Sean Bean returns as Richard Sharp, an officer in the 19th Century British Army in this made-for-TV drama based on the series of novels by Bernard Cornwell. After Wellingtons victory at Victoria, the British army prepares to storm France, but new soldiers are needed to fill out the depleted battalions. However, as Sharpe and Sgt. Major Harper (Daragh O Malley) spearhead a recruiting drive, they discover corrupt officers have infiltrated the highest levels of command, and when they try to bring the disloyal officers to justice, they find their lives are in jeopardy. In order to protect themselves and serve their King, Sharpe and Harper decide to fake their deaths and enlist in the army as foot soldiers. ~ Mark Deming, All Movie Guide