When Dr William Melon arrives at Walla Walla State Penitentiary, he knows that his work as a psychiatrist will not be easy. Faced with dangerous inmates and a wholly unsupportive prison warden, Melon desperately hopes to achieve something positive. When an opportunity presents itself, in the form of the notorious Eddie Dooley, Melon takes it. Over the course of numerous sessions, Melon tries to uncover the reasons for Eddie's brutally violent behaviour. However, in doing so, he uncovers a past so horrifying, that it is difficult to comprehend. By attempting to reveal Eddie's secrets, Melon is unleashing a dangerous beast. He is continuously poking lions, but does not seem prepared for what will happen when they wake up.