Love Letters (2025) Movie Script
1
The ballot is open.
The ballot is closed.
The results are as follows.
Number of voters: 566.
Votes cast: 556.
For an absolute majority: 279.
For: 331.
Against: 225.
Equality!
Silence, please.
My honourable friends...
After 136 hours
and 46 minutes of debate,
the National Assembly
has passed the proposed law
on marriage
for same-sex couples!
Paris
Spring 2014
Go on, keep pushing...
and breathe!
That was perfect.
- Like that?
- Exactly.
Your turn, Nadia.
Do what Cline did.
Hold your breath for extra power.
I've got it.
Cline, put your hand here
to support her.
Let's imagine
you're having a contraction.
Take a deep breath.
Hold it and push.
Go on, keep going...
No, hold it in.
No!
Ok, breathe out.
Stop laughing.
Why am I so useless?
- Shame Cline can't give birth.
- No, thanks!
Show her your eyebrow.
She can raise it and wiggle her ears
at the same time.
We'll try again next time.
Agathe, you've been pregnant ages.
It's my second.
My first is only 8 months old.
It's called back-to-back babies.
We won't have that problem.
You don't know.
You're lucky.
I wish my man could carry.
Dental Emergency Department.
- Call me after the meeting?
- Where is it?
- Parc Monceau.
- Wow.
I should've done your teeth.
Am I badly dressed?
Take my jacket.
- What about you?
- I'm boiling.
How do I look?
See you tonight.
Cline...
Georgia Steyer.
Born in Munich.
Is your address still
42 rue de Crime?
19th arrondissement...
- When is the child due?
- July.
It's a girl.
Do you need my partner's ID?
No, you're the one adopting.
You say "partner",
aren't you married yet?
Yes, since the start of the pregnancy.
She's your wife then,
not partner.
You couldn't adopt if not.
You can say she's your wife.
We fought for it.
So...
Let me explain.
When the baby is born, like all parents,
you must
register the birth at the townhall.
It's essential you do it.
You'll be on the birth certificate,
not as a parent,
but as a third party,
proving your presence
at the start of the child's life.
No need for notes,
I'll give you a document.
The child will have your wife's surname.
Change it after adoption.
The baby will have mine.
My wife took it when we married.
She's already had her ID redone.
The baby will take her maiden name then.
A married name isn't recognised.
What do you mean?
Before the adoption,
your wife has had this child alone.
You don't exist.
Marriage lets you adopt
but gives you no status.
Thus, your wife cannot use
her married name.
How long will it take?
Between 8 and 18 months.
Depending on how quickly
you provide the documents,
and the court's schedule.
It's an estimate.
The Taubira Law isn't a year old,
you're a pioneer.
I'll present a family court judge
with a file you've put together.
I'll need photos of you and your wife.
Photos of your family, holidays,
the pregnancy,
but above all,
photos of you and the baby.
I'll also need,
and this is essential,
15 written testimonials
from your loved ones,
attesting to
your desire for this child
and your involvement
in its upbringing.
When choosing your witnesses,
avoid asking only your lesbian friends.
Not that you only know lesbians,
but the judge is looking at whether
your child is fully accepted.
By your close friends,
preferably varied,
men, women, young parents,
and your families.
When you adopt,
fathers become grandfathers.
Sisters, aunts, for example.
I don't have much family,
just my mum.
We're not close.
How does she feel
about all of this?
I haven't told her yet.
She's homophobic.
No, she's not.
She's a pianist and lives in Prague.
I haven't had the chance yet.
Czechs don't have phones?
Do I need her testimony?
She won't be looking after my child.
The court has to rule.
They want to know
if your families support you.
There are some templates inside.
You can write me the cheque now.
It's 2,500 euros.
After the birth, I'll cash it
and we'll start the process.
- Everything clear?
- Yes.
Out of curiosity,
who is your mother?
- Marguerite Orgen.
- Right.
Not just any pianist.
You know her?
She's very famous.
She's not Madonna.
Thank you.
Her name is bound to help you.
- All the best.
- Thank you.
LOVE LETTERS
Hello, you've reached Nadia Hamadi.
Leave a message.
Ok.
Yannick, can I hear you too?
All together now?
Verse and chorus? Is that alright?
Perfect.
Franois, Aurlie, Emma, Agathe,
your sister, her guy,
your parents...
- Who else?
- Mila and Lomane.
Too many lesbians.
You can't have too many lesbians.
What's that?
A pregnancy app.
It compares the baby's size
to fruit and veg.
Right now,
our daughter is the size...
of an ear of corn. How cute.
A big ear...
Your sister,
her guy...
Your dad,
your mum...
- Who else?
- Selim.
Selim?
Why not?
It's a guy extra.
We party,
family isn't his thing.
They have to talk
about me with the baby.
Do you understand?
We need people with kids.
Who else,
other than Franois and Emma?
Nour and Adle.
I think they have two now.
- It's been 5 years.
- Since the kids.
Put them down, we were close.
Ok, Nour and Adle.
- Can you contact them?
- Yeah.
Who else?
Your mum.
It's crazy I need her testimony
for the adoption.
- She'll do it.
- Sure, she'll feel important.
She never cared for me,
but gets a say in my motherhood.
You distanced yourself.
I love your mum.
Everyone loves my mum.
You don't know what it's like
to be a kid in a hotel room
waiting until midnight to be fed
peanuts from the minibar
and think it's fun.
Don't mention nuts,
I've puked twice today.
I had to descale a guy
with 13 years of build-up.
Imagine?
I felt like a bricklayer.
"Indicate the events
you have witnessed personally,
knowing
the statement will be used in court.
It's punishable by imprisonment
and a fine of 15,000 euros,
to draw up
a statement or certificate
stating materially inaccurate facts."
It's not just a formality.
But you'll do it?
Of course, I will.
You're gonna have to play model mum.
To be a good mum,
you've got to invest.
- Got a tumble dryer?
- No.
A tumble dryer is key.
You don't realise the washes you'll do.
But you have two kids.
One's enough.
Food, vomit, pee, poo...
snot...
Three machines a day the first year.
If not, your apartment's a pigsty.
You're starting to freak out.
What scares you most?
Adopting or having a child?
I don't know.
When we had Erika, I panicked.
I had stress squits non-stop.
You never told me.
Think dads can admit to doubting?
We're judged too.
Often by women.
The unknown is scary.
Once the child arrives,
you do what you have to.
If you leave it on the floor,
it dies.
It's an animal.
Even less.
It can't do anything alone.
Watch him, will you?
It's great.
Really great.
I saw a Sybille today.
Pretty name, isn't it?
It is. I like it.
Wait, not here.
I'm hot.
Hello.
Aren't you sleeping?
I stole your sunglasses,
and your blue bag.
And your knickers, I've run out.
Hi there.
You don't bother knocking?
I've got the keys.
I didn't want to disturb you.
My daughter...
- Been back long?
- No, I was going to call.
- I'm playing in Paris.
- I saw.
- Will you come?
- Yes.
Know this one?
You got married?
It's no big deal.
How come?
You didn't tell me.
No, it's nothing...
Married for nothing?
No one knew.
It was just a formality.
What formality?
- You're not with Nadia?
- I am.
We got married...
because we have to be...
We're having a baby.
How wonderful.
What a lovely idea.
You're glowing.
Is it not too soon to say?
Had the all-clear?
I'm not pregnant.
Nadia's carrying.
Nadia is, of course.
Well...
How long now?
6 months.
Give her my congratulations.
It's wonderful to be pregnant.
- I wasn't stressed.
- Why not say everything then?
Marriage, pregnancy,
adoption, testimony.
She shouldn't need me to ask.
No-one knows how it works,
not even us.
You can call her then.
I'm the pregnant one.
I've done my job.
Mrs Steyer.
- That's you.
- I'll never get used to it.
Hello.
Nadia Steyer...
- It's Steyer.
- Sorry.
Maiden name, Hamadi.
You're 37.
Just over 6 months pregnant.
- This is your first?
- Yes.
Great.
Cline Steyer, you're 32.
You've never been pregnant.
No.
Mrs Steyer,
have you ever had anaesthetic?
No.
And you?
- Twice.
- What for?
Appendicitis and a wisdom tooth.
- Do you smoke?
- No.
And you?
Yes.
5 or 10 a day?
More like 15.
15?
So, Mrs Steyer...
Any family history of heart disease?
No.
- And you?
- Yes.
My dad died of heart failure.
I'm sorry, but you know,
this child has none of my genes...
Yes, I do.
To be honest,
it's my first time with two women.
I didn't want you to feel uncomfortable.
After all,
why not know about you too?
Right, why not?
Any medication?
No.
- You?
- Paracetamol for migraines.
- Any other notable family history?
- No.
Not at all, ok.
And you?
Yes, Alzheimer's.
My grandmothers.
On both sides?
It's good
you aren't carrying the baby!
Sorry...
I was joking.
Can't I have children?
Yes, of course you can.
It was just a bad joke.
You're right,
you heard my answers.
Please don't worry.
We see all sorts here,
alcoholics...
Their children are fine.
- I'm not an alcoholic.
- No.
Not at all.
It was just an example,
among many others.
I'm going to wet myself.
We'll wait for her.
- Does your head itch?
- Yes.
- Is it lice?
- No.
It's lice.
You can shampoo her then.
Not me.
Take Moustache
and find your sister.
Go and play.
No, not the sugar cubes.
I said no.
She never eats sugar.
N-O spells no.
Charlotte, come here, take Moustache.
Take Moustache, he stinks.
Go on, shoo, we're talking.
Kids are disgusting.
Not great, huh?
It's ok.
Charlotte was up at 6 am.
We made cakes.
Don't eat them, they're foul.
You can play softly, darling...
Yes, we're talking.
How'd you do it, then?
We made love.
- We went to Denmark.
- Why?
You can have an open donor.
At 18, our daughter can contact him,
if she wants.
That's great.
Can't you do that in France?
IVF isn't allowed in France.
Really?
Wasn't it just made legal?
No, marriage and adoption
were legalised.
Sorry, I had no idea.
So, you'll have to adopt?
Not me, as I'm carrying it.
You're an idiot.
You and Cline married,
isn't that enough?
I'm not an expert...
No, we have to be married
so I can adopt the baby.
Will that work?
We've got a lawyer.
It's just it can take more than a year.
Sounds risky.
You have to get on.
If I wasn't the father, I'd...
I wouldn't have gone through with it.
I hated him.
You were messed up.
I wasn't ready.
I really wasn't ready.
You aren't ready either?
I could have done it.
Done what?
The sperm donation.
No, we weren't looking for a father.
I'd have left you alone,
I give blood every year.
I don't hold the recipients ransom.
That's irrelevant.
Pipe down.
Sorry,
I'm not sure I'd have accepted.
- I wouldn't have either.
- Why not?
I'm ugly?
- Cline?
- What?
- Am I ugly?
- No!
Beauty isn't the priority.
I bet your donor isn't a little fatty.
A handsome Viking.
- What?
- It smells.
I can smell shit.
Sorry...
What's happened over there?
Come here.
- Are you giving birth in hospital?
- Yes.
Good, I did for the first,
not for the second.
Did it go badly?
I vomited a lot,
they said I had a stomach bug.
No, it was the pain of contractions.
It hurts so much.
Anyway, it was too late
for the epidural.
That's my worry.
Epidurals are great.
After 15 minutes,
you feel nothing.
After nine months without alcohol,
you feel it.
It went well then?
Charlotte weighed 4.8 kilos.
Isn't that right?
Right, sweetie?
I had forceps,
an episiotomy, the works!
The doctor had...
gardening tools...
You're a doctor, you understand.
I guess, I'm a dentist.
Otherwise, it was cool.
It was a nice experience.
Does the donor look like you?
No, if I carry the next child,
it'll be the same donor...
We chose him for his profile,
his motivation to donate...
Why exactly?
He said that he had a lot of siblings.
He says everyone has the right
to a beautiful family.
Of course.
Fuck!
Nour? What are you doing?
I'm coming.
Did she get poo everywhere?
Potty training's hell.
Toddlers are rough.
I can't wait for it to be over!
Will we sniff her nappy too?
That's weird.
Why tell me about her exploding vag?
What a sick thing to do.
Are we really that bad with kids?
We should go back to practice.
Never again.
Between perineum problems
and the kids...
When the little one hurled her compote,
I thought I wanted to have an abortion.
Don't laugh.
It's too late now.
We're going to have a child,
who'll be there all the time,
every day.
Shall we go out?
Let's go out.
Seriously? Queue jumping?
Love you, sweetheart.
You can put Max down in 20 minutes.
He'll fall asleep easily.
If Erika wants ice cream, it's no.
Alright.
Let's get going?
- You ok?
- Yeah.
Love you, be good.
Bye, little one.
- I didn't give him his bath.
- What?
You're not here just to babysit.
The bath is really dangerous.
You hold his head,
use lukewarm water, and that's it.
Erika will help you, ok?
See you, sweetie.
- See you later.
- Yeah.
Careful, he can't swim.
Do you want to play?
Do you have a book you like?
Look, I wrote poo.
Here we go.
It's baby bathtime!
Feet first!
Is this ok?
- Be gentle with him.
- Of course.
Erika, stay here.
I need to watch you.
I'm in my room, it's fine.
Behind the ears...
Now your feet...
All ok, not too hot?
What's the matter?
What's up?
Shit...
Fucking hell!
Erika...
Can you come here? Erika?
What's that?
Can you turn on the shower?
- It stinks!
- Hang on, I need you.
You're the babysitter,
no one's paying me.
What?
Help me, or you're going in too.
Everything's fine.
Shower on, please.
That's perfect.
Fuck, it stinks.
Cheeky rascal.
Thank you.
Your brother's trying to sleep.
I'm at the station.
Enough.
You've played, now it's bedtime.
I'm waiting for my train!
It's bedtime.
Hush, sweetie...
I love magazine horoscopes.
You're taking the sleeper train?
What's that?
- You don't know?
- No.
It's a train with beds.
You sleep on it.
I'll show you.
Where are you going? No!
To the bar car!
Enjoying that?
Delicious.
- Don't tell your parents.
- I won't.
You camping?
Our new bedroom.
You look like sushi.
I can't eat that.
Know what I did tonight?
I tried on my clothes, nothing fits.
Yours too, that was even worse.
While you party, I bust my bras,
and my veins explode.
We can go shopping tomorrow.
We need to save.
We've spent so much,
and she's not born yet.
If I stop working Wednesdays,
like women do,
we're in trouble.
No, but I've got a job too...
You won't be here,
and I can't work nights.
I'm bored as it is.
At night, it's the real stuff.
Broken teeth,
abscesses to be drained,
I've lost all that.
We can't both work at night,
but I'm not a housewife.
And we still have to earn,
it's not going to work.
I feel deformed.
I'm tired,
and you're not here.
I'm here now.
I can't plait hair, can you?
I don't know.
We're having a girl, we're girls.
I don't know
if we'll be role models.
Relax, we will...
What if she likes animals?
If she wants a cat?
I'm allergic.
I'll never make her happy.
I'll get you some tissues.
No, I swallowed it.
Nice for our daughter.
See, I'm hopeless.
I'll be back.
I'm dying for a ciggy.
It's not easy.
I have no photos of us with my mum.
In fact, I have no photos of her at all.
Come on, Sibylle.
We'll take the metro alone.
Mama's still sleeping,
after all her dyke parties.
- Why Mama?
- Why not?
Mama's cute, isn't it?
Auf Deutsch.
I'm not sure.
It sounds a bit old.
You prefer Mutti ?
No, I prefer Mum.
We can't both be Mum.
Why do you get Mum?
Finally!
Now your daughter's dead.
You're known to play complex pieces
that few pianists master.
You must practise a lot?
I never practise.
Don't all pianists work
on their technique?
At the beginning, maybe,
when I was a child.
Now I study compositions.
Flawless technique
is nothing in isolation,
the piece is more important.
- Your daughter is 7.
- Yes.
How do you organise family life
as an artist?
My husband no longer works.
He plays a big role
in our daughter's upbringing.
They're together all the time,
in Munich, and me too,
but I'm often away.
Being apart must be difficult.
For me or for them?
For everyone, I suppose.
Absence is one thing,
it's the reunion that's hard.
Yes, the reunions.
At times, I hold my daughter,
and she's not ready.
Other times, the opposite.
An undanceable waltz.
Like all of Chopin's waltzes.
They weren't written for that.
They're his diary.
This is a cry.
You can hear instability...
Turn it up.
And here, a call.
Like it?
That's Grandma playing.
Here, it escapes...
You can hear a sort
of promise for the future.
And sadness, as always.
It's always sad.
- What're you doing?
- Nothing.
- Do you ever eat?
- It's not that. Thanks.
- What then?
- Don't laugh.
Yesterday, I got a cotton bud
stuck in my ear.
It's still in there.
Don't laugh.
I'm afraid I'll go deaf.
I can feel a foreign body in my ear.
It's burning.
- Have you seen a doctor?
- No.
I'll look, and we'll call someone
if need be.
I don't want to see a doctor.
If the insurance finds out,
it's hell.
I've been under surveillance
since I turned 50.
They check my heart, my lungs,
they take my blood...
"Any arthritis?"
Know what my hands are worth?
Ok, but you're in pain.
The cotton has to go.
- A bad time?
- I have a patient, so hurry.
Sorry. I'm with my mother.
Brilliant!
- The speaker is on.
- Hello, Marguerite.
Hi, sweetie. You didn't come
to show me your tummy.
I have to work.
But come over any time.
This won't take long.
My mother has a bit of cotton
stuck in her ear.
We'd like to remove it.
Will tweezers do it?
Can you see the cotton?
I don't know.
Tweezers may puncture her eardrum.
I told you that.
You need something greasy,
so it'll slide out.
Got any Vaseline?
Why would I have Vaseline?
Nothing. I'll go and buy some.
- Or olive oil.
- That I have.
Be careful.
Let me see.
- I hate my hair being touched.
- You've no choice.
Can you see it?
Shake it a bit more.
Can you see it now?
I see it.
Go on, sit down.
Got it?
Almost.
Don't move.
- Got it?
- I've got it.
I've got it.
Thanks.
You've quit smoking?
Just about.
Why bother? You're not pregnant.
How much do you need?
What?
Your baby...
It must've cost a lot.
I'll write you a cheque.
I don't want money.
Why are you here then?
What do you need?
I don't need anything.
I didn't know you wanted a baby.
Odd Nadia carrying it.
I see you more of a mother than her.
I'm going to be a mother.
Ok, but you know what I mean.
She's older than me.
It was obvious.
Me next time.
What if there's no next time?
One child then.
Won't you be jealous?
Jealous of what?
How will she like you
taking care of the baby?
Nadia's my wife.
Were you jealous of Dad?
Yes.
All the time.
You're more and more like him.
Sorry you lost him so young.
He was 35 years older,
on two packs a day, only natural.
You don't choose
who you have a kid with.
I should've quit playing
when he died.
The crap you come out with...
I know you hate me for it.
Why wasn't I invited
to your wedding?
I didn't think you'd be interested.
When Dad died, you weren't there.
Nor when he was alive.
You didn't share my childhood
or any important moments.
You're not a child now.
Why not have them together?
- What?
- Your babies.
For two,
you should've had them together.
Who'd want two at once?
Pregnant together?
And giving birth together too?
You're right, I didn't think.
That doesn't work.
Thanks for cooking.
You're welcome.
I'm glad you're here.
Remember our dog, Saudade?
In my 9th month,
she spontaneously lactated.
Maybe you could breast-feed too.
Why not?
- It's worth experiencing.
- I'm not a dog.
But you're a mammal.
- Listen!
- No phones at the table.
I didn't ask if it was pasteurised.
That's ok.
A message from Sandrine.
Bernard's worse.
Try to call him.
Having beer?
Alcohol-free.
- Is Bernard sick?
- Stomach cancer.
Seeds and herbal tea are his cure.
And?
Nothing.
You're an oncologist?
I'm a doctor.
You did dentistry.
I chose dentistry.
Your grades were low.
Do I say
you're just a postal clerk?
Listen...
Bernard's cancer has spread.
He's dying.
Can you save him?
I can't.
Go on, girls.
If you write one each,
we'll have four.
Each one is individual.
No need to talk about IVF.
It's about us
and our desire to start a family.
The IVF was no big deal.
- Meaning?
- It was easy.
- Easy?
- Not for you, but...
They just put sperm in your vagina.
- That's easy?
- We've been trying two years.
With hormones, scheduled sex...
Yeah, it was easy.
Sorry.
We had to go abroad,
choose a donor,
Cline has to adopt, we got married,
it costs a bomb.
I don't see what's easy.
What about my coming out?
How I had to come here alone.
It wasn't instinctive,
imagining you sleeping with a girl.
Sorry, Cline, no offence.
With a guy, it'd be instinctive?
I don't know.
No, but with your sister,
we don't think of sex.
- Why not?
- That suits me.
Why do you bring it all back to sex?
Know what? You're right.
I love fucking girls.
Too bad, I love it.
Cline turns me on.
- Enough.
- Spare our daughter this shit.
We adore Cline now.
I hope so,
3 years before she could visit.
We needed time to understand.
It wasn't easy for us.
People ask,
when I say I'll be a grandmother.
- And it's no fun.
- Stop it.
It's no fun?
What do you mean by that?
Forgive me.
I'm very happy to be a grandmother.
So, how are you, Cline?
I bet no one asks now.
How are you preparing for the birth?
Don't overdo it.
She'll be there, right?
You sound like you did it alone.
You spent my births
smoking in the hallway.
- You took a really long time.
- Yes.
Prepare for it, Cline.
You'll get insulted for being useless
and yelled at if you get some air.
And take change
for the coffee machine.
And a toothbrush too.
You'll thank me.
Sit on the couch.
Go in the middle.
I'll widen it to get the tummy in.
You look so grim. Try smiling.
It's a bit sinister.
Great, Hammou,
an arm around Cline.
Love.
Let's feel the love.
That one's great.
Not waiting for me?
Why do you provoke them?
It's already humiliating.
I defend you and us.
You're aggressive, but we need them.
I'm adopting, we need backers.
Stop, it's going to work.
If you die before I adopt,
your parents will get custody.
- They won't ask for it.
- Says who?
Those boomers won't take care of her.
And your childless sister?
For one year, I'll be nothing,
you get that?
- I don't plan to die.
- Die or leave me.
The first year can be hell.
We're in this together.
- You or me, it's the same.
- But it's you.
You're not in my shoes.
She's already your daughter.
Have you all done the prenatal class?
The midwife will explain
when you need to come here.
Basically,
the contractions must be painful,
sorry, and close together.
Every 5 minutes.
If it's every 15, it's too soon.
We'll visit a delivery room
and I'll explain everything.
Come in and gather round.
That's it.
It won't be today, don't worry.
This is a delivery room.
We have 20 of them here.
You'll give birth on this bed.
Don't worry,
we lower the stirrups during labour.
We raise them to push.
Ladies, you'll be monitored
throughout labour.
We check the baby's heartbeat,
your blood pressure,
and the epidural level,
if requested.
If you don't request it,
you can bring a yoga ball
to help with labour,
dilation, etc.
Here, we do the initial care
in the same room as the mother.
She's just next to us
and can see everything.
Here, we measure the baby,
weigh it...
We give all the initial care.
Up here, there's a heater lamp.
Even if it's summer,
even in a heatwave,
leaving the womb
is a thermal shock for the baby.
Try to imagine
being in the snow for three hours
in a swimsuit.
That's what the baby feels at birth.
Are you ok, sir?
Give him some air.
Step back and get up, madam.
Sir, can you hear me?
Come with me.
We'll put you here.
Help me, please.
Go on, sit down.
It was just a dizzy spell.
- What's your name, sir?
- Yann.
Ok, Yann,
let's take your blood pressure.
- Does this happen often?
- Never.
No? Ok.
This is a rehearsal.
It's better now than on the big day.
Your lady gets priority then.
I'll take your blood pressure.
- Do you feel hot?
- A bit.
We'll get you some water.
Can you get him some, sir?
Alright...
Here we go.
Right, 90/60.
That's a bit low.
It's nothing serious.
Stay here for now.
Rest for a while.
You can lie down if you want.
I'll carry on with the others.
You'll be ok?
Let's carry on.
The baby area...
It's all ready to welcome the baby.
You also have oxygen here.
Close by, just in case.
- Are you ok, Yann?
- Fine.
Feeling better?
Feeling better?
Yes, thank you.
I skipped breakfast.
My sugar was low.
Really, it's true.
- Isn't your partner here?
- She had to leave.
Pregnancy makes life tough.
Know what she said about C-sections?
No, not really.
When's it due?
In a month or so.
Three weeks for us.
Are you ready?
I don't know. And you?
I don't know either.
I worry I won't love it.
Or maybe love it too much.
Do you ever think that?
Yes.
All the time.
Didn't you want to carry it?
What about you?
Did I look stupid earlier?
Yeah, kind of.
It did me good to see you like that.
That's good then.
- What's your name?
- Cline.
What?
We need a name
so it could've worked, but...
Cline...
It's nothing personal.
Hello? Hi, I'll let you in.
10th floor.
Who is it?
Your mother.
You told me to get involved.
Seriously?
- Are you moving soon?
- I don't think so.
You'll all sleep in one room?
We've bought a sofa bed.
Keep the windows closed.
The 10th floor is madness.
Kids jump.
They chase pigeons...
- She won't jump out.
- It's a girl?
That's good.
Let me do it.
- Nice T-shirt.
- You like it?
I need new clothes.
I never know how to dress.
Staying after the concert?
I leave the next day.
For Asia.
A 3-month tour with Beethoven.
Isn't Beethoven dead?
When will you come to see us?
When I get back, I guess.
I need to sort it out.
We're going to need you.
You want me to babysit?
No, to adopt my daughter,
I need a letter from you.
At her birth.
I need to adopt her, see.
I need people close to me
to write a few lines
that talk about us.
- You agree with that?
- It's the law.
Ok...
What do I write?
A few lines about my daily bond
with our child.
You know,
I'd have hated my mother
writing about us.
I have no choice.
Write it, I'll sign it.
It's for the court, we can't forge it.
Keep it basic.
I know how strong words can be.
People's opinions are unbearable.
You make things up.
Want to feel her moving?
- May I?
- Yes.
She's stopped now.
I think you calm her.
Cline kicked so hard in my tummy.
Mendelssohn can be annoying.
- Remember?
- No.
We're thinking of Sibylle as a name.
- That's nice.
- Sibylle Steyer.
Sibylle Steyer?
Initials SS.
Shit. Fucking hell.
Daughter of Nazi lesbians...
It's a lot.
We have nothing else.
You've time to pick another name.
- Only a month.
- Already?
A month from now, I'll be...
in Japan.
The Japanese are attentive.
- When will you come then?
- To?
To meet my granddaughter
or to write the letter?
Assholes!
For fuck's sake!
Cline, it's the last time.
I can't bend over, sorry.
Yeah, we know you're pregnant.
- Sorry?
- It's all we ever talk about.
You're ok.
I do all the work and I'm obese.
You should've let me do it then.
Are you serious?
I forced you?
Did I force you?
You know I had no choice.
Your time had come.
Hey, I'm not 40 yet
and you're not 20 anymore.
It was possible.
You just didn't say.
That's easy to say now.
No, I've always said it.
Are you happy to have a baby?
I'll give birth soon.
Gonna dump me with our daughter?
Another dumped pregnant wife?
Bullshit, I'm saying the opposite.
You weren't ready to be pregnant.
You were scared and didn't want to be.
Good job I made a move.
Otherwise, we wouldn't be expecting.
Ok now? Can we move on?
- Cline, can you watch Erika for me?
- No, I can't.
I have a big meeting.
My babysitter cancelled.
Be good, ok. Gotta go.
I said I can't.
It's a chance to get some practice.
Thanks so much.
Franois!
He's gone.
Come on.
Hurry.
Do as you're told and behave.
Is your mum a boy?
No, my mum's over there.
What's she doing?
Listening to the sound of the piano.
Why's she doing that?
To see how the audience hears the music.
But...
people all hear differently.
That's true.
She seems sad.
Shit... Well played.
Hey!
- Happy birthday.
- Thanks.
- How's it going?
- I'm good.
- Great to see you.
- Yeah, it's been ages.
- Seen the others?
- Yeah.
Who's the pregnant chick?
She's sexy.
She's mine.
She's gay?
You too then?
Whose baby is it?
Well, ours.
Sorry, but you need a guy for that.
No, actually.
- You're being a drag, man.
- I'm not judging.
I'm no homophobe.
But the baby has a father.
I'm the dad, ok?
I'll see you later maybe?
I find you cute.
It's nice to see pretty lesbians.
No need to be touchy.
Surely we can talk about it.
People have opinions.
Are you ok?
Forget it, he's an asshole.
Yes, I know.
I know.
- Want to go?
- Yes.
I'll get our things.
Sorry. I'm really sorry.
Run!
Run!
Thank you.
Are you ok?
Evening.
Why do they give me flowers?
I'm sick of this circus.
- Won't you sit down?
- No.
- Yes?
- Mrs Orgen? On stage in 5.
Ok. I can't play.
I can't.
My heart's racing.
I'm totally sluggish.
I have a headache too.
It's ages since I saw you on stage.
I'd prefer Schumann for you.
I love Beethoven, but Schumann...
Nadia loves Beethoven.
No, she said she hates the piano.
Here.
I wrote what you asked for.
What?
What you wanted for the adoption.
She hasn't been born yet.
I know.
I'll be away for months.
I can't change that.
What can I do, apart from play?
But a fake testimonial
is meaningless and has no value.
Just antedate it.
I can easily imagine you
with your daughter.
Ladies and gentlemen,
we'd like to remind you
that the use of cameras is forbidden
during the performance.
I love my daughter more than anything.
I've always thought
that if a fire trapped her somewhere,
I'd throw myself into the flames
to save her.
I sometimes wish that fantasy
came true.
Cline would have seen our bond,
the bond that I cannot express
or show.
I gave up nothing for her.
Nor did I seek to treat
the paralysing melancholy
that wiped me out after a tour.
The joy of seeing my daughter again
was real.
As real as the loneliness I felt.
I enjoyed experiencing it.
I didn't want to go without it.
When Cline said Nadia was pregnant,
I felt she was punishing me,
breaking the bond
to highlight my failure
and to assert her lack of love.
I was wrong.
Cline doesn't resemble me.
Since the baby's birth,
her look of admiration
for this little girl
relates the long story
that she's going to write with her.
Perhaps being a mother
begins by being present.
Cline is there.
She places her family
at the heart of her joy.
What more can I say in these lines?
We can't know what parents we'll be
before experiencing it over time.
Will Cline do better or worse
than if she'd been pregnant?
Than Nadia, who gave birth?
Than me?
Cline takes on the role of mother
and plays at becoming one.
She is working on her character,
the way all women do.
I read these words one day:
"One must carry chaos within oneself
to bring into the world
a dancing star."
I know this little girl will dance.
Are you ok?
The taxi's coming.
Fucking hell...
Contractions every 6 minutes.
You'll have 3 on the way.
- Will you be ok?
- I'm on it.
Yell if need be.
He'll kick me out.
Guys freak if you dirty their car.
It'll be ok.
We'll take the monitor off to free you.
- Are you ok?
- I'm fine.
It's quite an experience.
She's fine.
It might bleed a bit,
but that's ok.
Let's weigh her now.
Hello, you.
2.7 kilos.
That's not so bad.
We expected less.
Not a big baby, but it's great.
Let's put your hat on.
- Still ok, Nadia?
- Fine.
- It doesn't hurt?
- No.
The epidural is still working.
It's not easy.
But it's a good start.
She's a champion.
Everything's perfect.
Hi there, Mathilde.
Let's go to Mum.
- Is she ok?
- Yes, she's fine.
- She's wriggling.
- That's your reward.
Cline can go skin-to-skin
while we sort you.
Is that ok?
Take off your T-shirt
so she can lie on your skin.
There, we'll put this here.
Hold her.
Can I have some water, please?
This will be cold, Nadia.
I'll get rid of all this.
Let's get you comfortable.
You did a really great job.
You did it.
I've done a few stitches.
Tomorrow, I'll explain what to do.
Make the most of this.
- Ok, Cline?
- Yes.
- Thanks.
- Lovely.
See you tomorrow.
I'm putting the armband on.
Mathilde's sleeping now,
but she may wake if she's hungry.
Call us then.
Alright?
I don't believe it.
You did it.
You're both beautiful.
Hi there, Mathilde.
Hi, my baby.
It's fantastic.
- What's she doing?
- I don't know.
The ballot is open.
The ballot is closed.
The results are as follows.
Number of voters: 566.
Votes cast: 556.
For an absolute majority: 279.
For: 331.
Against: 225.
Equality!
Silence, please.
My honourable friends...
After 136 hours
and 46 minutes of debate,
the National Assembly
has passed the proposed law
on marriage
for same-sex couples!
Paris
Spring 2014
Go on, keep pushing...
and breathe!
That was perfect.
- Like that?
- Exactly.
Your turn, Nadia.
Do what Cline did.
Hold your breath for extra power.
I've got it.
Cline, put your hand here
to support her.
Let's imagine
you're having a contraction.
Take a deep breath.
Hold it and push.
Go on, keep going...
No, hold it in.
No!
Ok, breathe out.
Stop laughing.
Why am I so useless?
- Shame Cline can't give birth.
- No, thanks!
Show her your eyebrow.
She can raise it and wiggle her ears
at the same time.
We'll try again next time.
Agathe, you've been pregnant ages.
It's my second.
My first is only 8 months old.
It's called back-to-back babies.
We won't have that problem.
You don't know.
You're lucky.
I wish my man could carry.
Dental Emergency Department.
- Call me after the meeting?
- Where is it?
- Parc Monceau.
- Wow.
I should've done your teeth.
Am I badly dressed?
Take my jacket.
- What about you?
- I'm boiling.
How do I look?
See you tonight.
Cline...
Georgia Steyer.
Born in Munich.
Is your address still
42 rue de Crime?
19th arrondissement...
- When is the child due?
- July.
It's a girl.
Do you need my partner's ID?
No, you're the one adopting.
You say "partner",
aren't you married yet?
Yes, since the start of the pregnancy.
She's your wife then,
not partner.
You couldn't adopt if not.
You can say she's your wife.
We fought for it.
So...
Let me explain.
When the baby is born, like all parents,
you must
register the birth at the townhall.
It's essential you do it.
You'll be on the birth certificate,
not as a parent,
but as a third party,
proving your presence
at the start of the child's life.
No need for notes,
I'll give you a document.
The child will have your wife's surname.
Change it after adoption.
The baby will have mine.
My wife took it when we married.
She's already had her ID redone.
The baby will take her maiden name then.
A married name isn't recognised.
What do you mean?
Before the adoption,
your wife has had this child alone.
You don't exist.
Marriage lets you adopt
but gives you no status.
Thus, your wife cannot use
her married name.
How long will it take?
Between 8 and 18 months.
Depending on how quickly
you provide the documents,
and the court's schedule.
It's an estimate.
The Taubira Law isn't a year old,
you're a pioneer.
I'll present a family court judge
with a file you've put together.
I'll need photos of you and your wife.
Photos of your family, holidays,
the pregnancy,
but above all,
photos of you and the baby.
I'll also need,
and this is essential,
15 written testimonials
from your loved ones,
attesting to
your desire for this child
and your involvement
in its upbringing.
When choosing your witnesses,
avoid asking only your lesbian friends.
Not that you only know lesbians,
but the judge is looking at whether
your child is fully accepted.
By your close friends,
preferably varied,
men, women, young parents,
and your families.
When you adopt,
fathers become grandfathers.
Sisters, aunts, for example.
I don't have much family,
just my mum.
We're not close.
How does she feel
about all of this?
I haven't told her yet.
She's homophobic.
No, she's not.
She's a pianist and lives in Prague.
I haven't had the chance yet.
Czechs don't have phones?
Do I need her testimony?
She won't be looking after my child.
The court has to rule.
They want to know
if your families support you.
There are some templates inside.
You can write me the cheque now.
It's 2,500 euros.
After the birth, I'll cash it
and we'll start the process.
- Everything clear?
- Yes.
Out of curiosity,
who is your mother?
- Marguerite Orgen.
- Right.
Not just any pianist.
You know her?
She's very famous.
She's not Madonna.
Thank you.
Her name is bound to help you.
- All the best.
- Thank you.
LOVE LETTERS
Hello, you've reached Nadia Hamadi.
Leave a message.
Ok.
Yannick, can I hear you too?
All together now?
Verse and chorus? Is that alright?
Perfect.
Franois, Aurlie, Emma, Agathe,
your sister, her guy,
your parents...
- Who else?
- Mila and Lomane.
Too many lesbians.
You can't have too many lesbians.
What's that?
A pregnancy app.
It compares the baby's size
to fruit and veg.
Right now,
our daughter is the size...
of an ear of corn. How cute.
A big ear...
Your sister,
her guy...
Your dad,
your mum...
- Who else?
- Selim.
Selim?
Why not?
It's a guy extra.
We party,
family isn't his thing.
They have to talk
about me with the baby.
Do you understand?
We need people with kids.
Who else,
other than Franois and Emma?
Nour and Adle.
I think they have two now.
- It's been 5 years.
- Since the kids.
Put them down, we were close.
Ok, Nour and Adle.
- Can you contact them?
- Yeah.
Who else?
Your mum.
It's crazy I need her testimony
for the adoption.
- She'll do it.
- Sure, she'll feel important.
She never cared for me,
but gets a say in my motherhood.
You distanced yourself.
I love your mum.
Everyone loves my mum.
You don't know what it's like
to be a kid in a hotel room
waiting until midnight to be fed
peanuts from the minibar
and think it's fun.
Don't mention nuts,
I've puked twice today.
I had to descale a guy
with 13 years of build-up.
Imagine?
I felt like a bricklayer.
"Indicate the events
you have witnessed personally,
knowing
the statement will be used in court.
It's punishable by imprisonment
and a fine of 15,000 euros,
to draw up
a statement or certificate
stating materially inaccurate facts."
It's not just a formality.
But you'll do it?
Of course, I will.
You're gonna have to play model mum.
To be a good mum,
you've got to invest.
- Got a tumble dryer?
- No.
A tumble dryer is key.
You don't realise the washes you'll do.
But you have two kids.
One's enough.
Food, vomit, pee, poo...
snot...
Three machines a day the first year.
If not, your apartment's a pigsty.
You're starting to freak out.
What scares you most?
Adopting or having a child?
I don't know.
When we had Erika, I panicked.
I had stress squits non-stop.
You never told me.
Think dads can admit to doubting?
We're judged too.
Often by women.
The unknown is scary.
Once the child arrives,
you do what you have to.
If you leave it on the floor,
it dies.
It's an animal.
Even less.
It can't do anything alone.
Watch him, will you?
It's great.
Really great.
I saw a Sybille today.
Pretty name, isn't it?
It is. I like it.
Wait, not here.
I'm hot.
Hello.
Aren't you sleeping?
I stole your sunglasses,
and your blue bag.
And your knickers, I've run out.
Hi there.
You don't bother knocking?
I've got the keys.
I didn't want to disturb you.
My daughter...
- Been back long?
- No, I was going to call.
- I'm playing in Paris.
- I saw.
- Will you come?
- Yes.
Know this one?
You got married?
It's no big deal.
How come?
You didn't tell me.
No, it's nothing...
Married for nothing?
No one knew.
It was just a formality.
What formality?
- You're not with Nadia?
- I am.
We got married...
because we have to be...
We're having a baby.
How wonderful.
What a lovely idea.
You're glowing.
Is it not too soon to say?
Had the all-clear?
I'm not pregnant.
Nadia's carrying.
Nadia is, of course.
Well...
How long now?
6 months.
Give her my congratulations.
It's wonderful to be pregnant.
- I wasn't stressed.
- Why not say everything then?
Marriage, pregnancy,
adoption, testimony.
She shouldn't need me to ask.
No-one knows how it works,
not even us.
You can call her then.
I'm the pregnant one.
I've done my job.
Mrs Steyer.
- That's you.
- I'll never get used to it.
Hello.
Nadia Steyer...
- It's Steyer.
- Sorry.
Maiden name, Hamadi.
You're 37.
Just over 6 months pregnant.
- This is your first?
- Yes.
Great.
Cline Steyer, you're 32.
You've never been pregnant.
No.
Mrs Steyer,
have you ever had anaesthetic?
No.
And you?
- Twice.
- What for?
Appendicitis and a wisdom tooth.
- Do you smoke?
- No.
And you?
Yes.
5 or 10 a day?
More like 15.
15?
So, Mrs Steyer...
Any family history of heart disease?
No.
- And you?
- Yes.
My dad died of heart failure.
I'm sorry, but you know,
this child has none of my genes...
Yes, I do.
To be honest,
it's my first time with two women.
I didn't want you to feel uncomfortable.
After all,
why not know about you too?
Right, why not?
Any medication?
No.
- You?
- Paracetamol for migraines.
- Any other notable family history?
- No.
Not at all, ok.
And you?
Yes, Alzheimer's.
My grandmothers.
On both sides?
It's good
you aren't carrying the baby!
Sorry...
I was joking.
Can't I have children?
Yes, of course you can.
It was just a bad joke.
You're right,
you heard my answers.
Please don't worry.
We see all sorts here,
alcoholics...
Their children are fine.
- I'm not an alcoholic.
- No.
Not at all.
It was just an example,
among many others.
I'm going to wet myself.
We'll wait for her.
- Does your head itch?
- Yes.
- Is it lice?
- No.
It's lice.
You can shampoo her then.
Not me.
Take Moustache
and find your sister.
Go and play.
No, not the sugar cubes.
I said no.
She never eats sugar.
N-O spells no.
Charlotte, come here, take Moustache.
Take Moustache, he stinks.
Go on, shoo, we're talking.
Kids are disgusting.
Not great, huh?
It's ok.
Charlotte was up at 6 am.
We made cakes.
Don't eat them, they're foul.
You can play softly, darling...
Yes, we're talking.
How'd you do it, then?
We made love.
- We went to Denmark.
- Why?
You can have an open donor.
At 18, our daughter can contact him,
if she wants.
That's great.
Can't you do that in France?
IVF isn't allowed in France.
Really?
Wasn't it just made legal?
No, marriage and adoption
were legalised.
Sorry, I had no idea.
So, you'll have to adopt?
Not me, as I'm carrying it.
You're an idiot.
You and Cline married,
isn't that enough?
I'm not an expert...
No, we have to be married
so I can adopt the baby.
Will that work?
We've got a lawyer.
It's just it can take more than a year.
Sounds risky.
You have to get on.
If I wasn't the father, I'd...
I wouldn't have gone through with it.
I hated him.
You were messed up.
I wasn't ready.
I really wasn't ready.
You aren't ready either?
I could have done it.
Done what?
The sperm donation.
No, we weren't looking for a father.
I'd have left you alone,
I give blood every year.
I don't hold the recipients ransom.
That's irrelevant.
Pipe down.
Sorry,
I'm not sure I'd have accepted.
- I wouldn't have either.
- Why not?
I'm ugly?
- Cline?
- What?
- Am I ugly?
- No!
Beauty isn't the priority.
I bet your donor isn't a little fatty.
A handsome Viking.
- What?
- It smells.
I can smell shit.
Sorry...
What's happened over there?
Come here.
- Are you giving birth in hospital?
- Yes.
Good, I did for the first,
not for the second.
Did it go badly?
I vomited a lot,
they said I had a stomach bug.
No, it was the pain of contractions.
It hurts so much.
Anyway, it was too late
for the epidural.
That's my worry.
Epidurals are great.
After 15 minutes,
you feel nothing.
After nine months without alcohol,
you feel it.
It went well then?
Charlotte weighed 4.8 kilos.
Isn't that right?
Right, sweetie?
I had forceps,
an episiotomy, the works!
The doctor had...
gardening tools...
You're a doctor, you understand.
I guess, I'm a dentist.
Otherwise, it was cool.
It was a nice experience.
Does the donor look like you?
No, if I carry the next child,
it'll be the same donor...
We chose him for his profile,
his motivation to donate...
Why exactly?
He said that he had a lot of siblings.
He says everyone has the right
to a beautiful family.
Of course.
Fuck!
Nour? What are you doing?
I'm coming.
Did she get poo everywhere?
Potty training's hell.
Toddlers are rough.
I can't wait for it to be over!
Will we sniff her nappy too?
That's weird.
Why tell me about her exploding vag?
What a sick thing to do.
Are we really that bad with kids?
We should go back to practice.
Never again.
Between perineum problems
and the kids...
When the little one hurled her compote,
I thought I wanted to have an abortion.
Don't laugh.
It's too late now.
We're going to have a child,
who'll be there all the time,
every day.
Shall we go out?
Let's go out.
Seriously? Queue jumping?
Love you, sweetheart.
You can put Max down in 20 minutes.
He'll fall asleep easily.
If Erika wants ice cream, it's no.
Alright.
Let's get going?
- You ok?
- Yeah.
Love you, be good.
Bye, little one.
- I didn't give him his bath.
- What?
You're not here just to babysit.
The bath is really dangerous.
You hold his head,
use lukewarm water, and that's it.
Erika will help you, ok?
See you, sweetie.
- See you later.
- Yeah.
Careful, he can't swim.
Do you want to play?
Do you have a book you like?
Look, I wrote poo.
Here we go.
It's baby bathtime!
Feet first!
Is this ok?
- Be gentle with him.
- Of course.
Erika, stay here.
I need to watch you.
I'm in my room, it's fine.
Behind the ears...
Now your feet...
All ok, not too hot?
What's the matter?
What's up?
Shit...
Fucking hell!
Erika...
Can you come here? Erika?
What's that?
Can you turn on the shower?
- It stinks!
- Hang on, I need you.
You're the babysitter,
no one's paying me.
What?
Help me, or you're going in too.
Everything's fine.
Shower on, please.
That's perfect.
Fuck, it stinks.
Cheeky rascal.
Thank you.
Your brother's trying to sleep.
I'm at the station.
Enough.
You've played, now it's bedtime.
I'm waiting for my train!
It's bedtime.
Hush, sweetie...
I love magazine horoscopes.
You're taking the sleeper train?
What's that?
- You don't know?
- No.
It's a train with beds.
You sleep on it.
I'll show you.
Where are you going? No!
To the bar car!
Enjoying that?
Delicious.
- Don't tell your parents.
- I won't.
You camping?
Our new bedroom.
You look like sushi.
I can't eat that.
Know what I did tonight?
I tried on my clothes, nothing fits.
Yours too, that was even worse.
While you party, I bust my bras,
and my veins explode.
We can go shopping tomorrow.
We need to save.
We've spent so much,
and she's not born yet.
If I stop working Wednesdays,
like women do,
we're in trouble.
No, but I've got a job too...
You won't be here,
and I can't work nights.
I'm bored as it is.
At night, it's the real stuff.
Broken teeth,
abscesses to be drained,
I've lost all that.
We can't both work at night,
but I'm not a housewife.
And we still have to earn,
it's not going to work.
I feel deformed.
I'm tired,
and you're not here.
I'm here now.
I can't plait hair, can you?
I don't know.
We're having a girl, we're girls.
I don't know
if we'll be role models.
Relax, we will...
What if she likes animals?
If she wants a cat?
I'm allergic.
I'll never make her happy.
I'll get you some tissues.
No, I swallowed it.
Nice for our daughter.
See, I'm hopeless.
I'll be back.
I'm dying for a ciggy.
It's not easy.
I have no photos of us with my mum.
In fact, I have no photos of her at all.
Come on, Sibylle.
We'll take the metro alone.
Mama's still sleeping,
after all her dyke parties.
- Why Mama?
- Why not?
Mama's cute, isn't it?
Auf Deutsch.
I'm not sure.
It sounds a bit old.
You prefer Mutti ?
No, I prefer Mum.
We can't both be Mum.
Why do you get Mum?
Finally!
Now your daughter's dead.
You're known to play complex pieces
that few pianists master.
You must practise a lot?
I never practise.
Don't all pianists work
on their technique?
At the beginning, maybe,
when I was a child.
Now I study compositions.
Flawless technique
is nothing in isolation,
the piece is more important.
- Your daughter is 7.
- Yes.
How do you organise family life
as an artist?
My husband no longer works.
He plays a big role
in our daughter's upbringing.
They're together all the time,
in Munich, and me too,
but I'm often away.
Being apart must be difficult.
For me or for them?
For everyone, I suppose.
Absence is one thing,
it's the reunion that's hard.
Yes, the reunions.
At times, I hold my daughter,
and she's not ready.
Other times, the opposite.
An undanceable waltz.
Like all of Chopin's waltzes.
They weren't written for that.
They're his diary.
This is a cry.
You can hear instability...
Turn it up.
And here, a call.
Like it?
That's Grandma playing.
Here, it escapes...
You can hear a sort
of promise for the future.
And sadness, as always.
It's always sad.
- What're you doing?
- Nothing.
- Do you ever eat?
- It's not that. Thanks.
- What then?
- Don't laugh.
Yesterday, I got a cotton bud
stuck in my ear.
It's still in there.
Don't laugh.
I'm afraid I'll go deaf.
I can feel a foreign body in my ear.
It's burning.
- Have you seen a doctor?
- No.
I'll look, and we'll call someone
if need be.
I don't want to see a doctor.
If the insurance finds out,
it's hell.
I've been under surveillance
since I turned 50.
They check my heart, my lungs,
they take my blood...
"Any arthritis?"
Know what my hands are worth?
Ok, but you're in pain.
The cotton has to go.
- A bad time?
- I have a patient, so hurry.
Sorry. I'm with my mother.
Brilliant!
- The speaker is on.
- Hello, Marguerite.
Hi, sweetie. You didn't come
to show me your tummy.
I have to work.
But come over any time.
This won't take long.
My mother has a bit of cotton
stuck in her ear.
We'd like to remove it.
Will tweezers do it?
Can you see the cotton?
I don't know.
Tweezers may puncture her eardrum.
I told you that.
You need something greasy,
so it'll slide out.
Got any Vaseline?
Why would I have Vaseline?
Nothing. I'll go and buy some.
- Or olive oil.
- That I have.
Be careful.
Let me see.
- I hate my hair being touched.
- You've no choice.
Can you see it?
Shake it a bit more.
Can you see it now?
I see it.
Go on, sit down.
Got it?
Almost.
Don't move.
- Got it?
- I've got it.
I've got it.
Thanks.
You've quit smoking?
Just about.
Why bother? You're not pregnant.
How much do you need?
What?
Your baby...
It must've cost a lot.
I'll write you a cheque.
I don't want money.
Why are you here then?
What do you need?
I don't need anything.
I didn't know you wanted a baby.
Odd Nadia carrying it.
I see you more of a mother than her.
I'm going to be a mother.
Ok, but you know what I mean.
She's older than me.
It was obvious.
Me next time.
What if there's no next time?
One child then.
Won't you be jealous?
Jealous of what?
How will she like you
taking care of the baby?
Nadia's my wife.
Were you jealous of Dad?
Yes.
All the time.
You're more and more like him.
Sorry you lost him so young.
He was 35 years older,
on two packs a day, only natural.
You don't choose
who you have a kid with.
I should've quit playing
when he died.
The crap you come out with...
I know you hate me for it.
Why wasn't I invited
to your wedding?
I didn't think you'd be interested.
When Dad died, you weren't there.
Nor when he was alive.
You didn't share my childhood
or any important moments.
You're not a child now.
Why not have them together?
- What?
- Your babies.
For two,
you should've had them together.
Who'd want two at once?
Pregnant together?
And giving birth together too?
You're right, I didn't think.
That doesn't work.
Thanks for cooking.
You're welcome.
I'm glad you're here.
Remember our dog, Saudade?
In my 9th month,
she spontaneously lactated.
Maybe you could breast-feed too.
Why not?
- It's worth experiencing.
- I'm not a dog.
But you're a mammal.
- Listen!
- No phones at the table.
I didn't ask if it was pasteurised.
That's ok.
A message from Sandrine.
Bernard's worse.
Try to call him.
Having beer?
Alcohol-free.
- Is Bernard sick?
- Stomach cancer.
Seeds and herbal tea are his cure.
And?
Nothing.
You're an oncologist?
I'm a doctor.
You did dentistry.
I chose dentistry.
Your grades were low.
Do I say
you're just a postal clerk?
Listen...
Bernard's cancer has spread.
He's dying.
Can you save him?
I can't.
Go on, girls.
If you write one each,
we'll have four.
Each one is individual.
No need to talk about IVF.
It's about us
and our desire to start a family.
The IVF was no big deal.
- Meaning?
- It was easy.
- Easy?
- Not for you, but...
They just put sperm in your vagina.
- That's easy?
- We've been trying two years.
With hormones, scheduled sex...
Yeah, it was easy.
Sorry.
We had to go abroad,
choose a donor,
Cline has to adopt, we got married,
it costs a bomb.
I don't see what's easy.
What about my coming out?
How I had to come here alone.
It wasn't instinctive,
imagining you sleeping with a girl.
Sorry, Cline, no offence.
With a guy, it'd be instinctive?
I don't know.
No, but with your sister,
we don't think of sex.
- Why not?
- That suits me.
Why do you bring it all back to sex?
Know what? You're right.
I love fucking girls.
Too bad, I love it.
Cline turns me on.
- Enough.
- Spare our daughter this shit.
We adore Cline now.
I hope so,
3 years before she could visit.
We needed time to understand.
It wasn't easy for us.
People ask,
when I say I'll be a grandmother.
- And it's no fun.
- Stop it.
It's no fun?
What do you mean by that?
Forgive me.
I'm very happy to be a grandmother.
So, how are you, Cline?
I bet no one asks now.
How are you preparing for the birth?
Don't overdo it.
She'll be there, right?
You sound like you did it alone.
You spent my births
smoking in the hallway.
- You took a really long time.
- Yes.
Prepare for it, Cline.
You'll get insulted for being useless
and yelled at if you get some air.
And take change
for the coffee machine.
And a toothbrush too.
You'll thank me.
Sit on the couch.
Go in the middle.
I'll widen it to get the tummy in.
You look so grim. Try smiling.
It's a bit sinister.
Great, Hammou,
an arm around Cline.
Love.
Let's feel the love.
That one's great.
Not waiting for me?
Why do you provoke them?
It's already humiliating.
I defend you and us.
You're aggressive, but we need them.
I'm adopting, we need backers.
Stop, it's going to work.
If you die before I adopt,
your parents will get custody.
- They won't ask for it.
- Says who?
Those boomers won't take care of her.
And your childless sister?
For one year, I'll be nothing,
you get that?
- I don't plan to die.
- Die or leave me.
The first year can be hell.
We're in this together.
- You or me, it's the same.
- But it's you.
You're not in my shoes.
She's already your daughter.
Have you all done the prenatal class?
The midwife will explain
when you need to come here.
Basically,
the contractions must be painful,
sorry, and close together.
Every 5 minutes.
If it's every 15, it's too soon.
We'll visit a delivery room
and I'll explain everything.
Come in and gather round.
That's it.
It won't be today, don't worry.
This is a delivery room.
We have 20 of them here.
You'll give birth on this bed.
Don't worry,
we lower the stirrups during labour.
We raise them to push.
Ladies, you'll be monitored
throughout labour.
We check the baby's heartbeat,
your blood pressure,
and the epidural level,
if requested.
If you don't request it,
you can bring a yoga ball
to help with labour,
dilation, etc.
Here, we do the initial care
in the same room as the mother.
She's just next to us
and can see everything.
Here, we measure the baby,
weigh it...
We give all the initial care.
Up here, there's a heater lamp.
Even if it's summer,
even in a heatwave,
leaving the womb
is a thermal shock for the baby.
Try to imagine
being in the snow for three hours
in a swimsuit.
That's what the baby feels at birth.
Are you ok, sir?
Give him some air.
Step back and get up, madam.
Sir, can you hear me?
Come with me.
We'll put you here.
Help me, please.
Go on, sit down.
It was just a dizzy spell.
- What's your name, sir?
- Yann.
Ok, Yann,
let's take your blood pressure.
- Does this happen often?
- Never.
No? Ok.
This is a rehearsal.
It's better now than on the big day.
Your lady gets priority then.
I'll take your blood pressure.
- Do you feel hot?
- A bit.
We'll get you some water.
Can you get him some, sir?
Alright...
Here we go.
Right, 90/60.
That's a bit low.
It's nothing serious.
Stay here for now.
Rest for a while.
You can lie down if you want.
I'll carry on with the others.
You'll be ok?
Let's carry on.
The baby area...
It's all ready to welcome the baby.
You also have oxygen here.
Close by, just in case.
- Are you ok, Yann?
- Fine.
Feeling better?
Feeling better?
Yes, thank you.
I skipped breakfast.
My sugar was low.
Really, it's true.
- Isn't your partner here?
- She had to leave.
Pregnancy makes life tough.
Know what she said about C-sections?
No, not really.
When's it due?
In a month or so.
Three weeks for us.
Are you ready?
I don't know. And you?
I don't know either.
I worry I won't love it.
Or maybe love it too much.
Do you ever think that?
Yes.
All the time.
Didn't you want to carry it?
What about you?
Did I look stupid earlier?
Yeah, kind of.
It did me good to see you like that.
That's good then.
- What's your name?
- Cline.
What?
We need a name
so it could've worked, but...
Cline...
It's nothing personal.
Hello? Hi, I'll let you in.
10th floor.
Who is it?
Your mother.
You told me to get involved.
Seriously?
- Are you moving soon?
- I don't think so.
You'll all sleep in one room?
We've bought a sofa bed.
Keep the windows closed.
The 10th floor is madness.
Kids jump.
They chase pigeons...
- She won't jump out.
- It's a girl?
That's good.
Let me do it.
- Nice T-shirt.
- You like it?
I need new clothes.
I never know how to dress.
Staying after the concert?
I leave the next day.
For Asia.
A 3-month tour with Beethoven.
Isn't Beethoven dead?
When will you come to see us?
When I get back, I guess.
I need to sort it out.
We're going to need you.
You want me to babysit?
No, to adopt my daughter,
I need a letter from you.
At her birth.
I need to adopt her, see.
I need people close to me
to write a few lines
that talk about us.
- You agree with that?
- It's the law.
Ok...
What do I write?
A few lines about my daily bond
with our child.
You know,
I'd have hated my mother
writing about us.
I have no choice.
Write it, I'll sign it.
It's for the court, we can't forge it.
Keep it basic.
I know how strong words can be.
People's opinions are unbearable.
You make things up.
Want to feel her moving?
- May I?
- Yes.
She's stopped now.
I think you calm her.
Cline kicked so hard in my tummy.
Mendelssohn can be annoying.
- Remember?
- No.
We're thinking of Sibylle as a name.
- That's nice.
- Sibylle Steyer.
Sibylle Steyer?
Initials SS.
Shit. Fucking hell.
Daughter of Nazi lesbians...
It's a lot.
We have nothing else.
You've time to pick another name.
- Only a month.
- Already?
A month from now, I'll be...
in Japan.
The Japanese are attentive.
- When will you come then?
- To?
To meet my granddaughter
or to write the letter?
Assholes!
For fuck's sake!
Cline, it's the last time.
I can't bend over, sorry.
Yeah, we know you're pregnant.
- Sorry?
- It's all we ever talk about.
You're ok.
I do all the work and I'm obese.
You should've let me do it then.
Are you serious?
I forced you?
Did I force you?
You know I had no choice.
Your time had come.
Hey, I'm not 40 yet
and you're not 20 anymore.
It was possible.
You just didn't say.
That's easy to say now.
No, I've always said it.
Are you happy to have a baby?
I'll give birth soon.
Gonna dump me with our daughter?
Another dumped pregnant wife?
Bullshit, I'm saying the opposite.
You weren't ready to be pregnant.
You were scared and didn't want to be.
Good job I made a move.
Otherwise, we wouldn't be expecting.
Ok now? Can we move on?
- Cline, can you watch Erika for me?
- No, I can't.
I have a big meeting.
My babysitter cancelled.
Be good, ok. Gotta go.
I said I can't.
It's a chance to get some practice.
Thanks so much.
Franois!
He's gone.
Come on.
Hurry.
Do as you're told and behave.
Is your mum a boy?
No, my mum's over there.
What's she doing?
Listening to the sound of the piano.
Why's she doing that?
To see how the audience hears the music.
But...
people all hear differently.
That's true.
She seems sad.
Shit... Well played.
Hey!
- Happy birthday.
- Thanks.
- How's it going?
- I'm good.
- Great to see you.
- Yeah, it's been ages.
- Seen the others?
- Yeah.
Who's the pregnant chick?
She's sexy.
She's mine.
She's gay?
You too then?
Whose baby is it?
Well, ours.
Sorry, but you need a guy for that.
No, actually.
- You're being a drag, man.
- I'm not judging.
I'm no homophobe.
But the baby has a father.
I'm the dad, ok?
I'll see you later maybe?
I find you cute.
It's nice to see pretty lesbians.
No need to be touchy.
Surely we can talk about it.
People have opinions.
Are you ok?
Forget it, he's an asshole.
Yes, I know.
I know.
- Want to go?
- Yes.
I'll get our things.
Sorry. I'm really sorry.
Run!
Run!
Thank you.
Are you ok?
Evening.
Why do they give me flowers?
I'm sick of this circus.
- Won't you sit down?
- No.
- Yes?
- Mrs Orgen? On stage in 5.
Ok. I can't play.
I can't.
My heart's racing.
I'm totally sluggish.
I have a headache too.
It's ages since I saw you on stage.
I'd prefer Schumann for you.
I love Beethoven, but Schumann...
Nadia loves Beethoven.
No, she said she hates the piano.
Here.
I wrote what you asked for.
What?
What you wanted for the adoption.
She hasn't been born yet.
I know.
I'll be away for months.
I can't change that.
What can I do, apart from play?
But a fake testimonial
is meaningless and has no value.
Just antedate it.
I can easily imagine you
with your daughter.
Ladies and gentlemen,
we'd like to remind you
that the use of cameras is forbidden
during the performance.
I love my daughter more than anything.
I've always thought
that if a fire trapped her somewhere,
I'd throw myself into the flames
to save her.
I sometimes wish that fantasy
came true.
Cline would have seen our bond,
the bond that I cannot express
or show.
I gave up nothing for her.
Nor did I seek to treat
the paralysing melancholy
that wiped me out after a tour.
The joy of seeing my daughter again
was real.
As real as the loneliness I felt.
I enjoyed experiencing it.
I didn't want to go without it.
When Cline said Nadia was pregnant,
I felt she was punishing me,
breaking the bond
to highlight my failure
and to assert her lack of love.
I was wrong.
Cline doesn't resemble me.
Since the baby's birth,
her look of admiration
for this little girl
relates the long story
that she's going to write with her.
Perhaps being a mother
begins by being present.
Cline is there.
She places her family
at the heart of her joy.
What more can I say in these lines?
We can't know what parents we'll be
before experiencing it over time.
Will Cline do better or worse
than if she'd been pregnant?
Than Nadia, who gave birth?
Than me?
Cline takes on the role of mother
and plays at becoming one.
She is working on her character,
the way all women do.
I read these words one day:
"One must carry chaos within oneself
to bring into the world
a dancing star."
I know this little girl will dance.
Are you ok?
The taxi's coming.
Fucking hell...
Contractions every 6 minutes.
You'll have 3 on the way.
- Will you be ok?
- I'm on it.
Yell if need be.
He'll kick me out.
Guys freak if you dirty their car.
It'll be ok.
We'll take the monitor off to free you.
- Are you ok?
- I'm fine.
It's quite an experience.
She's fine.
It might bleed a bit,
but that's ok.
Let's weigh her now.
Hello, you.
2.7 kilos.
That's not so bad.
We expected less.
Not a big baby, but it's great.
Let's put your hat on.
- Still ok, Nadia?
- Fine.
- It doesn't hurt?
- No.
The epidural is still working.
It's not easy.
But it's a good start.
She's a champion.
Everything's perfect.
Hi there, Mathilde.
Let's go to Mum.
- Is she ok?
- Yes, she's fine.
- She's wriggling.
- That's your reward.
Cline can go skin-to-skin
while we sort you.
Is that ok?
Take off your T-shirt
so she can lie on your skin.
There, we'll put this here.
Hold her.
Can I have some water, please?
This will be cold, Nadia.
I'll get rid of all this.
Let's get you comfortable.
You did a really great job.
You did it.
I've done a few stitches.
Tomorrow, I'll explain what to do.
Make the most of this.
- Ok, Cline?
- Yes.
- Thanks.
- Lovely.
See you tomorrow.
I'm putting the armband on.
Mathilde's sleeping now,
but she may wake if she's hungry.
Call us then.
Alright?
I don't believe it.
You did it.
You're both beautiful.
Hi there, Mathilde.
Hi, my baby.
It's fantastic.
- What's she doing?
- I don't know.