Elles

The film opens with Anne, a middle-aged journalist, in a state of hurry as she prepares for the day ahead. She is under pressure to finalize her article on prostitution while managing her personal responsibilities.

Amidst the chaos, Anne makes a quick trip to the grocery store. This errand is vital as she is also expected to prepare dinner for her husband's boss and his wife later that evening.

Anne's worries deepen as she reflects on her two sons. The older boy is frequently skipping school, while the younger one seems consumed by video games, causing Anne to feel increasingly overwhelmed.

Anne reaches out to Charlotte, a local teenager involved in prostitution, for her article. In a park setting, Charlotte shares her candid views about her experiences, revealing how her choice was driven by academic struggles.

During the conversation, Charlotte discusses the challenges of balancing her life as a student with part-time work. She explains the fabrication of stories to justify her finances to her family and boyfriend.

Anne's next appointment is with Alicja, a young Polish woman who shares her different experiences in the sex industry. Alicja's carefree attitude and stylish appearance reflect a stark contrast to Charlotte's situation.

Alicja recounts her arrival in France, which was marred by the loss of her suitcase and lack of support from student advisors. Despite these challenges, she has established a successful lifestyle, which she enjoys.

During her interview, Alicja describes the various types of clients she encounters, primarily bored husbands seeking escapism. Her stories include details about intimate and unconventional encounters.

Alicja confesses to Anne about an addiction to her lifestyle, despite the initial freedom she felt in a new environment. This insight adds complexity to her character, highlighting the nuanced reality of her choices.

As the day comes to an end, Anne begins to reflect on the profound impact her interviews with Charlotte and Alicja have had on her personal life. She contemplates her role as a mother and the emotional ramifications of their stories.

Despite her emotional turmoil, Anne refocuses herself to prepare dinner for her husband's boss and wife. This task serves as a grounding act, juxtaposing her chaotic day with the domestic expectations of her life.

The film closes with Anne tending to her husband and reflecting on the day's events. The echoes of Charlotte's and Alicja's lives linger in her mind as she ponders the complexity of her own familial relationships.