As the Spanish Civil War rages on, passions also ignite between Irish governess Mary Lavelle (Polly Walker) and her employer's married son, Francisco Areavaga (Vincent Perez), who, against his relatives' wishes, rails openly against the president, General Franco. Should Mary continue her affair -- the ultimate act of disloyalty to a family that trusts her -- or go home to face a failed engagement? Co-stars Penelope Cruz and Frances McDormand.