Plot Summary

Lions for Lambs weaves together intersecting stories that span classrooms, battlefields, and the halls of political power. Arian and Ernest, two students at West Coast University portrayed by Derek Luke and Michael Peña, are inspired by their idealistic professor Dr. Stephen Malley, played by Robert Redford. Motivated by a desire to give meaning to their lives and make a real difference, they choose to enlist and head to the war in Afghanistan. Once deployed, the young men are quickly confronted with the harsh realities of combat, where ideals clash with fear, sacrifice, and the struggle to survive.

Meanwhile in Washington, ambitious senator Jasper Irving, portrayed by Tom Cruise, is in the midst of a high-stakes political maneuver. Preparing to announce a bold new strategy regarding the war in Afghanistan, Irving seeks to shape public opinion and secure his future by revealing explosive plans through veteran television journalist Janine Roth, played by Meryl Streep. As she listens skeptically, Roth is forced to weigh her professional responsibility against the consequences of broadcasting a narrative that could alter lives on the battlefield.

As accusations, memories, and gunfire intertwine, these parallel stories gradually converge, revealing how personal choices, political ambition, and moral responsibility are deeply connected. Lions for Lambs presents a thought-provoking examination of war, leadership, and accountability, questioning how decisions made far from the front lines can profoundly shape the fate of those sent to fight.