In several unrelated stories, the consequences of putting one's foot down – or failing to do so – are explored.

Six women get fired from a bank while the director gets a huge raise.

Shortly after police discovers the murder of three friends, police inspector Wallander finds his friend and colleague Svedberg dead. First, it is believed that Svedberg killed himself but Wallander soon discovers links between Svedberg, the three friends and a fourth person, a young woman in a mental hospital.