The story, set in the 19th century, revolves around the hot-blooded Jussi, a young farmer, and his friend Antti and their brushes with the local nimismies (sheriff) and the häjyt (badmen). The film, shot on location on the plains of Ostrobothnia, conveys a good sense of its unique landscape. Both Järviluoma and the director, Jalmari Lahdensuo were from Ostrobothnia and the film suc­cessfully expresses a feeling of the true spirit of the province.

In the rural landscape of southern Häme, the lost will of the recently deceased Ojala is being sought. In its absence, Olli, the master's nephew, takes possession of the house. The devious Olli tries to win over Anna, the daughter of the Roinila family, who is fond of Mauno, the farmhand.

In 1850s Southern Ostrobothnia, the new county police chief angers the peasants with his arrogance, dishonesty and violent methods. Jussi, a young farmer, dares to stand up to the police chief. His courage makes on impression on the maidservant Liisa.