Vienna, early 1950s: Every Thursday, artists, scientists, and journalists gather at Theophil Kanakis' home to enjoy the hospitality of the wealthy man. They want to indulge and forget the misery of wartime. Kuno Adler, the Jewish scientist, also wants to start anew. Having returned from exile in New York, he hopes to continue his work. But he encounters excuses, disdain, and hostility. And then there is the beautiful Marie-Theres. She finds herself in an environment full of decadence and moral ambiguity, ultimately succumbing to her innocence.