In Northern Italy, WWI has turned into a bloody stalemate. Bogged down in their trenches on a barren highland, the men of an Italian infantry division have been given one objective: retake a commanding height from the enemy. Unfortunately, the tactical ingenuity of general Leone, the unpopular division commander, consists of supplementing frontal attacks against machine-guns with medieval fighting schemes. His dispirited troops must be prodded with ever harsher measures into storming the Austrian positions.

As casualties mount, indignation spreads amongst the rank and file. Disturbed by the decisions of his superiors, lieutenant Sassu is progressively led to question the purpose of the war and to reconsider where his real duties lie.

• Digitally restored in collaboration with the National Cinematheque and The Turin National Film Museum under the supervision of Francesco Rosi
• Before and after Restoration
• Interview with the Director (28 min)
• New and improved English subtitle translation
• Fully illustrated booklet on the genesis and production of the Film