Sir Thomas More (Scofield), England's Roman Catholic Chancellor, is forced into a difficult position when corrupt King Henry VIII demands approval to divorce his wife and marry his mistress. Torn between his conscience and duty to the crown, Sir Thomas chooses to say nothing, sparking the rage of the king. What unfolds is a battle of wills packed with palace intrigue, political brinksmanship and the fate of man, church and country. In the end, his silence spoke loudest of all.