The film is set against the tumultuous backdrop of 1918 in St. Petersburg, Russia, during a period when the newly established government has declared a ruthless Red Terror. This grim campaign involves the systematic and merciless elimination of those branded as "counter-revolutionaries". In the midst of this chaos, we follow the story of Eugene Pavlovich Adamov, played by [Aleksey Batalov](../actor/aleksey-batalov), a distinguished general of the former royal army and a law professor at the Military Academy. His life takes a drastic turn when he is arrested and confined in a room that functions as a makeshift prison. This room is a grim place filled with a mix of individuals—royalist soldiers, officials, aristocrats, and ordinary criminals—each awaiting their fate.
Every day, prisoners—many trembling with fear—are taken from this terrifying space for what is called a "trial." The outcome is almost always deadly, with verdicts swiftly handed down to be executed by firing squad. Adamov, realistic and resigned, quietly awaits his own death, understanding the brutal nature of the regime. Yet, against all odds, a miraculous turn of events occurs: he is unexpectedly released. Interestingly, his release is based on his principled stance back in 1905, when he refused to accuse two sailors who disobeyed their captain's unlawful orders, a decision that the new government now regards as grounds for his freedom.
However, Adamov finds himself at a loss for where to go. His previously sprawling apartment has been confiscated and allocated to others long ago. With nowhere else to turn, he returns to the place of his confinement only to find himself forced into working as a launderer, scraping out a living amidst the chaos of war and upheaval. Despite his circumstances, Adamov's moral compass remains intact, and he is soon offered a role as an investigator in the new government.
As he begins to serve in this capacity, Adamov becomes involved in investigating the murders of members of the military confiscation unit, known as the "prodotryad". His work exposes the lawlessness sweeping through the city, revealing how the "reds" themselves are engaging in acts of violence and injustice. Determined to uphold justice, Adamov tries to prevent further violence and lawlessness, but his efforts are largely ignored. Innocent people are shot without any legal process, and the chaos continues to spiral out of control.
Ultimately, Adamov’s integrity leads him into peril; he is captured by the "whites". Desperately, he attempts to explain his motives for switching allegiances, believing that his actions are driven by a desire for justice and truth. However, his explanation fails to sway his captors—who see him as a traitor—and he faces a tragic end as an order is given for him to be executed. Throughout his journey, the film underscores themes of morality, loyalty, and the brutal realities of a nation caught in the grips of revolutionary chaos.
