Annette

The film begins with a warm greeting from its director, Leos Carax, and the writers, Sparks, as they invite the audience on a vivid journey through Los Angeles. The central character, Henry McHenry, a stand-up comedian played by Adam Driver, is introduced with his humorous and controversial style that captivates the crowd.

Henry expresses his excitement about his recent engagement to Ann Defrasnoux, an opera singer portrayed by Marion Cotillard. During his performance, he reflects on how Ann has transformed him, revealing that he struggles to understand the depth of his feelings.

As their relationship blossoms, Henry and Ann passionately sing about their whirlwind romance, which leads to their marriage. They settle in her secluded mansion in the woods, where they envision a bright future together, despite the underlying tensions.

The couple welcomes their first child, Annette, who's presented as a wooden marionette. Henry grapples with his newfound responsibilities as a father while Ann's love and support remain a source of strength amid his insecurities.

During a troubling car ride, Ann experiences a nightmare about six women making alarming accusations against Henry, which stirs deep anxiety within her. This foreshadows the tensions that grow between them as their relationship becomes strained.

Henry embarks on a controversial tour in Las Vegas where he shocks his audience by claiming he 'killed' Ann in a darkly humorous way. This shocking statement marks the beginning of his downfall, plunging his career into chaos while Ann rises in fame.

In hopes of rekindling their love, Henry and Ann take a fateful yacht trip that quickly deteriorates during a violent storm. Henry's reckless behavior heightens their conflicts, ultimately leading to the tragedy of Ann's disappearance.

Amid the chaos of the storm, Ann is seemingly pushed overboard, leading to her tragic demise. Left to fend for himself and their daughter Annette, Henry rows to safety, haunted by the loss of the love of his life.

As law enforcement investigates Ann's disappearance, they rule it an accident. Meanwhile, Henry finds solace in Annette's unexpected singing talent, which becomes a source of excitement and newfound fame for him, despite the growing distance from his daughter.

Tensions escalate when the Conductor, who has feelings for Ann, reveals secrets about their past relationships. This confrontation ignites jealousy within Henry, straining his relationship with Annette and leading to tragic decisions.

Henry's jealousy culminates in a tragic confrontation where he drowns the Conductor, unaware that Annette witnesses the horror. This act of violence marks a critical turning point, spiraling Henry further into turmoil and regret.

In an attempt to protect her from the harsh world of show business, Henry schedules one last performance at the Hyper Bowl. When Annette unexpectedly freezes on stage and reveals the haunting line, 'Daddy kills people,' it shatters Henry's façade.

Facing trial for his crimes, Henry grapples with visions of Ann who sings with him about what could have been. His refusal to testify leads to his conviction, resulting in a deep sense of loss and regret as he reflects on his tumultuous journey.

Now alone in prison and haunted by his actions, Henry grapples with the ghost of Ann and the memories of their love. Each day becomes a reminder of his destructive choices and the love he lost.

During an emotional prison visit, Annette struggles to forgive Henry, signaling that he has lost everything he once cherished. As she walks away, the lifeless marionette of Annette symbolizes the tragic consequences of their love story.