0:00:02 > 0:00:12This film contains some strong language.
0:01:41 > 0:01:44# Who'll be deceiving me?
0:01:44 > 0:01:47# Who will be leaving me?
0:01:47 > 0:01:52# Bel Ami-i-i-i-i... #
0:01:52 > 0:01:56HE WHISTLES: "Aupres De Ma Blonde"
0:02:04 > 0:02:09CONTINUES WHISTLING
0:02:17 > 0:02:24I said to my friend, "There's a handsome gentleman who will stand us a grenadine."
0:02:24 > 0:02:26You will stand us a drink?
0:02:26 > 0:02:28Yes.
0:02:28 > 0:02:31From that fountain.
0:02:37 > 0:02:39Espece de cochon!
0:02:39 > 0:02:42HE RESUMES WHISTLING
0:02:46 > 0:02:49Georges! Don't you know me?
0:02:49 > 0:02:53- Charles Forestier, 6th Hussars. - I knew you at once.
0:02:53 > 0:02:58- You old rogue!- Same old Charles. - Come and have a drink.
0:02:58 > 0:03:02- Delighted to see you. - How are you?- Not too well.
0:03:02 > 0:03:06- I've got a bad cough. What'll you have?- Beer.- Two.
0:03:06 > 0:03:11- Doctor tells me I should go south, but I can't leave my job.- What job?
0:03:11 > 0:03:15I'm on the editorial staff for the Vie Francaise. A journalist,
0:03:15 > 0:03:18- if you please.- A journalist? Sounds important.
0:03:18 > 0:03:25A fancy word for a newspaperman. What have you been up to since you left the army?
0:03:25 > 0:03:31- I'm rich. Got enough money to last me the rest of my life. - You have?- If I die tomorrow.
0:03:31 > 0:03:34How do you like that?
0:03:34 > 0:03:39Is Ignorance Desirable In A Cabinet Minister? by Charles Forestier.
0:03:39 > 0:03:45- You see?- You've come a long way from the time we stole chickens from bloodthirsty Arabs.
0:03:45 > 0:03:51- Don't. I'm scared to remember it. - To the Arabs.- God rest their souls.
0:03:51 > 0:03:58I got sick of the army, but Paris is no better. I've been sent into the world merely to swell the crowd.
0:03:58 > 0:04:05- You expect to open Paris like an oyster?- I work for a railway company at 1,500 francs a year.
0:04:05 > 0:04:10- Hang it, that's not much.- Today is the 28th of June. Here's my capital.
0:04:10 > 0:04:17Three francs, 40 centimes till pay day. I can have two lunches and no dinner or two dinners and no lunch.
0:04:17 > 0:04:23- I did a foolish thing. I squandered the price of breakfast on a toy.- Punch?
0:04:23 > 0:04:28What in the world prompted you to buy this?
0:04:28 > 0:04:32I have need of a stout stick like that of Punch to beat my way.
0:04:32 > 0:04:39When I see the idiots with money, I'm tempted to wring their necks like we did with the chickens.
0:04:39 > 0:04:43LAUGHTER, THEN HACKING COUGH
0:04:48 > 0:04:53- That IS a bad cough you've got. - I shouldn't have taken that cheroot.
0:04:53 > 0:05:00- Couldn't you get a better job?- Been offered a riding master's place. - People in society won't receive you
0:05:00 > 0:05:04- if you give riding lessons. - One grenadine.
0:05:04 > 0:05:12- Make yourself at home.- Your friend. I can make a fool of myself for his sake.- You haven't changed, Georges.
0:05:12 > 0:05:17Women always go for you. Is it that devilish look of yours?
0:05:17 > 0:05:21Maybe. Women take to men who appear wicked.
0:05:21 > 0:05:28- Haven't I seen you in the Folies-Bergere?- It's possible.- I'm Rachel. My friend and I are dancers.
0:05:28 > 0:05:34We're there between nine and ten. Perhaps we'll meet your good-looking friend there.
0:05:34 > 0:05:38Perhaps you will not. Swallow your stolen drink and go.
0:05:42 > 0:05:44Quickly.
0:05:48 > 0:05:56You're very successful with women. It may lead to something. In Paris, it's through them one gets on.
0:06:01 > 0:06:04A stick like that of Punch.
0:06:04 > 0:06:09- What's that?- Nothing. Just an idea that occurred to me.
0:06:09 > 0:06:12Like to try journalism? We have a vacancy.
0:06:12 > 0:06:18- A reporter died in a duel.- I've never written.- Everyone must begin.
0:06:18 > 0:06:24- I can get you a job. Shall I speak to the manager about it?- By all means.
0:06:24 > 0:06:31- Dine with me tomorrow. The boss, Monsieur Walter, will be there. - I haven't any dress clothes.
0:06:31 > 0:06:36In Paris, you may as well go naked. Here's 100 francs. Pay me later.
0:06:36 > 0:06:41- Tomorrow, at half past seven. 17 Quai D'Anjou.- 17 Quai D'Anjou.
0:06:41 > 0:06:49- I've got to run along.- I'll read your article.- Till tomorrow.- Thanks, old man.- Long live the 6th Hussars.
0:06:49 > 0:06:51# He...
0:06:51 > 0:06:54# Whose love is deep
0:06:54 > 0:06:57# Whose love is strong
0:06:57 > 0:07:01# Whose love will keep
0:07:01 > 0:07:03# But not for long
0:07:03 > 0:07:06# Who'll be deceiving me?
0:07:06 > 0:07:09# Who will be leaving me?
0:07:09 > 0:07:13# Bel Ami-i-i-i... #
0:07:46 > 0:07:49DOOR OPENS >
0:07:54 > 0:07:56BELL RINGS
0:08:15 > 0:08:19CHAMBER MUSIC PLAYS
0:08:31 > 0:08:34- Good evening, Clotilde.- Good evening.
0:08:34 > 0:08:38And Georges Duroy. Are you two acquainted?
0:08:38 > 0:08:44- Monsieur Georges Duroy - Madame Clotilde de Marelle, my very dear friend.- Madame.
0:08:44 > 0:08:46We met by chance at your door.
0:08:46 > 0:08:50Fate, perhaps, had a hand in it.
0:09:03 > 0:09:07GENTEEL CHAMBER MUSIC
0:09:17 > 0:09:22It's Norbert de Varenne, the blind composer, and his wife Marie.
0:09:22 > 0:09:28< Organist at Notre Dame Cathedral. He writes for the Vie Francaise.
0:09:28 > 0:09:30And who is that beside Charles?
0:09:30 > 0:09:36Laroche-Mathieu, of the Chamber of Deputies. Political editor of the paper.
0:09:36 > 0:09:39He will be a cabinet minister. >
0:09:39 > 0:09:47- And the gentleman with the cigar is Walter?- You'll never see him without one. Banker and publisher.
0:09:53 > 0:09:58The woman knitting is his wife. She's always knitting. >
0:09:58 > 0:10:05- The girl is their daughter, Suzanne. - Mme Walter knits too fast. There's trouble locked up in her.
0:10:07 > 0:10:09- Perhaps.- Who is the artist?
0:10:09 > 0:10:13Jacques Rival, the caricaturist. >
0:10:13 > 0:10:16He's very witty. You'll like him.
0:10:16 > 0:10:19MUSIC CONTINUES
0:10:31 > 0:10:34MUSIC ENDS
0:10:40 > 0:10:43Isn't it absurd, Monsieur?
0:10:43 > 0:10:49I'm not allowed to go to the theatre, or to read the serials in Papa's newspaper.
0:10:49 > 0:10:54I'm allowed to paint in watercolours, but not in oils, and then only roses.
0:10:54 > 0:10:57Parents keep their daughters sealed up.
0:10:57 > 0:11:03Were we born to imitate our grandmothers and do embroidery patterns?
0:11:03 > 0:11:06After all, I'm 15, and this is 1880.
0:11:06 > 0:11:09< Excuse my daughter, Monsieur.
0:11:09 > 0:11:12She chatters like that all day.
0:11:12 > 0:11:17If I published a newspaper fit for my daughter to read, I'd go bust.
0:11:17 > 0:11:22She's old enough to read anything. We censor our young people too much.
0:11:22 > 0:11:29The only way to develop an immunity to the diseases of life is to be exposed to them.
0:11:29 > 0:11:34- A dangerous theory.- Not only young people suffer from censorship.
0:11:34 > 0:11:37I'm a widow with a young daughter.
0:11:37 > 0:11:42I'd like to disguise myself and go dancing at the Reine Blanche.
0:11:42 > 0:11:49- But not a single gentleman of my acquaintance will take me there. - They are perfectly right.
0:11:49 > 0:11:54- Monsieur de Varenne...- It is Monsieur Duroy who is speaking.
0:11:54 > 0:12:01- I saw you at the puppet theatre on the Champs Elysees.- I like that puppet show because of Punch.
0:12:01 > 0:12:04There's a lesson to be learned there.
0:12:04 > 0:12:07A lesson to be learned from Punch?
0:12:07 > 0:12:13He beats everyone who opposes him, but his brutality is imposed on him.
0:12:13 > 0:12:18Those who surrender to evil are not free, but marionettes of the devil.
0:12:18 > 0:12:23We are all no more than puppets unless we believe in God.
0:12:23 > 0:12:28Don't let's discuss God over soup. It usually comes up over dessert.
0:12:28 > 0:12:32When no-one knows what he's talking about.
0:12:32 > 0:12:38I'm religious. I pray every morning for the Stock Market to go up!
0:12:38 > 0:12:41NO-ONE ELSE LAUGHS
0:12:43 > 0:12:49Why do you think that Punch has been so popular for centuries? Because he's a scoundrel.
0:12:49 > 0:12:56- The human race adores a scoundrel and crucifies its heroes. - What is your opinion of Punch?
0:12:56 > 0:13:03- I have respect for him. It is not easy to be a successful scoundrel. - You are right. It takes talent.
0:13:03 > 0:13:09But what strikes me most about Punch is his amorous inclination.
0:13:19 > 0:13:25- Disgusting.- I find it delightful. You've arrived at a subject which interests me.
0:13:25 > 0:13:33It interests women, perhaps because in discussing it one passes readily from the general to the particular.
0:13:33 > 0:13:41After the dinner, I shall make a caricature of you as Punch, since you admire him so much.
0:13:41 > 0:13:47Your wife says you have something to discuss, Charles. The paper?
0:13:47 > 0:13:50Yes. It can wait till dinner's over.
0:13:50 > 0:13:56Nonsense. We are all from the paper except Monsieur Duroy. He won't mind.
0:13:56 > 0:14:01- It concerns Monsieur Duroy. You'll forgive me, Georges?- Of course.
0:14:01 > 0:14:04Poor Marambot was killed in a duel.
0:14:04 > 0:14:08I would rather have lost... 20,000 francs.
0:14:08 > 0:14:11Duellists are just murderers.
0:14:11 > 0:14:16- We need to replace him. I suggest my friend.- Are you a journalist?
0:14:16 > 0:14:21- Charles intends to make me one. - Georges has returned from Africa.
0:14:21 > 0:14:27He can write about Algeria, while it's being debated in the Chamber.
0:14:27 > 0:14:31Recollections Of A Chasseur D'Afrique. I'd like to read that.
0:14:31 > 0:14:35Bring me an article tomorrow at three,
0:14:35 > 0:14:38and we'll decide the matter.
0:14:44 > 0:14:48WHISTLING: "Aupres De Ma Blonde"
0:14:54 > 0:14:57TRAIN WHISTLE BLOWS
0:15:46 > 0:15:51TRAIN WHISTLE BLOWS, ENGINES CHUG PAST
0:16:15 > 0:16:17HE COUGHS
0:17:03 > 0:17:06TRAIN WHISTLE BLOWS
0:17:28 > 0:17:35- Charles!- Georges, what on earth are you doing here?- Waiting for you to come out. I didn't want to go up
0:17:35 > 0:17:39for fear of disturbing you. I need your help.
0:17:39 > 0:17:44- Checking your competitors?- Taking a course in journalism.- I see.
0:17:44 > 0:17:51- You haven't been able to write? - Been at it all night. I made notes, but I can't get them into shape.
0:17:51 > 0:17:59- I'm in a bit of a hurry.- Just get me started. I've got to make a good impression on Monsieur Walter.
0:17:59 > 0:18:03- You've got some good ideas here. - I can't organise them properly.
0:18:07 > 0:18:09Go in and see my wife.
0:18:09 > 0:18:14- She'll be able to help.- Your wife? - I trained her for this kind of work.
0:18:14 > 0:18:20- I can't call on her at this time of day.- She's up. She's in my study.
0:18:20 > 0:18:27- You're not going to make me climb those stairs?- I'll tell her that you forced me to go.
0:18:27 > 0:18:32- Bring the article to me at the Vie Francaise.- Don't worry about that.
0:18:37 > 0:18:42And that, Monsieur, is how one writes an article. Sign it, please.
0:18:42 > 0:18:45I haven't the words to thank you.
0:18:45 > 0:18:51Nonsense. I made the sauce, but you provided the materials - excellent materials.
0:18:51 > 0:18:54But sign it.
0:18:56 > 0:18:58Georges Duroy.
0:19:03 > 0:19:08I hope you're not suffocated. I simply can't work without smoking.
0:19:08 > 0:19:13- What is it you want to say?- You won't be offended?- Is it so awful?
0:19:13 > 0:19:17When I saw you last night I thought, "She's beautiful."
0:19:20 > 0:19:24No woman could be offended by such a confession.
0:19:24 > 0:19:28Now I can't help thinking, "She's clever."
0:19:29 > 0:19:35- What did you think of Clotilde? - She's so young to be a widow.
0:19:35 > 0:19:42She was married to an older man. She's original and intelligent. You must call on her.
0:19:42 > 0:19:47- She wanted to go to the Reine Blanche. Dare I take her?- Not there.
0:19:47 > 0:19:50Bernard, how nice to see you. Madeleine.
0:19:53 > 0:20:00An old friend of Charles, Monsieur Georges Duroy. Our closest friend, the Count de Vaudrec.
0:20:00 > 0:20:03- Monsieur.- Monsieur.
0:20:03 > 0:20:05Well, thank you again.
0:20:20 > 0:20:23LIVELY DANCE MUSIC
0:21:28 > 0:21:31DANCE MUSIC ENDS
0:21:33 > 0:21:36MOURNFUL MELODY PLAYS
0:21:36 > 0:21:39# So many women adore him
0:21:39 > 0:21:44# So many women, they bore him
0:21:44 > 0:21:48# I'm just a woman who's for him
0:21:48 > 0:21:53# If only he loved only me
0:21:53 > 0:21:58# Who am I dreaming of Each time I dream of love?
0:21:58 > 0:22:01# My Bel Ami
0:22:01 > 0:22:06# Who clinks his glass with mine Each time we're drinking wine?
0:22:06 > 0:22:10# My Bel Ami
0:22:10 > 0:22:16# Whose arms romance with me Each time they dance with me?
0:22:16 > 0:22:19# It's plain to see
0:22:19 > 0:22:22# Whose love is deep?
0:22:22 > 0:22:25# Whose love is strong?
0:22:25 > 0:22:29# Whose love will keep? But not for long
0:22:29 > 0:22:32# Who'll be deceiving me?
0:22:32 > 0:22:34# Who will be leaving me?
0:22:34 > 0:22:38# Bel Ami... #
0:22:45 > 0:22:48SHE HUMS: "Bel Ami"
0:22:48 > 0:22:51I've had such fun.
0:22:51 > 0:22:58- We'll spend many such evenings. - At carnival time I want to dress up as a young man in a full dress suit.
0:22:58 > 0:23:03- You've no idea what a charming man I can be.- Haven't I?
0:23:06 > 0:23:12- I'm glad to see that the Vie Francaise has other uses. - I heard Walter talking about you.
0:23:12 > 0:23:19- What did he say?- That you're a real find for the paper. He thinks you'll get on.- I find journalism
0:23:19 > 0:23:25to my taste, but can't make money at it. Who is the Count de Vaudrec?
0:23:25 > 0:23:28He is Madeleine's oldest friend.
0:23:28 > 0:23:30Oh.
0:23:30 > 0:23:33I don't think so.
0:23:33 > 0:23:38He dines with her and Charles twice a week. He's very rich, and a noble.
0:23:38 > 0:23:41Madeleine is very clever.
0:23:41 > 0:23:43I wish I were clever.
0:23:43 > 0:23:50- You're beautiful. I know no cleverness to match that. - She is keen, clever and intriguing.
0:23:50 > 0:23:57- She'd be a treasure for anyone. - She plays with her wedding ring, as if she didn't consider it permanent.
0:23:57 > 0:24:01Charles frightens me with that cough of his.
0:24:01 > 0:24:08- Will she marry again if anything happens to him?- I suspect that she has someone in her eye.
0:24:08 > 0:24:12- Not Laroche-Mathieu?- He'll be a cabinet minister. She's ambitious.
0:24:12 > 0:24:15She's too good for that mediocrity.
0:24:19 > 0:24:22SHE HUMS
0:24:22 > 0:24:25Are you in love with Madeleine?
0:24:25 > 0:24:27Certainly not.
0:24:31 > 0:24:33Are you in love with anyone?
0:24:37 > 0:24:39Yes.
0:24:40 > 0:24:43HUMMING
0:24:46 > 0:24:48Liar!
0:24:53 > 0:24:56CARRIAGE STOPS
0:25:05 > 0:25:07I've had too much champagne.
0:25:14 > 0:25:18- Is she asleep, Louise? - Like an angel, Madame.
0:25:35 > 0:25:39What do you think of my daughter? Isn't she an angel?
0:25:39 > 0:25:44- As adorable as her mother, and more intelligent.- How do you know?
0:25:44 > 0:25:49The soldier in her arms is in the uniform of the 6th Hussars.
0:25:49 > 0:25:52My old regiment.
0:25:55 > 0:25:57What a wicked man you are.
0:25:58 > 0:26:05- I shall call you Bel Ami.- A name I shall do my best to deserve. I have an apartment near Notre Dame.
0:26:05 > 0:26:10- Will you take coffee with me there tomorrow?- No.
0:26:10 > 0:26:12Good.
0:26:18 > 0:26:21Will you take coffee with me tomorrow?
0:26:21 > 0:26:23No.
0:26:35 > 0:26:37Tomorrow afternoon.
0:26:45 > 0:26:49GENTLE PIANO MELODY
0:26:49 > 0:26:53# The lark sings in the morning
0:26:53 > 0:26:58# The robin sings in the day
0:26:58 > 0:27:03# The nightingale sings in the moonlight
0:27:03 > 0:27:07# But my heart sings...
0:27:07 > 0:27:12# Night and day. #
0:27:12 > 0:27:16He wrote it for me, Mummy, for my birthday.
0:27:17 > 0:27:20I love you so much!
0:27:35 > 0:27:38Two grenadine.
0:27:51 > 0:27:54Good evening, Monsieur.
0:28:01 > 0:28:06- You know that woman?- No, I... I never saw her in my life.
0:28:06 > 0:28:11They can be awfully bold sometimes, these women.
0:28:15 > 0:28:17Cognac.
0:28:21 > 0:28:23He cut me dead, the swine.
0:28:25 > 0:28:28HUMMING: "Bel Ami"
0:28:31 > 0:28:39He knew me well enough to have a drink with me last Thursday night, and the Thursday before that.
0:28:39 > 0:28:45He can have all the fancy ladies he likes, but he can at least bow to me.
0:28:52 > 0:28:55I'll teach him manners, the lout.
0:29:09 > 0:29:12Good evening, Georges.
0:29:21 > 0:29:24Good evening. Are you quite well?
0:29:29 > 0:29:32What? Have you grown deaf since Thursday?
0:29:34 > 0:29:36So you're dumb, then?
0:29:36 > 0:29:39Perhaps the lady bit your tongue off.
0:29:39 > 0:29:43- Get out or I'll have you locked up. - You lout!
0:29:43 > 0:29:47The least you can do is nod! You cut me out.
0:29:47 > 0:29:55If you'd only nodded to me just now, I should have left you alone. So you won't say good evening? Stop her!
0:29:55 > 0:29:59She's stolen my sweetheart! ROARS OF LAUGHTER
0:30:42 > 0:30:49'When we first met, you said it was not chance, but fate, that had brought us together.
0:30:49 > 0:30:54'I know now that it was a fatality as inescapable as daybreak,
0:30:54 > 0:30:58'and as mysterious as the rising of the moon.
0:30:58 > 0:31:02'You entered my heart and I gladly made a place for you there.
0:31:02 > 0:31:09'Now it seems as natural for me to love you as to breathe. What have I to reproach you with?
0:31:09 > 0:31:16'That you have made me love you more than you love me? In love, one always loves more than the other.
0:31:16 > 0:31:21'One cannot tear love from the heart as one extracts a tooth.
0:31:21 > 0:31:27'I love you so much that your cruelty is dearer to me than the love of others.
0:31:27 > 0:31:32'There is nothing you could do that I would not be willing to forgive.
0:31:40 > 0:31:45'Tonight my emotions overcame me. For that, I ask forgiveness.
0:31:45 > 0:31:51'I shall hide from you the terrible jealousy that kindles in my heart.
0:31:51 > 0:31:56'If I must weep, I shall hold a curtain between you and my tears.
0:32:05 > 0:32:11'I shall make you a thousand secret sacrifices, including the sacrifice of my self-love.
0:32:11 > 0:32:15'It is not difficult to make the gift of love.
0:32:15 > 0:32:20'But there is a greater gift - the gift of pride.
0:32:20 > 0:32:23'I give you my pride, dear Bel Ami,
0:32:23 > 0:32:27'together with my love, which will never change.'
0:32:56 > 0:33:02Touch old man Walter for a raise since you're taking over my duties.
0:33:03 > 0:33:08- You're leaving?- Tomorrow. I'm going to Cannes. Doctor's orders.
0:33:08 > 0:33:13- About time. - I should have been off a month ago.
0:33:28 > 0:33:33What fools we are. We squander our lives as though we were immortal.
0:33:33 > 0:33:37What kind of talk do you call that?
0:33:37 > 0:33:42It would be odd that, bringing you here, I was training my successor.
0:33:44 > 0:33:49Nonsense. All you need is sunshine and you'll be as fit as ever.
0:33:52 > 0:33:54Perhaps.
0:33:54 > 0:34:00When I am leaving Paris, you decide to visit me. You find time to visit Clotilde.
0:34:00 > 0:34:03Perhaps you've quarrelled with her.
0:34:03 > 0:34:07Clotilde was angry with me. We're friends again.
0:34:07 > 0:34:14- I haven't visited you because it's better so.- Why? - I'm in love with you. Only a little.
0:34:14 > 0:34:21- I don't want to be head over ears. - You could have come. No man loves me long.- Why not?- Because it's useless.
0:34:21 > 0:34:27Understand that. A man in love is not only idiotic, but dangerous, like a mad dog.
0:34:27 > 0:34:33I cease all relations with people in love with me until they're better.
0:34:33 > 0:34:36But can we command our feelings?
0:34:36 > 0:34:38Look at me.
0:34:40 > 0:34:45I assure you that it is useless for you to persist in this sentiment.
0:34:45 > 0:34:49Will you agree to be friends, nothing more?
0:34:49 > 0:34:54Yes. If I'd found a woman like you, how gladly I'd have married her.
0:34:56 > 0:35:03- Can you reach that suitcase for me? - Of course. - May I speak plainly?- Please do.
0:35:03 > 0:35:06Go and see Mme Walter and please her.
0:35:06 > 0:35:10You hold an inferior position. You are not paid enough money.
0:35:10 > 0:35:15- Being attentive to her will help you get on.- How clever.- I'm your friend.
0:35:17 > 0:35:22- Can I tell you an idea I'd had for the paper?- Of course.
0:35:22 > 0:35:26A daily column made up of gossip and rumour.
0:35:26 > 0:35:29- I should call it Echoes. - Echoes? I like that.
0:35:29 > 0:35:35I should hint at things, insinuate what cannot be proved or disproved.
0:35:35 > 0:35:40- Make revelations, contradict in such a way as to confirm.- Superb.
0:35:40 > 0:35:47Everyone must be thought of. All classes, all professions. Army, art world, university, law courts.
0:35:47 > 0:35:49People always believe gossip.
0:35:49 > 0:35:57Reputations could be strengthened or weakened, and the Vie Francaise could become a power to be feared.
0:35:57 > 0:36:03It will be necessary to judge what is good to announce and good to hide.
0:36:03 > 0:36:08One could influence the stock market, the selection of cabinet ministers.
0:36:08 > 0:36:13- Walter will be mad about your idea. - You think so?- It's magnificent.
0:36:13 > 0:36:16I wish I could help you with Echoes.
0:36:20 > 0:36:22I wish you could.
0:36:22 > 0:36:30- Remember, we're friends now. If you have need of me for no matter what, do not hesitate.- Thank you.
0:36:30 > 0:36:35If I can be of use, send a letter or telegram and I will obey.
0:36:35 > 0:36:42- Goodbye, Madeleine. - Goodbye, Bel Ami. We've all picked up Clotilde's nickname for you.
0:36:42 > 0:36:47Bernard, how nice of you to come and bid me goodbye. Madeleine.
0:36:50 > 0:36:53You remember Monsieur Duroy?
0:36:53 > 0:36:55- Monsieur.- Monsieur.
0:37:21 > 0:37:23I'll take these pears.
0:37:25 > 0:37:28HE WHISTLES: "Bel Ami"
0:37:40 > 0:37:44'Georges Duroy begs Madame Walter...
0:37:44 > 0:37:50'to accept a few pears which he received this morning...
0:37:50 > 0:37:52'from Normandy.'
0:38:02 > 0:38:09- It was so good of you to send us the delicious pears.- They're from an orchard close to my old home.
0:38:14 > 0:38:19Sometimes my daughter's actions are a little bewildering.
0:38:19 > 0:38:22Georges, you come at the right time.
0:38:22 > 0:38:27We are discussing a subject on which we need your expert opinion.
0:38:27 > 0:38:34The Venus de Milo's measurements have been compared with those considered ideal in females today.
0:38:34 > 0:38:37- I prefer the living woman.- Bravo.
0:38:37 > 0:38:42When you are my age, you may prefer the statue.
0:38:42 > 0:38:48- I was sure that Bel Ami would be our champion.- On behalf of French womanhood, I thank you.
0:38:48 > 0:38:56A woman turns in the direction you desire. You must walk round statues to get the right point of view.
0:38:56 > 0:39:00- Bravo.- On behalf of French womanhood, I withdraw my thanks.
0:39:00 > 0:39:07- I prefer the statue. It will never deceive you.- Society couldn't exist without deception.
0:39:07 > 0:39:11But you are too severe. There ARE good women.
0:39:11 > 0:39:16- Where?- There may be, somewhere, good women whose existence is unknown.
0:39:16 > 0:39:21No woman is worth what she costs, even if she costs nothing.
0:39:21 > 0:39:26- Is there no-one here to defend us? Monsieur?- You need no defence.
0:39:26 > 0:39:30I shall not hear your virtue traduced.
0:39:30 > 0:39:33If you'll excuse me. So soon?
0:39:33 > 0:39:40Whenever Monsieur Duroy appears, the conversation takes an unwholesome turn.
0:39:55 > 0:39:59I find myself welcome at many gatherings
0:39:59 > 0:40:05for the reason that my arrival is the signal for Monsieur Laroche-Mathieu's departure.
0:40:05 > 0:40:09We are waiting for your devastating reply.
0:40:17 > 0:40:20He'll think of it in the cab.
0:40:20 > 0:40:23- You are wicked to bait him. - He provokes it.
0:40:23 > 0:40:26I disapprove of hypocrisy in others.
0:40:26 > 0:40:30I've been admiring your paintings.
0:40:30 > 0:40:37Now is the time to buy. The painters are all dying of hunger. They have not a sou. Not one sou!
0:40:37 > 0:40:42- I must get home. My daughter will be angry with me.- May I escort you?
0:40:42 > 0:40:45I should be delighted.
0:40:53 > 0:40:55< Suzanne...
0:40:55 > 0:41:01I saw a young girl run up the stairs, and now a young lady comes down.
0:41:01 > 0:41:06- It's nothing less than magic. - She's too big for spanking.
0:41:06 > 0:41:13I passed my sixteenth birthday, Monsieur Bel Ami. Do you approve of me?
0:41:13 > 0:41:18My daughter finds you irresistible, Monsieur.
0:41:21 > 0:41:24Now look at me.
0:41:24 > 0:41:27I want to see if you still care for me.
0:41:31 > 0:41:35I have a letter here that I want you to read.
0:41:40 > 0:41:43Read it.
0:41:46 > 0:41:51He never gives up, does he, your Gaston Rivault?
0:41:51 > 0:41:53It's not myself I'm thinking of.
0:41:53 > 0:41:58Monsieur Rivault is wealthy, one of the most respected citizens of Lyon.
0:41:58 > 0:42:01A good man, devoted and honourable.
0:42:01 > 0:42:07If I marry him, whatever may happen, Laurine's future will be assured.
0:42:07 > 0:42:10- Well, then?- Ought I to marry him?
0:42:10 > 0:42:13By all means.
0:42:13 > 0:42:19You know very well I have no intention of marrying him.
0:42:19 > 0:42:21Then there's no problem.
0:42:21 > 0:42:25Don't you understand it's you I want to marry?
0:42:29 > 0:42:31You cannot deny that you love me.
0:42:31 > 0:42:35Marriage and love are different.
0:42:35 > 0:42:40No, a marriage is the daily bread of the heart. It is great happiness.
0:42:40 > 0:42:43There's no money in happiness.
0:42:43 > 0:42:47If one desires money too much, it can poison your life.
0:42:47 > 0:42:50Give me your cigarette case.
0:42:50 > 0:42:57One day you will grow old. You will stretch out your arms for love, consolation. But no-one will come.
0:42:57 > 0:43:02Wouldn't you like children, like Laurine, who's so fond of you?
0:43:04 > 0:43:08What is it, then, that you want in life?
0:43:08 > 0:43:10Shall I tell you?
0:43:10 > 0:43:13I should like to know.
0:43:13 > 0:43:20When you marry, you want it to be in the Church of the Madeleine with all the wealth of Paris attending.
0:43:20 > 0:43:26You want to look across to the Chamber of Deputies, where your future lies.
0:43:26 > 0:43:32You cannot understand what Paris means to those who grew up in the provinces.
0:43:32 > 0:43:37We look toward Paris as the souls in purgatory look toward paradise.
0:43:37 > 0:43:44It's a war. One man against a great city. I must conquer Paris, or be conquered.
0:43:44 > 0:43:50Perhaps you could fight even better with me beside you.
0:43:51 > 0:43:54Perhaps.
0:43:56 > 0:43:59It fits perfectly.
0:43:59 > 0:44:04I had it made to fit. I can take the measure of your cigarette case
0:44:04 > 0:44:09and put my photograph in it, to remind you of me.
0:44:09 > 0:44:13By what arithmetic am I to measure YOU?
0:44:13 > 0:44:17Who will tell me the dimensions of the heart?
0:44:21 > 0:44:25I could be happy with you, Clotilde. I know that.
0:44:25 > 0:44:27Well, then...
0:44:27 > 0:44:32- Number 18, Monsieur.- My heart tells me that you're right.
0:44:32 > 0:44:37But I haven't listened to my heart for a long time.
0:44:38 > 0:44:41Do listen to it now, Bel Ami.
0:44:46 > 0:44:51'I am writing this letter because you told me I could count on you.
0:44:51 > 0:44:56'Will you come and help me during the last moments of my husband, who is dying?
0:44:56 > 0:45:02'I can only ask you as Charles has no relatives. You were his comrade.
0:45:02 > 0:45:09'He opened the door of the paper to you. Come, I beseech you. I have no-one else to ask.'
0:45:11 > 0:45:14I came just as quickly as I could.
0:45:14 > 0:45:17How is he?
0:45:22 > 0:45:24The priest is with him now.
0:45:26 > 0:45:28Is he so far gone?
0:45:32 > 0:45:35You will scarcely recognise him.
0:45:49 > 0:45:54I can hear all the bugle calls from the encampment,
0:45:54 > 0:45:56even see the warships in the bay.
0:45:59 > 0:46:04Look through my glasses there. You can make out the squadron.
0:46:04 > 0:46:07There's the Colbert, the Suffren,
0:46:07 > 0:46:09the Admiral-Duperre,
0:46:09 > 0:46:12and the Redoubtable.
0:46:12 > 0:46:15It's beautiful, isn't it?
0:46:15 > 0:46:18And over there is Africa.
0:46:18 > 0:46:23GHOSTLY SINGING: "Aupres De Ma Blonde"
0:46:23 > 0:46:25Sounds familiar, doesn't it?
0:46:25 > 0:46:28They're always passing here.
0:46:28 > 0:46:32You remember how we rode and sang, Georges?
0:46:32 > 0:46:35You and I, this old accordion.
0:46:35 > 0:46:40# Aupres de ma blonde Qu'il fait bon, fait bon, fait bon
0:46:40 > 0:46:44# Aupres de ma blonde Qu'il fait bon dormir... #
0:46:44 > 0:46:48GHOSTLY SINGING CONTINUES
0:46:52 > 0:46:57SINGING GRADUALLY FADES
0:47:00 > 0:47:03The sun will be shining.
0:47:03 > 0:47:11The glow of springtime in the sky. Carriages will pass in the street. A breeze will blow the curtain.
0:47:11 > 0:47:13But I...
0:47:13 > 0:47:15Charles Forestier...
0:47:15 > 0:47:19will be here no more, as though I'd never existed.
0:47:19 > 0:47:22You're not so bad as all that.
0:47:22 > 0:47:27I can see death so near, I want to reach out my arms, push it back.
0:47:30 > 0:47:33Madeleine...
0:48:02 > 0:48:05How clear the night is.
0:48:05 > 0:48:08It's almost as bright as day.
0:48:09 > 0:48:14Over there in Africa when we were soldiers together,
0:48:14 > 0:48:18Charles risked his life every day, but no harm came to him.
0:48:21 > 0:48:26- A cigarette might help me. Would it be wrong to smoke?- I don't think so.
0:49:00 > 0:49:05I must ask you to listen to me for a moment.
0:49:05 > 0:49:11Try to understand and do not be indignant at my speaking at such a moment.
0:49:11 > 0:49:16You may make a decision about your future before I see you in Paris.
0:49:16 > 0:49:19You are aware of my feeling for you.
0:49:19 > 0:49:27When we talked about Echoes, I had the vision of a life that brought work and sentiment together happily.
0:49:27 > 0:49:35I hoped that such a prospect might please you. This is not a proposal. At this time, that would be odious.
0:49:35 > 0:49:40But you can make me happy with a word. My heart and myself are yours.
0:49:53 > 0:49:55Have I offended you?
0:49:57 > 0:49:59No.
0:50:03 > 0:50:09I do not wish you to go away without an answer, but I'm not prepared to say yes or no.
0:50:09 > 0:50:18I have felt that our collaboration could be a happy one, but you must understand what sort of woman I am.
0:50:18 > 0:50:21Marriage, for me, is a partnership.
0:50:21 > 0:50:23I must be free, perfectly free,
0:50:23 > 0:50:26as to my ways, my comings and goings.
0:50:26 > 0:50:29I must be an equal, an ally,
0:50:29 > 0:50:33not an inferior or an obedient and submissive wife.
0:50:33 > 0:50:38My notions are not everyone's, but I shall not change them.
0:50:38 > 0:50:41You must consider all this carefully.
0:50:41 > 0:50:47I do not wish you to change. It is as you are that I came to love you.
0:50:47 > 0:50:52You are free to make this proposal? You have no other attachments?
0:50:52 > 0:50:54I have no attachments.
0:50:57 > 0:51:00We think that love is given to us.
0:51:00 > 0:51:05It is not. It is sold to us at the cost of the most cruel tortures.
0:51:05 > 0:51:12You told me that Madeleine would be a treasure for anyone. You said that yourself at the Reine Blanche.
0:51:12 > 0:51:15When will you be married?
0:51:15 > 0:51:22We shall go next week to Rouen, where my father lives, and be married in a registry office.
0:51:22 > 0:51:29There will be no witnesses except my father and Madeleine's friend, the Count de Vaudrec.
0:51:33 > 0:51:36PIANO PLAYS
0:51:36 > 0:51:41# The lark sings in the morning
0:51:41 > 0:51:45# The robin sings in the day
0:51:45 > 0:51:51# The nightingale sings in the moonlight
0:51:51 > 0:51:54# But my heart sings
0:51:54 > 0:51:57# Night and day
0:51:57 > 0:52:02# The lark sings in the morning
0:52:02 > 0:52:07# The robin sings in the day
0:52:07 > 0:52:12# The nightingale sings in the moonlight
0:52:12 > 0:52:15# But my heart sings
0:52:15 > 0:52:17# Night and day. #
0:52:30 > 0:52:38I'm glad you're home early. I've had news from Morocco. I got it from Laroche-Mathieu at Mme Walter's tea.
0:52:38 > 0:52:41We must work up an article at once.
0:52:41 > 0:52:48Your article will be a campaign against the ministry. It'll end by making Laroche-Mathieu a minister.
0:52:48 > 0:52:53- He will make our fortunes.- I'd be glad if it was someone less stupid.
0:52:53 > 0:53:00- Your ears should have been burning. Mme Walter is smitten with you. - Nonsense.- It's so.
0:53:00 > 0:53:02She spoke of you with enthusiasm.
0:53:02 > 0:53:10- She wants a husband like you for her daughter, who would be willing. - Her father would be unwilling.
0:53:10 > 0:53:15She's aiming very high. Nothing less than a count or marquis will do.
0:53:15 > 0:53:19- Or a baron. - The title presents no difficulty.
0:53:19 > 0:53:21How so?
0:53:21 > 0:53:28- There are ways of acquiring a title. - To be sure. - Noble names are available to anyone
0:53:28 > 0:53:31if the family's died out.
0:53:31 > 0:53:38- Just visit the Keeper of the Seals and place an advertisement.- "Any protest must be made in one year."
0:53:38 > 0:53:46In case someone born to the title is hidden away, he has one year to make himself known, and object.
0:53:46 > 0:53:50- Have you been considering it? - The time has not come for that.
0:53:50 > 0:53:58- She fancied me - Mme Walter?- Anyone else, I would be alarmed. With her, such things are of no moment.- How?
0:53:58 > 0:54:03Mme Walter has never had a whisper about her. She's so perfect,
0:54:03 > 0:54:07- I could throw her out of the window. - All angels become women again.
0:54:07 > 0:54:12I might learn something from her about old Walter's schemes.
0:54:12 > 0:54:16We have more important things to talk about.
0:54:28 > 0:54:32GEORGES WHISTLES: "Aupres De Ma Blonde"
0:54:39 > 0:54:41Forestier!
0:54:48 > 0:54:53Oh, I beg your pardon, Duroy. It's you I want to speak to.
0:54:53 > 0:54:58I'm always mixing you up with poor Charles Forestier.
0:54:58 > 0:55:03It's because your articles are so infernally like his, I suppose.
0:55:03 > 0:55:06Potin, put that gentleman here.
0:55:06 > 0:55:11There are all sorts of fools and envious people in this world.
0:55:11 > 0:55:13Yes, I see that I was right.
0:55:13 > 0:55:16The resemblance is remarkable.
0:55:19 > 0:55:27Lend me a piece of your chalk, Jacques. Certain individuals here think it funny to call me Forestier.
0:55:28 > 0:55:31I begin to find it very stupid.
0:55:31 > 0:55:34However, I have a peaceful nature
0:55:34 > 0:55:39and I wish to prevent matters from going to painful extremes.
0:55:39 > 0:55:45I'm no longer in the 6th Hussars, but I've not lost my skill with firearms.
0:55:51 > 0:55:58I will slap the face of the first person who makes the mistake of calling me Forestier again.
0:55:58 > 0:56:04Monsieur Laroche-Mathieu can decide if it's worth risking a bullet for.
0:56:06 > 0:56:13You will need yellow crayon, Jacques, for your next caricature of Laroche-Mathieu.
0:56:13 > 0:56:16LIVELY PIANO MUSIC
0:56:27 > 0:56:30PIANO MUSIC DROWNS OUT SPEECH
0:56:46 > 0:56:53- How have you been during the century that has passed since we last met?- Well. And you, Bel Ami?
0:56:53 > 0:56:57- Allow me to call him Bel Ami. - Whatever you please.
0:56:57 > 0:57:02Permit him to escort me to my carriage. Goodbye, Madeleine.
0:57:02 > 0:57:05Goodbye, Clotilde.
0:57:15 > 0:57:18How do you like your new life?
0:57:18 > 0:57:25Not much. We are a success. We've overthrown the cabinet and made Laroche-Mathieu a minister.
0:57:25 > 0:57:32I'm a celebrity. My wife presides over a distinguished political salon. A practical partnership.
0:57:32 > 0:57:35Nothing more?
0:57:35 > 0:57:37Nothing more.
0:57:41 > 0:57:43Wait.
0:57:48 > 0:57:50Remember this?
0:57:55 > 0:57:59Why should you want me to see Madeleine's picture?
0:57:59 > 0:58:03Look under Madeleine's picture.
0:58:16 > 0:58:19You see how it is?
0:58:19 > 0:58:24- You haven't changed, then? - Not for a moment. And you?
0:58:24 > 0:58:28As if I could ever stop loving you.
0:58:45 > 0:58:48You'll visit us again?
0:59:34 > 0:59:38My carriage doesn't seem to have come as yet.
0:59:38 > 0:59:43That is my good fortune. I shall have a moment with you.
0:59:45 > 0:59:48Why do you look at me so strangely?
0:59:52 > 0:59:56I want always to remember this time, this place.
0:59:56 > 1:00:02The trees, the street. This moment, an island in the stream of time.
1:00:02 > 1:00:07- What on earth are you talking about? - Can't you guess?- No.
1:00:07 > 1:00:13- What makes this moment so important? - I have made a decision. Look away,
1:00:13 > 1:00:16and I will tell you what it is.
1:00:17 > 1:00:24- Regardless of convention, or what you may think of me, I shall declare myself.- To me?
1:00:24 > 1:00:27To you.
1:00:27 > 1:00:30- You must be mad.- I'm sure of it.
1:00:30 > 1:00:36I've wanted to say this for a long time, but I dared not. They say you're so proper.
1:00:36 > 1:00:39I shall remember this moment also.
1:00:39 > 1:00:41- Then you're not offended?- No.
1:00:41 > 1:00:44You understand my feeling?
1:00:44 > 1:00:47- I understand it.- You return it?
1:00:47 > 1:00:51- You do not deny it? - HOOVES CLATTER >
1:01:01 > 1:01:06- When shall I see you? - I dare not see you.- I MUST see you.
1:01:06 > 1:01:14- It's impossible.- Tomorrow afternoon in the Parc Monceau. A chance encounter in a public garden.
1:01:14 > 1:01:19I shall be at the Cathedral of Notre Dame tomorrow at half past three.
1:01:25 > 1:01:30'I have lighted a fire in an old, soot-filled chimney.'
1:01:30 > 1:01:33SOLEMN ORGAN MUSIC
1:02:41 > 1:02:49Madame de Varenne? You're surprised to see me here. Do not be alarmed. I'm not a reformed character.
1:02:49 > 1:02:51Are you quite sure of that?
1:02:51 > 1:02:58May I ask you something? I've been puzzled about you ever since I first saw you with your husband.
1:02:58 > 1:03:05- You are not like other women. - What are other women like? - Usually, incredibly stupid.
1:03:05 > 1:03:11They can be caught by a look, a compliment - anything that touches their vanity.
1:03:11 > 1:03:17But you are different. I saw that you were not taken in by such devices.
1:03:17 > 1:03:21Why should you wish to take me in at all?
1:03:21 > 1:03:26- I could not help you to gain money or position.- You do me an injustice.
1:03:26 > 1:03:28Wait. Why do you smile?
1:03:28 > 1:03:30Because you're ridiculous.
1:03:30 > 1:03:35Why should a woman marry a man who cannot see she is beautiful?
1:03:35 > 1:03:42It seems unnatural to me. What made you waste your beauty on a man who is blind?
1:03:42 > 1:03:48- How is one to explain such a thing to a man like you?- Try.
1:03:50 > 1:03:53ORGAN MUSIC CONTINUES
1:03:59 > 1:04:03I admire his mind and I love his soul.
1:04:03 > 1:04:07He has a quality in him you could never comprehend.
1:04:07 > 1:04:11- What is that quality? - A kind of...
1:04:11 > 1:04:15grace, that comes from being gentle and good,
1:04:15 > 1:04:21and faith that endures in spite of men and of experience.
1:04:21 > 1:04:26If he should die, surely you could find someone else to adore.
1:04:26 > 1:04:31One moment more. What do you think of me, really?
1:04:32 > 1:04:35I think you're contemptible.
1:04:35 > 1:04:40As for you, I think you're probably the only good woman I've ever known.
1:04:40 > 1:04:43I am sorry for you, Monsieur.
1:04:43 > 1:04:46There are millions of us.
1:04:54 > 1:04:56Bel Ami!
1:05:12 > 1:05:14- I'll do that.- Yes, sir.
1:05:20 > 1:05:26- You've hardly spoken a word.- Have you forgotten our understanding?
1:05:26 > 1:05:31We were carried away by our emotion. We've been guilty of a betrayal.
1:05:31 > 1:05:37- We agreed to atone by burying our feelings.- I must at least see you.
1:05:37 > 1:05:44- We meet socially.- Does that satisfy you?- Anything more would be indiscreet.- I have been discreet.
1:05:44 > 1:05:51- You call it discreet to summon me to hasty meetings?- It is only to see you for a moment.
1:05:51 > 1:05:58Or to write me letters full of pet names, to wait for me in a cab with the blinds drawn?
1:05:58 > 1:06:00You're right.
1:06:00 > 1:06:03It's a kind of madness.
1:06:03 > 1:06:05And now this telegram.
1:06:05 > 1:06:13"Must see you today. Meet me at two o'clock, Cafe Riche. Can render you a service." What's so important?
1:06:13 > 1:06:19I came to tell you news to put you in the way of gaining 50,000 francs.
1:06:19 > 1:06:24- How so?- I caught some words between my husband and Laroche-Mathieu.
1:06:24 > 1:06:29- They agreed not to let you into the secret.- What secret?
1:06:29 > 1:06:31They are going to take Morocco.
1:06:31 > 1:06:38Nonsense. I've written articles for Laroche-Mathieu designed to create the opposite impression.
1:06:38 > 1:06:43- They are humbugging you so their plan might not be known.- What plan?
1:06:43 > 1:06:49Your articles depress the stock market. They're buying up the Morocco loan.
1:06:49 > 1:06:52An expedition is to take place.
1:06:52 > 1:07:00- When we are there, the government will guarantee the debt. They will gain millions.- And they leave me out.
1:07:00 > 1:07:04Monsieur Walter is not a man. He is a cash-box.
1:07:07 > 1:07:09We ought to profit by this.
1:07:09 > 1:07:15- Buy some of the loan.- I haven't any money.- Let me lend you some.
1:07:15 > 1:07:20- I can't.- I'll invest 20,000 francs. You shall stand in for half.
1:07:20 > 1:07:24I will use my own money. Walter will not know.
1:07:24 > 1:07:30- If it succeeds, you will gain 70,000 francs. If not, you will owe me 10,000.- I don't like it.
1:07:30 > 1:07:35Your articles made it possible. It would be foolish not to profit by it.
1:07:35 > 1:07:43- You have rendered them services. - Very well. But if we lose, I will repay you for 10,000 francs.
1:07:45 > 1:07:49Eat your dessert before it is completely cold.
1:07:53 > 1:07:57I shall tell you about a dream I had of you last night.
1:07:59 > 1:08:04I was travelling in a train at night through a mysterious forest.
1:08:04 > 1:08:09It was a very long train, but I seemed to be the only passenger.
1:08:09 > 1:08:16We stopped at a deserted station surrounded by dark trees. I closed my suitcase.
1:08:16 > 1:08:21I stepped onto the platform. I knew that you would be there to meet me.
1:08:21 > 1:08:26That swine Laroche-Mathieu! I could skin him alive for his treachery.
1:08:28 > 1:08:33I dreamed that we were taking a journey together across the desert.
1:08:33 > 1:08:38We were riding on two camels and we had some sandwiches and wine.
1:08:38 > 1:08:43It annoyed me. We were too far off from each other on our camels.
1:08:43 > 1:08:46- I wanted to get down.- So do I.
1:08:46 > 1:08:50You've brought one of Madeleine's hairs.
1:08:50 > 1:08:54No, it isn't Madeleine's. It's too dark.
1:08:54 > 1:09:01- Very likely the maid's.- You've been with a woman who has wound her hair round your buttons.- Ridiculous.
1:09:01 > 1:09:06She loves you, and she wanted you to take something belonging to her.
1:09:06 > 1:09:11- You're being very silly. - You're not faithful to Madeleine.
1:09:11 > 1:09:13I don't know anything about it.
1:09:13 > 1:09:18- Have a ring made out of her hair! And all the others!- Wait.
1:09:24 > 1:09:30"I love you so much that your cruelty is dearer to me than the love of others.
1:09:32 > 1:09:38"There is nothing you could do that I would not be willing to forgive.
1:09:41 > 1:09:46"I shall hide from you the terrible jealousy that kindles in my heart.
1:09:46 > 1:09:51"If I must weep, I shall hold a curtain between you and my tears.
1:09:51 > 1:09:56"I shall make sacrifices, including the sacrifice of my self-love.
1:09:56 > 1:10:03"I give you my pride, dear Bel Ami, together with my love, which will never change."
1:10:03 > 1:10:08I suppose you meant those words at the time you wrote them.
1:10:16 > 1:10:18What a brute you are.
1:10:21 > 1:10:25Your minister, Laroche-Mathieu, let us down nicely.
1:10:25 > 1:10:31- He's no more my minister than yours. - He doesn't pay court to me.- Or me.
1:10:31 > 1:10:36If I chose from your admirers, I'd prefer that old fossil de Vaudrec.
1:10:36 > 1:10:38What has become of the Count?
1:10:52 > 1:10:57That old fossil de Vaudrec died an hour ago.
1:10:57 > 1:10:59De Vaudrec?
1:10:59 > 1:11:07He had a heart attack last night. They sent for me this morning. I've just come from his deathbed.
1:11:18 > 1:11:26"Having no heirs, I leave the whole of my fortune, consisting of stock to the amount of 600,000 francs,
1:11:26 > 1:11:34"and property worth about 500,000 francs, to Madame Madeleine Duroy, without any charge or condition."
1:11:34 > 1:11:41It is understood, Monsieur, that your wife cannot accept this legacy without your consent.
1:11:44 > 1:11:46I must ask time to reflect.
1:12:02 > 1:12:05Just what was the Count de Vaudrec to you?
1:12:05 > 1:12:11He knew me from my childhood, and my parents. He was like a father to me.
1:12:17 > 1:12:24- You seem more affected by his death than by that of your husband. - Charles was ill. I was prepared.
1:12:24 > 1:12:27De Vaudrec died so suddenly.
1:12:28 > 1:12:34When a man leaves his fortune to a woman, it cannot be ignored.
1:12:34 > 1:12:36It requires some explanation.
1:12:36 > 1:12:41He left it to me because he had no relatives. He was very fond of me.
1:12:41 > 1:12:44But there was nothing more. Never.
1:12:49 > 1:12:52I'm prepared to believe you.
1:12:52 > 1:12:59But do you suppose anyone else will? The world will gossip and laugh at me. I cannot accept that.
1:12:59 > 1:13:06Then let us not accept it. There will be a million less in our pockets. That is all.
1:13:09 > 1:13:11Perhaps you're right.
1:13:21 > 1:13:24- I have the solution.- Yes?
1:13:24 > 1:13:31- We say that he divided the money between us.- How can that be done? The will is plain.- Very simple.
1:13:31 > 1:13:39- Sign half the inheritance to me by a deed of gift. We'll stop scandal. - The will is there.- Need we show it?
1:13:39 > 1:13:45Paste it on the walls? We'll simply say he left his fortune between us.
1:13:48 > 1:13:51Very well, if that is what you wish.
1:13:51 > 1:13:56He left it equally to us to show that his feeling was Platonic.
1:13:56 > 1:14:01- If he'd thought of it, that is what he'd have done.- Go to the notary.
1:14:01 > 1:14:04- You think so?- By all means.
1:14:09 > 1:14:12Behold a millionaire.
1:14:34 > 1:14:37Have you the invitation?
1:14:39 > 1:14:45"Monsieur and Madame Walter beg your company on December 30th between 9 and 12pm,
1:14:45 > 1:14:52"to view the painting Temptation Of Saint Anthony illuminated by electric lights." Electric lights!
1:14:52 > 1:14:57It's clever, that painting. The critics say it's a masterpiece.
1:14:57 > 1:15:05Walter paid 400,000 francs for it. Titled hypocrites have an excuse to enter the home of the new Croesus.
1:15:05 > 1:15:11And to see his daughter, the heiress. To become a king, one has only to marry that puppet.
1:15:11 > 1:15:18- Suzanne has had two offers, one from a marquis and one from a count. - It'll be infested with counts.
1:15:18 > 1:15:25You haven't been there for months. Mme Walter complained to me about it.
1:15:25 > 1:15:31Mme Walter doesn't keep me away. Monsieur Walter and Laroche-Mathieu played us a scurvy trick.
1:15:31 > 1:15:34They cleaned up. We got nothing.
1:15:34 > 1:15:41- Why make Mme Walter suffer? There's no reason to be cruel to her. - The best of reasons. She bores me.
1:15:46 > 1:15:54We are so happy that you came. You'll find the painting in a small drawing room beyond the conservatory.
1:15:54 > 1:16:00I hope you can stay for the dance. Virginia, I have never seen so many celebrities at once.
1:16:00 > 1:16:06I'll speak to Laroche-Mathieu. His defence of the African campaign...
1:16:06 > 1:16:14- Who's that with Suzanne? - Marquis de Cazolles.- An impoverished aristocrat fishing for 40 millions.
1:16:16 > 1:16:22- At last, Bel Ami. Why do we never see you any more?- I've been busy.
1:16:22 > 1:16:27It is wicked of you to neglect us. When you are not here, I am bored.
1:16:27 > 1:16:32Come along and I will take you to see our painting of Saint Anthony.
1:16:57 > 1:16:59Yes.
1:16:59 > 1:17:06When HE said that, my mother did the most fantastic thing. She kissed his hand.
1:17:06 > 1:17:13The painting cast a spell over her. She says no-one can understand the struggle with temptation as she can.
1:17:13 > 1:17:18Imagine that from my mother, who never had a temptation in her life.
1:17:18 > 1:17:22She adores the painting. She spends hours here alone,
1:17:22 > 1:17:25just looking at it.
1:17:28 > 1:17:31You're not listening to me at all.
1:17:31 > 1:17:36Your thoughts are miles away. What is it you're thinking of?
1:17:36 > 1:17:42- I've decided to embark on a daring adventure.- May I come along?
1:17:43 > 1:17:46Yes, if you have the courage.
1:17:46 > 1:17:49It'll take a great deal of courage.
1:17:58 > 1:18:01- I have a surprise.- What is it?
1:18:01 > 1:18:04- Guess.- I shall make no such effort.
1:18:04 > 1:18:10- The day after tomorrow is the 1st of January.- Yes. - The time for New Year's gifts.- Yes.
1:18:10 > 1:18:16Here's one from Laroche-Mathieu. He gave it to me at the reception.
1:18:16 > 1:18:23- The Cross of the Legion of Honour. - It's a big thing.- I should prefer ten millions. That didn't cost much.
1:18:23 > 1:18:27You're incredible. Nothing satisfies you any more.
1:18:27 > 1:18:32He still owes me. Do you mind if I make a suggestion?
1:18:32 > 1:18:36- What? - Laroche-Mathieu is taken with you.
1:18:36 > 1:18:41- Nonsense.- We ought to take advantage so that he doesn't fool us again.
1:18:41 > 1:18:43What do you suggest?
1:18:43 > 1:18:50Encourage him. Yield him no favours, but lead him on so that he confides in you.
1:18:50 > 1:18:53He won't play any more tricks on us.
1:18:53 > 1:18:56And have you no fear of me?
1:18:56 > 1:18:58Do you trust me so far?
1:19:02 > 1:19:05I trust you.
1:19:13 > 1:19:18You are acting against the Minister of Foreign Affairs?
1:19:18 > 1:19:21He'll not be that much longer.
1:19:21 > 1:19:26- To destroy a career. What a waste. - My wife - how did she receive you?
1:19:26 > 1:19:32- She stated that the rendezvous was made at your suggestion. - What a fantastic idea.- Yes.
1:19:32 > 1:19:37- Let her tell that to the divorce court.- I am at your disposal.
1:19:50 > 1:19:55You're even cleverer and more dangerous than I had supposed.
1:19:55 > 1:20:02When you have your freedom, who will you marry? A princess, perhaps? Or a banker's daughter?
1:20:04 > 1:20:07Not Suzanne Walter?
1:20:07 > 1:20:10You will be disappointed there.
1:20:10 > 1:20:15Her father needs a better name than Georges Duroy to match his millions.
1:20:15 > 1:20:19I remember. You told me once how to obtain a title.
1:20:19 > 1:20:23Good evening. Will you join me in a nightcap?
1:20:23 > 1:20:27And you wear the Cross of Honour that I gave you.
1:20:27 > 1:20:32You were paying a debt, but you did not pay in full. So I collected.
1:20:32 > 1:20:38- What do you propose?- My application for divorce will name you.
1:20:38 > 1:20:43Tonight I'll write an article which will tumble you from your pedestal.
1:20:43 > 1:20:46I am not without resources.
1:20:46 > 1:20:51Do not underestimate the extent of your ruin. You are done for.
1:20:51 > 1:20:55- Permanently. - Monsieur Walter...- He is a realist.
1:20:55 > 1:21:00He wastes no time on lost causes. He will ask for your resignation.
1:21:00 > 1:21:04No doubt. But you will fight the case?
1:21:04 > 1:21:10No. I shall not allow your name to be subjected to his accusations.
1:21:10 > 1:21:12I applaud your discretion.
1:21:12 > 1:21:20I shall offer myself as a candidate in the elections. From obscurity, follow my career. I shall get on.
1:21:20 > 1:21:24Yes, you will get on. You are an unmitigated cad.
1:21:27 > 1:21:33One day you will make a mistake. Scoundrels like you end by falling into their own traps.
1:21:35 > 1:21:38Goodbye, Madeleine.
1:21:42 > 1:21:44Goodbye...
1:21:44 > 1:21:47Bel Ami.
1:21:49 > 1:21:53PIANO PLAYING: "Bel Ami"
1:22:04 > 1:22:06I should like to be announced.
1:22:09 > 1:22:12Monsieur Duroy.
1:22:19 > 1:22:22< Why have you become so formal?
1:22:22 > 1:22:25You are quite at home here.
1:22:25 > 1:22:30- You are not accustomed to being announced.- My visit is formal.
1:22:30 > 1:22:36- Very dramatic.- This is perhaps the most important moment of my life.
1:22:38 > 1:22:43I want to read a notice I inserted in the newspaper six months ago.
1:22:43 > 1:22:48"Georges Duroy is about to apply to the Keeper of the Seals
1:22:48 > 1:22:52"for permission to add to his name that of de Cantel.
1:22:52 > 1:22:58"Any protest must be made to the Keeper of the Seals within a year."
1:22:58 > 1:23:01Georges Duroy de Cantel. I like that.
1:23:01 > 1:23:04De Cantel is an old, noble name.
1:23:04 > 1:23:09I'm told the family's died out. In six months, the name will be mine.
1:23:09 > 1:23:16- You ought to make a brilliant marriage. - It'll enable me to follow my heart.
1:23:16 > 1:23:21The name I can offer is nobler than that of the Marquis de Cazolles.
1:23:21 > 1:23:28- In six months time, it'll be mine. - The Marquis de Cazolles? What has he to do with it?
1:23:28 > 1:23:34When it belongs to your grandchildren, no-one will question their right to it.
1:23:34 > 1:23:37My grandchildren?
1:23:40 > 1:23:42It's true, Father.
1:23:42 > 1:23:47I love Bel Ami, and I want to marry him.
1:23:47 > 1:23:49He's free to marry me.
1:23:49 > 1:23:52You wanted a noble name,
1:23:52 > 1:23:55and he's acquired that, too.
1:23:55 > 1:23:57You always sing his praises.
1:23:57 > 1:24:00Don't prevent our happiness.
1:24:00 > 1:24:03All this is common sense, Monsieur.
1:24:03 > 1:24:10It was you who made her refuse the Marquis de Cazolles. You think her dowry worth trying for.
1:24:10 > 1:24:14I am sincerely in love with Suzanne. She knows that.
1:24:14 > 1:24:17If you refuse,
1:24:17 > 1:24:21I swear I shall never marry anyone else.
1:24:42 > 1:24:45I am sorry, Monsieur.
1:24:45 > 1:24:47Deeply sorry.
1:24:54 > 1:24:57It is YOU who are responsible.
1:24:57 > 1:25:05You were always luring him here, flattering him. It was Bel Ami here, Bel Ami there, morning till night.
1:25:05 > 1:25:08This is the return for it.
1:25:12 > 1:25:18I know how great a shock this is. On second thoughts, you'll realise
1:25:18 > 1:25:21I'll make an excellent son-in-law.
1:25:21 > 1:25:24I'll be more than a son-in-law.
1:25:24 > 1:25:29I'll be a collaborator. We'll build the Vie Francaise into an empire.
1:25:39 > 1:25:41Come here, my child.
1:25:47 > 1:25:52Is this what you need to make you happy? Yes, Father.
1:25:55 > 1:25:57I had a different dream for you.
1:25:57 > 1:26:00But who knows?
1:26:02 > 1:26:04Perhaps you shall not regret it.
1:26:04 > 1:26:10With such a man, one never knows what may happen. Then you consent?
1:26:10 > 1:26:16I might make a better choice as regards position, but not prospects.
1:26:16 > 1:26:20He will be a deputy and a minister.
1:26:22 > 1:26:25I consent.
1:26:27 > 1:26:30I want to talk to your mother.
1:26:30 > 1:26:37You'll find her at the painting of Saint Anthony. It's a mania with her.
1:26:41 > 1:26:45Monsieur Walter has given his consent.
1:26:45 > 1:26:48It is all suddenly so clear to me.
1:26:48 > 1:26:51Clotilde,
1:26:51 > 1:26:54Madeleine, and now Suzanne.
1:26:54 > 1:27:00You're distressed now, but in time you will become accustomed to the idea.
1:27:02 > 1:27:09I hate you. I did not know that it was possible to hate anyone as much as I hate you.
1:27:19 > 1:27:23You are the Mayor of Canteleu? Yes, Madame.
1:27:23 > 1:27:30You know the name de Cantel? The region once belonged to the de Cantel family.
1:27:30 > 1:27:35There is no-one alive today? The last went into the forest.
1:27:35 > 1:27:42Where is he now? He disappeared four years ago. It's thought he went to Africa.
1:27:42 > 1:27:44No-one knows if he's alive.
1:27:44 > 1:27:50If he should return, give him this. Someone is stealing his name.
1:27:50 > 1:27:56He still has a few months in which to protest. Thank you, Monsieur.
1:27:56 > 1:28:01Madame, why do you do this for a man who's a stranger to you?
1:28:01 > 1:28:03To prevent a still greater wrong.
1:28:07 > 1:28:14How brilliant Gautier was. "A woman is a toy which will pick itself up if you should let it fall."
1:28:14 > 1:28:19- I'm not in the mood for quotations from Gautier.- No, but be reasonable.
1:28:19 > 1:28:25Reasonable? For years I have been in love with you, waiting for you.
1:28:28 > 1:28:33What is the most difficult thing to get, the thing we pay most for,
1:28:33 > 1:28:38the thing we fight for, the thing we only obtain by genius, by luck,
1:28:38 > 1:28:42by meanness, by wild efforts, energy, audacity or work?
1:28:42 > 1:28:45It's money.
1:28:45 > 1:28:50Yet there is a way of getting it without any fatigue, without genius,
1:28:50 > 1:28:55simply and naturally, and that way is by marriage.
1:28:55 > 1:28:58I despise that form of marriage.
1:28:59 > 1:29:02I cannot afford to despise it.
1:29:02 > 1:29:09- Victory in this world is to the strong. One must be strong. - Strong? You call that strength?
1:29:09 > 1:29:16- Egotism as regards fortune is better than egotism as regards love.- You call it strength.
1:29:16 > 1:29:18Strong men do not descend to that.
1:29:18 > 1:29:26You are not strong. You are sly. You weave plots, invent schemes. You're no better than a sneak thief.
1:29:26 > 1:29:30- I'm not sure that I like your saying that.- A thief.
1:29:30 > 1:29:36You deceive. You filch enjoyment wherever you can. That is stealing.
1:29:36 > 1:29:39- Be quiet.- I will not be quiet.
1:29:39 > 1:29:47You robbed Madeleine of half her inheritance. You stole Walter's fortune. Even your name is stolen.
1:29:47 > 1:29:55- Be quiet.- You behave like a cad to me, and you make out that I'm not to tell you so. You stole my life.
1:29:55 > 1:30:03- My whole life!- Will you be quiet? - I'll shout it from the rooftops! Let all Paris know! Thief! Thief!
1:30:08 > 1:30:10SOBBING
1:30:29 > 1:30:31Someone steals my name,
1:30:31 > 1:30:39and because a year passes before I see the warning, I cannot make the scoundrel give my name up again.
1:30:40 > 1:30:42That is the case exactly.
1:30:42 > 1:30:48Where can I find this thief who calls himself by the name de Cantel?
1:30:52 > 1:30:55"Frances the King,
1:30:55 > 1:30:58"to Gaston de Cantel,
1:30:58 > 1:31:00"1515."
1:31:02 > 1:31:07"A de Cantel would rather fight a battle
1:31:07 > 1:31:09"than tell of it."
1:31:11 > 1:31:18- Where can I find him? - You'll find him at the office of the Vie Francaise, Boulevard Poisonniere.
1:31:18 > 1:31:21One moment, Monsieur.
1:31:21 > 1:31:26I've thought of a gentleman who'd be happy to take you there.
1:31:29 > 1:31:31Twenty-three.
1:31:31 > 1:31:34Twenty-four.
1:31:34 > 1:31:36Twenty-five... Ah!
1:31:36 > 1:31:39We have a distinguished visitor.
1:31:39 > 1:31:44Twenty-six. The ex-minister... Twenty-seven. ..of Foreign Affairs.
1:31:44 > 1:31:46Twenty-eight.
1:31:46 > 1:31:52- Twenty-nine.- Do you call yourself Duroy de Cantel?- That is my name.
1:31:52 > 1:31:54My name is Philippe de Cantel.
1:32:12 > 1:32:16Cowards find brave men to do their work for them.
1:32:16 > 1:32:21I understand. You think there is a de Cantel too many. I agree.
1:32:21 > 1:32:25- Will you act for me, Jacques? - Of course.
1:32:25 > 1:32:31I represent the real de Cantel. I shall call on you within the hour.
1:32:31 > 1:32:36Where can he have sprung from? They said there were none of them left.
1:32:36 > 1:32:41- My lip is bleeding. He's a regular buffalo.- You'll choose the sword?
1:32:41 > 1:32:46- No.- He looks as if he hunts. He'll be accustomed to firearms.
1:32:46 > 1:32:51My enemies will try to make a scandal. I must kill this young man.
1:32:51 > 1:32:56It's the way to make my position good. I'll put a stop to everything.
1:32:56 > 1:32:59All stories, gossip. Everything.
1:32:59 > 1:33:06With a sword, I might just wound him. I'm a good shot. I'll put the bullet there, in the organs.
1:33:06 > 1:33:09A case of peritonitis.
1:33:09 > 1:33:13- Who do you want to take? Potin? - Count on me.
1:33:13 > 1:33:17Do not let this matter go beyond these walls.
1:33:17 > 1:33:20< Come along, Potin.
1:33:26 > 1:33:30Someone marked this paper and sent it to him.
1:34:06 > 1:34:11You must tell me what's wrong. Why have you brought me here?
1:34:11 > 1:34:18- We shall have rain. - The cab man must think we're insane. - Nothing surprises a cab driver.
1:34:18 > 1:34:21I don't understand you at all.
1:34:21 > 1:34:26I hardly expected to see you again. You get me out of bed in the night,
1:34:26 > 1:34:33- and bring me to the Bois du Vesinet. - I hate trees. This vegetation lives by devouring us.
1:34:33 > 1:34:35What a morbid idea.
1:34:35 > 1:34:38I made my will this afternoon.
1:34:38 > 1:34:44- But why? What has happened? - I provided for my old father. He doesn't need much.
1:34:44 > 1:34:48I left everything else to you and Laurine.
1:34:48 > 1:34:51What is it that threatens you?
1:34:51 > 1:34:54Are you in some danger?
1:34:54 > 1:34:57Ten.
1:34:57 > 1:35:01I had the idea, in any case, that I might die.
1:35:01 > 1:35:05But why? Why?
1:35:11 > 1:35:13Twenty-five.
1:35:15 > 1:35:18What is it, Bel Ami?
1:35:18 > 1:35:20Please tell me.
1:35:26 > 1:35:33I made an admission to myself tonight, an admission that I thought I ought to make to you.
1:35:33 > 1:35:39So I got you up in the middle of the night and brought you here.
1:35:41 > 1:35:44What sort of admission?
1:35:45 > 1:35:49There are two people in the world that I love.
1:35:49 > 1:35:52You, and little Laurine.
1:36:03 > 1:36:06That last time we met -
1:36:06 > 1:36:12if you could put that out of your mind and remember this instead.
1:36:29 > 1:36:33But what is all this talk of dying?
1:36:36 > 1:36:44No need to be alarmed. Quite the contrary. One never knows what may happen in a duel with pistols.
1:36:46 > 1:36:48A duel?
1:36:51 > 1:36:58I do not share your anxiety, Madame, and I shall not go to the Bois du Vesinet to make myself ridiculous.
1:36:58 > 1:37:03Have no fear for Bel Ami. He'll come out of this with his skin intact.
1:37:03 > 1:37:09Suzanne's interference would only embarrass him. Now I'm going to bed.
1:37:09 > 1:37:14But it is a duel with pistols and both men will shoot to kill.
1:37:14 > 1:37:18I have such a dreadful presentiment.
1:37:18 > 1:37:25Get him to give up this young man's name. Agree to marry him without it. Then he could withdraw with honour.
1:37:25 > 1:37:31- He thought the name had died out. - The name was only for Father's sake.
1:37:31 > 1:37:38- Later on, he can find another title that will please your father. - You make me ashamed.
1:37:38 > 1:37:46You love him, even though he is to marry me. Few would think more of his safety than of their own pride.
1:37:46 > 1:37:51If Father won't come with us, I'll get Paul de Cazolles.
1:37:51 > 1:37:53We must go at once.
1:37:57 > 1:38:00Hurry, or you'll be too late.
1:38:00 > 1:38:02But do not say who sent you.
1:38:07 > 1:38:14You are not to fire until the signal has been given. The signal will be the dropping of the handkerchief.
1:38:14 > 1:38:17You may then fire, if you wish.
1:38:17 > 1:38:24It is permitted, however, to advance ten paces to the point indicated by the walking stick before firing.
1:38:24 > 1:38:31If one of you is wounded, he is allowed one minute to fire from the moment he is hit.
1:38:31 > 1:38:38If he has fallen, he's allowed two minutes. His adversary must stand and receive his fire.
1:38:38 > 1:38:40Is everything clear?
1:38:40 > 1:38:43Potin, will you bring the pistols?
1:38:43 > 1:38:46Monsieur...
1:38:46 > 1:38:50The principals are not to address each other directly.
1:38:50 > 1:38:56Jacques, offer my adversary a cigar. A cigar puts the nerves in order.
1:38:56 > 1:38:59Monsieur?
1:38:59 > 1:39:02- I have no nerves. - I suspected as much.
1:39:02 > 1:39:11- I am distressed to see my adversary exposed to the rain. Will he accept one of our umbrellas?- Monsieur?
1:39:11 > 1:39:15I am used to shooting in foul weather.
1:39:15 > 1:39:22In that case, might I retain my umbrella? I should not like to quit the field with a case of sniffles.
1:39:22 > 1:39:25Monsieur?
1:39:25 > 1:39:28I have no objection.
1:39:28 > 1:39:34The pistols were obtained at Gastine Renette's. He loaded them and sealed the box
1:39:34 > 1:39:36in the presence of witnesses.
1:39:54 > 1:40:01Suggest to Monsieur Laroche-Mathieu that he observe from behind a tree.
1:40:01 > 1:40:04He presents a very tempting target.
1:40:05 > 1:40:09You will take your positions, gentlemen.
1:40:30 > 1:40:33Are you ready, gentlemen?
1:40:33 > 1:40:35Ready.
1:40:35 > 1:40:37Ready.
1:41:13 > 1:41:16I'm not done for yet!
1:41:25 > 1:41:28One minute and 30 seconds remaining.
1:41:57 > 1:42:00One minute.
1:42:20 > 1:42:2330 seconds.
1:42:51 > 1:42:53Fire! Fire!
1:44:07 > 1:44:10One moment. >
1:44:18 > 1:44:20Bel Ami?
1:44:22 > 1:44:26It was I who brought the newspaper to him.
1:44:31 > 1:44:34Do you understand, Bel Ami?
1:44:35 > 1:44:38I brought it to him.
1:44:47 > 1:44:49You see, Jacques?
1:44:51 > 1:44:54It's nothing.
1:44:55 > 1:44:57Just a scratch.
1:44:57 > 1:45:00I have been scratched...
1:45:03 > 1:45:05..by an old cat.
1:45:25 > 1:45:27Clotilde...
1:45:32 > 1:45:36I should have been happy with Clotilde.
1:45:45 > 1:45:50'We are all no more than puppets unless we believe.'