Amour

Residents of a Paris apartment building report an unpleasant odor coming from one of the units. Authorities respond to these complaints and break down the door, leading to a shocking discovery.

Several months before the main events, octogenarian piano instructors Anne and Georges attend a captivating concert by Alexandre, one of Anne's former students. The evening brings them joy and nostalgia as they reminisce about their past.

Returning home after the concert, Anne and Georges discover that their apartment has been targeted in an attempted break-in. This distressing incident casts a shadow over their otherwise pleasant evening.

The following morning, while enjoying breakfast together, Anne suddenly suffers a stroke. Georges desperately calls out to her, but she falls into a catatonic state, marking the beginning of their emotional turmoil.

After regaining consciousness, Anne reluctantly acknowledges her condition but initially resists medical intervention. She later agrees to a surgery aimed at unblocking a carotid artery, which leads to unforeseen complications.

Following her surgery, Anne is left paralyzed on her right side, and she extracts a promise from Georges not to admit her to a hospital or nursing care. This promise solidifies their bond but also burdens Georges with the role of caretaker.

One day, Anne seemingly attempts suicide by jumping from a window, leading to a heartbreaking conversation with Georges. She candidly expresses her desire to no longer continue living, revealing the depth of her suffering.

During a visit from Alexandre, Anne's mood lifts temporarily as she dresses elegantly and engages in a lively discussion. This brief moment of joy provides a glimmer of hope for Georges regarding her recovery.

Unfortunately, Anne suffers a second stroke that significantly impairs her mental faculties and coherence. This deterioration deepens Georges's despair as he struggles to care for her amidst growing challenges.

To manage Anne's condition better, Georges decides to hire a nurse three days a week. Despite resistance from their daughter Eva, who urges professional care, George remains committed to honoring Anne's wishes.

Georges hires a second nurse, but after discovering her mistreatment of Anne, he decides to dismiss her immediately. This incident highlights Georges's unwavering devotion to ensure Anne's comfort and dignity.

In a tender moment, Georges sits beside Anne's bed and recounts childhood stories to bring her comfort. His devotion shines through, even as he grapples with the reality of her declining condition.

In a moment of despair, Georges tragicly decides to smother Anne with a pillow. This act, borne from love and sorrow, represents his ultimate resolution and profound grief at her suffering.

Afterward, Georges returns home with flowers, cherishing memories as he washes and arranges them. He selects a dress for Anne and writes a heartfelt letter, reflecting on their life and adventures together.

The film concludes hauntingly as it returns to the initial scene, showcasing Eva in the silent, empty apartment. Her solitude amplifies the themes of loss and longing for a life once filled with love.