The year is 1544. Under the supervision of Henry VIII (Jonathan Rhys Meyers), the Earl of Surrey (David O'Hara) and his men attempt to tunnel their way into the French castle at Boulogne. Clearly pleased to be once again in the field of battle, the King dines and entertains in style at his tent some distance from the action. But progress is slow and conditions are appalling for his soldiers. Over two thousand men die of disease and starvation and another three thousand fall ill as 'the flux' sweeps the King's camp. When hope of success seems all but lost, Treviso (Daniel Caltagirone), the King's engineer, creates a spectacular explosion in the tunnel that finally breaches the castle. The French surrender to a gloating Henry who returns to England in triumph and commands festivities and celebrations throughout the land.