In the midst of World War II, a group of Soviet soldiers is tasked with defending a strategic building in Stalingrad from advancing Nazi forces. Among these soldiers is Captain Gromov, who leads his men with unwavering resolve despite limited resources and the ever-present danger. As the battle rages on, the soldiers form bonds with the civilians sheltering in the building, particularly with a young woman named Katya who represents the hope and resilience of the city. The brutal conflict outside the building's walls serves as a grim reminder of their precarious situation, but they remain determined to hold their ground and protect one another.

Parallel to this, a German officer named Peter Kahn is also fighting on the opposing side, haunted by his past and struggling with the orders he must follow. He encounters Masha, another civilian trapped in the crossfire, and their unexpected connection provides a glimpse of humanity amid relentless warfare. The lives of these characters intersect as both sides endure the heavy toll of combat, forging emotional ties that highlight the shared suffering and resolve of those caught in the clutches of war. The narrative captures the intense and often tragic reality of battle while exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and endurance.