In London at the beginning of the 20th century, the American millionaire Adam verver (Nick nolte), gives in marriage to his daughter Maggie (Kate beckinsale), to the prince Amerigo (Jeremy Northam), an impoverished Italian aristocrat.
Charlotte stant (Uma Thurman), an American beauty and best friend of Maggie, is the prince’s lover Amerigo.
They both keep their relationship a secret from Maggie, since she wants her friend to marry her father.
Charlotte agrees to marry Adam, just to be close to Amerigo and continue your relationship.
A golden goblet with a small flaw will be the trigger for a dramatic mess.