A biopic of noted painter Francis Bacon (Derek Jacobi), this film focuses on the artist's unlikely and tumultuous relationship with erstwhile thief George Dyer (Daniel Craig), who became Bacon's lover after a botched break-in. After the unique beginning to their love affair, the well-connected and volatile artist assimilates Dyer into his circle of eccentric and often cold friends, including the caustic Muriel Belcher (Tilda Swinton), as Dyer's struggle with addiction strains their bond.