An analysis of people's attitudes in the face of the tragedy suffered by a hiding Jew, the film poses the question whether when in mortal danger one is allowed to focus on their own safety and the safety of their close ones, or should rather help a stranger who will otherwise be doomed. Due to the significance of the message it delivered, the film was shelved longer than any other Polish big screen production.
In 1943, a town in Eastern Poland endures the terror of Nazi occupation. In one of the tenement houses, a locksmith named Korsak is secretly hiding a Jew. The Germans declare a state of emergency and forbid all inhabitants of the town to leave their place of residence. Korsak's neighbours unexpectedly discover his secret. They fear that if the Germans become aware of it all of them will be executed. The fear brings out the worst emotions in them, with instinct telling them to take care only of themselves and their families. A test of characters begins, as prejudice and hostility emerge. The internal conflict takes the biggest toll on Marta, a young girl who believes in values and is just entering the adult world. Eventually, Korsak and the Jew leave the house. Upon disappearance of the treat, the relations between the neighbours return to normal. Marta loses faith in kindliness of her close ones.
The film is based on a novel by Wiesław Rogowski.
