A political candidate refusing to play politics? Sounds refreshing. Unfortunately, in ancient Rome it turns tragic. For his valour in defeating an uprising against Rome, Coriolanus is nominated for political office. His opponents, however, are quick to seize on his fatal flaw: his refusal to play the political games demanded by the common people.

Soon, the man of the hour becomes a hated outcast, and vows a terrible revenge. Plunged once more into bloodshed and chaos, the Romans realize their fate now lies in the hands of one woman -- Coriolanus' mother, Volumnia.