The Chauffeur

The Chauffeur is a drama set in 1990’s Britain. Sam is an ill-tempered female war veteran (70s). She sits out a dull existence in a care home, living on memories of her time as a spy in France during WW2. She breathes through an oxygen mask and looks her age. Her boredom is shattered by the arrival of a stranger, Andrea (late 20s), stylish and unlike anything in the care home. Andrea says she’s taking Sam out for ‘care in the community’ day. Sam’s suspicious, but lonely, so agrees to go. Driving in a convertible, Sam with oxygen mask and tank, they make an odd couple. Tense silence gives way to guarded small talk as they head out into the stunning countryside. To Sam’s shock, Andrea mentions a mutual connection named Thomas Simms, a man whom Sam chauffeured for 30 years. Sam realises something is going on, her old spy training kicking in. They arrive at a grubby car park by a wood and the true reason for Andrea’s visit is revealed. Thomas told her of a large quantity of money that’s buried in the wood, and that Sam would know where it’s hidden. Sam says she’s already taken the money but Andrea won’t give up that easily and accuses Sam of lying. The stakes are raised, there’s no small talk now. Andrea closes the roof and there’s a tense stand-off in the claustrophobic car. Andrea threateningly turns down Sam’s oxygen tank. Sam’s breathing becomes laboured, she’s struggling. Andrea has shown how far she’s prepared to go and Sam relents. She leads Andrea through the tranquil woods, dragging her oxygen tank behind her, the tension contrasting with the beautiful surroundings. Sam points out the place where the money is hidden. Andrea digs a hole in her dress and heels, but finds nothing. Angrily she confronts Sam, who repeats that she’s already taken the money. Enraged and desperate, Andrea turns down the tap on the oxygen tank until Sam is on her knees, struggling. Sam asks Andrea who she really is. Andrea reveals she’s a call girl looking to make a clean break, and this money is her way out. Sam appears sympathetic and offers to split what she has left with Andrea. Andrea is reluctant, wanting it all. Sam is desperate, grappling weakly for the tap. She points out that if she dies Andrea won’t get anything. Out of options, Andrea eventually relents and gives Sam a week to get the money. They drive home in silence. A few days later, Sam takes a car out to the same carpark and walks to the same part of the wood – but keeps walking. She digs in a different area nearby, and soon uncovers the coveted bag of money. Andrea arrives back at Sam’s room in the retirement home as agreed to collect her half of the money. The room is empty, abandoned, and a snide hand-written note reveals why – Sam’s taken the money and gone.