In a United States of the early 20th century, Clyde Griffiths is a young man from humble beginnings who dreams of a life of luxury and success. The son of preachers, Clyde feels that his destiny is something greater than the monotony of his family and neighborhood. When he moves to a prosperous city, he quickly falls in love with the beautiful and ambitious Roberta Alden, but his desire to ascend the social ladder leads him to reject his love for her. In his pursuit of status, he becomes involved with the wealthy and charming Sondra Finchley, who introduces him to a world of glamour and sophistication. However, his life turns chaotic when Roberta becomes pregnant and poses a threat to his dream aspirations.
Desperate and caught between his obligations and ambitions, Clyde makes a fateful decision that triggers a series of tragic events. As he tries to cover his tracks, the tension escalates and the narrative reaches a heartbreaking climax, exploring themes such as class differences, love, and unbridled ambition. The story resonates with a social critique on the struggle for the American dream, revealing what men are capable of doing in the obsession to achieve a social ideal. With unforgettable performances and masterful direction, this cinematic work becomes a vivid exploration of the tragedies of human desire.