Spices and Lies (2025) Movie Script
1
SPICES AND LIES
We've never done it here.
With the courgettes and carrots?
Could be handy.
We'll get busted.
We're doing no harm.
We love each other, that's all.
I have something on the stove.
Can we get some water, please?
I'll bring you some.
Now then, the terrine...
and the aubergine.
I'll bring you bread.
Excuse me!
Can you take table 5 some water?
I'll be back for the desserts.
Now then,
for Sylvie, a lobster bisque
I just made.
- You dear.
- Lovely.
You're no fish fan, Christophe,
but try my sea bream tartar.
I prefer meat, but fish suits me too.
There's meat too.
Lentils with sauted duck hearts.
Wonderful!
Have you seen how La's managing?
We were worried about her.
But it's amazing,
she's totally in her element.
How's the restaurant sale going?
Fine, we're on it.
Christophe and I would like to help you
if we can.
Financially, that is.
That's really kind of you.
But I think we can manage.
Think it over.
Sure, I'll think it over.
Enjoy and we'll talk again.
You're Mehdi's sister?
I'm La. Delighted.
A colleague?
Faza, how's it going?
- I wasn't expecting you.
- I called you.
We're rushed off our feet,
I was busy.
It's good to see you.
Have you two met?
No.
Faza, my little sister...
La, my girlfriend.
Gosh, I'm so sorry.
So you work here too.
- So it's you?
- Yes, it's me.
It's her.
I was so eager to meet you.
Your sisters too.
He hides us. He's ashamed.
- Yeah, sure.
- Your sister exists?
You bet.
Bernard.
There are others.
We'll talk later, after the rush.
She just popped in to say hi
passing through Lyon.
No, stay.
We can get acquainted.
My parents are here.
I'll introduce you.
You can eat with us.
You're meeting a friend.
I'll go later.
Let me try your cooking.
Come on.
Ok, great, let's do that.
Fuck!
Sorry, Mehdi.
I didn't see you there.
Sorry.
In Lyon on holiday?
- You don't live here?
- No, I study law in Montpellier.
Law?
I'm here for my nephew's circumcision
at my mum's.
Ok.
Isn't she in Algeria?
No. Why?
She's back here for a few days.
That's Mum.
You do the circumcision at hers?
How do you mean?
You do it at home?
Of course.
We lie my nephew on the table,
then we sing, film and dance...
It's fun.
It sounds it, but it must be...
Traumatic?
It's a celebration.
Our table's seen lots of willies.
I can show you Mehdi's circumcision.
She's joking.
I fell for it!
Were you serious, saying I "popped in"?
You talk like that now?
What is it you want?
Don't get mad.
What've you done?
C'mon, out with it!
Actually...
I'm pregnant.
What?
How the hell am I gonna tell Mum?
You're joking.
You're pregnant?
Who's the father?
Some old guy I dumped.
It was good but...
An old guy knocked you up?
Yes. It wasn't planned, ok?
We were out of condoms
and he was too hot to be careful...
Spare me your sex stories!
- But you...
- You're nuts, I'm not a girlfriend!
It's no joke!
You're the one who asked.
What'll you do?
Keep it.
Keep it?
For fuck's sake...
Faza, let's try to talk seriously here.
I'll tell Mum after the circumcision,
calmly.
Calmly?
Mum'll blow a fuse.
Don't you realise?
Calm down.
When else should I tell her?
When I give birth?
I need your support on this.
Please.
You never leave me in peace.
Fuck...
What did you tell your chick
about Mum?
I just said she was in Algeria.
She wanted to meet her.
Why?
Why, Faza?
Because...
I said the circumcision was
at Mum's.
I knew it! I knew it...
- Selvan, can you see to this?
- No worries.
Here you go, chef.
Thanks.
Ok?
Know what my sis told me?
They're circumcising my nephew
at my mum's on Sunday.
She's back from Algeria for it
and I didn't know.
She just told me.
They're too much.
- What?
- You think I'm fucking stupid?
I'll come Sunday.
That's impossible.
The family will be there,
Mum's friends...
I'll meet them all that way.
La, I already told you...
My mum's complicated.
She knows about us?
Why are you so keen on meeting her?
Is it some sort of enquiry?
- You're with me, not my family.
- I'm always with them.
You think I don't notice?
The problems with your mum.
She's in Algeria, then she's sick...
Your family's always there.
Your family and your lies.
Isn't this serious?
Of course it's serious.
Maybe you don't love me.
Of course I love you.
Don't say that.
So why do you hide me?
Stop by and see us.
I'd like to meet the baby.
Great. Give them my love.
What's up, chef?
Long time, no see.
Can I get a beer, Souhila?
- How's the Algerian?
- Good. And you?
Where's my man?
It's our evening tonight,
so keep a low profile.
No worries, he's coming.
I'm warning you, ok?
Sousou...
- We need more glasses.
- Coming.
Cheers.
Good health.
If I redo Sunday couscous,
can you help?
I do bistro dishes, not couscous.
"I do bistro dishes, not couscous."
Are you crazy or what?
An Algerian chef
who can't make couscous!
Unbelievable!
Know what? Come on Sunday.
It's so good, it'll blow your mind.
- Yeah?
- Yeah.
And bring Ibrahim.
Thought about my offer?
Bro, it's tough.
I need new wheels,
I can't lend you dough now.
You won't be my partner?
It'll be huge.
I do cars, not restaurants.
- So?
- And you and La fought.
That's temporary, ok?
This project is rock solid.
You said your mum was in Algeria
when she's here.
Count me out.
My mum will be going back.
I just anticipated her move.
You're doing my head in.
It's true, that's nothing.
What's going on?
You came for me or for him?
I'm here for you, omri.
He speaks Arabic now.
The Arabic of love.
Exactly, I'm fluent
in literary Arabic, bro.
I taught him.
Sleep at your mum's!
La...
Open up, please.
Big rush at lunchtime.
We're wiped out.
I'm going to my parents'
for my days off.
Why?
I need to.
I'm taking the wrong path.
What do you mean?
The restaurant, everything...
We're not ready.
It's too soon, too fragile.
It's not fragile.
It's solid.
So prove it.
Tell your mother.
I'll do it.
I swear I will.
My darling son's here.
Go on, give everyone a kiss.
- How are you?
- Fine, and you?
Great, thanks.
Hi, kids!
You're a real man now.
He's the same age as Kamel.
The exact same age.
And good-looking too.
Thank you.
Ok, handsome?
Don't say anything yet.
I need to talk to her first.
It's important. So don't say a word, ok?
Get plates for the aunties.
- Hi.
- Nice to meet you.
- Amel.
- Mehdi.
Don't recognise her?
Amel is your friend Brahim's sister.
Right...
She does politics now.
As a student.
Not bad. Is it going ok?
Yes, great.
Mehdi has his own restaurant.
We'll eat there one day.
Lovely.
Mehdi, stay and chat with her.
She came to meet him
and he walks off.
Go and talk together.
Give me that glass.
Go and tell her about your restaurant.
So?
Where do you want it?
What?
The wedding.
Do you prefer France or Algeria?
What wedding?
What do you mean?
We don't know each other.
Yes, we do.
We were at the same school.
And our mothers are friends.
That matters.
I don't even remember you.
- Trying to offend me?
- Not at all.
I remember your cute little face.
Your curly hair.
I've always dreamt of you.
For me, Prince Charming was you.
Are you serious?
No.
No, I'm kidding.
It's a joke.
- Are you crazy?
- What is this?
What's the plan?
Your mum keeps showing us
photos of you.
She loves her son.
What's up with Mathias?
- He agreed, right?
- He changed his mind.
Enzo was crying,
so he wants to stop.
Crying's no big deal.
We can't tell her.
Everyone's here.
But it's too late now!
Mum's right, it's what you get
with French guys.
Look after your butcher.
Don't start...
- Where is Mathias?
- I've no idea.
It'll be ok.
What's going on?
They didn't cut him.
Mum can't find out.
Keep quiet about your willy
or Granny will be sad.
We'll pretend you did it.
She'll realise my willy is normal.
No, cos we'll change your clothes
for the white jellaba
and put a dab of tomato
on your willy.
In case she checks.
Won't it sting?
Tomato sauce doesn't sting.
You'll really do that?
It's risky.
You'd rather tell her?
Go ahead.
Here's the champion!
Are you ok? Did it go well?
Granny has a big present for you.
I bet she has.
What's that?
Dad didn't want my willy cut,
so Uncle put tomato sauce on it.
Mehdi!
- Mum!
- Let me through.
Mum, are you ok? Are you with us?
Send them away.
Everyone leave now.
It'll work out, ok?
I'll talk to Mathias.
All you do is talk.
He thinks we're barbarians.
All over his son's foreskin!
What's he thinking?
We'll make a tagine with it
and eat it?
I've always sacrificed myself
for you all.
And this is the thanks I get.
You call that gratitude, Mehdi?
The house will be ready soon.
I'll go back to Algeria
and leave you all in peace.
Enough, Mum, stop talking nonsense.
Enough.
My heart is weak.
I won't last much longer.
I'll soon join your father.
Mum, please, enough now.
Come on, stop that.
Stop now, that'll do.
Come on, Mum.
It's alright, it's nothing.
It'll be alright, just trust me.
It's alright.
It's over.
It's all over.
And little Amel?
I saw how you were looking at her.
See how intelligent she is?
She's so beautiful.
My dream is to have a big wedding.
In Algeria,
in the new house, inch'Allah.
Here, taste this.
But I don't...
Come on.
Well?
Your sauce is incredible.
What's in it?
I won't give you my secrets.
You have to earn them.
- It's delicious.
- Calm down.
What's the problem with your mother?
How d'you know?
How?
Part of the job, habibi.
It's pretty simple...
Either I introduce my girl to my mum
and kill her,
or I don't, and my girl leaves me.
Why don't you introduce her?
- Is she ugly?
- No, she's really...
It's just that my mum
dreams of seeing me
with an Algerian girl.
To preserve our culture.
She's right. Look at you.
An Algerian cook
who can't do couscous.
The very basics.
Not my fault she didn't teach me.
You're a big boy now. You can learn.
Yeah...
Want to meet an Algerian girl?
I know one. A bombshell.
No, no need.
La's my girlfriend.
Algerian sisters are enough.
You're the only boy in the family?
And your father?
He's dead.
You support the whole family.
Poor you.
Know what?
You should see a shrink.
Honestly, you Algerians
get into the worst situations.
I'll be your mum.
What?
I'll play your mum for your girl.
It's easy, I've done it before.
You've played someone's mum?
You've no idea
of the stuff I've done, habibi.
It would fill a book.
For us, lying is survival.
We lie to hide,
to avoid hurting others,
and we even lie sometimes to live.
Your mother too, you know.
She'll have lied too.
Why would you do that for me?
Cos I love you like a son.
What?
I'm kidding.
For money, habibi.
How will we do it?
Tell me about your mum.
She sacrificed a lot for us.
Too much.
And I feel that,
for her,
France stole her husband from her.
She's scared
her children will be next.
Understand?
That's called exile.
Of course I understand.
You're ashamed of her.
No, not at all.
I'm not ashamed.
But...
I protect her, it's different.
I understand.
Actually,
your mum isn't a victim.
- Too much lipstick?
- It's great.
Your mother is a proud woman,
a woman of character.
My mum's very simple, don't worry.
In the shit, she holds her head up.
Like a woman from Oran.
Yes, that's it exactly.
That's it.
I can see her.
I can feel her.
All the Ra of Algeria
is rising up in me.
Give me a second...
But a calm form of Ra.
Not too much of a beat.
Calm.
You ok?
What's this get-up?
You blew a fuse?
I'm dressed like a woman from Oran.
This is silk,
this is a Herms scarf,
and I'm blonde like your mum.
I never said to do that.
Habibi...
Every great actress has her costume.
I'm giving you a high-class mother,
so you should be happy.
What did I tell you?
Something simple, right?
My mother doesn't wear a headscarf.
No more headscarf. Ok?
Stop lecturing me.
Ok? I thought of something
on the way here.
I thought I could do an accent,
a nice North African one...
No! My mother's French is excellent.
Stop messing around, ok!
- Lela!
- It's La!
Lela!
Sweetheart!
I'm so happy to meet you.
It was high time.
- Likewise.
- La... Mum.
We know that!
What has he said about me?
He said I was mean, did he?
I'm very happy to meet you anyhow.
Really I am.
You date a pretty girl like her
and don't introduce me?
- Ashamed of your mother?
- No.
Alright.
See how uptight he is?
He brings us to this rich folks' place...
I'll catch up.
What?
I told you not to tell her.
Where are you?
Which hospital?
As a boy, he loved the ducks.
One day, we found him in the water.
He was trying to catch one.
He was soaked.
People were staring. The shame of it!
Weren't you taking the keys
to your cousin who just got back?
Your cousin from Algeria.
We'll be late.
Let me enjoy my daughter-in-law.
When are you going to Algeria?
I'm going to stay a while.
I'm in no hurry.
Not in a hurry?
You have to finish the work
on the house.
Here, take her the keys.
Tell her I'll see her later.
I won't let her piss me off.
I'll stay and tell La
all about Algeria.
Ok?
Keep it decent.
How are you?
I hate hospitals.
Good job your sister brought my things.
Linda won't circumcise my grandson,
Soraya still wants a divorce
and now,
sweet little Faza
is pregnant?
What will you tell me?
Go on.
Tell me.
I'm ready, tell me.
- I've nothing to tell you.
- Go on.
Really, nothing at all.
I want you to rest, that's all.
I want to die.
Not one person pities me.
Amel... Come in.
It's kind of you to come, sweetie.
How are you, Auntie?
- How are you?
- I'm fine, and you?
Fine. Thanks for coming.
Hi there.
I hope it's not serious, Fatima?
It's serious. I had a funny turn.
My health is poor.
But seeing your daughter,
I feel better.
You're radiant.
Mum, what did the doctors say?
The doctor doesn't know.
But he's very worried.
I'll go and talk to him.
- Amel, go with him.
- It's ok.
Let her go with you.
She speaks nicely.
- My pleasure.
- Thank you.
Her problem is all of you.
You make her ill.
Talk to your sisters.
Hold on a second.
I don't understand.
My mother told you that?
- She has heart arrhythmia.
- Ok.
And you'll soon kill her.
You were born here
and act like the French.
We respect our parents.
Are you serious?
Being a doctor
doesn't let you talk like that.
Yeah, is it any of your business?
You're not my dad, you're a doctor.
Sorry...
Seriously?
- Is he serious?
- Weird...
Why did you tell her?
What else could I do?
Talk some sense into her.
You're not gonna keep it?
You're in uni.
Give me a break with that.
I hate law anyway, I'm quitting.
Yeah?
I support you, Faza.
Do as you want. We'll be here.
I don't agree.
But I support you too.
The feminist league, ok...
And I'm the big bad macho.
You talk like Mum does.
Join our side.
Sure, if you like.
We go to Mum's room
and stage a demo?
Got banners?
We demand rights?
You think I enjoy doing this?
I feel like saying, "Linda,
what about Enzo?"
"Soraya, talk to your husband."
"Faza, you're pregnant?
Awesome, the family's getting bigger.
I'll arrange a meal."
No, actually!
I don't enjoy it, it pisses me off.
Screw it!
Calm down, this is a hospital.
I'll never go back to Walid.
He's all escalope and merguez
in his butcher's shop.
I mean it.
Guys should be circumcised
when they're adults.
They'd remember the pain that way
and stop pissing us off
with their knobs.
Ok, great.
- Run and cry to Mummy!
- How old are you?
How about you?
Don't you want to have a bath?
It'd do you good.
I'm ok, thanks.
Whatever.
I have to go soon.
Your mum's incredible.
I've rarely met such a strong woman.
There are others, but...
It can't have been easy as kids.
What she said devastated me.
What did she tell you?
Is that why
you didn't want us to meet?
I don't understand.
What she did when you were young.
When did you find out
she frequented men for money?
What?
My love, don't be ashamed.
After your dad died, she had no choice.
She's a brave woman, that's all.
She told you that?
I wasn't to tell you.
But I want us to be open.
Why did you tell her that?
Are you crazy?
She wanted something powerful,
so I mixed your mum's past and mine.
Twice the suffering.
That sells.
What do I do with that?
Make the most of it.
I've put suspense in your life.
Right, I was lacking suspense
in my life.
A whisky, please.
Suspense...
What about her?
She's happy, isn't she?
She adores you.
Totally adores you.
You wanted that.
Yes, but...
I didn't want it like this...
Souhila, from now on, please,
do as I say, please.
Do as I say
and don't improvise crazy stuff.
Know what? Souhila is free.
Cough up.
- Listen.
- What?
La wants to invite you
to the restaurant to eat
on the day we're closed.
Fantastic!
I'll sample my son's cooking.
Yes, wonderful.
But it'll be the last time you see her.
Tell her you're going back to Algeria
and stick to that.
Just say we'll see each other again.
Honestly,
I've only just got to know her.
How can we have a real relationship?
You're taking me for a fool.
I don't want you to have
a real relationship.
Your mother... How is she?
She's ok.
Want a fake husband for your sister?
Plenty here.
Are you serious?
What?
What is this place?
A bar or an agency?
Algerian boy, come and dance!
No, I'm ok.
Stop doing deals with Sousou.
Come and dance instead.
Come on.
Don't act so shy, come on!
This one is for my son,
Mehdi the Algerian!
So, for the company's name,
you've chosen Babel.
Yes.
You're putting in 120,000 euros.
20,000 for the gentleman,
100,000 for the lady.
- Yes.
- That's right.
Because...
her parents are helping us.
Very good.
How do you wish to divide up the shares?
We'll do it 50/50.
Are you sure?
He's not contributing...
He contributes skills
beyond monetary value.
He's the cook.
He's the restaurant.
Exactly.
Very good.
It's your decision but, in that case,
we'll divide the shares 51/49.
In case of any dispute.
There won't be one.
I have to insist.
We'll toss a coin.
That's a first for me.
Here. Heads or tails?
No, I can't do it.
We're not going to toss a coin.
We won't do that.
We'll do 51 for you,
and 49 for me.
You sure?
You bet. That's good.
Once I pay back the difference,
we'll come back here and do 50/50.
With the lady.
Even if it's unusual.
No.
May I kiss my partner?
- After you sign the contract.
- A kiss first.
Stop it.
Here you go.
You're happy.
- He'll do a speech.
- Cool.
Cool, he says!
I'm really proud of you.
When do we see Cinderella?
Whenever you want.
I'll set it up
once the restaurant's ours.
With hookahs?
It's a real restaurant
with real food.
Not hookahs and panini.
The guy's getting big ideas!
He'll have us eating
pork medallions soon.
Yeah.
Whole roasted pigs...
Be seated, my lords!
Welcome to my domain.
Give us a break.
Do we get invited to the opening?
You're at the top of the list.
You have real balls, bro.
What?
Telling your mum about all that...
No need,
he got Souhila to play his mum.
Yeah?
Souhila, that dive's owner?
Yes, sir.
Not true!
Know who he's dating?
Tell them.
I love Yasmine. I'm gonna marry her.
He loves her.
He's lost for the cause!
I warned you.
Good evening.
His mum and sister?
Not like I imagined them.
I'm the boss for now.
You're his mum.
Welcome.
You're learning Arabic.
Here, meet Yasmine.
Delighted.
My niece, Mehdi's cousin.
She needs to get out a bit.
Maybe she'll want to stay in France
after this.
I'm not so sure.
Is Ibrahim hot for your cousin?
That guy's a total Casanova.
Pinot grigio. Who wants some?
Me.
I'll try it to make you happy.
I dream of drinking Italian wine.
You little jerk.
I'll have water.
Yeah.
Mehdi, a drop?
No, I'm good.
I'll prepare the next course.
No, hold on, you have to make a speech.
It's your mum's first visit
and she's leaving soon, unfortunately.
You're right, Bernard.
Making speeches is important.
You have to speak from the heart.
- A good speech makes me cry.
- Me too.
I'm not into speeches.
If you don't speak, I won't eat.
You've no choice.
Well then... Mum...
It's your first visit to this restaurant
where I've worked for a while now.
Thanks to Bernard.
He had faith in me.
I don't regret it.
He taught me a lot.
Everything.
I'd just like to tell you...
I'm very happy you're here.
It matters to me.
For me, cooking is...
above all a story, an emotion, and..
I'm glad you're here to discover it.
I don't think I realised but...
I want to make you proud.
Now you've decided
to move back to Algeria for good,
we'll miss you, Mum.
Sounds like he's burying me!
I haven't left yet.
And Algeria isn't far.
You can all come to see me.
As for you, I want a kiss.
They're so cute...
I want to speak too.
You want a kiss as well?
Go ahead, make your speech.
Alright then...
We don't see your family every day.
Can't wait to meet the others.
What I really want to say is...
that I'm proud of you.
I'm proud of what you've become.
I don't often get the chance
to tell you this,
but what you dream of
when you devote your life
to a restaurant, is to pass it on.
When you pass things on,
it gives your life meaning.
It shows you
it wasn't in vain.
In any case,
I'm passing on
my restaurant
to you two,
because you're not alone, Mehdi.
There's La, too.
And you sold us the restaurant.
Hey...
I need money for booze.
Cheers, everyone.
Enjoy!
I'll prepare the rest.
Let me taste that wine.
You can't leave me with water.
I need to get over my emotions.
- You two moved me.
- Really?
No, in our culture,
a mother never drinks
in front of her son.
So, I'll sip from your glass.
Sure...
My aunt loves the vino.
She loves it.
Your cod loin.
It looks delicious.
Applause for the excellent chef!
You don't have to...
Bravo!
It's delicious, man.
A few breadcrumbs,
and that's a sick fish finger.
Enjoy.
Can I have a word?
It melts in your mouth.
What are you playing at?
You stink of booze.
I'm doing as the French do.
My mum doesn't drink.
Stop this.
What do you know?
She's not a saint.
She can live a little.
So...
Is it tasty?
Delicious!
Did you teach him to cook?
Of course.
It all started with me.
Little, he was always in the kitchen.
So I gave him an apron.
I let him play
with the veg.
He made such a mess.
Funny, he told me
you wouldn't let him.
Nonsense!
I encouraged him.
He thinks he's self-taught.
Well?
Sulking in your kitchen?
You ok?
Liked the wine?
I'm a bit tipsy, but I feel fine.
I've something to tell you, though.
The meal was very good.
We ate well.
But where's Algeria?
When we cook,
if we don't think of our childhood,
our families,
what's the point?
You know why we like traditional dishes?
Because they bring back memories.
You're leaving?
I'm taking Fatima home.
What?
You've had a drink.
I have...
So I'll drive slowly.
Well, yeah...
He'll drive really slowly.
Let's go.
Good night.
The look on his face!
Sorry for this evening.
I was on edge.
I don't know...
My mum and Bernard...
Wow...
What's that about?
Do I know everything?
Yeah...
Why?
I don't know.
She doesn't match your description.
She told me she ran a bar too.
Yeah...
She doesn't do that anymore.
She's had 1,000 lives.
Each time,
I discover something new.
Me too, each time, I swear...
Sure you've nothing to tell me?
I'm not really her son.
What?
I'm kidding.
What did you say? I can't hear.
Still can't hear? I love you!
I'm not going back to Algeria anymore.
What do you mean?
I can't leave your pregnant sister.
Who'll look after her, help her?
She's still at university.
And the divorce...
We'll help.
You?
- You'll help her?
- Yes.
You're never around.
Your kitchen's your family.
You're exaggerating, Mum...
What's going on?
- You want me gone?
- Not at all.
It feels like you want me gone.
You're hiding something.
No, it's not that...
Mum, it's just...
You've dreamt of going back.
You'll be happier.
Sick with worry, more like.
I'd rather stay.
I don't care.
Your sister will have a fake wedding.
- There.
- What?
What do you mean?
Ask Ibrahim.
- Ibrahim?
- He'll agree.
He's black.
So what?
I like the boy, I trust him.
What will people say
when the baby's born?
No one will see the baby.
No...
What?
I won't do it.
- What do you mean?
- It's too much.
I hate trickery!
- Trickery?
- Yes.
Enough now.
You're asking too much.
Mehdi?
I swear, I'll take the pills,
and swallow them all!
This very second!
You don't know me.
You've all shamed and humiliated me.
I can't stand you.
I can't live with you anymore.
That's it, I want to die.
Fine, I'll ask him.
Teach me your cuisine.
Why did you never teach me
to cook Algerian food?
Why have you never invited me
to your restaurant?
- What the hell?
- I invited her.
I want her to meet my parents.
I knew you'd react like this,
but it's important to me.
For God's sake...
You know, when I was younger,
I was a pro belly dancer.
I danced in cabarets, bars...
- The Lido?
- Certainly not.
Dressed in only a G-string?
No, thank you!
I've done a lot in my life but not that!
I only showed my navel.
That said...
I wiggled my bum.
I couldn't dance like that.
It's easy, really.
It just takes practice.
Want a demo?
- What?
- Yes.
- Not here.
- What? Why not?
- Not right now.
- Let me be!
I'm showing her.
What's wrong with you?
Look.
You wear a scarf...
to accentuate your movements.
You tie it tight, so it doesn't fall.
Mum, people are looking.
The gentleman's happy.
Look at him, he's smiling.
He wants to see.
Look...
Here's an important move.
Figure of eight, forwards.
Figure of eight, backwards.
Forwards...
And above all...
This...
Like this.
All together now!
Arms up!
All the way!
Sensual!
Let's move!
Arms down now, slowly, making waves...
And the hips!
Keep it going! Here I come.
Come on, your tits!
More tits!
Come on, son!
Stop sulking!
- Hello, Sylvie.
- Hello, Mehdi.
- I'm delighted to meet you.
- Me too.
I'm sorry, I'm not dressed up.
I didn't think...
It's to celebrate the restaurant.
You don't knock?
Why are you here?
She insisted I come,
I wasn't going to say no.
My mum isn't going back.
I wanted to tell La the truth
this weekend.
I'm sick of pretending!
And you turn up.
What do I do now?
What do I do?
I can't tell her with you here.
Just like that.
Your mum changed her mind.
She's staying in France with her kids.
And you thought, once in the country,
at La's parents,
I'll tell her the truth.
Tell me,
are you stupid or insane?
What should I do?
Anything!
Anything but that!
I don't know...
Maybe...
Me...
I could carry on.
You're crazy.
You think I've got money to burn?
If it's the money,
we can work something out.
We're not working anything out.
We're stopping this.
You ok?
I'm fine...
So...
What do you want to do?
Make people like you less.
Make sure things go badly
with her parents.
If we manage that...
I can tell her.
So you want people to hate me?
Not to hate you...
I just want it...
to go badly.
Souhila, I'm sorry it's come to this...
Here she is.
- Thank you.
- You're welcome.
I've made veal blanquette.
La's favourite.
Is that ok?
Veal? Frankly...
You know, calves are separated
from their mothers at birth?
It's torture.
I'm not eating that.
I'm sorry.
We'll make you something else.
I'm sorry, Fatima.
It's ok.
But this is a celebration.
So, what shall we drink?
Fatima?
Whatever you feel like...
I like red wine.
I'll fetch some from the cellar.
- A cellar?
- Yes.
Will you show me?
Yes, of course.
Come with me.
I'll go and make her something.
I'll have to improvise...
Nothing fancy. Anything's fine.
What's up with her?
- It's a young wine.
- Yeah, it smells of wine.
I prefer champagne.
Champagne's also wine.
Wine from Champagne.
But this really is
a beautiful Gamay bouquet.
It's a Morgon, so...
we have aromas of...
cherry, a little bit of kirsch.
I smell raspberries.
Yes, those too.
For me...
It's more like biting
into a big, juicy cherry.
I want a taste, not a poem!
Go ahead, taste it.
- Well?
- It's wine.
Yes,
but it's a rather special wine
from a shale terrain.
So, it's denser.
Christophe...
You love wine.
- I can tell.
- It's my passion.
And your wife?
You love her?
When I hear you talk, I sense
you love your wine more than your wife.
Shame, Sylvie's beautiful.
Of course she is.
Talk to your wife
like you talk about wine.
Tell me...
How long have you had a mistress?
- Sorry?
- I can tell.
Admit it.
I know men's ways.
Excuse me...
You scared me!
It'll get cold.
Don't overdo it.
Make your mind up.
Algeria has beautiful vineyards.
Will you take me?
I mean, us.
I'll ship you by plane.
With a few cousins.
I'll get another bottle.
We've nothing else to do but nap.
Yes...
I'll sleep in your garden!
There's no bed!
Funny, aren't they?
Sylvie...
Tell me...
How are things with your husband?
Very good.
Are you sure?
Because I don't think so.
I see you're not happy.
Not completely...
Really?
Why do you say that?
Still having sex?
Mum...
That'll do.
Because I don't think you are.
I can tell.
It's a shame.
You're beautiful, Sylvie.
- Stop it.
- Full of desire.
What?
You're embarrassing her.
Sorry, Sylvie.
It's for her own good!
Sex is important in a relationship.
You know, when his father died...
I didn't shut up shop.
If you knew...
What are you saying?
Want to see where he grew up?
- Is that possible?
- No.
Yes, it is.
It's possible.
With me, anything's possible!
May I?
Let go.
By the way, we got the loan.
Great!
Congrats!
Mehdi never tells us.
Precisely...
It's why I wanted to tell you.
Your mum came to my parents'
for the weekend but...
I thought we could do dinner
with you and your sisters.
To mark the occasion.
You met my mum?
Yeah...
She didn't say?
We're not really communicating
right now.
She came to your parents'?
Yeah. And they love her.
But she really outdid us...
How so?
She holds her liquor.
My mum drank with you?
Yes.
I've a photo. Want to see?
Sure.
- You ok?
- Yeah...
I've rarely seen her like that.
You're out of your mind!
- You're fucking nuts!
- Ok...
Who does this?
I'm sorting it.
It's under control.
I panicked, I dunno.
I thought she was gonna leave me.
So you become a pathological liar?
What now?
I'm going to tell her the truth.
You think that will work?
What is this?
You lecture me!
"You'll kill Mum" bla bla bla...
Right now, you should disappear.
Ok, I get the message.
Thanks a lot.
She's lining up your fake wedding,
remember.
It won't be happening.
Enough of that crap.
You can tell mum that!
You serious?
More than ever.
Mehdi, those chunks are too big.
Cut them much smaller.
Exactly, like that. It has to melt.
Ok.
Ok, chef!
- I'm the chef here.
- Yes, chef.
This berkoukes will be delicious.
- Ever tasted it?
- No.
What do you do at work
if you can't cook?
He calls Mum for help!
I can cook,
just not everything.
There's a difference.
Mum says you fake it,
that's why we haven't tasted.
Yes, that's true...
- She said that?
- I haven't either.
I've never tasted...
I'll talk to her.
My son's a chef,
and I haven't tried his food.
Now we're going to taste.
Yes, we will.
The chef is here.
There's chicken and vegetables in it.
It's very tasty.
Mum?
- I need to tell you something.
- Go ahead.
You know, Ibra, my mate...
I saw him...
He won't do the wedding.
What do you mean?
What do you mean, Mehdi?
I don't get it.
- He doesn't want to.
- He did.
- I told everyone!
- Mum...
You told me he wanted to.
I told everyone.
- Why do that?
- I told everyone!
Why? I said I'd ask.
- Mum...
- I don't want to hear it!
- Mum...
- I don't!
Why tell everyone?
I said I'd ask.
I don't care.
- Where are you going?
- I need air.
- I'm going out.
- Stay, I planned something.
- I'll be back.
- Please.
I don't feel well.
When will you be back?
Aden...
I need you now.
My girlfriend's coming.
I'm going to introduce her to Granny.
But since Granny's gone out...
We won't mention her.
You've lost me.
Ok, I'll make it simple.
If my girlfriend asks about Granny,
say you don't know.
Ok.
How are you?
Fine.
Get here ok?
Yeah.
- Welcome to my Mum's.
- Hi.
Are you Uncle's chick?
Get her a drink
instead of talking nonsense.
Just a glass of water.
Thanks.
Your father?
Yes.
In the living room, pride of place.
You look alike.
So it seems.
My mum will be here soon.
When she arrives,
I've something to tell you.
Where are your sisters?
They couldn't come.
They're fighting with my mum
right now.
Next time.
As per usual.
So whose son are you?
Soraya's.
She's the big sister?
Where do you live?
Normally, in a flat.
But my mum's angry with my dad.
He has too many girls at his butchery.
So, we're at Gran's.
We're caring for her too,
after her hospital stay.
She was in hospital?
Cos of pregnant Auntie Faza.
And cousin Enzo
who wouldn't cut his willy.
My willy's cut.
Got a photo of Gran?
Mum, where are you?
Pick up, please.
I've been calling, pick up.
I'm waiting for you.
That's your grandma?
Mehdi's mum?
I don't know.
What do you mean?
Yes or no?
I don't know.
If she's your grandma?
No, I don't know.
Seen the time?
We start in five.
It won't work
unless you knuckle down.
I agree, it won't.
- I called you.
- You shouldn't have.
Your mother...
I wanted to talk to you.
Enough!
Get to work now.
I wanted to talk.
Sorry about that.
Your mum's here.
I know.
La called Souhila.
Your real mum.
Here he is.
- What are you doing?
- I came to see your work.
What is it? Can't I?
- Good evening.
- Good evening.
Can I eat here?
Of course.
Follow me.
What have you done?
She's with my mum.
I don't know what to do.
You told her about your mother?
Not at all, I didn't have time.
Khadija!
Hello, La.
Khadija, I'm glad you came.
How are you?
Play along,
or your son will lose everything.
I'm so glad she came.
This is my sister.
As you asked me to come, I invited her.
She's all alone.
Khadija...
This is La, Mehdi's wife.
I told you about her.
What is it?
They're getting married soon.
You know...
I know she's Mehdi's mother.
Stop lying.
Tell her.
She's his mother...
You see?
Go and fetch her something.
The emotion's too much for her.
Mehdi, I'm confused.
Tell me the truth.
Who is your mother?
You're right, she's my mum.
Which one?
This is my mother.
I wanted to do it earlier.
That's it.
Him too.
He's lost his mind.
Stop lying! For fuck's sake!
- Mum?
- Khadija?
Stop it, she's called Fatima.
Call a doctor!
She's pretending. She does it a lot.
There's no need for this.
Mum...
Come on! Mum! Wake up!
Fucking hell, Mum!
Stop!
Bernard, stop him.
My son's gone mad!
I'm not your son!
My mother isn't some whore!
Understand?
Enough...
Get off me.
She's just pretending, Bernard.
I know she is.
Stop it, I'm telling you.
Calm down.
I lied...
Calm down, come on.
Wait...
I wanted to tell you.
All for my parents' money.
Not at all, La.
I regret what I said.
I'm sorry.
Finally...
I never thought I'd hear that from you.
Give me a cigarette.
This place isn't a brothel.
The people here
have nowhere else to go.
Nobody judges them.
And your mother?
She won't talk to me.
She loves you.
She'll forgive you.
Your girlfriend too.
You don't know how lucky you are.
What luck?
I've lost everything.
Maybe not.
You just have to speak up
and tell the truth, that's all.
What do I say?
I don't know, I can't tell you.
I helped you.
You know...
Mehdi...
My son...
You're always welcome here.
This is your home now.
You'll always have a mother here.
You've got two now!
My son...
You've a visitor, Mrs Gharbi.
Hello.
Look, it's your son.
I've no son, only daughters.
That's not kind.
Ever replaced your mother?
No...
My mother is everything to me.
Always there for us.
- I love my mum.
- We get it, thanks.
Seen how he is?
Tell him to go
and find his new mother.
I don't want to see him.
Has your mother forced you
to date someone?
- I forced you?
- Yes!
You don't even deserve Amel.
Good! I don't want Amel.
I'll leave you to it.
No, please. Stay here.
Don't leave me with this madman.
He tried to kill me.
You were pretending!
You were faking it, Mum!
- I was faking it?
- Yes.
Specialists are seeing to me here.
- So what?
- Ask her!
Tell him...
You saw a doctor
and you're under observation.
Observation!
Did you hear that?
Under observation.
You caused this!
Stop saying that.
Stop blaming me all the time!
- Stop it!
- I'll really leave you to it.
Stop screaming.
Aren't you ashamed?
Everyone lies to protect you.
Think I wanted to do that?
To invent a new mum
and not do things the normal way?
I wanted it to be normal.
What would you have said?
What would you have said, Mum?
You ask me
to handle everyone's problems.
All the time, as if I was responsible.
We spend our lives protecting you.
What are you afraid of?
Of ending up alone...
That's never going to happen, ok.
No one's left you.
Let me die alone in hospital.
Nonsense.
I know suffering.
I'm used to it.
You don't know anything.
Know what I've suffered for you all?
No, you don't.
Because your mother's proud,
she bottles it up.
Your dad died for nothing.
When he was ill, he'd cry every night.
"Don't let me die here."
You don't know a thing.
Think my father wanted me
to come to France?
He did all he could
to keep me in Algeria.
But I loved your father.
When you love,
you have to be brave.
Sit down.
I don't want to.
I want to sort this and leave.
Sit down, or we won't talk at all.
I'm serious.
Sit down. Come on.
Please.
YOUR FAVOURITE
Algerian veal blanquette...
It's always tricky to rethink
a classic recipe.
Especially your favourite.
In cooking, as in love,
if we don't add a bit of ourselves,
then it's bland.
I'll never forget that.
This may not be
as good as your mum's,
but it's a piece of me.
I've added spices
and cooked it like a tagine,
so the meat is tender.
Taste it.
Berkoukes...
My mother, the real one,
didn't cook it often
as it took too long.
And she was tired.
But when my father asked for it,
she always made it.
I remember the smell when I'd get home.
It meant we'd eat together.
My father ate alone in front of the TV.
But when there was berkoukes,
we were all together at the table.
That's how it was.
A ritual.
I'd forgotten about that.
Put it to the back of my mind.
Now I remember.
Taste it.
I'm not sure you remember...
The first time you ate here,
when we met...
you ordered this dish.
Normandy cuttlefish,
with squid ink risotto.
It's been off the menu for ages now.
We'll serve it at Babel.
La...
I'm sorry.
It was easier to lie.
It was easier to hide.
It was easier...
to be one person with you...
and another with my family.
You lied so much.
La,
I love you.
That's the truth.
It always has been.
I changed the recipe.
Taste it.
I can't.
Hello.
Hello.
Are you ok?
Come in, I'll show you around.
It's not big but it's cosy.
What do you want to drink?
- A beer.
- Coming right up.
Hiya.
How are you?
I'm good, and you?
Welcome to our hangout.
The suit!
Like it or not?
It's the bare minimum.
And look at the shoes.
Cracking, aren't they?
Even Rym made an effort.
He thought it was a wedding!
- A wedding...
- What's with the pen?
I'm a solicitor!
Mr Solicitor, no one's in a suit.
Well...
Hello, Mummy!
Say hi to your daughter...
I can't take anymore
of this family's tricks.
There's wine inside.
And a mechouia salad.
Enjoy, sir.
- The king!
- He's chuffed.
I can be!
Look...
Taste this, it's like velvet.
You drink in front of your mother?
Shame on you.
He's still here?
You're not the boss, get out.
Look who's in charge now!
- I'm still the boss.
- Yes.
Always will be.
He's my boss!
No, don't start.
Don't worry, not in front of you.
Cheers!
- Alright, guys?
- Yeah.
- I'll bring him back.
- Alright.
What are you doing here?
Watching from afar.
I'm picking up Soraya's girl.
This isn't a place for kids.
Ok, but come in...
You can taste my briks.
No, I don't want to.
I'll be out of place.
I'm selling the house in Algeria.
Seriously?
Why?
Why keep it?
Your dad and I built it for all of you.
He's dead, bless his soul.
And you won't visit.
It's good he doesn't know.
I'm going to sell it
and give you some money each.
You can put it in the restaurant.
Don't rely on others.
What about you?
Me?
I'll get by.
I always have.
What else would I do?
You came.
Thank you.
Yes, but I'm leaving.
I'm here to fetch the little one.
My parents want to meet you.
- They do?
- Yes.
I've told them about you.
They want to meet you.
You'll get on well.
Come on...
Come on.
Come with me.
Ian Burley & Sophia Till
SPICES AND LIES
We've never done it here.
With the courgettes and carrots?
Could be handy.
We'll get busted.
We're doing no harm.
We love each other, that's all.
I have something on the stove.
Can we get some water, please?
I'll bring you some.
Now then, the terrine...
and the aubergine.
I'll bring you bread.
Excuse me!
Can you take table 5 some water?
I'll be back for the desserts.
Now then,
for Sylvie, a lobster bisque
I just made.
- You dear.
- Lovely.
You're no fish fan, Christophe,
but try my sea bream tartar.
I prefer meat, but fish suits me too.
There's meat too.
Lentils with sauted duck hearts.
Wonderful!
Have you seen how La's managing?
We were worried about her.
But it's amazing,
she's totally in her element.
How's the restaurant sale going?
Fine, we're on it.
Christophe and I would like to help you
if we can.
Financially, that is.
That's really kind of you.
But I think we can manage.
Think it over.
Sure, I'll think it over.
Enjoy and we'll talk again.
You're Mehdi's sister?
I'm La. Delighted.
A colleague?
Faza, how's it going?
- I wasn't expecting you.
- I called you.
We're rushed off our feet,
I was busy.
It's good to see you.
Have you two met?
No.
Faza, my little sister...
La, my girlfriend.
Gosh, I'm so sorry.
So you work here too.
- So it's you?
- Yes, it's me.
It's her.
I was so eager to meet you.
Your sisters too.
He hides us. He's ashamed.
- Yeah, sure.
- Your sister exists?
You bet.
Bernard.
There are others.
We'll talk later, after the rush.
She just popped in to say hi
passing through Lyon.
No, stay.
We can get acquainted.
My parents are here.
I'll introduce you.
You can eat with us.
You're meeting a friend.
I'll go later.
Let me try your cooking.
Come on.
Ok, great, let's do that.
Fuck!
Sorry, Mehdi.
I didn't see you there.
Sorry.
In Lyon on holiday?
- You don't live here?
- No, I study law in Montpellier.
Law?
I'm here for my nephew's circumcision
at my mum's.
Ok.
Isn't she in Algeria?
No. Why?
She's back here for a few days.
That's Mum.
You do the circumcision at hers?
How do you mean?
You do it at home?
Of course.
We lie my nephew on the table,
then we sing, film and dance...
It's fun.
It sounds it, but it must be...
Traumatic?
It's a celebration.
Our table's seen lots of willies.
I can show you Mehdi's circumcision.
She's joking.
I fell for it!
Were you serious, saying I "popped in"?
You talk like that now?
What is it you want?
Don't get mad.
What've you done?
C'mon, out with it!
Actually...
I'm pregnant.
What?
How the hell am I gonna tell Mum?
You're joking.
You're pregnant?
Who's the father?
Some old guy I dumped.
It was good but...
An old guy knocked you up?
Yes. It wasn't planned, ok?
We were out of condoms
and he was too hot to be careful...
Spare me your sex stories!
- But you...
- You're nuts, I'm not a girlfriend!
It's no joke!
You're the one who asked.
What'll you do?
Keep it.
Keep it?
For fuck's sake...
Faza, let's try to talk seriously here.
I'll tell Mum after the circumcision,
calmly.
Calmly?
Mum'll blow a fuse.
Don't you realise?
Calm down.
When else should I tell her?
When I give birth?
I need your support on this.
Please.
You never leave me in peace.
Fuck...
What did you tell your chick
about Mum?
I just said she was in Algeria.
She wanted to meet her.
Why?
Why, Faza?
Because...
I said the circumcision was
at Mum's.
I knew it! I knew it...
- Selvan, can you see to this?
- No worries.
Here you go, chef.
Thanks.
Ok?
Know what my sis told me?
They're circumcising my nephew
at my mum's on Sunday.
She's back from Algeria for it
and I didn't know.
She just told me.
They're too much.
- What?
- You think I'm fucking stupid?
I'll come Sunday.
That's impossible.
The family will be there,
Mum's friends...
I'll meet them all that way.
La, I already told you...
My mum's complicated.
She knows about us?
Why are you so keen on meeting her?
Is it some sort of enquiry?
- You're with me, not my family.
- I'm always with them.
You think I don't notice?
The problems with your mum.
She's in Algeria, then she's sick...
Your family's always there.
Your family and your lies.
Isn't this serious?
Of course it's serious.
Maybe you don't love me.
Of course I love you.
Don't say that.
So why do you hide me?
Stop by and see us.
I'd like to meet the baby.
Great. Give them my love.
What's up, chef?
Long time, no see.
Can I get a beer, Souhila?
- How's the Algerian?
- Good. And you?
Where's my man?
It's our evening tonight,
so keep a low profile.
No worries, he's coming.
I'm warning you, ok?
Sousou...
- We need more glasses.
- Coming.
Cheers.
Good health.
If I redo Sunday couscous,
can you help?
I do bistro dishes, not couscous.
"I do bistro dishes, not couscous."
Are you crazy or what?
An Algerian chef
who can't make couscous!
Unbelievable!
Know what? Come on Sunday.
It's so good, it'll blow your mind.
- Yeah?
- Yeah.
And bring Ibrahim.
Thought about my offer?
Bro, it's tough.
I need new wheels,
I can't lend you dough now.
You won't be my partner?
It'll be huge.
I do cars, not restaurants.
- So?
- And you and La fought.
That's temporary, ok?
This project is rock solid.
You said your mum was in Algeria
when she's here.
Count me out.
My mum will be going back.
I just anticipated her move.
You're doing my head in.
It's true, that's nothing.
What's going on?
You came for me or for him?
I'm here for you, omri.
He speaks Arabic now.
The Arabic of love.
Exactly, I'm fluent
in literary Arabic, bro.
I taught him.
Sleep at your mum's!
La...
Open up, please.
Big rush at lunchtime.
We're wiped out.
I'm going to my parents'
for my days off.
Why?
I need to.
I'm taking the wrong path.
What do you mean?
The restaurant, everything...
We're not ready.
It's too soon, too fragile.
It's not fragile.
It's solid.
So prove it.
Tell your mother.
I'll do it.
I swear I will.
My darling son's here.
Go on, give everyone a kiss.
- How are you?
- Fine, and you?
Great, thanks.
Hi, kids!
You're a real man now.
He's the same age as Kamel.
The exact same age.
And good-looking too.
Thank you.
Ok, handsome?
Don't say anything yet.
I need to talk to her first.
It's important. So don't say a word, ok?
Get plates for the aunties.
- Hi.
- Nice to meet you.
- Amel.
- Mehdi.
Don't recognise her?
Amel is your friend Brahim's sister.
Right...
She does politics now.
As a student.
Not bad. Is it going ok?
Yes, great.
Mehdi has his own restaurant.
We'll eat there one day.
Lovely.
Mehdi, stay and chat with her.
She came to meet him
and he walks off.
Go and talk together.
Give me that glass.
Go and tell her about your restaurant.
So?
Where do you want it?
What?
The wedding.
Do you prefer France or Algeria?
What wedding?
What do you mean?
We don't know each other.
Yes, we do.
We were at the same school.
And our mothers are friends.
That matters.
I don't even remember you.
- Trying to offend me?
- Not at all.
I remember your cute little face.
Your curly hair.
I've always dreamt of you.
For me, Prince Charming was you.
Are you serious?
No.
No, I'm kidding.
It's a joke.
- Are you crazy?
- What is this?
What's the plan?
Your mum keeps showing us
photos of you.
She loves her son.
What's up with Mathias?
- He agreed, right?
- He changed his mind.
Enzo was crying,
so he wants to stop.
Crying's no big deal.
We can't tell her.
Everyone's here.
But it's too late now!
Mum's right, it's what you get
with French guys.
Look after your butcher.
Don't start...
- Where is Mathias?
- I've no idea.
It'll be ok.
What's going on?
They didn't cut him.
Mum can't find out.
Keep quiet about your willy
or Granny will be sad.
We'll pretend you did it.
She'll realise my willy is normal.
No, cos we'll change your clothes
for the white jellaba
and put a dab of tomato
on your willy.
In case she checks.
Won't it sting?
Tomato sauce doesn't sting.
You'll really do that?
It's risky.
You'd rather tell her?
Go ahead.
Here's the champion!
Are you ok? Did it go well?
Granny has a big present for you.
I bet she has.
What's that?
Dad didn't want my willy cut,
so Uncle put tomato sauce on it.
Mehdi!
- Mum!
- Let me through.
Mum, are you ok? Are you with us?
Send them away.
Everyone leave now.
It'll work out, ok?
I'll talk to Mathias.
All you do is talk.
He thinks we're barbarians.
All over his son's foreskin!
What's he thinking?
We'll make a tagine with it
and eat it?
I've always sacrificed myself
for you all.
And this is the thanks I get.
You call that gratitude, Mehdi?
The house will be ready soon.
I'll go back to Algeria
and leave you all in peace.
Enough, Mum, stop talking nonsense.
Enough.
My heart is weak.
I won't last much longer.
I'll soon join your father.
Mum, please, enough now.
Come on, stop that.
Stop now, that'll do.
Come on, Mum.
It's alright, it's nothing.
It'll be alright, just trust me.
It's alright.
It's over.
It's all over.
And little Amel?
I saw how you were looking at her.
See how intelligent she is?
She's so beautiful.
My dream is to have a big wedding.
In Algeria,
in the new house, inch'Allah.
Here, taste this.
But I don't...
Come on.
Well?
Your sauce is incredible.
What's in it?
I won't give you my secrets.
You have to earn them.
- It's delicious.
- Calm down.
What's the problem with your mother?
How d'you know?
How?
Part of the job, habibi.
It's pretty simple...
Either I introduce my girl to my mum
and kill her,
or I don't, and my girl leaves me.
Why don't you introduce her?
- Is she ugly?
- No, she's really...
It's just that my mum
dreams of seeing me
with an Algerian girl.
To preserve our culture.
She's right. Look at you.
An Algerian cook
who can't do couscous.
The very basics.
Not my fault she didn't teach me.
You're a big boy now. You can learn.
Yeah...
Want to meet an Algerian girl?
I know one. A bombshell.
No, no need.
La's my girlfriend.
Algerian sisters are enough.
You're the only boy in the family?
And your father?
He's dead.
You support the whole family.
Poor you.
Know what?
You should see a shrink.
Honestly, you Algerians
get into the worst situations.
I'll be your mum.
What?
I'll play your mum for your girl.
It's easy, I've done it before.
You've played someone's mum?
You've no idea
of the stuff I've done, habibi.
It would fill a book.
For us, lying is survival.
We lie to hide,
to avoid hurting others,
and we even lie sometimes to live.
Your mother too, you know.
She'll have lied too.
Why would you do that for me?
Cos I love you like a son.
What?
I'm kidding.
For money, habibi.
How will we do it?
Tell me about your mum.
She sacrificed a lot for us.
Too much.
And I feel that,
for her,
France stole her husband from her.
She's scared
her children will be next.
Understand?
That's called exile.
Of course I understand.
You're ashamed of her.
No, not at all.
I'm not ashamed.
But...
I protect her, it's different.
I understand.
Actually,
your mum isn't a victim.
- Too much lipstick?
- It's great.
Your mother is a proud woman,
a woman of character.
My mum's very simple, don't worry.
In the shit, she holds her head up.
Like a woman from Oran.
Yes, that's it exactly.
That's it.
I can see her.
I can feel her.
All the Ra of Algeria
is rising up in me.
Give me a second...
But a calm form of Ra.
Not too much of a beat.
Calm.
You ok?
What's this get-up?
You blew a fuse?
I'm dressed like a woman from Oran.
This is silk,
this is a Herms scarf,
and I'm blonde like your mum.
I never said to do that.
Habibi...
Every great actress has her costume.
I'm giving you a high-class mother,
so you should be happy.
What did I tell you?
Something simple, right?
My mother doesn't wear a headscarf.
No more headscarf. Ok?
Stop lecturing me.
Ok? I thought of something
on the way here.
I thought I could do an accent,
a nice North African one...
No! My mother's French is excellent.
Stop messing around, ok!
- Lela!
- It's La!
Lela!
Sweetheart!
I'm so happy to meet you.
It was high time.
- Likewise.
- La... Mum.
We know that!
What has he said about me?
He said I was mean, did he?
I'm very happy to meet you anyhow.
Really I am.
You date a pretty girl like her
and don't introduce me?
- Ashamed of your mother?
- No.
Alright.
See how uptight he is?
He brings us to this rich folks' place...
I'll catch up.
What?
I told you not to tell her.
Where are you?
Which hospital?
As a boy, he loved the ducks.
One day, we found him in the water.
He was trying to catch one.
He was soaked.
People were staring. The shame of it!
Weren't you taking the keys
to your cousin who just got back?
Your cousin from Algeria.
We'll be late.
Let me enjoy my daughter-in-law.
When are you going to Algeria?
I'm going to stay a while.
I'm in no hurry.
Not in a hurry?
You have to finish the work
on the house.
Here, take her the keys.
Tell her I'll see her later.
I won't let her piss me off.
I'll stay and tell La
all about Algeria.
Ok?
Keep it decent.
How are you?
I hate hospitals.
Good job your sister brought my things.
Linda won't circumcise my grandson,
Soraya still wants a divorce
and now,
sweet little Faza
is pregnant?
What will you tell me?
Go on.
Tell me.
I'm ready, tell me.
- I've nothing to tell you.
- Go on.
Really, nothing at all.
I want you to rest, that's all.
I want to die.
Not one person pities me.
Amel... Come in.
It's kind of you to come, sweetie.
How are you, Auntie?
- How are you?
- I'm fine, and you?
Fine. Thanks for coming.
Hi there.
I hope it's not serious, Fatima?
It's serious. I had a funny turn.
My health is poor.
But seeing your daughter,
I feel better.
You're radiant.
Mum, what did the doctors say?
The doctor doesn't know.
But he's very worried.
I'll go and talk to him.
- Amel, go with him.
- It's ok.
Let her go with you.
She speaks nicely.
- My pleasure.
- Thank you.
Her problem is all of you.
You make her ill.
Talk to your sisters.
Hold on a second.
I don't understand.
My mother told you that?
- She has heart arrhythmia.
- Ok.
And you'll soon kill her.
You were born here
and act like the French.
We respect our parents.
Are you serious?
Being a doctor
doesn't let you talk like that.
Yeah, is it any of your business?
You're not my dad, you're a doctor.
Sorry...
Seriously?
- Is he serious?
- Weird...
Why did you tell her?
What else could I do?
Talk some sense into her.
You're not gonna keep it?
You're in uni.
Give me a break with that.
I hate law anyway, I'm quitting.
Yeah?
I support you, Faza.
Do as you want. We'll be here.
I don't agree.
But I support you too.
The feminist league, ok...
And I'm the big bad macho.
You talk like Mum does.
Join our side.
Sure, if you like.
We go to Mum's room
and stage a demo?
Got banners?
We demand rights?
You think I enjoy doing this?
I feel like saying, "Linda,
what about Enzo?"
"Soraya, talk to your husband."
"Faza, you're pregnant?
Awesome, the family's getting bigger.
I'll arrange a meal."
No, actually!
I don't enjoy it, it pisses me off.
Screw it!
Calm down, this is a hospital.
I'll never go back to Walid.
He's all escalope and merguez
in his butcher's shop.
I mean it.
Guys should be circumcised
when they're adults.
They'd remember the pain that way
and stop pissing us off
with their knobs.
Ok, great.
- Run and cry to Mummy!
- How old are you?
How about you?
Don't you want to have a bath?
It'd do you good.
I'm ok, thanks.
Whatever.
I have to go soon.
Your mum's incredible.
I've rarely met such a strong woman.
There are others, but...
It can't have been easy as kids.
What she said devastated me.
What did she tell you?
Is that why
you didn't want us to meet?
I don't understand.
What she did when you were young.
When did you find out
she frequented men for money?
What?
My love, don't be ashamed.
After your dad died, she had no choice.
She's a brave woman, that's all.
She told you that?
I wasn't to tell you.
But I want us to be open.
Why did you tell her that?
Are you crazy?
She wanted something powerful,
so I mixed your mum's past and mine.
Twice the suffering.
That sells.
What do I do with that?
Make the most of it.
I've put suspense in your life.
Right, I was lacking suspense
in my life.
A whisky, please.
Suspense...
What about her?
She's happy, isn't she?
She adores you.
Totally adores you.
You wanted that.
Yes, but...
I didn't want it like this...
Souhila, from now on, please,
do as I say, please.
Do as I say
and don't improvise crazy stuff.
Know what? Souhila is free.
Cough up.
- Listen.
- What?
La wants to invite you
to the restaurant to eat
on the day we're closed.
Fantastic!
I'll sample my son's cooking.
Yes, wonderful.
But it'll be the last time you see her.
Tell her you're going back to Algeria
and stick to that.
Just say we'll see each other again.
Honestly,
I've only just got to know her.
How can we have a real relationship?
You're taking me for a fool.
I don't want you to have
a real relationship.
Your mother... How is she?
She's ok.
Want a fake husband for your sister?
Plenty here.
Are you serious?
What?
What is this place?
A bar or an agency?
Algerian boy, come and dance!
No, I'm ok.
Stop doing deals with Sousou.
Come and dance instead.
Come on.
Don't act so shy, come on!
This one is for my son,
Mehdi the Algerian!
So, for the company's name,
you've chosen Babel.
Yes.
You're putting in 120,000 euros.
20,000 for the gentleman,
100,000 for the lady.
- Yes.
- That's right.
Because...
her parents are helping us.
Very good.
How do you wish to divide up the shares?
We'll do it 50/50.
Are you sure?
He's not contributing...
He contributes skills
beyond monetary value.
He's the cook.
He's the restaurant.
Exactly.
Very good.
It's your decision but, in that case,
we'll divide the shares 51/49.
In case of any dispute.
There won't be one.
I have to insist.
We'll toss a coin.
That's a first for me.
Here. Heads or tails?
No, I can't do it.
We're not going to toss a coin.
We won't do that.
We'll do 51 for you,
and 49 for me.
You sure?
You bet. That's good.
Once I pay back the difference,
we'll come back here and do 50/50.
With the lady.
Even if it's unusual.
No.
May I kiss my partner?
- After you sign the contract.
- A kiss first.
Stop it.
Here you go.
You're happy.
- He'll do a speech.
- Cool.
Cool, he says!
I'm really proud of you.
When do we see Cinderella?
Whenever you want.
I'll set it up
once the restaurant's ours.
With hookahs?
It's a real restaurant
with real food.
Not hookahs and panini.
The guy's getting big ideas!
He'll have us eating
pork medallions soon.
Yeah.
Whole roasted pigs...
Be seated, my lords!
Welcome to my domain.
Give us a break.
Do we get invited to the opening?
You're at the top of the list.
You have real balls, bro.
What?
Telling your mum about all that...
No need,
he got Souhila to play his mum.
Yeah?
Souhila, that dive's owner?
Yes, sir.
Not true!
Know who he's dating?
Tell them.
I love Yasmine. I'm gonna marry her.
He loves her.
He's lost for the cause!
I warned you.
Good evening.
His mum and sister?
Not like I imagined them.
I'm the boss for now.
You're his mum.
Welcome.
You're learning Arabic.
Here, meet Yasmine.
Delighted.
My niece, Mehdi's cousin.
She needs to get out a bit.
Maybe she'll want to stay in France
after this.
I'm not so sure.
Is Ibrahim hot for your cousin?
That guy's a total Casanova.
Pinot grigio. Who wants some?
Me.
I'll try it to make you happy.
I dream of drinking Italian wine.
You little jerk.
I'll have water.
Yeah.
Mehdi, a drop?
No, I'm good.
I'll prepare the next course.
No, hold on, you have to make a speech.
It's your mum's first visit
and she's leaving soon, unfortunately.
You're right, Bernard.
Making speeches is important.
You have to speak from the heart.
- A good speech makes me cry.
- Me too.
I'm not into speeches.
If you don't speak, I won't eat.
You've no choice.
Well then... Mum...
It's your first visit to this restaurant
where I've worked for a while now.
Thanks to Bernard.
He had faith in me.
I don't regret it.
He taught me a lot.
Everything.
I'd just like to tell you...
I'm very happy you're here.
It matters to me.
For me, cooking is...
above all a story, an emotion, and..
I'm glad you're here to discover it.
I don't think I realised but...
I want to make you proud.
Now you've decided
to move back to Algeria for good,
we'll miss you, Mum.
Sounds like he's burying me!
I haven't left yet.
And Algeria isn't far.
You can all come to see me.
As for you, I want a kiss.
They're so cute...
I want to speak too.
You want a kiss as well?
Go ahead, make your speech.
Alright then...
We don't see your family every day.
Can't wait to meet the others.
What I really want to say is...
that I'm proud of you.
I'm proud of what you've become.
I don't often get the chance
to tell you this,
but what you dream of
when you devote your life
to a restaurant, is to pass it on.
When you pass things on,
it gives your life meaning.
It shows you
it wasn't in vain.
In any case,
I'm passing on
my restaurant
to you two,
because you're not alone, Mehdi.
There's La, too.
And you sold us the restaurant.
Hey...
I need money for booze.
Cheers, everyone.
Enjoy!
I'll prepare the rest.
Let me taste that wine.
You can't leave me with water.
I need to get over my emotions.
- You two moved me.
- Really?
No, in our culture,
a mother never drinks
in front of her son.
So, I'll sip from your glass.
Sure...
My aunt loves the vino.
She loves it.
Your cod loin.
It looks delicious.
Applause for the excellent chef!
You don't have to...
Bravo!
It's delicious, man.
A few breadcrumbs,
and that's a sick fish finger.
Enjoy.
Can I have a word?
It melts in your mouth.
What are you playing at?
You stink of booze.
I'm doing as the French do.
My mum doesn't drink.
Stop this.
What do you know?
She's not a saint.
She can live a little.
So...
Is it tasty?
Delicious!
Did you teach him to cook?
Of course.
It all started with me.
Little, he was always in the kitchen.
So I gave him an apron.
I let him play
with the veg.
He made such a mess.
Funny, he told me
you wouldn't let him.
Nonsense!
I encouraged him.
He thinks he's self-taught.
Well?
Sulking in your kitchen?
You ok?
Liked the wine?
I'm a bit tipsy, but I feel fine.
I've something to tell you, though.
The meal was very good.
We ate well.
But where's Algeria?
When we cook,
if we don't think of our childhood,
our families,
what's the point?
You know why we like traditional dishes?
Because they bring back memories.
You're leaving?
I'm taking Fatima home.
What?
You've had a drink.
I have...
So I'll drive slowly.
Well, yeah...
He'll drive really slowly.
Let's go.
Good night.
The look on his face!
Sorry for this evening.
I was on edge.
I don't know...
My mum and Bernard...
Wow...
What's that about?
Do I know everything?
Yeah...
Why?
I don't know.
She doesn't match your description.
She told me she ran a bar too.
Yeah...
She doesn't do that anymore.
She's had 1,000 lives.
Each time,
I discover something new.
Me too, each time, I swear...
Sure you've nothing to tell me?
I'm not really her son.
What?
I'm kidding.
What did you say? I can't hear.
Still can't hear? I love you!
I'm not going back to Algeria anymore.
What do you mean?
I can't leave your pregnant sister.
Who'll look after her, help her?
She's still at university.
And the divorce...
We'll help.
You?
- You'll help her?
- Yes.
You're never around.
Your kitchen's your family.
You're exaggerating, Mum...
What's going on?
- You want me gone?
- Not at all.
It feels like you want me gone.
You're hiding something.
No, it's not that...
Mum, it's just...
You've dreamt of going back.
You'll be happier.
Sick with worry, more like.
I'd rather stay.
I don't care.
Your sister will have a fake wedding.
- There.
- What?
What do you mean?
Ask Ibrahim.
- Ibrahim?
- He'll agree.
He's black.
So what?
I like the boy, I trust him.
What will people say
when the baby's born?
No one will see the baby.
No...
What?
I won't do it.
- What do you mean?
- It's too much.
I hate trickery!
- Trickery?
- Yes.
Enough now.
You're asking too much.
Mehdi?
I swear, I'll take the pills,
and swallow them all!
This very second!
You don't know me.
You've all shamed and humiliated me.
I can't stand you.
I can't live with you anymore.
That's it, I want to die.
Fine, I'll ask him.
Teach me your cuisine.
Why did you never teach me
to cook Algerian food?
Why have you never invited me
to your restaurant?
- What the hell?
- I invited her.
I want her to meet my parents.
I knew you'd react like this,
but it's important to me.
For God's sake...
You know, when I was younger,
I was a pro belly dancer.
I danced in cabarets, bars...
- The Lido?
- Certainly not.
Dressed in only a G-string?
No, thank you!
I've done a lot in my life but not that!
I only showed my navel.
That said...
I wiggled my bum.
I couldn't dance like that.
It's easy, really.
It just takes practice.
Want a demo?
- What?
- Yes.
- Not here.
- What? Why not?
- Not right now.
- Let me be!
I'm showing her.
What's wrong with you?
Look.
You wear a scarf...
to accentuate your movements.
You tie it tight, so it doesn't fall.
Mum, people are looking.
The gentleman's happy.
Look at him, he's smiling.
He wants to see.
Look...
Here's an important move.
Figure of eight, forwards.
Figure of eight, backwards.
Forwards...
And above all...
This...
Like this.
All together now!
Arms up!
All the way!
Sensual!
Let's move!
Arms down now, slowly, making waves...
And the hips!
Keep it going! Here I come.
Come on, your tits!
More tits!
Come on, son!
Stop sulking!
- Hello, Sylvie.
- Hello, Mehdi.
- I'm delighted to meet you.
- Me too.
I'm sorry, I'm not dressed up.
I didn't think...
It's to celebrate the restaurant.
You don't knock?
Why are you here?
She insisted I come,
I wasn't going to say no.
My mum isn't going back.
I wanted to tell La the truth
this weekend.
I'm sick of pretending!
And you turn up.
What do I do now?
What do I do?
I can't tell her with you here.
Just like that.
Your mum changed her mind.
She's staying in France with her kids.
And you thought, once in the country,
at La's parents,
I'll tell her the truth.
Tell me,
are you stupid or insane?
What should I do?
Anything!
Anything but that!
I don't know...
Maybe...
Me...
I could carry on.
You're crazy.
You think I've got money to burn?
If it's the money,
we can work something out.
We're not working anything out.
We're stopping this.
You ok?
I'm fine...
So...
What do you want to do?
Make people like you less.
Make sure things go badly
with her parents.
If we manage that...
I can tell her.
So you want people to hate me?
Not to hate you...
I just want it...
to go badly.
Souhila, I'm sorry it's come to this...
Here she is.
- Thank you.
- You're welcome.
I've made veal blanquette.
La's favourite.
Is that ok?
Veal? Frankly...
You know, calves are separated
from their mothers at birth?
It's torture.
I'm not eating that.
I'm sorry.
We'll make you something else.
I'm sorry, Fatima.
It's ok.
But this is a celebration.
So, what shall we drink?
Fatima?
Whatever you feel like...
I like red wine.
I'll fetch some from the cellar.
- A cellar?
- Yes.
Will you show me?
Yes, of course.
Come with me.
I'll go and make her something.
I'll have to improvise...
Nothing fancy. Anything's fine.
What's up with her?
- It's a young wine.
- Yeah, it smells of wine.
I prefer champagne.
Champagne's also wine.
Wine from Champagne.
But this really is
a beautiful Gamay bouquet.
It's a Morgon, so...
we have aromas of...
cherry, a little bit of kirsch.
I smell raspberries.
Yes, those too.
For me...
It's more like biting
into a big, juicy cherry.
I want a taste, not a poem!
Go ahead, taste it.
- Well?
- It's wine.
Yes,
but it's a rather special wine
from a shale terrain.
So, it's denser.
Christophe...
You love wine.
- I can tell.
- It's my passion.
And your wife?
You love her?
When I hear you talk, I sense
you love your wine more than your wife.
Shame, Sylvie's beautiful.
Of course she is.
Talk to your wife
like you talk about wine.
Tell me...
How long have you had a mistress?
- Sorry?
- I can tell.
Admit it.
I know men's ways.
Excuse me...
You scared me!
It'll get cold.
Don't overdo it.
Make your mind up.
Algeria has beautiful vineyards.
Will you take me?
I mean, us.
I'll ship you by plane.
With a few cousins.
I'll get another bottle.
We've nothing else to do but nap.
Yes...
I'll sleep in your garden!
There's no bed!
Funny, aren't they?
Sylvie...
Tell me...
How are things with your husband?
Very good.
Are you sure?
Because I don't think so.
I see you're not happy.
Not completely...
Really?
Why do you say that?
Still having sex?
Mum...
That'll do.
Because I don't think you are.
I can tell.
It's a shame.
You're beautiful, Sylvie.
- Stop it.
- Full of desire.
What?
You're embarrassing her.
Sorry, Sylvie.
It's for her own good!
Sex is important in a relationship.
You know, when his father died...
I didn't shut up shop.
If you knew...
What are you saying?
Want to see where he grew up?
- Is that possible?
- No.
Yes, it is.
It's possible.
With me, anything's possible!
May I?
Let go.
By the way, we got the loan.
Great!
Congrats!
Mehdi never tells us.
Precisely...
It's why I wanted to tell you.
Your mum came to my parents'
for the weekend but...
I thought we could do dinner
with you and your sisters.
To mark the occasion.
You met my mum?
Yeah...
She didn't say?
We're not really communicating
right now.
She came to your parents'?
Yeah. And they love her.
But she really outdid us...
How so?
She holds her liquor.
My mum drank with you?
Yes.
I've a photo. Want to see?
Sure.
- You ok?
- Yeah...
I've rarely seen her like that.
You're out of your mind!
- You're fucking nuts!
- Ok...
Who does this?
I'm sorting it.
It's under control.
I panicked, I dunno.
I thought she was gonna leave me.
So you become a pathological liar?
What now?
I'm going to tell her the truth.
You think that will work?
What is this?
You lecture me!
"You'll kill Mum" bla bla bla...
Right now, you should disappear.
Ok, I get the message.
Thanks a lot.
She's lining up your fake wedding,
remember.
It won't be happening.
Enough of that crap.
You can tell mum that!
You serious?
More than ever.
Mehdi, those chunks are too big.
Cut them much smaller.
Exactly, like that. It has to melt.
Ok.
Ok, chef!
- I'm the chef here.
- Yes, chef.
This berkoukes will be delicious.
- Ever tasted it?
- No.
What do you do at work
if you can't cook?
He calls Mum for help!
I can cook,
just not everything.
There's a difference.
Mum says you fake it,
that's why we haven't tasted.
Yes, that's true...
- She said that?
- I haven't either.
I've never tasted...
I'll talk to her.
My son's a chef,
and I haven't tried his food.
Now we're going to taste.
Yes, we will.
The chef is here.
There's chicken and vegetables in it.
It's very tasty.
Mum?
- I need to tell you something.
- Go ahead.
You know, Ibra, my mate...
I saw him...
He won't do the wedding.
What do you mean?
What do you mean, Mehdi?
I don't get it.
- He doesn't want to.
- He did.
- I told everyone!
- Mum...
You told me he wanted to.
I told everyone.
- Why do that?
- I told everyone!
Why? I said I'd ask.
- Mum...
- I don't want to hear it!
- Mum...
- I don't!
Why tell everyone?
I said I'd ask.
I don't care.
- Where are you going?
- I need air.
- I'm going out.
- Stay, I planned something.
- I'll be back.
- Please.
I don't feel well.
When will you be back?
Aden...
I need you now.
My girlfriend's coming.
I'm going to introduce her to Granny.
But since Granny's gone out...
We won't mention her.
You've lost me.
Ok, I'll make it simple.
If my girlfriend asks about Granny,
say you don't know.
Ok.
How are you?
Fine.
Get here ok?
Yeah.
- Welcome to my Mum's.
- Hi.
Are you Uncle's chick?
Get her a drink
instead of talking nonsense.
Just a glass of water.
Thanks.
Your father?
Yes.
In the living room, pride of place.
You look alike.
So it seems.
My mum will be here soon.
When she arrives,
I've something to tell you.
Where are your sisters?
They couldn't come.
They're fighting with my mum
right now.
Next time.
As per usual.
So whose son are you?
Soraya's.
She's the big sister?
Where do you live?
Normally, in a flat.
But my mum's angry with my dad.
He has too many girls at his butchery.
So, we're at Gran's.
We're caring for her too,
after her hospital stay.
She was in hospital?
Cos of pregnant Auntie Faza.
And cousin Enzo
who wouldn't cut his willy.
My willy's cut.
Got a photo of Gran?
Mum, where are you?
Pick up, please.
I've been calling, pick up.
I'm waiting for you.
That's your grandma?
Mehdi's mum?
I don't know.
What do you mean?
Yes or no?
I don't know.
If she's your grandma?
No, I don't know.
Seen the time?
We start in five.
It won't work
unless you knuckle down.
I agree, it won't.
- I called you.
- You shouldn't have.
Your mother...
I wanted to talk to you.
Enough!
Get to work now.
I wanted to talk.
Sorry about that.
Your mum's here.
I know.
La called Souhila.
Your real mum.
Here he is.
- What are you doing?
- I came to see your work.
What is it? Can't I?
- Good evening.
- Good evening.
Can I eat here?
Of course.
Follow me.
What have you done?
She's with my mum.
I don't know what to do.
You told her about your mother?
Not at all, I didn't have time.
Khadija!
Hello, La.
Khadija, I'm glad you came.
How are you?
Play along,
or your son will lose everything.
I'm so glad she came.
This is my sister.
As you asked me to come, I invited her.
She's all alone.
Khadija...
This is La, Mehdi's wife.
I told you about her.
What is it?
They're getting married soon.
You know...
I know she's Mehdi's mother.
Stop lying.
Tell her.
She's his mother...
You see?
Go and fetch her something.
The emotion's too much for her.
Mehdi, I'm confused.
Tell me the truth.
Who is your mother?
You're right, she's my mum.
Which one?
This is my mother.
I wanted to do it earlier.
That's it.
Him too.
He's lost his mind.
Stop lying! For fuck's sake!
- Mum?
- Khadija?
Stop it, she's called Fatima.
Call a doctor!
She's pretending. She does it a lot.
There's no need for this.
Mum...
Come on! Mum! Wake up!
Fucking hell, Mum!
Stop!
Bernard, stop him.
My son's gone mad!
I'm not your son!
My mother isn't some whore!
Understand?
Enough...
Get off me.
She's just pretending, Bernard.
I know she is.
Stop it, I'm telling you.
Calm down.
I lied...
Calm down, come on.
Wait...
I wanted to tell you.
All for my parents' money.
Not at all, La.
I regret what I said.
I'm sorry.
Finally...
I never thought I'd hear that from you.
Give me a cigarette.
This place isn't a brothel.
The people here
have nowhere else to go.
Nobody judges them.
And your mother?
She won't talk to me.
She loves you.
She'll forgive you.
Your girlfriend too.
You don't know how lucky you are.
What luck?
I've lost everything.
Maybe not.
You just have to speak up
and tell the truth, that's all.
What do I say?
I don't know, I can't tell you.
I helped you.
You know...
Mehdi...
My son...
You're always welcome here.
This is your home now.
You'll always have a mother here.
You've got two now!
My son...
You've a visitor, Mrs Gharbi.
Hello.
Look, it's your son.
I've no son, only daughters.
That's not kind.
Ever replaced your mother?
No...
My mother is everything to me.
Always there for us.
- I love my mum.
- We get it, thanks.
Seen how he is?
Tell him to go
and find his new mother.
I don't want to see him.
Has your mother forced you
to date someone?
- I forced you?
- Yes!
You don't even deserve Amel.
Good! I don't want Amel.
I'll leave you to it.
No, please. Stay here.
Don't leave me with this madman.
He tried to kill me.
You were pretending!
You were faking it, Mum!
- I was faking it?
- Yes.
Specialists are seeing to me here.
- So what?
- Ask her!
Tell him...
You saw a doctor
and you're under observation.
Observation!
Did you hear that?
Under observation.
You caused this!
Stop saying that.
Stop blaming me all the time!
- Stop it!
- I'll really leave you to it.
Stop screaming.
Aren't you ashamed?
Everyone lies to protect you.
Think I wanted to do that?
To invent a new mum
and not do things the normal way?
I wanted it to be normal.
What would you have said?
What would you have said, Mum?
You ask me
to handle everyone's problems.
All the time, as if I was responsible.
We spend our lives protecting you.
What are you afraid of?
Of ending up alone...
That's never going to happen, ok.
No one's left you.
Let me die alone in hospital.
Nonsense.
I know suffering.
I'm used to it.
You don't know anything.
Know what I've suffered for you all?
No, you don't.
Because your mother's proud,
she bottles it up.
Your dad died for nothing.
When he was ill, he'd cry every night.
"Don't let me die here."
You don't know a thing.
Think my father wanted me
to come to France?
He did all he could
to keep me in Algeria.
But I loved your father.
When you love,
you have to be brave.
Sit down.
I don't want to.
I want to sort this and leave.
Sit down, or we won't talk at all.
I'm serious.
Sit down. Come on.
Please.
YOUR FAVOURITE
Algerian veal blanquette...
It's always tricky to rethink
a classic recipe.
Especially your favourite.
In cooking, as in love,
if we don't add a bit of ourselves,
then it's bland.
I'll never forget that.
This may not be
as good as your mum's,
but it's a piece of me.
I've added spices
and cooked it like a tagine,
so the meat is tender.
Taste it.
Berkoukes...
My mother, the real one,
didn't cook it often
as it took too long.
And she was tired.
But when my father asked for it,
she always made it.
I remember the smell when I'd get home.
It meant we'd eat together.
My father ate alone in front of the TV.
But when there was berkoukes,
we were all together at the table.
That's how it was.
A ritual.
I'd forgotten about that.
Put it to the back of my mind.
Now I remember.
Taste it.
I'm not sure you remember...
The first time you ate here,
when we met...
you ordered this dish.
Normandy cuttlefish,
with squid ink risotto.
It's been off the menu for ages now.
We'll serve it at Babel.
La...
I'm sorry.
It was easier to lie.
It was easier to hide.
It was easier...
to be one person with you...
and another with my family.
You lied so much.
La,
I love you.
That's the truth.
It always has been.
I changed the recipe.
Taste it.
I can't.
Hello.
Hello.
Are you ok?
Come in, I'll show you around.
It's not big but it's cosy.
What do you want to drink?
- A beer.
- Coming right up.
Hiya.
How are you?
I'm good, and you?
Welcome to our hangout.
The suit!
Like it or not?
It's the bare minimum.
And look at the shoes.
Cracking, aren't they?
Even Rym made an effort.
He thought it was a wedding!
- A wedding...
- What's with the pen?
I'm a solicitor!
Mr Solicitor, no one's in a suit.
Well...
Hello, Mummy!
Say hi to your daughter...
I can't take anymore
of this family's tricks.
There's wine inside.
And a mechouia salad.
Enjoy, sir.
- The king!
- He's chuffed.
I can be!
Look...
Taste this, it's like velvet.
You drink in front of your mother?
Shame on you.
He's still here?
You're not the boss, get out.
Look who's in charge now!
- I'm still the boss.
- Yes.
Always will be.
He's my boss!
No, don't start.
Don't worry, not in front of you.
Cheers!
- Alright, guys?
- Yeah.
- I'll bring him back.
- Alright.
What are you doing here?
Watching from afar.
I'm picking up Soraya's girl.
This isn't a place for kids.
Ok, but come in...
You can taste my briks.
No, I don't want to.
I'll be out of place.
I'm selling the house in Algeria.
Seriously?
Why?
Why keep it?
Your dad and I built it for all of you.
He's dead, bless his soul.
And you won't visit.
It's good he doesn't know.
I'm going to sell it
and give you some money each.
You can put it in the restaurant.
Don't rely on others.
What about you?
Me?
I'll get by.
I always have.
What else would I do?
You came.
Thank you.
Yes, but I'm leaving.
I'm here to fetch the little one.
My parents want to meet you.
- They do?
- Yes.
I've told them about you.
They want to meet you.
You'll get on well.
Come on...
Come on.
Come with me.
Ian Burley & Sophia Till