After serving as an embassy secretary in London at the end of 1787, a position he didn't exactly enjoy, the poet André Chénier returns to Paris. When the Revolution breaks out, he becomes enthusiastic about it, and never ceases to express his love of liberty and high principles. But he also speaks out against excesses and troublemakers. For her part, the beautiful Aimée de Coigny, who has just divorced the Duc de Fleury, leads a dissolute life. In 1793, the Convention decides to put "the Terror on the agenda". Aimée de Coigny and her new lover, Casimir de Montrond, are arrested. At the Saint-Lazare prison, their life together is preserved. Six months later, Chénier is arrested and imprisoned. Dazzled by the young woman's beauty, the poet dedicates his most beautiful verses to her. But Aimée remains unmoved by his love.

Nicolas Silberg
as André Chenier

Anny Duperey
as Aimée de Coigny

Jacques Toja
as Lauzun

Mireille Audibert
as Mme de Bonneuil

Danielle Duvivier
as Mme Chénier

Alain Nobis
as M. Chénier

Olivier Rodier
as A. de Frontenille

Patricia Calas
as Fanny

Yves Arcanel
as Roucher

Hubert Deschamps
as Le marquis de Kermaden