The movie is based on the novel by A.I. Gertsen of the same name. The action takes place in the first half of XIX century. The famous actor Shchepin came to prince Skalinsky’s theatre to perform in the play «Magpie, the Thief» and got acquainted with a talented bonded actress Aneta. Her destiny was tragic. According to the last will of her former master she should have got a manumission but was sold to prince Skalinsky who solicited her love. Aneta’s sweetheart Stepan had to become a recruit and her child was to be born a serf. Shchepin wanted to help her but it was too late. She committed suicide. Source : www.mosfilm.ru
