Raised in a den of pretty thieves, or "fingersmiths," plucky orphan Sue Trinder (Sally Hawkins) agrees to help a con man known as Gentleman (Rupert Evans) defraud and betray wealthy heiress Maud Lilly (Elaine Cassidy).

But Sue's plans are turned upside down when she falls in love with Maud. Then the women are separated--each to her own hellish prison--just as they realize the strength of their passion for each other.