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1773.

The 18th century is fine-tuning it's last act.

Official YIFY movies site: YTS.MX

Louis XV is about to leave the stage.

Behind the scenes, Louis XVI is already getting ready.

It's the time of great ideas and bad subjects.

Pierre-Augustin Caron de Beaumarchais, son of a watchmaker and one himself,

found with Voltaire that the clocks of his time were delaying.

He was going to work to get them back on time.

-Where is the French theater, please? -Right here, my Prince.

Thank you.

THE BARBER OF SEVILLE

-Mr. de Beaumarchais, please. -He is not here. Write to him if you like.

"He took it to heart and took away my job."

"Claiming that the letters are incompatible with business."

"Powerfully reasoned."

"And you didn't make him represent…"

"I thought I was happy to be forgotten about."

"A great man does good when he does no harm."

What redundancy, but what gravity…

-Why are they so slow? -The text deserves a pause on every word.

What text?

It's not Marivaux or Voltaire. You have to be light.

Who's there? Let us work!

Not like that. I almost fell asleep.

Come on, let's take it from the start, after the song.

-"No, he's not an abbot." -"No, he is not an abbot."

-"This haughty and noble air… " -Gentlemen.

You just have to say the lines.

"It's Count Almaviva."

-"It's Figaro's rascal." -"Himself."

-"Maraud, if you say a word!" -"I recognize you."

-"That is your way of honoring me." -"I didn't recognize you, you're so fat."

"What you want is misery."

Excuse me, sir.

-I couldn't hold back. -You did the right thing.

Don't hold back in front of the author. Let's start again.

I knew it.

-The rascal! -I have a letter for you, sir!

-Give me that! -From Mr. de Voltaire!

-Do you know him? -Yes, my father is his steward.

Let us have a look, then.

"Brilliantly scatterbrained as you are…

I'm afraid you're right against everyone."

"Through your trial, you are attacking Parliament."

"My thoughts are with you."

"Receive this young Gudin who adores you."

"And who can do you a favor."

"Don't forget me, I'm thinking of you."

"Voltaire."

Voltaire…

I'm taking his orders. What can I do for you, sir?

Would you be so kind as to look at my texts?

You write, too? Everyone writes these days.

Even the filthy Baculard d'Arnaud

in this scrap that you have the audacity to bring here.

Come…

Excuse us, gentlemen.

Come on!

"The bright star of the nights closed his eyes."

"And I watch, alas, in the grip of my fantasy."

"The bright star of the nights closed his eyes."

"And I watch, alas…" "The bright star of the nights closed…"

-Miss Ménard? -Don't come in, I'm naked.

Mr. de Beaumarchais sent me.

-To do what? -To read you a poem.

-Can't he come himself? -It's that the poem is mine.

Ah…

You're writing.

He would like you to give your opinion about it.

According to him, you like young authors.

The rascal…

Go ahead. I am expected to rehearse.

The Lapliade.

That's the title of the poem.

"The bright star of the nights closed his eyes."

"And I watch, alas…

in the grip of my fantasy."

Is that all?

Come.

Right. I'm listening.

"The bright star of the nights… "

Where is this writer?

-Who's that? -Mr. de Beaumarchais, your lover!

-Leave him alone. He knows nothing. -I know everything.

-We broke up. -How did he find out?

I was desperate, he understood it…

-You will be twice! I'm going to kill him. -I beg you, Joseph!

Joseph!

Beaumarchais is at risk of death.

-Run, run! -Where to?

To his home, Rue de Condé. We have to get there before the Duke.

Come on, you moron. Just drive over them.

Excuse me.

-Is his life in danger? -I'm telling you they want to kill him!

Who wants to kill me?

-A gigantic duke. -A mountain.

A mountain? You describe it well.

-What about Miss Ménard? -She only listened to my first verse.

-And the rest? -Then the Duke broke down the door.

-He saved you. -Sorry?

Your verses are awful, Mr. Dudin. They reflect your erudition.

Nothing about real life. Nothing of our century.

And nothing of yourself.

-So why did you send me to Miss Ménard? -To hear a softer judgment than mine.

You're writing correctly, but you're thinking the wrong way.

-Has Voltaire read your work? -He gave me the honor.

What did he think?

-The same as what you think. -It's cruel.

What job did you have with him?

I prepared texts and wrote letters.

Thank you, Cézaire.

Get in. Get in, you are hired.

You haven't eaten anything.

I'll have two dinners.

Please write.

Dear Councillor Goëzman…

-Is this a new pamphlet? -No, it's a request for a hearing.

Dear Councillor Goëzman.

My appeal is imminent.

Parliament has appointed you to be my accuser.

Why not end this trial? Three years is a long time.

-Do you know the case? -For you, this trial is a pretext.

Explain.

You don't care about the Count of Blache's money.

I think… Parliament is a forum for your ideas.

And you prefer your ideas to theater.

That's not incorrect.

It's dangerous and could be bad for you.

Ferdinand!

Your father's watch.

You recognize this object?

Your father gave it to you the day the King made you his watchmaker.

-You were 22. -Do you know everything about me?

Except what you haven't experienced. And which deserves a witness.

You, perhaps?

Paris is dangerous. Too much misery, too many taxes.

We suffer in silence.

Yes, because no one wants to go to the Bastille.

You do, given your writing.

I want to prove that this parliament is corrupt.

-Can you afford to prove it? -I have a little idea.

What is this decoration?

It is for my job.

Before I am charged, I play the judge. I'm a hunting lieutenant.

-Are you a magistrate? -Aggravating circumstances.

I paid this charge. Thank you, good morning.

-Look for these honors. -I will.

-Mr. de Beaumarchais. -Thank you very much, sir.

Parliament has not forgotten me. My appeal trial will be next week.

Let's go, come on!

Gentlemen, the court.

Please sit down, thank you very much.

Right. Good morning, sir.

-Where's the plaintiff? -Here, Your Honor.

Come closer, don't be afraid.

We demolished your wall.

I had built it myself at the bottom of my meadow to discourage thieves.

Who demolished it?

Speak, sir. Don't be afraid.

-The Prince of Conti. -The Prince of Conti?

-Why did he tear it down? -To hunt, with his pack and horses.

-Lieutenant of the Hunt! -The Duke of Chaulnes, what an honor.

I'm here to avenge my honor.

Mr. Caron.

-Prepare to die. -This doesn't seem the right place.

-I don't care. You're going to die. -I'm not so sure.

Give me a moment, and please, sit down.

I won't keep an unjustly robbed man waiting.

Thank you so much.

Whereas a man,

even if he is of royal blood, cannot be above the law that governs the common man,

the court sentences Louis Bourbon, Prince of Conti,

to have this wall restored at his own expense or risk being forced to do so.

You are a good man, Mr. de Beaumarchais.

Sentencing a Bourbon to rebuild a wall is unacceptable.

I'm all yours, Duke.

Guard, would you be so kind as to lend me your sword.

Thank you very much, guard. I apologize, Duke.

-Thank you, ma'am. -Miss.

On guard, sir.

-Oh, no. -Pardon.

Mr. Duke.

Let me.

Mr. Gudin, could you do me a favor?

-Yes, sir. -Thank you so much.

I need you as a witness.

Accepting a duel with such an eminent man can get me in trouble, Mr. Dudin.

-I've already killed a man. -One, but not two.

Mr. Dudin, witness that I'm not the aggressor.

Certainly.

-Mr. Gudin! -Sir?

Call the guard. It's urgent.

Guards!

Mr. de Beaumarchais!

I'm arresting you in the name of the King.

How long can we keep him locked up?

-Until the trial. -He must not prepare his defense.

-Fear not, I'm watching. -We're paying you for that, Mr. Goëzman.

If I can't prepare for my trial, I'm a dead man.

-You must talk to Sartine. -You call it talking?

-You've done this for me before. -But never with a minister.

He's only a police lieutenant. He is far from unpleasant.

If you like him so much, you do it.

I don't like boys, and I can't go out.

Marion…

If I'm condemned, I won't be able to write.

Not even for you.

You will be condemned to vaudeville for the rest of your life.

-Marion… -Do you know what you're asking of me?

To do what you do best.

-You're despicable. -I mean acting.

I'm not asking you to love him, but to make him think you like him.

And to make love to him.

It's better to wait.

-I can come back. -It's almost over.

That's it, it's over.

Mr. Gudin.

-I'm waiting for your poem. -My poor friend, how's your head?

The inside is intact.

Then I can trust you to take care of this.

The Barber of Seville?

I've improved some scenes, although I don't work well here.

-Tell me what you think. -You're asking me my opinion?

Tell the actors about the corrections. And you will replace me as--

-Me? -Yes.

Quick, the rehearsal is about to begin. Guard?

-Yes, sir. -Show this young man out.

-Of course, sir. -Thank you.

Tell Beaumarchais to be discreet.

And tell him to stop attacking Parliament.

The King will not be able to protect him indefinitely.

Well, behold, he's free.

Can I do anything else for you?

Let's wait a little longer.

Sorry, but I have the play in the morning.

I hope you will have more prisoners to release.

"My God, sir!"

-"Oh, my God, sir!" -Hands on the heart, Rosine.

She's troubled.

-Hands on heart. -"She is evil, Lord Alonzo."

"It was a blow to my heart."

"A seat!"

-"Ah, Rosine." -"What carelessness!"

You're too far away from each other.

They fear Bartholo, but they are very attracted to each other.

Like this: "What carelessness."

-What carelessness, indeed. -Pierre!

Okay, come on, let's start again. Just the lines. So tell me.

You wanted to write my life, but not live it?

-I was doing my best, sir. -I saw. It was well-imitated.

Do you still want to help me?

It's my dearest wish.

I just found out that the Parliament has condemned me early.

I only have one weapon left.

That of my enemies.

Corruption.

I've twisted my ankle. I've hurt myself.

This time, Beaumarchais will be condemned.

You're talking rubbish! The King supports him.

That's right. The rope supports the pendulum.

-If he loses, he is ruined. -He's used to it.

-Parliament just wants his head. -Parliament or the King?

It's the same thing!

Excuse me. Excuse me, sir.

Excuse me.

Sorry, excuse me.

Here is the purpose of this hearing.

A paper signed before his death by the banker of the Vernet.

Who shamefully plunders his rightful heir, the Count of Blache,

for the benefit of Mr. Caron, whom we have to judge today.

Neither Mr. de la Blache nor the experts appointed by the court

recognize the authenticity of the signature on this text.

So who should we believe?

A man, respected by all, who has always honored his position?

Or a public entertainer, whose job is to deceive?

Whose name is even a lie,

and whose fortune was built on the timely death of his two wives.

This man, gentlemen. I solemnly declare it.

This man is a forger.

And an impostor who we must purge from society!

Do you have anything to add?

Yes, Councillor.

-What do you have to say? -Everything.

Everything that doesn't concern this act, that you decided was false.

How can I establish my good faith? I have only my word.

It is worthless to this parliament that I hate and you represent.

-Are you talking to me? -Yes, and the institution you embody.

Who cares less about the truth than about protecting his privileges.

Yes, Councillor. We are tired of the scandals revealed every morning.

We've had enough of the sick ministers who govern us,

who do not know how to conduct themselves.

We are tired of sealed letters, tired of being arbitrarily locked up.

With so many impostors, can't you feel that France is weary?

Leave France alone.

France doesn't want to be quiet anymore. Listen to it.

Listen.

-And beware. -Sir, I'm defending you.

And I'm attacking you!

As I am not a member of the bar, I'll tell the truth.

She's coming, my friends.

She's on her way.

Once launched, Councillor, it will be perilous to stop it.

We're not at the French Comedy.

With actors, we often see an unknown sincerity here.

-Get to the point, Mr. Caron! -De Beaumarchais.

My name is written here. I paid for it, it belongs to me.

Mr. Goëzman!

Before I was imprisoned, I asked to meet with you.

-You refused to see me. -I deal with litigants here.

It's an honor. Why are you finally receiving me?

Christian feelings are sometimes the strongest.

-Feelings, plus a small fortune. -What are you implying?

As if by magic, I was received by you

after giving 100 Louis to your wife.

As well as a precious watch from my father.

You're making it up.

I make things up in my profession, not in the courtroom.

Enough!

I am filing a complaint against Mr. de Beaumarchais.

-And I'm filing your bankruptcy. -You're lying!

You lied about it! Should I name his accomplice?

His name!

The bookseller Lejay, who is here.

Stand up, Mr. Lejay.

Do you know Mr. de Beaumarchais?

-I have never seen this man. -The proof that he is lying!

I demand that he cease to expose such suspicions.

I'm not talking about suspicions. I'm talking about evidence.

Lejay has edited one of my books. That's not a crime!

Come closer, Mr. Lejay. Come and take the oath.

It's time.

Mr. Lejay, you testify under oath.

Your confession could have serious consequences for the accused.

I don't know this man.

Or Goëzman's wife either.

Mr. Caron, it seems your defense system should be very seriously reviewed.

Your Honor, I am obliged to summon

the man who conducted the transaction with Goëzman's representative.

I nominate Paul-Philippe Gudin de la Brenellerie.

-Who are you? -Paul-Phillipe Gudin de la Brenellerie.

I negotiated for Mr. de Beaumarchais. With Mr. Lejay and his wife, Mariette.

She is here.

Your Honor, can I question him?

Let her take the oath.

Mrs. Lejay, raise your right hand.

Swear to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.

-I swear, Your Honor. -I am the judge.

Sorry, Your Honor.

Did Mrs. Goëzman give you 100 Louis

and a watch for a hearing with her husband?

Yes.

Did she in your presence ask your husband to deny what had happened between them?

Yes.

Didn't she even propose you go abroad while the trial happened in Paris?

Yes, she did.

Now you'll understand everything. Your Honor.

Gentlemen, you'll understand everything. Mrs. Lejay.

Do you accuse Mrs. Goëzman of saying in front of her husband,

in front of witnesses, that it would be impossible

to hold our rank with what the King gives us?

-Yes, that's what she said. -What did she add?

We can steal from a person without them noticing.

And the person, gentlemen… The person was me!

The hearing is adjourned.

Let this depraved parliament acquit you, or I'll cut off the judge's ears.

Joseph, you're suffocating him!

You're choking him!

The Prince of Conti.

-He thanked you for condemning him. -Come here.

A free man.

-This is how France should treat you. -I'm not sure the Parliament agrees.

Thank you.

He dared! He told them!

Judges are sellouts! Long live Beaumarchais!

Long live Beaumarchais!

-Down with the Parliament! -Down with the Parliament!

They're thieves. Beaumarchais proclaimed it.

-They won't condemn him. -God hears you.

The people are with Beaumarchais! These men are afraid of the people.

-I'm scared, Mr. Dudin. -Don't be.

-Miss? -Is Mr. de Beaumarchais here?

Sorry, miss, but who are you?

He doesn't know me, but I think he's expecting me.

Please follow me.

Here you go.

The lady you're expecting, sir.

I didn't know I was expecting you, but I would have been wrong not to.

I recognize you…

The hunting court case.

The duel.

-I know you now. -You are disarming. What can I do for you?

I come from Parliament.

Should I fear the worst?

You will be declared infamous in court.

Your property will be seized.

You will not be able to hold any public office.

You won't be able to publish or perform your plays.

So I'm condemned.

-Did you come in spite of that? -Not in spite of it, but because of it.

Since you have fights to fight,

you will have my heart and my intelligence.

It's not just you who is brave.

My name is Marie-Thérèse Willermaulaz.

I've admired you for a long time, but as of tonight, I love you.

Do you want me?

-This is the third marriage proposal. -No, spare me.

-You killed your wives. Don't marry me. -Do you want our marriage to be for life?

Life will decide.

In the meantime, I'll follow you everywhere.

Let's start with my room.

We're here!

I think they are asking for you.

Long live Beaumarchais!

Long live freedom!

Long live freedom, Sartine. Long live freedom!

Why not "long live the republic"! We're not going to jeopardize the monarchy

because the Parliament voted to condemn your protégé!

Sire, Your Majesty knows Beaumarchais. He is a faithful subject.

Faithful and stirring!

Through his trial he was not trying to attack you nor the regime.

-Do you like him? -Yes, he is a loyal man.

He is also a schemer.

He likes plots. For a playwright, that's good.

Not just for a playwright.

Do you think he can bring our case to a successful conclusion?

I'm sure. He's the only one who can.

Here's Beaumarchais.

They say you were a watchmaker not long ago.

They say so, yes.

I have a slow watch that I really like. Would you like to look at it?

I don't practice anymore. I've become clumsy.

Come on. You never forget your first purpose.

Oh. I warned you.

Mr. de Beaumarchais.

Come in.

You will not be summoned to the council chamber.

I want to save you from this humiliation.

But you must stay quiet.

It's not all about being condemned.

You still have to be modest.

Sit down, gentlemen.

And now…

-What are you going to do? -There's nothing I can do, sire.

I cannot do my job or use my name. I can't carry out any public duties.

Sit down.

If you were less sure of yourself, less proud, less insolent…

-Sire, hear me-- -I only hear you!

Mr. de Beaumarchais!

-How do you see your future? -Since yesterday, I have lost sight of it.

Listening to the sentence, a surprising idea came to me.

I would have been surprised if not, sire.

You cannot work or bear your name.

So you need an alias. And under a false name, what can we do?

What, sire?

A secret agent.

Well, say something.

-I'm speechless, sire. -That's a first.

Here's a mission order.

You leave for London the day after tomorrow.

A friend will introduce you to a man there.

Or a woman.

Their gender doesn't matter. It is not defined.

The Chevalier d'Éon.

So you know everything.

I don't know much, sire. So this gentleman, or this lady,

was the best of your agents. Fearless.

-Cunning. -Corrupt, hypocritical…

-A saint would not do this job. -That's why you can do it.

This individual holds a document of great importance, a document that is…

dangerous for France.

It must be repatriated.

At any price.

The service of the King, sire, is priceless?

We'll find him a price. Restoring your civil rights.

-And the joy of seeing my play performed. -It goes without saying.

On the mission order, your name is blank.

What will your name be, Mr. Caron?

Ronac.

It's my name backwards. Caron, Ronac. The Baron de Ronac.

Well…

Good luck, Baron.

-Sire, Your Majesty… -…is a little tired.

Please leave me alone.

Sartine.

Give him the details of the case.

See you soon, dear cousin.

-Are you cold? -A little, yes. In the heart.

-This country doesn't like us. -It never loved us.

France and England have always hated each other.

We should have been born later.

-The King has saved you from the galleys. -I'm not sure he saved me from the worst.

Pierre-Augustin.

William.

Ten years, yet you haven't changed.

This is Marie-Thérèse, the love of my life.

Since two days ago. Pierre is excessive about everything.

I just hope it lasts.

She has courage.

-You'll need a lot of it. -Why?

Here you will have enemies everywhere.

Tomorrow night, I'm meeting all the important people in London.

Including the Chevalier d'Éon. But be careful.

My duties on the Crown Council prohibit me from protecting you.

Chevalier, your plan is ruined.

Louis XV is dead.

-Who else knows? -King George will know tomorrow.

Don't move from here or talk to anyone.

You're going to make money.

Dear Baron.

My lady.

Welcome to London. The anti-French colony is here.

To them, you chose to emigrate. Don't forget it.

You are against France.

-Is the Chevalier here? -Dancing in front of you.

Is this young man him?

No, that's the escort.

Should I leave you with this wonder?

The risks of the job.

Do you think it's a man?

We're going to look into this mystery.

Don't lean in too far, my love.

The Baron of Ronac.

Mr. de Beaumarchais.

-You know of me already? -I am well-informed.

Baroness de Ronac. The Chevalier d'Éon.

Nice to meet you, Miss de Willer.

Since the guns are out, I must protect you, my lady.

-Come dance. -With pleasure.

If you are well-informed,

you must know the reasons for my presence.

I know them very well.

But I would never have risked negotiating with Louis XV

unless it had been Beaumarchais himself.

-I'm flattered. Let's negotiate. -Lady! That's why we're here.

-Lady is the word. -One of the two possible.

Go on…

-Ask me the question you're dying to ask. -Are you a woman?

What do you think?

-Man? -No, no, no.

I said: "Hmm…"

-But… -Let's be careful.

Absolute conviction does not need proof.

Give me your arm.

Nothing will happen to you that you don't want to.

-They say you like women. -As a playwright, I studied them a lot.

You don't want to continue your studies?

I don't want to get it wrong. Let's get back to the facts.

The King knows your deep desire to see France again.

Look around you. They don't like us. How can I return home?

By negotiating with me the repurchase of a plan from our sovereign.

-About the invasion of this island? -That he unwisely confided in you.

-What interest would I have in this? -An interest in cold, hard cash.

-How much? -500,000.

Cold and hard, indeed.

I am not authorized to go any higher.

That's a shame.

How much would a war between France and England cost?

What if they got their hands on this plan?

I need to think about it.

Let's go to the garden.

The night carries advice, and this one is so beautiful.

I have let Louis XV know of my desire to get rid of this plan.

I gave Sartine a price. Surely he told you about it.

Or are you hoping to keep a cut of the money?

That would be very nasty!

-550,000? -Insufficient.

You love money almost as much as you love women.

-600,000? -We're getting closer.

Raise it more, and you'll get what you want.

Sartine had written…

-700,000. -Nearly there.

Let's say that's it.

I want the money here tomorrow by late morning.

-What if I forget? -In that case, you will go to jail.

Louis XV's plan will be placed on King George's desk.

Okay.

-See you tomorrow. -Mr. de Beaumarchais.

Is it a habit of yours to leave a woman after you get what you want?

If I pay, yes.

But who pays the other? You're taking a commission.

You should also take the time to live.

It's just that our meeting seems to make people jealous.

Arthur?

No, that's not what you think. Our relationship is political.

It's not a bad thing that he's watching you.

-Why? -Because he knows you.

He's American.

American…

-Is he free here? -Under a false name, like you.

He's looking for support for his people.

Introduce me.

Arthur?

I always told Louis XV to take an interest in the Americans.

Mr. de Beaumarchais, alias Baron de Ronac. Arthur Lee, alias Sir Whitman.

-Pleased to meet you. -And I, you.

Come.

The enslavement of one people by another seems astonishing to me.

Like that of a man by his fellow man.

Invading England. What a dream!

-Are you nervous? -I'm in a hurry.

Here's the payment for your betrayal. You can count it if you like.

I'd rather trust you. I have to go.

So soon?

An unexpected journey to escape vengeance.

At your service.

You know, Mr. Lee,

for years I have followed America's efforts to free itself from England.

I talked about it, but no one in France listened to me.

So we have the same interest to weaken England.

-What would you like from France? -Rifles, gunpowder, cannons.

It would be easier to obtain its esteem.

How are you going to pay, Mr. Lee?

Your boats will return to France full of our riches.

Let's get out!

You're not jumping, Baron?

-I don't like cold water. -Why are you arresting me?

For conspiring with the enemy.

I am under the protection of the King of France.

The King is dead, Mr. de Beaumarchais.

Mr. de Beaumarchais.

If I knew you were here, I would have been arrested earlier.

-At your service. -To who do I owe the honor?

Théveneau de Morande, a writer like you. But less talented.

-What do you write? -Only horror.

I fill this town with pamphlets that no one reads.

How do you make a living?

I am paid a lot to keep my works at the printing press, unprinted.

That's dangerous.

That's why I know this prison better than my own home.

How's your Barber going?

-Do you know Figaro? -I know your trial interrupted his career.

I'm updating it.

-Can I have a look? -Of course.

-Who gave you such a cheerful philosophy? -The habit of unhappiness.

I laugh at everything, lest I have to cry.

I would give my fortune to have written this.

Thank you. What is your latest work about?

-Our King's inability to honor his wife. -Pardon?

-Have you ever approached Louis XVI? -When he was heir, yes.

He does not fuck around, sir. He does not fuck around.

I threatened the Court to tell everyone if they did not offer me a happy retirement.

-What was the result? -This imprisonment.

I was promised the worst

if I didn't tell them where the original manuscript was.

-You've been promised the worst… -If I didn't tell them where I printed it.

If I were my cousin, the King

this pamphlet, far from depressing me, would stir my blood.

And would provoke a jump to give an heir to the Crown.

-I'd straighten up. -I fear the King does not have your humor.

He doesn't. Thank God.

The King is very afraid of this text.

If it is only Beaumarchais who can make it disappear,

he'll have him released.

-Are you going to see him? -I'm going there now.

Do you know what Voltaire said about our friend?

Beaumarchais will never be Molière

because his life amuses him much more than his work.

How can I repay you?

-What did he say to you? -He asked to marry me.

Wonderful.

Long live the Barber of Seville!

Come on, Pierre needs us.

-What could I write? -What you think.

It's a disgusting joke that will soon fall apart.

-What do you call that? -The catastrophe of the century.

You can survive blame but not ridicule.

What have you done with this comedy?

You have weighed it down with vulgar lines.

You have lengthened it by an act.

You messed it up.

You're right.

I wanted to make people laugh, no matter the price.

I betrayed my words.

There is no doubt I am not a true author.

I'm going back to business.

-My skills there are assured. -Don't add cowardice to laziness.

Just cross out the racy lines.

Use the first version of the play.

Do it yourself, Mr. Biographer.

Since you know what to do so well. I'm not touching it anymore.

The King.

Mr. de Beaumarchais.

I had to write to King George, who is not our friend!

What's gotten into you?

The service of the King, sire.

I couldn't come back without stifling that infamous writing.

Here is the original, sire.

Thank you for taking an interest in the honor of my family.

But why this contact with the Americans?

Our late King was very interested in the War of Independence.

-Are you sure about that? -When Louis XV sent me to London,

he wanted me to meet Benjamin Franklin.

Alas, he had already left the country.

Your grandfather has always been very suspicious of the English.

Hence this invasion plan.

A dangerous project.

And ruinous.

The victory of the English would mean the loss of overseas land

and the strengthening of British power.

Which would otherwise be ruinous. We have to stop it.

-It would be too expensive. -Three million. I counted. Allow me?

Why not.

I'm ready to move on the first million.

I'll get the second from the King of Spain.

That leaves one million.

That's why you're always criticized for putting yourself forward.

Do you see us retreating when the homeland is threatened?

What do you mean by us?

By us? France.

When France finally succeeds, will you still say "we"?

No, then I will say the King, sire.

So he's not stupid. Sit down.

Why would you do all this?

For France, and because I am translating an unforgettable text.

What text?

The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America.

What does this text say?

It talks about the sacred right of the people.

What is this right?

The right to happiness, sire.

Goodbye, Minister.

Louis XV and the Americans? You made it up.

If he marries the American cause, he will go down in history.

It's for the best.

-Or best for you? -It's not incompatible.

-What do you think about him? -The King?

-It's too early. -I like him.

Because he's ready to do your bidding.

We love the same man.

It is a man who does not exist.

I imagined him to be constant. You imagined him to be rigorous.

He is neither.

How are you, my Gudin? Did you write your Barber?

There isn't a single word of yours.

What's wrong with him? Is he angry?

He's disappointed.

-Bravo! -It's awful.

-I've already sent my review. -Do it again, he's redone his play. Bravo!

-Where is Pierre? -He didn't come.

Our favorite author.

Your Grace.

Father.

You weren't at the theater for the Barber of Seville?

-I panicked, Your Grace. -You shouldn't have. It's a great piece.

-A cheerful piece, at most. -It's the same thing.

-When's the next one? -I don't have a subject.

You know you have one. I read the letter to the critic.

Figaro just wants to come back.

If I put this shameless character on stage,

he would be older, and the censorship would not like his words.

We will protect you from the prudes.

The construction of my theater is about to begin.

I would be flattered to inaugurate it with Figaro.

My dear Pierre.

If the King's brother asks for it, you must rise to the challenge.

I will, with pleasure, Your Grace.

What a luxury!

-You've moved up the ranks. -You couldn't be more right.

As of yesterday, I am Minister of the Navy.

I'd like a bit more consideration.

Commanding nut shells does not give you more power.

Enough to bring you the big news. From the King.

Big news from the King can only mean one thing.

Since the American victories over England, the King has realized

that we must help our insurgent friends.

He took the time to think. So?

Unfortunately, this assistance must remain unofficial.

You'll take care of it alone.

-With what money? -Yours.

It was your idea, if I remember correctly.

Now you will do business with American products.

In short, I'll take all the risks, and the government won't take any.

We must not make the English suspicious.

If that happened, the government would have to disavow you.

Or even condemn you.

I'm used to that.

Good morning, gentlemen.

-Who is Rodrigue Hortales? -The head of this company.

-What are these people doing? -They're setting up the offices.

-To what end? -To what end?

Trade with America, defense, preparing for the future.

-Good morning. -Good morning.

Sir, sign this please.

-Go ahead. -Rodrigue Hortales, is that you?

Of course it's you.

You're here, my love.

Do you like this floor? I'm going to keep it for us.

You're needed downstairs. What do we do with the mirror?

I'm coming.

Tell me, Émile!

And that's it.

The Marriage of Figaro and the promise to the Prince of Conti forgotten.

Rodrigue Hortales is going into business. I was stupid.

He will never write this play.

Don't believe that.

He always keeps his promises.

-I'm happy for you. -You're kissing my wife now?

You don't deserve her.

Where are you going?

Your biography will be called The Tribulations of a Cannon Dealer.

Gudin is right, I'm selling death.

-Who is Gudin? -My bad conscience.

-Do you have one? -Everyone has a weakness.

-Start a war, it's simpler. -Do you think so?

Excuse me. Quick, gentlemen. We're running late.

That's it, everything's ready for customs.

What? Nothing has been arranged?

The visit must take place, and it will take place.

The King…

He doesn't want any fuss with the English.

Mr. Hortales.

Customs officer.

I have orders to inspect your boat.

Go ahead, please.

You, up front, the others with me.

Go ahead.

Please go ahead.

After you, dear Arthur.

Go ahead.

Come on, push!

-So? -Nothing. The hold is empty sir.

Nothing, sir.

You've been misinformed.

Under the floor? There is the hull. At least, I hope so.

Gentlemen.

You are pale. Come and get some fresh air.

-Your cargo. -Are you breathing easier now?

-Beaumarchais is here, Ambassador. -Well, bring him in.

Dr. Franklin is waiting for you.

Mr. Ambassador.

Come, come closer.

So, Mr. de Beaumarchais.

I'm told you're not happy with your American friends?

I sent you more than 30 ships

loaded with war equipment, and I received nothing in return.

My company is on the brink of ruin.

But why did you do all that, Mr. de Beaumarchais?

-For the love of freedom. -Well…

Be happy.

I just got a message that's for you.

There, on the table. Please read it.

Yes.

"Mr. de Beaumarchais."

"The Congress of the United States of America,

recognizing the efforts you have made in its favor…"

Congress, Mr. de Beaumarchais!

You are the hero of the New World! Do you realize that?

-Do you realize that? -Alas, yes.

How did this happen?

He was with these ladies. He prolonged the meeting unreasonably.

-Your Grace. -My little Gudin.

-Is Beaumarchais here? -He's coming.

He followed me.

Hopefully he arrives soon.

Please remind him of his promise.

-He owes you a comedy. -Ah, yes.

-Figaro. -Yes.

I'm going to try not to die too fast.

Your Grace.

You still don't believe in God?

He never visited me.

Now it's too late.

Well accept the sacraments.

It doesn't make any difference to you, and it'll please your loved ones.

I accept on one condition.

Give us back Figaro.

He's asking for you.

Would you like a macaron, sir?

She'd make a nice Chérubin, no?

Yes.

I know you aren't asleep.

And I know why.

But what happens elsewhere doesn't matter.

As long as you support me

I beg you to stay with me.

-Who needs something? -Your landlord.

-He's richer than me. -Have his daughter play Chérubin.

I have to finish the 5th.

We'll have to face censorship and comedians.

Let's talk about that. They're making fun of you.

Have you seen the accounts?

They've haven't paid you since Barber's premiere.

-"You've lost her by abusing her." -"She's a minor!"

-"She emancipated herself." -You too, it seems.

Mr. de Beaumarchais?

Gentlemen.

What right do you have to play Barber?

-This comedy belongs to us sir. -That's interesting. Explain.

The play failed within two days. The rights belong to the actors.

I redid the play. It was very successful.

You owe me a ninth of the income, 3,225 pounds.

Have you lost your mind?

And you will lose a trial. The authors won't live off your charity.

The company will require you to recognize our copyrights as authors.

Goodbye, gentlemen.

Copyright.

What do we do now?

Mommy!

Pierre?

He went to see the actors yesterday.

With a copy of The Wedding.

He will have done a reading of it.

Love him the way he is.

It's hard.

-What do you think of the play? -It's never been better.

Or more insolent.

It's a hit.

-He's going to end up in jail. -Censorship will tell us.

You know it doesn't mean anything.

It doesn't mean anything.

Don't look like that.

Don't worry. It's my play that they're going to judge.

-I don't risk not going to the galleys. -No, but to the Bastille.

I will be housed and fed, and you can take care of my wife.

-I think you know everyone. -I haven't had the pleasure.

Mrs. Vigée Lebrun represents the Queen.

It is an honor.

Ladies and gentlemen, first of all I would like you to know

that I will submit to all the corrections you wish to make.

The Follies of a Day, or the Wedding of Figaro.

Figaro: "I was born to be a courtier."

Suzanne: "They say it's a difficult job!"

Figaro: "Receive, take and ask. That's the secret in three words."

Are you afraid to offend our friends, Pierre?

Baron, if they feel targeted, they are not worthy friends.

Figaro: "So, take without need?" Antonio: "Drinking without thirst

and making love all the time set us apart from other beasts."

Wouldn't this be a justification for debauchery?

Mr. Desfontaines. You write yourself.

And very well.

You know that one must create repulsive characters

to exalt the virtues of those shown as an example.

God still needs the devil, Mr. Desfontaines.

"Nobility, fortune, a rank, positions."

"All this makes you so proud."

"What have you done to own so many assets?"

"You went to the trouble of being born, nothing more."

-It's a bit stiff. -Let's wait for the end.

"Hearts will come back in droves."

Figaro: "My wife and my assets,

everyone will honor and please me."

I will spare you the sung verses,

for my voice would make you judge them harshly.

-Careful, you're crushing my feet! -I can't see mine anymore.

-There's no need to flatten people. -What is he talking about?

The Marriage of Figaro by Mr. Beaumarchais.

I don't go to the theater! I hate theater!

I'm going home!

My friend, I'm suffocating!

-What time does it start? -The curtain lifts at six.

Six is too late! I'll be dead by then!

The carriage of His Grace the Count of Provence.

The carriage of the Duke of Chaulnes.

Come on. Come, my beauty.

Some space, please, gentlemen. I need a lot of it.

Gentlemen, please.

Excuse me.

Thank you, perfect.

The Duchess!

Your Grace, your theater is awe-inspiring.

I already find it small.

It's for Beaumarchais. Don't worry, he doesn't write much.

This is the Duchess of Chaulnes.

My lady.

Ah, hello!

Do you want a chicken wing?

-It's very light. -I'm not hungry.

How about a little wine?

Huh? To Figaro's health.

My throat is tight. Could you pray for me?

You have never believed in God.

Like our poor Prince.

I don't know anymore.

Come on, have courage.

Your life doesn't depend on this play.

You're right. It's much more than that.

"19 by 26 feet."

"Figaro, look at my hat."

-"Do I look better like this?" -"Without a doubt."

Sir, please.

-Excuse me, sir. -Look, it's Beaumarchais!

"With your spirit, you could attain high office."

"The spirit to advance?"

"Your Grace is laughing at me."

"It's better to be second-rate and fawning."

"You should study politics under me."

"I know politics."

"It means to pretend to no know what you know,

to know what you don't know, to hear what you don't understand."

"To hide a secret that is not there."

"To shut yourself away to appear profound when you're hollow."

"To play a character well."

"To use spies and reward traitors."

"Softening seals, intercepting letters,

ennobling your means by the importance of your ends."

"This is all politics, or I die."

The Count: "But you define intrigue!"

Figaro: "Politics, intrigue."

"They're one and the same, so do what you will."

-What? Did he write that? -I wouldn't have the talent to.

Keep going.

"Against Anonymous Figaro…"

-"Rank?" -"Gentleman."

"Are you a gentleman?"

"If Heaven wanted it, I would be a prince."

"I would argue that the copulative conjunction 'and'

binds the members of the sentence: 'I'll pay the lady and I'll marry her.'"

"I argue that it is the alternative conjunction 'or'

that separates the members."

"I'll pay her or I'll marry her." "Pedantic, pedantic and a half."

"If he speaks Latin, I'll speak Greek." "I'll exterminate him!"

See.

Your courage has returned.

I don't need it anymore. Listen.

And to think you didn't want to write it.

It looks like Conti died to force me to keep my promise.

Don't believe that.

Conti had nothing to do with it.

What do you mean?

Given the state he was in, he would not have thought to remind you.

-We had to help him. -And you helped him?

God has placed the best of friends close to you.

"I would like to hold these powerful four days."

"So light on evil they are when a disgrace has dampened his pride."

"I'd tell him that printed nonsense only matters if it is censored."

"Without the freedom to criticize, there is no true praise."

"It is only little men who dread little writings."

Please reread that line.

"Without the freedom to criticize, there is no true praise."

"It is only little men who dread the little writings."

Enough, please.

-Labordes. -Sire…

You'll give this to the officer on duty.

"Forced to take the chosen road without knowing it."

"As I will come out of it without wanting to."

"I littered it with as many flowers as my cheerfulness allowed me."

"Again, I say my cheerfulness without knowing if it is mine."

"Or even what this me is."

"A shapeless assembly of unknown parts."

"A wild animal, a young man with all the tastes to enjoy."

"Trying all the trades. Master here, servant there,

according to fortune."

"Ambitious by vanity, laborious by necessity,

but lazy by choice."

Have we martyred a dying man?

On the contrary. I helped him. He thought his death was useless.

Everyone knows the tender mother

Who he received that day

Everything else is a mystery

It's the secret of love

This secret highlights

How the son of a fool

Is often worth his weight in gold

By the fate of birth

One is king, the other is a shepherd

Chance caused their distance

The mind alone can change everything

Twenty kings who are praised

Death breaks the altar

And Voltaire is immortal

This cheerful, crazy piece

Contained a few lessons

In favor of banter

Make thanks to reason

As wise nature

Leads us in our desires

Leads us in our desires

To its purpose through pleasures

Now, gentlemen, the comedy

Let us judge at this moment

I believe we paint life

From the beautiful people Who understand it

Let's oppress him, he's plagued He's screaming

He's agitated in a hundred ways

It all ends with songs

Move out the way. His Grace is going to come out.

Make way.

Come on, make room. Move back.

Mr. de Beaumarchais.

-What's going on? -I'm arresting you.

On the King's orders.

I was back in my cell.

The people in this place are very caring.

This caring would be of no help to me

if the prison did not sanction the validity of my fight.

Voltaire accused me of being right against everyone.

I would like him to be here again to find that finally, against one man

I may be right with all the others.

Mr. de Sartine.

Prepare your things.

The King thinks the punishment has lasted long enough.

So the King punishes.

So the King lifts the punishment.

-Whenever he sees fit. -Come on, let's go.

-If I want to. -Pardon?

I will go out on one condition.

That the King orders the resumption of The Marriage.

And that the council attend the performance in it's entirety.

And if the King says no?

The King did not say no.

And the greats of this world

were able to applaud Figaro without suspecting for a second

that they were applauding

one of the reasons for the birth of the French Revolution.

Subtitles translation by: Alice Dent