Based on the intriguing true-life Victoria Thompson murder trial that occurred in late 1800´s New Zealand, this Gothic melodrama features Jodie Foster as Victoria, the young bride of the much older and extremely cruel Oliver Thompson (John Lithgow). Orphaned at birth, Victoria grows up with neither money nor home, but at age 17 attracts the attention of the mysterious and prosperous Thompson. The marriage is arranged and Victoria obediently weds him, though they live apart for a time while she completes school. When the naive girl finally moves into his house, she soon discovers the odd Mr. Thompson has some bizarre sexual habits. Victoria becomes increasingly fearful of the abusive man, but escape from the disturbing household is impossible, leaving her with only one other desperate choice...