In 1959, in the prison of Santo Stefano, located on an Italian island, Bruno D'Assisi, the just arrived new director, tries to make is best to improve prisoners' life conditions, with the help of some of the prison guards. Witness of his efforts is Antonio, the twelve years old son of Bruno who develops a deep friendship with Nicola, a lifer Bruno trusts very much. But after just one year the situation becomes more and more complicated, and when Bruno comes back on the island after a shot vacation, finds things have radically changed, becoming even worst of the ones he originally found when he arrived at Santo Stefano the first time. He's also considered responsible when Nicola escapes from the prison