Irene Wagner, the wife of the prominent German scientist Professor Albert Wagner, had been having an affair with Erich Baumann. She does not disclose this to her husband, hoping to preserve his innocence and their "perfect marriage". This fills her with anxiety and guilt. However, Johanna Schultze, Erich's jealous ex-girlfriend, learns about the affair and begins to blackmail Irene, turning Irene's psychological torture into a harsh reality.

Ingrid Bergmanas Irene Wagner
Mathias Wiemanas Professor Albert Wagner
Renate Mannhardtas Luisa Vidor aka Johanna Schultze
Kurt Kreugeras Erich Baumann
Edith Schultze-Westrumas Wagners' Babysitter
Steffi Strouxas Luisa Vidor's Friend