Deux femmes (2022) Movie Script
TWO WOMEN
Earlier that day.
Arras Court, Monday,
November 12, 1965
This story is based on
a miscarriage of justice
that made headlines in France in 1965.
The death penalty was still in force
and abortion was illegal.
- No.
- What's wrong?
- Stop.
- No hotel?
It's over, Robert.
- Why?
- It's nothing against you.
- It's me, I'm done.
- I promise we'll be more careful!
Don't.
Colette,
you're unlike any woman I know.
- When I look--
- Don't.
I have to see you.
Please don't.
Don't make it any harder.
Come on, Colette.
- Are you sure?
- Just go.
Colette
- Can we at least be friends?
- Of course.
- Hello, ma'am.
- Hello.
- All right, Franoise?
- Yes.
- Ready?
- Yes.
- Thanks, Solange.
- Bye!
Bye.
No, don't worry, there's no charge.
- Hi, Colette.
- Hi.
- Hello. Hello, ma'am.
- Hello, Doctor.
To your right.
Franoise, is it?
- My dau--
- Sorry, I have to talk to
your daughter and hear her side,
if you don't mind.
How are you feeling?
I'm a bit scared.
That's natural.
But it'll all be okay.
Does
it hurt?
You'll have to be brave
but it's a quick procedure.
Why don't you want this child?
Because I'm not in love.
It was a mistake.
But I know I'll want
a family one day.
Don't worry, you will.
And when you decide.
Ready?
Hello.
Rinacci,
score-settling between Arabs.
Camise
embezzling at a garage.
But for you, Leroux
I've got nothing.
Get to work, gentlemen.
DESMETS BANK
Mr Bonnefond!
- Hello, Mrs Chevreau!
- Hi.
Would you possibly be able to fit me
and my husband in to discuss our store?
Of course I can, but not until Friday.
In fact, something's been bugging me.
It's your DS.
Zero to 150 in no time, right?
I really couldn't say.
Fast cars aren't really my thing.
Of course, you're a woman.
Yes, that must be why.
In any case, I can't afford
a car like that.
Oh jeez, it's 6:00 p.m.
I'm late for my rounds!
- So, Friday?
- Sure thing.
- Mrs Chevreau.
- Mr Bonnefond.
You have a counter in the viewfinder.
The rangefinder incorporates
a diamond-shaped focus.
And flash mode.
- Thank you very much.
- Hello!
- No problem.
- I'll think about it.
- Bye.
- Go ahead.
Thank you.
- How are you?
- Good.
All good with Mrs Marqueuil?
I guess, she ordered
her daughter's wedding photos.
I just saw Bonnefond.
- Got an appointment for Friday.
- Good.
- Careful on the stairs!
- Mommy!
- My darlings!
- How are you, Mom?
- Good day?
- Yes, you?
Not bad.
- Have you done your homework?
- Yes.
- Almost done.
- Off you go and play, kids.
It's Mommy and Daddy time.
It's out of service, guys.
- And for you.
- Thank you.
Look who it is!
- Hi there.
- Hi.
- The usual, love birds?
- The usual it is.
Colette's nice, isn't she?
So is Pierre. He's a lovely guy.
I'm not stupid, Robert.
- You're sleeping with her.
- What?
I see the way you look at her.
- You're screwing that whore!
- Quiet, people will hear.
Don't want a bad reputation?
You can make me look like a fool
but your cop reputation?
- God forbid it suffers.
- I said stop.
I'm warning you
once was enough.
If you have another mistress,
I'll leave you and take the kids.
- You were with her today, weren't you?
- Unbelievable! No.
- No idea where I was?
- No.
Saint-Quentin cemetery?
Surprise, surprise, you forgot
the anniversary of my mother's death.
Mr Rfabert!
Sorry I'm late but
Hello, gentlemen.
Hi there.
Poor guy.
- When did you find him?
- At 10:00 this morning.
We were out woodcutting.
Nothing to add?
Don't touch anything.
I'm calling the prosecutor.
I just wanted to brighten
the place up.
Homicide.
A banker from Desmets Bank
was found burned in his car.
Happened in Saint-Lonard.
Out in the backwoods.
I've got no choice.
Camise and Rinacci are snowed under.
I put a top dog on the case.
Chief Faureins from Arras Police
and his team.
Because I don't trust
the local police one bit.
He's your only contact, got it?
Okay.
Berthelot!
- Yes, boss?
- Tell Arras
to get me two extra phone lines.
We're going to need them.
I'm on it.
Not too miffed I got the case?
Not at all, Chief.
Don't worry, anyway,
I'll wrap it up in no time.
I won't be here long.
Of course.
Here we are.
There's my girl.
Congratulations!
- One of 6 women examining magistrates!
- Yes, I know.
Georges, please.
- What?
- Thank you.
Would you mind
not talking about work over dinner?
I'm not, I'm talking about our daughter.
Lord
bless this meal and those who made it.
And give bread to those who have hunger.
- Amen.
- Amen.
Maybe we could invite Grard Le Gall
and his parents over on Sunday.
Who?
You know, that petroleum engineer.
Come on, honey, leave her alone.
- Can't I show her potential suitors?
- No, you can't.
- Enlighten me as to why.
- She has bigger priorities.
And a man in a woman's life
isn't a priority?
I devoted myself to
my magistrate career.
I only married at 40.
I'm no worse off for it.
And neither are you.
This is her life, her career.
You are the first woman
to oversee a homicide investigation.
- I worry I'm not up to it.
- Nonsense.
You're going to succeed in this case.
And because you'll succeed,
in a few years you'll be the first woman
to preside over the High Court!
And Grard Le Gall can celebrate
with you on Sunday.
Lunch or dinner?
Neither.
Oops, they've fallen down.
- Christophe, cut it out, please.
- It's not me!
Stop messing around.
- Almost finished, darling?
- Yes.
Do some coloring.
So, it was?
- Won.
- Won, very good.
Like the number?
No, "won" with a "W".
Not "one".
If you look in the dictionary,
"one" starts with the letter
- "O"?
- How do you know so much?
Mom finished high school.
And that's why
your homework has to be done
properly.
Then you can go to college.
Looks like nobody in this dump
is in the red!
Pity, because money's definitely why
the old banker was bumped off!
He had 10,000 francs in his briefcase,
found empty in his charred car.
Yeah, but we've been digging
since yesterday and not got one lead.
We talked to all the locals on his round
and nobody saw him: he was invisible.
I'm so goddam sick of
these small-town dumps!
Thank God I'll be sent to Paris
when I wrap this up.
I say! Look at this.
Well, well, well!
His coworkers said he was reserved
but he's full of surprises!
Our artist's been busy.
I'll start dinner.
THE SORDID MURDER
OF BANKER BONNEFOND
was killed around 5:00 p.m.
on 12 November.
I hope your chief finds the guy.
I liked Bonnefond.
He's not my chief
and I don't think he's got much!
- Hi, Marc.
- Hi, Colette.
A coffee, please.
- Hi, Robert.
- Hi, Colette.
What are you doing here on your own?
Just my civic duty, Robert.
What do you mean?
I want to know where the paper heard
Bonnefond was killed at 5:00 p.m.
From me, ma'am.
Well then!
- Hello.
- Chief Andr Faureins, Arras Police.
- Colette Chevreau, business owner.
- It's my case.
She's the photographer's wife.
After you.
Thank you.
I'm positive.
Everyone in Saint-Lonard knew him.
Have a seat.
So
You know better than the pathologist!
I'm not saying that at all.
But on that day,
I saw Mr Bonnefond leaving his branch.
It was 6:00 p.m.
He was fit as a fiddle.
Are you sure?
Yes, I am.
I'm positive.
Very well.
We'll check all that again.
Thanks for remedying for
the police's shortcomings.
Just remedying.
Remedying the police's shortcomings
not "remedying for" them.
That's right.
Remedying the shortcomings.
You're right!
I'll see you out.
- Bye, gentlemen.
- Bye, Colette.
You know her?
Yes I mean, not that well.
As well as your wife?
Please
Boss, you've got a call.
Examining magistrate.
Yes, that woman.
Stuck me with a biddy!
Coming here is a waste of my time!
It's so very kind of you to call me in
but I'm more use in Saint-Lonard.
Especially when
so much has been wasted already
going over all the statements,
between those who know nothing
and some woman telling me she saw him
when he was already dead!
The pathologist is categorical.
He died at 5:00 p.m.
Any lines of inquiry?
I've got one.
It was for the money.
That's why he was killed.
Shocked?
You'll have to get used to it.
It's all part of the job now.
The banker had a mistress that he drew
in between drafting his statements.
And we need to find her
because she's the one who did this.
Seen it so many times in my career.
The mistress who kills for the money.
But on her own?
With an accomplice?
I haven't the foggiest.
But she knew his route.
She followed him.
And she pocketed the 10,000 francs.
Don't worry.
I'll get her.
Judge Leroux.
- It was a pleasure.
- Chief.
- Chief?
- Hello, ma'am.
Just come on in, why don't you?
- The afternoon of the murder?
- Excuse me?
- No kids or husband about?
- Now just hold on
- How'd you know Bonnefond?
- Cigarette!
- Thanks.
- I didn't know him!
No more than anyone.
You were his mistress!
So sorry for your loss.
- He bought your clothes
- What?
Your lotions
And you killed him.
Pretty stupid!
I did not murder him
and you have no business being here.
Why did you come to see me?
To help you and the case.
"To help you and the case."
"I did not murder him.
I was never involved."
You're starting
to piss me off with your haughtiness!
This isn't a game show
and we're not in grammar class.
This is premeditated murder,
so answer the police's questions!
That afternoon,
where were you?
And with whom?
My private life is private.
If you refuse to tell me,
I'll just find out some other way.
Especially as a woman like you has
so many secrets.
Am I right?
Why did you lie to me?
You know Colette Chevreau.
I don't.
Cut the crap, Ferrand!
You were with her
on the afternoon of the murder.
- Good grief.
- My thoughts exactly.
Come on now, spit it out.
Why'd she say that?
It's nonsense.
We saw her that day
but we were together.
It must have been around 6:30 p.m.
We were having a drink in the bar.
Are you sure it was 6:30 p.m.?
Yes, just ask Marc, the bar owner.
Or maybe later?
At 7:00 p.m., Robert?
Yeah, that's right 7:00 p.m., yeah.
Where was she before?
She didn't say.
And we didn't ask.
We're not close.
But we had been at the cemetery.
We were there all afternoon
in Saint-Quentin.
My mother-in-law's death anniversary.
What's up?
The photographer's wife
is taking us for a ride.
She's a smart-ass, that one!
First, she threw me a red herring,
saying she saw the banker at 6:00 p.m.,
which is absurd,
as he was already dead!
Then when she realized I didn't bite,
she told me she was with Ferrand,
but Ferrand was with his wife.
I know what happened.
She offed the banker,
her lover, at 5:00 p.m.
Then she sauntered back to meet
her husband at the bar at 7:00 p.m.
- With nobody any the wiser.
- I say!
Why'd she use Ferrand?
He was her lover, too.
So she thought he'd back her up.
Don't be fooled.
Those scarlet women like more than one.
It's you, Colette!
Hi.
- What is it?
- The police questioned me about Monday.
- The police?
- Yes, but don't worry.
It's nothing to do with us,
it's a murder case.
Murder? Have a seat.
- What murder?
- Bonnefond.
The banker killed in Saint-Lonard.
When I saw the wrong time
in the paper,
I went to tell the police
that I had seen him at 6:00 p.m.
after being in Arras.
I was doing right but
now the chief is being very odd.
I don't know why
but he thinks I killed him, so
I said I was in Arras.
What did you tell him?
- Be specific.
- Don't worry.
I was with a police officer
and he won't say a word.
A police officer?
Won't say a word?
Tell me about this officer, I'm lost!
He was my lover and we were going
to a hotel but I wanted to end things.
So I broke it off.
Then I came here with Franoise.
Jesus.
Colette!
You're a part of
a covert abortion network
and an officer's mistress?
Frankly, you
You're putting us all at risk!
We could get 10 to 15 years in prison,
not just me, but you and the patients.
That's why I told him about
my infidelity, it wasn't for fun!
It was for us, to protect us.
You know you can trust me!
Yes, okay.
Okay
Anyway,
thanks for letting me know.
You should go home.
Go home, Colette.
You okay?
Sure?
I was saying that to the missus.
We really can't complain!
Bye, Paulo.
Exactly,
it puts the town on the map.
Hello, Chief!
I don't usually do this
but I'll have a pastis.
The day of the murder,
was Colette Chevreau here for a drink?
With her husband?
I believe so.
What time was it?
No idea, we were packed.
I don't keep tabs on arrivals!
And what's this Colette really like?
You know her well?
Very nice.
- Friendly?
- Yes.
Some call her a snob, not me.
She's quite the bigmouth!
Did I say that?
No, I said she was friendly.
Chief?
That'll be 1.50 francs.
Berthelot!
Yes, boss?
- Shift into overdrive.
- Understood.
Is Mrs Chevreau a bit of a floozy?
She goes from one man to the next!
I mean, I don't care,
but yes, she is.
Does she often flirt with men
in plain sight?
Well, she's a very attractive woman.
Always very prim and well turned out.
I mean, some might say a pin-up girl.
So you're telling me
you'd like to see her gone?
No, I never said that!
No, she's a good customer.
Very well.
- Good day, ma'am.
- Likewise, sir.
- You think she and Bonnefond were?
- The banker?
I wouldn't put it past her.
And if she was,
he wasn't the only one.
This is off the record.
I can trust you, right?
Sure.
Thank you very much, ladies!
Bye.
So do you know Colette Chevreau?
Photographer's wife?
That's 50 cents. Yes, I know her.
Like other business owners?
Yeah, but Colette's different.
Different?
We don't really know her.
Is that right?
Why's that?
She's not like us.
She does things differently.
She's not from here.
And as for money,
she's got a lot of it.
But where from?
Nobody knows.
Have you seen her car?
And her clothes?
The money from Pierre's store
won't buy that!
Right, I see.
Thank you for your help.
It's my pleasure, Chief.
Be right there!
No rush, Mr Chevreau.
Excuse me!
Inspector Berthelot.
You got a safe?
- A safe?
- Yes, for your money, for example.
My money?
What are you on about?
Leave my wife!
Speaking of, what was she doing
on the day the banker was murdered?
No idea, why?
You don't know what she gets up to?
No, I don't spy on her.
Not the jealous type, then?
I don't understand
why you're here or what you want.
- Is she here?
- No! What's going on?
I'll tell you what,
but in return,
give that to your little lady.
- What's this?
- Read it.
You and Bonnefond?
What are you on about?
- You're over me, so you take lovers
- Don't, Pierre.
We have an agreement.
We said we wouldn't discuss it.
SUMMONS
TO MRS. COLETTE CHEVREAU
Robert was my lover.
But it was just a few times
and it's already over.
And I never loved him
because I'll never love anyone else.
I love you, Pierre.
You know I do.
I never slept with the banker.
Nor did I kill anyone.
You believe me, don't you?
Yes.
Come on.
Hi.
Hi, Marc.
Thanks.
Thank you, Mr Vandelle.
Take care.
Mrs Chevreau.
Just your wife.
Chief.
Please leave us.
Have a seat.
No, thank you.
What perfume do you wear, Mrs Chevreau?
Please tell me why I'm here.
A luxury perfume no doubt,
like your lotions.
What did you do
with the banker's 10,000 francs?
- You know I'm not involved.
- No, I don't!
I know Ferrand wasn't with you
on the day of the murder.
He was with his wife.
He's lying.
We were in Arras together.
Is that so?
So an officer
with an exemplary record is a liar?
So is his wife?
But not you! You never lie.
I'll tell you what happened.
Being your lover, you knew the banker
was going on his rounds with 10,000.
So you lured him into a trap!
Near the Bois de la Cambre woods.
That's absurd.
Let me rephrase that,
that's utterly absurd!
How do you think,
as a woman who weighs 55 kilograms,
I could kill a man
and torch his car?
Thoughts?
Obscene and profane.
Yet there's an uncanny resemblance.
That's ridiculous.
She looks nothing like me.
Once again, the day of the murder,
I was coming back from Arras
after being with Mr Ferrand.
When I got to Saint-Lonard, I parked
outside Desmets Bank behind my home,
where I saw the banker
on his way out at 6:00 p.m.
I even spoke to him.
I then went home to my husband
and we came here for a drink.
Just ask anyone, ask Marc.
Anyone can confirm what I'm saying.
Thanks for the tip, ma'am.
But I asked around.
I spoke to the baker, the grocer
the bar owner
So the gossip mill!
The gossip mill?
I've had enough.
Take her away, Berthelot!
- What?
- Come on!
- Get your hands off me!
- Come on, now!
Hey!
What's going on?
Where are you taking her?
- Where?
- Hands off, Chevreau!
Colette!
Mind the kids.
Don't worry.
It'll be okay.
No alibi.
Needed the money.
Everyone knew
she was the banker's mistress.
She's in custody.
In 24 hours, she'll have confessed.
In 48, the case will be closed.
Yes, you have myriad statements
and accusations against
Colette Chevreau.
But it looks to me
that you only focused on her
without exploring other leads.
What a cheek.
I've heard it all now!
I've 25 years behind me.
And you're trying to tell me
how to do my job?
Not only do I have tons
of incriminating evidence against her,
but my gut has never failed me!
Never.
A good day to you!
Chief Faureins?
Prosecutor Slignac.
It's no secret that I'm concerned
about the Bonnefond case.
Very concerned.
How shall I put this?
My superiors have been calling.
They have bigger fish to fry in Paris.
The Ben Barka case.
Sound familiar?
Of course.
So they'd like to see our banker case
make some noise
to help bury this political scandal.
- Understood?
- Of course.
Are you up to it?
I am, sir.
Chief.
Evening, my dear.
- You know what?
- What?
We'll soon be able
to call Paris home.
Been given orders
from the powers to be.
Quite a job, I tell you.
But I need time to plan the move!
One thing at a time, now.
- What have you cooked up tonight?
- Your pork tenderloin.
Lovely.
May I have some toiletries,
please?
Toiletries?
All right.
I'll get you that.
But before I do
enlighten me.
Tell me about yourself.
How did you end up
in godforsaken Saint-Lonard?
Humor me, Mrs Chevreau.
Help me.
Because this case of yours
it keeps me up!
I mean
frankly, I can barely eat.
I worked in
a luxury boutique in Arras.
I decided to give up my studies.
Pierre and I had a plan
to open a photography store.
And
he was an apprentice photographer then
and we'd just had our first son, Eric.
So
why Saint-Lonard?
After years in Arras,
we found the store
we were looking for right here.
But
how were you able to buy the store?
My father left me an inheritance.
That's what helped us get set up.
- You bought the store?
- Yes.
I own everything.
The store, the apartment, the car.
Let me guess, that's how you pay for
your perfume and dresses?
Yes, it is.
We don't have any money woes.
It was a huge inheritance.
It's enough to spoil myself,
my husband and my children.
So accusing me of
of killing the banker
for his money is just
It's just
But your lovers, Mrs Chevreau
People aren't just making
these things up.
It's all rumors,
people in Saint-Lonard gossip.
At the end of the day,
they know nothing.
And my love life
has nothing to do with money.
Nor with this murder.
All right then!
Let's say Ferrand and you
were in Arras together.
What exactly were you
two doing in town?
For the past few Mondays,
we'd gone to a hotel.
Which hotel?
- Htel des Flandres.
- Des Flandres.
Very well,
I'll check that right away!
- We didn't go that Monday.
- What do you know!
I refused to go
after telling him it was over.
And nobody else saw you in Arras?
So the locals saw you with Bonnefond
in Saint-Lonard but nobody saw you
in Arras on the day of the murder.
Admit it's frustrating!
What were you doing, Mrs Chevreau?
I went to
You went to?
Where did you go, Mrs Chevreau?
And why are you still lying to me?
There is only one truth.
You killed Bonnefond for his money
so you could fund your lifestyle!
- But I have money
- You always want more!
You always need more!
Why are you here?
To see Colette Chevreau.
She's about to confess,
don't ruin it
This is my case and I'm entitled
to visit the accused.
Thank you.
Hello, ma'am.
I'm Ms. Leroux.
I'm your examining magistrate.
I came to check on your conditions.
I didn't do it.
I didn't kill anyone.
The inquiry will determine that.
Get me the chief editor
at La Voix du Nord paper.
Yes, immediately.
I'll stay on line.
- Hello?
- Robert?
- It's me.
- To what do I owe this, Chief?
- I have a scoop.
- On Colette Chevreau?
- So you're up to speed!
- Sure am.
- Well, you've got the green light.
- Got it!
- Good.
- Tomorrow's headline.
- Thanks.
- Sure.
- I owe you one.
- Bye, Chief.
- It's too hot, Dad.
- It'll cool down.
Here, darling.
Work hard at school, Eric!
Mom's are way better!
She'll be back soon.
Here.
Dad!
What's wrong?
DIABOLIC COLETTE
Heart of the Devil!
Look, they're saying
She's no saint!
Simply unacceptable!
Give her the guillotine.
I always said she wasn't right.
She won't get my sympathy.
You don't know anything, so shut it!
- Can't touch your Colette.
- She's not my Colette!
- She's just another customer.
- Yeah, yeah.
That gaze
Stop talking crap.
- What's going on out there?
- It's the TV!
She and Bonnefond never hid it.
- Sir, we can tell you stuff.
- We know Colette!
Can you tell me
what you told Inspector Berthelot?
Well
I saw the banker
in his car
with the photographer's wife.
Do you mean you saw Colette Chevreau
with banker Bonnefond,
in his car, on the day of the murder
just before 5:00 p.m.?
Yes.
Are you sure it was the banker?
Yes, it was his car
and she was with him.
Heading towards the woods?
That's right.
And it was just the two of them?
Yes.
Very well.
All I need now is your signature.
A new witness.
This is all you need
to indict Colette Chevreau.
WITNESS STATEMENWhat are you doing?
Did you see the time?
Colette Chevreau
could be guillotined, Dad.
Right.
What do you have on her?
A witness
who is absolutely positive
that she saw her in the banker's car
just minutes before the crime.
They were heading towards the woods
where the car was found torched.
On top of that,
it was common knowledge
that she was his mistress.
Plus, her only alibi came tumbling down
like a house of cards.
Last but not least,
she tried to mislead the police,
repeatedly trying to
cast doubt on the time of death.
What more do you want?
Irrefutable proof.
The murder weapon,
the stolen money, a confession?
Faureins only investigated Chevreau.
He didn't explore other leads.
You're right to be skeptical.
But I'm sure you'll make
the right decision.
- Hello, ma'am.
- Hi.
- The belongings you requested.
- Thank you.
Good news!
The judge will let
your children visit.
- Thank you.
- Right then!
We're going to fight.
But
your case isn't easy.
At the same time
you have to admit that
you haven't made it easy!
No, forgive me.
That's not what I mean.
- I mean
- Get out, please.
No, hang on
- You're
- Out!
Very well.
- Hello, ladies.
- Hello.
How can I help you?
Is your wife here?
No.
Where is she?
In prison.
Didn't you see the papers?
No, I hadn't heard.
Can I take a message?
That won't be necessary.
- I've had enough!
- Eric?
What's wrong?
Come on, let's go.
What's wrong, Eric?
What is it?
My friends said Mom's a killer.
And a whore.
You know none of that's true.
We have to be strong.
Come in.
Thank you.
Have a seat, ma'am.
Right.
Mrs Colette Chevreau, ne Mercier
on May 8, 1936 in Roubaix,
charged with aggravated robbery,
willful destruction of a vehicle,
and multiple crimes
against Antoine Bonnefond,
banker at Desmets'
Saint-Lonard branch.
I have also included in my report
that you have declined a lawyer.
Have you anything to state?
No.
Just that none of this makes sense.
Please have a look at this.
- Do you agree that you are the subject?
- No.
This simply can't be me.
I have a scar here from
from my two C-sections.
That may be but it could be judged that
Mr Bonnefond chose to exclude that.
Very well.
A certain Mireille Degroz,
a housewife living at
4 Chemin de la Guerche, Saint-Lonard,
saw you on Monday, November 12,
around 5:00 p.m.,
with Antoine Bonnefond.
You were in his car, a Citron 2CV,
registration: 234 BA 59.
You were heading
to Bois de la Cambre.
Would you confirm this?
Forgive me.
No, I
No.
I wasn't with Mr Bonnefond then
because I was
You were?
I was in Arras.
You've said so but
your statement was refuted
by Lieutenant Robert Ferrand.
By him and his wife.
Excuse me?
We'll continue tomorrow.
Has your head or tummy been sore?
No?
Okay, deep breaths.
I can't seem to find anything.
What's wrong, sweetie?
I want my mommy.
- What do I owe you, Doctor?
- Nothing.
Thank you.
Do you know her well?
- I'm sorry?
- Colette, my wife.
She left me your number for the kids.
Yes, I know her.
Don't believe the papers.
Of course not.
Thank you.
Take care, sir.
DIABOLIC COLETTE
BEHIND BARS: EXCLUSIVE
ARREST REPORThe statement by
Jean-Marc and Didier Norsaint,
apprentice bakers.
In it, they state that
they attended parties that, I quote,
"were sex orgies".
This was at your home
in winter 1964.
It's as ludicrous as the rest.
Yet it is common knowledge
that you had extramarital affairs.
Yes, I took lovers.
I took lovers because
I could no longer make love
to my husband.
Why is that?
Because I didn't enjoy it.
We stopped making love five
years ago after Christophe was born.
Pierre is aware of my affairs
but we never speak of it.
We have an agreement.
But I love my family,
I love my children,
what we've built together.
Pierre's
my husband and I love him.
Let's discuss the motive.
How do you support yourself?
I live off the money
I inherited from my father.
It's substantial
and lets me provide for my family.
I'm sorry?
Yes, I was left a huge inheritance
that helped me buy the apartment,
my car, the store
and to live very comfortably.
But I already told
Chief Faureins.
Of course, yes.
Sorry, I'll have to call you back later.
What's wrong?
The financial motive doesn't fit.
A call to the accused's notary
confirmed it!
Why didn't Faureins tell me
she was rich?
Her indictment is based on
rumors and one witness.
"Diabolic"?
So she has lovers!
- Is that a crime?
- I mean
Hey, hey!
Hold up
Slignac and Faureins
wanted me to indict her!
I know they did.
It was convenient for them.
I'm done being taken for a fool.
Yes?
Anne-Marie Leroux,
examining magistrate.
- It's about Antoine Bonnefond.
- Please go, I'm sick.
Ma'am
Play somewhere else.
Your statement reads:
"I recognized the banker's car,
which he was driving,
and Colette Chevreau
was sitting beside him.
It was just before 5:00 p.m."
- Yes.
- You said you were positive.
Yes.
You recognized two people
at dusk in a fast-traveling car?
Yeah, I did.
Where were you?
I was
I was just there at the window.
Through that window
when it was almost dark?
You recognized two people
in a car speeding past your house?
Why did you tell the chief that?
I told the chief that because
Because?
The inspector told me to.
He said if I didn't say
what he told me to,
he'd take my children away.
Mrs Degroz, a false statement
is punishable by up to a year in prison.
But you can set the record straight.
- Bye now.
- Bye.
- Hello.
- Hi there.
May I speak to
Jean-Marc and Didier Norsaint?
And you are?
Anne-Marie Leroux,
examining magistrate.
Boys!
What is it?
Gentlemen.
It's about Antoine Bonnefond.
You stated to Chief Faureins
that you, and I quote,
"attended orgies with Mrs Chevreau
at her home", is that right?
- I don't believe it!
- Yeah, that's right.
Very well, so can you tell me
where Mrs Chevreau has a scar?
A scar, you say?
Did you see any scars?
I didn't see any.
- Maybe her knee?
- Yeah, could be.
- It was dark.
- Yeah, it was dark.
- Yeah.
- I'd say on her knee
I see.
- Sure it wasn't her elbow?
- What the hell!
Get out of here!
POLICE STATION
Excuse me?
- Hello.
- Hello.
May I speak with Robert Ferrand?
Lieutenant Ferrand has transferred.
When did he leave?
He left for Angoulme last week.
May I have his address?
Why? I can't disclose that to you.
- His address?
- Forgive me.
I have to run back.
I'm sorry, I'll be right back.
What's all this I'm hearing?
Reinterviewing witnesses?
Chief Faureins encouraged
several false statements.
One formally accused Mrs Chevreau!
He also withheld
the accused's statement.
- Meaning there's no case against her.
- So what?
You indicted Chevreau, did you not?
How well will you fare in this?
A mistake in your first case
will leave a stain on your record.
A great start to your career!
Hello?
This is she.
Who am I speaking to?
I can be there in an hour but
Ms. Leroux.
Dr. Bernard Lefvre.
I called you.
Mind if we?
Please.
So, for a few years now
I've been working
with Colette Chevreau.
Colette is an
intermediary.
If she hears of an unwanted pregnancy,
then she brings the woman to me.
I'm a doctor
and I perform abortions.
She was in Arras that day.
She was at my practice
with me and a young girl.
A sixteen-year-old.
She didn't want to say
to protect us.
She knows we're all at risk
if she tells the truth.
She's
Colette's an important person.
Now you have a reason to indict her,
I understand that.
And to indict me.
And all the women who aborted.
But I just don't have
a choice anymore.
I can't watch her suffer
such injustice.
And then
And then, I also thought,
perhaps naively,
that you being young
and you being a woman,
perhaps a miracle was possible.
There.
Please know that
I remain at your disposal.
Goodbye.
Dear audience, while still
possible, I wish to address you.
Until Monday evening, I was a lord,
a feudal lord in Contentin,
in short, a married man.
Since Tuesday morning,
our rule has ended.
A new law has been enacted.
It is a law reforming
matrimonial regimes.
It awards wives
a certain number of new rights.
The question is, thanks to this law
that has been enacted,
are women now equal to men?
- Hello, ma'am.
- I'd like to open an account.
I just need to see a form of ID
and permission from your husband
unless you are single.
Getting one's husband's permission
will no longer be necessary
and the new matrimonial regime
enables a wife to open a bank account
without permission.
- Really?
- No need for permission in that case.
Judge Leroux, here's the report
from the new pathologist.
Thank you.
Well then?
- Perfect.
- Wonderful.
Can the law wholly rely on science?
A new development
in Saint-Lonard may tell us.
Experts are embroiled in a battle
over the body of the banker
after Judge Anne-Marie Leroux
ordered it be exhumed.
If this new expert assessment
contradicts the initial one,
this would prove
Colette Chevreau's innocence,
who has been incarcerated now
for over ten days.
What the hell is this?
- I'm off the case?
- Have a seat.
I don't have time.
Given the new report establishing
time of death as 6:30 p.m.,
I've handed it over to Paris.
They're already in Saint-Lonard.
My only regret is Berthelot.
I know you sent him to get
Mireille Degroz's false statement.
You may leave.
Miss Leroux?
If it weren't for your father,
you'd be off the case!
I don't have to explain my decisions.
I'm an examining magistrate.
"The most powerful man in France",
in the words of Napoleon!
Well done, my child.
I'm proud of you.
So am I, darling. I'm so proud!
Thanks, Mom.
A toast to our daughter.
To her talent and success.
To you, darling.
Well done, darling.
Hello, ma'am.
I apologize on behalf of the law.
And personally, too.
I know why you were in Arras.
And this will be
the only time I mention it.
Mommy!
How are you, my boy?
Are you okay, honey?
A few days
after Colette Chevreau's release,
banker Bonnefond's murderer
was apprehended
and sentenced to 20 years in prison.
Earlier that day.
Arras Court, Monday,
November 12, 1965
This story is based on
a miscarriage of justice
that made headlines in France in 1965.
The death penalty was still in force
and abortion was illegal.
- No.
- What's wrong?
- Stop.
- No hotel?
It's over, Robert.
- Why?
- It's nothing against you.
- It's me, I'm done.
- I promise we'll be more careful!
Don't.
Colette,
you're unlike any woman I know.
- When I look--
- Don't.
I have to see you.
Please don't.
Don't make it any harder.
Come on, Colette.
- Are you sure?
- Just go.
Colette
- Can we at least be friends?
- Of course.
- Hello, ma'am.
- Hello.
- All right, Franoise?
- Yes.
- Ready?
- Yes.
- Thanks, Solange.
- Bye!
Bye.
No, don't worry, there's no charge.
- Hi, Colette.
- Hi.
- Hello. Hello, ma'am.
- Hello, Doctor.
To your right.
Franoise, is it?
- My dau--
- Sorry, I have to talk to
your daughter and hear her side,
if you don't mind.
How are you feeling?
I'm a bit scared.
That's natural.
But it'll all be okay.
Does
it hurt?
You'll have to be brave
but it's a quick procedure.
Why don't you want this child?
Because I'm not in love.
It was a mistake.
But I know I'll want
a family one day.
Don't worry, you will.
And when you decide.
Ready?
Hello.
Rinacci,
score-settling between Arabs.
Camise
embezzling at a garage.
But for you, Leroux
I've got nothing.
Get to work, gentlemen.
DESMETS BANK
Mr Bonnefond!
- Hello, Mrs Chevreau!
- Hi.
Would you possibly be able to fit me
and my husband in to discuss our store?
Of course I can, but not until Friday.
In fact, something's been bugging me.
It's your DS.
Zero to 150 in no time, right?
I really couldn't say.
Fast cars aren't really my thing.
Of course, you're a woman.
Yes, that must be why.
In any case, I can't afford
a car like that.
Oh jeez, it's 6:00 p.m.
I'm late for my rounds!
- So, Friday?
- Sure thing.
- Mrs Chevreau.
- Mr Bonnefond.
You have a counter in the viewfinder.
The rangefinder incorporates
a diamond-shaped focus.
And flash mode.
- Thank you very much.
- Hello!
- No problem.
- I'll think about it.
- Bye.
- Go ahead.
Thank you.
- How are you?
- Good.
All good with Mrs Marqueuil?
I guess, she ordered
her daughter's wedding photos.
I just saw Bonnefond.
- Got an appointment for Friday.
- Good.
- Careful on the stairs!
- Mommy!
- My darlings!
- How are you, Mom?
- Good day?
- Yes, you?
Not bad.
- Have you done your homework?
- Yes.
- Almost done.
- Off you go and play, kids.
It's Mommy and Daddy time.
It's out of service, guys.
- And for you.
- Thank you.
Look who it is!
- Hi there.
- Hi.
- The usual, love birds?
- The usual it is.
Colette's nice, isn't she?
So is Pierre. He's a lovely guy.
I'm not stupid, Robert.
- You're sleeping with her.
- What?
I see the way you look at her.
- You're screwing that whore!
- Quiet, people will hear.
Don't want a bad reputation?
You can make me look like a fool
but your cop reputation?
- God forbid it suffers.
- I said stop.
I'm warning you
once was enough.
If you have another mistress,
I'll leave you and take the kids.
- You were with her today, weren't you?
- Unbelievable! No.
- No idea where I was?
- No.
Saint-Quentin cemetery?
Surprise, surprise, you forgot
the anniversary of my mother's death.
Mr Rfabert!
Sorry I'm late but
Hello, gentlemen.
Hi there.
Poor guy.
- When did you find him?
- At 10:00 this morning.
We were out woodcutting.
Nothing to add?
Don't touch anything.
I'm calling the prosecutor.
I just wanted to brighten
the place up.
Homicide.
A banker from Desmets Bank
was found burned in his car.
Happened in Saint-Lonard.
Out in the backwoods.
I've got no choice.
Camise and Rinacci are snowed under.
I put a top dog on the case.
Chief Faureins from Arras Police
and his team.
Because I don't trust
the local police one bit.
He's your only contact, got it?
Okay.
Berthelot!
- Yes, boss?
- Tell Arras
to get me two extra phone lines.
We're going to need them.
I'm on it.
Not too miffed I got the case?
Not at all, Chief.
Don't worry, anyway,
I'll wrap it up in no time.
I won't be here long.
Of course.
Here we are.
There's my girl.
Congratulations!
- One of 6 women examining magistrates!
- Yes, I know.
Georges, please.
- What?
- Thank you.
Would you mind
not talking about work over dinner?
I'm not, I'm talking about our daughter.
Lord
bless this meal and those who made it.
And give bread to those who have hunger.
- Amen.
- Amen.
Maybe we could invite Grard Le Gall
and his parents over on Sunday.
Who?
You know, that petroleum engineer.
Come on, honey, leave her alone.
- Can't I show her potential suitors?
- No, you can't.
- Enlighten me as to why.
- She has bigger priorities.
And a man in a woman's life
isn't a priority?
I devoted myself to
my magistrate career.
I only married at 40.
I'm no worse off for it.
And neither are you.
This is her life, her career.
You are the first woman
to oversee a homicide investigation.
- I worry I'm not up to it.
- Nonsense.
You're going to succeed in this case.
And because you'll succeed,
in a few years you'll be the first woman
to preside over the High Court!
And Grard Le Gall can celebrate
with you on Sunday.
Lunch or dinner?
Neither.
Oops, they've fallen down.
- Christophe, cut it out, please.
- It's not me!
Stop messing around.
- Almost finished, darling?
- Yes.
Do some coloring.
So, it was?
- Won.
- Won, very good.
Like the number?
No, "won" with a "W".
Not "one".
If you look in the dictionary,
"one" starts with the letter
- "O"?
- How do you know so much?
Mom finished high school.
And that's why
your homework has to be done
properly.
Then you can go to college.
Looks like nobody in this dump
is in the red!
Pity, because money's definitely why
the old banker was bumped off!
He had 10,000 francs in his briefcase,
found empty in his charred car.
Yeah, but we've been digging
since yesterday and not got one lead.
We talked to all the locals on his round
and nobody saw him: he was invisible.
I'm so goddam sick of
these small-town dumps!
Thank God I'll be sent to Paris
when I wrap this up.
I say! Look at this.
Well, well, well!
His coworkers said he was reserved
but he's full of surprises!
Our artist's been busy.
I'll start dinner.
THE SORDID MURDER
OF BANKER BONNEFOND
was killed around 5:00 p.m.
on 12 November.
I hope your chief finds the guy.
I liked Bonnefond.
He's not my chief
and I don't think he's got much!
- Hi, Marc.
- Hi, Colette.
A coffee, please.
- Hi, Robert.
- Hi, Colette.
What are you doing here on your own?
Just my civic duty, Robert.
What do you mean?
I want to know where the paper heard
Bonnefond was killed at 5:00 p.m.
From me, ma'am.
Well then!
- Hello.
- Chief Andr Faureins, Arras Police.
- Colette Chevreau, business owner.
- It's my case.
She's the photographer's wife.
After you.
Thank you.
I'm positive.
Everyone in Saint-Lonard knew him.
Have a seat.
So
You know better than the pathologist!
I'm not saying that at all.
But on that day,
I saw Mr Bonnefond leaving his branch.
It was 6:00 p.m.
He was fit as a fiddle.
Are you sure?
Yes, I am.
I'm positive.
Very well.
We'll check all that again.
Thanks for remedying for
the police's shortcomings.
Just remedying.
Remedying the police's shortcomings
not "remedying for" them.
That's right.
Remedying the shortcomings.
You're right!
I'll see you out.
- Bye, gentlemen.
- Bye, Colette.
You know her?
Yes I mean, not that well.
As well as your wife?
Please
Boss, you've got a call.
Examining magistrate.
Yes, that woman.
Stuck me with a biddy!
Coming here is a waste of my time!
It's so very kind of you to call me in
but I'm more use in Saint-Lonard.
Especially when
so much has been wasted already
going over all the statements,
between those who know nothing
and some woman telling me she saw him
when he was already dead!
The pathologist is categorical.
He died at 5:00 p.m.
Any lines of inquiry?
I've got one.
It was for the money.
That's why he was killed.
Shocked?
You'll have to get used to it.
It's all part of the job now.
The banker had a mistress that he drew
in between drafting his statements.
And we need to find her
because she's the one who did this.
Seen it so many times in my career.
The mistress who kills for the money.
But on her own?
With an accomplice?
I haven't the foggiest.
But she knew his route.
She followed him.
And she pocketed the 10,000 francs.
Don't worry.
I'll get her.
Judge Leroux.
- It was a pleasure.
- Chief.
- Chief?
- Hello, ma'am.
Just come on in, why don't you?
- The afternoon of the murder?
- Excuse me?
- No kids or husband about?
- Now just hold on
- How'd you know Bonnefond?
- Cigarette!
- Thanks.
- I didn't know him!
No more than anyone.
You were his mistress!
So sorry for your loss.
- He bought your clothes
- What?
Your lotions
And you killed him.
Pretty stupid!
I did not murder him
and you have no business being here.
Why did you come to see me?
To help you and the case.
"To help you and the case."
"I did not murder him.
I was never involved."
You're starting
to piss me off with your haughtiness!
This isn't a game show
and we're not in grammar class.
This is premeditated murder,
so answer the police's questions!
That afternoon,
where were you?
And with whom?
My private life is private.
If you refuse to tell me,
I'll just find out some other way.
Especially as a woman like you has
so many secrets.
Am I right?
Why did you lie to me?
You know Colette Chevreau.
I don't.
Cut the crap, Ferrand!
You were with her
on the afternoon of the murder.
- Good grief.
- My thoughts exactly.
Come on now, spit it out.
Why'd she say that?
It's nonsense.
We saw her that day
but we were together.
It must have been around 6:30 p.m.
We were having a drink in the bar.
Are you sure it was 6:30 p.m.?
Yes, just ask Marc, the bar owner.
Or maybe later?
At 7:00 p.m., Robert?
Yeah, that's right 7:00 p.m., yeah.
Where was she before?
She didn't say.
And we didn't ask.
We're not close.
But we had been at the cemetery.
We were there all afternoon
in Saint-Quentin.
My mother-in-law's death anniversary.
What's up?
The photographer's wife
is taking us for a ride.
She's a smart-ass, that one!
First, she threw me a red herring,
saying she saw the banker at 6:00 p.m.,
which is absurd,
as he was already dead!
Then when she realized I didn't bite,
she told me she was with Ferrand,
but Ferrand was with his wife.
I know what happened.
She offed the banker,
her lover, at 5:00 p.m.
Then she sauntered back to meet
her husband at the bar at 7:00 p.m.
- With nobody any the wiser.
- I say!
Why'd she use Ferrand?
He was her lover, too.
So she thought he'd back her up.
Don't be fooled.
Those scarlet women like more than one.
It's you, Colette!
Hi.
- What is it?
- The police questioned me about Monday.
- The police?
- Yes, but don't worry.
It's nothing to do with us,
it's a murder case.
Murder? Have a seat.
- What murder?
- Bonnefond.
The banker killed in Saint-Lonard.
When I saw the wrong time
in the paper,
I went to tell the police
that I had seen him at 6:00 p.m.
after being in Arras.
I was doing right but
now the chief is being very odd.
I don't know why
but he thinks I killed him, so
I said I was in Arras.
What did you tell him?
- Be specific.
- Don't worry.
I was with a police officer
and he won't say a word.
A police officer?
Won't say a word?
Tell me about this officer, I'm lost!
He was my lover and we were going
to a hotel but I wanted to end things.
So I broke it off.
Then I came here with Franoise.
Jesus.
Colette!
You're a part of
a covert abortion network
and an officer's mistress?
Frankly, you
You're putting us all at risk!
We could get 10 to 15 years in prison,
not just me, but you and the patients.
That's why I told him about
my infidelity, it wasn't for fun!
It was for us, to protect us.
You know you can trust me!
Yes, okay.
Okay
Anyway,
thanks for letting me know.
You should go home.
Go home, Colette.
You okay?
Sure?
I was saying that to the missus.
We really can't complain!
Bye, Paulo.
Exactly,
it puts the town on the map.
Hello, Chief!
I don't usually do this
but I'll have a pastis.
The day of the murder,
was Colette Chevreau here for a drink?
With her husband?
I believe so.
What time was it?
No idea, we were packed.
I don't keep tabs on arrivals!
And what's this Colette really like?
You know her well?
Very nice.
- Friendly?
- Yes.
Some call her a snob, not me.
She's quite the bigmouth!
Did I say that?
No, I said she was friendly.
Chief?
That'll be 1.50 francs.
Berthelot!
Yes, boss?
- Shift into overdrive.
- Understood.
Is Mrs Chevreau a bit of a floozy?
She goes from one man to the next!
I mean, I don't care,
but yes, she is.
Does she often flirt with men
in plain sight?
Well, she's a very attractive woman.
Always very prim and well turned out.
I mean, some might say a pin-up girl.
So you're telling me
you'd like to see her gone?
No, I never said that!
No, she's a good customer.
Very well.
- Good day, ma'am.
- Likewise, sir.
- You think she and Bonnefond were?
- The banker?
I wouldn't put it past her.
And if she was,
he wasn't the only one.
This is off the record.
I can trust you, right?
Sure.
Thank you very much, ladies!
Bye.
So do you know Colette Chevreau?
Photographer's wife?
That's 50 cents. Yes, I know her.
Like other business owners?
Yeah, but Colette's different.
Different?
We don't really know her.
Is that right?
Why's that?
She's not like us.
She does things differently.
She's not from here.
And as for money,
she's got a lot of it.
But where from?
Nobody knows.
Have you seen her car?
And her clothes?
The money from Pierre's store
won't buy that!
Right, I see.
Thank you for your help.
It's my pleasure, Chief.
Be right there!
No rush, Mr Chevreau.
Excuse me!
Inspector Berthelot.
You got a safe?
- A safe?
- Yes, for your money, for example.
My money?
What are you on about?
Leave my wife!
Speaking of, what was she doing
on the day the banker was murdered?
No idea, why?
You don't know what she gets up to?
No, I don't spy on her.
Not the jealous type, then?
I don't understand
why you're here or what you want.
- Is she here?
- No! What's going on?
I'll tell you what,
but in return,
give that to your little lady.
- What's this?
- Read it.
You and Bonnefond?
What are you on about?
- You're over me, so you take lovers
- Don't, Pierre.
We have an agreement.
We said we wouldn't discuss it.
SUMMONS
TO MRS. COLETTE CHEVREAU
Robert was my lover.
But it was just a few times
and it's already over.
And I never loved him
because I'll never love anyone else.
I love you, Pierre.
You know I do.
I never slept with the banker.
Nor did I kill anyone.
You believe me, don't you?
Yes.
Come on.
Hi.
Hi, Marc.
Thanks.
Thank you, Mr Vandelle.
Take care.
Mrs Chevreau.
Just your wife.
Chief.
Please leave us.
Have a seat.
No, thank you.
What perfume do you wear, Mrs Chevreau?
Please tell me why I'm here.
A luxury perfume no doubt,
like your lotions.
What did you do
with the banker's 10,000 francs?
- You know I'm not involved.
- No, I don't!
I know Ferrand wasn't with you
on the day of the murder.
He was with his wife.
He's lying.
We were in Arras together.
Is that so?
So an officer
with an exemplary record is a liar?
So is his wife?
But not you! You never lie.
I'll tell you what happened.
Being your lover, you knew the banker
was going on his rounds with 10,000.
So you lured him into a trap!
Near the Bois de la Cambre woods.
That's absurd.
Let me rephrase that,
that's utterly absurd!
How do you think,
as a woman who weighs 55 kilograms,
I could kill a man
and torch his car?
Thoughts?
Obscene and profane.
Yet there's an uncanny resemblance.
That's ridiculous.
She looks nothing like me.
Once again, the day of the murder,
I was coming back from Arras
after being with Mr Ferrand.
When I got to Saint-Lonard, I parked
outside Desmets Bank behind my home,
where I saw the banker
on his way out at 6:00 p.m.
I even spoke to him.
I then went home to my husband
and we came here for a drink.
Just ask anyone, ask Marc.
Anyone can confirm what I'm saying.
Thanks for the tip, ma'am.
But I asked around.
I spoke to the baker, the grocer
the bar owner
So the gossip mill!
The gossip mill?
I've had enough.
Take her away, Berthelot!
- What?
- Come on!
- Get your hands off me!
- Come on, now!
Hey!
What's going on?
Where are you taking her?
- Where?
- Hands off, Chevreau!
Colette!
Mind the kids.
Don't worry.
It'll be okay.
No alibi.
Needed the money.
Everyone knew
she was the banker's mistress.
She's in custody.
In 24 hours, she'll have confessed.
In 48, the case will be closed.
Yes, you have myriad statements
and accusations against
Colette Chevreau.
But it looks to me
that you only focused on her
without exploring other leads.
What a cheek.
I've heard it all now!
I've 25 years behind me.
And you're trying to tell me
how to do my job?
Not only do I have tons
of incriminating evidence against her,
but my gut has never failed me!
Never.
A good day to you!
Chief Faureins?
Prosecutor Slignac.
It's no secret that I'm concerned
about the Bonnefond case.
Very concerned.
How shall I put this?
My superiors have been calling.
They have bigger fish to fry in Paris.
The Ben Barka case.
Sound familiar?
Of course.
So they'd like to see our banker case
make some noise
to help bury this political scandal.
- Understood?
- Of course.
Are you up to it?
I am, sir.
Chief.
Evening, my dear.
- You know what?
- What?
We'll soon be able
to call Paris home.
Been given orders
from the powers to be.
Quite a job, I tell you.
But I need time to plan the move!
One thing at a time, now.
- What have you cooked up tonight?
- Your pork tenderloin.
Lovely.
May I have some toiletries,
please?
Toiletries?
All right.
I'll get you that.
But before I do
enlighten me.
Tell me about yourself.
How did you end up
in godforsaken Saint-Lonard?
Humor me, Mrs Chevreau.
Help me.
Because this case of yours
it keeps me up!
I mean
frankly, I can barely eat.
I worked in
a luxury boutique in Arras.
I decided to give up my studies.
Pierre and I had a plan
to open a photography store.
And
he was an apprentice photographer then
and we'd just had our first son, Eric.
So
why Saint-Lonard?
After years in Arras,
we found the store
we were looking for right here.
But
how were you able to buy the store?
My father left me an inheritance.
That's what helped us get set up.
- You bought the store?
- Yes.
I own everything.
The store, the apartment, the car.
Let me guess, that's how you pay for
your perfume and dresses?
Yes, it is.
We don't have any money woes.
It was a huge inheritance.
It's enough to spoil myself,
my husband and my children.
So accusing me of
of killing the banker
for his money is just
It's just
But your lovers, Mrs Chevreau
People aren't just making
these things up.
It's all rumors,
people in Saint-Lonard gossip.
At the end of the day,
they know nothing.
And my love life
has nothing to do with money.
Nor with this murder.
All right then!
Let's say Ferrand and you
were in Arras together.
What exactly were you
two doing in town?
For the past few Mondays,
we'd gone to a hotel.
Which hotel?
- Htel des Flandres.
- Des Flandres.
Very well,
I'll check that right away!
- We didn't go that Monday.
- What do you know!
I refused to go
after telling him it was over.
And nobody else saw you in Arras?
So the locals saw you with Bonnefond
in Saint-Lonard but nobody saw you
in Arras on the day of the murder.
Admit it's frustrating!
What were you doing, Mrs Chevreau?
I went to
You went to?
Where did you go, Mrs Chevreau?
And why are you still lying to me?
There is only one truth.
You killed Bonnefond for his money
so you could fund your lifestyle!
- But I have money
- You always want more!
You always need more!
Why are you here?
To see Colette Chevreau.
She's about to confess,
don't ruin it
This is my case and I'm entitled
to visit the accused.
Thank you.
Hello, ma'am.
I'm Ms. Leroux.
I'm your examining magistrate.
I came to check on your conditions.
I didn't do it.
I didn't kill anyone.
The inquiry will determine that.
Get me the chief editor
at La Voix du Nord paper.
Yes, immediately.
I'll stay on line.
- Hello?
- Robert?
- It's me.
- To what do I owe this, Chief?
- I have a scoop.
- On Colette Chevreau?
- So you're up to speed!
- Sure am.
- Well, you've got the green light.
- Got it!
- Good.
- Tomorrow's headline.
- Thanks.
- Sure.
- I owe you one.
- Bye, Chief.
- It's too hot, Dad.
- It'll cool down.
Here, darling.
Work hard at school, Eric!
Mom's are way better!
She'll be back soon.
Here.
Dad!
What's wrong?
DIABOLIC COLETTE
Heart of the Devil!
Look, they're saying
She's no saint!
Simply unacceptable!
Give her the guillotine.
I always said she wasn't right.
She won't get my sympathy.
You don't know anything, so shut it!
- Can't touch your Colette.
- She's not my Colette!
- She's just another customer.
- Yeah, yeah.
That gaze
Stop talking crap.
- What's going on out there?
- It's the TV!
She and Bonnefond never hid it.
- Sir, we can tell you stuff.
- We know Colette!
Can you tell me
what you told Inspector Berthelot?
Well
I saw the banker
in his car
with the photographer's wife.
Do you mean you saw Colette Chevreau
with banker Bonnefond,
in his car, on the day of the murder
just before 5:00 p.m.?
Yes.
Are you sure it was the banker?
Yes, it was his car
and she was with him.
Heading towards the woods?
That's right.
And it was just the two of them?
Yes.
Very well.
All I need now is your signature.
A new witness.
This is all you need
to indict Colette Chevreau.
WITNESS STATEMENWhat are you doing?
Did you see the time?
Colette Chevreau
could be guillotined, Dad.
Right.
What do you have on her?
A witness
who is absolutely positive
that she saw her in the banker's car
just minutes before the crime.
They were heading towards the woods
where the car was found torched.
On top of that,
it was common knowledge
that she was his mistress.
Plus, her only alibi came tumbling down
like a house of cards.
Last but not least,
she tried to mislead the police,
repeatedly trying to
cast doubt on the time of death.
What more do you want?
Irrefutable proof.
The murder weapon,
the stolen money, a confession?
Faureins only investigated Chevreau.
He didn't explore other leads.
You're right to be skeptical.
But I'm sure you'll make
the right decision.
- Hello, ma'am.
- Hi.
- The belongings you requested.
- Thank you.
Good news!
The judge will let
your children visit.
- Thank you.
- Right then!
We're going to fight.
But
your case isn't easy.
At the same time
you have to admit that
you haven't made it easy!
No, forgive me.
That's not what I mean.
- I mean
- Get out, please.
No, hang on
- You're
- Out!
Very well.
- Hello, ladies.
- Hello.
How can I help you?
Is your wife here?
No.
Where is she?
In prison.
Didn't you see the papers?
No, I hadn't heard.
Can I take a message?
That won't be necessary.
- I've had enough!
- Eric?
What's wrong?
Come on, let's go.
What's wrong, Eric?
What is it?
My friends said Mom's a killer.
And a whore.
You know none of that's true.
We have to be strong.
Come in.
Thank you.
Have a seat, ma'am.
Right.
Mrs Colette Chevreau, ne Mercier
on May 8, 1936 in Roubaix,
charged with aggravated robbery,
willful destruction of a vehicle,
and multiple crimes
against Antoine Bonnefond,
banker at Desmets'
Saint-Lonard branch.
I have also included in my report
that you have declined a lawyer.
Have you anything to state?
No.
Just that none of this makes sense.
Please have a look at this.
- Do you agree that you are the subject?
- No.
This simply can't be me.
I have a scar here from
from my two C-sections.
That may be but it could be judged that
Mr Bonnefond chose to exclude that.
Very well.
A certain Mireille Degroz,
a housewife living at
4 Chemin de la Guerche, Saint-Lonard,
saw you on Monday, November 12,
around 5:00 p.m.,
with Antoine Bonnefond.
You were in his car, a Citron 2CV,
registration: 234 BA 59.
You were heading
to Bois de la Cambre.
Would you confirm this?
Forgive me.
No, I
No.
I wasn't with Mr Bonnefond then
because I was
You were?
I was in Arras.
You've said so but
your statement was refuted
by Lieutenant Robert Ferrand.
By him and his wife.
Excuse me?
We'll continue tomorrow.
Has your head or tummy been sore?
No?
Okay, deep breaths.
I can't seem to find anything.
What's wrong, sweetie?
I want my mommy.
- What do I owe you, Doctor?
- Nothing.
Thank you.
Do you know her well?
- I'm sorry?
- Colette, my wife.
She left me your number for the kids.
Yes, I know her.
Don't believe the papers.
Of course not.
Thank you.
Take care, sir.
DIABOLIC COLETTE
BEHIND BARS: EXCLUSIVE
ARREST REPORThe statement by
Jean-Marc and Didier Norsaint,
apprentice bakers.
In it, they state that
they attended parties that, I quote,
"were sex orgies".
This was at your home
in winter 1964.
It's as ludicrous as the rest.
Yet it is common knowledge
that you had extramarital affairs.
Yes, I took lovers.
I took lovers because
I could no longer make love
to my husband.
Why is that?
Because I didn't enjoy it.
We stopped making love five
years ago after Christophe was born.
Pierre is aware of my affairs
but we never speak of it.
We have an agreement.
But I love my family,
I love my children,
what we've built together.
Pierre's
my husband and I love him.
Let's discuss the motive.
How do you support yourself?
I live off the money
I inherited from my father.
It's substantial
and lets me provide for my family.
I'm sorry?
Yes, I was left a huge inheritance
that helped me buy the apartment,
my car, the store
and to live very comfortably.
But I already told
Chief Faureins.
Of course, yes.
Sorry, I'll have to call you back later.
What's wrong?
The financial motive doesn't fit.
A call to the accused's notary
confirmed it!
Why didn't Faureins tell me
she was rich?
Her indictment is based on
rumors and one witness.
"Diabolic"?
So she has lovers!
- Is that a crime?
- I mean
Hey, hey!
Hold up
Slignac and Faureins
wanted me to indict her!
I know they did.
It was convenient for them.
I'm done being taken for a fool.
Yes?
Anne-Marie Leroux,
examining magistrate.
- It's about Antoine Bonnefond.
- Please go, I'm sick.
Ma'am
Play somewhere else.
Your statement reads:
"I recognized the banker's car,
which he was driving,
and Colette Chevreau
was sitting beside him.
It was just before 5:00 p.m."
- Yes.
- You said you were positive.
Yes.
You recognized two people
at dusk in a fast-traveling car?
Yeah, I did.
Where were you?
I was
I was just there at the window.
Through that window
when it was almost dark?
You recognized two people
in a car speeding past your house?
Why did you tell the chief that?
I told the chief that because
Because?
The inspector told me to.
He said if I didn't say
what he told me to,
he'd take my children away.
Mrs Degroz, a false statement
is punishable by up to a year in prison.
But you can set the record straight.
- Bye now.
- Bye.
- Hello.
- Hi there.
May I speak to
Jean-Marc and Didier Norsaint?
And you are?
Anne-Marie Leroux,
examining magistrate.
Boys!
What is it?
Gentlemen.
It's about Antoine Bonnefond.
You stated to Chief Faureins
that you, and I quote,
"attended orgies with Mrs Chevreau
at her home", is that right?
- I don't believe it!
- Yeah, that's right.
Very well, so can you tell me
where Mrs Chevreau has a scar?
A scar, you say?
Did you see any scars?
I didn't see any.
- Maybe her knee?
- Yeah, could be.
- It was dark.
- Yeah, it was dark.
- Yeah.
- I'd say on her knee
I see.
- Sure it wasn't her elbow?
- What the hell!
Get out of here!
POLICE STATION
Excuse me?
- Hello.
- Hello.
May I speak with Robert Ferrand?
Lieutenant Ferrand has transferred.
When did he leave?
He left for Angoulme last week.
May I have his address?
Why? I can't disclose that to you.
- His address?
- Forgive me.
I have to run back.
I'm sorry, I'll be right back.
What's all this I'm hearing?
Reinterviewing witnesses?
Chief Faureins encouraged
several false statements.
One formally accused Mrs Chevreau!
He also withheld
the accused's statement.
- Meaning there's no case against her.
- So what?
You indicted Chevreau, did you not?
How well will you fare in this?
A mistake in your first case
will leave a stain on your record.
A great start to your career!
Hello?
This is she.
Who am I speaking to?
I can be there in an hour but
Ms. Leroux.
Dr. Bernard Lefvre.
I called you.
Mind if we?
Please.
So, for a few years now
I've been working
with Colette Chevreau.
Colette is an
intermediary.
If she hears of an unwanted pregnancy,
then she brings the woman to me.
I'm a doctor
and I perform abortions.
She was in Arras that day.
She was at my practice
with me and a young girl.
A sixteen-year-old.
She didn't want to say
to protect us.
She knows we're all at risk
if she tells the truth.
She's
Colette's an important person.
Now you have a reason to indict her,
I understand that.
And to indict me.
And all the women who aborted.
But I just don't have
a choice anymore.
I can't watch her suffer
such injustice.
And then
And then, I also thought,
perhaps naively,
that you being young
and you being a woman,
perhaps a miracle was possible.
There.
Please know that
I remain at your disposal.
Goodbye.
Dear audience, while still
possible, I wish to address you.
Until Monday evening, I was a lord,
a feudal lord in Contentin,
in short, a married man.
Since Tuesday morning,
our rule has ended.
A new law has been enacted.
It is a law reforming
matrimonial regimes.
It awards wives
a certain number of new rights.
The question is, thanks to this law
that has been enacted,
are women now equal to men?
- Hello, ma'am.
- I'd like to open an account.
I just need to see a form of ID
and permission from your husband
unless you are single.
Getting one's husband's permission
will no longer be necessary
and the new matrimonial regime
enables a wife to open a bank account
without permission.
- Really?
- No need for permission in that case.
Judge Leroux, here's the report
from the new pathologist.
Thank you.
Well then?
- Perfect.
- Wonderful.
Can the law wholly rely on science?
A new development
in Saint-Lonard may tell us.
Experts are embroiled in a battle
over the body of the banker
after Judge Anne-Marie Leroux
ordered it be exhumed.
If this new expert assessment
contradicts the initial one,
this would prove
Colette Chevreau's innocence,
who has been incarcerated now
for over ten days.
What the hell is this?
- I'm off the case?
- Have a seat.
I don't have time.
Given the new report establishing
time of death as 6:30 p.m.,
I've handed it over to Paris.
They're already in Saint-Lonard.
My only regret is Berthelot.
I know you sent him to get
Mireille Degroz's false statement.
You may leave.
Miss Leroux?
If it weren't for your father,
you'd be off the case!
I don't have to explain my decisions.
I'm an examining magistrate.
"The most powerful man in France",
in the words of Napoleon!
Well done, my child.
I'm proud of you.
So am I, darling. I'm so proud!
Thanks, Mom.
A toast to our daughter.
To her talent and success.
To you, darling.
Well done, darling.
Hello, ma'am.
I apologize on behalf of the law.
And personally, too.
I know why you were in Arras.
And this will be
the only time I mention it.
Mommy!
How are you, my boy?
Are you okay, honey?
A few days
after Colette Chevreau's release,
banker Bonnefond's murderer
was apprehended
and sentenced to 20 years in prison.