In 19th-century Russia, Rasputin influences the Russian court after his strange powers heal the sick son of the Tsar. In 16th-century France, Queen Catherine de Medici poisons her enemies and is called "Madame Serpent". Sweeney Todd, and 18th-century English barber, runs a sinister business. His customers are disappearing and his neighbour is famous for her delicious meat pies. But what is the secret ingredient in them?