This is the story of a pilot who performed a heroic act, but instead of fame and recognition, he faced persecution from the state. Spartak Kotlyarovskiy took part in the bombing of the German capital in August 1941. But instead of being awarded the title of "Hero," he was given a criminal punishment. And now, like his namesake, the gladiator from Rome 2000 years ago, Spartak has only one way out - to rise up. Kotlyarovskiy organizes the largest rebellion of convicts in the history of the USSR and, against all odds, breaks free.