Robert Sandrich (Peter Sarsgaard) is a struggling screenwriter until he discovers someone wants to buy his script, The Dying Gaul, about the death of his lover, for $1 million. However, the studio...

Robert Sandrich (Peter Sarsgaard) is a struggling screenwriter until he discovers someone wants to buy his script, The Dying Gaul, about the death of his lover, for $1 million. However, the studio wants to change one of the characters to a woman. Jeffrey (Campbell Scott), the studio executive uses his power, money and sex to convince Robert to change the script. Jeffrey’s wife, Elaine (Patricia Clarkson), a former screenwriter now a housewife bonds with fellow writer Robert. But things come to a head when Elaine finds out about her husband's affair