The opening scene unfolds during a solar eclipse in July 1938. Lucien Cordier, the protagonist, witnesses a group of underprivileged African children resorting to eating sand to stave off hunger. Amidst the darkness, Cordier ignites a fire to provide warmth to the children.
Residing in a small town in French West Africa, Lucien Cordier serves as the town’s only policeman. However, his inability to assert authority renders him an object of scorn. His wife, Huguette, openly carries on an affair with Nono, passing him off as her sibling. Cordier’s attention is captivated by Rose, a young bride enduring abuse from her husband without his interference. To add to his woes, Vanderbrouck, the timber company’s head, humiliates him publicly on a daily basis. The situation worsens with the presence of deceitful pimps who defy the law and revel in demeaning Cordier.
Pushed to his limits by the audacious pimps, Cordier seeks guidance from his superior, Chavasson, who encourages decisive action. Upon returning, he confronts the pimps single-handedly, eliminating them and disposing of their bodies. Skillfully framing Chavasson for the crime, Cordier outwits his boss and sets out to address others who have tormented him. Rose’s husband and Vanderbrouck meet a similar fate, while Nono faces a physical confrontation after spying on Cordier and Anne, the new French teacher whom he has grown fond of.
As desperation and guilt consume him, Cordier continues a downward spiral, culminating in an act of violence against an African boy and a confession to Anne. Stealing Huguette’s savings, Cordier orchestrates a series of events leading to a fatal confrontation at Rose’s house, where she is compelled to defend herself.
Left with only Anne by his side, Cordier grapples with feelings of unworthiness despite her acceptance. The narrative closes on a poignant note as Cordier, alone under a tree, faces a moral dilemma when confronted by more starving children. The revolver in his hand symbolizes his internal turmoil as he contemplates his next move.
Experience the riveting twists and turns of “Clean Slate” and witness Lucien Cordier’s journey through choices and consequences. Watch the full movie for free now!