1979, a political coup within his Ba'ath party charts the beginning of Saddam Hussein's turbulent rule over Iraq. Detractors of the new regime face a harsh punishment and Saddam's dominant mother passes away.

1988, as Baghdad celebrates victory in the war with Iran, Kuwait's upsurge in oil output challenges future Iraqi prosperity. Tension grows within the household due to the erratic behaviour of son Uday and a frosty relationship between the dictator and partner Sajida.

May 1995, Iraq is crippled by sanctions after refusing to comply with inspections. Feeling betrayed following the appointment of second son Uday as the dictator's successor, Hussein Kamel gives UN officials information on the location of the country's hidden weapons.

The invasion of Iraq forces Saddam to go into hiding near the town of Tikrit, while his daughters, grandchildren and wife flee to Syria. Uday, Qusay and eldest grandson Mustapha take refuge in Baghdad, and the net begins to close in on Saddam's secluded hiding place.