A writer in 1930s Moscow has his work banned and is expelled from the official union, leaving him without income. He then writes a novel about a mysterious dark visitor and gradually starts confusing his real life with the story.

While a distinguished principal, Nina, dazzles the local TV crew with achievements that make her school the best in the entire district, outside the camera’s frame, young Maxim is coerced into participating in his peers' take on "proper socialization." These shattering school hall lessons continue to echo throughout society and beyond.