The narrative unfolds in the year 1907, where we find Ida Dalser captivated by a powerful speech delivered by the youthful journalist and fervent socialist, Benito Mussolini. Their connection ignites a passionate and tumultuous romance that soon engulfs both their lives. Initially, Mussolini is against Italy's participation in the mounting tensions of the European Great War, but he experiences a dramatic shift in perspective that leads him to embrace a new role in the political landscape. This transition results in his expulsion from the Socialist Party, paving the way for a radical new ideology that will evolve into fascism.
Determined to express his evolving views, Mussolini establishes a newspaper to articulate his convictions. In a selfless act of devotion, Dalser sells off all her possessions to support this venture. As time passes, they welcome a son, Benito, but the war soon claims Mussolini, who goes off to fight, leaving Dalser anxiously awaiting news from him. Eventually, word reaches her, but it brings not solace, but heartbreak; he is recovering in a hospital from his injuries. However, her joy turns to despair when she visits him, discovering that he has taken another wife and has a daughter of his own. Despite her insistence that they are legally married, Mussolini staunchly denies their bond.
From this point onward, Mussolini's presence is relegated to brief newsreel glimpses, symbolizing the increasing divide between him and Dalser, who is left to navigate her own fate in a tumultuous political climate. As the early 1920s roll around, Mussolini has ascended to become Italy's leader, engaging in high-stakes negotiations with the Vatican. Meanwhile, Dalser grows more relentless in her quest to validate her marriage and prove that her son, Benito Albino, is a legitimate heir. Unfortunately, her struggles are met with the full force of the fascist regime, culminating in her being committed to an asylum. Persisting in her efforts to be heard even from behind those walls, she writes to newspapers and even the Pope himself, yet her insistence ultimately leads to further tragedies, including the committing of her son to a separate asylum.
As the narrative progresses, Dalser experiences a gradual spiral into madness, ensnared by the oppressive grip of the regime and her haunting memories. The film culminates with a sobering caption detailing the official causes of death: Dalser’s demise in 1937 and her son's in 1942. However, the closing scenes present a chilling suggestion that the true fate of either—or both—may have involved foul play, shrouded in mysterious circumstances as a final commentary on their harrowing struggle against a formidable and ruthless political system.
