In a gripping tale set in 18th century Russia, a young German noblewoman named Sofia, with grand dreams of power and sophistication, is brought to the Russian court through a shrewd marital maneuver. Transformed into the wife of the future Emperor Peter III, Sofia adopts the name Catherine and faces a world filled with intrigue, rivalries, and betrayals. As life at court unfolds, Catherine feels trapped between her ambition and the oppressive reality that surrounds her.
While Peter shows a disinterest in governance and his responsibilities, Catherine discovers her own strength and leadership abilities. As tensions rise and her husband becomes increasingly unpopular, Catherine orchestrates a series of unexpected alliances with discontented nobles and other members of the court. Over time, her ingenuity makes her a key figure in the power struggles that shake the empire.
Told with a stylized visual approach that captures the opulence and drama of the era, this story of personal and political growth delves into the dilemmas of love and ambition. Catherine, who was born to be a mere consort, soon becomes one of the most powerful figures in history, defying the expectations of her time and seeking her own legacy in a male-dominated world. With unexpected twists and a star-studded cast, the film presents a captivating portrait of a woman who refuses to be consigned to oblivion.