[2] The film chronicles the devastation of Ukraine during World War II and the efforts of its liberation and rebuilding by the Soviet people and military.

[3] The plot focuses on the events of autumn 1943 on the southern fronts of the German-Soviet war, showcasing both the immense destruction inflicted by the Nazi invasion and the resilience of the Soviet forces and civilians.

The film opens with scenes of Nazi forces bombing Ukrainian towns, villages, and cities, juxtaposed with pre-war images of Ukraine's cultural and industrial vibrancy, including coal mining in the Donbas, steel production, and wheat harvests.

As the Red Army advances, the documentary captures key moments, including the liberation of cities like Kharkiv and Kyiv, the resilience of partisans led by Sidor Kovpak, and collective efforts to rebuild homes and communities.

It also features a huge number of philosophical generalizations written by O. Dovzhenko in the form of lyrical reflections, voiced by Leonid Khmara.