Hans Christian Andersen, a socially awkward nobody, moves to Copenhagen with dreams of conquering Denmark's cultural elite and becoming a famous artist. In a colourful and merciless world of actors, playwrights and snobbish benefactors, Christian fiercely fights to get the recognition and love he so desperately craves. But his own delusions of grandeur may turn out to be his greatest weakness; the last thing he wants is to be known as a children's fairytale writer.