In an opening sequence set in a church, we witness a courageous English journalist, Joe Strombel, as he is eulogized by friends and colleagues. They gather at a bar afterward, raising a toast in his memory, contemplating where he might be now. Suddenly, we find ourselves aboard the barge that ferries the recently deceased to their eternal resting place. Here, Joe Strombel (portrayed by Ian McShane) tries to bribe the ferryman, initiating a conversation with another spirit, Jane Cook, the former secretary of Peter Lyman (played by Hugh Jackman), who is suspected to be linked to a notorious murder spree.
Jane believes she was murdered by Lyman, associating him with a series of killings referred to as the "Tarot Card murders." Joe recalls writing about these unsolved cases, intrigued by Jane's claim that Lyman had lost a specific cufflink before her demise, which might offer a clue to his guilt. Jane's ominous story unfolds as she reveals that she suspected her tea was poisoned before her sudden death, intensifying Joe's curiosity and despair over his inability to share this explosive information.
Meanwhile, at the luxurious Dorchester Hotel, American journalism student Sondra Pransky is full of excitement as she meets the film director Tinsley. However, her hopes crumble when he turns out to be more interested in seducing her than in granting an interview. This setback leaves her disillusioned, and despite a friend's attempts to console her, she's distraught over missed opportunities. As Joe sulks on the death barge, he takes the bold step of diving into the River Styx, leaving the afterlife behind.
At a stage show, Pransky becomes part of an act by magician Splendini (Woody Allen), during which she experiences a surreal vision of Joe Strombel, who reveals critical details about the ongoing murders before vanishing. Upon returning home, she dives into research about the Tarot Card killer, discovering a pattern associated with his victims. This revelation fuels her determination to expose Lyman's dark secrets.
She seeks out Splendini, sharing her incredible experience in hopes of contacting Joe again. Though skeptical, he reluctantly agrees to help her attempt to reconnect. Following several attempts that yield no results initially, Joe finally materializes, providing her with crucial information regarding Lyman's connections and suggesting that she pursue the story independently, as her life may depend on it.
Pransky embarks on a perilous investigation, using her wits to infiltrate Lyman's world. She attends a garden party at his estate under the guise of a wealthy socialite, from which she hopes to uncover the truth. Their interactions become increasingly flirtatious, heightening the tension as she ponders whether her feelings for him cloud her judgment.
As the story unravels, Pransky faces conflicting emotions about Lyman while pursuing leads with Waterman, who becomes increasingly wary of what they might unearth. During conversations, nuances in Lyman's past emerge, and the stakes rise as they link him to the murder of a recent victim.
Amid budding romance, a thrilling game ensues as Pransky grapples between her feelings and her instincts. Tragedy looms as the revelations lead Lyman to confess in a chilling confession of guilt, speculating on a dark future for Pransky and Waterman. Just when it seems all hope is lost, Pransky utilizes her resourcefulness to turn the tides, outsmarting Lyman and remaining alive against all odds.
In the explosive climax, following intense sequences filled with intrigue and deception, Pransky manages to bring Lyman to justice with her investigative skills ignited by Joe's spectral push from beyond the grave, culminating in a bittersweet triumph for all involved as she pens her story. Even in death, Joe watches over her as she acknowledges the lives intertwined in her journey, ultimately honoring both her fallen mentor Joe Strombel and creative partner Sidney Waterman who sacrificed much in their pursuit of truth. The finale leaves us lingering on the undying connection forged through their harrowing escapades.
