The Only One

Lucien, an octogenarian with a stubborn streak, relocates to his daughter Gerda's house following his wife's death. The change unsettles him and disrupts the rhythm of the household. He resists Gerda's attempts to impose rules, clinging to his fixed routines.

Lucien's strict way of living clashes with the others in the house and with Gerda's expectations. He neglects many of her requests and refuses to adapt his habits. The friction between father and daughter grows and spills into the shared spaces.

After the umpteenth incident, Gerda is near to the edge and considers a rest home for her father. She fears losing control over the situation and the family finances. The prospect marks a turning point in their strained relationship.

Lucien tells Gerda he will not stay longer and plans to move back to his own house. He adds that his 'new girlfriend' will also move in, a claim that immediately rings false to Gerda. She worries this plan would compromise the money she wants to spend on a luxury campervan to visit Spain.

To his granddaughter Julie, Lucien admits he does not have a new girlfriend. He avoids clarifying the romantic situation and tries to project calm about the coming changes. Julie remains one of the few bright spots amid the tension.

Mathilde, the wife of Lucien's best friend Felix, is introduced to handle housekeeping. Her presence signals a shift in the household's routines and the power dynamics at play. Lucien's interactions with Mathilde introduce new warmth but also old loyalties.

It emerges that Lucien had sexual affairs with Mathilde while his wife was still alive. They promised eternal love but kept it secret until both partners were dead. The revelation strains trust and complicates the relationships in the circle.

Living on his own proves tougher than Lucien expected, and he grows bored when Mathilde is not around. The visits of Julie brighten his days, though she soon tells him she will leave for France to study. The family circle begins to tilt as distance and independence creep in.

A new neighbor named Sylvia moves in next door. At around 46 years old, she intrigues the elderly man and offers a spark of renewed interest. Sylvia teaches him housekeeping and even gives him computer lessons.

With Sylvia, Lucien experiences a renewed vitality as he embraces new routines. She becomes a teacher and friend, helping him manage the house and learn technology. Their companionship brightens his days and loosens the old grip of isolation.

Gerda and Mathilde distrust Sylvia, sensing that she could disrupt the household balance and Lucien's loyalties. They view her presence as a threat to their plans and to the family's financial stability. Their distrust foreshadows looming conflict.

In a drastic move, Lucien breaks with Sylvia to protect his family. He prioritizes Gerda's plans and the finances over personal happiness. The decision marks the film's pivot back toward family duty.