Uncredited are the original novel by Harald Bergstedt, and the cues written by Ilf and Petrov (with the additional contribution of Sigizmund Krzhizhanovsky).

The film tells the story of a cunning thief impersonating a saint during a rigged religious festival, causing chaos among the clergy and authorities while plotting his escape with stolen wealth and newfound allies.

The story takes place in a fictional European country on the eve of the religious festival of Saint Jorgen, the highlight of which is the selection of his "bride" who receives a significant monetary prize.

To attract more parishioners, the bishop employs modern technology, commissioning a film titled The Life and Miracles of Saint Jorgen.

Asked to perform a miracle, he notices Schultz, "heals" him, and then forgives everyone’s sins free of charge.

In the final scene, the bishop introduces a new saint, Franz, unveiling an icon depicting Schultz holding a crutch.