An elderly couple living in a remote village with their mischievous son, Herbert, are presented with a macabre souvenir from India: a withered monkey's paw. Upon receiving this strange gift, the couple are warned of its dangers - that though it has the power to grant wishes, it exacts a terrible price for them. Disbelieving such fanciful ideas, the old man makes a wish that brings the most terrible events imaginable into their lives.