The story follows Edward, who was left alone in a hilltop mansion after his inventor died before giving him real hands. He is discovered by (Dianne Wiest), a kind Avon saleswoman who brings him to her colorful suburban neighborhood. Edward initially becomes a local sensation for his hedge-trimming and hair-cutting skills, but his unique appearance and naivety eventually lead to conflict. At its core, the film is a tragic love story between Edward and Peg's daughter, Kim (Winona Ryder).