Karelia in the 12th century. The feud between Kalervo and Untamo leads to the massacre of an entire village. The only survivor is Kalervo's son Kullervo, whom Untamo decides to raise as his own. As he grows up, Kullervo's brute strength and rebellious nature make him dangerous, and the villagers want to get rid of him for good. Kullervo spends his entire life searching for a purpose for his existence and skills. When the events of the past are revealed to him, his fate is clear. The path of revenge leads Kullervo to confront Untamo and force him to account for his sins.