In the southern district of Šiauliai, a few years after the restoration of the country's independence, lives a brave 17-year-old boy, Rimants. He is more interested in rugby, new bands and illegal market trading with his friend Minde than in his studies. Rimants is convinced that physical strength and money are the key to success in a changing, competitive society. But when he meets and falls in love with the beautiful, middle-class Monica, Rimants is introduced to a new world of literature, culture and alternative opportunities.