Exxon's elite team of scientists discover the greenhouse effect, but when they report their findings, the company's bosses are less than thrilled. Exxon slashes research funding, but NASA scientist James Hansen's testimony to Congress reveals the truth, and Exxon realizes they are facing a life-or-death crisis.

The Exxon Valdez oil tanker crashes into an iceberg, spilling millions of gallons of oil and creating a second PR problem for Exxon. In response, Exxon leads a secret alliance of American business leaders who set out to discredit the science, confuse the global warming conversation and remake American politics. Al Gore and James Hansen are in the path of Exxon's war machine.

Investigative journalists discover proof of "black ops" while the U.S. government tries to hold Exxon accountable. But they seem to be above the law. Activists and politicians try a bold David-vs-Goliath move, but in the end only an unexpected underdog will stand a chance of stopping the giant.