This uneven Italian wartime drama looks at the conflict in World War II from another perspective, that of a young fascist. Rather than touting Nazi philosophy as acceptable, the story focuses on Marco (Jacques Charrier), a young soldier in the Italian army, and his first critical examination of his political assumptions. Set during the final days of the war when fascists were losing credence among their own ranks, Marco faces a serious struggle with the beliefs that got him this far. The young soldier is wounded and after a brief respite and involvement with a nurse (Eleonora Rossi Drago), he heads back into battle where his doubts increase and tragedy lies in wait.