The story revolves around a man who was once a woman. During the Stalin era, this man underwent a bizarre experiment that transformed him into a man. The aim of this experiment was to create a stronger work force/army, among other things.
The main character, now known as a man, struggles to fit into a world he doesn't understand. He is forced to confront his new identity and the societal norms that have been set in place for him. He finds himself drawn into larger schemes and adventures, much like Forrest Gump.
The main character also encounters various significant figures in his life, including an ex-boyfriend from his past, as well as a mysterious nurse with whom he might have fallen in love after the operation. Despite these encounters, he remains trapped within the role of an important Soviet married man.
In the end, the main character makes a huge sacrifice for his country, unwillingly. The movie then ends on a possibly happy note, yet still leaves a profound sense of depressing sadness.
