Martia, an experienced shepherd together with others is moving his herd to the winter pastures. The life of the shepherds is mundane and complex to the extent that even a minor mistake is fraught with serious consequences. Martia’s older son forsakes the herd for good and moves to the city in quest of easy money. In his attempt to save the herd scattered by the storm, Martia dies. Martia’s son, who returns home from the city blames himself for the accident and is profoundly repentant.
This touching comedy follows a poor soldier who is mistaken for Jesus Christ in a poor village. The film tells the story of a quick-witted and resourceful soldier who uses this misidentification to outsmart rich merchants, the mayor, and finally Father Ambrose, the local priest, who is known for being a glutton and womaniser.
Soviet Georgian film by Eldar Shengelaia. Based on short story by D. Kldiashvili
