The soldiers, led by Lieutenant Raffaele Montini (played by Italian actor Diego Abatantuono), are initially uneasy on the island, feeling isolated and unsure of their mission. However, they soon become accustomed to their new surroundings and begin to bond with the locals, including a young woman named Vasilissa (played by Greek actress Ariane Labed).
As time passes, the soldiers become more and more relaxed and carefree, fishing, playing soccer with the locals, and even taking a siesta in the heat of the day. They are oblivious to the war that is raging on around them, and instead focus on enjoying their idyllic island life.
But when a British soldier named Oliver (played by British actor Jasper Jacob) washes up on the shore, they are reminded of the war and the danger that surrounds them. Lt. Montini must decide whether to trust Oliver and work with him to defend the island against enemy attacks, or to continue living in blissful ignorance and risk being taken over by the enemy.
As the soldiers become more familiar with their surroundings, they begin to discover the beauty and charm of the island, falling in love with its people and its way of life. However, they must also confront the harsh realities of war, and decide whether they are willing to fight to defend their adopted home.
The film, directed by Gabriele Salvatores, won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1992, and is a moving, funny, and ultimately poignant story about the human experience of war and the power of community.
