Set during the final days of the Korean conflict, the film focuses on an idealistic private (Redford) who is sent to the front lines to aid a battle weary platoon. When he discovers that one of his fellow men (Saxon) is secretly crossing enemy lines to brutally murder Korean soldier, the two clash over the ethics of killing. Their relationship is further challenged by their respective friendships with a Korean orphan.  This striking work, which features a strong, early performance from Redford considers the consequences of the endgame and the practical function of violent acts.