Nico, 1988

As the sounds of war fade into memory, Christa Päffgen's gaze lingers on the ravaged landscape of Berlin, a haunting reminder of the devastating consequences of conflict. Fast-forward to 1988, and Päffgen, now rebranded as Nico, has transcended her wartime experiences to become an enigmatic figure in the world of art and music. As a model and singer for the Velvet Underground, she's cultivated an aura of bohemian sophistication, carefully guarding the secrets of her past and reveling in the freedom that comes with reinventing herself.

With her new manager, Richard, at the helm, Nico sets out on a European tour, accompanied by a band assembled to bring her unique brand of music to life. However, beneath the glamour and glitz lies a complex web of dependencies, as Nico's addiction to heroin threatens to derail her performances and relationships alike. In Italy, her frustration boils over during a concert, as she lashes out at her band and then storms off stage, leaving a trail of disillusionment in her wake.

Yet, amidst the chaos, Nico forms an unlikely bond with Dome La Muerte, who becomes her confidant and spiritual guide. As they navigate the twists and turns of their tour, Nico opens up about the traumas she endured during World War II, including poverty and hunger, which have shaped her perspective on life and fuel her insatiable desire for excess.

During an impromptu interview in Paris, Nico's thoughts turn to her son, Ari, whom she left behind due to her tumultuous lifestyle. A visit to his institution in France serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of her choices, leading Nico to confront the realities of her own demons.

When local dissident artists in communist Czechoslovakia invite Nico to perform a guerrilla gig, Richard agrees, despite the risks involved. As tensions rise backstage, Nico's frustration boils over when she's unable to procure heroin, prompting an accusation that her hosts have stolen her passport. But just as it seems like her performance is about to be derailed, Richard delivers a stern reminder of Nico's enduring impact on fans worldwide and the bravery of the Czechoslovakian audience for taking a chance on her music.

As the lights dim and Nico takes the stage, she unleashes a passionate performance that electrifies the crowd. However, just as the momentum is building, police raid the venue, bringing an abrupt end to the night's festivities. Amidst the chaos and uncertainty, Nico's true character – a complex tapestry of vulnerability, resilience, and artistic passion – is finally revealed.

As Nico and her band make their way to West Germany, they concoct a plan for her swan song performance in West Berlin. Richard (character), impressed by her showstopping talent, offers his support to help her kick her addiction and reunite with Ari, who's been institutionalized. For a while, things look up for Nico and her bandmates as she trades in the allure of drugs for a healthier lifestyle. However, just as it seems like they're on the mend, tragedy strikes when Ari attempts self-destruction and finds himself hospitalized. Nico confides in Dome that she intends to hang up her mic and instead focus on aging with grace.

Following this tumultuous period, Richard encourages Ari and Nico to take a prolonged break to recuperate from their ordeal. He skillfully negotiates a new deal with Nico, ensuring they'll both reap the rewards of her past successes with The Velvet Underground, including a promise to collaborate on a new album upon her return. With a newfound sense of purpose and resolve, Nico embarks on a solo sojourn to Ibiza, seeking solace in the island's laid-back atmosphere.

Little did she know, this would be her final escape.