Max Rothman (Cusack) a promoising artist returns from WWI to Munich (1918) minius an arm and the ability to paint. Upon his return he opens a Gallery where he meets a struggling young artist ADOLF HITLER whom he encourages in his artisc talent. Meanwhile the lonely penniless Hitler becomes envious of the wealthy and very popular background of Max's German JEWISH family. Hitler turns to politics, thus setting into motion the most cataclysmic period in world history.