Small-town boys Vähy and Hapa are best friends who swear an eternal blood oath. As they grow up, however, their paths drift apart and they both find themselves searching for their place in the world.

The reception for Finland's Independence Day is rudely interrupted when the presidential palace is attacked and the state leadership is taken hostage. Max Tanner of the Security Police is appointed as a negotiator in the hostage crisis, that unfolds as part of a bigger plan to undermine European security.

Tiina, who works at a hamburger bar, responds to a newspaper ad placed by a middle-aged man. She agrees to become the object of the florist's passions in exchange for money. When Pera, a man of the same age, enters Tiina's life, the situation becomes complicated.

The Päätalo film tells the story of Kalle Päätalo, a carpenter and master builder, and his burning desire to become a writer, as well as the long road that led to the creation of Päätalo's first novel. Too much hard work, too little love in his marriage, and too little self-confidence prevent Kalle Päätalo from realizing his lifelong dream of becoming a writer. Until he finds new love.

Two young lovers, Anna and Martti, are split apart but are reunited many years later when their lives have changed considerably. Anna is a war widow; Martti a writer, is married, and has five children.