The Jacques Brothers, their temporary replacements, Yves Gérard and his troupe, as well as a famous movie star looking for a new partner, Evelyne Dorsey, are causing disruption at the "La Rose rouge" cabaret, the most famous cellar in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, to the delight of regulars.

Jean Michaut is a bargeman who lives near an old barge cemetery named "Bras-Mort". He is in love with Monique, the daughter of a wealthy boat owner. The girl returns his affection which goes against her family's class prejudices. Her family prove willing to do anything to separate the lovers, but, Monique will not buy in. On the contrary, she leaves her intolerant family to live with Jean among simple, more tolerant bargemen.

Antoine is a violinist in love with sweet Sophie. Problem: his sweetheart is the daughter of the master of the municipal harmony, a stubborn man who swears only by the brass. Never mind: Antoine decides to ask him for his daughter's hand and to win his place at the orpheon. Will the two men be able to get in tune?

A fake magician makes the inhabitants of a village believe that when one spouse betrays the other they will ring the bells.

A little girl named Alice dreams about going through the looking-glass and becoming a queen in the mirror reality.