In 1960s Paris, we follow Cléo, a young and enigmatic singer who finds herself at a critical moment in her life. Over the course of two crucial hours, the protagonist awaits the results of a medical test that could confirm a cancer diagnosis. This unsettling scenario leads her on an introspective journey that reveals her insecurities, fears, and deepest desires.
As she moves through the streets of the city, Cléo encounters various characters that reflect both her inner world and the complexity of urban life. From a superficial friend to a distant lover, each interaction reveals different facets of her personality and life in the 1960s. As the hours pass, Cléo's anguish intertwines with moments of beauty and discovery, prompting her to question her identity and the purpose of her existence.
The film becomes a poetic and visceral portrait of the human condition, exploring themes such as mortality, loneliness, and the quest for meaning in life. Amidst the vibrant backdrop of Paris, Cléo confronts her own vulnerability, inviting the viewer to reflect on time, life, and connection with others. All of this unfolds in elegant black and white, enhancing the emotional intensity of her journey. Throughout this odyssey, time ticks away, and Cléo will come to discover that every second counts.