Set against the backdrop of major historical events at the turn of the 20th century, the story unfolds through the lives of two families from different social strata in England. The Marryots, an upper-class family, and the Bridges, their loyal servants, navigate the changing tides of British society from the Second Boer War through the sinking of the Titanic, to the outbreak of World War I. Their personal triumphs, tragedies, and intertwined destinies reflect the monumental societal shifts happening around them, offering a poignant look at the impact of global events on individual lives.

As the years progress, both families experience love, loss, and the challenges brought about by progress and tumultuous times. The narrative delves into the contrasting realities of service and privilege, yet it also highlights the common humanity that binds these characters together. Their personal journeys, marked by moments of both joy and sorrow, reveal the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Through their stories, the film portrays the relentless march of time and the inevitable changes it brings, capturing the essence of an era.