A suburban working husband, Phil, through years of neglect, causes his wife, Jane, to desert him, leaving with him their two children, Damien and Cathy. His single work-mate, Terry, is totally unsympathetic to the situation and is of little help.

The film follows the disintegration of the family: home life, school and work. Phil, who really can't cope, attempts to persuade Jane to return. When Jane finally returns, for one night at least, Phil is confronted by his past failings.