Based on the play of the same name by Leonid Zorin. Gordei Kabachkov, a professional con man, decided to pursue a career in science and was very successful. Having settled in a certain Institute of Ancient Culture, he easily wraps his finger around the numerous «kind men» – members of the academic council – and defends his thesis. Using his «talents» and the kindness of the staff of the Institute of Ancient Culture, Kabachkov makes a rapid take-off on the career ladder…