President Mariano De Santis' term in office is coming to an end. Because of his unyielding nature and extremely cautious approach to politics, he is disparagingly referred to as “Cemento armato” (concrete head). He mourns his deceased wife alone in the echoing halls of the presidential palace. Shortly before leaving office, De Santis still has to decide on two petitions for clemency. In doing so, he encounters a moral dilemma that is closely linked to his personal life. Torn between political responsibility and private conscience, he struggles to make a decision that will shape his legacy.

The film was selected as the opening film of the Venice International Film Festival, where lead actor Toni Servillo was honored for his performance.