To remedy the issue, ambassadors from the United States and Soviet Union attempt to win the General's favor.

Otto, an adviser to the General, fears that their small nation will be invaded should they continue to abstain from voting.

They follow this up by putting together a volunteer army out of patriotic civilians, complete with fake air raids and chaotic, nonsensical military exercises.

The General presides over a celebration of Concordia's history with the American and Soviet ambassadors and their wives in attendance.

The General pretends to order a firing squad on the parents, only to reveal that Concordia has never made nor purchased ammunition.

Ustinov was nominated for the Golden Bear at the 11th Berlin International Film Festival[2] and the Directors Guild of America Award for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Motion Pictures.