Ann Todd ("Francesca") is a renowned concert pianist being treated by psychiatrist Herbert Lom ("Dr. Larsen") after she tried to commit suicide. To establish what has driven her to this, we delve back into her past as she goes to live with her rather austere, wealthy, distant cousin "Nicholas" (James Mason) who starts her off on her rather lonely path to success. Only when she falls in love with "Max" (Albert Lievin) does she start to confront her fears - and Mason - and try to break free from his control. Aside from some wonderful classical accompaniments as she plays the concert halls of…