The film explores the history of the giant "Mir" open-pit mine, the lives of people living on its edge, and its possible future. These people seem to have become participants in a grand experiment, having created their own unique world apart from the rest of society, proving that humans can adapt to the most incredible conditions for survival.

In a lost village so isolated that it is not on the map of Russia, Sysoi passes on the tradition of Byzantine singing to his son Ivan. Their reclusive family life is filled with self-sustainment and a rigorous spiritual practice that seems to be dedicated to preparing the teenager for the only path in life.