Alexander (Erland Josephson) is celebrating his birthday with family and friends when they receive some stunning news from the radio. World War III has erupted, and the end of the world is near. In order to avert the apocalypse, Alexander makes a bargain with God: He’ll give up everything he values in life, including his beautiful home and beloved son (Tommy Kjellqvist). So, when Alexander awakens from this episode, as if from a dream, he sets about doing just that.