Tom Ripley, a shady American art dealer living in Hamburg, befriends Jonathan Zimmermann, a modest picture framer diagnosed with a rare blood disease. Ripley, involved in criminal activities, sees an opportunity to manipulate Zimmermann. Through deceit, he convinces Zimmermann to believe that his days are numbered and leverages this despair to recruit him as an assassin for a crime syndicate. Ripley entices Zimmermann with the promise of substantial financial compensation that could provide for his family after his demise.

Despite being initially reluctant, Zimmermann gets drawn deeper into the criminal underworld. As he fulfills his assigned tasks, he becomes entangled in a web of violence and deception, struggling with moral dilemmas and his deteriorating health. The growing bond between Ripley and Zimmermann adds complexity to their relationship, marked by mutual distrust and exploitation. This alliance leads them on a suspenseful and dangerous journey, raising questions about friendship, mortality, and the lengths one will go to for survival.