A penniless man in 1960s France, driven by hunger and poverty, steals money and seeks divine signs to avoid work. With the help of a pocket watch, a motorcycle, and a toffee, he finds himself caught up in a series of comical and chaotic events, including a burglary and a narrow escape from the police. As he navigates through a world of bourgeois values and religious norms, he questions the importance of money and the true meaning of happiness.

Colette gives up her studies to become a cabaret dancer. She breaks with her fiance who does not approve of her choice.

Three old friends meet again. They compare their marriages and tell each other stories which illustrate why they complain about their wives.

The Emmaüs community opened and functioned thanks to the generous impetus of Abbé Pierre Groues, bringing together a cross-section of the underprivileged: unemployed truck drivers, former paratroopers, young people leaving prison, etc., and underprivileged families. The "ragpickers" manage to make a bit of money by practicing the art of "chine", while the abbé tries his hand at winning radio games. The accident and death of one of them will unite the Emmaus companions even more.

Although suspected and hunted down by policeman Sherlock Coco and inspector Hector, the Pieds Nickelés (Croquignol, Filochard and Ribouldingue) manage to save the legacy of Monsieur Miradoux, who will be very grateful to them.