The story follows a cabaret singer in Berlin, played by , who may be an amnesiac Italian countess named Maria. She is tracked down by a friend of Maria's husband, Bruno (Melvyn Douglas), and returns to an Italian villa to reclaim her life.
: A central theme is that identity is an artificial construct; the heroine declares she will be whoever those around her believe her to be. As You Desire Me
: The film is known for its opulent costumes designed by Adrian , including Garbo's notable peroxide blonde wig and striking "Cap without a lid". Critical Consensus The story follows a cabaret singer in Berlin,
Community members often debate the performances and the film's eccentric tone. : The film is known for its opulent
: The film leaves it largely ambiguous whether she is truly the missing wife or a masterful imposter, a "Pirandellian mystery" that keeps viewers guessing. Performance and Style