Jeder Mensch braucht ein Geheimnis.

Early retired principal Helmut Lürzer takes off to Italy with his mistress without a sound, leaving behind an unsuspecting and confused family. His wife Luise, their four grown-up children and even the grandchildren search for their grandfather. Helmut, who feels exploited and controlled by his domineering wife, remains true to his vow not to contact her for a year.