Austria, 1888. Crown Prince Rudolph is bored with the ostentatious royal life in the Austrian court. He is forced into a marriage contract with Stephanie, Princess of Belgium. The couple is incompatible and they live in unhappy discord. Grand Duke Jean Salvadore, Rudolph`s cousin, is in touch with the liberals of the realm and his lover, Milly, is a commoner. The Grand Duke has broken the shackles of convention and he enjoys a life of freedom much to his cousin`s envy. During a performance of “Hamlet”, Rudolph meets Maria Vetsera, the daughter of Baron Vetsera, the wealthiest man in Vienna. The Prince and Maria fall in love at first sight...