Jeanne du Barry (Maïwenn) follows Jeanne Vaubernier, a woman born into poverty who uses her intellect and charms to climb the social ladder, rising to the opulent court of King Louis XV of France (Johnny Depp). On her official introduction to the King, their attraction is irresistible and Jeanne becomes his favourite courtesan, reigniting his appetite for life. The two fall madly in love and against all convention, Jeanne moves into the Palace of Versailles as scandal and revolution ensue.