In ruined Berlin, several bands of abandoned children roam the streets, engaging in petty crimes.

When a circus arrives nearby, the boys are charmed by one trapeze performer called Corona.

They are upset when the circus' manager insults her, and plan revenge by setting a trap on the ring.

The scriptwriters were inspired by a real children's circus, Rose, that was a popular attraction in the city of Pößneck during the first post-war years.

"[4] Author Peter Pleyer regarded it as a classical "Rubble film", that "tried to provide some optimism".