A Slightly Pregnant Man 1973

Comedy

Runtime

96 mins

Language

French

Directed by

Jacques Demy

Made by

Lira Films

Test your knowledge of A Slightly Pregnant Man with our quiz!

A Slightly Pregnant Man Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for A Slightly Pregnant Man (1973). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.

Marco is a driving instructor based in Paris, who leads a relatively normal life with his fiancée, Irène de Fontenoy, a talented hairdresser, and their young son, Lucas. Their life takes an unexpected turn when they enjoy a chicken dinner and attend a Mireille Mathieu concert together. During the concert, Marco suddenly suffers a dizzy spell, prompting them to leave early. Back at home, Irène becomes increasingly worried about Marco’s health and urges him to see a doctor, but he initially dismisses her concerns, attributing his discomfort to indigestion from the chicken.

The following morning, Marco visits Dr. Delavigne to seek medical advice. To everyone’s surprise, the doctor diagnoses Marco with symptoms typically associated with pregnancy, which leads her to refer him to a gynecologist for further tests. As the investigation unfolds, Marco, curious and a bit bewildered, purchases strawberries and a textbook on female anatomy—reminding Irène of her own cravings when she was pregnant with Lucas, which raises her suspicions.

The next day, during a drive to Dr. Chaumont’s office, Marco confesses to Irène that he is, in fact, pregnant. This revelation causes Irène to faint from shock. At Dr. Chaumont’s clinic, the doctor confirms the diagnosis and explains that hormones from the chicken have caused an imbalance, making Marco sufficiently feminine to carry a child. She advises Marco to follow a low-sodium diet and to avoid strenuous activities for the next seven months.

Marco, trying to process this bizarre situation, returns to his job at a driving school and confides in his colleague, Lucien Soumain. Irène, meanwhile, discusses the extraordinary news with her coworkers and clients, highlighting how their lives are about to change forever. Later, the couple gathers the courage to tell Lucas about the pregnancy, sharing the incredible secret with their son.

As news of Marco’s pregnancy spreads, he is contacted by Scipion Lemeu [– the director of a maternity clothing company], who proposes an unusual advertising campaign. Lemeu offers to pay the couple ten thousand francs per month, along with paid vacations, to model a new line of paternity clothes, until their child turns ten. Marco’s pregnancy becomes a worldwide sensation, even drawing the attention of major newspapers like The New York Times, which describe his condition as “the most important event since man walked on the Moon.”

Marco is showcased at an International Medical Congress, where Dr. Chaumont introduces him to an audience of doctors. During a panel discussion, Marco, Irène, and several medical professionals, including Dr. Delavigne and Dr. Chaumont, along with journalist Ferdinand Delabut and Pastor Petit, debate topics such as the rise of pregnant men, women’s liberation, and contraception—highlighting the social and scientific implications of this unprecedented phenomenon.

As the situation escalates, numerous reports surface across France of men experiencing pregnancy symptoms, igniting concerns over overpopulation. The film features two different endings: In the original French version, Marco is diagnosed with hysterical pregnancy, which brings sorrow to both him and Irène. However, during their wedding, Irène faints again but then joyfully reveals that she is pregnant, symbolizing hope and new beginnings. In the alternate Italian ending, Marco realizes he has been misdiagnosed and unexpectedly goes into labor at his wedding, although the baby is not shown. Following these events, the phenomenon spreads, and men everywhere begin experiencing pregnancy symptoms, raising questions about society, gender roles, and human biology on a grand scale.

A Slightly Pregnant Man Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of A Slightly Pregnant Man (1973) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.

Marco and Irène Attend Mireille Mathieu Concert

Marco, a driving instructor, and Irène, a hairdresser and single mother, attend a Mireille Mathieu concert in Paris. During the performance, Marco experiences a dizzy spell which prompts them to leave early. Irène becomes concerned about Marco's health after the concert, suspecting he may be unwell.

Paris

Marco Declines Medical Help Initially

Irène urges Marco to see a doctor following his dizziness, but he declines, attributing his symptoms to an upset stomach caused by eating chicken. He dismisses the seriousness of his condition, hoping it will pass, and they return home together. However, Irène remains worried about his health.

Paris

Marco Consults a Doctor

The next morning, Marco visits Dr. Delavigne, who conducts examinations and finds that his physical symptoms are related to pregnancy. She explains that his condition may be caused by hormonal imbalances, leading her to advise further testing with a gynecologist. Marco begins to realize something unusual is happening to him.

Paris

Marco Purchases Strawberries and Anatomy Book

On his way home, Marco buys strawberries and a textbook on female anatomy. Irène questions his choice of strawberries because it is winter, but she recalls her own pregnancy craving for them. This detail heightens the suspicion that Marco’s symptoms relate to pregnancy, not an illness.

Marco Confesses to Irène

Driving to Dr. Chaumont's office, Marco confesses to Irène that he believes he is pregnant. Irène faints from shock, overwhelmed by the revelation. Their conversation marks a pivotal moment, shifting the understanding of Marco’s mysterious health issues to pregnancy.

en route to doctor's office

Doctor Confirms Marco's Pregnancy

At Dr. Chaumont's clinic, the doctor confirms that Marco is pregnant. He explains that hormones in the chicken might have caused an imbalance, making Marco sufficiently feminine to carry a child. Chaumont advises a low-sodium diet and rest for the next seven months.

Paris, medical clinic

Marco Shares the Truth at Work

Marco returns to his driving school and confides in his co-worker Lucien about his pregnancy. This revelation sparks a mix of shock and curiosity among colleagues. Irène also discusses Marco's condition with friends and clients at her salon, spreading the news.

Driving school, salon

Couple Tells Lucas

Marco and Irène sit down to tell their young son, Lucas, about Marco's pregnancy, explaining the unusual circumstances. The revelation challenges their usual routine and highlights the extraordinary situation they are facing as a family.

Marco Becomes a Model and Celebrities Around the World

Marco is approached by Scipion Lemeu, who hires him as the model for a new line of paternity clothing. The campaign promises a monthly payment until the child turns ten. Media coverage elevates Marco’s profile, and newspapers proclaim his pregnancy as a historic event.

Public and Medical Attention Increase

Marco's pregnancy garners international attention, with the New York Times calling it a major event. At an international congress, Chaumont presents Marco to an audience of medical professionals, discussing the phenomenon and broader implications for gender and reproduction.

International Medical Congress

Media Debates and Society Reacts

During a panel discussion, doctors and journalists debate the implications of men becoming pregnant. The media explores topics like women's liberation, contraception, and the societal impact of male pregnancies, reflecting widespread curiosity and concern.

Conference hall

Reports of Pregnant Men Spread Across France

News reports emerge of multiple cases of men experiencing pregnancy symptoms throughout France. Authorities and experts warn about overpopulation risks, highlighting the social and political ripple effects of this unusual phenomenon.

France

Original French Ending - Diagnosis

In the French version, Marco is diagnosed with hysterical pregnancy, bringing sadness to both him and Irène. They marry, but Irène faints, revealing she is pregnant, which adds a joyful twist to the story’s conclusion.

Italian Ending - Going into Labor

In the Italian version, Marco realizes he has been misdiagnosed and unexpectedly goes into labor during his wedding. Although the baby isn't shown, the event signifies the surreal and chaotic progression of the pregnancy phenomenon.

Global Men Experience Pregnancy Symptoms

Following the events in the film, men worldwide start experiencing pregnancy symptoms, indicating a global spread of the phenomenon. This raises questions about biological boundaries and societal adaptations to this new reality.

Worldwide

A Slightly Pregnant Man Characters

Explore all characters from A Slightly Pregnant Man (1973). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.

Marco Mazetti (portrayed by Marcello Mastroianni)

Marco is a pragmatic driving instructor who finds himself in an extraordinary situation as he becomes pregnant. His character demonstrates resilience and adaptability, challenging traditional gender expectations through his experiences.

🚗 Driver 🤔 Thoughtful 🧑‍🍼 Unconventional

Irène de Fontenoy (portrayed by Catherine Deneuve)

Irène is a dedicated hairdresser and mother who balances her personal life and societal expectations. Her reaction to Marco's pregnancy reflects concern, empathy, and evolving perspectives on gender roles.

💇‍♀️ Hairdresser ❤️ Caring 🧠 Supportive

Dr. Chaumont (portrayed by Raymond Gérôme)

Dr. Chaumont is a physician specializing in pregnancy, who explains the scientific basis of Marco's condition. His character embodies the scientific curiosity and societal acceptance of new phenomena.

⚕️ Doctor 🔬 Scientific 📢 Educator

A Slightly Pregnant Man Settings

Learn where and when A Slightly Pregnant Man (1973) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.

Time period

Late 20th century, likely late 1970s to early 1980s

The story unfolds during a period marked by evolving gender roles and rising interest in feminism and women's liberation. This era saw significant social changes, with new attitudes towards family, gender identity, and societal expectations, which are reflected in the movie's themes.

Location

Paris, France

The movie takes place primarily in Paris, the vibrant capital of France known for its iconic landmarks, artistic history, and cultural influence. As a European metropolis, Paris is characterized by its bustling streets, cafes, and fashion scene, serving as a backdrop for the characters' personal and societal interactions.

🗼 City 💡 Cultural hub 🎨 Artistic

A Slightly Pregnant Man Themes

Discover the main themes in A Slightly Pregnant Man (1973). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.

🤰

Parenthood

The film explores unconventional parenthood, highlighting the emotional and societal aspects of pregnancy, especially when experienced by a man. It challenges traditional family roles and emphasizes the importance of family bonds in the face of societal norms.

🌍

Society and Progress

Set against the backdrop of a changing society, the movie comments on social attitudes toward gender and reproductive rights. It reflects the debates around women's liberation and the scientific progress that influence individuals' lives and societal opinions.

Coming soon on iOS and Android

The Plot Explained Mobile App

From blockbusters to hidden gems — dive into movie stories anytime, anywhere. Save your favorites, discover plots faster, and never miss a twist again.

Explore the mobile app

A Slightly Pregnant Man Spoiler-Free Summary

Discover the spoiler-free summary of A Slightly Pregnant Man (1973). Get a concise overview without any spoilers.

In contemporary Paris, everyday life is turned on its head when a modest driving instructor confronts an inexplicable medical mystery. Marco Mazzetti—a practical man who spends his days teaching newcomers the rules of the road—finds himself grappling with dizzy spells and a diagnosis that defies biology. Suddenly, the ordinary rhythm of his family’s routine is disrupted, and the very notion of who can bear a child is thrust into the spotlight.

At his side is Irène de Fontenoy, a vibrant hairdresser whose confidence and warmth have always anchored their small household. Together they share Lucas, their curious young son, whose world is about to expand beyond the familiar streets of the city. The film paints their domestic sphere with a warm, slightly whimsical brush, letting the audience feel the mix of affection, bewilderment, and quiet resilience that defines a family suddenly thrust into the extraordinary.

The story’s tone balances gentle satire with heartfelt drama, inviting viewers to consider how modern society wrestles with the unexpected. As news of Marco’s condition leaks beyond the hospital walls, the ordinary streets of Paris become a stage for a broader cultural conversation, hinting at a media frenzy that swirls around the couple without yet detailing its full reach. The film’s visual style leans into the bright, bustling atmosphere of the city while allowing moments of intimate, almost surreal stillness—reflecting the collision between personal upheaval and the public’s unrelenting curiosity.

Through witty dialogue and understated humor, the film sets up a compelling exploration of gender norms, scientific wonder, and the ways in which a single impossible event can ripple through the fabric of everyday life. The narrative promises a thoughtful, occasionally absurd journey, anchored by the love and uncertainty shared among Marco, Irène, and Lucas, as they confront a reality that challenges everything they thought they knew about family and identity.

Can’t find your movie? Request a summary here.

Movies with Similar Twists and Themes

Uncover films that echo the narrative beats, emotional arcs, or dramatic twists of the one you're exploring. These recommendations are handpicked based on story depth, thematic resonance, and spoiler-worthy moments — perfect for fans who crave more of the same intrigue.