In a picturesque village in Dartmoor, the life of a gloomy barber named Joe intertwines with that of a young woman named Edna, who works as a maid in a nearby hotel. Joe harbors an obsessive love for Edna, who, despite her charm, feels trapped in a monotonous life and seeks to escape her routine. Realizing that her feelings are not reciprocal, Joe sinks into despair, while Edna, driven by a longing for adventure, begins to have fun with another man, a hotel guest who piques her interest.
As the tension mounts, the story darkens when Joe's obsession spirals into dangerous desperation. In an unexpected turn of events, his jealousy leads to a tragic confrontation, unleashing a series of events that will change their lives forever. Set against the landscape of Dartmoor, love, betrayal, and madness intertwine in this intense visual narrative that employs the symbolism of the natural environment as a reflection of the characters' internal emotions.
The unsettling atmosphere builds with each scene, leading the viewer to a heartbreaking climax where impulsive decisions and fate intertwine. With innovative cinematography for its time, this silent film masterpiece serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of obsession and desire.