Prinz in Hölleland is set soon after the reunification of West and East Germany. The story revolves around the disintegrating relationship between Jockel, a political activist, and Stefan, a heroin junkie. Their involvement with the bisexual Micha adds complexity to their dynamic.
Another plot line follows Micha's young son Sascha, who navigates a world of drugs and poverty. Sascha is fascinated by the creepy puppeteer Firlefanz, whose grotesque puppets act out a gay fairy tale mirroring Stefan and Jockel's relationship.
At the center of the characters' downfall is the drug dealer Ingolf, who manipulates them with heroin, akin to puppet strings.