In Norway in the 1600s, An-Magritt is born as the result of a rape.

The movie depicts the events from July until September of 1914 which led to the defeat of the German troops at the Marne. While Sebastian Haffner explains and comments on operations and decisions on the basis of situation maps, key scenes are depicted by actors. A main focus is thereby placed by Haffner onto the controversial mission of lieutenant-colonel Richard Hentsch who is said to have, during a war patrol to the various army high commands, contributed to the abortion of the operations significantly.

Kim Philby is the best British professional spy. The only difference is that, as a leading official in the British secret service, he not only works for the British side, but also as a double agent for the Soviets. He is supported by the diplomats Burgess and McLean.