English aristocrat Tony Last welcomes tragedy into his life when he invites John Beaver to visit his vast estate. There Beaver makes the acquaintance of Tony's wife, Brenda. Together, they continue their relationship in a series of bedroom assignations in London. Trusting to a fault, Tony is unaware that anything is amiss until his wife suddenly asks for a divorce. With his life in turmoil, Tony goes on a haphazard journey to South America.

James Wilby
as Tony Last

Kristin Scott Thomas
as Brenda Last

Rupert Graves
as John Beaver

Pip Torrens
as Jock Grant-Menzies

Judi Dench
as Mrs. Beaver

Alec Guinness
as Mr. Todd

Beatie Edney
as Marjorie

Christopher Godwin
as Dr. Messinger

Jackson Kyle
as John Andrew

Anjelica Huston
as Mrs. Rattery