Ambitious and ruthless Frankie Fane claws his way up from a tough neighborhood to Hollywood stardom. He begins his career as a struggling nightclub performer but quickly learns how to manipulate, charm, and betray anyone who stands in his way. Fane's relentless pursuit of fame leads him to romance and marry the beautiful Kay Bergdahl, who becomes a pawn in his schemes. As his career skyrockets, Fane alienates those closest to him, including his loyal agent Hymie Kelly and his best friend, encouraging a perception of himself as the epitome of success.

However, beneath the glitz and glamour, Fane’s unethical actions begin to catch up with him. His rise to prominence comes with mounting personal costs, impacting his relationships and his integrity. The tensions culminate as he sets his sights on winning the film industry's most prestigious accolade, believing it to be the ultimate validation of his status. As tensions reach a boiling point, the true cost of his ambition threatens to dismantle the life he has so ruthlessly constructed.