 The film is set among the Back Bay uppercrust of the 19th century.Basil Ransom (Christopher Reeve), bored by his opulent lifestyle and his "proper" friends, is fascinated by his cousin, outspoken suffragette Olive Chancellor (Vanessa Redgrave).Basil and Olive's mutual friend is likeable, gregarious Verena Tannant (Madeleine Potter).