Original subtitles

Just a Question of Love...

- Haven't you seen Marine ? - No, we've not seen her.

Why ? Has she disappeared ?

No, I'm here!

Stop!

Stop it, you're making me dizzy.

That's what men are for, honey. To make our heads spin.

Very clever.

You see, Didier ? You can have fun with Marine.

Pack it in, mom. Your son-in-law really wanted a son.

Oh yeah ? Even still, today ?

There are times when I feel a bit isolated amongst all these women.

It's not exactly too late!

Making them is one thing, but you also have to raise them!

- I should have married Laurent. - That's right.

He'll be a wonderful dad!

Careful, you'll burn yourself.

- I'm only kidding mum. - What a joker!

Carve the lamb.

No, Jeanne!

Leave that, we'll do it. Join the others in the garden.

You're such angels.

It's true we're angels, eh Lolo ?!

And just like angels, we're not quite sure about their sex.

Knock it off with the silly stuff!

Cool, your uncle saw us.

Carole seems great, she's got character.

She'll shake your son up a bit, eh ?!

When did they meet ?

At college in September.

She's very independent.

Her parents are civil servants working abroad,

she came back to France after her baccalaureate.

I'm happy for you.

We were afraid Laurent would never bring a girl home either.

He was always odd. Like choosing agricultural college!

Don't complain, at least gardener is a trade!

It's as good as being a pharmacist.

He'll just care for plants instead of people.

But, what kind of future are you talking about ?

Couldn't get my hands on the leg of lamb...

so I've replaced it with the neighbour's cat, but you can do something...

I hate cats!

and along with it, we have the living room flowers.

The living room flowers...

How did she come up with that ?

- I'll do it. - Thought you were liberated!

And you, do you enjoy playing the perfect son ?

Yeah, it's my favourite role

especially in a family that's so perfect.

Look at them.

Perfect killers in a perfect world.

Impossible to find out where they hid the corpse.

Laurent, please.

Oh yes, let's just shut up.

That's the reason that Marc is dead.

Stop it, that's not true!

Throwing him out hardly helped him!

Put yourself in our parents shoes.

Oh no, thank you!

That would be too revolting.

That's it, hate your family.

Oh no. Not even that.

But it would be so much easier if I never saw them again.

She's seeing Richard, the Psychologist.

I urged her to go after Marc's death. I don't understand any more.

She was the one who refused to see Marc anymore.

And then afterwards...

She held it against me, saying she did that to keep me happy.

Jeanne and I wondered what we'd have done in your position.

It's stupid. I'm a physiotherapist,

but the idea of two men

touching each other like that.

- Ugh! It disgusts me! - Yeah

Marine!

Come and see!

Come on, don't argue.

And for your own son to do that...

When it happens, he's no longer your son.

Carole, I want to say something.

I was 38 by the time I got pregnant.

It was almost a miracle.

And Laurent gives me such joy.

But I think it's best to have children when you're younger.

Why are you telling me that ?

Because I know Laurent loves kids,

and so do you.

Even if you're still students... we're here for you.

I'm here for you.

Don't drive too fast Carole. Fresh air can be tiring.

I forgot, soap!

- Do you still have some ? - Yes yes, Jeanne. Thank you!

How's college ?

It's going ok, but I can't repeat a year so it's all new stuff.

- You know without a diploma... - I know what I'm doing!

Since his cousin died, I think Laurent's a bit angry at us.

What did he think we were supposed to do, eh ?

Let Marc stay with us ?

Shit!

Did you hear how the words "agricultural college” stuck in the old man's gob ?

For him, it's too shameful, the pharmacist's kid becoming a peasant!

Aren't you exaggerating a bit ?

You want it to piss him off. He just wants you to have a diploma.

No, no! I promise you, you don't know what he's like!

He cares far too much about what other people might think.

It's like my uncle. "With a business..."

"... today, you have to be careful!”

Bet we'll do it in 2 hours ?

You're on!

If my dad was a pharmacist,

I wouldn't be emptying garbage cans!

The price of my independence!

The price of your silence!

Don't play the future orphan.

Your parents aren't stupid.

If you told them, they wouldn't throw you out of the door.

Don't be so sure, eh!

Laurent, come and see!

See what ?

Come on!

Oh no! I'm really not interested in your bustier tops!

No. Look!

The sheets your mom gave us.

Oh! These aren't bad!

Now, you see, we're obligated...!

We not only have to sleep together, but sleep together.

It's fine.

Look! I've got a different solution...

We'll cut them in half.

Don't count on me to hem them!

Have I ever asked you to hem anything ?

I'm annoyed that your mum gave me her sheets.

Yeah why ?

She's convinced herself we're together, so...

Yes, but we're not.

And she doesn't know that.

But you do.

Carole...

Would you like to sleep with a woman ?

Well there you are!

It's just the same for me...

and it's not for want of trying, eh ?!

Anyway, it's too late for us.

You're like my sister.

Yes, he's here.

I'll just pass you to him...

yep ?

Oh it's you!

errr.. yeah!

No no, that's ok!

No problem. I'm coming.

I'm off out.

Why don't you tell me the truth ?

Is he your boyfriend ?

One, I don't have a boyfriend.

Two, I wish I did.

And three, he's just a friend.

And you spend your nights with him.

And yeah!

These things can happen.

You really think I'm stupid!

I'm not your mother!

It's always the same guy who calls.

It's Alain, Marc's boyfriend.

You fool!

Why didn't you tell me ?

See ? That's something really annoying about you.

You never want to share anything.

I'm not talking to you about ass here!

I already share your life - that's not bad, eh ?

- Bastard! - Bitch!

Woah! Hold on! Don't you think you've drunk enough ?

Here to pass judgement ?

I came here to see you.

I hate Sunday nights.

I hate this empty restaurant.

Marc always sat there.

If you knew how I missed him!

It's strange thing, loving a man who's dead.

It's not like we're going anywhere else.

Yeah, you're right.

Pretending not to exist in someone's eyes.

They keep pretending as if Marc had never existed.

And you're surprised ?

When I called your uncle to say Marc had just days to live,

all he said was: "AIDS is justice for people like you."

I wasn't even given the time to tell him Marc had hepatitis.

Marc was stupid to tell them he was gay.

Why ? Because it's something to be ashamed of ?

I'm sorry. I didn't mean to say it like that.

It's true though that there was no point talking to them about it.

- Shit! - What's up ?

- See the guy in the suit ? - Yeah

- That's my father's accountant! - So, what's the problem ?

I don't want him to see me.

If he gives you away, he's giving himself away too.

I don't like it. Let's get out of here!

Nothing but fags in there anyway.

Fifteen days of selling newspapers.

Even over Easter weekend. I'm wiped out!

And the manageress constantly riding my ass to make sure I didn't rob the till.

- I couldn't find anything and I'm broke. - Six months and we'll be agricultural engineers!

and rich after inventing a tomato that will never go rotten.

Here's Carole and her chaperon.

Her capon you mean.

You saying that because you don't make him hard, eh ?

Ah! so you like the bearded guy now ?

Fuck! he is hot!

Think he's a new teacher ?

- Hi, Laurent. - Hi, Mathieu.

Carole... can I talk to you a moment ?

Why didn't you come the party last night ?

I got home late, I was worn out.

What did I do wrong ?

Hold on! I thought things were clear between us.

How do I need I speak to you, in hieroglyphics ?

There's something you haven't figured out yet...

is that I love to treat myself.

Damn! Surely it's not true that since that fag moved in with you...

you've been sleeping together! That's not possible!

You're really so stupid.

I can't be fucked to deal with such a total idiot.

You need to know the soil's level of acidity

before deciding what plants will work.

How can you find that out ?

Laurent ?

Send it to the lab for analysis.

Saves us the bother.

Lolo, calm down!

Just using your nose, can you tell us what will work?

We're waiting, poet!

Earthworm, raise your army from the ground

Take your own to the promised land

You are the salt of the earth

And go fuck yourself!

Earthworms don't make things grow.

But if you keep fucking me about you'll get plenty of time to contemplate them!

from the ground

Laurent! This is your last chance.

If you fail this year, it's over.

This last year you've been constantly setting yourself up to fail.

Can you tell me what's the point of doing that ?

This is bullshit! You're not a kid any more.

You don't want me to call your parents!

Fine...

I was able to find you an internship with someone...

working the same specialisation that you've chosen.

I hope you're interested...

because training courses like this...

...are in incredibly short supply.

Oh! It's worse than military service.

Yeah, but don't forget the army's an enormous reserve full of men!

No, but I didn't know about these stupid hours

7:30 a.m.?? I didn't do 2 years of college to sell salad!

Well, if you keep on, you'll be selling your whole life. Eh?

Oh thank you! That's very encouraging!

Ok, well I'll call you once I know what time I'll finish...

If you'd like to come and pick me up.

Well, if I can. Yeah. Maybe!

Oh come on! Be nice!

Hi. You're Laurent Mouries?

Cédric Martin. Hope it wasn't too early for you.

Oh, no, no.... not at all, no.

Great! I'll show you around then we can get to work.

OK.

You came like this?

Well, yeah...?

You don't have any work clothes ?

No. Why, are there cows to milk or something like that ?

Cows... no... but manure... yes, some.

Come in.

That's my den.

Ah well apparently you weren't expecting this!

What do you do here?

Bermand didn't tell you anything ?

Well yeah, he said I'd be doing work training at a nursery.

Yes, but I don't only run a nursery, I'm also a researcher.

Oh yes ?

In principle, you shouldn't...

In principle I should travel to the instutute to work every day, but I don't.

Is that possible ?

I'm living proof.

Fine, well to get things organised, this is what I propose...

You'll help me with the work in the garden,

and help me with my research here.

That work for you?

I have a choice ?

Well yes! of course you have a choice!

Well, listen... I can see the farming side pisses you off. Eh ?

So listen...

I need you to get my grant, you need me for your diploma.

So if all that bothers you...

then take a two month holiday and I'll write you a good Internship Report for the school.

Ok with you ?

Why are you talking to me like that ? Just what did Bermand tell you ?

How you're never happy,

and apart from poetry, nothing interests you.

Well unlucky, because poetry pisses me off.

And I'm far too busy to worry about students' psychological problems.

Cédric are you there ?

Yes, I'm here.

You left everything open! We could have been robbed!

No, that was my fault.

Laurent, this is my mother Emma. Our new internee.

I hope you'll be happy with us here.

So listen, finally...

I agree to two months holiday.

You can send the internship report to the school.

Goodbye Madame.

What happened ?

Nothing.

Huh! But what did you say to the kid ?

I tried to put him at ease.

Oh yeah ? Apparently you suceeded.

Yep!

And now ?

Now what ?

What are you going to do for your forced two months holiday ?

What I like doing best... nothing.

Well Laurent, I'm sick of you,

...especially when you're playing the proud, spoiled brat.

The guy just told you the truth.

And he even gave you a choice, and you stormed off without even giving it a chance.

Spoiled brat? He didn't give me a chance!

It's you who never gives yourself a chance.

Oh, just drop it will you ?

Since Marc's death you've had everything mixed up.

No. Even before his parents kicked him out

So people will understand who you are, only if all your studies are up in the air ?

They will never understand if you don't tell them. Never!

Don't tell them if you don't want to

and you live without them, and you live like shit.

That's rich coming from you!

For me, it's not the same.

I'm unhappy because Marc's not here any more.

You, because you carry on like you're some kind of victim.

Being gay's not a curse! Shit! Don't make it a reason to destroy yourself.

You're not going to start sulking now are you ?

I'd even rather you told me a poem.

And you know how much that pisses me off!

We do this every day at the same time.

And automatic sprinklers don't exist ?

Yeah, of course they exist but they're really pricey. You with me?

Would it bother you if we ditch formal titles ?

No, no... ouch!

Excuse me.

Why didn't...

Howcome you didn't ask why I came back ?

It's none of my business.

Could you pass me the plants please ?

Behind you.

Shit! Sorry...

It's my fault.

Undoubtedly...

It's nothing.

Sorry.

Hello ?

Hello, yes, yes.

Yes, that's right. Here.

Yes

Yes, I'll let him know.

Laurent, your dad's had an accident, he's in the hospital.

What happened ?

Laurent ?!

The shop shutters got stuck again.

He got on a stool to fix them, and...

he lost his balance.

He fell and his head hit the sidewalk.

No no. Wait there. I'll come and get you.

Everything's fine, not even a concussion.

Please... I'm not dead yet!

Shit, I was scared!

Your mother too ?

It's a strange experience,

going to the other side then coming back.

Come on...

It's fine. Eh ?

The ambulance is here.

Sure you don't want me to come with you?

No, Georges is here.

And you have your internship.

I'll be fine.

Mr Mouries?

Hello! how are you doing ?

I should be asking you!

yeah, yeah, we're ok.

We're just waiting for my father who had a slight accident,

but it's nothing serious.

- Ah Good! Well Bye! - Bye!

That's the nurse who looked after Marc

right to the end.

Laurent...

Marc isn't dead because of us.

You could have come to see him.

When you're like Marc, it's better to stay silent.

If he hadn't said anything, there would've been nothing to react to

and no one would have rejected him.

He wasn't a monster.

When you have children, you'll understand too.

I hate this hotel. Let's go!

The mother, closing his workbook, left satisfied and proud

without seeing in the blue eyes and knotted forehead

of her child, his soul delivered to repugnance.

On strike?

No, I was listening to you.

Want to spend all night here ?

Boss, we don't get a union break ?

Come on.

Thanks.

What, do I scare you ?

Only death scares me.

Laurent, you have to help me.

To do what?

I think it would be best if we split up.

I'm going to look for an apartment.

With Mathieu ?

No, Mathieu... still has a way to go.

No, it's for me.

Because I prefer guys ?

Yeah.

I'm sorry, but look at us.

It makes no sense.

It's not just your parents who think we're screwing.

Sometimes I start believing it too.

I don't want to become a fag hag who runs when a guy comes near.

Shit!

You're right, I don't want you suffering because of me.

I know Lolo. You don't like making those you love suffer.

Nor do I.

But I need to be a bit selfish for once.

In simple terms, the idea is to select the genes

which will allow the plants

to better resist pollutants.

If you find it you'll make a fortune!

Absolutely not.

I work with other researchers, and I'm a government employee.

Like you will be soon.

So vegetables mean that much to you?

Think it's stupid to spend your nights saving carrots ?

No, not if it makes you happy...

Yeah.

And you... what makes you happy?

Have you seen what time it is ? You should stop now!

And you... you're eating with me.

Otherwise I know he'll go hungry.

Your mom as tyrannical as mine ?

Wanting the best for our children makes us tyrants ?

Why don't you eat with us tonight ?

You've been here two weeks and I haven't invited you.

And his girlfriend ?

She can come too!

I'm sure they'd rather be alone.

No, no no. Actually I can stay. She can't collect me tonight anyway.

I just need to be at my job at 9, please.

What work ?

I do cleaning work in the industrial park offices.

That can't pay much.

Enough to live on.

Your parents can't help you ?

Why would they ?

I'd rather be independent.

Of course not! I'm not pissed off. We're still working, that's all.

Yeah

He reminds me of you with his talk about not letting his parents help him.

It's not the same situation.

Oh yeah ?

And you know that ?

Listen, don't worry about it. I'll get the bus.

Cheese?

No, thank you, not for me.

No, thank you.

Oh you're right, it's disgusting, it's too old.

Emma...

Not in front of guests.

She's lousy at pretending.

May I smoke ?

No.

If you want to destroy your health, don't do it front of me.

Told you she's lousy at pretending.

But...

I don't understand. If it's so much trouble,

why keep the nursery ?

Ah... when Cédric decides something...

It was my dad who built it all.

And... selling it would be like burying him again.

But at what price ?

I'm not worried about myself, but you don't have a life anymore.

Is that why your lab's here ?

I said it was either that or I quit.

Fortunately they agreed.

My dad was a good man.

Hah, well...

what I just said was a bit stupid...

and, err...

My dad was someone who...

I'll try again...

even if we didn't always understand each other.

We always understand people better after they're gone.

Fascinating, our stories eh ?!

No no, it's not that. It's just I need to get to my job.

I'll take you.

It's ok ? You're not too upset ?

No, no, I still have time.

I've even have time for a cigarette.

Like one of mine, for instance ?

Just like one of yours!

Here.

Sorry.

Fuck!

Hey Lolo, what's wrong ? Is it because of me ?

You're dreaming! There's more going on in my life than you!

Ah good my dear. Do I know him?

A nice heterosexual, as usual!

Oh Shit!

Neither of us have any luck eh?

Some guys you fuck, like Mathieu... Or at least, we ought to fuck.

Then there are guys you love.

And you... you're a guy to love.

That's cool.

Want a drink?

Why just one drink?

Laurent!

I thought you told me everything.

When I know everything I do. But this...

I kept telling myself you'd have to walk home

and as I had nothing to do...

ah yeah, no, no, but Carole has a car and...

Sorry, I'm an idiot.

No, no, but, wait! You'll wait? ok ?

Carole!

Would it bother you if there are three of us ?

Would it bother you if it's just the two of you?

excuse me... I'm Sorry... I'm Cédric.

Er... may I invite you both for a drink ?

For me, tonight's not possible... I've got an important meeting.

Laurent will explain.... but...

another time, would be lovely, yes.

Be careful, because he's gorgeous, he's really nice

and he's as queer as a three-dollar bill.

Bye!

Have fun!

are you cold ?

Fuck yeah, I'm freezing my balls off!

It's like minus 20 in here!

It's the lab.

Yep

Recherche oblige...

Want me to find you a blanket ?

I'll be fine.

A hot water bottle ?

I'm OK.

Sure ?

You weren't worried I'd smack you in the mouth in the car ?

There wasn't much danger of that, eh ?!

Oh yeah ?

Only a fag would still be living with his mom at your age.

You're a real prick.

Did you work all night again ?

Shit!

Move, your mom's here!

Your mother's here!

Excuse me.

Sometimes you should remember to lock the door!

You'd just break it down.

I'll wait for you coming for breakfast.

Hey!

Eh?

Aren't you going to react ?

What is it ? You see the Virgin Mary?

Listen stupid, your mother was here!

So what ?

So what ? Like... nothing...? It's normal.

Umm

I don't talk to guys who don't say hello to me in the morning.

You could have warned me.

Ok, I'm sorry, alright ?

Besides it's Laurent who's the most embarrassed.

Does he have tea ?

No, coffee, like me.

Be right back.

Cédric says you take coffee.

Yes, please.

Here! Grab a seat.

Go ahead... help yourself.

There's butter and jam...

which I don't like.

You don't dare look at me ?

Look at me, Laurent.

I'll lay it on the table.

Eleven years ago,

at Cédric's father's funeral,

We were there, Cédric and I, and he said to me:

"Mom, I prefer boys."

And then he added a terrible phrase. He said:

"Take it or leave it."

I'd just lost my husband.

He was no saint, but I loved him.

I wasn't ready to lose both my husband and my son.

So I accepted it.

It took a long time, and it was difficult.

I'm telling you this because you've no need to be afraid of me.

Cédric has taught me a lot. He taught me to love

and he taught me to accept. To accept that...

I'm starving!

- I changed the marker. - Thanks.

Nothing.

Why do you bother? It'll never work!

Yeah alright, but who's the researcher here ? You or me ?

A researcher, who the more he looks, the less he finds!

Little intern!

Loser!

So you think that's funny ?

yeah ?

Bastard!

Asshole!

No, No, No! have mercy!

Oh you motherfucker!

Do you remember our ecstasy of old ?

Why do you want me to remember it ?

Your heart, does it still race only at the sound of my name ?

Do you always see my soul in dreams ?

No.

You don't believe in love stories ?

You know, with the experience I've had...

apart from stories about fucking...

And what do you believe?

Have you ever been in love ?

Yes.

But life as a couple means lying, and I can't do that.

Too much of a scientist.

Yeah, no doubt.

Damn!

I see how it is now.

If you're afraid, you can leave.

I'm not allowed to stay ?

What was the first verse again ?

Memory like a goldfish!

Do you remember our ecstasy of old ?

Are you coming?

Eh well, your cooking is really good, that was almost edible.

Living proof you can be gay and a rubbish cook.

Good thing you've got your poetry.

And agronomy.

Ah yeah, well, excuse me...

but your marks for the year haven't been any better than for your cooking.

Thank you.

Why did you completely disconnect from everything ?

Well listen... I discovered women on one side, sex on the other. It screwed me up.

You weren't an early starter.

I've caught up ok since though, eh ?

And this intense love of poetry, where does that come from ?

You're taking the piss ?

uh-huh

Oof! I don't know, probably school.

You didn't like poetry ?

In all honesty ?

Well I love it.

When you're all alone in a remote little place like Walincourt,

you've fuck all else to do, with a face full of questions

and that the kind of thing, it's what it's made for.

Uh-huh

Do your parents know you prefer guys ?

They don't, but I don't see what difference it makes.

Ring the doorbell.

Good evening, Carole.

We wanted to surprise you.

Laurent isn't here.

You see ? We really should have called.

You haven't eaten?

We're not staying.

Pharmaceutical conference... cocktails, concert and a nice hotel.

We're only here for one night.

Would you like to come in ?

We don't want to bother you...

We'd love to see how you're fixed up.

Excuse us.

This is the closet...

and here you have the living room...

and the bedroom.

It's perfect for two.

Especially our lovebirds.

It's a real shame. If Laurent had known...

Will he be back soon ?

I don't know.

You haven't had a fight!

Oh no. Not at all.

He's with a friend from college.

Hello?

Yes.

Just a moment.

Laurent!

It's for you.

Who is it?

Carole.

You're sexy like that.

Hey you! Give us some alone time eh ?!

No !?

Shit!

When are they leaving ?

I'll be right there!

Shit, my parents just turned up my place! Fuck!

I need you to take me! ok ?

You'd have eaten better at the hotel.

That's what I told your mom.

Instead of bothering you.

Hello!

Carole! Hi Carole!

You shouldn't have got up on our behalf!

Did you have any more tests ?

No no, it not worth the bother.

I've just been a bit dazed for a while, that's all.

It was one of the best concerts I've ever seen.

You should go.

It's on for another week.

yeah, but Laurent hates classical music.

I know he only likes the things I hate.

Almond croissants!

I missed you.

Oh yeah ?

Not me!

Well?

Not too tiring playing the heterosexual with mom and dad ?

Can we plant this straight away ?

Oh yeah, absolutely.

Just protect it from the first frost.

Put some straw underneath,

some nice plastic around it and you'll be fine.

Show it some love and it'll survive anything.

I like this one best.

Very good! Then go for it!

Always go for the one you like most, that's what I always say!

I passed, damn it!

So...

You see, miracles can happen!

You're stupid my love!

Good, well how are you going to spend the summer ?

I'll need an internship.

That may not be easy.

You're horrible!

Want to stay?

What do I have to do so I can stay?

Well, all gone!

You respected the dosage ?

No, idiot, I just guessed.

Very good! Bravo! Keep it up.

Well, we'll get the results next Sunday.

You can write it up.

Actually I can't.

I won't be here next Sunday.

and you'll be where ?

Well, I'm gonna see my parents. I've not seen them in two months because of you.

Oh! Don't be upset!

You can drive me if you like.

It'll be a trip out!

Cédric, you could put this one on and tell them you're my sister!

You've nothing shorter ?

This is all I have.

Aaah!!

finally! the end of family weekends as the perfect daughter-in-law!

What are you doing tonight ?

Look out, whenever she sees a fag she tries to break him with her charms.

Not at all! It's because it's safe.

You don't like me much.

Yup. I detest you. Worse, I hate you.

Thanks to you, Laurent is happy

and he finally has the courage to love a guy.

Why courage ?

I'm ready.

Thanks.

No problem.

Making people happy is my passion in life.

Not with Carole. She jokes around but she's nuts about you.

I never hid anything from Carole.

Unlike your parents.

Sorry, but I don't see the connection.

When will you introduce me ?

Why ? D'you want to ask them for my hand ?

Hang on! What are you doing?

Pulling over.

You ruined my marriage proposal.

Cédric, don't bug me about my parents.

Why don't you talk to them ?

Is it so hard to tell the truth ?

I have my life, they have theirs, it's works well like that. That's all.

Like this, every time we get to Walincourt

I'll be required to not be laughing as we get to the pharmacy.

Cédric, you're really starting to piss me off.

If you want me to get out right now and hitchhike, then it's no problem for me.

Not too dangerous, me dropping you here ?

No, it's fine.

Should I pick you up ?

No, there's no point. I'll get a train.

I'll give you a bell when I get to Lille.

For maximum safety!

See you tomorrow night.

We're short by one box. You can collect it on Monday at 9 a.m..

but, will I have enough for today and tomorrow?

This box will last you a week, then Monday you'll have the other box.

Gentlemen...

So what do I pay for today ?

Nothing, your insurance covers it.

No flavoured condoms ?

That's not a big seller here.

and you also haven't got any anatomically profiled red ones with a reservoir ?

No, it's the purple ones that are anatomically profiled with a reservoir.

Monsieur, you're a connoisseur!

You need to be these days.

This is all the types we have.

But we have no dressing rooms.

That's a pity! that would have been very helpful.

We'll take these ones.

Good.

What about shampoo ?

We can't buy the whole shop! Eh?

That will be 14.90 Francs

The train wasn't too long ?

No, no. I slept.

That woman drives me crazy!

Goodbye ladies and gentlemen.

You've got admirers!

I don't know how they do it.

They don't breed

but there are more and more of them.

and soon

they're going to be allowed

to get married!

Is Carole well?

Yeah, yeah, she's fine. She's sorry, she wanted to come this weekend.

Courses on a weekend is too harsh!

Anyway, you look radiant.

Hello Monsieur...

Hang on, I'll serve him.

You would like...?

Some aspirin, please.

On the display shelf, Laurent. In front of you.

Is that all ?

Yes

That's 35 Francs, please.

Thank you!

Sorry, it took me forever to get a taxi, then we hit all the traffic jams.

Here, I'll do that.

No, no, no, it's fine.

I've finished, I've finished!

Go and see Cédric instead.

He's locked himself away in his little dump for the whole weekend.

Did you have a fight ?

No no!

Would you mind closing the door, please ?

Alright ? You enjoy that ? Your little trip in Walincourt...

the pharmacy ?

Ah! and there it is! What's up ? You were afraid ?

You really think I would ask for your hand ?

And you wanted me to do what...?

I present you... "Hello Mom, Dad... this is Cédric. We fuck each other."

Presenting me like that, at least everything would be crystal clear!

Listen! Don't play games with me.

Sorry ?

Of the two of us, I'm the one playing the most games. That's what you think ??

I really don't want to fight with you now.

Oh yeah ? Well, I don't want to either.

But you want me to spell it out ? I don't want to live a double life.

I really don't understand what you're telling me.

You really don't understand what I'm getting at ?

Well it's easy...

Here we're together,

but when you go and see your parents... when you...

Oh shut up! Listen to me! It's not my parents you're screwing! Ok ?

No it's not your parents I'm fucking,

But you see... I thought this was more than just sex.

I wanted something else.

but I was stupid, I got it wrong.

You know what ?

I don't want to stay with a guy who won't accept who he really is.

Bastard! Fuck!

Laurent!

Laurent!

You're driving me crazy!

Leave me alone!

It's annoying you that I'm trying to be happy ? Is that it?

It was because of shit like that, that my cousin is dead.

His parents threw him out like some piece of shit, and left him to die.

And my parents... they didn't lift a finger. They did nothing.

Like everything was just normal.

But anyway. You can't understand that.

and I can't be fucked with that.

What's this about ?

It's all absolutely true, sadly.

They threw him out onto the street like plague carrier.

It makes me so angry that people can still react like that.

When was it ?

Last year.

Right when you started fucking up in school.

Very good! Monsieur Freud!

I took Marc to Vietnam to help him forget.

and then something happened after all this crap...

his appetite disappeared...

Two months later...

Did Laurent tell you?

His parents think he died of AIDS.

You knew he was gay.

You're joking ? Marc and I were like two brothers.

We were two years apart.

He knew at 15. I was a bit later, around 18, I think.

Marc took it very badly. The two gay cousins...

He didn't find that funny!

He thought people would blame him, like it was contagious.

The bullshit we hear so often.

Just goes to show. He knew what the limits of his family were.

Me, I don't give a fuck what people think.

They could all be looking at us and I really don't give a fuck.

If you want to give me a kiss in front of everyone, go ahead.

Even in front of your dad's accountant ?

You can't hide your whole life, you know.

I know that day will come, but I want them to get to know you first

to know you're a good guy.

Not all fags wear stiletto heels!

and if Emma had rejected you for being gay, would you have put up with it ?

I didn't give her a choice.

But for me, no... if I just tell them point blank "I'm gay" I risk losing them.

and I don't want to.

Before my dad's accident I didn't realise how much they matter to me.

Hey, take this, it's for gardener's hands.

That's kind of you, but I'm not a gardener.

And neither is he.

Please forgive me, but I don't really understand

what your nursery owner actually does.

Applied research, Pierre.

Like Laurent wants to do.

Surely that's not too difficult to grasp, for a pharmacist.

In fact many of them are biologists trying to find out how plants combat pollutants.

On the one hand man is destroying nature, and on the other, he's trying to save it.

We're fortunate that there are people like him.

I don't know your nurseryman,

but he's running his father's business and that's good.

At least he's taught you to love your work.

Yeah it's true that it's going well.

Cool, well it would make me happy if you would meet him,

at least, if you're interested eh ?

Nothing easier.

Invite him here for a weekend.

No, no, forget about it...

Not on Saturdays... there's work...

So what?

He could could over for supper on Saturday night.

- He can even sleep over. -Yes

Invite him over for Marine's birthday.

It'll make for fresh face to the family, and...

it would make it easier to put up with the rest of them.

Eh, yes, if you don't know...

I mean... I just never imagined that...

You have to go through all that to become an engineer, but...

you know... putting my hands in the dirt isn't going to hurt.

Like even gardeners who clear up leaves in parks or gardens

are, in some fashion, helping maintain the balance of nature.

Or the imbalance of nature.

But even so, it's a massive workload, the nursery plus your research...

Laurent told us about your father.

Yes, that was a very brave move.

Especially for someone so young.

When someone you love disappears,

you try to preserve a bit more than just the memory.

Happy birthday to you...

Blow!

Yes! There's still one left...

Very well played!

Daddy gets to cut the cake.

Excuse me but...

How old were you when your dad died ?

I was nineteen.

You ok, darling ?

yeah!

Must have been very difficult, no ?

How did he die ?

it was a heart attack.

Ah yes, and...

please excuse me if this is indiscreet, but your mother ?

She never remarried

if that's what wanted to know.

Are you married?

Yes.

I'm married to science.

Unlike my nephew, apparently.

Isn't that right, Carole?

Yeah! If you're lucky enough to meet the man of your dreams,

you don't want to lose him.

Now, anyway...

I'm getting sleepy.

Would you mind if I head to bed ?

No, of course not.

We're going too.

Laurent, you coming ?

Ah well I think I should...

Ah, no, no, Cédric, we're not throwing you out!

Stay till tomorrow. We prepared the guest room for you.

You'll get a marvellous night's sleep here.

Go up.

Goodnight, everyone!

I gave you the summer sheets.

Yeah. Thank you, Jeanne.

Can you tell me just what I'm doing here ?

Like, how long this farce goes on for ?

I came here with Cédric to help you, Laurent.

Not to serve as your alibi.

This was the last time.

I'm never coming back unless you sort this out.

But I can't, dammit!

- I can't. - Then go explain that to Cédric.

Good night.

Carole fed up with the comedy ?

It's normal, I've taken her place.

You've never been in her place!

Stop, your parents.

- They're off to sleep. - Stop it.

You scared ?

No. But I don't want to.

Not here. Not like this.

Not until they know who I am for you.

I couldn't today, with Marine, and the others about...

The next time.

Of course.

Then next time, you'll find another excuse.

In fact it's like your first time. The more you wait... the harder it gets.

A bit like losing your virginity.

What, would you rather it be me who tells them?

You're off your head!

Listen Laurent!

I don't want us groping under the table or in hiding.

What would they think if they surprised us?

More dirty fags up to their filthy shit behind everyone's backs. Yeah?

I have no desire to feel ashamed.

I'm not ashamed of being with you.

I'm sorry, I can't sleep here.

Fine, then go.

I didn't ask you to stay, it was my mom.

Don't make me pretend.

Don't force me to pretend, I can't do that.

Anyway, I succeeded in my mission.

My in-laws think I'm great.

Give them my apologies.

What are you doing here ?

I'm working.

Yes I can see that, but weren't you supposed to be at Laurent's ?

Well yeah. But I'm here.

Did something happen ?

Isn't it a bit early for scotch ?

It's always too early for everything.

Oh shit! Fuck.

Don't ask Laurent to go faster than you.

Oh, it's you.

No, we just got home.

No, his lordship is sulking.

Yeah, I'll go see.

It's for you.

It's not ready yet. You'll need to wait.

I'm not eating, I'm going to Paris.

Now?

Well yeah.

There's a Symposium starting tomorrow, and it's good for me to be able to help out.

When will you be back?

When it's over.

Sorry for leaving you on your own.

I won't be on my own. Laurent will be here.

And the lab?

It's fine. I'll give you a bell.

Oh shit!

This can't start up all over again.

Are you Mrs Mouries ?

Laurent's mother ?

Yes.

I'm the mother of Cédric Martin.

Your son is doing his internship with us.

Hello Monsieur, Mesdames.

Hello, Mr Louret.

I'd like a chance to speak with you and your husband.

Thank you.

We were very sorry Cédric couldn't stay the weekend.

Laurent said you were sick.

Yeah, yeah, but I'm fine now.

Is there a problem with Laurent ? I mean the placement ?

Yes and no.

I don't understand...

It's rather delicate.... I....

I don't know, if I'm right to do what I'm doing here...

If there's a problem, go ahead! We're ready to hear everything.

Well then yes, yes. Yes there's a problem.

But it's between Cédric and Laurent.

I mean...

I think our kids are in love.

What do you mean to say ?

Exactly what you just understood.

What are you saying ? It's impossible!

Surely you're wrong!

Laurent has a girlfriend.

Yes, I'm aware of that. I know Carole.

But it's Cédric that Laurent loves.

I suppose you're telling me the truth.

Yes, Mr Mouries. I don't know how to lie.

I know it's very hard... but if I'm here,

it's because they need us.

I'll show you out.

You think that's the solution ? Shutting yourself in your room like that ?

I'm not looking for a solution.

It's not me who left you, Lolo.

Why don't you call him ?

and I tell him what...?

...yeah ok, you're right, finally you can ask for my hand from my dad ?

Why not?

For once, you're in love.

You're screwing yourself up here.

It's not my fault. I didn't ask to be gay.

I've already given enough, I think.

My poor Lolo.

What's your life going to be like ?

Hang on, Snow White...

Maybe your Prince Charming has come looking for you!

Laurent is here ?

Yes, in his room.

Laurent, it's your dad.

What are you doing here ?

Hang on dad, what the... what's happening here ?

You disgust me!

You two really took us for fools!

Don't you ever come back to the house.

Laurent!

Laurent!

What you doing? Stop!

Where is that asshole? I'll kill him!

He's in Paris! It's ok. Calm yourself!

It's not ok, no. You know what he did? He told my parents everything, the bastard.

It wasn't him, it was me. He knows nothing about it.

It was me, I'm telling you.

That's not ok. Why did you do that ?

Because I thought...

But my mother, dammit

Did you think about my mother ?

Jeanne, do you want to end up like me ?

Swallowing down half your pharmacy.

Martine... please!

I can't take it anymore.

It's like we killed our own son.

Martine, it wasn't your fault!

We can't accept some things, even if they're our own kids.

What did we do to make him like that ?

We gave him everything he ever wanted!

Jeanne!

There is one question you need to ask yourself.

It's the only question.

Do we love our kids as much as we pretend we do ?

They were laughing in my face

when I talked to them about grandchildren!

But what an idiot I was!

An idiot!

Exactly!

He could have spared us the masquerade.

It's our fault.

It was us, we pushed him into a lie...

To suit us, doing what would keep us happy.

I'm ashamed!

We'll look like such fools if people find out.

Don't busy yourself with thoughts of 'other people'!

We don't live with other people. Just with our children.

When your son is no longer here

it's not other people who will replace him.

Same again, please.

That's maybe be a bit too much, eh ?

I'm of legal age and I'm paying... so start pouring.

Is that what you wanted to know ?

To know if a girl could turn you on ?

That would have been so much easier.

At least I'd feel like everyone else.

No one is like everyone else.

It doesn't mean anything.

I need to be able to fuck a bitch.

I'm not a girl you can fuck.

You don't understand anything.

Think so?

You're gay, Laurent.

So, deal with it.

And stop dumping your problems on us.

I'm sorry to say this to you, but...

Marc had more courage than you.

Good evening Carole

I know it's late but I need to speak to Laurent. Is he there ?

Err, yes.

Yeah, Emma?

I think it'll be a long while before you touch pastis again.

A whole bottle on an empty stomach!

I'm going to give you something to relax you.

and make sure you get some rest.

If you feel he's too depressed, you can give him both pills instead of one.

Alright. Thank you, doctor.

- Goodbye! - Goodbye!

You see...

Even at my age you can do stupid things.

So what am I doing here ?

Well, like this I can keep an eye on you.

Is it a habit of yours to cause shit for other people ?

Most of all, it's this waste I can't stand.

I don't think I have anything to do here.

You can leave if you want.

You do what you want.

Fine...

Me, I'm hungry.

You've no questions for me?

To learn what ?

How your parents reacted.

There's nothing I can do.

Okay.

I was wrong, doing what I did. Yes. But...

give them some time, Laurent.

You're insufferable... You, Cédric and all of you!

We're expected to take it all in, without being allowed time to understand

or time to cry, even!

You didn't throw Cédric out. You still love him.

Is that what you think ? Your parents don't love you ?

I disgust them, that's all.

Why don't you try talking to your mum, like you're talking to me ?

Why don't you tell her what happened with Carole last night, for example ?

Why is me that knows, but she doesn't?

Ultimately, I would have preferred to have a mother like you, I think.

Aren't you ashamed to say such a thing?

Do you know what your mother's going through, right now ?

And all that because of me.

And him... two days, no calls!

Cédric?

Oh hello!... no, please excuse me just a moment.

It's your mother. Do you want to talk to her ?

Yes, sorry, a customer.

Yes....

but he's not here just now, Laurent. No, no.

He'll be living here for a few days, yes.

Sorry?

If you like, yes.

Where?

I don't know where I am anymore.

for me, it's unbearable to think that Laurent is...

but it's also unbearable to think I will never see him again.

It's also unbearable for him, never to see you again.

Jeanne...

How can you throw your child out the door just because he's a bit different ?

How did you manage to accept it ?

Me too, Jeanne. Oh, I cried over it too, Jeanne.

Me too, I dreamt of baking cakes, and grandchildren all around.

And for a boy to sleep with another boy...

Even today...

You see? You think the same way we do.

We've nothing against those people.

You know there are lots who come into the pharmacy.

Yes, but their names are neither Laurent, nor Marc.

When it happens to us, we're all the same.

I accepted it because I didn't want to lose my son.

And whatever I think deep down,

I want him to be happy.

Don't you?

Jeanne

Cédric and Laurent have broken up.

That doesn't interest me.

Cedric wanted Laurent to tell you the truth but Laurent didn't want to.

He didn't want to hurt you, and he didn't want to lose you.

He's done everything to lose us.

Listen, Jeanne...

I don't know what you expect from me.

I just know Laurent is deeply unhappy.

He's suffering because of the pain he's caused you.

Because he doesn't want to be homosexual,

and because he loves my son, despite it all.

I need to get back to the nursery.

It's not like you to do this.

You think it's like me to knock back a bottle of neat pastis?

and try to screw my best friend?

To be honest, I think you should hate me.

I love you as you are.

I don't even think I would love you any other way.

But I understood that a bit late.

What are you going to do till school starts ?

Stay here ?

No. I'm going to leave.

I think that's the best thing to do.

You can keep the apartment.

But you'll have to find someone.

Oh, you know, I already did.

Mathieu...

You and your cigarettes!

Sorry! I'll put it out...

Smoke, idiot.

Or you'll say you're off to water the garden.

Is that what Cédric does?

You love him... eh?

I'm not going to stay, Emma.

I really don't want to be here when Cédric gets back.

I'll finish up in the lab and then I'm leaving.

Where will you go?

I'm going to Paris.

I saw Bermand, the college Principal

and I told him everything, without hiding anything.

He's found me another school.

I really want to do this job, even if I messed up.

It's such a shame to carry around so much useless suffering at your age.

Hello?

Ah, it's you!

How's the symposium ?

Is it interesting?

Yeah, yeah, everything's going very well.

Don't worry if you don't get an answer tomorrow morning as I won't be here.

I saw the doctor today, I have to do some tests.

oh, it's just a precaution, it's nothing serious.

No, it's not worth the bother. I'll be back in the afternoon.

Yeah, that's it.

Me too. I love you, darling. Bye!

Emma?

Emma?

Mom?

Mom, where are you ?

I'm here.

Ok, so what are these tests ?

What time are you going to the hospital ?

I'm not going back to the hospital. It was a false alarm.

Are you kidding me ?

The coffee's hot. Eat, you must be hungry.

So this story about the doctor was all bullshit ?

And your Symposium story ?

Why did you play this trick ?

Me, playing games ?

You've been where ? since Sunday

I already told you... a Symposium.

So, am I interfering in your life ?

I never said that.

Then let me tell you this...

You would do well to give more consideration to others

because, for you, life is always like this...

and whatever Laurent feels... well you don't give a shit about that.

I'm going to tell you something else, too...

I messed up too.

I went to Walincourt,

I saw Laurent's parents,

and I told them everything.

Shit! What gave you the right ?

The right to happiness.

Sounds stupid but it exists.

You're telling me this now ?

Do you realise what you've done ?

How did it go ?

Really bad.

I thought that between intelligent people,

I could explain my experience to them.

and Laurent ? Where is he ?

He said he wanted to go to Paris.

But he's still here.

His train leaves in an hour.

He doesn't know you're back.

You're impossible!

Laurent!

Laurent!

Shit, I'm sorry. I didn't expect you back.

It's OK, you can stay.

No, I have a train.

I fucked up...

I saved what I could but the project's gone.

Emma told me what happened.

So ? What does that change ?

In any case, I still haven't told my parents.

So I'm still a "virgin".

Really ?

The only change is you dragged me to Paris.

Hah, that's a bummer! I just got back.

Oh well. We can say we crossed paths.

So goodbye.

Laurent!

You're not going to say goodbye ?

Goodbye.

And thanks.

Even after what I did ?

ooof! I should have done it myself.

Call your mom when you arrive. It's important to have a mother.

Like it's also wonderful to have children.

Do you want me to take you to the station ?

Yeah ok, that way I won't miss my train.

Hello ?

Yes, it's me.

Jeanne?

Ah no.

No, he left.

Do you know where he is ?

No. All I know is he transferred to a different school. In Paris.

Jeanne ?

Jeanne ?

We've just lost Laurent.

We'd already lost him.

You don't understand. We'll never see him again.

It's better that way.

I wouldn't accept it if he came back here. I would have left.

I'm a selfish bastard, Laurent.

Emma is right.

I should not demand everyone else does the same thing as me.

I hurt you. I'm really sorry.

You hear ?

I love you.

I love you.

Take me to Walincourt.

And Laurent ? It's been ages since I saw him. He's doing well ?

Yeah, yeah... Very well.

Excuse me...

Can you come please? We're very busy..

For your vitamins, do you prefer pills or drops ?

Drops! Pills are...

So, I don't give a shit that you don't want to see me any more.

I don't want to lose you.

Excuse me...

Can we continue this discussion out back ?

I'll wait for you in the car.

I'm sorry, but I'm in a hurry.

Why did you bring me here?

As far as I'm concerned, I have no reason to be ashamed.

Not everyone needs to know.

Stop thinking only of yourself.

Have you thought about us ?

I've been doing that my entire life! I've only ever been thinking about you.

So leave me to speak. OK ?

You know Cédric.

I'm in love with him.

Yeah

I love him.

So yes, I love a guy. I know you can't stand it, but that's just how it is.

It's not a question of gay or whatever...

...it's just a question of love.

But dad, it's not your fault. It's not mine, either.

You haven't done anything, and I neither have I.

Please...

Just give me a bit more time.

Oh damn, but I feel like so much lighter!

Really ?

Oh yeah, well now I'm starting to get freaked out

Why?

Well... because now, we've got no reason to argue.

Oh Monsieur, I can find you some reasons!

Oh yeah ?!

Well, would you like me to tell you something important.

Go ahead.

Now that I know your parents,

Yeah

If you're nice you won't force me to see them again.

Hahaha!

Well Ok, but only if your mom sees a psychotherapist, starting tomorrow!

OK! OK!

Asshole!

Stupid fag!

Une Question D'Amour