Martial (Daniel Auteuil) is discharged from a mental institution where he spent a few years due to a serious nervous breakdown. During his hospitalization, he ceases to speak with everyone, including his wife Régine (Thérèse Liotard), whom he had encouraged to find a new partner soon after entering the clinic. Upon his return, he finds his mother (Danielle Darrieux), a busy business woman who owns a supermarket chain. She is convinced that her son, who by now hardly talks to anyone after his experience, will be able to find himself again if tasked with some responsibilities.