 Colonel Wlliam Ludlow (Anthony Hopkins) and his 3 sons (Samuel, Tristan and Alfred) live in the Rocky Mountains of Montana, USA, at the beginning of the 20th century. When Samuel brings with him his fiancé Susanna, the fellowship of the 3 brothers is about to be broken. The eldest son, Alfred (Aidan Quinn), falls in love with Susanna, and she falls in love with Tristan (Brad Pitt). Thing becomes worse when the three brothers decide to join the first World War in Europe in 1914, despite their father s objection. The bond of the brothers is about to be broken forever, and so is Colonel William s heart.