In 17th century France, the music master Sander Colomb (Jean-Pierre Marielle) was immersed in the pain of losing his wife. He lived a secluded life with his two daughters away from the hustle and bustle. Whenever he played the viola in his hand, his wife's figure would appear in front of him. The handsome and talented young man Marais (Guillaume Depardieu and Gérard Depardieu) became Colomb's apprentice and learned music from him. He was arrogant and had no interest in the master's teachings. He was determined to become a famous violinist in Versailles with his skills. The master and apprentice broke up, and Colomb's eldest daughter Madeleine (Anne Brochet) followed her lover Marais. In the midst of a life of decadence and materialism, Mahler, bewitched by the appearance of luxury, gradually lost his original true nature. His love with Madeleine was broken, and the "Girl in a Dream" he once created for his lover also became an unbearable memory... The film won seven major awards at the 1992 French César Awards including Best Cinematography, Best Costume Design, Best Original Soundtrack, Best Sound Effects, Best Director, Best Supporting Actress (Anne Brochet) and Best Picture.