Cabourg, Normandy, 1929. British nobleman Henry H. checks in at the Grand Hotel with his family. However, the reason for his visit to this picturesque seaside town is rather unpleasant: his son is seriously ill and needs treatment from one of Europe’s most renowned doctors.

Troubled by their sickly son’s condition and the international stock market crash, the couple faces hard times. Frustrated and lonesome, Henry makes the acquaintance of the flamboyant femme fatale Asta at the hotel bar.

She is introduced as Asta Nielsen, the era’s biggest silent movie star. And Henry quickly falls for her intoxicating flirtations and commits adultery.