Based on the scandalous novel by Émile Zola, Thérèse Raquin tells the story of a young woman (Kate Nelligan), who is bored with her mundane life and trapped in a marriage with her feebleminded cousin, Camille (Kenneth Cranham). When Camille brings home his childhood friend, Laurent (Brian Cox), the romantic chemistry between Thérèse and Laurent is undeniable.