On a cold morning in Minnesota, a mediocre car salesman, Jerry Lundegaard, finds himself at a financial crossroads that leads him to devise a plan much darker than he ever imagined. Desperate for money, he decides to hire two small-time criminals, Carl and Gaear, to kidnap his wife, intending for his wealthy father-in-law to pay the ransom. However, things do not go as planned. What should be a simple transaction spirals into a whirlwind of violence and chaos.
Meanwhile, Detective Marge Gunderson, a pregnant and shrewd local police officer, begins investigating a series of murders that arise from this criminal entanglement. With her methodical approach and sharp intuition, Marge unravels the complex web of lies and betrayals while grappling with the ineptitude of the men around her. Throughout her investigation, she realizes that the seductive charm of everyday life can conceal the darkest secrets.
The story is a unique blend of dark humor and drama that showcases the mediocrity of suburban life, all framed by the eerie beauty of Minnesota's winter landscape. With unexpected twists and a brilliant cast, the narrative reveals how even the most seemingly innocuous decisions can lead to a tragic and unforeseen outcome. In the end, it becomes clear that the line between right and wrong can be surprisingly thin.