Set during the Revolution of 1905 against Tsarist Russia, the film focuses on a working-class mother. Her husband is part of the right-wing Black Hundreds movement, and her son Pavel is a revolutionary socialist. The mother herself is, at the start, essentially apolitical and just wants to keep her family out of trouble. But then, she witnesses Pavel's treatment at the hands of the Tsarist authorities and becomes radicalized.
This film has the examples of:
- Black-and-White Morality: The right-wing husband is a violent and lazy drunk. The left-wing son is a heroic and idealistic revolutionary. 1920s Soviet cinema was not known for its subtlety.
- Domestic Abuse: In an early scene, the mother is nearly beaten by her husband, but Pavel intercedes.
- Foregone Conclusion: The Revolution of 1905 failed, so you know the film's rebellion is not going to work out.
- Kangaroo Court: Pavel's trial is clearly a farce, with the judges hardly even paying attention to the proceedings.
- Loose Floorboard Hiding Spot: Used by Pavel to hide some weapons for the rebels.
- No Name Given: In the novel, the mother is named Pelageya Nilovna Vlasova, but she has no name in the film. Additionally, her husband is only ever referred to by the family's last name, Vlasov.
