Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du commerce, 1080 Bruxelles

The film opens by introducing Jeanne Dielman, a widowed mother whose life is steeped in routine. Her days consist of repetitive tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and caring for her son, encapsulating the struggle of a single parent juggling responsibilities.

For three consecutive days, Jeanne meticulously carries out her daily errands, ensuring that her home is organized and her son is well cared for. This structure represents her attempt to maintain control in her life amidst the chaos of widowhood.

To supplement her income, Jeanne engages in sexual encounters with a different client each afternoon. She accomplishes this just before her son returns from school, blending her work into the seams of her otherwise monotonous day.

The first day progresses without incident, maintaining the facade of Jeanne's routine. However, this normalcy is punctuated by the underlying tension of her secret life, which she shields from her son.

On the second day, after an encounter with a client, surprising changes occur in Jeanne's behavior. She starts to exhibit signs of forgetfulness, such as overcooking dinner and failing to complete basic tasks, hinting at her internal turmoil.

As the day progresses, Jeanne's forgetfulness escalates in alarming ways. She forgets to put lids on jars, leaves lights on, and even neglects her appearance, showing a slip from her previously pristine self.

The third day marks a pivotal point for Jeanne, as she prepares for her client with an anxious energy. The routine she clings to begins to unravel dramatically, reflecting her growing instability.

During the encounter with her final client, Jeanne grapples with conflicting emotions of pleasure and disgust. This internal struggle culminates in a moment of violent realization as she confronts her feelings towards her life choices.

In an unexpected turn of events, Jeanne brandishes scissors and violently stabs her client. This shocking act not only signifies a breaking point for her but also serves as a stark commentary on the depths of her despair.

After committing the murder, Jeanne retreats to her dining room table in silence. Her stillness prompts a haunting reflection on her decisions, leaving both her and the audience in a state of contemplation about the nature of her existence.

In the aftermath of the violent encounter, Jeanne’s life is irrevocably changed. The stark contrast between her previous routine and her new reality showcases the complexity of her character and her circumstances.

The film concludes with an open-ended question about Jeanne's choices and the life she had constructed. It challenges the audience to reflect on the implications of her actions and the societal structures surrounding her.