Based on the popular stage play by Georges Courteline. The film is set in 1885. It focuses on a group of troops, a mix of regulars and reservists, and their different responses to the daily military routines. A crisis emerges when a General pays a visit while two deserters are still absent.

Raimu
as Captain Hurluret

Fernandel
as Vanderague

Jean Gabin
as Fricot

René Donnio
as Laplote

Charles Camus
as Adjutant Flick

Pierre Labry
as Potiron

Lucien Nat
as Chief Sergeant Barnot

Pierre Ferval
as Brigadier Vergisson

Henry Roussel
as General

Georges Bever
as La Guillaumette