The late 1930s in the Soviet Union: Young Kostja from Moscow comes into possession of a Colt. One night, he accidentally sees Colonel Tulajew from the Central Committee, who is partly responsible for mass deportations and political purges. A shot is fired, and Tulajew dies. Kostja runs away through the snow and escapes. This act sets off an avalanche of unprecedented proportions. The Central Committee uses the murder to get rid of unwanted officials, party members, and comrades. A whirlpool of fear and paranoia ensues.