In the 1970s, a family faces the challenges of military life and emotional complications in an environment characterized by rigidity and discipline. The patriarch, a tough lieutenant colonel in the Marine Corps, demands a level of perfection from his loved ones that not only keeps them in constant tension but also reveals the cracks in their relationship. The story follows his wife, who navigates a landscape of sacrifice and expectations while trying to balance her love for her husband with the defense of her children.
The children, especially the youngest, find themselves caught between the desire to earn their father's approval and the struggle to find their own identity. As the lieutenant colonel pushes his family to extreme limits, the story explores the complexity of fatherhood and the impact this authoritarian approach has on the emotional lives of everyone involved. Through intense moments, the film addresses themes of pride and vulnerability, showing how love can be as destructive as it is nurturing.
Ultimately, each character must confront their own internal struggle, leading to an emotional climax that tests the family bonds. This raw and honest portrayal of the American family resonates with anyone who has experienced the pressure of living up to parental expectations while seeking their own path in the world.