Mayerling 1936 Rudolf, Crown Prince of Austria, is fettered on all sides Hes bored his father, the emperor, is domineering his politics are more liberal than his fathers, but he knows his views carry no weight He agrees to marry a princess to sire an heir, then spends his nights as a playboy In 1888, he meets Marie Vetsera, 17, a baronesss daughter She is resolute, smitten, and wants nothing in return for her love The Prime Minister is alarmed he contrives to have her sent away Rudolf sinks into dissipation When she returns, how will the lovers handle the opposition of society and their families Can Rudolf find a way for them to be together