The story centers on the crew of a Danish cargo ship that is hijacked by Somali pirates in the Indian Ocean. Among the crew is the ship's cook, Mikkel, who becomes a central figure in the unfolding drama. The pirates demand a hefty ransom for the safe release of the crew and the ship. As the negotiations for their release begin, the emotional and psychological toll on both the captive crew members and their families back home becomes increasingly evident. The narrative delves into the ordeal of the hostages, who are forced to endure harsh conditions, uncertainty, and fear as the days stretch into weeks.

Back in Denmark, the shipping company's CEO, Peter, takes charge of the negotiation process, guided by a professional hostage negotiator. The film meticulously portrays the complex and high-stakes negotiation process, capturing the tense and often frustrating exchanges between the company and the pirates. The story highlights the ethical and moral dilemmas faced by the CEO as he navigates the thin line between securing the crew's safety and fulfilling his fiduciary duties to the company. Through these negotiations, the film explores themes of corporate responsibility, human resilience in the face of adversity, and the personal cost of global maritime commerce.