It is World War II, and The Netherlands is occupied by Nazi Germany. Jelle, a simple fisherman who, in his youth, was an anarchist involved with underground activity in the 1920’s, has just awakened to the threatening sound of approaching military police. Jelle is still sympathetic to the underground cause. Now, seconds before the police arrive, he risks his life to warn the men he has hidden for the night.
Germ, Jelle’s son, is not home when the police arrive. He is a known member of the opposition, and together with his father’s past, the Nazis suspect them both of hiding the resistance fighters and weapons. Jelle is taken into custody and refuses to talk. But he becomes afraid that if he doesn’t confess, his son’s life will be in danger, and he may never see him again. Then, his worst fears are confirmed.
The Police Detective informs Jelle that Germ has been captured and that only Jelle can save him. Going against his principles, Jelle agrees to inform on the freedom fighters once he is reunited with his son. The police refuse. Instead, they bring Germ’s belongings to Jelle as proof that his son is nearby jail cell. But Jelle discovers that he is caught in a trap. Suspecting that his son has already been killed, Jelle refuses to succumb to the enemy. At that moment, with nothing left to live for, Jelle comes to terms with his life and makes a stunning decision that frees him forever.
