Laurentie is the poetic name given to Quebec, and was the name for the idea of an independent Quebec in 1930s to ‘50s. The story of Louis, the 28 year old protagonist, spirals – slowly – towards a brutal climax, all shot in a formal and structured manner, to reinforce the film’s message about the emptiness of society: "My name is Louis Després. I am 28 years old. I live in a hole called Montreal. I do not know what I like. I do not know who I like. I do not know what I want to do with my life. I do not know who I am. But one thing I know for sure - I'm not your friend. The other - good-looking, speaks pleasant seductive language I do not know. He was surrounded by friends - I do not. He's happy - I'm not. Another recently moved next door. His mere presence is a constant reminder to me of my own worthless life..."