The plot revolves around the Maeda family, who live an extravagant lifestyle in post-war Tokyo despite having a humble, cramped apartment. Mr. Maeda, the cunning patriarch, has mastered the art of extracting money from others to finance their high-life aspirations. He works as a low-level employee but relies heavily on his ability to deceive others. His wife, Mrs. Maeda, supports his schemes and prides herself on her family's status, while simultaneously sharing secrets with their millionaire landlord, Mr. Sasaki. Their daughter Tamiko uses her charm and beauty to attract wealthy suitors and pay off the family's debts. Meanwhile, their son Minoru is a student more interested in gambling, following in his father’s manipulative footsteps.

As the story unfolds, each member of the Maeda family becomes embroiled in their own web of deceit and ambition. Mr. Maeda hatches a scheme to secure financial gain by aligning himself with dubious business partners, while Mrs. Maeda becomes increasingly involved with Mr. Sasaki, hinting at deeper motivations beyond merely social climbing. Tamiko navigates her relationship with a wealthy man named Yagi but finds herself conflicted between romantic impulses and filial duty. Tension mounts as the family’s facade of respectability is threatened by their entanglements in deceit, selfish desires, and insatiable greed. The film crafts a vivid narrative exploring the corrosive effects of ambition and the lengths to which individuals will go to maintain appearances amidst moral and financial insolvency.