The film is based on a true story about HIV-contaminated blood products in Germany in the 1980s. The brothers Ralf, Stefan and Thomas are hemophiliacs and live in constant fear of injury. When a new type of coagulant comes onto the market, they seem to be able to lead a normal life. It soon becomes apparent that a disproportionate number of hemophiliacs are contracting HIV, but the Federal Health Office remains inactive. Stefan is the first to die, but he is only diagnosed with pneumonia. While Ralf does not want to accept this, his brother Thomas refuses to accept it, as he is afraid of his family being ostracized by society if his HIV disease becomes public. This leads to a bitter argument between the brothers.