The film unfolds in the tumultuous era before, during, and after the Great War, traversing varied landscapes across France, Austria, and Germany. At the heart of the story is Jules, a reserved writer from Austria, portrayed by Oskar Werner, who strikes up a bond with the vivacious Frenchman Jim, played by Henri Serre. Their camaraderie is forged over a shared passion for art and the alluring Bohemian lifestyle. Their lives take a fascinating turn during a slide show, where they both become captivated by the image of a serene goddess. This leads them on a romantic journey to the Adriatic Sea to find the actual statue.
Their encounters introduce them to the spirited and unpredictable Catherine, a character brought to life by Jeanne Moreau. Catherine’s resemblance to the statue and her lively disposition draws both men to her, and although she begins a romantic relationship with Jules, her magnetic presence influences both men profoundly. Meanwhile, Jim maintains a separate relationship with Gilberte, often meeting her apart from his friends.
As the war looms, the two men’s lives are forever altered; Jules and Catherine prepare for marriage in Austria while both serve in the war, facing the dread of potentially confronting each other in battle. Following the conflict, Jim visits Jules and Catherine, who now have a daughter named Sabine. Jules confides his marital struggles to Jim, revealing that Catherine's flirtations and infidelity weigh heavily on him. In a desperate move, Jules encourages Jim to pursue Catherine to sustain his connection with her.
Their unorthodox living arrangements lead to a brief period of happiness until a desire for children creates tension between Jim and Catherine. After Jim returns to Paris, a series of letters between him and Catherine unfolds, only to be interrupted by the tragic news of her miscarriage.
Upon reuniting in Paris, Jim discovers Jules and Catherine have returned. In a climactic turn, Catherine, seeking to rekindle their past connection, confronts Jim in a cafe and later proposes a ride, leading to a deadly plunge into the river—in a haunting echo of her earlier actions when she leaped into the Seine. The aftermath leaves Jules to grapple with the loss of both friends, reflecting on the ephemeral nature of love and the weight of societal expectations on individual desires.
Through this intricate tale of love and loss, the film delves into the essence of freedom, connection, and the sacrifices made in the name of love, ultimately leaving Jules to carry the memories of those he cherished while navigating a world reshaped by the war and personal tragedy.
