After the Life

Police Inspector Pascal Manise enters a bar to procure morphine from Freddy, a former drug dealer associated with Jacquillat, a notorious drug lord. Their short conversation is interrupted by a mysterious phone call, hinting at deeper complexities in the drug trade.

Manise gives the drugs to his wife, Agnès, who has battled addiction for 20 years. It's revealed that she has never purchased her own drugs, as her husband has always provided them.

Agnès informs Manise that her friend Cécile has invited them to a party. Although reluctant to go, he agrees when she promises to buy him a new suit for the occasion, showcasing the strain in their relationship.

The police initiate a search for Bruno Le Roux, a fugitive and former revolutionary. They begin surveillance on Jeanne Rivet, Agnès's colleague, trying to connect her to Le Roux’s whereabouts, revealing the broader stakes involved.

While investigating the murder of Freddy, Manise meets with Jacquillat, who expresses interest in framing Le Roux for the crime. Jacquillat’s manipulation is revealed, as he pressures Manise by withholding morphine for Agnès until a favor is granted.

When Agnès faints at the party, Manise rushes her home, showcasing the physical toll of her addiction. He administers the last morphine fix through desperation, hinting at the lengths he will go to for her.

The next day, Manise participates in a school debate addressing drug issues, presenting himself as a tough law-enforcer. This leads to a discussion about alternatives for drug users, exposing the complexity of addiction and societal responses.

As Agnès experiences severe withdrawal symptoms, tensions rise between her and Manise. Their strained relationship brings to light the challenges of dealing with addiction within their marriage.

Manise arrests Jeanne, suspecting her connection to Le Roux. Agnès is distraught about the strike at school protesting Jeanne's detention, highlighting the tension between personal and professional commitments.

In her search for drugs, Agnès encounters Banane, a petty drug dealer, and makes desperate attempts to get a fix. Her actions illustrate the depths of her addiction and the looming danger she faces in her quest.

Manise confronts Jacquillat about his underhanded tactics and the ongoing threat to his witnesses. This escalation signifies the dangerous intertwining of his personal life with his police duties.

Agnès, unbeknownst to Manise, meets Le Roux, who offers her drugs. Their clandestine connection reveals the moral ambiguities of her choices, pitting her addiction against her loyalty to her husband.

Manise uncovers the truth about Le Roux's activities which leads to a confrontation with Agnès. Their tumultuous exchange exposes the cracks in their relationship, driven by trust, betrayal, and addiction.

Following the tragic death of a friend, Manise spirals into despair, contemplating suicide as his relationship deteriorates. Agnès's plea for him to stay solidifies their bond, yet the emotional weight remains unbearable.

In a climactic moment, Manise lowers his gun after Agnès implores him to choose life and their relationship. This pivotal event signifies the struggle between his duty as a police officer and his love for Agnès amidst chaos.