The story unfolds in Milan, where a right-wing newspaper, Il Giornale, is embroiled in the sensationalized coverage of a young girl's murder. The paper’s editor, Bizanti, is a cunning man who manipulates stories to fit his political agenda, often sacrificing truth for sensationalism. He pressures his staff to concoct narratives that enhance the paper’s influence and serve the interests of the wealthy elite controlling it. As the investigation into the murder deepens, Bizanti orchestrates a headline-grabbing campaign targeting leftist groups and political radicals, intending to exploit public fear and bias. This concocted narrative stirs societal tensions, spurring unrest and manipulating public sentiment to align with the paper’s ideological inclinations.

The film delves into the ethical challenges faced by journalists at Il Giornale. A younger reporter, Roveda, increasingly questions the morality of their tactics and struggles with the apparent conflict between journalistic integrity and personal ambition. As tensions rise in the newsroom and beyond, Roveda grapples with whether to continue supporting Bizanti’s manipulative schemes or to break away and seek truth independently. The movie portrays a gripping atmosphere of political intrigue and manipulation, examining issues of power, ethics, and the role of media in shaping public perception during tumultuous times. The converging personal and political conflicts create an intense narrative that reflects on the broader socio-political climate of Italy during this era.