The film takes place in the Soviet Union during the early 1960s, a period when the nation publicly projected an image of prosperity while many citizens struggled with hunger. Even those dedicated to the Communist party faced hardship as prices rose without corresponding wage increases. This situation ultimately leads some factory workers in a small town to strike, and they further escalate events by entering the local party headquarters, where they are shocked to find officials enjoying luxuries like cognac and Hungarian sausage. These developments deeply disturb “Lyudmila” (played by Yulia Vysotskaya), a staunch supporter of the regime who is appalled by the military’s response. Her distress intensifies when her young daughter disappears. Despite the town being placed under lockdown, she retains some freedom of movement and embarks on a frantic search for her child, confronting the overwhelming power of a state unwilling to tolerate any opposition. The film serves as a sharp criticism of oppressive regimes that rely on propaganda to maintain control and are willing to use violence to enforce their authority; it’s less an attack on Communism itself and more a condemnation of authoritarianism in general. It prompts viewers—and “Lyudmila”—to reflect on the dangers of unchecked power, fear, and vengeance. Through documentary-style cinematography, director Andrey Konchalovskiy shares his perspective on the Soviet state, but that message resonates with any dictatorship. Vysotskaya delivers a compelling performance as a woman whose life is thrown into turmoil, her beliefs questioned, and her priorities drastically altered. The film suggests some stains are too deep to simply wash away; sometimes you need to completely rebuild what’s been damaged.

Source on TMDB