The film follows the anguished yet brilliant life of Vincent van Gogh, a painter struggling to find meaning and purpose through his art. Moving to Arles, France, he immerses himself in the natural beauty of the countryside, seeking inspiration. His obsession with capturing light and color on canvas, alongside his mental torment, distances him from others but draws him closer to his vivid vision of the world. He forms a close bond with Paul Gauguin, a fellow artist, which profoundly influences his work. However, Vincent's intense dedication to his craft and unpredictable behavior put a strain on their friendship.

Throughout his journey, Vincent grapples with feelings of isolation and mental illness while passionately pursuing his artistic vision. He experiences a series of emotional highs and lows, with brief moments of profound insight mirrored by episodes of despair. The turbulent environment of his mind fuels his creativity but also leads to disturbing events that hint at his deteriorating state. Despite these challenges, Vincent continues to create some of his most iconic pieces, remaining driven by an insatiable need to express himself through painting. His story is a poignant exploration of the intersection between genius and madness, resilience, and fragility.