In a small German town in the early 20th century, a renowned physician, Dr. Rufus, finds himself trapped in a moral dilemma that calls into question his professional ethics and principles. While treating a young patient suffering from a terminal illness, Rufus learns that the only way to alleviate her suffering is through a drastic decision: euthanasia. As the girl's health deteriorates, the pressure mounts—not only from her suffering but also from the opposition of the community and the medical norms of the time.
At the same time, Rufus faces disapproval from his wife, who firmly believes in life at all costs, and from his mentor, a traditional doctor who views death as a failure. Rufus's internal struggle intensifies as he begins to develop an emotional connection with the young girl, leading him to question his own role as a healer.
As the conflict escalates, friends, colleagues, and family members become embroiled in the moral storm unleashed by his decision. The film captures the emotional tension in a context where the physician's choices not only affect his patient but also have profound repercussions on his own life and the community. In the end, Rufus confronts the fundamental question: how far is a doctor willing to go in the name of compassion? The film, through its intricate relationships and ethical dilemmas, offers a provocative glimpse into the complexity of duty and morality.