The notorious Marquis de Sade is confined to an asylum during the reign of Napoleon, but continues to write and distribute his sexually provocative fiction with the aid of a laundry girl. When a particularly scandalous piece reaches an outraged Napoleon, a puritanical doctor is placed in charge of the hospital and a battle of wills commences. Period drama, starring Geoffrey Rush, Kate Winslet, Michael Caine, Joaquin Phoenix and Billie Whitelaw.

In early 19th-century France, the Marquis de Sade is confined to an asylum where his forbidden writings continue to circulate beyond its walls. As the authorities tighten control, a clash unfolds between the Marquis’ unyielding imagination, the reformist ideals of the Abbé in charge, and the repressive measures of a doctor sent to silence him. Desire, power, and censorship collide in a battle over freedom of expression.