On their advance on the Soviet front, the Germans stay primarily on the main roads because of the large number of Soviet guerrillas staked out in remote areas ready to attack. Vladimir leads one such group of guerrillas, who are based in an underground bunker in the forest, and who as a collective span demographics: young/old, males/females. Their primary goal is to hinder the German advance in any way possible, which includes killing Germans, and gathering and providing intel to Soviet troops. Into their midst comes renowned ballerina Nina, who was on her way to entertain Soviet troops, but who got separated from her entourage. Her presence causes some issue among the guerrillas: some of the men, especially young Mitya, are enthralled with her as a woman, but everyone realizes that she has no skills with which to help them - including not being able to do any of the domestic duties in the bunker - and as such should leave as soon as possible, but as time progresses, Nina herself begins to have strong feelings for what she can accomplish as a guerrilla, especially as she has fallen in love with Vladimir, and he with her. The question becomes whether Vladimir and Nina's relationship compromises the effectiveness of the group, especially in Vladimir's decision making when it involves Nina.
—Huggo