In a remote village in Ukraine, amidst the political turmoil of the 1930s, the lives of the peasants are marked by an internal struggle between the desire for modernization and agricultural tradition. The story follows a young couple, Mikhail and Anna, who dream of a better future and long to break free from the harsh daily routine. Mikhail, filled with enthusiasm, seeks to join a collectivist movement that promises to improve living conditions, while Anna, more cautious, fears that change will bring the loss of their roots.
As the community faces the onslaught of modernization, tensions arise among the neighbors. Some support collectivism, while others cling to the life they know, leading to emotional divisions. The village leader, a fervent defender of the new order, and an elderly traditionalist become the main antagonists, symbolizing the two conflicting worlds.
The narrative becomes a profound reflection on the struggle for identity, community, and love in times of crisis. As Mikhail and Anna's decisions impact not only their lives but also those of their fellow villagers, questions arise about sacrifice and the cost of progress. In an emotional climax, the couple must decide between following their love at all costs or succumbing to external pressures that threaten to tear apart both their relationship and their village.