Set in the early 20th century, the story revolves around a group of interconnected individuals navigating the complexities of love and desire. Fredrik Egerman, a middle-aged lawyer, is married to the much younger Anne, who remains a virgin after two years of marriage. Fredrik's son, Henrik, a theological student, harbors unspoken feelings for Anne, adding to the household tension. The family dynamics shift when Fredrik encounters his former lover, the glamorous and witty actress Desirée Armfeldt. Their interaction sets off a series of events involving jealousy, hidden emotions, and romantic entanglements that bring various characters together under one roof during a pivotal weekend.

Desirée complicates matters further when she invites Fredrik’s household, including his wife and son, to her mother’s country estate, alongside her new lover, Count Carl-Magnus Malcolm, and his wife, Charlotte. The gathering becomes a microcosm of romantic chaos, with characters engaging in flirtations, heartbreak, and revelations. Conversations and experiences during the night force them to confront their desires and choices, setting the stage for potential resolutions and newfound understanding. Each character's journey through love's convolutions aims to explore the delicate balance between passion and propriety in human relationships.