Temple Drake, a sophisticated and flirtatious young woman from a prominent Southern family, becomes embroiled in a scandal that her privileged upbringing failed to prepare her for. Despite her refined exterior, Temple frequently indulges her wild side. One night, after attending a raucous party at a local speakeasy, she accepts a ride home from Toddy Gowan, a young man of lesser social standing who harbors feelings for her. Their journey takes a dark turn when their car crashes, leaving them stranded. Seeking help, they stumble upon a group of bootleggers led by the menacing Trigger, who takes a sinister interest in Temple.

Following the accident, events spiral into a nightmarish sequence. Toddy is brutally assaulted and incapacitated by Trigger's gang, while Temple is taken to an isolated farmhouse. Here, she encounters sexually predatory behavior and becomes entangled in a web of violence and intimidation. As the law draws near and moral boundaries are pushed to their limits, Temple must find the courage and resources to confront her harrowing situation. A high-profile trial ensues, revealing dark secrets and challenging societal norms, ultimately forcing Temple to decide where her true strength lies.