Mademoiselle Chambon 2010
Directed by
Stéphane Brizé
Made by
Lorber Films
Plot Summary
Jean is a dedicated builder living in the picturesque south of France, where he enjoys a happy life with his beloved wife and young son, while also caring for his elderly father. One day, when he has to pick up his son from school as his wife isn’t feeling well, he encounters Véronique, the class teacher. Véronique is a cultured yet solitary woman who often finds herself traveling to substitute for maternity leaves.
Upon hearing her need for a window repair, Jean promptly offers his help, fixing her window with his skilled hands. In a moment of intimacy, he requests that she play her violin for him, and as they share a sofa, they find themselves locking eyes, ultimately sharing a tender caress and a kiss. Regaining his senses, Jean goes home to his wife but is left haunted by thoughts of the beautiful and available Véronique.
Véronique too feels a longing for the simple and strong masculinity that Jean embodies. Captivated by her music, he invites her to perform at his father’s birthday celebration. After the event, they share an unexpected night together, deepening their connection. The following day, Véronique prepares to leave town, and a sense of urgency prompts Jean to chase after her.
He finds her waiting at the railway station platform, hoping he would come. However, Jean hesitates in a tunnel below, waiting until the train has left before finally gathering the courage to return home to his family.
Timeline
Jean's Happy Life
Jean is a dedicated builder who enjoys a fulfilling life in the beautiful region of southern France. He balances his work with family time, taking care of his beloved wife and young son, as well as his elderly father.
A Day at School
On a day when his wife is unwell, Jean takes the responsibility of picking up his son from school. This event leads him to cross paths with Véronique, the class teacher, sparking a significant connection.
Window Repair Offer
During their encounter, Véronique expresses her need for window repair, and Jean eagerly offers his help. With his skilled hands, he fixes her window, showcasing his talent and prompting a deeper interaction between them.
An Intimate Moment
While sharing a sofa after the repair, Jean requests Véronique to play her violin for him. As her music fills the air, the atmosphere becomes charged, leading to an intimate caress and a kiss, marking a pivotal moment in their relationship.
Haunting Thoughts
After the encounter, Jean returns home but is haunted by thoughts of Véronique. He struggles with the emotions stirred inside him, wanting to remain faithful to his family but unable to forget the passionate moment they shared.
A Musical Invitation
Despite his internal conflict, Jean invites Véronique to perform at his father's birthday celebration. This invitation illustrates his desire to deepen their connection through the shared experience of music and family.
Special Night Together
After the birthday celebration, Jean and Véronique share an unexpected night together. This experience deepens their emotional bond, intensifying the complexity of Jean's feelings towards both women in his life.
Departure Preparations
The next day, Véronique prepares to leave town, her departure casting a shadow over the connection they have formed. Jean feels a growing urgency to act on his feelings before she leaves his life for good.
Chasing After Love
In a moment of desperation, Jean rushes to the railway station to find Véronique. The urgency of the moment illustrates his internal struggle as he fights with his commitment to his family and his desire for Véronique.
A Hesitant Decision
At the railway station, Jean finds Véronique waiting for him, wishing he would choose her. However, trapped in a tunnel below, he hesitates and ultimately watches the train depart, choosing to return to his family instead.
Reflection on Choices
With the train having left and Véronique out of reach, Jean reflects on his choices. He realizes that his responsibilities and love for his family outweigh the passionate encounter he had with Véronique.
Returning to Family
Jean gathers his thoughts and resolves to return home to his wife and son. This decision reinforces the theme of commitment and the challenges of desire in the face of family obligations.
Characters
Jean
Jean is a devoted family man and skilled builder, embodying a strong yet sensitive persona. He finds himself in an emotional turmoil as he grapples with unexpected feelings for Véronique. His character reflects the complexity of balancing love, responsibility, and desire.
Véronique
Véronique is a cultured and solitary schoolteacher who longs for genuine connection. Through her encounters with Jean, she reveals a depth of emotion and a yearning for the simple masculinity he represents. Her character illustrates the balance of vulnerability and strength.
Setting
Time period
The movie portrays a contemporary setting, where everyday lives intertwine with emotional complexities and relational dynamics. Modern themes of familial duty and personal desire are explored against a backdrop of a seemingly peaceful life.
Location
South of France
The south of France is renowned for its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and vibrant culture. It offers a serene environment, enriched with beautiful weather and a rich history, making it an idyllic location for a story about love and longing.
Themes
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Love and Desire
The theme of love and desire is central to the narrative, as Jean navigates his feelings for Véronique while balancing his responsibilities as a husband and father. The emotional tension highlights the conflict between romantic aspirations and familial commitments.
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Family and Responsibility
Family loyalty and responsibilities are examined through Jean's commitment to his wife and son. Despite his emotional entanglement with Véronique, Jean's internal struggle emphasizes the weight of familial obligations.
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Music and Connection
Music plays a significant role in the connection between Jean and Véronique. The violin represents a bridge between their worlds, offering a means of emotional expression that enhances their bond and deepens their relationship during intimate moments.
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