Masculine Feminine

Recently discharged from military service, Paul embarks on a quest to find a job. His journey begins while visiting a café, igniting the events that will intertwine his fate with those of others.

At the café, Paul encounters Madeleine, an aspiring singer eager to record her music. Their brief interaction establishes a bond that deepens as they navigate the complexities of life.

Paul and Madeleine's day takes a tragic turn when they witness an argument that escalates dangerously. A woman pulls out a gun and fatally shoots her partner, leaving Paul traumatized by the event.

After the shocking incident, Paul meets up with his friend Robert, a journalist. Robert convinces Paul to sign a petition aimed at releasing artists and writers in Rio de Janeiro who have been wrongfully accused.

At the magazine where Paul secures employment, he has an awkward encounter with Madeleine in the bathroom. Their conversation highlights the disconnect in their budding relationship, leaving Paul at a loss for words.

As the French presidential election looms in December 1965, Paul turns 21. He finds himself increasingly drawn to Madeleine amidst the political unrest surrounding them.

Paul joins Robert in pasting protest posters around Paris, expressing his discontent with the Vietnam War. His passion culminates in him spray-painting 'Peace in Vietnam' on a U.S. Army vehicle, showcasing his commitment to activism.

Madeleine prepares for the release of her debut single with RCA Records. On the big day, Paul intends to propose but is met with her preoccupation with the release, leading to missed opportunities.

During a laundromat visit, Paul confides in Robert about feeling followed. Engrossed in discussing folk singer Bob Dylan, Robert's perspective gives Paul a sense of camaraderie amidst his confusion.

Paul moves in with Madeleine, Elisabeth, and Catherine, leaving his job at the magazine. This transition marks a significant shift in his personal life as he adapts to new challenges and relationships.

In his new role as a pollster for IFOP, Paul interviews a young woman named Elsa. Their conversation touches on politics, relationships, and contraception, revealing the societal issues affecting their generation.

In a candid moment at the café, Paul reveals to Elisabeth that Madeleine is pregnant. Elisabeth's skepticism creates tension, complicating Paul's emotions as he navigates impending parenthood.

Paul and his friends have an unexpected encounter with the woman who shot her partner. Now involved in sex work, she offers a stark reminder of the violent world around them, adding to their shared experiences.

A shocking event unfolds when a man borrows matches from Paul, only to immolate himself as a protest. His haunting message about peace resonates deeply with Paul, catalyzing further introspection.

Reports suggest that Paul may have fallen from a window, raising suspicions regarding the circumstances. His friends and loved ones grapple with the ambiguity of whether it was an accident or a deliberate act.