La Scorta is an Italian political thriller directed by Ricky Tognazzi. Asceticism, or the sacrifice of one's personal inclinations for some higher cause, has played a part in all religious traditions. It may have a modern incarnation in the role of bodyguard. When a prosecutor is assassinated in Sicily, a new magistrate is called upon to continue his Mafia investigation. Four bodyguards are assigned to protect this crusading judge. These young men must renounce all personal pleasures and be willing to lay down their lives for the magistrate. When one of their number is killed in a car bomb explosion, the others' commitment and vigilance intensify. These bodyguards are modern day ascetics whose lives are built on the ideals of service and sacrifice.