During a political demonstration some years before, the police brutalized the demonstrators and Trassell (Jean-Pierre Mocky) fought back. Without his intending it, a policeman died. He spent some years in prison and has now escaped. His lawyer will help him leave the country if he can make it to the border on his own. Instead, he winds up having to take a hostage -- Paula, the daughter of a prominent politician. The politician's own corrupt history becomes known in the intense spotlight of news coverage about Trassell's escape. Paula grows enamored by Trassell, and they begin to work as a team as this French political thriller goes on to its ironic climax.