Set in 1828 Restoration France, Julien Sorel (Victor Belmondo), the ambitious and educated son of a poor carpenter, seeks to rise above his low social class. Employed as a tutor for the children of the mayor, Monsieur de Rênal (Patrick Timsit), Julien embarks on a passionate, secret affair with the mayor's wife, Louise de Rênal (Virginie Ledoyen). Forced to flee to Paris after their secret is exposed, Julien becomes the secretary to the aristocratic Marquis de La Mole (Patrick Mille) and seduces his proud daughter, Mathilde (Camille Razat). As Julien's rapid social climb accelerates, a letter sent by Louise de Rênal shatters his prospects, setting off a tragic chain of revenge and downfall.