Argentina, 1982. Carlos Casaffousth, a gifted young engineer, finds his life taking a profound turn when a flood ravages Cordoba, killing fifty people. Carlos convinces the province's progressive governor to build a world-class dam, creating the largest man-made reservoir and protecting the citizens of Cordoba for generations to come. It is a once-in-lifetime opportunity, and Carlos throws himself, and his family, into it with a commitment some would consider inspired, others reckless. Cordoba's conservative society, led by influential religious leader Bishop Clara, opposes the project and the liberal governor. But politics and religion are not Carlos's only obstacles to completing his ambitious dam. Unbearable hours and Spartan living conditions drive his wife Eduarda and their son Lito to question the sacrifices they are making for Carlos. And, as the months roll on, they are beset upon at every turn by every kind of hurdle imaginable—from storms to political opposition to cholera. The story charts Carlos's grand vision as it turns potentially tragic for all involved. As challenges mount, Carlos grows increasingly certain of his work. Whether driven by genius, moral imperative, or ego, Carlos's quest is a troubling one, riddled with questions of what constitutes courage and what defines an obsession.