In an African nation on the brink of independence, the tense political context serves as the backdrop for a British detachment stationed at a remote base. As the army grapples with deep internal divisions and moral dilemmas, the newcomer Captain T.V.L. Galbraith, an experienced yet somewhat cynical officer, finds himself caught between his orders and his growing awareness of the injustice of the situation.
The base is under the supervision of a veteran sergeant who, weary of the instability, clings to old military traditions, but the climate complicates when an insurrection gains strength in the country. The soldiers must contend with the echoes of colonialism and reflect on their own loyalties as tensions rise. Meanwhile, a group of natives is organizing for an impending rebellion, ready to fight for their sovereignty.
Amid this turmoil, the story reveals both the humanity and flaws of the characters, presenting a raw and honest portrait of the effects of colonialism. With incisive direction and masterful performances, the film presents a profound moral dilemma, questioning the role of soldiers in a war that no longer seems sensible. All culminates in an inevitable confrontation that changes the course for everyone, making each decision feel like a bullet that could either hit the mark or miss spectacularly.