In the middle of an up-and-coming film metropolis in East Germany: screenwriter Rupert has barricaded himself in his sparse flat instead of encountering life and people.

His texts reflect this distance - lifeless, because Rupert does not allow any human connections. He is brought back down to earth by a producer. His work lacks what makes stories truly touching: authenticity and heart.

Meanwhile, the city's largest production studio is plunged into chaos. Shortly before the start of shooting a monumental film, the actor Mo Merino, famous for his method acting, disappears without a trace. In order to find its star, the studio hires the cynical and washed-up private detective Lutz. He wants to complete the job quickly and pragmatically - until Rupert and the impetuous young reporter Mara get involved in his case.

Rupert senses his chance to finally gather material for an authentic film script and is able to convince Lutz to join the search. Although the two have nothing in common, they realise that they need each other. They are soon pursued by shady characters and uncover an extremist conspiracy that reaches all the way to the top of the film studio.