A Guide for the Married Man

In 1960s suburban America, infidelity is portrayed as a sophisticated sport, with married men viewing it as a game of corporate espionage. A man, Paul Manning, played by Walter Matthau, receives lessons from his friend Ed Stander, Robert Morse, on how to cheat on his wife without getting caught. With a series of cautionary tales and success stories featuring celebrities like Rance, a movie star, and other infamous philanderers, Ed outlines a meticulous plan for a "clean" encounter, complete with elaborate travel strategies and psychological warfare tactics. However, when Paul finally takes the plunge and plans an affair, he is confronted with his own guilt and discomfort, leading to a shocking reversal of his intentions as he ultimately rejects the lifestyle and returns home to his wife, Ruth.