Original subtitles

THE TRUTH

Brichet! Court today!

Her and her bloody doors!

Marceau! Court today!

You've a hard day ahead of you.

Go to hell!

All yours!

Leave her alone; you know she's up for trial today.

She's your pet, but I'm no thief or killer.

I know; you're here for being so kind-hearted.

- We'll all suffocate here - They're opening up at the back.

My apologies, Madame.

Would you open it?

I'll have to ask the chief.

I'll be responsible.

Thank you so much. I couldn't see from back there.

Of course, you lawyers must find it all very boring.

Not till our facilities fail.

What a ham Eparvier is.

Mainstay of the grieving mother.

She nearly fainted outside.

Eparvier probably tipped off a photographer.

- Where were you? - With our client.

Leaving me to rescue Madame Boutereau.

She means five million a year to us. Rather more than this Dominique Marceau.

- What did she say? - She still wants to explain.

She'll see reason in the dock, they all do.

- I doubt if she will - Then we're in for it.

It's a great profession, apart from the clients.

- Doesn't look too tarty, does she? - No, but she's still a looker.

That's bad; see the jurors?

Object to those women.

Happy with my paper today?

What faces! Just what I need.

Who's for it today? Witnesses? Accused?

I give everybody a hard time, especially with him on the other side.

Demand the maximum penalty, you'll get it if you press.

What's up your sleeve?

I thought you told me they didn't get on.

Wait and see.

Name, age and profession.

Dominique Marceau, twenty-two years old.

Profession?

Clerk, proceed with the selection of the jury.

The preliminaries will take an hour.

Waiting and more waiting It gets on my nerves.

Try to relax, you'll need all your nerve soon enough.

I draw lots for the jury.

First juror. Monsieur Verdier, number seven.

- Madame Tardy - Objection.

- Madame Galon - Objection.

- The shysters! - You're young.

What do you make of her?

A bitch. Premeditated murder, obviously.

If Guerin wins, she'll get five years and be out in eighteen months.

It's a gift.

Eparvier doesn't give, he could make it life.

Or worse.

That's tomorrow's story, first we must write today's.

Kindly vacate the benches for observers.

The jury will rise.

Swear before God to examine most carefully the charges.

Prejudice neither the accused's interests nor the state's.

Communicate with no one until your verdict is delivered.

Entertain no malice, decide according to your conscience...

...with impartiality, as benefits free, honest men...

...and thereafter remain silent as to your deliberations.

Let the accused...

...hear the charges.

The Clerk will read the commission for trial.

On 15th October, 1959, the Indictments Office of Paris...

...in pursuance of the charges against Dominique Morceau...

With a girl like that, truth may be the best defence.

What truth?

That this case is about a couple of kids.

I'm not going to come a cropper to please that little ninny.

My line is that Gilbert was a rat, determined to have her.

He turned her head...

...but once she saw through him, she pulled the trigger...

The old story.

Invariably.

On 15th December, 1958, the police received a call...

...from Andre Mortineou. a friend of Gilbert Tellier.

Martineau had already warned Tellier of possible danger.

Don't practise too late, the neighbours have complained.

Has Monsieur Tellier gone out?

No, a blonde visited him.

Have you a key?

What a smell of gas.

An accident?

I'll turn off the gas.

She's here! Call the police.

I'd let her croak.

- She's pretty far gone - Are we doing her a favour?

She wouldn't suffer.

Very convenient.

Dominique Morceau has been committed for trial...

...at the Seine Court of Assizes...

...and ordered to be held in custody...

...to await judgement according to the law

Stand.

You are, therefore, accused of murder...

...and may suffer penalty of death.

Proceed with the examination.

Born 12th October, 1939, in Rennes, where you lived until eighteen.

Your father being on active service...

...your mother raised you and your sister, Annie.

Character witnesses all offer the some testimony.

Selfishness, instability, sullenness, ingratitude at home.

Yet you led a pampered, happy life.

Yes, but I was...

Mistreated?

No, it was dreary.

She was always the good one.

From childhood you hated her.

I have here an account of a typical incidents.

Your sister was given a beautiful doll.

You stole this doll and tore out its hair...

...poked out its eyes...

...and dismembered it with alarming ferocity.

Murdering a doll! Well, well!

Counsel, please!

I was eight.

Already jealous of your sister.

No one gave me anything.

Because you didn't deserve it, but Annie worked hard.

She found learning things easy I didn't.

You never took pains, unlike your sister.

Gentlemen, Annie worked at her lessons and learnt the violin.

You roamed the street with boys, scandalizing the town.

That's easy to do in Rennes.

By bringing a scandalous book like The Mandarins to school?

We passed it around, but it was pretty boring stuff.

Didn't it surprise or shock you?

Your Honour, a page at random page 74

His lips teased my breast, my stomach, moved lower...

I succumbed to pleasure...

Your Honour, three carefully chosen lines out of 600 pages.

- Aren't they in the book? - It won the Goncourt Prize!

Would you give it to your daughter?

Is Simone de Beauvoir on trial here?

We are not here to censure you for your reading.

I'm glad to hear it.

But this episode caused your expulsion from school.

More idle then ever, you paid no heed to your father, now retired.

You frequented cafes, went to the cinema three times a week.

Soon this life of dissipation had a logical consequence:

...you took a lover.

I told the magistrate that.

You did indeed. Strange that the young man denies it.

Poor Henri.

It's usually the other way round. However, the man is now married.

People started talking, you left to escape the consequences.

What consequences? That had nothing to do with it.

Annie was going to the Paris Conservatory. I seized my chance.

If Annie's going, why shouldn't I?

I might as well drop dead.

Don't talk like that.

Your hands are all thumbs As for your brain...

- I'll be a secretary - You can't type.

There are shops, beauty parlours...

A manicurist? No daughter of mine!

- What's to become of me? - What indeed?

I'd be earning sooner than Annie if I was a beautician.

I'd pay you back for the trip after a month.

I'll go anyway.

And I'll box your ears!

You'll regret it!

Excellent stew

Good night, dear. Go straight to bed.

You'd have got your way if you'd played your cards right.

You're not asleep.

Don't be silly, it's not my fault.

Don't be ridiculous.

That's enough!

Dominique, answer me! Say something!

You weren't serious, were you?

Wanting to die is serious.

But your motives are in doubt.

- It was an act - A farce!

You call that a farce?

I call it a tragedy when an eighteen-year-old takes Veronal!

The doctor described the suicide attempt as theatrical.

Theatrical, but not faked I quote:

The patient was semi-comatose It was a lethal dose.

If you quote, please quote in full.

... A lethal dose, but the patient was in no danger.

I'm waiting. Aren't you going to read it all?

I will, then.

... The patient was in no danger...

... Thanks to prompt medical intervention.

...lmplying: "because I arrived in time"

She counted on it.

Neither doctor nor parents doubted her sincerity.

The proof is that they let her have her way.

Your parents made the sacrifice and sent you to Pans.

La Chapelle; an hour from town.

A remote suburb, but clean and wholesome...

... where you found cheap but comfortable lodgings.

Will you be long?

Can't you help me?

Some comfort this is!

Happy scraping!

The easy life tempted you.

You were dazzled by the glitter of Parisian life...

... The lure of shop windows.

Not for long.

No, you soon quit the Champs-Elysees for the Left Bank.

But not in search of learning or more studious companions.

You discovered the cafe life of the Latin Quarter...

... The physical and mental abandon, the unsavoury atmosphere...

...and the false camaraderie.

This promiscuity seemed to offer fulfilment.

The crudest advances didn't offend you.

Far from being shocked, you felt at home with such depravity.

You flourished, made friends...

... Found your milieu.

You returned there day after day...

... Meeting others like yourself, whom you call "the gang"

Get lost.

My own room's freezing.

- Who's standing treat? - Be my guest.

Such generosity; I'll make a note.

You're in his novel.

- And there it'll stay - The idea's the thing.

What's it about?

My work? It's about life.

- A big subject - You've said it!

- Cant you shut up? - I'm looking for a beat.

- After studying music all day! - I'm no good at music.

You play?

I'd rather drop dead!

What do you do, then? It's for my novel.

I don't do anything much.

So you broke your promise to your parents.

What promise?

Weren't you going to work to pay your way?

What does that mean?

I attended a course for beauticians.

For one week.

I'm not my best in the mornings.

So your lazy and licentious habits led you to crime.

To escape your sister's good example. you stayed out.

- Do you ever think of suicide? - Of course. Everyone does.

Me, too, whenever I take the Metro.

I don't want to go home.

What are you going to do, then?

I could stay with you.

I warn you. it's very small. The bed. Too.

- Hello, Daisy - Does she live here?

Got a light, Michel?

Lovely stain, isn't it?

And how do you like my mobile?

- It's something to look at - Barbaste made it for me.

- Barbe who? - You don't know him.

What's this rope?

It's what we were talking about: a noose.

- Will you use it soon? - There's no hurry.

I think hanging's an ugly method.

- We'll be squashed up I can sleep anywhere.

- Don't you work in the evening? - I never work, I think.

Funny, we don't say much, but we get on OK

All these rockets will end up in fireworks.

You're sweet. Do you want to?

Just as friends.

Maybe we get along because we aren't capable of loving.

I'm fed up!

Washing in the basin, stockings on my music stand, jam on my Mozart!

Sleep around if you like, but don't mess up this place!

You pinch my cologne, throw the soap around.

You don't wash that often.

And now the sugar's gone.

I finished it.

Couldn't you buy some? You've plenty of time to go shopping.

Take it easy.

It's early closing. Without me, you'd die of hunger.

Of joy, you mean.

I'm looking for Annie Marceau.

She's just gone out.

You can wait here, she won't be long.

You can come closer. I don't bite.

Are you Dominique? I'm Gilbert Tellier.

I heard your record, I thought I had the wrong door.

It's not Annie's scene. She's a square.

- Me, too - No kidding!

I can't stand your sort of music.

It sends me.

Hasn't Annie mentioned me?

No, the hypocrite. Are you a violinist, too?

No, piano, organ and composition. And now, conducting.

Being a soloist is fine, of course...

...but one serves music best by conducting.

- I'm boring you - No, it's interesting.

Do you see Annie often? Have you screwed yet?

Don't talk like that! Annie's a nice girl.

So what are you waiting for? It might make her nicer.

She's fine as she is, a wonderful friend.

We go to concerts and we work together.

It must be a riot.

But there's more to life than fooling around.

Enough of your high principles. You're made for each other.

I've seats for the concert: Markevitch conducting Bartok.

See you in the foyer.

You've gone too for! I put up with it when we're alone...

...but in front of my friends...

What will he think? I'm ashamed of you.

All for that pompous fool.

I like that! He's the most gifted student in the school.

Here we go again!

No, that was the last straw

You won't find me here when you get back!

Fine!

Casting all respectability aside, you joined your lover, Michel Delaunay.

Wasn't Michel Delaunay your lover?

Didn't he live at the Hotel Boileau?

You lived there, therefore you went to him.

No, I lived in Daisy's room.

We shared the rent. As for Michel...

...that was long over.

You became his mistress only a week previously.

Something like that.

You'd parted already?

What happened?

It was over, that's all.

You still saw him.

I saw him before, I saw him after What of it?

It's beyond my comprehension.

According to you, Gilbert arrived at the hotel one day...

...quite unexpectedly.

Annie had sent him.

She denies that.

Something wrong?

No, but is everything all right now with your sister?

Yes, she's living with her gang at the Hotel Boileau.

- Do you care? - No, but it was my fault.

If she does anything foolish, I'll feel sort of responsible.

Forget about it.

It's wonder-boy.

More like this.

- What brings you here? - I'd like a word with you.

I think he wants a word in private.

Very discreet, your friends.

A virtue I practise on occasion. Exeunt.

Are you smoking pot?

I'm burning incense. I hate draughts, so I keep the window closed.

Don't put yourself out, do you?

No. Is that what you came to tell me?

Your sister sent me, she's worried about you.

Couldn't she come?

Afraid of meeting your lover, perhaps.

Michel? Not any more.

He seems to be in close attendance.

We don't do much now, we play footsy. I like that.

And he likes my breasts, but that's all.

If you think you shock me...

What do I do, then?

You interest me, you're a rather amusing case.

You think I'm an easy lay? I must get dressed.

Already? It's only half past three.

I'm starving. With bores, all you can do is eat.

Does every guy you meet want to sleep with you right away?

Right away?

It would be simplest, wouldn't it?

You're not the type.

You detest me, don't you?

Less so now, can I have the one with cheese?

Two, even.

He's loaded, he gives piano lessons to rich kids.

Three of them.

And your cold cuts?

He means I play the organ at funerals.

He feeds off human misery.

Good luck! I do baby-sitting.

Mother goes to the pictures and I change their nappies.

Where did you get that fantastic shirt?

From a grateful girl.

No, talented. A free sample.

He is gifted.

You're impossible.

- Why are you here, then? - He's in love, obviously.

It doesn't suit him.

You love being handled.

He's jealous, poor thing.

Are you free tonight?

No, not tonight.

No, there's no one with me.

I'm going to see a film with a guy All right, then!

Who are you going to see a film with?

With a nutcase.

You're a stuffed-shirt, but you're sweet.

Can I come in?

Daisy will be there.

Don't you like the idea?

It's just that you're so serious, it's different.

I love you, in spite of all your faults, is that bad?

No, I like everything. I like being loved, too.

Prove it.

Come in. Just in the nick of time.

I get the idea.

How long will you make him dance?

I don't know, I'm playing it by ear.

You refused him for two weeks To make yourself more desirable?

A ruling. Your Honour.

After what period of time may a girl give herself?

Three days is too short, too easy.

Two weeks is too long, too provocative.

Is there any precedent in law?

Allow your client to reply.

Mademoiselle, you are not exactly virginal.

Why did you put off the only man you claim to have loved?

I felt it should be different with him.

So that's why.

A self-imposed celibacy for your great love...

...a sort of engagement.

That's right.

No, you know very well what I'm driving at.

Can't you look where you're going?

- Business is good, eh? - Better than studying.

How about a ride round the block?

He's crazy.

- You fancy his bike - He's not bad, either.

You make me sick.

Jealous.

Forget it. They all fall for such things.

Can't you stop that row?

Can't we have some fun?

I have to get up early in the morning.

Go to bed earlier, it'll sweeten your temper.

In three seconds you'll hear them.

Twenty eight, twenty nine...

What are they up to?

- Let's go, it's pointless - Fancy going off with such a drip!

- We've been jilted - An accident?

Not the fatal sort.

And you didn't die.

Was it right to betray Gilbert?

But I wasn't his mistress.

So there was no question of engagement.

Why not say: "I enjoyed teasing a timid lover"?

It's not true. I just felt like going for a ride with Louviers.

You became lovers on the bike?

It's easy to poke fun.

Despicable, too. You're here to defend the deceased's memory...

...not to conduct the prosecution don't forget you're a lawyer.

I merely wish to establish the truth.

This is my examination.

To get back to Louviers...

It meant nothing.

Perhaps it did to Gilbert.

There you are!

I wondered where you were.

If you want to sleep with a girl, running after her is no good.

If I were you I'd get drunk.

You're probably right.

Where have you been?

Only that I've waited all night.

- That's your affair - We'll see. Get in.

- Are you mad? - I've a wedding at eleven.

In bed?

Was it good?

Are you going to work through the whole list of them?

Slut!

I'm not sorry I came along, it's nice.

- We said no. It's nicer this way - What do you take me for?

You want to be added to the list? Come on!

Come on, then it'll be over and done with.

Get up, Daisy, we need the bed.

Good morning, anyway.

Warmed and ready.

It's me! Do you think I might be allowed in my room?

Not now. Later.

You know... I'd never have believed it.

Me, neither.

It's almost ready. What's the matter with you?

I think I'm in love.

- Can one go in? - If you keep quiet.

Annie, can't you count?

The horns are weak.

Not bad at all, but still a little tense.

I haven't finished yet.

Keep a stronger rein on the orchestra, or it will run away.

See your sister? Gilbert's a fast worker.

I didn't know you were so fond of music.

Forgive me. Annie...

Bitch! You're worse than I thought.

Try to understand.

I do! You're quite disgusting! Good luck!

You were wonderful.

Annie looks furious.

She's upset, of course.

How silly of her. Poor Annie.

Women are so complicated.

Have you got a handkerchief? I'm drenched.

Nothing smaller?

We haven't seen much of you lately.

I've been rather busy.

So I see. Well, we've been discussing your project.

I think it'll work. You can count on thirty of the best lads.

I've been trying to convince them for weeks.

Well, now you've done it.

Hear that? They have faith in me to form an orchestra.

I'll have my own orchestra.

It's a funny feeling.

Before, I wasn't sure, I was nervous.

Now I'm quite confident.

Marvellous, isn't it?

I feel at home here. I can breathe.

Some days everything goes right.

You are so beautiful.

I can't live without you any longer. We'll get married.

So soon? At twenty?

We'll have all the longer to be happy.

I thought of you all night, I didn't sleep a wink.

I'll never let you go again You're mine, no matter what.

I'm trying to understand your feelings.

Didn't you go to the Conservatory to taunt your sister?

All I wanted was to see Gilbert.

Yet you refused his offer of marriage.

I didn't. All I was thinking about was being happy.

Isn't happiness compatible with respectability?

Is marriage so respectable?

Perhaps not to you, but when Gilbert asked for your hand...

...he seemed to think so.

He never asked formally.

He dazzled her with the idea...

...when he was penniless and knew she couldn't accept.

Was Gilbert sincere that day, or wasn't he?

- I'm asking your client - I forbid her to answer.

- Very prudent - I'm an old hand.

Naturally she believed Gilbert, or she wouldn't be here.

That proves her credulity, not that Gilbert was sincere.

A question for your client...

...although I know she won't answer.

Did Gilbert tell her of his intention? Introduce Dominique?

But he did tell his landlady he was engaged.

But that was just so we could be together at his place.

- Hear that? - I'm not deaf.

Listen, the first entrance.

See what he conjures out of nothing?

Got a film magazine?

But this is Bach, my darling.

I like reading while I listen.

You're just being difficult What really gets you?

Marlon Brando.

Three rotten shows in two weeks is enough.

What shall we do, then?

Go home.

Don't you love me any more?

That's all you think of! I'm a person, too, you know

Of course you are.

Yes, in bed. There's more to life than that.

I want to go out, have fun. see my friends, dance.

I've seen no one since you fell in love with me.

I've no time to waste with your friends. I've too much work to do.

I've fallen behind over the weeks.

Love is two people.

Between your music and your mattress. I'm stifling.

Get some air, then.

You don't have to say it twice. I'm off right now

See you tomorrow

Who do you think you are?

I didn't chase you. I'm leaving for good.

I don't know where she is.

She left in a huff three days ago.

It was silly, I know, but that was no reason...

...especially on an anniversary two months, I'd bought a present.

So had I

She's here now, Daisy.

Who were you with for the last three days?

The gang, as usual.

Stop pretending. Look in the mirror.

What about that shirt?

Where did you get that shirt? I recognize it.

Everyone knows it's Jerome's. So what?

So what?

You're mad! Stop it! You're hurting me!

I'm sick of this!

So am I. I never want to see you again, you slut!

A dreadful scene, her screams would have woken the dead.

I told poor Gilbert this couldn't go on...

...and she wasn't to come again.

He understood, he didn't argue.

- Anything more? - I don't think so.

Prosecution, any questions?

Do you know the reason for such violent scenes?

Her constant infidelity.

A good-for-nothing. Why?

How should I know?

Infidelity with all comers is a way of life.

But when a faithful woman lapses once, there must be a reason.

A moment of weakness? Did you lose your head?

Over Jerome?

It was silly. We were in my room.

I tried on his shirt and wouldn't give it back. We fought and...

- You kept the shirt? - He could hardly refuse.

Did other shirts follow?

What do you think I am?

A liar. You never loved Gilbert.

That explains your constant infidelity.

Constant? Only this one miserable instance has emerged...

...and she volunteered it, she led a free and easy life.

But is she being tried for that or for murder?

Stop pleading crime passionel and I'll renounce my brief.

She flouted Gilbert's love too often to play the injured party.

Gilbert's love...

Let's talk about Gilbert's love.

You said you gave Gilbert a choice: Dominique or the flat?

That's right.

- He chose the flat - But didn't stop seeing her.

He saw her only on the sly.

- For what he wanted - There we agree! Thank you!

Next witness.

Ludovic Toussaint. Thirty, restaurant owner.

You are not related to the accused, your employee.

You swear to tell the whole truth. Raise your right hand.

Give your testimony.

How did you meet the accused?

She wanted work. Her father had cut her off.

Parents ditch you when they've had enough of you.

I must do something.

It's not her fault and I love her for it.

It won't feed her.

The man should keep her.

I hope to later on, but meantime...

- Confectioner seeks salesgirl - References required.

Under-presser.

- What's that? - They'll explain.

Salesgirl, lingerie, Champs-Elysees, good appearance.

Qualified... Specialized... e xperienced...

Attractive girl wanted as cloakroom attendant.

I'm serious, my girl's ill.

- What place is it? - The Sputnik.

We'll let you know

- What's wrong? - I forbid you to accept.

Gorgeous shoes! Fantastic diamonds!

Some diamonds, for 8.500 francs!

What a way to live.

Earning money without getting up early? It's terrific.

I work by day, we never see each other.

If you like it that way.

It's freezing outside.

If I get a chill, will you nurse me?

I think I'm feverish already.

- You find that funny? - I like getting lips.

- Charming! - What's wrong?

You stringing the customers along.

Two hundred francs buys a smile. It's disgusting.

What will five hundred buy me?

Whatever you like.

What I'd really like is to clout you.

Your friend's getting on my nerves.

A packet of Camels.

- Where do you live? - Rue Antoine Dubois.

She'll go far, that girl.

- Is that necessary? - Don't you like it?

It's not that I don't like it, but I love Gilbert.

For real?

Anyhow, I'm more than a little tied up myself.

Stop spoiling our one free evening together.

Our life together is spoiled anyway.

- Because of where I work? - Not only that, it's you, too.

What about yesterday?

I'm twenty and I love dancing.

- Not with me - You can't.

You really want me to?

We'll go to a great place tonight.

Not tonight; I'm rehearsing.

You do it on purpose.

First your grant, then your mother, now you're rehearsing.

The hall is free.

So am I. Choose.

I can't.

Forty people depend on me. You must understand.

Just one evening.

I haven't the right.

I don't care if we stay here till four in the morning!

You've caught cold.

The hall was freezing. They rehearsed till three.

- You should have left - Gilbert would have yelled.

I couldn't, anyway, he's so happy when he's conducting.

All he cares about is himself, he's ambitious.

No, he's nice. Sometimes I forgot everything, just listening.

- You were asleep - You think I'm stupid.

I like serious music sometimes. you know

If he's busy next Tuesday, I'll take you out - Strictly platonic.

Saint-Eustache. The Mass in D

It can't have flown away.

You lost it here?

It's not in the hotel.

I've looked everywhere It can only be here.

How do you know?

Because I do! Don't get in my way.

Look everywhere. We must find it.

Lost something?

I look as though I'm blind in one foot.

- Looked in the sawdust? - I've swept everywhere.

Is Dominique here?

Come and look.

Guess where I found it.

On the pavement outside.

She's so lucky.

What are you doing here?

Adding the boss to your collection?

You're.

Don't be a fool.

You've both made a fool of me, haven't you?

- A lift one night... - Every night!

- So what? - Who cares?

I ought to punch you, but I don't care any more.

I swear I've done nothing wrong. I love you.

You're lying, as always.

Don't look at me like that.

I shall. And I see you as you are.

You're wrong. Let me explain.

I'm finished with you.

I certainly can. I'm free!

Free and glad of it. So good night and thanks!

You've got it all wrong, Gilbert.

You really mean it?

Yes, I'm tired of your stories.

I'm fed up, too. If you want to leave me, leave me!

The bastard!

- Where shall we go? - Anywhere. I'll show him!

- Saint-Eustache? - Yes, let's go there.

But you didn't go, did you?

No, I look Dominique to Montmartre for a nightcap.

You ended up at the Hotel Radio.

Was she reconciled to the break?

No, she wanted revenge. I shouldn't have... But I obliged.

You jumped at the opportunity.

However, your employees say you were lovers before.

That's untrue.

I'll get him.

This sudden affair ended there? You didn't try to see her again?

I phoned, but was always told she was ill.

Later on she returned to The Sputnik.

- And after that? - I saw her around.

Prosecution, any questions?

When she was in your employ, would you say she was truly in love?

I'm sure she worshipped Gilbert.

- There were quarrels - Gilbert was to blame.

- For no reason? - He always found one.

An over-generous tip, a joke, a smile.

He even reproached her for working at night.

- He could have changed that - Perhaps he lacked means.

Still, he could have helped her.

If she needed shoes, she starved for a week to buy them.

For the first time...

...we hear of a mean, unjust Gilbert Tellier...

...and a faithful, loving Dominique Marceau.

Your relations with the accused explain but do not excuse your attitude.

On a point of detail.

Did you tell the police of your visit to the Hotel Radio?

No, I didn't think it mattered.

What I'm getting at is that you saw it mattered...

...when you were confronted with the hotel register.

You say: "She wasn't my mistress until Gilbert broke with her"

I wonder if that is true, or whether "it didn't matter"?

You're beneath contempt.

Still, I'm looking down on you.

Let's consider this "friendship"

You offer a lovely, penniless girl a job. You don't expect any reward?

I don't exploit people.

Yet later you asked her, in a "friendly" way, to be your mistress.

She refused; I wasn't angry.

On the contrary, you became even friendlier.

Gilbert makes more scenes at The Sputnik.

You ignore them, friendly like...

...and drive off with the accused in the early hours, as friends.

She was tired. I drove her home.

Do you drive all your staff home?

It was on my way.

And, anyway, you were friends. Why keep it from Gilbert?

He might have misunderstood.

No doubt. So he had no reason to suspect you...

...yet one morning he's lurking outside The Sputnik; in jest, no doubt.

Then he breaks with her.

- For no reason, it seems - I've answered on oath.

Where you're concerned, an oath...

Ludovic Toussaint, age thirty. That is you?

Previous oath: I solemnly declare I never had sexual relations...

... with Dominique Marceau, before or after her break with Tellier.

That is the honest truth.

The honest truth, on oath. It was a lie.

You understand...

We all understand you, sir.

The defence.

Shall we forget the rhetoric and reason this out?

My colleague says your affair with Dominique began earlier.

In that case, would she have broken with you and Gilbert simultaneously?

Of course not.

She broke with you, regretting having gone with you in pique.

Remorseful, the next day she locks herself in her room.

She says nothing to Gilbert?

She wants to see him, but doesn't dare call him.

She has a guilty conscience, she doesn't know what to do.

Still in bed?

I think it's flu.

But nervous breakdowns are expensive.

- Where are your coats? - I sold everything.

It's holiday time...

... But Dominique stays put.

Daisy is in America, a foreigner has replaced her.

For two months I've paid the rent I'd like you to stay, but...

Keep my trunk, I shan't need it.

Have a roll and coffee a small one.

- How are you? - Not too good.

You look all in.

It looks as though I'll have to sleep at the station again tonight.

Nothing doing at my place.

- What about your place? - You're a nuisance.

You can stay tonight, but find another sucker tomorrow

Go to hell!

You're going about it all wrong.

Do you like sleeping rough?

Look, see that man with glasses?

He's a Yank.

He's come to Paris for a good time; room with bath, probably.

You're dressed up. How was your Yank?

I've just seen him off.

- It didn't last long - Four days were enough.

- Where were you? - At the Mondova.

We looked everywhere for you; your father's had an accident.

The undertaker should have removed everything.

It looks as if there's been a hurricane.

Go and rest; I'll tidy up.

It's so unjust, but I'll bear up.

My poor Marcel, what shall I do without him?

You managed well enough without him for years.

When I married an officer...

...I didn't think of wars.

You're not to blame.

That's all I need.

Don't be sad; I'm here.

You're my one comfort.

And now you're getting married.

Not right away.

Anyway, you'll visit us often.

Annie's engaged?

You're engaged?

To Gilbert Tellier.

Congratulations.

They'll make music together and be happy ever after.

Art unites wonder-boy and super-girl.

It's gold medal stuff.

But he doesn't love her, he can't possibly.

What's it to you?

Your eyes are puffy.

I cried all night.

For Gilbert?

No, because I've aged.

All of a sudden?

Yes, from girl to hag.

You've started thinking? Since when?

- In the train from Rennes - Trains do that to you.

I'm more part of your youth than that creep.

You never did understand him.

It took me longer. You classified him at once as a pompous fool.

- I said that? - You slated him.

Where? When? I suppose you know better than me?

I'm a liar, but I've an excellent memory.

- Didn't I love Gilbert? - And Louviers?

I'd forgotten him, which proves that only Gilbert mattered.

Are you kidding?

Dominique was sincere.

...not one of those housewives juggling husband and lover...

...who moralizes about others.

Don't digress.

Another flop.

Dominique is here because she rejected hypocritical conventions.

You're older; you wouldn't understand.

We're different.

Young people should judge her.

Little oaf.

Please, I'm asking the questions.

The witness has a literary conception.

We may not understand young people, but we do speak French.

You claim that Dominique was sincere...

...and in despair over Gilbert after her father's funeral?

Yes I realized she had never stopped loving him.

- Prosecution? - No questions.

Perhaps I fail to appreciate the literary mind...

...but I don't understand, so I require clarification.

Am I right in thinking you're intelligent?

Good, perhaps you will explain.

You've just said you realized she had never stopped loving him.

But to never stop loving, one must have loved, right?

Did it seem like love at first sight between them?

Not immediately. Later.

When? Let me help you.

When she withheld herself? When she went off with Louviers?

When she made a fool of him with Ludovic? When she broke with him?

When she forgot her despair and turned to prostitution?

But she came back.

When she discovered he was marrying the sister she hated.

Hated? They didn't get on, that's all.

If Dominique loved Gilbert, it doesn't make sense.

After meeting him, she calls him a pompous fool.

Then three lovers in succession; odd for a woman in love.

Then the break-up.

A woman in love would do her utmost to see Gilbert again.

Strange she didn't.

She frittered away six months; six months of idleness...

...of debauchery...

...of silence.

Suddenly she can't live without him; she obtains a gun and rushes there.

It makes no sense.

But if Dominique hated her sister, if she was determined...

...to take Gilbert from her that I understand.

When they first met...

...she was lounging in bed, flaunting her nudity.

All she wanted was to lake him from Annie.

It's obvious.

She plays him on a string, and only yields...

...when he looks like turning back to Annie.

Hurriedly dressing, she scurries to the Conservatory. And why?

To present Annie with an accomplished fact.

This seems to have put paid to Annie.

But why keep on with Gilbert? He bores her.

She deceives him, she leaves him, she forgets him.

It's quite clear.

Suddenly, a revelation: Gilbert is reconciled with Annie.

He is forgiven: they're engaged. Dominique looks on...

...powerless against their happiness.

But there is still a way.

She takes it.

I'm probably very stupid and haven't your flair for drama.

"But I don't understand..." et cetera.

You want the witness's opinion of this bundle of hypotheses?

As he says, it's idiotic. Now to serious matters.

Was it Dominique who made the first advances?

No, Gilbert ran after her.

- Why was he so ardent? - He wanted to sleep with her.

Once he got what he wanted, was he attentive to her?

He kept her in purdah.

So this flighty Dominique we've heard so much about...

...gave up everything for this self-centred careerist.

She stuck to him, despite the boredom and the sermons.

Even the violence, as we've heard. To what end?

He gave her nothing.

She loved him, obviously.

After they parted, who broke down? Him?

He was too busy...

...but you saw how miserable she was.

She moped about all day...

...stunned.

I was waiting for him; he couldn't have forgotten.

I didn't dare tell anyone. Say you understand, Michel!

Well prompted.

Why do you never believe me?

I should know; I spent nights crying my eyes out.

So you say, but it is hard to believe.

Why should you cherish such a wild hope?

His notebook.

There has been no mention of a notebook before.

Gilbert Tellier Ensemble seeks oboist and bass-player for tour.

He's moved. He thinks he's made it.

He thinks he's Toscanini, the big-head.

And your big head? Lend me a pencil.

Who's calling?

Speak, for heaven's sake!

Do you know what time it is?

Three o'clock.

A social call in the middle of the night? For nothing?

Let me come in, just for a moment.

Well, what's wrong?

I said: nothing. I just wanted to see you. Hear you.

So you have. Well?

Don't you understand? I love you.

I feel wonderful with you. I've been so unhappy.

Forgive me for disturbing you, for being what I am.

Forgive me for everything, for the past...

- It's not true! - Lying, amoral...

Shameless, indecent...

Thank you for being what you are. Thank you for coming here.

Please hurry up. I'm late.

Sorry, I didn't know

I keep telling you.

I'll be ready in three minutes.

Shall we meet here tonight?

Not here. Not anywhere.

It's not because of her, is it?

Nothing so simple.

I've put up with a lot because of you.

That night with Ludovic...

I thought I'd die.

I flung myself into my work.

I forgot you, slowly; but something still remained.

As though I were hoping for what happened last night.

Now I see clearly.

You don't love me.

I think I never did.

I can't help it. I'm sorry.

It's not as bad as all that.

It's not the end of the world.

I'd hate to have hurt a pretty girl like you.

I need your name and address for my report.

Listen carefully, Madame.

The accused maintains she visited your tenant on 9th December...

...and stayed from 3 a.m. to about 10 a.m.

Untrue.

This is important.

...lf, as the accused says, she was welcomed by the victim...

...who proved his affection before sending her away...

...an element of passion might be admissible.

If not, the case will appear in a different light.

Consider carefully: could you be mistaken?

I'm positive.

The door is automatic?

Yes. People say who they are, otherwise I come out.

You are sure you weren't asleep, or distracted momentarily?

It's never happened in ten years.

And you didn't see the accused leave in the morning?

Definitely not. A neighbour does my shopping for me.

I never leave my post...

...for a moment.

You needn't look like that I'm a honest woman.

So much so, it makes me wonder.

Explain yourself.

I'll leave that for later.

The bus driver, you mean?

We're coming to that.

The morning you didn't see Dominique leave your building...

...a witness nearly ran her down in rue Docteur Barbier.

His official report was as follows:

On 9th December at 10.47 a.m. outside 3 rue Docteur Barbier...

... A young woman was almost... et cetera.

You know what it means?

It is incontestable...

...that the accused was outside number three at 10.47

Her claim to have left number nine shortly before seems plausible.

No one escapes your watchful eye?

Nothing can tear you away. You sleep with one eye open.

It's my job.

I was curious enough to have this fortress visited...

...by an officer of the court, accompanied by my colleague.

Here is his rather surprising report...

...on this open-plan fortress.

On 28th November...

... we arrive at 10 a. M. the concierge is not in.

Her office is closed.

7 th January, at 9.30 a. M. we find a note on her door:

"Back in a minute"

No tenant was able to inform us...

... when the concierge returned.

6th March...

...3 a.m.

The door opens automatically; we do not identify ourselves.

It takes us some time to find the light switch.

We walk up to the sixth floor, then walk down.

We leave without being challenged.

What cheek!

I regret we were not informed.

I'm surprised you didn't think of doing it yourself.

The crime squad is at your disposal.

I must stress the discretionary nature of these proceedings.

We cannot draw hasty conclusions from this evidence.

It merely proves that Dominique entered the street.

Anything else is simply hypothesis.

Anything which upset the Prosecution is "hypothesis"

The Prosecutor has been forbearing in his choice of phrase.

Your client's shameless lying is hardly a hypothesis.

On 9th December, the day after this supposed night of love...

...Gilbert had a date with Annie; we know where they went.

We went to publish the banns.

I'll clear the court if there's any disturbance.

We'd meant to do it before, but Gilbert was so busy.

He was rehearsing for television; he was tired and worried.

Then, that morning, he come rushing in.

He clasped me in his arms.

He said: "My darling, we've waited too long.

"You were made for me; we'll grow old together"

Now it's all over. Why did you do it?

I didn't mean to. I loved him.

What do you know about love?

I'd give my life...

Your conduct is intolerable.

You must control your grief and be quite candid.

Did Gilbert give any hint that he had seen the accused again?

No. He hid nothing from me.

He wouldn't tell you that.

I swear he took me in his arms like he used to.

It's not true! Gilbert said it was all over between them.

"I'm happy it's over", he said.

Liar! He couldn't have.

I may be pretty worthless, but you frighten me, Annie.

You're lying because your pride is hurt, you're heartless.

No, I'd like to believe you. I feel sorry for you.

Gilbert was too upright and pure to have done that.

My sister is lying.

Because you're jealous.

Of whom? Of what? Have you ever looked at yourself?

It was him and me; you didn't count.

- He was marrying me - To darn his socks.

I'm warning you for the last time.

We were happy like she'll never be.

That's why she killed him, so I'd never be happy.

She had lots of men; all I had was him.

You never had him! He never made love to you once!

Remove the accused.

With me, a thousand times!

Shut up! You killed him!

I meant to kill myself. Me, not him!

It smells good.

The last tin of sauerkraut.

- I've no cigarettes - Look in my bag.

You've lashed out a bit; that's a fancy pistol.

A present for myself. My noose.

Interesting. You've got the impulse, all right.

But suicide isn't easy; I know what I'm talking about.

You need a method, imagination and talent.

- To pull the trigger? - That's for amateurs.

You're clueless; I've rehearsed every detail of my suicide.

Yet you aren't dead.

Very nearly.

The noose was around my neck; then I looked in the mirror.

You got scared?

On second thoughts. I knew it would be a flop.

When the audience arrives, the play is over.

Suicide's for oneself, not others.

Suicide is always a protest against someone or something.

The pleasure is gone if you can't see their faces.

Yes, it should be done before a witness.

I won't be a spectator.

I didn't mean you.

Come on, let's eat.

Suicide is meaningful only if committed in good health.

You warned Gilbert his ex-mistress was armed and out to kill him?

Yet you didn't know her.

Jerome Lamy told me to worn Gilbert.

Jerome Lamy.

But he only repeated a remark by Michel Delaunay.

Michel Delaunay, too.

We must clarify the question.

Was there premeditation?

You knew her criminal intention?

Certainly not. I knew she'd bought a gun to kill herself.

Yet you, her friend, leave her with the gun.

We used to talk about suicide.

For four years I had a noose; Dominique liked the idea.

Murder didn't cross your mind?

Didn't Delaunay tell you?

Not exactly; he was just talking to some friends.

He said Dominique was armed and would do something foolish.

I thought she'd use it on herself; that's what I told Martineau.

Adding that Gilbert should be wary; but you expected suicide.

I don't like this suicide stuff.

You never know what will happen when a girl totes a gun.

You're cheerful.

Has she still a grudge?

She can't be very happy that I'm marrying her sister.

You'd better be careful. Don't go out, we'll eat here.

Eat what?

I'll buy something.

It's going to rain.

- Where do I buy wine? - Ask the concierge.

Not expecting me?

How long are you going on with this?

Make up your mind.

All right, just walk out of here without any fuss.

I've endured enough tantrums. It's all over.

Over and done with.

Don't worry. I won't bother you again. I've suffered enough, I'm exhausted.

I'll leave you in peace for ever.

All your suicide talk doesn't fool me.

How could I have thought you so wonderful?

What a creep.

What a thing to die for.

In the six months we lived together, you cheated all the time.

One day we both said: Enough. Now you decide I'm your hero.

And you want to kill yourself over me.

You must be kidding.

I can't help it if I love you.

You're just trying to ruin my life again.

But I say you're getting out, fast!

I'll throw you out.

Go to the devil! Get out!

You're crazy. You're sick.

I won't bother you again.

There you go again. You're mad!

I've had enough.

I never want to see you again.

You make me sick!

...die if you like, but make a good job of it.

The wounds are numbered as I examined them, not as inflicted.

The first was fatal and hit the thorax...

...puncturing the right lung, causing severe haemorrhage.

Continue, doctor.

I was saying that the bullet struck the thorax...

...puncturing the right lung.

It went in here and I found it there.

The second was also fatal...

- There were six altogether - You'll lose the initiative.

...hairline at a slight angle...

...entering the right temple, lodging in the base of the skull...

...damaging some brain tissue.

My client admits she fired the bullets.

This is the post mortem report.

But we agree there were six bullets, three fatal.

The veracity of human feelings is more important than technical detail.

Guerin's trying it on.

Prosecution?

The accused has never denied causing the wounds.

She denies intent to kill Tellier.

You don't insist on the report.

Do you wish to continue?

As you please.

We thank you.

Despite our respect for the Prosecution, we beg to differ.

The accused should clarify...

...certain points.

She admits she fired.

Beyond discussion, eh?

She has no recollection of the scene.

Out of mind, conveniently out of sight, is that it?

Might the accused come down before the jury...

...to mime the event, so we may see if details, trajectories...

...correspond with "veracity"?

Bring the accused.

This is hardly compatible with the dignity of these proceedings.

I am responsible for decorum here.

This reconstruction...

...is simply to help the jury to arrive at the truth.

She claims she intended to kill herself in front of Gilbert...

...but lost her head.

Let us verify that.

You were more resolute at the time.

How did you hold the gun?

To kill yourself?

Like this first.

And Gilbert got the bullet.

She doesn't really understand.

Let's begin at the beginning.

Was Gilbert far from you?

Facing you?

I don't remember.

Through the temple, doctor?

She must have shot from above.

Gilbert was collapsing?

Then it wasn't the first shot.

The only one fired horizontally, when he was still standing...

...is this one.

She doesn't remember; she fired in sudden anger.

The facts are there and prove you have lied twice.

You never mentioned suicide, he would have disarmed you.

There was no discussion, you faced him threateningly.

He said horrible things.

You fired, rapidly and fanatically.

On his knees he begs you. You shoot again.

You fire four more shots.

No?

Those four shots you were prevented from describing...

Their angle indicates that the victim had fallen.

Doctor, we thank you.

I defy anyone to claim there was time for reflection.

A hysterical woman empties the magazine. What more do you expect?

That she be honest and stop this nonsense about suicide.

But she was found at death's door.

Just in time, as usual.

You knew Martineau would return: there was no great risk.

I just rushed into the bathroom.

The man you adore might still be alive, yet you leave him.

To kill myself.

Self again.

The gun was empty.

Clever of you not to save a bullet.

She didn't count the shots.

You didn't jump out of the window; gas was less dangerous.

You knew you'd be saved.

I wanted to die!

He's got her.

Three or four failed suicides; you seemed better at murder.

You have no heart; one must be capable of love to judge love.

How dare you joke of suicide?

You depict her as a Circe Can she help her looks?

Men pursued her like game; Gilbert did, especially.

Did she encourage him?

For three weeks he harasses her.

Nothing stops him, not even her affairs.

He wants her, he takes her...

...still warm from another's embrace you call that love?

For seven months, all he offered her was his bed.

And that only for fleeting moments, not to upset his routine.

But he did propose marriage.

He risked nothing, they were too poor then.

He forgot marriage when his situation improved.

In fact, they broke up. Why?

Malicious gossip, a misunderstanding left to fester.

As Gilbert's prospects improved, Dominique became expendable.

You call that love.

This isn't the moment for your plea.

Is there a right moment for justice?

For months she goes hungry, begging, even prostituting herself.

Did he reach out a helping hand?

No, and you call that love?

One night she comes to beg forgiveness.

He allows her to hope, so as to take advantage of her.

He sends her packing.

She returns, saying she means to kill herself.

He dares her to do it.

I cannot believe in this love.

But Gilbert did love me, you just don't want to admit it!

That's the only truth.

I was stupid and I did wrong. but he did love me.

Now I don't care what happens.

Do what you like; I'm afraid of nothing.

You sit there...

...dressed up, ridiculous!

You want to judge, but you've never loved!

You hate me, because you are all dead!

This is intolerable.

So is your treatment of this poor creature.

I protest!

Your cruelty disgraces our profession.

It is seven-thirty. The court is adjourned until one tomorrow

Guerin really went for you; you didn't deserve that...

...but why were you so harsh on the girl?

Because I represent the victim's mother; I speak for her.

If it were your son who was shot, you'd understand.

Last night Dominique Marceau tried to kill herself.

She is unable to appear I shall read out her letter.

Your Honour, I must write in the dark.

If I turn on the light, I might be seen.

You may not read this...

... But I realize it's hopeless, I've always been in the wrong.

Everyone else is right: my sister, my mother, my teachers...

... And you, too.

Please forgive me.

Gilbert's mother above all. I loved only Gilbert.

I shall never love anyone again.

An easy promise, since I'm going to die.

I swear it's true, I meant to die after killing him.

I failed because I'm so clumsy.

But this time I won't fail.

And if Gilbert can still see me, he'll forgive me.

He loved me, but we didn't love each other at the same time.

That's why he's dead and I'm going to join him.

I've tried to explain...

I have just been advised...

...that Dominique Marceau is dead.

This trial is terminated.

I'm glad I'm not in his shoes.

We will be next week: the Moreau case.

Rotten luck.

An occupational hazard.