Spain in 1939 is in turmoil after the bloody and divisive Spanish Civil War. Spain is being led by General Francisco Franco who successfully led a coup against the moderate Spanish government and now rules the country as a ruthless dictator backed by the strength of the military. While a majority of the Spanish citizens are opposed to the war, they live in fear of being viewed as traitors and facing a cruel death at the hands of Franco. Antonio Garcia and his best friend, Pedro Lopez, are beginning their first year of studies at the University of Barcelona and are strongly opposed to the war and Franco. Antonio's new girlfriend, Maria, is an anti-Franco activist and encourages Antonio to join her in the protests. Antonio comes from a military family and cannot publicly participate, though he supports them quietly.
The Spanish government institutes a mandatory military draft and, to their horror, both Antonio and Pedro are assigned to work on the administrative detail of Franco. Over time, Franco takes a liking to Antonio and appreciates his intellect and common sense. Similarly, Antonio begins to see the "human" side of Franco and becomes his protege. Franco rapidly promotes Antonio into a troop leadership position and strategic advisor.
After returning from a successful military campaign, Antonio is surprised to see that both Pedro and Maria want nothing to do with him. Antonio reflects on how he has changed and on what he has become. He wonders whether his success has been worth the sacrifice of losing the love and support of the people closest to him.
Antonio reunites with Maria and pledges to actively support the anti-Franco movement despite the obvious risks to his life. His traitorous actions climax in an emotional showdown with Franco where their diverging values and loyalties are put to the ultimate test.
