One day in the lives of young people Berlin during the economic crisis at the end of the 1920s.

Unemployeed taxi driver Emanuel is preparing to move away but borrows his friend Fritz's taxi in order to take one last drive through his city. Although Fritz has a job, he has problems of his own because his girlfriend Frieda is sexually harrassed by her boss. During his drive, Emanual meets dancers Susi and Gerda, who convince him not to leave the city. Gerda is in a relationship with a policeman who she doesn't love but who at least offers her some security. Susi, on the other hand, is free-spirited and confident and Emanuel is immediately attracted to her.

The decision to stay in Berlin turns out badly for Emanuel when he is blamed for an attack on a policeman at an unemployment demonstration. He is arrested while attending one of Susi's shows. In attendance are many other young people longing for a little joy and security in life.

Based on a novel by Rudolf Braune.