Several Brigadier Generals (American, British, and French) are unexpectedly taken prisoner by the Italian Army while arguing military tactics in a sauna; this is a public relations disaster for the Allies.

Accepting the mission, Frigg is "promoted" to Major General so that he will outrank all the prisoners, assume command and lead the resultant breakout.

It starts in his bedroom and takes him to the gatehouse outside the villa's fence where the owner of the property, Countess Francesca De Montefiore (Sylva Koscina) is living.

On the eve of the group's intended breakout, Colonel Ferrucci announces that because of the low escape rate in the complex, he is to be promoted to Brigadier General at midnight the following night.

The film concludes with Frigg ending the war as a Sergeant Major; he is offered the opportunity to be in charge of a radio station, and a promotion to second lieutenant.