This Modern Age

Valentine Winters travels to Paris for a long-awaited reunion with her mother, Diane, who has become a socialite in André de Graignon's circle. Diane's glamorous world hints at hidden tensions, and Val begins to navigate this morally tangled landscape. Her arrival foreshadows the conflicts to come as Tony's presence introduces a disruptive energy.

In Paris, Val meets Tony, a fun-loving but alcoholic member of Diane's social circle. Tony's rowdy energy contrasts with Val's refined expectations, drawing her into a chaotic social orbit. The budding tension sets the stage for later conflicts.

Val and Tony are involved in a car crash, and they are rescued by Bob Blake Jr., a Harvard football player. Val and Bob rapidly become drawn to each other, and their connection hints at a potential romance beyond the current complications.

Bob invites his parents to meet Val, and they disapprove of Tony and of Diane's living arrangement with André. The meeting reveals a rift between Val's new circle and Bob's family, foreshadowing further clashes.

Bob overhears a private conversation in which Diane complains that her life is on hold for Val and that André intends to move Diane out. He tries to rush their marriage so Val can leave Diane's shadow, but Val resists and he reveals the truth to her.

Val confronts Bob after hearing his accusations, insisting that her love for her mother is sincere. She rejects his plea and decides to stand by Diane, even as the truth unsettles her.

Val and Diane move into a much smaller apartment, signaling the strain on their relationship. Tony stops by, still smitten with Val, complicating the new living arrangement.

Diane recontacts André and tells him that she will travel Europe with him, effectively abandoning Val. Val is heartbroken by the revelation, realizing the extent of her mother's betrayal.

Diane visits Bob to plead for mercy on Val's behalf, hoping to mend the rift. Bob's parents rebuke Diane's request, further damaging her reputation.

With society turning against her, Diane's reputation collapses and she leaves Paris to travel with André. Val learns of her mother's departure and feels the sting of betrayal.

Bob realizes that his parents' attitudes are antiquated and unjust toward Val. He and Val resolve to move past the conflict, embracing their love.

Bob goes to Val and they are reunited, choosing to continue their relationship. Together they face the consequences of the family upheaval and plan their future.