Based upon writer Maxim Gorky’s autobiography, a 12-year-old’s journey in life is set against the fierce backdrop of 19th century Russia. Growing up under the czarist regime, the young author is drawn to his warm-hearted grandmother, who instils in him the willingness to pursue his writing muse.

Depicting the early life of Soviet writer Maxim Gorky, this is the first entry in a trilogy of films made about the celebrated author. Structured episodically and shot both in studio and on location, the film is a powerful look at 19th century Russia through the eyes of a soon-to-be-famous child.