Set in France's Belle Epoque before World War 1, retired courtesan Charlotte (Kathy Bates) asks her former colleague, Lea (Michelle Pfeiffer), to instruct her son Cheri (Rupert Friend), in the ways of love. The result is a passionate affair that lasts six years. Incensed, Charlotte arranges for Cheri to marry a younger woman, and insists the affair come to an end. Lea retreats to southern France, but eventually destiny brings the two lovers together once more. Director Stephen Frears was nominated for the Golden Bear Award at the Berlin Film Festival.