[1] The film tells the story of three British soldiers during World War I, on the Western Front in 1916.

During an abortive assault on the German trenches the three become trapped in no man's land as night falls.

Another soldier knows that a massive artillery bombardment is due to begin soon and staying where they are would result in certain death.

The three begin a retreat back to the Allied trenches pursued by the ever-watchful German soldiers who suspect that another attack is imminent.

During the journey, there are a number of flashbacks to England and the soldiers' private lives, which are discussed at various times.