Parents are not Chosen

The narrative follows Nikolai Burlakov, who grows up with his grandmother while his mother repeatedly breaks her promises to bring him to her. As he navigates his early life and first love, Masha, he finds himself facing the complexities of loyalty and familial bonds.

After fulfilling his military service, Nikolai heads north to work on an oil rig, only to discover troubling news about his family. The story deepens as he retrieves his sister from an orphanage, leading to a poignant reunion with Masha, who also returns to the village after a personal tragedy. This film captures the struggles and emotional ties that shape the characters’ lives in a dramatic setting.