[3] The initial four episodes of the film delve into the formative years and early experiences of the main characters, shedding light on their upbringing and the pivotal role they played in the fight for the establishment of Soviet power in the rural regions of Siberia.
The movie encompasses a comprehensive portrayal of the pre-revolutionary era, capturing the essence of the socio-political landscape and the tumultuous events that set the stage for the onset of the Russian Civil War.
The fifth to the eighth episodes delve into the arduous journey of collective farmers as they strive to build a better life in their village, guided by the unwavering leadership of Bolsheviks Polycarp Kruzhilin and Pankrat Nazarov.
The dramatic tale of Ivan Savelyev unfolds as he initially aligns himself with the White Bandits, engages in a forbidden affair with Anna, endures a period of incarceration, and ultimately finds his way back to his homeland.
In addition to portraying the initial days of the Great Patriotic War, the first season delves into the experiences of Semyon Savelyev and Kiryan Inyutin as they bravely venture to the front lines.
The eleventh and twelfth episodes of this gripping tale delve into the dramatic events that unfolded during the initial months of the Great Patriotic War, chronicling the relentless fight against the encroaching Nazi invaders near Moscow.
From the youngest to the oldest, individuals of all ages and walks of life unite in solidarity, ceaselessly toiling towards a shared goal – ensuring the triumph of their beloved homeland.
Demyan goes to Mikhail Lukich Kaftanov, a wealthy man in the village, offering to protect his valuable possessions, suggesting that having a vigilant and watchful "chain dog" would greatly assist in overseeing and safeguarding all aspects of the landowner's property.
Unfortunately, the situation takes a turn for the worse as Lakhnovsky manages to successfully manipulate Pyotr Polipov, a bright and promising young man who is currently enrolled in the prestigious gymnasium, into betraying his own comrades.
In the city, Anton Savelyev, who has successfully managed to flee from the clutches of penal servitude (called in Russian katorga), marries a woman named Liza.
In the midst of a heated exchange between a son and his father, an unexpected visitor by the name of Anton, notorious for repeatedly fleeing from prison, suddenly appears at the zaimka.
Kaftanov arrives in the village with news of the Tsar's abdication, becoming the bearer of a revolution in Russia that he believes will not reach their remote location in the wilderness for some time.
At the same time, Subbotin, unexpectedly showing compassion, promises to take care of Anton's wife, who has developed a mental illness while in prison, and their young son.
The collective farmers excitedly gather at the local club to watch the film, where they are amazed to see Anton Savelyev, one of their own, highlighted as a successful leader in a tractor factory.
The movie leaves a lasting impression on the villagers, emphasizing the importance of hard work and dedication in achieving success and making a positive impact on their lives and community.
As he prepares to depart from the comfort of his home, Pankrat, a close friend welcoming him at the gate, expresses his genuine relief that Fyodor is finally leaving behind the mundane surroundings of Mikhailovka.
With a firm grip, he intensifies control and shows no mercy in his efforts to eradicate any mismanagement within the collective farms, going as far as depleting even the essential seed funds.
Syomka Savelyev and Verka Inyutina are currently enjoying a blissful vacation along the tranquil river, completely oblivious to the harsh reality that war has already ravaged their beloved country.
Fyodor inquires of Anna whether Ivan has truly made his way back, and in an attempt to create an excuse for himself, claiming he desires a smoke, he endeavors to leave in order to meet with Anfisa.
Anfisa ironically suggests that Kiryan is capable of a more human-like love, and he calmly agrees, confessing that he helped Fyodor imprison Ivan and deliver the kolkhoz horses to the gypsies.
The second and third episodes of this season delve into the gripping events that unfold at the frontlines, shedding light on the courageous combat operations undertaken by the valiant Dedyukhin's tank crew stationed in the Kursk salient.
These episodes present a captivating narrative, not only showcasing the intense battles that transpire, but also allowing viewers to witness poignant moments of respite and the blossoming of love amidst the chaos and uncertainty of war.
The main characters' children have all pursued different careers as adults: Dmitry Savelyev is now a poet, Vasily Kruzhilin works as a newspaper editor, and Dasha Savelyeva, who is Ivan's daughter, has become a doctor.
Despite the valiant efforts of the firemen, the flames prove to be insurmountable, subsequently propagating towards the nearby warehouses that house an ample supply of ammunition, meticulously arranged and ready to be dispatched to the battlefront.
Tragically, it is during this chaotic ordeal that Anton Savelyev, the individual responsible for issuing the evacuation of the incendiary shells from the conflagrating warehouse, meets his untimely demise due to an unforeseen explosion.
Arnold Lakhnovsky is employed as a law enforcement officer, holding the distinguished position of SS lieutenant colonel, in a charming town situated in western Ukraine.
There arises a requirement to locate a trustworthy individual of Russian descent who possesses a flawlessly pristine image in the eyes of the Soviet authorities, while also ensuring that they do not raise even the slightest hint of suspicion.
Polycarp Matveyevich Kruzhilin assumes the role of a Party leader within a collective farm, where the esteemed position of chairman is held by none other than Ivan Silantievich Savelyev, a courageous individual who has recently returned from serving on the frontlines.
As he navigates through the complexities of this new era, Vasily begins to place greater trust and reliance on Pyotr's insights and perspectives, surpassing the influence and counsel he once sought from his own father and close friend, Ivan Savelyev.
The letter from Norway reveals a Russian tank sergeant who bears a striking resemblance to Semyon, who had fought alongside the Norwegian Resistance and died during a battle.