In a Europe battered by the post-war economic crisis, a charming and cunning man, who has lived his entire life by the motto "money never sleeps," finds a peculiar way to survive. Portrayed by the masterful Charles Chaplin, this protagonist disguises himself as a caring widower seeking love, but in reality, he harbors a dark secret: he is a killer of rich women. His goal is to steal their fortunes while posing as a needy family man.
With each victim, his ingenuity and capacity for manipulation unfold, showcasing his ability to deceive and evade the authorities. However, as his macabre double life progresses, a fierce critique of the capitalist society that has driven him to this desperate situation also emerges. The man, in his quest for wealth and status, begins to question his own morality and the limits of what he is willing to do to survive.
Meanwhile, moments of comedy and tragedy intertwine, filled with Chaplin's typical brilliance. The narrative becomes more complex as his crimes start to have unexpected consequences, leading him to an inevitable confrontation with fate. At its core, the film is a profound reflection on humanity, greed, and the struggle for purpose in a world that seems to have lost its way, offering both sighs and laughter in equal measure.