In a small Swedish village, a group of women finds themselves trapped in the routine of daily life while their husbands are in the army, fighting in a distant war. As the war progresses, the community feels increasingly isolated, and the women must take charge of everything from the farm to household responsibilities. The film follows the lives of several of these women, each with their own dreams and struggles, but united by their desire to survive and face adversity.
The story particularly centers on the life of Karin, a young woman who feels frustrated by the lack of options and the oppression she experiences in her life. Her yearning for freedom leads her into complicated relationships with other men in the village, challenging social norms and her own insecurities. As time goes on, tensions rise, and the women begin to experience changes in their dynamics, supporting each other in the pursuit of their own identities.
The film explores deep themes such as female strength, the struggle for independence, and the desire to find purpose amid adversity. With a focus on the emotions and realities of the lives of women during that era, the story becomes a powerful portrait of resilience and hope, despite difficult circumstances. In the end, each of the protagonists must confront their own choices and the complexities of love and loss in times of war.