The film takes place in the middle of the 19th century, during the
Caucasian War. In 1839, Imam Shamil transferred his son Jamalutdin to the
Russian Empire as an amanat or hostage. At the age of nine, the boy became a pupil of the imperial court of Nicholas I, enlisted in the army and became a lieutenant. The passionate Caucasian young man fell in love with General Olenin's daughter Elisabeth Olenina at first sight and intended to marry her. However, the blood father confused his plans, exchanging his son for the captive granddaughters of Georgian King George XII, and returned him to his father's house. Jamalutdin has to make a difficult choice between his duty to his people and honor, as well as his love and feelings for Lisa Olenina. == Cast ==