Set in the 1980s during the period of Russia's "perestroika" and "glasnost", Aphghanistan is in the middle of a war, which is claiming the lives of hundreds of young men. However, this tragedy is far removed from the life of 18-year old Denis, who is celebrating his recent entry into University to study film. One night Denis meets a mysterious stranger with whom he falls in love. Elizabeth Tenetskaya is a famous film director, talented and ambitious but, as Denis soon finds out, older than himself and married. With his love unrequited, Denis sinks into deep despair. Dropping out of University, he decides to go to Afghanistan and ironically, it is this war-torn country which is the making of him. Twenty years later, Denis, a well-respected journalist, cannot forget his first love, however, the destiny is about to intervene and bring him and Elizabeth together again.