Splendor is the name of an aging cinema run by Jordan (Mastroianni), who took over the business from his father. The theater is falling apart and is a source of financial strain and problems, but Jordan receives support in his nearly impossible mission from projectionist Luigi (Troisi) and usherette Chantale (Vlady). Ultimately, Jordan is compelled to sell Splendor to businessman Lo Fazio (Piperno), who intends to convert it into a furniture store. As Jordan exits the theater for the final time (as shown in the opening scene), he reminisces about the theater’s heyday and the golden era of films.