The Grand Highway (1987) Movie Script
THE GRAND HIGHWAY
July, 1959
I can use a drink!
Those broads!
They made me thirsty.
That's what they get paid for!
I don't want to go.
Louis! Don't make me repeat
things over and over.
Isn't my little man any
braver than that?
Le Grand Highway!
You sure are late!
In this oven, it's lucky
I can even drive!
Take your lid off!
Did you bring my crates?
Look and see.
Mama, I don't want to go!
Please, Louis, stop it now.
Do you cry when you
go on vacation?
Just think, you'll catch lots
of fish in the river.
3 weeks will go by fast.
And then your mama'll have
a big surprise for you.
I'm not going to abandon you.
He'll get over it. I know,
I've got five!
And you brag about it?
- When do you return?
- At 5:50.
Hasn't even got a beach.
Why can't Papa keep me?
Nice is on the sea.
It's the tourist season now.
He can't even come for the baby.
You shouldn't have it!
It'll be yours too.
You can cuddle him.
I don't want him.
It's his fault...
When I was your age, Marcelle
was my best friend.
She's very nice and
so is her husband.
Is he an old man?
I don't know.
Then how do you know he's nice?
Marcelle said so.
I really doubt that!
Too heavy for you.
Gimme that bag.
Thank you. It's so hot.
You too... You're heavier
than your damn bag!
Gonna live with the Lucases?
It's only a vacation.
Don't wanna go, eh?
Your instinct is sharp.
I've heard enough...
Come on, Louis.
She's a real shrew!
Don't drag your feet.
I don't wanna go. He said
Marcelle's a real shrew.
Don't be silly.
He was kidding you.
Are you drinking water?
Is that pump doing miracles?
Not until it pisses holy wine,
soul-saver!
Here we are.
Anybody home?
You made it!
Must be melting in this heat.
You haven't changed.
So you're Louis.
So big already! What have
you been eating?
Go on, kiss her.
Afraid of red?
You could at least say hello.
We've got time to
get acquainted.
Gotta finish it.
Can't be left in the sun.
I killed it for you.
For your first supper here.
You don't seem happy.
What a face!
He's a bit upset by that...
Of course, a boy from Paris.
Ever see how Mr. Rabbit's
pajamas come off?
Can't make omelets
without breaking eggs!
He loves eggs.
And a bunny won't hop into
a pot by himself.
That's the toilet, in case
you feel the urge.
No, I don't.
Like mother like son!
How you suffered to avoid
using the school toilet.
I used the bushes behind
the chapel.
Where the boys
could see you!
You like that cart,
don't you?
Did Pelo make it?
His only claim to fame.
Too bad he's not here,
I'd like to meet him.
He won't budge from
his workshop.
He could've picked you
up with the truck.
He knew you were coming,
the dog!
Drink that, it's hot.
You're pale as a ghost!
I'm glad you brought him
to me, Claire.
Should've done it sooner.
I thought it'd work out.
It will! And I'll take care
of your little sweetheart.
Feel better now?
Can't you answer?
Forget it. It's a joy
just to see kids eat well.
Now here comes Martine
snooping around.
She's never seen a boy
from Paris close up.
Don't strain your neck, come in!
Have a cookie and take Louis
on a tour of your hideouts.
Go play outdoors.
Don't be fooled, she's not
as smart as she acts!
We want to talk now,
so beat it!
How old are you?
Nine.
I'm 10 1/2 almost.
But up here I'm older.
I'm first in my class,
and without really trying.
Wanna see my secret
observation post?
This way!
What a terrific place!
Come on, climb up!
You can see everything
from here.
Even folks undressing and all!
That's my sister Solange.
Doesn't even wear a bra!
Simon's gonna have fun!
He's her lover.
He's about to go to
war in Algeria.
So you can imagine...!
That's Yvonne, my mother.
A hairdresser?
Sort of. On Saturdays,
she curls old ladies' hair.
You have this secret place
all to yourself?
Yeah, I'm mad at
almost everybody!
I throw slugs from here on
nuns when they bicycle by!
Or even toads if I find any.
- Live ones?
-You bet!
The best time, is when
funerals go by.
Come here.
You've got a front-row view.
It's fun, people cry or
look so mournful.
Others can barely keep
from giggling.
I dunno what to think.
Think of yourself now.
What'll I tell Louis?
I'm worried!
Don't tell him!
He hasn't asked questions,
has he?
- And Pelo?
- He's a carpenter.
Is he nice?
That depends.
When he's on a binge,
he's a mess!
But that doesn't faze
Marcelle a bit.
She's hard as nails.
Is she really a shrew?
- A sprue?
- No, a shrew. Know what that is?
No, but I'll look it up
in the dictionary.
Everything's in it.
Know what gonorrhea is?
I bet you don't!
It's the clap!
I know that.
Martine! Bring Louis back!
His mother's leaving!
He's already so busy he wouldn't
notice if you left.
I love you, darling.
I'll soon write you
a big long letter.
And will Papa write me too?
If he has time... Take care
of him, Martine.
Sure! I've already shown
him lots of things.
Simon will drive you
to the bus stop.
Thank you, Marcelle.
Everything will be O.K.
Now don't be late.
Ready to go?
I have to go now. Be a good
boy with Marcelle.
If not, I'll turn him
over to Pelo!
Wanna play cards?
Not now, we've got work to do.
Break the stems off clean.
Don't yank 'em off!
Pick only the red ones.
If one makes your mouth water,
gobble it up!
Look at this big one!
Go on, eat it!
Tastes nice and warm.
You'll see now nice it is
to live in the country.
Was it good?
It's that man!
It's just Pelo. Not exactly
pleasant, but don't worry.
He sure is nervous.
What did you do to scare him?
Nothing! We haven't even
met, have we?
Relax. He won't eat you!
He's just a bit rough.
Not like Marcelle who loves kids...
and rabbits!
Aren't you eating?
Isn't it good?
I'm not hungry.
Maybe he doesn't like dead meat.
Never mind, have a big
helping of dessert.
That goes down easy.
Hello, folks.
Hi, Hippolyte.
You were gonna go drink
alone, you rat!
I got nobody at home
to guzzle with.
I can fix that!
There you go!
If you come home loaded,
don't wake us up!
At last, some peace and quiet!
Don't let him spoil your appetite.
He's not mean, just dumb.
Who's Hippolyte?
The grave digger.
He became a lush after
he buried his wife.
So you've got a kid now?
One more thing she found
to bug me with!
Hello, boys!
This was Grandma Pelo's room.
Afraid she'll see you?
She doesn't care!
Where is she?
She sleeps out there.
I was glad when she
crossed over!
She was an old skunk too.
Don't mind what I say, it's
all in the past now.
You'll sleep like a log
in that feather bed.
It's warm out, so I'll leave
the window open.
I forgot to go pee.
Doesn't matter,
you've got a pot.
Don't have to be
afraid of him!
Are you back in my bed now?
Did you change your mind?
Or is the crib too small?
True, he is too big for it.
Look, Pelo, you can hurt
me all you like!
But if you're mean to that boy,
I swear I'll...!
Save your breath.
If only a storm would come,
so we could breathe.
Don't cover up your peter!
Soap's not gonna sting
its eye!
You sure made a lotta
noise last night!
Our "neighbors" turned
over in their holes!
He had a nightmare because
of the storm.
You bet!
Now! You're clean as a whistle!
He's not likely to
eat rabbit again!
He managed to make
us late after all.
No shoes? Just like a gypsy!
Yes, I'm a beggar!
So the Son of Man departed
this world
as it was written.
He offered His life to the
people who rejected Him,
but He trusted in the Father,
intent on doing His will.
He knew
that the Father's aim
was the salvation of mankind.
Through Him, all was
to be reborn.
And since He obeyed
even unto death,
God exalted Him and
made him Lord
and Redeemer of the universe.
Through Him, His Kingdom
was born.
And to the repentent thief,
He promised His Kingdom,
and to all men who
believe in Him.
Falling asleep in church!
I'll teach you!
You'll take a nap after lunch.
Have a nice day!
Is that the boy from Paris?
Do you like being in Rouans?
Maybe not. He fell asleep
during mass.
Our priest rambles on so.
I didn't understand a word.
If he'd use wine only
for mass...
Give me something
to wake him up.
What kind of meat do
you like, boy?
Fish.
Did you really make this?
It's beautiful.
He won't let anyone touch it.
Here! All the pieces
can be taken apart.
It's put together
like a real cart.
May I play with it?
I'm giving it to you!
Take it out into the garden.
Stuffy in here.
Louis, take your Sunday
clothes off first.
Even if Marcelle kills you,
I won't ever eat you.
I'll go get some more.
Did you like going to mass?
You're lucky not to
have to go.
If Pelo sees you with his cart,
you'll get hell!
I didn't steal it,
he gave it to me.
He sure must like you.
He never let me touch it.
Help me. Pick the smallest ones.
They like them best.
Sure, they're yummier!
What does your father do?
He's a head waiter.
He works in Nice. I don't
see him much.
Just like mine.
Is he a head waiter too?
No, he drives a tourist bus.
So he's never at home.
Maybe they know each other.
Does he drive to Nice?
No, only to the Loire Valley.
That's enough.
May I borrow the cart?
What'll you give me?
I'll teach you karate.
It's better than judo.
My father learned it
in Indochina.
You can knock over Marcelle's
shithouse with one hand!
Don't you dare or I'll
warm your behind!
My beans!
You little rascal!
The small ones too!
Was that your idea?
No, I thought you told
him to pick 'em.
I'm confiscating the
cart and all.
What did she do now?
No, for once it was Louis.
Look, my beans!
How do they get such ideas?
She even giggles!
How I hate that!
I'm busy at Dede's tomorrow.
Will you watch Louis?
I can't. I'm taking
Martine to Nantes.
To the doctor? Why?
For her flat feet. She always
takes her shoes off.
I can always take Louis along.
No, Pelo'll watch him, since
they get along so well.
Shoes... Lucky she doesn't
take something else off!
Are my beans good, anyway?
Not even expensive canned
beans are that good.
Don't you like the
cart anymore?
Yes, but...
You watch him tomorrow.
We can manage...
man to man.
Is that my newspaper?
Louis, take the bread
back to the bread bin.
Drunk again.
I don't blame you. The monthly
rag is an ugly mess.
Is that blood?
Just about.
That's where we come from.
We never really get out!
Whatever we do,
everything pulls us
back to the womb!
You'll see.
What was he saying to you?
You didn't find the bin?
Pelo said it's an ugly mess.
It's normal. My mama and
my sister have monthlies too.
Solange told me I'd
soon have mine also.
What are they for?
So you'll know if you're
expecting or not.
If you get 'em once a month,
there's no baby!
If not, you're stuck!
You mean you can get
a baby every month?
I guess so.
Come and wash your feet!
We'll miss the bus!
What a bore!
What's wrong?
She wants to buy me shoes
cripples wear!
If she thinks I'll wear 'em,
she's out of her mind!
Is it smooth?
Is it smooth?
You bet it is!
As smooth as an angel's behind!
Will you teach me?
I haven't got time.
Just watch and you'll
know a lot already.
And she has to work?
Her husband keeps changing jobs,
"forgets" to send money.
She can't raise a kid alone.
And she'll soon have two.
What work does she do?
She's a typist in Paris.
Too bad. She was so talented.
For what?
For drawing, although
I'm no judge.
Could've been a painter.
When you have kids...!
What's the boy like?
He's cute, but as nervous
as a girl.
Are you keeping up
the pace, my sweets?
Who plucks your feathers,
you rooster!
That's all for today.
Is the boat finished?
Nearly.
Don't forget your cart.
May I keep the pieces
of wood in it?
Of course.
I'll be a carpenter
some day.
And you won't be as dumb
as Pelo, thank God!
Hurry up or Marcelle will
bawl us out.
Does she talk about me?
I don't remember.
Didn't she say I was mean?
What do you think?
Am I mean or not?
I don't know.
Yet it was my fault you had
bad dreams the first night.
But forget all that now.
I don't know much
about children.
So I'm a bit wary at first.
Just like you.
What's the clap?
Did you have a snack?
Should've taken a snack
along for him.
You must never let
kids go hungry.
Poor Louis, you must be starving.
No, I had fun.
But that's not enough.
Come shopping with me.
I'll buy you a pastry.
How is your wine?
Come on in and see.
Is there a beach here?
No, she's going to the graveyard.
It's her mania.
Is she crazy?
All she can think of
is her grief.
Everybody in bed now.
Good night, honey.
Maybe your little brother'll
knock on the door tomorrow.
Maybe it'll be a girl.
What do you want, a brother
or a sister?
It doesn't matter.
Anyway, it's God who
decides that.
Does it hurt when a
baby comes out?
Don't you worry.
The second one's easy as pie!
Anybody home?
What do you want?
It's not for me!
It's Pelo.
O.K. I get it. Where is he?
He couldn't get past the pump.
I tried, but he's too heavy.
Too drunk, you mean. Now get
home before you drop.
The bastard's heavy!
There you are.
You still love me enough
to do this?
Get up!
I knew it! Good kind Marcelle.
She doesn't help the
drunk out of kindness.
It's only because she's ashamed!
But I am not ashamed.
I'm not ashamed!
Heavy, aren't I?
God helps those who
help themselves!
Help her!
No, God won't help you!
"For better or for worse"!
After that, work
it out yourself!
Get up!
We've already had the
worst, dammit!
Shit, let's have some
of the better!
Let's do it in the wheelbarrow!
You bitch! You bitch!
He can sleep on the floor.
I'll get you!
Shit, it's red.
I'll get you yet!
Open up!
Open up!
There you are.
What luck!
I bet I can make you
come out, you bitch!
We need air in here!
It stinks!
Get out of there!
Gotta destroy this!
Get out of here!
Stop it!
Stop it, I beg you!
Wreck the museum!
Out with the relics!
You have no right!
You bastard!
I have a right to destroy
what I made!
You have no right!
I've got you now, you bitch!
Go on! I'm fed up with life
with you! Strangle me!
You'd like that, but that's
not what I want!
This is my right too!
Just ask your priest!
Don't get too much sun,
you'll get sick.
Stay in the shade now
and drink some water.
Come on and play.
No cripple shoes?
No way! I hide 'em
when I go outdoors.
Why does she always take a
rake to the graveyard?
To scratch her husband's belly!
Wanna see?
Why?
It's fun to see pictures
of dead folks! Let's go.
Not like this.
Dummy! No one'll see you.
He's funny with his mustache.
Looks like a president.
How did he die?
He drowned in the Loire with
his son before the war.
But they only found him.
She goes to the Loire often.
She watches all day hoping
her son'll come out.
Did they go to the Loire to swim?
No, they went night fishing
with a lantern.
A tugboat didn't see them.
And bang! It split their
boat in two.
Did they sink?
Obviously!
They found him 3 days later
covered with civelles!
Coming out of his nose
and even his eyes!
Civelles'll eat anything.
What are civelles?
Idiot! They're baby eels.
Like maggots. With little
black eyes.
They're awfully good
in salad dressing.
- Wanna taste 'em?
- I sure don't!
At least come and look at 'em.
What are you getting
into the fridge?
Just to show Louis
the civelles!
They're still wiggling.
They refuse to die.
Come on! They won't
jump on you.
Come on, I said!
See their eyes?
Yes, I see 'em.
No you don't!
Gotta get closer.
Look how funny they are.
You little bitch!
Stop all that noise!
What did you do to him?
Nothing! He was scared
of the civelles!
I saw your "civelle"!
Pelo's back!
Run for shelter!...
It's
me!
Was that the doc heading
for the rest home?
It was a Peugeot.
Smells like death.
If the priest is next, I'll be
making a coffin tomorrow.
There he goes.
What did I tell you?
Hi, everybody!
Do you bury 'em before
they die now?
I just saw the priest
chasing the doctor.
I wanna dig while it's cool.
I won't start the
pine box yet.
Those nuns still owe me for 2.
Better pay or I'll use plywood.
I gotta dig before it gets dark.
Then run along.
Conniving nuns!
- Who's gonna die?
- An old woman.
- Why is she dying?
- She's very old.
Nonsense!
If they'd left Pauline
in her home...
... she'd be alive and kicking now.
Those nuns made her
take a short cut.
Guess who'll get the house?!
It's your bedtime. I'll
bring the potty up.
Don't bug him with that pot.
Gotta learn to piss like a man!
Against a wall!
Hit it and you're
ready for girls!
Not too close, Louis!
Hot walls attract snakes!
Is that true?
Don't worry,
the "snake" is back there!
Heck, I almost hit it.
You'll manage some day.
There's no hurry.
What'll we give Pauline,
yellow or white ones?
Golden ones!
Golden ones then.
Is it real gold?
Of course.
If you steal my handles,
you can go live in America
like an oil king!
It's not gold, it's brash.
You mean brass.
Why are there so many
dead folks here?
No more than anywhere else.
But in Paris, nobody notices.
Gotta keep the metro
running, see?
Here, they have time to see
others die before they do.
They can get used to the idea.
And the day they go
into the hole,
they know the guy who dug it,
and the people around 'em.
Aren't they mad at Hippolyte?
Not a bit!
They know he won't stick 'em
beside the wrong people...
And make it as bad as before.
He won't put the husband
next to the lover.
And Hippolyte's turn
will come too.
I'm scared of that graveyard.
No need to be.
It's nicer than crowded
city ones.
Here, even if you've got
dirt over your face,
there's room to breathe!
Then will you leave holes?
No, I don't plan to.
Get out or I'll nail you inside!
You're about to have
babies too.
Are you scared?
Not a bit! That's all
she ever does.
Get lost! You're mean!
It was just a joke.
Come on and play.
Not with a girl ever!
You'll have to! I gotta
take care of you...
... while Marcelle's at the funeral.
The handles are brass.
I know. Mama has the same
ones on her dresser.
Come on!
Not much of a funeral.
Once they buried a guy
whose head was cut off!
On the guillotine?
He was on a motorcycle behind
a truck that lost a sheet of glass.
But he stayed on and even...
... passed the truck!
The driver fainted
when he saw no head!
Liar. That can't be true.
Just like a chicken
with its head cut off!
I don't believe you.
O.K., but the story about
the civelles was true.
Come here! Your father's
on the phone!
At least admit it!
You sneak around!
You're cunning!
Like a big spider
about to pounce!
I know you only too well!
You're going nuts.
That's it, tell everybody I'm
going mad! You'd like that.
No, stay here and listen
to what I have to say!
I know it all by heart!
When you saw he liked me, you
did your best to spoil it!
You're not his mother.
Almost! Claire is like a sister.
You go to the graveyard
too often. Louis is alive!
Alive!
One more thing:
stop bugging him with
your religious crap!
The rumor is he hasn't
even been baptized!
And I'm taking him fishing
next Sunday!
He hurt your feelings?
Certainly not!
He has done everything
he can to hurt me.
But it stopped hurting
me long ago.
Are you crying?
Certainly not! It's just
a runny nose.
You're crying.
No! But I'm gonna peel
onions and that
makes my eyes water.
Now go out and play!
Or your eyes will be
running too!
Did you catch a lot of frogs?
With legs bigger than the ones
on your boy there!
Where were you hiding them?
He sure has grown fast!
Gotta hurry, I got lines out.
Run along then!
Is she a tramp?
No, I bet Froggy Mary's got
a mattress full of millions...
after 50 years of selling 'em
to all the restaurants.
Can you eat frogs?
Only the legs, but
they're fabulous!
She thought you were my father.
She's lived alone in swamps
so long she's senile.
More fun than mass.
It sure is.
You're like me, you don't
believe all that stuff.
Heaven's nice though,
for people who are dead.
Maybe not. Imagine the whole
town on vacation up there!
On only bread and water!
I'd prefer hell on earth
or even Hell itself!
Hell is where
the best broads are,
who can't get enough!
They ruin your health,
but never your nerves!
But talking won't make
the fish bite.
Maybe that's it. You said
not to talk.
Right, I open my big
mouth too often.
Let's try another spot.
You wish Marcelle
was like that?
Like what?
"Can't get enough, "
like you said.
She used to be once.
When we first met, we had
lots of fun.
We'd go dancing. Then we came
home in the truck.
The same one?
Yeah, it was brand new.
We were often in such a hurry
we pulled over to the side.
To kiss?
Yeah, to kiss!
And pretty soon,
we were out in the daisies
or under the tarp.
On the ground?
You'll find out.
With hay under you
and stars above, the world
can be beautiful!
How did Jean-Pierre die?
Did Marcelle tell you?
No, I saw her go to his grave.
He was to be born
a few days after you.
And he wasn't born?
A birth isn't always easy.
We had only one old doctor.
It was done at home then.
No one went to hospitals.
And so he died?
Is that why Marcelle's
always mad at you?
For that and all the rest.
Grown-ups have problems.
It's not easy, you know.
That's enough fishing
for today.
Or we'll miss the bicycle
race results.
Let's go!
I caught two.
But Pelo caught the big ones.
Don't expect me
to clean them!
Why? Don't you like fish?
Yvonne'll take care
of him tomorrow.
Come on, we'll clean
'em ourselves.
I'll tell you the rest.
Marcelle almost died
afterwards!
A nun gave her injections
3 times a day.
When she got well,
she didn't want to with
Pelo anymore. No way!
I heard my mother tell Solange.
Didn't want to what?
How stupid you are!
She didn't want sex anymore!
- Really?
-You bet!
Don't complain if you get sick!
They're not ripe.
Don't complain if you get a baby!
I know where you're going!
She can't tell on me.
She knows I'll get even.
- Where's she going?
- To pick "mushrooms"!
We've got enough now.
We'll never eat 'em all.
Dirty boy! Why do you always
stare at my pants?
I don't. You keep showing them.
Liar! I saw you when
I was in the tree.
Admit it, you're curious.
You've never seen a girl's
wee-wee, I bet!
Yes I have.
I bet you haven't!
Want me to show you?
-Yours?
- Are you kidding?
Come and see!
Free of charge!
Promise not to tell a soul!
Take off your sandals.
Wait a second.
Now do you see what Marcelle
won't do with Pelo anymore?
Why does Solange do it if
it hurts that much?
You moron! It doesn't hurt her,
it feels good!
She loves it so much
she can't stand it!
"Oh! Yes! Don't stop!"
I think you need to come
to confession.
Why didn't you come
to mass yesterday?
Pelo took me fishing.
Will you save your soul
by catching sunfish?
Be there next Sunday.
Shit, I didn't see him coming!
But God sees you!
Do we have a soul?
That's all hooey!
I don't care, I'm a Buddhist!
God has nothing on me...
I go to church once a week!
I go to heaven when I like!
Do you believe me?
If you're brave, I'll prove it!
When no one's here, sometimes
I play with 2 fingers.
Don't touch, those things
make an awful racket.
Come on!
Come on!
My shorts!
You're lucky it didn't
go up your hole!
Are you coming?
Did that nun see us?
Heck no, she only wakes
up for meals!
Look at the bell!
It's awfully big.
Up this way.
Go slow or you'll
break your neck!
Go ahead, it's safe.
You're gonna be amazed!
Come on!
It's awfully high.
We're only halfway up!
They started some repairs,
and they left the ladder.
So we can go all the way!
I'm not going.
Fraidy cat! I've been clear up
... to the cross. It's easy!
It's flat. All you do is
walk like a sleepwalker.
No, we'll break out necks.
If a girl can do it,
you can't chicken out!
But you're 10 years old.
Come on or I'll go down the other
side and leave you up here!
What's wrong? Don't be
a scairdy cat!
I got a tummy ache.
That's the apples.
Hurry up or you'll
shit in your pants!
Haven't we got a nice view
up here in heaven?
The ocean's there,
but we can't see it.
I'd like to go there.
Have you ever been?
Only once and it was
raining pitchforks!
Shall we go down now?
Don't chicken out! We said
we'd go to the cross.
Look, it's easy.
Meet me at the cross.
Do like me. Don't look
down or else... splattt!
-You left them alone?!
- I'm going shopping.
Don't worry, they're
under the apple trees.
Those green apples'll give
'em the runs!
They're already thick
as thieves.
You're almost there.
Keep going slowly.
Grab my hand!
See how easy it is.
Look, Solange has
finished with Simon.
She'll go home looking as
innocent as the Virgin!
I wanna go home too.
No, pee into the gargoyle first
or it doesn't count!
- Pee where?
- There! It's fun!
It sprays out down below.
O.K. but then don't watch.
O.K. I've seen your weeny
already, anyway.
Oh! Sweet Jesus!
Tearing your pants just to
climb trees and get sick.
You won't play over
there anymore!
Are you yelling at
the outhouse now?
Martine fed him apples,
now he's got the runs.
That's better than a broken leg,
so shut up!
So you defend him now!
You can come out,
she's gone now.
That'll teach you to show
off in front of girls!
Careful or they'll hook you!
I need it before he leaves.
Don't worry, you'll be beautiful.
Try on the skirt.
It's too long.
Make up your mind.
He won't even notice when
he yanks it off!
He understood that.
Nonsense! Not at his age...
A letter! I think
it's for the boy.
Louis, it's from your mama.
"Dear Marcelle and
my darling Louis.
"I'm fine, but with
this heat wave,
"I wish the baby was
already here. "
Poor Claire. It's hard
enough as it is.
Isn't the baby out yet?
I'm getting to that.
"He kicks a lot and I have
to lie down often...
... because of the contractions.
They've stopped now. "
Your little brother wants
some fresh air!
What are contractions?
I'll explain later.
"I can't write any more now.
"I have to go buy things
I'll need in the hospital. "
The hospital?
The maternity ward.
"I hope Louis isn't too
much work... " This is for me...
"I'm enclosing a postcard
from Papa. "
Let me see it.
Let me finish:
"He works hard, but he thinks
of you a lot, Louis,
"and he sends you his love
along with mine. "
There's nothing on it.
What do you mean?
Either he forgot or he
sent the wrong card.
The same thing happened to me.
It's not from Papa!
Yes it is! Look, there's
an X on the hotel.
He must work there.
Sure, and that's his room
where the X is.
I know that card. I saw
it last year!
What are you talking about?
It was in our buffet drawer!
Mama put it in the letter
to make me believe that.
Where'd you get that idea?
You're a liar! You're a liar!
He's far away by now.
I just couldn't stop myself!
Let it go! Martine'll comfort him.
I believe I hit him too hard.
When I think of all
the slaps I got...!
I was about to make rabbit.
Better change the menu.
I can still see the marks.
Mama says that helps
the circulation.
Yours must be going wild!
Forget it. Marcelle must
feel worse than you.
I don't mind her.
That's not it.
It's your father?
Mine's the same way. One day
he just walked out!
Mama told me he was travelling...
... but I knew it was
a fib all along.
Is he gone for good?
You bet! He ran away with
a salesgirl in town.
But she spends all his dough.
So it must be the same
with your father!
Can't be. My father's
not like that.
Says you! Old men are
all like that.
They see a girl's ass
and... bing!
They ditch the old lady!
Can't be! My father's not old!
And Mama's much prettier
than a salesgirl!
Maybe they don't love
each other anymore.
It's better than fighting
like Marcelle and Pelo.
It's not true!
He didn't run away!
You're a big liar!
Come back! I only said
that to tease you!
Your snack's ready, Louis!
What is this? What have you done?
Come here, you hoodlum!
Come out! I know you're
hiding in there!
Come out or I'll go buy a whip!
I'm gonna get mad!
I'll sell them all to the butcher!
You'll like it when he
makes pt out of 'em!
O.K. they'll be pt!
Never mind!
You! Are you hiding him then?
No, he ran away,
that's all I know!
What for? Because I slapped him?
No, it's his father!
Why? What'd he say to you?
He's scared his father ran
off and left his mother!
You haven't found him?
Martine says he ran away.
Did you see Louis on the road?
No, what's wrong?
- He ran away.
- He was crying like crazy.
We'll go look for him!
Maybe he's in the
shop with Pelo.
Go look and bring Pelo!
What's going on?
I can't fix it!
Louis ran away because of his
father and Marcelle slapped him.
What're you saying?
You gotta come quick!
Louis, answer me, honey!...
Where can he be?
- He's not with you?
- No!
Well?
Can't you see he's
not with me?
We gotta find him fast!
Maybe he's hiding just
to bug you!
Why did you slap him?
I'll explain later!
Take the truck...
... and go see if he went
to catch the bus!
It's busted! I'm trying
to fix it!
We'll use my car.
You go alone. People must've
seen him. I'll go ask around.
Me too! I know all the hide-outs!
I'll go phone from Yvonne's!
They wouldn't let him take
the 6 o'clock bus.
They wouldn't let him on.
He might talk the
driver into it.
Blessed hay fever!
First time I ever saw you two
run to the church!
This is no time to joke.
Louis ran away!
Have you seen him?
Answer me, have you seen him?
He's up there!
He peed into the gargoyle
to get us wet!
Nonsense!
I showed him how! He's up there,
1 tell you!
He couldn't get up there!
How do you get up there?
I'll show you!
Over the holy water and up!
I see.
But this is locked.
That won't stop 'em!
Run and get Marcelle.
No, I'm going up too!
I'm going to get my keys.
She gave birth to a boy.
That's one less worry.
- Was that a nurse?
- Yes, thank God!
Oh God, if ever...
I did it! I found him!
He's on the roof!
So there you are.
Some acrobat you are!
Did Martine show you
that gargoyle trick?
Pretty good aim. You almost
baptized the priest!
Stay there.
I'll move the ladder.
Wait there, I'll come
up after you.
Go away! I'm not coming down!
You really feel bad,
don't you?
Up there! By the cross!
Don't yell!
Why isn't Pelo there?
Maybe he got dizzy!
Did you run away because
Marcelle slapped you?
I don't care about that!
Or Marcelle either!
I hate you all!
I hate you all!
Don't say that... Don't move!
You know, Marcelle and I
really enjoy having you.
That's not true! You quarrel
all the time!
You're mean, both of you!
Don't go that way!
Stop, Louis, or you'll fall!
I don't care if I fall!
It'll serve Papa right!
Louis, come back!
If Mama dies having the baby,
I'll be with her.
I'll be with Mama.
He fell into the gutter!
Call an ambulance,
maybe he's injured!
There's Pelo!
I found the keys at last!
Are you O.K. ?
Answer me! Are you hurt?
My rabbit...?
A fine time to ask that.
I don't think he's hurt!
We're coming to get him!
Well, doctor?
Nothing. A few scratches.
He's a pretty lucky boy!
A real miracle,
wouldn't you say?
Not a miracle, but a little help,
that's sure!
Anyway, it calls for a drink!
Let me prescribe
some wine, doctor!
Usually I do the prescribing!
I could use a drink too,
after a fright like that!
Guess who came while you
were scaring us to death?
The firemen?
No, silly! Your little brother!
They phoned. He's fine and so's
your mama. Are you happy?
What's his name?
Michel... like the cookies!
Beat it! Haven't you done
enough for one day?
I want her to stay with me.
Not for long.
I'll get you some broth.
You skunk, you sure
did scare us!
Were you afraid?
You bet! If you'd died,
they'd have blamed me!
See? I was brave enough to
go pee into the gargoyle alone.
You did even better than me!
You used the roof for a slide!
Did he fall asleep?
After what happened, all you
could do was go to a bar!
But am I drunk?
The priest gave us some holy wine.
He says it's a miracle!
But he couldn't have found
smaller glasses!
Don't be sacrilegious
Poor Marcelle. You should dance
a jig to know he's alive.
If your God did help to save him...
... He doesn't deserve your
mouth any more than I do...
... and so now good night.
But what if he'd been killed?!
That's just it, he wasn't!
He almost died and I
should dance a jig!
But he's alive!
And he'll stay alive if people like
you don't make him unhappy.
I'd have died if he had fallen!
Will you stop it.
Stop it.
You're crying over yourself.
You keep carrying your cross!
You must actually enjoy it!
Unless it's just to
make me miserable.
What about me?
Do you think...?
What are you doing
up, sweetheart?
I can't get to sleep.
You'll have to try.
Go back to bed.
I want to stay with you two.
I see how it is.
Come here, son.
You need some herb tea.
Stay here! That's not
what he needs!
You didn't like being alone
in Grandma's room?
May I turn out the light?
When is Mama coming for me?
As soon as she gets out of
the clinic with the baby.
Now it's your turn to
sleep like a baby.
If Pelo doesn't snore.
What time is it?
Are you in a hurry to leave us?
I don't blame you.
Give her time.
Do you think she's
on the way now?
Has been for hours.
I bet she's as eager as you are.
What're you doing?
I can't leave it like this.
I gotta go out on a job,
so Simon'll pick Claire up.
You'll never meet her!
Ought to be able to fix this.
Better use it for kindling.
Go see Louis before
you leave.
Else he'll be unhappy.
Why is our tomboy so sad?
Is it because vacation's
almost over?
It's because your shoes hurt.
Go tell Louis good-bye.
Mind you own business!
You look so glum. Come on,
kiss me, sweet pea.
I'm going away too. To war.
And I may not come back.
I don't like to hear
you say that.
Yeah, but who knows how
this mess'll end?
With a wedding!
Oh, there you are.
- What're you making?
- Not soda pop, that's for sure!
Is it wine?
You bet! I'll add rum
to make it 30 proof!
- So you can get drunk?
- What do you care?
I came to say good-bye.
Well, I have to go now.
We gotta go catch the bus.
- Will you come back?
- I don't know.
Then you're a dumbbell.
Good-byes aren't easy...
Well, let's try...
Le Grand Chemin!
Be very good to Mama, kiss
your little brother...
... and remember to send postcards
to Marcelle and Pelo.
- Even with mistakes?
- Even lots of 'em!
- I'll send a picture of the baby.
- Yes, please.
Get in, Louis.
See? Your vacation wasn't
as bad as all that!
- Going to Nantes?
-Yes.
Thank you again.
Don't mention it.
Shall I bring Pelo's "assistant"
back next year?
Yeah, now beat it!
They're in the bus now?
Started smoking again?
He forgot his cart.
I'm just dumb!
I can't help it!
That's it, have a good cry.
English Version
Bruce Lowery
Duncan Taylor, September 2004
July, 1959
I can use a drink!
Those broads!
They made me thirsty.
That's what they get paid for!
I don't want to go.
Louis! Don't make me repeat
things over and over.
Isn't my little man any
braver than that?
Le Grand Highway!
You sure are late!
In this oven, it's lucky
I can even drive!
Take your lid off!
Did you bring my crates?
Look and see.
Mama, I don't want to go!
Please, Louis, stop it now.
Do you cry when you
go on vacation?
Just think, you'll catch lots
of fish in the river.
3 weeks will go by fast.
And then your mama'll have
a big surprise for you.
I'm not going to abandon you.
He'll get over it. I know,
I've got five!
And you brag about it?
- When do you return?
- At 5:50.
Hasn't even got a beach.
Why can't Papa keep me?
Nice is on the sea.
It's the tourist season now.
He can't even come for the baby.
You shouldn't have it!
It'll be yours too.
You can cuddle him.
I don't want him.
It's his fault...
When I was your age, Marcelle
was my best friend.
She's very nice and
so is her husband.
Is he an old man?
I don't know.
Then how do you know he's nice?
Marcelle said so.
I really doubt that!
Too heavy for you.
Gimme that bag.
Thank you. It's so hot.
You too... You're heavier
than your damn bag!
Gonna live with the Lucases?
It's only a vacation.
Don't wanna go, eh?
Your instinct is sharp.
I've heard enough...
Come on, Louis.
She's a real shrew!
Don't drag your feet.
I don't wanna go. He said
Marcelle's a real shrew.
Don't be silly.
He was kidding you.
Are you drinking water?
Is that pump doing miracles?
Not until it pisses holy wine,
soul-saver!
Here we are.
Anybody home?
You made it!
Must be melting in this heat.
You haven't changed.
So you're Louis.
So big already! What have
you been eating?
Go on, kiss her.
Afraid of red?
You could at least say hello.
We've got time to
get acquainted.
Gotta finish it.
Can't be left in the sun.
I killed it for you.
For your first supper here.
You don't seem happy.
What a face!
He's a bit upset by that...
Of course, a boy from Paris.
Ever see how Mr. Rabbit's
pajamas come off?
Can't make omelets
without breaking eggs!
He loves eggs.
And a bunny won't hop into
a pot by himself.
That's the toilet, in case
you feel the urge.
No, I don't.
Like mother like son!
How you suffered to avoid
using the school toilet.
I used the bushes behind
the chapel.
Where the boys
could see you!
You like that cart,
don't you?
Did Pelo make it?
His only claim to fame.
Too bad he's not here,
I'd like to meet him.
He won't budge from
his workshop.
He could've picked you
up with the truck.
He knew you were coming,
the dog!
Drink that, it's hot.
You're pale as a ghost!
I'm glad you brought him
to me, Claire.
Should've done it sooner.
I thought it'd work out.
It will! And I'll take care
of your little sweetheart.
Feel better now?
Can't you answer?
Forget it. It's a joy
just to see kids eat well.
Now here comes Martine
snooping around.
She's never seen a boy
from Paris close up.
Don't strain your neck, come in!
Have a cookie and take Louis
on a tour of your hideouts.
Go play outdoors.
Don't be fooled, she's not
as smart as she acts!
We want to talk now,
so beat it!
How old are you?
Nine.
I'm 10 1/2 almost.
But up here I'm older.
I'm first in my class,
and without really trying.
Wanna see my secret
observation post?
This way!
What a terrific place!
Come on, climb up!
You can see everything
from here.
Even folks undressing and all!
That's my sister Solange.
Doesn't even wear a bra!
Simon's gonna have fun!
He's her lover.
He's about to go to
war in Algeria.
So you can imagine...!
That's Yvonne, my mother.
A hairdresser?
Sort of. On Saturdays,
she curls old ladies' hair.
You have this secret place
all to yourself?
Yeah, I'm mad at
almost everybody!
I throw slugs from here on
nuns when they bicycle by!
Or even toads if I find any.
- Live ones?
-You bet!
The best time, is when
funerals go by.
Come here.
You've got a front-row view.
It's fun, people cry or
look so mournful.
Others can barely keep
from giggling.
I dunno what to think.
Think of yourself now.
What'll I tell Louis?
I'm worried!
Don't tell him!
He hasn't asked questions,
has he?
- And Pelo?
- He's a carpenter.
Is he nice?
That depends.
When he's on a binge,
he's a mess!
But that doesn't faze
Marcelle a bit.
She's hard as nails.
Is she really a shrew?
- A sprue?
- No, a shrew. Know what that is?
No, but I'll look it up
in the dictionary.
Everything's in it.
Know what gonorrhea is?
I bet you don't!
It's the clap!
I know that.
Martine! Bring Louis back!
His mother's leaving!
He's already so busy he wouldn't
notice if you left.
I love you, darling.
I'll soon write you
a big long letter.
And will Papa write me too?
If he has time... Take care
of him, Martine.
Sure! I've already shown
him lots of things.
Simon will drive you
to the bus stop.
Thank you, Marcelle.
Everything will be O.K.
Now don't be late.
Ready to go?
I have to go now. Be a good
boy with Marcelle.
If not, I'll turn him
over to Pelo!
Wanna play cards?
Not now, we've got work to do.
Break the stems off clean.
Don't yank 'em off!
Pick only the red ones.
If one makes your mouth water,
gobble it up!
Look at this big one!
Go on, eat it!
Tastes nice and warm.
You'll see now nice it is
to live in the country.
Was it good?
It's that man!
It's just Pelo. Not exactly
pleasant, but don't worry.
He sure is nervous.
What did you do to scare him?
Nothing! We haven't even
met, have we?
Relax. He won't eat you!
He's just a bit rough.
Not like Marcelle who loves kids...
and rabbits!
Aren't you eating?
Isn't it good?
I'm not hungry.
Maybe he doesn't like dead meat.
Never mind, have a big
helping of dessert.
That goes down easy.
Hello, folks.
Hi, Hippolyte.
You were gonna go drink
alone, you rat!
I got nobody at home
to guzzle with.
I can fix that!
There you go!
If you come home loaded,
don't wake us up!
At last, some peace and quiet!
Don't let him spoil your appetite.
He's not mean, just dumb.
Who's Hippolyte?
The grave digger.
He became a lush after
he buried his wife.
So you've got a kid now?
One more thing she found
to bug me with!
Hello, boys!
This was Grandma Pelo's room.
Afraid she'll see you?
She doesn't care!
Where is she?
She sleeps out there.
I was glad when she
crossed over!
She was an old skunk too.
Don't mind what I say, it's
all in the past now.
You'll sleep like a log
in that feather bed.
It's warm out, so I'll leave
the window open.
I forgot to go pee.
Doesn't matter,
you've got a pot.
Don't have to be
afraid of him!
Are you back in my bed now?
Did you change your mind?
Or is the crib too small?
True, he is too big for it.
Look, Pelo, you can hurt
me all you like!
But if you're mean to that boy,
I swear I'll...!
Save your breath.
If only a storm would come,
so we could breathe.
Don't cover up your peter!
Soap's not gonna sting
its eye!
You sure made a lotta
noise last night!
Our "neighbors" turned
over in their holes!
He had a nightmare because
of the storm.
You bet!
Now! You're clean as a whistle!
He's not likely to
eat rabbit again!
He managed to make
us late after all.
No shoes? Just like a gypsy!
Yes, I'm a beggar!
So the Son of Man departed
this world
as it was written.
He offered His life to the
people who rejected Him,
but He trusted in the Father,
intent on doing His will.
He knew
that the Father's aim
was the salvation of mankind.
Through Him, all was
to be reborn.
And since He obeyed
even unto death,
God exalted Him and
made him Lord
and Redeemer of the universe.
Through Him, His Kingdom
was born.
And to the repentent thief,
He promised His Kingdom,
and to all men who
believe in Him.
Falling asleep in church!
I'll teach you!
You'll take a nap after lunch.
Have a nice day!
Is that the boy from Paris?
Do you like being in Rouans?
Maybe not. He fell asleep
during mass.
Our priest rambles on so.
I didn't understand a word.
If he'd use wine only
for mass...
Give me something
to wake him up.
What kind of meat do
you like, boy?
Fish.
Did you really make this?
It's beautiful.
He won't let anyone touch it.
Here! All the pieces
can be taken apart.
It's put together
like a real cart.
May I play with it?
I'm giving it to you!
Take it out into the garden.
Stuffy in here.
Louis, take your Sunday
clothes off first.
Even if Marcelle kills you,
I won't ever eat you.
I'll go get some more.
Did you like going to mass?
You're lucky not to
have to go.
If Pelo sees you with his cart,
you'll get hell!
I didn't steal it,
he gave it to me.
He sure must like you.
He never let me touch it.
Help me. Pick the smallest ones.
They like them best.
Sure, they're yummier!
What does your father do?
He's a head waiter.
He works in Nice. I don't
see him much.
Just like mine.
Is he a head waiter too?
No, he drives a tourist bus.
So he's never at home.
Maybe they know each other.
Does he drive to Nice?
No, only to the Loire Valley.
That's enough.
May I borrow the cart?
What'll you give me?
I'll teach you karate.
It's better than judo.
My father learned it
in Indochina.
You can knock over Marcelle's
shithouse with one hand!
Don't you dare or I'll
warm your behind!
My beans!
You little rascal!
The small ones too!
Was that your idea?
No, I thought you told
him to pick 'em.
I'm confiscating the
cart and all.
What did she do now?
No, for once it was Louis.
Look, my beans!
How do they get such ideas?
She even giggles!
How I hate that!
I'm busy at Dede's tomorrow.
Will you watch Louis?
I can't. I'm taking
Martine to Nantes.
To the doctor? Why?
For her flat feet. She always
takes her shoes off.
I can always take Louis along.
No, Pelo'll watch him, since
they get along so well.
Shoes... Lucky she doesn't
take something else off!
Are my beans good, anyway?
Not even expensive canned
beans are that good.
Don't you like the
cart anymore?
Yes, but...
You watch him tomorrow.
We can manage...
man to man.
Is that my newspaper?
Louis, take the bread
back to the bread bin.
Drunk again.
I don't blame you. The monthly
rag is an ugly mess.
Is that blood?
Just about.
That's where we come from.
We never really get out!
Whatever we do,
everything pulls us
back to the womb!
You'll see.
What was he saying to you?
You didn't find the bin?
Pelo said it's an ugly mess.
It's normal. My mama and
my sister have monthlies too.
Solange told me I'd
soon have mine also.
What are they for?
So you'll know if you're
expecting or not.
If you get 'em once a month,
there's no baby!
If not, you're stuck!
You mean you can get
a baby every month?
I guess so.
Come and wash your feet!
We'll miss the bus!
What a bore!
What's wrong?
She wants to buy me shoes
cripples wear!
If she thinks I'll wear 'em,
she's out of her mind!
Is it smooth?
Is it smooth?
You bet it is!
As smooth as an angel's behind!
Will you teach me?
I haven't got time.
Just watch and you'll
know a lot already.
And she has to work?
Her husband keeps changing jobs,
"forgets" to send money.
She can't raise a kid alone.
And she'll soon have two.
What work does she do?
She's a typist in Paris.
Too bad. She was so talented.
For what?
For drawing, although
I'm no judge.
Could've been a painter.
When you have kids...!
What's the boy like?
He's cute, but as nervous
as a girl.
Are you keeping up
the pace, my sweets?
Who plucks your feathers,
you rooster!
That's all for today.
Is the boat finished?
Nearly.
Don't forget your cart.
May I keep the pieces
of wood in it?
Of course.
I'll be a carpenter
some day.
And you won't be as dumb
as Pelo, thank God!
Hurry up or Marcelle will
bawl us out.
Does she talk about me?
I don't remember.
Didn't she say I was mean?
What do you think?
Am I mean or not?
I don't know.
Yet it was my fault you had
bad dreams the first night.
But forget all that now.
I don't know much
about children.
So I'm a bit wary at first.
Just like you.
What's the clap?
Did you have a snack?
Should've taken a snack
along for him.
You must never let
kids go hungry.
Poor Louis, you must be starving.
No, I had fun.
But that's not enough.
Come shopping with me.
I'll buy you a pastry.
How is your wine?
Come on in and see.
Is there a beach here?
No, she's going to the graveyard.
It's her mania.
Is she crazy?
All she can think of
is her grief.
Everybody in bed now.
Good night, honey.
Maybe your little brother'll
knock on the door tomorrow.
Maybe it'll be a girl.
What do you want, a brother
or a sister?
It doesn't matter.
Anyway, it's God who
decides that.
Does it hurt when a
baby comes out?
Don't you worry.
The second one's easy as pie!
Anybody home?
What do you want?
It's not for me!
It's Pelo.
O.K. I get it. Where is he?
He couldn't get past the pump.
I tried, but he's too heavy.
Too drunk, you mean. Now get
home before you drop.
The bastard's heavy!
There you are.
You still love me enough
to do this?
Get up!
I knew it! Good kind Marcelle.
She doesn't help the
drunk out of kindness.
It's only because she's ashamed!
But I am not ashamed.
I'm not ashamed!
Heavy, aren't I?
God helps those who
help themselves!
Help her!
No, God won't help you!
"For better or for worse"!
After that, work
it out yourself!
Get up!
We've already had the
worst, dammit!
Shit, let's have some
of the better!
Let's do it in the wheelbarrow!
You bitch! You bitch!
He can sleep on the floor.
I'll get you!
Shit, it's red.
I'll get you yet!
Open up!
Open up!
There you are.
What luck!
I bet I can make you
come out, you bitch!
We need air in here!
It stinks!
Get out of there!
Gotta destroy this!
Get out of here!
Stop it!
Stop it, I beg you!
Wreck the museum!
Out with the relics!
You have no right!
You bastard!
I have a right to destroy
what I made!
You have no right!
I've got you now, you bitch!
Go on! I'm fed up with life
with you! Strangle me!
You'd like that, but that's
not what I want!
This is my right too!
Just ask your priest!
Don't get too much sun,
you'll get sick.
Stay in the shade now
and drink some water.
Come on and play.
No cripple shoes?
No way! I hide 'em
when I go outdoors.
Why does she always take a
rake to the graveyard?
To scratch her husband's belly!
Wanna see?
Why?
It's fun to see pictures
of dead folks! Let's go.
Not like this.
Dummy! No one'll see you.
He's funny with his mustache.
Looks like a president.
How did he die?
He drowned in the Loire with
his son before the war.
But they only found him.
She goes to the Loire often.
She watches all day hoping
her son'll come out.
Did they go to the Loire to swim?
No, they went night fishing
with a lantern.
A tugboat didn't see them.
And bang! It split their
boat in two.
Did they sink?
Obviously!
They found him 3 days later
covered with civelles!
Coming out of his nose
and even his eyes!
Civelles'll eat anything.
What are civelles?
Idiot! They're baby eels.
Like maggots. With little
black eyes.
They're awfully good
in salad dressing.
- Wanna taste 'em?
- I sure don't!
At least come and look at 'em.
What are you getting
into the fridge?
Just to show Louis
the civelles!
They're still wiggling.
They refuse to die.
Come on! They won't
jump on you.
Come on, I said!
See their eyes?
Yes, I see 'em.
No you don't!
Gotta get closer.
Look how funny they are.
You little bitch!
Stop all that noise!
What did you do to him?
Nothing! He was scared
of the civelles!
I saw your "civelle"!
Pelo's back!
Run for shelter!...
It's
me!
Was that the doc heading
for the rest home?
It was a Peugeot.
Smells like death.
If the priest is next, I'll be
making a coffin tomorrow.
There he goes.
What did I tell you?
Hi, everybody!
Do you bury 'em before
they die now?
I just saw the priest
chasing the doctor.
I wanna dig while it's cool.
I won't start the
pine box yet.
Those nuns still owe me for 2.
Better pay or I'll use plywood.
I gotta dig before it gets dark.
Then run along.
Conniving nuns!
- Who's gonna die?
- An old woman.
- Why is she dying?
- She's very old.
Nonsense!
If they'd left Pauline
in her home...
... she'd be alive and kicking now.
Those nuns made her
take a short cut.
Guess who'll get the house?!
It's your bedtime. I'll
bring the potty up.
Don't bug him with that pot.
Gotta learn to piss like a man!
Against a wall!
Hit it and you're
ready for girls!
Not too close, Louis!
Hot walls attract snakes!
Is that true?
Don't worry,
the "snake" is back there!
Heck, I almost hit it.
You'll manage some day.
There's no hurry.
What'll we give Pauline,
yellow or white ones?
Golden ones!
Golden ones then.
Is it real gold?
Of course.
If you steal my handles,
you can go live in America
like an oil king!
It's not gold, it's brash.
You mean brass.
Why are there so many
dead folks here?
No more than anywhere else.
But in Paris, nobody notices.
Gotta keep the metro
running, see?
Here, they have time to see
others die before they do.
They can get used to the idea.
And the day they go
into the hole,
they know the guy who dug it,
and the people around 'em.
Aren't they mad at Hippolyte?
Not a bit!
They know he won't stick 'em
beside the wrong people...
And make it as bad as before.
He won't put the husband
next to the lover.
And Hippolyte's turn
will come too.
I'm scared of that graveyard.
No need to be.
It's nicer than crowded
city ones.
Here, even if you've got
dirt over your face,
there's room to breathe!
Then will you leave holes?
No, I don't plan to.
Get out or I'll nail you inside!
You're about to have
babies too.
Are you scared?
Not a bit! That's all
she ever does.
Get lost! You're mean!
It was just a joke.
Come on and play.
Not with a girl ever!
You'll have to! I gotta
take care of you...
... while Marcelle's at the funeral.
The handles are brass.
I know. Mama has the same
ones on her dresser.
Come on!
Not much of a funeral.
Once they buried a guy
whose head was cut off!
On the guillotine?
He was on a motorcycle behind
a truck that lost a sheet of glass.
But he stayed on and even...
... passed the truck!
The driver fainted
when he saw no head!
Liar. That can't be true.
Just like a chicken
with its head cut off!
I don't believe you.
O.K., but the story about
the civelles was true.
Come here! Your father's
on the phone!
At least admit it!
You sneak around!
You're cunning!
Like a big spider
about to pounce!
I know you only too well!
You're going nuts.
That's it, tell everybody I'm
going mad! You'd like that.
No, stay here and listen
to what I have to say!
I know it all by heart!
When you saw he liked me, you
did your best to spoil it!
You're not his mother.
Almost! Claire is like a sister.
You go to the graveyard
too often. Louis is alive!
Alive!
One more thing:
stop bugging him with
your religious crap!
The rumor is he hasn't
even been baptized!
And I'm taking him fishing
next Sunday!
He hurt your feelings?
Certainly not!
He has done everything
he can to hurt me.
But it stopped hurting
me long ago.
Are you crying?
Certainly not! It's just
a runny nose.
You're crying.
No! But I'm gonna peel
onions and that
makes my eyes water.
Now go out and play!
Or your eyes will be
running too!
Did you catch a lot of frogs?
With legs bigger than the ones
on your boy there!
Where were you hiding them?
He sure has grown fast!
Gotta hurry, I got lines out.
Run along then!
Is she a tramp?
No, I bet Froggy Mary's got
a mattress full of millions...
after 50 years of selling 'em
to all the restaurants.
Can you eat frogs?
Only the legs, but
they're fabulous!
She thought you were my father.
She's lived alone in swamps
so long she's senile.
More fun than mass.
It sure is.
You're like me, you don't
believe all that stuff.
Heaven's nice though,
for people who are dead.
Maybe not. Imagine the whole
town on vacation up there!
On only bread and water!
I'd prefer hell on earth
or even Hell itself!
Hell is where
the best broads are,
who can't get enough!
They ruin your health,
but never your nerves!
But talking won't make
the fish bite.
Maybe that's it. You said
not to talk.
Right, I open my big
mouth too often.
Let's try another spot.
You wish Marcelle
was like that?
Like what?
"Can't get enough, "
like you said.
She used to be once.
When we first met, we had
lots of fun.
We'd go dancing. Then we came
home in the truck.
The same one?
Yeah, it was brand new.
We were often in such a hurry
we pulled over to the side.
To kiss?
Yeah, to kiss!
And pretty soon,
we were out in the daisies
or under the tarp.
On the ground?
You'll find out.
With hay under you
and stars above, the world
can be beautiful!
How did Jean-Pierre die?
Did Marcelle tell you?
No, I saw her go to his grave.
He was to be born
a few days after you.
And he wasn't born?
A birth isn't always easy.
We had only one old doctor.
It was done at home then.
No one went to hospitals.
And so he died?
Is that why Marcelle's
always mad at you?
For that and all the rest.
Grown-ups have problems.
It's not easy, you know.
That's enough fishing
for today.
Or we'll miss the bicycle
race results.
Let's go!
I caught two.
But Pelo caught the big ones.
Don't expect me
to clean them!
Why? Don't you like fish?
Yvonne'll take care
of him tomorrow.
Come on, we'll clean
'em ourselves.
I'll tell you the rest.
Marcelle almost died
afterwards!
A nun gave her injections
3 times a day.
When she got well,
she didn't want to with
Pelo anymore. No way!
I heard my mother tell Solange.
Didn't want to what?
How stupid you are!
She didn't want sex anymore!
- Really?
-You bet!
Don't complain if you get sick!
They're not ripe.
Don't complain if you get a baby!
I know where you're going!
She can't tell on me.
She knows I'll get even.
- Where's she going?
- To pick "mushrooms"!
We've got enough now.
We'll never eat 'em all.
Dirty boy! Why do you always
stare at my pants?
I don't. You keep showing them.
Liar! I saw you when
I was in the tree.
Admit it, you're curious.
You've never seen a girl's
wee-wee, I bet!
Yes I have.
I bet you haven't!
Want me to show you?
-Yours?
- Are you kidding?
Come and see!
Free of charge!
Promise not to tell a soul!
Take off your sandals.
Wait a second.
Now do you see what Marcelle
won't do with Pelo anymore?
Why does Solange do it if
it hurts that much?
You moron! It doesn't hurt her,
it feels good!
She loves it so much
she can't stand it!
"Oh! Yes! Don't stop!"
I think you need to come
to confession.
Why didn't you come
to mass yesterday?
Pelo took me fishing.
Will you save your soul
by catching sunfish?
Be there next Sunday.
Shit, I didn't see him coming!
But God sees you!
Do we have a soul?
That's all hooey!
I don't care, I'm a Buddhist!
God has nothing on me...
I go to church once a week!
I go to heaven when I like!
Do you believe me?
If you're brave, I'll prove it!
When no one's here, sometimes
I play with 2 fingers.
Don't touch, those things
make an awful racket.
Come on!
Come on!
My shorts!
You're lucky it didn't
go up your hole!
Are you coming?
Did that nun see us?
Heck no, she only wakes
up for meals!
Look at the bell!
It's awfully big.
Up this way.
Go slow or you'll
break your neck!
Go ahead, it's safe.
You're gonna be amazed!
Come on!
It's awfully high.
We're only halfway up!
They started some repairs,
and they left the ladder.
So we can go all the way!
I'm not going.
Fraidy cat! I've been clear up
... to the cross. It's easy!
It's flat. All you do is
walk like a sleepwalker.
No, we'll break out necks.
If a girl can do it,
you can't chicken out!
But you're 10 years old.
Come on or I'll go down the other
side and leave you up here!
What's wrong? Don't be
a scairdy cat!
I got a tummy ache.
That's the apples.
Hurry up or you'll
shit in your pants!
Haven't we got a nice view
up here in heaven?
The ocean's there,
but we can't see it.
I'd like to go there.
Have you ever been?
Only once and it was
raining pitchforks!
Shall we go down now?
Don't chicken out! We said
we'd go to the cross.
Look, it's easy.
Meet me at the cross.
Do like me. Don't look
down or else... splattt!
-You left them alone?!
- I'm going shopping.
Don't worry, they're
under the apple trees.
Those green apples'll give
'em the runs!
They're already thick
as thieves.
You're almost there.
Keep going slowly.
Grab my hand!
See how easy it is.
Look, Solange has
finished with Simon.
She'll go home looking as
innocent as the Virgin!
I wanna go home too.
No, pee into the gargoyle first
or it doesn't count!
- Pee where?
- There! It's fun!
It sprays out down below.
O.K. but then don't watch.
O.K. I've seen your weeny
already, anyway.
Oh! Sweet Jesus!
Tearing your pants just to
climb trees and get sick.
You won't play over
there anymore!
Are you yelling at
the outhouse now?
Martine fed him apples,
now he's got the runs.
That's better than a broken leg,
so shut up!
So you defend him now!
You can come out,
she's gone now.
That'll teach you to show
off in front of girls!
Careful or they'll hook you!
I need it before he leaves.
Don't worry, you'll be beautiful.
Try on the skirt.
It's too long.
Make up your mind.
He won't even notice when
he yanks it off!
He understood that.
Nonsense! Not at his age...
A letter! I think
it's for the boy.
Louis, it's from your mama.
"Dear Marcelle and
my darling Louis.
"I'm fine, but with
this heat wave,
"I wish the baby was
already here. "
Poor Claire. It's hard
enough as it is.
Isn't the baby out yet?
I'm getting to that.
"He kicks a lot and I have
to lie down often...
... because of the contractions.
They've stopped now. "
Your little brother wants
some fresh air!
What are contractions?
I'll explain later.
"I can't write any more now.
"I have to go buy things
I'll need in the hospital. "
The hospital?
The maternity ward.
"I hope Louis isn't too
much work... " This is for me...
"I'm enclosing a postcard
from Papa. "
Let me see it.
Let me finish:
"He works hard, but he thinks
of you a lot, Louis,
"and he sends you his love
along with mine. "
There's nothing on it.
What do you mean?
Either he forgot or he
sent the wrong card.
The same thing happened to me.
It's not from Papa!
Yes it is! Look, there's
an X on the hotel.
He must work there.
Sure, and that's his room
where the X is.
I know that card. I saw
it last year!
What are you talking about?
It was in our buffet drawer!
Mama put it in the letter
to make me believe that.
Where'd you get that idea?
You're a liar! You're a liar!
He's far away by now.
I just couldn't stop myself!
Let it go! Martine'll comfort him.
I believe I hit him too hard.
When I think of all
the slaps I got...!
I was about to make rabbit.
Better change the menu.
I can still see the marks.
Mama says that helps
the circulation.
Yours must be going wild!
Forget it. Marcelle must
feel worse than you.
I don't mind her.
That's not it.
It's your father?
Mine's the same way. One day
he just walked out!
Mama told me he was travelling...
... but I knew it was
a fib all along.
Is he gone for good?
You bet! He ran away with
a salesgirl in town.
But she spends all his dough.
So it must be the same
with your father!
Can't be. My father's
not like that.
Says you! Old men are
all like that.
They see a girl's ass
and... bing!
They ditch the old lady!
Can't be! My father's not old!
And Mama's much prettier
than a salesgirl!
Maybe they don't love
each other anymore.
It's better than fighting
like Marcelle and Pelo.
It's not true!
He didn't run away!
You're a big liar!
Come back! I only said
that to tease you!
Your snack's ready, Louis!
What is this? What have you done?
Come here, you hoodlum!
Come out! I know you're
hiding in there!
Come out or I'll go buy a whip!
I'm gonna get mad!
I'll sell them all to the butcher!
You'll like it when he
makes pt out of 'em!
O.K. they'll be pt!
Never mind!
You! Are you hiding him then?
No, he ran away,
that's all I know!
What for? Because I slapped him?
No, it's his father!
Why? What'd he say to you?
He's scared his father ran
off and left his mother!
You haven't found him?
Martine says he ran away.
Did you see Louis on the road?
No, what's wrong?
- He ran away.
- He was crying like crazy.
We'll go look for him!
Maybe he's in the
shop with Pelo.
Go look and bring Pelo!
What's going on?
I can't fix it!
Louis ran away because of his
father and Marcelle slapped him.
What're you saying?
You gotta come quick!
Louis, answer me, honey!...
Where can he be?
- He's not with you?
- No!
Well?
Can't you see he's
not with me?
We gotta find him fast!
Maybe he's hiding just
to bug you!
Why did you slap him?
I'll explain later!
Take the truck...
... and go see if he went
to catch the bus!
It's busted! I'm trying
to fix it!
We'll use my car.
You go alone. People must've
seen him. I'll go ask around.
Me too! I know all the hide-outs!
I'll go phone from Yvonne's!
They wouldn't let him take
the 6 o'clock bus.
They wouldn't let him on.
He might talk the
driver into it.
Blessed hay fever!
First time I ever saw you two
run to the church!
This is no time to joke.
Louis ran away!
Have you seen him?
Answer me, have you seen him?
He's up there!
He peed into the gargoyle
to get us wet!
Nonsense!
I showed him how! He's up there,
1 tell you!
He couldn't get up there!
How do you get up there?
I'll show you!
Over the holy water and up!
I see.
But this is locked.
That won't stop 'em!
Run and get Marcelle.
No, I'm going up too!
I'm going to get my keys.
She gave birth to a boy.
That's one less worry.
- Was that a nurse?
- Yes, thank God!
Oh God, if ever...
I did it! I found him!
He's on the roof!
So there you are.
Some acrobat you are!
Did Martine show you
that gargoyle trick?
Pretty good aim. You almost
baptized the priest!
Stay there.
I'll move the ladder.
Wait there, I'll come
up after you.
Go away! I'm not coming down!
You really feel bad,
don't you?
Up there! By the cross!
Don't yell!
Why isn't Pelo there?
Maybe he got dizzy!
Did you run away because
Marcelle slapped you?
I don't care about that!
Or Marcelle either!
I hate you all!
I hate you all!
Don't say that... Don't move!
You know, Marcelle and I
really enjoy having you.
That's not true! You quarrel
all the time!
You're mean, both of you!
Don't go that way!
Stop, Louis, or you'll fall!
I don't care if I fall!
It'll serve Papa right!
Louis, come back!
If Mama dies having the baby,
I'll be with her.
I'll be with Mama.
He fell into the gutter!
Call an ambulance,
maybe he's injured!
There's Pelo!
I found the keys at last!
Are you O.K. ?
Answer me! Are you hurt?
My rabbit...?
A fine time to ask that.
I don't think he's hurt!
We're coming to get him!
Well, doctor?
Nothing. A few scratches.
He's a pretty lucky boy!
A real miracle,
wouldn't you say?
Not a miracle, but a little help,
that's sure!
Anyway, it calls for a drink!
Let me prescribe
some wine, doctor!
Usually I do the prescribing!
I could use a drink too,
after a fright like that!
Guess who came while you
were scaring us to death?
The firemen?
No, silly! Your little brother!
They phoned. He's fine and so's
your mama. Are you happy?
What's his name?
Michel... like the cookies!
Beat it! Haven't you done
enough for one day?
I want her to stay with me.
Not for long.
I'll get you some broth.
You skunk, you sure
did scare us!
Were you afraid?
You bet! If you'd died,
they'd have blamed me!
See? I was brave enough to
go pee into the gargoyle alone.
You did even better than me!
You used the roof for a slide!
Did he fall asleep?
After what happened, all you
could do was go to a bar!
But am I drunk?
The priest gave us some holy wine.
He says it's a miracle!
But he couldn't have found
smaller glasses!
Don't be sacrilegious
Poor Marcelle. You should dance
a jig to know he's alive.
If your God did help to save him...
... He doesn't deserve your
mouth any more than I do...
... and so now good night.
But what if he'd been killed?!
That's just it, he wasn't!
He almost died and I
should dance a jig!
But he's alive!
And he'll stay alive if people like
you don't make him unhappy.
I'd have died if he had fallen!
Will you stop it.
Stop it.
You're crying over yourself.
You keep carrying your cross!
You must actually enjoy it!
Unless it's just to
make me miserable.
What about me?
Do you think...?
What are you doing
up, sweetheart?
I can't get to sleep.
You'll have to try.
Go back to bed.
I want to stay with you two.
I see how it is.
Come here, son.
You need some herb tea.
Stay here! That's not
what he needs!
You didn't like being alone
in Grandma's room?
May I turn out the light?
When is Mama coming for me?
As soon as she gets out of
the clinic with the baby.
Now it's your turn to
sleep like a baby.
If Pelo doesn't snore.
What time is it?
Are you in a hurry to leave us?
I don't blame you.
Give her time.
Do you think she's
on the way now?
Has been for hours.
I bet she's as eager as you are.
What're you doing?
I can't leave it like this.
I gotta go out on a job,
so Simon'll pick Claire up.
You'll never meet her!
Ought to be able to fix this.
Better use it for kindling.
Go see Louis before
you leave.
Else he'll be unhappy.
Why is our tomboy so sad?
Is it because vacation's
almost over?
It's because your shoes hurt.
Go tell Louis good-bye.
Mind you own business!
You look so glum. Come on,
kiss me, sweet pea.
I'm going away too. To war.
And I may not come back.
I don't like to hear
you say that.
Yeah, but who knows how
this mess'll end?
With a wedding!
Oh, there you are.
- What're you making?
- Not soda pop, that's for sure!
Is it wine?
You bet! I'll add rum
to make it 30 proof!
- So you can get drunk?
- What do you care?
I came to say good-bye.
Well, I have to go now.
We gotta go catch the bus.
- Will you come back?
- I don't know.
Then you're a dumbbell.
Good-byes aren't easy...
Well, let's try...
Le Grand Chemin!
Be very good to Mama, kiss
your little brother...
... and remember to send postcards
to Marcelle and Pelo.
- Even with mistakes?
- Even lots of 'em!
- I'll send a picture of the baby.
- Yes, please.
Get in, Louis.
See? Your vacation wasn't
as bad as all that!
- Going to Nantes?
-Yes.
Thank you again.
Don't mention it.
Shall I bring Pelo's "assistant"
back next year?
Yeah, now beat it!
They're in the bus now?
Started smoking again?
He forgot his cart.
I'm just dumb!
I can't help it!
That's it, have a good cry.
English Version
Bruce Lowery
Duncan Taylor, September 2004