Original subtitles

SOFT SKIN

I just called your office.

The subway was held up. A suicide on the tracks.

Not a cab in sight. Hello, Odile.

- What time is your plane? - I have 40 minutes.

You'll never make it with this traffic.

- I have to try. - I packed your bag.

- Hello, Daddy. - Hello, princess.

Are you taking the car?

If you come along to drop me off.

Only if you drive, or you'll nag the whole way.

It's my husband.

What's all the ruckus?

Pierre's lecturing in Lisbon, and he's very late.

- I can drive you. - No, Franca's taking me.

I don't mind. And he won't dare yell at you.

Then let's do that.

- Bye, princess. - Bye, Daddy.

Be good now.

Can I go along?

To the airport? No.

Sure. She'll enjoy it.

All right.

Mademoiselle, please get Sabine's coat.

I don't know where you're staying, so call me.

- Here's an article on you in 7empo. - I'll read it on the plane.

Be careful. He can always catch another plane.

- What time is it? - 3:45.

Why are we even bothering?

Is your lecture on Stendhal?

No, Balzac.

The speed limits 40, but what the hell.

If that cop nabs us, forget your flight.

You grab your bag. I'll handle the cop.

Bye, Michel. Bye, Sabine.

- Porter? - No, thanks.

Can I still make the flight to Lisbon?

It may be too late. I'll check.

Can Mr. Lachenay still board the Lisbon flight?

I don't think so. I'll check.

It's too late if they've taken away the stairs.

Check his bags. We're sending an escort.

We have to hurry. This way, please.

They're taking the stairs away.

No, they're going back.

Quickly, sir.

Quick, the door!

Please...

fasten your seat belt and put out all cigarettes.

Seat backs forward, please.

Please wait here.

Now you can go.

Mr. Lachenay, a picture with the stewardess, please.

Hello, gentlemen, ma'am.

This way, sir.

- Here's the bathroom. - Fine.

Perfect.

Here you are.

BALZAC AND MONEY

It's an unusual fopic. What made you choose it?

Very simple.

I'm a fan of Balzac's, and I don't despise money.

No, I'm kidding.

I put out a book last year by that title.

I hope one day you'll write "Balzac and Love."

Why not?

Not an empty seat left.

We have to bring in extra chairs. - Extra chairs?

- What's lonesco up to? - It's looking very promising.

- We'd better go. - I'm ready.

- Good luck. - Thank you.

I'll introduce you, and then you enter.

Yes, fine.

See you later.

Ladies and gentlemen...

The microphone isn't working.

Allow me to present Pierre Lachenay.

Can we have lunch tomorrow?

- I'm afraid I leave at noon. - Too bad.

That's Pierre Lachenay in the car.

It's been a pleasure.

I hope to see you soon in Paris.

Here. This is my floor.

I'll call you.

See you tomorrow.

Sorry. I forgot to ask what floor.

That's all right.

I'm sorry.

Thank you.

Room 813, please.

Hold the line.

Room 8137?

I was in the elevator with you a moment ago,

and I wanted to apologize —

For what?

You got off at the eighth floor.

Of course.

But I'm on the third floor.

Since we'd already passed my floor...

I should have helped you with your packages.

Not at all. That's perfectly all right.

Well, forgive me. I just thought —

Listen, could we meet for a drink in the bar?

In the bar? Now?

Yes, right now.

You know what time it is?

Oh, it's 1:15.

The bar's closed.

Then...

how about a drink tomorrow?

There's really no point.

I'm sorry. Forgive me.

Good night.

Good night. Again, please excuse me.

I wonder — I mean, I wasn't very polite

after you were so kind to call.

If you'd still like that drink —

Absolutely. Tomorrow morning?

No, I have to go shopping.

Can we make it in the afternoon?

Yes, fine.

6.00 in the hotel bar?

All right.

- Good night, then. - Good night.

Do you enjoy your career,

or are you sorry you chose it?

No, I enjoy my job very much.

Well, it's only been a year.

Everyone says I'll tire of it in a year or two.

Maybe so.

Lots of girls do quit after a few years.

What do they do then?

They get married.

At first, my father —

I adore my parents. They're wonderful.

They live in Bordeaux. That's where I'm from.

Where was I? Oh, right.

At first Dad said it was a job for snobs,

but now he doesn't mind.

- Isn't that her? - Yes.

Those are friends of mine.

The one with the blond mustache is Frank,

the copilot of the plane you came on.

Did you see this?

I almost met you once, six months ago.

What do you mean?

I was dating a TV writer

who worked with Louise de Vilmorin.

She had us to dinner once, and you were invited too.

You said you'd be late and then never showed up.

Yes, I was delayed.

I haven't read many of your books — any, in fact.

But I've read articles and seen you on TV.

So I recognized you right away at the airport.

So Balzac thinks about it and figures

he can put out a novel a month.

Not skinny little novels like foday, but thick volumes.

He writes a chapter a day.

Publishers make him wait forever for meager pay,

so he becomes a publisher, even buys his own printing plant.

But the business doesn't go well,

and his partners pull out.

He decides to do it all himself.

He casts his own metal type

and eventually even makes his own paper.

But he loses everything,

including the money Madame de Berny lent him.

- Was she his mistress? - Yes.

You know how they'd met years before?

Madame de Balzac wants a wife for her son, Honoré.

She invites Madame de Berny, who has two daughters.

Balzac is introduced to the two young girls,

but they leave him cold,

and he falls madly in love with the mother!

- That's amazing. - Isn't it?

Did I really talk all this time? I'm so embarrassed.

No, it was fascinating.

I'll lend you some books, if you'd like.

I had no idea it was so late!

Look how polite people are here.

In France they'd have kicked us out hours ago.

I'll get the bill. It must be light out by now.

Right away, ma'am.

Some matches.

Keep them.

- Aren't you glad to see me? - Just surprised.

I have my ways, you know. I called your secretary,

then your Lisbon hotel, found out your flight number,

and here I am.

Listen, Michel and Odile are coming over later.

I'm afraid today was the only good time.

Did you know they're leaving for Japan soon?

How do you turn off the heat in this car?

I think we've seen enough, right?

- I hate sports programs. - So doll.

Pierre, coming back from the airport the other day,

my car broke down on rue Saint-Denis.

What were you doing there?

On rue Saint-Martin!

No, rue Saint-Denis.

I was going to the Japanese art shop there.

For some prints, I suppose.

You guessed right.

Pierre, I meant to ask you.

- Ice cream? - Yes, please.

Where did you stay in Tokyo?

The Takanawa Prince Hotel. It's not bad.

- Listen. - What's that?

- Sabine's still awake. - Let me, darling.

- It's not your first trip to Japan. - No, I was there two years ago.

Put a cigarette in your mouth there and a woman rushes to light it.

What's all this?

I'm looking for my book.

It's late. You should be fast asleep.

I slept already.

But not enough.

Go to sleep now.

Here.

And here.

That's enough now.

I'm closing the door.

Leave it open wider.

- Like that? - A little wider.

No more than that.

Really, Pierre! Michel and Odile are leaving.

So you're off to Tokyo?

No, they don't leave for a month.

Odile, are we seeing Suzanne tomorrow?

- Yes. You coming by our place? - We'll talk on the phone.

Oh, I have no doubt about that!

- Have a safe trip home. - Good-bye.

- That wasn't too dreadful? - No, they're very nice.

They are, aren't they?

Oh, I forgot.

Kanayan called. He's furious.

Again? It's a habit with him.

Why?

He says he's never writing for the journal again

because his latest article was put at the very end.

He said, "I know this is petty,

but being from an underdeveloped country, I'm very sensitive...

so I have a terrible inferiority complex

and must be handled delicately."

I felt like using the line from that joke:

"You don't have an inferiority complex.

You really are inferior!"

Then we'd never see him again,

and he's really a nice guy.

PIERRE LACHENAY MANAGING EDITOR

- Did you try that number? - Several times. It's busy.

Shall we do that letter now?

If you like.

To Mr. Kanayan. His regular address.

"My dear Kanayan,

I hear you've decided to stop writing for us.

I'm sure there's been a misunderstanding."

No, I'll have lunch with him instead.

- Any more letters? - Later.

Anyone I should call back?

If they call, I'm out. If they call, I'm in.

- So don't call anyone back? - No.

And your 11:30 appointment?

I haven't forgotten.

- I'm going out for a minute. - And your appointment?

I'll be right back.

You almost missed me.

I was off to an exercise class when you called.

When should I call you?

I should call you. I never know my schedule.

I love my job, but you can't make friends.

I meet nice people who invite me out once or twice,

but I always have to cancel, so they stop asking.

I hope you don't think I will.

I'll always have time for you. Just signal and I'll come running.

This wind!

Is this exercise class obligatory or just for fun?

It's preparation for my refresher course next month.

What's that?

We practice first aid and safety drills for a week.

We get in a pool and show we can handle a lifeboat.

I've got to go. Good-bye.

Hello, Daddy.

Hello, princess.

Guess what's in there. - Something for me?

Yes. A record.

A little girl singing?

No, much better than that.

Haydn's 7oy Symphony.

It has lots of sounds of toys and birdcalls.

You'll see.

Pretty, huh?

- Hello, Pierre. - Hello, Franca.

Where's yesterday's paper that was here?

It should still be there.

It's not, and I need it.

It must be upstairs.

It had a book review I wanted to clip out.

It must be in the bedroom.

Here it is.

This is from two days ago. Damn it!

Don't get so worked up!

I'll order a copy.

I need it right now!

Then get your own lousy paper and leave me alone!

I LOVE YOU

"Since meeting you I'm a different man.

I can't imagine living without you. I love you."

- Hello. - Are you coming or going?

My flight's delayed half an hour.

Walk with me to the bus?

Another time. I see someone I know.

All right. Bye.

You're still here?

I got here late just as a plane took off.

I was sure it was yours.

A plane takes off here every five minutes.

They have to change a wheel,

so I have half an hour.

Evening.

Are you asleep?

You're mean.

I'm sorry about the newspaper.

I was wrong to lose my temper. It wasn't that urgent.

I found it ten minutes later anyway.

Let's spend a few days in the country.

We haven't been alone together in four years.

Sabine says Odile can stay with them.

Isn't that a good idea?

A few days in the country?

Maybe. We'll see.

Hello, Mr. Lachenay. Is Mrs. Lachenay well?

Fine, thanks.

The menu.

Did you come for me yesterday?

Yes, but your flight was delayed 24 hours. I never found out why.

I'm sorry. There's so much snow in Frankfurt.

Next time I'm held up, I could wire you.

- Or call my office. - But what about your secretary?

Don't worry about her.

- I didn't expect you today. - Glad I came?

Yes, I was feeling a bit down.

I brought you something. I thought of you the moment I saw it.

To make notes during your lectures.

Thank you.

It's very nice.

I can stay at your place if you like.

I don't have to be home tonight.

Listen, I feel awful saying no,

but I'm scared.

There's the concierge,

and the landlady, an old woman, is a friend of my parents.

No one's ever spent the night. We just can't.

Are you angry?

I wish you could too.

No, I understand.

Maybe we could get a room somewhere.

Let's do that. But I have to go home and change first.

All right. And then we'll find a restaurant.

Somewhere with dancing?

Here.

You choose.

But I warn you, I can't dance. I've never wanted to learn.

Even when you were — I mean, before you got married?

Yes, even when I was young.

Must be why it was hard to find a girlfriend.

Don't be silly.

Go and dance. I swear I don't mind.

- What will you do? - I'll watch you.

It will be my pleasure.

ROOMS FOR RENT OPEN 24 HOURS

- Yes, sir? - A room, please.

- Did you make a reservation? - No.

I'm sorry. All our rooms are taken.

Right up the stairs.

I'll have a room in 15 minutes.

Fifteen minutes?

Please, Pierre, let's go.

You're right.

Are you mad at me?

Not at all. I felt the same way.

I didn't think it would be like that.

We need a place of our own.

I'll take you home.

- Well, I'll be going. - Kiss me again.

Listen, we'll be very careful.

Come up if you like.

Come on.

All right... I'll go first.

I know it's too awkward bringing someone up.

We mustn't do anything foolish.

Let's do this. When do you leave again?

Day after tomorrow. I'll be back Monday.

I'm giving a lecture in Reims next week.

Come with me,

and we'll spend two whole days in the country together.

It'll be wonderful.

It's Paris that's the problem.

Yes, you're right.

Think of me.

Where will you sleep tonight?

At home.

I'll tell my wife I got back early.

No, I don't want you to.

Come on.

- What are you looking at? - I just noticed

your blue jeans.

Do you mind?

No, but...

I prefer you in a dress. Did you bring any?

Of course.

Good.

We need gas. - How about here?

Fill it up, please.

Fifty francs.

Look! Your picture's on that poster!

Is it a lecture you're giving in Reims?

No, I'm introducing a film by Marc Allégret about André Gide.

I normally wouldn't do it,

but I thought it would give me two days with you.

Get the guide out and look up hotels in Reims.

The Grand Hoétel is the best.

But all the organizers will be staying there.

What's next?

Next is the Lion d'Or.

I might know people there too. What's the third?

The Michelet. But there's no restaurant.

We'll eat out. Where is it?

It's the Hotel Michelet on the Place Michelet.

- Any rooms for two? - You have a reservation?

Number 12 has a large bed. You wish to see it?

With a bathroom? We'll take it.

Any luggage? I'll help you.

Excuse me, ma'am. I'll go first.

It's on the street, but it's very quiet here.

Thank you. This is for you.

A nice little room. And Michelet's a good name.

I'm going to unpack and take a bath.

Damn! There goes my last pair of nylons.

I better run,

or the organizers will be looking all over for me.

I won't be long.

Get me some sable stockings and a ticket for tonight.

Pierre, don't forget my sable stockings.

- Any luggage, sir? - No.

Hello, Mr. Lachenay. Your suite's ready.

No, I won't be staying afterward.

- We'll see to your luggage. - No luggage.

Would you care to rest?

- How are you, my friend? - Fine, and you?

Just get in? I'm sure you want to freshen up.

No, I'm fine.

You know, when I invited you, I was sure you'd refuse.

But everyone here knows we're friends, so I had to try.

You need a ticket for your wife? - She didn't come.

Give her my best.

Let me introduce you.

Father Coté, our charity director.

Pleased to meet you.

Mr. Bertrand, manager of the theater.

Mrs. Laloix is in charge of —

- Cultural events. - Like tonight's gala.

Mr. Bontemps, head of our arts center,

and his wife.

And Mrs. — - Perraut.

Clément.

I didn't know there was a dinner.

Thought you'd get off that easy?

Out here we squeeze a celebrity dry, like a lemon.

I have to get my car looked at.

- Will you be long? - Five minutes.

I'll keep them busy with the appetizers.

But hurry!

Pierre, don't forget my sable stockings.

- Excuse me. - We're closed.

- I'd just like some nylons. - All right.

Nicole, I got you two pairs of nylons.

Listen, it's gotten complicated.

I have to attend a dinner first.

Then I'll eat somewhere nearby. But stay a while now.

I'm afraid they're all waiting right now.

I see.

You're not mad, are you?

See you later.

You didn't give me my ticket.

You'll have to get one at the theater.

- What theater? - The Capitol, I think.

- I don't know where it is. - Neither do I. Ask at the desk.

Why am I even here?

- You didn't leave the car? - They're too busy.

If they did that to me — Come on.

You're at the head of the table, my friend,

with a lady on each side.

Are you married?

Yes, ma'am.

- You didn't bring your wife? - No, I'm going right back.

It's oysters or soup for starters.

Help yourselves.

Do you know Reims?

Any children?

It's a real grilling!

I'll answer your questions one at a time.

Yes, I have one child.

No, I've never been to Reims before.

And you're just staying for the evening?

What about the wonderful sights here?

Only André Gide could get me

back into a movie theater.

Last time was to see Chaplin's The Pawnshop.

I liked when he opened the alarm clock

with a can opener.

Well, I first saw the ocean

at the Paramount theater.

Pierre Daninos was here last month. You know him?

Not personally. Did it go well?

It was awful.

Everyone was late, it rained,

and my dress was a disaster.

- Was it the color? - No.

It made me look terribly fat.

I hope everyone's forgotten that evening.

Don't worry if the audience seems reserved.

People here rarely applaud.

Did you know Gide personally?

- That's the bookseller talking. - No, the book lover.

Yes, I met him twice.

The second time was very moving, just weeks before his death.

Tell us about it.

I'd rather save that for my talk so as not to repeat myself.

As you wish.

There's a young lady to see you, sir.

To see me?

Are you sure?

Please forgive me for being so bold.

I admire your work, and I can't attend your talk.

Would you mind signing your latest book for me?

I'd be happy to.

My name's Christiane Duchant.

That's right. With a T.

There you are.

Thank you very much.

He doesn't let anyone walk all over him.

Next year it'll take just 72 minutes to get to Paris by train.

Forgive me.

I'm going to check the box office.

Mr. Lachenay, thanks to you we're sold out,

a rare occurrence during this downturn in film attendance.

Forgive me if I'm blunt, but I'm a businessman first of all.

Don't think these people have come for Gide.

They've come to see you. They know you from TV.

It's time to go.

This way.

Take this.

I must leave you now to check the hall.

But I'll see you later at the reception, of course.

I'm sorry, but I didn't know about it.

I must be back in Paris tonight.

What a pity. Well, thanks again for coming,

and break a leg.

Take off your coat.

Now then...

I announce the program...

we bring the lights up...

and you walk on. - Okay.

We shake hands, and then you're on your own.

All right.

Shall I?

As the poet said, the friendship of a great man

is a gift from the gods.

There's no need to introduce Pierre Lachenay.

I'll simply thank him

for being here tonight.

I give you Pierre Lachenay!

Ladies and gentlemen... "I've discovered

that all man's miseries derive from a single thing,

which is not being able to sit quietly in a room."

Had I recalled that aphorism by Pascal a few hours ago,

I wouldn't be here now, because I must admit

I'm quite nervous.

I'm not a film expert,

but I had the pleasure of meeting André Gide twice...

One, please.

There are no more tickets.

- Not even balcony? - Sorry. We're sold out.

I'll pay full price if I can just stand inside.

I really can't.

- Really? - Absolutely. I'm sorry.

I was telling this young lady it's sold out.

The few unreserved seats went very quickly. I'm sorry.

You can close up now.

Everybody has read and held in their hands

a book from the famous Pléiade collection,

which publishes the entire work of an author in one tome.

It was Gide who got the idea for that collection

while reading the Bible.

He told me, ‘My dear Lachenay...

our talk today will help you understand my books."

"Am I up the task?" I reassured André Gide...

But time flies.

Before you see the film,

in conclusion 1'd like to read...

a few of Gide's final words.

"I offer no doctrine,

I refuse to give advice,

and I beat a hasty retreat from arguments.

But I know that some today are groping about for something

and don't know where to place their trust.

To them I say,

‘Trust those who seek the truth,

beware of those who've found it,

question everything,

but never doubt yourselves."

And now, Marc Allégret's film.

You were great!

- Think so? - Perfect.

When you play this,

it should make you tremble...

Gide is great.

Looks like a wrestler. - You're right.

...and not just you, but your audience as well.

Try it once again, please.

Just take it from there.

We can watch the rest, if you'd like.

Not really.

Then let's get a drink.

You'd never have imagined me out here in the provinces.

But I've kept my studio in Paris so that I don't ossify.

What's wrong? Forget something?

Shall we?

You gave the talk, but I'm dry as a whistle.

How about a drink?

- Let me by. - Don't run off.

Let's go. It's tough to get a drink around here after 9:00.

There was a Whisky a Gogo, but it closed.

Some sort of problems with the cops.

Want one?

Which is strange, ‘cause nothing happens out here,

though a peek behind these closed doors —

Speaking of Gide, you remember that woman,

the recluse of Poitiers?

I think there's a place over this way.

I was here once a month ago. Shall we try it?

Brains before beauty.

What'll you have? A beer for me.

Two draft beers.

That'll keep the damage down.

The film runs 90 minutes.

Cigarette?

What's wrong? You okay?

It's hot in here.

I thought you looked a bit peaked earlier.

Let's get out of here. I can't take it anymore.

You really do look awful.

Don't want your beer? May I?

You should rest at the hotel.

A quiet nap in your room will do you good.

That crowd of hicks probably got you down.

Bringing you out here is like casting pearls before swine.

Your talk was really great. No, I mean it.

In fact, all your work is pure Mozart.

It's 100% pork. But here all they think about is food.

Lachenay in Reims? Bingo! A dinner!

They stuff their faces for free.

So much for cultural events!

Damn! My shoelace broke.

Let me fix this. It's the second time tonight.

There. There's always a solution.

Still, I hate shoelaces.

I usually wear moccasins for that reason,

but in your honor I put on my best shoes,

and they're killing me.

You might say I'm feeling the pinch.

Remember Lacheére's wedding? You knew him...

- What are you doing? - I should ask you that.

I'm sorry. I've got to shake this bore.

I won't be long.

Lachenay!

Where'd you go? I looked all over.

Vanished into thin air, like a flying saucer. I thought you'd been kidnapped.

I felt like that defeated general:

"What happened to my army? It's gone without a trace.

It was here just yesterday. Or did I just misplace it?"

Jeez, you look awful!

There's not a soul out after 9:00 here.

In Spain and Italy, they live it up in the streets half the night.

In France, these skinflints go to bed at sundown

just to save electricity. This way.

You look really bushed.

You better lie down at the hotel.

Take a nap and I'll come get you for the reception.

No, I'm going back to Paris.

What will all those people say?

They'll be sore as hell.

No, I told them already. I thought you were there.

No, I didn't hear it.

But then I don't need to go back either.

Are you driving right back to Paris? - Yes.

Great! Can I get a ride?

- To Paris? - Yes. I'll go with you.

- All right. - Fantastic! Is that your car?

I'll just get my bag, and bye-bye, people!

Five minutes at most.

Get dressed. We're leaving.

This town's getting on my nerves.

Did you hear me? We're leaving.

Are you asleep?

Go if you want. I'm staying.

What do you mean?

I mean I've had enough.

You don't want to leave tonight?

You go.

I'll catch a train to Paris in the morning.

Just leave me alone!

Go away!

I didn't ask to come. This was all your idea.

I realized tonight you were ashamed of me.

The whole evening was humiliating.

And that creep trying to pick me up in the street!

The evening was humiliating for me too.

But what could I do? I was trapped.

It was awful. I'll tell you all about it.

Please forgive me, my darling.

You want us to stay here tonight?

No, I'd rather not stay.

Let's leave right away.

I'll go pay the bill.

My bill, please.

I don't write up the bills, and they're all asleep.

Wait till morning. I can't write you a bill.

Something's come up. I have to leave.

Come on. I'll help you.

It'll be fine.

How much for the room? - Forty francs.

With a few extras, it couldn't be more than 80.

Here's 120.

If there's any problem, you have my address.

Let me carry your bags.

No need. We'll manage.

Damn it, we have to pass by the Grand Hétel.

See that guy?

With the tan coat and suitcase?

Oh jeez!

He asks, "Then can I go along?"

What did you say?

I said yes,

but when he went inside, I took off like a thief.

Crazy, isn't it?

Sorry.

Know what Sacha Guitry used to say?

"When she yawned in my face, it was time to say bye-bye."

- Is La Coliniére nice? - Michelin says it is.

A sort of inn with separate cabins.

That's right. Come closer, darling.

Go to sleep.

The bathroom's right here.

Anything else? - No, thank you.

You asleep?

Nicole, my darling...

are you tired?

My brother uses an electric razor.

His friends dared him once to shave his head.

Dad told him, "If you do,

leave this house until it grows back," so he left for good.

When did you leave?

When I became a stewardess.

- How did you do that? - I took the usual test.

I went to London to study English

for a year.

- Did you know people there? - No...

and I almost came back early, but my parents insisted I stay.

Then I made some friends. - Why did your parents insist?

I thought I loved a boy in Bordeaux, but it was all wrong.

My parents wanted me to forget him.

Was he your first?

- No, the first was in London. - An Englishman?

No, a Frenchman.

Did you love him?

No. It was stupid. It didn't last.

And after him?

Two or three others, but they didn't mean anything.

I was too young, I guess.

It's strange...

but the first time it meant something physically

was just last year.

I wasn't interested in the guy, but he kept hanging around.

In the end he practically raped me.

It's awful. I didn't love him,

but it was the first time I felt pleasure with a man.

It didn't last very long.

I was uneasy with him. His touch made me feel dirty.

I'd take a bath when I got home.

I felt a kind of moral disgust. I even hated

the clothes he'd touched.

What line of work was he in?

Gosh, this is heavy.

Is he in aviation?

Yes, a pilot. You met Frank.

I knew it! Amazing!

I sensed it even before our dinner in Lisbon.

Were you dating anyone when we met? - No.

- What about Frank? - That had ended months before.

- And after him? - Nobody.

I enjoy making love,

but I can go a long time without missing it.

You mind me talking about it? You sure?

Well, I don't really know Frank, but I hate his type.

What do you mean?

The cocksure, arrogant type.

He's not really like that,

but I don't care enough to take his side.

And we didn't come here to talk about Frank.

Wait.

Three-quarter profile. Look at me.

One more.

But not with your legs like that.

Don't cross them. Wait, I'll show you.

Like that.

There.

That's enough. My legs are numb.

Just one with the timer.

So I can be in it with you. - Hurry!

I'm really lucky at games. Watch this.

You seem very interested in women, my dear sir.

Yes, but oddly enough, only since I met you.

Could I have awakened certain appetites?

Where do you spend summer vacations?

My kids love Brittany.

Dab it out right away.

Use this.

Look, Pierre.

See that woman?

I used to be a blonde. I looked great.

Don't believe me? - Sure.

Now look over there.

What do you see?

- The same blouse. - Right.

Leopard skin.

Women who wear that love making love.

Something's wrong. Don't you feel well?

- I'm fine. - No...

I'm getting to know you.

There's something on your mind.

Is it something I did?

Something I said?

I feel awkward.

You want to call your wife, right?

Yes.

You should have just said so.

I'll have a cigarette outside.

Call me when you're done.

Get me Passy 42-70, please.

Franca, how are you?

Fine, and you?

I'm fine, but something came up.

They hadn't told me this affair ran two nights.

I had to stay longer, but I'll be home tonight.

Are you calling from Reims?

That's right.

I called Reims last night.

They said you'd left for Paris. I hope you're having fun.

I'll call you tomorrow.

Do you love me?

Yes.

Why don't you ever say it?

It's not your style to say those things, is that it?

That's it exactly.

Don't forget to think about me.

No use lying. I know you went away with another woman.

Well?

Kanayan called to say his article wouldn't be ready

for this month's issue, so I called the Grand Hotel in Reims.

You'd left the night before.

You know I'm nervous when you're on the road,

but a lot you care!

You're cruel to keep me in the dark.

And after I'd asked if we could go away together!

I could have joined you after your lecture.

We haven't been alone together in five years.

- It hasn't been five years. - Yes, I counted.

I just needed to be alone.

I'd have understood if you'd told me that.

No, you never understand anything!

- You'll wake up Sabine. - Nothing wakes her up.

Maybe not, but I had the nanny stay over.

After all, I might want to go out.

I need some fun too!

I'm tired. I need some sleep.

I haven't slept in two nights, SO you can wait!

Why don't you say something?

If I'm wrong, say so.

I don't want to discuss it now!

If you were with another woman, tell me.

I really don't mind, and it would hurt less —

Sorry to disappoint you, but I was alone!

I don't believe you!

- I don't care! - Very kind of you!

No, it's not kind. But what do you want?

Take care of me!

It's not like you're sick.

Yes, I am, thanks to you.

I haven't slept in two nights.

Listen...

maybe we should separate.

I'm serious.

All right. I'll leave.

I'm just on edge. I didn't mean it.

I'm tired, and I said some nasty things.

Look, let's try an experiment.

No fighting for a month, and then we'll decide.

We've been trying that for 12 years.

If you walk through that door, don't ever come back.

Good morning.

Yes, I slept here.

How did you find your apartment? - The Chaudé agency.

Better call them. I need something quickly.

I'm going out for coffee.

It's Mrs. Lachenay.

I'll take it in there.

Pierre, did you sleep well?

Well, I was up all night.

This is just to thank you for walking out on me.

I could forgive anything but that.

Odlle's cousin will act as my lawyer.

- Your what? - My divorce lawyer.

I suggest you get someone too.

This mustn't drag on. I don't infend to be alone long.

I've packed your bags. Pick them up anytime.

Ah, it's you.

I just called your office, but you'd left.

You can't stay. My father's in town.

He's on his way here. And then I'll be away till Friday.

Then let's have dinner Friday.

I have important news.

Important news? Then tell me now.

No, your father's coming, and this takes time.

Come on!

You say you have big news, and now you won't talk. Tell me.

I'm not saying a word.

Just tell me: Is it pleasant news?

I don't know about pleasant, but it's serious and important.

Please tell me.

I'd prefer more time to explain, but anyway...

my wife and I are separating by mutual agreement.

There's my dad now.

Off you go. See you Friday.

Leave the key out on Friday.

All right.

Excuse me.

- Hello, Daddy. - Hello, sweetheart.

I'm almost ready.

See? I walk like a lady.

My lawyer's waiting to hear from yours.

It's not that urgent.

Yes, itis. I don't like unresolved situations.

Let's not discuss it here.

All right. Let's go in the study.

Sit down.

I'd prefer not to.

Oh, I need to take this.

And this.

Your bags are ready in the entryway.

I'd have sent them if I knew your address.

Where are you staying?

I'm sleeping at the office.

I plan to buy or rent a place.

You fool!

- Listen — - No, I won't!

What got into you? Weren't you happy here?

What were you thinking? - Not in front of Sabine.

You should have thought about her before.

Go play with your nanny.

Go find her.

Come along.

Kanayan called.

I told him to call the office, but he couldn't reach you,

so he called here at night.

I told him you weren't living here anymore.

What else could I tell him?

The truth: that we decided to separate.

We decided to separate.

You'd like me to say that.

Well, don't count on it. I'll tell people you left me!

Isn't that the truth? You got tired of me?

Calm down.

Know what you are? A real bastard!

Forgive me, Pierre.

I didn't mean to do that. I'm just so tired.

Come sit down.

I wasn't thinking.

You must hate me now.

No, Franca. I hate myself.

Kiss me.

Let's go play in your room.

I'll take your suit to the cleaner's.

I'm taking Sabine for a walk.

Bye, darling.

Bye, Daddy.

Let's go.

They must have forgotten something.

- Oh, Pierre! I'll come back later. - No, stay.

Pierre's just leaving.

I have to be going.

Call me tonight. I'd like that.

I'll do that.

By the way, you got some champagne from Reims.

What should I do with it?

Put it in the cellar.

Take the Foujita.

I gave it to you. It's yours.

No, you take it.

I don't want it. It's yours.

You want to come back for dinner... or to sleep?

Or just for dinner?

You know it won't work.

We can't go back now.

I'm sorry, Odile. I don't feel well.

I can't go with you.

What a fool I am!

I should have known better.

Is all this because of Pierre?

What did he want?

That's what he wanted!

LUXURY APARTMENTS

Franca, you must calm down.

You need some sleep.

Would you get me a sleeping pill?

What's going on? I'm double-parked.

I'd better stay.

Pierre came by, and Franca's very upset.

She might do something foolish. I'll see you tonight.

We ran into a storm today over Frankfurt.

An American passenger got scared

and drank a whole bottle of whiskey!

We couldn't calm him down. He drove us all crazy.

It was awful.

Listen, don't talk so loud. People are staring.

You're charming tonight.

Was your father happy to see you?

Did he enjoy his visit?

I don't know.

I'm tired. Please take me home.

But the show starts in ten minutes.

No, take me home.

You wanted to come here.

Well, now I'm tired. I fly out again tomorrow.

Are you mad?

You sure?

Positive.

I know I haven't been very good company,

but don't be mad at me.

It's been a rough week.

Franca... the separation.

I thought you were separating by mutual agreement.

Yes, of course...

but it's not that easy after 15 years.

- Have you told her about me? - No, why?

I thought the later the better.

I don't agree.

Me, I'd prefer to know it was for another woman,

or I'd keep wondering what happened.

It's clearer that way.

I didn't look at it that way.

Speaking as a man —

No, you're wrong, I tell you.

Maybe you're right. I'll tell her.

But it won't be easy.

You see, it's been hard on me too...

harder than I expected.

We're used to each other...

and I'll miss seeing Sabine every day.

In that case, you made a real mess of things.

You can give Sabine some calf's liver for lunch.

I'll get the door. And some mashed potatoes.

Your suit from the cleaner's, ma'am.

Hold on.

This ticket was in the coat pocket.

Thank you.

This is the living room.

My study and library will be in there.

Our room will be over there, and a room

for Sabine when she visits.

We'll rent an extra room for the nanny.

So you want to marry me.

If I say yes, you'll ask my father for my hand. Is that it?

Listen...

I've been realizing life isn't what I thought.

There's been a serious misunderstanding.

When you looked me up in Paris,

I was pleased because I was afraid

you might have thought badly of me.

Everything happened so quickly in Lisbon,

I knew what was coming on the way over here.

If you'd talked to me about this apartment,

I'd have told you what I thought.

It's just as well that you rushed things.

Otherwise they'd have just dragged on,

only to end up the same way.

There's no point to that.

Last night at the restaurant,

you think I couldn't tell how much I irritated you?

For a minute you even hated me. It's true!

That's no time to be making plans for the future.

I know you're hurting, but I'm hurting too.

If you'd like —

I mean, I'd still like

to meet from time to time.

I'm sorry.

Good-bye, Pierre.

- How much is it? - Fourteen francs.

Need a little help?

How about we go for a little walk?

Are you really in such a rush?

We could go to a restaurant, or up to my place.

Who do you think you are?

Just what do you want?

Do all the women throw themselves at you?

You take them to the country?

You think you're irresistible? A real Don Juan?

Are you such a great lover?

Have you ever taken a good look at yourself?

Come and look!

Look! - Leave me alone!

Take Sabine to Madame Odile's.

Look, Mommy. I ate it all.

You mean after her homework?

No, right after she eats.

What about her homework?

She'll do it at Madame Odile's.

Yes, ma'am.

A token, please.

Odile? It's Pierre Lachenay.

I want to thank you for everything

and say that I'm off for a rest tomorrow.

Would you ask Franca if I can see Sabine first?

As you wish, Pierre. But it's all such a shame.

What can I do about it now?

It's too late.

And since you'll be seeing her, would you...

keep me informed?

About what?

You mean if there's still time to change your mind?

If you really want to go back to Franca,

of course she'll take you back, but you must ask her yourself.

Maybe you're right.

I'll call her in a few days.

No, the sooner the befter.

Call her right now.

Now?

No, I'd rather wait a bit.

Why? You think she'll sit around waiting for ten years?

Please, Pierre, call her now.

You're right.

I'll do that.

Good-bye, Odile.

- Another token, please. - Another one?

That's right.

I'm going out.

You're not having lunch here?

No.

Mrs. Lachenay's residence.

Is that you, mademoiselle?

My wife, please.

She just stepped out this minute.

Please check the stairs.

Just a moment. I'll look.

No, she's left the building.

She's probably still outside. Please call her from the window.

I'll have a look.

I'm sorry, but she just drove off.

Any message?

Please tell her that I phoned

and will call back later.

1'll tell her.

Very good.