The brutal rituals of Dedovshchina, a major problem within Russian society, is shown not as a tragedy, but as an idyllically insane process of resocialization.

Several stars of Soviet cinema cast in the roles of senior officers; prominent theater director Sergey Artsybashev portrayed the iconic protagonist Dikiy Prapor ("Wild Warrant Officer") The film's popularity prompted the producers to create four sequels (DMB-2, DMB-3, DMB-4 and DMB-5), but with limited reception.

Vladislav Kashirsky, a university student expelled for a scandalous affair with the dean's wife; Anatoly Pestemev, a factory worker escaping charges after accidentally causing a fire; and Gena Bobkov, a gambler evading creditors, find themselves at the army’s induction center among an eclectic group of recruits.

The story, narrated by Gena, portrays conscription practices and the motley assortment of young men who are often reluctantly swept into service.

The film concludes with a darkly humorous swearing-in ceremony, with Gena reflecting on the resilience required to endure military life.