In 1970s Soviet Union, a group of garage cooperative members confront corruption, favoritism, and moral dilemmas in a tense, locked-room meeting that spirals into an unexpected battle of ethics and power.

She reveals inconsistencies in the selection process, highlighting favoritism and corruption; some slots had secretly gone to influential figures such as a market director and the son of a high-ranking official.

Finally, after several failed attempts to reach a resolution, including a suggestion to draw lots, the assembly is interrupted by Anikeeva's husband, who announces their car has been stolen, disqualifying her from membership.

In a closing twist, the final spot is decided by lot, only to reveal that one of the committee members slept through the entire meeting and missed his turn, providing a moment of irony as the chaotic gathering draws to an end.

As in all his movies, Eldar Ryazanov acted in a minor role: he played the head of the insect department who overslept the whole meeting and drew the unfortunate lot at the end of the film.