Set in the 1920’s John Whittaker (Ben Barnes), of an aristocratic English family meets, falls madly in love with and marries American racecar driver Larita (Jessica Biel). The young couple proceeds to move into John’s inherited estate for the holidays, much to the consternation of his mother Ms. Whittaker (Kristen Scott Thomas) who disapproves her thoroughly inappropriate daughter in law. Mrs. Whittaker begins her game, in an attempt to undermine Larita. Hoping her son will divorce his American wife and instead marry marry Sarah, the daughter of their wealthy neighbour Lord Hurst. Rounding out the cast is the emotionally absent Mr. Whittaker (Colin Firth), who is still affected from is time fighting in WWI.