INT. RUNDSTEDT’S ESTATE – DAY
Field Marshal Gerd von Rundstedt, deep in thought, reflects on the events following his relief of command. He remembers the bloody aftermath of the failed July 20th plot, which has challenged his conscience.
INT. RUNDSTEDT’S STUDY – NIGHT – FLASHBACK
Rundstedt had been aware of various plots within the officer corps to depose Hitler. Despite feeling conflicted, he neither supported nor reported them, resisting attempts to recruit him into these conspiracies.
INT. RUNDSTEDT’S LIVING ROOM – DAY – FLASHBACK
Rundstedt’s wife, LUISE VON RUNDSTEDT, hands him a newspaper with the headline of the failed July 20th plot. Rundstedt reads the article, his face a mixture of shock and disbelief.
RUNDSTEDT (muttering) Such a thing is a base, bare-faced treachery. If I had been involved…
His words trail off, a troubled look crossing his face.
INT. RUNDSTEDT’S STUDY – NIGHT – FLASHBACK
Rundstedt’s son, LEUTNANT HANS-GERD VON RUNDSTEDT, visits him. The father and son have a tense discussion, full of doubts and fears about the resistance and the future of Germany.
INT. GERMAN HIGH COMMAND – DAY – FLASHBACK
Pressured by Hitler, Rundstedt, wrestling with his traditional sense of duty, heads the “Court of Honor,” expelling many military officers who are resistance members from the army, thereby handing them over to the People’s Court for trial and eventual execution in humiliation.
INT. COURTROOM – DAY – FLASHBACK
Rundstedt watches as the accused officers are paraded before the court. He maintains a stern, stoic expression, but his eyes betray a hint of turmoil. This decision has alienated him from the surviving resistance members, including officers he once respected and trusted.
INT. GERMAN HIGH COMMAND – DAY – FLASHBACK
Scenes of escalating conflict and chaos within the German High Command ensue following the trial. Rundstedt’s actions have created a ripple effect, leading to further distrust and division within the military.
INT. RUNDSTEDT’S ESTATE – DAY
Back in the present, Rundstedt continues to grapple with his past decisions and their consequences. He wonders if there is still a chance for him to make amends and serve his nation with honor. As he reflects, his gaze falls on a photograph of him and his son, Hans.