Feature film debut of Trier follows the fortunes of two 20-something childhood buds, Erik (Klouman-Hoiner) and Phillip (Lie). They share the same literary ambitions but only Phillip's first novel gets published and becomes a success. However, he can't deal with the attention, develops an obsession with girlfriend Kari (Winge), and has a breakdown that lands him in a mental hospital. Meanwhile, Erik neglects his girlfriend Lillian (Hagen) for his literary pursuits and tries to remain loyal to Phillip. Norwegian with subtitles.