Manon of the Spring takes place ten years after the events of Jean de Florette. Manon, now in her early twenties, has become a gifted shepherdess, tending to her herd of goats in the beautiful countryside of Provence.
Still grieving the loss of her father, Jean, who was betrayed by his neighbors and left to die of thirst, Manon has become a deeply vengeful person, determined to get justice for her family. She has found evidence that implicates the neighboring Soubeyrans in Jean's death and sets out to ensure that they are held accountable.
However, her elaborate plan for revenge comes with a heavy price. As she pits herself against the community that she once called home, Manon risks alienating herself from the very people who have known and cared for her since birth.
As she sets her plan in motion, Manon is drawn to a handsome stranger, Bernard (Yves Montand), who is living as a hermit in the hills. Despite her initial suspicion and hostility, she finds herself falling for him. But as the truth about her father's death begins to unravel, Manon realizes that she may have to choose between revenge and true love.
Manon of the Spring is a visually stunning film that captures the beauty of the Provencal countryside and the struggles of its people. Beart delivers a powerful performance as the determined Manon, while Montand brings a quiet and understated charm to his role. The film is a fitting conclusion to the story begun in Jean de Florette, exploring themes of greed, revenge, and redemption in a poignant and thought-provoking way.
