In the late 1950s Hollywood, an aspiring actress named Marla Mabrey, alongside her devout Baptist mother Lucy, arrives in Los Angeles under contract to the enigmatic and wealthy Howard Hughes. Despite the strict rules that Hughes imposes on his employees, which strictly forbid romantic relationships between his contract actresses and employed drivers, Marla forms a bond with her assigned driver, Frank Forbes. Frank, who is also deeply religious and engaged to his high school sweetheart, finds himself drawn to Marla's charm and ambition as she navigates the complexities of pursuing her dreams in a city that values glamour over substance.

As Marla becomes more entangled in Hughes's erratic world and experiences firsthand the eccentricities of the mogul's life, both she and Frank begin to question the sacrifices they must make for success. The pressure of Hughes's demands and unpredictable behavior tests Marla's resolve and faith, while Frank struggles with his loyalty towards his employer and burgeoning feelings for Marla. Amidst the chaos, the characters grapple with their ideals and ambitions, leading them to confront the limitations and unexpected possibilities of their circumstances.