The action of the film begins in the 1970s – even then, the young protagonist knows that adrenaline tastes better than powdered milk. Over time, he also discovers a desire for money, power, and being above the law. A transformation begins, and his gangster talent blossoms. Together with a friend, they build their own army.

Polish WWII resistance fighter Witold Pilecki infiltrates Auschwitz, is imprisoned and interrogated by communist officials post-war, depicting his wartime experiences, incarceration, torture, and 1948 execution for opposing Soviet regime.