In a vibrant 1950s San Francisco, a group of U.S. Navy pilots faces the dilemma of war and love. Upon returning from a dangerous mission, Lieutenant Scott "Scotty" McBride, played by Cary Grant, is recovering from an injury that has temporarily sidelined him. While staying at an exclusive hotel, he crosses paths with a stunning beauty named Kay, to whom he soon feels drawn. However, their relationship becomes complicated due to the inherent tension of military life and the shadow of his responsibilities.
Scott, along with his squadron mates, embarks on a wild adventure as they enjoy the freedoms that civilian life offers. These friends are determined to savor every moment as if it were their last, filling their time with laughter, parties, and fleeting romances. But as Scott and Kay's relationship evolves, so do the pressures of military duty that surround them, creating an emotional tug-of-war.
The film is a blend of comedy and romance, set against a backdrop of uncertainty that resonates with the fears of a generation marked by war. Through tension and lightness, the characters must confront their deepest fears and decide what it truly means to love in times of peril, leaving a lesson about the importance of enjoying life while one can.