Original subtitles

CRIME AND PUNISHMENT

Based on the novel by Dostoyevsky.

Rag and bone? Any old iron?

Rag and bone?

Rag and bone? Any old iron?

Well, René?

You said you'd come by at 3. Haven't you finished?

I haven't even started. Your translations are a bore!

- Are you sick? - No, I'm hungry.

We were going to get 50. It isn't normal.

And it's normal we spent 3 years studying

only to translate murder mysteries!

- It's a game. - A game!

Rather than playing for nothing, why not commit a crime?

A crime that'd make us rich!

Why not two or three? If it makes us rich!

There are useless old ladies.

What's the harm in taking their money?

Look at your mum and sis. That answers your dumb questions.

I thought you were broke! What's this?

200 francs the postman brought me...

from my mother.

You're complaining?

I won't touch it.

Nicole is getting engaged to a good man...

or rather, a rich man.

An old man who'll shower her with gifts.

Would you let your young sis marry him?

Too many questions!

I'll take the text.

I'd better get down to work since you won't.

Go and eat. You'll feel better for it.

Murder would upset folk.

Find something else.

Try to stop Nicole marrying the old man. It'd be a shame.

Sir?

René Brunel.

I was intending to pay you a visit. I'm delighted to...

You won't shake my hand?

No matter. Come in.

Nicole warned me about your character...

I promised to win you over.

BY buying me? How much?

I gave my word. You can't vex me.

With all that fat, your skin must be tough.

The 200 you gave me to buy your way in... keep it!

I gave your mother a sum for her travel expenses.

She and Nicole arrive tomorrow.

They wrote to me.

She sent the money without my knowledge.

- Don't criticize! - I'm not.

But had I known you were short, I'd have helped you out,

and generously.

Monestier, why not give up the idea of marrying Nicole?

But she said yes. Or rather, almost.

You're asking me to give up immense joy.

Nicole is eighteen!

Yes. I was moved by her youth.

It excites you! Admit it.

I promised her we wouldn't row.

I promised myself she wouldn't marry you!

On Sundays, the two of us sway.

Under the branches and feel so gay.

Our hearts full of love.

Where's the booze?

In my haversack, there.

Who's there?

Don't you recognize me? René Brunel.

- You again! - I need to survive.

My coffers are empty!

I've got a watch for you.

- Gold? - Yes.

Come in.

Show me.

An old model.

It's my father's watch. It's good quality.

No one wants these nowadays.

And it could be plated.

Show some heart.

Everyone knows Mrs Orvet helps the poor.

It's worth nothing! Or practically nothing.

Help out a poor student.

8 francs minus 3 months' interest.

The less I lend you, the easier it'll be to pay me back.

What's wrong with you?

You're pale, and your brow's sweaty.

I felt giddy.

6.8 francs.

What do you say?

I'm being kind.

And I warn you, 3 months is 3 months. Not a day more.

- Got 2 francs? - No.

I won't quibble over 2 francs. Here's 7 francs.

It's the 10th of May today.

The 10th of August without fail.

You could say thank you!

And close the door behind you.

- What about me? - Got any money?

Having money is one thing,

being thirsty is another.

It's totally unrelated.

Well, open a bar and tell me about it.

Give me a drink! Anything will do.

Anything but water. And I'll tell you my life story.

Don't get on my nerves.

A vermouth.

Gentlemen, Lady Luck will smile

on whoever takes pity on the pig holding out his glass.

Get lost!

Sorry, gents.

Sweethearts are soft-hearted.

They will have pretty children

if they buy me a drink.

Wait till we're married!

Leave my customers alone or I'll throw you out!

To your health, gents!

To your good health!

You whose glass is full...

Sir, may God ensure your glass is always full.

It isn't His job!

Sir...

would you give a glass of wine to Pierre Marcellin?

Bad husband, terrible father...

thrown out of everywhere for drunkenness

and not daring to go home.

He who says nothing, agrees...

Your good manners require a word of explanation.

I left my family to go out for a walk.

It's been six days now since I left home

with the few pennies I had left.

Gustave, who's that man? He's amusing.

You find? I don't. If you knew the life he led...

A local tramp?

A sad man with a sick wife and starving kids.

No kidding!

Would it be too much

to ask for another bottle?

I can't afford it.

Just my luck!

Where to now?

One always has to go somewhere.

But where?

I ask you.

You should go home.

And reappear before Thérése, née Michaux,

whose first husband was Captain Fabier.

Go home without making a sound.

Would you come with me?

Thérése has a poorly chest.

She coughs and spits blood.

I don't complain, mind!

Would you explain to her

that my illness is drunkenness,

one doesn't choose one's illness

and each of us must bear our own

as God decided?

Young man,

you who are kind-hearted and educated,

would you tell Thérése

to take pity on me?

Poverty is not a vice,

but destitution is the worst of vices.

Figure that one out!

I live here.

Good thing the house is rotten.

Without those beams, I would never recognize it.

I have got you home, now go up alone.

No, René, if you abandon me, I'll sit here and wait.

- Wait for what? - I'll wait... for nothing!

Look, I don't mean to... Do you live high up?

On the third floor. But the stairs are as rotten as the rest.

Let's get you bed!

Another thing I didn't tell you...

Tell me next time.

I don't deserve your friendship if I hide the worse.

I haven't told you about Lily.

Who's Lily?

My daughter. My eldest.

- Well, Lily... - How old is she?

Eighteen.

There's no need to explain. I've understood.

Up you go.

- René! - What?

I feel sick.

Wait... I need to rest a bit.

Everything is spinning.

I could tell you I started drinking to forget what Lily does...

No! The opposite is true.

Seeing we were always broke,

hearing the kids cry constantly,

she went and did it.

I still remember her coming home with 30 francs one day.

What is an affectionate father to do?

Shout and murder someone?

Kill himself?

Know what I did, René?

Yes. You said nothing and took the money.

Yes.

But I promised before God

I would never drink again.

But I started again.

And so did Lily.

Obviously.

I disgust you, eh?

No you don't.

But what would God think of all this?

He's no more a fool than I.

That's what I think!

To all drunks, God will show forgiveness.

I can just picture all the loathsome men like me,

of every nation and every color, appearing before Him

shaking with fear!

God smiles at them.

"Bloody bastards!

"Are you not ashamed?"

Have you finished shouting?

Thérése! Don't leave me.

Come on.

I'd be happy to come in if you don't shout too much.

I have no strength left.

The children are asleep.

It's the only thing that's free.

And for food...

how did you manage?

Lily came by every day.

And I, who was born a Michaux, took that bread.

There was no other.

I'd rather you insulted me.

I coughed up blood.

Yet I still did the laundry.

The kids have one shirt. Every night, I do it.

How do you expect me to put up with that?

Oh if I could...

If the captain knew how you treat me, he'd turn up with his riding crop

and beat you!

The captain dumped his wife.

Liar! He was good. When I was sick, he held my hand.

While holding his playing cards!

You're lying!

He sold your piano.

He sold your rugs.

He sold the portrait of your father.

That isn't true. You're lying.

Daddy! Daddy!

You've gone and woken them up.

- Daddy, where were you? - I had work to do.

Daddy, are you staying?

I'll never leave again.

Dominique, Pascal, come here.

Let go of your father and come here.

Or the captain will whip you.

Don't be afraid, Daddy will protect you.

You'll run to the bar, ashamed of your cowardice.

Do as I say.

Don't upset Mummy.

Dominique, look at your darling Daddy.

He's a swine.

And you, Pascal

look carefully at your father,

who is so drunk he cannot stand up.

He is slowly killing me.

They'll lose all respect for me.

A monster...

A worm...

This is the father that God gave you.

One day, on coming home, he will find us dead.

The three of us.

It's better I go.

See how I'm treated?

But where can I go?

That's the big problem.

Madam...

You should put them to bed and go to sleep.

At least, it will be over for today.

What about tomorrow?

Things will be better, I promise you.

Listen to him.

He's my friend.

He came to tell you you should trust me.

And sleep.

Goodbye.

Thank you for taking pity on Pierre Marcellin.

That's alright.

- René! - What?

If you need a friend, say the word and I'll come running.

Mind the stairs! The house is rotten.

Pierre!

- Lily? - Pierre, I'm your friend.

- Going for a stroll? - I'm looking for a girl. Lily.

- Her client? - I've never met her.

I don't mean to brag, but I'll please you more.

It's Lily I'm after.

She's at the end of the quayside.

- Lily? - You'll have no fun with her!

- I'm not here to have fun. - Lily is the last girl.

I don't recognize you. It's so dark.

We've never met.

I met your father in a bar tonight and took him home.

But he fell over the banister. He was drunk.

The only thing he could say was your name.

Come with me.

Your father told me about you. I met his wife and kids.

I liked him instantly.

He was so unhappy.

Mrs Brunel? I'm Jean Fargeot.

Is René ill?

He's an urgent job to finish, so he asked me to meet you.

It's his work? Can I believe you?

He'll come say hello this afternoon.

Thank you. It's kind of you. I always worry so.

My daughter. Mr Monestier.

The luggage? Where's our luggage?

I gave it to the porter. Don't you worry.

Allow me to take your mother's arm?

In René's room, there's a photo of you and your mother.

I've looked at it so much, I recognized you at once.

René rarely writes, but he always mentions you.

I've known you for years too.

We're old friends, then!

Already?

Did René decide not to come, to avoid Monestier?

To be honest, yes.

Is he still as difficult?

What about his sudden rages and terrible silences?

Still.

Are there times when René scares you?

Thank you.

- Alright, René? - Fine. And you?

Same as usual.

Honestly! Where did you go? Your hand's warm.

I was walking.

At the station, it was fine.

I took your sister... and your mother to their hotel.

It's a nice place.

Monestier is so generous!

- Was he there? - Yes.

Your mother thought you were ill.

But Nicole understood. She's very smart.

I chatted to her for ages. Well, to her and your mother.

Your long silences disconcert them.

Then out of the blue, a letter about some great success!

They don't believe it.

Would you? Your plans always change...

Your half, René.

It's about Nicole... and your mother.

She's marrying Monestier because of her.

And because of you!

I'll go and see them this afternoon. Come along.

You'll see if she's hesitant.

- Why not call them? - I'll go at 4.

I promised your mother and Nicole, I'd warn them.

May I call them?

If you've money to waste!

A token, please.

The booth is at the back.

It's gold. It weighs 20 grams. 30 is a bargain, eh?

Go and see Mrs Orvet, then. No. 51. 3rd floor.

I was just there! I knocked but no one answered.

If she's dead, it'll be the 1st thing she hasn't stolen.

She went to collect her rent. She'll be home at 6.

Just Wait till 6.

I need the 30 right now.

I'm happy to do favors, but I won't touch that.

Hey, Gustave!

Tell my pal I left and he'll see me at 4.

Tell him to pay for my drink.

We'll tell him.

Well?

Well, have a glass of white and wait till 6 to get swindled.

You don't tell anything about your health or work.

I know my questions annoy you.

Tell me you're happy.

Don't worry, Mum.

Loving one's children means worrying about them.

And I love you and Nicole so.

When I saw you, you seemed awfully pale.

Are you eating properly and getting enough sleep?

I know you too well.

You're upset about something.

Or annoyed by someone!

To avoid an awkward scene, I went to see him.

Didn't he tell you?

It was more tactful not to.

Tact is one of your qualities?

I can't afford to be tactful!

For my penniless family, I'm asking you...

why has Nicole agreed to marry you?

I have my reasons.

Let Monestier answer.

Antoine! You gave me your word.

I shall keep my cool.

Very well! You're here because of your money.

Nicole is only marrying you because of it!

Someone had to say it.

- René, shame on you! - Nicole is a kid.

She's got it into her head Monestier is a solution!

So she'll say yes on her wedding day.

She'll have to sleep with this thing!

Leave me alone!

Monestier, look at yourself in the mirror.

In 10 years', you'll be an old man.

Mum, open your eyes! You can't sacrifice her.

Sell every last piece of furniture.

Yesterday, I refused his money. I pawned my watch to eat.

What about your job?

That's how it is. We take whatever comes our way.

But giving Nicole to Monestier... Just look at him.

What a pretty son-in-law!

I agree I'm not pretty. For the rest, allow me to answer.

So tactful, generous and rich!

It'd suit you to heap your generosity on me!

Answer by throwing that at me.

- I said I'd keep calm... - Lift a finger, and...

It's alright. I'll be back to throw you out.

Antoine, please forgive him for that outburst.

I never thought he'd dare...

...express himself so frankly? It's his age. I'm not angry.

I know I am neither young or handsome, but...

why offend me by reminding me of it so brutally?

It's alright. We please as we can.

You mustn't fall out with René.

You were perfect and René was loathsome.

I remained calm, but I'm terribly upset.

Allow me to leave.

I'll come and see you tomorrow.

Alright.

I don't what to say.

That's a good reason not to say anything at all.

Goodbye, Nicole.

Mr Fargeot, what a scene!

He said there'd be tears.

And you kept quiet?

May I give you my opinion?

Oh, you know, I'm at a loss as what to do.

Nicole... I'm meddling in a very private affair

when I barely know you.

I trusted you immediately.

Do not marry Mr Monestier at any price.

Who is it?

A friend. René Brunel.

You again!

I've brought a gold chain, with a crucifix.

Is the crucifix gold too?

It's a steal.

Come in!

You were out this morning.

I had things to do. Where's your crucifix?

I was afraid I'd lose it, so I put it in a box.

Why is there so much string?

I don't how to wrap parcels.

Undoing all these knots will tire my eyes.

Don't you have a knife?

Never do that.

Cutting string is bad luck.

- Is it stolen? - Students aren't thieves.

We're taught Roman law, common law,

natural law...

You'll break the door!

The door isn't locked. It's bolted on the inside.

- So? - Well, it proves someone's inside.

If Mrs Orvet won't let you in, that's her business!

Hey, sonny, can you tell the janitor

to come up to the 3rd floor?

Mummy told me to hurry.

You have to go up and see!

She often refuses to open the door.

If I went up every time...

She said she'd be home at 6.

So I rang and rang and rang... No one came to the door.

That's when I noticed it was bolted on the inside.

So I decided to ring again.

I tried so many times, I started to get suspicious.

There's no point ringing! Break the bolt by kicking the door.

Look.

What do they want?

My father is dead.

Did you see him?

And your stepmother is going round in circles?

She put feathers in the kids' hair

and sent them out to sing in the street.

She's accompanying them on a saucepan,

so my father gets mass at the funeral.

Why have you come?

On getting home, I found the 200 francs.

Did you leave it?

It's dirty money. No need to thank me.

One gets used to dirty money.

It serves the same purpose.

Maybe you were too hasty?

Keep it. God will pay me back!

Of course.

You took pity on my father

and held out your hand to me.

- If one day... - This bad son and brother

needs someone to take pity on him,

you'll hold out your hand.

That's right. I didn't dare say so.

This is a poor neighborhood. You should see how they live.

With all this poverty and misery, Mrs Orvet made a pile.

She was ever so helpful!

So this little accident hardly surprised you.

It was almost inevitable.

I've heard so many people swear they'd kill her.

Is that so? They came in here to tell you

how the old lady had swindled them?

Sometimes, not always.

I'd be interested to know who's complained recently.

It's just talk, you know.

Over a drink. If I had to recall every conversation...

You weren't really listening so you've forgotten.

- That's right. - Gustave!

A black coffee.

To Mrs Orvet's health!

Coming right up, René.

She didn't only have friends.

A rat!

Alive yesterday, dead today. The difference is slight.

For the rat, it's enormous.

It doesn't even realize.

The gentleman is looking at it

from a pig's perspective.

You're the police?

Yes, sorry!

- A robber killed her? - Very probably.

He must have done well!

Oh no. He wasn't as skilled as the murderer.

A perfect murder. Then he lost his head.

An amateur.

That's funny. It's easier to rummage in a drawer

than stab someone in the back.

He attacked from the front.

It's better when you're seen.

Didn't she scream?

I wasn't there. What do you think?

Excuse me! I wasn't there either.

Who is he?

I don't know. I've only seen him a few times.

He calls you Gustave, you call him René.

René what?

100,000 under the mattress!

You seem very interested.

Aren't you?

It's all part of the job.

I've seen hoodlums strike so many times.

Why would it be a hoodlum?

Well, the facts are there.

If you kill for money, you attack a debt collector

or a Storekeeper.

He killed an indefensible woman. He made a choice.

He took the easy option.

You think it's easy to kill an old lady cleanly?

There are so many awful details.

The woman under the rug, blood on the blotter...

The worst thing is, he took risks but missed the money.

That won't be how the police see it.

You see, Mr Brunel...

You are Mr Brunel?

Yes.

No, you see...

you're a smart, educated boy... A student perhaps?

So you have a very fertile imagination...

You want to imagine the killer's reaction

and what it's like to be him.

Precisely! It amuses me.

Yes, but it's a game.

If Mrs Orvet were here, would you have the courage

to stab her with a knife...

cleanly, as you put it?

Believe me, it was the act of hoodlum.

And I bet we already know who the murderer is.

Then why are you here?

It's all part of the job. I have to conduct an investigation.

It also means I get to have a nice chat with you.

Gustave! Put my coffee on my slate.

Tell me, does Mr Brunel owe you a lot?

No. 10 francs maybe.

In any case, I don't give credit.

Hello? Yes.

Who?

If it's for Inspector Galey, that's me.

Hold the line. It's for you.

Hello, Galey here.

Very well.

Mrs Orvet's murderer has been arrested.

Sir...

Do you like music?

I feel sorry for the man.

I'm fond of the accordion. What if you were always alone

and you'd done something terrible...

You're cracked, young man.

It was glistening on the floor.

I picked it up. I had know idea where it'd come from.

You knew the old lady was dead?

The whole building did.

You knew she received stolen jewelry?

- No. - Had you been working there long?

Two weeks.

Ever go up to the old lady's?

No. Never.

You would have known when she was home alone.

I paid no attention.

What time did you leave?

Me and my buddy left earlier than usual.

The paint had to dry.

The janitor saw us. I spoke to him.

To attract his attention! Then you went back up.

- No. - Someone saw you!

- That's impossible. - Two people saw you!

Easy, Noblet, easy. You'll tire him.

It's to catch him off guard.

I don't like to catch that way. Go easy.

See? We're nice guys.

We won't wrongly accuse you.

I didn't do it!

We'll see about that.

The old lady was out all day. You saw her come home.

No!

You were working in the front room, with the door open.

And you didn't see her?

I didn't notice.

No one holds that against you.

You weren't there to watch the tenants. We believe you.

But we find it suspicious, you didn't see her go past.

- Maybe I did. - You just said no!

- I didn't say no. - Yes or no?

When we help you out, you lie to us.

- I didn't lie! - You were watching her.

- You were waiting... - Rent day was perfect!

You put the knife back!

Hid the gloves!

Come on now, stop. You'll just make him dizzy.

Come in!

- Boss, you're wanted. - Coming!

He had the earrings. That's a fact.

Just stick to the facts. You can see it wasn't him.

Go easy on him, OK?

Right! We'll start again, and don't get annoyed.

Tell us truthfully what time you left.

Mr Brunel...

I've just come from a tiresome and totally futile interview.

To what do I owe the pleasure?

I forgot to tell you something.

You came for that?

- Yes. - That's very kind of you!

So many people are hostile toward us.

This morning I forgot to tell you...

You took off so suddenly...

just as I was told we'd caught the murderer.

Well, maybe. The boy being questioned now.

I wanted to say that I knew Mrs Orvet.

And?

She helped me out several times.

You're not the only one.

The day before, I went to see her.

To pawn a gold watch. I know.

The day before the crime doesn't interest us.

I simply wanted to inform you.

Allow me to shut the window. That noise is so annoying.

It'll end up driving us all crazy.

All of us.

You know, someone like Mrs Orvet

who receives stolen goods always keeps accounts.

We've found her notebook.

So you'll question all her customers?

I don't believe in very long interviews

and investigations full of false testimonies.

I've become lazy. I'd rather sit here and wait.

What are you waiting for?

My retirement!

Since you went to Mrs Orvet's from time to time,

maybe you saw that.

Go take a look.

Go on.

Remove the cloth.

Recognize them?

If only they could talk!

But they just sing.

Unlucky about your watch. It was stolen from Mrs Orvet's.

Declare it stolen, then you'll get it back.

Well, possibly.

Have any questions?

None. But I'll put something to you.

Since you came to see me,

I'd like to visit you.

To search my place?

Oh, I wouldn't say that! Simply to have a look.

Got a warrant?

I always do. Blank warrants. It speeds things up.

Could you open the door?

It's always open.

Go on, Noblet.

Write your declaration of theft, then it'll over for you.

Got a pen?

Yes. What do I write?

Well... I, the undersigned, declare having pawned

a gold watch to Mrs Orvet...

Add the date and sign.

Napoleon! Rare in a young man's home.

Sport and cinema are more popular. Climbing too.

Do you really admire Napoleon?

He had contempt for human life.

Not his own, obviously. But five million killings...

Rather a lot for one man, don't you think?

Inspector, you're conditioned by your job!

Maybe. But isn't it odd single crimes are a police matter

whereas mass murder is an historical matter?

I'm not a historian.

Did you check behind the sink?

Someone knocked.

I'm allowed visitors!

Who said you weren't? Come in!

Am I disturbing you?

Not me. But these gents want Mrs Orvet's jewelry.

Nothing behind the sink.

I'm Antoine Monestier, antique dealer.

I'm happy to vouch for René Brunel, who's a friend of mine.

Practically a relative.

Very kind of you. But we're done.

Give me the declaration for your watch. I'll deal with it.

If it's found, I'll be told?

I doubt you'll get it back before we find the murderer...

When he's arrested, we'll let you know. Obviously.

Excuse me. Gentlemen.

You're involved in the case?

I'm feverish, sick...

Go away, Monestier.

Nicole told me she needs time to think.

If she thinks, she'll say no.

At least you're realistic!

Lucid. For me... and for others too, in fact.

I've you to thank for Nicole's change of heart.

At least I can boast of that!

I expected the contrary from you.

Tell her it's a wonderful sacrifice,

and her satisfaction will surpass the emotions of love and pleasure.

- You're vile, Monestier! - Indeed.

I'm quite a vile creature.

It's caused me some suffering.

I tried to fight it.

With much sacrifice, one can keep up appearances.

I'm honest enough not to conceal my vileness.

René, I need Nicole.

From one young girl to another,

younger and younger.

I'll wind up in trouble.

Nicole said no. She's safe. Now go!

And what if Nicole were lost?

I came to have it out with you. You were out but...

the door was open. Don't you worry about your watch.

I found it.

The best families have secrets!

Get out, Monestier.

Or I don't know what I'll do.

Don't you start again. Not every day.

It'd be easier to tell Nicole I'll make a fine husband.

- Monestier, you're... - Vile, yes.

You're repeating yourself.

It's unfair.

Seeing as I'm offering you my friendship,

my unlimited help. Isn't it?

No violence. Excellent!

It proves you've understood.

René, we're made to get on famously.

I don't care about Mrs Orvet.

To make you feel at ease, I'll tell you a secret.

As you know my wife committed suicide.

Well, you could say I assisted her.

To marry Nicole, I had to be a widower.

Don't hope to inform on me. On what basis?

Words?

Getting old is terrible.

But when one murders, one thinks about things.

I didn't leave my watch lying around.

Won't you shake my hand?

No?

You amuse me, dear boy.

You find my crime disgusting, and yours admirable.

Is arrogance your weakness by any chance?

That's enough for today. Think about it.

Then go and tell Nicole after having it out with me,

I've earned your respect.

But don't waste time.

I'm very attracted to your sister, and all this excites me.

Monestier is always on the lookout for old furniture.

How did he know Mother had this fine secretaire?

He came to the house and came back several times.

Because of the secretaire?

He ended up paying Mother four times what she'd hoped for.

The next day, he gave me the secretaire.

It's nice being rich!

He invited us to dinner.

That's how it happened.

Would you have married him?

I don't know anymore.

My world was foggy. Everything was gray.

And now?

NOW?

There's sunshine.

What are you two plotting?

I was telling Nicole I had no money or future.

Nicole thinks it's wonderful!

Oh, children! You only met yesterday.

You said "children"?

Misfortune strikes suddenly.

Happiness can too.

Please, think about it for a second.

We've decided not to think.

Do you speak English?

Why do you ask?

Tomorrow at 9am, we're attacking murder mysteries.

That's the crime that pays!

With wonderful stories of rape and grisly murder.

We'll make people very happy!

I swear, he's totally insane!

If René had wanted to...

But he hates blood and crime disgusts him.

Didn't you know she's dead?

I'm sorry.

Don't you read the papers?

Was it you who rang the bell?

I heard 10 people go up. Only you rang.

What were you hoping for? That Mrs Orvet would let you in?

You're not waiting at your desk anymore?

A bit at my desk, a bit here. I needed fresh air.

I've just read an article in here signed with an initial: B.

The author divides men into two categories.

A huge herd made to obey

and a small group of geniuses

who are above the law.

Yes. I wrote that article.

As you can imagine, I knew.

As I have the pleasure of seeing you,

I would like you to tell me

which laws geniuses do not have to observe.

They rebel against the law to create a new law.

Great men impose their views, causing bloodshed.

And how do you recognize a genius?

Look, I'm down-to-earth.

But don't you think to avoid errors,

we ought to impose on these remarkable men,

a uniform or a badge?

So we can recognize them.

And another thing...

Who will decide if a man

is made for the herd or the elite little group?

Huh? Who?

Believe me, it's all a bit unclear and childish.

Anyway...

Look at that.

Rather sad on a new ceiling.

That stain?

Mrs Orvet's blood.

I imagine you came here to be alone,

so I'll leave you alone.

What are automatons?

They're dolls that dance and play music.

If you like, I can show you.

Don't look to your left. Monestier is here.

Alone?

No, with a young girl, who he's holding in a disgusting way.

Take me away. I don't want to see him.

Sit here. Order what you like.

I'll be right back.

- What if you don't? - You don't know me. Sit.

Waiter! A strawberry and vanilla ice cream.

You needed time to think.

I'm delighted to see you're thinking by taking the advice

and the hand of this gentleman.

Nicole told you, and she has the right.

You have the right to dance. But have you seen your brother?

Not today.

I saw him this morning, and René is in trouble with the...

Didn't you know?

I've no idea.

- You neither, sir? - What's your point?

You've the right to dance and look into his eyes,

and meanwhile...

May I sit down?

And meanwhile, the police are searching his room.

- The police? - Why?

A lady was murdered,

and René knew her very well.

And the police dares suspect...

It does, yes. It's obviously wrong, but it's unpleasant.

They need proof!

Precisely. The police are looking for it...

while you dance.

So I was alone to help him.

He's incapable of that! The police have nothing.

Well, that's perfect. So why worry?

Goodbye.

Tell me what you know.

Not in front of him. He isn't family yet.

I don't want to spoil your evening.

But if you want to know more, come see me tomorrow.

- Not without me! - Never mind, then.

Please excuse me. I enjoy dancing too.

What did he mean?

On seeing us, he realized he had no chance.

He wants to worry you, to take revenge.

You think so?

And what if René...?

It's impossible.

Are you sure?

I'm alone, Lily.

One can't always be alone.

Or keep quiet when one wants to shout!

Your father said, "The problem is, one always has to go somewhere."

I don't know where to go.

Things will be better tomorrow.

A woman was murdered, stabbed to death.

I did it.

You needed to tell someone?

Well, you've said it.

I only struck her once.

But it wasn't her I killed.

It was me, with one blow.

You can hide at my place.

No one ever visits.

It's my refuge.

I'm thirsty.

I only have water.

Do you want to talk, or remain silent?

Talk.

Out loud, or under your breath?

God isn't with me, eh?

It's better He doesn't keep such company.

Me, for instance...

I killed the old lady.

Would you like more water?

Don't you want to know why?

If it will relieve you, tell me.

I killed the old lady to rob her.

You had 200 francs. You gave it away for no reason.

You're not a thief.

I did it to protest then. Yes, that's it, to protest!

I couldn't accept so much injustice.

I wanted to do an heroic deed.

Killing a defenseless old woman...

Of course...

that isn't it.

I did it out of cowardice, then.

I could have continued my studies, by giving lessons, translating...

And out of laziness, I suddenly wanted to be...

I didn't touch the money, though.

Or the jewelry.

And I never could.

No... it must be something else.

Sure, I could say I wanted to save my darling sister.

That'd be moving!

But it isn't that either.

Maybe I'm insane?

No...

But I was alone,

and my imagination was running riot.

Lily...

I killed her for specific reasons.

I'd even say irrefutable reasons.

I don't remember them...

I'm trying to explain and I can't.

To kill, you must be two...

he who kills and he who must die.

The murderer knows why he comes, why he strikes.

The victim clouds all with his eyes, with his blood...

and the crime becomes his affair too.

And in the horrific details, the straight, simple line...

I lost it.

I killed the old lady, and I no longer know why.

Lily, look at me.

What should I do now?

Simply go and tell them what you did.

- Who? - You know very well.

They will rid you of some of the burden.

They cannot do more. And then...

And then?

Someone else will bear the rest.

Him? I don't believe it.

The cops have no right to meddle in such a private matter!

I know them better than you do!

But it's the first act of submission.

Hold out your wrists.

Once your hands are tied, put them together.

No! I'm not that insane.

I'll fight! I'll deny it. I'll get out of this mess.

I would like to go...

very far away...

but not on my own.

And if you like...

Leave the little ones... with their crazy mother

while we're chased by the police and old lady.

The old lady too.

You've lost your life, René.

I've given mine.

We're like two corpses staring sadly at each other,

who will never get warm.

Can't we start over?

What would two corpses start over?

When I was small, my dad told me...

It's funny, I still remember.

Lazarus was in his tomb,

and the sisters were weeping.

No one could help. A dead man's place is in his tomb.

Then he came...

He said,

"The only problem is believing in me."

He called Lazarus, and Lazarus rose!

He can call me. I'll hear him.

But you, René, will be deaf.

No one will call you.

Get down on your knees.

I don't believe in God!

And my worst sin is not my crime, it's my arrogance.

A man who stands tall and never kneels.

Well, look!

What are you doing?

Each to his faith, Lily.

I bow before human misery.

How you have been, Mr Brunel?

Why greet a guilty man?

I have no principles. Take a seat.

That'll be all.

Sorry to have bothered you.

I want to ask you an absurd question. Ludicrous even.

What time is it?

I don't understand.

It's perfectly simple, though. What time is it?

Inspector, I don't know, Maybe 11.15 or thereabouts.

Just as I thought.

Thank you, Mr Brunel. That was all.

You see, every day, I get tons of anonymous letters.

And among them, I found this.

"Dear Inspector, to solve the Orvet case,

"just call in Mr Brunel and ask him what time it is.

"Yours sincerely..."

Do you understand it?

Since I'm a conscientious cop, I figured if I could...

- Done! - He talked?

It wasn't easy.

Go get him, then.

It's strange how things turn out, huh?

Mrs Orvet's murderer confessed.

So it's you who bumped off the old lady?

Yes, it was.

So sit down and talk.

He said talk!

I did it.

You watched the stairs.

You spent a week planning it. Just say it!

I watched the stairs.

You went down, spoke to the janitor then snuck back upstairs.

I snuck back upstairs.

What about the blood? Come on, tell us!

The blood was gushing out. I took the blotter...

I had gloves on.

It's like these gentlemen said.

What's amusing in our job is the surprises.

Like in a show, there are coups de theatre.

Where's the jewelry?

I got scared. I threw it in the river.

But you kept an earring to pay for liquor and the movies.

Yes, for liquor... and to go to the movies.

He signed the lot. We didn't lay a finger on him.

He signed this too.

How long did you work on him?

Hours. We went easy on him.

He ate and smoked when he liked.

We worked patiently.

- How many were you? - Four.

Leave him be and let him go sleep.

Come on, buddy, that's it.

Well, it's up to the judge and the jury now.

We, Mr Brunel, did our best.

Why are you lowering that?

So no one disturbs us.

I would rather leave.

I didn't force you to come and I won't force you to stay.

We can meet anywhere but your apartment.

As you wish.

I told you the police suspected your brother,

simply suspected him. But I have proof.

Are you still leaving?

Lock the door yourself. I insist.

I'm not forcing you though.

May I have the key back?

Thank you. Why don't we go upstairs?

- How about a drink? - No, thank you.

I'm thirsty. Mind if I do?

If René did such a thing, he must have his reasons.

Yes. For a tiny room, too much arrogance...

and boldness.

But he's a nice boy so full of remorse, it's touching.

And will the police arrest him?

That depends on me.

And on you, by extension...

He can still be saved, then?

Very easily. He can go to Switzerland to study.

I have 5,000 dollars here for you.

- On condition... - Please just give me the money.

That'd be a lovely gesture, but I'm incapable of it. Forget Jean.

You know I can't.

And I can't forget about you.

One of us must make sacrifices. Frankly I'd rather it were you.

John won't die if you leave him but if I lose you...

You already have lost me!

I sent the police an anonymous letter.

You're vile!

How strange! When I'm honest, that's the word folks use.

But you, Nicole, what are you?

You agreed to marry me, now I can just die.

René, your mother and everyone else too!

I was told to be wary of you. I came all the same.

To offer me your friendship. No, thank you.

You'll pay otherwise.

- In kind. - Give me the key!

I've had my way with young girls here

in exchange for shoes, some fabric or chocolate.

You don't want me to save René from the chop?

Never!

You're too weak for me to enjoy taking advantage of you,

overpowering you.

Open the desk drawer.

Do as I say, you little fool!

I wanted to kill myself but I couldn't do it.

I may be vile, but I'm a coward.

Take it.

It's the first nice gesture in my life.

You're the stronger one now.

Defend yourself.

You think I wouldn't dare use it?

What are you waiting for? Save René and give me peace.

Move any further...

René works more cleanly.

Here's the key.

You're hurt.

It's nothing. Now go. Get out of here.

YOU'RE TOO LATE

You scared me with your note.

Get lost, Monestier.

Don't you want a gift, a nice gift?

You won't get Nicole with blackmail or gifts.

I tried both and failed.

Your watch is worthless.

You've saved my life.

No. I've saved you from the police.

They have nothing on you or me now.

I wanted to drown myself, but I couldn't do it.

There's no reason to now.

The watch was the only proof.

There's no other.

Be careful. A successful crime, you can come to terms with.

You've won.

But you and I killed for nothing.

It leaves a bitter taste, an uneasy feeling.

You mean remorse is for those who fail?

Precisely.

If I'd had Nicole by any means, I would be happy but...

I lost her. I disgust myself.

There are other girls than Nicole.

There are other moneylenders than Mrs Orvet.

You want to start over? Not me.

My spirit is broken.

I have fallen out with myself and can't stand myself.

It's far more unpleasant than trouble with the police.

So long.

Has he killed himself?

No.

Who's too late, then?

You.

Actually, I think I've come too soon.

Excuse me.

Hello, Mr Brunel.

I was in the area so I thought I'd pay you a visit.

To ask me the time?

I pawned my watch. It was stolen and thrown away.

When are you going to leave me alone?

Aggressive, confident...

Usually, you're Napoleon after the Battle of Waterloo.

Now it's more like after Rivoli.

I'm starting to know you. Your game doesn't scare me!

But if it amuses you... What d'you want to know?

Your thoughts on the painter's confession.

Honestly?

We always speak openly.

It may surprise you, but I don't believe a word.

Your men could have extracted even more astonishing confessions!

What a missed opportunity to resolve other cases.

True, but you know what he risks if we don't help him?

You should've stopped that awful interview!

What if I didn't to put Mrs Orvet's killer

in a situation that's... delicate?

Go find him, then. Appeal to his heart.

That's what I am doing.

So...

you know who it is.

It's you.

You're playing the same game your men played.

It's a bit more subtle maybe, but it's the same thing.

Luckily, I've got nerves of steel. You can go to hell!

Rivoli, Austerlitz, Wag ram...

and it always ends with St Helena.

If I killed Mrs Orvet, prove it!

If you're sure, arrest me.

Just so you can sleep and eat again, OK!

Several times, you almost confessed to it.

But I don't need confessions, I need proof!

And you're going to give it to me.

You must be mad!

Maybe. Anyway...

I will just wish you a peaceful night,

without thinking about the guy in jail.

- What if I flee? - You'll come back.

You can't live without me now.

You love to be unhappy.

See you soon.

By the way,

if you do decide to disappear for good,

leave a note with proof...

for the young painter.

Thanks in advance.

I'm the last girl on the quayside.

You won't find anyone else.

What's your name?

If that's true, you're the last person I shall ever see.

You have pretty eyes, beautiful hair...

Just the type I liked.

But it's too late.

Things will work out!

Lily, I have some money.

Lots of lovely dollars.

But I can't use dollars where I'm going. Here...

Buy yourself some dresses, hats, and ribbons.

Where did you get that?

Do what you like with it.

For me, no more questions, no more problems.

It's over for me, Lily.

5,000 dollars!

You don't know the man?

No. He seemed to be suffering.

He vanished, then I heard a gunshot.

Something incredible happened.

There was proof against me, but it no longer exists.

We'll able to live peacefully in Switzerland.

We have to leave tonight, Lily.

You have the money. Go.

Without you?

Yesterday we were lost, but not anymore.

A miracle has occurred.

- You don't believe in miracles! - But in luck.

The tide has turned.

But you'd go back to the quayside

and I'd turn myself in? You've gone mad!

Just keep the money.

You want us to stay here and go stir crazy?

Well, I want to live!

I'll never stop you believing.

Get your strength, but don't turn it against us.

A chance, a little chance had been given to us,

but to refuse it would be foolish!

Chance isn't what I see.

God isn't mad, René.

By destroying the proof, He has given you a choice.

To save yourself or the man in jail.

God did nothing!

The watch was a stroke of luck, as was the money!

You don't need me. You needed the 5,000. Take it,

and your luck too!

I agree I was wrong, but your reasons are worthless!

I don't want to torment myself.

I'm tired, Lily.

If you won't come, I'll go alone.

Alone? How ever will you leave the old lady?

Wherever you go, she will be at your side.

Be quiet.

It's still the same thing.

You must choose between her and me.

It's you, René dear!

Mother, I came to tell you...

- Take off your coat. - No. I'm in a hurry.

At least I've seen you, I've touched you...

I've stocked up on happiness for a few days.

- Aren't you hungry or thirsty? - No, I...

Mother!

Don't worry, darling, I shan't torment you more.

You're too clever for me. I can't follow your reasoning.

I've made up my mind once and for all.

Whatever you do is fine.

Mother, I have to go.

Go? Far away?

- For long? - I don't know.

But where you're going, will you have a steady job?

I'll write to you.

Can't I come visit?

No.

Mother, you'll hear things about me. Don't listen, don't believe them.

My name will be in the papers.

Don't even read a line.

You'll be in the papers and...

No, no.

Stay by the hearth and don't believe anything!

Just think of me as before.

Love me as you did before.

But before what, René?

Mother...

someone's waiting for me.

I have to go now.

Nicole - who's out with Jean -

is going to ask me why and where you went.

Stay where you are,

smile

and think of me affectionately.

You're making me cry. It's all too sudden.

Tomorrow, I'll be strong. I'll read nothing, listen to no one.

I'll wait for you.

Will it be long, son?

Maybe, yes.

Then I'll wait for you just as long as I can.

I have to go.

Go, darling, go.

Go. Wrap up warm. It's cold at night now.

Didn't you tell her?

I couldn't.

You can still choose.

Come in.

Inspector, I've come to tell you two things.

Yes, two.

It'd be simplest to start with the first.

Firstly, I hold the police in contempt.

Its job is to maintain order,

which means keeping the rich rich and the poor in poverty!

And I shall never accept that.

What was the other thing?

Well, I...

Excuse me, I...

Andre Lesure didn't kill Mrs Orvet.

Here's the proof.

I pawned my watch.

I went back the next day.

I took it after.

After?

Yes, after.

Thank you.

As contemptible as we are, we shall say

you came to get André Lesure out of a tight spot...

of your own accord.

Believe me, Mr Brunel, order is essential.

Your hands.

Subtitles: Susannah Rooke for Eclair Group