In 17th century Spain Diego Alatriste, a brave and heroic soldier, is fighting in his King's army in the Flandes region. His best mate, Balboa, falls in a trap and, near to death, asks Diego to look after his son and teach him to be a soldier.

A special highlighting actor/producer/director Robert Redford's 30-year career in motion pictures and his special relationship with director Sidney Pollack.