Rumba Therapy (2022) Movie Script
Have a good day, Mr Quentin.
Right...
Shut up, asshole!
You suck your ice.
Sun on the beach.
I don't give
a fig.
You're talking to me?
Are you talking to me?
- Bye, Tony.
- Bye, Jos.
See you later.
Bye.
Bye, buddy.
See you later.
See you later, kids.
- Your laces, Zo.
- Never mind.
Bye, Tony.
Your satchel, Sidonie.
Careful.
Kevin...
I'm closing the door.
If you don't want to go to school,
sign on the dole.
You'll save time that way.
But there's no playtime on the dole.
And Monday means fries.
I don't like fries.
Kevin...
I missed you earlier. I overslept.
Management gave me an earful.
Good, as my head's pretty empty.
What a beauty.
A broken-down beauty.
- Good weekend?
- I was bored shitless.
The sports channel
showed only figure skating.
Figure skating is beautiful.
I prefer a good war movie,
it's less effeminate.
Vronique!
C'mon, some couples are cute.
You can't say that.
They aren't real couples.
They don't sleep together.
The guys aren't virile.
The woman's a best friend or a sister,
but they're not a couple.
It's beautiful and artistic.
Yeah...
Artistic.
I watched a Johnny Halliday tribute.
I cried my eyes out.
But I prefer Dany Brillant to Johnny.
It's not the songs, it's the teeth.
Dany Brillant has nice teeth
and clean hair.
And he's handsome.
My libido's shot.
I get hard, but that's all.
Like a horse refusing a jump.
What do you think?
Normal at your age
but none of my business.
The horse comparison sucks.
Playing ping-pong?
Yeah.
Mr Quentin...
Mr Quentin...
Mr Quentin!
I'm Dr Mory.
No need to worry.
I operated. You'll be fine.
We've put stents
in your coronary artery.
What?
Stents. Tiny metal springs
that widen the artery a bit.
I made a hole and worked up.
It's just plumbing.
What is this shit?
Mr Quentin, you had a heart attack
in the toilet at work.
Luckily, you were sitting,
so you didn't fall far.
You must have used too much force
and the body snapped.
You were on the bowl...
It's ok, I understand.
Who found me?
Your colleague, Gilles.
He took care of you.
He dressed you,
tried mouth-to-mouth...
You owe your friend a lot.
Not my friend, my colleague.
We couldn't find anyone to notify.
There isn't anyone.
No friends, family or children?
No friends, no family.
No one to report to.
I don't want anyone crying
over my grave.
Your grave...
You'll need someone to order it.
Am I going to die?
Yes, of course.
You know,
dying is something anyone can do.
Living is what's hard.
I advise people to have someone
to accompany them at the end.
Sometimes in life,
we all need others.
Alone, we're nothing.
I'll see the next one now.
By the way, do you smoke?
Yes.
A little.
See you soon then.
Yes?
- Carmen?
- No.
Sorry, sir, I'm here to see
Carmen Rodriguez Llorca.
Come on in.
Yes?
I'm looking
for Carmen Rodriguez Llorca.
Carmen!
Someone to see you, honey!
Follow me.
The door...
Darling...
Come in.
Twenty years.
Twenty years, yeah.
A lot, isn't it?
How did you find me?
The phone book.
The phone book?
Of course.
It took you twenty years.
Had to take a run-up, did you?
Your mum said you went back to Spain.
You believed her?
A little.
All it took to vanish
was 12 km between us.
Keep it if you want.
I thought you might like to...
See us young?
Afraid I wouldn't recognize you?
So you're going to die?
No...
They didn't say die exactly...
They said I had to be careful.
They put
springs in my arteries so if ever...
Does he have to stay?
This is about us, my health.
It's private.
Honey, could you?
Sure. I'll sort my briefs.
Briefs, briefs...
Basically,
I'm on a sort of farewell tour.
A farewell tour?
To say goodbye
if ever anything happens.
If you need anything...
Tomato juice, cocoa, cake...
Just let me know.
Do I have cake?
I see you've built a new life.
Built a new life?
I adore that expression!
I've built a new life.
My life was never demolished.
Philippe is kind, stable,
enthusiastic...
How about your dream of America?
It's stayed a dream.
For now.
You haven't changed, Tony.
Same aftershave, same moustache...
Not aftershave, cologne.
As for the moustache...
My father had one, my grandfather too,
so I have one.
My grandmother had one,
but I don't.
You haven't changed either.
Why did you come here?
No reason.
To see you.
Sorry.
To see where you live.
And who with.
Your mum must be relieved.
Relieved...
Did you park just outside?
No, I left my car a bit further away.
Tony!
You didn't come just for me.
Your daughter
has a dance class in Paris.
On Rue St Mdard.
Does she know me?
She knows you exist somewhere.
But babies forget everything.
It's better that way.
No need to tell her I came.
No, there's no need.
Excuse me.
I'm Maxime.
What's the gentleman after?
- I'm looking for Maria.
- Maria?
Maria Quentin.
No Maria Quentin here.
Maria Rodriguez?
How am I supposed to guess
if a guy asks for Maria Quentin?
Second floor, Nureyev room.
Thank you.
The guy says Maria Quentin...
How can I guess?
Yes?
No, nothing.
Country is at Montparnasse.
The Vegas Forever class is perfect.
No, I...
I'm not here to dance.
I'm not into that.
I'd like a word.
I see. All the same.
You're all shy at first,
then dance on your desk
to show you're still sprightly.
We'll talk after.
You can watch the class.
It may inspire you.
Appetite comes with eating.
One more time!
Not at all...
Let's go.
And... Samba!
Alright,
over to us, cowboy.
Alright...
See you Thursday.
I don't know how to say this...
How to go about this, but...
It's me.
It's you?
I'm...
Dad.
That's lovely. Bravo.
Congratulations.
A boy or a girl?
No...
I'm Dad.
Sarah?
Your keys.
I'll use my room tomorrow.
- Ok, see you, Maria.
- Bye.
Is that Maria Rodriguez?
Yes, that's her.
So, you're a dad?
No, I'm not a dad.
I'm not ready. Sorry.
She only takes good dancers
in her class.
She auditions once a month.
Careful, John Wayne,
rumba is like riding.
No improvising.
You were just going to turn up?
"I'm your dad. I left twenty years ago.
I forgot to come home."
Think she'll accept you?
She doesn't know who you are.
She may not want you as a father.
Sign up for her class.
But say nothing.
Let her get to know you.
Tame her, slowly...
And, when she's ready,
tell her who you are.
The doctor said to take up sport.
Dancing?
Dancing is a sport now, Gilles?
I mean...
Do I have a face to rumba?
You dance with your feet.
You have great shoulders. Use them.
Rumba is a Cuban style of music...
Congolese rumba
Yes?
So you'd like me
to teach you the rumba?
Boys!
Yes, well...
I presume you must have some idea.
It's in your blood.
"Your blood"? You mean black people?
No, not just blacks...
West Indians too.
Thank you, boys.
I already ate.
Afraid of poison?
No. It looks delicious too.
So, enjoy.
Not waiting for cutlery?
Kassa!
So, my friend...
That's not too familiar?
Your ancestors whipped mine.
You want to find your daughter?
Yeah.
And you need me?
- Yes.
- Listen...
I'll teach you
if you drive me to school.
What class are you in?
I teach history.
What history?
Ours. French history.
At St Charles.
Right, I see.
Fine.
Thank you, Kassa.
You're welcome, Mr Quentin.
Your children?
You're very observant, Tony.
It is Tony?
Yes, Tony, that's right.
And you? F. Massamba.
F for Fatou, I presume?
F for Fanny.
Fanny in Pagnol's trilogy.
Csar, Marius, Fanny.
"Oh, Csar, play that boule!"
"You break my heart!"
"I'm a child of Provence."
If I may be so bold,
aren't you afraid you may shatter
the balance your daughter has?
No.
I just want to see her for now.
Be careful.
Right.
The Congolese rumba is...
It's...
You know, there's an old African proverb
that says...
"If you don't know where you're going,
start by going back
to where you came from."
You can't dance?
But a ride saves me time
in the morning.
Right.
My first steps in Congolese rumba
This is ridiculous.
Do you want to learn or not?
I can't do it.
It's no use, it's...
We need somewhere bigger anyhow.
Careful or they'll take the keys.
Don't worry, it's nothing wild.
Come on, Fanny.
Three, four...
May I say something?
What?
Without music, it looks stupid.
You're all over the place. Too elastic.
Stiff, but elastic.
Dance leads,
following its course like a river.
You're overflowing.
You know dancing now?
I did ballet as a kid, like everyone.
No, not everyone did ballet as a kid.
Girls, but not everyone.
First I heard.
That's a good one!
In 1851, Napoleon III... Two...
banned work on Sundays and holidays.
Two...
On March 26, 1852...
Remember, 1852....
Anas, note that!
Looking good!
He allowed mutual aid societies
to freely incorporate...
Agricultural production increased
and...
the railway network developed.
One "p" in developed.
One, two, to the side.
Got that?
That's good.
What dance is it?
The Congolese rumba.
Where did you learn?
In the Congo.
Ok.
And other dances? Congo waltz?
Congo salsa? Congo tango?
We do everything here, not just rumba.
No...
The normal waltz.
German.
Your name?
Kevin.
Kevin Jones.
Like the singer?
Kevin Jones isn't a singer.
And you, ma'am?
Lara Croft.
Are you a couple?
No. We're neighbours.
Nice work.
See you next week.
Next, please.
Goodbye, sir.
Hello.
You can start.
OUT OF ORDER
Shit...
Does my daughter look like me?
Frankly?
To me, you all look alike!
Good night. Thank you.
Forgotten something?
Here.
See you tomorrow,
Kevin.
See you tomorrow, Lara.
The ass on her!
- Thanks, Manolo.
- My pleasure, babe.
Let's get into position.
The tango isn't a Latin dance.
It's not a dance, but a cry.
The synchronization of two partners.
Kevin?
Kevin!
The new guy.
Can you come here, please?
Come on.
Closer.
I hate being watched.
This is no place to hide.
Take me in your arms.
One hand here.
The other on my hips.
In the hollow of my back.
Go on, hold me.
Tight.
Close your eyes.
Imagine dancing across the room.
Our feet brush the ground
to the same rhythm.
We're short of breath.
We move across the room.
Forward, side...
Forward, side...
Without moving.
Can you imagine us?
Yes.
Open your eyes now.
What did you see?
I don't know... Us, advancing
across the room, forward, side...
I know what you saw.
A guy in boots falling on a dance floor.
You can't dance in boots!
So wear socks
or stay out in the hallway.
Let's start the class.
She thinks I'm an idiot.
You realize?
She's a kid. They all lap it up.
"The tango is a cry."
My daughter thinks I'm an idiot!
Not your daughter yet.
All done?
Yes.
She's your dance teacher.
Excuse me.
Sorry, I was at the dermatologist's.
A nasty boil.
Here, for you.
These will knock them out.
My Granddad's.
The same as Fred Astaire's.
I hope they fit.
Great, Louis XIV is back.
The son's sweatpants,
Granddad's shoes...
I just want my daughter,
not a part in Flashdance.
Big smile, please.
Stop!
Try it without music.
Stop.
Kevin alone.
Go on.
What are those?
Tap shoes.
Socks.
Show her your best side,
what a great guy you are.
From the top!
She has to want you as a buddy.
Take an interest in her.
He's right. Dance is her passion.
If you show her you like it,
you share something.
Big smiles.
Buy her flowers.
Or chocolates.
Youngsters love sugar.
They love sugar.
Make her dream.
Be generous and attentive.
Generous and attentive.
Yes, exactly.
Everything you aren't.
Cross arms.
Side. Cross.
And turn.
Ok, that's good.
Take a breather.
Hello.
Madam...
I'm Annick.
My husband died in a car crash
three years ago.
I'm rebuilding my life.
Alone.
For now.
Handsome.
Maxime!
If I can't mend the hair-dryers now,
don't complain of ear infections.
Kevin...
My name's Kevin.
I ride a motor scooter.
A biker!
Very edgy. I love it.
See you next week.
Miss?
Yes?
I wore them to break them in.
I understand.
Thank you for letting me sign up.
I thought of flowers,
but candy is good too.
It's sweet.
I like to give presents, see.
You'll find me generous and attentive,
but that's how I am.
A guy can't change.
I got more suitable shoes,
even if they're not...
I listen to what I'm told.
There...
That's me.
I can be very generous and attentive.
I hate disappointing people.
I'm better than that.
I'm rambling on, but you?
- Me?
- Yes, you.
What do you love apart from dancing?
Him.
My future husband, Diego.
Diego. Delighted.
Sorry, I forgot my poncho!
See you.
And call me Maria.
You're old enough to be my dad.
So loosen up, ok?
You go for youngsters?
- No. Why?
- Who's the candy for?
- Want it?
- No, thanks.
Sugar makes me swell up.
Gotta go, I have Pilates.
That's good.
Very good. I like it.
It's looking good.
Do you exercise?
- I do dancing.
- Dancing?
Ballroom dancing.
Yes, dancing is good too.
Get your heart working.
You have the heart of a young man.
But a sick young man.
Otherwise, do you have a partner?
Do you have sex regularly?
Sex is a great heart stimulant,
within reasonable limits.
Yes... Well, no.
No.
Come in.
I have Mr Pierre's test results.
What unit is he in now?
He isn't. He died last night.
But his results are excellent.
Yes, very good indeed.
Pity, it was good news.
Put them in his file.
His wife will be glad to have them.
Do you practice onanism?
What?
Onanism. Masturbation
Do you masturbate?
Do you masturbate?
No.
Sometimes.
That's good.
Believe me, sex,
alone or accompanied,
is as good as a run.
It's quicker too.
Mr Quentin, take care of yourself.
And, above all, exercise.
Don't hesitate.
Stimulate your heart.
Change partners.
I hope you enjoyed today's class.
Be proud of yourselves.
I don't mean the contest,
but a few galas now and then
would keep me in shape.
Maria...
May I have a word?
Of course. What is it?
I'm listening.
- It can wait.
- See you next week.
They offer me commercials,
but I won't sell my body.
I know, Bernard.
Goodbye.
Is this a bad time?
Come in, he's doing business.
I'll get dressed.
No, that's Philippe's chair.
That's the dog's.
That one's ok.
I'm listening.
I can't do it, Carmen.
She's so far away from me.
She's far away.
She's far away.
She isn't far away.
She's where you left her.
Why did your mum lie to me?
- Why did you hide?
- Hide!
Tony, we weren't hard to find.
You just took longer than planned.
And...
Did she ever ask about me?
Yes, often.
But I didn't have the answers.
Not the right ones anyhow.
You dumped us, Tony.
So deal with that and don't think
it's easy to come back. Shit!
I mean, shit!
Here.
Beautiful!
- They're...
- Flowers.
- Good evening, Kevin.
- Hi.
You weren't at the class?
- I missed my train.
- Your train?
Where do you come from?
Far away.
Waiting for me?
Seen my electric bike?
I'm talking.
Ok then...
Sorry, I'm meeting an ex,
an Air Madagascar steward.
But try another evening.
Excuse me.
Goodbye.
Maria!
Kevin.
Where were you?
Let me offer you a drink.
I wanna talk.
Now?
When you like.
Want to do dinner?
Dinner?
Yes.
Saturday, 9 PM, after my rehearsal.
Pachamama, in the 11th.
Yeah. Can we talk there?
Sure, no worries.
All right. I'll find it.
See you.
Sorry, I'm late.
Ordered a drink? I'm thirsty.
I was waiting for you.
Like the place?
Yes, it's nice.
I argued with my dad.
Well, my stepfather.
My real dad dumped us
when I was a baby.
He left my mum to become a monk.
Or so my mum says.
A monk?
Yes.
In a robe and sandals?
Yes, a monk.
Right...
I need a drink too.
Waiter, please.
Yes, sir.
- Fruit juice?
- A mojito.
One of what she said
and an ordinary kir, please.
Very good, sir.
Classy tie.
I chose to dress up.
You sure of that?
I'm hungry.
The avocado mash is a bit hot.
The guacamole?
Maybe.
So...
- You never studied?
- No.
I always wanted to dance.
My goal is the world championship
in six months.
To make Mum proud.
I'm giving it all I've got,
training like crazy.
But it's on hold for now.
My partner, Greg, is in the hospital.
Do you have a dream in life?
America.
But it never happened.
No children?
Not yet.
No kids at your age?
I have my dad's forehead.
You think so? I mean...
Really?
No idea. I've never seen him.
So, Kevin...
You wanted to talk?
My hand bothers you?
Yes.
I like you.
No...
That's not possible.
It is possible.
Sorry, you attract me.
The moustache troubles me.
It hides the man.
Stop it, please, Maria.
I can't help it.
I like old bachelors with moustaches.
I'm not an old bachelor.
The same again, please.
I'm not an old bachelor, ok?
You all piss me off about my moustache.
I love my moustache, my moustache is me!
Calm down. Make the most of it.
Everyone's thinking you're my guy.
Sir?
Yes, ok, it's a bottle...
They're thinking, "He's older.
Either he's rich
- or a great lay!"
- Stop!
Stop it, please.
You said you could be my daughter.
I didn't say that.
I said you're old enough
to be my dad.
I'm not attractive?
I'm not beautiful?
I'm not your type?
It happens.
Even if you'd be wrong to be picky.
You are beautiful.
Maria!
You're singing tonight, baby.
Tonight, she's singing.
I don't speak Spanish.
I speak English.
This is on me, but it's strong stuff.
See you later.
Your guy's in shape!
Try a younger one.
He's not my guy.
He's my father.
Did I doze off?
We're here.
The parking lot you wanted.
Can't I take you home?
Kevin...
No, this is ok.
I'm not far now.
You'll think it over?
What?
The two of us.
I couldn't say I live in Pontoise.
She'd ask questions.
A 60-km drive!
She won't be asking any questions now.
Weren't you going to confess?
She hit on me.
She's into moustaches.
Shit...
She's a kid, so it's tricky.
And she's my daughter.
That too.
As for me, I made love all night.
That's good.
Your wife was pleased?
She wasn't there.
I was alone, in a dream.
I was on the A86
and a 38-ton truck passed me.
A huge one. Beautiful, red...
Driven by a hunk.
English-looking.
Ginger, with long sideburns.
His wife was next to him.
A real cutie
with nice, pert titties.
A bit underinflated but cute.
She waved to me, telling me to join her.
You did it with his wife?
I'm not sure.
Gilles, why do you do all this for me?
Because I'm fond of you.
I spent 20 years without her.
I don't need her.
Maybe she needs you.
The doctors told us
Carmen couldn't have kids.
So, obviously,
when she got pregnant,
we'd given up hope.
We'd already fallen out of love.
So...
I stayed all the same.
For a while.
And then...
We weren't married, we were young.
So...
You left.
Yeah...
Like a coward.
You know,
the man who cries
doesn't collect his tears.
- Is that African?
- Yes.
It's time.
You have to tell her who you are.
Hi, Kevin.
Maria's already in her room.
My name isn't Kevin, it's Tony.
Like my father.
Like your father.
And now?
Well, I'm here.
We make up for lost time.
We'll do loads of things.
We'll have projects.
I don't know...
I'll be a real father.
Without a moustache?
Yeah.
So what do you do for a living?
I teach English
at St Charles in Pontoise.
St Charles!
Sorry, it's Diego.
Great, you teach at St Charles
Yeah.
You know Harry Potter.
I don't know.
I don't know all the teachers yet.
Diego again. Sorry.
It's ok.
Not asking why I came back?
Actually, I wonder why you left.
I suppose you hate me.
It must be odd, me coming back
Sorry.
Know what we'll do?
No.
I'll fetch you tomorrow.
What you didn't do for me,
I'll do for you.
That's not possible.
We're on strike tomorrow.
The day after?
No, I'm on a training course.
- Thursday?
- My day off.
And Friday is Shabbat?
Friday. Friday's good.
Sure?
That's perfect.
You smoke?
No...
Sometimes, when I feel good.
It's Mr Text Message.
Yes.
See you on Friday?
Yes, see you on Friday.
Ok?
Who's the old guy?
My father.
And I'm your mother?
Didn't he have a moustache?
Yes, he's my father.
Your father... The one who left?
And who's come back.
He wants projects.
The guy just turns up like that?
He's nothing like you.
Above all, he lies to me.
He doesn't look like a teacher.
You'd forgive him for leaving?
If I end up with his daughter, yeah.
I forgive him.
Give him a chance.
Bye, Tony.
See you later.
Bye, Tony, have a good day.
Kevin...
Got a second?
Actually...
Are you snatching satchels
or here to drive me?
What?
Sorry, it's cos of the moustache.
I'm meeting my daughter.
Here at the school?
Yes.
It was more convenient here.
I confessed.
We'll try to get acquainted.
I'm proud of you.
Am I late?
No, I was waiting for you.
I had essays to correct.
Hello, Lara.
Hello.
You're neighbours and colleagues.
And colleagues.
Want a ride?
I have my car. Let's go for a walk.
If you want. I'll just park.
Ok, I'm going.
Why the disguise?
I said I was a teacher,
to impress her.
That's impressive?
Yeah. Would a mechanic make her dream?
Speak with your heart.
Only honesty pays.
Yeah...
You should put it on your back.
That's why it has straps.
You're right. It's handier.
Know why ducks go like this?
No.
Cos they have elongated pupils.
They do that to stabilize their vision.
Or they can't see.
Yeah...
It's dumb, I can't get mad at you.
Pity, it'd bring us closer.
Great for the planet.
It's hard being perfect.
How old are your students?
My students?
Shit!
Fuck...
Shit, shit and shit!
Here!
I'm sinking.
My boots...
48 hours as my father
and already lying.
To make you proud.
I...
just drive a kids' bus.
And I like that.
Know what a school bus driver is?
A guy who sees life in his mirror.
The first loves...
The first joys and disappointments...
Tired eyes on Mondays,
joy on Fridays.
A little boy crying for his grandma
or his satchel.
I take children
to what they often hate the most
while trying not to upset them.
I know them all.
And me...
I'm the guy seen from behind.
Mr Nape. I'm Mr Nape.
There.
Not the ideal father.
I wonder what the link is
between you and Mum.
Right...
I wonder why she chose me.
Your grandmother didn't.
She'd have preferred the doctor's son
to the gardener's.
You were a musician too.
I just strummed it.
Show me.
Partner me in Blackpool.
Meaning?
Replace Greg and dance with me.
That's a project.
Hold on, dancing isn't a project.
I mean, I can't dance.
You can learn.
Move your feet like your hands.
You wanted to see me grow.
Here's your chance.
How do the kids get home
if you're not here Friday afternoons?
Ask Gilles to replace me.
His eyesight is going.
I can't pay an extra driver.
So how do I rehearse?
It's a top international contest.
I owe my daughter this.
Can't she play rugby?
There's a ground next door.
Dancing...
Sorry...
I'm not against gays.
I love classical music, but frankly...
No more moustache,
sashaying in rumba classes...
Careful.
Don't flip, Tony.
Right, ok.
I'll give you two hours off.
You do mornings.
I'll put Martial on evenings.
Thanks, Josy.
Don't flip, Tony.
Did I do that?
Partly me too.
Believe and you can do it.
That'll do for today.
I'm glad we have a project together.
Don't keep Diego waiting.
Get some sleep
and try on your suit.
Yeah.
And stop smoking.
Energy will make up for technique.
Yeah.
That's good!
It's good!
I'm making up for lost time.
I feel good.
So good.
No.
Know what?
Let's drink a toast
to the man who saved me.
My turn now.
And...
Fanny...
Thank you, to you too.
I'll play or he'll make me cry.
I'm down to one a day.
It'll work if I exercise my heart.
If you exercise it.
Careful, I'm not an easy catch.
Actually,
I'm more a fragile little thing.
Seducing me is a fight.
So you'll have to fight.
Win me over...
Pierce my mystery...
Rule me, bastard!
Slap my butt!
To fate
that may unite us one day.
Better than Versailles!
Cheers.
Tony...
Tony?
You're crushing me.
It's tiresome.
Very tiresome.
If I may ask, was the effort intense?
Not excessive?
No.
Not at all.
Did you simply fall asleep on the lady?
No, I don't think so.
So...
You felt a sudden pain in your chest?
Yes, that's what worries me.
During an unusual effort.
You need rest, sir.
Yeah.
Exercise your heart,
but do it gently.
And no more cigarettes.
I'm resigning, Josy.
Resigning? What is this?
You know I'm sick.
I can't drive kids safely.
You're sick...
Take some paracetamol.
You can't just resign.
Life isn't all you want.
30 years here and never groped.
But I stayed because I love my job.
Stay and don't piss us off.
I'm resigning.
My daughter needs me.
I won't let her down.
I liked you better dumb
with a moustache.
Who's he?
I heard you collapsed again.
You can't compete sick.
I'm not sick, I got treatment.
A few dance steps won't exhaust me.
I'm careful, I cycle, I'm fine.
But Annick and I tried something
even he couldn't manage.
Please, Maria.
Give me a chance.
Promise to quit smoking
and we'll compete together.
There.
The last one.
On the two of us.
You'll dance then.
It has to become part of you.
Like when you walk.
You don't know
which foot leads the other.
Watch where you put your body,
to the left or right.
Dance is like a reflex.
Each step is a reflex.
Forget others.
Your hands.
Like singing and no one can hear.
So you sing louder
to be louder than the music.
Your shoulders.
The core.
Dancing is like breathing.
It's a vital need.
Your movements are ephemeral.
You have to make them eternal.
In your arms, I'm no longer Maria.
I'm you and you're me.
We form one, as two.
That's the hard part.
Good!
The only competition
is with yourself, no one else.
Above all,
never think about that.
No, try it again.
If you think, you fall.
Just breathe.
Dance as a reflex.
Without thinking.
Just you.
And me.
That's good.
Keep your eyes on me, ok?
Yeah.
Dress and put this on.
It's our number.
Great, 92 is my lucky number.
Really?
No.
Be right back.
No, I'm not a magician.
Anyone there?
Tony?
Tony?
Tony?
Dad?
Look, the brush goes here.
Shit, this is tough.
Yes, it's called work, Jrme.
Brush down here too.
There.
I'll fuck this carburettor!
That's a fine plan.
But brush it first
or your mum won't be pleased.
I wanna marry your daughter.
And I'd like your permission.
I don't know.
Yes...
You love her?
Yes.
- Every day?
- Yes.
Isn't she a bit young to marry?
No.
Well?
Yes. But my opinion...
- Come to the wedding.
- I can't.
You'll come. You have to come.
She hates me.
But she'll hate you even more
if you don't come.
Here's the invitation.
Pink wasn't my choice.
Don't abandon her again.
Good-looking kid.
Somewhere in Andalusia...
Wait, Tony.
Before you become a respectable father,
I have to tell you...
I'm not Congolese.
Nobody's perfect.
I think I have Congolese blood.
Are you ok?
Don't get any ideas.
I just don't want to fall.
Diego!
To love!
No more moustache!
RUMBA THERAPY
Right...
Shut up, asshole!
You suck your ice.
Sun on the beach.
I don't give
a fig.
You're talking to me?
Are you talking to me?
- Bye, Tony.
- Bye, Jos.
See you later.
Bye.
Bye, buddy.
See you later.
See you later, kids.
- Your laces, Zo.
- Never mind.
Bye, Tony.
Your satchel, Sidonie.
Careful.
Kevin...
I'm closing the door.
If you don't want to go to school,
sign on the dole.
You'll save time that way.
But there's no playtime on the dole.
And Monday means fries.
I don't like fries.
Kevin...
I missed you earlier. I overslept.
Management gave me an earful.
Good, as my head's pretty empty.
What a beauty.
A broken-down beauty.
- Good weekend?
- I was bored shitless.
The sports channel
showed only figure skating.
Figure skating is beautiful.
I prefer a good war movie,
it's less effeminate.
Vronique!
C'mon, some couples are cute.
You can't say that.
They aren't real couples.
They don't sleep together.
The guys aren't virile.
The woman's a best friend or a sister,
but they're not a couple.
It's beautiful and artistic.
Yeah...
Artistic.
I watched a Johnny Halliday tribute.
I cried my eyes out.
But I prefer Dany Brillant to Johnny.
It's not the songs, it's the teeth.
Dany Brillant has nice teeth
and clean hair.
And he's handsome.
My libido's shot.
I get hard, but that's all.
Like a horse refusing a jump.
What do you think?
Normal at your age
but none of my business.
The horse comparison sucks.
Playing ping-pong?
Yeah.
Mr Quentin...
Mr Quentin...
Mr Quentin!
I'm Dr Mory.
No need to worry.
I operated. You'll be fine.
We've put stents
in your coronary artery.
What?
Stents. Tiny metal springs
that widen the artery a bit.
I made a hole and worked up.
It's just plumbing.
What is this shit?
Mr Quentin, you had a heart attack
in the toilet at work.
Luckily, you were sitting,
so you didn't fall far.
You must have used too much force
and the body snapped.
You were on the bowl...
It's ok, I understand.
Who found me?
Your colleague, Gilles.
He took care of you.
He dressed you,
tried mouth-to-mouth...
You owe your friend a lot.
Not my friend, my colleague.
We couldn't find anyone to notify.
There isn't anyone.
No friends, family or children?
No friends, no family.
No one to report to.
I don't want anyone crying
over my grave.
Your grave...
You'll need someone to order it.
Am I going to die?
Yes, of course.
You know,
dying is something anyone can do.
Living is what's hard.
I advise people to have someone
to accompany them at the end.
Sometimes in life,
we all need others.
Alone, we're nothing.
I'll see the next one now.
By the way, do you smoke?
Yes.
A little.
See you soon then.
Yes?
- Carmen?
- No.
Sorry, sir, I'm here to see
Carmen Rodriguez Llorca.
Come on in.
Yes?
I'm looking
for Carmen Rodriguez Llorca.
Carmen!
Someone to see you, honey!
Follow me.
The door...
Darling...
Come in.
Twenty years.
Twenty years, yeah.
A lot, isn't it?
How did you find me?
The phone book.
The phone book?
Of course.
It took you twenty years.
Had to take a run-up, did you?
Your mum said you went back to Spain.
You believed her?
A little.
All it took to vanish
was 12 km between us.
Keep it if you want.
I thought you might like to...
See us young?
Afraid I wouldn't recognize you?
So you're going to die?
No...
They didn't say die exactly...
They said I had to be careful.
They put
springs in my arteries so if ever...
Does he have to stay?
This is about us, my health.
It's private.
Honey, could you?
Sure. I'll sort my briefs.
Briefs, briefs...
Basically,
I'm on a sort of farewell tour.
A farewell tour?
To say goodbye
if ever anything happens.
If you need anything...
Tomato juice, cocoa, cake...
Just let me know.
Do I have cake?
I see you've built a new life.
Built a new life?
I adore that expression!
I've built a new life.
My life was never demolished.
Philippe is kind, stable,
enthusiastic...
How about your dream of America?
It's stayed a dream.
For now.
You haven't changed, Tony.
Same aftershave, same moustache...
Not aftershave, cologne.
As for the moustache...
My father had one, my grandfather too,
so I have one.
My grandmother had one,
but I don't.
You haven't changed either.
Why did you come here?
No reason.
To see you.
Sorry.
To see where you live.
And who with.
Your mum must be relieved.
Relieved...
Did you park just outside?
No, I left my car a bit further away.
Tony!
You didn't come just for me.
Your daughter
has a dance class in Paris.
On Rue St Mdard.
Does she know me?
She knows you exist somewhere.
But babies forget everything.
It's better that way.
No need to tell her I came.
No, there's no need.
Excuse me.
I'm Maxime.
What's the gentleman after?
- I'm looking for Maria.
- Maria?
Maria Quentin.
No Maria Quentin here.
Maria Rodriguez?
How am I supposed to guess
if a guy asks for Maria Quentin?
Second floor, Nureyev room.
Thank you.
The guy says Maria Quentin...
How can I guess?
Yes?
No, nothing.
Country is at Montparnasse.
The Vegas Forever class is perfect.
No, I...
I'm not here to dance.
I'm not into that.
I'd like a word.
I see. All the same.
You're all shy at first,
then dance on your desk
to show you're still sprightly.
We'll talk after.
You can watch the class.
It may inspire you.
Appetite comes with eating.
One more time!
Not at all...
Let's go.
And... Samba!
Alright,
over to us, cowboy.
Alright...
See you Thursday.
I don't know how to say this...
How to go about this, but...
It's me.
It's you?
I'm...
Dad.
That's lovely. Bravo.
Congratulations.
A boy or a girl?
No...
I'm Dad.
Sarah?
Your keys.
I'll use my room tomorrow.
- Ok, see you, Maria.
- Bye.
Is that Maria Rodriguez?
Yes, that's her.
So, you're a dad?
No, I'm not a dad.
I'm not ready. Sorry.
She only takes good dancers
in her class.
She auditions once a month.
Careful, John Wayne,
rumba is like riding.
No improvising.
You were just going to turn up?
"I'm your dad. I left twenty years ago.
I forgot to come home."
Think she'll accept you?
She doesn't know who you are.
She may not want you as a father.
Sign up for her class.
But say nothing.
Let her get to know you.
Tame her, slowly...
And, when she's ready,
tell her who you are.
The doctor said to take up sport.
Dancing?
Dancing is a sport now, Gilles?
I mean...
Do I have a face to rumba?
You dance with your feet.
You have great shoulders. Use them.
Rumba is a Cuban style of music...
Congolese rumba
Yes?
So you'd like me
to teach you the rumba?
Boys!
Yes, well...
I presume you must have some idea.
It's in your blood.
"Your blood"? You mean black people?
No, not just blacks...
West Indians too.
Thank you, boys.
I already ate.
Afraid of poison?
No. It looks delicious too.
So, enjoy.
Not waiting for cutlery?
Kassa!
So, my friend...
That's not too familiar?
Your ancestors whipped mine.
You want to find your daughter?
Yeah.
And you need me?
- Yes.
- Listen...
I'll teach you
if you drive me to school.
What class are you in?
I teach history.
What history?
Ours. French history.
At St Charles.
Right, I see.
Fine.
Thank you, Kassa.
You're welcome, Mr Quentin.
Your children?
You're very observant, Tony.
It is Tony?
Yes, Tony, that's right.
And you? F. Massamba.
F for Fatou, I presume?
F for Fanny.
Fanny in Pagnol's trilogy.
Csar, Marius, Fanny.
"Oh, Csar, play that boule!"
"You break my heart!"
"I'm a child of Provence."
If I may be so bold,
aren't you afraid you may shatter
the balance your daughter has?
No.
I just want to see her for now.
Be careful.
Right.
The Congolese rumba is...
It's...
You know, there's an old African proverb
that says...
"If you don't know where you're going,
start by going back
to where you came from."
You can't dance?
But a ride saves me time
in the morning.
Right.
My first steps in Congolese rumba
This is ridiculous.
Do you want to learn or not?
I can't do it.
It's no use, it's...
We need somewhere bigger anyhow.
Careful or they'll take the keys.
Don't worry, it's nothing wild.
Come on, Fanny.
Three, four...
May I say something?
What?
Without music, it looks stupid.
You're all over the place. Too elastic.
Stiff, but elastic.
Dance leads,
following its course like a river.
You're overflowing.
You know dancing now?
I did ballet as a kid, like everyone.
No, not everyone did ballet as a kid.
Girls, but not everyone.
First I heard.
That's a good one!
In 1851, Napoleon III... Two...
banned work on Sundays and holidays.
Two...
On March 26, 1852...
Remember, 1852....
Anas, note that!
Looking good!
He allowed mutual aid societies
to freely incorporate...
Agricultural production increased
and...
the railway network developed.
One "p" in developed.
One, two, to the side.
Got that?
That's good.
What dance is it?
The Congolese rumba.
Where did you learn?
In the Congo.
Ok.
And other dances? Congo waltz?
Congo salsa? Congo tango?
We do everything here, not just rumba.
No...
The normal waltz.
German.
Your name?
Kevin.
Kevin Jones.
Like the singer?
Kevin Jones isn't a singer.
And you, ma'am?
Lara Croft.
Are you a couple?
No. We're neighbours.
Nice work.
See you next week.
Next, please.
Goodbye, sir.
Hello.
You can start.
OUT OF ORDER
Shit...
Does my daughter look like me?
Frankly?
To me, you all look alike!
Good night. Thank you.
Forgotten something?
Here.
See you tomorrow,
Kevin.
See you tomorrow, Lara.
The ass on her!
- Thanks, Manolo.
- My pleasure, babe.
Let's get into position.
The tango isn't a Latin dance.
It's not a dance, but a cry.
The synchronization of two partners.
Kevin?
Kevin!
The new guy.
Can you come here, please?
Come on.
Closer.
I hate being watched.
This is no place to hide.
Take me in your arms.
One hand here.
The other on my hips.
In the hollow of my back.
Go on, hold me.
Tight.
Close your eyes.
Imagine dancing across the room.
Our feet brush the ground
to the same rhythm.
We're short of breath.
We move across the room.
Forward, side...
Forward, side...
Without moving.
Can you imagine us?
Yes.
Open your eyes now.
What did you see?
I don't know... Us, advancing
across the room, forward, side...
I know what you saw.
A guy in boots falling on a dance floor.
You can't dance in boots!
So wear socks
or stay out in the hallway.
Let's start the class.
She thinks I'm an idiot.
You realize?
She's a kid. They all lap it up.
"The tango is a cry."
My daughter thinks I'm an idiot!
Not your daughter yet.
All done?
Yes.
She's your dance teacher.
Excuse me.
Sorry, I was at the dermatologist's.
A nasty boil.
Here, for you.
These will knock them out.
My Granddad's.
The same as Fred Astaire's.
I hope they fit.
Great, Louis XIV is back.
The son's sweatpants,
Granddad's shoes...
I just want my daughter,
not a part in Flashdance.
Big smile, please.
Stop!
Try it without music.
Stop.
Kevin alone.
Go on.
What are those?
Tap shoes.
Socks.
Show her your best side,
what a great guy you are.
From the top!
She has to want you as a buddy.
Take an interest in her.
He's right. Dance is her passion.
If you show her you like it,
you share something.
Big smiles.
Buy her flowers.
Or chocolates.
Youngsters love sugar.
They love sugar.
Make her dream.
Be generous and attentive.
Generous and attentive.
Yes, exactly.
Everything you aren't.
Cross arms.
Side. Cross.
And turn.
Ok, that's good.
Take a breather.
Hello.
Madam...
I'm Annick.
My husband died in a car crash
three years ago.
I'm rebuilding my life.
Alone.
For now.
Handsome.
Maxime!
If I can't mend the hair-dryers now,
don't complain of ear infections.
Kevin...
My name's Kevin.
I ride a motor scooter.
A biker!
Very edgy. I love it.
See you next week.
Miss?
Yes?
I wore them to break them in.
I understand.
Thank you for letting me sign up.
I thought of flowers,
but candy is good too.
It's sweet.
I like to give presents, see.
You'll find me generous and attentive,
but that's how I am.
A guy can't change.
I got more suitable shoes,
even if they're not...
I listen to what I'm told.
There...
That's me.
I can be very generous and attentive.
I hate disappointing people.
I'm better than that.
I'm rambling on, but you?
- Me?
- Yes, you.
What do you love apart from dancing?
Him.
My future husband, Diego.
Diego. Delighted.
Sorry, I forgot my poncho!
See you.
And call me Maria.
You're old enough to be my dad.
So loosen up, ok?
You go for youngsters?
- No. Why?
- Who's the candy for?
- Want it?
- No, thanks.
Sugar makes me swell up.
Gotta go, I have Pilates.
That's good.
Very good. I like it.
It's looking good.
Do you exercise?
- I do dancing.
- Dancing?
Ballroom dancing.
Yes, dancing is good too.
Get your heart working.
You have the heart of a young man.
But a sick young man.
Otherwise, do you have a partner?
Do you have sex regularly?
Sex is a great heart stimulant,
within reasonable limits.
Yes... Well, no.
No.
Come in.
I have Mr Pierre's test results.
What unit is he in now?
He isn't. He died last night.
But his results are excellent.
Yes, very good indeed.
Pity, it was good news.
Put them in his file.
His wife will be glad to have them.
Do you practice onanism?
What?
Onanism. Masturbation
Do you masturbate?
Do you masturbate?
No.
Sometimes.
That's good.
Believe me, sex,
alone or accompanied,
is as good as a run.
It's quicker too.
Mr Quentin, take care of yourself.
And, above all, exercise.
Don't hesitate.
Stimulate your heart.
Change partners.
I hope you enjoyed today's class.
Be proud of yourselves.
I don't mean the contest,
but a few galas now and then
would keep me in shape.
Maria...
May I have a word?
Of course. What is it?
I'm listening.
- It can wait.
- See you next week.
They offer me commercials,
but I won't sell my body.
I know, Bernard.
Goodbye.
Is this a bad time?
Come in, he's doing business.
I'll get dressed.
No, that's Philippe's chair.
That's the dog's.
That one's ok.
I'm listening.
I can't do it, Carmen.
She's so far away from me.
She's far away.
She's far away.
She isn't far away.
She's where you left her.
Why did your mum lie to me?
- Why did you hide?
- Hide!
Tony, we weren't hard to find.
You just took longer than planned.
And...
Did she ever ask about me?
Yes, often.
But I didn't have the answers.
Not the right ones anyhow.
You dumped us, Tony.
So deal with that and don't think
it's easy to come back. Shit!
I mean, shit!
Here.
Beautiful!
- They're...
- Flowers.
- Good evening, Kevin.
- Hi.
You weren't at the class?
- I missed my train.
- Your train?
Where do you come from?
Far away.
Waiting for me?
Seen my electric bike?
I'm talking.
Ok then...
Sorry, I'm meeting an ex,
an Air Madagascar steward.
But try another evening.
Excuse me.
Goodbye.
Maria!
Kevin.
Where were you?
Let me offer you a drink.
I wanna talk.
Now?
When you like.
Want to do dinner?
Dinner?
Yes.
Saturday, 9 PM, after my rehearsal.
Pachamama, in the 11th.
Yeah. Can we talk there?
Sure, no worries.
All right. I'll find it.
See you.
Sorry, I'm late.
Ordered a drink? I'm thirsty.
I was waiting for you.
Like the place?
Yes, it's nice.
I argued with my dad.
Well, my stepfather.
My real dad dumped us
when I was a baby.
He left my mum to become a monk.
Or so my mum says.
A monk?
Yes.
In a robe and sandals?
Yes, a monk.
Right...
I need a drink too.
Waiter, please.
Yes, sir.
- Fruit juice?
- A mojito.
One of what she said
and an ordinary kir, please.
Very good, sir.
Classy tie.
I chose to dress up.
You sure of that?
I'm hungry.
The avocado mash is a bit hot.
The guacamole?
Maybe.
So...
- You never studied?
- No.
I always wanted to dance.
My goal is the world championship
in six months.
To make Mum proud.
I'm giving it all I've got,
training like crazy.
But it's on hold for now.
My partner, Greg, is in the hospital.
Do you have a dream in life?
America.
But it never happened.
No children?
Not yet.
No kids at your age?
I have my dad's forehead.
You think so? I mean...
Really?
No idea. I've never seen him.
So, Kevin...
You wanted to talk?
My hand bothers you?
Yes.
I like you.
No...
That's not possible.
It is possible.
Sorry, you attract me.
The moustache troubles me.
It hides the man.
Stop it, please, Maria.
I can't help it.
I like old bachelors with moustaches.
I'm not an old bachelor.
The same again, please.
I'm not an old bachelor, ok?
You all piss me off about my moustache.
I love my moustache, my moustache is me!
Calm down. Make the most of it.
Everyone's thinking you're my guy.
Sir?
Yes, ok, it's a bottle...
They're thinking, "He's older.
Either he's rich
- or a great lay!"
- Stop!
Stop it, please.
You said you could be my daughter.
I didn't say that.
I said you're old enough
to be my dad.
I'm not attractive?
I'm not beautiful?
I'm not your type?
It happens.
Even if you'd be wrong to be picky.
You are beautiful.
Maria!
You're singing tonight, baby.
Tonight, she's singing.
I don't speak Spanish.
I speak English.
This is on me, but it's strong stuff.
See you later.
Your guy's in shape!
Try a younger one.
He's not my guy.
He's my father.
Did I doze off?
We're here.
The parking lot you wanted.
Can't I take you home?
Kevin...
No, this is ok.
I'm not far now.
You'll think it over?
What?
The two of us.
I couldn't say I live in Pontoise.
She'd ask questions.
A 60-km drive!
She won't be asking any questions now.
Weren't you going to confess?
She hit on me.
She's into moustaches.
Shit...
She's a kid, so it's tricky.
And she's my daughter.
That too.
As for me, I made love all night.
That's good.
Your wife was pleased?
She wasn't there.
I was alone, in a dream.
I was on the A86
and a 38-ton truck passed me.
A huge one. Beautiful, red...
Driven by a hunk.
English-looking.
Ginger, with long sideburns.
His wife was next to him.
A real cutie
with nice, pert titties.
A bit underinflated but cute.
She waved to me, telling me to join her.
You did it with his wife?
I'm not sure.
Gilles, why do you do all this for me?
Because I'm fond of you.
I spent 20 years without her.
I don't need her.
Maybe she needs you.
The doctors told us
Carmen couldn't have kids.
So, obviously,
when she got pregnant,
we'd given up hope.
We'd already fallen out of love.
So...
I stayed all the same.
For a while.
And then...
We weren't married, we were young.
So...
You left.
Yeah...
Like a coward.
You know,
the man who cries
doesn't collect his tears.
- Is that African?
- Yes.
It's time.
You have to tell her who you are.
Hi, Kevin.
Maria's already in her room.
My name isn't Kevin, it's Tony.
Like my father.
Like your father.
And now?
Well, I'm here.
We make up for lost time.
We'll do loads of things.
We'll have projects.
I don't know...
I'll be a real father.
Without a moustache?
Yeah.
So what do you do for a living?
I teach English
at St Charles in Pontoise.
St Charles!
Sorry, it's Diego.
Great, you teach at St Charles
Yeah.
You know Harry Potter.
I don't know.
I don't know all the teachers yet.
Diego again. Sorry.
It's ok.
Not asking why I came back?
Actually, I wonder why you left.
I suppose you hate me.
It must be odd, me coming back
Sorry.
Know what we'll do?
No.
I'll fetch you tomorrow.
What you didn't do for me,
I'll do for you.
That's not possible.
We're on strike tomorrow.
The day after?
No, I'm on a training course.
- Thursday?
- My day off.
And Friday is Shabbat?
Friday. Friday's good.
Sure?
That's perfect.
You smoke?
No...
Sometimes, when I feel good.
It's Mr Text Message.
Yes.
See you on Friday?
Yes, see you on Friday.
Ok?
Who's the old guy?
My father.
And I'm your mother?
Didn't he have a moustache?
Yes, he's my father.
Your father... The one who left?
And who's come back.
He wants projects.
The guy just turns up like that?
He's nothing like you.
Above all, he lies to me.
He doesn't look like a teacher.
You'd forgive him for leaving?
If I end up with his daughter, yeah.
I forgive him.
Give him a chance.
Bye, Tony.
See you later.
Bye, Tony, have a good day.
Kevin...
Got a second?
Actually...
Are you snatching satchels
or here to drive me?
What?
Sorry, it's cos of the moustache.
I'm meeting my daughter.
Here at the school?
Yes.
It was more convenient here.
I confessed.
We'll try to get acquainted.
I'm proud of you.
Am I late?
No, I was waiting for you.
I had essays to correct.
Hello, Lara.
Hello.
You're neighbours and colleagues.
And colleagues.
Want a ride?
I have my car. Let's go for a walk.
If you want. I'll just park.
Ok, I'm going.
Why the disguise?
I said I was a teacher,
to impress her.
That's impressive?
Yeah. Would a mechanic make her dream?
Speak with your heart.
Only honesty pays.
Yeah...
You should put it on your back.
That's why it has straps.
You're right. It's handier.
Know why ducks go like this?
No.
Cos they have elongated pupils.
They do that to stabilize their vision.
Or they can't see.
Yeah...
It's dumb, I can't get mad at you.
Pity, it'd bring us closer.
Great for the planet.
It's hard being perfect.
How old are your students?
My students?
Shit!
Fuck...
Shit, shit and shit!
Here!
I'm sinking.
My boots...
48 hours as my father
and already lying.
To make you proud.
I...
just drive a kids' bus.
And I like that.
Know what a school bus driver is?
A guy who sees life in his mirror.
The first loves...
The first joys and disappointments...
Tired eyes on Mondays,
joy on Fridays.
A little boy crying for his grandma
or his satchel.
I take children
to what they often hate the most
while trying not to upset them.
I know them all.
And me...
I'm the guy seen from behind.
Mr Nape. I'm Mr Nape.
There.
Not the ideal father.
I wonder what the link is
between you and Mum.
Right...
I wonder why she chose me.
Your grandmother didn't.
She'd have preferred the doctor's son
to the gardener's.
You were a musician too.
I just strummed it.
Show me.
Partner me in Blackpool.
Meaning?
Replace Greg and dance with me.
That's a project.
Hold on, dancing isn't a project.
I mean, I can't dance.
You can learn.
Move your feet like your hands.
You wanted to see me grow.
Here's your chance.
How do the kids get home
if you're not here Friday afternoons?
Ask Gilles to replace me.
His eyesight is going.
I can't pay an extra driver.
So how do I rehearse?
It's a top international contest.
I owe my daughter this.
Can't she play rugby?
There's a ground next door.
Dancing...
Sorry...
I'm not against gays.
I love classical music, but frankly...
No more moustache,
sashaying in rumba classes...
Careful.
Don't flip, Tony.
Right, ok.
I'll give you two hours off.
You do mornings.
I'll put Martial on evenings.
Thanks, Josy.
Don't flip, Tony.
Did I do that?
Partly me too.
Believe and you can do it.
That'll do for today.
I'm glad we have a project together.
Don't keep Diego waiting.
Get some sleep
and try on your suit.
Yeah.
And stop smoking.
Energy will make up for technique.
Yeah.
That's good!
It's good!
I'm making up for lost time.
I feel good.
So good.
No.
Know what?
Let's drink a toast
to the man who saved me.
My turn now.
And...
Fanny...
Thank you, to you too.
I'll play or he'll make me cry.
I'm down to one a day.
It'll work if I exercise my heart.
If you exercise it.
Careful, I'm not an easy catch.
Actually,
I'm more a fragile little thing.
Seducing me is a fight.
So you'll have to fight.
Win me over...
Pierce my mystery...
Rule me, bastard!
Slap my butt!
To fate
that may unite us one day.
Better than Versailles!
Cheers.
Tony...
Tony?
You're crushing me.
It's tiresome.
Very tiresome.
If I may ask, was the effort intense?
Not excessive?
No.
Not at all.
Did you simply fall asleep on the lady?
No, I don't think so.
So...
You felt a sudden pain in your chest?
Yes, that's what worries me.
During an unusual effort.
You need rest, sir.
Yeah.
Exercise your heart,
but do it gently.
And no more cigarettes.
I'm resigning, Josy.
Resigning? What is this?
You know I'm sick.
I can't drive kids safely.
You're sick...
Take some paracetamol.
You can't just resign.
Life isn't all you want.
30 years here and never groped.
But I stayed because I love my job.
Stay and don't piss us off.
I'm resigning.
My daughter needs me.
I won't let her down.
I liked you better dumb
with a moustache.
Who's he?
I heard you collapsed again.
You can't compete sick.
I'm not sick, I got treatment.
A few dance steps won't exhaust me.
I'm careful, I cycle, I'm fine.
But Annick and I tried something
even he couldn't manage.
Please, Maria.
Give me a chance.
Promise to quit smoking
and we'll compete together.
There.
The last one.
On the two of us.
You'll dance then.
It has to become part of you.
Like when you walk.
You don't know
which foot leads the other.
Watch where you put your body,
to the left or right.
Dance is like a reflex.
Each step is a reflex.
Forget others.
Your hands.
Like singing and no one can hear.
So you sing louder
to be louder than the music.
Your shoulders.
The core.
Dancing is like breathing.
It's a vital need.
Your movements are ephemeral.
You have to make them eternal.
In your arms, I'm no longer Maria.
I'm you and you're me.
We form one, as two.
That's the hard part.
Good!
The only competition
is with yourself, no one else.
Above all,
never think about that.
No, try it again.
If you think, you fall.
Just breathe.
Dance as a reflex.
Without thinking.
Just you.
And me.
That's good.
Keep your eyes on me, ok?
Yeah.
Dress and put this on.
It's our number.
Great, 92 is my lucky number.
Really?
No.
Be right back.
No, I'm not a magician.
Anyone there?
Tony?
Tony?
Tony?
Dad?
Look, the brush goes here.
Shit, this is tough.
Yes, it's called work, Jrme.
Brush down here too.
There.
I'll fuck this carburettor!
That's a fine plan.
But brush it first
or your mum won't be pleased.
I wanna marry your daughter.
And I'd like your permission.
I don't know.
Yes...
You love her?
Yes.
- Every day?
- Yes.
Isn't she a bit young to marry?
No.
Well?
Yes. But my opinion...
- Come to the wedding.
- I can't.
You'll come. You have to come.
She hates me.
But she'll hate you even more
if you don't come.
Here's the invitation.
Pink wasn't my choice.
Don't abandon her again.
Good-looking kid.
Somewhere in Andalusia...
Wait, Tony.
Before you become a respectable father,
I have to tell you...
I'm not Congolese.
Nobody's perfect.
I think I have Congolese blood.
Are you ok?
Don't get any ideas.
I just don't want to fall.
Diego!
To love!
No more moustache!
RUMBA THERAPY