In the midst of the Great Depression, Cecilia is a beleaguered waitress who finds solace in the escapism provided by the grandiosity of Hollywood films. Trapped in a loveless marriage with her abusive and unemployed husband Monk, she regularly visits a local movie theater to forget her woes. Her favorite film becomes a new release featuring the charming and adventurous character, Tom Baxter. After repeatedly watching the film, Cecilia is astounded when Tom literally steps out of the silver screen into the real world, fascinated by her devotion and eager to experience life beyond his scripted existence.

Tom's sudden departure from the film plunges both the fictional and real worlds into chaos. The studio executives and actors are thrown into disarray, while Tom explores the vibrancy and unpredictability of reality with Cecilia. Their burgeoning romance leads to complex encounters as Cecilia's real-life constraints clash with Tom's idealized persona. Throughout their journey together, they face dilemmas that question the boundaries between fantasy and reality, ultimately compelling Cecilia to contemplate her own desires and aspirations beyond the magical allure of cinema.