The film takes place during a time of famine. Norway has been at war with England and Sweden, and times are tough. Gjest Baardsen has gotten into trouble with the law, apparently over a trivial matter. But Gjest breaks free, and instead it is the sheriff who is locked up in handcuffs. And Gjest continues to flee, with sheriffs and good people in tow.

An interesting look into 1931, a year of unemployment and misery in the forests of Norway. The movie is important as both film history and social portrayal. We get insight into working conditions class differences between loggers and forest owners. Based on the events of the Julussa conflict the movie depicts early labour organization, unity and strike.

Describes the origin and development of the trade union movement.