Charles (Gérard Blain) , a young provincial in Paris to study law, shares a flat with his cousin Paul (Jean-Claude Brialy). Charles is studious, respectful and honest but finds his well-meaning ways meet with little success either in his studies or with women. He is overshadowed by the urbane, debauched and diffident Paul and his wide circle of friends. When Charles falls in love with with Paul’s friend Florence (Juliette Mayniel) she responds out of duty but hoping to save his cousin Paul determines to put an end to the relationship with tragic results.

Les Cousins was Claude Chabrol’s second film and contains many of the hallmarks that would make his name. An early work from the Nouvelle Vague scene it had considerable international success and influence and won the Berlin Golden Bear award for Best Film.