting was purchased in 1918 by Egon Schiele's patron,

Stefan Wahlberg.

In the 1950s, he wrote his memoirs.

He was Austrian, like Schiele, and Jewish.

In 1938, Austria was annexed by the Nazis.

The head of the Jewish Affairs Department was

Adolf Eichmann.

Jews could still leave,

but they had to pay.

A lot.

Please, could you pour me some water?

Enough?

Go on.

So, Mr. Wahlberg

packed his collection of expressionist art to

move to France.

From there, he hoped to reach the US to

sell it.

And bring his entire family.

But the Germans arrested him in Strasbourg.

He managed to escape,

But he lost the collection.

How did the painting end up here?

The Germans called it degenerate.

Degenerate art.

This

was the term the Nazis used for modern art

and they didn't value it.

So the paintings were either simply destroyed,

or given away as souvenirs.

To some local collaborators in exchange for services.

- Like the Kemp family. - Yes.

And they kept quiet about it.

Then they sold the house.

With all its contents, including the painting.

For them, it was cursed, given its origins.

And Wahlberg?

He settled in the U.S.

He died about 30 years ago.

And his family?

All dead.

They were gassed in Auschwitz. All of them are dead.

Well, I don't want this painting.

I don't want blood on my hands, so...

Give it to the heirs

or to someone else.

- I want to clarify. - Yes?

Possession equals ownership.

The painting was acquired 5 years ago, the statute of limitations has expired.

- Not if it was stolen. - We agree.

The painting will be returned to its legal owners without objection.

- Is there a "but"? - My client.

He acquired the painting honestly.

As a private individual, he is entitled to a share.

But that's not for us to decide.

But convincing

is part of your job; Maybe you can convince him too?

We'll try.

I'm sure you can do better than that.

9 thousand in the back.

- 9. - 9500 on the phone.

- 9500 by phone. - 10 from the lady.

- 10 on the right. - So...

- Against you, 11. - 11.

- 11,100. - No, sir, I do not accept bids

with increments of 100, or we'll be here all night.

I can offer 11,500.

- 11,500, sir? - No?

- No. So, we have... - And 12 online.

And 12 online. 12 here.

13 at the door. 13, sir.

13 at the door. 14 by phone.

- 14. - Sir?

No? So, we have...

14 once, 14 twice, 14 - sold.

Sold!

- Please proceed to that room. - Thank you.

The next lot - an original edition by Jean-…douard du Monen.

One of a kind.

We will start at 3 thousand euros.

3 thousand.

3 thousand. 3 thousand here.

- 3 thousand. - 3 here.

- 4 thousand here. - 5 thousand from the gentleman.

- 5 thousand. - 6 thousand.

6 thousand. Who bids higher?

Anyone higher than six?

Amelie, your bid?

7 thousand. 7 thousand bid.

Amelie, what about on the phone? 7 thousand?

7 thousand!

- 8. - Sir, 8 thousand.

8 thousand. Do we have 9?

No? Is that the final bid?

8 thousand?

8 thousand, going once,

8 twice,

- and 8 sold. - 10.

- 10. - 10 thousand bid by the lady.

11...

12.12 from the lady.

- 12 here. - Any higher bids?

And we have 12 thousand going once.

Going twice.

- And sold. - 15.

15 thousand from the gentleman.

- Show it again. - Yes, place it here.

So, we have 15 thousand in the room.

- Any others? - 25.

25 from the lady.

25 bid here.

30.

- 30 from the gentleman. - 30 bid here.

35.

- 35. - 40.

- 40 thousand! - The bidding isn't over.

We have 40 thousand. Ma'am?

Your bid? Anyone higher?

Ma'am?

So, 40 thousand going once.

- Ma'am? - 40 thousand.

40 from the gentleman.

And 40, going once.

40, twice.

40, three times, sold!

Do we know each other?

Not at all. Let go.

I had a buyer.

But they backed out.

You forced me to raise my bid.

And I think it was deliberate.

- Why? - I don't understand you.

Because of you, I lost a ton of money.

You owe me an explanation.

You didn't even want the book, did you?

No.

But you did.

How did you know?

I didn't. Just a feeling.

Aurora... No!

- Let me go! - No, no, don't run away.

You've grown into quite the beauty.

Hanging around auctions now?

Let go, you're hurting me!

- Now you're all red! - Don't be a baby.

What do you do now,

aside from trying to scam me?

Selling clothes.

Really?

You? What does your father say?

- Leave him out of this. - Sweetheart, I do what I want.

- So, what does he say? - Nothing.

And he's not my father.

Mum thought she'd die of COVID and confessed.

You're my father.

She's back in Costa Rica.

He took his own life; He drank bleach.

He's dead.

So, what about the painting?

They told me it was stolen.

- Really? - Yeah.

I'm not allowed to keep it, I'm not allowed to sell it.

That's it, end of story.

If it was stolen, that means it's worth money.

- How much? - What's the difference now?

Just tell us.

I don't know.

Learn to lie better.

So, how much?

A lot.

More specifically?

Come on!

- Spill it! - Ten, ten.

Ten?

Thousand?

Ten and three zeros?

It's already with us, right?

No, it's still with the guy.

You didn't take it?

I couldn't take it.

A signature is needed.

Give me a minute.

By the way, about Saint-Gratz, Bellanger said "yes."

- Excellent. - Yeah.

- My intern... - Aurora?

Is she reliable?

Why? Is everything okay?

Yes.

You recommended her,

and she clearly has a backstory...

Well, she's been through a lot.

Her father dealt in antique books.

- He had a lot of money. - Had?

- Not anymore? - Tough story.

A partner robbed him and then took his wife.

Then the tax office declared him bankrupt.

He's ruined.

I didn't know.

Boss?

I talked to New York.

The situation is unfavourable.

Excuse me?

The painting is stolen.

We demand a percentage.

They're talking about kidnapping and extortion.

- We're screwed. - Andre, please.

- Fine, they're scared. - That's better.

It's so typical of Americans,

especially our lawyers there.

Have they contacted the heirs?

The lawyers won't even go near it.

We'll handle it ourselves, not the first time.

You forget all of Wahlberg's heirs are Americans.

What do we do? Just let it go?

Could you shut up and let me think?

Marten.

Marten.

Your friend is here.

I need to get ready.

So...

- I'll go. - Bye, Sin.

What is it?

Nothing.

I couldn't sleep, so I came.

Why?

To see.

It's worth 10 million.

So what?

To understand.

Understand what?

Are you really going to give it up?

Look, I want to sleep, and I'm not ready for these talks.

Hey, don't talk to me like that, okay?

Listen, I didn't mean to, just...

Stop looking at it, you're just tormenting yourself.

Calm down.

I'm just looking.

Just forget about it, okay?

Did you see it from behind?

No, don't touch it. Don't touch it.

What's wrong with you? I can't even touch it?

No, don't touch it. You'll damage it.

I won't damage anything.

If you want us to stay friends, don't look at that painting.

Forget about it. Treat it like it's not even there, alright?

You've become such a jerk.

Stop it!

Thank you.

- Good afternoon. - Good afternoon.

Bob, let me introduce André Masson.

Bob Wahlberg.

Nice to meet you.

So, you found it? You're sure?

I'm not dreaming this.

No, Mr. Wahlberg, it's real.

And it's not a fake?

I would stake my life. It's genuine.

My father would be so happy.

He fasted every Monday, sitting on a stool,

in remembrance of his lost loved ones.

And I've always thought that he mourned his paintings as much as them.

Your father's painting was found by a young man,

a very young man.

He works at night.

He's a factory worker.

And he does everything to help his mother and his family.

- And his mother is... - I'm sorry, excuse me.

Hi, Ben.

Yeah, I just got in and we all just sat down...

Is this Dickens or Zola?

Simple truth.

So, are you his lawyer?

In France,

his American firm is handling the case.

And we were surprised you didn't choose New York for the sale.

I can explain that.

Please, help yourself.

Thank you, but I can't eat that.

Do you want something else?

No, I'm fine. I'm good.

As a matter of fact, we are currently in the month of Adar,

which is the month of justice and giving.

Foremost, in my mind, I want to be fair.

But I'm not alone in this.

That was my brother on the phone earlier.

And he pointed out that we are under no obligation to anyone.

Mr. Wahlberg, the young man we are talking about

is not trying to profit from this.

He knows nothing about art and...

As I said earlier, and as I told my brother,

the month of Adar is the month of giving.

So...

here is what I propose.

I am one of nine legal heirs.

Would your young man consider being the tenth?

On the ring road, our fourth meeting.

A waste of time.

It could've been done by mail.

This way is much nicer.

What time is our meeting?

You should know.

In Tyrol, right now?

Yes, yes, skiing.

Why Austria and not Switzerland?

For how long?

I'll give you her personal number.

Thank you very much, and sorry.

Couldn't be worse.

Next week I'm busy; I have an appointment about Hoffenburg.

I don't want to leave the painting there.

After so many years, a week won't change anything.

All these years, it hung there incognito, and now...

The Pitztal Glacier is right in front of me.

And the weather is wonderful.

Couldn't your vacation wait?

I'm not your servant, André.

I've had two hard years.

I need this.

What do the heirs say?

They agree that we proceed with the sale.

And my client?

Their offer is 10% of the sale.

Hello? Hello?

Sorry.

Potato in my mouth. Sounds tempting.

Excellent.

We'll send the contracts, and you

inform Marten that we'll pick up the painting.

Right now?

We need to restore it,

insure it, and then start its promotion.

Sorry, what?

A promotional tour.

We need to market the piece so major investors will take interest.

Got it.

Goodbye.

Goodbye.

Did you see the day shift?

They're short by five pallet boxes each time.

Not like us.

Well, the guys are just tired.

- They're messing up. - Yeah?

And we meet our targets.

That's true.

But we're the new ones here.

And they've been here a long time.

Marten.

What do you want?

Sorry about yesterday.

Those are empty words.

I'm not talking to you.

Not to me? He's not talking to me?

Wait, I'll show you who you're talking to.

I'm talking to Marten.

Who are you even saying this to?

- I'm talking to you. - What's your problem, anyway?

What do you want? Hold on, we're just talking.

What do you want?

What do you need?

- Maybe calm him down? - Do you want trouble?

Calm down, Paco, I'm talking calmly here.

He didn't come to me.

- Where are you going? - To catch the bus.

Go to hell, Paco.

I don't give a damn about you.

Apologise to him too.

Alright, I will.

Aren't you tired of him kissing your ass?

Did you come to apologise or to trash-talk?

Alright, I get it.

- Alright, enough. - Hey, wait. Paco, stop.

Stop it. Where are you going?

Enough, it's okay now. Let's go.

You apologise.

You first.

Alright, sorry.

To him.

To him?

He started it.

You're so annoying, seriously.

The movers came this morning.

They took so long to take it down and pack it, as if it were

a terminally ill patient.

It feels empty without it.

You can tell, right?

Well, how is it?

It's...

Sir?

I'm here for my daughter.

You owe me 89 euros.

- What's this? - A DNA test.

You thought he wouldn't call me?

- He did. - He's a liar.

He deceived you.

You, of all people, shouldn't call anyone a liar, dear.

- Dad! - Am I still your father?

Glad to hear that.

And apparently, I'm still alive.

For now, at least.

These people are witnesses.

Aurora.

A word.

I can't.

No, you can. Let's go.

Please, close the door.

What's with your father?

He needs surgery.

Have a seat.

Please, sit down.

Your personal life doesn't matter,

as long as it doesn't affect your work.

He's sick.

The need for surgery

doesn't drive one crazy.

He called you a liar.

Could you explain why?

I can't.

Xonrupt-Longemer.

What?

It's a place

where I was born.

Do you know where it is?

No one knows.

Moving to Paris

from Xonrupt-Longemer

in a suit that gives away your...

Why should I care?

Sometimes here,

during work,

I remember those spoiled kids

from school in Xonrupt-Longemer,

who always humiliated me.

It's silly, but here, now,

it motivates me.

You didn't invent this shame, Aurora.

Shame?

I'm not ashamed.

I don't give a damn about your stories.

Or your fancy suits.

You're obsessed

with your cars, ties, and watches.

A pretentious jerk who revels in his power over me.

But that's over. I quit.

- That's not your call. - Yes, it is!

- Stop right there, Aurora! - Don't come near me!

Or I'll take you to court. And ruin your life.

You've lost your mind.

You have no idea how much I hate you.

Are we really expecting Samson Körner?

From the Körner Foundation?

I thought he was dead.

He came back to life when he heard we found an Egon Schiele.

I want champagne.

Yes.

You're glowing.

I'm in love.

Congratulations.

You look a bit on edge.

Did your intern really quit?

Yes.

Yes. She walked out on her own.

And that's fine.

She's completely crazy.

- Welcome, Mr. Körner. - Good afternoon.

- Good afternoon. - Hello.

Right this way.

Well.

We are very proud of this discovery.

I think it can even be called a miracle.

This Egon Schiele work

was considered lost in the chaos of World War II for all these years.

And in 1939

it effectively vanished along with the entire collection of its owner.

I'm disappointed.

Very disappointed.

This is not what I expected.

The damage is worse than I thought.

This is not a first-rate piece.

It's a very decorative painting.

- Hello. - This is Egerman.

How are you, André?

Not great.

And you?

I'm fine, thank you.

Does the name Rochebourg ring a bell?

The French lawyer for the Wahlberg family.

What does he want?

He contacted me and was very blunt.

He said the painting would be hard to sell,

and advised against going to auction.

That's outrageous.

He made a private offer,

8 million, and said we should accept it.

8 million is...

That's nonsense. What's he talking about?

I told him we'd only sell through you.

You're wonderful.

It's true.

I'll call him, and then you.

Keep me updated.

- Have a good evening. - Thank you.

This is Maître Rochebourg.

Unfortunately, I'm unable to take your call at the moment.

Please leave a message.

- Yes? - We have a problem.

I'm not alone right now.

When can we talk?

I'm not alone, but I'm still in Paris.

- Are you home? - Yes.

I'll be there in an hour.

Alright, thank you.

Can I see?

How much did you drink?

Not much.

How much?

Four.

Five small ones.

But I ate.

So you could say it was three.

The lawyer didn't call back?

No.

I didn't leave a message.

I don't want

to seem desperate.

Do you want one?

Single malt.

Peaty.

I prefer a bath.

Back to personal life?

Wonderful!

It's all very complicated.

Call Wahlberg.

Ask who made the offer.

It couldn't have been done behind Rochebour's back.

He'll cite confidentiality of information.

Eight million!

It's not happening.

The decision is ours.

By ten percent.

Yes, but we decide how to sell it.

It's too early in New York.

I won't call him.

- Why not? - Just because.

You've become a coward!

Mr. Masson, this painting, by right, belongs to our family.

And we have the right to do with it as we see fit.

Can I ask you, who made you this pathetic offer?

- You find it pathetic? - Ridiculous, scandalous, yes.

Look, I understand that it is not in your interest

to let the painting slip through your fingers.

But I do not want to risk being left high and dry.

Bob, there is no chance of that.

The market for Egon Schiele has never been so strong. You know that.

I would stake my reputation and Scotty's reputation too.

Mr. Masson, I have an appointment.

We'll talk later. Thank you. Goodbye.

Coffee?

You'll feel sick.

So be it. I'm already dead anyway.

Stop whining and stop drinking.

At least they warned us.

You should thank Egerman.

I like her more and more.

Then tell her. She's lonely, and so are you.

No, she's not my type.

Shall I put you to bed?

No.

I'm fine.

Yes?

Good evening.

Is Mr. Masson here?

He's unwell. What's the matter?

I wanted to...

Maybe you'd like to take off your coat?

No.

- I'll go. - Wait!

He's upstairs.

Nice jacket.

Drouot.

150.

So, you're Aurora.

- They say you lie. - No, it's true.

150 euros.

- And who are you? - Me?

His ex-wife.

But also a colleague.

And also a friend.

Probably the only one.

Do you want to talk to him?

He's not in any state, but...

if it's about work, I can pass a message.

It's not about work.

Just a minute.

Come along.

He'll be a while.

Drinks when he's lonely, which is almost always.

A vicious cycle.

But you're with him?

Not in recent years.

I just took a bath here.

It helps me keep myself together.

Do you have a specific matter to discuss with him?

That's none of your business.

I know, but maybe I can help.

I said things to him I didn't really mean.

And I want to explain.

Though it's probably too late.

Why does everyone think everything is too late?

It's never too late.

You're younger than I thought.

You're so young.

And so?

Nothing.

- I have to go. - So do I.

No, stay, he needs this.

Why?

Want to know?

Sit down.

I made coffee.

What are you doing here...

Sleeping or listening to me snore?

Not sleeping, I was thinking.

So, I snored.

It's not really about you.

It's about what happened.

Fine. Between us?

There was nothing between us.

Nothing happened?

So, insulting me and threatening me with court

is nothing to you?

Then what is something?

I was just annoyed by your tone.

Let's forget it?

I was talking about the painting just now.

Did Bertina bring you in on this?

This is over.

I don't think so.

I have more experience,

so I know when I've missed my chance.

You don't know anything.

What do you think you know

with a month's work experience?

And why should I believe

a self-proclaimed liar?

Fine.

I came to help,

but you can keep wallowing in your patriarchal logic,

and I'll go and get some sleep.

- No, it's not like that. - Oh, sure, sure.

Code A5588.

Excuse me.

I'm ready to listen to

your thoughts.

Would you like a coffee?

No, I've already had five.

And I shaved.

So, what's going on with you?

I want to call Wahlberg.

No, Aurora, he won't pick up.

Then you call him.

And say what?

I was going to write it down for you.

Actually, I wrote it down.

I don't know if you deserve it.

Mr. Walberg, André Masson speaking.

I'm sorry to wake you up, but I need to speak with you.

It's very important, important for you.

I believe we said all that needed saying.

No, Bob, far from it.

I have just discovered you have been misled.

You are going to be cheated.

What and who are you talking about?

I'm talking about Mr. Samson Körner.

What exactly do you know?

The offer, the eight million offer to buy this painting comes from him, right?

Indeed, Mr. Körner has expressed his interest to us, but...

And your French lawyer, Mr. Rochebourg, isn't paid by you, is he?

No.

He's on commission.

- And I don't go through him for... - Okay, Bob, two things.

Firstly, Mr. Körner of the Körner Foundation,

of the Körner Museum, is taking you for a ride.

And secondly, Mr. Rochebourg

is the one who told you the painting wouldn't bring a good price.

Right?

How do you know?

He came to an agreement with Mr. Körner

and tried to make a deal with our lawyer to get a percentage.

I can email you now a complete explanation.

I'd appreciate that.

Thank you.

How did you know?

They set up my dad the same way.

It's a classic move.

Undermine the value to buy it cheap.

How didn't I realise?

And Bertina. But she's in love.

It clouds her judgement.

Thanks.

Your father is a kind man.

Did you talk to him?

No.

Is everything okay?

We'll manage.

I think it's time for you to go.

Careful, you're choking me.

That's because you're squirming.

Stand still.

There.

Much better now.

I look like a penguin.

You look handsome.

No, it's annoying. I can't stand it.

It's my dad's tie.

It's ugly. Take it off.

- Hi. How are you? - Hi.

- Good, and you? - Same here.

Did you manage to take a day off?

Yeah, I still had some vacation days left.

Did you tell your friends?

No, I didn't.

Really? Why?

It's none of their business.

- He's nervous... - No, Mum, I'm not.

Maybe you could play the guitar for me?

- No, that's not necessary. - He plays beautifully.

- "La Corrida" by Cabrel. - Stop it.

For Mademoiselle Egerman.

- Suzanne. - For Suzanne.

Is it really necessary for me to go?

Paris is beautiful; You'll like it.

With a guide like Suzanne...

That's enough, Mum. Stop hovering over me.

Are you afraid she'll hold your hand?

He's scared of girls.

Say one more word, and I'll...

Play something of your choice.

Martin?

Martin!

- Your two keys. - Thank you.

You're welcome.

- Good afternoon. - Good afternoon.

Welcome to the Pullman Hotel.

- Thank you. - Thank you.

Yes, it's me. Yes, everything went well.

He's very nice. A bit stiff because he's shy.

I'm in room 1972.

I need to take a shower. I feel sweaty.

Yes, it bothers me.

- You smell nice... - Bath gel.

Let's go, Martin.

And now, as the highlight of this historic auction,

allow me to present to you.

Egon Schiele's painting, "Sunflowers",

whose provenance is already the stuff of legend.

And we will start with the sum

of 8 million euros.

8 million.

Who will bid 8 million?

We have a bid from Quitterie by phone.

9 million here.

Against you, Elise, 9 million with Quitterie.

10 million and 11 with Stéphane.

12 with Benoît.

And Samantha, 13 million.

13 million.

14 from Elise.

15 million euros!

16 million!

And 18 million euros!

Bid is at 18 million.

18 million euros!

The bid is 18, and 21 million from Samantha.

Beating your bid, Benoît.

22 million!

23!

23 again.

And 23 million going once...

24! 24, Samantha?

Bidding between your clients.

Bid is at 24 million.

25 million with Samantha's client.

25 million.

25, Benoît.

So, the bid is at 25 million.

Sold for 25 million.

Egon Schiele's painting to client 120.

- Incredible. - Yes.

- It will go down in history! - Have you seen Martin?

Wasn't he with you?

No, he just disappeared, and I don't know where he is.

Check the restrooms.

Winning 2 million can make anyone feel faint.

I'll go check.

Magnificent.

That was something.

Thank you.

I haven't seen Henri.

That's what I wanted to talk about.

Do you have a moment?

Yes, we're done.

I wanted to tell you earlier.

I've reorganised the department.

Henri is leaving.

Francis will take your role as manager,

and you'll become the chairman.

I hope you're happy now?

Fantastic, Hervé.

Excuse me.

Of course.

You conducted like a maestro.

It was beautiful.

Thank you.

I'm thinking of leaving.

Sorry?

I'm quitting.

After the auction of the century,

you're talking about quitting? Are you crazy?

Hervé made me chairman.

That's practically a president!

But I'm not interested.

Sitting in an office all my life...

That's not for me.

He restructures my entire department behind my back.

Then tells me as if it's good news.

And he doesn't even realise it's disrespectful.

Think about it, though.

He fired Henri.

He can fire me at any moment, too,

if he wants.

We all have our limits.

I know people.

And so do you.

Let's go independent.

What do you think?

Martin, it's me again.

Call me back. Where have you gone?

This is such a moment...

We want to share it with you.

Martin.

Do you need a tissue?

I'll take you to the hotel.

Yes?

In five minutes.

Alright.

Let's go. Come on.

- Can I try? - Go ahead.

Tasty.

Sorry, we were starving.

It's okay.

I was held up by the Wahlbergs; they're all here.

What, the whole family?

They're upstairs, in a private room.

Martin, they want to meet you.

Me?

Yes, you.

You don't mind?

No, it's fine.

But eat first.

Are you coming?

Gladly.

I'll pass; I'm exhausted.

Leave it to me.

Thank you.

About what we discussed, the answer is yes.

Mr. Wahlberg?

Mr. Martin Keller.

Martin, it's a pleasure to meet you.

Likewise.

- Hi. - Hi.

Yes.

What are you drinking?

- What's it called again? - Moscow Mule.

Moscow Mule.

Can I try it?

- Sure, please. - I'll just take a sniff.

I'll have the same.

It's very good.

Happy Birthday.

My favourites.

- Really? - Thank you.

I have something for you.

A lady in debt is selling it.

It's been in her family for 150 years.

If it's the real deal,

then it's an incredible find.

No reproductions exist,

but I found a caricature of this painting

in a satirical newspaper of the time, "Charivari."

Yes.

And the lady blushed when she told me its story.

Why is that?

Well, her great-grandmother owned a salon.

You know, and the artist lived nearby.

And the painting was given to her

in exchange for services.

A prostitute.

A courtesan, a lady of the Demi-monde.

In essence, a whore.

The disgrace of this respectable family.

- Will you send it to me? - Sure.

Done.

Dad!

- How are you? - And you?

I'm good.

- Hello. - Good evening.

Here, this is for you.

Oh, really?

So, I'm going to smell good for eternity.

- Let me swap them for you. - No, no, don't.

- Are you sure? - I love them.

Excuse me, I have a call.

Sorry.

- It's so cold outside. - Hi.

I was starting to worry.

Apologies.

Your table is ready.

- This way, please. - Alright.

Oh, almost forgot.

It was delivered to the office.

Dear Mr. Masson,

I bought an electric guitar,

and also a house for my mother, and that's all.

I still work the night shift at the factory

so my friends won't find out and my life won't change.

But I want to thank you for what you did for me

and wish you a Merry Christmas.

Martin Keller.