In April 1988, on the eve of the first round of the French presidential election, on the New Caledonian island of Ouvéa an independence group demonstrates against a law decreasing their rights. The Kanak and Socialist National Liberation Front (FLNKS)'s initial intention is peaceful, but shots are fired in the sudden turmoil and four policemen die. When the FLNKS retreat with hostages, France sends 300 soldiers to fight against them. The captain of the special armed forces, Philippe Legorfus (Mathieu Kassovitz) tries to avoid an assault by opening dialogue with the FLNKS, but decisions are being made in light of the election far away in Paris...

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