The drama portrays the couple’s personal and professional lives against the backdrop of Stalinist Russia, as well as the creation of some of the most iconic films of the Soviet era, such as Jolly Fellows, Circus, and Volga-Volga.
Orlova’s first major role in Jolly Fellows causes tension on set, as she and Alexandrov face romantic jealousy, political conspiracies, and sabotage by their colleagues.
In one episode, the couple secretly marries in a church, and later, Orlova faces intense scrutiny and accusations of complicity with the state.
Personal betrayals, including Orlova’s miscarriage and suspicions of an affair between Alexandrov and his assistant, add to the drama.
By the final episodes, Orlova and Alexandrov, having experienced career and personal setbacks, continue to work together, with their relationship enduring under Stalin's regime.