Living in the mountains means not to die in the mountains. It is true that mountains often cause death, but in most cases the reason for this is bad organization or irresponsibility. The film gives two classic examples imperonated by a climbing fanatic, Elie Chevieux, and by a guide, Jean Troillet. It shows the dangers of the mountains by explaining how two apparently opposite attitudes can, thanks to knowhow, training and thought, lead to the right approach to the mountains and the pleasure they provide.