Bruno, an unsuccessful director, is recently separated from his wife Anna, with whom he has two children. When Bruno is diagnosed with leukaemia, his father reluctantly reveals a well-kept secret that offers Bruno renewed hope.

In Rome, young Valerio feels scared for his family's safety after a failed attempt on his father's life. But in the summer of 1986, he builds a powerful friendship with Christian, an older boy who might just help Valerio find his lost innocence.